Wolverhampton West Magazine

May 2017

Win a fabulous Hair Makeover at award-winning salon Royston Blythe Win a 3 course meal for two at The Cowshed Win tickets to see The Woman in Black at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Win tickets for West Midlands Safari & Leisure Park

May 2017

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wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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Contents May Edition The local property market by Nick Berriman Fantasy becomes fact Grand Theatre: La Cage aux Folles Carvers Celebrate 50 Years’ Service West Midlands Safari Park competition Crosswords and puzzles Lashings of Lichfield Recipe of the month BJ’s charity goes from strength to strength Alfresco Living – Enjoy your outside space this summer Grand Theatre competition Award-winning gardens on our doorstep The Magic Garden ‘Spectrum’ and ‘Spectacle’ Rotary Club of Wolverhampton Paycare giving back to the community Gardening with Ann Winwood Cancer research UK: Race For Life

10 14 16 18 20 22 24/25 28 30 34 38 44 44 46 50 54 60/61

Advertising enquiries Email: sales@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Gisella Wiley (Sales Director) Editorial/What’s On information Email: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Geoff Hall (Editor) Magazine Design Studio 28 Design & Print (www.s28.co.uk) Wolverhampton West Magazine Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Spring lunch raises over £4000 for children’s charity 62 Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events 64 66/67 Hugh Porter: Life Cycle Love your independent retailers 68 Promise Dreams: Walk the walk 70 72/73 Win a ‘Hair Makeover’ with Royston Blythe Kinver Country Fayre 75 82 Win a meal for 2 at The Cowshed The Oakley Arms food review 84/85 Sir Jack’s food review 88/89 96/97 Stunning summer style at Royston Blythe Summer beauty essentials 100 Women’s Fashion: Summer dressing 104/105 Mind Babble: Mind your weight 108 112/113 Meet the boss 116 Tettenhall College Garden Party Tettenhall Village Fete 116 Tom’s Tip 121 Redevelopment work to start at historic Wolverhampton school 130 Golf Tip 139 Golf rules ok 144/145 Social scene 150/155 The Restoration Man 156/157 Motoring: Exploding myths with C4 158 Index to advertisers 161 Mercedes-Benz reveals new E-Class Coupé 162

Congratulations to: Winner of Sunny Afternoon competition at The Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Mr. Peter Baker, Wightwick Winner of the meal for 2 competition at The Mount Hotel Mr. Barrie Tykiff, Compton

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

*Total distribution 25,000 copies across 2 months

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from the editor Nothing in life is certain. After calling for a snap general election in June our PM Theresa May needs to be especially mindful of this, because with tricky Brexit negotiations now knocking on the door, who knows which way the country will vote – especially when times are tight. And with the new tax year just getting started, things soon promise to be tighter than a pair of hot pants in a pop music video, but don’t worry here’s some good news: it’s competition time and this month we have more prizes than Bruce Forsyth on the Price is Right. It’s been seven years since we started this magazine and to celebrate we’re giving you the chance to win tickets to see The Woman in Black at the Grand Theatre; tickets for West Midlands Safari Park; a 3-course meal and selected bottle of house wine from The Cowshed in Pattingham and a hair makeover from Royston Blythe, to include colour, cut and Rapture Hair extensions. Like us the current Midland Hairdresser of The Year has much to celebrate right now, as both its Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury salons have just won the prestigious L’oreal Colour Trophy 2017 in their respective regions and will be heading to London on 5th June for the grand final. Royston himself must be tickled pink. Success is no accident, of course. Like my old Nan used to say, ‘learn the value of hard work by working hard.’ It fills me with an enormous amount of pride to see Wolverhampton West reach its latest landmark, especially considering it has done so against a wider backdrop of declining print media. We’re a happy bunch here at WW HQ: there’s yours truly, my partner, Sales Director Gisella Wiley; our graphic designer, Ed Wilde from Studio 28; Social Pages snapper, Nigel Gooding from Crescent Imaging; staff writer, fashion and beauty correspondent, Helen 04

Taylor; feature writers John Nash and Rob Taylor; Accounting guru, Jonathon and, of course, our dedicated delivery team, who keep fresh editions flowing every month. But who we really have to thank – for our longevity and ongoing success – are our loyal advertisers and avid readers, who this month have the following forthcoming features: David and Emily Smith’s personal involvement in this year’s Race for Life; local sporting legend in our midst, Hugh Porter; car enthusiast and 3 Pines Builders’ MD Alan Bradshaw; our popular Meet the Boss staple, this time it’s Olha Lac and Tracey Taylor from Taylor Biddle Opticians, plus a piece on historic Lichfield. It’s walking weather outside right now so be sure to put your Best Foot Forward for your chosen charity at the Rotary Club’s unique fundraising initiative at Aldersley Stadium; Walk for Dreams in support of children’s charity Promise Dreams and take things to the max at Compton Hospice’s Colour Blast event, which brings a whole new meaning to showing the colour of your money. Or go really big by entering the Carver Wolverhampton Marathon. Still not fit enough? Then check out WV Active - the new name for Wolverhampton’s Leisure Centres - South Staffordshire leisure centres, Chris Jewkes Fitness and the Cambridge Weight Loss Plan. We also have articles on well being from Mind Babble, teeth implants, news from Nuffield Health, opticians and chiropody. Now enough fitness and health: it’s time to undo all your good

work, courtesy of our 14-page Eating Out guide. Inside you’ll be salivating over food reviews at The Oakley Arms in Brewood, Sir Jack’s Restaurant in Molineux and will find much inspiration for the forthcoming lazy Bank Holiday days. Top of the list has to be Shrewsbury Arms in Albrighton and Halfpenny Green Vineyard’s Food and Wine festival. Tasty stuff. Failing that, drop in on Enjoy Wolverhampton – the dedicated website with all the up-to-the-minute city news. Further to this there are all the usual suspects too: everything for your home – including the kitchen sink – which includes building extensions, Orangeries, fireplaces and furniture to kitchens, bathrooms, windows and blinds. There are also six social pages, 12 pages of golf, an in-depth look at the new Mercedes E-class coupe; fashion and beauty – with advice from Cosmetique – cutting edge hair trends from Royston Blythe, as well as articles on law from FBC Manby Bowdler; tax management from Midland Independent Financial Services and education. And, as a parting shot, hear this: it’s Father’s Day soon and since we all know that Dad’s love nothing more than the latest tech, look up Acoustic Boutique in Shrewsbury for a perfect match this 18th June. It’s certainly a better idea than socks, I’m sure. See you in July…

Geoff

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The local

property market by Nick Berriman

It’s very confusing. In the last edition of this splendid magazine I bemoaned our lack of new instructions which was a national trend. As I write this I have beside me the latest edition of the Express and Star in which we have a double page spread of advertisements ranging in price from £1,150,000 to £160,000 and the most significant factor is that of the 34 adverts 31 were first adverts. No longer should I worry about a lack of instructions but in my morning paper the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors reports that house sales in the West Midlands have remained stagnant and that there is a lack of properties coming on the market! So how do we explain these contradictions? Perhaps it is because the property market is very fickle and is subject to local conditions. I would like to think that our significant success in securing so many new instructions is down to our undoubted brilliance… but perhaps I should leave that judgement to you… but come to think about it it is you who have made that judgement and hence our success ! The truth is probably that all the reports can ever do is to look at national averages which submerge local variations. We are now in the time of year when the domestic market is supposed to be at its strongest. Brexit seems to have slipped into the past, yet I suspect it will rear its head again as negotiations start being serious. One of the EU Presidents was reported 10

as saying that the UK must not be allowed to be in a better position after Brexit than it was before. Whilst that is quite understandable - as if it were to happen that way it would encourage other waverers to break away - it does indicate that our negotiators will have a fight on their hands. As of now the market outside of London seems pretty sound. It isn’t boom time but as I have said so often we do not want boom time back. It’s fun while it lasts but there is always payback time to follow and that can be very uncomfortable. If the market is better we should consider how to make the best of it. I have quoted the trite but true saying many times that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. That means the condition of the front elevation, its paint work and windows and the front garden. Overgrown grass and weed filled borders are not calculated to make a good impression. Any estate agent knows that people live in very different ways. From the extremes of serious OCD where everything has its place and is in it to the last centimetre to the frankly scruffy and almost unhygienic. The former may put some viewers off as the house looks somewhat clinical and not very comfortable. The latter speaks for itself. One problem which is serious and is often unrecognised is the unpleasant odour which is created by some domestic pets. The owners are often so accustomed to the smells that they do not notice. I have suggested that a good friend is asked to carry out a sniff test… and they must be very good friends if they have to bring bad news as telling someone that their house smells will stretch any friendship! We have all had bad experiences of this problem when viewing properties and it is enough to discourage potential buyers.

to overestimate people’s ability to imagine what a property could look like with some changes so making it look at its best is important. The state which some sellers leave their properties sometimes makes one wonder if they really do want to sell. Beware of last minute touching up of paintwork as recent and obvious work makes a potential buyer wonder what else might be covered up. The obvious answer is to keep properties in good condition but if things do need doing I always think it is best to leave things to the buyer. Put in a new white bathroom and the buyer will prefer pink or install an oak kitchen and the buyer prefers shaker style! I usually report on our performance during the last month, the spring has sprung, the grass has ris and fortunately we are not having to wonder where the buyers are as we have a satisfying number of them! Things are looking pretty good and the letting department is continuing its excellent performance. The five staff members in lettings are working well and have just secured the instructions of a local landlord to manage his extensive portfolio. I surprised someone the other day by telling them that there are seventeen people working in our Tettenhall office – she thought there were about five or six so perhaps it is worth making the numbers known and at the same time thank all our staff for their excellent work and commitment.

I think a well presented house has a much better chance of finding a buyer than one which is untidy and appears unloved. It is easy wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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TV, Audio & Home Automation Specialists Acoustic Boutique opened the doors to its revamped showroom in January 2017, moving to larger premises in the High Street, Shrewsbury, merging with the existing Bang & Olufsen showroom. Stocking a range of quality audio-visual products from Bang & Olufsen, Bose, Loewe and Ruark, they also sell Panasonic televisions, Sonos multi-room audio speakers and Pro-Ject turntables. “With new, larger premises, we can now offer a wider range of audio visual products and other complementary home furnishings and accessories,” said David Whittaker of Acoustic Boutique, which was founded two and a half years ago. Customers looking for home audio or visual products now have a ‘one stop shop’ for televisions from three brands, as well as the choice of a mirror or art TV which give customers the option of concealing their television, as well as Bluetooth speakers, headphones and wireless multi-room speakers from several brands.

The well-known brand, Bose, have a range of speakers and soundbars as well as the amazing Lifestyle system which gives full 5.1 surround sound to make films and television programmes even more engrossing and involving. With their smallest speakers ever, the Lifestyle 650 system offers amazing sound, with the ability to run the rear speakers wirelessly, making the installation easier and less invasive. And with interest free finance available on products over £1000, getting the picture and sound you are looking for is even easier. What sets Acoustic Boutique apart from the multi-brand stores is the level of product knowledge offered by the team in store, providing customers with a quality demonstration experience and advice to help them find the right

products for their home and their lifestyle. People can ask questions and find out the difference between such things as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi and how the new streaming services work. If you are confused by 4K, LED, OLED, or HDR, then the team can help you with the jargon and explain how these technologies can work for you, so don’t be scared to come in and ask questions. With stylish cabinets from the German manufacturer Spectral and a new range of furniture now available from the French brand Ligne Roset, supplied by the Chester-based furniture designers, Chattels, and lighting and blind solutions from Philips Hue and Lutron, they are also able to help provide a full home styling solution. “We pride ourselves on our levels of customer service from the moment our customers enter the showroom, to the final phase of installing their products, if required. We employ our own professional installation team who receive the highest praise from our customers on the quality of their installation and the friendliness of the service,” said David.

Come in and see us at 6 High Street, Shrewsbury, SY1 1SP or call us on 01743 240757 for more information about the services we offer. Visit our website www.acousticboutique.co.uk for details of our products and our opening hours. You can be assured of friendly and helpful service. 12

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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FANTASY

BECOMES FACT This is a local magazine and we take great pleasure in supporting, encouraging and celebrating local talent.

Very many people think they have a book in them. Only a few actually succeed in writing a book and even fewer have their book published. Robert J Marsters is a local man and is one of those few. He has written a fantasy novel entitled ‘The Ascension of Karrak’ which was published at the end of March when he had the singular and hard earned pleasure of holding a hard copy of the fruits of his labours. Robert is an interesting character who hides a cultured persona behind a modest and understated exterior. He was brought up by his mother in West Bromwich in circumstances where money was short and where books took the place of expensive toys resulting in a love of reading. Tolkien was an early influence. Fantasy and science fiction was a consuming interest.

After some happy years she was stricken by a potentially life threatening illness and Robert took time out to look after her.

During this time he was able to assess his life and realised that, although he was good at what he had been doing, he did not feel he was fulfilling his potential and was feeling frustrated because he felt he was capable of much more. His answer was to start writing and did so for two years culminating in the completion of his new book. So life has taken a new turn. His wife has come through her illness and Robert has gained the confidence which comes with successfully completing a difficult task and meeting an ambition. We wish him well with his first book. Number two has already been written and his fertile brain has number three planned.

Remember the name: Robert J Marsters. Remember the title: The Ascension of Karrak. You read about it here first. It can be purchased as a paperback or eBook from Amazon.co.uk, Amazon. com, Waterstones.com, AustinMacauley.com and, if you like it, please review it. You can follow Robert J Marsters on Facebook.

It is a long journey from a love of books to becoming a published author and Robert’s was far from the norm. By one of those accidents which can so often influence the future he found himself on the bottom rung of the retail furniture trade. He was a warehouseman and gradually worked his way up that ladder to becoming a store manager where his analytical brain made him a successful organiser capable of turning problem stores around and making them successful. So good did he become that management resisted further promotion as they could not afford to lose him from where he was so good and useful to them. He was the manager of a bedding store when fantasy touched his life. In walked a very special blonde lady intent upon buying a new bed and not only did she buy a new bed but Robert found himself a new wife! 14

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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LA CAGE AUX FOLLES Interview with Adrian Zmed & Marti Webb I think a lot of people are surprised with some aspects of the show, with how timely everything is. There’s the song which is regarded as the show’s theme song, I Am What I Am, which meant what it did at the time it was written but today, with the way the world is moving right now, it means even more. Then we have a song called The Best Of Times and that is all about living in the here and now and enjoying what you have now, not yesterday or in the future.”

Adrian Zmed plays the partner of leading man John Partridge, “I play Georges, the owner of the St Tropez nightclub that it is all about – it’s called La Cage aux Folles. “He’s running a three-ring circus. He’s putting on a show with the dancers and his partner Albin – the star of the show. At the same time, he’s got a son who announces that he’s getting married and the father of his girlfriend is quite a conservative gentleman and suddenly the entire world for these people in the club is turned upside down. And then there’s Marti Webb, whose character owns the best restaurant in all of town. “I play Jacqueline, owner of Chez Jacqueline” said Marti Webb. “It’s a lovely part in a lovely show, I watch some from the wings and I’m reminded of just what a fabulous show it is. I get some lovely costumes but not quite like those worn by the Cagelles or certainly not like those that John Partridge wears as Albin. There’s all the glamour in the night club, but I’m a bit more staid.”

a wonderful production to look at, there are wonderful sets and beautiful costumes and the Cagelles are absolutely amazing – they’re the dancers and they’re boys… but are they boys? They could be girls…. In this production, the “fourth wall” usually known as an imaginary barrier between the stage and the audience is completely removed, as Marti explains; “we don’t have a fourth wall in this production. The audience in the theatre that night actually becomes our audience in the La Cage Aux Folles club and my patrons in my restaurant and they’re very much part of the show all the time. “It’s part of the magic of this show,” explains Zmed; “as soon as I come onto stage, I interact with the audience and they are definitely part of our show. It’s a show that really speaks to the audience and

For Adrian Zmed, who has worked extensively in US theatre, this is his first time performing ‘across the pond’ in the UK. “I was in the original production of Grease on Broadway, playing Danny Zuko, then I went to Hollywood and started doing television and Grease 2. I returned to Broadway and I’ve since been involved in between 20 and 30 Broadway and US touring productions. My manager at the time said I needed to make the move from New York to Hollywood and it worked out great for me, now it’s time to make the move to the UK – for the first time ever! I love it here!” LA CAGE AUX FOLLES stars John Partridge, Adrian Zmed and Marti Webb at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Tuesday 27 June Saturday 1 July. Tickets can be bought by visiting the box office, calling 01902 42 92 12 or online at www.grandtheatre.co.uk

Zmed added, “This is a throwback to the old days of grand costumes, sets and choreography. It’s a story about family and a show with such heart, it’s also very funny.” “It’s lovely to hear people laugh, that’s really nice” said Marti, “it’s 16

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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Carvers Celebrate 50 Years’ Service During her time at the company, Lynda has worked for three generations of the Carver family and seen the offices move from Stafford Road, over the road to Littles Lane, not forgetting the time of the Carver fire back in 2012 when the main offices, warehousing and stock suffered a devastating fire. L-R: Mike McKay, Richard Boult, Neil Kendrick, Henry Carver, Lynda Ross (receiving her flowers) & Ivan Savage.

It takes a special kind of person to show true commitment, particularly when it’s shown to an organisation, rather than a specific individual and Carvers is lucky enough to have one such person celebrating their 50th year working for the Company. Accounts Manager, Lynda Ross started at Carvers back in 1967 on the 29th March, aged just 15. She started as an office junior, after finishing her schooling at Wobaston Secondary Modern.

some time in Credit Control. She also became responsible for the Sales & Purchase Ledgers for all the associate companies at this time – Carver Willenhall, Carver Oils, Carver Gases and Barrows Heating. During this time, things were very different and the accounts were all produced by punch tape and sent to a computer bureau to produce the ledgers. These days things have changed greatly! Lynda became Accounts Manager back in the early 80s, after gaining confidence and a lot of extra duties along the way!

Lynda comments: “I have met and worked with many interesting, kind and lovely people over the years and have always loved my work, becoming particularly engrossed in all the interesting jobs that have arisen. Like anyone, from a personal point I have experienced many ups and downs. But I can honestly say, that my job here at Carvers has provided me with such stability all through my adult life, and the support I have received from the directors and staff along the way has been exceptional”. Lynda celebrated her achievement, along with her work colleagues on Wednesday 12th April, where a presentation was made by Henry Carver.

After completing many office duties, including a 12 month stint on the Switchboard, Lynda moved over to the Carver Oils offices based at Long Acres, Willenhall to spend a short time at the offices, covering all areas. Lynda then returned to the Wolverhampton offices and spent

Lynda with some of her work colleagues

Motown night in aid of Charlie’s Challenges Charlie was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when he was just 1 year old. His mother Kate has made a commitment throughout 2017 to raise much needed funds for JDRF - Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. A Motown night has been organised on Saturday 27th May to be held at The West 18

End Working Men’s Club, Merridale Street, Merridale. The entertainment includes a Motown Devotions Tribute Band, a fantastic band performing all the classic songs which are guaranteed to fill the dance floor. The evening starts at 7.30pm Adult tickets £5, under 15s £2. All proceeds go to JDRF - Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation from Charlie’s Challenges.

There will be some fantastic raffle prizes on the night from Daytona Racetrack, Hatton Adventure Farm, Chester Racecourse and much more. There will be a DJ on before and after the band, everyone is welcome. For more information please visit their Facebook page: Charlie’s Challenges – JDRF fundraising

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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What’s on at West Midland

Safa r I

& LEIS URE

PA R K

Staff at West Midland Safari Park have a fun-filled few weeks coming up with the opening of a new education centre, a week celebrating rhinos and a fundraising week for bats. From 6 to 14 of May, guests will be able to take part in Protect Bats Week, a whole week dedicated to the conservation of these fascinating animals. There will be competitions to take part in, fun activities such as bat-themed arts and crafts and also the chance to meet the Park’s resident bats. All the money raised during the week will go to the Bat Conservation Trust. May will also see the opening of the Park’s brand new, state-of-the-art education centre, named Safari Academy. The outstanding, sustainably-built facility will feature five classrooms and has been designed specifically for visiting schools. Each classroom will be equipped with everything it needs to provide interactive education for groups of all ages, from pre-schools and nurseries, to university groups and adult learners. Groups can take part in a variety of activities to enhance their in-school learning, including curriculum

linked guided tours, hands-on Discovery Sessions and workshops. These will include close encounters with some of the Park’s smaller, friendly animals and a wide range of artefacts, all relevant to the chosen topic. For the Whitsun holidays, the Park will be hosting Rhino Week, for the second time. This week will run from 27 May to 4 June and guests can become a ‘Rhino Ranger,’ take part in rhino themed arts and crafts and participate in various activities and competitions. All funds raised from the week will be donated to Save the Rhino International and will support the Save the Rhino Trust. West Midland Safari Park is open for its summer season and the standard admission charge is £23.00 for adults, £18.00 for children aged 3-15 and £21.00 for concessions. Under 3s are free. Admission includes a voucher for a return visit or safari gift. Adventure Theme Park rides are charged extra. Further information and tickets are available from the Park’s website www.wmsp.co.uk or by telephone 01299 402114. You can find out more on the Safari Park’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ WestMidSafari.

This month we have teamed up with West Midland Safari & Leisure Park to give you the chance to win free admission tickets. The tickets entitle a family of four to visit on one occasion up to 3rd November 2017. Theme Park rides not included.

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

What is the name of the new education centre at the Park? Email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk or on a postcard to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY.

All entries to be received by Friday 16th June 2017. Competition Terms and Conditions - Winners will be chosen at random from all correct entries received. The ticket includes admission to the four-mile self-drive safari, Discovery Trail exhibits, animal encounters, African Village and live shows. Usual admission is £23.00 for adults, £18.00 for children and £21.00 for concessions. Children under 3 are admitted free of charge. No cash or alternative prize will be given. Prize valid until Friday 3rd November 2017 excluding Bank Holidays.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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Panoramic view across Lichfield

Lashings of Lichfield By Rob Taylor

It’s sometimes still hard for us Wulfrunians to remember that Wolverhampton is a city. Careless remarks such as “I’m popping up town” litter daily life and exist still despite 17 years of official city status. Maybe it’s because when used in such utterances ‘town’ has a certain ring to it that ‘city’ lacks, or maybe it’s because none of us really know quite why or how Wolverhampton was given the nod in 2000 when five times previously it had been rejected. Maybe officials were too drunk on Millennium celebrations to be pedantic this time. One city that has been about for much longer is Lichfield. Although by today’s standards it’s hard to fathom why exactly. Today we think of cities as having large conurbations, like Birmingham or London. So how did Lichfield, an area of less than 6 square miles with a modest population of around 34,000 become a city? Surely by that measure every town, everywhere, ought to be entitled. Well, no, because as soon as Henry VIII sat as head of the Church of England in the sixteenth 24

century he merrily made it all up as he went along, introducing the concept of dioceses (a number of parishes supervised by a bishop) and therefore city status came soon after. Wells in Somerset – England’s smallest city – is an even more extreme example of this. It took until 1889, when Birmingham lobbied on the basis of its population growth and local government achievements, to break the mould. So in a nutshell behind it all was a cathedral. Famous for its majestic medieval three spires, Lichfield Cathedral was attacked three times during the Civil War when the roof was holed and

the central spire destroyed by cannon fire. Parliamentary forces also defaced and destroyed many of the original features. It was then swiftly restored in the 1660s under the supervision of Bishop Hacket. James Wyatt continued the restoration work in the eighteenth century and made substantial changes to the structure. And then finally the cathedral had its medieval splendour recaptured by cathedral architect Sir George Gilbert Scott in 1855. Inside the magnificent walls there are treasures which include 8th century St Chad Gospels, 16th century Flemish Glass, monuments by Chantrey

Tudor Café dating back to 1510

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

and Epstein and the 20th century Lang Lichfield Silver Commission. Lichfield today lies in the county of Staffordshire but 1300 years ago it stood at the centre of what was then the Kingdom of Mercia. Go even further back and inevitably we run into Romans, the story of which is best explained by a visit to the National Trust’s Letocetum Roman Baths and Museum. The remains of this important Roman staging post and settlement provide excellent insight into Roman Britain and particularly Lichfield’s importance as a key Roman-Britain settlement during the Roman advance into Wales in 78 AD. Another notable place to visit is Eramus Darwin House. Former home of leading 18th century doctor, scientist, inventor and poet, Erasmus Darwin – who

was grandfather to Charles Darwin and founder member of the Lunar Society of Birmingham – this stunning Grade I-listed Georgian house is a prominent local landmark. Now run as a dedicated museum, the house brings to life one of the foremost physicians of his time – he once declined a request to be personal doctor to King George III; was the most popular poet of the 1790s - but his greatest legacy was the theory of biological evolution by means of natural selection, later proven by his significantly more famous grandson. Another big hitter from Lichfield is Samuel Johnson. The man of Dictionary fame has his birthplace now open to the public. Set over five floors and packed to the gunwales with elucidating exhibits, his birthplace is slap

Statue of Samuel Johnson

bang in the centre of the city on Breadmarket Street and charts the story of young Samuel – from difficult childhood to national celebrity. I bet he’d have been great on Countdown. After so many tongue-twisting wordy workouts visitors will be grateful for one of the 30 licensed pubs in the city. In 1732 there were 80, owing to the city’s central location and that pubs provided quarters for soldiers before proper army barracks existed at Whittington. Many old ones are still open for business: The Horse and Jockey, The Pig and Truffle and The Queen’s Head remain popular. Others such as The Bluebell, Bull’s Head and Bridge Tavern are long gone.

The entrance to Cathedral Close, with Lichfield Cathedral in the background

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Happily Lichfield’s city status remains. And no council or wife-killing, gout-stricken monasterial-burning monarch would dare ever take it away. 25

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RECIPE

Five Spice Chicken

with Soy and Honey Sauce Serves 4 Ready in 50 minutes Chinese five-spice paste is an aromatic blend of cinnamon, fennel, star anise, ginger and cloves. It’s great for adding an authentic Oriental flavour to meat, fish and poultry. You’ll find small jars of it in the herb and spice sections of most supermarkets. INGREDIENTS • 4 chicken fillets with skin • 10ml (2tsp) Chinese five spice paste • 10ml (2tsp) sunflower oil • 60ml (4tbsp) light soy sauce • 30ml (2tbsp) runny honey • 1 tbsp sweet chilli sauce • 225g (8oz) hot cooked long grain rice, to serve • Shredded spring onions and finely chopped red chilli, to garnish

Preheat the oven to 190C/375F/Gas 5. Spread the five-spice paste over the skin of each chicken fillet and place in a foil-lined roasting tin. Drizzle over the oil and roast for 30-35 mins until the chicken is

mins until slightly thickened, Stir in the sweet chilli sauce.

cooked through and the spice coated skin is lightly charred.

METHOD 2.

Remove the chicken from the tin and cover and keep warm. Pour any juices from the roasting tin into a small pan and add the soy sauce and honey. Bring to the boil then reduce the heat and simmer for 4-5

Slice each chicken fillet into 5 pieces and arrange on a bed of hot cooked rice. Garnish with the shredded spring onion. Serve the soy and honey sauce in small bowls, garnished with chopped red chilli.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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B J ’S C h a r ity goes from strength to strength

A family of fundraisers, along with their friends, are celebrating after raising almost £20,000 for charity, in memory of their loved ones.

The group began its fundraising in 2010 with its inaugural bike ride. Then in 2014 an annual charity walk was added to the group’s programme of activities, after the father of Bijay, Gurmel Singh, died of bowel cancer that year.

The group, BJ’s Charity, raised £19,917 from May to August last year.

In July last year, a total of 40 walkers, including Tirath Kaur, Khela Bijay’s 72-year-old mother, put their best foot forward to complete a 12 mile walk in the Peak District National Park. The walk began in Buxton and ended in Bakewell.

The Khela and Aujla family set up BJ’s Charity group in 2010, a year after Bijay Khela died of a brain tumour. Bijay was only 41 when he died in 2009 after four years fighting the tumour. To honour his memory, his siblings Pete Khela of the Parklands and Kami Aujla of Denmore Gardens, Wolverhampton, decided to set up the group and raise money for charity in his name.

the Great North Run and other races throughout the country. A group of around 10 cyclists also completed a bike ride which started on Monday, July 25 in Great Yarmouth and saw the group go through Peterborough, Wolverhampton and Liverpool. After crossing the Irish Sea to Dublin they cycled to Athlone finally arriving in Galway on Friday, 29 July. On average, the group covered around 107 miles a day during the week-long cycle ride.

Despite having a damaged ankle, Mrs Khela was motivated by the memory of her son and husband and completed the full 12 miles, raising £300 individually for good causes.

Funds raised will now be donated to the nominated charities: Steve Bull Foundation, Cancer Research, Cardiac Risk in the Young, CLIC Sargent, Rays of Sunshine, Unique Home for Girls and Let us play.

Pete Khela, along with friend and fellow cyclist, Gaff Mehat, also completed the London Marathon in memory of his brother last year. He also took part in

Steve Bull said: “I’m thrilled that the foundation has been chosen to receive the money raised from some of the family’s fantastic fundraising efforts.”

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

As seen on...

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DIY SOS

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With over 350 kitchen transformations completed in the Wolverhampton area, Dream Doors has a portfolio bulging with satisfied customers. Since its owner, Richard Foster, started taking orders while working from home in 2013 Dream Doors, based on the Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton has grown in to an established local business. “It’s been fantastic” says Richard. We’ve been absolutely flat out and have had to increase our infrastructure and we also now have 4 installation teams in order to keep up with the ever-growing demand” he says. “We find our showroom is very important for customers to come and visit, as people want to see the quality of our large selection of products for themselves. Importantly, they also want to feel reassured they’re dealing with a business that has a local presence – a place to go to if anything were to go wrong. “We give even more reassurance than that at Dream Doors, though,” he adds. “You only have to look at our website to realise 32

we aren’t just an independent local business. With over 70 branches across the country and an eighteen year history, we are part of a national brand - and the biggest name in kitchen facelifts.” Dream Doors specialise in time and money-saving kitchen and bedroom makeovers, as well as full installations, all fitted by approved and vetted local installers. Started in Hampshire in the late 1990s, the brand now has franchised showrooms as far afield as Truro and Lanarkshire. Dream Doors Wolverhampton brings the company’s innovative kitchen door replacement service to homes throughout the WV postcode area. “We offer an outstanding product and service, delivered in a manner that ensures total customer satisfaction,” says Richard. “Whatever our customers want, we’re almost always able to say yes to them. If they need some new doors to fit an existing kitchen, we can supply made-to-measure replacements that can be fitted in just one day. If they want to incorporate worktops and a sink, or even a total refurbishment, we sell some of the best products around at very competitive

prices. We can also do complete makeovers to bedrooms whether it be a simple door swap on some wardrobes or indeed a full bedroom design and installation.” Dream Doors’ customers are invited to submit feedback on the independent consumer monitoring website, Checkatrade.com and now have over 180 reviews online with an average rating of 9.8/10. One customer in Wolverhampton gave Dream Doors a glowing testimonial, writing: “From start to finish the most professional and reliable company I have ever dealt with.” Another local homeowner wrote: “We’re over the moon with the service and work done. We can’t speak highly enough of them. We’ve never been so pleased with the quality, standard and service provided from any trader before.” If you would like a Free No Obligation Quotation give Dream Doors Wolverhampton a call on 01902 752200 to discuss your requirements or pop in to see them at 281 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton WV6 0LE. Contact Dream Doors today on 01902 752200 or visit www.dreamdoors.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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Al fresco Living

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Edge Modular Garden Sofa by 4 Seasons Outdoor £2,449 Cuckooland.com

The summer is finally here, so make the most of those long, hot days by moving your living space outdoors. Whether you’ve got plenty of outdoor space or maybe just a small area, you can create a fantastic and versatile space that’ll provide the perfect refuge after a busy day.

Get comfy The right seating is essential for offering both style and practicality. If you simply want to enjoy a coffee outside, then a basic – yet decorative – small table and chairs will suffice, however if you’re keen to enjoy most of your evening meals and free time outdoors, then invest in comfy weather-proof seating, complete with footstools and a large table.

Essential maintenance It’s absolutely essential to maintain your outdoor living space all year round to get the most enjoyment in the summer months. Regular cleaning and weeding of your patio or decking is a must and ensuring that your garden is neat and tidy is essential.

Bring the outdoors in Adding bi-fold, sliding or patio doors to your home will allow you to easily blend your inside and outside living spaces. Of course, if you really want to make the most of your garden, an orangery or garden room will allow you to enjoy the outside views all year round.

Light it up Dress-up your outside living space with the right lighting. It’s an easy and quick way to instantly transform the look of your space and serves to allow you to enjoy Al fresco dining with friends after the sun goes down. String lights work really well for small patios and lanterns are the perfect addition to any table. Statement lighting works well in a modern outside living space, whereas garden lamp posts add real character to a traditionally styled garden.

Add colour Brighten-up your newly styled outside space with bold accessories, like cushions and tableware, and fill your garden planters with an array of colourful flowers. 34

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wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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Grand Theatre COMPETITION A lawyer obsessed with a curse that he believes has been cast over him and his family by the spectre of a Woman in Black, engages a sceptical young actor to help him tell his terrifying story and exorcise the fear that grips his soul. It all begins innocently enough, but then, as they reach further into his darkest memories, they find themselves caught up in a world of eerie marshes and moaning winds. The borders between make believe and reality begin to blur and the flesh begins to creep. David Acton will play the role of Mr Kipps and The Actor will be played Matthew Spencer.

One lucky reader can win 2 tickets to see THE WOMAN IN BLACK on Monday 22nd May 2017 at 7.30pm at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre.

The production’s huge popularity has reached a global level, having toured to the United States, South

America, Tokyo and Singapore. In 2012, Susan Hill’s novel The Woman in Black was released as a major motion picture, starring Daniel Radcliffe, which became the highest grossing British horror film in 20 years. Join the 7 million theatregoers worldwide who have experienced “The most brilliantly effective spine-chiller you will ever encounter” : Daily Telegraph. Tickets for The Woman in Black from 22nd – 27th May 2017 are now on sale at The Grand Theatre Box Office.

“IT WAS NINE-THIRTY ON CHRISTMAS EVE….” Continuing its record breaking run at the Fortune Theatre in London’s West End, The Woman in Black now embarks on a major UK Tour this spring and is coming to Wolverhampton from 22 – 27 May 2017. Susan Hill’s acclaimed ghost story comes dramatically alive in Stephen Mallatratt’s ingenious stage adaptation. This gripping production, directed by Robin Herford, is a brilliantly successful study in atmosphere, illusion and controlled horror.

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

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send it on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Wolverhampton West Magazine or email info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk by Monday 15th May 2017.

Who wrote The Woman in Black? A. B. C. D. 38

J. K. Rowling Susan Hill Charles Dickens Emily Bronte

Competition Terms and Conditions Please send postal entries to Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY or email info@wolverhamptonwestmag. co.uk. To be received no later than Monday 15th May 2017. Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the evening of the performance. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash or alternative prize nights available. Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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Spring/Summer’17 Lighting Trend With spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, new lighting trends are upon us. Alongside returning old favourites and new additions to much loved collections, our much-loved lighting

suppliers have brought out some impressive new fittings signalling the start of a new season. Listed below are some of the latest trends coming in for the new season to provide inspiration for your decorating endeavours.

Tropical Paradise The underdog of all trends. A tropical breeze has taken over and

filled our manufacturers’ heads with some stunning designs this year. As well as this, we are also ecstatic to announce a brandnew range of homeware too! Don’t let our name fool you into thinking that lights are all we do. The tropical styles and summerinfused colours are what we all need to brighten up our homes.

L-R: Divizes Tables, Wagon Mirror, Lois Mirror, Thasos Mirror, Erin Table, Phillipa Pendant, Benedita Table Lamp, Nazare Table Lamp, Cipriano Table Lamp, Sintra Table Lamp, Solomon Table, Tewkesbury Side Table, Vladimir Cupboard, Tovey Mirror.

Bright Colours 2015’s highly sought after trend for brightly coloured light fittings shows no sign of disappearing. With a new take on bold, a wide range of colourful fittings are available, adding a much-needed splash of life and colour to any

room at home. Lighting brand Dar have taken steps to branch out with colour. Among many things, Dar are known for their collection of bespoke silk shades, which already come in a fantastic range of colours. New lighting additions from Dar such as the Cibana Table Lamp and Sullivan Pendant (below)

are prime examples of what we are looking for from this season’s trend. All fittings mentioned in this article are available to buy on our brand-new website, which is launching the start of May. Visit www.lightingrus.co.uk today or alternatively visit our Aldersley showroom.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Award-winning gardens on our doorstep

Visitors to the prizewinning garden at 19 Waterdale in Compton will have an extra treat this year, as they will be able to see the neighbouring garden at number 12, as well. Anne and Brian Bailey, who have been opening their garden for 6 years to raise money for charity through the National Garden Scheme, have persuaded their neighbours, Colin and Clair Bennett

to join them this year and give visitors even more to see. The two gardens offer an interesting contrast in styles. Number 12 has an open sunny aspect with colourful traditional herbaceous borders, while at number 19, meandering paths through lush foliage lead to hidden surprises such as the ruined folly, shell grotto and gothic summerhouse, which has been featured on George Clarke’s ‘Amazing Spaces’ TV programme. Anne Bailey said “People visit the garden for many different reasons. Some are looking for ideas to try in their own gardens or for advice on growing plants, while others come for an afternoon out and the opportunity to enjoy tea and delicious cakes in beautiful surroundings.”

• Open days – Sunday 4th June 12.30-5.30pm • Sunday 2nd July 12.30-5.30pm • The garden at 19 Waterdale can also be visited by groups of 10-30 people on other days by private arrangement • Photo opportunities by arrangement • 19 Waterdale was featured on Amazing Spaces – Shed of the Year on 31st July 2014 • 19 Waterdale won the Daily Mail National Garden Competition 2015 Contact: Anne and Brian Bailey, 19 Waterdale, Compton, Wolverhampton WV3 9DY. Tel: 01902 424867. Email: m.bailey1234@btinternet.com

The National Garden Scheme is celebrating 90 years of opening private gardens for charity this year and has raised over £50 million pounds for nursing charities since it started in 1927. • Admission charges for NGS open days: • £5.00 per person - tea and cake charged separately.

The Magic Garden ‘Spectrum’ and ‘Spectacle’

On the west side of Wolverhampton, just across from lovely Bantock Park, is a small urban jewel, filmed often by various television companies; photographed frequently by noted professionals, and written about in many well-known horticultural publications. The Magic Garden at 43 Broad Lane Bradmore WV3 9BW opens twice to the public in 2017. 44

On 13th May with ‘Tulip Spectrum’, when over 4,000 bulbs planted last December both in the ground and in numerous pots will bloom in colour themed groups, progressing through the spectrum. There will be many varieties of particular interest to florists and flower arrangers. Tracey from Angela Bulbs will be donating a stall of plants with all proceeds going to our charities. During the afternoon, delicious homemade cakes and teas will be served, and on the 13th May, there will be a particularly good plant stall stocked by a keen supporter of ours, Tracey Coyne, Managing Director of Anglia Bulb Company, Colchester. All proceeds will go to the following charities: Diabetes UK, Cancer Research and The Swan Sanctuary at Shepperton.

with hundreds of scented lilies, again in pots and in the garden. Opening times are 1.30pm-5.30pm. Entrance £3, children under 16, free. Well behaved dogs on leads welcome. After your treat, take them for their treat - a walk round Bantock Park! Everyone is welcome to come along and donate, indulge and take away a plant. www.themagicgarden.webs.com Tel: 01902 332228

On the 22nd July the garden theme will be ‘Lily Spectacle’ wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Whether you require refurbishment, extensions or new build, Three Pines are building contractors in Wolverhampton, who have the skills and expertise to handle your project from planning through to completion. The building company has over 50 years of experience in construction, covering commercial and domestic development, with many of the carpenters and bricklayers having been employed by the company for over 20 years. The company is well established as being outstanding in its refurbishment and maintenance contracts and is considerate of the care and understanding needed when working on projects in both domestic and commercial sectors.

www.three-pines.co.uk Cullwick Court, Cullwick Street, Wolverhampton WV1 2UR Tel: 01902 499919 Email: info@three-pines.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton

Best Foot Forward is back! On Saturday 1st July 2017 between the hours of 8 am and 8 pm, the Rotary Club of Wolverhampton will once again be staging this unique fundraising event at Aldersley Stadium. The Club are hoping to beat the £22k raised for good causes last year. The event is again supported by Wolverhampton City Council, the Express & Star, The James Beattie Charitable Trust and Wolverhampton West Magazine. Event Patrons, drawn from local communityminded businesses and organisations, have each pledged at least £250 to establish a charity “pot” and every time someone completes a lap a £1 is released from the pot for this year’s event charities. It is not too late to become a Patron. Please contact the Rotary Club, via the event website. This year’s charities are the Wolverhampton MS Therapy Centre (www.mscentre.co.uk), Central Youth Theatre (www.centralyouththeatre.org) and the Rotary Charitable Trust. Everyone is welcome to take part! Whether you are young or old, in a wheelchair, dressed in fancy dress or even super fit, you can do as many laps of the stadium as you wish - and at any time of your choice between 8 am and 8 pm. You can walk, jog, run or whatever takes your fancy! You can even try and persuade your dog to take part! A personal chip keeps a tally of your laps completed.

Registration is now open and the Rotary Club are seeking as many event participants as possible. The challenge is on to beat the total of funds raised last year. Anyone interested in “rising to the challenge” and joining the event on 1st July can find information and registration details by logging on to www. wolverhamptonbestfootforward. com. Entry is free for anyone under 16 years of age and for those 16 and over the charge is a modest £5 per head towards the cost of staging the event. The Rotary Club is delighted that squads of trainees from RAF Cosford will again be taking part in the event, each squad vying to complete the most laps. Last year there were a record number of participants completing over 100 laps each thus joining the Best Foot Forward Centurions Club. But don’t worry, even if you can only complete a few laps at whatever speed, it will be greatly appreciated and help to release the charity pot for the event charities. Best Foot Forward also allows organisations to boost their own funds by their supporters obtaining personal sponsorship, quite distinct from the funds being released for the event charities. Details and sponsorship forms can be found on the website. In the meantime, don’t forget to put Saturday 1st of July in your diary!

Apprentice Award The Rotary Club of Wolverhampton make a number of awards annually to Youth in the local community. At a dinner held at Perton Park Golf Club, the club’s President Stuart Williams, presented this year’s award of The George Sidebotham Trophy, in memory

of Past President and District Governor, George Sidebotham, to Madeline Whiting, an apprentice from The Michael Beetham Centre at RAF Cosford. As well as club members and guests a number of past winners also attended and gave an update on their careers since concluding their apprentiships.

The Club’s President Stuart Williams and Madeline Whiting

For information about the Dragon Boat Challenge at Himley, visit www.rotaryclubwolverhampton.co.uk 46

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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Giving Back to the Community Paycare has further strengthened its support of the local community following its most recent agreement to sponsor Tettenhall Tigers Volleyball Club, a club aimed at developing skills amongst young people aged 7 and over, both in the sport and beyond. Nick Shaffery, Club Coach at Tettenhall Tigers Volleyball Club, explained: “Our club is all about inclusivity, and welcoming with open arms anyone who wants to become involved with the club and volleyball as a sport. This includes our players, who can enjoy competing, being active and socialising, but also extends to our wider community where there are opportunities for people to progress to coaches, managers and officials, and parents to start playing and getting active.”

Paycare’s support will go towards the club’s funding for the sports hall hire required for five hours each week, entry fees for the West Midlands Volleyball Leagues and National Junior competitions, as well as towards child welfare courses, coaching and officiating courses, and marketing collateral such as kits and promotional banners. Kevin Rogers, CEO of Paycare, explained: “We’re delighted to be providing our support

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to the Tettenhall Tigers. At Paycare, we’re passionate about enhancing the physical and mental health and wellbeing of our team and our policyholders across the UK, and sport can help with everything from socialising, confidence and communication skills, to fitness levels and teamwork abilities. We look forward to working more closely with the club and in further encouraging people of all ages to enjoy volleyball as a sport.”

Double glazing Problems?

Double-glazed doors and windows are made up of two sealed sheets of glass with an insulating void between them. This gap is either in the form of a vacuum, or more commonly filled with a heavy inert gas such as argon. Together, the panes of glass and the void between them are very effective at preventing heat loss. However, over time the effectiveness of the double-glazing can wane, especially if the seal goes around one of the panes of glass, allowing air to replace either the vacuum or the inert gas between the panes. The most common side effect of a seal going is that the window will fog up, as water vapour condenses on the inside surface of the window. If you notice your windows have become foggy, misty or steamy when you try to look through them, it means that the seals have started to fail. If you have any of the above issues with your double glazing get in touch with Blake’s Glass and Glazing for a cost effective solution. 50

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Using the latest and best equipment the team are able to take care of all of those annoying issues that make driveways look unsightly.

The driveway is one of the first things we notice when we arrive at a property, yet it’s something that we often overlook when it comes to our own home. It’s easy to concentrate efforts elsewhere, but neglecting the driveway can really spoil the look of your property. Fortunately, DCS are on-hand to give tired driveways a new lease of life with their professional cleaning and restoration service. Co-owner Julie Cotterill, explains: “We take care of all aspects of cleaning, restoration and maintenance. We use a revolutionary industrial pressure rotary cleaning system and our machines are purposely designed to restore hardworking surfaces by providing a unique deep cleansing system.”

“Our deep cleaning system removes most tyre marks, most oil stains, weeds, moss and slippery algae. We use a chemical-free industrial high pressure water system to restore the look of the drive.” Established in 2009, the family-run business has gone from strength to strength over the years and husband and wife team, Rob and Julie and their son Richard have become highly recommended by homeowners. “We’ve earned a great reputation in the local area and our customers have been delighted with the results and the service we offer.”

“People pay thousands of pounds to have their driveway put down, yet they don’t consider the need to maintain it, a professional clean can really bring it back to life.” It’s not just driveways that benefit though, DCS also extend their cleaning service to paving and patios, facias, soffits, guttering and conservatories. “We offer free no-obligation quotes and work hard to ensure that our pricing is extremely competitive.” Excellent customer service is the number one priority for the company and they’ve even earned accreditation by Age Concern - something that reflects the high standards they work to. So, why not contact the team for a quote today?

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The growing season

has arrived

at Lealans Garden Centre There’s plenty to plant out and do in the vegetable plot at the moment. Plant smaller quantities little and often to keep a steady supply of veg for the kitchen. Sow or plant salad crops fortnightly. There’s no need for vegetable and salad shortages when you can grow it yourself. Lettuces in particular have a fairly quick turn round. There’ll be a full range of vegetable and herb plants available now in garden centres. Remember don’t plant out tomato plants or cucumbers until it’s warmer at night – they soon go blue if they’re cold! Make up hanging baskets and tubs, but don’t leave them outside at night until the beginning of June, a late frost will spoil them. Use a good multipurpose or tub and basket compost that has added

moisture control and slow release fertilizer. Don’t be tempted to put them in a dark garage or shed, they need good light levels to get established. A popular theme at the moment is to plant up your basket with just one type of plant – Million Bells, Trailing Petunias, and Verbenas are ideal to do this with. Summer bedding can be planted outside from the end of May onwards, so long as we aren’t getting any late frosts. Antirrhinums, Asters and Lobelia first, leaving Marigolds, Begonias, Impatiens and Geraniums until the beginning of June if necessary. Water well to get established, feed fortnightly and dead head regularly. Prune spring flowering shrubs once flowering has finished – forsythia, spiraea and flowering currants - this will produce nice long growths for next spring’s

Tips are provided by Ann Winwood, Lealans Garden Centre, Wolverhampton flowers. Once Clematis montana has finished flowering, prune back to encourage new compact growth. Now that the gardening season is in full swing, keep the lawn in good order by treating any weeds and moss with products such as Scotts ‘Evergreen Complete’ which will fertilise the lawn as well as killing weeds and moss. Never be tempted to rake out moss before killing it, you’ll just make the problem worse. MO Bacter, the moss treatment and lawn food I wrote about last month, can be applied to your lawn at any time from March through to September. A new product from the makers of MO Bacter is Bio-Press which is an organic spot treatment for patches of heavily moss infected lawns, it’s child and pet friendly and works within days.

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www.lealansgardencentre.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Summer garden design

I N S P I R AT I O N

If you are thinking of getting your garden professionally designed this summer, what should you be looking out for when choosing a landscape company? We ask Martin Neenan, General Manager at the award-winning Boningale Garden Creations for his advice and tips.

What makes a good garden designer? A good garden designer has to be in tune with the customer – and gaining trust is absolutely vital. This means spending time with them to ascertain exactly how they want to use the garden and what it is they want to achieve within your budget. What should people look for if they want to use a garden design company? Do some digging! Before signing on the dotted line, ask to speak to previous customers and check to see if it is a member of the Association of Professional Landscapers – this

will give added assurance of quality and guarantee of service. Will they help us choose the best hard landscaping materials? Materials are one of the most important components in the design (and budget) and with so many options, from slate, block paving and brick to concrete and gravel – not forgetting natural materials like hedging and trees - to choose from, it may feel overwhelming. A good company will advise on the pros and cons of each type of material taking into account the design brief, surrounding landscape as well as each home’s architectural style. Where can we get inspiration from? Visiting National Trust gardens is a great way to pick up ideas. You don’t have to have a large garden to be able to inject some of the design styles that are used in Trust Gardens. It’s about honing the idea and having the imagination to see how they could work in a domestic environment.

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

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C a r v e r s for all your home improvement projects

Rumour has it … summer is well on the way and now is the perfect time to start thinking about dusting down the cobwebs and start preparing your home and garden for the summer months.

offering lots of ideas to help you make up your mind, including natural stone paving, block paving, garden walling, fencing, edging, decking, decorative stone and accessories, along with many other feature products including Orangeries and Conservatories by Bespoke Windows, who are based on-site at Littles Lane.

Whether you are in need of a complete renovation or want to simply update what you already have, there are plenty of options available down at your local builders’ merchants.

The centre benefits from a huge landscaping display at the store entrance, showcasing a large selection of products on display. Making it incredibly easy to view the products, when they are right there in front of you. All the products are suitably laid in situ, so customers can get a clear idea of what the products would look like in their own back garden. Carvers have landscaping experts on hand to advise right through the decision making process.

Creating your perfect outdoor space can be incredibly daunting and with an endless list of possibilities, this may well be a task that keeps getting put on the back burner year after year. It can be almost impossible to imagine your ideal space when you have a blank canvas in front of you. With this in mind, pay a visit to the Landscaping Centre at Carvers Building Supplies. They have a wide range of products on display,

bathrooms with a complete design and fit service. The team can work wonders to create a bathroom that not only lives up to your dreams, but also fits in with your budget too. Tile Choice are on hand with a huge selection of floor and wall tiles to complement any room in your house and Dixons decorating department offer all manner of decorating materials, specialist paints, wallpapers and a full paint mixing service. They are also on hand to offer advice on any decorating problems you may have. Carvers is open to Trade and Retail customers and has a huge Kitchen, Bathroom and Cooker Centre showroom, along with a very nice Café!

If the inside of your home is the priority this season, Carvers has a fantastic range of bathroom suites – ranging from takeaway bathrooms at budget prices, right through to

Carvers are open Monday to Friday 7.00am – 4.50pm and Saturdays from 7.30am to 4.20pm. For more information contact Carvers on: 01902 577000 or log on to: www.carvers.co.uk 56

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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Wolverhampton father and daughter

Unite in the fight to beat cancer Wolverhampton dad David Smith has a special reason for volunteering at Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life.

The 70-year-old former Civil Servant has had to share his life with cancer for the past 33 years. After losing his wife to the disease in 2005 he was proud to witness his daughter Emily join Cancer Research UK in 2009 as an Area Event Manager and organise Race for Life in their hometown, Wolverhampton. David immediately joined a crucial band of volunteers who help make the event happen every year. But in 2010 he was diagnosed with mouth cancer and the battle began again. This year David is back for the 7th time and more determined than ever to take on cancer at Wolverhampton’s Race for Life in West Park. David wants

to encourage more women to take part in the event and more volunteers to sign up to help at the event which takes place on Wednesday 7th June. “Losing my wife and then being diagnosed myself was unthinkable but I refuse to let cancer define our family,” said David who was faced with treatment at the same time his daughter Emily was due to get married. David nursed his wife Denise through breast cancer in 1984 but lost her to ovarian cancer in 2005. Five years later he was diagnosed with mouth cancer after visiting the dentist with a suspected abscess on his gum. David underwent surgery to remove the cancerous tissue followed by a three month course of chemotherapy and radiotherapy at New Cross Hospital. Knowing the treatment could affect his ability to speak David recorded his ‘father of the bride’ speech beforehand. Three days after leaving hospital, in September 2010, David proudly walked his daughter down the

aisle and received a standing ovation for his speech which was played at the reception. “I’m so proud of Emily’s work for Cancer Research UK I want to do all I can to help,” said David. “Every year I volunteer at a number of Race for Life events but Wolverhampton will always hold a special place for me. Watching my daughter on stage rallying the ladies to the start line makes me very proud. This year we have a clear message ‘Cancer we’re coming to get you’.’’ Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, is an inspiring womenonly series of 5k events which raise millions of pounds every year to help defeat cancer by funding life-saving research. Emily Thompson, David’s daughter and Senior Area Event Manager for Race for Life said: ‘‘when you or a loved one get a cancer diagnosis, you can feel powerless to change what’s happening. “But taking part in Race for Life helps participants feel they’re making a real difference and doing something tangible to help. If you are thinking of signing up, stop thinking - please just do it! It’ll be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll have.’’ Cancer Research UK’s life-saving work relies on the public’s support. Thanks to the generosity of its supporters, the charity was able to spend over £9million last year in the West Midlands on some of the UK’s leading scientific and clinical research - helping more men, women and children survive.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

David and Emily outside the church before the wedding ceremony

Every day, around 85 people are diagnosed with cancer in the West Midlands*. Everyone is special, everyone is somebody’s mum, dad, brother, sister, friend or colleague. That’s why we’re calling on ladies in Wolverhampton to sign up right now and be part of a collective force of women who stand united in their aim to beat cancer sooner.” Emily continued: “Race for Life is an amazing way to celebrate life but also remember those who have been lost to the disease. There are over 200 cancers and we won’t give up until we find cures for them all.”

Race for Life events in West Midlands 5k Events in West Midlands 14th May Walsall, Arboretum 7th June Wolverhampton, West Park 9th July

Himley Hall, Dudley

10k Events in West Midlands 14th May Walsall Arboretum

Pretty Muddy Events in West Midlands

by 2034, 3 in 4 people will survive their cancer for at least 10 years.

About Cancer Research UK

• Cancer Research UK supports research into all aspects of cancer through the work of over 4,000 scientists, doctors and nurses.

• Cancer Research UK is the world’s leading cancer charity dedicated to saving lives through research.

• Together with its partners and supporters, Cancer Research UK’s vision is to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

• Cancer Research UK’s pioneering work into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer has helped save millions of lives.

For further information about Cancer Research UK’s work or to find out how to support the charity, please call 0300 123 1022 or visit www.cancerresearchuk.org

6th May

Weston Park 5k and 10k

• Cancer Research UK receives no government funding for its life-saving research. Every step it makes towards beating cancer relies on every pound donated.

• Cancer Research UK has been at the heart of the progress that has already seen survival in the UK double in the last forty years. • Today, 2 in 4 people survive their cancer for at least 10 years. Cancer Research UK’s ambition is to accelerate progress so that

Let’s beat cancer sooner To enter Race for Life today go to www.raceforlife.org or call 0845 600 6050 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Spring lunch raises over £4000 for children’s charity Tricia Ward-Jones held her annual Spring Ladies Lunch on Monday 3rd April at The Down Inn in Bridgnorth. 80 ladies attended the event which raised over £4,000 for Promise Dreams, a Wolverhampton-based charity who turn dreams into reality for terminally and seriously ill children across the UK. The attendees enjoyed a demonstration of spring flower arrangements from local florist Chelsea Owen, owner of ‘Inspired by Chelsea’ on Railway Street, Bridgnorth, followed by a two course dinner and a raffle and auction in which prizes such as beauty hampers and kitchenware were up for grabs. With the funds raised Promise Dreams

has been able to help a young man named Finlay to have lifechanging surgery. Finlay had a bleed in his brain shortly after birth that left him with cerebral palsy. Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) surgery combined with intense physiotherapy will enable him to stand and walk independently for the first time in his life. A long-term supporter of Promise Dreams, Tricia organises a Spring and a Christmas Lunch each year to raise money for the charity and has raised over £25k. In 2012 she won the Lyn Evans Fundraiser of the Year award as a result of her efforts. Beverley Bird, manager of Promise Dreams charity, said “We couldn’t be more grateful for the support that Tricia has given the charity over the years, not to mention the ladies who attend her event year after year and give so

generously. Their ongoing support makes such a huge difference to the families that we are able to help. Steve and Sharon at The Down Inn are always so generous too and we can’t thank them enough for hosting Tricia’s events.” www.promisedreams.co.uk

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computers, which is handy if you’re away and need to get access to something online. If you’re unsure about the safety of using an online password manager you can use one on your computer. This will mean you can’t access the passwords on another computer, but if this suits you as you may not wish to access information from elsewhere, then PasswordSafe is an excellent free example to use. Whichever way you decide to store your passwords, it is increasingly important to ensure they are complex and difficult to crack.

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12/04/2017 12:10

Carver

Wolverhampton Marathon Events

Plans are progressing for the 2017 Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events.

The charities they chose are Compton Hospice, Sunnyside Kennels Coven and Samaritans Wolverhampton. In addition the Marathon Charities always support the Mayoral Charity Fund.

This is a special year for us as it will be 20 years since the late Roy Carver reintroduced the marathon back to Wolverhampton. Things have moved on from then. The Marathon Events now include a Half Marathon, the Banks’s 10K, the Cousins Cycle Events, the Children’s Mini Marathon and the Call Print Walk in the Park.

Our loyal sponsors and their input play a big part in the success of this event and I thank them all, almost too many to mention.

As it is a special year the organisers will be giving a memento to each competitor together with a technical t shirt. The logistics of this event are vital and it takes a lot of volunteers to help keep the competitors safe and marshal around the course. The committee for this year reviewed the last 19 years and made their charity choices from those who “stood out” with their input, number of volunteers and enthusiasm.

As always there are numerous opportunities for volunteers to get involved and help with marshalling or one of the many other jobs that help with the smooth running of the event. So if anyone can spare some time to help please call Carvers or email Mary on mharding681@gmail.com. Entries are coming in daily and from July onwards race information and numbers will be posted out. As always the late entry desk will be open on Saturday 2rd September in West Park from 9.30 until 5.00pm.

For more details please visit our website:

www.carverwolverhamptonmarathonevents.co.uk 64

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Life Cycle

by Rob Taylor

Hugh arriving at the Palace to receive his MBE

their golden wedding anniversary. When they married in Huddersfield in 1965 news cameras were rolling.

Hugh receiving his Freedom of the City from the Mayor Councillor Mrs Christine Mills

Wolverhampton West sits down with Wolverhampton-born cycling legend Hugh Porter to discuss a career rich with success, both on and off two wheels. Today everybody is famous. Affordable technology has made good on Andy Warhol’s prescient words, making stars of us all and ushering in with it the cult of 66

Celebrity on an unprecedented scale. And yet conversely it seems, for those of us blessed with discerning and wit, there are fewer and fewer people genuinely worthy of status and fame. Hugh Porter is such an individual. Hugh is a four-time world individual pursuit cycling champion and has been for over 30 years’ BBC’s “voice of cycling”. He won Commonwealth Games gold in 1966 and is married to wife Anita, a former Olympic gold medallist in the 200m Breaststroke. Appropriately the couple have already celebrated

However, despite his innumerable sporting accolades and a lifetime spent in and around the spotlight, rubbing shoulders with the great and good, I find Hugh to be disarmingly modest and warm during my visit to his home in Tettenhall. Here is a man who measures achievement in the role he is able to play in supporting local sporting events and charities, which are dear to his heart. “I love being involved with events like the Round the Wrekin Sportive which supports Compton Hospice and runs again this year in May,” says Hugh. “I also sit on the Carver Marathon committee. My wife and I helped introduce the 20K family cycle ride which is now a regular at the event each year.” And it’s a ride Hugh is familiar with himself, as he’s taken part many times. In fact he still cycles locally, roughly three times a week, and

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

travels around the Shropshire lanes despite now being in his seventies. Of course Hugh is very proud of both his and Anita’s sporting success - his four world titles in the professional class over 5000m are a record - but he’s at pains not to thrust it in my face, never wanting to play ‘Mr VIP’. When I mention the tale of him riding through the gates of Buckingham Palace in 1973 fully decked out in his finest suit, on his way to collect his MBE from the Queen, he is characteristically unpretentious. Even Anita’s BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year trophy, which is sitting beside me, passes his notice. Instead he sparks at the mention of his Honorary Freeman of the City of Wolverhampton award, which he says is “very flattering”, and only smiles when asked about what it’s like driving down ‘Hugh Porter Way’ in Aldersley.

Hugh on the rostrum after winning his third World Professional Pursuit title in Marseille. Left Belgian Ferdinand Bracke and Dirk Baert also from Belgium

“I’m a proud Wulfrunian- a real local lad through and through. I was born in Parkfields, attended Dudley Road Junior School, before going to St. Peter’s,” continues Hugh, “I’ve travelled and worked all over the world but this is still home.” A semi-retired veteran broadcaster of eight consecutive summer Olympics - he has commentated on every gold medal winner in the modern era, up to and including London - Hugh remembers the early days at BBC Radio Birmingham (latterly BBC Radio WM).

Hugh and Chris Boardman in commentary box at the World Road Race Championships, for BBC TV

“It all really started off when Sports Editor Roger Moody offered me a minority sports segment. Then I went on to BBC TV. I love the spontaneity of it; calling each race is a real thrill.” When pushed to name a favourite moment his mind races to all the gold medallists but he highlights a couple, Chris Boardman’s gold in the 1992 games in Barcelona was Britain’s first for seventy-two years and Chris Hoy’s record sixth gold, Hugh’s last Olympic Velodrome commentary - however it’s clear that Hugh prefers to live in the here and now. “I still feel like I have a lot to give.” And we believe him. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Hugh with Sir Chris Hoy commentating at the Manchester Velodrome, for BBC TV

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Wolverhampton gets set for chart toppers in

free live event!

The stage is set and Enjoy Wolverhampton Live! is coming to the City Centre on Saturday June 3rd, a free event that will see chart toppers The Hoosiers, Toploader and more play live on an outdoor stage to a packed audience in Queen Square. The day-long event, organised by the Wolverhampton BID and funded by City Centre businesses, will give revellers an evening outdoor concert to remember from 6pm until 10pm. The entertainment will kick off with X-Factor star Lucy Spraggan followed by heartthrob Kevin Simm, the winner of last year’s BBC’s The Voice.

Top Loader

The penultimate act of the evening will see Brit Award nominees Toploader; relive the late 90’s and Noughties with hits like Dancing in the Moonlight, from their platinum selling album Onka’s Big Moka.

Kevin Simm

As dusk gives way to night time, the stars will well and truly come out to shine in Queen Square as The Hoosiers top the bill as the headline act. The English-American pop rock band, who’s hit’s include Goodbye Mr A, Cops & Robbers and I’m seriously worried about Ray; will delight the crowd with some of the biggest hits in recent years. This free event simply should not be missed!

Families will also be able to take advantage of an exciting daytime line-up of fun and entertainment. CBeebies favourite Swashbuckler’s Cook and Line will be bringing the laughs in a duo performance for the kids. Children’s entertainment and a fun puppet show will make it a family event to remember. Hosted by Dickie Dodd and the Signal 107 FM Roadshow, the family fun will be running from 12pm until 4pm. Enjoy Wolverhampton Live! Will be the second successive free annual summer event to be held in Queen Square. Building on the massive success of the 80s Fun Fest last year which attracted thousands to a family fun day with Mr

Hoosiers

Lucy Spraggen

Bloom and an Evening music concert featuring 80s stars including Sonia, T’Pau’s Carol Decker, Katrina of the Waves, Jacki Graham and Nathan Moore from Brother Beyond. BID Director Cherry Shine anticipates the event to be bigger and better than last year. Cherry said: “Last year 80s Fun Fest surpassed our expectations for a first event. The spectators and families were fantastic and the whole city centre was vibrant and excited to see a host of famous singers and TV personalities perform in a great outdoor setting. We have high hopes that this year Enjoy Wolverhampton

Live will bring the same buzz, excitement and draw the crowds into supporting the City Centre economy.” Spectators will be able to take advantage of those City businesses servicing the crowds with refreshing drinks from the tents and food stalls. As the fun in Queen Square ends at 10pm, there will be further chance to enjoy more of the cities evening entertainment with a wide selection of bars and restaurants still open. For more information on the days’ events and the performing artists, please visit www.enjoywolverhampton.com/wolverhamptonlive or follow their Facebook, Twitter or Instagram pages, search “EnjoyWolverhampton”.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Cook and Line

Walk the walk

and help make a dream come true Wolverhampton-based children’s charity Promise Dreams is absolutely delighted to be announcing the return of its biggest single fundraising event - Walk for Dreams 2017! You may well have heard the team on Signal’s 107 talking about this year’s event and seen the banner going up around the city! Sunday 16th July will see walkers, family and friends return to the grounds of Himley Hall in Dudley in their thousands to set off on a 9 mile walk to Wolverhampton Racecourse. The start time is 11am and on arrival, after registration, walkers will be given a warm up to ensure they’re ready for the off and a full-on party atmosphere awaits them at the Racecourse with music, bouncy castles, face painting, refreshments and, most importantly, somewhere to rest your weary feet. As in previous years entry to Walk for Dreams is totally free but walkers are encouraged to get sponsored or fundraise in whatever way they can as this will enable Promise Dreams to raise even more special smiles. There will also be “I walked the walk” t-shirts on sale

at both the start and finish venues for participants of the event. The team at Promise Dreams are hugely grateful to their key partners in this project who, through their generosity, will ensure that every penny raised from the walk will go directly to the families that the charity works to support. This money will make a real difference to some very special children and help to create memories that will be treasured for a lifetime. To sign up or find out more about Walk for Dreams simply visit www. walkfordreams.co.uk and complete

the online registration page. You can sign up individually or as a team so why not recruit as many of your friends and colleagues as you can and then see who can raise the most sponsorship. The website shows the different amounts in relation to different dream requests so you could even set yourselves a group target and know that you’ll be fulfilling a dream through all your hard work. For a small charity like Promise Dreams volunteer support at a big event like this is crucial so if you would like to help out on the day then you can also register on the same website to volunteer at this event. Promise Dreams is committed to helping seriously and terminally ill children and their families see their precious dreams become reality. Whether that dream is the chance to meet a celebrity, go to the theatre or simply to have access to medical equipment that will enhance each and every day of their lives. To find out more please visit www.promisedreams.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

promisedreams.co.uk Registered Charity No . 1086020

Join us for a with friends and family from Himley Hall to Wolverhampton Race Course and you can help to make a difference to seriously & terminally ill children.

Call : 01902 212451 Email : walk@promisedreams.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Visit : promisedreams.co.uk

Yo u r C h a n c e to W i n

a H a i r M a k e o v e r at Awa r d - W i n n i n g S a l o n

Olivia before

Olivia after

More Competition Success for Royston Blythe Royston, Nick and the team travelled to the luxury Titanic Hotel in Liverpool to support Jade Stephenson and Nicholas Tucker in the finals of the prestigious L’oreal Colour Trophy that was held in April.

unveiled as the North West Regional Winners. It was the second time that the duo had won the coveted award and once again their winning looks blew the judges away. And, there was even more cause for celebration, when Bethany Price and Lauren Jeavons from the Wolverhampton team were also announced as L’oréal Colour Trophy

It was a spectacular event and the entire team were keen to celebrate when Nick and Jade were

India before

India after

Midlands Regional Winners at a separate - yet equally spectacular - event that was also held in April at Villa Park Stadium. The winners were announced by one the UK’s most respected hairdressing icons, Queen Of Balayage Sophia Hilton. Nick, Jade, Bethany and Lauren have all secured their place in the Grand Final, that’s taking place in London at Battersea Evolution, on the 5th June. It’s one of the most prestigious evenings in the hairdressing world as the country’s top talent and industry icons are brought together under one roof. Royston Blythe are utterly delighted to once again have teams representing both salons at the event.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Winners from Wolverhampton salon, from left Lauren Jeavons and Bethany Price

Nick and Royston

Winners from Shrewsbury salon, 2nd left, Jade Stephenson and far right Nicholas Tucker

You Could Be a Winner Too!

If you’ve been dreaming of a new look, then here’s your opportunity to be in with a chance of winning a fantastic hair makeover - which includes Rapture Hair extensions - at the salon. Stylists to a long list of celebrities - including Real Housewives of Cheshire star, Dawn Ward – the Royston Blythe team are well-known for their fabulous hair transformations. Using Rapture Hair extensions - that are made of the finest quality human hair - the team have styled some amazing looks for their clients. The extensions take less than an hour to apply and

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

won’t damage your own hair, they’re incredibly natural looking and can be used to boost volume and add luscious lengths to hair. Of course, it’s not just hair extensions that will create an amazing new look for the lucky winner though, a full consultation, expert colour application, cut and blow-dry will ensure that the winner will look – and feel –amazing when they leave the salon. So, to be in with a chance of winning your dream hair look, simply answer the question below:

What brand of Hair Extensions do Royston Blythe use? Please email your answer to: info@ wolverhamptonwestmagazine.co.uk or on a postcard to: Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY. All entries to be received by Friday 16th June 2017. T&C’s: prize must be taken Tuesday to Thursday. By entering the competition you are agreeing that Royston Blythe and Wolverhampton West Magazine are able to use any images that are taken on the day for marketing and social media purposes. No cash or alternative prize. You must visit the salon 48 hours before your appointment for a skin test.

A member of the Guild of Q Butchers Quite simply, this means that Allan Bennett is one of the best butchers in Britain. Quality is our number one priority, and we are committed to preserving the skills passed down through generations of traditional craftsmen. At Allan Bennett’s we produce all our products using the best English meat, which is bought from Bridgnorth market every Tuesday. This means that all of our meat has full traceability, and guarantees you top quality meat from local farmers. In short, you can’t buy better!

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

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

96 Windmill Lane, Castlecroft, Wolverhampton WV3 8HG

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

Quality Butchers Tel: 01902 761693

www.poxonsbutchers.co.uk

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

We now have Staffordshire spring lambs in stock

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

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

K i n v e r

Country Fayre Celebrating Kinver 100 Years

S unday 18th June Kinver Country Fayre, back on its traditional Father’s Day date, has a special focus for 2017: Kinver 100 Years, celebrating the centenary of the National Trust’s ownership of Kinver Edge. The Fayre is one of the summer highlights in a whole year of celebrations by the National Trust, who will have a large presence at the event. “Our ‘100 years of transport’ parade that opens the Fayre will showcase the types of vehicles ordinary folk used to visit Kinver,” said Mark O’Neill, one of the organisers. “Each decade will be represented from 1917 to the present day. Vintage, veteran and classic cars, with many owners in costume, will join commercial vehicles, motor & pedal cycles and tractors in the parade. They will then be on display in the event fields.” Music will be taking visitors back to times gone by. The fabulous Bluebird Belles will be singing songs from the 1940s, while the music tent will also play host to popular rockabilly band

The Straight Aces, with sounds of the 1950s and 60s. There will be dance displays and even a wrestling show - a popular attraction back in the 1960s and now enjoying a revival. Skilled equestrian team The Cavalry of Heroes is the star attraction in the arena, performing thrilling stunts in a Cavalry through the Ages display that includes Roman warriors, medieval knights and Napoleonic soldiers, ending with a First World War tribute that ties into the 1917 centenary. Then there is the everpopular fun dog show, children’s fancy dress, falconry displays, Shire horses, pony rides, children’s attractions including animals from Dudley Zoo, bouncy castles, games and rides, scores of stalls and the real ale tent serving local brews from Kinver and Enville.

Photo courtesy of Purelight Photography

The Fayre provides a great day out for all the family. For discounted tickets buy online at: www.kinvercountryfayre.com National Trust members’ reduced entrance fee with membership cards on the gate. Contact us at: info@kinvercountryfayre.com Follow us @KinverFayre Like us @kinvercountryfayre

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Book Tickets and find out more at:

kinvercountryfayre.com

Eating Out, Entertainment, Food, Drink and Wedding Venues

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

*over a 2 month period

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Summer Events June

August

FATHER’S DAY

BLACK TIE & WHITE BALL

Sunday 18th June

Saturday 24th June

Sunday 20th August

Savoury afternoon tea, including a reception drink (ale or prosecco)

Join us for our annual ball, with drinks and canapés on arrival, a four course dinner and live entertainment.

Join us from 12pm – 4pm for our family afternoon event filled with tasty food, ice-cream and lots of fun entertainment. Entry is FREE so come along for some fun in the sun!

£24.50 per adult £15 per child*

£75.00 per person

Father’s Day lunch with all the trimmings, including a reception drink (ale or prosecco)

Book a table of 10 for £700.00

SUMMERTIME FAYRE

Formal black tie attire.

£24.50 per adult

*Aged 12 and under

The Drawing Room Bar and Grill is open to both residents and non-residents at The Mount Hotel, putting Wolverhampton back on the map as an exceptional dining experience. NEW à la carte Grill Menu and Wine List now available Lunch Menu Monday – Saturday (12:00 – 15:00) Sunday Lunch Menu (12:00 – 17:00)

Book your table now! 01902 752055

T: 01902 752055 E: sales@themount.co.uk W: www.themount.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

A busy s u m m e r a h e a d a t

Halfpenny Green Wi n e E s t a t e available to book, it really is the perfect destination for all appetites. Additionally, the restaurant hosts special A La Carte Evenings throughout the year, for a unique dining experience. Featuring a oneoff menu created specifically for each evening, it’s the perfect way to celebrate – or just to treat yourself! Upcoming dates include Friday 19th May, Friday 23rd June and Friday 15th September.

As more and more English wine is drunk by wine lovers both in the UK and abroad, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate in South Staffordshire are in for its busiest summer ever! Boasting a range of 14 still and sparkling wines, with vintages stocked by Marks and Spencer and Waitrose, the Wine Estate is truly riding an upward curve in 2017. If two of the UK’s biggest retailers don’t convince you, why not pop along to the on-site shop’s Wine Loft and try for yourself? In addition to the 14 wines, the Loft also boasts a range of over 50 artisan British gins, plus liqueurs, beers and ciders. The true connoisseurs can even book a wine or gin tasting with a member of the shop staff, and really sample the best the UK has to offer. To learn more about the wine, guided public tours are available (by booking only) for small groups through the summer months from May to October. Upcoming dates include Thursday 25th May, Thursday 29th June (both 6:30PM start) and Saturday 22nd July (12PM start). For larger parties, groups and societies, private guided tour packages are also available, as well as privately catered functions and meals. Enquire for further details.

Throughout the summer, the Wine Estate’s on-site Craft Centre – featuring 15+ bespoke businesses – will be bustling with activities and events, the perfect place to pick up a handmade gift. At the end of the Craft Centre lane lies WILD Zoological Park, a sprawling site filled with animals from all over the globe. With daily shows, feeding times and VIP packages available, there really is something for the whole family! The summer will be crowned by the Wine Estate’s Food and Wine Festival. Held for the first time in 2016, the day was a roaring success, and will return this year on Saturday 10th June. The day promises food and drink from suppliers locally and around the UK (not to mention Halfpenny Green’s own wine), as well as live music, a barbeque, and a bustling atmosphere. With free entry all day, there’s no excuse not to get involved! Halfpenny Green Wine Estate will be busier than ever this summer, so if you haven’t sampled some of the UK’s finest produce yet, there’s no better time to get involved! For booking and enquiries, contact the Wine Estate on 01384 221122 or enquiries@halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk.

www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk

For the foodies, the Wine Estate’s restaurant and tea rooms are the perfect destination, featuring a wide selection of freshly cooked traditional and modern meals, created by the team of chefs, from only the freshest local ingredients – and even the site’s own wine! With tea, cake, and vintage high teas 78

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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

AWARD-WINNING ENGLISH WINES

LOCAL PRODUCE SHOP & DELI

RENOWNED RESTAURANT & TEA ROOMS

U P COM I NG E V E N TS

à la carte evening

food & wine festival

Friday 19th May

Saturday 10th June

public tours

(by booking only) Thursday 25th May Thursday 29th June Saturday 22nd July

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The Oakley Arms Brewood

Welcome to The Oakley Arms Sitting on the outskirts of Brewood, our pub is well within the hearts of locals who drop by on horseback, bicycle or with their dogs during countryside rambles. We are lucky enough to have the most fabulous lake, which can be seen from many of the pub’s rooms; and is flanked by our stone terrace which is the most wonderful place to dine on sunny days. We like to think of ourselves as a charming pub with well-spaced rooms, wooden floors and roaring fires; as well as a well-stocked bar at the centre of all things and a beautiful garden room filled with light. We hope to see you soon. Tel: 01902 859 800 • www.oakleyarms.co.uk Kiddemore Green Lane, Brewood, ST19 9BQ Email: oakley@brunningandprice.co.uk

Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

Fully licensed

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

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

Restaurant of the year West Midlands region 2016

“We pride ourselves on our Quality of Food, Excellent Customer Service and Customer Satisfaction.” Recently refurbished in contemporary surroundings, air conditioned and fully licensed.

Open 7 days including Bank Holidays 5.30pm until 11.30pm

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

Tel: 01902 324148 / 324437 High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DN 80

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

www.wombournetandoori.com wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Fathers Day Sunday 18th June 2017 Enjoy pitchside views from The Hayward Suite or Sir Jack’s Restaurant while dining, plus a special gift for all Dads! A Father’s Day he won’t forget.

Hayward Suite Carvery: Adults £24.25 Children £12.65

Sir Jacks Restaurant: Adults £26.50 Children £12.90

0871 222 2220 (option 5) candb@wolves.co.uk corporatewolves.co.uk

The Park house hoTel Shifnal www.parkhousehotel.net

2 for 1 on Sunday Lunch including Fathers Day Sunday 18th June 2017 Book a table in our restaurant for a traditional 3 course Sunday Lunch for only £24.95 and receive another course 3 course lunch FREE* *Valid until December 31st 2017. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Not valid for private dining or for bookings of more than 6 people. Valid only when 3 courses are purchased.

Afternoon Tea Party with

Sunday, 25th June 12-2pm

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

The Cowshed - PaTTingham

Win a meal for tWo

To celebrate our 7th year of publishing the magazine we have teamed up with The Cowshed to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a superb 3 course meal for 2 including a bottle of selected wine. Set in the backdrop of the beautiful South Staffordshire countryside, the family-run Cowshed restaurant is a charming little barn conversion, nestled away within a quaint farmhouse courtyard at the heart of Pattingham. The Cowshed prides itself on rustling up the very finest of traditional British-farmed food, cooked fresh to order and with a modern twist. Every dish is made with a pinch of finesse, a splash of innovation and a big dollop of seasonal charm.

mustard mash and creamed savoy cabbage, finished with a sweet sticky cider reduction; and last but not least, a selection of prime cut steaks, cooked to preference and served with bespoke sauces. These are just some of the delights on offer this summer. Whatever your culinary persuasion, The Cowshed offers a taste sensation fit for every palate and promises you and your loved ones a truly delicious experience.

Favourite light bites include pan-seared black pearl scallops presented on a bed of crispy ginger beer-braised pork belly and a serving of butternut squash puree; garlic mushrooms served on toasted brioche, topped with green leaves and parmesan shavings; and chilli infused tiger prawns served in garlic butter and a side of warm baked ciabatta. For mains, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fillet Rossini, served with homemade chicken liver parfait and chunky hand-cut chips, topped with a rich madeira sauce; parma ham wrapped monkfish with king prawns prepared in lime, accompanied by The Cowshedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature chips and a delicious homemade garlic mayonnaise; beerbraised pork belly, complimented with wholegrain

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

In which county is the Cowshed located? Email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk or on a postcard to: Wolverhampton West Magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY. All entries to be received by Friday 26th May 2017. Competition Terms and Conditions -Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and informed by telephone. To enter you must be aged 18 years or older. No cash or alternative prize will be given. Prize valid Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday inclusive and booking date will be subject to availability. Prize to be redeemed by Thursday 22nd June 2017, all entries will be forwarded to The Cowshed unless requested otherwise.

wolverhampton wolverhampton west west magazine magazine || may may 2017

Clive Farm, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7DU

For a meal to remember!

Special Offer

20% Off*

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

Your total bill When you presen t this advert

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

Opening Times

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

For bookings please telephone: 01902 701888 Cowshed Pattingham

@TheCowshed1 thecowshedpattingham www.thecowshedrestaurant.co.uk

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

By Rob Taylor

The Oakley Arms, Brewood As any hungry traveller will tell you first impressions count. Get it right as a pub and you’ll draw in people in droves – a dab of kerb appeal, a dash of plentiful parking and a smorgasbord of affordable culinary choice is always a winning trio. Boasting all of the above in spades, The Oakley Arms in Brewood sends road-weary would-be diners careering off Kiddemore Green Road on a regular basis. And once they’ve eaten inside they return again and again and I can tell you why. Arriving just after dusk on a dry Wednesday evening, my partner Nicola and I are immediately lured towards the pub’s twinkling lights, which stand out like the bioluminescent algae off the coast of Tasmania. We’re right on the fringe of the ancient Roman village of Brewood and darkness out here falls quickly. Best get inside quick, I think, before the spectre of a lost Centurion taps his cadaverous finger on my shoulder to ask the quickest way to Watling Street.

If there are ghosts in this place then they are more likely to be holding a guitar than a Gladius. The building – which was all but razed to the ground in 2015, when the former country club was deliberately set ablaze by arsonists, before being painstakingly restored to become the latest in Brunning and Price’s spectacular chain of pub restaurants – has a history stretching back to the mid-nineteenth century. It is its intervening years when it played host to myriad rock stars – like George Harrison, Noddy Holder and Deep Purple – that most capture my imagination. As for Nicola, she’s transfixed by the extensive gardens and lake, which provide a remarkable setting for Al fresco dining – especially, according to Assistant Manager Bethany Cummings, on a late summer evening. Inside is just as impressive. There’s real warmth to the ‘posh-rustic’ décor. In the bar there is much space, but also character and charm. We are seated quickly and order drinks. The restaurant is an open-plan dining space and tonight it is very busy; there’s much hustle and bustle around us and yet because we are ensconced in the corner, away from the grandiosity

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

arrive. Most deserving of praise is the picked radish, which enlivens the saline salmon enormously. Next arrives a ‘10oz rump steak with Dijon and tarragon butter, portobello mushrooms, tomato and chips’ (£18.95) for me to get stuck into and for my long-suffering companion, ‘Cumin and chilli spiced chicken with tzatziki salad and roast sweet potato’ (£14.50). Now I’m happy to admit that I’m about as familiar with a ‘tzatziki salad’ as Basil Fawlty is with a Waldorf salad, but we’ll gloss over that. After all, I didn’t eat it and Nicola seems as ebullient and happy as she’s been since the starter, so the Oakley is definitely doing something right. of a dazzling chandelier that hangs above a massive Arthurian table, we both feel a relaxed intimacy. It is testament to the quality and level of interest shown by the waiting staff on duty tonight that, before our drinks have even arrived, we are asked twice again if we’d like to order drinks. One prestarter ‘Bellini’ each – a delightful mix of peach puree topped up with Prosecco (£5.95) – soon follows. Thereafter comes my choice from the healthy-sized menu: ‘Pan fried scallops with pineapple, mint and chilli salsa with ham hock fritters’ (£10.75) and Nicola’s ‘Smoked salmon with pickled radishes, horseradish and lemon crème-fraiche’ (£7.25). Both parcels of food arrive swiftly and are exquisitely presented. This is a world away from mere ‘pub grub’; already it’s clear that the Oakley has in Lee Walley, a fine and skilful head chef and a well-oiled kitchen team. My plate has a well-judged harmony of flavour and a balance that really benefits from the pineapple in a way I hadn’t expected. And the salsa punches harder than Mr Punch on steroids. The salmon arrests Nicola’s taste buds, tantalises her palate and leads her to eulogise about not a lot else until the mains

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Instead I stick to what is bread and butter fare for any pub worth its salt: steak and chips – this time with a side order of ‘Peppercorn sauce’ (£1.95). The steak is tender for Rump and it’s cooked precisely to my exacting specifications, which stop just short of me writing reams of notes for “Chef’s Eyes Only”. Never ever have I tasted such a satisfying sauce. The pillow-soft, hand-fashioned chips prove to be a big success on both sides of the table, as inevitably Nicky has to nick the occasional one. ‘Crème brûlée with shortbread biscuits’ (£5.50) rounds things off for me and a ‘Hot waffle with toffee apples and honeycomb ice cream’ (£5.75) does so for Nicola. Each dessert provides us with enough sugary sensations to keep us up and jumping long into the small hours. And just like so many visitors before us, we’ll be coming back to The Oakley Arms very soon to get our next fix.

The Oakley Arms, Kiddemore Green Road, Brewood ST19 9BQ. For table reservations please call 01902 859800 or visit www.oakleyarms.co.uk.

THE SHREWSBURY ARMS Are you yet to pay a visit to The Shrewsbury Arms!? Then let us give you an insight into what we have to offer... With our NEW and improved Beer Garden being a success, it would be rude for us not to share what we’ve got going on… We have our full Main Menu running 12 noon until 10pm, 7 days a week. However, if you fancy more of a light lunch, our Mid-Week Fixed Price Lunch Menu is available from Monday to Friday 12pm until 5pm... With 2 courses for £10.95 and 3 courses for £13.95! Maybe you are you a Steak Fan!? Do you enjoy the finest cut of meat with that succulent mouthwatering taste? Then this may be of interest to you… We have recently introduced our NEW and improved Steak Night Menu which is available every Thursday Evening from 6pm onwards alongside our Main Menu, so there is always something for everyone! Friday’s at the Shrewsbury Arms sees a twist on the British “Fish Fridays”, bringing you our “Fish & Fizz” menu. With the finest fish available, being driven directly from Brixham harbour that very same morning… the ‘taste of the sea’ is brought to your doorstep, along with great discounts on Prosecco and Champagne, it’s a great way to start the weekend.

And that’s not all! Do you like a good night out? It’s got to be a ‘yes’ hasn’t it? With a great atmosphere and drinks flowing? Well every Friday and Saturday evening we have Live Music from 9pm onwards! With NEW faces being added every month. So if you want a great atmosphere, live music and multiple cocktails… look no further! 86

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

What’s On… Sunday 28th May

May Bank Holiday Weekend Sunday 11th June

Air Show Day Saturday 8th July

Albrighton Fayre Day Sunday 27th August

Beach Party

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Why not relax in our NEW and improved beer garden and sample our Gin, Cocktail & ‘Pimp your Prosecco Tent’ with Live Music outside from 2pm. With Music and a great atmosphere, why not join us from 2pm for the BEST SEAT in town and sample our very famous flatbreads outside in the garden from 2pm onwards on Air Show Day. We are going to be hosting the AFTER PARTY. Live Music and a DJ from 9pm onwards, Gin, Cocktails and Prosecco served in our garden and flat breads baked in our woodfire pizza oven! Join us for the very first British Summer beach Party! With Music from 2pm, we will be sure to bring the Beach feeling to you!

Sir Jack’s

Restaurant,

Molineux

I soon find that my pleas to the driver to deliver me to the ‘Visitors’ side of the stadium in the Steve Bull stand, just for dramatic effect, have been vetoed by my partner Gisella. Instead we, along with friends Alan and Louise, enter the Billy Wright Stand and are shown into Billy’s Boot Room – an intimate facility that can accommodate up to 32 guests, with its own bar facility. Here we all enjoy a glass of Prosecco and an Amuse of Irish Stew, before being led into Sir Jack’s Restaurant. At this point I must confess there is just the slightest trace of visiting team hostility bubbling away inside me. Of course they’ll be no spat between me and my party (they are all Wolves fans) akin to the fracas in 1999 between Keith Curle and Jason Van Blerk, but I am resolved not to be a pushover, no matter how good the service or how fine the food.

By Geoff Hall Today, I’m in the Lions’ Den. Like Daniel before me, I’ve dropped into what is on face value, for any West Bromwich Albion football fan at least, a very uncomfortable spot: Molineux Stadium.

Home of Wolverhampton Wanderers FC for over a hundred years, Molineux is a monument to my favourite team’s biggest local rival: voted in a Football Pools survey in 2008 as the fiercest rivalry in English football, there has been over 120 local derby games between the two clubs since their first ever clash in the FA Cup and every one of them has been momentous. The Baggies lead the current headto-head standings, by the way… We arrive in chauffeur-driven opulence, which is provided by Image Luxury Travel, and

Happily at least the restaurant is not decorated with football memorabilia documenting over a century of sporting history and success, often at the expense of my beloved Albion. It is instead a smart, modern and welcoming dining space, which boasts spectacular pitch-facing views. This evening is a St Patrick’s Daythemed gourmet night. Running once a month, every month, these gourmet events enable diners to feast on flavours from around the world, and each course is served with complimentary wines and liqueurs. This aspect is especially appropriate tonight, I think, as I soak up the

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

accompanied with La Fonda Cabernet Carmenere, which is a medium bodied wine full of fruit. Lamb is sometimes a difficult dish to cook to a high standard. Only top-notch product allied to serious culinary flair can assist in building flavours this good: I could eulogise about this dish for well over 90 minutes but already the final whistle approaches.

Head Chef Richard Paul with Restaurant Manager Matthew Hunter

intricate table dressings, which include a big hat and serviettes folded up like 4 leaf clovers. There’s a palpable buzz inside the spacious room that makes for a fantastic atmosphere for the 50 diners to gorge upon until the food arrives. Soon it’s clear that we are poised for a thoroughly enjoyable evening with unequalled standards of service. Suffice it to say that since Sir Jack’s uses only the finest, freshest ingredients in their cuisine which is aiming for AA Rosette accreditation (Gisella: “That food is so good, I’m surprised they’ve not been recognised already!”) and that when Head Chef Richard Paul and his staff pop out from the kitchen they receive a standing ovation, my party is blown away – more convincingly than when in 2012 Albion mauled Wolves 5-1 in a defeat that signalled the end of Mick McCarthy’s six-year reign. Of course, as I said, I’ll take more convincing.

Every course is announced and explained by Restaurant Manager, Mathew Hunter, along with the drink it is served with. This is a nice touch that provides a level of enlightenment for the uninitiated. With so much food for the four of us there’s just too much to relate here, so here is, in tried and tested Match of the Day style, the highlights: ‘Honey and Cider Glazed Bacon, Baby Leek, Celeriac, Bulls Blood Chard’, accompanied with Pinot Grigio Principato Blush, which is a salmon-pink coloured juicy berry wine with good acidity and an off dry finish. What a delicate, flavoursome effort this dish is: brimming with tang and taste. Bringing home enough bacon each month to be able to dine at Sir Jack’s on food as good as this is well worth the long hours. I must commend also: ‘Herb Crusted Rump of Lamb, Desiree Mash, Spring Cabbage, Rosemary Infused Carrot’,

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Another stand out player is the ‘Pot of Gold’ cocktail, made by a mixologist, comprising Magners, Archers, vodka and pineapple. Two more of these and a splash of Late Bottle Vintage port and I can feel my lifelong allegiances beginning to waver. In short, we all agree, every dish is delicious and by the end of the evening we are all suitably stuffed. And whether for the footie or not, we’ll all be coming back. It looks like Sir Jack’s is yet again responsible for another win for Wolves. The restaurant is open Thursday, Friday, Saturday evenings and Sunday lunchtime. Private suites are available for parties/ special occasions, any day of the week. For details or to book a table for the next themed gourmet evening please contact: Sir Jack’s Restaurant, Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club, Molineux Stadium, Waterloo Road, Wolverhampton, WV1 4QR. Telephone 0871 222 2225.

www.sirjacksrestaurant.co.uk

Registered Charity No. 512387

The Compton Colour Blast 5K is set to return – and 2017 guarantees to be more colourful than ever! This year we’ll be hosting two events across two consecutive days. Taking place on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd July 2017 at East Park participants will embark on a 5k route whilst being blasted with colourful powdered paint. Each participant will receive a Colour Blast pack featuring sponsor forms, race number and a commemorative Colour Blast 5K t-shirt. On the day you’ll also be given a pair of stylish sunglasses and a complimentary colour packet to use in the colour blast arena. Registration costs £30pp or £35pp on the day. Under 5’s go FREE. The event is open to all ages but under 16’s must be accompanied by a participating parent or guardian. To register visit https://tinyurl.com/prlyy8p or complete and return the entry form over the page.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Compton Hospice Colour Blast 5K Saturday 1st OR Sunday 2nd July 2017 (must be over 16)

PLEASE FILL IN CAPITAL LETTERS Name of Lead participant ……………………………………….D.O.B………………… T-Shirt Size XS S M L XL

Address ………………………………………………………………….…………..……………….. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………. ……………………………………….……………………………Postcode………………..……..... Tel no. (Day)………………………………..…….(mobile)……………………………...…..….…. Email address…………………………………………………………………………………..….…

Date you wish to participate on: Saturday 1 Names of other participants

Sunday 2nd (required for insurance purposes)

1. ……………………………………………………….……D.O.B if under 16 .………………..…..

T-Shirt Size

XS S

M L

2. ……………………………………………………………D.O.B if under 16 ……….…………….

T-Shirt Size

M L

3. …………………………………………………………… D.O.B if under 16 ……………..……..

T-Shirt Size

M L

4. …………………………………………………………… D.O.B if under 16 ……………..……..

T-Shirt Size

M L

Full terms and conditions can be found at https://tinyurl.com/lc8fkpa

DECLARATION ** I understand that single and group photographs may be taken of myself and my group at Compton Hospice events and I am happy for any photographs to be used for Compton Hospice marketing and future publications** ** I understand that as lead participant I am over 16 and will be responsible for collecting all sponsorship money from my group and returning it to Compton Hospice** ** On behalf of my group I accept the terms and conditions of this event **

I enclose payment of …………………… Signed by lead participant ……………………………………………

Please return your entry form and payment to: Fundraising Department, Compton Hospice, The Cedars, 39 Compton Road West, Wolverhampton, WV3 9DW www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Sponsored by

St. Chad’s School

My name is Victoria Attwood and I have embarked on a mission with another Mother, Dimple O’Gorman to help raise £10,000 for our children’s school St.Chad’s in Pattingham. Last year the school started a mile a day challenge. Children and staff would walk, jog or run at least 8 laps of the field each afternoon to keep fit and healthy. Since October they have not been able to get out onto the field as the mud was being transferred all over the school. We hope to raise money to fund a rubberised

all-weather track for the perimeter of the field so that the children can get back to their daily mile challenge. As well as helping the school, the track would benefit the local community enabling cycle classes, balance bike training and the local running club. The children have missed the opportunity to exercise with their friends and would like to get running again. If you would like to make a donation online please go to www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding and type in the search space Victoria Attwood.

First class travel Perton and Bridgnorth Travel is a well-established Executive Travel company which has been expanding considerably over the last few years. The company ethos is to provide the best possible experience for our clients. We provide excellent quality vehicles and drivers for any journey. We currently use a Range Rover for more luxurious travel, and this year invested in another Mercedes Viano. We now have three drivers to satisfy customer demand, who all give the same level of courtesy, punctuality, reliability and service. We cover any airport, seaport, wedding venue, concerts and shopping trips, along with all 92

corporate, sporting and social events. Our client base is made up of many regular customers, but we always welcome new customers. We will continue to expand our company, making it the number one provider of this service in the area. We currently have bookings all the way through to February 2018 so please do not hesitate to contact us with your enquiries and bookings and please like our Facebook page Perton and Bridgnorth Travel for more information.

Part-Time Beauty Therapist Wanted Could you be what Simply Beautiful is looking for? We are looking for a Beauty Therapist with good experience, motivation and passion for working within the beauty industry. Somebody who is willing to work hard and meet our high standards. Being a part of the Simply Beautiful team is a fantastic opportunity to be trained by a highly qualified beauty therapist, who has over 20 years of experience to help guide you through this exciting opportunity within the beauty world.

Email your CV to Samantha at: samanthacox69@hotmail.com Alternatively pop into the salon with your CV. Tel: 01902 762387 Simply Beautiful, Finchfield Lane, Merry Hill, Wolverhampton, WV3 8EE

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

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

Mobile: 07807 123688

email: enquiries@perton-bridgnorth-travel.com

www.perton-bridgnorth-travel.com wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Give yourself a boost with IntraVita IV Vitamin Drips at

Cosmetique

Penn-based aesthetic clinic, Cosmetique, has recently introduced an exciting new treatment that promises to help you combat those nagging day-to-day health issues, providing you with the boost you need to look and feel fabulous.

“Everybody is unique and so are their nutrient requirements, that’s why there are so many different treatment options for IV therapy depending on your individual goals and needs.”

As Director, Suky Chana, explains:

“The IV infusions take 15 – 60 minutes and many patients begin to feel the effects straight away, which continue over the following hours and days.”

Following a consultation with one of Cosmetique’s medical practitioners, a personalised formulation is prepared for the client, that’s been designed to address their nutrient requirements and health needs.

“If you’re fed up with dull skin, carrying excess weight and sick and tired of being sick and tired, then our new IntraVita IV Vitamin Drips will be perfect for you.”

It doesn’t take long to feel refreshed, re-energised and revitalised. “The therapy is much more effective than oral vitamins as the active ingredients enter the bloodstream directly, allowing the body to better absorb and utilise the nutrients.”

Vitamin infusions have become the secret weapon of tired or burntout celebrities, with the likes of Brad Pitt, Madonna, Simon Cowell and Rhianna becoming fans.

The infusions can be used as an adjunct in any condition where low levels of nutrients or deficiencies are suspected.

And now, everyone can experience the benefits provided by IV nutrition at Cosmetique.

“In addition to immune support, anti-ageing, energy enhancement, improved athletic performance and general wellbeing, the treatment is also beneficial for allergies, depression, hormone balance, migraines, chronic fatigue, inflammation, GI conditions and many other issues.” Cosmetique is the only clinic in the Black Country to offer the therapy.

So, to start feeling better today, contact the team on 01902 334181.

IntraVita IV Vitamin Drips Special Offer £205 now £150* *available throughout May and June 2017.

570 Penn Road Penn Wolverhampton WV4 4HU

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

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

Special offer until end of June £150 Now £49 • • • • • •

Laser Hair Removal IPL Pigmentation Scars, Blemishes Stretch Marks Collagen Enhancement Vitamin Infusion (vitamin boost injections)

• • • • • •

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

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

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

Spring - Summer 2017

New Collections now on board! Aristocats aim to provide excellent customer service to women who appreciate quality fashion. Whatever the event our stylish Spring/Summer designs will take individuals effortlessly to a wide range of functions, casual or formal, daytime, weddings, after six, cocktail or late evening. Our professional staff are always on hand, if required, to help with decision making and offer alternatives to customers from the West Midlands, Shropshire and further afield from the wide range of fashion designers.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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

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

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

Stunning Summer Style At

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Turn Back the Clock “Fabulous hair is essential for creating a youthful look. If you want to turn back the clock then secret hair extensions – that boost volume and style – cleverly cut hairstyles and complexionboosting colours will help you to look and feel amazing.”

Special Occasion Style

Whatever you’ve got planned this summer, you can be sure that your hair will look amazing thanks to the awardwinning team at Royston Blythe. Here’s Nick Malenko’s guide to fabulous summer style:

Summer: The Look “Effortless, undone hair is the look this summer. Whatever your age and whatever your length and colour, the trick to making an enviable summer style statement is to forget over-styled, structured hair and opt for a show-stopping, barely done finish with an incredibly healthy sheen. “There’s something charming about undone styling and soft, super-feminine, flowing tresses that really complement

summer fashions, like pretty prints and girly dresses, too.”

Get the Gloss

“The summer is all about special occasions. Whether you’ve been invited to a wedding or a glitzy bash, you’ll want to impress with a stunning style. Take inspiration from the red carpet and ask your stylist to tailor the look to suit you and your outfit. “After all, head-turning hair is essential for making you look – and feel – fabulous.”

“When it comes to hair, the current status symbol is ultra-hydrated, oh-so-glossy locks that exude health and vibrancy. To get the look, opt for an in-salon treatment - like our favourite, Fusio Dose by Kerastase - and maintain a dedicated at-home hair care plan. “If you’re jetting off to warmer climes, don’t forget to protect your hair with a selection of quality products that’ll help to combat the damaging effects of sunshine, chlorine and salt water. “If you struggle with unruly, rebellious and frizzy hair then a Kerastraight treatment will be just what you need to tame your mane. Designed to transform dry, frizzy locks into manageable, low-maintenance lengths, the semi-permanent blow-dry system has wowed our clients at the salon, with many commenting that it’s actually transformed their life.”

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

s k i n

t r e a t m e n t s

Time to bee flawless PURE & SIMPLE Wake up like you’re in your Make up. Become absolutely flawless with the revolutionary, naturalchemical peel facial that blurs, not only the marks and lines on your skin but also the lines between cosmetology and natural skincare. Delivering never before-seen results to treat fine lines and wrinkles, Hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tones. BeePeel™ contains the Heaven Skincare patented ingredient *ABEETOXIN®, coconut oil, raw cane sugar and apple pectin to gently, but effectively, dissolve away skin imperfections. It reduces dark pigmentation, evens out skin tones and, due to the inclusion of ABEETOXIN®, relaxes lines and has a plumping effect on the skin, leaving your face looking bright, refined and dewy! And all without the downtime associated with regular chemical peels. This facial is for all skin types, including sensitive, for an immediate, perfecting effect. “Facial skin is constantly exposed to UVA and UVB light, which can cause an increase in localised melanin production, which causes hyper-pigmentation. Pigmentation is the single most ageing skin concern, much more so than fine lines or wrinkles, and although, prevention is the key to pigmentation by using facial SPF’s like my Silk Skin Bee-Bee creams, when the damage has already been done, my brand-new treatmentproduct, BeePeel™, will help to repair the damage and rejuvenate the skin,” Deborah clarifies. Heaven Skincare uses natural ingredients to remedy the stress experienced by your skin, safely and effectively. The BeePeel™ stand alone treatment is just 30 minutes long, for busy, time-poor, fast paced people who are looking to achieve medi-spa results quickly and definitely. The BeePeel™ can also be added to existing Heaven facials, for intensified results. *ABEETOXIN® is the patented Heaven Skincare ingredient created using bee venom. But, no bees are harmed collecting the venom for our formula; bees are stimulated safely for venom and these bees have been noted to yield more honey than their non-stimulated counterparts. Win, win, bee-autiful skin, safe bees and more honey production.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Summer

Beauty Essentials Before you step into the sunshine make sure that you’re ready with our essential summer beauty guide. Get a Glow If you want to swap pale skin for a golden glow in an instant, then reach for the fake tan or book in at the salon for a spray tan. Just remember, preparation is key to achieving the best results, so make sure that your skin is

thoroughly exfoliated and moisturised beforehand.

Minimal Make-Up A glowing sun-kissed complexion is a must for summer, so to get the look switch heavy foundation for a light tinted moisturiser that’ll provide a hint of colour and offer just enough coverage to hide any flaws. When it comes to eye make-up, keep it simple with just a sweep of mascara. Finish with a light dusting of bronzing powder on your face – and body – and a pop of colour on your lips.

Heavenly Hair Make sure that your hair is set for summer by following a dedicated hair care routine. Regular trims, conditioning treatments – both in-salon and at home – will make sure that your hair will stand-up to the soaring temperatures. When it comes to styling, don’t bother. Keep hair looking as natural as possible and opt for an undone, laid-back look.

Sandal-Ready Feet Before you even contemplate stepping into your sandals make sure that your feet have been treated to some serious pampering.

Image courtesy of New Look Beauty

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Whether you book in for a pedicure at the salon or decide to do it yourself at home, give your feet a summer makeover. Soft callous-free skin and painted nails are sandal-essentials. wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

www.taylorbiddleopticians.co.uk

Designer Frames fromâ&#x20AC;Ś

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

SPECIAL OFFER

Up to 80% off second pair of varifocal, occupational or sports lenses with every purchase of premium varifocals. (T & C apply, offer ends 31/05/17.)

39 Bridgnorth Road, Compton Tel: 01902 750 325

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

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Spa Find at

Simply Beautiful

Finding a professional and affordable salon skincare range isn’t easy but the team at Simply Beautiful have discovered the perfect collection for their clients.

perfect for all skin types - including sensitive and problematic.”

As salon owner, Samantha Preece explains:

Almost every skin condition is caused in part by a vitamin or mineral imbalance within the body and Spa Find’s products serve to normalise and bring inner health back into balance.

“When I opened the salon 10 years ago I decided to use Thalgo as my main skincare range. Although my clients loved the treatments it was costly to maintain the routine at home.”

“The wide range of luxurious treatments utilise the natural power of mud, salt and seaweed to tone and firm the face and body, ease muscle tension and deeply relax the body and mind.”

Samantha realised that she needed to find a quality professional brand, to offer alongside Thalgo that would be more affordable.

Treatments include facials, mud wraps, salt scrubs, slimming treatments and the amazing Spa Find Heaven Hot Poultice treatment which offers an hour and a half of pure relaxation.

“After a lot of research I came across Spa Find, which is similar to Thalgo in that it uses properties from the sea. I absolutely love the range because it’s full of healing Dead Sea minerals that are

And, Samantha also offers something special for her youngest clients too:

“We’ve recently started doing kids’ pamper parties on a Saturday afternoon, which are really popular. We decorate the salon in girlie pink and the package we offer includes a mini manicure with diamante, bubbly foot soak with foot rub and a glitter tattoo. The party girl receives a group photo too,” adds Samantha.

Despite Spa Find being the salon’s primary range, the salon still provides many Thalgo treatments.

Whichever treatment you book, you can

be sure that you’ll have a great experience at Simply Beautiful salon.

Salon owner, Samantha Preece

• Spa Find and Thalgo beauty treatments & massages • St Tropez Bronzing • Eye Lash/Brow treatments • OPI Gel Polish • Manicure and Pedicure • Waxing • CACI

20% OFF Spa Find Heaven Hot Poultice Treatment £60 now £48*

*Offer valid when you mention advert at time of booking until end of June 2017. One voucher per person, no photocopies, and not to be used in conjunction with any other offers.

CHILDREN’S PAMPER PARTIES NOW AVAILABLE – CALL FOR DETAILS

Finchfield Lane, Merry Hill, Wolverhampton, WV3 8EE

simplybeautiful2007

To book please call (01902) 762387 www.simplybeautifulwolverhampton.co.uk Open Tues 9am-5pm, Wed & Thurs 10am til late, Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-3pm, Mon Closed.

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wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Treating Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are very common and affect more than one in three adults. Often hereditary in cause, they occur because the valves of your veins weaken and fail to work effectively. The National Institute for Care Excellence (NICE) now advises minimally invasive surgery under local anaesthetic, where patients can walk in and walk out within a couple of hours and quickly return to driving and normal activities.

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

of course, to ease any suffering. With local anaesthetic and short treatment time, recovery is quick and there is minimal bruising, scarring or swelling, so you can both look and feel better sooner.” When the sun comes out, people who have been putting off surgery may feel inclined to find out more about available treatments for their blue lumpy veins. Sadly for patients the NHS no longer offers treatment for the majority of patients.

During a consultation, an ultrasound scan will detect the source of the problem and from the size and position, indicate the required treatment. Recognised by all major Medical Insurers. For self paying patients, the consultation fee is £150 and an ultrasound of both legs is £99.

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

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

Before Procedure

Post Procedure

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

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

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

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Summer Dressing

Print Dress £119 Monsoon

By Helen Taylor Keeping cool and looking stylish is easy this season once you’ve found the perfect summer dress. Whether you favour mini, midi or maxi styles, there’s nothing more practical than one of the high street’s pretty printed designs that can be easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion. So, whether you’re enjoying the summer at home or abroad, make sure that you hit the shops and treat yourself to something new. Here are our favourite headturning summer dresses:

Tunic Dress £59 Monsoon

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Flare Dress £79 Monsoon

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Print Wrap Dress £45 Miss Selfridge

Pink Floral Mini Dress £22.99 New Look

Embroidered Dress £38 Next Red Print Dress £49 River Island

Print Dress £59 RJR John Rocha at Debenhams

Yellow Floral Print Cold Shoulder Midi Dress £27.99 New Look

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Dress £45 Topshop

Blue Embroidered Bardot Dress £27.99 New Look

Side Split Pink Maxi Dress £19.99 New Look 105

Amazing results with Nioxin at Hair loss can be extremely distressing for both men and women, and many of us suffer from it at some point in our lives. Whether the cause is stress, trauma, medication - like chemotherapy, hormone fluctuations after pregnancy, dietary, environmental or genetic factors, Salon 27 can help. “Nioxin is the number one selling brand for thinning hair and offers clients incredible results, whatever the cause of their hair loss,” explains salon owner, Jodie Mason. And 70% of Nioxin users notice thicker, denser hair in just four weeks. “We give our clients an in-depth consultation and prescribe the best Nioxin treatment for them.”

The products are tailored to meet individual needs and the salon has recently introduced Nixon’s new 3D Styling range. “We went on an in-depth training course when the styling range was launched and we were absolutely blown away by the products - they reduce hair loss and breakage and amplify hair for thicker, fuller results.” Clients can book in for Nioxin treatments at the salon and purchase the products to use at home too. “We sell a three step trial kit for £29.99 that client’s can use at home and if they’re not satisfied after 30 days, Nioxin offer a full money back guarantee.” There’s something new from Wella at the salon too: “Wella’s ‘EIMI Shape Me’ Memory Hair Gel is amazing. The heatactivated gel is formulated with a

memorising polymer complex which helps to shape or blow-dry hair the way you want. It holds the look for up to 48 hours,” adds Jodie. Whether you want to address thinning hair, treat yourself to a new look or find the products that are perfect for you, book in at Salon 27 today.

Special offer for all new clients

CUT & FINISH ONLY £20 May offer

3 For 2 Salon 27 are a unisex salon and have a monthly offer throughout the year, even one for the kids! Half price colour To book an appointment please call on: every Wed & Thurs with selected stylists. Kids cut offer every www.salon27wolverhampton.co.uk Monday 3pm-5pm Find us on Facebook: Salon 27 unisex hairsalon. 65 Wakeley Hill, Penn, Wolverhampton, WV4 5BA

(01902) 836565

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ON ALL STYLING PRODUCTS June offer

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

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Why join a Gym... when you can join a Revolution?

At Chris Jewkes Fitness we are true gym enthusiasts – experts in what we do, and getting you the results you’re after, as seen on ITV's Biggest Loser! Our VIP memberships give you flexibility - No contract, No joining fee! Lifestyle, health and goals to ensure you get the most out of your membership. • • • •

Monthly consultation and Fitness review with a qualified Personal Trainer. Personalised Gym programmes Priority class bookings Classes including Pilates, Legs, Bums & Tums, Spin, HIIT, Boxercise, Tabata and Bootcamp.

Simply call today to book your free tour on 01902 750355 Danescourt Road, Tettenhall WV6 9BQ • 01902 750 355

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Mind YOUR WEIGHT

With the spring sunshine starting to become a more regular visitor, thoughts turn to summer holidays and… Beachwear! Jumpers and big coats hide a multitude of sins!

March saw the beginning of my first Placebo Diet VIP course; six lovely people join me each week, to learn how their mind works and what to do to make positive changes that last. Then we spend time on a super simple colour code system that makes choosing and buying healthy food easy. There are so many diets and food fads around; it’s very confusing. It may help to understand a bit about why dieting often ends in disappointment, and worse still, loosing weight, only to put it back on again, and then some! The body knows how to manage the right food, eaten at the correct time. It’s when our busy lives get in the way that it all goes a bit wonky! Some of the ‘low calorie’ or ‘fasting’ diets work really well in the short term, and show some impressive results. However, as with a lot of diets, often it involves eating foods we may not like, and has us feeling deprived, miserable and craving sweet sugary or stodgy foods. Slimming clubs are a good social way of getting motivated to lose weight. The weekly weigh-in can be a cause for celebration; (or humiliating evidence of a bad week). So what does the word diet mean to you? The correct description is; food you eat every day. So who’s on the ‘micro meals and take away’ diet?!

Whatever slimming plan you choose, it will only work if you do it all the time. So if you have to feel deprived or hungry every day, its no wonder we fail! So to make permanent, healthy food choices, knowing why we do what we do, when we don’t choose what’s good for us is key. Here are a few tips: Ask yourself ‘Why’? If you are losing weight for any one else but yourself, it won’t work. Get a really strong image of what you want to look like – be realistic. Write a list of what you WILL be able to do when you reach your healthy weight – NOT what you don’t want. If you have a limiting belief that you’re not worth it or you just fail all the time, it won’t work. Get some help to sort out that little voice that gets in the way of you being successful. Put a picture of a pair of eyes on the fridge, and the cupboard with the snacks in – trust me, it works! Write down all the foods you eat that you know are unhealthy, and then write a list of healthy foods – only ones you like! Then you will see where you can make swaps. Throw away the scales! Instead, find a piece of clothing that you want to be able to fit into comfortably. Use this as your guide. Hang it up where you will see it every day.

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

Some of the issues I work with:

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

Find out more at mindbabble.co.uk Contact me for a FREE consultation call & see how I can help you.

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Phone: 07980 541271 email: change@mindbabble.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Stepping into the

Spotlight wanting to lose weight for her forthcoming 40th birthday.

“Louise was an incredibly focused client who achieved her goal of losing three stones * in less than a year. I asked her if she’d consider taking on the role of a Consultant and in April 2014 she completed the required training to become an Accredited Consultant.” Three years on, Louise has built her own strong business and is keen to help others achieve their goals. “I nominated Louise for an award at a recent UK Annual Cambridge Weight Plan Annual Convention and she won a ‘Highly Commended Award’, she was delighted and so was I.”

Karen Price introduces fellow Cambridge Weight Plan Consultant, Louise Peck

And Karen has helped her clients to achieve recognition too, as she explains: “My clients have been awarded ‘Male Slimmer Finalist’, ‘Female Inspiration of the Year Finalist’ and ‘Male Slimmer of the Year Semi-Finalist.’

It has been eight years since Karen Price left her high-flying job in finance to embark on an exciting new career as a Cambridge Weight Plan Consultant, and she hasn’t looked back since.

From her Tettenhall-based office, that’s located within Chris Jewkes Fitness, Karen takes care of clients, both old and new, and fulfils her role as Team Leader by mentoring and working closely with her team of fellow Consultants.

Highly regarded by both her clients and her colleagues, Karen has achieved a catalogue of success and a string of accolades. Working hard to help her clients transform their lives and keen to develop her business, Karen has established a slick and professional operation and has won many coveted awards, including ‘Above and Beyond’, ‘Highly Commended’, ‘Business Building’ and ‘Sales Champion’.

And Louise was equally pleased when one of her own clients achieved the ‘Man of the Year Slimmer Finalist 2016/2017’ award. Based in Perton, Louise is keen to follow in Karen’s footsteps and grow her business in the local area. “I’m immensely proud of all Louise has achieved, she is a credit to my team and I’m sure she’ll go on to achieve much success in the future,” adds Karen. To start your weight-loss journey today, contact Karen on 07974 974 994 e:Karen.s.price@btinternet.com or Louise on 07790 982 888 e:loupeck1@googlemail.com

Passing on her knowledge and expertise, Karen has helped her team to grow their individual businesses’ and achieve success in their own right. “I really enjoy working with my team and enjoy sharing in their success, that’s why I’m keen to introduce Wolverhampton West Magazine readers to Louise Peck.”

Tettenhall Weight Loss Centre, located within Chris Jewkes Fitness Ltd., Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9BQ.

Karen met Louise in June 2013 when she contacted Karen

*The weight lost and timeframes are particular to this slimmer. Everyone’s weight-loss journey is unique to them.

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Women’s Health

A c r o ss t h e A g e s .

From Menorrhagia to Menopause. such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and dementia. For those over 45 experiencing menopausal symptoms, whilst the most effective treatment is HRT, there are other non-hormonal options. All of these will be discussed during the consultation including the risks and benefits of HRT, which vary according to age, length of treatment and previous family history. Current UK guidelines state that there should be no arbitrary time limits for the duration of HRT and that for healthy women under 60, the benefits are likely to outweigh the risks. Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital has nine consultant Gynaecologists. For an appointment, please ring 01902 275253

Menstrual problems at all ages can be successfully investigated by a specialist gynaecologist. At Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital, multi-lingual Ms Uma Bathula is a private gynaecological surgeon who specialises in managing menstrual problems, such as those affecting adolescents, concerns over heavy periods (menorrhagia) and women reaching the menopause. Qualifying at one of the premier medical institutes of India, JIPMER, Pondicherry, Ms Bathula completed her early medical training in India and then continued in the West Midlands, where she also undertook her specialist training. In addition to her extensive medical knowledge, Ms Bathula is proficient in a number of languages as well as English, including Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Punjabi and Urdu. She works in the NHS as a Consultant Gynaecologist & Obstetrician at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust and County Hospital Stafford, as well as at her private practice at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital. A member of the British Menopause Society, Uma Bathula, who specialises in menstrual irregularities, explains, “Heavy periods means menstrual blood loss that is more

than normal. It differs from one woman to the next, so I ask my patients to tell me what their normal loss is and how this is greater or longer than the usual 2-5 days or if it is associated with clots or flooding. Where heavy periods are affecting a woman’s quality of life and she reports certain symptoms, we will investigate and then treat her for these problems, using evidence-based treatment.” Once the cause is ascertained, a specific treatment is decided upon, based on the woman’s age and future fertility plans. Medical, rather than surgical, treatments are usually the first option and this can include a hormonal coil, or oral contraceptive or non- hormonal treatments, such as drugs which help with clotting. Surgery may be advised where medical treatment is ineffective or if there is no wish for future fertility. Minimal access (keyhole) techniques ensure speedy recovery and a quicker return to normal activities. Ms Bathula is a British Society of Colposcopy & Cervical Pathology accredited Colposcopist, dealing with abnormal cervical smears.

View Nuffield Health Wolverhampton’s Facebook page to see how our patients rate their experience at our hospital. If you would like to sample the services on offer, the following free patient events are being hosted by consultants at the hospital throughout July. Each event starts at 6:30pm – parking is free, and snacks and refreshments will be served: • Wednesday 5 July: Let’s Talk Hips • Thursday 13 July: Let’s Talk Knees • Wednesday 26 July: Let’s Talk Shoulders, Elbows & Hands • Thursday 27 July: Let’s Talk Women’s Health To book your place at any of our events go to: www. nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/ wolverhampton/events or call us.

Women who experience an early menopause (under 45) are usually advised to take Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to control their symptoms and to prevent long term complications

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Meet the boss (both of them)

Olha Lac

Focus on a better future

Reading problems? It could be visual stress With a fresh approach to educational challenges, treatment of an often unheard of neuro-optical condition – visual stress – is helping to remap young lives and providing a focus for the future that was never expected. John Nash meets optometrists and directors of Taylor Biddle Opticians, a practice that’s embraced this therapy with astonishing results.

Currently the success rate reported by Taylor Biddle Opticians, which has branches in Wombourne and Compton, is between 80 and 90 per cent.

Better behavioural patterns are regularly being reported and pupils previously disengaged from their education, displaying a fresh interest in learning.

Quite literally, the vision therapy is bringing a fresh focus on the future for those whose reading and writing challenges do not align with their intelligence. And the benefits are not only being seen in literacy improvements.

Treatment targets, in medical terms, Mears-Irlen Syndrome – a condition that can mimic dyslexia symptoms, but is not the same. Symptoms can occur despite normal vision. Approximately

A pioneering ophthalmic treatment is bringing fresh hope to children experiencing reading difficulties. Undiagnosed, they could be suffering from visual stress, a condition that is slowly being recognised as a towering educational stumbling block. Therapy involves extensive diagnostic tests and complex prescriptions with coloured lenses. But the clinical outcomes have been nothing short of radical, with so-called low-achievers making strident progress in the classroom. 112

Tracey Taylor

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

that he feels he ‘has a chance to get a good job now.’ Socially more engaged, he has asked for a trendy haircut and new clothes. His brother, academically capable, but disruptive because of sensory problems, has shown marked behavioral progress after receiving treatment.

five per cent of the population is severely affected and 20 per cent to a lesser degree. Critically, visual stress sufferers complain of movement on printed text, blurring of print with letters changing size or shape, patterns in print sometimes described as rivers of worms, colour halos surrounding letters or words, headaches, sore and watery eyes and fatigue whilst reading. There is no clinically recognised cure, but some patients report symptoms have disappeared or significantly decreased after wearing their special prescriptions for around two years. One of just around 40 registered UK Schoolvision practitioner optometrists, Olha Lac, a joint director of the practice with fellow optometrist Tracey Taylor, says: “It’s as if the brain pathways re-establish themselves.” Treatment essentially involves balancing the eyes – establishing accurate binocular vision, but it’s a lengthy process, examinations are intense taking a full hour and prescriptions are often fairly complex. Olha combines the diagnostic tools from the Schoolvision methodology; colorimetry, which measures the absorbance of a specific light wavelength; clinical eye tracker tests and other binocular vision tests for what she describes “a unique treatment that gives reliable results.”

“In the initial assessment, along with the extensive analysis, I conduct a speed of reading test. In a follow-up check-up, normally after three to four weeks, I measure the improvement the glasses have made. “I have one patient whose reading went up two [educational] levels in a month and another, whose reading speed went from 50 seconds a line to 17 seconds,” she says. The profile of Olha’s patients can include those on the autism spectrum, diagnosed Asperger syndrome children and pupils with specific educational needs. Adds Tracey: “We are getting referrals from all over and recently treated a girl from Greece, whose sister saw Olha about visual stress.” Admitting she was at first sceptical about visual stress as a concept, Tracey says: “I cannot deny the results we are seeing. It has potential to transform lives of both patients and their parents. “We know of a mother who has told us that the dramatic improvement in her son’s behaviour has changed her life too. It’s very humbling.” Most recently, a three-week follow-up appointment with a nine-year-old patient presented the following: the mother reported ‘the transformation has been amazing.’ The boy was underachieving at school, suffered regular headaches and was socially withdrawn. Adds Olha: “Within three weeks of wearing glasses he has completely changed. His confidence has soared, his SATs are expected to be normal rather than poor, and teachers are saying he is totally different – he now answers in class, is happy and wants to study.” In a touching comment made to his mother, the boy said

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“His mother said ‘everything around him appeared to be moving. He couldn’t stay still, had poor concentration and hated reading. Now with the glasses he’s much calmer and happier and improved at school’,” says Olha. For the first time this he has said he can see his mum’s face properly. According to the mother, both boys have gone from “disruptive to golden.” “It’s great, isn’t it,” adds Olha. Another success story is of a patient who was struggling at school, but has now been awarded a top educational scholarship. With an eye to the future, the business is expanding and its Compton branch in Bridgnorth Road is currently planning a firstfloor VIP suite to address styling with exclusive designer frames, including Lindberg – the glasses favoured by Simon Cowell. Over the years the company has invested heavily in technology and has its own 3D eye scanner. In 2015 Taylor Biddle reached the final of Express and Star Business Awards in a category of Best use of Technology. The business was founded in Compton in 1994 by Tracey and Mike Biddle. Tracey previously worked for Mike at his practice within the old Eye Infirmary on the Compton Road, and together they decided to form a partnership - Taylor Biddle Opticians. Two years later the Wombourne branch on Windmill Bank was developed. Mike retired in 2010. Olha joined as a director in 2014, having previously worked with the firm as a locum. Says Tracey, an eventing enthusiast, who has recently qualified for the Badminton Grassroots horse trial finals: “We’re now seeing third generation patients through the doors. Our emphasis is always on a very personal service.” 113

The benefits of fitness

classes Variety

Many people regularly exercise in gyms, swimming pools and outdoors, covering activities such as running, swimming and weight training, but very few people incorporate fitness classes into their exercise routines. Gym goers often avoid fitness classes, preferring to head to the cardio or weights section of a gym and overlook what instructor-led sessions have to offer. Others don’t feel confident enough to join in if it’s something they’ve not done before, or are worried in case they cannot keep up with the class. In fact, classes can shorten the time it takes to reach your fitness goal, and with everything from Yoga, Aquacise and Zumba to more intense sessions such as Bootcamp, HIIT and Group Cycle, there’s something suitable for all interests, abilities and routines.

With fitness classes available for all interests and abilities, there’s always something new and enjoyable to try. Adding a regular Yoga or Pilates class to your routine will help increase your flexibility and muscle tone, whilst adding in a HIIT or Circuits session could introduce you to new challenges and give you inspiration for your own workouts.

Instructors Following the lead of a professional fitness instructor can help improve your form and the way you carry out particular movements. Instructors are always on hand to give demonstrations or talk through anything you may find difficult. They can also provide alternatives if you’re suffering from an injury and want to take it easy, or if you’re looking to progress and want more of a challenge. Motivation Being part of a class and getting stuck into your workout alongside other people can be hugely empowering. Seeing other participants enjoying their workout and pushing themselves to achieve their fitness goals can motivate you further, making you want to work harder. Instructor encouragement and enthusiasm is also a benefit of attending fitness classes.

Socialising Lastly, attending a fitness class can be a social experience; through seeing the same people on a regular basis, many class attendees become friends and start to socialise before and after their workout sessions. Leading on from this, you may meet people who go to many fitness classes and invite you along to a new session which you may not have been to before. If you’re still unsure about adding fitness classes to your routine, why not try one out with a friend? As well as knowing someone else in the class, you can work together to motivate and support one another throughout the session. To find out more about WV Active and to see what fitness classes are on offer at the leisure centres, visit wvactive.com

The Health and Fitness Team at WV Active have many reasons why you should add regular fitness classes to your exercise routine.

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NO EXCUSES Join today from ÂŁ10 per month. No contract, no joining fee.

wvactive.com Aldersley | Bilston - Bert Williams | Central

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Tettenhall College Garden Party 24th June 2017, 2:30pm Tettenhall College is once again holding its annual garden party which is now in its second year this June. Last year the sun shone on a very successful event which attracted more than 600 people from the local community. From close encounters with farmyard friends to bucking bronco challenges, there was plenty to keep everyone entertained.

There were donkey rides, stalls and a host of other attractions, including chicken races and guess the weight of Buster the turkey. There was a bouncy castle and lots of fun games and activities for the children. Musical entertainment and a dance display also displayed some fantastic TC talent. Bookings for stands and stalls are being taken through the School’s Development Office who can be contacted on 01902 751119.

Te t t e n h a l l Vi l l a g e Fe t e

Now in its 19th year, this year’s Tettenhall Village Fete will once again be playing host to an array of local entertainment acts, charities and local community groups. Attractions will include entertainment from local dance and theatre groups, a kids’ zone, disco dome and a retro gaming tent where you can play to your hearts content on games consoles from the past such as the Sega Mega Drive and Nintendo 64!

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Tettenhall Round Table will be providing refreshments and entertainment including a Tombola, Barbeque and the now famous Tea Tent kindly packed with a fine selection of yummy cakes made by local residents (donations are greatly appreciated!). Those feeling thirsty will be able to sample local ciders from Hail to the Ale and glasses of ice cold Pimm’s and Prosecco. The event will be attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Wolverhampton. Through the Fete, Tettenhall Round Table hopes to generate in

excess of £5000 for a selection of local charities including Promise Dreams, Compton Hospice and Central Youth Theatre. Tettenhall Village Fete takes place on Sunday 9th July on Tettenhall Village Green. Entrance is free all day with ample parking available. Your support will be greatly appreciated by all involved and also by all who will benefit from the donations! Contact: Steve Slade - Tettenhall Fete Chairman, mobile 07881 938906, e-mail: stevedw@aol.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Renew your smile with

Custom made Dentures COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

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South Staffordshire

leisure

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

Gyms

•

Exercise Classes

•

Studio Cycling and My Ride

•

Swimming

•

Toning Suites

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

Join and receive: •

Free Health Check

•

Free Fitness Programme

•

Free Induction

The leisure centres are friendly and welcome all ages and abilities with a range of classes suitable for all fitness levels. Come and give it a try! To find out more visit www.sstaffs.gov.uk/leisure or call: Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre: 01922 417790 Codsall Leisure Centre: 01902 844032 Penkridge Leisure Centre: 01785 714152 Wombourne Leisure Centre: 01902 898202

NO Joining fee NO long term commitment NO cancellation fee 118

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

THIS MONTH’S CHOICES ARE NEXT MONTH’S BODY MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE <> <> <> <> <>

4 LEISURE CENTRES FOR 1 GREAT PRICE ACCESS ALL AREAS FOR £20 PER MONTH FREE HEALTH CHECKS AND FITNESS PROGRAMMES CLASSES FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES 30 MINUTE CLASSES FOR BUSY LIFESTYLES

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

CHOOSE FIT, CHOOSE HEALTHY, CHOOSE SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE COUNCILS LEISURE CENTRES Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre 01922 417790 Codsall Leisure Centre 01902 844032

Penkridge Leisure Centre 01785 714152 Wombourne Leisure Centre 01902 898202

LEISURE www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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CHIROPODY & PODIATRY CLINICS

HCPC/STATE REGISTERED

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

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

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

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

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Tom’s tip:

Pes Cavus one successful international runner with this problem.

• Painful corns and callous may develop under the 1st and 5th toe joints. • Unstable ankles may develop.

A claw foot is a genetic defect in the foot with a high arch. You can be born with them or you may develop them from some conditions i.e. Diabetes. Claw feet are relatively inflexible. This will often be associated with very tight calf muscles at the back of the lower leg. What Problems Can Pes Cavus Cause? • Pain in the feet during running. • Painful toes that are bent and cannot be straightened. • You will not usually be any good at long distance running - however I know of

• Problems may occur with the Achilles Tendons. • Knee problems may occur as a secondary condition. Treatment What can you do about claw foot? • Do plenty of static stretching, especially of the calf muscles and the sole of the foot

(Claw foot)

Advice on the correct running shoes Neutral shoes have a midsole of constant density. A motion control shoe will have a harder inside midsole to help prevent the foot rolling in or pronating. If you have the wrong running shoes you will just make any problems worse. People with high arches are often supinator’s and should contact a shoe specialist for advice.

Thomas Casey Chiropodist/Podiatrist HCPC registered

• Take steps to avoid injury such as correct shoe selection, strengthening and stretching exercises • See a podiatrist/chiropodist who can assess your biomechanical function of the feet and provide appropriate orthotic devices. These should alleviate or prevent the above problems.

WOLVERHAMPTON HIP

& KNEE CLINIC

The Wolverhampton hip and knee clinic has been developed to provide modern, comprehensive and evidence based treatment for all hip and knee disorders. Mr David Simpson is an established and experienced Consultant orthopaedic surgeon. He is the leading regional exponent of custom made, personalised ‘Signature’ knee replacements.

MR DAVID SIMPSON CONSULTANT ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON

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

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

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A final decision in landmark

inheritance case

But what does it mean for you? A decision by the Supreme Court to rule in favour of three animal charities in a long running legal wrangle between a woman and her estranged mother is set to have far reaching implications for future inheritance disputes. Craig Ridge, a Partner at Wolverhampton law firm FBC Manby Bowdler and an expert in contentious probate, said the ruling to allow Heather Illot to only inherit £50,000 from her late mother’s estate could “close the floodgates” to potential claims from those in a similar position. He explains what the landmark judgment means and what it means to you: The true story of Heather Ilott who was disinherited when she fell out with her mother when she left home at 17 to live with her now husband may seem like a plot from a television drama but it has been a closely watched case in the legal world due to the repercussions it will have. Heather’s estranged mother, Melita Jackson, left her entire

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estate to three animal charities. At first, Heather was awarded £50,000 as she claimed, under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, that she could rightfully expect to be provided for in her mother’s will. This was increased to £163,000 on appeal. But the charities challenged that decision in the Supreme Court, which ruled she now will only inherit the original £50,000 lump sum. This decision will close the floodgates in relation to claims made against a deceased’s estate. The main lesson to learn from this is the importance of a properly drafted will. The number of inheritance disputes have increased eight-fold in the last year as more people are prepared to challenge what they perceive to be an unfair decision by their parent or relative.

wrongfully excluded, there will need to be cast iron grounds for a claim before a court rules in your favour. If you’d like to know more contact Craig on 01902 392402 or by email at c.ridge@fbcmb.co.uk. Craig Ridge is Head of FBC Manby Bowdler’s Disputed Probate team. His areas of practice include providing advice in relation to claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, disputes in relation to the validity of wills and disputes regarding the construction of wills, actions for breach of trust and/or breach of duty in the administration of trusts/estate and professional negligence in relation to wills, trusts and/or estates.

Although the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 exists, the Illot saga tells us that judges will be looking at a number of broader issues when ruling on cases in the future. It highlights the need to have watertight grounds on which to exclude someone from your will. And although there will still be opportunities to legally challenge a will if you feel you have been

Craig Ridge, a Partner and Head of the Disputed Probate team at FBC Manby Bowdler.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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PAYCARE POWERS UP

Local Football Partnership Two local football teams will have the opportunity to go ‘foot to foot’ for charity at Molineux Stadium next month thanks to a Wolverhamptonbased health cover provider.

Paycare, which is official back of shirt sponsor for Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, has launched the ‘Paycare Unity Cup’ – a unique event which will Kevin Rogers, CEO of Paycare see Black Country Fusion FC take on Wolves Pride FC in a match at the Championship club’s ground on Sunday 14th May in aid of The Haven, a local charity supporting vulnerable women and children affected by domestic abuse and homelessness. Wolves Pride FC currently plays in the Wolverhampton & District Sunday League while Black Country Fusion FC plays in the Sunday Beacon League, with the latter set up last year by transgender female Skye Stewart with the aim of creating a completely inclusive football team that fully embraces the LGBT community and promotes equality.

The one-off charity match between the two teams will kick off at 5pm at Molineux, with tickets priced at only £5 for adults and £2 for children under 16. Kevin Rogers, CEO of Paycare, said: “We’ve been proud partners of Wolves for many, many years, and are delighted that we have been able to use this opportunity to not only support grass-roots football and promote the wonderful work that both Black Country Fusion FC and Wolves Pride FC do to tackle societal prejudices, but to also raise much-needed funds for a very worthwhile cause.” The ball boys on the day will be representing Bilbrook Junior U9s, who will also be hosting a special penalty shootout at half time. Skye Stewart of Black Country Fusion FC said: “We are all hugely excited about having the opportunity to step out onto the Molineux pitch on the 14th May, and would like to offer our heartfelt thanks to the team at Paycare for making it happen. Whether you’re a football fan or not, this promises to be an absolutely fantastic event and we’d love to see as many local people as possible coming along and supporting this wonderful cause.” To book your tickets for the event, please visit the Paycare Unity Cup’s dedicated Eventbrite page www.tinyurl.com/paycareunitycup or email Skye directly on blackcountryfusion@outlook.com

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wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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The Smartphone Revolution and how it has changed the digital world In 2007 Steve Jobs started a revolution with the launch of the iPhone. Touchscreens replaced keypads, finger swipes replaced button taps and screen real estate exploded in high definition colour. It’s no surprise that 10 years later 81% of the people in the UK own a smartphone. The introduction of 3G networks made browsing the web from your phone fast enough to become useful. Unfortunately, it was still a clunky experience as websites weren’t ready to show their content on small screens. In 2010 a new approach to web design was put forward by Ethan Marcotte: “Responsive Web Design”. The concept was that a website should adapt (or respond) to any screen size and show the content in a usable, readable fashion. Websites that implemented this approach were easy to browse, read and (most importantly) buy from on any mobile device or tablet. This gave early adopters of this technique a massive advantage over their competitors. Google and the other search engines now check to see if a website is Responsive when showing search results to people on mobile. If a website is not responsive, then it’s unlikely Google will show it as an option. As of August 2016, Google announced that 85% of all pages shown in mobile search results are mobile-friendly.

On April 3rd 2017 we reached a tipping point. For the first time in history, the Android operating system (which powers most smartphones) now generates more internet traffic than Microsoft Windows. This can be interpreted another way - more people are browsing the web on their phone than on their desktop computer or laptop. When you combine iOS usage (Apple’s mobile operating system) with Android we see that mobile traffic accounts for 51% of all internet traffic. A major milestone.

Does your website work on mobile? To find out, visit www. mobilefriendly.me.uk and enter your website’s domain name. It’s important to note that even if your website has been made “mobile-friendly” in the past, the techniques used might not be up to date. Before responsive layouts become possible it was the norm to create two versions of a website - one for desktop computers, and the other for mobile phones. This has meant you have to maintain two websites rather than

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one - a chore, and something that is prone to error.

What’s coming in the future? All technology is going through constant evolution and revolution. The technology that powers your website today will be redundant in a few years time. Will your website be ready?

You generally have two options: 1. Budget to rebuild your website every couple of years. 2. Have your website built and maintained by an expert who will constantly work on the underlying code of your website to make sure it can cope with what the future will throw at it At Wolverhampton West Magazine, we’ve made the second option surprisingly cost effective. Scott Bowler is a digital marketer and developer with over 12 years’ commercial experience working across the globe. He works in conjunction with Wolverhampton West Magazine to help them deliver digital solutions to businesses across the Wolverhampton region.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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New servers please at

tennis club

Pictured making it game network and match are l-r Chris Wilkinson, Concero engineer, Marc Hughes, WLTS Club operations manager and Bradley Clegg, Concero director.

It’s game, network and match for a Midlands IT company after netting a new contract with Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis and Squash Club. IT experts Concero Ltd have been awarded the contract to upgrade, manage and maintain the sports club’s computer and wireless networks as well as data storage and security. The company, based in Newbridge Tettenhall, provides IT services for schools and businesses across 128

Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, Dudley, Sandwell and Walsall. Securing a contract with the sports club is the latest in a series of new business deals for Concero Ltd. Marc Hughes, operations manager at Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis and Squash Club, in Newbridge Crescent, said: “We are undergoing a lot of investment at the club and we realised our network was outof-date and not fit for purpose. “Concero surveyed the site, looked at our current IT provision and resolved network problems. With their help we have invested in new computers and laptops and we are now using their expertise to plan for future upgrades.”

Bradley Clegg, Concero director, added: “We work with schools, small, medium and large businesses and whatever the nature of their business – be it sport, school or industry, they all have increasing expectations and demands on the computer their staff and customers use. In this case the club needed new hardware as well as improving its wireless network and more importantly its data storage and security. It’s a nice case of game, network and match for both businesses.” For more information, contact us at enquiries@concerouk.com

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wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Redevelopment work to start at historic

Wolverhampton school Work is set to get under way on a 3 million pound redevelopment project at Tettenhall College. The historic independent school, which has seen a recent rise in pupil numbers, has unveiled its designs of how some of the new developments will look. Plans include a striking new sixth form centre, a modernised library, upgraded boarding houses and additional sporting facilities. The stunning new sixth form centre at the heart of the School will provide the best of both worlds for pupils with a mezzanine ICT and study area. A brand new contemporary sixth form common room is also planned and is due to be completed by Autumn 2017. Sport will be given a boost with the installation of two multi-purpose games areas, for tennis, netball and football. In addition, the School’s squash courts will be given a refurbishment thanks to a former pupil’s generous legacy.

Graham Aston, a keen squash player and former Head Boy, left a £400,000 legacy to the School to develop the sport at the School. As a result of this funding, the School is able to offer several academic scholarships available for students looking for Sixth Form places in September 2017 and is open to applicants with immediate effect. The School’s Boarding Houses celebrate their 150th anniversary this year and will also be refurbished with a modern and welcoming new look as well as stylish ensuite bathrooms. Headmaster David Williams said: “We are very pleased that work will begin on these exciting redevelopments at Tettenhall College. We are already proud of

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our educational offering to pupils and the proposed upgrades will strengthen this further. “The work undertaken will blend the contemporary with the historic, which supports our drive to maintain traditional values while moving forward with the times.” As part of the works, renovation of The Towers, one of Wolverhampton’s few Grade II* listed buildings, will be undertaken. The ‘Towers’ were added in 1866 by eccentric owner and inventor Colonel Thomas Thorneycroft but now house the School’s theatre which regularly hosts local community theatre groups. Work has already commenced on the project and will be completed over the summer holidays.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

E X T R A O R D I N A RY E D U C AT I O N

Preparatory School

Senior School

OPEN MORNING

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Saturday 6th May

9am - 11.30am

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www.tettenhallcollege.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

One of the top 25

Prep Schools

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

As an Independent prep school, we continue to voluntarily enter our girls for SATs which we do as a benchmark to help us see where we sit amongst the state sector; ensuring our high standards are maintained and externally measured. Newbridge Preparatory School, ranked 24th in the Sunday Times listing, achieved the following percentage of pupils meeting a level 5 standard in their SATs results: • Reading: 100% • Mathematics: 88% • Grammar, punctuation and spelling: 88% Additionally, at level 6, which is achieved by less than 1% of

pupils taking Key Stage Two SATs, Newbridge girls achieved:

• Mathematics: 40% • Grammar, punctuation and spelling: 31% • Level 6 SATs were additional tests intended to challenge Year Six children who were excelling in maths and/or English. Level 6 is a standard that the average child does not reach until Year Ten.

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

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

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

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

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

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Inspiring growth in

mind, body and spirit

St. Dominic’s Brewood, the leading Staffordshire Independent School, has recently been graded by the Department for Education as being top of the GCSE league tables in Staffordshire.

The pupils at St. Dominic’s achieved 100% 5 A*-C grades in the core subjects. None of the students failed any of the subjects and 39% of the total GCSEs achieved at the school were graded at A* or A. For the last two years, St. Dominic’s Brewood, has been top among all Staffordshire schools in the English Baccalaureate standard, a measurement designed

by red brick universities to ensure that students include English, Mathematics, Science, History or Geography and a foreign language in their GCSE passes to gain access to the best universities. The results for 2016 at St. Dominic’s Brewood for A-levels were also excellent. The pupils achieved a 100% pass rate of which 37% were graded at A*or A which is an increase from the previous year. A new measure by the Department for Education this year has been the Attainment 8 Standard in which the pupils at St. Dominic’s achieved a score of 64.9, again, the highest for a school in Staffordshire. St. Dominic’s Brewood has for many years excelled in ‘value added’ data. This is a measure of how students progress academically throughout their senior school and how they achieve in their GCSE and A Level results compared to the progress expected. Although these academic results are extremely impressive, the school’s motto of ‘mind, body and spirit‘ is still just as important to ensure that every pupil reaches their potential in all aspects of their life, ensuring that they leave the school as happy, confident and well-rounded individuals ready to compete at the highest level in a competitive world.

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wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

â&#x20AC;˘ New Tennis Scholarships launched for 2017 Free funded nursery education places are available. For further information or to arrange a visit to the school please contact us on (01902) 850248 or Email: secretary@stdominicsbrewood.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk Bargate Street, Brewood, South Staffordshire, ST19 9BA

www.stdominicsbrewood.co.uk

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Married Couple’s

Tax allowanCe

Are you eligible and if so are you claiming it? I am staggered at the number of people I see who have no idea that there is a married couple’s allowance, let alone claim it. The allowance was introduced on 6th April 2015 and it allows a couple to benefit if one is earning less than £11,500 and the other is earning between £11,500 and £45,000 in tax year 2017/18. The allowance means that the lower earner can transfer £1,150 (2017/18) to their husband, wife or civil partner which will save £230 in tax for this year. 136

You can also backdate any claim to 6th April 2015, so for anyone who is eligible it means you could be entitled to a combined tax rebate of £662. There are in the UK 4.2 million people eligible for this allowance however to date only 2.4 million couples have claimed it. How do you go about claiming? It is a simple process for anyone who is tech savvy, simply log on to https://www.gov.uk/applymarriage-allowance and at the bottom of the page hit “start now” For those of you who do not have access to a computer simply phone HMRC on 0300

200 3300, making sure that you have both of your national insurance numbers together and acceptable forms of ID. Please note that it must be the lower earner who contacts HMRC as it is they who are transferring part of their allowance. Pension contributions for higher rate tax payers close to retirement For anyone approaching retirement, making use of the tax relief available to you when investing in a pension is so beneficial that it just doesn’t make sense not to benefit. Take someone earning £55,000 per annum. The tax payable on

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

the top £10,000 of earnings is £4,000, meaning that after tax you would receive £6,000. Now, most people approaching retirement tend to have savings and can forgo what is in effect £500 per month from their net salary, and by doing this when you retire and become a basic rate taxpayer (as most people do), after tax you would receive £8,500 giving you a profit of £2,500 on what is in essence a £6,000 investment. I recently had someone contact me for advice regarding his potential retirement. He is 58 years old and wants to ideally retire when he is 60 however, because of the mortgage they have, he may be 65 before he is in a position to finish work and live comfortably. Whilst discussing his financial circumstances, in order to clear their mortgage he is overpaying by £600 per month which, over 2 years, would give him capital repayments of £14,400 or if he continued working until age 65 the overpayments would total £50,400. By redirecting these overpayments into his pension the benefits are considerable as, should he retire at age 60, instead of £14,400 he would have £20,400 and if he continued to work until his 65th birthday the £50,400 would be £71,400, providing he did not withdraw the full amount in one tax year as this would put him in the higher rate tax bracket.

working for JLR requested figures should he decide to take early retirement within the scheme. His projected pension at age 65 is just in excess of £30,000 p.a. so when he was told if he retired early he would be entitled to £70,000 tax free cash plus a reduced pension of £13,500 p.a. he was to say the least crestfallen. Fortunately, he then contacted us and we approached JLR to request a transfer value which came back at £679,00. After all costs of transferring this give him tax free cash just in excess of £166,000 and a pension fund remaining of £500,000. As it happens, he does not need all his tax free cash so this will be staggered as and when required. The decision has been made that he will retire next March on his 59th birthday - to say he is looking forward to next year is an understatement. If you have a preserved pension and would like to explore your options please feel free to contact us and we can advise you accordingly.

With the changes we have seen in pension legislation over the last few years there is, in my opinion, no better place to invest as you have total control of how and when you access your benefits once you reach your 55th birthday plus, in addition, pensions are outside of your estate for inheritance tax. Another happy client For those of you who read my article on a regular basis: in the last edition I told you about Mrs R who is 58 years old and is now retiring after transferring her preserved pension with Jaguar Land Rover. I have now just advised another JLR employee who, like Mrs R, is 58 years old and after 37 years www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

John Webb

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

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

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

www.midlandifa.co.uk Throughout the year we at Midland Independent hold investment seminars with industry experts. If you would like to attend please email: info@midlandifa.co.uk 137

DO YOU HAVE

MORE THAN ONE HANDICAP

WHEN PLAYING GOLF?

Do you have trouble treading the fairways? Do you suffer with heel, shin or knee pain?

Contact Chiropodist/Podiatrist Tom Casey BSc (Hons), MCHS, SRCH for an appointment:

07828 613165 OR (01902) 833426 138

Park Avenue Chiropody & Podiatry Clinic, 13A Park Avenue, Wolverhampton WV1 4AH wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Golf for everyone

at Wrottesley coaching on a Saturday afternoon free of charge for pupils up to 16yrs of age and is well supported, with many parents looking on!

At the other end of the scale, and with the sponsorship of Evans Halshaw, the club hosts a very successful professional tournament for PGA players throughout the Midlands in September. The winner usually scoring par or slightly above is testament that the course is no pushover and seriously tests the pros! The tournament is well supported with cash prizes and a trophy is presented to the winner by our sponsor. If you want a course, where you can play a round of golf after work then look no further. Book a complimentary round via the club Secretary and see for yourself what a gem of a course we have at your disposal. Remember what one of the PGA players in September 2014 said of Wrottesley, “It’s one of the two best par threes in the country”.

PGA professional Les Burlison coaching one of the Juniors

For more information, check out the website listed below, everyone is welcome to come and play this delightful course.

Wrottesley Golf Club is situated in the grounds of Wrottesley Hall on the A41 outside Wolverhampton. The course is 3000yds long with six holes in excess of 200yds. It is a full 18hole par three layout in sweeping parkland, equally challenging to both high and low handicap players. There are competitions each weekend, weather permitting, with trophies to be won. The men’s senior section has Tuesday morning competitions, followed by the ladies’ section competition on Wednesday. Thursday evening we have fundraising matches followed by “pie and chips”. The club has a keen junior section and the course is a useful stepping-stone for youngsters hoping to graduate up to a full-size course. The Junior Section has its own PGA professional, Les Burlison, previously of Oxley Park. Les provides

Andrew Qualters from sponsor Evans Halshaw, the local Ford dealership, presenting the 2016 winners’ trophy to Rob Burlison

WROTTESLEY GOLF | CLUB 140

For information on membership details please visit our website:

www.wrottesleygolfclub.co.uk or call 07910 681706

Wrottesley Golf Club, Holyhead Road, Codsall, Wolverhampton WV8 2HL wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Oxley Park: an emerald gem

in the city of Wolverhampton 103 years of age and barely a stone’s throw from the City centre. Fresh faces and fresh ideas in motion at Wolverhampton’s Oxley Park Golf Club this season mean a revitalised venue with much to offer. Oxley’s easy walking parkland course sits in the middle of a large residential area but comfortably offers a peaceful and tranquil feel throughout. On the flip side it also presents a good deal of out of bounds, half of the holes offer that threat. It’s a tight course with a high premium on accuracy, the lush and well conditioned fairways offer a helping hand to a well aimed golf ball.

Pro Shop – Our Award Winning PGA Fellow Professional Craig Thomas and his team offer a wide range of brands and products in the newly refurbished professional shop. 2017 has seen the introduction of a swing room within the shop where club demo’s, custom fitting and coaching can take place all using the industry leading technology (FlightScope). The Golf Academy also offers an extensive range of coaching packages to meet the needs of every golfer from the complete beginner to the tour professional. If you are interested in joining one of the best courses in the area with a friendly atmosphere please call the Pro Shop on 01902 773989 ext3 or email office@oxleyparkgolfclub.co.uk

Colt’s design made good use of the natural gently rolling landscape and it’s a good layout to test out the state of your mid to short iron game. An ongoing course improvement plan is well under way including the reconstruction of bunkers which means the course will continue to be a challenging test to all level of golfer. 19th hole – Traditional clubhouse facilities which have had minor renovations giving a fresh feel for the coming season, large club room plus a private room for hire. Great choice of menus for all occasions, and a varied social calendar.

Now the golfing season is upon us there is no time like the present to join a club and take advantage of the summer weather and lighter nights.

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Stafford Road, Bushbury, Wolverhampton WV10 6DE • Main Tel: 01902 773989 *2 Pro Shop: 01902 773989 *3

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South Staffordshire Golf Club Great Golf, fine food in a stunning setting his helicopter pilot training at the local RAF base – and frequently enjoyed the couples’ food.” After spending three years at Burnley Golf Club and welcoming their first child, the couple decided to return to the West Midlands and have now taken on their latest roles at the club. “Since arriving at the club, Neven and Angela have impressed everyone with their delicious cuisine.”

Founded in 1892, South Staffordshire Golf Club has long been regarded as one of the finest courses in the West Midlands. Located just outside of the picturesque village of Tettenhall, in Danescourt Road, the club is set in 160 acres and boasts a 6512 yard par 71 course that was designed in 1908 by Harry Vardon, one of the greatest players and most influential figures in the early history of the sport. Over the years the course has been ‘tweaked’ by other golfing greats, including Harry Colt, James Braid and most recently, Donald Steel. So, it’s no surprise that the club is prized by its members, praised by visitors and this year is celebrating its 125th anniversary. As Sue LeBeau, Club Manager, explains: “The course is maintained to the highest standards and offers a series of interesting and challenging holes, including no fewer than six par four holes of over 400 yards from the Medal Tees, contributing to a standard scratch of 72 and demanding a mixture of skill and imagination to play them well.” 142

It’s not just skilled golfers that can enjoy the club though, there’s also the Peter Baker Golf Academy that offers lessons to those looking to improve their swing in the indoor swing clinic or at the 10 acre driving range and practice area. “We also have a well-stocked Golf Pro Shop and Clubhouse that’s complete with a lounge bar, spike bar and terrace, television lounge and restaurant – all of which offer splendid views.” In fact, the restaurant’s menu has recently been transformed by the clubs’ new resident culinary experts, Neven Vukasovic and his wife, Angela, who both have an impressive background in the industry. Born into catering, Neven was introduced to the industry from an early age by his father. When he left his home country of Croatia, he settled in Birmingham and ran the Strathallan Hotel’s restaurant before working at an Italian restaurant in the Merry Hill Centre, which is where he met his wife Angela. “Neven and Angela decided to work together and found positions as stewards at Halesowen Golf Club before moving to the Fox and Hounds Gastro Pub in Shawbury, Shropshire, where Prince William became a regular - whilst he completed

Whether it’s a dish from the new menu, Angela’s delightful traditional afternoon tea or a specially created spread for a special occasion, the duo don’t fail to delight diners. “We’ve launched new bimonthly Sunday lunches, which we’re hoping to develop into a weekly occurrence and we’re also planning themed events that showcase food from around the world.” Excitingly, it’s not just members that can enjoy the club’s delicious fayre and great location. “The club is available for hire for all private functions, like weddings, parties, Christenings and wakes,” adds Sue Lebeau. And non-members can also enjoy Sunday Lunch and Afternoon Tea when making a booking for a small party. So, why not celebrate your special occasion at South Staffordshire Golf Club and combine fine food with a great course for a memorable society day out.

Neven Vukasovic and his wife, Angela

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Celebrating 125 Years of Golf

English sEnior ladiEs amatEur Championship If you haven’t played at South Staffs before, it is an attractive parkland course which is renowned for fast greens. In a rural setting with good road links, plentiful accommodation close by we can guarantee you a challenging game of golf and a lovely day out, or come along as a spectator and support the event.

include a new match play stage for players aged 60 and over. The event will start, as usual, with two rounds of stroke play to decide who goes forward to the match play events. The top 32 players will compete in the championship matches for the Wendy Taylor Salver. The leading 16 players, aged 60 and over, will play for the Ann Howard Trophy.

Players can enter if they’re aged 50 or over on the first day of the championship and have a handicap of 15.4 or better. Played from the 15th – 19th May with a practice day on Sunday 14th in the afternoon, the Championship will now

OPEN COMPETITIONS 2017 LADIES AM-AM

Tuesday 9th May 2017

Play the course the week before the English Senior Ladies Amateur Championship. £15 per person (Ladies only, booking essential).

OPEN AM-AM

Sunday 28th May 2017 Team of 4. £100 per team.

SENIOR OPEN AM-AM

Wednesday 14th June 2017

Team of 4. £120 per team includes a buffet lunch.

MIXED OPEN 4 BBB

Sunday 18th June 2017 £38 per pair.

LADIES 3 BALL ALLIANCE

JUNIOR OPEN

Thursday 3rd August 2017 £12 entry fee.

SENIOR MIXED OPEN 4 BBB Thursday 31st August 2017

£60 per pair including buffet lunch.

VARDON BOWL

Saturday 2nd September 2017

Tuesday 11th July 2017 Team

Mens individual £25 each, scratch and nett prizes.

OPEN AM-AM

SENIOR MENS OPEN 4 BBB

of 4. £100 per team.

£60 per pair includes a buffet lunch.

of 3. £45 per team.

Sunday 30th July 2017 Team

Download the form or book directly online at the club website: www.southstaffordshiregolfclub.co.uk

Thursday 14th September 2017

We look forward to welcoming you to South Staffs Golf Club to what promises to be a wonderful summer of Golf, with good food and excellent company on Harry Vardon’s great course. Sue LeBeau, Club Manager, The South Staffordshire Golf Club

The South Staffordshire Golf Club, Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9BQ @SouthStaffsgc /SouthStaffsGolfClub www.southstaffordshiregolfclub.co.uk Tel:www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk 01902 751065

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Golf Rules OK By Rob Taylor

Levity in sport is always important. Any player – amateur or professional – must be able to quickly restore perspective after any misfortune or mishap – and doing so with a smile is key to enjoying any game. Competitiveness gets you so far but it’s crucial to know when to back things off, especially if you are getting to grips with golf. 144

The sport is a tough one to master so every golfer needs a good laugh now and again. Familiar jests relating to common golfing woes abound on every course: labelling a shot with excessive spin as a “Tony Blair” and referring to a green as a “James Joyce”, in order to infer that it’s ‘impossible to read’, are two of my favourites.

modern, plain style”, written from a “player’s perspective”, which will dictate both amateur and professional play. Now to illustrate our very own “player’s perspective”, I’ll let our esteemed editor, Geoff Hall, take his turn on the tee:

But what isn’t so amusing (and downright confounding at times) are rules of play last officially updated in 1984. A lot has changed in the thirty-odd years since: the speed of life has accelerated dramatically because of technology, golf has lost its ‘stuffy’ image and, for many golfers, the rules of the ancient game are long overdue a shake-up. So that’s exactly what the sport’s two governing bodies, the Royal and Ancient and United States Golf Association, will deliver in the next few months: a new rulebook introducing “a wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

who have attention spans measured in microseconds. The R & A’s David Rickman said: “We’ve ended up with a technical and complicated code, and that’s not what we want. We need to reduce complexity and one way to do so is by putting a greater emphasis on player integrity.”

“I play golf regularly and the rules are very confusing to the amateur. We don’t have rules’ officials at our ‘beck and call’ or carry a rulebook with us during a round. “The new rules are supposed to simplify everything, which should speed up the pace of play, making them more suitable for the modern game.” Anyone familiar with standing in pouring rain watching a hacker hunting aimlessly for a lost ball on the eighteenth hole, while all the time waiting desperately craving a drink at the nineteenth, will welcome

plans to scrap the current five minute search allowance. Furthermore, protocols for taking free or penalty drops will be changed, with players allowed to drop the ball from only an inch above the ground, as well as changes to recommend that no player take more than 40 seconds to hit a shot – plus lots more. Every change is designed to dramatically speed up the progress of players around courses and avoid queues at the tee. So to boil it all down into a golf ball-sized nugget: the game will be faster, simpler - and set-up to appeal to younger generations

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As building integrity is already an essential cornerstone of the game and key to the development of youngsters, this is welcome news. Of course the change to the rules will do nothing to take away from the very many existing perks of golf, which include health and social benefits, as well as the natural beauty of a game that occupies some of the finest vistas in sport. Golf has never before been more accessible and egalitarian (it even has the greatest leveller of them all, the Handicap System) and the forthcoming changes will only make it even more appealing. Throw in the fact that on our doorstep we are unnaturally blessed with many outstanding courses and you have a heady mix of reasons why you should get into golf.

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TopTracer will change golf practice forever! Wolverhampton-based golf complex 3 Hammers have revolutionised its 20 bay driving range to be one of the first in the country to have the new Toptracer experience. Formerly Protracer, the new generation technology now rebranded as Toptracer follows a take over by Topgolf in May 2016. The state of the art technology tracks and analyses every shot hit on a driving range making golfers’ practice sessions more rewarding, and more importantly making it a lot more fun to go to the driving range. The national award winning golf complex based in Coven is renowned for being a trailblazer in the golfing world with its first class indoor and outdoor facilities including an 18 hole golf course, indoor Golf

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Performance Studio, 5 PGA Golf Professionals and the latest Trackman 4 – the world’s leading launch monitor. The introduction of Toptracer now enables their customers to convert shots to actual yardages, just as if they had hit a premium golf ball. Golfers can visit 3 Hammers and go through their whole golf bag from sand wedge to driver, replay all their shots and get real yardages on their smartphone or tablet… all for free! Golf Academy Director Rob Bluck said “Toptracer adds a whole new dimension to a golfer’s practice and learning. Range practice is ideal for golfers who want to practice and get instant feedback on their practice session obtaining data such as shot shape, carry distance and distance from target. 3 Hammers continues to go from strength to strength and leads the way by offering the region’s golfers the latest, high quality facilities”.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Make Your Practice Count As soon as you hit the ball the shot flight will be shown on the touchscreen tablet in your bay. You will also see exactly how far your shot travelled in yardages. Set up the golf ball. As soon as you hit the ball the shot trajectory is shown in the 23 inch mounted touch screen monitor. Use the menu to adjust the angle against your 3 previous shots. You can then send your scorecard via email and see if you can improve on your result at your next visit. Toptracer was originally developed to show viewers the flight path of golf shots, the yardage and the distance the ball ends from the target. Now technology has been adapted and is available for customers to use for free of charge on their range, with custom-made screens built into 10 of their driving range bays. Customers can also download the app to their smartphone or tablet. Toptracer gives accurate yardages on every shot, shows the shot trajectory and lets customers play exciting points games. The complex’s investment in Toptracer means game improvement has never been so accessible and enjoyable for golfers practicing at 3 Hammers. There’s no need for a device, they simply turn up and start hitting balls. Customers can experience this groundbreaking technology and are invited to pop down to 3 Hammers and try out this revolutionary kit for themselves. They can analyse their game like the pros, either individually

or as a group of friends, in a nearest the pin, longest drive or points and skills competition. A live leader board of ongoing games is also displayed at the complex making it fun for beginners and golf Pros alike. This pioneering technology has been introduced to the complex as part of its £210,000 driving range upgrade. 2016 saw their driving range outfield completely remodelled to make it more like that of a real golf course. Complex owner Ian Bonser said “Toptracer is very popular among golfers who not only want to improve their game but have fun too. This technology is state of the art and brings 3 Hammers truly into the 21st century”.

Golf Reception and Academy 01902 790428 Bar & Bistro 01902 791917 American Golf Store 01902 544470 Email info@3hammers.co.uk

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3 Hammers Golf Complex Old Stafford Road Coven Wolverhampton Staffordshire WV10 7PP www.3hammers.co.uk

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Above Par

League finalists and, last year, a Junior Midland champion. Scenic views across Sedgley Golf Course

The Mark Butler Golf Academy prides itself on providing a unique environment wherein anyone can get into the new and ever changing world of golf. People from all backgrounds can relax, work and have fun playing golf here, as Mark Butler says: “No matter who you are, where you come from or what you believe you can or can’t do, the academy sees past labels and tailors the sport to your needs.” And following substantial recent investment there’s never been a better time to pick up a club. “We have a 14 bay, state of the art LED-lit driving range which uses the best Srixon range balls. Our driving range has undergone a complete refurbishment to include new mats, which our clients love.” And there’s still more in the offing: “Our plans for improvement do not end there because we have a new 18 Hole Adventure Mini Golf opening on Monday 29th May. We can’t wait for our newest addition, as we want to make our academy the ultimate family experience. “Already we have a 9 Hole soccer golf course, which has been extremely popular with the local football teams and schools. 148

You can test your football skills for just £3 for nine holes!”  In keeping with the academy’s inclusive ethos it runs three weekly disability classes with a number of different charities and support groups. “Our biggest achievement to date is the incredibly successful Beacon Butler Cup. This competition last year brought together 40 disabled people. Of the 40, 30 of them carried on with the game after we’d finished. And training sessions for the  2017 Cup are due to start in April. “We take great pride in growing the game and in reaching people who would never have imagined playing before.” A perfect pathway into the sport is via group classes, run by professionals Mark Butler and Adam Robinson. For juniors the state of play is rosy also: “We are proud to have one of the biggest junior academies in our area, a team of West Midland

“Our belief in our juniors and the friendly atmosphere we provide makes us a thriving hub of junior golf. We encourage our children to believe in themselves, teach them to work hard, enjoy the game and have fun!” Check out Mark Butler Golf Academy’s Facebook and Twitter accounts to see the juniors in action. See the website www. themarkbutleracademy.co.uk for days and times of group golf classes. And when your time on the range is over be sure to leave room for the culinary delights on offer from ‘Bobby’s Bistro’, the academy’s newest addition which opened in April. Stuart who runs the bistro has a passion for coffee and sources some of the best coffee beans available from local suppliers. If you want to taste the best coffee in the area please pop in and judge for yourself! If you fancy something more substantial there is fresh food and homemade cakes all prepared daily.

Stuart’s rustic homemade chips and beef burgers are “a must” – and he makes a mean Club sandwich as well. The bistro is open to everyone not only golfers!

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

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www.themarkbutlergolfacademy.co.uk | 01902 880503 The Mark Butler Golf Academy | @The_MBGA Sandyfields Road, Sedgley, Dudley DY3 3DL www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

*Lessons to be booked in advance, offer ends 31st July 2017.

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Photographs courtesy of Designer Photography

Social Scene

Searcy’s The Balcony Selfridges, Birmingham

The second `Keeping It Real’ event in aid of Help Harry Help Others charity took place on 2nd March 2017, with guests enjoying networking, a fashion show, accompanied by a glass of prosecco, served with canapés.

Sponsored by

Libby Walton, Personal Stylist, styled all of the models and presented the show along with Ed James from Heart FM. The Fashion Show consisted of a range of `keeping it real’ looks from casual to chic, modelled by ‘real women’, whose lives have been touched by cancer. Selfridges provided the models clothes, with Libby showcasing their extensive range from Primark

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A fresh approach to Dentistry

to Valentino. GHD styled the model’s hair and makeup was provided by Bobbi Brown within Selfridges. Gastro Card was partner promoting the event. Guests enjoyed a raffle with fabulous prizes and also received a special Goodie Bag from the evening. The event raised over £580 for Help Harry Help Others. 1. Barbara Perry, Bev Davenport,Valta Rainbow. 2. Tafadzwa Mushipe, Georgie Moseley. 3. Ed James, Danielle Lloyd, Sally Bowen, Jo Waddell, Libby Walton. 4. Ed James, Danielle Lloyd. 5. Gill Moore, Sue Fennell, Michelle Davies. 6. Ellie Hayter, Janine Hayter. 7. Dave Fellows, Libby Walton. 8. Melanie Rowley, Karen Walker. 9. Sandra Murray, Jo Waddell, Sally Bowen. 10. Lizzie Allister, Vanessa Dixon, Ashley Dixon, Linda Baker. 11. Bev Davenport , Nikki Singh, Emma Dowling. 12. Models - Mandy Latif, Georgie Moseley, Julie Revitt, Ann Moore. wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Social Scene

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Social Scene

Porsche Wolverhampton

Porsche Wolverhampton hosted a VIP night to launch the new association with Chris Jewkes Fitness and Heaven Skincare. The champagne reception was attended by over 120 guests and was a great success. Future events are planned throughout the year.

Sponsored by

1. Simon Priest, Deborah Mitchell, Chris Jewkes. 2. Karen Price, David Price.

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3. Sarah Fiddler, Claire Fiddler, Jackie Green. 4. Cora Rees, Mark Rees. 5. Sharon Plevin, Ken Sheffield. 6. Royston Blythe, Jo Bridgwood, Malcolm Bridgwood. 7. Steph Jones, Catharine Hammond. 8. Di Jones, Neville Clements. 9. Royston Blythe, Deborah Mitchell. 10. Derek Weatherhogg, Nadine Green. 11. Nicola Carrera, Carole Ragonesi. 12. Tarnia Davies, Anita Russell, Tracy Doughty. 13. Mark Rees, William Rees, Katherine Brueton.

A fresh approach to Dentistry

14. Terri Jewkes, Richard Barnfather, Fiona Swann, Libby Walton. 15. Sadie Simpson, Tasha Phipps. wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Social Scene

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

Social Scene

Ladies Link Albrighton

the theme. Funds were raised for the local Messy Church group and a local breast cancer charity.

Ladies Link Albrighton organised a relaunch evening following a lull in activity, having assembled a new committee. Their first event was held on Wednesday 15th March 2017 at St Mary’s Church Centre, Albrighton.

Sponsored by

Around 60 guests attended a charity dinner with musical entertainment. It coincided with International Women’s week which was part of

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A fresh approach to Dentistry

The ladies enjoyed singing along and dancing with Rat Pack style singer Paul Drakeley. The evening turned out to be a great success. 1. Tracey Read, Debbie Bradshaw, Josie Fisher, Mel Drakeley, Lydia Radigan, Vanessa Bentley, Deborah Williams-Ruth. 2. Isabella Ashman, Sheila Stewart. 3. Jenny Sawbridge, Pam Slater. 4. Zoe Ross, Sara Bowater, Marita Morrison. 5. Pam Bradshaw, Tami Murray, Debbie Bradshaw. 6. Rachael Churm, Gill Churm. 7. Kate Elmore, Joyce Colley, Ann Williams. 8. Judith Ragdale, Jill Griffiths, Meg Collins, Ann Foluger, Isabella Ashman, Jenny Hartwright. wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Social Scene

The Oakley Arms Brewood

Their full range can be bought via the website, please visit www.soulcandles.co.uk

Soul Candles launched their full range of organic, hand poured aromatherapy candles and new website at The Oakley Arms in Brewood on Friday 17th March 2017.

3. Jo Cowlishaw, Faye Pugh.

They also welcomed Guerlain’s Wolverhampton team and catering by The Village in Codsall. Friends and business partners Sarah Duncan and Gemma Vujnovic are excited to showcase Soul’s range. Each scent has been chosen to impact on an individual’s wellbeing as well as looking beautiful in the home. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

1. Gemma Vujnovic, Sarah Duncan. 2. Emma Woolley, Lucy Dunn. 4. Penny Whittingham, Priya Jassal. 5. Annie Barrett, Dawn Hobbs, Tracy Leonard, Claire Brown. 6. Amber Byrne, Louise Smith, Charlotte Lloyd, Karen Westbrook. 7. Jane Smith, Charles Smith. 8. Mal and Gemma Vujnovic, Sarah and John Duncan. 155

The Restoration Man Alan beside the powerful v8 Mustang

Rob Taylor gets to the nuts and bolts of why car nut Alan Bradshaw is nuts about cars. Modern cars are boring. Modern cars are soulless. Modern cars are just overly complex white goods. This is a prevailing opinion nowadays as we steer ever closer towards total gridlock. And from where I’m sitting, which is behind the wheel of a classic 1978 Ford Escort Mexico, I’m inclined to agree.

cars – they rarely breakdown or rust – but there’s no way anybody will be found at home in a garage, tinkering under the bonnet after 10pm on a 2017 Ford Focus, 40 years from now. But that’s exactly where you’ll find Fast Ford fan and all-round car enthusiast and restorer Alan Bradshaw most nights – especially if it’s car show season. It’s where I find him today, surrounded by metal – two Ford Escort RS Mexico’s, a RS1600i

and a v8 Mustang take prominence – in his recently extended garage space. It’s easy to see why he requires the extra space. Managing Director of prominent building firm Three Pines when he’s not in his overalls, Alan has a sensational array of classic cars at his home in Codsall Wood and has been into cars ever since he was out of short pants. “My collecting started with a Mark II Escort RS Mexico. I bought it with

The thrill of keeping the rebuilt 1.6 litre 125 bhp engine ‘on cam’ and nestled into the sweetspot, never relying on a surfeit of torque to make progress, while experiencing a charming supply of chatter through the steering wheel and an inimitable thrum from the modest powerplant is electric. Other drivers honk and salute my presence. Driving this car is an event. When it comes to cars, yesterday was and is better. Of course there’s a necessary functionality to modern 156

Alan with the latest addition to the family, a 1983 Porsche 911 3.2 Carrera

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

2500 were built during 1975 and 1978 it’s not hard to imagine why. The Mark II is a genuine cult classic, the last fast Escort belonging to a golden era of simplicity of design and engineering. “I have a white Mark III RS 1600i, which like my green Mexico has a rebuilt engine, but there’s a level of complexity to it – such as with the fuel injection and twin coils – that can be off-putting when it comes to doing work yourself at home.” Immaculate engine compartment in the Ford Mexico

a view to doing only minimal work before transforming it back into the one I remember owning in the 1980s,” say Alan, with real warmth and enthusiasm. A rummage through a potted history of the vehicle turns up an old photo showing Alan and his wife Louise beside a then-new Mk II 1600 Sport, resplendent in Signal Green. After admitting to me that he’s probably on some level “trying to recapture his youth” and the Mexico he bought three years ago was patently orange and not green (“people said I was mad!”), he goes on to highlight some of the pitfalls involved in classic car ownership. “I’ve only been doing the restoration projects for around 4 years but I’ve learned so much. I was quite naïve at first. Buying directly from websites like eBay can be a risk. My first Mexico needed a lot more work than I’d expected.” This is understatement in the extreme as photos charting the vehicle’s history in Alan’s care point to a serious amount of work indeed, but get it right and the rewards are legion. “It basically had to be taken back to just a shell and gutted. As with most Seventies cars, the culprit is rust. You have to be so careful when you buy but it’s all well worth it.” Top-notch examples of Alan’s Mexico can change hands for upwards of £40,000 and since just

There’s a deep sense of achievement involved in taking part directly in the restoration process and much ensuing pride – especially when Alan shows his cars at various local car festivals. “My wife, son-in-law and I will be driving to Weston Park Classic Car show on Easter Monday. We’ll then sit beside the cars on our deckchairs, fielding questions from interested parties – at a show at Shugborough Hall one year we had about 30 people clamouring to see the car, I felt like I’d talked non-stop all day.” Unlike some OCD car fanatics who obsess about recreating vehicles exactly as they once were, Alan’s philosophy is more relaxed (unless he’s cleaning his cars: “I once cleaned one – which was basically brand-new, by the way – for four hours; drove it, then cleaned it again.”). He continues: “I put in power steering on my green Mexico because I’d hurt my shoulder at the time; I’ve also swapped out the original 4-speed gearbox for a 5 and added the odd non-factory bit of garnish here and there – particularly with the exhaust system. But I’d say it’s still sympathetic. More ‘my spec’ than ‘factory spec’.” So what’s next for Mr Fast Ford? The answer is both surprising and familiar. “A 1983 Porsche 911 3.2 Carrera, although this one only needs some paint correction…” Famous last words...

A family of Fords

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E x p loding Myths

with C4 tarmac tragedies - in spite of its large 18” ‘Python’ alloys. The clever automatic gearbox on this model is a helpful and willing partner that never detracts from the journey and the ergonomically beautiful cabin bestows all modern techluxury - air-conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth etc - without impacting upon aesthetics.

By Rob Taylor A week spent driving a new car can do much to explode preconceptions. When I drive a Audi A4 I don’t feel a God-given right to bully other road users out of my way. When I drive a Range Rover Evoque I don’t feel like a Cheshire housewife. When I drive a Honda Jazz I don’t inherit a predilection for wearing leather driving gloves. My week with Citroen’s latest entry into the Picasso canon – the Grand C4 Picasso – has left me again convinced that no car should be reduced to caricature. For too long I haven’t paid much attention to what I still call “people-carriers”. Undoubtedly it’s because I remember riding in the first-gen Renault Espace when I was a boy: it never set my pants on fire quite like the Escort Cosworth, which belonged to the father of my mate Dan. 158

Until recently I maintained that style and fashion is just for young people. At length I’d bore my long-suffering girlfriend, Nicola, with how it has no business in the lives of people who have mortgages, children and mother-in-laws. Already I feel the creeping hand of middle-age upon my shoulder, so my time for choosing form over function has to be behind me. Style and practicality do not make good bedfellows. You can’t have comfort and have fun. You can’t have your cake and eat it. Or so I said. This seven seat MPV from Citroen is a modern day marvel and it has made me eat my words. It is achingly stylish given its bulk. As my days with the C4 rolled by I became increasingly bewitched by its poise, drivability and grace, convincing myself that it was actually getting smaller externally while conversely getting bigger internally. Comfort is king in this Flair Blue HDi 120 EAT6 automatic version. A well-suspended ride insulates driver and family from everyday

The C4’s 2 litre diesel 148bhp powerplant happily pulls its weight about town and on longer motorway cruises, where it has a generous surfeit of 300 Nm of torque, always available. Furthermore it controls its large body mass very well when things get twisty and it steers with precision. Allied to this is reasonable fuel costs: the official number is 74.3 mpg combined (I achieved 59.8 mpg), and Co2 emissions are 106g/km. A basic on-the-road price of £28,700 isn’t bad either. If comfort is King, then convenience is Queen. Every imaginable gadget makes mincemeat of every motoring malady: there’s everything from parking sensors and a handsfree opening tailgate to electric seat massaging functions and a ‘Child observation mirror’. There’s room for all the family and half of your next-door neighbours’ too. All will enjoy ample head and rear legroom and supportive seating. Fido will be happy as well because with the full seven seats disengaged, boot space is officially measured at 2181 litres, which is code for “absolutely massive.” It’s probably big enough to hire out for children’s parties. This Grand C4 Picasso really is all things to all men – its style and flair has blown away all of the hot air I espoused previously. I used to think parking in the C4 was a cinch too, until I pulled a nonchalant parallel manoeuvre and scuffed a virgin alloy wheel. Oh well. Pride always comes before a fall.

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Unlock your engine’s true performance

with ECU Remapping

Your car’s Engine Control Unit, or ECU for short, is the brain of the engine.

• Increased horsepower – by removing existing limitations

• Better throttle response – through smoother power delivery • Safer overtaking – sharper accelerating gives you peace of mind

It reads, understands and makes decisions to deliver the correct mixture of fuel and air to provide the best mix of economy, performance and emission control. At HiQ Wolverhampton, we can remap it to maximise your car’s potential.

Why don’t car makers fine-tune their own ECU? You’re probably thinking, if it’s so good, why aren’t manufacturers doing it already? The simple answer is they are – but then they deliberately limit the engine’s performance to meet stringent restrictions in other countries around the world. We basically just unrestrict it.

Benefits of ECU Remapping: ECU Remapping will improve power and torque figures, increase throttle response and widen the powerband, resulting in a more flexible engine and a much sharper drive. Here are just some of the benefits: • Improved fuel economy – extra torque at the bottom of the rev range requires less throttle on acceleration

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For more information on how you can maximise your car’s performance, please contact Simon, Mac or Emma at HiQ Wolverhampton on 01902 420234.

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wolverhampton wolverhampton west west magazine magazine || may may 2017

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Image Luxury Travel 123 Perton & Bridgnorth Travel 92 Audio & TV Acoustic Boutique 13 Bathrooms Eaton Kitchens 27 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 29 Beauty Salons Heaven Skin Care 99 Simply Beautiful 93/102 Beauty Clinics – Cosmetic Cosmetique Aesthetic Clinic 93 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Cousins 8/9 Merridale Furnishers 15 Bedroom Wardrobes (fitted) 35 Dream Doors Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 29 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Love Your Blinds 17/39 Merridale Furnishers 15 Val Hever Blinds 26 Building Services & Contractors 51 MBH Builders Three Pines 45 Butchers Allan Bennett 74 Poxons 74 Caravan Accessories Cannock Caravan Accessories 65 Car Body Repairs 160 Elite Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists Touch Dry 59 Carpets & Flooring - Supply & Fit 39 1st Choice Flooring Premier Carpets 37 Sandford Carpets 19 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 26 Car Sales & Service 163 Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton Children’s Charity Promise Dreams 71 Chiropody & Podiatry Tom Casey 120/138 Cleaning Services – Interior & Exterior Able Facilities Services 51 DCS (Drive Cleaning Services) 53 RC Cleaning 52 Superclean 63 Composite Doors Doorsmart 36 Computer Services Finchfield IT 62 Delicatessen 63 Corbelli Dentistry Parkdale Dentures 117 Parkdale Implants 2 Diet & Slimming Cambridge Diet 109 Driveway Resindrives.co.uk 21 Education Newbridge School 132 St. Dominics 135 Tettenhall College 131

Electricians & Electrical Contractors 43 Central Electrical Contracts Excel Electrical Contractors 49 Entertainment & Leisure 69 Enjoy Wolverhampton Kinver Country Fayre 75 Estate Agents Berriman Eaton 11 Fashion & Retail Aristocats 94/95 Fencing & Gates Profence 58 Fireplaces & Stoves Flaming Fires 17 Wolverhampton Fireplaces 15 Financial Advisors 136/137 Midland Independent Financial Services Fitness & Leisure Centres Chris Jewkes Fitness 107 South Staffordshire Leisure 119 WV Active 115 Furniture & Furnishings Cousins 8/9 15 Merridale Furnishers Ralvern 40/41 Sofa Factory Outlet 31 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 26 Garage Refurbishment Services Danmarque Garages 48 Garage Services HiQ Tyres 159 Garden Design Boningale Garden Creations 55 Gardening & Landscaping Keepers Lane Nursery 52 Lealans Garden Centre 54 The Potting Shed 52 Glass & Hardware Specialists 47 Tech Alum System Glazing Repairs Blakes Glass & Glazing 50 Golf Clubs 3 Hammers Golf Complex 146/147 Mark Butler Golf Academy 149 Oxley Golf Club 141 South Staffordshire Golf Club 143 Wrottesley Golf Club 140 Hairdressers Salon 27 106 Health Care Cover Paycare 125 Hospices Compton Hospice 90 Hospitals – Private Nuffield 110 Hotels Mount Hotel 77 Park House Hotel 81 Italian Deli Corbelli’s 63 I.T. Media & Communications Concero 129 Jewellers T.A.Henn 6/7 Kitchen Doors - Replacement Dream Doors 33

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Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit 23 Bespoke Kitchens Dream Doors 33 Eaton Kitchens 27 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 29 Legal Services Manby Bowdler Solicitors 123 Letting Agents Berriman Eaton 11 Lighting Lighting R Us 43 Loft Ladders Lyndale 27 Music Lessons 63 M2K Music School Rick Hampton 63 Opticians Taylor Biddle 101 Orthopaedic Surgery Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic 121 Painters & Decorators Kevin Jackson 58 Patrick Bellew 59 Personal Fitness Training Chris Jewkes 107 Photography Crescent Imaging 123 Plumbing & Heating JB Plumbing & Heating 58 Restaurants/Pubs Cowshed 83 Halfpenny Green Vineyards 79 Mount Hotel 77 Park House Hotel 81 Sir Jack’s 81 The Oakley Arms 80 The Shrewsbury Arms 87 Wombourne Tandoori 80 Skip Hire Wolverhampton Skip Hire 59 Stairs & Stair Components Lyndale 27 Tea Rooms/Afternoon Tea Halfpenny Green Vineyards 79 Park House Hotel 81 Theatres The Grand Theatre 164 Tiles & Interiors Heart of Stone 26 Tile Choice 5 Tyres HiQ Tyres 159 Vein Clinics Simon Hobbs 103 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Vineyards 79 Wallpaper, Paints & Decorator Accessories S J Dixon & Son 19 Website Design Wolverhampton West Magazine 127 Wedding Venues Mount Hotel 77 Park House Hotel 81 Windows, Conservatories, Orangeries Tettenhall Windows 23

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MERCEDES-BENZ

REVEALS PRICING AND SPECIFICATION FOR NEW E-CLASS COUPÉ

The new MercedesBenz E-Class Coupé is now on sale with prices starting from £40,135 for the E 220 d. The E 300 is available from £41,025, while the E 400 4MATIC starts from £50,775. The E-Class Coupé is available with a choice of one diesel and two petrol engines. The E 220 d features a 2.0-litre diesel engine, capable of generating 194 hp and 400 Nm. It emits just 119 g/km of CO2 and can achieve up to 61.4 mpg on the combined cycle. It can reach 62 mph from standstill in 7.4 seconds. The E 300 uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an output of 245 hp and maximum torque of 370 Nm. It emits 160 g/ km of CO2 and delivers up to 40.4 mpg, while it can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 6.4 seconds. The E 400 4MATIC has a biturbo 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine generating 333 hp and 480 Nm, while emitting 189 g/km of CO2 and delivering up to 33.6 mpg. It can reach 62 mph from standstill in 5.3 seconds. The new E-Class Coupé is available in one highly-equipped trim line: AMG Line. Standard specification includes sports exhaust system (E

300 only); 19-inch five-twin-spoke alloy wheels; high performance LED headlights and tail lights; parking pilot including parking sensors and reversing camera; belt feeder; Magic Vision Control; ambient lighting with a choice of 64 colours; 8.4-inch infotainment screen with Garmin navigation system (Comand Online with 12.3-inch screen is standard on E 400 4MATIC); split folding rear seats; Active Brake Assist; steering wheel-mounted touchpads; Artico and Dinamica upholstery and heated front seats. The Premium equipment line is optionally available for £2,795 and includes Memory package; panoramic sunroof; and Keyless Go comfort package. The Premium Plus equipment line (£3,895) adds Multibeam LED intelligent light system and Burmester surround sound system. The Lane Tracking package is available for £595 and includes Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist. The £1,695 Driving Assistance package includes Drive Pilot; Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function; Evasive Steering Assist; and Pre-Safe Plus. Drive Pilot includes Steering Pilot; Active Lane Change Assist; Active Emergency Stop Assist; Distance Pilot

Distronic; and Speed Limit Pilot (in conjunction with Comand Online). Comand Online is available for £1,495 (standard on E 400 4MATIC) and adds a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. When combined with the £495 12.3-inch cockpit display, this creates a widescreen cabin effect. Air Body Control air suspension is available for £1,495 (standard on E 400 4MATIC). In conjunction with the Premium or Premium Plus packages and the 360° camera, customers can also opt for Remote Parking Pilot which allows the vehicle to be parked using a smart phone. To activate Remote Parking Pilot, an £89 subscription (valid for three years) must be purchased from the Mercedes Connect me store. Peter Smith, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton added “We’re delighted to welcome the new E-Class Coupe to the showroom. Each model line has ample specification and there’s one to suit every customer. As a team, we always look forward to introducing the new models to our customers and I believe the new E-Class Coupe will prove popular with our customers. To book a test drive, simply call us on 01902 427897 today.”

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 4HD 162

wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton.

Endless possibilities with the brand new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé. With AMG styling, LED high performance headlamps and 19” AMG alloy wheels, the new E-Class Coupé is the ultimate head turner. A choice of high performance engines, exceptional comfort and typical Mercedes styling makes for an exceptional car that is in a class of its own.

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton Penn Road, Wolverhampton WV2 4HD Call us on 01902 238740

Model shown is an AMG Line E-Class Coupé. Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the E-Class Coupé range: urban 25.2(11.2)-55.4(5.1), extra urban 42.2(6.7)-67.3(4.2), combined 33.6(8.4)-61.4(4.6). CO2 emissions 189-119 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors.

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GREAT SHOWS COMING UP AT WOLVERHAMPTON GRAND THEATRE TUE 6 – SAT 10 JUNE

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wolverhampton west magazine | may 2017

Wolverhampton West Magazine - May 2017