Wolverhampton West Magazine - September 2019

Wolverhampton West Magazine Local Magazine delivered to 25,000 Selected Homes and Businesses*

■■ Home Interiors ■■ Fashion, Hair & Beauty ■■ Eating Out & Entertainment ■■ Education

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September 2019

September 2019

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

And then you will read this last...

And since we now know each other, why not call us on 01902 324230 to make an appointment.

You will read this first And then you will read this Then this one

info@willowsdental.co.uk www.willowsdental.co.uk 02

5 Ounsdale Road, Wombourne, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV5 9JE wolverhampton west magazine

Willows Dental & Implant Centre

Smiling Single So it’s the time of year when we’re supposed to be writing articles about wedding smile makeovers but what about if you're not getting married? What if you’re single, awesome and fabulous?

Surely you deserve a new smile too. So for all of you who’ve picked up this wedding issue but just want to be the best you can be and have a beautiful smile here’s what we can do for you. Whether you’re out on the social scene or looking for a companion your smile is one of the first things that people are attracted to.

So what can you do to improve it? Well, a diamond polish clean is a good start. Our gentle team of hygienists can certainly give you the fresh look, getting rid of the stains from the outside of your teeth, freshening your breath and giving you the confidence to eat, smile, kiss and connect with anyone you choose to engage with.

So what next? Well, over time stain builds up not just on the outside of teeth but on the inside too with our bespoke whitening systems we can whiten your teeth comfortably, safely and effectively.

But what about the metal fillings? Okay, we can get rid of those remnants of dentistry gone by, using the latest techniques in modern dentistry. Your new white fillings will be long lasting, comfortable and beautiful.

So we’ve cleaned them, whitened them, got rid of those unsightly metal fillings, you now want them straighter? No problem, we can straighten them invisibly, comfortably and in around six months.

How does that sound?

Missing teeth are no problem either, we have the closest thing to replacing your natural teeth available to us, Dental Implants. With everything done in house and the ability to spread the investment at 0% interest it means you don’t even have to save up, you can have it now.

Wait. So we’ve got your smile looking spectacular and now you want to look even younger. Ok so we’re not one of those places that will create an artificial look but if you want some natural fine line removal and maybe just to redefine the upper and lower lines of your lips, then we can do that too.

And if you want all of this carried out and you don’t want to feel or remember having any of it done, we can do that too with advanced sedation techniques. You can have your new smile without you even feeling a thing.

So there it is. We know we’re writing this in the wedding edition of this magazine, but we care about our all of our potential clients whatever your marital status. So if you’re single and awesome, or engaged and due to be married and you want to have the confidence to eat, smile, kiss and connect, then contact us on the details below and one of our award winning team will arrange for us to look after you.

Call us now on 01902 324230

Or email us at info@willowsdental.co.uk

We enable our clients to Eat, Smile, Kiss and Connect to give them the confidence to lead extraordinary lives. We offer 0% finance and experienced friendly gentle clinicians that you can trust in a pleasant environment with easy parking.

5 Ounsdale Road, Wombourne, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV5 9JE

www.willowsdental.co.uk www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

03

CONTENTS

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44

12 The local property market by Nick Berriman 14 All-star Autograph Assortment 26 Weeping Bank Productions continues to terrify audiences 28 Wolverhampton West 41 Club 32 Crosswords & Puzzles 34 Recipe of the month 40 The Pattingham Bells Run 44 Grand Theatre Competition

48-49

58 Gardening with Ann Winwood 60 Willows Dental supporting Elle’s Angels 66/67 Paycare in the community 78/79 Halfpenny Green food review 82 The Courtyard competition 84 Another plentiful harvest at Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 94/95 Royston Blythe: More competition success 102/103 Women’s fashion: Fall in Love - Amazing Autumn Looks

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110-117 Social Scene 138 Rotary Clubs of Wolverhampton: Young Citizens awards 140 Golf Tip 144 Answers to crosswords and puzzles 145 Index to advertisers 146 Mercedes-Benz A-Class The saloon reimagined 04

66-67 wolverhampton west magazine

Congratulations to: Winners of the Grand Theatre competition to see Cabaret Richard Stamp, Perton Gary Lloyd, Brewood Winners of the meal for 2 at The Oakley Arms Janice Williams, Tettenhall Lauren Thornett, Codsall Winners of the Wolverhampton Racecourse competition to see Madness or Jess Glynne Mel Giles, Tettenhall Wood Hazel Cowie, Brewood

92-93

94-9592-93

78-79

110-117

142 90-91 Wolverhampton West Magazine Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Wolverhampton West Magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Wolverhampton West Magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise without the prior consent of Wolverhampton West Magazine Ltd.

*Total distribution 25,000 copies across 2 months

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

146-147 Advertising enquiries Gisella Wiley, Sales Director (sales@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk) Editorial/What’s On information Geoff Hall, Editor (info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk) Magazine Design Studio 28 Design & Print (studio@s28.co.uk) 05

From the EDITOR

Summer’s almost over, folks!

That’s the message you’ll be receiving loud and clear as you thumb through the forthcoming pages. It is full steam ahead into autumn.

Children will soon be heading back to school and the next Brexit deadline looms large on the horizon. But before we delve into that abyss, let’s look back at everybody’s favourite season, summer.

Our cricketers won the World Cup (can we now back it up with an Ashes victory perhaps?). We picked up a new Prime Minister. We went – almost – cold turkey on our nation’s favourite sport (don’t worry football fans, the new season is already upon us, so come on you Baggies… ahem, I mean, Wolves!). And we notched up our hottest ever July day on record, when the mercury smashed through the 38 degrees mark. Not a bad year then, although autumn will soon be upon us, without further ado let’s roll right into it.

There may be a lot fewer holidays to look forward to but you won’t be bored as attention turns inwards towards the home. So, to you I say: it’s time to make like Beatrix Potter’s Mrs Tittlemouse and get stuck into some pre-Christmas titivating. As ever, our advertisers have got everything covered in this regard, from big stuff – 3 Pines Building Company can do it all and from scratch – to medium – like Orangeries – and all the way down to small home improvements as well.

Then, once the dust settles, there is a lot to look at in the way of home furnishings and especially carpets too, from Sandford and Premier Carpets.

Sandford Carpets do curtains too.

Don’t forget that it’s curtains if you don’t book in for Christmas events right around now. Even if you loathe planning ahead, another year of Aunt Bessie making her own Yorkshire puds just won’t do, so get it done early or woe betide you. We’ve got loads 06

I love asking kids what they want to be when they grow up because I’m still looking for ideas.

of eating-out options for the then and the now: look no further than our restaurant review of Halfpenny Green Wine Estate for proof of that.

If all this talk of Christmas has you feeling poor already, then why not blag a free meal or a trip to the theatre on us? (Don’t feel guilty, our food and entertainment critics do it all the time, the rotters!) We have competitions for you to win a threecourse meal for two at The Courtyard, Wombourne and a night out at The Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton.

Beyond this, it’s all about looking good for the upcoming party season: we have ample sections on Fashion, Hair, (special mention to Royston Blythe on reaching yet another prestigious final) and Beauty (you must read the latest from Deborah Mitchell’s Heaven). And while we’ve got more advice than most it still pales before Wolverhampton West’s very own ace distributor Imre Tolgyesi Stanley’s massive autograph collection. Check it out inside and marvel at a galaxy of star names: Frank Sinatra, Donald Trump and Neil Armstrong all feature.

Continuing… while the schools in our education section can’t count A-listers like those above among their past alumni, they can offer your child a stellar future. And more often than ever before, every day is an open day for prospective parents, so swing by

some of the area’s most successful institutions today. Weddings season is in full swing at the moment too so if your knots’ not already been tied then not looking at wedding dresses from The Dressing Rooms and Ethereal would be a sin. So too would skirting around our pages on legal advice – nothing in fact could be costlier – or ducking our Social pages, because being sociable in the early run up to Christmas is essential, lest you be branded a Scrooge.

No-one can accuse our featured charitable runners and riders of that, since this year has seen more of us than ever getting into the spirit of fundraising in every conceivable form: read all about Tile Choices’ Jessica Beasley’s Land’s End to John O’ Groats cycle ride, Elle’s Angels, The Pattingham Bells Run and Paycare’s latest efforts for the local community, inside. And watch out also for lots of interesting tips, tricks and trade secrets from our ever-bankable contributors.

We can’t bring back the hot weather, yet you can always bank on us to give you the lighter side of living.

See you in November...

Geoff

wolverhampton west magazine

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11

The local

property market

by Nick Berriman

Enough of all that so what of the property market? I know when people are considering selling one of the factors they take into account is the cost of moving and something that is a worry is stamp duty.

Some years ago the government were saying that it cost more to administer than was collected so there was some hope that it would be abolished. Instead they solved the problem by increasing it severely.

I write this in early August and some of you will not read it until late October so the intervening period could alter all our lives.

I am not going to risk any speculation as by the time the magazine reaches you much more will be known about the outcome of B….t. Some people will be pleased with the eventual result and others will be distraught about exactly the same outcome. My concern, obviously, is about the effect and impact the new circumstances will have on the property market.

We know it has survived all sorts of problems in the past and has recovered and made good any losses made during hard times. To assume it will do the same again would be unwarranted complacency but the history gives one a certain amount of optimism. This is not the place for party politics but as I sit here it seems to me that politicians of all parties need their heads banging together for getting us in this mess.

However, it maybe that by the time I write for the next edition everything will be resolved to our benefit and the future looks rosy. {I think that was a pig that just flew past my window!} 12

Stamp Duty is not charged on the first £125,000 of the purchase price of a residential property but on the next £125,000 it is charged at 2%. From the next part of the price between £250,000 and £925,000 it is charged at 5% and anything between £925,000 and £1.5 million is at 10%. Any part of the price over £1.5 million is at 12%. The parts of the price in each band are added together.

Second homes or buy to let properties over £40,000 are charged an extra 3% on each band. If you buy another property before your own is sold you will come into the higher bands as you then have two properties but if you sell the original property within three years you can claim back the higher rate paid. First time buyers in England and Northern Ireland are exempt up to £300,000 unless the purchase price is over £500,000 when the exemptions do not apply.

We are often asked whether various add ons affect the price and saleability of a property. A swimming pool – indoor or outdoor, a beautiful garden, a conservatory, a lovely view or a few acres of land. The only proper answer is that it depends on the buyer. There is a small development on the outskirts of Wolverhampton where the builders in the 1970’s had recently taken over a local company who built outdoor swimming pools. There were six houses where they included a pool as an advert for their new company.

The gardens were not very big and there were many trees at the rear

and now almost all the pools have been filled in. That is not to say that for a family with small children a pool is not an attraction as it can be a centre for a lot of fun. An indoor pool is a great luxury and is a definite advantage, but maybe not an addition that will ever recoup its cost!

We are just marketing a fine old period property which is listed Grade 2* which is very unusual. It has a particularly beautiful garden and although many younger buyers today are frightened off by the upkeep of such gardens there is little doubt that a property of this calibre needs a fine garden to compliment its unique character and it is something the buyer will appreciate.

Conservatories add to the useable living space and bring the garden into the house. The Georgians put their Conservatories on the north side as they wanted to keep out of the sun but that is something we have changed! Land never comes amiss and is an attraction with larger properties. Pony paddocks are always popular with the old adage of one horse per acre.

You will have heard about the sale of Beatties. My elder brother’s firm from London are the agents so the Berriman name continues to be at the forefront of our local market!

Let us hope that the next time we meet in these pages Brexit will be sorted and we will have to find something else to talk about!

wolverhampton west magazine

ShAckERlEy MIllhOUSE AND ShAckERlEy MIll, MIll lANE, AlbRIGhtON, WV7 3ND two adjacent properties of enormous attraction occupying a private situation within grounds of approximately ten acres including a large millpool.

Shackerley Millhouse has a reception hall, cloakroom, drawing room, dining room, garden room, kitchen, utility and laundry, four bedrooms, en-suite shower room and house bathroom. Shackerley Mill has a reception room, cloakroom, utility to the ground floor, open-plan living space with dining area, sitting area and kitchen to the first floor, two bedrooms, en-suite bathroom and en-suite shower room to the second floor and a garage. Separate garage block extensive grounds, waterfall, stream and an orchard. (EPCs F and E).

OFFERS AROUND ÂŁ1,150,000 VIEWING: Please contact the Tettenhall Office.

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

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www.berrimaneaton.co.uk 13

All-Star Autograph Assor tment

Boxing legend Muhammad Ali

USA President Donald Trump

Tettenhall resident and our very own – Wolverhampton West magazine distributor - Imre Tolgyesi Stanley has been showcasing his stellar selection of signed photographs of famous faces.

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Famous Actor & Singer Frank Sinatra

Charismatic Entertainer Dean Martin

And while he may not be as famous as the faces contained within his collection, the retired day centre officer for Wolverhampton Social Services has an incredible story of his own.

The formidable collection, which includes Neil Armstrong, Billy Wright and Frank Sinatra, tells the story of how accessible the rich and famous once were. Back before selfies with celebrities on the street, the pen was mightier; but, only if you knew exactly which one to use, as Imre reveals:

Eight-year-old Imre and his mother escaped Soviet invasion of his native Hungary in 1956 (a fact later honoured in 2017 when Imre was awarded the Order of Vitez – the equivalent of a British knighthood – in a ceremony in Budapest) and it wasn’t long after settling in the Midlands and learning English that his motivation for writing to the stars began.

“The secret is to make them feel good. Write to them in a fountain pen.”

“I was just a humble person.

I wanted to prove that everyone is approachable.

Top box office Actor John Wayne

By Rob Taylor

Dalai Lama

“I wrote a letter in 1973 to Gerald Ford congratulating him on his presidency. About two months later he wrote a lovely letter back to me with his autograph.”

After that Imre’s interest was unstoppable (“From that first one I thought, if I can get a reply from the biggest house in the world I can write to anybody!”) and he continued to write to other celebrities for over 20 years. His collection now boasts signed photos addressed personally to him – as well as the letters that accompanied them – including Mother Teresa, John Wayne and the Dalai Lama; Colonel Gaddafi and even Donald Trump.

He has no motivation to sell and hopes to protect the collection for future generations and pass them on to his family. wolverhampton west magazine

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15

advertisement feature

Simple Tax Saving TipS

1. Help to buy ISA For any first time buyers this is a must and for any parents or grandparents who want to assist towards a first property purchase then this is a great way of doing so.

These ISAs are cash-based and set up with most banks.

You can start with an initial amount of £1,200 and save up to £200 per month up to a maximum of £12,000 and, if used towards a deposit on a first property purchase, your solicitor will claim back the tax which results in a 25% uplift.

Please note that to qualify there has to be a minimum amount of £1,600 saved in the ISA.

2. Marriage Allowance For any married couples where one spouse does not fully utilise their personal allowance and the other is a basic rate tax payer, you can transfer 10% of the personal allowance which will save £250 in tax this tax year. It can also be backdated to 6th April 2015.

3. Auto-enrolment I am alarmed by the number of employees who have opted out of their employer’s pension scheme thinking that pensions are a waste of money.

Where else can you double your money overnight and even after tax, for every £10 you invest you will receive a return of £17.

For higher rate tax payers the savings are even greater.

4. Nearing retirement, higher rate tax payer? Invest in a pension rather than an ISA For anyone nearing retirement, rather than saving into an ISA, invest your money into a pension and benefit from the tax credit.

For higher rate tax payers, if you invest £60, HMRC pay £40

16

which gives a total contribution of £100. If on retirement you become a basic rate tax payer, after tax, this will return you £85.

5. Non taxpayers contribute to a pension For anyone over the age of 55 with little or no earnings, you can contribute £2,880 per annum into a pension which will attract a HMRC credit of £720, giving a total contribution of £3,600.

You can then withdraw this in its entirety and providing your total income is less than your personal allowance, it will be tax free.

6. Thinking of retiring early? Make sure you utilise your personal allowance in retirement This is particularly appealing for anyone with savings who is still working, does not have any significant retirement provision and is looking to retire in the near future For an example of how this works, I have recently met with new clients where one has retired on his 60th birthday and his spouse is looking to retire in 3 years’ time on or before her wolverhampton west magazine

63rd birthday. She has very little in the way of pension provision and does not receive her state pension until she is 63 however they do have savings and she is currently earning £14,000 per annum.

I have recommended that she contributes £11,200 into her pension from her savings which will attract a HMRC tax credit of £2,800 and I have suggested that she does this for 3 years. When she then retires she can withdraw this money completely tax free as she will not have any other taxable earnings which in effect gives her a 25% uplift on her savings and in these days of low interest rates, for a no risk return this is unbeatable.

in closed funds that are poorly invested giving mediocre returns.

Treat your pensions like you would money in a bank as basically with the new rules that is exactly what it is. The number of new clients I meet who have, in some cases, over £100,000 invested in pensions with companies who are no longer active in the marketplace is staggering so please don’t fall into the trap of thinking your pension is not worth bothering with - do something today?

And finally, not tax related but please review your pensions regularly!

One of my greatest bugbears in life is the number of people who have money saved in pensions and take no interest or can’t be bothered to look at the annual statements when they arrive.

There are so many old style pension contracts still in existence that have expensive annual management charges, poor investment fund choice and offer no post retirement options.

Looking at investment returns in isolation, there are some policies with Phoenix Life that have not paid any bonus since the turn of the century and many more companies have funds invested www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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

John Webb

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

Midland Independent Financial Services 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 17

Cycling from

Land’s End to John O’Groats Jessica Beasley, Digital Marketing Manager at Tile Choice will be embarking on a cycle journey from Land’s End to John O’Groats in September in aid of The Prince’s Trust, aiming to raise £3,000.

Jessica takes up the story: “Having started cycling just over 18 months ago when I signed up to ride from London to Paris in 24 hours to raise money for Mind Charity. This was my first experience of an endurance cycling event, the camaraderie and support from others riders was invaluable as we all helped each other along the way, from fixing each other’s punctures to telling jokes to keep the spirits high when it got tough.

“Cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats is a trip that any keen cyclist will no doubt have on their bucket list. Covering 980 miles cycling through 27 different counties whilst passing through England, Wales and Scotland over 9 days.

The challenge presented by the repeated days in the saddle, cycling over 100 miles each day and camping along the way sounded too good to resist so I have signed up to ride the Deloitte Ride Across Britain and chosen to support their partner charity The Prince’s Trust.

Of course, it is vital to get the training miles in before such a big ride and I’m very lucky to have the support from Tile Choice who not only support me with my training regime

18

but have also pledged to double the money I raise, so please do give generously to this fantastic charity.”

The Prince’s Trust is an ambitious and innovative organisation which believes that every young person should have the chance to embrace exciting opportunities. The Prince’s Trust help 11 to 30-year olds who are unemployed or struggling at school to transform their lives.

Many of these people are in, or leaving, care, facing homelessness, have mental health issues or have been in trouble with the law.

Over £1.4 billion has been returned to society through help for disadvantaged young people over the past 10 years. The free programmes for young people provide both the practical and financial support needed to stabilise their lives whilst developing key skills and boosting their confidence so they too can dream big. Over the next 10 years The Prince’s

Trust plans to help one million more young people to transform their lives by providing them with skills to live, learn and earn.

Ride Across Britain has been an iconic cycle challenge since before the Tour de France, it has and always will be a true test of both stamina and will, whilst passing through the most breathtaking variety of scenery. Whilst there are shorter routes from end to end, the Deloitte RAB is carefully planned to allow riders to appreciate the contours of the country, despite adding some extra miles on each day. From the rugged coastline of Cornwall, to the rolling hills and valleys in the North of England, right up to the barren majesty of the Scottish Highlands.

“We will be challenged by the diverse nature of the landscape but also treated to a range of moorland, green valleys, winding back lanes, stunning yet hilly coastal roads and many historic sites.”

“I’m proud to be supporting the amazing initiatives which The Prince’s Trust provide, their fundraising efforts and donations help to support 50,000 young people into jobs, education or training. Anyone interested in supporting me – no matter how big or small – please head to my Virgin Money Giving page: https://uk.virginmoneygiving. com/JessicaBeasley2 . Thank you to anyone who has supported me so far and to Tile Choice for being incredibly supportive.” wolverhampton west magazine

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

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

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

Mick Moreton, Manager at Wood Saints explains how it works:

turned into firewood and kindling which is also for sale. This work enables us to create jobs, training and volunteering opportunities in wood recycling and retail.”

“We’re cheaper than a skip so construction firms pay us to remove wood from building sites. We take pallets, offcuts, scaffolding boards, floorboards and joists, which we sort, re-sell, or re-use to make products for sale. Wood that can’t be reused is

At the heart of the operation is a 10,000 sq. ft. warehouse, The Wood Depot on Dixon Street, a haven for wood lovers. Looking around it’s easy to see why TV presenter and upcycling entrepreneur, Jay Blades, has already given Wood Saints the thumbs up.

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

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

Reclaimed timber furniture Handmade to order Rustic & industrial chic Dining tables • Coffee tables Bookcases • Sideboards Benches & more VISIT OUR SHOWROOM | Open Monday - Saturday The Wood Depot, Dixon Street, Wolverhampton WV2 2BX 01902 556683 www.woodsaints.com We’re on Facebook 20

wolverhampton west magazine

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

Our Computer Aided Designs will give you the opportunity to experience your new room prior to installation.

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Established over 20 years w w w. e a t o n k i t c h e n d e s i g n s . c o . u k 21

Industry Competition Success for Three Pines

Wolverhampton-based building firm Three Pines Building Co Ltd, already boasts an excellent reputation in the industry but now it has been made official.

The company was awarded the prize for ‘Best New Home’ in the Federation of Master Builders’ (FMB) Midlands Region awards, which were held on Friday 21st June at the Hilton Double Tree, Stratford-upon-Avon.

The company collected the prize for the development of 16 new build homes – ranging from two bed terrace houses to five bed detached properties - which were all uniquely designed and completed with landscaped gardens. Judges were quick to praise Three Pines for their well-constructed development, calling the firm a ‘credit to the FMB’ and recognising their excellent service: ‘Time and time again, we have been impressed with just how far theses builders will go to ensure their client is happy. It is this dedication that we want to celebrate’.

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Since 1999, the Master Builder Awards has been a flagship for high-quality building work, showcasing examples of fantastic craftsmanship, exceptional customer service and building excellence.

wolverhampton west magazine

So, achieving an award is a real accolade.

And, one of the company’s employees, Samuel Wells achieved a special acknowledgment, as he was named ‘Midlands Region Apprentice of the Year’, following the FMB’s national search to find the building industry’s best apprentice.

Sam was described as a ‘great example of the apprenticeship route into the industry’ and his hard work, skill and ability were recognised as he was awarded the coveted prize.

Both Samuel and Three Pines will now go through to compete in the national finals for the chance to win the UK category title. The national ceremony is held at the InterContinental Hotel, Park Lane, London on 20th September.

Good luck from the entire Wolverhampton West Magazine team!

There’s no substitute for quality

Whether you require refurbishment, extensions or new build, Three Pines are building contractors in Wolverhampton, who have the skills and expertise to handle your project from planning through to completion.

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.threepinesbuilders.co.uk

Three Pines Building Co. Limited, Cullwick Court, Cullwick Street, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV1 2UR Phone: 01902 499 919. Email: info@three-pines.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine

WHERE YOUR HOUSE BECOMES A HOME Quality fitted kitchens to suit your budget, it’s well worth making a special trip

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Weeping Bank Productions

continues to terrify audiences For the last three years one theatre company has remained synonymous with horror in the West Midlands.

Weeping Bank Productions has been packing theatres in London, Birmingham and beyond with its original adaptations of A G Smith’s ghost stories. The shows have drawn five-star reviews in the press and praise from the likes of bestselling fantasy author Robin Jarvis and Man Booker author Stephen Kelman as well as legendary Led Zeppelin vocalist Robert Plant.

Alan Birch, who is familiar to audiences for his portrayal of ‘Inspector Drake’ as well as extensive theatre work, plays ‘The Librarian’ in the stage shows.

He was eager to discuss the exciting plans that the company has for the upcoming season. “The audience response to the first two stage shows (An Evening of Delectable Terror and The Walpurgisnacht Hauntings) was overwhelming. We sold out theatres for consecutive nights and had incredible people come and see us like Robert Plant and representatives from both the BBFC & BFI. The shows have evolved over time, incorporating projection screens and special audio and visual effects which have had audiences jumping out of their seats in fright. We will be touring the two original shows again to try and bring that theatrical experience to community halls and other venues in the local area.

This will be a prelude to the release of a new play in the autumn of 2020 called The Curse of Seagrave Oratory. This will be a full-cast theatre production.”

Refusing to rest on its laurels, Weeping Bank Productions will also premiere a brand-new set of stories at Bodenham Arboretum this autumn. “We are doing a special one-off performance of five new stories at Bodenham this year which will take the form of a ghost walk around this incredibly evocative setting.” On top of this Alan Birch has written, produced and directed his second short film ‘The Folly’ under the Weeping Bank banner.

“My first film, ‘End of the Road’ was premiered in 2017 and ‘The Folly’ has been a labour of love over the 26

last two years. We hope to bring this chilling tale to audiences this winter.”

Weeping Bank Productions will also be hosting a horror short-film festival in the Black Country which is open to all. ‘Each film entered needs to exceed no more than five minutes and we are hoping to have a very special guest who will judge these films and select the winning entries. These will then be given a big screen premiere in Kinver on the 25th January.’

A G Smith, the author of Weeping Bank Productions’ ‘An Evening of Delectable Terror’ ‘The Walpurgisnacht Hauntings’ and ‘The Curse of Seagrave Oratory’ has also written several new stories for the Bodenham Ghost Walk and continues to be busy writing novels, comedy sketches and plays. He will be giving a series of readings of his work in

libraries throughout the Black Country this autumn and has just launched a comedy channel on YouTube with his creative partner Rob Whitehouse.

“Rob and I met at Dudley College in 1993 and we began writing and performing sketches whilst we should have been studying for our A’ Levels! This partnership continued for many years until a ten-year hiatus whilst we both concentrated on other projects. It’s a joy to be back writing and performing comedy with Rob again and we are very proud to be launching BTV.2.”

To book a ticket for any of the Weeping Bank Production events or for A.G Smith’s readings please see the tour dates printed below.

These events sell out quickly so to avoid disappointment advance booking is recommended.

To submit a film for consideration in the Black Country Horror Film Festival please call: 01384 396752.

To subscribe to Rob&Al’s comedy channel ‘BTV.2.’ visit: www.youtube.com/channel/UC7GJCM2CTW0NB6e7Jfhr2iw To book tickets for the 2019 tour of Weeping Bank Productions ‘An Evening of Delectable Terror’: • Clap Trap: The Venue, Stourbridge: 30th October: 01384 378808 • Worcester Arts Workshop: 2nd November: 01905 25053 • The Horror of Bodenham (A guided ghost walk around Bodenham Arboretum): November 16th: 01562 852444 A G Smith ghost story readings: • Perton Library, October 24th, Tickets: 0300 111 8000 • Kinver Community Library, November 12th, Tickets: 01384 872348 • Wombourne Library, November 20th, Tickets: 0300 111 8000 • Codsall Library, December 3rd, Tickets: 0300 111 8000 www.weepingbankproductions.co.uk Follow them on Facebook or on Twitter @WeepingBank

wolverhampton west magazine

As seen on...

DIY SOS

Exhibite d at Grand Designs Live Show

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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By Nick Berriman The last time that I wrote an article on behalf of Wolverhampton West 41 Club for this magazine I was announcing the formation of our new club and I’m pleased to say that, as I write this, our club is going from strength to strength!

Since our Charter and formation night in March of this year we have seen our numbers increase and have welcomed several new members to our fold. In times that are seeing membership of service clubs such as ours dwindling it is truly refreshing to experience the depth of support that we are currently receiving.

We have had a business meeting at The Mount Hotel in Tettenhall where we enjoyed a superb meal in the evening and formulated our plans for the forthcoming months. One of

Wo l v e r h a m p t o n

West 41 Club

the primary aims of our club is to raise money for worthwhile causes and we have decided that this year, under the guidance of our chairman Andy Timbrell, we will be supporting two charities which will be a mental health charity and a charity that supports cancer research. Our charitable events will soon start and we are already preparing for our Christmas Sleigh Collection, which we will be undertaking with Wolverhampton Round Table No. 17, and which will see us treading the streets of Pattingham, Codsall and Perton with Father Christmas on his sleigh and with our collection boxes in our hands! It seems crazy to be planning the Christmas fundraising strategies in August, but it is amazing how time flies!

Alongside raising money our second and equally important aim is that of continued fellowship. To this end we have recently spent an evening in Trysull having a barbeque and clay pigeon shoot which was

enjoyed by all, even if some of us were not quite as good a shot as we might have believed! We also ventured to The Wolverhampton Company of Archers Club at Wergs Hall Road in Tettenhall to try our hand at archery. Much like with the clay pigeon shoot, not everyone was quite as good as they might have hoped but it was exceptionally enjoyable and a few drinks at The Crown on The Wergs was a fitting end to the evening.

You may find yourself asking ‘Should I join?’ or ‘Would I be welcome?’. As long as you are over 41 years of age and would like to be part of a fundraising and fellowship club, ‘Yes’ you would be welcome and ‘Yes’ you should join! 41 Club forms part of the “Round Table Family” and there are around 725 clubs in the UK and Eire with a membership of some 14,500 together with 28 countries affiliated to “41 Club International”.

As a club that is currently still finding our feet we look forward to keeping you updated in months to come about our progress. If anyone is interested in finding out more about what we do please feel free to contact me at nick.berriman@berrimaneaton.co.uk for further information!

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wolverhampton west magazine

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Bigger than you think Looks can be deceiving, and if you have never set foot inside Sandford Carpets before you’d be forgiven for thinking that the Trysull Road-based business is merely a small shop.

Take a look inside though, and you’ll find a vast showroom that’s complete with a huge selection of roll stock carpets, curtains, flooring, rugs and soft furnishings.

As manager Kim explains: “We’ve got a huge range of carpets and flooring at our showroom that suit all requirements and budgets. Customers are amazed when they see our enormous warehouse - that’s stocked with 90 rolls of carpet – and always comment on our low prices.”

In fact, the company has reached an impressive milestone this year and, to celebrate the showroom has been treated to a brand-new look.

“We’re celebrating 30 years in business this year, which is a massive achievement, and, to mark the anniversary we have completely refurbished our showroom.”

There are carpets from the all of the top brands at Sandford, like Brintons, Ulster and Westex, as well as a choice of wooden, vinyl, engineered and Karndean flooring.

Kim and Gary

As an independent business, it’s hard to believe that the company can be so competitive when it comes to pricing, but Kim and her husband Gary have proved time and time again that they’re more than able to beat the competition.

“We work really hard to ensure our customers get the best products and service at the best price. Gary provides the quotes and our specialist team of fitters handle the installations.”

The showroom is also well-stocked with beautiful fabrics, soft furnishings, artwork and gifts.

“We have fabrics from well-known companies, Villa Nova, Clarke and Clarke, PT, Voyage, Crowson, Linwood plus many more, our seamstress makes fabulous curtains and coverings for clients.”

Customers will also find a good range of wadding, bump, interlining, fusible, blackout lining, cotton sateen lining, tie backs, curtain poles, upholstery fabrics and pattern books.

A range of blinds are supplied and expertly fitted by the company too.

“Our clocks, pictures and accessories are perfect for completing any room and our unique personalised gifts make the ideal present.”

“We’re stockists of Kadai Firebowls, which are becoming a really popular alternative to the traditional barbecue,” adds Kim. So, whether you’re looking for carpets and flooring, fabulous fabrics or even just a special gift, pay a visit to Sandford Carpets today.

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wolverhampton west magazine

You will find us at:

128 Trysull Road, Bradmore, Wolverhampton WV3 7JF Tel: 01902 335599 www.sandfordcarpetsandcurtains.co.uk Open: Tuesday to Saturday 9am until 5pm

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Crossword Across 1 Designate (6) 5 Spooky (6) 8 Pitiful, feeble (8) 9 Outlay, expenditure (4) 10 Adamant (4) 11 Pamphlets (8) 12 Posture (6) 13 Friendlier (6) 15 Guarded, protected (8) 18 Dock, wharf (4) 19 Shadow, stalk (4) 20 D.H. ________, author of Sons and Lovers (8) 21 Cure, solution (6) 22 Vibrate, jangle (6)

Puzzle answers on page 144 Down 2 An unexpected affront (4,2,3,4) 3 Savage, cruel (7) 4 _______ Wood, Hollywood actress (7) 5 Chocolate drink (5) 6 Transcend, shine (5) 7 Children’s party game (4,3,6) 13 A man whose wife is dead (7) 14 Polite demand (7) 16 _____ Simmonds, Paralympic swimmer (5) 17 Adjourn, postpone (5)

Sudoku How to play Sudoku It’s simple!

Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.

You don’t need to be a genius.

These puzzles use logic alone.

Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.

Word Search Can you find all of the palindromic words hidden in the grid? aga bib civic dad deed dewed eve kayak madam mallam marram minim mum naan noon poop 32

racecar radar redder repaper reviver revver rotator rotavator rotor sees sexes solos succus tenet toot wolverhampton west magazine

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RE C I PE Crispy macaroni cheese

This can be served as a canape or as a main for a bowl food/tapas event or a comforting snack.

Preparation time: 1 hour MAKES: 20-25 portions Ingredients • 250g x macaroni pasta • 50g x butter or margarine • 50g x plain flour • 100 ml x milk • 50g x cheddar cheese, to taste • 10g x parmesan cheese • 1 x tsp. English mustard • 1x tsp. chopped chives Method 1. Cook pasta in boiling salted water until cooked, then run under cold water and leave to drain.

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2. Make your thick cheese sauce, melted butter first then add flour, make sure you turn the heat down and allow to cook out, add milk in 3 stages mixing well until velvety smooth every time.

3. Add remaining ingredients, season with salt and pepper, then taste taste, taste. Did you know some chef’s use Worcester sauce? Chefs tip: always add warm milk as this speeds up the cooking time of your bechamel sauce, a wooden or plastic spoon is all that’s needed, no whisk if made correctly.

4. Add sauce to pasta and mix well.

5. Line a suitable tray 5cm high or container with cling firm and set your macaroni in the fridge, usually takes 1-2 hours.

6. Cut in to cubes then bread crumb, flour first, beaten egg then bread crumbs.

7. You can shallow fry then finish in the oven or deep fry, either way 10 minutes maximum cooking time. I like to serve with basil mayonnaise and shoots.

Recipe by

07446 403111 mark@mark-hadfield.co.uk

www.mark-hadfield.co.uk markhadfieldprivatechef markhadfieldchef

wolverhampton west magazine

Specialists in the design and complete installation of fitted kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms and office/study furniture

For further details please call 01902 714557 or email kitbedtech1@gmail.com

80 Chapel Ash, Wolverhampton, WV3 0TT www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk www.kitchenandbedroomtechnique.co.uk

Open: Monday to Friday 9.30am until 5pm Saturday 10am until 4pm 35

Quality Products and Exceptional Service at Premier Carpets and Flooring Ltd

Premier Carpets and Flooring have long been the number-one choice for discerning home and business owners who are keen to find quality products and exceptional service.

Established for over thirty years, the business supplies carpets and flooring from industry-leading brands from their impressive showroom, that’s located in Macrome Road, Claregate, Wolverhampton.

With something for every home interior – and budget - as well as an extensive selection of flooring which meets the demands of the commercial sector, Premier is the only place you’ll need to visit whatever your carpet and flooring requirements.

As company owner, Roy Colman explains: “Our extensive, recently refurbished showroom displays the latest ranges of flooring from leading brands such as Karndean and Amtico and there’s a vast range of top-quality carpets from all of the big names; Cormar, Brockway, Westex, Ulster, Brintons, Kingsmead and Victoria Carpets.”

And no matter what budget you’re working to, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Premier.

“We have plenty of budget carpets to choose from too, which are particularly popular with private landlords.”

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As approved Karndean suppliers – and installers – Premier offers a full design and fitting service for the ever-popular flooring.

“Clients can book an appointment – free of charge - with one of our surveyors who will visit their home, measure up and provide plenty of help and advice before giving a quotation.”

And all of the company’s fitters have been fully trained and completed advanced Karndean fitting courses.

Of course, Premier’s fitters are able to install any product sold by the company and can take care of all aspects of the installation process, including sub floor preparation, damp-proof membranes as well as floor-levelling screeds. wolverhampton west magazine

But it’s not just domestic clients that benefit from what Premier has to offer: “We work with many businesses and have taken on projects for all-manner of institutions, including schools, hospitals, residential homes, private businesses, each of Wolverhampton University’s campuses and even the prison service.”

It’s no surprise that Premier are the go-to supplier for the commercial sector, not only do they supply commercial carpets, carpet tiles and safety floor vinyls - from brands such as Altro, Polyflor, Forbo, Heckmondwike, Interface, JHS and Rawsons - they deliver an unbeatable, ultra-efficient service, from start to finish.

customers and specialise in all types of floor coverings including carpet rolls, carpet tiles, Luxury vinyl tiles, planks and sheet vinyl.

Independent local traders can also take advantage of Premier’s trade counter, which is situated in store.

With a team of eight staff members and a fleet of nine vehicles, the company are able to easily meet the demands of any job.

So, why not update your home – or business – with carpets or Vinyl flooring from Premier?

“Our website has been designed to be an extension of our already successful bricks and mortar business. We now offer ’supply-only’ all over the UK on our extensive range of products, you can buy online and experience great advice and impeccable service all within a few clicks.”

We provide our services to both domestic and commercial www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Left to right: Kerry Brough, Ian Widdowson, Elaine Coates, Matt Thompson, Emma Stowe, Roy Colman

Premier Carpets and Flooring Ltd Unit 9 Walton Works Ind Est, Macrome Road, Claregate, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV6 9HD.

Call us on: 01902 745491

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And that’s why companies from across the entire UK are keen to use Premier.

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Making Life Easier

Appointments Buddy For some though, it’s emotional support that is required during difficult appointments and of course, the Appointment Buddy team are ready and waiting to help.

Everybody needs support from timeto-time - whether it’s emotional, physical or practical - and that’s why Appointment Buddy has designed a personalised chaperone service to meet the individual needs of every customer.

As Managing Director, Mandy Catchpole explains: “We believe that everyone has the right to live their best life.

We understand that this isn’t always as easy as it sounds and even the simplest of tasks can feel daunting, especially when you’re facing them alone.”

That’s why Appointment Buddy is available to support you whatever the task, whether it’s attending a healthcare appointment, a social occasion, going shopping or any other day to day activity.

“We understand that if you’re unsteady on your feet getting to and from public transport is a real struggle, not to mention frightening when you’re concerned about falling over.”

Of course, if you suffer with poor mobility shopping too is no easy task.

38

“Facing hard situations alone isn’t easy for anyone and having some support makes a real difference.”

Wherever you’re going the team will make sure that you get there – and back –safely.

“We always make sure that we leave our customers comfortable and with a cup of tea in hand when they get back home.”

The company offers a wonderful pampering service too, which enables their clients to enjoy some ‘me time’.

“Another branch of our business is called Feeling Fabulous, which specialises in beauty services for mature people.”

Clients can enjoy everything from a facial, manicure or pedicure to a relaxing Reiki and Crystal Healing session in the comfort of their own home.

“Our therapists have worked in the care industry for many years and are passionate about what they do because it’s so wonderful to see the difference in clients – both mentally and physically - after they’ve enjoyed a treatment.”

And, the benefits of the treatments are far more than just skin deep.

“Having companionship and somebody to talk to makes a real difference to how our customers feel, as well as the obviously mood-boosting benefits of being pampered.”

The company even offer special treatment for four legged friends too.

“Many of our clients have pets and they are such an important part of their lives – they are their companion and friend.”

And so, Pet Buddy was established to take care of special pets.

“We can do the daily walk, take pets to the vets – with or without their owner – and even dog sit when the owner is away from home.”

The Pet Buddy team loves animals and will make sure that your furry friend is well taken care of.

So, whatever your requirements why not let the Appointment Buddy or Pet Buddy team make life a little easier for you? www.appointmentsbuddy.com

Every one of the beauty consultants at Feeling Fabulous is fully qualified and experienced in working with mature customers. wolverhampton west magazine

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The Pattingham Bells Run

will be the 30th… and the last The Pattingham Bells Run, one of the most eagerly anticipated events of its type in the area, will this year be staged for the very last time.

This multi-terrain event offers both 5km and 10km courses around the beautiful countryside

of South Staffordshire and will take place in Pattingham on Sunday 6th October 2019, starting at 11.00am.

Due to the uncertainty over the future availability of the course together with the fact that the event has reached the significant milestone of the 30th race, the organisers have decided that this year will be the last.

It is anticipated that over 900 runners will take part, all eager to collect their distinctive Bells Run brass after the race.

The first run back in 1990, was organised originally to raise money to replace the old wooden bell frame in the belfry of St. Chad’s church in Pattingham. This last race will be in aid of Acorns Children’s Hospice and St Chad’s C of E First School in Pattingham, both well-deserving causes.

At the end, all race finishers will receive a specially designed ‘30th’ Bells Run Brass to mark this unique event, together with the popular fruit cake slice and a hot drink.

Runners can enter on line at: www. pattinghambellsrun.com where full race details can also be found, together with race results for download after the event.

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KARNDEAN AND CARPET SHOWROOM MON - FRI 8.00am - 5:00pm SAT 10:00am - 3:00pm

For a free no obligation site survey and measuring service call 01902 745491 Unit 9 Walton Works industrial Estate, Macrome Road, Claregate, Wolverhampton, WV6 9HD 42

Shop online @ www.premierflooringltd.com wolverhampton west magazine

B lu etooth S peak er Lighting

I S T h e N e x t B i g T h in g

Music is a major part of life, whether you are on the way to work humming away at a song or in the shower singing your heart out, music always seems to be involved.

Technology has advanced remarkably in recent years, especially when it comes to music and the devices, we use to listen to it. Portable Bluetooth speakers are a great illustration of this. Knowing that we can take our music with us wherever we go with ease, has become part of everyday life.

Technology decided that Portable Bluetooth speakers were not enough and had to take things one step further, by introducing this concept into lighting. Now you can listen to music through

your bathroom mirror or even your outdoor light in the garden.

Outdoor Entertaining During the summer your garden is the place to entertain your guests, by chilling out in the garden enjoying a barbecue. Now you will be able to sit out all night in the warm evening, listening to your favourite music with a glass of wine and talk the night away.

At Lighting R Us we offer a selection of these modern light fittings that utilise the latest LED technology, making the light both bright and energy efficient.

All fittings mentioned in this article are available to buy on our website at www.lightingrus. co.uk. Alternatively, if you’re after something different, you can browse through the rest of our website, or take a look around our Aldersley showroom.

Unit 1a, Walton Works Industrial Estate, Macrome Rd, Aldersley, Wolverhampton, WV6 9HD Euba Outdoor Speaker Downlight

The Euba LED downlighter which provides a modern look with the matt powder-coated finish in dark grey will illuminate the garden during those long summer nights.

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Grand Theatre COMPETITION

The National Theatre brings Shelagh Delaney’s career defining play A TASTE OF HONEY to Wolverhampton from Tuesday 5 – Saturday 9 November. We have a pair of tickets to give away to the press night on Tuesday 5 November at 7:30pm.

Jodie Prenger (Oliver!, One Man, Two Guvnors, Abigail’s Party UK tour) joins the cast as Helen.

Directed by Bijan Sheibani (Barber Shop Chronicles), this British classic is an exhilarating depiction of working-class life in post-war Salford.

When her mother Helen runs off with a car salesman, feisty teenager Jo takes up with Jimmy, a sailor who promises to marry her, before he heads for the seas leaving her pregnant and alone.

Art student Geoff moves in and assumes the role of surrogate parent until, misguidedly, he sends for Helen and their unconventional setup unravels.

Don’t miss your chance to see one of the great taboo-breaking plays of the 1950’s!

Tickets are for the specified performance only and cannot be given for any other performance or production. Tickets have no monetary value.

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Wolverhampton West magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton WV6 7YY. Alternatively, email your answer to info@wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk and include your details. Entries to be received no later than Friday 11th October 2019.

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Jodie first shot to fame on which TV talent search to win the role of Nancy in ‘Oliver!’?

Competition Terms and Conditions

A. Over The Rainbow B. Any Dream Will Do

exchanged and no cash or alternative

C. Grease Is The Word D. I’d Do Anything

required to partake in relevant publicity.

Entries to be received no later than Friday 11th October 2019. Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the evening of the performance. Tickets cannot be prize nights available. Winners may be

wolverhampton west magazine

Macrome Road, Claregate, Wolverhampton, WV6 9HD Salop Street, Wolverhampton, WV3 0RX Castle Street, Hadley, Telford, TF1 6GJ

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Why not visit their new showroom which has a large display of composite doors in a wide range of colours, together with glass styles, furniture and accessories. Have a browse around at your leisure, no appointment is necessary on Monday to Friday, Saturday’s by appointment only.

Their helpful staff can advise you on the benefits of the composite door range and help you choose the best door for your needs.

46

wolverhampton west magazine

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Seasonal Sophistication

Interest free credit available

From Cousins.

Be inspired by our choice, quality and low prices

cousinsfurniture.co.uk Birmingham | Dudley | Manchester 48

wolverhampton west magazine

The Best For Your Home All Under One Roof Cousins is proud to offer a shopping experience you’ll never forget, with inspiring room sets, friendly advice and immense choice.

As an independent retailer we’ve spent enough time with our customers to know furniture is cherished and treasured.

One of Cousins greatest missions as an independent business is being able to offer outstanding quality at exceptional prices.

Whilst we understand the desire for big brands, sometimes nothing beats the appeal of bespoke furniture and unique products.

It’s one of the reasons we created the Cousins Bespoke collection, a high quality personal service.

A symbolic representation of the distinctiveness of Cousins itself, customers can design something wholly unique and individual to their needs and tastes.

Our buyers travel the world, building and maintaining great relationships with some of the finest brands, sourcing cuttingedge designs that are innovative and impeccably crafted.

We especially value homegrown and so work closely with renowned British brands like Rest Assured and Harrison to the iconic Parker Knoll and Collins and Hayes, GPlan and many more.

The fact we are a family business is one aspect where we can relate to our suppliers, many of which are also family run and share the same core values.

Our 3 stores each have over 85,000ft2 of showroom space, 6x larger than the average furniture store, as well as commended in-store restaurants.

With customer satisfaction at the forefront, our friendly and

We’re one of the UK’s largest family-owned furniture retailers, established for 34 years Everything is beautifully displayed and accessorised in inspirational room settings featuring the latest trends & ideas

knowledgeable staff, some of whom have been with us for over 30 years, take the time to guide customers around our inspirational room displays, show them an immeasurable selection of choice and focus on their individual needs.

Our stores aren’t just a place for shopping; but rather a personalised experience that larger retailers just can’t provide.

We’ve just celebrated our 34th year!

We showcase all the leading brand names We offer expert advice in a relaxed, friendly environment Read our excellent, independent customer reviews on Trustpilot and Feefo.

Over 60% of our customers are either recommended or repeat purchasers Large, free car parks and Free Wifi Commended in-store restaurants

Visit us in-store, you won’t be disappointed www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

49

Was h e r - Wis e

Expert appliance repairs There’s nothing more frustrating than finding that your trusty appliance won’t start-up.

Before you begin looking for an expensive new replacement though, why not give domestic appliance repair experts, Washer-Wise, a call first?

With more than 30 years’ experience in the trade, company owner, Eddie Johnson successfully carries out repairs to washing machines, tumble dryers, dishwashers, electric cookers and various other selected items as well as dealing with the buying and selling of white goods.

The business was first established by former Hotpoint Engineer Clive Knight in 1995 who developed the business over 8 years, before ceasing trading in 2002 due to ill health.

A year later, Eddie bought the company from his friend and quickly established an excellent reputation, working across the Wolverhampton and Stafford areas.

As Eddie explains: “Customer satisfaction is the priority, not profit. Our work comes mostly from recommendation and we always ensure that we provide the best service for every customer. We carry

Sales & Repair of all domestic appliances: Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers Dishwashers, Cookers and much more !

out reliable repairs to virtually any make or model of appliance ranging from Hotpoint, Hoover, Bosch, right through to Siemens or Miele.”

The Washer-Wise motto is: ‘Fast friendly service at prices you can afford’ and Eddie ensures that every one of his customers benefits from efficient and cost effective repairs to their machine.

“We strive to mend our customer’s appliances quickly and economically but, if a repair is not viable we offer a very competitive replacement service.”

Taking the stress out of the new purchase process – and saving you pounds in the process – Eddie sources the new appliance, takes care of delivery, installation and even removes the old machine.

“When replacing appliances the product range includes nearly every brand available, sourced to suit the individual requirements of the customer.

The products are delivered and installed normally within a few days of the initial instruction.”

And, thanks to his committed approach Eddie has earned a wealth of loyal customers, who are keen to share plenty of positive feedback: “Eddie from Washer-Wise came to my house to diagnose a problem with my washing machine spin cycle. He was professional and had located the problem quickly. Luckily he carried the part required and had it working again in less than an hour. Great service and will be telling all my friends about him.” Mrs Ashbrook “Excellent service. No hard sell. New dishwasher supplied speedily and efficiently.

Knowledgeable and reliable advice also given regarding the washing machine.

Can recommend without reservation and will use again.” Mike Woodall “Eddie from Washer-Wise is very fast, friendly and at a price you can afford.

He replaced our washing machine within 24hrs of calling him.” DK Taylor

at prices you can afford

01902 664121 or 07973 618169

www.washerwise.co.uk 50

“Eddie was very good and went that extra mile to give an excellent service. I would have no problems recommending him.” M Box. So, to get your appliance up-and-running today, give Eddie a call on 01902 664121, 0800 093 6656 Freephone or 07973 618169. wolverhampton west magazine

No job too big or too small

For more than a decade local family-run business S.Parton Building Maintenance Ltd has been meeting the needs of domestic and commercial clients alike thanks to its extensive and dedicated property maintenance service.

Taking care of everything from a broken lock to a complete refurbishment, the Finchfield-based company – which has more than 40 years of experience in the building trade - is on-hand to tackle any property maintenance problem no matter how large or small.

Boasting an experienced, highly qualified and fully insured team of long-serving tradesmen, S.Parton have earned an excellent reputation in the trade and are always busy undertaking work for local housing associations, schools and offices, some of which require a 24/7 emergency attendance, as well as homeowners across Wolverhampton.

When it comes to domestic customers, S.Parton has established an exceptionally loyal clientbase, thanks to its commitment to offering outstanding service and highly competitive rates.

As director, Steve Parton, explains: “We are a onestop-shop for property maintenance. We’re more than happy to take on small jobs, such as fixing leaks, replacing failed double glazing and any other maintenance issues including insurance work.

But, we’re also adept at sorting out the bigger jobs too and our team can take care of everything from re-roofing to electrical, plumbing and heating problems to bathroom and kitchen installations.”

Decorating, tiling and laying carpets and vinyl are all part of the services S.Parton offer.

“Our maintenance service covers plenty of external jobs; gardens, driveways, fencing and exterior decorating. We literally take care of everything from A-Z when it comes to property maintenance.”

Steve is passionate about the business and customer satisfaction is of the utmost importance.

“We really pride ourselves on the work we do for every one of our clients. We have a really good relationship with our customers and find that many call us back time and time again.”

The company are fully insured and every quote that’s provided is detailed and accurate.

“We work to the highest standards and ensure that every customer receives the best service,” adds Steve.

So, don’t put off attending to those jobs in your home any longer, call in the professionals at S.Parton Buildings Maintenance Ltd today.

Tel: 01902 421764 / 07773 346701 Finchfield Gardens, Finchfield, Wolverhampton WV3 9LT www.spartonconstruction.co.uk

Father and son team Steve and Daniel Parton www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

51

Fun Day in Wolverhampton!

Sandhills Day Nursery in Wolverhampton welcomed families for a charity fun day and the opportunity to experience all the amazing facilities that this fantastic new purposebuilt private day nursery in Lower Penn has on offer, all in aid of Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

The fun day began with a grand opening of the nursery with the cutting of the ribbon to make it official, then the fun and games began! With stalls, magic show and inflatables– not even the rain was going to stop this day going ahead.

but has specifically helped care for two children close to our hearts.”

Sandhills, Wolverhampton is conveniently located just 30 minutes from Birmingham city centre and is situated off its own private access road on Springhill Lane in the Lower Penn area of Wolverhampton.

Our purpose-built nursery has 8 spacious rooms, each dedicated and designed for a particular age group and all equipped with real authentic resources, all allowing the children access to a well-resourced Home from Home environment full

of awe and wonder. We have 3 baby rooms, 3 toddler rooms and 2 pre-school rooms, a community room, library and reflections room.

The ground level rooms have access to an outdoor play area and will soon have further access to our large ‘Back to Nature’ outdoor area, which will include a forest school.

Should you wish to have a look around this amazing Nursery please telephone the Nursery on 01902 844450 or email: Wolverhampton@ sandhillsnursery.com

Nursery director Dal Basra said: “Everyone was excited for the official launch and helping the hospital which has a special place in the hearts of everyone in the region but even more so since it had cared for two of our pupils including a little girl who is still fighting leukemia. The community fun day not only officially announces we are here in the area to stay but gives us an opportunity to repay Birmingham Children’s Hospital which does an amazing job 52

wolverhampton west magazine

New Nursery

NOW OPEN in Wolverhampton

We have other sites at Wombourne: 01902 326500 and

Double outstanding Nursery now relocated

01902 844450

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Sandhills Day Nurseries are Rated Outstanding with Ofsted

www.sandhillsdaynursery.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

sandhillswolverhampton@btconnect.com

53

Autumn

still so much to do in the garden We offer a full maintenance service that includes: • Lawncare • Weeding • Pruning • Planting (including hanging baskets and seasonal displays) • Mulching • Jet wash • General tidy • General advice on what plants would be suitable where

With autumn approaching a lot of people think we start to quiet down, when it’s actually the opposite. autumn is becoming milder each year and is also the right time of year for lots of garden jobs.

Autumn is the best time to move, split and divide herbaceous perennials, and is also great time to re-structure that border you’ve been wanting to do for a while.

It’s also a great time for planting, especially roses and hedges.

Planting in autumn means much

less aftercare, and as it’s coming to the end of the growing season allows the roots to settle into their new home before spring.

It’s also a good time to mulch the garden (although late autumn is better) as this enables the mulch to work its way into the ground. It can then be lightly forked in come spring.

Each package is bespoke to cater for our client’s needs, and all gardens big and small. The process starts with a free consultation and a chat to see what you’d like to achieve within your garden and then we go from there.

By choosing The Potting Shed for your garden maintenance you’re guaranteed a reliable, friendly and professional service.

So, if any of these jobs have been on your to-do list for a while and you just don’t have the time, we offer all these services during autumn as well as our seasonal maintenance programme.

You can follow what we’re up to on social media and this year we have also launched our You Tube channel where we will be posting weekly informational videos to share our expertise and perhaps give you some ideas for your own garden. Head to our Facebook page for a link to the channel. www. facebook.com/thepottingsheduk/

Here at The Potting Shed we’ve a real passion for gardening and my team and I take great pride in treating all our client’s gardens as our own.

With an ever-growing portfolio of fabulous gardens and satisfied customers the last 3 years have been great and we hope the success will continue.

01902 755502

info@thepotting-shed.co.uk w w w. t h e p o t t i n g - s h e d . c o . u k 54

wolverhampton west magazine

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56

wolverhampton west magazine

Encourage Natural Beauty

in Your Garden

By Andi Way, Garden Designer at Boningale Garden Creations There are many physical and mental benefits to spending time in your garden: decreased stress, increased socialising and a chance to re-engage with nature.

One of the easiest ways to maximise these benefits is to encourage wildlife through your planting, border and feature choices.

Planting: The plants you choose for your garden have a direct impact on the types of wildlife that visit.

Opting for nectar-rich flowers such as Buddleia encourages butterflies to stop by, whilst climbing plants such as Pyracantha and Hydrangea petiolaris can provide safe nesting

sites for birds and other small animals. To attract honey bees and help them with their job as pollinators, you might like to choose flowers such as Nepeta x faassenii, Echinops ritro or Phlox paniculata.

Borders: For the borders in your garden, consider opting for natural options such as hedging – particularly varieties that produce berries. These increase the chances of birds visiting and stopping to feed in your garden. Hedging also enables hedgehogs to access your garden, where they can handily source materials ready for hibernation. Hedgehogs are garden-friendly as they are good at clearing slugs and other pests, too.

Features: Installing a pond in your garden is an obvious way to increase the variety of wildlife that may call your garden home,

but the installation method really makes a difference. Opting for shallow edges, for example, provides easy access for animals such as frogs and dragonflies.

Other insects and birds will also stop by to drink from the pond.

Structures: Adding a green roof to your shed or outbuilding is a fantastic way to not only transform a dull, functional space, but also create an area that’s living, breathing and a sustainable haven for wildlife.

By carefully planning these elements of your garden, you will continually reward yourself with natural beauty and sensory experiences all year round.

If you need any further information, or want to seek professional advice on giving your garden a new wildlife-friendly design, please visit www.boningale-garden-creations.co.uk/ or call me on 01902 376500.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

57

Autumn colour

in the garden

Tips are provided by Ann Winwood, Lealans Garden Centre, Wolverhampton excellent value for money- flowering in the spring with the bulbs.

Harvest onions and potatoes now – lift up onions and allow to dry out where they’ve been growing if the weather is fine, before storing.

Potatoes should be stored in a cool but frost-free environment. Hessian sacks that are available from garden centres are ideal for this purpose.

If we get a nice spell of weather through August and into the beginning of September the flowering season of summer bedding and perennials will continue into early autumn.

The range of new varieties of tried and tested herbaceous perennials has expanded quickly over the last few years with the introduction of new foxgloves, delphiniums and Lupins alongside the newer plants of perennial Salvia, Gaura and Heuchera - they make a costeffective alternative to summer bedding. Buying perennials from spring through to autumn will give colour for many months of the year.

Summer baskets and tubs should still be in their prime through September and possibly into October if we don’t get any early

58

frosts, but as the nights draw in and the weather gets cooler, they’ll begin to fade. Continue to dead head and feed regularly to encourage a late show of colour.

Once your baskets have been emptied why not re-plant for winter colour, there’s plenty to choose from – pansies, violas, polyanthus, heathers, ivies and don’t forget to add a few spring flowering bulbs for added colour.

Most garden centres sell smaller sized shrubs that are suitable for tubs and baskets and can then be planted out in the garden next spring. These include gaultherias, leucothoe, skimmias and grasses.

Once borders have been cleared of summer bedding, you can re-plant with winter pansies, violas, sweet williams and wallflowers. Hopefully if the weather has been moist we’ll have some of our own fieldgrown wallflowers available from the end of September – they give

Pick early apples and pears as they become ripe. Eat the earlier varieties straight away, storing later ripening ones for later use. Cover autumn fruiting raspberries against birds. The old fruiting canes can be pruned out during the winter months as the autumn varieties fruit on new season’s growth each year.

Clean out greenhouses before putting in overwintering plants and insulate with bubble. Check over heaters ready for the first frosts. As you bring in plants to overwinter watch out for vine weevil larvae, especially on fuchsias. If you do see signs of them, drench the compost with one of the chemicals available for their control.

Buy prepared hyacinth bulbs for Christmas flowering and plant them in bowls with Bulb Compost by mid-September. Give them a drink and put in a cool, dark place, bringing gradually into the light and warmth once the shoots are approx 3cm high.

Overwintering onions, shallots and broad beans will soon be in stock, plant them as soon as you can and you’ll get an early maturing crop next year.

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59

ELLE’S ANGELS

Willows Dental

supporting Elle’s Angels Elle’s Angels is a West Midlandsbased charity organisation which launched in 2013 to help both family and community members recovering after life threatening accidents or illnesses, with much needed alternative therapy and support.

The main focus of the charity is to raise money to fund alternative and conventional therapies to those who need it most, giving others the opportunity to improve and achieve a better quality of life.

The charity was established by the family and friends of Elle-Mae Davidson, who at the age of 16 suffered a brain injury which left her fighting for her life. Elle spent the next seven months in a high dependency unit, critically ill. Her devastated loved ones were told Elle’s chance of survival was almost zero. Elle had gone from recently achieving twelve grade A’s in her GCSE exams, to battling to stay alive.

Despite doctor’s predictions, Elle fought like a lion, defying the odds stacked against her. After the agonising time spent in critical care, Elle’s condition had stabilised enough for her to be moved to a rehabilitation centre in London. It was during these 16 months in rehab that Elle’s mum Leah discovered alternative therapies in her determination to do everything she could to help Elle. These alternative therapies were fundamental in aiding Elle’s recovery alongside traditional therapies. However as Leah soon discovered, availability for such treatments on the NHS was very limited. In order to benefit from these treatments, they had no choice but to pay privately.

With the help of her team Elle’s Angels, Leah is determined to help others access these much 60

needed therapies. By hosting fundraising events, Leah and her Elle’s Angels are determined to make this dream a reality. As the charity is a non-profit organisation, every penny raised goes directly towards helping those in need.

The next fundraising event is Elle’s Angel’s Ball which will be taking place on Friday 20th September. Neel, Vicki and the team at Willows Dental and Implant Centre are proud to be supporting the charity by attending the ball which will be held at The Ramada Park Hall Hotel in Wolverhampton. Attendees can expect to be greeted with a drink on arrival before a three-course meal and will be entertained with live music from the band ‘Kick up the 80’s’ and a DJ. The team at Willows Dental are looking forward to Elle’s Angels Ball and supporting such a deserved cause.

Contact Louise Evans one of ‘Elle’s Angels’ on 07780 703 201 to find out more.

Any support would be greatly appreciated. wolverhampton west magazine

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61

RCC l e a n i ng

Treat your home to a professional clean Even though we all know that first impressions count many of us overlook the exterior appearance of our property.

how problematic blocked gutters can be and often don’t notice a problem until they’re overflowing.”

Dirty fascias, grimy conservatories and blocked gutters don’t just look unattractive; they also devalue your property. That’s why it’s important to regularly treat your home to a professional clean.

“Well maintained gutters are essential, that’s why it’s so important to have them regularly cleaned out to keep them working effectively.

Installing Hedgehog Gutter Guards prevents gutters from blocking.”

Fortunately, the team at RC Cleaning are ready and waiting to transform your home.

Many homeowners have benefited from Richard’s cleaning services since he started the company in 2009.

As owner, Richard Cotterill explains: “We undertake all aspects of exterior cleaning from top to bottom. We clean roofs, fascias, soffits, inside and outside of gutters, window frames and sills, garage doors, porches, conservatories and orangeries.”

And the company also install Hedgehog Gutter Guards: “Many homeowners don’t realise just

When gutters become blocked water can get into the brickwork and cause damp problems in your home.

“I’m really passionate about what I do and I take pride in my work.

Cleaning is incredibly rewarding and I get real job satisfaction from seeing the transformation once a job is complete.”

And the company also offer a professional carpet and upholstery cleaning service too.

“I’ve established a really good customer base over the ten years I’ve been in business and many of my clients have recommended my services to their friends and relatives.”

The business is accredited by Age Concern, which proves to highlight just how trustworthy and reliable Richard is.

It’s no surprise that RC has gone from strength to strength as Richard prides himself on the work he does for his clients.

“Homeowners can rest assured that whatever the job, they’ll receive only the best service when they use RC Cleaning.”

GUTTER GUARDS INSTALLED

House roof cleaning (including moss), gutter cleaning inside and out, full house exterior cleans, pure water window cleaning.

For a free no obligation quote call Richard on 01902 822452 or 07792 359262

Visit our Facebook page 62

RC Cleaning Services

Bhylls Crescent, Merry Hill, Wolverhampton

Age UK approved trader wolverhampton west magazine

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

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

PAINTER & DECORATOR Interior and Exterior All work guaranteed Reliable // No job too small

FREE QUOTES Call Kevin on:

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63

Black Country Firewood Since last updating you, we have completed our new purposebuilt drying facility.

The new building will not only help us increase our production but also ensure we can continue to supply the highest quality firewood that our customers have become accustomed to.

The building will allow us to dry firewood all year round, designed with maximum ventilation whilst keeping the logs protected from the British weather!

Before they are delivered all of our logs pass our quality control inspection, we test the moisture content of each batch to make sure they are dry enough to burn, separate any oversize, remove any dust, and finally check that they are bug and spider free!

This process means that we can be fully confident in our end product and allows us to offer all of our customers a full 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. Meaning

if you are not 100% happy with the logs we have delivered we will collect them and offer a full refund.

As we have said previously, we encourage all of our customers, both old and new, to come and visit us in our Firewood Centre. Here you can learn about the different options of firewood we have to offer and most importantly, our firewood technicians can provide advice and answer any questions you may have.

Finally, Wolverhampton West would like to congratulate Mike and his wife on the safe arrival of their daughter, Isla. She’s already been busy helping her Dad with quality control!

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

SATURDAY OCTOBER 5TH 2019 - 10am to 2pm Come and join us for a complimentary drink and slice of pizza from our very own wood fired oven!

Keep an eye on our Facebook page and our website blog for more information on the open day, hints and tips, and special offers.

Suppliers of high quality firewood Shop and buy online

www.blackcountryfirewood.co.uk

or visit us at

Salters Hall Farm Bobbington, Stourbridge, DY7 5DX * pack includes:

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01384 884481 or 07791 438389 @thefirewoodshed 64

blackcountryfirewood wolverhampton west magazine

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65

PAYCARE IN THE COMMUNITY

Paycare Marks

30 years on GeorGe street Project GIVE and the Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Support Project.

Kevin added: “I’ve been at the helm of Paycare since 2013 and as Operations Director for four years before that, and I can honestly say it’s been the most rewarding role of my entire career. Not only do we make a genuine difference to the health and wellbeing of so many across the region and beyond, but we’re in the incredibly fortunate position to have a team which shares our vision and are committed to giving back to the communities that we all serve.

Here’s to another 30 years!”

It’s been 30 years since Paycare moved from its former headquarters at Alan House to the four storey Paycare House – a landmark anniversary for the team, some of whom were there on the day of the move.

Kevin Rogers said: “We’re so proud to call Wolverhampton our home and although we date right back to 1874, we’ve seen some of the biggest developments within Paycare over the last three decades.

“We rebranded from Patients Aid Association to Paycare in 2005, and we were the first Health Cash Plan provider in the UK to offer BACS as a payment method in 1994 – a move which made it much more accessible and easier for our Policyholders to use our services.”

On 8th June 1989, Paycare House was officially unveiled

by Wolverhampton Wanderers legend Billy Wright CBE. Saranjit Nagra, Compliance Manager of Paycare, was pregnant at the time with her daughter, who has just celebrated her 30th birthday.

The leadership team at Paycare has continued to push boundaries and lead by example with charitable giving, with the CEO of the firm in 1999 – who preceded Kevin – taking part in an abseil down Paycare House to raise funds for Derby Mountain Charity, and Kevin himself taking part in a stand-up comedy gig for Stand Up to Cancer.

•

In 1999, at Paycare’s 125th anniversary celebrations, it donated five minibuses to various charities

•

The lovely cobbled street outside the office on George Street was created as part of St. Johns ‘Urban Village Project’ in Wolverhampton

•

When its Gold Plan was introduced in 2001, the first Policyholder of that plan was a relative of an employee

•

Various guests and staff attended the opening of Paycare House in 1989, with a drinks reception and nibbles provided, as well as staff wearing matching suits.

Paycare also donates rent-free office space within Paycare House to five other not-forprofit organisations, including

To learn more about Paycare, please visit www.paycare.org or call 01902 371 000 66

wolverhampton west magazine

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER, 2019

recoGnisinG charity heroes

Will Mellor, Pete Sandiford, Emily Glew, Sophie Sandiford and Ed James presenting Housing 21 (centre right) with the Community Fundraising Award

The Paycare team was proud to be a Gold Sponsor of the Midlands Air Ambulance Recognition Awards 2019 on 5th July, which saw many individuals across the region praised for their continued support of the charity.

This year’s awards ceremony will fund an amazing 34 lifesaving air ambulance missions and 31 critical car missions.

TV personality Will Mellor and Heart radio presenter Ed James co-hosted, with many famous faces, including the legendary Paul Chuckle, author Sally Bee, as well as Gogglebox stars Pete and Sophie Sandiford, presenting awards on the night.

Anthony Burns, Commercial Director of Paycare, explained: “We were delighted to support the event again this year and it

Emily (front row 2nd from left) and the team enjoying the last day in camp before saying farewell to local guides

was incredibly touching to learn about the people who go above and beyond to support the charity, as well as about the life-changing work it carries out every single day.

“We were also proud to see our sponsored Community Fundraising Award presented to Housing 21 — Goldfield Court living facility, which has generated over £10,000 by fundraising and collecting clothing, furniture and other items for Midlands Air Ambulance charity shops.

“We’d like to congratulate all of the winners, but to also say huge thanks to the many inspiring individuals and companies who continue to support the charity’s vital work.”

counties as well as supporting the surrounding regions, responding to over 2,000 calls a year. But it receives no funding from the Government or the National Lottery, meaning they rely solely on public donations to the tune of £9m to keep the service going each year.

Earlier this year, Paycare’s own Emily Glew took part in the charity’s Amazon Trek alongside a team of 11 volunteers — with the combined £68,000 raised enough to fund 27 air ambulance missions.

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity has three air ambulances which operate primarily across six

ePilePsy charity Benefits froM MyGivinG £250 with Epilepsy Research UK, a charity she´s supported for many years and which helps improve the lives of those affected by the condition.

The “MyGiving” initiative provides all Paycare employees with £250 towards a cause of their choice, whether it´s through a direct donation like Blahar´s, or by helping to inject further funds into a wider fundraising target.

Quiz prizes

Following the launch of its ‘MyGiving’ initiative earlier this year, another member of the Paycare team has chosen to support a charity close to her heart.

After her daughter was diagnosed with Juvenile Epilepsy, Blahar Chumber, Claims Assessor at Paycare felt passionately about sharing her www.twitter.com/MyPaycare/

It also complements Paycare’s existing initiative, which sees all staff given two extra (and fully paid) days of annual leave, for the purpose of fundraising, taking part in charitable events, or volunteering.

In April 2019, Cheryl Glover, Policy Administration Team Leader at Paycare, held a quiz night at Paycare House in support of Cure Leukaemia, raising £900 in total through entry fees, raffle money, and the £250 donation by Paycare. Emily Glew also used her £250 towards her Amazon Trek in aid of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.

www.facebook.com/MyPaycare/

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

www.linkedin.com/company/paycare/ 67

Children’s Market…

If you’ve spent a fortune trying to keep the kids amused this summer, then we’ve got the perfect solution for you.

Penkridge Market are holding a fantastic event on the 15th September that will not only make you money, but keep the kids entertained as well. The Children’s Market, will give you the opportunity to sell all of your unwanted items; find fantastic bargains, plus give the kids a great day out at the same time.

The Market, will feature stalls selling everything from nearly new children’s clothes to toys and handmade crafts. There will also be plenty of activities to keep the children entertained, with a petting farm, donkey rides, Diddi Dance and Toddler Sense taster sessions, magic show, free craft area as well as a special guest appearance from everyone’s favourite pig!

The event will run from 10am to 3pm, and with free admission for children and only £2 for adults, it makes it an affordable day out for the whole family.

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catered for the needs of parents but also the children themselves. The Children’s Market gives parents the opportunity to buy and sell nearly new items, as well as new products such as handmade crafts, whilst the kids are having fun. They can hire a stall for as little as £12 and hopefully make a great profit too.”

If you would like to book a stall at the event, please contact Kate by e-mailing kate@penkridgemarket.co.uk

Over 60 stall holders are expected, selling a variety of goods from clothes, toys and books to handmade wooden toys, knitted items and personalised gifts.

The majority of stalls will be undercover in the indoor market, making it a fun day out whatever the weather.

Penkridge Market is situated in the centre of Penkridge, and is signposted off the A449. It is easily accessible from Junction 12 of the M6 and is only 6 miles from Stafford; 7 miles from Cannock and 10 miles from Wolverhampton (postcode ST19 5AS).

Mother of two and brainchild behind the event, Kate Kingsley, said: “I wanted to create an event that not only

For further information please telephone 01785 714221 or log onto the website www.penkridgemarket.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine

Come and see us at Dorema, Hall 17: Stand 42 and Kampa, Hall 12: Stand 10

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Picnic in Codsall raises £1,000

to help veterans with health conditions back to work A Wolverhampton resident gathered friends and family together for a picnic and raised more than £1,000 to support ex-Forces men and women with health conditions back into work.

Alison Steele, from Codsall, hosted the get-together in her garden as part of employment charity The Poppy Factory’s summer fundraising challenge, #OperationPicnic. She asked 56 family members, friends and neighbours who attended to each make a donation.

Alison and her friend Penny also asked local businesses to support the event by donating prizes for a raffle. In total, 18 businesses and individuals donated prizes, including hair salon vouchers, food hampers and a framed aerial photograph of the winner’s home, taken from a drone.

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Alison said: “The weather was beautiful on the day and the picnic had a real community feel as I’d encouraged people to bring friends along. My initial target was to raise £300 so when the last few donations came in, I was delighted to see we’d raised £1,000.”

Alison was inspired to hold the picnic when she learned about The Poppy Factory’s summer #OperationPicnic fundraiser while spending time with her daughter in Richmond-upon-Thames, where the charity is based. Its advisers support hundreds of veterans into work each year throughout England and Wales, including the West Midlands.

of the charity’s support for exForces personnel when they return to the civilian world. The cause touched me particularly as a few of my daughter’s friends had been impacted by the after-effects of war.

“I arranged the picnic to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings as I knew people would be more willing to support the Armed Forces community on this important day.”

Alison said: “I hadn’t heard of The Poppy Factory before but I was interested to learn wolverhampton west magazine

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

‘Bring your own d i s h e s’ s e r v i ce We will fill your dishes with delicious meals prepared fresh in our kitchen using Poxon’s quality meats Dishes include: Lasagne / Cannelloni / Meatballs / Quiches

Tel: 01902 761693

www.poxonsbutchers.co.uk

We also make sweet pies.

Excellent quality Goat Meat now available. Sourced from East Farm in Wiltshire

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

71

Work gets underway on Compton Care’s Coordination Centre

Photo taken by Express & Star

Following months of planning and preliminary work, construction work is now underway at the much-anticipated Compton Care Coordination Centre.

The building, funded in part by a £1.6 million donation from members of the Transport & General Workers Union of the former Goodyear Tyre Plant, will be constructed on the charity’s Compton Hall Headquarters site on Compton Road West.

The Coordination Centre, which is estimated to take 12 months to complete, will see the charity be able to coordinate care and support services for local people diagnosed with incurable illnesses from one central location.

Compton Care CEO Claire Marshal commented: “This is an incredibly exciting phase of our Compton Care journey with the new build helping us to provide extraordinary care to our patients and families.

“The Centre will enable us to coordinate our services from one central point creating a more responsive service for our patients and their families eventually providing 24/7 advice and support for patients, carers and referrers.”

“None of this would be possible without the incredible generosity of the members of the Transport & General Workers Union Benevolent Fund. They are funding so much more than a building, they are funding the opportunity for local people who have been diagnosed with an incurable illness to access the extraordinary care, encouragement and support they need in order to live their best life possible. Words cannot express how grateful and appreciative we all are.”

commented: “The Trustees and management committee are absolutely delighted, to see the start of our corner stone project, creating a proud living legacy to all of the ex-members of the fund.

“This is the people’s project, supporting Compton Care has been championed by all members since day one. We hope all of the members and their families will feel a sense of pride over the next.

12 months as our dream will become a reality.

“The Coordination Centre will leave a long and lasting positive legacy, supporting the people of Wolverhampton and the Black Country. The members of the Benevolent fund, were community spirited , caring people.

This project says everything about them.

“On behalf of the Trustees and management committee of the fund, I want to thank them and their families. This is your project.”

Construction work will be carried out by BAM Construct UK. You can keep up to date with the progress of the build with regular news and updates via the Compton Care website: comptoncare.org.uk

Talking of his delight to see construction work get underway at the Centre, Chairman of the Transport & General Workers Union Cyril Barrett 72

wolverhampton west magazine

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Eating Out, Food, Drink and Entertainment

Promote your venue to over 50,000* readers with Wolverhampton West Magazine To find out how your venue can be featured please call Gisella on 01902 744217 74

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The TheOakley OakleyArms Arms BB RR E E WW OO OO DD

Christmas Christmas&&New NewYear Year It only It only seems seems likelike yesterday yesterday when when wewe were were tidying tidying away away lastlast year’s year’s Christmas Christmas decorations, decorations, and and before before youyou know know it we’ll it we’ll be be trying trying to to find find them them again. again.

Our Our Christmas Christmas menu, menu, available available as as twotwo courses courses or or three three courses, courses, runs runs from from Friday Friday 29th 29th November November 2019 2019 until until Tuesday Tuesday 24th 24th December December 2019.

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Turkey Turkey with with allall thethe traditional traditional festive festive accompaniments, accompaniments, is of is course of course at at thethe heart heart of the of the show, show, butbut there there areare plenty plenty of exciting of exciting alternatives alternatives from from near near and and farfar to to please please and and tempt. tempt.

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77

Halfpenny Green Wine Estate is a hive of activity at all times, but particularly today.

Cars packed full of exuberant visitors stream up and down the long driveway, just off Tom Lane, Bobbington: a relentless flow of traffic that is challenging to negotiate but – oh so – worth it, because when you arrive at the complex the atmosphere is buzzing with the kind of energy that only a star-studded local attraction can generate.

Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, Bobbington

By Rob Taylor

Bustling about us, when my partner Nicola and I arrive, is a throng of people, all heading in different directions: some make no bones about the fact that they are there solely to browse the vast range of award-winning wines in the three-storey shop; for others, relaxation with a drink in the tea room is the order of the day. I’m sure many more are here to check out the on-site craft centre – which is home to over fifteen individual businesses, including a Blacksmith and a zoo.

And I bet a lucky few are here to do what I’d really like to be doing myself: trying out the brand new Balcony Tapas menu at the newly-opened Wine Loft Balcony. The idea of shooting the breeze outdoors while sipping at a glass of home-grown wine (or anything from the extensive G & T menu), overlooking the splendid surrounding countryside, and nibbling on accompanying, freshly-prepared Tapas choices from the Deli counter, such as ‘Sun Dried Tomato Tapenade, Mozzarella and Focaccia sticks’ and ‘Chargrilled Marinated Peppers’ (£3.50 each or 3 for £10) is right up my alley. But, oh well, duty calls, another day perhaps…

For us, it is lunch in the restaurant, so we dive left after entering through the conservatory atrium and are seated beside expansive windows, which overlook the vines. It is a choice table and one that allows us to absorb the sights, smells and sounds of a generouslysized and tastefully decorated dining space.

It’s 12.30pm and the room is already nearly at capacity. Immediately we’re offered drinks from the ample menu. Something nonalcoholic may seem rather incongruous and yet that’s my preference and I’m not short on choice. A medium-sized glass of veryappropriately-English Rosé (£3.50) tickles Nicola’s fancy, its blend of summer fruits befit the occasion; I’m a firm believer that the vineyards is a place best served by summer.

After but a sip, a waitress arrives to take note of our starters. This is to be the beginning of a meal that is defined by good service.

Clearly Halfpenny Green’s popularity has drilled its staff into a well-oiled machine, performing at optimum levels when others

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wolverhampton west magazine

would be flagging under pressure. We elect to have ‘Smoked Salmon on Crisp Bread with Dill & Lemon Cream Cheese’ (£5) and ‘Chargrilled Pork Belly and Salsa Verde’ (£5).

We both find them to be well-sized and rich with well-judged flavour combinations. I take down the entirety of the salmon, such is my fondness for the stuff, and I enjoy it very much, especially when coupled with the crunch of the bread and the cool of the dill-infused cheese. Nicola dominates the pork, allowing only a morsel for me to try, but even when making do with such a meagre portion I can still speak to the singular taste and expert cooking method used.

A brief pause allows us to soak up another drink each and reflect upon the room. Almost every table is now in use as diverse groups of diners revel in the friendly atmosphere. I watch staff members interact with some in a way that’s telltale of regular visits. And I can see why people want to return again and again because there is a richness of variety here that’s hard to find elsewhere: you can dine in the formal restaurant where we are or lounge in the more informal atrium or even retreat to outside benches. And when the weather is as hospitable as it is today, I can make a strong case for each option.

Arriving promptly but not hurriedly are the main courses: I – because I’m determined to sample a British staple – go for ‘Battered Fish and Chips Hand Cut Chips, Crushed Peas and Homemade Tartar Sauce’ (£12.95) and Nicola chooses – rather more adventurously – ‘Indian Spiced Marinated Chicken, Coriander and Red Onion Braised Rice, Sweet Potato Pakora, Curried Butternut Squash Velouté and Coriander Oil’ (£12.95). Both dishes are generous servings and excite the senses. My haddock is stellar and the homemade tartar sauce delights my palate with its subtleties. So good that it should really be bottled and put on sale. I know Nicola is impressed with her choice because next to nothing remains of it, the greatest compliment anyone could pay. I will admit that I left one of two peas behind but in my defence I had overdone it somewhat on the masterfully meaty chips.

Inevitably, then comes the time-honoured refrain: “have you got room for dessert?” Happily we have, but only just. I manage to squeeze in a rather delicious ‘Treacle Tart with Berry Coulis’ (£6.25) and for Nicola, an excruciatingly indulgent ‘Banana Split Sundae’ (£6.25). How I wish I had room for it myself as I ogle it from across the table. But, that’s what return trips are all about – and I’m sure we’ll be visiting again soon, I just need to remember to leave room for dessert. And to try the Balcony Tapas menu.

Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, Tom Lane, Bobbington, South Staffs, DY7 5EP. Tel: 01384 221122 www.halfpennygreen.co.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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WIN A 3 COURSE MEAL FOR 2 at The Courtyard, Wombourne village’s worst kept secret. Success speaks for itself and Simon and Louise have seen nothing but success since they took the helm in December 2017, with a mission to provide discerning diners with topnotch food at a reasonable price.

“We like to think we offer Wombourne a bit more. The village is well served by eateries and many pubs but we feel there is still demand for us – we definitely bring something new to the table,” says Simon.

The Courtyard in Wombourne is owned and run by husband and wife team, Simon and Louise Ward.

The restaurant is nestled away from the hustle and bustle of Wombourne’s busy High Street in an actual courtyard. One or two signs on High Street point the way to what is fast becoming the

Visit for dinner or lunch, fine wine, craft beer and gin or attend one of their regular events in a warm and welcoming environment all in the heart of Wombourne.

The Courtyard, Walkers Way, High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DP. For bookings please call 01902 894400. www.courtyardwombourne.com

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wolverhampton west magazine

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Yet another plentiful harvest at

Halfpenny Green Wi n e E s t a t e After their biggest harvest on record in 2018, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate wait anxiously to see what grape yield their 2019 harvest will produce!

Harvesting times vary every year, taking place normally around midSeptember, but running as late as November, if temperatures have not been high enough during the summer months. Fortunately, due to dry, warm and settled conditions this summer, Halfpenny Green are expecting another excellent year, with an abundance of ripe grapes waiting to be turned into their 2019 vintage. For the Wine Estate’s winemakers, harvest means around five weeks of intense labour, working well into the night, seven days a week, whilst in the background, the grapes are being destalked, pressed and prepared for the fermentation process.

Just as harvest comes to an end and the leaves on the once flourishing vines begin to turn brown, wither and drop in their continuous cycle, a festive feel

swathes the Wine Estate; with dark evenings, a nip in the air and log-burners a blazing, the unavoidable Christmas rush looms.

What better place though, to enjoy a little bit of Christmas shopping, with the Wine Estate’s shop, home to their own range of thirteen award-winning English wines. Here you will also find a wide range of gifts, perfect for the fast-approaching festive season; from personalised bottles of wine to custom boxes of chocolates or bespoke-made gift hampers.

Along with their wine selection in the Wine Loft, you will find an awe-inspiring range of over one hundred British Gins, many

artisan- produced, to tempt all those gin-lovers out there.

The site is also home to a Craft Centre, featuring fifteen independent businesses, perfect if you’re looking to have a gift commissioned, or if you’re searching for something a little different for that ‘awkward to buy for’ person in your life! The Centre also incorporates Wild Zoological Park, home to a range of animals from all over the world, with VIP experiences available and the largest mixed species bird show finale in the UK. Once your Christmas shopping is done, why not indulge yourself in the Restaurant, which will be serving up all the old favourites throughout the December period, with their traditional Christmas Fayre Menu, available to book now.

With each meal cooked fresh to order by their team of chefs, from the classic Christmas Roast to delicious desserts, there is a festive offering to satisfy any appetite.

So, it seems, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate, nestled in beautiful South Staffordshire countryside, is the perfect destination for all the family this autumn!

For more information visit the website www.halfpennygreen.co.uk

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wolverhampton west magazine

A family business, established in 1983, Halfpenny Green Wine Estate has 30 acres of vines managed

by Martin, which 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

SHOP, DELI, WINE LOFT & BALCONY

TRANQUIL BALCONY AREA FOR WINE AND GIN TASTINGS.

U P COM I NG E V E N TS Wine & Gin Tastings

Guided Tours

Private Dining, Functions & Tours

Available in the Wine Loft throughout the year. Call to book. Gift vouchers available.

New dates for 2020 to be released in December.

Available to book throughout the year, with a variety of catering options available.

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

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

85

Exciting changes at

Rebecca Baddeley, Owner

There have been plenty of exciting changes taking place recently at Halesowenbased bridal boutique TDR. Owner, Rebecca Baddeley explains: “We are delighted to announce that our new build is complete. We’ve been working behind the scenes perfecting every fine detail and we are proud to announce that the TDR Group is all now all under one roof, which allows us to cater for your every need.”

The company’s brand new extension has added 150 square metres to the premises, allowing Rebecca to bring together TDR Bridesmaids, TRD Menswear and Pandora’s Prom at the main bridal store in Manor Lane.

“There are plenty of advantages that have come from having

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the extra space: more stock, a seamless shopping experience - now that everything is under one roof – as well as a lot more fun! Since the new opening we have been crazy busy, it’s a buzz that we just can’t explain - we believe it’s an atmosphere you just have to experience.”

TDR Bridal has been providing brides with a unique and exceptional service for 11 years and that experience has been applied to all aspects of the TDR Group.

They have just won two categories in the Global Wedding Awards that took place in August 2019: Bridal Boutique of the Year 2019, West Midlands and Most Outstanding Customer Service, West Midlands A talented team of experts - individually trained in each sector – are ready and waiting to style you and your wedding party to perfection.

“We are so proud of our team and the experience they create not only for our brides, but bridesmaids and grooms too and we know that everyone will have so much fun when they visit us. We believe that all brides deserve a magical life moment when buying their wedding gown and we also apply the same philosophy to bridesmaids and grooms too.”

And, Rebecca and the team have got plenty of exciting in-house events planned for the future: “We are so excited for the future here at TDR and we have planned lots of events that will utilise our gorgeous new space. These events include designer trunk show weekends, summer sales and accessory events, so please keep an eye out on social media for exciting updates,” adds Rebecca.

Why not pay a visit to TDR today and make your special day amazing?

wolverhampton west magazine

TDRBridal tdrbridal tdrbridal

0121 423 2777 Option 1

24 Manor Lane, Halesowen, West Midlands B62 8QB

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Open: Monday: 9:30am - 8pm Tuesday: 9:30am - 8pm Wednesday: 9:30am - 3pm Thursday: 9:30am - 8pm Friday: 9:30 - 5pm Saturday: 9:00am - 5pm Sunday: 11am - 5pm

hello@tdr-bridal.co.uk

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Chauffeur Driven Luxury Cars & Minibuses Luxury Cars - Gold Service Our fleet of vehicles includes a 4 seater Jaguar XJ, a 6 seater Mercedes R Class, two 8 seater executive minibuses and a Rolls Royce Silver Spirit 1981 Classic

A luxury service th at is more aff ordable than you think, call for a free quote...

• Wedding Hire • Evening Events • Airport Transfers • and any other • Sea Ports Special Occasion...

Luxury travel for all occasions Contact: Keith Warner 01902 847145 or 07772 605764 or Jan on 07860 622545 email: enquiries@imageluxurycars.co.uk www.imageluxurycars.co.uk

Specialist Wedding DJ w w w. s p e c i a l i s t w e d d i n g d j . c o. u k

Professional wedding photographer service for your whole wedding day

Full time professional DJ and Wedding Photography

Specialising in wedding receptions (over 25 years’ experience) We provide online tools, video screen and photography during the evening.

Free planning area on our website allows you to choose a playlist in advance to make sure all your favourite tunes are played.

Photography for all occasions

Newborn Family

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Events Commercial

For more information please call Nik on:

01902 563266 or 07905 329351 Find us on facebook @SpecialistWeddingDJ

wolverhampton west magazine

Ethereal Bridal offers the whole bridalwear package Brides-to-be visiting Penkridge based boutique Ethereal can be sure of a wonderful bridal shopping experience.

As the name suggests, the shop is tastefully decorated in pastel ‘ethereal’ colours and plush fabrics, making the perfect backdrop for some truly exquisite bridal gowns and evening wear.

The calming and friendly atmosphere of the boutique is personified in Eugenie and her staff, whose fun and relaxed approach is very refreshing.

Owner Eugenie, who has a background in the fashion industry of some 30 years says, “We pride ourselves on the exclusivity of our gowns, from international designers such as ENZOANI, WTOO and EDDY K ITALIA and also on our customer service. There are very few places a bride can go to these days to find her dream dress, where she can be guaranteed some friendly expert advice from experienced seamstresses, without being overcharged and also have the reassurance that her gown will be tailored completely in-house, without leaving the premises.”

Ethereal welcomes browsers when the diary allows, but advise booking an appointment to be guaranteed time to try on some amazing dresses and enjoy a glass of prosecco!

For more information visit www.etherealdresses.co.uk Or browse their social media on Facebook or Instagram by typing ethereal _bridal Staffordshire into your search bar.

Based in the village of Penkridge, Ethereal offers each Bride to be a personal experience in choosing their perfect wedding dress.

We are proud stockists of: Eddy K Italia Beautiful by Enzoani Wtoo by Watters Johanna Hehir Also bridesmaids dresses in a wide variety of colours by Onlyway Bridesmaids and bridal accessories by Richard Designs. Now also stocking some of the most beautiful prom and evening wear from designers such as: Chic & Holland Jora Collections Christian Koehlert Ethereal welcomes browsers when the diary allows, but appointments are advised for your bespoke experience.

Specialist in house bridal alterations service available on all bridal wear regardless of where purchased.

Ethereal, Stone Cross, Penkridge, Staffordshire, ST19 5AR

01785 714724

etherealbridalstaffordshire@gmail.com www.etherealdresses.co.uk

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Aristocats

New Autumn/Winter 2019 Collections arriving daily

Aristocats charity fashion show will be held at Patshull Park Hotel on Monday 30th September 2019 in aid Alzheimer’s Society. Limited availability.

Please contact Aristocats for tickets or further details.

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• Aldo Martins • Basler • Betty Barclay • Eugen Klein • Faber • Frank Walder • Joseph Ribkoff • Just White • Olsen • Oui • Rabe

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

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

Tel: 01902 344003

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DYSLE X IA

A N D V ISION Olha Lac BSc (Hons) Dip ScV M.ASvP (Director Optometrist at Taylor Biddle Opticians)

Award winning Schoolvision practitioner Q. What is dyslexia?

A. The word ‘dyslexia’ comes from the Greek and means ‘difficulty with words’. It primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent reading and spelling. It is believed to be one of the most common learning difficulties although many dyslexics are very bright and often have strong visual, creative and problem-solving skills. Many famous and successful people are known to be dyslexic.

Q. What is Visual Stress?

A. Simply explained, Visual Stress (also known as Visual Dyslexia or Irlen Syndrome) is a sensitivity to visual patterns, particularly stripes.

It can occur when a white background appears to interfere with lines of black print and causes difficulties with visual processing of the reading content.

Q. Is Visual Stress the same as Dyslexia?

A. Visual stress is not the same as Dyslexia, but is more common in those who are dyslexic and can occur despite normal vision. It is thought that it affects 12% of the population and 65% of dyslexics.

Many dyslexic people are sensitive to the glare of white backgrounds on a page, white board or computer screen. This can make the reading of text much more difficult.

Q. What are the symptoms of Visual Stress?

reading content and are observed to fidget, move books around, skip words and lines and often rub their eyes and blink frequently.

Frustration and low self-esteem can occur in children who are underachieving at school due to visual stress, therefore early diagnosis is essential. The longer it takes to identify and remedy visual stress, the greater the loss of confidence that can result.

Q. My child has difficulty reading but I was told that his vision is normal?

A. It is important to remember that normal sight may not necessarily be synonymous with normal vision.

Reading is a complex task and involves many aspects. Most recent studies found that people with reading difficulties, such as dyslexia, are more likely to have unstable binocular vision at near distance, which means that their eyes have to work harder than usual to maintain alignment and tracking whilst reading and writing. Some of the conventional tests used in routine eye examination may not show this instability in children. I have used

SCHOOLVISION method for over six years with great success as its battery of tests are very accurate and are specifically designed for testing children. The results are confirmed with Clinical Eye Tracker which shows the stability of eye movement with and without the tint.

Q. Is there a cure for visual stress?

A. There is no “cure”, but visual stress can be reduced or eliminated by the use of coloured lenses worn in spectacles. These are prescribed following Colorimetry assessment when the precise tint is selected with the aid of INTUITIVE COLORIMETER, which produces thousands of colour combinations. The success rate in my practice is around 80%.

Degree of improvement differssome individuals reach up to 150% increase in speed of reading, some about 20% due to other non-visual learning difficulties. Very often children move up several reading levels within a few weeks.

Visual Stress screening cost £35.

Please enquire for further information.

A. Sufferers may report movement and blurring of the text. Letters can appear to reverse or change shape. Halos, colours or patterns, sometimes described as “rivers” or “worms”. Red, sore eyes and headaches are also frequent complaints. These individuals often have poor comprehension of the 96

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Fully wheelchair accessible - New coNsultiNg rooms aNd Facilities accessible by liFt at comptoN!

• Full eye examinations • Contact Lens Checks • The latest eye scanning technology • OCT technology • Daytona Optomap • Visual Stress • Colorimetry Assessments • MECS - NHS Minor Eye Conditions Service

HALF PRICE SUNGLASSES WITH PURCHASE OF PREMIUM VARIFOCALS TRY BEFORE YOU BUY VARIFOCAL OFFER (T&C’s apply) Offers end September 30th 2019

34 Windmill Bank, Wombourne WV5 9JD 01902 895 909

39 Bridgnorth Road, Compton WV6 8AF 01902 750 325

www.taylorbiddleopticians.co.uk

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Fabulous Fashions at

Number Seven

With good customer service now so hard to find on the high street, Amanda’s approach is really refreshing.

“I believe that shopping should be fun and you should leave a store feeling fabulous and completely satisfied with your purchase. I host a special evening once a month – that’s held between 6pm and 8pm - where my customers are invited to enjoy a glass of fizz whilst browsing new styles.”

There’s certainly plenty to choose from at Number Seven: “We’ve got beautiful pieces from brands like Viz-a-Viz, Fransa, Capri, Adini and Marble, as well as Orientique. Our shoe range includes brands like Paula Urban and Cara, we also have a selection of leather bags and jewellery from Eliza Gracious, Envy and Suzy Blue – which is ethically made.”

And, when Amanda is buying she keeps her customers in mind: “I know my customer’s preferences well now, so it’s easier to buy clothes that they’ll love and I always tailor my ranges to suit them.”

If you love stylish clothes, shoes and accessories then you’ll adore Number Seven - Albrighton’s fabulous ladies’ fashion boutique.

Located in Station Road, the boutique is filled with beautiful buys from a wide range of brands which have each been carefully selected by owner, Amanda Potter.

As she explains: “Our styles are perfect for ladies aged 40 and upwards and all of our ranges have been chosen with style and quality in mind.”

Although Number Seven has been established in the village for 50 years, Amanda bought the business just over a year ago and she has been enjoying getting to know her customers.

“I’ve lived in Albrighton most of my life and I’ve shopped at the boutique over the years. In fact, I worked at Number Seven as a Saturday girl when I was 15 years old.”

After going to University, getting married and having her children, Amanda worked in an office job before returning to the boutique to begin a new chapter in 2018.

“When the business went up for sale I jumped at the opportunity 98

to buy it and I’ve had a fantastic time running it so far.”

Amanda is passionate about Number Seven and she prides herself on offering exceptional customer service.

“I really enjoy helping my customers choose clothes that’ll make them look – and feel – great.”

Ladies of all ages can find something special at the boutique and Amanda is always on hand to offer plenty of help and advice.

“Knowing what to choose for a special occasion – or even every day - can be a really difficult task and that’s why I’m always happy to help my ladies find the look that’s right for them.”

Amanda’s customers have helped her to raise money for worthy causes by taking part in her charity fashion shows, which she holds once every season.

“My youngest model is in her late 40’s and the eldest is 74 years old.

All the ladies are different heights, sizes and shapes and have done an amazing job modelling our ranges on the catwalk,” adds Amanda.

So, if you want to treat yourself to something new why not pay a visit to Number Seven today? You deserve it!

And, it’s all too easy to get stuck in a style rut: “We all tend to go for the safe ‘option’ but sometimes just trying on something that you wouldn’t usually pick-out can really surprise you and prove to be incredibly flattering - I love showing customers other options.”

Amanda understands that as women age their figure changes and can recommend a flattering fit, regardless of your size or shape.

“I’d never sell anyone anything that didn’t look good; I’m not interested in just making a sale I want my customers to look and feel great.” wolverhampton west magazine

Number Seven We pride ourselves on personal, friendly service in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Feel free to pop in and browse.

We look forward to seeing you!

Proud to be local stockists of • Marble • Orientique • Capri • Foil • Viz a Viz • Fransa • Envy Jewellery • Eliza Gracious Jewellery • Cara Shoes • Paula Urban Shoes

Present this advert and get 10% off your purchase 7 Station Road, Albrighton, WV7 3QH numberseven14

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Free parking opposite

/numberseven.albrighton

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B o o s h TO X ® New Ways to Keep You Looking Amazing It’s been another busy few months at BooshTOX and now they’ve added some amazing new services.

Laser Teeth Whitening is first up.

In their clean, high-quality clinic, they offer peroxide-free self-service laser teeth whitening. This is a safe, effective and affordable teeth whitening option with session times from as little as 15 minutes.

It’s great way to perfect you smile and always makes for a wonderful gift for friends and family!

They now also have a resident Make Up Artist – Amelia.

She has already established herself at BooshTOX with the recent Prom season and produces stunning looks for festivals, weddings, parties and other special occasions.

BooshTOX® is a thriving Doctorled Aesthetics and Laser Clinic founded by Dr Andrew Booshan – a dual practising Cosmetic Doctor and GP. They have an approach of discreet and comfortable cosmetic and anti-ageing enhancements with little or no downtime.

BooshTOX® is based at excellent facilities at Pendeford Business Park near to the Jaguar Land Rover plant in Wolverhampton.

With proximity to the M54, this gives easy access to their many clients coming in from all parts of the Midlands and Shropshire.

Some of the most popular services offered are:

The clinic continues to get great results with the Venus Velocity Laser Hair Removal machine. This advanced treatment is performed

by Serenna, who is an experienced laser and beauty therapist.

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

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

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• Anti-Wrinkle Injectables including Botulinum Toxin • Lip Enhancement Dermal Fillers – painlessly under anaesthetic nerve block • Fine Line and Wrinkle Fillers • Tear Trough (Dark Eye Circles) Treatment • Cheek Lift & Mid-face Volumisation Treatments • Nose Reshaping (Non-surgical rhinoplasty) • Non-Filler Rejuvenation - Skin Boosters, Micro-needling & Mesotherapy • Plasma (Plexr) Non-surgical Blepharoplasty • Vitamin Drips and Booster Shots • Cosmetic Minor Surgery / Benign Lesion Removal • Levura HIFU No-Needle Facelifts • Laser Hair Removal – treatments by female staff • Laser Teeth Whitening • Make Up Artist for all Occasions BooshTOX® staff are fully qualified and insured for your maximum safety and peace of mind.

BooshTOX® Aesthetics & Laser Clinic, 7 Sidestrand, Pendeford Business Park, Wolverhampton, WV9 5HD Easy access from Wolverhampton (5 mins) and the M54 – Junction 2 Weekday opening until 8pm. Also open on Saturdays.

24/7 Direct Online Booking is available via

www.booshtox.com They are also happy to take enquiries by phone on 01902 212 888 or text at 07555 797 234 wolverhampton west magazine

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Amazing Autumn

LOOKS

By Helen Taylor If you love fashion, then the autumn/ winter season will undoubtedly be your favourite time of year thanks to the array of beautiful clothes, shoes and accessories it brings.

As the nights get shorter and summer holiday season fades to memory, shopping for beautiful new season buys is the perfect pastime. And, because there are just so many fabulous buys, you can choose a new look for every occasion.

Here are our favourite fall fashion finds: Models wear Next – see in store or online for prices.

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Striped Jumper £39 J by Jasper Conran

Metallic Zig Zag Boyfriend Cardigan £49 Nine by Savannah Miller at Debenhams

Wool Cocoon Coat £140 J by Jasper Conran

Tweed Houndstooth Skirt - see in store or online for prices. Wallis ‘Lulu’ Skinny Jean £16 Red Herring at Debenhams

Black Patterned Asymmetric Hem Dress £48 Dorothy Perkins Pleated Marmalade Scarf £22 Laura Ashley

Suede Knee Boots £49 Dorothy Perkins

Cream Knit Jumper £28 Dorothy Perkins

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Crocodile Natural Curve Top Grab Bag £40 Laura Ashley 103

WOLVERHAMPTON HOSPITAL

Women of all ages can be affected by breast disease, but not all breast disease can be cancer. We would advise every woman to check her breasts regularly so that any changes, however small, can be detected and acted upon immediately.

If you feel any abnormality in your breasts, it will be reassuring to know that our ‘Rapid Access Breast Care Clinic’ is available to you as a patient paying for yourself at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital.

With specialist state-of-the-art imaging equipment, you will receive a clinical examination, a mammogram & ultrasound from our experienced specialists, followed by a detailed explanation of your results.

For real peace of mind call us to make an appointment today.

01902 275 856 nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/wolverhampton @WolvesNuffield Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

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Wolverhampton Nuffield Hospital, Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8LE

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NEW RECRUIT FOR BREAST CARE TEAM

Specialist breast care nurse Alison Presland has recently joined the Breast Care team at Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital.

Alison, from Wombourne, is involved in the breast care support group which encourages patients to buddy up and involves them in regular events at the hospital to get to know one another.

In the UK, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer, with 31% of all cancers diagnosed in women being breast cancer. Early detection and improvements in treatment have led to improved survival rates from the disease. Being conscious of how your breasts normally look and feel at different times of the month and regularly checking them is an important part of being breast aware.

in this important area. I did my top up degree in plastics at Birmingham City University. My son also took an interest in healthcare and is now a paramedic. I am delighted to be part of Nuffield Health’s Breast Care team and enjoy meeting and supporting our patients. Our buddy scheme means ladies can meet one another in an informal setting and talk about what interests them.

Our swimwear demonstration and supper were a very popular topic and we have plenty of ideas for our programme of get-togethers “.

Specialist breast care nurse, Alison Presland.

Beginning her interest in nursing over ten years ago, Alison Presland has worked in the NHS and joined the outpatient department at Nuffield Health four years ago.

Alison says, “I have worked at Sandwell and New Cross and provided IV Therapy through the Hospital at Home Service. It was the breast care surgeons I met during my career who sparked my interest

The private hospital in Tettenhall has four consultant breast surgeons and three specialist nurses, haematology and imaging staff. When patients are referred by their GP, the specialist breast team, which has twice weekly clinics, will carry out a detailed assessment which includes a clinical examination, and possibly a mammogram, an ultrasound or both. If required, a guided biopsy and an MRI scan may also be performed.

All tests and assessments are carried out in accordance with the latest National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Guidance and the results are discussed with the patient and any queries are explained.

For patients over 40, who are symptom free and have not had a mammogram in the last 12 months, the private hospital offers a self-referral screening service.

If you would like to find out more, please call 01902 793 234.

Consultant breast surgeons at Nuffield Health Mrs Pilar Matey and Mr Tapan Sircar, consultant radiologist for breast imaging Dr Marie Metelko with the breast care team of specialist nursing, haematology and imaging staff.

For more information, please ring 01902 275102 or to book for our free events: www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/wolverhampton/events www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Real people, real support, real results

Struggling with your weight?

I too struggled with my weight but thanks to The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan and the support of my Consultant I have reached my weight-loss goal.

CONTACT ME TODAY AND LET ME SUPPORT YOU • Available Monday to Friday • No consultation 9am-10pm (weekend or joining fee!

• One-to-one private weekly appointments also available) weigh-ins and measuring • Mobile visits available • Private Facebook Support Group • 100% Support Highly Commended Consultant 2015/16

CWPLouisePeck

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

CWPLouisePeck

Multi Award Winning Team

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Louise Peck

t: 07790 982 888

e: loupeck1@googlemail.com

Cover Wolverhampton and all surrounding areas

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

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

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

wolverhampton west magazine

Healthy racket sports for all abilities From beginners taking up Walking Racketball to hosting a round of the English Squash Masters. From the regular Sunday Boast squash sessions for families, to the club’s Carver Cup competition.

Neil Patel, recently-appointed Chairman of Squash and Racketball, said: “One of the greatest attributes of WLTSC is that it offers a warm and welcoming environment to get healthy, play sport and make friends.

There is so much squash and racketball on offer at Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis and Squash Club over the coming months, for all ages and abilities.

“As well as the Masters and Carvers Cup, we continue to offer our regular Mix-ins, a great network event that mixes an active session with the opportunity to find new playing partners.

“We have a thriving squash and racketball facility that inspires all ages from five to over 70, catering for all abilities.

This includes Walking Racketball, a great way for people to try out the sport for a new challenge or get back into exercise after an injury or absence.

Chris Dawson, WLTSC Head of Squash and Racketball, says: “We have worked with the club’s physio Patrick Hyde to develop this programme, which offers an ideal chance for players to keep their body and mind active but at their own pace.

“Whilst Sunday Boast has seen parents and juniors come together and play as a family, encouraging and nurturing young talent.”

World Squash Day (10am –midday) on October 12th is an open day for all to experience Squash and Racketball facilities at WLTSC.

“The sessions can offer an introduction to the sport of racketball, or an opportunity for people who are returning to sport after a physical or neurological injury, or are suffering from joint complaints.”

Spectators will get the chance to see the top veteran players from around the country at the Masters from November 8-10, while the club’s own Carver Cup competition has its finale on November 22nd.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Some of the season’s squash and racketball finalists face the camera at WLTSC

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Start your fitness journey here Memberships from £21 per month Complimentary health checks Free personal fitness programmes Get in touch Email: leisure@sstaffs.gov.uk

LEISURE

Codsall Leisure Centre 01902 844032

Penkridge Leisure Centre 01785 714152

Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre 01922 417790

Wombourne Leisure Centre 01902 898202

2996 Advert - Leisure Memberships 106mm x 140mm.indd 1

26/04/2019 07:57

WoLVERHampToN

Hip and 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.

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

Nuffield Health Hospital, Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8LE

www.wolverhamptonhipandkneeclinic.co.uk SURGEON MR DAVID SIMPSON

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01902 793241 / 01902 793269 info@wolverhamptonhipandkneeclinic.co.uk

wolverhampton west magazine

Mum’s

the word

Being pregnant is both an exciting and anxious time.

which causes some fluid to leak around the surrounding tissue of your legs and feet.

Another problem pregnant women can suffer from is Varicose veins. These are enlarged blue/purple veins that appear in the bottom half of the leg.

They occur because the circulation in the lower half of the body during pregnancy slows down which could lead to blood pooling in the veins.

Top tips

There are so many changes taking place in the body, but this shouldn’t mean that you should suffer any pain or discomfort during this time. Having to carry not only the weight of yourself, but also the weight of your child means that you are putting more pressure on your ankles and your feet more than ever.

There are many common problems that pregnant women face. One of these is having swollen legs and feet. It is caused when the uterus puts pressure on the veins in the pelvis,

1. Make sure you rest your feet whenever you can and elevate them 2. Wear comfortable footwear which support your feet, ideally ones with a possible arch support 3. Try not to stand for long periods of time 4. Wear Support Stockings/support leggings 5. Keep yourself hydrated to help with swollen feet For any queries or to make an appointment call us on 01902 412022, we will be happy to help.

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

TreaTmenTs for: • Nails, callus, corns, verrucas • Diabetic & arthritic feet • Heel & forefoot pain • Functional & biomechanical issues • Conditions needing orthotics/insoles

Taking the health of your feet to the forefront of importance Open: Mon-Wed 9am-6pm, Thurs 9am-8pm, Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-2.30pm 1a School Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8EJ For appointments please call 01902

214022

info@foottherapy.co www.foottherapy.co www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Photographs courtesy of Designer Photography

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Mount Hotel Tettenhall Guests enjoyed a champagne reception and dinner at the 5th Georgeanne Griffin Memorial Ball in aid of Compton Care hosted by Libby Walton.

2. Archie Abel, Lisa Abel, Ruby Abel, James Abel 3. Nicola Butler, Amy Massey 4. Rebecca Rollason, Kim Marsden, Kirsty Bastable, Natalie Morrelli, Alison Jefferies, Jenny Smith 5. Kavina Patel, Jenny Smith, Kathy Jefferson 6. Poppy Nabbs, Jane Edwards, Angela Nabbs

Guests were entertained thoughout the evening by singer Christopher Nott. The event raised a magnificent total of ÂŁ7000 for Compton Hospice. Girls from the Royal School raised ÂŁ1800 of that by taking part in a sponsored swim at the school.

7. Jodie Mitchell, Mark Mitchell

The room erupted and the party started! A real celebration for this very special lady and definitely one to remember!

10. Wes Fletcher, Isabelle Butler

Sponsored by

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1. Olivia Nicholls, Craig Bolton, Alex Bolton

8. Denise Wade, Bev Nibbs, Judy Thacker, Charlotte Wellington, Libby Walton 9. Glenn Butler, Kathleen Abel 11. Bryony Mason, Courtney Wood, Hannah Massey 12. Leah Fellows, Josh Evans, Dave Fellows, Caroline Marsden

Specialists in helping people to retire early www.midlandifa.co.uk

13. Stephanie Green, Ben Whittall, Stewart Williams, Marie Williams 14. Vicki Wootton (Compton Care), Libby Walton wolverhampton west magazine

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Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging

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Birchfield School Albrighton The Friends of Birchfield School pulled out all the stops for this year’s Birchfield Bollywood Ball, held in the grounds of the school.  Many of the guests entered into the theme of the evening, and thoroughly enjoyed the authentic ambience of the setting.

Sponsored by

The Five Rivers Outdoor catering team excelled whilst guests were whisked into the sounds of Bollywood with DJ Sat of Paradigm Entertainments and Paradigm Asian Events providing the delights of the Desi Nach Dancers, Rickshaws and more! Parents, staff, family and friends all came together to celebrate the end of the academic year and to start the summer in style!

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Specialists in helping people to retire early www.midlandifa.co.uk

1. Caroline Gautier, Liz Calcott, Angelica Parkhouse, Vicki Flavell, Caroline Hulland 2. Amrit Kullar, Raj Kullar 3. Charlie Cambridge, Sarah Morris (headmistress), Harry Morris, Clare Norton 4. Laz Calcott, Gail Rudd, Caroline Hulland 5. Adam Green, Tori Hammond, Matt Denver 6. Andy Timbrell, Louis Timbrell, Debbie Bradshaw, Tim Bradshaw 7. Vicki Robinson, Leigh Robinson, Jaqueline Johnston, Dominic Johnston 8. Edward Khatib, Deborah Beckett, Sophie Brady, Scott Brady 9. Sarah Drury, Leroy McConnell 10. Liz Calcott, Alex Heath , Gail Rudd, Debbie Cambridge, Caroline Gautier, Angelica Parkhouse, Caroline Hulland, Vicki Flavell, Clare Norton (organising committee) 11. Phil Hulland, Guy Calcott, Simon Heath, Nick McGauley 12. Stephen Pass, Ali Pass, John Rogers, Aly Rogers, Lisa Vickers, Clive Vickers 13. Sam Willis, Rebecca Petty, Lara Taylor 14. Brian Wilson, Tricia Wilson, Caroline Gooder, Michael Gooder 15. Lesley Richards, Simon Richards 16. Tracy Judson, David Owen 17. Lavina Thompson, Alex Thompson wolverhampton west magazine

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Wolverhampton Racecourse Nachural Summer Business Ball & Awards 2019

Sponsored by

Over 520 business professionals gathered at Wolverhampton Racecourse on the 28th June 2019 for the 4th annual Nachural Summer Business Ball & Awards.

The black-tie awards night recognised many high growth businesses in the region and beyond including Hadley Group Chairman Stewart Towe CBE, who received the Lifetime Achievement award. The keynote speaker at the event was Homeserve UK CEO Greg Reed and the headline sponsor was Investec Wealth & Investment. Over £10,000 was raised for Acorns Children’s Hospice.

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Specialists in helping people to retire early www.midlandifa.co.uk

1. Byron Dixon, Narinder Johal, Jigna Varu 2. Carl Jones, Ross Coombes 3. Carl Perry, Stephanie Perry 4. Lakhbir Singh, Rin Ryan 5. Matt Jones, Monty Panesar, Stacey Ryan 6. Narinder Johal, Beverley Lindsay, Suzanne Lynch 7. Neil Lloyd, Monty Panesar 8. Nicholas Jones, Martin Lord 9. Peter Smith, Ninder Johal 10. Vik Tandon, Martin Lord, Steve Reid, Ricky Mehra 11. Nicholas Jones, Stewart Towe, Ann Towe, Martin Lord 12. Ninder Johal, Roy Richardson 13. Ophania Wong, James Wong 14. Shinda Hullait, Roger Wouhra, Monty Wouhra 15. Stephanie Henson, Neil Lloyd 16. Steve Britton, Amina Hussain, Paul Cadman 17. Penny Higgs, Peter Higgs wolverhampton west magazine

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Social Scene

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Royston Blythe

1. Nick Malenko, Julie Millard, Royston Blythe

To celebrate Nick`s special birthday this year he decided to throw a fun filled party like no other. Held at Manchester`s latest hotspot Whiskey Downs, this fabulous adults club offers a decadent lounge, with risquĂŠ performers delivering performances that test the imagination. One hundred of his closest friends were invited to share this special event, including the Real Housewives of Cheshire.

The dress code was feather, leather, flesh and whiplash.

3. Daniel Harris, Esther Dee

The Globe Girls hosted the evening and all will be revealed in the new series of the Real Housewives of Cheshire on air in September.

9. Lee Bloor, Darby Ward, Matthew Lucan, Jonathan Barton

2. Tracy Doughty,Yvette Bretnall 4. Wesley Fellows, Ami Corfield, Dave Corfield 5. Globe Girls 6. Royston Blythe, Jo Bridgwood, Nick Malenko 7. Royston Blythe 8. Taylor Ward, Nick Malenko 10. Luca, Kim Guest, Darby Ward, Kelly Farley

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11. Kyle, Ellie Bridgwood, Peter Snowdon

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Dementia care costs

less talk more action required

When Britain’s new Prime Minister makes promises to tackle the growing problem of dementia care costs it, of course, makes headlines.

With more than 850,000 people in the UK living with dementia, and that figure predicted to rise to more than 1 million by 2025, Boris Johnson’s pledge to stop people being forced to sell their homes to pay care costs was undoubtedly welcome.

This causes even more anguish to families who are already enduring exhaustion and stress at an emotionally difficult time as their loved one receives a dementia diagnosis.

But as Michelle Monnes-Thomas, Dementia Champion and Partner in FBC Manby Bowdler’s Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning department says, it’s time for less talk and more action:

They’re faced with having to sell assets, worry about how they will pay the fees and selling the family home because they cannot afford to run the property or it is needed to pay their fees.

The dementia care crisis has been hidden behind closed doors for too long. It is an issue that needs to be directly addressed and delivered – now rather than later.Seventy per cent of people in care homes have dementia or severe memory

The main issue is that dementia – despite its growing prevalence - is not being given the same priority as cancer and other illnesses that are fully funded through the NHS.

Michelle Monnes-Thomas*

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problems and, in some cases, the homes of people who have worked hard to buy their own property are being sold to pay for their care.

Latest figures show that 850,000 people are living with dementia in the UK, with 73,406 being from the West Midlands.

“Worryingly, more and more young people are being diagnosed with dementia in the West Midlands.

For example, figures for 2017 from Public Health England show 4.5 people in 10,000 in the Sandwell area have been diagnosed with dementia before the age of 65.

This is one of the highest rates in England and 1.5 times higher than the England rate of 2.9 per 10,000 people,” added Michelle.

Dementia is a degeneration of the brain that causes a progressive decline in people’s ability to think, reason, communicate and remember, while their personality, behaviour and mood may also be affected.

Across England, there were 43,000 people with young-onset dementia in 2017, 3% of all people who have been diagnosed, according to the Public Health England figures.

The dementia care costs scandal is already being fought on a national stage – the Alzheimer’s Society’s #fixdementiacare fight is calling for an overhaul of the system and the Daily Mail newspaper is calling for politicians to take action.

We can only hope that as the campaign for change gathers pace it does lead to an urgent change in the system. *Michelle Monnes-Thomas is a Partner in our Wills, Probate & Lifetime Planning department.

She heads up the Community Care Team specialising in challenging care decisions and reviewing assessments for care and long-term planning.

She can be contacted on 01902 392484 or michelle. monnes-thomas@fbcmb.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine

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

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The Friends of Bantock House Museum & Park contributions such as this to the Park.

Within the Museum we are funding the rehanging and relining of curtains in the two main reception rooms.

Please consider joining us to enable us to do even more.

Rose “Elina”

The roses in the four beds which BUGs planted for us early this year in the Rose Garden have been flowering very well.

The few that have failed will be replaced in November when we plan to replace those encircling the sundial in the centre.

Money raised from annual subscriptions and at fund-raising events organised by us, or our presence at those put on by the Council, enables us to make

Membership is £10 individual or £15 per household. So that forms can be sent to you, please email: bantockfriends@ virginmedia.com or Tel: FoB secretary 01902 331272 The Bantock User Group (BUG) is always pleased to welcome new volunteers to their team. Gardening and litter-pick are carried out by them on a monthly basis.

If you would like to join them, for more information please call: Val 01902 342715 or Roger 01902 341930.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Registered Charity No 1065808 In conjunction with Fielding auctioneers The Friends of Bantock will be holding their

Next Valuation Day 21st November 11.00am – 2.00pm In the Courtyard Outbuilding A charge of £1 per item – proceeds to The Friends (free to members)

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Codsall Historic Society 2019 Programme of Talks at Codsall Village Hall Tues Sept 17th 7.45pm Ellie Targett – Another Man’s Shoes.

Tues Nov 19th 7.45pm Dorothy Nicolle - The History of Pub Signs.

The true story of one man’s resistance against the Nazi occupation of his native Norway during WWII as told by his daughter, Ellie.

Sven Somme became a leading agent for the allies, recruiting and training more than 60 agents before his arrest by the Gestapo in 1944.

Dorothy looks at the history of pub signs all around the country from earliest times to the present, and tells the stories behind some of our more unusual signs.

www.eservices.co.uk

Visitors are welcome £2.

Tues Dec 17th 7.45pm Max Keen – Talk – Lord Horatio Nelson: Britain’s Greatest Hero?

Visitors are welcome £2.

Tues Oct 15th 7.45pm Ned Williams - Alms Houses - a home for the poor.

Ned explains how alms houses were used to help the poor of the community and where remaining alms houses can be found in the Black Country and further afield.

Well, was Nelson our greatest mariner? Make your own mind up as the facts, figures, battles, personalities and good old British derring-do are presented

by Max dressed as a French admiral.

Visitors are welcome £2.

Visitors are welcome £2.

An experienced IT team providing technical support and services across the City and beyond.

WHAT WE provide • Branding & Design

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With an established and highly-regarded department for History and War Studies, the University of Wolverhampton is recruiting for its portfolio of history courses for this September.

Undergraduate History – BA (Hons), full-time and part-time War Studies – BA (Hons), full-time and part-time History and War Studies – BA (Hons), full-time and part-time History with Secondary Education (QTS) – BA (Hons), full-time

Postgraduate Second World War Studies: Conflict, Societies, Holocaust – MA, part-time Military History by distance learning – MA, fully online History of Britain and the First World War – MA, part-time Twentieth Century Britain – MA, full-time Air, Space and Cyber Power Studies by distance learning – MA, part-time

We’re one of a new breed of university, specialising in degrees that are professional and practical as well as academic.

For more information on the full range of courses on offer: Visit: www.wlv.ac.uk/foss

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Call: 01902 323 518 or 01902 321 081

foss-ug@wlv.ac.uk or foss-pg@wlv.ac.uk

wolverhampton west magazine

Sibling rivalry: a War of WillS

Ex-BA pilot fends off his poorer sisters in battle over parents’ £1.5 million fortune Signing a Will could not be simpler - or could it? The recent case involving retired British Airways Captain Chris Burgess, 65, and his sisters, Jennifer Penny, 69, and Catherine Kennard, 55, reveals the dangers that lie in wait for the unwary when preparing and executing a Will.

Their father, former Judge Jim Burgess, had decided that his son did not need the money as much as his daughters, thanks to his well-paid career. Jim altered his will in 2012 to leave his son a 20% share of the estate, while leaving 40% to each of his daughters. Jim’s wife, Freda, made a mirror Will at the same time. Jim told Chris about the change at a football match, explaining that his sisters were not as financially secure as him.

The dangers of the home made Will

Costly consequences If a Will has not been properly executed then it will be invalid. In these circumstances, it would be necessary to consider whether any earlier Will applies, or whether like Freda, their estate would pass in accordance with the intestacy rules. Frequently, such cases will turn on the evidence of the witnesses who were in attendance when the Will was signed and their credibility.

Failing to execute a Will properly can have serious implications. Not only do you risk leaving your family with a financial and emotional dispute to resolve at a time of grief, but (unlike the very fortunate result in Freda’s case) your final wishes would not be respected. Your legacy could be eaten away by legal bills or unnecessary tax, rather than providing financial security for your loved ones. If you find yourself in the difficult position of having to challenge or defend the validity of a Will, seek independent legal advice as soon as possible.

Jim died aged 88 in 2012 and his assets passed to his wife. Freda suffered a bad fall in January 2013 and 9 days later she asked her son to shred her 2012 Will and draw up a new one for her, splitting the estate equally. Chris obliged.

Jennifer and Catherine argued the 2013 Will had not been properly witnessed as one of its witnesses did not see Freda sign it. The sisters also asserted that their mother, who died in 2016 aged 90, was too frail to understand the terms of the 2013 Will and had not received independent legal advice.

The Court accepted the terms of the 2013 Will were exactly what Freda had wanted and that she had genuinely revoked the unequal 2012 Will by having it shredded. However, the 2013 Will was not valid since one of the witnesses had not seen Freda sign it.

Rebecca Neale of Rees Page’s Dispute Resolution Team, Associate Solicitor and accredited CEDR Mediator.

The decision means Freda died intestate (without having made a valid Will). Her estate will be divided equally between all three children in accordance with the intestacy rules as she wished, albeit this was more by luck than judgment.



What are the requirements to execute a valid Will?

www.reespage.co.uk

01902 577716  rneale@reespage.co.uk 8/12 Waterloo Road, Wolverhampton, WV1 4BL

There are strict rules as to how a Will should be executed set out in the Wills Act 1837. These include that the testator’s signature must be witnessed by two independent adults, neither of whom can be a beneficiary, in the presence of the testator. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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A School You Need To Know About Now! Idyllic childhood?

A country school that looks after your child?

Look no further than Birchfield School, which is situated in the rural setting of Albrighton, close to Wolverhampton, and with easy access to the M54. Birchfield offers children a comfortable and secure start in education that can lead to such a bright future. While outdoor activities and sports form a vital part of school life, academic studies are important, too.

Swimming Gala (Years 3 to 8)

Year 2 at work – Chester

We can offer your child a new start in a school with a tradition that goes back years in a nurturing and supportive environment. Why not come and see for yourself what Birchfield School is all about?

Essington Fruit Farm (Year 2) picking strawberries

Sports Day (Year 8)

Summer (Year 2) playing the cornet

Food Technology

Exciting times lie ahead for your child!

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wolverhampton west magazine

Reception Class 2020 Open Evening Wednesday, 25 September 5.30pm - 6.30pm

Open Mornings Friday, 11 October 10.00am - 12.30pm Saturday, 12 October 10.00am to 12.30pm

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Going back to work? Register early to avoid disappointment!

There might be some who feel relief that they are going back to work and escaping the endless hours of daytime television programmes where Philip Schofield and Hollie Willoughby feel like your best friends!

Some may think that getting back to work will bring back a sense of the identity you held before your child was born. While for others, the thought of leaving your child in someone else’s care can seem overwhelming.

The point is we are all different and react in different ways – so the type of childcare you prefer will also vary. The decision can feel daunting as it is so important to think that you have found the right care for your child while you are at work.

Ideally, you need to feel that whichever option you choose you are secure in the knowledge that your child will be cared for, meeting all your child’s day-to-day needs and giving you peace of mind for you knowing your child is happy and secure. You’ll also want your child to learn and have

fun in the same way as they would if they were at home with you.

There are as many childcare providers as there are reactions to going back to work. So finding the right one for you and your child is essential to you feeling in control when you go back to work.

The key here is preparation. Take time, as far ahead as during your pregnancy to visit a range of providers and types of provider. This will help you decide early the kind of childcare you feel at ease with.

So the message is, look sooner rather than later and book early!

Here at Newbridge Preparatory School, children are accepted from the September following their second birthday into our Tots Room. They then move into our Nursery in the September following their third birthday.

Many parents put their child’s name down from birth, and some even before! We have extensive waiting lists, so the sooner you register, the more choice you will have of sessions and the more likely you will be guaranteed a place in our Reception Class.

Before registering with us, parents are encouraged to make an appointment for a personal tour.

Come and visit us to see our setting and meet our staff. There is nothing better than to see an edu-care setting like ours in full flow to truly appreciate the family atmosphere we have here at Newbridge. Every day is special for us, so there is no need for us to put on a special open day!

Just ring our Admissions Registrar, Annabelle Addison, on 01902 751088 or email aaddison@newbridgeprepschool. org.uk for further information.

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Education

and Schooling

by David Williams – Headmaster of Tettenhall College

How much time did your child or grandchild spend outside in the recent summer holidays?

Although not wanting to delve again into the well-trodden debate about the detrimental effect of screen time on the development of young people, a worrying survey (conducted by detergent company Persil) recently revealed that about 75% of children play outside for less than an hour a day. The survey confirmed that children are spending less and less time playing in the woods, fields, and parks with most parents involved in the survey agreeing that their children spend less time outside than they did in their youth. What is even more disconcerting is that on this evidence prison inmates spend about as much time outdoors as young children-one hour being the UN guideline for prisoners.

The benefits of fresh air and outside play are myriad and a part of a child’s play is getting to be messy, fun, and creative developing their social skills as a result as well as laying the foundations for an active and healthy lifestyle that is essential throughout life.

The loss of that experience is detrimental for children with obesity and stress being some of the results as well as the lack of a simple daily opportunity to “let off 128

steam”. Getting plenty of outdoor exercise during formative years also has an effect on maintaining health and fitness levels and vitamin D is an essential vitamin produced when in the sun, not indoors.

Less well-documented are the effects on eyesight. Being in front of a screen only requires the use of a limited range of eye movement whereas being outside helps improve vision because of the varying distances of trees and objects. The high incidence of myopia (nearsightedness) across East Asia, afflicting some 80-90% of 18-yearolds in urban areas of Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan has been attributed to insufficient time spent outdoors due to excessive screen use as well as the large number of hours studying and reading often required by the education systems in these countries.

Whilst pollution and lack of green space can be a factor in Asian cities, closer to home it is often the fear of allowing children to play outside through fear of traffic, predatory adults or anti-social behaviour and crime. The outside play of yesteryear has seemingly disappeared in favour of parentally organised play dates and the necessity to join clubs to replace the impromptu football or cricket matches that used to take place in parks or on estates or village greens. This of course requires time, organisation and

often money to facilitate although it must be stated that the availability of coaching and regular sessions in sports clubs for children of all ages has vastly improved. Our own summer camp run during the last holiday was a resounding success and local primary school links are being established to give more local children experience of specialist coaching.

In this context schools must do their part in encouraging an outdoor life not only in adequate curriculum time given to sport and competitive fixtures but with Forest School programmes for primary children and the promotion of outdoor education through schemes such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award. The lesserknown National Citizen Service is an excellent government programme for 15 to 17 year olds that for under £50 for a three or four week programme includes a week’s residential at an outdoor centre. I am pleased that Tettenhall College offers the opportunity for all the above with a belief that an active body also leads to an active mind. Equally, we wish to give young people the exposure to activities that will be continued later in life, get them off the couch and build habits that will last a lifetime. I also need to check how much time I spent outside in the last week…

You can follow David on Twitter @tettcoll_head wolverhampton west magazine

personalised education

Open Day Saturday 28th September 10am to 12.30pm Nursery – Preparatory – Senior – Sixth Form Contact: admissions@tettcoll.co.uk • 01902 751119

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Wolverhampton Grammar School

Award-winning

education is closer than you think Wolverhampton Grammar School is an extraordinary school. Founded in 1512, it’s one of the oldest schools in the country, within easy access of the wider West Midlands, Staffordshire and Shropshire thanks to flexible school bus links.

National award winning and ranked top of the league tables for grades 9-7 at GCSE, the school is rated “excellent” by school inspectors. The school also ranks top 25 nationally for GCSE results across all independent schools.

First priority is the happiness of your child Children at Wolverhampton Grammar School receive pastoral care like nowhere else – that’s because happy children do well, thrive, and leave the school with excellent exam results and the confidence to embrace whatever opportunities come their way.

Your child will never feel alone at Wolverhampton Grammar School.

Assistant Head of Pastoral Care, Claudine Jones leads a team of staff to support and work with families to ensure every child gets the care and individual attention

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that they need. Support includes a dedicated, expert pastoral team, School Counsellor and annual adolescent mental health tracking using the latest digital tools.

Academic excellence The academic achievements of the students speak for themselves.

All teachers are experts in their own academic disciplines, trained and experienced professionals who love their subjects as much as they enjoy teaching students.

Small class sizes and space for individual tuition enables the teachers to get to know each and every child. Wolverhampton Grammar School also offers a tailored and individual approach to UCAS and Careers support and students can expect the very

best preparation possible when it comes to life after school. Our examinations and Sixth Form team ensure every student is supported with the very best support possible to ensure students make the right choice for their next step.

Life outside the classroom The school offers over 100 extracurricular clubs – the largest range available from any school in the area. Everything from Political Forums, Technology clubs, Debating, Warhammer to Climbing, Cooking and Gardening.

Residential trips begin as early as Year 3 and from Year 7, all children have the opportunity to travel to Europe, culminating in a choice of worldwide expeditions for older students.

Interested to learn more?

The school hosts open events throughout the year. The next Open Day is Saturday 5th October, 11am to 3pm. Alternatively, contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar at Wolverhampton Grammar School telephone 01902 422939, email jam@wgs-sch.net or register visit the website www.wgs.org.uk wolverhampton west magazine

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

25

acre site

Dedicated, Expert Pastoral Team Judged ‘Excellent’ in all areas by the Independent Schools Inspectorate

School

Securing places at the most prestigious universities including Oxford and Cambridge

Open Day

Saturday 5th October 2019, 11am-3pm

Wrap around care from 7.30am - 6.15pm A community like no other

For more information about the open day or joining our School, please contact Jane Morris, Admissions Registrar.

T: 01902 422939 E: jam@wgs-sch.net or register online www.wgs.org.uk

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Flexible and convenient School Bus Services across 3 counties

TES Independent School Award Winners 2018 131

Glowing Report

for St. Dominic’s Grammar School middle school entry at Year 9 for your child or Key Stage 2 entry, you will be pleased to know all of our students, ‘make good progress relative to their starting points.’

To ensure the school remains as inclusive and accessible as possible, our fee structure has changed. Key entry points into the School will have a reduced fee. Year 7 will cost an annual starting fee of only £7500, and Year 12 at £7,750. The Reception class will stand respectively at £5000 annually. For those considering 2020 entry, early registration is advisable.

St. Dominic’s Grammar School has been given a glowing report this year by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), with inspectors commenting, they couldn’t think of a single way that pupil development could be further improved.

‘pupils’ behaviour, both within and around the school, is exemplary’ and ‘they possess very high levels of confidence for their age.’ This follows on from a successful transition to co-educational learning in the Senior School. To view the full inspection report, please see the school website.

At St. Dominic’s we believe a happy child learns best. So, whether you are considering

You are warmly invited to our Whole School Open Morning on Saturday 12th October between 10am – 1pm. The Year 7 entrance examination will also take place on this day. Please ensure you register beforehand to secure a place. You will have the opportunity to view our outstanding school facilities and meet our experienced teaching staff.

For further details about how to join St. Dominic’s, please contact our Admissions Secretary via phone on (01902) 850428 or email: secretary@ stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk

With small class sizes, vertical tutor groups, peer mentoring and a wealth of enrichment clubs, including a nurture club, St. Dominic’s strives to create an all-inclusive family atmosphere.

With more applications than ever, Headmaster, Peter McNabb, comments, ‘we are deliberately small and will continue to be so, so that we can continue to offer the bespoke and personalised care which is unrivalled and valued by parents.’

Pupil development gained further accolade from inspectors as, 132

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ST. DOMINIC’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL GIRLS AND BOyS 4 - 18

‘Their self esteem grows… as they benefit from the family atmosphere.’

ISI 2019

Whole School Open Morning & Year 7 Entrance Exam Saturday 12th October 10am - 1pm Reduced Fees for Key Entry Points T: www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk 01902 850248 E: secretary@stdominicsgrammarschool.co.uk

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Leading composer

to launch ambitious new music school The festival took place at the National Concert Band Festival’s National Final, held at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester where the jazz band were successful in the School Big Band category.

Youngsters also staged a sellout run of the popular musical Guys and Dolls which wowed audiences across three nights.

A Shropshire school is in the running for a national award for its performing arts provision as it prepares for curtains up with its ambitious new music school.

Wrekin College has been shortlisted for the Independent Schools of the Year 2019 Performing Arts School of the Year Award (music and drama) and will now go forward to the final to be held in London in October.

It will be part of an exciting year for Wrekin which is also preparing to take the wraps off its £2.5million music school in January.

Simon Platford MBE, Director of Music at Wrekin College, said: “I’m so proud of all that has been achieved by the performing arts department and all the exciting times we have ahead of us in music and drama.

“Music at Wrekin is going through a really exciting period as work continues on the new music school which will feature a dedicated, acoustically engineered rehearsal space for our large ensembles along with a host of smaller rooms for small groups, individual practice and tuition.”

“This will create a state-of-the-art facility where we can bring talented musicians together to help them reach the highest standards and become the best they can be, whilst also enjoying being part of our many groups, playing together.”

Jazz Bandleader and upper sixth student Alex Phillips said:

“Our performance and then the festival award ceremony made it such a special day and one that I will remember forever.

“Being able to perform individually and as part of the group at Wrekin College has given me so many special memories.”

The new music school is due to be officially launched on January 10 when guests will be given the chance to not only attend a concert featuring Mr Stopford but get a behind the scenes look at the music school.

The Independent Schools of the Year Awards is run by Independent School Parent, a leading magazine for the sector.

Judges said the response to entries this year had been fantastic with hundreds of schools submitting high-quality bids with transformative and innovative projects and programmes singled out for award nominations.

Wrekin College will stage a joint open day with Old Hall School, which shares the same Wellington campus, on Saturday, October 5 while Wrekin will also hold an open event for its sixth form on Thursday, September 26, from 6pm.

The launch will include a prestigious performance by British composer Philip Stopford, who is renowned for his beautiful music for choirs.

Now New York-based he works and performs across the globe and will lead a workshop for the Wrekin College choir during his visit.

This comes after a very successful year for pupils in which Wrekin’s resident jazz band picked up a top national music award for the second year running.

The jazz band was recognised for its talent, once again, after attaining a platinum award at the National Concert Band Festival national finals for the second time.

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TOGETHER WE ALL ADD UP TO

GREAT OPEN DAY Joint Open Day for Old Hall School and Wrekin Saturday 5th October 10am - 1pm Wrekin Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday 26th September 6pm

Find out more: www.oldhall.co.uk • www.wrekincollege.com

Co-educational day school 4-11 admissions@oldhall.co.uk 01952 223117

Co-educational day and boarding school 11-18 admissions@wrekincollege.com 01952 265603

Wellington, Shropshire

Registered Charity No. 528417

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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Codsall High Federation

Aiming for excellence

to do things for them. We aim to produce self-sufficient, resilient and hardworking young people who have a zest for life and make the most of the opportunities afforded to them.”

Codsall High Federation of Schools incorporates Codsall Community High School, Bilbrook (CE) Middle and Perton Middle Schools, located in South Staffordshire.

The Federation caters for students aged 9 to 13 years at the middle schools and ages 13 to 18 years at the High School and Sixth Form Centre. The schools have an exceptional reputation for their academic and sporting provision and have a strong track record of success. Codsall High School has produced excellent results in GCSEs, A level and Vocational subjects for a good number of years with students leaving with outstanding outcomes and excellent prospects. Both Bilbrook Middle and Perton Middle are consistently amongst the highest performing middle schools in the county.

During Mr Alun Harding’s first four years as Executive Headteacher of the Federation, he quickly

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established new structures in each of the three schools to allow them to flourish and achieve the aim of being recognised centres of excellence. All three schools have been inspected by Ofsted recently with each being graded as “Good.”

The latest inspection judgements will be used as a springboard for the many exciting ideas about how the schools will develop still further over the next few years; “For us it is about developing a world class learning environment through a consistent focus on the really important element of our job – teaching and learning.

There is much that is already excellent and we are justifiably proud of so many things. However, we are far from complacent and are relentless in pursuing the incremental gains that will allow us to achieve our goals,” said Mr Harding.

Mr Harding was also keen to point out that it wasn’t just about the impressive academic work that goes on within the federation. “It’s also about ensuring that we produce respectful and kind young people that are able to go on and make a success of life once they’ve left the safety of the school environment.

We don’t want our students to be spoon fed individuals who depend on others

Whilst all three schools are part of the same federation Mr Harding is determined to allow each to flourish and develop to enhance its own unique identity. “Each school has a very distinct character and I want to encourage and enhance that,” he said. “Whilst each school can benefit from being within the federation and the broad aspiration of excellence in all that we do is consistent, it’s still important that each school maintains its uniqueness.“ “Parents choose an individual school,” he continued “not a federation and therefore it’s vitally important that we don’t lose sight of the things that make them special. The best advert we have is for parents to come and see us working. Parents are incredibly impressed by what they see in the classrooms and corridors and I’m always delighted to be able to demonstrate to parents just what makes each of our schools so special.

wolverhampton west magazine

Codsall High Federation of Schools Open Events 2019

Thursday 19th September • 6pm-8pm Bilbrook CE Middle School admits students for Year 5 admissions 2020 and Year 7 admissions 2020. Limited places are available in other year groups, please contact the school to enquire. 01902 840910 • www.bilbrookmiddle.com

Thursday 26th September • 9:15am-10:45am & 6-9pm Codsall High School admits students for Year 9 admissions 2020.

Limited places are available in other year groups, please contact the school to enquire.

01902 907560 • www.cc-hs.com

Thursday 3rd October • 6pm-8pm Perton Middle School admits students for Year 5 admissions 2020 and Year 7 admissions 2020. Limited places are available in other year groups, please contact the school to enquire. 01902 758244 • www.pertonmiddle.com

Thursday 17th October • 6pm-8pm

Sixth Form Open Evening Codsall High School Sixth Form admits students for Year 12 and 13 admissions 2020.

01902 907560 • www.cc-hs.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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The Combined Rotary Clubs of Wolverhampton

Bilston and Wolverhampton West, Tettenhall, Wednesfield, Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton St. George’s

Seven inspirational young people honoured for outstanding community service Foundation, Wolverhampton West Magazine, Bilston and Wednesfield Magazines. The awards are in memory of Tom Warren, a Wolverhampton Rotarian who was the City’s Director of Education for 25 years and became President of Rotary International in 1945.

Pictured with the Mayor of Wolverhampton Cllr.

Claire Darke and Chairman, Roger Timbrell, are left to right: Neve Francis, Samuel Iyawe (Winner) Melvin Riley (Runner Up) Katia Medjdoub, Eve Williams, Clinton Omoruyi and Jude Aston (Runner Up).

Neve Francis aged 14, Moseley Park School, is an ambassador and role model for other pupils in her school. She recovered from cancer as a baby and devotes a lot of time to fundraising and helping others.

Samuel Iyawe, Moreton School, age 14, is Vice Chairman of the City’s Children in care Council.

Nigeria born, he is a voice for young people and has worked hard to improve the lives of youngsters in the care system. He was selected as the overall winner.

Melvin Riley, St. Peter’s School, age 17, was runner up. He is involved in the B-Safe programme and a passionate advocate for young people on safeguarding.

Katia Medjdoub, age 17, Our Lady and St. Chad Catholic Academy.

Katia was born in Algeria and is a young leader at her school. She is passionate about raising awareness 138

about homelessness and is part of the National Citizenship programme.

Eve Williams, Age 14, has been home educated all her life.

She is an inspirational member of The Way Youth Zone and volunteers at community hubs and teaches youngsters to swim.

Clinton Omoruyi, Heath Park School, age 15, came to Wolverhampton via Nigeria and Spain. He is a Spanish Young Interpreter and plays an active role in helping new students to settle into school life.

80 people including parents, nominators, teachers and Rotarians attended the awards evening in the Civic Suite. Chairman of the Organising Committee and Master of Ceremonies for the evening, Rotarian Roger Timbrell said “These awards are now in their sixth year. There are many young people in our City who are making a positive contribution to their community. I am passionate about celebrating the achievements of the very best of them. They are wonderful role models and deserve to be recognised. Many of them have gone the extra mile to help others, despite adversity.”

Actress Gill Jordan who plays Black Country comedienne Doreen Tipton presented certificates to the finalists.

Jude Aston, Highfields School, age 14, suffers from cerebral palsy but has refused to let his condition hold him back. A You Tube vlogger and mainstay of the school’s television channel, he gives talks encouraging others to overcome barriers. He was a runner up.

Hosted by the Mayor of Wolverhampton Cllr. Claire Darke, the awards ceremony was sponsored and organised by the city’s five Rotary Clubs (Bilston and West Wolverhampton, Tettenhall, Wednesfield, Wolverhampton and Wolverhampton St. Georges) in partnership with the City Council, Waitrose, the Express and Star, The Way Youth Zone, Wolverhampton Wanderers

Winner, Samuel Iyawe with ‘Doreen Tipton’

wolverhampton west magazine

South Staffordshire Golf Club Great for Golf and Much More…

Prized by its members and praised by visitors, South Staffordshire Golf Club has long been regarded as one of the finest courses in the West Midlands, it was founded in 1892, the club – that’s located just outside the picturesque village of Tettenhall, in Danescourt Road – is set in 160 acres and boasts a 6512-yard par 71 course.

“We’ll be serving Christmas Fayre from Monday 26th November – Saturday 22nd December, three course festive fayre will cost just £20 per person at lunchtime or £22 per person in the evening.”

If you’re planning a special event though, you’ll be pleased to know that the club is available to hire for all

private functions, including weddings, small parties, Christenings and wakes.

So, whether you’re keen to enjoy a great round of golf, treat yourself to a delicious meal or maybe find the perfect venue for that special occasion, you’re sure to discover just what you’re looking for at South Staffordshire Golf Club.

An exciting corporate membership opportunity is now available to 7-day South Staffs members.

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.”

Upgrade your current individual membership to include a corporate package for an extra £300 or £600 (plus VAT) per annum depending on the requirement.

For £300 get 12 rounds of golf for clients/ staff, bar card and 1 free room hire For £600 get 24 rounds of golf for clients/ staff, 2 bar cards and 2 free room hires.

Also available is a traditional corporate package at a cost of £1000 plus VAT which includes 30 playing rounds, free room hire, bar cards and a company golf day for up to 12 players.

We can also create a bespoke corporate package for you.

If you have family or friends who may be interested or would like further information please contact Sue LeBeau 01902 751065.

m em So fo pe r av b cia rs on ail ers l on ly ab h i pe £5 le ps 0 r p ye e ar r

“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.”

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

FULL 7 DAY MEMBERSHIP

FLEXIBLE MEMBERSHIP

20 miles + away

7 day memberships available plus other membership categories

Local and only play occasionally?

Unlimited golf at South Staffs for £530 per annum

A voucher based membership – 10 x 18 holes and 10 x 9 holes £530

All the above membership categories are subject to affiliation fees

The club is available for hire for all private functions For more details please contact our Club Manager, Sue LeBeau on 01902 751065 or email suelebeau@southstaffsgc.co.uk

The South Staffordshire Golf Club, Danescourt Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9BQ Tel: 01902 751065

@SouthStaffsgc

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

/SouthStaffsGolfClub www.southstaffordshiregolfclub.co.uk

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

                 

               

                                       

                            

             

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wolverhampton west magazine

WERGS GOLF CLUB

NeW memBerSHIP oFFerS ( A g e r e L AT e d P r i c e s )

5 year membership plan YEAR 1, YEAR 2 AnD YEAR 3 PAY FULL PRiCE

YEAR 4 AnD 5 – PAY HALF PRiCE* *terms and conditions apply

VISITOR LOYALTY SCHEME Play 4 rounds of golf and get 5th round FREE

Sky Sports TV

NEW DRIVING RANGE

New 8 bay covered driving range open 7 days per week A great place to practice and improve your game all year around Only £3.00 for 50 balls

Free WiFi

Breakfast & Lunch

SPORTS LOUNGE Open to all – The ideal place to meet friends whether you’re a member or not!

Good atmosphere

THE IDEAL SETTING FOR SPECIAL FUNCTIONS - WAkES, CELEbRATION PARTIES, WEDDINGS, bUSINESS CONFERENCES

WWW.WerGSGoLFcLuB.com Wergs Golf Club Keepers Lane, Tettenhall Wolverhampton West Midlands WV6 8UA

For booKings or More inForMATion PLeAse eMAiL inFO@WERGSGOLFCLUB.COm

or cALL

01902 742 225

e info@wergsgolfclub.com www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Prices correct at time of going to print 141

Team building continues

off the pitch at WWFC

Wolves have agreed an official partnership with Three Pines Building Company, cementing a more than 25-year relationship between the two companies.

Three Pines have been working with Wolves since the 1980s and have been visible around Molineux via matchday stewards’ coats.

They have completed many constructional improvements at Molineux and the Sir Jack Hayward Training Ground in recent years.

Three Pines was established in 1961 in the heart of Wolverhampton and have continued to grow and expand year on year, working alongside Wolves.

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The building company is a multiskilled organisation operating in the construction sector, offering services to a diverse range of clients throughout the UK in both the commercial and domestic sectors.

Lifelong Wolves supporter and managing director of Three Pines, Alan Bradshaw said: “Three Pines have had links with the club since the late 1980s, carrying out refurbishment and maintenance work, and we are proud to say we have continued since.

next step forward with the club in becoming an official partner.”

Wolves head of operations, Steve Sutton added: “Wolves and Three Pines Building Company have enjoyed a long and successful relationship over the years, across many different regimes and eras for the football club.

“Their standard of work has always been first class and their improvements of the stadium and training ground, particularly in recent years, have been fantastic.

“Our first large sponsorship with the club started around 15 years ago with the sponsorship of the Wolves stewards, with every steward in and around the stadium sporting the Three Pines logo.

“Although the two companies have worked closely for many years, we are delighted to welcome Three Pines on board in an official capacity and we’re excited to be heading into a new and exciting season working alongside them.”

“We are proud to continue this sponsorship and look to do so for many years to come. We are so excited to have now taken the

To find out more about Three Pines Building Company visit their website here: www.three-pines.co.uk wolverhampton west magazine

W inter

T y res

Winter tyres are not just effective in extreme snow conditions, they provide a decreased braking distance on icy roads, improved braking in wet conditions and provide better emergency braking on wet, icy and snow-covered roads.

• Resistance to aquaplaning – The specific tread pattern design of winter tyres can disperse more water which reduces the amount of water between the road and your tyres.

tyres, we offer a ‘Tyre Hotel’ service. Your summer tyres will be labelled and safely stored on our premises until you need them again. Contact us for further information.

• Increased tyre life

For more information on winter tyres, including our tyre hotel, please contact Simon, Mac or Hayley at HiQ Wolverhampton on 01902 420234.

We offer a wide range of winter tyres and will be able to advise you on the right ones for you. Not only that, whilst using your winter

For these reasons, winter tyres are highly recommended for use in temperatures below 7°C, which in the UK is around 150 days of the year.

Advantages of using Winter Tyres: • Shorter stopping distances – with braking distance significantly reduced in snow, ice and wet conditions • Improved performance and safety – more control in winter conditions due to innovative winter tyre technology

Give us a call.

You’d be barking not to!

HiQ Wolverhampton 11 Chapel Ash WV3 0UB

01902 420234

www.hiqonline.co.uk/wolverhampton

Tyres • Exhausts • Brakes • Batteries • Servicing • MOTs www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel 88 Image Luxury Travel Appliances - Electrical & Gas Capital Appliance Centre 45 Washer Wise 50 Bathrooms 19 Carvers Eaton Kitchens 21 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 35 Beauty Salons & Clinics BooshTox 101 90/91 Heaven Skin Care Beds & Bedroom Furniture 10/11 Cousins Leekes 29 Bedroom Wardrobes (fitted) 35 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique Blinds, Curtains & Shutters 30/31 The Fabric Barn Val Hever Blinds 40 Bridal Wear 89 Ethereal 87 TDR Bridal Halesowen Building Services & Contractors 22/23 Three Pines Butchers 71 Allan Bennett Poxons 71 Caravan Accessories 69 Cannock Caravan Accessories Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists 65 Touch Dry Carpet Supply & Fit 42 Premier Carpets 30/31 Sandford Carpets Car Sales & Service 147 Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton Chiropody & Podiatry Foot Therapy 109 Cleaning services-Interior & Exterior RC Cleaning 62 Day Nurseries 53 Sandhills Delicatessen 70 Corbelli Dentistry Willows 2/3 Design Agencies Olco Design 123 Diet & Slimming 106 Cambridge Diet Domestic Appliance Sales & Repair 50 Washer Wise Domestic & Commercial Building Services JR Latham Group 61 Doors - Composite 47 Doorsmart Drive Cleaning Services 65 DCS Driveways 55 Resindrives.co.uk Education 125 Birchfield School Codsall Community High School 137 Newbridge School 126 St. Dominics School 133 Tettenhall College 129 University of Wolverhampton 120 Wolverhampton Grammar School 131 Wrekin College 135

Electricians & Electrical Contractors 43 Central Electrical Contracts Entertainment & Leisure Enjoy Wolverhampton 144 Estate Agents 13 Berriman Eaton Fashion - Retail Aristocats 93 Number Seven 99 Fencing & Gates Profence 56 Financial Advisors Midland Independent Financial 16/17 Services Fireplaces & Stoves 21 Flaming Fires Wolverhampton Fireplaces 15 Firewood Black Country Firewood 64 Fitness & Leisure Centres South Staffordshire Leisure 108 Furniture & Furnishings 10/11 Cousins Leekes 29 Sofa Factory Outlet 27 The Wood Depot 20 Gaming & Entertainment 76 Casino 36 Garage Services 143 HiQ Tyres Garage Doors 63 Garolla Roller Shutter Doors Garden Design 57 Boningale Garden Creations Gardening & Landscaping 59 Lealans Garden Centre Potting Shed 54 Golf Clubs 139 South Staffs Golf Club Wergs Golf Club 141 Hairdressers 94/95 Royston Blythe Health Care Cover 66/67 Paycare Hospitals – Private 104 Nuffield Hotels 80 Park House Hotel Italian Deli 70 Corbelli’s I.T. Technical Support & Services 120 Wolverhampton Council Jewellers Rudell The Jewellers 148 T.A.Henn 9 Kitchens - Supply, Design & Fit 19 Carvers Dayrooms 25 Dream Doors 39 Eaton Kitchens 21 Kitchen & Bedroom Technique 35 Landscaping Products/Services Able Greenscapes 61 Legal Services Manby Bowdler Solicitors 119 Rees 121

www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

Letting Agents 13 Berriman Eaton Lighting Lighting R Us 43 Loft Ladders 15 Lyndale Markets Penkridge Market 68 Opticians 97 Taylor Biddle Orthopaedic Surgery Wolverhampton Hip & Knee Clinic 108 Painters & Decorators 63 Kevin Jackson Palliative care 72 Compton Care Photography 88 Andrews Creative Crescent Imaging 88 Plumbing & Heating 65 First Choice Plumbing JB Plumbing & Heating 63 Property Maintenance Services 51 S. Parton Building Maintenance Racecourses 81 Wolverhampton Racecourse Reclaimed Timber Specialists 20 The Wood Depot Restaurants/Pubs 76 Casino 36 Halfpenny Green Wine Estate 85 77 Oakley Arms Park House Hotel 80 The Courtyard 83 The Shrewsbury Arms 80 81 Wolverhampton Racecourse Wombourne Tandoori 75 Rugs 41 Frith Rugs Skip Hire 61 Wolverhampton Skip Hire Stairs & Stair Components 15 Lyndale Tailoring & Dressmaking 89 Sew Many Things (Ethereal) Tennis & Squash Clubs Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis & Squash Club 107 Tiles & Interiors 7 Tile Choice Train Services West Midland Trains 73 Tyres HiQ Tyres 143 Vein Clinics Simon Hobbs 106 Vineyard & Craft Centre 85 Halfpenny Green Wine Estate Windows, Conservatories, Orangeries 33 Tettenhall Windows

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The saloon

reimagined

The new MercedesBenz A-Class Saloon is now on sale at Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton.

The Saloon further expands the best-selling A-Class range, and showcases the latest in-car technology. It’s available in a choice of two trim lines: Sport and AMG Line. A seven-speed automatic gearbox comes as standard.

Like the A-Class Hatchback, every model comes packed with a high specification as standard.

The Sport model features twin seven-inch displays including a central touchscreen with MBUX multimedia system with ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice activation; comfort suspension; DAB radio; 17-inch alloy wheels; Artico and Fléron fabric upholstery; automatic twozone climate control; Active Lane Keeping Assist; Speed Limit Assist; and Keyless-Go starting function.

The design of the new A-Class Saloon has the proportions of a dynamic and compact saloon car with short front and rear overhangs.

The front end design looks very

progressive. Contributing to this impression is the low, elongated bonnet, the slimline headlamps with chrome element, the torch-like daytime driving lights - plus the single-louvre diamond radiator grille with the central star.

which uses artificial intelligence to learn your preferences, and features intelligent voice control with natural speech recognition.

Just say the words, “Hey Mercedes, cool me down” and let MBUX do the work for you!

Inside, the A-Class Saloon’s cabin offers the same irresistible blend of radical styling, premium quality materials and high-end technology that have made its hatchback counterpart such a success. From the striking turbine-style air vents to the innovative driver assistance systems adopted from our flagship S-Class Saloon, every element has been designed with your comfort, safety and enjoyment in mind.

“Following the successful start of the A-Class, things at MercedesBenz are happening in quick succession with regard to the new family of compact cars.

We now offer the A-Class for the first time also as a saloon car”, says Peter Smith, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton. “Anyone looking for a compact, sporty saloon with a separate boot now has a new attractive alternative, we can’t wait to have the car in our showroom soon.”

Your new car will get to know you with the MBUX infotainment system,

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton, Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 4HD Tel: 01902 276977 146

wolverhampton west magazine

Power and finesse, in equal measure.

The Mercedes-Benz CLS Coupé.

To experience the CLS Coupé yourself or for more information on the model, get in touch with Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton on 01902 276 977.

Mercedes-Benz of Wolverhampton Penn Road, Wolverhampton, WV2 4HD 01902 276 977 Lookers.co.uk/Mercedes-Benz Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the CLS Coupé - MY 20 range: combined 30.1(9.4)45.6(6.2). CO2 emissions from 202-137 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions, chosen optional extras and other non-technical factors. www.wolverhamptonwestmag.co.uk

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