Lifestyle Magazine - May/June 2021

MAY/J UNE 2021

WIN

Afternoon tea, an overnight, stay and a spa treatment courtesy of Achill House Spa

FASHION

Look fabulous at your BBQ or garden party!

INTERIOR FEATURE Outdoor living

www.lifestylemag.org.uk

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

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68 FINANCE

62 PETS & GARDEN

WEDDINGS

FOOD & DRINK

51 COMPETITION

42

HAIR & BEAUTY

34

36

45

BUSINESS

MOTORING

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Asking for help isn’t easy. But it’s important to take a break.

HEALTH

TRAVEL

Respite and relaxation with 20% off FASHION

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38

PUZZLE

PROPERTY EDUCATION

SENIOR LIVING

HOME

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The past few months have been challenging for everyone especially those caring for an elderly loved one.

At Sunrise, we’ve developed new ways to protect our residents physically, mentally and socially, allowing us to welcome new residents safely. And now we’re offering 20% off respite care*.

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We’re working hard so that, for a short time, you don’t have to.

Call 01902 928277 or visit SunriseTettenhall.co.uk for more details.

welcome

Sunrise of Tettenhall

HAND DELIVERED TO 15,000 SELECTED HOMES AND BUSINESSES

WV6, 8 & 9: Wightwick, Tettenhall, Stockwell End, The sunshine is out so it’s time to make the most 73 Wergs Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV6 9BN

Lower Street, Claregate, Compton, our outside space, tending to our gardens and Residential, and dementia care home Perton, Perton Ridge, Pattingham,

enjoying sharing time in themnursing with friends and *Terms and conditions apply. Please visit Burnhill Green, Ackleton, Chesterton families. www.sunrise-care.co.uk/care-services/terms-and-conditions for more information

WV15: Worfield and Hilton WV3, 6 & 7: Finchfield, Codsall, Codsall Wood,

Oaken and Lower Penn WV5: Wombourne, Seisdon, Claverley, Trysull, and Sandford

Congratulation to Mrs Edwards who has won the hair makeover by Royston Blythe.

ADV_TET_0221_Respite_02.indd I hope you enjoy your read and don’t forget to enter this editions competition to win afternoon tea, an overnight stay and a spa treatment courtesy of Achill House Spa.

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Christine Arnold | Managing Director 07970 681004 Christine@lifestylemag.org.uk The Studio | Design 01902 744544 sales@thestudiogroup.co.uk

EARN MONEY & KEEP FIT Distributors wanted for Codsall, Palmers Cross, Claverley, Tettenhall, Trysull and Seisdon areas

Feature Writers and Editor: Mike Whitehurst, Sally Mansell, Louise Rose, Libby Williams, Michelle Round and Bob Hickman

Ring Graham on 07969 884247

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23/02/2021

home

this months interior by

Jennifer Suzanne Create an extra room outdoors with Jennifer Suzanne Interiors top styling tips.

With the clocks going forward and the excitement of better weather on the horizon it’s a good time to start planning your outdoor living space and what better way to start with some of my expert tips…

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And there’s no better time to make those home improvements, particularly with our up to 45% off summer sale on windows, doors and conservatories.

Maybe you fancy entertaining friends outside with a seamless transition from your home to your garden with some wide span sliding patio or bi-fold doors?

Or perhaps you are looking to turn your old conservatory into the perfect space for all the family with a replacement roof?

Whatever you’re planning to do at home this summer, make sure it provides you with what you need.

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N O W O N E L A S SPRING CLEAN UP Firstly I recommend to clean the patio area and give all your existing furniture a good spruce up, sweep up the falling leaves, mow the lawn and weed the borders, prune the hedges, a good outdoor spring clean! My top favourite furniture go to is showerproof rattan it’s look so stylish but is hardwearing and comfortable.

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COMFY, COZY TEXTILES A great way to inject colour and pattern into your patio area is cushions.

I visualise the area and treat it like an overall space and an extension to your home choosing a colour theme and style elements to compliment the home interiors whether its country or contemporary.

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home There are plenty of great outdoor cushion available I’m favouring different tones of blue and white, in stripes and ikat prints. Also outdoor rugs are becoming more popular and are great way of zoning the patio area and give a real sense of a living space. There are also lots of optional stylish outdoor rugs you can leave outside.

Throws and sheepskin look and feel great and draped off the back of your garden chairs look inviting and cozy and will keep the chill off your guests if they forget to bring a jacket.

Another idea is outdoor pouffe great for putting your feet up and relaxing, think of choosing woven or jute material pouffe which is a great material and can hold up a few bits of rain drizzle.

Also oversize bean look really fun and friendly and why not add in a hammock and rock away in the evening sunshine.

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home

ILLUMINATE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE Garden lighting can suit all budgets, for a less expensive option up cycle your empty glass jars as they look great when used en masse with a bag of tea light candles and have the glass arrangement at different heights to make it less formal and more relaxed.

If you have a pergola or garden trees you can suspend decorative festoon lights or weave in pretty fairy lights for an enchanting look.

Lighting up your garden boarder, fences, and pathways, your outdoor lighting has to suit the garden style. If are you more traditional country or a contemporary designer garden, choose outdoor lighting that reflects your chosen style.

Just remember to choose water resistant lighting that is suitable for outdoor use

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Now Stocking Outdoor Living Furniture

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home PLANTING I’m no garden expert but appreciate a wellplanted garden. I’ve always been a huge fan of the benefits of biophilla design and the importance it has on our well-being, health and emotional comfort. I especially appreciate the wildlife that plants and the relaxing sound of bees buzzing about and birds and butterflies fluttering creating a truly magical garden experience.

My top ultimate favourite is hydrangeas they look so beautiful and classic I’ve got a slight obsession with blue and white hydrangeas, they do so well in pots from my experience, just got to water well on hot days.

Also there is nothing prettier and mood enhancing than the smell of lavender, and I love the symmetry and balance of topiary design, plus there are so many topiary tree varieties holly, laurel, boxwood, and privet that keep your garden looking interesting all year round.

OUTDOOR MIRROR Last year I invested in a rustic garden mirror and it transformed my garden, especially as I have a small garden it helps to bounce light and gives the illusion of depth and space beyond the wall on which it hangs.

Growing in popularity, garden mirrors are must-have garden accessories, enabling you to bring the inside out and create your very own outdoor ‘living room’ creating a gorgeous outdoor feature. Although some wildlife mainly birds can get a bit confused by mirrors so please be cautious and choose an area where birds are not likely to fly towards. And to avoid a potential fire hazard, ensure that your outdoor mirror isn’t placed in direct sunlight, so shady areas are ideal.

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home TABLESCAPE ACCESSORIES Create an inviting but relaxed outdoor table scape with natural woven under plates, linen table cloth and napkins, cutlery, plates, glasses and an alfresco drinks tray complete with ice bucket and bottle carriers.

If you have a celebration or event coming up such as a special birthday or anniversary and would like to find out more about how I can help you to style your garden ready for an outdoor party please contact Jennifer@jennifersuzanne.co.uk

Keep up to date on all my latest interior projects and design inspirations please follow me on instagram @jennifersuzanneinteriors For all your interior design queries please contact Jennifer@jennifersuzanne.co.uk or call 07977330011

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home

dreamworld have re-opened their doors with a massive clearance sale!

With stock including luxury divan’s, 3 piece suites and fabulous dining furniture there is no better time to take a look!

Roger and the team have slashed the prices across the store and not only that they offer Free delivery, Free removal of your old furniture and a wide selection to suit every taste. With customer satisfaction being paramount, Dreamworld offers a bespoke service, so if you can’t find the exact size colour or comfort type then we will do our very best to find the best solution for you.

Dreamworld are open seven days a week with parking right outside, so why not pop in and have a look at what is on offer?

8 Stallings Lane, Kingswinford DY6 7HU Tel: 01384 295660

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home

sandford carpets and fabric barn Karndean and engineered wood, together with laminates and vinyl’s all at also very competitive, affordable prices, which are genuinely low all year round. Sandford Carpets are a platinum dealership for Brinton’s Carpets for the Wolverhampton area.

Sandford Carpets is run by a husband and wife team Gary and Kim. They will use their extensive knowledge to help and advise you when you are deciding on what new flooring you want. They are experts in explaining to you the differences of the choice of carpets and flooring and will also advise you on your colour choice to get the look that you want. They will then let you to take away samples to try at home.

Sandford Carpets offer a very professional service with a dedicated, skilled work force that have built an excellent reputation over their many years trading in Wolverhampton.

Their expert fitters offer a free measuring service. They will also move your furniture for you and will take up your old carpet if required, Let Sandford Carpets take the stress out of having your new carpet or flooring fitted.

Their showroom and ware-house opened in 1989 which is situated on the Trysull Road, in Bradmore -The distinctive wood cabin frontage looks small from the outside, but it is just like the Tardis on the inside. It really is a lot bigger than you would ever imagine!

For those that have an eye for soft furnishings or are looking for curtain fabric, within their newly refurbished showroom is The Fabric Barn which sells fabrics from the well-known names such as Villa Nova, Clarke & Clarke, Voyage, Crowson, Linwood plus many more. You will also find a good range of wadding, all types of lining on the roll, bump, interlining, fusible, heading tape, cord, sateen & blackout lining.

Sandford carpets have a huge selection of wool and manmade carpets, vinyl’s, laminates and hardwood flooring. They also have a fantastic collection of rugs on site.

At the rear of the showroom is a fabulous, massive refurbished warehouse where there are over 70 rolls of carpets that are displayed along with a large quantity of end rolls at very completive and affordable prices.

Let Sandford Carpets, Fabric Barn complete the new look that you are dreaming of!

They also sell Ulster, Axminster and Victoria carpets plus hard flooring such as:

GET THE RED CARPET TREATMENT AT SANDFORD CARPETS • Family Run Business celebrating 30 years in the business • Designer Fabrics from Voyage, Linwood, Clarke & Clarke, Prestigious, James Hare, Kobe, Blendworth, Jim Dickens • All linings now in stock • Massive carpet warehouse with roll stock comprising of over 90 rolls in stock • We pride ourselves on having very competitive prices • Deceptively large showroom bigger than it looks • Outstanding service • Extensive choice

OPENING HOURS: Tuesday - Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 4pm

SANDFORD CARPETS FABRIC BARN

128 Trysull Road, Bradmore, Wolverhampton WV3 7JF

01902 335599 15

We are hand painting specialists offering an affordable bespoke service, transforming old and new furniture, including fitted kitchens and fitted bedroom furniture.

Give a new lease of life to a piece of furniture and revitalise a favourite dresser, table or chairs.

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PAINT IT promises to deliver you an affordable piece of furniture that will be admired, desired and loved.

If you would like to arrange a FREE CONSULTATION please call Peta on 01952 670805 or email petacg@hotmail.com.

www.paintitfurniture.com

senior living

it’s a new dawn and a new day at sunrise of tettenhall blooming into a welcoming oasis for all to enjoy.

This is a place to start a new chapter, make new friends and discover a new purpose. We believe that every person deserves to live a life of fulfilment and self-worth, and we don’t think that moving into a care home should be an end, but rather a new beginning.

The arrival of Spring brings us warmer weather, longer days and plants blossoming from the slumber of winter. At Sunrise of Tettenhall, residents and team members are coming together and celebrating the delights afforded by this season of renewal.

This year, perhaps more so than any before, the welcoming of Spring means more than the seasons changing. The subsiding of COVID-19 and the easing of social distancing restrictions is creating a sense of measured anticipation across the country, and Sunrise of Tettenhall are marking this momentous moment with our #NewDawnNewDay campaign. This campaign is acting as a beacon to reveal the meaningful lives led by care home residents and encapsulate their dreams and ambitions for the months ahead.

At Sunrise of Tettenhall, our residents and team members have also been receiving their vaccinations against COVID-19 with pace as we cautiously look to emerge from the pandemic.

Rigorous infection control measures remain in place, and our team are well prepared to continue delivering industry-leading care to all of our residents. And, with up to two visitors now able to safely visit each of our residents, a new chapter is truly dawning at Sunrise of Tettenhall.

With birds flying high and the sun shining bright in the sky, our beautiful, landscaped gardens are

To find out more about the care home, please visit SunriseTettenhall.co.uk or call 01902 928277

It’s a new day at Sunrise As the days get longer and everything starts to feel a little brighter, thoughts naturally move to the future. So what better time to think about what happens next when it comes to your loved one’s care?

Over 93% of our residents and team members have received their vaccination.

We’re also offering 20% off respite care*, why not give us a try?

Call 01902 928277 or visit sunrise-care.co.uk/freshstart for more details.

Sunrise of Tettenhall 73 Wergs Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV6 9BN Residential, nursing and dementia care home *Terms and conditions apply. Please visit www.sunrise-care.co.uk/care-services/terms-and-conditions for more information

ADV_TET_0421_LifestyleMag_02.indd 1

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19/04/2021 17:19

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home

going for gold: why now’s a great time to cash in and sell your gold at auction sovereign we recently sold would be valued at around £285 scrap - however, due to it being an 1854 shield back example which is sought-after by collectors, it sold for £400 plus commission

A combination of strong gold prices and bidders actively looking for alternative investments in uncertain economic times means now could be a great time to sell gold items at auction. Dave Eglington, of Cuttlestones Auctioneers & Valuers, explains…

Back in 2016, we sold two gold broads of twenty shillings in the same auction – one, dated 1656 and hailing from the Cromwellian period, sold for £22,000 while the second, a Charles II 1662 example, fetched £11,000. In scrap weight terms, both of these coins would unlikely have been worth more than £500.

A sound investment During the pandemic, gold prices rocketed as mining and extraction shut down, with prices reaching a giddy $2,000 an ounce last August. While things are slowing down as vaccines and easing of lockdowns promise some return to normality and the stock market is starting to look elsewhere (gold had dipped just below $1,700 an ounce at the time of writing this article) from the results seen in our sale rooms, now is still a great time to cash in on your gold.

So, what’s your gold worth?

Why sell at auction?

With now being such a great time to sell we’re planning a special gold, coin and jewellery auction in summer 2021 and offering vendors the chance to sell through us for free (waiving the vendors’ commission we normally charge)

Most gold dealers and pawn brokers will only pay for gold items based on their scrap value – literally the price of their weight in gold. Auction houses, however, have a vested interest in achieving the best possibly price on behalf of their vendors, and will take into account an item’s intrinsic value. For example, a gold

To take advantage of this great offer simply make an appointment to bring your items along to one of our gold valuation days at our Penkridge saleroom on Thursday 17th or 24th June. To make your appointment call 01785 714905 or email valuations@cuttlestones. co.uk with ‘GOLD’ in the subject line.

Cash in your attic?

There’s never been a better time to sell at auction...

Sold for £1,300

Sold for £3,500

Sold for £220

Sold for £9,500

Sold for £1,000

Sold for £1,400

Sold for £450

Sold for £900

Sold for £1,200

Now taking consignments for our next sale: Antiques ~ Jewellery ~ Silver ~ Coins ~ Paintings - Ceramics ~ Collectibles ~ Toys ~ Vehicles and more...

For a free, no obligation valuation simply send photos to: valuations@cuttlestones.co.uk or WhatsApp: 07949 603872 Penkridge: 01785 714905

www.cutt l estones .co.uk Photos feature lots from previous Antique & Interiors sales. Please visit website for latest catalogues.

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Wolverhampton: 01902 421985

COMFORTABLE GARDEN LIVING Providing your space to work, train, rest and play, from design to installation

If you’re looking for something a little unique for your garden, or are looking for a way to extend your living space outdoors, a garden room offers the perfect solution.

We specialise in designing, making and installing a range of beautiful garden rooms and buildings, tailor-made for practically any outdoor space. We can tailor make your garden structure to your very own layout and design, making it totally unique.

EXPERIENCED DESIGNERS Our firm was born from a joinery construction design company, Enigma Fit Out, which has been pricing stunning interiors and exteriors since 2001. Our designer team, therefore, boasts the best of both worlds – decades of experience fused with an eye for the latest cutting-edge trends. We have a passion for bold yet practical design and believe that the garden should be a natural extension of your home.

RELIABLE AND ACCESSIBLE TEAM We’re based in Wolverhampton. You can find our online showroom, where you can view examples of our work and request to speak to a specialist about your requirements.

We design and make a variety of garden rooms and structures, and can customise yours in a number of ways. Choose fixtures, fittings and colour schemes that suit you – and add a whole new layer to your outdoor living space.

WHAT CAN BE INCLUDED IN A GARDEN ROOM? Our garden rooms have many possible functions – from an extra bedroom, playroom, office space or gym – we offer a totally bespoke service. When you order a garden room or building through us, we let you take control of the design. We will bring your ideas to life, but you get to choose interior and exterior materials, finishes, layouts, lighting, flooring and decorations.

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THE COMPTON FROM £10,000

Garden rooms are, on average, 50% cheaper than a home extension, and because so much of the work is done in the factory before being delivered for installation, there is less disruption to your family life too. Planning permission is often not required, but we can advise you at the consultation stage of all the requirements and apply to your local authority on your behalf, if needed, for a fixed fee.

COST COMPARISON The cost of a single storey extension is a min of £1850.00 PSM The cost of a loft conversion is a min of £1320.00 PSM The cost of a conservatory is a min of £1120.00 PSM Imperial Garden Structures Start at £924.00 PSM ECO FRIENDLY All timber used within your garden structure build is FSC certified & is sourced and supplied from sustainable forestry programmes.

EASY FINANCE OPTIONS Finance can be arranged with our finance partner Kandoo, please visit this link to see how getting an instant decision on finance can help you get your dream garden room.

THE CLAVERLEY FROM £15,245

To arrange a free design consultation with one of our experts at your home, where we can advise & discuss your unique requirements in finer detail.

ADDRESS Imperial Garden Structures Unit 20 Wulfrun Trading Estate, Stafford Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV10 6HH

CONTACT US 01384 280420 / 07957871646 sales@imperial-structures.com www.imperialgardenstructures.com

“A HOME IS BUILT FROM LAUGHTER AND GOOD COMPANY.”

Multi Site Lifestyle Magazine 245x336 (22.4).indd All Pages

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DISCOVER MCCARTHY STONE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS At McCarthy Stone, we pour our heart and soul into creating thoughtfully designed developments where communities flourish. Our collection of developments near you are no exception, with properties available to buy or rent.

If you would like to find out more about our age exclusive developments in and around the West Midlands area, join us at our Summer Showcase event.

It’s a great opportunity to find out more about our communities and how we can help you live life your way.

Our Summer Showcase event is taking place at the Mount Hotel, Mount Road, Tettenhall, WV6 8HL on Wednesday 9th June from 10.30am - 12.30pm or 2.00pm - 4.00pm.

To book your place, call 0800 153 3210

Thorneycroft, Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8PR

Brindley Gardens, Duck Lane, Codsall, South Staffordshire, WV8 1FL

• One and two bedroom apartments • Buy from £200,000#

• Two bedroom apartments • Buy from £240,450#

• Rent from £1,830# pcm

• Rent from £1,470# pcm

Clock Gardens, Stockwell Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 9PS

Algar Court, 231 Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV4 5UP

• One and two bedroom apartments • Buy from £245,500#

• Last 2 bedroom apartment at £239,950#

• Only two apartments available

• Rental price £1,450# pcm

Call 0800 153 3210 for more information or visit mccarthystone.co.uk #Subject to availability. Imagery is representative.

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103 Yew Tree Lane, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8UN Offers Over: £600,000 Situated in one of the most sought after locations in Tettenhall and enjoying a prime position, this generous plot has mature landscaped gardens providing a most picturesque setting with a number of high quality fittings throughout. Extended over the years to create an individually designed detached property providing extremely spacious and versatile living accommodation, a superb example of a family house.

Reception Porch * Entrance Hall * Downstairs Shower Room * Through Living Room * Sitting/ Dining Room * Inner Hall with Pantry & Utility * Breakfast Kitchen * Dining Room * Study * First Floor Galleried Landing * Superior Family Bathroom * Master Bedroom Suite with Walk in Wardrobe & Ensuite Shower Room * Three Further Bedrooms all with built in wardrobes * Mature Fully Stocked Enclosed Rear Garden * Remote Controlled Gated Driveway & Double Garage * No Upward Chain * EPC Rating D

1 THE ARCADE • HIGH STREET • TETTENHALL • WOLVERHAMPTON • WV6 8QS

Alston House, 18 High Street, Pattingham, Wolverhampton, WV6 7BQ Asking Price: £375,000 This individually designed detached 17th Century cottage has been extensively refurbished by the present owners to create a most impressive character home incorporating a number of modern features yet retaining the charm and appeal of a period property.

Situated in one of the most popular areas in Pattingham within easy walking distance of the Village centre and the amenities therein, the accommodation includes: Hardwood Front Door Leading to Living Room with ‘hole in the wall’ style gas fire & bespoke staircase to first floor with custom fitted bookcase below * Separate Dining Room with inglenook fire place * Open Plan Breakfast Kitchen with a smart matching suite of units and Bosch integrated appliances * Utility Room * First Galleried Landing * Three Bedrooms * Bathroom with modern white suite * Broadly Landscaped Rear Garden providing a most picturesque setting * Detached Garage at rear * Single Driveway at side * Harwood Double Glazing & Gas Central Heating * No Upward Chain * EPC Rating D

1 THE ARCADE • HIGH STREET • TETTENHALL • WOLVERHAMPTON • WV6 8QS

property

featured property

feature of the house is the 40ft open plan dining kitchen which comprises of a most spectacular cream suite with a number of high end integrated appliances and the family room includes a vaulted & beamed ceiling with bi-fold doors & French doors to rear garden. The ground floor has the valuable aspect of underfloor heating throughout and a useful utility off the kitchen.

A c-shaped staircase leads to the first floor landing where there are five double bedrooms and well-appointed family bathroom with a modern white suite. All the bedrooms include built in wardrobes and bedrooms two & three have luxury ensuite shower rooms. On the second floor is the master bedroom suite with has been fitted with a range of Hammonds furniture, separate dressing room and trendy ensuite. The second floor also consists of bedroom six which could be used for a multitude of purposes, i.e. home gym/ hobbies room etc.

46 MOUNT ROAD, TETTENHALL, WOLVERHAMPTON, WV6 8HW

PURCHASE PRICE: £925,000 Situated in one of the most sought after locations in Tettenhall and enjoying a prime position set well back from the road, screened via wrought iron gates & railings, this superior detached house was only constructed in 2017 by Parkes Homes to an exceptionally high standard of accommodation with a large variety of quality fittings throughout.

The gardens have been landscaped to the optimum effect creating a most enjoyable outlook with large paved patios, shaped lawns and flowering borders with the use of a timber summerhouse. There is also off road parking for several vehicles and an integrated garage.

Thoughtfully designed to provide extremely versatile and spacious living accommodation, 46 Mount Road is undoubtedly one of the finest examples of its type being a superb family home. The stunning interior includes porch to reception hall, fitted cloakroom, front living room with inglenook fireplace & wood burner, separate dining room and useful study. An outstanding

Convenient for the majority of amenities and within walking distance of local schools & shops, Mount Road is also in easy access of the city centre. Viewing is highly recommended to appreciate this exclusive family house!

Call: 01902 758111 Visit: www.thomasharvey.co.uk

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Call: 01902 758111 Visit: www.thomasharvey.co.uk

property

Call: 01902 758111 Visit: www.thomasharvey.co.uk

27

Call: 01902 758111 Visit: www.thomasharvey.co.uk

author

local author new dimension to the task of writing and marketing her books.

Lori Holmes is a local author whose debut series The Ancestors Saga has captured the imagination of readers around the world.

Lori’s target audience for The Ancestors Saga are New Adult readers (ages 17+), lovers of fantasy and SciFi, though Lori has had many readers speak of how fantasy isn’t their usual choice of book, but how they loved immersing themselves in The Ancestors Saga regardless.

The Ancestors Saga is set 40,000 years ago when the world is on the brink of another glacial period.

Many human species teeter on the brink of oblivion and the prize for the survivors will be the Earth itself.

The Ancestors Saga combines known pre-history with the unknown; where fantastical human species, as yet undiscovered by science, existed alongside our own forefathers. Ancient Sumerian myths and legends on human creation also play a part to bring this historical romance saga together.

Lori claims the best part of being an author is getting lost in her own world and not knowing where her characters will take her next. Probably a cliche answer from an author but very true!

Lori has received many wonderful reviews for her books and values them all. One of her favourites, however, came from a 91-year-old gentleman in Australia who told of how he had started reading fantasy in World War II when the American soldiers brought their fantasy novels with them while stationed in Australia and thus kick started his love for the genre. “To have feedback from such a connoisseur of fantasy novels was a real honour”.

Lori has been an avid reader of fantasy and SciFi since she was a little girl and started writing her own stories as a hobby when she was around 18 years old, but it wasn’t until 12 years ago that the idea for The Ancestors Saga came in a flash of inspiration. “First the idea for the two main characters was all that existed. The world had yet to be created. It was after reading articles on the latest historical findings on how different species of ancient human interbred that, like a lightning bolt, everything fell into place”. Lori clearly remembers sitting in her future husband’s car when this happened and knew then that she had something worth writing.

The series so far includes: Book 1: The Forbidden Book 2: Daughter of Ninmah Captive: a short companion novel to Book 2:

Lori wrote the first novel, which has now become the second book in the series Daughter of Ninmah, while working as a secretary at New Cross hospital, where she had been working for over ten years. Lori initially planned to publish traditionally by finding an agent for her work and approaching publishers but, before this could happen she stumbled upon a course for independent publishing and the rest, as they say, is history.

All these books are available exclusively on Amazon.

The third book in the saga, ‘Enemy Tribe’, is due for release on the 30th April 2021, with the fourth and concluding novel to the series, The Last Kamaali, due for release later on in the year. Production for audio versions of the books will begin following the release of The Last Kamaali (Book 4).

Finding professional editors and book cover artists, all aspects a publisher would ordinarily handle, in addition to learning how to successfully market the books, has proven very challenging, but Lori does not regret the decision to become an independent author.

The arrival of her twin sons last summer added a whole

28

education education

wolverhampton grammar school expands its provision provision to children aged 4-18. High-quality teaching, devoted staff, small class sizes and our caring ethos in the Junior School allow our young children the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.”

Wolverhampton Grammar School is proud to announce the expansion of its Junior School to incorporate Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 from September 2021.

This wonderful news means that Wolverhampton Grammar School will now become a true all-through school, providing the opportunity for children of all school ages (4-18) to join a truly unique community and experience our award-winning approach to education.

Wolverhampton Grammar School provides an outstanding education for children attending the Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form. Constantly achieving outstanding GCSE and A Level results, providing the largest range of extra-curricular activities of any independent school in the area, and continuing to be the independent school of choice for parents of children from across the Wolverhampton, Shropshire, Staffordshire and wider West Midlands.

The City’s leading Independent School recently received full approval from the Department for Education to increase the age range of the school, following a rigorous review of suitability by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. The new provision will benefit from remodelled classrooms featuring an inside-outside learning space as well as a purpose-built, beautifully landscaped Infant Playground within the School’s existing 25-acre campus.

Demand for places across all year groups is high and we encourage parents who wish to register their child for a place at our School to do so by visiting: www.wgs.org.uk, email our Admissions team: admissions@wgs-sch.net or telephone: 01902 422939 to avoid disappointment.

Dan Peters, Head of Wolverhampton Grammar Junior School commented “We are so excited that children will now be able to join us at the very start of their educational journey.

Opening our doors to children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 from September means that we can ensure our pupils make the very best progress from the word go.”

James Sage, Chairman of the Board of Directors for Wolverhampton Grammar School added “We are delighted to have been given the approval by the Department for Education to expand our education

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education

an activity-packed summer term at wrekin and old hall children to play some sport and share a hearty lunch afterwards.

The headteachers at a Shropshire educational trust have announced plans for an activity-packed summer term as restrictions are eased across the country.

Old Hall’s term will also include an expanded summer fete with special new attractions for the children together with the end of year celebrations for each year group.

Tim Firth of Wrekin College and Martin Stott of Old Hall School, in Wellington, said both schools had coped admirably with the disruption of the last year but they were looking forward to more normality returning and certain traditional events making a comeback.

Both schools will also make a return to welcoming visitors on-site for open events.

Old Hall School will welcome prospective families on May 8th with Wrekin College hosting its event on May 15th.

Sporting fixtures have been lined up, drama performances planned and celebration events added to the calendar for next term, all in line with Covid regulations.

Special activities will be planned during both sessions with families once again able to talk with staff and see facilities first hand.

The Government’s roadmap allows for the easing of lockdown restrictions with plans for them to be completely lifted from June 21.

The schools will both still observe social distancing and events will go ahead with Covid-19 safety measures in place.

Wrekin College is planning a cricket tournament after this date for schools across the region with over 100 children taking part.

Mr Firth said the excitement within the entire school community for a return to even more normality next term was palpable with staff working throughout the holidays to put key events in place.

The school is also in the final stages of rehearsals for an ambitious production of the Sound of Music.

Performances had to be put on hold last year but the music department is now hopeful audiences will be back this summer.

Meanwhile, Mr Stott said that, while they were delighted with the progress made during lockdown through online learning, the benefits of extra-curricular events at school could not be under-estimated and it was important to get those back in place as soon as it was allowed.

A final celebration event for the end of term is also on the calendar as the school looks to create lasting memories for its students, particularly its leavers.

Old Hall School is opening its doors for an assessment day for current Year 3 children in the local area who have had their first year of Key Stage 2 disrupted by Covid. On the day, the teaching staff will look at key skills in maths, English, reading, speaking & listening and non-verbal reasoning and feedback to parents.

The age-appropriate sessions will be sympathetically managed and there will be an opportunity for visiting

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PRE-SCHOO L, RECEPTIO N AN D KS1

DISCOVERY MO RN I N G Saturday 8th May 2021 10am - 12.30pm

Book your place and join the fun!

01952 223117 admissions@oldhall.co.uk www.oldhall.co.uk

Independent co-educational day school 4-11 Wellington, Shropshire TF1 3LB

FIND YOUR FUTURE AT

OPEN DAY Saturday 15th May 2021

Book your place: www.wrekincollege.com admissions@wrekincollege.com 01952 265603

Independent co-educational day and boarding school 11 - 18

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Wellington, Shropshire TF1 3BH

Registered Charity No. 528417

education

learning adventures at tettenhall college preparatory school Music and Science. This integrated approach to teaching and learning ensures the very highest standards of academic focus.

Successful learning is a happy adventure, full of challenge, excitement, endeavour and reward. The Preparatory School at Tettenhall College knows how important it is to create adventures every day for their youngest learners and offers a wonderful programme designed to stimulate and stretch young minds.

Prep children know they are part of a very special school. A school steeped in heritage and fundamental values, yet a place where technology and innovation has allowed a full programme of learning to be delivered without interruption, despite the recent challenges. Being a registered charity also ensures that the focus at Tettenhall is all about education. A commitment to making the school accessible to as many deserving children as possible is underpinned by a generous and ongoing bursary scheme.

Nestled within the beautiful woodland grounds of Tettenhall College, the Preparatory School is very much a part of the whole school, a place of learning for children from the ages of 2 to 18. Whilst the Prep School itself has fantastic facilities including Art and Computer Suites, Forest School and multiple outdoor play areas, being part of the overall College allows Prep pupils access to all the facilities on site. These include a heated indoor swimming pool, the beautiful College library, a magnificent Victorian theatre, outstanding boarding facilities, a fully equipped sports hall and squash courts and acres of high grade sports pitches. Being integrated with a high achieving and vibrant Senior School, allows the younger pupils the chance to participate in experiences that they would not otherwise have.

A limited number of places remain for entry in September 2021. You are warmly encouraged to contact the College Admissions Office for an informal first conversation and to arrange your personal tour of the school. Contact admissions@tettcoll.co.uk or call 01902 751 119.

The academic programme combines a traditional approach to nurturing a strong and solid knowledge of the fundamental building blocks, with a forward thinking range of learning opportunities. Through the innovative Enrichment Programme, pupils have the opportunity to study areas often reserved for their much older counterparts, trying philosophy, engineering, Mandarin or debating for example.

Most fundamentally, being part of the wider school allows the Prep pupils to have teaching time with our subject specialist senior teachers in French, Spanish,

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Personal tours are now available to see our wonderful teaching facilities, staff and grounds. Visit our classrooms, specialist art and computing suites and indoor swimming pool. Step into the beautiful College library and the magnificent Victorian theatre.

Bring your walking shoes and explore our ancient woodland, home to the fantastic Forest School or our vast lower pitches and superb Pavilion.

Places available for September

Contact admissions@tettcoll.co.uk to book your visit now.

Tettenhall College Preparatory School, Wood Road, Wolverhampton, WV6 8QX

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recipes

scallops and beetroot

RECIPES BY MIKE WHITEHURST

I love scallops pan fried with a little garlic butter but smoking them slightly just add’s another level of flavour to the dish. Try this at home for your next dinner party or hire takefood to come make it for you.

Also great for a wedding breakfast.

USEFUL INFO Cooking time: 30 minutes Serves 6

Oven temp: 170˚c Preparation time: 15 minutes INGREDIENTS • • • • • •

• • • •

12 native scallops 3 strips of butchers smoked streaky bacon 1 large beetroot roasted until soft 1 purple cauliflower or white Dill fronds Mustard frills

Cracked black pepper 100g of good quality black pudding Cold pressed rapeseed oil 3 walnuts cracked open

METHOD - read through first then measure out all of your ingredients before starting •

Put an old pan on the stove and add in some oak chips or tea leaves and place a sieve over the top. Once it starts to smoke place the scallops and roe in then place a piece of kitchen foil over the top and allow to smoked for 3 minutes.

•

Smoke the scallops for about 3 minutes then separate the bright orange roe from the scallops, remove the sinew and put the roe in a blender with softened butter and blitz until smooth. Keep in the fridge until required.

To serve sandwich between 2 crisp slices of brioche and garnish with dill. You can serve this as “smoked coral brioche toast” canapés or serve it as part of the dish.

•

Blow torch and finish in a hot oven for a few minutes or pan fry the scallops to brown and cook through in the pan with butter and garlic.

•

Lay the bacon out on a tray and cook in the oven until crisp and then break into small shards.

•

Cook the black pudding and crumble into small bits.

•

Puree the cooked beetroot with a little rapeseed oil. Cut small florets from the cauliflower and toss in a little oil and sea salt then roast until al dente.

•

To serve spread a little beetroot puree on the plate then place the scallops and bacon in the centre. Garnish with black pudding, cauliflower, herbs and mustard leaves, crush a walnut half around the plate and drizzle with rapeseed oil.

SERVING SUGGESTION Serve with a cold white wine or a light red wine if you prefer.

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butternut squash tagliatelle

RECIPE BY MICHELLE ROUND

Butternut squash is an expensive ingredient, so let it be the star of your dish, no meat required!

USEFUL INFO Oven temp: 200˚c Serves 4 (Big portions!)

Really good value at around £1.20 per portion

INGREDIENTS • • • • • •

1 Large Butternut Squash 8 Tagliatelle nests 50g Margarine Rapeseed Oil Medium Onion Fresh Lemon

• • •

Sage Leaves Parmesan Fresh Spinach

METHOD - read through first then measure out all of your ingredients before starting • • • • • • • • • • •

Pre-heat the oven to 200 degrees Peel, de-seed and dice butternut squash, thinly slice onions.

In a deep-frying pan slowly heat butter and oil, add the squash and onion.

Gently fry for 5 minutes and transfer to the oven.

Roast until squash is tender.

Fill a large saucepan with water and bring to a rapid boil.

Cook the tagliatelle until al dente.

Remove the squash from the oven and return to the stove, cooking on a low heat.

Add two ladles of pasta water and the juice of the lemon.

Slowly cook until the butter has formed a thick, glossy sauce.

Michelle Round Strain the pasta and return to the deep saucepan, cook on the lowest heat Level 5 Advanced Diploma in until all remaining water has evaporated.

Diet and Nutrition • Season and add to the squash mixture.

Level 3 Professional Cookery Level 3 Food Safety • Add the sage and spinach to the pan and thoroughly combine all Level 2 HACCP ingredients.

Mround84@outlook.com • Turn off the heat and leave to rest for 5 minutes.

07534682589 • Place the pan in the middle of the table and dig in.

Facebook: mroundnutrition SERVING SUGGESTION Instagram: mroundnutrition Finish with grated parmesan and lemon zest on the top.

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puzzle

crossword

ACROSS:

1 Apparel (5) 4 Viscera (5) 7 Capital of Azerbaijan (4) 8 Engrossed (8) 9 Church songbook (7) 10 Hidden store (5) 12 Fine cigar (6) 14 Windcheater (6) 16 Shrink (5) 18 Version (7) 21 Clubman (8) 22 Hairy man of Genesis (4) 23 Ardent male lover (5) 24 Cowboy display (5)

DOWN:

1 Jordan’s end (4,3) 2 Peer (5) 3 Astronaut (8) 4 Expel (4) 5 Motley assortment (7) 6 Bloodsucking worm (5) 11 Horticulturalist (8) 13 Praise vociferously (7) 15 Pear-shaped fruit (7) 17 Scrub (5) 19 Cornered (5) 20 2.2 pounds approximately (4)

ANSWERS FOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 Across: 1 Mexico, 5 Tip-off, 8 Beta, 9 Employer, 10 Parcels, 11 Opus, 13 Beast of burden, 16 Shut, 17 Admiral, 20 Sunshade, 21 Evil, 22 Canyon, 23 Taller.

Down: 2 Elevate, 3 Isaac, 4 Overlook, 5 Type, 6 Prosper, 7 Feeds, 12 Obedient, 14 Squishy, 15 Examine, 16 Sauna, 18 Ideal, 19 Vain.

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O P E N

1 7 / 0 5 / 2 1

FIXED MENU £9 .95 T H U R S D AY & S U N D AY N I G H T S

38 Bridgnorth Road, Compton WV6 8AE

BOOKINGS 01902 927 147

hair & beauty

nick & royston Face-Framing Fringes

The post-lockdown haircut is the ultimate 2021 beauty move, offering a hard reset after a year of overgrown bobs, faded colours, ponytails and loungewear. The fastest, most dramatic, youthifying change comes with a fringe and whether blunt and brow-grazing or light and layered, there’s bound to be one that appeals to you and complements your face shape.

At Royston Blythe, we’re big fans of wide-cut fringes to really expose cheekbones as well as those choppier, more relaxed cut variations that are easier to manage at home.

We love a tousled texture, brow-skimming fringe teamed with a subtle ombre colour for a summer signature statement style.

Invisible Layers

Layers are back and you can rest assured that they have come such a long way: gone are the days when your stylist cut in layers to add a bit of body or make hair seem thicker. This season is all about invisible layers that are cut around the face, or throughout the lengths of longer hair to encourage that oh-so-desirable bouncy movement that we’re all craving as we enjoy the luxury of being back in the chair of our favourite hairdresser.

Invisible Layers are a way of tapering or thinning out the ends, so when the hair falls on top of another piece of hair (in a layer), it falls almost invisibly, removing visibility of the ‘layered line’.

An invisible layer is also perfect for clients with fine hair if they are after that summery, floaty, Parisian look.

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hair & beauty

Statement Blondes

Lightening and brightening is the key to maximising your hair potential during summer months particularly and this season is all about subtle & sun-kissed tousled hues! Regardless of if you are dreaming of ravishing golden locks, clean platinum or a subtle honey blonde, you need to find a tone to suit your complexion and personality ! One of our favourite techniques for 2021 is Blonde Foilayage: this is the ultimate blonde balayage effect and creates cleaner, cooler blonde highlights that still have a relaxed sun-kissed feel. Choose to have more of the foilayage around your face so you gain maximum impact and transformation. It’s important to remember that the perfect seamless blonde needs you to commit to regular visits to the salon for toners as well as investing in a prescribed home care plan.

Beautiful Brondes

Brondes are taking the forefront for those who are reluctant to commit to being brunette or blonde.

Bronde is the colour technique that fuses brown and blonde to create a flattering, sun-kissed hair colour result…..if you still need some convincing, head over to the Insta account of Queen Of Brondes Jennifer Lopez for some inspiration!

Brondes give added depth and dimension to blondes, and lift and illuminate brown hair.

Think coppers and honeys that sit in the middle, warming up all hair colour palettes with a rich and youthful appeal. Brondes are fabulously flattering to the complexion and will work on just about all hair colours and types.

39

travel

sandals resorts – the perfect holiday for two people in love 1. Sandals Resorts was one of the first resorts to welcome back guests This means they have not only developed all their new Covid Protocols but these are now tried and tested. I’ve had guests staying at Sandals resorts since October 2020 and all the feedback has been positive with guests reporting ‘feeling very safe’ but also having a wonderful holiday experience.

2. They’ve been flexible and fair Gilly Bachelor, Personal Travel Consultant and Certified Sandals Specialist The first Sandals opened in 1981, now there are 15 five star resorts located throughout the Caribbean in Jamaica, The Bahamas, Grenada, Barbados, Antigua and Saint Lucia. Sandals remains a family owned and run business to this day.

Sandals has waived its standard amendment fees. This means, for clients that have decided not to travel this year, I’ve been able to move their bookings (with their deposits) to 2022, and also to capture any current offers at the time. This approach has given my clients genuine flexibility and peace of mind.

3. Their current offers are incredible!

For over a decade, Sandals has earned every resort award and accolade in the travel industry, placing it leagues above any other all-inclusive resort. But the greatest accolade of all is the huge number of returning guests, and it’s certainly a popular choice for my clients!

These have included huge savings on accommodation, discount codes and pricematching in to 2023! Get in touch to find out the latest ones.

Prices start from £1499pp for 7 nights, including flights and transfers.

Ten Reasons why I’m recommending Sandals to you...

4. Green, Amber or Red?

Sandal’s ultra-all-inclusive offer has always been a great one, but before I get to that I wanted to share four new reasons for booking a Sandals holiday…

Our Government is set to introduce a new travel Traffic Light System when the travel ban is lifted, and it’s widely anticipated that most, if not all Caribbean Islands will be Green. This would mean

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travel

that you will not have to quarantine on your return to the UK.

instruction provided.

Plus, golf, beach volleyball, basketball, pool, tennis and a fitness centre with state-of-the-art equipment.

And here’s why the ultra-all-inclusive is so good!

5. The range and quality of accommodation is fabulous

8. There’s lots going on, but also space to relax…

Each resort has a vast array of entertainment, but some resorts are livelier than others, however, with my expertise I’ll be able to guide you to your perfect choice.

There is a huge range of room types for every budget – from beach front suites to luxury hideaways with a private pool. You can choose a Luxury, Club or Butler room but whichever grade you choose you’ll get to enjoy the ultra-all-inclusive. When we speak, I will be able to recommend the perfect resort and room for you.

9. There’s no unexpected costs…

You can enjoy a luxury holiday without worrying about any unexpected costs as Wi-Fi, transfers, tips, taxes and gratuities are all included.

6. The food and drink quality and choice is wonderful

10. And a little something extra from me

Each resort has an array of 5-star gourmet dining options for breakfast, lunch, dinner and anytime snacks. You’ll also enjoy unlimited premium drinks, and a complimentary minibar in your room.

If you book your Sandals holiday with me by the end of May 2021 (for travel in to 2023) you’ll enjoy something a little extra from complimentary airport lounge passes to a romantic candlelit beach dinner for two.

7. The included range of land and water sports will keep you (very) busy

Get in touch to choose your perfect Sandals holiday call 07970102161 or email gilly.bachelor@ notjusttravel.com. I have a dedicated office facility in Brewood if you’d like to book a face-to-face appointment.

These include PADI-Certified scuba diving, Snorkelling trips, Hobie Cats, paddle boards, kayaks - all with equipment and professional

41

weddings

let your garden inspire your wedding flowers…

A great way to understand flowers and decide what you like whilst appreciating the fragrance each flower has, is by taking a walk around your garden, family members garden or plan a visit to many of the open gardens and National Trust gardens in our local area. Take pictures and share them with your wedding florist. Many flowers are available in plant and cut flower forms, which creates a beautiful cottage garden styled wedding theme.

My favourites to share with you…

When it comes to planning your wedding, it’s a great idea to collate all your ideas in one safe place.

Pinterest is great for this. You can create different boards for each section of your wedding. You can save directly into each board and you also have the option to make your boards private so no-one can see your ideas. Otherwise screenshots saved to your wedding album on your phone or tablet is good. When you have your appointments with your wedding supplier, share as many images as possible with them, as it makes them more aware of your likes and also your dislikes. Personally, I just love a scrapbook…. A book of sticky notes, sample fabrics, stationery proofs and cut outs of magazines totally inspires me.

If you decide that you are enlisting the help of a wedding planner, they will take you through the steps and will even design your mood boards and bring your ideas to life.

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weddings

FLOWERS FOR YOUR WEDDING Its lovely to see more and more couples carefully planning and selecting flowers to grow in their garden and family members garden to incorporate within your wedding flower selection and also in some instances, use only home garden flowers throughout without the need of using commercially flowers.

Ask your wedding florist about including your grown flowers within your selection.

We offer a wide array of Classic Cars and Split Screen VW Camper Buses for Weddings and Special Occasions.

Please contact us for a quote Tel: 01902 453465, 07772 189397 Email: greyhoundclassiccars@gmail.com Bilston Road, Wolverhampton WV2 2HU www.greyhoundclassiccarhire.co.uk

weddings Be inspired with whats around you…

A lot of us have been waiting for Summer flowers to arrive to admire the glorious colours and to inspire us.

The beauty of Summer flowers is that it expresses itself in so many different colour variables. There are so many shades of one colour that can make a gentle stroll around where you live so special and with its amazing colours look like a painters palette. Subtle colour changes consume the intense sunlight to allow flowers to truly showcase their true beauty. As the day light hours extend and temperatures reach their highest, just take the time to watch the incredible world of nature and flowers that surrounds us all.

I personally adore large deep borders in eyecatching blues, purples and lilacs. By planting your tallest flowers at the back and staggering the heights allows your flowers to have their own space to show their true beauty.

Whether your preference with your planting of your flowers in block colours for impact or you choose to mix the colours throughout, all flowers look equally amazing and create an explosion of colour.

Plan visits to open residential gardens in your area and National Trust gardens. Its great to pick up ideas and tips from the gardener. These creative gardeners that design show stopping gardens at scheduled days throughout the year, open their garden to the public. After a stroll around their garden take the opportunity to chat to the proud owners, relax with tea and home made cakes. Many gardeners sell cuttings off their plants displayed in the gardens, again, with a small contribution which again will be paid to their nominated charity. I have picked up many cuttings off gardeners on open days. It is exciting to see the plant that the cutting has been taken from. It allows me to see the height and span my cutting could grow to. The gardener always shares with me helpful hints on how to look after it, which is a great advantage.

About Flower School at The Flower Shop, Codsall (Birches Bridge)

We have a great time sharing our knowledge and experience with you and we know you will all have a fun time too. We schedule various classes throughout the year and the Christmas classes are not to be missed! In between our classes we host enrichment days, charity & fundraising classes along with private corporate events.

Our classes are held in the workroom of our shop in Codsall, flower classes give you a real chance to experience all aspects of being a real florist.

All our flowers and sundries are the same high standard that we use within our shop. All materials and flowers for each class are provided and included with the price. Your arrangements made are yours to take home at the end of the class.

MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY FRESH ARRANGEMENTS You create 2 arrangements using fresh flowers and incorporating modern floristry sundries allowing you to create beautiful arrangements, with a difference!

Each workshop will last approx 2 hours. Upcoming workshop dates are listed online at www.theflowershoponline. co.uk.

All classes are held at our shop. (Free parking available is available outside the shop).

Louise Rose

“Beautiful flowers, always”

1

Normally the May/June Fashion Edit would be full on glamour, gorgeous wedding outfits with stunning hats, The Summer Ball, gorgeous gowns & sky scraper heels, but for 2021, I think its going to be more BBQ’s & fabulous garden parties, so baring that in mind I have chosen some glorious pieces which are easily accessible online. From gorgeous earthy tones to soft Summer pastels plus blasts of citrus shades, lets get inspired!

AMBER SUNSET

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zara.com/uk anthropologie.com mango.co.uk mango.co.uk

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zara.co.uk zara.co.uk michaelkors.co.uk zara.com/uk

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Just because we’re not going out out! Doesn’t mean we can’t wear something special in our friends gardens, I fell in love with this silk blended maxi from Zara, it’s fabulous warm shade, add loads of beads & definitely look at wearing a turban or beautiful hair band. Anthropologie is a fabulous website, I found so many things I would love to add to my Summer wardrobe, check out Mango for earthy tones & fabulous accessories plus Michael Kors super fun sling pack.

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fashion

LONG SUMMER DAYS

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9. zara.co.uk 10. massimodutti.com 11. neverfullydressed.co.uk 12. mango.co.uk 13. boho-betty.com 14. mango.co.uk 15. anthropologie.com 16. memeandem.com

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I love the softness of this page, everything is floaty & cool ready for long summer days & evenings, look out for soft pastel broderie, shirring plus feminine sleeve details, how fabulous is the lobster print blouse from Anthropologie, perfect with denim or some soft floaty trousers, the floral separates from Never Fully Dressed create the elusion of a fabulous jumpsuit, so wear together for full impact or on their own with pastel accessories, I found Boho-Betty jewellery when I was shopping for my nieces birthday, it’s a gorgeous website.

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fashion

GARDEN PARTY

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17. anthropologie.com 18. onehundredstars.co.uk 19. mango.com 20. onehundredstars.com 21. mango.com 22. marksandspencer.com 23. neverfullydressed.co.uk 24. zara.co.uk 25. michaelkors.co.uk

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This page has a real zing! I bought a kimono last year from One Hundred Stars, they have created beautiful prints in different length kimono’s & scarves, look on the website for local stockists. The 2 in 1 dress from Zara is great, wear separately for lunch or over your swimsuit, but also wear together to create a multi layered dress add a mule & turban for full on glamour! This season dresses are different lengths & easy shapes to suit all of us.

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fashion

SUMMER BRIEFING

28

27 26

29

30 31 32

26. michaelkors.co.uk 27. anthopologie.com 28. massimodutti.com 29. katespade.com 30. dunelondon.com 31. memeandem.com 32. memeandem.com 33. stories.com

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Crop tops & bralettes are a massive trend if you are the right age & I have chosen a couple of very pretty ones from Stories & Michael Kors, add the reversible cardigan from ME&EM for when the sun goes in!

Check out Anthropologie website for dresses by Jyotoi Ronika, gorgeous boho styles & prints, add the beaded flat forms from Dune & strings of beads.

I look forward to seeing you all out & about very soon! Happy Shopping!

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horoscopes

PISCES

VIRGO

(February 19 - March 20)

(August 22 - September 21)

Perhaps it’s time to build an empire as working and business things seem well expected. It’s time to knuckle down and fulfil some of those long felt ambitions, you’re in the driving seat so take control.

Give yourself space and time to consider your current position, it may be a good thing to think about a professional change and use your talents and skills in a more constructive way, you are a very able person and now need to reap the rewards of your labours.

ARIES

LIBRA

(March 21 - April 20)

(September 21 - October 22)

What a good time to bite the biscuit and hold on to any bits of information that you have recently received, this kind of intelligence could create wisdom in the future, knowledge is wisdom and wisdom leads to power.

It’s lovely to see you stepping out of the darkness into the light and getting recognition for your past efforts, do not allow yourself to be put at the centre of other peoples problems, blaze your own trail and you won’t go far wrong.

TAURUS

SCORPIO

(April 21 - May 20)

(October 23 - November 22)

You are now entering the numbers game and it is important to do plenty of research before you make crucial decisions. It is a great time to consider your future options and act upon your gut feelings.

As the moon becomes protenant in your sign expect to be abundant with energy and probably dancing around like a spring chicken. A windfall of cash could make a wonderful time ahead.

GEMINI

SAGITTARIUS

(May 21 - June 20)

(November 23 - December 20)

Try not to paper over the cracks as far as the truth is concerned, your candid opinion of others should prove to clear the air of a past difficulty, facing the music now will earn you the respect of everyone.

Love is well and truly in the air as the planet Venus flirts with the perimeter of your chart. A Long lasting relationship could be destined to be made now as your future becomes set on a more positive road.

CANCER

CAPRICORN

(June 21 - July 21)

(December 21 - January 19)

Though many around you may seem to be on the take keeping a cool head as far as your financial affairs are concerned will win the day for you. Keep your eyes on the bank statements and your hands in your pockets.

Try not to get caught up in the world of paperwork and officialdom, keeping life simple now could save a lot of aggravation later, everything needs to be shipshape and Bristol fashion.

LEO

AQUARIUS

(July 22 - August 21)

(January 20 - February 18)

A romantic encounter may change the way you think and make a lasting impression upon your life, cupid is at last looking in your direction and that super spark of love should be arriving shortly.

You will probably drift your way through life like a feather in the breeze, this means that you should not be worried or concerned about anything, you are one step away from easy street.

Competition WIN an overnight stay for 2 with afternoon tea and a ½ hour treatment each QUESTION What Brand and products do Achill House spa use?

To enter email your answer along with your contact details to: info@lifestylemag.org.uk We are a family run business situated 100 meters from the historic village of Knowle easy walking distance from several unique restaurants, shops and public houses which means you can choose a different cuisine for every night of your stay.

Ideally situated if your visiting the NEC or Birmingham airport.

Stratford Warwick and Birmingham are also close by.

We are delighted to be awarded a 9.4 rating and hotels.com this year. As well as offering a full breakfast menu and we also offer Tea coffee cakes and sandwiches. Afternoon Tea & smorgasbords.

At our luxury Heaven spa we offer the Royals Facial - Bee sting facial, an alternative to a natural face lift. a Bee peel and a vegan nettle sting facial. Indulge in a serenity of a relaxing hot stone massage, let the music carry you away, even pop your feet up with a glass of fizz while having a mani and pedi leaving you walking on cloud 9. We offer waxing, tinting and lash lift getting you head to toe ready for what 2021.

Achill House Spa, Achill House, 35 Hampton Road Knowle, Solihull, B93 ONR 01564 774090 | achillspa.com | achill5@aol.com @achillspa Competition Terms & Conditions Lifestyle Magazine competition rules apply see below for details. * There is no cash alternative to the prize. The competition is free to enter. Entrants must supply their contact details and in doing so agree that Lifestyle Magazine can use them for their own marketing purposes. Details supplied by entrants will not be passed on to any third party. All applications will be entered into a prize draw and the winner will be selected at random by the prize supplier. Winners will be notified by telephone and/or e-mail by the 25th June 2021. Entry will assume acceptance of these terms and conditions. Details of the winner available on request by writing to: Lifestyle Magazine Limited, Dominique House 1 Church Road, Netherton. DY2 0LY.

51

health

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At Parkdale Dental & Implant Clinic we offer quality patient-focused dental care in a modern and supportive environment.

Our satisfied patients have found a renewed confidence after undergoing treatment with us and it is our privilege to find a solution to many problems traditional dentistry has failed to remedy.

Come and meet Jon Dr Jon Pugh | Principal Dentist BDS (Birm) 1987, MSc Implant Dentistry, GDC No. 62663

parkdaledentalandimplantclinic.co.uk 82 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV1 4TF

health

nervous patients welcome Are your fears and anxieties preventing you from seeking regular dental care? Is your dental health suffering as a result?

Here at Wightwick Dental Practice we are fully aware of these fears and we can use several techniques to make you feel more relaxed.

One of our favourite techniques is inhalation sedation or ‘gas and air’ as you might know it. You will breathe the gases in through your nose. This will very quickly produce a pleasant, relaxed feeling. You may feel a little drowsy but you will be conscious throughout. Your dentist will also make you feel more relaxed by talking you through this. Once your treatment is complete, the effects of the gases are very quickly reversed and you can even drive home afterwards. Another major benefit of this form of sedation is that because you are conscious and aware of what is going on, you can start to rationalise your fears. We usually find that most patients within a few sessions are willing to undergo simple treatments without any sedation at all.

So if your fears are putting you off taking care of your teeth pick up the phone and give us a call to see how we can help you on your way.

The practice is purpose built, modern and boasts the latest in dental technology enabling us to provide you with a modern dental experience.

Our aim is to provide private, affordable, up to date, high quality treatments for our patients in a relaxed, comfortable yet professional environment.

Accepting new patients now!

Call 01902 763200 to register

01902 763200 wightwickdentalpractice.co.uk 301 Bridgnorth Road Wightwick Wolverhampton WV6 8BW

56

health

digital detox Throughout the past year, many of us have spent more time at home. Working remotely, shopping online, keeping in touch remotely, all resulting in increased use of technology but also resulting in many of us moving less and experiencing new symptoms of back, neck and shoulder pain.

For many, it is difficult at the moment to imagine not using technology, but maybe you feel you spend too much time on Instagram and Facebook? Maybe you just want to cut back your usage? The British Chiropractic Association advises that being smart when using technology can ease some of the physical side effects that can occur.

Technology has become integral to our lives but when it comes to bedtime it is having negative repercussions on our lifestyles and bodies. When people use laptops or mobile phones in bed, they tend to forget their posture, hunch over the screen and leave their spine unsupported which can damage posture and cause back or neck pain.

The BCA is urging people to make a start by making their bedrooms tech-free zones and see what benefits can come from this.

•

Check your emails before bed then switch off your laptop or mobile phone and leave in another room.

•

Avoid having a television in your bedroom,

•

Forget the mobile phone dock, use an alarm clock:

•

If you do use tech in bed avoid looking down at screens when your neck won’t be supported and the weight of your head leaning forward will put pressure on your back and neck. Make sure your back is supported with a pillow and the device is propped up so it’s at eye level.

If you have neck, back or shoulder pain, consult you BCA and GCC registered Chiropractor at Tettenhall Road Chiropractic Clinic.

The light given off by screens also stimulates the brain making us feel more awake, reducing sleep and leaving bodies less rested.

TETTENHALL ROAD

CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC WOLVERHAMPTON

Chiropractors treat common muscle and joint problems including: • Lower Back Pain • Neck & Shoulder Pain /RZ %DFN 3DLQ • Cervicogenic Headache • Frozen Shoulder 1HFN DQG 6KRXOGHU 3DLQ • Tennis Elbow &HUYLFRJHQLF +HDGDFKH • Hip & Knee Pain )UR]HQ 6KRXOGHU

est.

7HQQLV (OERZ Clinic 1982 GCC Registered and BCA Members +LS DQG .QHH 3DLQ

01902 772 446 www.wolveschiro.co.uk

84 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV1 4TF

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Flint and Partners are excited to become the sole area stockist for FACE A Face eyewear. Born and designed in Paris, FACE A Face has become a unique and contemporary reference in eyewear. Always audacious and Avant-Garde, with a mastery of colours and dramatic shapes. Inspired by modern art and architecture, to be unique and full of personality.

If you’re looking to be dramatically different or for wearable glasses chic, pop in and see our new collection

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Tel: 09102 422096 Tel: 01902 719855 Tel: 01902 719850 Tel: 01902 422096

health <RXU +HDOWK

get your feet fit for summer The perfect sterile pedicure with some foot therapy We all love to be pampered, whether it’s for a special occasion or just a feel good treat.

It’s that time of year again where the weather is gettingofwarmer andpopular we wantforms to slipofour feet into a One the most pampering nice pair of sandals. However, after being locked into is a pedicure. There’s no better feeling than those winter boots, your feet are dry and rough and having your feet look and feel good and here in need of a new lease of life. Now is the time to treat at Foot Therapy, that’s our aim. your feet.

Nearly everything Foot Therapy use is used only on you (apart from the cuticle pusher and cuticle nipper which are sterilised above 130 degrees Celsius to kill any germs). We use disposable nail brushes and a small separate dish for base and top coat to avoid contaminating the bottle.

Lookingfrom for the a place to go?Chiropody, Don’t worry.

That’s Aside 30 minute we also where Foot Therapy comes into action.

We offer provide a service called the Steri-Pedi (shorta whole range of treatments whether for sterile pedicure) which gives it’s all having the joythe of full a chiropody with to geta rid that unwanted pedicure fewofadded extras. hard skin or a

We also let you take the mini nail varnish home so it is not used on anyone else and it’s perfect for the odd touch up.

simple pedicure to get your toes looking perfect. We have HPC Registered podiatrist to sort any ailments As a medical practice it’s important to us that and qualified beauticians who use the latest and the we avoid any risk to our patients, such as best products just for you, whether it be shellac or a the spread of infection. This can happen by simple nail varnish that you get to take home with you.

What makes a Foot Therapy Steri-Pedi stand out: • No cross contamination

using polish that has previously been used So what are you your best foot on someone withwaiting fungalfor? nail.PutThere is also Foot Therapy aforward risk ofwith damaging the nail plates if you go for with someone who has had Call austreatment on 01902 214022 inadequate training.

60

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Your feet look and feel great

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You get to take the nail polish file and buffer home!

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health

treetops leading the way in modern dentistry Treetops Dental Surgery in Codsall is leading the way with modern dentistry. We have always known it to be fact that good dental hygiene is important to the health of your teeth and gums, but thanks to the rise in ‘celebrity’ cosmetic dentistry and the importance of teeth looking beautiful, cosmetic treatments have become more popular than ever before.

The safety, effectiveness and low cost of treatments such as tooth whitening, cosmetic braces and implant’s has encouraged a number of patients to our practice, where these treatments can be carried out.

Treetops impressive range of treatments includes Orthodontics and Implants with patient finance available.

Orthodontic treatment is a way of straightening teeth, to improve the appearance and how they work. It can also help to look after the long-term health of the teeth, gums and jaw joints, by spreading the biting pressure over all the teeth.

Treetop’s Orthodontic service is supplied by Dr Vis Pather, who has been fully qualified for over 15 years and has improved hundreds of smiles.

Hello!

We offer a fantastic alternative to traditional braces in the form of ‘Invisalign’, a clear brace system which has transformed millions of people’s lives worldwide.

treetopsdentalsurgery.co.uk treetopsdentalsurgery.co.uk

01902 555 01902 842 842 555 52 DuckLane, Lane, Codsall 52 Duck Codsall Wolverhampton Wolverhampton WV8 1HF WV8 1HF

Contact the Treetops team today on reception@treetopsdentalsurgery.co.uk or call them 01902 842555

61

pets & garden

heading towards summer with a happy hop are high in fibre, antioxidants and a good source of minerals as well as vitamins.

Summer is almost upon us once again so it’s an ideal time to give your beloved bunny a health check to ensure that they are happy and healthy.

At this time of year Flystrike can be a problem for rabbits, many flies are harmless but some, such as the bluebottle will lay their eggs on poor bunnies’ fur.

When the eggs hatch the maggots begin to eat the rabbit’s flesh and sadly this can cause shock and death in a very short amount of time. Flies are particularly attracted to soiled or damp fur around bunny’s bottom so it’s good practice to check your rabbit daily throughout the year anyway, but especially in the warmer weather to ensure that they are clean and healthy. Pay particular attention to their behind, keep this area well groomed, clean and dry which will help minimise the risk of Flystrike and ensure that any issues are dealt with immediately. Should you notice any problems, ensure that you contact your Veterinary Surgeon as soon as possible.

Rabbits actually don’t cope well in hot weather and can overheat and get sunstroke if exposed to direct sunlight for too long. It’s important to keep a careful eye on them particularly on very hot summer days. Always ensure that there is plenty of shade for your little friend and if it gets too hot outside bring them indoors. You could also give your rabbit some fresh vegetable treats to help hydrate them, celery in particular can help keep the little soul hydrated, chop the vegetables in to chunks and only feed small amounts as treats. If you really want to spoil your furry friend, you can give them a tasty piece of strawberry to enjoy, don’t do this too often though as he or she will get a poorly tummy.

Rabbits love company so why not spend some time in your garden with your little friend. While they are safely in their run munching on some lovely grass, you could plan out a little vegetable patch and herb garden so that you and your rabbit can enjoy some lovely fresh home-grown treats. Basil, parsley and oregano for example are all lovely tasty treats for a bunny and are also great to add to your own food. Rabbits absolutely love Dandelions too, they can eat the leaves as well as the flower, these along with twigs can be mixed into the rabbit’s hay and be hidden to make his or her life more interesting. In the wild rabbits would forage for a large percentage of their time. Something for bunny to safely chew on would also be a good source of amusement as well as playing a valuable role in helping to keep their teeth growth under control.

Dandelions also have a lot of health benefits as they

It’s a good idea to get an annual check-up with the Vet to ensure that your bunny is heading towards summer with a happy hop!

Important always check that your garden plants are non-toxic for rabbits and that vegetables and herbs given to them are clean and not sprayed with chemicals. Do not feed your rabbit lawn mower grass cuttings. If you are ever concerned about your pet always consult your veterinarian.

Libby Williams MHAO AHdip Animal Healer & Holistic Therapist www.libbywilliams.co.uk info@libbywilliams.co.uk 07966 639671

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No painting or repairs for 25 years?

It must be a COLOURFENCE!

Guaranteed not to warp, crack, shrink, rot or peel!

With the warmer weather arriving, there's always plenty to do in the garden. However, with ColourFence, one of the most tedious, time consuming jobs disappears overnight. Not just for 2021 but for the next 25 years! That's because there's no need to paint or repair ColourFence. It's guaranteed not to warp, crack, shrink, rot or peel for the next 25 years. Making it one of the world's best maintenance-free fences. And, unlike other fences, ColourFence can withstand wind speeds of up to 130mph.

There's a choice of colours to harmonise and enhance your garden's design. You'll find our prices surprisingly competitive too. To see the full product range, call us today and find out why it makes sense to choose ColourFence. †

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Cream

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pets & garden

time to get gardening splash of colour, along with the hardy Geraniums and the coloured leaves of the Heuchera. Don’t forget the traditional Delphiniums and Foxgloves which always give a good show.

There’s plenty to plant out and do in the vegetable plot at the moment. Plant smaller quantities little and often to keep a steady supply of veg for the kitchen. Most garden centres sell packs of vegetable plants so it’s easy to plant out a few every fortnight as well as sowing seeds of radish, spring onions and basil.

Summer bedding can be planted outside from the end of May onwards, so long as we aren’t getting any late frosts. Antirrhinums, Asters and Lobelia first, leaving Marigolds, Begonias, Impatiens and Geraniums until the beginning of June if necessary. Water well to get established, then, feed fortnightly and dead head regularly. Look out for the new Impatiens Beacon which is Downy Mildew resistant, supplies will be limited, but if you do see them give them a go, trial results have been good so far.

Cover fruit bushes with netting to stop the birds picking your fruit before you do. Spray fruit trees before flowers open and after fruit has set to keep bugs under control. Provado Fruit and Veg Bug Killer is a good insecticide, but unfortunately fungicides for edible crops have been removed from the market. Keep bushes watered where possible if it’s dry to discourage mildews. Make sure that you clear up any diseased foliage when seen.

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

Tomato, Cucumber and Pepper plants should not be planted outside until the end of May and inside need some heat at night if temperatures are dropping low.

As the weather improves the grass will start growing and need cutting. Do a light cut first, gradually reducing the mower height over several cuts. There’s plenty of moss in lawns again this year and MO Bacter organic moss treatment is the ideal product to use against it. It can be applied to your lawn any time from March through to September, it contains an organic fertilizer that releases over a 3 month period which digests the moss, greens the lawn and improves the soil. It leaves no unsightly black patches and scarifying is not necessary. An added bonus is that if you accidently get in on your borders it won’t harm the plants in them.

Watch out for slug damage on young herbaceous plants, and summer bedding such as Marigolds.

Use slug pellets or one of the natural controls that are available. ‘Slug Gone’ is a relatively new product that is made from sheep’s wool, it’s sold in pellet form which you put round the base of plants and once dampened its small fibres act as an irritant to slugs.

Many herbaceous plants flower in their first year and there’s always a good selection available on our outdoor tables. The first batch of West Country Lupins should be ready now with their many vibrant colours they make a delightful

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We’ve got everything you need to make your garden beautiful!

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pets & garden GARDEN SERVICES

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LANDSCAPING TREE FELLING, PRUNING, SHAPING, FENCING, DRIVEWAYS, SLABBING, TURFING, STUMP REMOVAL, HEDGE TRIMMING, REDUCTION WORK. LAWN MOWING, EDGING & BORDERS Regular Garden Maintenance Weekly, Fortnightly & Monthly

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business

why bother with lasting power of attorney? to support people making these crucial, complex and difficult decisions. “According to Which?

22,000 LPAs are rejected every year so it’s essential that you get your legal documents right” say’s Solicitor and Head of Wills and Probate at Thornes, Alison Westwood.

Kate Garraway’s heart-breaking story of her husband Derek’s year-long battle with Covid has been made even more complicated by the lack of legal protection she and Derek had in place.

Kate was unable to access funds to manage her husband’s care or refinance her mortgage. She didn’t even have the legal right to see his medical notes, owing to data protection.

The friendly, professional team at Thornes is here to help. Alison is accredited

by SFE (Solicitors for the Elderly), the membership organisation for specialist solicitors who support older and vulnerable people. To talk to Alison or a member of her team for an informal, no obligation chat please call us on 01902 313311.

Research by SFE, shows that 65% of us think our next-of-kin will make medical and care decisions for us if we are no longer able to. In reality, this isn’t the case unless a Health & Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney is in place. Whilst there’s been a rise in the number of enquiries made about Lasting Power of Attorneys (LPAs) during the pandemic, only 22% of people in the UK actually have one.

To avoid this difficult kind of legal situation it’s important to use a specialist lawyer who is experienced in this area of the law, and is trained

Alison Westwood Solicitor & Head of Wills and Probate

YOUR LOCAL SOLICITORS FOR ALMOST 150 YEARS Wills, Probate, Tax and Trusts, Powers of Attorney Residential & Commercial Conveyancing Divorce, Separation & Finances Children and Family Disputes Children taken into care

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www.thornessolicitors.co.uk | 01902 313 311 Lich Gates, Wolverhampton, WV1 1UA

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finance

is now the time to think about becoming an ethical investors?

• Companies operating in an ethical way now have an improved outlook given the direction of regulatory change and consumer behaviour.

None of us can have escaped the headline about climate change and all aspects of our lives are now under the microscope when it comes to global warming.

• Investing in companies which consider the impact on society may actually improve their longterm performance, as their products and services are now in greater demand.

However, the perception of many investors is this.

“If I invest ethically, I will have to accept lower investment returns”.

Over the last 5 years, as ethical investing has gained in popularity, the view that returns will and have been lower is anything but the truth. In fact, ethical investments more recently have performed better than non-ethical investments.

2. The Perception is that it is riskier.

Investors often think that ethical investments are more exposed to risk or are less diversified and are at greater risk than mainstream shares.

Evidence has show this to be untrue.

If like many investors you are starting to think about changing your investment strategy to ethical investing, what do you need to know?

1. The perception is that performance is lower.

Ethical investments are often well diversified, plus the fact that the impact on stakeholders over the long term, is now actually leading to companies choosing less risky business activities.

Investors believe that investment returns are lower. There is now more than enough historical evidence to show that there is no evidence that an ethical portfolio have underperformed. There are several reasons why this has not been the case.

The reasons are as follows.

Companies that operate on an ethical basis, now consider their social impact to actively reduce their risk over the short, medium, and long term.

We only need to look at the automotive sector to see how the move to ethical and sustainable transportation is defining the sector.

• A large proportion of investment performance is determined by your asset allocation.

3. The perception is that it is too expensive.

Investors often believe that ethical funds are more expensive compared to mainstream investments.

This is partially true, but not as much as you may think.

• Ethical investments exclude sectors such as oil and gas, which follow the economic cycle.

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finance

Compared to a traditional investment portfolio, ethical portfolios fund management fees are slightly higher. However there is significant downward pressure on fees which we expect to continue.

of investment as well as consumer demand. It is expected to increase exponentially as financial adviser and investors become more aware that they can invest in ethical investments and still make profits. We can only see ethical investing continuing to increase.

4. The Perception is that it makes no difference.

Ethical investing is a growing market and is continuing to see more and more investors wanting their money invested in this way. As an investor, there is no reason not to consider ethical investing now that it is becoming increasingly mainstream.

Ethical investing is evolving rapidly and has historically been about avoiding companies that were considered to be operating is a socially unacceptable way. This is changing and investors are now looking to put their money where they can have a positive social impact and well as increasing their wealth.

Ethical investing is an increasing area of financial planning and it is advisable to seek specific financial advice from an independent financial adviser before making any decisions to invest.

This is great news for the planet, and companies that do not make these changes are likely to suffer over the medium and long term. Companies that embrace the impact that they have on the planet are more likely to thrive and are also more likely to reduce the potential for legal and regulatory costs, not to mention it will almost certainly improve a company’s public brand.

As with any investment, there is no guarantee that the target return will be achieved, and investors may get back less than the amount they invested.

Past performance and forecasts are not a reliable indicator of future performance. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and is subject to change.

5. The Perception is that it is a niche market.

In the UK, there is already many 100’s of billions invested in ethical investments across many different funds, which are increasing all of the time. Every year more and more investor money is being directed towards ethical investments due to the wider acceptance of the validity of this type

Martin Dodd is an Independent Financial Adviser providing financial advice in the Wolverhampton area. Midlands Investment Agency is based in Tettenhall High Street. Contact him on 01902 742221.

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T E T T E N H A L L

YOUR BRAND

is YOUR IDENTITY

display it proudly Call 01902 744 544 | www.thestudiogroup.co.uk

Based in Tettenhall, Emer Morris LLB (Hons) is the director of Evergreen Wills Ltd and has provided a Will Writing service in the area for over 15 years. Emer is a member of the Institute of Professional Will Writers and has many satisfied clients and families in Wolverhampton, Dudley and the surrounding areas.

What are the benefits of having a will in place:

Services include: • • • • • • • •

Will Writing Lasting Powers of Attorney Probate Property Protection Probate Asset Protection Trusts Funeral Planning Will storage Court of Protection

• • • •

•

Why Choose Evergreen Wills Ltd? There are no forms to fill in, Emer listens to your needs and gives advise based on individual circumstances.

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As a small firm Emer is able to provide a confidential, friendly, professional and personal bespoke service to you, taking time to discuss your needs and wishes as an individual within your own home, or by video call offering helpful advice.

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Offering a Free Initial Consultation and Fixed Fees.

So that you choose who deals with your estate.

So that your estate goes to the person/charity of your choice in the way that you want.

So that you can name the guardians of children under the age of 18.

To ensure that you protect the value of your property and savings from avoidable payment of inheritance tax or care fees.

To provide for mentally or physically disabled beneficiaries without affecting their income-related benefits.

To provide extra benefits over and above statutory powers for minor beneficiaries.

To provide for beneficiaries in a vulnerable position i.e. facing divorce or bankruptcy.

To provide for children from a previous marriage.

To provide for unmarried partners.

Contact info@evergreenwills.co.uk 01902 921611 www.evergreenwills.co.uk

Single Wills £130 Mirrored Wills £200

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business

business interruption insurance claims One way or another, businesses have suffered as a result of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic and the associated lockdown to protect public health. This has meant that many businesses, particularly those operating in non-essential retail and hospitality have been forced to close their door to customers in some cases for over a year, causing them to make little to no turnover.

anyway.

Many businesses have turned to their insurers for support in these difficult times to find that support lacking, and the majority of businesses alarmed to find that their insurance did not cover for pandemics.

• MS Amlin Underwriting Ltd

The judgment is legally binding on the following insurers: • Arch Insurance (UK) Ltd • Argenta Syndicate Management Ltd • Ecclesiastical Insurance Office Plc • Hiscox Insurance Company Ltd • QBE UK Ltd

What is business interruption insurance?

• Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Plc

Business interruption insurance covers loss resulting from interruption of or interference with the normal operation of your business carried out at your premises,.

What should you do if you think you need to make a claim?

• Zurich Insurance Plc

1. Review your business insurance policies for coverage

Successful Business Interruption Insurance - Test Case

2. Notify your insurer(s) promptly You may have more than one policy which offers cover.

The Financial Conduct Authority (‘FCA’) has recognised that the various lockdowns have caused loss and distress to businesses, particularly small and medium sized businesses.

3. Gather evidence of your losses, profit and loss accounts, balance sheets other financial documents showing a disruption to your business turnover/profits.

The FCA applied to the High Court for clarification over the contractual uncertainty around the validity of many business interruption insurance claims. This was appealed to the Supreme Court who handed down their judgment on the appeal on the 15th January 2021.

4. Give credit for any government grants/loans to your business including furlough for staff, reduction cost of stock, rate relief etc.

5. Set out increased working costs e.g. alternative accommodation, PPE, hand sanitiser, overtime costs etc. In some cases accountancy costs might be coverable.

The Court considered the interpretation of common clauses in 13 out of 21 business interruption insurance policies and also whether prevalence of Covid-19 in or around a business was an effective ‘cause’ of a loss.

6. If cover is declined then reply with a letter of complaint setting out why you believe under your policy there should be cover for your business interruption.

The court decided that cover may be available where: • premises have been partially closed as well as full closure

At Kenneth Jones Solicitors, we can check your policy to determine whether you qualify for a claim on your business interruption insurance. If your business was partially or fully adversely affected by the pandemic, please contact Kenneth Jones Solicitors on 01902 745 773 or email us at tettenhall@kenneth-jones.co.uk.

• mandatory closure orders are in place but are not legally binding The court also took the view that the value of claims should not be reduced on the basis that the business would have been adversely affected by the pandemic

Residential / Commercial Conveyancing • Landlord & Tenant Personal Injury Clinical Negligence Wills, Trusts and Probate Family Law • Immigration Law

Tel: 01902 745773

Email: ajaz@kenneth-jones.co.uk • Website: www.kenneth-jones.co.uk 72

motoring

clean up with hiq wolverhampton cleans vital components by injecting hydrogen into the air intake. This returns the engine to its original condition, reduces harmful emissions by up to 50%, and improves fuel consumption by as much as 15%. The process takes between 45 minutes to 2 hours and the results last up to 12 months.

HiQ Wolverhampton has launched a new Hydrocarbon Engine Descaling service that could save West Midlands motorists thousands of pounds. If the engine warning symbol lights up on your dashboard or your car feels sluggish and underpowered, there’s a 75% chance that carbon build-up is the cause. Burning carbon-based fuels like petrol and diesel creates soot, which builds up over time, clogging vital components. This not only impairs performance but can also cause irreparable damage, leading to costly repairs.

Replacing a particulate filter typically costs £1,500, an EGR Valve around £350, while a new Turbocharger could set you back £2,000 or more.

Hydrocarbon Engine Descaling protects these vital components, maximising their performance and service life.

Special Introductory offer Hydrocarbon Engine Descaling may be new to HiQ, but the technology we use is tried, tested and proven. Over 1 million de-scaling services have been successfully carried out since our partner, FlexFuel, introduced the service in 2014. As a special introductory offer, we’re offering 15% off all Hydrocarbon Engine Descaling services carried out in April/May 2021. To find out more, call HiQ Wolverhampton on 01902 420 234. We’re always happy to help.

What is Hydrocarbon Engine Descaling?

Hydrocarbon Engine Descaling removes unburnt hydrocarbon deposits from your engine and deep-

73

motoring

jeep renegade The Renegade is much smaller than anything produced in the past by Jeep and is entering in to the extremely popular small SUV market, writes Bob Hickman.

either braking or slowing down, it is however necessary to connect the three pin charger cable to the mains to properly re-charge fully the battery.

This is a vehicle that has the classic Jeep look, the circular headlights and the slotted grille leaves you in no doubt whatsoever that this is a Jeep.

The Renegade itself drives reasonably well, it had responsive steering and agility and sure-footedness in corner and bends, it is difficult not to feel that the vehicle quirky looks are ones that will grow on you and certainly the Renegade stands out from a lot of its other competitors. Certainly driving in pure electric mode was rewarding, and the seamless change to petrol has to be experienced to understand the transition.

It has a boxy shape and this translates to a huge amount of interior space with excellent headroom, especially in the rear of the vehicle. I particularly like the wide opening doors which make life easy for parents fitting child’s seats and also those who are a little less able are able to gain access and egress to the vehicle without too many problems.

I like the factor that the Renegade had a good turning circle which made manoeuvring in and out of car spaces much easier. Add in a raised driving position and you have the qualities needed to actually be a serious competitor in the small SUV market.

Jeep has taken the step of building and utilising the wonderful large Fiat 500X platform for the vehicle and this translates in to a vehicle that is sure footed and dependant on which engine derivative you choose, it can be either be a 2-wheel drive or a 4x4 option.

Without doubt the Jeep Renegade looks the part, the temptation to buy something that is different, quirky and has the well known name of Jeep on the front could be a mission.

My particular test vehicle was the Hybrid Trailhawk version, this coupled a 1.3 litre 180 bhp turbo engine to a 59 bhp electric motor giving a very commendable 240 bhp, the electric motor drives the rear wheels whilst the petrol engine drives the front wheels. It utilises a 6 speed automatic gear box. A top speed of 124mph and a 0 - 62 is claimed to be in the vicinity of 7 seconds. The all important CO figures was 51g/km. The combined fuel consumption is given as 134.5 mpg but at times a lowly 35mpg in petrol mode only was showing on the computer.

Prices for the particular top specification 4 xe Phev Hybrid Trailhawk vehicle that I had on test was a hefty £39,200, a more basic non Hybrid model Renegade start at £23150.

The driver can choose driving modes betwixt Auto, Sport, Snow and Sand/Mud, in addition there are further choices in selecting the Hybrid mode, “Hybrid” uses both power sources, “Electric” gives up to 26 miles and I found this to be spot on, Choose “E save” and utilise the petrol engine to conserve battery power, The system does allow for regeneration charge when

74

motoring

toyota yaris hybrid Toyota with the Yaris have introduced yet another Hybrid to their arsenal of vehicles, writes Bob Hickman.

wonderful map or Google map system to be able to navigate so it wasn’t detrimental.

It has an exterior sporty look and addition to the sporty looks it has phenomenal fuel economy and for once it is one of those cars that drives as well as it looks.

The sound system was good, the DAB radio held its position at all times and all the instrumentation was very clear and easy to understand. All the Yaris do come complete with a DAB radio, Blue Tooth and USB socket if you need to charge the phone. Obviously upgrading the trim increases the sound system and it also in addition will bring in a satellite navigation system.

The hybrid system is an engineering delight, it can run on power from either the petrol or the electric motor but this Yaris can run on electric power only and this marks the differential between a full hybrid and the mild ones.

Out on the road the vehicle was a pleasant companion, on county roads it was surprisingly good and agile, the engine doesn’t get too noisy when pushed and the CVT automatic gearbox was always seeming to know where exactly we should be at any given time.

During my time with the vehicle it was noticeable that more often than not and especially in and around town the car was determined to drive on electric power only and this is why the fuel consumption figures are so good and in fact during my week with the vehicle I was averaging in excess 55mpg.

Toyota suggests that a top speed of 109mph should be possible and a 0-60 gallop in 9.7 seconds, they are quoting a fuel consumption figure of 65.6mpg but my mid 50’s I still find to be quite acceptable. One of the important features that we need to know is the CO2 emissions and they are quoted at 98.

I like the dashboard facility that tells you instantly with a little green EV icon that you are running in green electric power. Whilst I concede the Yaris is a small city car the interior space isn’t overly generous in comparison to other car designs especially the Honda Jazz. The driving position I found to be good and with a widely adjustable seat and steering wheel. The space in the rear is average and tall adults will struggle for knee room. The Yaris boot is smallish but adequate for the size of the vehicle.

My particular test car on the road was priced at £24,005 and Toyota’s do come with a commendable warranty of 5 years or 100,000 miles and servicing is suggested at 10,000 miles or annually whichever comes sooner.

There is one engine option for the vehicle and this is petrol, a hybrid 1.5-litre 3-cylinder with an electric motor fed by a small battery, this produces 116bhp.

Interior layout is fit and flush, a pleasant companion, the controls for the air conditioning are within easy reach and for once they are proper devices that need to be pushed and turned and not fiddle. I was surprised to find on my particular test car that satellite navigation was not included although a reversing camera was, I must admit I would have preferred the sat nav, having said that connect your i-phone or android and you have a

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