The temperature has dropped and the countdown to Christmas has begun!
This issue is packed with something for everyone, from warming Christmas recipes, to Christmas gift ideas for treating the ones we love.
This is our last edition for 2022, we would like to thank all our readers and advertisers for your support in 2022 and wish all of you a very Happy Christmas and Healthy and Prosperous New Year. Let 2023 be the year of living your dreams…....
We always welcome input from our readers and advertisers, so if you have a story or event that you think would make interesting reading then please get in touch and tell us about it.
Home 2 - 19
Health 20 - 27
Hair & Beauty 28 - 31
Fashion 32 - 37
Weddings 38 - 41
Education 42 - 46
Travel 47 - 49
Food & Drink 50 - 51
Leisure 52 - 53 Gardens 54 - 55
Christmas 56 - 57
Horoscopes 58
Crosswords 59
Classified 60 - 61
Our Lifestyle are looking for more people to hand deliver our magazine 6 times a year through letterboxes in the local areas of Halesowen, Kidderminster, Hagley, Pedmore & surrounding areas in Stourbridge.
you are interested please give Linda a call on 07841 431446.
Motoring 62 - 63
Funerals 64
Finance & Legal 65 - 67
Farren
Director
431446
linda@ourlifestylemag.co.uk
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We live in an age where saving energy, reducing our carbon footprint and lowering our energy bills are all of prime importance. Chapmans can help by advising you of the best appliances to buy to save energy helping you understand the energy label on a product.
It is also important to know how much electricity you’re already using in your home and what changes you can make, a few examples are:
• Request a smart meter and in-home display to track your electricity usage
• Buy energy saving lightbulbs
• Turn appliances off standby
Energy saving light bulbs last up to 10 times longer than traditional bulbs, and use around 80% less energy. A 13-18w energy-saving light bulb produces the same amount of light as traditional 60w bulbs. This reduces energy costs and saves you up to £60 over the lifetime of the light bulb. Chapmans can offer advice on the best lighting and light bulbs for your situation as well as supplying the actual bulb. When it comes to washing a 30 degree wash
can save 38% on your electricity use compared to a 40 degree wash. If you are using a tumble dryer you can save energy by choosing a fast spin in your washing machine to reduce the amount of drying time in your tumble dryer.
Chapmans can also help with your heating by installing a smart thermostat which allows you to control your heating from your mobile device this allows you to turn your heating off when you are not at home or in cold weather if the day turns out warmer than expected.
Solar PV electricity generation is still one of the most cost effective ways of providing Green Energy to your home. Now with cost effective battery storage it can offer even more. The energy created feeds into your existing electrical system and helps to power your home plus many other money and earth saving benefits, such as running hot water storage.
Chapmans have PV solar energy skilled engineers ready to repair, maintain or install new systems. Many years of experience and technical knowhow gives their customers the best possible service.
View
View the latest Neff built-in products at our official Neff Centre in Cradley Heath
View the latest Neff built-in products at our official Neff Centre in Cradley Heath
fitting and installation service
out by our
View the latest Neff built-in products at our official Neff Centre in Cradley Heath. Full range of Neff products also
- experts in
Full fitting and installation service carried out by our own engineers.
View the latest Neff built-in products at our official Neff Centre in Cradley Heath
for nearly
fitting and installation service carried out by our own
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in
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for
Chapmans
Bromsgrove
fitting and installation service carried out by our own engineers.
Bromsgrove
Bromsgrove
In keeping with the popular natural country farmhouse interior decor, decorate this Christmas with white, black, navy, natural wood tones, and other neutrals which can all look just as effective and festive as more traditional Christmas colour’s.
The best Christmas decor is the kind that matches your existing home colour scheme. You don't have to go all out on red and green if that's not your normal year-round aesthetic.
Nature inspired Christmas décor including natural materials like pinecones, flowers and dried fruit. A woodland theme opens the door for decorations depicting many of nature’s creatures, including woodland mice, deer, birds and other forest animals.
Woodland animals, are dressed with cosy knit jumpers and holding presents & snowballs are so popular for decoration and add so much fun and personality to your Christmas tree décor, it bring’s your tree to life.
LED lights seem to get smaller every year and this makes it possible to add in garlands, wreaths or even trees with strings of led lights already fitted, so there’s less faffing and plugging in. Gorgeous Led light up stars look beautiful on a fire place mantle and the warm glow of led lights makes the room feel so cozy and welcoming. It’s certainly not Christmas without adding lots of string lighting ambience around the home!
Flocked, fake and fabulous Christmas tree’s are trending this season.
You may be wondering What is a flocked tree? They are artificial Christmas trees that have been dusted or flocked with a generous amount of fake snow.
To decorate a flocked tree can be as simple or as lavish as you like. You can just leave it natural and just let the flocking do the talking or you can use the wintery fake snow as a neutral background to offset your colourful ornaments.
Last year I was lucky enough to attend a fabulous Christmas door wreath making class and I certainly see this as becoming growing trend of DIY decor and getting creative and making your own Christmas displays back by popular demand for 2022. Look out for your local floristry shop for Christmas wreath workshops.
With the nights drawing in, it’s a great time to get to grips with learning a new craft and planning to make your own decorations you’ve always liked the look of, from crochet, lino cutting to macramé. I would of course recommended making your own door wreath and decorations as it so rewarding to do.
Paper décor is set to be one of the biggest
trends for 2022, It ticks all the boxes fun, eco friendly, and easy to make! Choose honeycomb shaped trees, hearts, baubles in colourful rich emeralds and burgundy shades. It’s been a key trend for all year seasons and seem to be even more popular for Christmas holiday décor.
Frosted glass ornaments and minty colours play perfectly with the winter theme. They look great with traditional pine greens or decorating a frosted or flocked Christmas tree.
It's really all about the candles this year! Beautiful tapered candles in candlesticks are set to be a key part of the 2022 Christmas table scape.
It’s a great way to support small businesses by sourcing original designs. I love some more of the quirky designs on the market in two tone colours, twisted shaped and embellished candles to add a pop of colour to Christmas
tables.
I hope you enjoyed my Christmas decoration suggestions. If you have an interior project you need advising on, help with styling your home ready for Christmas please get in touch with Jennifer via the contact details below.
Also all Christmas products imagery are available to order direct to your home. Please contact Jennifer on 07977330011 or email Jennifer@jennifersuzanne.co.uk for more information on pricing and sizing.
@jennifersuzanneinteriors Website: www.jennifersuzanne.co.uk Instagram: jennifersuzanneinteriors Email: Jennifer@jennifersuzanne.co.uk Telephone: 07977 330011
As the days get colder and the nights get darker, being comfy and cosy at home is what we all want to be. Snuggled up on the sofa with a festive film, or reading a good book. And here at Park Lane Furnishings, creating that perfect sofa for you, is what we do.
Since 2011 we have gained a strong reputation for high quality service and impeccable workmanship, all at an affordable price. Every sofa is made bespoke for you, in any size or fabric you desire. Not only that, but we are proud to be a British Manufacturer, with everything made here in the West Midlands.
And it’s not just sofas. Chairs, headboards and coffee tables can all be made to your specification. We have a large range of fabrics
in all styles, colours and textures and can even offer stain resistant options.
Visitors to our showroom can be inspired by our interior designed room sets with many different sofa styles on show, and can also take time browsing fabrics in our newly refurbished design studio.
Why not pop down for a browse, explore our ranges and be inspired. Even better that if you order within the next few weeks, you would have your brand new sofa in time for Christmas!
Park Lane Furnishings, Park Lane, Halesowen, West Midlands B63 2RA T: 01384 918371
As the weather gets colder and we’re all thinking about our rocketing energy bills, we’re taking a leaf out of our own book at Mez Design UK and creating a garden room to work from and spend quality time with the family, in amongst nature.
This is how the business started way back in 2001, creating a workspace for my wife to balance her growing business and young children and here we are again 21 years later, doing it in our new house.
Best of all, it’ll soon be Christmas and with a large family, space is always at a premium, so it’s likely that a few of the younger ones may well be camping out in it. And of course, when the house gets just a bit too noisy, the adults will also be heading out for their own peaceful adventure.
We’re locating the garden room in a small, wooded area which forms part of our garden. Well, you’d expect nothing less from a carpenter who has spent over 35 years developing his passion for wood!
The garden rooms are so thermally efficient, we’ll use significantly less energy than heating the whole house,
You can follow our progress on social media on our Facebook and Instagram pages @medesignuk where we’ll tell the story of how a Mez Design Garden Room is created
And if you want to see more of our bespoke garden room projects visit our new website www.mezdesignuk.com. You can even take a 360 tour of our largest one including a gym, sauna and bar. Call Paul on 078121 66665. Paul@mezdesignuk.com
The warm days of summer may be a distant memory as we head into winter and the festive period, but there’s no better time to give your ears a Winter MOT.
Why miss out the sound of carol singers, the laughter shared with the family on Christmas Day or just the simple crackle of logs on the fire. At Hear in Hagley, Hear in Wombourne and Hear in Rubery we are passionate and dedicated to bringing every day, simple sounds back to life.
Quite often it’s the clarity of speech that we lose first and this can start in our 50’s. However, it can take many years for hearing loss to develop. We may start to accuse people of mumbling, stuggle to hear in background noise or blame the quality of some tv programs when in fact its our own ears that the problem. If things are ‘loud enough but not clear’ it might be time to have a check of your hearing.
We offer FREE hearing assessments so if you know someone that may not be hearing so well perhaps it’s time for a visit to your local ‘Hear in’ clinic.
It might just be ear wax and the great news is that this is easily fixed. If it’s a hearing solution you need, we can advise you on the very latest technology. With interest free finance you can even spread the cost and our 60-day money back guarantee allows plenty of time to try your hearing aids out in the situations you’ve been missing out on so there’s nothing to lose
We are a family run independent hearing care business and are proud to be able to offer the very latest in hearing aid technology, the best
and most professional ear wax removal service and also that important time for you to talk to us about your individual listening needs over a cup of coffee.
Why not let Jo and the team at Hear in Hagley, Sophie and the team at Hear in Wombourne or Marie at Hear in Rubery see if they can help?
Let us help you enjoy the sound of the Festive period and every season. Enjoy the simple sounds that can make a big difference!
Contact us on today on;
HAGlEY/RUBERY ClINIC
WomBoURNE ClINIC
www.lifestylehearingsolutions.co.uk
Having suffered with anxiety in the past, working in high pressure sales roles, whilst managing the demands of two young children. I understand how stress can impact every aspect of our lives, leading to weight gain, panic attacks, insomnia and negative self-talk.
As a solution focused hypnotherapist, I help people to make significant, positive changes in their lives in a short period of time. I help my clients focus on what they want to achieve rather than on their problems. Sometimes clients feel a certain way, but they don’t know the reason why, or they don’t want to talk about why they feel the way they do.
HPD, DSFH, MNCH (Reg.) AfSFH (Reg.), MHS (Reg.)
I work with clients with anxiety, depression, weight management, phobias, sleep problems, confidence issues, imposter syndrome and many other areas. I help my clients to identify and work with their inner skills and resources, to help them to realise their potential and ability to make positive changes.
I offer a free initial consultation if you would like to find out more about how hypnotherapy could help you, please get in touch. Appointments are available at my clinic in Bromsgrove and I also offer online appointments, if preferred.
F
Face to Face Appointments at my office: 9-11 New Road, Bromsgrove B60 2JF
Or Online appointments available if preferred
Hirsutism is when women have thick, dark hair on their face, neck, chest, tummy, lower back, buttocks or thighs. It would be advisable to consult your GP as this could signal a medical issue that may be treatable.
An increase in hormones called androgens causes Hirsutism. And if your body is sensitive to the increased hormones, you may develop symptoms.
The most common cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a condition affecting the ovaries that can cause symptoms such as acne and irregular periods. Sometimes there's no apparent cause, except for the excessive hair. Still, it needs investigation by your doctor because it can potentially cause fertility issues.
Rarely can Hirsutism be caused by:
• Medicines, prescribed and not.
• Anabolic steroids.
• CBD oil.
• Hormonal conditions like Cushing's syndrome and Acromegaly.
• A tumour.
Excessive hair should always be investigated.
tReatmentS FoR HiRSutiSm
Your GP may suggest:
• Losing weight – to help control hormone levels.
• Eflornithine cream to slow hair growth.
• Contraceptive pill to help control
lisa Evans Reid Clinical Director at Reflect
hormone levels.
The two effective treatments are:
•
•
Electrolysis – To help remove white facial hair.
Laser hair removal - To manage excess hair growth.
Research the treatments and book a consultation with a reputable clinic, such as Reflect. Because having an experienced laser technician who fully understands the implications of Hirsutism is vital for long-term management.
If you have lighter, more delicate hair on your face or body, it's probably not Hirsutism. It's vellus hair, fluffy and downy in texture and is entirely natural. However, some women have more than others, and it may be an issue on a cosmetic level. Vellus is more common as we age, particularly after menopause. Solutions such as Dermaplaning or electrolysis can help.
Folliculitis is a common skin infection that develops in the hair follicles. And can appear anywhere on the skin, except for our palms and soles.
An outbreak can look similar to acne; overthe-counter treatments may irritate and lead to ingrown hairs. Therefore seek professional advice.
You get folliculitis when you damage your hair follicles. Once damaged, it's easy for germs to get inside the follicles and cause an infection.Also called pseudofolliculitis or razor bumps, men often see these on the beard area when they shave; it's the bikinis line with women.
You can damage your hair follicles by rubbing your skin, wearing tight clothing, shaving and skin chafing. When your skin is damp and hot, it's easier to damage your hair follicles and get infected.
•
When shaving, plucking, or waxing causes the infection, you'll want to stop doing these things for 30 days. Use a clean razor and clean the skin before shaving.
Once folliculitis is under control it can be treated with laser to remove ingrown hairs and the hairs causing issue.
The Gables Care Home in Hagley, Worcestershire is welcoming their very first residents this Autumn transforming a site that has been many months in development into a state-of-the-art care home oozing warmth, hospitality and exceptional care.
The Gables provides residential and respite care alongside support for people living with dementia offering a real ‘home from home’ experience. The people living and working at The Gables enjoy exceptional facilities with a chance to be involved in a variety of social activities which mirror their interests and hobbies. In addition, the home’s very own minibus is available for trips out to local shops and places of interest. There is the opportunity to watch a nostalgic movie in the cinema, be pampered in the hair and beauty salon or simply to relax in a variety of comfortable lounges or the café bar. Each bedroom is comfortable, light and spacious with a walk-in shower room and thoughtfully furnished with older people in mind. There are also a limited number of care suites each with an en-suite bedroom and separate lounge with compact kitchenette – ideal for couples, or singles
looking for extra space and independence.
As well as residential care and the opportunity for short stays, The Gables has a community dedicated to the care of people living with dementia – the single aim is to build on people’s abilities and life experience to help them live active and fulfilled lives.
The Gables is one of the latest ‘jewels in the crown’ for Cinnamon Luxury Care which has recently been recognised as one of the Top 20 large care home groups in the UK by independent reviews website Carehome.co.uk based entirely on feedback from residents families and friends.
To find out more about our limited PreOpening Promotion at The Gables and to book a tour of the home, call Mike on 01562 245108 or email gables.enquiries@cinnamoncc.com. Mike will also be able to tell you about Parkfield Grange, Cinnamon’s other established care home in nearby Stourbridge.
www.cinnamoncc.com/westmidlands
thE gablES – a brand nEW CarE homE Coming to haglEy thiS autumn
“I have dedicated my life to creating revolutionary skincare treatments which have transformed the way my clients both look and feel. And now, I’m delighted to offer professional advanced fillers in addition to the specialist treatments already available at my Shifnal-based salon, Heaven Medi-Spa and at Harvey Nicols at the Mailbox in Birmingham”.
“People are increasingly worried about the shape of their facial features and fillers are a massively effective tool in making a real difference. Although I am primarily a holistic therapist I want to bring my clients all treatments that will make them look and feel their best.”
And, Deborah is fully qualified to perform the treatment after achieving the highest possible accreditation from the UK’s leading training school:
“I’m thrilled to be able to offer fillers which create a really natural and flattering look no matter where they are being injected and my clients have been amazed by how just a small amount of filler can enhance their entire face.” Deborah also uses fillers to perform treatments which offer clients a real alternative to surgery:
“Using fillers I’m able to offer treatments like ‘Russian Lips’ and ‘Twinkle Nose’ as well as non-surgical facelifts. I can also use the fillersto change features that
clients are unhappy with, like a hook nose, as well as being able to use fat removal injections to reduce unwanted fat in the cheeks and jaw line.”
Ironically, Deborah first trained in collagen injections at the age of 22 years old, but refused to carry out the treatment once she learned that they were created using un-natural ingredients.
Of course, there is a full range of expert skin-beautifying treatments at Heaven and Deborah has ensured that each is priced competitively so that everyone has the opportunity to look and feel amazing.
“I really feel lucky to have been able to look after so many people’s faces for so long and whether it’s one of my loyal customers at Heaven or a celebrity client it is a real privilege to make everyone look incredible,” adds Deborah.
The gift of beautiful skin & health with Heaven’s new anti-ageing weapon. Renowned in the beauty industry for her game-changing beauty essentials, she has launched her latest innovation – Collagen Drops.
“Collagen is found in abundance in our skin when we are young, but as we get older the amount diminishes – in fact, by the time we’re 50 we’ve already lost up to a third, and this leads to a dry complexion and signs of ageing,” explains Deborah. “Thankfully, my new Collagen Drops help boost that lost collagen… and then some. I’ve been working on these new supplements for a number of years now and because I am using high levels of collagen the results so far have been just amazing.”
Recognised to help with:
• Hair growth
• Increasing thyroid function
• Anti-ageing
• Skin elasticity
• Brighter eyes
• Improvement of aches and pains
She suggests adding two squirts in a glass of water each morning, also mix in with Heaven’s Age Defiance Cream, or, if you have a
and evening. By week two I started to see the change – it literally happened overnight. I noticed that my skin was glowing when I woke up and later that day a relative ask me what skincare products I was using as she noticed the difference too.
blemish on your face, then add a drop directly to your skin and massage in.
Katie has been using the new Collagen Drops for a month and has been delighted with the results: “I started using the drops every morning
“Since then, I have noticed the shine on my hair is amazing. I have long dark hair and it can often look dull it is now so shiny that I’ve received so many compliments.
• Strengthening the immune system
• Boosting the metabolism
• Healthier, heart, bones, joints & tendons
• Nail strength/growth
• Memory
Sleep
Hormone support
Aiding in weight loss
Preventing and reversing Arthritis
Stabilising blood sugar levels
have started looking at party outfits & fabulous accessories, hopefully this
we get closer to xmas
we can enjoy a normal party season! I didn’t have to look very far for beautiful jewellery, Elie Top has created a beautiful collection for Zara & as gold jewellery is back on trend it’s a perfect treat or gift for a stylish friend. Fabulous eye popping colour is still key so don’t be a shrinking violet make sure you buy a statement
to last all
By Sally Mansell - www.shecanstyle.co.uk
10 – anthropologie.com – fringe dress
11 – amazon.co.uk – jywmsc clutch
12 – kurtgeiger.com – velvet sandal
13 – gemymaalouf.com – long dress
14 – marksandspencer.com – jaeger dress
15 – modainpelle.com – clutch bag
– libertyinlove.co.uk – feather bolero
– zara.com – green sling back
– kevanjon.com - dress
I have chosen four very different party dresses, all beautiful colours hopefully appealing to all of you. Jaeger are now on the M&S website, this fuchsia dress with cut out detail is a classic look, just add metallic accessories. The dress by Gemy Maalouf popped up on my instagram & as it's so beautiful I wanted to share it with you. I love the fringe dress from Anthroplolgie, perfect for dancing in velvet shoes. Recently I have been helping a lovely lady who reads my fashion edit to choose her Mother of the Bride outfit, after shopping around I found a fabulous brand by Kevan Jon & I am happy to say our shopping trip was a success, now we are busy accessorizing which is great fun!
– meandem.com
meandem.com –
meandem.com –
zara.com –
marksandspencer.com –
marksandspencer.com
colour is one of my favourite trends & this season you can’t go wrong with red, The red twill coat from M&S is fabulous, I recently tried it on in our local store & it’s a great shape, make sure you look at M&S for sports luxe pieces. Me and Em are one of my favourite brands, they layer outfits really well & create interesting separates in fabulous colours, trainer are still key, add these chunky sneakers from Russell & Bromley.
There is nothing more romantic than a winter wedding. Snow on the ground, frost in the air and tree bowers dripping with frozen crystals while inside is warm and cosy with glowing open fires, twinkling candlelight and fulsome winter foliage.
It used to be that winter was considered the “off season” but venues have now wised up to the fact that it is a popular time of year to marry so the prices can be the same as peak season especially, the week between Christmas and New Year. So if you are planning a winter wedding then it is best to embrace the season and use what is readily available to you.
Make sure your venue works in the winter
Obviously if you are planning a winter wedding then you should view the venue in the winter to see if it works well in the colder months. If you are attracted to venues that offer open fires with large ornate fireplaces to enhance the wintery theme, do ask then venue manager when you are viewing if the fires are working and can be lit. It is also worth checking whether you can have candles as many venue will not allow a naked flame (if not, don’t worry, you can use storm lanterns which when wreathed in winter foliage look just the part).
When booking the venue take care to avoid any cold-weather mishaps. Make sure that
people can actually get to the venue and that there is sufficient parking. If your wedding or reception is in a remote area do leave enough time in the agenda for people to get to the destination in case of bad weather that might slow them down. It might be worth considering having your ceremony and reception at the same venue, saving your guests any travel trouble if there is bad weather.
Check with the venue to make sure that there is sufficient matting at the entrance point so that guests can wipe their shoes and not tread slushy footprints into the venue. Look for a venue that has plenty of space between the main entrance and the access to the reception room. That way, you’ll keep the indoor environment toasty and warm.
In the cold then guests will have coats and scarves so make sure that the venue has a cloakroom (and if possible a cloak room attendant) so that guests can leave they belongings safely.
Hotels will have sufficient heating but it might be worth checking that other venues such as marquees or church halls have heating in place. Conversely when the disco starts up it can get rather hot and sticky, check with the venue manager to see if the heating can be reduced in that particular area.
There are plenty of ways to decorate your venue to create a warm and cosy atmosphere. With the sun setting early in the winter months, candles and crystals will add to wintery romance to any venue setting. To add to the ambience, consider bringing in lush, soft textures. Deep red velvety roses set amongst dark green foliage such a holly (especially with the red berries) will add a touch of luxury to the setting. Enhance this with wide velvet ribbon which you can tie around napkins or candles centrepieces. You could even tie the ribbon to the chairs and hang themed decorations such a wooden hearts of crystal snowflakes.
If ever there was an excuse to use vibrant colours such as forest greens, deep crimsons and brilliant whites then certainly winter is the season to do so. You can also use heavier fabrics such a velvet or sensual silk satins. If you want lace look for the heavier variety like Battenberg lace which is more substantial and will keep you warmer. The best part of winter wedding fashion is that you can indulge in luxurious full skirts without the fear of getting too hot or weighed down with the extra fabric. Choose a style of dress that has sleeves for extra protection and warmth. ¾ sleeves in particular can look very feminine.
If you still want to wear shoulder-baring strapless gowns or slinky sheaths you will need to think carefully about your accessories so that you can keep warm and avoid shivering your way through your photography session while still looking fabulous in your dress. Envelop yourself in a stole or find a warm shawl or cashmere wrap for a look that exudes a charming winter style and essentially, keeps you warm. Look to the more substantial fabrics such as velvet or faux
fur to complement your gown and embellish your winter wonderland look.
For shoes, go for a close-toed style (strappy heels could be hazardous in snow) as there might be ice or even worse slush on the ground. Why not have a pair of white boots which will peep out from under you dress but keep you sure footed. You could always change into the heels once you are safely at the reception venue. It may be an idea to have a pair of white snow boots that you can change in and out of to travel between venues - fun for the photographs too!
Add gloves for a touch of Hollywood glamour. Choose a colour that complements your flowers or theme. Perhaps dress your groom in a slick suit and add a scarf in the same colour as your gloves to match the wedding colour theme.
Winter weddings give you the opportunity to serve your guests something quite different and very seasonal. Serve an alternative reception drink such a mulled wine served with mini mince pie or Winter Pimms with gingerbread men decorated in white piped icing to resemble the bride or groom. For sheer decadence, serve a white hot chocolate with marshmallow dips.
For the favours you could have pots of homemade hedgerow jam for the girls and jars of chutney or pickle for the boys. Or bag up snowflake shortbread biscuits piped in white icing and tied with ribbon your wedding colours.
With careful planning you can enjoy all the usual wedding traditions bundled up in a festive winter theme with unique elements to set your wedding apart from the norm. You and your guests will be rosy cheeked, them from the mulled wine and you from the flush of love...
Wolverhampton Grammar School students have been celebrating the strongest A Level exam results at the School for over 10 years, with 48% of all grades awarded A*/A and 72% A*- B. 64% of Cambridge Technical qualifications were at Distinction* and Distinction. The Year 11s also achieved a fantastic 72% of grades at 9-7 (A*/A equivalent) at GCSE, nearly 20 percentage points higher than the same figure in 2019.
From Art to Languages, Business to Psychology, Chemistry to Sport, students can study from a choice of 20 A Levels and 2 Cambridge Technicals. Many students also take an Extended Project Qualification. A huge advantage of choosing WGS Sixth Form is the flexibility in subject choice with no option blocks curtailing combinations. Staff really do go the extra mile to make students’ preferred subject options work for them.
Recognising that private education is a considerable investment, Wolverhampton Grammar School offers value for money with increased teaching hours per subject in the Lower and Upper Sixth (Years 12-13) to enable students to gain deeper subject knowledge. Enviable staff to student ratios mean that class sizes are no more than 15 and teachers really get to know each individual well. Dedicated careers staff and expertise in higher education ensures that students secure the right pathway
for them - be that university entrance, an apprenticeship, taking a gap year or going into employment. Included in the school fees is the widest offering of extra-curricular clubs, societies and overseas educational visits of any independent school in the area.
For those in search of fee assistance a generous bursary scheme offers the opportunity of a WGS education to deserving recipients from all backgrounds. As well as recognising academic excellence, these include a Sixth Form Sports scholarship awarded to a student who can demonstrate a strong sporting ability such as county, regional or national representation in their chosen sport. In addition to meanstested awards, further opportunity exists for students demonstrating musical scholarship.
Students interested in entering the Sixth Form are invited to the Wolverhampton
Grammar School Sixth Form Subject Options Evening on Thursday 17th November and those registering for Year 7 should register for the Year 7 Entrance Test on Saturday 14th January. Following the expansion of its Junior School, children can now join Wolverhampton Grammar School from the age of 4 years and continue right through to Sixth Form. The next Junior School Open Day will be held on Saturday 28th January 2023. Contact Admissions on Tel: 01902 422 939 to register your interest.
Join us for a personal family tour. Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you will make for your child and we want to give you the best opportunity to discover all that is on offer at Tettenhall College, for children aged 2 18 years. Have a detailed tour of our beautiful school and facilities
Learn about our high levels of academic success Hear about our tailored Preparatory Pathways Programme
Discover our innovative Scholars' Programme, driving academic ambition & outcomes across the school Explore our outstanding facilities, including boarding Meet members of staff, pupils & current parents
Award Winning
Excellent University Entry Find out more about the outstanding universities our pupils go on to
Innovative Scholars Programme
Applications are now being accepted for entry in September 2023 and September 2024. A very limited number of mid-year places may be available, although some year groups are now full. A waiting list for these year groups is available.
Please contact admissions@tettcoll.co.uk to book your family tour.
The cathedral city of Gloucester, which lies beside the River Severn, offers a fascinating insight into a rich and colourful history. King Henry II granted the city its first charter in 1155 and in 1216 Henry III was crowned king, at the age of nine, on the site of Gloucester Cathedral; the city’s most popular attraction.
On arrival, I set off to explore Gloucester Cathedral, to gaze upon its glorious Gothic architecture and to reflect on over 1,300 years of Christian heritage.
The foundation stone of the Abbey of St Peter, now Gloucester Cathedral, was laid in 1089. The remarkable Nave, which was completed in 1130, is 420 feet in length, 144 feet wide and the central tower rises to 225 feet with four pinnacles at the peak.
The medieval Cloisters, completed in 1367, feature the first example of fan vaulting in the UK. Devotees of Harry Potter movies will recognise this area, which was used to represent the corridors of Hogwart’s School. I was enchanted by the enormous Great East Window, which is situated above the altar and was installed in the 1350’s.
As I explored the cathedral’s mesmerising treasures I lost track of time and succumbed to temptation and indulged in the afternoon tea experience in the Monk’s Kitchen, the cathedral’s popular café. Served with aplomb, the dainty sandwiches, delicious scones with generous helpings of fruity jam with fresh cream and tasty pastries were all scrumptious and after a piping hot cup of English tea I took
a leisurely stroll along to my accommodation.
I checked into the Judges Lodgings located on Spa Road. The exquisite regency building, designed by Sir Robert Smirke, who also designed the main block and façade of the British Museum, features a Cotswold stone façade, ornate balcony and cornice and dates back to the 1840’s. The Judges Lodgings offers 15 luxurious and spacious apartments with 1, 2, 3 or 4 bedrooms. I selected a one bedroom apartment, measuring 1000 sq ft, on the ground floor. The contemporary, open-plan lounge features a full size red telephone box and ultra comfy leather chairs and a plump sofa. The dining and kitchen areas are also sumptuously furnished with a modern flair and the highest level of comfort is provided throughout. The kitchen features every appliance expected including a washing machine and a dish washer and the gorgeous bathroom includes a shower and a freestanding bath tub. For those able to whip up a culinary delight in the kitchen, every gadget is at hand. Alas, my cooking skills are lacking and later that evening I decided to venture outside in search of a dining venue.
I spotted a rather long queue of customers outside Ye Old Restaurant and Fish Shoppe on Hare Lane. Gloucester’s oldest fish and chip restaurant, thought to date back to 1530, is listed as a building of special architectural interest with exposed beams and sloping floors and I was absolutely enchanted. I ordered the succulent cod and chips and a chilled glass of Chardonnay which was served with panache.
Up with the larks the following morning I made my way to the Gloucester Quays, which is crammed with designer shops and outlets. Weighed down with bags of goodies and with a dent in my credit card I felt a little hot under the collar and headed for the Coal Kitchen on Merchant’s Road, which offers waterfront dining. I ordered the succulent chicken shish skewers with flat bread and salad garnish, and a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio, which were served with flair, and as I watched a small boat sailing by, I held my glass aloft and made a toast to my mini-break in the glorious city of Gloucester.
For more information on the featured property visit judgeslodgings.net, email info@ judgeslodgings.uk or call 07904 747 457
Avoid the roads and travel in style and
comfort with Great Western Railway direct from London Paddington to Gloucester from £18.90 and only 1 hour 46 minutes. For more information visit gwr.com
For more information visit: museumofgloucester.co.uk
Preheat oven to 125°C
•
1.5k of duck fat or 1.5 litre of
star anise
bay leaves
1 sprig of rosemary
sprig of thyme
1 garlic bulb cut in half across the middle
• Melt the duck fat in a casserole dish and place the duck and spices in the oil carefully. Cover with foil and place in oven for 3 hours or until tender. Make sure the legs are submerged in the oil.
• Remove legs from the fat once cooked, turn the oven up to 180oC and roast in the oven skin side up until crispy and browned. (About 12 - 15 minutes)
Use packet bread sauce if you like to save time but if you want to make your own, email mike@takefood.co.uk for my recipe.
• Make the bread sauce and add a little double cream and butter to enrich it.
Chopped pistachios, finely diced green apple
• Chop the shallots, pistachio and green apple, blanch the broccoli and plate up as in the photo. Enjoy!
5 eggs
120g soft dark brown sugar
70g of plain flour
30g of Cacao or 50g of cocoa powder
1 tbsp of decent vanilla paste
1/2 tsp of ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp of ground star anise
Caster sugar for sprinkling on tray
450g of good quality plain chocolate chips
30g of soft butter
600ml double cream
1 tbsp of spiced dark rum
Icing sugar and anything you like such as chocolate leaves, glace fruit roasted nuts,
candied citrus and so on.
• Preheat oven to 180°C/fan160°C/gas 4. Line a Swiss roll tin with baking paper. Beat the eggs and sugar together with an electric whisk for 5 minutes until thick.
• Sift over the flour and cocoa and fold in with the vanilla. Spread in the tin. Bake for 12-14 minutes. Turn out onto baking paper sprinkled with sugar. Cool a little, then roll up from the long side with the paper. Cool.
• Put the chocolate and butter in a mixing bowl. Heat 450ml cream in a pan until almost boiling, then pour over the chocolate. Leave for 5 minutes, add the bourbon and stir until smooth. Cool for 10 minutes, then whip until light. Transfer a third of the ganache to a bowl. Whisk in the remaining cream. Unroll the sponge, spread with the creamy ganache.
• Ice the roulade with the remaining ganache. Decorate and dust with icing sugar.
The Panthers took on their first opponents of the 2022 / 2023 season at home on Sunday 25th September.
A newly formed team dominated their first season in National Challenge 3 Midlands West finishing top of the table. The Panthers had their first outing of the season after being newly promoted into National Challenge 2 Midlands West. Supporters gathered at Stourton Park to watch another winning display from the ladies against Wolverhampton. (22-12 to the Panthers)
The Panthers train non contact on Monday evenings from 7.30 until 9pm & contact training on Thursday evenings 7.30pm until 9pm at Stourton Park.
We are a progressive, inclusive & welcoming squad who are always interested in new players & potential sponsors. The squad has four dedicated coaches & a physio, plus state of the art club facilities including a 4G artificial grass pitch & stadium seating. Stourbridge Rugby Club is dedicated in supporting the growth of both girls & womens Rugby. This season sees six of the Pumas girl section make the move up to senior Rugby with all playing in the first league fixture.
Panthers home games are free to watch & your able to monitor their progress by following
Stourbridge Rugby's Facebook page or listen to Black Country radios sports bulletins on Fridays & their main LIVE sports show on Saturdays from 2pm until 6pm.
2022/2023 National Challenge 2 Midlands (West) fixtures: 25/9/22 Wolverhampton (Home) 2/10/22 Dudley Kingswinford (Away) 16/10/22 Birmingham Moseley (Away) 23/10/22 Lichfield (Home) 6/11/22 Telford (Away) 13/11/22 Tamworth (Home) 4/12/22 Old Leamingtonians (Away) 11/12/22 Handsworth (Home) 18/12/22 Bournvillie (Away) 8/01/23 Dudley Kingswinford (Home) 15/01/23 Birmingham Moseley(Away) 22/01/23 Lichfield (Away) 12/02/23 Telford (Home) 19/02/23 Tamworth (Away) 12/03/23 Old Leamingtonians (Home) 19/03/23 Handsworth (Away) 2/04/23 Bournvillie (Home) 16/04/23 Wolverhampton (Away)
If your interested in either playing womens Rugby at Stourbridge RFC, or looking to sponsor then please email The Panthers team manager Darren Bassett.
DarrenBassett@icloud.com
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This year, it’s estimated that about 10.6 million Christmas trees, both farmed and artificial, will be sold in the Uk.
Artificial Christmas tree sales hot up on October 30, with sales peaking in the first week of December. Most Christmas trees are up and fully decorated by December 4.
Robert Dyas has its best selection of Christmas trees this year both in-store and online, including an impressive 7-ft LED pre-lit tree, a variety of ‘real feel’ trees, plus fibre optic wonders.
Jodie Harris, known as the Robert Dyas Head Elf, has looked into its best-selling Christmas trees and identified what a person’s Christmas tree says about them. The Head Elf says: “Christmas trees are the focal point of virtually every home. We’ve listened to our shoppers and have noted some frequently recurring traits.”
With abundant dark green foliage and often decorated in traditional red, green and gold, the ‘natural wholesome Christmas tree’ – like its owner – represents solid family values and the true generous spirit of Christmas. This tree is the heart of the home and is a timeless classic.
Many of the decorations will hold great sentimental value to the owner, evoking memories of family days gone by, and decorating the tree is always an annual family affair, with great value placed on input from family members, both young and old.
This tree owner loves Christmas tradition and thrives on the chaos associated with the festive season. Christmas allows them to shine as brightly as the star on top of their tree. With their exceptional organisational skills, they produce superb Christmas fare, enough to feed an army, all executed with military precision, of course. Their natural warmth and flair for entertaining comes to the fore at Christmas time.
Christmas is an all-round sensory experience for the sensual ‘alpinist tree’ lover. This snowdusted Christmas creation inspires thoughts of cosy log cabins, snow-covered slopes and the heavenly aroma of pinecones burning on an open fire. Alpinists are excited by the ‘real feel’ technology of this exquisite tree.
The ‘alpinist tree’ owner loves the great outdoors and seeks to recreate their alpine fantasy indoors. They dream of spending the festive season skiing across glistening snowcovered slopes before returning to their luxurious ski chalet with cheeks aglow. Their
idea of heaven is wearing a chunky jumper and sinking into the sofa whilst sipping on mulled wine and feasting on roasted chestnuts with their loved ones gathered all around. For the Alpinist, Christmas is like living in a winter wonderland Christmas card. It is all about immersing themselves in the pictureperfect magical atmosphere of the season.
A tall, slim, striking ice-white Christmas tree makes a bold statement. Like their owners, these splendid trees display total design confidence with their ultra-modern take on the festive season.
A pure white tree makes for a stunning centrepiece at any Christmas party and these trees are ideally suited to someone who enjoys being the star of the show. Christmas party people are vibrant and fun loving, especially around the festive season and this fantastically coloured tree expresses their blithe spirit.
But be warned: do not attempt to offer any décor advice! ‘Party people tree lovers’ are notoriously possessive about their trees and decorating rights are strictly exclusive to the owner. Baubles are always colour coordinated and precision in placement is key to the creation of this masterpiece.
White Christmas trees are very much on trend, appealing mostly to a younger generation of Instgrammers and Snapchatters setting up home for the first time.
The most understated, yet stunningly stylish tree belongs to the minimalists. Like their owners, their appearance is elegant, streamlined and super-sleek.
There is no clutter and chaos associated with the high-gloss experience of a minimalist
Christmas. The ‘minimalist tree’ will typically be found in a pristine home environment, such as an uber-cool urban apartment. Christmas is a chic monochromatic affair run with clockwork efficiency and the sheer simplicity is representative of the smooth running and fuss-free existence of the ‘minimalist tree’ lover.
Christmas dinner might comprise a sophisticated tray of sushi rather than a traditional Christmas turkey with all its trimmings and paraphernalia. The ‘minimalist Christmas tree’ deliberately lacks any adornment with not a bauble in sight! This tree is all about restraint in design and is perhaps the preferred choice of individuals who work in the fields of architecture or interior design.
This tree is also favoured by people with very little time on their hands to spend decorating and those who might be going away over Christmas but want to demonstrate their Christmas spirit.
01902334224
www.john-starkey.co.uk E: johnstarkey123@outlook.com
Capricorn December 21 - January 19
Disregard fanciful ideas from others and try to stick to what you know. Your brilliance lies in the experience that you have gathered in the past.
Cancer June 21 - July 21
The creative and artistic side of your personality is uppermost and this could lead to a change of direction in your thinking, therefore creating a new circle of friends and acquaintances.
quarius January 20 - February 18 July 22 - August 21
You seem to be in line for some cash surprises as the old spondulicks stakes improve. Enjoy this Midas Touch while it lasts. You could be laughing all the way to the bank.
isces February 19 - March 20
You are just one short step away from finding more professional advancements. Maybe you are being headhunted or in line for a spot of promotion? Either way, you could turn out to be in favour, big time.
If you can, it’s better to keep a cool head as far as making important decisions is concerned. You seem to be ‘clearing the clutter’ in a very positive way. You should feel on top of the world.
irgo August 22 - September 22
Saturn, the planet of restriction, seems to be loosening its grip on your sign. This should mean that you can let your hair down and let it all hang out. It’s party time, so enjoy every minute of it.
March 21 - April 20 September 21 - October 22
It’s your amazing wit and humour that will help you to charm the birds out of the trees. However, making them laugh could lead to romance filling the air. Ooh la la.
taurus April 21 - May 20
Precision is the key word. It’s very important to get it right. Watch out for know-it-alls and those who think that they know better. Trust your own judgement and you will win every time.
As your thoughts turn to the future, you should find a new sense of optimism taking over. This could change things for the better, once and for
23 - November 22
Time is on your side, so maybe take life one step at a time. A plan or system is definitely required. Preparations go better with a smidgen of forward planning.
May 21 - June 20
It’s time to be tight-lipped about what you know. The day will come when you can tell others exactly how you feel. Straight talking is required, but wait your time and the impact could be amazing.
-
Staying on schedule is very important. Turn up well brushed with your boots blacked and you just can’t go wrong. That intrepid planet Jupiter is putting you into the limelight.
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Honda has introduced the 3rd generation of the HR-V and this particular derivative certainly stands out, writes Bob Hickman.
The square design front is seriously making a statement, I am not convinced that the grille in the colour coded paintwork works, contrasting colours or chrome effect front grille I believe look better. If you get the opportunity have a look at the rear when the lights are on, it is a kaleidoscope of colour and really does look outstanding.
This latest generation has received an extensive overhaul and is now available purely as a hybrid utilising Honda’s brilliant 1.5-litre petrol engine, allied to batteries and electric power. No leads or plugs necessary, the engine recharges the battery.
The cabin is really spacious, and the HR-V comes, with Honda’s wonderful magic rear seats, so when you are not utilising the rear
seats you have almost van-like carrying capacity, check them out.
A combined petrol engine with the electric motors is the source of power, the transition between petrol and electric is seamless, the only way you know is a little EV light on the dashboard, but the economics of the HR-V are outstanding. The petrol engine produces 107bhp, add in to that the electric motors and you have quite a powerful vehicle. The 0-60 is claimed to be about 10.6 seconds and the top speed is 105mph, which in this day and age is possibly low but then again with our speed restrictions who needs more. The claimed combined fuel figure of 52.3 mpg should be achievable, I have to be honest during my sojourn with the HR-V I averaged 67mpg, perhaps I am light footed because I tended to be able to utilise EV power an awful lot of the time. CO2 g/km is quoted at 122g/km.
I loved the cabin, it is very, very spacious,
and the 9” touchscreen is high up on the dashboard and it had a mixture of various dials behind the steering wheel, you need to get used to these features, and as a Honda owner myself, the familiarity between the two made life a lot easier.
Visibility is excellent due to the large windows. I particularly liked the manoeuvrability, whilst you look at the vehicle you see it is a long vehicle but it was extremely easy to park. Comfort for passengers and the amount of space for all occupants was a delight.
The driver has a pleasant environment to be cocooned within, the automatic transmission worked well, the transition between electric and petrol power is impossible to note. The HR-V has 3 driving modes, Economy, Normal and Sport. In Sport mode it makes the throttle response slightly quicker and it makes the steering just a little heavier so you get more
feedback if you decide to push on, but then again, I don’t think you buy this type of vehicle to push on.
The equipment that Honda have installed in the vehicle is on the high side, there is Adaptive Cruise Control, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, lane assist and lane departure features.
Without doubt the HR-V is a bright, modern looking vehicle with excellent technological features including, for those rear passengers who are obsessive with their electronic devices rear USB chargers.
Honda HR-V’s start from £26,960 and the on the road price of the HR-V Advance Style vehicle, as tested, was £32,605 and this did include an £825 premium for the wonderful Crystal Red metallic paint.
Those of us who have children will know the experience of seeing the surprise in a child's eyes when we respond to a bold request with the word "yes". They instantly switch from uncertainty to delight.
Like a child trained over time to hear the word ‘no’, even as grown-ups, when discussing a different course of action, we are conditioned to expect words of caution, encouragement to practice frugality or even a firm ‘no’.
If instead, we hear a positive affirmation, we are now in the position to take the discussed action, but as humans we automatically go into procrastination mode. Fear of the unknown kicks in and we feel we are creeping out of our comfort zone.
I see this often… a client will approach me with a decision they need to make, often giving away what it is they'd really like to do but regardless, they have become paralysed
Siobhan Record Our Lifestyle’s Financial Expert
and unable to take action. We discuss the implications and so often, they need nothing more than permission to live the life they want and it becomes my privilege to nudge them towards a more meaningful life.
Many of us have been conditioned by parents, society, and even the professional advice we receive to associate spending with negative emotions. These money mindsets are embedded firmly in our psyche and often lead to us living a worse life than is possible.
I firmly believe, my role as a financial planner extends further than the technical advice I am qualified to dispense. If I don’t go further, I am just helping you to stay ‘stuck’ and you deserve so much more.
If you are interested in knowing more about how I work and you have investments of over £200,000 why not give Jo a ring on 01562 745730 to arrange a no obligation 30-minute free meeting in our office.
The information in this article does not constitute investment advice; you must not rely on the content when making investment decisions without taking advice. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. The value investments and the income from them, may fall or rise and investors may get back less than they invested.
No two people are the same, that’s why no two wills are the same. Here at Talbots our expert Trusts and Estates team take time to understand your unique situation. No o -the-shelf solutions from us. Because our legal specialists have decades of experience, they design something which works for you. Just you. Get in touch if you need a local legal expert on your side.
