Our Lifestyle Magazine September/October 19

L

Our

ifestyle Magazine

September / October 2019

WIN 4 FAMILY TICKETS FOR SOME LIKE IT HIP HOP AT THE BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME

Competition WIN £200 VOUCHER AT FROX

Delivered to 15,000 Selected Households and Businesses Swindon, Himley, Sedgley, Kingswinford, Wall Heath, Enville, Kinver, Stourton, Wollaston, Stourbridge, Norton, Old Swinford, Pedmore, Hagley, Blakedown, Belbroughton, Kidderminster, Halesowen ourlifestylemag.co.uk

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Our Lifestyle Magazine

Contents

Welcome to Autumn!

As the nights draw in and the leaves start to fall we turn to our home comforts, check out our Autumn interior tips on how to make your home cosy and comfortable.

It's back to school for the children and back to work for most of us, take a look at our Fashion Feature for new trends on jumpers.

Winner of the Horizons FFD package was a lady called Wendy Morris, from Willenhall

Our Lifestyle Magazine showcases interesting features & articles on local people & paces helping our readers to source the best products & services in their local area.

We always welcome input from our readers & advertisers, so if you have a story or event that you think we should know about. Then please do contact us

Home & Contents 2-28 Crossword

29

Travel

30-35

Food & Drink

36-41

Education

42-45

Weddings

46-50

Fashion

51-57

Heath

58-63

Hair & Beauty

64-66

Classified

67

What’s on

68-71

Pets

72-77

Leisure

78-79

Charity

80-83

Horoscopes

84-85

B2B

86

Financial & Legal 87- 93

EARN MONEY & KEEP FIT Our magazine wants distributors in Kidderminster, Halesowen, Milking Bank & Sedgley . Good rates of pay.

Ring Graham on 07969 884247 for details.

Funerals

94-95

Motors

96-97

Gardens

98-99

Danielle Scandrett

Linda Farren

Marketing & Design Manager

Managing Director 07841 431446

daniellescandrett@outlook.com

linda@ourlifestylemag.co.uk

Feature Writers; Bob Hickman, Jane de Weijer, Kate Worland, Michelle Barnett, Mike Whitehurst, Rebecca Underwood.

Competition Terms & Conditions 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 Our 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 15th of the second month in the issue date e.g. issue March/April 2018 the winner will be notified by 15th April 2018. Entry will assume acceptance of these terms and conditions. Competition start date is the start of the month of the magazine issue and will run until 10th of the second month in the issue date e.g. issue March/April 2018 the competition will run until 10th April 2018 Details of the winner available on request by writing to: Our Lifestyle Magazine Limited, Dominique House 1 Church Road, Netherton. DY2 0LY. Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Our Lifestyle Magazine cannot accept responsibility for any loss, damage, or omission in an advert. Our Lifestyle Magazine does not officially endorse advertising material which is printed on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All rights are reserved.

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Let’s Celebrate!

As a family business, we’re immensely proud to have served our From Cousins. local community, for the last 34 years. So, we’re celebrating with fantastic savings and offers.

Anniversary offer prices throughout the store & online

Bologna 3 Seater Sofa Was £849

Anniversary price £599 4

Interest free credit available

Tucson Marble Dining Table + 4 chairs Was £1549

Anniversary price £1099

Interest free credit available

Be inspired by our choice, quality and low prices

Kendal Double Bedstead Was £349

accessories, pictures, mirrors & rugs 25% OFF Alllamps,

Anniversary price £269

cousinsfurniture.co.uk Birmingham | Dudley | Manchester 5

Our Home

NEW WAVE, TRADITIONAL VALUES step-by-step to achieve their goals. Whether that be through a showroom based service where the customer presents us with a basic shopping list, or a full home-visit appointment with one of our bathroom designers.With state of the art CAD software, loaded with computer generated replicas of the products on display in our showroom and thousands more, we are able to give the customer a virtual reality design of what a finished article could look like, before a finger has been lifted!

This planning tool allows us to eliminate the problem of trying to visualise a completed project, by presenting a photorealistic image for approval by the customer.”

New Wave Bathrooms is now under the management of the founding families’ 3rd generation but the values and principles on which their business was built, are still very much at the forefront of how the company operate today. “Over the last 4 decades we have built our reputation on recommendation and hold customer service with the utmost importance. We work with and only recommend trusted installers who approach their job with the same passion and attention to detail as we do. Paired with the quality of the product we supply, this has helped us to have such a long and successful trading history. We constantly retrain our staff to keep up with ever-changing product lines and fashions but ensure that the service we offer is consistently to the highest standard” Large scale showroom refurbishments took place recently; Firstly with a complete overhaul of New Wave’s Heritage Bathroom Centre, showcasing the latest in classic and countrystyled bathroom equipment - trends which are currently sweeping the nation and secondly, the purpose-built Crosswater Bathrooms shop-in-shop area was launched, focusing on contemporary design and modern day living. To view these stunning displays and discover many more, visit the showroom at 19, Lisle Avenue, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY11 7DF or contact us on 01562 751714 info@newwavebathrooms.co.uk

Founded in 1989 by 1st & 2nd generation family members Philip Langford & Kevin Vale, New Wave Bathrooms of Lisle Avenue, Kidderminster, boast a proud history of supplying the bathroom industry’s leading brands, coupled with professional advice and dependable customer service over an existence spanning almost 30 years. Operating from one of the largest bathroom-only showrooms in Worcestershire, household names such as Heritage Bathrooms, Villeroy & Boch and Matki Showers are just a few on the long list of reputable manufacturers, who’s products help to make up in excess of 70 individual displays. Whether your ideal bathroom is ultra-modern, timelessly classic, or steeped in British tradition, you will be sure to find inspiration within the welcoming atmosphere of the family-run shop.

From the smaller cloakroom refurbishments right the way through to larger scale multiroom projects, the expert staff provide a level of assistance that can only be found in this type of specialist bathroom establishment, calling on years of experience to help the customer achieve the room of their dreams.

“Customers are invited to visit our showroom and discuss any ideas and plans which they may have for renovations to existing rooms or new-build projects and we will assist them

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Bathrooms Wetrooms En Suites & Cloakrooms

FLAGSHIP SHOWROOM

Tiles

3D Design Service Trusted Installers Local & National Delivery

Tues - Sat 9am - 5pm Sun & Mon Closed

newwave bathrooms Style & Quality at competitive prices Unit 1, 19 Lisle Avenue, Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY11 7DF

www.newwavebathrooms.co.uk

Tel. 01562 751714

info@newwavebathrooms.co.uk

Fax. 01562 862242 7

Our Home

Autumn Days

By Jane de Weijer : Make Space Interiors ltd contact: jane@makespaceinteriors.co.uk

It is Autumn and I am looking at the textures and finishes that add warmth and drama to an Interior.

Current trends for luxe fabrics and rich finishes continues into Autumn 2019.

Taking an Inspiration board through to a finished scheme includes researching and collating finishes and images that appeal to you and that reflect the atmosphere that you are aiming to create.

Detail is paramount when designing a room. It is the door handles and the accessories, curtain rails and furniture finishes that will make your scheme special. .

KITCHEN FINISHES included on the board would look spectacular with the correct uplighting.

Bold stone finishes are on-trend and as you come to design your kitchen/living space the choices will be extensive. My advice is to be adventurous as you combine finishes and textures, using light, depth of shade and texture to create your room.

To provide contrast to the textures I have included very simple, pared down kitchen cabinets. The light fittings are elegant and, in this instance, the materials used are simple, opaque smoked glass and porcelain in neutral shades. These are sourced from Original BTC www.originalbtc.com/lighting.

This kitchen inspiration board includes a marbled kitchen island with a rich dark wood floor finish. Alongside this I have combined a bronze patina finish which could be used as a splash back or a wall panel. It is always a good idea to search for textures as inspiration before you finalise your scheme, for example the textured concrete panel that i have

The concrete uplighter that I have included, again made from a simple raw material washes the wall and enhances any textures that you have specified.

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Our Home

KITCHEN DESIGNED From the original inspiration board I have created a strong simple look with clean shapes and natu-ral textures.

Taking the inspiration board forward to a completed design scheme includes contrasting the clean lines of the kitchen units with the stones and textures.

Black units with a copper frame line provide a bold contrast to the exposed brickwork columns that are part of the fabric of this space.

The large marble look island includes kitchen stools with a warm terracotta velvet upholstery.

As this is an open plan Living/kitchen space the colours and textures need to ‘flow’ through.

Terracotta shades, deep teal blues and stone shelves throughout the living area serve to enhance the kitchen finishes and take the theme throughout the room.

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Our Home

GET THE LOOK On the board I have included a range of finishes that can be used to create the scheme in your room.

compliments the warm terracotta shades well.

Introduce a large Industrial style pendant light to hang over your kitchen island. Industville, www.industville.co.uk, have a good range of reproduction Industrial style pendants, or, if you are looking for authentic vintage, I suggest sourcing at antique fairs and through local dealers. A note of caution, the industrial finish is popular so be sure to be thorough and well researched.

Think natural materials, this sofa with its clean lines and leather upholstery from Bo Concept con-tinues the pared back luxury theme. www.boconcept.co.uk A return to artisan craft inspired accessories continues and the trend works perfectly in this interior. I love this vase by Bo Concept www.boconcept.com

Luxe velvet upholstery is on-trend right now due to the return to the Art deco revival. I love these bar stools with the Burnt Orange upholstery . The Heather barstool comes with a wide range of upholstery and base finishes , have a look at the Green Palm Leaf upholstery too www.cultfurniture.com

Finally don't forget the all important details.

Look at your door handles, they need to compliment the overall scheme, good interior design is all about the details, these handles add to the Industrial, clean lines of the scheme.

Be experimental, use raw materials on walls as panels, for example this plywood would work well and could offer an interesting solution in this scheme for built in stor-age.

I have used a deep teal blue on the walls.

Stiffkey Blue by Farrow and Ball, www. farrowandball.com is a warm rich shade that 10

Our Home

LAID BACK LUXE FINISH

The wall covering by Arte wallcoverings, www. arte-international.com adds texture to the walls, you don't need colour everywhere, keep it simple and concentrate on the individual pieces.

Are you looking to create a Luxe finish in your new room?

Start with your finishes. Look to use velvets, heavyweight wall coverings, metallics and oversized light fittings.

Contrast textures and patterns on your cushions, be bold, the key is to keep a common theme throughout with colour and texture to work with and compliment your scheme.

In this scheme I have specified a deep emerald green sofa with the brass metal base creating a striking centrepiece. Kits Balsam sofa in emerald green www.casone.com

Finally this show stopping chandelier, find similar at John Lewis, www.johnlewis.com will add dra-ma and glamour to your pared back room.

I have specified a sideboard with the textured brass metal panels sitting on a simple frame . The Safavieh Eleni Brass Sideboard , www. houzz.co.uk, will add warmth and work well with the luxe theme.

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Our Home

SIDEBOARD STORY

Middle left: Used in an industrial inspired room with strong shapes and textures this sideboard would work well with bold details and raw materials. Imagine it against an exposed brick wall , www.Made.com

The sideboard, yes, useful storage for all those bits that you want to hide away but don't ignore the impact that you can make in your room with a well chosen piece. The opportunity to really enhance your scheme lies with this, often overlooked, piece of furniture.

Middle right: Sleek, black and subtle to enhance a contemporary scheme. This sidebar is versatile and will work anywhere whatever your design style. Black as opposed to pale makes for a striking contrast too. Nina Sideboards www.bluesuntree.co.uk.

I have collated a collection of sideboards that I like and which would work with any scheme that you are looking to create in your home.

Bottom : Make the sideboard your centrepiece with this stunning finish . Ziggy Sideboard www.swooneditions.com

Top : I really love the simple neutrals on the cupboard doors and the teak frame. This sideboard has an updated Mid-Century style . A popular interior style, think 60’s retro wallpapers, introducing this sideboard would work well with the theme adding contemporary styling.

FINAL If you are planning to re design your room this autumn remember ‘the devil is in the detail’ as you start to research and create your scheme. Enjoy the process and the result of your efforts also!

Be bold !

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HOME DESIGN SERVICE

A prof es si onal an d f rie ndl y In te r i o r Desi gn ser v i c e i n yo ur ho me inc l uding : - A n ini tia l vi sit to d i scus s you r r eq u ir em e nts - A f u l l d e s ig n scheme i nclu din g re com m e nd a t ion f or fi n is he s , s of t f u r n i s h i ng s a nd a ccessories t o cre a te you r p e r f e c t s p a c e - A c o m p l e t e p roject ma na g e ment op ti on f rom s p e c ifi c a tions to c om p le tion

For more information, contact Jane at: jane@makespaceinteriors.co.uk 0 7 9 6 6 6 3 0 917 / 0 19 0 2 8 4 7 2 2 6

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STOURBRIDGE

APPLIANCE GIVEAWAY WITH ALL KITCHENS OVER £3500 T & C's Apply

Visit our branch today at Stourbridge

Unit D, Stourbridge Industrial Estate, Mill Race Lane, Stourbridge DY8 1JN

www.benchmarxkitchens.co.uk 14

T: 01384 847200

STOURBRIDGE

APPLIANCE GIVEAWAY WITH ALL KITCHENS OVER £3500 T & C's Apply

At Benchmarx we can make your kitchen more than just a room Whether you’re a tradesman hunting for the perfect kitchen for a customer or you’re a consumer looking to have a new kitchen, Benchmarx are here for you.

Browse by colour, style or material for a truly bespoke experience.

From farmhouse chic to Scandinavian minimalism, Benchmarx is home to kitchens and accessories of impeccable quality. Elegant yet robust, Benchmarx kitchens are built to last and can be designed to suit your budget.

Over 180 nationwide branches and Part of Travis Perkins PLCe FIND US ON:

UNIT D, STOURBRIDGE INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, MILL RACE LANE, STOURBRIDGE DY8 1JN stourbribge@benchmarxkitchens.co.uk

01384 847200 www.benchmarxkitchens.co.uk 15

Dreamland

COMFORT SUPPLIERS SINCE 1976 Proudly presents

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PRODUCT LAUNCH PROMOTION 10% OFF EVERY MILLBROOK MATTRESS AND DIVAN SET

Dreamland are becoming the largest Stockist of Millbrook beds in the country.

Following the epic success with this luxury brand last month the staff from Dreamland visited Millbrook’s Southampton factory and showroom.

Whilst visiting Millbrook the passion for creating mattresses and divan sets full of natural fibres of the highest quality was evident. Millbrook have over 70 years of production heritage behind them and this is prevalent in the finished product, culminating to Millbrook having won the prestigious bed manufacture of the year award, awarded by the national bedding federation.

With everything in mind Dreamland have decided to expand their range of Millbrook to become the largest stockist in the entire country of these handmade beds. With beds ranging from a 1,000-spring unit all the way to 14,000 spring units. What ever your requirement for your new bed we are sure

that Millbrook make a bed for you. To launch the extended range Dreamland have 10% off every one of Millbrook’s products.

Millbrook beds take the pinnacle of Dreamlands bed selection, but there are over 100 other mattresses on display. Currently Dreamland are in there summer sale period so no matter what your budget, need or taste we are sure you will find your perfect bed in store. Dreamland operates 7 days a week, with a free delivery, assemble and disposal service – where they raise funds for the Mary Stevens hospice. There is also a free to use customer car park at the rear of the store.

Dreamland

COMFORT SUPPLIERS SINCE 1976 Dreamland, 23 Mill st, Brierley Hill, DY5 2RG 01384 74166 Dreamlandbedding.co.uk 17

Our Home

Your

Home

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If you are not sure of what you need then our technical department and in house design team will help you with any questions/queries you have.

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Balustrade U.K. Ltd are a family run company who have been in the business of manufacturing and fabricating of balustrades for over 32 years. We pride ourselves in giving the customer fantastic service and high quality goods.

Site Surveying Designing Drawings Installation Supply only

Please contact us on: 01384 252342 or email us at info@balustrade-uk.com

From receipt of an enquiry we will quote you within the same day, we offer next day delivery on most of our goods or you can collect from our factory premises same day. All our work is guaranteed to comply with U.K. Building Regulations.

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Unit Unit 33 Washington Washington Ind Ind Estate Estate Washington Washington Street Street ,, Dudley, Dudley, West West Midlands, Midlands, DY2 DY2 9PH 9PH 18 21

Our Home

STOOD THE TEST OF TIME We've been in this exact spot since 1934. This is how you know, when you choose us for your next carpet, you're not only choosing great stock, but you're also choosing an independent company who has many year's worth of experience and are able to give you the right advice every time.

The next time you're looking for new carpet or flooring, come down and see us and we can advise you on what your best options are We understand new flooring can be a big decision and financial investment, which is why we encourage all our customers whether they be commercial or residential - to get in touch with us and talk to one of our many members of experienced and knowledgeable staff.

There are many ways to do so; visit us in-store, call us, or send us an email via sales@rowecarpets.com

every carpet tells a story . . .

alternative ooring

Green Street, Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY10 1JF

T: 01562 820821 E: sales@rowecarpets.com www.rowecarpets.com 19

Our

Home Strongbow borne •

NEW DISPLAY ON SHOW FREE DELIVERY AND REMOVAL OF OLD PRICE MATCH POLICY

25% OFF

ood win

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High Street, Stourbridge

01384 394176

Family run for over 90 yrs

i

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FREE customer car park at rear 20

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MAKING YOU HOME SMARTER

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Our Home

BATHROOM TRANSFORMATION “We love the new bathroom, it all works so well. The shower is lovely and spacious and the drench head and additional hand held head makes showering a pleasure. We also have lots more storage than we had before, says Jean.

“Roman Bathrooms took care of everything, even supplying the gorgeous Karndean flooring. The fitters were meticulous and we were kept informed of progress at every stage of the installation.

Everyone that comes to visit says how beautiful it all is - we could not be more pleased.”

It is always good to see a customer come back to Roman Bathrooms but it is not often that they return after a break of 30 years, as was the case with Jean and Richard!

“We saw the Roman Bathrooms vans in the area and decided to visit the showroom,” says Jean. “With so many lovely displays, it was great to have the opportunity to touch and feel the products we were interested in.”

The couple wanted to replace the bath with a large, modern shower and were delighted with the ideas that we were able to input to make the best use of the rest of the space.

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R

ROMAN BATH R O O M S • K I T C H E N S • T ILE S

AWARD WINNING DESIGNS For almost 30 years we have been creating individually designed luxury bathrooms. Our team of tradesmen will carry out your renovation with great attention to detail delivering peace of mind and the outstanding customer service you receive will ensure your complete satisfaction.

To arrange a personal consultation please visit www.romanbathrooms.co.uk

110 - 111 High Street, Blackheath B65 0EG 23 Telephone 0121 561 4374 • email info@romanbathrooms.co.uk

PE HIS CA T N! ES NG M YI TU PA AU

Extend your living space.

FREE design visit? Your place or ours... please call or visit your local showroom - open 7 days.

Styles that very, standards that don’t!

Kidderminster Showroom Worcester Road Kidderminster DY10 1JR

Worcester Showroom 36 Carden Street Worcester WR1 2AT

Tel: 01562 814994

Tel: 01905 888320

WWW.5STARWINDOWS.CO.UK 24

Our

Using Witley Direct To Transform Your Home With over 35 years experience in manufacturing educational and office furniture, Witley Jones brings you an innovative and exciting new dimension for home office and fitted bedroom furniture – Witley Direct. Drawing on highly skilled in-house manufacturing and design teams, Witley Direct offers you the chance to liven up your home – from a new bright and vibrant bedside cabinet, to a luxurious fitted home office.

Home

Witley Direct @witleydirect @witleydirect

provide you with detailed 2D and 3D drawings (and a quotation) for you to see how your ideas will look. With your approval, a home survey will take place where every detail is double checked before their highly skilled manufacturing team (based in Worcestershire) proceed.

At a time to suit you, the Witley Direct installation team will visit you with your new furniture and, with precision and care, help turn your ideas in to reality and transform your bedroom, home After an initial enquiry, a free non-obligation office or an awkward, neglected space. home consultation with one of the design team takes place at a time to suit you. They will work Contact now, for an informal discussion or with you to establish your vision for your home to proceed with a home visit from one of the and decipher the best storage solutions to cater design team on: W.www.witleydirect.co.uk, for your lifestyle. Following the visit, Witley E.enquiries@witleydirect.co.uk, T. 01299 828888.

Direct’s design team then runs with the idea to

LIVEN UP YOUR HOME Witley Jones brings you an innovative and exciting new dimension for home office and fitted bedroom furniture.

• Home offices, fitted bedrooms and storage solutions • 35 years’ experience • Free design and consultation service • Custom built • Locally manufactured • Family- run business

01299 828888 / 07785 613366

enquiries@witleydirect.co.uk www.witleydirect.co.uk 25

Our Home

GAROLLA: A GARAGE DOOR COMPANY YOU CAN RELY ON Garolla is revolutionising the roller garage door industry. With impeccable products and unbeatable customer service, upgrading your home has never been easier. The UK’s largest roller garage door installers, Garolla have local fitters across the country ready to transform your home and give your garage a new lease of life.

Manufactured by hand, every roller garage door is created with your home in mind. Choose from a stunning selection of 18 colours to perfectly match your garage door with your own personal style. From classic colours to something a little more vibrant, Garolla is guaranteed to have the right garage door for you.

Installed in just a few hours, your new garage door will be ready to use immediately. Your local fitter will also remove your old garage door and tidy as they work, making the entire process as quick and convenient as possible.

Made from strong aluminium, a Garolla garage door is easy to use and saves valuable space within your garage. The door neatly tucks away, allowing you to use every inch of your garage as there are no large swinging doors to worry about. Once installed, Garolla roller garage doors are operated using a wireless remote control so you can access your garage from the comfort of your car.

For a free, no-strings-attached quote that is inclusive of measuring, fitting and VAT, head over to www.garolla.co.uk or call the friendly customer care team on 0800 468 1982 for more information.

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27

R N COX PA I N T E R

PA I N T E R

&

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D E C O R AT O R

D E C O R AT O R

Experienced painter & decorator for over 30 years Reliable & excellent tradesman

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07970 936640 undercoot@gmail.com 28

Our Crossword

CROSSWORD

Across

Down

6 Relinquish a throne (8) 8 Tibetan oxen (4) 9 Mayonnaise (5,8) 10 Expert in atmospheric conditions (13) 14 Rebirth of the soul in a new body (13) 17 Meteorologist (13) 20 Unknown (4) 21 Freeze (8)

1 Turkish currency (4) 2 Outlaw (6) 3 Breakfast food (6) 4 Power of vision (8) 5 Related by blood (4) 7 Blind system of writing (7) 11 Lack of variety (8) 12 Belonging to us (3) 13 Exhibitionist (4-3) 15 Prejudice against old people (6) 16 Baby's feeding bottle cap (6) 18 Sicilian volcano (4) 19 Clarets (4)

Answers for May/June19 Across: 7 Armoured, 8 Atom, 9 Amass, 10 Regatta, 12 Slider, 13 Abash, 15 Cue, 16 Death, 18 Resign, 20 Lanolin, 23 Lever, 25 Sets, 26 Academic.

Down: 1 Trembled, 2 Mossad, 3 Art, 4 Edge, 5 Sahara, 6 Holt, 11 Arch, 13 Aero, 14 Hygienic, 17 Arouse, 19 Sweden, 21 Abel, 22 Iraq, 24 Rat.

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For personalised luxury, look no further.

Award-winning specialist Classic Collection Holidays is celebrating more than 30 years in travel. It is renowned for its personalised luxury holidays at competitive prices. Our friendly and knowledgeable reservations team enjoy working with the travel exper ts at Destina Travel to create a holiday that’s perfect for you.

We have a range of destinations: the Mediterranean, Lakes & Mountains, North Africa, Dubai, Bermuda, Mexico and the Caribbean. We offer specialist holidays from family to adult-only, and for those looking for a more cultural experience we have luxury European city breaks, Uniworld boutique river cruises and elegant rail journeys.

We offer a wide choice of four and five star hotels and two and multicentre holidays. Private transfers, or car hire if preferred, are included in all our holidays, along with departures from numerous UK airports. Our holidays are 100% financially protected and our price promise ensures that you receive the best value for money for your holiday.

For more information contact Destina Travel, 109 Worcester Road, Hagley, Stourbridge, West Midlands. DY9 0NG or call 01562 883795 30

YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL SPECIALIST From our welcoming store in Hagley, our dedicated travel experts can plan a completely bespoke experience or find the perfect package holiday for you.

Destina by Good Travel has been organising extraordinary holidays for over 40 years.

We’re dedicated to upholding our hard-won reputation for delivering the best in luxury travel combined with excellent customer service.

Our collection of holiday types includes everything from relaxing beach holidays and honeymoons to safari adventures, cruises, city breaks, escorted tours and much more.

At Destina the only limit is your imagination!

FOR FURTHER INSPIRATION WHY NOT POP IN, EMAIL US, GIVE US A CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE 109 Worcester Rd, Hagley, Stourbridge, West Midlands - DY9 0NG

01562 883795 enquiry@destinatravel.co.uk www.destinatravel.co.uk

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OVER 100 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Our Travel

Lanzarote

– César Manrique’s Island

by Rebecca Underwood, Travel Journalist centre and was constructed in 1966. The partially collapsed volcanic lava tunnel, which was formed by the eruption of the Volcán de la Corona 4,000 years ago, covers a distance of six kilometres and leads out to the sea. Visitors to the site explore the caverns within the volcanic walls by following a spiral staircase, which leads down to a cafeteria and bar area and there is a small museum with exhibits including interactive features and a video with information on the world’s active volcanoes and striking images of lava flow. Descending further, and a beautiful natural lake inhabited by a number of tiny albino crabs, a species unique to the island, comes into view. By following a meandering path, beside the lake and with the daylight flooding the area, the visitor is above the ground within a garden of lush palm trees bursting with colourful bougainvillea surrounding a stunning pool.

Pausing for a breather and sitting on one of the white benches I contemplated on Manrique and his extraordinary talent.

Lanzarote, one of the Spanish Canary Islands, is located 125 kilometres off the northern coast of Africa and covers 326 square miles.

This firmly established tourism destination continues to attract an increasing number of independent travellers keen to explore its natural volcanic beauty, captured by César Manrique, the gifted abstract artist, sculptor and architect who was born in Arrecife, the island’s capital, in 1919.

At the age of 25 Manrique moved to Madrid, graduated from the San Fernando Royal Academy of Fine Arts, and then travelled extensively. His talents were duly recognised and his works were displayed in a host of international art exhibitions including New York’s Guggenheim Museum. Manrique left New York in 1966 and returned to Lanzarote at a time when local authorities were developing its tourism industry. He was highly influential in the promotion of sustainability, dedicated to protecting Lanzarote’s natural heritage and culture and he designed a number of attractions merging nature and art. These unique sites are Lanzarote’s most popular spots for visitors.

To learn more, I visited Manqrique’s residence, which is located on Calle Jorge Luis Borges in Tahíche and is now a museum.This mesmerising home, built over five volcanic bubbles, reflects a captivating fusion of contemporary design and the natural environment. Built within a

Manrique’s first project, Jameous Del Agua, located in Haría, is an exceptional cultural 32

Our Travel warren of underground spaces and tunnels, created by molten lava, the site includes an exquisite turquoise swimming pool, which was constructed in a buried space, and the relaxation areas create a feeling of absolute tranquillity. Manrique’s studio, at ground level, features fine examples of his works and the enormous windows saturate the interior with natural light affording breath taking views of the surroundings.

The César Manrique Foundation, established in 1982 and based at his home, continues to oppose the construction of high-rise properties, ensures that there are no unsightly billboards distracting the eye from natural surroundings and encourages the island’s residents to paint their properties in bright colours. There is little doubt that Manrique’s influence has been rewarded as Lanzarote was recognised as a Unesco biosphere reserve in 1993, only one year after he died.

HomeAway villa's master bedroom volcano route, as visitors are not permitted to walk through the park, ensuring its protection.

Throughout the journey, passengers are richly rewarded with astonishing sights of the solidified lava fields, vast areas covered with black and copper coloured sand, and the eerie shapes of volcanic rock formations. Islote de Hilario (the black volcano) soars 510 metres into the sky and bathed in the golden hues of the morning sun, I was enthralled by Mother Nature’s beauty.

Another popular attraction is the Parque Nacional de Timanfaya, named after the island’s only active volcano and one of the core areas of the biosphere reserve covering an area of 51 square miles. The last eruptions took place in the 18th and 19th centuries and the core temperature, caused by a constantly baking magma 4 kilometres below the surface, ranges from 100 to 600 centigrade at a depth of 43 feet.

At the end of my adventure, and with the smell of sulphur in my nostrils, I stopped off at El Diablo, the park’s restaurant, and after admiring the stunning views, I went inside to see the lava stove, which is a hole in the ground with a cast iron grill on the top and I viewed my fish luncheon cooking, immersed in the geothermal heat. Savouring the succulent flavours I glanced out of the window and noticed a member of staff demonstrating nature’s geothermal force by pouring a bucket of water into the ground, which instantly created a geyser of exploding steam. He was immediately greeted with hearty cheers and spontaneous applause from a captivated audience.

I arrived at Timanfaya early in the morning and embarked on the coach tour to follow the

For brave souls keen to get up close and personal with a volcano, Parque De Los Volcanes, which surrounds the Parque Timanfaya, offers a 3 kilometre trail towards the interior of the volcano. The solidified lava features encrusted Olivine crystals; a green coloured stone, known as peridot,

HomeAway villa's lounge 33

Our Travel dining area, it was just the ticket.

which has been discovered in meteorites and is used in local jewellery. Due to the harsh habitat there is a shortage of indigenous creatures in the area but beware of any lurking Death’s Head Hawkmoths, which have a human skull shaped pattern on the thorax, as it is said that they bring misfortune. Bird lovers will be enchanted by the opportunity to spot common kestrels, the Hoopoe, Berthelot’s pipit, Southern Grey Shrikes and the Little Egret.

Featured on the HomeAway website, this old Canarian finca (a typical, traditional property), offers high ceilings with pine wood beams and varnished wooden flooring and is located in the Los Mojones area of Puerto del Carmen; only a ten minute walk to the sandy beach.

Furnishings are contemporary; the lounge features plump, comfortable sofas and foot stools and a huge television with more than enough stations to keep fully informed of news overseas. Every appliance and gadget is provided and the kitchen is ideal for those capable of rustling up some tempting home cooked meals. Alas, my skills are lacking in that area and I headed for the local supermarket, only a short stroll away. That evening as I munched on my meal of freshly baked bread with slivers of cold meats and goat's cheese and accompanied by a tipple of Rubicon Moscatel I raised my glass in honour of César Manrique and reflected on his words; 'I want to extract harmony from the earth to unify it with my feeling for art'.

Another popular spot for hikers is the 6.6 mile trail from El Golfo, a small fishing village, to Charco de los Clicos, also called the Green Lagoon, which lies within an inactive volcano.

The vivid green colour is as a result of the Ruppia Maritima algae and the striking hues contrasting with the blue sky is unforgettable.

Following my arduous explorations I was more than ready to experience the highest levels of comfort and privacy and I stayed in a secluded villa, which features three spacious bedrooms, and the heated, south facing, outdoor pool measuring 8x5 metres, which is surrounded by comfortable sun loungers, provided the ideal spot for an afternoon snooze and with an enormous patio, a barbecue, and a sheltered

There is no doubt that Manrique achieved his objective and Lanzarote remains devoted to him.

Jameos del Agua 34

Our Travel

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Images, excluding accommodation, courtesy of Turismo Lanzarote and the Fundación César Manrique.

HomeAway villa's pool 35

Our Food & Drink

WINDSOR CASTLE LAUNCH NEW CRAFT BREWERY In 2004 John packed in the printing, went off to brewery school, pulled on his wellies & transformed the print works into a brewing haven following in the footsteps of his great, great grandfather Thomas back in Oldbury in the late 18th Century.

Inspired by family heritage, tradition & Emily & Gareth Bedford’s love for craft beer they have launched a brand new craft brewery located behind their pub The Windsor Castle Inn, Lye. Print Works to Brewery to Print Works Brewery!

Emily’s father & Grandfather Jack & John Sadler started the family printing & publishing business at number 7 Stourbridge road, now The Windsor Castle Inn & Brewery, when the printing industry was booming in the early 80’s.

Since then John’s son Chris has grown the original brewery & moved it on from its smaller beginnings at The Windsor Castle inn leaving room for a new craft brewery for the family to get creative with!

Emily, inspired by her family’s creativity & passion for brewing beer has continued the tradition by creating this brand new small craft brewery, producing small batches of craft beer to serve in her & her husbands pub The Windsor Castle Inn. Expect an exclusive selection of craft beers packed full of flavour from some of the best English hops & malt available with some extra special limited edition experimental brews from time to time.

The first brew will be available to enjoy at the bar at The Windsor Castle by the end of September.

We are all so excited to get the brewery up & going and can’t wait for the first pint to pulled!

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NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR THE CHRISTMAS SEASON Celebrate with us

WHETHER IT’S A LARGE CHRISTMAS WORKS PARTY OR AN INTIMATE FESTIVE MEAL GET IN TOUCH TO BOOK YOUR PERFECT CELEBRATION LIVE MUSIC EVERY SATURDAY FESTIVE GIN TASTING EXPERIENCES ARE BACK THIS CHRISTMAS BY POPULAR DEMAND

7 Stourbridge Road, Stourbridge DY9 7DG

01384 897809 www.windsorcastleinn.co.uk 37

Our Food & Drink

Recipes

By Mike Whitehurst

LEMON POSSET Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

EQUIPMENT

600ml double cream

Heavy based pan

150g caster sugar

Sieve

2 lemon

Zester

Punnet of Blueberries

6 glasses

6 Oat biscuits

Icing sugar duster

Handful of salted pistachios

Board and knife

Icing sugar

Juicer Measuring jug Scales Bowl

METHOD Carefully boil the cream in the pan then turn down the heat to simmer. Zest the lemon then halve and juice, strain and set aside.

Stir in the sugar to dissolve and then add the lemon juice. Add the lemon juice a bit at a time tasting the cream as you go to your taste. Allow the cream to simmer for about 4 minutes and then pour into a jug then pour into the glasses. Allow to cool and then place in the fridge to set for at least 6 hours.

When your ready to serve take the possets out of the fridge and share the punnet of blueberries between the glasses, add pistachios then crush a biscuit over each one finishing with a dusting of icing sugar.

If you like you can replace one lemon with an orange and swap the blueberries and biscuit for chocolate brownie chunks and honeycomb.

For the extra recipes please email mike@takefood.co.uk

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Our Food & Drink

HONEYED BALSAMIC PORK AND CHORIZO BROCHETTES with baked sweet potato, spinach salad and creme fraiche serves 4

INGREDIENTS 800g pork loin 2 medium size red onions 1 courgette 16 cooked new potatoes 1 chorizo ring 100ml balsamic vinegar 50ml of honey 4 garlic cloves finely chopped 4 sprigs of thyme Smoked paprika Creme fraiche 50g basil 150g spinach 50g coriander 2 Gem lettuce Bag of Spinach Pack of Radish 4 Spring onions 4 Sweet potato 1 pointed red pepper Olive oil Lemon juice Maldon sea slat

Dice the pork loin into 1 inch dice, slice the red onions into 16 wedges the courgette into 8 chunks and slice the chorizo into 16 chunks. In a small pan add the honey, balsamic, thyme and garlic cloves, gently warm and pour over the meat and vegetables then sprinkle over the paprika. Get your hands in the bowl and give everything a good mix then leave until the next day in the fridge.

When you're ready to cook the brochettes take them out of the fridge and evenly share the pieces between the amount of skewers you have. Place the sweet potato on a baking tray in the oven for about an hour (depends on size)

EQUIPMENT Chopping board Skewers BBQ or Ribbed skillet pan / Oven Colander Mixing bowl Brush Tongs

If you’re using wooden skewers soak them in water over night so they don’t burn up quickly on the grill. Season and grill the brochettes on all sides until thoroughly cooked through and serve immediately.

USEFUL INFO Marinate Grill time Course

Slice the gem lettuce in half and take out the stalk then wash thoroughly with the spinach and shake in a colander to dry off.

Thinly slice the radish and red pepper and toss with the fresh herbs and lettuce. Dress with olive oil and lemon juice.

24 hours 12 minutes BBQ / Dinner

If you don’t have a barbecue you can cook them on the shelf in the oven on 200oC with a tray underneath to catch the juices.

Use the juices afterwards to brush the brochettes giving them a nice shiny glaze. Season again with salt and cracked black pepper.

Serve with the baked sweet potato and creme fraiche.

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Roe Deer Town & Village Life ad.qxp_Roe Deer Town & Village Life ad 06/08/2019 10:40 Page 1

Welcome to the Roe Deer

Sitting on the outskirts of Wordsley, Stourbridge, the Roe Deer was once a family home called Lawnswood House. Built during the reign of Kind George III in 1813 to 1816 it contains many beautiful attributes of the Regency style. Wonderful high ceilings and huge casement windows that flood the rooms with natural light, a grand staircase and rooms to squirrel away in next to stunning fireplaces or overlooking the historic garden. e building lends itself beautifully as a pub and now has a large bar at the heart of the building, packed with an ever-growing collection of gins and malts, an array of ever-changing local ales and a fine wine collection that complements our daily menu.

Outside there is a stone terrace to the front, which enjoys sunsets framed by the grand old trees, and views out across the lawn and the fields beyond. Upstairs, enjoying the same views you will find a private dining room which will comfortably seat 14, perfect for larger family gathering or smaller business meeting.

Our menus have their roots in modern British cooking, with a hint of the more exotic about them. You will always find some hearty pub classics alongside some lighter lunchtime options. ey change often to reflect the seasons and are loaded each morning onto our website so you may whet your appetite before you even arrive.

Jon and the team are on hand to welcome you, your family and friends and even your dog. We hope to see you soon.

e Roe Deer, Wordsley. Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY7 5QJ Tel: 01384 958 640 • Email: roedeer@brunningandprice.co.uk

www.roedeerpub.co.uk 40 36

CHRISTMAS FAYRE MENU (AVAILABLE 1ST-24TH DECEMBER ONLY)

**LUNCH TUESDAY-SATURDAY TWO COURSES FOR £16.95, THREE COURSES FOR £19.95 DINNER TUESDAY-THURSDAY TWO COURSES FOR £20.95, THREE COURSES FOR £22.95 DINNER FRIDAY-SATURDAY TWO COURSES FOR £22.95, THREE COURSES FOR £25.95 SUNDAY LUNCH TWO COURSES FOR £20.95, THREE COURSES FOR £22.95

PRIVATE OFFICE PARTIES CATERED FOR IN OUR PRIVATE DINING SUITE WITH PRIVATE BAR, BATHROOMS AND TERRACE FOR UP TO 45 PEOPLE

01562 883260 enquiries@thefourstones.co.uk

The Four Stones Restaurant · Adams Hill · Clent · DY9 9PS

www.thefourstones.co.uk 41

Our

Education

IS YOUR CHILD WORRIED ABOUT STARTING ‘BIG SCHOOL’?

Former primary teacher Catherine Lynch of PlanBee is here to help you through this difficult transition.

If your child isn’t starting in Reception until September 2020, you will have plenty of time to liaise with the school to set up either a home or transition visit.

Moving into a new classroom can be scary and take a bit of getting used to for even the most confident child. For lots of children, moving into Reception will be their first time in a school environment

But if ‘big school’ is looming this September, what can you do to help your child copy positively with this educational rite of passage?

Be positive about this transition; your child will pick up on your worries, so adopting an upbeat attitude to this exciting stage in their life is key.

But whether they are moving from a private nursery, from being at home full-time or being in a nursery class attached to a school, they will have to get used to new adults, peers, routines, expectations and the large school setting. And that’s a big ask for a little one.

Listen to your child, reassure them and try to understand what lies at the heart of their worry. Reassure them that you will support them, and don’t try to dismiss their concerns as unimportant or unfounded.

Hopefully, the school you’ve chosen for your child will have carried out a home visit. These are a great opportunity for the adults working with the Reception children, the children themselves and their parents to get to know one another in an environment where the child is more likely to feel confident.

Arrange playdates with other children that will be in their class; lots of parents use social media to create these connections.

By half-term, your little one should be starting to settle and enjoying the challenges of this new stage in their life. Good luck!

A transition visit may also have taken place.

First, the Reception teacher visits the child in their current nursery setting and meets their current keyworker. Then the new Reception children visit their new classroom for a few hours. Both occasions give the children and staff the opportunity to learn about each other. The visit to the Reception class lets the children learn where their coat peg is, where the toilets are, what toys there are and who is in their class.

Catherine Lynch is a former primary school teacher, now working for lesson-planning and resources experts PlanBee. If you need any help, or have a question for us, please get in touch us directly: info@ planbee.com

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Our

Education

WELCOME TO WINTERFOLD The happiness of our children lies at the heart of everything we do at Winterfold. Each child has the opportunity to excel academically and is encouraged to develop a sense of adventure and achievement in many different directions.

Winterfold is a non-selective school and there are no formal entry requirements or tests. We accept children at any age, provided we have a place available. We believe that we have a duty to educate any child who wishes to come to us, if we feel that they will benefit from their time at the School.

The excellent facilities at the School cannot fail to impress. More than this, is the family friendly feel of the School which is central to our ethos. The children are learning for life and we aim to give them the opportunities and environment that they need to help them grow in confidence and become engaging, successful and resourceful young people. The children love coming to school and are very proud of their achievements.

We take pride in the fact that we truly know every child and ensure that they achieve their potential in every aspect of school life.

Our children develop a sense of purpose, determination and confidence, due to the wide variety of activities in which they take part. They leave us as well-rounded individuals who have become good citizens of the future.

Don’t just take our word for it, come and see for yourself.

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Our

Education

BROMSGROVE SCHOOL – HAPPY AND SUCCESSFUL At Bromsgrove, we believe pupils are happiest when they are succeeding. We offer an all-round education, combining academic excellence with a richness of opportunity. Pupils engage enthusiastically with knowledge, embrace new ideas and are intellectually stimulated. We pride ourselves on the outstanding opportunities available, both inside and outside the classroom, whether at Nursery, Pre-Prep, Preparatory or Senior School.

Facilities at Bromsgrove have been improved beyond measure in the last decade. All sections of the School benefit from state-of-the-art teaching areas. A world-class Performing Arts Centre, comprising a new live performance venue and theatre, a large drama studio and an entire suite of new music classrooms, recording studios and practice rooms was opened in 2017. Music lessons

start in Year 2 with the Strings Initiative and pupils go on to group and individual successes in music.

Outside areas are extensive with beautiful, landscaped grounds and dedicated sports areas blending seamlessly. There is Forest School for the younger children and pupils of all ages enjoy outdoors learning spaces.

But don’t be distracted by the School’s breathtaking facilities, nestled in over 100 magnificent acres. The heart of Bromsgrove’s success is its people. Over 1,600 pupils, boys and girls, day and boarding, national and international, aged 3-18, are what give the School its vibrancy, with a staff of some of the nation’s finest educators, coaches and caregivers - passionate professionals, as invested in your child as you are.

We welcome individual visits so that you can see for yourself what Bromsgrove has to offer.

Open Mornings REGI

Founded 1553

FLAIR DISCIPLINE ACADEMIC RIGOUR

Pre-Preparatory (ages 3 - 7): Saturday, 21st September Prep School (ages 7 - 13): Saturday, 28th September Senior School (13+): Saturday, 12th October

Please contact Admissions for details or book online bromsgrove-school.co.uk 01527 579679 admissions@bromsgrove-school.co.uk 45

“The school is highly successful in fulfilling its aim to produce pupils with strong creativity, morality, motivation and self-discipline, who enjoy learning.” ISI Inspection Co-educational, Day & Boarding

950 pupils aged 13-18 720 pupils aged 3 - 13

Our Weddings

WEDDING INSPIRATION WITH COUNTRY BASKETS Country Baskets offer everything you need to ensure that your big day is even better than you could have ever imagined. With over 30,000 products to browse at your leisure, including an unbeatable range of beautiful artificial flowers and a huge selection of affordable glassware and pottery we are certain you will find something that matches your wedding theme perfectly.

artificial flowers that will work wonderfully with a rustic theme. Think textured blooms like Hydrangeas and Roses in muted shades of blush pink, green and ivory.

Finish off this look with some beautiful foliage, with our extensive range of greenery we are certain you will find something that takes your fancy. Add this to your bouquet to create a whimsical, romantic, and natural feel.

When you’re planning your wedding, a great theme really does bring the look and feel of your day together. Rustic weddings are always a popular wedding theme choice, especially with couples who want a cool, relaxed vibe on their big day.

We have eight fabulous stores in the UK, so there is no excuse not to come and browse our ever-growing range of great value products.

Why not come and take a look? Explore our artificial flowers and greenery, baskets, homeware, wedding, glassware, pottery, craft, and seasonal products; we guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Beautiful wedding stationery sets the tone for the event - there's nothing like receiving a gorgeous invitation in the post to build the excitement for your guests, it also gives a great idea of the style of event you are planning.

Our new stationery collection features a palette of sage green and rose pink, adorned with clusters of gorgeously detailed flowers.

This soft and artistic range is perfect for the bohemian bride.

Did you know that we are also online? Our website has a lovely inspirational area, featuring blog posts, craft and floristry projects, in-store floral demonstration dates and all the latest trend information!

Visit www.countrybaskets.co.uk

Graciously guide your guests around your wedding venue with our stunning wedding signs and use our Bride & Groom signs to show where you newlyweds will be sitting. Not only do these wooden plaques look great for the day of the wedding but these can be hung in your home as a keepsake of your special day.

Visit Us: Country Baskets, Gibbs Road, Lye, Stourbridge, Birmingham DY9 8SY Follow Us: – countrybaskets – @countrybaskets

For a love that lasts a lifetime, choose flowers that do too! We have an abundance of stunning

– @countrybaskets 46

www.countrybaskets.co.uk

Great Quality

Great Value!

Discover inspiration across Artificial Flowers & Greenery Floral Supplies | Baskets | Dried Vases & Glassware | Foam | Craft Wedding | Seasonal & MORE!

Find us in Stourbridge!

Gibbs Road, Lye, Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY9 8SY

In-store Voucher

20%Everything OFF CODE:D346

Voucher valid until 31st October 2019 Country Baskets cannot accept responsibility for lost or misplaced vouchers. This voucher must be used in-store only.

Not valid in conjunction with any other promotion. Original voucher must be present at the point of purchase and cannot be used in part transactions. Single use only.

47

Our Weddings

RELAXED WEDDING AFFAIR It’s All About The Hen Do!

seems to be no rulebook about what or how you feed your guests. The only thing that you must assure is that there is enough food to go around and that it is easily accessible.

The great thing about weddings today is that anything goes! Gone are the days when you were tied to tradition and had to have the seated wedding breakfast followed by speeches, toasts and cake cutting. Of course you can still do all this and done correctly this produces a beautiful and classical structure for your wedding day. However, what with the ever swelling guest lists and attendees from a varied mix of race and culture now all too common at weddings, Brides and Grooms across the country are opting for a more relaxed affair rather than struggling against the confinements of tradition.

If you are considering a non-traditional style of wedding food then here are a few tips and considerations which hopefully will help you find the right style for you and your budget!

Anyone for Cocktails?

This style of affair can be very glamorous and classy however not necessarily a cheaper option, so don’t forgo the three course meal thinking you’ll save money. One of the main factors here is the venue you have chosen. A cocktail wedding requires a certain style of furniture which the venue you have booked many not have. Poseur tables, bar stools and indeed more bars may need to be hired to style the space and create the right atmosphere which will heavily impact on your budget.

Over the last few years communal feasting is now considered a perfectly acceptable, and let’s face it, novel way of feeding your guests, with big shared platters of food served on tables for friends and family to tuck into together. There has also been an increase in the “grazing style” of receptions such a cocktail & canapes, picnics or even gourmet BBQs all delivering non-fussy yet scrumptious food while your guests can mingle to their hearts delight!

Make sure there is enough staff to make and supply the cocktails as it will take some time for them to get around to everyone. Make it easy for people to help themselves with trays of cocktails or simple flutes of fizz positioned at various points in the room so that people don’t have to queue.

So in reality, what with the acceptance of such a relaxed style of food service there now 48

Our Weddings a note of this on your invites so your guests aren’t left wondering if they should be fasting or loading up their bellies before the event.

Keep in mind your guest list size. With a sitdown meal you will be restricted to numbers simply due to the number of tables and chairs the venue can hold. Stand up receptions such as cocktail-style weddings will allow for a larger numbers in the venue but you’ll consequently need to feed more people, so it might just cost the same as a seated meal in the end.

Best of Both Worlds

If you like the idea of a more relaxed format but think that canapes and cocktails wouldn’t quite deliver enough pomp & ceremony on the day then you could always merge the two styles. Have drinks and canapés served after your ceremony, giving your guests the opportunity to mingle, while you’re getting photos taken with your bridal party.

Canapes & Finger Food

Pricing will vary depending on your caterer of course. You have to consider the time of day your reception is being held as this will determine the quantity of food you will need to supply to your guests. Think about portions, if you were to put all the canapés allocated per guest on a plate, would it be enough to make a meal?

Then invite guests to a sit-down meal which can allow you to schedule in certain speeches, cutting of the cake etc. Why not try sharing platters if you want to keep it less formal.

Then have a roaming dessert with different buffet stations situated throughout the venue or even go back to served canapes for sweet nibbles. You can always have your cake served at one of these stations with tea and coffee available.

It may be an idea to have food points scattered around the venue for the guest’s arrival to avoid people pouncing on the first tray of canapes that appear. Create food stations for guests such as a charcuterie, or cheese plate here and there to enhance the supply of nibbles being circulated.

Occasional Seating

Cocktail style weddings are great for mingling but remember to supply occasional seating for the elderly and ladies in heels. Standing up in high heels for 8 hours will result in people kicking off their shoes (never good for wedding photography) or even going home early as they are in too much pain.

If you have elderly guests attending, they will be looking for comfortable seating options to mingle quietly rather than standing up all evening. A selection of comfortable chairs and even sofas would be perfect especially when the disco is in full swing as people will need a breather!

Prepare Your Guests

Some guests may not have attended a cocktail style wedding before and therefore might be confused about what food will be served. It is always a good idea to make sure there is 49

Your first choice for mother of the bride and groom, cruise and evening wear. Stocking stunning outfits and matching accessories from British and International designers. Jan and her team are always on hand to ensure you look your best for any occasion.

Main shop open: Mon - Sat 9.45am - 4.45pm Hawkswood Lodge, Old High Street, Quarry Bank, West Midlands. DY5 2JR

Tel: 01384 565443 www.jantino.co.uk Sale shop open: Quarry Bank High St, opposite the main shop and is open: Mon - Thurs, 10 - 4.30pm, Friday 10-2pm Sat 10 - 4.30pm Huge savings on a stunning range of designer wear. Many wedding suits reduced by 70%.

22b High Street, Quarry Bank, West Midlands DY5 2JW

Tel: 07914 687630

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CocoRico Dress Agency

Stocking Nearly New Designer Dresses Shoes and Accessories at a Fraction of the Retail Value Whether your looking for something special or just fancy a browse, drop in to see Liz who can style you up!

Bring in your old Autumn clothes freshly laundered, and let us sell them for you!

OPEN HOURS

Tue - Fri 10.30am - 5pm Sat - 10am - 4pm

Tel: 01384 443775 80 Hagley Road, Stourbridge DY8 1QU

Clearance Rail with Fantastic Bargains 51

Hattention will be celebrating its 1st year of trading on the 9th October. To Celebrate we will be running a free raffle, special spot buys and cakes, nibbles and fizz will be flowing all day from 10am till 3pm, everyone is welcome.

The shop offers an array of footwear from casual pumps and transitional shoes/ boots to wedding sets which goes perfectly with the hat hire service the shop also offers. With over 150 hats to choose from in many colours and styles, you will be spoilt for choice.

As the Festive season starts to approach we have some amazing new designers, such as Estella Bartlett Bags and Soruka. Soruka is a Spanish company, that makes unique leather bags and purses from upcycled leather scraps, every piece is a one off. Hattention are also really proud to be the local stockist of Roka Bags as well as stocking a large selection of accessories such as scarves, gloves, hats and socks, the perfect gift is waiting here for you.

Caroline the Owner has always loved shopping and boutique style shops, ‘I love finding things that not everybody else has, I’m always looking for new suppliers so I can give my customers new and different products but at affordable prices’.

Over 150 Hats to Hire or Buy Large selection of Ladies Footwear and Bags Large selection of Accessories such as Scarves, Gloves, Hats and socks

112 Hagley Road, Stourbridge DY8 1QU

01384 52443138

WIN

£200 to spend on Joseph Ribkoff at Frox Competition: What new season stock will be in store?

Please email: hello@froxhire.co.uk Competition cut off date Monday 14th October

New Season Joseph Ribkoff Autumn Winter collection now available.

Great sale rail

Macmillan Coffee Morning

to be held on Tuesday 17th September (at Frox) 10:00am - 3.00pm

OPEN HOURS Sunday/Monday closed Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10-3.00pm Thursdays 10-1.00pm

froxhire.co.uk 53

01384 671969 / 07884 344855 110 Hagley Rd, Stourbridge DY8 1QU

Our Fashion

FUN KNITWEAR

By Michelle Barnett - Fashion Buyer

FUN KNITWEAR Bright thin knits are the perfect transition from Summer to Autumn. Update your knitwear this season with some fun logos/slogans and stripes. Wear them with jeans and smart trainers for an ideal casual but chic weekend outfit.

MONSOON £49 M&CO AW19 CAMPAIGN

CHINTI & PARKER £350

NEXT £25 HUSH £135

54

Our Fashion

M&CO AW19 CAMPAIGN

Oliver Bonas £45

OLIVER BONAS £45

CHINTI & PARKER £295

HUSH £85

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THIRD NEW RETAILER TO OPEN UP IN CORNBOW

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and gloom in the news about the fate of the high street against online competition, these latest brands show-ing their commitment to our town, demonstrate that nothing can truly compete with our real shopping ex-perience especially when it comes to value and the sense of community it brings."

A new B&M Bargains store is coming to the Corn-bow Shopping Centre in Halesowen. It is the third new retailer joining the centre as part of a ÂŁ1.2m investment.

Situated on the ground floor at the head of the Cornbow mall, B&M's new 10,000 ft2 store will replace New Look and Roman Orig-inals as well as two units which have been vacant for some time.

A spokesman for the Corn-bow Shopping Centre said: "As one of the UK's fastest growing variety and value retailers, B&M Bargains is set to bring top-brands at basement prices to the peo-ple of Halesowen which en-joys a catchment of 600,000 within a 30-minute drive time."

After three months of landlord works, it's antici-pated B&M will open 21st August 2019.

Adrian Oliver, director of Tansor, the owner of the Cornbow Shopping Centre, said: "This new store will fill an entire side of the ground floor block, some parts of which have been vacant for a while and it will benefit the whole cen-tre with its halo effect." "With all the doom

The other new retailers are Heron Foods and Costa Coffee - which is now open.

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Our Health

BETTER HEARING MADE SIMPLE to every moment we share. Being able to help my clients enjoy better hearing and share that experience with others is simply a pleasure"

Mrs. Jo Miller is the owner of LIFESTYLE HEARING SOLUTIONS and the clinic, Hear in Hagley. Jo Miller has over 30 years experience and actually started out wanted to be a Cardiologist but as soon as she had studied Medical Physics, she had a placement in Audiology and knew it was the only career for her.

Jo and the team offer the latest technology and a relaxed atmosphere to chat about your hearing journey over tea or coffee. Hear in Hagley is family owned and independent, offering bespoke solutions in a brand-new clinic with quality surroundings. The latest technology is available to all, with personalised, straightforward yet sophisticated hearing solutions. "

With an extreme passion for customer care and client well-being, Jo makes it her life purpose to provide excellent and appropriate hearing care to anyone who needs it. Jo has an experienced, calming and incredible approach to hearing care which has been commented on by many grateful patients over her many years in the profession.

Jo lives every day knowing she has made a difference to people's lives and that her patients have left her clinic with a smile on their face from better service and better choice all round. Jo will continue to use her endless experience and qualifications to ensure that every client is treated with the upmost respect and spoken to in real-life, human language.

" I decided to start Lifestyle Hearing Solutions after many years of working in both the NHS and for trusted, national retail hearing care providers.

My belief is that the customer should always come first. My aim is to focus on each client as an individual, consider their unique lifestyle and the impact their hearing loss is having on, not only them, but their family and friends. Everyday lives can be improved again and again through careful, well-managed hearing care. As an audiologist, I understand that as people, we all connect with one another and that is integral

If you would like to meet Jo in person, contact us today Contact: Mrs. Jo Miller Hagley clinic - 01562 884400 Mobile - 07483 157011 www.lifestylehearingsolutions.co.uk Ears@lifestylehearingsolutions.co.uk 58

59

Fast Access to Quality Healthcare Here at Ramsay Health Care we believe that every patient should be provided with professional healthcare advice; that’s why we offer complimentary advice sessions which give you the opportunity to meet some of our consultants that are experts in their specialty.

Upcoming Advice Sessions West Midlands Hospital, Colman Hill, Halesowen, West Midlands B63 2AH Cosmetic Surgery - 21st September with Mr Stern Women’s Health - 22nd August with Physiotherapy team

Our areas of expertise • • • • • •

Orthopaedics Opthalmology Cosmetic Surgery Varicose Veins Private GP Service General Medical Conditions

• • • • • • •

Men’s Health Women’s Health ENT Conditions Spine and Back Pain Podiatry Skin Concerns Physiotherapy

For more information please call:

01384 880 174

ramsayhealth.co.uk/events

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• • • • • •

General Surgery Cardiology Diagnostics Pain Management Sports Injury Urology

Are you considering any of the above?

Mr. Guy Sterne is a consultant plastic & cosmetic surgeon with busy surgical practises at The West Midlands Private Hospital in Halesowen, Spire Southbank Private Hospital in Worcester and at Nuffield Health in Wolverhampton.

A former Hunterian Professor and National Tutor for Plastic Surgery at The Royal College of Surgeons of England, Mr. Sterne has a national reputation. He has made consultative appearances on Embarrassing Bodies, the BBC and was featured in Tatler magazine’s Cosmetic Guide, as one of the country’s leading plastic surgeons.

Appointments: Call Jude on 07908 008895 Email: jude@guysterne.co.uk

West Midlands Private Hospital Halesowen

Spire Southbank Hospital Worcester

Lion Dental Centre Stourbridge

Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital

General cosmetic surgery website: www.consultantplasticsurgeon.co.uk Cosmetic breast surgery website: www.guysterne.co.uk

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Our Health

Consistency Builds Competence.

Competence Builds Confidence One of the hardest things to do when it comes to exercise and nutrition is getting started but to make those results stick, it is super important that whatever exercise you do, it becomes routine so you can become CONSISTENT at doing it!

Once you start to become more consistent, you begin to become more COMPETENT with your movements, your eating habits, which in turn will allow you build a solid base that will allow you to see results you want whether it be weight loss or getting fitter.

Once you become more and more competent and start seeing results, you will then become more and more CONFIDENT in everything you do. Physically and Mentally! Stay the course, enjoy the journey and you will reap the rewards!

How to get started with this? Find exercise that you love doing and make a plan that you can stick to day-day. Then the mini victories will turn into big victories!

If you feel you need help getting started? Why not try us out. Come and try us out for 7 days FREE to see if it is for you.

Jamie Evans

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63

Our Hair & Beauty

Nick and Royston's Diary Cheshire Polo Club Cheshire`s royalty was out in force for one of the summer seasons highlights, The Cheshire Polo. Held at The Cheshire Polo Club in Tarporley, Nick and Royston joined friends, including the cast of The Housewives to enjoy a Champagne reception on a beautiful summer’s day.

A stunning masque was the backdrop to an afternoon of full glamour, juicy gossip and gorgeous men on horses. All washed down with the delights from a fabulous gin bar with over 100 to choose from. An amazing day time with all their favourite friends.

The Northern Belle.

As a birthday treat for Nick, Joanne & Malcom Bridgwood, surprised them to a trip on The Vintage Northern Belle. Departing from Birmingham International, they travelled down to Weymouth, to enjoy the famous Sea Food Fare. After being seated at their elegant dining table, the steward served a delicious brunch with Bellini’s on the journey down. But ,although surrounded by breath-taking views, Royston decided he would have more pleasure entertain the other guests, with his own fun and frolics!

After exploring Weymouth and eating all the delicious sea food and ice creams on the beach, they still managed to enjoy a gourmet dinner and Champagne on the return journey. A great day with great friends!!!

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Our Hair & Beauty Marbella Marbs is always a favourite summer destination for Nick & Royston, as they love the parties, the shopping and the gorgeous people. So, it was great opportunity to join close friends Katie and Robbie Hubble for a long weekend and these glamourous couples experienced all that Puerto Banus offers.

Spending the days at the exclusive Nikki Beach and the evenings at the hottest restaurants and partying at the latest clubs, these fabulous four had an incredible time celebrating Nick`s special birthday in real style!!!!

South StaffordshireVolunteer Star Awards 2019 Royston was asked by Ann Ross, a fabulous client, if he would sponsor a very special event called the `Volunteer Star Awards. ` Always eager to support local organisations and charities, he immediately agreed do what he could to help the event that recognises local heroes that have changed their own lives or helped to change others in the local community.

The winners were announced at the Awards Evening held at Perton Golf Club, where Nick & Royston presented their category ÂŹ Volunteer Achievement in Self Developmentfor gaining a new skill or qualification that has changed their lives.

They were very proud to be asked to participate and with the achievements of all who attending that night and a BIG ` Thank you `Ann, for the opportunity to be there on that very special evening.

65

COLOUR AND CUT PACKAGES FROM £65 £30 FOR A CUT AND BLOW DRY

66

Visiting your workplace or home For further information call Jamie

07940 286 846

Based in Wolverhampton jaymiecee@gmail.com

g

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Our What’s On

Re-Take That

Peaky Blinders Night

Saturday 7 September

The UK's favourite Take That tribute returns to Wolverhampton. Bring the magic of the originals to life and dance the night away in style to songs such as "Relight My Fire", "Never Forget", and "Back for Good".

Premier, Restaurant and Hospitality tickets include access to entertainment from RE-Take That.

General admission tickets £11 Entertainment tickets from £25 www.wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk 01902 390 000

Fri 6 Sep - Sat 7 Sep Black Country Living Museum, Dudley 7pm-10.30pm £19.50 adults, £9.75 carers

Fri 13 Sep - Sat 14 Sep Black Country Living Museum, Dudley 7pm-10.30pm £19.50 adults, £9.75 carers Evening Events, advance-booking Adults only event. www.bclm.com Tel: 0121 520 8054

The events will take place on Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22 and there will be two a day which last three hours and include a three-course sit down meal.

There will be vegetarian options available as well as a couple of vegan and gluten free foods too.

The Brunch starts at 12pm and the Dinner starts at 7pm.

Dressing up is encouraged but if you're really not a fan you can still turn up in your normal clothing.

Tickets from £20.00 - £90.00

Smaller event this year. A celebration of village life focussing on the scarecrows and traditional games and crafts.

BIRMINGHAM The Botanical Gardens

68

Our

What’s On

Gentlemen's Evening Saturday 23 November

Sun 29 Sep 2019

After paying their dues in the famous Cavern Club in Liverpool and building their reputation in Hamburg, The Beatles unleashed their first single in the UK and went on to top the charts across the globe and change the world forever.

A highlight in Wolverhampton’s racing calendar. Get suited and booted this Gentlemen’s Evening and join us for our ‘best-dressed’ and ‘best-moustache’ competition. Premier, Restaurant and Hospitality tickets include access to afterracing entertainment from ‘Ska Britannia’

Backed by the National Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, All You Need Is Love will fill you with nostalgia, joy and wonderment as we pass through the greatest and most iconic hits of the Fab Four, taking us back to the heyday of Beatlemania.

General admission tickets £11 Entertainment tickets from £25 www.wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk 01902 390 000

Tickets from £31.50 The Alexandra, Suffolk Street Queensway, Birmingham B5 4DS 0844 871 3011

OUR LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE COMPETITION Family ticket for four people to give away for Some Like it Hip Hop at Birmingham Hippodrome

Just answer this question?

What was the original name of this production/film To answer please go to www.facebook.com/Ourlifestylemagazine/ Please like the page and answer the question in a comment

Performance on Friday 18th October 69

Our What’s On

MADNESS & JESS GLYNNE AT WOLVERHAMPTON RACECOURSE Over eighteen thousand visitors raced through the gates at Wolverhampton Racecourse this Summer, as the venue hosted three incredible outdoor concerts throughout August.

First to kick of the music month, were the stars of London’s West End and former stars from the smash hit musical ‘We Will Rock You’. They took centre stage on Sunday 25 August to perform a one-night spectacular tribute to Queen to over two thousand fans. Reminiscing all the greatest hits from one of the world’s greatest rock bands, it was a night not to be missed by any Queen supporter, and anyone wanting to soak up the last of summer nights and enjoy the bank holiday weekend.

The following Friday night welcomed the return of Wolverhampton’s annual Music Live fixture, and this year it was bigger and better than ever. Celebrating its seventh consecutive year, the event has become highly anticipated for both music fans and racegoers and is now a highlight in Wolverhampton’s racing calendar. Following the huge success of 2018, the event was once again spread over two consecutive days and welcomed over sixteen thousand visitors to enjoy the hottest ticket of the summer.

On Friday 30 August the venue was transformed into the ‘house of fun’ as Madness celebrated over 40 years of iconic music as they performed their full XL tour. The crowd headed over to Centre Course to enjoy a full

90-minute set which included all the greatest hits such as ‘It Must Be Love’ and ‘One Step Beyond’. The band took centre stage following a full evening of racing.

The excitement continued the following day as the racecourse hosted their most glamorous fixture of the year. Combining quality racing, fashion, colour and an International Superstar with the incredible atmosphere of Ladies Day, it was a fixture not to be missed. The day was bursting with glitz and glamour all around; from those taking part in the ‘Best-dressed Lady’ and ‘Mummy & Me’ competition, to relaxing at the gin, fizz and cocktail bars through to guests adding some sparkle into their day at the glitter stand.

Following a full card of racing, visitors joined the Centre Course Enclosure to party the night away in style to Jess Glynne as she performed a full set from the outdoor stage. Fans were in their element as they enjoyed smash hits ‘Hold My Hand’, ‘Don’t Be So Hard on Yourself’ and new single ‘One Touch’. A fabulous fixture filled with smiles, laughter and memories that will last forever.

Music Live will return to Wolverhampton Racecourse next summer, and artists will be announced at the beginning of 2020.

For upcoming raceday fixtures, Christmas parties and future events please visit wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk.

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celebrate the festive season in style at wolverhampton racecourse Enjoy a delicious three-course meal, live entertainment, resident DJ and much more at our racing and non-racing Christmas parties.

FROM

£57PE.R5SO0N PER

racing party nights Sat 7 th , Sat 14 th & Fri 20 th DECEMBeR

£44.95 PER PERS

ON

NON-racing party nights Fri 6th, Fri 13th & Sat 21st December

Book online at: WOLVERHAMPTON-RACECOURSE.CO.Uk 71

Our Our Pets Pets

A Healthy Diet Makes For Happy Pets!

Blacks Vets’ Consulting Nurse and Nutrition Advisor, Pauline Holloway, brings us the lowdown on dog and cat nutrition.

As the old saying goes, ‘you are what you eat’ and here at Blacks Vets, we know this certainly applies to our pets too! Just as with humans, there are many common conditions that can be influenced by diet and every month we see cases that have been significantly improved by changes to how pets are fed.

In my role as a Consulting Nurse, I am part of a team that holds regular check-ups for our Protect My Pet Club members.

This is our brilliant, money-saving club that provides preventative healthcare treatment such as vaccinations, boosters, flea and worming treatment, all at a pursefriendly price. As well as assessing your pet’s general health, our check-ups are a great opportunity to chat through any concerns you have with a member of the Blacks’ nursing team.

It is here that we often hear about issues that may be impacting on your pet’s quality of life. Perhaps you’ve noticed that your older dog is more reluctant to go for his usual walk or your cat doesn’t jump up to her favourite spot quite so readily? Maybe you’ve seen changes in their eating patterns such as how and when they take food? Maybe their toilet habits have changed?

Perhaps they simply look a little bigger than they used to!

These signs can all point towards conditions that may be affected by diet.

Whilst in these circumstances we usually recommend a consultation with one of our vets to establish the whole clinical picture, the nursing team can make useful suggestions that will support your pet’s overall wellness. Changes to diet can really help make a difference to a variety of conditions. Here’s our top tips for feeding pets well with our recommended range of pet food from nutrition specialists, Hill’s.

Ask one of our friendly advisors for further details or book an appointment with one of our nutrition ambassadors for advice on how diet may help your pet in any one of these areas. www.blacksvets.co.uk

72

Did you know…?

Choose a food that is suitable for your pet’s age. Puppy and kitten food will have different nutritional content to adult pet food and food designed for mature pets will again have a different profile.

Protect My Pet Club Members receive a discount of 25% on Hill’s Prescription and Essentials diets.

Whether your pet is neutered makes a difference. The Hill’s range for neutered pets is balanced to help manage weight whilst maintaining a healthy coat, joints and urinary tract.

Our Hill’s loyalty card scheme means your 6th bag is free!

Our Pet Starter Pack for puppies and kittens comes with a free starter pack of Hill’s food so your pet can try the food, risk free.

Size is important! Smaller pets need smaller pieces of food that are easy to digest, whereas large and giant breeds benefit from larger sized kibble.

We offer £5 off the purchase price of your first bag of food.

Look for a food that offers a complete nutritional package. Hill’s range covers all main nutrients, so your pet doesn’t need to supplement their diet with anything else.

And to top it all off we offer a money back guarantee if the food doesn’t suit your pet. Just return it to us within one week of purchase for a full refund.

Opt for a range with flexible sizing. Hill’s offer bags from 1.5kg – 8kg for cat food and 1.5kg -13kg for dogs, meaning less wastage for you.

The Hill’s range offers tailored foods that support the following areas of health; -

www.blacksvets.co.uk

Weight control Helps digestive system Skin & coat Vital organs Joints & mobility Dental Colon

Meet Blaze Our Weight-Loss Super Star!

Beautiful Blaze had piled the pounds on when he first came to one of our special weight management clinics and after cruciate ligament surgery, was recommended to try and lose some weight to aid his recovery. After a consultation, we suggested he switch to Hill’s Canine Metabolic & Mobility food which would help him reach a healthy target weight whilst looking after his joints. We are delighted to report that after a few months on his new diet, he reached and has since maintained his goal weight and has now moved onto Hill’s Canine Vet Essentials Mature Adult food.

Blaze’s owners are delighted with the change they have seen in their lovely boy, who now has much more energy for playing and walks. As Protect My Pet Club Members, they were entitled to a free bag of food, and also received £5 off their first bag purchased. To make sure Blaze stays on track, he visits us once a month for a weigh-in and of course lots of fuss!

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74

URGENTLY SEEKING PERMANENT 2019 HOMES FOR THE FOLLOWING CARS Jet

approx 11 months old very cheeky long haired loves people.

Lulu

Miss independent but full of fun and loving approx 5 years old.

Jasmine

A very lovely tortie friendly approx 2 years old.

Shiva

Approx 18 months old female very affectionate.

Stevie

81who is seeking a A friendly mature male loving home urgently

For details of these cats please email Janis.rspca@btinternet.com or tel 07715201239 between 6pm and 7pm For all cruelty/neglect call 0300 1234 999 75

Our Jobs

Back In Training for the World Championships Teams consist of between 2 and 8 dogs on a rig and 1 and two dogs on bikes or scooters so there is something for everybody without the need for lots of dogs.

After a few months rest during the warmer summer weather Stuart and Lisa Murray along with their team of Siberian Husky’s are back training hard for the World Sleddog Association Dryland World Championships which are being held at the Firle Estate on the south coast of England in November and then the Snow Championships in Solvakia early next year.

Trails lengths are usually between 3 and 5 miles depending on the team size. We have been competing for the last 19 years and Stuart has run in all classes from 2 dogs up to 6 dogs winning numerous Championship titles over the years including British Champion on several occasions, Stuart is currently running a six dog team which performed extremely well last season and was unbeaten in all but one race.

Sleddog racing takes place across the UK with events organised by a number of clubs including the Siberian Husky Club of GB, Alaskan Malamute Working Association and the British Sleddog Sport Federation with the race season running from October through to March each year.

A lot of time and hard work goes into getting 76

Our Jobs together, it is not easy to get a well-balanced and matched team. We are really excited for the coming season and fingers crossed we are hoping for a podium place at the Dryland World Championships along with all other UK races over the winter season.

the team into top condition with training 3 or 4 times a week, training takes place early morning or late evenings to take advantage of the cooler temperatures so it is not unusual for us to be going out at 4.30am to train in the mud and rain and then be home to get ready to go to work, this hobby really is a lifestyle that does not suit everybody.

The snow championships will be a bit tougher as we will only have a couple of weeks to train on the snow beforehand and we will be competing with teams that have been racing and training on snow all winter but we aim to give it our best and most of all have some fun.

Keeping the dogs healthy is essential and diet plays a big part in the dogs performance we are extremely lucky to have the support from the nutritionists at Burns pet food who regularly assess the dogs weight and condition and provide us with their Active range as feeding a high quality food is essential to give them the fuel needed to assist in winning races.

The competition will be tough but we hope that our dedication and the dogs love of running shows in our results throughout the season.

Over the years we have been lucky enough to have some really special dogs, some unfortunately are no longer with us but they have been with us on a very special journey meeting lots of great friends and which has taken us all over the country and into Europe, we have made amazing memories with lots still to look forward to.

In addition we are also have the amazing team at Richard Smiths Vets on call to look after any medical needs we have including keeping the dogs passports up to date which we need to be able to compete abroad.

The current team consists of dogs ranging between 6 years old and 2 years old they really are a dream team and work extremely well

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Our Leisure

Stourbridge Rugby Match Day Experience Preparations are already underway for the new season at Stourbridge Rugby, which started on Saturday 17th August with a PreSeason friendly that saw a combined Firsts & Lions XV take on Bristol’s Dings Crusaders from National 2 South.

at the main event - the BIG match.

League matches normally start at 3:00pm (2:15pm for Midlands 1 West) and with our teams competing at Level 4 and Level 6, the quality of rugby is outstanding. The Stourton Park crowd is usually very difficult to quieten, which makes for an intense atmosphere at every home game.

Friday Night Lights

Friday night games have become the norm in the Rugby Premiership and have attracted big crowds to watch their teams under the floodlights. At Stourbridge, this is also the case, with five Midlands 1 West matches already scheduled for Lions XV on Friday nights. The first of these is against our close neighbours, Old Halesonians on Friday 11th October, with kick-off at 7:30pm. If you fancy making it a real night out, delicious locally-made Pie & Mash is served from around 6:30pm. The Friday Night Lights games have become very popular, with the mixture of rugby, night sky and floodlights adding to the already electric atmosphere at Stourton Park.

The league season starts in earnest on Saturday 7th September, with the First XV taking on Loughborough Students in National 2 North at Stourton Park, whilst the Lions XV travels to Midlands 1 West newcomers, Kenilworth.

Match days at Stourbridge are always a whole Club affair, which creates a real buzz and atmosphere around Stourton Park and make it a great afternoon out for the whole family.

From 12 noon, a two course lunch is served in the Club Room for those who like to start their match days early. The diners are usually joined by opposition fans and officials, with short speeches from both Clubs’ Presidents to start the afternoon off. For the many who prefer a less formal way to watch a rugby match, there’s always the ever-popular Club BBQ, which serves, delicious burgers, hot dogs and chips from the tent outside the Club House.

If you’d like more information about match days at Stourbridge Rugby, visit the website at www.stourbridgerugby.com or give the Club office a call on 01384 395000.

This season, there will be more curtain-raiser games played by our 350 strong Mini & Junior teams, who will take it in turn to entertain the crowds before the main event. Many of these players will then perform ball boy or girl duty

We look forward to seeing you at Stour soon! #ComeOnStour!

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Our Leisure

GET INTO

GOLF

HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT TAKING UP GOLF? WELL YOU CAN! • NO AGE LIMIT • MEET NEW FRIENDS • EXERCISE IN BEAUTIFUL SURROUNDINGS • A CHALLENGE - BOTH MENTALLY & PHYSICALLY

Stourbridge Golf Club is offering Taster Days, Group Coaching plus many more opportunities to get into golf Don’t delay contact the Professional’s Shop on 01384 395566 79

Our Charity

Hagley Mums are Queens, of Gala on the Green!

Four local Hagley mums are celebrating their success in organising an event that has knocked up nearly 4k for the Hagley Primary School PTA and has received rave reviews from all the attendee’s, sponsors and partners of Gala on the Green.

different parents to take over as their children progress through school.

The ladies soon enlisted the help of Danielle Binns, a Professional Sales Manager with over 15 year’s experience and lots of local business contacts, and Yve Parker who has worked in events, sponsorship and social media management for the last 18 years and currently works with her husband and their digital agency Phenix Digital. With the seeds sown, the ladies began their quest to grow the event with sponsors, prizes, venues, marketing, and much more!

The idea developed from HR guru Claire Goodwin of ‘Goodwin HR’, and fellow mum Gemma Walmsley a teacher of 12 years taking a career break to bring up 4 beautiful children.

They wanted to put on an event to raise money for the school that their children attend, but they wanted something different, unconventional and something that would potentially become an annual event that parents would really look forward to and perhaps pass down the line for

Gala on the Green took place on Friday 5th July at Hagley Golf Club, after tickets sold out in just three days of being on sale. The ladies 80

Our Charity

and their contacts secured 17 local business sponsors and the Venue who all benefitted from the prominent social media campaign, as well as featuring on the event website, photo wall, banners, tickets and the opportunity to include prizes for the raffle, and promote themselves at the event to nearly 200 guests.

community for supporting us on our first ever event of this size, its completely overwhelming.

It’s a really uplifting feeling to know that we have made a difference and raised nearly £4,000 for the PTA, and that we have done our little bit for the School that our children attend. We really hope that everyone has enjoyed the night, the four of us have loved every minute – even the really stressful moments!”

The parents and friends of Hagley primary school danced the night away with a DJ featuring performances from Andy Sax, one of the UK’s busiest saxophonists and who features on the artist Plan B’s album, and a Queen Tribute Band on a beautiful LED dancefloor.

The event was filmed by Phenix Digital Ltd and the footage is available now on the Facebook page. The night has clearly been a success and the ladies are already planning and thrashing ideas around for Gala on the Green 2020.

There was Gin served in Tea Cups, a tasty BBQ, Haybales to sit on, Real Ales galore, a Craft Gin Horse Box, a show singer and pianist, fire eating, and Ariel Silk acts, Glitter face tattoo’s and much more!

You can see all the action on Facebook @galaonthegreen or the website www.galaonthegreen.123.me

The ladies said; “We are over the moon with how the evening has taken shape, we’ve worked hard to bring this night together and we’re so proud of the local 81

Our Charity

MIDLANDS LADIES CIRCLE HELP RAISE £5K FOR HOSPICEE A generous group of Midland fundraisers have raised over £5,821 for a local charity that’s close to their hearts.

much-needed funds for the Hospice, which provides vital care to local people living with life-limiting illness.

Members of the 10 clubs which make up the ‘Heart of England Area 4 Ladies Circle’ – which includes groups from Bromsgrove, Redditch and Stourbridge – have raised funds for Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice through a number of different fundraising events over the past year.

The compassionate group of ladies decided to support Birmingham St Mary’s following the care and support it provided to Mark Haynes in 2006, who was the husband of the group’s 2018/19 area chair, Vicky Hadley.

She said: “Mark was just 29-years-old when he was told that he had less than a year to live. It was heart-breaking news and to this day, I’m still thankful that Birmingham St Mary’s was there for us every step of the way.

The kind-hearted group of 18 to 45-yearolds have taken part in bucket collections, collected pennies, organised quiz nights, hosted shopping nights and more to raise the 82

Our Charity

is celebrating 40 years of care across Birmingham and Sandwell. When the Hospice first opened in 1979, it could care for 25 people on any given day. Four decades later and the Hospice is supporting over 400 people every day, providing care in people’s homes, in the community, at its Day Hospice facility and at the Hospice’s Inpatient Unit.

“The nurses from the Hospice were like a breath of fresh air. We had a nurse called Mary who would visit Mark at home. She just seemed to get what we were going through and was always there whenever we needed to talk or had questions. She encouraged Mark to create a bucket list of the things he wanted to do and so he ended up taking an amazing trip to New York, watching Aston Villa from the box, and marrying me.

Charlotte Dowling, community fundraising manager at the Hospice, added: “A huge well done to the Ladies Circle for raising such an impressive amount of money for Birmingham St Mary’s. I am so thankful for the support they have given to the Hospice over the past year – not only in helping to raise funds but also by spreading the word about vital hospice care across their communities.

“Due to the wonderful support that Mark and I received from the Hospice, I wanted to use my year as area chair to really shout about the Hospice and encourage the ladies to fundraise for such a wonderful cause. The groups have been fantastic in raising money and awareness for the Hospice and we’ve had a lot of fun putting on events and getting outand-about in and around the Midlands. Thank you to all the members of the group for their dedication and hard work, and thank you to everyone who has supported us and donated over the past year.”

“It costs £9m to run the Hospice every year – over 60% of which must come from voluntary donations – so the work of Ladies Circle really does make a difference to the people we care for, enabling the Hospice to continue to support people when they need it most.”

Heart of England Area 4 Ladies Circle have clubs in Tamworth, Shirley, Moseley, Kenilworth, Redditch, Bromsgrove, Stourbridge, Lichfield, Knowle and Dorridge and Evesham. It is an organisation aimed at women who are looking to make new friends, try new activities and fundraise for local charities.

Ladies Circle is currently looking for new members to join its group. To find out more, visit: www.ladiescircle.co.uk To find out more about Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice, visit: www. birminghamhospice.org.uk

The funds raised for the Hospice has come at a particularly special time, as the charity 83

+RURVFRSHV

oroscopes Horoscopes Our

Horoscopes

ohn Starkey

334224 50/02 - 40/12 suruaT john-starkey.co.uk a efil gnikat tuoba gnikniht htrow si tI arkey123@outlook.com nevdCapricorn a eht sa ,ecapAquarius rewols ylthgilsPisces a oy taht tseggus dluoc ,retipuJ tenalp eht fo oScorpio keew a ts23/10 uj rof- 22/11 kcab flesruoy dloh ot deen Itnois padlock itpoimportant tnatropmitoehtkeep pu hgaiew uoy tslihw ,o tw upon aeh ylyour lanoistemper seforp and eb yallow am uoyourself y .uoy fo tnorf in before .rof gnyou itiawact. htroIndecision w llew eb dnow luoccould hcihw detnuh ntimely delays. The next few weeks ver look very promising for 60/02 - 60particularly /12 inimeG snin a love. edutitta dicalp yllufrednow ruoY December 21 - January 19

January 20 - February 18

February 19 - March 20

A mental spring clean is very much the order of the months. Your innovative ideas and fresh approaches could put you at the top of the stack as far a progress and promotion go. Maybe you will be headhunted by people of influence.

LUCKY NUMBER 7

The activity in your twelfth house indicates that love and romance are definitely in the air. Is is better of “ the devil you know “, being the one to stick to, a new direction up ahead. The choice is yours. !

They not to get lost in the boredom and endless of paper work. Its time to delegate all the donkey work to others, whilst you sit back and direct operations.

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

March 21- April 20

April 21 - May 20

May 21 - June 20

No stone should be left unturned when it comes to finding out who is on your side and who is not. “ if they are not with you they are against you “. Sort out all the gossips and narks surrounding you. Be the manter of your own intentions.

WOW! Its a real rock and roll rollercoaster that will make your life full of excitement and exhilaration. Thought it might seem chaotic for a while this is an indication that you being released from the old routine and delivered to the land of the living.

Try not to let others call your bluff. Once you have decided what you want to do, you must stick to your guns and not to change your mind. The strength of that intrepid planet Venus is offering you a once in a lifetime chance to make good.

luoc ,srehto ot hcaorppa eltneg Sagittarius o mlab tup ot23/11 nosr-e20/12 p laedi eht uoy eka m Try hw toestake oht aebneutral yam view erehTparticularly .sretaw delbuotr others. einwmatters dna ecrelating ivda dotoog ruoy Perhaps, rof uoy knaht lliw od time to .put up saeup, di cishut tehtap meand dnabide tuo thguo th e until you say your piece. Time is on .

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Our

Horoscopes

T: 01902334224 W: www.john-starkey.co.uk E: johnstarkey123@outlook.com

Taurus 21/04 - 20/05

It is worth thinking about taking life at Cancer Leo pace, asVirgo a slightly slower the advent of the planet Jupiter, could suggest that you need to hold yourself back for just a week or wo, whilst you weigh up the important options n front of you. you may be professionally head hunted which could be well worth waiting for.

June 21 - July 21

July 22 - August 21

August 22 - September 22

The sands of time are on your side, so get on with the job in hand and be swift in making decisions especially where domestic matters are concerned.

Maybe you need to make yourself the leader of the pack.

Though a turbulent start may frustrate you. Soon you will have all the support that you need from those who matter.

This is a time of team work and cooperation.

Your brilliant flashes of inspiration needs to be shared with others, there’s no point on hitting on a pearl of wisdom and not using it to your advantage. You do the thinking and others can put your plans into action.

Gemini 21/06 -

20/06

Your wonderfully attitude and Libra Scorpio placidSagittarius

gentle approach to others, could make you the ideal person to put balm on roubled waters. There may be those who will thank you for your good advice and wel hought out and empathetic ideas.

September 21 - October 22

October 23 - November 22

November 23 - December 20

Crossing water and travelling could be an understatement. Though you may not have a minute to spare and this will be a period of excitement. New ideas, new places and new people will all make up your new future.

The activity of the moon is paramount. Be careful to be precise and accurate in everything that you undertake. It is a great time to change things around in business and take on further responsibilities.

Jupitar and mars favour the bold and the adventurous, so pull out all the stops and go full steam ahead with new projects and adventures. It really is your time to make good.

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Our Finance & Legal

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For confidential advice without obligation call the team on 07968 609752 mshephard@whiterosefinance.co.uk www.wrf-shephard.co.uk Please make borrowing decisions carefully, your property may be repossessed if you fail to make the agreed payments.

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Our Finance & Legal

The pain and pleasure of diversification Anita Gatehouse Our Lifestyle’s Financial Expert

Could’ve, would’ve, should’ve!

A powerful insight into the dangers of owning a concentrated portfolio can be found in a piece of research on the US market from 1927 to 2015**. Of the 26,000 companies that have been listed on the US exchanges, only 36 made it through the whole period. The total wealth of $32 trillion generated over the period was entirely accounted for by just 4% of companies. The market as a whole – the good and bad in aggregate – delivered an annualised return of nearly 7% after inflation p.a. i.e. investors doubled their money roughly every 11 years, over this period. That’s a pretty good outcome and a direct consequence of being diversified.

It is human nature to look at an investment that has done particularly well and wish you had been invested in it. We all risk being dragged into ‘if only’ mind games: ‘If only I had put £10,000 into Amazon in 2003, I’d be retired by now’*.

‘If only I had bought Bitcoin at £1….’

These thoughts are dangerous to you as an investor, as this fear of missing out (FOMO) can tempt you into taking speculative risks, often based on a rear-view mirror perspective.

Concentrated risks have concentrated outcomes, both good and bad.

The difficulties of trying to time markets or to pick companies, sectors or managers, in the face of little evidence that professional investors have persistent skill in these fields suggests that a rational investor should eschew such approaches and seek to place their investment eggs across a wide range of baskets.

We have a lot of respect for the fund manager Neil Woodford, but anyone reading the news lately will have seen that his concentrated, high conviction, long-term strategy takes a lot of living with, which few investors seem to have the stomach for. His fund, which peaked at above £10 billion, has less than £4bn in it today and the doors are currently closed to new money and withdrawals. Concentration risks are real.

The challenge with owning a diversified portfolio is that sometimes one can fail to look 88

Our Finance & Legal * In 2003 Amazon’s stock price fell as low as $7 per share. At the time of writing, the share price is over $1775

at the bigger picture, diving into the detail of your investments valuation to pick out the fund that is not performing well, and possibly worrying about it. Under-performance does not mean that it is a bad fund or a bad strategy or a bad manager, particularly when systematic, low cost funds are used in the portfolio to capture market returns as we recommend.

It just means that some markets (or parts of markets) are zigging while others are zagging – the very essence of diversification!

**Bessembinder, H., (2017) Do Stocks Outperform Treasury Bills? WP Carey School of Business, Arizona State University 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.

A diversified portfolio is not always easy to live with, as there will always be something you don’t own that is doing better than the portfolio and always something in the portfolio that is doing poorly. Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water. That particular poorly performing investment could be the shining star in the not too distant future.

If you have investments of over £150,000 and would like to discuss your investment options why not give Jo a ring on 01562 745730 to arrange a no obligation 30 minute free meeting.

That ugly duckling might turn into a swan!

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Our advisors are here to provide the essential business advice and support as your business develops and grows.

At Baldwins, we have many years of experience and commitment to accounting excellence. However our expertise doesn’t stop with accounting, our specialist advisory teams and personal service ethos means we are there to help you and your business thrive in today’s competitive environment.

With offices across the region, you can rely on us to provide up-to-the-minute knowledge and advice. So if you’d like to see what we can do for your business, please contact us for a free introductory meeting.

Ian Wilkins Director 1st Floor | Copthall House | 1 New Road | Stourbridge | West Midlands | DY8 1PH 01384 370060 | info@baldwinandco.co.uk | www.baldwinsaccountants.co.uk

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Our Finance & Legal

Sort your will for FREE and show your support for a local hospice Big-hearted solicitors and will writers from across the West Midlands are supporting a local hospice’s ‘Make a Will’ month this autumn, by offering people a cheaper way to sort out their will.

Katy O’Sullivan, senior individual giving and legacy manager at Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice, said: “Writing a will is essential in making sure that your last wishes are respected and that the people you love will be provided for. Taking part in Make a Will month is a really simple and inexpensive way for people to get this vital document sorted, whilst also allowing them to show their support for crucial hospice care.”

From Monday 7 to Thursday 31 October, a number of generous firms will be waiving their usual will writing fees and instead asking people to make a charitable donation to Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice.

It currently costs £9 million to run Birmingham St Mary’s vital services every year, over 60 per cent of which must come from generous voluntary donations.

Suggested donations are £100 for a single will, which typically cost £185, or £125 for a joint will, which normally costs £225. For wills requiring more specialist advice, the solicitors will agree a fee in advance.

To take part in Birmingham St Mary’s ‘Make a Will Month’, visit: www.birminghamhospice. org.uk/make-a-will or call 0121 752 8779.

All donations will go towards the Hospice, which supports local people to live well with life-limiting illness.

MAKE A WILL MONTH 7th - 31st October 2019

Write or update your will for a suggested donation and help local people live well with life-limiting illness

For further information please visit www.birminghamhospice.org.uk/make-a-will or call 0121 752 8779 91 503390 Make a Will Our Lifestyle Magazine Advert 144 x 106mm.indd 1

02/08/2019 10:49

Our Finance & Legal

The Magnificent ‘Law’ Seven adopt pedal power to raise £15,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital explained Peter Hill, Director at Talbots Law.

Seven legal experts are embarking on a near 240-mile bike ride to raise over £15,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital (BCH).

“We’ve got a cracking set of riders drawn from different local offices and different legal specialties. It should certainly make for an interesting journey and the most important thing - raising lots of money for such a great charity.”

The intrepid team from Talbots Law will swap their daily workloads for the chance to emulate their cycling heroes by travelling from Steelhouse Lane in Birmingham to Amsterdam in just three days.

The Amsterdam Bike Challenge is just one of a number of activities Talbots Law staff are taking part in to try to surpass last year’s £50,000 total.

Peter Hill, Keith Yates, James Gwilliams, Callum Haynes, Richard Stone, Claire Kenny and Anees Rehman will travel to St Neots on day 1, before heading to Harwich where they will catch a ferry to the Hook of Holland. The final ride will be about 70 miles along the coast to Amsterdam.

So far, the firm has had Sarah Rooney, a member of its Dispute Resolution team, complete the London Marathon and four colleagues compete in the Birmingham Triathlon, with 22 people set to jump out of a plane for a sponsored sky dive in September.

This is the latest in a series of fundraising efforts by the Black Country law firm and comes just a few weeks after it was named as Corporate Sponsor of the Year by Birmingham Children’s Hospital for raising over £50,000 in 2018.

For further information, go to www. talbotslaw.co.uk or visit the fundraising page - https://www.justgiving.com/ companyteams/talbotscyclists.

More details on Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity can be found at www.bch. org.uk or at @bham_childrens or follow @ talbotslaw on twitter.

“The long distances back-to-back will be tough for the team, but most of us are experienced cyclists and, for those that aren’t, they’ve been putting in a lot of hard training miles,” 92

“Patient, empathic lawyers.”

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 off-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.

CODSALL • DUDLEY HALESOWEN • KIDDERMINSTER 93 STOURBRIDGE • WOLVERHAMPTON

0800 118 1500

www.talbotslaw.co.uk

Our Funerals

07722 203636

Celebrating a Life Sharon is a Professional Funeral Celebrant who lives in Stourbridge. She helps families to create a bespoke farewell ceremony for loved ones. For those of you who are not sure what a Funeral Celebrant is, let me explain.

choice. Held in the local crematorium or any venue the family want.

Sharon gives families the opportunity to have the Ceremony on a day, time and venue that suits them. Did you know that you can have a funeral ceremony at any venue of your choice?

It can even be held at home if there is enough room. If you are looking for an alternative to a 30 minute crematorium service Sharon will be happy to advise you on other venues and help you to plan a fitting ceremony that celebrates the life and character of your loved one.

A Funeral Celebrant falls somewhere between the two polarised positions of Religious Minister and Humanist. A Minister is a member of a Religion and usually must follow the rules laid down by that organisation with regards to the structure and wording of the ceremony.

A Humanist will create a very personal but totally non-religious ceremony. A Celebrant led ceremony can include prayers and hymns, poems, readings, popular music and songs too. Whatever the family wants they can have.

It’s all about celebrating the life of the person who has died.

Your wishes are of paramount importance, and Sharon is dedicated to helping all families have the goodbye ceremony that they want. Whether it is at the crematorium or an alternative venue, Sharon will be there to help you and your family to make the ceremony a perfect celebration of the life of your loved one.

The funeral industry is changing. Families want something different. Current generations have a different attitude to funerals and religion is becoming less important to many.

Personalised Ceremonies are now the popular

Contact Sharon on 07722 203636 for more information

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Our Funerals

J.T. BROOKES & Co Hagley INDEPENDENT

Independent FUNERALFamily Funeral Directors DIRECTORS

PART OF N.E DOWNING (BLACKHEATH) LTD

Independent family run business for over 100 years Home visits available by appointment Pre-paid funeral plans through Golden Charter 24hr service 365 days a year FOR IMMEDIATE HELP AND ADVICE CONTACT US ON

01562 888041 HAGLEY@NEDOWNING.CO.UK J. T. Brookes & Co., Brierley Hill, Kingswinford & Hagley

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Our Motoring

Volkswagen T-Roc Design The larger engines, can have a 4-wheel drive option. Diesels are Volkswagens popular 1.6-litre and 2-litres.

Volkswagen has introduced yet another vehicle in to the popular SUV marketplace, and the arrival of the T-Roc is a further enhancement to this market, writes Bob Hickman.

I had initial concerns about a small, 1-litre engine propelling a vehicle of this size but I shouldn’t have worried, the 115bhp seemed more than adequate to propel the vehicle in all variable situations. Top speed is quoted at 116mph and the CO emissions are on the low side at 119 g/km. The 6-speed manual gearbox was a delight, positive, with the ratios chosen by the engineers suiting most, if not all circumstances.

The market for SUV’s is awash and the T-Roc has to be a quality vehicle to succeed. It has a compact exterior design and seems to have wondrous amounts of interior space, it is a full 5-seater and has a huge luggage compartment more than sufficient for all the passengers.

There are 3 petrol engines and 2 turbo diesels, the petrols are a diminutive 1-litre producing 115bhp, which was the power plant for my vehicle, and a larger 1.5-litre and a 2-litre.

Vehicles in this particular marketplace have to be good and the Volkswagen brand stands out. If you are used to a Golf then you will be very familiar with the T-Roc interior and the 96

Our Motoring Externally the vehicle belies its interior amount of space. The car is able to accommodate 4/5 adults with ease and luggage capacity at 445 litres is generous, but if you dropped the rear seats and also the tops of the headrests then it increases to 1290litres, quite a handy amount of luggage space.

controls because after all the T-Roc is based on the Golf.

The interior of my particular T-Roc Design, was one of an extremely pleasant vehicle to be cocooned within, safety we take for granted now, the Isofix child seat operation is a useful feature as are the 3 per head restraints and the 3 rear full 3-point seat belts. I particularly liked the dual zone air conditioning and an air recirculating again a perfect ally for those with allergies.

The driving dynamics of the T-Roc follow that of a lot of other SUV’s, the slightly higher driving position gives a rewarding perspective whilst in the driving seat.

In this day and age of SUV’s being the invehicle and with the amount of choices available Volkswagen has entered the marketplace perhaps a little late with the T-Roc, I accept that they have other vehicles within the segment but this mid-size is the one to be in and with the T-Roc currently on price from £17,700, I think they have ticked another box in the desirability stakes.

The interior incorporated electric windows both front and rear, heated and foldable door mirrors are another feature. The rear activated camera was a bonus, the car infotainment and technophobes amongst us will be pleased to see Blue Tooth and audio connections are available and a wonderful system incorporates app connections, 2 USB charging points and a very impressive sound system.

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Our Gardens

Red Thread What can GreenThumb do to remove Red Thread?

Generally, if our customers are receiving their regular fertiliser treatments this reduces the incidence of it. However, if the problem arises due to the conditions described above, we recommend applying a fungicide treatment.

Red Thread is a very common fungal disease found in lawns across the UK. If your lawn is suffering from Red Thread you may notice reddish/brown patches of decaying grass.

Upon close inspection, very fine red needles can be seen protruding from the blades of grass. You may also see pink/reddish candyfloss like globules around the base of the leaf.

Infected blades are often mixed with healthy blades giving the lawn a ragged appearance.

What to expect following an application of fungicide.

The lawn should overcome the disease within 2-3 weeks of application. It has been our experience that if the humid weather continues, in rare circumstances Red Thread may reoccur.

In severe cases, the grass looks scorched or yellowed in irregularly-shaped or circular patches from 5 to 50cm in diameter. The patches may be widely scattered or, if close together, may amalgamate into larger spots.

Did you know?

There are many other fungal diseases and disorders that are found on lawns throughout the UK. Examples of these could be Leaf spot, Fusarium, Snow Mould, Fairy Rings and Slime Mould.

How did my lawn get Red Thread?

Red Thread is often caused by high humidity and low fertility of the grass. It is most common during summer months when humidity is very high.

#6345-Oswestry-165x259-try-10+editorial-200wrds-17oct17-PRINT.pdf

Can it spread from lawn to lawn?

Not usually, although if you are concerned about this, it may be a good idea to clean the mower blades with a hosepipe to remove any mycelium (fungus) from the blades.

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*20% off on all new Neff appliance orders with and without kitchen furniture order offer on from 1st September to 30th November.

30% off on Neff venting hob T58TS6BN0 offer on from 1st September to 31st October

SHOWROOM OPEN

TUES -FRI 9 . 3 0 A M-5 PM SAT 1 0 A M -4 PM

Unit 3, 19 Lisle Avenue, Kidderminster DY11 7DF

100

( 01562 66882

www.kawinteriordesign.co.uk