June 2018 - Stockton on Tees by My Local Magazine Middlesbrough & Stockton on Tees

My Local Magazine ®

Issue 86 | July 2018 | The BEST of Stockton’s Business, News, Reviews and To-Do’s

Local Stories | Local Businesses | Gardening | Car Reviews Health & Beauty | Home

Inside… Holiday Data Roaming Stylish Summer Picnics Stay Safe in The Sun convertibles for under £2,000

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Keep Me for 2 Months

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Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen so our customers are assured of the best job. Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we The company, based locally, say and make sure the house offers homeowners the opis spotless when we leave, portunity to maximise their and Value in that we offer storage space with a loft our services at a price people ladder, 50 sq ft of boarding can afford. Our business and a light all fully fitted in relies on referrals and we got less than a day from just a huge amount of our calls £277 + VAT. But it’s not just from people who have been the affordability of the pack- referred to us by our existing age the company offers that customers - that simply makes Yorkshire Loft Ladwouldn’t happen if we didn’t ders stand out as manager adhere to our overriding Mark Hodson explains: principles. These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Yorkshire Loft Ladders come in.

‘Our watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value.

lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’ So, if you want to make use of your loft space, however

big or small, call Mark on 0800 612 8359 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers

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care for our elderly that’s good enough for the Queen! You’re never too old to try something new, whether it’s joining a local exercise class, learning a language or making new friends – age is just a number! Social connections promote positive health and wellbeing, all of which help combat social isolation and loneliness and enhance wellbeing. Home Instead Senior Care is a local company who are specialists at providing exemplary care and support to older people who want to remain happily, safely and independently at home. Their award winning care model is centred on companionship, ensuring older people have someone to talk to who genuinely cares about them and who spends quality time with them. The company is very proud of its dedicated, passionate Caregivers who provide companionship and care to their clients every day. Home Instead does this so well that they have been

are there as a friend and you spend time talking to a getting to know the client; you develop a relationship and become a friend. And it is for that that you have an award for innovation – relationship care, matching the carer to the client and of course making sure that the same person sees the same client over a long period.”

awarded the Queens Award for Enterprise for their endeavours! The Queens official representative, Lord Lieutenant David Briggs, MBE, K.St.J. saying “The Queen has been so impressed with your single minded determination to give the elderly what they want – to cherish, or dare I say to love and truly care for them. You have also understood that one of the biggest killers in old age is loneliness and so you are not just there to clean or cook or to change the person being cared for, but you

Genuine care for the elderly is only ever as good as the people employed to deliver that support and so that’s why the best care providers use ‘value based’ recruitment practices. This makes sure that people employed are genuine, true and honest people, many of whom the company finds have never had formal care experience with another organisation but have looked after a family member for example; they know from the heart what it takes to provide and receive that support. Home Instead then provides its bespoke, award winning training to the right candidates. Alison P. joined Home Instead recently and had this to say … “I believe there is a difference between needing a job and wanting a job! I want this job. I’ve been so full of enthusiasm about it since I left the initial interview. I’ve done all the humdrum jobs, had my self-confidence knocked out of me by motherhood and now I believe it’s my time to shine, not just my time, but for the people whom I feel I have so much to offer. . I’ve always had so much to give and feel this would be the vocation in life that I have always aspired to. I don’t want to ‘care’ for people in an environment that doesn’t allow the operative word. I want to make a difference to both the client and the relatives who are putting their faith into outside care, usually due to outside commitments of their own.Therefore they must have complete confidence / reassurance that the care for their loved one is second to none” …. Are there anymore ‘Alison’s’ out there …?

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eDITOR’S leTTeR

July 2018 Now that all the end of term exams are finished, and summer is finally here. We can now enjoy the months ahead. Now is the time to start thinking about all of those jobs we have been putting off, due to the recent inclement weather. Before we know it, it will be October and another year has passed us by. The back pages are full of trades and services people whom I sure will be able to help you. Many of the tradespeople in the magazine we have at some point performed work around our home. If you ever need a recommendation, please feel free to give me a call. I may be able to steer you in the right direction.

I particularly like the article on “Best Convertable for Under £2,000. We have been thinking about buying a soft top for summer motoring.You will be surprised what you can buy for little money that still attracts kerb appeal. Lastly, if you are on a staycation, check out our summer articles. We are not short of things to do in Teesside, with these handy tips might make summers days a little better. Best Wishes

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cOnTenTS

You may have noticed that we have changed our editorial recently with some handy beauty tips? This month

features Recipe

Life List 71

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Jeremy Middleton Managing Director T: 01642 924847 M: 07533 265 475 e: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk W: www.mylocal-magazine.co.uk My Local Magazines Ltd, Office 4, Walker House, 3rd Floor, High Street Stockton on Tees TS18 1BG My Local Magazine does not endorse any advertisement within this publication. My Local Magazine cannot be held responsible for breach of copyright arising from publication artwork supplied. It is the advertiser’s responsibility to ensure conformity with the Trades Description Act 1975 Business Advertisement Disclosure Order 1977 and The Consumer Act 1974. Reproduction of this magazine is in any way is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use any of the advertisements or content within this publication, please contact Jeremy Middleton 01642 924847 While we, the publisher take great care to be accurate, no liability will be accepted under any circumstances should any of the contents of this publication be incorrect.

QUIRKY BRITAIN

Meditation: marvellous medicine or new age fad?

Home Products Stylish Summer Picnics

Books

How Safe is Your Suntan?

Embrace the great outdoors

THE ROAMING EMPIRE

The Best Convertibles For Under £2,000

Lethal Leatherjackets

Advertisers Index

Struggling with dentures? We can help Can you eat with conﬁdence? Are you happy with how they look? Are you embarrased to smile? Chris Egan GDC 119949

will not only treat you personally in clinic, but he’ll also carefully handcraft your dentures from start to ﬁnish.

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lemon and almond Sandwich cookies These delightful crisp and buttery lemon and almond cookies have a tangy layer of lemon curd in the middle. Makes 10 Ready in 40 minutes, plus chilling and cooling 115g unsalted butter, softened 115g caster sugar, plus extra for sprinkling 1 tsp almond extract 1 large egg yolk 200g plain flour, plus extra for dusting Milk, for sealing and glazing 2-3 tbsp good quality lemon curd 2 tbsp flaked almonds 1 Place the butter, sugar and almond extract in a mixing bowl and beat with a hand-held electric whisk until pale and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolk then gradually beat in the flour to form a crumbly dough.

2 Gather the dough with your hands and knead lightly until smooth. Wrap in cling film and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes, or until firm. 3 Line a baking sheet with baking paper. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to 2mm thick. Using a 7cm round fluted cookie cutter, stamp out 20 rounds, re-rolling the dough as necessary. Place on the baking sheets and chill in the fridge for 15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 190Â°C, fan 170Â°C, gas mark 5. 4 Lightly brush around the edge of half the cookie dough rounds with a little milk. Drop Â˝ tsp of lemon curd in the centre of these rounds. Carefully top with the rest of the

cookie dough rounds, gently pressing to seal the edges. 5 Glaze the tops lightly with milk and sprinkle with the extra caster sugar and flaked almonds. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until pale golden. Leave on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely TIP Replace the lemon curd with jam, marmalade or chocolate hazelnut spread for a change of flavour. Remember the filling will be very hot straight out of the oven, so be sure to leave to cool completely before tucking in!

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Roast Salmon With Tomato and asparagus Tagliatelle This light summery supper is on the table in less than 30 minutes – perfect when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. If you prefer, replace the salmon with pieces of cod loin or smoked haddock fillets. Serves 4 Ready in 20 minutes 4 x 175g pieces salmon fillet Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 tbsp lemon juice 2 tbsp olive oil 250g cherry tomatoes 2 garlic cloves, peeled and thinly sliced 250g tagliatelle (see Tip) 150g asparagus tips 1 tbsp freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley Lemon wedges to serve

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C, fan 180°C, gas mark 6. Place the salmon on a lightly oiled shallow roasting tin. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and drizzle over the lemon juice. 2 Place the cherry tomatoes in a bowl and add half of the oil and the garlic. Toss gently to coat. Place in the roasting tin around the salmon. Roast for

12-15 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and the tomatoes have softened. 3 Meanwhile cook the tagliatelle in a pan of lightly salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes or according to the packet instructions. Add the asparagus tips to the pan for the final 3 minutes. Drain well. Return to the pan. 4 Add the roast cherry tomatoes and the remaining olive oil to the tagliatelle and asparagus and toss together. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. 4 Divide the pasta between four warmed plates. Top with the roasted salmon, sprinkle with the chopped parsley and serve with the lemon wedges.

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life list 71 TRIP Off THe TOnGUe Not sure whether to holiday abroad this year? Do you lack foreign language skills, and suffer from an inability to add up in any currency other than pounds and pence? If so, help is at hand with our staycation ideas, tailored to your needs. If funds are low you might feel most at home in Northern Ireland, visiting BALLYMONEY or LACK, or across the water in CASHMOOR. Do you enjoy arguing about the service charge and whether to leave a tip? Why not try YELLING and BATTLE, or a weekend in CHEAPSIDE? Feeling peckish? With DUNDEE it’s a piece of cake, and you can enjoy a full English at FRYUP. If you’re pushed for time leave EARLEY to beat the traffic and get a ticket to RYDE, but you may want to think about a BACUP route.

your trip might turn UGLEY. Dog owners could find a warm welcome in LEEDS or BARKING. Not so sure about CATFORD though.

For those who really love their shopping, how about SALE, DEAL or ANDOVER?

What about a specialist coach tour for the follically challenged, stopping at AYR, WIGTOWN and BARNET? (But never BALDER!)

Feeling nostalgic for an Essex break? Don’t look back in ONGAR because

If you don’t take yourself too seriously, RYE or GIGGLESWICK

could be good for a laugh. Or maybe you’d be happy to settle for SETTLE, unless you have BIGGAR dreams? Did you know? AMESBURY has been continuously occupied since 8820 BC, which could explain the traffic on the A303. www.alongthewritelines. blogspot.co.uk @DerekWritelines

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QUIRKY BRITaIn celebrating the well-dressed well If you happen to visit the Midlands region between May and September, you might be in for a big surprise. During this time intriguing temporary structures can appear almost overnight, creating a riot of colour in the middle of an ordinary town or village street. These structures – usually resembling a giant picture frame, with a central panel and a patterned border – can be anything up to twelve foot tall.The artwork at the centre may feature a biblical story, a historical event or even a piece of local folklore, but the most remarkable aspect of these artistic endeavours is that the illustrations are created entirely from natural materials, including flowers, mosses, leaves, twigs, seeds, beans and small pine cones. If you’re new to the area you might assume that these objects have been randomly placed as part of a local art festival, but look a little closer and you’ll realise that each display has been carefully positioned so it frames a well or freshwater spring. So what exactly is going on? Welcome to the world of well-dressing (also known as ‘well-flowering’), a thriving tradition that predates the time when historical records began. According to the website welldressing.com over a hundred villages and towns in Britain still take part annually, creating artworks to celebrate their local fresh water source. The history of well-dressing It’s likely that the custom began as a pagan ritual, designed to pay tribute to the spirit which was supposed to guard a natural spring. Prehistoric people knew that they couldn’t survive without pure drinking water and hoped to ensure a continuous supply by giving thanks to their local water deity. The early Church, disapproving of such heathen traditions, reinterpreted the rites as a Christian thanksgiving ceremony. Today many well-dressing events are still timed to coincide with important dates in the Christian calendar, and the local vicar usually turns up to bless the artwork. The pagan origins of well-dressing may be lost in prehistory, but records written during the medieval period show that communities were dressing (and blessing) their wells at that time.The Derbyshire tradition probably began in the village of Tissington in 1349, when villagers wanted to give thanks for escaping a deadly outbreak of plague.

provided a lifeline for the people. “There are two reasons for the origins of well-dressing,” Sir Richard explains. “One is that in times of drought they never dried up, so everyone lived from the water, and the other is that in times of plague, the village cut itself off from the outside world and had a safe, reliable water source for survival.” Centuries ago wells were probably decorated with simple arrangements of flowers or garlands, but it’s thought that the Victorians, with their penchant for showy and elaborate displays, were responsible for creating the large, highlydecorated structures we see today. a race against time The process starts when the wooden boards on which the designs will be mounted are soaked in a local river or pond for several days, so they absorb moisture.The clay – often dug up from a local field and worked by ‘treading’ to remove impurities – is then smoothed onto the wet wooden frame, ready for the design to be added. Time is of the essence, so any fresh flowers can survive for as long as possible. After the design has been etched into the wet clay, everyone needs to work quickly to make sure the display goes up in time. Creating the artwork can take up to a week, and the volunteers responsible for filling in the design can spend over 12 hours each day on their illustrations, first completing the outlines, then filling in the blocks of colour.

Other villages were quick to copy Tissington and the practice of well-dressing remained popular until the reign of Henry VIII, when Chancellor Thomas Cromwell issued instructions for well-dressing equipment to be destroyed wherever it was found, presumably because religious figures or pictures – forbidden by Henry’s reformed church – were being used.

There is huge competition between villages to create the best display and the design themes – created months in advance – are often kept secret and not revealed until the very last minute.That competitive spirit has now been channelled into an official event, as last year the RHS Chatsworth Flower Show started a competition to recognise the artistic flair of the nation’s well-dressers. For two years running these displays have enjoyed pride of place in RHS Chatsworth’s community area.

That must have come as a blow to rural communities like Tissington, where the villagers believed that the local waters provided an essential safeguard against natural disasters. Sir Richard Fitzherbert, the ninth baronet of Tissington Hall, claims that at times the wells literally

So, if you happen to visit the Midlands over the summer, look out for these spectacular boards. Nowadays the concept of ‘well-dressing’ may seem a little archaic, but these remarkable displays stand as a tribute to the skill, patience and local pride of the volunteers who work so hard to create them.

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“I always say I haven’t slept since 1993,” declared 67-year-old actor Sherrie Hewson on the reality TV programme, 100 Years Younger in 21 Days, which aired earlier this year. Sherrie was taking part in an experiment conducted for ITV television by Professor Ian Philp, an expert who advises the World Health Organisation on age-related health matters. When her sleep patterns were analysed, the data confirmed that she woke at regular intervals throughout the night. Although Sherrie’s participation in the TV show involved weeks of healthy eating and exercise, her sleep pattern changed very little during the course of the experiment. She was only able to enjoy her first good night’s sleep after her first successful attempt at meditation. Sherrie isn’t alone. Twenty two per cent of Britons experience interrupted sleep, often caused by anxiety or depression. In the short term this can negatively affect mood and memory and in the long term it can lead to more serious health problems.

Fight or flight So, can meditation help older people to beat stress? Meditation encourages people to take charge of their own emotions, and over time this has been shown to result in permanent changes to neural pathways in the brain. When the University of Pittsburgh in America carried out research into the effects of meditation, MRI scans revealed that the amygdala – the brain’s ‘fight or flight’ centre, linked to fear and emotion – appeared to shrink over time, while the prefrontal cortex 12

(associated with concentration, awareness and decision-making) became thicker.

just 20 minutes of meditation the non-meditators had a much calmer response to the same thoughts.

Improving concentration

Reducing stress, inducing sleep

Meditation aids concentration by encouraging you to turn off unwanted or distracting thoughts. In an observation exercise for meditators and non-meditators designed by Italian neuroscientist Giuseppe Pagnoni, the meditators significantly outperformed in the test results.You can learn to control your thoughts during meditation by taking action when your mind starts to wander. The technique involves simply acknowledging the distraction and turning back to your main focus as soon as possible.

Taming your emotions In a recent study published in the journal Consciousness and Cognition, meditators and nonmeditators were asked to think about an experience that made them angry. While meditators were almost unaffected when they focused on the experience, non-meditators’ found their breathing, heart rate and blood pressure increased. However, after

In the programme 100 Years Younger in 21 days, Professor Philp suggests that meditation can extend life expectancy by promoting better sleep. A 2015 study of forty nine middle-aged and older adults who had difficulty sleeping revealed that mindfulness meditation – which encourages subjects to beat stress by focusing on moment-by-moment experiences, thoughts and emotions – was found to be particularly effective. Like many older adults, Sherrie Hewson believed that meditation wasn’t for her, but once she understood its effects, she experienced something of a revelation. The practice of meditation won’t suit everyone, but as medical science discovers more and more potential health benefits, anyone who experiences stress, sleeplessness or negative emotions on a regular basis would be well advised to give it a try.

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Excellent rates of pay. Full training provided

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Home Products - Stylish Summer Picnics Everything tastes better when it’s eaten al fresco. So when the forecast looks good, why not pack up some food and drink and head off for a day in the great outdoors? practically perfect picnics • Research your perfect picnic spot carefully – whether it’s on the beach, in a woodland glade, near a playpark or just at the end of your garden. How far is it from the car park? Are there toilets? Can you bring your dog? Make sure you pack everything you need for the day, from plenty of water, sunscreen and snacks to a lightweight waterproof (just in case) plus a few blankets and a torch for when the sun starts to go down. • Decorate your picnic area with battery-powered fairy lights, lanterns and some bunting. Get comfy with camping chairs or deck chairs, using your picnic basket as a handy side table. Music adds atmosphere (though don’t disturb people nearby), so bring a portable radio or Bluetooth speakers and a phone. Do you need shade? On a hot day you’ll appreciate a tepee, canopy or mini pop-up tent.

Use a portable barbecue for delicious food on the go. Suitcase-style barbecue, £79.95, Annabel James.

Hang pop-up paper lanterns for a fun, party atmosphere.These brightlycoloured ones cost £4.99 for a pack of five, Ginger Ray.

Keep bottles chilled with handy wine cooler, £1, Poundland.

Fill your basket with supplies and head for the great outdoors. Handwoven pom-pom basket, £30, Postcards Home.

• Bring along games that all the family can play. Rounders and croquet are great, or organise a treasure hunt, play hide and seek, or set up an oldschool egg-andspoon or sack race. • The best picnic food? Anything yummy and not too melty or messy, especially if you can eat it with your fingers. Sandwiches, mini pies, kebabs, crisps, chopped vegetables with dips, plus fruit and something sweet, for example. Use coolers and ice packs to keep everything (especially drinks) cold. 14

Get comfy with a folding chair. Mandala deck chair by Kirsten Star, £120, Art Wow.

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Picnic plates should be lightweight and unbreakable – these are made from pressed bamboo and would add a fun, festival vibe to any outdoor dining. Katie Alice Festival Folk picnicware, from a selection, Creative Tops. The best picnic rugs are easy to carry and have a waterproof backing. Pure new wool Polo picnic rug in rainbow grey stripe, £69.95, Black by Design.

Bright colours and cheerful designs will add to the enjoyable atmosphere.Talking Tables Tropical Fiesta plates, £4 for a pack of 12; and napkins, £3.50 for a pack of 20; both Ocado.

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Serious about Acting? SO ARE WE. The DJW School of Acting, offer weekly acting classes for ages 7 to 11, 12 to 15 and 16+ in Theatre, Television & Film.The School offers a diverse range of skilled workshops to enhance emerging talent, gearing students up for the industry, acting auditions and guiding those who are looking to apply for drama school entry. We invite anyone who is serious about a career in acting and for those wishing to prepare for genuine professional training in the future, or even just to make new friends and focus on confidence building and have a bit of fun whilst learning from the best, to come along and join us. The DJW School of Acting focus

on a variety of techniques and skills from Improv, Stage craft, Audition technique, creative exploration, confidence building, monologues, duologues, scenes, script breakdowns, character development. We pride ourselves on offering a unique actor training programme, with an Agency attached to help get actors into auditions for opportunities in all areas of Entertainment. The team work very closely with Industry leaders to keep up to date with industry requirements, training and castings and work closely with Casting Directors, Producers, Directors and other Actors in Television, Film and Theatre, in order to open up more opportunities for the students that attend. The DJW School of Acting was founded by local Teesside actor Daniel-John Williams who has starred in numerous theatre, television and film roles since graduating from Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in 2008. (IMDb actor) Daniel and his partner Emma Louise Teasdale also

run an actors agency alongside the school which is based at Acklam Hall, Middlesbrough called DJW Talent. Daniel has travelled the world in attendance of red carpet events, film premiers, BAFTA parties, private press junkets and has a wealth of inside industry knowledge due to his involvement with castings in theatre, television and film. www.thedjwschool.com Twitter Instagram Facebook @thedjwschool

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Inspire your wanderlust Thinking about booking a last-minute holiday? These books should help to inspire your wanderlust. (Or just transport you to distant climes while you’re lounging in your garden.)

The earth from The air – Yann arthus-Bertrand It’s been almost 20 years since Yann Arthus-Bertrand first set out to capture aerial photography of some of the most remote places on Earth. The result – The Earth From the Air – went on to sell more than 3 million copies. A new edition was released last year, which includes 100 stunning new photographs and commentary from the likes of Jane Goodall and Matthieu Ricard. Breathtaking. The Bean Trees – Barbara Kingsolver Determined to avoid ending up like her Kentucky classmates – pregnant and married before she’s 18, Taylor buys a beaten up old car and a tank of petrol, and heads west. By the time her car breaks down in Arizona, she has a three-year-old Cherokee girl in tow. First published 30 years ago, The Bean Trees beautifully evokes the landscape and spirit of 1980s Southwestern America. adventures of a Young naturalist – Sir David attenborough In 1954, David Attenborough began his exploration of the world, seeking out rare animals for London Zoo and sharing his experiences with a captive TV audience back at home. Adventures of a Young Naturalist charts his adventures across Guyana, Indonesia and Paraguay, from coming face-to-face with Komodo dragons and giant armadillos to befriending a young male orangutan. Numerous photographs help to bring the tales to life. The Road to little Dribbling – Bill Bryson In The Road to Little Dribbling, Bill Bryson sets out to explore Britain once again – 20 years after his bestselling Notes from a Small Island. Not only is it highly entertaining, but The Road to Little Dribbling is packed full of facts and wry observations.You’ll veer from rolling your eyes at Bryson’s ‘grumpy-old-man-ishness’ to vigorously nodding your head, to snorting with laughter, to booking a train ticket to explore a corner of this island you haven’t yet stumbled upon. The art of Travel – alain de Botton Alain de Botton explores the reasons why we travel and discusses how we can make the most of our experiences. He covers everything from holiday romances to hotel mini-bars. It’s a book about taking pleasure in our surroundings (however mundane) and taking the time to look, really look, at the world around us. Wanderlust: a Book club Sampler from Simon & Schuster This travel-inspired sampler is only available as a free Kindle ebook. It includes excerpts from several novels, including An Atlas of Impossible Longing by Anuradha Roy, The Distant Hours by Kate Morton and The Hundred Foot Journey by Richard Morais. Also included are the authors’ favourite travel-related memories and notes and tips for book clubs. Perfect for dipping into on a summer’s evening, Wanderlust may help you to find your next book and your next holiday destination. www.mylocal-magazine.co.uk | E: jeremy@mylocal-magazine.co.uk

How Safe is Your Suntan? Magazines may often describe people as looking ‘healthy and tanned’, but as the NHS baldly states, “There’s no safe or healthy way to get a tan.” The Problem with Suntans However light it is, however slowly you developed it, and whether you got it in your back garden, the Mediterranean or a sunbed, a tan proves your skin has received too much radiation. Around 5% of the UV (ultraviolet) radiation from sunlight is UVB, responsible for sunburn. The other 95% is UVA, responsible for tanning, aging and wrinkling the skin. UVA rays penetrate to the lower epidermis, stimulating melanin production. This brown pigment, which provides your tan, is the skin’s defence mechanism. Your skin has good reason to go into defence mode. While symptoms of skin damage can take 20 years to appear, prolonged UV exposure increases your risk of skin cancer, including its most serious form, malignant melanoma. People frequently exposed to UV rays before 25 years old or who suffered sunburn in childhood have a greatly increased risk of skin cancer later in life. The Problem with Sunbeds

World Health Organization, which classifies sunbeds as a Group 1 Carcinogen. Your risk depends on your skin type, the frequency and length of your sunbed sessions and your age. In the UK, it’s illegal for under-18s to use sunbeds. A review by the International Agency for Research on Cancer found that first exposure to sunbeds before 35 years old increases melanoma risk by 75%. Stay Safe The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends you shouldn’t use UV tanning equipment if you have:

Sunbeds, sunlamps and tanning booths emit the same harmful UV radiation as the sun, but many give out greater UV doses than the midday tropical sun.You’re also relying on manufacturers and operators to ensure you get a ‘safe’ dose.

• fair, sensitive skin that burns easily or tans poorly

The Scientific Committee on Consumer Products states the ultraviolet radiation from sunbeds shouldn’t exceed 11 standard erythema doses per hour. That’s equivalent to tropical sun exposure and ‘extreme’, according to the

• medicines or creams that make your skin light-sensitive

• badly sun-damaged skin or a history of sunburn, particularly in childhood • many moles, or many freckles and red hair

• a medical condition aggravated by sunlight, such as vitiligo • a personal or family history of skin cancer

You should also be cautious if you’re pregnant, as your skin may be more sensitive and prone to burning and pigmentation (patches of dark skin). Avoid the sun when it’s strongest (11am -3pm). Never allow yourself to burn. Cover your skin, wear a hat and wear sunglasses with adequate UVA and UVB protection. UV can damage eyes too, causing conjunctivitis, irritation or even cataracts. Use sunscreen that’s in date, with at least four-star UVA protection and an SPF of at least 15 (30 or higher if you’re fair-skinned or using it on children). Useful information: Sunbed regulation Act 2010: www. legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/20/ contents HSE guidance on the use of UV tanning equipment: www.hse.gov.uk/ pubns/misc869.pdf British Association of Dermatologists’ advice on sunbeds: www.bad.org.uk/for-the-public/skincancer/sunbeds NHS sunscreen and sun safety advice: www.nhs.uk/livewell/skin/pages/ sunsafe.aspx

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Embrace the great outdoors Every outside space, irrespective of size, has the potential to become an extra ‘room’, whether you plan to use it for tending plants, entertaining friends or relaxing in the sun. Spend time considering whether a few quick, inexpensive changes or an entire redesign will make your garden practical and beautiful. First, sketch a scale plan of the space on graph paper and decide what will go where. If revamping the landscaping ensure that the materials you use – for paving, fencing, pots, furnishings and so on – all coordinate. Set the dining area nearest the house, with space for a barbecue or a wood-fired pizza oven nearby, or even a complete outdoor kitchen. In a large garden you could fit a play area at the far end, and a peaceful area away from both the house and the children is ideal for a hammock or swing seat. Signal changes of function by altering flooring materials and changes of levels. Think about lighting early – an outdoor lighting circuit (installed by a qualified electrician) allows for flexible, effective garden lighting. Consider what features would benefit from illumination and add general lighting for the evening. Wall lights are ideal for paths and passageways, while strings of lights can be wound around trees, posts and trellises. If not starting from scratch, there are plenty of quick, inexpensive fixes, including simply re-arranging the furniture, adding a canopy or sunshade or setting out a few large plant pots. Fit a simple metal archway over a path as a focal point, or install a small wooden pergola. Refresh walls or fencing with a coat of paint – matt black and very dark blue are very on-trend. Add comfortable seating, such as deck chairs, loungers, low-level chairs or sofas covered with waterproof fabrics. Put side tables nearby, and consider outdoor bean bags, rugs

and cushions. Invest in solid, durable dining chairs and tables – secondhand is an option, and is easily disguised with paint or an oilcloth. Add plates, bowls, pitchers, tumblers and napkins in this season’s hot, tropical shades and you now have an oasis for outdoor living. Small spaces: cool spaces Tiny gardens, courtyards, decks and balconies can be wonderful places to relax. • All you really need is a couple of chairs and a small table, or built-in furniture can maximise corners and awkward spaces. • Furniture that doubles as storage can hold gardening equipment or picnic paraphernalia. • Optimise vertical space with tiered and hanging planters, even a living wall. • Paint walls white and choose reflective pots for plants. • Use battery-powered string lights or solar torches in dark corners. • Reflect light with a mirror on a sheltered wall. • Stick to a limited palette for hard landscaping, pots, furnishings and accessories.

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THE ROAMING EMPIRE How to access the internet when you’re on holiday

Internet access can be really useful when you’re travelling. Map apps can help you find your way around and others can help you get better deals on tourist attractions, discover the best places to eat and drink or avoid the worst tourist traps. But how do you actually get online without spending a fortune? The cheapest way to get online is via free Wi-Fi, which is available in all kinds of places – not just the familiar cafes and transport hubs but in malls, on public transport and anywhere else tourists are likely to go. Be wary, though, especially if you’re using your device for something private such as online banking. It’s very easy to set up a convincing-looking Wi-Fi hotspot and then intercept the data people send, such as their online banking IDs. If in doubt use a security program called a Virtual Private Network (VPN) –Tunnelbear is one example – which establishes a secure, eyes-only tunnel between you and the site you’re visiting.

Another option is to use your mobile phone to create a Wi-Fi hotspot.This enables other devices to connect to your phone and use its data connection. It’s very easy to do (the relevant option will be in your phone’s settings menu) but be careful if you have a monthly data transfer limit: using multiple devices can quickly take you beyond your monthly cap. If your phone doesn’t have this feature you can buy a “dongle” or a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot; the former plugs into your laptop’s USB port to give it mobile data access and the latter is a portable device that creates a Wi-Fi hotspot your other devices can use.

You should be particularly careful about using mobile data if you’re outside the UK and EU. Charges for mobile data abroad can be terrifying, so we’d strongly recommend buying a mobile data add-on that gives you a fixed amount of data for a fixed price.You can usually get more than enough mobile data for your daily needs for just a few pounds per day. Make sure your contract doesn’t already include roaming, though. For example, our Vodafone contract includes free roaming in 48 different countries. It doesn’t include North or South America, Africa or Asia but it covers Europe and several groups of islands.

For the time being, you won’t be charged extra for using your mobile or tablet in the European Union as roaming charges within the EU were scrapped in 2017. However, when the UK leaves Europe under Brexit, operators will no longer be compelled to let their customers roam for free. It’s possible that they may decide to stick to the current arrangement, but we’re not very optimistic. Whatever you do, be careful what you’re doing. Streaming Netflix or iPlayer programmes is best kept to Wi-Fi, as the downloads can be huge, and beware apps that do things in the background when you’re not actually using your phone.We find it’s best to keep our phones off or in aeroplane mode when we’re not actually using them.

1.Tunnelbear Virtual Private Networking app 2. Personal Hotspot on an iPhone 3.Three.co.uk USB dongle for laptops 4. Vodafone portable Wi-Fi hotspot

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The Best convertibles for Under £2,000 With summer in full swing, now might just be the time to nab yourself a drop-top car. Thankfully, you don’t need to spend a packet in order to get that wind-in-your-hair experience, so we’ve picked out some of the best convertibles for under £2,000.

car design, you still get that drop-top experience very cheaply.

adjustable seats and cruise control.

Most cars get alloy wheels and air conditioning, but make sure the folding roof functions correctly.

Toyota MR2 For no-frills,

involving motoring, the little MR2 provides exciting performance from a 1.8-litre engine, and its compact size makes it feel nimble on the road. The lack of any real boot does make it impractical but there are plenty of reasonable examples available within budget.

MG Tf Readily available and well-

priced, most MG TF’s come with a peppy 1.8-litre engine and all have a folding cloth roof. It’s still a relatively handsome looking car that seems to have aged well, and we found a number for well under our £2,000 budget.

citroen c3 Pluriel Designed

to be five cars in one, the C3 Pluriel wasn’t successful, meaning you can pick up decent used examples and, though they may not have a sports

Mercedes SlK Buying a used Mercedes can mean higher repair costs and pricier parts, so choose carefully – a decent servicing history is essential. An early 2000s SLK should be well-equipped, with electronically-

Mazda Mx-5 The MX-5 is a

reliable, cheap-to-repair convertible and is a go-to choice for those who want a relatively involving drive coupled with compact dimensions. Rust is an issue, particularly on early models, but a clean example will provide miles of trouble-free motoring.

Mini convertibleThe ‘new’

Mini has proved to be immensely popular, and the convertible version was snapped up as a result of its cutesy styling and reasonably powerful range of engines.

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Available well within our £2,000 budget, make sure that the interior is straight, and listen for strange noises from the costly-to-replace power steering pump.

Cabriolet Most Bugs come

comprehensively equipped, with air conditioning and alloy wheels just some of the extras you’ll find fitted, and the Beetle is a decent and reliable soft-top.

Audi TT Roadster There aren’t

many about in this price range, but the Audi TT Roadster is a fine option. Strong build quality, reliable engines and quirky styling mean that this softtop still looks and feels fresh today.

Saab 9-3 The 9-3 convertible is a comfortable and spacious drop-top, and there are plenty of spare parts and components available should you need replacements, despite Saab’s now defunct status. Volkswagen Beetle

BMW 3 Series Convertible (E46) There are many examples of 3 Series convertibles to be found at this budget. Most common are E46 models, which are sturdy and excellent to drive. A variety of engines are available too, with even the top end straight-six models well in this price bracket.

At this price you’ll be looking at a high-mileage example, but providing it’s got a decent service history there’s no reason why these can’t be hassle-free convertibles.

Double check the arches as these are prone to rust. In addition, turn the steering lock to lock while travelling at low speed and listen out for any troubling knocking noises.

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lethal leatherjackets

Daddy-longlegs or craneflies are starting to hatch out now – you may have

seen their dangly-legged dancing as they get into your house, clattering

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against the windows and the lights? Maybe they are not your favourite creatures – indeed, many shy away from them! But these are the adults and it is their young – known as leatherjackets – that really cause grief in gardens. If your lawn has yellowing patches on it or you’ve noticed it being ripped up in the last few weeks, chances are leatherjackets are to blame, and it is likely that the problem will get a lot worse. So what happens? Well, leatherjackets feed on the roots of grass (and can also cause problems in flowerbeds and vegetable plots) and this may cause the plants they attack to be weakened and even die back; worst of all, these juicy

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larvae are an extremely tasty snack if you happen to be an animal such as a crow, rook, magpie, badger or a fox. So as soon as there are leatherjackets in your garden, these animals come along in search of them, ripping up your lawn or excavating beds and borders in the process. Lawns are usually worst affected and can be devastated in a matter of days. What is the best way to check if you have them? Early in the evening, water a couple of the yellowed patches really thoroughly and do the same with a patch that has been ripped up. Next, cover these areas in black polythene weighed down with a couple of bricks or similar. A double layer of black bin liners will do fine or, better still, use an opened-out plastic compost bag as this is particularly thick plastic. Next morning, lift the polythene and you’ll see the pests on the soil or lawn surface. So how do you know leatherjackets are to blame? Leatherjackets are

even less goodlooking than their parents: greyish-brown, tubular, legless, up to about 4.5cm long and so nearly transparent that you can often see inside them, lunch and all. You can remove a good number by repeating this black polythene trick – then, collect up the pests and put them on the bird table where they’ll be a useful source of free and nutritious bird food. If you want a much quicker, easier and more thorough solution then I suggest you use the biological control nematode ‘Nemasys Leatherjacket Killer’. It is quick and easy to apply – I just use a watering can and water it onto the affected area shortly after I’ve seen the

first daddy-longlegs and when soil conditions are right, so usually late August to late October. As long as you keep the area moist for about three or four weeks, it works a treat – and is even safe if you have a dog, pet rabbit or other pets (or kids!) who use the lawn. So how can you get hold of this? There are two pack sizes available, suitable for standard lawns or those with a very large area to cover but you won’t find them in garden centres as they have a short shelf life. You can, however, find out more and order them from www. pippagreenwood.com/products in the Protect Your Plants section. We’ll send them out by first class post in an insulated envelope for you to show those pesky leatherjackets who’s the boss! Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com and you’ll ﬁnd some great gardening items: Nemaslug, green controls for leatherjackets, chafer grubs, ants and greenﬂy, plus garden plant supports, raised bed kits, Easy-Tunnels, gardening tools, Grower Frames, signed books and more! You can even book Pippa for a gardening talk at your local gardening club.

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