Mature Living Magazine July 2012

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE July 2012

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE OLDER, BOLDER INDIVIDUAL

The man who said NO to cancer Budget savvy London Will you live to 100?

Ladies’ Day at the Galway Races Preventing and Reversing Diabetes

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Contents

www.matureliving.ie

July 2012

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ITH July upon us, there are, thankfully, some chinks of light appearing on the economic front.

Let’s hope these are not frittered away through political wrangling in Europe. It is festival time in our communities and we hope elders of all ages will get an opportunity to enjoy the music, drama, sport, culture and, most important, the chance to enjoy the company of friends.

At Mature Living we would like you to enter two important dates on your calendar – 7th and 8th September, 2012. These are the dates for our inaugural Mature Living Exhibition which will be held, in conjunction with Forever Expos, at the TF Royal in Castlebar. As far as we are aware, this will be the first exhibition of its kind in the west specifically planned to benefit people over the age of 50. The exhibition itself will be dotted with stands from exhibitors who have many products and services ideally suitable for this demographic. But visitors to the exhibition/show will be treated to a range of additional services and attractions, e.g. Antique Valuations, Fashion Shows, Health Checks, Investment/Money advice, Alternative Therapies, Job Opportunities, Afternoon Tea Dance, Music, Lectures, Competitions, etc., etc. Check out further details inside in this and the August issue of Mature Living. A piece of good advice to all Active Retirement groups: put the 7th and 8th September in your diary now and make plans for a memorable weekend in Castlebar.

In this issue Stella Carroll interviews one of Ireland’s most popular entertainers, the Sligo man with a golden voice, Tommy Fleming. Niamh Flynn speaks to Liam Ryan, a Westmeath native with a truly remarkable and inspirational story to tell – a story of survival against all the odds. We offer first-class advice to those who aspire to live to 100 – a milestone which an increasing number of people are managing to achieve. In our Travel Section we highlight what is available for free in London, a city which might have a reputation for being tough when it comes to keeping within a budget. We continue to provide good eye health advice and recommend some of the best foods to maintain healthy eyes and good eyesight. We give some valuable advice on preventing and reversing diabetes. Niamh Flynn, in a further interview with neurologist Andreas Jahkne, provides valuable information, in addition to some early signs and symptoms for strokes – an article well worth reading particularly for those who suffer from hypertension or related heart conditions.

We take the opportunity to thank our many readers for their complimentary letters and e-mails concerning our publication. It is very encouraging and provides us with the impetus to provide an even better service in the months ahead. If you would like to be included in our growing list of subscribers please contact our office or fill in the Subscription Form included with this issue.

Once again, I would like to remind you if your group or organisation wishes to receive bulk deliveries of Mature Living please send your request to seamus@matureliving.ie or post it to: Mature Living, Office 3, Unit 7, Northwest Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo. We also welcome input from your organisation and if you would like to have articles or photographs of recent events highlighted please send them to the same address, seamus@matureliving.ie.

Any photos that you may have of a colleague’s retirement can be sent to the same address. Our next issue will be available on August 16th and the deadline for submissions is 9th of August.

News One-on-One with Tommy Fleming Claudia McGloin The Advent of Super Dentistry Suicide Prevention A Personalized experience for those with Alzheimer’s Disease Will you live to 100?

The man who said NO to cancer Strokes – Prevention & Treatment Preventing and Reversing Diabetes Fashion at Galway Races The Bands of our Showband Era: The Magic Band Budget-savvy London Improve your health, with Taoist Tai Chi Best foods for healthy eyes The dog days of summer Competition Keeping Your Nest Safe & Secure During Summer Holidays The Lake Isle of Innisfree Hotels Spot the Ball Services Directory Dating: Meeting Place

Seamus Casey - Editor Editor: Seamus Casey seamus@matureliving.ie Advertising: Lisa Gilmartin lisa@matureliving.ie Production & Design: Stephen Finney steve@matureliving.ie

Published by: IBS Publishing Riverview House, Barrett Street, Ballina, Co. Mayo and Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo.

Tel/Fax: 071-9154538 / 096-77743 Web: www.matureliving.ie • Email: info@matureliving.ie

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News

Get up and away from TV and live longer

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utting down on time spent sitting down could lengthen your life by two years, according to US researchers.

They suggest that reducing sitting time to under three hours every day will add a whole two years to your lifespan.

Furthermore, watching TV for less than two hours a day might add an extra 1.4 years.

Spending long periods of time sitting down and/or watching TV has long been linked to poor health (including conditions such as diabetes), and death from heart disease or stroke.

To further examine this, researchers in the US trawled through published studies on sitting

time and deaths from all causes.

These studies involved almost 167,000 adults. Included in this was data collected for the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to calculate the amount of time US adults spent watching TV and sitting down on a daily basis. NHANES regularly surveys a large representative sample of the US population on various aspects of their health and ifestyle.They used these figures to calculate the number of deaths associated with time spent sitting down and discovered that deaths from all causes linked to sitting time and TV viewing were 27% and 19%, respectively.

The results of life table analyses

indicates that cutting the amount of time spent sitting down every day to under three hours would add an extra two years to life expectancy.

Similarly, restricting time spent watching TV to under two hours daily would extend life expectancy by an extra 1.38 years.

The experts believe that the evidence demonstrated the detrimental effect of a sedentary lifestyle on health.

And they caution that their findings should not be interpreted as meaning that someone who leads a more sedentary lifestyle can expect to live two or 1.4 years less than someone who is more active.

"Given that the results from objective monitoring of sedentary time in NHANES has indicated that adults spend an average of 55% of their day engaged in sedentary pursuits, a significant shift in behaviour change at the population level is required to make demonstrable improvements in life expectancy," they conclude.

Further research will be required before recommendations on safe levels of sedentary behaviour can be made, they added.

The research was carried out by Dr Peter Katzmarzyk and Prof I-Min Lee from the Pennington Biomedical Research Centre in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Subscribe to

Due to the massive uptake on the recent issues of Mature Living Magazine, not everyone could be guaranteed a free copy in their local outlet. However we now offer a subscription service for just €35 per year.

Run with Age Action in New York Marathon AGE Action is seeking runners and walkers to take part in one of the world’s largest participatory sporting events – the ING New York Marathon in November.

Last year 47,000 runners, joggers and walkers took part in the spectacular event, with an estimated two million people lining the streets, and 130 bands adding to the carnival atmosphere along the route.

This year’s marathon takes place on Sunday, November 4th. Age Action is offering a specially tailored package for runners and their non-running partners, aimed at creating a memorable experience, and raising much needed funds for Ireland’s leading charity for older people.

In addition to a guaranteed race entry, the Age Action package includes: return flights, airport transfers; four or five night packages in a four-star hotel in downtown Manhattan; private bus transfer to the starting line in Staten Island; pre-race pasta party; post-race party and disco; a celebration dinner the following night; official marathon t-shirt, medal and race certificate.

“If you run one marathon in your life, New York is the one to do,” according to Age Action fund raiser Mark Duggan, who is a veteran of eight marathons (including New York). The race route winds its way through the five city boroughs of Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx and Manhattan, crossing five bridges, and providing some amazing views of the city, before finishing in Central Park.

“The four miles along Manhattan’s 1st Avenue is unforgettable, with the crowds 10-deep at the barriers and huge cheers from the Irish pubs each time an Irish runner passes by,” Mark said.

The marathon is also suitable for fit walkers as participants are allowed eight hours to complete the course.

Places for the Age Action package are limited. To find out more details contact Mark Duggan at 01-4756989 or markd@ageaction.ie

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ature Living is full to the brim with information on events, finance, travel, pets, food and drink, health, hobbies and much much more! For just €35 (to cover postage and admin costs) you can have Mature Living delivered to your door.

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Last month’s lucky winner was Ollie Bryan of Navan Road, Dublin, who has won a midweek night break plus a boat trip in the excellent Sheraton Hotel, Athlone.

Internationally Trained Urologist at St Joseph's Hospital Sligo St Joseph’s Hospital Garden Hill is delighted to announce that Mr Nicholas Hegarty Consultant Urologist – F.R.C.S.I, F.R.C.S (UROL) PhD has recently been granted admitting and operating privileges at the Hospital.

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Mr Nicholas Hegarty Consultant Urologist with Mark Towey, Chief Executive Officer, St Joseph's Hospital Garden Hill Sligo, on his first day at the Hospital last week.

ark Towey Chief Executive Officer outlined that “Mr Hegarty is an internationally trained urologist having trained in Ireland he graduated in University College Cork. He completed the Western Prefellowship Training Scheme in Surgery, working in Sligo General Hospital and University College Hospital Galway. He completed a PhD in University College Dublin”. Following his training Mr Hegarty spent 2 fellowship years in the world renowned Cleveland Clinic. He was appointed Consultant Urologist in Guy’s & St. Thomas’ Hospitals, London in 2006.

In 2011 Mr Hegarty returned to Ireland to take up a Consultant Urologist post in the Mater Private Hospital in Dublin where he currently practices.

Mr Towey explained that “services that will be provided at St Joseph’s Hospital by Mr Hegarty include comprehensive outpatient evaluation of key urological symptoms. Treatments that will be available at St Joseph’s Hospital include flexible & rigid cystoscopy and surgery. More complex treatments / surgeries will be performed in Dublin and all cancers diagnosed will be referred for discussion at the multidisciplinary team meetings”. Letters of referral or further information for Mr Hegarty can be got by contacting the hospital on (Phone 071 9190368 Fax 071 9190396) or email stjosephs@mcm.ie

News

Ageism still a major problem in Ireland

A

ge discrimination continues to be a significant problem in Ireland, with age being the grounds for a substantial proportion of complaints processed by the Equality Authority last year.

Age was the grounds for 23% of complaints under the Equal Status Act processed by the Authority last year, and 17% of cases under the Employment Equality Act, according to the Equality Authority’s Annual Report 2011, published today.

“The fact that complaints on grounds of age were the second largest category of cases under the Equal Status Act and the third largest when it comes to employment equality, shows the challenges which we face if Ireland is to become a truly agefriendly society,” Age Action spokesman Eamon Timmins said.

The national charity for older people praised the huge contribution which the Equality

Authority had made to challenging age discrimination.

“The authority has been fearless in supporting the rights of all who are protected by Ireland’s equality legislation, and we hope the new organisation, following the merger of the Human Rights Commission and the Equality Authority, will continue this essential task with the same vigor,” Mr Timmins said. The Equality Authority is in the process of being merged with the Irish Human Rights Commission.

Age Action welcomes the fact that age features so prominently among the cases processed by the Equality Authority last year.

“While it continues to be a cause for concern that employers and service providers discriminate on grounds of age, it is encouraging that significant numbers of older people are now challenging this behaviour and are using the laws which are there to protect them,” Mr Timmins added.

Being overweight does not increase death risk ACCORDING to US experts extra weight in itself does not necessarily mean that people have a higher risk of death. This will probably come as comforting news for those who are overweight but generally in good health.

Researchers at the University of California (UC), Davis, have found that, compared to those with normal weight, people who were overweight or obese had no increased risk of death during a follow-up period of six years.

However, people who were severely obese did have a higher risk of dying, but only if they also had diabetes or hypertension.

"There is currently a widespread belief that any degree of overweight or obesity increases the risk of death, however our findings suggest this may not be the case," said Anthony Jerant, professor of family and community medicine at UC Davis, and lead author of the study.

"In the six-year timeframe of our evaluation, we found that only severe obesity was associated with an increased risk of death, due to co-occurring diabetes and hypertension."

Prof Jerant recommends that doctors' conversations with patients who are overweight or obese (but not severely obese) focus on the known negative effects of these conditions on mental and physical functioning, rather than on an increased short-term risk of death.

However, it is important for doctors to talk with severely obese patients who also have diabetes or hypertension about their increased short-term risk of dying and treatment, including weight loss.

"Our results do not mean that being overweight or obese is not a threat to individual or public health," said Prof Jerant. "These conditions can have a significant impact on quality of life, and for this reason alone weight loss may be advisable."

The study focused on 51,000 adults (aged 18

Page 6 Mature Living July 2012

to 90 years), who participated in the Medical Expenditure Panel Surveys, which included information on health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.

The study participants were categorised according to their body mass index (BMI): underweight (BMI < 20), normal weight (BMI 20 to < 25), overweight (BMI 25 to < 30), obese (BMI 30 to 35) or severely obese (BMI > 35).

Of everyone involved in the study, just over 3% (1,683) died during the six year follow-up period. The research found that severely obese people were 1.26 times more likely to die during follow-up than people in the normal weight group. However, if people with diabetes or hypertension were eliminated from the data, those who were overweight, obese or even severely obese had similar or even lower death rates than people of normal weight. Consistent with a number of prior studies, underweight people were nearly twice as likely to die than people with normal weight, regardless of whether diabetes or hypertension was present.

In addition to diabetes and hypertension, health problems associated with overweight and obesity include heart disease, osteoarthritis and sleep apnea.

"Our findings indicate that the risk of having an above-normal BMI may be lower than in the past," said Prof Jerant. "While this study cannot explain the reasons, it is possible that as overweight and obesity have become more common, physicians have become more aware of associated health issues like high blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, and are more aggressive about early detection and treatment of these conditions."

The research is published in the July-August issue of the Journal of American Board of Family Medicine.

Six bands for Retirement Rates from September 1st AT present there is only a small difference between the maximum rate of the State Pension (Contributory and Transition) and the reduced rate payable to people who have an average of at least 20 contributions a year or 24 for the transition pension.

From September 1st 2012 there will be 6 rate bands instead of 4 and these rates will apply to people who become entitled to a pension on or after September 2012.

Contributory

Amount of pension paid

48 or more

€230.30 (no change)

40-47

€225.80 (no change)

30-39

€207.00

20-29

€196.00

15-19

€150.00

10-14

€92.00

Note: Pensioners who are entitled to pensions before 1st September 2012 will not be affected by these changes.

For further information contact: Citizens Information lo-call 1890 777121

News

Digital TV Switchover date getting closer Knockmore/Rathduff Centre assisting changeover in Mayo

Caroline Wilson pictured with veteran broadcaster Gay Byrne

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ommunity organisations in County Mayo and around the country have been gearing up to assist older and more isolated people to make the switch to digital television. As the analogue signal for receiving TV will be switched off on 24th October, viewers who use an aerial will need to take action so they will continue to receive a TV signal after that date. While most people are expected to get around to it, a new Community Outreach programme, initiated by the Department of Communications, is targeting people who, for whatever reason, are less likely to make the change in time. These people may be older, live in more isolated areas and possibly live alone.

Caroline Wilson is the Digital Outreach Champion for the Mayo county, working with Knockmore/Rathduff Resource Centre. She is coordinating with a wide range of organisations to help create greater awareness and understanding of the Digital Switchover in this area and right around the county. Volunteers from these organisations will identify people who might have difficulty Page 8 Mature Living July 2012

making the switch and will assist them to do so. Time is running out, with just over three months to go to changeover.

Caroline Wilson said that she believed that a huge community effort is needed. “We need to make sure that people are not afraid of this change. We will all benefit: for example we’ll get a clear and more consistent picture on our televisions. It’s actually very easy to make the switch. For people that get their TV service through a Pay-TV provider over satellite or cable, they don’t need to worry about their own TV service. But if you get your TV through an aerial, you need to either get SAORVIEW or Pay-TV. A SAORVIEW-approved settop box, or a SAORVIEW-approved new television, will mean you can continue to get the Irish channels for free. Or you could get Pay-TV with a monthly bill from a provider such as Sky or UPC.” She continued “But even if you’ve sorted out your own TV service, your neighbours or friends may need assistance. We need people to get involved in helping people in their own community: volunteers who

already know the people in the area that may need some help and are in a position to reach them. We’re all going to work hard right up to 24th October, relying on the deeply ingrained Irish tradition of caring for our neighbours. We need to make sure that nobody gets left behind.”

The Community Outreach Switchover Programme is being run in every county and is a partnership between The Wheel, an umbrella body for the community and voluntary sector, and the leading voice for rural Ireland, Irish Rural Link, with funding from the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.

Caroline Wilson and Knockmore/Rathduff Resource Centre were chosen following a competitive selection process and undertook training in early March.

Caroline Wilson continued: “Knockmore/Rathduff Resource Centre is delighted to be involved in the programme. Television is an important part of people’s lives, particularly those who are living alone or in isolated locations. I’d love to hear from people and organisations who would like to get involved in this exciting effort. We know there are lots of people out there who care. This programme is based on providing simple and clear information to the target group, giving them practical help without having to get technical”.

Community and voluntary organisations in Mayo held events to encourage people to make the switch to digital TV as part of the “Reach Out and Switch Over” week from 25th June to 1st July. They provided information and advice to people on how they can switch to a digital TV service before the analogue signal is turned off.

Local community and voluntary groups, clubs and associations are encouraged to get involved, if they have not done so already, by distributing information and hosting their own information events.

Information on digital switchover is available at 1890 940 980 or online at www.goingdigital.ie .

Local groups, clubs and associations can contact their local Digital Outreach Champion, Caroline Wilson on 086 2899296 or wcaroline79@gmail.com Oct 24th 2012 is the official date of the completion of Digital Switchover in Ireland

Minister on record with commitment on National Positive Ageing Strategy MINISTER Kathleen Lynch TD recently went on the record with a commitment in the Seanad to publish the National Positive Ageing Strategy during 2012, the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations.

Patricia Conboy, Director of Older & Bolder welcomed the commitment saying “The Minister has responded to older people and their advocates who have campaigned for six long years for the publication of a National Positive Ageing Strategy. This campaign has been sustained through two Programmes for Government and over the tenure of three Ministers for Older People. Older & Bolder was delighted to hear Minister Lynch say on the public record that she is convinced she will publish the strategy by October 2012.

The Minister made her commitment at a Seanad debate on the rights of older people.

Ms. Conboy added “The fact that there was cross-party and Independent support during the Seanad debate for urgent action on the National Positive Ageing Strategy is especially encouraging. Right now a planned approach to population ageing is vital. With reduced resources, Government cannot afford to make poor decisions.”

Positive Ageing Week POSITIVE Ageing Week takes place this year between 28th September and 6th October. Positive Ageing Week is a festival which highlights the positive aspects of ageing and celebrates the contribution older people have made and continue to make to their communities.

The central aim of Positive Ageing Week is to dispel the many negative perceptions that surround ageing and to transform attitudes towards ageing and older people. It celebrates the fact that people are living longer, and aging is not a burden but an opportunity.

Age Action Ireland coordinates Positive Ageing Week. Events and activities are organised by active retirement groups, local voluntary groups, nursing homes, libraries, commercial organisations and individual older people themselves. This is the 10th year Age Action has marked UN International Day of Older Persons (1 Oct) and each year Positive Ageing Week has become bigger and better. Last year over 1000-recorded events took place in the 26 counties and this year it is hoped to increase the number to at least 1350, including many from across the border.

In the Next issue...

Street Hypnosis simple persuasion In our August issue Niamh Flynn speaks to popular street hypnotist Seamus Mahon, who also holds workshops and shares his hypnotic skills with the general public.

Seamus’ next Street Hypnosis Workshop is in Galway on August 11th and 12th. He can be contacted at seamus.a1@hotmail.co.uk.

Niamh Flynn of Bodywatch can be contacted at 091-720145, www.hypnosistrainingireland.ie or www.bodywatch.ie.

Feature by Stella Carroll

Tommy Fleming The Best is Yet to Come!

Irelands' living legends, like Mary Black, Dolores Keane and Paul Brady. But it is as a solo artiste that Tommy really shines. He has a formidable back catalogue of 11 albums and his concerts are known for their energy, inspiring music and gentle banter with audiences.

In 1998, Tommy was returning from a concert, and was almost home, when his car veered off the road and hit a tree. He lost consciousness and was very luck to escape when the car burst into flames. This dramatic accident had a profound effect on

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ommy Fleming has a gentle soft wit about him. He is a funny, friendly and unassuming guy, who, if asked, would probably describe himself as 'ordinary'. His fans say otherwise, He is known as a hard working entertainer whose concerts are uplifting in both song and in witty repartee; he has established himself as a solo artist, best known for singing traditional Irish music,both old and contemporary, in his forceful and dynamic voice tenor.

Tommy was born in 1971, in Aclare Co Sligo into the loving arms of Annie and Paddy Fleming. The youngest of six children, he was doted on by his siblings. “We were all steps and stairs and being the baby, I was totally ruined by the others. I hate to say that we had an idyllic childhood... It sounds like such a cliché, but we were happy out! Dad had to go away for work sometimes and there were not a lot of riches about. But you got your bits at Christmas, or a second-hand bike and we knew how to make our own fun. I do wonder sometimes, how my parents managed to provide for us all, but we had no real sense of things being tough, whatever we Page 10 Mature Living July 2012

“I think it’s hard to make big changes in the world, so we all have to work on the small ones. “ got, it was given with love.” Music was the background to his childhood, with albums from artistes as diverse as Shirley Bassey, Ceili bands and the Carpenters playing constantly at home. A natural singer, Tommy was soon taking part in local concerts and talent competitions from and early age.

Phil Coulter gave Tommy his big break in 1993. Phil heard him sing at a charity event in Westport and within days, he was 'guesting' with his orchestra at the Opera House in Cork... He was lead vocalist with Galway Group, De Danna, for a while and collaborated with many of

Tommy both personally and professionally. His neck was broken and he wore a 'Jacob's Halo' for some time, This complicated brace kept the head and neck still while the body mended, but made normal life and simple tasks a challenge. With a string of cancelled concerts, constant pain and the worry that his career might be over, this was a dark and introspective time for Tommy.

Peter Kenny, MD of Indi Entertainment and Sinead O Connor of RTE presenting Tommy with a platinum Disc for sales of the "Going Back" CD & DVD in 2011

“Whatever we got, it was given with love.”

“I think people will enjoy the book, it’s gentle, amusing and from the heart”.

Today, with the benefit of fourteen years hindsight, he has a philosophical attitude. “It's strange to say it, but it was probably the best thing that happened to me. It was a wake up call. When something as traumatic as that happens, you learn lessons, tough lessons. It was a time when true friends really proved their worth and at the end of it all, I thank God that I have the full use of my body”. The album 'Restless Spirit’, which Tommy had been promoting at the time of the accident, went platinum during his recovery. One year later, he was back on the road, with renewed enthusiasm, refreshed optimism and his customary good humour.

Tommy met Tina, a couple of times before they began dating. 'We knew each other to see, but we never really got chatting until we both attended the funeral of a mutual friend” Tommy laughs. Some ten

years later, they have two children, and life is busy and happy in the Fleming household. “We got married in 2006, and I released the album 'A life like Mine' on our wedding day.

We are partners in everything really, the kids and the business. Tina is very organised and we have no record company or manager, but look after it all ourselves. To be honest, we like it this way.”

2012 has been an emotional year for Tommy. In April, his beloved parents died within hours of each other. This double loss was devastating for Tommy and his close knit family. He took three and a half months off work “I was nearly climbing the walls in the second month. Now, I am probably busier than I have been in years. There is a new album to be released in the autumn, a TV documentary in the making and I am writing my own songs for the first time too. I am currently recording the new CD 'Begin' which will be released in November.” Tommy has also been commissioned to write a book, due for release in October. He stresses that it is not an autobiography “I know lots of people, have written autobiographies, but it’s not for me, not yet. It would feel as if I was hanging up the boots. For me, it would be the soft headstone and I have a lot to do yet!” The book is a collection of anecdotal stories about his life in music. “This is a new

experience for me, I love it but it is not easy. Every day I sit and write from a couple of hours in the afternoon and if it is flowing easy enough, I will stay and do a bit more. It will be more of a coffee table book, interspersed with photographs, and it’s quite funny in parts. Of course, there are constant references to my parents, so it is emotional, but not maudling” He smiles, “I have been talking it over with my brothers and sisters, sharing parts and we feel it will be a nice memorial to them too. I think people will enjoy it. It is gentle, amusing and from the heart.”

Tommy is delighted to be so busy.

He is thriving on it. There are

concerts in the offing too. An autumn tour of Australia will see him back in Ireland, just in time for a special Christmas concert, in the Knocknarea arena. Sligo. It seems strange to ask a man with a work load this big, if he has any plans for the future, but typically, Tommy is looking ahead. “I have been thinking that I might like to go back to Africa, with Tina by my side this time.”

Tommy volunteered with GOAL in the Sudan in 2000 and worked at a field hospital for six months. “It would be good to go back and see how things are. I think it’s hard to make big changes in the world, so we all have to work on the small ones.” In the meantime, the song writing is a wonderful new challenge and the writing is mentally draining but rewarding. I will be happy to go back to touring and that incredible interaction with an audience.”

8th December 2012. Christmas Concert with Irish Concert Orchestra at Knocknarea Arena, Sligo Check www.tommyfleming.com for details of other upcoming concerts.

Page 11 Mature Living July 2012

The

Forever Expos Present

Exhibition

www.maturelivingexpo.ie

E T A M I T L THE U

• Fashion Show • Genealogy • Health Checks • Investment Advice • Alternative Therapies • Job Expo • Legal Advice • Crafts & Baking • Afternoon Tea Dance ..... to name but a few!

• Health testing and monitoring • Antique valuations • Home Improvement • Holidays • Retirement villages • Recruitment Opportunities • Motoring • Golf lessons from PGA professionals • Gardening • Cosmetic procedures • Computing and Internet tuition • Personal finance • Property • and much, much more!

Bring a Friend for FREE The Royal Theatre, Castlebar

FOR O W T ITS ONE M D A S THI PRICE OF THE

Fri 7th Sept 11am - 8pm Sat 8th Sept 10am - 6pm Present this voucher at the door to recieve your discount.

Voucher Valid on Friday 7th & Saturday 8th Sept 2012

SHOW

Fri 7th Sept Sat 8th Sept

at the

Email us at info@maturelivingexpo.ie to recieve your Bring a Friend for Free Coupon

Entry €5 Per Person

To Book a stand call Seamus: 071-9154538 or Shelley: 094-9023111

Feature by Claudia McGloin - Advanced Nurse Practitioner

The Skin and ageing

The skin is the largest organ of the body and accounts for about 16 per cent of a person’s total body weight. It has a surface area of about 1.7 square meters and contains about one third of the total circulating blood volume. There are variations of the skins thickness on different parts of the body e.g. the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands are thicker while the skin of the eyelids is much thinner.

Intrinsic Aging which is also known as the Natural Aging Process, is a continuous process that normally begins in our mid 20’s but is typically not visible for decades.

T

he skin is made up of the following layers – the Epidermis, the Dermis and the Subcutaneous Layer. Each of these layers performs a specific function. A brief outline of these is below.

The Epidermis is the thin outer layer of the skin which consists of five parts - the Outer Stratum Corneum, the Stratum Lucidum, the Stratum Granulosum, the Stratum Spinosum, and the Stratum Germinativum or Basal Layer. The Epidermis is avascular, waterproof and contains Melanocytes which are Cells that produce Melanin (Skin Pigment).

The Dermis is the middle layer of the skin and is the thickest layer. It contains Blood Vessels, Lymph Vessels, Hair Follicles, Sweat Glands, Collagen Bundles, Fibroblasts and Nerves. The Dermis is held together by a protein called Collagen. This layer gives skin flexibility and strength and it also contains pain and touch receptors.

The Subcutaneous Layer is the deepest layer of the skin. It consists of a network of Collagen and Fat Cells and helps conserve the body's heat and protects the body from injury by acting as a "Shock Absorber."

The Functions of the Skin are to: • Provide a Protective Barrier.

• Excrete small amounts of salt, water and waste such as Urea.

• Reduce harmful effects of UV Radiation.

• Act as a Sensory Organ (touch, detects temperature).

• Help Regulate Temperature.

• Detect Infections.

• Produce Vitamin D. Ageing and the Skin There are two types of aging. Aging caused by the genes we inherit is called Intrinsic Aging.

The other type of aging is known as Extrinsic Aging and is caused by Environmental Factors such as exposure to the sun’s rays.

The signs of Intrinsic Aging are: * Fine wrinkles * Thin and transparent skin * Loss of underlying fat, leading to hollowed cheeks and eye sockets as well as noticeable loss of firmness on the hands and neck * Bones shrink away from the skin due to bone loss, which causes sagging skin * Dry skin that may itch * Inability to sweat sufficiently to cool the skin * Greying hair that eventually turns white * Hair loss * Unwanted hair * Nail plate thins, the half-moons disappear, and ridges develops.

As a person ages the Epidermal Cells become thinner making the skin look noticeably thinner. The decreased stickiness of the cells decreases the effectiveness of the barrier function allowing moisture to be released instead of being kept in the skin and causes dryness. The number of Epidermal Cells decreases by 10% per decade and they divide more slowly as we age making the skin less able to repair itself as quick.

The effects of aging on the Dermal Layer are significant. Not only does the Dermal Layer thin but less Collagen is produced and the Elastin Fibres that provide elasticity wear out. These changes in the skin cause the skin to wrinkle and sag.

Sebaceous Glands get bigger but produce less Sebum and the number of sweat glands decreases which also lead to skin dryness.

The Dermal-Epidermal Junction flattens out, making the skin more fragile and making it easier for the skin to shear. This process also decreases the amount of nutrients available to the Epidermis by decreasing the surface area in contact with the Dermis, also interfering with the skin's normal repair process.

In the Subcutaneous Layer the fat cells get smaller with age. This leads to more noticeable wrinkles and sagging, as the fat cells cannot "fill in" the damage from the other layers.

loses its youthful fullness. Fillers can replace lost volume in our face and hands. Dermal Fillers offer immediate results and no downtime.

• Chemical Skin Peels - This procedure peels away many visible signs of aging on the face, hands, neck, and chest. After the skin heals, fewer wrinkles, less discoloration, and improved texture may be seen.

• Mesotherapy - Micro Injections of a specially prepared medical solution are injected into the skin. It can eliminate Cellulite, reduce Fat, Promote weight loss and treat aging skin.

• Genuine Dermaroller – Medical Skin Needling that rejuvenates the skin and can significantly reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, aged and sun damaged skin, stretch marks and scars.

• Medical Skin Care Products – To protect, stimulate and repair the skin.

• Advanced Cosmetic Procedures – Using Electrolysis to remove fibrous and vascular skin blemishes such as

red veins, spider veins, blood spots, skin tags, warts, seborrhoeic warts, milia (whiteheads), pigmentation patches and many other marks or lumps and bumps on the skin.

Next issues Claudia McGloin a Advanced nurse practioner will be giving more advice on various treatments that are available for different ailments.

Should you wish to contact her, you can call 071-9140728

Cosmetic Procedures for Aging Skin Skin Rejuvenation ranges from topically applied "cosmeceuticals" to Non-Surgical and Surgical Procedures.

Some of the treatments available are: • Dermal Fillers - As we age, our skin Page 13 Mature Living July 2012

Feature by Sonya Hamill of Blue Apple Dental

The Advent of Super Dentistry W

hat do the new dental technologies mean for you? The development of technology in dentistry has been rapid and dramatic in recent years. And the reaching out of these technologies into regional dental practices is gaining speedy momentum. At Blueapple we have always been committed to embracing technologies which advance the service and treatments we offer, with our motto being ‘for the good of the patient.’

Here I have selected a few of the most commonly used advanced dental products out there, digital x-ray imaging, 3D Scanning, Cerec restorations and dental implants.

Digital x-ray & 3D Scanning: Digital x-ray is quickly becoming the norm in modern dental practice.

What does digital x-ray offer you as a patient? The most patient friendly aspect of this service is the very low dosage of radiation. In terms of your experience in the dental chair, the speed with which the image instantly flicks onto the screen means no waiting around for images to develop. In terms of patient advantage, I feel this is an all round winner!

At Blueapple we have recently introduced the latest technology in digital x-ray, with our 3D scanner.

Although these are still scarce on the ground, being able to see dental images in 3D brings advanced dentistry into another realm. A machine like ours has the added advantage of being able to take images of a small area of your mouth in isolation, rather than necessarily needing to scan a full jaw.

In terms of advantages for you the patient, there are many: A) 3D images add an extra layer of predictability for advanced dentistry, as we have all the information at our finger tips. B) people who previously

by conventional means thought they had not enough bone for dental implants can be scanned for much more accurate information. This is already leading to more people being able to predictably overcome their dental problems. C) When a patient is able to really see the issues in 3D, this makes it much easier to understand the steps you need to take to resolve a problem. D) digital 3D scanning has a much lower radiation dosage than conventional 3D scans. This makes this a very user friendly, flexible piece of equipment which can be judiciously used for a variety of dental situations.

Cerec – One Visit Crowns Cerec is another really exciting piece of equipment. We have had ours for a number of years now, and have always been very impressed by the service we can offer our patients through its use. A Cerec machine is basically specialist computer software with a digital link up to a milling machine which carves a dental restoration there and then. While the machine is digital in nature, there is a fair amount of dentist skill required in using it to its fullest potential.

Firstly, the tooth is prepared for a crown or inlay as it normally is. Then the tooth is digitally scanned with a small camera. This information then reproduces the scanned image of the tooth into the computer, which you will see appear beside the dental chair. The dentist then designs the new crown while you watch, before digitally sending it through to the milling machine.

A block of strong, dental ceramic which matches your tooth colour is set into the machine, and within a few minutes the crown is ready to be fitted.

There are a number of advantages, A) The tooth is prepared and the

crown fitted in one visit, which means less appointments and time saved for you, B) No dental impressions are needed, as the tooth is digitally scanned, C) Because everything is digitally analysed and the crown is made from one solid block, we find these restorations typically fit fantastically, look great, and are long lasting and reliable.

Dental Implants: It will be no surprise to anyone that I think dental implants offer a better solution to a whole range of dental problems. It is my treatment of choice for myself (indeed, I do have one), and the one I would recommend to my friends and family. A dental implant is essentially a small titanium screw which when a tooth is lost is put in the place where the tooth root once was. The jaw bone then rapidly grows around it and makes it a secure foundation for replacing lost teeth.

As with many things, the success of dental implant treatment is heavily reliant on the skill and experience of the surgeon.

What are the benefits of dental implants for you? A) It can be used for a wide variety of dental problems, from losing one tooth, to replacing a whole jaw of teeth, to placing a couple of implants which you can clip a denture snugly onto. B) You do not need to rely on surrounding teeth for support, as you would with a conventional dental bridge for example. C) It enables you to plan for the future. A healthy implant can be used again if you lose further teeth e.g. you may use it to replace a single tooth now, but in the future you could use it to help hold an implant bridge if you lose further teeth in that area.

Is it just reinventing the wheel?

So these are just a few of the dental technologies which can make a tangi-

ble difference to you as a patient today. I haven’t even touched on the many new items which have been introduced for behind the scenes to make dental practices amazingly safe medical destinations.

But there are a lot of products and machines out there in the market place. In order to give you an idea, there are thousands of types of dental implant. So as careful dental professionals, we need to make choices about what is in the best interest of our patients. The type of questions we ask ourselves are Q. Does it equal or improve on what has come before?

Q. Does it offer a significant advantage to the patient in terms of experience and result? Q. (Probably the most important one for everyone involved) Is there sound, clinical evidence that this works and provides long term results? When the answers to these questions is ‘yes’, then dentistry continues to strive forward in the care of its patients.

‘Blueapple Dental & Implant Team’ is an award-winning dental practice in the village of Belcoo in Co. Fermanagh, run by husband and wife team, James and Sonya Hamill.

Blueapple carries out all forms of dentistry under one roof, and focuses on helping people overcome their dental challenges, to re-establish their dental health, comfort and beauty. They believe that there is no-one they can’t help regain their dental confidence.

‘Blueapple Dental & Implant Team’ has won multiple awards, including ‘Best New Practice’, ‘Best Young Dentist in the UK & Ireland’, and most recently ‘Best Patient Care in Ireland 2012’.

www.blueappledental.com

Blueapple welcomes new patients.

Just call 048 66386111 to make an appointment for your consultation.

‘Such encouragement and support I have never experienced before and empowered me to complete the procedure without sedation….My trust in Blueapple across all aspects of my dental experience is always upheld each time I visit the practice. I cannot emphasise enough the transformation that has occurred in my life in terms of panic and anxiety. ‘ An anxious patient, Sligo.

Outdoor Fitness - Visit us online www.outfit.ie

Outdoor Fitness

T

his month we are going to look at some ways to get the very most out of your time spent exercising. Let’s face it; there are very few people who actually enjoy the act of exercising. It is hard work (at least, it should be!), it takes up your free time and often it can be a number of weeks before the results are obvious! What people do enjoy about exercising are the benefits that are gained when effort and commitment is put into their workouts. This is why it is a very good idea to learn how to get the most out of your time spent exercising – the less time you have to spend working out, the more likely you are to do it!

First off, and most importantly, planning! It seems a simple concept but you would be amazed how many people don’t have any idea what they will do before they begin their workout. The first thing I do when designing a programme for a client is to determine a goal or goals which must be 2 things: specific and timed.

“I want to lose weight.” No good. It must have an end date otherwise I guarantee you will stop exercising in a couple of weeks. It is very difficult to motivate yourself unless there is an end in sight. “I want to lose one inch from my waist by Joanne’s wedding in October.” Perfect! Now our specific goal has a timescale. By the time Joanne’s wedding has come around you start again and say “OK, now I want to be able to run a 10k by Christmas” This gives you something

to aim for and also something to say you achieved afterwards.

Next decide how much time you can dedicate to a workout. If it’s an hour, half an hour or only ten minutes then so be it. If your goal is weight loss, you need to do 20-30 minutes of vigorous cardio exercise per day.

Everyone’s situation is going to be different but this is a general rule of thumb. Cardio is any exercise that raises your heart rate and gets you sweating e.g. walking, jogging, swimming, cycling. You also want to include some resistance training.

Resistance training is anything that works the muscles e.g. sit-ups, press ups, lunges.

Outdoor gyms are becoming so popular because they make it easier to exercise. The various machines allow you to do your cardio and your resistance exercises, all set away from the stuffy, often uncomfortable atmosphere in a traditional gym.

Next month we will look at some more ways to maximise results from your workout. Until then try to put into practice some of the techniques outlined above and see how they can help you to get to where you want to be!

If you would like an outdoor gym installed in your area, you can talk to your local councillor or community development groups! There are grants and funding available all the time for these projects and it just takes someone to get the ball rolling!

It could be you!

Machine of the Month:

The Fitness Rider

Function: This is cardiovascular piece of equipment. It works all joints and muscles and provides excellent all over toning. We recommend spending between 5 and 15 minutes at the beginning and end of each workout.

Method: Sit down on the seat and grip rubber handles. Place feet on pedals. Pull arms towards chest and press feet out. Revert to original position.

Outfit is Irelands first Outdor Gym Installation Specialist.

We cover everything from site design to equipment supply, installation and maintenance.

WWW.OUTFIT.IE CALL 086-2147236

An Outfit installation at Suifinn Way housing estate in Ballycastle, North Mayo

Page 15 Mature Living July 2012

Legal Advice from Caoimhe Haughey Principal of C.M. Haughey Solicitors

Suicide Prevention

Our Hospitals And Doctors Have A Legal And Moral Duty Of Care In the case of Kelly -v- St Laurences’s Hospital (1988) the plaintiff had been diagnosed with epilepsy related psychosis and had a known risk of self-harm. The Supreme Court found that the hospital in question had been "unquestionably negligent" in allowing the plaintiff to attend the toilet unsupervised and while doing so climbed up to a window and jumped out. In this case a clinical decision had been taken to take the plaintiff off certain medication and it was known that without this medication, the plaintiff was at a substantially increased risk of self-harm.

I

n my last article for this publication (April edition) I dealt with the legal duty of care owed by Nursing Homes and the importance of proper medical note taking. In this article I would like to discuss the current view of the Irish Courts regarding the responsibility of hospitals and doctors Niamh Flynn (legal and moral duty of care) to take care of vulnerable patients prone to suicide and self-harm.

The tragedy of suicide has been with us for a long time and sadly it is on the rise. Recent statistics from the CSO reveal that in the year 2010 a total of 486 suicides were recorded.

Of these 386 were men and 100 women. In 2011 there were 520 suicides of which 84% were men. It seems men are 4 times more likely to die from suicide than women. It has also been established that women are more likely to require admission for psychiatric treatment for depression whereas men most likely require admission for alcohol abuse and schizophrenia. The cruel fact is that more people die by suicide every year than on our roads. The question is how do we tackle this problem? What can we do to make the medical profession more alert to the signs?

There have been a number of cases brought before the Irish Courts where

hospitals and doctors have been found negligent arising from their failure to (1) anticipate or (2) avert attempts of suicide. The writer was involved in one such reported case, which was unfortunately unsuccessful and more recently a case that settled out of Court against a well known psychiatric hospital in the south west of the country.

The prevailing view which the Irish Courts have carefully considered and interpreted on the basis of expert evidence from practising psychiatrists is that despite a combination of best practice, stated observation policies/guidelines, precautions and medical intervention a person who is determined to take their own life will inevitably tragically succeed. The Irish Courts also take into account a balancing exercise of what is best for the patient medically but also therapeutically. In other words the dignity of the patient must be observed. However the Irish Courts do recognise that hospitals and doctors who accept the care of and treat patients with known suicide tendencies have a very high duty of responsibility. This has been applied as a preventative duty and is strictly based upon the question of foreseeability and what is objectively deemed as reasonable care.

In the case of Armstrong -vEastern Health Board and St Patrick’s Hospital (1990) the plaintiff who had a long complex history of depression and failed suicide attempts was declined a bed in the defendant hospital primarily on the basis of lack of "medical necessity".

This decision was made after a long consultation by the duty doctor and despite the plaintiff’s husband expressing serious concern. Very shortly later the plaintiff jumped from a second floor balcony and suffered multiple serious and permanent injuries. What was significant in this case was the fact the duty doctor did not see fit to review the plaintiff`s medical records, which contained a valuable insight into the plaintiff`s ongoing behaviour of self-harm and history.

These notes were available at the time but held in a different unit of the hospital.

In the case of Madigan -v- The Governor of St Patrick’s Hospital Dublin (2006) the deceased managed to leave the grounds of the hospital where she was an in-patient undetected and unobserved despite the existence of CCTV security equipment.

The writer was involved in this case. The deceased had been an in-patient for some time and gradually her "privileges" had been restored in addition to the level of observation being relaxed.

These

FREEPHONE 1800 93 88 93

Page 16 Mature Living July 2012 www.cmhaugheysolicitors.ie

decisions were taken on a "clinical" basis. Despite the similarities with the above cases, this case was unsuccessful as the intention of the plaintiff to take her own life was not seen as foreseeable. Ultimately the plaintiff was never seen again although a set of clothes was found at Bray head.

In a more recent case the writer had the privilege of representing the family of a young man who again managed to walk out of a psychiatric hospital unit undetected and unobserved despite the existence of CCTV security equipment and a direction from his treating doctor that he be "nursed in his pyjamas". A number of days after his disappearance the deceased young man was tragically found drowned in a near-by river. In this case the family of the young man had repeatedly brought to the attention of the hospital doctors and staff their grave concerns about the welfare of their son/brother. These concerns were not properly heeded resulting in tragedy.

Legal proceedings were issued in this case which finally settled following a lengthy inquest hearing and internal investigation both of which were vigorously and courageously pursued by the deceased’s family to their credit.

For more information regarding this case please visit www.cmhaugheysolicitors.ie.

In conclusion the writer is of the view that our hospitals in particular our psychiatric hospitals and support services should learn from these very sad cases. Most importantly medical staff, doctors and nurses alike should be trained to implement a strict multi-disciplinary approach AND above all to listen to the family members of these terribly vulnerable sick people. In the experience of the writer it is the family members who are usually best placed to give the real account of what is going on.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article and feel the need for expert confidential advice, please do not hesitate to contact Caoimhe at info@cmhaughey.ie or FREEPHONE 1800 938893.

WHEN YOUR EXPERIENCE NEEDS OUR EXPERIENCE

Senior Resource Feature

A Personalized experience for those with Alzheimer’s Disease or other Dementias ‘My sister Maeve and I were not prepared for the emotional and physical demands that our Dad’s Alzheimer’s placed on us. It was absolutely overwhelming. We reached out and found someone we could trust to help us to take care of Dad. Margaret, Dad’s Care Giver from Home Instead Senior Care Galway fills in whenever we can’t be there with him.

He enjoys her company so much. We are so grateful to have such an excellent Care Giver from Home Instead Senior Care, Galway’.

N

early 40,000 Irish People are affected by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, a figure expected to increase 350% by 2050 if no cure is found. On top of that, 85,000 Care givers (20% of adult Care Givers) care for someone who has dementia.

These are not just numbers. These statistics represent the thousands of families with an ageing loved one who requires special care.

Since 2005, families have trusted the Home Instead Senior Care franchise network to provide one-on-one care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. We are committed to offering high-quality and reliable in-home senior care.

Home Instead Senior Care is ready to help and we also have the experience and knowledge to make this difficult time a lot less stressful for families.

Therefore, it’s about getting the help which is needed. To us, it’s personal. The best place for a person with memory loss is in familiar surroundings. Home Instead Senior Care

is a valuable resource to help loved ones maintain a regular routine, thus enhancing their quality of life.

Our service ensures the following: • Maintain a safe environment • Manage challenging behaviors • Provide nutritious meals • Provide mind-stimulating activities • Create social interaction • Supervise daily activities When a loved one has dementia, the family faces a very difficult choice and Home Instead Senior Care Galway look forward to helping families make a decision which will benefit all.

Personalized care is what matters most. It’s in who we are and what we do.

Forget about the worry, fear and doubt. We can provide all the support needed.

For further information please phone Anne Broderick 091-384160 / fax 091384161 or email info@hiscgalway.ie Page 17 Mature Living July 2012

Health

Will you live to 100?

Membership in the centenarian club is on the rise!

We look at some key traits that centenarians share.

I

reland’s population is aging fast and it will get even older, according to the latest census numbers.

We know the baby boomers are setting new records as they age, and the leading edge of the generation that includes about 30 per cent of Ireland’s population has already crossed the age 65 threshold. It’s one of the reasons Ireland saw a record high in the proportion of seniors among our population in 2011.

However, the real eye opener continues to be a record number of Irish living to age 100 and beyond.

Between 2006 and 2011, the number of centenarians rose by record numbers. Last year 368 Irish people celebrated their 100th birthday .

The number of people who turned 100 reached 315 in 2010, while 303 Irish citizens reached the milestone in 2008 and 2009 respectively, according to figures provided by Áras an Uachtaráin. The latest census figures show that in 2006, 289 people in Ireland were aged 100 or more.

The numbers are in keeping with a trend we’ve been seeing for the past 40 years: centenarians continue to be one of the fastest growing demographic groups in Ireland. And don’t expect that trend to change any time soon. We’re still near the beginning of a steep upward slope.

The number of centenarians is Page 18 Mature Living July 2012

Few centenarians are obese. In the case of men, they are nearly always lean. expected to nearly double in the next 10 years. Women, who generally have longer life expectancies than men, make up the majority of centenarians.

So what happens when Ireland’s largest generation approaches a century of life? When the oldest of boomers reach 100 in 2046, we can expect to see an awful lot more centenarians living among us. By 2061 when the youngest of the boomers are approaching this milestone experts predict that number will swell even more.

• Few centenarians are obese. In the case of men, they are nearly always lean.

• A substantial smoking history is rare.

• Centenarians are better able to handle stress.

• Many (30 per cent) experience no significant changes in their thinking abilities, disproving the expectation by many that all centenarians will suffer from dementia.

• Many centenarian women gave birth after the age of 35 and even 40. A woman who naturally has a child after the age of 40 has a 4 times greater chance of living to 100 compared to women who do not.

(Bearing a child in one’s forties may indicate that the woman’s reproductive system is aging slowly and that the rest of her body is as well.)

• At least 50 per cent of centenarians have first-degree relatives and/or grandparents who also achieve very old age, and many have exceptionally old siblings.

• Many of the children of centenarians (age range of 65 to 82 years) appear to be following in their parents’ footsteps with marked delays in cardiovascular disease, diabetes and overall mortality.

7 Tips for aging well* While good genes can help you live a longer life, a healthy lifestyle is also important, medical experts say. Here are seven tips for healthy aging.

Eat well.

A number of studies have shown that a healthy diet can help you live longer and better. Select foods that are nutrient dense, meaning they

have lots of essential nutrients in proportion to their calories. These would include whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruits and legumes.

Keep physically active.

Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. The benefits are many: weight control, improved blood circulation, increased muscle mass, greater flexibility, more endurance and improved balance.

Sun exposure is responsible not only for much of the skin damage associated with aging, but it puts you at risk for skin cancer.

Limit alcohol.

Women who take more than one drink a day put themselves at increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, some cancers and liver and pancreatic diseases. Alcohol can weaken your immune system, affect your cognitive abilities and increase your risk of falling.

Avoid tobacco use.

Smoking is linked to various cancers, as well as to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and lung disease.

Stay socially connected and intellectually curious.

Having strong ties to family and friends can reduce stress and keep you healthier. Give your brain a work-out with classes, hobbies, reading and other mind-challenging activities to better maintain your memory.

Get regular medical exams and preventive health screenings.

Many diseases are treatable when detected early.

Will you live until 100?

Centenarians have some characteristics in common, according to the Boston University School of Medicine’s New England Centenarian Study from a few years back.

Source *The Mayo Clinic

Interview by Niamh Flynn

The man who said NO to cancer

IT is difficult not be moved by inspirational stories of survival against the odds, particularly when it is from cancer of the worst kind, but to do so and be so determined to make life better for many other cancer sufferers is something truly special. Niamh Flynn speaks to Liam Ryan, a Westmeath man who refused to be defeated by the disease and has an extraordinary story to tell . . .

‘WHEN life gives you a hundred reasons to cry, show life that you have a thousand reasons to smile’. It is said that a picture says a thousand words. If one wanted a picture to match this adage one need not look much further than architect Liam Ryan who, ten years ago was given a 5% chance of survival following a diagnosis of a brain tumour. Having gone in to hospital for a sinus wash

with great expectations of what he recalls as ‘a two day holiday to catch up on reading the papers’ life presented an unexpected, extended holiday for the Westmeath man.

One twelve hour operation, seven weeks of chemotherapy and two episodes of bacterial meningitis later, Liam Ryan has written a book, returned to work, is planning to run a marathon this September and is

aiming to give thousands of others a reason to smile with his fund raising expeditions. He recalls the moment his second life, as he calls it, began.

‘I had a great rapport with the ENT consultant in the hospital in Limerick, Mr. John Fenton. We discovered we had both been students in Liverpool and we got talking about that. I was fully prepared to go home and had a big smile on my face waiting for him to do his rounds. When he finally came into the ward there was a big contingent behind him and he had a very solemn look on his face.

He pulled the curtains around him and at that point I knew something was serious. Things were suddenly in slow motion’.

Liam is clearly a man who likes living in the fast lane however and after allowing himself one day to process the news he set about putting a recovery plan in place. ‘Most cancer patients will verify this; you go from 60 to 0 in seconds. For that single day I was not in a good space.

They sent me down to a different department to see if my eye was damaged. I crouched in the lift and was sobbing uncontrollably. To my credit, I accepted it then from day two on. My main advice is your fight can only begin at zero. If you start saying ‘it should be someone else’ you go into minus territory. Your life is now in two categories, life before cancer and life now you have cancer.

It is pointless living in the former life’.

Despite the initial ominous prognosis Liam called a friend of his, Paddy Hynes, who gave him the words which ignited a long and arduous fight for health. ‘Paddy told me that my job was to make sure that I was one of that five per-cent and he reminded me that I was very fit’. The marathon runner’s impatience served a purpose and a determined Liam took to adopting a tunnel vision mentality. ‘When I found out of course, it being my nature, I wanted the operation the next day. It was a complicated operation though and it took a month to prepare. I decided that my role was to be the best possible patient I could be. Everyone

was trying to help me; my family, friends, the medics. I ran every day until I went to theatre. The plan was to be as fit as possible. Running was purposeful. As I ran, my brain started thinking. I looked at myself and I said, I can see how much better I can be. There was so much support. People were lighting candles and some of my family from Sligo gave me a place that they had in Liverpool to stay in while I was waiting for the operation’.

Liam’s purpose for writing his recently published book ‘Cancer 4 Me 5’ is to inspire others diagnosed with cancer and, as he says with a smile, to get his own back on the disease.

‘I will make cancer regret ever picking on me! The drive that I had then to stay alive is going to raise funds for those behind me. It is cancer from the patients perspective. I went looking for a book like this when I was diagnosed and couldn’t find one. Ok so there was Lance Armstrong but I am no Lance Armstrong. He is super human. He won the Tour de France seven times.

When I wrote an article about what had happened there was huge interest in the story as far away as New Zealand and Canada. Then I thought If I don’t put that to good use then what a lost opportunity that would be.’ The author’s positivity is unerring. ‘You know, there is always someone worse off than you. Think of the man in a war torn country who comes home one Friday evening to find his entire family has been killed by a grenade and he has to go back out to work the next Monday to try to survive’.

As we wrap up the interview Liam points to his head, sharing some of the thoughts which keep him focused; ‘you will kill or cure yourself up here’. Inspiring words from a man qualified to give them.

Looking to give someone else a reason to smile? Those wishing to share Liam’s story or to make a donation towards care for patients of cancer will find more information at his website www.liamryancancerappeal.weebly.com Page 19 Mature Living July 2012

Interview by Niamh Flynn MBA MMEDSCI BA CI DHP

Strokes – Prevention & Treatment Niamh talks to Dr. Andreas Jahnke

Dr. Andreas Jahnke

I

s fearr filleadh as lár an áthe ná bá sa tuile.. The old Gaelic proverb that it is better to return back from the middle of the ford than to drown in the flood could be applied to many situations, including looking after one’s health. A natural reticence, among a considerable proportion of the Irish population to seek medical health until a selfdetermined emergency situation is diagnosed could spell the difference between life and death for some of us. Dr. Jahnke is a great believer in ‘better safe than sorry’ when it concerns health. As he reflects on the diagnosis and treatment of stroke he is positive about the outcome for patients – if the diagnosis is made on time.

‘Treatment for Stroke is much better now than it was years ago but early diagnosis is important. There are some differential diagnoses which need to be sorted out too and

Once diagnosed, treatment of the stroke, Dr. Jahnke explains, is dependent on the risk factors leading to the stroke. ‘The treatment is quite specific and dependent on the underlying reason.

Page 20 Mature Living July 2012

without a CT- or MRI-scan you cannot differentiate an ischemic stroke and a bloody stroke for example.

The onset typically is acute. The list of symptoms for stroke is extensive and includes numb or weak limbs, double vision, pins and needles, unilateral facial drop, slurred speech or loss of speech but, as Dr. Jahnke points out this is by no means an exhaustive list. ‘You could write a book about strokes. Strokes can happen to anyone at any hour of their life although the risk factors increase in those over 60 years of age’.

Another problem of strokes is, that symptoms are often gone after a very short period – which would be then called Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or minor stroke where symptoms may last between seconds and 24 hours, but still you should go to A&E then as this short-term stroke might be followed by a major stroke soon after. So early diagnosis is important’.

The esteemed neurologist is frank and practical in his assessment of the disorder. ‘Stroke can be often prevented. When you know the risk factors you look after those risk factors and the risk of stroke can be minimised’.

These risk factors include for instance high blood pressure. ‘If the person stops smoking they can reduce their risk for example. And it is never too late to stop smoking. If their lipids are high you can bring them down by diet or medication or if there are any rhythm disorders or heart conditions they can be successfully treated as well. Patients can also help themselves by reducing their weight where appropriate. It is important to be aware of the signs and to take action to prevent a stroke.’ He explains that a Stroke may seem to come out of the blue with no warning. ‘Sometimes there are warnings like palpitations, or someone might present with very high blood pressure or high blood sugar’.

It is clear that this neurologist has a thorough understanding of the Irish psyche. ‘What is essential with stroke is time. Time is brain. By this I mean that the aim should be to rescue brain substance so when there are symptoms of a stroke get to the next A&E by ambulance – not by car. Do not lose time by making calls or thinking about what other affliction it might be!’

When you do arrive at A&E Dr. Jahnke explains that diagnosis should involve at least a CT or MRI scan and ECG, taking ones

temperature, blood pressure and pulse and other tests. ‘This is a simplified explanation but what is essential is getting to A&E on time.

There is a time window of about four hours where the most effective stroke treatment can be done.

But not everything is a stroke as there are differential diagnoses where the symptoms resemble those of a stroke, such as migraines with aura and certain types of epileptic seizures but it is better to be assessed rather than to risk suffering the consequences of late diagnosis’.

Once diagnosed, treatment of the stroke, Dr. Jahnke explains, is dependent on the risk factors leading to the stroke. ‘The treatment is quite specific and dependent on the underlying reason.

So, for instance, therapy of diabetes or arterial hypertension need to be optimized then. Or the patient may need to stop smoking and lose weight also. Then, depending on what happens to the person after the stroke they may require therapy or physiotherapy for example’.

It often occurs to me in life that generally those who are confident in their ability, and more importantly, competent in what they do, are always looking for ways to improve and never seem to believe that they have all the answers. Dr. Jahnke would appear to fall into this category. His extensive training in

many disciplines has given this neurologist a very clear understanding of what his patients need and his focus, regardless of the disorder is always on the patient’s welfare. He is keen to assert that treatment for stroke is multidisciplinary. ‘This cannot be done by one specialist. It must involve several professionals right from the start including neurologists, geriatricians, cardiologists, vascular surgeons and, in rare cases, neurosurgeons and other specialists.

This is why it is important to go to A&E as soon as one experiences symptoms of a stroke’.

While our Gaelic proverbs often bestow immense wisdom, it is still reassuring to hear that wisdom reenforced with specifics. The advice, in summary from this neurologist, in relation to strokes, would be, even if you are in doubt, at the first sign of any symptoms associated with stroke, get thee to an A&E department for early diagnosis.

Dr. Jahnke is available to give talks to migraine groups. He attends The Galway Clinic, St Josephs in Sligo, Cahercala in Ennis and St. Francis in Mullingar. All consultations with Dr. Jahnke are by appointment only and a GP referral is necessary. His secretary, Fiona, can be contacted on 091 442300 or at 087 9403863.

Fax number is 091 394057.

The view of Patrick Holford

Preventing and Reversing Diabetes

EVERYDAY in Ireland someone is diagnosed with diabetes

O

ne in seven people over 40 develop the disease and the older or more overweight you are the higher your risk. But despite spending close to €1 billion a year on drug treatment, a growing number of diabetes experts believe there is a far more effective solution.

Scientific research clearly demonstrates that the right nutritional approach can not only prevent – but also reverse – diabetes.

LOW FAT DIETS NOT AS GOOD AS LOW-GL DIETS According to diabetes expert Professor Charles Clark: “There is a simple cure for the obesity and diabetes epidemic but everyone is looking in the wrong place. We blame overeating or fat consumption, but the real villain in both diabetes and obesity is the large amount of refined carbohydrates were eat. It’s this that pushes up our blood sugar levels and leads to diabetes. Meanwhile, our bodies store the extra blood sugar as fat and so we put on weight.”

Not only does this make sense, it’s supported by so much science that

it’s time to bury the low-fat, lowcalorie diet myth once and for all. A low GL (or glycemic load) diet is the best way to balance blood sugar and reduce diabetes risk. For example, a study involving over 64,000 people from China found that the higher the GL of a person’s diet, the higher was their risk of diabetes, while an Australian study reports that eating more vegetables and low-GL foods cuts diabetes risk by a quarter.

EXERCISE Exercise is also a vital piece of the

“There is a simple cure for the obesity and diabetes epidemic but everyone is looking in the wrong place. We blame overeating or fat consumption, but the real villain in both diabetes and obesity is the large amount of refined carbohydrates were eat.

Exercise is also a vital piece of the prevention equation.

prevention equation. A review of 14 good quality trials found that, while exercise alone didn’t decrease weight, it did lower glycosylated haemoglobin (sugar-damaged blood cells) by the kind of amount one might expect from a drug. As your energy goes up on a low-GL diet, you’ll find that so does your desire to exercise.

CHROMIUM HELPS STABLISE BLOOD SUGAR Dozens of scientific studies now confirm that supplementing 400 mcg to to 600 mcg of chromium a day, which is more than ten times the average intake in the British diet helps stabilise blood sugar, in some trials, taking this non-toxic mineral normalised blood sugar completely.

Chromium works by improving your sensitivity to the hormone insulin.

Because a low Glycemic Load (GL) diet consists of eating a variety of healthy, nutritious foods and avoiding foods that have no nutritional value, the body gets the essential vitamins and minerals it needs from food. In addition to weight loss, a low GL diet can boost overall health and prevent the risk of certain diseases.

HIGHER VITAMIN C MORE THAN HALVES DIABETES RISK Another important vitamin for diabetics is vitamin C. Having a high level of vitamin C in your blood, consistent with that achieved by a supplementation and eating a high

fruit and vegetable diet, reduces your risk of diabetes by 62%.

A SPOONFUL OF CINNAMON Cinnamon has been used for many years in traditional herbal medicine for treatment of Type-2 diabetes.

The active ingredient, MCHP, mimics the action of the hormone insulin, which removes excess sugar from the bloodstream.

So whether you have Type 1 (insulindependent) or Type 2 diabetes, you can help regulate your blood sugar by following a low-GL diet, exercising and taking chromium, vitamin C and cinnamon. But do bear in mind if you are taking medication that your need may decrease, so it is important to monitor your blood sugar levels and inform your primary care practitioner accordingly.

Article from Patrick Holford’s 100% Health Newsletter. The full article can be obtained by joining his 100% Health Club at www.patrickholford.com. He is the author of the Holford low-GL diet.

He is an expert on advising how nutrition impacts on health.

Page 21 Mature Living July 2012

Fashion

Ladies’ Day at the Galway Races

The Best Dressed Person Competition takes place on what is traditionally known as Ladies Day on Thursday of the Summer Festival Meeting, (Thursday, 2nd August, 2012). This competition is generously sponsored by Anthony Ryan Ltd of Shop Street, Galway. Anthony Ryan Ltd. has a strong reputation for quality service and an unequalled variety of collections. Galway Ladies Day is famous for being stylish, vibrant and chic.

The winning outfits are usually announced at approximately 3.30pm. The prize giving ceremony will take place in the enclosure immediately after the 5th race.

Entry Ladies taking part in this year's Anthony Ryan's Best Dressed Lady Competition are asked to arrive from midday as the finalists will be chosen by 2.30 p.m. There is no entry required for the competition.

Anthony Ryan's scouts and judges will mingle through the crowd and will invite selected finalists to the judging marquee which is located adjacent to the Champagne Tent in the enclosure. The winning outfit will be announced at 3.30 p.m.

The prize giving ceremony will take place in the enclosure immediately after the race.

T

here is a very generous prize for the winner of the Best Dressed Competition and for the Best Hat Competition.

Niamh Flynn Best Dressed Competition 2012 Anthony Ryan's are celebrating 10 years sponsoring the Best Dressed Lady Competition at Galway Races Ladies Day this year which takes place on Thursday, 2nd August. A stellar judging panel has been lined up to judge the prestigious fashion competition including former Miss World Rosanna Davison, fashion editor of the Irish Independent Bairbre Power and Editor of Social & Personal Magazine P.J. Gibbons.

They will be joined by well known faces Patricia McCrossan, Managing Director, Galway NOW and Mandy Maher, Catwalk Model Agency.

The lucky winner will walk away with a one carat diamond solitaire pendant valued at €8,000, a shopping spree worth €1,500 in Anthony Ryan's Galway and €1,000 cash. She will also receive a Lancome Presentation Gift Hamper worth over €500 and a corporate hospitality package for Galway Races October Bank Holiday Race Meeting.

The prize for the winner of "Best Hat" is a €1,500 shopping spree at Anthony Ryans.

Page 22 Mature Living July 2012

BEST DRESSED COMPETITION 2011 In 2011 Anthony Ryan’s Best Dressed Competition had a prize fund of €20,000 with the Best Dressed Lady scooping a prize worth over €12,000, the largest prize on offer to the winner of a Best Lady Dressed Competition in Ireland during 2011.

Details of Prizes The Best Dressed Lady Suzanne McGarry walked away with a one carat diamond solitaire pendant valued at €8,500, a shopping spree worth €1,500 in Anthony Ryans, Galway and €1,000 cash. She also received a corporate hospitality package for Galway Races October Bank Holiday Racing Festival to include dinner and champagne

reception and a Lancôme Presentation Gift Hamper worth over €500.

The prize for the winner of the ‘Best Hat’ was a €1,500 shopping spree at Anthony Ryan’s Galway and Sieglinde Mullers was the lucky one.

All finalists at the Anthony Ryan’s Best Dressed marquee were presented with a special collection of Lancôme cosmetics compliments of University Pharmacy, Galway.

Judging the 2011 competition were three of the best known names in the Irish fashion industry –Bairbre Power, Fashion Editor of the Irish

Independent and Executive Editor of the Irish Independent Weekend magazine, Off the Rails Presenter Brendan Courtney and PJ Gibbons, Editor, Social and Personal Magazine.

They were joined by well known faces from the Galway fashion scene, Patricia McCrossan, Managing Director, Galway NOW, Mandy Maher, Catwalk Model Agency and Fiona Durkin, Fashion Consultant with Anthony Ryan Ltd.

Fashion

The Green Room An oasis of style in the heart of the North West. An intimate boutique, bringing a wealth of new trends and labels to the women of Sligo.

Suzie Mahony Desig!s - Award Winning Milliner 'Comhcheol' Rafar!, Loughrea, Co Galway.

We offer an exclusive range of labels to the Northwest for all occasions for every woman.

We stock a large range of dress to carry you through from day to evening, these are ideal for the racing season, including a select range of headpieces by ‘Heads You Win’.

You can look your best for the forthcoming ladies days, in both the Galway and Sligo races.

The Green Room is easily found on Pearse Road.

We are approx 15 minutes walk from the center of Sligo Town. Lots of parking spaces right outside the door.

Drop in for a browse...find us on facebook The Green Room • 10 Pearse Road • Sligo Town Open Hours Monday - Friday 10am - 6pm • Saturday 10am - 5pm Tel: 071 9150950 • Email: greenroomsligo@gmail.com • www.greenroomsligo.com

Subscribe to

www.suziemahonydesigns.ie Tel: 086 1948315 / 091 847326

Suzie Mahony Desig!s Award-winning Milliner

Due to the massive uptake on the last issue of Mature Living Magazine, not everyone could be guaranteed a free copy in their local outlet. However we now offer a subscription service for just €35 per year.

M

ature Living is full to the brim with information on events, finance, travel, pets, food and drink, health, hobbies and much much more! For just €35 (to cover postage and admin costs) you can have Mature Living delivered to your door. Mature Living is published once per month and a subscription covers 12 months.

Complete the form below. You can pay by cheque or Postal Order made payable to IBS Publications I Would llike to subscribe to Mature Living Magazine for 12 issues.

Name.............................................Telephone....................................

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Alternatively, you can pay via telephone using your credit or debit card. Simply call us on 071-9154538 with your details.

Cut out this form and send it to us at: Subscriptions, Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo.

A

ward winning Galway Milliner Suzie Mahony designs unique hats and headpieces. Over the last number of years Milliner, Suzie Mahony has created a name for herself both nationally and internationally as the milliner of choice for ladies attending glamorous events from Weddings to Race meetings.

Suzie’s collections are available in many leading boutiques throughout Ireland. She has won many awards including the international Hatty Award 2008, Network Galway Award 2009 and the ‘I Do’ Wedding Hat Supplier Award 2011.

Innovation Awards Finalist 2011/12. Her designs have been worn at Ascot, Cheltenham and the Dubai Races. They have won ‘Best Dressed’ at many race meetings including two in a row at Punchestown 2010. Suzie Mahony Designs sponsors the ‘Most Appropriately Dressed Lady’ Competition on the Monday evening at the Galway Races. This year she will judge the event with TV3’s Celebrity Correspondent Noel Cunningham and the winner will be presented with a Suzie Mahony Bespoke Hat. Her Collection was featured at Showcase 2012 at the RDS gaining international interest for the Milliner. Suzie has trained with many established Milliners including, Milliner to Queen Elizabeth at Buckingham Palace where she designed her own hat blocks for her unique 2012 collection.

She provides a unique service to her clients, from her studio. Suzie works by appointment only and always tries to make her customers feel comfortable, relaxed and special when selecting a design. Visit www.suziemahonydesigns.ie for more information

Page 23 Mature Living July 2012

Memories

T

The Bands of our Showband Era

Article and Photos courtesy of Gerry Gallagher www.irish-showbands.com

here were hundreds of them. Irish bands of every size, description and musical genre travelling the roads and borheens of Ireland. They travelled the length and breadth of the country from the 1950's through the mid 1980's. Although "officially" the term showband was coined in the late fifties and was used to describe bands that played a wide variety of music and usually included a "show" during the night, the term was gradually applied to all the bands that played in the 1960's. As the

Irish music scene splintered in the late sixties into pop, country bands, the term was dropped but we still find it the best overall description of the bands of the "ballroom" era. In the early days, they travelled in whatever they could find...bread vans, hearses, and even cars (roof racks and all). In later years, many (if not most) of them travelled in converted Ford Transit vans (like the one pictured right) that were normally used for delivery services.

After a couple of windows were popped into the centre panels, a

row or two of old airplane seats were installed and the band was ready to travel "in style." Although style was a matter of opinion...if you're stuck in the back of a van on a cold and rainy winter's night, it may seem like "a long way to Tipperary," but it's even further to Castletownbere, Co. Cork!

It will be impossible to list all the bands that played the dance halls, ballrooms, marquees, parochial halls, community centres, hotels, and town halls across Ireland but each month we are

The Magic Band (1974-81) formally Known as the Swallows (1970-74)

J

ohnny Carroll started his career in 1958 with the Ballintubber, Roscommon based Pioneer Showband (so named because all of the band were non drinking Pioneers). They soon changed their name to The Premier Aces and became one of the best known bands in rural Ireland. In 1969, the Aces called it quits.

At that time Johnny, Jimmy O'Neill and Sonny Ward decided to form their own band. They approached Glenamaddy's music mogul, Joe O'Neill (Jimmy's brother), to help finance the band and Joe agreed. The first lead singer the band had was Jim Nash, a 6'2" country crooner from Tipperary. They released a record, Just Between You and Me, and hit the road.

However, Jim didn't last long with the band and they soon needed a new lead vocalist and Joe suggested local cabaret singer,

Margaret Murphy and Murphy and The Swallows was born. During the early 70's, the Swallows did very well on the growing country circuit.

Still not satisfied, Jimmy and Johnny started over yet again and switched from country to pop in 1974. The first hint of the new band's existence came on August 22, 1974 when a couple of small adverts which simply said "Magic" appeared on page 30 of Spotlight magazine. The following week, the magazine was peppered with three images of the new lead singer, Kevin "Magic" Walsh. A week later, eight adverts announced "Magic Are Coming." Finally in the September 12th issue, the magazine sported a half page advert for the band's first single, "Calendar Girl" which had been recorded before the band was even ready to perform.

The band brought together musicians

from all around the country including Joe Bernie (Leaders Showband and Swingtime Aces) from Castlebar on sax, Gerry Gallagher (Ritchie Fitzgerald Ceili Band and Sandy Duskey's Easy Listenin) from Sligo on guitar, Frank Clancy (Stylos Showband and Gerry and the Ohio) originally from Sligo but living in Tuam, on keyboards, John McKenna (Silver Pennies) from Kingscourt on bass and Kevin Walsh, younger brother of the Nevada's Willie Walsh from Drogheda on vocals. Mickey Belton, drummer with The Swallows, and Johnny himself were the only musicians kept from the old band. At this point Jimmy O'Neill retired from performing, but stayed with the band as their road manager.

The band came together in the Fall of 1974 and released their first record, Neil Sedaka's Calendar Girl, which became a hit

Contributed by David Dwane

and reached number four on the Irish Charts. The Magic idea was thought up by Johnny and Joe O'Neil, who financed the design of a ÂŁ2,000 "magic" suit, which was actually some 12 volt twinkling lights hook up to a battery back. Magic also employed one of the country's first wireless microphones, allowing him to roam the hall showing up in the most "magical" places during the night, often down in the crowd.

The band did well on the dance circuit serving up a mix of danceable pop as well as classics from the fifties by Sedaka, Fats Domino and Paul Anka among others. The band was featured on RTE's Ken's Club in early 1975 and continued to do well. They released a second single, Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen, another Sedaka classic, which was on the Irish Charts for 7 weeks and reached number 5.

For almost a year, the band remained unchanged, but then the lineup began to change regularly. The first to leave was Page 24 Mature Living July 2012

planning to feature a band from the west with the help of Gerry Gallagher and www.irish-showbands.com . Apart from a few who enjoy near mythical status (such as the Royal Showband and a handful of others), most bands came together, played for a few years and then either reinvented themselves, changed their name, or just disappeared, their members either returning to civilian life, or scattering to two or three new bands.

For such a small country, it is difficult to comprehend the sheer

John McKenna, who was replaced by Finny Thomas (RIP-Craughwell) on bass, a couple of month later Gerry Gallagher left to return to Sligo and was replaced by Mike Mannion (Glenamaddy) on guitar.

Around 1976, two more original members, Joe Bernie and Frank Clancy left the band. Frank was replaced by John Murphy on keyboards, but the band did not add a sax player and went to a six piece for the rest of its history. Also in 1976, Finny Thomas left the band and Mike Mannion moved over to bass when they added Gerry Kelly on guitar. During the mid to late seventies, other musicians came and went including Dean Lane (Castlerea - bass), Padraig Crehan (Athboy - bass), Don Woods (Drumshanbo - guitar), Eddie Keating (Portlaoise - guitar), Joe Beggy (guitar) and Gabriel Donohue (Athenry - guitar).

Although the band continued to change its lineup throughout the

All editorial and photographs are kindly supplied by Gerry Gallagher from www.irish-shownbands.com Over the years Gerry has built up what can only be describe as the definitive guide to the showband era.

I would like to thank Gerry for allowing us to reproduce the articles and photos in Mature Living. If you would like to know more about your favourite band or who was number one in a particular year visit www.irish-showbands.com number of bands that the country produced. Almost as hard to imagine, is the number of dance halls that once dotted the countryside, many out in the "middle of nowhere." Pick up next months issue for another blast from the blast from the showband era...

seventies, the powerhouse vocal style of Magic (a.k.a Kevin Walsh) kept the band growing and moving forward. More chart singles followed including Run Samson Run (No. 11), Lend A Hand this Christmas (No. 6), and Reaching Out (No. 9).

Finally, in late 1979, after five years on the road, Kevin called it quits and moved to local cabaret in Galway. In his place, the band drafted Cornelius "Con" Ward, an eighteen year old from Donegal to step in and fill Magic's shoes, which he did admirably. In fact, the singers had quit similar voices. Cornelius had previously played with Geraldine and the Cufflinks from Co. Donegal.

Around 1980/81, the band packed it in.

The ballroom scene had finally succumbed to the discos and hotel extensions and Johnny Carroll went on the road as a solo act. As "The Man With The Golden Trumpet," Johnny enjoyed a great deal of success over the next 20 plus years and still performs today. Kevin Walsh still performs locally around Galway as does Joe Bernie, who released a CD a few years ago. Frank Clancy runs a company in Tuam. Gerry Gallagher is still gigging around Sligo and runs the website irishshowbands.com which very kindly supplies these articles to Mature Living. John McKenna is living in his native Kingscourt and performs regularly in the area with his one man show. Mickey Belton continues to be one of Galway's top session drummers and performs regularly on the jazz scene.

Top singles - 1969

1. Sean Dunphy & Hoedowners - The Lonely Woods of Upton (Dolphin) 2. Joe Dolan - Make Me An Island (Pye) 3. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - The Joys of Love (honey) 4. Real McCoy - Quick Joey Small (Target) 5. Joe Dolan - Teresa (Pye) 6. Sean Dunphy & Hoedowners - When the Fields Are White With Daisies (Dolphin) 7. Margo & Keynotes - The Road By the River (Target) 8. Muriel Day & Lindsays - Wages of Love (Dolphin) 9. Real McCoy - Many the Memories (Target) 10. Sands - Bubblegum Music (Tribune) 11. Sean Fagan - My Lovely Rose and You (Tribune) 12. Dreams - Casatchock (Dolphin) 13. Larry Cunningham - Pretty Little Girl From Omagh 14. Times - Hitching To Miami (Dolphin) 15. Times - Dozey (Dolphin) 16. Freshmen - Just To See You Smile (Target) 17. Real McCoy - Round the Gum Tree (Target) 18. John McNally - Mary In the Morning (Cbs) 19. Two's Company - Eileen McManus (Honey) 20. Roly Daniels - Angel She Was Love (CBS) 21. Joe McCarthy & Dixies - All Together Now (Honey) 22. Dickie Rock & Miami - Emily (United Artists) 23. Mike Feeney & Virginians - Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder (Dolphin) 24. Tommy Drennan & Monarchs - Come Home Rolling Stone (Columbia) 25. Michael O'Callaghan, Eleanor Nodwell & Big Band Cuando Sali de Cuba (Honey) 26. Red Hurley & Colours - Poor Man's Roses (Target) 27. Smokey Mountain Ramblers - The Little Folk (Dolphin) 28. Tommy Drennan & Monarchs - Where Were You (Columbia) Page 25 Mature Living July 2012

Memories

T

The Bands of our Showband Era

Article and Photos courtesy of Gerry Gallagher www.irish-showbands.com

here were hundreds of them. Irish bands of every size, description and musical genre travelling the roads and borheens of Ireland. They travelled the length and breadth of the country from the 1950's through the mid 1980's. Although "officially" the term showband was coined in the late fifties and was used to describe bands that played a wide variety of music and usually included a "show" during the night, the term was gradually applied to all the bands that played in the 1960's. As the

Irish music scene splintered in the late sixties into pop, country bands, the term was dropped but we still find it the best overall description of the bands of the "ballroom" era. In the early days, they travelled in whatever they could find...bread vans, hearses, and even cars (roof racks and all). In later years, many (if not most) of them travelled in converted Ford Transit vans (like the one pictured right) that were normally used for delivery services.

After a couple of windows were popped into the centre panels, a

row or two of old airplane seats were installed and the band was ready to travel "in style." Although style was a matter of opinion...if you're stuck in the back of a van on a cold and rainy winter's night, it may seem like "a long way to Tipperary," but it's even further to Castletownbere, Co. Cork!

It will be impossible to list all the bands that played the dance halls, ballrooms, marquees, parochial halls, community centres, hotels, and town halls across Ireland but each month we are

The Magic Band (1974-81) formally Known as the Swallows (1970-74)

J

ohnny Carroll started his career in 1958 with the Ballintubber, Roscommon based Pioneer Showband (so named because all of the band were non drinking Pioneers). They soon changed their name to The Premier Aces and became one of the best known bands in rural Ireland. In 1969, the Aces called it quits.

At that time Johnny, Jimmy O'Neill and Sonny Ward decided to form their own band. They approached Glenamaddy's music mogul, Joe O'Neill (Jimmy's brother), to help finance the band and Joe agreed. The first lead singer the band had was Jim Nash, a 6'2" country crooner from Tipperary. They released a record, Just Between You and Me, and hit the road.

However, Jim didn't last long with the band and they soon needed a new lead vocalist and Joe suggested local cabaret singer,

Margaret Murphy and Murphy and The Swallows was born. During the early 70's, the Swallows did very well on the growing country circuit.

Still not satisfied, Jimmy and Johnny started over yet again and switched from country to pop in 1974. The first hint of the new band's existence came on August 22, 1974 when a couple of small adverts which simply said "Magic" appeared on page 30 of Spotlight magazine. The following week, the magazine was peppered with three images of the new lead singer, Kevin "Magic" Walsh. A week later, eight adverts announced "Magic Are Coming." Finally in the September 12th issue, the magazine sported a half page advert for the band's first single, "Calendar Girl" which had been recorded before the band was even ready to perform.

The band brought together musicians

from all around the country including Joe Bernie (Leaders Showband and Swingtime Aces) from Castlebar on sax, Gerry Gallagher (Ritchie Fitzgerald Ceili Band and Sandy Duskey's Easy Listenin) from Sligo on guitar, Frank Clancy (Stylos Showband and Gerry and the Ohio) originally from Sligo but living in Tuam, on keyboards, John McKenna (Silver Pennies) from Kingscourt on bass and Kevin Walsh, younger brother of the Nevada's Willie Walsh from Drogheda on vocals. Mickey Belton, drummer with The Swallows, and Johnny himself were the only musicians kept from the old band. At this point Jimmy O'Neill retired from performing, but stayed with the band as their road manager.

The band came together in the Fall of 1974 and released their first record, Neil Sedaka's Calendar Girl, which became a hit

Contributed by David Dwane

and reached number four on the Irish Charts. The Magic idea was thought up by Johnny and Joe O'Neil, who financed the design of a ÂŁ2,000 "magic" suit, which was actually some 12 volt twinkling lights hook up to a battery back. Magic also employed one of the country's first wireless microphones, allowing him to roam the hall showing up in the most "magical" places during the night, often down in the crowd.

The band did well on the dance circuit serving up a mix of danceable pop as well as classics from the fifties by Sedaka, Fats Domino and Paul Anka among others. The band was featured on RTE's Ken's Club in early 1975 and continued to do well. They released a second single, Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen, another Sedaka classic, which was on the Irish Charts for 7 weeks and reached number 5.

For almost a year, the band remained unchanged, but then the lineup began to change regularly. The first to leave was Page 24 Mature Living July 2012

planning to feature a band from the west with the help of Gerry Gallagher and www.irish-showbands.com . Apart from a few who enjoy near mythical status (such as the Royal Showband and a handful of others), most bands came together, played for a few years and then either reinvented themselves, changed their name, or just disappeared, their members either returning to civilian life, or scattering to two or three new bands.

For such a small country, it is difficult to comprehend the sheer

John McKenna, who was replaced by Finny Thomas (RIP-Craughwell) on bass, a couple of month later Gerry Gallagher left to return to Sligo and was replaced by Mike Mannion (Glenamaddy) on guitar.

Around 1976, two more original members, Joe Bernie and Frank Clancy left the band. Frank was replaced by John Murphy on keyboards, but the band did not add a sax player and went to a six piece for the rest of its history. Also in 1976, Finny Thomas left the band and Mike Mannion moved over to bass when they added Gerry Kelly on guitar. During the mid to late seventies, other musicians came and went including Dean Lane (Castlerea - bass), Padraig Crehan (Athboy - bass), Don Woods (Drumshanbo - guitar), Eddie Keating (Portlaoise - guitar), Joe Beggy (guitar) and Gabriel Donohue (Athenry - guitar).

Although the band continued to change its lineup throughout the

All editorial and photographs are kindly supplied by Gerry Gallagher from www.irish-shownbands.com Over the years Gerry has built up what can only be describe as the definitive guide to the showband era.

I would like to thank Gerry for allowing us to reproduce the articles and photos in Mature Living. If you would like to know more about your favourite band or who was number one in a particular year visit www.irish-showbands.com number of bands that the country produced. Almost as hard to imagine, is the number of dance halls that once dotted the countryside, many out in the "middle of nowhere." Pick up next months issue for another blast from the blast from the showband era...

seventies, the powerhouse vocal style of Magic (a.k.a Kevin Walsh) kept the band growing and moving forward. More chart singles followed including Run Samson Run (No. 11), Lend A Hand this Christmas (No. 6), and Reaching Out (No. 9).

Finally, in late 1979, after five years on the road, Kevin called it quits and moved to local cabaret in Galway. In his place, the band drafted Cornelius "Con" Ward, an eighteen year old from Donegal to step in and fill Magic's shoes, which he did admirably. In fact, the singers had quit similar voices. Cornelius had previously played with Geraldine and the Cufflinks from Co. Donegal.

Around 1980/81, the band packed it in.

The ballroom scene had finally succumbed to the discos and hotel extensions and Johnny Carroll went on the road as a solo act. As "The Man With The Golden Trumpet," Johnny enjoyed a great deal of success over the next 20 plus years and still performs today. Kevin Walsh still performs locally around Galway as does Joe Bernie, who released a CD a few years ago. Frank Clancy runs a company in Tuam. Gerry Gallagher is still gigging around Sligo and runs the website irishshowbands.com which very kindly supplies these articles to Mature Living. John McKenna is living in his native Kingscourt and performs regularly in the area with his one man show. Mickey Belton continues to be one of Galway's top session drummers and performs regularly on the jazz scene.

Top singles - 1969

1. Sean Dunphy & Hoedowners - The Lonely Woods of Upton (Dolphin) 2. Joe Dolan - Make Me An Island (Pye) 3. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - The Joys of Love (honey) 4. Real McCoy - Quick Joey Small (Target) 5. Joe Dolan - Teresa (Pye) 6. Sean Dunphy & Hoedowners - When the Fields Are White With Daisies (Dolphin) 7. Margo & Keynotes - The Road By the River (Target) 8. Muriel Day & Lindsays - Wages of Love (Dolphin) 9. Real McCoy - Many the Memories (Target) 10. Sands - Bubblegum Music (Tribune) 11. Sean Fagan - My Lovely Rose and You (Tribune) 12. Dreams - Casatchock (Dolphin) 13. Larry Cunningham - Pretty Little Girl From Omagh 14. Times - Hitching To Miami (Dolphin) 15. Times - Dozey (Dolphin) 16. Freshmen - Just To See You Smile (Target) 17. Real McCoy - Round the Gum Tree (Target) 18. John McNally - Mary In the Morning (Cbs) 19. Two's Company - Eileen McManus (Honey) 20. Roly Daniels - Angel She Was Love (CBS) 21. Joe McCarthy & Dixies - All Together Now (Honey) 22. Dickie Rock & Miami - Emily (United Artists) 23. Mike Feeney & Virginians - Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder (Dolphin) 24. Tommy Drennan & Monarchs - Come Home Rolling Stone (Columbia) 25. Michael O'Callaghan, Eleanor Nodwell & Big Band Cuando Sali de Cuba (Honey) 26. Red Hurley & Colours - Poor Man's Roses (Target) 27. Smokey Mountain Ramblers - The Little Folk (Dolphin) 28. Tommy Drennan & Monarchs - Where Were You (Columbia) Page 25 Mature Living July 2012

Travel

Budget-savvy London It may be one of the priciest places on your must-see list, but London offers many opportunities for budget-minded travellers. We've got some top picks of free and inexpensive experiences.

The Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace

I

s London calling you? Events like the Royal Wedding, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, the Queens visit to Ireland and the upcoming 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games only seem to add to the allure of this world capital. With all the recent media coverage, it’s hard not to daydream about the many experiences London has to offer.

The city may be famous for many things — but being a budget destination isn’t one of them. Thankfully, there are many free and inexpensive experiences that can help balance your travel budget. We’ve rounded up some top picks: Museums Admission to many major museums in Ireland can run you up to €15 per person, but London offers plenty of free places to learn about Britain’s roots. You can’t go wrong starting with some of the famous names like the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Museum and the Museum of London. For the youngsters and the young at heart, the Victoria and Albert Children’s Museum — home to an impressive collection of toys — the Natural History Museum and the Grant Museum of Zoology. (Yes, they’re all free!)

However, many of the city’s lesser-known museums are also worth a look, and you’ll find some unique opportunities — like the Anaesthesia Museum and the London Sewing Machine Museum. Many muPage 26 Mature Living July 2012

The city may be famous for many things — but being a budget destination isn’t one of them.

Thankfully, there are many free and inexpensive experiences that can help balance your travel budget.

seums chronicle a particular aspect of London’s history, such as the National Maritime Museum, the Imperial War Museum and the Museum of the London Docklands.

If you’re looking for places to delve into knights and chivalry, another free site to try is the Museum of the Order of St. John. Redeveloped last autumn, the museum tells the story of the “Knights Hospitaller” from its 11th century roots to the founding of St. John’s Ambulance. The Temple Church has a modest admission fee compared to Westminster Abbey.

Art Big or small, London’s galleries have an impressive collection of fine art stretching back through history. In Ireland, you can expect to pay for the privilege of seeing master works by the likes of Da Vinci, Rembrandt, Turner and Van Gogh. Like many of its museums, London’s famous galleries are free to the public. If you’re a people person, see famous

faces dating all the way back to medieval times at the National Portrait Gallery.

You could easily spend your entire trip in the halls of the National Gallery, Tate Britain and Tate Modern — but the city has more to offer. The William Morris Gallery is set to reopen again this month, and Hogarth House is home to an impressive collection of the artist’s engravings.

The Tower of London

Travel

The Palace of Westminster

If your tastes run more towards contemporary art, add the Whitechapel Art Gallery to your list.

Of course, London’s many monuments and architectural gems are always on hand for a photo op.

Winchester Palace (former residence of the bishops of Winchester) and The Geffreye Museum (dedicated to the history of great interior rooms) are also open to guests, free of admission.

Historic sites Sometimes you just have to see art and history in its context, like impressive collections in opulent homes and impressive gardens. Many of these sites charge admission, but visitors can purchase a National Trust Touring Pass that allows you free access to over 300 sites across Britain.

A seven-day pass goes for £23 per person or £41 per couple and 14-day passes go for £28 and £50 respectively. (With admission rates normally ranging £5-9, the pass can pay for itself pretty quickly.)

Among the many places you’ll have to choose from near London: Carlyle’s House (home of a famous and wealthy Victorian couple), the George Inn (the last remaining galleried inn in the country) and 2 Willow Road (a unique Modernist home built in 1939). Ham House and Garden is everything you’d picture a proper English manor to be: richly furnished with restored formal gardens.

Top attractions at a discount What would a trip to London be without a look at the famed Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, Windsor Castle or the many museums and galleries that aren’t free? How about behind-the-scenes tours of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the National Ballet, or a river cruise down the Thames?

Many experiences are worth paying for — but you don’t have to pay full price. The London Pass gives you free admission to over 55 top sites in the city. You can purchase 1, 2, 3 and 6-day passes ahead of your trip, and even upgrade to include transportation. You’ll want to do some maths ahead of time to see if it’s worth the savings. For instance, if you can only squeeze two experiences into a day, the £41.40 1-day pass may not be such a bargain.

However, the 6-day pass at £89.10 can translate to savings if your itinerary includes some pricy places — like Westminster Abbey at £16 or

The Victoria and Albert Museum

Buckingham Palace for £18.00.

Of course, the pass includes other perks too — like discounts on dining and entertainment, and being able to “skip the line” at tourist hotspots.

the farm is free, and you can arrange an “animal encounter” for a hands-on experience. Stick around until 4:00 pm and you can help round up the animals for bedtime.

Parks and green spaces Hyde Park, Bushy, Greenwich Park, Regent’s Park, St. James’s Park, Richmond Park… There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors and the sunny weather. These large parks aren’t just places to enjoy artful green spaces and playgrounds — they host a variety of amenities and activities for all ages.

For example, Regent’s Park isn’t just about the formal splendor of the Queen Mary’s Gardens (not to mention the other four themed gardens).

It also features an Open Air Theatre with free performances and fairs, and is home to the London Zoo. With sports fields, playgrounds and walking trails, it’s the perfect place to burn off some energy. The view of the city from the top of Primrose Hill is worth the hike.

And if you’re looking for a way to trim your dining expenses, you can’t beat a picnic — though openair cafes are a mainstay at many of the city’s parks. Not all park events are free, but there’s no charge to kick back and relax.

For more information on events, amenities and activities, visit The Royal Parks.

If you really want to get up close and personal with nature, it might surprise you to know the city is home to a working farm, the Mudchute Park and Farm. Admission to

Entertainment Comedy, cinema, concerts and theatre are just a few of the inexpensive activities you can find around the city — if you’re willing to do a little digging and try out smaller venues. For example, the Arcola Theatre has “pay what you can” tickets on Tuesday nights. The Theatre Royal Stratford East holds free comedy nights every Monday, as does the Marie Lloyd Comedy Box in Hackney Empire. For a musical look at the city, tap into free concerts, recitals and street performers.

If you love film, catch a free outdoor screening at sites like The Scoop (London’s permanent outdoor theatre), the Horniman Museum and Gardens and the BP Summer Screen at the Royal Opera House. The Roxy Bar and Screen has a little something to suit every taste, but expect to pay for recent flicks. Prefer British TV instead? You can book tickets to be in the live studio audience through the BBC. Naturally, you won’t want to miss the most iconic free show of all: the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace every day at 11:30 am.

Of course, this list is just a small sampling to get you thinking. Where can you find out about more free and inexpensive activities?

Try: www.visitlondon.com and www.londonforfree.net Page 27 Mature Living July 2012

Taoist Tai Chi

Improve your health, with Taoist Tai Chi internal arts of health

Promoting Health, Helping Others, and Cultural Exchange Are Main Objectives

WHAT IS TAOIST TAI CHI? Taoist Tai Chi internal arts of health are an effective way to counteract the fast-paced yet sedentary nature of modern life and are specifically designed to improve holistic health.

The slow, gentle movements allow every part of the body to be exercised without strain, releasing tension and reducing stress, restoring the calmness and peace of mind that is often lost through the anxieties of daily life. Taoist Tai Chi™ aims to slowdown, stop, and even reverse, the negative effects of aging upon our bodies and minds.

The art is readily adapted to people of all ages and health circumstances: young and old, the fit and the sedentary, those who are well and those dealing with deep illness.

Several hundred peer-reviewed scientific studies support the efficacy of Tai Chi for the treatment

Page 28 Mature Living July 2012

of a wide range of physical and mental conditions, including stroke rehabilitation, fall prevention in the elderly, and cardiac rehabilitation. It helps to counteract depression and increases bone density, back flexibility and strength. The slow, controlled movements are cooperative instead of competitive (in contrast to many sports), and are of equal interest to men and women.

Classes are composed of a wide cross section of ages (from 20’s to 90’s).

WHAT IS THE TAOIST TAI CHI SOCIETY? The International Taoist Tai Chi Society is the world’s largest nonprofit Tai Chi organisation. Practiced by more than 40,000 members in 28 countries around the world, Taoist Tai Chi™ internal arts of health were introduced to western society in 1970 by Mister Moy Lin-Shin, a Tai

Chi master and Taoist monk who studied Tai Chi, and other internal Taoist arts, for more than 30 years in China and Hong Kong.

Taoist Tai Chi™ in Ireland The Taoist Tai Chi Society of Ireland has been established for 15 years, has over 300 members and holds classes in 13 locations from Ballymote to Ballindangan. All instructors are volunteers, trained to a high standard with regular accreditation and review from the international organisation. Our goal is to raise awareness of this art, and to highlight its importance in improving health and well-being in every community.

Taoist Tai Chi in Ballina The first class in Ireland was held in Ballina, Co. Mayo in 1996, and in May 2012, we celebrated the first

anniversary of the opening of our new national centre at Unit 6, Abbey Business Park, Ardnaree. The centre has classes running 6 days a week, a full day practice on the last Sunday of each month, and regular intensives and workshops throughout the year. We will also host an “Open House” on Tuesday the 9th July, from 10am to 2pm, as part of this year’s Salmon Festival program of events.

Drop in for a cup of tea and maybe try a move or two!

Want to know more?

Why not call us on 096 75445, email us at: info@taoist.ie, or visit us online at: http://www.taoist.ie and www.taoist.org. Details of all our beginner classes are available on our website.

Food and Drink

Best foods for healthy eyes

Eat fatty fish at least once a week? The right kinds of fruits and vegetables?

Find out how to lower your risk of serious vision loss from advanced age-related macular degeneration.

(Women face a greater risk of AMD than men, whites are at greater risk than African Americans and smokers face a higher risk than non-smokers.)

“While the current research indicates that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of late AMD in some patients, more research is still necessary,” study leader Bonnielin K. Swenor from Johns Hopkins University told Reuters.

The fact that the study was “crosssectional” — meaning it analyzed participants at one point in time rather than following them over time – means that its difficult to know for sure if the participants’ reported diet habits preceded the development of the eye disease.

T

he health benefits of oily fish have been widely reported including reduced risk for heart disease, depression and certain kinds of cancers. Eating fish rich in omega3 fatty acids has also long been thought to be good for maintaining eye health.

Now new research from Johns Hopkins University backs up previous studies showing that fatty fish-eaters tend to have lower rates of advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) — a condition where vision becomes increasingly blurry and distorted due to damage to part of retina. This can impair basic daily activities such as reading, driving or even recognizing faces.

While there is no cure for AMD, there are some treatments and lifestyle changes that can help to prevent serious vision loss.

The study, published in the journal Ophthalmology, indicates that omega-3 fatty acids — found in oily fish such as salmon, albacore tuna and mackerel — may affect the development or progression of AMD. Researchers looked at data from 2,520 adults aged 65 to 84 who underwent eye exams and completed detailed dietary questionnaires. And while they found no clear relationship between participants’ reported fish intake and the risk of AMD, there was a link between higher intake of omega-3rich fish and the odds of having advanced AMD, the most serious Page 29 Mature Living July 2012

stage of the condition.

In fact, participants who ate one or more servings of such fish on a weekly basis were 60 per cent less likely to have advanced AMD than those who averaged less than a serving per week. However, the relationship between participant’s fish intake and the risk of AMD — as opposed to advanced AMD — was less clear.

The study took into account known risk factors such as gender, race and smoking habits, which have been previously connected with AMD.

Super healthy smoothie: For a tasty, ultranutritious smoothie, blend together a handful each of kale and spinach, one sliced banana, one mango (fresh or frozen), one pear, two or three dates (for sweetness), 2 T of flaxseeds and 1 cup of water.

Foods for healthy eyes In addition to fatty fish, there is growing evidence that fresh fruits and dark green, leafy vegetables — foods rich in vitamins C and E, selenium, and carotenoids (including beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin) — may delay or reduce the severity of AMD To reap the most health benefits, select the freshest, most colourful veggies and fruits you can find — think red, dark green, orange or yellow. Some top foods for your peepers include carrots, corn, kiwi, pumpkin, yellow squash, red grapes, tomatoes, spinach, kale, collard greens and green peas.

Nuts are another source of omega-3 fatty acids — and they also contain copper, which it thought to play a role in preventing age-related eye diseases.

Foods to avoid A high-fat, high-cholesterol diet is not only bad for your heart, but it can lead to fatty plaque deposits in the macular vessels — which can hamper blood flow and increase the risk of AMD. Similar to guidelines for cardiovascular health, experts recommend maintaining a diet low in fat to keep your eyes healthy.

Research has also shown that consuming red meat 10 times a week or more puts you at a 47 per cent higher risk for macular degeneration.

Vitamins and supplements A high-dose formulation of antioxidants and zinc can significantly reduce the risk of advanced AMD and its associated

vision loss, according to The National Eye Institute’s Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). This is often recommended for people with intermediate AMD in one or both eyes.Because there can be harmful side effects, including urinary tract problems, to high-dose supplements, be sure to consult with your doctor before taking supplements. Also keep in mind that some vitamins and supplements can interfere with some prescription medications.

Other preventative measures Experts also recommend making other healthy lifestyle choices to help prevent AMD: • Smoking. If you smoke, quit.

Studies have shown that people who smoke may be 3-4 times more likely to have AMD. • Exercise. Not only can physical activity reduce risk for AMD, but it may also slow progression of the disease.

• Watch your numbers. This includes controlling your weight, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

• Adequate protection. Protect your eyes and be sure to wear sunglasses, especially in strong sunlight.

Petcare

The dog days of summer

Don’t let summer fun turn deadly.

What you need to know to keep the summer months safe and comfortable for your pets.

S

ummer means barbecues, fireworks, family holidays and trips to the cottage, but for our furry friends it can also be a season fraught with troubles and trauma.

Summer safety hazards and ways you can keep your pets safe and comfortable

on these areas to help prevent sunburn and skin cancer.

Animals who are suffering from heat stroke can be cooled down by applying cold water to the skin or by placing them in a bathtub filled with cool water. Give your pet small amounts of drinking water and seek immediate veterinary attention.

Heat stroke Every summer, pets suffer from the heat including brain damage and organ failure. Signs of excessive heat exposure in dogs include: • Exaggerated panting • Anxious or staring expression • Salivating • Weakness or lethargy • Lack of coordination • Convulsions, seizures or muscle tremors Animals more at risk of collapse or death from the heat are those who are tied up or left in poorly ventilated areas such as cars. When outside, your pet should have access to shade and plenty of fresh water.

And remember that pets have padded feet and the sidewalk may be too hot for them. Instead, walk them instead on the grass if possible and preferably in the early morning or evening.

Some experts also advise against shaving your pets in the effort to keep them cooler because it increases the risk of sunburn. Some pets, especially those with lightcoloured noses or light-coloured fur on their ears, may require sunscreen

Parasite control The warm weather brings with it risks from disease-transmitting insects such as ticks, mosquitoes or fleas. Experts advise pet owners to inspect a pet’s fur for insects daily, either by hand or with a specialized comb. Heartworm can be spread by mosquitoes to dogs, cats and ferrets.

Fleas can transmit tapeworms to dogs and cats, as well as bartonella or cat scratch fever to cats. And fire ants are often more than just a nuisance and may cause welts and swelling for your pet.

Possible signs of infection include unusual head bobbing, lethargy and progressive weakening. Be sure to keep your pet’s medical records up to date and give monthly medication to prevent heartworm. Over the counter medications such as insect repellents and flea collars are also available to help prevent insect bites.

And avoid walking your dogs in areas with a lot of mosquitoes, say experts. Pet owners should also refrain from using insect spray on dogs because they will likely lick it off and ingest it.

Page 30 Mature Living July 2012

Travel arrangements The skies are not always friendly for animals travelling during the summer months. Dogs such as Pekingese and Pugs, and cats such as Persians, have shorter noses than most other breeds and can experience more difficulty breathing on an airplane, say experts.

When travelling by car, never leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle.

Even with the window open a crack, a car’s temperature can reach the mid 30s in a matter of moments.

Poisonous plants Many garden plants such as daffodils, marigolds and avocados can be toxic if your dog or cat eats them. Other plants that can be harmful to pets include: buttercup, chokecherry, eggplant, foxglove, lily-of-the-valley, philodendron, tulip, rhubarb, English ivy and rhododendron. For more information on plants that can make your pet sick, see the ISPCA’s list of Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants.

Pets can also become ill from fertilizer and insecticides. Be careful applying lawn chemicals and be sure they are not near a water dish where a pet might drink them.

Fireworks displays and thunderstorms Summer fireworks and thunderstorms can scare your pet and cause them to run off or cause damage in their frightened state.

Keep pets indoors where they can

feel comfortable and safe. Other tips include: • Close the curtains • Provide distractions such as turning on the radio or TV or by playing with your pet. Act normal or upbeat, and reward appropriate behaviour • If pet birds are affected by the loud noise, keep them in their cage with the cover on.

Secure play areas Be sure to keep the outdoor area of your home pet safe by keeping gates closed and checking for gaps in the fencing or other means of escape.

Win a 2 Night Golden Break for Two at the Four Star Clay!on Hotel Galway Win an amazing two night Golden Year Break at the luxurious four star Clayton Hotel in Galway

The prize which is based on two adults sharing includes the following: • 2 nights luxurious accommodation with Full Irish Breakfast each morning • 2 Evening Meals in the Enclosure Bar & Bistro or the Tribes Restaurant • One Full Guided Day Tour of either Connemara or the Cliffs of Moher • Tea & Homemade Scones on one afternoon • Complimentary access to Leisure Centre incl. 20m pool, Sauna & Steam Room To be in with a chance to win this fantastic break, simply answer the question and send your answer, along with your name, address, email address and telephone number into us at the address below...

Question: What is the name of the Restaurant at the Clayton Hotel?

Send your entries into us at ‘Clayton Hotel Competition’ Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, Northwest Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo Terms and Conditions Apply, Closing Date for enties is August 4th 2012

GOLDEN YEAR PACKAGES

2B&B, 2 Dinners from €109pps • 3B&B, 3 Dinners from €159pps (No Single Supplement Applies)

• Luxurious accommodation with Full Irish Breakfast each morning • Dinner on each evening in the Enclosure Bar & Bistro or the Tribes Restaurant • One Full Guided Day Tour of either Connemara or the Cliffs of Moher • Tea & Homemade Scones on one afternoon • Free Parking & Complimentary News Paper • Additional discounts available for local activities.

• Complimentary access to Leisure Centre incl. 20m pool, Sauna, Steam Room (The above are valid Sun – Thu. inclusive or weekends at an additional cost) Please Quote ‘ Mature Living Magazine’ to avail of Golden Year Specials above We also cater for private groups and tailor make Active Retirement Breaks upon Request.

Call (091) 721900 Email: reservations@clayton.ie Web: www.clayton.ie

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Technology

Elvis to be resurrected as a hologram

The King of Rock 'n Roll will appear in virtual form for a series of shows and appearances throughout the world.

D

igital Domain Media Group – the company that won an Oscar for creating a completely believable computer-generated human – and CORE Media Group have announced an exclusive deal to jointly develop, produce and own a series of “virtual” Elvis Presley holograms to be used in performances on television, film and on stage around the world.

Holograms have become a buzz word lately, after DDMG created a computer generated version of deceased rapper Tupac Shakur to perform with Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg during the Coachella Valley Music Festival this past April.

In a statement to the press, Elvis Presley Enterprises President and CEO, Jack Soden had this to say about the new development: “This is a new and exciting way to bring the magic and music of Elvis

Presley to life. His lifelong fans will be thrilled all over again and new audiences will discover the electric experience of Elvis the performer. The high level of quality entertainment that both CORE Media Group and Digital Domain deliver gives us great confidence that these projects will help continue the growth ofElvis’ rich legacy all over the world.”

Although they have yet to announce where or when the Elvis hologram will have its debut, they have already begun working on creating it.

Digital Domain Media Group Chairman and CEO John Textor noted their excitement for this project. “Elvis is the most iconic, most recognized performer on the planet, and we are thrilled to have been chosen to bring new performances and original shows where fans can have their own, new experiences of Elvis. In addition to being a dream project on the cre-

ative side, this agreement enables us to participate in the success of any number of potential virtual Elvis appearances.” This won’t be the first time the King has appeared in a vir-

tual form. In a 2007 episode of American Idol, they used a process called rotoscoping to generate a duet of Elvis and Celine Dion performing “If I Can Dream” together

More Irish online than EU average - and more of us are using mobile devices MORE Irish go online using mobile devices than EU average - Irish results also show higher figures for shopping online, and researching online and purchasing offline Mediascope, an in-depth analysis of media consumption on a European basis, was launched this month and shows that a higher percentage of Irish are online when compared to the EU average (80% Ireland – 65% EU).

Irish people are also more likely to access the Internet using mobile devices with 32% of users in Ireland and 21% in the EU using smartphones to go online. The Irish also index higher for shopping online (97% Ireland – 87% EU) and for ROPO - Researching online and shopping offline (88% Ireland – 79% EU) Key findings for Mediascope in Ireland are: A higher percentage of Irish are online in comparison to the EU average: • 80% of all Irish are online (2.9m people),compared to EU average of 65% • Irish Internet users spend on average

13.5 hrs online per week Specifically in Ireland, but also across Europe, Mediascope shows that the Internet is increasingly becoming the channel of choice for consumption of other media – TV, radio, newspapers.

• 81% of Irish Internet users watch TV online (EU 73%) • 66% of Irish Internet users listen to the radio online (EU 67%) • 89% of Irish Internet users read news online (EU 91%) Mobile: Another feature standing out for Ireland is how we are increasingly accessing the Internet via mobiles, tablets and game consoles.

• 32% (1.2m) of Irish go online using a mobile (EU 21%) • 12% (0.4m) of Irish go online using a tablet (EU 8%) Internet Influence on Purchases – online and offline: The Internet heavily influences peoples’ perceptions of brands and products and both their online and offline purchase decisions.

• 53% of all Irish Internet users state the Internet helps them choose better products / services (EU 51%) • 97% of all Irish Internet users shop online (EU 87%) • 88% of all Irish Internet users research online and purchase offline (EU 79%) • €685 is the average amount spent per person in Ireland across a 6 month period (EU €544) “Mediascope Ireland provides a detailed analysis of media consumption in the Irish market, this data provides advertisers with rich insights into their target markets’ media usage” said Suzanne McElligott, Chief Executive Officer of IAB Ireland.

‘The research highlights that Ireland’s internet penetration is higher than the EU average, also Ireland indexes higher than the EU in respect of shopping online and researching online purchasing offline (ROPO). Ireland is now punching above its weight in terms of online adoption – Mediascope

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proves that digital has moved centre stage as the channel of media consumption and this will in turn drive growth in Irish online advertising budgets’” McElligott predicted.

The Internet is more important for Irish users when deciding to purchase certain products than EU average: Travel Tickets Ireland................................76% EU Average..........................57% Holidays Ireland................................73% EU Average..........................53% Mobiles Ireland................................57% EU Average..........................50% Insurance Ireland................................67% EU Average..........................39%

Feature by Jamie Grant of Grant Water Ltd

What are we Drinking?

B

ottled water companies use terms like natural or pure water accompanied by colorful terms like glacier, sparkling, or mountain water. There is not a standard definition for terms that are used freely by companies for attracting buyers. Misleading customers is simply a way to increase revenue. Bottled water companies have to abide by less regulation than tap water systems. Unfortunately, this means that man-made chemical, mineral, and bacterial contamination is in bottled water, and despite its great taste, it can affect our health.

Acquiring the Best Purification System Before investing in any purification system, it is important you do research beforehand. The more information you know about how it works and other systems the more educated decision you will make.

Water is the most important element for better health, which is why it is important you are informed before you make any decisions when purchasing a water purifying system.

A purification system will allow you to have access to potable water with- out making a huge dent on the environment and your wallet. Consuming bottled water affects the environment. Nearly 86 percent of plastic water bottles in the country become litter.

For more information about commercial or residential water purification systems and how you can benefit from them, contact Jamie at Grant Water on 086 086 3991

What Should We Be Drinking?

The healthy alternative to bottled water is purified drinking water. Water purification systems use the art of reverse osmosis, which removes harsh contaminants that our bodies do not need, and commercial and residential water softeners to reduce the effects of hard water, which consists of metals. These harsh contaminants can leave mineral traces in your bloodstream and eventually affect your kidneys. Cool and fresh water is available from purified water systems that can be installed in your own home.

The Research In order to prevent dissatisfaction after purchasing your purification system, it is recommended you do a little research.

Here are some of the most common purification systems out there: Reverse Osmosis- This type of purification is well known for removing contaminants from the water. Reverse osmosis is used by the U.S. Army to purify water when they are out in the field.

Water softening- Water softening is the process that reduces the concentration of magnesium, calcium and other metals that hard water contains. Hardness ions in the water can cause galvanic corrosion and lime scale build up.

Ultraviolet- This type of purification protects your water against mold and fungi by using BioCote technology, which also offers antimicrobial protection. This type of filtering is commonly found in bottomless filtered water coolers.

Purification Systems Water is one of the most important elements to health and survival. The quality of the water determines the quality of our lives and health. This is why it is so important that we pay close attention to the water we are drinking and what we are using to purify it. The treatment that the water needs depends on its source. Water might contain a number of pollutants that are detrimental to your health, which is why it’s important that you make sure that your water gets the right treatment before you drink it.

For environmentally friendly water purification systems, contact Jamie at Grant Water on 1890 227220.

Investing in a Purification System Investing in a purification system is a good way to save money. People spend and average of $11 billion a year in water bottles. When shopping for a purification system, it is important to have two things in mind, health and safety. It depends on the origin of the Page 33 Mature Living July 2012

water that indicates what type of purification system or processes the water needs.

Water can be subtracted from lakes or rivers. When this is the case, the water has to go through three different treatments, reverse osmosis, selective distillation and filtration. Distillation is used to completely eliminate bacteria.

Boiling the water serves the same purpose ¾bacteria-like E. coli will be eliminated.

However, in the situation of a natural disaster, water that comes from a treatment facility might not be completely purified.

Reverse osmosis is the process of passing water through a semi-permeable membrane in the opposite direction to the natural osmosis. Reverse osmosis is the process of moving water through a membrane from lower concentration to higher concentration. Pressure is applied on the side of the high concentrated solution, forcing water to the freshwater side. The membrane will not allow other solutes to go through.

Top Diseases Caused by Unsanitary Water Many diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and jaundice are carried by water. It is known that nearly 80% of the diseases in the world come as a result of water borne infections. This is why it is so important that you pay close attention to the water you drink or use.

A water purification system will provide you and your family with pure and refreshing drinking water while you save money you would otherwise spend on expensive bottled water. Additionally, by installing a purification system in your home or business, it will benefit the environment as well.

Diseases Polluted water will not only affect your inner health but also your outer appearance. There are many diseases related to polluted water. Among the most common include: Diarrhea- Caused by bacteria, protozoans and viruses in the water, a person can lose a massive amount of electrolytes and water. If not taken care of correctly, a person could get dehydrated and die. One of the most significant public health issues is diarrhea, which is directly related to unsanitary water.

Cholera- It is a bacterial infection of the intestinal tract.

This infection causes severe diarrhea, which if not treated correctly, can lead to dehydration and death. Cholera is directly related to the intake of undrinkable water, good hygiene physical and food hygiene and sanitation.

Arsenicosis- This happens when the body is constantly exposed to low concentrations of arsenic in a long period of time. Arsenicosis can result in a variety of cancers including: lung, skin, bladder and kidney.

The key to preventing waterborne diseases is by washing your hands with soap and water and drinking purified water.

Collooney, Sligo • T: 071-913 0956 • M: 086-086 3991

www.grantwater.ie • info@grantwater.ie

Purified Drinking Water System

Only €349 normally €749

The average household spends €15 per week on bottled water, €780 per annum* A professionally fitted GRANT WATER Domestic Purification System costs €8.63 per week in year one and then its free

House and Home

Home Sweet Home: Keeping Your Nest Safe & Secure During Summer Holidays Most of us relish the relaxed pace summer provides and eagerly anticipate spending time away from home with family and friends. But failing to adequately prepare your home and property for your absence can prove costly—and make them a potential target for burglars.

Don't Let It Be You Nine out of 10 home break-ins could be prevented if homeowners would take steps to burglarproof their homes Losses from burglary can also directly affect the cost of your homeowners insurance, so it is wise to prepare your home for your absence ahead of time to save you money and headaches later.

Readying Your Home The best way to keep your home safe in your absence is to make it appear you are home, leaving absolutely no clue you're actually away. Light, time and noise are your greatest weapons to accomplish this, according to the III. Follow these tips along those lines to ready your home and keep it safe: Ask someone you know and trust to keep an eye on your house.

Stop delivery of your mail and newspapers—or have a friend or neighbour pick them up for you.

Keep bushes and shrubs near your home's entrance and walkway well trimmed. Overgrown shrubs provide easy camouflage for burglars.

Use timers on lights, televisions and radios to provide sound and illuminate the inside of your home.

Keep shades up and blinds and curtains open to make it appear you're home.

Keep the outside of your home well lit. Burglars won't go where they can be seen.

Arrange to have your lawn mowed.

Ask a neighbour to park in your driveway, occasionally moving his or Page 34 Mature Living July 2012

her car indicate your coming and going.

Change the setting on your answering machine so it picks up on the first or second ring—or just turn down the ringer. A constantly ringing phone is also a good sign no one is home.

Protecting Against Disaster Protecting your home from electrical mishaps, fire and flooding while you're gone is also important.

Before you leave, unplug everything but the refrigerator, freezer, and the lights and radios you have set on timers. Check to be sure the oven and stove, as well as small heatgenerating appliances such as hair dryers and curling irons, are turned off.

If you'll be away a week or more, turn off the water to your sinks, toilets, dishwasher and washing machine. Many a homeowner has returned home too late, only to find that an aged washing machine hose or dishwasher part has broken, flooding their home and causing hundreds or even thousands of euros in damage.

This not only requires costly repair, but can also raise the price of your homeowners or renter's insurance.

Setting your hot water heater on the lowest heat setting possible will keep it functioning at a minimum level, while saving you money on your energy bills.

Preventing Break-Ins A significant number of break-ins could be prevented with simple precautions such as canceling a newspaper delivery, placing timers on lamps, and having a neighbour take in the post. But there are other measures you can take to guard your home against break-ins, too. The article “15 Keys to Protect your Home While you are on Holiday” reports that some 28 percent of burglaries occur without the perpetrator using force to gain entrance—which means they enter through an unlocked or open door or window. This underscores the importance of locking your home's doors and windows when you leave on that vacation.

Examining your house from the street to make sure no valuables are within sight can also deter burglary. If a passerby can see your expensive artwork or electronics, so can a criminal.

The article states houses without security systems are about three times more likely to be burglarized than those with them. In fact, burglars tend to avoid neighbourhoods with burglar alarms altogether. In addition, most insurance companies provide discounts of two to 15 percent for safety devices such as smoke, fire or burglar alarms; deadbolt locks; and window grates or bars. This provides you with extra incentive for installing such safety equipment in your home.

Sliding glass doors provide another point of entrance for burglars, and should be secured by placing a metal rod in the track, or by adding a bolt

lock. This will prevent an intruder from forcing the door open and gaining entry into your home.

Finally, automatic garage door openers should be unplugged on your way out. Savvy burglars can discover the code and use it to open your garage door. You do not want to return home from that relaxing vacation, only to find you must place a homeowners insurance claim to cover your loss!

Insuring Your Home Never leave home on your summer holidays without making sure you have adequate home insurance protection for your house and belongings. How much you need depends on the value of your home and its contents. Talk to a local homeowners insurance agent to find out exactly what type of policy you need and how much coverage is warranted… before you go.

Remember, increasing your home's protection against intruders can save you money on your home insurance premiums. So take every precaution— and enjoy the savings!

Prepare—and Enjoy!

Going on holiday should be the most relaxing time of the year and taking a few precautions can help ensure tranquility during your time away from home—and when you return.

Don't let your home and everything you've worked so hard for become a target for burglary or disaster. You can prepare, relax and get away from it all…and then return to your home sweet home.

House and Home

Right Price Alarms

Page 35 Mature Living July 2012

The Rose of Innisfree

Peace comes dropping slowly to the Lake Isle of Innisfree

Lough Gill is a haven of peace and tranquillity situated just a few kilometres from the city of Sligo and straddling the lush countryside of Counties Sligo and Leitrim.

T

he lake is a calm and peaceful place of astounding beauty and unspoilt nature. From the early morning mists to the splendour of a wild orange sunset, it recalls the myths and legends of Celtic lore and the romanticism of Yeats poetry. A boat trip on Lough Gill is a memorable and enjoyable experience for tourists and locals alike. The Rose of Innisfree Tour boats have been gliding through these waters for some twenty years For anyone considering exploring the lake, it makes sound sense, as it brings the two necessities, a warm and pleasant shelter if needed, where you can still admire the views

Page 36 Mature Living July 2012

despite the uncertainties of the Irish summer, and the expertise of George McGoldrick, for a true appreciation of the nature and history of the lake.

Skipper George McGoldrick was born and raised on the shores of Lough Gill.“I didn’t really appreciate it growing up, but with tourists you see it through new eyes, and it is scenery as good if not better, than anywhere in the country” he laughs.

He has been married to Tina for 37 years. Originally from Kiltyclogher, Tina, recently took retirement from nursing to work harder than ever at the family business. “Each of my four children has taken their turn

working on the boats. Rebecca, my youngest daughter, is looking after the cabin with me this summer. As secretary of the company, I have plenty to do and have always been involved, but I love the lake and meeting new people every day“ The current boat, The Rose of Innisfree, was purpose built for the cruises. Refreshments are available on board, with a welcome cup of tea or coffee and home-baked goods, or, if you prefer, something from the well stocked bar. George, boat man and tour-guide, has a wealth of knowledge of the geology, archaeology and history of the lake and the surrounding areas; he imparts this knowledge in his own inimitable style. “People love to join in when you are reciting Yeats poetry. It makes them feel part of the trip.” The perfect starting point for the tour is the impressive Parkes Castle, near Dromahair, Co Leitrim.

This lovingly restored castle from the 17th Century, picturesquely situated on the shores of Lough Gill, is worth a visit in itself. The views of the castle, retreating into the distance as you traverse the lake, are incredible and the landscape takes on a new perspective once you are on the water, as Ireland's best kept secret, the beauty of the Northwest, is revealed in all its glory. One of the highlights of the cruise is the famed lake isle of Innisfree. The lake is surrounded by woods and mountains and rolling hills. It is the scenery which inspired

Yeats and continues to inspire today.

The boat is available for private parties, hen and stag parties and corporate events and this leisurely cruise provides a perfect back drop for lively conversation and craic.

What better place to escape and relax, as peace comes dropping slowly to this magical lake.

You can see the advert for boat tours on Lough Gill on Page 5 of this magazine

Family Days Out

We have seven vehicles from taxis to coach hire. All vehicles are finished to a high standard. We have a wide selection of Minibuses, Coaches and Cars to cater for all your needs Here at Gillespie's taxi and coach hire we provide tours and outings to suit groups of any size. We can cater for all these outings and much, much more:

Airport Transfers

We can provide a bus or car to meet you at any Irish airport and bring you to your hotel/destination. Your driver will load your luggage so just sitbackand relax!

• Walking and SightseeingTours.

• Social and Sporting events.

• Christmas Parties.

• Golfing Breaks.

Chauffeur Drive Whether it's: Heading to the Races?

Shopping Trip? Weddings? Night out with friends? Then let us do the driving!

Crossmolina, Co. Mayo, Ireland • Tel: 085 764 6523 • find us on Facebook www.gillespiescoaches.com • gillespiestaxi@yahoo.ie

Page 37 Mature Living June 2012

Motoring

10TH - 15TH JUNE 2012 4TH ANNUAL WELCOME HOME FESTIVAL

Symptoms of Drive Shaft Problems

COMMERCIAL RANGE VOLKSWAGEN RANGE 2012 FLEET COMMERCIALS 2012 VW Crafter 2.0 MWB ...........................€26,500 2012 VW Crafter 2.0TDI LWB H/R ................€29,500 2012 VW Amarok 163BHP 4Motion...............€35,500 2012 VW Caddy Maxi TDI 4 Motion 2.0.........€21,500 2012 VW Caddy TDI......................................€14,500 2012 VW Transporter 2.0TDI..........................€22,500 TRANSPORTER RANGE 2011 VW Transporter 2.0 DSL SWB...............€19,500 2010 VW Transporter 2.5TDI 6Sp LWB............€19,500 2010 VW Transporter 1.9TDI .........................€16,500 2009 VW Transporter 1.9TDI SWB.................€13,500 2008 VW Transporter 1.9TDI SWB................€11,500 2008 VW Transporter 2.5 LWB.......................€13,500 2007 VW Transporter 1.9TDI..........................€11,000 2007 VW Transporter 2.5TDI 6Sp...................€10,500 2006 VW Transporter 2.5TDI 6Sp.....................€7,500 2005 VW Transporter 2.5TDI 6Sp.....................€6,500 2005 VW Transporter 2.5TDI Pick Up...............€6,500 2003 VW Transporter 2.5TDI...........................€3,500 2002 VW Transporter 2.5TDI...........................€2,500 2000 VW Transporter 2.5TDI...........................€2,000 CADDY RANGE 2012 VW Caddy Van TDI Choice...................€14,500 2010 VW Caddy Van TDI Choice...................€11,500 2009 VW Caddy Maxi Extras.........................€10.500 2009 VW Caddy Van TDI.................................€9,950 2009 VW Caddy TDI 7 Seat Choice................€18,500 2008 VW Caddy Maxi ....................................€9,000 2008 VW Caddy TDI.......................................€8,500 2007 VW Caddy TDI........................................€7,000 2004 V W Caddy TDI.......................................€3,500 2002 VW Caddy TDI.......................................€2,500 2001 VW Caddy TDI........................................€1,500 CRAFTER RANGE 2012 VW Crafter 3.5 MWB............................€26,500 2011 VW Crafter 3.5 LWB 0 Mileage.....€22,360+VAT 2008 VW Crafter...........................................€15,000 2008 VW Crafter 2.5 LWB HR 9000KL....€14.600+VAT 2007 VW Crafter ..........................................€13,500 TOUAREG RANGE 2010 VW Touareg 2.5TDI Comm Extras..........€22,500 2009 VW Touareg 2.5TDI A/T........................€16,500 2008 VW Touareg 2.5TDI A/T........................€13,500 2007 VW Touareg 2.5TDI Com.......................€13,500 2005 VW Touareg 2.5TDI Passenger...............€12,500 2004 VW Touareg 2.5TDI Passenger...............€10,500 MITSUBISHI RANGE 2012 Mitsubishi L 200 Kombi 5 Seat Canopy...€32,500 2010 Mitsubishi L200 Extras Canopy...............€24,500 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander Commercial...........€18,500 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander Commercial...........€15,000 2008 L200 kombi 5 Seater ( Full Canopy).......€15,000 2008 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5Sports....................€15,500 2008 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 LWB......................€15,000 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0Dsl 7 Seater......€13,500 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2.............................€12,500 2006 Mitsubishi L200.......................................€9,500 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 LWB......................€11,500 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 SWB.....................€10,500 CITROEN RANGE 2007 Citroen Berlingo......................................€5,000 2006 Citroen Xsara Pacasso DSl.......................€7,000 2005 Citroen Berlingo DSl................................€3,950 2005 Citroen Despatch....................................€5,000 2004 Citroen Berlingo DSL...............................€3,000 2003 Citroen Berlingo Dsl................................€2,750 2001 Citroen Berlingo Dsl.................................€1,500

TOYOTA RANGE 2009 Toyota Hi-Ace Van LWB.........................€10,500 2007 Toyota Hiace Van....................................€6,500 2007 Toyota Rav4 1.6Petrol..............................€7,500 2005 Toyota Yaris D4D Van..............................€5,000 FORD RANGE 2009 Ford Transit 350 H/R Van........................€9,000 2008 Ford Transit 350 H/R Van........................€8,000 2008 Ford Transit Connect Kombi 5Seater.......€10,500 2008 Ford Transit 260......................................€9,000 2007 Ford Transit 280......................................€7,500 2007 Ford Transit 260......................................€6,500 ISUZU RANGE 2005 Isuzu Trooper Dsl....................................€5,000 2004 Isuzu Trooper Dsl...................................€4,500 2003 Isuzu Trooper Dsl...................................€3,500 2002 Isuzu Trooper..........................................€2,000 PEUGEOT RANGE 2007 Peugeot Partner Dsl Van..........................€5,000 2007 Peugeot 407 DSL Estate..........................€8,000 2007 Peugeot 307 1.4 5DR..............................€6,500 2005 Peugeot Partner DSL................................€3,500 KIA RANGE 2008 Kia Carnival DSL 7 Seater.....................€11,500 2007 Kia Sportage 2.0DSL Comm..................€7,500 2005 Kia Sedona DSL 7 Seater.........................€7,500 OPEL RANGE 2008 Opel Vivaro DSL Com LWB......................€9,000 2007 Opel Astra DSL Van.................................€7,500 2007 Opel Combi DSL.....................................€5,000 2007 Opel Zafari 7 Seater Dsl........................€10,500 2006 Opel Vivaro Dsl Com..............................€6,500 SUZUKI RANGE 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara Dsl 4x4................€16,500 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara Dsl........................€13,500 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara 4 X4 Dsl Pass...........€9,500 2004 Suzuki Jimmy 1.3 Petrol...........................€5,000 NISSAN RANGE 2007 Nissan Navara 2.5TDI C/C Canapy.........€9,500 2007 Nissan Navara 2.5TDI Crew Cab A/T....€10,500 2007 Nissan Pathfinder DSL A/T.......................€9,500 RENAULT RANGE 2007 Renault Master 2.7 Pick up 5 Seater.........€6,500 2006 Renault Master DSL.................................€7,500 2005 Renault Master DSL.................................€6,500 2004 Renault Master DSL.................................€4,500 2001 Renault Espace 2.0 Passenger..................€2,500 LANDROVER RANGE 2008 Landrover Defender Dsl hardtop 12K.....€18,500 2006 Landrover Discovery SE 2.8 V6................€9,500 2005 Landrover Discovery 3 DSL......................€8,500 2005 Landrover Passenger ..............................€6,500 2003 Landrover Defender LWB.........................€6,000 BUSES RANGE 2009 VW Touran 7 Seater DSL.......................€18,500 2009 VW Touran 7 Seater DSL A/T Extras.......€19,500 2009 VW LT 2.5 tdi 15 Seater (9Kl).................€27,500 2009 VW Shuttle 1.9 TDI 9 Seater...................€27,500 2009 Peugeot Expert Tepee Dsl 9 Seater.........€16,500 2008 VW Shuttle 8 Seater..............................€22,500 2007 VW CaravelleA/T Bus 8 seater LWB.......€16,500 2007 Opel Zafari DSL 7 Seater.......................€10,500 2007 VW Sharan TDI 7 Seater........................€13,500 2006 VW Shuttle 1.9 TDI 9 Seater...................€12,500

MERCEDES RANGE 2009 Mercedes Vito.......................................€11,500 2008 Mercedes Sprinter 303..........................€12,500

AL: 086-2449645 • DAMIEN: 087-2368841 • DEREK: 086-8119141 • NIALL: 087-6385033 • ALAN: 087-4153872

AL HAYES MOTORS LTD., www.alhayesmotors.com GALWAY RD., PORTUMNA, CO. GALWAY

Tel: 090 9741390, 090 9742200

A

vehicle's drive shaft, the rotating object located between the differentials and gear box, helps it switch from idle to drive; without it, a vehicle would never move. Usually, a drive shaft does not fail instantaneously, and deterioration happens over time. Accordingly, if drive shaft problems are recognized early, you can avoid costly repairs. There are various symptoms that indicate if your vehicle's drive shaft is faulty.

Vibration A damaged drive shaft can cause the vehicle to vibrate. The entire vehicle or parts of it, especially the floor panels, may shake and tremble, and the vibration will often intensify and worsen at increased speed. Severe vibrations can also indicate a bad tire; however, vibrations from tire problems usually happen during acceleration, whereas drive shaft problems cause vibration when the vehicle is moving or stationary.

Sounds A vehicle may emit noises if the drive shaft is bad. You may hear a low squeaking sound that intensifies with increases in speed.

The sound may completely

disappear when traveling at higher speeds and reappear as the vehicle decelerates. This is often the result of a severely damaged Ujoint, a part connected to the drive shaft.

Turning Issues A drive shaft problem can prevent your vehicle's wheels form turning properly. You may notice that the wheels hesitate when you turn a corner. You may feel resistance from the tires when making sharp turns or U-turns. You might also experience parking problems while trying to maneuver the wheels to turn into tight spaces.

Universal Joint Movement A U-joint, or universal joint, that moves too much or does not rotate at all can indicate a drive shaft problem. To inspect the U-joint, set the parking brake and shift the vehicle into neutral. Move the yokes of the U-joint back and forth to check for flexibility. If there is excess movement in any direction, the U-joint is unstable and could negatively affect the drive shaft.

Also, visible rust on the bearing cap seals surrounding the U-joint can indicate a drive shaft problem.

PRE –REG CARS 0 MILEAGE 2012 Vw Touran TDI Comfortline 7 Seater.....€29,800 2012 VW Touran 1.6TDI 5 Seater.................€25,500 2012 VW Touran 1.6TDI 7 Seater................€28,500 2012 VW Tiguan TDI Passenger Extras..........€28,500 2012 VW Passat CC 2.0TDI 140BHP.............€33,500 2012 VW Passah HL Silver Metallic...............€29,500 2012 VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline Extras....€27,500 2012 VW Jetta 1.6TDI..................................€23,500 2012 VW Jetta 1.6 C/L Extras......................€24,900 2012 VW Golf 1.6 TDI Plus Model................€23,500 2012 VW Golf 1.6TDI..................................€21,500 2012 VW Polo 1.2TDI..................................€16,500 2012 VW Polo 1.2 TDI C/L Extras..................€17,500 2012 VW Up...............................................€10,800 2010 /2011 FLEET RANGE 2011 VW Scirroco 2.0TDI Extras...............€25,500 2011 VW Golf 1.6 TDI Comfortline...............€19,500 2011 VW Fox..............................................€10,500 2010 VW Scirroco 1.4TSI 122BHP.................€21,500 BEETLE RANGE 2008 VW Beetle 1.4 High 12KM..................€14,000 2007 VW Beetle Cabriolet 1.4 18KM...........€12,500 PASSAT RANGE 2011 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP C/line........€24,500 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI Highline Extras.........€25,500 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI Estate 0 Mileage......€26,500 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline .............€22,500 2010 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Highline.....€22,500 2010 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140bhp Comfortline.€21,000 2010 VW Passat 1.6TDI................................€18,500 2010 VW Passat 1.9TDI Comfortline.............€19,500 2009 VW Passat 1.9TDI ..............................€16,500 2009 VW Passat 2.0 TDI 140BHP Leather.....€18,500 2009 VW Passat 1.4TSI Comfortline A/T.......€16,500 2008 VW Passat 2.0TDI C/L A/T..................€16,500 2008 VW Passat 1.9TDI...............................€13,500 2008 VW Passat 2.0TDI C/Line 140BHP........€16,500 JETTA RANGE 2012 VW Jetta 1.6 TDI C/L A/T....................€26,500 2012 VW Jetta 1.6TDI .................................€23,500 2011 VW Jetta 1.4 TSI Comfortline................€19,500 2010 VW Jetta 1.6 TDI Comfortline..............€22,500 2010 VW Jetta 1.4 TSI Petrol.......................€15,000 2010 VW Jetta 1.6|TDI C/L..........................€17,500 2009 VW Jetta 1.6FSI Petrol.........................€11,500 2009 VW Jetta 1.9TDI Comfortline...............€14,500 2008 VW Jetta 1.9TDI.................................€12,500 2008 VW Jetta 1.9TDI Automatic...............€16,500 2008 VW Jetta 1.6 FSI...................................€9,500 2007 VW Jetta 1.9TDI...................................€9,500 2006 VW Jetta 1.9TDI C/L.............................€7,500 GOLF RANGE 2012 VW golf 1.6TDI Plus Model..................€22,500 2011 VW Golf 1.6TDI BM Cabriolet..............€24,500 2011 VW Golf 1.6TDI 5DR Comfortline.........€19,500 2011 VW Golf 1.2TSI 5DR............................€17,500 2011 VW Golf 1.6TDI Plus Model..................€21,500 2010 VW Golf 1.6TDI Plus Comfortline.........€18,500 2010 VW Golf 1.2TSI High Line Model..........€16,500 2010 VW Golf 1.6TDI 5DR...........................€17,500 2009 VW Golf 2.0TDI..................................€16,500 2009 VW Golf 1.4 Comfortline 5Dr..............€14,500 2009 VW Golf TDI Comfortline....................€15,500 2008 VW Golf 1.4GT Sports........................€10,500 POLO RANGE 2011 VW Polo Petrol 5DR Choice €11,500 2011 VW Polo Diesel 5DR Choice €13,500 2010 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €10,500 2010 VW Polo 1.6TDI €12,500 2009 VW Polo Petrol 5DR €9,500 2008 VW Polo 1.2 5DR Choice €8,000 2007 VW Polo 1.2 5DR Choice €7,500 2006 VW Polo 1.25DR €6,500 2005 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €5,500

4 X 4 PASSENGER RANGE 2012 VW Tiguan Passenger Extras................€29,500 2010 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 2 Wheel Drive.......€24,500 2009 VW Touran TDI 7 Seater.....................€16,500 2008 VW Tiguan 2.0DSL 4x4 Passenger.......€21,000 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitaro 2.0DSL 4x4.........€16,500 2008 Hyundia Touscan 2.0 DSL......................€9,500 2008 Kia Carnival 7 Seater..........................€12,500 2008 Mitsubishi L200 Intense Model 5 Seat..€15,500 2007 Citroen C8 2.0DSL 7 Seater...................€9,500 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSL 7 Seat.....€13,500 ESTATE CARS 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI Trendline 12k Mls.....€22,500 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI Estate 0 Mileage......€26,500 2009 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Estate ........€13,500 2007 VW Passat 2.0 Leather 140 BHP...........€10,500 2005 VW Golf 1.9TDI Comfortline (Extras).....€6,500 2003 VW Passat 1.9TDI.................................€6,500 7 SEATER RANGE 2012 VW Touran TDI 7 Seater.....................€27,500 2009 VW Touran 1.9TDI Automatic..............€18,500 2007 VW Sharan TDI 7 Seater.....................€13,500 2006 Ford Galaxy 7 Seater Zetec Model......€11,500 2004 VW Sharan 1.9TDI 7 Seater...................€7,500 2003 Ford Galaxy TDI 7 Seater.....................€6,000 AUDI RANGE 2010 A4 2.0TDI Extras.................................€26,500 2009 A4 2.0TDI..........................................€22,500 2008 A4 2.0TDI..........................................€19,500 2008 A6 2.0TDI Automatic...........................€17,500 2008 A3 2.0TDI 5DR...................................€15,000 2007 A4 1.9TDI...........................................€13,500 2006 A4 2.0TDI...........................................€11,500 VOLVO RANGE 2008 Volvo S40 1.8 Flexifuel Extras...............€9,500 2007 Volvo S40 1.6 DSL..............................€11,500 2006 Volvo S40 1.6DSL.................................€9,500 2004 Volvo S40 1.8 Petrol.............................€5,000 2004 Volvo S40 1.9DSL.................................€4,500 1999 Volvo V70 2.0 Estate............................€2,500 TOYOTA RANGE 2009 Toyota Avensis D4D New Engine.........€15,000 2009 Toyota Auris 1.4 3dr............................€11,000 2008 Toyota Corolla 1.4................................€8,000 2008 Toyota Avenis Dsl Est Verso.................€12,500 2008 Toyota Verso 1.6 7 Seater...................€12,500 2007 Toyota Auris 1.4 H/B............................€8,500 2007 Toyota Auris 1.4 DSl...........................€10,500 FORD RANGE 2010 Ford Fiesta 1.4 Style A/T.....................€12,500 2009 Ford 1.6 DSL Zetec.............................€12,500 2009 Ford Focus 1.6 5DR..............................€9,500 2008 Ford Mondeo DSL...............................€11,500 2008 Ford Focus 2.0 TDI CC........................€13,500 2008 Ford Fiesta 1.25 ..................................€6,500 2008 Ford Focus 1.6DSL..............................€10,900 2008 Ford Focus 1.6 DSL Van........................€8,500 2007 Ford C Max Petrol................................€6,500 2007 Ford Focus 1.4 5DR...............................€6,500 OPEL RANGE 2008 Opel Corsa 1.2 5DR.............................€6,000 2007 Opel Vectra 1.9DSl...............................€8,500 2007 Opel Astra Van DSL..............................€5,000 2007 Opel Corsa 1.4 5DR.............................€6,500 2007 Opel Zafari Dsl 7 Seater.....................€10,500 2006 Opel Astra 1.4 3DR Sx1........................€6,500 2006 Opel Vectra 1.6....................................€6,000 2006 Opel Zafira 1.6 7 Seater.......................€7,500 2006 Opel Vivaro 1.9 Dsl Van.......................€6,500 2006 Opel Astra 1.7 Dsl Van.........................€6,000 2005 Opel Corsa 1.0 5DR.............................€5,000 2005 Opel Marina 1.4 .................................€5,000 2004 Opel Vectra 1.6....................................€4,000 2003 Opel Vectra Dsl....................................€3,000

SEAT RANGE 2008 Seat Ibiza 1.25 5 Dr Extras...................€6,500 2008 Seat Cordoba 1.4TDI Sal......................€8,500 2006 Seat Cordoba 1.4 Sal...........................€6,000 2005 Seat Cordoba Dsl.................................€5,000 2005 Seat Alhambre 1.9TDI A/T....................€6,500 2004 Seat Cordoba 1.2 Sal...........................€4,500 2003 Seat Ibiza 1.2 5DR...............................€3,500 PEUGEOT RANGE 2010 Peugeot 3008 1.6DSL A/T...................€16,500 2008 Peugeot 308 1.6 Dsl 5Dr.......................€9,000 2007 Peugeot 407 Dsl Estate SW....................€8,500 2007 Peugeot 307 1.4 5Dr ............................€6,500 2007 Peugeot 407 Dsl Solaire Model.............€6,500 2006 Peugeot 307 1.4 5DR............................€6,000 2006 Peugeot 206 5DR.................................€6,000 HONDA RANGE 2005 Honda Civic 1.6...................................€5,000 2005 Honda HRV 1.6....................................€6,000 2004 Honda Accord 2.2 Dsl..........................€5,000 2004 Honda Accord A/T...............................€5,000 2003 Honda Civic 1.4i...................................€4,000 2002 Honda Accord 1.8................................€1,500 2000 Honda Integra 1.6 Petrol.......................€2,000 BMW RANGE 2008 BMW 318 DSl MSport 140BHP............€19,500 2008 BMW 318 Dsl.....................................€13,500 2008 BMW 318i Extras Leather....................€13,500 2007 BMW 320DSL.....................................€11,500 2005 BMW 520 Dsl A/T Extras......................€9,500 2002 BMW 520 DSl......................................€5,000 MITSUBISHI RANGE 2012 Mitsubishi ASX Estate 5Dr Dsl..............€24,500 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8 DSL.....................€21,000 2012 Mitsubishi L200 C/C Canopy...............€32,500 2011 Mitsubishi ASX 1.6 Petrol 5DR..............€21,500 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8 DSL.....................€18,500 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.5 Petrol..................€16,500 2011 Mitsubishi Colt Cabrio 1.5....................€13,500 2011 Mitsubishi Colt 5DR Automatic..............€13,500 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.5 Extras.................€11,500 2010 Mitsubishi L200 Crew Cab Canopy......€24,500 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSl................€18,500 2010 Mitsubishi Colt 5DR Automatic.............€12,500 AUTOMATIC RANGE 2012 VW Jetta 1.6TDI Comfortline Extras.....€26,500 2011 VW Golf 1.6 DSL Comfortline...............€21,500 2011 Mitsubishi Colt 5DR A/T.......................€13,500 2010 VW Golf 2.0TDI 140BHP C/LA/T.........€20,000 2010 Mitsubishi Colt 5DR A/T (5K)...............€12,500 2010 Ford Fiesta 1.4 Style A/T.....................€12,500 2010 Peugeot 3008 1.6 Dsl A/T...................€16,500 2009 VW Passat 1.4 TSI Comfortline.............€16,500 2008 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP C/L A/T.....€16,500 2008 VW Jetta 1.9 TDI DSG.........................€15,000 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 DSL Leather......€20,000 MINI RANGE 2005 Mini 1 1.4 ME32 ( Extras )....................€7,000 2003 Mini 1 1.6...........................................€5,500 SUBURU RANGE 2007 Suburu Impreza 1.5 Extras....................€6,500 2005 Suburu Legacy 2.0...............................€5,000 2004 Suburu Forrester 2.0 A/T 4WD.............€5,500 2000 Suburu Forrester 2.0 4WD....................€3,000

RENAULT RANGE 2006 Renault Megane 1.4 Sal........................€5,000 2005 Renault Laguna 1.9 Dsl.........................€4,500 2005 Renault Clio 1.2....................................€3,500 2004 Renault Scenic 1.6................................€3,000 NISSAN RANGE 2008 Nissan Primera 1.6 SVE........................€6,500 2007 Nissan Pathfinder 2.5TDI 7 Seater........€11,500 2007 Nissan Almera 1.5 Sal..........................€6,500 2006 Nissan Navara 2.5TDI 4 x 4 5 Seater.....€7,500 2006 Nissan Almera 1.5................................€5,500 2006 Nissan Note 1.5..................................€6,500 2005 Nissan Xtrail DSL..................................€6,000 LEXUS RANGE 2008 Lexus is220 DSL Extras........................€13,500 2007 Lexus is220 DSL Extras........................€11,500 FIAT RANGE 2006 Fiat Multiple 1.9 DSl 6 Seater................€5,000 2006 Fiat Punto 3DR......................................€3,500 2003 Fiat Punto 5DR......................................€1,800 MAZDA RANGE 2007 Mazda 6 2.0DSL Touring......................€7,500 2007 Mazda 6 1.8........................................€5,500 2004 Mazda 3 1.4 H/B.................................€3,500 2002 Mazda 323..........................................€1,800 HYUNDAI RANGE 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 A/T Leather.......€19,500 2005 Hyundai Tuscon 2.0 DSL Passenger........€6,000 2005 Hyundai Accent 1.3..............................€4,000 2004 Hyundai Trajet DSl 7 Seater...................€4,000 THIS WEEKS SPECIAL OFFERS 2008 VW Golf TDI 5DR DSl...........................€9,500 2008 Seat Ibiza 1.2 5Dr Extras......................€6,500 2007 VW Passat 2.0T....................................€5,000 2007 Audi A4 TDI........................................€11,500 2007 Ford Focus 1.4 LX.................................€6,500 2007 VW EOS 2.0 TDI 140BHP....................€14,500 2007 Nissan Almera 1.5................................€6,000 2007 Chevrolet 1.2 Petrol..............................€5,000 2007 Nissan Pathfinder 7 Seater Dsl...............€9,500 2007 Ford C Max Petrol................................€6,000 2007 Peugeot 307 1.4 5DR............................€5,500 2006 VW Golf 1.4 Plus..................................€6,500 2006 Nissan Almera 1.5................................€5,000 2005 Nissan Almera 1.5................................€4,500 2005 Citroen C5 Dsl......................................€4,500 2005 Peugeot 206........................................€5,000 2005 Renault Megane Dsl..............................€4,500 2005 Toyota Avensis 1.6................................€4,500 2005 Saab 9-5 2.2 Dsl...................................€5,000 2005 Toyota Corolla D4D..............................€4,500 2005 Ford Mondeo DSL................................€5,000 2005 Opel Vectra 1.6....................................€4,500 2005 Opel Vectra DSL...................................€6,000 2005 Peugeot 407 DSL.................................€4,500 2005 Renault Laguna 1.6..............................€3,000 2004 Ford Transit 350 Dsl Van.......................€4,000 2004 MG ZR 1.5 Petrol..................................€2,500 2004 VW Touareg 2.5 TDI Passenger 4x4 .....€8,500 2004 Toyota Avensis 1.6................................€3,000 2004 Nissan Almera 1.5................................€3,000 2004 Toyota Avensis D4D..............................€4,500 2004 Renault Megane Dsl..............................€4,500 2004 Opel Astra 1.4 5dr................................€2,500

SKODA RANGE 2007 Skoda Octavia 1.9TDI A/T.....................€7,500 2005 Skoda Octavia 1.9TDI...........................€5,000 2003 Skoda Octavia 1.4................................€2,500 CITROEN RANGE 2007 Citroen C8 7 Seater Dsl VSX 120BHP.....€9,500 2006 Citroen Picasso 1.4...............................€6,000 2003 Citroen Xsara 1.4.................................€2,500

AL HAYES MOTORS LTD.

GALWAY RD., PORTUMNA, CO. GALWAY Tel: 090 9741390, 090 9742200 Tuam: 093 26411

www.alhayesmotors.com

AL: 086-2449645 • DAMIEN: 087 2368841 • DEREK: 086 8119141 • ALAN: 087-4153872 • NIALL: 087-6385033

Hotels

Visit the stunning Leitrim countryside offer for an unforgettable break. A family re-union can be rounded off with a lavish evening meal It is an ideal wedding venue or conference centre. The central location of the hotel in Leitrim facilitates tours and visits to the surrounding unspoiled countryside. The location facilitates visits to the many nearby lakes that comprise the Leitrim countryside and shopping in nearby Sligo or Enniskillen A visit to Lough Allen hotel & Spa in Drumshanbo is a must and there are packages to suit any budget.

Drumshanbo • Co Leitrim www.loughallenhotel.com

Mid Season Mid Week Special

2 Nights B&B and 1 Dinner Just €99 pp 3 Nights B&B for just €99pp

To Book Call 071-9640100 or email reservations@loughallenhotel.com

I

T’S summertime and one of the best places to base a home holiday or a week-end break is, undoubtedly, the Lough Allen Hotel in County Leitrim. Situated on the shores of Lough Allen, only 14 km from the bustling town of Carrick on Shannon, it is only a short walk to the town of Drumshanbo.

The 4 star hotel has offerings to compare with the top hotels in Ireland and also has the stunning Leitrim countryside. Spa treatments, leisure centre and a sumptuous candlelight dinner are all part of what’s on

Maldron Hotel Portlaoise - so different, so near

T

he Maldron Hotel Portlaoise is regarded as one of the best Laois Hotels. Value is what business and leisure travelers’ alike look for and value is what ? the Maldron Hotel in Portlaoise delivers. Comfortable and luxurious rooms, efficient friendly service and a superior product at an affordable price.

The Maldron Hotel and leisure centre Portlaoise offers ? all of this and a little bit more. Regarded as one of the finest family friendly hotels, you and your family can enjoy a great value break together at this Portlaoise hotel. Maldron Hotel Portlaoise offers a number of family rooms and interconnecting rooms that are very comfortable and spacious. The Maldron hotel Portlaoise is perfectly positioned for sightseeing breaks in Laois and for families to avail of the many local attractions for kids.

For business meetings in Laois, The Maldron Hotel excels with a dedicated conference floor offering 8 state of the art Conference suites and 4 syndicate Meeting rooms. All our rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi / Broadband, natural daylight and Air Conditioning. We also offer you complementary secure car parking making us one of the finest hotels in Portlaoise.

Our superb Club Vitae Leisure Centre offers you the chance to relax and unwind after a long day. As a guest

of ours, you will have complimentary use of the leisure centre including: 20m swimming pool, children’s pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, aerobics Studio and gym.

Stir Bar and Restaurant offers food to suit all array of tastes using only fresh ingredients. Our menus are created with you in mind and offer healthy options and vegetarian dishes making us one of the most popular restaurants in Portlaoise.

Body and Soul Treatment rooms is a luxury quaint spa setting providing an extensive range of complementary and beauty treatments tailored to suit the needs of each individual. Our therapists are highly qualified & exceptional in their field and provide an extremely high standard of treatment at affordable and competitive prices. For more info or to book check out our website www.bodyandsoultherapyrooms.com The central location of the Maldron Hotel in Laois I is ideal for exploring the beautiful sights & surrounds of the Midlands of Ireland from the picturesque Slieve Bloom Mountains www.slievebloom.ie to the monastic round towers at Timahoe and the Garden Trail of Laois there is something for both young and old alike. For corporate guests the location of this hotel in Laois is convenient when traveling to Dublin, Limerick Cork or any location in Ireland.

Family Fun *

* 2 adults & 2 children

1 night B&B inc a Fun Activity from €99

Relaxing Family* 2 Night Break 2 nights B&B & 1 Evening Meal from only €215

Excellent range of packages available for families, Midweek and Weekend breaks, groups & Events.

Tel: 057 8695900 www.maldronhotelportlaoise.com info.portlaoise@maldronhotels.com

The Heart of the Great Western Greenway

N

Newpor$, Co. Mayo • Tel: 098 41155

Mid Season Mid week-Special

ewport is known as “The Heart of the Great Western Greenway” and sits on the banks of the Black Oak River, where tranquil, undiscovered mountain trails and walkways as well as the famous Burrishoole loop walks can be found.

Your hotel has every comfort, beautiful rooms classically decorated and furnished to a high standard, with elegant antique furniture happily co-existing with contemporary comforts and facilities, satellite TV and

(Sunday-Thursday)

2BB1D.........€100.00 per person sharing 3BB2D.........€150.00 per person sharing Enjoy a 2 or 3 night stay with breakfast and a 3 course evening meal included.

(Only available until the end of June) Please quote ‘mat"re living’ when availing of this offer.

www.hotelnewportmayo.com Page 40 Mature Living July 2012

telephone. There is a bar and restaurant with home cooking and we offer a packed lunch service should you require this on one of your trips out.

Please visit our website where you can see a range of packages and activities, from art classes to horse riding to fishing. www.hotelnewportmayo.com.

Hotels

Why choose a Hotel when you can have the Luxury of a Resort

P

4 nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast and 5th night B&B FREE - €199 pp

*Dinner each evening *Full complimentary daily and nightly entertainment program *Transfers local Bus & Train Station *Complimentary tea & coffee daily *Full use of the leisure centre facilities In-House Activities: •Discount Spa Treatments •Complimentary use of Leisure Club – Pool & Gym •Complimentary Classes •Active 55’s Workout •Table Tennis •Bowling •Wine Tasting •Herbal Tea Tasting •Grow your own Garden •Classical Movies •Guilded Walking Tour •Flower Arranging Scenic Tours available on request

For Arrival - 2012 Dates • Sun 13th May • Sun 10th June • Sun 16th September • Sun 14th October • Sun 18th November • Sun 2nd Decemeber To Book: Call us now on 094 90 22033 or email to reservations@breaffyhouseresort.ie Bookings on line www.breaffyhouseresort.com

lanning a relaxing break away, the ideal location is Breaffy House Resort which is located in the heart of Co. Mayo. Set on 90 acres of gardens and rolling woodland. The House dates back to 1890, retaining some of its original Country House atmosphere whilst offering all of the luxury of a modern day hotel. The Resort is renowned for its warm welcoming staff with an excellent range of facilities. The Resort includes Spa, Leisure Centre with 20 metre pool, Sauna and Jacuzzi. The Resort offers deluxe rooms which include a range of suites, superior, standard rooms with all the facilities that your guests would require – direct dial telephone, multichannel colour T.V., radio, hairdryer, trouser press and tea/coffee making facilities.

This year we have put together an amazing offer of 4 nights Dinner B&B and 5th night B&B FREE when you book our Golden Breaks package. This offer includes 3 course dinner each night in the Mulberry Restaurant and breakfast each morning, along with 5th Night Bed & Breakfast free. Transfers can be

Go West this spring for a truly relaxing over 50s holiday ?

H

otel Westport is secluded in 7 acres of beautiful woodland in the heart of Westport. You’ll discover a uniquely friendly, comfortable and stylish hotel, abounding in warmth and relaxation.

Hotel Westport offers a variety of holidays and are renowned for their theme breaks – Golden Years (where you get an extra night’s dinner, bed and breakfast free!), Golf, Walking, Bridge and Indoor Bowling.

As part of their Golden Holiday Programme they take care of your every need! The holiday includes a full Irish Breakfast each morning (served until a leisurely 11am!), and a four course Table d’Hote dinner each evening.

They organise day tours too - Knock Shrine, Kylemore & Ballintubber Abbeys, Foxford Woollen Mills, Achill Island and The Céidé Fields (at your own expense), or for those of you wanting something a little more relaxing, book a treatment in their luxurious Ocean Spirit Spa. Choose from an array of treatments – specialised massages, soothing facials, exotic hand and foot spa treatments, luxurious body peels and wraps. They organize games and entertainment in the evenings too. You won’t want to go home!

The Hotel has 129 bedrooms with all the comforts of home. The elegant ‘Islands Restaurant’ overlooks the Carrowbeg River, while the ‘Maple Bar’ provides the perfect ambience for music and chat over drinks amongst friends. Avail of the extensive leisure facilities on hand, relax with a good book in the patio gardens or take a stroll along the Carrowbeg River into town where there is an excellent mix of shops, cafes and restaurants.

Hotel Westport is located in the perfect place to take in one or more of the many outdoor activities in the local area: Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s Holy Mountain, Clew Bay, with 365 islands, blue flag beaches, horse riding, golf, surfing, fishing, walking and shopping - just to mention a few and the nearest Hotel to the newly opened Great Western Greenway - 42km of uninterrupted walking and cycling taking in breathtaking scenery on the way, from Westport through Newport and Mulranny and into Achill Island!

A warm, friendly welcome awaits you at Hotel Westport, “One of Ireland’s best loved Hotels”. Sale Special – 18th or 25th March 5 Nights DBB Only €229 per person sharing. Call NOW for further details

arranged from local bus and train stations based on minimum numbers. Complimentary on site parking should you wish to drive. We have chosen a selection of arrival dates each month which means we can provide in-house activities such as wine tasting, table tennis, bowling, grow your own garden and pottery painting. This is the ideal location to explore Mayo.

The Hotel is just 20 mins away from the scenic town of Westport. All guests have complimentary use of the swimming pool, sauna, seam room, Jacuzzi, and gym. You may also take part in one of our many classes, which include Aqua Aerobics, Over 55’s workout and the increasing popular Zumba. If you fancy some pampering, enjoy some time out in Breaffy Spa. Which offers a range of facial, body and massage treatments to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at leisure between 7:30am –10:30am each morning and Dinner each between 6:30pm – 8:45pm. The Mulberry Bar serves food for 12-9pm each day for snacks, light bites and main courses.

OVER 50S / GOLDEN HOLIDAY Summer Offers 5 Nights Dinner, B&B July €399pps • August €419pps Start your holiday ANY night No Programme

A pictorial record of the West of Free Trip to Kylemore Abbey Ireland over Golden Years Breaks 15 years

B

ook a 3 night midweek stay in the Harbour Hotel, Galway City this April and receive a free trip to Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Garden. Experience the best of both worlds, with luxury accommodation in the heart of Galway City, just 3 minutes walk from Eyre Square – where you can explore the medieval streets and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Galway City. Then escape to an oasis of calm and serenity to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Garden.

Kylemore Abbey is the perfect day out, located in the heart of Connemara. The lakeside abbey is set against a backdrop of lush green slopes and is surrounded by the sloping mountains of the Twelve Bens. Originally a castle, Kylemore is steeped in history and tales of romance, tragedy and success. Home to Ireland’s only community of Benedictine nuns since 1920, this 1,000 acre estate has much to offer visitors Experience the Victorian atmosphere of the restored rooms of the Abbey, miniature Gothic church and Head Gardener’s House.

There are numerous nature trails, woodland and

with

lakeshore walks. For the more adventurous, guided mountain hikes are available. The Harbour Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Galway City, perfect for a getaway break. A warm welcome awaits you in the West, with complimentary tea and freshly baked scones on arrival for all Golden Year Packages.

Each room is designed with the comfort of the guest in mind, with pillow topped mattresses and fluffy duvets with crisp, white linen. For a special treat, upgrade to one of the Superior Rooms with a little extra space and comfort, additional amenities include a stereo system, bath robes and complimentary bottled water. There are a number of Harbour View rooms which also include bathrobes and complimentary bottled water.

Three Nights Bed & Breakfast with Dinner on Two evenings, plus a complimentary trip to Kylemore Abbey from €169pps, available Sunday to Thursday.

Book direct on 091 894800 or visit www.harbour.ie.

Page 41 Mature Living July 2012

ROLLOVER! ROLLOVER!

We had no Winner in Last Months Spot The Ball Competition and so the prize has been doubled to €100!

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WIN €100!! WIN €100!!

HOW TO PLAY

The ball has been remove You have to decide where d from the picture. it was, and place a ‘X’ on the picture.

The X Should mark where you think the centre of the ball is and can only be marked in one box per entry.

If more than one correct will be picked at random answer is received then the winning entry from the winning entries.

Winner will be notified by pos t. Terms and conditions apply Send entries to ‘Spot the Ball’ Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo

Page 42 Mature Living May 2012

ENTRY FORM

Name____________________ ______________ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ _ Telephone_______________

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Ad dre ss_ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ _____________________________ ____________ ___________________________ ____________ ___________________________ ____________ ________________________ _______________ Email Address______________ _____________

Services Directory

Easy Baths, Showers, Stair Lifts & Leisure All Disability Equipment Supplied & Installed - Covering Both North and South Baths • Walk in baths with door.

• Hydrotherapy, Hydraulic Riser-Lower baths.

• Bather sitting in an upright or lie down position depending upon selection of bath type.

Showers • Showers easy access, trays and enclosures, half-height, full-height doors.

• Shower stools, chairs, fold down seats, doors, curtain rails etc.

• Level access and easy access shower tray included • Slip resistant surfaces on shower base.

• Suitable for shower-chair or ambulant user.

Stair Lifts • Straight or curved, made to measure • Floor to ceiling/platform lifts • Swimming pool lifts

EAST BROTHERS GARDEN MACHINERY Doon Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071-9662710, www.eastmachinery.ie P U SH S R MOWE TRACTOR LAWN MOWERS

Chainsaws, Tillers, Outboard Motors, Power Washers, Generators, Electric Fences, Farm Machinery Spares

STRIMMERS

For more information please contact: JOHN HINDS R.O.I.: T: 048 42771652 M: 00 44 7802 298910 N.I. 028 4277 1652 M: 07802 298910

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ORTH WEST EST NORTH PROTECTION ROTECTION DOGS OGS

Pups and Trained Dogs For Sale Have peace of mind in your home - invest in a fully trained fully trained family protection dog • IKC Registered • Microchip • Vet Checked • Flea'd, Wormed & Vaccinated • 7 Generation Certificate • 6 Weeks free insurance • Parents can be seen

Due to the massive uptake on the last issue of Mature Living Magazine, not everyone could be guaranteed a free copy in their local outlet. However we now offer a subscription service for just €35 per year.

M

ature Living is full to the brim with information on events, finance, travel, pets, food and drink, health, hobbies and much much more! For just €35 (to cover postage and admin costs) you can have Mature Living delivered to your door. Mature Living is published once per month and a subscription covers 12 months.

Complete the form below. You can pay by cheque or Postal Order made payable to IBS Publications

I Would llike to subscribe to Mature Living Magazine for 12 issues.

Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 085-7843837

www.tramoreholidayhomes.com

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Address........................................................................................... .....................................................................................................

Alternatively, you can pay via telephone using your credit or debit card. Simply call us on 071-9154538 with your details.

Cut out this form and send it to us at: Subscriptions, Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo.

2 & 3 bedroom Holiday homes Close to the beach Call 051390950 Tramore, Co. Waterford

Services Directory

For all your Home & Garden needs Now open

Free tea or coffee with this ad

MAKERS, SUPPLIERS & FITTERS MACE MIDDLE, CLAREMORRIS. www.mcganns.com

Collooney, Sligo • T: 071-913 0956 • M: 086-086 3991

www.grantwater.ie • info@grantwater.ie

Grant Water has a hot tub to suit any need and any budget.

A full listing of products and rates are available on request

• Angles • Beading • Centre Pieces • Corbels • Corner Pieces • Cornices • Dado Rails • Niches • Plaques

TELEPHONE: 094-9388208 MOBILE: 087-2503184

From the smaller to the larger, there is a Spa just your size with the legendary therapy and quality we are known for Call today and get a special discount in Conjunction with “Mature Living Magazine”

Go on treat yourself, you deserve it!

Keith - 085-1053588 / 071-9310787 Trading As Pentico Contracting Ltd. Marella, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo. Office: (096) 37926 Fax: (096) 37957 Farnan: (086) 0830664 Liam: (087) 256 9959 E-mail: pentico@ireland.com

4 Holistic Living The Square Claremorris

FREE (BER)

with every house insulated this month (with this advert)

Podiatry Treatment By Deborah Sheridan Bsc Pod Med MChSI

087 9807322 Call for quotations on Steel Structure Sheds, Tanks, Houses (new build and refit), Plant Hire etc.

All Jobs, Small Jobs, Big Jobs!!

Also in attendance at Byrne`s Pharmacy, Kiltimagh on Thursdays

Deepwater Quay, Finisklin, Sligo Harbour, Sligo 071-9153360 • 071-9153362 Email: info@erin-recyclers.com

Healthier, Quieter, More Energy Efficient

• Water Analysis • Water Filtration • Water Softening • Well Drilling • Pump Supplied and Fitted • Rain Water Collection & Purification • Sewage Treatment Systems IN THE BUSINESS FOR OVER 25 YEARS

Email: waterteck@eircom.net Website: www.waterteck.com Phone: 086-8072249 071-9658976

TRALAS INSULATIONS Spray Foam Insulation

Ph: 048-66326728 Mob: 086-0858030

www.icynene.ie

We’ll change the way you think about insulation and your building - GRANTS AVAILABLE

Tidy up around your home & garden WE BUY...

• Pvc copper, cylinders, copper piping & lead • Alumimium wheels, alumimium sheeting • Old stainless steel milk tanks • Rebar from building sites.

We also do site clearances (Metal Only)

WE WEIGH AND PAY . . . AND YOU’RE ON YOUR WAY!!

www.scrapmetalireland.com

Services Directory

ATLANTIC AUTOMATIONS

North West Counselling

Ballyneggin, Castlebar, Co. Mayo • Tel: 087-4187122 - Mob: 087-7587186 Manufacturers of quality Ornamental Gates, Railings and Stairs Specialists in Access Control Systems and Automatic Gate Systems

Counselling for people with addictions eg. Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling

• Relapse Programme • One-to-one Counselling • Referral system for private clients to White Oaks Rehabilitation Centre • Addiction and General counselling available Afternoon, evening and weekend appointments available

Counsellors are professionally trained and are fully accredited or working towards accreditation.

For appointments ring: 087-2879707, or 074-9723822 Email: taborhouse2004@eircom.net Tabor House, Drimark, Donegal Town

- Remote Control access systems - Keypad access control systems - Barrier access control systems

Helping people to recover

Visit our new SHOWROOM at Roadstone Retail park, Castlebar

Irish Shamrock Trees Whitethorn & Beech Hedging Trees and more Suitable for: • People with limited mobility Spray Foam Insulation

• People who have had hip surgery • People with back aches

For details of your local stockist

Phone: 087-9896948

• Aeos & REPS Specialists • All trees and tree plants • Refridgerated trees • Trees from €2.00 • All year round planting • Best Value Trees in Ireland.

We pride ourselves on our truly friendly and efficient service.

Tel: 087-2743914 24 HR www.irishshamrocktrees.com SUICIDE TEACH

ORGANISE PREVENT

S.T.O.P. is a registered charity which was set up to assist and support individuals who feel suicidal, are in distress or those who have been bereaved by suicide.

Currently S.T.O.P. provide the following services • Provides bereavement support through a suicide bereavement group which meets monthly.

• Support and outreach to those bereaved by suicide.

• Promotes positive mental health and related issues by attending information evenings and also visiting (when requested) schools, communities and organisations throughout Ireland.

• Counselling for those who are feeling suicidal / depressed or have been bereaved by suicide.

If you feel that you could benefit from any of the above support please call Mary on 087-4188053.

Feature Article Services Directory

JB DENTURE CLINIC Garden/Tone St, Ballina.

Boradruma, Snugboro, Castlebar

Mon-Thu 9.30 - 6pm / Fri 9.30 - 5pm • Homes • Hospitals • Nursing Homes Appointments by arrangement

Tel: 096-72189 or 087-6389500

We repair Kitchen seats, 3pce suites, fireside chairs, bar seating, sails, motorbike seats, headboards, office chairs etc. We retail foam rubber, vinyls, velours, webbing, buttons, springs, etc. Member of the National Guild of Craftsmen.

Open Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm Tel: 094 9023532 or 086 8350608

JAMES MCGRATH WESTPORT GAS REGISTERED GAS INSTALLER • REGISTERED OIL TECHNICIAN • CALOR GAS INSTALLER

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

• Solar Panels supplied and installed • Supplier and Installer of Gas /Oil Boilers • Domestic and Industrial Service • Gas and Oil Burner Upgrades • Heating Control Upgrades • Supplier of Valiant, Glowworm and Wolf Gas Boilers and Coster Gas Detection Systems

SERVICE AGENTS FOR Aga / Rangemaster / Electrolux / Zanussi / Parkinson Cowen Speed Queen and Maytag Laundry Equipment.

TEL (098) 35266 also (086)8169023 westportgas@eircom.net Servicing Mayo and North Galway

Bar, Hotels Private Houses All Upholstery undertaken Huge Selection of fabrics Contact: 086-8361070 or 071-9622700

Barcastle Retail Park, Castlebar. T: 094-9026100

www.symphonykitchens.ie

THOMAS KEANE KITCHENS

Axis Business Park, Clara Road, Tullamore, Co. Offaly Main St, Coolaney, Co. Sligo Tel: 071-9167005

• Face Frame and in-Framed kitchens · Fitted Furniture MBedroom AIN STREET , BALLA • Kitchen available Tel: DVD 094-9366622

Steel Garden Sheds, Garages & Tegkon Custom Steel Buildings

ballastoves@yahoo.com Page 46 Mature Living April 2012 www.tommykeanekitchens.homestead.com

Tel. 05793 – 51277

• Galvanised Steel Frame • PVC Coated Cladding - no painting • Variety of Colours • All Sheds come with a non-drip roof • We can supply a wooden or concrete floor.

• All sheds erected within 1-3 hours • All sheds come with at least one clear light on the roof.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS: • 3’x4’ window • Gutters and downpipes • Roller Door • Tile effect roofing

TEL: 086-240 7844 www.candssheds.ie info@candssheds.ie

Services Directory

Aluminium & PVC Repairs

CADDEN

To windows, doors and patio doors

Expert patio door repairs!

ENNISKILLEN

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

“ We cover Southern Counties at Northern Prices”

• Rollers • Tracks • Hinges • Door Realignment • Locks • Multilocking systems etc

www.caddenfunerals.com 24 hour caring funeral services • Covering all areas at competitive rates Funeral cars/Wreaths arranged EAMON OR MARY CADDEN 048-2866329938 MOBILE 00447718573502/00447752109265 “ a family concern, with a concern for the family”

Over 20 years experience servicing Irish windows and doors. Fully insured GLASS PARTS ETC REPLACED Brendan Gormley: 071-9183860 / 087-2562669

Garden Street | Ballina | Co Mayo

Your Eyes Are Precious.....

Let us look after them.

Complete Eye Exams including • Glaucoma Screening • AMD • Cataract Screening • Spectacles and Contact Lenses

The Biggest & Best Value Fireplace Showrooms in Ireland

Save €€€s by calling to us

For a full discussion and advice on all aspects of your eye health, call us and book your appointment today.

• Fireplaces • Stoves • Gas • Oil • Solid Fuel • Electric • Granite Worktop Specialists

Mon – Sat 9.30am -5.30pm

Sligo Road, Enniskillen.

Phone: 048 66 326 327

Corn & Callous Removal Nail Problems Diabetic Foot Care Verruca Treatment Insoles Home Visits

PRSI and Medical Card applications welcome

www.footworks.ie | 096 60100 | info@footworks.ie

WIDOW MID 60'S Retired professional. Kind, sincere, likes C/W. Music, dancing and articulate, honest, well dressed, S.D. W.L. T.M. Nice gentleman, similar interest's. Roscommon, Longford, Sligo, own home,car, etc.

Replies to box number 946, at the usual address.

lope to Box number 902 at the usual address

WIDOWER (60) seeking widow single or seperated lady from Roscommon to share some good times with. I am sincere, outgoing, tt/ns, caring and affectionate, like to keep fit, country walks, outings etc Replies, along with a blank Stamped Enve-

LONELY MALE SEEKS LONELY FEMALE for friendship and maybe more.

Age from 55. I am an easy going non smoker, occassional drinker.

Interested in fine dining.

Replies, along with a blank Stamped Envelope to Box number 900 at the usual address.

MALE 70’S 5’5”‘ divorced, looking to meet a male for friendship Replies with a blank stamped envelope to Box number 812 at the usual address.

FREE DATING* CLASSIFIED

DIVORCED LADY Early sixties, with a very bubby personality, trendy dresser, loves dancing. Has own house and car.

Like to meet honest gentleman with view to relationship. Replies, along with a blank Stamped Envelope to Box number 816 at the usual address

ROSCOMMON LADY Affectionate, easy to get on with, outgoing and likes dancing, would like to meet non smoker gent aged 60-65. Replies, along with a blank Stamped Envelope to Box number 814 at the usual address

I AM LOOKING FOR LOVE I love travelling, dancing, dining out. I am fun loving and easy going, I liek music. Would like to meet a nice lady 2-3 times a week for coffee and chats. Replies, along with a blank Stamped Envelope to Box number 820 at the usual address

To Reply to Any Box number, simply place your letter in a Blank, Stamped Envelope and then send this into us at: Dating Section, Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co.Sligo.

WRITE YOUR ADVERT HERE:

NO. OF ISSUES TO APPEAR IN (MAX 2) : SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS: THE FOLLOWING DETAILS ARE FOR OFFICE USE ONLY AND WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. These details MUST be completed for all adverts NAME:

(MAX 30 WORDS) - *Phone numbers will not be included in these adverts.

ADDRESS: Post the completed form to Mature Living Magazine, Cleveragh Road, Sligo

TELEPHONE NUMBER: EMAIL:

STRICTLY PRIVATE ADVERTISERS ONLY - BUSINESSES CAN CALL 071-9154538 AND SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY SALES REPRESENTATIVES ABOUT OUR EXCELLENT RATES. Please tick if you do not wish to avail of offers and information we may offer from time to time

Page 47 Mature Living July 2012