MediaCity Magazine Feb|Mar 2015

a

publication FEB/MARCH 2015 • ISSUE 09

SPOTLIGHT… LAUREN SIMON The Real Housewives of Cheshire

PEOPLE | FASHION | SHOPPING | BEAUTY | FOOD | TRAVEL | HEALTH | INTERIORS

““AA M MAGICAL, AGICAL, MESMERISING MES E MERISING N MU MUSICAL!” SICAL!” vening News +++++ ++++ ++ Manchester EEvening

FLYING IN TO SALFORD PIER 8, SALFORD QUAYS, M50 3AZ

WED 3 JUNE - SAT 25 JULY 0843 208 6010 thelowry.com/wicked

Discover more at WickedTheMusical.co.uk ©WUKTPL

Established 2002

Didsbury House Hotel

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Emma Nawaz Blackstone Solicitors

Peckforton Castle

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Editor’s letter

Welcome to our first issue of 2015.

It’s cold and grey outside, but I hope this month’s magazine will brighten your week. There’s plenty to read: from The Real Housewives of Cheshire star Lauren Simon, to a unique stay on the Thames on London’s first floating hotel, The Sunborn.

Christmas seems such a long while ago now, but The Salutions Christmas Ball at the Midland was another huge success, with hosts Chelsea Norris and John Thompson playing a big part in helping us raise over £7,000 for The Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital’s Many Hands Appeal. The photos and video are available to view on our new cutting-edge website, which the team have been hard at work on for the past few months.

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The Real Housewives of Cheshire

To celebrate our new website (www.salutions.co.uk), we have teamed up with G Casino to offer 20 lucky readers the chance to win

a two-course meal and a pair of cinema tickets to see a film of their choice at Cineworld Didsbury.

See page 68 for more info. macleodbradley East is celebrating its first birthday in March and is offering a complimentary cut and finish for a limited number of readers. See page 58 for more info.

I’d like to officially welcome Michelle Atack and Nigel Reed to our team, who bring with them a wealth of experience. Also new to the team are Charlotte Batra and Cathy Saunders.

You can enjoy Charlotte’s diary and Cathy’s Lady Muck on pages 15 and 53.

Please contact us if you want to advertise or you’re interested in getting involved in our business networking club, reader events or launches; and don’t forget to sign up to our e-letter on the website.

Beverley e: beverley@salutions.co.uk

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Established 2002 01 EDITOR’S LETTER News from the editor

05 / 06 / 07 / 09 / 10 NEWS What’s happening in the area

EVERY ISSUE…

72 / 73 DINING GUIDE Iberica The Botanist Evuna Southern 11 Neighbourhood Fazenda

15 CHARLOTTE’S DIARY

74 / 75 / 77 / 81 EDUCATION NEWS

Latest technology and old people!

22 TRAVEL

94

Retreat to Yorkshire

News and achievements from the schools

86 THE BUSINESS

53 LADY MUCK

With Vikas Shah

Home-grown cocktails

89 EVER FALLEN IN LOVE…

54 INTERIORS

Sexy Beast

All you need is love

90 REVIEWS

57 WIN NATURALLY

Music, books and films

with Julie Neville

92 WHAT’S ON

69 TABLE FOR TWO

Check out the theatres and concert Halls for Mother’s day

with Phil Wood 90

71 FOOD REVIEW

94 GADGETS

Gusto Manchester

A plethora of audio-visual treats 32

96 MOTORS ASPIRE Design and Honda’s Serious supercar 72 72

31

92

2

Established 2002

& THE

96

REST…

16 MOTHER’S DAY

20 SPOTLIGHT…

How to choose your wedding dress Wedding party fashion Smarten up with the finer details Finishing touches The Sunborn, London’s first floating hotel 42 Getting Wedding Fit 43 Bouquets & buttonholes

Lauren Simon Real Housewives of Cheshire star

52 CATHY SAUNDERS

Gift guide

17 / 18 / 19 CHRISTMAS BALL Images

24 WEDDING FEATURE 26 Wedding planner

29 30 32 35 40

Win cinema tickets and meals at G Casino

70 THE PLATINUM EXPERIENCE BOX at The Etihad Stadium

85 ROBOT DUCK DESIGN Delivering the dream

From marketing to muck

91 HANNAH BYRNES

55 MARTIN COCKX

Employment lawyer and author

The Hale Plan

15

11

68 COMPETITION

20

55

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CONTRIBUTORS GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Beverley Uddin-Khandakar

ART DIRECTION & DESIGN www.twistedgifted.com

HEAD Of DIGITAL Philip Valentino

GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR Salim Uddin-Khandakar

EDITORIAL SUPPORT Steve Jones

ONLINE CONTENT Paul Adams

SALES Michelle Atack, Nigel Reed

CONTRIBUTORS Anne Britt, Catherine Reed, Fay Wertheimer, John Waddington, Oliver Chesher, Mark Kureishy, Dr Jill Nash, Julie Neville, Helen Lawson, Charlotte Batra

PHOTOGRAPHY PR Shots, Bigstockphoto.com, Press Loft, Likeawhale.com, and Jo Kaberry

OffICE MANAGER Jo Price E: jo@salutions.co.uk Tel: 0161 445 2883

DISTRIBUTION Avanti

This Magazine is published six times a year by Salutions Limited.

The contents may not be reprinted or reproduced without prior written permission. The publishers are not liable for statements made and opinions expressed. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and the publisher can take no responsibility for omissions and errors.

The Old Bank, 99 Palatine Road, Didsbury, Manchester M20 3JQ. Tel: 0161 445 2883 | E: info@salutions.co.uk visit us online www.salutions.co.uk 3

STARRING GARY WILMOT & BELINDA LANG

TUE 17 - SAT 21 MARCH thelowry.com | 0843 208 6010

Professor Karen Kirkby

The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, an international leader in cancer treatment and research, has jointly appointed Professor Karen Kirkby as Chair in Proton Therapy Physics for its planned Proton Beam Therapy Centre in Manchester, as part of the Manchester Cancer Research Centre senior academic recruitment campaign.

Employed by The Christie and The University of Manchester, Karen will be responsible for developing a programme of international leading proton research and

LOCAL NEWS PROTON BEAM THERAPY CENTRE innovation to deliver direct patient benefits.

This includes basic research, pre-clinical and translational research, and clinical trials, and offers patients increased choices and expansion of treatment available. It also seeks to increase grant and commercial funding for clinical research, as well as developing local and international proton research collaborations.

Karen, who leaves her role as Associate Dean for Research and Enterprise and Director of Science at the Ion Beam Centre at the University of Surrey to join The Christie, has over 30 years’ experience in ion beam

(such as protons) research and an interest in proton therapy that dates back to 2004, when she led an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council network on the biomedical applications of ion beams.

The Christie is one of only two sites in the UK to be chosen to host a PBT centre, the other is University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

To be based at its Withington site in Manchester, the £125million five-storey building, which is to be located on Oak Road, is due to open in 2018 and will treat up to 750 patients per year at full capacity.

ST ANN’S HOSPICE LUNCH RAISES £13,000 Leading figures from the world of sport and business gathered at the Mere Golf Resort and Spa for a special lunch in aid of St Ann’s Hospice. The event was organised by Pat Loftus, Vice-Chairman of Deloitte, and raised £13,000 for the charity where his mother Hilda was a volunteer for many years.

Pat is also chairman of Manchester City’s community foundation, and guests included the club’s former manager Brian Horton, ex-Blues player Mike Summerbee, former United ace Kevin Moran, and Richard Bevan, Chief Executive of the League Managers’ Association.

Guests of honour was Linzi Prescott, wife of the former St Helens Rugby League player Steve, who died just over a year ago after a seven-year battle with a rare form of stomach cancer. Linzi and former Saints star Paul Sculthorpe told an audience of more than 230 how Steve undertook a series of gruelling sporting challenges during his illness.

Pat Loftus, Jayne Bessant (Chief Executive St Ann’s Hospice), Eamonn O’Neal (Chair, Trustees at St Ann’s), Linzi Prescott, Paul Sculthorpe

The Steve Prescott Foundation, which has raised around £700,000 for charities including The Christie, also received a donation from the lunch.

The Mere table - David Lloyd (Captain Mere 2014), Mark Boler (CEO Mere), Chris Clempner, Gary Corbett (Chairman Mere), Jon Gallagher, Harry Lloyd (President Mere 2014) and John Dowd

CALL FOR ARTISTS Artists and performers are invited to take part in an exciting new challenge at Didsbury Arts Festival 2015.

This year’s festival (20–28 June) introduces the theme of In-between Places to celebrate Didsbury’s unique position as both vibrant suburb and green retreat – an ‘in-between’ place where city and country meet.

Director Daniel Williamson explained: “We are encouraging artists and audience to explore urban landscape and the sense of place in general, or specifically in relation to Didsbury. We are interested in what it takes to escape from what HG Wells described as ‘the whirlpool cities’ and explore hidden suburban gems.”

Daniel Williamson replaces former DAF Director Maria Stripling, who remains involved as Chair of the new DAF Board.

The artist submissions process is now open, with information and application forms available on the DAF website. The deadline for all artist submissions is 16 February 2015. Visit the new-look website at: www.didsburyartsfestival.org 5

LocaL News

GUSTO MANCHESTER LAUNCH PARTY Leading lights from Manchester’s acting, music, media and business world flocked to the stunning new Gusto restaurant in Manchester city centre to celebrate in style when it was launched with a suitably lavish party.

Occupying the ground floor of the elegant Grade II listed Elliot House on the corner of Lloyd Street and Deansgate, the former Olive Restaurant has undergone a magnificent extension and transformation.

It reflects the European grand cafes of the early 20th century, which often had grand spaces containing large artworks and paintings depicting a place in time.

So to illustrate this (quite literally) the renowned Manchester artist Michael J Browne was commissioned to develop a giant renaissance or ‘old masters’ style painting, but with Manchester as the subject.

He was working on his masterpiece throughout the party, fascinating onlookers curious about references to the city's history, landscape, architecture and heritage, as well as its people, luminaries of literature and invention, and more recent characters from popular culture and the arts.

There was bold and brassy live music from Manchester sensations Twisted Tubes, and many famous faces in the crowd.

HAWKSMOOR MANCHESTER TO BE LAUNCHED IN MARCH Hawksmoor Manchester restaurant will be opening its doors on 5 March, following a two-week soft launch period in which customers can enjoy 50% off food. Over the past few years Hawksmoor has developed a reputation as one of the UK’s best restaurants with its simple mix of dictionary-thick steaks cooked over charcoal, a wine list drawn from interesting small vineyards, as well as big-name winemakers and awardwinning cocktails all served by lovely people who genuinely care about what they do. Hawksmoor sources all its meat from The Ginger Pig in Yorkshire, where Tim Wilson ethically rears traditionally bred British cattle.

His grass-fed beef is widely acknowledged to be the best in the country.

Based in the Victorian Courthouse building on 184-186 Deansgate, Hawksmoor Manchester is owners Will Beckett and Huw Gott’s first restaurant outside London. Will said: “It feels great. After years of trying to open a restaurant in Manchester and months of building work, tastings and anticipation to be finally on the verge of launching the restaurant. We really hope Manchester likes what we’ve created - really high standards of food, drink and service, but in a relaxed environment with none of the stuffiness that sometimes comes with fine dining.

The Great Kathmandu Tandoori Restaurant

Award winning Nepalese & Indian Cuisine Winners of the Hardens Observer Readers Choice for Indian Cuisine in the UK

140-144 Burton Road, West Didsbury M20 1JQ Open 7 days a week. Lunch 12 noon - 2.30pm & 6.00pm - Midnight

www.greatkathmandu.com | T: 0161 445 2145 or 0161 434 6413 Free 660ml beer with T/A orders over £30 Join us for Mother’s Day lunch - see our set menu. Function room available for hire.

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Mother’s Day

Booking s NOW

being tak en.

LocaL News

PEPPERMINT SODA CELEBRATES AFTER TAKING THE GOLD Hale-based marketing communications agency Peppermint Soda rounded off a successful year when it bagged eight awards for its work. The agency was recognised at the Fresh PR Awards and the Chartered Institute of Public Relations North West Pride Awards, where it won five gold, two silver and one bronze award.

The awards paid homage to the agency’s work across a number of its public relations accounts, explained managing director, Jean-Philippe Glaskie: “The runaway winner at both ceremonies was a campaign we ran for fastfashion brand, SheLikes.com, which saw us create the Minimum Wage Dress – a stylish dress available for the

cost of an hour’s minimum wage. “At both award ceremonies, the campaign won gold for use of media relations and for best consumer campaign, a real coup for us as an agency.

This is an area where we’ve traditionally performed very well and we’re delighted to have been recognised for our expertise once more.”

Peppermint’s public sector work was also recognised, with two adoption campaigns it ran throughout 2014 taking home two gold and one silver award.

“The public sector arena is a growing one for Peppermint, so we are really delighted to have our work recognised publically,” added Jean-Philippe.

KITSON ARCHITECTURE WINS PRESTIGIOUS RETAIL AWARD Based in Altrincham, Cheshire, Kitson Architecture has been recognised at the British Council of Shopping Centres BCSC Gold Awards held in London. Kitson Architecture won the Refurbishment and/or extension (under £5million) category for its contribution to the redevelopment and refurbishment of Aycliffe Town Centre in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham.

When commenting on the Kitson Architecture scheme for Newton Aycliffe the judges highlighted the success of the project across all facets of the design and implementation, stating: “This transformation has been a commercial success with short-term temporary income and voids being replaced with long-term tenancies, significantly enhancing net income.

However, the jury was particularly struck by the partnership approach and the dramatic impact the refurbishment has had on the local community with the creation of a town centre of which they could be proud.”

The Hale Kitchen and Bar 149 Ashley Road, Hale, Cheshire WA14 2UW Tel: 0161 926 4670 | E: sasha@thehalekitchen.co.uk

SET MENU 2 courses

HALF PRICE Steak Night

from £14.95

EVERY THURSDAY

www.thehalekitchen.co.uk/wordpress www.facebook.com/thehalekitchen

Book now for Mother’s Day

www.twitter.com/TheHaleKitchen

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LocAL NEWs

LS LOWRY AND THEODORE MAJOR AT CLARK ART An important exhibition of works by Theodore Major and LS Lowry entitled ‘LS Lowry and Theodore Major: Two Lancashire Painters’ is being held at the Atkinson Art Gallery in Southport, 17 January - 29 March. This is the third exhibition of Theodore Major’s work in a public gallery in recent years.

Lowry and Major have not exhibited together publically since the 1950s, so this exhibition will be a fantastic showcase for the two greatest Northern School artists.

Lowry’s place as the founder of the Northern School of Art is undisputed, but Theodore Major is also one of the most important Northern artists of his generation. He lived to paint and shunned fame and fortune. If he had

not rejected the commercial gallery system, he had the potential to be as big as Lowry. To mark this important event, Clark Art are holding a separate LS Lowry and Theodore Major exhibition within their current Winter

Exhibition at their gallery in Hale, Cheshire. Nineteen works by Lowry and Major will be available to view during the exhibition.

RUTH IMPRESSES AT CHESHIRE’S MOTTRAM HALL TV presenter Ruth Langsford delighted a group of guests at a VIP event in Cheshire, having had ClarivuTM (Refractive Lens Exchange) to transform her vision.

Ruth shared the story of her wonderful new vision with people interested in the treatment.

Ruth explained how her poor vision caused her no end of challenges at work: “Life before the procedure was very irritating and frustrating.

It was particularly difficult at work if I had to switch from reading the autocue or interviewing guests to checking facts on my notes. I would need to have my glasses to hand at all times, to put them on to read my notes and then take them off again to speak to the guest.”

She was eager to improve her vision and chose Clarivu RLE, a procedure where the lens of her eyes was replaced with individually tailored lenses to correct her vision. The painless 20-minute procedure has left Ruth with perfect vision, and no more glasses!

Ruth describes the procedure as ‘liberating and life-changing’ and added: “Now I don’t have to carry the paraphernalia of glasses, reading glasses, driving glasses, prescription sunglasses and contact lenses – and I feel younger and more confident. I can look down at my script in the studio and read things without panicking about not having my glasses. If you’re thinking of having Clarivu, I’d definitely say go for it!”

For a free consultation contact Optegra Manchester Eye Hospital on 0800 358 0825.

Clinical Reflexology Julia Radatsz PRM, CRM5 CNHC.

Have better health with reflexology

in the comfort of your own home Reflexology is a most relaxing natural therapy, it improves blood circulation and restores a natural state of balance and well-being for mind body and soul.

I specialise in the everyday health problems and can help you with:• Improving your state of wellbeing • Deep relaxation • sleep problems • Releasing tension • Balancing hormones • stress relief • circulatory problems Tel: 0753 1680 293 | Email: reflexologyforbetterhealth@gmail.com | Alternatively: juliaradatsz@btinternet.com 9

LocaL News

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MACLEODBRADLEY Congratulations to Helen Bradley and the team at macleodbradley East. The salon, celebrating its first birthday in East Didsbury, is Helen’s second salon following the success of macleodbradley West. Helen said: “We believe in creating the total ‘rock star treatment’ for our guests and we concentrate on making the entire visit to the salon, from booking the appointment to leaving transformed, a fantastic customer experience. It works in West Didsbury and we are happy to say it is working well in East Didsbury too!”

STARRY LUNCH Suzanne and Cole Page, patrons of Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity, recently welcomed 310 guests to celebrate the seventh year of their annual Christmas Starry Lunch at the prestigious Midland Hotel in Manchester.

The event raised over £39,000 for the hospital to support the refurbishment of the Winnicott Centre at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital. This money will help to transform areas within the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit, which supports children with mental illnesses and who may have experienced significant trauma in their lives.

Surranne Jones, Suzanne and Cole Page

TAYLOR LYNN CORPORATION AND SPRINGBANK CELEBRATE IN STYLE Sarah Dowse, Dave Hay, Liz Taylor, Pete Hay & Ellie Kennedy

Sonia Anand & Claire Hunter

Two hundred people gathered at a glittering cocktail party hosted by event management company the Taylor Lynn Corporation and Springbank floristry designers. Guests from Manchester’s and Cheshire's hotels and venues, the companies’ suppliers, local businesses and clients gathered to celebrate the festive season with cocktails and entertainment from The Riviera Band.

BRAND-NEW CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL TO BE LAUNCHED AT TATTON PARK Brand-new to the festival scene for 2015 comes Geronimo, a long weekend of organised mayhem at one of England’s premier visitor attractions, Tatton Park in Cheshire.

Geronimo is aimed at families with children aged 2 to 12 years old and will make its debut over the May Bank Holiday weekend (Saturday 23 – Monday 25 May). It’s set to deliver an exciting programme of acts, amazing 10

experiences and wonderful adventures, resulting in a fantastic family day out.

The lineup is jam-packed with hundreds of things to see and do, and will offer families a rewarding experience through a combination of imagination,

creativity and adventure, as well as exciting live performances from some of the best-loved names in children’s entertainment.

To purchase tickets and for more information, visit geronimofest.com

Further expansion on the mind of Emma Nawaz of Blackstone Solicitors Back in 2010 Emma Nawaz launched Blackstone Solicitors in Hale with just herself and a secretary. The focus was on commercial and property litigation. The firm has since moved into prestigious offices on Cecil Road, Hale and now boasts a team of 11. Last year the company achieved a string of awards, including winning Team of the Year Litigation at the Manchester Law Society Awards and being short-listed at both the Law Society Excellence Awards and the Modern Law Awards. Blackstone Solicitors also achieved Excellence in Investors in People.

For 2015 the firm is set for further expansion as the Property Department that was launched towards the end of 2014 goes from strength to strength.

So what do we know about the lady behind the continued success and expansion of Blackstone Solicitors?

Emma lives in Hale with her husband Suhail and three children, Arabella, Felix and Conrad. Emma has always had that determination to succeed at whatever she does.

Emma appears to have successfully juggled her role with the family while driving her career forward. “When I began my career in law, I always wanted to have my own practice and build my own team, a team with the same drive and passion to succeed as I have. I am very fortunate in having good support around me, both professionally and personally, which has allowed me the work/life balance.

I have an on and off switch (I’m told this because I’m a Gemini). At work I’m 100% focused on work, so much so I once forgot that the nursery had rang asking me to collect my little one who wasn’t well; as soon as I put the phone down I was back in work mode and embarrassingly remembered a few hours later!

At home I’m full-on mummyabsorbed with my three gorgeous children and hearing about my husband’s day.

On busy weeks I then pick up my work again once the children are asleep.

I consider myself very fortunate to be able to have the best of both worlds.

It is important to me that my daughter observes that you can work and have children and be very happy.

I also manage to have lunch in the village with my husband once or twice a week and I think this time together is so important and we are privileged that our circumstances allow us to do this” When setting up Blackstone, her focus was on Litigation. Emma explains: “We have been extremely successful with this strategy, attracting a whole range of clients to use our services, many of whom now instruct us regularly. Undoubtedly, our tenacious approach coupled with a very high level of academic expertise across our team has taken the business forward.

Towards the end of last year we expanded our services and introduced a Property Department headed by a highly qualified property lawyer. This expansion has allowed me to expand the business further and to offer an even greater range of services to clients.

We are confident that 2015 will be a fabulous and exciting year for us and our clients.”

Blackstone Solicitors, Campaign House, 8 Cecil Road, Hale, Cheshire WA15 9PA Tel: 0161 929 0121 Email info@blackstonesolicitorsltd.co.uk www.blackstonesolicitorsltd.co.uk

Our tenacious property team: Communicate – we will always be available and inform you where the transaction is up to.

Efficient – we will act promptly and drive the transaction through to exchange and completion.

Transparent – we have a clear fixed fee structure for your particular transaction.

Our services: Buying, Selling, Remortgaging, Commercial Property, Commercial and Property disputes.

Please call us on 0161 929 0121 as we’d be delighted to talk to you.

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BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET

Wednesday – Saturday 4 – 7 March 2015

Director David Bintley CBE

####

THE FINANCIAL TIMES

‘Vivid and mischievous... an outstanding production.’

THE DAILY EXPRESS

0843 0 843 2 208 08 6 6010 010 w www.thelowry.com/coppelia ww.thelowry.com/coppelia 12

w www.brb.org.uk ww.brb.org.uk

What’s on at

THE NORTHERN Spring at The Northern is all about supporting those New Year’s resolutions to get fitter, slimmer and stronger - and to get more out of life.

If you have something special lined up for 2015 - a wedding, a new baby, a better job or a tougher sporting target the club, with its team of personal trainers and sports coaches, can help you make the most of the opportunities coming your way.

All sport and fitness activities at the club are supported by the on-site Physiquipe physio clinic, which offers both remedial treatments and sports massage, and boasts state-of-the-art equipment such as the AlterG antigravity treadmill (as used by Mo Farah!).

When you've achieved your goal, we can help you celebrate too, in our comfortable bar and function room, which opens out onto the covered, heated deck overlooking the grass tennis courts. After ideas for a stag or hen do? How about a Zumba party or a fun squash/tennis mini-tournament, followed by afternoon tea or champagne on the deck?

The squash season is still in full swing, with the club's 20 senior and junior teams still battling it out in their various league programmes. Meanwhile, the tennis players are limbering up for their league season on the indoor and artificial surfaces, and keeping a watchful eye on the new grass pushing up from the reseeded grass courts.

Zumba is just one of the studio classes available on our fitness timetable; others are Total Tone, HIIT, Studio Cycling (on the Keiser bikes), Kettleball Workout, Circuits, Pilates, Yoga – the list goes on!

If you prefer a one-to-one concentrated fitness workout, our personal training team who specialise in run technique, endurance training, and sports specific goals can help. Running groups are available for all standards, including a POSE Run Technique session.

Both tennis and squash offer extensive senior coaching facilities along with progressive junior coaching programmes. Tennis juniors recently welcomed back a star ‘graduate’ from their programme when British No 3 and Northern member Naomi Broady presented the awards at their Presentation Evening.

The Northern Tennis Awards Presented by Naomi Broady COnTACT...

For personal training enquiries: www.thenorthern.co.uk/fitness/ fitness-team For tennis and squash coaching: rackets@thenorthern.co.uk To book the Clubhouse: membership@thenorthern.co.uk Physiquipe Clinic: www.thenorthern.co.uk/fitness/ performance-clinic Beauty by Angela: www.thenorthern.co.uk/about-theclub/beauty-clinic

For social players, both tennis and squash run weekly club nights and there are Pay 'n' Play opportunities for non-members.

NORTHERN MEMBERSHIP The Northern is offering 10% discount on Full or Fitness-and-Health annual rates upon production of this magazine. Student, Family, Off-peak and Social membership rates are also available, and all memberships may be paid monthly or annually. NHS/Corporate discounts.

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nORTHERn ART Clark Art Ltd of Hale are the North’s leading art gallery and are national specialists in LS Lowry and northern investment art.

A wide range of work is always on display at our Hale gallery. We also give free valuations.

L. S. Lowry, Man Posting a Letter, 1960, Oil on Canvas, 20” x 24” Artists include: LS Lowry, Helen Bradley, Theodore Major, Alan Lowndes, Braaq, Harold Riley, Harry Rutherford, John Thompson, William Turner, Adolphe Valette, Trevor Grimshaw, Sheila Fell, Ben Kelly, Liam Spencer, Fred Yates, Reg Gardner, Geoffrey Key, Peter Brook, Phil George, Stephen Campbell and many others.

We are currently looking to buy original works

by LS Lowry and Harold Riley.

155 Ashley Road, Hale, Cheshire WA14 2UW Tel: 0161 929 5150 email: art@clark-art.co.uk Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday 10am-5.30pm

www.clark-art.co.uk

Charlotte’s Diary

M

y definition of ‘old’ in this case is 80 plus, and the question follows the purchase of ‘tablets’ for the two grannies over the festive season. Not unlike our children, the oldies have been clamouring for the latest in digital communications for sometime now and like all good grown-ups we have made them wait and wait until we felt they were ready. I am now not sure we actually got the timing right.

Latest technology and old people – can that ever be a good combination?

However, after the gruelling, try-thepatience-of-a-saint, day-long session, including three hours for the computerliterate neighbour to set up emails, remembering passwords, registering travel passes and loading up Facebook, we finally put them both on the trajectory that left behind the tenminute wait for the computer to switch on, the layers of viruses, and of course, the inability to open any emails.

There was much joy and elation at the speed and mobility of their new devices.

It all looked good until they discovered Skype. Now don’t get me wrong, I like Skype; at least it makes you look like you, rather than Mrs Potato Head, which is what Facetime does. No, I like Skype. It is just that having my mother-in-law suddenly pinging into

the inbox and appearing on the screen takes some getting used to, to say the least. Not content with Skyping the immediate family, the grannies have been Skyping each other and anyone who has a spare half-hour to talk about the clarity of the picture and the wonders of technology.

So, I ponder loudly, with Mother’s Day just around the corner and the geographic distance between all of us in mind, perhaps we can have a ‘virtual meal’ together with the help of Skype?

I have always been in a bit of a quandary about Mother’s Day. Initially, when I was a new mum I felt it was all commercialised nonsense and every day should be Mother’s Day. Why only presents on one day?

pride of place (and all the presents!) when it comes to Mother’s Day. But I digress.

Anyway, so I thought what a good idea, we can pop our screens up at the table and invite them across the miles and it would be fun. And then, just when you think this actually could be all right, the question you least expect comes (via landline telephone, naturally). “So what is the difference between email and the internet?” Groan. Back to the kitchen table everyone; tutorial starts again.

By Charlotte Batra

However, this has merely led to me being usurped by the grannies who now take 15

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With Mother’s Day just around the corner, the crunch is on to find the perfect gift…

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1. Home is Where Mum is cushion £19.50 M&S 2. 3D Floral Box Clutch £24.99 New Look 3. Drops of Youth Bouncy sleeping mask £22 The Body Shop 4. Gardening tools £15 Paperchase 5. Seychelles Floral Silk Square Scarf £25 Accessorize 6. Nan mug £4 Sainsbury’s 7. Floral Print Glass Jewellery Box £12 Sainsbury’s 8. Watercolour Effect Floral Pillar Candle £4 Sainsbury’s 9. Floral Print Frame 5x7 £8. Sainsbury’s 10. The Pamper Collection £50 Hotel Chocolat 11. Watch £115 Karen Millen

sALUTIoNs chRIsTmAs BALL 2014

Salutions

Christmas Ball 2014 Guests enjoyed a champagne reception and a sumptuous three-course dinner at the Salutions Christmas Ball at The Midland Hotel. There was entertainment throughout from Jazz funk soul band Smooth Edge and a DJ playing in to the small hours.

Hosts Chelsea Norris and John Thomson were a huge success, helping us to raise over £7000 for the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Many Hands Appeal.

Thanks to our sponsors United Airlines, TBD Associates and giraffe event solutions, Peter Shrigley at The Midland, everyone who donated prizes, helped out or joined us for what turned out to be a fabulous evening.

Details of the 2015 Christmas Ball to be announced soon.

Visit www.salutions.co.uk to view the video.

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sALUTIoNs chRIsTmAs BALL 2014

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Visit www.salutions.co.uk to view the video.

sALUTIoNs chRIsTmAs BALL 2014

Visit www.salutions.co.uk to view the video.

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LAUREN sImoN

We interviewed you a few years ago.

How’s life been since?

Life hasn’t really changed; I’m still in the same house and I still have the same husband. My life has been like this since I was born; I have always lived in Lauren’s world and I always will.

Spill the beans – what happened behind the scenes?

We are actually the best of friends now; we have a lot of fun and it’s really nice to have a new set of friends. Leanne, Dawn and Magali may have a troublesome relationship but I think they had that coming in to the show.

Tell us about the others. In episode one it was Magali who was the focus of the wives; in episode two it was Ampika. When is it your turn?

I believe it is in the castle (episode five) when you will see another side of Lauren. Reality television is a funny thing – reliving the drivel that comes out of your mouth. I am always in shock when I hear what I have said!

Aren’t the real Real Housewives of Cheshire farmers’ daughters in Chelford?

Of course they are, that’s what I say in the programme, but new money has moved here with footballers and so on, bringing the glamour and the glitz and the champagne parties! Most people from round here go to the pub in tweed – how dull! No one wants to watch that on the television.

Weren’t you nervous about the Director's cut?

I am actually really pleased with how the programme has turned out. Real Housewives is a brand and I have watched them all and loved them, and you know what they expect, but also that they want you to come back and hopefully do more series. Why would they want us to look stupid? The only person who can make you look stupid is yourself, and I think I’m quite capable of that!

Finally, what else are you up to?

Anything in the pipeline?

At the moment I am currently writing my book, which has taken me ten years! It is about my life from the age of 21 – 40, as my husband took me back to LA for my 40th birthday to see all my old friends from back then.

It also features some naughtiness from the five years I worked in PR and marketing in London; there are lots of celebs and famous names mentioned.

It’s a great read for the beach. I am also designing a collection of leather dresses.

So Lauren, how did you get involved in Real Housewives of Cheshire?

I was on holiday at the time having a lovely time, and the casting people wanted to set up a Skype interview.

Then the casting people met me when I was home and I greeted them with Sweetie, the rabbit in my arms, and they just signed me up straight away!

Come on, life’s not really like this in Hale, is it?

Yes it is. I wobble down the high street in my little bubble, wave hello to the butchers, have a coffee in a cafe, pop over to the gym, pick the kids up and we go out for dinner, with a bit of homework in between and not even that if I can avoid it.

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The Real Housewives of Cheshire airs Mondays at 10pm on ITVBe.

Simon

Lauren 21

TRAVEL YoRKshIRE Jill Nash is an independent freelance travel journalist based in Cheshire.

RETREAT TO

YORKSHIRE Yorkshire is packed full of exciting family outings, delicious eateries and the great outdoors. Jill Nash explores a natural retreat.

EXPLORE Richmond is rich in history, with abbeys, waterfalls, caves and cobbled street markets – it’s one of Britain’s most underrated towns. The Norman Castle stands proud as one of the oldest stone castles in England, and a must-see of the area. The Georgian Theatre Royal is also a little gem of a place, with regular performances and free daily tours that are perfect rainy-day options, www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk

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Being part of Britain’s largest National Park, walking, hiking and mountain-biking adventures are numerous. You can pedal your way across the sweeping countryside or walk across the dales and moors and around the River Swale.

Outdoor lovers will also enjoy exploring one of the many cave complexes – or visiting the famous and breathtaking Bolton Abbey, which is about an hour’s drive away, www.boltonabbey.com

There are underground chambers, tunnels that shrink down to tiny doorways that adults have to crawl through, and statues that are waiting to spring a surprise on the unwary, www.theforbiddencorner.co.uk

The Forbidden Corner at Leyburn is not to be missed. It is often called a magical place and appeals to children and adults alike. Built in the four-acre gardens of Tupgill Park in the Dales, it's a warren of labyrinths, follies, passageways and secret doors.

The Dales Waterfalls of Aysgarth Falls, High Force, Hardraw Force, Janet’s Foss, are great to couple with a country pub lunch or dinner. Or drive 30-40 minutes to Tan Hill through the Dales and into the wilderness, where you’ll be able to tick a visit to the highest pub in England off your list!

TRAVEL YoRKshIRE

Also worth a visit is the Black Sheep Brewery for a guided tour where you will find out how they brew their famous ales and maybe sample a drop or two. In addition, there’s a great bistro serving fresh local produce in a lovely atmosphere, www.wensleydale.co.uk For a laidback English pub meal, head to The Heifer in Scorton, where they serve mouthwatering starters like asparagus wrapped in Palma ham with chilli butter topped off by a poached egg, and classic mains, such as slow-cooked beef in red wine, www.theheiferscorton.co.uk

DINE

STAY

Yorkshire is as famous for its rich heritage as its afternoon tea. Betty’s tearoom has become an institution in its own right. In 1919, a Swiss baker opened the café in Harrogate, followed by York. They now have six tearooms in the area.

The afternoon tea experience here is not to be missed, with over 300 breads, cakes and chocolates to choose from, and with over fifty teas and coffees, you’ll be spoilt for choice, www.bettys.co.uk

Set in the rugged moors of North Yorkshire, Natural Retreats offer fantastic stylish three-bedroom self-catering residences in the sweeping countryside just outside Richmond. These residences have been recently given an overhaul, and properties are nestled in the rolling hills, which provide plenty of peace and quiet in a natural setting (a perfect alternative to camping). The cabins are ecologically built in wood and glass, embedded into the countryside but with views overlooking Swaledale.

The interiors are modern, bright and airy, and for those who can’t be without the internet they also offer free wi-fi.

The Wensleydale Creamery is great fun to visit for the whole family. Only 50 minutes away from Richmond and you can learn all about the art of cheese-making, enjoy cheese-tasting and purchase an edible souvenir at the Cheese Shop, Deli and Gift Shop.

For chilly winter evenings, they have log-burning stoves, and fluffy tartan throws as wraparounds.

Families and large groups will have ample space, as the residences have dining areas both inside and out, large bathrooms, and a small soft-play area inside for children at The Sanctuary. The lodges are well equipped with everything you’ll need. Simply turn up with some food! The highly knowledgeable concierge team can pre-arrange anything from spa treatments to picnic hampers and can also help you with local restaurant recommendations on arrival too. A three-bedroom residence (which sleeps up to six people) costs from £748 per week. Visit www.naturalretreats.co.uk 23

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I DO It’s your big day, but the reality of planning it can often turn into a bit of a nightmare – particularly if you're after something that little bit different.

Our wedding feature will hopefully give you a few ideas for the perfect day.

Image courtesy of Entertainment Today

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12 MONTHS 12 MONTHS TO GO…

10 MONTHS TO GO…

8 MONTHS TO GO…

•

Decide on your budget with your fiancé and parents

•

•

•

Choose and fix a date and time

Choose your attendants bridesmaids, ushers and best man etc.

•

Decide on guest numbers

•

Decide on your dress (allow at least six months)

If you're getting married in a church, discuss readings with the minister or priest and music with the musicians

•

•

Visit venues and book as soon as possible

•

Choose and order your bridesmaid's outfits

If it's a civil ceremony, enquire about what readings and music are permitted

•

Buy wedding insurance

•

Start thinking about a honeymoon

•

Order invitations and envelopes (allow one invitation per married couple or family), plus place cards, menus and a seating plan

11 MONTHS TO GO…

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•

Send save-the-dates

•

Book a photographer and videographer (Make sure the church/wedding venue allows photos/videos)

•

Book the caterer, DJ/band

•

Make appointments with shops to try on wedding dresses

9 MONTHS TO GO… •

Find a florist and choose your flowers, including buttonholes, bouquets and arrangements for the church/venue

•

Taste and confirm your menu and drinks with your caterer

•

Choose and order your bridesmaid outfits

7 MONTHS TO GO… •

Book transport to the wedding venue and on to the reception for you and your bridal party (as well as a car to take you to your firstnight hotel or the airport)

•

Order your wedding cake

•

Choose and order wedding favours

WEDDING

PLANNER 6 MONTHS TO GO…

•

Find out if you need visas or inoculations for your honeymoon

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Get your fiancé’s and the usher’s outfits

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Discuss hen and stag night plans with friends

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Choose gifts for the wedding party

•

Pick your wedding rings

•

Confirm the order of service with your priest or registrar, and get them printed.

5 MONTHS TO GO… •

Book a honeymoon

•

Book a hairdresser and style consultation

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Book your make-up artist and trial appointments

4 MONTHS TO GO… •

If you're changing your name, renew your passport now or do it after your honeymoon. The minister or registrar will sign the form

•

Try on your whole wedding outfit, including headdress, shoes and underwear. Buy anything else you’ve forgotten

•

Book beauty treatments (nails, fake tans, etc.)

3 MONTHS TO GO… •

Pick a company and start gift-list window-shopping!

•

Book a hair colour (if you get your hair coloured) and a trim

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Organise a rehearsal and inform those who will need to be there

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Attend a reading of the banns, if you're getting married in a church

2 MONTHS TO GO… •

Send out invitations six weeks before the day and keep a list of acceptances

•

Check that your fiancé has organised the rings, his wedding clothes, and your first-night hotel

1 MONTH TO GO… •

Confirm numbers with caterers and do the seating plan

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Discuss special requests with your band or DJ

•

Order honeymoon currency and traveller's cheques

•

Visit the hairdresser to try out hairstyles with your veil and tiara, and have your final cut and colour

Have your hen and stag nights –

It’s time to

party!

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Perfect Dream, Perfect Wedding

It’s about never needing to let your feet touch the ground. Ever.

2IZIV RIIHMRK XS JIIP XLI TVIWWYVIW SJ FIMRK XLI FVMHI XS FI -X´W EFSYX ¾SEXMRK across a sea of calm, as consummate professionals handle each and every detail before your very eyes.

It’s about nature.We have it. 270 glorious acres of it.

Your wedding at Mottram Hall. It’s second nature to us.

See how we can be your perfect wedding venue at our wedding fayre on 19th April 2015, 12pm – 4pm.

Alternatively, visit one of our monthly wedding open days – contact Mottram Hall for more details.

QHotels.co.uk/MottramHallWeddings 01625 828 135 | mottramweddings@QHotels.co.uk Mottram Hall,Wilmslow Rd, Mottram St Andrew, Cheshire SK10 4QT Terms and conditions apply. Open days and wedding fayre date subject to change at the discretion of the hotel.

I

t’s important to remember that everyone has different tastes when it comes to wedding dresses. Look at boutiques online and choose three that best suit your style based on the photos of dresses and the overall feel of the boutique, then read what they say in their ‘About’ section.

Most boutiques will need a few weeks’ notice, especially on Saturdays, so book in advance to get the best appointment. Take someone who knows your style well (their feedback needs to be about what you look like in the dress and not what they personally prefer). Think hard about this; it’s a big-enough decision without having to fight someone else’s opinion.

Once you’ve visited all three boutiques, sit down and have a review with your attendee. Think about what you felt most comfortable in, which suited your personality and your venue. Sometimes you may decide the moment you put on a gown for the second time, others may need a little more time to decide on, so book in for your second appointment as soon as you can.

Your third appointment is usually to order your dress. Your measurements will be taken, you will sign a dress contract and pay half the price of your dress as deposit. Usually, dresses arrive around two months before your wedding date.

It is important to remember that wedding gowns come in standard sizes, unless you pay for bespoke, and all will need some form of alteration to fit properly. This is what your first fitting is for. Two or three fittings are usual for any bride. If you are intending to lose weight, tell the salesperson at the time of ordering as they can then advise on time scales and dates for your final fitting before your dress is manufactured.

This will save you money in alteration costs when your dress arrives.

We always give dresses a final steam before brides pick them up.

Make sure you hang your dress up in the bag as soon as you get it home.

Most importantly, remember to have fun choosing your dress!

We aim to provide a friendly, relaxed atmosphere here at The Case of the Curious Bride. You can find us on Marsland Road in Sale.

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR WEDDING DRESS The Case of the Curious Bride By Melanie Wilson

Bridal Boutique with a Difference To book an appointment Call: 0161 962 1018 or Email:info@thecaseofthecuriousbride.com 29

WOMEN’S FASHION

WEDDING The smartest brides are heading to the high street for fashion-forward frocks and accessories for their bridesmaids. Choose lace, satin and jewels in the sweetest of pastel shades.

Biba Gold teal silk dress with feather trim £225 House of Fraser

By Jessica Lowe

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Cotrell slingback shoe £59.95 Moda in Pelle

Hangisi light blue satin pump £680 Harvey Nichols

Aura precious stone short drop earrings £15 Accessorize

Metallic dress £69 Marks & Spencer

FASHION Paule Ka rose bow crepe dress £525 Harvey Nichols

Gold pearl and pastel blue necklace £15.95 What's About Town?

Blue midi dress £39.99 New Look

Charlotte Necklace £149 Hobbs

Romily Bridesmaid Dress £160.00 Phase Eight

WOMEN’S FASHION

Embellished box clutch £24.99 New Look 31

Ac ce sso

rie s

Bla ck l

ea th er be £9 lt 5

MEN’S FASHION

Pa ul

WEDDING FASHION

Sm ith

Lanvin Black leather floral lapel pin £125

Heading to a wedding? Wear your trusty suit and favourite tie then focus on the finer details to give your formal attire a stylish edge. Opt for interesting cufflinks, a quirky belt or why not try a pin?

By Jessica Lowe

All products available from Harvey Nichols

Grenson Sid burgundy glossed leather brogues £220

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ILL.I OPTICS BY WILL.I.AM Black and gold aviator style sunglasses £190

Tateossian Blue round gears silver cufflinks £110

Uniform Wares 351 Series rose gold tone watch £600

THE PERFECT TIME...

. . . T O S AY " I D O "

RADISSON BLU HOTEL MANCHESTER AIRPORT Chicago Avenue, M90 3RA Manchester, United Kingdom T: +44 161 490 5000 reservations.manchester@radissonblu.com radissonblu.co.uk/hotel-manchesterairport

Looking for a band for your wedding?

Smooth EdgE arE thE pErfEct choicE.

Their unique, funky, smooth jazz and soul style appeals to all music lovers and lends itself to any occasion.

When they up that tempo there is rarely a space on the dance floor! Working with some of the most talented musicians and vocalists in the business, we are very lucky to have them on our doorstep.

They have been busy working some of the biggest events (including the Didsbury Magazine Christmas Ball)

but you can catch them on 14 February 2015 at the Cinnamon Club, Bowdon for a special ‘Valentine’s Night with Smooth Edge Music’. See the website for details on how to book tickets. www.cinnamonclub.net For those of you not able to catch them on Valentine’s night, fear not, as they appear regularly at the Bubble Room in Alderley Edge and Bramhall, and will be at the Mere Country Club in March.

l band k sousoul zz funfunk JaJazz band Residencies Weddings | Corporate Events |

Private functions | Weddings | Bah Mitzvahs a speciality

Call Smooth Edge on 07891 305 876 or email:info@smoothedgemusic.co.uk 34

www.smoothedgemusic.co.uk

1

FINISHING TOUCHES for a perfect day…

2 3

4

5

7

6

Gift Wrapped & Gorgeous.

1. £24.99 www.GettingPersonal.co.uk 2. £17 www.thecutlerycommission.com 3. £22 www.thecutlerycommission.com 4. £28 www.thecutlerycommission.com 5. £7 Paperchase 6. £67 www.kyleighspapercuts.co.uk 7. £34.99 www.GettingPersonal.co.uk

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FINE JE WELLERY SINCE 1894

YOUR PERSONAL JEWELLER BY APPOINTMENT ONLY ”WHERE DIAMONDS COST LESS”

To reserve your private appointment at our showroom Tel: 0161 773 0000 Or you can email: enquiries@donnsjewellery.com

We wanted to get married abroad so when we found The Sheraton Algarve in Portugal, we just knew it was the perfect venue. The view was breathtaking and we could get married overlooking the ocean.

We were lucky enough to have Julie Arnold who is the director of Entertainment Today and a fantastic and very experienced wedding planner who organised our day to the final detail. She took away all the stress and made the build-up such a pleasant experience. She really helped us to achieve our dream wedding.

The morning build-up was spent with my bridesmaids and my mother. They kept me calm throughout and I loved being pampered! The day went better than we could ever have imagined and was perfect in every way. My pre-wedding nerves instantly vanished when I saw Nick at the end of the aisle, with our nearest and dearest. The ceremony area was beautiful, Nick Eastwood & Emma Cresswell. Photography Mike Petch the flowers were stunning and the view Wedding by Entertainment Today was magnificent; it really was like something t took me a while to find my perfect dress off a postcard. The photographer captured but finally I found it, and after a few every moment without being obtrusive and alterations I knew it was the one. Cheshire has given us beautiful photos we will Bridal Wear were amazing and very patient! treasure forever.

I

Upon entering the area where the wedding breakfast was being held it literally gave me goosebumps. Julie Arnold and her team had worked their magic and transformed the sunset deck into a breath-taking area for ourselves and our guests to enjoy. We had opted for a mint green colour which looked amazing in the sun. The stationery matched perfectly and was exactly what we had had in mind.

The speeches were entertaining and there was a good mixture of laughter and emotion, the best man who is a musician even wrote and performed a song for us on the guitar which was very personal.

We moved down to the beach for our evening reception and it was just perfect dancing with the sea breeze in our hair!

For our first dance we chose James Morrison ‘Won’t let you go’ and danced the night away with family and friends to a DJ and saxophonist.

Top tip: Hire a wedding planner, it takes away all the stress and makes it hassle free. Entertainment Today are amazing!

• full or partial wedding planning • on the day coordination • venue sourcing • exotic locations/honeymoons personalised ceremonies • venue dressing • sourcing key suppliers • music & entertainment

www.entertainmenttoday.co.uk

info@entertainmenttoday.co.uk | Telephone: +44 (0)161 484 0876

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New to Didsbury Village and recently nominated for independent jewellery retailer of the year, Victoria Highfield are an independent successful jewellers. They cater for all tastes and all budgets, from simple earrings to exquisite watches and diamond rings.

In the past ten years, Victoria Highfield have gone from strength to strength. Most recently, they introduced a fantastic new ecommerce website, and opened their stunning new shop in Didsbury just before Christmas.

As well as carrying many high-end brands, they are a working jewellers. Many customers have images of their own bespoke pieces and Victoria Highfield have brought these images to life. Also, with one of the most competitive repair services you will find, there isn't much they can't do.

2015 promises to be a busy year for Victoria Highfield.

January saw them attend the First National Gay Wedding Exhibition where they showcased their bespoke design talents and wedding accessories.

Along with the new store in Didsbury, they are also based in Heaton Moor Stockport.

A lively, friendly and experienced team, the staff are happy to answer any questions or queries and always make your shopping experience enjoyable.

Victoria Highfield Jewellers @vhjewellers

735 Wilmslow Road | Didsbury | Manchester | M20 6WF | Tel. 0161 434 8111 143 Heaton Moor Road | Heaton Moor | Stockport | Cheshire | SK4 4HY | Tel. 0161 442 8229 www.victoriahighfield.com 38

Introducing...

The Diamond Dazzle Stik. Meet the sleek, cosmetic-style pen that makes all your diamonds and precious stones sparkle like new in seconds.

Micro-fine cleansers and polishing agents fill tiny scratches in platinum and gold jewellery settings, and clean away the daily grime that dulls your diamonds.

Wherever you go, give your diamonds and gemstones a regular beauty treatment to always Dazzle 'Em!

In Store Now! Victoria Highfield Jewellers Limited | Heaton Moor 0161 442 8229 | Didsbury 0161 434 8111 www.victoriahighfield.com

A Special Gift

for you...£10 Redeem against any purchase of £100 or over at Victoria Highfield Jewellers. Only one per transaction.

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TRAVEL LONDON

Ever fancied a stay on a superyacht?

Jill Nash steps inside London’s first floating hotel, The Sunborn, for a unique night on the Thames.

SLEEP The Sunborn is a 394ft, slick-looking, five-storey yacht parked in Royal Victoria Dock, with views of the glittering Millennium Dome. A stay here is unique, and aims to impress.

The grand gold entrance with glass chandelier and red carpet entrance certainly does the trick, not to mention the attentive and knowledgeable concierge staff who can attend to booking theatre tickets, to taxis, not that you would ever want to leave this luxury vessel. Apparently, it’s a popular place to pop the question, so for those with a romantic streak, they offer romantic packages complete with rose petals strewn across the bedroom.

Guests have every opportunity to enjoy the yacht’s unique features.

Rooms and suites take luxury to another level: light-filled accommodation opening on to amazing vistas, some with a private balcony or terrace.

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The hotel’s public spaces help to create an unforgettable experience and make the best use of the waterfront location, with opportunities to enjoy the 360-degree views from its restaurants, bars and top deck. A stay here wouldn’t be complete without sipping a cocktail on the sundown bar, where you can sit on the outside terrace and admire the panoramic views of the river.

Room prices start from £160 per night, which isn't breaking the bank for a superyacht. By comparison, chartering a luxury yacht for a week costs tens of thousands of pounds, and a London hotel room is an average £127 a night. www.sunbornhotels.com

DRINK and DINE The London social scene just gets better. It’s experienced a fast turnaround in the past 15 years, with an abundance of top chefs opening up

exclusive restaurants and creating delicacies to die for. A lunch at the Riding House Café is no ordinary café.

It’s a stylish, must-be-seen restaurant that is fully booked every lunchtime with fashionistas, and the ‘it crowd’.

It offers a stunning choice of fresh fruit smoothies, and delectable tapas-style mains (not to mention the tempting desserts) and as it’s near to Oxford Street it’s the perfect spot to stop and rest those tired shopper’s legs.

End the day with cocktail drinks at Aqua Nueva (located in Soho), a rooftop terrace that’s a cool place to hang out before the sunset and the night begins. London nightlife is glamorous at the Connaught Bar, and popular with the royals is Mahiki, where you can always be sure of a good kitsch cocktail. For after-hours, there's The East Room — you're supposed to be a member, but they've been known to be flexible.

TRAVEL LONDON

EXPLORE Situated in the historic Victorian railway arches of London Bridge at South Bank, Vinopolis welcomes winelovers from near and far to embark on an adventure of the taste buds.

Whether you want to visit London for the weekend or explore a different part of the city for the first time, Vinopolis is the perfect excuse for learning wine etiquette (and the perfect place to impress a date!).

It’s open daily to welcome visitors who wish to experience its famous self-guided wine experiences, sample the delectable range of wines on offer and learn about the secrets of wine-tasting. Choose from various wine-experience packages to determine how much of a wine connoisseur you are with their 7, 12 or 16 token packages.

Experiences begin with a 15-minute ‘introduction to wine’, which will see you slurp, swish and guzzle to set you off tasting wine like a pro. After the introduction you will be set loose in the labyrinthine wine experience, sending you on a journey of discovery into the intriguing world of wine. Packages range from £32 to £42 with the option of 7, 12 or 16 tokens. www.vinopolis.co.uk

Getting there Virgin Trains operate a super-fast service between Manchester, and London Euston (calling at Stockport, Wilmslow, and Warrington Bank Quay).

The journey takes typically 1 hour 50 mins. Off-peak return fares are from £70 return, and first-class upgrades are usually available at weekends for £15 per person each way. Visit www.virgintrains.co.uk for more information.

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The importance of looking good on your wedding day is lost on no-one in the run-up to the occasion. Believe me, my mum is that woman at this moment in time, and I get asked by her twice daily on what she can do to ‘lose fat fast!’ I’m not in the game of letting people believe fast fat loss is a guarantee, but my tips below will certainly give you the best possible chance!

Getting wedding fit!

T

When looking at the most effective exercise regime to get you fit for your big day, remember calories don’t count. Increasing metabolism and positively affecting fat-storing hormones is most important, especially when you want to lose fat from the thighs and bum!

A pound of muscle is about the size of a strawberry; a pound of fat is around the size of a medium pack of Lurpak.

Which would you rather have on your bum?

A great way to get a ‘cardio effect’ from weight training is to combine upper-body and lower-body exercises together in pairs. For example, a Dumbbell Press immediately followed by the Leg Press for 15 reps with a 45 to 60-second rest period repeated three times. Unlike actual cardio, strength training like this helps metabolise toxins, which cause fat storage on the thighs and bum!

he goal is to get into that beautiful wedding dress.

From experience I know that most brides go for a calorie-cutting and calorie-burning approach often consisting of drastic crash dieting and way too many long runs or spin classes, but there is a far more enjoyable approach.

So how do you achieve this?

Think of those strawberries!

There are also even simpler steps you can take to help you burn fat without having to enter a gym. Correct supplementation can be a make or break when clients want to lose fat and improve their health. I have a great fat-burning stack I recommend to most of my clients. Combining omega 3 fish oil and Carnitine in the morning can help improve insulin health and raise your metabolism.

Omega 3 fish oils give you energy, make you more insulin-sensitive and boost motivation. Carnitine is great as it impacts your muscle cells and how much energy they burn even when you’re sitting down!

Finally, we will take a quick look at the food you eat and how to improve this.

A subject to research more for everyone is The Paleo Diet – a nutrition plan based on the foundation of eating for our genes. The problem with modern foods such as pasta, potatoes and sugary foods is we are unable to tolerate them genetically, causing us to become toxic and hold onto fat no matter how much we exercise.

To kick-start your fat-burning hormones, begin your day with protein. A few scrambled eggs and smoked salmon is perfect.

For further info please contact me Tom Melody at tom@myptplan.com

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GardenStyle sponsored by Bickham House - Providing Quality Care in Later Life

Anne Britt is a garden designer.

For information and classes, contact her at annebritt@btinternet.com

BOUqUETS AND BUTTONHOLES It will soon be the wedding season, when flowers in various guises – from buttonholes to bouquets – can either make or break the whole look of the special day. Butch blokes who wouldn’t normally be seen anywhere near a flower can be seen prancing about like regency dandies adjusting their lapel ‘rose with sprig of fern’. And fathers, who have never given their wives so much as a garage forecourt bunch of wilted chrysanths, are now shelling out for the entire contents of the local florist.

And oh the expense of it all, I hear you say! However, one year an enterprising lady in my gardening class decided to grow her own wedding flowers (with five daughters she had to economise somewhere). She started the year before and, knowing the wedding was to be in June with a yellow and white theme, planned accordingly.

She dug up an existing herbaceous border and planted it with eight yellow Korresia floribunda roses. This is perhaps the best of the yellow repeat flowering short roses and would supply perfectly formed little buttonholes in profusion in June.

For backing foliage she used the pretty crinkled green sprays supplied by a single shrub of Pittosporum tenuifolium, and the rest of the flowers came from a whole assortment of June flowering perennials from the yellow daisies of Anthemis to spiky white Salvias.

Job done.

With two daughters, I inevitably fantasise about how I might dress the church should they ever decide to get married. Churches are often cavernous buildings and therefore difficult to prettify with flowers without breaking the bank.

One solution is to ape our own dear Kate Middleton (as was) and have full-size standard trees in pots marching up the central aisle. Their height and substance draw the eye upwards and fill the open space very effectively, providing a corridor of greenery for the bride to process along.

All the trees should be identical in both type and size and planted in identical pots, ranged in symmetrical pairs down the aisle – your local tree wholesaler will do you a deal for buying eight or more I’m sure. The stark white bark of Betula jaquemontii looks stunning any month of the year, and I would dress the branches with white ribbons to beautify even further.

But what should you do with the trees afterwards, you might ask? Well, I would keep a few back as living keepsakes for the happy couple and their parents to enjoy for years to come, and donate the rest to a grateful local park.

Another tip for making flowers go further, learnt from a top society florist, is to have fewer containers or displays but make them big, full and visible! So in a church setting, rather than dotting flowers about, he would have two absolutely huge flower displays at the front, crammed with flowers and raised on plinths so they are visible from the back.

And on round tables at the reception, he loves the mismatch of using large borrowed vases placed centrally and again crammed with tall flowers and foliage – it’s the generosity of the display that gives the feeling of overall flowery abundance. I can almost hear those bells!

www.bickhamhouse.co.uk | Green Walk, Bowdon, Altrincham WA14 2SN | Tel: 0161 928 2514

Photo by Hayley Baxter www.hayleybaxterphotography.com

Photo by Hayley Baxter

A perfect location for your perfect day

Your wedding

the Eclectic way

make sure your wedding is a day to remember in an Eclectic setting Choosing the perfect place to host your wedding from the myriad of venues now available can be a bewildering experience, even for the most organised of individuals.

Of course there are practicalities to take into account, but a major driver is the desire to host a day that you, your spouse-to-be, family and friends will remember for a long time to come.

Couples often want a venue and location that evokes a sense of place and occasion, with the versatility to allow them to create a space that is truly individual, reflecting their style and personalities. That’s exactly what the boutique collection of Eclectic Hotels has to offer as a potential wedding venue.

Owned and designed by Eamonn and Sally O’Loughlin, Eclectic Hotels boasts four properties within and close to Central Manchester, with a fifth, King Street Townhouse, due to open its doors this summer. Each hotel is individually styled with interiors that both reflect and celebrate the building’s history and its surroundings.

There are a variety of room and terrace combinations for hire that can be tailored to suit individual needs. The south-facing rooftop terrace provides a glamorous setting for the very best of wedding parties, with 30 individually styled bedrooms and suites, Great John Street can meet the needs of both an intimate celebration to a grand affair.

Didsbury House and Eleven Didsbury Park are beautiful Victorian villas situated in Manchester’s cosmopolitan Didsbury area. Rich in history with carefully selected furnishings and decor, Didsbury House provides the perfect venue for marriages and civil ceremonies to take place in the wellappointed Blue Lounge, which exudes character and warmth.

On the 7th offers a less traditional venue. Sleek and chic, it is an exclusive private members lounge at the heart of MediaCityUK. Its riverside location boasts panoramic views across the city.

With no music restrictions and a late licence, On the 7th is the ultimate venue for those looking for a more ‘party’ wedding.

With a total of 27 bedrooms there is plenty of space for the wedding party to stay and enjoy the day and relax at night. Just a short walk away is Eleven Didsbury Park, a 20 bedroom Victorian home from home with a picture-perfect walled garden and covered terrace for an informal and private reception.

Providing a more urban setting is the splendid Great John Street, a converted Victorian school that has been transformed into a luxury townhouse hotel. Tucked away but absolutely in the heart of the city, Great John Street is both old-style charm and elegance.

Find out more by visiting www.eclectichotels.co.uk 44

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www.authentickitchenco.co.uk www .au uthentickitchenco.co.uk

VINTAGE WEDDING FAIR AT VICTOrIA BATHS

Victoria Baths is celebrating the vogue for vintage by holding its first-ever Vintage Wedding Fair on

Sunday 19 April, 11am-4pm.

One of the highlights of the day will be the wedding dresses on display that span the 1930s through to the 1970s, revealing decades of design. Adding their own original ideas will be an assortment of florists, jewellers, stylists, cake-makers and photographers, all on hand to offer expertise.

Drop-in workshops will be running throughout the day, where visitors can discover how to make their own pom-pom garlands and flower crowns.

Victoria Baths is a unique wedding venue, presenting an ornate backdrop of grand Edwardian architecture that features stunning tiles and stained-glass windows.

Live music and refreshments complete the experience.

Entry £4 on the door or £3 in advance. Children free.

For more info or to book visit: www.vintageweddingfair.co.uk.

Or for Victoria Baths info visit: www.victoriabaths.org.uk.

45

WINNER KITCHEN DESIGN OF THE YEAR 2014

As the days grow longer it’s time to plan for the coming year, and time to allow our Award winning designers help you achieve your perfect kitchen. Our new 2015 brochure is ready to download from our website. It is photographed in our customers homes, showing the variety and high standards of our beautiful bespoke kitchens.

If you’d like to know more about how we work take a look at our website, watch our video or call into one of our showrooms to discuss how we can make your kitchen dreams come true.

www.earleandginger.com 680 Wilmslow Road . Didsbury . M20 2DN . Tel: 0161 434 4354 8 Broomfield Lane . Hale . WA15 9AQ . Tel: 0161 222 4040

B E S P O K E D E S I G N , I N S TA L L AT I O N A N D F U L L P R O J E C T M A N A G E M E N T

YOU WE LOVELOVE YOURTO HOMEHELP

Imola chair

It's more than a chair It's a concept

BoConcept is all about making design, furniture and colours come together in your home. Along with our Free Interior Design service we offer a Wish List Service where you can ask your friends and family to contribute to the home of your dreams. Whether you’re getting married or moving into a new home, we’ll be on hand to help.

BoConcept · MM2 Building 109-117 · Great Ancoats Street · M4 5AG · Manchester Tel. 0161 228 7111 · Email. Manchester@boconcept.co.uk · boconcept.co.uk Ask about our Free Interior Design Service

BoConCept InterIors

Kuta floor lamp £299

Expresso cups with saucers.

Collectors item £19

Imola Chair with swivel function – from £1779

Chiva coffee table with storage £799

Nikki Wall, interior designer and BoConcept owner took over the business in 2012, with her husband Tony (who looks after logistics, deliveries and installation). Nikki previously managed the flagship store in London. Nikki and her team’s mantra is to find the best solution for every customer, whatever the budget, size of project or individual customer’s needs.

BoConcept’s origins date back to 1952, when craftsmen and cabinetmakers, Jens Ærthøj and Tage Mølholm, produced their first cabinets made of oak veneer with a mid-section of walnut. With a focus mainly on dining room furniture, the company took its inspiration from the functionalism that swept through Danish design in the 1950s.

Through the decades, the company diversified its range, introducing beds, bookshelves and sofas into its portfolio. Now, BoConcept has more than 260 stores worldwide, which stocks customised, co-ordinated and affordable ranges of home and office furniture, plus rugs, cushions, lamps and other home accessories.

For more information about BoConcept, visit: www.boconcept.com/en-gb 51

Photographer - Stephen McGowan www.stephenmcgowan.co.uk

Catherine Saunders

From marketing to muck “Honest to God, Mum. I’m serious. If I ever start raving on about growing my own vegetables, just take me outside, put a gun to my head and shoot me.”

G

rinning widely, Catherine regales me with this anecdote, explaining how she’d wailed this at her poor old mum way back in 1992, after meeting up with some old marketing pals, who had apparently gone all Monty Don on her. A development she then met with youthful disgust.

And yet, here I am, all these years later, interviewing her as she sits on her kitchen floor in Manchester, up to her elbows in potting compost, sowing herb seeds into trays, BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time on in the background and her latest ‘Grow Your Own Lady Muck Style’ column laying on the table.

So why the change of heart?

Well, for many years, Catherine was a successful Marketing Consultant in London, then Manchester, working with big brands such as Pepsi, Heinz, Guinness and Sony. She worked crazy hours but loved her job and excelled at it. Sadly, it came to an abrupt end when, aged 32, she collapsed in a car park, struck down by Very Severe ME.

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis is a physically disabling illness which, even today, is misunderstood, despite being recognised by the World Health Organization as far back as 1969 as a debilitating neurological disease, alongside MS and Parkinson’s.

“Before I became ill I too used to think ME was just about being tired. How blissfully ignorant I was. For the best part of two years I was a breathing corpse unable to tolerate even a glimmer of light. All I could do was lay in a blackedout room in constant pain, unable to talk or walk. I had to be spoon-fed, watered, washed, dressed and nursed, just like a baby,” explains Catherine.

In the UK alone there are 240,000 ME sufferers, 60,000 of whom are severely affected, bedbound and seemingly invisible.

“

I lost a decade battling this cruel illness, but with help and support from family, friends and a handful of doctors and nurses I have rebuilt my life. Relapse is a constant threat and careful pacing/energy management essential, but I have escaped that blacked-out room. My heart goes out to the many others who have not been so lucky.

”

Recovering from Very Severe ME is a long, complex process and correcting vitamin and mineral deficiencies through nutritional supplements and organic food was a key part of Catherine’s recovery. So when she regained enough strength she decided to see if she could grow some of her own food herself and got hooked.

Catherine adds: “I read everything I could get my hands on but most books and articles on Grow Your Own were quite dull, so I started writing about it myself and created Lady Muck, a character I could identify with, whose allotment antics and growing mishaps I hoped would make food gardening more fun.”

A sassy city career girl turned gorgeous Grow Your Owner, Lady Muck has been entertaining thousands with her humorous columns for several years.

“I love writing my Lady Muck columns.

I just hope that readers of this magazine grow to love her too.” I’m sure we will.

Read our first Grow Your Own Lady Muck Style feature on the next page and follow Lady Muck on Twitter @LadyMuckStyle For more information on Very Severe ME go to www.understandingsevereme.blogspot.co.uk 52

Grow your own

style

Waking up on Monday morning, slumped over your kitchen table, bleary eyed and hung over is never a good start to the week. Throw in one sniggering husband posting the image on Instagram and my shame is complete. Of course, that sniggering husband is completely to blame for my latest disgrace, heading off to Chamonix for his mate’s stag weekend and leaving his good lady wife unsupervised. A recipe for disaster if ever I heard one.

y weekend alone started out innocently enough.

With my trusty iPad for company I turned my attention to the Herb Garden I was planning and got stuck into researching the best herbs to grow here in the north west, when I stumbled upon a site devoted entirely to growing herbs for cocktails. Entirely for cocktails. Now that’s my kind of site.

Before long my plans for a simple kitchen herb garden had morphed into plans for a fully blown cocktail herb bar where I can delight and amaze my friends with rainbow-coloured cocktails infused and garnished with the very herbs and flowers they sit among. And

as we know, any good plan has to be tested. So before dashing off to the garden centre to buy up their pots of herbs, I rang round my girlfriends to see who fancied abandoning their families and joining me for an impromptu herb-testing Happy Hour on Sunday afternoon. Purely for research purposes. Honest.

You see, dear reader, while I have indeed got hooked on ‘grow your own’, I’ve never felt the need to give up my fun-loving personality just because I enjoy growing stuff.

A conviction clearly demonstrated last Sunday. The shaker shook. The herbs muddled. The cocktails flowed.

The Bose boomed. The ladies danced.

The neighbours complained. And let’s just say that come Monday morning Instagram got a real corker of a picture.

So to all you sassy city girls out there who fancy having a go at ‘grow your own’, then welcome, because this new feature is for you, to show that you most definitely don’t have to give up your sense of fun, your style or your vino just because you’re into growing some of your own fruit and vegetables.

And remember, growing your very own cocktail herb bar is a great project and can be as big or as small as you want. If you’re short on space, herbs grow very well in pots, so windowsills and balconies are great spots.

Just add bubbly. Lady Muck Style.

Cocktail herb bar faves

Home-grown cocktail ideas

Growing tips

Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Sweet Sunrise Tequila, sweet vermouth, orange juice, lime juice and sweet basil leaves.

Easy to grow from seed especially if you start off in a Compact Plant Trainer (www.gardening-naturally.com) Grow in a pot in a bright, warm, sheltered spot but out of direct sunlight.

Spearmint (Mentha spicata)

The Lady Champagne, cranberry juice and spearmint leaves.

Best way to help seed germination is to bring your potting compost indoors and allow to warm up for a couple of days before you use. Grow in a pot as it’s invasive. Prefers light shade and a well-drained soil.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender Bellini Prosecco with chilled peach juice, garnished with a single flowering stem of lavender.

Likes free draining soil in a sunny, sheltered position. Does very well in a pot. Small plants readily available from garden centres.

Rosemary (Rosemary officinalis)

Gin Fizz Gin, club soda, honey, lemon and muddled rosemary.

Rosemary seeds are often difficult to germinate, so a plant from a garden centre is a good idea. Likes a sunny spot.

Lemon Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)

Cilantro Cooler Gin, cucumber, lime, ginger ale and muddled coriander leaves.

Coriander can be grown indoors from seed year round as a windowsill herb. Likes a sunny spot and hates being overwatered.

By Catherine Saunders. Follow Lady Muck on Twitter @LadyMuckStyle 53

InterIors

3

1 2 4

All yOU NeeD Is…

lOVe

5

6

express your love around the home

1. Perfect Typography Cushion Made to order and can feature any design. £19.99. KICO Products www.kico-laptrays.co.uk 2. Fairground 'Love Heart' Light £25. Uniche Interior Furnishings www.unicheinteriorfurnishings.co.uk 3. Love Embroidered Hand Towel £20. the Fine Cotton Company www.thefinecottoncompany.com 4. Personalised Enamel Storage Tin £32. Jonny's sister www.jonnyssister.co.uk 5. Personalised Top 20 Chart Print £36. Betsy Benn Designs www.betsybenn.co.uk 6. Valentines Vintage Tattoo Collection includes a striking range of intricately hand-embroidered cushions

by Jan Constantine www.janconstantine.com 54

FrOM LawyEr tO LiFESTyLE Meet the founder of the UK’s largest specialist solicitor consortium and learn how he has swapped law for lifestyle.

Who are you and what do you do?

Martin Cockx. I live in Hale and am married to Vera. We have three sons, Joe, Alex and Daniel. I have recently launched The Hale Plan, a healthy eating concept where all meals are delivered to your door. As well as The Hale Plan, I run Hale Karate Club, something I am also passionate about.

Have you always lived and worked in this area? No. I am originally from Leeds. I attended university here in Manchester and never left! My earlier career was in law, where my firm successfully launched Injury Lawyers4U. I had a very successful career with this business but three years ago decided to sell my share and take early retirement.

How has retirement worked out for you? It hasn’t! Since my teens I have enjoyed karate, finding it to be great for physical fitness but also for stimulating the mind.

After my ‘retirement’ I launched Hale Karate Club, something I am very proud of. However, I still found that I had time for something more; 18 months ago while training in the USA I discovered an eating programme that totally changed my life.

So, what did this programme do for you? It not only meant that I lost weight but that I had so much more energy and zest for life. I just loved it!

This diet excluded gluten, sugar and dairy products. Upon my return I really struggled to create such meals.

I discussed this all at great length with David Vanderhook, who has cooked for families such as the Aga Khan and the Rothschild family, catering for very specific needs.

To summarise, we have spent the past 12 months crafting The Hale Plan to what you see today.

Tell us a bit more about The Hale Plan The Hale Plan provides you with three balanced meals each day and snacks, providing everything you need for six days every week. The meals are delivered to your house twice a week.

Believe me, we have researched and tested this over many months and the results from this lifestyle change are incredible. It is not a diet but a healthier approach to eating that will undoubtedly mean you will lose weight, but more importantly, you will get back that feelgood factor, establishing better eating patterns for the future.

Looking ahead – where do you see yourself in five years’ time? Not retiring again, that’s for sure! I feel fitter and stronger now than I did ten or perhaps even 15 years ago. I am looking forward to repeating the success of my legal career with this new venture. If in doing so it changes some people’s lives for the better, that can only be a good thing.

www.thehaleplan.co.uk | www.halekarateclub.co.uk 55

SASSOON if you’re looking at shedding a few pounds after the New year or increase lean muscle mass, one thing needs to be present in your fitness regime and that’s resistance training. However, the type of resistance training you undertake will determine the success of your efforts.

When Vidal Sassoon opened his first salon at 108 Bond Street, London, he heralded a brand that went on to revolutionise the world of hair. Vidal was the first hairdresser to understand that hair was ‘material in motion’ – a moving mass that worked within the confines of the face, complementing its natural bone structure. His attention to cut, colour and suitability became the hallmark of the Sassoon look - superbly designed haute couture hair.

Today, the Sassoon name remains synonymous with hair excellence - that’s because a Sassoon cut and colour is instantly recognizable – a masterpiece of intelligent hairdressing combining honed technique and fashion focus.

UK Creative Director, Bruce Masefield says: “The difference is in the detail - Vidal’s legacy of unstinting attention to hair perfection keeps us at the forefront of hair design today.”

Sassoon are renowned for expertise in cut and colour, but we are also masters of finish.

The new Blow & Style menu of salon services is no quick-blow

bar fix. Our expertly trained team can now offer blow-drying and styling services designed to either subtly enhance or totally transform your own hair look.

Choose from an extensive blow-dry menu that ranges from Signature Sassoon, straight and sleek, the VIP gloss of the Voluminous, to the relaxed and easy elegance of the Dishevelled.

If you opt for the Beach, the result will be a head of natural tousled waves; if you prefer a more defined curl, try the Curly Wave.

Our style menu taps into the editorial styling of catwalk hair with a selection of versatile braids, waves and ponies for mid-length and longer hair.

The undone fishtail Braid adds a touch of youthful insouciance; the polished gloss of the Sleek Pony speaks executive chic, and the Dressed Wave is perfect finishing detail for your own premium red carpet look.

Visit your nearest Sassoon salon and we guarantee you’ll be blown away.

This is Sassoon.

This is hair design.

Sassoon Salon 1 Marsden Street, Manchester M2 1HW Phone: 0161 827 7140 56

Multi-joint exercises such as squats, deadlifts and bench presses have a greater calorie-burning effect compared to that of single-joint exercises such as bicep curls or leg extensions. The heightened calorie expenditure during these multi-joint exercises doesn’t just occur while exercising but continues for up to 48 hours afterwards.

In part, this is due to the body consuming oxygen and fuel at a higher rate to return your body back to its pre-exercise state.

Stressing the body’s larger muscle groups through multi-joint resistance training along with a sensible diet and adequate rest are essential factors in increasing muscular growth and initiating fat loss in women. A major reason for women avoiding resistance training is the misconception that they will get too muscular; however, average muscle gain for women is only about 0.5 to 1 pound a month. Resistance training, when done correctly, will transform your physique, increase strength and improve your posture as well as help to prevent the onset of osteoporosis.

Here at Virgin Active Didsbury, we’re creating a gamechanging new club following our £1.3million investment programme. As well as existing luxuries like red-hot classes, awesome innovations and heated pools, we’re now starting to offer a range of fantastic, fresh facilities to offer you a whole new level of refinement. With our innovative gym floors, upgraded lounge facilities and spruced-up studios, we are doing everything we can to make sure you put some more wow into your workout.

So why not work up a sweat in style with our newly refurbished studio and gym floor spaces. All fully refreshed and featuring the finest equipment, we’ll make sure you have the determination to get the most out of your workout.

For more information about incorporating resistance training into your workout, get in touch! You’ll experience a health club that’s actively different from all the rest. You’ll be encouraged, inspired, and made to feel right at home.

Article written by Gary Moore, Personal Trainer – Virgin Active Didsbury

Pop in, visit our website

(www.virginactive.co.uk) or call 0161 249 5600.

HeALtH & BeAUtY

Winning naturally with

Julie neville With love in the air and Valentine’s Day approaching, I thought I would do a love super Juice.

• Half a pineapple • Handful of raspberries • Handful of strawberries • Handful of blueberries Juice the pineapple then pour into the blender. Blend with the berries and some ice.

It is impossible to talk about Valentine’s Day without mentioning chocolate.

Chocolate is actually a super food. It is produced from the beans of the cacao tree and it has been enjoyed for over 5,000 years.

Chocolate is rich in plant sterols and many types of flavonoids. These plant pigments are responsible for the health benefits of many fruits and plants.

Many people think chocolate is a junk food, but the only harmful effects come from the commercial processing and refining techniques. Cocoa beans in their natural raw and organic state are actually rich in nutrients and extremely beneficial to health.

Studies have shown that chocolate may be effective in preventing heart disease.

It does not elevate cholesterol levels, and may actually inhibit the absorption of cholesterol. Also, its antioxidants may protect the lining of the arteries and prevent blood clots, and it can regulate blood pressure and blood flow.

If you want all these benefits, then you need to steer away from the commercial chocolate bars in the supermarket and head for the real high-cocoa-content dark chocolate. 70% cocoa or higher is the very best.

Milk and white chocolate have virtually none of these benefits, plus commercial chocolate bars are loaded with extra sugar, fat, waxes and chemicals that you most certainly do not want to be adding to your diet.

Remember – the more processed it is, the more beneficial flavonoids that are lost.

This juice is packed with vitamins C and E, calcium, iron, sodium, zinc, potassium, fibre, amino acids and folic acid. The berries are rich in zinc – the love-making mineral!

Also beware that cheap brands often replace the cocoa butter with milk fats and hydrogenated oils. It is the cocoa butter that contains the oleic acid, which is a heart-healthy fat.

Not only is this juice super simple – it really is delicious too.

So choose carefully and you really can eat chocolate guilt-free!

Eight positive points about cocoa beans: 1. Contain more antioxidants than green tea, blueberries and red wine 2. Promote cardiovascular health, reduce blood clotting and promote circulation 3. Lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack 4. Help repair and resist damage from free radicals 5. Promote positive outlook and make us feel good due to the increase in neurotransmitters in the brain 6. Help reduce PMS 7. Are rich in essential minerals such as magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, potassium and manganese 8. Contain the essential healthy fats that help to lower cholesterol and reduce appetite

As for my tips for some lovely super healthy Valentine’s gifts, this Pukka Love Tea is simply divine – a blend of rose, chamomile, elderflower and lavender.

HEaLTHy GiFTS

The fabulous Gnaw Love Bars really do taste as good as they look. Which lady wouldn’t be charmed by these!

T: 0333 7000 018 (available in store hours)

WinNaturally has got bigger, brighter, better and moved to our new and improved store at First Floor, Halle Square, Arndale, Manchester, M4 3AB 57

t East Celebrates it’s first birthday in March and we would like you to join in the celebrations.

For a COMPLIMENTARY Cut&Finish (you read that correctly!) during the first week of March, call macleodbradley East now on 0161 706 0020 Limited availability. (t&c apply)

“…not just hairdressers, we make people feel good about themselves” macleodbradley East | macleodbradley.co.uk 835 Wilmslow Road | Didsbury | Manchester | M20 5WD

0161 706 0020

stry

Are you suffering with…

back ache, shoulder pain, headaches, fatigue...

We offer all readers a Free 15 minute consultation, home visits avaliable on request

The Proactive Physiotherapy Clinic 90a Barlow Moor Road, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2PN

T: 0161 438 0851 | www.oneproactivephysio.com

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0161 980 2626

24 Hours | 7 Days “peace of mind for you and your family, at all times”

58

Clarivu and Optegra are registered trademarks used with permission

The alternative to laser eye surgery

“My vision is now better than 20/20, I feel younger and more confident.”

Ruth Langsford, T V presenter

Book your free Clarivu consultation: 0808 231 4225 or visit optegra.com/clarivu Clarivu is the Optegra brand name for its individually tailored, consultant-led vision correction (or Refractive Lens Exchange – RLE) package. RLE is a proven and permanent lens replacement procedure that could eliminate or reduce your dependence on glasses as well as remove cataracts. The package means you pay one single price for the consultation, procedure, aftercare and lenses – no matter what your prescription.

Finalist

Finalist Dedicated eye hospitals, personalised care

Time to see clearly?

Is now the time to turn your life – and image – around?

You may naturally be starting to think about what you want to achieve, or changes you want to make, this year. For many, there is a great desire to no longer wear glasses, both to change their look, and to avoid the daily hassle of life with spectacles or contact lenses.

One such person was TV presenter Ruth Langsford, who described her life with glasses and contacts as irritating and frustrating.

She took the step to do something about it. She has had her sight restored and no longer needs to use glasses or contact lenses thanks to Clarivu™ (Refractive Lens Exchange), from the eye health care experts at Optegra. Ruth describes the Clarivu experience as ‘liberating and life-changing’ and urges people to look into the procedure which also prevents or removes cataracts.

Was your New Year’s resolution to see more clearly?

This is what Ruth had to say:

“

People watching me on TV didn’t realise I was struggling with glasses Life before the surgery was particularly difficult at work if I had to switch from reading the autocue or interviewing guests to checking facts on my notes.

I would need to have my glasses to hand at all times, to put them on to read my notes and then take them off again to speak to the guest.

The thought of life without glasses and contact lenses was hugely appealing I’d worn contact lenses for about a year and a half when I heard about Clarivu. I liked the sound of the chance of life without glasses or contact lenses and thought “that’s for me”.

I was in journalistic mode when I went to see my Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Optegra. I wanted to know all the facts so I asked loads and loads of questions. Eyes are so precious and you do wonder “what if something goes wrong?” My consultant was fantastic and went through everything in detail.

Optegra’s specialist eye hospitals provide 5-star patient satisfaction through consultant-led expert teams dedicated only to eye care

The first thing he did was to explain why my eyes were like they were due to the ageing process. He said Clarivu would make a difference to my life, and he also explained the upside is that I will never get cataracts.

He said that Clarivu is an advanced form of cataract surgery, which is a commonly performed procedure every single day at hospitals all around the world which made me feel even more comfortable.

I really had no pain from start to finish The procedure itself took 15 minutes per eye in two separate sessions.

You don’t see anything that’s going on as you’re staring into a very bright light.

You’re obviously aware that something is being done but I genuinely, genuinely didn’t feel any pain. I didn’t once wince like you sometimes do at the dentist.

Clarivu really is life-changing Afterwards I was offered tea and biscuits – when I picked up the pack I saw the word ‘Shortcake’. I nearly cried! I couldn’t believe it. I thought I had imagined seeing it and kept picking things up to read.

Now I don’t have to carry the paraphernalia of glasses, reading glasses, driving glasses, prescription sunglasses and contact lenses – and I feel younger and more confident.

If you are considering updating your look in 2015 - and more importantly, your vision - I would say “Go for it!”

”

Book your free consultation, visit optegra.com for more information or freephone 0808 231 4225.

UPPER LIMB SURGICAL SPECIALISTS

Len Funk Consultant Shoulder Surgeon T. 01625 545 071

Mike Hayton Consultant Hand & Wrist Specialist T. 0845 838 7766

sporting As part of a healthy lifestyle, the positive impact of sport and exercise is well evidenced. In addition to assisting in the prevention of chronic disease, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and hypertension in adults, studies have shown that it helps healthy development in children.

Given these benefits, OrthTeam had no hesitation when asked to give support to the mini and junior sections of local sports team Bowdon Rugby Union Football Club. The club was seeking to provide a unified sponsor for the five junior and six mini teams, so that any of the 400 children attending the club can feel they were all part of the same squad. Judging by the pictures below, the children are very happy with their new OrthTeam-sponsored rugby kit.

CY Ng Consultant Hand & Peripheral Nerve Surgeon T. 0161 495 7766

Photographs courtesy of Si Kelly Photography

Nick Phillips Consultant Shoulder & Elbow Surgeon T. 0161 495 7745

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Matt Ravenscroft Consultant Shoulder & Elbow Surgeon T. 0161 495 6803

Adam Watts Consultant Elbow, Hand & Upper Limb Surgeon T. 01625 545 073

Bowdon RUFC Under 6 squad

Members of the U6 squad

Members of the Under 10’s squad, ready to scrum down

Bowdon RUFC was established in 1877. The children’s section was established in 2006, with 33 children playing and ten coaches in attendance; the numbers have now increased to 400 children and 55 coaches in total. In addition to the junior teams, the club boasts four senior sides, all competing in structured leagues, with the 1st XV playing in South Lancs/Cheshire Division 1. Facilities at the club include the Marquee room and the Committee room – both of which are available for private hire. www.bowdonrufc.com

Clinical expertise for amateur and elite sportspeople OrthTeam’s interest in providing clinical advice for sportsmen and sportswomen is the result of many years of specialist training and research in this area.

Understanding the needs of sportspeople and researching how best to effect a fast return to the field has gained them a reputation as expert providers for amateurs and professionals alike.

OrthTeam provide orthopaedic advice and care for a number of elite teams, including Premiership and Championship football teams, Premiership Rugby Union teams, Super League Rugby League teams, County Cricket teams, Olympic athletes and English Institute of Sport squads – including cycling, boxing and taekwondo.

In addition to treating sport-injury problems, OrthTeam consultants treat a wide range of common upper and lower limb problems, eg. those associated with arthritis or other chronic conditions.

OrthTeam are a group of 12 superspecialist consultants who are highly experienced in the care and surgical management of people with orthopaedic problems associated with the shoulder, hand and arm, hip, knee, foot and ankle. The consultants’ superspecialist status has been gained as a result of intensive training and clinical experience in specialist Centres of Excellence both in the UK and abroad.

It is rewarded by invitations to speak at international conferences and requests to treat elite athletes from a spectrum

LOWER LIMB SURGICAL SPECIALISTS

interest

Sanjay Anand Consultant Knee Surgeon T. 0161 495 6803

Team-working Treating sport injuries requires a team approach – from the clinical team and, in the case of elite athletes, the club coaches and trainers.

OrthTeam work with physiotherapists and sports and exercise doctors across the region, and provide training events and case conferences, so that the whole team work together to achieve the outcomes expected by the sportsperson.

In some instances ‘Superclinics’ are held. The Superclinic concept is based on the ‘Grand Round’ medical education system used in America and provides the opportunity for challenge, debate and discussion among a team of expert medical and special-interest surgical consultants, and rehabilitation sports injury experts – with, of course, vital input from the athlete and their clinical representative.

of different sports. OrthTeam consultants treat a wide range of upper and lower limb problems, including those associated with long-term wear (eg. arthritis) and short-term acute sports-related injury.

Tel: 0800 328 2975 Fax: 0161 667 4499 Emergency: 07732 247 247 Email: info@orthteam.com www.orthteam.com Twitter: @OrthT

Tim Board Consultant Hip & Knee Surgeon T. 07713 451339

Jon Borrill Consultant Knee Surgeon T. 0161 495 7726

Tim Clough Consultant Foot & Ankle Surgeon T. 0161 495 7028

Adam Hoad-Reddick Consultant Hip & Knee Surgeon T. 0161 904 0434

Philip Turner Consultant Knee Surgeon T. 0161 495 6869 63

4 24 hrs a day 4 7 days a week 4 Personal and confidential

The Private GP & Night Doctor Service 4 Covering Hale, Wilmslow, Didsbury and their surrounding areas 4 Night and weekend home visits

“peace of mind for you and your family, at all times”

4 Early or late same day appointments

• Registration fee from £15 per month plus consultation fees • You can remain with your NHS GP • Additional surgery in Hale opening soon Dr Bruce Jobling

If this service is of interest to you or your family, please contact us to register.

T: 0161 980 2626 | Info@ThePrivateGP.co.uk | www.NightDoctor.co.uk The Surgery, 96 Church Road, Gatley, Cheshire, SK8 4NQ

If you have a Knee problem, consult one of the UK’s leading Knee Specialists Consultations now available at 52 Alderley Road

Skiing Injury? For quick effective treatment contact the kneedoc... it’s all you need to know.

The Knee Doc Consultant:

Treatments available:

• US and UK trained Consultant Knee and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Surgeon who has worked with NBA and NFL teams

• Bespoke Personalised Knee Replacement Surgery

• Professor Faculty of Engineering, Science and Sports, University of Bolton • Honorary clinical lecturer at the University of Manchester • International and national speaker on knee problems and sports injuries • Treats international, professional, elite sportspeople and weekend warriors playing many different sports

• Arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery • Ligament reconstruction (anterior cruciate ligament, ACL) • Minimally Invasive Personalised Knee Replacement Surgery - which can allow you to leave hospital rapidly, often within 2-3 days and the surgery is designed specifically to your knee using the latest cutting edge technological innovations • State of the art Arthritis treatments available.

• Team Surgeon for GB Olympic Wrestling Team • Sports Medicine Consultant for 2002 commonwealth games.

The Knee Doc... it’s all you need to know Consultations available at: • BMI Alexandra Hospital Cheadle • Bridgewater Hospital Manchester • Ramsay Oaklands Hospital Salford

Contact details: For further information or to book a consultation:

• Telephone: 0161 445 4988

• Spire Hospital Manchester

• Web: www.thekneedoc.co.uk

• Spire Hale Clinic

• Email: claire@thekneedoc.co.uk

Professor Sanjiv Jari, Consultant Knee, Lower Limb & Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Surgeon

DO I NeeD BACK sUrGery? with Brian Todd & Vik Kapoor Consultant Spinal Surgeons Manchester Orthopaedic Group

Brian Todd

Severe low back pain If you developed severe chest or abdominal pain, you would seek medical advice as it could be something serious. However a first episode of severe low back pain, even if it is overwhelming and goes on for days and days, can signify very little. No impending disaster or terrible injury, just pain, and in most cases it goes away on its own.

Most people will want to know what is happening and have questions such as ‘When will it go away?’ or ‘How can I stop it happening again?’ and seek advice from their general practitioner, a physiotherapist or an osteopath.

There is no need to see a spinal surgeon at this stage.

These healthcare professionals are trained to identify symptoms and signs that may signify a more severe problem and need urgent investigation and treatment. However, most cases are simple, and what’s best is reassurance, painkillers and anti-inflammatory

Vik Kapoor

medications with advice and help, sometimes with manipulative treatment, to get moving again as quickly as possible.

goes into the lower leg and foot with tingling or numbness, this is true sciatica and probably means you have a nerve problem.

Almost everyone will experience an episode of acute low back pain at some point in their life. However, if the problem keeps returning, you might wish to consult a spine surgeon (an orthopaedic spine surgeon or neurosurgeon who specialises in spine surgery). In most cases, it’s advisable to discuss this with your general practitioner first.

The commonest cause is a slipped disc pressing on a sciatic nerve root in the spine. Again, advice from a healthcare professional is the best first step, but if it persists, people are likely to be referred for a scan and to a surgeon.

Sciatica Some people with back pain also experience pain in their leg. This is often vague and has an aching quality similar to the back pain and may be what is known as a referred pain, occurring because of the way our nervous systems are wired.

However, if the pain is different to the backache, an electric shock, or burning, or it is tight like an elastic band and

Claudication Older people are prone to develop this.

They get a pain in their legs when they walk. The legs can feel heavy or seize up altogether. Sometimes, claudication is due to a restriction in blood supply to the legs and the sufferer often simply stops walking, waits for the circulation to recover and then continues.

Those with the spinal variety almost always have to sit down to get relief.

The cause is usually a narrowing of the spinal canal due to degenerative changes, and such people are often referred to a spine surgeon.

Find out more about our spinal surgeons on our website www.manchesterorthopaedicgroup.co.uk 66

The following Surgeons are members of Manchester Orthopaedic Group:

Spinal Surgeons Vik Kapoor – MBBS MS(Orth) FRCS(Tr&Orth) Spinal Surgery

Mike O’Connor – MB ChB FRCS(Tr&Orth) Hip & Knee Replacements, Arthroscopy & Trauma

I’ve been referred to a spine surgeon by my general practitioner. What should I expect?

Brian David Todd – MB ChB FRCS(Orth) Spinal Surgery

The news that you may need spinal surgery can create many emotions -hope that you may get pain relief at last, fear about surgery and complications, and confusion about what to do next. Don't be afraid to ask your general practitioner if they would let that spine surgeon operate on one of their own family members.

At the Manchester Orthopaedic Group we are fully trained spinal surgeons, and treating spinal conditions is our only area of practice in the NHS and private sector.

Upper Limb Surgeons Jochen Fischer – MD FRCS (Tr&Orth) All aspects of shoulder, elbow, wrist & hand surgery including arthroscopy, arthroplasty and trauma

Arun Kumar – FRCS(Tr & Orth), Dip Sports & Exercise Medicine, FRCS, MSc (Trauma), MS Orth Lower limb surgery, Hip and Knee replacement, Sports Injury, Arthroscopic Surgery of Hip & Knee

Be well prepared for your consultation When you're in pain, it can be difficult to describe your situation to the doctor in a concise and accurate manner.

Meeting a spine surgeon can also be intimidating. Writing down your questions in advance can help.

Be prepared to discuss your medical history, details about your pain and your expectations about potential surgery and likely results.

The first task of a spine surgeon making an accurate diagnosis Identifying the cause of pain is different from finding out what is anatomically wrong with the spine. You may have a slipped disc on an MRI scan, but if that isn’t the cause of the pain, then surgery for it will not help. Scans tend to show lots of different changes, and for a surgeon the person’s complaint, their physical examination findings and the scan appearances all have to fit a specific diagnosis before surgery is considered. The most common cause of continuing pain following surgery is an improper diagnosis prior to the operation.

Steve Royle – MB ChB MD FRCS(Orth) Hand, wrist & elbow surgery, including fractures, soft tissue & sports injuries Mohammad Waseem – BSc MB ChB FRCS(Tr&Orth) Comprehensive Upper Limb & Trauma.

Hand, Wrist, Elbow & Shoulder.

Mark Webber – BSc, MB ChB, FRCS Arthroscopic Procedures to Upper Limb Lower Limb Surgeons David Bamford – MB,ChB,FRCS,FRCS(Orth) Total Hip Replacement, Revision Hip Surgery & Hip Arthroscopy, Total Knee Replacement & Knee Arthroscopy

Steven Kershaw – MB ChB(Manc) FRCS(Eng) FRCS(Tr&Orth) Primary hip & knee replacements, knee arthroscopy, foot & ankle surgery & trauma Simon Ghalayini – MB ChB FRCS(Tr&Orth) Lower limb surgery including Hip & Knee Replacement and Arthroscopy of the Knee Sanat Shah – MB BS MS(Orth) MCh, FRCS(Orth) Hip & Knee Replacement, Revision, Re-surfacing, Arthroscopy & Trauma Tahir Mahmud – BSc(Hons), MBBS, FRCS(Tr&Orth) Lower limb surgery including Hip & Knee Replacement, Knee Arthroscopy & Trauma

Richard Samarji – MCh FRCSEd FRCS(Orth) Foot, Ankle, Knee, Trauma, Sports injury & Hand Surgery

Amer Shoaib – BSc(Hons) LMSSA FRCS(Orth) Specialist Foot & Ankle Assessment & Treatment, Limb Deformities & Trauma

Pankaj Sharma – MBBS FRCS(Orth) Knee Replacement, ACL Reconstruction & Arthroscopy, Sports Injury & Trauma

www.manchesterorthopaedicgroup.co.uk

Simon Reuben – MB ChB FRCS(Tr&Orth) Hip & Knee Surgery, Trauma David Johnson – BSc(Hons) MB ChB FRCS(Tr&Orth) MPhil Knee Replacement, ACL Reconstruction & Arthroscopy, Sports Injury & Trauma

Manchester Orthopaedic Group Manor Lodge, Mill Lane, Cheadle, Cheshire SK8 2NT Tel: 0845 437 9663 Tel: 0161 495 7783 Fax: 0161 610 1755 Email: info@manchesterorthopaedicgroup.co.uk 67

CoMpetItIon

win a Fantastic Cinema and Meal Deal To celebrate the launch of our new website www.salutions.co.uk (go have a look, feedback welcome) we’ve teamed up with Grosvenor Casino Didsbury.

Twenty lucky readers will win a two-course meal for two plus a pair of tickets to see any movie of their choice at Cineworld Didsbury.

Grosvenor Casino Didsbury is more than just a casino; it’s the perfect destination whatever the occasion and the jewel in the crown of the Parrs Wood Entertainment Centre.

Grosvenor Casino Didsbury bills itself as a luxury gaming, dining and cocktail venue that delivers on all fronts.

It presents superb entertainment every weekend from the likes of Heatwave and Jaki Graham, top-class tributes and performances by stars of The Voice and The X Factor.

Winners will win a two-course meal for two plus a pair of tickets to see any movie of their choice at Cineworld Didsbury.

To enter simply answer the following question.

In the Taken films, Liam Neeson plays which character?

A. Bryan Robson

B. Mills & Boon C. Bryan Mills

Now email your answer to: winner@salutions.co.uk with Taken in the subject field or go online www.salutions.co.uk Closing date is 28 February 2015. For full terms and conditions visit www.salutions.co.uk.

Don’t forget you can get a two-course meal at Grosvenor G Casino Didsbury, plus a cinema ticket for Cineworld for only £12.95 every Thursday and Sunday.

For more information please call Jonasz on 0161 669 7165.

Grosvenor Casino Didsbury, Parrs Wood Entertainment Centre, Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, Manchester M20 5PG Over-18s only. Photo ID is required, gambleaware.co.uk. drinkaware.co.uk

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table for two...

...with Phil wood, at Mr Cooper’s House and Garden restaurant If ‘put some more Wood on the wireless’ dislodges a neuron or two of memory for you, then you’ll already be familiar with my guest, Phil Wood. He was one of the original stars of Manchester’s Piccadilly Radio, considered to be the best of the independent radio stations that started broadcasting in 1974. It’s impossible to overstate Piccadilly’s reach and impact on the city, due in no small part to Phil’s hugely popular shows. I met up with Phil at Simon Rogan’s Mr Cooper’s House and Garden Restaurant at the Midland Hotel for a shameless wallow in analogue heaven!

Fernando and Marie were our gracious hosts and, as I dived into Phil’s past, they presented us with a fabulously rich dish of pan-fried chicken livers with hyssop.

Phil spent his formative years in Swinton and gravitated towards Manchester’s burgeoning advertising scene of the late 1960s. While employed by a number of agencies in the city he simultaneously worked as one of the early mobile disc jockeys. He loved his weekend job and secured his first club gig at Brown’s School of Dancing in Moston after stepping into the breach when the regular DJ fell ill. His innate ability was developed and polished over the following years as his weekend DJ-ing flourished.

However, all that changed in 1974 when Phil responded to an advert in the Manchester Evening News. A new radio station was recruiting, and with encouragement from one of his club employers, Phil sent in a demo tape.

The forbidding figure of programme controller Colin Walters recognised the potential of Phil’s likeable bluff and on-air charisma, and so six weeks after the station commenced broadcasting, Phil Wood spoke his first words on air.

After rapid promotion to the flagship breakfast show, our lives were never the same again! After all, who at that time did not have a Piccadilly 261 sticker in their bedroom window?

As Phil tucked into his citrus-brined sea bass and I into my delicious pork loin with a sage crust, we shared our respective perspectives of that era.

He’s refreshingly humble about his own contribution to Piccadilly’s enormous success and its significant contribution to Manchester’s rich cultural heritage.

Conversely, he’s extremely generous in his praise of the many other talented presenters who passed through its studios. Chris Evans, Mark Radcliffe and Steve Penk are but a few of his peers who were discovered by the station.

His four-decade-spanning career has provided him with many opportunities and rewarding memories. He’s met and interviewed a veritable who’s who of the entertainment world and even hosted a post-transmission party for the Eurovision Song Contest, which was relayed to 22 countries.

It’s clear why he’s endured and had such success: he really does like speaking to people and has a gift for making them laugh and feel at ease. There’s not a hint of ‘celebrity’ about him, and yet for many Mancunians his shows were the most talked and laughed about.

Phil’s now gone back to his roots and is providing a 21st-century mobile DJ service for a variety of events. His many gifts are well suited for hosting the perfect party or corporate function and he’s sure to make it a great experience.

The wireless may be long gone, but thankfully there’s still more Wood to be put on!

Phil Wood can be found at philwoodroadshows.co.uk Our thanks for the gracious hospitality of Mr Cooper’s House and Garden, by Simon Rogan, at the Midland Hotel.

For information and reservations visit: info@mrcoopershouseandgarden.co.uk @mrcoopershouse 0161 932 4128 The Midland Hotel, Peter Street Manchester M60 2DS

By Mark Kureishy 69

B

uilding on last season’s success on the pitch, Manchester City has continued to set the pace off the pitch with its latest hospitality offering –

The Platinum Experience Box.

The Platinum Experience Box offers a once in a lifetime experience for fans or businesses alike. The box and your day can be tailored to your needs – making it the bespoke hospitality space at the Etihad Stadium.

There’s also the opportunity to head down to pitch-side and watch the Champions’ warm up from where Manuel Pellegrini usually watches the game.

The space allows customers to project their own personality into the space by decorating and branding the room as they choose.

The experience has apparently already proved popular with a number of businesses that have taken advantage of the bespoke offering to offer their own branded experience in the box.

Throughout the evening our every whim was catered for by the fantastic hostesses. With our own private balcony and seating it truly is a VIP football experience to remember.

First team player and England midfielder, James Milner, visiting guests after the match

After watching the players arrive at a recent Premier League game, we were whisked up to the private box where we enjoyed a stunning meal prepared by Fabulous Fan Fayre.

The Platinum Experience offers a series of ‘once in a lifetime’ matchday moments. We were visited by a number of City Legends who talked to us about the game and their careers.

If you’re interested in having your own VIP experience in the Platinum Experience Box, contact the Manchester City Hospitality Team on 0161 444 1894 or email uniqueexperiences@mcfc.co.uk

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a restaurant with real

GUstO In my opinion, how a restaurant makes you feel when you walk in is more than half the appeal of the place.

Walking into the new Gusto restaurant in the city centre had me at the first hello. It’s like stepping back into fashionable Paris or Milan in the 1920s. It’s beautiful.

First impressions are excellent and just what the city centre needs in contrast to all the shiny glass and chrome. The restaurant is awash with dark wood panels, low lighting, leather booths and a well-stocked bar in the middle of the room. An artist is carefully painting a fresco in the corner, which appears to mix fine Italian art and Manchester’s finest scenes together.

Smartly dressed waiters are buzzing around and we are shown to our well-dressed table near the window.

As a resident of Withington, I’m more than familiar with our local Gusto.

It’s our go-to restaurant of choice when the in-laws come to visit and I don’t even need to look at the menu.

Here I wanted to try something new, although we did start with our familyfavourite garlic tomato bread, which is one food item I think I could live on for the rest of my days. We also shared a nice crisp calamari, always a sign of a good restaurant, I think. Served with a zingy lemon mayo it was delicious.

For main courses my other half went for the cod wrapped in prosciutto ham on a bed of spiced lentils. For review purposes I tried this and had immediate food envy. The ham was just salty enough and the lentils had such a kick, this dish was so well balanced. I’m a pasta fiend and went for spaghetti with king prawns and lobster in a light tomato sauce. It was good and the pasta perfect, but I did wish I had gone for the cod. Next time.

The dessert menus came, and much as it pains me I always try one, for review purposes. Sadly, they had sold out of the sweet vanilla risotto, which sounded amazing. I went for the Bombolini instead. This is a bowl of sweet little doughnuts you dunk into a rich, runny chocolate sauce, which I promptly spilt down my top. Ah well, it was ever so tasty. My other half had the pistachio and chocolate Eton mess. This was a bit sweet for my palate but there was none left on her plate and she didn’t speak for the four minutes it took to eat it.

All in all, this place is simply excellent, the food, the service, but more than anything, the environment. I would come here with work colleagues, friends, family and even on my own.

It’s beautiful. Try it.

By Helen Lawson

diNiNG GuidE iBÉriCa sPINNINGFIelDs OPeNING IN MArCH

Award-winning Spanish restaurant Ibérica will be opening its first restaurant outside London on Wednesday, March 4th, bringing authentic Spanish cuisine to Manchester’s Spinningfields.

The restaurant design evokes the same authentic Spanish environment that Ibérica’s current portfolio is famed for, and the fusion of traditional elements, such as mantón de Manila (Spanish silk shawls), with the contemporary glass façade will provide a setting worthy of its cuisine. Externally, two impressive terraces will bring the atmosphere of Madrid’s famous terrace culture to Manchester.

Ibérica’s Executive Head Chef, Nacho Manzano, who has an impressive three Michelin stars to his name, has developed an à la carte menu that will offer guests a real insight into authentic Spanish gastronomy.

Alongside the established menu of tapas, there is a selection of larger dishes, such as traditionally made paella and Asturian cachopo, Ibérico pork and Asturian cheeses. These dishes highlight Ibérica’s ongoing commitment to offering an authentic Spanish experience.

www.ibericarestaurants.com The Avenue | Spinningfields | Manchester M3 3HF | Tel: 0207 6368 650 iberica.restaurants @IbericaLondon 72

THE BOTaNiST AlDerley eDGe

The Botanist on London Road, Alderley Edge is a concept unlike anything else, offering a soon-to-be-world-famous selection of botanical cocktails, craft beers, ales, champagne and wine, with food from the deli, rotisserie and barbecue.

Choose from a mouthwatering selection of starters, including Pan-Fried Garlic Mushrooms, Home-made Scotch Egg with Piccalilli or classic Moules marinieres, and mains of traditional home comforts (think Pie and Mash and Fish and Chips) all prepared with a Botanist twist and of course our famous Hanging Kebabs – served with our legendary seasoned fries! The Botanist also offers a delicious Sunday Roast – either roast beef or rotisserie chicken with a giant Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings. With live music every night, and an inside walled garden, sublime social times are guaranteed! www.thebotanist.uk.com 15 London Road | Alderley Edge | Cheshire SK9 7JT | Tel: 01625 865 637 thebotanist @TheBotanistAE

EVuNa Manchester

A busy restaurant on a wet Thursday night in January is always a sign of popularity. Evuna, in the trendy Northern Quarter, was packed!

Despite being rushed off his feet, the waiter was friendly and attentive and really couldn’t have done more for us.

With an obvious sense of pride, he went through the menu and gave his recommendations. We were not disappointed, the tapas was incredible.

My partner went for Jabugo Iberico Black foot pig, the Filetitos (chilli fillet steak, which I would happily have eaten a full-sized portion of), and the Gambas with garlic and chilli. I chose the Albondigas (meatballs with wine and tomato sauce), Chorizo in red wine, and much to my partner’s disappointment – the chips! All delightful! Washed down with the waiter’s choice of red wine, the meal left us full, happy and ready to go back and try what we couldn’t possibly have fitted in!

Evuna has a sister restaurant on Deansgate and are opening in Hale. www.evuna.com 79 Thomas Street | Northern Quarter M4 1LQ | Tel: 0161 833 1130 E:

enquiries@evuna.com @evunamanchester

To get your business featured call Michelle or Joanne on 0161 445 2883 or email info@salutions.co.uk

dining guide SOuTHeRn eLeVen Manchester

neigHbOuRHOOd eaTeRy and baR Manchester

A New York eatery and bar inspired by Manhattan’s definitive neighbourhoods is honing its unique take on casual fine dining, luxury ingredients and industrial chic aesthetics on Spinningfield’s The Avenue North. The team at Neighbourhood Eatery and Bar have produced a Manhattan execution of international cuisine. Neighbourhood's flavours and ingredients are determined by the borough's diverse gastronomic experience and distinct European flourish. Brunch, lunch and dinner are served daily, and there is an impressive cocktail, champagne and wine selection.

The restaurant also offers a unique Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea with the choice of traditional sandwiches and cakes or Neighbourhood favourites, including mini-burgers, hot dogs and lobster tacos. The venue is dressed to a standard suitable for the Hatter himself, with giant teacups, grassy tables and playing cards. Open from noon seven days a week.

Head to Southern Eleven, Manchester’s original American barbecue restaurant, for home-comfort favourites straight from the Eleven Southern States. These include hickory-smoked pulled pork, beef brisket, fried chicken, baby back and belly ribs – all slow-cooked in their Oklahoman wood-burning ovens and served with a selection of home-made barbecue sauces and sides. If you’re feeling particularly hungry, Tuesday is the day for you – all-you-can-eat chicken and ribs are served from noon until 10pm for only £14.95 per person, including one free bottle of beer in the offer. Open from noon seven days a week. www.southern11.co.uk 3 Hardman Street | Spinningfields | Manchester | M3 3EB | Tel: 0161 843 0482 southerneleven @southerneleven

www.neighbourhoodrestaurant.co.uk The Avenue North | Spinningfields | Manchester | M3 3BT | Tel: 0161 832 6334 neighbourhoodrestaurant @neighbourhood4

FaZenda Manchester

Story has it that since the early 19th century, gauchos have pierced large pieces of meat and slowly grilled them over open-flamed pits not too dissimilar from a scene from Blazing Saddles.

Today in Spinningfields, Fazenda has opened a huge, lavish restaurant, which aims to keep this age-old tradition alive.

It features 15 prime cuts of the finest meats, including chicken, beef, pork and lamb. If you like your meat, this is for you.

However, whatever you choose, save room for the signature ‘Picanha’, which really does melt in the mouth.

Popular in the churrascarias of southern Brazil, Picanha is precision-carved by the Fazenda chefs, just as the gaucho chefs have been doing for hundreds of years. A superb wine list, excellent salad bar and dessert menu make this a complete dining experience.

www.fazenda.co.uk The Avenue | Spinningfields | Manchester M3 3AP | Tel: 0161 834 1219 fazendamanchester @fazendamanc

To get your business featured call Michelle or Joanne on 0161 445 2883 or email info@salutions.co.uk

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Lunch and Early Bird Menu

Didsbury Espresso lunch menu £7.95 Any Pizza or Soup and a Drink*

Wishing all our customers a Happy New Year!

We look forward to seeing you soon

The Grange makes the grade again!

The 2014 national school’s A level performance tables produced by the Department for Education made great reading for The Grange School.

The Grange Class of 2014’s results placed the school in 59th place of all schools nationally, making it fourth in the whole of the North of England and top in Cheshire. The availability of national added value data this year helped to amplify this success story, showing just how well the school is able to get the best out of its pupils; the added value score was better than any equivalent school and college in the region.

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Headmaster Chris Jeffery said: “It is always good to get affirmation of the standards our young people reach in relation to their peers nationally and to know that The Grange continues to punch well above its weight as one of the country’s very best schools. What is even more pleasing is to have recognition of the value that the rounded education we provide is adding to the lives of individuals.”

EDUCATION NEWS

for parents!

a Revision guide –

The internet is awash with revision advice for stressed students at this time of year, but what about parents?

How can we best manage the carrot-and-stick balance while maintaining our own sanity?

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Recognise this is genuinely a very stressful time for students. This is particularly so for those who are working really hard, and often for those who know they should be, but aren’t!

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Know your son or daughter’s exam timetable. Put a copy up at home, make sure the dates are in your diary, and identify the times when they are likely to need the most revision support from you.

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Help them to get a decent night’s sleep. Clean bedding, new pillows and tidy bedrooms all help to make going to bed at a reasonable time more appealing. While late-night cramming can seem like a good short-term solution, the long-term effects of sleep deprivation can be damaging to overall performance.

Accept that listening to music can aid concentration. You may need silence, but your children probably don’t. Actually, encouraging them to get up and dance to a favourite track can be a great way to reinvigorate them. Get them to make a revision playlist of their favourite tracks so they don’t waste time selecting single tracks, but have a ready-prepared playlist that can run for a couple of hours.

Try not to nag. They do all know the importance of revision and exams; they don’t need you to keep pointing out how much they still have to do. It doesn’t help and often ends up elevating stress levels for everyone in the family.

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Encourage your sons and daughters to leave their phones in another room while revising.

Most teenagers find it impossible to avoid checking their phone every few minutes, and this is probably the single greatest distraction from revision they have to deal with; help them to manage this – sit down and discuss the benefits together.

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Get them into the fresh air whenever you can. They’ll get freaked out if you insist on lengthy family outings, but quick bursts of activity are very helpful – so a quick walk to the local shops or just 20 minutes in the garden can be the best options.

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Get involved. Offer to test them.

This can be a great way of offering your support in a practical way.

Praise them for what they get right and never criticise them for what they don’t – testing is diagnostic, and needs to feel positive to be effective.

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Go out! Leave them alone for a while. Some parents think they have to be there all the time to ‘crack the revision whip’, but parents need a break too. Your children will appreciate having the house to themselves, and feel that you are trusting them, which is always a good thing.

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Agree on rewards/targets/treats.

Whatever reward your child is working towards – festival tickets, post-A level adult-free holidays, family trips, or just a restful summer – get involved with planning the ‘end point’. Yes, it’s all about getting the best exam results they can, but it’s the fun stuff that will be the biggest motivator. Perhaps have your own post-revision treat booked too!

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Learn to step back. Helicopter parents radiate stress; stay calm and your children (and you) will get through May and June much more easily and successfully.

Good luck!

Sally Petrie, Assistant Head – Cheadle Hulme School 75

STOCKPORT GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOUNDED IN 1487

An independent school for girls and boys from 3-18 years Bursaries available at 11+ and 16+

Junior School Open Morning Saturday 9th May 2015 Saturda 10am - 12pm Come and spend a day in the Senior School Year Y ear 5 T Taster Days 15th M May, 20th May or 12th June To To book boo call 0161 419 2408 School day tours also available

IIns Inspiring your Child In Tel: 0161 456 9000 76

www.stockp w.stockpor portgrammar.co.uk r.co.uk

EDUCATION NEWS

MGS LAUNCHES QUINCENTENARY CELEBRATIONS AT MANCHESTER TOWN HALL Sir Howard Bernstein, Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, hosted The Manchester Grammar School (MGS) at Manchester Town Hall to celebrate the start of the school’s quincentenary year. To mark the world-famous establishment’s 500-year anniversary, the city’s top business people, dignitaries and MGS supporters gathered for the invite-only reception.

A special calendar of events has been planned to take place throughout the year to celebrate reaching the remarkable 500-year milestone. The events, from cultural and sporting events, to business-led seminars, will involve the whole school, Old Mancunians, friends of the school and representatives from the wider community in Manchester.

Maurice Watkins CBE, MGS Chairman of Governors, and Dr Martin Boulton, MGS High Master, welcomed the guests, who included former pupils, known as Old Mancunians.

Dr Boulton said: “As one of the city’s oldest institutions it is a great honour for us to launch our quincentenary year at the Town Hall, which has been the heart of political life in Manchester since 1877. We are proud of our heritage as an integral part of this great city and we would like to take this opportunity to thank all our benefactors, from our founder Hugh Oldham to those who are helping us today, to ensure that access to MGS is determined by academic ability and not the ability to pay fees.”

Two weeks ago the school hosted one of its celebratory Business Class seminars, welcoming former Dragon and eminent UK entrepreneur Theo Paphitis to speak to an audience of pupils and business leaders. This series of events will take place throughout the year and will see other leading business professionals share their stories with the Manchester business community. Future guests will include Urban Splash's Tom Bloxham CBE, former Manchester United CEO David Gill, and Michael Morley, CEO of Coutts & Co. As part of the celebrations, MGS has also launched The Next 500 Appeal. The Next 500 Appeal aims to raise £10million to provide more means-tested bursary places for deserving pupils. The school already has one of the largest bursary programmes in the country and has the ultimate aim of providing a needs-blind education based on academic potential rather than family income.

To date the Next 500 Appeal has attracted donations and support from MGS alumni, regional supporters and more.

A full list can be viewed here: www.mgsglobal.org/the-next-500-donors

Photo captions Top: Maurice Watkins, Chairman of governors at Manchester Grammar School; Dr Martin Boulton, High Master of The Manchester Grammar School; and Sir Howard Bernstein, Chief Executive of Manchester City Council.

Right: William Lees-Jones, MD of JW Lees. Left: Tom Bloxham MBE, Chairman of Urban Splash.

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A lively love of learning from age four Our Preparatory Department is an active and happy place to learn, where girls from four to 11 years of age enjoy every aspect of our school life.

We are holding an Open Morning on 20th March 2015 between 10am – 12.00.

Visit our extended facilities and speak to sta about the opportunities available for your daughter.

For more information, please call our Registrar on 0161 224 0447 or to receive a prospectus visit www.manchesterhigh.co.uk/welcome Manchester High School for Girls Grangethorpe Road Manchester M14 6HS www.manchesterhigh.co.uk Twitter: @mhsg facebook.com/ManHighSG Charity registration no: 532295

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!"#$%&'("#)*#+$,+&--&+$./'01+$2("113 A true adventure for boys with enquiring minds Visit us and find out what makes us special

matters For further information contact Kath Heathcote 0161 224 7201 ext 234 or k.heathcote@mgs.org

MGS.org @MGSmagic

EDUCATION NEWS

Pupils rescue ambitions of terminally ill teacher Former assistant head and year six teacher at St Bede’s College, Kate Steele, had a lifelong ambition to write a children’s book.

Kate, also known as Cath, was diagnosed with cancer in 2008 and it was during her treatment and with a wish to leave a lasting legacy for her grandchildren that the idea for her book was born. She began writing the ‘Pop’ series, based on her husband - the children’s grandfather, Martin Steele.

When Kate’s former pupils at St Bede’s College learned she had become too ill to draw the illustrations, they stepped in to help, creating pictures of cats, birds and dogs in rivers along with Pop himself.

Kate lost her battle with cancer in April 2013 but her family decided to pursue the idea of publishing the Pop stories.

With the help of their neighbour and former radio and TV presenter Susie Mathis, they put the four stories together in one book, called Pop Goes to the Rescue, which was published last year. Now Pop Goes to the Rescue is being sold in St Bede’s College and all proceeds are being donated to the Kirsty Appeal to raise funds for Francis House Children’s Hospice in Didsbury.

Claire Hunt, Head of Prep at St Bede’s College, said: “Kate was a wonderful teacher and a much-loved member of staff. When our pupils heard about the stories, we were inundated with offers of help to illustrate them.”

The book is also available, priced £6.99, from www.thekirstyclub.com

DANIELLA’S LEGACY LIVES ON AT MANCHESTER HIGH hospital or convalescing at home, and was on a punishing regime of drugs that wiped out her immune system. This resulted in her asthma becoming ever more brittle and unpredictable.

The Manchester High School for Girls community has been remembering its much-valued and very talented member, Daniella Sciama from Hale, who sadly passed away suddenly in December 2013, aged 18. As part of the School’s recent annual Speech Night celebrations held at the Bridgewater Hall, the Daniella Sciama Award for outstanding achievement was presented in her honour.

Daniella’s family sponsored and attended the ceremony. Daniella’s mother, Mrs Michelle Sciama, said: “Daniella had been incredibly poorly for a long while. She spent large periods of time away from school, either in

“The extraordinary thing about Daniella was her sheer determination and force of nature, and the grace and dignity with which she faced every challenge that was thrown her way. But when it came to the Manchester High Speech Night ceremony, Daniella said: ‘I'm not going mummy, I just can't. I'm just going to have to sit and watch while everyone else goes up and receives an award that I never had a chance to try and win.’

“When Daniella passed, I came into her school to discuss a fitting way to honour Daniella and all she had stood for. We resolved to make sure that no other young lady in Daniella’s situation would ever feel like she did, or go unrecognised and unacknowledged

for the extraordinary results they achieve in the face of challenges and adversity. The Daniella Sciama Award for Outstanding Achievement has been the result of this, and now, thanks to the exceptional love and care of staff at Manchester High School for Girls, Daniella's award will be presented in her honour at the School’s Speech Night every year in perpetuity.”

Daniella’s family have also funded the refurbishment of the School’s library quadrangle as a learning garden in memory of their daughter, who loved to read; but as Mrs Sciama added, she loved to chat even more. Both the School and the family agreed it was a fitting tribute to Daniella to create a space outside the library where pupils can go and study and spend time together.

A memorial service to celebrate Daniella’s life was held in the garden last summer.

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“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire�

Wiliam Butler Yeats

To arrange a tour call 0161 224 1077 Wellington Road, Fallowfield, Manchester M14 6BL

wgs.org

Means -tested bursaries now available from Year 5 upwards

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END OF YEAR TAX-PLANNING TIPS USE IT OR LOSE IT! Make the most of your allowances for 2014/2015.

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You can put up to £40K into your pension (or start a new one), for the tax year of 2014/15.

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Use your NISA allowance of £15K.

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You may gift up to £6,000 from capital, without any liability of inheritance tax.

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Utilise your capital gains tax allowance of £11K.

PENSIONS, PENSIONS, PENSIONS PENSIONS: Everyone aged 55 and over will have total control over how they take their pension from 6 April 2015, making pensions one of the most flexible and tax-efficient ways to save for your future.

But what are your options until then?

If you are 60 or over, and your pension pot does not exceed £30K, there are special, flexible rules that apply to you.

If you need to access your pension now, choose a flexible option so you can decide what to do with the rest of your pension pot after 6 April 2015.

You should delay making any decisions until the new tax year, so that you have time to consider all options and benefits from full flexibility then.

ANNUITIES: If you are buying an annuity to guarantee a fixed income for life, it is important to ensure you research the whole market for the best rates. It is possible get enhanced rates, subject to health/lifestyle.

CHANGES IN LEGISLATION There have been huge changes in legislation, which could have altered the effectiveness of any financial strategy you may have in place.

It is important to understand what they mean to you and what actions may be required.

The value of investments can go down as well as up. Past performance is no indicator of future returns.

This article is correct when going to press and does not constitute advice. Kellands (Hale) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. It is your responsibility to ensure you keep up with the monthly payments on your mortgage, otherwise your home may be at risk.

Many people have no idea what pension provision they have, often forgetting about historic plans. Even if you are not quite ready to retire, it is important to understand what income you might be able to generate from your existing pensions and to consider if this is enough to fulfil all your aspirations in your retirement.

The earlier you plan, the better your chances of rectifying any shortfall.

Kellands Chartered Financial Planners provides a full advisory service for private and corporate clients on pensions, tax planning, investments and mortgages. Please call the team for further information.

Kellands (Hale) Limited.

24 Victoria Road, Hale, Altrincham WA15 9AD

0161 929 8838 hale@kelland.co.uk www.kelland-hale.co.uk

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Delivering the dream The success of Cheshire-based Robot Duck Design has meant the company recently fulfilled a promise it made back in 2011 when the business was formed – to create a free website each year for a local charity.

“

Part of our philosophy was to give something back to the community as soon as we were established,

In not only a crowded market, but also during one of the worst recessions to hit the UK, Sophie puts Robot Duck’s success down to their belief in never tying those they work with down.

Sophie Rogers, Robot Duck’s Creative Director, tells us.

“We empower our clients to take full control of their brands,” she says.

“If they stay, it’s always out of choice because they enjoy working in partnership with us, not because they’re forced to. “This was something my business partner and Technical Director Tim Parker felt very strongly about when we set up the company.

”

“I had my heart set on donating our first website to The Society For Abandoned Animals, in Sale, where I volunteered every weekend while at school.”

“We take a consultancy approach as opposed to being a regular agency. For every client, we take time to learn not only about their organisation, but also their competitors. It’s our charity outreach combined with our client liaison that really makes us stand out from the crowd.”

Robot Duck is a boutique consultancy.

Their ethos of offering high-quality, bespoke design and technical services, all at a fair price and without invisible add-ons, has built them a following of loyal clients.

“We love the diversity of the range of creations we have been commissioned to deliver so far – we tell clients: Whatever your dream, we can create it.”

And all at Robot Duck love the fact their name intrigues people. “We rebranded recently and the team all felt it suited us perfectly,” explains Tim. “It combines our sense of fun and draws on the three key elements at the heart of our company: design, tech and its ethical philosophy.”

“It’s great working for ourselves,” he says. “It enables me to create unique concepts as an OpenSource WordPress and Joomla! Developer; this also helps other technical engineers who utilise these platforms.”

Although Robot Duck Design are based in Knutsford, they have clients from all over the world. Sophie recently returned from Australia, where she delivered a web solution for the University of Western Australia’s International Centre for Radio Astrophysics.

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TheBusiness Vikas Shah is an entrepreneur who started his first business almost 20 years ago.

He is an adviser to businesses around the world, President of a leading entrepreneur’s network, and Visiting Professor of Entrepreneurship on one of the world’s most prestigious MBA programmes.

Got a question? Email: vikas.shah@thoughtstrategy.com www.thoughtstrategy.com

How does one become a good networker? Any tips?

person you are trying to target can help you pick which network to be a part of.

Networking has become a pseudo-fourletter-word for most businesses. If you dip your toe into the business-events calendar for Manchester alone, you could quickly fill your entire diary every day with events of all descriptions.

Successful networkers are not the ones who attend everything and collect tree-loads of business cards – they are the ones who understand the basic steps:

3. Be a human being, not a salesperson

1. Know what you want out of networking Are you looking at building new business? Generate advocates and contacts? Increase your personal visibility in the business community?

Find a partner for your product or service? You need to be really clear from the start on what you want to gain.

2. Know who you are looking for Most business networks tailor to niches; this might be entrepreneurs (TiE), company leaders (IoD), professional services individuals (Pro.Manchester, JCI) or otherwise. Knowing the type of

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Networking is about people. The individuals I know who do this best are the ones who invest the time and energy to build and develop relationships outside the event. Follow up, arrange a meeting, and connect on LinkedIn! At the core of this is also understanding your own strengths and weaknesses.

4. Invest!

You don’t get anything for nothing.

To get the most out of networks, you have to be part of the conversation; that means investing time to be an active and visible participant. There are no prizes for being on the periphery.

How do I protect my business with trademarks and patents?

Without exception, every business has some form of intellectual property.

This could be your brand name (or some other visual), or even the specifics of how you make your product, deliver your service and more.

People often ask ‘why’ to protect their business in this way. Regardless of the size of your enterprise, registering your claim over what is unique to you can not only be good business practice (and show you’re a diligent leader!), but can add real value to your company should you wish to raise money or sell.

I have been involved in transactions where protected IP has added significant value to companies at sale or acquisition, and others where a lack of registered IP has caused the deal to collapse.

In my experience, the vast majority of law firms work in this area, and regardless of the size of your firm, it’s a great first step to have an informal chat with your legal professional to help you understand this complex but important area.

I have seen many entrepreneurs go ‘solo’ with this, and waste time and money registering the wrong thing in the wrong place, or worse - getting into expensive battles with other firms.

By using the right legal professional, the process can be really painless and actually quite inexpensive.

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COMING SOON St Petersburg Symphony Orchestra

Alexander Dmitriev conductor | Alexander Sitkovetsky violin Freddy Kempf piano | Natalie Clein cello Monday 23 February 7.30pm Sibelius Karelia Suite | Beethoven Triple Concerto Rachmaninov Symphony No.2 in E minor

Jonathan Scott: British Inspiration Wednesday 4 March 1.10pm This year’s organ series begins with a celebration of British composers, people, places and events.

The Silver Donkey

A musical tale of bravery, war & love Sunday 8 March 3.00pm A family performance based on the WW1 novel by Sonya Hartnett.

Sarah Connolly mezzo soprano Eugene Asti piano

Tuesday 24 March 7.30pm Sarah Connolly is one of the most renowned mezzo sopranos of her generation. This varied programme demonstrates the many colours and expressive nuances of her wonderful voice.

Box Office: 0161 907 9000 bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Twistedgifted, Manchester based design agency. eST 1999.

This is what we do... Design for digital and print: logos and branding, advertising to marketing, social media to websites, photography to the printed word. We work with Publishing, PR and Marketing - agencies and in-house departments, from Blue Chip to Start-ups, in both Public and Private sectors.

Our way is relaxed and informal, but we do adopt best business practice throughout...

You could say we're a bit retro nowadays – we still use pencils with rubbers on the top like the designers back in the day. We own boxes of crayons and are pretty good at painting by numbers. We like to think we're team players. Say hello - we'd love the opportunity to come on board...

Testimonial “Having worked with Paul and TwistedGifted for over 10 years, on a huge array of British Government supported projects, from single page promotional flyers through to 160+ brochures, Paul never fails to impress, his work is always delivered on time and within budget. We would most certainly recommend Paul and TwistedGifted and I am happy to speak to any interested parties. You’ll struggle to find a better designer.”

Managing Director IMA Limited

Design since 1999

creative@twistedgifted.co.uk www.twistedgifted.co.uk MANCHESTER

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Ever Fallen In Love... ...Sexy Beast, 2000 Directed by Jonathan Glazer Ray Winstone, Ben Kingsley, Amanda Redman and Ian McShane

The blistering sun beats down on the heavily oiled figure of Gal (Winstone) as he lies by an azure swimming pool. His voiceover declares that life is fantastic as the Stranglers’ ‘Peaches’ plays in the background, but high above the pool, a huge boulder – disturbed by forces unseen – begins its menacing trundle down the steep hillside. Paradise is spoiled as the boulder bounces over his head and splashes into the pool. The immovable rock settles on the shattered tiles and, clearly, the portents for Gal are not good.

Gal is an ex-gangster from London, enjoying a luxurious life in Spain’s sun-drenched hinterland. His wife, Dee Dee (Redman), and his friends Aitch and Jackie, who also have vaguely nefarious backgrounds, share this shadowy life under the full glare of the sun. Also present is a young Spanish pool boy who takes care of errands and seems to have a strong and affectionate bond with Gal. Out of the dark past comes the figure of Don Logan (Kingsley) and the peace is well and truly shattered. He has been despatched by Gal’s former crime boss, Teddy Bass (McShane), to enlist him for the robbery of a private bank vault. Bass had learned of this vault from Harry, the bank’s owner, when they had met at a bisexual orgy; he needs Gal for this job and won’t take no for an answer.

From the moment Logan appears, characters and viewers alike are on edge. He is a violent psychopath who will not tolerate dissent. Gal, though, is reluctant to come out of ‘retirement’ and declines the offer, which sends Logan into a spiral of ever-increasing evil. His verbal and physical outbursts are shocking; one incident, in Gal’s bathroom, is particularly unforgettable!

Despite Logan’s terrifying pressure, Gal remains steadfast, so a furious Logan leaves for the airport. However, his uncontrollable rage results in him being off-loaded from the plane after his refusal to extinguish his cigarette. His inevitable and ominous return to the villa at night increases the tension – something will have to give. Logan’s fate is inextricably sealed to the swimming pool, and so too is Gal’s future existence.

His reluctant return to the London underworld of his past and the subsequent bank job is menacingly thrilling. We sympathise with him as he desperately tries to conceal Logan’s fate from the truly sinister and murderous Bass. Gal’s safe return sees him sitting with his friends around the swimming pool and, as the pool boy hovers nearby, they all gaze silently at the newly repaired tiles at the bottom of the pool.

Winstone – for once, not the hardest man present – is great, but Kingsley’s Oscar-nominated performance is revelatory; it’s hard to believe that this is the same man who brought the sainted Gandhi to life!

Written by Didsbury resident Jenny Wynne.

Ever Fallen In Love (With Something) and want to tell the world about it? Tell us, in 450 words, about a book, film, music or any piece of popular culture and we’ll help you spread the word. Email mark@salutions.co.uk 89

Reviews IIIII

By John Waddington

MUSIC The Charlatans – Modern Nature After the tragic death of their drummer Jon Brookes in 2013, The Charlatans bounce back once again with what is one of their finest albums. The band have had their fair share of knocks over the years, but like an old sweater they remain solid and dependable. Their newly acquired laid-back vibes befit a band who are slipping into middle age.

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds Chasing Yesterday

Belle & Sebastian Girls In Peacetime Want To Dance

In case you were still missing the secondbest band in Britpop, Noel Gallagher returns with his High Flying Birds for another album of rockers that could have been picked up from the cutting room floor at an aborted Oasis session.

All very familiar sounding, but the man still has an ear for one heck of a catchy tune.

Wistful Scottish pop is the order of the day on Belle & Sebastian’s ninth album, with the addition of some nice subtle string arrangements and glorious 60s-tinged vocal harmonies.

There may be nothing on here to rival classics such as The Boy with the Arab Strap, but it’s all solid singalong stuff.

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FILMS Heart Of The Sea – Director: Ron Howard

Chris Hemsworth stars in the astonishing true story of the 19th-century mariners who faced the might of Moby Dick, when 21 men set out on an ill-fated expedition aboard the New England whaling ship, Essex. Adapted from Nathaniel Philbrick’s bestseller, this epic, exhilarating survival drama reunites Oscar-winning director Ron Howard with his ‘Rush’ star Chris Hemsworth.

The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water – Director: Paul Tibbitt Everyone’s favourite yellow aquatic sponge returns in a new adventure!

Dastardly pirate Burger-Beard (Antonio Banderas) seeks the last page of a magical book, which will make all his evil plans come true. To save their world, SpongeBob and his gang wreak comedy havoc in the realm of the humans.

Mad Max: Fury Road – Director: George Miller Writer/director George Miller revives the Mad Max series after 30 years with this hyperkinetic chase movie, in which Tom Hardy plays the iconic Road Warrior. In a stark and parched post-apocalyptic landscape, taciturn anti-hero Max Rockatansky meets his shaven-headed female counterpart Imperator Furiosa. She needs to cross the desert to get home.

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BOOKS

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Nadia Hashimi – The Pearl That Broke Its Shell Afghan-American Nadia Hashimi’s literary debut novel is a searing tale of powerlessness, fate, and the freedom to control one’s own destiny that beautifully combines cultural flavour and emotional resonance. Crisscrossing in time, The Pearl That Broke Its Shell interweaves the tales of two women separated by a century but sharing similar destinies.

Anne Tyler – A Spool of Blue Thread Brimming with all the insight, humour and generosity of spirit that are the hallmarks of Anne Tyler’s work, A Spool of Blue Thread tells a poignant yet unsentimental story in praise of family in all its emotional complexity. A modern family saga that radiates truth, this is a novel to cherish.

Scott Blackwood – See How Small A curious kitchen-sink dystopian drama, with a plot that slightly echoes Cormac McCarthy’s The Road, Find Me, Laura van den Berg’s first novel after some short story collections.It’s a promising debut with well-drawn, sympathetic characters, but feels a little far-fetched at times.

By Fay Wertheimer 2015 Photographer Jo Kaberry

Hannah Byrnes Devotee of Rowling, Tolkien and CS Lewis, employment lawyer Hannah Byrnes had never aspired to writing. Even last April, the notion of penning a book and actually publishing it was inconceivable. Hannah, a multifaceted triathlete, horse-lover, musician, childhood telly extra and former disability worker just half her story! - was too busy scripting amateur-drama plays. Then in May came her inspiration, not for the spoken word but for this book, the tale she simply had to tell.

Luckily, these themes really resonated with my teenage test-readers.”

By August, Hannah was rattling off 2,000 words a night after a day’s work. By December, she’d wrapped up her fourth rewrite.

Despite the occasional writer’s block, she’s relished every moment.

Byrnes’ characters mirror her fervour, quest for truth and fight for justice.

She explains: “The complete story came to me in a series of dreams. I wrote the ending first and let everything else slot into place. ‘The Dragon Children: The Prophecy’ is about self-discovery and gaining balance to follow your heart and be yourself.

According to horror, sci-fi fan and self-avowed ‘dragon-nut’ Byrnes, dragons are man’s last connection to the realm of magic. The story tells of how they possess the wisdom of the stars, which two chosen children in every generation disseminate to mankind. Gentle Kai and fiery Irish Romany Bridget, each bearing a star-shaped birthmark, are summoned with their parents to Zomak, the capital of Dragonreach.

The children must guard the last dragon eggs on earth.

When the Iron Queen strikes, the children are separated and the dragon eggs lost. Only if 11year-old Kai and Bridget are reunited, if the eggs are found and if the Imperial City’s eternal fire is restored, can the prophecy be fulfilled and faith in magic sustained.

Assisted by fellow employment lawyer and illustrator Helen Leighs, and Phoenix-based editor Christina Wilson, Hannah materialised her dream.

She muses on her diverse occupations:

“It’s like having two brains. The law is by definition logic-driven and formulaic. Answers are set. Beneath the wig and gown, I’m my clients’ voice piece. The facts and cases are their stories. But fiction writing is personal. Every character and thought is my own. I’m exposed on the page.

This project edged me through a difficult year. I’ve grown, learned and made friendships. I’d love my book to mean something to others, too.”

Writing is her passion not her career.

All book sales will benefit Make-A-Wish Foundation UK, a charity close to Hannah’s heart, which took her disabled Levenshulme High School chum with Hannah in tow to Take That in 1994.

Buy ‘The Dragon Children: The Prophecy’ online at www.hannahbyrnes.co.uk £5.99 paperback, £3.99 Kindle

Book launch: Wednesday 18 February 2015 at 12.30pm @Pendulum Hotel: www.pendulumhotel.co.uk Make-A-Wish Foundation UK, www.make-a-wish.org.uk, UK Charity Registration Nos. 295672/SC037479 91

By Catherine Reed

IIIII

What’s

ON

Don’t forget it’s Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day soon so check out the theatres and concert halls to see what might make the perfect gift for mum or a sweetheart. There are some obvious choices such as Russell Watson, Top Hat and Oklahoma, but visit venue and gallery websites to see what other gigs, comedy shows or exhibitions might offer a fun or unusual surprise.

BRB First Steps: A Child’s Coppelia

Manchester Irish Festival

The Lowry Friday 6 March Birmingham Royal Ballet’s introduction to ballet has been specially adapted for children aged 3 to 7 years. This hour-long interactive programme features a storyteller who sets the scene, introduces the children to the music and characters, and shares some of the technical magic surrounding the staging of this fun tale.

Various 6–20 March This year’s Irish Festival features events such as The Script at Manchester Arena on 6 March, Dylan Moran at The Lowry and St Patrick’s Day Parade on 15 March, and numerous musical, dance and community events across the city.

The Lowry Sunday 22 March A rare opportunity to see ‘The Voice’ in an intimate setting such as The Lowry. Russell is officially the UK’s bestselling classical artist ever and has won four Classical BRITS.

MuSiCaLS Lion King Room on the Broom The Lowry 7–12 April Climb aboard Tall Stories' magical musical stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s and Axel Scheffler’s marvellous children’s book Room on the Broom, providing songs, laughs and scary fun for all the family.

CHiLdRen & FaMiLy SHOwS I Believe in Unicorns The Lowry 19–22 February I Believe in Unicorns is a spellbinding and moving story, from the book by Michael Morpurgo (author of War Horse). Adapted by Daniel Jamieson and presented by Theatre Alibi, who last worked with Michael Morpurgo on the West End hit Why the Whales Came, this is a wonderful show for all the family to enjoy.

The Chuckle Brothers Stockport Plaza Sunday 22 February Dorothy, The Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and the Scarecrow join the Wizards (Paul and Barry) for this sensational new version of the familiar Wizard of Oz story for all ages.

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Russell Watson

exHibiTiOnS & SpeCiaL eVenTS Casa Tomada The Lowry Until 26 April For this astonishing exhibition a thousand giant ants, handmade by Colombian artist Rafael Gómezbarros, swarm over The Lowry's Promenade space and congregate in all its corners.

Luke Jermay: Sixth Sense Aldridge Studio, The Lowry Sunday 1 March Luke Jermay: Mentalist, Magician and Writer - You’ll be amazed at Jermay’s incredible powers; he knows your past, present and future sometimes better than you do in an expert display of telepathy and personal predictions about your future.

Palace Theatre Until 22 February Disney’s Lion King continues its successful run at the Palace as Simba’s epic adventures are brought to life on stage with a fabulously talented cast using masks, puppets and striking costumes.

Top Hat Opera House 10–21 February An uplifting, romantic and funny musical that brings to live the Golden Age of Hollywood with stunning choreography, beautiful costumes and a story that moves along at a fast pace from one glorious scene to another.

With three Olivier awards under its belt this show is definitely one not to miss.

Oh What a Lovely War! Opera House 24–28 February Joan Littlewood’s legendary musical has been revived to commemorate the anniversary of the First World War. Starring Wendi Peters and Ian Reddington, the show is a riot of music and colour and features some of the greatest songs from that period such as ‘Pack up Your Troubles’ and ‘It’s A Long Way to Tipperary’.

Blood Brothers

Opera

Drama

Palace Theatre 2–14 March The legendary musical Blood Brothers returns to The Palace with a wonderful cast including multiplatinum-selling artist Marti Pellow reprising his role as Narrator, and critically acclaimed Maureen Nolan returning to her role as Mrs Johnstone. It’s a superb musical always guaranteed to bring a tear to the eye and the audience to its feet.

Opera North – Marriage of Figaro

Scuttlers

The Lowry 10 and 14 March Mozart’s effervescent comedy is one of the best-loved operas of all time. Brought alive by the acclaimed director of Opera North’s five-star-rated Ruddigore and Carousel, this new production of this sublime masterpiece is simply not to be missed. Opera North also stage one of the most popular operas of all time, Verdi’s profoundly moving La traviata, on 13 and 15 March.

Royal Exchange Theatre Until 7 March It's 1885 and the streets of Manchester are crackling with energy, youth and violence. As workers pour into Ancoats to power the Industrial Revolution, 50,000 people are crammed into one square mile. Rona Munro’s new play is inspired by the Manchester riots of 2011 and the stories of all the Manchester gangs between the 19th century and today.

Ellen Kent’s Rigoletto

Anna Karenina

Singalonga Sound of Music Opera House Sunday 15 March A screening of the classic Julie Andrews film where the audience take centre stage and dress up in costume, win prizes and of course sing along to the well-known soundtrack. For those of you who like your Sound of Music a little more traditional, you should make a note that Sound of Music will be this year’s Christmas show at The Lowry from 14 December to 2 January – check The Lowry website for details.

Opera House Sunday 15 March Opera International’s Rigoletto is a stunning traditional production recapturing the decadence of Renaiisance Italy with lavish sets and opulent costumes. Ellen’s operas are always a spectacle and this one is no exception, with a Golden Eagle and two greyhounds also promised on stage. Opera-lovers can also catch the company’s Madama Butterfly on Sunday 22 March.

The Producers Palace Theatre 16–21 March Jason Manford stars as Leo Bloom in the return of this smash-hit musical comedy that tells the story of how, in Hollywood, you may set out to produce the worst show ever but you could end up with a runaway hit on your hands. Based on the Academy Award-winning movie this terrific show has won an amazing 12 Tonys and three Oliviers.

Oklahoma!

The Lowry 17–21 March This is a spectacular revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic musical that is filled with brilliant songs, plenty of humour and an evergreen story of the pioneering spirit and love’s ability to conquer all. Gary Wilmott stars alongside a superb cast in a production from the same company that brought sell-out shows The King and I and Fiddler on the Roof to The Lowry.

Royal Exchange Theatre 19 March – 2 May Olivier-nominated director Ellen McDougall makes her Royal Exchange debut with this stripped-back and contemporary version of one of the greatest novels ever written.

Twelve Angry Men The Lowry 23–28 March Starring Tom Conti, this powerful new production of Reginald Rose’s gripping courtroom thriller Twelve Angry Men comes to The Lowry following a record-breaking West End run, bringing to the stage the taut brilliance of the 1957 three-time Academy Award-nominated film.

Calamity Jane Palace Theatre 24–28 March The Watermill Theatre’s brand-new production of Calamity Jane stars musical favourite Jodie Prenger alongside a cast of multitalented actor/musicians.

The King’s Speech Opera House 30 March – 4 April Jason Donovan stars as speech therapist Lionel Logue and Raymond Coulthard stars as King George VI in this true and heartwarming story about one man’s struggle to overcome his disability and to deliver the inspirational and now iconic speech in his country’s darkest hour.

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Gadgets

The gadget landscape is starting to heat up for this year. With a plethora of audiovisual treats, there should be something for everyone this month.

s Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5

With a solid-feeling body construction, diminutive size and consistency of performance, the 16-megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 could become a back-pocket-staple for many an amateur snapper. The smaller dimensions mean you can take it out more often than a DSLR with equivalent lens, which proves the point for mirrorless small-format cameras. £769, jessops.com

t Veho Muvi K-Series K2 The Muvi K2 is definitely bulkier than many of its rivals but it looks great and the extra weight adds to its robust feel. Image quality isn’t quite on a par with the GoPro, but a bit of experimentation can lead to some very impressive-looking results. It’s certainly worth consideration if you’re in the market for a solid action cam, especially one that’s waterproof to 100m. £199.95, veho-muvi.com

t GoPro Hero4 Black

Plantronics BackBeat PRO If you’re buying headphones for their fashion value, these plain-Jane contenders aren’t for you. But if its wireless convenience and solid sound quality that you’re looking for, you’ve come to the right place.

The impressive battery life is an advantage over the class-leading Bose QC25, and their crisp sound is easily on a par with the Beats Studio, but Plantronics’ lower price makes these the more sensible purchase. £166.35, amazon.co.uk

By John Waddington

s

94

Despite competition from rivals such as the aforementioned Veho Muvi, the GoPro is still the leading action cam, and the Hero4 Black produces broadcast-quality video at a tempting price. Extreme sports enthusiasts will love the simple usability - you charge it, fix it on, record, upload it and that’s it.

Those who want more can explore the settings to make the most of increased frame rates and resolutions. £359, amazon.co.uk

s ViewSonic PLED-W800

This LED projector is a highly portable option for office presentations, but doesn’t compete when you need some serious luminosity. Boasting great file support and easy navigation, the PLED-W800 is aimed squarely at the Powerpoint brigade.

The provision of USB, SD Card and HDMI slots is handy, but there’s no wi-fi, and that’s a big omission. £544, projectors.co.uk

s ViewSonic VX2880ml

The VX2880ml is on the lower end of the price scale when it comes to 4K monitors, but it’s limited to 30Hz rather than the standard 60Hz, meaning that significant ghosting occurs when doing any gaming or computer work. However, if you want to watch 4K videos, movies, streaming and other content, and then switch to a lower resolution for other tasks, the VX2880ml fits the bill. £359.99, amazon.co.uk

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95

mOTORING

FROM ASPIRATION TO ReaLiTy

It’s no surprise that Land Rover’s biggest sales in the UK come from the north west. The well heeled of Cheshire and south Manchester in particular love their Range Rovers – which brings the challenge of how to stand out from the neighbours when everybody’s got one.

A new local body-styling company has the answer. ASPIRE Design, just down the road in Stockport, claims that

if you’re a Range Rover Sport owner and you have your own ideas about customising your vehicle, they can make it happen. Unlike many body-kit suppliers, ASPIRE creates truly bespoke overhauls for this popular vehicle, and not just on the outside. Of the many available options, you are able to tweak not just the exterior look of the car, but also the fine detail of its interior too.

HONDA’S SERIOUS

SUPERCAR Ask most of the general public what they think of when they hear the name Honda and they might talk about motorbikes, boat engines, or sensible, reliable everyday cars. Only a connoisseur might immediately think of the mighty NSX, the 1990-2005 mid-engined world-beater, made famous by, among others, the legendary racing driver Ayrton Senna.

In its time, the NSX was considered a supercar for serious drivers only. To badge-snobs it may have lacked the kudos of the Italian thoroughbreds, but it sure as hell gave them a good beating where it mattered: on the racetrack.

Those same serious drivers will be beside themselves to hear that the NSX is back, and expected to be no less dominant in the performance stakes. With a twin-turbo, mid-mounted V6 hybrid engine, like its predecessor it is based on the same ‘human-centred’ design principles of putting the driver first in every aspect.

96

By Oliver Chesher

From internal lights to side skirts and front grills, ASPIRE says that no detail is too small to be improved by its craftsmen. From redesigned upholstery to entirely new seats, custom lighting systems to matching interior and exterior colour schemes, it can all be customised, with the customer in full control. Visit www.aspire-design.co.uk for more information.

Where European manufacturers boast of passion, Honda proudly talks all about precision. However, when the end result of all that precision is such a knockout as this, you can expect people to get passionate.Honda is taking custom orders from this summer, and the first lucky NSX owners can expect delivery before the end of the year.