Stockport issue 40

STOCKPORT, TRAFFORD & EAST CHESHIREFEBRUARY - APRIL 2014EDITION 40

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THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Gloria HunnifordTalks of the early days, health & more...

Chronnell HibbertYour Local Specialist Solicitors

Independent living with care

Ribby Hall VillageHolidays made to Remember

A great place for a Spa Break or relaxing Day SpaWe are proud to reveal the best-kept secret in the Derbyshire Peak District. Venture along a leafy lane and almost by chance you’ll happen across somewhere rather special. Its name is Losehill House, the only 4 star Hotel located within the heart of The Peak District National Park. This 1914 Arts & Crafts gem redeveloped as a Boutique Country Hotel & Spa occupies a secluded spot on the side of Losehill with stunning views overlooking Win Hill.

What could be more appealing than to spend a few days relaxing in this wonderful oasis, deep in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Our Spa Breaks are designed to complement our wonderful location and facilities by introducing spa treatments in the way that suits you.

Winter Spa Break £125pp per night

This special rate applies for stays from Sunday to Thursday to include Dinner, Bed and Breakfast with use of the pool, sauna and hot tub and £60 per person towards your Spa Treatments during your spa break (max 55 mins per person).

The Spa facilities at Losehill House offer; a tranquil indoor heated pool with panoramic views over Winhill and the Hope Valley. Dedicated changing rooms and showers, along side our peaceful sauna and the fantastic outdoor hot tub on the terrace - a real joy in all seasons!.

These wet facilities are complemented by a suite of three Spa Treatment rooms where you can enjoy an extensive range of spa treatments using luxurious Thalgo products. Thalgo is a truly exclusive product range which you will not find in many retail outlets, it is used by some of the top hotels and spa’s around the world and we are privileged to offer our guests this truly exceptional range of products. All of our spa therapists are employed by the hotel and trained by Thalgo directly. We have been awarded the Thalgo gold Spa Platinum award in 2012 for excellence in beauty.

The Spa is open for residents and non-residents 7 days a week -(subject to availability).

Visit our website for special offers www.losehillhouse.co.ukor contact us on 01433 621219 for more information.

Gift Vouchers make a wonderful present for Valentines Day, Mothers Day, Weddings, Birthdays, Anniversary, Congratulations or just because you care.

HHHHLosehill House Hotel & SpaLose Hill Lane, Hope, Derbyshire S33 6AF.

3www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

6-7 The Great British Holiday ... Discover wonders of the World on your doorstep10-11 Ancient Turkey... Discover the Great Empires of Caria and Lycia14-15 Fashion & Style... Do and Dont's on How to Dress22-23 Gloria Hunniford ... talks of the early days, health & more24-25 Increase in Divorce for the Over 50s ... Quality Solicitors can make it easier26-27 Keep your Car Warm this Winter ... With help of a Local Trusted Garage36-37 Do you have Sleep Problems? ... Marple Chiropractic Clinic can help38-39 Vastly improve your Quality of Life ... With Hearing Clearly Limited44-45 Carecall ... Help at the Touch of a Button.

inside...

McGrath Media.Unit 6 | Moses Gate Workshops Gladys Street | Bolton | BL3 2QG.T: (01204) 796 494 | F: (01204) 791594e: [email protected]

“JOHNNIE” JOHNSON HOUSING TRUST (HEAD OFFICE) ASTRA HOUSE, SPINNERS LANE, POYNTON, CHESHIRE, SK12 1GA. AN EXEMPT CHARITY REGISTERED UNDER THE INDUSTRIAL AND PROVIDENT SOCIETIES ACT 1965 NO.19198R

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Mobile moments of madness

There have been moments recently when I have been sorely tempted to launch my mobile telephone into orbit, pre-programmed to crash to earth on Richard Branson’s head.

Since the beginning of the year my signal from the Virgin network had been gradually worsening often to the point where using a carrier pigeon would have been more effective. Of course the first line of defence for all mobile phone companies are the foreign call centres where everyone is called Godfrey or Marion and you know they’ve never been called that in their life. They’re irritatingly polite and heavily scripted on how to deal with awkward customers going ballistic down the phone and threatening to do all manner of unspeakable things.

“Oh we’re very sorry for the inconvenience Mr Graham,” trilled

one after 45 minutes on the helpline which was the cut off, probably because a passing pigeon had blocked the one bar of signal which I was using. They want you to give in and go away don’t they?

“Oh we’ll be giving you another 3,000 texts as compensation Mr Graham, isn’t that wonderful?”

No! I want to speak to someone not write everything in text, I replied, quietly steaming and thinking of what I’d like to do with the operator’s headset.

Many calls later I was allowed permission to speak to the technical department and, amazingly, I actually understood what he was saying. Virgin had decommissioned a mast close to our area and the signal was weakened because of it and there were no plans to recommission it in the future. Oh

Graham SmithTwitter Column

nice, I live high on the Yorkshire moors and would have thought there was plenty of room for a new mast, but no, said the technical man. I was put through to the public relations department and a very polite chap confirmed that my signal would not improve and I was free to leave Virgin without penalty!

I was in a quandary about who to go to for service, or should I revert back to the two syrup tins and a length of string which had been so effective in my youth? And cheaper. I settled for Talk Talk but for three days that was precisely what I couldn’t do, talk, until numbers had been ported, sims transferred and I had to threaten to separate at least three help line operators from their important bits.

My wife opted for a package with one of those tablet come Kindly wotsit gadgets. It’s amazing the stuff they have now, even a phone that reacts when you look at it. I’m hanging on until they have one which soothes you when you can’t make a phone call, brews tea and makes a bacon sandwich. Sorry, just having another moment of mobile madness!

A North Shields man loves Marmite so much that he’s changed his surname by deed poll to match the yeast spread.

Saire May - now Marmite - made the leap to show his ‘devotion and passion’ to the dark brown paste.“I’m not exactly sure how old I was when I first tried Marmite, but I just remember eating it as far back as I can remember,” he said.

“I like the smell, the taste, the texture. I think I pretty much like everything about it.”

Mr Marmite, 38, says he easily gets through a jar a week and also collects Marmite paraphernalia including limited edition jars, cufflinks and a recipe book dating back to the Second World War.

Spreading the news

“My family think I’m mad. However my mum just shrugged her shoulders, she expects this kind of thing from me,” he added.

It’s the sort of silly idea which could spread.

Tyred of wasted moneyIt seems to me that an incredible amount of money is wasted on rather useless items, many in the name of education.

Our local school has just unveiled a “tyre park” which has cost a staggering £10,000. Now how many swimming lessons or creative activities could that money have bought instead of dumping a pile of old painted tyres for pupils to clamber across?

In my schooldays we were quite happy with a playground area where we fashioned wickets from a dustbin, chalked goalposts on the wall and if anyone had dumped a load of old tyres there we’d have thrown them out. Progress?

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When it comes to choosing a break away many of us automatically go online or get brochures from the travel agent to look beyond our own shores to possibly sunnier climes in other parts of the world.

That blinkered approach to homegrown charms means we may not appreciate the best of what this country has to offer. But, for the discerning, The Great British Holiday has become THE way to enjoy time away from home.

Look at the basic reality: you don’t have to worry about changing money to a different currency or learning a foreign language, agonise over flight delays, spend long hours at the airport doing nothing or deal with the often baffling laws and customs of another country.

By discovering the genuine wonders of the world on your own doorstep, you plug into a much more relaxed

holiday that can quickly awaken all of us to just why so many visitors from other countries converge on the UK each year as their destination of choice.

For a start, there are all kinds of holidays we can take in this country – ranging from active adventure holidays to tailor-made tourism around fascinating towns and villages, to ultra-relaxing breaks to allow mind and body to rest and re-charge to face the rest of life.

There are few countries in the world where so many holiday choices are available. You can hire a cottage in a remote rural spot, take over a country lodge for a family break, stay in a piece of English history, or just put your trust in a reliable travel company and let a coach whisk you away on a scenic route to a super hotel home-from-home.

When you’ve got past the family holiday style of seaside breaks or activity holiday parks, you may just love the luxury and sheer lack of responsibility of being taken on a coach tour holiday.

And there is just so much to see and do in this country! You can sample local ales in Devizes in Wiltshire, enjoy international arts in Salisbury and explore stone circles and Iron Age forts in the countryside.

Consider an escape to the country’s largest oak forest in the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, see Dover’s stunning white cliffs or visit the beautiful cathedrals of Rochester and Canterbury. Then there’s the glorious ancient woodland of the New Forest where William the Conqueror once hunted.

Our first National Park in the Peak District is the scenery which inspired the Brontes, or you can view Creswell Crag’s stunning Ice Age legacy. Little around the world is as beautiful as our own Lake District and Cumbria, while the Yorkshire Dales offer mile upon mile of unspoiled landscape as a feast for the eyes and the senses.

Explore the historic streets of Salisbury and Stonehenge and tuck into tasty local farmers’ produce, or wander the banks of the River Wear in Durham. Spare some time, too, to visit its iconic cathedral there before appreciating the wild and lovely countryside of the Durham Dales.

Our cities have much to fascinate – from stunning landmarks in Norwich spanning the Norman, Medieval, Georgian, Victorian and modern eras to Windsor Castle, bursting with a thousand years of history.

Soak up the atmosphere in Bath and visit the fascinating Roman baths or wonder at York’s remarkable old buildings

TRAVEL AND LEISURE

The Great British Holiday


and visit the Shambles, voted the country’s most picturesque street.

Make a pilgrimage to Canterbury and discover the bloody history behind Chaucer’s tales. Or travel to our historic seats of learning and culture to stimulate the intellect and the imagination. Stratford upon Avon is home to all things Shakespeare; see works by Michaelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Picasso at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, or study Charles Darwin’s specimens at the Zoology Museum in Cambridge.

Of course, holidays don’t all have to be about sitting around or simply strolling about looking at tourist spots. You might prefer your walks brisk, exploring the Cornish coast, or hiking over the many English hills and dales.

You might be one of the thousands of people who love caravan holidays, taking your accommodation with you to the hundreds of well-organised camp sites and their useful facilities to structure your own days. You might prefer to try out well-appointed static caravans at holiday parks which also offer entertainment on your independent holiday.

Boating holidays are more popular than ever, with the country’s wonderful network of canals and rivers introduced to new fans every year.

The Lancaster Canal, for example, is one of our most scenic and gentle waterways, running for 42 lock-free miles through pleasant pasturelands, overlooked for most of the way by the foothills of the Pennines.

Today’s narrowboats come fully-equipped, some with central heating, full-size shower and TV, appealing to all.

As Robert Foulkes of Crabtree Narrowboat Hire explained: “Last year we had people in their early 20s, grandparents with their grandkids and 50-somethings whose children had left home and this was their first holiday on their own for 20 years.”

The Great British Holiday – in all its forms, price-ranges and activities or lack of them - offers the freedom to choose exactly how YOU want to spend your break. And the bonus is that it’s often a brand new voyage of discovery of the fabulous place that is our country.

The warmest and friendliest welcome awaits you!

Primrose Bank is a small quiet park in the village of Weeton, close to Blackpool in Lancashire: Lying between the ancient villages of Weeton and Singleton, in the Fylde countryside, Primrose Bank is a hidden gem, with abundant wildlife, trees and bucket loads of peace and quiet. You’d be surprised that it’s on the bus routes to the bustling towns of Preston and Blackpool so it’s an ideal base for local attractions and facilities.

Primrose Bank has been awarded the David Bellamy GOLD award for conservation for the past five years and our standards are continuously being improved every year that goes by.

Primrose Bank Is The Perfect Park For You: If you are looking to rent one of our wonderful newly built cottages or lodges, buy a holiday home or caravan in a peaceful and idyllic setting within easy reach of Blackpool then look no further. We are close to all kinds of fishing; fly, sea, river, canal and lake are all within easy reach. Several golf courses, good restaurants and of course many leisure pursuits are all not far away.

Call us on (01253) 836 273High Moor Farm, Singleton Road,

Weeton, PRESTON PR4 3JJe: [email protected]

www.primrosecaravanpark.co.uk

Holiday Homes Cottage Lets Timber Lodges Touring Park

l Easy access from the M55 l Limited number of pitches available l 111/2 months holiday season

See brochure for full holiday details, Terms & conditions apply.

The Robinsons Differencel Complimentary Insurancel Local joining points l No single supplements*l High standard of accommodationl Great choice of menusl Executive coaches with extra legrooml Includes excursionsl Friendly staffl Own hotels in great locationsl Peace of mind securityl Payment in instalments* Robinsons own hotels

Stylish hotel located in the grounds of the former Torre Abbey.

Facilities at the Abbey Lawn Hotel include:

Indoor Heated Pool/Outdoor Pool, Lounge, Large Conservatory, Sea View Rooms available*, Lift, Porterage.

An impressive Victorian building set amidst a beautiful tree lined boulevard.

Facilities at the Imperial Hotel include:

Two Residents’ Bars, Ballroom, TV & Complimentary Tea & Coffee in all Bedrooms, 2 x Lifts, Porterage.

An elegant hotel commanding magnificent views across Sandown Bay, Golden Beaches and a quaint collection of shops.

Facilities at the Ocean View Hotel include:

Indoor Heated Pool, Indoor Bowling Green, Table Tennis, Snooker Room, Sea View Rooms available* Lift, Porterage.

The Imperial Hotel, Eastbourne, Robinsons 3H

The Ocean View Hotel, Shanklin, Robinsons 3H

The Abbey Lawn Hotel, Torquay AA3H

Coach Holidays

Est.1923

Enjoy a relaxing holiday by coach to great hotels and destinations throughout the UK and Europe with Robinsons Holidays.

FREEPHONE 0800 0839900FOR GROUPS 0800 785 1025 BOOK ONLINE www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP.

2014 ROBINSONS OWN HOTELS

9www.50plusmagazine.co.uk 9www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

5 Day Tour ~ 4 Nights Half Board 8 Day Tour ~ 7 Nights Half Board

Date Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn

09 Feb £125 - £125

16 Feb £129 - £129

23 Feb £135 - £135

03 Mar £139 £139 £139

10 Mar £145 £145 £145

17 Mar £149 £149 £149

23 Mar £155 £155 £155

31 Mar £159 £159 £159

06 Apr £165 £165 £165

13 Apr £169 £169 £169

18 Apr £179 £179 £179

23 Apr £175 £175 £175

27 Apr £179 £179 £179

03 May £185 £185 £185

07 May £189 £189 £189

11 May £195 £195 £195

17 May £199 £199 £199

21 May £205 £205 £205

25 May £209 £209 -

31 May £219 £219 -

l Eastbourne l Isle of Wight l Torquay

BOOK ONLINE www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP.

Date Imperial Ocean View Abbey Lawn

03 May £359 £359 £359

04 May £359 £359 -

10 May £369 £369 £369

11 May £369 £369 -

17 May £379 £379 £379

18 May £379 £379 -

24 May £389 £389 £389

25 May £389 £389 £389

31 May £399 £399 £399

01 Jun £399 £399 £399

07 Jun £399 £399 £399

08 Jun £399 £399 £399

14 Jun £399 £399 £399

15 Jun £399 £399 £399

21 Jun £399 £399 £399

22 Jun £399 £399 £399

28 Jun £399 £399 £399

29 Jun £399 £399 £399

05 July £399 £399 £399

06 July £399 £399 £399

12 July £399 £399 £399

13 July £399 £399 £399

19 July £399 £399 £399

20 July £399 £399 £399

26 July £399 £399 £399

27 July £399 £399 £399

SUPPLEMENTS - PER PERSON

ABBEY LAWN HOTEL 8 DAYS 5 DAYSFront View £15 £10Premier Room £50 £30

IMPERIAL HOTEL Premier Room £35 £20

OCEAN VIEW HOTELSea View £15 £10Premier Room £50 £30

All tours include 2 Excursions and Complimentary Insurance


50 Plus Travel sponsored by

Turkey is home to numerous ruins

dating back to ancient times and the

country’s south western coastline is

one of the most historically populated

areas. Dubbed as the ‘Turquoise

Coast’ for its stunning scenic colours,

this vast area spans two significant

and influential regions in antiquity,

namely Lycia and Caria. From

intricately carved tombs to underwater

towns, this area of Turkey has much to

explore!

The charming resort of Dalyan –

close to the regions’ main airport,

Dalaman – straddles the delta and

is an area rich in natural beauty and

historical attractions. Until the late

1980s, this traditional fishing area

remained somewhat undiscovered

by tourists, despite its impressive

landscape, diverse wildlife and ancient

ruins. However, the delta gained

international fame after developers

attempted to construct a luxury hotel

close to the breeding ground of the

endangered loggerhead turtles. As

a result, the Dalyan Delta became a

protected area, thereby maintaining

the unspoilt nature of the region.

Nowadays, visitors head to Dalyan

not just to observe this endangered

species, but also to see the other

impressive attractions the area has to

offer.

One such attraction is the Dalyan

Tombs that are set high up in the cliff

face above the Dalyan Delta. They

were constructed for the Carian city

of Caunos around 400BC to house the

bodies of deceased kings, providing

us with a fascinating insight into the

burial customs of the inhabitants of

this ancient city. The location of the

tombs also helps us to understand

the way of life in ancient Lycia and

Caria, as they believed that a winged

creature carried the deceased to

the after world, therefore the burial

chambers were constructed on a cliff

face. Whilst the entire landscape of

Lycia is scattered with a selection of

fascinating funeral monuments, it is

these on the Dalyan Delta that are

considered the most imposing and

awe-inspiring tombs of the ancient

region. At night time the tombs are lit

up creating a dramatic, atmospheric

backdrop to the delta which can be

seen for miles.

Caunos itself is another fascinating

attraction. The largest ancient city in

the Carian era, it was constructed,

according to Greek mythology, by

Apollo’s grandson. Those who visit

these iconic ruins can discover

remains of many different parts of

the old city which were uncovered

during an excavation, from the

ancient amphitheatre to the traditional

Hellenistic and Roman temples, to

name a few.

Further eastwards, Kalkan lies at the

heart of some of the most impressive

Lycian sites. Xanthos was a site of

exceptional importance in antiquity

as it is thought to have been a main

centre for culture and commerce.

Extensive excavations and research

of the area have led to the discovery

of a selection of texts in the Lycian

Ancient Turkey:Discover the Great Empires of Caria and Lycia

By Mathew Simpson

Simpson Travel

www.simpsontravel.com

Patara Ruins


Silver Travel Advisor is a travel review, information and advice website exclusively for over 50’s, packed with articles, suggestions, tips and ideas. For free and independent travel advice as well as reviews about holidays, hotels, restaurants and days out, please visit www.silvertraveladvisor.com or email [email protected]. It’s free to register as a member of Silver Travel Advisor, and you could win a fabulous holiday prize.

language and Greek, as well as a

considerable amount of artefacts.

The British Museum now houses

two tombs, the Nereid monument

and the Tomb of Payava, both

of which were discovered at the

ruins. Another tomb, known as

the Harpy Tomb, is still located at

the remains of the city. Only 4kms

south of Xanthos, positioned on

the banks of the Xanthos River, is

one of the most important religious

centres in the region – Letoon –

where the foundations of temples

can be seen. A further remain – the

ancient city of Patara – can also

be found in this historically rich

region. Excavated in the 1980s,

a magnificent Roman arch can

be admired, as well as an impressive theatre. Once a prosperous

commercial city, the ruins are positioned just a short distance

from Patara Beach – one of the most photographed beaches in the

Mediterranean.

There are also a number of other smaller sites and one of the more

interesting and unusual ones is nearby Kekova which is home to the

semi-sunken city of Simena. Originally a fishing village, a 2nd century

earthquake had devastating effects on Simena – however it left behind

an exceptional historical site. Half of the ancient houses have become

submerged, with staircases leading down underwater, where the

foundations of the buildings and an old harbour can be found. In 1990,

this region was declared a protected area, prohibiting swimming and

diving.

Further north and on its own peninsula lies the unspoilt rural region

of Bozburun, yet another area which is home to other interesting

historical settlements located in ancient Caria. From here, you can

explore the ancient Greek settlement of Knidos, located just a short

drive away on the nearby Datça Peninsula, a ruin that is built partly on

the mainland and partly on the Island of Triopion which, in antiquity,

was connected to the mainland by a bridge.

Iztuzu Beach

Bozburun Peninsula


Firstly, we pick you up at your front door at a pre-arranged time in a minibus or taxi. You are then transferred to a central meeting point where the coach is waiting for you. Within 15 to 30 minutes you’re on your way aboard our luxury coach travelling directly to your holiday destination, making suitable stops en-route. The hotels that we use are of a 3 or 4 star standard or occasionally a good quality family run 2 star hotel. We pick- up at your door in most of the Greater Manchester area. We visit every part of the UK from the Shetland Islands to Cornwall. Our drivers are very experienced mature individuals with a wealth of knowledge about our wonderful country. We do city breaks, historic adventures, scenic tours, train rides, boat rides, canal trips, not forgetting our numerous costal resorts.

We offer a price guarantee – everything noted in the brochure is included in the price. No surcharges, we also guarantee that if we reduce the price of a holiday every customer gets the same reduction.

Why not join one of our Quality Door to Door Coach Tours?

Door to Door Coach Holidays from

Find us on facebook & twitter (search for ellensmithtours)

INTERESTED? Call our reservations office on 01706 648126 and request a copy of our 2014 brochure. You’ll be surprised at the variations of tours we operate. Visit our website at www.ellensmith.co.uk

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6th June | 4 Days | £399Includes:

✔ Dover - Calais Ferry✔ In Flanders Field Museum✔ Guided tour of 14-18 route✔ Guided tour for The Somme✔ Entrance to Wellington Quarries.

Spectacular Highland RailwaysBalavil Hotel, Newtonmore 3*

20th August | 5 days | £329Includes

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holidays made to Rememberholidays made to Remember

Feel-Good HolidaysFROM ONLY £280* FOR 6 PEOPLE

To book or request a brochure call us FREE on 0800 085 17 17 or visit www.ribbyhall.co.uk

In the heart of the Lancashire countryside you will find the beautiful Ribby Hall Holiday Village. Over 100 acres of luxury accommodation, restaurants, cafés and bars, leisure facilities and an award winning Spa.

Just a short distance away you’ll find the charming seaside town of Lytham St Annes and the bright lights of Blackpool. With something to keep every age entertained, Ribby Hall Village is the perfect place to enjoy a holiday with family or friends.

Our fabulous cottages, with all the luxuries of home, start from just £280 for six people. Book before 2nd March 2014 and receive up to £60 off your holiday.

*Terms and conditions apply. £280 lead in price applies to four night break between 17 Nov – 18 Dec 14 in a Poppy Cottage.


FASHION

FASHION & STYLE for women aged over 50 doesn’t necessarily come in a neat package labelled for each day of the week or each different occasion.

Unfortunately, it can come with a big list of questions which start with “Will that suit me?” and go on to “Is that too young for me?”

Most women do know pretty well about their general style by the time they hit middle-age. And what they don’t automatically want is a plethora of elasticated waistbands, dowdy long cardigans and unflattering brogues – nor are they likely to opt for figure-hugging leggings and bottom-skimming mini-skirts.

Dressing well these days is really all about developing a sense of your own style .... and having confidence in what you wear. That alone lets you lift your head up, walk taller and look better!

It’s very easy to be put off by nubile young figures in the Topshop changing rooms when you’ve got an expanding waist, a less-than-pert bosom and thighs that you’ve studiously ignored for the past five years.

But, the key really is not to rule out anything, new or vintage, because fashions can often be adapted to suit you as an individual. Again, we’re back to that confidence in yourself, and acknowledging what does and doesn’t flatter you.

There really has never been a better time to be an older woman wanting

to look fashionably fabulous. Think Lulu, the Duchess of Cornwall, Jane Asher, Twiggy or Lynda Bellingham. In fact, the last two are actually fronting well-known fashion labels.

Twiggy who, after over 40 years in the fashion business, had her own

FIRST, A FEW DO'S AND DONT'S

Do give today’s fashions a chance – you don’t have to follow trends slavishly but there might be a look or style worth trying, especially when the catwalk is translated into high street lines

Do be realistic about your shape, height and colouring

Do go for good-fitting clothes that flatter your shape

Do look at your daily lifestyle and what sort of clothes suit it

Do ensure that any “special occasion” buys are fairly versatile – why spend a large amount on something you can only wear once?

Do look at multi-buys in the same range if you like them and they look flattering – this is cost-effective shopping and gives you a better “capsule wardrobe” of complementing outfits

Do factor in comfort – if you’re uncomfortable or uneasy in your clothes it shows

Do de-clutter your wardrobe and see what you’ve got that you want to keep and will definitely wear – if you’ve not worn any item for 12 months, will you ever again?

Don’t wear baggy clothes in the mistaken idea that they make you look thin – they don’t

Don’t assume you can wear an outfit just because it looks good on a six-foot tall 17 year-old model – the mirror doesn’t lie!

Don’t dismiss high street brands because you’re not a tiny size – many stores now stock 16-plus in their season’s ranges

Don’t forget the value of accessories, especially the latest ideas that can make a plain outfit look sensational


Marks & Spencer range and has become a fashion icon for older women. And actress Lynda Bellingham long ago shrugged off her homely Oxo mum persona to emerge, chrysalis-like, as a Calendar Girl happy to strip down to just her pearls and her comely shape – all in the cause of theatre, of course!

Lynda was also the public face of online fashion shopping range isme, with regular TV adverts keeping both her and them high-profile. Her chic looks are being copied by many women who previously might have thought particular styles were not for them.

She believes that we shouldn’t dress “differently” as we age, but realistically. “Look for shape-enhancing details like cap sleeves, stretch in the right places, different trouser cuts, and built-in panels to make you look and feel great,” she states.

Lynda suggests embracing colour rather than shying away from it. “Wear colours that compliment your skin tone and hair colour,” she says. And try substituting black for purple or deep berry tones for a welcome change.

Control your wardrobe properly and have attractive, staple items that look good. These could include a classy mac, a pair of wide-legged trousers, a glamorous top or a classic shift dress which you can dress up or down with suitable accessories as the occasion demands.

However, Lynda is a member of the “less is more” school of fashion when it comes to accessories and advises against overdoing it. Instead, it’s better to opt for one or two statement pieces of jewellery like a necklace or earrings that can look simply sophisticated and very stylish.

She knows that sometimes you need to try something new to develop your own personal style, “So don’t be scared to try different looks,” she advises. Do you ever wear prints, for example? There are plenty around to choose from this year, and if you’re still a little wary you could pair plain trousers or a tailored skirt with a printed top.

In general, investing in, for example, a smart, well-cut jacket that can go anywhere makes sense. In a block colour, it can be teamed with a plain shift dress underneath or something printed. That kind of jacket can take you to a meeting or informal social occasion or can be worn with something more dressy for an evening out.

Look at your accessories in the same way. Many older women seldom buy belts, but these can make a plain outfit look terrific and don’t need to emphasise waists not quite as trim as they used to be. View the outfit overall, perhaps employ that smart jacket with toning shoes and a bag plus a colourful scarf.

It’s also worth keeping in mind the impact of neutral-coloured shoes like the fashionable Duchess of Cambridge often wears; teamed with flesh-coloured tight these are real leg-lengtheners.

You don’t need to wear a very short hemline to pull off this kind of look or very high heels if you don’t want to. A knee-length or just-below-the-knee dress length with kitten or other low heels can be equally flattering. And pretty flatties like the current crop of ballerina pumps can also look exactly right with some outfits, especially the more informal and fluid.

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Music and entertainment • Craft zone • Seminars & information • Financial tips & advice • Health checks • Gardening Q&A time Park & holidays homes • Keep fit sessions • Dance floor • Prize quiz • Fashion show • Cookery demonstrations • Holidays & travel

Have-a-go dancing and a wide range of exhibition stands!

Register online for free via www.50plusShow.com

The 50+ ShowMANCHESTER

CENTRALFri-Sat, 28-29 MAR 2014

9.30am to 4.30pm

A fantastic day out for everyone who loves lifeand wants to make the most of it!Meet a celebrity each day!

FREE ENTRY!

Not online? CALL the free ticket hotline on 01372 8409 63 or 68

PLUS Mystery guests

OUT & ABOUT

25 February 2014 10:30am Walking to Health - Historic Drive WalkLyme Park, House and GardenKeep active and improve your health by joining an experienced Lyme Park volunteer on a guided walk. Explore beautiful scenery and lesser known areas of the park.

• Pleasewearsuitableoutdoorfootwearand clothing• PleasemeetoutsidetheInformationCentre in the main car park Little Moreton Hall

More Information: Lyme Park Estate Office, 01663 762023, [email protected]

22 March 2014 7:30pm

Night Sky DiscoveryMarsden Moor EstatePrice: All Tickets £2

Explore the dark skies above Marsden Moor with Huddersfield Astronomical Society. Please note: this event is weather dependent.

• BookingEssential01484847016• NormalAdmissionChargesApply• Don’tforgettowrapupwarm.• MeetatBuckstonescarparkontheA640.

More Information: Marsden Moor Estate Office, 01484 847016, [email protected]

A Merry MarchDaily from 26 March to 30 March 2014Come and join us as we celebrate Tudor New Year. Plan a seed to grow at home and make something special for mother’s day

More Information: Little Moreton Hall, 01260 272018, [email protected]

Free event (normal admission charges apply) Please see the main property page for open and closed days.

Chester Food, Drink & Lifestyle Festival 201419 - 21 AprilThe Racecourse, Watergate Square, Chester, CheshireCH1 2LY

If you have never been to this event before than you really don’t know what you are missing.

You enter through the Pavilion at Chester


racecourse where you are met by some of the counties finest Cheese makers, the regions great cider makers, game sellers from Cumbria, dry cured meats from North wales – and you are only in the first part of this extravaganza. Making your way outside you see purveyors of fine coffees, stone baked pizzas, children cooking with the Academy of Culinary Arts.

Moving on you come to the restaurant village where some of Cheshire’s finest provide you with foods from right across the world, Thai, Japanese, Italian, even Mongolian food, as well as some home cooked treats. Next it’s through the Taste Cheshire village and then on to the lifestyle section featuring the Grosvenor Art society, or key cooking demonstrations and more great food and drink exhibitors. The whole experience takes about 4-5 hours and all for less than £20. Now that’s a great family day out this Easter Tel: 01244 405 615.

Sandbach Transport FestivalThe 2014 Festival Weekend will be held on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th April.

Sandbach Town Centre, Sandbach, Cheshire CW11 1AH

In addition to our traditional Sunday gathering and parade we are pleased to announce that we will host a static display of classic and interesting cars on the Common, the day before, on Saturday 26th April.

Tel: 07957 545 908

7 June 2014 Red Shoe Walk - Peak DistrictEdale Village Hall, Edale, Hope Valley, Derbyshire S33 7ZA

Experience the beauty of the Peak District on this family adventure through the heart of the Derbyshire countryside.

Join us on this scenic walk that offers views over the Vale of Edale. With a few hills along the way, this fun family walk really will get the fresh air flowing into your lungs as you help us celebrate Red Cross Week.

Get your friends and family together, dress in red and join us on what promises to be a great day out.

Why join Team Red Cross?

By joining Team Red Cross, you will be fundraising to help people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are.You will receive:• afundraisingpackfulloftipsandadvicetohelpyou raise as much as you can• mapsanddirectionsforyourchallengealongasafe and supported route• aRedCrosst-shirtifyouraise£100• afreepairofredshoecovers.

REGISTER NOWTelephone: 0844 412 2877Email:[email protected]

18 BOX OFFICE: 0845 127 2190

JANUARY to MARCH 2014Buxton's exquisitely beautiful Opera House was designed and built by Frank Matcham, one of Britain's finest architects in 1903. One of Britain’s leading receiving theatres, it presents around 700 performances each year including comedy, children’s events, drama, musical shows, pantomime, dance and opera.

Lovingly restored to its former glory in 2001 after major refurbishment, the theatre is well worth a visit. Expect a spectacular auditorium complete with cherubim, exquisite ceiling paintings and gold leaf decoration.

Don’t forget – visit Buxton Opera House for:-

• The stunningly beautiful and historic Opera House auditorium

• A packed programme of events for everyone to enjoy

• Easy parking and a friendly welcome

• An excellent range of discounts for senior citizens and groups of 8+ on most performances

• A delightful spa town with terrific restaurants and B&Bs – why not stay a few days?

To book tickets or request a brochure, call the Box Office on

0845 127 2190 (local rate from anywhere in the UK. Call charges from a mobile vary). 10am to 8pm Mon to Saturday (or 6pm if no evening show)4pm to 8pm Sunday if there is an evening performance.

Or visit www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk for a full what’s on listing.

SUN 2 FEBRUARYMid Wales Opera presentsACIS & GALATEAHandel’s masterpiece tells an enchanting story from ancient mythology with music from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.

WED 12 FEBRUARYMichael Friend Productions presentsTHE MAN OF DESTINYGeorge Bernard Shaw’s witty attack on empty heroism is revived for a short Spring 2014 tour.

THURS 13 FEBRUARYRussian State Ballet & Opera House LA TRAVIATAA love story shrouded in sacrifice and misunderstanding. Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

FRI 31 JANUARYTHE KING OF POP - THE LEGEND CONTINUESIncredible tribute show to Michael Jackson featuring Navi.

SAT 25 JANUARYABBA REUNIONRe-live the addictive ABBA phenomenon that swept the airwaves and discos ofthe 70s and 80s in a truly feel-good party-style tribute concert.

FRI 24 JANUARYTHE JOHNNY CASH ROADSHOWPrepare for a musical adventure that truly celebrates the career of the music legend with the UK’s No1 tribute.

SAT 8 FEBRUARYNIGHTS ON BROADWAY – A TRIBUTE TO THE BEE GEESFantastic live concert, featuring the Gibb brothers’ incredible songs from over four decades.

www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

Buxton Opera HouseWater StreetBuxtonDerbyshireSK17 6XN

SUN 9 MARCHOpera & Ballet International presents NABUCCOVerdi’s powerful tale laced with revenge, destruction and jealousy. Directed by Ellen Kent.

SAT 15 MARCHJOE LONGTHORNEWith an endless repertoire of voices including hundreds of the world’s top singers, this is a show that will leave its audience thrilled.

THURS 27 FEBRUARYBLAKEFeaturing spectacular video projections, the boys combine classical, pop, rock and musicals in a show that amazes with its variety and class.

FRI 28 FEBRUARY TO SUN 2 MARCHMOSCOW STATE CIRCUS – PARK GORKOGOSet in the mystical centre of Moscow’s cultural & artistic quarter, ‘Gorky Park’ is the perfect back drop for the greatest circus on earth.

WED 5 MARCHDIRTY DUSTINGCrissy Rock, Leah Bell and Pat Dunn star in a heart-warming laugh out loud comedy that will have you smiling every time you answer the phone!

THURS 6 TO SAT 8 MARCHRussian State Ballet of Siberia presentsDON QUIXOTE, GISELLE & SWAN LAKEA programme of three full ballets over three days.

FRI 14 FEBRUARYPUNT & DENNIS – PLOUGHING ON REGARDLESSThe ‘kings of satirical comedy’ return with a brand new show for 2014.

SUN 23 FEBRUARYLAUREL & HARDYThe heartwarming story of the legendary partnership told through film and live action.

SAT 15 To SAT 22 FEBRUARYFOUR FOUR TIME 2014The annual Buxton Festival of Live Music returns with top acts Toploader, Brian May and Toyah Wilcox all making an appearance.

SUN 30 MARCHDOWN TO EARTH – AN EVENING WITH MONTY DONBBC television presenter and the nation’s favourite gardener speaks about his life and travels visiting gardens all over the world.

THURS 20 MARCHTHE MEAT LOAF STORYSteve Steinman returns with his epic adventure delivering the best of the best from Meat Loaf’s incredible catalogue of albums.

TUES 25 MARCHBARRY CRYER – TWITTER TITTERSBaz returns with Colin Sell, as he seeks to bring a ray of sunshine amid the dark clouds of life.


Ashton

TOWN CENTRE MANAGEMENT INITIATIVE

Portland BasinArcades

ShoppingCentre

LadysmithShopping

Centre

OldTown

OutdoorMarket

and IndoorMarket Hall

SetantiiMuseum of the

Manchester Regiment

20/4/11 15:39:57

Ashton

TOWN CENTRE MANAGEMENT INITIATIVE

Portland BasinArcades

ShoppingCentre

LadysmithShopping

Centre

OldTown

OutdoorMarket

and IndoorMarket Hall

SetantiiMuseum of the

Manchester Regiment

, Chiquitos, HarvesterDayAshton Moss and Eat Inn Chinese

Buffet

• Award winning Farmers Market held on the last Sunday of each month

Portland BasinMuseum of the

Manchester Regiment

Hyde Town Centre & Markets

• One of the biggest outdoor markets in the region (140 stalls), operating seven days each week and Ashton’s famous Indoor Market Hall for fantastic fresh produce. Call 0161 342 3268

• Arcades Shopping Centre featuring top high street names like: The Body Shop, Next, Argos, Superdrug and WH Smith

• Ladysmith Shopping Centre for even more great names like: Bon Marché, Boots, Dorothy Perkins, JD Sports, Peacocks and Costa Coffee

• Flat, pedestrianised, compact town centre ideal for young families and people with mobility problems

• Wheelchair and mobility scooter friendly

• Ashton Moss Leisure Park offering Hollywood Bowl and a 12 screen Cineworld as well as great restaurant facilities including Frankie & Benny’s, Nando’s, KFC, Chiquitos, Harvester Ashton Moss and Eat Inn Chinese Buffet

• Award winning Farmers Market held on the last Sunday of each month

• Great public transport facilities with one of the busiest bus stations in the north west plus adjacent railway station receiving regular half hourly trains from Manchester City Centre. New tram route

•

•

linking Manchester and Ashton

The ‘Old Town’ area where over 150 quality independent retailers still offerservice with a smile

Free Summer and festive town centreentertainment including Vintage &Classic Car Show, Sci-Fi Day plusmuch more.

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To book or request a brochure call us FREE on 0800 085 17 17 or visit www.ribbyhall.co.uk

In the heart of the Lancashire countryside you will find the beautiful Ribby Hall Holiday Village. Over 100 acres of luxury accommodation, restaurants, cafés and bars, leisure facilities and an award winning Spa.

Just a short distance away you’ll find the charming seaside town of Lytham St Annes and the bright lights of Blackpool. With something to keep every age entertained, Ribby Hall Village is the perfect place to enjoy a holiday with family or friends.

Our fabulous cottages, with all the luxuries of home, start from just £280 for six people. Book before 2nd March 2014 and receive up to £60 off your holiday.

*Terms and conditions apply. £280 lead in price applies to four night break between 17 Nov – 18 Dec 14 in a Poppy Cottage.

Reader offer - If you’re not lucky enough to win, you can still take advantage of Ribby Hall Village’s fantastic January offer, receive up to £60 off 2014 bookings

at Ribby Hall Village. Call 0800 085 1717 8am-8pm, seven days a week.

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s

www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Subscription FormTo receive the next two issues of 50 Plus Magazine

hot off the press, either for yourself or to treat a friend, please fill in the form below and post with a cheque for £3.40 made payable to McGrath Regional Media: Unit

6, Moses Gate Workshops, Gladys Street, Bolton BL3 2QG.

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Located in the heart of the Lancashire countryside, this award-winning five-star Visit Britain holiday destination is just 10 minutes from the seaside towns of Blackpool and Lytham St Annes.

You can choose from a midweek break or a weekend visit. Your break includes a stay in a luxury self-catering Poppy cottage, which can accommodate up to six people. The cottages all have a living room, kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite, two separate bedrooms and a family bathroom, plus their own patio and barbecue area and a privateparking space.

Ribby Hall Village has plenty of facilities and activities to keep the family entertained, such as horse riding, segways, archery, a golf course and a gym. You’ll have unlimited use of the swimming pools, play areas and fishing ponds, too. There are also lots of great bars, restaurants including Starbucks, Papa John’s pizza store & takeaway and family fun and adult only entertainment venues. Prices start from just £280 for a family cottage for four nights and currently you can get up to £60 off 2014 bookings, for more information, visit www.ribbyhall.co.uk (offer ends 2nd March 2014).

Closing date for entries: 2.3.14. Winner will be notified by post.Terms and Conditions apply to offer, please call Ribby Hall Village on 0800 085 17 17 for more details. Prize Terms and conditions: The holiday can be taken any time before the end of December 2014 (excluding Winter Wonderland and New Year Breaks) and is subject to availability. Prize is not transferable and

cannot be exchanged for cash, Ribby Hall Village may contact you directly by mail, email, text or phone with special offer information or new product updates. Your details will not be passed on to any third parties. Terms and conditions apply.


Gloria Hunniford was just enjoying a few weeks near Nice in France with her husband when we chatted.It marked a particularly busy time when she had been filming more programmes for the TV hit series Rip-off Britain, which had been extended

to cover rip-offs on holidays and on food. And Ms Hunniford, now a lovely 73 year-old with the beautiful skin and enduring looks typical of Irish people, always tries to look after herself.

“You need to keep balance, avoid being thrown off kilter,” she explains. “It’s very easy when you’re busy but I do try to take holidays and eat and sleep properly.”

She’s also a great fan of vitamins, which she takes each day, and admits

to “a certain amount of exercise”, usually walking the dogs or using her exercise bike in front of the TV.

“I’ve just lost two stone, though,” she states. “It wasn’t a vanity thing – my sister was diagnosed with diabetes and I asked the doctor what I should do to avoid it. Losing weight seemed a sensible idea so I cut out both sugar and carbohydrates and the weight just dropped off.”

It feels like the popular broadcaster has always been with us. Radio and TV audiences love her, and Gloria has the enduring charm that people of all ages and both sexes find attractive and easygoing.

I once stood next to her in an aiport queue as she took a flight to her native Ireland and her fellow travellers were plainly fascinated by the VIP in their

INTERVIEW: GLORIA HUNNIFORD

Gloria’s early days, health & more...By Angela Kelly


midst, but also very warm to her.She was named after the actress Gloria Swanson but early on she became a singer, entertaining at her dad’s concerts. He was a newspaper man by day and a magician by night.

She spent time in Canada, singing on TV and performing listeners’ Irish song requests on the radio, then returned home where she joined ITV’s new Ulster Television as a production assistant. She continued her singing, though, and got a record in the Ulster charts in 1969.

After she was interviewed on BBC radio, the producer asked her to audition as an interviewer, then hired her for Northern Ireland’s equivalent of the Today programme.

She cut her teeth on news and current affairs, moved on to a nightly news programme and finally ended up invited to work in London. Here, her friendly Irish accident and warm manner quickly won over fans. She filled in for Jimmy Young while he was on holiday, and the banter between her and Terry Wogan – whom she already knew – at the end of the programme swiftly enhanced her reputation. People felt she was a familiar friend on the air.

She was given her own show, Gloria Hunniford’s Open House, and was a daily TV fixture for five years. She still makes appearances on The One Show and became a regular once more on our screens with another very popular series Cash in the Attic, which she loves.

“They’ve got about 20 programmes already made but they’ve also now launched an interactive website and an app which is all very exciting because you can go onto the site anytime you want to, anywhere,” she says enthusiastically.

“I love that programme – I’m a great fan of antiques and I’ve collected them myself for years. I collected so many angels and cherubs one of my sons forbade me to bring any more home!

And I’ve also collected teapots and jewellery crosses.”

She loves the surprises that people get when items they discover go to auction, and thoroughly enjoys the celebrity version. “I’m always amazed at how generous the celebrities are in donating items that can be sold for charity,” she adds.

The Rip-off Britain series is another favourite with her. “I think we came along at just the right time with that brand,” she states. “The recession was just beginning and people felt even more aggrieved if they were being ripped off.”

She is proud of the fact that the evening version draws a regular audience of 5.5 million viewers “and the daytime programme has very respectable figures, too,” she asserts.Work is plainly far from drying up for the evergreen presenter but she’s quick to state that she actually wants to work. “I enjoy work, and I’d hope to keep on working for as long as people want me to,” she adds.

She and her second husband, Stephen Way, live in Sevenoaks, Kent, and family life is obviously very important to her. Her presenter daughter, Caron Keating, died from breast cancer after a brave fight in 2004 and any parent can start to imagine the personal devastation that brought.

“I’ve had loss before, but nothing prepares you for the terrible darkness that descends when a child dies,” says Gloria. “It’s like trying to climb out of a big hole by your fingertips and, just when you think you’re at the top, something drags you back.

“I felt like that for a long time, and many of the people who contacted us when Caron died – we had more than 8,000 letters – said it never really goes away.”

But one person’s letter did strike a chord with Gloria, and showed the way ahead for her. It was someone who

pointed out the importance of carrying Caron’s spirit forward, “I just felt then that I knew what I wanted to do,” she recalls.

Gloria founded the Caron Keating Foundation, administered by the family and with all the funds raised being used to help charities concerned with all kinds of cancer.

The result is that, over the past years, the foundation has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds which have gone to projects at 47 different cancer charities all around the country.

This is obviously a source of some consolation to Gloria and her family, although you suspect that Caron is in her thoughts every day. “Someone said that people never die if they remain on the lips of the living,” she states, “and I believe that.”

“ I enjoy work, and I’d hope to keep on working for as long as people want me to”


Divorce can be a stressful enough process without the worry for newly single people of how they are going to cope financially after the split is finalised. A rising number of couples are divorcing almost at the point of retirement – where many wives have had no major financial responsibility for the whole of their married lives.

Joan Goss is the Head of the Family department at QualitySolicitors Abney Garsden in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport. She specialises in all aspects of family law including divorce, separation, children, financial disputes connected with divorce and cohabitation. Joan offers considerable experience, knowledge and expertise. For an initial free chat she can be contacted on 0161 482 8822.

According to the ONS, more than 50,000 over-50s were divorced last year – a rise of 10 per cent on 1999. A new study by Tesco Bank has revealed that only a quarter (26 per cent) of the women surveyed who divorced in their fifties were involved in big financial decisions whilst they were married. The study also showed that one in four

never considered saving, a third had never applied for a mortgage and 10 per cent have never had any financial products or accounts in their name.

And yet, post-divorce, most of these women have to set up a home, open bank and savings accounts and seriously consider their financial future for the very first time. That said, nearly two thirds (64 per cent) stated that divorce gave them a sense of financial freedom, and a similar number (63 per cent) said that sorting out their finances was quite empowering, helping them to focus through the trauma. Interestingly, this contrasts sharply with the men surveyed, of whom only a third agreed with this sentiment. Man or woman, divorce can be emotionally draining for all.

As well as the usual issues couples going through divorce have to face, such as how to decide who keeps the house and how to divide possessions and savings, over 50s are also faced with the dilemma of who has the right to whose pension. In fact, for people over 50 who have had time to accrue a substantial retirement fund, this can be the biggest financial issue to resolve in a divorce case. Women in particular often opt to keep the family home as part of the divorce settlement rather than claiming their entitlement to their partners pension fund. However, the benefits of funding retirement may outweigh those of

Increase in Divorce for the over 50s

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DIVORCE

YEARSIN LATER

retaining the property, particularly in the current climate which has seen house prices fall in the past four years.

If you are contemplating Divorce you should consider the following:-

RETIREMENT – PENSION RIGHTS

A pension can often be one of the largest matrimonial assets of a long marriage. If a husband has been the main breadwinner in the family and is a member of an occupational pension scheme, or even been contributing to a private scheme, or both, he is likely to have built up a considerable fund. The spouse with the smaller pension can consider obtaining a share of the larger pension or alternatively taking a bigger share of other assets. A spouse who has little or no National insurance contributions of their own can have their state pension entitlement based upon their former spouse’s contributions if that would give them a larger pension. The State Second Pension is an additional resource that can be shared on divorce.

THE FAMILY HOME

The matrimonial home is likely to be mortgage-free and in the present housing market another large matrimonial asset. This means that there is more to divide but it is often the case that there are insufficient funds to purchase properties for both husband and wife. It can be difficult at this stage in their lives for either party to obtain a mortgage and if either the husband or wife is not working then it is important that he/ she is able to purchase a property mortgage-free. Where the parties are younger and there are dependent children, the needs of those children have to be given first priority in any divorce settlement whereas once the children have flown the nest, the usual division of property is on an equal basis. It is important that legal advice is sought at this stage in case there are specific issues which need to be taken into account when considering a divorce settlement. These issues can be such things as earning capacity and any special needs either party may have.

MAINTENANCE

For older couples there may be a large difference in the earning capacity of husband and wife. On separation or divorce, therefore, the lowest earner may have difficulties in making ends meet and the question of maintenance may have to be addressed. Even in the higher income group the standard of living enjoyed whilst a couple are together has a bearing on how much maintenance they should receive. This can be a very complex area and it is important that legal advice is obtained by both parties.


As motorists prepare for chilly early morning starts and freezing weather conditions, nationwide independent garage scheme Trust My Garage is advising drivers in Bristol to keep their cars WARM this winter.

We all know that we should carry out weekly checks on our cars to make sure they are roadworthy – but few of us actually do.

In fact, a survey carried out earlier this year by Trust My Garage found that 84% of motorists do not carry out basic, regular checks on their vehicles. By neglecting simple tasks, such as checking oil levels and engine coolant, motorists are in danger of causing engine damage which is always a costly problem and can result in the inconvenience of having no car at all.

However, by pledging to keep your car WARM this winter, you can be sure that everything is working as

it should be when you take to the road over the next few months.

What doesWARM mean?

WARM is a very simple, easy-to-remember acronym that can act as a checklist for the parts of your car you should check regularly to ensure that, together with regular servicing, you are keeping your vehicle safe and fit for winter weather conditions.

W is for WIPERS...Windscreens must be kept clear of dirt and debris for obvious reasons.

Check wipers and the windscreen are in good condition by giving

them a quick examination every week.

If rain doesn’t clear from the windscreen properly or there are smears when the blades wipe from side to side, then it is time to consider changing them. The blades become worn with time and if they are used frequently, debris can eat away at the edge of the wiper.

Winter weather can also make the rubber on the wipers brittle, which means they are more prone to cracks and splits.

Reduced visibility due to badly performing windscreen wipers can jeopardise your safety – and for just a few pounds blades can easily and quickly be replaced.

A is for ANTIFREEZE...Antifreeze is a component of most but not all engine coolants. Having the right concentration of coolant in the engine is essential if it is to work efficiently.

Check the water coolant reservoir every week to ensure the liquid inside is at maximum level. If it begins to drop there could be a leak in the system, so it is crucial you get it checked out.

If you need to top up your antifreeze, make sure you use the type that is right for your vehicle by checking in the handbook or consulting your local Trust My Garage member.

R is for RUBBER...Are your types correctly inflated? Do they have the right amount of tread?

Both are important to keep you safe on the roads. Over-inflation or under-inflation can affect steering and braking, while tyres that do not have at least 1.6mm tread – the

Keep your car WARM this winter with the help of a local trusted garage

FEATURE


Top ten tips for 2014As the New Year gets underway you might be turning your thoughts to making resolutions. Whether you’re giving something up or making a few lifestyle changes, New Year is the time to get into goods habits with your money matters too.

To help keep you motivated, the Financial Ombudsman Service gives us their top tips for 2014:

Set a spending budget: If you’re taking up an activity or joining a new class it will inevitably cost you some money. Set yourself a weekly or monthly budget and stick to it to make sure you’re not overstretching yourself. If you need equipment – like swimming gear – look online for discount vouchers as it could save you a fortune.

Set a savings budget: If you’re giving up a bad habit why not use the spare funds to boost your savings. Small changes like quitting smoking or ditching that weekly takeaway could add over £1,000 a year to your savings pot. Shop around for the best savings plan or ISA to store your new found funds in but don’t be drawn in by high introductory interest rates – you may find you lose out if the rate decreases after a few months.

Clear out the clutter: Taking stock of your accounts can make managing your money much easier. Ask your bank for a list of your existing direct debits and standing orders. If you’re paying for things you don’t recognise or use, consider cancelling them – but tell the business involved first. Having separate savings and spending accounts can be helpful if you’re trying to avoid the temptation of dipping into your rainy day funds.

Out with the old: You wouldn’t pay more than is necessary for an item in a shop so why do we pay more than we need for our insurance? A lot of policies will automatically renew after 12 months – but they may not always offer you the best price. Taking the time to shop around for the best deals before you decide whether or not to renew can save you a fortune in the long-run.

Pursue an interest: Interest rates on credit cards can change, so it’s worth reviewing your current rate – you might find that there is a better offer available. These can range from short-term zero interest deals to fixed interest rates for the life of the balance. Compare offers on accounts and you might find a better rate for your savings.

Face your fears: If you think that you’re going to go overdrawn, have an insurance claim or are struggling to meet your repayments talk to your bank or insurer as soon as possible. Burying your head in the sand can only make things worse. Tell them about the situation – they might be able to help you sort things out.

If you’ve made a complaint and are still unhappy, the ombudsman service might be able to help on www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk or find us on twitter @financialombuds.

minimum legal requirement for cars and light vans – might struggle on wet or slippery road conditions, especially when braking sharply. Having tyres with sufficient tread will also help to prevent skidding and aquaplaning, which happens in the wet when traction is lost and the car is lifted by water on the road.

M is for MAINTENANCE...Cars are expensive pieces of equipment that most of us rely on daily, so it doesn’t make sense to neglect their maintenance. A few basic checks every week and a regular service at your trusted dealer means that your car, whether an old banger or a top-of-the-range sports car, can serve you for a good few miles yet.

How else can I keep my car WARM?

A simple service from a local Trust My Garage (TMG) member can ensure that your vehicle is safe and fit for driving. TMG members have access to technical information and expertise to ensure that your vehicle remains roadworthy. These garages are experts and can make sure vital components of your car are operating correctly to keep you safe on the road in winter weather conditions.

Where is my local Trust My Garage member?

To locate your nearest Trust My Garage member and take advantage of quality service at an affordable price, simply log on to www.trustmygarage.co.uk and type in your postcode to see a list of Trust My Garage members in your area. Members of Trust My Garage are true professionals – local independent businesses which are part of the community. Trust My Garage is the truly independent scheme for independent garages.

71-73 Dane Road, Sale, M33 7BP.0161 973 5581

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Charles Braddock Cars LtdBOSCH Car ServiceFamily owned and run for three generations!

MOT testing, servicing andrepairs to most makes.


Grandparents RightsIt is often the case where a couple get divorced or separate that contact between grandparents and their grandchildren is significantly reduced or, in some cases denied completely. In these current times more grandparents than ever are providing regular childcare and often financial support for their children and grandchildren.

Some statistics indicate that more than 40% of grandparents are missing out on the special relationship with their grandchildren following a family break up. Many grandparents are unsure of their rights and confused about the remedies available at law to them.

Many people are aware that grandparents do not have an automatic right in law to make application for contact with their grandchildren. However this is not an insurmountable hurdle. A grandparent can make an application for permission to issue proceedings for an Order to see their grandchildren.

However any grandparent who can demonstrate a genuine attachment to the child and desire to continue contact will almost certainly be allowed to make an application for a Contact Order.

There is no legal presumption that grandparents should have contact with their grandchildren following the separation of a family. However applications are decided on what is considered to be what is in the best interests of a child’s welfare, which are paramount.

The law recognises that it is in a child’s best interests to maintain the relationship with all members of their close family. Most Courts will assume that each of the parents will allow contact with extended family, at least on their own side, even if not that of their ex partner or spouse, but sadly family politics often means that this is not the case.

Grandparents need to be confident in realising that their relationship with their grandchild is of benefit to that child even if the parents of the grandchildren do not or cannot recognise it for themselves.

The problems suffered by grandparents often arise as a result of the breakdown of trust between the parties when a relationship breaks down. A Court Application for contact is unlikely to re-build that particular trust but if direct discussions are unsuccessful then mediation an also offer a less confrontational platform for the parties to negotiate. There is “child focused”

mediation which allows the child’s views to be taken into account if they are of an age where this is appropriate.

If progress cannot be made other than making an Application for a Contact Order through the Court, the Court’s discretion is wide and can include creative solutions to enable grandparents and their grandchildren to remain in touch even across significant distances and international borders. They can include anything from direct contact, to telephone calls, emails and letters and can also make provision for such things as guaranteed acceptance of birthday and Christmas gifts.

Should you wish further advice or information regarding contact proceedings for your grandchildren then please contact :

Iain Jones, Chronnell Hibbert Solicitors, 11 Hyde Road, Woodley, Stockport, Cheshire SK6 1QG.

Tel : 0161 494 6085

Peter Ward, Chronnell Hibbert Solicitors, 18 Reynold Street, Hyde, Cheshire SK14 1LY

Tel : 0161 368 3434


Yo u r L o c a l S p e c i a l i s t S o l i c i t o r s0161 368 34340161 494 6085

Chronnell Hibbert is a well-established practice providing legal services to individuals, families and small businesses from its offices in Hyde and Woodley, local to Denton.

We also cover other areas of law, to find out more visit www.chronnells-denton.co.uk

Wills & ProbateWe give specialist advice to the elderly in planning their affairs including Powers of Attorney and minimising their exposure to the local authority taking their assets if they have to go into an elderly persons home. Early advice is recommended in these situations which need to be planned for some time ahead.

ConveyancingWe at Chronnell Hibbert understand that buying or moving home is a big investment. Oftentimes the process is stressful and time-consuming. Our property conveyancing solicitors are here to help. We are committed to providing all the support and legal advice you need.

Divorce & Family LawAt Chronnell Hibbert, our dedicated family department consists of a team of understanding and sympathetic solicitors who are highly qualified in all aspects of family law and specialise in divorce.

Whether you need to resolve financial disputes or have issues regarding childcare or domestic violence, we can be of assistance.

For further information please call Anna Perry or David Williams on 0161 368 3434 or email [email protected] or [email protected]


FOOD & DRINK - LOW FAT WINTER WARMERS

OLD FASHIONED CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE STEWThe cider and bacon add a touch of sweetness and extra flavour to the chicken and veg, making this a lovely supper dish. Keep it low-fat by removing the skin from the chicken legs before cooking and using as little oil as possible for browning the meat and vegetables.

freezer bag. Strip the skin off the chicken legs and put them on a board. Break the joint of each leg by bending it in the opposite direction. You may hear a small crack. Cut each leg quarter in half with a sturdy knife to give 8 chicken portions. Using a good set of kitchen scissors, trim off any visible fat.

Put the chicken portions in the freezer bag, a few at a time, and shake well until they are evenly coated in the flour. Heat the oil in a large non-stick fying pan over a medium heat and fry the chicken, a few pieces at a time, until golden brown all over. As they are browned, transfer the chicken pieces to a large flameproof casserole dish. Preheat the oven to 1800C/Fan 1600C/Gas 4.

Put the bacon, onions and celery in the pan used for browning the chicken and fry for 4-5 minutes over medium heat until lightly browned, stirring often.

SERVES 4

3 tbsp plain flour2 tsp dried thyme4 chicken leg quarters2 tbsp sunflower oil4 rashers of rindless smoked back bacon, cut into 1cm-wide strips2 medium onions, chopped2 celery sticks, thinly sliced150g small chestnut mushrooms, wiped and sliced or quartered if large500ml bottle of dry cider300ml chicken stock, (made with 1 chicken stock cube)2 bay leaves400g Chantenay or other small fat carrots, trimmed and peeled2 slender leeks, trimmed and cut into 2cm slicesflaked sea saltfreshly ground black pepper.

METHOD

Mix the flour and thyme with a good pinch of salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper in a large strong

Add the mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes more, then tip everything into the casserole dish with the chicken pieces. Sprinkle in any flour remaining in the freezer bag and stir well.

Pour about half the cider into the frying pan and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon to lift any sediment from the bottom. Simmer for a few seconds, then pour into the casserole. Add the rest of the cider and the stock, then stir in the carrots and bay leaves and bring to a simmer on the hob.

Cover with a lid and cook in the centre of the over for 1 hour, then remove the casserole from the oven and stir in the leeks. Pop the dish back into the oven for a further 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickened. Serve with some green beans or spring onions.

435 Calories per portion.

Si King and Dave Myers are self-confessed food lovers. Food isn’t just fuel to them, it’s their life. But like many of us they’ve found that the weight has crept on over the years.

Si and Dave have come up with tasty recipes that are low in calories and big in flavour, and many we have featured in 50 Plus Magazine.

This is real food for real people, not skinny minnies. They are ideas for family meals.


LAMB, SPINACH AND POTATO CURRYThis is a low-cal version of Dave’s favourite curry - saag gosht - becuase he couldn’t bear to it give it up. If you are running short of time, cut out the fresh garlic, ginger and chilli - the curry will still taste great. The recipe contains potatoes so there is no need to serve it with extra rice.

SERVES 6

600g lamb leg steaks(about 4 steaks)1 tbsp sunflower oil2 large onions, roughly chopped4 large garlic cloves, peeled and roughly chopped25g chunk of fresh root ginger, peeled and roughly chopped1 plump fresh chilli, (deseeded if you like)75g medium or mild curry paste (depending on your taste)400g can of chopped tomatoes350g potatoes, preferably MarisPipers, peeled and cut into 3cm chunks450ml water2 bay leaves1 tsp flaked sea salt, plus extra for seasoning the meat1 tsp caster sugar3 ripe medium tomatoes, quartered100g young spinach leavesfreshly ground black pepper

METHOD

Trim the lamb of any hard fat and cut the meat into rough chunks of about 3cm. Season with salt and pepper. Heat a teaspoon of the oil in a large non-stick frying pan and fry the lamb in 2 batches until lightly coloured on all sides. Transfer the lamb to a plate as soon as each batch is browned.

Heat the remaining oil in a large flameproof casserole dish and add the onions. Cook over a medium heat for

6-8 minutes until they’re softened and lightly browned, stirring regularly. Turn down the heat, add the garlic, ginger, chilli and curry paste and cook for 5 minutes more, stirring frequently.

Remove from the heat and blitz the onion mixture with a stick blender until blended to a purée. Or you can let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then blend it in a food processor before tipping it back into the casserole. Return the casserole to the hob over a medium heat. Preheat the oven to 1900C/Fan 1700C/Gas 5.

Add the browned lamb to the spiced onion purée in the dish and cook over a gentle heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring. Add the chopped tomatoes, potatoes, water, bay leaves, teaspoon of salt and sugar. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then cover with a lid and place the casserole in the oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened. Check after 1 hour and give the contents of the casserole dish a good stir.

Take the dish out of the oven and remove the lid. Stir in the quartered tomatoes and spinach leaves. Cover once more and return to the oven for a further 5 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and the spinach has wilted. Serve hot with some spoonfuls of fat-free yoghurt if you fancy.

293 calories per portion.

SCRAMBLED EGGS WITH SMOKED SALMON

SERVES 2

4 medium eggs1 tbsp freshly snipped chives, plus a few extra to garnish(optional)15g butter4 slices of smoked salmon (about 75g)1 English muffin, cut in halfflaked sea saltfreshly ground black pepper

METHOD

Beat the eggs with a pinch of flaked sea salt and lots of freshly ground black pepper. Use a metal whisk and make sure you beat the eggs really well. Stir in the chives if you’re using them.

Melt the butter in a medium non-stick saucepan over a low heat. Pour the beaten eggs into the pan and cook very gently for 2 minutes, stirring slowly until the eggs are softly scrambled. Remove from the heat and stir for a few seconds more - the eggs will continue to cook for a while.

While the eggs are cooking, toast the muffin and put 1 half on each plate, cut side up. Spoon the scrambled eggs over the muffins, add the slices of smoked salmon and season with a little more black pepper. Garnish with extra chives if you wish. Serve immediately.

354 calories per portion

This is a treat - light but tasty and packed with protein. It takes next to no time to prepare and makes a really special weekend breakfast or brunch. Shows that you can breakfast like a king and still keep the calories under control.

31


Niki Schäfer shares her tips on creating an Art Deco look:

1. The incredibly glamorous Art Deco period spans from 1920 – 1939 and epitomises the opulence of inter-war Britain. The period was characterised by modern, sleek designs with a luxurious use of materials. The New York’s Chrysler building, The Savoy and Sybil Colefax were icons of this era, look to them for inspiration on a smaller scale! 2. The luxury and decadence was increasingly noticeable in contrast to the austerity of the First World War. The use of rare and exotic woods and materials such as ivory, shagreen (imitation shark skin) and

mother of pearl was familiar to this era. Decorate using an excess of mirrors, satins and pale leathers.

3. The Art Deco period was heavily influenced by international style, so perhaps use lacquer as a finish on furniture, a design style developed from China. The period also admired enormously style icons of the era such as Eileen Gray.

4. The era was nicknamed the ‘Cocktail Age’ so for true Art Deco style track down walnut cocktail cabinets in a stepped shape, symbolic of the Aztec pyramids that were also hugely popular at the time.

5. Advances in technology moved towards a more ‘streamlined’ look. Every day objects such as radios became streamlined, swayed by

TOP TIPS: ART DECO


Transform your existing conservatory into a room for all seasons...

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the aerodynamic shapes cut from ocean liners and Zeppelins.

6. Choose fringed lighting and fitted furniture to incorporate an Art Deco look into your home without creating an overwhelming look. Try Tiger Moth Lighting for some wonderful fringed metal lamps and pendants.7. Search for cantilevered chairs made popular by Marcel Breuer and Miles van Der Rohhe, who made the most of technology advances fashioning original and modern styles from new materials. The Barcelona Chair is another popular design choice, still contemporary today and found in many modern homes and offices.

8. To truly emulate the ‘elite’ style you need to find the original

HOME - INTERIORS

By Niki Schäfer, MD of Dwell-Being

Interior Designer, Speaker and Author of ‘Creating Space’

www.dwell-being.co.uk

pieces. The technology advances spurred the creation of imitation products made from cheap materials, which led to the eventual end of the era.

9. Rugs were hugely popular throughout this period. Search for wild geometrical shapes in a spectrum of bold colours to liven up any room. Imitation zebra and other wild animal skins are widely available as fabrics nowadays, and if you’re feeling extra brave use some flocked wallpaper in the same design.

10. If you live and breathe for Art Deco inspired design then take a visit to La Maison de Verre in Paris, or slightly closer to home stay at The Park Lane Hotel and dine in Claridges.


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Before

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For a free brochure and no obligation survey

miss having them around?skype the grandkids

question about your savings? talk to the ombudsman (or fi nd us online)

0300 123 9 123fi nancial-ombudsman.org.ukhonest answers – to help you move on

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Accessibility ProblemsThere comes a time in our lives when everyday tasks become a little harder than they used to be. Bathing is one of those, and may no longer be an enjoyable experience. If that is the case for you, then maybe it is time to consider changing the facilities you use.

Enjoy a Relaxing BathLivsol have a full range of easy access baths in a variety of styles and sizes. If you �nd it hard getting in and out of your current bath tub, then this maybe the thing for you. Whether you want to sit or lay down, the British manufactured units will certainlymeet the highest of expectations.

The Ease of ShoweringThere are so many bene�ts to having a shower; it is refreshing, it is quick and for most of us it is easy. However that is not the case for everyone. General di�culties include standing up whilst showering and getting in and out of the bath which could lead to a risk of slipping and possible injury.

With our shower cubicles, light weight sliding doors, �tted seats and low lip shower trays, we address all the main problems some people have.

Unique Wetroom DesignIn some cases, a wetroom is required to make bathing easy. With contemporary design and user-friendly facilities, Livsol can install the perfect wetroom meeting all your requirements. From easy access shower units to aesthetically pleasing tiling, we take everything into consideration when designing your unique wetroom.

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It may be that you would like to ditch those specs and improve your EYESIGHT. Laser surgery has come on remarkably in the last few years, so shop around for the best and most trusted treatment.

Certainly, for many of us, our wish-list contains COSMETIC SURGERY for a crooked nose, saggy chin or to get rid of those frown lines. Choose a reputable clinic or salon and give yourself the face or other identified body part you’ve always wanted.

Are you one of the estimated third of people in the UK who suffer with sleep problems? When you sleep, your body rests and restores its

Most of us treat a New Year in the same way – we mentally list all the things we want to change in the next 12 months …. but then do little about it until the next new year!

Well, here’s the chance to make 2014 YOUR year and change all those areas of your life with which you’re unhappy. And that doesn’t necessarily just apply to your home and your job but also the shape you’re in and many of the things you might like to change about yourself if you just could.

For a start, are you happy with the shape you’re in? Even the most gorgeous celebrities or top models complain about some element of their bodies, so the rest of us are bound to have a list of “improvements”!Weight is an obvious one. So, if you’ve been promising yourself to drop a few pounds – or a stone or two – join a slimming club now, or put yourself on a good WEIGHT-LOSS programme.

Start this journey with a quick visit to your GP, of course, to check that there’s no medical stumbling blocks involved but after that – ready, steady, slim!

Complement your shape as the pounds disappear, too, with a new approach to your FITNESS regime.

Gym membership these days is generally very economical, especially if you attend regularly, and you’ve got the added bonus of having expert help on hand and being surrounded by like-minded people.

Make a gym visit part of your regular routine as a way of ensuring you keep happy and healthy – and trimmer – and you’ll keep that hard-won weight-loss off for good.

For those with limited mobility, the risk of falling in a bathroom is high.As we get older, falls can become a major health problem so maintaining a safe home environment is essential. Everyday tasks that most people take for granted can become an actual danger for those with limited mobility.

Perhaps you want to try out a NEW HAIRSTYLE – a fresh, shorter look or a change of colour. Consult your hairdresser and take his or her advice on cut, condition and just what suits you.

Consider finally getting your dental work sorted out or having your TEETH WHITENED if you’re unhappy with your smile. It is, after all, often the first thing that people notice about you and there are plenty of excellent treatments around. Your dentist can advise here.

Make 2014 Your Year!By Angela Kelly

Laser surgery has come on remarkably in the last few years, so shop around for the best and most trusted treatment


energy levels. It involves a carefully balanced release of specific hormones which aid in your health, repair and regenerate tissues and appears to strengthen the immune system. Chiropractic may help individuals who suffer with sleep difficulties. Our bodies’ inability to cope with stress can disrupt our natural hormone cycles. Lack of sleep can be caused by an overproduction of the hormone adrenaline, which places our body into the “fight or flight” response. This natural protective response used to be a survival mechanism which saved us from short term threats such as the sabre tooth tiger thousands of years ago. Long term it can have detrimental effects on our health such as an increase in blood pressure and digestive problems. At our Chiropractic Wellness Clinics we analyse our patients stress levels using NASA technology. This fantastic equipment literally allows us to see why the patient is not sleeping well and help restore them to a peaceful night’s sleep

This may be the year that you decide to MOVE HOUSE. The housing market is definitely much more buoyant and all the signs are good for getting the home of your dreams. Local estate agents and mortgage advisors are always happy to help you with your personal home possibilities.

Or, it could be that you like your current address but want to put in an EXTENSION or CONSERVATORY. A local builder can give you a quote without charge for an extension, and it’s certainly worth talking to an architect about making the most of this planned space first. They’re the experts on coming up with clever plans and utilising extensions in the most practical way to suit your family’s lifestyle.

If you go online to see the kinds of extensions and conservatories available, you can mix and match the best of ideas to suit your plans.

Your property may just need the kind of brightening up that a good DECORATOR can provide. Sometimes, changing the colourscheme and furnishings really cheers up rooms and transforms the home.

It may be that you’re at that stage of life when you want to DOWNSIZE, perhaps realise some of the capital in your property. If you’re in those golden years and want tailor-made accommodation, it’s definitely worth considering a retirement village or sheltered accommodation.

You may decide that a New Year is just the time to change from struggling along with a large and expensive property to something more suitable and economical. There is a wealth of suitable places these days, including comfortable modern apartments needing the minimum of maintenance, and with staff on-site to support you daily. And the bonus is that you’re in a community of older people also determined to enjoy life!

Of course, it may be that you’ve been promising yourself that special HOLIDAY for several years. So, this could well be the time to consider going to Australia or New Zealand, Macau or Malibu. Consult a reliable travel agent for the kind of personal service you’ll need for the trip of a lifetime.

“I'm in pain”CAN CHIROPRACTIC HELP ME?

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Your initial visit will include:• A private consultation with chiropractor• X rays if necessary (normally £60)• Spinal examination, orthopaedic and

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It may be that you’ve got a close relative or friend in a far-flung spot that you’d love to visit but never thought you could. Now is just the time to see if this is a possibility, and how it could be achieved.

Perhaps you’re determined to finally go to a special SPORTING OCCASION, like the Winter Olympics in Russia in February, the World Twenty20 cricket in Bangladesh in April or the Masters’ golf in Augusta that month.

Again, your travel can create a personal travel itinerary that will ensure you realise your dream trip, and enjoy the experience every bit as much as you thought you would.

Your New Year Resolutions may be far more modest than any of these, although they may well enhance your life just as much. You may decide that in 2014 you will definitely QUIT SMOKING so take a good look at all the products around to actively help you with this – there’s everything from patches to e-cigarettes these days, hypnotherapists and local health expert support on offer so there’s really no excuse.

Or you may have decided to LEARN a musical instrument or a foreign language. All it takes is that initial decision that you’re not going to leave things for another year. You’re not simply going to say “I wish I could ….” You’re actually going to do it!


Hearing loss is a common problem and many of us will experience some hearing difficulty as we get older. But this isn’t something we have to suffer with and there are many ways in which to seek help if you feel you need it.

Action on Hearing Loss estimate that in the UK around 10 million people have some degree of hearing impairment or deafness and 6.3 million of this total are of retirement age. This problem usually develops gradually over time, due to age or repeated exposure to loud noise, although, a small group of people may experience sudden hearing loss.

Our hearing is a complicated process and the ear is made up of three different parts which help us do this; the outer ear, the middle ear and the inner ear.

The outer ear is the external part which we see on the side of our heads. This section is attached to the ear canal, which is the passage in which sound travels. The middle ear is a small cavity filled with air and contains three important bones called ossicles. When sound hits the ear drum, it vibrates and these vibrations are passed onto these bones Finally, the inner ear contains

a vital part known as the cochlea. This is a coiled tube with two fluid filled chambers. Here there are 17,000 hair cells, each with a structure known as stereocilla. The sound waves passed along the ear cause these to move which sends an electrical sign down the auditory nerve to our brain, where it is recognised as sound.

Hearing loss is the result of sound signals not being able to reach the brain. There are two types of hearing loss. The first is where there is damage to the sensitive hair cells in the inner ear caused by either age or injury, known as sensorineural hearing loss. The second is where sound can’t pass through the ear due to a blockage, usually caused by a build up of earwax or an ear infection. This is called conductive hearing loss.

Some people may experience both of these types and this is known as mixed signal hearing loss.

The main symptoms of hearing difficulty are not hearing people clearly or misunderstanding what someone says, having to ask someone to repeat themselves several times and finding yourself needing music or the television on a high volume to be able to hear.

HEALTH

Vastly improve your quality of life for years to come

Experts say that age is the most common cause of hearing loss. Everyone will experience some form of this as they get older and by age 80, most people will have significant hearing problems.

However, noise induced hearing damage is very common. People who find themselves regularly exposed to very loud noises, usually at work, are most at risk, such as construction workers using pneumatic drills, or those who are employed in bars and nightclubs. Those regularly attending loud music concerts and events can also be at risk.

This can also be a cause of tinnitus, which is where a person experiences a constant ringing or buzzing inside their ears.

If you think you are experiencing hearing loss, you should see a specialist hearing aid dispenser as soon as possible as there are many

options out there to help. They will give you a simple hearing test and examine the inside of your ear to look for any problems and are qualified to identify any medical contra-indications for onward referral to an ENT consultant etc.In most cases, people who are experiencing hearing problems will be fitted with a hearing aid. There are many types available depending on the person and the problem.

Prentice Professional Partners provide help and advice to those who are experiencing difficulties with hearing loss, as well as access to try out the technologies that may be of help – completely free of charge.

Their latest technology includes an invisible hearing aid, which will help those who do have hearing issues and need a device to help them in their everyday lives, but do not want it to be visible.

Figures show that around four million people in the UK could benefit from a hearing aid but do not wear one.

Action on Hearing Loss audiology specialist, Crystal Rolfe, told NHS Choices: “Many people are put off by the idea of wearing hearing aids because they think they are unsightly,”

“We need a new attitude to hearing aids. Wearing them should be as unremarkable as wearing glasses.”

It is important that if you are experiencing any issues with hearing loss that you get the necessary help you need. There are many options out there to make your hearing better and vastly improve your quality of life for years to come.

Written by Kelly Spencer50 Plus Magazine.

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HEALTH

Quality dentures mean a quality lifestyle The Importance of DenturesThe eyes, nose and teeth are the focal points of every face; they give the first impressions of your personality.

Natural teeth grow in proportion and in harmony with your facial features and your dentures should be made accordingly.

Your teeth, or your dentures, have many important functions: to support your facial muscles, to help formulate your speech, and most importantly to chew your food and start the digestive process.

It is very important to chew food properly, as poorly chewed food will take longer to digest, especially for the elderly who could risk problems in the digestive system.

Difficulties in Constructinga Good Set of DenturesConstructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is the most difficult task in dentistry. We are not only replacing lost teeth, but also lost tissue matter and bone. In other words, we have to re-create your facial features as they were before the loss of your natural teeth.

In most cases we do not know what your teeth looked like, what size they were or what position they were in originally. We have a few indications but mostly we have to rely on our visual and artistic judgement.

At the same time we have to use our technical expertise in order to make the denture stable and functional. Denture construction is more art than science.

Choice of DenturesThere are three main quality standards in denture materials:

Denture Base Acrylics: standard quality, high impact much stronger non brittle and the latest thermoplastic.

Denture Teeth: 2-layer acrylic very basic and cheap, 3-layer acrylic re-enforced much harder, 4-layer composite extra hard and natural looking.

However, good materials on their own will not make good dentures. A skilful and experienced clinician and technician are required. The best results are achieved when the whole job is done by the same person.

How Long Should Dentures Last?The question we should ask is, how long will my dentures be functional for? Dentures can last twenty or more years, but will lose their function (chewing ability, proper fit etc.) probably after two years. This will depend on many factors:

1. Quality of dentures. 2. Age of Patient. 3. General health of patient. 4. Any drastic change in weight.


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Dentures Need Regular ServicingDentures are in constant use almost 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are also in a pretty hostile environment in the mouth, being attacked by strong acid, bacteria, hot, cold and spicy food. Denture material absorbs liquids and food odour.

Daily cleaning is essential as well as professional ultrasonic cleaning in a dental laboratory at least once a year. Due to constant bone resorbtion dentures will become loose sooner or later.

Loose dentures will increase damage to the gums and bone structure, and increase the risk of breakage. Have them re-lined as soon as possible to get a good fit. It only takes a day or two.

Have your dentures inspected by a dentist or denturist at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.

Your Dentures need Attention1. When they become loose.2. When teeth or denture base discolours.3. When tooth surfaces become flat.4. When denture base does not fit around natural teeth

(in partial dentures).5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth.6. When your chin sticks out, and the corners of your lips

are constantly wet, developing sores.7. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

Loose DenturesCan be re-lined by adding a thin layer of the new acrylic to fit the surface of the dentures, making them fit better (takes one or two days).

Dentures with worn down teethTeeth can be replaced with a new set.

Major improvements in Facial FeaturesPadding dentures to reduce lines and fill up sunken cheeks will require a new set of dentures. It is advisable to have a new set of dentures made every 5 to 10 years.

Should I have a spare set of Dentures made?Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage.

Where do I go to havea good set of Dentures made?Every dentist can make dentures, but not all of them will specialise in denture making.

Denturists will take the greatest care to make your dentures look natural and fit properly. They can give you and your dentures the time and attention you deserve.

Summary1. Clean your dentures daily with a denture brush and denture cream.2. Have your dentures inspected every two years, and re- lined or ultra-sonically cleaned.3. Have a new set made every 5 years if possible.4. Keep a spare set for emergencies.5. Remember, dentures do not have to hurt and do not need to be uncomfortable.6. With a new set of dentures, you should receive a written guarantee, a detailed prescription of the materials used in your dentures, cleaning and servicing instructions, and a cleaning kit.7. Dentures so life-like you'd think they were real.


ANN Widdecombe tucked surprisingly dainty feet under her and sat happily recounting highlights from a career that has taken her from Parliament to “Strictly Come Dancing.”

The former Tory minister was part-way through a hectic book tour to publicise her very entertaining autobiography, “Strictly Ann,” and was taking time out for a quick chat and a welcome cuppa.

She is 66 now,

with a big personality belied by her petite stature, but with the same feisty nature that turned her into a scourge of the Opposition and a staunch defender of Catholic values. It also complemented a formidable intellect honed at Oxford University where she was active in the Oxford Union.

“Before I got into politics I always thought I’d be a writer,” she explains. “I’d always loved reading and when I was nine or 10 had written two books – if you could call three exercise books bound together a book.”

Unsurprisingly, when she quit politics she turned to writing and has four successful novels under her belt with

a fifth underway. This latest one, unlike her other books, is a detective novel – “it’s not full of sex, it’s a straightforward detective story,” she states.

However, it was politics which has claimed much of her life, starting with an election trail that began as a candidate in Burnley in 1979. She moved on to try in Plymouth Devonport against Dr David Owen in 1983 before she successfully became MP for Maidstone in 1987.

She had a hard-working and stellar rise up the Conservative Parliamentary ranks to become Minister of State for the Department of Employment in 1994, then for the Home Office in 1995.

In opposition, she was Shadow Health Secretary and Shadow Home Secretary. In 2007 she announced her intention of retiring from politics at the next General Election, and in 2010 her considerable and often controversial presence left the House of Commons for good.

Ask her, however, what was one of the most memorable achievements of her political tenure and she won’t point to a major Bill or campaign. “It was getting one of my constituents out of jail in Morocco,” she says simply. “They really didn’t think it could be done.”

Her trenchant views, no-nonsense approach and – as it transpired – sheer likeability meant that she quickly swapped political status for celebrity status. She already had a strong TV curriculum vitae from fronting various documentaries and from discussion programmes, but the public suddenly got to see her in a new light when she agreed to take part in “Strictly Come Dancing.”

“Several of my friends said ‘what do you want to do Strictly for?’ because they still saw me as a politician,” she recalls. “I knew that I was no longer a politician.

“I’d turned down Big Brother because I hate that kind of intrusive programme, and I could never go on ‘I’m A Celebrity ….. Get Me Out Of Here!’ because I couldn’t eat any of those disgusting things they make you eat.

INTERVIEW: ANN WIDDEcOMBE

STRICTLY ANN


series “Ann Widdecombe Versus” tackling a variety of contemporary problems – she really enjoyed her most recent, quiz show “Cleverdicks” for Sky Atlantic.

“And I really regret that they didn’t re-commission that series because it was great,” comments Ann.

There have been, however, some discussions about Ann and Anton du Beke teaming up for a TV sitcom – “it still seems to be out there although nothing has been decided.”

And she readily admits that she would love to have one of her books made into a film – “who wouldn’t?” is her honest comment.

There are many who believe she should have gone into the House of Lords when her career in the House of Commons ended, but perhaps her opposition to both fox hunting and gay marriage has not made her a special favourite of David Cameron’s.

However, Ann refuses to publicly comment on this one and believes the country should give the Coalition a chance to work properly.

As for future plans, she is open to ideas. “I never plan in detail,” she states. “I just see what comes along.”

What is certain, however, is that the word “retirement” means very little about slowing down for this indefatigable lady. “I’m from a long-lived family, and I don’t understand people who complain about being retired,” she asserts. “I don’t think I could ever do absolutely nothing.”

“But I liked the idea of Strictly. Of course , I was very glad to get Anton du Beke as a partner. One of the earliest things he said to me was ‘Ann, it will be much better if we do our best to keep your feet off the floor.’”

Ann, who threw herself into the gruelling daily rehearsals as she does everything else in life, worked hard. “I’m lucky enough to enjoy pretty good health so I was flung about and didn’t come out with more than the odd bruise,” she says, laughing at the memory.

While the judges were unimpressed with Ann’s efforts, however cleverly choreographed by her partner, the public loved her. Game as always, Ann even agreed to “fly” in on a high-wire – “which I absolutely hated as I’ve got height phobia. I kept my eyes closed during rehearsals, but I had to open them for the broadcast.”

The public vote kept the duo in the hit programme for nine weeks before they left. What did Anton have in mind if they’d reached the final?

“Well, he was going to fly in from one side and I was going to fly in from the other, and we were going to dance in the air!” Ann laughs again. “Yes, the public were denied that.”

Her Strictly appearance did, however, not only lead to an enjoyable live national tour of the show but also to panto. This was in tandem with Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood who had proved to be the biggest critic of Ann’s dancing declaring her a “dis-ah-ster.”

While she has been involved in a variety of other TV programmes – including an excellent documentary

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At the touch of a button, emergencies are responded to within minutes.

What do mobile wardens do?Mobile wardens visit vulnerable customers in an emergency, in the first six months of the year they attended 1250 callouts.

The wardens also carry specialist lifting equipment which helps to lift customers who have fallen and are unhurt.

The wardens are available 24 hours a day, seven days a year and can attend a property at short notice.

Carecall are the only telecare provider offering a mobile warden response service in the Stockport area.

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Carecall is a telecare and mobile warden response service for older and vulnerable people in the Stockport area, providing independence and peace of mind 24 hours a day, every day.

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In 1957, Harold McMillan told the British public ‘we’d never had it so good’ and it was true we were enjoying better health and prosperity. Inevitably, this led to longer life spans, and the phenomena of the sandwich generation.

At the beginning of the 20th century, around 6% of people in their sixties still had one parent living. Today the figure is around 50%. At the same time, in 2000, 52% of young adults were living with their parents, and this figure is still rising. This has led to a situation where couples coming up to retirement are caring for ageing parents, while still supporting their adult children. This is the sandwich generation, worrying about financing their own retirement, their parents and their children. While many 80 year olds are still hale and hearty, there are many who need constant care and attention, resulting in huge stress levels for those responsible for them. If you’re one of these, it’s time to take stock and explore all avenues which could help.

PLAN AHEADDifficult as it may be, you need to discuss issues with your parents. Discuss their

Choosing the right careassets, check with them where they want to live, and who should make legal and medical decisions if they are no longer capable of handling their affairs.

It may be that care in the home is the preferred option, and this is where you need to spend time making sure that all available help from your local council is fully explored, and a correct assessment of necessary care is arrived at.

Check out the Care Quality Commission. This is the independent regulator of health and adult social care in England. It registers care services that meet standards and make constant inspections to check that these standards are kept and take action if standards fall.

Direct Payments are a Government initiative designed to give people the freedom to purchase their own care and support, so since 2002 all Social Services departments offer the option of a Direct Payment to people who receive a social care and support service.

Following an assessment by their local Social Services the person receiving the direct payments can use the money for different types of services.

These include:

• Personal care and support• Day care (including domestic help)• ‘Mixed’ packages of support• Short-term residential care• Items of equipment

Direct Payments can also be used for employing a ‘personal assistant’ or arranging care from a private agency. Your local Social Services team will be able to advise you further. There are many benefits to Direct Payments – they allow a greater level of flexibility and freedom for the person who needs the care and support. By employing a care and support worker directly, there is greater choice as to whom the person has looking after them; what times they come and what tasks they perform. People who are eligible to receive a Direct Payment, instead of their ‘usual’ support include:

• Older People who need social care services • People with physical disability who are over 16• People with a learning disability who are over 16 • Carers over 16• Disabled Parents would receive payments for the needs of their children (non educational)


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Problems with your dentures?From a simple denture repair to implant retained dentures, whatever your denture need, call us on 01625 511 131.

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BuryMarketA Great Day Out

Bury Market Management: Tel: 0161 253 6520 Web: www.burymarket.comEmail: [email protected] : @BuryMarket

Bury Market has a well deserved reputation for friendly service, fantastic produce and great value.

Located off J2 of the M66 and with over 350 stalls open every Full Market Day it’s easy to find and even easier to enjoy!

Bury Town Centre is also home to The Fusilier Museum, East Lancashire Railway, Bury Transport Museum and Bury Art Gallery.

Bury Market Hallopen everydayexcept Sunday

“Winner BBC Radio 4’sFood and Farming Awards”Best Food Market

“Winner NABMA’s”Best Market Attraction

Full Markets OpenWednesdays Fridaysand Saturdays

BuryMarketA Great Day Out

Bury Market Management: Tel: 0161 253 6520 Web: www.burymarket.comEmail: [email protected] : @BuryMarket

Bury Market has a well deserved reputation for friendly service, fantastic produce and great value.

Located off J2 of the M66 and with over 350 stalls open every Full Market Day it’s easy to find and even easier to enjoy!

Bury Town Centre is also home to The Fusilier Museum, East Lancashire Railway, Bury Transport Museum and Bury Art Gallery.

Bury Market Hallopen everydayexcept Sunday

“Winner BBC Radio 4’sFood and Farming Awards”Best Food Market

“Winner NABMA’s”Best Market Attraction

Full Markets OpenWednesdays Fridaysand Saturdays

Documents

Stockport issue 40