MARCH MAY - JULY - MAY 2018 2018
BLACKBURN BOLTON & BURY & BURNLEY RIBBLE58 VALLEY EDITION EDITION 54
James Martin's
AMERICAN ADVENTURE
Joanna Lumley
IT'S ALL ABOUT ME
Plan Your Next Adventure AT AVISTA TRAVEL, CLITHEROE
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Twittering on With Angela Kelly Help -The English Language is being murdered! AS a fan of the English language I get positively bad-tempered when I hear it being mangled and manipulated. It’s not just people who pronounce “th” as “f” or fail to sound the “g” in words ending in “ing” or “endin’” in “in’” as it comes out.
JOANNA LUMLEY
it's all about me tour 14-15
travel
trans canadian rail odyssey 6-7
What really gets my linguistic goat is the current obsession with creating your own words. For example, why put “ness” on the end of a word just because you fancy doing so when a perfectly good word covering that meaning already exists? It’s enough to make you break out in a bout of angriness! And, when one of Radio 4’s presenters told A Point of View that he hated the expression “going forward”, it heralded a flow of listeners’ pet word hates. These included “cheeky” as in “I’m just having a cheeky beer” (why have an insubordinate beer at all then?) and using “so” to start a question (so what has “so” to do with anything?). I’m sure there are plenty of words that irritate people today but among my annoying choices are “meet with” when “meet” is enough on its own, “go figure” (an Americanism that strings two pointless words together).
HOME
SPRING YOUR HOME BACK TO LIFE 19-22
JAMES MARTIN'S AMERICAN ADVENTURE 40-43
It would be easy to blame social media but I actually think that TV and laziness are mostly at fault here. I mean, why bother thinking about the best way to express anything when you can probably construct whole sentences just using trendy modern phrases that mean nothing at all? It’s a no-brainer!
Irritating over-used phrases include “car-crash interview” (upsetting for anyone who has ever been in a car crash and a bit over-the-top for any kind of interview), “going forward” (as opposed to going backwards? What’s wrong with “in the future”?) and “Listen up, people” (more Americanisms used as a means of getting attention: try “Hello, everyone” as an opening gambit). Anyone who tries to qualify “unique” as in “completely unique” is on a loser as “unique” means one of a kind so needs nothing else with it. “Fit for purpose” has become wildly over-used as a “onesize fits all” phrase (another couple of words we hear far too much about and in every kind of situation). “For free” is also one word too many as “free” also stands alone in this context.
Harry and Meghan’s modern fairytale WE do love a Royal Wedding – especially when it involves such a likeable lad as Prince Harry. The comparisons between Meghan and Princess Diana have already been made quite favourably, although time will tell if the former comes close to the latter in the hearts of ordinary people. She’s probably got a long way to go in the charity and personality stakes currently but it is early days. Meghan is already proving to be an effective style icon, especially for the British fashion industry. Every coat and dress she wears to a public occasion tends to sell out immediately. One tiny denim firm now has back orders for three months after the brideto-be wore a pair of £230 black Hiut jeans on a visit to Cardiff. The small company, based in Cardigan in West Wales, has already had to move to a bigger factory to meet demand as
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orders flood in from Paris and New York – all thanks to the Meghan effect.
work colleagues for banter and approval, being your own boss can actually be better for you.
Interestingly, Meghan does seem to be a universally-approved choice of partner for the popular young prince. Even the Queen, who must be hard to impress, has sanctioned the match (both officially and unofficially). It’s probably no real surprise that the public seem to like her as well. In 2018, we are obsessed with celebrities of all kinds and particularly entertainers so to have an actress marrying our prince seems like the right kind of modern fairytale. You just hope, don’t you, that the two of them find their place in society and that they’re happy. Harry needs to have the kind of fulfilling work that a young man with so much energy demands and his new bride will want to step into some kind of meaningful role in public life that allows everyone to get to know her better. In the meantime, let’s just wish them a very happy married life.
Coffee and crème eggs on tap for home-workers WORKING from home – or remote working as it’s known – is a modern trend that has been happily embraced by thousands. An office is now almost an essential home area for the many who have chosen to work either independently or just away from head-office. Now, perhaps not too surprisingly, a study has shown that people who work for themselves are happier, too. In spite of the long hours, the possible stress of finding and keeping work and the lack of
The study, by experts from the universities of Sheffield and Exeter, looked at 5,000 people from various fields around the world. It found that the self-employed felt more engaged with their work, mostly because they enjoyed more freedom around their working environment, took on bigger challenges and met higher standards. There are more than four million people in Britain who spend at least half their time working at home. I’ve been a home-worker for the past 12 years and never regretted the move. Networking provides plenty of opportunities for meeting people and is a genuine source of work offers. And I can wear my PJs until 11am if I want to – provided I don’t Skype anyone. I can have a coffee when I want, stick on a wash load or even binge on Cadbury’s crème eggs between jobs if that’s my choice. No wonder we’re a happier lot!
National Helpline 0800 917 7650 www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
Alcoholics Anonymous has over 4,400 groups throughout Great Britain dedicated to helping those with a serious alcohol problem learn how to stay sober. Groups are made up of people from all walks of life and all age groups. Through friendship and mutual support, members assist each other in coping which is made easier by meeting others with the same problem. There are no dues or fees for membership and anonymity is carefully preserved. Anyone who believes they have a drink problem can contact Alcoholics Anonymous by using the helpline number above or email; help@aamail.org Further information may be obtained from the web site above or from the General Service Office at the address below. For information: P.O. Box 1, 10 Toft Green, York. YO1 7NJ Tel: 01904 644 026
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50 Plus Travel
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Trans Canadian Rail Odyssey
with Titan Tours first impression! One of you has to climb the stepladder to top bunk - not as bad as it sounds as the beds are comfy and a good width. The sink and separate WC are tiny, and storage is extremely limited. While at breakfast, your room steward puts the beds away, so two armchairs create a cosy private space to relax (short for ‘nod off’).
This is a wonderful way to experience Canada, travelling across the Canadian Rockies over 14 nights from Toronto to Vancouver, three nights aboard The Canadian sleeper train plus two days on the prestigious Rocky Mountaineer. Toronto is a fascinating mix of modern high-rise buildings and occasional traditional buildings in the old part of town. It is beautifully lit up after dark, especially the central square opposite Hudson’s Bay Store. After an overnight stay, the full-day trip to Niagara Falls was wonderful! Words such as stunning, amazing, aweinspiring are unavoidable. It was even more spectacular than we expected.
Snow Capped Mountains
From Toronto through industrial areas, vast lakes and dense pine forest then on through Ontario towards Manitoba, where the scenery is more diverse. After a break to explore the city of Winnipeg, there is a definite change in scenery as you travel towards Saskatchewan. Vast plains, yellow wheat fields and a strange ‘singing’ sound of the train along this stretch of the railway, different from before.
We had pre-booked the Hornblower Cruise (optional), and donning red ponchos, chose a spot on the deck for the best views. It was a brilliant experience, under the Falls with a real feel for the power of this tremendous flow of water. After visiting Niagara on the Lake, a pretty village nearby, the day ended at Toronto rail station to catch VIA Rail’s sleeper train, “The Canadian”. Toronto to Jasper Our cabin had private facilities, and a shared shower at the end of the carriage. Bijou is definitely the
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An Activity Coach includes beer-tasting, bingo or a movie, plus free tea, coffee and cakes all day. Three sittings for lunch and dinner, the food is excellent and beautifully presented amazing they can produce such high quality in this environment.
Winnipeg Bridge
Jasper and Banff to the Rocky Mountaineer After brunch, we said good-bye to The Canadian and on to Jasper by coach. This is a fabulous area, rich with lakes and waterfalls and strange rock formations. We stopped at several places to
TRAVEL photograph pale-turquoise lakes and rivers coloured by minerals seeping from the hills. Maligne Lake is a great place to stop, eat at the Chilli Bar, hire a canoe or just enjoy the backdrop of snow-topped mountains. Along the Icefield Parkway is the included excursion onto the Athabasca Glacier. Board the Ice Explorer truck which trundles slowly onto the designated walkways for visitors. Wrap up warm and enjoy the spectacle of this ancient glacier which is shrinking by the day. Two nights in Banff at the excellent Fox Hotel and Suites. Phone rates were reasonable, all rooms had free WiFi, and there is also a free public transport pass which is “not really free, we just paid for you�! Banff has a variety of shops and restaurants, and you might even see a moose or bear wandering around. The first day includes an excursion to Lake
Louise and optional Gondola (cable car) ride plus lunch with an early start next morning to join the Rocky Mountaineer for two days. A delicious breakfast awaited us on board, and we were constantly fed or provided with drinks startin at 9.30am! We enjoyed the luxury of the Gold Leaf service, comfortable seats on the top deck of the sightseeing carriage and a restaurant downstairs. Standard Silver Leaf service is also in comfortable, allocated seating with meals served at your table and plenty of viewing opportunities. Overnight is at The Coast hotel in Kamloops, then back onboard in the morning. We were all sorry to say goodbye to the Rocky Mountaineer. If only you could travel the whole way across Canada in such style! Vancouver Our last 3 nights were spent in central Vancouver. We loved the city, especially
Stanley Park, enjoyed an evening Harbour Cruise dinner, (meeting a racoon in the street on the way home), and a cable-car trip up Grouse Mountain the next day. September was a perfect time to visit and in hindsight, an extension of a few days in Vancouver at the end of the trip would be ideal.
By Jacqueline Jeynes from Silver Travel Advisor. www.silvertraveladvisor.com
Silver Facts: For further information, visit www.titantravel.co.uk and search for Trans Canadian Rail Odyssey or call 0800 988 5803. Quote Silver 17 for any current special offers (various savings available depending on tour and date).
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Robinsons Holidays Wins
3 Top Awards at UK Coach Rally 2018
3 Top awards for Robinsons Holidays - at the 64th UK Coach Rally 2018 - one for driver/ engineer William Brayford, one for their Jonckheere coach, and one for the company itself were presented by the North East Traffic Commissioner, Kevin Rooney. William (Billy) Brayford of Robinsons Holidays, won the prestigious and coveted title of UK Coach Driver of the Year at the national event in Blackpool. To achieve this accolade he underwent a full weekend of gruelling tests to evidence his excellent driving skills. The tests involved road runs and off road driving assessments against 48 other drivers from other coach companies right across the UK. The coach Billy used for the tests was Robinsons oldest in their fleet of 22 - a  2004 registered, Volvo B12B coach with a Jonckheere Mistral 50  body - which has been owned by Robinsons from new and maintained in their own garage throughout. The garage team have done such a great job that the coach too won its own award for being the best Jonckheere in the show, despite much newer ones being in the competition. The more modern coaches in the Robinsons own fleet were all away on tour providing high quality holidays for their passengers. A third award was also presented. This was for the Robinsons Holidays company itself because of its longevity - being the longest established coach company in the competition and known for its heritage and traditional values.
Congratulations to Billy for the individual driver award, to the maintenance team in the garage for the Coach award, and to Robinsons Holidays overall for the company award. Robinsons Holidays, Park Garage, Great Harwood, Blackburn BB6 7SP. Freephone 0800 083 9900 www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk 8
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When it comes to booking holidays, is it wise to use the internet? Most of us cannot imagine life pre-internet and its use when researching holidays cannot be underestimated, but when it comes to parting with your hard-earned cash, it’s pays to be cautious.
Things to consider :
How easy is it to speak to someone? Some online companies don’t display telephone numbers online or make them difficult to find. Even if it’s more convenient to “discuss” your arrangements via email, try calling the company (particularly the after sales department) to see how quickly they answer. Financial Protection - Check for membership of ABTA, or a similar association. Unscrupulous companies may add logos to their website – but always verify current membership. Flights and accommodation booked together should be protected by ATOL, however some companies will sell separately thus dodging the legal requirement. The implication of this is if, for example, the airline fails you could be left to pay for accommodation you cannot use.
Value - It is often said that the internet is cheaper! Occasionally, it may be, especially if the company isn’t bonded, but in most cases a good independent agent will either match a tour operators’ online prices or could even beat them using different suppliers. Bear in mind the cheapest price is still money wasted if the holiday isn’t right for you. A good agent will listen to you and take the time to find the most suitable holiday at the best price. Experience - Anyone can check Trip Advisor, but are the reviewers needs the same as yours? Good agents are usually well-travelled and will draw on the experience of trusted suppliers and satisfied customers. They know the once lovely hotels, which have seen better days and ones which may be swamped with children. They should also highlight additional charges such as resort fees and gratuities. Time Saving - With endless options you might need days to research and book a holiday, why not let an expert take care of all the planning and arrangements!
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Time and tide wait for no man (or woman) Our wedding in Tobago – Valentine’s Day 2018 we managed to get all the paperwork completed correctly. All we needed to do was to look forward to the big day itself.
By Carole Tidball from Silver Travel Advisor We’d planned to exchange our vows whilst standing barefoot on a warm sandy beach, and had chosen the beautiful Caribbean island of Tobago for our wedding as it is one of the few countries that allows on-the-beach ceremonies. The island also offers great birdwatching, deep-sea fishing and snorkelling opportunities, all of which we love.
The Carnival - photo by Terry Lister
After delving into the complexities of overseas weddings, I decided to hand over the planning to the experts and spoke with the lovely Paula at Tropical Sky Weddings. We agreed that the “Classic Wedding Package” at the Blue Waters Inn on the northeast of Tobago promised all we needed and more, including the services of a minister/registrar, witnesses, decorated venue, bouquet and button hole, wedding cake, sparkling wine for a toast, and a champagne boat trip around the bay. We chose February as it’s Tobago’s “dry” season and were delighted to snag Valentine’s Day for our wedding day. As an added bonus, the days preceding our wedding were the Carnival season. Tropical Sky arranged flights, booked the hotel and wedding package, and checked that our Mot, paperwork complied with local regulations. All I had to worry about was ordering our handmade gold Irish warrior/soulmate rings and finding a dress. Sourcing a suitable outfit for a 60-something tropical bride in the middle of a British winter proved too challenging, so I recycled a much-loved slinky red number. A jewelled hairband from Debenhams completed the look. We arrived the week before our wedding to fit in the required residency days prior to travelling to the Ministry in Scarborough at the opposite end of the island to buy a marriage licence. The carnival celebrations caused road and public building closures on several days immediately before our wedding leaving us very tight on time, although
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Our wedding day dawned and we watched in growing disbelief as our wedding venue disappeared, first beneath mountains of seaweed thrown up by an exceptionally high tide and then beneath the tide itself! Our back-up venue was the hotel jetty and our wedding (hotel guest) coordinator Jeannette gamely battled against the wind to decorate the area with balloons and chiffon drapes. However, as the pounding from huge waves started lifting the jetty’s wooden planks, Jeannette declared it unsafe and we relocated to our third choice – a wooden arch on the hotel lawn. Fortunately, our preacher was delayed, allowing time to move the decorations and repair my makeup – I had been howling with tears of laughter. At last, the sun came out and the service itself was magical. I suppressed my surprise at being asked to “obey” my husband (he knows better than to test this). We were not whisked away on our romantic boat trip, but we enjoyed lobster and champagne for our wedding breakfast followed by sumptuous red velvet wedding cake.
Mot Bird
Our Caribbean beach wedding was certainly an adventure. If you’re happy to go with the flow, expect the unexpected and accept that you can’t control the weather, then it’s a great way for a pair of sloppy silver romantics to tie the knot.
Tropical Sky can help create the wedding of your dreams with a dedicated team of experts who are on hand every step of the way. They offer a range of amazing wedding destinations and venues from St. Lucia to the Maldives, and all holidays are ATOL protected for peace of mind. Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk/weddings for more details or call 01342 889166.
QUALITY COACH HOLIDAYS WITH A DOOR 2 DOOR SERVICE Forty Shades of Green 8 Day Extravaganza
Based in WESTPORT DONEGAL and TITANIC BELFAST (Half board throughout). We include excursions to Achill Island, Kylemore Abbey, Glenveagh National Park and the Titanic Belfast. Our classic hotels: the Castlecourt at Westport, Kee’s Hotel at Ballybofey and the Stormont in Belfast.
19-16 June £699
Single Supplement : £129
Konigswinter and the Rhineland
Based At: Maritim Hotel, Konigswinter. We return this year to Germany’s Rhineland and the superior Maritim hotel at Konigswinter. Travelling first to the market town of Beverley then on to Hull for overnight sea crossing on North Sea Ferries. We then make our way across Holland calling first at Valkenberg, before crossing the border into Germany and a mid-afternoon arrival at Konigswinter. Three day excursion package included. Then Back to Hull after a lunch time arrival in the little Dutch town of Sluis.
IRISH -COAST, CLIFFS AND FOLKLORE
Based at SLIGO and STORMONT Our Autumn tour to Ireland is quite different as we head for Belfast in the north of Sligo in the south with loads of interesting visits included. First to Stormont and a guided tour of Belfast City with time for a short browse and lunch before we head west to Sligo. Here we include visits to Lissadell House on Sligo Bay, then up to Glencolmcille Folk Village and Slieve League Cliffs on the Atlantic coast of Donegalthe highest in Europe. Returning to Belfast we include a visit to the Titanic exhibition and a morning photo stop at the Stormont building.
24-29 SEPT
Austria and LAKE GARDA
Based At: Hotel Bergland, Seefeld - Centrale Hotel, Riva-del-Garda. 13 day super holiday to Austria and Italy. First we head for Hull and overnight sea crossings to Zebrugge on North Sea Ferries (meals on-board and side by side berths are included). Next through the lowlands to Germany and half-board overnight accommodation at the superb Park Hotel, Mannheim. Day 3 takes us to Fussen and the Fernpass, then high into the mountains to our base for the next 4 nights, the Bergland Hotel, Seefeld. Day excursions included.
25 Jul-6 Aug £1339
Singles Supplement: £189
13-20 Aug £869
THE SUPER CORNISHMAN
Based at the Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa. An early Autumn visit to one of the country’s most popular seaside resorts, Newquay. Our hotel the Fistral Beach, offers quality accommodation and fayre along with full leisure and spa facilities. Our included excursions take us first for a half day visit to St. Mawes, another day to Penzance and St Ives. A day at the EDEN PROJECT, admission included, and finally to Falmouth and Truro.
23-28 SEPT
£519
£529
Single Supplement : £118
Single Supplement : £189
Single Supplement : £100
BOOK NOW CALL FREEPHONE: 0800 9172862
Reeves Coach Holidays 34 Monks Drive Withnell Chorley PR6 8SG
cambridge, newmarket & the national stud
Based at the Hallmark Hotel, Cambridge Another great short break to Cambridgeshire and a super programme of included visits. First we call at Wimpole Hall and Home Farm (NT) on the way down to the hotel. Next, a guided coach tour of Cambridge then free time to browse the city. We follow this with one of our favourite visits, a tour of the National Stud at Newmarket, time for lunch. A visit to the Museum is also included in the afternoon. Finally to Saffron Walden and a visit to Audley End House and Gardens and to Baddersley Clinton on our way home.
30 SEPT-4 OCT £399
Single Supplement : £68
e: info@reevescoachholidays.com www.reevescoachholidays.com
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Taking My Dog
ON A FOREST HOLIDAY By Natasha Blair from Silver Travel Advisor How glad I was that I didn’t allow my initial feelings of trepidation to influence my stay with Forest Holidays. Being a townie, and despite having a dog, I had never considered taking a holiday in the middle of a forest. Poppy, my Coton du Tulear and I had an unexpected, wonderful, relaxing time. Forest Holidays are spread throughout the country and I chose the one nearest to London, at Blackwood Forest in Hampshire. A big added bonus to this holiday was not having to endure the hassle of airports. The minute we arrived we were immersed in nature. Our cabin was modern, airy, and spacious with, at the back, a hot tub with views of trees as far as the eye could see. A real plus was that Poppy was allowed access everywhere even in the reception/shop where there was a small cafe with a terrace, the focal point for meeting other guests, and more importantly, other dogs to play with. Dogs are supposed to be kept on a lead in areas where there are deer, but as we never saw any, she had free rein for the majority of the time. On the day we arrived, Gail one of the two forest rangers, was running a fungus foray. I had hopes of teaching Poppy to sniff out truffles but sadly none were to be found. However, Gail did show us lots of different species, warning us not to eat any unless we knew for certain that they were edible as it could be dangerous. What surprised me were those growing out of tree barks that I had, up until now, thought of as parts of the tree. I had always thought of fungi as soft and moist but in reality over time they can become hard. It certainly taught
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me what to look for in the future. Thankfully dogs know not to eat mushrooms. We also looked at trees, crayoning pieces of paper on their barks to make patterns, and were told how to identify a tree by its particular leaf. Although perhaps not something that I would remember, it certainly gave me the taste to learn more, and question what I see. The time of year obviously dictates what is growing, and sadly we were just too early to see the profusion of bluebells that apparently coats one of the meadows. Shelters made from long branches could be seen everywhere. These, David the other forest ranger, explained were made as part of the survival class although given the number around parents were also helping their children to make them on their own. In this course, participants learn the three basics of how to keep warm, forage for food, and provide shelter. Although the class is geared to youngsters, as the activities are family oriented the adults also participate, and enjoy it as much. I learnt how to light a fire safely using what I could find, and how to build a shelter, along with the sort of things I would need to consider such as the direction of the wind. David also had a box of goodies from which he took out containers filled with bugs for us to identify, showing us where to find them under fallen barks. The one and a half hour courses are charged as an extra but as the atmosphere is so informal and the foresters enjoy what they are doing I found that they went on for a lot longer.
TRAVEL
THE NORTH'S LARGEST
E-BIKE STORE
WWW.ONYERBIKE.COM
Bicycles are hired out by the day for £15. Having never learnt to cycle as a child and living in London, I took lessons but was never brave enough to practise. Here with so many trails and few cars, it was the ideal environment and I am proud to say that I now can. As someone commented, for the novice car driver, this is also an ideal environment to become a more proficient driver. The lodges are based in forests owned by the Forestry Commission. Virtually everyone, while I was there, had a child or a dog or both. The 60 cabins of varying sizes are modern with underfloor heating, a kitchen, and floor-to-ceiling windows in the lounge, as well as a log-burner in many cabins. If you are travelling as a couple you could treat yourself to the romantic environment of a Golden Oak Hideaway cabin. There are also a number of Treehouse cabins which sleep up to ten people; this is essentially a four bed cabin sleeping eight people connected by a bridge to a Treehouse which sleeps two people. The treehouse is ideal for family holidays when those of us who go to sleep early or have a nap in the afternoon can do so without spoiling the younger members’ enjoyment. The accommodation is self-catering but if the cook in the family wants a holiday too, freshly prepared food is available in the cafe as well as tasty meals that can be heated up in your cabin. Forest Holidays offers an ideal environment for those who love the peace and quiet of the countryside with activities on hand, a hot-tub on the deck and space for quality time in the heart of beautiful woodlands.
In Europe pedal assist cycle sales commonly known as e-bikes are massive and now here in the UK sales are growing at an unbelievable rate now that the quality and choice has finally arrived.
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AUTHORISED DEALERS FOR...
For more information, please contact www.forestholidays.co.uk or call 03330 110 495. There are special discounts for Silver Travel Advisor members with Forest Holidays. Visit www.silvertraveladvisor.com and type Forest Holidays into the search box to find out more.
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Joanna Lumley
IT’S ALL ABOUT ME NOT many people can go from championing the Ghurkas to starring as a crazy fashion guru to presenting the BAFTAs and still remain absolutely fabulous but Joanna Lumley can. Now, the 71 year-old is embarking on her first ever live tour, All About Me, later this year when she hits the road for a 30date itinerary all over the UK and Ireland, finishing in Boston, USA. “The thought of this tour, travelling across the British Isles and Ireland, has completely taken over my waking hours,” she admitted. “It’s utterly thrilling to start planning the stories I can tell and the rapture (and gratitude, to be fair) with which I shall greet the audiences. Nothing like this has come my way before, and I may have to be dragged off with a hook at the end of each show.” The tour should prove a fascinating one as Joanna’s life so far has certainly been full and interesting and began in the same out-of-the-ordinary way it has continued. She was born in Kashmir, India, to British parents. Her father was a major in the Ghurka Rifles and she spent most of her early childhood in the Far East where he was posted. Although she was an aspiring actress, it was as a model in the Swinging Sixties in London that she first found success. Statuesque and with striking good looks, she caught the attention of famous-name photographers including the late Lord Patrick Lichfield. She was designer Jean Muir’s muse and house model for several years before going freelance to become one of the top 10 most-booked models of this exciting decade. Her acting career included appearances in On the Buses, Dracula and Coronation Street (where she was Ken Barlow’s early love interest) and she was a Bond girl in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Her acting breakthrough, though, came as Purdey in The New Avengers’ TV series in 1976. More than 800 girls auditioned for this role to appear alongside actor Patrick McNee but producers obviously saw something special in Joanna and her subsequent success in the series – along with her trademark Purdey haircut which became a musthave style – made her a hit with the public as an all-action heroine.
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Roles which followed included Sapphire in Sapphire & Steel in 1979, opposite David McCallum, in a cult sci-fi series which gained many fans. During the 1980s, Joanna honed her theatrical skills in Hedda Gabler and as Elvira in Blythe Spirit. Joanna also made appearances in several films including the 1982 hit Trail of the Pink Panther and Curse of the Pink Panther the following year. She also had a screen-stealing role in iconic hit film Shirley Valentine in 1989. While the public had long ago accepted her versatile acting talents, the role that really shot her to international acclaim came along in 1992 when she joined Jennifer Saunders in the TV comedy series Absolutely Fabulous. She played fun-loving fashionista Patsy Stone to Saunders’ PR guru Edina “Eddy” Monsoon and this re-invention as a comic actress caught the public’s enduring attention. It also won Joanna a string of awards including BAFTAs and cemented her status as a muchloved and admired entertainer. She has always been quick to attribute Ab Fab’s success to the writing of Jennifer Saunders, commenting: “You cannot get better than the writing. The writing has to be the best you can get, then you can build on it. You can’t make bricks without straw “Jennifer’s writing for Ab Fab was absolutely stunning and unbeatable and individual and hysterically funny.” The public, however, long ago embraced both Patsy and Joanna as their own and she has been a regular fixture on national TV screens ever since. She has also built up a successful film career as a character and voice-over actress. Her silky, upper-class English tones are immediately identifiable and her enduring beauty and charm have made her a natural for presenting programmes of all kinds. In 2009, she became a strident spokeswoman for the Gurkhas in the UK and helped persuade the British Government to allow those who had served in the Army the right to settle here. Not too surprisingly, when she visited Nepal she was feted by crowds and thanked by Nepal’s President and
CELEBRITY INTERVIEW Prime Minister for her work in championing the Ghurkas’ cause. She does have strong views about standing up to be counted and once stated: “You have to feel more involved than just writing out a cheque. Charity is almost the wrong word – I think people are beginning to feel more responsible for the world.”
And, however unlikely another Ab Fab series might currently seem, what is certain is that thousands of fans are about to be fascinated by a glimpse into the world of Joanna Lumley on her tour. As for Joanna, she is both excited and grateful for this, insisting:
“Oh people! This is especially for you from me, with masses of love. I think it will be fabulous!”
NORTH WEST TOUR DATES 13 October 2018 Winter Gardens, Blackpool 14 October 2018 Lowry, Manchester 27 October 2018 Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool 7 November 2018 St Georges Hall, Blackburn * For full details of Joanna Lumley’s tour and tickets go to www.ticketmaster.co.uk
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BREAST SCREENING Saves lives through detecting cancer early
The National Breast Screening Programme invites all women between 50-70, every 3 years for breast screening. Each GP practice is screened in turn and all women that are registered with a GP will receive an invitation.
the chance of making a full recovery much higher. If breast cancer is diagnosed early at screening, 97% of women will be alive five years later. *www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk.
Breast cancer 1 in 8 women in the UK will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point during their lives. Breast cancer is now the most common cause of cancer in women in this country, with over 45,000 new cases being diagnosed every year.
Why do we Screen? We screen women who are most at risk.
Why only invite women over 50? The aim of screening is to increase the survival rate from breast cancer amongst those women that have taken part in the programme. Before a programme like this starts, a lot of research is done to ensure that the benefits to the population will be greater than the risks. For the breast screening programme the research showed that, by inviting all women every three years from the age of 50, the benefit would outweigh any negatives. When you receive an invitation if it’s not at a convenient location, date or time, please call your local breast screening office on 01282-805301 and we will be happy to rearrange.
What is breast screening? Breast screening (or mammography, as it is also called), is an x-ray of the breast. By doing this x-ray, doctors are able to see at an early stage, if there are any changes in the breast tissue that could be due to cancer, so they can be investigated early.
Early detection saves lives Most breast changes will not be cancer, but if cancer is found, the treatment required will often be less intense, and
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80% of all breast cancer is diagnosed in women aged over 50, and so regular screening of this age group will be most beneficial.
Younger women get breast cancer too... Young women do get breast cancer, but when you look at the risk across the population as a whole, the number of younger women who get breast cancer is much smaller. This is why we don’t screen women under 50. If you are a younger woman and worried about breast cancer, perhaps due to finding a sign or symptom, or having a family history of the disease, you should contact your GP.
East Lancashire
Breast Screening Service East Lancashire is your local breast screening service based at Burnley General Hospital; you will be invited to our base unit or our mobile unit which visits 11 different locations across East Lancashire. We visit Burnley, Blackburn, Accrington, Padiham, Darwen, Waterfoot, Haslingden, Clitheroe, Rawtenstall, Longridge and Barnoldswick.
Reasons WHY do 3 in 10 women living in Lancashire not attend their FREE Breast Screening Appointment? • I DON’T HAVE TIME
A breast screen (mammogram) takes just 8 minutes and could save your life.
• IT’S UNCOMFORTABLE
Some women may find the experience uncomfortable; however the benefits of screening far outweigh any possible discomfort.
• THERE’S NO BREAST CANCER IN MY FAMILY
4 in 5 women and men who are diagnosed do not have a family history of breast cancer.
• I DON’T WANT TO KNOW
Only 1 in 100 women screened nationally will be diagnosed with breast cancer.
WE’VE BEEN SCREENED EXPERIENCES
Your Local
Breast Screening Service is
Fast, Free and can diagnose breast cancer Early
East Lancashire is your Local Breast Screening Service 01282 805301 The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chances of survival.
breastscreening@elht.nhs.uk www.elht.nhs.uk/breast-screening #bescreened WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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HOME is the most important place in the world.
H O LT L I V I N G Luxury bathrooms and interiors. W holtliving.co.uk E contact@holtliving.co.uk T 01706 248074
H O LT | L I V I N G
HOME
Bring your home
BACK TO LIFE THIS is definitely the time of year we take a fresh look at our home and think about change. Spring is not just a time for Springcleaning but also altering and improving our lifestyle and streamlining the way we live with less clutter. As the brighter days come along, the fresh light on often tired furnishings and décor can galvanize us to action. But where to start? Although it may be your rooms that look like they need some immediate rejuvenating, it’s worth first checking the OUTSIDE of your property and seeing if work needs doing there.
SAFETY & QUALITY NEVER COMPROMISED The Premier Garage Door range blends the convenience of power operation with smooth, vertical opening and the benefits of insulation to provide the perfect solution for any garage. Manufactured from foam filled aluminium lath, available in a full range of colours and four wood effect finishes. We are confident we can accommodate your requirements and enhance your property.
The fascia board and soffits – the wooden bits around the outside of your home – may be looking tired and in need of some work. You may just need a new coat of paint on the outside or even new WINDOWS. Today, windows are not only very effective in keeping out the bad weather and ensuring your home is well-insulated but also look good and can modernise the most tired-looking property. If you don’t want to spend quite that amount, check that your FRONT DOOR is still effective as a welcoming portal to your home. Front doors come in all kinds
of designs these days and are ideal for ensuring light in your hallway. You may want to build onto your home in 2018 with an EXTENSION, SUNROOM or ORANGERIE. You may prefer a CONSERVATORY as a means of extra light and space. They can all add both value and quality to your home and daily living but it’s worth choosing your builder carefully.
Prices start from
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Operated by a tubular motor complete with a manual override facility and controlled by a comprehensive remote control system to include courtesy light and full safety system we guarantee all year round access. Features include a unique auto-lock system to prevent the door from being lifted when in fully closed position and a safety brake mechanism to prevent the door from falling when in the fully open position, making your garage safe and secure at all times. Additional benefits compared to conventional garage doors are the reduction in noise and heat loss whilst freeing up valuable garage space. A vehicle can be parked within 50mm of the door inside or out without disrupting operation.
Acorn Door Systems Your local garage door company Sample colours The above swatches are for guide purposes only and do not represent an exact match.
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Phone: 01254 704132
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y
Insulated Roofs by Conservatory Conversions by
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An approved official body like the Federation of Master Builders is a good place to start; go to www.fmb.org.uk for information about a suitable local builder. Your builder should be able to show you previous work which is why having one recommended to you often helps. Check all your rooms carefully before you start any work as, once you’ve got one room much improved, it can make the others look rather dull!
Keep your HALLWAY bright with good lighting and possibly new wallpaper and paint. Mirrors are also a great way to maximise space and light. Decorating might be the answer around the house, especially in areas like the lounge and kitchen where you spend a large amount of time. The paint experts at Valspar advise that “light colours will always uplift a small room and make it appear bigger. In larger rooms, you can
www.lancashireconservatoryroofs.co.uk info@lancashireconservatoryroofs.co.uk
CALL NOW FOR A FREE QUOTE Visitor Centre 01257 491078 Head Office 01706 892332
OR VISIT US AT The Countryard, Heskin Hall Farmers Market, Wood Lane, Heskin, Chorley, PR7 5PA
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BACK TO NATURE – It’s the natural look by Valspar paints for this lovely room
HOME use dark colours to make the room feel cosier or create a more dramatic effect.” If you don’t want to invest in a new SOFA or CHAIRS, having new covers made or even buying attractive throws will definitely brighten them up.
The same applies in the KITCHEN where new unit doors, for example, can create the illusion of a completely new kitchen. Or, splash out on a large, freestanding fridge if you’ve got the room to stylishly add to storage and drinks’ capacity. Even new pots and pans, displayed attractively, can improve the look of you kitchen or new, brightly-coloured utensils. You can buy complete ranges of coffee-makers, kettles and containers now in lively colours.
The same applies in the BATHROOM where a new suite will do wonders for the look here and make it much more contemporary. Bright shower curtains and accessories can complete your makeover. BEDROOMS definitely benefit from decoration in soft, relaxing colours, complemented by new bedding in similar shades and new flooring.
Nothing will work well in the way of home improvements, though, if you don’t seriously address the matter of clutter. Professional de-clutterer Amanda Manson from Orderly Office and Home suggests some simple, tried and tested tips to help you tackle those niggling areas and create a feeling of calm. 1. Decide on your goal – Getting started requires a mindset that is open to letting things go, a sense of acceptance and the ability to move forward. I speak to many people who say they have too much stuff in the
spare room or that their loft is ful of “goodness knows what” and they just can’t seem to make a start tackling it. So first I’d suggest setting yourself a goal and a timeframe in which to achieve it. Clearing the overflowing sideboard or dining table before you have guests over for lunch or going through a pile of newspapers and magazines that have been stacking up over the weeks in time for paper recycling day, for instance, are both great motivators.
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2. Pick a time and a place – Whilst in certain circumstances it makes sense to sort all of a particular “type” of thing in one hit – books, clothes, photographs etc – if you’re simply trying to give yourself a sensible clear-out and freshen up your home, I’d suggest working either room-by-room or space-by-space. So, find yourself a free morning or afternoon when you can get stuck into a room, or just 30 minutes to work on a set of drawers or a shelf, put the radio on and get to work!
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3. Bags, boxes and all that jazz – You don’t need to go overboard here by any means but it’s good to have at hand some suitable containers for sorting your items. There are things to keep, to donate to charity, to pass on to friends or where, needs must, to put into the bin. Cardboard boxes, bin bags plastic tubs or simple marked-up spaces on the floor (use a post-it note) or table are a good starting point. Simply moving things around and not into a specific category means it’s easier to mix up and get into a muddle again. 4. Need it? Use it? Love it? – These are the questions you need to ask yourself when going through your possessions. If you can’t answer “yes” to any of these, you’ll then need to ask yourself why you still have it! Easier for some items than others, granted, but for the purpose of a Springclean it’s likely you’ll be tackling things that you’re less emotionally attached to. 5. Sort, group and purge – When going through your possessions, start by gathering together things from one place. For instance in your kitchen just empty out that utensil drawer onto the countertop and try to group all of the same kinds of items together. Lay out all the knives, whisks, measuring spoons and so on. Then it’s time to assess what you have and decide if you have enough, too many or need more. A simple trick here is, over the course of a week, to only put back into that drawer the items that you have used. Look at what’s left at the end of the week and decide if you really need what’s left in the box. 6. Sort first, store second – Don’t be tempted to buy new storage items on a whim. Go through the simple steps in whichever area of your home needs a tickle then you can enjoy finding something suitable to fit in your space. Try to re-purpose storage items that don’t work in other rooms. You’ll often find they work wonders when given a new job. 7. Clean and be cleaned – Of course, you’ll want to give the area you’re sorting a good Springclean whilst you’re at it. Just think how much easier a bookshelf will be to dust when there are fewer items cluttering up the surface space. Likewise for your laundry cupboard. Three fewer duvets and a new way of storing them (duvet cover and bottom sheets stored inside the matching pillowcase) will make life much easier going forwards.
• For more information on Amanda Manson go to www.orderlyofficeandhome.co.uk and on Valspare paint www.valsparpaint.co.uk
Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
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Rossendale Interiors Full Page.qxp_Layout 1 17/03/2017 13:33 Page 1
Rossendale Interiors Full Page.qxp_Lay
Kitchens Bedrooms Bathrooms
One stop shop, tiles and flooring available, everything under on
• Massive choice of traditional or modern • Fabulous showroom with 60 displays open 7 days • Owned by JJO Furniture Manufacturers offering very keen prices and a quick turna Financially solid • Project-managed installation. All aspects covered • Established over 150 years with four experienced designers plus CAD designer for outstanding visual aids qualih t • ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ subject to status is
Kitchens Bedrooms Bathrooms
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• Massive choice of traditional or modern Bacup - 352-358 Newchurch Road, 7 Stacksteads, • Fabulous showroom with 60 displays open days Bacup. OL13 0LD Tel: 01706 252122 Oswaldtwistle - Oswaldtwistle Mills, Colliers Street, Oswaldtwistle. BB5 3DE Tel: 01254 30 • Owned by JJO Furniture Manufacturers offering very keen prices and a quick turnaround. Ulverston - Kitchen House, Brogden/Market Street, Ulverston. LA12 7AH Tel: 01229 5818 Financially solid Blackburn - Blackburn Market Hall, Church Street, Blackburn. BB1 5AF Tel: 01254 6692 • Project-managed installation. All aspects covered www.rossendaleinteriors.com • Established over 150 years with four experienced designers See h o w plus CAD designer for outstanding visual aids quali ur ty fuo • ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ subject to status r nit is
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Bacup - 352-358 Newchurch Road, Stacksteads, Bacup. OL13 0LD Tel: 01706 252122
Oswaldtwistle - Oswaldtwistle Mills, Colliers Street, Oswaldtwistle. BB5 3DE Tel: 01254 304068
Ulverston Kitchen House, Brogden/Market Street, Ulverston. LA12 7AH Tel: 01229 581828 Bacup - 352Bacup -- 352-358 Newchurch Road, Stacksteads, Bacup. OL13 0LD Tel: 01706 252122 Blackburn - Blackburn MarketMills, Hall,Colliers ChurchStreet, Street,Oswaldtwistle. Blackburn. BB1 5AF3DE Tel:Tel: 01254 669215 Oswaldtwistle - Oswaldtwistle BB5 01254 304068 Oswaldtwistle -
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Ulverston - Kitchen House, Brogden/Market Street, Ulverston. LA12 7AH Tel: 01229 581828 Ulverston - Kitc
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Outdoor
LIVING It may be anything from a tiny patch of grass to a paved garden or something lush that stretches over a large area. Whatever the size of your garden, this time of year is when we really appreciate getting outside on fine days and enjoying that private piece of England. And more and more we are now making the very best of our gardens. If you’re planning a garden or improving one, it’s worth deciding first of all how you want to use it. Is it purely a place to grow flowers and vegs? Is it for relaxing, for cooking and entertaining or as a children’s playspace? Is it a “working” garden that has additional storage or even a garden studio? Once you have decided on its main purpose, come up with a wish-list of things you would like in it – and prune this to fit your budget. Some garden experts suggest, as a rule of green thumb, living with your garden for a year to experience every season and what this means to your garden. Each garden has its own subtle annual patterns and styles – and it needs to suit the property it adjoins to complement it properly. Make the garden that fits the right location: if you’ve got a city garden your space will probably be overlooked by buildings creating shade so use plants that have a chance of blooming. If your garden overlooks your neighbours consider hedges and trees for privacy, but if it’s bordered by open rural space and lovely views think about lowering fences so it blends in seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. All this helps you to enjoy your garden more. PATHS can create an illusion of space and areas of greater interest; a winding path makes a more fluid design than a straight one and you can make individual areas for sitting or just admiring the greenery. Use path materials to complement those used on the house, matching the tones but varying the layout, perhaps adding a secondary, smaller material to give the path a more distinctive look. Do you want to stride boldly around your paths or are they a more subtle way of enticing people through the garden? In a narrow garden, a fan effect of paths can help the space look wider, or just lay wide rectangular slabs in a less formal way. A PATIO can prove to be a real sun-trap and a place where you can enjoy al fresco dining and entertaining. You can
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make your own decked area relatively easily, but don’t forget to treat it with stain and preserver products that will protect it from sunlight, water damage and mould. POTS and PLANTERS placed distinctively around your garden can look great on a patio with a large shrub, can screen areas or make small areas of fascination throughout your garden. Ensure, however, that they are portable enough to move around – if you get tired of them in one place then you can move them to another. Highlight all this with subtle LIGHTING. Invest in beautiful lanterns or LED lights in styles to complement your garden and spotlight your hard work. To take your lifestyle out into the fresh air, AWNINGS are a welcome all-year-round home accessory. They allow for outdoor dining and entertainment and can easily extend living areas outside day or night. They offer shade when it’s hot and protection when it’s not and these days come in beautiful shades and with smooth mechanisms that make using them a pleasure. PERGOLAS, GAZEBOS and ARBOURS come in all shapes and sizes, too, offering a quirky and interesting attraction or simply as a way to enhance your garden walks. The wood used blends in beautifully with the surroundings yet they offer a talking-point and bring a different element to your garden. Everyone loves a BARBECUE in the garden and gas or charcoal-burning mobile models are available in various styles and prices to suit all pockets.
GARDEN
There are even brazier-like barbecues that heat the area on chilly evenings.
Find out more at the British and Irish Spa Hot Tub Association (BISHTA) on www.bishta.co.uk
You can, of course, build your own barbecue from brick, ensuring beforehand that it’s at the most practical and comfortable height for the people using it and that it doesn’t pose a fire-risk.
Gardens are great places in which children and grandchildren can play and there’s a wealth of PLAY EQUIPMENT available – everything from climbing frames, slides and swings to exotic treehouses.
Gardens are also wonderful for their relaxing qualities, so finding ways to get nearer to it – and even work within it – make sense for many of us. GARDEN STUDIOS are one clever way of doing this – individually built rooms with plenty of glass and airiness that allow us another handy room outside the house.
And if all you really want to do in your home outdoor space is garden, you can make your life easier with every kind of GARDEN EQUIPMENT. Choose from the latest labour-saving lawnmowers, trimmers and strimmers to all manner of small tools to create the garden of your dreams – and even be kind to your knees with the latest comfy kneeler!
We all know the healing and relaxing power of water which is why PONDS and WATER FEATURES are all so popular in our gardens today. They don’t have to cost a fortune – you can create a small pond on quite a modest budget, install a pump and put in suitable plants plus fish for a reasonable amount. And water features can be as big or small as you want, all involving that lovely sound of trickling water that calms the soul. If you really want to, literally, push the boat out you could invest in a SWIMMING POOL. You could have a small one in the open air or something larger in its own purpose-built home. Choose carefully and this could provide luxury swimming on site all the months of the year. HOT TUBS have also become very popular in this country over the last decade. Again, these can be used all year round and provide a relaxing and healthy way to chill out at home.
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GARDEN
Health Benefits OF GARDENING
Gardening is a fun, rewarding hobby that’s enjoyed by many of us. And with spring here already, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about getting out in the garden. There are some surprising health benefits too. So we recently spoke with Eleanor Atkins, a doctor from Bupa UK, who shared these unexpected benefits with us:
It can also feel therapeutic and distract you from thinking about stressful situations.
You can grow your own nutritious fruit and vegetables Having a diet high in fruit and vegetables may help to reduce your blood pressure, lower your risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. A good diet can also help to protect oral and dental health, and bone and joint health in later life. So growing your own fruit and vegetables is a great way you can include them more in your diet.
It’s a fun way to exercise Physical activity and exercise can help you stay healthy and energetic as you get older. Gardening is a great way to keep fit because it can involve using your whole body, depending on the type of gardening you do. Activities like raking and carrying leaves can help tone your upper arms and increase your strength and flexibility.
It can be good for your heart Being physically active is important in maintaining a good heart health. Regular, moderate exercise that lasts for around 30 minutes can help reduce your risk of heart disease. Try some gardening activities that raises your heart rate like mowing the lawn, raking the leaves or trimming a tree. Activities that raise your heart rate are great for your cardiovascular health.
Vitamin D exposure
It can reduce stress levels Studies show that gardening can lower your levels of cortisol (your stress hormone) and can make you feel more relaxed. When compared to reading a book inside, gardening had a much greater effect of reducing stress levels.
With spring here already, many of us will be taking advantage of the nicer weather and gardening over the next few months. Our bodies need vitamin D to help build strong and healthy bones and we can get this naturally from our diet (oily fish like salmon and mackerel) and the sun. So gardening is a great way of spending some time out in the sunshine! But as always, make sure you protect yourself from getting burnt in the sun. Cover up, wear good sunglasses, use sunscreen and check the UV index.
It’s social Enjoying the company of others who have similar interests can be good for our emotional wellbeing. Gardening is a great way of meeting new people and there are plenty of local gardening groups out there, so get involved! It’s also a fun way to socialise with your family too, as you can plant seeds, flowers and other kinds of greenery together.
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Grow your own fruit and vegetables
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conform to 5kg Adhesive Tub Our products conform to European qualityCovers 10 linear metresOur products£22.50 All weather additional work Option 1: Total solution premium sub base Covers 3 linearOption 2: Surface only to client Glue Stick metres European £7.50 (per stick) norms, meaning they are safe for the quality norms, Child and pet such as fencing, environment, people and animals. construction basethey Seaming Tape Minimum 10 prepared metres meaning £1.00 are (per metre) safe for friendly paving, decking, shrub 5mm the environment, people Underlay (per sqm) and Involving excavation and muck away, sub base This surface only£4.50 option gives you the animals. Soft and durable and tree stump removal. 10mm Underlay £7.50 (per sqm)
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OUT & ABOUT
Out & About
A GUIDE to some amazing events around the region sponsored by winter gardens, blackpool 14 April - 23 June
PLATFORM GALLERY CRAFT OPEN 2018 This exhibition showcases the best work selected from the applications from all kinds of makers of contemporary craft in Lancashire and Yorkshire. From ceramics to jewellery, glass to textiles and furniture to sculpture we're sure you'll find plenty to enjoy. Don't forget to vote for your favourite piece in the show through the 'People's Choice' prize. Platform Gallery and Visitor Information Centre, Station Road, Clitheroes BB7 2JT. T: 01200 425566 e: platformgallery@ribblevalley.gov.uk Saturday 2nd June 2018
Accrington Food and Drink Festival Accrington Food Festival takes place in Accrington town centre from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday, June 2nd, 2018. Find full details, including a downloadable brochure with the festival itinerary, at www.accringtonfoodfestival.co.uk TAKING place on Saturday 2nd June 2018, Accrington Food Festival is already set to be the biggest one yet, with more sponsors, more stalls and more entertainment than ever before.
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Enjoy a Lancashire tea with Noyna loaf l Learn about Nelson's Selina Cooper l Wool spinning demonstrations l Tombola l Lancashire books stall l A Lancashire themed raffle. Friends of Pendle Heritage, Pendle Heritage Centre, Park Hill, Barrowford, Nelson BB9 6JQ. email: info@foph.co.uk or visit www.foph.co.uk Sunday 17 June
Waddington Duck Race It's almost time for the annual Scarecrow Festival and Duck Race in Waddington. It has to be said this is one of their favourite times of the year, the crème de la crème of scarecrow makers and duck racers surface, competing for each of the titles respectively. This year the Scarecrow Festival theme is 'Nursery Rhymes and Pantomimes.' It's always very exciting to see what creations the Waddington community conjure up. http://www.waddingtonvillage.co.uk
Ribble Valley Music Festival 3 June 2018
Encore Opera at Chatburn 24 June 2018
Classical music plus The Burwain Singers at Downham 13 July 2018
Preston Opera plus organ recital at Clitheroe 14 Sept 2018
Last Night of the Ribble Valley Proms at Clitheroe
THORNTON HALL OINUDTODOOROR& COUNTRY PARK PLAY AREAS L SPECIAS T N EVE OPEN DAILY FROM 10AM (8TH JAN - 24TH DEC 2018*)
The Ribble Valley Music Festival is a major event with a reputation for high standards and value for money. It takes place from spring to autumn with concerts of various music styles at stunning venues including Whalley Abbey and churches in beautiful locations around the Ribble Valley and with the unique benefit of all proceeds going to host venues. Tel: 01254 384893 Sunday 3rd June 11am to 4pm
lancashire day at pendle heritage centre Celebrating 40 years of the friends of Pendle Heritage. l Malkin Morris Dancers traditional dances from the local area l Lancashire poetry l The friends of real Lancashire l The secret Singers
FARM SAFARI, QUAD BIKING & PONY RIDES! Call us on
01282 841 148
FAMILY FUN AT THE FARM RAIN OR SHINE! Find us on
Thornton Hall Farm, Thornton-in-Craven BD23 3TS info@thorntonhallcountrypark.co.uk
www.thorntonhallcountrypark.co.uk
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR SEASONAL OPENING TIMES *, TICKET PRICES AND FULL TERMS & CONDITIONS
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Sunday, 1st July
Summer Brocante Fair Little France Boutique will be hosting a “Summer Brocante Fair” in the main hall on Sunday, 1st July from 10.30 am to 14.30 pm
THE NORTH WEST’S
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Bolton’s Award Winning Market Bolton market has over 200 stalls including a bustling food court serving food from all over the world, cafés complement our food offer, and we even have a licensed bar.
Stalls already confirmed include: l Painted furniture l Vintage wares l Cakes & bakes l Fresh flowers l Annie Sloan Chalk Paint l Interior designers l Vintage / bohemian hair & make up stylist The Reading Room will be open for lunches, cakes, teas and coffees. The Barlow, Edgworth 216 Bolton Rd, Bolton BL7 0AP Tickets for Barlow events can be purchased in person from the office, on the ‘phone (01204 852216), from the The Reading Room Coffee Shop, or purchased online.
King George’s Hall. We are delighted to welcome back Jools and his Orchestra as part of his 2018 tour. King George's Hall, Northgate, Blackburn, BB2 1AA Tel: 0844 847 1664 www. kinggeorgeshall.com 18 - 21 July
Ribble Valley International Piano Week 2018 Ribble Valley International Piano Week is a festival of piano related musical events, held in July each year, and from 2011 has been at the purpose-built Croston Theatre, Westholme School on the rural outskirts of Blackburn, Lancashire. Croston Theatre, Westholme School, Meins Road, Blackburn, Lancashire, BB2 6QU
Monday 2nd July 2018
ROGER WATERS
You can buy everything from fresh fish, meat and game, locally sourced and exotic fruit and vegetables with speciality stalls selling deli meats and a huge selection of cheeses, plus there is a whole host of traditional stalls selling everything from furniture to flowers, bedding to broomsticks and much more.
Well worth a visit!
Bolton Market has it all. Opening Times; Open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday 9am-5pm. How To Find Us Bolton Market, Ashburner Street, Bolton BL1 1TQ. Contact: 01204 336825 Email: bolton.markets@bolton.gov.uk
Visit our website for a list of special events and activities that we are running at the Market.
www.bolton.gov.uk
NABMA
the voice of markets
WINNER BEST FOOD market 2017
“For Bolton’s Food & Drink Festival
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English rock musician, singer-songwriter and composer. Waters was the bass player, co-lead vocalist, lyricist, primary songwriter, and one of the founding members of the rock band Pink Floyd. He now tours as a solo artist, performing some of the classic songs he helped write in Pink Floyd. ECHO Arena, Kings Dock, Liverpool Waterfront, L3 4FP http://www.liverpooltheatres.com/ echoarena.htm Sat 07th July 2018
ROCK POOL – TRIBUTE SHOW The third annual specialist Rock event from Coast Town Events Limited is, once again, being held within the Arena at the Blackpool Winter Gardens complex providing the best live in tribute entertainment. Winter Gardens, 97 Church Street Blackpool FY1 1HL www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk Sat 14th July, Doors 7.00pm - Concert Hall
Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra
A welcome return for one of our personal 2017 highlight shows here at
Tuesday 24th - Saturday 28th July 2018
SUMMER HOLIDAY THE MUSICAL
Based on the iconic 1960’s film starring Cliff Richard and The Shadows this brand-new stage musical includes all of the number one hits from the movie, plus some additional Cliff Richard classics. The famous red double-decker bus will make its stop at the Opera House Blackpool from Tuesday 24 – Saturday 28 July 2018. Price(s): £17.00, £29.00, £35.00, £39.50 Winter Gardens, 97 Church Street Blackpool FY1 1HL www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk
OUT & ABOUT 3 Aug 2018 - 7pm - 10pm
Summer music at Whalley Abbey Soprano Elizabeth Phillips is best known for her clear, yet rich sound. Her incredibly emotive performances ensure that you will be delighted with her performance of opera favourites and songs from the shows. There will also be a guest appearance by The Flat Cap Pack who will bring swinging songs from Las Vegas with a Lancashire twist. This is a perfect summer evening of quality and humour in this historic setting. Tickets £10 from Whalley Abbey reception between 9 am–5.30 pm Mon-Friday or call 01254 828400 or 01254 384893. There will be a pay bar. All proceeds go to Whalley Abbey. Whalley Abbey, The Sands, Whalley, Clitheroe BB7 9SS Saturday 11th August at 7:30 pm
Elvis Remembered
The theme, The Curious Garden is inspired by a sense of mystery, wonder and curiosity. Find your way through the foliage to reveal the strange and delightful secrets of the British garden. Through a twist, a turn and a secret door - what will you discover? The Southport Flower is a great day out for the entire family and only 20 miles along the coast of Sefton from Liverpool. Victoria Park, Rotten Row, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 2BZ www.southportflowershow.co.uk
T
The Drifters
The Drifters are back on the road in the UK performing their classic hits from the last six decades. Blackburn Empire Theatre Aqueduct Road, Blackburn BB2 4HT Booking Office: 01254 685 500 General Email Enquiries: boxoffice@blackburnempire.com
Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday all year round from 9am - 4.30pm
Blackburn Empire Theatre Aqueduct Road, Blackburn BB2 4HT Booking Office: 01254 685 500 General Email Enquiries: boxoffice@blackburnempire.com
Also open all Bank Holidays and Tram Sunday
16 August 2018 - 19 August 2018
Southport Flower Show Southport Flower Show is the largest independent flower show in the country and is set to be bigger and better than ever before so why not make it a ‘must see’ whilst visiting Liverpool.
The Southport Flower is a great day out for the entire family and only 20 miles along the coast of Sefton from Liverpool. Southport Flower Show is the largest independent flower show in the country and is set to be bigger and better than ever before so why not make it a ‘must see’ whilst visiting Liverpool.
t a k o o l h s e r f a e ak
Friday 31st August at 7:30 pm
Elvis remembered takes you through the career of the King of Rock n Roll, Elvis Presley from the hits of the 50s n 60s to the concert shows of the 70s. Paul Molloy and The Memphis band bringing you a full two hour live show.
The theme, The Curious Garden is inspired by a sense of mystery, wonder and curiosity. Find your way through the foliage to reveal the strange and delightful secrets of the British garden. Through a twist, a turn and a secret door - what will you discover?
A shopper’s delight for clothing, household goods and gifts all at great prices there are currently over 200 stalls to explore
/fleetwoodmarket Thur 27th September
RIP IT UP THE 60’S Strictly Come Dancing champions Harry Judd and Louis Smith MBE and people’s champion Aston Merrygold will tour together as the ultimate boy band of dance, presenting everlasting hits from the decade that changed not just (y)our generation but the world; from Mersey Beat, Motown and Mod to West Coast and Woodstock. Price(s): £22.50, £30.00, £37.50, £100.00 Winter Gardens, 97 Church Street Blackpool FY1 1HL www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk
@fleetwoodmkt
Fleetwoodmarket.co.uk Victoria Street / Adelaide Street, Fleetwood, Lancashire FY7 6AB Tel: 01253 887651 Proud winners of Market Innovation of the Year Award 2017
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Events and Workshops
Arts & Craft 28th April Rock Creatures 7th May Botanical Mono Prints
Hall & Galleries Towneley Hall historic house, art gallery and museum located in 400 acres of beautiful parkland provides all the ingredients for a fun, educational and adventurous day out. The magnificent hall, which dates from the 14th century, contains fine period rooms decorated with oil paintings and sculptures. The museum houses an eclectic collection including an Egyptian mummy, the Whalley Abbey vestments, Lancashire-made oak furniture, Pilkington pottery and the Towneley bear! Children will enjoy following the wooden mouse trail. The art gallery boasts a spectacular collection of oil paintings including works by Sir Lawrence Alma Tadema, John William Waterhouse and Johan Zoffany. A programme of exhibitions in the galleries cover a wide range of arts and crafts. There is always something new to see. Visitors can explore life
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“below stairs” in the Victorian kitchen, servant’s bedroom and discover the hidden Priest’s Hide. The Art Gallery - showcasing a wide range of the extesive Towneley Collection. After a decade, the art gallery has recently been re-hung with a new layout, modern LED spot lights and visitors will be able to see views of the park from both windows. New additions to the gallery include: Jade Necklace for an Eastern Princess, Ring-a-Ringa-Roses-Oh, Life in Hop Garden and Pointing out the way. Decorative Arts Room - A stunning display of Royal Lancastrian Pilkington pottery. Stocks Massey & The Sanderson Gallery - host a program of exciting exhibitions and displays throughout the year. Wild About Burnley Gallery - a look at local natural history found on your doorstep with interactive displays.
28th May Egyptian Adventures 27th August Making your own Jam Jar Aquariums
These workshops are FREE and suitable for age 5+. Running from 1pm to 3pm and places must be pre booked by ringing 01282 477130 kdarwen@burnley.gov.uk
Events 10th June Brass in the Park Annual Band concert-rear lawn at Towneley Hall. 24th June Classic Vehicle Show with Model train exhibition & craft stalls. 7th - 9th Sept Heritage Open Days Meet our costumed housekeeper in the historic kitchen and family dinning room. Mini guided tours. Free Entry.
Sept - Dec Calligraphy The Guild celebrate their Pearl anniversary with a selection of new work.
June- Aug Edwin Thornber A selection of recent work from this Burnley born artist.
6th Oct 2018 - 3rd Mar 2019 Homes of Football Stuart Roy Clarke writes, In 1989 I began The Homes of Football about HOME = a sense of place and about person = you and me. It was above all about the professional game. This is Stuart’s second photographic exhibition at Towneley capturing all the elements of the beautiful game.
9th Sept Heritage & Woodland Festival Craft exhibitions & demonstrations in and around the hall, gardens & woodlands, plus mini tours. 11th Nov Remembrance Day Service 100 years since the end of the Great War. 25th Nov Christmas Craft Fair Over 30 stall selling hand made & crafted goods.Refreshments. FREE Entry. 12th Dec Christmas Carol Concert
Exhibitions 5th - 29th June Burnley College Furniture A mix designs from young and mature college students.
9th July - 30th Sept End of the Line It is 50 years since steam finished on mainline British Railways. The shed at Rosegrove, Burnley, was one of the last to close. The exhibition features photographs from the era as well as collections from local enthusiasts. 9th July - 30th Sept Book Illustrations A selection from the Hardcastle collection purchased for Towneley Hall in 1927. The collection includes illustrations for children’s and adult books and features artists such as Louis Wain, Harry Rountree and Phiz.
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To book please call Burnley Mechanics on 01282 664400
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6th Oct 2018 - 19th Jan 2019 War Memorials It is 100 years since the armistice of the Great War. These are a selection of local memorials from the Towneley collections and some stories of the men who lost their lives.
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A SPECTACULAR SETTING Celebrate this quintessentially English tradition in the grandeur of the Regency Rooms at Towneley Hall. Enjoy a perfect afternoon whilst sampling a selection of delicate bites, accompanied by elegant whole leaf tea, whilst overlooking the beautiful Italian Gardens.
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OUT & ABOUT Thursday 18th October 2018
THE THREE DEGREES
The Three Degrees are an American female vocal group, formed in 1963 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The group has remained a trio with 2 original members since Sheila Ferguson left many moons ago. King George's Hall, Northgate, Blackburn, BB2 1AA Tel: 0844 847 1664 www.kinggeorgeshall.com Sunday 21st October at 7:30 pm
Buddy Holly and The Cricketers This breathtaking show has rock ’n’ rolled audiences across the globe and is guaranteed to have everyone singing along to the music and dancing in the aisles. Blackburn Empire Theatre Aqueduct Road, Blackburn BB2 4HT Booking Office: 01254 685 500 General Email Enquiries: boxoffice@blackburnempire.com
Tues 30 Oct - Sat 03 Nov 2018
SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER Saturday Night Fever will embark on a UK tour this summer, over 40 years since the classic film was released in cinemas, and 20 years since the show's original London production. Price(s): From £20.50 Winter Gardens, 97 Church Street Blackpool FY1 1HL www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk Thursday 8th November 2018
YOU WIN AGAIN - BEE GEES Prepare to experience the distinct sound of one the greatest bands to have ever graced the stage in this unforgettable concert spectacular. Immerse yourself in the brothers’ music through the sixties, seventies and eighties – including hits they wrote for artists such as Celine Dion, Diana Ross & Dolly Parton. King George's Hall, Northgate, Blackburn, BB2 1AA Tel: 0844 847 1664 www.kinggeorgeshall.com
27 October
SHOWADDYWADDY Return by popular demand ‘The Greatest Rock & Roll Band In The World’ is a bold statement but Showaddywadday continue to live up to their title.
Burnley Mechanics Manchester Rd, Burnley BB11 1BH http://burnleymechanics.co.uk box office: 01282 664400
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Dave had been working in the NHS for 19 years as a Biomedical Scientist when in 1988 someone uttered the immortal words, “You’re really funny, you should be a comedian” and for some reason, he took them seriously!! Only a few short months later he was crowned the winner of the national talent show “Stairway to the Stars”. Larry Grayson, one of the judges, told him that it was a close run thing on the night but what clinched the award for Dave was his routine about a juggler on a motorbike. Fast forward 13 years (Is that possible?) to Friday 13th October 2000 , the day Dave switched off his microscope for good and found himself, the following Monday, sitting on rain swept local car park dressed as a giant berry!! So now in 2018 he celebrates the 30th anniversary of his comedy career. In this show he will look back on his remarkable life and his incredible journey from working class lad to Chief Biomedical Scientist to much loved comedy performer and writer via Phoenix Nights, Eight out of Ten Cats, Bullseye, Dead Man Weds, Magnolia, The Royal Variety Show, Parkinson and many more. He often reflects that maybe none of this would have happened and he might still be looking down his microscope today if it wasn’t for the juggler on the motorbike. Tickets: £17.50 concession £16
Burnley Mechanics , Manchester Rd, Burnley BB11 1BH http://burnleymechanics.co.uk box office: 01282 664400
Their live show is dynamic and uplifting featuring all of their biggest hits, many of which reached number one in the pop charts of Europe.
Tickets: £18.50 9plus £2 perticket booking fee if booked online) Please note that tickets can not be exchanged or refunded.
DAVE SPIKEY
Please note all tickets booked online are subject to a £2 per ticket booking fee. Reserved
Formed in the 1970s in Leicester from several local bands, they have sold more than 20 million records and have toured the world.
‘Under The Moon of Love’, ‘Three Steps to Heaven’, ‘Hey Rock & Roll’, ‘When’, ‘Blue Moon’, ‘Pretty Little Angel Eyes’ and many, many more. So come and join the ‘Dancing Party’… ‘You’ve Got What It Takes’!
22 November 2018
Saturday 24th November 2018
THE FOUR TOPS & THE TEMPTATIONS Fri 09th November 2018
THE BEST OF BILLY OCEAN Billy Ocean is the biggest selling black recording star Britain has ever produced and has sold over 30 million records in his lifetime to date. Price(s): £22.50/ £35/ £45/ VIP £85 Winter Gardens, 97 Church Street Blackpool FY1 1HL www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk
The Four Tops have been wowing audiences with their infectious blend of pure vocal power and sweet harmonies since 1954. The Temptations are known for their seminal R&B and soul catalogue, their harmonies and their trademark choreographies. ECHO Arena, Kings Dock, Liverpool Waterfront, L3 4FP http://www.liverpooltheatres.com/ echoarena.htm
Chris Taylor KBL Solicitors
Recent NHS figures show that 850,000 people in the UK are suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and it is the country’s leading cause of death.
The symptoms of dementia occur gradually over time, becoming more severe as the years go by. The first signs are often memory loss, confusion and failure to recall conversations, along with the names of places and objects. As the condition progresses, it can cause behavioural changes and severe memory problems. A diagnosis of dementia can be difficult to come to terms with. Unfortunately, after diagnosis it is inevitable that your independence and mental ability will be affected. You may wish to consider protecting and preserving your assets and putting certain provisions in place, providing peace of mind to you and your loved ones.
Alongside Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney are becoming more prevalent and a standard part of planning for the future. An LPA is a very simple document that allows you to grant authority to a member of your family or a close and trusted friend to make decisions on your behalf regarding your property, affairs and personal welfare should you become unable to control your own affairs. Whilst every adult has the right to manage their own money and affairs sometimes our ability to do this decreases whether this is caused by illness, disability, or an accident. There are two types of LPA: l
One of the most important things you can do is make a Will. By making a Will, you will determine who will receive your money and property, and how any dependants are provided for. Dementia sufferers can still make or change a Will, you just need to be able to show that you understand the decisions you are making and the impact of any changes made.
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Property & Financial which allows your attorney / attorneys to make decisions about how to spend your money and the way your property and affairs are managed. With a Property & Financial LPA you can appoint your attorney / attorneys to help you manage your finances even if you haven’t lost capacity should you so wish.
LEGAL
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Health & Care allows your attorney / attorneys to make decisions about your health and welfare. This includes decisions to refuse or consent to treatment on your behalf and deciding where you live. Your attorney cannot make decisions on your behalf unless there comes a time when you’re no longer able to make such decisions yourself.
We provide #GreatKBLsupport for businesses and individuals across the North West.
Either LPA is only effective once registered. In the event that a person has not registered an LPA and they are unable to make decisions for themselves it is necessary to apply to the Court of Protection for a person or persons to be appointed as their Deputy. This process takes in excess of 6 months and the cost of applying for a Deputyship Order is approximately 4 times the cost of registering an LPA. It can be difficult to think and talk about what would happen if you no longer had capacity and indeed people only tend to think of a Lasting Power of Attorney being important for those who are elderly. The reality is that it is important for everyone and unfortunately even those who are younger are not immune from accidents. Clients often feel that making a Lasting Power of Attorney means giving up control. In fact it is quite the opposite as by making an LPA you retain control over who makes your decisions if you cannot. You can choose whether it can be used either before, or only when, you lose mental capacity. In this way it can also be a useful tool as we get older so that whilst we may retain the ability to make decisions we may need help with practicalities for example, during a temporary admission to hospital an attorney can continue to pay your bills and access money in the bank, with your consent.
We’re right behind you For great Wills, Trusts & Probate support call KBL. • Will Preparation • Trust Advice • Inheritance Tax • Power of Attorney • Probate & Estate Administration
The question we are often asked is when the right time is to set up a Lasting Power of Attorney and our answer is always the same – the sooner the better. You must have capacity to make an LPA, when you have lost capacity it is no longer an option. As indicated earlier, without an LPA a relative or friend will need to apply through the Court of Protection for permission to deal with your finances, which can be a long, intrusive and costly process. There is also no guarantee that an application regarding your health matters will be successful as these are only granted very sparingly.
• Court of Protection
At KBL Solicitors LLP, our specialist Private Client Solicitors have many years’ experience and can help you make the right choices and plan for the future based on your own personal family circumstances.
BLACKBURN 12 Cunningham Court
• Probate Disputes • Advice for the Elderly Client
www.kbl.co.uk
Blackburn BB1 2QX 01254 268790 BOLTON 28 Mawdsley Street Bolton BL1 1LF 01204 527777
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FOOD & DRINK
James Martin's
AMERICAN ADVENTURE Chicken ‘Bonne Femme’ Bonne femme translates as ‘good woman’ or ‘good wife’, and refers to the simplicity of this tasty dish. In culinary terms, it has come to refer to a dish with a mushroombased sauce. There are lots of versions of Bonne Femme, made using oysters or sole as well as chicken. This is my version of a Louisiana Creole classic. The Worcestershire sauce adds a great depth of flavour.
4 tablespoons olive oil 100g (31/2 oz) lardons or chopped streaky bacon 100g (3/4 cup) plain (all-purpose) flour sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1.5kg (3lb) whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces 1 green pepper (bell pepper), deseeded and diced 3 large Spanish onions, sliced 2 celery sticks, diced 125g (41/2 oz) white button mushrooms, sliced 300g (101/2 oz) new potatoes 5 garlic cloves, chopped 150g (51/4 oz) chorizo sausage, diced 4 tablespoons white wine 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 15 drops of Tabasco a few sprigs of tarrago
Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/gas mark 6. Place a large roasting tray over a medium heat. Drizzle half the oil into the tray, then add the lardons or bacon. Stir into the hot oil and fry until crispy, tossing every now and then. Once the bacon is cooked, lift out with a slotted spoon and place in a large bowl. Spread the flour on to a plate and season well. Dip each piece of chicken into it to coat completely. Fry the pieces in the tray, in batches and over a medium heat, adding the remaining oil, as you need to. When each piece is golden on one side, flip over and brown the other side, then place
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in the bowl with the bacon. With the tray still over a medium heat, add the vegetables, potatoes, garlic and chorizo, stir in, then pour in the wine. Deglaze, stirring in the sticky bits and juices from the base of the pan, then add the Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco. Return the cooked bacon and chicken to the tray and season. Transfer to the preheated oven and cook for 35–40 minutes. Sprinkle with tarragon before serving.
Bow Pasta with Clams, Crayfish & Cajun Spices
SERVES 6 1 tablespoon salt 500g (1lb 2oz) bow pasta 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon ground white pepper 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon celery salt 4 tablespoons butter 5 garlic cloves, chopped 4 tablespoons white wine 500g (lb 2oz) clams 300ml (1/4 cup) double (heavy) cream large handful of cavolo nero, chopped 500g (1lb 2 oz) crayfish tails sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 10 drops of Tabasco 25g (oz) Parmesan cheese
We definitely need to eat more of these little fellas, as American crayfish have taken over from the UK crayfish in our rivers and streams. It’s easy to find containers of the cooked tails in the supermarket. This pasta dish is so simple to make and uses American kale, also called ‘black cabbage’ or cavolo nero. Bring a large saucepan of water to the boil, add the salt and the pasta, stir in and simmer for 10 minutes until al dente. Mix the paprika, white pepper, thyme, oregano and celery salt together in a bowl. Melt the butter in a large pan over a low to medium heat. Once the butter has stopped foaming, add the garlic, herbs and spices and cook for a minute or two. Pour in the white wine, then add the clams and
cream and bring to the boil. Cover with a lid and cook for 2 minutes. As the clams start to open, add the cavolo nero followed by the crayfish. Bring to the boil and simmer for 2 minutes. Drain the pasta, keeping a little of the water, and tip into the pan with the sauce. Season and keep cooking for another 2 minutes. Add the Tabasco and grate half the Parmesan into the sauce. Spoon onto a large serving bowl and grate over the rest of the cheese.
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Philly Cheesesteak Invented by a hot dog guy for a taxi diver who wanted to grab something quick to eat, the Philly cheesesteak has become massive in its home city of Philadelphia. Its fame has come at a price, however, and unfortunately it is now easier to find a bad one than a tasty one. This has to be made with great beef, normally rib-eye, cooked quickly then sliced up. Provolone cheese is another must. Other than the hoagie – the type of bread it sits in – the rest is up to you.
SERVES 3 4 tablespoons olive oil 3 x 20cm (8 in) hoagies or baguettes, cut in half lengthways 6 large spring onions (scallions), cut in half lengthways 2 little gem lettuces, leaves pulled apart 50g (3/4oz) cherry tomatoes 500g (1lb 2oz) rib-eye steak, thinly sliced 3 pickled onions, sliced 2 mozzarella balls, torn 300g (3 cups) grated provolone cheese
Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/gas mark 6. Heat a griddle pan to hot.
Place the baguettes in a parcel of foil or baking parchment, top with the lettuce and tomatoes.
Drizzle the oil over the cut sides of the baguettes and place cut-side down onto the griddle. Toast until charred. Brush a little oil over the spring onions (scallions) and griddle them for 2–3 minutes, again until charred.
Oil the griddle and place the steak on the griddle to cook for 1 minute on each side. Then cut up in to strips while on the griddle.
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Place the strips of steak into the baguettes. Add the slices of pickled onion, mozzarella, provolone cheese, and top with the spring onions. Place in the oven for 5 minutes before serving.
FOOD & DRINK
Bourbon Pecan Tart Another classic American dessert, this moreish tart is packed with crunchy pecans, smothered in bourbon-flavoured sticky goodness. If you’d like to glaze the cake, warm 2 tablespoons golden syrup (light corn syrup) in a pan and brush all over the tart after baking. SERVES 8 For the pastry 250g (I3/4cups plus 2 tablespoons) plain (all-purpose) flour, plus extra for rolling out 125g (1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon) butter, diced, at room temperature 1 medium egg, beaten For the filling 4 tablespoons butter 100g (3oz) treacle 4 medium eggs 175g (3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons) caster (superfine) sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 6 tablespoons bourbon whiskey 500g (1lb 2oz) pecans To serve double (heavy) cream or vanilla ice cream
To make the pastry, put the flour into a large bowl, add the butter and rub in using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Pour the egg into the middle of the mixture and stir in well, then lightly knead the mixture to bring it together. Add 1 tablespoon of water if the mixture feels a bit dry and doesn’t come together into a smooth dough. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in clingfilm (plastic wrap) and rest in the fridge for 20 minutes. Lightly flour a clean work surface then roll out the pastry into a large circle, around 2mm (1/8in) thick. Keep turning the pastry every time you roll it to keep the shape even. Use to line a 26cm (10 in) fluted loose-bottomed tart tin, 3cm (1.in) deep. Line the tin with the pastry. Press into the flutes and edge of the base of the tin, then leave the remainder hanging over the edge.
melt the butter. Stir together. Take the pan off the heat and cool a little. Whisk the eggs and sugar together in a large bowl until mixed well then pour in the cooled butter mixture, cinnamon and bourbon and stir everything together. Put the tart tin on a baking sheet. Spread the pecans all over the tart case, then pour the filling over the top. Bake for 35–45 minutes until the filling is firm. Once cooked, cut all the overhanging edges off the tart using a sharp serrated knife. Cool the tart until warm, then lift the tart out of the tin and transfer to a plate. Cut the tart into slices and serve with cream or ice cream.
Preheat the oven to 160°C/325°F/gas mark 3. Make the filling. Put the butter and treacle into a small pan and heat gently to
James Martin’s American Adventure by James Martin (Quadrille, £25) Photography © Peter Cassidy
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HEALTH
Quality dentures mean a quality lifestyle The Importance of Dentures The 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.
Choice of Dentures There are four main quality standards in denture materials. The denture base (gum coloured on which the denture teeth sit).
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• • • • •
Standard Quality High Impact Acrylics (much stronger) Injection Pressure Formed (Premium Denture Base) Flexible (Partial Dentures) Metal Denture
The Denture Teeth • • • •
2 Layer Acrylic (economy) 3 Layer Acrylic (harder wearing) 4 Layer Reinforced (hard wearing, natural look) N.F.C. (Nano filled composite) premium teeth.
Of course, the materials alone will not make a good denture. In the hands of a skilful and experienced Clinical Dental Technician the best results are achieved.
Dentures Need Regular Servicing Dentures 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 Clinical Dental Technician at least every two years, or more frequently if necessary.
Your Dentures need Attention 1. 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.
Should I have a spare set of Dentures made?
My Dentures have become loose!
Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage.
This is easily remedied by a procedure know as Re-lining. A new layer of Denture base is added to your existing Denture, improving the fit and restoring confidence.
Dentures with worn down teeth Teeth excessively worn, require a new set of dentures. Dentures on Implants This type of Denture is constructed in conjunction with the Dental Implant Surgeon. This is a very good procedure when the patient has limited control and retention of their Dentures. The finished Dentures ‘click’ into position offering the ultimate in Denture Retention.
Major improvements in Facial Features Padding dentures to reduce lines and fill up sunken cheeks will require a new set
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.
of dentures. It is advisable to have a new set of dentures made every 5 to 10 years.
What is a Clinical Dental Technician? Professional Clinical Dental Technicians are members of the Dental Health Care Team. They have undergone specific training and education in the skills and knowledge necessary to provide a removable appliance service directly to the community.
No Spare Set? “Denture in a day” Lost or misplaced your dentures? With planning, we can provide you with a new set in 24 hours!
Equipped with solid technical training as a Dental Technician - plus post-technician training in sciences, clinical skills, and interpersonal skills - the Clinical Dental Technician can design, create, construct and modify (repair and rebase) removable appliances to ensure optimal fit, maximum comfort and general wellbeing of patients.
Difficulties in Constructing a Good Set of Dentures Constructing 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.
These skills enable the Clinical Dental Technician, whilst remaining a member of the Dental Health Care Team, to work independently of other Dental Health Care providers.
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.
www.albertroaddenturecentre.co.uk
ALBERT ROAD DENTURE CENTRE
smile w i th co nf i d e nce
Christopher Gower is a Clinical Dental Technician with over 15 years of experience and study. Chris creates bespoke hand crafted dentures using state of the art materials and techniques for an optimum fit and maximum comfort. Visit us for a free of charge 20 minute consultation for new dentures, implants or any denture related problems to discuss your concerns and to find out how we can help you. We can also provide you with a new set of dentures within 24 hours!
We now offer Dental Implants in conjunction with an Implant Specialist. These stabilise troublesome dentures and can truly change lives. Home visits are available, where we come to you for all consultations and fittings. Quality, Convenience and Professionalism are our watchwords and our dedicated team will be with you every step of the way, with a personal, understanding and caring service.
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FREE CONSULTATION
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HANDCRAFTED DENTURES
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DENTURE IN A DAY
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DENTAL IMPLANTS
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EMERGENCY REPAIRS
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HOME VISITS AVAILABLE
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ELECTRONIC DENTURE CLEANING
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ORAL SCREENING SERVICE
Christopher Gower Dip CDT RDT Clinical Dental Technician, Denture Provider Registered with the General Dental Council (no 208200)
71 Albert Road, Colne BB8 0BP | T: 01282 862823 2B Petre Court, Petre Road, Clayton-le-Moors BB5 5HY | T: 01254 416046 Fisher Medical Centre, Millfields, Coach Street, Skipton BD23 1EU | T: 01756 799622 WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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. e f i l y m d e m r o CANW transf ? s r u o y m r o f s n Can they tra Children’s needs and journey into care will be personal to them just as your motivation to foster will be personal to you.
Meet Helen, CANW respite foster carer “Being a respite carer means I can give other foster carers and the children they look after a much needed break.
• Committed social workers & managers
At CANW foster carers are part of the team. It’s as if you’re one big family.
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I want to inspire kids to be the best they can be, and CANW supports me to achieve that.”
• Enthusiastic support team • 24/7 on call support • Regular foster carer groups
Foster for CANW Call today on 0800 634 5300 www.canw.org.uk
Could you get help towards reducing your Council Tax?
You may be able to get help if you have a low income or claim other benefits/pensions. All you need to do is complete the online claim form www.blackburn.gov.uk/benefits
If you already claim help towards your bill and your circumstances change, you need to tell us straight away. The types of changes we need to know about include: l Changes to your address l
Changes to the people you live with – people moving in or out of the household
l
Changes to the income received by you, your partner or anyone else who lives with you
l
Changes to your/your partners savings
l
Changes to your contact details
To complete a change in circumstance form please visit www.blackburn.gov.uk/benefits, visit Blackburn or Darwen Town Hall, or for general advice telephone 01254 585585
Photography of London cast. Design by
THE BROADWAY AND WEST END SMASH HIT MUSICAL COMES TO BLACKPOOL
TUE 19 – SAT 23 JUNE 2018 Tue – Sat 7.30pm. Wed & Sat 2.30pm
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