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LIVERPOOL, SOUTHPORT & WEST LANCS JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 EDITION 38
Cheryl Baker
From Buck's Fizz to Happy Days
Rick Stein's Indian Odyssey
THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 50s
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Scam Watch What’s your favourite prank to play? Whether it’s with unsuspecting friends or the grand-kids, we’ve probably all pulled – and been on the receiving end of – a trick or two in our time. But what about those tricks that aren’t quite as innocent – the ones that are designed to part you with your cash. Well, you’ll be glad we “made you look” as we go through some of the more common pranks you should be on the look-out for. Shoulder surfers: one of the most common ways for fraudsters to acquire your PIN is not through sophisticated techniques of card cloning, but simply by watching over your shoulder as you enter it. Always be wary of people standing behind you at cash points and when entering your PIN in a shop.
Phishing: have you won a lottery you didn’t enter? Had a
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request from “your bank” to confirm your details? These are all phishing scams and you will end up losing money. Look out for the email originating from an unusual address, or failing to address you by name. Some can be more convincing and even look like they have been sent to you by friends. If in doubt, don’t give your details out.
Hang-up, no you hang-up: imagine it – you receive a call from
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Venice from the Water... Spectacular from any angle.
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Robinsons Holidays ... Affordable peace of mind.
12-13 Cheryl's Happy Days ... The bubbly Cockney who helped bring Eurovision alight. 16-17 Interior Design... Room colour and how it affects your mood. 20-23 Out & About ... What’s going on near you? 26-27 Rick Stein ... In search of the perfect curry. McGrath Media. Unit 6 | Moses Gate Workshops Gladys Street | Bolton | BL3 2QG. T: (01204) 796 494 | F: (01204) 791594
your bank telling you your account had been compromised and you need to act fast to save your cash! You’d do exactly as you were told right? But stop, this is a scam. Your bank would take its own steps to prevent fraud on your account, it would never require you to give out your full account number, password, PIN or hand over your card to a courier – ever. Even if you’re convinced you’re on the phone to your bank – never give out this information.
Payment protection insurance (PPI) refunds: you receive a text or call from someone claiming to be your bank, the Ministry of Justice, or a PPI company telling you that you’re owed money from mis-sold PPI. But, you must pay an administration fee before the refund can be processed. Don’t give away any money! If you have a PPI complaint, you can come to the ombudsman for free and save yourself giving your cash to claims managers unnecessarily. Online shopping scams: many of us are beating the queues
by shopping online these days – and the good news is that the majority of transactions are completed with no problem. But always be wary of a seller (or buyer) who asks you to complete transactions outside of the official payment channels like PayPal – as you may find you’re not protected if the item you’re buying, or the money for the goods you’ve sold, doesn’t show up.
We hope these tips help you get ahead of the game. But if you’ve lost out to a fraudster, don’t panic. Tell your bank what’s gone wrong but if you’re still not able to get things sorted out, the ombudsman may be able to help on 0300 123 9 123 or www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk.
e: mcgrathadmin@btconnect.com
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Graham Smith Twitter Column
Boffins carried out extensive dunk-ometer tests on Britain’s five best loved biscuits and found Rich Tea were still going strong after 20 seconds.
It’s no yak An enterprising farming couple believe they are first to introduce the Himalayan yak to Britain. Helen and Matthew Worth have imported the fearsome looking bovid, usually found on the Tibetan plateau, to the rolling fields of rural Cheshire. Unlike domestic cattle yaks can be left out in all weathers happily dealing with temperatures as low as minus 40C. They also sport four foot wide horns, are very nimble on their feet and are quite capable of jumping a five barred gate if spooked. Don’t call me if they need rounding up. Mr and Mrs Worth imported a bull and three female yaks from Germany and Holland. They have already produced two pure-bred calves and hope to produce another bull. They plan to visit local gastro pubs and farmers’ markets to promote the meat- said to be incredibly lean and low in cholesterol and saturated fat.
The chemical, commonly found in radiator and brake fluids, tastes sweet but causes kidney failure when ingested.
Hobnobs, by comparison, began to crumble after just four seconds immersed in a cup of tea, followed a split second later by Ginger Nuts.
Staff wrote on the facility’s blog: “In Australia, the only antidote we have is alcohol. Alcohol alters the chemical reaction and stops the kidney failure from occurring.
Digestives held on for five seconds and Chocolate Digestives took 11 seconds to collapse, but Rich Tea was the clear winner.
“Charlie had a tube placed through his nose to his stomach. Over about 48 hours, he was given successive doses of alcohol.”
The research, led by Dr Stuart Farrimond for biscuit giant McVitie’s, also established the best dunking time for each variety and the best biscuit dunking angle.
“The easiest form of alcohol is vodka. In fact for the whole weekend, Charlie had a huge party with us in the Pet ICU.”
Dr Farrimond also called for a traffic light system on biscuit packets warning dunkers which varieties were high risk and likely to collapse.
Charlie’s owner Jacinta Rosewarne told the Herald Sun:
“Given the danger of a hot biscuit falling onto a clean shirt, there should be a ‘dunk-o-meter’ traffic light advisory system for all packets of cookies and biscuits,” he said.
“He was definitely drunk. “He was stumbling around, I’d go to pat him and he’d push me away like a normal drunk person, he was vomiting a little, whining like a drunk.” Happily, Charlie is now back to good health, and completely sober. Hic!
Binge drinking saves Charlie!
This really takes the biscuit
Vets in Australia saved a dog from certain death - by getting him drunk in a 48 hour vodka binge.
After the most comprehensive study of its kind, scientists say they have proved that Rich Tea biscuits are the best for dunking.
Charlie, a Maltese terrier, was taken to Animal Accident and Emergency in Melbourne suffering from ethylene glycol poisoning. 4
“A red circle would indicate short dunk of under five seconds, amber would advise a five to ten second dip and green for longer.” Isn’t it heartening to know that science is being applied to such important matters?
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Venice from the Water Gillian Thornton has been a freelance journalist for more than 30 years, writing everything from parenting features to celebrity interviews, corporate copy to heritage articles. A member of the British Guild of Travel Writers, she has been concentrating on travel writing since 1998 ‘I never mind where I go,’ she says. ‘There’s always something new to discover.’ On this trip, Gillian stayed in Venice on a river cruiser with Voyages Jules Verne Eager for my first daylight view of the Venetian lagoon, I jumped out of bed, pulled back the curtains and quickly 6
shut them again as a water bus packed with commuters chugged past the window. Fortunately I was half decent, but when you book a lagoon-view cabin on board the MS Michelangelo, it pays to pack your pyjamas. Venice is spectacular from any angle, but it’s hard to imagine a more atmospheric or romantic place to stay than on board the river cruise boat MS Michelangelo on the waters of the lagoon. We booked the Venice from the Water package with Voyages Jules Verne, flying to Venice Marco Polo, where a coach collected the group for the half-hour drive to join our vessel at the Maritime Station. Once everyone was settled, the Michelangelo cruised down the broad
Giudecca Canal, past St Mark’s Square and the Doges’ Palace to the Riva Sette Martiri where it moored for three nights. Given the unique location, we felt it worth paying the small supplements for a lagoon view cabin on the upper deck – you simply can’t put a price on drawing those curtains (carefully!) and watching the flotilla of water vessels from the comfort of your holiday bed. VJV run ‘Venice from the Water’ on selected dates from spring to Autumn. We travelled in early November when you obviously take a gamble with the weather, but the chance to see the city without the crowds more than made up for the grey skies.
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TRAVEL- LEISURE Expect to walk if you want to see Venice properly. Hills are obviously not a problem, but there are many small footbridges up and over the canals so flat shoes are a must. From the Michelangelo’s mooring, it’s a delightful 15-minute stroll to St Mark’s Square, and I’d recommend going back at least once after dinner to enjoy the illuminated square and quiet canals at their most tranquil. By day, the cruise-boat tourists who flock to St Mark’s rarely walked up as far as our floating hotel. The MS Michelangelo is operated by French company Croisi’Europe and we shared it with French and German travellers. Cabins are compact but very comfortable with big picture windows to take advantage of that view, and if you don’t want to pay the lagoon view supplement, the quay option showcases some elegant buildings. The vessel is immaculately maintained and crew were forever cleaning and polishing, inside and out. We found the multinational staff friendly and efficient, and a lot of effort had clearly gone into the crew entertainment on the final evening in the lounge bar – music, comedy and a modest degree of good-natured audience participation. There was also dancing on two nights to international hits performed by a local singer. Or you can just sit back and watch the others strut their stuff over a drink. Venice from the Water offers full board with wine, beer and soft drinks included with lunch and dinner. Our party of six had a table to ourselves, but couples and foursomes have to share, so intimate dinners are a nogo. We found the food consistently good rather than great, mostly safe international favourites, but always
well cooked and attractively presented with three courses at lunch and four at dinner. Special dietary requirements need advance notice though as there is no menu choice, which may not suit fussy eaters.
evening in a historic palazzo on their big day, simply through lack of other interest from other passengers. But they were offered – and much enjoyed – an alternative opera concert in a church.
The package includes a morning cruise of the northern lagoon, past the island of Burano to Torcello. On Day 4, the Michelangelo left its mooring before dawn, gliding silently down the lagoon side of the Lido to the working fishing port of Chioggia where we disembarked to experience a couple of hours in a very different kind of town.
But the real star of the show is the city itself. You can’t beat just walking the canals, turning off down tempting backstreets, and soaking up all those glorious buildings and iconic views from the deck of a water bus up the Grand Canal. And at the end of each atmospheric day, we carried on watching the water traffic of the Venice lagoon through the windows of the Michelangelo, right up until the very last moment when we closed the curtains on one of Europe’s most compelling views. Fabulous.
On top of that, there are optional excursions that include the Doges’ Palace, the craft workshops on Murano and Burano, Padua, and a gondola ride. Be aware though that minimum numbers are generally required. One wedding anniversary couple was disappointed to miss the musical
For further information visit www.vjv.com or call 0845 166 7034
Silver Travel Advisor is a travel review, information and advice website exclusively for over 50’s, packed with articles, suggestions, tips and ideas. For free and independent travel advice as well as reviews about holidays, hotels, restaurants and days out, please visit www.silvertraveladvisor.com or email service@silvertraveladvisor.com. It’s free to register as a member of Silver Travel Advisor, and you could win a fabulous holiday prize.
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Date 05 July 06 July 12 July 13 July 19 July 20 July 26 July 27 July 02 Aug 03 Aug 09 Aug 10 Aug 16 Aug 17 Aug 23 Aug 24 Aug 30 Aug 31 Aug 06 Sep 07 Sep 13 Sep 14 Sep 20 Sep 21 Sep 27 Sep 28 Sep
Date 02 July 06 July 12 July 16 July 20 July 26 July 30 July 03 Aug 09 Aug 13 Aug 17 Aug 23 Aug 27 Aug 31 Aug 06 Sept 10 Sept 14 Sept 20 Sept 24 Sept 28 Sept 04 Oct 08 Oct 12 Oct 18 Oct 22 Oct 26 Oct 01 Nov 05 Nov 09 Nov 15 Nov 19 Nov 23 Nov 29 Nov 03 Dec 07 Dec 13 Dec*
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Canter Levin & Berg Offer Discounted Services For Age UK Mid Mersey Clients Plan for the future A survey undertaken by YouGov, commissioned by Alzheimer’s Research UK, reveals that 31% of respondents, across all ages, fear suffering from dementia more than any other illness. Statistics provided by the Alzheimer’s Society reveal there are almost 700,000 people in the UK with dementia, while the Stroke Association estimates that 130,000 people have a stroke every year. It is likely you know someone who has been affected, and who is unable to manage their financial affairs, or make decisions about their wellbeing. Although many of us are concerned for the future, it is surprising how many of us fail to take advice about protecting our assets and planning for the future by making a will or lasting power of attorney. Hopefully, you will not be affected by dementia or a stroke, but making a Lasting Power of Attorney is a little bit like an insurance policy. You hope you will never need to use it, but it’s good to have the security of knowing it’s in place if you do! In order to make it easier for you to obtain professional advice from qualified lawyers we run advice clinics in the Mid Mersey Information and Advice offices in Golden Square Warrington and Claughton Street in St Helens. We offer discounts to Age UK Mid Mersey clients, and for the remainder of 2014, upon production of/or reference to this advert, we are offering a special discount of 15% on our standard costs for making and registering your Lasting Power of Attorney.
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Hopefully, you will not be affected by dementia or a stroke, but making a Lasting Power of Attorney is a little bit like an insurance policy. While making your Lasting Power of Attorney, don’t forget to make a Will. Did you know, research indicates as many as 70% of UK adults don’t bother making a Will! Many believe everything they have will go directly to their partner or children. This is not always the case. If you die without making a Will your estate will be distributed in accordance with the statutory Rules of Intestacy. This can leave your children with nothing, or sometimes too much of your estate, forcing a sale of the family home to make payment of their inheritance. Without a Will the Law dictates who can administer your estate, and they may not be the people you would choose. If you are not married your partner will not automatically inherit anything from your estate and this could result in them being forced out of the home you have shared together. They would have to make a claim against your estate to receive any benefit and this is stressful as well as a lengthy and costly process. By making a Will you ensure your estate passes to those family members, friends or the charities you wish to benefit. Your will can also be used to reduce or remove any inheritance tax burden that may arise upon your death, leaving more for your family.
Canter Levin & Berg offer a 5% discount on the standard costs of our Will service to Age UK Mid Mersey clients.
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Some of the issues we cover include:
Our information services running in Warrington, St Helens, and Halton are free, confidential and cover a wide range of issues. The information service is committed to supporting older people and their carers. When you use our service, you can be assured of a professional and caring service accredited to the CLS quality standards by the Legal Services Commission. We can help with benefits queries and other money matters, health and help at home, housing, transport enquiries, understanding documents and much more. The service is free, private and confidential and if we can’t help you we’ll put you in touch with someone who can. The information service has supported more than 8,000 enquiries over the last year, including assisting people to claim welfare benefits to the total of £350,000.
Debt Consumer Housing Disability Leisure Health Welfare and benefits Care issues Call in and see us (by appointment) at the Age UK information and advice centre Golden Square Shopping Centre, 14 Sankey Street, Warrington.
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CHERYL’S HAPPY DAYS When it comes to making your mind up about careers to take talented young Cheryl Baker must have had plenty of choices. The bubbly Cockney who helped bring Eurovision alight in Buck’s Fizz when she and fellow group member Jay Aston had their skirts whipped off did, however, just have one goal in mind. “I always wanted to sing,” she explains. We are chatting half-way through a six-month tour of “Happy Days – The Musical” – the show based on the famous American TV sitcom first broadcast in the 1970s which gave a snapshot of family life in the mid-50s and ‘60s. It spawned the character of The Fonz, a hip youngster who caught the imagination of fans across the world and definitely proved a big hit in England. “In fact, the series was actually bigger in this country than in America itself,” informs Cheryl. In the show, she takes the part of Mrs Marion Cunningham, Fonz’s ditzy Mrs C who unintentionally is extremely funny. Cheryl loves the role, and the whole show. “It really is wonderful,” she enthuses. “The music by Paul Williams is just fantastic and the show is written by the same person who wrote the original TV series so the characters really come to life.” Cheryl herself is a larger-than-life character who has endeared herself to the public, at home and abroad, since the Eurovision Song Contest and the group’s first hit record Making Your Mind Up. She had actually been in Eurovision before that, with Co-Co in 1978, but their song, The Bad Old Days, could only manage 11th place. When Cheryl was contacted by Nichola Martin, who was setting up a new group under the name Buck’s Fizz with a view to entering another song, she joined up. The rest, as they say, is musical history: Making Your Mind Up was a global hit, and Buck’s Fizz went on to five years of success and more hit singles. Perhaps, though, it was always meant to be that Cheryl with all her personality and likeability was
destined for a variety of other things. And that has certainly been the case. A quick look at her c.v. reads like an agent’s dream: she’s appeared in and hosted TV programmes from Record Breakers to Walking the Dog, from baking series to slimming challenges and regularly presented programmes live. She’s done panto, radio and appeared in drama like Dial M For Murder and musicals like Footloose, so her latest incarnation should really be no surprise. “I’m not the kind of person who could ever sit at home and do nothing anyway,” states Cheryl, now 60. “I’ve got a mortgage and bills to pay like everyone else so I’ve got to work. But I think I like doing something creative, and always will. “Mind you, I still get the heeby-jeebies about going on stage in something new. I’m used to the music and lines in this show now, but I think I’m the kind of person to always get those nerves and that adrenaline and you do use that. I come off stage and I feel like I’ve done something really worthwhile.” As well as stage and TV work – she’s due to appear in an edition of TV favourite Pointless in Eurovision week this year – she, Jay Aston and Mike Nolan are still making appearances as Buck’s Fizz. “Yes, I’m still getting that skirt whipped off!” she laughs. “We love it all and people still seem to love the group and that period. We often appear in retro shows and they stand at the front and sing the songs and they know all the words. They even scream when the skirts go off!” When she’s not being Cheryl Baker, entertainer, she lives at home in Kent with her husband of 21 years, Steve Stroud, and their 19 year-old twin daughters Kyla and Natalie. So have the girls seen the show and are they familiar with Happy Days? “They’ve been a couple of times and love it, although they didn’t know the show at all,” says Cheryl.
She believes that Happy Days was a big success originally because it showed us all an idyllic view of what American life seemed to be. In spite of being a real-life Eastender born in Bethnal Green with an accent she’s never lost, she doesn’t find it hard to adopt an American accent for the show. “It’s easy,” she instructs. “You just have to roll your r’s and soften your t’s. Just try it.” Cheryl has never been shy about the weight problem that sometimes shows itself. “I can put on a stone either way anytime,” she asserts. “I’m not the kind of person to be huge, because my parents weren’t, but I’m always on a diet and it’s something I have to watch.” The travelling and unpredictable lifestyle of touring is not ideal for keeping to a healthy regime and this is something that Cheryl addresses. “I started running marathons a few years ago and I still go out for four or five miles when I’m on tour,” she adds. “Running burns the calories and does help to keep you fit. I’ve got little legs like a footballer – just like Bobby Moore’s – but they’ve definitely gone leaner with running.” People warm to Cheryl, they probably always have but her high profile on TV mean that they often feel they know her. “Yes, I’ve always liked that really,” she states. “Our audiences now are great - even though the songs are new, because they’re good and catchy people are enjoying the whole experience.” As for what happens after the tour – which goes all around the country from Sunderland to The Lowry in Salford – one thing is absolutely certain. Cheryl Baker won’t be retiring any day soon. “When you’re doing something you love, and you’re still able to do that, why on earth would you retire?” And then for Cheryl Baker, performer for all seasons, it was back to preparing for that day’s performance in Cambridge - and the warm glow that comes from an audience enjoying their own happy days.
For more information go to happydaysthemusical.com
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Louise Berry
Head of Wills, Trusts & Probate
Why planning for the future is crucial at any age... Cassell Moore comments on the importance of having a will to ensure your loved ones and assets are protected. 14
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“One in three people in the UK die without making a will” according to Louise Berry, head of wills, trusts and probate at the North West based law firm. “This is a shocking statistic, particularly given how hard most people work to earn a living for a significant period of their lives. “However, it seems that despite working hard to build their futures not everyone considers their legacy and ensures the correct people receive their wealth after they are gone.”
Completing a will with Cassell Moore guarantees: � You can set out exactly who you wish to benefit and when � You can choose your executors, the people in charge of administering your estate � You can appoint guardians for your children � You can look at ways to minimise inheritance tax � You can make arrangements for your business (if you own one), to maximise tax savings, and to ensure that your business interests are transferred to the correct individuals as smoothly as possible � You can protect a share of your estate for vulnerable beneficiaries who you might not want to receive large sums of cash outright, for example children or disabled beneficiaries � You can protect beneficiaries who are going through matrimonial or financial difficulties, such as divorce or bankruptcy
you are living together) unless you are married or in a civil partnership. “In short, relying on the intestacy rules may not give you or your family what you want. In my area of work, I have unfortunately come across many distressing situations for my clients which could easily have been avoided if a carefully drafted will had been in place. “A will ensures that after you are gone, your family aren’t left with any costly and unnecessary headaches, which is why completing one should be an essential part of your wealth planning strategy.” Louise Berry has specialised in Wills, Trusts and Probate work for over 10 years. She advises on all aspects of Inheritance Tax Planning, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection work. Louise has a wealth of experience in devising Will structures for complex family circumstances and business owners where bespoke Wills and Inheritance Tax Planning are required.
� You can rest assured that your wishes will be carried out “Don’t assume that these matters will be taken care of if you haven’t got a specially prepared will in place” says Louise. “Dying without a will means that your estate will be distributed according to the intestacy rules. These rules are sometimes overly complicated and do not, for example, provide anything for partners (even if www.50plusmagazine.co.uk
For more information, visit cassellmoore.com or email louiseberry@cassellmoore.com. You can also telephone on 0151 375 9970. 15
HOME first and then decide on your paint colour. Once you find something you like, limit the number of colours in a room to no more than three or four. Too many colours can make a room look busy or cluttered. Paint is fairly inexpensive and transforms a room more quickly than anything else, so you can afford to experiment a little.
Room Colour and How it Affects Your Mood The colours of the rooms within your home need to bring out your personality. While most of us may not spend a lot of time thinking about room colour, it affects every day of our lives. Room colour can influence our mood and our thoughts. Colour affects people in many ways, depending upon one’s age, gender, ethnic background or local climate. Certain colours or groups of colours tend to get a similar reaction from most people – the overall difference being in the shade or tones used. So when it comes to decorating, it is important to choose wisely. In order to have a beautiful home, you do not have to worry about trends. Colour trends will come and go. The people who live in a home make it beautiful by choosing colours that reflect their likes and their personalities. The trick is to blend those colours you like into a pleasing combination. Choosing colour combinations is one of the most intimidating steps for beginners. Colour has the power to change the shape and size of furnishings as well as the shape and size of the room itself. Selecting colours is not
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difficult if you equip yourself with some basic information about colour and its effects, so let’s find out more about room colours, and how these influence your mood. Choose Wisely! Keep in mind that each colour has a psychological value. Think about how those colours make you feel- they can influence any feeling from tranquility to rage. So when trying to create peace and harmony in your home, choose your colours wisely. Some colours in large amounts will have just the opposite affect on you and your loved ones’ moods. What mood do you want to create? Which colours will help you achieve that mood? Find clear answers to these questions. If you find this task difficult try to look at magazines, decorating books, blogs and websites for ideas, or let your fabric be your guide. In fact, this is a good approach to take even if you’re starting from scratch. Fabric, carpeting, furniture and tile are available in a more limited range of colours than paint, so choose them
Room Colors and Their Effects Understand that colours behave in three basic ways : active, passive, and neutral. You can easily match every room’s colours to your personal desires, to your taste taste and to the room’s purpose. Light colours are expansive and airy, making rooms seem larger and brighter. Dark colours are sophisticated and warm; they give large rooms a more intimate appearance. Now let’s find out more about colours and what they can do to a room: Red raises a room’s energy level. It is a good choice when you want to stir up excitement, particularly at night. In the living room or dining room, red draws people together and stimulates conversation. In an entryway, it creates a strong first impression. Red has been shown to raise blood pressure, speed respiration and heart rate. It is usually considered too stimulating for bedrooms, but if you’re only in the room after dark, you’ll be seeing it mostly by lamplight, when the colour will appear muted, rich, and elegant. Red, the most intense, pumps the adrenaline like no other hue. Yellow captures the joy of sunshine and communicates happiness. It is perfect for kitchens, dining rooms, and bathrooms, where happy colours are energising and uplifting. In halls, entries, and small spaces, yellow can feel expansive and welcoming. Even though yellow although is a cheery colour, it is not a good choice to use in main colour schemes when it comes to designing a room. Studies show that people are more likely to lose their temper in a yellow interior. Babies also seem to cry more in a yellow room. In large amounts, this colour tends to create feelings of frustration and anger in people. In chromotherapy, yellow is believed to stimulate the nerves and purify the body.
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out of fashion, but their virtue lies in their flexibility: Add colour to liven things up; subtract it to calm things down. Black is best used in small doses as an accent. Indeed, some experts maintain that every room needs a touch of black to ground the colour scheme and give it depth. To make the job easier, you can rely on the interior designer’s most important colour tool: the colour wheel.
Purple is rich, dramatic, and sophisticated.
Blue is said to bring down blood pressure and slow respiration and heart rate. That is why it is considered calming, relaxing and serene, and it is often recommended for bedrooms and bathrooms. Be careful, however: a pastel blue that looks pretty on the paint chip can come across as unpleasantly chilly when it is on the walls and furnishings, especially in a room that receives little natural light. If you opt for a light blue as the primary colour in a room, balance it with warm hues for the furnishings and fabrics. To encourage relaxation in the social areas (family rooms, living rooms, large kitchens) consider warmer blues, such as periwinkle, or bright blues, such as cerulean or turquoise. Blue is known to have a calming effect when used as the main colour of a room. Go for softer shades of blue. Dark blue has the opposite effect, evoking feelings of sadness. So refrain from using darker blues in your main colour scheme. Stay with the lighter shades of blue to give you and your loved ones a calm effect. Green is considered the most restful colour for the eye. Combining the refreshing quality of blue and the cheerfulness of yellow, green is suited for almost any room in the house. In the kitchen, green cools things down; in a family room or living room,
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it encourages unwinding but has enough warmth to promote comfort and togetherness. Green also has a calming effect when used as a main colour for decorating. It is believed to relieve stress by helping people relax. Also believed to help with fertility, making it a great choice for the bedroom. Purple in its darkest values (eggplant, for example) is rich, dramatic, and sophisticated. It is associated with luxury as well as creativity, and as an accent or secondary colour, it gives a scheme depth. Lighter versions of purple, such as lavender and lilac, bring the same restful quality to bedrooms as blue does, but without the risk of feeling chilly. Orange evokes excitement, enthusiasm and is an energetic colour. While not a good idea for a living room or for bedrooms, this colour is great for an exercise room. It will bring out all the emotions that you need released during your fitness routine. In ancient cultures orange was believed to heal the lungs and increase energy levels.
Crimson can make some people feel irritable. Invoking feelings of rage and hostility, this is a colour that should be avoided as the main colour of a room. Sitting for long periods of time in a room painted in this colour will likely affect the peace and harmony you are striving to create in your home. Colour Effects on Walls and Ceiling The ceiling represents one-sixth of the space in a room, but too often it gets nothing more than a coat of white paint. In fact, for decades, white has been considered not only the safest but also the best choice for ceilings. As a general rule, ceilings that are lighter than the walls feel higher, while those that are darker feel lower. Lower need not mean claustrophobic: visually lowered ceilings can evoke cosy intimacy. As a general rule, dark walls make a room seem smaller, and light walls make a room seem larger. Conclusion These general guidelines are a good starting point in your search for a paint colour. But remember that colour choice is a very personal matter. You are the one who has to live with your new paint colour, so choose a hue that suits you, your family and your lifestyle.
Neutrals (black, grey, white, and brown) are basic to the decorator’s tool kit. All-neutral schemes fall in and 17
Philip Morrison has provided Life Transformational Dentures for over 20 years What is a Clinical Dental Technician A Clinical Dental Technician or CDT is a registered Dental Care Professional who is trained and qualified to offer a range of Denture Services – services that were previously only available through your Dentist. Philip Morrison BSc Dip CDT RCS Eng was introduced to dentistry as a child in his father’s dental clinic and went on to gain over 20 years of experience as a dental technician. A graduate of Manchester University, Philip continued his education and became a Clinical Dental Technician with the Royal College of Surgeons England. He has extensive hands on experience in Ivoclar™ dentures, dentures over implants, as well as Straumann™ Platinum Technician status. Philip has earned a reputation for creating high quality dentures while providing clients with compassionate and gentle care. His greatest joy comes from seeing the new confident, genuine smiles on his clients’ faces. If you would like your new dentures to replicate all the favourable aspects of your existing Dentures, then a Clinical Dental Technician can help you. From copying exact tooth position and shape, to improving the way they fit with your
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mouth and gums – your Copy Dentures will be just like the Dentures you have now, only better.
Imagine only you and your CDT know you wear dentures Dental Solutions Denture Clinic has become synonymous with providing the very best in denture care and quality in its warm and inviting environment. Located in the heart of the Wirral, the Clinic focuses on personal, one-on-one care, creating a unique approach to each patient’s needs and desires.
Do you want the confidence of a natural smile? Dental Solutions Denture Clinic offers a variety of dentures to meet your needs, including full, partial and immediate dentures. We use premium quality materials and expert craftsmanship to ensure a unique and perfect fit, never compromising on comfort or aesthetics.
Our patients tell us their confidence has been restored due to our professional approach, caring attitude, and attention to detail. We look forward to meeting you soon and beginning your journey towards a new smile.
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Implant Retained Dentures The preferred method of tooth replacement is the dental implant, due to its unparalleled stability and long-term patient satisfaction. Implants are truly a cut above conventional denture treatments, and many patients who have chosen this option report they are happy and comfortable for the first time since the loss of their natural teeth.
Benefits of Implant Retained Dentures • Confidence when smiling, laughing and talking • Your chewing ability is restored • Taste is not compromised, as the palate is not covered • Suitable even in cases where bone loss has already occurred • Further bone loss is prevented • No more loose dentures.
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to me. I am so pleased with the final results. My
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Thank you so much for the service you have given teeth look so natural and just how I wanted them to look. Thank you for all your efforts.
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Smile Makeover
JOIN US
Free 30 Minute Consultation BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW Please contact us for more information or to arrange a free smile consultation with one of our smile advisors.
0151 678 9833 Dental Solutions Denture Clinic
Arrowe Brook www.50plusmagazine.co.uk
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e: info@dentalsolutions.org.uk www.dentalsolutions.org.uk
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OUT and ABOUT
Places to visit and things to do...
THEATRE RHYTHM OF THE DANCE Thurs 24th July Southport Theatre www.liverpooltheatres.com
This incredible live show celebrates both the rich history of Ireland as well as the art of Irish dance. Rhythm of the Dance has heralded a new era in Irish entertainment, featuring thirty dancers, a traditional live full Irish band and the dashing and handsome Young Irish Tenors.
Rock of Ages
AVENUE Q
Monday 21st to Wednesday 23rd July The Theatre Royal, St. Helens www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com AVENUE Q is a laugh-out-loud musical that tells the story of a recent college graduate named PRINCETON who moves into a shabby New York apartment all the way out on Avenue Q. There, he meets KATE (the girl next door), ROD (the Republican), TREKKIE (the internet sexpert), LUCY THE SLUT and other colorful types who help PRINCETON finally discover his true purpose in life!
ROCK OF AGES
Monday 21st to Saturday 26th July 2014 The Empire Theatre, Liverpool www.liverpooltheatres.com The legendary show described as a ‘Great Experience’ ROCK OF AGES is the worldwide smash-hit that features a potent mix of 80s-themed hilarity and eyebrow scorching tunes, including: Don’t Stop Believin’, We Built This City and The Final Countdown.
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Peter Pan
PETER PAN
Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th July The Brindley, Runcorn www.thebrindley.org.uk Sparkling with fairy dust and full of timeless magical moments, this musical adaptation is unsurpassed for its unique mix of music, spectacle, action adventure and high flying. Wendy Darling and her brothers meet Peter Pan when he flies into their nursery one night after many bedtime stories of swordplay and the fearsome Captain Hook. Peter takes them by the hand and leads them to the jungles of Neverland. Presented by ABD Productions.
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR Wednesday 10th to Friday 12th September 2014 The Theatre Royal, St. Helens www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com The Phoenix Youth Theatre are
Les Miserables proud to present Andrew Lloyd Webber’s global phenomenon. Showcasing a cast of the Northwest’s most talented young performers aged 16-18, a live 9-piece orchestra and featuring hit songs such as Heaven on Their Minds, Gethsemane and I Don’t Know How To Love Him, Jesus Christ Superstar is sure to leave you wanting more.
LES MISERABLES
Wednesday 3rd to Saturday 6th September The Brindley, Runcorn www.thebrindley.org.uk Award winning youth group CODYS Productions proudly present the world’s longest running hit musical! Set against the backdrop of 19th Century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of unrequited love and broken dreams, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. www.50plusmagazine.co.uk
JOOLS HOLLAND Saturday 19th July Liverpool Echo Arena www.echoarena.com
The Drifters
As the UK’s most popular pianist and bandleader, Jools Holland OBE has performed and recorded with some of the most talented musicians and songwriters in the world, including Eric Clapton, the late George Harrison and Luther Vandross, Sting, BB King and Paul Weller.
ROY ORBISON & FRIENDS Saturday 16th August Southport Theatre www.liverpooltheatres.com
If you love good music, then this is the show for you as Barry Steele presents his all live spectacular Multi Media Tribute to The Big O, featuring classic Orbison hits from the 60’s right through to the Late 80’s Using both Original and film footage from the era.
Jools Holland
The Larry Miller Band
THE ILLEGAL EAGLES
26th September The Theatre Royal, St. Helens www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com
MUSIC THE DRIFTERS
Thursday 10th July The Empire Theatre, Liverpool www.liverpooltheatres.com As one of the longest serving bands in history, The Drifters have collated a huge catalogue of over 50 hits, selling in excess of 214 million singles and 114 million albums across the world. Since their creation, the line up of The Drifters has undergone many changes with more than 60 different singers.
LARRY MILLER BAND Saturday 19th July The Citadel, St. Helens www.citadel.org.uk
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Guitarist Larry Miller is now more popular than ever and is undeniably one of the must see blues/rock acts. He is famous for his mesmerising guitar playing and high octane shows in the UK and around Europe, bringing his unique showmanship and energy to every performance. He holds the record for the most encores at The Cambridge Rock Festival, playing to capacity crowds and standing ovations. Larry has been broadcast live from The Great British R&B Festival on BBC Radio 2 and has headlined The Rory Gallagher International Festival in Ireland and Holland. Larry will play songs from his recent critically acclaimed live double album ‘Live & Outlawed’ and from his back catalogue of studio albums.
Following a number of critically acclaimed UK & European Tours, The Illegal Eagles have established themselves as, not only the ultimate tribute to The Eagles, but as one of the foremost authentic and talented theatrical experiences in the world! Vocalist Greg Webb now joins the classic line-up of members Phil Aldridge, Keith Atack, Al Vosper and Darin Murphy and Garreth Hicklin. Together Garreth & Greg’s abilities to capture the emotion of Don Henley’s vocal deliveries, has ensured that critical and audience acclaim has been unanimous. This latest production brings you all the classics - Hotel California, Take It Easy, Lyin’ Eyes, Life in the Fast Lane, Take it to the Limit, Tequila Sunrise, Desperado …and a whole lot more!
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OUT and ABOUT
Places to visit and things to do...
DAYS OUT & EVENTS SOUTHPORT FLOWER SHOW 14th - 17th August Victoria Park www.southportflowershow.co.uk
Located in Victoria Park and within easy walking distance of the town centre, Southport Flower Show takes place from 14th - 17th August 2014. Attracting around 70,000 visitors, the event will feature stunning show gardens, the finest flower and vegetable displays, specialist foods and books, celebrity guests and much more. Southport Flower Show, the UK’s largest independent flower show and a great day out. There are fantastic group discounts available for groups of 10 or more.
AIR SHOW
20th - 21st September Southport Seafront The Southport Air Show on the seafront is one of the largest aviation events in the North West. Attracting over 80,000 visitors over the two days with a packed flying programme and activities on the beach, this family event is not to be missed!
Southport Flower Show a unique sight not to be missed so make sure you arrive early. The flying programme starts from midday and in the past the Red Arrows have impressed the audience with their patriotic displays and aerobatics. The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is also a firm favourite with the audience, commemorating World War II with their display. Aircraft announced so far for this year are:-
The Show opens at 9am with attractions on the ground such as static aircraft, bungee trampolines, assault courses, water walkers and the Model Aero Club flying display.
The Red Arrows The Typhoon The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight The Tutor The Tucano
From 10am you can witness light aircraft landing on the purpose built runway on the beach. With Southport being the only Air Show in the UK that can facilitate this, it is
SOUTHPORT COMEDY FESTIVAL
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This year’s festival has a truly international flavour with over 40 comedians from all over the globe (Malawi, Ireland, Canada, Scotland, Iran, Germany) descending on our lovely seaside town for 10 days of hilarity, using some great venues this year including The Atkinson, Southport Pier, Ramada Plaza Hotel, Bold Hotel and the brand new Genting Club who are the associate sponsors of this year’s festival. There are so many different styles of comedy on offer from totally adult alternative to squeaky clean for senior citizens plus the return of the children’s comedy festival, so please turn off your TV’s and come and have a laugh.
16th - 25th October Southport Town Centre and numerous venues
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EMBRACE THE BRITISH SUMMER
Liverpool Food & Drink Festival
Become a Bumblebee Walker! A country walk on a summer day is pretty unbeatable. With the scent of flowers and the sound of the birds and bees it is the perfect time to be outside. But this year the Bumblebee Conservation Trust is asking people not just to walk and enjoy the countryside instead they are inviting everyone to help them by monitoring the bumblebee population in a national census across the whole of the UK.
Southport Air Show
LIVERPOOL FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL
19th, Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st September. Sefton Park Liverpool Food and Drink Festival is returning to Sefton Park, Friday Now in it’s 7th year, the festival is a celebration of the city’s fantastic restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as some of the finest regional food producers. Sefton Park will be transformed into a weekend ‘food heaven’, bringing together more than 160 talented local chefs and producers to serve up a giant feast for the public. This year’s additional Friday evening event will toast the great British pub with a celebration of pub grub, real ales, spirits, live music and entertainment. There will also be an exclusive fine dining experience, as well as a street food zone and a hand-picked selection of producers, showcasing everything from posh pork pies, cheeses and olives to coffee, fudge and liqueurs. The area will then be transformed overnight to become the familiar www.50plusmagazine.co.uk
Tony Law: Southport Comedy Festival Liverpool Food and Drink Festival, which will include the usual great mix of food, drink, TV chefs and entertainment. On Saturday and Sunday, chefs will be cooking up a feast for the public, and over producers will showcase their tasty treats. There will also be a ‘chocolate area’, an ‘edible garden’ a ‘children’s zone’, dedicated to family entertainment, as well as a whole programme of masterclasses and celebrity chef demos. Celebrations will then continue for a whole week with special food and drink events at venues across the city, including the Liverpool Food & Drink Awards, designed to recognise talent within the local hospitality industry. Get involved for a weekend of great food, drink, cooking demos and entertainment!
Bumblebees are an essential part of the countryside, responsible as they are for pollinating our crops and wildflowers and ensuring the food we need, can grow and be harvested. It is a little known fact that without bumblebees, fruits such as tomatoes, apples and strawberries would simply cease to exist. BeeWalks are simple and fun, and offer an education experience for all the family to get involved in. By either attending a guided walk or by creating your own route and recording the bumblebees seen in your area, you can help the Bumblebee Conservation Trust monitor how the bumblebee population is changing. To find out how to get involved in creating your own Bumblebee walk route or where you can join in on one of the many guided trips set up for families across the country, please visit www.bumblebeeconservation.org. Full information on what to look out for when launching your own walk is also available online. 23
Divorce vs Business When we embark on Marriage we do it with good heart and in good faith, and assume we will be together with our partners for the rest of our lives. The reality is rather different and sadly Divorce has become more and more common, causing major problems for those in business for themselves.
The three main Scenarios are as follows: 1. Husband and Wife work together. 2. One spouse works in the Business, the other stays at home. 3. One spouse owns a Business prior to Marriage.
For points 1 and 2, it is important to understand that any financial settlement will include a valuation of the Business (as this is deemed one of the assets of the marriage), this will be determined by a number of things, including current market conditions and the Business Accounts, One of the areas that Tracey personally specialises in is dealing with complicated financial settlements involving substantial assets. In her 25 years of practice, she has dealt with small family business’s right up to multi-million pound cases involving Large Business’s, Property Portfolios, Pensions, Family Trusts and a variety of other high net worth assets. Over the years, Tracy Miller Family Law has been extremely successful in delivering a top class service along with excellent results for our clients. Our approach to these type of cases is always “settlement orientated but court room ready”, minimising the costs where possible, however should the need arise, we are ably supported by a top class professional team of Forensic Accountants, Business Consultants, IFAS and of course the Highest Quality Barristers, most of whom I have worked with for many years.
• Divorce & Judicial Separation • Financial Settlements • Civil Partnerships • Prenuptial agreements • 7 days a week service
For point 3, this is where a prenuptial agreement will play its part, and is especially important if a Business has been a “family business” of one of the parties for a period of time.
Over the years, Tracy Miller Family Law has been extremely successful in delivering a top class service along with excellent results for our clients.
Back in October 2010 the world of family law was changed forever with the land mark decision by the Supreme Court in the case of Radmacher and Granatino. Whilst pre-nuptial agreements have never been legally binding in this country, the Supreme Court in effect held that in future pre-nuptial Agreements will be given much more weight by the family courts on divorce unless they are considered unfair. We at Tracey Miller Family Law specialise in Divorce & Judicial Separation, Financial Settlements involving Business, Civil Partnerships and Prenuptial Agreements. (We also specialise in all children matters). One of the main differences between TMFL and other solicitors is that we are the Only Family Law Firm in The North West to offer a 7 day a week service, which means we are available to speak to, even over a weekend. The other advantage for Business People is that we can also arrange to meet you at your Business Premises or at a place which is convenient to you. Quote 50 Plus Magazine for an ENTIRELY FREE OF
CHARGE, NO TIME LIMIT, INITIAL CONSULTATION.
Contact us... 0151 515 3036 or 07795 060211 or visit our website on www.traceymillerfamilylaw.com
FOOD & DRINK
YESTERDAY’S FISH CURRY
Rick Stein: In search of the perfect curry Extracted from Rick Stein’s India by Rick Stein, BBC Books hardback £25 Photography: James Murphy
SERVES 4 – 6 60ml vegetable oil 1 medium onion, thinly sliced 15g/3cm piece ginger, finely grated 50g/10 cloves garlic, half crushed to a paste, half thinly sliced 8 fresh curry leaves 1 tbsp Kashmiri chilli powder 1/2 tsp ground tumeric
1 tbsp ground coriander 1/2 tsp toasted ground
fenugreek 1 tbsp rice flour or plain flour 2 tomatoes sliced 2 tbsp sliced smoked kokum, washed and soaked in 100ml boiling water for 15 minutes 500ml water 11/2 tsp salt 1 tsp sugar 500g salmon fillet, cut into 3cm chunks 1 tsp coconut oil, warmed to its liquid state, to finish.
This recipe comes from a book called The Suriani Kitchen. The author, Lathika George, who took me on a fascinating trip round a frenetic market just outside Cochin, is an authority on Keralan cooking. She explained that it’s called ‘yesterday’s curry’ because everybody thinks it’s much better the next day. I came across the same curry all over the place - in a kitchen so smoky I couldn’t stay in there for more than a minute at a time, where it featured a giant kingfish head; at the house where I was filmed cooking lots of the recipes in the book, where the cook Mallika had one on every day; and in the hotel where we all stayed for about two weeks. The hotel was the sort of place of air-conditioned comfort where you go quietly mad for want of the warp and weft of everyday Indian life; we had to leave at six o’clock every morning to work a twelve-hour day in enervating humidity. As a matter of interest, I first tasted this dish years ago in a restaurant in central London called Rasa Samudra, and then as now, was taken by its spicy redness and the smoky flavour and souring effect of kokum. As if it wasn’t hard enough to get hold of kokum anyway, now you need to make sure it’s the smoky sort - but don’t worry, tamarind is nearly as good. 26
Method Heat the oil in a heavy-based pan or karahi over a medium heat, add the onion and fry for 5 minutes until softened. Add the ginger, crushed and sliced garlic and curry leaves and fry for 2 minutes. Stir in the chilli powder, ground spices and flour and a splash of water, and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes, kokum (plus soaking water) or tamarind, water, salt and sugar and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the salmon and cook for a further 5 minutes. Remove from the heat, drizzle with coconut oil and serve.
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SPICY SCRAMBLED EGGS Ande bhujia
In India this makes a great snack with a stack of parathas and a dab of chilli garlic relish. But, more importantly, it’s fabulous for breakfast, and since not many people will have gone for breakfast to an Indian restaurant in the UK, it might come as a very pleasant surprise.
SHIP A traditional ‘Great British Pub’ The Ship at Lathom serves a wide range of real ales – with always at least six on offer; premium lagers and stouts; fine wines and spirits – including a range of malt whiskies. There’s always a welcoming and relaxed environment with friendly, attentive and knowledgeable staff to make your visit an extra special one...
SERVES 2-3 2 tbsp vegetable oil 2 large red onions, diced 2-3 fresh green chillies, chopped, with seeds 1/2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper 3 tomatoes, diced
6 free-range eggs, lightly beaten with 1/2 tsp salt 1 tsp toasted ground cumin seeds 2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander Parathas to serve.
Method Heat the oil in a frying pan over a medium heat and fry the onions for 10 minutes until golden brown. Add the chillies and black pepper and fry for 2 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and cook, uncovered, for 5-10 minutes until the tomatoes have softened and reduced to a jammy consistency. Lower the heat slightly and add the beaten eggs to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes without stirring, then gently lift and turn them in the pan. Continue cooking, folding once or twice more, until almost set, then sprinkle over the cumin and fold through. Finish with the chopped coriander and serve with warm parathas.
The Food At The Ship you can indulge in traditional country inn dining with fresh food that is locally sourced, much from premium local specialist suppliers. The food is prepared on the premises by a resident team of local chefs, supplementing a core menu of British staple foods with specials that really are special – including a range of vegan dishes. Barrista coffees are prepared from locally roasted beans by fully trained staff. Food all day – full menu ‘til 9pm (8pm on Sundays); Booking advisable.
4 WHEAT LANE, LATHOM, WEST LANCS L40 4BX
TEL: 01704-893117
EMAIL: INFO@SHIPATLATHOM.CO.UK
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BT Engineers Deafness Claims 28
Hampson Hughes Solicitors are currently acting on behalf of a number of clients who have suffered noise induced hearing loss whilst working as engineers for British Telecom.
These engineers were using “tone sets” which are essentially oscillators and amplifiers used to detect certain faults on lines.This is essential maintenance work which they were required to carry out on a daily basis, and there was no other way around it than to listen with these sets. BT engineers who have also worked in, or around, the construction side of the business have also suffered significant hearing loss. These engineers have used or been in the vicinity of machines such as jackhammers, kango’s and mole ploughs. Both types of engineers have complained about hearing problems such as having to turn the television up ‘too loud’, missing conversation, struggling with telephone conversations, and quite commonly a hissing or buzzing noise known as tinnitus.
There is no need for you to have visited your doctor or had your hearing tested of your own accord. As part of the claim process with Hampson Hughes Solicitors, we will arrange for you to see an Ear, Nose & Throat Specialist (Otolaryngology) and Audiologist, who will be able to diagnose the loss you have incurred. The ENT specialist will also be able to recommend to you any future treatment which may be beneficial. There are certain time limits imposed upon bringing a claim against a previous employer for Noise Induced Hearing Loss. In these cases it is limited to 3 years from the date of when you first realised you had hearing loss and linked it to your employment. Each case is decided upon its individual merits, so we advise you contact Hampson Hughes Solicitors as a matter of urgency to allow our expert team to investigate your potential claim without delay.
Many of our clients report not having noticed hearing loss at all. This is because it is such a gradual thing. Family members are often the ones who point out that their hearing is deteriorating. If you feel you may have even had the slightest damage to your hearing, our team of specialists may be able to help you determine whether this is the case. Maybe you’ve noticed hearing problems in a family member?
We are here to help. BT themselves have made admissions as to their liability with these claims. They accept that the “green” and “unmodified yellow” tone sets emitted excessively high noise levels, often over 80 decibels, thus causing hearing difficulties for the user.
Thanks to this admission from BT, these claims are now generally easier and quicker to process. A simple causative link is needed to be established in order to succeed now that liability has been admitted. The compensation gained from claiming for this hearing loss could prove essential for future therapy for tinnitus, and the possibility of requiring expensive hearing aids.
Other areas we cover: Accidents at Work Accident Management Accidents on Holiday Catastrophic Injuries Dog Bites Head Injuries Industrial Disease Medical Negligence Passengers Rehabilitation Road raffic Accident Slips, Trips & Falls Uninsured Motor Claims
Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority Firm Number 512839
If you or someone you know has suffered hearing loss as a result of working for BT, contact Hampson Hughes Industrial Disease Team on
0800 888 6888
or email industrialdisease@hampsonhughes.com
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PRIZE DRAW Located in the heart of the Lancashire countryside, this award-winning five-star Visit Britain holiday destination is just 10 minutes from the seaside towns of Blackpool and Lytham St Annes.
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You can choose from a midweek break or a weekend visit. Your break includes a stay in a luxury self-catering Poppy cottage, which can accommodate up to six people. The cottages all have a living room, kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite, two separate bedrooms and a family bathroom, plus their own patio and barbecue area and a private parking space. Ribby Hall Village has plenty of facilities and activities to keep the family entertained, such as horse riding, segways, archery, a golf course and a gym. You’ll have unlimited use of the swimming pools, play areas and fishing ponds, too. There are also lots of great bars, restaurants including Starbucks, Papa John’s pizza store & takeaway and family fun and adult only entertainment venues. Prices start from just £280 for a family cottage for four nights.
Ribby Hall Village’s have some fantastic offers. Call 0800 085 1717 8am-8pm, seven days a week. Name:................................................................................ Address:............................................................................ ........................................................................................... Tel:......................................................................................
Post your entry to: McGrath Media Unit 6 Moses Gate Workshops, Gladys Street, Farnworth, Bolton BL3 2QG.
Email:................................................................................. Closing date for entries: 31.8.14. Winner will be notified by post. Terms and Conditions apply to offer, please call Ribby Hall Village on 0800 085 17 17 for more details. Prize Terms and conditions: The holiday can be taken any time before the end of December 2014 (excluding Winter Wonderland and New Year Breaks) and is subject to availability. Prize is not transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash, Ribby Hall Village may contact you directly by mail, email, text or phone with special offer information or new product updates. Your details will not be passed on to any third parties. Terms and conditions apply.
In the heart of the Lancas beautiful Ribby Hall Holid accommodation, restaura and an award winning Sp
urt Montrose Cot Derby,
Just a short distance aw Lytham St Annes and th to keep every age ente place to enjoy a holiday
Wes Baycliff Road, 6RR 2 L1 Liverpool,
Our fabulous cottages, just £280 for six people up to £60 off your holid
Rent from
per wee 5 0 8 £9
To book or request a broc 0800 085 17 17 or vis
k
ice charge) (including serv
during the week manager on site ➔ Professional call system nc hour emerge y ➔Access to a 24 m ste entry sy ➔Secure door vironment and respectful en ➔Safe, secure e rent th in ed lud dge inc ➔Cooker and fri
Move in...
g n i h t t s e b e h T ever did... I
…and rent a “Johnnie” Johnson Housing Trust property and you can feel safe, secure and sociable with peace of mind. It might be the best thing you ever did!
55+
& looking fo housing? r
Call us on: 0845 305 5335 | general.enquiries@jjhousing.co.uk 30
*Terms and conditions apply. £2 night break between 17 Nov – 1
“JOHNNIE” JOHNSON HOUSING TRUST (HEAD OFFICE) ASTRA HOUSE, SPINNERS LANE, POYNTON, CHESHIRE, SK12 1GA. AN EXEMPT CHARITY REGISTERED UNDER THE INDUSTRIAL AND PROVIDENT SOCIETIES ACT 1965 NO.19198R
www.jjhousing.co.uk
PROSTATE NEWS
As we get older, we have an increasing risk of prostate cancer. Researchers have shown that Lycopene (the red colour in tomatoes and one of nature’s most powerful antioxidants) is beneficial for those at risk as well as those who already have the disease. For example, the following studies all point towards positive benefits: Harvard Medical School, USA A study of 50,000 men showed a significant reduction in the incidence of prostate cancer for men on high (tomato) Lycopene diets. “Frequent consumption of tomato products is associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer.” Kings College Hospital, London A 12 month trial involving men with confirmed prostate cancer found that about 70% of those consuming Lycoplus, a dietary supplement containing Lycopene, benefited from a much reduced rate of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) increase or an actual reduction in their PSA. “Our clinical study lends weight to the probability that dietary supplementation with Lycopene [from Lycoplus] slows disease progression in men with prostate cancer.”
Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, USA Amongst a group of men with prostate cancer who were to have radical prostatectomy, some took a Lycopene supplement, some not. Following surgery it was found in the Lycopene group that more than two-thirds had the cancer confined to the prostate whereas in the other group more than half found the cancer had spread. Similarly, in the Lycopene group less than 20% had tumours larger than 4cc but in the other group the equivalent number was approximately 50%. “Lycopene as tomato extract may not only help prevent prostate cancer but also may be useful to treat prostate cancer.” Although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, it is known that Lycopene accumulates in the prostate gland. Many researchers think that Lycopene’s antioxidant properties help to protect the body’s DNA from damaging free radicals. Others believe that Lycopene improves cell-to-cell communication, reducing the risk of the uninhibited growth seen in cancer cells. In all likelihood, several mechanisms are at work simultaneously and there is much research currently being conducted across the globe to understand these interactions. In the meantime, many men are not waiting for full scientific explanations but are turning to Lycopene to reduce the risk of prostate disease. Humans possess no mechanism to make Lycopene; instead we accumulate it from our diet. Furthermore, natural Lycopene is hardly taken up at all from the consumption of raw tomatoes and only becomes “bioavailable” if the fruit is cooked and/or processed prior to eating. Consequently, supplements such as Lycoplus EXTRA are an increasingly attractive option.
Reactivating Lycopene with Vitamin C Every time a damaging free radical is removed by a Lycopene molecule, the antioxidant becomes “spent” – in essence, the Lycopene sacrifices itself to protect the body’s DNA. However, research has shown that the presence of plenty of vitamin C allows the “spent” Lycopene molecules to be reactivated, rejuvenating them and preparing them to quench another poisonous free radical. Thus, vitamin C is believed to prolong the antioxidising effects of Lycopene.
STOP PRESS Diet rich in tomatoes may lower breast cancer risk In work to be published in 2014 in the Journal of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Dr Adana Llanos from Rutgers University, USA shows that a tomato-rich diet could help to protect at-risk post-menopausal women from breast cancer because Lycopene affects the level of hormones that play a role in metabolism and cancer risk. The risk reduction was clear for older (50+) women after only 10 weeks of 25mg Lycopene per day – approximately 2 capsules of Lycoplus Extra daily.
Staying Informed George & Partners is committed to providing readable, up-to-date, scientifically robust information about lycopene research, particularly that related to prostate cancer, breast cancer, heart disease and skin health. To sign up for our free newsletter, please call 08000 234 235 or visit www.lycoplus.co.uk. Based at Keele University Science Park, George & Partners is the collective brainchild of three internationally renowned professors who have published more than 800 scientific papers over the last 30 years.
Natural Lycopene Supplement Each Lycoplus EXTRA one-a-day capsule contains 15mg of natural Lycopene plus 60mg of vitamin C which reactivates “spent” Lycopene, enhancing and prolonging the effect of the supplement. One box of 30 capsules (one month’s supply)
£17.95
Save £5
2 boxes for
£30.90
Save £16
4 boxes for
£55.80
All prices include free UK postage & packing
To order call Freephone 08000 234 235 or visit www.lycoplus.co.uk
George & Partners Limited, Keele University Science Park, Staffordshire ST5 5NL www.50plusmagazine.co.uk
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NO WORRIES!
STRUGGLE TO GET IN & OUT OF YOUR OLD BATH? Designed to fit in the same space as your old bath, the Shower Module’s unique construction enables it to be FITTED IN JUST ONE DAY* with NO MESS, NO FUSS and NO RE-TILING either!
Bath out - Shower in
FITTED IN JUST ONE DAY!* NO MESS! NO FUSS! NO RE-TILING!
● ● ● ● ● ●
Fits in same space as your old bath! GLASS PROTECTION
Protects against the build-up of grime, lime scale and stains.
Easy clean tile effect - no re-tiling or mouldy grout! Easy access NEW lower step Optional seat and grab rail Assistance pole Slip resistant floor Built-in shelving
OVER 20,000
INSTALLATIONS IN THE UK Available with full height sliding doors or half height hinged door and panel
Half height hinged door and panel option
SHOWER STANDING UP OR SITTING DOWN WITH THE OPTIONAL FOLD DOWN SEAT. * Time based on straightforward fitting.
FOR MORE DETAILS AND FREE BROCHURE
FREEPHONE 0800 316 0110
Ask for Ext. 53456
Please contact me to arrange a FREE no-obligation Home Survey Please send me a FREE brochure on the Aquability Low Access Shower Module
53456
Name Tel Address
EASY, SAFE BATHING
Postcode Lines open 24 hours 7 days a week. Or return coupon to FREEPOST RRGY-AHAX-AHSX, Aquability UK Ltd, Farnborough, GU14 0NR. Or visit - www.aquability.com Send to: FREEPOST RRGY-AHAX-AHSX, Aquability UK Ltd, Farnborough, GU14 0NR.
802_50Plus_half-page_Jan14
looking to celebrate that special anniversary? ring your favourite restaurant
looking to sort out that pension problem? ring the ombudsman 0300 123 9 123 32
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Sefton New Directions employs over 300 dedicated, enthusiastic and caring staff working across a wide range of services, meeting the needs of several thousand people across Sefton Borough and beyond. We are key partners to a number of Commissioners. New Directions staff support people to get the best out of life; our record of exemplary service is reflected by the Care Quality Commission in their inspection reports which can be viewed at www.cqc.org.uk. Our commitment to providing personalised services means that we deliver care where and when it’s needed – and we work with
commissioners to transform and improve services to ensure that we continue to provide the support that people want. Our plans for our future focus on creating further life enriching opportunities for people including, for example, meeting vocational and employment needs through appropriate training and dedicated support.
What satisfied customers have to say about their Sefton New Directions experiences: “I would like to thank all the carers who’ve been so kind to me I think you are invaluable and I’m very grateful to you all.” “I can leave my son… knowing he is well looked after. I have total respect and a very high regard for the members of staff.” “Thank you to each and every one of you….. you truly made a difference”
Please contact us if you want to know more about our services for people aged 18 and over who have a variety of needs due to age related conditions, learning disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental health diagnosis and physical disabilities.
For more information call 0151 934 3726 Info-nd@ndirections.co.uk | www.ndirections.co.uk
Your Local Community Meals Provider and Care in the Community. Healthy eating is essential for everyone. ICare can provide a nutritious, satisfying meal and sweet to be had at home. We can also offer meals for special dietary needs also cultural and religious requirements. We are trying to contact people within the Community that may need our services and are offering a FREE complimentary meal and sweet, to either an individual or group of people. ICare offer a 7 day a week, lunch time Hot Meal delivery service or a weekly Frozen delivery service.
Making our care go further... Our ‘ICare Plus’ service includes a 15 minute stay where a Well-being and Safety check will be carried out if needed. We also provide a Home Shopping service. Our Community Assistants are helpful polite and punctual and undergo a rigorous selection process, where by they are trained and assessed in adult care awareness, police checked and DBS cleared before they can deliver to you.
TRY A MEAL & DESSERT
ABSOLUTELY FREE
For more information please contact Karen Lobb on 0161 7973416 or 07891607636 or email karen.lobb@icaregroup.co.uk
JUST CONTACT US AND QUOTE ‘50PLUS’ AND WE’LL DO THE REST...
community meals
Qu
a lit y
se r v i c e b y p
re... a c who e l e op
Would you like a hot meal delivered to your home or do you have a friend or relative who would enjoy a hot lunch? Or have our delicious meals and desserts delivered straight into your freezer by one of our DBS checked care-aware community assistants.
JUST £5.10 FOR A HOT MEAL & DESSERT
JUST £3.75 FOR A FROZEN MEAL & DESSERT
Give our friendly Customer Service a call on 0151 644 1715
Visit our websites at www.icarecuisine.co.uk or www.icaregroup.co.uk
Personal attention and service guaranteed Is old age getting the better of you or a loved one? Do you want assistance from experienced professionals? Then look no further than Castletown Homecare.Your mobility matters to them and they can help! Founded over 18 years ago, the business based in Southport twon centre has gone from strength to strength. Castletown are specialists in the mobility industry and offer a second to none advice/ supply service for a whole range of mobility and nursing equipment. Their services include sales and delivery of mobility and continence products, from a ÂŁ1.50 walking stick tip to a ÂŁ2000 scooter, rentals of wheelchairs / high seat chairs / walking equipment are available, free home demonstrations, free at home trial periods. Free professional advice and home visits. Castletown will endeavour to deliver your item on the same day with no delivery charge. Their staff offer a confidential continence advisory service and have over 35 years experience in the healthcare industry. Owned and managed by Caroline Rodwell, Castletown Homecare offers the customer a personal caring service that bigger stores and catalogues can't offer. Caroline said "Our customers are going to get personal attention, they are going to get experienced advice and all our products are competitively priced. We are also starting to offer some homecare services to our regular customers who need a little help with the shopping and daily chores"
Castletown Homecare really is Southport’s leader when it comes to personal service and experienced advice to help you with your independence! Quality Customer Service Experienced Friendly Advice Free Home Demo/ Trial Full Warranty
We stock a wide range of:
Scooters Wheelchairs Rise/Recline Chairs Stairlifts Bathlifters Adjustable Beds Daily Living Aids Healthcare Products
15 Union Street, Southport PR9 0QF Tel: 01704 532567 www.castletownhomecare.co.uk
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LMH Sheltered Housing Liverpool Mutual Homes provides sheltered retirement accommodation for residents aged 55 years or over in each of our 17 purpose built schemes located across Liverpool. Our schemes benefit from extensive mature gardens, quality fixtures and fittings and have an ongoing programme of fitting new level access bathroom facilities and modern designer kitchens in progress. If you think that LMH Sheltered Housing could be for you, why not pay us a visit and see the services and facilities we offer? To make arrangements please call any of the schemes listed. Further information is available online at www.liverpoolmutualhomes.org
Scheme Name Alderwood Lodge
Address
Telephone
2 East Mains, Speke L24
0151 425 4562
Appledore Court
Dymchurch Road, Speke L24
0151 486 8460
Carnarvon Court
Carnarvon Road, Walton L9
0151 521 3236
Devon Court
Tynmouth Close, Anfield L5
0151 260 4348
Dingle Grange
Dingle Brow, Beloe Street L8
0151 727 3885
Flaxman Court
Botanic Grove, Edge Lane L7
0151 264 9783
Handel Court
Lodge Lane, Liverpool L8
0151 727 8302
Kilrea Lodge
Kilrea Close, West Derby L11
0151 256 6277
Mazenod Court
Addison Way, Holy Cross L3
0151 236 1887
Meadow Court
Out Lane, Woolton L25
0151 428 5393
Parkhill Court
Parkhill Road, Liverpool L8
0151 727 5204
Pine Lodge
Crain Close, Walton L4
0151 260 4144
Portland Gardens
Walsh Close, Vauxhall L5
0151 207 3590
Shallcross Court
Breckfield Rd South, Liverpool L6
0151 263 5965
Telford Court
Harbord Street, Liverpool L7
0151 708 9601
Thomas Winder Court
Great Mersey Street, Liverpool L5
0151 207 6838
White Oak Lodge
Beechwood Road, Liverpool L19
0151 427 9158
Asmall Hall Care Home
“Excellence Comes as Standard”
Providing Short Term or Long Term Care for adults including Day Care. Our 17th Century, prestigious building set in 5 acres of gardens and, opened as a care home more than 20 years ago. Whilst retaining its many original homely features and comforts, we have adapted to provide a luxury, caring facility. Situated within 2 miles of Ormskirk centre, only half a mile from the bus stop makes us within reach of many other community activities by mini-bus or taxi. Inspection invited without obligation where some of our devoted staff have worked at the home since its opening in 1991. We at Asmall Hall pride ourselves in the delivery of high quality, Person Centered Care by providing regular training and supervision for our staff as we aim to maintain and continually improve our services for your benefit.
A Quality Service is the only acceptable one! Proprietors and Managers are Mrs. Jennifer and Mr. Allen Chapman with Unit Manager Mrs. Tracey Farrington. To achieve and enhance our high standards of care on a continual basis, we are working towards the National ‘Gold Standard Framework’ for end of life care. 38
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• Open Visiting • On Site Chapel/Prayer Room • Own Minibus for use of regular outings • Full social calendar (by our activities co-ordinators) • Own Hairdresser Asmall Hall prides itself in offering home cooked food wherever possible and choice of menu is available including special medical diets as medically prescribed and the majority of bedrooms are single although we also offer 3 double rooms, if this is desired. Short term care is available if someone is recovering folloing surgery or hospital stay and requires that extra support in the time whilst they recover enough to live independently again at home. Registered and caring for both male and female clients we offer a relaxed but staff competent environment including Qualified Nurses on duty for each 24 hour period with the majority of Care Staff having N.V.Q. qualifications or equivalent. Registered and inspected regularly for the Quality Standard BS EN ISO 9001:2002, Asmall Hall Management are continually looking to improve the delivery of care standards to ‘Best Practice’ levels.
Tel: 01695 579548
Asmall Hall Care Home, Asmall Lane, Scarisbrick, Ormskirk, Lancashire L40 8JL. www.asmallhallcarehome.co.uk www.50plusmagazine.co.ukFax: 01695 579978 email: asmallmatron@aol.com QUALITY GUILD
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