Reading issue 43

NOVEMBER - JANUARY 2018

READING BRACKNELL WOKINGHAM MAIDENHEAD & WINDSOR EDITION 43

John Bishop THE CHEERY SCOUSER GOES ON TOUR

Indian Cooking

ANJUM ANAND'S DELICIOUS RECIPES

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ASK THE CONSULTANT: FOOTBALL INJURIES Sometimes repeated minor trauma leads to “impingement” in the ankle joint, where a small piece of bone or scar tissue catches painfully as the joint moves. Other common football foot and ankle injuries include metatarsal fractures and big toe joint injuries. How can they prevent injury?

Mr Callum Clark is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in foot and ankle problems. Mr Clark runs The Windsor Foot & Ankle Clinic at BMI The Princess Margaret Hospital, along with Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr Raman Dega. The Windsor Foot & Ankle Clinic provides services for the assessment and treatment of all problems associated with the foot and ankle, from skin and nail care through to orthopaedic surgery, physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Mr Clark has ongoing interests in research and education and is an elected member of the Education Committee of the British Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society as well as Musculoskeletal Research Lead for Heatherwood and Wexham Park Hospitals, Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust. He lives in Ascot with his wife and three children and is a supporter of Liverpool Football Club.

As with all sports, appropriate training and warm-up drills are protective against muscle and tendon injuries in particular. Ankle strength is helped by balancing type or “proprioceptive” exercises, which help prevent accidental inversion of the ankle during play. The most important thing is to avoid reinjury from rushing back into play when not fully recovered. What should an athlete do when they first notice a niggle or pain? Most niggles can be successfully assessed and treated by a physiotherapist or other sports therapist, but ongoing or repeated problems should prompt a referral to a specialist.

What treatment or therapy would be beneficial in their recovery? When an ankle problem doesn’t respond to rehabilitation techniques, then assessment with an MRI scan and a consultation with a specialist is often the next appropriate step. The treatment of these problems depends entirely on the type of injury and may involve simply more rehabilitation or targeted ankle injection, but sometimes arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery or ligament repair are necessary to achieve return to sport. When should they seek advice? The vast majority of ankle sprains recover with rehabilitation within 6 weeks of injury, so if they have still not recovered by this stage or are suffering repeated injuries, I would suggest seeking referral to a specialist.

For more information, please call 0800 533 5087

What are the most common injuries you see in footballers? The most common injury I see is the ankle “inversion” injury - the sprained ankle. The vast majority recover fully with simple rehabilitation measures, but some remain painful and swollen. Occasionally the ankle remains unstable, leading to repeated sprains and significant loss of playing time as a result.

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ORTHOPAEDICS

WOULD YOU LIKE TO GET BACK TO WHAT YOU LOVE BEST? Are you or your loved one suffering with a sporting injury, joint or back pain? Or do you just need some help to get back to fitness? You don’t have to wait in pain. At BMI The Princess Margaret Hospital we offer fast access to diagnosis and treatment. With rapid on site investigation, experienced physiotherapists and specialist orthopaedic consultants we are here to help get you active again. We work with all major insurance companies and have fixed price packages for patients wishing to pay for their own treatment.

To find out more call 0800 533 5087

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TWITTER

inside

Twittering on With Angela Kelly The battle of the sexes 2017

while the men’s toilets’ signs just show a man with a tie. The great thing is

I THOUGHT we’d moved on in the

that they do have baby changing

battle of the sexes into an uneasy

facilities in some men’s toilets.

peace but these days it doesn’t feel like it.

Now, the giant store has bowed to social media pressure over the subject

JOHN BISHOP NEW TOUR PAGES 8-9

It only seems like a short time ago that

when it was criticised for implying that

the whole issue was so debated that

women are the only parents looking

we never thought we would have to

after children. The signs on both

go to war again to get female equality.

toilets will now also show a child.

Yet, here we are, in 2017, and still some men are paid more than women

Interestingly, before the turnaround,

in broadly similar jobs and there are

M & S said that some people “walk

still skirmishes around everything from

around wondering what to get

shoes to toilets relating to gender

offended at”, and you do wonder

equality.

sometimes if they don’t have a point with this.

TRAVEL...

SANTORINI AND CRETE - SLICES OF GREEK ISLAND PARADISE PAGES 6-7

Tesco is the latest organisation to be accused of sexism for selling girls’

These days, we are much more open

school shoes with “sensitive soles”

to the equal nature of boys and girls

while boasting about its boys’ shoes

in particular and try to treat them

being tough enough to last in the

flexibly. Girls don’t have to play with

playground.

dolls and boys don’t have to play with fire engines. Fortunately, children have

HOME...

SIMPLE WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR HOME PAGES 14-16

We do seem to have become sensitive

a way of finding the middle ground

souls ourselves over this, though. All

themselves and don’t need to rely on

right – it isn’t in the spirit of equality to

over-sensitive parents.

create different types of shoes. What about boisterous girls and shy, retiring boys? But is it really worth a fuss?

Buckingham Palace – a saga of royal folk

Tesco have taken the diplomatic route and promised to update the wording

Soaps may come and go but there is

on their website about the properties

one enduring “soap” saga that keeps

of the school shoes. No word yet from

on giving: the Royal Family.

the children. The 20th anniversary of the death of

INDIAN COOKING ANJUM ANAND'S DELICIOUS RECIPES PAGES 24-27

Probably more sensible is Marks &

Princess Diana this year has prompted

Spencer being forced to change its

plenty of articles and photos across

toilet signs because the pink female

the media, especially information

signs show a woman with a baby

culled from her diaries. This shows

(denoting baby changing facilities)

the depth of her despair over Prince

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Charles’ continuing relationship with the then Camilla

large rubber band and a pair of incontinence knickers

Parker Bowles and the rest of the family’s response, or

makes me want to leap onto the sofa with a mug of tea

otherwise, to it.

and a large bar of Cadbury’s Wholenut and hide from the world.

It comes as the Queen, now 91, appears to be making plans for Charles to succeed her with Camilla, now

There are a few things I’d vaguely like to do before

his wife, by his side. It can’t be an easy time all round,

I shuffle off into the after-life. I’d quite like to make

especially for Prince William and Prince Harry.

a successful meringue or go for a tour around a film studio. I might enjoy being in the audience for The

Over the years, there have been plenty of widely-

Jeremy Kyle Show although I wouldn’t want to be too

publicised scandals concerning the Royal Family and,

close to anyone who’d failed their lie detector test

whatever your individual views on the monarchy, it’s hard

unexpectedly in case they turned a bit nasty.

not to be fascinated. The huge leaps in communication technology now mean that little stays secret for long and

My husband once described me as “timid” to which I

that photos of any indiscretion of any kind are swiftly

took some exception. Not great exception, of course,

passed around the world.

because that would be a bit extreme. I’m not an extreme person. I don’t hanker after mad rushes of adrenalin from

This is the key, of course. The scandal with American

life or want to suddenly jet off abroad on an adventure.

socialite Wallis Simpson and King Edward VII led to his abdication in 1936 but, if we’d had the internet then,

As for ultimately “kicking the bucket”. Well, that sounds

we’d have known about her rather eventful life in full

a bit violent to me, too. I suspect that when the final call

detail.

comes, I’ll just push over that particular bucket until the life runs out of it. Then on my gravestone they might inscribe

As it is, we can now watch footage of the royals in action

the words “Born To Be Mild”. That seems about right.

and scrutinise it carefully and hear about every dalliance or utterance more or less just after it’s happened. Fortunately, the Royal Family is full of interesting characters who continue to provide us with total fascination. In fact, we can’t wait for the next episode!

Have you got a bucket list? You know, things you plan to

“I no longer dread having to climb the stairs.”

do before you die? Increasingly these days, people have

Mr. Rowe, Nottingham

Living beyond my mildest expectations

a bucket list like visiting all seven continents, sky-diving from 12,000 feet up, scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef or going to all the Harry Potter locations. Me? No chance. Why on earth would I want to do terrifying things like running with bulls or swimming with sharks? I get vertigo on a high pavement and at times of stress I yearn for the quiet solace of the frozen vegs section at Asda.My idea of a heart-pounding experience is when Pinot Grigio is on BOGOF. But I am completely in awe of those who take trapeze classes or enjoy bungee jumping in New Zealand.

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Just the idea of flinging myself from a high platform

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Mermaid Inn, Rye

Santorini and Crete – slices of Greek island paradise Santorini Silver Travel Advisor writer, David Graham, tells us why it’s one of his favourite places. Cliche time, but there’s one Greek holiday island that really deserves its place on any ‘must see’ list before you take the final trip no traveller ever returns from. No surprise to be told that it’s Santorini, which stakes a firm claim to being the inspiration for the mythical paradise of Atlantis and still manages to cast a spell on everyone lucky enough to go there. The approach is simply stunning, especially by sea, as you sail in under the towering, multi-coloured cliffs, with the picture-postcard clusters of gleaming white houses and bluedomed churches icing the top at the capital, Fira, and picturesque Oia. Once ashore, the first thing that strikes you about the beaches is that the sand is black. Or sometimes white. Or even red – but mainly black, for mile after unspoiled mile. It becomes even more bizarre the more you look at what you’re walking on – and realise you’re visiting one of the most amazing places on the planet – the remains of a volcano that erupted around 1,500BC.

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Visitors are astounded by wind-carved rocks which look like a Star Trek set, cave houses dug into hillsides all over the island, and cliffs sculpted into shapes which would be impressive in the Tate Modern. That said, there are vineyards too which produce very drinkable wines, offered in settings just perfect for the most romantic of Santorini sunsets. There are trendy new establishments on the island, although it’s not too hard to find a traditional taverna, where the

whole family is involved in cooking and serving exceptional local dishes. Akrotiri on the south coast is a good spot for such an experience. Perissa and Perivolos are also here and cater very much for the tourist market, which might not be for everyone’s taste, but are certainly worth a look. We stayed in Kamari, just around the huge, high headland which is the site of the island’s ancient capital – a five-minute trip by handy water taxi from Perissa, or a scenic drive by car,

TRAVEL Ancient Treasures The serene charms of Crete and Santorini provide the perfect setting for an archaeological odyssey into the deep-rooted antiquity of European culture. Meet the Minoans, Europe’s earliest civilisation. This creative, prosperous society, named after the legendary King Minos, was the forerunner to Classical Greece and has been shrouded in an aura of mystery and mythology ever since. Here was the birth of Zeus, the seduction of Europa, the labyrinth of the Minotaur and the fabled city of Atlantis.

via Emporio and back to Pyrgos, gateway to the rest of the island. It is a bustling resort in summer and also an established little town with family life at its heart, where locals live all year round. Excellent for the more authentic Greek holiday. If you love the high life, you can also discover that luxury hideaways in Fira, its upmarket neighbour Imerovigli, or sunset spot Oia. Spoiling yourself in such a stunning place is easy to do!

Crete Silver Travel Advisor’s Jennie Carr visited Crete, where she was thrilled by the peace and quiet to be found on the western side of the island, with weather still perfect in October. Heading up into the White Mountains, there are villages which step out of previous centuries, and a languor in the air which induces relaxation within seconds. Although the roads and switchbacks here do require a wide-awake driver, with an inclination to rallying! We happened upon a Byzantine church, open every other Tuesday afternoon, with original icons, and several tiny cave chapels that seemed to have grown from the ground. One of the great games in Crete is spelling because place names need to be translated from the Greek alphabet into Roman letters. What is seen on a road map may not reflect, by quite a few letters, what is seen on the actual road sign. And given that some road signs have suffered the odd bullet scar due to historic feuding, finding where you want to go can be a cross between orienteering and good guesswork. We loved it! Back on the more popular coast, the city of Chania has everything you’d expect from a former capital: Venetian harbour and lighthouse, a well-stocked produce market and restaurants ranging from Italian to tiny tavernas literally in archways. There’s a strong cultural life too, the English National Ballet were due to visit. Rethymnon charmed us – cobbled streets, wooden doorways aplenty and a flock of black-coated Orthodox priests popping up on every square. The Fortezza here is impressive, with Venetian origin and Ottoman overtones including a masque within the fortress walls. For a relaxing beach afternoon we sampled Kalives, good sand and a warm sea – wonderful in the warm October sun. What could be better?

Get off the beaten track to where myth and reality converge in one of the Mediterranean’s most significant and sought after destinations. There is a fascinating array of archaeological sites to explore, including the palaces of Knossos and Phaistos, and a wealth of artistic treasures to see in the island’s museums, including superb frescoes, snake goddesses and golden-horned bulls. More details from Hidden History Travel. CONTACT -Simpson Travel offer villas and hotels on Crete www.simpsontravel.com Telephone 020 3393 0610 -Sunvil offer wonderful holidays on Santorini. www.sunvil.co.uk Telephone 020 8758 4758 For archaeological discoveries in Greece, Hidden History Travel offer super escorted tours. www.hiddenhistory.co.uk Telephone 0121 444 1854

ARCHAEOLOGY & TRAVEL Perfect Combinations of Leisure and Interest • Minoan Crete & Santorini • Cyprus: North & South • Pompeii & Campania • Malta's Millennia • Ancient Greece • And More...

• Informed Travel • Beautiful Locations • Bespoke Itineraries • Expert Guides • Local Airports

RESERVE YOUR PLACE www.hiddenhistory.co.uk enquiries@hiddenhistory.co.uk tel: (UK) 0121 444 1854

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John Bishop The Cheery Scouser IF you ever needed an example of a cheery Scouser it’s a pretty safe bet that comedian John Bishop would come to mind. He is 50 now but with the boyish looks and toothy grin that he’s probably always had and, judging by his three sons, has passed this particular gene pool on to the next generation.

He still enjoys playing when he can and is an avid fan of Liverpool FC.

Analysing what makes so many people from Liverpool good comedians, it’s been said that it’s a defence against the wind whistling through the Mersey Tunnel or off the Irish Sea. Whatever the reason, it’s certainly all around this bustling city – in the pubs and clubs, the streets and football grounds.

He didn’t start performing stand-up comedy in clubs around the North-west, though, until he was 34. In front of the tough club audiences, he honed his act and people began to enjoy colourful tales about his life and family told in his engaging conversational way.

And the latter could well be where John Bishop’s humour was honed. He was always a keen footballer and played for non-league teams Hyde and Southport.

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Brought up in Huyton on Merseyside and in Winsford and Runcorn in Cheshire, John worked as a pharmaceutical rep. Plainly, however, he always had that dry Scouse humour.

His first appearance was in Manchester and the following year he made it to the final of major new act competitions including So You Think You’re Funny, the Daily Telegraph Open Mic Awards,

the BBC New Comedy Awards and the City Life North West Comedian of the Year Award – which he won. His first TV appearance was on RTE topical comedy show The Panel and he went on to the popular Channel 4 show 8 Out of 10 Cats. What really elevated him in the public consciousness and boosted his career, though, was an appearance on BBC’s Live at the Apollo comedy series when national audiences really began to warm to the likely lad from Liverpool. Unlike many comedians, John Bishop is also a talented writer, presenter and actor. In 2009, he started his own TV show on LFC TV called John Bishop Meets …. where he interviewed former Liverpool footballers.

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW In 2010, he was a celebrity team captain on What Do Kids Know? on Watch TV and also appeared on BBC’s Mock the Week and Radio 4’s Act Your Age. Revealing his acting talents for the first time, he appeared in two series of Skins and in 2010 was in Ken Loach’s film Route Irish, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. Quick-witted John has appeared as a regular panellist on Sky 1’s A League of Their Own and been a panellist on BBC’s Have I Got News For You. He also wrote and presented the BBC One series John Bishop’s Britain. Since he first broke through into the professional comedy field, John has seldom been off TV screens or radio prorammes. He’s been on Desert Island Discs, appeared in genealogy series Who Do You Think You Are? and has been the presenter of choice for various one-off programmes.

Although he has notched up plenty of major successes and showcased his talents in a variety of ways, John Bishop remains grounded. And he is keen to keep his family grounded, too. He recently revealed to The Mirror his advice to his sons: “When you grow up, try to be a good man. “I don’t want them thinking money is more important than people. I hate the idea that ambition needs to be more important than reality. You can end up at the top of the tree and be on your own. I don’t think that’s worth it.” And with that philosophy, it’s clear that John Bishop, his warm personality and his pleasantly cheesy grin, will be around for a very long time.

His easily identifiable thick Scouse accent lends itself to voiceovers but he is actually a multi-talented man with a modest streak and had his own autobiography How Did All This Happen? published in 2013. He hosted the Royal Variety Performance that same year and in 2014 appeared in A Night In with Olly Murs. In 2015, he presented his own variety show on BBC One called The John Bishop Show. Early last year, he took part in the BBC series Stargazing Live, from the European Astronaut Centre, following Tim Peake’s astronaut training programme – right down to a simulated spacewalk underwater. Last year, he also started the notoriously difficult task of presenting his own chat show on W, formerly Watch TV, John Bishop: In Conversation With …. Here, he showed his likeability and easygoing chatty style with James Corden, Charlotte Church and Lenny Henry. The second series, which started in March this year, featured Lindsay Lohan, Russell Brand, Louise Redknapp and Jason Manford among the guests. This year, he also surprised TV viewers by appearing in the suspense drama Fearless where he offered an absorbing professional acting performance. He is currently on a warm-up tour for his Winging It tour which takes place later in the year and which has shows from Brighton to Belfast and many places in between - no doubt pleasing his many fans around the country.

* For more details about John Bishop’s 2017 touring go to www.johnbishoponline.com/ WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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HEALTH

HOW TO RETIRE HEALTHILY

By Dr Riccardo Di Cuffa, Director and GP at Your Doctor www.your-doctor.co.uk

flooring like worn carpet, avoiding leaving items in entrances, hallways or on the stairs, and if needed consider fitting support bars in bathrooms.

At any stage of life, it is important to keep healthy and happy. Drinking water, eating well, regular exercise and getting plenty of rest is usually the key to sustaining the best possible lifestyle. This becomes more apparent as we age. Here are ways to help you retire healthily: Reduce stress to reduce the possible risk of Alzheimer’s. In the UK, one in 14 people over the age of 65 are estimated to be at risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have shown those affected by chronic stress in mid-life are more likely to develop the illness, due to the degenerative effect stress has on the brain. It is believed to be a result of increased inflammatory processes. During retirement, have a financial plan to help stop money troubles and reduce stress. Budgeting for essentials and being careful with luxury and lifestyle purchases can ease the transition from working to retiring. Reduce your risk of retiring with Diabetes. It is estimated that five

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million people in the UK have diabetes, 85% of whom are recognised as obese. Start today by controlling what you eat and drink. There are hidden calories in sugary drinks and cutting down on alcohol reduces your chances of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Get your five-a-day fruit and vegetables to limit the impact dementia has. Quit smoking to prevent having a stroke. It has been found that smoking single-handedly doubles your chances of having a stoke – 52% of those affected by stroke in the UK last year were active smokers. A happy retirement is a healthy one; consider quitting smoking to stop the thickening of blood and clogging of arteries. Speak to your GP for the safest way to quit. Safeguard your home to limit accidents. As we age, we tend to spend more time at home. Keep yourself safe from falls by maintaining

Manage your weight to slim down the chance of developing cardiovascular disease. Heart failure is a common cause of death across Europe (and leads to irregular heart rhythms and heart attacks) and excess weight is a major risk factor, as the heart has to work harder. As we age, less calories are needed so try to cut back on foods high in saturated fats or sugars. Tackle loneliness and social isolation. Addressing the problem of isolation can be a big step towards a happy retirement. If you fear losing friends and lack social interaction – actively keep in touch with loved ones. Join local groups such as coffee mornings, voluntary work or even dance lessons! Learn a new skill to slow memory loss. Retiring brings the blessing of more free time so now could be the time to learn a new skill like cooking, starting a DIY project or learning how to play an instrument. Keeping your brain busy can help maintain and even improve memory.

Include loved ones in your retirement plan. Be it your partners children, friends or family members – it is important to keep close ones in the loop. Set a retirement plan as a household, rather than an individual. See exercise as fun. Being physically active cuts your chances of cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest happens when your heart stops pumping blood around the body. Try making exercise something you look forward to rather than a chore. Working out with a friend or with your favourite music can help motivate. Fit for life is a multi-activity programme which takes place at Bracknell Leisure Centre and offers a wide variety of fun sports and exercise sessions. These sessions are the perfect way to meet new people and socialise as well as to get fit and keep active.

f as part o d e d lu c ip! Now in embersh m m u in t our pla

Fit for Life “My instructor asked how flexible I was... I said I can’t make Tuesday or Thursday”

It’s no wonder they call this over 50’s programme “Fit for Life”, some customers have been going every week since 1974! Many also manage to squeeze in a coffee and a cake between activities (but don’t tell the fitness instructors that!). Fit for Life sessions run Monday – Friday throughout the year (except bank holidays) with a range of activities on each day (timetable below), all for one great low price. It’s even better if you’re a Platinum Member as it’s now included as part of the package!

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Badminton Forest Spa Keep Fit Raquetball Short Mat Bowls

Price Adult Over 64’s

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Zumba/Dance Squash Swimming Table Tennis Yoga

Member £4.60 £3.20

Non-Member £6.70 £4.70

Various activities each day. Price entitles you to participate in as many activities as you wish on the same day. Bracknell Leisure Centre Bagshot Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 9SE Tel: 01344

454203

Email: blc.enquiries@bracknell-forest.gov.uk www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/bracknellleisurecentre

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HEALTH Coral Reef Waterworld has everything to help you get fit, tone up or entertain the grandchildren Coral Reef Waterworld is a free form leisure pool. It is kept at a temperature of 29°C to 31°C and it's depth ranges from 0.15m to 1.35m. At Coral Reef Waterworld, you can enjoy: • the thrill of our new iconic giant waterslides • the Little Corals Toddlers' Pools, designed for the under 5s, which includes a large yellow diving bell and drench buckets, 2 small slides and water troughs • access to the Coralina pirate ship to fire water cannons and ride its slide • an erupting volcano • fast flowing water around our disco island rapid channel • the Lazy River, enjoying the outdoor sun, available weekends and throughout the holiday periods • relaxing poolside spa pools • access to the Beach Hut for food and refreshments whilst you swim Aqua aerobics is an effective pool based workout class for adults (16+) in a fun social environment with sessions being delivered by qualified instructors on the poolside.

Classes take place on Thursdays during term time from 9:30am to 10:15am. In holiday periods, the class runs from 8:45am to 9:30am. The price is £5.50 and booking is not necessary – just turn up on the day. Coral Gym is an air-conditioned facility with a good range of weights and equipment, providing an all over cardio vascular and weight training workout. Or for something a bit more relaxing indulge yourself in the ultimate body experience Coral Spa offers: • 2 saunas, the Finnish and the tropical, with variable temperatures • a Paradise Saunarium - similar to a sauna but humid with mood lighting and relaxing eucalyptus essence vapour • circular Japanese steam room with 2 tiers of seating • sunken foot spa with gentle air bubbles and needle jet massages • 8-seater spa pool to help further massage and relax your muscles and unwind the mind • a cool pool to help close your pores and cool you down • showers • 2 heated sun loungers and lounging areas to catch up on the daily papers • free teas and coffees available

No longer will you be left plodding up and down, getting bored and not seeing the results you want.

Coral Reef Waterworld NOW OPEN a new adventure...

Coral Reef, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 7JQ Tel: 01344 862525 email: coral.reef@bracknell-forest.gov.uk www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/coralreef

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Bracknell Forest Libraries Bracknell Forest libraries have something to offer everyone including traditional books and computers to online resources and WiFi alongside a variety of events and clubs. Bracknell Library in particular, with the Lexicon close by, is seeing an increase in visitors. Next door to Fenwick why not pop in next time you are shopping and see what we have to offer? Recent events include Flamenca Magica and a craft fair with many others planned. Further afield we have Christmas events at Sandhurst and Santa’s Grotto in Crowthorne who take part in the annual late night shopping.

Those who are looking for a more relaxed pursuit after the Christmas rush may be interested in the Tai Chi, meditation and yoga sessions. Our libraries appeal to those of all ages, with rhyme times, code clubs and Lego clubs , through to knitting, craft, reading and language clubs for adults. Some of our libraries hold IT help sessions, job clubs and chess clubs. Specialist one off events are frequent and can be seen on the website at www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/libraries or on our Facebook page. Many of our clubs rely on volunteer help. Volunteering opportunities are available in all of our libraries often increasing the hours the libraries are open. If this interests you please see what is available at www.bracknell-forest. gov.uk/libraries/volunteer-your-library.

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rticular, with the Bracknell Lexicon close by,inisparticular, with the Lexicon close by, is Library isitors. Next door to Fenwick why not seeing an increase in visitors. Next door toto Fenwick not Events coverwhy all interests re shopping andpop see in what have toare shopping and see what we have to nextwe time you and age groups offer? Flamenca Magica and aevents craft fair Recent include Flamenca Magica craft public fair Free and wifia and pcs ned. Further afield wemany have others Christmas with planned. Further afield we have Christmas in all branches nd Santa’s Grottoevents in Crowthorne who and Santa’s Grotto in Crowthorne who at Sandhurst late night shopping. take part in the annual late night shopping. Job Club (Bracknell) those of all ages, with rhymeappeal times for Our libraries to those of all ages, with for and IT rhyme Help times Sessions s and Lego clubs for those school under two’s,ofcode clubs and Lego clubs for those of school g, craft, reading age, and language for craft, reading and language clubs for through toclubs knitting, rooms for hire raries hold IT help sessions, clubs adults. Somejob of our libraries hold IT Meeting help sessions, job clubs ialist one off events theclubs. hugely and like chess Specialist one off events like the hugely s for the Blind event at Crowthorne are for the Blind event at Crowthorne are successful Guide Dogs een on the website at www.bracknellfrequent and can be seen on the website at www.bracknellpage or on our Facebook forest.gov.uk/libraries or on our Facebook page on volunteer help. Volunteering Many of our clubs rely on volunteer help. Volunteering able in all of our opportunities libraries oftenare available in all of our libraries often e libraries are open. If this the mayhours the libraries are open. If this may increasing e what is available at present at www. interest you please see what is available at present at www. /libraries/volunteer-your-library bracknell-forest.gov.uk/libraries/volunteer-your-library eing you shortly whether is to use We look it forward to seeing you shortly whether it is to use eet new friends. specific facilities or meet new friends.

Events to cover all interests Events to cover all interests and age groups

Free wifi and public pcs in all branches

and age groups

Free wifi and public pcs in all branches

Job Club (Bracknell) and IT help sessionsJob Club (Bracknell) Meeting rooms for hire

and IT Help Sessions

Meeting rooms for hire

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HOME think about whether they will suit their purpose and fit in with their lifestyle." “You wouldn’t buy a cream carpet if you had four children, two dogs and lived on a farm, or a large corner sofa and lived in a tiny high-rise apartment, would you?” Another mistake is painting a wall in a colour you have seen in a magazine or on TV “and realising it looks totally different in your own home and doesn’t work with the lighting or wall texture.” Vicky also warns against taking on complex DIY projects, thinking that you’re an expert. “If you see something like creating shelves on TV, Facebook or Pinterest and then just go ahead and try it, it may well not work out,” she states. “Leave it to the professionals.”

Simple ways to update your home WHEN it comes to updating your home and changing the décor and furnishings we tend to view it as stepping into a major minefield.

and décor. “One of the most common is not measuring items of furniture, TVs, beds and especially sofas,” she states. “People also buy for how these items look and if they’re on trend and don’t

How can we alter our rooms without spending a fortune? What are the latest design trends and will they be suitable for our house or apartment? How can I really bring a fresh look to rooms easily and without major disruption?

In a small hall, try to avoid cluttering it up with too much furniture. Go for wall hooks rather than a hallstand and a built-in cupboard for shoes and wellies rather than a freestanding one. Ditch old carpets and choose something fresh and practical like a wood or smart vinyl flooring. You’ll be surprised at the designs and colours available in the latest floor coverings so it’s worth consulting a local flooring expert.

“Don’t panic!” is the advice from interior design consultant Vicky Callan. She regularly deals with people revamping rooms – and sometimes fixing mistakes they have made – and suggests a cool head when it comes to making changes at home.

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A new FRONT DOOR can make a major difference to your home. It’s not only an important part of the outside look of your property but is also the welcoming gateway to your home. A fresh coat of paint might suffice to fresh up your door but it may be worth investing in a new one, especially one with glass to allow in more light. Consult a local supplier with a good reputation and get advice on what will work in your home. HALLWAYS can soon become dark places unless you work to maximise every bit of light. So, opt for very light wallpaper or paint and use mirrors to open up even the most cramped hall.

At this point, it’s worth taking a deep breath and doing some research. It’s also important to ensure that any new look to your home is something that you’re going to be happy with every single day.

First of all, Vicky points to mistakes that people often make when they upgrade rooms and change furniture, furnishings

However, there are many areas in the home you can tackle for yourself that will transform your rooms and enhance daily living.

interior design consultant Vicky Callan

Be objective about your LOUNGE or living-room. This is somewhere you will probably use a large part of the time so you want it to look and be comfortable and inviting.You may want to upgrade furniture or invest in a new suite. Vicky

suggests keeping colours light and airy “but add a contrast colour to occasional furniture with pictures and cushions.” Use the room’s features to their best advantage. “If you have a bay window, for example, make the most of it and use it as a feature, moving curtains back into the wall, letting more light in. Floor to ceiling curtains will give the room height,” adds Vicky. Cushions and throws in different textures “keep things interesting,” she says, “and mirrors will reflect light into the room and give the illusion of space.” If you want to be bang up-to-date with your décor, Vicky states that a bright, refreshing green called Greenery is the 2017 Pantone Colour of the Year. The industrial look is also still on trend. “Mixing patterns in fabrics like patchwork effects for cushions and bed throws is also very popular, along with lots of designs with butterflies.” Texture is important in fabrics for sofas and also textured rugs. Made-

to-order furniture and lighting are also now much more accessible through independent businesses for homeowners to find and commission. KITCHENS can gain a brighter look with painted walls or by investing in new items like a kettle or storage jars. Continue a new colour scheme with a

piece of suitable artwork on the wall and new floor covering in something durable but attractive. If you can’t afford a new kitchen currently, why not change doors on your units or opt for new work surfaces? It’s surprising what a big difference that can make to a kitchen. Treat yourself to professionally measured and made

The UK’s largest range of Chinese rugs & large rugs Visit frithrugs.co.uk or call 01745 584404 for a catalogue Kinmel Park, Bodelwyddan, N Wales LL18 5TY • SAT NAV: LL18 5TZ Ridings Park, Eastern Way, Cannock WS11 7FJ • SAT NAV: WS11 7FJ Lythgoes Lane (A49), Warrington WA2 7XE • SAT NAV: WA2 7XE 19a Vanguard Way, Shrewsbury SY1 3TG • SAT NAV: SY1 3TG Shield Pk, Link Rd, Filton, Bristol BS34 7BR • SAT NAV: BS34 7BR Open: Mon-Sat: 10.00-5.00, Sunday & Bank Holidays: 10.00-4.00 Closed: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day & Easter Sunday FrithRugs is a trading name of G H Frith (Bodelwyddan) Ltd.

ghf297_17e02_125x190_v1.indd 1

17e02

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HOME curtains or blinds here, and make the window into a real feature. The current trend for BATHROOMS is still to go for pristine white suites. But you can add your signature touches through tiles or painting doors or walls in a clean, sharp shade. Take this new colour through into towels and even clever ornaments, strategically placed. Investing in a new mirror will also give your bathroom a fresh and appealing look. And if you are thinking of updating your bathrom here is our guide to creating the perfect family bathroom

HAVE Plenty of storage Bath time needs to transform from fun playtime to serene relaxation so adequate storage is really important. As well as toys you’ll need to accommodate the extra Toiletries, cleaning products, towels and linen. Pull out draws and shelves makes storage stylish but practical (nothing can hide at the back, meaning mollies favourite bath toys doesn’t got lost). install Heated towel rail & Electric under floor heating With so many family members using the bathroom on a daily basis heated towel rails are a fabulous way of keeping a

nice temperature in the room as well keeping towels fluffy, warm and dry. Electric under floor heating will assist in keeping the room a nice ambient temperature but also helps dry the floor preventing slips after splish-splash bath time. Easy clean & maintenance Busy family life means keeping your bathroom clean and tidy should be easily maintained. Your design choices can make all the difference. Make sure you have the best fan, this will protect you against nasty mildew. Innovative product design means toilets can be rimless and include quick release easy clean seat (because we all want that chore to be as quick and easy as possible) Also your tile choice, try to go floor to ceiling, a well fitted, quality tile will be there forever and takes the pain of painting every few years away. Think Child Friendly Opt for products like soft closing toilet seats, thermostatic showers reduce the risk of scalding as well as mono mixer taps can have temperature regulators them too. Anti-slip shower trays, baths and tiles are also readily available and can reduce the risk of slips and falls. Think about design, perhaps more curved features on baths and vanity units, reducing scrapes or bumps. Plan for the morning rush hour If possible consider some of these time and queue saving ideas, to avoid the manic morning rush. Twin basins get two dirty faces washed and ready to go, twin showers and double ended baths come in useful in these situations. Separating the WC proves popular, too. We spend a large part of our lives in our BEDROOMS so it’s definitely worth getting everything just right here. Vicky advises buying new sheets as “what you use to cover your bed will set the room. Keep it simple – go for fresh white or cream sheets and up-to-date cushions or even change your headboard. “One of my favourite modern additions to any bedroom is an upholstered headboard,” insists Vicky. “It’s just the go-to piece.” Change bedside lamps and add a feature light – “a chandelier is perfect,” she add. “And re-position your bed if you can and make a new feature wall with wallpaper.”

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IT'S ALL ABOUT THE LIGHT BY A N G E L A K E L LY

CHANGING the mood of your home is a definite way to alter and improve your lifestyle in 2018. The wonderful thing about this positive decision is that it can cost as much – or as little – as you want it to, involving differences to your home that are radical or merely minor. “It really all depends on your budget and how much change you want, your circumstances and your surrounding space,” explains interior designer Allyson Houghton from Ideas Interior. She has noticed that a major trend in improving homes today involves glass and letting in plenty of natural light through glass walls and roofs. “This is a natural improver of your mood and helps bring the outside in,” she adds.

”and you can often finally achieve the lifestyle you dreamed of by having this improvement in light and space.” There are many varying styles of both available and, again, choose your

“In bathrooms and kitchens you generally want brighter lights, with softer lighting in the lounge and bedrooms,”

Select your builder carefully, preferably on recommendation, and see for yourself the kind of work he has already carried out. Look at the planning permission or building control approval you might need first by checking on the Government website www.planningportal.gov.uk “Conservatories and orangeries are also very popular these days,” says Allyson,

Take a look at your existing front-door: does it need sprucing up with a lick of paint or do you need a new one? A modern front-door, often with smart glass panels, can make quite a difference to your hallway – “and this area is the gateway to your home as it’s the first thing visitors see so it really needs to give a good impression,” says Allyson.

Try panels on the walls that reflect light. “LED lighting is so far advanced now that you can change the mood whenever you want.” If you are planning major changes to alter the whole mood and atmosphere of your property and way of living, it may well be worth investing in an extension to provide more rooms or an extra bathroom.

supplier carefully. Go online and study the styles that would both complement your own home and will provide the changes you want or visit local showrooms.

Allyson Houghton Ideas Interiors is an established Interior Design Studio based in the heart of Lancashire, and their client geographic stretches from The Highlands to London and further afield in Europe. • For more information go to: www.ideasinterior.co.uk

Lighting around your home is a major improver of mood and feelings. Allyson advises investing in dimmer switches to change the lighting as your own mood changes, and use good-quality candles around the home. “These not only give out a lovely light but can also scent your home – and the senses need soothing in this way so they are a definite mood-changer.” If you’re buying new light fittings, while it’s useful to see what is available by going online, it’s always best to go into shops and stores and see light fittings

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HOME for yourself and the effect they have on an area. Here are some hints and tips to get you started. Size is Important Think about the size of the room before you begin planning. This may sound obvious, but lots of people don’t take the time to consider how the light will look in a certain space. Some bulbs in days gone by were much brighter bulbs than we have today. They may have been as high as a 150 watt bulb (which is now banned). Fast forward to today and it seems we expect a little more from our lighting, and why not? Sure, light fittings are there to do a job - bring light to a room, but just as importantly they add decoration and character to a room. Think about how much light you will need for the room in question?

meters will be 12 square meters 4 x 3 = 12 meters square 12 x 25 = 300 watts Measuring your ceiling height is always a wise move as not all ceiling heights are the same. You don’t want to fit a light that hangs too low or a light that is unreachable if you need to change the bulb. At Pemberton Lighting you have many options to choose from that fit rooms of all shapes, sizes and ceiling heights. If you find you need a little extra light, why not add a decorative or even simple table lamp to boost brightness and character. You may want to consider increasing the light level if you have a very high ceiling. A light fitting with more bulbs or extra table lamps will help as mentioned above. Consider the colour of the room; darker colours absorb more light whereas lighter colours reflect more making the room appear brighter. How will the room be used and what function should each light fitting perform?

Follow this simple formula to give you a good starting point.

open plan space - extra consideration will be needed. It’s common sense that in a kitchen/ diner you will need brighter lights, such as spotlights, to help when preparing food, but when it comes to that ambient romantic dinner, it would be handy to have a dimmer to get the atmosphere just right. Be careful about choosing wall colours and décor throughout your property. Bold colours like reds and greens can be harsh but if you want a more relaxing ambience, neutral shades and gentler colours like blues and lilacs can soothe and improve how you feel as soon as you step through the door. Colour is vital in your home. Introducing colour will change a room, and different rooms need different colours which send out different messages, so it’s important to get it right. If you’ve definitely got a generous budget for changes, investing in a new lounge suite that offers a more comfortable way to relax is worth the effort.

If the room is used for several different functions and occasions, or is a large

For example a room 4 meters by 3

National Helpline 0800 917 7650 www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

Alcoholics Anonymous has over 4,000 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 you can contact Alcoholics Anonymous by using the helpline number above. 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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BLOW THE HOUSING WHISTLE ON CHEATS

HOUSING BLOW THE

NRP REFEREE-RBC-A42.pdf 1 10/05/2012 13:28

CHEATS WHISTLE ON HOUSING CHEATS When somebody with a council or housing association home rents it out

without permission or obtains a home through providing false information, they

When somebody with a council or not fair. housing association home rents it out If you suspect someone of unlawfully sub-letting without permission or obtains a home call us on 0500 500 777 or through providing false information, report online www.reading.gov.uk/fraud Your report will be treated in the strictest confidence and can be given anonymously. they are guilty of housing fraud. They are using up valuable housing spaces and depriving families and vulnerable people on the waiting list. It’s not fair. are guilty of housing fraud. They are using up valuable housing spaces and

© CROWN COPYRIGHT 2009. Copyright in the content, design and typographical arrangement rests with the Crown.

© CROWN COPYRIGHT 2009. Copyright in the content, design and typographical arrangement rests with the Crown.

WHISTLE ON

depriving families and vulnerable people on the waiting list. It’s

T U O K A SPE

NS SPICIO U S E HAV If yOU

When somebody with a council or housing association home rents it out

without permission or obtains a home through providing false information, they are guilty of housing fraud. They are using up valuable housing spaces and depriving families and vulnerable people on the waiting list. It’s

not fair.

If you suspect someone of unlawfully sub-letting

0500 500 777 or report online www.reading.gov.uk/fraud call us on

Your report will be treated in the strictest confidence and can be given anonymously.

If you suspect someone of unlawfully sub-letting call us

When somebody with a council or housing association home rents it out

Your report will be treated in the confidence andlist.can befair. given depriving strictest families and vulnerable people on the waiting It’s not anonymously. If you suspect someone of unlawfully sub-letting without permission or obtains a home through providing false information, they

T U O K A SPE

are guilty of housing fraud. They are using up valuable housing spaces and

NS SPICIO U S E HAV IF Y OU

call us on

0500 500 777 or www.reading.gov.uk/fraud

report online

Your report will be treated in the strictest confidence and can be given anonymously.

We are committed to fighting fraudulent activity The Blue Badge (Disabled Parking) Scheme currently has around 2.5m badges issued Nationally, to eligible applicants. Blue Badge fraud is estimated to cost the UK £46 million per year!

The Investigation Team are committed to fighting fraudulent activity but need your help to do so! If you suspect someone of committing Blue Badge fraud please call us in confidence.

CALL: 0118 937 2143 Email: antifraud@reading.gov.uk Report via web pages: http://www.reading.gov.uk/fraud

OUT & ABOUT 17 Nov-01 January 2018

the first time this year, the top section of the hall is transformed for the Yule Ball with snow, icicles and an orchestra of magical instruments. Around the rest of the studio, special-effect fires roar in the fireplaces, the Gryffindor common room is filled with Christmas treats and the detailed Hogwarts castle model is covered in a special blanket of snow.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park Get into the Christmas spirit as Winter Wonderland returns to London's Hyde Park for the 11th year. This free-to-enter family event includes a host of festive fun and activities, including Winter Wonderland ice skating, big top shows, an observation wheel and a huge Christmas market. London's Winter Wonderland is open daily from 10am to 10pm (except on 17 November, when it opens at 5pm). Winter Wonderland is closed on Christmas Day.

Get up close to props, costumes and models used in the Harry Potter films. Take a look around the studio’s famous movie sets decorated as they were for the festive scenes. And find out how different types of artificial snow and ice were created and used in the films. You can even stay for dinner in the Great Hall on 11, 12 and 13 December.

www.visitlondon.com

www.visitlondon.com

18 November 2017 to 28 January 2018

From 22 November 2017 to 1 January 2018

Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Christmas at Kew Take an enchanting journey into a glittering wonderland with Christmas at Kew at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew.

Winter has arrived at Hogwarts. Glittering Christmas trees line the Great Hall and a replica festive feast including flaming Christmas puddings is laid out on the long tables; while for

the chase's vixen

jenny ryan

The popular after-dark Christmas event returns with a new mile-long trail through the famous botanic gardens, lit up with more than one million lights. Get together with family and friends

and follow the illuminated path around the gardens. The adventure begins with a scenic trail illuminated by hundreds of glowing globes winding through the trees, and an enormous shimmering Sledge Tree made of more than 360 wooden Santa’s sledges. Hear the chorus of Singing Trees before arriving at a wonderful glistening lake, where you’ll witness an underwater display of lights. Discover an ephemeral walkway of giant bubbles, clusters of trees wrapped in ribbons of changing light and a huge weeping beech tree, plus other fascinating installations glowing into the night. See the array of luminous petals at the Great Broad Walk Borders, which features in Christmas at Kew for the first time this year, before ending your journey with the spectacular light, music and water display in front of the iconic Palm House. Little ones can catch a glimpse of Santa and his elves performing panto along the trail, and enjoy a ride on the Victorian carousel and helter skelter. There’s also plenty of delicious Christmas treats and warming winter drinks to be enjoyed in this magical atmosphere that’s guaranteed to get you into the festive spirit. www.visitlondon.com

your foxy favourite

the legendary dj

basil brush

mike read

BACK WITH A BOOM!

with the voice of your favourite doctor who

tom baker

SleepingBeauty as dragon who

windsor's delightful dame

steven blakeley

lead singer of 5 star

denise pearson

29 NOVEMBER 2017 - 7 JANUARY 2018 theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk

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●

01753 853888

windsor's calamitous comic

kevin cruise

BASIL’S

BACK

WITH A

BOO M!

Saturday 2nd December 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Christmas Market Bearwood College, Bearwood Road Winnersh, Berkshire RG41 5BG Monday 4th December 9:30 am - 5:00 pm

Pelican Cancer Christmas Fair The Vineyard Hotel Stockcross, Newbury RG20 8JU Friday December 8th 2017 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm

Dracula theatre production

Adults: £16.50 Concessions: £15.50 Early Bird: £12.50 Family: £59.50 (2 adults & 2 children Pearce Suite Theatre Magnet Leisure Centre, Maidenhead Berkshire SL6 8AW 10th December

THE GREAT THATCHAM SANTA FUN RUN A Santa Fun Run of 5km starting and finishing in Thatcham Broadway organised by Thatcham Rotary Club to raise money for local charities. Run for fun or get sponsorship to raise money for your own local good cause, club or

organisation. Starts with a mass start at 11.00 a.m. Registration opens 1st November, Standard entry fee £15, Students and under 18s £10, children under 8 years £7. Every entrant will receive a Santa Outfit to wear and keep and a commemorative medal on completion of the course. Run for fun or get sponsorship and raise money for your own charity, group or organisation. You can enter on the day from 09.00 a.m. Online or at Kennet Leisure Centre from 1st November. Our profits from the event go to our fund to support local charities. A road and path run of approx 5 km round Thatcham lakes starting and

1897. Transylvania. A lone English solicitor makes an ill-fated visit to an important client at a remote and mysterious castle. Soon afterwards, Count Dracula moves to London, where a bizarre plague begins to stalk its inhabitants. Can an intrepid team led by maverickdoctor, Professor Abraham Van Helsing prevent the infamous Count from getting his fangs into everyone before his grip over the people of London proves fatal? An atmospheric tale of maidens in distress, dark nights and vampires is here presented by Rain or Shine as you’ve never seen it before… Hailed last year as ‘a delicious mirthfest’ Rain or Shine will be raising the stakes by expanding on their new brand of ‘Morecambe & Wise-ish comedy’ style for another season of mystery, mayhem, but above all multi-role madness! The production is organised by Project Purley, Purley’s local history society and you can book your tickets via David Downs on 0118 942 4167 for a fangtastic evening with lots of bite. Tickets are £10.00 for an adult and £6.00 for a child (under 15). As usual profits from the evening will go to local good causes. The Barn, Goosecroft, Purley on Thames, Berkshire RG8 8DR http://www.berkshireeventsguide. co.uk/events/dracula-theatreproduction/ Saturday December 9th 2017 Sunday December 31st 2017 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Aladdin – The Maidenhead Panto

To book call 01753 842121 or visit www.thameshospice.org.uk/wellington Charity No 1108298

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OUT & ABOUT Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Newbury Town Centre Newbury, Berkshire RG14 Call: 01635 760309 Email: info@newburybid.com

finishing in Thatcham Broadway (shorter routes are available). Thatcham, The Broadway Thatcham RG19 3HP Email: santafunrun@rotarythatcham.org.uk Website: http://rotarythatcham.org. uk/id3.html

Maidenhead Christmas Street Food Market

Saturday December 16th 2017 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Shabbytique is running a Xmas food market on Maidenhead high street on Wednesday 20 December.

Carol Concert As with previous years, we will be singing at the wonderful Reading Minster, right in the heart of town.

14th December 16:00 - 20:00

CHOIR OF 1000 VOICES & NEWBURY'S LATE NIGHT SHOPPING

Our concert this year is in aid of Reading Minster Sanctuary. Every weekend, from 10pm until 3am on Friday and Saturday nights, Reading Minster provides a place of refuge, recovery and refreshment to those in need. So why not come along and share a little festive cheer, while raising money for a great local cause? The concert will include a selection of carols and readings to get you in the Christmas spirit. The carols will include some of the most popular tunes for the audience to join in with, as well as some old and new favourites.

For one night only, Newbury will be alive with the sound of local choirs singing across the town before everyone gathers around the magnificent Christmas tree to recreate the choir of 1,000 voices. Newbury BID are once again providing entertainment for all the family with children's rides, Christmas activity workshop, roving entertainers and donkey rides. Come and join us in the Market Place at 19:00 for a big festive sing along!

If you’ve never heard the choir before, then be prepared to be blown away by our quality and love of music-making

Father Christmas will also be in his grotto for the evening, so pop along and tell him what is on your wish list!

Reading Minster, St Mary’s Butts Reading Berkshire RG1 2HX

Come and Shop, Eat, Relax, be Entertained. Holy Trinity Church, Cookham SL6 9SP Sunday 14th January 2018 6.30pm

Epiphany Carols by Candlelight The last of Holy Trinity's trilogy of carol services - with carols and readings celebrating the manifestation of God in the person of Jesus and acknowledging his kingship over all, as symbolised by the visit of the Wise Men. Music led by the Boys & Men of Holy Trinity Church Choir. Collection in aid of Thames Hospice. Holy Trinity Church, Cookham SL6 9SP

see more theatre in 2018 with south hill park A south hill park prOducTiOn

london classic theatre presenTs

William S h a k e S p e a r e ’S

63yrs or over? Thu Mat £6 off Original music score by George Jennings

Tue 6 – Sat 10 Feb 7.15pm, Thu & Fri Mat 2pm

Win 2 tickets TO One Of These prOducTiOns

Thu 1 – Sat 3 Mar 7.45pm, Sat Mat 2.30pm

What goes out in the midday sun with Englishmen according to the famous Coward song? Email answers to competition@southhillpark.org.uk

Winner notification by 1 Jan 18

BOx Office 01344 484123 · southhillpark.orG.uk @SouThhillpark

/SouThhillparkarTSCEnTrE

The Wilde Theatre, south hill park Arts centre, ringmead, Bracknell rG12 7pA

22 | WWW.50PLUSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

South Hill Park Trust Limited A charitable company limited by guarantee

Sunday January 21st 2018 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm

of another person. Anyone aged over two years can be eligible under this condition, including people over 65.

Windsor Winter Half Marathon If you want to get a personal best Half Marathon this should be the one – it is the flattest course in the UK!!! The race takes place on very flat, smooth tarmac roads and paths – completely traffic free, comprising of 4.5 loops of scenic Dorney Lake. Chip timing will be in operation for accurate splits and finish times. The race provides the perfect – and fastest – half marathon in preparation for the 2017 London Marathon. This event at Dorney Lake is fully licensed and certified by UK Athletics to provide 100% accurately measured courses. This means that any time you achieve on these courses can be used for any future event or championship that might require a qualification time. Eton College, Rowing Centre Dorney Lake, Windsor SL4 6QP 9 February 2018

Anton and Erin: From Broadway To Hollywood The Hexagon Theatre Queens Walk, Berkshire, Reading, Reading RG1 7UA 0118 960 6060 Saturday 17 to Sunday 18 March 2018 7pm

Moonraker Night Walk Challenge 2018 This will be the 35th Moonraker Orienteering Night Walk Challenge organised by the Rotary Club of Langley & Iver. The walk is held during the hours of darkness in the Chiltern Hills, renowned for the ancient Ridgeway Path. Each team will be given a map, compass and a set of clues and questions to help them around the 10 mile course. This event raises funds for the Rotary Clubs chosen charities including us. £12.50 per person (teams of 4 people) Chiltern Hills, Buckinghamshire For more information https:// thameshospice.org.uk/nightwalk IF YOU HAVE AN EVENT YOU WOULD LIKE TO PROMOTE IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF 50 PLUS MAGAZINE, PLEASE EMAIL THE DETAILS TO: admin@mcgrathmedia.co.uk

• you are applying on behalf of a child under three with a medical condition that requires them to be close to a vehicle for emergency medical treatment or transporting bulky medical equipment.

Who is eligible for a blue badge? If you are disabled, you may be able to park in restricted areas under the blue badge scheme. The scheme is for drivers and passengers.

If you have any queries about whether you’re eligible for a blue badge, you can contact the national blue badge helpline on 0844 463 0215.

Who can get a blue badge?

How are you assessed?

Some people can get a blue badge automatically. This is called being eligible without further assessment. You fit into this group if one or more of the following applies to you:

If you are eligible subject to further assessment, your local authority will look at the evidence of your disability to decide whether you can have a blue badge.

• you are registered as blind/severely sight impaired

You may need to have an independent mobility assessment. If you have applied for or held a blue badge previously, your GP may have carried this out. Assessments may now be carried out by an independent mobility assessor. This is usually a medical professional such as an occupational therapist or physiotherapist, who has never treated you before.

• you receive the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement • you receive the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) • you receive the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and you scored at least 8 points in relation to the ‘moving around’ activity in the PIP assessment, or least 12 points in the mobility activity for planning and following journeys

If your local authority wants you to have a mobility assessment, it will refer you to the assessor. You will not be charged for the assessment.

• you have been awarded a lump sum benefit from the Armed Forces Compensation scheme (tariffs 1 to 8). You have also been certified as having a permanent and substantial disability which means you can’t walk or find walking very difficult

You may not be required to undergo an assessment if your council says it is very obvious that you are eligible or ineligible.

Blue Badge (disabled parking permits) Fraud:

• you receive a government grant towards your own vehicle. If you were on higher rate mobility component of DLA, but you had to claim PIP instead and didn’t get enough points to be eligible for a blue badge, you can continue to use your badge until it expires. If none of these apply to you, you may still be eligible. This is called being eligible subject to further assessment, and will apply to you if you meet one of these criteria:

Disabled Parking Permits or Blue Badges are issued by your Local Authority to persons with a genuine need to access facilities and park within easy reach of these. However there are some people who are prepared to misuse or fraudulently acquire these badges. The Investigation Team are committed to fighting fraudulent activity but need your help to do so! If you suspect someone of committing Blue Badge fraud please contact us in confidence.

• you have a permanent or substantial disability which means you can’t walk or find walking very difficult • you are a driver and have severe upper limb disabilities • as a result of a mental disorder you are unable to follow the route of a familiar journey without the assistance

CALL 0118 937 2143 Email antifraud@reading.gov.uk Report via web pages http://www.reading.gov.uk/fraud

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FOOD & DRINK

Anjum Anand's

'I Love India' Steamed Nepalese meat momos Momos are a Nepalese dumpling similar to a Chinese one, but made with Nepalese/Indian ingredients. Calcutta is full of momo houses and, whenever I go, I have to eat in them at least once. You are given a menu full of options, steamed and pan-fried and stuffed with as many fillings as the chef can imagine, everything from mutton to vegetables – even paneer. The traditional dipping sauce is fiery and tomato-ey, but I often mix some finely chopped ginger, garlic and green chillies into soy sauce and that normally hits the spot without much fuss. Momos are easy to make, fun and really satisfying. The dough can be made in advance, but will soften as it sits. You can form the momos just before your friends arrive and have the steamer ready and the kettle boiling so, when your friends are settling in, all you need to do is light the fl­ame. Makes 24 Mix together all the ingredients for the filling. (You can fry a little of it to test the seasoning, if you like.) Cover and leave this one to rest for 1 hour in the fridge. For the dough, mix the flour and salt together in a large bowl and add the water slowly, mixing well to create a medium-stiff dough. Knead well and add a little more water if the dough splits. Cover with a damp dish towel, or wrap in cling film (plastic wrap), and leave to rest for 20 minutes. Take out the dough and knead well again. Roll it into 2 long sausage shapes about 2cm in diameter. Mark the halfway point with a knife and then further mark each half into 6 sections, giving you 24 equal pieces. Cut one sausage of dough at a time, covering the remainder each time to prevent the rest drying out. Roll each piece out thinly, on a lightly floured surface, into a 7.5cm circle about 1mm thick. Place 1½–2 tsp of the filling into the centre of each skin. I hold the momo in my left hand with my thumb on the stuffing. With my right hand I seal the tops together, folding a little as I go. My thumb from the left hand presses the filling down to make sure there is none in the sealed edges. Basically, you need to enclose the filling in the dough without any tears; you can do it any way which feels easy. Oil the surface of a steamer basket, or line with greaseproof paper. Arrange the momos on the oiled surface as you make them, leaving some space between them as they expand a little. Cover and steam on a rolling boil for 11–13 minutes. Serve immediately.

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Ingredients: For the filling 250g (9oz) minced (ground) pork, lamb or chicken thigh 10g (1⁄2 packed cup) coriander (cilantro) stalks and leaves, finely chopped handful of green peas, defrosted (optional) 1⁄4 small red onion, finely chopped 20g (1⁄6 cup) spring onions (scallions), finely chopped 1⁄2–1 tsp green chillies (chiles), finely chopped 3 large garlic cloves, finely grated or finely chopped 15g (1 tbsp) finely chopped root ginger (peeled weight) 3⁄4 tsp garam masala (fresh if possible). 2 tsp dark soy sauce 1⁄4 tsp freshly ground black pepper 2 good pinches of salt vegetable oil, for the steamer basket (optional) For the dough 100g (3⁄4 cup) plain (all-purpose) flour, plus more to dust good pinch of salt 5 tbsp cold water, plus more to seal

Coastal crab and coconut curry Ingredients: 5 tbsp vegetable oil 1 tsp brown mustard seeds 15 fresh or dried curry leaves 1 onion, finely chopped salt 40g (2 rounded tbsp) roughly chopped root ginger (peeled weight) cloves from 1⁄2 large head of garlic 400g (14oz/4 medium-large) tomatoes, blended until smooth 1⁄4–1⁄2 tsp chilli (chili) powder, or to taste 1⁄2 tsp ground turmeric 2 tsp ground cumin 2 tsp ground coriander 3⁄4 tsp freshly ground black pepper 3 tsp garam masala (fresh if possible) 80g (3⁄4 cup) fresh grated coconut (you can buy this frozen in Asian supermarkets as well as fresh in some supermarkets now), plus more to serve (optional) 2–3 green chillies (chiles), stalks removed, pierced with a knife 1 medium-sized crab, around 1.2kg (2lb 12oz) cleaned, lightly broken up in places 2 tsp tamarind paste, or to taste handful of chopped coriander (cilantro, optional), to serve

Having grown up with a father who absolutely loved good food (I’m sure most of our holidays were based around a city he wanted to eat at) and also had a general passion for travel and eating, I have had my fair share of the world’s delicious crab dishes. I’ve eaten fried soft-shell crabs by the Potomac in Washington, crab cakes in New York, chilli crab in Singapore… and just American-style, cooked and served with a butter sauce. But, I have to say, none are quite as delicious as India’s Malabar Coast crab dishes. Cooked with local spices and coconut, you are literally licking your fingers as you break bits open. Many feel that cooking an expensive crab with Indian spices is a waste and that the flavours would be drowned out. I think that cooking it any other way is a waste of good crab! This is not a watery curry; here the sauce is thick but not so dry it clings. Serves 4 Heat the oil in a large non-stick karahi, wok or saucepan. Add the mustard seeds and, as they are popping, add the curry leaves and cook for another 10 seconds or so. Add the onion and a little salt and cook until it is soft and has a good golden brown colour on the edges, around 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, make a paste in a blender of the ginger and garlic with some water. Add to the pan and cook for 1–2 minutes or so, or until the water has dried off and the garlic smells cooked. Add the tomatoes, seasoning and powdered spices and cook well until the masala releases oil into the pan, around 15 minutes, stirring often. Once it has released oil into the pan, stir-fry over a high heat to darken a little. This will deepen the flavour and colour. Meanwhile, blend the coconut with some water until smooth. Once the tomatoes are done, add the coconut and chillies, bring back to the boil and add the crab. Cook for 2–3 minutes, then add enough water to come just halfway up the crab. Return to the boil, cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Once the crab is done, add most of the tamarind, taste and adjust the seasoning and add more tamarind or chilli powder for more tang or heat respectively. There should be a lot of thick sauce; this is not a watery curry, you should be able to eat the creamy sauce with rice. Serve sprinkled with coriander or coconut, or both.

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FOOD & DRINK 400g (11⁄2 cups) Greek yogurt salt and freshly ground black pepper 8g (11⁄2 tsp) shredded mint leaves small splash of milk and/or a pinch of sugar (optional) A lovely, refreshing raita that is really versatile, lovely with Indian food, great with grilled meals and very refreshing just with some naan or pitta bread. Serves 4: Place the cumin seeds in a small dry frying pan over a medium heat and stir just until they turn a shade darker and smell aromatic. Remove and grind to a powder in a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder. Grate the cucumber on the coarse side of a box grater. Squeeze out all the excess water and place the cucumber in a large bowl. Add three-quarters of the cumin and all the remaining ingredients except the milk or sugar and stir well to mix. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding the milk or sugar if the raita tastes too sour for you. Sprinkle over the remaining cumin and serve chilled.

Fragrant pea and carrot pilaf A colourful, lovely rice pilaf that goes with everything and smart enough to cook when you have friends over. You can also make it just with peas, just with carrots, or even add some chopped green beans. Serves 4–6

Spinach and garlic raita 75g (21⁄2 packed cups) baby spinach 450g (11⁄2 cups) Greek yogurt salt lots of freshly ground black pepper 1⁄2–1 garlic clove, to taste, finely grated 1⁄2–3⁄4 tsp roast and ground cumin seeds I have been eating garlic flavoured Greek yogurt with my food ever since I visited Greece years ago. Add as much or as little garlic as you like, or to suit what you are eating it with (spiced meats can take more than vegetables). Serves 4: Place the spinach in a saucepan with 2–3 tablespoons of water and cook until soft, 1–2 minutes. Drain and squeeze out the excess water. Stir the spinach into the yogurt with the salt, pepper, garlic and cumin. Serve chilled.

Classic cucumber and mint raita 1 tsp cumin seeds 200g (1⁄2 large) cucumber

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350g (2 cups) basmati rice, well washed 4 tbsp vegetable oil 13⁄4 rounded tsp cumin seeds 10cm (4in) cinnamon stick 4 cloves 2 black cardamom pods 2 bay leaves 1 onion, sliced 1 small carrot, cut into 1cm (1⁄2in) cubes 120g (3⁄4 cup) frozen peas, defrosted salt 3⁄4 tsp garam masala Place the rice in a saucepan and pour in at least 8cm (3in) of water to cover. Bring to the boil and simmer for 6–8 minutes. Try a grain at 6 minutes: it should be nearly soft. If not, cook for another minute and taste again. Drain the rice in a sieve, then pour it back into the pan. Cook for another 40 seconds over the heat to dry off any excess water and then turn off the heat, cover the pot and let the rice steam for 8–10 minutes. It should now be fully cooked through. Heat the oil in a wide frying pan and add the spices and bay leaves. Cook until the cumin is aromatic, around 20 seconds. Add the onion and fry until just soft. Add the carrot, peas and salt, stir and cook for 2 minutes. Finally, cover and cook for 3 minutes. Uncover the rice pan: there should be no water left (if there is, cook it off over a high heat). Add the rice and garam masala to the frying pan and stir well. Taste, adjust the seasoning and serve.

Sticky saffron dumplings INGREDIENTS Makes 18 (serves 1–2 per person) For the dumplings: 400ml (12⁄3 cups) whole milk powder (measure it in a measuring cup), plus more if needed 100g (1⁄2 cup) plain (all-purpose) flour 2⁄3 tsp baking powder 2 tbsp ghee, plus more to form the dumplings 5 tbsp plain yogurt 5 tbsp whole milk vegetable oil, to deep-fry sliced pistachios, to serve (optional) For the syrup: 450g (scant 2 cups) granulated sugar 650ml (22⁄3 cups) water 2 good pinches of saffron threads 1⁄2–1 tsp rose water, depending on strength

India has a whole genre of sweet desserts which were once made in the home, but are now mostly made by specialized halvaies – Indian pâtissiers. Gulab jamun are one of India’s favourites: little syrupy doughnuts made from thickened milk instead of flour and soaked in sugar syrup rather than stuffed with jam or sweetened in the batter. I use dry milk powder which I rehydrate, not the traditional thickened, solidified milk, as that takes too long and needs too much attention to make. There are only two tricks to getting these doughnuts right: the right consistency of dough (not too soft, not too hard); and frying them over a very low heat so they cook all the way to the centre, stirring the oil almost continuously so they brown evenly. I like them warm as they will be softer, and you can reheat them in their syrup, but you can equally eat them cold. Serve as they are, or with a little ice cream. Mix together the dry ingredients for the dumplings. Spoon in the ghee, yogurt and milk. Mix well with your hands to bring the dough together; it will be moist. Set aside. For the syrup, heat the sugar, water and saffron together in a saucepan, stirring to help the sugar dissolve. Once boiling, simmer for around 3–4 minutes, then turn off the heat. Add the rose water, using the smaller amount first and tasting until you have a strength you prefer.

Meanwhile, pour 8–10cm (3–4in) of oil into a medium-large karahi, wok or wide saucepan. Heat gently. Divide the dough in half. Wet some kitchen paper and place on top of the dough you aren’t working with. Grease your palms well with ghee, take half the dough and form it into 9 small balls; I like to make them slightly oval rather than round, but you can shape them as you like. The surfaces should be smooth and crack-free. (If the dough is too soft to shape, add a little milk powder.) Repeat to make and shape the remaining dumplings. To check if the oil is ready, put a tiny pinch of the dough into the oil. It should only sizzle very slightly. When it is ready, add the balls in batches so as not to crowd the pan, stirring the oil as you put them in. Cook over a gentle heat, stirring and turning them very often for even browning, they should take 15–17 minutes per batch to reach a lovely golden brown. Once done, take them out with a slotted spoon and place straight into the syrup. Repeat with the next batch. Cover and leave to soak for 2 hours, or overnight, in the fridge. They should last 10 days or more. Serve as they are, or sprinkle them with sliced pistachios.

I Love India by Anjum Anand (Quadrille, £20) Photography © Martin Poole

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HEALTH hearing aids. Conductive hearing loss is typically the result of obstructions in the ear. Conductive hearing loss can usually be treated medically or surgically. And finally, you could have a combination of both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss.

Time to take action Hearing loss can happen at any time, at any age. Most people with hearing loss (65%) are actually younger than 65. On average, people wait 7 years between first noticing their hearing loss and finally taking action. But the sooner you do something about it the better. Over time, reduced stimulation to your ears and brain can actually

Ask the experts at Mary Hare about hearing loss Mary Hare has been helping people

infections of the head or ear, aging and

with hearing difficulties for well over

reaction to drugs or cancer treatment.

a hundred years. So when it comes to getting advice about hearing loss,

There are 3 types of hearing loss.

there’s no one better to ask than the

Sensorineural hearing loss is the most

experts at Mary Hare Hearing Centre.

common type. It occurs when the inner ear nerves (and hair cells) are

The early signs of hearing loss

damaged and don’t properly transmit auditory signals to the brain. This type

Many of us don’t notice the early signs of hearing loss because we slowly adjust to the change. Some of the common signs of hearing loss include: •

Asking others to repeat themselves

•

Turning up the TV or radio to

volume levels others find loud

•

Having trouble understanding

conversation in noisy places

•

Feeling like other people mumble

or slur their words

•

Avoiding social situations that were

once enjoyable

There are several different causes. The main ones include excessive noise, infections, genetics, birth defects,

of hearing loss can be treated with

impair the brain’s ability to process sound and recognise speech. The more speech recognition deteriorates, the more difficult it is to recover. And when you can’t hear what’s going on around you, your mental sharpness suffers. The quicker you take action, the sooner you put a stop to the negative effects of hearing loss and begin to regain sharpness, confidence and control.

The truth about hearing aids Today’s hearing aids are smaller, more discreet and more stylish than ever before. Some sit behind the ear,

Choosing the right hearing aids

while others are completely invisible.

When you think about all the benefits of

They also include different levels of

better hearing, you’ll see all the positive

technology to suit your specific needs

opportunities that hearing aids can

Things to consider include; the nature

and budget. You can stream stereo

create to change your life.

and severity of your hearing loss, your

sound from TVs and radios directly to

lifestyle and the activities you regularly

some hearing aids and talk on your

While no hearing aid can restore your

take part in, your job, your eyesight and

phone hands-free, amongst other

hearing, they are designed to let you

dexterity and the size and shape of your

things.

hear soft sounds that you couldn’t

outer ear and inner ear canal.

hear before and prevent loud sounds Once you have a hearing aid, the

from becoming unbearable. They

Only highly trained hearing

chances are that your quality of life will

will also help to improve your ability

professionals, like the audiologists

greatly improve. Research on people

to understand speech, even in noisy

at Mary Hare Hearing Centre, can

with hearing loss and their families and

places like restaurants and shopping

determine the severity of your hearing

friends has shown that hearing aids

malls.

problem, whether or not you could

play a big part in a person’s social,

benefit from a hearing aid and which

emotional, psychological and physical

type would be best for you.

well-being. Treatment of hearing loss has been shown to improve: •

Communication in relationships

•

Intimacy and warmth in family

relationships •

Ease in communication

•

Sense of control over your life

•

Social participation

If you’d like to book a free initial hearing assessment call 01635 523 343 or email newburycentre@maryhare.org.uk 50% of Mary Hare Hearing Centre’s profits go towards the education of deaf children and young people at Mary Hare School.

If you’re finding it harder to hear the grandchildren it may be time to book a hearing test. Mary Hare has been helping people with hearing difficulties for well over a hundred years. So when it comes to quality hearing care, we’re the experts. To book your free initial assessment call us on 01635 523 343 or come and see us at 10 Weavers Walk, Newbury, RG14 1AL www.maryharehearingcentres.co.uk

50% of our profits go to Mary Hare School for deaf children

CARE

Live-In Care:

One-to-one care in the home you love. Britain’s older population is set to increase

dementia and arthritis being among the

hand to oversee any issues and to offer

dramatically, with the number of over 65’s

most common reasons for hospitalisation.

a fully supported care service. Bluebird

increasing by 51% by 2030. Public services

Providing the older generation with

Care completes all the necessary

are already feeling the pressure and care

adequate care that can handle these

employment checks, such as with the

homes are over-crowded and under-staffed

conditions by staff who receive

police or criminal records authorities and

as it is. With the impending influx of those

appropriate training could easily prevent

care worker references. Each care worker

needing an extra hand looming large,

many hospital admissions.

receives on-going training and support

alternatives to residential care need to be

while they are looking after you at home.

considered, live-in care being one such

Care homes are struggling as it is with

We asked Kevin Maslen, Operations

solution.

tight budgets and often specialist

Director at Burnham based Bluebird Care

training is over-looked causing quality

to give his perspective on a number of

Nearly half a million older people are

of care to suffer as a result. Live-in care

questions frequently asked when families

hidden away in care homes, out of sight

professionals, such as those provided by

are considering live-in care for their loved

and out of mind. Not only damaging

Bluebird Care, are hand-picked for each

ones.

for those kept from their loved ones but

unique placement and are given training

we also suffer as a whole community,

tailored to meet the specific requirements

missing out on the invaluable voice of

of the client. With just the one customer

experience that our older generation

to care for, the carer is able to devote

provide. Caring for older people within

more time to carry out the basic tasks that

their own home allows them to retain as

are so often forgotten or overlooked in

A. Rather than several visits from home

much independence as possible as well as

residential care homes.

care assistants each day, your loved one would have a dedicated carer to

to continue being part of their much-loved communities.

Q. What does live-in Care entail?

As a nationwide provider, Bluebird

provide the care they need twenty-

Care works to accredited training and

four hours a day, every day. This way

The NHS is already straining under

induction standards and are able to

pressure caused by an increase in older

provide full support and supervision in

they can enjoy independent living in

patients, with age related ailments such as

person with the management team on

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their own home, but with the advantages of care on the spot

whenever it is needed. Receiving this

we can arrange breaks, hospital

that every effort is made for the live-in

one to one care supports the growth

visits and introduce a new carer on

carer to feel supported and cared for to

of a fantastic working relationship

the same day in the event of

enable them to concentrate on doing a

between carer and customer providing

unplanned circumstances.

fantastic job.

Q. What do I need to consider to be ready for a live in package of care?

Q. How do you monitor the quality of both the caregiver and the package of care you provide?

the stability, real time support and continuity of care.

Q. What happens if the regular caregiver becomes ill or needs to leave at short notice? A. Although the live-in care package is a partnership between a regular caregiver and your loved one they are both supported by a large local team of carers, supervisors, office staff and care managers that are never more than thirty minutes away. Providing this local infrastructure ensures we can respond rapidly to the changing needs of both the carer and customer,

A. Our management team can support you and your loved one with all the information you will require and assess the customers’ needs to ensure an individual package of care. One thing to take into consideration is carer accommodation. A live-in carer must have their own uncluttered room with a

A. Bluebird Care uses a software system which is available on our carers phones to collect real time data around the tasks completed each and every day. Our carers and management team will also be available to spot check and supervise the

suitable bed and with a functioning heat

package of care regularly ensuring our

source. The carer must have access to a

high standards are met consistently and

shared or private bathroom and ideally

any issues or concerns can be resolved

Wi-Fi so they can communicate regularly

promptly.

with the office and their family. We ask

Home is where the best care is by your side Bluebird Care South Bucks, South Wycombe & Slough

31 Summers Road, Burnham SL1 7EP. Telephone: 01628 605 797 www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/southbucks

Franchise of the Year 2017 Bluebird Care South Bucks & Slough

What we offer We offer everything from personal care to shopping, cleaning or social visits. In fact everything you need to stay in the comfort of your own home.

My life My home My cuppa, just the way I like it

Alternative Bluebird Care offers a realistic cost effective alternative to residential care. With familiar friends, relatives and possessions around, Bluebird Care ‘just happens’.

Home & live in care from Bluebird Care

Our staff Our staff are caring, trained to give medication and police checked.

Find us on Facebook & Twitter

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