cheltenham issue 22

CHELTENHAM & GLOUCESTERJULY - SEPTEMBER 2013EDITION 22

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

The worldaccordingto Joan

Hairy BikersDelicious Summer dishes

Bankable Supplier Panels, European

Inverters & German Roof Fixings at NO

extra Cost!* *subject to availability

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The benefits of SolarPV panels for generating your own electricity are still dramatic and a clear winner for anyone wishing to safeguard against future energy price increases, while generating for themselves a predictable income stream over the next 20 years. The Feed-in-Tariff for generating your own electricity is now 14.9p per unit and with the overall cost of installing Solar Panels down by 60%, SolarPV is more affordable than ever for homeowners. The average age of a typical domestic solar panel customer is 60 plus, which may not be so surprising when one considers this is one of the highest disposable income groups. With mortgages paid off any retirement savings are earning a pittance in ISAs and other traditional forms of investments. The advent of SolarPV and the Government Feed-in-Tariff scheme has offered a safe investment vehicle that now yields far more than can be currently earned elsewhere, as well as a way of making fuel savings and doing your bit for the environment. Of course the basic premise is that those looking for the benefits from generating their own electricity have capital to invest. The investment to install SolarPV panels will vary according to the size of system but a domestic one of 4kW (16 panels) will now be around £6195, or £5195 for 2.5kW (10 panels). Investing in SolarPV should be considered a medium term investment that is tied to the value of your property rather like buying a new kitchen or a conservatory. But unlike other home improvements SolarPV will earn you money from the outset; generating free electricity and a tax free income day after day, year after year. In the right conditions an installation can net savings and income in excess of £900 per year, effectively paying off the initial cost in around six to seven years, which stacks up to a very attractive 16% return on investment. Even if your roof is East or West facing, you only have a flat roof, space on a garage or barn then the sums can still stack up.

online for a free estimate

www.2020solarpv.com 01386 80 2020

“What we say is what wemean”

CHELTENHAM ISSUE 22.indd 2-3 10/07/2013 11:53

Orchard Park, TwigworthA New Lifestyle forthe over 50s

For further information telephone: 01793 722100

www.pineview.co.uk

Are you retiring, or looking to downsize yet do not wish to compromise on your high standard of living? A park home lifestyle could be your solution, 50 Plus finds out.

A peaceful location with easy access to all local amenities.

With beautiful views over the nearby surrounding hills, Orchard Park nestles just two miles from the hustle and

bustle of the centre of Gloucester. An exclusive development with its own on site shop and not too far away from Tewkesbury Abbey and Gloucester Quays and the cathedral.

Now released, only two plots from this development remaining within this well established park, which boast apple trees and pear trees over laden with fresh fruit for easy picking.

A typical new park home comes with two double bedrooms, fully fitted kitchen with integrated appliances. To the exterior with each home will be a driveway and garden, somewhere to relax and unwind during your post work leisure years.

We would be very proud to show anyone around our current development and answer any questions about the park or the home options that can be chosen.

2 OTHER PARKS IN THE SURROUNDINGAREA WITH HOMES FOR SALE AREWILDWOOD PARK, CIRENCESTER

BLUNSDON ABBEY PARK, SWINDON

12-13

16-17

10-11

14-15

26-27

For details of advertising CALL 01204 796 494 or email

[email protected] today.

THE NEXT ISSUE OF

CHELTENHAM & GLOUCESTER IS PUBLISHED IN NOVEMBER

6

MARCHANTS COACHESHolidays

12 Aug Butlins Minehead 4 nights From £255 per person18 Aug Weymouth 6 nights From £384 per person02 Sep Pennines (extra singles) 4 nights From £280 per person06 Sep Kent Gardens 4 nights From £385 per person07 Sep Jersey 7 nights From £435 per person13 Sep Paignton 3 nights From £215 per person16 Sep Scarborough 4 nights From £396 per person20 Sep Kings Lyn 3 nights From £269 per person23 Sep Torquay 4 nights From £299 per person30 Sep Sidmouth 4 nights From £359 per person06 Oct Isle of Man 4 nights From £350 per person07 Oct Isle of Wight 4 nights From £319 per person11 Oct Criccieth 3 nights From £232 per person14 Oct Prestatyn 4 nights From £289 per person21 Oct Torquay (extra singles) 3 nights From £289 per person01 Nov Blackpool 3 nights From £145 per person03 Nov Disneyland Paris 3 nights From £184 per person04 Nov Jersey T & T 4 nights From £295 per person11 Nov Dunoon T & T 4 nights From £267 per person18 Nov Torquay Festive 4 nights From £249 per person29 Nov Sidmouth T & T 4 nights From £229 per person01 Dec Thursford 3 nights From £332 per person03 Dec Brugge Xmas Markets 3 nights From £250 per person05 Dec Lincoln Markets 2 nights From £205 per person06 Dec Edinburgh Markets 3 nights From £333 per person23 Dec Torquay Xmas 4 nights From £499 per person23 Dec Penzance Xmas 4 nights From £510 per person

Holidays 201409 Mar Austrian Winter Wonderland 6 nights From £499 per person

Theatres & Shows20 Jul Lion King (last few tickets) Ads £75 Snr £73 Chd £7005 Sep Phantom of the Opera Ads £65 Snr £63 Chd £6008 Oct Jersey Boys Ads £70 Snr £68 Chd £6523 Oct CATS Ads £38 Snr £37 Chd £3002 Nov Disney On Ice Ads £40 Snr £39 Chd £3502 Nov Slavas Snow Show Ads £35 Snr £33 Chd £2514 Nov Billy Elliot Ads £60 Snr £58 Chd £5524 Nov Tatton Park Xmas Spectacular Ads £80 Snr £78 Chd £6027 Nov Putting On The Ritz (overnight) Rooms £109 Per Person01 Dec Thursford Holiday Show Rooms £332 Per Person20 Dec Ghost On Tour Ads £52 Snr £50 Chd £4523 Dec Andre Rieu @ Wembley From £95.00 per person28 Dec Cinderella (Panto) Bristol Ads £49 Snr £47 Chd £40

Theatre 201429 Jan West Side Story @ Bristol Ads £50 Snr £48 Chd £4505 Feb Matilda The Musical Ads £70 Snr £68 Chd £6020 Feb Barry Humphries Ads £51 Snr £50 Chd £4922 Mar Dirty Dancing Ads £60 Snr £58 Chd £5506 Aug Wicked @ Birmingham Ads £65 Snr £63 Chd £5822 Nov Tatton Park Xmas Spectacular (overnight stay Bed & 3 course Dinner and day at Manchester Xmas Markets) Rooms £135 per person07 Dec London Medieval Banquet (overnight 4* B & B overlooking Tower Bridge & free day in London Rooms £149 per person

MARCHANTS ARE HAPPY TO OFFER A 10% DISCOUNT ON ALL THEATRE BOOKINGS WHEN CUSTOMER BRINGS THIS

ADVERT WHEN THEY MAKE THEIR BOOKING.

To book call 01242 257714 or visit our office @61 Clarence Street, Cheltenham, Glos GL50 3LB

www.marchants-coaches.com

6 Graham Smith... Twittering on

7 Yeomans Travel... Just book up, pack up and go!

10-11 Say ‘Aloha’ to Hawaii... The ultimate dream destination

12-13 Christian Guild Holidays... For the perfect break.

14-15 The World According to Joan... Joan Collins strolls through the highlights of her life

16-17 The Hairy Dieters... Delicious Summer Dishes!

26-27 Dementia... Making the most out of life.

inside...

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

Your autobiography captured in a beautiful, illustrated volume for your family to treasure.

Complete with a web site of your pictures and recordings of your stories. Written in Haworth, home of the Brontes.

Haworth gave birth to the historic novels of the Bronte sisters and it can become the birthplace of your personal story. Makes a wonderful gift for loved ones.

Bronte Book will publish your personal autobiography, written and published in Haworth, to pass on as a living legacy after making detailed recordings.

Within the four month long process comes your own web site (also available separately) containing recordings, pictures and special stories. Your own living legacy which we know you will enjoy compiling.

You may choose a book and/or a web site and an e-book within the package which starts from £300 ranging to £2,750 for the full process, which can include up to 20 books. A deposit with instalment payments plan is available.

My Bronte Book

Details from www.brontebook.weebly.comor Bronte Media, [email protected]: 01535 959002, Mobile: 07866 626090

Ring for an appointment. All work Guaranteed. Competitive Rates.

Telephone: 01242 522322First Floor, 22 Suffolk Road, Cheltenham, Glos. GL50 2AQ.

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Cotswold Dental Laboratory Ltd

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Dentures RepairedWhile you shop

(waiting time approx. 2 hours)Dentures Strengthened or Remodelled by

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Martyn Young Dental Technician

TWITTERING ON with Graham SmithLittle lit up donkey!Hundreds of donkeys are to be fitted with glow-in-the-dark ear tags in Botswana to stop accidents on rural roads at night.

About 500 of the animals will be fitted with the reflective tags in the north of the country where one in ten crashes is donkey-related.

I think it’s a wonderful idea and also recommend the tags for those barmy joggers who tear around in pitch blackness.The UK-based Society For The Protection Of Animals Abroad is paying for the Maun Animal Welfare Society, in Botswana, to carry out the project.

Laura Higham, outreach veterinary advisor for SPANA, said: “The people that own working donkeys are some of the very poorest in Botswana’s society and often have no choice other than to let their animals roam freely in search of food in the sparse desert environment.

“This practice is essential, but obviously makes the donkeys vulnerable to accidents and we hope that this simple solution will help reduce the number of collisions caused by the animals every year.”

The charities hope the project will be adopted in other parts of the country, and will be the first step towards making reflective tags a legal requirement for freely roaming livestock.

Isn’t science wonderful?

Twittering PopeI could of course make some very irreverent remark about the fact that the Pope has opened a Twitter account. But he’s got something going for him for he picked up over 300,000 followers in the first 24 hours of tweeting putting Stephen Fry and others in the shade.

I have a sneaking admiration for any 85-year-old who takes up social media but note that he has a new media department who will doubtless be handling his tweets before publication. It remains to be seen if congregations dwindle in the light of this innovation or whether many turn over in bed on Sunday morning and reach for their lap top!

Is your man a pig?A US company has created a gift for the man who has everything - bacon flavoured shaving scream.

J&D’s new product is described as “high end, luxurious bacon-scented shaving cream” and is on sale for about £9.

Inventor Justin Esch said: “There is nothing more powerful than the smell of bacon, nothing. Bacon is the smell of champions.

“Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and bacon is the best part of breakfast. Why not smell like it and be the best?”The self-titled “bacontrepreneur” has also come up with other pork inspired products such as bacon roses, bacon lip balm and bacon baby formula.

And, for those “who love bacon to death”, he has created a £2,000 bacon-wrapped coffin.

Mr Esch added: “Bacon is delicious, people get excited when they smell it. When you walk into a room don’t you want people to be excited to see you?”

I told you they weren’t all locked up.

7www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Departing: Sunday 4th August 2013 Your mini break includes:

1 night at the 4 star Hilton Bristol Hotel with dinner, bed & breakfast. Use of the hotel’s indoor heated pool. Coach travel to Bath with free time to explore. Coach travel to Longleat. Day ticket for Longleat enabling you access

to attractions including Longleat House and Gardens and the Safari and Adventure Park .

Departing: Sunday 28th July 2013 Your holiday includes:

2 overnight hotel stops in Belgium on a Half Board basis and 5 Nights at the 4 star Panther Hotel in Saalbach on an All Inclusive basis. Visit to the picturesque Kitzbuhel, with its

famous Hahnenkamm mountain soaring over the town before a visit to the town of Zell am Zee on the shores of Lake Zell. A free day to explore Saalbach. Full day excursion to Salzburg, famous for the

Austrian composer Mozart and architecture. Full day excursion to the spectacular

“Glossglockner”- the highest peak in Austria.

Austria—All Inclusive

Departing: Saturday 10th August 2013 Your holiday includes:

1 nights ensuite at the 4 star Hilton London Metropole, situated approximately a 15 minute walk from Oxford Street! Bed & Breakfast. Entrance to the Houses of Parliament for a

guided tour. Entrance to Buckingham Palace state rooms.

Departing: Friday 9th August 2013 Your holiday includes:

3 nights ensuite at the grade 2 listed Warners Nidd Hall Hotel set on the edge of the Yorkshire Moors near Harrogate. Dinner, Bed & Breakfast. Use of the Warner Leisure and hotel facilities

including the indoor pool, sauna and steam room. Outdoor bowls, archery & tennis. Evening entertainment during our stay -

“Comedy Showtime and Laughter show”. Visit to the historic spa town of Harrogate. Scenic drive through part of the Yorkshire

Dales .

Warners Nidd Hall

Prices are based on two people sharing a room. Please note this tours list is not exhaustive so please contact us for our complete coach holiday brochure!

8 Days

£599 per person

2 Days

£84 per person

4 Days

£374 per person

2 Days

£179 per person

Bath & Longleat Mini Break

London Mini Break Crown & Commons

Departing: Sunday 11th August 2013 Your Cruise includes:

12 nights cabin accommodation on board the Balmoral- different grades available Coach travel to/from the Ferry port! All meals throughout your cruise, from five

course dining to relaxed buffets Varied day time activities Choice of live evening entertainment 3 formal nights

Fred Olsen Cruise - Spain, Portugal & Gibraltar Explorer 13 Days

£1165 per person

Departing: Monday 12th August 2013 Your Holiday includes:

4 nights ensuite accommodation at the 4 star Grand Hotel Vianden with Dinner, Bed & Breakfast. A full day in Luxembourg with a sightseeing

tour. Excursion to the Roman town of Trier

situated in the Moselle Valley. Morning excursion to Vianden giving you

time to explore the town. In the afternoon we travel to the ‘Wine City of Luxembourg’-Moselle and visit the Caves Bernard-Massard in Grevenmacher.

5 Days From

£369 per person

Luxembourg

London Theatre Break Harrogate & Scenic Yorkshire 5 Days

£299 per person

2 Days

£169 per person

Departing: Monday 16th September 2013 Your Holiday includes:

4 nights ensuite accommodation at the 3 star AA rated Cairn Hotel situated only a 5 minute walk from the centre of Harrogate. Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Excursion to the market town of Skipton

before a visit to Ripon, famous for its Cathedral and museum. Half day visit to the picturesque Harewood

House. Excursion to the historic city of York.

Departing: Saturday 28th September 2013 Your theatre break includes:

1 nights ensuite accommodation at the 4 star Hilton London Metropole,15 minutes walk from Oxford street! Bed & Breakfast included. Ticket to your choice of show Coach travel to and from the theatre & hotel! Free time in London on the Sunday until we

depart for home about 3pm.

Choose out of one of these fantastic shows! TOP HAT, CHARLIE & CHOCOLATE FACTORY OR

MAMMA MIA

8 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk 1110 www.50plusmagazine.co.ukwww.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Eastbourne is bursting with so many things to see and do. There are plenty of attractions and fun things to do for all ages. From watching pro-skaters stunts and tricks at Eastbourne Extreme to exploring the area’s history, discover museums and art galleries, relax and enjoy the views in our parks and gardens, sample the local produce from our vineyards and farmers markets, enjoy fun filled trips to the seaside or South Downs National Park, spend the day shopping, then soak up the local atmosphere in one of our many restaurants, wine bars or traditional pubs.

five GREAT resorts five GREAT hotels

1. Torquay - The Devonshire Hotel

2. Shanklin and the Isle of Wight - Daish’s Hotel

3. Bournemouth - Sands Hotel

4. Newquay - Barrowfield Hotel

5. Eastbourne - Claremont Hotel

In Torquay you’ll find a palm-lined promenade, seafront gardens, a lively harbour and a marina full of exotic yachts. The 73 room Devonshire Hotel, in its own grounds with an outdoor pool is just a few minutes away from Torquay harbour and town centre, shopping, entertainments and local beaches.

Shanklin is one of the most picturesque towns on the Isle of Wight, above an attractive promenade and sandy beach. The Old Town (where our hotel is situated) is full of pretty thatched cottages, pubs and tearooms. The 60 room Daish’s Hotel was built in the late 18th Century as the coaching inn for Shanklin. It is now an elegant hotel in its own extensive grounds, with children’s play area and an indoor pool.

Bournemouth is the perfect seaside resort, on the sunny south coast amid dramatic cliffs looking down on miles of golden, sandy beaches, with over 2,000 acres of superb parks and gardens. The 74 room Sands Hotel is situated in a side road, only two minutes from the West Cliff with its panoramic views over the bay. It is an ideal setting, within leisurely walking distance of the beach, all the major shops and gardens.

Newquay is the largest resort in Cornwall, with spectacular Atlantic beaches, as well as delightful gardens for tranquil strolls. The 80 room Barrowfield Hotel is ideally situated just 200 yards from the seafront and the magnificent Tolcarne Beach, close to the Town Centre and Zoo. Indoor heated pool, enclosed outdoor terrace and large dance floor.

HOLIDAYSGREAT VALUE SOUTH COASTSUMMER HOLIDAYS SINCE 1979

Daish’s have five hotels in top south coast resorts, Eastbourne, Newquay, Torquay, Bournemouth and Shanklin. Founded in 1979, Daish’s have been offering great value, year round holidays for over 30 years, by coach or own travel.

Daish’s holidays include half board accommodation, live entertainment every night and a range of optional excursions - all at great prices, with the option of return coach travel, or making your own way. We’d like to invite you to enjoy the great value Daish’s welcome too. Our 2013 holidays are selling well, with lots of coach holidays to all five hotels, and many more self drive dates.

Great value holidays from £99 to around £200 in summer!Daish’s holidays include return coach travel, half board hotel accommodation, with live entertainment every night - all at great prices. There are free places for children too.

Regular local coach departuresDaish’s have regular pickup points across the country. Daish’s Holidays include return travel with no changing of coaches, getting you to your hotel as soon as possible.

Lots of ChoiceDaish’s run a range of 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 day holidays - by coach or self drive. Optional excursions are available on arrival. There are themed breaks - “Great British and Irish Holidays” from January-March and “Tinsel and Turkey” in November and December, and great Christmas and NewYear holidays too.

Specialists in the “Over 50” market for over 30 yearsDaish’s was founded in 1979, and has offered great seaside holidays for the senior market ever since - though families are welcome too of course. There are single rooms at all hotels, with a supplement from just £10.

Live Entertainment 7 nights a week!Every single night we present a live act - offering the best in Comedy, Music and Dance! Each evening’s entertainment begins with Bingo, with great cash prizes to be won.There’s usually a quiz too - but there’s never a dull moment.

Why Daish’s Holidays?

£25booking!

For a 2013 Brochure Pack and your discount voucher CALL THE J-TEAM at Daish’s travel office

on 01803 201 432, & DAYS A WEEK.Email [email protected] or visit www.daishs.com -

please quote “50 Plus” when calling/emailing

Groups Welcome

Call the “J-TEAM” at Daish’s Holidays for your FREE BROCHURE PACK on 01803 201 432 or email [email protected] or visit daishs.com

When calling or emailing please quote: 50 PLUSfacebook.com/daishs

@daishs

DERBYSHIRE & HIGH PEAK 35.indd 10-11 26/06/2013 09:29

9www.50plusmagazine.co.uk 1110 www.50plusmagazine.co.ukwww.50plusmagazine.co.uk

Eastbourne is bursting with so many things to see and do. There are plenty of attractions and fun things to do for all ages. From watching pro-skaters stunts and tricks at Eastbourne Extreme to exploring the area’s history, discover museums and art galleries, relax and enjoy the views in our parks and gardens, sample the local produce from our vineyards and farmers markets, enjoy fun filled trips to the seaside or South Downs National Park, spend the day shopping, then soak up the local atmosphere in one of our many restaurants, wine bars or traditional pubs.

five GREAT resorts five GREAT hotels

1. Torquay - The Devonshire Hotel

2. Shanklin and the Isle of Wight - Daish’s Hotel

3. Bournemouth - Sands Hotel

4. Newquay - Barrowfield Hotel

5. Eastbourne - Claremont Hotel

In Torquay you’ll find a palm-lined promenade, seafront gardens, a lively harbour and a marina full of exotic yachts. The 73 room Devonshire Hotel, in its own grounds with an outdoor pool is just a few minutes away from Torquay harbour and town centre, shopping, entertainments and local beaches.

Shanklin is one of the most picturesque towns on the Isle of Wight, above an attractive promenade and sandy beach. The Old Town (where our hotel is situated) is full of pretty thatched cottages, pubs and tearooms. The 60 room Daish’s Hotel was built in the late 18th Century as the coaching inn for Shanklin. It is now an elegant hotel in its own extensive grounds, with children’s play area and an indoor pool.

Bournemouth is the perfect seaside resort, on the sunny south coast amid dramatic cliffs looking down on miles of golden, sandy beaches, with over 2,000 acres of superb parks and gardens. The 74 room Sands Hotel is situated in a side road, only two minutes from the West Cliff with its panoramic views over the bay. It is an ideal setting, within leisurely walking distance of the beach, all the major shops and gardens.

Newquay is the largest resort in Cornwall, with spectacular Atlantic beaches, as well as delightful gardens for tranquil strolls. The 80 room Barrowfield Hotel is ideally situated just 200 yards from the seafront and the magnificent Tolcarne Beach, close to the Town Centre and Zoo. Indoor heated pool, enclosed outdoor terrace and large dance floor.

HOLIDAYSGREAT VALUE SOUTH COASTSUMMER HOLIDAYS SINCE 1979

Daish’s have five hotels in top south coast resorts, Eastbourne, Newquay, Torquay, Bournemouth and Shanklin. Founded in 1979, Daish’s have been offering great value, year round holidays for over 30 years, by coach or own travel.

Daish’s holidays include half board accommodation, live entertainment every night and a range of optional excursions - all at great prices, with the option of return coach travel, or making your own way. We’d like to invite you to enjoy the great value Daish’s welcome too. Our 2013 holidays are selling well, with lots of coach holidays to all five hotels, and many more self drive dates.

Great value holidays from £99 to around £200 in summer!Daish’s holidays include return coach travel, half board hotel accommodation, with live entertainment every night - all at great prices. There are free places for children too.

Regular local coach departuresDaish’s have regular pickup points across the country. Daish’s Holidays include return travel with no changing of coaches, getting you to your hotel as soon as possible.

Lots of ChoiceDaish’s run a range of 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 day holidays - by coach or self drive. Optional excursions are available on arrival. There are themed breaks - “Great British and Irish Holidays” from January-March and “Tinsel and Turkey” in November and December, and great Christmas and NewYear holidays too.

Specialists in the “Over 50” market for over 30 yearsDaish’s was founded in 1979, and has offered great seaside holidays for the senior market ever since - though families are welcome too of course. There are single rooms at all hotels, with a supplement from just £10.

Live Entertainment 7 nights a week!Every single night we present a live act - offering the best in Comedy, Music and Dance! Each evening’s entertainment begins with Bingo, with great cash prizes to be won.There’s usually a quiz too - but there’s never a dull moment.

Why Daish’s Holidays?

£25booking!

For a 2013 Brochure Pack and your discount voucher CALL THE J-TEAM at Daish’s travel office

on 01803 201 432, & DAYS A WEEK.Email [email protected] or visit www.daishs.com -

please quote “50 Plus” when calling/emailing

Groups Welcome

Call the “J-TEAM” at Daish’s Holidays for your FREE BROCHURE PACK on 01803 201 432 or email [email protected] or visit daishs.com

When calling or emailing please quote: 50 PLUSfacebook.com/daishs

@daishs

DERBYSHIRE & HIGH PEAK 35.indd 10-11 26/06/2013 09:29

Palm trees swaying in the gentle trade winds of the Pacific Ocean, endless stretches of sandy coastline, volcanoes, rainforests and more – the Hawaiian Islands are the ultimate dream destination.

The journey to Hawaii is not to be underestimated – it is a long way. So when you finally get there you need to make the most of this incredible group of diverse and beautiful islands strung out like pearls in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. There are countless itineraries and combinations with each island offering a different holiday experience and its own individual charm.

Arriving into Honolulu on the island of Oahu immediately gives you a sense of anticipation. The warm air greets you as it wafts through the mainly open buildings and the atmosphere is laid back and relaxed. Honolulu is the centre of business and culture and the capital of Hawaii. It is a bustling city with a strong Polynesian influence and is home to museums, galleries and elegant public gardens all steeped in the history of the islands.

The world famous resort of Waikiki Beach is just a few miles along the coast. At first glance not quite the tranquil tropical resort you would expect but this is a town that welcomes a huge number of tourists each day. Modern skyscraper hotels front the pristine beach set against the magnificent backdrop of Diamond Head volcanic crater. At night Waikiki comes alive with Sunset Hula shows, street performers, lively bars and restaurants. A velvet breeze wafts in from the ocean, mixes with the soft sound of the Hawaiian guitar and beckons the crowds to linger amongst designer boutiques and street markets. As soon as dawn breaks the surfers take to the water to catch the waves that roll in throughout the year. Sit on the beach and be amazed by their prowess or take a lesson and have a go yourself, there are plenty of beach boys happy to give surfing classes and surfboards can be easily rented.

When it is time to move on to another island, a great contrast to Oahu is Maui, known as the Magic Isle. Although it appears at first glance to be flat and uninteresting, travel away from the airport and you will find the dormant volcano of Haleakala Crater with its lunar landscape, or take the scenic road to the town of Hana through rainforest and waterfalls. The picturesque town of Lahaina was once the heart of the Hawaiian Islands where the whaling ships docked. Today the town attracts the tourists with quaint shops, galleries and restaurants housed in the old wooden shop fronts that were once the

50 Plus Travel sponsored by

SAY ‘ALOHA’ TO HAWAIIBy Sally Dowling from Silver Travel Advisor

Kauai © (HTA/Tor Johnson)

10 www.50plusmagazine.co.uk

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

saloons and brothels of times gone by. Set along a pretty coastline with a dramatic mountainous backdrop and with spectacular sunsets over the small offshore island of Lana’i - the town is picture postcard perfect.

If it is adventure you are after then the island of Kuau’i beckons visitors with a host of exciting activities, watersports, 4x4 land tours, mountain tubing and zip line tours to name just a few. Take a helicopter tour to appreciate the awesome interior of Kaua’i. The imposing Waimea Canyon is more than 3,000 feet deep and known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’. The Waimea River flows through the canyon and is fed by cascading waterfalls swollen by the almost daily rainfall. When the sun shines through shimmering rainbows appear giving the area a truly magical feel. Hold onto your seat because the experienced pilots know how to get really up close and personal to some of the highest waterfalls and deepest valleys.

In common with the other islands, Kauai has its fair share of stunning beaches. Holiday makers flock to the eastern and western shores but only intrepid hikers or sailors can access the secluded hidden coves, nestling beneath the dramatic cliffs along the Na Pali Coast on the western side. With its lush, rainforest interior and above average rainfall Kaua’i is aptly named the Garden Isle and has been the setting for many famous movie locations over the years.

The largest island is confusingly named Hawaii – or Big Island. You could easily spend your entire holiday here as it has an amazing diversity in geography and climate. Take a drive around the island and you will pass through tropical rain forests, lava fields, volcanic mountains and rolling hills. At Kona on the west coast and you will be amazed by huge expanses of black lava stretching into the sea.

The area is famed for diving and snorkelling and a visit to Kealakekua State Park is a must. Further along the coast the land is dotted with coffee plantations, each producing the world famous Kona Coffee and most are happy to give tours to visitors and sell the freshly roasted beans. The active volcanoes for which the island is so well known can be explored at fairly close quarters from the Volcanoes National Park. Check current conditions with the park rangers at the Kilauea Visitor Centre where you can also pick up maps and guides to the area. The island capital is Hilo, situated along the crescent shaped Hilo Bay on the East Coast where frequent and heavy rainfall has created a tropical environment of lush valleys and gushing waterfalls. Hilo is a commercial centre but does have an attractive ‘old town’ area full of shops, galleries and restaurants as well as museums, parks a cultural centre and a great programme of seasonal festivals and events. It makes a great base for exploring the Volcanoes National Park and the beaches along the coast.

So pick one or pick ‘em all, whichever islands you choose to visit, I guarantee you will want to return to see the rest.

For more information on the Hawaiian Islands contact Hawaii Tourism Europe websitewww.gohawaii.com or call 44 (0)207 6446 127.

Hawaii Island © (HTA/Tor Johnson)

Maui © (HTA/Tor Johnson)

© (HTA/Tor Johnson)



Christian Guild have been welcoming guests for nearly 100 years and our commitment to helping you find the best break to suit you and your family has never changed. That’s why so many guests return year after year.

We have a unique collection of five hotels - all set in gorgeous grounds and of the highest standards. We strive to make sure that your stay is thoroughly relaxing in our superbly appointed hotels.

For those who prefer a more active holiday, we have used our extensive experience to produce a fantastic range of themed breaks.

Our themed breaks combine a range of activities for all ages and for individuals or families. So if you have been considering a new hobby or want to meet like-minded people during your stay, then our themed breaks are the ideal way of broadening your horizons.

For the perfect break ... and why not takethe grandchildren too!

Christian Guild hotels provide the very best in Christian hospitality in some of the most beautiful parts of England.

Our five superb hotels o�er a warm welcome and are perfect places to get away from it all.

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Abbot Hall HotelSouth Lakes, Cumbria

015395 [email protected]

Lindors CountryHouse HotelWye Valley


Sidholme HotelSidmouth, Devon


Treloyhan ManorHotelSt Ives, Cornwall


Willersley CastleHotelDerbyshire Dales


Christian Guild is at its best during the school summer holidays. Watch your children or grandchildren swim in our delightful pools or play on the beaches, discover new destinations together, then relax over a family meal and discuss all the things you can do tomorrow.

During the Summer breaks, you’ll have access to everything that Christian Guild has to offer - like our four heated indoor swimming pools, arts and crafts, recreational facilities and plenty of themed breaks - as well as the perfect location for the family to explore.

FAMILY DISCOUNTSWe want everyone to enjoy their holiday, and we know that your family holiday can be costly. That’s why we offer special discounts for families:

0-4 years: FREE 5-10 years: 75% off11-15 years: 50% off 16 & 17 years 25% off

18-21 in full-time education: 25% off if holiday takenwith parents or grandparents.

One child per adult. For rates for additional children please contact the hotels. The general rule is that children share with accompanying adults. However, it may be possible to allocate separate rooms for older children, subject to availability.

Head Office: Christian Guild, 2nd Floor, Building 10, Cromford Mills, Cromford, Derbyshire, DE4 3RQ.tel: 01629 826531 email: [email protected]



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LINDORS OFFERS:

l Crown Green Bowling - renowned the best in the areal 15m heated indoor swimming pool and separate children’s pooll Licensed restaurantl Fairtrade coffee shopl Wireless broadband accessl TVs & telephone in all bedroomsl Disabled access roomsl Tennis, croquet, putting & petanquel 5 self-catering lodges.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS:

l The Royal Forest of Deanl Tintern Abbeyl Taurus Crafts & Model Villagel Symonds Yat & the River Wyel Goodrich Castlel Clearwell Cavesl Raglan Castlel The Dean Forest Railway.

Whether you’re looking for a high quality hotel for a night, a weekend or longer, Christian Guild is ready to offer you a break to remember and you will receive 10% OFF your stay at any of our hotels when quoting 50 Plus Magazine.



to

Abbot Hall HotelSouth Lakes, Cumbria


Lindors CountryHouse HotelWye Valley


Sidholme HotelSidmouth, Devon


Treloyhan ManorHotelSt Ives, Cornwall


Willersley CastleHotelDerbyshire Dales


Lindors is a charming 19th century property situated in the Welsh borders between Monmouth and Chepstow. It lies approximately one mile on the Coleford side of Bigsweir Bridge.

The south front of the house looks down its own valley into the main body of the beautiful Wye Valley, with Offa’s Dyke beyond the wooded slopes of Cleddon and Trellech Hill.

Set in nine acres of beautiful wooded gardens, Lindors Country House Hotel is a majestic place to find peace and tranquillity.

The hotel offers exquisite gardens with waterfalls and pools. Inside, there are comfortable lounges and crackling log fires in winter.

You will enjoy fine dining during your stay at Lindors Country House Hotel, and well-appointed bedrooms that offer the modern amenities you’d expect at such a top-class hotel.

There are also five wonderful pine lodges in the grounds offering the choice of self-catering, or you can enjoy dinner in the hotel restaurant. It’s up to you to choose!

To view our holidays and a range of themed breaks visitwww.christianguild.co.uk or contact the hotel on 01594 530283

Lindors Country House Hotel

Enjoy luxury and fine diningplus 10% OFF your stay .....

nightclub hostess and a successful talent agent. She was one of three children – her sister Jackie is a successful novelist whose books have sold more than 400 million copies.

Joan was a very pretty child and grew up into an attractive dark-haired beauty. She had her first theatre appearance at the age of nine and obviously developed a taste for acting through her teenage years. She became a Rank starlet and appeared in a host of relatively forgettable films, occasional TV appearances and pin-up shoots but, to improve her budding career, she moved to Hollywood in the 1950s. Her first film role was in 1951 in B-movie “Lady Godiva Rides Again.”

For the next three decades, she became a Hollywood fixture, driving her signature pink Thunderbird and keeping the gossip columnists happy with a reported succession of high-profile liaisons with famous men including Dennis Hopper and Warren Beatty.

She impressed, however, in the films “The Stud” and “The Bitch” which were both adapted from sister Jackie’s

Joan Collins returned to the UK in April with her her sell-out show “One Night With Joan” and this stroll through the highlights of her life brings a touch of genuine glamour into our humdrum lives writes Angela Kelly.The British actress, writer and columnist who famously turned down Richard Burton and bested Joan Crawford may unbelievably now be 79 but - being Joan - she never misses an opportunity to show real Hollywood glitz at its best and most enduring. As she insists in her down-to-earth way: “I’ve often been accused of over-egging the pudding in the costume and make-up department, but that’s one of the illusions that form a part of what this person called Joan Collins is all about.”

To discover the real Joan Collins, though, it’s necessary to go back to her roots and trace her rise to fame and fortune. She was born in May, 1933 in London, to a former

The World according to Joan


best-selling novels. In 1978 she published her first memoir, “Past Imperfect” about her life – unsurprisingly, also a best-seller.

In 1981, she went for an audition for struggling primetime drama “Dynasty”, for a part that Sophia Loren had already turned down. Alexis Carrington Colby was the vicious, vengeful ex-wife of family patriarch Blake Carrington, played by John Forsythe. Joan got the part, and was absolutely brilliant in the role.

Ratings immediately started to rise. As the show’s creator Aaron Spelling insisted: “We didn’t write Joan Collins. She played Joan Collins. We wrote a character, but the character could have been played by 50 people and 49 of them would have failed. She made it work.”

In fact, she made it work so well that Alexis - with her seductive glamour, gorgeous clothes and make-up and great storylines - became the character with whom Joan has become enduringly associated. She was nominated six times for a Golden Globe before finally winning one in 1983.

“Dynasty” ended its run in 1989 but Joan appeared as Alexis in the 1991 mini-series “Dynasty: The Reunion.” The original series, though, remains warm and familiar in the minds of the public and there are regularly calls for its revival. Speaking on TV’s “Loose Women” programme just recently, British actress Stephanie Beacham - who also went into the series - said she and Joan had been talking about just such a revival, and regular TV watchers know it’s “never say never” when it comes to bringing back successful soaps.

Of course, much of Joan Collins’ fame has come from her life away from the film and TV cameras. She married her first husband, Irish actor Maxwell Reed, in 1952 and divorced him three years later. She married British actor Anthony Newley in 1963 and they had two children before she divorced him in 1970.

Joan was married for 11 years to Apple Records’ president Ron Kass, with whom she had daughter Katy. Her fourth marriage was to Swedish pop singer Peter Holm, which ended after just 13 months with a messy divorce. Then in 2003 she married her fifth husband, theatre company manager Percy Gibson, who is 32 years her junior. Here, finally, Joan seems to have found her soul-mate and the couple renewed their marriage vows in 2009.

She says that today’s “metrosexual-looking” actors don’t compare with the stars of yesteryear although she believes that Johnny Depp, Leonardo DiCaprio and Jude Law are “wonderful actors.” Joan makes the exception “on the macho front” for George Clooney and she also likes Bradley Cooper and Robert Downey Jr. Her all-time sexiest star, though, is Marlon Brando – “unforgettable” is her verdict.

After “Dynasty” helped give Joan the highest profile of her career, she continued to act and write both romance novels and self-help beauty and lifestyle books. She’s become involved in a variety of charity work, mostly linked to children with disabilities and aiding breast cancer

research, and remains a true celebrity in a sea of passing wannabes.

She has always looked after her figure and continues to be as glamorous as ever, taking her own advice on everything from eating meals from a smaller plate to keep her weight down to avoiding sunshine on her face to protect her looks. Her outspoken and witty pronouncements on various subjects have helped keep her in the public eye and she has had a variety of regular opinion columns in newspapers and magazines.

In her 2011 book “The World According to Joan”, she admits that she has “always been extremely frank, perhaps too much so. Often friends say to me sarcastically ‘Oh why don’t you say what you mean, Joanie!’ Well, I’m afraid I usually do which is why I have been called opinionated, stubborn, obdurate, headstrong, prejudiced and politically incorrect.

“Perhaps I am, but I have now reached an age and a stage when I basically do what I like as much as I can, without trying to hurt anyone.”

While being Joan Collins is much about a life lived in the spotlight, it’s plain that not only is she a clever actress and a genuine icon but that she’s discovered the secret of longevity when it comes to engaging with the public.

And audiences from Manchester’s Lowry to London’s Leicester Square Theatre discovered that “One Night With Joan” is also a unique and memorable experience.

For more information on Joan Collins’ go to www.joancollins.net

INTERVIEW



MUSHROOM, FETA AND TOMATO BAKED PEPPERS

It’s always important for food to look good, whether you’re dieting or not, and these peppers are a delight to the eye as well

as the tastebuds. A great vegetarian recipe, this has lots of strong flavours that come together in a beautifully colouful

and well-balanced dish.

SERVES 2 4 sun-dried tomato pieces in oil, drained well

2 tsp sunflower oil 175g chestnut mushrooms, wiped and diced

20g blanched hazelnuts, roughly chopped 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed

50g dry white breadcrumbs 1/2 small bunch of parsley, leaves finely chopped

1 tsp dried chilli flakes 100g feta or soft goat’s cheese, drained

2 smallish peppers, red or yellow freshly ground black pepper

HOW TO LOVE FOOD AND LOSE WEIGHT

delicioussummer dishes

Preheat the oven to 220°C/Fan 200°C/Gas 7. Roughly chop the sun-dried tomatoes. Heat the oil in a large frying pan and stir-fry the mushrooms over a high heat for 4 minutes.

Add the roughly chopped hazelnuts and fry for a further minute until the nuts are lightly toasted. Season with a good grind of black pepper and remove from the heat.

Stir in the tomatoes, garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley and chilli flakes until thoroughly combined. Break the cheese into small chunks and toss them through the stuffing lightly. Cut the peppers in half from top to bottom and carefully remove the seeds and membrane.

Place the peppers in a small foil-lined roasting tin, cut side up, and fill each half with the mushroom and feta stuffing. Cover the surface of the stuffing with a small piece of foil. Bake for 35 minutes until tender, removing the foil for the last 10 minutes of the cooking time. Serve warm with a lightly dressed mixed salad.

401 calories per portion


MAKES 8 KEBABS

700g lean lamb leg (or leg steaks)

2 small yellow peppers

2 small red peppers

2 small red onions

150m1 low-fat natural yoghurt

1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed

1 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint or 1 tsp mint sauce

6 pitta breads

1 romaine lettuce heart, shredded

1 medium carrot, finely grated

3 ripe vine tomatoes, sliced

15cm piece of cucumber, thinly sliced

flaked sea salt

freshly ground black pepper

lemon wedges and hot chilli sauce, to serve

Marinade

2 tsp cumin seeds

2 tsp coriander seeds

1 tsp fennel seeds

1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

finely grated zest and juice of 1 unwaxed lemon

1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp fine sea salt

freshly ground black pepper

LEMONY LAMB KEBABSThere’s nothing better than the scent of lemony, herby lamb cooking on the barbecue. It’s a healthy way of cooking too, as much of the fat drips away. We like to eat these kebabs tucked into warm pitta bread, but you can also enjoy them with just a side salad or some vegetables.

To make the marinade, put the cumin, coriander and fennel seeds in a pestle and mortar and pound to a coarse powder. You can use 11/2 teaspoon each of ground cumin and coriander if you prefer, but the flavour won’t be quite as good as freshly ground spices. Add the thyme leaves and crush them into the spices for a few seconds.

Tip the spices and thyme into a large non-metallic bowl and stir in the lemon zest and juice, garlic, oil, salt and lots of black pepper.

Trim as much fat as possible off the lamb, then cut the meat into rough 3cm chunks — you should have about 40 chunks. Add the lamb to the marinade and toss until well coated. Cover with cling film and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking.

While the lamb is marinating, prepare the vegetables for the kebabs. Deseed the peppers and cut them into 3cm chunks. Cut each onion into 8 wedges with the root intact.

Remove the lamb from the fridge and thread the meat on to 8 metal skewers — these should be about 25cm long — alternating with the pieces of pepper and onion. Season with a little more salt and pepper.

Cook over a hot barbecue or under a preheated hot grill (close to the element) for 6-8 minutes. Turn once or twice until the lamb and vegetables are lightly charred — the meat should be pink in the middle. Mix the yoghurt, garlic and chopped mint or mint sauce together in a small bowl to make the yoghurt sauce.

Warm the pitta bread on the barbecue, in the toaster or under a grill and carefully cut down one side with a sharp knife. Pull the bread open and stuff with shredded lettuce leaves, grated carrot, tomatoes and cucumber. Slide the meat and vegetables off the skewers and into the pittas using a fork. Drizzle a little of the minty yoghurt sauce and serve with some chilli sauce and lemon wedges too if you fancy.

203 calories per portion 381 calories per portion (with pitta)

FALCON INNDating back to 1554 The Falcon is a small, select hotel and restaurant situated in the centre of the beautiful Cotswold village of Painswick.

Overlooking the historic village church and its famous 99 clipped yew trees, the Falcon hotel offers great hospitality with a warm welcome.

In a hilltop setting, surrounded by stunning Cotswold countryside, the charming village of Painswick is an historic wool town which boasts a fine array of listed buildings sitting in narrow, winding streets.

Our 12 individually styled bedrooms provide comfortable accommodation and our welcoming restaurant and bar offer delicious home cooked food and a wide selection of drinks, wines and real ales.

Whether you are looking for a hotel in the Cotswolds for a well deserved break, a function venue for a special occasion, a base for visiting Cheltenham Races or just somewhere to pop in for a delicious, freshly prepared meal – you are assured of a warm welcome at The Falcon Hotel.

We are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner Monday to Sunday inclusive.

EGYPT MILLSet in charming surroundings on the riverside, 16th Century Egypt Mill with its 32 delightful bedrooms and popular restaurant, is a truly unique place. Renowned for the quality of its food, there are delights on the menu to tempt everyone. From a quick bite at lunchtime to a laidback evening with friends, Egypt Mill’s a great place to be, whatever time you decide to visit.

ALL-DAY £6.50 LUNCH Choose any dish from the normal Daytime Menu for just £6.50 (normally up to around £12.50). After your £6.50 lunch, there’s an option of a delicious dessert for just £3.50. Mon to Fri, 12 noon - 6.00pm (incl. Bank Holidays).

A LA CARTE & PRIX FIXE DINNER MENUS The first-class evening A La Carte Menu is available Monday to Saturday from 6.00pm - 9.30pm. They also offer a Prix Fixe selection of dishes from this menu to serve you great food at a very palatable price. 2-courses £12.50 3-courses £14.75 (Mon to Thur, 6.00pm-9.00pm)

SUNDAY LUNCH HAS NEVER BEEN SO GOOD Succulent joints of British, locally-sourced Roast Beef, Roast Leg of Pork, Roast Leg of Lamb and Free-Range Chicken.Every Sunday 12 noon until 9.00pm

TEL: 01452 814222WWW.FALCONPAINSWICK.CO.UK NEW STREET, PAINSWICK, GL6 6UN

T: 01453 833449WWW.EGYPTMILL.COM NAILSWORTH, GLOUCESTERSHIRE GL6 OAE

EATING OUT


THE EDGEMOOR INNApproximately half way between Stroud and Gloucester, The Edgemoor Inn overlooks the beautiful, picturesque Painswick Valley and the village of Painswick, a quintessential English village known as ‘The Queen of the Cotswolds’.

There are over 100 listed buildings in the village, which is a total conservation area.

It has a rich history with a particularly colourful period during the Civil War when the Roundheads took refuge in the parish church of St.Mary, which dates from the eleventh century.

The late 19th century Inn, constructed from Cotswold stone, has picture style windows and is well known for its pretty panoramic views. Our property boasts an extensive terraced patio overlooking Painswick & surrounding countryside.

Edgemoor Inn sources as much fresh meat, fish & vegetables from local suppliers.

An extensive range of home cooked meals and daily specials are served each day lunchtime and evening. Vegetarian menus are always available. We serve the finest selection of local real ales from Uley, Wickwar and Stroud.

The Edgemoor Inn offers the very best in traditional Cotswold pub and restaurant dining - a warm welcome in delightful surroundings with well-presented home-cooked food. This is a combination that’s hard to beat.

TEL: 01452 813576WWW.EDGEMOOR-INN.COMEDGE, NEAR STROUD, GLOUCESTERSHIRE GL6 6ND

Healthy Food Tips For Over 50s1. Chili peppers may be small but are mighty in terms of health

benefits. They contain capsaicin, an analgesic compound which helps with a variety of health issues including pain, cancers and high cholesterol. Add a bit of spice to your suppers and reap the rewards.

2. Adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, cabbage and brussels sprouts to your diet can have great brain health benefits. They all contain antioxidants which help protect the brain.

3. Make sure your diet contains plenty of calcium which can help prevent osteoporosis. If you’re over 50 you need 1,200 mg of calcium each day. Good sources of calcium include milk, cheese, yoghurt, almonds and pulses. Try and have three servings of calcium rich foods or drinks each day.

4. Yoghurt is not only a great source of calcium, but is also beneficial in maintaining a healthy gut. Your body needs to have a healthy amount of ‘good’ bacteria, so look out for probiotic yoghurt which contains those precious living organisms.

5. Turmeric contains curcumin which has anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric has been used as a cleanser for thousands of years and is believed to help relieve pain and prevent the build of up amyloid beta plaque which is a major cause of Alzheimer’s. Turmeric is found in many curries and other Asian dishes.

6. Fish is a great source of omega-3 fats which are important for brain function. Having a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids has been linked to improved memory and preventing the build up of cholesterol. It can also lover the risks of dementia, stroke and age related macular degeneration. Try and eat two fish dishes per week.

7. Other types of spices also provide great health benefits. Cinnamon is anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory, and may help boost brain function and control blood sugar levels. Cumin is rich in iron and can aid digestion. Coriander has anti-inflammatory properties and can help lower cholesterol. So reach for your spice rack when you cook and pack these health benefits into your meals.

8. Strawberries are not only delicious, but each serving contains lots of vitamin C which could help ward off wrinkles and age related dry skin. Treat yourself to some strawberries and cream for your vitamin C and calcium needs all at once!

9. Ginger has lots of anti-inflammatory properties which can be useful in fighting heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s. It is also high in antioxidants which help fight other diseases, and the gingerol in it is commonly used as a digestive aid. Ginger can add delicious flavour and heat to all kinds of dishes.

10. Tofu and other soy foods can help preserve the skin firming protein collagen as they are rich in the compounds ‘isoflavones’. Try adding some tofu to your diet and your skin may stay smoother for longer.


Are you looking for a new challenge?Are you a confident public speaker?Could you become a Volunteer Speaker for World Child Cancer and be a voice for children with cancer around the world?

Registered UK charity no. 1120321

Interested?For more information contact Lydia [email protected] on 020 3176 7892 or visit www.worldchildcancer.org

Speak Up!

Our life expectancy has increased. It’s official. Research has shown that the average man of sixty-five today can expect to live to at least eighty-one, and a woman can expect to live beyond 84. Further research has shown that more than any other factor, the level of activity people maintain during their retirement is a key factor in their happiness and continuing good health during their retirement years.

Of course it’s good to take a special holiday on retirement, and because we have better health for longer, today’s retirees can enjoy their newfound leisure to the full. And of course it’s wonderful to be able to pursue your own special hobbies and interests, but looking beyond that, what about all those skills you developed during your working years. The teachers, the doctors, the cooks, the nurses, the plumbers and electricians. Will all that expertise now be put on the back burner, or can you continue to use them in a voluntary capacity, and help the broader community in the process.

Everyone has something to offer as a volunteer, with a valuable contribution to make. Many of my retired friends have continued to use their skills. One helps in a charity shop, an ex teacher sits on the school’s governing body; a former doctor helps at a hospice; a former cook takes an active role in the local hospital’s snack bar, where relatives of patients take a break and much needed refreshment, and yet another friend, who maintains she has no skills whatever, walks the dog for an elderly neighbour. This friend is a wonderful listener, and not only does she give the beloved pet the exercise it needs, she provides companionship to a lonely old lady. One single factor binds these people together. The feeling that life has been good to them, and they need to put something back.

If volunteering for a good cause is something you would consider then World Child Cancer is one of many charities looking for experienced people to help them with their work. The charity is devoted to helping children with cancer around the world and they are launching a Volunteer’s Speakers Network, seeking confident public speakers to join them, delivering talks about the work of the charity in their local area and giving a voice to children suffering with cancer around the world.

And these children do need a voice – whilst in the UK survival rates for child cancers are around 80%, in some developing countries they can be as low as 10%. It is estimated that at least 100,000 children die unnecessarily each year from curable cancers because of a lack of diagnosis and basic treatment. Worse still is the fact that many of these children are dying without effective pain relief.

If you were a confident speaker in your professional life (or even if you just have the gift of the gab!) and feel passionately about helping children with cancer around the world, World Child Cancer would love to hear from you. By volunteering as little as a few hours a month, you could spread the message of the charity in your local area and help to change the chances for children with cancer across the world.

Are you interested in becoming a Volunteer Speaker? This role is great opportunity for anybody looking to re-invest their skills, undergo a new challenge and make a difference.

You do not need to be an expert in public speaking: training and resources will be provided. For more information please contact Lydia on 020 3176 7892 or [email protected] or visit www.worldchildcancer.org.

So whether you’re a confident speaker and could help World Child Cancer, or are a doctor, a chef or a great listener, there are people out there who could benefit from your skills. Make their day, enrich your life and get that feel-good factor you only get when you’re helping others. It only takes a phone call, and you could make all the difference.

Would you help make a difference?

DISCOVER THE FREEDOM RENTING IN RETIREMENT CAN BRING…

For more information, please visit www.girlings.co.uk or contact the lettings team on 0800 525 184.

Choosing the ideal retirement location can be challenging, particularly when trying to find that perfect property in an interesting location, which also offers long-term security, comfortable living and friendly neighbours. Gloucestershire is an attractive location for property buyers and is a hotspot for a growing number of retired people deciding to move against the grain of home ownership and soak up the benefits of renting in retirement.

If you love Gloucestershire, then Cheltenham and Gloucester make great choices for the discerning retiree. Cheltenham is known as the shopping centre of the Cotswolds, with many of its shops London based and offering a wide variety of goods. Gloucester has a unique history, from its Roman foundations to its Victorian docklands and is a multicultural city that combines historic architecture with a unique blend of visitor attractions, festivals and entertainment. Both offer an eclectic mix which is sure to please the majority of people.

Our properties are situated within Homespa House, Homespring House and Mercian Court in Cheltenham and Castlemeads Court and Sovereign Court in Gloucester. A variety of social activities give residents plenty of options to keep busy, with coffee mornings and afternoon tea events taking place within most developments.

Mr & Mrs Honour, Girlings’ residents commented:

“Renting in retirement has given us greater financial freedom and the flexibility to relocate. We have saved so much in terms of moving costs. We sold our house and we have retained that capital which has given us an investment for the future. We are now committed to renting and we love the fact that we have an assured tenancy so we essentially have the same security as homeowners.”

The majority of retirement developments feature a communal residents’ lounge in which residents are welcome to socialise and relax; communal laundry and a guest suite for visitors’ use. The residents’ lounge and the guest suite can be used as an extension to a residents’ home to entertain guests, offering both companionship and independence.

An added benefit for older renters is that Girlings lets the majority of its properties out on a life-long (assured) tenancy, which allows the tenant to stay in the property for as long as they wish.

Girlings co-owner and CEO, Peter Girling said: “A life-long (assured) tenancy offers great security and long-term peace of mind. In the private rental sector, it is common for properties to be let on an assured shorthold tenancy basis

which enables the landlord to regain possession of the property after the initial agreed fixed term.

Renting on a life-long tenancy basis offers the same security of tenure as most social housing providers, only without the associated waiting lists. What’s more, service charges and maintenance are included in the monthly payments.”

0800 525 184 www.girlings.co.uk

Peace of Mind

Independence

Flexibility

Choice

55+? Did you know you can rent private retirement property on a Life Long Tenancy which gives you the right to remain living in the property for as long as you wish, with service charges and maintenance included in the rent?

Discover the freedom renting in retirement can bring

“Without doubt the best property decision we have made!”



The services we can offer include:Advice & InformationOur staff and volunteers are trained to provide free, confidential and independent advice and information on a wide variety of issues. If we can’t provide the help you need we can point you in the right direction and we can help with form filling for benefits and allowances claims.

Home from HospitalWe provide short term social, practical and moral support for adults who have recently come out of hospital who live within Gloucestershire and have a Gloucestershire GP.

Clean Sweep PlusThis paid-for service provides help with housework and other everyday jobs to enable older people to continue living independently at home. Help may include escorted shopping trips, meal preparation and laundry.

ChoirsWe have three choirs for older people, based in Gloucester, Cheltenham and Stroud, open to all over 50s and with an emphasis on the pleasures and benefits of singing.

The services we can offer you in Blackburn with Darwen are:Advice & Information• Through offices in Blackburn and

Darwen we offer free, confidential and independent advice on a range of issues including benefits and money, care, housing and much more. A variety of free factsheets and leaflets are also available.

• Our Outreach Advice service provides home visits and advice sessions in community venues.

• The Money Advice Service offers free information sessions on a range of financial issues such as budgeting; retirement and pensions; credit and borrowing; tax; and savings and investments.

Ageing Well Project• This project provides a range of

activities at community venues throughout the Borough. Currently these include beauty treatments, Tai Chi, gentle exercise, gym sessions, walks, swimming groups, Wii sessions, 10 pin bowling and dancing.

• We provide basic computer tuition, Facebook and mobile phone sessions, and a loan of Nintendo DS Brain Training equipment is available.

Befriending Service• The Caring Neighbourhood Scheme

provides a voluntary visitor or ‘phonelink’ on a weekly basis to people who are housebound and socially isolated.

Day Care Centres• Our two day care centres provide

services for older people who are physically and/or mentally frail.

• We provide transport to and from the centres, a hot lunch, bathing, personal care, plus the opportunity to participate in a range of therapeutic and social activities.

Charity Shop• Our shop on Market Street in Darwen

sells a large range of quality donated clothes, accessories, small electrical and other household items, CDs, DVDs, books and other goods.

• Donations are always welcome and collection can be arranged.

For further information about any of our services or activities you can contact us at:4 King Street, Blackburn BB2 2DH 01254 266620Darwen Office, Town Hall, Croft Street, Darwen BB3 1BQ 01254 [email protected]

Registered charity number 1143809. IDBB2316 01/13

How you can help usWe need to raise all our own funds in order to continue our work providing services to local people and their carers. You could help us in a variety of ways.Donations – we are always grateful for cash donations, no matter how small. Every penny counts.

Legacies – everyone who remembers us in their Will is ensuring that at some time in the future older people will get the help they need.

Donations in lieu of flowers – in memory of a loved one, these have a long lasting effect.

Charity shop – profit from our shop provides a vital source of income. Every customer and donation helps.

Trading products – any profits go directly to support our charitable activities.

Time – we are always in need of volunteers who give their time to help us.

Over 50? Your local charity – here to help youAge UK Blackburn with Darwen remains a local, independent charity providing a range of services to local older people.

Over 50? Your local charity – here to help youAge UK Gloucestershire is a local, independent charity providing a range of services to older people in the county. We also campaign on, and raise awareness of, issues affecting older people.

Can you help us?

We depend on the kindness of volunteers to delivery many of our services and are always looking for more help. Volunteering is rewarding and can also be a great way to meet different people and learn new skills.

Donations, shoppers and volunteers are always welcome at the recently opened Age UK Gloucestershire shop in Gloucester’s Barton Street, just a couple of minutes walk from GL1 Leisure.

For more information on services and volunteering opportunities please contact

Age UK Gloucestershire on01452 422660 [email protected] visit our websitewww.ageukgloucestershire.org.uk.

The Magic Mouse service at Age UK Gloucestershire offers 1:1 computer support for the over 50s.We work with complete beginners or those wanting to improve skills. Sessions are held inGloucester and Cheltenham or we can come out to you at home. If you do not have a computerwe offer a laptop lending scheme.

Have you recently bought an iPad and wondering what to do with it? Magic Mouse will be running iPad courses for beginners in July and October.

Not sure about computers and using the internet? Why not book in for a free taster session and to see what it’s all about.

For more information call Age UK Gloucestershire on 01452 422660.

Computer Confidencefor the over 50s


Gloucestershire

We offer high quality day support enabling people to remain in their own homes and offering important respite for relatives and carers.

A varied daily programme of activities includes a chance to stimulate the mind, such as quizzes and games, discussions about current affairs, reminiscence, music

appreciation and outings.

For those who enjoy being creative there are opportunities for painting, cookery and crafts. There are also more active pursuits such as gardening and exercise.

We also offer wellbeing activities such as chiropody, hairdressing and bathing.

We provide plenty of opportunity for those who just want to talk with others, make friends or enjoy some companionship.

Lunch is an important feature of the day and we provide a varied, freshly cooked, two-course lunch menu prepared in our own kitchens and served in our manor cafe by the care team. Diabetic, vegetarian and other diets are also catered for.

Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire

Manor CentreDaytime support services for older people

Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire

l Transport to and from the centre in our catchment areal Two course lunch prepared by our chef and his team - all diets catered forl Wide range of activities to suit all abilities, which take place in separate activity rooms in small groupsl Care team specially trained to look after the needs of older people and those living with demential Hairdressing salon, chiropody and bathing availablel Spacious gardens with raised beds and patio areal Full and half days available

162 Barnwood Road, Gloucester GL4 3JXt: 01452 616173

e: [email protected]

Taking care of home insurance

Pop in for a quote at:Age UK GloucestershireBleak House26 Station RoadGloucesterGL1 1EW

Age UK Home Insurance is provided by Ageas Insurance Limited.93% of the time, Age UK Home Insurance (contents only) is cheaper than the average (median) competing quotes obtained from leading home insurers and brokers for contents cover up to £60,000. Source: Independent research conducted by Premium Research –February 2013. Full details are available online at www.ageuk.org.uk/insuranceterms *If you call the 0800 number and your local office is not available, your call will be answered by Age UK Enterprises or Ageas. Age UK Enterprises Limited is a commercial services arm of Age UK (registered charity number 1128267) and donates its net profits to Age UK. Age UK is a registered trademark. The use of the name and logo ‘Age UK’ is done so under licence agreement between Age UK and Age UK Enterprises Limited. Promoter: Age UK Enterprises Limited. Tavis House, 1–6 Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9NA. H3816V1MAR13 KE053537_13

You can also call your local Age UK office:

0800 032 0438 *www.ageukinsurance.com

93% of over 50s could save money on home contents insurance

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Over 50? 4 out of 5 could save money on home contents insurance








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Age UK Home Insurance is provided by Ageas Insurance Limited.93% of the time, Age UK Home Insurance (contents only) is cheaper than the average (median) competing quotes obtained from leading home insurers and brokers for contents cover up yo £60,000. Source: Independent research conducted by Premium Research - February 2013.Full details are available online at www.ageuk.org.uk/insuranceterms*If you call the 0800 number and your local office is not available, your call be answered by Age UK Enterprises or Ageas. Age UK Enterprises Ltd is a commercial services arm of Age UK (registered charity number 1128267) and donates its net profits to Age UK. Age UK is a registered trademark. The use of the name and logo ‘Age UK’ is done so under licence agreement between Age UK and Age UK Enterprises Limited. Promoter: Age UK Enterprises Ltd.Tavis House, 1-6 Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9NA.

H3816V1MAR13 KEO53537_13

OUT & ABOUT

Summer Hoilday Fun at Chedworth Roman Villa From Saturday 27 July until Sunday 1 SeptemberChedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, Nr. Cheltenham, GL54 3LJ

Tremendous family fun.

Hands on activities. Lots to do and see.

Time: 10am - 5pmTickets: Adult £9.70 Gift Aid (£8.80 standard); Child £4.85 Gift Aid (£4.40 standard); Family £24.25 Gift Aid (£22 standard). National Trust members free.

Call : 01242 890256

Tudor Fun Day at Sudeley Castle 25 AugustSudeley Castle, Winchcombe, GL54 5JD

The terrible royal Tudors comes to life with a real Henry VIII and his merry wives.

Enjoy archery, falconry display, minstrels and circus skills in this special day for children. There is also an interactive nature trail and an adventure playground with a fort complete with zip wire, slide and towers.

Time: 10.30am-4.30pmTickets: Included in the general ticket price. Family ticket is £35 (2 adults and 3 children).

Call : 01242 60424

Moreton in Marsh Show 7th SeptemberThe 2013 Moreton Show - Saturday 7th September - is going to be a wonderful event for all the family and one we’re sure you won’t want to miss, so round up all your friends and family and come along on Saturday 7th September to enjoy a true Cotswold countryside event like no other.

You’ll quickly discover there’s far more to the Moreton Show than you imagined.

The Moreton Show is a traditional one day Agricultural and Horse Show which is held on the first Saturday in September each year. It is one of the largest one-day agricultural shows in the UK and attracts over 20,000 visitors each year.

The Show is held in a parkland setting with no permanent buildings, so is built up in the traditional way with marquees and hurdle pens giving a true country show atmosphere.

Call : 0870 877 7409

Afternoon Tea DanceSun 11th August@ Cheltenham Town HallJoin us for an afternoon of strict temp dancing, conversation and of course tea and biscuits

Tickets a £6.50 in advance, £7 on the door (space permitting).

Tickets Hotline: 0844 576 2210

The Masked BallSun 11th August 2:00pm@ Cheltenham Town Hall Dance from behind a mask in opulent surroundings to music from Ross Mitchell Sound & Singers with cabaret from the fantastic Richard Still & Morgan Hemphill. James & Joanna Whitehead host an evening of beautiful ballroom and sequence in the main hall. (Mask not included).

Tickets:£20.


The Pirates of the River Chelt@ Skillicorne Gardens Sun 25th AugustPreston the pirate is young, fearless and desperate to get out of town, it just so happens that Captain Cannon and his crew need a new recruit. Together they brave the River Chelt and battle the dastardly Captain Piranha in a race to find the Gloucestershire treasure. Three actors play multiple roles in this family fun, swashbuckling adventure of disguise and discovery.


Tickets: £5 Adults, £2.50 Children (Free admission under 5s) Please reserve in advance via www.greycatproductions.co.uk

Family Theatre

This is an open air performance (weather permitting) and seating is unreserved in Skillicorne Gardens. Please arrive early to make the most of the wide selection of delicious food and drink on offer at the Garden Bar. Tickets will be available on the door.


Steam and Real Ale Weekend at GWR 14 - 15 SeptemberGloucester Warwickshire Railway,The Railway, Toddington,Glos. GL54 5DT

A GWR favourite!

The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, and the North Cotswold branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) presents the magical combination of traditional beers and traditional trains.

Tickets: All day rover ticket: adult £14, senior £14, child £6 (5-15), family £38 (2 adults and up to 3 children).Booking fees of £1 per ticket (£3 for family) applies to online ticket purchase.

Call : 01242 62140

Cheltenham Triathlon8 SeptemberSandford Parks Lido, Keynsham Road, Cheltenham.

The purpose of the morning is to raise funds for LINC (Leukaemia Intensive Chemotherapy) and Sandford Lido Limited.

This is a fun event open to all abilities of competitors, over the age of 17 who enjoy a personal or team challenge. The swim is undertaken in the Lido’s 50 metre outdoor swimming pool (10 lengths). The run and cycle are around Cheltenham and the picturesque Cotswold hills.

The distances are:l Swim 500ml Cycle 15kml Run 2.7km

Time: start 10am. Tickets: £30 entry

Call: 01242 524430

The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival 2013 4 - 13 October The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival returns in a celebration of award-winning writers, world-renowned thinkers and international star names.

Tickets can be booked in person at Cheltenham Town Hall Box Office, by phone.



Paying for CareWhen suddenly faced with trying to ascertain the best way of funding one’s own or a relative’s care fees, initially it might seem quite daunting. Here, care fees planning expert, Neil Gayler, outlines two situations where specialist advice was invaluable.

Sally’s storyLet’s start with Sally, who had a stroke just after her 85th birthday. She moved from her own house to hospital and then to a residential care home with fees of £35,200 a year. Like many widows, she had modest savings in a building society account, State Attendance Allowance and a small pension. But she wondered just how long her savings could last and was worried that her life savings were unlikely to be left to her family. She wondered how long it would take for her money to run out. After that, she would be forced to rely on State Benefits.

Sally’s assetsFor the first 12 weeks, Sally’s home was disregarded from the means test. Because her savings were smaller than the lower means test threshold, her local authority contributed towards her care home fees. After 12 weeks, this contribution stopped so Sally started to draw on her savings to meet the full cost. Next, her house was sold. The sale proceeds, together with her remaining savings totalled £190,000. By taking her combined income from her private pension, State Pension and Attendance Allowance, it left care home fees of £380 a week to be found from her savings. At that rate, her savings would be completely exhausted in about seven years.

What Sally wantedLike many older people, Sally’s financial independence was very important to her. She didn’t want to live off State benefits and have the quality of her care dictated to her. But she was also worried that her limited financial resources would

run out. In addition, she was understandably keen to leave a small inheritance to her daughter and grandchildren. At first sight, her personal and financial dilemma looked impossible to solve.

How Sally’s needs were metSally’s Financial Adviser recommended the following course of action:

Step 1: - Buy an Immediate Lifetime Care Plan. £85,102 of her capital – from the sale of her house and her savings – was used to buy an Immediate Lifetime Care Plan to meet the £380 a week shortfall in care fees.

Step 2: - Take care of inflation. Payments from the plan were arranged to increase each year in line with the Retail Prices Index.

Step 3: - Allow access to some capital. £4,898 was kept on deposit for immediate access.

Step 4: - Leave a legacy. The remaining £100,000 was invested for capital growth to fund the legacies she wished to leave her family.

The care costs were met by Sally’s State Attendance Allowance, Registered Nursing Care Contribution, pension income and the payments from her care plan. Sally paid no income tax because her pensions were set against her personal allowance. The State Attendance Allowance is currently tax free and payments from the Immediate Lifetime Care Plan were tax free because they were paid to a registered care provider. The Registered Nursing Care Contribution was paid directly to the care home. The financial plan addressed the principal concerns that Sally had. It ensured that a proportion of the care fees would be met for the rest of her life, and would allow for a legacy for her family.

Please note that depending on your circumstances it may not be possible to meet all of your needs, therefore the desire to leave a legacy and pay for your cost of care may not be fulfilled.

Harry’s storyHarry, 79, had substantial financial assets and a comfortable lifestyle. He enjoyed a round of golf and was fiercely independent until a stroke put him in hospital for several months. Fortunately, he made a partial recovery but still required 24 hour care. Harry wanted to return home, even though the domiciliary care fees would be far greater than a good quality care home.

Harry’s assetsHarry received a good level of income from his occupational and State pensions – about £17,800 a year net of tax. This he supplemented with an income of at least £4,500 a year from his savings and investments. These consisted of a share portfolio, Individual Savings Account and an Investment Bond – worth around £150,000 combined with deposits of £80,000 in a combination of tax-free National Savings issues and a building society account. His home’s market value was £550,000, making total assets of £780,000. Harry currently has an Inheritance Tax liability for all of his assets above the nil rate band. Despite some help from Harry’s family, the long term care services together with his domestic expenses cost £1,100 a week. At first sight, you’d think that Harry was in a good position to afford his care fees. But based on his assets – excluding his home – his money would run out in about six years.



If you are contemplating placing a relative or friend in a care home (or organising their care in their own home), you are probably feeling emotionally drained right now. The process of finding a suitable care provider and sorting through the legislation, not to mention helping them to fundamentally change and come to terms with the major changes to their lifestyle, can be extremely difficult.

Add to this confusion, stress and guilt and it is not surprising that many people feel somewhat overwhelmed and worried at a time like this. There are many financial advisers in the country but only a handful in any one region with the specialist skills and knowledge to be able to guide you through the care fees planning maze

SYMPONIA [Greek. adjective: compassion]

Symponia has the answer — our adviser members are all suitably experienced and appropriately qualified. We are therefore able to provide a unique concept within the field of care fees planning which, in turn, gives you and your family truly independent financial advice at a time when you most need it .

Care Fees Planning advice; when and where you need it from your local specialist Neil Gayler

Neil Gayler is your local Symponia member for Gloucestershire. For a confidential initial consultation (without any cost or obligation to you), call him on 01242 538 383

What Harry wantedHarry simply wanted to live at home for the rest of his life. But what would happen if his money ran out? Harry was concerned about this, but also wanted to address any tax liabilities. He urgently needed a plan to make his assets work for him, rather than the taxman. He also wanted to be in a position to leave a legacy to his family, rather than HM Treasury. Reorganising Harry’s affairs would entail a certain amount of Inheritance Tax planning, this is a very complex area and it is very important that you seek specialised advice.

How Harry’sneeds were met

Harry’s Financial Adviser recommended the following course of action:

Step 1:- Plan how to cover his care costs. Step one was to formulate a plan to generate the income required for the care fees. The aim was to reinvest a large part of Harry’s income-producing assets. It was necessary to minimise the impact on Harry’s share portfolio and the potential Capital Gains Tax liability that could arise if too large a part of it was sold.

Step 2:- Sell Investments. The next step was to release money from Harry’s investments. In total, £143,955 was freed-up from his deposits and his share portfolio. Fortunately Harry had sheltered his shares within Individual Savings Accounts, so no Capital Gains Tax liability was created.

Step 3:- Buy an Immediate Lifetime Care Plan. £143,955 purchased an Immediate Lifetime Care Plan. The plan paid for £35,400 of his formal care costs each year without producing any income tax liability, as it was made direct to the registered care provider. If this payment had been taxable investment income, a large part of it would have been subject to higher rate income tax.

Step 4:- Take care of inflation and care costs. An annual escalation of 5% in the benefits from the Immediate Lifetime Care Plan was chosen to take care of the potential increases in care costs. The care costs and domestic expenses were met from the care plan, Harry’s pensions, and the State Attendance Allowance. In addition Harry still had the investment income arising from his remaining capital put on deposit to provide for any additional personal expenditure. Harry’s care fees plan was secured with no

additional capital or income tax liability arising. This was principally because the Immediate Lifetime Care Plan underpinned the substantial domiciliary care fees to be paid. And he held on to his home in order to provide a legacy for his family, without any liability to Inheritance Tax.

Premium ProtectionHarry’s son, Tom, who acted on behalf of his father as his attorney, was concerned that the premium paid would be lost to the estate if his father died much earlier than anticipated. Consequently the adviser recommended taking one of the Premium Protection options. The Long Term Premium Protection option he selected would pay out up to 50% of the total premium paid on early death. The additional premium for this option was £13,253 and the initial sum assured was £78,604 (50% of £143,955 plus £13,253). The amount payable on early death would be the initial sum assured minus the total payments made up to that date. This amount would be included in Harry’s estate for Inheritance Tax purposes. Full details of the Premium Protection options are available from your Financial Adviser.

Dementia is an age-related syndrome that affects nearly 600,000 people in the UK, and is now the most common disease in the elderly. Living with Dementia is very difficult for both sufferers and their friends and families, but Dr Lynda Shaw believes it doesn’t have to spell the end of a happy and meaningful life. She strongly upholds that there are steps you can take to help Dementia sufferers enjoy everyday activities and make the most of their later years, despite their illness: “It is a common misconception that once Dementia has been diagnosed and begins to affect a person’s life, there is little that can be done to help the person. Whilst Dementia can of course at times be frightening, confusing and upsetting for both the sufferer and their carers, many of those with even advanced Dementia can still take great enjoyment from life, and it is a huge mistake to think otherwise. “As Dementia worsens this will obviously mean a lot of changes in life, and what the sufferer can cope with will undoubtedly change over time. Try varying activities to find what works and what doesn’t, and tailor things to an appropriate level of ability so the person doesn’t get frustrated. Even simple pleasures such as a walk in the park or listening to music can help increase the quality of life of a person with Dementia, so stay flexible in your planning and be creative in thinking of activities the person will enjoy. Most importantly, always focus on the positives.” Dementia affects people differently and can have several causes, the most common of which being Alzheimer’s Disease; its symptoms can affect memory, perception, understanding, judgement, emotions and even personality. Dr Lynda Shaw admits that there is no standard formula for how to deal with Dementia, as it depends hugely on the individual and the stage of their illness, but advises carers to invest time in activities that the person once enjoyed, and incorporate socialisation into daily routine wherever possible. “When dealing with severe Dementia, it’s often easy to focus on the illness and lose sight of the individual. Whenever you see the person with Dementia treat them with respect and dignity to help them feel confident and valued, however advanced their Dementia may be. Equally, it is important to communicate in a clear and reassuring way to help the Dementia sufferer feel at ease. Even if the person doesn’t understand what you’re saying they may pick up on non-verbal communication, so ensure your tone is warm and that your body language is open and friendly to avoid unintentionally coming across as stressed or irritated.”

Furthermore, Dr Lynda Shaw urges there are active steps that people can take to slow the rate of mental decline from Dementia, and even to avoid succumbing to the illness altogether. Most types of Dementia are degenerative, but some causes can be stopped or reversed if they are found soon enough, and Dr Shaw believes there are many things you can do to protect yourself; “Spotting the early signs of Dementia is crucial to being able to reduce the rate of deterioration. With the right lifestyle and guidance, we can help those suffering with Dementia in its early stages – and even those who aren’t – retain their independence and prolong their lives, and live as normally and happily as possible.” Tips to improve your chances at keeping Dementia at bay:

1. Keeping your brain active brain active is the most important way to avoid succumbing to Dementia. Challenge your brain daily with crosswords, sudokus, maths puzzles, or even a game of hangman, noughts and crosses or Pictionary with a friend.

2. Use your hands. Gardening, knitting, writing a diary will help improve your coordination and boost brain activity – even practice writing with your other hand to exercise the opposite side of your brain to challenge yourself!

3. Exercise regularly. Even just 10-20 minutes of walking daily can reduce the risk of Dementia through improving cardiovascular health to maintain blood flow to the brain. Not to mention the benefits of some fresh air and a change of scene!

4. Keep socialising. Arrange a weekly coffee date or phone call with friend or family member, join a book club, take up a new hobby, or volunteer for a charity in your local area.

5. Control high blood pressure by maintaining a healthy, balanced diet, cutting back on alcohol intake and quitting smoking.

DEMENTIA –Making the Most out of Life

Sufferers of Dementia can still enjoy their later years and can take active steps to lessen the effects of their illnesses with help urges cognitive neuroscientist and ageing specialistDr Lynda Shaw.


www.bluebirdcare.co.uk

Our staffOur staff are caring, trained to give medication andpolice checked.

What we offerWe 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.

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

Contact usVisit us online atwww.bluebirdcare.co.uk Call our professional team on 01452 414952

Bluebird Care, Suite 4 Westgate House, The Island, Gloucester GL1 2RU.

Call our professional team on 01452 414952

Tips to help those with Dementia

1. Find out as much as you can about Dementia and how it is affecting the particular person involved. That way when you talk to other family and friends about it, you are in the best position to be understanding and offer the right kind of support. 2. Let them and their family know you are there for them by making sure you stay in touch. Arrange regular meet-ups or just pop round for a cup of tea and a chat – even a quick text or phone call to let the family know you’re thinking of them can make a huge difference. 3. Be a good listener – those supporting the person suffering with Dementia often need someone to talk through things with, so ask thoughtful questions and listen carefully, and give them time to explore their feelings freely without judgment. 4. Organise a treat or outing to include the person with Dementia. Think of an appropriate activity for everyone to do together, such as a walk in the park or a trip to the seaside, and give everybody a fun day out. 5. Offer practical tips for how to make life easier for the Dementia sufferer. Small suggestions like placing useful telephone numbers by the phone or labeling cupboards and drawers can make a huge difference to daily life.

www.drlyndashaw.com Dementia! A word that conjures up many feelings and emotions most commonly fear and anxiety a condition

that it is often assumed will inevitably lead to the loss of independence, life skills and an inability to enjoy life to the full. The effects of dementia vary from person to person, but for most people living with dementia, their aim is to remain living in their own homes for as long as is practically possible. In order to achieve this, a degree of support can be very beneficial. A day centre is one of the support services that can make a huge difference. At the Manor Centre we offer opportunities to share companionship, build skills, confidence and self esteem. A stimulating varied activity programme and wellbeing activities such as hairdressing bathing and chiropody. We seek to encourage and accentuate the skills that people still have, not those which may have been impaired. We offer a wide range at activities suitable for all levels of ability. Quizzes may suit some people whose power of recall remains strong, others with short term memory loss will find this difficult and frustrating. In contrast a reminiscence activity which targets long term memory can be fun and stimulating. I once heard Doris say at the end of a seaside reminiscence activity “I thought my memory was really bad, but I remembered so much today!” In the day centre we get to know the people who attend well, their likes and dislikes, their strengths and weaknesses, but above all to get to know them as individual people with such varied backgrounds, experiences, and life stories. There is much laughter, conversation and friendship in the Centre, a sure sign that although living with dementia, a person can still live their life to the full and be a much valued part of our community.

3b Nelson Street, Stroud, Gloucestershire, GL5 2HL 01453 757 937.

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The Retired Greyhound Trust is a national charity dedicated to finding loving homes for greyhounds at the end of their racing careers. Since the Trust was established in 1975 it has found more than 60,000 homes for this wonderful breed, so it’s no surprise that greyhounds are fast becoming one of the most popular pets in Britain today!

The Trust operates a network of over 70 branches across England, Scotland and Wales, run by over 1,000 of the most dedicated and hardworking volunteers you could ever hope to meet. These volunteers help care for greyhounds, raise funds and find the right home for each dog. You can find your nearest branch by visiting www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/branches or by calling the Trust on 020 8335 3016.

Each year approximately 8,000 greyhounds retire from racing in Britain, typically between three and five years of age. They are gentle, intelligent animals who, on retirement, deserve some tender loving care in family home and in

return will provide you with wonderful companionship. Most greyhounds need relatively little exercise – just a couple of short walks on a lead each day. They tend to pick up new routines quickly and are not fussy eaters. They have short coats so don’t get too dirty and some can live happily with other pets, including cats.

The Trust takes great care to match each greyhound with a suitable home. Prior to taking on a greyhound one of our volunteers will carry out a home check and then arrange follow-up checks to ensure things are working out for both you and your greyhound.

All greyhounds that we rehome are neutered, micro-chipped, vaccinated, wormed and flea-treated and come with a lead, collar, muzzle, advice booklet and DVD and four weeks’ free pet insurance. Our experienced volunteers and staff are available to provide additional advice as required.

Anything you can do will make a big difference to the hundreds of greyhounds in our care and will ensure that we can continue to find loving homes for thousands of greyhounds after they have retired from racing. With your help we want to tell the world that ‘Greyhounds Make Great Pets’.

Greyhounds: Great Bet to Perfect Pet

To find out more, visitwww.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk or call 020 8335 3016.


[email protected]

2nd Floor Park House, Park TerraceWorcester Park, Surrey, KT4 7JZ

If you could help the Trust’s vital work and make a difference to these noble, intelligent and gentle dogs, please contact us on:

tel: 020 8335 3016

Every year the Retired Greyhound Trust finds thousands of homes for retired racing greyhounds. We have found over 60,000 homes since we were established in 1976.

Our priority as a charity is to look after these wonderful dogs, but we simply couldn’t continue our vital work without your support. The generosity of those who leave a gift in their Will is particularly important to us.

A gift in your Will can make a difference to the lives of retired racing greyhounds nationwide.

Charity no: 269668

Leave a legacy to support retired greyhounds.

50 plus.indd 1 05/03/2013 10:46:53

cheltenham issue 22

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