blackburn & burnley issue 34

& living in Blackburn & Burnley

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 55s WWW.RETIREDMAGAZINES.CO.UK

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RICK STEINSHARES HIS FAVOURITE DISHES FROM AROUND THE WORLD

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

INSIDEHOMETIPS TO TRANSFORM ANY ROOM

GARDENING MADE EASY

LEISUREMADRID - THE EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF ART

BLACKBURN'S MOST ENTERTAINING THEATRE

AFFORDABLE PEACE OF MIND HOLIDAYSPLUS MONEY OFF VOUCHER

HEALTH25% OFF GLASSESFOR THE OVER 60S

FOOD & DRINK

& living in Blackburn & Burnley

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RICK STEINSHARES HIS FAVOURITE DISHES FROM AROUND THE WORLD

LYNDABELLINGHAMWHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET WITH THIS CALENDAR GIRL

THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR THE OVER 55s WWW.RETIREDMAGAZINES.CO.UK

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Just as most people visit their dentist every six months for a check-up, or their doctor for a regular health examination, so you should also visit your optician to have your eyesight tested, regardless of whether you wear glasses or contact lenses.

Such examinations can reveal far more that just whether you need glasses; they can also identify medical conditions that could have far more serious implications.

'All routine eye tests include an internal and external examination of the eyes,' says Stuart Ingleby, director of Specsavers Blackburn. 'If an abnormality is discovered, prompt referral will ensure that your GP is aware of what may be a potentially harmful condition.'

Optometrists - the people who test your eyes - recommend that you have a complete eye examination every two years, whatever your age. Children should have their first eye test before the age of three.

More frequent checks are advised around the age of 45, when the lens of the eye begins to deteriorate (called presbyopia), meaning that some people may need glasses for reading and close work, and for the over-60s, for whom eye disease is more of a risk.

At Specsavers Opticians all children's eyecare is free.* Adults are required to pay a fee for an eye examination, although for some people this will be covered by the NHS. Check with your local store to see if you qualify.

So don't wait until you are having headaches or some kind of visual problem before visiting the optician. Instead, regard your eyes as a useful indicator of your general health and make eye tests a regular part of your life.

Your eyesight is precious and taking care of youreyes is an essential part of your all-round healthcare routine.

Units 1 & 2 Morrisons Superstore, Railway Road, Blackburn. Tel: 01254 682 504

21 Lord Street Mall, Blackburn. Tel: 01254 580 099

Units 1 & 2 Morrisons Superstore, Railway Road, Blackburn.Tel: 01254 682 504

21 Lord Street Mall, Blackburn.Tel: 01254 580 099

OVER 60s 25% OFF GLASSES£69 OR ABOVE, MONDAY TO FRIDAY

www.retiredmagazines.co.uk4

Online booking available via www.thwaitesempiretheatre.co.uk

BOX OFFICE 01254 685500

Open 10-12:30 Monday to Saturday.

These are just a small selection of our fabulous attractions. For full details please visit our website (below).

Now on sale: “SINBAD” our magical family pantomime!!

Blackburn’s most entertaining theatre.

THEM BEATLESFriday 9th September 7:30pmGet your tickets to ride on this helter-skelter of a showTickets £12

JOHN LEYTON AND THE 60s EXPLOSIONFriday 16th September 7:30pmA night of memorable nostalgia from the Golden era of pop.Tickets £12 Con: £10

DEAN TORKINGTON PRESENTS

A NIGHT WITH ELTON AND MEATLOAFSat 17th September 7:30 pmRave reviews wherever they performTickets £10

BLACKBURN WITH DARWEN BRASS BANDFriday 23rd September 7:30pmAn evening of popular classical favourites played the Brass Band way.Tickets £8

THE NORTHERN JAZZ ORCHESTRAFriday 14th October 7:30pmPlus Special Guest VocalistsPlaying the music of Buddy Rich, Count Basie, Stan Kenton and many more.Tickets £10

A DAY IN THE DEATH OF JOE EGG By Peter Nicholls

5/10/11 to 8/10/11 at 7:30pmAward winning Blackburn Drama Club present the acclaimed classic drama.Tickets £9

FACE VALUESat 1st October 7:30 pmThe UK’s no. 1 tribute to the unique talents of Phil Collins and Genesis Tickets £10

REGENT LIONS VARIETY SHOWSat 24th September 7:30 pmA fantastic line up of local and international favourites.Tickets £10 Con: £9

Dear Reader

Welcome to the latest local Retired magazine which we hope you will sit back and enjoy at your leisure. Our journalists Angela Kelly, Graham Smith and Sheila Alcock are continuing to keep you well informed with their celebrity interviews and up to date household tips.

We know you will also be left with a smile on your face after reading Graham’s observations on life!

If you know of an event which would benefit from free publicity please feel free to let us know and we can consider including it in our next issue.

Welcome toRetired Magazine

TRAVEL & LEISURE8-9 Madrid Charming, cultural & thrilling.

10-11 Affordable peace of mind holidays Plus money off voucher.

REGULARS5 Graham Smith Twittering on.14-15 Interview Lynda Bellingham talks to Retired.16-17 Rick Stein's Coast to Coast Recipes Three of Rick's favourite for you to try.

HEALTH2-3 Care for your eyes With 25% off Glasses for over 60s.38-39 Care and support for the over 60s at Showley Brook Residential Home.

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

C O N T E N T S

www.retiredmagazines.co.uk 5

When I was young I kept a diary, now I’m told I have to Twitter and tweet.

I’ve cracked Facebook, where two third of the world puts its life in the public domain, so I thought I’d have a Twitter. Why not? Stephen Fry is a mega hero on there, politicians do it, celebrities do it, footballers do it, often while on the pitch, and world shattering news, once the province of the BBC is regularly posted on there….if you can read it.

You see you have to get your message across in 140 letters. That’s 140 characters, not three pads of your granny’s best notepaper and a first class stamp, and it’s not easy. I’ve barely begun to impart my pearls of wisdom to the world when I’ve run out of space so I invariably leave a half finished tweet or delete the whole thing in disgust. Daft isn’t it? I’ve just written about 1,000 characters and barely begun this piece and a tweet is a tenth of that!

When you tweet you attract followers. I have 19 including a newspaper group in Utah, Texas. I have no idea why Utah Newspapers wants to follow my tweets and I have no intention of following theirs. A large, muscular looking lady from Holland started following me but her tweets were in Dutch so I daren’t follow her in case I’m arrested for something unspeakable.

If I’m honest I don’t really get it. I’m a closet tweeter, can I say that? If something in the news gets up my nose, and it invariably does, I’ll tweet and put a link on to the offending piece. That’s fun, but why do I want to read the tweets of John from Halifax who twitters on about everything including what his wife has put in that day’s sandwiches which he’s eating on the train travelling to London?

Actor and comedian Stephen Fry is a Twitter celebrity. He has more followers than the lead pigeon on Nelson’s column and tweets incessantly. Riots were threatened when he said he was leaving the site, but who are all these followers?

I’m perplexed in the morning when I see Rhondda from the Valleys peeking at me before I’ve had my second coffee. Maeser Morgan the washing machine repair man could be very useful but it will be a heck of a call out charge from Washington, and how Mary Beth Bass, romantic author, Keats idolater,

butter vegetarian, wife and mother came my way I don’t know, but she twitters incessantly. I’m also very worried about Erskine Howcroft, whose symbol is a large white egg and has yet to utter a tweet. Does this mean he/she has not hatched yet?

I recall those minute diaries which you got at Christmas with a pencil stuck down the spine. I used to set off with good intentions of chronicling my life on a daily basis to leave for posterity, but invariably the pencil had broken by January 5th and you’d lost interest anyway. How times have changed. I’ve just written the equivalent of 16.26 tweets. I need to go to my blog.

It’s enough to give you a phobia

In this mad politically correct world of ours there are many phobias but pogonophobia was a new one to me.

Fear of pogo sticks I thought, but no I was educated by a former seafaring man with whom I worked recently. He has a full beard which is long enough to keep his knees warm in winter and he told me the story of how he lost his job as a trawler coxon because his boss had a bad case of pogonophobia.

I questioned him and he explained how he had been summoned to the office and ordered to shave and eventually sacked because he refused.

Apparently the boss had a bad case of pogonophobia…..fear of beards!

Do you have a language issue?

What is BBC radio doing to the English language?

Why are half the travel and news presenters now over enunciating and simpering as though they have blocked adenoids?

The buzz words getting up my nose at the moment are “issues”, “awesome”, “iconic” and my most hated, “absolutely”, but it’s the pronunciation which is worst. There is only one “a” in way, it is not waay, as in over emphasising the middle syllable. The word is road not rowd, and there is no “y” in station!

Do I have an issue with this? I do, absolutely, it’s an awesome insult to the English language.

I feel a Twitter coming on.

Twittering. Everybody’s doing itsays Graham Smith

Golf Societies

welcomePlease call for

information on packages and

availability

www.towneley.org

Burnley Council... providing a great day out

Mature 9 and 18-hole courses set in the beautiful

surroundings of Towneley Park

Golf CoursesTowneley

18-holes from £13 - Club house facilities, bar and catering, well stocked discount golf shop

01282 [email protected]

Swinging to senior health and fitnessThere’s an old joke about golf spoiling a good walk, but for many seniors it is a pastime which promotes better health, a great social life and longevity.

Only a few years ago in America a 102-year-old lady became the oldest person ever to achieve

a hole in one, beating the previous record which had been held by a 101-year-old!

During an average game of golf you are likely to walk five miles. Can you remember the last time you did that? It has all the right things to promote good health. Cardio vascular workout, exercising the limbs and promoting social mixing both on and off the green.

If you haven’t undertaken regular exercise for some time you’d be well advised to have a medical check before starting to play golf. You don’t have to plunge in and play 18 holes immediately. Try a gentle stroll around a couple of holes and ease yourself into it is the experts’ advice.

Golf is probably one of the most social sports where you will meet people from most walks of life on the

same level. If you get the bug you can engage the services of a club professional to teach you the finer points but it is equally suited to the amateur who just enjoys the exercise and the company.

The 19th hole is as popular as the game itself and you will find many social functions are arranged at most clubs or you can simply enjoy a drink and a conversation with members after a game. It is often a place for families too with many clubs being used for wedding receptions, christenings or weekend entertainment shows.

But seniors do need to be aware of the dangers of playing golf if they have an existing back problem. If you have not exercised your lower and middle back muscles for some time the exertion of swinging a club could cause discomfort. It is important to seek medical advice and follow it. It may be that a gentle introduction, building up to full participation over an extended

period is the answer for you. Build up your muscles by regular strength training, e.g. in a fitness center.

A simple exercise for your back which you can practice every morning in the bathroom: put a towel behind your neck, hold both ends of the towel and press the head against it. Hold for five seconds, relax, and repeat fifteen times.

Before making the first stroke golfers should warm up for more than ten minutes, for example by jogging. Furthermore you should continue with stretching of the forearms, shoulders, the

lower back, chest and trunk as well as the groin. This warm-up makes sense: scientific studies show that golfers that had spent more than ten minutes for a warm-up not only achieved a better handicap but they also had significantly fewer injuries.

This advantage can be increased by taking a rest once in a while during the game and by not playing too often. It turned out that golf players who play four or more rounds a week during the golf season and at least 200 balls per week run a higher risk of damages by strain.

American legend Jack Nicklaus must surely be the inspiration for the older golfer. Now 71, he was still winning major tournaments until well into his fifties and achieved a level of success which will probably never be emulated. Now completely retired he has a major golf course design company and has become an inspiration for the older generation who revere his style and tenacity.

Golf is a hugely popular sport amongst older ladies. The gentle exercise combined with the social life attract thousands onto the courses. Socially the ladies form an invaluable part of preparing for club events and many clubs boast captains of both sexes.

We hear much of the degeneration of our mental health as we age. Golf is not only physically beneficial but has been proved to stimulate mental health by improving hand to eye co-ordination and mental agility through the scoring system. Coupled with club selection and observational exercise it is an all round game to keep seniors on the ball for many years to come.

You can get all sorts of equipment for the senior level. There are drivers, iron set, putters, fairway woods, balls, bags, shoes, and the most popular hybrid clubs all designed for the older generation. All this type of equipment can be custom fitted for you just like the regular equipment. There are a number of different adjustments done to the senior line of equipment to help you keep up and even hit it better and further than the young guns.


2011

Christmas & Groups

Burnley Council...Providing a great day out

Location: Towneley Hall lies in Towneley Park 1.5 miles south east of Burnley town centre. The hall is approximately 1 mile from the park entrance on Todmorden Road (A671).

By Car: From the west leave the M65 at junction 9 and follow the signs for Halifax (A646), then Towneley Hall. From the east Towneley Hall is signposted from Burnley town centre. Pay and display parking is available.

By Bus: Public transport links - Bus numbers 589, 592, 92, 483, 8 and 3. Contact 0871 200 22 33 for full details.

Admission: Free for residents of Burnley borough, children & students. Entry charge for non residents.

Opening times:Monday to Thursday 12 noon - 5pmFridays: closedSaturday and Sunday: 12 noon - 5pmPre-booked guided tours available please ring for information.Local Craft Museum: openSaturday & Sunday 12 noon - 4.30pm.

The Old StablesRestaurant and Cafe:Towneley Park, Burnley,Lancashire BB11 3RQ.In the grounds of Towneley,open 10am daily.Meals and functions can be booked.Tel: 01282 430111.

Towneley HallBurnley, Lancashire BB11 3RQ.

Tel: 01282 424213Fax: 01282 436138

Web: www.towneley.orgEmail: [email protected]

Towneley Hall is owned andmanaged by Burnley Council

Christmas Craft Fair Sun 27th NovFree entry 12pm - 4.30pmThe Christmas craft fair is an ever popular event, consisting of numerous quality craft stalls. Visitors can purchase quality hand made gifts, ranging from painted pottery to hand knitted, home spun, woollen goods.

Pre-Christmas Group day out Mon 5th Dec -& Tree Festival £18.95pp Sun 11 DecA perfect day out in stunning surroundings to get everyone in the Christmas spirit, for groups of 15 to 50 people. Itinerary and menu available on request.

Suggested Itinerary:11am: Arrival at Towneley, coffee and mince pies served - free time to explore Towneley, visit the shop and look at the Christmas tree festival.1pm: Lunch2.30pm: Free time to browse Towneley, visit the craft stalls or one of the nearby shopping outlets.

Christmas Tree Festival Mon 5th-Sun 11th Decand Craft Stalls £3.70pp Please ring for detailsThis promises to be a magical event. The Hall will be decorated throughout with Christmas designs and seasonal table decorations created on the theme ‘Christmas at Towneley’.

Santa Comes to Towneley Sun 11th Dec01282 426449 Please ring for details

Christmas Carol Concerts Mon 12th & Wed 14th£16pp 7pm - 10.30pmThe carol concerts will feature an evening of festive music and carols provided by the choir, followed by a substantial hot and cold buffet, a full bar service will be available.

Christmas Formal Dinner Dance Sat 17 Dec£38pp 7pm - MidnightOur formal Christmas dinner dance gives our guests the chance to dress to impress! After a drinks reception a full three course dinner will be served followed by dancing, a full bar and wine order service will be available.


Madrid possesses a wealth of cultural attractions and is a thrilling city with theatre shows, opera, dancing and countless other forms of nightlife. You will also find other exciting places to go for a night to remember. Madrid has long laid claim to the title of “European Capital of Art”. It has a number of museums and galleries housing some of the finest classics from Goya, Velásquez, El Greco and many more. Museo del Prado is a fine museum of paintings set in a stunning 18th century neoclassical building. Worth visiting even if you have only a passing interest in art and must see works include Velásquez’s Las Meninas, widely considered to be the finest painting in the world and Goyas Majas and Pinturas Negras (dark paintings). There are usually a number of local artists outside selling interesting pieces.

Centro Nacional de Arte Reina Sofía is second in size only to the Pompidou in Europe, this modern art museum showcases 20th century Spanish creations, including Picasso’s famous anti-war masterpiece – Guernica. I started on the top floor which has pencil drawings and sketches for Guernica before going downstairs to appreciate the magnificence of it for real.

Casa de Campo, known as the “lungs of Madrid”, has plenty of space to get lost in its 4,000 acre park, which was only opened to the public in 1931 after previously serving as a royal hunting estate. As well as countless walks, it boasts a boating lake, an open air pool (mid June - September, 10.30am-8pm), a zoo and a theme park.

Plaza de Santa Ana, a small central square has strong literary connections and is the recommended spot for sundowners and tapas at the end of a day’s sightseeing.

Madrid has a rich football history and the Madrileños live and breathe it. It is home to two 1st division sides, Real Madrid and Athlético Madrid. The main draw is Real who play at the 75,000 capacity Santiago Bernabeau stadium. A tour is available on non-match days between Tue-Sun, 10.30am-8.30pm. Getting to see matches is difficult if they are playing their great rivals Barcelona or one of the Madrid teams but otherwise tickets are generally available, although be prepared to queue!

Madrid is not without its romantic side. As the new home of Flamenco, Madrid is alive with music and passion. The many stunning parks and gardens provide tranquil spots to stroll and the numerous quaint little tapas bars offer a warming ambience all year round.

DON’T LEAVE WITHOUT…...visiting the Parque del Oeste, one of the city’s lesser known spaces, this park offers the perfect spot for a tranquil shady walk beneath mature trees. Overlooked in the summer by the lively terrazas on Paseo del Pintor Rosales, it is also an ideal way of connecting to Casa de Campo by cable car which runs high over the river and offers stunning views of the city.

MadridThe European Capital Of Art


Madrid airport is 9km from the centre and Exprés Aeropuerto (Airport Express) is a 24-hour service which has only 3 stops after the airport: O’Donell, Plaza de Cibeles and Atocha. The buses run every 15 minutes during the day and every 35 minutes at night, and the journey takes approximately 40 minutes. Tickets can be bought on board.

There are taxi ranks in front of the arrivals lounges of all three terminals at Madrid airport. A taxi to/from the airport to/from central Madrid should cost around e20 though taxi drivers are notorious for overcharging recent arrivals! Check that the meter is set at zero when you get in and that it begins the journey at the official minimum fare - currently €2.05.

Climate: The climate of Madrid is dry, warm and pleasant. It’s high altitude and proximity to mountains causes some wide variations in winter and summer temperatures. In summer the heat at midday can be intense, with pleasantly cool evenings. Winters, by contrast, bring temperatures dropping to just below freezing. Rain in Madrid is a rarity, with a short rainy season in late October and some showers in spring.

Language: Spanish and although English is spoken widely, the locals always appreciate your small efforts to communicate in their language.

Currency: Euro (EUR) €

T R A V E LT R A V E L

Luxury holiday homes in the English Lake DistrictOwning a timber lodge or caravan at Old Park Wood means enjoying a haven of tranquility in beautiful surroundings. The quiet, spacious Park nestles in delightful woodland where you really feel ‘far from the madding crowd’, and facilities such as our indoor pool and sauna add an unmistakable touch of luxury. Perfectly placed to explore a stunning local area of beauty, you’ll soon discover, there’s no place like a home at Old Park Wood ...

Old Park Wood Holiday Park, Holker Estate, Holker, Cark-in-Cartmel, Cumbria, LA11 7PP.

T: 01539 558266 E: [email protected] W: www.oldparkwood.co.uk

At Old Park Wood, the accommodation you can choose from is of the very highest standard. Our luxury timber lodges are superbly designed and equipped, and the spacious static caravans offer everything you could want in a holiday home, from as little as £10,000.

What we have to offerPark Shop, Laundrette, Table Tennis Room, Indoor Heated Pool, Sauna, Facility, Playgrounds & Football, Wi- Fi, Fishing PermitsHolker Privileges Pass, Barrier Site, Dogs Welcome

Please quote Retired Magazine when calling...


10 RETIRED MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2011

Abbey Lawn HotelTorquay is most certainly one of the UK’s Finest resorts and the heart of the English Riviera.

If you are looking to unwind in style, this elegant Georgian hotel is the place to stay. Located in the grounds of the former Torre Abbey, overlooking Torbay, there are superb facilities. These include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, gym, steam room, sauna and a spacious conservatory. As with all our own hotels a night porter ensures 24 hour reception service.

Ocean View HotelTake a short boat ride across the Solent and discover the Isle of Wight, an island of great natural beauty and superb weather, with a wealth of attractions for visitors of all ages. Shanklin, on the south coast of the island, is home to a variety of safe, golden beaches and a quaint collection of shops housed in traditional thatched cottages.

An elegant hotel commanding magnificent views across Sandown Bay, the balconies provide the perfect place to enjoy the sunset on summer evenings. Guests can unwind in the piano lounge before enjoying an evning meal in the spacious restaurant. A night porter ensures 24 hour reception service.

Imperial HotelEastbourne is an ideal holiday destination, it has one of the top sunshine records in the UK and has been awarded the Seaside Award for its clean safe beaches for the past eight years.

An impressive Victorian hotel, situated at the seaward end of Devonshire place, less than a hundred yards from the seafront, on a delightful tree-lined boulevard less than five minutes walk from the main facilities and town centre amenities. A night porter ensures 24 hour reception service.

1501

Est.1923

Affordable peace of mind ..... Holidays

ABBEY LAWN HOTEL, TORQUAY OCEAN VIEW HOTEL, ISLE OF WIGHT IMPERIAL HOTEL, EASTBOURNE

CALL NOW FOR FREE COLOUR BROCHURE

Coach Holidays 2011

Freephone : 0800 083 9086www.robinsons-holidays.co.uk


11RETIRED MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2011

Supplements Sea View Room, (pp) : 8 days £15.00

Abbey Lawn Hotel

ImperialHotel

Ocean View HotelDepartures

27/28 Aug £399 £399 £399

03/04 Sept £399 £399 £399

10/11 Sept £389 £389 £389

17/18 Sept £379 £379 £379

24/25 Sept £359 £359 £359

01/02 Oct £319 £319 £319

08/09 Oct £309 £309 £309

15/16 Oct £299 £299 £299

22/23 Oct £279 £279 £279

30 Oct £279 £279 £279

06 Nov £269 £269 £269

13 Nov £259 £259 £259

20 Nov £249 £249 £249

27 Nov £239 £239 £239

04 Dec £229 £229 £229

27 Aug £229 31 Aug £22910 Sept £21914 Sept £21924 Sept £20928 Sept £19908 Oct £18522 Oct £17926 Oct £17505 Nov £17509 Nov £17519 Nov £16923 Nov £16903 Dec £16507 Dec £16511 Dec* £15515 Dec* £15523 Dec £35529 Dec £335

21 Aug £339

04 Sep £329

18 Sep £315

02 Oct £269

16 Oct £245

30 Oct £225

13 Nov £209

27 Nov £195

20/21 Aug £369 27/28 Aug £36503/04 Sept £36510/11 Sept £35517/18 Sept £34524/25 Sept £32501/02 Oct £28908/09 Oct £27915/16 Oct £26922/23 Oct £24930 Oct £24906 Nov £23913 Nov £22920 Nov £21927 Nov £21904 Dec £199

ALL TOURS INCLUDE FREE INSURANCE

MYSTERY TOURS WHY NOT TAKE A HOLIDAY TO ONE OF ROBINSON'S OWN HOTELS AND AT THE SAME TIME BENEFIT FROM A LOWER PRICE?

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Turkey & Tinsel Tours displayed in red. * Unlimited single rooms.

Name: ........................................................................................................................................................

Address: .....................................................................................................................................................

..................................................................Poscode: ............................................................................

Tel: ..............................................................................................................................................................

Reader Offer Save £20 per Booking with Robinsons HolidaysSimply attach to your Robinsons Holidays booking request to claim your

£20 discount. Only one voucher per holiday booking.Discount is only valid on new bookings. Discount voucher can not be

redeemed against any existing bookings.

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RD 27 Aug - £249 £24931 Aug - £249 £24910 Sept - £239 £23914 Sept - £239 £23924 Sept - £229 £22928 Sept - £219 £21908 Oct £209 £209 £20912 Oct £209 £205 £20522 Oct £199 £199 £19926 Oct £195 £195 £19505 Nov £195 £195 £19509 Nov £195 £195 £19519 Nov £189 £189 £18923 Nov £189 £189 £18903 Dec £179 £179 £17907 Dec £179 £179 £17911 Dec £169* £169* £169*15 Dec £165* £165* £165*23 Dec £389 £389 £38929 Dec £369 £369 £369

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All Robinsons own Hotels include: l FREE insurance l Local Convenient Pick- up-points l No single room supplements l Friendly service

l Luxury tour coaches l Local Excursions l Evening Entertainment.

Turkey & Tinsel Tours displayed in red*Unlimited Single Rooms

Saturday/Sunday Departures

Abbey Lawn Hotel

ImperialHotel

Ocean View HotelDepartures

4,6 or 7 nights Half Boardwith 2/3 excursions

Over 50?Your local organisationhere to help youIn October 2011 Age Concern Blackburn with Darwen is becoming Age UK Blackburn with Darwen. We will remain as a local, independent charity providing our range of services to local older people. We will become a brand partner of Age UK which works to improve the lives of older people across the UK through campaigning, influencing and support to local organisations.

The services we can offer you in Blackburn with Darwen are:

Advice and Information Service: 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: To encourage people to be more active and healthy we provide a range of activities at community venues throughout the Borough. Currently these include tai chi, gentle exercise, gym sessions, walks, swimming groups, Wii sessions, 10 pin bowling, dancing and aromatherapy.

We also provide basic computer tuition and loan of Nintendo DS Brain Training equipment.

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: 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 and 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 Telephone: 01254 266620

Darwen Office, Town Hall, Croft Street, Darwen, BB3 1BQTelephone: 01254 773440

[email protected]

Registered charity number 508513 (Age Concern Blackburn with Darwen)

The new name for Age Concern Blackburn with Darwen

As Age UK Blackburn with Darwen we still need to raise all our own funds in order to continue our work providing services to local older 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 towards our work

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 have a lasting effect

Charity shop - the profit from our shop supplies a vital source of income and each customer and donation helps

Trading products - any profits go directly to support our charitable activities

Time - we are always in need of volunteer who give their time to help us

For more information contact either our Blackburn or Darwen office

Tailor-made products and services for the over 50s• Home Insurance • Travel Insurance • Personal Alarms

Home, car and travel insurance are provided by Ageas Insurance Limited. Gas and Electricity is provided by E.ON Energy Solutions Limited.Age UK is a registered trademark of Age UK (Charity no 1128267). The use of the name and logo Age UK is done so under a licence agreement between Age UK and Age UK Enterprises Limited, its commercial services arm. Net profits are donated to Age UK. Age UK Enterprises Limited, Linhay House, Ashburton, Devon TQ13 7UP. ID9975 11/10 MP2210V2APR11 SL030275_11

For a no-obligation quote, visit:Age Concern Blackburn With Darwen Trading Ltd4 King Street, Blackburn BB2 2DHTel: 01254 266620 (open Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri 10am to 3.30pm, Thurs 10am to 1pm)Also find us in Darwen Town Hall

or call 08000 853 741 or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/buy

• Car Insurance • Gas and Electricity • Funeral Plans

Home, car and travel insurance are provided by Ageas Insurance Limited. Gas and Electricity


Lynda Bellingham was trying to sort out her home “after a hell of a week” rehearsing someone new on the latest tour of Calendar Girls and spending rare time in domestic bliss.“Because my life tends to be all over the place outside the home, I like relative order in it,” she explains in those immediately identifiable sexy tones that have ensured a fascinatingly varied career including a wealth of radio and TV voice-overs.

She is now 62, still glamorous but with the kind of accessible personality that makes women like her and men fancy her. The fact that she has spent the past two years taking her clothes off on stage – twice on Saturdays – has, surprisingly, endeared her to both.

“We’re not actually nude, of course,” she laughs, “but that’s how it looks. Calendar Girls is a marvellous play – Tim Firth (who wrote the film and the play) has done a fantastic job with it and wherever you go you can feel the audience’s sense of excitement and anticipation because of the ‘nude’ scenes.”

If you’ve been hiding in a cave in the Himalayas for the past couple of years you might not have heard of the true story of the ladies of a Yorkshire Women’s Institute who decided to raise money for charity after the husband of one of them died from leukaemia. Their idea of a nude calendar made them iconic figures worldwide, and spawned both a hit film and the highly successful play.

Chris Harper is the main driver of this campaign (mostly played on stage by Lynda although casts have varied) and the actress is still a great admirer of the original role model. “It took someone like her to make it happen, I think. Having met her several times, I can see why.”

So could Lynda herself have been that driving force in the same situation? “Yes, I think I could,” she states. “I think I’m a bit determined like that.”

A glance back at Lynda’s own life reveals the truth of that statement. She was born in Montreal, Canada, but adopted by an English couple at the age of four months and brought up in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.

“I had a wonderful childhood, very happy,” she recalls. “I think my generation got used to accepting things – the Pill, sexual freedom among them – and that has stood us in good stead for today’s changing world.”

She got her big break as a nurse in ITV’s ‘70s afternoon soap opera General Hospital and appeared in films including Confessions of a Driving Instructor and Sweeney! During the ‘80s, though, she became famous as the head of the family in the Oxo TV adverts.

“Of course they wanted me to be warm and motherly, while what I really wanted as an actress was to be edgy and different!” she says with a husky laugh. “It was fine doing the adverts but it can be a double-edged sword - my profile among agents and casting directors for a long time was this type of person.”

This worked in her favour, though, when she played vet James Herriot’s wife (replacing Carol Drinkwater) in telly favourite All Creatures Great and Small, and her comic timing was also recognised in situation comedies Second Thoughts and its sequel Faith in the Future.

What you see is what you get withLYNDA BELLINGHAM


She starred in the 14-part Doctor Who serial The Trial of a Time Lord playing against type as the Inquisitor, reprising this character for an audio series.

And from 2000 for three years, she played compassionate accountant Pauline Farnell in the hit TV series At Home With The Braithwaites alongside Amanda Redman and Peter Davison.

For several months in 2004, however, she enjoyed a recurring role in The Bill as villainess Irene Radford, offering fans a chance to see a different side of Lynda’s acting skills. “I really loved doing that!” she exclaims.

“Unfortunately, there really aren’t that many good roles for women of a certain age, and there are quite a few of us after the few that there are.”

Lynda, has, however, had an interesting range of roles in the theatre, and has also raised her own profile on TV as a quick-witted regular on the award-winning Loose Women programme where she is just herself. In her private life, she has been married three times, her last – “and final” – marriage to Michael Pattemore (a Spanish-based mortgage broker known on Loose Women as “Mr Spain”) on her 60th birthday. She has two sons and a stepson, all in their 20s, two of whom live with the couple in London.

“Michael has always come touring with me, which is lovely because you can be away from home for a while,” she states.

Her autobiography Lost and Found proved a literary hit, and the paperback version was out in March. More appearances in Loose Women and more theatre performances are also on the cards for this year, although Lynda says that Calendar Girls will be “rested” after a three-year run and she’s fine with that.

She has also become an active campaigner and spokeswoman for the Alzheimer’s Research Trust and Age UK after both her adoptive mother and her birth mother suffered from this debilitating dementia.

“It’s funny because you can get quite nervous talking about yourself, as I’ve been doing promoting my book at literary festivals and the like,“ she says. “But I don’t find it difficult to talk about the charity and the importance of getting more people to understand about Alzheimer’s.”

As for having her own “role models”, Lynda reckons that she would really like to have the kind of serious roles that comedian and presenter Matthew Kelly has moved into latterly.

“Now get me some female Matthew Kelly-type roles and I’ll be happy”, she insists.

And that warm voice breaks into the kind of laughter that makes you realise that the likeable image you see is actually what you get with this talented actress whose career is set to continue delighting fans for a long time to come.

OF COURSE THEY WANTED ME TO BE WARM AND MOTHERLY, WHILE WHAT

I REALLY WANTED AS AN ACTRESS WAS TO BE EDGY AND DIFFERENT!

I N T E RV I E W

For the base, sift the flour, yeast and salt into a bowl and make a well in the centre. Add the warm water and olive oil and mix together into a soft dough. Tip the dough out on to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Then return it to the bowl, cover with cling film and leave in a warm place for approximately 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Meanwhile, for the topping, heat the oil and garlic in a large, shallow pan. As soon as the garlic starts to sizzle, add the tomatoes and some salt and pepper and simmer quite vigorously for 7-10 minutes, until reduced to a thickish sauce. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Put 2 large baking sheets or quarry tiles into the oven and heat it to its highest setting. Knock the air out of the dough and knead it briefly once more on a lightly floured surface. Divide into 4 pieces and keep the spare ones covered with cling film while you shape the first pizza.

Sprinkle a spare baking sheet or a pizza peel with some of the polenta or semolina. Roll the dough out into a disc approximately 25cm (10 inches) in diameter, lift it on to the baking sheet and reshape it with your fingers into a round. Spread over one quarter of the tomato sauce to within about 2½ cm (1 inch) of the edge. Sprinkle with some of the oregano and then cover with a quarter of the mozzarella cheese slices. Drizzle with a little olive oil, then open the oven door and quickly slide the pizza off the tray on to the hot baking sheet on the top shelf. Bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the crust is crisp and golden. Meanwhile, prepare another pizza and slide it on to the second hot baking sheet.

Take the first pizza out of the oven and move the second one on to the top shelf to continue cooking. Slide the cooked pizza directly on to wooden chopping boards placed in the centre of the table, scatter with the torn basil leaves and cut into wedges with a pizza wheel. Make sure everybody starts while you make and cook the other 2 pizzas.

F O O D & D R I N K

Rick Stein’s passion for fresh well-sourced food has taken him from continent to continent, across magnificent shorelines and to the very best produce the coast has to offer. Rick remarks “My greatest enthusiasm in life has been finding dishes that change my perception of cooking, that reveal a whole new vista of flavour combination. I think we all enjoy that. I’m just someone with an enthusiasm for food and a curiosity that’s sent me sniffing around all over the place looking for lovely dishes in all corners of the globe”

Taken from his book ‘Coast to Coast’ (BBC Books, £20) here are three of Rick’s favourite recipes inspired by travels across the world. Pizza Margherita

M A K E S 4

4 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped,

1½ kg (3½ lb) vine-ripened tomatoes, skinned, seeded and roughly chopped

1 tablespoon chopped oregano

350g (12oz) buffalo mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced

A large handful of basil leaves, torn into pieces

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

FOR THE BASE:

550g (1¼ lb) strong white flour

4 teaspoons easy-blend yeast

2 teaspoons salt

325-350ml (11-12 fl oz) hand-hot water

4 teaspoons olive oil

4 tablespoons polenta or semolina

Rick Stein's Coast to Coast Recipes



Cook the pasta in a large pan of boiling, well-salted water (1 teaspoon per 600ml/1 pint) for 7-8 minutes or until al dente.

Meanwhile, put the tomatoes, crab meat, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, chilli flakes and garlic into another pan and warm through over a gentle heat. Drain the pasta, return to the pan with the sauce and briefly toss together. Season to taste. Divide between 4 warmed plates and serve immediately.

Peel the papaya and finely shred it on a mandolin into long, thin shreds. Work your way around the fruit until you get to the core and seeds, which you discard.

Moisten the palm sugar (which is always very hard) with a little cold water. Put the garlic, red chilli and green beans into a mortar or mixing bowl and lightly bruise with the pestle or the end of a rolling pin. Add the sugar, peanuts, dried shrimps, fish sauce, water, tomatoes and lime juice and bruise everything once more, turning the mixture over with a fork as you do so. Add a good handful of the shredded papaya (about 50g/ 2 oz) and turn over and bruise one last time. Serve straight away.

Crab Linguine with parsley & chilli

Green Papaya Salad

S E R V E S 4

S E R V E S 1

450g (1 lb) dried linguine or spaghetti

3 vine-ripened tomatoes, skinned, seeded and chopped

300g (10 oz) fresh white crab meat

1 tablespoon chopped parsley

1½ tablespoons lemon juice

50ml (2 fl oz) extra virgin olive oil

A pinch of dried chilli flakes

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 small green (under-ripe) papaya

1 teaspoon palm sugar or light muscovado sugar

A pinch of chopped garlic

A pinch of chopped red bird’s eye chilli

5 x 10cm (4-inch) pieces of snake bean or 5 french beans, halved lengthways

A few roasted, unsalted peanuts

A pinch of chopped dried shrimps

1 tablespoon Thai fish sauce (nam pla)

1 tablespoon water

4 cherry plum tomatoes, halved

Juice of 1 lime

www.retiredmagazines.co.uk


As we head into the Autumn months, Wiltshire Farm Foods has been busy developing a range of delicious recipes, including many exciting new dishes to tempt your taste buds. We’re also delighted to be celebrating our 20th anniversary, and proud of the fact that we’ve been delivering quality meals to happy customers up and down the country for all that time. It’s a remarkable milestone, one that we could never have achieved without our superb staff and loyal customers, who remain at the heart of what we do. We know that the work we do makes a real difference to the lives of all our customers. We’re dedicated to providing a caring, considerate service, and do our very best to deliver above and beyond what’s expected of us. From filling our customers’ freezers by hand, to offering friendly local phone support, we always go the extra mile.

So, what’s on the menu this Autumn/Winter? Our seasonal selection has something for everyone, from traditional classics like Chicken in Red Wine Gravy and Gammon with Pineapple to some exciting new recipes too. Our popular Hearty range – for those with bigger appetites – has been expanded to include some tasty new additions like Hearty Pork with Sage Stuffing and the sublime Hearty Lamb Grill Steaks in Mint Gravy.

Our Head Chef, Phil Rimmer, is happy to tell you more: I’m really excited about the dishes we’ve created for you this season. We have some fantastic new Mini and Hearty meals to try, and some great vegetarian meals too – the Cauliflower & Spinach Curry is a classic! We always strive to make our meals the best, continually improving them so that you receive the tastiest food at great value for money! And of course, there’s nothing better to round-off the perfect meal than with one of our tantalising desserts!

How about our delicious Luxury Bramley Apple Pie or zesty Lemon Meringue Pie? We also have a range of meals designed for special dietary needs – offering lower fat, higher fibre, moderate salt, diabetic and gluten free as well as other ‘free-from’ options. There’s no commitment, so order as often or as little as you like, the choice is yours. Meals are delivered free of charge and direct to your door by our friendly CRB police-

checked drivers and if you wish, they will even pop the meals in the freezer for you.

Whenever you’re ready, you simply heat your meal from frozen in an oven or microwave and enjoy!

Les Thomas from Wiltshire Farm Foods Haslingden comments: “We’re delighted to have such a great range of tasty meals and desserts for Autumn & Winter. If you can’t decide which of our delicious meals to choose, why not try one of our great value menu packs, offering a range of our most popular meals and desserts – it’s the perfect introduction to our range. Ordering is easy on the phone or online, and Wiltshire Farm Foods will deliver to your door free of charge.

Give my team a call on 01706 221759 - we’re happy to take your order or answer any questions you may have.”

With 20 years experience, Wiltshire Farm Foods has earned a reputation for delivering a first-class range of meals and outstanding customer service, so you can be confident in enjoying delicious, great value meals throughout the year.

The New Autumn/Winter 2011 menu from Wiltshire Farm FoodsCelebrating 20 years of great service

• Fantastic range of dishes, easily cooked in the oven or microwave• Convenient service from our friendly delivery drivers• Quality and variety of delicious frozen meals• Helping you maintain a balanced diet and independent lifestyle

We deliver so much more than meals

Main Courses:Chicken Breast Chicken & Vegetable PieRoast Beef & Yorkshire PuddingSausage Hotpot

Shepherds Pie Fish Mornay Mini MealDesserts: Apple Pie & Custard Lemon Sponge, Lemon Sauce & Custard

Strawberry Flavoured Ice Cream

Try our

£19.95for onlytaster pack

Meals from only£1.95

For your FREE brochure, call us on

To shop online visit www.wiltshirefarmfoods.com

0800 773 773

Delicious meals,friendly delivery

Post to: Wiltshire Farm Foods, FREEPOST Admail 3619, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 8ZY. (No stamp required)

NAME

ADDRESS

POSTCODE TEL

LP10

Please send me a FREE brochure

Please send me a Taster Pack (£19.95)

FREE Nationwide

Delivery

Please tick

WFF200_Delicious_A4_Portrait_col.indd 1 14/02/2011 16:28

An Award Winning MarketBury Market’s huge selection of fresh food and produce has

been praised the world over…but the only compliments we reallywant are from our customers!

At Bury Market you’ll discover over 350 stalls selling everythingfrom fresh food to the latest fashions – and a whole lot more!

Bury Market’s easy to find and even easier to enjoy.The world famous Bury Market located off junction 2 of the M66

– every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Bury town centre is also home to the Fusilier Museum, East Lancashire Railway, Bury Transport Museum and Bury Art Gallery

Bury Market Hallopen everydayexcept Sunday

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

“Winner NABMA’s”Best Market AttractionFull Markets OpenWednesdaysFridays andSaturdays

“Winner UK Coach Awards – Most Coach Friendly Shopping Attraction”


With nearly 40 years experience in delivering independence, security and peace of mind – we can help you make the most of your retirement years. St Vincent's retirement apartments have so much more to offer than simply a roof over your head. We have won awards for our retirement schemes which are designed specifically to meet the needs of senior members off the community.

Who are our retirement apartments for?Anyone at all who is either over 60 or has a disability. If you feel lonely, isolated from your family, or find your present home is becoming too much to manage, then moving to a St Vincent's retirement apartment could be the best move you will ever make.

A dedicated scheme manager Sarah Reed, has been providing support to the residents at Plessington Court in Longridge for 3 years now. Sarah is a fully trained chef, who enjoys organising and catering for events at the scene.

She is also proficient in IT and enjoys passing her knowledge on to the residents. Her experience in the field enables her to advise residents on accessing benefits and local services.

Company when you want itAll our retirement schemes have a communal lounge where residents can come together, if they wish, and meet for coffee mornings and other social activities , such as bingo and Christmas parties. At Plessington

Court, Sarah organises regular day trips, for example trips to the theatre. At the end of a busy day socialising, however, you can return to your apartment, and close your own front door.

All mod-consAll our retirement schemes have modern amenities-

• Plessington Court benefits from modern amenities such as the kitchens. If you have special requirement, e.g. lever taps, we will make sure the work is carried out for you free of charge.

• Independence with Security. Our retirement schemes are designed to give residents complete independence. You have your own apartment but residents’ security is a key concern for us. We have installed CCTV, a door entry system with intercom, boundary fencing, window locks and smoke alarm.

Lovely surroundings for our residents to enjoyResidents at all our retirement schemes enjoy the peace and tranquillity of delightful landscaped gardens. The grounds are maintained regularly by a gardener and provide a relaxing meeting place for summer BBQ’s or just a lazy afternoon with a book.

Local amenitiesPlessington Court is conveniently located with Longridge Town centre. There are many shops close by, with a bus stop and a regular bus service to Clithese and Preston just a short walk away.

Plessington is a delightful market town with many attractions, including a weekly market.

Take a look for yourselfIf you would like to take a look around the scheme and meet Sarah, the scheme manager, you

St Vincent’s Retirement Apartments

Mrs Mary Fielding - resident of

Plessington CourtMary has lived at plessington court for 21 years, and during this time she has seen many changes. She has made many good friends, and thinks that the Scheme Manager is perfect. Mary said that if she had her time again she would do the same again, because she is happy at Plessington Court, she said that "I have kept my sense of humour" and we can all agree this is important no matter what age you are!

would be more than welcome. See for yourself the benefits of at a St Vincent's retirement apartment, without any obligation.

And if you think a St Vincent's Retirement Apartment is for you We will do everything we can to make sure you settle into your new home. Our scheme manager will ensure you are out in touch with support agencies in the area, and help you find your feet.

We provide a welcome pack containing a lovely hessian shopping bag, a pen, mug, T-bags and coffee, energy saving light bulbs, bin bags and DIY voucher.

If you think a St Vincent's Retirement apartment is for you, or you would like to receive more information, ring Rose on 0161 772 2120.

www.svha.co.uk

manager

For more information about Plessington court, give Jane a call on 0161 772 2120

Telephone: 0845 050 0570.


NOT very long ago visits to the gym were deemed to be the exclusive domain of

the young - but all that has changed dramatically in the Noughties.

These days, go into the average gym, especially during the day when attractive cheap off-peak rates may apply, and you’ll see plenty of older people intent on keeping as fit as they can. And they will probably be using a comprehensive range of equipment with surprising proficiency.

So, at a time of your life usually associated with relaxing and getting away from the daily hurly-burly, why exercise at all?

Well, research proves that we can slow down many aspects of the ageing process by staying physically active for as long as possible. Physiotherapist Keith Johnstone – based at David Roberts Physiotherapy and helping sports stars like cricketer Andrew Flintoff back to fitness – points out that there have been huge surgical advances in the last few decades that help keep us mobile.

“Today,” he adds, “people in their 50s and 60s also have very different health and fitness expectations than their parents.”

This makes them not only more likely to exercise regularly, but to expect their retirement years to be more active. The fact that friends and former work colleagues of a similar age-group may well be doing the same - and that the gym has also now become a social place for the over-50s - means that you are quite likely to make new friends there and recognise familiar faces.

The benefits of regular exercise have long been acknowledged by experts across the medical world. They know it can reduce the risk of developing heart disease and stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and back pain, high blood pressure,

even some cancers like bowel cancer.

It can also improve muscle strength and tone, which may mean that you’re less likely to have an accident or a fall that could lead to an injury. And when you consider that falls put a million people a year into hospital in the UK, exercise can make a major difference.

Then there is an increase in flexibility – definitely something many of us lose as our bodies age – mobility, speed and stamina.

For anyone wanting to lose weight, an exercise routine linked to a sensible diet is more likely to get results. These will not just be visible in pounds and inches either; posture will improve and you’ll walk taller which is an added feelgood factor.

While many forms of exercise are good for us as we get older – including gardening, walking, cycling, DIY and swimming – going to the gym has the added bonus of a new and challenging experience.

Of course, fitness levels as we get older vary dramatically. Where one 65 year-old might be running marathons, another might find it difficult to walk any distance without help.

It is getting started, however, that is the most important thing – something to focus on which has healthy benefits for you and a new routine.

The “bull at a gate” approach to exercise is not recommended here, especially if you’ve not exercised for some time and/or have particular health problems. Your GP should be your first port of call to check out your overall health and get practical advice on what you are, and are not, able to do.

If your GP is happy about you starting exercise, consider a local gym as one good way forward. Most areas have a gym within reasonable reach, and some have several, so weigh up which might be the best

Exercise - the benefits are endless...for you. Go along and have a look around if you’re not sure, and ask questions.

Don’t be daunted by the wealth of machines and their complexity, either. There is usually an explanation on the piece of equipment as to what it does and how to use it, but it’s always best to get advice on suitability and use from gym staff before you embark on anything new.

Exercise can play an important part in managing health conditions, like heart problems, and is certainly essential in recovery from hip and knee replacements and other surgery.

Muscles and other tissues that hold joints together weaken when they aren’t moved enough, so joints lose their shape and function. Exercise helps lessen the symptoms and can help you feel better overall.

Moderate stretching exercises will help relieve any pain and keep the muscles and tendons around any affected joint more flexible and strong. Low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, water aerobics and stationary cycling can all reduce pain while maintaining strength and flexibility.

Strength training, properly performed, can provide significant functional benefits and improvement in overall health and well-being, including increased bone, muscle, tendon and ligament strength and toughness. It improves joint function, reduces the potential for injury, increases bone density, elevates HDL (good) cholesterol and it also improves the function of the heart.

You don’t need to invest in large amounts of equipment or even costly sportswear to get the best from the gym. Loose clothing like tracksuit bottoms and a t-shirt and suitable trainers,are fine for fitness sessions.


Using Colour That is Best for your Room SizePaint is the easiest way to make a dramatic change in the way a room looks. You can even change the perception of the size of the room with the right wall colour. By using the right combinations of colours; dark or light, warm or cool, you can create the illusion of expanding or reducing the size a space.

Painting a room white can create a bright and airy impression, but white can also feel uninspired or sterile. Adding colour to a room can give the space personality. Sticking with lighter colours will still make the space feel larger, but a darker colour can make a room feel cozy and welcoming. When thinking of paint colours, in addition to considering light and dark, think of warm or cool tones. Warm colours are reds, yellows, browns and oranges. Cool colours are blues and greens. Whites and greys can be cool or warm depending on the tint.

If you want your room to look larger, use cool shades in lighter tones. Cool colours give the impression of the walls being further away and opening up your space. Painting the trim and moldings around a room can also have an effect on the room’s apparent size. Painting the trim a lighter colour than the wall can also push the wall out visually. Simply doing the opposite, darker colours in warm tones with dark trim, visually pulls the walls in closer to create a more intimate feeling space. This works well in very large rooms giving them a more intimate atmosphere and less like a cathedral.

The shape of a room can be visually altered with a simple wall colour change by using accent colours. Just as painting a whole room in a light, cool colour can enlarge the feel of the room; the same idea can be applied to seemingly move the walls. If you have a long narrow room, painting the furthest walls in a dark colour and the long walls and ceiling in a light colour, the room will feel more square than narrow. This technique works great in hallways that can sometimes feel like a tunnel.

With a little paint and creativity you can change the look and even size of any room in your house. Keeping in mind how the space will be used and the overall feel you want to create there is almost no limit to what can be achieved.

Make a Small Room Appear LargerKeep in mind that cool colours, such as blues and green, recede, which make a room look bigger. Warm colours, such as red and orange, make a room appear smaller. Opt for a cool or pastel colour or white paint when attempting to visually expand a room. Light colours reflect light and make a room appear more expansive than it actually is. Use a light colour on your ceiling, perhaps even lighter than the wall colour, to make thea ceiling appear higher. The room will appear larger as a result.

Consider using light coloured carpeting. A dark floor covering will make the room appear smaller.

Mix pale colours with cool colours to enlarge a room. The less differentiation in colours (the walls versus the window frames, molding and baseboard) the bigger the room will seem. A chopped up room will feel and appear smaller.

Widen a narrow room by using white or pale colours on the walls.

Make a Large Room Appear SmallerUse warm colours, reds orange, yellow, to make a large room appear quaint and cozy.

Lower the ceiling (albeit not literally) by painting it a darker shade than the walls. If that still doesn’t do the trick, use the ceiling colour and apply the paint to the top 12 inches or so of your walls and then add molding underneath. The molding breaks up space, which you want to do when you’re trying to make a room appear smaller. Bringing the darker ceiling colour down the top of the wall will make the room look less vast. Think of the ceiling as a hat and the top of the walls, also painted in the ceiling colour, as the brim of the hat.

Use a dark coloured carpet, which will make the room appear smaller.

Shorten the length of a room by painting the farthest wall a darker colour than the other walls.

Changing RoomsSimple tips to transform any room


How to Lengthen a RoomIf you have a small room in your house, you can easily achieve the illusion of length. This can be done in two ways. If you like bold statements then simply paint a couple of horizontal lines in a bold colour across the middle of the wall in which you want to lengthen. These lines then naturally create the illusion of increased length in the room. An alternative way to do this, and a more subtle way, is to use pictures.

By strategically placing art pictures or photographs with any kind of strong horizontal line in the print, can accomplish the illusion of length. For example, if you chose two or three long rectangular pictures with horizontal panoramic prints such as ocean & beach pictures, fields, or scenic mountain pictures, then this will help extend the length of the room naturally.

Two, three or more of these horizontal landscape pictures will give the maximum impact you are looking for to help lengthen a small room. Also bear in mind not to overdo the room with furniture. Too much clutter makes a room appear smaller.

How to Broaden a Narrow RoomIf you have a room which is a bit on the narrow side, there is a simple strategy to make the room appear broader. All you need is a tin of paint, a wall mirror and a large colourful wall picture. Get your tin of paint, which should preferably be a darker contrasting colour to your other walls, and paint one of the walls with this darker paint. Find a colourful and lively large painting and hang it on the wall you have just painted - colourful flower pictures are ideal for this.

On the wall adjacent to your picture, hang a decorative large mirror. What has happened here is that the mirror reflects on the large picture, and the additional darker colour on the wall has immediately given the room some much-needed depth. This combination will then make the room appear wider.

By adding these simple additions to your narrow room, you have instantly created a balance in the room’s dimensions giving the sensation of additional space.

How to Heighten a Low CeilingRooms with low ceilings give an oppressive feeling, whereas rooms with a high ceiling give a light and airy feel with a large amount of space. To overcome the problem of a low ceiling, there are a couple of interior design strategies to use.

The Basic Role of PicturesWall art plays an important role in interior design as it helps create the ambience of a room. By cleverly placing wall pictures in certain ways, you can change and create a new look and feel in a room.

The role wall pictures play in interior design are:-

• pictures, mirrors or other ornamental accessories on walls help make the room look ‘lived in’ and they also inject your personality into the room

• colour pictures and prints help connect with the rooms accent

• pictures help absorb noise in a room, otherwise a room with totally bare walls will sound empty and will have an echo

• pictures and prints can help enhance or change a room’s ‘look and feel’.


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Link your monochromatic-scheme room to adjoining spaces by continuing the main colour and accent colour, although you can introduce another colour or two. For example, a white living room with forest-green accents could segue into an entryway with pale sage-green walls, evergreen and buttercream-yellow accents, and a white floor and white moldings.

First of all put down a darker floor covering, whether it be a wooden floor, carpet or lino. Paint the walls with a lighter colour than the floor, or use light coloured wallpaper. If you can, use white paint for the ceiling as this always gives the room maximum light and instantly draws the eyes upwards.

Hang up wall pictures with strong vertical lines as this then gives the impression of height. Use portrait prints such as vertical landscapes, i.e. lighthouses, trees, cityscapes, or floral prints such as flowers in a vertical vase or tall long stem roses. Therefore, by combining the dark floor, light walls and ceiling and portraits prints, all adds to the sense of height in a room.

Art pictures and prints play an important role in home decorating for several reasons. They do not only reflect and put your own personality into the room, but they can also help as a solution to change the look and feel of a room by giving the illusion of height, width and length. This can easily be achieved by combining wall pictures, contrasting colours and decorative mirrors.

How to Create a Monochromatic Colour Scheme in a RoomIn a monochromatic colour scheme, one colour completely dominates a room. Here are some ways to carry it off with high style.

Go with a neutral such as white, off-white, taupe, grey or beige for a sophisticated, versatile, serene scheme. Add contrast by varying the colour values - for instance, use toast, wheat and buff in a beige scheme.

Vary the textures and sheens in the room to add subtle shifts in shading. A beige room could include a matte bleached-oak floor, a sisal rug, orange-peel-texture semigloss walls, a chenille sofa, a suede recliner and unstained maple tables.

Use ultra-strong textures - a springy shag rug, wide-wale corduroy or a chenille throw - to add a cozy counterpoint where the colour might seem overly cold, as in a grey or blue-white room.Put tiny sparks of colour in multiple places in the room to add vitality. For example, use a painting with a bold splash of red paint, a bowl of red apples, a vase of red tulips, a red telephone and/or a red velvet pillow in a white living room. Never use the accent colour just once; multiple uses ensure unity and cohesiveness in your scheme.


Quality Design l Realistic Prices

Quality Design l Realistic Prices

Kitchens l Bedrooms l Bathrooms l Eco Friendly

•2010RossendaleBusinessAward2010•2009EnvironmentalChampionWinnersAward

Establishedforover40yearsPartofJ&JOrmerodFurnitureManufacturersForkeenprices,quickturnaroundandfinancialsecuritySatelliteshowroominOswaldtwistleMills

01254 304068www.rossendaleinteriors.com l email: [email protected] Newchurch Road, Stacksteads, Bacup OL13 0LDTel: 01706 252122

12 Months 'Buy Now Pay Later'


The birds are getting busy. Yesterday I saw a magpie disappearing into the holly tree with a stick almost twice its length. Nesting has begun and at last, spring has arrived.

I've just had a good look at my garden, checking out the casualties of a hard winter, and I'm quite pleasantly surprised. Apart from a blue Hebe (Alicia Amherst), the flowering shrubs have survived, as have the hellebores, which are giving a wonderful show amongst the daffodils, and one of my favourite early flowers, the Japanese quince, is showing fat pink buds and will be in full flower in a week.

Gardening these days gets easier. Take that old perennial - lawn raking. Once it was a back breaking exercise, needing hard, sustained raking to remove the thatch and moss. Now, it's as easy as mowing the grass, and there's a huge range of electric rakers available. Just plug and push. It's amazing how much debris these remove. I've been using one of these for several years now, and my lawn is vastly improved as a result. It's light and compact, with an easy to remove collection box.

Another labour saver is the grass strimmer. Easy to use, and perfect for those difficult to mow areas under trees or on coarse wilder areas.

I've also had a major rethink about composting. Those huge compost bins are a nightmare to empty, so this year, I've invested in a compost tumbler, which produces compost much faster, because the tumbling process mixes air more efficiently into the waste, allowing bacteria to work faster. It's also much easier to collect the compost.

After years of balancing precariously on stools and flower pots to water my hanging baskets, I've finally invested in a gadget for reaching these safely and with ease. It's a rigid, tubular wand which can be fitted to a hosepipe, and I can reach into the very heart of the flowers in the baskets, and water at the roots, rather than soaking the flowers.

Water charges are going up, so I've installed two water butts. One full size, on a stand, and placed under a

downpipe from the roof, and a smaller butt, under a down pipe near the greenhouse. Tap water has chlorine, which plants hate, so rainwater is very much better for garden plants.

Last year I decided it was time to make my garden less labour intensive, by going for shrubs and perennials rather than annual bedding plants. For a start, it cut out the cost of all those plants which have to be hardened off and bedded out, and the good thing

about perennials is the way they can be divided at the end of the summer, so you get two or three for the price of one. Lupins are especially useful. If you deadhead them regularly, they'll produce more flowers, and they're often used as green manure crop, because of their nitrogen fixing qualities, so at the end of the summer, the dead leaves are good in the compost bin. Hostas are another wonderful addition to any garden. With their huge leaves and spires of white or blue flowers, I love the contrast that can be achieved using them in a planting, especially as they're available in a huge range of sizes, and leaf shades varying from gold to green and white.

Gardens get smaller as land prices increase, but it's amazing how much even the smallest garden can produce. Strawberries and tomatoes in pots or grow bags, and runner beans up fences.

Lettuce in troughs for a constant salad supply, and radish seeds in any odd spot. Sow every two to three weeks, for the pleasure of pulling crisp radishes to enjoy with your lunch.

Our grandparents knew about productive gardening. They grew their herbs amongst the flowers, where the blue flowered rosemary was as beautiful as it was useful. The grey leaved sage was a perfect foil for flowers, and golden oregano with its purple flower heads attracted bees and butterflies. So take a fresh look at your garden. Maybe it's perfect as it is, but are there any odd spots which could be improved? I know there's always room for improvement in my garden. I'm off out there now, to decide what can be done with a weed infested spot behind the shed.

GARDENING MADE EASY


Scarcely a month seems to go by without bad news from gas and electricity suppliers and the reality for many of us – especially older people on a fixed

income – is colder homes and a poorer quality of life.

However, there are plenty of ways we can help ourselves – from simply blocking draughts and lining curtains to ensuring you have the right benefits and payments. You might also take advantage of available grants and help with home insulation.

First of all, it’s worth looking at the areas around your home where heat is lost, and walls account for around a third of this. An uninsulated loft can be blamed for a quarter of lost heat, and insulating hot water tanks and pipes keeps water hot for longer.

Draught-proofing is a cheap and cost-effective way to reduce your heating bills; double glazing can significantly cut heat loss through windows. You can also save on heating costs by installing heating controls, and if your boiler is over 15 years old you might want to consider changing it to make it more energy efficient.

Since April, 2005, if you’ve installed a new boiler or replaced an existing one, it’s very likely you will have had to have a condensing boiler. These not only meet higher standards for energy efficiency but also help you save on your annual heating bills.

There may be financial help available if you want to improve heating in your home. The Warm Front grants’ programme is currently fully allocated, but householders aged 60 or over may still receive a grant of up to £300 (the heating rebate) for the provision or replacement of certain heating systems. Find out more from Warm Front at www.warmfront.co.uk or tel 0800 316 2805.

Your local council may also have a home improvement scheme giving grants, loans, materials or other help.

But it’s important to get this sorted now before Winter sets in, and before next year when prices will definitely go up. Fortunately, most councils around the country will currently have schemes in place to help.

You may be entitled to Cold Weather Payments if you are receiving benefits while Winter Fuel Payments provide

help with fuel bills for most pensioner households, irrespective of income or savings and they’re not taxable. Find out more from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) Winter Fuel Payments helpline on 0845 915 1515.

Energy providers have to offer social tariffs to consumers who are struggling to pay their bills. Eligibility criteria changes with different suppliers so contact yours if you’re having difficulty here. Electricity and gas companies may also help you to improve home energy efficiency.

If you are 70 or over and receiving certain benefits, you may be able to get free cavity wall and/or loft insulation. Contact The Energy Saving Trust to find out more on www.energysavingtrust.org.uk or call 0800 512 012. And there is advice for vulnerable customers on keeping warm and reducing energy costs from Home Heat on www.homeheathelpline.org.uk or by phone at 0800 33 6699.

LOFT INSULATION helps save energy and money, keeping warmth inside the home. It’s ideal if you have an accessible loft with no damp or condensation problems, although blown insulation (with loose, fire-retardant material and carried out by a professional installer) can be used for lofts with difficult access.

Installing loft insulation blankets or “quilts” can be a straightforward job but does need to be carried out to a high standard to avoid unnecessary wastage,

Ways to cut your FUEL BILLS

THE soaring price of energy means that the cost of running a home is at its highest level for three years and makes Winter an even chillier prospect.


so consider hiring a professional. Again, The Energy Saving Trust can give you free, impartial advice and put you in touch with a local installer.

CAVITY WALL INSULATION is very effective in homes built from 1920 onwards because the chances are their external walls are made of two layers with a small gap, or cavity, between them which is where the insulating material goes.

It’s so cost effective that it pays for itself over and over again – you cut heating costs, save energy and your household produces less CO2.

Newer technologies mean that the Government is offering Renewable Heat Premium Payments to help people afford them. These systems include solar panels, heat pumps and biomass boilers.

SOLAR PANELS can be installed no matter how you currently heat your home, but if you rely on oil, liquid gas, solid fuel or electricity then you could also apply for air, ground or water source heat pumps and biomass boilers. The Energy Saving Trust has full details.

Solar panels involve two technologies – one goes directly to heating your hot water (solar thermal) and the other generates electricity (solar photovoltaic or solar PV).

The benefits of solar water heating are enormous as the system works all year round, although you will need the help of a boiler or immersion heater during Winter months. Sunlight is free, however, so you immediately cut your bills and, once you’ve paid for the initial panel installation, hot water costs are reduced. As solar hot water is a green, renewable heating system, it can also reduce home carbon dioxide emissions.

You don’t normally need planning permission for solar panels and most conventional boilers are compatible with them. Maintenance costs are low and there is a Government grants’ scheme already in place which is set for an increase next year. With solar PV, you get

paid for the electricity you generate through the Government’s Feed In Tariff.

When investing in a Solar PV installation, your chosen contractor should be MCS Accredited and ‘REAL’ Approved. These standards guarantee that you are in safe and capable hands and that work completed on your property is completed to the highest standards.Lancashire based Solar PV installers William Dyer Electrical (UK) Limited are REAL Approved, NICEIC MCS Accredited Installers. They are also one of the country’s leading Electrical Energy Efficiency Contractors.

Having established an unblemished reputation over 20+ years in business, their team of highly qualified, experienced installers have the expertise to deal with all electrical installations.

Choosing this well established, highly qualified Solar PV Installation Contractor means that clients can rest assured that installations are carried out to the highest industry standards and of the highest quality.To find out more about the Solar PV installations offered by William Dyer Electrical, call 01706 212 815 to arrange a free quotation.

Independent money guru Martin Lewis offers Eight Energy Bill Cutting Rules on his website www.moneysavingexpert.com

• Don’tassumedualfuelisalwaysthecheapest–alsocomparethecostofthecheapestdualfuel supplier with separate cheap gas and electricity suppliers.• Doswitchtomonthlydirectdebit–fixedmonthlydirectdebitpaymentssaveyou5-10%andearn interest on overpayments.• Doameterreadingeverytime–don’trelyonyourenergyprovider’sestimateastheycanbewayout.• Doswitchtoyourcompany’sinternettariff–itwillusuallysaveyou10%overthestandardtariff• Avoidpre-paymentmetersifyoucan–trytoswitchtoabilledmeter• Considerafinancialhardshiptariff–somecompaniesofferspecialcheapertariffsifyou’reinfinancial trouble• Grab£1,000sofgrants• Uselessenergy

AgeUKhasafactsheetonallenergy-relatedmattersifyougotowww.ageuk.org.ukorcall08001696565.

Thinking of Solar PV in Lancashire?

DOMESTIC CONSUMERS CAN EARN UP TO£70,000

with guaranteed feed in tariffs over 25 years!!! *

COMMERCIAL/BUSINESS USER'S CAN EARN UP TO£500,000with guaranteed feed in tariffs

over 25 years!!! *

Why choose William Dyer Electrical (UK) Ltd for your Solar PV installation?William Dyer Electrical UK Ltd has been based and trading in Lancashire for 20 years and Solar PV is another professional service that is offered along with many other services.

In simple terms we have a vast experience in electrical installation projects and are members of all the regulatory bodies which you would expect from a leading electrical contractor and unlike many solar PV companies we have vast trading experience.

VISIT our website for further information atwww.wmdyer.co.uk01706 212 815Unit 2, The Courtyard, Grane Road, Haslingden BB4 4QN

*Terms & Conditions apply

SYSTEMS FULLY

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

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

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

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

Your Dentures need Attention

Quality dentures mean a quality lifestyle

The Importance of DenturesThe eyes, nose and teeth are the focal points of every face; they give the first impressions of your personality.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. When they become loose.2. When teeth or denture base discolours.3. When tooth surfaces become flat.4. When denture base does not fit around natural teeth (in partial dentures).5. When you develop deep lines around your mouth.6. When your chin sticks out, and the corners of your lips are constantly wet, developing sores.7. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed.

Your Dentures need Attention


Loose Dentures

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

Dentures with worn down teeth

Teeth can be replaced with a new set.

Major improvements in FacialFeatures

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

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

Difficulties in Constructing a Good Set of Dentures

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

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

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

What is a Clinical Dental Technician?Professional Clinical Dental Technicians are members of the Dental Health Care Team. They have undergone specific training and education in the skills and knowledge necessary to provide a removable appliance service directly to the community.

Equipped with solid technical training as a Dental Technician - plus post-technician training in sciences, clinical skills, and interpersonal skills - the Clinical Dental Technician can design, create, construct and modify (repair and rebase) removable appliances to ensure optimal fit, maximum comfort and general well-being of patients.

These skills enable the Clinical Dental Technician, whilst remaining a member of the Dental Health Care Team, to work independently of other Dental Health Care providers.

A fully qualified local Clinical Dental Technician is Marcus Massey of Pendle Denture Centre, he was introduced to the world of Denturism at the side of his father John.

At the age of sixteen he studied Fine Art and gained his first Diploma.

In 1994, he studied Dental Technology at Manchester University and Dental Hospital, he then attended The George Brown College of Applied Arts and Technology and in 2003 graduated with his Diploma in Denturism.

In 2008, he received a Diploma in Clinical Dental Technology from the Royal College of Surgeons. Also in 2008 he registered with the General Dental Council as a Dental Technician - verified experience in dental technology and also Clinical Dental Technician.

Marcus MasseyRegistered Clinical Dental TechnicianDIP CLIN DENT TECH RCS Eng.

UNIQUE DENTURESNew dentures made by dental technician Direct to the public.

Marcus Massey, Dip. Clin Dent Tech. Rcs eng.Craig Farrell, BChdPendle Dental Laboratory

BB9 7LP01282 692225

Barrowford Dental PracticeBB9 8ND

01282 611844

H E A LT H


Aquarius Wet Roomthe ultimate answer to bathing difficulties exclusively available from Bathing Solutions

Say goodbye to bathtime struggles when you completely replace your existing bathroom with the Aquarius Wet Room.

By waterproofing and then tiling the entire floor, it means there’s no tray to step over and no door to open or close; it’s the ultimate in easy-access, safe showering.

Complete the totally new look by choosing sanitary ware from our superb range and make bathing difficulty a thing of the past with the Aquarius Wet Room.

Completely replaces all your existing bathroom fixtures and fittings

Choice of colours for wall panels & floor tiles

Open, easy-access entry; no doors

0800 783 1912 PLEASE quotE oFFER REFEREncE RMWR91

For a free copy of our 28 page brochure call free on

Glass side panel secured to wall

Optional fold up seat for added comfort

Mosaic tiled floor with fast drain; choice of colours

No shower tray to step over – floor is same level throughout the room

Please send me a brochure on your range of easy-access showers and walk-in baths.

Name

Tel No.

Address

Postcode Bathing Solutions and other group companies may send you information and offers in the future. Please tick box if you do not wish to receive information from us or third parties in the future.

Post coupon to: Bathing Solutions, FREEPOST SWC3136, Ledbury, HR8 2ZZ

RMWR91

www.safebathing.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Tuesday 14th DecemberRossendaleHospice’sLightUpALifeService–St James the Less Church, Burnley Rd, Rawtenstall BB4 8HH.

This event allows you the opportunity to remember your loved one in a candlelit ceremony where your dedication will appear on a screen.

There will be joyful Christmas Carols, played by 2nd Rossendale Scout Band and Helmshore Primary School choir. We do hope you are able to join us.

If you wish to make a dedication or for further information contact the Hospice 01706 253633 opt 3.

Friday 2nd December Christmas Ball at The Riverside, Whitworth Civic Hall, Market St, Whitworth OL12 8DP.

Back by popular demand Jimmy Eaton will be hosting his Christmas party along with David Edmondson with a change of venue. Tickets are priced at £30 which will include a 5 course meal, entertainment, auction and raffle with comedian Jed Stone as your host.

This is a fundraising event for Rossendale Hospice. Tickets are limited and will be sold on a first come first served basis. For further details contact Jimmy on 07917 627 337.

Wednesday 12th October‘Walk in’ from all corners of Blackburn with Darwenand a mass zumba dance outside Blackburn Town Hall, 1-2pmplus information stands and freebies

Friday 14th OctoberTombola and information standsin Darwen Market9.30am-12.30pm

Come and join us to find out more about Age UK Blackburn with Darwen – the new name for Age Concern Blackburn with Darwen

Black Tie and Pearls19th November 2011 7pm till lateDunkenhalgh Hotel, Blackburn Rd, Clayton-le-Moors. Lancs. BB5 5JP

30th Anniversary of Heads Above.Raising money for Rossendale and East Lancs Hospices

3 course meal, auction, D.J., live entertainment from The Swing Commanders. Tickets £40pp.

Contact Heads Above 01706 228609or call in at 47 Deardengate, Haslingden. BB4 5QN


You've earned your retirement somake the most of it

A common misconception of retirement housing is, that it is likened to living in a residential home with shared washing and kitchen facilities with little space or privacy, however this couldn't be further from the truth. Twin Valley Homes' retirement housing is not an 'old people's home' at all. The Blackburn with Darwen Housing Association promotes totally independent living in a safe environment through improved mobility, good health and safety. Feeling dependant on others can be very frustrating; the staff at Twin Valley Homes will support you in your independence. Everyone has their own support plan and dedicated staff are available to point you in the right direction of services that can help with personal care, shopping, cleaning and medication should you require it. In addition our own benefit advisors are

available to assist and advise on benefits and pensions. Friends and family are important and they are always welcome, add to this the built in community on your doorstep, being snowed in or lonely need never be a concern again. All available properties are let through the B-with-us scheme and are advertised each week from Thursday until the following Tuesday. You can see what is available in a number of ways:

l Via your TV: QuickCode TVTV 8888.l Website: www.twinvalleyhomes.coml Phone: 01254 269115l Email: [email protected] Website:www.b-with-us.coml Phone: 0300 123 22 00

YouniqueEveryone needs a helping hand at sometime or other. Whether it's a friendly voice on the end of a telephone line or having someone there to help you out with the challenges that life throws at you, there'll come a time when everyone needs support. And with the acclaimed Younique service from Housing Pendle, you'll have the help when and where you need it. Because everyone is individual, the Younique package allows you to tailor the service specifically to your needs. Think of it like a pick 'n' mix approach to independent living - you only pick the services you need. And because it's such a flexible service, anyone can use it - it doesn't matter what age you are. And as we use the latest technology, the options are as plentiful as they are remarkable. Some of the services carry a charge but it just depends on your circumstances.

Life is for living so live it your way by choosing Younique - it's a service as individual as you are. Younique livingHome is where the heart is - and that's where you want to be. So for that reason, our innovative Younique Living service is becoming ever more popular with customers. With Younique Living, you can continue to live at home but have access to the services you need, when you need them. When you become a Younique customer, we'll draw up a support plan to make sure you get the support you want. This could include regular home visits, help with benefits and bills, contacting family, friends and support services and also helping you to find out about and get involved in social activities. One of our highly-trained Community Support Visitors will regularly visit, provide support and work with you and help you make the right choices to keep you healthy and happy in your own home. And don't forget this service also includes a Younique Contact base unit and pendant alarm so help is at hand 24 hours a day. For more information call thel Younique Team on 0300 456 4590 or Typetalk on 18002 0300 456 4590. Home visits by arrangement.l Email: [email protected] Via the web: www.housingpendle.co.ukl Via your TV: QuickCode HPTV 4788.

The Together Housing Group is a leading provider of quality affordable and modern homes for rent across the North of England. The Group was formed on 1st April 2011 following the partnering of three well established housing groups;• Trans-PennineHousing:- Pennine Housing 2000 in Calderdale and Sheffield & Green Vale Homes in Pennine Lancashire• Chevin Housing:- Chevin Housing Association, Harewood Housing Society, and Synergy Housing Solutions operating in the Yorkshire and Humber regions• Prospect Homes:- Twin Valley Homes & Housing Pendle, both in Pennine Lancashire. Spread across the North of England, the group combines decades of skill and experience who between them manages over 35,000 homes affecting over 50,000 people’s lives and employing over 1,250 staff. Each partner company retains its local identity for local communities. But backed up by the shared skills and expertise of the Together Housing Group we aim to give better services and value to our customers, and achieve our mission of Making a Better Future Together.

Retirement living at its best in Blackburn and Darwen

Retirement Living with

Twin Valley Homes provides a range of living options

that give people the opportunity to live independently

and the confidence to enjoy life to the full.

A choice of studio apartments, flats and bungalows

Value for money rents

Security and friendship

Your own front door

24-hour reassurance

A reputable landlord

For more information contact Twin Valley Homes

01254 269210 Please quote ref: RET10/11

11208 TVH Retired Magazine A4 Ad_v1.indd 1 17/08/2011 15:45

Step by step guide to how the system worksIf you:• have fallen• have a domestic emergency• are unwell• are frightened• are a victim of crime• are alone or isolated

Press your pendant to activate the base unit and connect you with the Younique Team, which is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

One of our dedicated team of Response Coordinators can then speak to you and get the appropriate help you need.

Contact

Peace of mind for you and your familySupporting you to keep your independence…Secure in the knowledge that help is at hand.

A service as individual as you are

For a FREE demonstration and information on pricing please call

01282 873767or Typetalk on:18002 01282 873767Email: [email protected] the web: www.housingpendle.co.ukPlease quote ref: RET10/11

11209 HP Retired Magazine Ad_v1.indd 1 17/08/2011 15:46

Showley Brook Residential Home for the Elderly is a 15 bedroom care home providing an excellent standard of care and support for the over 65s. All our rooms are single rooms, with either ensuite or nearby bathroom and toilet facilities. All rooms have wash handbasin.

Showley Brook Residential Home for the Elderly

10, Knowsley Road, Wilpshire, Blackburn BB1 9PX | Tel: 01254 248188


We are located on a quiet lane in Wilpshire, and are surrounded by fields, trees and have Showley Brook running through the rear garden.

We have an excellent local reputation and have been awarded 2 stars by the Care Quality Commission. We pride ourselves on being flexible and responsive to the individual needs of our residents – supporting and assisting as necessary whilst maintaining as much resident independence as possible.

We offer long and short term care, and can provide respite and day care.

The majority of our staff are trained to a minimum NVQ II in Health & Social Care and all senior carers have gained NVQ level III or level IV in Health & Social Care. We are committed to ongoing training and development to ensure that our staff are skilled, knowledgeable and competent to look after your loved one.

We have 2 trained cooks who provide good wholesome and nutritious food. We are able to cater for most types of diet and preferences. We also provide a small number of meals on wheels to the local community and feedback is very positive.

Our domestic has recently qualified at NVQ II in Hospitatlity Services and is soon to be undertaking her level III qualification. She is responsible for ensuring that the home is kept clean and odour free, and has a particular interest in infection control and reducing the risks to staff and residents.

At Showley Brook we have a long standing reputation for providing a high level of care in a quiet, comfortable and friendly environment. We are small enough to be flexible and responsive to your needs. Most of our staff have been employed for many years and are committed to their job of caring for the frail and elderly.

Showley Brook Residential Home for the Elderly

www.showleybrook.co.uk

Mealsfrom only£1.95

Delicious meals,friendly delivery

FREENationwide

Delivery

LP10

We deliver so much more than tasty mealsTo request your FREE brochure call0800 773 773 To shop online visit www.wiltshirefarmfoods.com

01706 221759

blackburn & burnley issue 34

Documents

complete eye examination

routine eye tests

blackburn burnley edition

s explosionfriday

regular health examination

external examination

morrisons superstore

favourite dishes