yours magazine #67

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Transform your health

‘WHY I’M SAYING GOODBYE TO MIDSOMER’

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‘My daily battle to stay

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YOUR067-cover.indd 1 7/7/09 14:45:09your067-cover.pgs 07.07.2009 13:47 Rival Colour LTD BLACK YELLOW MAGENTA CYAN PANTONE 185 C

Welcome…I’m looking forward to the latest series of New Tricks – Amanda Redman didn’t want to give too much away when we interviewed her (p6), but she promises there are some surprises in store for her character on the personal front.

I hope it includes bringing Sheila Hancock back as her wonderfully acerbic mum…

One of the joys of this job is reading your letters and emails for Meeting Place (p49) and they can often provide some of the liveliest comment in each issue. So to say thank you, we’ve doubled the prize value from this issue. We’ve also got part two of our £1,000 cash prize quiz on page 83. You don’t need to have fi lled in part one, as long as you can work out the answer to the fi rst question – so it’s worth having a go…

Valery McConnell, Editor

this fortnight…

Join us now… have fun, meet friends, share advice and discover great deals… www.yours.co.uk

I’mseRminpsc

I hope it includ

Valery

Inside

ce deals…

kk

REAL LIFE 8 Gran’s dress is a winner

16 COVER A baby at 72?

24 ‘I’m a surrogate gran of fi ve’

26 Old at 64? Not any more

28 Do you believe in angels?

30 What’s your over-50 label?

72 ‘I became a model’

CAMPAIGNING 10 ‘My battle for wardens’

100 Last chance to vote for our Care

Home of the Year

STAR CHAT 6 COVER Amanda Redman as 50 looms

12 COVER Mollie Sugden’s fi nal interview

14 COVER Why John Nettles will be solving

his last Midsomer murder

NOSTALGIA33 We did it fi rst... maxi dresses

52 The swimsuit styles you wore

54 I remember... life as an actress

HEALTH & DIET35 Recharge your health

37 Ask Dr Jonty

40 ‘I beat claustrophobia’

43 Reclaim your waist

FASHION & BEAUTY44 Accessorise your summer

45 A beauty dilemma solved

PS: Anyone coming to London this summer and looking for a heart-warming play, should book tickets for

Carrie’s War. Woven around a story of wartime evacuees, with adults playing the children, it also has wonderful performances from Prunella Scales, above, and Kacey Ainsworth (EastEnders Little Mo). Older grandchildren would enjoy it too. It’s on at the Apollo Theatre until mid-September. The Box Offi ce number is 0207 494 5070.

We know not all Yours readers own or want to use a computer, so we make every effort to give phone numbers as well as websites, but sometimes offers or information are only available online. You can access a computer, with help, at local libraries – often for free. So don’t miss out!

Advertising query? Diane Pitts is here to help if you have a query with an advert or offer in Yours. Call her on 01733 468444 9am-1pm, Mon-Fri. For other queries and contact details see page 118.

Yours

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COVER THE YOURSPULL-OUT

Your good health at 50, 60 and 70+

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‘I want to look sophisticated’

LEISURE TIME74 Cooking – a tasty low-fat sweet

77 Gardening: new series

80 Travel: holidays in TV locations

83 COVER Bumper puzzle section

129 Your horoscope

EXPERT ADVICE21 Moneywise

38 Your problem solved

39 Sexpert Julie Peasgood

93 Ask us anything

127 Make every penny count

YOUR FAVOURITES49 Meeting place – your letters

61 Roy Hudd

94 Yours fortnightly short story

98 Carers in touch

107 Friends of Yours

130 Lynda Bellingham’s look at life

VALUE FOR MONEY62 FREE*! Lorraine Kelly fi tness

DVD for every reader

88 Win a holiday for two or one

of 50 other prizes

90 Fab goodies just for you

116 FREE knitting pattern

60 and 70+

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YOUR067-03 Contents.indd 3 7/7/09 15:24:15

4 YOURS // EVERY FORTNIGHT

A big thumbs up goes to the very brave June Brown for agreeing to strip off for her new role in the stage show Calendar Girls. At 82, June is the oldest of the ladies to cast off her clothes. It is a far cry from her role as God-fearing Dot Cotton in EastEnders but we know June will be sensational. According to David Pugh, the show’s producer, June is happy to be “a little more brave in the part”. But we couldn’t help being slightly puzzled at the tender age of some of June’s fellow stars, especially when the whole idea of Calendar Girls is to celebrate the ripening of beauty that comes with age. You can see June in her new role from July 28 to October 17.

The view from this fortnight…

69ON JULY 27, 1940, Bugs Bunny fi rst spoke the immortal lines ‘What’s up, Doc?’ and took a bite out of his trademark carrot. The wise-cracking rabbit even won an Oscar in 1958. Bugs was the voice of Mel Blanc ‘The man of a thousand voices’, who did actually bite a carrot, but spit it out, every single time, as nothing else they tried sounded like the real thing. The cartoons are still shown on TV – this is one pesky wabbit with staying power.

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YEARS AGO

The viewthis fortn t Yours

61 YEARS AGOON JULY 15, 1948,

the self-help group Alcoholics Anonymous came to Britain from the US and has turned lives around ever since

40YEARS AGO, ON JULY 21, 1969, Astronaut Neil

Armstrong took a small step and a giant leap on the moon.

23 YEARS AGO ON JULY 23, 1986, Prince

Andrew married Sarah Ferguson. They divorced just 10 years later, but stayed good friends.

g

Look who’s stripping off!

Dot would never approve! June with fellow Calendar Girls from left, Gemma Atkinson (24), Anita Dobson (60),Sara Crowe (43), Jill Baker (57), Jerry Hall (52) and Jill Halfpenny (33) at the piano. And here she is in her more usual fully-clothed EastEnders role

YOUR067-4-5 View from yours.indd 4 7/7/09 11:48:51


toH eart

❤❤AH eart

❤❤

By Daphne Lockyer

Amanda Redman laughs at the idea she’s about to become an icon for the over-fi fties. While not entirely unhappy to join that band of women whose

pictures are pinned to our fridge for inspiration – Helen Mirren, Judi Dench, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sharon Stone – she admits hitting the big fi ve-o in August is making her feel just a little queasy.

“It’s a big one,” she laughs. “But I think, ‘Come on, am I really going to feel any differently on the day after my birthday or will life just carry on as usual?’

“Friends over 50 talk about that feeling of invisibility that comes from getting older and I dread that. On the other hand, I look at my life and think, ‘Everything is well with the world. So why worry?’

It’s hard to imagine Amanda ever being invisible. As that big birthday approaches she looks as fabulous as ever. But she admits staying in shape doesn’t

‘Am I really going to

feel any different the

day after my birthday?’

The star of New Tricks, back on the telly for a new series, reveals her thoughts on hitting the big 5-0 and her daily battle to stay in shape

Redman…with Amanda

HHHe…w

H

YOUR067-6-7 Amanda Redman.indd 6 2/7/09 11:38:30


By Ellie Guttridge

Salt in a sticky toffee pudding? It’s not something you would expect – yet some pub versions contain as much

salt as two rashers of bacon, almost a third of our recommended daily intake.

Shocking new research carried out by environmental health offi cers on behalf of Consensus Action on Salt and Health (CASH) reveals that a third of pub desserts contain more than 1g of salt, the equivalent of two packets of crisps. And that’s just the desserts – in some cases, a three-course pub meal contains more than the 6g daily maximum recommended limit for an adult.

Eating out is a positive minefi eld. The offi cers sampled 57 popular menu items from 16 of some of the UK’s favourite pub chains and found more than half (55 per cent) of the main course dishes contained 3g of salt or more, half the 6g maximum daily intake for an adult. Nearly all – a massive 91 per cent – contained more than 2g.

“We are now seeing a big difference in the UK between food bought from supermarkets and foods we eat in pubs and restaurants,” says Carrie Bolt, CASH nutritionist. “UK food retailers are leading the way in reducing salt levels in our food and making sure that their products are clearly labelled so that shoppers can see how much salt and saturated fat they contain.

“But more and more of us are eating out on a regular basis and when we buy a meal in a pub or restaurant, we generally have no way of knowing how much salt or saturated fat it contains.”

These high salt pub meals make us very thirsty, encouraging us to drink

more, according to Professor Graham MacGregor, chairman of CASH and Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at St George’s Hospital in London.

“Food retailers in the UK have agreed to new 2012 targets for ready meals of 1.13g salt (maximum), 0.63g salt (average) per 100 grams, set by the Food Standards Agency. CASH would like to see the same 2012 targets set for all pub and restaurant chains and other meals eaten outside the home,” he said.

Just 25 per cent of the salt we consume is added during cooking or at the table. The rest is hidden in the food we buy in pubs, restaurants and supermarkets. “Because not all food tastes salty, we just don’t realise how much we are eating,” says Joe Korner, of the Stroke Association. “Bread and cornfl akes are often high in salt and some instant cup of soup brands contain more salt than is found in a cup of sea water.”

A Burger King Big Breakfast Butty with HP sauce contains more than 5.5g

This pub pud has more salt than two bags of crisps


ta

obgm

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It’s easy to see how much salt there is in shop-bought products, but how do you check in a restaurant?

‘ Because not all food tastes salty, we

don’t know how much we are eating’

New research reveals eating out can be a health hazard as many meals are loaded with salt

YOUR067-18-19 salt.indd 16 3/7/09 16:32:05

National ‘Buy Nothing Day’ is on Saturday November 8 this year, but why wait till then? Challenge yourself to a day of no spending once a month and save your pennies.

Encourage friends and family to do the same!

The Yours money expert answers your questions

21YOURS // EVERY FORTNIGHT

MONEY

WISE

QWho gets my company pension if I die before I draw it?

MICHAEL SAYS: If you’re a member of a pension scheme administered by your employer have a look at the scheme booklet that will have been provided. Bear in mind it’s not only the value of the pension itself that you need to consider; many schemes will also have a death-in-service benefi t. This is expressed as a multiple of current earnings, typically three times your gross salary.

I expect the booklet will explain that the decision of who benefi ts from the value of your pension and any death benefi t rests with the scheme trustees. They would normally arrange for the money to be sent to your next of kin, such as your husband if you have one. But some family structures are complicated which can make the trustees’ job diffi cult. Many schemes have a form you can complete on which you can state your preferences. This will not oblige the trustees to do as you say – especially if your domestic situation changes – but it’s the best way of helping to ensure your wishes are carried out. Discuss with the scheme administrator if you can remove any doubt by establishing a trust to receive the benefi ts. This shouldn’t be costly. If your employer is paying towards a personal pension on your behalf, it’s up to you to discuss these arrangements with your insurance fi rm and, if needed, put the benefi ts in trust for your benefi ciaries.

Asda has launched the lowest-priced bikes on the market. The men’s and women’s 26in 18-speed mountain bikes start at just £70. Asda has bought thousands of bikes and is so keen to get us cycling that they will not be making a penny of profi t on sales. Bikes will be in stores from July 21. To save even more money, look out for a good second-hand bike.

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BUDGET BEATERS

W

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G THE PENNIES WITH YOU

Ask Michael…

MORE THAN 1.4 MILLION PENSIONERS ARE STILL WORKING TO SUPPLEMENT

THEIR INCOMES says Key Retirement.

// Michael J Wilson, fi nancial writer, answers your money questions

By Sarah Jagger

NatioNoveChallonce

Encou

MORE THAN 1.AN 1

Yours

CASH

SAVER

// Fitting a low-fl ow shower head is one of the most effective ways to save water and money in your home as it uses up to 70% less water than a standard one. To fi nd out if a low-fl ow shower will benefi t you, put a two-litre container on the shower fl oor. With the water on full, count how many seconds it takes to fi ll up. If it takes fewer than 12 seconds, a low-fl ow shower will save you money. They are not compatible with electric showers. Pick up a Hansgrohe

Marin Variojet Handshower for £20.98

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YOUR067-21-22 moneywise.indd 21 3/7/09 16:35:32


fi rstwe did it They’ve fl oated back into the

shops as this summer’s glamorous must-have – taking us back to the days we wore fl owers in our hair

The long fl oaty dresses we hippies wore

in the late 60s and early 70s are back under the new guise of hippy chic! Advocates of this style revival include Wayne Rooney’s missus Coleen McLoughlin and actresses Terri Hatch and Kate Beckinsale, pictured with a clutch bag to add a touch of glamour. There’s a school of thought that believes whenever economic times are good we feel more daring and the length of skirts and dresses get shorter, but when times are tough we’re more sensible and our hems get longer. This might be one reason why, in the midst of a recession, the maxi has made a comeback.

It’s certainly fair to say that we were the fi rst generation to cultivate the hippy look. Suddenly, we were able to dress far more casually than ever before. Wonderfully patterned and brightly coloured ankle length dresses that ruffl ed in the wind echoed in our new laid-back way of life.

The maxi dress was also an infl uence from our travels abroad. During the end of the 60s and early 70s, air travel was cheaper and more accessible. We travelled more than ever before and the gypsy culture of

India, the Middle East and South East Asia inspired the look. It was also a good alternative to the mini as it covered a multitude of sins, but was cool enough to wear in the summer.

The key to wearing our maxi dresses well was to accessorise them. We did this with hats, beads, ribbons or fl owers in our hair. On our feet, we wore boots, sandals or just went barefoot, like actress Charlotte Rampling. Laura Ashley was probably the most famous maxi dress designer. Her fi rst cotton maxi dress was produced in 1966 and it set the company’s tone – being all about feminine timelessness,

From left, Coleen McLoughlin, Terri Hatcher and Kate Beckinsdale

RAQUEL

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Th l fl t

…maxi dresses

with its nostalgic Victorian ruffl es, lace and delicate fl oral print. Laura Ashley dresses allowed us to be unashamedly girly again. It was a more sophisticated way to wear the maxi and it seems today’s dresses have combined this classic femininity with bohemian hippie style. We’re pleased that full and fl oaty dresses have blown their way back into fashion, but feel once again we must boast – ‘we did it fi rst!’

60s

JANE

FONDA

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with its nostalgic Victorian ruffl es, lace and delicate fl oral print. Laura Ashley dresses allowed us to be unashamedly

i l i hi i d

A

70s

Now

YOUR067-33 we did it 1st.indd 33 2/7/09 11:43:15

YOURS // EVERY FORTNIGHT44

EVENING OUT

Stockists Bhs 0845 196 0000 Bonmarché 01924 700100 Debenhams 0844 5616161 Dorothy Perkins 0844 984 0261 Dune 0800 731 4648 Littlewoods 0844 822 8000 Matalan 0845 330 3330 New Look 0500 454094 Next 0844 844 8939 Primark 0118 9606 300 Viva La Diva 0871 231 8000 Wallis 0844 984 0266

Whatever you’re up to this summer, a few well chosen accessories can ensure that you’re looking your very best.

By Rebecca Speechley

£19.50sizes 8-18, Limited at M&S

£30sizes 8-18, Rocha by John Rocha at Debenhams

£19.50 sizes S-L, Autograph at M&S

£35 sizes 10-22, Bhs

£18Autograph

at M&S

£29.50Autograph

at M&S

£203-8, New Look

£7 (pack of three)

Dorothy Perkins

£8Allusions

at Bhs

£10Mood at

Debenhams

£20sizes 3-8, New Look

Clutch bag,

£40Dune

£203-8, New Look

£12Bhs

£15Wallis

£4Matalan

DAY TRIP

£10sizes 8-20, Matalan

Costume jewellery is a great way to add a bit of glamour to any outfi t and you don’t have to spend a fortune. Clutch bags are very fashionable and are an elegant addition to any outfi t.

If you’re outside on grass, opt for fl at sandals. If you need a heel, go for a wedge – or you’ll spend the entire time sinking into the lawn. Choose chunky beaded jewellery for a relaxed dressed-down look.

BARBECUE WITH FRIENDS TH

£49.50 sizes 8-22, Autograph at M&S

Accessoryour s

When you’re out and about, look for a bag with a shoulder strap that you can wear across your body to keep your hands free for shopping and sightseeing. Comfortable fl at shoes are a must – and don’t forget your sunglasses.

£18sizes 8-22, Limited at M&S

£28sizes 8-20, Betty Jackson. Black at Debenhams

£28sizes 10-22, Bhs

YOUR067-44-45 fashion.indd 44 26/6/09 11:11:48


Make it a multi-tasking product like this new Olay total effects Touch of Foundation. Not only does it even out your skin tone for a natural looking fi nish, it also contains a blend of anti-ageing ingredients and is SPF 15.

If you’re out with your grandchildren you need a bag that you can pack with all their essentials and snacks, plus a pair of fl at shoes for the inevitable running around. A neck scarf is a great way to make a casual outfi t look chic.

dilemmaBEAUTY

Let our experts help you to look younger for longer

Q Up to now I’ve got rid of my ‘moustache’ with facial hair removing cream. I’m interested

in laser treatment, but couldn’t bear the idea of having to grow out the wretched thing before I could have treatment. How long does facial hair have to be before it can be lasered away?

Patricia Chambers, London

Yours Beauty Editor says: You’ll need to stop waxing or using cream on the area for up to four weeks before treatment as the hair needs to be between 1-2mm in length for laser hair removal to be successful. Laser hair removal treatments work by damaging cells at the hair root. It doesn’t remove hair permanently but reduces growth, although you may need four to six sessions.

You shouldn’t have the treatment if you have any history of skin cancer, a heart condition or diabetes. Laser hair removal generally doesn’t work effectively on blonde or grey hairs, only on dark hair. The treatment isn’t suitable for darker skin tones and you’ll need to stay out of the sun for a month beforehand, as it can’t be carried out on tanned skin. An alternative would be electrolysis, which, although time-consuming, is suitable for lighter hair. Ask you doctor to arrange for you to have a consultation with a dermatologist who will be able to go through all your options.

// Send your questions to: Beauty Dilemma, Yours Magazine, Media House, Peterborough Business Park PE2 6EA

0 Marisota 0871 984 6000 Marks and Spencer 0845 302 1234


Stockist: Olay – Available nationwide

WHILE WE MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO ENSURE THAT PRODUCTS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION WE ARE UNABLE TO GUARANTEE THAT YOUR LOCAL STORE WILL HAVE THEM IN STOCK – ESPECIALLY DURING SALE PERIODS.

£19sizes 8-20,

Littlewoods

£22sizes 12-32,

Marisota

£12Portfolio at M&S

GOING AWAY

£25sizes 12-24,

Bon Marché

£10sizes 8-18,

Primark

£30sizes 12-32,

Marisota

£9.50sizes 8-22,

Limited at M&S

£18Littlewoods

Your travelling outfi t should include layers so you can easily adjust to changing temperatures. Stick to comfortable breathable fabrics such as cotton and opt for a good-sized fl ight bag to store all your bits and bobs.

£15sizes 3-8, Bhs

£89M&S

£7Dorothy

Perkins

£5Bon

Marché

£15M&S

THE GRANDKIDSDAY OUT WITH

£20sizes 3-8, Viva

La Diva

orise summer

£32Next

If you’re going to splash out on one item this fortnight…

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YOUR067-44-45 fashion.indd 45 26/6/09 11:12:14

The phrase ‘like father, like son’ has a lot of


writes just for youwrRoy HuddThe all-round entertainer and Yours columnist celebrates 60 glorious years of Lionel Blair

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Every week there seems to be a party. All my earliest friends in show business seem to be laying on ‘knees-ups’. For birthdays, anniversaries, or celebrating something special – Frank Carson the buying of a new joke, Esther Rantzen standing as PM, Ronnie Woods attending the

birth of his next girlfriend and me the 40th anniversary of my evening dress suit – I hear green is coming back in fashion!

Just a couple of weeks back, I was tickled pink to be asked to say a few words during a unique lunch at a posh London hotel to celebrate Lionel Blair’s 60 years in show business… 60 years! No, I couldn’t believe it either. As someone commented to me on the day, “How come Lionel’s ten years older than you, yet he looks like your son?”

He is an amazing bloke. He is in great shape – all that dancing (I must try to get both feet off the ground together one day). He still has an unquenchable enthusiasm for the job and still smiles that indestructible smile. Apart from that, he’s a dead loss!

Proof of how much the lad is admired and liked was the turnout of workmates at the lunch. Lionel insisted that any money

raised should go to the charity, Elizabeth Finn Care, and it benefi ted by some £10,000!

As a youngster, Lionel began entertaining with his sister, the late Joyce Blair. Together they danced and sang for the crowds sleeping in the Underground during the Second World War – whether the crowds wanted it or not! From this, he graduated to being a Munchkin in The Wizard

of Oz and then Puck at the Open Air Theatre Regent’s Park.After a career as a song and dance man, he choreographed and

had his own troupes of girls. Then he did what no other dancer, to my knowledge, had ever done – he became a TV host: Name That Tune, Give Us a Clue, as well as playing in more than 30 pantos, and in all sorts of dramas and comedies. This summer, he’ll be in Edinburgh in School For Scandal.

Lionel and I fi rst met when he did the choreography for a revue I was in – a very special revue. It was the fi rst big West End success for the late Danny La Rue (I will, of course, be writing about the late Dan in an upcoming column), Danny At The Palace. Lionel and the revue’s director, the legendary Freddie Carpenter, sat behind a desk while I sat looking at them – a bit like having a talking to from the headmaster and his assistant. Freddie launched into his ideas for the show – after every one Lionel looked at me and winked. I thought, ‘well, he’s obviously trying to tell me I should humour Mr Carpenter but the fi nished result

won’t be like he’s said at all!’ I left the meeting, having been reassured by Lionel’s winks that

all would be different. It was weeks later when Lionel apologised for winking, but explained he’d just had an eye operation.

“Oh what a shame,” I said, “I thought you were fl irting!” I became a friend of Lionel

from that moment on. No surprise – everybody is a friend of Lionel’s. The guests at his party included everyone

from dancers to dustmen, car dealers to carpet salesmen, milliners to mountebanks, producers to

pantomimists and knights to nomads. Plus a positive plethora of children, in-laws and other family. Michael Winner fl ew in especially to praise Lionel and rubbish the food. Rolf Harris, Les Dennis, Philip Madoc, and yours truly had admiration to express, while the ladies – Diana Moran, Sylvia Syms, June Whitfi eld, Vicki Michelle and Anita Harris – all confessed they’d all had

crushes on the lad. The ‘do’ fi nished

with the showing of a recording of Sunday Night

At The Palladium – remember that one? It was a song and dance

duet with Lionel and Sammy Davis Junior. When it came to tap dancing, the

only difference between these two great exponents was one was black. The entire room

gave our hero a standing ovation for that spot and for 60 glorious years.

‘ How come Lionel’s ten

years older than you,

yet he looks just like

your son?’

YOUR067-61 Roy Hudd.indd 61 26/6/09 11:02:06

The

Yours pull-out The

Yours pull-out

Great health

Compiled by Rebecca Speechley

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58 simple tips & must-do tweaks that will transform your health and wellbeing whatever your age

50at

YOUR067-63 pullout cover.indd 1 26/6/09 11:14:32

?

had entered me for the programme What Not To Wear. I was shocked as I

thought I looked fi ne. She said: “Margaret,

you’ve been in a time warp since 1974.”

We had a very honest

relationship! I headed to

London and was so nervous that I stayed in the

hotel room until the audition. There were 30 to 40 women when I entered the room and, as we got talking, it became apparent that these were all exceptional ladies – from a recovering cancer patient to someone whose house had burnt down. I told the director I stood no chance.

The following day the BBC rang and said I’d been chosen for the next stage.

I still wasn’t convinced I needed help, even though I’d had the same hairstyle after 32 years of marriage. My husband still approved of the way I looked, so maybe the BBC was wrong.

I was petrifi ed of being interviewed by Lisa Butcher, the show’s presenter, but she put me at ease. As I stood in the fi nal line-up of six I was

As a teenager, I was bullied for being the tallest in the class,

taller even than the boys. I’d fi nd solace in women’s magazines with their statuesque models, and I longed to become like them.

Aged 14, I applied to the London Academy of Modelling and was over the moon when I was invited to audition. When I showed the letter to my mother, she was horrifi ed. She deemed modelling an ‘irregular’ job and told me to throw the letter away. I cried for weeks, but secretly kept the letter to fuel my daydreams.

In real life, I breezed through college and secured a secretarial job. I met and married Tony, my soul mate, and became a working mum with two wonderful children, Anthony and Claire.

Little did I know that a call at work would lead me to fulfi l my childhood dream when I was approaching the age of 50. I’ll never forget the day my secretary told me the BBC was on the phone. Mystifi ed, I took the call.

Apparently, she

fl abbergasted when they picked me. I burst out crying.

As my hair was chopped, I closed my eyes and thought of my sister Jacqueline’s reassuring words, “Anything you don’t like I’ll be able to undo.” (She’s a hairdresser!) They revamped my make-up and my 32-inch legs were accentuated by new styles.

Filming took nearly three months and included four trips to London as well as fi ve visits to my house. On one of these, the team went through everything, not just my clothes and shoes.

Later, Lisa pulled out the letter I’d kept secret for

36 years – not even my husband knew where that was hidden.

She explained that changing your style was also about facing your demons. She made me revisit my school to be able

to put the bullying behind me.

Tony’s initial reaction had been dismay – he felt our private life was going to be aired in public and he wasn’t keen – but my family and friends were amazed by the diffi erence in me.

They say I’m now radiant to be around and my ‘can do’ attitude makes me feel I can tackle anything.

Since the show, I’ve applied to a modelling agency which said I looked too young to be in my 50s, so it has kept me on fi le until I do. That’s a compliment, I suppose!

ppp y,the lette

36 yehusbwas

Shchanalso ademorevis

// Have you followed your dream and got an amazing story to tell? We’ll pay up to £100 for every story we print. Contact us at ‘Follow Your Dream’, Yours magazine, Media House, Peterborough Business Park, Peterborough PE2 6EA. Or email your stories and pictures to sheena.correabauermedia.co.uk

fl abbergasted when they k d b

AS

TO

LD

TO

: SH

EE

NA

CO

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EA

to become a model

MARGARET

EADSWORTH,

52, FROM COUNTYDURHAM

to put the bullying

A MODEL MUM!Margaret’s family were amazed at her transformation

‘ I followed my dream…’


YOUR067-72 FYD.indd 72 25/6/09 10:50:41


GoodiesBe a cut above the rest with two pairs of scissors from Fiskars, makers of the iconic orange-handled scissors known worldwide for quality and design. Their new Micro Tip Big Loop scissors, rrp £12.99, give extra control and are perfect for arthritic hands. The decorative new Heidi Grace scissors, rrp £9.99, in two fl oral designs make great gifts.// Not a winner? For the full range of Fiskars scissors and craft products and stockist details call 01656 655595 or visit www.fi skars.com

to win

Lipcote is the original lipstick sealer that helps to create long-lasting, perfect pouts. Just one quick sweep keeps your lipstick locked on lips for hours, and even withstands eating and drinking.// Not a winner? Lipcote is available from leading supermarkets and pharmacies nationwide, rrp £3.49, or visit www.lipcote.com

Gosford Park meets Upstairs Downstairs in this saga of hardship and excess, determination and greed. Set in Devon, love and loss combine in this period novel tale of an extraordinary man and his family. // Not a winner? Available from all good book retailers.

If you want to help keep your heart healthy, and avoid hardening arteries then MenaQ7 – vitamin K2 - could be the answer. Vitamin K2 in the diet activates a protein which could prevent deposits building up and keep the heart strong.// Not a winner? MenaQ7 is available from independent pharmacies and health food stores or visit www.nutricentre.com or www.MenaQ7.com

To mark the release of Des O’Connor Volume 1, Network DVD is offering the chance to win a Panasonic DVD recorder plus a copy of this legendary show featuring many celebrity guests.// Not a winner? Get the DVD for £12.99 plus free

p&p (rrp £19.99) by calling 01992 657707 or visit www.networkdvd.co.uk quoting ‘DESYOURS’

Giveaways are governed by the same rules as Yours competitions (see page 91)

22 sets of Fiskars classic scissors

HOW TO ENTER: Either enter by post:

(fi ll in the coupon on page 89)Website: to enter for free, go to www.yours.co.uk Yours magazine section to give your details

Closing date: July 31, 2009

We’ve got six fabulous prizes up for grabs – so take your pick!

20 Lipcote lipstick sealer gift sets

20 No 1 Chesterfi eld Square books

1 Panasonic DVD recorder

and Des O’Connor DVD

20 MenaQ7 supplements

(one month’s supply)

Rainy days with the grandkids can be challenging but PlayMais will keep creative types amused for hours. PlayMais building blocks stick together using water, and the bright colours are made from natural food dyes. They’re eco-friendly and biodegradable. Experience the ultimate in crafting fun.// Not a winner? Available from John Lewis and Amazon, or visit www.PlayMais.com

20 PlayMais Jungle Sets

To 1, Na Pleg// N

SET WORTH £23

WORTH

£42O EACH

WORTH

£20 EACH

WORTH

£19 EACH

WORTH

£17 EACH

WORTH £17.99

EACH

YOUR067-90 Goodies.indd 90 25/6/09 10:49:19

to improve fi tness, boost self-esteem and beat stress. Get some great tips on walking for health in Issue 70 of Yours.

If your fi tness level is boosted it may help reduce the chance of you falling ill. One of the biggest concerns for carers is what will happen if they become ill and can’t cope any more.

It’s often hard for carers to take a break

Caring for someone else is hard work and carers often pay a high price as they neglect their own

health and well-being. Many suffer from depression but they

are often unable – or unwilling – to share their feelings with family or professionals and then do not know how to resolve it.

Carers often report a whole range of problems including: physical exhaustion, mental stress, insomnia, feelings of guilt, depression or feeling trapped by the situation.

One carer told Yours her method of relieving stress was to snap wooden kebab skewers into tiny pieces, another

Margaret Dodwell has had Parkinson’s disease for seven years and for the past six

years she has been going to a weekly exercise class.

“I used to go to keep fi t classes before I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and I’ve always been interested in the fact that exercise can help relieve stress,” says Margaret. “At fi rst I thought I’d never be able to cope, but I joined Pilates and yoga classes and I fi nd they help a great deal.

“I certainly know by my joints if I’ve missed a week. There’s no need for anyone to feel embarrassed at a class. No

one takes any notice of your ability.Many people think that gyms aren’t

for them. They imagine the classes are full of slim, fi t people wearing leotards. But according to keep fi t instructor Anita Barker, they couldn’t be more wrong.

She says: “Exercise classes with properly trained instructors are ideal for carers and many people with health problems. People with conditions such as MS and Parkinson’s benefi t from gentle keep fi t sessions, especially Pilates which strengthens the core muscles of the body and helps posture.”

Anita says she fi nds it rewarding to

watch class members grow in strength and confi dence.

“I’m a fi rm believer in the phrase ‘use it or lose it’. Exercise helps keep your joints going and this is essential if you are a carer. Everyone tells me they feel better after the class, but I’d always advise people to seek the advice of their GP before starting any exercise.

“Classes are sociable affairs and there’s often time for a cup of tea or a chat at the end.”

Anita’s relaxation tip:“If you feel really stressed, sit down

quietly. Concentrate on your breathing.

told us that she simply goes into the garden and screams!

Deep breathing is practised in both yoga and meditation to calm the mind, but a little gentle exercise can also really help. A walk in the garden or park is a good start and if you have a couple of hours to yourself why not try to build up to longer walks? Walking is a great way


By Reader Care Editor Rosie SandallBy Reader Care Editor Rosie Sandall

Carers

in touchCaring is stressful, but exercise can help give you more energy

Exercise to relieve stress

YOUR067-98-99 CARERS.indd 98 30/6/09 11:18:15

Breathe in very slowly and then breathe out slowly. Just think about your breathing and nothing else! Once you are breathing slowly, your body will slow down and you’ll feel less stressed.”

simply because they can’t leave the person for whom they care. But experts agree that it’s vital for carers to look after themselves – otherwise they’ll be unable to carry on caring.

If you feel you need advice on coping with caring, call Carers UK on the number below.


CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

Tips for coping with stress// Find a way of relaxing – ask your GP or local healthy living centre what’s available in your area.

// Give yourself a break from caring – even if it’s just a couple of hours a week.

// Try walking or swimming – great stress relievers.

// Talk to other people who understand. Join the Yours Carers in Touch scheme by writing to Rosie at Carers in Touch, Yours, Media House, Peterborough Business Park, Peterborough PE2 6EA.

// Learn to say no sometimes.

// Have a few minutes for yourself.

PIC

: JU

PIT

ER

UN

LIM

ITE

D

“The redemption of our

communities is up to individuals

living by example and by the

transformation of personal

responsibility. It begins in our own

homes and with sustained

commitment to simple truths.”

THOUGHT FOR Our inspirational thought is written especially for Yours by Dorothy McGregor, who runs a charity shelter for the homeless in Accrington. Her tireless devotion has earned her the name ‘Lancashire’s Mother Theresa’. You can write to Dorothy at: Maundy Relief, 29/31 Abbey Street, Accrington, Lancs BB5 1EN; tel: 01254 232328.

THE FORTNIGHT

NLIM

ITE

D

n. as Lancashire’s Mother h i l l d h

Anita helps Margaret with a gentle stretch

The Yours Caring Home of the Year Award

Turn over to nominate a care home for the Yours Caring Home of the Year Award CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

The search is on for the The Yours Caring Home of the Year and we need your help!

We at Yours want to celebrate all that’s good about the country’s residential homes.

That’s why we are launching the prestigious Yours Caring Home of the Year award.

The award will cover all nursing and residential care homes in the UK where people live permanently. It will not include sheltered accommodation.

There will also be a special award for the staff member of the year. This award – the Yours Caring Staff Member of the Year Award - will go to someone who goes the extra mile to make a real

difference to residents’ lives.There will be seven regional fi nalists

in both categories – South West; South East; Midlands and East Anglia; Wales; North East; North West; Scotland.

And the judges will also be looking for a staff member whose care for residents is truly outstanding.

All you have to do to nominate a special home or staff member is to fi ll in the form overleaf and post it to us.

The closing date for the competition is Monday, August 3, 2009 and the winners will be announced in the Autumn.

THE JUDGES WILL INCLUDE:

Carer of the Fortnight and Carers in Touch will both be back in Issue 68 – July 28

Yours editor Valery McConnell

Reader care editor Rosie Sandall

Former GMTV presenter Fiona Phillips

Yours

columnist Lynda Bellingham

Where to get help// Carers UK has an information sheet called Coping with Stress which encourages carers to try gentle exercise and relaxation techniques. Call CarersLine on 0808 808 7777, Wednesday and Thursday 10am to noon; 2pm to 4pm, or visit www.carersuk.org

// Contact your local Age Concern or Carers’ centre to fi nd out about exercise classes in your area. Many carers’ centres run their own classes for carers.

YOUR067-98-99 CARERS.indd 99 30/6/09 11:18:31


MATERIALS6(6:7:8:8:9) 50g balls Twilleys Freedom Sincere DK Pair each 3.25mm (UK 10) and 4mm (UK 8) knitting needlesOne each 3.25mm (UK 10) and 4mm (UK 8) circular knitting needles2 buttons1 stitch holder2 stitch markersYarn quantities are based on average requirements and are therefore approximate.

TENSION22 sts and 28 rows = 10cm/4in square over stocking stitch using Twilleys Freedom Sincere DK on 4mm needles or the size required to give the correct tension.Always check tension carefully and adjust needle sizes throughout if necessary.

BACKUsing 3.25mm needles cast on 93(99:105:111:117:123) sts.1st row (RS) Knit.2nd row Purl.

MEASUREMENTS

Elegant boat neck top

FOR

KNITTERS

WITH GOOD

EXPERIENCE

★★★

This top goes well with jeans or

dress it up with smart trousers

ABBREVIATIONSalt - alternate, beg - beginning, cm - centimetres, cont - continue, dec - decrease(ing), DK – double knitting, foll – following, g – grams, in - inch(es), inc – increase(ing), k – knit, k2tog – knit 2 stitches together, m1 - make one stitch (pick up strand between the needles and knit into the back of it), mm - millimetres, 0 - no stitches, rows or times, meas – measures, p – purl, p2tog – purl 2 stitches together, rem – remain(ing), rep – repeat, RS - right side, skpo – slip one stitch, knit one stitch, pass slipped stitch over, st(s) - stitch(es), st-st - stocking stitch (knit on right side rows, purl on wrong side rows), tbl – through back of loops, tog – together, WS - wrong side.

To fi t bust

81 86 91 97 102 107 cm

32 34 36 38 40 42 in

Actual size

85 90 95 101 106 112 cm

331 ⁄4 351⁄2 371⁄2 393 ⁄4 42 44 in

Length to back neck

53 54 55 56 57 58 cm

21 211 ⁄4 211⁄2 22 221⁄2 223 ⁄4 in

Length sleeve seam

2 2 2 2 2 2 cm3 ⁄4 3 ⁄4 3 ⁄4 3 ⁄4 3 ⁄4 3 ⁄4 in

NOTESFigures in brackets ( ) refer to larger sizes. Where only one set of fi gures is given this applies to all sizes.It is advisable to circle the size you wish to make.

YOUR067-116-117 Knitting.indd 116 25/6/09 10:51:52


look at life…Lynda’s

I want, I want, I want. Those who want don’t get. I remember that was my mother’s stock reply to my demands as a child. But was my list of ‘wants’ really going to make me happy? Or was it about getting things other people had, or because it would make me

look good to my friends, or just because? We live in such an all-consuming, consumer society that sometimes I think we have been bamboozled into believing that only “things” can make us happy. Ask most young people today what makes them happy, and I bet it will involve something that can be bought, worn or played with. All involve money. I have been contemplating my own levels of happiness and trying to discover a more spiritual level of contentment. Obviously, it is easier in hindsight to spot moments of happiness. We do not always really appreciate them at the time. I can honestly say that memories I have of real happiness were not about money. Don’t get me wrong, I have known times of real hardship when a few quid would have changed my life. But real true happiness can come in strange forms. As a child, security meant happiness. I have never taken that for granted. Coming home to see my Mum in the kitchen and sitting by an open fi re to eat crumpets with jam and butter. Pure joy.

Christmas is still a time of enormous happiness to me, even though over the last fi ve years I have lost both my parents and my sister around that time. Although I miss them terribly, my joy of Christmas makes it easier. Looking at a lit-up Christmas tree makes me toe-tinglingly happy. Wrapping the presents and fi lling stockings for my boys, who are now 21 and 26, still fi lls me with complete joy. When I was younger, waking up in the early hours and feeling that stocking on the bed

was so exciting. Nowadays, I get the same feeling of anticipation after we have been to Midnight Mass. Honestly, I

love it. The birth of my sons are memorably happy moments. I had never really planned children. Never had those broody, body clock-ticking issues. I had Michael when I was 35 and Robbie when I was 40. I could not believe how I felt – an overwhelming love for these boys. Crazy.

There are all kinds of theories about the chemical process in our body that produces feelings of happiness. Chocolate springs to mind. But what is so elusive I think, is that spiritual

feeling of happiness. I do not have the answers, but I do know that little moments of happiness are all around us and we should learn to enjoy them. Sometimes it could be as simple as stopping at a zebra crossing to let someone get to the other side and they give you a wave and a smile. How rare is that? Or it could be coming home and fi nding your dear family has not only fi lled the dishwasher, but set it going and emptied it. Now that is happiness.

I’m outside the stage door, eating a bowl of chips for lunch! Well, it’s been a busy fortnight. As well as Calendar Girls and Loose Women, I’ve been recording a series for Radio 4 called The Richest Man In The World – I play the mum of Mark Williams of The Fast

Show. I’ve also done a monologue for Radio 4’s afternoon slot called Three Women in a Motor Home written by Sue Teddern, who writes wonderful parts for women of a certain age. We older women are coming into our own. That’s why I can’t understand

why – if the rumours are true – the BBC would want to replace Strictly judge Arlene Phillips with Alesha Dixon. They shouldn’t ignore the fact that age brings wisdom and it’s up to us to make sure they don’t.

Yours columnist Lynda Bellingham reveals her secret recipe for happiness – the feeling as a child of going home to Mum, and an emptied dishwasher!

My fortnight…

‘ Memories I have of

real happiness are

not about money’

PIC

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PA

UL M

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HE

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ndm

springs to mind. But what is sfethlitallto becroothandcouyoutheemp

’ve also done a monologue for why – if the rum

Happiness is... Lynda pictured with her beloved sons when they were younger

YOUR067-130 Lynda B.indd 130 7/7/09 16:14:47

yours magazine #67

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