cheltenham issue 18

Retired& living in Cheltenham & Gloucester

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

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011

RICK STEINShares his favourite dishesinspired by Flavours of the Med

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Health and Safety and Hot Air!Reading the entire collection of Health and Safety rules which dictate our lives today would be a suitable prison sentence for murder. New ones are added daily by some overpaid barmpot in Whitehall and two I came across recently are worthy of mention.

In the beautiful Bronte village of Haworth there is an annual event in June to celebrate the 1940s. Everyone and their granny descends on the village, some villagers have been known to move out for the weekend to avoid the crush, and many dress in period costume singing “We’ll Meet Again” increasingly loudly as the local brew takes effect.

Until three years ago part of the spectacle was a fly past by retired World War Two aeroplanes, usually a Spitfire, a Hurricane or a Lancaster Bomber. Now these planes are still air worthy after seventy years but some clown in Bradford Council’s Health and Safety asylum decided there was a problem.

The Spitfire won the Battle of Britain. Hitler and his army eventually chucked the towel in because they couldn’t down enough of the planes to win. It’s a good job Bradford Council wasn’t on his side or he’d have won.

The organisers of the Forties Weekend had to conduct a Health and Safety and feasibility study and here was one of the questions:-

“What was the likelihood of one of the planes crashing onto the village during the flypast?”

Now we don’t see many Fokkers or Messerschmitts over Haworth these days and the Home Guard was disbanded some years ago. The only aerial threat we have is from rooks and the occasional duck with a dicky tummy, which might necessitate wearing a tin helmet on windy days.

I think we had the greatest confidence that the pilots would have successfully cleared the village without a mass slaughter of the population, but, no, we couldn’t have a fly past.

10,000 people squeezed onto our tiny cobbled streets that weekend. Traffic management had a pink fit as the hordes parked their cars anywhere and everywhere. Hermann Goerring was spotted having a pint in The Fleece but we couldn’t have aeroplanes using the only

empty space in the valley…the sky.

Were all flights from Leeds-Bradford airport suspended for the day in case the lunch time Ireland plane crashed in Central Park? They were not.

There was a famous wartime phrase which said, “Your country needs you”. I suggest the same does not apply to the Health and Safety nitwits of today.

Graham Smith has a TwitterBut is he right or wrong?

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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 & LEISURE6-7 Under the Tuscan Sun Discover Italy's treasures.

REGULARS9 Graham Smith Twittering on.

10-11 How Michael stepped up to the mike Michael Aspel talks to Retired.

18-19 Food and Drink Rick Stein's Mediterranean Escapes Recipes.

HEALTH23 Confident Smiles, Healthier Lives From Wotton Dental Clinic.

24-25 Open your mind to alternative therapies.

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

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37WALKER

Join us for this pre Christmas break in picturesque Cornwall staying of one of its favourite seaside

resorts—Newquay. PRICE INCLUDES:

Four nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast. Ensuite accommodation at the

Cliffdene Hotel, Newquay on the sea front. Excursion to Truro and the

historic maritime town of Falmouth. Visit to Padstow, and pretty St

Ives. Hotel entertainment .

Join us as we stay at the popular Rosemundy House Hotel where the Faulkner family welcomes us with

festive activities. PRICE INCLUDES:


Rosemundy Hotel in St Agnes. Excursion to Truro, Falmouth and

the Eden Project, transformed into a winter wonderland. Visit to picturesque St Ives and

the Treasures of Cornwall, with its gold, pearl and silver displays. Hotel entertainment.

With it’s picturesque

harbour, palm lined promenade, Torquay makes a perfect base for our early festive

themed break. PRICE INCLUDES:


Cavendish Hotel, a short walk from town centre, and only 500 metres from the sea front. Use of the hotels indoor pool. Excursion to Brixham, a quaint

fishing port, and a visit to Exeter. Hotel Entertainment.

Due to the popularity of this Turkey and Tinsel in Llandudno we have added an extra date! With it’s elegant charm

Llandudno is an ideal base to explore the area.

PRICE INCLUDES: Four nights Dinner, Bed &

Breakfast. Ensuite accommodation at the

family run Esplanade Hotel. Excursion to the Isle of Anglesey

and attractive Beaumaris. Visit to Betws-y-Coed before

continuing through the Llanberis Pass with a brief stop in Llanberis Hotel Entertainment .

Set on Yorkshire’s coastline and famous for its beautiful sandy bays, Scarborough’s been a popular resort

since the 17th century and is the perfect place to enjoy a typical English Christmas. PRICE INCLUDES: Four nights Dinner, Bed &

Breakfast– Festive meal programme. Ensuite accommodation at the

Royal Hotel, Scarborough. Excursion to historic York. Visit to the seaside town of

Whitby. Hotel Entertainment.

Treat yourself to a bit of luxury, without the price tag and join us for a fantastic mini break in the Capital.

This break gives you free time to enjoy

London and its many sights and attractions whilst staying in posh 5 star accommodation! PRICE INCLUDES: One nights ensuite

accommodation at the 5 star Waldorf Hilton Hotel. Bed and Full cooked Breakfast Afternoon Tea at the Waldorf Guided tour of the Waldorf Hotel Use of the hotels indoor pool

Join us for this pre Christmas break in picturesque Cornwall staying of one of its favourite seaside

resorts—Newquay. PRICE INCLUDES:


Cliffdene Hotel, Newquay on the sea front. Excursion to Truro and the

historic maritime town of Falmouth. Visit to Padstow, and pretty St

Ives. Hotel entertainment .

Join us as we stay at the popular Rosemundy House Hotel where the Faulkner family welcomes us with

festive activities. PRICE INCLUDES:


Rosemundy Hotel in St Agnes. Excursion to Truro, Falmouth and

the Eden Project, transformed into a winter wonderland. Visit to picturesque St Ives and

the Treasures of Cornwall, with its gold, pearl and silver displays. Hotel entertainment.

With it’s picturesque

harbour, palm lined promenade, Torquay makes a perfect base for our early festive

themed break. PRICE INCLUDES:


Cavendish Hotel, a short walk from town centre, and only 500 metres from the sea front. Use of the hotels indoor pool. Excursion to Brixham, a quaint

fishing port, and a visit to Exeter. Hotel Entertainment.

Due to the popularity of this Turkey and Tinsel in Llandudno we have added an extra date! With it’s elegant charm

Llandudno is an ideal base to explore the area.

PRICE INCLUDES: Four nights Dinner, Bed &

Breakfast. Ensuite accommodation at the

family run Esplanade Hotel. Excursion to the Isle of Anglesey

and attractive Beaumaris. Visit to Betws-y-Coed before

continuing through the Llanberis Pass with a brief stop in Llanberis Hotel Entertainment .

Set on Yorkshire’s coastline and famous for its beautiful sandy bays, Scarborough’s been a popular resort

since the 17th century and is the perfect place to enjoy a typical English Christmas. PRICE INCLUDES: Four nights Dinner, Bed &

Breakfast– Festive meal programme. Ensuite accommodation at the

Royal Hotel, Scarborough. Excursion to historic York. Visit to the seaside town of

Whitby. Hotel Entertainment.

Treat yourself to a bit of luxury, without the price tag and join us for a fantastic mini break in the Capital.

This break gives you free time to enjoy

London and its many sights and attractions whilst staying in posh 5 star accommodation! PRICE INCLUDES: One nights ensuite

accommodation at the 5 star Waldorf Hilton Hotel. Bed and Full cooked Breakfast Afternoon Tea at the Waldorf Guided tour of the Waldorf Hotel Use of the hotels indoor pool


Strung along 18km of serrated cliffs between Levanto and La Spezia, the Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s treasures. These five higgledy-piggledy

villages Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore are cut off by mountains, choked with olive groves and dry-stone-walled vineyards, where farmers have eked out a living over the centuries. The Cinque Terre became a Unesco World Heritage site in 1997, which includes a protected marine area, and became a national park (Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre) in 1999. Wine growers still use monorail mechanisms to ferry themselves up and the grapes down these unique lands, and in some cases have to harvest by boat as access is restricted. If the terraced hillsides are not worked, they will quite literally slide into the sea.

National park status has spared the area from a propagation of tourism and the tacky souvenir stands that come with it and saved it from environmental destruction. Cars and motorbikes are not allowed in the villages, instead they are connected by train. In the villages, electric buses scale the sheer streets. Park authorities close walking paths when numbers become too great, so it�s best to arrive in the cool and relative calm of the early morning.

EATING/DRINKINGGrapevines and olive trees cover the hillsides, so wine and oil are a must on the restaurant tables. They prove excellent companions for the salted anchovies of Monterosso served in olive oil as well as the many specialty fish dishes and authentic gastronomic delights.

The cuisine of the Cinque Terre almost perfectly conserves the characteristics of yesteryear; the respect for the flavours and fragrances of the primary ingredients. Trofie is a kind of pasta made from chestnut or wheat flour, It’s condiment is still pesto sauce, an original Ligurian sauce made from basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, grated parmesan cheese and pine nuts. Torte di verdura - vegetable pies -are prepared with a stuffing containing parsley, marjoram, wild local herbs, artichokes, zucchini, potatoes and leeks, combined with egg and ricotta cheese or with stale bread soaked in milk or béchamel sauce and parmesan cheese. The pie crust is very thin, because flour was a very precious commodity. Torta di riso - rice pie - is a specialty of every Italian grandma in the region. Frittate - flat omelettes - are popular today as the ‘frittata’ has been rediscovered as a tasty antipasto. Another important dish on the tables of the Cinque Terre population was cotoletta di acciuga, anchovies stuffed with a breadcrumb based filling and then fried. The fritelle di bianchetti, fritters made from tiny newborn anchovies or sardines, were also highly appreciated. Following the seamen’s gastronomic traditions, other dishes included stewed cuttlefish, stuffed calamari and spiced octopus.

SLEEPINGNumerous villagers have rooms to rent: look for signs reading camere (rooms) or affittacamere (rooms for rent). Accommodation booking offices in Riomaggiore are really helpful and can help you organise a room ahead of time. The town of Levanto is bigger and has a lot of accommodation including hotels, bed & breakfasts

Under the Tuscan Sun


and even camping areas where you can rent a tent with two beds and linens for very low prices!

Note: Breakfast in an Italian hotel or B&B will be some slices of bread and a croissant, butter, jam and coffee with orange juice if you are lucky. This is a typical Italian breakfast so if you can get a room without breakfast and head down to the nearest cafe where there is a larger choice.

GETTING AROUNDTake the train to La Spezia and change onto the regional (“Regionale”) train that makes all the local stops in the Cinque Terre mostly through tunnels. All the Cinque Terre towns have their own train station. Almost all the trains from La Spezia stop in Levanto. The train represents the best way to visit all the villages of the Cinque Terre. Until the end of the 19th Century these towns were completely isolated and reachable just on foot or by sea. In 1860 (works ended in 1874) the first tunnel of this track was built connecting Genoa with La Spezia and crossing almost entirely all this territory through tunnels (32 tunnels were built here!). This means of transportation gives you the possibility to visit the villages in a discreet and easy way and as the train emerges from another tunnel you are treated to another stunning view of one of the best secrets in Italy.

DONT LEAVE WITHOUT The Cinque Terre boasts some of the best coastline hiking trails in the world. The path from Riomaggiore to Manarola is called the Via Dell’Amore - or �Lovers Walk. The beautiful trail along the shore is very easy to hike.

Along the way, you’ll witness where lovers have written their names on the rocks and trees surrounding the walk. In the middle of Riomaggiore and Manarola you will come across ‘The Lover’s Lock’ which is a place to seal your eternal love. At this point there is a concrete throne in the shape of a male and female locked in a kiss, where many people duplicate this creating a lovely photographic opportunity.

The next hike from Manarola to Corniglia is also easy. However, there is an up hill hike and a large zigzag shaped staircase with 385 steps which can be quite a mission in the midday sun! The trail from Corniglia to Vernazza offers incredible views of shore and is only steep at certain places.

The trail from Vernazza to Monterosso is the steepest (you need a reasonably good level of fitness - there is over 250m of climbing over very uneven rocks, totalling approx. 750 ‘steps’ - not easy!), winding through olive orchards and vineyards and offering dramatic ocean views. The paths are narrow, with a very real danger of falling 12 to 15 feet if you lose your footing. If you attempt this hike, take some water, and be prepared to build up a sweat.

The walk between all the villages takes the better part of a day. For those that would rather not walk (or not walk the entire trail), a pedestrian ferry service runs seasonally to all five villages, plus Lerici. The price is reasonable, and gives a nice view of the villages from the water. The milk train that connect all the villages is also a quick way to hop among towns.

It is advised that you attempt the walk as early as possible to avoid the hottest part of the day during the summer period. Sneakers or suitable walking shoes are essential. You must purchase a pass for the hike. It is also possible to purchase a hiking and train pass in one if you wish to catch a train to the next town.

Hiking Times around the Cinque Terre:Monterosso - Vernazza: 90 minutes.Vernazza - Corniglia: 90 minutes.Corniglia - Manarola: 45 minutes.Manarola - Riomaggiore: 20 minutes.Manarola also has its own beautiful vineyard walk.

Language:Italian and although English is spoken widely, the locals always appreciate your small efforts to communicate in their language.Currency: Euro (EUR) Time zone: GMT + 2

T R AV E L

Tailor-made for the over 50s

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Who would expect a highly experienced broadcaster like Michael Aspel to be dogged by moments of doubt?

“For some years I was very cocky and full of myself, yet I’ve always been very nervous,” he tells Retired. “Luckily I was able to handle awkward situations, but you get less and less confident as you grow older.”

Such feelings are not helped by television’s fondness for young faces, and Michael is now a well-preserved 78. But when the 100 Years of Us series earlier this year highlighted changes in society during the first century of the National Census, he was “well qualified to be the front man, having been around for most of that time”. Indeed, for many of us, Michael has always been on the airwaves, but he was a teaboy for a London publisher before National Service in the King’s Royal Rifle Corps in the early 1950s.

“When I came out of the Army, I wanted to be an actor,” he recalls. “My father was very sympathetic. He said: “Get a job or get out’. I took a job with a bedding firm that had contacts in Cardiff with a big store there. I went down there ostensibly to learn the bedding trade and the sales business, but that wasn’t my intention at all. I auditioned for radio drama at the BBC in Cardiff, and they gave me occasional work while I waited for a place to come up on the BBC drama repertory company. I did all sorts of jobs – including drainpipe-layer and gardener – that I could drop at a moment’s notice when they required me for a freelance broadcast. I would rush straight from the building site and be in things like the Children’s Hour serial.

“I intended to pursue acting and in the mid-50s I was on the radio in London, but then someone told me they were looking for continuity announcers at the BBC TV’s Lime Grove Studios.

“There was just this one gigantic dinner suit between all of us. We wore whatever we liked below – it could be tennis shorts or whatever, because the picture never cut below the waist.

Lime Grove was the BBC TV’s main London base, but the news department was at Alexandra Palace. When Richard Baker was indisposed, Michael was drafted in to read one weekend’s bulletins and ended up staying for eight years.

“That was a wonderfully happy time. It was quite different from Lime Grove or the later Television Centre – partly because it was news only and partly because it was such a historic place, where television began, and physically

cut off from the rest of the BBC, and you could not get a better bunch of workmates.”

Michael remembers a time he made news himself. “I went on one night with a black eye. I’d been playing in a charity cricket match the day before and got the ball in my eye. The response was incredible – it was even in the papers in France and America.”

Michael never did become an actor – except that “occasionally theatres let people from the telly do plays, to put bums on seats, and I’ve done a few”. He hosted Ask Aspel, Crackerjack, Aspel and Company, Miss World, Come Dancing, Give Us a Clue, The Six o’Clock Show, This is Your Life and Antiques Roadshow and his mellow tones were also heard on the radio.

On the Light Programme’s Family Favourites sound engineers were at the controls, but Michael learnt to self-operate a studio as part of the launch team of London commercial station Capital Radio.

“When I did something for the BBC after that, they asked if I’d like to self-op and I said I would – but their controls worked the other way round and I said

How Michael stepped up to the mikeWhen the young Michael Aspel headed for Cardiff, his father thought it was to develop his career with a bedding company, but Michael had other ideas, as James Pringle discovered

Michael joins Lance England in the studio of community station Brooklands Radio


Feeling festive in a good causeThe Parkinson’s UK Christmas Concert is at 7pm on December 9 at Central Hall, Westminster, with music, poetry and celebrity guests including Michael Aspel, Jane Asher and singer Paul Potts, first winner of Britain’s Got Talent.

‘Good morning’ and switched myself off.

“Capital was exciting and I did things I never dreamt I would do. There was a brilliant young producer called Simon Booker and the station’s chairman was Richard Attenborough, who would get us tremendous guests with his contacts.

“That kept going with the television chat show, although, to be honest, that was a great disappointment to me. It didn’t compare with the shows I did on Capital, because there were various restrictions and I wasn’t as confident.

“At the radio station my researcher – a woman who had a PhD in mediaeval French – provided me with information on people and I would then prepare the interview. When I started the chat show on Thames, I found there was an agreement between representatives of the guest and our people as to what line the interview would take.”

Who were the most difficult people to interview? “Actors like Elliott Gould – he was utterly impossible – and others just weren’t very good at it.

“Tony Curtis was every interviewer’s gift most of the time, but occasionally he would lose interest and he did that on one of my shows. When I said: ‘Did this make you the happy man you are today?’ his reply was: “Who said I was happy?’ Then he said: ‘And with that, I bid you goodnight’ when we’d only had about three minutes. He walked off and we had to fill in.”

Another live show guest was an inebriated Oliver Reed. “I wasn’t as horrified as I was reported to be,” Michael points out. Always at the back of your mind, in a situation like that, is that ‘This is good telly’.

“The worst experience was the very last chat show we did. It was taken over by Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Bruce Willis, who’d put money into opening a restaurant in the West End. The whole thing became an advert for that and it was just ghastly. I lost control of it and felt very low by the end.”

When Michael hosted Crackerjack and This is Your Life, his laid-back style contrasted the anxious manner of his predecessor, Eamonn Andrews.

“For a big burly man and an ex-boxer, he was amazingly sensitive and easily embarrassed,” says Michael. “When This Your Life and guests wandered from the point, I tried to laugh it off. But it was the most silly, unnatural arrangement. Someone would originally come in with a good anecdote and tell it

I N T E RV I E W

to the researcher, who would type it out and give it back to the person as a script.

“They would then try to learn it, and come stumbling on, trying to remember the script of their own story. That didn’t always work, so you would have to gently nudge them, hopefully without giving away the joke.”

Michael lives near Weybridge, Surrey, with his partner Irene Clark. Retirement has never figured in his plans. He will be among the stars at this year’s Parkinson’s UK charity Christmas Concert at Central Hall, Westminster.

Recent years have seen him guest hosting Have I Got News for You and making a documentary about his wartime evacuee experiences. He has taken to the stage in a Rocky Horror Show tour, as well as appearing in several pantomimes.

“Because of some kind of imaginary gravitas that you bring to the stage, the thing works and you can still have the time of your life while being this old codger.”

Tickets available from September, via www.parkinsons.org.uk/carolconcert or by calling 020 7963 9319.


Retirement from the racing track is the start of an exciting new life for greyhounds. The Retired Greyhound Trust takes these wonderful dogs and helps to transform them into the perfect pet. But, the Trust is only able to continue its great work to find homes for retired greyhounds with kind donations from its supporters.

Some donations are made by people when they pass on. It is their way to give something back with the money they can’t take with them. Have you ever thought about leaving a legacy?

The Retired Greyhound Trust is the national charity dedicated to finding homes for greyhounds at the end of their racing careers and there are hundreds of dogs across the country in need of loving owners.

Peter Laurie, Chief Executive of the Retired Greyhound Trust, said: “It costs a lot to keep the dogs in kennels until new homes can be found for them. Legacy donations help us to ensure every greyhound is vaccinated, neutered and given a health check by the vet before it moves in with its new family. We also provide collars, leads and muzzles for every dog.

“These are costly for the charity, but we feel they are essential services to ensure both the greyhound and its new family get the best possible start to their new lives,” he added.

A greyhound is a trusty companion for all ages who will fit in easily with its new owners or family. After finishing on the track, they undergo a remarkable transformation. They change from being the fastest breed of dog to ‘couch potatoes’ that love lolling around and sleeping in comfy

places. Despite their well-deserved reputation as formidable athletes, they do not require large amounts of exercise and are easy to look after. The vast majority of greyhounds are perfectly content with two 20 minute walks a day.

The Retired Greyhound Trust has 72 branches across the country who look after the dogs in their kennels until homes can be found. Many of these branches are raising funds

Find out more about retired greyhounds from your local branch:Retired Greyhound Trust

Loretta Dixon tel: 01793 721253e: [email protected] www.swindon.retiredgreyhounds.org

and showing off the dogs who need homes at dog shows, fetes, carnivals and summer shows throughout the Spring and Summer.

There are all sorts of ways to get involved with the charity as well as leaving a legacy – from adopting a greyhound or sponsoring a dog in kennels, to helping their local branches with fundraising or volunteering.

Without funds or volunteers to help, the charity will struggle to continue its great work in finding homes for around 5,000 retired greyhounds with caring owners every year.

For more information about the work of the Retired Greyhound Trust or to discuss leaving a legacy, please contact our head office on 029 8335 3016.

Support a Charity This ChristmasThe Retired Greyhound has launched its range of Christmas cards with money raised from sales ploughed back into the charity.

Choose from traditional or animated cards. Each pack of 12 cards has three different designs and are priced at £5, including postage and packaging within the UK.

Make a Difference – Leave a Legacy

You might not think of Age UK Gloucestershire when you are arranging your insurance but we can often help make your money go further, which in these hard times is a big deal. Not only that but instead of making your arrangements online or over the phone, you can come in and see a real person, our insurance manager Giles. No press one for this or press two for that, or spending ages falling asleep to “Greensleeves” while on hold.

Even better, any commission that is earned when we arrange your policy is ploughed directly back into providing support for the county’s older people. So if you arrange your insurance through us, a proportion of the premium will go to charity, at no cost to you.

When arranging insurance we go out of our way to think of everything you might need. Age UK Travel Insurance for example has no upper age limit and you can cover your existing medical conditions (wherever possible) so while arranging cover elsewhere might be difficult, with us it couldn’t be simpler*. There is also a free pre-travel advice line for advice on visas, passports, inoculations, time zones, bank opening hours, local holidays, motoring restrictions and other holiday concerns. You can enjoy your holiday with the peace of mind that you have chosen the right cover.

We can also offer Car Insurance which includes a message relay service - a friend or relative can be contacted so they are aware of your situation if you have an accident, European cover for up to 180 days per year, and a 24-hour accident helpline.

Age UK Home Insurance includes a legal helpline: expert independent and confidential advice on any legal problem, and a domestic emergency service: a local authorised repairer can visit your home and you will be advised of any charges beforehand. If the

incident is covered by your policy, the cost will be repaid (minus any excess). Both of these helplines are available 24 hours a day.

Age UK has campaigned to help reduce fuel poverty through the Spread the Warmth campaign. We are also calling for more to be done to tackle fuel poverty and energy efficiency. It makes sense then for us to provide a service to ensure you are getting value for money with your energy bills. The Age UK Group has worked closely with E.ON to create exclusive tailored energy packages. Giles can tell you more.

Many people are now making arrangements for their funeral well in advance to save their family money and distress. The Age UK Guaranteed Funeral Plan takes care of funeral costs and arrangements in advance. It is easy to understand and arrange. Pay ahead and you beat inflation by freezing funeral costs at today’s prices. Three individual plans give you the option to tailor your plan to suit your needs. You can also add special requests such as favourite hymns or readings. Again, we have tried to think of everything. No one is excluded from the plan – the only requirement is that you are over 50 years of age.

Whatever you need, Giles is here to help. We even have our own Age UK Weekly Lottery and you’ll have 1‚000 chances of winning a cash prize every week and the satisfaction of knowing you’re supporting our work helping older people.

For more information on any of these services, please contact Giles on 01452 422660 or pop in to see us.

Travel, Car and Home Insurance are provided by Ageas Insurance Limited.

* Subject to medical screening.

Insurance and more …

Age UK Gloucestershire is a trading name of Age Concern Gloucestershire Ltd, a limited company. Registered in England and Wales No: 415173. Registered Office: Bleak House Station Road, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL1 1EW. Age Concern Gloucestershire Ltd is an appointed representative of Age UK Enterprises Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority for insurance mediation. FSA Register number 311438. ACOSW1648V1SEP11.

Everyone needs insurance, so why notarrange it through Age UK Gloucestershire?

14

No.1 Fear in Retirement - Running Out Of Money!

*A recent survey of people aged 44 to 75 showed 61% are more afraid of running out of money than they are of dying!

So you are approaching or have finally reached retirement. But wait, your retirement income is substantially less than your salary and your cash savings are yielding a pitiful income.

How will you maintain your standard of living?

Supplement income with further withdrawals from capital? But, if you do this how long will your funds last?

Well, it is possible to maintain your standard of living and accurately predict how long your funds will last. Furthermore, we can help you achieve the things you want in life, to enjoy the lifestyle you want now, without ever fearing you will run out of money. Or worse still, die with too much!

Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Thousands of people are faced with this situation. We are all living longer and uncertain whether to spend and enjoy, or save and wait. Inheritance Tax, Long-Term Care, Equity Release, Income & Capital Gains Tax……..it can be a minefield!

In order to solve this dilemma, you need to understand where you are now and consider your future needs, desires and concerns. Encapsulate all this information into one easy to understand plan, which will illustrate your future cash-flow.

My name is Michael Pimm, Director of Cotswold Financial Planning Ltd. I am a Financial Planner who helps clients achieve the lifestyle they want in retirement, without the fear of ever running out of money, or dying with too much. If you think this could be of interest to you then please contact my office who will arrange an initial meeting without obligation or cost.

Here’s what some of our clients say …………

From our first meeting it was clear that you were different to other advisers. Not interested in trying to sell us ‘products’, you explained your fee-based approach and how our no risk portfolio of Bank & Building Society savings could still achieve our goal and allow us to sleep at night. You have gone on to sort Wills, Inheritance Tax and Pension issues for us, and continue to be a guiding influence on all matters financial. Many thanks and look forward to seeing you at the next review meeting.

- Mr & Mrs M, Coventry

Michael, through your cash-flow planning and expert management of our pensions and savings, we can now enjoy our retirement without worry or stress. Thank you.

- Mr & Mrs Mc, Coventry*AARP - source Allianz Life Insurance.

Call Cotswold Financial Planning for advice on:

• Pensions • Investments • ISA • Equity Release • Wealth Management • Lifestyle Planning • Cash-flow Forecasting

“How can we be sure we are fully prepared for Retirement?”

Cotswold Financial Planning Ltd10a Astley House, Cromwell Park, Banbury Road, Chipping Norton, Oxon, OX7 5SR.Tel: 01608 651608 Fax: 01608 643096Email: [email protected]

www.cotswoldfinancialplanning.co.uk

Registered in England No. 6674605. Authorised by The Financial Services Authority FSA No. 487893.


Strictly Come Dancing stars Ann Widdecombe and Anton du Beke are leading the

way in helping thousands of older people to dance their way to better health.

Less than 10 per cent of over-75s get enough exercise, according to a new report by care home provider Bupa. Even in the 65-74 age group, that figure is under 20 per cent.

The report concludes that dancing, no matter how gentle, is beneficial to the health, fitness and emotional wellbeing of older people. It improves co-ordination, reaction times, muscle endurance, flexibility, gait and strength – which all reduce the risk of falls. It can also play a part in the prevention or treatment of conditions as diverse as dementia, arthritis and Parkinson’s disease.

Bupa’s Shall We Dance? campaign is urging policy-makers to pay special attention to dance when looking at ways to promote fitness in older people. It’s also encouraging dancers, dance troupes and dance teachers – of any style – to contact their local Bupa care home to share their passion for dance by performing for residents or offering dance classes to people who have a range of mobility issues.

Residents and staff from three of company’s Kent homes – The Sidcup Nursing & Residential Centre and Abbotsleigh Mews Residential & Nursing Home, both in Sidcup, and Elmstead Residential Home in Chislehurst – attended the campaign launch in London at the National Theatre. They were welcomed by Bupa Care Services medical director Dr Clive Bowman and took to the floor with the Strictly stars after the

former government minister and her professional dance partner had given a demonstration.

Anton told Retired: “This campaign is a great initiative. When you get to a certain age it’s easy to do nothing, but the thing about dance is that it’s very social. It gets you involved with lots of different people of a similar age and you can dance at your own pace – you don’t have to do it too fast. It’s great for the mind and body, but to me it’s the social interaction that’s important.

“I love to dance socially. I enjoy the whole element of taking hold of a girl and having a bit of a dance around, whether she can dance or not. It’s terrific fun.

“Often I hear stories like: ‘Fifteen years ago my wife passed away and last year I went on a cruise

PIC CAPTION: Elmstead Home’s Kathleen McIlroy and Clifford Morgan from the Sidcup Centre partner up with Anton du Beke and Ann Widdecombe.

Could it be time to take to the floor?Dancing can be wonderful to watch, but joining in really does you good, Strictly

legends Ann Widdecombe and Anton du Beke tell James Pringle

and met Doris, we had a dance and we’re together now. We’re getting married next year, and I’m 84.’ That’s brilliant!”

Nobody should worry that they are not as agile as they once were, Anton believes. You can do as much or as little as you like, at any speed, and if you have a partner, you can hold onto them.

“Don’t feel you’ve got to do it wonderfully,” he stressed. “Just do it for your own enjoyment.”

Anne Widdecombe added: “When you’re my age [63] you do quite a lot. I walk, I swim and a lot of people my age still play quite active sports. In 20 years’ time that’s not going to be quite so feasible, but you still need to keep all the bits and pieces moving – and that includes the brain.


“With dancing you can move at your own pace, whatever suits you. Because you have to remember a routine and know which step comes after what, it keeps the brain active – and it keeps you sociable, because you can’t really dance on your own.

“It’s a great way for the elderly to keep a little bit in trim. I don’t think anybody’s going to worry about making fools of themselves – they’re not going to do what I did on television in front of eight million people! Anyway, most people are quite confident, they’ve seen it all before.

“While I was doing Strictly, people kept coming up to me and saying ‘You’ve inspired me to take up dancing’, and some of them were well beyond my age.”

Kathleen McIlroy is a sprightly 86-year-old who could pass for 20 years younger. The Elmstead Home resident is a fine advertisement for the benefits of dancing and yoga. Her fitness helped her survive an extremely serious setback.

“Mum was marching to the Cenotaph with the last year when she had a major heart attack,” her daughter, Kathy Avery, explained. “The hospital told me she wouldn’t pull through. She was in intensive care for three and half weeks, but she made it. The doctors couldn’t believe it, and I think it was purely down to the fitness of her body with the dancing and yoga she did.”

Kathleen told Retired: “I’ve been dancing since I was about 15 – ballroom and Latin – and I thoroughly enjoy it. I’m coming up against arthritis now, but I just work round it.

“It’s a good thing for old people to get out and go dancing. It doesn’t matter if you don’t know a lot – it’s amazing how you pick it up, and it brings people together. It’s just a matter of getting over your inhibitions.”

Perpetual motion for dancing stars

After last year’s Strictly series, Anton and his regular partner, Erin Boag, went on their third national tour and they are now planning a show for mid-January to late March 2012.

Tour titles to date, Cheek to Cheek, Stepping Out and Putting on the Ritz, identify Fred Astaire as a major inspiration.

“I love him,” said Anton. “Everything we do is a nod in his direction.”

These days he and Erin cannot find time for ballroom dancing competitions. “I miss them. I miss that level of dancing, that intensity and that drive to meet the next man. I enjoyed the competitive side of things.”

Anton’s Strictly success has seen him branch out into TV presenting, with the shows Step Up to the Plate and Hole in the Wall.

“Hole in the Wall was just hysterical. I don’t think we’ll see it any more, sadly. I wish they’d bring it back, because it’s fun. Half an hour of nonsense and we loved doing it.”

Other programmes are in discussion and Anton hopes there will be more opportunities. Meanwhile, he looks forward to this year’s series of Strictly.

Many viewers were surprised when former Westminster big hitter Ann Widdecombe joined the 2010 line-up. “All the time I was a politician, it would not have been appropriate,” she said, “and that is why I turned down Strictly every year from 2004 to 2009.

“I wouldn’t have had time and, in terms of dignity, I couldn’t have done it as an MP. My constituents would not have expected it and I wouldn’t have done it to them. But once I retired there was no obligation to conduct myself as if I was still a Member of Parliament. I can do anything now!”

Ann’s harshest critic during the TV series was judge Craig Revel Horwood. For the live national tour of the show, someone came up with the masterstroke of making Craig and Ann dance partners.

“Oh it was such fun!” said Ann. “We both enjoyed it so much that we’re doing pantomime together in December.”

For a moment, your reporter thought she was joking, but it’s true. The unlikely pair will be appearing at Dartford’s Orchard Theatre in Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. Ann will be lady-in-waiting to the Wicked Queen, played by Craig.

“We enjoyed the tour so much,” Ann added. “We were getting a huge reaction from huge audiences. Sure, when you do it on television you’ve got millions of viewers, but you can’t see ’em. All you can see is quite a small studio audience. But when you’re playing Wembley and the O2, you’re stacking up tens of thousands and the reaction is just overwhelming.

“I danced every day for five weeks, and twice a day when we were doing matinees.”

Ann confessed that she was never a serious competitive dancer on Strictly. “I was doing a pantomime act. On day one, Anton said to me: ‘The less time you spend with your feet on the floor, the better’. Hence all the lifting, spinning, dragging, flying – anything to avoid actually doing the steps!

“The flying was Anton’s bright idea. I said to him: ‘We’ve got to do something, because I’m never going to win on dancing. He said: ‘Fly off the balcony’. I’ve got terrible height phobia, but I did understand the potential, so I flew off the balcony.”

Once Snow White is over, Ann will be ensconced in her study. “My agent is very keen that I reapply myself to my writing. I haven’t had a novel out since 2005 and I need to get one out next year. And I’ve got an autobiography to write. So I really do need to apply myself to my word processor.”

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 ‘Mediterranean Escapes’ (BBC Books, £20) here are two of Rick’s favourite recipes inspired by flavours of the Med.

Rick Stein's Mediterranean Escapes Recipes

Bring 4.5 litres water to the boil in a large saucepan with 8 teaspoon salt. Meanwhile, put the oil and garlic into a deep sauté or frying pan and place it over a medium heat. As soon as the garlic begins to sizzle round the edges, add the crushed chillies, green chilli and sliced porcini and cook briskly for 2-3 minutes. Add the tomatoes and cook for another minute or two. Set to one side and keep hot.

Add the pasta to the pan of boiling water and cook for 9 minutes or until al dente. Heat another large pan over a high heat. Add the clams and the wine, cover and cook over a high heat for 2-3 minutes until they have all just opened. (Discard any that stay closed.) Tip them into a colander set over a bowl to collect the clam juices.

Add all but the last tablespoon or two of the clam cooking liquor (which might be gritty) to the porcini sauce, return to the heat and simmer rapidly until it has reduced by half to a well-flavoured sauce.

Drain the pasta and return to the pan with the cooked clams, the porcini sauce and parsley and toss together well. Serve immediately.

5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1/4 teaspoon crushed dried chillies1 mild green chilli, stalk removed and thinly sliced225g fresh porcini mushrooms, cleaned and thickly sliced2 large, ripe vine tomatoes, skinned, seeded and sliced400 g dried spaghetti1 kg small clams, such as carpet-shell, washed60 ml dry white wineA large handful flat-leaf parsley, leaves finely choppedSalt

SERVES 4Vittorio’s Pastawith Clams and Porcini

18

SERVES 8-10

500 g tubular pasta, such as rigatoni, tubetti or tortiglioni2 eggs, lightly beaten50 g finely grated Greek kefalotiricheese or parmesan cheese2 tablespoons melted butter 10 g fresh white breadcrumbs

For the white sauce115 g butter115 g plain flour1.2 litres full-cream milk, plus a little extra1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

For the meat sauce4 tablespoons olive oil1 medium onion, finely chopped4 garlic cloves, finely chopped 2 celery sticks, finely chopped1kg lean minced beef200 ml red wine400-g can chopped tomatoes2 tablespoons tomato purée10-cm piece cinnamon stick1/4 teaspoon ground cloves1 tablespoon dried oregano, Greek if possible2 tablespoons fresh copped oregano3 fresh bay leavesSalt and freshly ground black pepper

Pastitsio: Beef and Macaroni Piewith Cinnamon, Red Wine and Kefalotiri Cheese

For the meat sauce, heat the olive oil in a medium-sized pan, add the onion, garlic and celery and fry until just beginning to brown. Add the minced beef and fry over a high heat for 3-4 minutes, breaking up any lumps with the wooden spoon as it browns. Add the red wine, tomatoes, tomato purée, cinnamon stick, ground cloves, dried cloves, dried and fresh oregano, bay leaves, 100ml water, 11/2 teaspoons salt and some black pepper, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring now and then, until the sauce has thickened but is still nicely moist. Remove and discard the cinnamon stick and bay leaves.

Bring 4.5 litres water to boil in a large saucepan with 8 teaspoons salt. Add the pasta and cook until a al dente - about 13 mins, but take care not to overcook as it will cook a little further in the oven. Drain well, transfer to a large bowl and leave to cool slightly.

For the white sauce, melt the butter in a medium-sized non-stick saucepan, add the flour and cook, stirring, over a medium heat, for 1 minute. Gradually beat in the milk, then bring to the boil, stirring, lower the heat and leave to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with the nutmeg and some salt and pepper to taste.

Preheat the over to 1800C/Gas Mark 4. Stir 250ml (about one-fifth) of the white sauce into the warm pasta with the beaten eggs and half the grated cheese. Keep the remaining sauce warm over a low heat, stirring now and then and adding more milk if it begins to get a little thick.

Use the melted butter to grease a large, shallow ovenproof dish that measures about 23 x 33 cm across and 7cm deep. Spread one-third of the pasta over the base of the dish and cover with half the meat sauce. Add another third of the pasta and then the rest of the meat sauce, then cover with a final layer of pasta. Spoon over the remaining white sauce. Mix the remaining grated cheese with the breadcrumbs and sprinkle them over the top. Bake for 40 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.

T R A D I T I O N A L C O T S W O L D P U B A N D R E S T A U R A N T

The Edgemoor InnThe Edgemoor Inn is in the village of Edge, overlooking the beautiful, picturesque Painswick Valley.

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

Local Produce

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

Home Cooked Meals & Real Ales

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

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

Fantastic views over the Painswick Valley & surrounding countryside

Edge | Near Stroud | Gloucestershire GL6 6ND Tel: 01452 813576email: [email protected]

• Freshcookedfood&localrealalesservedlunch&evening• Extensivepatioarea• Largediningroomwithalightandmodernfeel

Visit www.edgemoor-inn.com for full menu and more details

Sample MenuOur menu uses the finest locally sourced ingredients. Here is a selection from the menu.

Appetisers Marinated olives, feta cheese & dipping oil with warm ciabatta - £3.50Mixed olives - £2.50Garlic bread - £2.95Garlic bread with cheese and bacon - £3.95

StartersHomemade soup of the day served with honey & seed bread roll - £4.95Deep fried whitebait with cayenne pepper - £6.00

Smoked mackerel pate with red onion chutney - £6.00Baked goat cheese with honey & walnut crust on pastry crouton, balsamic glaze -£6.50Portabello mushroom stuffed with 3 cheese rarebit, dressed leaves - £6.00

MainMealsOld spot beer batter haddock with chips, peas and homemade tartare sauce - £11.50Fillet of red snapper with chorizo rice, wilted spinach & red pepper dressing - £12.50Baked salmon with bacon butter, asparagus & orange salad, new potatoes - £12.50Grilled lamb’s liver, bacon & creamy mash with onion gravy - £10.50

Edgemoor Inn.indd 1 27/10/2011 11:22


How Do You Want To Be Remembered?

Have you ever thought about leaving something in your will to a charity?Leaving a legacy to an organisation such as Age UK Gloucestershire is a great way to continue making a contribution for the benefit of others, even after you die. Such gifts enable us to develop new services, as well as retain and subsidise existing ones. This means we can offer support, advice and services to even more people in later life in Gloucestershire, as well as continuing our important campaigning work.

All money raised by Age UK Gloucestershire, including legacies, is spent improving the lives of older people in the county.

If you would like to find out more about how to leave a legacy, discuss how such a gift would be used or how you might support us in other ways, please contact;

Christina Snell, Chief Executive Officer 01452 [email protected]

Age UK Gloucestershire, Bleak House, 26 Station Road, Gloucester GL1 1EW.

National TrustVictorian Christmas at the DocksFriday 25 November 2011Winter Workshop - Edible Gifts Visit the stalls in and around Gloucester Quays and the docks, with Cotswold Crafts on display in the museum itself.

Dates: 1 December 2011 10:00am. All Tickets £25

HidcoteTreat your loved ones to some homemade gifts this year. Learn how to make a variety of sweet and savoury treats that make ideal presents, just in time for Christmas.

Event details

• BookingEssential01386438333• SuitableforGroups• Pleasemeetinthecourtyard.• AssistanceDogsonlyarewelcome• Priceincludesmorningcoffeeandlunch

Festive DiningLove the thought of a traditional Christmas lunch but hate the thought of cooking it? The why not let our chef take the strain this year? Join us for one of our traditional Christmas lunches or our special Victorian inspired festive feast.

Event details

• BookingEssential01386438703• NormalAdmissionChargesApply• SuitableforGroups• AssistanceDogsonlyarewelcome• Childrenwelcome• Priceincludesathreecoursefestivelunch,coffee and mints.

Event availability and pricesSunday, 04 December 2011 12pm - 2pm.All Tickets £25Sunday, 11 December 2011 12pm - 2pm.All Tickets £25Sunday, 18 December 2011 12pm - 2pm.All Tickets £25

Winter Wreath Making WorkshopLet your creative side shine by joining one of our wreath making workshops. Our experts will be on hand for those all important top tips.

Event details

• BookingEssential01386438333• SuitableforGroups• Pleasemeetinthecourtyard.• Priceincludesmorningcoffeeandlunch.

Event availability and pricesDaily from 08 December to 10 December 201110am - 2pm. All Tickets £26

Winter Workshop - Green Grows the HollyDiscover how to make a stunning festive table centrepiece with our resident expert.

Event details

• BookingEssential01386438333• SuitableforGroups• Pleasemeetinthecourtyard.• Priceincludesmorningcoffeeandlunch.

Event availability and pricesThursday, 15 December 2011 10am - 2pm.All Tickets £25.

More Information: Lisa Edinborough, 01386 438333, [email protected]

OUT & ABOUT

T R A D I T I O N A L C O T S W O L D P U B A N D R E S T A U R A N T

The Edgemoor InnThe Edgemoor Inn is in the village of Edge, overlooking the beautiful, picturesque Painswick Valley.

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

Local Produce

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

Home Cooked Meals & Real Ales

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

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

Fantastic views over the Painswick Valley & surrounding countryside

Edge | Near Stroud | Gloucestershire GL6 6ND Tel: 01452 813576email: [email protected]

• Freshcookedfood&localrealalesservedlunch&evening• Extensivepatioarea• Largediningroomwithalightandmodernfeel

Visit www.edgemoor-inn.com for full menu and more details

Sample MenuOur menu uses the finest locally sourced ingredients. Here is a selection from the menu.

Appetisers Marinated olives, feta cheese & dipping oil with warm ciabatta - £3.50Mixed olives - £2.50Garlic bread - £2.95Garlic bread with cheese and bacon - £3.95

StartersHomemade soup of the day served with honey & seed bread roll - £4.95Deep fried whitebait with cayenne pepper - £6.00

Smoked mackerel pate with red onion chutney - £6.00Baked goat cheese with honey & walnut crust on pastry crouton, balsamic glaze -£6.50Portabello mushroom stuffed with 3 cheese rarebit, dressed leaves - £6.00

MainMealsOld spot beer batter haddock with chips, peas and homemade tartare sauce - £11.50Fillet of red snapper with chorizo rice, wilted spinach & red pepper dressing - £12.50Baked salmon with bacon butter, asparagus & orange salad, new potatoes - £12.50Grilled lamb’s liver, bacon & creamy mash with onion gravy - £10.50

Edgemoor Inn.indd 1 27/10/2011 11:22


In Germany and Austria it can get as low as -20, even -30ºC and a single snowfall can be as much as 3ft or more overnight. To deal with this severe cold they need powerful heating able to cope with sub zero temperatures and sudden climate change. They need excellent control and above all - low running costs without the need for constant servicing and replacement parts. The solution, incredibly... is electric!

This incredible heating could be the answer to help beat ever increasing energy costs and amazingly, it is not gas or oil, or solid fuel - but clean electric! All you need is standard supply and NO

special tariff like economy 7. All over Europe more people are choosing to heat their homes and offices with this very special form of electric heating in preference to oil gas or E7. In our area, more and more of our customers are making that same decision and when you see this incredible heating for yourself you could be next! The heating looks just like conventional radiators, but STOP! it is very different! Put simply, that clunky central heating boiler needing constant servicing and replacement parts isn’t the only choice anymore! Now you can heat your homes, offices, extensions or conservatories with these incredible heaters providing individual control over every room without the need for a central control or wasted boiler space. This incredible German heating simply plugs in! Job Done! You can do just one room or the whole house! This heating, whilst quite NEW in the UK has been mainstream for a very long time in

Germany and Austria. Sunflow Ltd. offer a complete solution which can include disposing of your old central heating system, even oil tanks!Discover for yourself this incredible German heating.

Get your FREE brochure by calling our 24hr Brochure Line on: 0800 158 8270 or email: [email protected] ServiceSunflow can take the worry out of disposing of old central heating systems. We have a package price that includes the safe and certificated removal of oil, lpg and gas systems, even old oil tanks!Questions? Call Suzanne on 0800 158 8272

At Last! A NEW FORM OF HEATING FROM GERMANYSimple to install, Powerful, and no more servicing - EVER!

A ReAl AlteRnAtive to oil/GAs HeAtinG - Ask About ouR ReplAcement seRvice

Bus to town this winter!

In the era of cheap gas and oil nobody questioned central heating systems. Does it make sense now? If you want to heat your bathroom up for half an hour in the morning, firing up a full central heating system seems a wasteful option. Given recent fuel price hikes, watching a dvd in the lounge with the heat blasting away round the entire house seems crazy. With wet central heating systems we also tend to ignore the high maintenance, replacement costs and servicing.

Modular – Control Your Heating Costs

German and Scandinavian households are turning to long life modular electric heating. Using specialist German radiators, one hundred per cent of the heat can be placed in the room or rooms that are being used, allowing unused rooms to be unheated or placed on very low heat. This means that you have much better control of your heating costs.

www.germanelectricheaters.com

Dean Forest Railway, Forest Road, Lydney, Gloucestershire GL15 4ETGeneral Telephone: 01594 845840

Santa Specials 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th & 24th December

Relax in the comfort of your reserved seat as the excitement mounts and then Santa appears in the carriage to talk to each child and hand out the presents as you pass through the mysterious forest!

Don’t forget to bring your camera to snap this amazing

time for the children! And there’s a sherry and mince pie for the adults as well! Seats are limited so we advise booking as soon as possible. Santa looks forward to seeing you on our Santa Specials - a superb way to 27th & 31st December, 1st & 2nd January

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Steam Hauled Trains on the 27th December, 1st & 2nd January -

Diesel Railcar on 31st December

Christmas Day is over and you need some fresh air and exercise! Come and enjoy a day on the Dean Forest

wotton dental & implant-referral clinic THROW AWAY YOUR LOOSE DENTURES & RESTORE YOUR CONFIDENT SMILE

OUR TEAM ARE VERY EXCITED TO OFFER DENTAL IMPLANT TREATMENT TO REPLACE MISSING TEETH

OR GIVE YOU A FIXED ALTERNATIVE TO THE DENTURES YOU WOULD RATHER NOT BE WEARING.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP TO THE SMILE YOU HAVE ALWAYS WISHED FOR ....... CALL US TODAY

TO ARRANGE TO SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR ADVISERS WHO WILL BE PLEASED TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS. ( Quote reference RM001 for a new patient examination fee including x-rays reduced from £59 to £39 )

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Wotton dental & implant-referral clinic is located in the historic Cotswold market town of Wotton-under-edge.

We take pride in our gentle treatment in a friendly, relaxed environment, providing a full range of cosmetic and restorative dental care with a particular interest in dental implantology.

If your dentures are uncomfortable because they are bulky, move around, click or are painful, then implants can be used to support them and hence improve chewing and so, aid digestion as well as giving greater self-confidence. This is a very cost-effective solution to an age-old problem of loose dentures.

Alternatively, dental implants allow us to replace dentures altogether providing you with fixed restorations that allow you to bite, chew, smile, talk and kiss with the same confidence as with natural teeth.

Missing back teeth can be replaced with implants to reduce that ‘sagging effect’ on your cheeks to improve facial support and provide a more youthful appearance.

Forget those embarrassing moments when your dentures come adrift in public.

Forget about those loose dentures limiting your choice on the menu at your favourite restaurant and make eating your favourite foods a pleasure again.

Say goodbye to messy dental adhesives! It’s like having your natural teeth back again!

Our team brings together years of dedicated training in dental implantology to provide our patients with a complete service in order to treat missing teeth.

Whether you have one tooth, several teeth or even all your teeth missing, we can tailor a range of treatment options to suit your demands and your budget.

Wotton dental & implant-referral clinic accepts implant-referrals from other dental clinics as well as self-referring patients.

Take the First Step Towards the Smile You Have Always Wished for ... Ask our friendly Staff a Question or Book a Consultation Today Tel: 01453 844428


WHEN it comes to treating our ailments these days most people have a more open mind about what can help them and may combine traditional medicine and alternative therapies with great success.

Sensible care, as always, needs to be employed in anything health-related and sometimes your GP’s opinion may be needed to check if any particular therapies are not recommended for you or your condition.

However, there are plenty of therapy options available across the UK and, reassuringly, governing bodies to ensure standards of practice. There are also millions of satisfied customers of alternative – or complementary – therapies who insist these have been successful in dealing with health problems ranging from asthma and migraine to digestive problems and muscle strains. Even though for many of us in the Western world this is a relatively new approach - and there are certainly sceptics about their effectiveness - there is evidence that many of these alternative therapies have been successfully in use around the world for centuries.

Acupuncture, for example, is an ancient Chinese medical procedure involving the insertion and manipulation of needles at more than 1,000 points in the human body. It’s used to relieve pain during surgery or in rheumatic conditions and also to treat conditions varying from anxiety and depression, to arthritis, asthma, eczema, sports’ injuries, migraine and even gastro-intestinal problems.

The word “acupuncture” means “needle piercing” and the skin is penetrated by special needles in a painless process which is meant to allow the body to transmit

energy or qi (pronounced chee) through pathways or meridians to heal and promote wellbeing.

A common alternative therapy for which you don’t necessarily have to have an ailment but which certainly helps combat stress and makes you feel better is Aromatherapy. This is a relaxing treatment using massage techniques together with blended essential oils. Usually, explained beautician and alternative therapist Angela Close, there is a consultation prior to treatment “to try and build a picture of which oils would be beneficial to the individual – some have anti-bacterial effects, anti-fungal and anti-viral. With the use of massage, the oils penetrate the skin usually after about 20 minutes and have a very calming effect, soothing the mind, body and spirit.”

Aromatherapy can be used for a range of physiological and psychological conditions including anxiety, stress and insomnia, muscular aches and pains, headaches, digestive ailments and menstrual problems. It’s also gentle enough to be used on people of all ages. Added Angela: “Aromatherapy is not a cure for disease; its most potent effect helps relax the mind and body, relieves pain and restores the body’s systems to a state of balance in which healing can best take place.”

Some people suffering from Parkinson’s Disease have found relief and help from a holistic method of healing called Bowen Therapy which is a hands-on technique exponents say prompts the body to re-set and heal itself. Marie Hurst is a qualified Bowen therapist, and she explains: “It’s like acupuncture without any needles – it can be very relaxing although it may not suit everyone. However, I’ve treated several people with Parkinson’s over the years and they have become very

Open your mind to alternative therapies

Angela Close - Beautician and Alternative Therapist


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relaxed because Bowen helps the body release stress at a very deep level. Some have also reported a reduction in their tremors during treatment and a sound night’s sleep afterwards.”

Some alternative therapies seem unconnected to the ailments they may treat. Reflexology, for instance, involves application of pressure to the feet and hands using specific thumb, finger and hand techniques to try to effect physical changes elsewhere in the body. The technique dates back as far as the Egyptians and is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that are said to reflect an image of the body on the hands and feet. The purpose is to create relaxation, reduce pain, improve blood flow and post-operative recovery and aid mental health by interrupting stress signals and re-setting the body’s balance.

People with nasal problems or with head pains have found relief in an unusual therapy called Hopi Ear Candling. At the very least, this is a relaxing treatment which promotes a feeling of wellbeing. You lie on your side on a heated bed in a peaceful environment, and the hollow candle is placed in the ear with the other end lit. “Certainly, some of my clients have found it very soothing and pain-relieving,” said Angela Close, who has been using the therapy for more than 20 years.

Another ancient healing method is Reiki, a Japanese word meaning Universal Life Energy which relates to a system of natural healing. Its ideology is that natural healing flows in a powerful and concentrated form

through the hands of the Reiki-giver. The recipient simply lies on a couch or bed and relaxes comfortably. There is no need to remove any clothing, and the practitioner gently places his or her hands in a sequence of positions which cover the whole of the body. Each position is held for several minutes and, in some of them, the hand is held closely to the body rather than actually on it. “It involves your body, mind and soul,” added Angela. “Reiki balances the energy in the body, heals holistically, relieves pain and relaxes and reduces stress, among many other things.”

Some businesses now bring exponents of Indian Head Massage into the workplace to help stressed out staff to relax and ultimately perform better. Certainly, it’s a safe, simple yet effective therapy that provides relief from aches and pains and stress – and promotes hair growth! The head, neck and shoulders are important energy centres within the body. “If you’re feeling stressed or angry, tension tends to accumulate in these areas,” stated Angela. “The tension can later show up as a stiff neck and shoulders, eyestrain and even hair-loss.”

Indian head massage involves working with a firm and gentle rhythm to help unknot blockages and relieve the uncomfortable build-up of tension. Fans say it also works on an emotional level, calming the spirit, promoting relaxation and banishing stress.

For more information, go to the Complementary Therapists Association at www.ctha.com or the Association of Natural Medicine at www.associationnaturalmedicine.co.uk

T R A V E LH E A L T H

www.retiredmagazines.co.uk

A Guide to Dentures ....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.

Difficulties in Constructinga Good Set of DenturesConstructing 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.

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.

Removal Partial DenturesIt was long thought that removable partial dentures had to be rigid to be effective. The innovation of the Valpast flexible partial denture allows the appliance to adapt to the constant movement and flexibility in your mouth.

The preparation is relatively simple as your natural teeth don’t need to be altered. The Valpast flexible partial denture is virtually invisible, no telltale metal clasps and the material itself blends with the tissue in your mouth so that the only thing that shows is your beautiful smile.

Cotswold Dental Laboratory Ltd is the first established Dental Technician in Gloucestershire offering Valpast Flexible Partials.

How Long Should Dentures Last?The question we should ask is, how long will my dentures be functional for? Dentures can last twenty or more years, but will lose their function (chewing ability, proper fit etc.) probably after two years. This will depend on many factors:

1. Quality of dentures. 2. Age of Patient. 3. General health of patient. 4. Any drastic change in weight.

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.

26


Your Dentures need Attention1. 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.

Loose DenturesCan 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 teethTeeth can be replaced with a new set.

Major improvements in Facial FeaturesPadding 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 aspare set of Dentures made?Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage.

Where do I go to havea good set of Dentures made?Every dentist can make dentures, but not all of them will specialise in denture making.

Ask your Dental Technician for recommendations of suitable Dentist.

Summary1. Clean your dentures daily with a denture brush and denture cream.2. Have your dentures inspected every two years, and re-lined or ultra-sonically cleaned.3. Have a new set made every 5 years if possible.4. Keep a spare set for emergencies.5. Remember, dentures do not have to hurt and do not need to be uncomfortable.6. With a new set of dentures, you should receive a written guarantee, a detailed prescription of the materials used in your dentures, cleaning and servicing instructions, and a cleaning kit.7. Dentures so life-like you’d think they were real.

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Prime Minister David Cameron is conscious of this huge and valuable regular input and it is one of the central props of his Big Society. In fact, volunteers generally are now so vital, and held in such high esteem in many organisations, that they are often encouraged to take vocational training and enhance their c.v. as a stepping stone to permanent work.

As we become older, we may not only be reliant on volunteers at different times and for a variety of help, but also may discover that becoming a volunteer ourselves is a simple way to enrich our own lives and make us valuable once more.

Charities large and small both benefit from and encourage volunteering. You may well find that your local hospice, for example, can gratefully use even a small amount of your spare time in some practical way.This may be with fundraising, making small items to sell, driving, donating your time in charity shops or even arranging flowers for the wards. Special skills may also be very welcome to organisations which have little spare cash and look to donated help to improve their services and aid patients in practical ways. And schools regularly welcome in volunteers to help youngsters with reading skills.

One organisation that relies on its valuable volunteers and encourages the practice is Age UK – created by the merging of Age Concern and Help the Aged. It has

around 70,000 volunteers in its central hub and in local Age UK centres which act as its partners.

And when you consider that the organisation has 170 centres across the country and more than 500 shops, that involves an awful lot of volunteers!

Kate Adams, head of engagement and volunteering

at Age UK, explained that they run a wide variety of vital services with volunteer help. These include befriending services going to see older, isolated individuals in their homes, driving vehicles from communities to local centres, helping and running its charity shops including sorting, pricing and serving, delivering information to older people and acting as trustees to give strategic governance in individual areas.

“It doesn’t matter whether people have only a couple of hours a week to spare,” she stresses. “They can offer extremely valuable help to the services we deliver.”

Kate adds that the “other side of the coin” is that the organisation recognises the benefits to individuals of volunteering.

“There is a feelgood factor, people get out and about, are part of a large-scale network. This can be particularly important during retirement when

we are used to having this network provided, and need to start again to create a new one,” states Kate.

“We have younger volunteers as well as older ones but the latter tell us that they love the friendship and companionship that they get when they meet up with other volunteers. Particularly if your own family network of people are getting on with their lives, it’s easy to get isolated in your home so it’s very important to get out and meet people”

One newer area for Age UK which has been proving particularly effective concerns digital champions – older people willing to share their skills with others who may not be online but would like to learn. “Even if people have very basic skills, their willingness to spend some time with a person with none, helping them make a start with digital skills, is really very useful,” said Kate.

The National Trust has around 62,000 volunteers across the country with half aged over 65. As Mark Crosby, head of volunteering there, explains: “We just couldn’t function without them.

WHETHER we are aware of it or not many local services that underpin daily life in the country’s communities keep going thanks to volunteers.

DIGGING FOR FUN: Volunteer Elizabeth Black gets to work in the Apprentice House garden at the Quarry Bank Mill and Styal estate in Cheshire (Pic: NTPL/Andrew Butler)


“I love the variety of the job and meeting so many different people. I also get a huge amount of satisfaction from volunteering and would thoroughly recommend it if you’ve got some time to spare.”

“They bring a vast array of skills, talents and enthusiasm to the organisation and do a variety of different tasks. These days, we find our volunteers are more flexible and focused than ever.”

This voluntary work ranges from the traditional guides at historic properties to gardening, conservation, research, education and involvement as trustees. “They run gardens as rangers and project manage various things as leaders of a team,” adds Mark. “Older volunteers regularly work alongside younger ones.

“We’re also particularly keen to involve our older volunteers in a variety of activities, including getting closer to nature with country projects which offer health, friendship and a sense of value.”

Getting involved in volunteering can certainly enrich this part of our lives, perhaps make it golden. Psychotherapist Josephine Cropper believes that retirement offers special volunteering opportunities. “It might be that an area of interest that you didn’t follow when employed you are now able to follow in retirement,” she says.

“Often, people have gained skills in many different areas of life. These skills may either have been hobbies during a busy working life, or a continuation of skills gained from work. These can now be drawn together, not only to enhance the voluntary role but also to maintain self-esteem. We all need to feel valued and appreciated.”

Josephine stresses the importance of how new friendships can also bring new outlooks on life and offer opportunities for new conversations. “Although many of us may have dreamed of winning the lottery and doing nothing for the rest of our lives but sitting in the sun with a cocktail, in fact, work gives structure to our lives.

“This is still much-needed for our general wellbeing. The benefits of keeping active

mentally and physically are just as important at this time of life as any other. The structure voluntary work can bring can keep isolation and depression – sometimes an issue in retirement – at bay.”

Certainly, volunteering brings its individual pleasures, as 69 year-old Peter Herriman well knows. He has been volunteering at a National Trust historic property for 15 years. “I’m in three days a week and work as a volunteer room guide, education guide and Victorian costumed guide,” he said.

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES• Healthandsocialcare– Age UK, www.ageuk.org.uk tel 0800 169 8787, The British Red Cross, www.redcross.org.uk tel 020 7201 5164 • Animalwelfare–PDSA, www.pdsa.org.uk tel 0800 854 194 email [email protected] RSPB, www.rspb.org.uk, tel 01767 680551 • ArtsandHeritage–TheNationalTrust, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/volunteering tel 01793 817632, email volunteers@ nationaltrust.org.uk , The Voluntary Arts Network, www.voluntaryarts.org tel 02920 395395, email [email protected] • Environmentandconservation–BTCV, www.btcv.org tel 01302 388883, email [email protected], Friends of the Earth, www.foe.co.uk tel 020 7490 1555

Would you like to ...

Keep in touch with friendsand family by email?Do your supermarket shop, pay bills or book a holiday on line?Use the internet to check bus timetablesor research your family tree?

These are a few of the things YOU could be doing on a computer.

We tailor sessions to your needs and we understand that using a computer for the first time can be rather daunting. Our Magic Mouse computer sessions offer friendly one-to-one tuition for the over 50s by experienced volunteers who are keen to pass on their computer knowledge to you.

Telephone 01452 422660 for more information about Magic Mouse sessions at our Gloucester city centre offices or in your home.

Magic Mouse



Andrew Dilnot’s report takes the view that the existing funding system for long term care is confusing, unfair, and unsustainable. His proposals for change would cost an initial £1.7bn a year, but he claims this is a price well worth paying.

At present, anyone with savings and assets of more than £23,250 has no help from the state for care costs. The Dilnot report recommends that this limit should rise to £100,000. No individual should have to pay more that £35,000 towards their care costs, regardless of savings, although they would still be liable for costs of accommodation and food in a care home, but this would be capped at £10,000 a year. If these proposals were implemented, no individual would have to spend more than 30% of their assets on care.

Health Secretary Andrew Lansley has described this report as an “immensely valuable contribution” but the government would need to consider this against other funding priorities. Ministers considered the plans ambitious and costly, but were impressed with proposals for a simplified means testing system, better national standards, and the cap, which could enable a viable private insurance market to work. Government

response will be published next spring, and proposals for the reform of adult social care will be published in a white paper.

So we wait, and hope, that government acts promptly on this report. Twenty three leading charity organisations issued a joint statement, in which they urged that the government “sets out a clear timetable for change and does so quickly.”

At present, we cannot insure against future care costs, for the simple reason that we have no idea how much we may need. Once the cap on costs is implemented, insurance companies can become involved, or savings can be considered, so that the worry over where money will come from for long term care can be alleviated.

In the meantime, the rules for long term care are complex and confusing. Various factors, such as restrictions on mobility, behaviour changes brought on by the illness, and speed of deterioration, all count in the assessment process, and a patient may not automatically qualify for NHS funding. Over the past ten years there have been many cases where people have been forced to sell their homes to pay healthcare fees, and in some cases, later discovered they were entitled to state support. At present, levels of care and criteria vary from borough to borough and Age UK says that councils are rationing services. The outlook for the elderly looks bleak. We’ve all been appalled over cases where vulnerable older people have been neglected and mistreated, and hopefully, the Dilnot report will help to ensure that this can never happen again However, this will take time. In the meantime, how can elderly people, and their families, ensure that they’re given dedicated care and kindness in their most vulnerable years.

1. It is essential that the correct level of funding is established. Relatives of the elderly should make sure that they are aware of the rules, and that these are correctly interpreted when funding for care is established.

2. Funding can be provided through the Direct Payment Scheme, allowing the individual to make his/her own arrangements for care. Use this tailored to your own requirements. In order to qualify for this, the amount of care you need is assessed, and for more information on this you can obtain a leaflet: Guide to Direct Payments From Local Council, free from the Department of Health. Tel: 0207 972 2000. A fact sheet has also been produced – Paying for Care and Support at Home by Age UK.

3. Be realistic. The number of people over 85 has risen by two thirds since 2004, but local authority budgets for social care are being cut. It is becoming more and more apparent that help in an individual’s later years is, in part, down to their own efforts in preparation and funding. Good sources for information on this is Age UK.

The Dilnot Report - The Most Ambitious Report into Long Term Care since 1999

A spell in hospital can leave you feeling anxious and sometimes quite vulnerable. The Home from Hospital Service provides re-assurance and practical support to help get you back on your feet for up to 4 weeks following discharge from hospital.

If you are over 50 years old and have been discharged from a Gloucestershire Hospital and need support please telephone 01452 420906.

Home from Hospital



4. Check out private care agencies. If you need help in the home, but are still mobile, this is the perfect stage in your life to establish a relationship with a care agency. Using your Direct Funding, you can assess if this particular agency is efficient, caring and responsible. You can also assess the capability of the agency to provide more long term care, should that become necessary. A reputable Care Agency will have your best interests at heart. You can build up your trust in your Carers, and relax.

Gillian Manning, director of nationwide home care provider Bluebird Care (North Gloucestershire) welcomes the Dilnot Report ‘The current social care system is widely regarded as inadequate, unfair and unsustainable. Where they have failed in the past, politicians from all parties must now seize the best opportunity in a generation to

You’ve worked hard all your life, and need to be sure that your later life will be happy and free from worry. A little forward planning now, can help to ensure that this is the way it will be.

ensure that people can access the care and support they need in later life.‘

John Chambers, Managing Director of Bluebird Care (North Gloucestershire) agrees ‘With the number of over 85s set to double over the next 20 years, the question is not whether we can afford the Dilnot proposals but how can we afford not to.’

With high quality care providers such as Bluebird Care supporting and embracing the recommendations of the Dilnot Report, then there is perhaps cause for optimism as we work towards the elimination of the catastrophic care costs faced by some people by capping the maximum amount individuals contribute over their lifetime, beyond which the state will meet all future funding.

www.bluebirdcare.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

Call our professional team on 01452 414952

C A R E

Give an old athletethe will to live.

There’s a hopeful, trusting look in the eyes ofmost retired greyhounds. They’re hoping for acomfortable retirement home, and they trust us toprovide it for them!How can you help? With the best will in the world,

you may not be able to either adopt or sponsor agreyhound right now.

But a legacy could be the answer; remember the

RGT in your Will and you’ll be sure of a place indoggy heaven!

For more information on how to leave a legacyto The Retired Greyhound Trust, simply fill in thecoupon or phone us on:

0844 826 8424You’ll be doing us all a big favour.

Retired Greyhound Trust2nd Floor, Park House,1-4 Park Terrace, Worcester ParkSurrey KT4 7JZwww.retiredgreyhounds.co.ukemail:[email protected]

I’d like more information on leaving a legacy to RGT.

I enclose a donation £

Name:

Address:

Postcode:

Tel: RT/June/2011

Charity no. 269668

�

GT936_Retirement_Mag_2011_Layout 1 22/06/2011 17:03 Page 1

cheltenham issue 18

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