R E T I R E M E N TThe magazine for pre and post retirement www.retirement-today.co.uk July/August £2.90

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Plus: Don’t act your age – Book the bungee jump

The perfect match – People and pets

Keep borders looking good – Top jobs for August

Discover Oxford – England’s iconic city

Celebrity chef Michael Caines MBE

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4 Relax and Enjoy Life – Book the Bungee JumpEven an hour’s session at the gym, or a jog around the duck pond in the park will give you a bit of a high, but if you really want to inject some excitement read what else there is to be had.

7 Any How AnywhereMany retirees come to appreciate that as their lives change so do their accommodation needs. Joseph O’ Neill looks at some of the various options available.

10 Understanding DiabetesDiabetes is a chronic disease that affects around 2.5 million people in the UK. Jenny Hirst from Insulin Dependent Diabetes Trust highlights the reasons why blood glucose levels need to be controlled, the treatment and how to live with the disease

13 Balancing your diet with DiabetesBalancing your diet when you have been diagnosed with diabetes needn’t put an end to enjoying flavoursome food. These recipes are accompanied by clear at-a glance nutritional information, making it easier for you to manage your condition and expand your culinary horizons.

14 UpdateLook no further for property overseas; Grandparents to the rescue as young families seek out summer support; Over fifties who never felt fitter; Happy with your beach body?

19 The Perfect MatchThe demand for mature people with the time and the temperament required for looking after an older pet is increasing. Joseph O’Neill writes about how a new pet can transform your life, bring great joy and even give a new sense of purpose..

20 Animals in need of homesMeet some of the animals currently in need of new homes.

22 August – Top jobs this monthMust do jobs for your garden in August. From keeping your borders looking good, tending the vegetable patch, cleaning the pond, and much more.

26 Michael Caines’s Secret RecipesCelebrity chef from the Abode group of luxury hotels, Michael Caines MBE, shares with readers two fabulous recipes.

29 About Britain Read about events happening up and down the country.

30 Short Break Destinations – Discover OxfordRead about one of England’s most famous and iconic cities, picture perfect Oxford. Ideal for a short break destination

38 Look out they’re after youGovernment figures prove that we are a generous lot: in 2009-10 people in the United Kingdom donated to charity a staggering £10.6 billion. The problem is that while we’re good at giving, we’re less good at doing. Joseph O’Neill looks at different ways in which you can help charities. 41 Charity NewsRead what’s happening within the world of charity.

42 Grey Hairs – Quiz TimeRegular Pension Columnist Robert Grey sets a general knowledge quiz relating to pensions.

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Book the Bungee Jump

and Enjoy Life

An extract from Relax and enjoy life by Elisabeth Wilson, published by Infinite IdeasISBN 978-1-906821-08-1www.infideas.com

AbIIIIww

Here’s an idea for you... Too nervous for daredevil

sports? Book a lesson in a

controlled environment, with

an instructor watching your

every move, lots of first-class

equipment, and a handy

defibrillator just in case you

panic. I’m not sure there’s

a tame version of a bungee

jump, but what about learning

to ski on a dry ski slope,

or practising scuba diving in the local pool?

There’s a growing trend for physically challenging sports. Well, why not? Let’s see what gets your adrenaline pumping.

Even an hour’s session at the gym, or a jog around the duck pond in the park will give you a bit of a high, but if you really want to inject some excitement there’s a

lot more to be had. You could well be in better physical shape than you were in your twenties, but even if you’re creaking at the seams a little there’s no reason why you can’t decide to push the boundaries. One of the best ways of keeping young, having fun and feeling that life’s worth living is to do something that gets those hormones racing around your body.

Now, what gives me a kick is probably very different from what gets you excited, so there’s not much point in my sitting here telling you to climb up a waterfall if that’s your idea of a boring day out, but I can give you some idea of how to find the activity that’ll give you a buzz.

Pardon me for starting on a down note, but I think it’s best to rule out the things that really give you the willies. If you throw up at the mere thought of standing on a cliff top, there’s not much point in booking yourself a climbing holiday – at least until you’ve had some therapy to deal with your fear of heights. Terrified of drowning? Forget about deep sea diving or white water rafting (but you might want to consider swimming lessons).

At the other extreme, there’s no real excitement in going for things you know you love because you’ve done them before. If you’ve climbed three mountains, well, yes, you’ll probably still get a thrill out of climbing your fourth, but it’s probably not the same thrill you get from tackling something entirely new is it? If you own a yacht and have spent every holiday for the past ten years sailing the Med, you probably still get a lot of pleasure from it, but the adrenalin won’t be anywhere near the level it was on that first trip.

Choose what suits you best, whether it’s one of those stomach-emptying rides at the theme park, a drive around the ring road at rush hour, or a plunge into the waters of Oz. It’s easy to find scary sports. You can probably list a dozen without giving it too much thought (and you can try checking the Dangerless Aerial Sports Club website if you’re stuck) but how do you draw the balance between terror and ennui? What would give you a thrill without doing you any physical or psychological harm? Work down this quick checklist:

Oh, by the way, it’s important that I tell you this: get your doctor’s OK before you seize this idea. Get yourself insured if necessary. Don’t take risks if you’re not prepared to take responsibility for them.

Don’t act your age

Hey. This is going to be great. It’ll be the first time since you were a child that you’ll have the chance to have fun without feeling guilty. Can you even remember what fun is? Remind yourself of the things that make you laugh.

For most of us, the trouble with being a grown-up is that we’ve got ourselves trapped in the treadmill of responsibility and we’ve kept fun firmly in its place for years. If, like me, you have offspring you’ll have had some fun when your kids were small (and that was pretty well balanced, what with the nappies and the chauffeuring duties). If we’re lucky we’ve had the odd weekend away, an occasional night out, an annual holiday, even the dreaded office Christmas party. But these things have often been squished into a hectic diary and we’ve turned up grouchy, begrudging the time and effort we’ve had to make, when we could have been at home zonked out in front of the telly. We don’t, generally, get real fun, and it’s so sad that we think that’s how it should be.

I know this is true for me, because when I see a grown-up having real fun I think to myself ‘Stupid idiot. He needs to grow up.’ And, yes, I know that sounds like blatant sexism, but it usually is a man. For years I’ve made jokes about some men not growing up, and now I find the joke’s on me. They’ve got it right all along.

What’s the secret to fun? I can hardly remember. What were the real fun times? For me, climbing Dunns River Falls was fun; getting lost in the music at rock concerts was fun; punting on the Cam on a hot summer’s day was fun; trying to play tennis last year (after a forty-year

break) was fun, if a trifle embarrassing.

What were the fun times for you? When you’ve remembered them, ask yourself what was it that made them fun? How did you feel? The

common denominator for me is that these things were all different from the things I normally do – and sometimes even a bit scary. (Cynics amongst you, stop laughing. Punting on the Cam is a seriously dangerous activity unless, like me, you’re lucky enough to have an expert handling the pole rather than some idiot undergraduate who wants to show off.)

Your idea of fun is bound to be quite different from mine. You may have had fun trudging through the mud and facing the portaloos at pop festivals; you might get your thrills from racing round a Caribbean bay on an old tyre, pulled by a motor boat (I’m told it’s like high-speed colonic irrigation). Train spotting or chess might be the activities that got your adrenalin going over the years. But the common denominator must, surely,

be laughter? (Which, equally surely, must rule out train spotting?) If we’re not laughing – or at least smiling – we’re not really having fun are we? Nor are we experiencing the massive physiological benefits of laughter, which floods our bodies with happy hormones, relieves stress and is a thoroughly healthy activity.

Now, how do we recapture that feeling without necessarily having to repeat the experience? Since my kicks come from trying something new, my plan is to find some activities that are different – things I’d never even thought of doing before. Hmm, learn to tango perhaps? What does it for you? Whatever it is, commit to it by building it into your life so you have lots to look forward to over the next few months. Booking lessons, arranging dates with friends and paying in advance are all good ways of making sure you won’t chicken out in favour of the sofa ■

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dffmabspoyth

Here’s an idea for you...

Today, and every day from now one, set aside a small period of time – anything from ten minutes to an hour – and do something you enjoy. It could be serious fun (roller-blading down the High Street?) or it could be something really small. It doesn’t matter what it is – go window shopping; cuddle the cat; kick leaves – just try for something different every day and, when you do it, do it one hundred percent.

Defining idea...

‘You may be disappointed if you fail, but you are doomed if you don’t try.’ – BEVERLY SILLS, singer

Defining idea...

‘I refuse to admit I’m more than fifty-two, even if that does

make my sons illegitimate.’ – LADY ASTOR

...having the best of both worlds. Independent living as well as freedom from maintenance worries.

www.housing21.co.uk 0345 606 6363

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Mrs Geraldine Marshall’s stylish appearance and active lifestyle belie her 84 years. Moving

to Mitchison Court is the beginning of a new, exciting stage in her life.

“What I have in Mitchison Court is unique,” says Margaret. “I can continue to enjoy my busy social life and by moving in now I know that if I need care in the future, it’s all on hand without having to move again. What’s more this property offers me the space I need and is designed with older buyers in mind, with all facilities, such as the day centre, on my doorstep.”

Like Geraldine, many retirees come to appreciate that as their lives change so do their accommodation needs. In opting for Notting Hill Home Ownership, Geraldine can continue to enjoy her retirement without fear of whatever the future may bring.

As you get older the home in which you have spent most of your life requires maintenance and generates a great deal of work and seemingly endless bills. As the difficulties and affordability of maintaining the structure and its surroundings grow, many people want someone else to take on the responsibility.

Others, however, see their home as an asset with the potential to transform their lives – a means of supplementing

their pension and leaving more lee-way for everyday living, treating children and grandchildren and holidays. Data from estate agents shows that downsizing – selling your home and buying or renting a cheaper one – is an increasingly popular way of doing this. Although it involves moving home, it can be one of the best ways to release equity, as you will not incur the debt involved in equity release.

Yet downsizing is not without its pitfalls. You need to do your sums as you may well be disappointed with the money you realise. House prices continue to fall and while estate agents report that properties sell on average within twelve weeks, they also say that that they sell for between 11% and 25% below the asking price. You must also factor in the costs of buying and selling: financial adviser, estate agent, solicitor, removal company and stamp duty (if the house you buy costs £125,000 or more).

If, however, after careful consideration, discussion with your family and advice from an independent financial adviser, you decide that this is the right for you, you should consider the full range of options.

Perhaps you want to go a step further and rent your new home, thereby accessing all your former home’s equity and improving the quality of your everyday life while no longer having to worry about house maintenance. If so, Girlings, which lets and manages 2,000 properties in over 500 retirement developments throughout England, Scotland and Wales and is a leader in its field, may well provide exactly what you want. Their properties are predominantly one bedroom apartments within purpose-built retirement developments with some two bedroom apartments, studios and a small number of bungalows and cottages also available.

Peter Girling is passionate about meeting the housing needs of the over 60s and ensuring that they have the security they need. “That’s why we are unique in offering assured tenancies which include a cap on rent increases and give tenants security and peace of mind for life.” Service charges and maintenance are included in the rent.

The beauty of this arrangement is that you can choose to live virtually anywhere. Recent research shows more

Any How, Anywhere

Peter Girling is passionate about meeting the housing needs of the over 60s and ensuring that they have the security they need

by Joseph O’Neill

Haw

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retired people are choosing to live near towns. “As most of our developments have guest suites,” Peter Girling explains, “it’s possible to holiday in places like the Lake District and Devon. If you spot a particular property that you fancy Girlings’ may even buy it under their Bespoke Purchases scheme and rent it to you. What’s more, after an initial 12 month contract with Girlings you have the flexibility to move to another area of the country. Whether you stay or move, with all Girlings homes you’ll have a house manager, secure door entry system, a 24 hour emergency care line, residents’ lounge, communal gardens and a laundry service, leaving you entirely free to do the things you enjoy.”

Notting Hill Home Ownership offer a different model which allows you to retain a major stake in your new home while you future-proof

of the property price while the rest is government funded. What you get – apart from a property worth a great deal more than you’ve paid – is a vast range of hotel style services such as cleaning, laundry, meals and hairdressing to help ease the pressures of everyday life. For residents with care needs, there are staff on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Notting Hill Home Ownership’s Mitchison Court development enables buyers to enjoy an active social life with easy access to the Benwell Centre which offers a range of social events and activities for people aged over 55 every weekday.

The Hawthorns Retirement Group has brought to Britain all the wisdom accumulated in running

outstanding resident services. “We provide for the needs of active people over 55,” Lesley Neate explains. “Residents’ housekeeping services, security and three freshly prepared meals each day are only part of the service. In addition the communal areas promote social interaction. Small pets are welcomed. All

accommodation provides residents with a safe environment in their own home with everything on their doorstep to ensure they have peace of mind while keeping their independence. This enabling them to enjoy the very best of retirement living,” Lesley says.

Whatever your preference – bungalow, maisonette, apartment – you simply pay a single all-inclusive monthly charge for a stylish private

dwelling offering a touch of luxury with the hotel-style services.

“Fully serviced individual retirement properties are something of a rarity and are much sought after”, says Lesley. “For retirees who are active and independent this lifestyle offers just the right amount of assistance to free up their time for all the things they enjoy most.”

All Hawthorns homes enjoy breath-taking settings in superb locations, close to main towns and places of interest. Landscaped gardens offer the chance for peaceful strolls, while private coaches take residents on scheduled shopping trips, days out and theatre visits.

If golf ’s your passion then Hawthorns’ Clevedon development an attractive Somerset seaside town with spectacular views, and its own nine-hole putting green, four acres of landscaped grounds and easy walks to the seashore, will certainly appeal. Or perhaps you would prefer Eastbourne, with its Victorian opulence or the historic market town of Braintree. Whatever your preference in terms of idyllic location, Hawthorns has what you want.

If it’s choice of location and affordability you want, then Housing 21 is hard to beat. “As one the UK’s largest non-profit care providers and a national leader in innovative and affordable housing, the company has half a century of experience. “We built over 1000 new homes in 2010-2011 offering opportunities to buy and rent,” Tony Darnell explains. “We also work at the cutting edge of dementia and preventative health services”.

In total Housing 21 manages over 18,000 sheltered, extra care apartments—all newly purpose built

across 240 local authority areas. Tony believes that Housing 21’s harmonious working relations with local authorities is the reason why it is able to tailor its provision to the specific needs of each locality and individual.

wealth of experience, including those working on the largest sheltered housing PFI in the country in Oldham and on the only housing association sector dementia centre of excellence. “This approach has shown significant improvements in the quality of life of people with dementia and of those around them,” Tony explains. “It proves that with the right care, support and interaction people can keep or regain life skills and stay independent for longer.”

If you are looking for services that enable you to live well wherever you choose, in quality housing which is both safe, maintained to the highest standards and in a supported environments, Housing 21 is well worth considering. “You can rest assured,” Tony promises, “that if your needs change, you will get all the help you require to maintain a good quality of life. In the meantime you’ll be able to live independently as part of a community while continuing to do the things you enjoy.”

Whatever your aspirations for retirement, whatever your needs and wherever you want to live, provision to match your unique situation is available. It’s never been easier to realise your dream of a fulfilling retirement ■

It proves that with the right care, support and interaction people can keep or regain life skills and stay independent for longer.

Mitchison Court, Nottinghill Housing

Earl Spencer Court, Housing 21

Mitchison Court, Nottinghill Housing

D iabetes is a chronic disease that affects around 2.5 million people in the UK. Around 85 to 90% have Type 2 diabetes with the remaining 10

to 15% having Type 1 diabetes of whom 20,000 are children under the age of 15 years.

Both forms of diabetes involve the hormone insulin which is normally produced by beta cells in the pancreas. Normally during food digestion the body breaks down the carbohydrates eaten into simple sugars, primarily glucose. The glucose is absorbed into the blood and transported around the body by the blood vessel system to provide the energy needed for all activities. As food is eaten, insulin is released into the blood stream and this allows glucose to enter the body’s muscle, fat and liver cells. However, in diabetes this system fails to work properly, the two types of diabetes are very different in cause but treatment for both has common factors – medication, diet and exercise.

Type 1 diabetes This type affects children and adults up to the age of about forty. The number of children diagnosed under the age of 5 is markedly increasing. Type 1 diabetes is caused by the body’s immune system attacking the insulin producing beta cells in the pancreas. The body no longer produces insulin and this causes blood glucose levels to rise. Treatment with insulin injections is always required for survival.

There is no cure for Type 1 diabetes and the cause has not been established. It is thought that there may be several causes with a genetic link in some people. Recent research shows that a common virus may trigger the body’s immune system to attack its own insulin-producing pancreatic cells.

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Understanding Diabetes

Co-Chair Insulin Dependent Diabetes Trust

▲

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Take part in our diabetes trials and experience a different level of service

Changing Diabetes® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk UK/DB/0310/0232 Date of Preparation: March 2010

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Do you have diabetes? By taking part in diabetes research with Novo Nordisk, a world leader in diabetes care, you could help us to develop medicines that may benefit you and others like you. You can be sure the research teams we work with will keep a very close eye on your diabetes. What’s more, you could get access to potential future treatments during the trial period as

well as learning more about your condition.

Call free now on 0800 011 4616 to find out if you are eligible to be involved in our clinical trials.

Together we can change the future of diabetes.

Stroke is the thirdbiggest killer andthe leading cause of severe adultdisability in the UK.

A lasting gift in your Will to The Stroke Association will help us lead the fight againstbrain attacks.

To find out more about leaving a legacy and for details of our Free Will Scheme please call us on 020 7566 1505 or email legacy@stroke.org.uk

www.stroke.org.ukStroke Helpline 0303 3033 100The Stroke Association is registered as a company limited byguarantee in England and Wales No. 61274. Registered charityNo. 211015 and registered charity in Scotland No. SC037789.

Type 2 diabetesThis type of diabetes is the most common form with around 2 million people having been diagnosed and it is thought that there is an equal number of people undiagnosed. It occurs mainly in people over the age of 40, although with the increasing rates of obesity, it is now affecting younger people and even children. There is a tendency for Type 2 diabetes to run in families but a sedentary lifestyle and being overweight or obese are also causes. There is often a misconception that ‘diabetes’ is only a lifestyle condition but this minimises the public perception of the seriousness of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

In Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas often still produces some insulin but either not enough or it cannot be used properly by the various organs in the body, so there can be too much insulin in the bloodstream.

The treatment of Type 2 diabetes may start with diet and exercise alone or with blood glucose lowering drugs and if these fail to reduce blood glucose levels sufficiently, then treatment with insulin is necessary. On average people with Type 2

after diagnosis. For a lot of people this can be a time

of upset, anxiety and confusion. There is also the added fear of injections but nowadays there are very convenient and easy to manage, disposable pen injection devices with very fine needles, so the mental picture of injections is often completely wrong! A doctor or nurse discusses the risks and benefits of insulin treatment, the latter usually includes more stable blood glucose levels and an improvement in general well-being. People should be provided with an education programme about how insulin works, dietary information on what to eat and drink, a blood glucose meter to check blood glucose levels and how to interpret the results as well as details of face to face or telephone support available that is available from health professionals.

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Three important factors in the treatment of Type 1 and Type 2

diabetes

Although Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are very different conditions, the treatment of both types of diabetes has three factors in common – medication [insulin or tablets], diet and exercise. All three are important, they all affect blood sugar levels and they all affect each other. So in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes there is an important relationship between medication [insulin or tablets], diet and exercise and to achieve good diabetic control we have to try to balance all three.

Why blood glucose levels need to be controlledIf blood glucose levels are too high then this can lead to long-term complications. Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are different diseases in cause, effect and treatment but the same long-term complications can arise in both types of the condition. The risk of complications is reduced by the treatment of diabetes and by lifestyle changes to reduce blood glucose levels. In the case of Type 2 diabetes, early diagnosis also helps to reduce the risk of complications developing. The complications affect:

The Eyes Diabetes can affect the blood vessels at the back of the eye [retinopathy] and this can lead to visual impairment or blindness. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in the working population.

The Heart and Vascular systemDiabetes can affect the heart and the vascular system mak-ing people more susceptible to heart disease and stroke. It can also cause blood clots in the vessels in the legs which may result in amputation. Amputations are 50-80 times higher in people with diabetes than the general popula-tion.

KidneysDiabetes can affect the kidneys resulting in damage or kidney failure [nephropathy].

NervesDiabetes may cause nerve damage [neuropathy]. The most common form of nerve damage is in the extremities lead-ing to pain or loss of sensation in the feet and ulceration of the legs. Again, this can lead to amputation.

Living with diabetesThe diagnosis of both Type 1 and Type diabetes can result in feelings of shock, denial, anger and loss. These feelings are normal for life-changing experiences and it takes time to get used to living with diabetes. Such feelings don’t necessarily just apply to the person with diabetes but can also apply to their spouses, partners and in the case of children, their parents and siblings. Help and support is available from health professionals and from charitable organisations such as the Insulin Dependent Diabetes Trust which supplies free information leaflets, quarterly Newsletters and a listening ear on the telephone.

The global increase in diabetesThe incidence of diabetes is rising in countries around the world and the UK is no exception. There is an increase in both types of diabetes but the rise in Type 2 diabetes has reached epidemic proportions and this is associated with weight increase, obesity and a more sedentary lifestyle.

Type 2 diabetes can remain undiagnosed for several years during which time the blood glucose levels are too high causing damage and some of the complications of diabetes. People with Type 2 diabetes are often diagnosed as a result of having complications rather than because they suspect they have Type 2 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented but Type 2 diabetes, especially in people who are overweight or obese, can be prevented or the progression slowed down by lifestyle changes including weight loss, control of blood pressure, cholesterol levels and

■

For further informationTel 01604 622837 e-mail enquiries@iddtinternational.org Website www.iddtinternational.org

Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes

Insulin or

tabletsDiet Exercise

New Potatoes and Smoked Mackerel with Avocado Horseradish Dressing

Smoked mackerel is a wonderfully nutritious standby, plus it’s plentiful in the UK. The addition of new potatoes (good G.I.) and avocado (all the right fats), make this recipe a veritable superfood – so much goodness and tastiness in one plate!

Serves 4

500g new potatoes

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 bay leaves, broken

4 garlic cloves, smashed

Juice and grated zest of 2 lemons

5cm-piece of fresh horseradish, grated, or 2 tablespoons from a jar

1 avocado, diced

4 tablespoons 0 per cent fat natural Greek yogurt

3 smoked peppered mackerel fillets, skin removed, flaked

Handful of rocket leaves

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/gas mark 6.

2 Put the potatoes in a bowl and toss with the olive oil, broken bay, garlic and half of the lemon juice and zest. Season with a little salt and a few grindings of pepper. Tip into a roasting tin and cook in the oven for about 40 minutes, tossing from time to time. When cooked, the potatoes will be tender, wrinkly and golden. Discard the bay leaves.

3 Combine the remaining lemon zest with the horseradish, avocado and yogurt. Mash with the back of a fork, retaining some texture. Gently fold in the mackerel flakes, leaving them as chunky as possible. If the mixture is very stiff, add a little of the remaining lemon juice. Season to taste.

4 Arrange the potatoes onto individual plates, top with the mackerel mix and scatter with rocket leaves, and serve.

Amount per portion

Energy 595 kcals, Protein 27g, Fat 45g, Saturated fat 9.7g, Carbohydrate 23g,

Total sugars 3.1g, Fibre (Englyst) 3.1g, Salt 2.84g, Sodium 1118mg

Slow-cooked Pork Chops with Lentils and Cider

Pork, sage and apple are a great partnership. Try to get an old British breed such as a Middle White or a Gloucester Old Spot if you can: old breeds, more flavour.

Serves 4

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 pork chops, about 175g each, rind and most of the fat removed

1 onion, chopped

1 carrot, sliced

2 crunchy eating apples, unpeeled and grated

2 sprigs of fresh sage

175g puy lentils

300ml good-quality dry cider

420ml chicken stock

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Splash of Worcestershire sauce

100g 0 per cent fat natural Greek yogurt

Freshly ground black pepper

1 Heat the oil in a large casserole dish, add the chops and brown them all over. Remove the meat from the dish and set aside, and discard any excess fat in the bottom of the pan. Add the onion, carrot, apple and sage and cook over a moderate heat for 8 minutes.

2 Add the lentils, stir to combine then add the cider and stock and bring to the boil. Return the chops to the dish, reduce the heat, cover and cook gently for 1 hour. Remove the chops, cover with foil and set aside to rest.

3 Increase the heat under the casserole dish and boil the sauce to reduce it. Meanwhile, whisk together the mustard, Worcestershire sauce and yogurt, and season with pepper. When the sauce has reduced by half, fold in the flavoured yogurt, then return the chops, turn off the heat and check the seasoning before serving.

Variation This works really well with whole pheasant; reduce the cooking time from 1 hour to 30 minutes.

Amount per portion

Energy 491 kcals, Protein 54.3g, Fat 14.2g, Saturated fat 4.1g, Carbohydrate 36.4g, Total sugars 14.1g, Fibre (Englyst) 6.1g, Salt 0.87g, Sodium 344mg

Balancing your diet when you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes needn’t put an end to enjoying flavoursome food. A healthy diabetic diet is all about eating a wide variety of foods, increasing the amount of vegetables and fibre, reducing protein and learning to recognise hidden sugars. Endorsed by Diabetes UK, these recipes are accompanied by clear at-a glance nutritional information, making it easier for you to manage your condition and at the same time expand your culinary horizons.

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Balancing your diet with Diabetes

Recipes taken from The Essential Diabetes Cookbook by Antony Worrall Thompson with Louise Blair (Kyle Cathie, £20) Photography by Jonathan Gregson

RETIREMENT today14

UPDATE

A surprising number of over fifties feel fitter and healthier than when they were in their early adulthood.

In a study of 1,500 over fifties, 17 per cent stated that when it comes to health and fitness, they feel better than they did in their twenties.

Over 70 per cent of ‘fit over fifties’ claim they now do more exercise and pay more attention to their diet, and more than half of them feel they look younger than their age.

Nearly a third said that working long hours or running round after children interfered with their health and fitness when younger. But with more time on their hands and less responsibility for a growing family, they now exercise more frequently than in their younger years.

Plus, at the same time, their average intake of foods such as ready meals or takeaways has reduced by half. Upda

te

Look no further for property overseasIf you are after an overseas destination that offers a little bit of everything, and all of this within easy reach, Malta is definitely the right place.

Malta has had a strong property market for many years, as the Maltese treat property as an investment. Moreover there are no annual property rates or taxes on the islands and inheritance tax has long been abolished.

Among the most popular areas with foreign nationals are the harbour and seafront areas such as Sliema, and the Northern part of the island such as St Paul’s Bay and Mellieha, mostly renowned for holiday homes. Farmhouses and character houses are also popular, particularly in Gozo. They are normally situated within a village, dating back to the times of the Knights of Malta, with lovely original features like arched ceilings, wooden beams, flagstones or patterned floors, among others.

Malta and Gozo also boast a good selection of luxury property developments that have been earmarked by the local authorities as Special Designated Areas (SDA), where there are absolutely no restrictions to acquisition for foreigners. Spread across the islands, these areas represent developments intended to provide apartments, and penthouses built with a common theme on an extensive piece of land, often enhanced by their location, amenities and finishes. These developments are in demand by both local and foreign nationals, and hence they are constantly appreciating in value, making them also ideal as a rental investment with rental returns averaging 5 per cent.

All in all, Malta and Gozo have much to offer to foreign nationals looking for some year round sunshine, friendly natives, an excellent social life and of course great food.

For further information www.franksalt.com.mt

With summer fast approaching, NHS Choices asked people if they were happy with their beach body, 86% of women and 50% of men said no. The survey also revealed that:

confident about their stomach,

thighs (25%),

To help get people ready for the summer and feel comfortable on the beach, NHS Choices is inviting the nation to Get Ready for Summer.

Anyone who wants to shape up for summer can get involved by choosing from one of four free health and fitness plans– losing weight, healthy eating, getting fit, or training to run 5k. Each action pack will allow people to get weekly emails with tips and advice. Participants can also visit the NHS Healthy Living Facebook page where they can share their personal health goals and join groups which provide ongoing motivation and tips from health and fitness experts.

Make this summer your best yet, to sign up for your action pack, visit www.nhs.uk/summer or text SUMMER to 64746 for more information.

OVER FIFTIES WHO NEVER FELT FITTER

GRANDPARENTS TO THE RESCUE AS YOUNG FAMILIES SEEK OUT SUMMER SUPPORT As the summer school holidays approach, many UK families will this year turn to grandparents for vital support in looking after their children, with one third of parents reliant on them to provide childcare each week.

According to new research¹ carried out by Post Office Financial Services, this support forms part of the huge contribution grandparents make to their families in unpaid help, valued at up to £5,000 a year.

Whether it be helping out with everyday activities such as babysitting, taking their grandchildren on trips out or DIY around the house, these simple and often overlooked tasks equate to an indirect contribution of up to £4,500 per year to the average family. A potential £500 is also given in direct financial assistance.

Former Blue Peter star and celebrity grandmother Janet Ellis said, “School’s almost out and many parents will start frantically organizing plans to keep their kids looked after and entertained. For many it will be the grandparents who provide vital childcare to save their families money”.¹Survey conducted for the Post Office by Populus of 1,000 adults with living parents and with children under the age of 16.

Why not try the new online fitness plan from NHS Choices

HAPPY WITH YOUR BEACH BODY?

RETIREMENT today 15

JOIN US TODAY FOR ONLY £6.00

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Founded in 1942 Registered Charity Number 292569

Protect against the pain of arthritis – naturallyArthritis can be a debilitating and frustrating condition. By adopting the three-part programme as set out by The Arthritic Association you could postpone the negative effects of arthritis.

The programme works in three key areas:

Physical therapy to identify and remedy possible spinal and posture problems

Many of our members have told us that the programme

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Summer’s a good time to focus on health and fitness – so why not try and shape-up your finances too? Money worries are often a significant cause of stress and we all know how bad that can be for your health.

It’s well worth the effort to get your finances fit. So Retirement Today asked the Financial Ombudsman Service – the free service with the power to sort out financial problems – for some handy tips to help you get your finances healthy this summer.

Six steps to getting financially fit

1. Make sure you’re up-to-date with exactly how much money’s coming in and going out each month. That’s the best way to stay on top of things.

2. Check your account to see if you’re still making regular payments – like standing orders or direct debits – that you no longer need. Cancel them with the bank and the business or service concerned.

set aside a small amount each month to help spread the cost.

4. Shop around. Whether you’re renewing your insurance or you want a better rate of interest on your savings, you could find a better deal by checking out what’s on offer elsewhere. Read the small print first though – to be sure the deal’s as good as it seems.

5. Look through your statements regularly. Be sure you recognise every transaction – and if you don’t, contact your bank straight away.

6. If possible, try to ensure you’ve always got a little spare cash to act as a financial ‘cushion’, just in case of unexpected costs.

Need help getting problems sorted?

Last year around a million people got in touch with the Financial Ombudsman Service. It can help with a wide range of financial problems, from mortgages to motor insurance and from overseas money transfers to mobile phone cover. So if you’ve a financial problem that you’ve not been able to sort out with the business involved, it’s worth seeing if the ombudsman can help ■

Ready to get active? Here are some tips on money matters to help you make the most of sport and health activities

Thinking of signing-up for something new - like exercise classes? Ask if there’s a free trial period before you commit yourself. Fancy a fun way to get fit, like dancing? See if you can visit a class first, to be sure you’ll like it. Don’t feel pressured to sign up on the spot. If you’re joining a leisure centre or signing up for classes, bear in mind you may not get a refund and there could be penalties if you decide to cancel.

If you’re really committed to getting in shape, you might be offered cheaper rates if you sign up to extra classes. That’s only a bargain if you make use of what’s on offer! Some insurance policies, like health insurance, offer free fitness classes or gym membership. If you take out health insurance, be sure to tell the insurer your full medical history – it’ll be important if you ever need to claim.

Health and fitness equipment can be pricey. Before you lighten your bank account – look online or in the papers for low-cost ways to get fit. And see what facilities your local council provides for free or at reduced cost. If you decide to buy – and you’re paying by credit – make sure you know the total cost, including interest.

You can contact the ombudsman service on 0300 123 9 123 or www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk

Getting your finances

into shape

RETIREMENT today 17

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RETIREMENT today18

Wythall Animal Sanctuary was founded in 1968 to save and fi nd homes for as many unwanted pets as possible and rescuewildlife. Many thousands of animals have been found homessince then, who may otherwise have been destroyed. We have a non-destruction policy and are often the last hope for theseanimals. As our name suggests we give them Sanctuary.

It costs nearly £5,000 a week to keep the Sanctuary running,and to make continuous improvements, we rely entirely ondonations, fundraising and bequeaths to continue our work andwe also rely heavily on volunteers to help.

You can help by sponsoring one of our animals, becoming a member or offering one of our animals its forever home.

www.wythallanimalsanctuary.org.uk

T: 01564 823288 E: info@wythallanimalsanctuary.org.ukMiddle Lane, Headley Heath, B’ham B38 0DURegistered Charity Number 1137681

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER : 270419

Established over 35 years in the South East for the rescue and re-homing of unwanted and abandoned animals, including wildlife rescue and rehabilitation

We always have older cats and dogs at the Rescue Centre looking for special Retirement Homes!

Animal Rescue CentreStonehurst Lane, Hadlow Down, Uckfield

East Sussex TN22 4ED

Tel: 01825 830444 Fax: 01825 830887Wildlife Emergency Only - Tel: 01825 830735

www.kitwilsontrust.org.uk

our work continues through legacies and donations – we receive no government funding

The Kit Wilson TrustFor Animal Welfare

BillyFound by walkers. Billy was stuck in a bog on Dartmoor. Walkers pulled him out – no

mare or herd to be seen. Foal followed the walkers to their checkpoint and SWEP were

informed and took him in.

MollyMolly was found by walkers on Dartmoor, nearly drowned in a stream. She was pulled out, near death and brought to SWEP. Nursed back to life.

You can ensure their future is safe in SWEP’s care2 Tor Royal Bungalows, Princetown, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6SL

Tel/Fax: 01822 890668 - email: mail@swep.org.ukwebsite: www.swep.org.uk

Specialising in helping and rescuing wild moorland ponies on Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor

Ponies that are in an emaciated condition, mares having trouble giving birth and injured ponies hit by cars

All ponies receive veterinary treatment

Please help SWEP continuehelping ponies like Molly

and Billy by makinga donation and Gift Aid

or leaving SWEP a legacy

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Without taking her eyes from the newspaper, Mary dangles her free hand over the side of the armchair and strokes Thomas’s luxurious coat. The black and white narrows his eyes in pleasure and offers his head. As if by

telepathy Mary cups her hand and smoothes the fur back from his eyes. His whiskers quiver with delight. It’s as if they were made for each other.

Colette Marshall of The Kit Wilson Trust knows that Mary’s experience is common. “We rehome animals – which would otherwise be destroyed – within a

base at Hadlow Down, near Uckfield, East Sussex

and the feedback we get from those involved is one of the most gratifying aspects of our work. So many people write to tell us how their new pet has transformed their life, brought them great joy and even given them a new sense of purpose.”

“Just like their owners, older pets sometimes require a retirement home,” Colette explains. “Perhaps their former owners have died or moved into retirement accommodation which is unsuitable for a much-loved pet. Many people are working longer hours or are no longer able to care for a pet because of family breakup. Other animals unfortunately have simply been abandoned.”

Colette believes that mature people are ideally equipped to care for older animals which may have a short life expectancy, such as a lively ten-year-old Jack Russell currently in need of a home. “I fully appreciate that people may be reluctant to become attached to a pet that might not live long, but

we know from our experience that the upset of losing a loved companion is out-weighed by the joy of giving a loving home to an animal in its declining years. The rewards are immense.”

“What’s more, the demand for mature people with the time and the temperament required for looking after an older pet is increasing. “One consequence of the recession is that many people are now working

longer or less regular hours which makes it impossible for them to care properly for a pet,” Colette explains. “The need for those who no longer work full time to step into the breach is therefore greater than ever.” You can see a cross section of the pets available for rehoming on the Trust’s website,

The Perfect Matchby Joseph O’Neill

Just like their

owners, older pets

sometimes require a

retirement home,‘Kit Wilson Trust – Jeffa, 5 year old deaf male cat.

▲

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SALLYSpaniel cross, liver and white, 8 years.House trained, a little shy at first but lovely gentle girl.Tel. 01564 823288 www.wythallanimalsanctuary.org.uk

RUBYTortoiseshell cat, 9 years old, female.Looking for a new home either with her sister Pinky or on her own. Enjoys fuss and being picked up. Would live happily in family home, with children.Berkshire –Tel.: 01488 638584www.nawt.org.uk

ZIGGY 9 month old short haired tabby/white male. Was quite shy and timid at first, but is growing in confidence all the time. Loves to have his tummy and behind his ears tickled!Please Tel: 01825 830444 and register your details.www.kitwilsontrust.org.uk

OZZY Labrador cross, black and white, 12 months.Lively and friendly big puppy, loves fuss, came to us as his owners split up.Tel. 01564 823288 www.wythallanimalsanctuary.org.uk

ALGerman Shepherd Cross, 6yrs old, male.Friendly, sweet boy who loves human company. Needs an owner with plenty of time and commitment. Not keen on cats and would benefit from continued socialisation around other dogs.Cornwall – Phone: 01736 756 005www.nawt.org.uk

TESSA Dog, Collie, female, 10 years old.Still very active! Is looking to spend her days in the company of a special person who understands the needs of a Collie! Please Tel: 01825 830444 and register your details.www.kitwilsontrust.org.uk

OLIVER Domestic short haired, black and white cat, 4 1/2 years.Came in as a stray, was being fed by an elderly lady, very shy so has been at the sanctuary since January 2008.Tel. 01564 823288 www.wythallanimalsanctuary.org.uk

PETRIDomestic, short haired cat, 3 years, female.Needs to be an indoor house cat.Has FIV but very healthy and needs no medication. Needs to live alone as disease could be passed to another cat, but could live with another FIV cat. Would prefer a home with older children so she is not accidentally let out.Someset – Phone: 01458 252 656www.nawt.org.uk

CODY Dog, male 2 year old Lurcher. Quiet and sensitive and loves a comfy duvet. While he is waiting for someone to appreciate how much love he has to give and offer him a home, perhaps you would like to sponsor him?Please Tel: 01825 830444 and register your details.www.kitwilsontrust.org.uk

for a needy animal and thereby reap a number of priceless benefits: companionship, perhaps the opportunity to take regular exercise and meet other people, a structured day and the comfort of having a friendly presence in their home.”

Recent scientific research confirms Alison’s views on the advantages of keeping a pet: it reduces stress and anxiety while improving well being and helping in the development of a fulfilling sense of purpose.

“We work hard with rehomers to get the perfect fit between pet and owner,” Alison explains. “Home visits and our helpline are there as resources for owners. On rare occasions rehomers find they have made a mistake. This seldom happens

with mature people as they generally know what is involved in providing a loving home but when it does we will always take the pet back.”

Based at Kings Norton, Birmingham, Wythall Animal Sanctuary is dedicated to saving and finding homes for as pets which would otherwise be destroyed. “Over

years we have rehomed countless thousands of animals, providing them with loving homes while enriching the lives of their owners,” Alison explains.

But it hasn’t been easy. The Sanctuary, which is completely dependent on public donations, needs £4,000 a week simply to continue its work. The Sanctuary takes in unwanted and endangered animals. Those which are in poor health are cared for at the Sanctuary. But rehoming is the aspiration for every healthy animal and the Sanctuary’s scheme is second to none for its thoroughness and success.

Those who wish to help and live within 15 miles of the Sanctuary first choose a cat, dog or other animal – anything from Fluffy the guinea pig to Alfie, a Welsh Pony – from the Sanctuary site, where you will find a picture and details of available animals.

The Sanctuary is keen to ensure that rehomers are not only caring but also informed owners. It stresses the importance of understanding the

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including Tamba, a female Boxer of about 10 years old, who desperately misses the companionship of being part of family.

Colette knows that the support and guidance the Trust gives to all of its rehomers is a major reason for its success in placing pets with the right owners.

“If it’s not possible for you to rehome a pet,” Colette adds, “our sponsorship scheme is the next best thing. We have a number of animals in our Centre, such as horses and goats, which are difficult to place, to a number of rabbits, ferrets, cats, and birds which will spend the remainder of their days being cared for at the Centre’. They are all looking for sponsors who can visit by arrangement.”

“Mature people provide excellent carers for pets that need to be rehomed,” explains Alison Moore of the Wythall Animal Sanctuary, echoing the opinion of so many animal charity workers. “They have such a wealth of accumulated wisdom and experience which enables them to provide an ideal home for animals which because of their age, for instance, may require quiet surroundings and a sedate life. They are resourceful, adaptable and patient and they have the time to care for their pet because they no longer have the commitment of full-time employment.”

After that glowing endorsement of the mature pet owner Alison is at pains to point out that the benefits flow both ways. “Many mature people may not have been able to have a pet because of work or family commitments which no longer apply. Retirement gives them the opportunity to provide a good home

needs of your pet before you take it home. The follow-up home visit is designed to help owners make proper provision for their new pet and ensure they know enough about pet care and the implications of the new Animal Welfare Legislation. If not, the home visitor is there to help get owners up to speed. The Sanctuary’s advice line is always available with advice on health and behavioural problems.

The National Animal Welfare Trust, a leading animal charity, rehomes about 1,200 cats and dogs every year. This is a central to the Trust’s work of rescuing and providing care and shelter for stray, neglected and unwanted animals of all kinds and then placing them in suitable homes. This only takes place after rigorous preparation.

“We are absolutely committed to finding the perfect match between pet and owner,” explains Joni Brace, External Support Officer with the National Animal Welfare Trust. “We use the highly trained professional behaviourist, Anna and Dayle of Canine Wizardry, to assess each of our animals and, if necessary, train away aggressive tendencies. This means we are able to ensure a perfect fit between pet and owner.”

Trindledown Farm, Berkshire, caters specifically for older pets. Joni believes that one of the reasons for the Trust’s success with these animals is the contribution of mature people. “They make ideal carers for pets which are sometimes difficult to home, particularly older animals. Pets, like their owners, are now living much longer.” The

Trust’s rehoming programme avoids rushed decisions and ensures that new owners are properly equipped to take on their chosen pet. This is a major reason why it is so successful in matching pets and owners. As Joni explains, “People with patience and concern often provide the help which is crucial to our work. They make ideal carers for pets which are sometimes difficult to home, particularly older animals.

“The demand for our services, Joni explains, is as great today as at any time during the forty years of our existence,” says Joni. To celebrate four decades of success each of the Trust’s four centres is hosting a range of fun activities,

events will raise the profile of the Trust and make more people aware of the full range of our activities and the ongoing need for people able to provide a good home for animals which may have been neglected or abandoned.”

Fashions in clothes have certainly changed since the National Animal Welfare Trust first found a loving home for an abandoned pet. But the benefits of being a pet owner remain constant ■

Mature people provide excellent carers for pets that need to be rehomed‘

National Animal Welfare Trust

Wythall Animal Sanctuary

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BORDERSMust-do jobsPrune wisteria Pruning is one of the keys to success to encourage wisteria to flower well. All of the long whippy growth that it has made this year should either be tied into the support to cover new areas or cut back to two or three buds from old wood. Some gardeners choose to cut back in two stages, but you can avoid freezing to death up a ladder in February by doing it in one go in August.

Deadhead flowers Keep your floral displays going by removing flowers as soon as they fade. This stops the plant diverting its energy into seed production and, instead, it concentrates all its efforts into making new blooms.

Still time to ... stake tall plants. Tie in tall or floppy plants to stop them looking untidy and snapping in the wind and rain.

DISEASE WATCH!Powdery mildewThis fungal disease is common in late summer, especially if it has been dry and hot. A white coating covers the leaves and other parts of the plant. Growth may be poor as a result but most plants recover. To reduce the risk of it happening again, mulch around plants to help trap moisture in the soil. Use an appropriate fungicide if necessary and keep plants well watered but avoid getting water on the leaves.

5 MINUTE JOBCollect seed Collect the seed of any plants you’d like to keep for next year. Cover the seedheads with paper bags and tap out the contents. Either sow straight away or store in the fridge and wait until next spring before you use them. Remember, there’s no point saving seeds from varieties with F1 in the name as their progeny is never the same as the parent.

Good to get doneWater containers By August, your container displays may be beginning to flag even if you added slow-release fertiliser at planting, so give them a liquid feed to perk them up again.

Prune ornamental trees August is a good month to prune ornamental trees such as flowering cherries and mountain ash, as there are fewer diseases around now to infect the wounds. Pruning them at this time will also allow them to heal fully before winter. When pruning, always use sharp tools to ensure the cuts are clean. If you’re removing an entire branch, make the cut good and close to the trunk, but without actually cutting into it. - First, remove any damaged or diseased branches, weak growth or unwanted stems growing from the tree base. - Then look for any stems and branches that cross or rub against each other, as these can be sites of infection. Remove the weakest.

- Finally, remove any branches that make the tree look lop-sided, or are going in the wrong direction.

Take cuttings of half-hardy plants For any half-hardy plants you’d like to keep for next year, take a few cuttings now. They’ll take up less space indoors over winter than lifting the original plant.

Deal with tough weeds Late summer is a good time to spray tough weeds with a weedkiller containing glyphosate as they are naturally drawing their energy back into their roots and so are more likely to take in a lethal dose. Be careful not to spray anything you want to keep.

Buy bulbs It seems mad to be thinking of spring already but by August, most garden centres will have their bulb displays in place. It’s a good idea to buy them sooner rather than later as you’ll have the best choice of varieties and the bulbs will be in great condition. Look for autumn crocus, colchicum, sternbergia, amaryllis and nerine. Most bulbs, except tulips, can be planted straight away, but if you haven’t got any space yet, store them in a dry, cool place, such as a shed. Make a note that you put them there as it’s all too easy for them to lie forgotten! Plant autumn-flowering bulbs such as colchicum as soon as possible.

AUGUST TOP JOBS THIS MONTH

An extract from Which? The Gardeners’s Year Made Easy.Photography: ‘Mark Winwood/ Which? Gardening’.

To buy The Gardener’s Year Made Easy for just £8.99 (RRP £10.99) including UK p&p, call 01903 828557 and quote RETIREGARD. Offer ends 31 August 2011.

IN THE GREENHOUSEMust-do jobsDamp down the greenhouse floor Keep the greenhouse cool on hot days by wetting the floor, which will help cool and humidify the air as it evaporates. It’s also good to open the door, vents and windows to encourage air circulation. This has the added benefit of reducing the risk of fungal diseases, which enjoy static air.

IN THE FRUIT GARDENMust-do jobsPrune summer fruiting raspberries, blackberries and hybrid berries Cut back all the canes that have fruited this year to ground level. This is to make space for the green canes that were produced this spring and will fruit next year. Tie in new growth to the support as this will produce next year’s crops.

DISEASE WATCH!Brown rot It begins as a soft, brown area on the skin of tree fruits such as apples and plums, and rapidly spreads, turning the whole fruit brown. Rings of white pustules also appear. The fruits may fall off the tree, but others will hang on and dry out. Gather any you find to reduce the risk of this fungal disease spreading.

BORDERSPrune wisteriaDeadhead flowersWater containersPrune ornamental treesTake cuttings of half-hardy plantsDeal with tough weedsBuy bulbsCollect seedLook out for powdery mildew

PEST WATCH!Cabbage white caterpillars The yellow and black caterpillars can swarm over plants from the brassica family, stripping their leaves horribly fast.

LAWNSMust-do jobsTake extra care during hot weather Lawns often turn yellow during dry spells and it’s tempting to water them. Unfortunately, to keep them green requires a lot of water, which may not be practical. Instead, let nature takes its course and leave your grass unwatered. Although lawns die back during drought, they rarely die completely and will soon turn green again when the rain returns. Here are some tips to help your lawn look its best during dry weather: - Allow your grass to grow longer by setting your mower blades higher. This will reduce the stress on your lawn. - Cut the lawn at least once a week as long grass is far harder to cut. - Leave the grass clippings on your lawn when you mow it as they will act as a mulch, helping to conserve moisture. - Remove any obvious weeds from your lawn as these compete for moisture.

PONDSGood to get doneClean the filter If you have a pump in your pond or water feature, midsummer is a good time to clean it. This will keep the pump working properly and should help prolong its life. Never wash the filter with tap water as it contains chlorine that can kill bacteria that’s vital to pond life. Clean it in a bucket of water taken from the pond itself or a rain barrel.

LAWNSAllow your grass to grow longerCut the lawn at least once a weekLeave grass clippings on the lawnRemove obvious weeds

PONDSClean the filter in a pond or water feature pump

5 MINUTE JOBLess-than-perfect fruit will often fall from the tree early. Rake it up or it will become a magnet for wasps.

ON THE VEG PATCHMust-do jobsSow outdoors - Dwarf French beans - Late runner beans - Spring cabbageQuick crops: beetroot, carrots, lettuce, salad leaves, oriental greens, spring onion, radish, turnip, spinach

Harvest- Last peas and broad beans- Dwarf, climbing and runner beans- Baby beets, baby carrots, radish, spring onion- Garlic and shallots- Second early potatoes- Courgettes- Calabrese- Salad- Spinach and chard

Good to get doneHarvest last of the peas and broad beans Keep picking them regularly until no more pods are produced. Cut the top growth for the compost heap, but leave the roots in the ground. The nitrogen fixing nodules on the roots will rot to benefit the following crop.

IN THE GREENHOUSEDamp down the greenhouse floor

IN THE FRUIT GARDENPrune summer-fruiting berriesKeep an eye open for brown rotRake up fruit that has fallen early

Lift garlic and shallots As soon as the tops start to die off, scoop the soil from around the bulbs to expose them to sunlight and help ripen them. Once the tops have dried, lift the bulbs and leave them on the soil to dry for storage. If wet weather is predicted, lay them on trays under cover or on greenhouse shelves to dry. Store the garlic and shallots bulbs on wooden trays or in net bags in a cool, dry place for winter use.

Uncover squash fruits Help squash to ripen in the sun by removing any leaves, which are shading them. Squash plants grow at a remarkable rate so check for new leaves regularly.

Sow green manure At this time of year, you are likely to be clearing areas of ground faster than you can fill them with late or over-winter crops. There’s nothing wrong with leaving bare soil, though you can make it work over winter by sowing a green manure crop, which has several advantages: nutrients left in the soil that would otherwise be flushed out by winter rain will be mopped up; the green manure will help suppress weeds; it will prevent a hard crust forming on the soil; and it will provide bulky plant material that can be dug in before the spring crops go in or added to the compost heap. Choose a hardy green manure, such as winter tares, clovers or phacelia, and sow when the soil is warm and moist. Broadcast the seed and rake it in. The following spring, chop it with a spade before it sets seed and dig it in, allowing it time to rot down before sowing spring crops.

ON THE VEG PATCHSow late beans, spring cabbage as well as quick cropsHarvest the last of the peas and broad beansKeep a beady eye open for cabbage white caterpillarsLift garlic and shallotsSow green manure

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YOUR GARDEN IN AUGUST

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COMPETITIONS

For a chance to win any of the prizes, send your name and address (quoting reference code) to:

Amra Media Solutions, The Old Lavender Mill,

46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, Bucks, HP22 5ES or email: info@amramedia.co.uk

DVD You Will Meet a Tall Dark StrangerA witty and inventive dramedy, which follows a pair of married couples through the trials and tribulations of their romantic relationships. Follow the intricate lives of these characters while they try to decipher which road to take in life. We have 3 copies of the DVD to give away. For a chance to win a copy send in your details quoting ref. TDSClosing date: 10 August 2011

Win a Rose

‘“The King’s Speech” rose is a unique Cultivar and one of only 20 of the breed created. It is a beautiful pale pink/peach in colour, which denotes gratitude, appreciation, admiration and empathy

We have one rose to giveaway to a lucky reader. For a chance to win, send in your details, quoting ref. KSR

Closing date: 18 July 2011

Oranges and Sunshine5 Dvds to be won This powerful and deeply-moving film depicts the real-life story of a woman’s courage to expose a tragic scandal that the British government kept a secret for decades; the mass deportation of children from the UK to Australia. We have 5 copies to giveaway. For a chance to win, send in your details quoting ref. OSClosing date 10 August 2011

ltivar f only

You will meet a TALL DARK STRANGER is out on DVD 11 July, courtesy of Warner Home Video

Oranges and Sunshine is out on DVD 25 July, courtesy of Icon Home Entertainment

Win a pair of tickets to see Emperor and Galilean at the National

The National Theatre stages the UK premiere of Ibsen’s magnificent farewell to epic drama. A company of 50 perform Ben Power’s exciting new version of this lost masterpiece, creating a cathedral of sound and ritual.Through vivid storytelling Emperor and Galilean sweeps across Greece and the Middle-East from AD 351 covering 12 crucial years in the history of civilisation, dramatising the actions of one man who could have changed everything forever.Retirement Today readers can also redeem 2 for 1 on top price tickets by phoning020 7452 3000 and quoting ‘Retirement Offer’, or booking online with promo code 3881.nationaltheatre.org.uk no booking fee South Bank, London SE1 9PX Winners’ tickets are valid for all performances until 10 August 2011. Subject to availability. Competition closes 20 July, winners will be notified by 22 July. Promoter reserves the right to substitute prize for that of an equal or greater value if necessary. For a chance to win send in your details, quoting ref EG

e stages the UK p i f Ib ’

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ABode is a growing group of exclusive luxury hotels and restaurants that include

city locations such as Exeter, Chester, Canterbury and Manchester. Each encompass both fine and casual dining concepts from top chef Michael Caines MBE and affordable luxury from entrepreneur Andrew Brownsword.

Andrew Brownsword joined forces with Michael Caines to create ABode Hotels, the two men were able to combine their unique and considerable skills and vision to bring to the fore a concept of modern hospitality that combines understated British style and modern comfort.

With the spotlight on the North West, ABode certainly has made an impact on the area by combining Michael Caines distinctive style of cuisine with luxurious four star accommodation in both Manchester & Chester.

ABode Manchester

ABode Manchester is ideally located in the very heart of the city, just minutes from bustling Piccadilly. The Grade II listed hotel retains the period character of a Victorian cotton merchant’s wholesale warehouse. The building, completed in 1898, was designed to impress, with its stylish and

decorative front and splendid walnut staircase with detailed tile and wrought iron work. There are 61 bedrooms, rated Comfortable, Desirable, Enviable and Fabulous. The five Fabulous suites located on the fifth floor are truly stunning. Trademark ABode features include handmade Vi-Spring beds; bathrooms with monsoon showers; luxury toiletries; personal DVD players and state-of-the-art LCD televisions.

The Michael Caines Restaurant at ABode Manchester has established itself as one of Manchester’s most exciting fine dining destinations. Just minutes from bustling Piccadilly, the Restaurant and Champagne Bar is located in an atmospheric lower level dining area that is stylish and discreet.

ABode Manchester’s Executive Chef is Mark Rossi. Mark knows Michael and his distinctive style of cuisine well, having worked previously under Michael’s direction at Gidleigh Park, and then as Executive Chef at the Michael Caines Restaurant at ABode Canterbury.

In Manchester, Mark is enjoying making use of the best regional produce from Lancashire, Cheshire and surrounding area. For a more casual dining experience the MC Café Bar & Grill located on the ground floor offers a chic, informal atmosphere for breakfast, light bites, lunch, afternoon tea and evening meals. The MC Café Bar & Grill has the added attraction of outside seating within stylish Piccadilly.

Why not come and experience our hospitality for yourself? Enjoy ABode Manchester now with a special one-night ‘City Tonic’ package which includes overnight accommodation in one of our Comfortable bedrooms, and a two-course dinner from our Divine Dining Menu with a bottle of wine to share in the MC Café Bar & Grill, followed by a full regional breakfast the following morning for only £44.95 per person.

ABode Chester The site of the former Cheshire Constabulary headquarters, located at the gateway to Chester, is the new home of the ABode Chester Hotel.

This strikingly modern property is the latest concept and vision of ABode hospitality. The 85 bedrooms are designed to ABode’s high standards and boast magnificent views of Chester and the Welsh hills. The jewel in ABode Chester’s crown are three Fabulous suites, spaciously fitted and designed to the highest levels of comfort and luxury, located on the 6th floor, each with a private balcony and views over the city, Chester race course or internal piazza.

The Michael Caines Restaurant is the spectacular centerpiece of the ABode Chester dining experience. Located on the 5th floor, with wonderful views of the surrounding countryside and the historic Chester race course, this is a special place to come to enjoy Michael Caines cuisine. The atmospheric dining room is perfect for those wishing discreet, professional service, while the outside terrace provides the best open-air dining option in the city.

In addition to the full à la carte and tasting menus, the Michael Caines Restaurant features Michael’s exciting grazing menus, small and beautifully presented dishes that can also be enjoyed in the stylish Champagne Bar. The ‘Amazing Graze’ lunch menu changes weekly providing outstanding value with the option of matched wines.

Stuart Collins is Michael’s talented Executive Chef. Stuart started his career at the Michael Caines Restaurant at ABode Exeter. He then moved to Gidleigh Park, learning his profession under Michael’s direction.

“Michael runs a very calm, well disciplined kitchen and working at Gidleigh Park hotel taught me to cook at the highest level,” says Stuart.

For casual dining the MC Café Bar & Grill located on the ground floor offers a range of coffees, light bites and cakes through to full A la Carte in the evening. The atmosphere is relaxed with outside heated seating within the piazza; a perfect chance to experience alfresco dining at its best.

Why not come and explore Chester for yourself with our two-night ‘Explore Chester heritage’ package which allows you to discover Chester whilst enjoying a luxury stay at ABode Chester. This special offer includes accommodation in one of our Desirable bedrooms, a three-course dinner in our award-winning Michael Caines Restaurant with a full regional breakfast each morning.

The following day, experience a relaxing River Cruise along the famous Dee. Prices from £159.50 per person for a two night package ■

About ABode

‘I am only interested in creating hotels in those locations where I would like to stay myself. ABode should be in the very heart of a city or town, the place where things are happening. Life is too short to be on the periphery.” Andrew Brownsword, owner of ABode Hotels

Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/ gas 6

First, make the shallot and bacon veloute. Place the bacon trimmings and the milk together in a saucepan and bring to the boil. Separately, sweat the shallots with butter and a pinch of salt and cook until soft and transparent. Then add the thyme and bay leaf and continue to sweat for a further 2 minutes. Finally add the fish stock, cream and the infused milk with the bacon trimming and bring to the boil and simmer for 20 minutes. After this time, remove the bacon trimmings, thyme and bay leaf and pour the liquid and shallots into a blender and blend until very smooth, then pass through fine sieve. Set aside until required.

Next, cook the peas in boiling salted water until soft, remove from the water using a holy spoon and refresh in iced water. Once cool, strain off the water and leave the peas to drain for a little while. Place 400gr into a food processor and blend to a puree then pass the puree through a sieve to remove the outer skins and place the puree into a sauce pan. Warm and mix in the butter then season with salt and pepper. Just before serving add the remaining peas.

Now cook the scallops. Season with salt and pepper on both sides, heat some olive oil in a non stick pan and place the scallops into the hot oil. Place into the pre-heated oven for 2 minutes and then flip over and continue to cook for a further 2 minutes, being careful not to over cook. Now remove from the oven and squeeze lemon juice over the fish.

Gently warm the veloute, season with salt and pepper and add a knob of butter then using a hand blender create a cappuccino effect. Place a tier of pea puree onto a plate and place the scallops onto the puree. Spoon the froth from the sauce around the fish, dress with some micro herbs and serve. Bon appetite!

Ingredients

8 large scallops

Chopped chives

Micro herbs

Olive oil

Lemon juice

Pea puree

500gr frozen peas

50gr butter

Salt & pepper

Zest the lemons and limes. Mix the zest with the curing salt and sprinkle over the salmon. Allow to cure for 40 minutes. Wash off the salt and zest using water. Gently steam the salmon for 1 ½ minutes both sides and cover in cling film. Allow to cool for 10 minutes and using cling film, roll in the chopped chervil.

Cut the avocado in half, remove the stone and scrape out the avocado flesh. Place into a blender and squeeze in the juice of 1 lime, add a pinch of salt, and blend till smooth.

Peel the ginger root. Thinly slice and gently cook in stock syrup for about 1 hour. Remove from the stock syrup and place into a pan of vegetable oil at 160ºc. Fry for 5 minutes until golden. Remove from oil and place on parchment paper, the ginger will crisp as it cools.

Fold the lobster reduction through the mayonnaise until smooth, adjust the flavour using the lemon juice and salt.

Add the celery, cucumber and lemon dice into a bowl, add vinaigrette and approx 50ml of the cooking liquor from the lemons. Season the mix with salt and pepper and finish with the chopped chervil.

Slice the salmon into 2cm pieces and remove the cling film. Pipe the lobster mayonnaise and avocado puree onto the plate. Finish the dish with the vinaigrette and crisp ginger.

Pan-fried scallops with pea puree and a shallot and smoked bacon veloute

Citrus cured salmon, lobster mayonnaise, avocado puree, sweet lemon, ginger crisp

Shallot and bacon veloute

250gr shallots, sliced

300gr fish stock

200gr smoked bacon trimmings

50gr cream

250gr milk

70gr butter

1 bay leaf

1 sprig of thyme (large)

Salt and pepper

Michael Caines’s secret recipes

Stuart Collins

Michael Caines

Ingredients (makes 4 portions)

200g salmon fillet, pin boned and skinned

2 Lemons

2 Limes

100g Curing salt

100g Chervil, finely chopped

50g Celery

50g Cucumber

50g Confit lemon

1 Avocado

100ml Olive oil vinaigrette

100g Mayonnaise

20g Lobster stock reduction

Micro herbs

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Michael Caines MBE, top chef from the ABode group of luxury hotels, and Stuart Collins his talented Executive Chef share with Retirement Today readers two fabulous recipes.For further information on ABode Hotels, see page 25.

ABode Chester, ABode Manchester and Michael Caines RestaurantsABode Chester - Grosvenor Road, Chester, CH1 2DJ

T: 01244 405817 E: reservationschester@abodehotels.co.ukABode Manchester - 107 Piccadilly, Manchester, M1 2DB

T: 0161 247 7744 E: reservationsmanchester@abodehotels.co.uk

www.michaelcaines.comwww.abodehotels.co.uk

£89.00*T

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MICHAEL CAINES VOTED THE UK’S NUMBER ONE RESTAURATEUR*

@abodechester @abodemanchester

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Summer Dates

28th Jul-3rd Sept

&

19th Sept-1st Oct

Tickets on Sale

Now !

Admission free10am – 5pm Monday to Friday. Closed weekends and public holidays. Entrance in Bartholomew Lane, London EC2R 8AH. Tel: 020 7601 5545 www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum

to visit the Bank’s Museum for a great day out! There are special events and more every day.

To find out what the Bank doesLearn about banknote designTry to lift a gold barAudio visual displaysMuseum shop

A golden opportunity

FREE PRESENTATIONS

FOR GROUPSBooking essential

020 7601 3833

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AboutBritain...

Edinburgh International Book Festival explore a changing world in words

13-29 August The Edinburgh International Book Festival comprises of 17 days of lively debate in Charlotte Square Gardens this August. With Guest Selectors, the return of the debut writers’ award chosen by readers together with prize-winning authors, politicians, journalists and poets and late night Unbound events, the festival promises a summer of rich discussion, entertainment and inspiration.

Entry to the Gardens is free and everyone is welcome! There is much to enjoy during a visit to the Book Festival, it’s not only about the events. The Festival’s home, the beautiful leafy Charlotte Square Gardens (at the west end of George Street, a minute away from Princes Street), is a wonderful space in which to sit, talk, think, play and be entertained. You can see a favourite author, join in a workshop or debate, enjoy a cuppa in the café, a beer or a wee dram in the Spiegeltent, or simply park yourself on the grass (with or without a book) and soak up the atmosphere.

For further information visit www.edbookfest.co.uk

There’s lots to see and do at the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, this summer! Every Wednesday in August their keepers will be giving some of the animals ice pops! Animal friendly ones with lots of yummy things hidden inside.

Wizard Animal Week – 22nd -31st July - To celebrate the launch of the final Harry Potter movie they will be giving away tickets to the film and Harry Potter goodie bags during the week. There will be Owl talks – could owls really carry letters and snake talks – do they really talk parseltongue? With lots of other animal talks, face painting and an animal trail.

A is for…? Walk around the Park in August and find the animal answers. There will be a fantastic prize every week for the first correct entry out the bag. Get the kids thinking and learn lots about the amazing animals in the Park (yes, they really do have an animal for each letter of the alphabet!)

Take a ride on the railway around the Park or climb into the tree house in the adventure playground. You’re never too old to visit, there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s the beautiful planting, or over 250 different species of animals, insects and birds. It’s wheelchair and pushchair friendly!

So bring a picnic and chill out with us!

For more information visit www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Summer show time with the National Trust Enjoy Shakespeare’s plays performed in the grounds of a country manor,let the tales of Roald Dahl bring a smile to your face in the grounds of a ruined castle, or join a spectacular open air music festival, listening to the sounds in the grounds of a beautiful estate.. Or perhaps you would prefer to join up with friends and family, load up the picnic and make it a night to remember at an outdoor theatre event.

Experience the best summer entertainment in some of the most enchanting National Trust locations.

For further information on events visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

United Artists of ItalyPortraits of Major Artists by Important Italian Photographers

Til 4 September 2011

The Estorisk Collection of Modern Italian Art in London is currently holding an exhibition of portraits of some of the 20th century’s best known artists by twenty-two leading Italian photographers.

It shows a cross-section of Italian photography spanning more than thirty years, revealing the extraordinary skills of the photographers while at the

same time paying homage to the great artists who are the subjects. The photographs present a history of contemporary art and artists not through their art works but through faces, poses and expressions.

Admission £5, concessions £3.50, includes permanent collection and temporary exhibitions.

Open Wed-Sat 11.00-18.00, Sun 12.00-17.00. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

www.estoriskcollection.comGianni Berengo Gardin Ugo Mulas, Como, 1969Gelatin silver print, 30 x 39.5 cm

©Edinburgh Book Festival

One of England’s most famous and iconic cities, picture perfect Oxford brings in visitors from across the globe, however

for those who have yet to spend time soaking up it’s historic colleges, a short break is the ideal way to explore the city.

Oxford is most famous for its university which dominates every inch of the landscape., The university colleges role call of ex students reads like a who’s who of British society, ex students include Evelyn Waugh, Oscar Wild and 25 prime ministers with David Cameron the most recent.

One of the most beguiling features of the city is the sense that there has been little change over the years and it remains totally unspoilt and unique. The ancient cobbled streets are steeped in history, the preferred transport of students is by bicycle and the city reflects the vibrant arts scene, theatres and live music venues – the highlight for many being evensong in Christ Church Cathedral.

The best way to see Oxford is to take one of the official walking tours with a Blue Badge Guide. This gives you a chance to gain inner access to some of the colleges and learn more about the history of the city. The tour takes two hours but our enthusiastic guide over ran by an hour such was her enthusiasm for her subject.

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Oxford is not just a historical city but is much sought after for TV and film locations, who couldn’t be in Oxford and not be reminded of the famous Morse and more recent Lewis TV Series. One of the best recommendations of taking a short break in Oxford is that everything is in walking distance and can be seen over a two day period.

If shopping is your thing then the Oxford Covered Market is the best place to make that unique purchase, full of small independent shops selling everything from cheeses to handbags. For those seeking designer names and gentleman outfitters then Westgate Shopping Centre is the place to head for.

Fancy a change of scene, then meander to one of the numerous river pubs, book a river cruise or just sit and relax soaking up the atmosphere with a glass of Pimms. Take a stroll to the University of Oxford Botanical Gardens one of the oldest Botanic Gardens in the world

plants, an arboretum, glasshouses and a walled garden.

Take a break…One of Oxfords oldest pubs, The Turf Tavern, is well worth a visit. Steeped in history it is full of old world charm, and serves great reasonably priced fare. A firm favourite with locals. A perfect venue for lunch or afternoon tea has to be The Crypt at Saint Mary the Virgin. All produce is locally sourced and the cream teas and cakes quite delicious.

More to do in OxfordVisit the Ashmolean Museum, Britain’s oldest

Take a guided tour around Oxford CastleSee the Bodleian Library containing

Outside the CityBlenheim Palace, 8 miles from Oxford a world heritage site and the birthplace of Winston ChurchillCotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, Stunning tropical gardens for adults set in 160 acres with a wildlife park for children

Waterperry Gardens, once a women only gardening school now displays some of the finest herbaceous borders in England

The Rowing Museum, Henley, see England’s boating history and children will be enthralled with the new Wind in the Willows interactive exhibition

StayThe Cotswold Lodge Hotel, an independently run 4* hotel just a short walk from Oxford’s historic centre. The Victorian façade boasts many period features and the elegant comfortable rooms in the old wing are named after the Oxford Colleges. Breakfasts are substantial with hot food cooked to order. Staff are friendly and welcoming and the hotel boasts facilities including a popular restaurant, bar and wireless internet. Prices start at £65.00mper night room only ■

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All Souls College Crest ©harmitage

All Souls College Crest

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elOriel College Hall ©harmitage

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www.visithavant.co.uk

Retirement means more time to traveland explore the world, but sometimes it’shard to decide where to go, what to seeand what to avoid…

Visit Silver Travel Advisor at www.silvertraveladvisor.comfor advice and travel reviews you can trust, because theyare written by other mature travellers.

You can also share your own experiences, enter our competitions, or contact one of our experienced Advisorsto help plan your next holiday.

w w w . s i l v e r t r a v e l a d v i s o r . c o m

WINa fabulousholidayfor two people!See our websitefor details

TravelingTraveling to Belgium is easy. You can take the Eurostar and the cost for a return ticket is as low as 60 £. This takes around 2 hours. If you wish, a personal driver can wait for you and pick you up.

Further infoWe have the flexibility to suggest your surgery in a private clinic (as a day case), or if the surgery is more

difficult in a Belgian public NHS hospital (www.sjk.be). You always will get a personal treatment, and will never feel like a number. You will see the plastic surgeon (you can find his name at the website), before the operation in London, and afterwards for check-ups. Hence there are no surprises before or after the operation. He is registered with the Belgian and UK GMC, and is also a member of the Belgian royal society of plastic surgeons (the official society for plastic surgeons in Belgium).

The Singelbergclinic Team

www.singelbergclinic.co.uk - info@singelbergclinic.co.uk - UK: 08712847000 - BE: 0032 - 3 755 51 00

SINGELBERGCLINICCosmetic Surgery in BelgiumWhy not ? --------------------------------------

Some decisions just can’t be rushed. You need honest advice and that’s why the first consulta on and the check-ups are always done in London by the plas c surgeon himself. There is a comprehensive guarantee given with every procedure.

The Retired Greyhound Trust has launched a huge fundraising drive to raise thousands of pounds to help them find loving homes for dogs in its kennels.

The Trust, which finds homes for greyhounds at the end of their racing careers, aims to raise at least £10,000 of much-need funds in the next few months – that is the equivalent of 2,500 kennel days.

Ivor Stocker, Director of the Retired Greyhound Trust, said: “Without funds, the charity cannot care for homeless dogs in our kennels. With funds, we can find homes for the dogs and carry out checks to ensure new homes are safe and secure for the dogs. These vital finances also ensure that the greyhounds are fit and healthy before they arrive at their new home – the dogs are neutered, vaccinated, wormed and flea treated.”

There are lots of ways to a make a donation to the Retired Greyhound Trust. You can donate online through Just Giving - http://www.justgiving.com/greyhounds/donate/, you can send a cheque to The Retired Greyhound Trust, 2nd Floor, Park House, Park Terrace,

call our office on 0844 826 8424. The Trust has also launched a new texting donation service - just text RGTD01

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Greyhound Celebration Returns to NottinghamThe Retired Greyhound Trust’s Great Greyhound Gathering is back for its fifth year.

Hundreds of greyhounds will descend on Nottingham for the family fun doggy extravaganza on

The Great Greyhound Gathering – the national dog show to celebrate greyhounds and the work of the Retired Greyhound Trust (www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk) – will take place at Nottingham Race Course.

The Retired Greyhound Trust hopes this national show will help to find loving new homes for the hundreds of dogs around the country who are living in its kennels and raise much needed funds.

Ivor Stocker, from the Retired Greyhound Trust, said: “This is a celebration of all of the work that is undertaken by Retired Greyhound Trust branches across the country.

“We would like the Great Greyhound Gathering to raise awareness of the number of greyhounds we currently have in kennels and what great pets and companions they make.

“The show is a great opportunity for anyone thinking of getting a dog to come along and meet a greyhound and talk to lots of owners. Greyhounds do make fantastic pets. They are extremely placid and adaptable dogs and can live happily with children and other pets. They also make excellent companions for the elderly because they are loving animals who do not require large amounts of exercise.”

The show will see hundreds of greyhounds and dogs of all breeds showcased in front of Crufts judge Keith Thornton, Ann Raymond and Belinda Race.

The event will start at 9am with a host of activities, including stalls with dog goodies and face painting. The winning design of the Retired Greyhound Trust’s national competition the Ultimate Dog Coat will also be unveiled for the very first time.

Ivor Stocker added: “This is our big event of the year. There will be something for everyone, so come along and support the Retired Greyhound Trust.

“The dog show has classes for greyhounds and other breeds, so get your entries in or just turn up on the day. All money raised at the event will help branches of the Retired Greyhound Trust across the country to care for greyhounds when they have finished their racing careers until we can find them new homes.” ■If you would like more information on the event, fundraising opportunities or adopting a retired greyhound, please contact the Retired Greyhound Trust, tel: 0844 8268424 or log on to www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk.

On The UpThe Trust is this month celebrating a boost in the number of greyhounds that have found loving new homes.

Homing figures for January to March are up by more

Ivor Stocker said: “This is really encouraging news for our charity, but there are still many dogs that still need loving new homes and we would appeal to anyone who is looking for a dog as a pet to consider a greyhound.

“They make particularly good pets for the older generation as they are loyal and loving companions and only require two short walks a day,” he added.

Charity Fundraising Push

With funds, we can find homes

for the dogs and carry out checks to ensure new homes are safe

and secure

RETIREMENT today 33

A little change from you...

...can make a big change to him.

What is StatiQinon?StatiQinon is a new formulation product containing Co-enzyme Q10, Red Yeast Rice and ALA (Alpha-linolenic acid).

Coenzyme Q10 is a vitamin-like compound which practically all cells in the human body depend on in order to produce energy.

Red yeast rice, a dietary staple in some Asian countries, is yeast cultivated on rice.

fatty acid that is found in plants. ALA is an essential fatty acid meaning that it can’t be produced by the body but must be obtained through the diet.

How does StatiQinon work?Co-enzyme Q10: is stored in the mitochondria (power house) of every cell and is responsible for the production of energy. Tissues with a high energy requirement such as the heart, muscles and liver contain more mitochondria within their cells. Coenzyme Q10 is also an important antioxidant and protects cell membranes from the damaging effects of free radicals. Red yeast rice: contains 14 active compounds called monacolins, which have been shown to inhibit the synthesis of cholesterol.ALA: May help reduce the build up of fats in the arteries thus reducing cholesterol and triglycerides.

What do you take StatiQinon for?Cholesterol isn’t all bad, our bodies need cholesterol for normal functioning and as long as the amount we have stays within normal levels, it poses no health issues. However, lifestyle and genetics can lead to an increase in bad cholesterol (LDL) which if left unchecked can lead to heart disease.

Research suggests that each of the ingredients in StatiQinon may protect against the build up of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the body.

How much should you take?Pharma Nord recommends 2 capsules per day, or as directed by a physician.

Which is the best form to take?Pharma Nord recommends choosing supplements that are produced to pharmaceutical standards, to guarantee quality and safety. Vitamins benefit from being blister-packed to protect the active ingredients from the atmosphere and contamination.

Are there any contra-indications?There are no known interactions or contra-indications with StatiQinon

Pregnant and lactating women and those on medication should seek professional advice prior to taking nutritional supplements.

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What is cholesterol?

In contrast to common belief, cholesterol is not always a “culprit”. It is a vital substance which the human body depends on for normal functioning. As long as our cholesterol levels stay within a normal, healthy range, there is no problem.

Cholesterol travels through the blood in small “packages” incorporated in large molecules known as lipoproteins and are combinations of protein and fat. There are four main groups of lipoproteins:

We get our cholesterol from the body’s own production and from food.

are important for the content of LDL cholesterol in the blood. Saturated fat comes mainly from dairy fat, but also from animal fats.

It is a very harmfulI substance in the body commonly formed from the reaction of fats and oxygen during high temperature cooking

Facts About Red Yeast Rice

cultivating the yeast strain Monascus purpureus on rice. This process produces a strong red colour

food coloring for centuries in China and many Asian countries. For example is the famous red Peking duck coloured by red yeast rice

is documented as far back as the Tang Dynasty in 800 A.D

different from red yeast rice sold in grocery stores

Natural Cholesterol

BalanceStatiQinon

The latest innovation from Pharma Nord UK

®

Facts about ALA

short-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid belonging to the group of omega-3 fatty acids and found in eg. flaxseed oil

minor amount of other omega-3 fatty acids from ALA

has better health benefits for women than for men

Facts about Coenzyme Q10

vitamin-like substance and therefore best absorbed with a meal containing some fat

and oxygen

energy but the heart, liver and kidneys have the highest Q10- concentrations

own production of Q10 begins to decline already in the twenties

consume ■

For more information call FREE on 0800 591 756 or email uksales@pharmanord.co.ukwww.statinq10.com

Pharma Nord (UK) Ltd, Telford Court, Morpeth, NE61 2DB. Reg. Number 2278389.

How to buy?

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LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POORSr. Stephen, Provincial House, 2a Meadow Road, London SW8 1QH

Tel: 020 7735 0788 Fax: 020 7582 0973Email: mplond@aol.comRegistered Charity No. 234434

LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POOR

The Little Sisters of the Poor is a Congregation of religious sisters dedicated to the service of the elderly of modest means, regardless

of nationality or creed. Founded in France in 1839 by Jeanne Jugan, established in Britain in 1851, our work is today carried out among the elderly in thirty-one countries on five continents,

with 17 Homes throughout England, Ireland and Scotland. In providing total care we believe in enabling Residents to fulfil

their physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs. We have at heart to recognise their dignity, desire of being respected,

esteemed and loved and their longing to feel themselves useful.With your help we wish to respond to their need for

companionship, security in health as in sickness, until death, in a family atmosphere.

We really do count on you for support to enable us to continue our care of the elderly.

We greatly appreciate DONATIONS – GIFT AID – LEGACIESThank you

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V italise is a small charity with a big heart. Formerly known as the Winged Fellowship Trust, Vitalise has been

transforming the lives of the UK’s disabled people and those who care them for over 40 years.

For people living with severe disability and the loved ones who care for them, a regular break can make the difference between coping and despair, between just existing and really living. Yet the complexity and cost of organising even the shortest of breaks often presents an insurmountable barrier. This is where Vitalise comes in.

The formula is very simple: Vitalise provides life-enhancing breaks with care for people with severe – often multiple – disabilities, enabling them and their loved ones to enjoy an energising change of scene and rediscover the joy of living. Carefully selected activities and excursions, designed to stimulate and inspire, set Vitalise breaks apart from mere respite and enable the disabled guests to regain their vitality and confidence. At the same, the temporary relief from caring that Vitalise provides helps carers restore their ability to cope.

Vitalise guests Ida and Harry Golesworthy live in Hove. Ida, who

sclerosis 20 years ago and has been in a wheelchair since 1995. Her condition has gradually deteriorated over the years and she now needs full time care. Harry does the lion’s share of caring for Ida.

“Ida can’t use her hands, so I do everything for her - quite literally,” said Harry. “Making her meals, helping her to the toilet, doing the washing, the shopping - it’s never ending. We’ve been married for 52 years and I love her to bits so I wouldn’t

change a thing, but the reality is, it’s really tough.”

“I have a carer who comes in for half an hour to get me up in the morning and again in the evening to help me to bed, but Harry does everything else,”

said Ida. “I’d be lost without him. He’s everything to me.”

“I book myself into Vitalise two or three times a year. It gives both Harry and I a break. I think it’s important to have some time out for us both to do our own thing. It means I can be independent again. Vitalise means I can enjoy a holiday, not just respite, and not have to worry about who will look after me and whether they will have properly trained staff and the special equipment I need.”

“I used to be a nurse, so I know what it’s like to care for somebody full-time. It’s exhausting. I can tell when Harry gets tired. I can see it in his face and he slows down. I don’t know how I’d cope without my Vitalise breaks, but I would worry that Harry’s health would suffer

some hard physical work - and

Restoring hope – the

Vitalise effect

Vitalise provides life-enhancing

breaks with care for people with severe –

often multiple – disabilities

“While Ida’s at Vitalise, I get out in the garden, go out for meals, which is a real treat, as at home I do all the cooking,” said Harry. “But the highlight of my week is going to concerts. I don’t worry about Ida when she’s away because I know she’s in really good hands. I send her a little postcard though - to tell her what I’ve been doing and to say I’m thinking of her.”

“If I could say one thing in person to the people who read this, it would be this: Think about it for a moment. Could this be you sometime in the future? You might be the carer or you might be the one needing care. Either way you will need a break - just occasionally - and you’ll hoping that there might be some organisation out there that can help.”

“Ida and I mix with many disabled people and we have seen at first hand cases where, for one reason or another, the carer has not had a break and their health has suffered or the marriage has failed. It doesn’t bear thinking about.”

“You just need to look at Ida to understand the difference Vitalise can make to the lives of people like us. And I don’t like to think about what would happen if I couldn’t get any respite from caring.”

Vitalise provides accessible breaks with care for people with disabilities and carers at three UK centres in Essex, Southampton and Southport, as well as special Alzheimer’s Weeks for couples affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia ■

For a free brochure and more information about

Vitalise breaks, call 0845 345 1970, email bookings@vitalise.org.uk or visit

www.vitalise.org.uk.

-

G overnment figures prove that we are a generous lot: in 2009-

10 people in the United Kingdom donated to charity a staggering

£10.6 billion. The problem

is that while we’re good at giving, we’re less good at doing. Recent research shows – on the positive side – that one in three of us participate

in some sort of voluntary work once a month, the negative side is that twice that number don’t do anything. People in the 55 to 64 age group are, however, the most likely to volunteer and it is this group which the government feels is best placed to make a bigger contribution.

As part of his Big Society strategy David Cameron announced a £10 million social action fund to encourage people to give time and money to charity. In particular baby boomers are seen as the ones to propel charities to a more prominent role in British society.

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The need is more pressing than ever. As demand for the services charities provide is always increasing, government cuts mean they need more public donations to maintain their services. Government figures, however, show that charitable giving, after years of steady increases, has now flat lined.

David Cameron is already offering a £100,000 reward for the development of a mobile phone ‘giving’ application which will make it easy to text donations. (SMS Charity Service already accepts donations by mobile -- simply text CHARITY to 81400.) He also hopes to make Facebook a giving and recruiting tool.

Yet there are already numerous ways in which you can support your favourite charities, many of which are entirely painless and mean that the benefit to your charity is far greater than the cost to you. Kindness does not have to be costly.

The best giving is regular giving. Payroll and direct debit donations – giving by Standing Order is better than by Direct Debit -- allow charities to plan their long-term development and qualify for tax relief. A basic-rate taxpayer need only pay £8 to make a £10 donation.

It’s even better if your employer is one of those who match Payroll donations. All major charities encourage their supporters to discuss the benefits of matching payroll donations with their employer. Employees working for such companies who make, for instance, a

the tax relief makes that up to £50, which – matched by the employer – means the charity receives £100.

With regular payments through direct debit you sign a Gift Aid declaration form which allows the charity to reclaim the income tax, plus some additional “transitional relief ’’. So if you donate £1, the charity collects £1.25. Unfortunately, the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF)

Aid goes unclaimed every year. If you plan to gift money to more

than one charity, consider an account with the Charities Aid Foundation. This entitles you to a “charity chequebook’’ and charity card to make tax-free donations when you like. By banking with Charity Bank you can also use your savings to help charities. It operates like other banks except that it gives charities,

Look Out

David Cameron is already offering a £100,000 reward

for the development of a mobile phone ‘giving’

application which will make it easy to text donations.

-They’re After Youvoluntary organisations and social enterprises affordable loans. This costs you nothing, but if you choose you can donate the interest you earn on your money to your favourite charity.

More and more charities are offering branded credit cards. They work like all other cards except that the charity gets a small percentage back on the amount you spend.

You can even help simply by changing your online habits. By Using Everyclick to search the web you are making a financial contribution to charities, all of which are listed at Charity Click Donation. By shopping through a charitable cashback site like Give or Take, which donates to charity, you are helping to fund those in need. You can even help by how you choose to invest your savings.

Invest & Give, generates a regular income for The Prince’s Trust.

If you have clutter lying around the house, why not have a clear-out, sell it on eBay and donate the proceeds to a charity? Giving Works is the eBay site that allows you to do this.

None of this is intended to underplay the significant of simply donating to charities. Many of Britain’s largest charities get about

left in wills and smaller charities are encouraging their supporters to follow suit. After all, these donations are free from inheritance tax, which is currently 40%, payable on that part

There are numerous other genuinely pain-free ways in which you can help your favourite charity. Simply by supporting its retail outlet – buying from its shop or online – you increase its income. By donating unwanted presents, for

instance or in some cases old clothes, you are making a contribution at no cost.

What’s more, all charities need hands on support in some form or other. If by giving your time or expertise you free up a paid employee you are saving the charity money.

The most obvious way to do this is by fund-raising, the best way to help many charities. Lynda Scott-Williams of the Arthritic Association speaks for a charity which is striving to keep its membership fee at £6 a year. “There are nine million arthritis sufferers in Britain – including 10,000 children

suffering from osteoarthritis -- and we feel it is vital for us to support the medical research which is developing our understanding of the disease.”

Lynda explains that “we encourage members and supporters to devise fund-raising schemes. Our current focus is the Bourne 2 Bike event on 2 October 2011. It offers four routes through glorious East Sussex countryside, to suit all fitness levels, starting and ending in Eastbourne.”

The Association works to increase awareness of the natural method of treatment developed by Charles de Cote-Marsh, which combines a prescribed diet with the use of remedial massage. This drug-free approach has enables thousands of sufferers to enjoy life-changing improvement.

“Chronic pain can condemn sufferers to a life of misery,” explains David Emsley, CEO of the Pain Relief Foundation. “Many end up losing their jobs and spiral into depression and poverty.” The Foundation’s groundbreaking work has made fundamental improvements to the lives of many of the 9 million sufferers who include cancer, neuralgia and back-pain patients.

“One break-through we’ve made is in treatment of trigeminal neuralgia – a nightmarish condition which causes excruciating facial pain. We now

the condition,” David explains. The

Foundation works closely with the Walton Centre for Neurology, Europe’s biggest pain management clinic and in recognition of its world-famous achievements it has

won the freedom of Liverpool. “We depend entirely on charitable aid

and our fund-raisers are an ingenious lot. Their strategies are listed in our Go for Gold manual,” David adds. “But their role in raising awareness of the Foundation and its work is also crucial. Too many victims of chronic pain are unaware of the treatments which can transform their lives.”

The Martha Trust is also in the business of transforming lives, specifically those with profound physical and multiple learning disabilities for whom it provides residential and respite care at three homes in Kent and East Sussex. “All our clients are wheelchair users and our work is very labour-intensive – some require one-to-one support -- which is one reason why we need to raise

year to maintain our services,” Julie Gayler explains. “ We provide state of the art facilities -- bright, spacious and welcoming accommodation with level access, fully equipped for people with special needs and manned by highly trained care staff offering a wide range of activities, including music and sensory rooms, aromatherapy, reflexology and massage, hydrotherapy and physiotherapy programmes.”

“Our flagship fund-raising event this year is Monte Carlo Madness on Thursday 29 September. Generally, however, we are anxious for supporters and well-wishers to use their contacts to help us enlist corporate support. We are also working hard to encourage people to remember us in their will,” Julie says.

The Trust already takes advantages of new technology as you can donate to Martha when selling on eBay by nominating the charity as your Charitable Recipient. Twitter and Facebook are also vital tools by which Martha spreads the word of its fantastic work.

At a time when the need is greater than ever, it’s never been easier to help a charity ■

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We depend entirely on charitable aid and our fund-raisers are

an ingenious lot.

by Joseph O’Neil

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Here are some hard facts to consider:

A third of homes in the UK have atleast one chronic pain sufferer.One in seven people in the UK suffer from chronic pain – desperately debilitating pain which does not go away.Sufferers say they can’t remember what it is like not to be in pain.A quarter of chronic pain sufferers are diagnosed with depression.Many thousands of chronic pain sufferers lose their jobs because the pain is so bad.Over half of UK sufferers endure chronic pain all day, every day of their lives.One in fi ve chronic pain sufferers say that their pain is so bad that they just want to die.When a chronic pain sufferer loses their job, they are often on the downward spiral to poverty.Pain stops sufferers enjoying simple activities like walking, shopping, sleeping, or playing with their children.

CHRONIC PAIN DOES NOT KILL BUT IT CAN RESULT IN A LIFE-SENTENCE OF SUFFERINGCancer pain is one condition condition on which we pursue active research. Many cancer charities and research organisations are preventedfrom funding work on cancer pain because thbecause their Trust Deeds specify only ‘research into the cause and cure of cancer’ and this, of course, excludes pain. Yet for every £1.47p given to cancer reseacer research, chronic pain research receives less than 1p. The aim of the Foundation isfi nding causes, improving treatments and spreading the word. But resead But research costs money, and there is an urgent need for more and moreresearch. The Foundation receives no funding from the NHS or any Government body. Itnt body. Its work relies entirely on donations; on the generosityof people like you. ‘Where there is a Will there is a way’. By leaving a legacy to Pain Relief FoundationFoundation you will guarantee that your gift will be used towards bringing an end to the terrible agony and suffering of chronic pain.

Tel: 0151 529 5820 Web: www.painrelieffoundation.org.uk Email: secretary@painrelieffoundation.org.ukClinical Sciences Centre, University Hospital Aintree, Lower Lane, Liverpool L9 7AL

F: 0151 529 5821 Registered Charity No. 277732

Pain Relief FoundationRELIEVING CANCER

AND OTHER PAIN THROUGH RESEARCH

Pain is a vital alarm bell to the brain. It tells us that something is wrong.

When the damage has been treated, the pain has normally done its job and usually goes

away. But then there is chronic pain, and that is

very, very different.

How would you like to be remembered?

Find out what your legacy, big or small, would mean to Martha Trust by calling Barry O’Sullivan on 01304 610 448

email barry@marthatrust.org.uk or visit www.marthatrust.org.uk/leavealegacy

By leaving a gift to Martha Trust in your will, you’ll be helping to transform the lives of people with profound disabilities.

You’d be impossible to forget.

Martha Trust, Homemead Lane, Hacklinge, Deal, Kent CT14 0PGT 01304 610448 F 01304 615462 E fundraising@marthatrust.org.uk

W www.marthatrust.org.uk

Registered Charity Number 1067885 Company Number 3467406

With supported housing and nursing care, the Church of England Pensions Board provides security and peace of mind in retirement to those who have given their lives towards helping others in the

name of Christ, including Clergy Widows and Licensed Lay Workers.

We rely on donations and legacies to continue this much needed work.

PLEASE HELP US IN ANY WAY YOU CANThe Church of England Pensions Board (RT)

FREEPOST 898, LONDON SW1P 3YSTel: 020 7898 1800

Web: www.cepb.org.uk/appealsEmail: cepappeals@churchofengland.org

Registered Charity Number: 236627

Making a Difference…

Charity N E W S

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Natural Arthritis

Programme Receives Acclaim

The de Coti-Marsh Treatment Programme for arthritis has been helping sufferers for more than 60

years. Over the past year the team at Central Office has been modifying the programme to take account of today’s scientific knowledge, and to explain the Programme more clearly to members.

“As time goes on, we find more of Charles de Coti-Marsh’s theories

gaining ground and credibility” explains Nutritionist Martin Lau. “For example,

Charles believed that arthritis started in the gut, and as a result recommended that those with arthritis eat little or no red meat. We have now understood that large amounts of saturated fat

and animal protein may have a positive impact on arthritic pain. Whilst we are

clear that our members must eat a healthy diet, we ensure that the Eating Plan we recommend offers nutritionally

sound alternatives. We guide our members until they discover exactly what foods are best for them – but

within a nutritional context.”

“Charles also believed that good posture and the right form of exercise and

movement helps arthritis sufferers” continues Vivienne Coleman, the

Association’s de Coti-Marsh Treatment Manager and a qualified osteopath. “Ensuring that the body is kept in

balance and working to the best of its ability is at the root of all our physical

therapy treatments.”

Membership of The Arthritic Association costs just £6 a year. This gives members access to the complete Programme, as well as to non-means-tested grants to

help with the treatment.

Telephone 0800 652 3188 now for more information.

Meeting for people with diabetesAs a charity for people with diabetes, the Insulin Dependent Diabetes Trust [IDDT] holds an annual conference. It is an informal event for people with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and their spouses and partners to give them the opportunity to meet other people who live with diabetes and learn more about their diabetes from doctors and health professionals.

This year’s conference is entitled ‘It’s my diabetes’ and the aim is to help people to make informed choices about their diabetes treatment. Treatment choice does not just mean what insulin or tablets are taken but also what to eat, how help from pharmacist can be accessed and even what care is wanted from the healthcare professionals. They will be looking at working together to making living with diabetes a little easier and give people the chance to talk over their feelings and experiences of living with diabetes. Living with diabetes does involve spouses and partners too and the conference aims to support them as well.

The conference is being held on Saturday October 15th 2011 at the Kettering Park Hotel, Kettering Northamptonshire. Everyone is welcome, so if you would like more information, please contact IDDT on 01604 622837, e-mail enquiries@iddtinternational.org or write to IDDT, PO Box 294, Northampton NN1 4XS.

The Mare and Foal Sanctuary OPEN THEIR DOORS!The Mare and Foal Sanctuary, an equine charity based in South Devon, are holding their annual Open Day on Saturday 16th July.

The charity has been well established for over twenty years and has helped hundreds of horses, ponies and orphaned foals. Their main focus is rescuing, rehabilitating, retraining and finding loving loan homes for the horses and ponies in their care.

To help raise funds for their essential work the Sanctuary holds regular fundraising events. One of the highlights of their events calendar is the Open Day where there will be lots of stalls, trade stands and demonstrations including demonstrations by a Parelli Group. The day is sure to be a huge hit for everyone of all ages, not just horse lovers!

With a bouncy castle, face painting and the newly refurbished café open for light refreshments, there’s fun for all the family!

The day will prove an excellent opportunity for supporters of the Mare and Foal Sanctuary to meet the people behind the charity and some of the horses and ponies that they have helped to save.

For more information on the Mare and Foal Sanctuary, their Open Day and other upcoming events please visit www.mareandfoal.org or call 01626 355969.

SWEP purchase their own land and have a new additionA local Pony Welfare Charity, South West Equine Protection, has had lots to celebrate this month. SWEP are now in the very fortunate position to purchase their own land, and have done so by buying 16 acres at a local auction. SWEP has rapidly grown out of their current, rented yard and see this purchase as an exciting development allowing them to help many more Moorland ponies. There are still lots to do before they can move on to the land, with fences to put up and hopefully the erection of a purpose built yard. This all will take time and money.

Also for SWEP this month they celebrated the birth of Crystal to mum Sky. Sky came in at the end of the winter with a growth on her ear. They arranged the veterinary treatment and gave her the attention she deserved. Sky became quite a princess and everyone at the charity was delighted to find out she was in foal. Crystal is as lovely as her mum and Sky is doing a fantastic job.

For further information visit www.swep.org.uk or call on 01822 890668.

GREY HAIRS THE REGULAR PENSIONS COLUMN

To coincide with the Government’s current consultation on the future of the UK State pension system, ‘Grey Hairs’ brings you a summer pensions quiz.

*Three prizes of £25 M&S Vouchers to be won* Plus 3 Runners-up will receive a ‘FREE’ State pension health-check.

Please email your answers (with your full name) to robertcagrey@hotmail.com or send them (with a contact address) to GREY HAIRS COMPETITION, Amra Media Solutions Ltd, The Old Lavender Mill, 46a Brook Street, Aston Clinton, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE HP22 5ES

Closing date for entries is 31st AUGUST 2011

The winners and runners-up will be drawn randomly from all the correct entries received and notified accordingly. The answers will be published in a future edition.

GOOD LUCK!

Please select the one correct answer

1) When was the State pension first paid in the UK? a) 1st January 1909 b) 1st July 1922 c) 1st July 1946 2) When it was first paid, what was the original State Pension Age for both men & women? a) 60 b) 65 c) 70 3) When did the State Earnings Related Pension Scheme (SERPS) first take effect? a) April 1978 b) April 1981 c) April 1987 4) What is the maximum Basic State Pension for tax year 2011/12? a) £87.30 b) £102.15 c) £109.75 5) What is the name of the Government department responsible for payment & administration of the State pension? a) The Pensions Ombudsman b) The Pension Protection Fund (PPF) c) The Pension Service 6) In which month does the State pension increase each year? a) January b) April c) December 7) Residents of which country will see no increase to their UK State pension once in payment?a) France b) South Africa c) USA 8) What is the maximum period you can defer payment of your State pension? a) 12 months b) 5 years c) no limit (i.e. indefinitely)

By Robert Grey, Pensions Specialist

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(explanation of how the State pension works, analysis of an up to date forecast (including help understanding how the figures have been calculated) and how proposed changes in legislation may affect your State Pension Age and future entitlement).

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THE UK S LARGEST MOTORHOME DEALER