select ISSUE 19 WINTER 2020
selectmagazinene.co.uk
GOSFORTH WELLBEING & BEAUTY Helping you to be the best version of yourself
HANDMADE ART JEWELLERY
Find the perfect gift with Ouseburn jewellery artist Silverkupe
The Perfect Christmas Tree
Dobbies Garden Centre give their expert guide to real Christmas Trees
also
WHAT'S ON...maybe! | DRIVE SAFE with Concept Eye Clinic
MAXIMIZE EDUCATION tutoring with results LUXURY LIVING with Altoria Developments
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Tel: 0191 251 0439 Mob: 07976 644251
Email: info@hills-landscapes.com
ARE YOU TIRED OF GETTING COMPOST OR PLANTERS HOME? Why not let Hills Landscapes deliver colourful planters or hanging baskets and compost free to your door. We can even collect your favourite planter for re-planting.
Greenleaf Organic Compost 3 for £12 Bespoke planters from £15
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HILLS GARDEN MACHINERY
REPAIRS We can service or repair petrol-powered garden machinery including lawn mowers and hedge trimmers. Cylinder grinding also available.
FREE LOCAL PICK UP AND RETURN SERVICE
Tel: 0191 251 0439 info@hills-landscapes.com
Love your home, inside and out, the Stormshield Way! · GENUINE FAMILY BUSINESS · NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED · PRICES OVER PHONE IF REQUIRED
We are very proud of the reputation that we have built over the last 29 years. As a genuine family run business, we have always provided a first class personal service with top quality products. When you choose Stormshield, you can relax in knowing you are working with a trusted family firm, who really cares. We’ll take care of everything - Fully project managed from start to finish and all building works undertaken.
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Monday to Thursday 9am- 5pm Friday 9am - 3pm Saturday 10am - 4pm. Closed on Sunday
CALL NOW: (01670) 71 00 50 4
Bay Podiatry Professional Footcare
Welcome to Select magazine, a quarterly publication, featuring a mix of local business articles, editorial features and adverts from some of the finest businesses in the local area.
Comprehensive footcare from experienced clinicians
If you’re interested in advertising in the magazine please email info@selectmagazinene.co.uk or call Richard on 07526 522272.
www.selectmagazinene.co.uk
Select Magazines, PO Box 225, Bedlington, NE63 3FL Cover: Joe Browns
Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor the editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other clause. R Wilson Advertising does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All Rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission of the publisher.
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CHRISTMAS EVENTS
WHAT'S ON....maybe With another lockdown in place, there is understandably a high demand for any form of festive cheer as we all try to end the year with a little bit of fun and escapism. The Christmas season has understandably been decimated due to the virus, and tickets for the few Christmas events still going ahead have been snapped up in double quick time, with the likes of Fenwicks and The Alnwick Garden events programmes selling out as soon as they go on sale. With a limited capacity for hosting events and important social distancing measures and restrictions in place, things are a little more difficult to book this year. As venues do their best to provide some form of festive entertainment this year, families looking for a Christmas event to enjoy with the children can still find Christmas shows and events. Booking early is a must this year, and we apologise if these events have already sold out, it’s very hard to keep up with events this year! On these pages we have six Christmas experiences and events in Newcastle and Gateshead that, at time of going to print, you can still book tickets for, including two fabulous light trails, a Christmas film must-see and (hopefully) some hot tickets to enjoy a bite to eat with Santa himself.
Please note
All details are correct at time of going to print. With recent lockdown restrictions, and the possibility of further changes, please check individual event websites for up to date information 6
IGNITE AT GIBSIDE NATIONAL TRUST, GATESHEAD 11 - 30 December Ignite at Gibside National Trust is new for 2020. The eighteenthcentury Georgian splendour of the gardens at the Gibside form the perfect setting for this new, afterdark experience. Enjoy a magical winter evening following a sparkling illuminated trail lit by lanterns, flickering flames and majestic sculptures as it winds through the eighteenth–century gardens in Gateshead. Families with children of all ages will be enchanted by the joy of illuminations. This is the perfect outdoor event for friends wishing to meet up safely within the rule of six too. For tickets visit www. igniteatgibside.seetickets.com/ content/ticket-options CHRISTMAS LIGHT TRAIL AT THE ALNWICK GARDEN 8 - 31 December (excluding 25 December) The Alnwick Garden are gearing up for a glitzy Christmas! When tickets went on sale for their meet Father Christmas events they were snapped up almost instantaneously. but there are still other ways to
experience a magical Christmas at the popular outdoor attraction! See the Garden come to life like you have never seen it before with fantastic sound and light at this after dark spectacular! Fun for all the family and filling your hearts with festive spirit. For tickets visit www.alnwickgarden. com/christmas-2020-at-thealnwick-garden SOCIALLY DISTANCED PANTO AT THEATRE ROYAL NEWCASTLE Saturday 19 December 2020 Sunday 10 January 2021 After a really tough year for Theatre Royal Newcastle, including the postponement of their scheduled fabulous Christmas panto, they have managed to bring a glimmer
of festive sparkle to end 2020. The Newcastle city centre theatre have announced that they will be hosting a limited capacity, socially distanced pantomime this Christmas. Join local favourites Danny, Clive and Chris alongside Geordie superstar Joe McElderry for a whole heap of festive laughs and panto fun based on the classic tale Robin Hood.
call up and book your table, so we cannot guarantee which events with Father Christmas are still available. Sunday Lunch with Santa and The Grinch in the Grotto at The County Hotel, Newcastle. www.countyhotel.co.uk/christmas
Show times include 12noon, 1pm, 3.30pm, 5pm and 7pm depending on the date. Tickets are expected to be snapped up extremely quickly. www.theatreroyal.co.uk/whats-on/ robin-hood A CHRISTMAS CARLOL AT TYNE THEATRE AND OPERA HOUSE Saturday 5 December Here's one for the adults! Join local comedian Carl Hutchinson for a night of comedy at Tyne Theatre and Opera House this December. Carl (who recently found himself on BBC One hosting The One Show fancy) will introduce three fantastic comedy acts doing their best material, with some of his own old and new hilarious stories too. Book your tickets in groups of 2 or 4 (this must be within your household or support bubble) For tickets visit www.eventim.co.uk/event/13296186
Grab a bite with Santa before he takes to the skies
FATHER CHRISTMAS ON HIS HOLIDAYS IN NEWCASTLE Breakfast, dinner or tea - Father Christmas loves to dine out, and he would love you to join him! A number of hotels have booked the big fella to come for a meal and invite you to join too. Grab a bite with Santa before he takes to the skies at The Vermont or The County Hotel in Newcastle. He's a popular guy, especially so close to the big day – both breakfast and supper club events at the much-loved department store Fenwick Newcastle sold out almost instantly, but there are still other options to dine out with Santa. Many of the hotels require you to
Breakfast in Santa's Workshop at The Vermont Hotel, Newcastle. www.vermont-hotel.com/meetingsand-events/breakfast-in-santasworkshop Afternoon Tea and Breakfast with Santa at The Caledonian Hotel, Jesmond. www.peelhotels.co.uk/caledonianhotel/weddings/festive-season. shtml IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE AT SOUTH CAUSEY INN Saturday, 5th December
Indulge in a festive Afternoon Tea at South Causey Inn while you watch perhaps the most iconic Christmas film of all time, It's a Wonderful Life. Surrounded by twinkly Christmas lights and winter wonderland vibes, settle in for an afternoon tea of Turkey Sandwiches, delicious festive Pastries and Christmas Cakes while you find out what happens to George Bailey. Arrive: 5 pm. Afternoon Tea served: 5.30 pm. Movie starts: 6 pm For details please visit www.southcausey.co.uk/its-awonderful-life/ 7
Rend & Mend
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Enjoy a tidy, mud-free, low-maintenance garden all year round with a high quality artificial grass installation from SR Works. ➤ UNRIVALLED ARTIFICIAL GRASS SPECIALISTS ➤ TRAINED TO THE HIGHEST STANDARD IN DOMESTIC GRASS INSTALLATION ➤ FIRST CLASS SERVICE ➤ LANTRA TRAINED INSTALLER Simon Rnic, Director of SR Works Ltd has a background in civil aircraft safety critical equipment design. This has heavily influenced his unique approach to artificial grass installation, which focuses on the need to ensure high quality standards are always achieved.
CALL SIMON ON 07734 679 747 email: simon@srworks.co.uk
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www.srworks.co.uk
Brooks of Oldgate In our amazing shop we have a unique range of hand painted furniture, unique up-cycled accessories including lamps, clocks, coat hooks and a fabulous range of interior items to enhance any home. A great collection of locally sourced art and crafts including Dixie Sim, Smokie Jo Gems, Best Kept Secrets‌ There’s also plenty of help and advice on hand and hopefully our shop will help inspire your creative side.
ooks of Oldgate
e ue s, ge of home.
Check out our Facebook page: brooksofoldgate @morpethclocktower
16 Oldgate, Morpeth, NE61 1LX
(behind the Clock Tower)
The Furniture Painter at Brooks of Oldgate Here at Brooks of Oldgate we love to paint furniture, although we mainly focus on painting and selling our own pieces, we are delighted to announce we are taking commissions for the painting of customers furniture.
art ie Jo
e on p
ower
Rather than throw out that piece of furniture that no longer fits your decor why not ask us to paint it to give it a new lease of life. We can help with your colour choices & discuss your options. You have nothing to lose so why not ask us for our thoughts?
16 Oldgate, Morpeth, NE61 1LX
(behind the Clock Tower) 9
CHRISTMAS
Festive Fun in the Time of COVID
HOW ON EARTH CAN WE CELEBRATE IN THE MIDST OF ALL THIS? By Kate McCarthy
It's been a weird old year and we'd all be forgiven for feeling more flat than festive. What we need are some simple ways to take our mind off the current situation and finda little bit of fun. The pandemic will mean Christmas won’t look like it usually does, but with a bit of thought and creativity it's still possible to celebrate even, if we have to spend Christmas away from friends and family:
PRIORITISE Which traditions matter most to you? Which are easiest to maintain? You can still set up the Christmas decorations, make special foods, and watch your favourite films. Pantomimes and trips to the ballet are not possible though, so use the family time to set up a games evening with prizes and lots of shouting. You can play charades with friends and family either outside or via video link. My kids love Nintendo Just Dance, and find it hilarious when my husband and I join in. Kids mostly want you... in silly festive mode. So put your phone away, just like you would at the theatre, and get stuck in.
DECORATE A TREE OUTSIDE This is the year to deck out your decking, and pretty your patio. Adorn an outdoor tree with LED lights and shatterproof ornaments. Use twist ties or florist’s wire to secure the ornaments so they stay put even in the wind. Then invite a few friends round for a socially distanced switch on, complete 10
with mulled wine.
MAKE MEMORIES Create an advent calendar with festive activities for each day. The activities don’t have to be elaborate; it could just be drinking hot chocolates with marshmallows together, wearing Santa hats, watching Elf, or taking silly festive photos START A NEW TRADITION How about a Secret Santa gift exchange outside round a firepit with toasted marshmallows? Or outdoor games on the decking with blankets and hot chocolate? There might be an outdoor cinema near you showing Christmas films. Go with friends, take blankets and flasks, and have a socially distanced outdoor film night! SPREAD SOME JOY If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s
how much the people in our lives actually mean to us, so spread happiness where you can. Write down how much the people you love mean to you and send it out to them. Make Christmas cookies and leave some with your friends and neighbours.
DIFFERENT CAN BE SPECIAL You probably don't remember exactly what happens at Christmas from year to year, but when something out of the ordinary occurs, it sticks in your memory... Christmas disasters often make the best dinner party stories in the years that follow. 2020 has the capacity to give us all enough stories for decades! * Please ensure any activites you undertake are in line with any lockdown restrictions in place as stated at www.gov.uk/coronavirus
TYNEMOUTH'S FIRST ZERO WASTE PLASTIC-FREE STORE
WE SELL: DRIED FOODS CLEANING PRODUCTS HOUSEHOLD GOODS TOILETRIES Come down to Buy The Kilo and purchase your goods by weight: as much or as little as you need. Bring your own containers and re-stock your pantry. Jars, bottles and paper bags available in store.
Our friendly team are on hand to help you! UNIT 3 THE SIDINGS · TYNEMOUTH METRO STATION TYNEMOUTH · NE30 2TF *
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ADVERTIS ING FEATU RE
Handmade Art-Jewellery
S
ituated in Ouseburn, the artistic engineroom of Newcastle, Silverkupe offers unique handmade jewellery for discerning clients. After more than 20 years of teaching landscape architecture and 3D modelling, Emine started her jewellery journey in 2017 and never looked back. Originally from Istanbul, she lives in Whitley Bay and creates her contemporary jewellery from the BBox Studios in Newcastle. Since the beginning of her creative journey Emine has always been fascinated by colour, texture and form. She uses a combination of techniques in her creations, such as traditional silversmithing, metalclay, and sculptural and enamelling techniques. She seeks to bring together the individual characteristics of different materials and techniques to construct unmistakable pieces. Colour plays an important role in her designs also. Emine achieves deep blacks by selective oxidisation, intense blues and reds by vitreous enamels, and adds indulgence to her designs with 24k gold-accents. Her pieces get hallmarked at the Edinburgh Assay Office.
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Emine’s modern silver art-jewellery, with its pop of colour and gold, might be just the thing you are looking for. Emine’s expressive jewellery offers a contemporary twist on more traditional ideas. Due to handmade process, every single piece is one-of-a- kind. Currently she has four collections within her portfolio, Colour Seeds, Dotty, Simplicity and Half & Half that reflects her unique design. You can find her art-jewellery in fourteen galleries and gift shops across the UK and on her website. Up until recently, she also exhibited her designs in many UK locations such as London, York, Newcastle,
Durham, Saltaire, Glasgow and, of course, Whitley Bay. Speaking about life as a designer-maker and her business values, Emine said: ‘Jewellery and precious metals play an important role in traditional Turkish culture. Just have a look at the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul! This culture is embedded in me. I am also fascinated by how silver, and indeed gold, can be endlessly recycled, and how every bit of discarded metal can eventually be turned into a beautiful piece. I use eco-friendly jewellery presentation boxes and my postage material is all recycled’. Emine has been living in the UK since 1999 and the name ‘Silverkupe’ encapsulates her background and her future. ‘Küpe’ means an earring in Turkish. As a child and a teenager, Emine always liked silver jewellery and especially earrings. So she combined two words from the two different
cultures to which she belongs to create her brand name. Emine loves teaching and enjoys seeing people developing and finding out what they are cable of doing. She gives jewellery-making workshops at her studio. These are currently one-to-one only. Workshops from her range are proving to be popular gifts. You can select from six different workshops, ranging from introductory silverclay to more advanced silversmithing techniques. She is planning further options for her workshop portfolio to spread the joy of making even more! Emine’s modern silver art-jewellery, with its pop of colour and gold, might be just the thing you are looking for. You can select a statement piece or everyday jewellery to accompany your individual style. Emine also accepts bespoke commissions and designs the pieces according to her client’s needs, desires and visions. And if you cannot decide what to choose for a loved one, she offers personalized gift cards as well. ■ Silverkupe Jewellery & Workshops, BBox Studios, Studio 30, Stoddart Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 1AN www.silverkupe.com contact@silverkupe.com 13
Are your carpets & sofas ready for Christmas? Spots & stains - gone Cleans & lifts pile - like new Odours & smells - removed Carpets ready straight away
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Pauline Stephenson Aesthetics
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Please visit my facebook page or website for reviews & photos of my work. Thinking of becoming an Aesthetic Beauty Technician? I am an Accredited Training Provider, offering the best in ‘one to one’ training to fit around your own schedule.
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Pauline Stephenson Aesthetics
I look forward to welcoming you to my home clinic located in Cramlington.
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A D V E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E
Luxury Living in Stannington
EXECUTIVE BUNGALOW DEVELOPMENT DUE TO COMPLETE IN EARLY 2021
H
usband and wife team Alan and Victoria, of Altoria Development, recently returned to Stannington Station to build more of their stunning, executive bungalows. The couple began their development venture in 2016 with a passion to build bespoke bungalows in the North-East. From Morpeth themselves, they found their first development in Stannington Station and obtained planning permission for fourteen bungalows at Furrow Grove, all of which were snapped up and sold off-plan. Since then they have expanded their portfolio to Oakfield Grove, Blyth, an intimate development of four bungalows. Alan said “We are delighted to return to Stannington Station to build a sister site to Furrow Grove. Ridge Grove will maintain the high quality and executive specification that is expected of Altoria Development. This development has three different bungalow types and are all threebedroom homes; each home is fully adaptable and provides all of the benefits of one-storey living.” Ridge Grove offers each buyer the opportunity to design their new
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“Ridge Grove will be a gated development and offer luxury before you even step into one of the exceptional homes. "
home without the responsibility of managing a self-build. With bespoke Kitchens including choice of stone worktop, co-ordinated cabinetry and all integrated appliances included as standard. Villeroy and Boch bathroom and ensuite both fully tiled. Flooring is included throughout and there is a choice of internal oak doors and finishings. Farrow and Ball colours throughout and all offering double garages with electric doors. Victoria explained “Ridge Grove will be a gated private development and offer luxury before you even step into one of our exceptional homes. The bungalow’s have been designed to compliment the nearby surroundings of the Northumberland countryside and has been placed delicately into the heart of the wonderful community that is
Stannington Station.” Stannington Station has the luxury of a wonderful Farm Shop and cafe with facilities for young children to play, garage and convenience store all a few minutes walk from Ridge Grove. Slightly further afield is the village of Stannington with a quaint pub and village hall. The historic market town of Morpeth is only a few miles away which provides an abundance of shops, boutiques, excellent schools, doctors and dentists. Alan and Victoria expect completions to take place from early 2021. Prices from £445,000 onwards. To request the sales literature please contact Altoria Development on 01670 432603 alternatively email info@altoriadevelopment.co.uk
Northumbria
Flooring & Furniture OUTLET Winner of Flooring Retailer of the Year 2019 North East Division
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Expert in house fitting service · Free measuring and advice OPEN Monday to Wednesday 9.30am - 5.30pm · Thursday 9.30am - 8.00pm Friday 9.30am - 5.30pm · Saturday 9.00am - 6.00pm · Sunday 10.30am - 5.00pm
Unit 44, Royal Quays Outlet Centre, North Shields, NE29 6DW
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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E
We don’t miss a thing AT CONCEPT, OUR ZEISS LENS PORTFOLIO IS DESIGNED FOR ALL ROUND VISION CONFIDENCE
Introducing our new Myopia Control Programme DESIGNED TO GIVE YOUR CHILD THE BEST START IN LIFE
A testament to the benefits of an eye examination with Concept, is the growing number of patients, who have joined our eye care programme during the pandemic, prioritising their health and wellbeing. Concept Eye Clinic are independent leaders in vision correction, clinical screening and the management of early anterior and posterior eye conditions before it’s too late. We all know driving can be stressful at the best of times. As the nights draw in, it’s important we keep on top of our vision. DriveSafe provides complete vision awareness on the road, offering supreme comfort in single vision and varifocal designs even for everyday wear. With luminance design technology, this is a life changing lens not just for the road but for your every day needs. DriveSafe takes into account different light conditions and pupil sizes for natural vision and helps provide better re-focusing on the road, between your dashboard and mirrors and perception of contrast and colour.. Quite simply this means you won’t miss a single detail on the road – even in rain, mist or at dusk!
5 REASONS WE LOVE ZEISS
■ UVPROTECT TECHNOLOGY: A higher level of UV protection, which enables clear ZEISS lenses to block harmful UV rays up to 400 nm. This is the same standard of UV protection premium sunglasses provide. ■ ZEISS FACEFIT TECHNOLOGY: Matches the unique facial anatomy for full potential of lens zones. ■ ZEISS FRAMEFIT+TECHNOLOGY: Optimised lens performance in any frame. ■ ZEISS LUMINANCE DESIGN TECHNOLOGY: Technology that incorporates the pupil size for driving in mesopic conditions and optimises the lens design accordingly ■ ZEISS DURAVISION DRIVESAFE: DuraVision® DriveSafe Coating is an anti-reflective coating that partially reflects specific wavelengths responsible for glare.
Book your eye examination appointment with Concept and for a limited period only enjoy: 30% off DriveSafe + FREE standard single vision on your second pair. Call 0191 296 6124 ■ Concept Eye Clinic, 25 Front St, Tynemouth, NE30 4DX concepteyeclinic.com 18
Myopia or short-sightedness causes blurred vision in the distance. It usually begins in childhood and is more common in children who have a myopic parent, although sometimes there is no family history. short sightedness is connected with a number of more serious eye problems in later life such as retinal detachment, cataract, glaucoma & maculopathy. With every increase in myopia, the risk of developing these conditions increases. We are proud that Concept Eye Clinic has been selected to have access to MiSight® 1 day, a new contact lens treatment to slow down the rate at which myopia develops. Scientific evidence shows that use of this therapy gives the best results in slowing progression of myopia. These lenses are soft, comfortable to wear and children adapt very quickly to them, often more so than adults! They can usually be fitted to young children. The earlier in the development of myopia, the greater the overall end result will be. Contact Sam at our Tynemouth clinic for more details. Available exclusively at Tynemouth Call 0191 2966124
30% OFF Zeiss DriveSafe Lenses & FREE Single Vision Lenses in your 2nd Pair
Limited Time Offer. T&C’s Apply
Gosforth Clinic:
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SUDOKU
Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.
WORDSEARCH Can you find all of the British Prime Ministers hidden in the grid? Asquith Attlee Baldwin Balfour Blair Brown Callaghan Cameron Chamberlain Churchill Douglas Home
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Eden Heath Johnson Law Lloyd George MacDonald Macmillan Major May Thatcher Wilson
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affordable, high quality private dentistry At Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice we provide Late night appointments 3 days a week Easy access with ground floor facilities Guaranteed registration with the practice Access to daily emergency appointments 24 hour helpline number for dental emergencies at home and abroad, 365 days a year for practice plan members
We offer a wide range of treatments including Children’s dentistry Restorative dentistry Bespoke dentures Quick Straight teeth Cosmetic dentistry Smile design Prevention Implants Invisalign® Bleaching Facial aesthetics Sedation for adults and children. Intravenous and inhalational sedation If you’re unhappy with your smile or would like a routine check up
CALL US NOW 01670 828402 or email toothurty@btinternet.com
Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice 30 Front Street East, Bedlington, NE22 5AA 22
The Carpet and Flooring Specialists
NEW TO THE GOSFORTH AREA! OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE FLOORING MARKET EXPERIENCE A SERVICE THAT IS SECOND TO NONE Top quality, honest and personable approach to flooring; ensuring ALL customer expectations are not only met, but exceeded. We give honest advice and options and allow YOU to make the right decision for yourself!
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ADVERTIS ING FEATU RE
How we look can determine how we feel. It’s been a turbulent time with social challenges carrying our sense of mortality and wellbeing to the fore. The pandemic has provided many of us rare opportunity to pause and reflect, but we continue to live with an increased pace and expectation. We have one life to carry our
Hair by Carla at BSolo
human need to feel confident and be the best version of ourselves.
A Gosforth girl at heart, Carla is a charismatic hair stylist with a loyal following. Her warmth
Perhaps the time to make a difference to your health and wellbeing is now. At our new centre in the heart of Gosforth High Street, Newcastle, you will find a dedicated selection of therapists, combining decades of experience to help you feel good, nurtured and empowered. Welcome to Gosforth Beauty and Wellbeing By appointment Only.
Lamai Thai Massage With a restorative massage, you can escape the pressures of life. Talented thai therapists led by Mattaneya will relieve pain, ease muscle aches, improve blood flow, allow your body to de-stress and relax. Lamai Traditional Thai Massage believes in the interconnection of the body and mind. It was voted as one of the top things to do in Gosforth by TripAdvisor, and receives regular 5 star reviews by those who have derived lasting personal benefit..
0191 2855 644 info@lamaithaimassage.co.uk 24
and experience in the hair industry is underpinned by a fervent desire to keep on top of the latest and most effective style and therapeutic trends such as Balayage and products including Moroccan Oil and Olaplex.
07387 846532 macecarla@yahoo.com
Dr K. Aesthetics & Hair Implants We are delighted to welcome Dr Kalra, celebrated aesthetics practitioner. Born in Denmark, he trained at Harley Street. With expertise in non invasive advanced procedures (such as anti wrinkle and dermal filler) his treatments are designed to subtly revive your appearance, enhance your natural beauty and provide confidence through hair restoration for men and women. “Anyone who has experienced permanent hair loss is eligible for treatment. For many of my patients, it’s often a life changing experience.”
07455910922 drk@drkaesthetic.com
Dr K
advanced facials beauty & spa therapies
City Retreat by Lesley Caster With over 30 beauty industry awards for outstanding service and care, City Retreat founded by Lesley Caster, is predicated on treating skin beyond the surface. “Following the success of our Jesmond salon, I’m delighted to be part of the Gosforth Beauty and Wellbeing Centre, where we will be offering a range of advanced skin care, including; HydroFacial, ELEMIS BioTec, CACI Non Surgical Face Lift, Dermalogica Skin Care and Skin Peels to name a few. Our skin specialists will deliver a 360-degree approach with tailored facials, a full range of pregnancy treatments and of course.. our signature spa therapies!”
Advanced Beauty by Victoria Lockyer Victoria specialises in facial treatments and body sculpting including anti-ageing, microdermabrasion, LED phototherapy and IPL (intense pulsed light) which is medically certified to help with skin concerns such as rosacea, broken capillaries, pigmentation, acne, scarring and sun damage. “I alwasy start with a bespoke plan, and my treatments are designed to enhance appearances without the extremity of invasive procedures.”
07477581410 www.advancedbeautycare.co.uk
0191 281 9222 beauty@city-retreat.com
Alan Brice Counselling / Supervision
S.N (Gosforth)
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We sometimes need a private space to reflect. With over 30 years therapeutic and clinical supervisory experience, Alan Brice (accredited with the BACP) brings expert knowledge to help you work through your emotional needs. Alan has taught his subject at both Durham and Newcastle Universities. “It’s a privilege and delight to help people and to see their progress through difficulties. Counselling offers an opportunity to talk about things that often are hard to discuss, and I hope I can make it easier to do that.”
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A D V E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E
TUTORING WITH PROVEN RESULTS If you have any concerns over missed education this year and are considering tuition, Morpeth based Maximize Education can help
I
ndividual tuition can make a huge difference to a student’s confidence and academic success, but finding the right tutor is not always easy. However, the answer might be right here in Morpeth, in the shape of Christine Jamieson and the Maximize Education team! The Maximize Education concept began over 15 years ago, when Christine wanted to professionalise out-of-school tuition services, so that parents could be assured that tutors were fully qualified, DBS checked and had undergone safe recruitment procedures. This would also ensure professional tutors could work within a dedicated, fully-equipped environment with access to ongoing training opportunities and personal development. She wanted parents and students to be able to access as many subject tutors as they needed for individual tuition within one place, so that subjects could be alternated or rotated as required to ensure convenience and best use of time and money. But, most importantly, Christine wanted students to enjoy their tuition, reduce their learning or examination anxiety, build their confidence, and nurture their learning journey so they could achieve their absolute best. The first centre opened in Gosforth, shortly followed by the Morpeth Tuition Centre, based at 32a Newgate Street. Maximize Education is now a team of twelve highly qualified educators, covering an extensive range of subjects from Key stage 2 through to A-level, in addition to undergraduate support and adult learning and alternative education
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provision for home-schoolers. Tutors deliver both supportive and examination focused tuition using proven methods, developed and perfected to ‘Nurture Knowledge and Maximize Success.’ All tuition is delivered 1:1 with an individual learning programme put in place for each student whether you attend the centre in person or take online tutorials. The events of 2020 have provoked dramatic changes in the way education is delivered. Maximize Education have spent lockdown gaining further qualifications themselves, and developing their online learning platform to compliment individual tutorials. The centre has also undergone an extensive refurbishment to ensure COVID19 safety for their staff and students. They have put in place individual (self-contained) tuition pods, complete with 2 metre distancing between student and tutor, desk screens and hand sanitising stations. Stationery and resources are provided for each student individually and all staff wear face shields and masks. Tuition pods are sanitized after each student and timetables are staggered to assist social distancing. Individual tuition is available at the Morpeth Centre or online, between 9am – 8.30pm Monday – Friday and 10am – 4pm Saturdays. If you have any concerns over missed education this year and are considering tuition, get in touch. E: maximizeeducation@gmail.com T: 07894852929 www.maximizeeducation.com
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A DVE RT I SI NG F E AT URE
An expert guide to
Real Christmas Trees T
he focal point of the festive season has to be the Christmas tree. A day out to choose the perfect tree has become a magical highlight of the countdown to Christmas and it quickly becomes the star of the show once home and decorated. The go-to destination for real Christmas trees, the experts at Dobbies Garden Centres, have put together their essential guide, including tips to help you choose the picture-perfect one, keep it looking its best, and finally what to do with it when the time comes to take it down. In a change for 2020, the UK’s leading garden centre retailer is responding to demand and focusing on one type of real tree, the Nordmann Fir. Growing in popularity year-on-year, the traditional real tree has become a firm family favourite and here they explain why. With everything you need to create the perfect Christmas, visit your local store at Gosforth, Morpeth or Ponteland or browse the online range at Dobbies.com. ■ CHOOSING YOUR TREE Healthy trees will have a shiny, glossy green coating on the needles which feels slightly waxy to touch. A quality tree should have good needle retention and sturdy branches. Avoid bare branches test the needle retention by taking the tree by the trunk and give it a gentle tap on the ground. All evergreen trees lose needles all year round, but any more than a few fallen pine needles then you may want to reconsider your tree choice. There are two main types, Nordmann Fir and Fraser Fir - both available as cut or pot grown. Nordmann Fir With its classic Christmas tree shape, glossy green foliage and fresh pine scent, it’s easy to see why this is by the far the most popular variety for the perfect festive centrepiece. British
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grown for Dobbies, the Nordmann Fir has good needle retention and the softer foliage makes it the ideal option for families with young children or pets. Fraser Fir This tree is slightly narrower in shape, making it a good alternative for smaller areas, but still with plenty of taller options to make the most of vertical space. Pot-Grown Not just a wonderful choice for Christmas, a pot-grown tree has extra green credentials given that it can planted outside afterwards, providing an environmentally friendly choice. Once inside and decorated, this tree gives off a fresh and festive scent of natural pine, filling your home with the scent of Christmas. They look equally as good outside your home. Wind battery operated outdoor fairy lights for the final finishing touch. Each year, Christmas trees seem to go up earlier and earlier, but to keep
your tree looking its best through to the 25th, the best time to buy is the first or second weekend of December. The busiest day for real Christmas trees, dubbed ‘Bring Your Christmas Tree Home Day’, falls on the second Saturday in December, which falls on the 12th this year. ■ BRINGING YOUR TREE HOME An important first task - make sure you have emptied the car and have enough space to fit your tree, either inside or on the roof. To get your tree home safely, there are some simple steps to follow. Netting helps protect it for the journey home. Put a blanket down to protect your car’s interior Securely fasten your tree down with rope or cable ties and drive slowly and carefully home. Once you get home, take the tree out of the car and take out of the net as soon as possible. Then, remove a few inches from the base and stand in water. The sawing off of the stump should be done outside. Place it upright against an exterior wall or fence, out of direct sunlight if it is a warm winter’s day, as this will stop it
*Prices subject to change
NORDMANN FIR, STANDARD GRADE CUT (4-7FT) FROM £19.99
drying out. ■ HOW TO KEEP YOUR TREE LOOKING ITS BEST Treat your tree with TLC. Un-net your tree and leave it to stand for 24-hours before decorating so that the branches can settle. As exciting as it can be to get the tree instantly up and decorated, it will look much better if you give the branches a chance to drop into place after being unnetted, you’ll then be able to see were best to place hanging decs, lights and baubles. Opt for a stand with a water reservoir to prevent your tree from drying out and cover it with a Christmas tree skirt, which can help to achieve your overall look. Your tree will need approximately 1-2 litres a day, depending on the temperature of the room. Try to avoid putting your tree next to a radiator. Keep the room cool when it’s not in use. If you are bringing a pot-grown tree indoors, be mindful to keep the compost moist but not wet. If you find that your tree is too wide
FRASER FIR (4-5FT) FROM £29.99
for the space you planned it for, you can clip some of the larger branches lower down to make it fit. Save the cuttings, as these can make a lovely decorations, in vases or as part of a homemade wreath. ■ WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR REAL TREE AFTER CHRISTMAS Traditionally, the 5th or 6th January is when trees should be taken down and decorations packed away for another year, known as ‘Twelfth Night’. Dobbies encourage people to recycle their trees. Christmas tree recycling points are located at your local household waste recycling centres. If you opted for a pot-grown Christmas tree, remember to plant it as soon as possible in January so you can enjoy the following year. Select a spot that has well drained soil, sun, and enough space for the tree to sit comfortably. Then all you need to do is keep the tree watered and protected. Water and feed your pot grown tree regularly in its first year when
POT GROWN NORDMANN FIR (1FT-5FT) FROM £14.99 planted out in the garden. REBECCA STANTON, STYLIST AT DOBBIES GARDEN CENTRES, SHARES HER TOP FOUR CHRISTMAS TREE STYLING TIPS 1. LIGHT IT UP: No tree is complete without the twinkling of fairy lights, you will always need more than you think. Turn the lights on before moving to add baubles and decorations, to make sure you have good coverage all over. 3. LEVEL UP: To make a real statement, think big. Use extra-large baubles and clusters of smaller baubles together in your tree. Carefully place your larger baubles first to ensure your tree feels balanced then work around to add in smaller baubles and decorations. 4. BAUBLE PACKS: To instantly update your usual Christmas tree style pick up one of our mixed size bauble packs, we have a variety of shades to suit any colour palette. These baubles are great because not only do they instantly set the theme, they help to spread colour throughout your tree, think a base layer for you to build on top with your more special decorations. 5. A LAYER OF NATURE: Decorating your real tree doesn’t need to end at the baubles. Try adding some dried flowers to your tree to give that added layer of nature. You could use dried grasses, heather or eucalyptus to lay on the branches of your tree along with orange slices and cinnamon sticks to bring the smell of Christmas into your home. ■ Find out more at www.dobbies.com 31
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PERSONAL WELFARE This power gives your attorney the authority to make decisions regarding your healthcare and medical treatment. PROPERTY AND AFFAIRS
This power enables your attorney to deal with your bank accounts and your property. This includes decisions in relation to selling or renting your property, paying your bills, applying for benefits you are entitled to and all aspects of dealing with your bank accounts, savings and investments. 32
All work we undertake is at fixed fees: Single Property and Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney: £300 inclusive of VAT Double Property and Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney (suitable for couples): £420 inclusive of VAT Single Will: £180 inclusive of VAT Mirror Will: £240 inclusive of VAT It is imperative that specialist advice is taken in order to ensure that the power given accurately reflects your wishes. Call Crichton Wills Trusts & Probate on 01670 514772 and speak to a specialist adviser today who will be happy to discuss any concerns you may have and offers a free no obligation appointment in the comfort of your own home.
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EDU C ATIO N
The Coding Conundrum How to get kids learning to code By Kevin Shen
When my son Lee started secondary school this year, the subject he was most looking forward to studying was computer science. He wants to learn to code and create his own programs. But a few weeks in and he was starting to lose enthusiasm.The problem is that he hasn’t yet touched a computer, only partly because of COVID safety procedures. They learn about programming and how computers work, but it’s all on paper without a single line of code. I looked at his syllabus and frankly it’s not going to get much better for several months! Computer science courses at school talk about computers much more than they talk about programming. Kids desperate to code become frustrated and switch off from the subject. Fewer children in the UK are now progressing to become computer programmers. That’s unfortunate when it’s one of the most sought after skills in today’s workforce. There is a shortage of specialist computer science teachers. Most computer programmers work in industry, where salaries are higher. So children are taught by non-specialists who mostly do not have a software engineering background. Hence the syllabus becomes weighted to teaching general computing rather than coding. HOW DO WE TURN KIDS ON TO CODING? Most want to create the next top selling computer games, or a killer app for their phone. How 34
do we harness that and create the next generation of coders? Learning is currently going through big changes thanks to the pandemic. We can’t rely on having kids in a classroom with their teacher for the whole of a term at the moment because of various year groups or members of a bubble needing to selfisolate. But online learning opens up an almost infinite number of options for students. Web sites like Udemy or Coursera offer high-quality, well-taught courses in a vast range of topics. For Lee I found a Udemy course, tailored to his age range that taught coding through designing and building games (www.udemy.com/course/ learn-python-by-coding-games). It teaches Python, the same programming language that he’ll use at school, and indeed the one most schools use. All the lessons
are video, so there’s no reading long documents. Coding starts as soon as the programming software (which is free!) is installed. He can go at his own pace, take lessons whenever he wants, and replay explanations as many times as he wants until he fully understands. Personal help is just a few clicks away. Send a message and an answer comes back in about a day or so from the actual tutor. It’s just like having a private computer science teacher at a fraction of the cost - less than the cost of a single tutor session in fact! SO HOW’S HE DOING? The enthusiasm is back. He’s blasting through the lessons and loving it. At this rate he’ll finish the course this term which will take him to GCSE coding standard in just a few months. After that the sky’s the limit.
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REC IPE
CHICKEN Jambalaya A CAJUN-INSPIRED RICE POT, THAT IS PURE COMFORT FOOD FILLED TO THE BRIM WITH FLAVOUR
This veg-rich tart – drizzled with spinach pesto, is well worth the effort, and makes the perfect dinner
Ingredients ½ tsp white peppercorns ½ tsp black peppercorns 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp cayenne 1 tsp dried thyme 2 bay leaves ½ tsp salt 2 tbsp neutral oil 2 smoked pork sausages, ideally andouille, but fresh Polish smoked sausages, smoked chorizo or would also do, cut into thick slices 4 bone-in chicken thighs 1 onion, finely chopped 1 red pepper, finely chopped 1 celery stick, finely chopped 4 spring onions, chopped 3 garlic cloves, crushed 800ml chicken or pork stock 1 tsp Tabasco or other hot sauce, plus extra to serve 300g long grain rice 300g large raw prawns 36
Serves: 4-6 ■ Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 50 mins + 10 minS resting time. METHOD ➊ Turn the heat to high and in a small dry pan toast the peppercorns, paprika and cayenne. Grind them in a pestle and mortar until smooth. Add the thyme, bay leaves and salt then set one side. ➋ Lower the heat to medium and heat the oil in a lidded frying pan. Add the sausage slices and cook until golden. Remove to drain on kitchen paper. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, remove and place with the sausage. ➌ Add the onion, green pepper, the white parts of the spring onions, and garlic to the pan. Cook until soft and translucent, then stir in the spice mix and cook for
another couple of minutes. Return the chicken back into the pan and pour stock and Tabasco over everything. ➍ Lower the heat to allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 minutes until the chicken is tender. Stir in the rice and simmer for a further 10 minutes. Stir everything once then cover with a tight lid, reduce the heat and steam gently for 15 minutes. Remove the chicken. Add the prawns and sausage, stir again, then replace the lid and leave to rest for 10 minutes. ➎ Meanwhile, shred the chicken then fold into the rested jambalaya, season to taste with salt and more Tabasco. Garnish with the spring onion greens.
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CROSSWORD Across 1 Fifty percent (4) 4 Happened again (8) 8 Immobile (6) 9 ___ ___ to help out! (3,3) 10 Medicine (4) 11 Goodies given to guests at the end of birthday celebrations (5,3) 13 Unpleasant (13) 16 Saviours (8) 19 Curse (4) 20 Guarantee (6) 22 Inclined the head (6) 23 Weirdos (8) 24 Information (4) Down 2 Can be changed (9) 3 Tiredness (7) 4 Go over information again (5) 5 Bye! (7) 6 Attempt again (5) 7 Large flightless bird (3) 12 Plot of land for growing veg (9) 14 Item of warm underwear! (7) 15 Steered clear of (7) 17 Scale (5) 18 Ballads (5) 21 Craze (3)
SIGNWORD Equitable
People who do manual labour
Inclination Playthings
Plead Barrier
Admitted
In this crossword the clues are printed in what would normally be the ‘black’ squares. Follow the signs from each clue to find where the word should fit.
Untruth Goya (anag.)
Shaving device
Skidded
SOLUTIONS
Emanation
Boy
Ask (anag.)
Information (slang)
Change colour Beaker
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Y O Y O S
Grandmother (inf.)
B E D G A M A U G R E A N
Before (poetic)
W O R K M E N
Periphery
F A L L L I E R A Z N S L I D A N Y E D G E
Whichever
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FAS HIO N
Love Thy Tailor By Tracey Anderson
M
ost people think tailors are for rich gentlemen who frequent Saville Row, but tailoring is not as expensive as you might think, and it will save you money in the long run because if you love an item of clothing you're far less likely to replace it. At the lowprice end are simple fixes such as hemming a dress or trousers; at the more expensive end will be adjusting the shoulders of a jacket. Tailoring opens up possibilities because it allows you to buy high-quality second-hand items, or designer items on the sale rack, knowing you can get the fit altered. Most importantly it helps your clothes look better than they did when you bought them. A slight change in fit can make a huge difference. Unless you habitually buy 'bespoke', clothing is sized in a 'good enough' way to fit most people well enough. Tailoring is the difference between an item that fits 'well enough' and one that fits perfectly.
SIMPLE HEMMING You can get skirts, trousers, jeans, dresses, and too-long shirts hemmed. When you get rid of the excess fabric at the base, you get clean lines for a sleek look. Wash new jeans before you take them in though as they nearly always shrink a little in the wash. SHORTENING SHOULDER STRAPS The way the shoulders fit is crucial to making an item look nice overall. If the shoulder straps on a shirt or dress won’t stay up, get them shortened. Anything sleeveless, or with straps is typically easy to alter. ZIP REPLACEMENT Buy exactly what you want from the haberdashery section of a fabric store and ask the tailor to replace it. TAKING IN The straight seams that run down the sides of shirts and dresses are easy to take in. A common
“Tailoring opens up possibilities because it allows you to buy high-quality second-hand items, or designer items on the sale rack, knowing you can get the fit altered.”
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alteration to blouses and dress shirts is darting, a process where extra seams are placed in the back or sides of a shirt to remove baggy fabric. If you find that you frequently have to size up a blouse to fit your chest properly - leaving extra fabric around your waist darting is an inexpensive way to reshape the garment. Sleeves also tend to have straight seams running down their lengths, which a tailor can easily take in. The same works for trousers that are too loose in the leg. There is a limit though: if something is several sizes too big the alterations will throw the proportions out of balance, but a size or two is doable. WHEN SHOPPING: Clothing sizing for women is so variable as to be useless. Try things on, find the best fit, then have them tailored. Buy clothes that fit the biggest or widest part of your body, and then have them tailored down. If you are between sizes, size up and tailor down. Ask for a recommendation. If you admire the way a friend dresses, they may well have a tailor and will be flattered that you asked. Highend and designer shops may be able to recommend tailors too.
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FAS HIO N
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BOOKS
A Good Read
By Willow Coby
ME BEFORE YOU by Jojo Moyes 26-year-old Lou Clark still lives with her parents in the quiet market town she grew up in. Almost deserted in the winter the town’s one draw is an old castle and when we meet Lou, she works in the local tea shop serving the coach loads of tourists who come to visit. With a quirky dress sense Lou never really feels as if she fits in and as a teenager longed to travel the world. However, circumstances meant that she could never bring herself to leave. After losing her job she reluctantly takes a job caring for Will, a young quadriplegic man injured in a motorcycle accident several years earlier. She is told the job is just for 6 months and despite a rough start she decides to stick it out and soon an unlikely bond develops between Lou and Will. A romantic novel this also deals with the sensitive issue of disability and the descriptions of Will’s day to day life are well-written with brutal honesty and little sensationalism. Things take a darker turn when Lou learns the reason why her contract is only to be for 6 months and she sets out to bring Will new experiences and remind him of the simple joys of life: not easy for a wheelchair bound man whose ideal way to pass the time before his accident was skydiving or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. As a reader you are drawn into the lives of these characters and the development of their relationship is believable. In the hands of the wrong writer this plot line could turn out to be very twee and cliché but Moyes does not fall into this trap. The resulting novel is engaging, difficult to put down and will lead you to appreciate the small wonders of life.
SALVAGE THE BONES by Jesmyn Ward It was a storm that made headlines around the world. In August 2005 Katrina hit the Louisiana coast causing great loss of life and destruction to New Orleans and the surrounding area. This awardwinning novel, set over a period of 12 days, tells the story of the Batiste family who live in the fictional town of Bois Sauvage. Esch is 15 years old and lives with her three brothers and their father. Isolated from the rest of the small town due to the location of their house, they live in extreme 46
poverty, with a largely absent father who, seven years after the death of his wife, still relies on drink to get through the day. So, with the news of a category 5 storm is about to hit they begin to prepare what they can and stockpile a small amount of food. Each chapter is one day in the build up to the storm. Randall, the eldest is trying to do what he can to hold his family together. Skeetah is preoccupied with his pit-bull fighting dog, China, who has just given birth to puppies. Junior, the youngest, is trying to hold his own against his older brothers. And Esch has just discovered that she is pregnant. A captivating story with engaging characters, immerses you in their world, illustrated by a touch of Greek mythology thanks to a book that Esch (the narrator) is reading for school. The penultimate chapter will have your heart racing but ultimately this is the story of family love that survives despite the poverty and deprivation.
THE FAULT IN OUR STARS by John Green The Fault in Our Stars is the hugely successful teen novel exploring the impact of teenage cancer on the lives of two individuals. 16-year-old Hazel has cancer and is, reluctantly, convinced by her parents to attend a support group for others in her situation. Amongst the other patients there is Augustus, a 17-year-old boy who lost a leg to cancer. The two begin talking and agree to read each other’s favourite books. Hazel’s book is a novel by a Dutch writer about a young girl with cancer: Hazel sees many parallels to her own life here. Augustus is angry after reading the book and discovering that it doesn’t have a nicely wrapped up ending. There is no conclusion, no neat package, no ending: happy or otherwise. Of course, life has an ending, but it often isn’t happy or neatly wrapped up. Hazel becomes aware of her fears about getting close to others. She is afraid that when she dies it will hurt them, and this naturally affects her relationship with Augustus. This moving novel deals with issues that most of its teen readers won’t have yet faced in their lives. As a teenager you often feel immortal. You feel as if life is stretching out ahead of you Hazel and Augustus, along with the other young people at the support group view life differently. There is no expectation that everyone will make it to the next meeting. No one is immortal. This novel stays with you long after the closing paragraph.
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Bespoke Kitchen with choice of stone worktop and coordinated cabinetry Integrated BOSCH Kitchen appliances Stunning large living rooms with vaulted ceilings, available on certain plots Fully tiled Villeroy and Boch bathroom and ensuite Oak internal doors n Three bedrooms Flooring throughout n Farrow and Ball colour scheme Double Garages with electric doors n Landscaping Private gated development n Freehold and 10 year structural warranty
PRICES FROM £445,000 COMPLETION FROM EARLY 2021 For a sales brochure or more information Call: 01670 432 602 Email: info@altoriadevelopment.co.uk Visit: www.altoriadevelopment.co.uk
0191 251 3757
Winter Windows WITH WOW from Contour Blinds
Call us or visit our showrooms at 33 Claremont Crescent, Whitley Bay NE26 3HL or Unit 6a, North Tyne Industrial Estate, Whitley Road, Benton NE12 9SZ (opposite Asda).
See online for our special offers
www.contourblinds.com
