select ISSUE 22
AUTUMN 2021
selectmagazinene.co.uk
North Sea Weekender New Festival Hits The Coast
Fancy a Break?
A UK coach trip with United Group Travel could be just the ticket
Made in the North East
Enhance your view with Contour Blinds
SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 1
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Bay Podiatry 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.
Professional Footcare
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: Cotton Traders
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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Biomechanical Assessment • Nail Surgery • Sports Massage
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0191 252 4441
www.baypodiatry.co.uk
PERSONAL, PROFESSIONAL EYE CARE at Stevens Optical Group - Your independent local opticians Whether you need an eye examination, are thinking about trying contact lenses, are concerned about your children's eyesight or would like to choose a new pair of glasses or sunglasses, we're only too pleased to assist. With local family owned practices in Whitley Bay and Killingworth, we have a wide range of frames to choose from including many designer brands.
New patients welcome - call us today! Pickard Opticians, 11 Ilfracombe Gardens,Whitley Bay NE26 3ND Tel: 0191 252 8975 | Open: Monday - Friday 9.00am- 1.00pm, 2.00pm - 5.30pm Stevens Optical Group, Unit 22 The Killingworth Centre, Killingworth NE12 6YT Tel: 0191 268 1317 | Open: Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm
www.stevensopticians.co.uk SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 5
LO C A L N E W S
North Sea Weekender
Brand New Festival Hits The North Tyneside Coast in October After the past 18 months, and the cancellation of many popular events such as Mouth of the Tyne, it’s nice to have a brand new festival to look forward to. Taking place between 8th-10th of October, North Tyneside’s coast plays host to the first North Sea Weekender (WKNDR), a big weekend of watersports, pop-up food and drink and very special one-off live music events. The North Sea Weekender will feature the Tynemouth Surf Open, organised by Tynemouth Surf Co, alongside stand-up paddle board activities from CBK Adventures and Northern SUP Racing. Paddle board activities include an XL SUP Team Challenge, freestyle challenge and race events - including Technical, Distance, K9, Freestyle and Tandem. In the water, the attention is primarily focused on Tynemouth Longsands and Cullercoats Bay. Tynemouth Surf Co. will be hosting various contests for men, women and children. Whilst in Cullercoats you can get involved in the Mega SUP Derby, SUP Intro, Paddlers Village and various race disciplines - all hosted by CBK Adventures and Northern SUP. Keep an eye out on social media for more events that could pop up as we get closer to the weekend. On dry land there will be special one-off music concerts taking place at Tynemouth’s Surf Café and Watch House Museum, with the first shows announced as Ben Ottewell and Heidi Curtis. Gomez frontman Ben Ottewell plays an intimate show in a truly amazing place, the Watch House Museum in Tynemouth, home to the Volunteer Life Brigade, on Saturday 9 October. Heidi Curtis is a 19 year old singer-songwriter from North Shields. After getting a number of festival shows under her belt in 2021, and supporting Sam
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Fender at various venues around the UK, she'll captivate audiences with her powerful vocals and unique style of melody-driven rock, at Tynemouth's Surf Cafe on Friday 8 October. There will also be food and drink pop-ups along the coast, and more details of events and activities will be announced soon. North Tyneside has an array of coastal lifestyle businesses and organisations which the festival hopes to highlight throughout the month of October. Most will be open all weekend so, if you are popping down, why not browse some of the fantastic coastal business right on our doorstep. Follow the event on social media – NorthSeaWKNDR on Facebook and @northseaweekender on Instagram. Details of tickets for the one off events, and any new activities and food and drink vendors will be constantly updated on these platforms.
select selectmagazinen
ISSUE 21
SUMMER 2021
ASPIRE HEALTH & FITNESS Banish those extra lockdown newly pounds at Morpeth's refurbished gym
autumn 2021
ISSUE 19
e.co.uk
N 2020 ISSUE 18 AUTUM
’s On What GOSFORTH
A Decade of Care Bluebird Care Newcastle
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AT CIVIC THEATRE
Live Music, Film & Theatre return visitors back again Ready to welcome to Gosforth
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Your loft and garage hold the key to extra space in your home
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LO C A L N E W S
EXPANSION TO LOCAL INDEPENDENT CINEMA MEANS EVEN MORE CHOICE! Right in the heart of Whitley Bay, the Jam Jar Cinema offers the best in local, friendly, affordable, inclusive and diverse cinema, showing a good range of new releases and old classics. Following their expansion in 2019, Jam Jar Cinema now boasts three screens, two bar areas and a lift that makes it accessible for all. While the bigger, multiplex cinemas concentrate on their screens, seats and sound, Jam Jar take these high standards as a given. Instead they prefer to focus their highly trained staff, maintaining excellent customer service and ensuring complete accessibility for all. They believe a trip to the cinema is unique. It's a delight, a treat and a pleasure - nothing else can beat it for sheer escapism and sense of wonder. It can transport you from the daily chores and routine to a different realm, place, time or even galaxy. The name Jam Jar Cinema is a nod to historic times, where you used to be able to get into the cinema at a discounted rate, or for 8 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
free, on production of a Jam Jar. This originated in North Tyneside and continued until the 1970’s when the value of glass dropped. By this time it had spread to cinemas all over the country, typically in areas of heavy industry: Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield and Glasgow; where it was known as J’eely Jar Cinema. But it started here in North Tyneside, so what better name for a community cinema than ... Jam Jar Cinema! New releases being screened at Jam Jar this month include Respect, Herself, The Many Saints of Newark (a prequel to the multi award winning TV series The Sopranos), Oasis Knebworth 1996, as well as No Time To Die – the long awaited new Bond film. And all of this is available at the centre of Whitley Bay! The Jam
Jar Cinema means no transport headaches, no over-priced food and a relaxed, cosy, inviting bar to unwind in. They offer a cosy hug rather than a corporate handshake. Jam jar always have friendly faces to welcome you - not a soulless machine on the wall. Finally, just like you, Jam Jar staff are moviefanatics - they eat, drink, think film. The team can't wait to see the latest flick and they love choosing the best of what's to come for our community to enjoy. Jam Jar are also doing everything they can to ensure that you are welcomed to a safe, socially distanced and enjoyable cinema experience. If you have any specific questions then you can contact them at info@ jamjarcinema.com, but they do have a dedicated Covid page on their website, with a Covid-19 FAQ's section, which you can check out first, just in case they've already answered your question. 18-24 Park Avenue, Whitley Bay NE26 1DG jamjarcinema.com
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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 now taking commissions for the painting of customers furniture.
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?
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10% OFF ON PRODUCTION OF THIS ADVERT SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 9
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Discover the Benefits of Reflexology LIFE Holisitc Therapies are offering a 25% discount on Relexology treatments throughout October to help raise awareness about some of the health and wellbeing benefits of this popular therapy. With its roots dating back more than four millennia, reflexology is based on the principle that special ‘reflex’ points found on the soles, tops and sides of the feet correspond to different areas of the body. In this way, the feet can be seen as a ‘map’ of the whole body. While the feet are the most common part of the body treated during a reflexology treatment, reflex points can also be found on the hands, ears and face. By applying specialised massage techniques to the reflex points, the aim of a reflexology treatment is to help restore balance to the body naturally and improve general wellbeing. As well as helping to aid relaxation and improve sleep, a survey of FHT reflexologists found that 71% of clients regularly use reflexology to support them
with long-term health conditions including stress and anxiety, depression, joint and mobility issues, and pain. LIFE Holistic Therapies offer a sacred space where you can relax and enjoy powerful, healing massage therapies. With over 17 years experience, it is ‘the’ place to look for all your specialised alternative therapy needs, providing first-class massage treatments including: Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Energy Work, and Indian Head Massage, helping relieve stress related conditions such as back pain, fatigue, muscular aches and pains, problems with sleep, headaches, mood disorders, joint mobility and flexibility, digestive issues and more! ▪ To save 25% on a reflexology treatment during October contact: LIFE Holistic Therapies, Tel: 07703 330662 www.lifeholistictherapies.co.uk Social media: @lifeholistictherapies
Treat your feet
SAVE 25% ON A REFLEXOLOGY TREATMENT throughout October at LIFE Holistic Therapies Help relieve stress related conditions such as: back pain, fatigue, muscular aches, sleep problems, digestive issues, headaches...and more! Member of The Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) Learn more at fht.org.uk
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR CONTACT US USING THE DETAILS BELOW
07703 330662 10 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
@lifeholistictherapies www.lifeholistictherapies.co.uk
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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@buythekilo SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 11
ADVERTISING FEATURE
ALTERNATIVE TO DOG OWNERSHIP COULD AID A HEALTHY RETIREMENT Looking to stay fit and active in retirement? The solution could have four paws and a waggy tail! With scientific studies showing that the company of a dog can reduce stress and increase physical activity and social interaction, there’s a lot to be said for spending time with a canine. However, dog ownership is a huge long-term commitment, both emotionally and financially. With the average lifespan of a dog being approximately twelve years, many people are discouraged from taking on such a responsibility. Barking Mad Northumberland offers a part-time alternative to dog ownership, where you can experience all the benefits without the full-time responsibility. ‘Host families’ become temporary companions for dogs whose owners are on holiday. Below, we look at the benefits they can experience:
GET FIT WITH FIDO Dogs are great personal trainers, encouraging us to exercise and get out more. Perhaps you love walking but are you as keen to get outdoors when it’s wet or cold? There is no greater motivator than a dog who’s eager to go for a walk – it’s impossible to resist those puppy-dog eyes! Research from St. Andrews University showed that dog owners were 12% more physically active than people who did not own a dog. A HEALTHIER LIFE WITH A DOG As well as helping lower blood pressure by encouraging us to exercise more, dogs can also help in another way and it’s all down to science! A release of the hormone oxytocin is triggered when you stroke a dog, particularly if you look into their eyes. This surge of oxytocin can lower blood pressure, ward off depression and boost immunity. A Swedish study of 3.4 million people also makes the claim: “In a nationwide population-based study with 12 years of follow-up, we show that dog ownership is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease in single households.”
HOUNDS CAN MAKE YOU HAPPIER Patting, stroking and walking dogs can help people to feel more relaxed and less anxious. This makes a huge difference to emotional and physical well-being. Dogs also have a huge capacity for unconditional love which can’t fail to make you feel happier! No matter how bad your day has been, a dog will always greet you with a waggy tail. CARING FOR CANINES CAN EASE SOCIAL ISOLATION Dogs can be a real catalyst for social relationships in neighbourhood settings. When you’re walking a dog, it really does break the ice with fellow dog carers/owners, as well as getting you out of the house in the first place. Barking Mad host families also benefit from joining a local community of dog loving individuals, with regular events such as group walks and meals out. Retired Financial Adviser, Helen, and retired Engineer/Gas Fitter, Steve, have hosted for Barking Mad since 2015, they said: “Being holiday hosts with Barking Mad gives us all the pleasure of having a dog with none of the cost, worries or being tied to home. It
enriches our lives. We also feel that as we get older, we don’t want to leave a dog that might have to be placed in a rescue centre if we were no longer fit to look after it. It’s amazing how much pleasure you can get from these four-legged bundles of fun! Each dog is different, so be patient and you’ll soon learn their likes and dislikes. Dog sitting is also a great way to meet like-minded people who walk their own dogs.”
HOW DOES IT WORK? Barbara Frater & Caroline Bradshaw of Barking Mad Northumberland explain, “Our fabulous doggy holiday hosts are generally active retired people or home workers, who enjoy having a dog to stay occasionally. We carefully match each dog to the host’s environment and circumstances to make it a great experience for everyone. Friendly dogs arrive to stay for a weekend, a week or two, with everything they need, such as food, bedding and toys, all provided. Transport, insurance and administration are taken care of by ourselves. We are on call 24/7 and provide full support and guidance. If you have a secure outside space, plenty of time to spare (when it’s convenient for you) and are a real dog lover, we’d love to hear from you.”
If you would like to find out more about becoming a Barking Mad host, you can call Barbara or Caroline on 01665 575981, email northumberland@barkingmad.uk.com or visit www.barkingmad.uk.com/become-a-dog-sitter 12 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
Meet the Vet Team at Morpeth
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We are now accepting new clients
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Steph
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Fra nce s - Ow ner/D ire cto
Contact us for an appointment today Vets4Pets Morpeth Inside Pets At Home, Stanley Terrace, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 1PA
Call: 01670 500 670 or visit: vets4pets.com/morpeth
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
www.hills-landscapes.com
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 14
info@hills-landscapes.com
DAVID ROBSON PAINTER & DECORATOR
FREE ESTIMATES
INTERIOR & EXTERIOR DECORATING Reliable & professional service
Tel: 07767 297505 13 Carolyn Crescent, Whitley Bay, NE26 3ED
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TV WALL-MOUNT INSTALLATIONS SERVICES
All types of brackets available Optional finish, designer trunking, cables hidden FREE site survey and advice given
Improve your digital signal. Upgrade to a Vision Pro Log Periodic Aerial for a balanced signal. • TV aerials supplied & installed
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or visit us online at: www.tvsdigital.co.uk LOCAL ENGINEERS SERVING THE NORTH EAST SINCE 1991
SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 15
FAS HIO N
C O V E R
U P
From the practical shacket to the go-to puffer, here are nine of the best coats to take you through autumn. 8.
1.
7. 2.
Longline Wax Jacket | £74 | Cotton Traders
6.
3. 4.
5.
1. Stone Longline Puffer Coat | £48 | Tu Clothing 2. Warkworth Jacket | £229 | Barbour 3. Thea Plain Shacket in Soft Green | £79 | FatFace 4. Alice Short Faux Fur Coat | £85 | Fat Face 5. Navy Callie Textured Peacoat | £80 | White Stuff 6. Khaki Onion Quilt Padded Longline Coat | £25 | Primark 7. Charlotte Check Coat | £189 | FatFace 8. Longline Taupe Coat | £35 | Primark 16
Kirsha Knowles Hair & Beauty
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Next to Sainsburys - Lots of FREE Parking
17
E N TE RTAIN M E N T
FILM REVIEWS NO TIME TO DIE Genres: Action, Adventure, Thriller Age Rating: PG 13 Release date: 30th September
Bond is back. This time, Daniel Craig’s fifth ‘007’ movie arrives rather late due to multiple postponements caused by a global health crisis. ‘No Time to Die’ is the 25th instalment in the ‘James Bond’ film franchise. Craig himself has said this will be his final Bond film, which is directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga from a screenplay by Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, Fukunaga, and ‘Fleebag’ actor-writer Phoebe Waller-Bridge. Five years after capturing supervillain Ernst Stavro Blofeld, James Bond (Daniel Craig) is now a retired MI6 agent, leading a normal life in Jamaica. His peace of mind is ruined when his CIA friend Felix Leiter (Jeffrey Wright) turns up asking for help. He is tasked with finding a missing scientist, Valdo Obruchev (David Dencik). His rescue mission leads him to the discovery of a terrorist plot that could destroy the world. ‘No Time to Die’ is what Daniel Craig deserves to end his Bond era. Craig saw no small amount of negative vitriol thrown at him when he was cast as agent 007, and this film is his ultimate way of proving the haters wrong. What makes Craig’s performance so good is he is able to show multiple sides of the legendary spy character. The layers in this movie are interesting as they give each character, even the minor ones, unique traits. The film also has a myriad of brutal, but not over-the-top, action sequences. Every move is intricately set up and the editing does justice to the beautiful fight choreography. The production team put extra attention on the sound design as it becomes a highlight, too. ‘No Time to Die’ is set for release on 30th September in the UK .
THE MANY SAINTS OF NEWARK
Genres: Crime, Drama Age Rating: 18 Release date: October 22nd, 2021 ‘The Many Saints of Newark’ is set in the explosive 1960s, the era of the Newark riots, when the AfricanAmerican and Italian communities are often at each other’s throats. But among the gangsters within each group, the dangerous rivalry becomes especially lethal. It is the prequel to the award-winning HBO crime drama series ‘The Sopranos’, where the audience will take a look at the formative years of the infamous New Jersey gangster,
Tony Soprano. But the film will revolve more around Dickie Moltsanti, a father of Christopher Moltisanti who Tony took as a nephew when he got older. The movie is titled ‘The Many Saints of Newark’ since Molti Santi translates to “many saints” in English. The listed casts are Alessandro Nivola as Dicki Moltisanti, Jon Bernthal as Giovanni “Johnny Boy” Soprano, Corey Stoll as Junior Soprano, Michael Gandolfini as Tony Soprano, Billy Magnussen as Paulie “Walnuts” Gualtier, John Magaro as Silvio Dante, as well as other notable actors, such as Michela De Rossi, Ray Liotta, Vera Farmiga and Leslie Odom Jr. Alan Taylor was appointed to direct the movie, as he already experienced directing several episodes of The Sopranos. Meanwhile, David Chase and Lawrence Konner who helped write the series are the ones to also write this movie. The film will come to UK theatres on October 22nd.
RON’S GONE WRONG
Genres: Animated, Comedy, Family, Science Fiction Age Rating: PG Release date: October 22nd, 2021 ‘Ron’s Gone Wrong’ takes the audience to witness the life of Barney, an awkward middle schooler who befriends his digital friend named Ron. ‘Ron’s Gone Wrong’ takes the audience to witness the life of Barney, an awkward middle schooler who befriends his digital friend named Ron. Ron is a pod-sized robot that can walk, talk, and function like humans. Being the curious teenager that he is, Barney sees a friend figure in Ron, at least until it malfunctions. Only then he realizes what the meaning of friendship in the digital era truly is. Ron is voiced by Jack Dylan Grazer, a seventeen years old actor who recently made his way to popular child and teenager movies. He has voiced Alberto Scorfano from Pixar’s ‘Luca’ and played Eddie Kaspbrak in the Horror movie ‘It’. On the other hand, the tiny robot is voiced by comedian and actor Zach Galifianakis. Despite being known for his role in an adult comedy ‘The Hangover’ as Alan, he is also a recurring voice actor in animated movies such as Humpty Dumpty in ‘Puss in the Boots’ and Joker in ‘The Lego Batman’. Among the cast members are also Ed Helms, Rob Delaney, Justice Smith, and British actress Olivia Colman. 20th Century Studios partnered with Locksmith animation to make this computer-animated science-fiction comedy. The animation company is based in London, England, and claims to be the only UK animation company with high-end technology. This project will be its first movie. Jean Philippe Vine directed the movie together with Sarah Smith, with a screenplay written by Smith and Peter Baynham.
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
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WELCOME TO ENERGYZE where your Skin Care is as individual as you. Energyze aims to provide quality treatments, tailored specifically to your needs in a safe environment where you can relax, have some precious time out and leave feeling on top of the world.
TREATMENTS: • Dermaplaning • Microdermabrasion • Micro-needling • Rejuvenating Holistic Facial
• LED Light Therapy • Reflexology • Eve Taylor Facials • Skin Peels
I look forward to welcoming you to my relaxing studio in Bedlington, Northumberland which has been purpose built for one to one consultations. The area is COVID19 secure to provide a safe environment for your treatments.
Book direct via
www.energyze.net Facebook: Energyze: Bespoke Holistic Skincare | Tel: 07861 784445 SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 19
T E C H N O LO GY
TECHY TIPS TO MAKE LIFE EASIER By Tom Hancock
1
Put your USB drive in the right way the first time
Why do we get it wrong on the first try so often? Get it right first time, every time. Here's the secret: Grab any USB cable sitting around your house. Find the symbol on one side? It’s not just for decoration. That symbol will point up if you’re plugging in horizontally and if you're plugging a cable vertically, the USB symbol will face you.
2
Reopen a closed browser tab
It happens all the time. You have a dozen tabs open in your browser and accidentally close the wrong one. I know you can open up your browser’s history and reopen the tab from there, but did you know you can do it with a couple of keystrokes. Hit Ctrl+Shift+T on your PC or Command+Shift+T on your Mac to automatically reopen the tab you just closed.
3
Share a YouTube video at a precise point
You find a brilliant YouTube video but the bit you really want to share is 3 minutes and 24 seconds in. If you want to share it at that exact point, you can get a link
that takes people directly to the moment. Simply click the Share button below the video. Look for a little box below the link. This automatically displays the time at which you currently have the video stopped. You can stick with this time or pick any time you like. Then when you copy the link and share it, whoever views the link will view it from point you chose.
4
Search WhatsApp chats
WhatsApp chats can be fast-moving, and messages accumulate over time. When you want to find the address of the party, or the joke someone told you two weeks ago, you don’t have to scan back through every conversation, you can search for it. From the Chats tab in WhatsApp, swipe down to show the Search bar.Type the word or phrase you’re looking for in the Search field. Tap a result to open that message in the chat. On Android, Open WhatsApp, Tap Search, Type the word or phrase you’re looking for in the Search field, then tap a result to open that message in the chat.
PUZZLE CHALLENGE - TOTALISER Boost your mental agility against the clock. Start with the number on the left and follow the instructions as you go across. Within the 30-second time limit beginners should complete the Level One challenge, intermediate players Level Two and advanced players Level Three. LEVEL ONE
3
ANSWER
+5
x2
-4
TIMES ITSELF
➥
➥
➥
➥
➥ 1/3
-100 ÷2 ➥
1/2
OF THIS
-4
+9
➥
➥
➥
LEVEL TWO
12
ANSWER
x3
+7
-17
-5
OF THIS
+5 x1.5 ÷6 +102
➥
➥
➥
➥
➥
➥
➥
➥
➥
÷13.5 +28
5/6
LEVEL THREE
49
ANSWER
√
OF THIS
➥
+69 ÷8
x4 +412
60%
➥
➥
➥
➥
➥
OF THIS
➥
➥
OF THIS
➥
Solution: Level One: 16 Level Two: 105 Level Three: 40 20 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
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Inspirational flooring for your home
Book your free measure, advice and quotation service or simply request an appointment now.
Call us on 01670 517881 or visit www.castlecarpets.co.uk SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 21
ADVERTISING FEATURE
GIVE SOMEONE POWER OF ATTORNEY… BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE Lasting Powers of Attorney are invaluable documents as part of the overall planning of your estate as managing your financial affairs can become more difficult as you get older. If a person is unable to manage their affairs due to mental incapacity and they have not made a valid Enduring or Lasting Power of Attorney, their assets will be frozen as no one (including their spouse and children) has the authority to deal with them. At this point someone will need to apply to the Court of Protection to be appointed as the person’s Deputy. The Court will then authorize the Deputy to deal with the person’s affairs in a certain manner. This is a very time consuming (around 6 months) and expensive (in the region of £1,750) process. This situation can be simply avoided through the making of a Lasting Power of Attorney. By making a Lasting Power of Attorney you can decide whom you would like to manage your affairs in the event that you are unable to do so either due to physical or mental incapacity. There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney that can be made, one dealing with your property and financial affairs and the other dealing with your personal welfare.
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. 22 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
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.
55 Beaumont Court, Pegswood, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 1BF
Price of Family Trust £1,800 (inc. VAT)
PUZZLE CHALLENGE
CROSSWORD Across 7 Fakes, falsifies (8) 8 Bar joining two wheels (4) 9 Type of breakfast cereal (6) 10 Picture (5) 11 The round before the final (4) 12 Interloper, stranger (8) 14 Jam-filled bun (8) 18 Greasy film on water (4) 20 Shroud (5) 22 Build again (6) 23 Layer (4) 24 Personal views (8) Down 1 Excite, entice (6) 2 Hoarding (8) 3 Deep violet blue (6) 4 Help (6) 5 Molten fluid rock (4) 6 Accuse, assert (6) 13 Sleeplessness (8) 15 Rare, intricate flower (6) 16 Of little breadth (6) 17 Root vegetable (6) 19 Cruel (6) 21 Diversify, change (4)
MINDBENDERS Can you find the hidden phrases?
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 mathematical terms in the grid?
add algebra angle brackets cube decimal difference differentiate divide equation estimate evaluate expression factorise
factors fraction graph integrate median mode power quadratic range rounding square subtract surd term
KAKURO
Fill in the blank squares in the grid with numbers so that each horizontal or vertical line adds up to the total given in the box either to the left or above it.
You can use the numbers 1 to 9, but may not use the same number more than once in any run. The number may be used again, however, in the same row or column but as part of another run.
Horizontal totals are given in the top right corners of the shaded boxes; vertical totals in the bottom left corners.
2
11
9 2
4
1
1
3
5
7 3
13
9
9
8
17
8 7
4
9 17
1
29
5
9
8
1
6
7 8
16
9
5
8
2
4
1
15
9
13 27
5
12
6 7
16
9 14
13
KAKURO
WORDSEARCH
SUDOKU
1. Safety in numbers 2. Run for cover 3. Go up in smoke
MINDBENDER
SOLUTIONS
WORDSEARCH
Please mention Select Magazine when responding to adverts SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 25
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Could German be the language for you? BY SUSANNE WARDLE, DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER OF THE GERMAN TEACHER
W
hether you have always wanted to learn a new language or refresh your language from school, German is a great choice for any English speaker. Undeniably German is similar to English, as you say the letters you see and it is very structured. Whether you decide to learn German or any other language, here are the top tips: •
•
•
•
Firstly, pick a language which is relevant to you. So, it might be your holiday destination, or you might have friends who are native speakers or speak the language well. Do you need the language for work or will it further your career? Did you enjoy the language at school and wished you kept it up? Do you enjoy German films, books, music or composers? Whatever your reason, if the language is relevant to you, you will put the work in to learn it! Secondly, you could learn a language with a partner, friend, group or your children? It is fun to learn together and apart from practising, you can correct and challenge each other. Expect challenges on the way and have realistic expectations. It is unlikely that you will achieve fluency within a few months unless you have some prior knowledge. Your life will get busy at times and your language learning might not be your priority. Be clear in your goal settings and convey this to your language teacher! What do you want to get out of your language learning? Any professional language teacher will have that conversation with you and tailor the lesson to your needs.
• •
Make a commitment to learning! 10 minutes of vocabulary learning a day is better than 1 hour in 7 days. Complete the set homework! Have fun with the language: Listen to songs, label your house with post-its, write your shopping list in German, try your German out on friends and on holiday and watch German language films with subtitles. BENEFITS OF LEARNING A LANGUAGE
• • • • • •
It opens your world to another way of thinking while gaining a deeper understanding of your own culture. Languages let you connect you with different people and a different culture and limit barriers between people. Foreign languages improve your analytical and problem-solving skills. A foreign language opens the door to art, music, dance, fashion, cuisine, film, philosophy, science. It undoubtedly has health benefits, as it sharpens your memory and helps to prevent the onset of dementia. Learning a language is fun and gives you a sense of achievement.
Above all, there is no age limit and you might surprise yourself. Absolutely consider German as an option. It has a lot to offer and is easier than you think! ■ For more information on native 1 to 1 tuition, classes and more visit www.germanteacher.uk
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SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 27
A D V E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E
Fancy a Break?
Right now we all need something to look forward to, and a UK coach break could be just the ticket! Local coach tourism experts Graham Wright and John Hindhaugh have started their own coach tour company and are taking bookings now. Graham explains more... John and I have worked in the coach tourism industry as drivers for many years, the last few spent as tour drivers for the same local North East coach holiday company, until the Global pandemic had a catastrophic effect on our industry, with many companies going out of business. Over the years, on our numerous tours both abroad and in the UK, we have built up a fantastic relationship with many of our passengers, and are lucky to call many of them friends. They really appreciated our experience and knowledge of the places we visited, to the extent that a lot of passengers started asking who the driver would be before they actually booked a tour with the company. It was during a conversation with one of our friends that the question was asked about starting our own company doing our own holidays, so here we are. We have put all our years’ experience and knowledge to good use while planning our exclusive tours. All the
tours are exceptional value for money, and we only select the best-established quality hotels, that are generally either known to us, or we have previously used before. The specific day trips on each tour are also carefully created, all based on our knowledge as well as any relevant previous customer feedback and suggestions to ensure they are always enjoyed. The trips do not leave the hotel too early, or return too late, so as to allow everyone to make full use of the facilities of the chosen hotel. Guaranteed free time as well as entertainment are also key factors that we take into account to try and make a tour as pleasurable an experience possible. In such a short space of time, from the initial concept, we have managed to make massive progress. During this current difficult time we all need something to look forward to, and we currently have a wide range of fantastic tours in Great Britain. Our advert on the opposite page shows you what’s on offer, with more to follow! You can rest assured that you can book with confidence with us. We have been granted a COVID-19 Industry Standard Certificate which shows government and industry COVID-19 guidelines are followed. Plus, if your tour is cancelled due to the COVID restrictions, you will receive a full refund. We look forward to welcoming you aboard! ■ United Group Travel Ltd Tel: 01670 632460 / 07957 141654 www.unitedgrouptravel.com Facebook: United Group Travel Ltd E mail: graham.john.unitedgrouptravel@gmail.com Company no. 13052351
28 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
John & Graham look forward to welcoming you aboard!
£30
DEPOSIT PER PERSO SECURES YO N UR BOOKING
2021- 2022 COACH TOURS Lest We Forget - 29th October
4day DBB £295pp* LIMITED AVAILABILITY
Christmas Markets/Shopper - 19th November Turkey & Tinsel - Scarborough - 11
th
TWIXMAS - 27th December
4 day DBB £269pp* LIMITED AVAILABILITY
December 5 days DBB £299pp
4 days DBB £275pp
All inclusive BURNS - 6th January ‘22
5 days DBB £325pp*
Royal Victoria Snowdonia - 7th February ‘22
Trio of Snowdrops - 21st February ‘22
5 days DBB £299 pp
FREE BAR PACKAGE!
5 days DBB £364
* plus single room supplement Visit our website or call us for more tours or information
www.unitedgrouptravel.com 01670 632 460 \ 07957 141 654
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Davidsons of Morpeth
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01670 512 115 www.davidsonsofmorpeth.co.uk
SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 31
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Enjoy your conservatory all year round If you’re fed up with your conservatory being either freezing cold or blistering hot. Here, Thermos Roof explain how they have the answer Conservatories are a fantastic space to enjoy whilst looking out onto your garden, they are bright, spacious and give you a great sense of closeness to the outdoors. However, as most conservatory owners will know, whilst they bring all of those benefits, it is usually short lived and can only be enjoyed for two or three months of the year, the rest of those months being either freezing cold or blisteringly hot. At Thermos Roof, we have been insulating conservatory roofs since 2005 for two main reasons, firstly to increase its insulating performance and secondly to enhance its internal aesthetic appearance. Experience will have shown you that in the winter as soon as you open the door the heat is sucked out of your room into the conservatory and, during the summer, it becomes a dazzling sauna that’s so hot you need a fan to cool you down. At Thermos Roof we can transform your conservatory from a room you barely use into a room that you can enjoy all year round, because the temperature is comfortable and constant, you will even be able to watch TV or use a computer without sunglasses. What is most impressive is that we can do this all in one day! With no mess! We retain your existing polycarbonate or glass roof and insulate it from the inside, finishing it in an attractive gloss white tongue and groove PVC cladding that matches perfectly with the rest of your conservatory construction. The materials we use are lightweight, therefore no roof strengthening is 32 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
required, no planning application is necessary and no long periods of mess and upheaval in your home. In addition to this the look and finish of your Thermos Roof will be as fresh in 10 years as it is now. The performance of the lightweight insulation system will equal that of vastly more expensive options, with less mess and waste, and less time to install saving you thousands of pounds and allowing you to enjoy your conservatory immediately. We can install a Thermos Roof to conservatories of any size or shape transforming them into a flowing extension of your living space wherein its use is not dictated by the external weather conditions, it will become warm in winter and cool in summer. In addition to the above benefits, our team will eliminate mould and condensation, reduce rain, noise and serve to cover up an unsightly dirty roof. The gloss white finish will make it brighter in the evenings by
reflecting light and will give your conservatory that WOW factor, making it a great place to relax or work. All installations come with a 5 year warranty and we guarantee that you will be amazed with both the improved appearance and the insulating performance of your new roof. We offer a free quotation service for the installation of your Thermos Roof and, should you require it, we can also undertake maintenance works to repair or replace gutters, fascias, soffits, window sills, roof panels and leaking roofs. Please give us a call today on 01670 828 695 to start the ball rolling to making full use of your Conservatory! ■ www.thermosroof.co.uk
★★★★★ Check out our 5 star reviews on Facebook
@thermosroof
Is your conservatory: Too cold in the winter? & too hot in the summer? Does it have problems with: Too much sun glare? Condensation build-up? Noise from heavy rain? An unsightly dirty roof?
We can fix ALL of these issues with a Thermos Roof insulation system We can carry out a full install in a single day, leaving zero mess and instant results. We retain your existing roof profile & do Prices from not remove your current roof. A 5 year warranty is included.
£799
PART
P
Electrical Safety
Call Steve on 01670 828 695 or 07901 506 645 or visit our website www.thermosroof.co.uk During these unprecedented times, to ensure your safety and ours, all our staff and fitters wear MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 33 PPE where suitable and, upon completion of each job, your ConservatorySELECT will be fully disinfected.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Botanical
Inspired by the enchanting world of flora and fauna, this brand-new collection is made in the UK and exclusive to Furniture Village.
A. Verdosa Armchair, £595, Botanical Bench Footstool, £295
Combining maximalist patterns with an abundance of colour, the Botanical collection introduces a bold and exiting palette, that will add drama to any living space. Featuring three beautiful ranges, Tropicana, Paradiso and Verdosa, the collection includes sofas, handy footstools and accompanying accents chairs. Available with or without the prints, the designs are available in twelve colours including luxurious velvets and sophisticated plain weaves. Inspired by the rhythm of nature, the three whimsical patterns - Midnight, Emerald and Calypso, are woven cleverly throughout the collection. Placed across seat edging, scatter cushions and footstools, each motif delicately edges over every design, leaving a trail of playful patterns throughout the living space. Hand upholstered in the UK, the seat and back cushions are both reversible and luxuriously comfortable. An array of popular design details are celebrated across the collection, from elegant scroll arms and carved wooden feet to Mid-Century inspired tapered legs and sleek buttoned-backs. The Botanical collection is available now, both in stores and online. Prices start from £295. Find your local Furniture Village store at Metro Retail Park, Gateshead, NE11 9XU www.furniturevillage.co.uk 34 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
B.
C.
C. Verdosa 3 Seater Sofa, £895, Botanical Bench Footstool, £295
B. Tropicana 3 Seater Sofa, £1,095, Botanical Accent Chair, £795, Botanical Curved Footstool, £295
E.
D.
D. Paradiso 3 Seater Sofa, £995, Botanical Storage Footstool, £295
E. Botanical Accent Chair, £795, Botanical Curved Footstool, £295
A D V E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E
DON’T MOVE - MAKE NEW SPACE!
Your loft or garage can hold the key to that extra space that you need Most of us would benefit from some extra space in our homes, whether it is for storage purposes, providing a place to study, a home office or a hobby room or play room. NewSpace, a local company based in North Tyneside, have been creating safe accessible storage space in their client’s homes throughout the North East since 2004. From small storage spaces to large hobby area’s or even a place to study they do it all at fantastic rates and with minimum disruption. They specialise in creating hobby/ play rooms at a fraction of the price of a full loft conversion. They include the installation of an independent floor, lights and sockets, timber loft ladder, Velux window, and plasterboarded throughout. During a survey of your property, they’ll enquire how you wish to use your loft space and advise you of the options available. They also provide a comprehensive and expert garage conversion service for domestic property owners. Garage conversions are a great way to get more out of your home at a time when living space is at a premium. Most garages are too small for modern cars but can provide much needed extra space for the family. People often move house to get more space ignoring the potential already there that can be developed at a comparatively much lower cost, often increasing the value of your property in the process. From home offices and guest suites to games rooms and extra space to entertain we can convert your garage into any space you require. Their garage conversions services are always supplied as comprehensive packages of works; they get involved at the earliest possible stage providing a full survey and consultation before 36 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
TRANSFORM YOUR LOFT FROM THIS TO THIS
planning and designing your works. Converting garage space to home offices, spare rooms, games rooms and just about anything else you require is easy with NewSpace Garage Conversions. New Space only use Fully Qualified Electricians to carry out electrical work in your home. They’re Fully Insured and have all the necessary insurances to cover you, themselves, and the public. And they pride themselves on being Clean,Tidy and Punctual. Give them a call and they’ll take care of the rest. ▪ NewSpace Loft Storage & Garage Conversions Tel: 07973 957 481 www.newspaceloftstorage.co.uk www.newspacegarageconversions.co.uk
CONVERT YOUR GARAGE TO A HOME OFFICE
Northumbria
Flooring & Furniture OUTLET Winner of Flooring Retailer of the Year 2019 North East Division
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Come along to our new store at Royal Quays Outlet Centre
0
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interest free finance available
100's of Remnants Carpets · Laminates · LVT’s Vinyls Sofas · Beds · Furniture & More T&C’s apply
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
Tel: 0191 2591128
·
www.northumbriaflooring.co.uk
SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 37
A D V E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E
Prep your Garden this Autumn Although temperatures start to dwindle as we edge towards the final quarter of the year, now is the time to get outside and lay the groundwork in your garden, to allow it to spring into bloom in 2022. The expert team from Dobbies, the UK’s leading garden centre retailer, is here to help you along the way. Whether you have a seasoned green thumb or are new to planting, freshly moistened soil, longer evenings and comfortable temperatures mean the autumn garden is packed with opportunity and this should be embraced to maximise a garden’s potential for the year ahead. While spring may be the traditional time for deep-cleaning homes, Dobbies Horticultural Director Marcus Eyles, advises that autumn is the key season for sprucing up gardens. He recommends regular deadheading and cutting back of herbaceous plants and Roses - allowing them to produce some tidy growth, pruning (remember to keep sticks and stems so they can be used as plant supports next year) and continued weeding of perennials. Marcus said; “Autumn is the perfect time to wind down, restore and prepare our gardens for the new year. Spring bulbs, vegetables and leafy crops will welcome your attention throughout the season, as we prepare for winter and anticipate a healthy 2022 spring bloom." “Root systems will find it easier to develop under cooler weather, so now is an excellent time to plant potatoes for your Christmas dinner, or try beetroot and carrots for a hearty Sunday roast. Maintenance is key during the autumnal months, so make use of a quieter time to weed perennial plants and prune shrubs, but most of all, be sure to sit back and take a moment to wonder in the magnificence of the season’s rich colours.” As Marcus highlighted, autumn is not simply for maintenance, with lots of bright plants revelling in the cooler 38 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
conditions of the season. From fiery reds and oranges of the seasonal foliage to gorgeous greens from the vegetable patch harvest, for fans of colour, autumn can be beautiful. Dogwood and Birch will keep your borders looking suitably seasonal while Acers, Cyclamen, Pansies and Ornamental grasses make for beautiful displays in containers. In preparation for spring blooms, be sure to plant flowering bulbs, so they’ll burst into colour once the weather heats up again. Daffodils, Crocuses and Hyacinths can all be planted in October, but it’s best to wait until November for your Tulips. For planting in the ground, firstly check the planting depth of your bulbs and dig a hole as deep as required. Mix in Bulb Starter and add a layer of grit – this is important if you have very wet or heavy soil as it will prevent the bulbs rotting during the winter. Autumn is a season of change and transition. Peat-free compost is a great way to encourage sustainability in our gardens, and a healthy foundation for budding spring blooms. With a target to be peat-free by the end of 2021, Dobbie’s own brand peat-free compost, which is now available instore, is a sustainable alternative for those hoping to garden without compromising the environment. If food is at the forefront of your thoughts, autumn is an important time for the vegetable patch. Planting in this season gives crops a chance to start their life in warm soil giving them a strong base to establish themselves before winter and makes way for an earlier yield. Broad beans are one of the simplest vegetables to grow in autumn, doing well in most soils and climates.
Excellent in risottos, stews or as a snack, these hardy vegetables have large seeds that are easy to handle and don’t require any specialist equipment. For the best results, sow your seeds in two close rows between October and November. Garlic is another great addition to the autumn garden and will be ready to pick by July if planted now. If your soil is claggy, add grit to the bottom of the planting holes and pick a sundrenched spot. While the list of autumn tasks may feel daunting for gardeners, Dobbies handy check-list of top ten tips below should keep you and your garden on track. 1. Tidy herbaceous plants 2. Continue to do weeding, focusing on perennial plants 3. Plant bulbs ready to burst into colour in spring 4. Plant herbaceous plants 5. Empty pots and plant autumn bedding 6. Start to prune trees and large shrubs 7. Continue to plant leafy crops 8. Prep for Christmas potatoes by planting in August/September 9. Mulch beds with soil enricher, such as Bloomin Amazing 10. Make refuge for wildlife by not over-tidying Dobbies is ‘not your average garden centre’, so remember to visit our website for more information or pop into store if you require any further advice or guidance as the expert team are always on hand and happy to help. ▪ Dobbies Garden Centre, Gosforth Park, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne NE3 5EP www.dobbies.com
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UNIT 8D, NORTH TYNE IND. ESTATE, WHITLEY ROAD, BENTON, NE12 9SZ
Opposite ASDA Benton. Two minutes from A19 Whitley Bay Exit on A191 Old Coast Road
• • • •
ONLINE TUITION ALSO ACROSS NORTH EAST ALL SUBJECTS ALL AGES NEW TUTORS WELCOME
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SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 39
40 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
Davidsons of Morpeth
Volkswagen Authorised Service Dealer Booking your Volkswagen with Davidsons is the surest way to have your car serviced, repaired & cared for by a knowledgeable expert to the highest standard from a family run company, striving for a flawless experience to our customers.
Service, Repairs, Warranty & MOT Call us today to book Davidsons of Morpeth Coopies Way, Morpeth, NE61 6JN
01670 512 115 www.volkswagen.co.uk/retailers/75007/davidsons-of-morpeth-morpeth SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 41
A D V E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E
Enhance your View
AT CONTOUR BLINDS
Contour Blinds is recognised within the North East as a leading supplier of quality made to measure window blinds and shutters. A family run business with over 35 years experience.
B
linds make practical and stylish additions to the home. As well as turning windows into room features, they also help with privacy and keep draughts at bay in chillier months. Good quality blinds are an investment, so it’s worth bringing an expert in who can measure your space and run through colour, material and pattern options. Leading North East window blind supplier Contour Blinds, offer an extensive range of high quality and affordable blinds for the home and workplace and offer a no obligation quotation and free measuring and fitting so you know exactly what to expect. Established in 1995, they are a family run business who pride themselves on their prompt and professional service. Whether you’d like roller blinds, wood Venetian or deluxe shutters, Contour Blinds will have a type and design that is ideal for you. A favourite in home decor, roller blinds are a statement piece which can speak volumes about 42 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
your style. They provide privacy, light control and can significantly improve thermal performance. simple in design, stylish and easy to operate. The blind can be rolled up or down to achieve the required level of shading you require. You can add those personalised finishing touches with decorative scallops, braids, pulls, poles and eyelets to co-ordinate with your interior design scheme. Contour Blinds roller blind selection are individually manufactured to your unique specification! Vertical blinds are a practical, classic solution appropriate for all rooms. Privacy can be achieved whilst still allowing full light control, during the day and at night. Now available in many on- trend colours and patterns, inspirational new designs are the modern alternatives to the traditional whites and creams. Linear floral, geometric and retro patterns make a contemporary statement, while the use of taffeta silk or suede-like fabrics offer a subtle, luxurious effect.
In addition, an extensive range of colours in plains and black-out fabrics as well as jacquards and sheers all serve to offer a great range, creating a sharp modern twist whilst still maintaining the versatility and functionality of a tried and tested product. A wand control can remove the need for cords or chains making them safe and perfectly suited for a home with young children To make it even easier to operate your blinds, opt for a motorised control system. You can open and close your blinds with the touch of a button. Motorised is perfect for
Shutter Blinds
Vision Blinds
Velux skylights and other hard to reach windows in your home or office. If you’re keen to add character and warmth to your rooms wooden venetians are a timeless and elegant solution. Wood is a natural insulator, so wooden blinds help to keep out the cold in winter and shade your room in the summer. Options of slat size, colour and finish as well as the further option of woven tapes ensure that you can express your own interior style. A simple yet elegant alternative to blinds are shutters. From café style which covers the lower half of your window to full height, they can work on any window but gives a real wow factor and dramatic finish to any home! Or you could bring your windows to life with their new range of Vision Roller Blinds. This truly contemporary style allows you to control the light while maintaining the view. Their fabric collection features beautiful metallic finishes, pretty sheer fabrics, natural wood woven effects and a fashionable selection of muted tones. Combined
with a number of headrail options, Vision blinds are sure to complement any interior design scheme. Contour also offer panel blinds, roman, Velux and many more. If you’re looking for inspiration to brighten up your home or want see more of their ranges, why not visit one of their two showrooms in Benton and Whitley Bay? Their experts will be on hand to discuss your requirements and help you make the right choice. For added peace of mind, Contour are Certified members of the British Blinds and Shutters association. They are fully committed to help eliminate the risk associated with hazardous looped operating cords, chains and tapes used on window blinds. All blinds come with a child safety warning tag attached which explains the risks of blind cord, chain and tape and the precautions which can be put into action. With a free home visit, and free measuring and fitting, why not contact them today.
“
Whether you’d like roller blinds, Velux, Venetian or deluxe shutters, Contour Blinds will have a type and design that is ideal for you. Contour Blinds 33 Claremont Crescent, Whitley Lodge, Whitley Bay, NE26 3HL. Tel. 0191 251 3757 Unit 6A, North Tyne Industrial Estate, Whitley Road, Benton, NE12 9SZ. Tel. 0191 261 5915 www.contourblinds.com SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST | 43
RECIPE
PERFECT PUMPKIN PIE Preparation time: 40 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 40 minutes | Serves: 8
Bursting with flavour, this pumpkin pie recipe is rich, smooth, and tastes incredible with whipped cream.
Ingredients •
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750g pumpkin or butternut squash, peeled, deseeded, and cut into chunks 350g sweet shortcrust pastry (make your own or buy readymade) 140g caster sugar ½ tsp salt ½ tsp fresh nutmeg, grated 1 tsp cinnamon 2 eggs, beaten 25g butter, melted 175ml milk 1 tbsp icing sugar
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METHOD 1. Place the chopped pumpkin into a large saucepan, cover with water and bring to the boil. Cover with a lid and simmer for 15 mins or until tender. Drain and allow to cool. The final colour of your pumpkin filling will depend on the colour of the squash you choose. Some have a more yellow flesh, like butternut squash and others like the winter squash have a much more orange flesh. They will both taste equally good! 2. Preheat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface and use it to line a 22cm loose-bottomed flan tin. Chill for 15 mins. Line the pastry with baking parchment and baking beans, then bake for 15 mins. Remove the beans and parchment, then bake for a further 10 mins
until the base is pale golden and biscuity. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. 3. Increase oven temperature to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Push the cooled pumpkin through a sieve into a large bowl to make a puree. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, salt, nutmeg and half the cinnamon. Lightly beat together the eggs, melted butter and milk, then add to the pumpkin purée and mix well. Pour the mixture into the tart shell and bake for 10 minutes, Reduce the temperature to 180C/160C fan/gas 4 and continue to bake for 35-40 mins until the filling has just set. 4. Remove from the oven and allow to cool before removing the pie from the tin. You can Mix the remaining cinnamon with the icing sugar and dust over the pie or decorate in a suitably spooky style.
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BOOKS
A GOOD READ By Willow Coby & Tash Donovan
GHOST STORY by Peter Straub
Although Straub had written a couple of novels before this, this was the book that made his name. It was written in the late seventies, and is an epic creeping horror that has influenced many other writers, including Stephen King. It is set in a small fictional town, where the elderly members of The Chowder Society meet regularly to tell each other spooky stories over a few drinks. The book opens with a seemingly unconnected tale and then the death of one of the group members. Each of the remaining members begins to experience similar, nightmarish, dreams. Contacting the nephew of their dead friend, they find he also has something to contribute to their shared nocturnal visions, forcing them to explore people and events from their collective past—a past they’d much rather forget. The novel, although good in its own right, is also a tribute to ghost stories in general. Straub obviously set out to pay his respects to the genre and there are nods to Nathaniel Hawthorne and M.R James among others. There’s a main overarching plot that incorporates a few shorter stories. Straub was clearly having fun, and he includes most of the ingredients for a classic scary story. It’s not fast paced but the tension builds nicely, and a real sense of menace develops as Straub draws all the threads together for the climax. It’s a must for fans of all things scary. The storytelling is superb and it’s definitely good read for Halloween.
THE DILEMMA by Penny Vincenzi
Sometimes we’re daunted by the thickness of a book and wonder whether we should invest our time in something so enormous? Well 880 pages is certainly a big commitment. Anyone who has seen Vincenzi’s books on the shelves in a bookshop or library may well have felt a little intimidated. But Vincenzi really is worth the time and energy, though you may need a cheat sheet to keep track of all the characters! An alibi. A simple alibi. That’s all Brad Channing asks of his wife, Francesca. She simply has to say that he spent the day in the country with her, and so could not 46 | SELECT MAGAZINE NORTH EAST
have been in London. All a mother wants for her family is for them to be happy and safe. If Brad is convicted, it would be the end for all of them. His business would fall apart and the comfortable life they’ve built for their family would be destroyed. Like her other novels The Dilemma is ultimately a family saga. It may be set against a backdrop of wealth and business success on a scale that most of us can only dream of, but it shows that no matter your position or status in life we will all fight for the same things when it comes to those we love.
WILD SWANS
retold by Xanthe Gresham Knight
Eliza is the youngest of twelve children, looked after and protected by her eleven older brothers. Their father, the king is determined that the children will remain safe from the plague that is ravaging the kingdom and killed his wife. So, they are kept inside the palace walls. One day their stepmother persuades their father that they need to go out and explore the Eleven Kingdoms that they will eventually reign over, and she casts a spell on them that turns them into swans. They may only return to human form only when the sun sets. Can Eliza break the spell and bring her brothers back? This charming story is based on Hans Christian Anderson’s tale of the same name. It’s perfect for youngsters who are gaining confidence in independent reading.
WE WEAR PANTS by Katie Abey
There are many different styles of books for young children, and I know that when mine were both toddlers, one sort of book that was guaranteed to occupy them every time was a spotting book. We Wear Pants is this type of book, and the illustrations are wonderful. Each page is full of animals wearing … well, the sorts of things that you would NOT expect an animal to wear! From the titular item of underpants to t-shirts, scarves, wellies, and pyjamas. Each page asks the reader to look for a different thing. Counting candy floss on a page with animals wearing t-shirts at the fair. Finding the stripy scarf and deciding which scarf you would want to wear. And who is dreaming while wearing pyjamas. The final page asks, ‘What will you wear today?’ A lovely way to get young children thinking about getting dressed – a task that often seems to be low on the list of priorities for a child that age!
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