EE FPleaseR take one Winter 2015 EngAGE The story behind the Christmas Carol: Silent Night

Keeping Snow Warm Memories

volunteering + Whats on + in the community + Puzzle page + much more

EngAGE contents Winter 2015 10

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Contents List WINTER 2015

The Story Behind the Avoiding Future Arguments Snow Memories...... 24 Christmas Carol: When You Make Your Will. . . . 12 Three volunteers from the Heanor Silent Night...... 06 Michael Spencer provides practical shop share their memories of snow. Find out more about Silent Night and advice on the grounds of contesting the myths that gathered around a Will and how to stop it. In the Garden...... 25 its origins. Winter gardening tips. Recruiting Volunteers. . . . . 16 In the Kitchen...... 08 Age UK & ’s targeted Sybil Levin Health and Butternut squash and apple soup approach to finding volunteers Wellbeing Centre...... 28 from Fit as a Fiddle project. for its Footcare Service. Sybil Levin and its services for the over 55s and a case study on a service user. Scam Watch...... 08 Housing Options...... 20 Derbyshire Scam Watch project Learn more about Derbyshire Dales How to Feel Warmer This and tricks that scammers use. Housing Options Service in Matlock. Winter …for FREE!...... 29 Free home energy check and how you Keeping Warm...... 10 Expansion at Men in Shed can save energy and use it more wisely. Tips on how to keep yourself Workshop...... 21 and your home warm. Age UK Notts’ popular Men in Sheds project is set to expand its operation in Workshop.

4 | WINTER 2015 www.ageuk.org.uk/derbyandderbyshire 24 Meet the Foreword team… from the

Editor Angel Child Editor  0115 841 4472  [email protected]

Age UK Nottingham & Nottinghamshire Bradbury House, 12 Shakespeare Street, Nottingham NG1 4FQ  0115 844 0011  [email protected]  www.ageuknotts.org.uk Welcome to Twitter: @ageuknotts your Winter Facebook: facebook.com/ageuknotts Edition of Age UK Derby & Derbyshire EngAGE! 29a Market Place, Heanor, On the Cover Derbyshire DE75 7EG  01773 768 240  administration@ ageukderbyandderbyshire.org.uk  www.ageuk.org.uk/derbyandderbyshire In this winter issue we look at how to Twitter: @AgeUK_DD keep yourself and your home warm and Facebook: facebook.com/AUDD we share our memories about snow. We explore how you can safeguard 24 Designer Laura Lang yourself against scams and get a FREE  [email protected] home energy check in your home.

Advertising We also look at some of Age 06 Laurence Rowe  01536 526 662 UK Notts and Age UK Derby &  [email protected] Derbyshire’s services such as housing options, Men in Sheds, day care at Sybil Levin and volunteering. Publisher Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering NN16 8NL On a practical note, a solicitor from 10  01536 512 624 Actons, Michael Spencer provides some  Image © Syda productins/Shutterstock 01536 515 481 advice on the grounds for contesting a  [email protected]  www.lancepublishing.co.uk Will and what you can do to try to stop this from happening. With Christmas In the Community...... 32 Printer round the corner, we thought it would Age UK Notts and Age UK Derby Lance Print Ltd be interesting to learn about the  & Derbyshire in action near you. 01733 390 564 origin of the popular Christmas carol Silent Night. We also feature a hearty What’s On...... 33 butternut squash and apple soup recipe. Local events and activities across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. For those who love to go out and about this festive season, take a This magazine is produced, free of charge, on behalf of Age UK look at What’s On section to see Derby & Derbyshire and Age UK Nottingham & Nottinghamshire by Lance Publishing Ltd. All rights are reserved by the charities and what activities in Nottinghamshire no part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part and Derbyshire suits you best. without the written permission of the charities. Age UK Derby & Derbyshire and Age UK Nottingham & Nottinghamshire will accept no responsibility for, or necessarily agree with, any claims made or views expressed in this publication, nor does the mention of any Have a happy and merry Christmas! product, service or advertisement imply a recommendation by Age UK Derby & Derbyshire or Age UK Nottingham & Nottinghamshire. The information contained in this magazine is not advice, and should not be treated as such. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, we exclude all representations, warranties, undertakings and guarantees relating to this magazine. Age UK Derby & Derbyshire: Registered Charity No. 1068550, Limited Company No. 3510613. Age UK Nottingham & Nottinghamshire: Angel Registered Charity No. 1067881, Limited Company No. 3455485. Lance Publishing Ltd: Registered Company No. 03253372. Angel Child Editor

www.ageuknotts.org.uk WINTER 2015 | 5 EngAGE

The Story Behind the Christmas Carol: Silent Night

hospitalisation in the summer of 1817. received by the congregation In October, during his convalescence, (mostly shipping labourers, boat he was assigned to assist the priest builders and their families). at St Nicholas Church in Obernorf – where he met Franz Xaver Gruber. The original manuscript has been lost. In October 1819, Mohr was The melody was composed by Gruber, transferred from Obernorf to who was also born into poverty at Kuchl and somewhere between Unterweizberg, near Hochburgh, that time and 1821, he wrote out Austria. Gruber showed his musical an arrangement of the carol. This talents early. His father Joseph manuscript was discovered in Gruber, a linen weaver, discouraged 1995 and dated by researchers at his study of music so he studied the circa 1820 and that is the earliest violin secretly. He was the school manuscript that still exists and the teacher at Arnsdorf from 1807 to only one in Mohr’s handwriting. It 1829. During that time, he was also shows that Mohr wrote the words the organist at Oberndorf where he in 1816 when he was assigned wrote the Silent Night melody. to a pilgrim church in Mariapfarr, Austria, and shows that the music Before Christmas Eve, Mohr brought was composed by Gruber in 1818. the words to Gruber and asked him It is displayed in the Carolino to compose a melody and guitar Augusteum Museum in Salzburg. Silent Night is one of the world’s most accompaniment for the church service. popular Christmas carols . It owes its In a letter written by Franz Gruber, The spread in popularity of the popularity to its peaceful melody and son of the composer, he noted that: carol can be attributed to Carl (or its simple narration of the Christmas Karl) Mauracher, who made his tale . As the fame of this carol grew, its “During the time when my father home in the Ziller Valley and in whereabouts were slowly forgotten . was the organist of the church 1821 repaired the damaged organ Myths and fanciful tales gathered around St Nikola, there was a very poor in Arnsdorf, where Gruber lived, its origins and only recently was the almost unusable organ there.” and installed a new organ in the name of the real composer discovered . church of St Nicholas in Oberndorf This may explain why Reverend Mohr in 1825. During this time Mauracher preferred to accompany the carol on had with him the words and melody Silent Night: The Facts a well-tuned guitar than on an off-pitch for ‘Stille Nacht!’ and shared this The song ‘Stille Nacht! Heilige Nacht’ (Silent organ. On 30th December 1854, Gruber song with two neighbouring families Night! Holy Night) was first performed on wrote the following: of singers in the Ziller Valley, the Christmas Eve in 1818 at St Nicholas parish Strassers and the Rainers. Both church in Oberndorf, a village on the Salzach “On December 24th in the year 1818 families embraced the song and River in Austria located approximately 11 the curate of the newly erected sang it throughout Europe. miles north-northwest from Salzburg. This parish-church St Nicola of Obernorf, performance had been years in the making Mr Joseph Mohr handed over a According to the Stille Nacht with the lyrics having been written two years poem to the deputy organist, Franz Gesellschaft (Silent Night before by Reverend Joseph Mohr (1792 Gruber (at that time also teacher Association) the original Rainer – 1848) and the melody being composed at Arnsdorf) with the request to Family Singers sang the song in the by Franz Xaver Gruber (1787 – 1863). compose a suitable melody for parish church of Fügen (Zillertal) two solo voices with choir and the at Christmas 1819 and again three A young assistant priest, Reverend Joseph accompaniment of one guitar.” years later at the Castle of Count Mohr, had come to Oberndorf the year Dönhoff. It was during this period before. He had already written the lyrics of Gruber did so and both performed the that the original melody was slightly the song ‘Stille Nacht’ in 1816 at Mariapfarr, carol during the midnight mass on 24th changed. The association also in the Salzburg Lungau region in Austria, December 1818. Mohr sang the tenor reports the song was included where Mohr had worked as a coadjutor and part and provided accompaniment in a church songbook dated where he was living at the time. The source with guitar, while Gruber sang the bass 22nd July, 1819 and prepared of his inspiration is unknown; Mariapfarr and the church choir did the refrains by Blasius Wimmer, organist was home to his grandfather, and this area of each verse, which consisted of the and teacher in Waidring (Tirol). had suffered greatly during the Napoleonic last two lines of the verse. According Unfortunately, this can’t be wars, which had just ended. Due to poor to Gruber, the song was met with verified as this copy is now health, Mohr was sent to Salzburg for general approval and enthusiastically lost meaning the first verifiable

6 | WINTER 2015 www.ageuk.org.uk/derbyandderbyshire publication of the song occurred in A recent film created for Austrian of different countries’ versions, whilst 1833 when publisher A. R. Friese of television places Oberndorf in the the melody has also altered over Dresden and Leipzig included it as the Alps and includes evil railroad barons time becoming a slower, meditative fourth song in a sheet music booklet and a double-dealing priest, while lullaby, differing slightly from Gruber’s entitled “Vier echte Tyroler Lieder...” a recent book by a German author original, which was a sprightlier, (“Four genuine Tirolian songs...”). places a zither in the hands of Gruber dance-like tune. In order to safeguard and connects Mohr with a tragic and further verify the origins of the The Rainers brought the song to the fire engulfing the city of Salzburg. carol UNESCO declared Silent Night United States in 1839 where it was an intangible cultural heritage in 2011. performed at numerous locations, There is a legend associated with including the Alexander Hamilton the carol that says Mohr wanted the monument in New York, near Trinity carol to be sung by the children of the Church. At that time, only a very few village at the midnight Christmas Eve knew of the authorship of the carol service, as a surprise for their parents. which was already well known. But in the middle of practising, the organ broke and not a note would come from it! So the children had Silent Night: The Legend to learn the carol only accompanied There have been many stories of the by a guitar. They learnt the carol so origins of Silent Night. Today books, well that they could sing it on its own films and Internet sites are filled without accompaniment. However, with fanciful tales purporting to tell there are no records to indicate its history. Some tell of mice eating that a children’s choir was involved the bellows of the organ creating the or that the organ was broken! necessity for a hymn to be accompanied by a guitar. It is actually not known Whether or not the legends associated however if the organ was truly with the carol are true, the enduring broken at Christmas time in 1818. appeal of the carol Silent Night cannot be disputed. It has been Others claim that Mohr was forced translated into about 140 different to write the words to a new carol in languages with the most popular haste since the organ would not play. English version sung today being the Some say that Mohr simply wanted 1859 translation by John Freeman a new carol for the service and was Young. Over time slight differences fond of the guitar as an instrument. have developed between the lyrics

www.ageuknotts.org.uk WINTER 2015 | 7 EngAGE In the Kitchen: Scam Watch

80% of phone scam victims Butternut Squash are over 55 years old. & Apple soup

This simple recipe will warm you up on Scams are schemes that con rather than the fact that they a cold winter’s day . It is quick to make, you out of money through post, are being asked to send cash has a stunning appearance and tastes phone calls, text messages, or personal details to claim it. delicious . Serve with some fresh crusty emails or doorstep selling. More bread . The recipe was taken from the than 3 million people each year What other tricks do Fit as a Fiddle project that operated are estimated to be the victims of scammers use? in Derbyshire a few years ago . scams, but only 5% of these are reported. Many people are not To make the scams even more Serves 2 even aware that they have been convincing, some put ‘THIS IS the victim of a scam. Many others NOT A SCAM!’ on their letters, or Ingredients are too embarrassed to admit they say this over the phone to victims. ½ onion, chopped have fallen for a scam or don’t ½ stick of celery, chopped believe they have been conned • Scammers can build very ½ carrot, chopped and so don’t report the issue. convincing websites and 1 tbsp butter copy legitimate sites. ½ butternut squash, peeled, seeds Derbyshire Scam Watch is a • Scammers send out false removed and chopped project funded by the Police testimonials and photographs ½ tart green apple, peeled, cored and chopped and Crime Commissioner for of fictitious winners. 300ml chicken or vegetable stock Derbyshire, in partnership with • Scammers claim to be Pinch of nutmeg, cinnamon, Age UK Derby & Derbyshire, lottery officials, clairvoyants, cayenne and salt and pepper Derbyshire County Council presidents of banks and use Cream, parsley and/or chives and Citizen’s Advice. other important sounding to garnish (optional) The aim of the project is to titles and names. raise awareness, particularly • Scammers try to trick Methods amongst older residents, of the people into sending them 1. Heat the butter, add the onion, celery potential harmful effects of mass passports, photographs and carrot and sauté for 5 minutes. marketing, internet, doorstep and birth certificates by 2. Add the squash, apple and stock. and telephone scams and to pretending they are arranging 3. Bring to the boil and simmer for 30 minutes provide one to one advice and celebration parties or until the squash and carrots have softened. support where potential scam sending out photographs. 4. Puree, add the spices and seasoning to or fraud victims are identified. • Scammers hide behind taste and serve garnished with a swirl of cream letters from fictitious charities (if desired) and chopped parsley or chives. Once someone’s name is on a and often use distressing scammer’s list, their criminal photographs in an attempt mail and phone calls will start to pull at the heartstrings to increase as more scammers of caring people. try their luck at getting their hands on your cash. For more information visit: Scammers are very crafty people, www.derbyshirescamwatch. they know how to get into minds. org.uk or ageuk.org. Someone whose mind has been derbyandderbyshire/ ‘dazzled’ will become excited scamwatch and start to focus on the prize,

8 | WINTER 2015 www.ageuk.org.uk/derbyandderbyshire As recommended on carehome.co.uk ‘The whole team show care and compassion and gave me tremendous support with my Dad, during very difficult times. They are a team to be proud of, I have never found such dedicated and caring staff as this’ Relatives Pat & family • All our homes offer Nursing, • The comfortable welcoming lounges Convalescence, Respite, Dementia, overlook well-tended gardens Our latest home is CANAL VUE Personal/Residential care services or picturesque waterway Ilkeston, Derby DE7 8JF and have modern facilities • We host regular visits from local • Our spacious en-suite rooms are GP, chiropodist, optician, dentist, tastefully decorated and furnished physiotherapist, hairdresser to a very high standard and churches/ministers • We have plenty of fully qualified • Dedicated Activities Co-ordinators & nursing staff, with 24 hour care & regularly organised trips and outings specialist nurse call systems • Our meals are home cooked and we cater for special diets

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MELBOURNE HOUSE Aspley, NG8 5RU At the recent long service awards Managing Director, James Day spoke of ‘changing times’ and the development of Eastgate, into the business it is today, with 5 care homes. “It has been my pleasure to work with the great teams of people at Eastgate Care, over the 25 years, with their hard work and dedication to the residents and the running of the homes, they are the real key to providing successful care, PARK HOUSE including; managers, nurses, carers, domestic Bulwell, NG6 8SB and administrative staff.” A local Company celebrating 25 Years Providing Care, 1990 – 2015 Home for an estimated ¼ million people over a quarter of a century Tel: 0115 979 1234 The White Swan, Head Office & Training Centre, Notts NG6 0GD Email: [email protected] www.eastgatecare.co.uk EngAGE

Keeping Warm

and even a hat – a lot of heat 64°F/18°C. You may want your Even if it isn’t a severe winter, cold is lost through your head main living room to be warmer weather makes us more vulnerable • Use a hot-water bottle, wheat bag or than this, and if you feel cold, to certain illnesses . The following an electric blanket to warm the bed, turn the heat up regardless of tips are all taken directly from the but never use a hot-water bottle what the thermometer reads. Age UK guide “Winter Wrapped and an electric blanket together. • Get to know how the timer and Up”, which is available from any • Check whether your electric blanket thermostat on your heating system of the information offices . can be kept on all night or whether work. If it’s very cold, set the timer it’s only designed to warm the bed to switch the heating on earlier, before you get in. Get it checked rather than turning the thermostat Keeping yourself warm every three years by an expert. up to warm your house quickly. indoors and out . • Keep your feet warm. As with your • Close the curtains at dusk. hands and face, cold feet can • Don’t block up air vents, as fires • Make sure you keep your hands trigger a potentially dangerous rise and heaters need ventilation. and face warm. As well as wearing in blood pressure. Choose boots Good ventilation also helps gloves and a hat, always wrap a with non-slip soles and a warm to prevent condensation. scarf around your face when you lining, or wear thermal socks. • Keep your bedroom window closed go out in cold weather, even for • Check local news and weather at night when the weather is cold. short intervals. This helps to warm forecasts for advice when The coldest time of the day is just the air you breathe. If your hands bad weather is forecast. before dawn. Breathing in cold air and face get cold they can trigger raises the risk of chest infections. a rise in blood pressure which Keeping your home warm • Test your carbon monoxide puts you at risk of a heart attack. alarms. You should have one • Several thin layers of clothing will • Most of us spend a lot of time fitted in each room that has a keep you warmer than one thick indoors in winter, so it’s important gas appliance, as there is a risk layer, as the layers trap warm that you are comfortable and of carbon monoxide poisoning air. Clothes made from wool or safe there. And it’s essential that if air vents become blocked. fleecy synthetic fibres such as you keep your home warm. Low • Contact your local Age UK for polyester are a better choice temperatures increase the risk of a benefits check and advice than cotton. Start with thermal flu and other respiratory problems on any other financial support underwear, warm tights or socks. and can raise blood pressure. Blood you may be eligible for: • If you’re sitting down, a shawl or pressure takes longer to return to blanket will provide a lot of warmth. normal in older people who have Age UK Derby & Derbyshire Try to keep your feet up, as the been out in the cold, increasing the 01773 768 240 air is cooler at ground level. risk of heart attacks and strokes. Age UK Nottingham • Wear warm clothes in bed. • Keep your main living room around & Nottinghamshire When it’s very cold, wear 70°F/21°C, and the rest of the 0115 844 0011 thermal underwear, bed socks house should be heated to at least

10 | WINTER 2015 www.ageuk.org.uk/derbyandderbyshire

EngAGE Advertorial Avoiding Future Arguments When You Make Your Will hutterstock S tock/ S dBock mage © E © mage I

A Will sets out everything you How do you challenge a Will? time of making a Will, your solicitor want to happen after you die . It The four main ways for somebody should follow what is known as the is a very important document that to challenge your Will are if: ‘Golden Rule’. This says that if there everyone should have . Just as 1. You did not have mental is any doubt at all about your capacity important though is foreseeing capacity when you made it. then obtain medical evidence. So and avoiding disputes . 2. You were unduly influenced by do not be insulted if your solicitor someone when you made it. suggests this. They are following good 3. The Will was not signed or practice to protect your wishes. They Michael Spencer, a solicitor with Actons witnessed correctly or you did not should also have met you and their in Nottingham, who deals regularly know or approve its contents. notes are also powerful evidence. with family disputes, provides some 4. You did not provide for someone practical advice on the grounds for who can make a claim under the How to avoid a claim against contesting a Will and what you can do Inheritance (Provision for Family your Will for undue influence? to try to stop this from happening. and Dependants) Act 1975. To set aside your Will for undue influence, someone has to prove that How to avoid a challenge on you were coerced into making it. There your capacity to make a Will are a number of practical things you • The nature of making its Will can do to show that you were not. First and the consequences i.e. what and foremost, it is advisable to instruct they are leaving to people a solicitor to draft your Will. You should • The extent of their property; and meet the solicitor face to face. You • The individuals who they are should go alone to any appointments morally bound to provide for and or at least see the solicitor alone. You the consequences if they do not should ask for a draft to consider. provide for these individuals Only after consideration should you return to sign. Instructing a Solicitor And show that your Will is not will mean that you have an objective affected by any false beliefs. and impartial person who will ensure If there might be a question over that the wishes in your Will are yours whether you have capacity at the and nobody else’s. They can confirm

12 | WINTER 2015 www.ageuk.org.uk/derbyandderbyshire Advertorial

estranged from her mother for many years. The reasoning behind this was that the daughter was very poor, Avoiding Future Arguments When You the mother was being unreasonable Make Your Will by not leaving her daughter anything and the beneficiaries were charities with which she this afterwards, should somebody a Any person with whom you had no particular connection. suggest you were influenced into cohabited continuously with for at making certain decisions in your Will. least two years before your death a Your children; anybody you treated If you do decide to make or not make as a child of your family unit certain gifts in your Will that may a Any other person you were confuse or upset someone, you may supporting financially when you die. want to explain your reasons for doing this. You can put your reasons in a Spouses etc. can claim reasonable letter to be stored with your Will. financial provision, the others are limited to reasonable financial How to avoid a claim against the provision by way of maintenance. 20 Regent Street validity of the Will because it Nottingham was not executed correctly? The Courts, under the Inheritance NG1 5BQ This type of claim is an all too common Act, can thus amend your Will. You t 0115 9100 200 occurrence, particularly with homemade can take certain practical steps to e [email protected] Wills. Under the Law there are certain prevent a challenge. Always provide f 0115 9100 249 processes that have to be followed for spouses, dependent children w www.actons.co.uk when making a Will and the best way (living with you or not) cohabitees to avoid any claim against a Will not and other dependants. Your solicitor being executed correctly is to instruct can advise what is reasonable. It is therefore always important a Solicitor to draft the Will for you when deciding to whom you are and meet face to face to sign it. Claims by Adult Children are particularly going to leave things in your Will topical. You may have seen in the to make sure there is a reason for How to avoid challenges under news recently, a daughter successfully your choices. Again a well drafted the Inheritance Act? challenged her mother’s Will after she letter left with your Will can help. A number of people can make wasn’t left anything. Her mother’s Will a claim against a Will: gave everything to a number of animal If you need help with a dispute or a Your spouse or civil partner; charities. The Court decided that the want a no-obligation telephone or former spouse or civil partner daughter was entitled to some of her discussion, please contact Michael (provided they have not remarried or mother’s estate (enough to pay off her Spencer on 0115 9100 200 or email registered a new civil partnership) mortgage) despite the daughter being [email protected]. hutterstock S mage © alexskopje/ mage © I

www.ageuknotts.org.uk WINTER 2015 | 13

EngAGE Recruiting Volunteers

Recruiting volunteers can be as diverse meeting new people and friends youth project workshop, I parked as the volunteers themselves . There and feeling very happy about up and went inside to a very noisy are countless methods of recruiting helping people that needed help.” room with youths of all ages volunteers and every volunteer would making crafts or just simply say that they started volunteering for Following this, several non-voluntary running around shouting! To my different reasons . One of the most opportunities came along with Age amazement this is where I found powerful ways of informing people UK Derby & Derbyshire, including my first 3 volunteers. 3 young about the volunteering opportunities several short-term local community girls aged between 18 and 20, one available is talk with them face to projects. This has enabled Julie to already volunteering for another face . Age UK Derby & Derbyshire has work with communities, people and charity, the others at college. recently had a targeted approach to organisations with whom she would My next volunteer was a young finding volunteers specifically for the not normally have had contact with. woman that already worked in Footcare Service . Julie Akino has been a beauty salon in Ashbourne given the task of building relationships After observing a Footcare session at and is happy to use her in local communities, promoting our the Millennium Village Hall in Hulland experience of cutting nails in services that need volunteers and Ward, Ashbourne, Julie could see first our new venue in Ashbourne. encouraging people to volunteer . hand what type of help was needed. She has also introduced me to The Footcare staff had the task of another lady that would like to be meeting and greeting clients, making trained to cut nails, she currently Julie started her own volunteering tea, filling and emptying the bowls works with the elderly, but is journey after relocating to Derbyshire of water, booking new appointments going to beauty college in January and having a bit of time available but and taking payments and of course so would like the experience. not wanting to commit to anything their main job of clipping nails. This brings me to my next long term. She became a volunteer All this was done with a smile and couple of volunteers, these are Insurance Arranger in the Derby office caring attitude, but it was obvious a couple of ladies from the over after spotting a notice in the window they needed a helping hand. 60s club who will be happy to asking for volunteers in August 2010. do the meeting and greeting.” Julie said; Julie tells her story now about her first volunteer recruits and All the people mentioned are “I worked as a volunteer for two how she found them: interested in joining Age UK Derby years and was one of the best & Derbyshire bringing with them decisions I have made. Having a “With fliers and posters literally their diverse experiences from totally different day once a week, hot off the printer, I came across a different places and times in their

16 | WINTER 2015 www.ageuk.org.uk/derbyandderbyshire Recruiting Volunteers Kris Kross Winter Solution on page 28

lives. Without volunteers we would not be able to do our work. In becoming a volunteer people are given the opportunity to be part of a great team, learn a new skill, help in their local community, boost their CV if required and to meet lots of people. There is no one type of person who volunteers, people fit in their voluntary work around jobs, or maybe they are students, parents, retired, unemployed.

Age UK Derby & Derbyshire currently have opportunities for a variety of volunteers including but not limited to: a Footcare a Befriending 3 letters 4 letters 5 letters 6 letters 7 letters a Charity retail shops aga cold coats family blanket ice cozy cocoa freeze subzero For more information about kip dark fires frozen volunteering and to find out what raw fall frost icicle 8 letters you can offer, please call 01773 tea grit nippy lights thermals 768 240 or email administration@ hard polar severe ageukderbyandderbyshire.org.uk. heat scarf shiver 9 letters logs sleet sledge Christmas oven years toasty There are also opportunities for skis volunteering for Age UK Notts, slip please contact Judith Keegan snow on 0115 844 0011 or email judith. soup [email protected]. stew

www.ageuknotts.org.uk WINTER 2015 | 17

EngAGE

Housing Options

“I do not know what I would have done without the help of Age UK Derby & Derbyshire’s Housing Options Service.”

For ten years, the Derbyshire Dales suitable, then HOPS often arrange this?’ The times in my previous Housing Options Service (HOPS) for an occupational therapist to visit roles when I would have called in Matlock has been providing and work closely with social workers upon the assistance of such a information and advice to help people and healthcare professionals. team are immeasurable. Sadly I stay living in their homes safely or if had previously worked in a district that isn’t possible, to allow them to The advisors will also do benefits where there had been nothing make informed choices about moving checks to ensure the clients are similar available to me. I had to more suitable accommodation . receiving all the money they are observed a serious lack of provision entitled to. Last year the team for older persons faced with such helped clients claim over £200,000 housing issues and the extreme Since the service started, it has been worth of additional benefits. difficulties that caused them.” funded by Derbyshire Dales District The HOPS advisors will support Council who continues to offer funding the client in finding alternative The HOPS team provides a for such a beneficial and life-changing accommodation if this is required vital link between the client and service. The partnership between the and 63 clients have been offered the various official, statutory District Council and Age UK Derby & properties since January 2015. departments and services. Derbyshire is not just financial as the The newest member of the HOPS Since January 2015, 146 new clients team is also based at the Derbyshire team, Linda, has a housing have been supported in addition to Dales District Council Town Hall, working background of 20 years in various those already being supported. The closely with the Housing Department. capacities and so arrived with HOPS advisors go the extra mile for The Council Housing Department an open mind about what the the clients, offering a professional regularly refer their clients to HOPS in role would be and where the job service whilst keeping it individual order for a home visit to be conducted. would take her. Linda says, and personal to the needs of each client. The clients become On a home visit, the HOPS advisor gets “It took me just a few hours of empowered and gain confidence an idea of how the client is managing working in the office and listening at the very time when things feel on a day-to-day basis in their home, to the conversations and work of the most difficult and confusing. with a view to identifying any aids my new colleagues to know what and adaptations which may help. If an amazing service this is. My Case study aids and adaptations are required in first thought being ‘Why hasn’t Mr. D, a manual worker all his life, order to make a client’s house more every district got a provision like found himself facing a multitude of

20 | WINTER 2015 www.ageuk.org.uk/derbyandderbyshire Expansion at Men in Shed Worksop

Age UK Notts’ popular Men in and vegetables, either for use in Sheds project is set to expand its the local community or for their operation in Worksop to include extra own use. Members can put their sessions and a gardening project. gardening skills and knowledge The ‘Shed’ which is actually a well to good use but expert advice is equipped workshop, provides a on hand should it be needed. place for men aged 60 and over to Age UK Notts runs similar projects enjoy woodwork and camaraderie. at Blidworth and Daybrook. If you Members share and learn skills are interested in getting involved, whilst participating in a range either as a volunteer or as a member, of woodworking projects, either please ring the project co-ordinator for themselves or to produce listed below to arrange a visit. items for sale by the shed. Membership is free and a half day session costs just £1.60. difficulties and came to us for help. He had shared his life and his home Worksop shed with his mum and when she finally Patrick Lacey needed to be in full time care the DWP t 0787 283 9629 considered her half of their house as e [email protected] income. After taking legal advice the HOPS staff were able to make the Blidworth shed case that Mr. D should be treated as a Christopher Riley vulnerable dependent and this saved t 0787 283 9556 him £116 a week in care home fees. e christopher.riley@ Later, it was discovered that the care ageuknotts.org.uk home was over-charging Mr. D for his Due to the success of this project, Mother’s care and HOPS staff helped the shed which is currently open all Daybrook shed him get £2,000 of his own money day Wednesday, Thursday and Friday Adie Harkin back. Had we not been involved, Mr. is looking for volunteers and new t 0787 283 9570 D would have been forced to have members to open further sessions. e [email protected] sold the home he grew up in and Volunteers do not need any previous his skill-set he would not have been experience, just a willingness to help The sheds produce a large selection capable of rebuilding a life for himself. out. Members come from a variety of of wooden items for the home and backgrounds from highly skilled wood garden including bird houses and turners and joiners to woodwork boxes, benches, planters, turned For more information, please beginners, all work together and bowls and bespoke orders. Members contact 01629 761 127. Age UK there is a role for everyone. The are currently focusing on their Notts also offers similar service in Worksop shed is expanding further Christmas range which includes Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, to include a gardening element wooden Christmas trees, decorations to access this service please where members can access a and a selection of unique hand contact Jackie Mcguinness on poly tunnel and allotment space crafted gifts. All proceeds from 0115 993 3399 or email jackie. at A1 Housings Branching Out the sale of these items are used [email protected]. project at their Hundred Acre to support the project. To find out Wood site. Here members can more or to place an order, please get involved with growing flowers contact your nearest shed.

www.ageuknotts.org.uk WINTER 2015 | 21 Family Members Scheme Hospitality Action is the trade charity for the hospitality industry. We support those who have or who are working in the direct provision of food, drink and accommodation away from home.

One of our core services is our Family Members Scheme. This is a contact scheme for people who have spent at least seven years working in the UK hospitality industry and who are now: • Aged 60 or over, OR • Near this age and becoming more socially isolated or lonely

Our Family Members Scheme is completely free to join and so too are all the benefits: • Bi-monthly Newsletter • Birthday Card and gift • Christmas Card and gift • Phone Friends • Regional Family Member Lunches • Confidential Helpline and Signposting Service

For further information contact our Family Members Co-ordinator Jenny on T. 020 3004 5508 E. [email protected] or visit our website at www.hospitalityaction.org.uk

Top quality care in unique Georgian surroundings for people in their later years Coxbench Is About Caring! Sustain and enjoy independence throughout your retirement years in elegant surroundings with the support of top quality family style care. This high quality retirement home is a beautiful Georgian building set in 4.5 acres of parkland, featuring a stream, pond and sensory gardens, just north of Derby City. l Highly trained staff • Superb home cooking l Lift to all floors l Most rooms have en-suite toilets l Ample lounge space with large conservatory l Call Care System to all rooms l Loop System l Own mini-bus l Extensive activities and entertainment Contact us or call in for an Enquiry Pack inc. DVD Coxbench Hall Residential Home Alfreton Road, Coxbench, Derby DE21 5BB Tel: 01332 880200 www.coxbench-hall.co.uk e.mail: [email protected] “It’ll Be Lonely This Christmas…” so say the words of the 1974 Christmas hit by Mud. It may be a festive favourite for many but the truth is Christmas will be a particularly lonely time for some people – especially the older and vulnerable. But the irony is that it needn’t be so. We are social creatures and we (generally) need and enjoy the company of others. And it’s not like there is any shortage of people – populations are rising across the county, the country and the world.

At Ashmere, Christmas is a very special time for us and we choose to celebrate by hosting a wealth of entertainment and activities ensuring our residential homes are always a cheerful place to be.

Our three residential homes in Nottinghamshire have all achieved the highest banding by the Care Quality Commission and also in their food hygiene. One of our homes (Sutton Manor) is ranked 14th out of almost 2000 homes in the based on user recommendations on carehome.co.uk. We are a family business and have been in the care business for over 30 years so we certainly know a thing or two about it. We always have great offers which run all year long like our “design your own bedroom” offer which is open to all long term residents. We also have fantastic facilities with an on-site hydrotherapy pool, sensory courtyard and hairdressers.

A friendly face and a listening ear can make such a difference to someone who might otherwise go from one day to the next without human contact. We also welcome animals so we are more than happy to accommodate your furry friends. All on site visitors receive a complimentary lunch club voucher for two people so it just goes to show, there is such a thing as a free lunch!

If you would like more details or to arrange a viewing to discuss your requirements, please call 01623 441130 or pop along to our reception desk located on the ground floor of Sutton Court (Priestsic Road, Sutton in Ashfield) for more information. Ashmere Care Centre, Priestsic Road, T: 01623 441130 Sutton in Ashfield (opposite Asda) E: [email protected] EngAGE

Snow Memories

Whether we like snow or not now, snow, or maybe you are still waiting from the Heanor shop to share their everyone will agree that the fresh- to see how bad the snow will be! memories of snow. Maybe some of fallen snow looks so beautiful and these memories will remind you of awesome. Waking up to thick, fresh When we think about the snow when something from when you were young. snow covering the landscape like icing we were children, it is easy to think on a Christmas cake is one of those that the snow was always deeper and The chart below shows how the memories that sticks in our mind. lasted longer than it does now. This is snow fluctuates quite dramatically because when snow was in abundance, over time dispelling the myths that We can all remember times when the it triggers all our senses and blocks out it ALWAYS snowed more when we snow has been so thick and lasted for some of the times when the snowfall were children! It is the Met Office ages. It may well be that as you read was disappointing. This article has been annual summary from 1946-1991. this the whole region is covered in thick an opportunity for three volunteers The red line shows the number of

Number of days with snow or sleet falling, and snow lying, during each season in

24 | WINTER 2015 www.ageuk.org.uk/derbyandderbyshire In The Garden: Winter Gardening Tips

Just because the cold weather has descended, it doesn’t mean that it’s closed season for gardening. In fact it’s essential to keep them ticking over in the winter months. Following are some useful winter gardening tips which you might find handy.

Plant spring bulbs like tulips, daffodils and crocus in borders and containers, they also look fantastic days that snow was lying on the ground. The blue line naturalised along hedge lines or under trees. shows the number of days that snow/sleet was falling. Tidy borders by cutting back herbaceous plants as Mavis Littlewood remembers having to walk one mile well as remove summer bedding and weeds, lightly fork to school in wellies and carry plimsoles to change into at over and mulch with well-rotted garden compost. school. The snow was so deep that it went over the top of her wellies so her feet were cold and wet anyway. It Plant new shrubs and trees as they establish and wasn’t just her feet that would be wet as the boys would root down well because the soil is warm from the always throw snowballs as the girls went past. The girls summer and moist from the autumn rain, which would give as good as they got in return fire! Once at means they get a really good start in the spring. school, the wellies would be put by the coal fire in the corner of the classroom as there was no central heating. Lift and store smaller non-hardy plants such as dahlias and geraniums whilst with larger plants that Pat Dawson remembers schools never closed, can’t be moved like tree ferns and Gunnera, protect however deep the snow. In those days more people their leaves or wrap in hessian or if in containers walked to school as there were less vehicles on the move them close to the house for extra protection. road and so the bad snow did not cause the disruption it does now. She remembers one winter when the Plant winter bedding like pansies, wall flowers and snow lasted for a long time. Milk was delivered to forget-me-nots for much appreciated colour in winter and school on a sledge. The 1/3 pint milk bottles arrived early spring. Put the plants closer together than normal frozen and had to be put on the hearth to thaw. This as they don’t fill out as much as summer bedding. meant the milk tasted horrible as it was warm! Rake up leaves regularly especially from the 1979 was a good year for snow and the photos on this lawn as if left it can lead to bare patches. page were from that time. Sheila Wain remembers the road at Woodlinkin (which is now part of the Heanor Clear and tidy vegetable patch by throwing out any canes bypass from to Langley Mill) being so deep and netting that is past its sell by date. Roughly dig over in snow that the she and her brother had to help her the soil but you don’t need to worry about breaking up the father dig out the car as it was completely buried. clods as the winter weather will naturally do that for you. She remembers the snow seemed to last forever. Provide for the birds by putting out a range of food and keep it as clean as possible. Water is just as important as natural resources freeze up – create a pond or water feature and make sure birdbaths stay ice-free.

www.ageuknotts.org.uk WINTER 2015 | 25

STUDY LOOKING FOR PEOPLE WITH MACULAR DEGENERATION We are looking for people with Macular Degeneration to take part in a study at The University of Nottingham You will be asked to attend sessions of up to 2 hours each We offer an inconvenience allowance and travel compensation

For more information: Telephone: Jane Fowlie (0115) 9515316 Email: [email protected]

Think Print

Lance Print is an established printers based in Peterborough. At Lance we combine skill, experience & knowledge to provide a complete professional service.

We aim to fill our clients with confidence in the EASTWOOD HOUSE knowledge that any work undertaken by us, will be The long established Eastwood House is a friendly completed to the highest residential home quietly situated within easy walking possible standard. distance of Eastwood Town. We cater for long and short stay residents and provide respite stays and day Call Today: care services to support carers. If you are considering (01733) care then please feel free to contact our manager Kelsey Davis who will advise you on your choice of care 390564 and the cost implications. Equally, you can request a brochure or pop in to one of our coffee mornings.

24 Church Street, Eastwood, Nottingham, NG16 3HS 01773712003 www.lanceprint.co.uk [email protected] EngAGE Sybil Levin Health and Wellbeing Centre

The Sybil Levin Centre is a health and wellbeing centre with lots of services under one roof for the over 55s .

We specialise in day care for people with dementia providing specialist support for those with higher level of care needs and the much needed respite for many carers. The age range in day care is between 60 and 101. We tailor the days to suit each individual making sure that each individuals needs are catered for with a varied and suitable wide range of activities organised by fully trained staff who are committed to providing person-centred care. attendance and familiarity of the aware and her daughter feels setting, Sybil Levin offers significant that the centre is giving Mrs A a We provide a home-cooked nutritional emotional, mental and social good quality of life, she feels the 2-course lunch each day and benefits to you or your loved ones. staff make her mum feel valued homemade biscuits with cups of Apart from day care, Sybil Levin as an individual and gives her a tea or coffee for refreshments. also provides other services which positive to focus on in her life. include bathing, hairdressing, We have our own mini bus that picks people yoga classes, movement to music, Mrs A’s daughter came to the up and takes people home giving door-to- table tennis, social events, trips centre some years ago not knowing door service. In addition, you or your loved out and the occasional holiday. what to expect. We talked to her ones will be in safe hands as all our staff about all the services we provided and volunteers are DBS (Disclosure Barring Case study on Mrs A and she eventually brought Mrs Service, formerly CRB) checked. With regular Mrs A whose daughter lives a great A to the centre and stayed with distance away attends the day her to see what we were all about. care at Sybil Levin regularly. Mrs Over the weeks she could see the A’s daughter feels that the centre good work we were doing and she provides her with peace of mind and trusted us to look after Mrs A who that her mother is in safe hands, now comes three days a week! she feels that we provide good social interaction and really good Sybil Levin is located at 577A company in addition to cognitive Nuthall Road, Cinderhill, stimulation and a lovely hot meal. Nottingham NG8 6AD. For more information or to access Her experience with the staff the centre and its services, members is that they are cheerful, please contact Michelle thoughtful and accommodating Sanderson on 0115 978 0011. and the support the centre provides is invaluable to keeping For more information about her mum independent in her own the Age UK Derby & Derbyshire home for as long as possible. day centres in Derbyshire, On the days Mrs A comes to the please call 01629 813 221. centre she appears to be a lot more

28 | WINTER 2015 www.ageuk.org.uk/derbyandderbyshire Don’t delay! By taking action now we can really help you .

How to Feel Warmer This Winter . for. FREE!

No one wants to live in a cold are exacerbated by the cold e.g. home, yet every winter 24,000 heart and respiratory conditions For a free Home Energy older people die in the UK as • People living in Nottingham City Check contact us on a result of cold weather . and conurbation such as Arnold, freephone 0800 888 6464 or Carlton, Mapperley, Hucknall, emailing hsi@ageuknotts. West Bridgford and Daybrook. org.uk. If you live in Derby or Age UK Notts Home Safety and Derbyshire, please call 01773 Improvement (HSI) Service is here A true story about Mr Flint 768 240 to see if there is any to help older people struggling help available in your area. to keep warm and/or pay their “The drafts are gone bills this energy check season. and I’m warmer.”

How can we help you? Mr Flint from Nottingham was living in We offer a free home energy check a cold drafty property, stuffing a tea Answers & Solutions in your home to look at how you can towel into his letter box to reduce the from page save energy and use it more wisely. cold drafts coming into the house. We can install free energy efficiency equipment including draught The house was cold but following excluders, radiator panels, night a free home energy check he lights, timer switches, boiler jackets is more aware of how he can and more. We can also advise you on take simple steps to reduce his how to keep warm and well in winter. energy consumption which will reduce his bills and he was thrilled Who can we help? with the measures fitted which We are able to offer our help included free energy saving light to the following people: bulbs and draft excluders.

• People aged 60+ who are on low “I can’t thank Age UK Notts enough income or living in a cold home for all their help. It is invaluable • Home owners or people in in helping people like me.” private rented accommodation • People with health conditions that Don’t delay! By taking

www.ageuknotts.org.uk WINTER 2015 | 29 You could be in the Algarve, relaxing in the sun...

Situated on the top floor of a three storey block the apartment has its own residents’ swimming pool. It has the advantage of being away from the bustle of the town centre but within walking distance (10 minutes to the marina and another 5 to the town centre).

It has a twin bedroom, open plan kitchen and lounge. The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven, microwave, toaster and washing machine. There is a family sized bathroom. The lounge has a sofa (which converts into two more single beds) and a table to seat four. A TV, DVD and CD player are also available. Both the lounge and bedroom have patio doors which open onto the balcony offering views over the swimming pool and across Lagos. There is ample car parking space in front of the building. www.algarveestatemanagement.co.uk apt meia PRICES: Nov to Mar £190 Apr & Oct £255 May & Sept £290 June £330 July & Aug £410

To book accommodation please contact Judith Hall on 01536 711884 Apartments can also be booked very competitively at [email protected] Over 50s travel insurance Relax… with Age UK Travel Insurance  No upper age limit  Cover for medical conditions wherever possible*

Pop in for a quote at: Age UK Local Trading Limited 48 Upper Parliament Street, NOTTINGHAM. 26/28 Regent Street, MANSFIELD 15 The Morledge, DERBY

You can also call your local Age UK office: 0800 313 4023 † www.ageukinsurance.com

Age UK Travel Insurance is provided by Ageas Insurance Limited *Subject to medical screening and acceptance by the underwriters. † If you call the 0800 number and your local office is not available, your call will be answered by Age UK Enterprises or Ageas Insurance Limited. Age UK Enterprises Limited is the commercial arm of Age UK (charity no.1128267) and donates its net profits to that charity. Age UK Enterprises Limited is registered in and Wales no.3156159. Registered address: Tavis House 1-6 Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9NA. T3705V4JUN15 DG010783_15 EngAGE

Age UK Notts Sing and In the Community Smile Group at The Malt Cross, Nottingham Age UK Derby & Derbyshire’s make a late entry to Erewash in Bloom. Memory Lane Award Memory Lane and Epha House are now Anyone walking into the historic and looking at organising a weekly gardening beautiful venue of The Malt Cross in Age UK Derby & Derbyshire’s Memory group and entering again next year! Nottingham on the 24th September Lane service along with Metropolitan would have been greeted by our two Housing, came joint second in “Best very enthusiastic and lively Sing and Street and Communal area”. The Smile groups who joined forces for awards were presented at Erewash in this special sing-a-long extravaganza Bloom which took place on the 9th of along with their fantastic singing tutor October at Morley Hayes Golf Club. Jane Ashworth. With great support from The Malt Cross, there was a Memory Lane runs a session every fortnight healthy turnout made up of members at Epha House on Shipley Common Lane of both our Nottingham and Beeston Ilkeston. Metropolitan Homes own Epha Pictured from left to right are: Sing and Smile groups and plentiful House which is a sheltered and supported Di Cliff, Memory Lane, Age UK support in the audience from friends, housing scheme. During the summer the Derby & Derbyshire; Val Custance, family and curious members of the group raised funds for the pond’s pump and Erewash Mayor; Blossom Thompson, public. All in all this made for a very plants. Residents, staff and group members Housing Support Manager for enjoyable afternoon for everyone of Memory Lane teamed up and decided to Metropolitan Housing. who came along, a real hark back to their roots for The Malt Cross as a former music hall venue. Age UK Derby & Derbyshire’s for sale in the shop needs to register to Retail Gift Aid confirm they are a UK tax payer. Every time There were hearty renditions of some one of those items is sold in the shop, then well-loved and well known traditional the extra money is made available. The songs and it didn’t take long for the Retail Gift Aid was being introduced in introduction to Gift Aid has been welcomed audience and even some of the bar all Age UK Derby & Derbyshire charity in the shops as it easily enables each of staff to gather up their song sheets and shops during Autumn 2015. Through them to raise more money. To find out join in with the singing. The Sing and the scheme offered by the Government, more, please call 01773 768 240 or pop Smile groups certainly lived up to their an extra 25p per £1 can be claimed into one of the eight shops: Chesterfield, name on the day, as infectious smiles back from the Government on all items Clay Cross, Duffield, Eckingotn, Heanor, and laughter filled this very special sold that had been registered for Gift Littleover, Mickleover and Wirksworth.. venue. Rapturous applause​ marked the Aid. The person donating the goods end of the performance before shouts of encore rang out from every corner with very little persuasion needed to Age UK Notts Kindred Spirits coax the group into another few songs. 20th Anniversary Party Dr. Rebekah Wood, Heritage Age UK Notts celebrated the 20th Engagement Worker for Education anniversary of Kindred Spirits with a and Outreach from The Malt Cross party for members, held at the Britannia said, “The Sing and Smile sing-a- Hotel in Nottingham on Older People’s by the High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire long Extravaganza was a fantastic Day (1st October 2015). 170 Kindred who gave a wonderful speech about how opportunity for the Malt Cross Spirits members attended the party, important it is to stay active as we age. music hall to host local singers who which featured entertainment from Tony Over 20 years Kindred Spirits has supported are passionate about bringing the Farrell’s Big Band, as well as a showcase thousands of people to meet friends, share heritage of the music hall to life of the Kindred Spirits Sing & Smile good times, enjoy healthy activities and through vibrant songs from the past, group’s talents. Everyone was served improve wellbeing. It is open to everybody the public certainly enjoyed joining a wonderful afternoon tea as well as living in Nottingham and Nottinhamshire, in too. If you enjoyed the first Sing a slice of birthday cake and everyone the activities provided are geared towards and Smile concert then you may be enjoyed themselves whilst reminiscing older people. Kindred Spirits membership in luck as we are eager to host future at the photo display or having a dance. helps people to overcome feelings of sing-a-long events, starting with the Many members commented on how loneliness and isolation by providing an Christmas concert being held on nice it was to see those they had not opportunity to make friends at a pace 15th December, 2pm to 3pm. Come ran into for a long time. Carol Wilby, that suits them in safe and welcoming and channel your inner Bing Crosby Service Manager, gave a speech about settings. Membership costs just £28 for and get in the festive spirit in our the important part Kindred Spirits plays 12 months or £16 for 6 months. To find out beautiful Victorian music hall!” in members’ lives and she was followed more please call us on 0115 841 4473.

32 | WINTER 2015 www.ageuk.org.uk/derbyandderbyshire What’s On in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire 1 – 20 Dec Santa Specials at Great Free entry. Call 01298 26962. guests Shinedown. Capital FM Arena, Central Railway Take a steam train Nottingham. 7pm. Call 0843 373 3000. through beautiful Nottinghamshire 24 December Wirksworth Crib Service countryside with Santa, depart and return Bring grandchildren dressed up as a 5 Feb Light Night 2016 Do something to Ruddington. Call 0115 940 5705. character from the nativity and watch different on this Friday night and the nativity story unfold during the take part in a fantastic night of 2 – 6 Dec Dynamo Live Tour See service. St Mary’s Church, Wirksworth. discovery as Nottingham comes to Dynamo’s magic skills up close and 5pm. Free entry. Call 01629 824 707. life! Nottingham city centre. 5pm personal in a spectacular and unique till late. Call 0844 477 5678. live stage production. Capital FM Arena, 3 Jan Johann Strauss Gala John Strauss Nottingham. Call 0843 373 3000.. Dancers and Orchestra return with a 5 February The Sixteen: Handel brand new show with its much-loved Dixit Dominus The Sixteen choir 5 – 6 Dec The Great Christmas Show music, delightful dancing and dash of and orchestra devote an entire Enjoy a wondrous selection of food, comedy. 3pm at Royal Concert Hall, evening to the glorious music of chocolate, whiskey and wine with feature Nottingham. Call 0115 989 5555. Handel. Derby . 7.30pm. workshops and demos at Wollaton Hall. £9 – £29.50. Call 01332 255 800.. 10am – 5pm. Call 0115 876 3100. 7 January The Pitman Poets Celebrating triumphs, tragedy, humour and 9 – 10 Feb Strictly Come Dancing 6 December, Belper Winter Food, Real hard times of North-East England’s 2016 Judges from the TV series Ale & Craft Festival Attracting thousands coal mining tradition in an evening are back, audience can experience of visitors, it is a perfect day out for food of music, song and spoken word. everything they love about the TV lovers, on and around King Street, 10am Chesterfield Pomegranate Theatre. show live on stage. Capital FM Arena, – 4pm. Free entry. Call 0114 360 3447. 7.30pm. £19. Call 01246 345 222. Nottingham. Call 0843 373 3000.

7 Dec Bromley House Library Tours A 13 Jan £1 Comedy Night See top 15 – 19 Feb Roundheads and little hidden gem in the heart of the city of acts practising their new material and Cavaliers Pikes at the ready! Aim your Nottingham, free tour is available for about support the up-and-coming acts as muskets! Discover what it takes to an hour. 2.30pm. Call 0115 947 3134. they start their careers. Canalhouse, be a soldier. 11am – 3pm at Bolsover Nottingham. Call 07989 454 817. Castle. Call 01246 822 844. 11 December Swadlincote Mega Christmas Market Featuring Christmas 22 January Sinfona Viva at Derby 17 – 20 February National Winter Ales stalls, fairground rides, carol singing and Cathedral Principal Conductor Duncan Festival Enjoy the prestigious Champion more. Swadlincote town centre. 9am – Ward and Sinfonia Viva start their Winter Beer of Britain competition in a 2pm. Free entry. Call 01283 595 795. new year of concerts in Derby with stunning equal access venue. Derby a bright selection of classics for a Roundhouse. Call 01727 337 854. 12, 13, 19 & 20 December Tapton Lock winter’s evening. Derby Cathedral. Santa Special Boat Trips Take your 7.30pm. £20. Call 01332 255 800. 27 February Fawlty Towers – The grandchildren on a boat trip to see Dinner Show A spectacular tribute to Santa – you get a drink and mince pie! 27 January Sarah Millican – Outsider the iconic British sitcom. Everything Tapton Lock, Chesterfield. Various An evening of comedy. Buxton Opera that can go wrong will and as you, times. £6. Call 01629 533 020. House. 8pm. £28. Call 01298 72190. the dining audience are part of the show. Makeney Hall Hotel. 7.30pm. 15 & 16 December Floral Demonstration: 28 Jan Reduced Shakespeare Company £42.50. Call 01332 593 939. Christmas at Chatsworth Discover tips Join the madcap men in tights as they and techniques to adorn your homes for weave their wicked way through all of 27 – 28 Feb Peppa Pig’s Surprise Christmas using natural decorations. Shakespeare’s comedies, histories Enjoy fun, games and surprises with 11.30am, 2.30pm. £30 (includes admission and tragedies. Nottingham Playhouse, new songs and new life-size puppets to house and garden). Call 01629 824 003. Nottingham. Call 0115 941 9419. perfect show for all pre-schoolers. Royal Concert Hall. Call 0115 989 5555. 20 December Candlelit Carol Service 29 Jan The Carnival of Madness A debut All Age and Traditional Candlelit Carol appearance on UK shores with Kentucky Service, Trinity Church, Buxton. 6.30pm. Rockers, Black Stone Cherry and special

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