< Previous60 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY CARING home, is the cost-of-living crisis. The national charity, Age UK, a leading organisation which advocates for the elderly stated in October, via Caroline Abrahams, the Charity Director: “with the cost of food and energy soaring…. pensioners on low and modest incomes are confronting the fact that basic goods and services are increasingly beyond their means.” So, with Age UK offering objective, up to date advice and options for the elderly, it’s a good call to research the budget available for an elderly relative (Age UK Advice Line open all year - 0800 678 1602). There are some simple ways you can help your elderly family members live a good and fulfilling life, however, and these can make a marked difference. There are always the obvious points of spending time with them or being around more, but it’s worth considering some of the lesser talked about options that can greatly increase both their quality of life, and their health. Firstly, consider helping an elderly relative with technology to better stay in touch with people digitally. Not everyone in their later years is able to use tech devices, for example, a smart speaker which can not only answer questions and play music on demand but can also be used for voice calls once set up - demonstrate how to do something on a smartphone or tablet, writing clear, basic instructions down so they’re not forgotten. It can also be worth contacting local community projects, charities or services - an elderly relative can get involved with a befriending service, a charity that matches volunteers with an elderly person to help with practical things like shopping trips, walking their dog, or groups that meet regularly and do a range of activities. Google, or Facebook community groups, local community hubs, Government websites, churches or community centres all signpost to these kinds of services. Finally, try to help an elderly relative to get out every day if possible - those who have mobility or certain health issues might not be able to but getting out of the house each day, even walking to the end of the street and back can mean interaction with neighbours or passers-by and daylight, fresh air and exercise can also be great for general mental and physical health. Overall, there are many ways help an ageing relative, whether the elderly member in your family is living independently, with you or in a retirement home. Show them that you’re available with regular chats, visits, telephone calls or emails to them (if they are computer literate) - all can help them avoid feeling lonely, useless or bored which prevents depression or exacerbating physical illness. Encouraging an elderly person to open up and express themselves and their wants is essential – and through this, ideas can be discussed and developed, not only to help them but the family too, as all can be reassured that the elderly relative is living their last years both happily and healthily. © stock.adobe.com/luckybusiness 58-61.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2022 14:34 Page 3LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 61 FAMILY MATTERS The importance of early divorce advice Lisa Boileau, Partner & Head of Family at Wilkin Chapman. Believe it or not, it is possible to have a good divorce: One in which both parties separate agreeably and on a sustainable footing, with wellbeing and emotions taken into account. If you are considering divorce, these tips can help the proceedings go as well as possible. 1. Get advice early. Many people don’t seek advice when their relationships break down and instead start making decisions for themselves. When they finally consult a solicitor, they may find they have agreed to arrangements which are not in their best interests, potentially costing more money, time, heartache and legal fees. It’s for these reasons that coming to see us early for initial advice is beneficial. 2. Choose your divorce solicitor wisely. If both parties choose to be represented by reputable firms and experienced practitioners, they have a good chance of a better outcome. At Wilkin Chapman we seek to reduce conflict, put the interests of children first, listen, respect and encourage understanding. We take our role seriously, with every divorce tailor-made to the individual circumstances. 3. Ensure a respectful process. ‘No fault divorce’ was introduced in April 2022, so there is no need for either party to be blamed any more. People separate for all kinds of reasons, and the best lawyers are ones that take a thoughtful and considered approach, doing the right thing in the right way to ensure the best outcome. Need help? Contact Lisa Boileau on 01522 515946, email lisa.boileau@wilkinchapman.co.uk or visit wilkinchapman.co.uk Resolving relationship problems January may be all about the new year and the new you, but that isn’t always a happy thing. Sometimes relationships break apart and need a little freshening up as well. It goes without saying that relationships don’t always last. That’s less a fault of the people involved, and more a natural part of life. The whole point of relationships is to see whether people are compatible together, and sometimes they just aren’t or events can happen that fracture an otherwise strong bond. More and more people nowadays are eschewing marriage entirely and staying “together” for longer periods of time to make sure that the relationship is strong before committing further. Sometimes, however, events can happen that cause rifts in a relationship, and in those times it’s worth looking toward fixing those problems first and foremost. Communicate: The first step to resolving the problem is open and frank communication, which will necessitate thick skin as those involved will be talking about their faults and flaws with one another. It’s important to talk about expectations, and what both parties are looking for in a relationship. Identify the core issues: Sometimes this is easy and sometimes it isn’t. If an event has happened (like the lockdown) which caused a relationship to fray, then ask yourselves if some time apart might help ease it. If, however, the issue is that both partners want something else or have different goals (children for instance) then it might not be possible to resolve, in which case understanding this sooner and splitting amicably can help reduce stress. Be open to change: if you are not open to the idea of changing on some level then it’s inevitable the problem will come again, and it might be time to look at a split. We’re fortunate nowadays that no fault divorces are an option, and that family law has come a long way from what it used to be. While no one likes to talk about the dreaded word, it is a thing, and it’s better for everyone to make the decision early and save heartbreak. © stock.adobe.com/highwaystarz 58-61.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2022 14:34 Page 462 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY COUNTY MOTORING Different Year Hyundai Ioniq 5 Volvo XC40Land Rover Discovery Different Year There are many different cars around these days, so we figured it was worth looking at a few vehicles to tickle your fancy for the new year. Different Cars for a Different Cars for a 62-65.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2022 14:35 Page 1COUNTY MOTORING SUVs Now, nearly every single manufacturer has an SUV on offer these days. The Volvo XC40, is one of the safest examples of this type of car on the market today, while the brand’s XC60 is equally brilliant if you want something a little bigger. Then there’s the Volvo XC90 if you need something even larger. If you’re looking to head into the world of all-electric SUVs, then the keen- handling Skoda Enyaq iV might be a good fit. The larger-than-it-looks Hyundai Ioniq 5 is excellent in every area, too - including comfort and safety. If you’re at the higher end of the market, then the luxurious BMW X5 or the air-suspension of the Land Rover Discovery are both very comfortable. The Audi Q7 is great for luxury but is set up more for driveability, although that’s not to say it’s uncomfortable by any means. Saloons Saloon cars generally don’t have the same level of practicality as SUVs. But for those who need to drive something bigger, they can be a perfect choice. On that note, we shouldn’t forget to mention the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Admittedly, the E-Class has often been seen by some as a car for your retirement (unlike its more personality-driven rival BMW 5 Series), and you BMW X5 Audi Q7 Volvo XC60 Skoda Enyaq iV Volvo XC90 64 Á LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 63 62-65.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2022 14:36 Page 264 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY COUNTY MOTORING may not feel that you want to drive around in something that effectively tells the world your age. Nevertheless, the reality is that the E-Class has been given a radical makeover in recent years. It has got sharper looks but has lost none of the good features that made it perfect for business-oriented drivers, notably that it’s luxurious, spacious, and practical. However, the air suspension that we’d recommend to maximise comfort is an optional extra. Likewise, the 5-Series is a best-of-all-worlds contender that blends comfort with space, practicality, technology, and keen driveability. Mercedes-Benz E-Class BMW 5-Series Audi A6 Volvo S90 Skoda OctaviaMazda 6 Skoda Superb 62-65.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2022 14:36 Page 3LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 65 COUNTY MOTORING Tel: 01472 812130 www.lincsvwa.com Unit 3, Woodside Park, Station Road, Tetney, Grimsby. DN36 5HX Find An Experienced Motor Mechanic In Tetney, Near Grimsby n Servicing n MOTs n Repairs n Brakes & Tyres n Engine diagnostics n Car Batteries n Exhausts n ECU Remapping n Air Conditioning Testing/repairs/Re Gas VW, AUDI, SEAT & SKODA SPECIALIST The Audi A6 is also worthy of mention for similar reasons. If, due to the cost-of-living crisis, premium brands are out of your price range for the time-being, the excellent Skoda Octavia might suit. It has got a classy cabin and is very comfortable to drive while still being a practical and well- equipped choice. The Volvo S90 is refined in terms of ride comfort, too. While if you want something cheaper that’s good to drive but is also quite supple in terms of suspension, then the Mazda6 is well worth checking out. The Skoda Superb is a car that also lives up to its name. Skoda now makes some of the best executive cars on the market outside of the premium brands, and you might find you get more for your money versus a Volkswagen. Estates If you’re after something with the platform of a saloon but the practicality of an SUV, then why not consider an estate? BMW has long been an advocate of the estate car. Its 5- Series Touring version is arguably the best of the lot, with rear air suspension as standard and a good line-up of engines to suit economy and power, including a plug-in hybrid version. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate BMW 5-Series Touring Audi A6 Avant Mercedes-Benz is getting in on the act, as well, with the E- Class Estate, which offers all the benefits of the saloon with increased practicality. At the same time, the Audi A6 Avant might be worth adding to your list, albeit we’d recommend the optional air suspension to improve the ride comfort. Regardless of what car you’re after, write up a shortlist and make sure you test drive each one before committing to buying or leasing anything. 62-65.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2022 14:36 Page 466 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY COUNTY MOTORING Ford Mustang Mach 1 Review More than a muscle machine In layperson’s terms, this should be quicker, more aggressive-looking and have superior handling than a standard Mustang. Ford is positioning the Mach 1 as a track car. The Shelby variants of the Mustang aren’t available on these shores, so the Mach 1 is the go-to motor for those who want a Mustang capable of more than just being a muscle machine. The automaker hopes that’s been achieved by stiffening up the suspension, introducing a limited-slip differential and fitting Brembo brakes. That is in addition to a host of other modifications, including adaptive dampers. 460PS is offered, too, thanks to the 5.0- litre V8. You get a ten-speed automatic, too, which is good, but sometimes it doesn’t know which gear to be in due to having too many choices. As you’d imagine, the noise the Mach 1 makes is joyful. Zero to 62mph is dispatched in 4.4 seconds, and it feels as powerful as it sounds. There is also an aerodynamics upgrade that increases downforce by around a quarter, which aids the handling. The steering has been sharpened up, If you’re under a certain age, you might not appreciate the significance of ‘Mach 1’, but it was a performance-focused variant of the Mustang from the 1960s. 66-67.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2022 14:37 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 67 COUNTY MOTORING making the Mustang more precise and easier to place around a bend - something the standard car is less adept at. The suspension means there’s little to no springiness in the ride, but while the Mustang has never been a Rolls Royce in terms of ride comfort, it isn’t back breaking. Inside, the seats are comfortable, and, for a sports car, it’s pretty handy, with decent storage, silver trim and an infotainment screen with Ford’s SYNC 3 system. Regarding running costs, it’s best you don’t ask. We didn’t get above 17mpg, although the official figure is 24.1mpg - and you’ll be road-taxed to the hilt. But this is a revival of the 60s/70s Mach 1 spirit, and as a result, it’s very much one for you if you’re a purist, collector, or Mustang fanatic. Fast Facts Ford Mustang (Mach 1) as tested: Max speed: 155 mph 0-62 mph: 4.4 secs Combined mpg: 24.1mpg Engine layout: 5.0-litre V8 Max. power (PS): 460 CO2: 270 g/km Price: £62,075 66-67.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2022 14:37 Page 268 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY what’s Mablethorpe January 2 Dance Free - Theddlethorpe Beach Dance Free is free-movement dance using silent disco headsets held at varying beautiful locations in nature across Lincolnshire. Move freely to get out of mind and into body. Release, energise and connect to you, others and nature. Start the year with an uplifting morning moving freely on the beach, energising your body and soul! Grantham January 9 - 21 Paul Bilbrough Photography and Neil & Viv Photography Display - Guildhall Arts Centre Following a successful exhibition in November 2022 at the Carre Gallery in Sleaford, Paul Bilbrough Photography and Neil & Viv Photography are again displaying their photographic exhibition in Grantham. Photography is their passion and they have for the purpose of this exhibition specialised in capturing images reflecting the scenes that would have been in evidence during World War II and still life images respectively. Scunthorpe January 13 80S LIVE - The Baths Hall You may have heard of throwback Thursday, now it’s time for the ultimate throwback decade - 80s Live! Travel back in time to one of the most iconic eras of music for an exciting night out - put your hands together and get into the groove as live band ‘Electric Dreams’ perform over two dozen chart topping anthems from artists including Duran Duran, Dexy’s Midnight Runners, Culture Club, Kim Wilde, Rick Astley, The Human League, A- Ha, Tears for Fears, Wham and more! Stamford January 13 Jazz in The Cellar Bar, Chris Gumbley Quartet - The Cellar Bar Presenting an exciting program of new arrangements of classic jazz repertoire, this Quartet is led by virtuoso saxophonist Chris Gumbley, fronting a band of some of the UK’s top jazz instrumentalists: Chris Gumbley – Saxophones, Matthew Ratcliffe – Piano, Gavin Barras – Double Bass, Andrew ‘Woody’ Wood – Drums. Spalding January 14 Planet ABBA - South Holland Centre This ABBA tribute band is a professionally choreographed stage show, with many costume changes, and faithfully encapsulates the sights and sounds of ABBA and their endless stream of unforgettable hits. Boston January 27 Beauty and the Beast: Ballet Theatre UK - Blackfriars Theatre Join Ballet Theatre UK for one of the most enchanting love stories of all time, Beauty and the Beast. Inspired by the original tale, this production tells the story of Belle, a beautiful and intelligent young woman who feels out of place in her provincial French village. When her father is imprisoned in a mysterious castle, Belle’s attempt to rescue him leads to her capture by the Beast, a grisly and fearsome monster. Set to a stunning classical score, this production will showcase new choreography by artistic director, Christopher Moore, as well as feature new sets and costumes created especially for this production. © stock.adobe.com/redfox331 68-71.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2022 14:38 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 69 70 Á Lincoln January 14 Made in Tennessee - New Theatre Royal Country fans are given a taste of Nashville with Soul Street Productions’ brand new show, Made in Tennessee - the soundtrack of American Country. With a band made up of some of the UK’s finest country musicians, Made in Tennessee takes you through the decades of the nation’s fastest growing music genre, from Country’s origin in the Southern States of America to modern day Country heard around the world. Featuring classics from Johnny, June, Dolly, and Hank, legends like Garth Brooks and Carrie Underwood, and modern country superstars such as Kacey Musgraves and Chris Stapleton. Grantham January 26 - 27 I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change - Guildhall Theatre I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change is a witty musical that tackles modern love in all its forms, from the perils and pitfalls of the first Lincoln January 26 Comedy Night at the Royal - New Theatre Royal New Theatre Royal brings you its first Comedy Night of the year. Three brilliant comics — Jamie Sutherland, Nick Wilty, and Mike Gunn — have been invited to the stage for a night of sharp, witty stand-up! If you're looking for the perfect date night, catch-up with friends, or a pick-me-up, this is the night for you. © stock.adobe.com/fergregory Lincoln January 13 Wine Escape Lincoln - DoubleTree by Hilton Lincoln Hotel Experience a 1920s murder mystery...with a twist! Wine Escape, the UK’s first immersive escape room event is coming to Lincoln in January as part of a brand-new tour. Guests will enjoy a night of glamour and 2 course meal following fun problem-solving games to beat the ticking clock. Step back into the roaring 1920s and enjoy the glamour and extravagance of Hawker Wine Estate. You have been invited to an exclusive party hosted by the very wealthy owners, the Von James family. But the celebrations turn sour when a storm of vengeance, lies and deceit ruins the evening. You must stick together, hold your nerve and beat the clock in order to escape Hawker alive. © stock.adobe.com/kharchenkoirina 68-71.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2022 14:38 Page 2Next >