< Previous60 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYCARINGCliff Bradley & SonsFuneral Directors LtdFor a prompt, sympatheticservice from a recognisedfamily businessPrivate Chapel of RestDay and Night ServicePre-paid funeral plans41 Heaton Street,Gainsborough, DN21 2EA(01427) 810619www.cliffbradley.co.ukNEED CARE???Savings over £23,250???You are a ‘SELF FUNDER’.The Local Authority will charge you£445to help put your care together.Our service promises are that:•We will be cheaper•We will be quicker•We will offer you more choice of who provides your careAgeCareAdvicePlease call or email01476 552137 or 07772 992732agecareadvice@gmail.comwww.agecareadvice.co.ukat home, but it’s worth keeping in mind that thefinal decision should ultimately be the personmaking the move. Is there a good reason forgoing into full-time care? The only two reasonsone should accept is that there is a risk to yourhealth of staying at home, or that you genuinelywant to make the move, be it for company, moreactivities or simply a more relaxed atmosphere. Aperson should never feel forced to go into care, asthat attitude will simply ensure the experience isnot enjoyable. Thankfully Lincolnshire has a wide variety of carehomes, and because of the pleasant countrysidesurroundings, they often have more space and fresh air thanmany do in other regions. There are more types of careshomes than many immediately realise, from nursing homeswhere one might have dedicated medical staff to help withmany tasks, through to care homes which practice a moreapartment style approach – with central community loungesor recreation facilities. Which one is ultimately chosen shoulddepend on what is needed.As always good mood and happiness can be as good for aperson’s health as medicine, so giving independencewherever possible is preferred. Care from a care home canbe as little as preparation of meals and someone to talk toon a regular basis, or it can be as intensive as medicaltreatment and bathing. It’s therefore necessary to visit andinspect a care home before deciding to go with it, andmaking sure the tenant is happy with what they offer. Many elderly people seek to bolster the interaction theyreceive by taking on pets, and the health benefits of a cat ora dog have been well-documented. Being forced to give upa pet to move into care can be a devastating prospect, so itwould be better to spend some time looking for a carehome which allows pets. It might also be worth asking tospeak to some other residents to get a more unbiasedopinion on how they feel. At the very least look to see ifthey are acting happy with their home. Beyond that, askabout the facilities they have available, what they can offerin the case of a medical emergency, but also whatrecreational activities are available for the guests. And thenask the tenant if they would be interested in those activities.It’s not much use being impressed by a care home’s Bowlsgreen if the family member doesn’t like the sport. Ultimately, it needs to be kept in mind that the change isnot only going to be for the safety and security of thoseinvolved, but also for their happiness. And as such theyneed to be consulted at each stage to ensure they aresimply not agreeing in efforts to not seem a bother to theirfamily. When it comes to the future of loved ones however,no one wants to take shortcuts. 58-60_Layout 1 16/12/2016 11:36 Page 3Okay, so the weasel might not be quitethe pragmatic menace some make it outto be, but the animal has carved out areputation. Because of its swiftmetabolism, the weasel must consume atleast one-third of its body weight everyday just to fend off total starvation. Withsuch high stakes, Mother Nature has leanta helping hand and kitted the critter outwith some evolutionary perks. Its longslender body and short legs make itideally suited for ferreting down rabbitholes and raiding warrens, while longdistance jumps and fast chases make it atricky devil to catch. Even if anotheranimal caught up to the weasel, sizemakes little difference. It can take downprey 10 times its own body weight andwill attack rabbits with nonchalance.They’ve even been known to turn onhumans in certain circumstances. It doesn’t take a naturalist to see thatthe weasel bears a similarity to the stoatand polecat – each are typified by asimilar physique and mannerisms but theyall sport quirks and foibles unique to theirrespective species. Weasels have anorangey-brown, burnt umber back with athe leftovers for later. Having evolved incold climates, weasels know a thing ortwo about surviving. What has baffledscientists, however, is the animal’sdancing. Yes, you read that right. Weasels,as well as stoats and ferrets, all performwhat has been dubbed the ‘weasel wardance’ when they have cornered theirprey. Although the jury’s still out as to whythis behaviour takes place, the presidingtheory is that it hypnotises prey. That said,weasels have been known to shake aboogie when there’s no one else around.Well, we’ve all got to blow off steamsomehow. Despite its reputation as a hardy beastslayer, the weasel is undeniably adorable.It’s dancing and staccato movements onlyadd to its charm. Gamekeepers mightberate them, and they will probably attackor spray with their stink pouches anyperson who got too close, but the weaselrepresents the weird whimsy of Britishwildlife perhaps better than any otheranimal.Beneath its adorable veneer, Britain’s smallest carnivore is known tohypnotise prey and scarf down a third of its body weight each day. Lincolnshirewildlifewhite throat and belly. It’s smaller than astoat, with a relatively shorter tail absentof the black tip that characterises itsgenetic cousin. As well as re-enacting the animalkingdom equivalent of David and Goliath,the weasel also feeds on smaller mammalssuch as voles and mice, as well as smallbirds. They have even been known tosneak into chicken coops and tuck intoeggs. Diet can depend on habitat, andwhen it comes to where to live, theweasel isn’t picky and can be found allover the county in woodland, grassland,hedgerows, heathland and moorland. As an adept hunter, the weasel isn’twithout some more unusual practices.One example sees it killing more than itcan eat when prey is plentiful and keepLINCOLNSHIRETODAY6161_Layout 1 16/12/2016 11:35 Page 162 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYIt’s been an interesting year for newmodel launches in 2016, but 2017 looksto be even better with some great carsscheduled to arrive to our shores. Here’sour run down of just a few models buyerscan look forward to.First up is an Abarth version of the Fiat500X. The manufacturer has been tryingto keep their cards pretty close to theirchest on this one but we’re reliablyinformed the Abarth 500 X will bepowered by a 200bhp version of the 1.4litre four cylinder turbocharged engineused in Fiat’s spider. In addition, for theestimated £25,000 price tag that is beingmuted we anticipate: loweredsuspension, bigger wheels a sportsexhaust and spoilers to complete theAbarth look as well as plenty of decals. There’s also news of a new Ford Fiestain early 2017, with a new upmarketinterior to woo buyers and a newinfotainment system with touchscreen,although readers would be forgiven forwondering why this has been sadlylacking for so long. The new Fiesta willcome at a premium though and is likelyto take the humble supermini over the£13k price mark. From the same stable you might wantto watch out for Ford’s new Focus RS500in the latter half of 2017. It’s rumouredthat the current model’s 345bhp enginewill be upgraded, but details are prettyscant on what will replace it. We’llendeavour to keep readers posted as theword is that the new model will only beproduced in limited numbers so shouldbe snapped up pretty quickly, despite its£35,000+ price tag.The SUV market sees a new arrival tooin the shape of Alfa’s new Stelvio. Thecompany are pinning big hopes on thisjudging by their sales targets of400,000units a year but this isgood news for buyers itshould ensure the Stelvio has plenty tooffer. Tipped as having an eight speedtransmission and a powerful 2.2 litrediesel engine under the bonnet the pricetag for this model is expected to be a tadover the £30,000 mark, although thatcould change in line with currencyfluctuations.Another new model, from the samemarque, is their new compact execsaloon and talk of a larger executivemodel to challenge BMW’s 5 series.There’s even talk of a beefed upQuadrifoglio model to take on the BMWM5 and Mercedes AMG E 63.Meanwhile, Audi hot on the heels ofMercedes and BMW, who have alreadyrevealed a new 5 series for 2017 are saidOut with the old andin with the new62-63_Layout 1 16/12/2016 12:28 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY63to be planning an all new A6. Readerscan expect a much lighter car, newchassis and powertrains, and of coursenew, improved efficiencies. If that’s not enough from the GermanMarque, you might also want to watchout for the new Audi A8 – a £60,000+model inspired by the Prologue conceptthat we revealed in our magazine back in2014. The entry level model is tipped tobe powered by a 3.0 litre V6, althoughV8 versions in both diesel and petrol arelikely to be available too, plus a top of therange S8.We’re also looking forward to BMW’sseventh generation of the 3-series, whichapparently benefits from the brand’sexpertise in carbon fibre constructionmeaning a much lighter, faster and moreeconomical model. Petrol and dieselpower units will sit under the bonnet butwill be joined further down the line by aplug in hybrid model offering similar fueleconomy to the i3. We ‘re expecting theprice tag for 1.5 litre versions to bearound £30,000 and rising for the 2.0litre and plug in models, the bad news isthat readers might have to wait until latesummer before they arrive; but we’ll keepyou posted.Other models to watch out for areHonda’s new Civic type R, based on theconcept at the 2016 Paris motor showand can be expected in the latter half ofthe year. There’s also a new sports modelfrom Kia inspired by the GT concept wesaw a couple of years back and for thosewith deeper pockets Lexus’ latest take onsports cruising with their LC around thespring. The price tag for the latter is likelyto be around the £90k mark for whichreaders will get exhilarating performanceand seductive looks that will make theMercedes S Class coupe look almostretro. Last but by no means least is the newLand Rover Discovery which is due inspring 2017. This 5th generation modelgets revised engines a new platform andgrater levels of creature comforts as wellas improved fuel efficiencies. All thiscombined is ushering pundits to predicthigher residuals making the model agreat proposition for those who lease orpurchase on payment plans.COUNTY MOTORING62-63_Layout 1 16/12/2016 12:28 Page 264 LINCOLNSHIRETODAYCOUNTY MOTORINGThe reality is that you probably won’tdrive this Flying Spur; you’re more likelyto hire a chauffeur to pilot it for you.That’s because, if you’re a high rollingbusinessman – or woman – you’ll want toturn up at meetings as relaxed aspossible. And stress-free you will be if you kickback in the Spur. The seats mouldthemselves around you; the car is bigenough for four adults, and the world willpass you by silently – thanks to thesuperior sound proofing.Powering the Flying Spur is a 6.0 litre,twin turbo, 12-cylinder engine, coupledto an eight-speed automatic transmission.Developing eyeball popping pulling-power, the Bentley sprints from 0-62mphin 4.6 seconds and it is capable of alicence-losing 199mph. However, this rateof knots is harnessed well. You see, poweris delivered to the road via all-wheeldrive. This gives you a sure-footed,engaging driving experience in all roadand weather conditions.As well as high levels of comfort andrefinement, Bentley’s styling team hasdeveloped an athletic designfor the Flying Spur thatbrings together time-honoured icons, suchas the celebratedwinged “B” badgeand up to datedetails, such asmonumentally largetwin exhaust tailpipes.Step inside thecavernous cabin and it isimmediately apparent Bentley’sinterior designers have gone totown on ensuring a lavish, yet hi-techenvironment. Advanced acoustic andelectronic technologies are seamlesslyharmonized with hand-crafted leatherhides and wood veneers.The Bentley’s interior treats include aneight-inch central touchscreen withoptional TV tuner, a 30 GB on board harddrive and a wi-fi router. However, as thecar has been made as much fordiscerning passengers as for the personbehind the wheel, rear seat leisure iswhere it really counts. BentleyFlying Spur There’s an entertainment suite and acustom-built hand-held touch screenremote which allows anyone sitting in theback to control features from the comfortof their seat. What’s more, an eight-speaker audio system provides highquality sound clarity. The Bentley Flying Spur has got to bethe choice of car for anyone whoappreciates exquisitely appointedcars. Needless to say, it makes you a starjust by sitting in it. 64-65_Layout 1 16/12/2016 11:24 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY65COUNTY MOTORINGFAST FACTSMax speed:199 mph0-62 mph:4.6 secsCombined mpg:19.6Engine:5998 cc 12 cylinder 48 valveturbo-petrolMax. power (bhp):616 at 6000 rpmMax. torque (lb. ft):590 at 2000 rpmCO2:332 g/kmPrice:£154,900 64-65_Layout 1 16/12/2016 11:24 Page 2CONTINUE TODRIVESURRENDER MY LICENCEMileage For Life Join us in a friendly and relaxed environmentDo you want help to keep yourlicence for longer?Do you want to enjoy your driving again?Are you over 60 years of age?Add mileage to your lifeNo testing,no examination,just sound advice, for FREETo Book call01522 805800or e-mailbs_lrsp_lincoln@lincolnshire.gov.ukwww.roadlincs.com66-67_Layout 1 16/12/2016 11:22 Page 1Are you a young driver who has recently passed your test?£50To Book call01522 805800or e-mailbs_lrsp_lincoln@lincolnshire.gov.ukwww.roadlincs.comPASS PLUS is here for youOnlyMinimum six hours practical drivingDiverse and challenging driving environmentsThree hour theoryworkshopDevelopingconfidence and skill66-67_Layout 1 16/12/2016 11:22 Page 2RenaultBest Dealer Service and Repair ExperienceGold Winner Book a test driveAll-New Renault SCENICLife. Style.From £21,445 to £30,645*PENTAGON Outer Circle Road, Lincoln LN2 4LD Tel 01522 525060 www.pentagon-group.co.uk ! "# $% &'(''()+/'(&78(9:; % )&(&)(&+'/(&&(':% <8/(&/(+'9(8&(7( =>2 emissions &/+(? % < @ < AGH < JK < @ (M= "# " @=& P9/Q88) P)8)(U V<< Q @ % < @ << < <%J&W 9'(U << @J< Q% Q9XY Q9 @ < < <P)) (68-69_Layout 1 16/12/2016 11:18 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRETODAY69COUNTY MOTORINGInside the Scenic, digital instrumentsreplace the conventional speedo andthere’s a big touchscreen infotainmentunit in the middle of the dashboard. Ifyou can operate an iPad, you’ll be able towork this out quickly. It all looks veryupmarket. But it’s not all about appearances.Behind the all-new Scenic’s stylish bodyand sporty 20-inch alloy wheels, youhave a car that offers a practical transportsolution for a family of five. You neverhave to worry about where to put stuff asthere are loads of oddment bins to keepcoins, cans of drink and even toys. Picnictables in the rear fold out simply and aresturdy enough to put up with kidsleaning on them and eating their lunchfrom.There are several trim levels beingoffered with the Scenic: Expression +;Dynamique Nav; Dynamique S Nav, andSignature Nav. We drove the DynamiqueS Nav which comes with equipment suchas cruise control, a head-up colourdisplay, a rear parking camera, DAB radio,cruise control and a panoramic sunroof. On the road, the Scenic is agile, andvisibility is excellent. The car stays relativelyfree from body roll and offers a firm ride,but not an uncomfortable one. The five-door Renault is very planted at speed, andit certainly feels safe. And so it should,having achieved the top five-star safetyrating from crash test body, Euro NCAP. The diesel is the one to go for if youcan. Our test model had the 1.6-litre110PS unit fitted to it. It gives just enoughpunch to make the car a good, efficientcommuter. Top speed is 114mph, but in acountry besieged by safety cameras, doesa top speed even matter? Not really –what’s more relevant is the 72.4mpg theScenic can achieve with this engine. Ontop of that, you’ve got low CO2emissions of 100g/km, meaning road taxis cheap. As well as being a car for parents whohaven’t given up on style yet, the all-newScenic offers a seriously good seating set-up. One touch folding rear seats foldeasily to give a flat floor. What’s more,the Scenic is the only car in its classwhere you can activate this function frominside the load area – or by using tech viathe multimedia system in the dashboard.The all-new Scenic is also class-leadingwith 572 litres boot space. More thanenough for all the family!Test car courtesy Pentagon, LincolnAll-New Renault ScenicAll eyes on youMulti-purpose vehicle’s, once about as exciting to look at as a wet carrot, aremore attractive these days. You could argue they’re even desirable, especially theall-new Renault Scenic.FAST FACTS Max speed: 114 mph0-62 mph: 12.4 secsCombined mpg: 72.Engine layout: 1,600cc 4-cylinderturbo diesel Max. power (PS): 110CO2: 100 g/kmPrice: £25,44568-69_Layout 1 16/12/2016 11:18 Page 2Next >