Your questions
Q
My husband has a drawer full of batteries, none of which he’ll throw away just in case they’re ‘still good’. Is there any way of testing them?
B Harris, by email Yours says This inexpensive Mercury Universal Battery Tester will test all batteries from button cell to 9v and most sizes in between so you can see which still have charge.
Amazon. co.uk from £6
Q
Years ago I wrote a book which
I’d like to submit for publication but they will not take a handwritten manuscript. Is there any way I can transfer this to a typed document on the computer without typing in the whole thing manually?
Hayley, Margate
Yours says There are several optical character recognition (OCR) tools and apps available which will digitise your handwriting.
A popular one is the Pen to Print app, which is available on Android and iPhone and can be used to scan, recognise and convert handwritten documents into digital text that can be edited and searched.
Q
How do I find a local book club?
Marion, Dorset
Yours says Check at your local library. They may run a book club or know of local meet-ups. Alternatively, visit the Reading Groups For Everyone website. Just enter your postcode and it will suggest book clubs, including virtual ones, in your area and an indication of group interests, eg women-only, crime fiction. There’s even resources on how to set up your own book club.
■ Find out more at www.readinggroups.org or why not join the Yours Book Club at www.facebook.com/groups/yoursbookclub
Q
I exercise by walking more but my feet and knees always ache. I also have very wide feet. Can you recommend a shoe that would be really cushioning for me without being too frumpy?
Marie, Bath
Yours says Cosyfeet’s diabetic-friendly Tango shoe cushions the joints of your feet, knees and ankles as you take each step, helping to keep you active in comfort.
In 6E width as standard, it’s available in sizes 4 to 9 including half sizes, in a choice two colours, from £70.83 (if you qualify for VAT relief).
■ Call 01458 447275 or visit www.cosyfeet.com/tango
Q
I need a stairlift but have an unusual staircase. I’ve contacted several companies, but they’re either prohibitively expensive or just can’t help me. Any suggestions?
D Bertles, Cromford Yours says Contact your local Social Services Occupational Therapist who may be able to recommend a smaller local company who can create something bespoke for you. If you are in receipt of Pension Credit you may qualify for a Disability Living Grant to help pay for it too.