Month: April 2015 Issue No: 97 Independent monthly community news and business directory for KT5 & KT6
Delivered free each month to homes in Berrylands, plus Surbiton or Tolworth
Inside this month:
* Recipes for Easter * Puzzles * Community pages and Events New articles: * Pets Behaviour
“Problems With your roof?..� 0208 408 3030
ON PAGE 30 7
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Hello Readers
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hank goodness the worst winter ever, is over!! Hopefully we can look forward to better weather now.
In this issue we have some new articles, which I hope will interest you. There is one on Pets’ Behaviour, starting with cats. As a cat owner, it is interesting reading. Perhaps you would like to own a cat? Check out the Cats’ Protection advert for a really worthy cat looking for his ever after home. With the hope of Spring and Summer, the fairs are starting with the Lamb Spring Fair, with all local produce and hand made items. I hope that other Summer events will be sent in for the What’s On page. Talking of Spring, I am writing this whilst on holiday in New York, and the clocks went forward at the weekend, So Spring is here in the Big Apple! But you would be confused, when you see all the snow still in piles by the roadside! The sun is shining, the wind is up and as we walk around it is very bracing!
All systems are gearing up for the Annual Surbiton Food Festival in May, keep an eye out for information on participating restaurants and food shops. At the risk of repeating myself, A Berrylands Companion magazine will be celebrating 100 issues in the summer and the 10th Anniversary edition in November. If you have a testimonial to share, please send it in to me, and thank you. If you have a new business locally, advertise in the magazine! Just call me or email me with your details. I look forward to hearing from you. With best wishes for a Happy Easter,
Karen
Useful Numbers Kingston Council www.kingston.gov.uk Trading Standards Refuse Collection Electoral Registration Council Tax Citizens Advice Customs & Excise (VAT) Inland Revenue Helpline Environmental Agency Surbiton Library Kingston Police Non Emergency Police Emergency Services Non Emergency NHS Transport: National Rail Enquiries Public Transport Traveline Gatwick Airport Heathrow Airport
020 8547 5757 020 8547 4654 020 8547 5560 020 85474630 020 8547 5196 0870 126 4019 0845 010 9000 08459 000 444 0870 850 6506 020 8547 5006 020 8541 1212 101 999 111 08457 484 950 0870 608 2608 0844 335 1802 0844 335 1801
Emergencies/Utilities: Gas Emergency Electricity Emergency Water Emergency BT Fault Line Virgin Media Crimestoppers Kingston Hospital NHS Direct (24/7) Childline Samaritans Age Concern Kingston Relate www.relatekh.org Domestic Violence Helpline www.victimsupport.org.uk Surbiton Safer Neighbourhood Team based at YMCA
0800 111 999 0800 783 8866 0845 920 0800 0800 800 151 0845 142 0000 0800 555 111 020 8546 7711 0845 4647 0800 1111 0845 790 9090 0800 00 99 66 020 8549 3318 020 8547 3202 020 8721 2518
A Berrylands Companion
18 Kingsdowne Road, Surbiton, KT6 6JZ 020 8274 0096 karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk www.berrylandscompanion.co.uk Please mention A Berrylands Companion when responding to adverts
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Could you be a volunteer? Can you help with just a few hours a month?
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ingston Hospital is hoping to recruit some volunteers to help with their volunteer Dining Companions programme. The Dining Companions help out across the majority of our wards at either lunch (12.30pm) or dinner (5.30pm). It can be for as little as an hour a week ensuring that every patient is offered support at mealtimes. This can be simply cutting up food or taking off cellophane for the patient or sitting and chatting with the patient if they would like company. We give each volunteer 1.5 hours of training so that they feel comfortable knowing what is expected of them and of course nursing staff are always close by if the volunteer has any questions. We have groups of friends who have ‘adopted’ certain wards and they selfmanage a rota to ensure there is daily coverage and if the group is large enough they might
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only volunteer every couple of weeks. We ask prospective volunteers to complete a simple application form and we are required to carry out a criminal records check on everyone unless they already have a current valid one. For more information email: volunteering@kingstonhospital.nhs.uk or call 0208 934 3620 Richard Coxon Voluntary Services Manager Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Davies Wood House Galsworthy Road, Kingston upon Thames,Surrey KT2 7QB www.kingstonhospital.nhs.uk Twtter: @KHFTVolunteer
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OVER
This Easter, join our exciting programme for youngsters at Surbiton Racket and Fitness Club!
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says Roy Staniland
t’s time for the Tennis Camps! For the Easter Break, we have as usual organised a stunning set of tennis and training opportunities, in agegroups devised for three-year-olds right up to tenplus, and involving all our twelve Registered Tennis Coaches. It’s a large-scale set of activities and is spread acrosss all nine of our hard courts.
There’s always plenty going on at Surbiton Racket and Fitness Club. Whatever your chosen activity, you can relax in the Clubhouse Bar afterwards for coffee and a range of other drinks.
Our programme operates Monday to Friday and covers the two weeks from Monday 30th March to Friday 10th April. All sessions are bookable by the day or the week. Whatever their age and tennis ability, all our youngsters will find tennis and training routines which will bring out all their enthusiasm and improve their tennis and attitudes to sport.
This prestigious tennis tournament will run from the 6th June to the 14th June, and is open to international players, with both men’s and ladies’ events. All eleven of our superb grass courts will be in use for this. These have as usual been carefully nurtured throughout the winter, and right now, they look in superb condition . Our ground staff are to be congratulated!
We start each morning with the Tots, aged 3-4, then in the afternoon come Mini-Tennis for those aged 5-9, and Full Court sessions for the boys and girls aged 10+. Within these groups players are sorted for age and ability, to make sure that each Tennis Camper can get the most benefit from the programme. So there’s something ideal for every youngster! Our Easter Tennis Camps are always highly popular, so early booking is advised. Call Jess on 020 8399 1594 (ext 205) Meanwhile, everything around the Club is working at top speed as usual! Our spacious Fitness Suite is in great demand at this time of year. The Suite extends over two floors, and offers some of the latest fitness aids, including cardiovascular, resistance machines and free weights. Alongside is our Studio, where we have regular classes on Zumba, Pilates, Yoga and Indoor Cycling. Squash is always a favourite here. We have four stateof-the-art courts, each heated and air conditioned. We have a Squash Club Night every Saturday from 5.30pm onwards; it’s good fun, and you meet new friends and opponents. There’s also a Squash Beginners’ session on Sundays from 5pm to 6pm, and our Squash Leagues run all the year.
Last month I mentioned the international Aegon Surbiton Trophy.
During the Aegon Surbiton Trophy our Members will still have access to the hard courts, three of which are laid with synthetic clay and are very popular with our Members. They’re floodlit, too! While discussing the Aegon Trophy, may I mention again our need for a considerable number of volunteers. These would work around the Club as Court Stewards, or on Information or Ticket Management . Some will be needed as Chauffeurs for the players and officials. Or, can you offer accommodation? For events like this, a number of the players like to take B+Bs in local households, for which the householders receive a modest fee. Please ring me, Roy Staniland, on 0208 399 1594 (ext 204) if you would like to be an Aegon Surbiton Volunteer! Yours sincerely Roy Staniland Director, Surbiton Racket and Fitness Club, Berrylands KT5 8JT 0208 399 1594 info@surbiton.org ww.surbiton.org
We’re a very friendly and sociable Club. We run a range of social activities, such as our regular Quiz Nights, which are usually full up!
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SURBITON BOWLING CLUB Alexandra Recreation Ground, Surbiton
FRIENDS & FAMILY DAYS 25, 26 April & 4 July 2:30 to 6pm and on Tuesday evenings at 5.30 from mid April through to mid September
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Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult Please wear flat soled trainers to protect the playing surface
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For information ‘phone Keith on 020 8390 0638 or email: surbitonbowlingclub@yahoo.co.uk
The Life List Order, Please Politicans, it has been said, are like gritter lorries: never there when you really need them and only partially effective when they do put in an appearance. There are other reasons to cast a cynical eye: 1. Kissing babies. Can you think of any other profession that encourages someone to pick up a stranger’s bawling bairn (i.e. portable germ factory) and then press it to their lips? 2. Staff scrutiny. Using public money to employ relatives without a formal job advert or an interview process. 3. Expenses. Do I really need to say any more on that front?
To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096
4. Privilege. They enjoy subsidised alcohol and tobacco while making decisions that affect what everybody else pays. 5. Propriety. If these ‘lawmakers’ have dubious backgrounds, it’s practically impossible to find out the details through a Freedom of Information Act request - apart from convictions for expenses fraud. Try an Internet search, I dare you! 6. Privilege again. They enjoy a final salary pension that would, and does, make the rest of us weep. 7. Suitability for the role. There’s nothing wrong with having politicians who have only ever worked in journalism, research or politics itself. However, a Transport Minister can - with the aid of a reshuffle - magically transform into a Defence Minister with no prior experience. It’s a difficult a trick to pull off, outside of Westminster, even with a creatively written CV. I’ll give the final word to Plato: “The measure of a man (or woman) is what they do with power.” © Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.com
email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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Put A Spring In Your Step By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk Many of us spend a lot of time on our feet (and if we don’t, we probably should). But often they’re mistreated or neglected, potentially causing problems not just with our feet but our ankles, knees, hips and back too. So with the weather improving and country walks beckoning, how can you keep the spring in your step?
Practise Good Foot Hygiene
Wash and dry your feet thoroughly every day, taking particular care to dry between the toes. Feet can quickly become irritated and sore when they’re sweaty or dirty, and fungal infections such as Athlete’s Foot thrive in the warm, moist areas between the toes.
Beware Foot Bugs
Athlete’s Foot and Verrucas (or more properly, Verrucae) can be contracted from public areas where people go barefoot, such as swimming pools, although many provide pool shoes or antiseptic foot baths. Treat these conditions swiftly before they spread, either by using over-the counter treatments or by seeking advice from your doctor, podiatrist or chiropodist.
Find The Right Footwear Friction from Ill-fitting shoes can cause calluses (hard patches of skin) or blisters,
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while constant pressure on a certain area can cause corns – protruding, often painful areas of hard skin with a rigid core. Blister plasters and corn treatments are available over the counter, but you may need chiropody treatment to eradicate corns for good. Ill-fitting, pointed or high-heeled shoes can also cause a bunion – a protruding big toe joint on the side of the foot caused when the first metatarsal bone and toe bone become displaced. We all know high heels are bad for our feet (and our knees, hips and back). If you really can’t resist: •
Avoid wearing them all the time (could you wear something lower while you’re travelling to your meeting or party?)
•
Vary the height of the heels you wear
•
Buy the lowest heels you can live with
Completely flat shoes can be problematic too, sometimes causing Achilles tendonitis. Always ensure the back of your leg doesn’t feel strained when buying flat shoes – the heel should always be higher than the pad. Flip-flops don’t provide proper support or protection and aren’t suitable for everyday wear, so ignore fashion and save them for the beach.
Shopping for shoes
Our feet usually swell a little throughout the day, so shoeshop in the afternoon to avoid buying shoes that are too tight – and don’t shoe-shop with sore feet. Consider the purpose of the shoes you’re buying, and what you’ll wear with them too. If you’re searching for walking boots, take thick socks along on your shopping trip, but if you’re buying heels that you’ll be wearing with tights, ensure that’s what you’re wearing when you try them on.
Protect your feet when exercising
Wear trainers designed for exercise – don’t be tempted by cheap fashion trainers that don’t provide support or let your feet breathe, as these can cause pain in your back, hips, knees and ankles. Unsupportive footwear and jogging on hard surfaces can cause heel spurs (small bony overgrowth on the heel bone) and plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the band of tissue under the sole. A proper warm up before exercise will help prevent damage to your muscles, tendons and joints. Foot problems such as corns, bunions and plantar fasciitis can be the result of biomechanical or orthopaedic problems, so always consult a podiatrist or doctor if problems persist.
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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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Beauty Spring into Summer by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk Ah spring… time to scrabble in the loft for skirts and sleeveless dresses, pack the winter woollies away and maybe even hit the shops to see what new trends will tempt us. And, of course, it’s not just clothes that change with the seasons. Make-up follows its own fashions and this year there are a few surprises in store. The lightly bronzed skin and pearly pale eyeshadow that we’ve come to expect from spring/summer are making an appearance again, but we’re also seeing bright red lips, black eyeliner and splashes of bold colour.
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angerine is a key colour for spring this year. It can be surprisingly wearable if you stick to just a splash. Think a tangerine clutch, necklace or nail varnish. Not convinced? Apricot is a good alternative. We particularly love the new Colour Crush Nail Varnish in Apricot Kiss, by The Body Shop. It’s quick drying and a steal at £5.
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f you haven’t already booked yourself in for a post-winter facial, now’s the time to do so. Cold winds and air conditioning are not the best combination for great looking skin. A facial can help to give you your ‘glow’ back. Keep the good work up at home, with an all over exfoliation and moisture boost. Think scrubs, oils and nourishing masks. And we mean all over. It’s easy to neglect our hands, lips and feet, so do give them the attention they deserve. Try the Mini Pamper Kit by Olivier Bonas, with its shea butter enriched hand cream and lip balm. £15 from www. oliverbonas.com
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h the joy of opening a pristine new eyeshadow palette. The Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette was on many a girl’s Christmas wish list last year, but it pretty much caused a stampede when it was launched and was out of stock in no time. And for good reason. Urban Decay just know
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how to do palettes. They combine colours that really w o r k together a n d (unlike cheaper alternatives) stay put from morning ‘til night. The latest offering features an array of neutral colours that work on most skin-tones, from shimmering baby pink to smokey-eye essentials. Thankfully, the frenzy has now died down, and you can pick up your new palette from House of Fraser for £38.
to a new fragrance; while we crave warm, sensual fragrances in winter, the new season demands a lighter, fresher scent. The newly released Guerlain La Petite Robe is a good contender, as it teams rose with the freshness of bergamot and just a hint of raspberry. However, if you’re looking for a real showstopper, that’s unashamedly feminine, you can’t beat Lancome La Vie Est Belle. Iris, jasmine, orange blossom and patchouli combine to create a fragrance that will get heads turning. From £45 at Debenhams.
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t is all too easy to get stuck in a perfume rut, spritzing our ‘signature scent’ on day after day. But the more frequently we use a perfume, the less we can detect it. Spring is the perfect time to treat yourself
“The Ultimate Class for Mums and Babies” The Times
KING GEORGE FIELD INDOOR BOWLS CLUB Learn to Bowl, Free Coaching, All Ages & Abilities Welcome Bar . Restaurant Social Events Large Car Park This power walking class, with a mix of cardio, strengthening & toning exercises is proving to be the answer to shifting postnatal weight & re-toning your body after giving birth! • Burns fat, improves posture & strengthens , ITON core muscles • A one hour social class with SURB LDEN, A M time to chat to other Mums • For all levels NEW STON KING of fitness • Suitable for all buggies/pushchairs • It’s fun & your baby or toddler comes too!
Visit www.buggyfit.com www.mumsinshape.co.uk or email: anna@mumsinshape.co.uk
To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096
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Jubilee Way,.Chessington, KT9 1TR Tel: 020 8397 7025 www.kgfindoorbowlsclub.co.uk
email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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The Better Life Ever Green by Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.co.uk
Sometimes it’s easy for me to forget that I grew up in a city. The only planting I did back then was with hyacinth bulbs at school, apart from the time I knocked over Mum’s cactus and repotted it upside-down - it didn’t thrive. For reformed townies like us the Better Life remains a work-in-progress. Much like our garden, there’s always something to be done. Each month brings its own pleasures and responsibilities, keeping us connected to the seasons and the cycle of the year. Now that I have a firm grasp of crop rotation - albeit on a small scale due to the size of our garden - it’s mainly a case of following instructions. It’s a lot like learning the piano though: you have to keep at it and the early starts can sometimes upset the neighbours. Some things take care of themselves. The interlinked water butts, for example, gravity fed from no 1 (aka John Lennon) high up on a wall, have so far kept us fully supplied all the way down to no 4 (aka Ringo) by the front gate. Other initiatives just take a little forethought. Each time
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we walk our neighbours’ dogs down to the woods we bring back a couple of walking sticks to dry out in the wood store. Creating compost seems to me the epitome of a greener existence – taking unwanted waste, using a minimum of know-how and a little forking, applying some patience and finally ending up with good quality, nutrient-rich material for the soil. Anne is really the one with green fingers, while I’m more of an enthusiast. I was, after all, the one who filled the world’s smallest conservatory with 16 sweet pepper plants, each of which reached a height of over 2ft 6ins (I measured them). Even our friends grew tired of filled peppers that year. Growing some of your own veg, whatever your level of confidence or ability, is surely one of life’s great joys. You can get from plot to plate with no food miles, no additives and no packaging. It’s really not difficult to have a go. Spuds can be grown in a hessian bag filled with soil, beans can be sprouted on a windowsill and all some herbs like marjoram or peppermint need is boundaries.
A more dynamic and diverse habitat encourages wildlife, especially pollinators such as butterflies, bees and wasps (yep, they have a part to play too). Again, lack of space is no excuse. We created a mini meadow that covered less than five square feet. The first year we bought seed impregnated paper and now we use yellow rattle to keep the grass down so that the wild flowers can flourish. Beyond the garden, we foraged seasonal wild garlic, apples, chickweed, nettle leaves, dandelion leaves and the ever-popular blackberries (where the freezer comes in handy). Moving forward - and because we live near the sea - I’ve signed us up for a coastal foraging day. I happen to know that there are tasty sea vegetables out there somewhere, as well as plenty of seaweed. It’s another opportunity to go green further afield. Anyway, that’s it for a while. I hope our little adventures have entertained you and hopefully inspired you to seek out your Better Life. Must dash, as Anne’s wants to teach me how to knit!
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Grow Your Own by Pippa Greenwood
I’m a great fan of home grown vegetables, particularly as growing my own allows me to choose to eat only organically grown fruit and vegetables, which are free from chemical pesticides. Those of us with a good sized vegetable plot are lucky, but what if you have only a tiny patio garden or backyard? Lack of open ground does not mean that you have to stick to growing flowers - you can brighten up your backyard and your supper table with some good looking vegetables, home grown in containers. It is important to use large containers. Smaller ones may look fine but most vegetables need an evenly moist compost around their roots at all times, and so a larger volume of compost is much easier to look after. They will need to be positioned in a sunny spot as vegetables won’t crop well in a gloomy position. Growing bags will do but they don’t exactly look good. In addition, they often seem to contain pretty poor compost and, when it comes
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to keeping growing bags adequately watered, they are nothing short of a nightmare. If you want something which really looks good, then large flower pots or planters are the best bet. You can use terracotta, plastic or glazed pots, which can always be used for flowers at a later date if you wish. Good drainage is vital, and so make sure that the containers are well supplied with drainage holes, and that you have a layer of broken pots on top. When it comes to compost I find that either a standard multi-purpose or a multipurpose compost mixed with a loam based compost works well, producing good crops and being fairly easy to maintain. You can incorporate some controlled release fertiliser granules or do as I do and just feed regularly with a liquid feed. There are lots of different vegetables that can be grown in containers but sometimes getting the right variety can make all the difference to how well they perform. Check
labels or seed catalogues and you’ll find that those particularly well suited to life in a pot are described as so. If you like home grown beans you can use any variety of dwarf French bean, or if you prefer, a runner. The miniature runner, ‘Hestia’, has pretty red and white flowers and doesn’t need a support to climb. This year, I’m also going to grow some standard varieties of runner or climbing French beans in pots with supports. I’ve chosen a willow obelisk or wigwam (readily available in garden centres) and bamboo canes in the other. When covered in flower it will look really striking. Cucumbers can be grown in pots; choose a variety such as ‘Patio Pick’ which should manage to crop well despite its small size. Provided you have a large and deep container then courgettes are also well worth a try, and do remember to keep them really well fed. If you like hot pepper and
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have a sheltered, warm spot then you can give these a go as well. I’m trying a few, including the crazy looking, heavy cropping ‘Medusa’ and the pretty but hot ‘Etna’. Salad crops, in particular the many attractive red and pink leaved varieties of lettuce, can all be grown in a growing bag or other container, and are guaranteed to look good. For some really wacky colour try growing the richred stemmed Ruby Chard or ‘Bright Lights’ chard with stems in pink, orange, red, yellow and white. When it comes to maintenance, crops in pots are basically the same as crops in open ground. The main difference is that
anything growing in a pot is more reliant on TLC as its roots will not be able to tap into the further reaches of the soil to find moisture and nutrients. Plenty of food and water is a must, and I tend to use a high potash liquid tomato feed, which works a treat.
Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ veg growing system, biological controls, fleece, copper tape and lots more besides.
If you want to keep the contents of newly filled pots free from slug and snail attacks, try using stickybacked copper tape stuck in a complete ring around the top of the pot or planter – these slimy pests hate crossing it. Once everything is growing well and cropping, don’t forget to pick patio veg regularly if you want the plants to keep cropping.
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Gadgets for Green Fingers
While few of us are likely to spend nearly £900 on Flymo’s latest robot lawnmower, let alone £2,500 for a high-end robot mower, there are lots of garden gadgets that can make life easier and more fun. One of the most useful developments is the arrival of cordless tools ranging from lawnmowers to electric chainsaws. Battery technology has improved dramatically in a very short time, so it’s possible to get tools such as Black & Decker’s 36V cordless strimmer that can cut up to 3,750 metres on a single charge. Just remember to charge them up before you use them, as recharging flat batteries can take a while. If you fancy something a bit less high tech, Japanese horihori knives might be right up your street: the name means “digging digging” and a horihori knife’s straight sharp blade makes it perfect for everything from planting to cutting roots. They can be a little tricky to find, but eBay is always a good source of such tools. Another great tool is the Woodman’s Pal. It’s a little pricey - expect to pay £50 upwards - but it’s really clever and really useful. The Pal was
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originally designed for the US Army in the early 1940s and it’s a cross between an axe and a machete, with a hooked section on the end. That makes it great for clearing all kinds of vegetation, and it replaces a whole bunch of tools including pruning saws, shears, loppers and in some cases, even chainsaws.
(approx £110) tells your phone about indoor and outdoor humidity, temperature and air quality as well as predicting the weather, while Koubachi’s Plant Sensor 2 Outdoor (approx £96) measures soil moisture, sunlight, infra-red light, temperature and more to let you know exactly how well valuable plants are doing.
This year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) featured the usual home entertainment technology, lots of TVs and even more laptops, but it also had an unusually large selection of garden gadgets. One of the cutest was the Green Farm Cube. Another Japanese design, and it’s a hydroponic grow box that enables you to grow plants such as herbs anywhere all year round. At around £120 it’s quite expensive, but it looks great and works well. It’s particularly good for people who want to grow things but don’t have a garden to do it.
Another CES exhibitor, Edyn, promises to deliver the “connected garden” with sensors that analyse the soil, monitor the temperature and even check the weather forecast to help you decide what to plant and how to look after it. The product range also includes smart water valves that automatically water your plants, and solar power means you don’t need to run any cables. It’s overkill for a couple of blooms from Homebase, but if you’re a serious gardener it’s a seriously clever bit of kit. Edyn is currently available for pre-order, and the sensor and water valve are $99 (£65) and $59 (£39) respectively.
It seems that smartphones are taking over every aspect of our lives, so it’s not a surprise that they’re starting to look at our gardens too. App-connected gadgets are everywhere at the moment. Netatmo’s Connected Weather Station
Images left to right: Flymo Robotic Lawnmower; Woodman’s Pal; Netatmo iPhone Weather Sensor; Edyn smart garden sensor
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Windows • Doors • Conservatories Orangeries • Garage Doors • Roofline
Add a New Dimension to Your Home
Our Conservatories, Orangeries and Bi-Folding Doors will completely change the way you enjoy your home.
7 Grand Parade, Ewell Road, Tolworth, Surrey KT6 7BE www.warmlite.co.uk Tel: 020 8399 3377 To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096
email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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Are You Living On A Lonely Planet? by Kate McLelland Most people will experience loneliness at some time in their lives, according to “The Lonely Society”: a report published by the Mental Health Foundation (MHF). The report, based on data provided by over two thousand people, found that 48% of those surveyed believed that Britain is becoming a lonelier place. It’s a typically British trait, but many of us would rather suffer in silence than admit we need some human company. Not wanting to be a burden to others, pride in our own self-reliance and fear of being stigmatised can keep is in isolation and prevent us from reaching out to others. These days, when more of us live in small apartments, work at home and shop and socialise online, face-to-face social interaction is becoming increasingly rare. Older people especially can feel more isolated, particularly if they suffer from ill health or can’t afford to go out. So what’s the best way to overcome loneliness?
Reach out to someone else
The saying “there’s always someone worse off than you” has become a bit of a cliché, but when it comes to loneliness
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and isolation it’s very likely to be true. Over a third of the individuals surveyed in the MFH report said they had a close friend or relative who was “very lonely”, so a logical first step would be to start with the people that you know. We stiff-upper-lip Brits often pretend that everything is all right when the opposite is actually true, so if an isolated friend or relative tells you they are fine, don’t let that put you off from suggesting a gettogether. If you don’t have any personal contacts who are in need of your companionship, then you can always spread the net a little wider. The campaigning and lobbying organisation Campaign to End Loneliness doesn’t recruit volunteers directly but you can visit their website at www. campaigntoendloneliness. org to find information about volunteering opportunities.
Get a new job or share your skills
If you are approaching retirement and dreading the day when you’ll swap the friendly banter of your co-workers for the dubious pleasures of daytime television, you will find an outlet for the skills you have acquired during your working life at
http://ageinginnovators.org. Opportunities include Life Re-imagined: a web platform that helps people re-evaluate their skills and pursue new ambitions, and Vintage Communities, which brings people together to find local solutions to local problems.
Find a new love
Whatever your age and circumstances it’s still possible to find love. These days online dating is accepted as one of the best ways to find a partner, particularly one who shares your beliefs and interests. While it’s sensible to keep an eye out for people who may be less than honest, don’t be put off by scare stories in the press: internet dating is one of the fastest growing, most successful online businesses of the 21st century. If you’re still not sure, visit www. top10bestdatingsites.co.uk to read reviews written by members of the public who have successfully used these dating sites. Of course, you may need a bit of courage to get started - particularly if you’ve lost confidence in your social skills - but once you’ve rediscovered the art of connecting with others, you’ll wonder why you lingered so long on that lonely planet!
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LAMBERT FUNERAL DIRECTORS Independent Family Run Business 17 Berrylands Road, Surbiton, KT5 8QX
£11.95 *Please note King Prawn & Fish Dishes are £2 extra
020 8399 0030/3904 We take pride in providing the down-to-earth, practical, emotional and highly professional service you need when faced with the loss of someone you love. Our Promise: When you intrust us with your loved one, they become our loved one and are cared for as our own and more priceless than a diamond! We aim to alleviate the burden on the bereaved. We are committed to making all of the necessary funeral arrangements. Please contact us for a consultation........
285 Ewell Road, Surbiton
Book now for Valentine’s Day www.prithicuisine.co.uk
M.DUFFELL
Interior / Exterior Decorating Fully Insured References For Free Quotations & Advice
Family business established 25 years
Call:
Tel: 020 8390 6213
www.lambertfunerals.co.uk
020 8390 0383 07989 035 725
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off Hook Road, Surbiton (KT6)
NO JOB TOO SMALL FOR FREE ESTIMATES CALL CHRIS MOULD
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Enquiries: 020 8397 4525
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E Mail chris@cjmplumbingandheating.co.uk
CJM Plumbing and Heating To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096
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Finance Challenger Banks: What they Bring to a Tired Industry By Ann Haldon The UK banking industry has been severely damaged by scandals and misdeeds in recent years. The Libor incident when banks falsely manipulated interest rates, plus the infamous PPI mis-selling scandal, are just two reasons for public unease and mistrust. Poor levels of service and low saver rates have compounded a seemingly irresolvable problem, leaving customers with little recognition of the issues they were facing, and few alternative banking options. But help may be at hand. The ‘Big Four’ - Royal Bank of Scotland, Barclays, HSBC and Lloyds – are now facing competition from challenger banks. New entrants to the banking industry include Metro and Aldermore , plus the reemergence of an old, familiar high street name. We look a little closer at some offerings from these new banks, and see if they could really be a credible threat to established institutions. An old name on the high street Not really a challenger bank, but a familiar name with a ‘new’ offering is TSB. Their strap line, “We’re different,” plus market positioning as champions of “local banking” offer a level and type of service once taken for granted when banking was a service industry rather than a huge selling machine. Current account • Classic Plus Account: credit interest rate of 5% variable AER on balances up to
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£2,000; minimum of £500 per month to be paid in; no monthly fee. Fixed Bond • Fixed interest rate of 1.35% gross/AER on £2,000+ for two years; interest paid monthly or annually. Credit card • 0% interest on purchases for up to 13 months if the 7-day switching service is used. Metro Bank Metro Bank operates from ‘stores’ throughout the southeast of England, with the emphasis firmly on convenience for their customers – stores are open 7 days per week, 362 days of the year. They have a familyfriendly policy that includes the Money Zone programme, in which they help children and students to learn about money management. Current account • No monthly fee; MasterCard contactless debit card; free transactions in Europe; cheque books printed while you wait. Fixed term savings • 3-year fixed rate account; annual interest rate of 1.90% gross/AER; choice of fixed rate terms of 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months and 3 years; interest paid monthly or annually; minimum lump sum deposit of £500. Credit card • MasterCard contactless credit card; free transactions in Europe; no annual fee. Aldermore Aldermore has no branches,
choosing to operate online and via telephone banking. This allows it to keep down costs, and its streamlined business model has been marketed towards helping small businesses and homeowners in the UK with savings and mortgage products. Fixed rate savings • 3-year fixed rate account currently offering 2.15% gross/AER annual interest; choice of fixed terms between 1 year and 5 years; a single lump sum deposit of £1,000 minimum; operated via the internet, by telephone, or post. The above are just a selection of products on offer by the banks mentioned – there is a variety of other accounts and products that may be more suitable depending on your circumstances. Modern IT systems have allowed these challenger banks to compete on a different platform to traditional high street banks, which are hindered by outdated infrastructures that are costly to maintain. The absence of bricks and mortar outlets also provides an opportunity to loosen the Big Four’s stranglehold on a banking industry desperate for some fresh competition. http://www.paymentscouncil. org.uk/media_centre/press_ releases/-/page/3177/ http://www.tsb.co.uk/ https://www.metrobankonline. co.uk/ http://www.aldermore.co.uk/
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•Extensions BERRYLANDS BERRYLANDS •Conversions Property Maintenance Ltd •All types of Paving
Property Maintenance Ltd
iPainting and Decorating and Tiling * Extensions *iPlastering Conversions * All types of Pavin iHousehold Maintenance and Repairs iBathrooms Fitted and Refurbished Local builders withandover 30 years experience. iCarpentry Plumbing iFlat Packs and Small Jobs
Painting and Decorating Plastering and Tiling Local builders with over 30 years experience. Conversions * All types of Paving Many local customers with excellent references, Household Maintenance and Repairs Marcus &by Sarah Baines viewings appointment Many local customers with excellent references, 020 8390 7549 Bathrooms Fitted and Refurbished viewings by appointment 603a885 Check out 07702 our Check Trade ratings. ers with over 30 years experience. Carpentry and Plumbing Check out our Check a Trade ratings. Flat Packs and Small Jobs 71 Chiltern Drive ,Surbiton, Surrey, KT5 8LR berrylands-property@blueyonder.co.uk
ustomers with excellent references, Tel: 020 8399 6276 Mob: 07941 374 324
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71 Chiltern Drive ,Surbiton, Surrey, 8LR Tel: 020 8399 6276 No KT5 obligation quotations. References available.
• Architectural Services • Residential + Commercial
berrylands-property@blueyonder.co.uk
Extensions or New Build
W.CHECKATRADE .COM,Surbiton, /BERRYLANDSPROPERTYMAINTENANCE iltern Drive Surrey, KT5 8LR • Planning + Building Mob: 07941 374 324 No obligation quotations. References available. Regulation All work guaranteed and fullyConsents insured. Em: bbuildco.@yahoo.co.uk
• Health and Safety
for Construction • Party Wall Awards
Ken Burgess
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K B Design
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Home & Interiors Charming Country Style
By Katherine Sorrell
practicality, cottage cosiness and countryhouse comfort, where furniture, fabrics and accessories of all sorts are completely informal, yet somehow seem to work wonderfully together.
Cosy, comfortable and oh-so pretty, country style has eternal appeal. Think roses winding around the porch, crackling log fires, chickens in the yard and a Victoria sponge cooling on the range cooker. As interiors expert Katherine Sorrell says, who could resist? Do you dream of escaping the rat race for a rural idyll? Moving to the country may be a fantasy for many of us, but even if you can’t actually make the move, you can evoke a charming country style in your home – wherever it may be. The aim is to create a look that appears to have evolved naturally over time. It’s a combination of farmhouse
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Overall, choose either off-white or pastel walls, or perhaps a blockprinted wallpaper, the latter featuring delicate, trailing florals or something more bold and blowsy. Tactile, natural floor coverings such as sisal, jute or coir have the right kind of honest and hardworking good looks, while rugs are warm and practical, be they oriental, Indian, Middle Eastern, rag, flat-woven or needlework. If they are even a little threadbare, don’t worry too much. With furniture, keep an eye on balance and proportion. You can put all kinds of styles together if you keep an eye on their size and scale. It might be a Georgian, Victorian or early 20th century piece, antique, junk-shop, hand-me-down or home-made, but it should never look overtly modern and always be sturdy, simple and generously sized. Squashy sofas, generous armchairs, plain wooden chairs, benches and stools, and the occasional wirework or Lloyd Loom piece are all key. Add dining chairs with ladder or spindle backs, plus a scrubbed-pine table, and complement them with a
large, open dresser. And some distressed paintwork here and there only enhances the overall effect. When choosing fabrics, for curtains, cushions, upholstery, bed linen and so on, don’t go overboard on co-ordination: an informal mix of gently worn patterns gives a lovely effect. Texture is as important as pattern, so opt for a combination that could include florals, tweed, ginghams, stripes, polka dots, paisley, tapestry, embroidery and textured plains such as linen, wool, velvet or mohair. For a hand-made, vintage feel, include some knitting or crochet, too. In style, window treatments should be understated – perhaps a Roman blind with a decorative trim, or a pair of full-length, gathered curtains and a simple pelmet. As for upholstery, ensure it is well-stuffed and comfortable, employing fabric that is warm and welcoming. Piping looks smart and traditional, but the occasional frilled edging can be delightful. Complete the effect with piles of throws, blankets and cushions of all shapes and sizes.
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Lighting can make or break a room, and it’s worth remembering that a single central pendant is rarely the best option. To provide more variety and flexibility, add table and floor lamps to brighten corners and illuminate work areas: wrought iron, brass, turned-wood, frilly-edged glass, plaster or ceramic bases, with understated fabric or card shades, are all great choices. A few candles dotted here and there and, of course, the appealing flicker of a real fire, will really enhance the atmosphere. As for accessories, any number of extra touches will transform your home into a special country retreat. For walls, it might be watercolour landscapes or botanical prints, needlepoint or cross-stitch samplers or wood-block illustrations; silver-framed
family photographs might spread across shelves and mantelpieces. Wicker baskets and wooden boxes make good-looking storage solutions, while it goes without saying that chintz, blue-and-white or spongeware crockery is just the thing for displaying on the dresser. You could make a display from cooking equipment such as jelly moulds or copper pans, or collections of natural items such as pebbles or pine cones. To finish the whole look off, arrange masses of fresh flowers in informal containers – jam jars, mugs or enamel pitchers, perhaps – to give a fresh scent of the country, whatever your location.
Bottom left - Monocle side table, £225, Loaf, 0845 468 0698; www.loaf.com..
Top left - Alderney Armchair in Design Lab Occipinti Wisteria White and Purple, £635, Sofa.com, 0845 400 2222.
Leverett Electrical Ltd
Qualified electrician
Part P registered. All work certified. No job too small. All work considered Quality at the heart of our work
• • • • •
Above - Hand-painted kitchen, from £16,000, Rencraft, 01732 762682; www.rencraft.co.uk.
Installation & maintenance Rewires Security lighting Fire alarms Central heating wiring
Stuart Leverett Office: 020 8390 0617 Mobile: 07710 123 628 Email:contact@leverettelectrical.co.uk www.leverettelectrical.co.uk
QPcalladvert To advertise Karen: 1 020 8274 0096
Leverett ROBINSON & SONLtd Electrical PROFESSIONAL Qualifi ed electrician PAINTERS Part P registered. All work certified. & DECORATORS Est 35 YEARS
No job too small. Wallpapering All work considered INTERIOR & EXTERIOR Quality at the of our work PRIVATE &heart RESIDENTIAL
• Installation & maintenance High Quality • WORK Rewires AT LOCAL RATES professional • Experienced Security lighting Tradesman • Fire alarms FOR heating FREE ESTIMATE •CALL Central wiring
020 8399 9803 Stuart Leverett RECOMMENDATIONS Office: 020 8390 0617 INSURED Mobile:FULLY 07710 123 628 A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS contact@leverettelectrical.co.uk Email: EMail: robinsonandson@talktalk.net www.leverettelectrical.co.uk
email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk QP advert 2
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JAMES ANTHONY DECORATORS
Specialising in quality interior & exterior decorations
Ovenclean will transform your oven and put the sparkle back into your kitchen! ✓ Friendly, professional and reliable ✓ Completely safe, eco-friendly cleaning system ✓ No fumes, no mess, no bother ✓ Removes grease, fat and burnt on carbon deposits from: ● Ovens
● Filters
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Call Sheree today to book your Ovenclean appointment on
01932 706223 www.ovenclean.com
• Domestic and Commercial • Bathroom Refurbishment • Tiling and Plastering • Free Estimate Provided • Fully Insured • 20 Years Experience
07939 333 324 020 8399 9735
jamesanthony36@gmail.com
info@jamesanthonydecorators.co.uk
www.jamesanthonydecorators.co.uk
Berrylands Autocare * MOT
Testing (while you wait)
* Diagnostic Testing
* Servicing & Mechanical Repairs * Open until 5.30pm weekdays * Saturdays: 10.00am to 1.00pm
020 8399 4362
info@berrylandsautocare.co.uk www.berrylandsautocare.co.uk
167 Surbiton Hill Park, Surbiton, Surrey, KT5 8EJ 250 yards from main line Berrylands Station Providing a service for our local community
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25 25
Hobbies It’s Time To Get That Strictly Sparkle By Kate McLelland With an average audience of 10.7 million viewers for the 11th series, it’s clear that Strictly Come Dancing is still one of Britain’s favourite TV shows. In addition to its UK success, the BBC has sold the format to other countries and the show - renamed ‘Dancing with the Stars’ for overseas audiences - is now watched by over 250 million people worldwide. So what is ballroom dancing and why is has it proved so addictive, not only for Strictly’s high profile participants but for the many thousands who take part in social and competitive dance events throughout the world? The term “Ballroom Dancing” refers to a set of partner dances that have their roots in Europe, North America and Latin America. In Europe formal dances began to receive recognition in the late 16th century, when a French writer called Jehan Tabourot published a study of the social dances of the day, including popular medieval dances such as the pavane, galliard and branie. The French enthusiasm for dance continued strongly throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, when Louis XIV decided to found a royal
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academy of music and dance and ordered officials to draw up precise rules for the execution of every dance. During this period the Minuet was the height of fashion. This dance required multiple partners, holding hands at a respectful distance, to move together in formation. In the early 19th century the introduction of the waltz, which required partners to move independently, facing each other in a ‘closed hold’, initially caused outrage as it was thought to encourage scandalous intimacy. The waltz sounded the deathknell of the old-fashioned sequence dances and by the early 20th century the pattern of modern ballroom dancing had begun to emerge. A new wave of music, inspired by black jazz musicians in America, encouraged the development of a range of new dances including the Charleston. The public was hungry to learn these new routines and so a number of enterprising professional dance teachers made it their business to analyse, write down, publish and teach the new moves. If popular dance was to flourish it was essential that people should be able to learn the right
steps, and establishments such as the famous Arthur Murray School of Dance in the USA led the way: bringing dance to the masses. This intense interest in ballroom dance eventually led to competitive events, and the first unofficial world championship took place in 1909. Nowadays referred to as “Dancesport”, competitive ballroom dancing is recognised by the International Olympic Committee. If you’ve been well and truly bitten by the ‘Strictly’ bug, your next step could be to try out some of the dances yourself. Learning to dance is the ideal way to keep fit and ballroom dancing is suitable for people of all ages. It’s also a great way to meet new people who share your passion. Visit www. dancenearyou.co.uk to find the address of a dance studio in your area. Ballroom dance requires a high degree of skill and versatility. It’s attractive and exciting, but it’s also enormous fun. ‘Strictly’ fever is sweeping the nation for good reason and given the renewed interest in ballroom dancing at all levels, it’s a great time to get out there and experience that addictive dancefloor glamour for yourself.
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Interior Design Services
Painting and Decorating Roofing and Guttering Plastering and Tiling Household Maintenance Loft conversions and extensions
Quote this advert to sign up for FREE to my workshop
“Your Style and How to Live with it”
Marcus & Sarah Baines 020 8390 7549 07702 603 885 berrylands-property@blueyonder.co.uk
WWW .CHECKATRADE.COM/BERRYLANDSPROPERTYMAINTENANCE
No obligation quotations. References available. All work guaranteed and fully insured.
www.personaedesign.com sarah@personaedesign.com 07854707999
William Stallion
150 Elmbridge Avenue, Surbiton, Surrey, KT5 9HF
*Alterations & Additions *New Installations *Maintenance *Rewires *Testing & Inspection EICR/PIR *NIC/EIC Registered,insured,certified
Tel: 07828 796 702
willstallion@googlemail.com
DOMESTIC INSTALLER
APPROVED CONTRACTOR
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Mobile bicycle Service & repair
your HoMe | your Work | your ride rebelwaltz-cyclesolutions.co.uk
I can pick up your bike from your home or place of work then return to you at your convenience. From a safety check, new build to a full service, all work and repairs will be quoted prior to commencing. Will contact you immediately if any other defects are spotted so there will be no unpleasant surprises. Free pick up and drop off within a five mile radius of Surbiton. Repair and service prices start from ÂŁ10.00. Please see website for further prices and details.
Contact Jon Martin E: jon@rebelwaltz-cyclesolutions.co.uk T: 07514 435855
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ST R N NO YLE AN EW W S & GE AV C OF AI OL LA OU BL RS E
For a beautiful new kitchen...
just change the doors
Have you always wanted the kitchen of your dreams, but can’t quite justify paying the expensive price tag that comes with it? Now you can by just swapping the doors and worktops.
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• Huge choice of Doors, Worktops, Appliances, Sinks & Taps • Free Estimating and planning • 50% deposit with balance on completion www.dreamdoors.co.uk
For a FREE NO OBLIGATION home visit telephone 020 8399 1226 Or visit our showroom: 406 Ewell Road, View our credentials at Tolworth, Surrey KT6 7HF Email kt@dreamdoorsltd.co.uk 29 To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096 email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
PROBLEMS WITH YOUR ROOF?.. “We are a small Friendly Family Run business that can help you with all your Roofing problems.”
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For your For your
10%
2015 Proof 1.indd ToMarch advertise call 9Karen: 020 8274 0096
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17:04:31
Sassy Stirrers Children’s Cooking Club Spring-time cooking and cookie jar baking & decorating classes 9th and 10th April 10.30am to 3.00pm For Ages: 4-12 yrs Our Lady Of Lourdes Church Hall, Hampton Court Way, Thames Ditton
Your chefs will proudly take their snacks home in an Easter basket with a recipe card and lots of helpful tips. Suitable for children aged 4 upwards.
We have 2 exciting cooking classes planned in the Easter holidays.
£37.50 per place or 2 for £73. Lunch is included. Please telephone 07789 792676 or email info@sassystirrers.com to book your place.
In our Spring time cooking workshop we are going to make delicious hot cross buns, puddings and mini spring rolls plus another snack. Your budding chefs will watch the yeast bubble away & the bread grow as we learn how to make delicious Easter bread - lots of squishing, kneading & rolling!
Like us on Facebook to be automatically entered into future Sassy Stirrers competitions and for information on future workshops and recipes https:// www.facebook.com/pages/SassyStirrers/230402003637795 For information about Sassy Stirrers and our Cooking Birthday parties, please see www.sassystirrers.com
In cookie jar baking we are going to make delicious chocolatey cookies, healthy fudge, pizza and learn new decorating techniques with our professional cake decorator, Mrs Caroline Collins.
Long Ditton Yoga Friendly yoga classes for all levels - beginners welcome. Would you like to:
be fitter? be more flexible? reduce your stress levels?
Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
6:45 - 8:15 pm 9.30 - 11.00 am 6:45 - 8:15 pm
& & &
8:30 - 10:00 pm 11:15 - 12:45 pm 8:30 - 10:00 pm
Long Ditton Parish Hall KT6 5LE. www.longdittonyoga.co.uk enquiries@longdittonyoga.co.uk or call Carolyn on 020 8390 9522
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33
Golden Years Memories of 50 Years Ago by Ted Bruning
The introduction of Capital Gains Tax may have been the most significant measure in Jim Callaghan’s Budget of 6th April 1965. But it wasn’t what grabbed the headlines. The media spotlight fell instead on the announcement of the scrapping of Britain’s most glamorous, most prestigious, and most technologically advanced defence project of the time, possibly of all time: TSR2. It’s easy to forget that until then Britain led the world in aviation. Leaving their wartime achievements aside, in the 1940s and ‘50s British aircraft companies came up with the world’s first jet bomber (the Canberra), first delta-winged jet fighter (the Javelin), first and so far only VTOL fighter-bomber (the Harrier), first Mach 2 fighter (the Lightning), and first longrange jet bombers (the Victor, Valiant, and Vulcan). And that’s only the beginning of British aerospace achievements of the period. The De Havilland
Vampire was the world’s first single-engined jet fighter, the first jet to cross the Atlantic (in July 1948), and the first jet to take off from an aircraft carrier (oh, and to land on one); and in March 1948 it set the world altitude record of 59,446ft. (A few years later a Lightning climbed to 87,300ft!) These achievements were only accomplished on the back of other, less high-profile, advances in fields such as engine technology (English Electric experimented with a rocket-propelled version of the Lightning in the 1950s), avionics, weapons design, navigational radar, and air-to-air refuelling. Even the ejector seat was a British invention. TSR2 was to be the superplane that capped all these triumphs. A Mach 2 all-weather ultra low-level nuclear-capable twoseater penetration bomber and a hyper sophisticated high-level electronic reconnaissance spy-plane, packed with the latest avionics, it was reckoned capable of replacing every strike aircraft the RAF possessed, even the Vbombers. But TSR2’s development
costs overran horrendously; the Navy didn’t want it because it wouldn’t fly off a carrier; constant additions to the original specification handicapped its performance; and its handful of test-flights between September 1964 and March 1965 revealed a host of teething troubles that would be expensive to fix. While in opposition Labour had slated TSR2’s expense; within six months of coming to power they scrapped it. Having promised us the white heat of the technological revolution, Harold Wilson took quite a beating over the failure of TSR2. But he had maths on his side: TSR2 would have cost £16 million per plane and because American planes were built in far greater numbers and were therefore much cheaper, there was no chance of significant export sales. Scrapping it was the right decision. But that announcement in the Commons, mid-afternoon on 6th April 1965, proved the graveside prayer for an independent British military aviation industry. Since then every new RAF combat aircraft – the Jaguar, the Tornado, the Typhoon – has been a multinational effort; only the (comparatively) low-tech Hawk Trainer has been an all-British success story.
On 24th April 1965, 2,000 people gathered at
Malham, Yorkshire, for the official opening of the final section of the Pennine Way footpath by the journalist , rambler, and visionary Tom Stephenson. Inspired by the creation of the Appalachian Way and by the 1932 Kinder Scout Mass Trespass, Stephenson founded the Pennine Way Association in 1938. The 286-mile footpath runs between Edale, Derbyshire, and Kirk Yetholm on the Scottish border.
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Happy 50th birthdays to Robert Downey Jr (4th) and Anna Chancellor (27th). Cake and botox to you both!
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Cat Behaviour Why They Do The Things They Do Marking, scratching and climbing are common feline behaviours, but depending on the circumstances, may not always be welcome. Here are some of the reasons why cats behave the way they do, and what you can do about it. Marking This is often a territorial reaction to stress – maybe the fear that other cats could invade their space. Apart from providing extra love and attention, you need to make sure their eating and sleeping areas are free from other smells, and safe from intruders. Scratching This is an inherent trait in all cats, and enables them to keep their
PETS
claws sharp should they need to defend themselves. A scratching post is the best way to prevent damage to your furniture, and spraying catnip on and around it may help to distract them from chair and table legs. Scent glands in their paws also mean that they may be scratching as a way to mark their territory. Climbing It won’t be unusual to see your cat hanging from the top of a curtain when you go into a room, clinging on for dear life having got to the top and then become stuck. Their natural sense of adventure, plus the need to run off a bit of energy, makes them do things like this. You may even find them looking down on you from the top of a door. It’s usually because they feel more confident when up high, or are simply showing their fun side. By Ann Haldon
Aspen Veterinary Surgery
HOME WANTED!
Your pet matters to us
Mr Chatterbox
“My name is Mr Chatterbox. I am told I am delightful! I am a white and black, neutered boy about 11 years old. I spent last summer wandering as a stray, and because of this I became rather unkempt, very thin and was even a bit bald due to a flea allergy. I was finally rescued by some very lovely, kind & caring people who fed me and gave me shelter and eventually they took me to be cared for by Cats Protection. Since being in care I have undergone a bit of a transformation. I have put on weight, my fur is growing back, all soft and silky and there are no more fleas of course!
Join Aspen Pet Care Plan Save Money, Spread Costs, Pay Monthly, Open Mon-Fri: 8am-7.30pm Sat: 8.30-11am 24 hour Emergency Service
If you feel that you could give Mr Chatterbox a much deserved forever loving home please call Sue on 0208 390 3165 .
www.aspenvets.co.uk 351 Ewell Road, Tolworth, KT6 7BZ
020 8399 6437
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I have blossomed at the CP shelter - everyone loves me and I love everyone! I am very outgoing, playful and I love attention & cuddles and I talk all the time; but much as I am loved at the shelter I am really ready to find my new forever home. I would be such wonderful company for someone!”
As we have around 7,000 cats and kittens in our care at any one time, we will find you the perfect feline friend. www.cats.org.uk Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) and SC037711 (Scotland)
email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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Easter’s almost here, at last!
says Alan Jennings
A
s I write, the days are getting longer, and the weather - let’s be optimistic about it - might just be warming up a little! In my family the longer days always make us think ahead to Easter and maybe the first touches of Spring. It’s always a holiday to look forward to after the drab chilliness of late winter.
of the meat here at Jennings.
Easter this year falls on the first weekend of April, so right now is the time to plan ahead for your celebrations. Lamb is, of course, traditional; not just here but right across the Continent. A leg of lamb, or a shoulder, will be most people’s first choice, but not exclusively; if you’re feeling adventurous you could opt for a saddle or a rack of lamb. And if you’ve got guests to impress, why not go for a glorious Crown of Lamb? If you like, we can put an exceptional Crown together for you.
Later on we will be able to offer you lambs from our chosen farms in East Anglia; at this time of year the weather is usually mild enough to bring on the first flush of new grass, which greatly benefits our lambs.
Although lamb is usually first choice at Easter, some of our customers may prefer one of the big beef joints, like rib of beef, and they always bring marvellous tastes to the table. Talk to us about your needs, especially if you’ve a big party to cater for, and we can advise you well in advance. Many of our customers ask us about the taste of different cuts, particularly when we’re talking about lamb. A shoulder, cooked slowly to bring out all the flavours, is different and perhaps more subtle in taste than a leg, which also has its own distinctive virtues. A saddle of lamb is different again, and so on. I think we all recognise that great taste in meat is a direct reflection of its quality, whether its lamb, beef, pork or poultry. Quality begins with the selection and rearing of each animal, long before the careful professional treatment
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For instance, at this time of year our lambs usually come from the Scottish Highlands, from suppliers we have known and trusted for several decades. Their lambs feed on the mineral-rich pastures of the Highlands, and all of them are reared by traditional methods.
When the lambs reach us we take all the necessary time and care to ensure that the lamb on your table is in the finest condition. As a result, we like to think that nothing surpasses the magnificent quality and succulent flavours of our Scotch lamb. So - Easter’s almost with us, and we look forward to welcoming you here as you prepare for a proper celebration! Best wishes Alan C D Jennings and Sons Traditional Quality Butchers since 1962 146 Ewell Road Surbiton KT6 6HE Tel: 020 8399 4870
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C.D Jennings & Sons Surbiton’s High Class Traditional Family Butchers Meat of the Highest Quality from the Finest Sources
Serving Surbiton for over 50 Years C.D Jennings & Sons C.D Jennings & Sons Butchers C.D Jennings & Sons Easter 2015 Specials Valentine’s Day Specials Easter & Spring 2015
Call us on 020 8399 4870 to reserve your Easter feast! Call us on 020 8399 4870 Call us on 020 8399 4870 to reserve your Easter feast! ScotchSteaks Highland Lamb Legs,Fillet, Shoulders, Saddles, T-bone, Sirloin, Rib Scotch Eye,Racks Rump, Scotch Highland Lamb, Beef, Centre Cut, Onglet, Flat Iron, Free Range Pork, Scotch Turkeys, BeefChickens, Ducks Flank Skirt, Hanger and of course ourTopside, wide selection of BBQ items! Sirloin, Foreribs, Fillets All of our beef is dry aged for 21 days at our shop Range Turkeys, Ducks andFree comes fromChickens, the finest farms in Scotland
Visit our shop at 146 Ewell Road, Surbiton, KT6 6HE (Opposite Sainsbury’s Local) or call us to place an order on 020 8399 4870
To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096
For more information view our website www.cdjenningsandsons.com
email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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Greek Vegetable Bake Serves 4
Ready in 1 hour 10 minutes
This hearty veggie dish makes a great family midweek meal. Serve with a crisp green salad or some crunchy home-made coleslaw.
Ingredients: • 2 large potatoes, peeled and thickly sliced • 1 large aubergine, trimmed and sliced • 3 tbsp olive oil 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed • 150ml vegetable stock • 1 tsp dried oregano • 2 tsp tomato puree • 300g thick Greek yogurt • 2 medium eggs, beaten • 1 tbsp cornflour • � tsp grated nutmeg • 1 large tomato, sliced • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Tip:
Sprinkle with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or thin slices of mozzarella cheese before baking to make this dish even tastier!
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Bring a large pan of lightly salted water to the boil. Add the sliced potatoes and simmer for about 5 minutes until almost tender. Drain well and refresh under cold running water. Set aside. Place the aubergine slices in a shallow bowl and drizzle over 2 tbsp of the olive oil. Heat a heavy-based frying pan over a medium heat. Cook the aubergine slices for 1-2 minutes on each side until tender and just golden. Remove and set aside. Add the rest of the oil to the pan and gently fry the garlic for 1 minute. Whisk in the vegetable stock, oregano and tomato puree and bring to the boil. Remove from the heat. Preheat the oven to 190C, 170C fan, Gas Mark 5. Layer the potato and aubergine slices in a large ovenproof dish (at least 8cm deep). Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper between each layer. Pour the stock mixture over the vegetables. Place the yogurt, eggs and cornflour in a bowl and beat together until smooth. Add the nutmeg and season lightly. Spoon the mixture over the layered vegetables and top with the tomato slices. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
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SPOTLIGHT ON LEWIS & DICK
I believe that Lewis & Dick is a unique firm of solicitors says James Winfield
W
hat’s different about Lewis & Dick?’ we asked. The reply was enthusiastic.
‘We are a long-established law firm. Many
are. We’re different because we aim to marry the traditional do-it-all approach of the ‘oldfashioned’ Solicitor with modern communication methods and case management technology. This results in more rapid responses, a high quality of service and more economical solutions which are naturally tailored to the needs of each Client.’ ‘In place of the Family Solicitor, who was historically a jack of all trades, our modern-style operation is founded on the skills and experience of specialist teams. Whatever legal help you need, our teams are here to give individuals and businesses high quality legal advice and costeffective solutions, whatever legal problems they may have.’ ‘For instance, ‘ said James. ‘I head up one team, working on Wills, Power of Attorney, Estate Management and related matters. This includes Probate and Intestacy and also Contentious Probates.’ ‘Another specialist team works under my colleague Carol Stevens-Stratten, dealing with a host of matrimonial matters such as Divorce, Separation or Help with Contact. In this area there are Children’s issues such as residence and contact, where Carol’s advice and experience can be especially valuable.’ ‘And if you’re moving house and selling, buying or letting property, Jonathan Owens and his team are well-equipped on all aspects of Conveyancing and related procedures. As another side to their expertise they will also advise on how to get help
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with your business if you need it.’ ‘Property Conveyancing has many complex sides to it. In addition to Sales and Purchases and Lettings we deal almost daily with Equity Releases, Auctions, Buy-to-Let issues and Lease Extensions.’ ‘We also do Litigation, where we are frequently involved with County Courts and the High Court. We also deal with Claims and Debt Recovery, Property and Contract and with Disputes when they arise.’ ‘Not forgetting our Charity Law work.’ ‘But these are only the main headings of the services we offer our Clients. The day-to-day reality is much more complex and all our work has to be tailored to the needs of each Client’s situation.’ ‘Meanwhile we play a prominent part in the affairs of Businesses, such as buying and selling or letting commercial property. We also advise on organisation structures, Company Law matters and Partnership Agreements.’ ‘It’s a fascinating business to work in.’ said James finally. ‘I think it’s the variety that appeals. Every day is different; sometimes every few minutes are different! But I wouldn’t change it or my involvement in it. Believe me, it really is different!’ James Winfield Lewis & Dick 443 Kingston Road Ewell Surrey KT19 0DG 020 8393 0055 www.lewis-dick. com
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LEWIS DICK
solicitors
Need a DIVORCE, SEPARATION OR HELP WITH CONTACT speak to Carol Stevens-Stratten Need to MOVE HOUSE OR GET HELP WITH YOUR BUSINESS speak to Jonathan Owens Need to MAKE A WILL OR POWER OF ATTORNEY OR ADMINISTER AN ESTATE speak to James Winfield
WE ARE YOUR LOCAL LAW FIRM, AND PROVIDE A HIGH QUALITY SERVICE For more information or a no obligation quote
Call: 020 8393 0055
Email: ewell@lewis-dick.com or visit our Website: www.lewis-dick.com Lewis & Dick, 443 Kingston Road, Ewell, Surrey, KT19 0DG
– treat them as raw material and let them steep awhile. Play with the words on the page. No one else will see them until you want them to, unless you leave your notebook behind in a pub, like I did. ‘Angry barmaid could be a serial killer’ was not well received.
Ideas Where do writing ideas come from? Anywhere, anything and anyone. The best ideas, like fine wines, mature with age. They’re cheaper of course, and more plentiful. Ideas can creep up on you unawares, so it’s as well to be prepared. Here are four tools to help you: a pen and paper, your eyes and your ears. Your notes may be snippets of overheard conversations, stray thoughts, observations, news headlines or song lyrics. Let public transport become your hunting ground and let the world inspire you! Still stuck? Try picking three random words from a dictionary, or any other book, and see where it takes you. Don’t judge your notes
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By way of example, I saw a car pull up and a couple emerge to continue their screaming match outside. Frankly, my sympathy was with the car. I wrote it like this: Emergency Services No one heard their screams as the car skidded. A shimmering Angel appeared and bestowed its grace, translucent light soothing the screeching tyres. “Glory to God,” the driver cried, as they emerged. “You’ve saved our lives!” “Not yours,” the Angel replied, as she got into the driving seat and drove away. How would you write it? By Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.co.uk
email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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Practically Magic April is the time for being fooled and there’s nothing like a bit of magic to turn you into an unwitting mark. With their wizardry and secret societies, magicians have been holding us spellbound for years. The illusions are permeating the pages and here are some novels where a touch of trickery has ensured a page-turner. Practical Magic - Alice Hoffman When the whole town’s been against you for two hundred years, you might want to think about moving. The generations of Owens women though, who get the blame for everything that goes wrong in the town, seem to revel in the powers of witchcraft the locals think they wield. All that is, except for sisters Gillian and Sally, who want nothing more than to break the cycle and escape, one way or another. But having magic running through your veins is a hard thing to pull against, and time and time again they are drawn back to each other.
One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcí¬a Márquez This acclaimed novel tells the story of José Arcadio Bunedia, founding father of Macondo - a city of mirrors that first appears to him in his dreams. José, along with his wife and cousin leave Riohacha in Colombia and set off in search of a better life and the utopia that is Macondo, and the story chronicles the rise and subsequent fall of this mythical land. The novel covers every conceivable facet of human life, love and death with the search for peace and truth being the ultimate goal. It’s an incredible novel from a Nobel Prize-winning writer.
The Night Circus - Erin Morgenstern Le Cirque des Rêves (The Circus of Dreams) only comes alive between dusk and dawn, disappearing from view as the sunlight emerges. Set in Victorian London this is a real treat of a novel, touched by fairytale and sure to hold you spellbound. You never quite know when or where the circus is going to appear, as if from nowhere, with its ice gardens and cloud maze and whirling, twirling acrobats of the night. A few know the secret of the circus and have formed their own magic circle, so to speak. It’s a wonderful, slightly surreal and other-worldly experience wrapped up in a book.
The Tempest - William Shakespeare On a remote island, the former Duke of Milan, Prospero uses his powers of sorcery to wreak havoc and right wrongs. Shakespeare’s beloved tale begins with a violent and thrashing storm at sea, conjured up by Prospero in order to shipwreck his usurping brother, Antonio along with the conniving King Alonso on his desert island. Prospero and his teenage daughter, Miranda have spent the last twelve years on the island, with only a cheeky spirit Ariel and a savage creature called Caliban for company. There’s love at first sight, a spirit, a monster and finally, redemption. Fantastic.
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Like Water for Chocolate Laura Esquivel They say that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach and that’s certainly the case when you’ve got a secret ingredient of magic to throw into the mix. The story is set in Mexico at the turn of the century and focuses on the De La Garza family. Tita, as the youngest member of the all-female household, must abide by Mexican tradition and look after their mother until she dies. She is forbidden to marry but falls in love with Pedro and her seduction takes the form of her magical dishes. But, the path of true love never did run smooth and he marries her sister instead. Of course, the story doesn’t quite end there. The Magicians - Lev Grossman Imagine a slightly more angstridden Harry Potter and you have Quentin Coldwater. He’s a high school senior and a genius by all accounts, but he is as miserable as sin. That is, until he gets accepted at a college of magic to begin his education in conjuring and sorcery. Suddenly, he thinks he’s found his niche. But with college comes all manner of other complications associated with student life. Quentin longs for the world of the fantasy novels he used to read as a kid, about a magical land called ‘Fillory’. If only it were real he might truly find happiness.
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The Eve Appeal wants to raise awareness of the Five Gynaecological Cancers. The Eve Appeal wants both women and men to be more aware of gynaecological cancers in clubs and associations so invite Hilaire. The 5 Gynaecological Cancers The term gynaecological (or gynae) cancer refers to the 5 cancers found in the female reproductive system, - the “down there” bit of our anatomy. They are: Ovarian, Cervical, Womb, Vulval and Vagina Every day in the UK 50 women will be diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer, 20 of these will die. Awareness of the 5 cancers is low. Many women and men - don’t know there are 5 gynae cancers. I could only do three before joining the Eve Appeal.
Over 8,400 women are diagnosed every year in the UK. The good news is that it is almost always curable if caught at an early stage. Unfortunately, womb cancer is on the increase each year due to changes in lifestyle, There are strong links between womb cancer and being overweight. However, not all overweight women will develop this cancer and some women with a healthy lifestyle will develop womb cancer. Signs and symptoms: • Vaginal bleeding after the menopause • Vaginal bleeding between periods If you are worried or have any of the signs and symptoms mentioned for any of the cancers then visit your GP. Vulval and Vagina cancer
Most women are diagnosed when one of these 5 cancers has already spread. For the man or woman in the street knowing the early symptoms of these cancers is, literally, vital.
After the ovarian, cervix and womb cancers, there are 2 more - vulval and vagina - and - thank goodness - they are quite rare.
Ovarian Cancer
Many women think that once they have had the menopause they won’t have issues ‘down there’. But some are unlucky, so keep an eye out, either for yourself or your mum or her mum.
This is the big one – it is the 5th most common cause in the UK of all cancer deaths in women – with 6,500 cases being diagnosed a year. Signs and symptoms include: • persistent pelvic and abdominal pain, increased abdominal size and/or persistent bloating • difficulty eating and feeling full quickly • needing to urinate more often than normal If diagnosed in the earliest stage of ovarian cancer women have a very good chance of surviving, with 5 year survival rates of above 70%. When diagnosed at the latest stage, the five year survival rate is below 10%. This is why it is so important to speak to your doctor if you have any of the signs or symptoms mentioned. Cervical Cancer (the membrane at the top of the vagina, the entrance to the womb). Can affect women of all ages, most common with premenopausal women, 30-45 years. It is very rare in women under 25 years of age. Cervical cancer is a largely preventable and in the UK we have a successful cervical screening programme which is estimated to save over 4,000 lives each year. In the future, most cervical cancers will be prevented by HPV (human papilloma virus) vaccination, but for the next few decades cervical screening will still be vitally important. Signs and symptoms: • Unusual bleeding, especially after sex or after the menopause • Persistent, unpleasant, blood stained vaginal discharge Tell your doctor if concerned, even if you have had a normal result for screened cervical cancer test or you have been vaccinated with HPV. Womb or Uterus cancer is the 4th most common cancer in women in the UK after breast, lungs and bowel.
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Post menopausal women are mainly at risk.
Vulval cancer sees 1,000 cases a year in the UK, with 80% of these experienced by women over 60. Signs and symptoms: • a persistent itch • pain or soreness in the vulval region Vaginal cancer is even rarer, just 250 cases a year in the UK, mostly to women over 60. It is extremely rare in women under 40. It is hard to diagnose. As many as 20% of women diagnosed with vaginal cancer show no symptoms at all. So vigilance and monitoring makes sense. Symptoms and signs: • • • • • •
bleeding when you are not having a period or bleeding after the menopause unpleasant, vaginal discharge pain during sex a lump or growth in the vagina vaginal itch that won’t go away
Many of these cancer symptoms are also linked with other conditions, like infections. Rule of thumb – persistent bloating should set alarm bells ringing for ovarian cancer, as should persistent bleeding between periods and after the menopause as a possible sign of the other gynaecological cancers. When in doubt go to your GP. Do not be fobbed off by a GP, who may say, “It’s only the menopause,” or “Come back in three months, if symptoms persist.” Eve Appeal Offices: 15B Bergham Mews, Blythe Road, London, W14 0HN Tel: 020 7605 0100 or email: office@eveappeal.org.uk web: www.eveappeal.org.uk Hilaire Stella Gomer lives locally and is a public speaking ambassador and volunteer on behalf of the Eve Appeal. If you want to contact her or ask her to speak at your community group, contact her on: hgomer@gmail.com
email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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Short Story The Stakeout Maurice poured another cup of strong coffee and stretched out his stiff legs. This was his first stakeout and while there had been no activity in the cul-de-sac for an hour he suspected things could change quickly. All the residents were now present and correct. The Caffertys, at number 2, had drawn their lounge curtains. The family at number 4 had finally managed to get their kids in bed. The Mordells at number 6 were in their kitchen washing up after dinner. Maurice took the last bite of the sandwich Q had delivered as he settled down in shadows of the porch here at number 8. By his side was a camera and a walkie-talkie. House number 10 was the main focus of his investigation. Jeff had moved in four weeks ago. Tall, receding, he kept himself to himself. His lawn was mowed and his flowerbeds weeded, but it was four weeks ago when the trouble began and Maurice didn’t believe in coincidences. Every driveway had a dustbin standing like a sentinel for the morning refuse collection. Every driveway, that is, except number 10. Kevin Mordell appeared at his front door pulling on his coat. The Mordells’ dog, Boris, part Chihuahua, part hot dog sausage, scurried outside. Maurice made a note in his book. Kevin Mordell, lazy dog walker, secret smoker, allowed the dog to run over everyone’s
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by Jackie Brewster lawn while he enjoyed his one cigarette of the evening. The dog scampered up to Maurice and sniffed around at the empty sandwich wrapper. “Shoo Boris!” Maurice whispered urgently. The last thing he needed was to have his cover blown. Boris, a nervous dog, was quick to scurry away. Kevin whistled and disappeared with Boris back into the house. Maurice sighed with relief, checked the time, and noted it in his book.
Mrs Cafferty rubbed her eyes.
The fluorescent light in the garage at number 10 flickered on. Something was happening. Maurice studied Jeff as he pulled up his garage door and with a sound like thunder wheeled his dustbin to the end of his drive. This is it thought Maurice. He reached for his camera. In his hurry the lens cap dropped to the tarmac with a loud click. Jeff paused and peered into the darkness. Maurice held his breath.
He picked up his walkie-talkie. “Q do you copy..?” There was nothing but crackle on the other end.
Out of the corner of his eye a shadowy figure hurried onto the pavement, lifted the lid of the Mordells’ dustbin and tried to cram a huge black bin liner inside. ‘Got you!’ Maurice thought. He pointed the camera and fired off the flash. Mrs Cafferty was caught in the blinding light. “Put your rubbish in your own bin”, Maurice barked.
“Mine’s full”, she called guiltily, “what’s the harm?” “They won’t take it if the lid won’t close”, Maurice called back. Mrs Cafferty sighed, pulled out the bag and dragged it back up her drive. Maurice shook his head, it’s always the ones you least expect.
The front door behind him opened. “What now Maurice?” His wife, Queenie, stood there in her dressing gown. “I said not to bother me when I’m watching my programme”. “I’ve caught the culprit, red handed”. “I hope you’re proud”, Queenie grumbled, “now get inside, you’re letting all the cold air in”. She spotted Jeff who was still stood by his dustbin. “Welcome to the street!” she called. He nodded and backed slowly up his drive.
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Around Britain Lakes & Waterways 1. Coton in the Elms, Derbyshire - The Derbyshire village of Coton in the Elms is the furthest point from the sea it is possible to be in the British Isles: as measured by the Ordnance Survey, the village stands 113km (70 miles) from its nearest coastline. 2. Eas a’Chual Aluinn, Highland - Dropping 201m (658ft), Eas a’Chual Aluinn is the highest waterfall in the British Isles. A so-called ‘horsetail’ waterfall (that is, one that maintains almost constant contact with the rock beneath it), the water of Eas a’Chual Aluinn descends more than three times the height of Niagara Falls. 3. Loch Ness - Loch Ness is the second largest loch in Scotland, the fourth largest lake in the whole of the UK, and with an average depth of 132m (433ft) is deeper than any other lake in Britain. In fact, Loch Ness is so vast it contains more water than all of the lakes in England and Wales combined. 4. Raasay, Highland - Raasay in the Inner Hebrides is Britain’s twenty-eighth largest island, and is surrounded by some of the deepest inshore waters in the whole of the British Isles. Inner Sound – the stretch of water that separates Raasay from the Scottish mainland – plummets to a depth of 323m (1,060ft). 5. Seil, Argyll & Bute - The island of Seil in Scotland’s Firth of Lorn stands just 6m (20ft) from the Scottish mainland, forming the narrowest sea strait in the whole of the British Isles. © Taken from The British Isles: A Trivia Gazetteer by Paul Anthony Jones
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Beer of the Month Surely April is about more than Easter and chocolate. Well, there’s St George’s Day, for one thing, which also happens to be Shakespeare’s birthday; but most important of all, spring is definitely here. Even if it’s stair-rodding it down with freezing cold rain it’s officially no more than an April shower. So let’s try a couple of beers that will bring our taste buds back to life after all the strong dark beers they’ve wallowed in over the winter. The first is Marston’s New World Pale Ale at 4.1% alcohol, a very pale beer hopped with an unnamed blend of Australian hops. The nose absolutely screams pineapple with an overtone of elderflower suggesting (to me, but I’m not that expert!) that the varieties include Citra and Galaxy. The palate is creamy, with yet more pineapple balanced by a quenching bitterness. The finish is more traditional, with a lingering hop bitterness perfect for a hot day (provided we get one, that is). Single Hopped Kentish Ale from Shepherd Neame (4.5% alcohol) is actually brewed exclusively for Tesco and is an altogether different proposition. Here the hops are East Kent Goldings, a strain first grown in Shepherd Neame’s own hinterland more than two centuries ago. The floral aromas and flavours – of lavender, according to the bottle-label – are much more subdued. The nose is fresh, not over-assertive, and if anything grassy. The palate is pleasingly light, and here the lavender does come through, but subtly. The finish is earthy, dry, bitter, and very, very English. Drink one on St George’s Day! By Ted Bruning
ALAN SURSHAM (MOTOR VEHICLE TECHNICIAN)
Registered Office: 1, Orchard Close, West Ewell, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 9NS
Your local MOT TESTER AND SERVICE REPAIRER
ALL CARS COLLECTED AND DELIVERED (LOCAL AREAS)
Interim Service - £85 Full Service - £145 (Parts and Labour included) CARS UP TO 2000 CC Quotes for cars over 2000 cc - please phone
Diagnostics - Brakes - Clutches - Bodywork - Welding etc. Labour Rate £37.50 per hour Telephone: 48
Office - 020 8397 8654 Garage - 07784 716 567 (For instant attention)
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Cake and Bake Fruit Tiramisu This is a simpler version of the classic Italian dessert with layers of rich mascarpone cream, coffee soaked sponge fingers, chocolate and fresh fruit. For individual puds, cut the sponge fingers in half and use 6 small ramekin dishes or glass tumblers.
Ingredients: • 120ml cold strong black coffee • 3tbsp coffee liqueur such as Tia Maria • 14 sponge fingers • 500g mascarpone cheese • 75g caster sugar • 75ml Marsala • 300ml double cream • 75g dark chocolate, grated
1. Mix together the black coffee and coffee liqueur in a shallow dish. Dip half the sponge fingers in the coffee mixture and arrange in the base of a glass serving bowl. 2. Place the mascarpone cheese and sugar in a large bowl and, using a wooden spoon, beat together until smooth and creamy. Gradually beat in the Marsala and the double cream. 3. Spread about one third of the mascarpone mixture over the sponge fingers in the serving bowl. Scatter over half the grated chocolate and most of the strawberries and raspberries. Reserve the rest of the fruit in the fridge for decoration. 4. Dip the remaining sponge fingers in the rest of the coffee mixture and arrange on top of the fruit, pressing down gently. Spoon over the remaining cream mixture and use a spatula to gently level the surface. Top with the remaining grated chocolate.
• 175g fresh raspberries
5. Cover the dish with cling film and chill for at least 3-4 hours (or overnight). To serve, remove the tiramisu from the fridge and leave to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Uncover and decorate with the reserved fruit.
Serves 6
TIP
• 175g strawberries, hulled and halved
Ready in 30 mins, plus chilling
You can vary the fruit depending on what is available at the time – try pitted fresh or canned cherries, orange segments or blueberries.
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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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And Another Thing... by Tom Hughes
Where to take my beloved for a much needed break? Tenerife for some early sun? Or how about springtime in Paris? Or maybe somewhere nearer home....?
up on the coast road and after leaping acrobatically to catch my airborne umbrella, shouted over to Sarah.
“Southport? In March? But Tom, I thought we were going to Paris?”
“What!? The wind, I can’t-”
“Did you know Southport’s Lord Street is the inspiration for the boulevards of most romantic city in the world?” “Oh, for a horrible minute I thought you meant we were going to -” “Southport, that’s right. We can take Olly on the beach. Go for a stroll along Southport Pier?” “You know how to spoil a girl, don’t you?” “Come on, grab your coat, better take an extra layer, best take an umbrella too.” “Anything else?”
“Have you got any change for the machine?” She shook her head, no change. No matter we could pay via mobile phone. Thirty minutes later I was in the newsagents changing a five pound note. “You can pay by mobile mate.” “Unfortunately I failed my computer programming A-level, so can I have five pound coins please?” At last, we were ready to explore. “So you see, the design of this street, with its wide thoroughfare, is just like the boulevards of Paris. It is said that Napoleon III lodged just off Lord Street, in 1834 I believe, and that gave him the idea-”
“A flask of Bovril? Oh and a woolly hat.”
“Tom, as fascinating as this is, can we just get out of the rain?”
In no time at all the Mondeo Ghia was within striking distance of the classiest seaside town north of Liverpool (and south of Blackpool). I parked
“I’ll tell you what Tom, you go and get your fortune told, I’m going into Russell & Bromleys.”
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“Here let’s go down this side alley and get our fortune told.”
Refusing to be dissuaded, I popped my head through the beads hanging across the door and sat down in Madame Sylvia’s bijou front parlour, with Olly sat quietly on my knee. She took my hand in hers which was of course the signal for me to start giggling. “I would say that you are quite a happy-go-lucky person. Always smiling.” “Well fancy you knowing that?” I beamed. “Now, you haven’t got a younger brother have you?” “No.” “Older sister?” “No. I have a younger sister and an older brother.” “Yes I thought so.” Well done Madame Sylvia, right on the money again! Leaving Madame Sylvia’s armed with the knowledge that my fortune was on its way, I met Sarah coming out of the shoe shop. Eventually, we battled our way across the coast road and found our way to Southport Pier. “Tom look at it, it’s sheeting down.”
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“It’s OK darling worry not, we can take the train.” And there, coming into the tiny station on the shortest bit of track known to man, was a real live proper train. “Is this the right train for the end of Southport Pier?” The exhausted driver looked at me like he hadn’t heard that joke for hours. “Ninety pence please.” At the other end of this pile of Victorian Iron we discovered a seedy amusement arcade and tatty cafe which had been refurbished completely and replaced with, er, a tatty cafe and seedy amusement arcade. We decided to sit out the storm with a restorative cuppa. Unfortunately, a stroppy little man in a hi-viz jacket and moustache barred our way.
“Sorry sir, no dogs in the cafe.” We all looked down at Olly, now soaked and shivering with the cold. “It’s OK, he’s a guide dog.” The little Jobsworth’s eyes narrowed. “Well where’s his harness and tunic?” “It’s his day off.” “His day off?” “Yes. Do you wear that tunic on your day off?” “Er, no.” “Well neither does he, now excuse us.”
“I’m not sure but I think I can see it now, you know that one there, at other end of this pier?” We returned to our Mondeo Ghia only to find a nice shiny yellow parking ticket stuck onto the windscreen. “I thought you bought one?” “I thought you paid by mobile?” And the moral of this story? When a fortune teller says it’s your lucky day to go and buy a ticket, always follow her advice.
Follow Tom’s escapades at groomsdaybook.com Twitter @groomsdaybook
After our greasy Eccles cake and stewed tea we decided to head home. I made a dash for the train but it had already gone. “Blast! What time is the next one?”
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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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Kingston Police: Making Crime Reduction our Business
K
ingston is one of the safest boroughs in the Met. We want to keep it that way and are proactively working hard to do so. Since last summer we have been rolling out Business Watch; thus far 347 businesses are on board. If you have not already signed up; please do join us! We want to hear from you! Business Watch is not just for retailers we are interested in hearing from all kinds of businesses from all sectors including shops, offices and home businesses. Benefits at a glance: * Free to join * Free access to the DISC system – a secure information sharing intranet for crime reduction that gives viewing access to current offenders and allows you to report crime and
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incidents electronically. * Free crime trend alerts * Free crime prevention advice both electronically and in person. For example, our officers would be happy to give free personal safety advice to your staff. * Free review of your property by one of our officers to advise whether further target hardening crime prevention measures could assist * Know your local police team and how you can contact them Interested? Please email Alison.J.McWhinnie2@Met.Police.uk with your name and business address. Alison will put you in touch with your local team. We look forward to hearing from you!
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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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MOVIEREVIEW: REVIEW: MOVIE
MOVIE REVIEW: Exodus Gods andKings Kings Exodus Gods and Chris Mills CHAPPiE Chris Mills
Chris Mills name Chris Mills and review MyMy name is is Chris Mills and mymy jobjob is is to to review thethe latest and greatest movies screen. latest and greatest movies to tohithit thethebigbig screen. I I have a passion film and even bigger passion have a passion forfor film and anan even bigger passion forfor cinema experience. I am your local Film Critic. thethe cinema experience. I am your local Film Critic. eill Blomkamp is a visionary. His previous Exodus Gods and Kings second movie adaptation but just occasionally the standard slips making it Exodus Gods and Kings is thethe second movie adaptation adventures have included the riveting a Bible story the cinema has been graced with this difficult to follow the scenes purpose and drive. of of a Bible story the cinema has been graced with this to deliver afundamental powerful performance Moses. However Elysium (2013) and the spectacular District isa apowerful feature of film editing. In deliver performance as as Moses. However year. Prior to Exodus’ release, Noah starring RusselltoSound year. Prior to Exodus’ release, Noah starring Russell I feel Joel Edgerton steals the show, for every scene 9Crowe (2009). Blomkamp’s movies tend to be bold, an action sequence it’s less important, however for I feel Joel Edgerton steals the show, for every scene hehe washed onto the big screen back in April 2014. Crowe washed big screen back in April 2014. heavily appears in delivers and embodies powerful andonto cold.the They delve deep into human scripted scenesconfidence itconfidence becomesand crucial. appears in hehe delivers embodies thethe Although Noah stormed the box office it failed to make Although Noah boxheoffice it failed to make behaviour andstormed expressthe how perceives humanity role of the monstrous Pharaoh Ramses perfectly. Joel a connection with the audience. Where money wasrole of the monstrous Pharaoh Ramses perfectly. Joel a might connection the audience. Where money was react with when put under pressure. His filming Edgerton has also Dark Thirty and Chappie utilises aappeared variety ofZero filming styles Edgerton has also appeared in in Zero Dark Thirty and concerned Noah was a success however audiences style is very rugged. is a master at delivering concerned Noah was aHe success however audiences throughout. The of film’s opening consists of various the 2011 remake of The Thing. Exodus also has surthe 2011 remake The Thing. Exodus also has surworldwide were disappointed. a both result Exodus news reports showing bloodied streets, despair, profound realism to battle scenes close worldwide were leftleft disappointed. AsAs ainresult Exodus prise guest appearances from Sigourney Weaver and guest appearances from Sigourney Weaver and needed something much greater. Bigger, darkerprise quarters and out in the open. For both District 9 and violence and vandalism on the Johannesburg needed to to bebe something much greater. Bigger, darker Ben Kingsley. Ben Kingsley. and more powerful. Ridley Scott’s name carries a cerElysium Blomkamp cast Sharlto Copley to great and more powerful. Ridley Scott’s name carries a cer- streets. It shows the authorities being overwhelmed effect. Withtohis latest adventure, Copley portrays tain weight toit. it. Cinema greatssuch suchas asGladiator, Gladiator, with anti-social behaviour. The use of news reports Although Exodus is based a well-known Bible story, tain weight Cinema greats Although Exodus is based onon a well-known Bible story, Chappie to a similarly highBlack standard. beginning of Chappie works incredibly well the Alien, Blade Runner and Hawk Down have a the story where Moses frees 600,000 people from Alien, Blade Runner and Black Hawk Down have allalla atstory where Moses frees 600,000 people from the it instantly draws audiences in doesn’t with gripping bared name stamp with Exodus Scott’s latest ven- as oppressive slavery, movie delve into bared hishis name stamp with Exodus Scott’s latest venlifelife of of slavery, thethe movie doesn’t delve into Chappie is Neill Blomkamp’s latest anticipated movie. oppressive footage. Further into the movie Blomkamp really ture. His next will surely be the highly the world of the slaves in nearly enough detail. It up is up ture. His next will surely be the highly anticipated the world of the slaves in nearly enough detail. It is Thankfully Elysium seems but a distant memory. on the gas pedal as the the hardship story unfolds thecrusequel Prometheus which is set release in 2016. stamps to audience imagine and sequel to to Prometheus which is set forfor release 2016. thethe audience to to imagine the hardship thethe cruBlomkamp has returned with bucket loads ofin grit and toaction cranks up. Battle scenes are fluid,and organised elty that the Egyptian slaves endure. Sadly Ridley elty that the Egyptian slaves endure. Sadly Ridley a moving story. Although Elysium was respectable relentless. Blomkamp places the audience not those who saw Noah and were blown away ForFor those who saw Noah and were blown away byby itsits and seems tohave have left thisaspect aspect of the story forthethe in its own way, it was felt that the director struggled seems to left this of the story for on the edge of the action, but right in the centre. sense of scale, Exodus pushes the envelope even fursense ofhis scale, Exodus pushes the envelope even furaudience fathom themselves. audience to get teeth into the movie and thus was unable Slow motion gunfire, combined with gorilla style to to fathom outout themselves. AsAs anan audience ther. Everything is bigger, grander and more impres-audience ther. Everything is bigger, grander and more impresthere isanan understanding ofwhy why600,000 600,000 slaves to deliver a rough and ready product such as 2009’s fast action filming makes for a realistic experience. there is understanding of slaves sive. From the streets of Egyptian cities, which seem to sive. From the streets of Egyptian cities, which seem to should morally freed little indication District 9. Regardless Blomkamp is back on form should The action is be notbefreed for the faint hearted as bodies morally butbut little indication of ofthethe be never ending and filled to the brim with great sculpbewith never ending and filled to the brim with great sculpChappie. Chappie shares many qualities with get dismembered by freed giant robots horrors they being freed from.and blown up by they areare being from. tures, works of laced with gold and awe inspiringhorrors tures, works artart laced with and awe inspiring District 9 inofthat emotion is gold resonated effortlessly futuristic weaponry. architecture. Quarry, amoment pit sorrow, violence Exodus Gods and Kings a fantastic film which through theToTo audience. One Chappie is Exodus architecture. thethe Quarry, a pit of of sorrow, violence Gods and Kings is is a fantastic film which dis-disand slavery where the slaves live, work and die. The Chappie plays both astonishing scale and beautiful The heart-warming and no less than beautiful. The next and slavery where the slaves live, work and die. The is excellent.scale The combination ofacting. shere plays both astonishing and beautiful acting. The vastness of both Quarry, Egyptian City and minute audience is thrown into spectacular film further wrapped in a mesmerising script with beauty and ruggedness exceptionally well. vastness ofthe both thethe Quarry, thethe Egyptian City and thethefilm is is further wrapped in works a mesmerising script with environments between immense. Ridley Scott Although battle sequences and organised crime. Chappie was qualities depth and gravity. The movie carries with the editing couldThe have beencarries better, the environments in in between areare immense. Ridley Scott qualities of of depth and gravity. movie with it it filmed incaptured the heartthe of Johannesburg, South Africa. truly captured theharshness harshnessof of both this land- finished picture isexpect a spectacle. slightly outlandish all the traits we from aIt’s director of Ridley Scott’s hashas truly both this landall the traits we expect from a director of Ridley Scott’s Johannesburg currently has the highest crime but well worth experiencing.. scape and lives people who inhabit calibre. scape thethe lives of of thethe people who inhabit it. it. rate and of any city on the globe making it a less than calibre. Notonly only doesExodus Exodus visually dazzling, perfect location to raiseappear aappear robotvisually with thedazzling, mental age 7/10 8/10 Not does thethe 7/10 of aofbaby. Having that it does make forhas ahas truly story of movie is also untarnished. Ridley manstory thethe movie is said also untarnished. Ridley manChrisGods Millsand Editor’s note: went print Exodus mesmerising location ground for a movie. In factspecial it’s perfect aged incorporate breaking effectsEditor’s note: AsAs wewe went to to print Exodus Gods and aged to to incorporate ground breaking special effects for Chappie. Kings was showing at Kingston Odeon Cinema. Please with delicate and intricate dialogue. Some films, such Kings was showing at Kingston Odeon Cinema. Please with delicate and intricate dialogue. Some films, such As we went to print, CHAPPiE was showing at check press details time intended visit. Rated as disaster movie 2012 seem to devote countlesscheck press forfor details at at time of of intended Rated Kingston and Epsom Odeon Cinemas. Pleasevisit. check asChappie’s thethe disaster movie 2012 seem to devote countless cast includes Blomkamp’s favourite 12A. Running time 2hrs 22 mins. hours to rendering CGI, forgetting the story and script 12A. Running time 2hrs 22 mins. details of intended visit. hours to rendering CGI, forgetting story and script weapon, Sharlto Copley as wellthis asthe other well-known aspects film. However is not case with aspects of of thethe film. However this is not thethe case with Rated 15 Running Time 2hrs faces such as, Sigourney Weaver, Hugh Jackman Exodus. The balance between action and dialogue Exodus. ThePatel. balance action and dialogue and Dev The between combination of award winningis is sublime, which ensures the story remains intact for the sublime, the story remains acting which talent, ensures an intricate script, a boldintact story for andthe a duration its 150 minute running time.the viewing dedicated, director ensures duration of of itstalented 150 minute running time. experience is a potent one. Unfortunately Chappie’s Furthermore Exodus Gods and Kings boasts a stellar Furthermore Exodus Gods and Kings boasts a stellar sound editing seems a little rushed. For instance, cast. Christian Bale hung up Batman cape cast. Christian hashas hung thethe Batman cape and one scene inBale particular theupaudience is unable toand donned a far more scraggly one along with a big beard hear dialogue over music and background noise. donned a far more scraggly one along with a big beard For the majority of the movie the sound is accurate,
N
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Places to go with children over the Easter Holiday Victoria & Albert Museum, Free admission 10-5.45pm London Transport Museum, Covent Garden 10-6pm (Fri: 11-6) London Zoo, Varying prices, 10-5.30pm Natural History Museum, Free, Science Museum, Free Household Cavalry Museum, Whitehall, The Guards’ Museum, Wellington Barracks, www.theguardsmuseum.com Tate Britain Museum, Free admission British Museum, Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG. Free admission Geffrye Museum, Kingsland Road, E2 8EA. Free admission Imperial War Museum, Lambeth Road, SE1 6HZ. Free admission Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, Adults £6.50, Child 2-15 £4.95, under 2 Free Family ticket £20.50 Cartoon Museum, Little Russell Street, WC1A 2HH Mon-Sat 10.30-5.30; Sun 12-5.30 £5.50 admit WWT London Wetland Centre, Barnes, Eggs and fluffy chicks Family activities at the Historic Royal Palaces Easter Egg Hunts at Cutty Sark; Victoria & Albert Museum of Childhood; Kew Gardens. Vauxhall City Farm www.vauxhallcityfarm.org Hounslow Urban Farm Feltham, 020 8831 9658 Brockett’s Farm Leatherhead Godstone Farm, Godstone Surrey. Birdworld, Farnham Chessington World of Adventure, Leatherhead Road Thames Ditton Minature Steam Railway, Leatherhead Museum of Local History, Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, 020 8946 6131 for details. Polka Theatre, Wimbledon 020 8543 4888 for details. AMF Hollywood Bowl, Tolworth. Kew Gardens Richmond Park, Take the kids for a picnic and games in the park Alice Holt Forest, Farnham London Museum of Water & Steam, www.waterandsteam.org.uk Tel: 020 8568 4757 Chocolart, Reigate. Fun workshops. www.chocolartltd.com Adventureland, Redhill Adventure Island, Cranleigh Wild World Adventure, Peacock Wood, Stoke Park Guildford. www.wildwood-adventure.com The Royal Museum, Buckingham Palace Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace Kensington Palace. Westminster Cathedral Houses of Parliament Tours. www.parliament.uk/visiting/ Tel: 020 7219 4114 If you feel more energetic, why not go swimming?
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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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QUIZ SOLUTIONS CODEWORD SOLUTION
HIDATO SOLUTION
MINI CRYPTIC SOLUTION
Solution
TWO MINUTE TRIAL SOLUTION
Word Ladder Solution Here is one possible solution others may exist! LAMB lame came case cast cost coat GOAT
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Word Wheel Word: Mortal. Children’s page answers 11 footballs, 1 cat, 2 dogs, 3 toys & 4 bottles, cans & cartons Wordsearch phrase: Happiness is a warm puppy. Charles M Schulz
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T
Are you a Carer? Do you need support and information?
his April 2015, changes will be made to the Carers' Act that may affect you or someone you care for. Like many people, you may not realise that you are a carer. Perhaps you have an elderly relative living with you, or nearby, that you help with some daily living tasks, or you may be a child with a parent that is disabled and you help them before and after school. Or a parent looking after a disabled or handicapped child, and you need support. After many years in the NHS and as a carer herself from a very young age, Anne Blanche has recently taken on a role to raise awareness of the issues and services that Carers UK can offer. To start with, she is looking to recruit new members in the local area in and around Kingston, to Carers UK. Her role will be to provide welcome phone calls and or emails to new members and to let them know about other services and organisations locally that they may not be aware of. She will also be able to facilitate informal meetings for members in the community and at workshops, as well as giving presentations at
local events. As part of her new role, Anne will give interviews with the local media on the role of a carer. She will help to promote Carers UK resources in the local community, whilst adapting them for local use. She will be responsible for sending regular reports to Carers UK summarising issues, activities and achievements. Anne will be attending Carers UK training and learning sessions, then sharing that information and good practice with the Carers UK and Local Ambassadors. Kingston Council are consulting regarding issues under the new Carers' Act. "There are many changes in the pipeline, which hard pressed carers are going to have to understand, not least of which is the new Care Act beginning April 2015" says Anne. So if you think it might apply to you or someone you know, contact Anne on 020 8546 2572. Or email her on anne.blanche@carersuk.net.
Fit as a Fiddle! Are you over 50, live in the borough of Kingston, and want to lose weight, get fit, and improve your physical and mental wellbeing?
Free 6 week ‘Fit as a Fiddle’ courses starting April 2015
Take your pick from gentle exercise to more vigorous activity
_________________________________________________ Nordic Walking: Richmond Park, Kingston, Tues 14th April, 10.30am Aquacise: Kingfisher Leisure Centre, Kingston, Wed 15th April,1.30pm Body Balance: Surbiton Library Hall, Surbiton, Thurs 16th April,12.30pm Chair based: Graham Spicer Hall, New Malden, Fri 17th April,12.00 midday All courses include healthy lifestyle/weight loss workshops ______________________________________________________ Contact Grace Shorthouse Tel: 020 8942 8256 Email: grace.shorthouse@staywellservices.org.uk To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096
email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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COMMUNITY PAGE HOOK ALLOTMENTS AND GARDENS ASSOCIATION Did you know there is an association in Hook which exists to support gardeners and allotment holders? Are you interested in gardening? If so our association, which was founded over 50 years ago and is run by volunteers, can provide a wide range of composts, fertilisers, seeds and other gardening products at notfor-profit club prices to our members. Membership costs only £1 a year and our trading facility is situated next to the entrance to the allotment plots, just beyond the rugby club pavilion, at the rear of King Edward’s recreation ground, Hook Road, Chessington. We are open:Sundays - 10am to 12 noon - February to October 10am to 11am - November to January If you want to make further enquiries come and see us during the above times. A warm welcome and friendly gardening service awaits you.
SURBITON HISTORICAL SOCIETY Tues 7th April: Tim Harrison will tell about the mayhem that took place on many occasions in his lecture “Having a riot at Surbiton Assembly Rooms” Tues 5th May: In honour of one of our
founders Mr Philip Grevatt, Mr \stephen Cooper talks about the rugby players who fought & played in WW1. The talk is “The Final Whistle - the Great War in 15 players”
Tues 2nd June: Dr Helen Goepel’s talk is “Victorian Children in Kingston”
The meetings will start at 7.45pm, at Surbiton Library Hall, Ewell Road, Surbiton. Visitors are welcome, a contribution of £2.00 is appreciated.
Details about meetings and the Society:
The Secretary: 020 8399 4473 lenandmarilyn@virginmedia.com
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Please note that all deadlines for submitting artwork will be by the following dates: 8th April for May issue; 8th May for June issue; 8th June for July/August issue 8th August for September issue; 8th September for October issue; 8th October for November issue; 8th November for December/January issue. 8th January for February issue; 8th February for March issue 8th March for April issue If you have any queries, please call me on 020 8274 0096 or email me at: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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COMMUNITY PAGE
For all gardeners and allotment holders! Remember, you can pick up a copy of A Berrylands Companion magazine at the following:
We are a small friendly local society providing gardening supplies at very reasonable prices to our members: 9 Seeds, summer and spring bulbs, onion sets, seed potatoes. C.D.Jennings, YMCA, MBE Surbiton, 9 Summer bedding plants and other young plants according to season. Surbiton & Tolworth Libraries, Shan’s 9 Traditional and organic fertilizers and soil improvers/conditioners. Pharmacy, Tolworth Recreation Centre, 9 Lawn and rose treatments, weedkillers, pest controls. Emma’s Hair Salon, Berrylands Post Office, The Lamb Pub, Surbiton & Fitness and installs 9 Growbagspremium and bagged compost, gloves, trays, canes, netting etc. DM Contract SolutionsRacket Ltd manufactures qualitypots, timber windows Club and doors which combine traditional English style Annual with membership modern just technology: £2, senior citizens £1. Sliding Sash Box Windows – Lead and Spring Balanced Read it you wait at: • whilst Casement Windows Aspen• Vets, Berrylands Autocare, Our trading hut is conveniently sited at Moor Lane French Doors • Cornerhouse Dental Practice, Sliding-Folding Doors and more. Ace Allotments (just off Moor Lane near The Bonesgate pub) • Complementary Clinic, Cabana Indian Open every Sunday 10am to 12noon, except December. Tapas Our state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques combine aesthetics, comfort, convenience and security while preserving its classic lines. It simply exceeds all expectations for its price.
If you would like copies at your business please call me on:
020 8274 0096
www.dmcscontractsolutions.co.uk
In accordance with our "members only" policy, new members are always welcomecall to join! windows@dmcontractsolutions.co.uk us: 0203 174 0208
Fircroft Trust Leverett
Jumble & Good as New Sale Electrical Ltd
ed11.30 electrician on Qualifi 25th April, - 1.30pm
22/01/2010 00:22:03
Part P registered. at Fircroft Trust All work certifi ed. 96 Ditton Road, Surbiton, No job too small. All work KT6considered 6RH Quality at the heart of our work Entrance: Adults 50p, Child Free
• Installation & maintenance • Rewires Stalls, Bric-a-Brac, • Clothes, Security Toys lighting & Cakes • Refreshments Fire alarms available • Centralofheating wiring Donations good quality items Stuart Leverett required, and collection can be Office: 020arranged. 8390 0617 Mobile: 07710 123 628 Contact: 020 8399 1722 contact@leverettelectrical.co.uk Email: www.leverettelectrical.co.uk
Disclaimer
Whilst all reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information included in A Berrylands Companion, the publisher takes no responsibility for the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers, or for the loss arising from non-publication of any advertisement. Any errors, omissions or offers are the responsibility of the advertiser. All artwork is accepted on the condition that the advertiser has obtained permission from any copyright holder for its use by A Berrylands Companion. Whilst every care is taken when printing artwork we cannot guarantee an exact colour match due to variations in print processes. Bookings are accepted only on this basis. It is the advertiser’s responsibility to submit any amendments to adverts by the deadline dates. To advertise any event, community activity in the magazine, please call
Karen on 020 8274 0096 or Email: karen@berrylandscompanion.com karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk email:
To advertise A 8274 Berrylands Companion call 020 8274 0096 To advertise call Karen:in020 0096 email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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What’s on in April:-
March 28th: New Malden WI Spring Fair 10 - 2pm at St Mark’s Church, Church Hill Road, Surbiton 30 stalls, homemade goods,crafts, chocolates, jewellery, childrens’ activities including an Easter Bonnet Competition. The chosen charity is Kingston Bereavement Service, www.kingstonbereavementservice.org. uk 28th: Earth Hour is the world’s biggest celebration for our amazing planet, with hundreds of millions of people from across the world coming together in a symbolic and spectacular lights out display. Let’s put Surbiton on the map. Be part of it at: wwf.org.uk/earthhour 30th: Parliament is dissolved before the General Election.
April: National Pet Month; Bowel Cancer Awareness Month 1st: 2nd: 3rd: 5th: 6th:
April Fools’ Day Maundy Thursday Good Friday Bank Holiday Easter Sunday Easter Monday, Bank Holiday World Health Day New Tax Year starts 6-13th: Orchid Male Cancer Awareness Week www.orchid-cancer.org.uk 8th: Deadline for submissions to A Berrylands Companion for May issue. 11th: Boat Race between Oxford versus Cambridge 12th: Surbiton Bird Watching Society Open Day in Woodland Gardens in Bushy Park. Guided walks to identify birds at 09.30, 10.30, 11.30 & 12.30. www.encief.co.uk/sdbws 13th: Surbiton Arts Group: Still Life demonstration by Freda Anderson. At Surbiton Library Annexe, 8-10pm, Info: 020 8397 2050. Email: asag2012@aol.com 13-19th: National Gardening Week www.rhs.org.uk 17th: The Annual Hook Beer Festival 2015, 6-10pm at Scout Hall, Verona Drive, Surbiton, KT6 7SU . Tickets: www.hookbeerfest.org.uk In aid of Royal Star & Garter Home 18th: Surbiton Farmers’ Market 9-1pm, Maple Road, Surbiton The Annual Hook Beer Festival as above, 12 noon-4pm and 6pm-10pm. Mum2mum Market, Baby & Childrens’ Nearly New Sale, 2-4pm at St Mark’s Church Hall KT6 4LS janine@mum2mummarket.co.uk; www.mum2mummarket.co.uk 20th: Voter Registration Deadline for the General Election. 20-26th: Parkinson Awareness Week www.parkinsons.org.uk 21st: Queen Elizabeth’s Birthday 23rd: St George’s Day; World Book Night www.worldbooknight.org 26th: Virgin Money London Marathon, in aid of Cancer Research UK 27-3rd May: Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week www.mstrust.org.uk
Events in May: 1-31st: Get Walking Month www.ramblers.org.uk 2-10th: Grand Design Live 2-17th: Surbiton Food Festival 3rd: Seething Freshwater Sardine Festival 4th: May Day Bank Holiday 4-10th: Childrens’ Book Week 7th: The General Election 8th: The Generl Election Count continues 9-10th: The Surbiton Village Food Fete 11-15th: Walk to Work Week 11-22nd: Cancer Prevention Fortnight 16th: Surbiton Farmers’ Market & Surbiton Community Sports Day & Picnic 17th: The Surbiton Brunch at local restaurants and eateries. 19-23rd: Chelsea Flower Show www.rhs.org.uk 23-30th: Surbiton Arts Group Spring Exhibition, At Surbiton Library Annexe, 8-10pm, Info: 020 8397 2050. Email: asag2012@aol.com Closed Weds 27th. Sale of paintings etc. 25th: Spring Bank Holiday Surbiton Arts Group Exhibition appraisal by Tiffany Budd
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What’s On/Local Events
1st Tuesday: NHS Retirement Club, 10-12pm at Christ Church Hall, Christ Church Road, Surbiton, KT5 8JJ. For information call Lorna: 020 8337 4121 Last Sunday of the month: Women on Wheels, meet outside Clas Ohlson Market Place 10.00. 020 8547 5865. E-mail: ccst@rbk.kingston.gov.uk St Marks Church:Weds mornings 10.00-11.30 Stay and Play for Toddlers and Carers at St Mark’s Church Hall, St Mark’s Hill. Friday Mornings Coffee and Cake corner 10-11.30am, drop in for coffee at St Andrew’s Church, Maple Road, no booking required for any of them. Tiny Tunes: Mon 10am & 10.50am at Surbiton Library Hall. Tues 10am & 10.50am at St Nicholas Parish Church, Summer Rd, Thames Ditton. All sessions 40 mins long, features music, dance, parachutes, bubbles & pom-poms. Age 3 months -5 years, pay as you go £5, siblings £2.50 www.tinytuneslive.com Kingston Camera Club: Camera enthusiasts welcome. Meet Mon eves, at St John’s Ambulance HQ, Athelstan Rd off Villiers Avenue. 7.30pm - 10pm with coffee break. New members welcome. Contact Tim Moreland 020 8541 0126, email: tim.moreland@yahoo.com See www.kingstoncameraclub.com Kingston Philatelic Society: Meets 8-10pm on 1st Thurs & 3rd Fri, at Surbiton Library Hall, Ewell Road. Info: Brian Sole Tel: 01932 220 677 or email: brian.sole@btinternet.com Surbiton Floral Club: 1st Weds of the month at Raeburn Hall United Reform Church, Elgar avenue. 7.30 for 7.45pm start. Floral demos, talks, workshops & outings. Tel: 020 8399 8193 Mrs Bennet’s Ballroom:March 11th & 25th, April 8th & 22nd. Learn Regency dancing at St Mark’s Church Hall, Surbiton, 8pm - 10.30pm. Cost £5 per eve. Contact Libby Curzon, 020 8391 1215. Email: curzone@hotmail.com Surbiton Club for the Blind: Alternate Tues 2-4pm at Surbiton Methodist Church Ewell Road, transport available if nec. Social club with entertainment and tea. Info: 020 8399 8596 or 020 8399 3022 if places available. Oasis daytime group for over 60s at Emmanuel Church, Grand Avenue, Tolworth. Plenty of opportunity to chat, play games, do puzzles. Meetings include a 5 minute Bible-based talk. Meetings on Wednesdays 4th and 18th March, and 15th April. Tel: 020 8390 6631. Open Door: Alternate Thursdays, 2.45 - 4.30pm. A friendship group aimed at seniors. Afternoon tea, chat and short talks from local organisations. Christ Church Lounge, King Charles Road, Surbiton. 020 8390 7215 Berrylands Women’s Club: Meets every Mon evening, 8pm at Elgar Hall, United Reform Church, Raeburn Avenue, . Talks, slides and outings. Contact: Joyce Johnson Tel: 020 8390 5817 Art Classes: Every Monday 10-12noon & 2-4pm, with Berrylands Artists at Berrylands Christian Centre, 41 King Charles Road, Surbiton, KT5 8PF. Info: 020 8644 0941 Chinese Brush Painting: Held once a month at Sunray Community Centre, Knollmead, Tolworth. 10-13.00pm Contact Gwen: 020 8398 7313. Beginners & intermediates welcome. Why not send in details for Summer or other events Call Karen on 020 8274 0096 or email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk Get your school, church or charity event mentioned in A Berrylands Companion magazine Call Karen on: 020 8274 0096 or email details to: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk Next submission deadline is by 8th April for the May edition. Please Note: The following deadline will be 8th May for June issue.
To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096
email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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Index Please mention the magazine when contacting advertisers Home & Garden All Your Garden Needs Berrylands Building Company Berrylands Property Maintenance Carpets4U Chris Mould Plumber Dream Doors (Kingston Kitchens) Estates Direct Evergreen Gardening & Landscapes George Curren Electrical James Anthony KB Design Kevin Robinson Decorators Leverett Electricals M. Duffle Decorating Madenka Services Oven Cleaners Personae Interiors Profit Windows Systems R.J.Tree Services Roofing & Gutters Shaun Overy Heating & Plumbing Time for You Domestics VSF Garages Warmlite Will Lord William Stallion Electricals
15 21 27 5 19 29 25 13 45 24 21 23 23 19 9 24 27 53 13 30 7 39 31 17 15 27
Care & Health Cornerhouse Dental Practice Halo Homecare
2 57
Rest & Relaxation Anna Coe Emmanuel Church King George Field Bowls Club Rebel Waltz Cycle Solutions Surbiton Bowling Club Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club Yoga
11 51 11 28 7 64 32
Children & Education Rugby Tots
45
Funeral Services Lambert Funeral Directors
19
Veterinary Aspen Veterinary Surgery Cats Protection League
35 35
Office Stationery MBE Surbiton
63
Car Maintenance Alan Sursham Berrylands Autocare K&P Tyres Ransome Garage Hire
48 24 47 19
Food & Drink C.D.Jennings Prithi Sassy Stirrers The Ditton Pub
37 19 32 33
Solicitors Lewis-Dick Spotlight on Lewis & Dick
41 40
Articles & Editorials Community Pages Recipe Baking Kids Page Events Pages Crossword Book Review Useful Telephone Numbers Gardening by Pippa Greenwood Movie Review The Eve Appeal
58/59 38 49 44 60/61 28 42 3 14 54 43
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A Berrylands Companion From as little as ÂŁ33 a month your advert can feature here for a year! An email with your artwork will ensure it is featured.
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Contact Karen: tel: 020 8274 0096 email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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Printed by Warwick Printers, Warwickshire.
To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096
email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk
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Great facilities and location! *Text messages will cost your standard message rate. You will not be charged to receive texts from us.
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Please mention the magazine when contacting Advertisers