April 2016 issuu 107

Month: April 2016 Issue No: 107 Independent monthly community news and business directory for KT5 & KT6

Delivered free each month to homes in Berrylands, plus Surbiton or Tolworth

Exclusive: Madeline Bell Talking

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Hello Readers, I hope you all had a great Easter time.

If you are of a ‘certain age’ then this month should bring some memories to mind, when you read ‘Madeline Bell Talking...’

She is such an interesting lady, and it was surprising to remember the lyrics of the songs she mentioned. Mind you, I have a problem remembering what I did last week!!

Next month celebrates the great British institution of the Sandwich. Do you have a favourite recipe that you would like to share with our readers? If so, please send in the recipe and if possible a photo to the email address below. I might be willing to include them!!

months. So if you miss a magazine, check where you can pick up a spare copy from various places, where I leave them, each month.

April 6th sees the implementation of the new law on micro-chipping dogs. There is a possible £500 fine if your dog is not chipped. So check with your veterinary surgery as soon as possible!

Best wishes,

Karen

I thought I would remind you that Surbiton and Tolworth addresses have their delivery of A Berrylands Companion alternate

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It’s Time To Re-Think Your Drinking Habits

by Kate McLelland Why we shouldn’t ignore those warnings about drinking alcohol in old age If you’ve enjoyed a lifetime’s moderate drinking it may be hard to face the prospect of cutting down, or giving up, as you grow older. But the truth is that when people age, they become much more sensitive to the effects of alcohol.

One of the reasons is that older people carry less water in their bodies, resulting in a higher blood-alcohol concentration that can lead to confusion and accidents. The toxins in alcohol also build up over time, increasing an older person’s vulnerability to diseases such as heart and liver disease and some cancers. Other health problems may be made worse by drinking and taking prescription drugs with alcohol can also have serious consequences.

Most of us have a vision of how we would like to enjoy our retirement and later years and it probably doesn’t involve disease and disability. So why do we find it so hard to reduce our consumption?

People enjoy alcohol because it elevates their mood, breaks down inhibitions and relaxes

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them – but there are other less compelling reasons for taking a drink. Sometimes we drink to relieve boredom and loneliness, because drinking at a certain time has become habitual, or because other people expect us to. Here are some tips to help you break out of those old routines and establish new ones: We are creatures of habit. If you are used to pouring your first drink of the evening at 6.30pm, try to make it an hour later and have a non-alcoholic drink in its place. Gradually start to drink later and later until you’ve reduced the number of drinks you normally have by at least half.

We all need a bit of help. It’s important to tell friends and family that you’re making an effort to cut down on drinking.

Bring them into your plans so they can help you to avoid your usual drinking ‘triggers’.

Don’t set yourself unrealistic targets. Avoid saying that you’re giving up alcohol forever.

Start out with an objective to keep off the booze for a couple of days, then a week, then longer.

If you drink to relieve boredom or loneliness, try

to fill that space with another activity that will challenge you and bring you into contact with other people.

Avoid temptation. Try not to keep alcohol at home where it is easily accessible. Buy individual bottles of wine rather than wine boxes. It’s much easier to keep track of how much you are actually drinking when you are pouring from a bottle.

Don’t get trapped by routines.

If you always meet friends in a place where alcohol is freely available – like a pub – meet them in a different location such as a coffee bar. If it has to be a pub, alternate alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks or order a glass of water with your wine and drink both more slowly.

We all need rewards for doing well. Estimate how much you would normally spend on booze and buy yourself something nice with the money when you’ve managed to cut down.

You may find it tough at first to break old habits, but feeling healthy, energetic, slimmer and better off financially should not only help you reach your goals, but allow you to look forward to the future with greater confidence.

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5

Golden Years

Memories of 50 Years Ago by Ted Bruning

The cleverest inventions often fail at what they’re intended to do but then go on to succeed brilliantly elsewhere. I could write a list, but seeing that 6th April 1966 is perhaps the most significant date in its history, let’s focus on one outstanding example: the hovercraft.

We tend to think of the hovercraft as a product of our own age, and indeed it is; but the advantages of minimizing or even eliminating contact between hull and water have long been obvious. The first patent in hovercraft design was taken out by John Thornycroft (as in Vosper Thornycroft) way back in 1877 - but his was the age of steam, and no suitable engine existed.

Once petrol engines were available, designers became interested in contactless or reduced-contact motorboats again - but now their inspiration was aviation technology, and between 1915 and 1940 prototypes of various steppedhull and hydroplane coastal craft were built in Austro-Hungary, Finland, the USSR, the USA amongst others.

World War II put a stop to these developments, but in the 1950s a Norfolk boatbuilder, Christopher Cockerell, decided to revisit Thorneycroft’s patent.

Light but powerful engines were plentiful, and Cockerell was also able to design a way of swirling the air cushion on which his

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hovercraft would ride that made it more efficient still. At last, a craft that would rise clear out of the water!

Cockerell’s design won the support of the National Research Development Council, which licensed his 1955 patent to a number of builders including Saunders-Roe; and on 11th June 1959 the four-seater 28mph SR-N1 (Saunders Roe Nautical 1) was launched. The craft was then shipped to Calais and on 25th July made the first Channel crossing by hovercraft.

It wasn’t the first into service, though – that honour went to the rival Vickers-Armstrong 3, which started a scheduled ferry service across the Dee between Rhyl and Wallasey in July and August 1962. The second, launched in the same year, used a new Saunders-Roe hovercraft, SRN2, to cross the Solent between Ryde and Southsea – a service that still runs today, albeit with rather more modern craft!

But the Channel was the challenge, both technically and commercially. It was open sea, the weather could be rough, and hovercraft had not so far proved themselves terribly robust (the VA-3’s career was ended by a storm). But the potential pickings were rich: international travel was becoming more affordable and more popular, and Dover and Folkestone were at full stretch. So, on that April day 50 years ago, the 38-seater SR-N6 raised itself up on its rubber skirt (an improvement designed not by Cockerell but by a naval officer called LatimerNeedham), trundled down the Ramsgate beach that would be the service’s home for the next 16 years, and set off on

the 40-minute, 35-mile journey to Calais. Connecting coaches would take passengers on to Paris for £3.7s.6d or Brussels for £2.7s.6d.

Cheaper and faster they might be, but cross-Channel hovercraft never really challenged the ferry’s supremacy. Like the British airliners, the Trident and the VC-10, there wasn’t enough demand for them to justify a permanent production line: the later models even had to cannibalise each other for spare parts. The oil crisis of the early ‘70s made them less competitive; the opening of the Channel Tunnel in 1994 proved a fatal blow. The last two were retired in September 2000, just a year after the death of their inventor.

Hovercraft are, of course, still in use around the world as coastal search and rescue vessels, as military transport and assault craft, as buses using frozen Alaskan rivers in winter, although they’ve never eclipsed conventional vessels as was once hoped.

But the field in which they have proved most successful is one that Cockerell probably never expected: gardening. For in 1964 a Swedish engineer, Karl Dahlman, saw an early hovercraft in action...and invented the Flymo.

Happy 50tH BirtHdays to

Chris Evans (1st), Teddy Sheringham (2nd), Lisa Stansfield (11th), and Phil Tufnell (29th)

Cake and botox to you all!

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CONTACT: email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

7

Safely identify your pet with a micro-chip

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nyone with an animal will always have the worry that their pet might go missing. It can be traumatic for all members of the family including the lost animal.

What is a micro-chip?

Micro-chipping your pet can be as simple as an injection, similar to the one they should have annually for vaccinations. The chip is no larger than a grain of rice that is inserted just under the skin without the use of an anaesthetic. It offers the permanent proof of identity and ownership.

How can you get your pet micro-chipped?

Simple! Just contact your veterinary surgery. Make an appointment for your pet and the chip can be inserted within minutes.

Aspen Veterinary Surgery offers this service so contact them if you have not registered with a practice elsewhere.

Don’t you and your pet deserve this peace of mind?

Aspen Veterinary Surgery are offering microchipping for dogs and for other pets at a reduced rate: ÂŁ14.99 To book an appointment call:

020 8399 6437

351 Ewell Road, Tolworth, KT6 7BZ www.aspenvets.co.uk

How does it work?

Offer until end of April

Each chip has its own unique number and once implanted, your details are registered together with the chip number. You will receive a certificate of the registration. The chip can be read electronically with a hand held instrument that will not disturb your pet.

What happens if your pet is missing?

Any animals found wandering or which appear to be lost, can be scanned by a veterinary surgery, local authority Dog Wardens, animal welfare organisations such as the RSPCA and NCDL. As the registration details are held on a 24 hour database, wherever your pet is found your details will be available and you can be contacted to be reunited with your loved pet as quickly as possible.

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HOME WANTED! MAVERICK

Aspen Veterinary Surgery

HOME WANTED!

One bitterly cold evening in January, a very kind lady opened her front door and found a very tatty tabby cat on her doormat. He looked totally dejected and had such a pleading look in his eyes she invited him in.

Cats Protection took him a few days later.

One bitterly cold evening in January, a very He was neutered, de-matted and started his kind lady opened her front door and found a He was very unsure of himself very tatty tabby cat on her doormat.injections.

He and looked totally dejected and had such a people, as he had been a stray for so pleading look in his eyes she invited him in. long, but after some TLC and good food, he Cats Protection took him a few days later. has become a very loving chatty cat.

He was neutered, de-matted and started his handsome,in semi-fluffy dark One bitterly coldAevening January, atabby, very injections. He was very unsure of himself now door thoroughly life.aHe and people, as he had been a strayMaverick for so front kind lady opened her andenjoys found attention and head butts all the time. long, but after some TLC and goodloves food, he very tatty cat her4 years doormat. has become a very lovingtabby chatty cat.

He ison about old andHe is ready to be A handsome, semi-fluffy dark tabby, rehomed.and Ideally he would looked totally dejected had suchlike a someone to Maverick now thoroughly enjoys life.

He be around day. He will in. love a safe pleading inthe his eyesduring she the invited him loves attention and headlook butts all time. garden and would probably make friends He is about 4 years old and is ready to be Cats Protection took him a few days later. with the rehomed. Ideally he would like someone to cat next door! be around during the day.

He will love a safe We don't know how he would be with He was neutered, de-matted and started his young garden and would probably make friends children or dogs

HOME WANTED!

MAVERICK

Your pet matters to us

One bitterly cold evening in January, a very kind lady opened her front door & found a very tatty tabby cat on her doormat. He looked totally dejected & had such a pleading look in his eyes, she invited him in.

Cats Protection took him in a few days later.

He was neutered, de-matted & started injections.

He was very unsure of himself with the cat next door! his injections.

He was unsure himself & people, as he We don't and know how he wouldas be with young people, he had been avery stray sohomeof Can you give Maverick the for loving he so richly deserves? children or dogs PleaseTLC ring 020 8390 3165 for further information. long, been but after and good food, he had a some stray forSue soonlong, but after some TLC & good food, Can you give Maverick the loving home he so richly deserves?

Epsom Ewell & District Branch http://www.epsom.cats.org.uk has become a very loving chatty cat. heSuehas a very loving chatty cat.

Please ring on 020become 8390 3165Iffor further information. you cannot adopt a cat but would still like to help us please go to A handsome, semi-fluffy dark tabby, https://www.justgiving.com/Epsom-Cats-Protection A handsome semi-fluffy dark tabby, Maverick now thoroughly Maverick now thoroughly enjoys life. He enjoys life. he attention & head butts all the time. He is loves attention andloves head butts all the time.

Asold we have around 7,000 cats and in our care atIdeally any He is about 4 years old ready to about 4 years &and iswillisatready tobe bekittens rehomed. he would As we have around 7,000 cats and one kittens in our any you the perfect feline friend. time, wecare rehomed.

Ideally he would likefind someone to one time, we will find you the perfect feline friend. like someone to be during be around duringwww.cats.org.uk the day.around He will love a safe the day. He will love a safe www.cats.org.uk Regprobably Charity 203644 (England and Wales) andwith SC037711 (Scotland) garden and would make friends garden & he might make friends the cat next door! with don’t the cat know next door!

We how he would be with young children or dogs.

MAVERICK

Epsom Ewell & District Branch http://www.epsom.cats.org.uk

If you cannot adopt a cat but would still like to help us please go to https://www.justgiving.com/Epsom-Cats-Protection

Join Aspen Pet Care Plan Save Money, Spread Costs, Pay Monthly,

Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) and SC037711 (Scotland)

We don't know how he would be with young children or dogs

Can you give Maverick the loving home he so richly deserves?

Please ring Sue on 020 8390 3165 for further information.

Epsom Ewell & District Branch http://www.epsom.cats.org.uk If you cannot adopt a cat but would still like to help us please go to https://www.justgiving.com/Epsom-Cats-Protection

Open Mon-Fri: 8am-7.30pm Sat: 8.30-11am 24 hour Emergency Service

www.aspenvets.co.uk

As we have around 7,000 cats and kittens in our care at any one time, we will find you the perfect feline friend.

351 Ewell Road, Tolworth, KT6 7BZ

020 8399 6437

www.cats.org.uk Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) and SC037711 (Scotland)

Does Your Pet Have An Allergy?

It’s not just unwanted visitors that make your pet scratch.

Allergies are common in most domestic pets, and scratching is just one sign that something’s not right.

You might notice a loss of fur if your dog has dermatitis, and is constantly scratching to relieve the itch. Potential triggers include new shampoos, a different type of food, or a seasonal allergy, as these affect animals just as much as humans.

PETS

General signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction Here are one or two signs to look out for so you can treat your pet as quickly as possible: • Cats: lesions, lumps and bumps on their skin – these are often felt rather than seen, and may be accompanied by bald patches around the base of the tail or underside of the body.

• Dogs: frequently shaking its head – look for signs of redness in the ears, as it could be the start of an allergen-based infection.

• Rabbits: flaky skin or soreness in the ears can be caused by an allergy to mites.

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Bee stings are particularly dangerous A puppy’s natural inquisitive and playful nature invariably leads it into dangerous situations, but if it chews or swallows a bee, the resulting reaction can be severe.

It could cause their face to swell, with breathing problems developing from a narrowed airway, and you’ll need to get emergency help from your vet in such cases. They may prescribe an EpiPen so you’re prepared if it happens again.

http://www.petplan.co.uk/allergies. asp http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/ healthypets/archive/2012/06/22/ pets-seasonal-allergies.aspx

By Ann Haldon

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Madeline Bell Talking.....

I

was born in Newark NJ, the city of singers. My choir was always in competitions, New York Baptist choir, with Dionne Warwick, Dee Dee Warwick, Cissy Houston, mother of Whitney, and Sarah Vaughan, mum's best friend. I grew up in church, hated school. I stayed away 51 days straight, till they threw me out! I left school at 16, I went to my cousin's house, I played with the kids whilst she slept! It was on the way to school, so I didn't worry about anyone following me.

On day 51 there was a knock on the door, it was my grandmother. As I opened the door, I got this WHACK! So I did go to school for the next couple of days, then it was Summer Holidays. I went back in September, but I'd turned 16 during the holiday, so they expelled me. I left and got a job the same day in a supermarket. I was a meat wrapper, with the cellophane and the iron. I've still got the scars!

I sang in all the choirs, at school, at church in the gospel choir. I loved it. My grandmother was a dancer at the Cotton Club in the 1930's, so all her friends would come over to the house, as long as I was quiet, she said that children were seen not heard.

I've been writing my memoirs for 4 years, don't know if it will ever come out! It will either be called The Singer Speaks or Running my Mouth!!

Everyone who knows me, knows I love to talk!! I was in a group, Black Nativity, that came over to UK in the 1962. Actually Black Nativity was written by a black renaissance writer, opened off Broadway Nov '61 (I was 19 at the time) and on the last night an Italian impresario came in and said he wanted to take the show to Italy. In June 62 we went to Italy.

The idea was 4 weeks in Italy, then come to England, record something for Associated Rediffusion total for 6 weeks and we would go. And I'm still here!!

I recorded a cover version of Dionne Warwick's hit I'm gonna make you love me, which reached higher in the US Billboard charts than the original, the only top 30 hit I've ever had. Her backing singers were Lesley Duncan, myself and Dusty Springfield.

Lesley wrote love songs for Elton John, Olivia Newton John.

How did Blue Mink start?: All the singers in Blue Mink used to meet in the studios at the same time,

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because in the 60's everything was recorded all at the same time.

Not like that now.

It meant I met the same musicians and singers all the time. One day I had a call from Roger Coulam, keyboard player ( original Je t'aime song), who was putting together an album of 10 tracks.

But he said they were getting a bit boring, and had a couple of vocals, would I like to come in to do them with Roger Cook, another backing singer. We recorded the song in 3 takes. It was decided that it was so good, they wanted to release it as a single and did I want to join the group? A sheer fluke! We never expected it to reach the top of the charts, and Top of the Pops wouldn't have us on the show. But the producer called me and said if I went to dinner with him, the group could be on the show. That's how it worked in those days! So we didn't bother. Luckily, Tony Blackburn started to play the record, and by the Christmas we were number 3 in the charts. Number 1 originally was Sugar, Sugar, Honey, Honey for a few weeks, then it dropped and was replaced by another song shooting up the charts, 2 Little Boys.

The song, Melting Pot, got a mixed reaction because of the lyrics. Roger Cook and Roger Greenaway, who wrote the song, were prolific writers, ('I see that worried look upon your face', 'I'd like to teach the world to sing'). Roger Cook got a call from their S African publishers, who wanted to release the song, on condition the lyrics were changed. What was the point? Right up to this year, there was a DJ on BBC Radio 3 County, who put the record on, doesn't get as far as the chorus but snatches the record off, calling it a racist record. I've been called a lot of things in my life, but I've never been called a racist!! He wouldn't play it, but on Facebook people were asking who was this idiot? We had loads of support. I think he got the sack.

It was never intended to insult anyone, it was a protest song. Roger said it was tongue in cheek, the original words were' turn out khaki coloured people' and we went you can't say that. It doesn't sound right.

But if you listen to some of the lyrics of some of the young singers today, it's all about sex, or violence.

I live in Spain now, and I was in the petrol station

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one day, and there was a song playing, and the words were disgusting, but the cashier didn't know what they were. So I went in and in my pigeon Spanish I tried to tell him to take it off. He didn't understand why. There was another English customer in there who spoke better Spanish, and he explained. The cashier was horrified and he stopped it. Some of the language is awful, it's disrespectful to women.

asked for all the Blue Mink group to come on it as well.

Over 50 years I've played some of the top clubs in the UK, including Ronnie Scott's. That's my favourite, but I avoided it for 25 years. Every time I went there to see other artists, Ronnie would come over and ask me when I was going to play there? Big shoes to fill! I had my cousins with me, so I said yes, when? He came straight back with a date! 6 weeks later, I was so nervous, I don't consider myself a jazz singer. We went in and did everything, 'Great Balls of Fire' and it was brilliant! That was in 1987, since then I have done Ronnie Scott's every year, 27 times, every year. But before then I did all the clubs all over the country. It was called paying your dues, but you don't have to do that nowadays.... just go on X-Factor!!

Rolling Stones: You can't always get what you want, I'm playing tambourine as well. Back then, no one was credited on the records. The record company was just about money. We were so ripped off! A few years ago, there was a commercial on TV for 'Freederm', and they used the original recording of Good Morning Freedom. Never contacted us, never asked, and when we contacted them they said we had signed away our rights in the 60's. We said prove it and they couldn't. They didn't want to have a contract with us, so they recorded a song with another group. But luckily for us, the product didn't sell, so they took it off.

I sang on Eurovision contest, together with 2 sisters we were backing singers for a German singer, who was brilliant. She had done all the American bases, but no one back stage liked her, so she didn't get any votes.

What is my connection with Strictly? My band is Dave Arch, and Trevor Banning, who wears the leather cap, and plays bass, is my musical director.

Dave is on keyboard, Paul Dunn plays guitar, Frank McCarthy is percussionist, and Tommy, the big black guy with the bald head, is the best singer in the whole of the GB. Well that is my band! We were playing in Ronnie's and the producers of Strictly came in and took the band when the show started.

Now I don't work in the UK much, because if my band is working, I don't want to work with another band. So the only time I work in the UK or London is when the band can work with me. We did Ronnie's in June. We were so good!

Nov 15 at the Cadagon Hall London, I will be doing a Ray Charles concert with the Jazz Orchestra from the Concertgebouw of Amsterdam. We promoted the film Ray when it came out. We've done about 90 shows and it's coming to London, so excited.

Dusty Springfield, I did a lot of the backing for her and on her TV shows, along with Kikki Dee; Elton John, the whole album with the black cover we're singing. Elton actually sang on the Blue Mink album as Reg Dwight. So when he did the Black album, he

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Rod Stewart, I've sung on several of his albums, and I sing in a rock group, The SAS Band, and we went to Italy to his wedding to sing. He was supposed to join us, but no-one could find him. He was drunk on the couch in the lobby!

John Lennon, 'Power to the People': we were booked for Abbey Road Studios, to be there at 6 o'clock all 15 singers, and we all turned up an hour half early, but John changed his mind. Wanted to do the recording at his house. We drove through the rush hour to his place at Sunningdale.... WOW! We get there and his staff said he's changed his mind again. He's gone to Abbey Road. But some dinner had been laid on for us. I asked to see the white room, where there was the white piano.

So we got back on the coach back to Abbey Road, where John & Yoko met us. He wasn't ready for us, there was a big argument upstairs with Alan Klien, who was behind the break-up of the Beatles, and Phil Spector. After 2 hours he came down and told us what he wanted us to do.

Often you didn't know who you were singing with until you arrived in the studio.

Stevie Wonder, around '71-72, I was asked to come and do the backing to just one of the songs in his set as he wasn't happy with the backing, and could I bring another singer. Two weeks, and we would get ÂŁ200 each. We would have paid him! I rang Pat Arnold and she said yeah, girl. We went to his hotel suite and there were keyboards all round the room, and he knew where they all were. He told us what we had to sing. So for two weeks we sang one line and watched Stevie Wonder perform, and got paid!

Unbelievable!

Continued on page 12

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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One night before we went on I was by the side of the stage, and Stevie came up and said 'what you doing with that drink in your hand, girl?' I said how did you know I had a drink? He said he heard the ice cubes.

I saw him 3 years ago in Chicago, for a jazz festival and he said his favourite line: 'long time no see you'. No plans to see him again, he might think I'm stalking him.

Freddie Mercury, on the Barcelona album. Sept '88, he called and asked me to go with him to Barcelona to promote the Olympics for the next games. But Barcelona was the only place that didn't use the song as background. I think it was because of what he died from. He wrote it for the opera singer Montserrat CaballĂŠ. Went there for 3 days, everyone was there and I had the opportunity to introduce Freddie to Dionne. He was so nervous and shy.

I knew Cliff Richard, Joe Cocker, Jimi Hendrix and I used to live with Jimi, or rather we shared a flat. My husband played drums in a band originally called The Checkmates, early 60's, then he joined band The Ferris Wheel.

They were playing in a club in London and this guy came over & asked if he could jam with them.

They gave him a guitar and he turned around and played it. Eric Clapton, George Harrison came to the club to see this kid play. The first time I met him, he walked into the lounge with the guitar strapped across his back and big rollers in his hair!! He liked my cooking, and he had good manners. Called me Miss Madeline. Such a sweet guy.

John Paul Jones of Led Zepplin is a great friend and I am god mother to his daughter, Tammy. She is 47 now. They always call me when they are doing something. His wife called me to ask if I wanted to have 2 tickets to see the group at O2, including the boat trip down the Thames. And I couldn't find anyone to go with me!! My husband was ill, so I had to give the ticket away.

I've done several TV commercials and advert jingles.

Every time it was played, you got paid. Some you had to sing in other languages, but I didn't know what I was singing!!

I was the first female radio presenter on BBC Radio 1.

It was a programme called Celebrity DJ, 55 minutes.

They called me when Noel Edmunds was having an

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argument with the Beeb, so I went to do 4 weeks. He never went back, so I followed Tony Blackman for 13 weeks on Sunday mornings. I really enjoyed it. In early 80's, I was doing the talk and chat.

Working live, things go wrong, so what stands out?

Lakeside Club in Surrey. I went in the afternoon on the Sunday and did the sound check etc. I came back in the evening, they announce 'Ladies & Gentlemen, please welcome Madeline Bell and the band....' I go marching on the stage and I went flying in the air and landed on my back, but right on time I started the song!! They didn't tell me they had polished the floor. Terrible back pain.

The elastic went in my knickers when I went on at the Talk of the Town, one time.

And on Britannia, I was introduced in the Limelight Club, and I had been standing holding my fan, so I went on stage. But I'd forgotten my mike, so I told David Laker my musical director to keep playing whilst I went off, back to the dressing room to collect the mike and return on stage.

What keeps me going? I enjoy what I do! I love it, the hardest part is the travelling. If you don't like what you're doing, get out! My second job after wrapping meat, was wrapping toys on a conveyer belt. I lasted a month.

What has been the highlight of my 50 year career?

Very difficult. I have to say, it is where I am at right now. I have to thank Dusty. I met her at a Ready Steady Go New Year's Eve party 1969, and she asked me to do a session with her. So without her I wouldn't be here. Elvis Presley was in my fan club.

What is my view on X Factor, well I think it is sad, I feel sorry for them because they haven't done their dues in the clubs. If they win, they are assigned a psycho, and if they lose they are just dropped.

I found love, but my husband died about 5 years ago.

He was Barry Reeves, the drummer of Ferris Wheel and the James Last Orchestra, and we married in 1988, although we had known each other in the 60's.

He used to play drums for me until he broke his arm and gave up drumming. He became my manager.

We were in a restaurant and he stood up and had a stroke and fell, hitting his head. Unfortunately he caught pneumonia and died. I miss him.

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Anna Dennis Acupuncture Qualified acupuncturist and member of the British Acupuncture Council

CATHERINE BAYLISS D.H.D.P; M.B.C.H.

Hypnotherapist/Psychologist Principal of British College of Hypnotherapy _____________________________________________

STOP SMOKING without gaining weight LOSE WEIGHT without losing your temper

Special interest in fertility and pregnancy:  Treatment to aid natural conception  Support through IUI/ IVF/ ICSI  Pregnancy, pre-birth and postlabour acupuncture.

Other common conditions seen in clinic include: anxiety, arthritis, back pain, chronic fatigue, circulatory problems, digestive disorders, menopausal symptoms, menstrual problems, migraines, neurological disorders, sciatica.

6 Ditton Reach, Thames Ditton, KT7 0XB

Tel: 07967 673 465 Email: annaden@hotmail.com

www.annadennisacupuncture.co.uk

Oh Review!

Writers crave reviews almost as much as they fear them. Bad reviews are like a terrible exam result even though you revised. (Geography, since you ask.)

As painful as they undoubtedly are, they are also useful.

1. Think of them as a vaccination. After a jab or two you’re much more resilient to something unpleasant.

2. Online reviews can contain vauable information. When several reviewers make the same observation, it’s probably worth looking into.

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

Conquer fears, habits, phobias, stress, anxiety, exam nerves, insomnis, confidence and much more.

Learn self hypnosis the easy way to relieve stress, pain and improve motivation to achieve whatever you want. _____________________________________________

CHESSINGTON HYPNOTHERAPY CLINIC

Est. 1981. Days/Eves/Weekends

020 8397 3146 3. You can see what the reviewer thought of other books. If they review a famous author’s book in the same vein, you’re in good company! When my debut thriller, Standpoint, received a similar stinker to a Harlan Coben novel it made my day.

4. You learn to step back from your work. Even when it’s autobiographical, your work isn’t you. Other people’s opinions are beyond your control.

5. Even bad reviews can be turned to your advantage. I was interviewed on local radio and they kicked off by sharing one of my worst reviews. Apart from being funny - a sense of humour about these things helps - it gave me the perfect opportunity to talk about my book and how the ‘misunderstanding’ had occurred. (I don’t mind someone disliking my work, as long as it’s an accurate dislike!)

6. Bad reviews add contrast. If you ever see a book with nothing but glowing online reviews, aren’t you just the teensiest bit suspicious?

It’s only fair that I show you exactly what I mean! http://www.amazon.co.uk//dp/B00UVQBVVU/ #customerReviews

By Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.co.uk

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

13

Ballet in Surbiton

SOFT DRINKS AVAILABLE

Royal Academy of Dance Examinations £11.95 *Please note King Prawn & Fish Dishes are £2 extra

020 8399 0030/3904

285 Ewell Road, Surbiton

www.prithicuisine.co.uk

St Andrew’s & St Mark’s Junior School Surbiton

Classical Ballet

Summer Term begins Saturday 16th April 2016 For more information contact:

020 8398 2463 / 6140 EMail: balletinsurbiton@aol.com

Fruiterer & Greengrocer

155 Surbiton Hill Park, Berrylands, Surbiton Tel: 020 8399 5550 Mob: 07753 690 518 Fax: 020 8390 9231

Fruits in Season Clementines, Melons, Berries, Fresh Figs, Fresh Dates, New crop Pears, Apples from NZ and SA Yorkshire Grown Indoor Rhubarb

Vegetables in Season Broccoli, Purple Sprouting Broccoli, Carrots, Parsnips, Romanesca, Curly Kale, Rainbow Chard, Spring Cabbage, Leeks, All Fresh Herbs All varieties of New Crop Tomatoes

We have the following available: We can supply any items for your special Dairy products, milk, cream, occasion - 24 hours notice required.

Please contact us to discuss your yogurt, cheese and requirements: Tel: 020 8399 5550 fresh bread daily Daily delivery & 24 hr answering service. All types of restaurants, bars, cafes, schools, pubs, nursing homes and deli bars supplied.

Free Local Home Delivery Available

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EP Feb 15 Proof 1 .indd 1

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26/02/2015 12:43:08

0208 390 7564

0208 3

0 2 0 8 3 9 00 7250684 3 9 0 7 5 6 4

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Wedding Receptions Tea Parties Christenings nce Canape Parties c Private Functions enus

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Parties Wedding Receptions Afternoon Wedding ReceptionsAfternoon Tea Late Licence Christenings Late Lice Christenings Live MusicLive Musi Canape Parties Canape Parties Private Functions Tailored M Private Functions Tailored Menus To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096 email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk 15

Spring brings us the magic of the new succulent lamb!

says Alan Jennings

T

his time of year is great for those who enjoy the wonderful taste of lamb. The new season offerings will soon be with us. The exact dates for this vary each year, of course. If we have some bright months in the late winter this can bring on our lambs a little earlier.

Usually we start the new season with our Scottish suppliers, who were chosen by us several decades ago for their unfailing professionalism and the quality of their pastures. This is reflected in the quality of their lambs and the taste of the meat on your table.

These are followed by top-quality lambs from the Colne valley in Essex. They are sent to us from a farm which we know well, because they also supply us with our Gloucester Old Spot pigs and Christmas Geese.

Then, last of all and eagerly awaited, comes the next wave of lambs, those from the Romney Salt Marshes . These benefit from the comparative mildness of the SouthEast, which gives the pastures an early start and the lambs have access to the nourishing first growth of the new season’s grass. In contrast to what their grazing conditions suggest the meat they produce is delicately sweet and succulent.

We and our customers look forward to all these new lambs. They are quality through and through, because they are all raised by careful traditional farming husbandry methods. The gorgeous taste of the meat reflects this.

16

All the many cuts of lamb which we can offer receive the same careful professional care in our shop. There’s a range of prime cuts such as Leg, Shoulder or Rack of Lamb and of course some juicy chops, cutlets and steaks.

Don’t let’s us forget that one of the best ways of cooking lamb is braising and slow cooking to bring out the subtle flavours.

We can give advice on the best cuts for curries, tagines, hot pots and traditional stews. So please come and talk to us and we will be able to recommend something really special.

Are you an early BBQ Enthusiast?

If you’re already digging out the BBQ from the garage and planning for a season of al fresco dining we will have all our BBQ fare available from April. The traditional BBQ favourites such as sausages, chicken and burgers as well as more specialist items like racks of ribs, butterflied legs of lamb and a large variety of steaks. We look forward to seeing you!

Happy Eating!

Alan C.D.Jennings & Sons Traditional Quality Butchers since 1962 146 Ewell Road Surbiton KT6 6HE

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 Since 1962 .

Proud Suppliers of:

Scotch Beef Scotch Highland & Romney Salt Marsh Lamb Free Range & Gloucester Old Spot Pork Free Range Chickens & Ducks Balmoral & Royal Deeside Venison Kelly Bronze Free Range Turkeys Own Make Sausages, Burgers & Kebabs

New Parking Situation It is now easier to park by our shop.

Pay & Display bays operate between 10am-4pm with the first 30 minutes free.

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

17

Pork Jambalaya Serves 4

Ready in 55 minutes Cooked in just one pan and on the table in less than an hour this is a great midweek family supper.

Serve with garlic bread or a mixed green salad, if liked.

Ingredients: • 1 tbsp groundnut oil • 100g chorizo sausage, sliced • 350g pork loin steaks, cut into chunks • 1 onion, peeled and chopped • 3 celery stalks, trimmed and chopped • 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed • 2 tsp smoked paprika, plus extra for sprinkling • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning • 225g easy-cook long grain rice • 700ml vegetable stock • 100g fine green beans, chopped • 1 large yellow pepper, deseeded and diced

TIP

You can replace the pork in this recipe with diced chicken breast fillet or boneless thigh fillets. Alternatively use large raw king prawns and add them to the pan in step 4 and cook until pink.

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Heat 1 tsp of the oil in a large deep frying pan and fry the chorizo over a high heat until golden and the fat starts to run.

Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.

Add the diced pork to the pan and fry for 2-3 minutes, stirring all the time until browned. Remove and set aside with the chorizo. Add the rest of the oil to the pan and fry the onion, celery and garlic for 5 minutes until beginning to soften.

Stir in the spices and rice and cook, stirring, over a medium heat for 2 minutes then pour in the stock and bring to the boil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Return the pork to the pan and cover and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in the chorizo, green beans and yellow pepper into the pan and cook, uncovered, for a further 6-7 minutes until the rice and vegetables are tender, adding a little more stock if necessary.

Serve sprinkled with a little more smoked paprika and freshly ground black pepper.

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

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Contact Jon Martin jon@rebelwaltz-cyclesolutions.co.uk 07514 435855

The Life List School Reports Gone are the dark days when the dunce’s cap and corporal punishment were the natural order, and good riddance to them both I say.

But perhaps now the pendulum has swung too far the other way?

Everyone seems to get a prize for something or other and even school reports sound too good to be true. That is, until you can read between the lines.

Excellent social skills and positive personal relationships. (She won’t stop chatting in class to make arrangements for the weekend.)

Good with his hands. (A bully.)

Technologically gifted. (Always playing with her mobile phone, but very useful if you’re having trouble downloading an app.)

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

      

            

A natural performer. (She is disruptive and better suited to a stage school, or home schooling, or someone else’s school.)

Extremely imaginative. (A daydreamer or a liar, or both.)

Consistent with her timekeeping. (Always late. A future career as a train announcer.)

Very artistic. (He keeps drawing on the desks, and the chairs, and the teacher.)

She has a fondness for nature. (She brings spiders into class.)

Very interested in the wider world. (He is a persistent truant.)

She loves the great outdoors. (She escapes out of a window at every opportunity.)

A passionate communicator, who sticks up for other pupils. (He has formed a union in class and is now threatening to take strike action.)

She is ambitious. (She cheats in tests, and sucks up to the teacher, but her parents send great end of term presents.)

Class dismissed!

By Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.co.uk

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

19

American Presidents

Adams Arthur Bush Carter Cleveland Clinton Eisenhower Ford Garfield Grant Harrison Hayes Jackson Jefferson Kennedy Lincoln Madison

Monroe Nixon Obama Pierce

Polk Reagan Truman Tyler

Find the names of American Presidents in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase

› SERVICING & REPAIRS

› MOT’S -

COLLECTIONS & DELIVERY

› HEALTH CHECKS -

LEVELS, LIGHTS, TYRES & PRESSURE CHECKS

is a mobile engineering service that can manage all of your vehicle needs. With over 20 years’ experience at Surbiton Hill Garage, we are passionate about continuing to provide a quality service in the local area, direct to your door.

› DIAGNOSTICS › ACCIDENT REPAIRS › AIR CONDITIONING › VEHICLE SALES & PURCHASING

Call 020 3816 0441 email info@walshvm.com or visit walshvm.com

20

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Privacy Glass Blacked out window glass, or “privacy glass” to give it its more “sales appeal” name, just makes my blood boil. Just who is the occupant trying to gain “privacy” from anyway? I am convinced there is a correlation between the more blacked out the car, the more insignificant the occupant.

I’ll excuse those tasteless US style stretch limos though. Painted white to match the shoes of the occupants and topped off with blacked out windows, those things slide along our completely unsuitable streets like slugs.

Drunk and singing “Hi-Ho Silver Lining”, these people are definitely not a pretty sight to inflict on the public, so in this case, “privacy glass” is doing us all a favour.

More seriously, there is danger caused by this

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

stuff being stuck on windows of cars the countryover. There are rules as to the opacity and what windows it can be stuck to, but in numerous instances I have seen these flouted.

You see, at a junction it’s a great comfort to be able to see the driver of another car and what they are up to: Have they seen you? Will they give way?

Getting such an acknowledgement or maintaining eye contact for matters of safety is vital, but if the others car has “privacy glass”, that vital link is broken.

Driver’s of Britain I appeal to you! Stop sticking this stuff to your car windows.

We drive on the public highway, and trying to be “private” whilst using it only leads to increased danger, and marks the driver out as insignificant to boot. But then, just like the lack of light this stuff lets through, they are just too dim to see that.

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

21

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:

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Office - 020 8397 8654 Garage - 07784 716 567 (For instant attention)

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Berrylands Autocare * MOT Testing (while you wait) * Diagnostic Testing * Servicing & Mechanical Repairs * Open until 5.30pm weekdays * Saturdays: 9.00am to 1.00pm

250 yards from main line Berrylands Station Providing a service for our local community

020 8399 4362

info@berrylandsautocare.co.uk www.berrylandsautocare.co.uk

167 Surbiton Hill Park, Surbiton, Surrey, KT5 8EJ

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 2016 Take your pick from gentle exercise to more vigorous activity ‘It improved my fitness and helped me lose weight- inspiring!’

Nordic walking: Richmond Park, Tues,12th April, 10.30am Aquacise: Kingfisher Leisure Centre, Kingston, Wed,13th April,11.45 am Body Balance: St James’ Church, New Malden,Thurs,14th April ,12.30pm Chair based exercise: The Berry Pub, Berrylands, Fri 15th April, 12.30pm All courses include healthy lifestyles/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

23

Beer of the Month

All the talk in the beer world for the last two or three years has been of craft brewers and craft beers. But what’s the difference between the craft brewers of today and the straightforward microbrewers of yesteryear?

Well, to the naked eye the most obvious distinction is that craft brewers are much more adventurous in typography and graphic design. Their labels tend to be an undisciplined jumble of colours and fonts and there are generally far too many words, none of which tell you much about the actual contents. So let’s turn to the contents now, and compare an ultramodern hyperactive craft IPA to a version made by a brewery that’s been ploughing the same row for so long now it must surely have succumbed to boredom long ago.

Punk IPA at 5.6% abv comes from Brewdog, the pioneering Scottish craft brewer that came to fame through its use of negative marketing, courting controversy to gain the media’s attention. This is perhaps the country’s best-selling craft beer – but is it any good?

Well, it’s certainly interesting. My little tasting panel identified aromas of Rooibos bubble bath (honest!), lemongrass, basil, straw and peach, while the palate was honeyed, viscous, sweet, and not unlike a passion fruit J2O – certainly with none of the bitterness you’d expect from an IPA. Similarly the finish – peppery, with a hint of chilli, but with no discernible hop bitterness.

Adnams, like many an old-established brewer feeling threatened by these crafty newcomers, has also gone down the bonkers-labelling route for its Innovation IPA (a hearty 6.7% abv); with far too many words, a completely made-up back story, and a list of exotic hop varieties which looks impressive but means nothing to you and me. The beer, though, pleased: sweet citrus notes on the nose – mandarin or perhaps tangelo; a richer, creamier mouth feel than Punk IPA with a slightly soapy sweetness; and a rich, dark, lingering finish.

So, then: both excellently fruity and complex beers. Neither of them a bit like an IPA, though.

By Ted Bruning

24

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Painting and Decorating Roofing and Guttering Plastering and Tiling Household Maintenance Loft conversions and extensions Marcus & Sarah Baines 020 8390 7549 07702 603 885 berrylands-property@blueyonder.co.uk

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No obligation quotations. References available.

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CJM Plumbing and Heating To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

25

Older, But Not Always Wiser The main characters of these books may be in their twilight years, but they certainly aren’t content to sit back and spend their pensions on Werther’s Originals and bingo nights. With amateur sleuths, explosive experts and adventurers amongst them, they’ll keep you reading well past a sensible bedtime.

Elizabeth is Missing – Emma Healey 82-year old Maud is determined to solve the mystery of where her best friend Elizabeth has disappeared to. While she’s at it, she’d also like to figure out what happened to her sister, who went missing more than 60 years ago. The problem is that Elizabeth has been getting a bit forgetful lately, and the clues keep getting muddled in her head. With twists and turns aplenty, you’ll be left guessing until the end. Definitely a ‘just one more chapter and then I’ll go to sleep’ kind of book.

The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper – Phaedra Patrick Arthur Pepper likes the quiet life, but that all changes when he discovers a charm bracelet hidden away in his late wife’s things. Arthur’s cross-country quest to discover the meaning of each of the charms sees him uncovering a side to his wife he never knew existed. But will his new found knowledge help him come to terms with her death, or forever taint his memories of her? A thoroughly enjoyable read, with great characters and a page-turning storyline, this is Phaedra Patrick’s debut novel, but we wouldn’t be surprised to see her on the bestseller lists very soon.

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The Extra Ordinary Life of Frank Derrick, Age 81 – J.B. Morrison Being run over by a milk float wasn’t on Frank’s to-do list for the day, and he sure as heck isn’t going to let some interfering home-help try to baby him. Nope, he’s quite content on his own, with his cat Bill, his DVDs and a series of cold callers trying to sell him things he doesn’t need. But home-help Kelly Christmas proves rather more likeable than he expected, and he starts to realise that life can indeed begin again at 81. With his biting sense of humour, Frank will keep you laughing all the way through this immensely entertaining book.

George’s Grand Tour – Caroline Vermalle When George tells people he’s going to do the Tour de France, some are rather concerned.

He is, after all, 83. However, George has a slightly less taxing plan in mind; he’s going to do the Tour by car, with a friend. Agreeing to check in with his granddaughter, Adele, by text along the route, he sets off across the country. In the end, the journey may prove as lifechanging for Adele as it is for George, as she starts to really appreciate the man who, until now, has just been a name on her birthday cards.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry – Rachel Joyce Staid, reliable Harold lives with his wife Maureen in Devon.

When Harold receives a letter from an old friend, Queenie, telling him she’s terminally ill, he pens a short reply and sets off to the post box. But his walk to the end of the road turns into a somewhat longer trip, as he decides to deliver the letter in person, and on foot. As he travels the long road north, both Harold and Maureen are given the time to look back on their long marriage, and figure out whether it can be saved.

Beautifully written, and at times extremely poignant, this book is highly recommended.

The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared – Jonas Jonasson Allan has just about had enough of his care home, with its condescending manager, rubbish food and endless rules. So on his 100th birthday he makes his escape, in his slippers. After stealing a suitcase full of money, Allan begins a dash across country, picking up new friends as he goes (including an elephant called Sonya). As we learn of his extraordinary life, it becomes clear that there’s rather more to this centenarian than meets the eye, including a passion for explosives…

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International Tennis again at Surbiton

G

reat news for all local tennis enthusiasts! Once again, Surbiton Racket and Fitness Club will host the prestigious Aegon Surbiton tournament, which will run from Saturday the 4th June 2016 to Sunday the 12th. This is a truly international tournament, part of the worldwide Challenger series, and it’s the top event in our Club Calendar.

The history of this tournament takes us back as far as 1904. In those days most of the top players in the world came to play here at Surbiton each year, because it was one of the first important events of the grass court season in the weeks leading up to Wimbledon itself.

In those days many young hopefuls competed with the stars of the day at Surbiton and went on to become stars themselves and win other trophies around the world. The young Roger Federer played here in 1999 before going on to dominate tennis for a long spell. The names of the many other stars read like a roll-call of tennis honours. For instance: Sue Barker, Greg Rusedski, Billie-Jean King, Lleyton Hewitt and a host of great names from across the years.

Recent winners have been no less distinguished.

For instance, our 2007 winner was Jo-Wilfred Tsonga, who since then went on to a top-ten world ranking.

Our staging of the Aegon Surbiton tournament underlines the high status that our Club enjoys in the world of tennis. In the summer season we can offer eleven carefully nurtured grass courts, which only the top elite clubs can match, plus nine hard courts as backup for bad weather use.

Please add this prestigious Event to your diary. Or, it’s not too early to secure your tickets. Check out the website www.LTA.org. uk/aegonsurbitontrophy or call our booking To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

hotline 0844 581 1530. We will give full day-byday details of Aegon Surbiton in next month’s Berrylands Companion.

Meanwhile, there’s a lot happening at the Club, as ever! Our nine hard courts are in almost constant use, since eight of themh are floodlit for evening tennis. Three of these courts are laid in synthetic clay, and this has proved most popular with our Members.

Our many hard courts are ideal for our extensive programme of all-ages tennis coaching, which continues all the year round.

Squash has always been very popular at the Club. Our four state-of-the-art courts are all air-conditioned and heated as necessary.

Saturday nights are special, when our Squash Club Nights offer the opportunity to meet new opponents. From 5.30pm onwards, every Saturday, so don’t miss the fun! There’s also a Beginners’ Squash Evening on Sundays from 5pm to 6pm.

Another very popular feature is our spacious Fitness Suite, where we have some of the latest equipment, from cardio-vascular aids to resistance machines and free weights. We also have a Studio for our regular classes in Zumba, Pilates, Yoga and Indoor Cycling. And you can enjoy Cardiotennis and Racketball, too.

We’re a friendly Club, as you would soon find. Our Clubhouse Bar is an excellent social meeting-place, where you can relax with coffee or any one of a range of drinks. Why not pop in and look us over? You’ll be very welcome!

Best wishes Roy Roy Staniland is Director of Surbiton Racket and Fitness Club, Berrylands,KT5 8JT 0208 399 1594 www.Surbiton.org

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

27

Finance

By Ann Haldon

Don’t be Taken In By The Pension Scammers

Since new pension regulations were introduced in 2015, conmen have been using the new freedoms to target people approaching retirement. One of the scams involves telling those under the age of 55 that a ‘legal loophole’ allows them access to their full pension, with no requirement to pay tax on the money withdrawn (in reality, a rate of up to 55%).

Pension monies are then moved into an alternative scheme run by the fraudsters, with savings either being stolen or severely diminished after extortionate charges are made for the ‘service’.

To make matters worse, HM Revenue and Customs has been sending out bills to reclaim tax on the amounts withdrawn, leaving victims of the scam with no pension savings and in large-scale debt in some cases.

How can tHe conmen operate so effectively?

Although younger people are a clear target for pension scammers, those aged 55 and over are also under threat.

With no restrictions on how pension savings can be used, unscrupulous individuals and criminal groups are taking advantage of a lack of regulation within the industry,

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plus an uncertainty about how best to invest such a large amount of money.

Inefficient systems also form part of the problem, enabling conmen to set up these rogue pension schemes. HM Revenue and Customs are not pension regulators, but having introduced a ‘fit and proper person’ test in 2014, they have at least attempted to control the potential for fraudulent activity.

HMRC has the power to deregister or refuse to register a new pension scheme, but some have said they should take more responsibility for what is happening to victims, rather than chasing them for tax payments. project Bloom taskforce A new taskforce has been set up by the government and the National Crime Agency to combat the problem of pension fraud. A ‘perfect storm’ of new pension regulations, lack of awareness about where to reinvest, and the fact that large sums of money are involved, has enabled scammers to get away with too many sophisticated cons.

It’s hoped that Project Bloom will bring awareness to the issue, however, and specific advice is offered to anyone concerned about their pension.

You need to be wary of: • Anyone offering a ‘free pension review’ or access to your pension pot if you’re under the age of fifty-five • Offers of help to obtain a pension statement, or to provide a tracing service for lost pensions The Pensions Advisory Service

provides free advice if you’re worried about potential scams, or to discuss your pension options in general. a sopHisticated approacH One of the problems is that scammers set up sophisticated systems and procedures that include glossy brochures and polished, well-rehearsed speeches. This makes the entire con appear legitimate unless you’re aware that this type of fraud is taking place.

Bringing awareness of what’s happening is key to combating crimes like this, and hopefully Project Bloom will help to prevent more people suffering the devastating loss of their retirement income. watcH out for fake weBsites Fraudsters are even setting up fake websites with names very similar to legitimate bodies offering free advice. They may be able to gain access to your personal information in this way, and then contact you directly via phone or email.

It pays to check the web address you’re typing in very carefully, to ensure that the site is legitimate and not part of the fraudsters’ arsenal of tricks. http://home.bt.com/lifestyle/ money/investing-pensions/ pension-liberation-scamvictims-facing-huge-tax-bills11364036908047 http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/ money/pensions/article-3419232/ Should-pension-scam-victims-lettax-bills.html http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/ money/pensions/article-3397828/ Three-tell-tale-signs-dupedpension-fraudsters.html

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29

Hobbies Hallelujah! Why Joining A Choir Is Something To Celebrate

By Kate McLelland It’s my first session with my local community choir but we’ve spent the past twenty minutes doing physical exercises, learning breathing techniques and attempting tongue twisters.

I’m wondering when I will actually get the chance to sing?

As if he could read my mind, Graham - the Choir Director launches into an explanation of why it’s so important to spend time warming up both our bodies and our voices.

At the end of a two-hour session, during which we tackle songs ranging from “All That Jazz” from the musical Chicago to Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah”, my new choir buddies and I are all excited and elated. We are already discussing the possibility of taking part in a local festival.

that the health benefits are both physical and psychological.

“Singing has physical benefits because it is an aerobic activity that increases oxygenation in the blood stream and exercises major muscle groups in the upper body, even when sitting.”

He believes that singing is also important for mental health: “reducing stress levels through the action of the endocrine system, which is linked to our sense of emotional well-being.”

He also believes that there are psychological benefits from the increased sense of community, belonging and shared endeavour that comes from choral singing.

Choirs come in all shapes and sizes so it’s important to find one that suits you:

Back at home, reflecting on my first ever choral session, it occurred to me that there’s a lot more to joining a choir than just enjoying a good singalong, and this view is backed up by a number of high profile experts in the world of the arts, education and medical science.

ClassiCal ConCert Choirs or Choral soCieties Large choirs that stage several concerts throughout the year, sometimes with an orchestra.

They may perform concert works such as Mozart’s Requiem or Handel’s Messiah.

Professor Graham Welch, Chair of Music Education at the Institute of Education, University of London has extensively studied the developmental and medical aspects of singing. He claims

ChurCh Choirs Depending on the type of worship practised by the congregation, you could find yourself singing traditional sacred music, gospel songs or modern hymns that sound more

30

like pop hits.

Community Choirs and other singing groups Depending on what’s available in your local area you might find choirs that sing rock and pop, songs from the shows, folk songs or even beatbox and rap. Generally speaking any group that describes itself as a ‘community choir’ is less likely to require you to audition or read music.

When looking for a choir to join you can either do some research on the internet (try www.choirs.org.uk) or ask around locally. The arts page in your local newspaper will tell you which choirs are performing in your area.

Most choirs are happy to welcome new members so get in touch with the Choir Director to ask about the standard expected of new members. Do you need to audition? Is reading music a requirement? How much does it cost to join and what is the commitment?

Being in a choir provides an opportunity to sing songs you love with like-minded people, and to share your love of music with others through performance. If that doesn’t persuade you to join, then the health and wellbeing aspects of choral singing certainly should.

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

31

Cake and Bake Rhubarb & Coconut Meringue Cake There’s plenty of field grown rhubarb about this time of year and it’s perfect for pies, puddings and cakes. When buying choose firm plump stalks of rhubarb – avoid any that are floppy or bruised.

Ingredients: • 100g butter, softened • 100g light soft brown sugar • 2 medium eggs, beaten • 50g self-raising flour • 50g ground hazelnuts • Zest of 1 orange • 300g rhubarb, trimmed and chopped • 2 tbsp caster sugar FOR THE TOPPING • • • •

2 medium egg whites 50g caster sugar 75g desiccated coconut Whipped cream or Greek yoghurt, to serve

Serves 6

baking sheet in the oven to heat up. Grease a 20cm round spring-form cake tin and line the base with baking paper.

2. To make the base, place the butter and brown sugar

in a bowl and beat together until pale and creamy.

Gradually beat in the eggs then sift over the flour and fold in. Gently fold in the ground hazelnuts.

Spread the mixture in an even layer in the base of the prepared tin. Arrange the rhubarb over the top and sprinkle over the 2 tbsp caster sugar and orange zest.

3. To make the topping place the egg whites in a clean grease-free bowl and, using an electric hand held mixer, whisk until stiffly peaking. Whisk in the caster sugar until glossy then fold in the coconut.

4. Spread the coconut meringue over the top of the

rhubarb. Place the tin on the hot baking sheet and bake for 35-45 minutes or until the topping is crisp and golden. Serve warm or cold with whipped cream or Greek yoghurt.

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Ready in 1 hour 15 minutes

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1. Preheat the oven to 180C, fan 160C, Gas 4. Place a

Placing the cake tin on a hot baking sheet will help to ensure that the hazelnut sponge base is cooked through.

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Taking a break from cooking on Mothers’ Day

W

ith our offspring far from the nest, Mothers’ Day saw just myself and my husband celebrating.

He booked a table at Langley’s Restaurant and Wine Bar for our lunch.

Obviously expecting a busy lunch session, there were two sittings to accommodate everyone.

Arriving for the first sitting, we were warmly greeted and shown straight to our table where we were given the wine list, the set menu and the all important cocktail list! An order of a beer and a peach Bellini was served without delay, as we perused the menu.

Decisions made, we started with the first course. I had the Citrus Cured Salmon Pave, Jerusalem Artichoke Cream and Pickled Seasonal Vegetables, whilst my husband had the Pork and Calvados Rillette, Braeburn Apple Jelly with Toasted Sourdough Bread.

Both were quickly dispatched as they were delicious.

Choosing deserts is always a difficult one and here was no exception. It was finally decided that my husband would have the Yorkshire Rhubarb and Apple Crumble, served with Vanilla ice Cream, whilst I would have the Banoffee Pie with Caramel Sauce. Both were soon finished and plates scrapped clean.

A coffee each neatly rounded off a very pleasant meal, and I didn’t have to cook and my husband didn’t need to do the washing up!!

There were several families eating at Langley’s, and those with very young children were as well catered for as those with all adult guests.

Service was with a smile, all the food was delightfully presented, and the mains were hot and more than adequate quantities. We were asked several times if all was well, and it was.

Langley’s Restaurant is fast earning a reputation of having an interesting menu and serving well cooked food. If you are considering taking time off from cooking, you couldn’t go wrong with going along to Langley’s. They have recently taken over the floor above and renovated it to accommodate large party groups. I think that it will be another winner.

For the main course, I had the Roast Rare Beef, Yorkshire Pudding, Roast Potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The Roast Pork was my husband’s choice, and that was accompanied

by Roast Potatoes, Apple Slices and seasonal vegetables again. A small saucer of apple sauce was supplied when requested. Both meat portions were large, but we greedily ate it all. I asked for a large glass of Merlot wine to drink alongside my beef. It was light and buttery and again delicious.

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email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

33

Bank Holidays turned on another May Day when Henry himself, out a-maying on Shooter’s Hill, was similarly accosted by men clad all in Lincoln green and, in a mock kidnap, escorted to a rather luxurious Robin Hood’s bower for much feasting and a (doubtless somewhat erratic) archery display.

I

sn’t May wonderful? Not just one bank holiday, but two! Yes, two opportunities to sit for hours on the A303 on the way to the West Country, with heavy skirmishing breaking out on the back seat, Radio Two’s travel news telling you every half an hour that the A303 isn’t moving, and your dreams of arriving at the holiday cottage in time to unpack and eat a leisurely dinner, before strolling down the village pub to start the weekend in earnest beginning to look less and less likely.

But why two such unmissable opportunities for traffic jams in the same month?

Well, 1st May has been a holiday since time out of mind. Known to pagans ancient and modern as Beltane, it’s one of the few ancient festivities that can be accurately tracked down: add a few apparently supernumerary letters and it’s the Irish Gaelic for May (the month). And various manifestations of “maying” – maypoles, May garlands, May queens, May fairs, bringing in the May – have been well-documented in England since medieval times.

Robin Hood plays were traditional in some districts, complete with Merrie Men, Maid Marian, a hobby-horse, bowers decked with fresh greenery and wildflowers, dancing, drinking, and, as the day wore on, the inevitable outbreaks of immorality. Outlaw-related behaviour was not confined to the peasantry, either: on one occasion Henry VIII and a group of courtiers, all dressed as the greenwood gangsters, burst in on Queen Katherine of Aragon and were generally rowdy in a Bullingdon Club sort of way. The tables were

34

Spring Bank Holiday, by contrast, is an almost entirely modern invention in that it was introduced only in 1971 to replace Whitsun Weekend. Whitsun, of course, falls seven weeks after Easter and was therefore a hugely movable feast, migrating from late May to mid-June.

This was much to the annoyance of tidy-minded people who liked things regular. So they changed it, and thereby killed off a centuries-old Christian feast-day. How this increases the happiness of the nation is anybody’s guess.

But why should May be the focus of all this feasting and merrymaking and not, say, July, when the weather is more likely to be suited to the purpose? The answer, as some old TV gardening expert used to say – was it Percy Thrower? – lies in the soil.

To agrarian peasants down the millennia, May has always been a month of comparative idleness.

The heavy ploughing had been – or should have been – completed in April. Haymaking wouldn’t start until June. The biggest job for May was breaking last year’s fallow land and preparing it for more serious ploughing later on in the year.

Other than that the work was mainly maintenance, especially hedging and ditching; it was also when the cattle were turned out after winter, so milking, churning butter, and cheesemaking all started up for the duration of summer.

This, to us modern-day softies, might sound like back-breaking labour; but it was the true hornyhanded son of the soil’s idea of nothing to do. So what better time for tippling, wenching, carousing and generally making merrie?

Beats stationary Saturday on the A303, that’s for sure...

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35

Home & Interiors Planning A Master Bedroom

Your bedroom is a highly personal space, but if you are considering selling, or simply want to enhance your property’s value in the long term, you’ll also need to design it so it has general appeal, says Katherine Sorrell.

Your first consideration when planning a master bedroom, large or small, should always be comfort. Zone the space according to how you use it – sleeping, dressing, exercising, checking your laptop, reading – and, if it helps, draw a scaled plan of the room so you can play around with the layout. It’s nice to have your bedhead opposite the window,

36

for example, with a bedside table each side; remember to allow enough space (experts recommend at least 450mm) around the bed to give you room to change the sheets.

To create calm and order while minimising clutter, try to include as much storage as you can squeeze in. A whole wall of fitted wardrobes, with well thought-out internal drawers and divisions, is a great option, and you can add free-standing pieces such as chests of drawers and blanket boxes for character and flexibility. Given enough floor space, it may also be possible to create a separate dressing area, using a tall bedhead, a bookcase or wide wardrobe as

By Katherine Sorrell

a partition.

We can’t escape technology anywhere, and although watching TV is not necessarily conducive to a good night’s sleep it is still a lovely idea to include a TV in the bedroom – ideal for a languorous Sunday morning lie-in with croissants, coffee and a newspaper. If you don’t want to look at a blank screen the rest of the time, fitted furniture manufacturers can provide cupboards from which TVs pop up or slide out, while music specialists offer all sorts of sleek and goodlooking speakers and sound systems. You will probably also want a place to connect and site a landline phone, a small desk on which to pop your computer, e-reader or tablet, and somewhere to plug in a charger for your mobile.

Even in a bedroom, you can’t have too many plug sockets.

Luxurious, wall-to-wall carpet is always a good idea for a master bedroom, and pure new wool has just the right warm, soft, snuggly-toe feel.

Choose a high quality underlay for extra bounce and softness.

That said, you could combine underfloor heating with engineered wooden boards and beautiful rugs for a more traditional look with plenty of character – and still enjoy warmth underfoot. The latter option, though only possible if you are undertaking major renovations, will also save the space that would have been otherwise taken up with a radiator.

Well-designed lighting is

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an asset in any room, and the master bedroom is no different. A central pendant is fine for general, overhead light, but you can be more creative elsewhere by adding wall-mounted reading lights beside the bed, a bright, adjustable light above your dressing table and perhaps a table lamp or two to create a gentle glow. Such layers of light will provide a pleasing ambience and give you great flexibility. Conversely, for restful darkness while you are sleeping, ensure your curtains have a good blackout lining, or else choose well-fitting shutters – which will help block out noise, too.

The days of carefully matched bed linen and window treatments are long gone, yet it is still important to get this combination right. When the bed is plain, some pattern

at the window is lovely, and vice versa – simply avoid two patterns that clash. Plain curtains can look absolutely beautiful if made from a generous amount of fabric, hung from a pole with pretty finials at the ends, and finished with an edging of ruffles or a contrast border. If privacy is a problem, it may be necessary to add sheer or lace curtains, either full-length or covering the bottom half of the window only.

Considering adding an ensuite? Once a luxury, these days they are virtually a necessity, and will certainly make your home more saleable – and may even add value, too. If you have enough room for a walk-in wardrobe, there’s probably enough space to convert to an en-suite, though if you want a proper bath you’ll need to allow a

little more room. Alternatively, you could knock through and steal a little space from an adjacent room. When space is tight, compact fittings can be effective, but do make sure they are practical for regular use. While any arrangement is possible in theory, the least expensive place to install an en-suite bathroom is close to other plumbing, particularly the soil pipe. And, because the room leads directly off the bedroom, install low-noise sanitaryware and lights on dimmers, with a high-powered extractor fan that’s controlled separately from the light.

Image - Soft carpet, sumptuous curtains and a deeply buttoned headboard all add up to a sense of luxury.

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hiltern Drive ,Surbiton, Surrey, KT5 8LR20 14 13 17 11 Mob: 07941 374 324 No obligation quotations. References available. 21 9 6 18 All work guaranteed and fully insured.

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ST R N NO YLE AN EW W S & GE AV C OF AI OL LA OU BL RS E

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Vienna Schönbrunn Palace

By Solange Hando From a modest hunting lodge to a breath-taking palace and now a museum, Schönbrunn ranks among Austria’s top attractions, claiming seven million visitors a year. Restored, extended and embellished over time on the edge of Vienna, it survived a turbulent past to become the favourite summer residence of Austrian emperors for almost three centuries.

Named ‘beautiful fountain’ after an artesian well, it will soon celebrate 20 years as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its ‘remarkable Baroque ensemble and synthesis of the arts’.

Beyond the wrought iron gates, the elegant façade, painted ‘Schönbrunn yellow’, rises across a vast courtyard where horse-drawn carriages invite visitors to explore the grounds in style. But first of all, the palace beckons with over 1,000 rooms filled with chandeliers and gold, paintings, tapestries, imperial portraits, Rococo furniture and more. Much of what we see today is the legacy of Maria-Theresa, the 18th century empress and only female ruler in the Habsburg dynasty. So Schönbrunn enjoyed a golden age as palace and gardens were remodelled for the pleasure of the empress

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and her court. Most impressive is the dazzling Hall of Mirrors where, they say, six year old Mozart performed for the empress before ‘springing onto her lap and kissing her heartily’.

The Blue Chinese Salon with its rice paper hangings, the Porcelain Room and the Millions Room decorated with Indo-Persian miniatures are also due to Maria-Theresa, reflecting her love for all things exotic.

A day would barely suffice to do justice to every room opened to the public, but of special note are the Walnut Room, used as audience hall by Emperor Franz Joseph, his wife Sisi’s apartments where a secret staircase allowed her to escape from the pressures of the Court, the 43 metre long Great Gallery which hosted banquets and balls, the Hall of Ceremonies and its monumental paintings, the Chapel and the Napoleon Room where the French Emperor stayed when he occupied Vienna.

Beyond this palatial treasurefilled interior, the Habsburg displayed their wealth and power in extensive grounds, from the botanical garden and Europe’s oldest zoological park to the orangerie, the palm house and the English

and French gardens, the latter by a disciple of Le Nôtre who designed Versailles. Nature reserve, pristine gardens and recreation area all in one, the figures speak for themselves: 25 km of trees along the avenues, 30 km of hedges, 300,000 plants and 20 hectares of lawns mowed up to 21 times in season.

Entry to the gardens is free and locals and visitors alike come to relax, gazing in wonder at the blazing colours of superb flower beds, listening to the cool gurgling of Neptune’s fountain or rambling through dark mysterious woods. There’s a manicured maze, a set of 18th century follies named ‘Roman ruin’, 32 neo-classical sculptures and a triumphal arch, or gloriette, on the hill top with panoramic views over palace and garden and the city beyond. It’s no wonder this is acclaimed as the best preserved Baroque garden in the world.

The Austrian Empire came to an end after the first Word War but with its palace and gardens, Schönbrunn remains for all to enjoy and an enduring magnet for television and film crews, as seen in James Bond ‘The Living Daylight’ or the legendary Sisi trilogy.

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Go On, Grow Your Own!

by Pippa Greenwood

Enjoying a delicious meal which includes some home grown ingredients is a wonderful feeling – it fills you full of just the right sort of pride (and maybe even a little bit of smugness!). That meal might be a dinner party, a family supper or even a quick sandwich grabbed whilst you go about your daily work; it makes no difference, it simply feels good to indulge in a bit of Grow Your Own and then reap the rewards.

If you’re a hardened vegetable grower you may well have been sowing and potting on for a while now, but if you’re a bit behind schedule or if you’ve simply not dared to venture into vegetable production to any extent before, don’t panic – there’s still time to grow just about any crop in your plot this year.

If you want to raise some plants from seed yourself then most could be sown now, but there are a few that are likely to produce a much better yield if given an earlier start. I’d give seeds of crops such as tomatoes, sweet

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peppers, chilli peppers, melons and aubergines a miss now, but buy in a few plants over the next month or so and you’ll be going great guns in no time at all.

Some vegetables can be directly sown now (i.e. just sow the seed into a wellprepared area of garden soil in a suitable spot) in all but the coolest gardens – beetroot, lettuce, beans, peas, carrots, rocket, spinach to name but a few. Other slightly more tender crops such as sweetcorn, squash and courgettes would fare better if given a bit of extra heat when you are germinating the seeds. That’s where an electrically heated propagator comes into its own, and you will also find it really useful if you are trying to make up for lost time as it will speed up germination of many seeds by several days.

The seedlings may then need pricking out and potting on until they are sturdy enough to live in the great outdoors.

With these more tender crops, try to ‘harden off’ the young plants before you put

them into their final positions: having been raised and grown on inside (either in a greenhouse or on a warm, sunny windowsill) they will be a little ‘soft’ and tender, and easily damaged by cold, wind or rain. Hardening off isn’t difficult, just put the trays or pots of young plants outside on warm days once the weather has stabilised, and bring them back under cover at night. Do this for a week or so and then leave them outside, covering them with some fleece at night.

The resulting plants will now have had the chance to acclimatise to ‘real’ conditions and will grow far better, whilst also being much less likely to suffer from weather damage.

If you find seed sowing and the subsequent pricking out and potting on too much when juggling with a job or other commitments, then buying in some small plants is a great plan as it gets you past the high-input bit at the beginning and allows you to just get on with the growing on, maintaining…

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and eating! You will get a good range from seed merchants or garden centres, but if you like the idea a bit of at-your-elbow-advice from me to ensure great results, don’t forget that you can still order garden-ready plants, accompanied by weekly advice and tips emails specific to the vegetables you’ve chosen to grow.

There are more details at www.pippagreenwood.com/ grow-your-own and if you use the code 12419-E7SPS at the checkout, you’ll also get £4.00 discount, whichever pack size you choose.

Garden-ready plants can be planted out as soon as you get them and, provided you follow the instructions, keep them well-watered during drier weather and apply

feed at regular intervals, it won’t be long until you will be harvesting crops such as climbing French and runner beans, tomatoes, sweetcorn, sugar-snap peas, peppers, chillies, onions, melons, butternut squash, beetroot and courgettes.

Most vegetables need a good fertile soil and a sunny or only partly shaded spot if they are to perform well, so choose your growing area with care. If space is short or your garden is limited to a paved back-yard, patio or balcony, there is no need to go without the delights of Grow Your Own – most vegetables will do well in good sized containers (minimum 30cm x 30cm x 30cm) with good-quality compost. If you can manage

even bigger pots, then maintenance will be easier as they will need watering slightly less frequently.

But, whether you plant and sow vegetables in pots, tubs, greenhouses or open ground, the end result will be gorgeous tasting, super-fresh vegetables to be enjoyed on your own or with company.

So go on, get growing!

Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ - fantastic UK grown vegetable plants of your choice plus weekly advice and tips emails from Pippa (don’t forget your offer code 12419-E7SPS for a £4 discount), Nemaslug, biological controls, pop-up crop covers, signed books and lots more besides.

‘Working with nature for a greener future’ Services include:

Garden Maintenance Hedge/Shrub Pruning Garden Clearance Landscape Construction For further enquiries please contact:

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maintenance Trimming, tidying & mowing tidying & mowing maintenance Fencing, decking, gates & sheds timberwork Trimming, decking, gates & sheds timberwork Fencing, paving Patios & paths paving Patios & paths Scaled drawings & planting plans design Scaled drawings & planting plans design For a friendly, reliable service at a competitive rate For a friendly, reliable service at a competitive rate

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Gadgets For The Indoor Gardener You don’t need to get dirty to grow great things

Spring has sprung and it’s gardening season. But not everybody has a garden or access to decent growing space - and even if you do have the space, the recent stormy weather has been enough to keep all but the most determined gardener indoors.

Don’t despair, though: there are plenty of gadgets that enable you to grow great things indoors or when you have limited space for green things.

There are even tools to design gardens that don’t exist.

If you’re also a keen cook, you’ll like the Indoor Allotment (£24.99, currently on preorder at Firebox.com): it’s a miniature herb garden complete with picket fence and storage shed. It includes basil, coriander and oregano along with everything you need to get your herbs growing - and it’s small enough to fit in the corner of a windowsill. If you fancy something a little bit more ambitious, IKEA’s Socker miniature greenhouse is just £12 with an assembled size of 45cm wide, 22cm deep and 35cm high, which is more than enough for all kinds of plants.

You can also keep the roof vents partly open to improve air circulation for plants that don’t like it too hot.

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While you’re in IKEA, it’s worth checking out their self-watering plant pots too. The Sötcitron and PS Fejö pots (from £6 to £16) are designed for those of us who don’t always remember to water our plants, and do a superb job for very little money.

Fancy something a little more high-tech? The Click and Grow (€59.95 from clickandgrow.com) describes itself as a “smart garden” and uses a NASA-inspired combination of hydroponics and electronics to ensure that your plants get the right combination of water, oxygen and nutrients without you doing anything.

It includes a LED lamp for maximum germination, and because it’s LED the running costs are microscopic. The creators suggest growing petunias, tomatoes, chillies, basil or thyme but it should be able to handle anything that isn’t too large.

If you’ve got green fingered children, the Chuppon selfwatering animal planter (£9.99) should delight them: it’s a ceramic animal with a herb basket on its back and a straw that sips from any glass or mug.

There are four animals and four herbs to choose from, although of course you can put your own herbs in instead.

Even the smartphone has made its presence felt in the world of gardening, and there are lots of apps and devices for indoor and outdoor gardening.

One of the cleverest devices is the Parrot Flower Power, a wireless device that sits in your plant pot and monitors the plant’s health, sending alerts to your phone. It’s available for Apple and Android phones, measures sunlight, temperature, fertiliser and moisture, and it currently costs £42. That’s probably a bit steep if you’re growing cress, but if you’ve got something exotic or temperamental it could be a very wise investment indeed.

There’s another type of digital gardening you can do, and that’s to create a virtual one in your computer - something you can do just for fun, or to plan what you’ll do to a real garden space. There are many garden planning apps to choose from, including My Garden (free from www.gardena.com/uk) and Marshalls Garden Visualiser (free from www.marshalls. co.uk). Happy gardening!

Images L to R: Indoor Allotment; Chuppon selfwatering animal planter; Parrot Flower Power; Click and Grow Smart Garden.

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Short Story Alpaca On The Line By Jackie Brewster “Once again we apologise for the delay.”

Godfrey, trapped in a stuffy train carriage cluttered with empty food wrappers, rolled his eyes at the announcement.

His wife, Betty, had gallantly joined the queue for the buffet, so now he was bored and had no one to entertain him. The young man opposite was absorbed in his Spycraft magazine, unconcerned that he was taking up all of Godfrey’s leg room.

Godfrey had already noted from the badge pinned to the man’s shirt that his name was Daniel Goffin and that he’d been attending a first aid training course. He’d also observed from the reserved card in Daniel’s seat that they would only be sharing this table until the next station, which was of little comfort given that the train wasn’t even moving.

“We are currently awaiting a farmer’s assistance to herd a stray alpaca off the line,” the announcement continued.

Daniel looked up from his book.

“What’s an alpaca?” he said to no one in particular. Godfrey smiled to himself.

“Very good question,” Godfrey replied. “It’s interesting, isn’t it, how most people are unaware of real life espionage situations?”

“Are they?” Daniel seemed amazed.

“Very much so,” Godfrey continued. “I spent years in the Secret Service so I can always spot a code word when I hear it”.

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“A code for what?”

Daniel put down his magazine.

“The ‘alpaca’ naturally refers to an agent on this very train who is in possession of top secret data,” he whispered. “’On the line’ means his cover’s been blown.”

“Why would they announce it?”

Daniel asked, dumbfounded.

“That’s the interesting bit,” Godfrey said. He leaned in closer. “Now they need a ‘farmer’.”

Daniel frowned.

“A ‘farmer’, as that periodical you’re reading will no doubt tell you, is a civilian volunteer.”

Godfrey scanned the carriage to see if anyone else was listening. “Their task is to collect the data and deposit it safely.

It’s your classic dead drop.”

“How?” Daniel had also started whispering.

“The volunteer goes from table to table collecting up all the refuse into a special bag. It looks like a normal supermarket carrier bag but it is impregnated with a microscopic homing device.”

“It’s amazing what they can do now,” Daniel said in awe.

“Isn’t it just?” Godfrey agreed.

“Then the bag must be placed in a rubbish bin at the next station.”

Daniel looked staggered.

“Why?” he said finally.

“Because the agent will have placed the data in an empty coffee carton or something like that.” Godfrey tried to contain his exasperation.

“Why are you telling me this?”

Daniel asked suspiciously.

“Because Daniel Goffin,” Godfrey pulled a plastic bag out of his knapsack and slid it across the table, “you’ve been chosen.”

“Why me?”

“I believe they felt your first aid training might come in handy.”

Daniel turned a shade of green.

“Is there a reward?” he asked finally.

“Surely serving your country is reward enough?” Godfrey said.

“Think of it as a kind of jury service.”

Daniel touched the carrier bag gingerly.

“It’s your chance to be a hero,” Godfrey added magnificently.

Daniel’s eyes sparkled.

“I’ll do it.” He stood up decisively, bumping his head on the baggage rack.

“Good man,” Godfrey said, “if anyone asks, this conversation never happened.”

He watched him go just as Betty returned.

“What’s that strange young man doing?” she said, handing him a packet of biscuits. “You’ve not been playing secret agents again have you? You did promise.” The train shunted into motion.

“He’ll be alright,” Godfrey smiled, stretching out his legs.

“I’ve just given him a little project to keep him busy.”

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Motoring Range Rover on Test By James Baggott Finding Nemo could work his fishy magic at keeping the Are We Nearly There Yets at bay until at least Dover.

It’s the dreaded question that anyone even remotely connected to cars fears more than any other: what’s your favourite car?

But finally I might have the answer: the Range Rover. Not the Sport or Evoque but the good old fashioned, full fat Rangie.

A looming family holiday looming involving a 1,500-mile trip gave the perfect excuse to borrow the car, and after two 13-hour shifts behind the wheel I can honestly say there’s nothing else I’d rather have been in.

Here’s why. First, it’s super comfortable. The front seats in our Range Rover were heated and cooled and had more adjustments than a home hi-fi amplifier from the 1980s. The huge armchair like seats with cushioned headrests never dulled a muscle and left us with no aches and pains.

With a five-year-old on board, the £7,300 entertainment pack (yes, you read that right) was a blessing. Two 10.2-inch rear screens and wireless headphones meant

The multimedia system might be showing its age a little but it works well. It takes seconds to hook your phone up for music streaming, the satnav might look a little dated but it got us to France, Switzerland and home without fail and it’s simple to set a DVD running for the rear occupants while listening to Dad FM in the front.

Then there’s the size – I know Range Rovers are massive, but when it comes to getting a ski trip’s worth of luggage inside, it coped admirably.

Despite using up the entire boot space there was ample room inside – enough to curl up for a snooze in the back and enjoy the equally cosseting rear seats when my wife drove.

For its size it’s no slouch. Our test car had the delightful 4.4-litre SDV8. Despite only returning 26mpg, with a top speed of 135mph and a 060mph time of 6.8 seconds, it’s brisk enough for French Autoroutes. It piles on speed in a smooth and linear fashion, quietly and without fuss, whilst adding to the feeling of luxury travel.

However, what really sets the Range Rover apart are the

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little touches. Things like the soft-close doors, the illuminated logos projected onto the floor by the wing mirrors at night, and the front seat armrests that adjust to the perfect height.

I love the fridge in the centre console, the cameras all around the car that make it a doddle to park, and the split tailgate that automatically opens and closes at the touch of a button.

But above all it’s the fact that despite all this luxury and Rolls Royce-rivaling opulence, it’s still so utterly capable off road. As we arrived in Villars, Switzerland, the snow was falling heavily and cars were being abandoned up the mountain as snow chains failed to do their jobs. But not the Range Rover. A flick of the all terrain response button to its Snow & Ice setting and away we went.

So there you have it. The one car I would buy if I had to live it with it for the rest of my life.

Just as long as I could afford the £109,710 for the pleasure…

The Knowledge Model: Range Rover Autobiography Price: £109,710 (with options) Engine: 4.4-litre SDV8 Power: 339bhp / 740Nm 0-60mph: 6.8seconds Top Speed: 135mph CO2: 219g/km Economy: 33.6mpg

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Monkey Music Kingston, Surbiton and Thames Ditton E: kingston.surbiton@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0208 224 3971

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Health

By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk

Sugar: Not So Sweet and Innocent osteoarthritis, depression, respiratory problems, sleep apnoea, infertility problems, breast cancer and bowel cancer.

Recently, evidence of sugar’s evils and a potential sugar tax have dominated the media. The Chief Executive of the NHS has even proposed a 20% NHS ‘sugar tax’ on food in England’s NHS cafes.

So why is sugar nutrition’s new super-villain?

Storing Sugar aS Fat Sugar’s most obvious risks are obesity, which costs the NHS around £6.4bn per year, and tooth decay. What’s less obvious is that when we don’t burn off the sugar we consume our bodies convert it to fat, storing it partly in the liver, which can lead to fatty liver disease, and partly in our fatty tissues. A study of the development of visceral fat - the dangerous, hard-to-shift fat that’s stored around the internal organs - showed that while it increased in all participants, it increased most in people consuming sugar-sweetened drinks on a daily basis.

High sugar intake, hand-in-hand with obesity, can also increase our risk of hypertension (high blood pressure), type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, gout,

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Sugary foods can make our blood sugar levels seesaw too, making us irritable and tired when we come ‘down’.

However, experts are divided about whether a high sugar diet makes us prone to thrush, although diabetics are at higher risk and there’s anecdotal evidence of low sugar diets helping with recurring thrush.

Sugar by any other name... iS Still aS Sweet Your latest grocery purchase may not say it contains ‘sugar’, but glucose, dextrose, maltose, fructose (found in fruit) and lactose (found in cow’s milk) are all different forms of sugar, as is sucrose (our everyday sugar).

Honey, molasses, syrup and fruit juice concentrate are often included in supposedly healthy foods, but they all contain sugars too. Beware.

Hear ‘sugary foods’ and you probably think of fizzy or fruit drinks, sweetened coffees, biscuits, cakes and chocolate.

But check the ingredients of ketchup, pickle, salad cream, barbecue sauce, bottled cooking sauces or shop-bought soup, curry, pizza, savoury foods and low fat ‘healthy’ options - many use large quantities of sugar to improve their taste.

how much iS too much?

Intrinsic sugars (those naturally occurring in milk or whole fruit) aren’t related to adverse health effects. However, free sugars - those added to foods or naturally present in fruit juices, honey and syrup – are, and the World Health Organisation has advised us to reduce intake of free sugars to 10% of our daily calories, and down to 5% for further health benefits.

The UK Government has now recommended this 5% limit.

5% of our calorie intake is equivalent to around 2530g of sugar (around seven teaspoons). Had a can of standard Coke today, or five Jaffa Cakes? You’ve exceeded your daily sugar allowance. The allowance for children aged 4-6 is 19g a day and for 7-10 year olds, 24g. Yet a standard 200ml Capri Sun contains 20g of sugar.

Sugar SwapS and dropS • Swap cereals with added sugar or honey for unsweetened cereals with fruit.

• Swap sugary desserts for fruit, plain yogurts or homemade milk puddings.

• Ensure sweet treats deliver nutrition too - choose malt loaf over doughnuts.

• Exchange fizzy drinks for sparkling water mixed with a no-added-sugar squash.

• Gradually wean yourself off sugar added in hot drinks, cooking and baking.

Drastically reducing your sugar intake is tough, so start small and let your body (and taste buds) acclimatise.

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Planning For The Time When Independence Ends

by Kate McLelland It’s one of those life-changing moments. You’ve just received a phone call telling you that an elderly relative has been admitted to hospital with a fall injury or an illness from which they are unlikely to fully recover.

There are two options available to families facing this crucial moment. Either arrange for your relative to be admitted to a residential care home or make space in your own house so they can live with you.

But is your home actually suitable to shelter and care for a vulnerable older person with medical problems and/or limited mobility? Adapting your house needs careful preparation so your relative can move around safely and easily.

Will the stairs be a problem?

The first thing you’ll need to consider is whether or not your loved one will be able to use the stairs. Last year, Age UK commissioned research into the cost of installing a stair lift and found that the price varied between £4,940 and £5,469 for a straight staircase, with approximately £500 added for a curved stair lift.

Sleeping arrangements If mobility is a problem it’s important that you provide a

bedroom with an en-suite toilet (and preferably a shower, too).

Most elderly people need to visit the bathroom several times in the night and the further they have to walk, the greater the chance they will trip or fall.

Alternatively you could consider providing a commode for nighttime use, with various models costing between £25 and £180.

A reasonably-sized bedroom is essential: at the very least you’ll need space for a single bed, a stable armchair with good back support and a small table, as well as storage for any equipment that might be required. Make sure there are no rugs or other obstacles on the floor that could cause trip hazards. It’s particularly important that the area between the toilet and the bed is kept clear.

Adapting your furniture A seat at normal height may be too low for somebody who has mobility issues, so you might want to consider buying raisers (around £40 for a pack of four) for the items of furniture they will use. As the name suggests, raisers simply fit onto the feet of beds and chairs to add height.

A wing chair with arms – such as a classic Queen Anne fireside chair - is ideal for the

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

lounge. Alternatively you can buy a specialist model, made with anti-bacterial fabric. This chair, available from www. nationalofficefurnituresupplies. co.uk, is waterproof and stain-resistant with adjustable handrails and costs around £250.

If your relative is a wheelchair user you’ll also need to think about widening doorways and installing ramps. Don’t forget that some mobility devices may be available through the NHS, either free or at a reduced cost (although you may have to wait to obtain them).

If all of this sounds daunting, you’ll find there are many agencies and voluntary organisations who can help. Go online to sites such as www. myagingparent.com, get in touch with Age UK (www.ageuk. org or call 0800 169 2081) or speak to your GP or local authority.

Finally, if you sense that your relative is approaching the time when they will need constant support, don’t wait until things reach a crisis point. By putting sensible plans in place now you can ease the transition, saving you both a lot of worry and stress later on.

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Beauty Spring Is In The Air

by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

Spring is a great time to clear out the makeup bag (or overflowing cupboard in my case) and treat yourself to a few new goodies.

How pretty is this new palette from Paul & Joe? Teaming an eye shadow duo with a powder blush, the palette is available in two shades: Papillons de Printemps and Floral Nectar (pictured).

Retailing at £28 each, they’re not cheap, but the colours are easy to apply and you’ll be the envy of the other bathroom mirror hoggers on a night out. If you really want to splash out, Paul & Joe have also released some new lipsticks, in three vibrant spring shades.

Many people find that they need to buy a new foundation for spring/ summer, as their skin loses its winter hibernation paleness. (Or that’s my excuse anyway.) The

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new Aqua Glow Serum Foundation by Stila combines foundation with a treatment serum.

It gives great, natural looking coverage, while hydrating and softening skin. 94% of testers reported dramatically improved skin tone. If you can’t wait to take your makeup off at the end of the day because your face feels dry and uncomfortable, you need to try this foundation. It contains hyaluronic acid and other ingredients that help to keep skin hydrated for up to 12 hours after applying it. Available in 10 shades, the Aqua Glow Serum Foundation retails at £34.50.

If your hair is looking a little ‘meh’, but there’s still weeks to go until your next trip to the salon, try a KC Color Mask. Available in 14 shades, including platinum, golden copper, plum and coffee, these masks revitalise coloured hair. A small amount helps to maintain the hair colour and add brightness, while a larger amount can deepen the colour intensity. Just apply to freshly washed hair, comb through, leave for up to ten minutes and wash out.

They’re particularly useful

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for toning down brassy tones in blonde hair, and giving depth to darker shades. The masks also contain Pro-Vitamin B5 and keratin derivative, to help repair the cuticle.

Prices start from under £5.

Spring demands a lighter, fresher fragrance, and Yardley London has just released the perfect one.

English Daisy is reminiscent of a wildflower meadow – floral, but not too sweet. It’s unashamedly girly, with notes including hyacinth and white rose, warmed with sandalwood and musk. And, at just £19.99 for 50ml, it’s a bit of a bargain. Team it with the English Daisy body lotion, £6.50 and embrace the warmer “The Ultimate Class for Mums and Babies” The Times

weather.

I’m finding that the sun’s reappearance means it’s a lot easier to drag the kids out for a walk (although it’ll be a while before we’re out of our wellies I reckon). Along with wet wipes and plasters, the one thing I always take with me is Pure & Light Organic’s Essential Family on-the-Go Cream. It’s packed with plant-derived vitamins, and helps to treat everything from insect bites and bruises to eczema.

The 18 natural active ingredients include soothing calendula, hydrating shea butter and nourishing avocado.

Mrs Paula Maple (M.Ch.S. D.Pod.M) HPC Registered Chiropodist & Podiatrist

Tel: 020 8390 7777 by appointment

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 G IN K 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

Ace Complementary Health Centre 304 Ewell Road, Surbiton Surrey, KT6 7AQ www.ace-osteopaths.com

10% Discount with this advert until end of May 2016

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

53

And Another Thing...

Where Tom Stops Commuting

by Tom Hughes Follow Tom on Twitter @groomsdaybook

My Dearly Beloved’s face fell as the true horror of my announcement sunk in.

“So what you’re saying is that from now on, you’ll be working from home?”

“Yes. Nigel is cutting costs.

It’s actually great news because they are paying for a broadband upgrade, and I get a desk.”

“You’ve got a desk.”

“And no more commuting - hurrah! I thought I could move into Evan’s old room.”

“Well I’m not getting rid of that divan, it’s never been slept in.”

Monday morning 7am. I leapt into my work trousers and after slurping my coffee was on the drive, keys in hand before I realised. Of course, I don’t have to do this anymore! So, sitting at my new desk an hour early, I took the first conference call of the morning: a very important discussion about our national marketing strategy.

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“Hi Tom, Nigel in Basingstoke here and Marty in Seattle, what’s your take on this? I was just about to launch into my best corporate blather when – MMMMNNNMMNNNNN! “Sorry Tom, there seems to be some interference on the line?”

Apologising, I opened Evan’s bedroom door (sorry, branch office door) and was promptly bashed on the big toe by the Hoover. “Darling - I’m in a meeting!” I hissed.

The Henry fell silent.

“Well this house won’t clean itself - darling. Anyway that’s me done, I’m going out.”

So while Marty droned on about performance indicators, I looked down from the bedroom (branch) window as Sarah, Bags for Life in hand, set off for Tesco and the dreaded Big Shop.

At last some peace! Or so I thought. I was in the middle of composing my umpteenth electronic missive of the day when I heard a scratching at the door. It was Ollie,

demanding to know what I was doing at home this time of the morning. To stop the whining I relented and in two bounds he was over the desk and onto the window sill, where he settled down for a mid morning snooze.

So, with my best friend asleep next to me, I beavered away at my spreadsheets.

The new phone buzzed once more and, as Ollie raised an inquisitive eyebrow, I took my second conference call of the day. I was just about to set out in no uncertain terms why Basingstoke couldn’t escape restructuring when next door’s cat decided to run across the porch roof.

“So, Tom what you are saying is…”

“Grrrrrrr…”

“Oh, sorry Tom, don’t you like Marty’s idea?”

“Woof! Bark! Woof!”

“Tom, is that a dog I can hear?”

I heaved Ollie out onto the landing, nearly strangling myself with my headset in

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the process.

I coughed. “Sorry guys.

New ring tone.”

After ending the call I spotted Sarah returning from the Big Shop. “I thought you were ‘at work’?”

“I can’t just sit up there watching you struggling.

Here, let me.”

“Look I’m perfectly capable of putting away the shopping - no Tom, the bleach doesn’t live in there!

Just go back upstairs and leave me to it.”

As Sarah unpacked everything my stomach reminded me that lunch time was almost upon us.

So, nestled on the sofa next to Sarah with my bag

of Quavers and my ham bloomer, something told me that turning the TV channel over to check on England’s progress at Trent Bridge was not a good idea.

I decided instead to join in with the catch up.

“And who’s she?”

“That’s the mother, she lives in the garage, and that’s the daughter and she’s pregnant to the drug dealer.”

“And which one’s he?”

“The one under the bed.”

“Is he hiding?”

“No, he’s dead.”

“Hasn’t anyone noticed?”

“He’s encased in concrete.”

“I see...”

Finally it was time to return to work. But I shouldn’t have had that second Eccles cake because around three forty five both Olly and I began to flag.

The phone rang, the computer bleeped, my mobile buzzed. Eventually the racket drew Sarah to see what was happening inside Tom Hughes Towers.

“Hello, Tom’s phone? I’m sorry, he can’t come to the phone right now he’s… in a meeting with Oliver.

Of course you can’t hear snoring, that’s…his new ring tone.”

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

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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QUIZ SOLUTIONS CROSSWORD SOLUTION

HIDATO SOLUTION

CODEWORD SOLUTION

WORDWHEEL ANSWER BLASPHEME WORDSEARCH ANSWER This is the worst President ever.

Helen Thomas

CHILDREN’S PAGE There are 11 shiny coins on the page 56

WORD LADDER ANSWER (This is one solution, there may be others)

COOL wool wood word ward WARM

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Hobbies Ten Tips To Bring Your Treasures Back To Life

By Kate McLelland

Many years ago in London’s famous Portobello market, I came across a grimy old box made of wood. At first glance didn’t look like anything special, but on closer inspection I saw that some fine veneer work was visible in places.

“Ten quid. A bit of wire wool and some washing up liquid straight out of the bottle, and that’ll come up lovely.”

It sounded unlikely, but I paid the stallholder and took the box home, where I nervously began to rub the surface with a steel wool pad. As the dirt melted away I uncovered an intricate inlaid marquetry design, and my grimy box eventually emerged as a beautiful antique that I’ve loved ever since.

Although I was successful, I suspect most experts hearing of my method would tear out their hair. Remember these points before starting your own projects: • Some antiques are valued for their patina and certain items – such as old coins – should never be polished.

• Check very old items for cracks that may break during cleaning.

• If in any doubt, do some research or ask an expert.

• Avoid using harsh chemicals

or abrasive cloths.

Here are ten tips for restoring your vintage bargains: • To remove general grime from old prints, gently roll a piece of doughy, fresh bread over the surface.

• To remove old, rusted-in screws, first clean around screw head edges, heat the screw head with a hot air gun, then the turn screw a little TIGHTER, before undoing (use caution with heat if the object has a varnished or painted finish).

• Age marks on porcelain can be removed by soaking overnight in baby bottle sterilizing liquid.

• Use Steradent tablets to get rid of water marks in old glass vases.

• For a bright shine, polish chrome with baby oil and cotton wool.

• To clean a gilded object, use a clean white cotton cloth, cotton balls or Q-tips, and the barest amount of clean, cool water. After you have dampened the cleaning material, remove excess moisture on a dry piece of cloth before you apply it.

• Rub undiluted household bleach into dirty hairline cracks in pottery and rinse off,

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

to reduce the crack’s visibility.

• Use half a lemon and salt to clean brass and copper items.

Apply, rinse off, dry carefully and clean with impregnated wadding, polishing finally with a soft cloth.

• To repair a pottery item, clean the pieces with a mixture of mild dishwashing liquid and warm water and let them dry completely. Apply clear, slowsetting two part epoxy glue and hold the pieces in place with modelling clay so they don’t fall apart whilst drying.

• Remove dust and dirty marks on old leather by dipping an artist’s paintbrush in methylated spirits. Use sparingly, working on a small area at a time.

Whenever you carry out a restoration project, you should decide whether you want to keep the item or sell it on before you get started. If you want to keep it, you can restore it to your personal taste. If you’re selling, it’s wise to do some research on the current market before you start restoration.

Although it may seem strange, some buyers may actually want the rust stains and marks of use that show an item has been handled and loved for many years.

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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COMMUNITY PAGE British Sandwich Week is 8-14th May. Do you have a favourite recipe?

Is it a bap, a bagel, baguette, a wrap or toasted?

Is it veggie, meaty, fishy or what?

Is it open or closed?

Is it luxurious or simple?

If you have a go-to sandwich and want to share the recipe, send it in, together with a photo if possible, to: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

Disclaimer

For all gardeners and allotment holders!

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.

9 Summer bedding plants and other young plants according to season.

9 Traditional and organic fertilizers and soil improvers/conditioners.

9 Lawn and rose treatments, weedkillers, pest controls.

9 Growbags and bagged compost, pots, gloves, trays, canes, netting etc.

Annual membership just £2, senior citizens £1.

Website:www.horticultural.moonfruit.co.uk Email: chesshort@live.co.uk

Our trading hut is conveniently sited at Moor Lane Allotments (just off Moor Lane near The Bonesgate pub) Open every Sunday 10am to 12noon, except December.

In accordance with our "members only" policy, new members are always welcome to join!

Annual Membership just £2.50, senior citizens £1.50

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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 resposibilty 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 date of the 8th.

To advertise any event, or community activity in the magazine, please call: Karen on 020 8274 0096 or email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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27. Plant - sucking insects (5)

Down:

COMMUNITY PAGE

1. Terminate gradually (5,3) 2. A Sultanate in northwestern BorneoSociety (6) Surbiton & District Historical 3. Horologist (10) 4. Slightly open (4) Tues 5.

5th April: Dr Jonathan Oates Engage somebody to enter the army (6) will 6. Represents or performs as if inof a play (6) Bath talk about “The Life & Crimes Acid 8. Come to terms with (7) Murderer, John George Haigh”.

Evening 9. Shortened term for provocation (5) 13. Returning to political office (10) meeting as below.

15. Unusually great in size (7) sunrise andIan beforePorter sunset (8) Tues 16.

3rdAfter May: Mr returns to 17. Strong and sharp (5) speak 18. about “The YoungorDickens” Having little emotion sensibility (6)Evening 20. Add to the very end (6) meeting as below.

22. The highest point; culminate (6) 24. Compass point (4)

Tues 7th June: Mr Roland Wales’ talk is “vampires, Nazis & Spies -the Hollywood Career of RCOctober Sherriff”, Evening meeting as Sudoku below.

Meetings start time: 7.45pm at Surbiton Library Hall, Ewell Road, Surbiton. Visitors welcome, Contribution of £2 appreciated

For more details about meetings and the Society, call The Secretary: 020 8399 4473 Email: lenandmarilyn@virginmedia.com

HOOK ALLOTMENTS AND GARDENS ASSOCIATION Are you interested in gardening?

Did you know there is an association in Hook?

Our Association was founded over 50 years ago and is run36 by volunteers, can provide a E Page 33-40.indd wide range of composts, fertilisers, seeds and other gardening products at not-for-profit prices to our members. We support gardeners and allotment holders.

We currently have full and half plots available to rent. Contact: John on 07807 300 749 Membership is £2.50 a year and new allotment holders have free membership for the first year Our trading facility is situated next to the entrance to the allotment plots, beyond the rugby club pavillion, rear of King Edward’s Recreation Ground, Hook Road, Chessington Open: Sundays 10am - 12 noon Feb - Nov 10am - 11am Nov - Jan

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

Remember, you can pick up a copy of A Berrylands Companion magazine at the following: C.D.Jennings, B&M Budget Store, Surbiton & Tolworth Libraries, Shan’s Pharmacy, Tolworth Recreation Centre, The Lamb, MBE Surbiton, Londis Ewell Road, Collinson Optician, Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club.

Read it whilst you wait at: Aspen Vets, Berrylands Autocare Garage, Cornerhouse Dentist If you would like copies at your business please call me on: 020 8274 0096

Deadlines for submitting new artwork for forthcoming issues of A Berrylands Companion 8th April for May issue 22/01/2010 00:22:03 8th May for June issue June 8th for July/Aug issue Aug 8th for September issue Sept 8th for October issue 8th Oct for November issue 8th Nov for Dec/January issue 8th Jan for February issue 8th Feb for March issue 8th March for April issue For more information call Karen on 020 8274 0096 or send an email to

karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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What’s on in April:-

National Pet Month; Bowel Cancer & IBS Awareness Month;

Until June 30th 2017: Star Wars Exhibition at Madam Tussauds. Tkts: Child £25, Adult £31, Family, 2A + 2 C £108.

Until 9th April, Talking Objects, Sharing Stories: exhibition at Kingston Museum.

20 migration stories from the Borough’s South Asian community. Open: Tuesday, Friday and Saturday 10am - 5pm, Thursday 10am - 7pm. Admission Free.

30th March: Sassy Stirrers Children’s Cooking Club Easter Holiday Classes: Cookie & Cake

Bake Off, 10.30-3.00pm. Prizes for all types of baking, £40 per place. For

information contact: Susan on 07789 792676, EM: info@sassystirrers.com

To book on line: http://sassystirrers.com/summer-holiday-workshops/ 31st: Sassy Stirrers Junior Dinner Party, learn to cook a 3 course meal,10.30-3pm, £40

per place. Contact as above.

Events in April:

1st April Fools’ Day

Walk to Work Day 1st: Sassy Stirrers Snack Attack 10.30-3pm, £40 per place. Contact as above.

2nd: World Autism Awareness Day

International Childrens’ Book Day, Hans Christian Anderson Birthday.

2-8th: World Autism Awareness Week 7th: World Health Day 8th: Fircroft Trust Quiz Night including light supper, 7 for 7.30pm start. The Fircroft Trust,

96 Ditton Road, KT6 6RH. Tickets £8, raffle and refreshments available. Teams of 6 max,

Contact 0208 399 1772. ann@thefircrofttrust.org.

10-16th: World Homeopathy Week 11th: Surbiton Arts Group, Botanical demo and workshop by Marcia Hughes.8 - 10pm 11-17th: National Gardening Week.

15th: Annual Hook Beer Fest 2016, evening session 6-10pm, Verona Drive, Surbiton,

Scout Hall. For info and e-tickets: www.hookbeerfest.org.uk 16th: Surbiton Great British Cake Bake Off Challenge at Surbiton Farmers’ Market 9-1pm 17th: Annual Hook Beer Fest 2016, afternoon session 12-4pm and evening session

6-10pm, As above .

17th: ZSL London Zoo Stampede, 10k Charity Run through London Zoo and Regent’s Park.

18-24th: Orchid Male Cancer Awareness Week; Parkinson Awareness Week 21st: Queen Elizabeth II 90th birthday, 41 gun salute at Green Park by King’s Troop Royal

Horse Artillery and a 62 gun salute at The Tower of London, by Horse Artillery 23rd: St George’s Day: Celebrate in Trafalgar Square with a Shakespear theme.

English Language Day; World Book Night

Mum2mum Market, Baby & Children’s Nearly New Sale at Hawker Centre, Kingston,

KT2 5BH. 2-4pm. Contact: janine@mum2mummarket.co.uk 24th: London Marathon 25th: World Malaria Day 25-1st: Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week 30th-15th May: Surbiton Food Festival Launch www.surbitonfoodfestival.org 30-8th: Grand Design Live at ExCel, London. Adults £12, Child free.

www.granddesignlive.com Events in May:

National Share a Story Month; Action on Stroke Month; National Walking Month 1st: Surbiton Sardine Festival in St Andrew’s Square 2nd: Bank Holiday 2-8th: Deaf Awareness Week 3rd: World Asthma Day 3-1oth: International Donkey Week 7-8th: Surbiton Village Fete and Dry Hop Beer event.

7-14th: National Doughnut Week 8-14th: British Sandwich Week; Red Cross Week.

13th: Museums at Night, Bank of England open 5.30-9pm. www.bankofengland.co.uk 14th: Surbiton Food Festival Community Sports Day and Dog Show 30th: Spring Bank Holiday

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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 Pensioners’ Forum: Meets 2nd Monday each month at Reform Church, Eden Street 2pm. New members welcome. Talks, outings and tea and coffee. For more info: Pam Wilson Secretary, 020 8241 9913, www.kingstonpensionersforum@hotmail.co.uk 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. For more information visit: 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:Wednesdays. Learn Regency dancing at St Mark’s Church Hall, Surbiton, 8pm - 10.30pm. Cost £5 per eve. See advert. Contact Libby Curzon, 020 8391 1215. Email: curzone@hotmail.com Surbiton Club for the Blind and Visually Impaired: Meets alternate Tues 2-4pm at Surbiton Hill Methodist Church, Ewell Road. Social club with entertainment and tea. Transport available if necessary. For information: 0744 364 3716 . Volunteer drivers very welcome.

Oasis daytime group for over 60s: at Emmanuel Church, Grand Avenue, Tolworth. Plenty of opportunity to chat, play games, do puzzles. Meetings, Wednesday 16th March, includes a 5 minute Bible-based talk. Meetings on Wednesdays fortnightly, at 2.30pm. Tel: 020 8390 6631.

Open Door: Alternate Thursdays, 2.30 - 4.15pm, 14th April. 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.

Encore Singing Group: Mondays, 10am - 12.15pm in Berrylands. For info: gillyvor@hotmail.com Scottish Country Dancing: On Thursdays 7.30pm - 10.30pm at St Mark’s Church Hall. Tuition for half an hour from 7.30. Membership £5 a year, Members £3/evening, non-members £4. Join our friendly, informal club for good fun and an easy way to excercise. Check website: www. surbitoncaledonian.co.uk or call: 01932 784 866 Talking of Trains in Surbiton: Programme of talks at Surbiton Library Hall, each Wednesday evening from 23rd Sept, throughout winter months. First meeting free, fee for complete year is £50. Details on www.talkingoftrains.co.uk For further information contact: David Blackmore, 020 8391 1116.Em: dandp@blueyonder.co.uk Hook Singers: Fridays 10:30 to 12 at Chessington Methodist Church. New members welcome, no auditions required. Variety of popular songs. Contact Chris Kemp 0208 241 9777 website www. hooksingers.btck.co.uk If your club or society is not listed on the Local Events, send in the details!!

Why not send in your events for Summer for the What’s On page ?

Clubs, Schools, Churches, & Charity events should be submitted to karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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 22 23 24 21 20

Car Maintenance Alan Sursham Berrylands Autocare Community Motors K&P Tyres Walsh Vehicle Management

17 14 15 14

Food & Drink C.D.Jennings CF & MC Stears Greengrocer Langley’s Restaurant Prithi

55

Solicitors Lewis-Dick

43 38 25 5 25 43 39 25 45 29 35 37 35 29 63 41 35 31 37 29

Home & Garden All Your Garden Needs Berrylands Building Company Berrylands Property Maintenance Carpets4U Chris Mould Plumber Crystal Landscapes Dream Doors (Kingston Kitchens) George Curren Electrical Goodroofs James Anthony KB Design Kevin Robinson Decorators Leverett Electricals Oven Cleaners Pro-Fit Windows Systems R.J.Tree Services Shaun Overy Heating & Plumbing Time4U Will Lord William Stallion Electricals

13 2 13 23 53

Care & Health Anna Dennis Acupuncture Corner House Dental Practice Chessington Hypnotherapy Clinic Fit As A Fiddle!

Paula Maple Chiropodist

53 49 7 19 19 64 7

Rest & Relaxation Anna Coe King George Field Bowls Club Kingston Borough Bands’ Tattoo Mrs Bennet’s Ballroom Classes Rebel Waltz Cycle Solutions Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club Virtual Music Studio

Want To Advertise Your Business?

Children & Education Ballet in Surbiton Monkey Music

A Berrylands Companion

14 49

9 9

Veterinary Aspen Veterinary Surgery Cats Protection League

58/59 48 60/61 22 26 3 42 18 32 10

Articles & Editorials Community Pages Kids Page What’s On & Local Events Pages Crossword Book Review Useful Telephone Numbers Gardening by Pippa Greenwood Recipe Baking Exclusive: Madeline Bell Talking

Just because there is already an advert for a similar one, please do not think we will not take your advert!

There are so many businesses, trades and services that are not represented in

From as little as £42.50 a month your advert can feature here for a year!

An email with your artwork will ensure it is featured.

So What is Stopping You? Call Now!

Contact Karen: tel: 020 8274 0096 email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Magazine printed by Warwick Printing, Warwickshire

To advertise call Karen: 020 8274 0096

email: karen@berrylands-companion.co.uk

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Be inspired By testh matcet crick

open golf

t surbhie on tropt hy

the great british summer of sport edon Wimbl

Join now (no joining fee offer) and take part in an action packed summer of activities. Visit www.surbiton.org for details

For a Free one day pass text ‘Surbiton’ followed by your name and address to 63333

Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club, Berrylands, Surbiton, Surrey, KT5 8JT T: 020 8399 1594 | E: info@surbiton.org | www.surbiton.org

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