Life in Brackley Feb 2016

BRACKLEY IN BUSINESS

Life in BRACKLEY

inbusinessmags.co.uk

February 2016 FREE

new look

Fully qualified 25 years experience No job too small

Fully insured Local tradesman All building work undertaken

• Brickwork • Stonework • Garage Conversions • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Extensions • Patios • Landscaping • Fencing • Roofing etc For your free no obligation quotation call: 01280 423847 or 07701073720 www.homefixbms.webeden.co.uk e: homefixbuilders@googlemail.com

Brackley Groundworks Specialists in Block Paving & Patios • Driveways • Footings & Drainage • Tarmac Drives • Bradstone Approved Pavers • The Guild of Master Craftsmen • 5 year installation guarantee •Digger Hire from 1 1/2 tonne to 5 tonne

Artificial Grass Supplied & Laid

Call John & Jason for your FREE Quotation

07860 558410 daytime 01280 703599 evenings 2

FEBRUARY ISSUE 2016

Welcome...

....well, a new year means lots of changes for most people as well as here at Best Area Magazines Ltd as we have decided to design a new image for the new year starting with a new name change, image update and lots more inside to read.

I hope you enjoy it and if you would like to add some editorial please feel free to email me at lifeinbrackley@gmail.com Until next month……

Mandy Johnson x

Mandy Johnson Editor

The aim of the monthly Life in BRACKLEY Magazine is to support businesses in order that the local community can flourish.

Website: www.inbusinessmags.co.uk

Email: inbusinessmags@gmail.com EVENTS EMAIL LIFEINBRACKLEY@GMAIL.COM

Office: 0844 6933228 Home: 01905 381011

Join us from £33 per advert

£20.00 See Page 25 & 28

Mobile: 07899 757473 ADVERTISING Mandy Johnson FEATURES EDITOR Kate Martin NEXT ISSUE COPY DATE

17th February 2016 © 2016. All artwork and copy appearing in this publication is copyright and may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

All information published is correct according to those who supplied it and no responsibility is taken if it is not. Care is taken to ensure all advertisements are truthful and no liability is accepted for errors or emissions. The right to refuse advertisements is reserved. The use of this publication for canvassing, direct marketing or any other activity apart from sourcing local goods and services is strictly prohibited.

The above title is a division of The Best Area Magazines Ltd The Wood Cottage, Broughton Hackett Worcs, WR7 4BB.

3

Family focus

Toddler tantrums are part of a normal phase, but if they persist they can make life tricky, particularly when you’re juggling work and the needs of the rest of your family.

Tantrums frequently arise in the 18 -30 months age group, when a toddler has thoughts or ideas beyond their level of communication – they are frustrated because they feel their needs aren’t being met, or they can’t let you know how they feel in any other way.

Everyone caring for the child must use the same methods – inconsistency is upsetting, so all carers need to set the same boundaries and handle unwanted behaviour the same way.

• Before a child feels the need to scream, shout and throw themselves around to get your attention, establish a connection so that they can let

4

you know what they want to say.

• Get down to their level – kneel on the floor, look them in the eye, speak to them face to face.

• Give them your full attention, and make it clear that they’re asking calmly, which is good, and you will listen – they will be proud to be treated like a ‘big person’, which is rewarding their attempt to communicate well.

• Provide words that they may wish to use, adding gestures to indicate meaning, to help build their vocabulary – ‘Did you want the red car, or the blue one? Red? Here you go’

Praising or giving attention to good behaviour, and ignoring unwanted behaviour is one of the fastest ways of seeing results, in this age group – it’s

straightforward for little ones to understand - try it, and see for yourself!

• Don’t pay attention to a tantrum, unless the child is likely to hurt themselves or others – then just say nothing and remove them to a safe area, and leave them to calm down whilst you supervise from a distance.

• Don’t negotiate whilst they’re screaming, or even bother telling them off – they’re not listening.

• Wait until they’ve calmed down, and they come to find you for reassurance that the world is still OK – and then distract with another activity.

• Do let them join in mundane and everyday tasks – you are their hero, so if what you’re doing is safe for a toddler to ‘help’ with, let them join in – it’s fun for you both, and boosts their self-esteem

5

turn will encourage more people to come and learn how to play an instrument. If you are interested in joining the Band please drop us an email at brackleyband@gmail.com and we’ll get in touch. More information about both groups can be found on our website www.brackleyband.org.uk.”

Competition BRACKLEY AND DISTRICT BAND CELEBRATES DONATION FROM THE GALAXY HOT CHOCOLATE FUND

Brackley and District Band is celebrating after receiving a £300 donation from the GALAXY Hot Chocolate Fund.

Brackley and District Band has been running since the 1970’s and offers everyone of any age or musical ability the opportunity to play an instrument and join a fun, inclusive and sociable group.

The organisation is made up of a

6

senior band and a junior band called the ‘Majors and Minors’, both of whom perform at private and community events including carols outside the Town Hall at Christmas, which is on Sunday 20 December this year.

Nick Wilson, the Lead Organiser, says: “This donation from the GALAXY Hot Chocolate Fund means that we can now invest in more instruments and music which in

GALAXY Hot Chocolate is looking to help small, local community groups and charities across the UK and Ireland by donating cash awards to support warm-hearted people and projects.

Michelle Frost, spokeswoman for GALAXY Hot Chocolate said: “We know that across the UK and Ireland smaller charities and community groups are struggling to make ends meet despite the efforts of a huge number of warm-hearted volunteers.

“The GALAXY Hot Chocolate Fund aims to give them a helping hand and hopefully inspire more people to get involved.”

Open for entries until February 28 2016, the Fund will distribute five £300 awards to deserving recipients every week. Applications to the fund can be made on the GALAXY Hot Chocolate website www.galaxyhotchocol ate.com.

7

Brackley Vehicle Services

SPRING

01280 706999 info@bvsmot.co.uk THIS VOUCHER ENTITLES YOU TO

(Normal Price £54.85)

www.bvsmot.co.uk 8

We have merged with

Unit 4, Buckingham Court, Brackley, Northamptonshire, NN13 7EU 9

• • • • • • • •

Motoring

Well Established Garage In Brackley

M.O.T.s Mechanical Servicing Free Estimates for Bodywork Tyres, Exhausts and Batteries Crash Repairs Re-Sprays and Colour Changes

Some of us have a car as a method of getting from A to B, others of us have a little more affinity with our motors than perhaps we should – I’m talking rust bucket love affair; the bottomless money pit on wheels, yes – a much loved old banger. Or Classic Car, as some would say, but buy them a pint or six if you’ve the time to listen, and you’ll hear more affection for that scrapheap on wheels (‘back in the garage to see where that oil’s coming from’) than for their partner, who finds bushes and bearings doing backstroke in the washing up bowl, and roasting trays in the garage ‘catching drips’.

Yet, despite this blatant stereotyping, I must admit it – a few of us car nuts are girls! I have fuel filters, bulbs and mystery gaskets cluttering up my cupboards, love nothing more than poring over my Haynes manual, in hope of a swift diagnosis and speedy recovery and yet – you’ve guessed it – I’m walking today, because the old wreck just won’t start!

Smart Repairs

Alloy Wheel Refurbs

CALL DEE ON 01280 702227

71 High Street, Brackley, Northants (BEHIND KEEP BIKING)

www.towngarage-brackley.co.uk

Friendly Female Driving Instructor, Brackley Based.

Competitive Rates, Block Booking Discounts.

Hourly Lessons and Intensive Courses Available Pass Plus Tuition for Discounted Insurance Telephone Number: 01280 705311 Mobile Number: 0791 274 6215

38 Tanners Drive, Blakelands, Milton Keynes, MK14 5BP

Tel: 01908 218875

Unit 12, Beachampton Business Park, Nash Road, Beachampton, Milton Keynes, MK19 6EA 10

www.EandEservices.co.uk

Advance Bookings

11

How to be a prosperous landlord Whether you are a new landlord, or an experienced one, here are some quick tips on helping you to be a prosperous landlord:

your tenant • oKnow Undertake referencing checks on the tenant .

o Obtain certified documents where originals are not available o Obtain proof of residency o Contact previous landlords

purchasing a Rental Warranty to •coverConsider rental payments and court costs.

• Put a written Tenancy Agreement in place.

Protect any deposit received and serve •prescribed information within 30 days of receipt. the latest “How to Rent” guide at the •startServe of the tenancy.

Provide an energy performance certificate and •current gas safety certificate for the property.

12

smoke •andInstall carbon

monoxide alarms in the relevant areas of the property.

Where •appropriate obtain the necessary “licence to let”.

Check your mortgage agreement and notify the •mortgage company if necessary.

If your tenant causes problems act proactively.

If you would like further information on the recent changes introduced by the Deregulation Act 2015 or advice on recovering possession of your property, Spratt Endicott’s specialist Landlord and Tenant Solicitor, Kyle Wyness can assist you.

Contact Kyle at kwyness@se-law.co.uk or call him on 01295 204135.

07454 191807 paul@ecocleancare.co.uk

ECO-Friendly Carpet Cleaning in your home or business that wont cost the earth

13

COMPETITIVE

RATES

Winterhills, Silverstone, Towcester, Northants NN12 8UG

www.grahamchurchillplant.co.uk

Fully Insured

Kevin Bolleurs

Locally based family run business Removals from property or business premises - packing service available Fully insured to take the worry away Cleaning service provided to give you a helping hand Upholstery and carpet cleans available Safe, experienced and reliable

www.Ezygo.co.uk

LEE’S PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Everything you need for your home & office improvements PAINTING, DECORATING, KITCHENS, BATHROOMS, CARPENTRY, TILING, WOODEN FLOORING, & MUCH MORE...

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE

Tel: 01280 701504

14

Mob: 07956 039268

Rachael Wilson Architects

Rachael Wilson Architects Rachael Wilson BA (Hons); Dip arch (Architecture); Dip EED (Energy efficient design); ARB; RIBA. consists of a team of competent, committed and experienced employees.

In addition to this they can call on the skills of Jan Molyneux who is a planning consultant, together with Helen Pittams and Peter Gibbons who are internationally experienced architectural technicians to Rachael Wilson Chartered Architect make sure we can give a comprehensive and competitive service to our Rachael Wilson and Trevor Spencer clients. worked alongside each other over 20 They are years ago in Africa and recently met partnered up again to bring design flare to with AVDC building projects within Buckingham Building and its surrounding areas.

Control and Both of them have around 30 years have links experience, within the commercial with and domestic sector. They both have Helen Pittams experienced complementary skills of sustainable and competent local design, contract management and technical builders and structural expertise, but most notably for their ability to produce scheme layouts, detailed drawings and engineers which provides as complete designs and project management for new service for peace of residential developments of houses and flats of mind for your up to 30 dwellings and a veterinary pratice in proposed Bedfordshire. development.

Trevor Spencer Senior Architectural Technologist

RACHAEL WILSON ARCHITECTURE

15

Combat the Common Cold!

Health, Beauty & Fashion

Keeping germs at bay is one of my main concerns in wintry weather, when colds and flu are doing the rounds and every other person seems to have a cough, cold or have just recovered from one!

First tip – stay well!

Keeping your body in tip-top shape, enabling your immune system to work more effectively, makes it less likely that you’ll need to take time off, if you do succumb to a cold.

16

• Eat well – a varied diet which includes plenty of fresh or frozen fruit and vegetables • Sleep well and de-stress – lack of sleep and our highpressure lifestyles reduce the body’s ability to fend off nasties

• Take exercise – a brisk walk each day lifts your mood, provides a cardiovascular workout and gets you out in the fresh air • Try to keep your home wellventilated and at a comfortable temperature – this reduces the likelihood of damp and mould, which can cause respiratory problems in sensitive people • Wash your hands – it’s ok to avoid people coughing and sneezing, but what about everything they have touched? Hand gels and good old soap and water can help prevent spreading germs.

07921 956535

17

Health, Beauty & Fashion

So, you’ve woken with the classic cold symptoms - runny nose, headache, sore throat, cough, generally feeling a bit yuck. What now?

If you’re not sure it’s just a cold, or have other health issues, call 111 or your GP’s surgery for advice.

18

Here are my shopping list ideas for getting through a winter cold • Pain relief – Paracetamol works well to reduce cold symptoms – always read the label, and don’t take with cold remedies which also contain it • Honey – helps soothe a sore throat, great with lemon as a hot drink

•

Vitamin C – helps boost the immune system, can be found in fruit and vegetables and supplements • Tissues – the softest kind, unless you like the chappednose Rudolph look

With any luck, you’ll be back to your old self in no time!

Evening appointments available. To book an appointment or ask any questions telephone Located in Culworth 6 miles North East of Banbury OX17 2BB

M: 07751 895622

B3 Fitness Unit 3, Boundary Rd, Buckingham Rd Ind Est, Brackley. NN13 7ES Tel: 01280 841110 Web: www.b3fitness.co.uk Email info@b3fitness.co.uk 19

Declutter, recycle, reuse!

If you’re feeling the stirrings of desire to Spring clean, declutter, shift stuff – join the club! After such a wet and dreary Winter, I’m definitely in the mood to lighten things a little in my home, and the first step is to get rid of everything I don’t really need any more, that’s taking up space.

I don’t like the idea of just binning anything that could come in useful to others, so here are my ideas to give your junk a new lease of life, helping someone else!

•

Old clothes, belts, shoes – saleable ones to the charity shop, worn out garments in pretty fabrics can be re-used for patchwork, making cushion covers and customising jeans

•

Old fashioned pieces of furniture – advertise it on social media or selling sites as a ‘shabby chic project’ – very popular!

•

Tins, packets, bottles & jars of food – anything unopened and indate can be donated to your local food bank

20

• Children’s books, toys, baby equipment – ask at your local mother & baby group or preschool – they may welcome donated items, or know where they’ll be well received.

• Sleeping bags, blankets,

bedding and duvets – a local homeless shelter or pet rescue may be grateful for these

• Household goods – pots, pans

and plates – local charities helping disaster victims make up ‘home basics packs’, for those without anything, who are moving into new accommodation, so a few mugs or saucepans will be very useful to them

•

Unwanted gifts – set aside those that can be re-gifted, and donate the rest to a charity shop or a good cause that’s having a bring & buy sale or tombola stall at a fayre.

•

Anything that’s not so

new any more – can be recycled by type; metal objects can be weighed in at a local scrap yard, fabrics can be recycled at specialist centres, glass may be accepted in bottle banks

Whatever space you clear, make it work for you – create a little peace and harmony in your home, and feel good that you’ve helped others, into the bargain!

Experts at getting rid of waste

Blackpitts Barn, Welsh Lane, Helmdon, Nr Brackley, Northamptonshire,NN13 5QY

• SKIP HIRE • CONTAINER HIRE • WASTE MANAGEMENT • RECYCLING • WASTE DISPOSAL

T: 01280 851081

ALL TYPES OF FLAT ROOFING TILING, SLATING, RE-POINTING, REPAIRS AND RE-ROOFS FASCIAS AND GUTTERS REPAIRED OR REPLACED CHIMNEYS RE-POINTED A L L W O R K C A R R I E S I N S U R A N C E WA R R A N T Y

F R E E E S T I M AT E S

Tel: 01280 730831 MOBILE: 07956 114001

Credit Cards Accepted Established 20 Years www.PBROOFING.co.uk

21

NEW SCHOOL OFFERS CLEAR ROUTES TO FUTURE CAREERS A new type of school opening in North Oxfordshire in 2016 is set to prepare students for careers in local growth industries.

Bicester Technology Studio offers students in Years 10 to 13 core GCSEs and A-levels alongside specialist qualifications in engineering and business.

The curriculum has been designed to reflect local employment priorities and will be delivered in partnership with big name employers including A2Dominon, Brita, Chiltern Railways, RED Engineering, Zeta Specialist Lighting, Bioregional and Willmott Dixon.

The school is part of a growing network of Studio Schools now open across the country, combining practical projects with coaching and work experience from industry partners.

Principal Designate Richard Brown said: “Bicester Technology Studio will develop students’ practical, academic and problemsolving skills through real-world projects and exceptional links with leading local employers.

“Students will gain excellent transferable skills to take into employment and higher education, 22

as well as getting a head start into the area’s growth industries.

“Our vision is to train tomorrow’s business leaders and technological innovators. Our specialisms in engineering and business will offer students a clear line of sight into employment in two of the UK’s most dynamic sectors.

“These young people will have the skills, confidence and know-how required to shape the future of Bicester and beyond.”

In its first year, Bicester Technology Studio will take just 40 Year 10 students and 70 Year 12 students. It will eventually grow to cater for up to 310 students. The school is sponsored by Activate Learning, the education group behind City of Oxford College, Reading College and Banbury and Bicester College. The group’s schools division includes The Bicester School, UTC Oxfordshire and UTC Reading – the country’s only UTC to be rated outstanding

by Ofsted.

Bicester Technology Studio is now recruiting. To find out more about the school and make an application visit www.bicestertechstudio.org.uk

Bicester Technology Studio -10 key facts

Launching September 2016 •from new, purpose-built facilities

• Offering 110 places for boys and girls in Year 10 and Year 12 in Bicester

from September 2016, eventually growing to 310 students aged 14 to 19 Offering core GCSEs and A-levels alongside specialisms in engineering and business A curriculum focused on practical learning and problem solving, developed in partnership with leading local employers Focus on work experience and coaching No fees and no entrance tests for Year 10 A regional catchment area spanning approximately 15 miles Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11) curriculum - core GCSEs and options including additional GCSEs and BTEC qualifications Key Stage 5 (Years 12 and 13) options - A-levels, BTEC qualifications, specialist learning and a strong emphasis on leadership and employability skills Clear progression for all students into higher education, employment and apprenticeships

• • • • • • • •

23

?

Have you

started

a new

business

...then why not use us Life in Brackley magazine. As well as advertising we now offer leaflet design, print & delivery packages.

Our rates wont break the bank...

T:

0844 693 3228

inbusinessmags@gmail.com

24

www.centraleisure.co.uk

Motorhome & Caravan Service Centre

Brackley

MOTORHOME HOLIDAY HIRE Buckingham

SERVICING ACCESSORIES

TYRES

All Insurance & warranty undertaken

All Motorhome & Caravan Accessories supplied and fitted to the highest of quality

FOR ALL TYPES OF VEHICLES AVAILABLE

@centraleisure

Unit 2 Greatworth Hall Greatworth Banbury Oxon OX17 2DH

central.leisure@hotmail.co.uk

T el: 01295 760800 25

Please remember – if you’re worried about any animal, or seeing new behaviour that may well suggest a pet is poorly, first call your vet to get an expert verdict and check that all’s well.

Pets Corner New, for you in 2016 – our interactive Pets page, where you can find the solutions to those animal antics that drive us all dotty!

Each month, we’ll bring you animal anecdotes, pictures of your pets and also focus on a Pet of the Month or a reader’s dilemma, with helpful tips and advice from those in the know, so if your pet is driving you potty, or you fancy taking on a new animal but aren’t sure where to start, email us at lifeinbrackley@gmail.com and keep a look-out for your five minutes of fame!

This month, we’re looking at a popular first pet, the Guinea Pig. 26

Squeaky, cheerful little furries, Guinea Pigs like to live in a comfy bed of straw or shredded paper, in a sturdy hutch somewhere warm, dry and well-ventilated.

They are best kept in same-sex pairs from young and can live for 4 or 5 years, thrive on attention and are small enough – about 900g - for young children to handle with support.

A run, to get exercise and fresh grass, is useful in the summer, but they must be able to hide from cats or other predators who could otherwise hurt or scare them.

They need Vitamin C every day, so specially tailored food

along with fresh fruit and vegetables is a must, along with sweet-smelling hay to nibble and a bunny bottle of fresh water.

Special chews and gnawing blocks are available from your pet shop, as are little hiding places and tunnels for them to explore.

They can catch your germs – if you have an infection, you can pass it to your piggies, so good hygiene is essential – and need to be kept free of parasites – ask your vet.

They love to ‘talk’ to you, with little chattery noises, squeaks and squeals to let you know how they are feeling.

BRACKLEY & BUCKINGHAM DOG TRAINING CLUB

Finmere Village Hall.

Thursday Evening Classes

Kennel Club Listed & Approved Good Citizen Dog Scheme Puppy, Bronze, Silver & Gold Levels All Breeds, All Ages & Standards

Tel: 01280 701794

One to One Training at your Home also available

Misty Units Replaced

• PVCu Windows & Doors

• Safety/Toughened Glass

• Laminated Glass • Mirrors

• Table tops

• Leaded Lights

LOCAL FRIENDLY SERVICE

Email: info@brackleyglass.com Website: www.brackleyglass.com

Tel/Fax: 01280 703277 Mobile: 07793 206253

WOODFLOORS M J Baldwin

Carpentry and Joinery

Competitive quotes

All work guaranteed

Highest quality wood supplied and fitted to exacting standards Extensive range of solid hardwood, engineered hardwood and laminate flooring to suit your individual requirements.

FREE HOME VISIT – ENQUIRIES WELCOME

Call Mathew Baldwin 7 days a week on 01295 750533 or 07968 151493 mjbaldwin70@aol.com

27

28

29

07454 191807 paul@ecocleancare.co.uk

ECO-Friendly Carpet Cleaning in your home or business that wont cost the earth

30

Answers page 44

31

32

All Building Work Undertaken

Insurance Work Extensions Groundworks Conservatories Landscaping Roofing Kitchen Fitting Gas Boilers,

General Servicing & Plumbing

Bathrooms & Ensuites etc... also specialists in GARAGE CONVERSIONS

T: 01280 700692 or Mobile: 07771863495

Take a look at my website..

www.bespokeinteriorskw.co.uk

It’s Time To Upgrade Your Home A quality company established for over 20 years, Bespoke Interiors has earned its well deserved reputation for the production of a first class service.

Products ranging from Interior Carpentry, Stairs, Doors, Wardrobes Storage Solutions and Kitchens to Exterior Windows and Doors.

All work can be designed to meet your needs, budget and time schedules.

Email: info@winwoodroofing.com

Tel: 01296 733833 Mob: 07855 851004 33

PLUMBING & HEATING Over 30 years Experience

FULLY QUALIFIED PLUMBERS &

GAS ENGINEERS

New Boilers / Power Flushing Full Heating Installation / Boiler Servicing Landlord Certificates / General Plumbing Bathrooms / Licensed to install Megaflo & Unvented Cyclinders

T: 01280 841035 Mobile: 07831 898705 Leaks & Repairs Gas Safe Registration No.35528

www.samooreservices.co.uk

Local Brackley builder with 25 years experience All types of building work undertaken Excellent references available

“Our reputation is your guarantee” For your free quotation

Tel: 01280 702785 or 07780 610700

34

E RUMFOR V E ST 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE D For Quality Work from a Fully Qualified

PROFESSIONAL PAINTER & DECORATOR

SERVICE

All aspects of interior & exterior work undertaken

Call us NOW for the latest SKY offers

FREE ESTIMATES & ADVICE

Telephone Middleton Cheney

01295 - 710551

Mobile: 07973 850368 35

T. WILLIAMS

PLUMBING & HEATING All plumbing work undertaken 24 hr local emergency call out

306382

Unvented Heating & Hot water specialist • No job too small or big • Very competitive

Phone Tom 07932 004794

Valentine’s Riddle

My first is in Mower, but not in Lawn; My second’s in Moonlight, but never in Dawn.

My third and fourth feature in both Horse and in Riders, My fifth is the plural, a real decider.

Sixth, seventh and eighth REAlly easy to see, Ninth letter to find is in Her but not She; Tenth and eleventh are Easily Done, When you solve this fun riddle, your Valentine’s won!

(See answer on page 44)

PAINTING & For your

Plastering and Tiling Needs No Job too Small Free No Obligation Quote Prompt, Reliable and Friendly Service Please contact Dave Mob: 07753 958 567 Home: 01280 840483

DECORATING Interior, Exterior, Paper Hanging, Artexing, etc, 20 Years Experience Tel: Andy Browning – 01280 841011 or Mobile: 07778 128 898 FREE ESTIMATES – All work Guaranteed Brackley and surrounding areas

M J Moore Electrical Contractor Ltd Local electrician with over 45 years experience

● ● ● ●

● ●

Domestic and industrial General electrical work Fuse board upgrading

Inspection, testing & portable

appliance testing (PAT)

17th Edition Wiring Regulations 2391 Inspection Testing & Certification

Tel: 01280 704365 Mob: 07729 521259

Email: mjmoore-electrical@tiscali.co.uk

36

National Trust Approved Service Provider

Paul Bedell Services Ltd

‘7’ Year Warranty on All Worcester Boiler Installs

Full Heating Installation - Boiler Replacements Solar Hot Water Systems - Hot Water Cylinders Boiler Servicing

C a l l To d a y F o r Yo u r N o

Obligation Quotation

maxheat@sky.com ALL TYPES OF

● CEnTral HEaTing

17th Edition Qualified Fuse box upgrades • Re-wires Inspection and test of entire wiring • General repairs.

• External power for sheds and water features • Change single sockets to doubles • Additional sockets • Change light fittings • Additional lighting (internal and external) • Connection of Electric showers.

• Telephone extensions

Free Quotations

● POWEr FlUSHing ● DOMESTiC HOT WaTEr SYSTEMS ● BaTHrOOMS / SUiTES / raDiaTOrS

TaPS / SinKS / SHOWErS ETC...

rEPlaCED, rEPairED, MOVED & inSTallED NO CALL OUT CHARGE

For advice & Free Quotations Call Paul

Reg. No. 549599

Contact Julian on:

07743 948 118 (mobile) 01295 750 749 (evening) 37

GARDENING THIS MONTH...

What a ridiculously mild and wet winter so far!

Record breaking average temperatures and tee shirts before Christmas, very soggy ground for a very long time!

The perma-mush has held up ground work in all sorts of areas, so the first time the soil dries, there will be intense activity everywhere.

Looking Good

Of great value now are shrubs with bright colour. Winter jasmine (see picture top right) has cheerful yellow flowers that will be knocked back by frosts but should now produce more blooms. Prune after flowering, particularly damaged growth.

Winter flowering Viburnum, such as Viburnum bodnantense 38

‘Dawn’ (see main picture above), are a heartlifting sight in full bloom, with the bonus of being sweetly fragrant.

A lovely tree that flowers late autumn and winter is the Winter cherry, Prunus subhirtella Autumnalis. It’s pretty little pale pink flowers (pictures to the right) are a picture on a dull day, particularly if viewed from close, so plant near the house if you can. It’s a compact tree, not the largest growing of cherries.

FREEPHONE: 0800 6951944 MOBILE: 07788 513780

FULLY QUALIFIED AND INSURED TREE CARE AND GROUNDS MAINTENANCE Leylandii & Conifer problems solved Hedges reduced and trimmed Pruning, thinning and felling Large or small jobs welcome

10% DISCOUNT FOR OAP’S

C. W. Landscape & Trees Est. 1988

Treework Hedge Cutting Decking Patios Block Paving Fencing Dry Stone Walling

Astro Turf Contact: Mr C. Waters 0779 9062239 or 01295 713553 For a FREE Quotation.

cw.landscapes@aol.com

Woodlands Logs & Kindling DELIVERED LOCALLY 0844 4141174 39

Jobs in the Garden

Now is a great time to plant bare-rooted fruit trees and fruit bushes. As long as conditions allow, get them in the ground so that the roots can make some growth before leaves and shoots emerge in the spring.

Cane fruits (raspberries, blackberries and their hybrids) should be planted into prepared ground and prune to about 25cm.

Don’t forget they will need the support of wires or canes.

Currents need space to grow. Plant black, red and white currents five feet apart, into well worked and fertilised soil.

40

Gooseberries need space as well.

Choose one of the modern sweet varieties for dessert or culinary use, such as ‘Whinhams Industry’, (pictured at bottom of page) with dark red luscious fruits.

Clematis

Late February is a good time to prune late-flowering clematis, including the Clematis viticella varieties and other hybrids such as ‘Jackmanii’, that flower late summer (known as ‘group 3’). Cut all growth back to 25-40cm. Give the plant a good feed for a fine display this summer.

Hope you can enjoy your gardens this month, and spring is just around the corner!

Written by Chris Swallow Swallows Nursery

Use Leaflets?

Let us distribute them for you r

Fine range of great plants

Please contact Kate or Mandy 0844 693 3228 inbusinessmags@gmail.com

Vincent Landscapes of Buckingham est1990

www.vincent-landscapes.co.uk

Specialists in Landscape Design and Construction, from an idea to your Dream alfresco living space, where you work rest and play.

•Patios •Walling ( brick and natural stone) •Bespoke timber buildings •Fencing •Garden timber constructions For a free no obligation quote call or email Darren on

07918 193315

01280 817944

vincent-landscapes@hotmail.co.uk its not a job, its our passion!

ESTATE & GARDEN SERVICES Ltd.

Quality Fencing & Landscaping

-

Fencing Gates Decking Pergola’s Paving & Paths Turfing & Mowing Tree Work

References of previous work available Full public liability insurance

Contact:- David Ladlow for your free quotation

Phone/Fax 01280 700947 Mobile 07763 898 010 e-mail:- estateandgarden@aol.com

41

y Every Monda e) Tim (During Term Voice Choir Brackley Male Brackley at ls sa ar he re h, Waynflete Baptist Churc till 9pm.

30 7. at , Close ly a love of No auditions on ired qu re ng singi or visit 01280 704149 voicechoir. ale vwww.brackleym org.uk

Every Monday "Open Doors" at Greatworth to Methodist Church, 10 am 12 noon. Drop in for refreshments, activities, games, carpet bowls, newspapers and friendly chat. For info. tel. 01295 711082

Every Monday

SCUBA diving with Stowe Sub Aqua Club, see the web for more information.

StoweSubAqua.co.uk •••••••

day Every Tues time during term hearse in the

Every Monday Time) staring 1st Feb(Term pm 5-6 s sse Cla s Kid Relax @ The Millennium gs Memorial Hall in Kin Sutton. Ages 5-9, Contact: ail.c PattieEveritt@googlem om, 07920106217, relaxk www.facebook.com/ idssouthnorthants

lub r Wheel C The Inne on ts e e m y of Brackle the ay M 3rd ond th. n o of the m lcome. e w are All ladies l on om Caro Details fr 5 1 3 0 01295 76

42

lee Choir re Brackley Jubi John & St James, St of el Chap , Brackley on llege School Magdalen Co een tw be the High St 9pm.

7.30pm and r (SATB). d adult choi We are a mixe bers welcome.

New mem n Lesniak Contact Kare 92.

01280 7066

Every Tuesday Every Tuesday from 7 p.m.

Banbury & District Model Railway Club Information on www.BDMRC.com or phone Secretary 01295-252931

What’ day Every Tues tepbystep S l oo ch S Dance Dancing tin La d Ballroom an lk Mia owski with Andrzej : R D CHIL EN Beginners pm 50 6.

6pm ADULTS: ners 50pm Begin 7.

7.pm ers ov pr Im m 8.pm - 9p len Hall, Magda Wayneflete ckley ra B l, oo ch College S

y Every Weds/Thursda (term time only)

Sing and Sign for Baby Signing classes aking. babies 6 weeks to spe ll, Ha Wed mornings at WI Thurs ey, ckl Bra ad, Ro nor Ma ge Villa y nle Eve at gs mornin ial Hall, Booking is essent contact Helen 07906 055591

Every Wednesday Evening & Sunday Afternoon Mixed Club Sessions Brackley Tennis Club, ckey.

Westminster Road, Bra John Leftwich 01280 705717 and Nigel Evans 01280 701740.

s On Every Wedne Mind in Brackle sday ym 10 – 3 at Brack eet from ley Health Centre, Halse Support for an Road. yone over 18 who experienc es anxiety, stress or depression.

Please contac t Jo Webb on 07889 181220 or just call in

Every Wed nesday (term Brackley W time only) ind Ensembl e is a lively group of who meet on wind players Wednesday evenings in cent We are look ral Brackley. players Gra ing for new de No auditions 5 standard.

For informatrequired. www.bwem ion visit usic.co.uk

Rotary Club of Brackle y meets every Thursday evening.

Further information from www.brackleyrotary .or info@brackleyrotary.o g.uk rg. uk

3rd Saturday of the month

20th February Charity Event in Town Hall Every Saturday BRACKLEY DIPPERS 12 noon until 1.30p.m. We are a club for adults with physical problems that meets each Saturday to use Brackley Pool.

For information please ring Janine on 01295 712408"

St. Peter's Church

Coffee Morning Fri, 05 Feb 2016 10:00 St. Peter's Church host a coffee morning on the first Friday of each month alongside Brackley Country Market in the Town Hall.

Venue: Brackley Town Hall, Lower Hall

SNC B Tue, 09 rackley Job Clu b BRACK Feb 2016 11: L 3 Operated EY JOB CLU 0 Bby South N o rthants Distr Alternate ict Council Tuesday 's 11.30am until 1.30 from at Bra pm For furth ckley Town Hall er infrma tion, plea se visit www.sou thnortha nts.gov.u k/j obclub

FREE Lis ting just em ail:

lifeinbra ckley@g mail.com your eve nt and w e will list it for yo u.

Brackley Youth Theatre Group Fri, 05 Feb 2016 19:30 Contact Sam Munday-Webb for more details of this exciting, vibrant group on 07899 992772.

Brackley Town Hall - Upper Hall. Contact: info@artsacademytheatre.com

Brackley Po st Office & St ores Mo

n - Fri 7a m - 7pm, Sa t 8a m 6pm, Sun 8.30 am - 1.30 pm 01280 84 0550 •Newsagen ts • Stationer s • Gifts • Cards • Bu reau de change • P hoto booth s • Off Licen ce 43

What’s On

Members on a day out outside Bampton Church which is the location used for Downton Abbey

Brackley’s Business Networking Group 7-9pm Every 1st Tuesday of the month www.BrackleyMeansBusiness. co.uk Building Business Connections

TOWCESTER RACECOURSE in February 2016

Thursday 4th February 2016 01:10 pm - 04:25 pm FREE ADMISSION Wednesday 17th February 2016 01:20 pm - 04:45 pm FREE ADMISSION

isting FREE Lem ail: just

m gmail.co ackley@ lifeinbr we ent and your ev u. o y r fo it will list

Answer to Riddle on page 36 ROSES ARE RED

Answer to Trivia on page 31 1. Yes 2. Downtown 3. Papa 4. A Lion 5. Sixteen 6. A Horse 7.

Elephant, Leopard, Lion, Rhinoceros, Buffalo 8. No 9.Winston Churchill 10. Earth 44

Inner Wheel Organisation.

The Association of Inner Wheel Clubs in Great Britain and Ireland is one of the largest Women's Voluntary Service Organisations in the world with members in 103 countries.

Brackley Club meets once a month in the evening and we have a meal together.

Sometimes their is a speaker and we have outings to places of interest. We promote true friendship while having fun and raising funds for good causes.

Details from Carol on 01295 760315

After the exhilarating FA Cup run of Autumn, Brackley Town has found itself mired at the wrong end of the National League North table. Experience shows that escaping from here as the months draw on from New Year becomes increasingly difficult. Having Photographer John Maund survived last season by the skin of their teeth on a dramatic last day, nobody who lived through the nerves and tension of and Suarez, Saints are seeking that free-scoring that will want to go through it again. player. While Brackley’s Steve Diggin had 13 to his Manager Kevin Wilkin has brought in several loan name as of Christmas finding a strike partner for players and they have made a difference. In goal, Diggin with goals in his boots or a midfielder who young Sam Hornby from Burton Albion has been can score has proved impossible so far. ever-present and in outstanding form and at right Aside from bottom-placed AFC Telford United, back Aidan Hawtin from Oxford United likewise.

Saints have scored the fewst goals of any other side The difference between winning and drawing or in the division. Solving this is Wilkin’s goal. even losing can come down to that rare star quality For the forthcoming fixtures and club news visit the of goal-scoring. But like just about every team Brackley Town FC website aside from Barcelona, who have Messi, Neymar www.brackleytownfc.com

BRACKLEY TOWN FOOTBALL CLUB WWW.BRACKLEYTOWNFC.COM

01280 704077

50% off room hire for bookings in 2016 confirmed by End of February.

FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE FOR

FRE E

(F RID AY NIGHT ONLY)

FOR CHARITY EVENTS 45

Local Handy Numbers

Magdalen College School 01280 846 300 Newbottle & Charlton Pre-School 01295 812909 NHS Direct 0845 46 47 Northampton General Hospital 01604 634700 Northants Fire Service 01604 797000 Police 03000 111 222 Post Office 01280 841676 Puddleducks Day Nursery 01869 811222 Reg. of Births, Deaths & Marriages 01327 350774 Snvb 01280 841250 Southfield Primary School 01280 709792 Springfield Surgery 01280 703431 / 01280 704122 St James Pre-school Playgroup 07976909005 Stepping Stones Pre-school 01280 706553 Sure Start 01280 841674 Syresham Playgroup 01280 850269 The House At Pooh Corner Ltd 01280 704422 Tiddlywinks Nursery School 01280 705244 Washington House Surgery 01280 702436 Waynflete Infant School 01280 702 270 Winchester House School 01280 702 483 Winchester House School Pre-prep 01280 703070

Beachborough School 01280 700 071 Boots the Chemist 01280 702213 Bracken Leas Primary School 01280 707050 Brackley C Of E Junior School 01280 707 060 Brackley Health Centre 01280 703460 Brackley Library 0300 126 1000 option 5 Brackley Leisure Centre 01280 701787 Brackley Swimming Pool 01280 704906 Brackley Town Council 01280 702441 Car Share 01280 841099 Connexions South Northants 0800 731319 Croughton All Saints Cofe Primary 01869 810727 Croughton Pre-school 01869 811968 Farthinghoe Primary School 01295 710406 Helmdons Acorns Pre-School 01295 768327 Helmdon Primary School 01295 768126 Horton A & E 01295 275500 Horton Treatment Centre 01295 755000 Job Centre 0845 6060234 John Radcliffe Hospital 01865 741166 Lakefield Nursery 01280 701587 Lark Rise Pharmacy 01280 700222 Little Fishes Pre-school 01280 705295 Little Oaks Pre-school 01280 840201

sp

t bib for £20.00

SEARCH THROUGH THE BOOKLET AND SPOT BIB who is cleverly hidden in one of our adverts.

Complete the form below and send back to the address underneath.

OR email to inbusinessmags@gmail.com ...quoting BIB Comp

Congratulations

J HEYDON, Brackley who has won £20 for spotting BIB. Which was on the blinds and shutters Advert on page 24

Name Address

Telephone No. Email Advert which BIB appeared in Send back to

Best Area Magazines Ltd, BIB Quiz, The Wood Cottage, Broughton Hackett, Worcestershire WR7 4BB Winner will be drawn on the 10th of each month and published in the next edition.

46

to

47