COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
opendoors residential letting & property management
Telephone: 01280 821040 Email: lettings@open-doors.co.uk www.open-doors.co.uk 23 Castle Street, Buckingham MK18 1BP
Gold Standard
Best Letting Agent MK18 Our customers are precious. Please call us on
01280 821040
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
Welcome Happy 1st Birthday to us!
Welcome to the first anniversary edition of Community Contact magazine! Yes that’s right! We have been publishing our local bi-monthly magazine for a whole year now! Over the last year we have worked with some wonderful businesses, and met some wonderful people. We would like to say a BIG thank you to all of you, our readers, for taking the time to read and enjoy our magazine. We have had lots of positive feedback and how you all like to read our features and enter our competitions! We have also increased our delivery areas to over 7,500 homes reaching from Grendon Underwood to Oving, Winslow to Stewkley and all the villages in between! This issue looks at the history of Pancake Day and why we celebrate it, where to go on Valentines Day, what to buy your mum for Mother’s Day and our regular Twyford Pantry full of delicious recipes. This issue is also packed full of exciting competitions where you could WIN a family of four ticket to watch the MK Dons, WIN a signed book and you have a chance to WIN £25 of Gardening vouchers!
Congratulations to the Winners from our Dec-Jan Issue! MK Dons Tickets v Reading Nikki Holmes-Bridges, Oving Dan Carter - The Autobiography Jonathan Mortimer - Winslow Buckingham Garden Centre Voucher worth £25 each Sally Dolz - Buckingham Vikkie Ridley - Padbury We really want to involve the local community and bring the villages together, so if you have any information you would like us to share through our social media channels or events within our magazine please do get in touch. Best wishes, Neil and Laura
CONTENTS 4-5
Valentine Gift Ideas
8
Romantic Things To Do
10
Spring Table Arrangement
15
Running Aches & Pains
20-21
Where to go on Mothers day
22
Events Calendar
24-25
What’s Hot Right Now
28-29
The Twyford Pantry
32-33
In the garden with Chris Day Buckingham Garden Centre
33
Win a £25 Garden Centre Voucher
34
Secret Messages Interiors
38-39
Be Positive and Give Up, Giving Up with SML Diet
40
Pasha
40-41
The Hidden Quarter Buckingham
44
Kids Corner
45
Adult Puzzles
47
Win tickets to MK Dons v Brighton on March 19th
50
The St. Tropez Lonely Hearts Book - Joan Collins
51
Win a signed Joan Collins Book
52
The history of Pancake Day
57
Useful Contacts
58
Advertiser Directory
Deadline Date for the Apr-May Issue is Friday 4th March 2016 To advertise call 07882 194830 or visit www.communitycontact.co.uk
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
Valentines Gift Ideas Are you trying to find that perfect gift for your girl.... or has your man got no idea what to get you and needs some subtle ideas.. Take a look at some of our suggestions...
Lady Million Eau de Parfum - 50ml Paco Rabanne John Lewis - £54 Glitter print scarves Beautifully Different, Winslow - £15
Kate Spade Gramercy Grand BiMetal Ladies Watch Beaverbrooks - £225
Hampsted Leather Shoulder Bag Joules £99.95
Benefit How To Look The Best At Everything complexion kit Medium Debenhams £25.50
Lottie Necklace Stella and Dot www.stelladot.co.uk/ sites/jackiesmith £40.00
Neom Complete Bliss Standard Candle, 185g John Lewis £30
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Dune Black Barcella High Heeled Stilettos Dune £130
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
Harrods Green Man, London Bear in a Bag Harrods £16.95
Cheese Lovers Hamper by Hawkshead Relish Company Not On The High Street £36.50
Dream a little Dream by Giovanna Fletcher Waterstones Exclusive £7.99
Origins Ginger Pleasures House of Fraser £30.15
Nike Zoom Fit Agility 2 JD Sports £70 Rustic 3 Drawer Chest with Lid Secret Messages Interiors Buckingham - £345
Pamper Collection Hotel Chocolat £50 Aurora Gold Stud Pack (also available in silver) Stella and Dot www.stelladot. co.uk/sites/ jackiesmith £25.00
Tiffany Atlas Sunglasses Sunglasses Hut £240
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
web: www.mobilecoldstore.co.uk Tel: 07919 280536
email: ma�.tu�@hotmail.com
Mobile Cold Stores available for hire - Temperature controlled +7 degree C to -20 degree C -Huge Shelving space (equivalent to 4.5 full size snooker tables) - Based on the Oxon/Bucks border Ideal for weddings/parties, beer festivals, family fun days, corporate events, village/school fetes Or as emergency breakdown cover
Images © Colefax and Fowler
Competitive daily rates starting from £120/day
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
Romantic Things To Do on Valentine’s Day... For lots of women, Valentine’s Day is an important date in the calendar, and it will be here before we know it! It doesn’t have to cost a lot, or be an extravagant gesture, but you can make it a memorable one by making her feel special this February 14th. Here are some great ideas that will sure to please this Valentine’s Day.
Recreate your first date Think back to your first date and how special that was. Make a reservation (today!) and reminisce about how you both felt on your first date.
Go for an American date Take a look at what films are on at the cinema, but make sure you pre-book some tickets! Why not book into a diner or pizza restaurant and really make this feel like American style date.
Plan a weekend away If you wanted to stretch out Valentine’s Day to last the weekend, you could try and find a last minute deal and get away for the night in a nice hotel. Some times some time away is exactly what you need.
Cook a romantic candle-lit meal at home Cook your favourite meal for your partner, put your favourite music on, pour your favourite wine and enjoy an evening in the comfort of your own home.
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Some ideas cost nothing... Go for a long romantic walk Put your wellies on, wrap up warm, get out in the fresh air and enjoy a walk in the country together. Dedicate a day to your partner... Why not dedicate a whole day to your partner? Sometimes the best Valentine’s Day gift is spending a whole day uninterrupted from the world. Turn your phones off and enjoy some time, just the two of you. Create a cheque book full of promises! You could include; “I promise to tell you that I love you everyday.” Just use your imagination!
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The Crown at Granborough is a beautifully refurbished pub and restaurant with three separate dining areas: the Oak Room, the Crown Room and, weather permitting, the Garden Restaurant, each of which can be hired for private events. Featured here is our Chocolate Pecan Pie with Homemade Ice Cream and Chocolate Sauce, a favourite from our current Winter Menu, which features our “Crown Jewels”, offering an exceptional fine dining experience and our “Crown Classics”, offering delicious homemade pub grub. On Sundays we serve our sensational Roast and we’re closed on Mondays. For more information on our latest news, seasonal menus, special offers and events please go to our website at www.thecrowngranborough.co.uk
We’re between Aylesbury and Buckingham, a mile south of Winslow. For reservations please call us on 01296 670216 or e-‐mail us at info@thecrowngranborough.co.uk. For more information visit our website at www.thecrowngranborough.co.uk To advertise call 07882 194830 or visit www.communitycontact.co.uk
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
Spring Table Arrangement
by Jessica Rose
Spring flowers are such a joy and after a dull winter they are a refreshing reminder of nature’s beauty. So add an injection of colour to your table and bring a little of the outside inside this Easter with a simple Spring table arrangement. What you will need to make your Spring arrangement: • • • •
A pot, without holes in the bottom A block of florists foam Florist pot tape A selection of flowers and foliage
For example I have used: Lilac, Viburnum Opulus, Hellebores, Spray Roses, Clematis, Silver Birch twigs and Eucalyptus foliage. Cut the block of florist foam to the right size for your pot. It needs to sit a few centimetres higher than the rim of your pot. Soak the foam in water and tape it securely into the pot.
Starting with your foliage, roughly cover the oasis. You can keep it as wild or as neat as you want it to be. Don’t worry if you can still see a lot of the foam at this stage, the flowers will cover this up.
Start adding your flowers one variety at a time. Keep it neat or loose for your chosen style. I like mine a bit wild and natural for these flower types.
Place your pot on a table or windowsill to be admired. At Spring time your local florist will be bursting with colour, scent and lots of gorgeous flowers that Spring brings with it. You could use scented Hyacinth and Lilac or classic Tulips for a fresh and vibrant arrangement.
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
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Does running give you aches and pains?? Running may seem the most natural thing in the world, but for many who try, it certainly does not come naturally, nor even easily. At Stockwood Osteopathic & Sports Injury Clinic we often see running injuries as training gets going and the distances people embark on get longer and longer. Small adaptations in technique can become big problems as greater distance exacerbate compensations. The awkward reality is that some people simply shouldn’t be running at all if they want to avoid ongoing injury. Among the rest of us, running styles vary so much that it is fair to say that individual running style will be unique – after all, we each differ slightly in our body position, our lower limb muscle recruitment and our foot placement when striking the ground. Like any sporting activity, some people make running appear easy, while others have to work very hard at it. Having an assessment at Stockwood Osteopathic & Sports Injury Clinic will help to identify problem areas of foot pronation, muscle imbalance, pelvic muscle weakness and some technique problems. The reward for those who do not find running easy at first is that they will really appreciate advances in their technique, as it removes effort, soreness and risk of injury. For those who are already running treatment at Stockwood Osteopaths can help prevent injury build up to become a problem. For an initial consultation and treatment call 01280 390 760 and ask to book an appointment with the Adam Balderstone - The Osteopath, or e-mail info@stockwoodosteopaths.co.uk “Ask to book an appointment with the Osteopath Adam Balderstone when you call, as the line is shared with Bourton Mill Gym Reception.”
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
REAL BROADBAND IS HERE, NOW! Village Networks wireless broadband covers the Vale of Aylesbury, bringing speeds of 10Mb/s or more to places where ordinary broadband just won’t go. It’s a simple, affordable service, brought to you by a local company, with friendly support from real people.
Since 2003, hundreds and hundreds of homes, businesses and communities have counted on Village Networks to keep them connected. You can, too! Find out more at info@villagenetworks.co.uk or by calling us, today. You could be connected sooner than you think!
VILLAGENETWORKS
0845 6860869
HIGH-SPEED RURAL BROADBAND, LOCAL SUPPORT
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
Where to go on Mother’s Day? On Sunday March 6th we will be celebrating Mother’s Day. It’s the one-day where we can really show our mums exactly what they mean to us. Whether it’s giving her a bunch of tulips and a box of chocolates, or afternoon tea at the Randolph – whatever you do she will really appreciate it. Let’s take a look where you could take your mum this Mother’s Day…
Afternoon Tea at the Randolph? The drawing room at the Randolph is the perfect setting for afternoon tea and is the perfect amount of English style and charm. £17.50 for a basic cream tea £29.50 Full Afternoon tea £36.50 Celebration Afternoon including champagne!
A visit to Stowe Landscape Gardens? Start at the New Inn visitor centre outside the gardens. Treat mum to a delicious slice of cake and a cup of tea in the café before you explore a world of beautiful gardens and 18th Century buildings that Stowe Landscape Gardens has to offer. Your mum will love it! £10 per adult |£5 Child
A spa day at Whittlebury Hall? The Day Spa offers the ultimate in pampering with treatments from the houses of Elemis, ESPA, Jessica and Clarins. A team of specialist therapists are dedicated to your every need. It’s just what she needs! £109 per person
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
The View from the Shard for Two Why not treat mum to a day out in London? Take her to London’s highest and best view at the top of The Shard, on floors 68, 69 and 72. At almost twice the height of any other viewing platform in the capital, it offers visitors unparalleled 360-degree views for up to 40 miles. There is even a cocktail bar on floor 52! £59.90
Annie at The Waterside Theatre Annie, the world’s favourite family musical, starring Birds of a Feather star Lesley Joseph as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan! Live at The Waterside theatre in Aylesbury in March. Tickets available now from £15 to £45.
Treat your mum at Body Matters! Treat your mum to a manicure at Body Matters! Gift vouchers are available or simply call up and book your mum in. Call Anita 01280 822877 or email bookings@bodymattersbeauty.co.uk
To advertise call 07882 194830 or visit www.communitycontact.co.uk
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE February 4th - 6th - Winslow Players present The Pantomime, Beauty & the Beast - Winslow Public Hall. Tickets £6 from Divine Diva or call 07745 223365.
EVENTS
Saturday February 27th - 4th Annual Food Fair 10am – 3pm Organised by Buckingham Town Council. The food fair Saturday February 6th and 28th - Evenley takes place in the Community Centre. Wood Garden Snowdrop Days, Evenley. There will be gourmet burgers, cakes, beer, handmade chocolates and more. Sunday February 7th - Winslow Farmers Market Sunday February 28th - Winslow 10k Run Starts and ends at Furze Down School, Tuesday February 9th - Pancake Day 10:30am. Visit www.winslowlions.org.uk. Saturday February 13th - Valentines Meal March 3rd – World Book Day at Waddesdon Manor March 6th - Winslow Farmers Market Saturday February 13th - Pond Dipping: Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust Sunday March 6th - Mothers Day What’s hiding beneath the surface of the new ponds at Meadow Farm at this March 15th – Adidas Silverstone Half time of year? Find out by joining us for Marathon @ Silverstone Race Circuit one of these beginner sessions. Families booking children in different age groups March 25th - Good Friday may stay on site for the morning. March 27th - Easter Day March 28th - Easter Monday Sunday February 14th - Valentines Day February 15th–22nd - Family Cookery School, Waddesdon Manor Tuesday February 16th - Pancake Race To be held on the green outside St Peter & St Paul Church. Organised by Buckingham Town Council. All competitors are required to wear a headscarf and apron and bring their own frying pan. There will be four age groups 5 & under, 6-11 yrs, 12-16yrs and adult open class. Friday February 19th - 10:30 – 12:00 Bird Feast! Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust. Find out what birds make their home at Meadow Farm. Discover what owls have made a feast of. Make feeders for birds in your garden. Can count towards a ‘Hedgehog award’. For children aged 7+, accompanied by an adult.
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Markets Winslow Farmers Market First Sunday of Every Month Winslow General Market Every Wednesday Aylesbury Farmers Market Last Tuesday of Every Month Aylesbury Vintage and Craft Bazaar Every Tuesday Buckingham Flea Market Every Tuesday and Saturday Buckingham Street Market Every Tuesday and Saturday
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
What’s Hot Right Now... Atlantic Faux Leather Mini Skirt French Connection £65 Enamel Cat’s Eye Sunglasses M&S | £18.00
Leena Button Front Shirt Dress Whistles | £95
Light Brown Ribbed Roll Neck Top River Island | £18
Sonia Mini Shoulder Bag French Connection £75
Katy Fedora Hat Accessorize £29 - Sale Price £20 Oxbury - Black Square Toe Leather Ankle Boot Dune | £129.00 Puritan Mini Dress Topshop | £49
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Khaki Belted Trench Coat New Look | £29
Palm Slingback Espadrille Wedges Office | £60
FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
Grey Tweed Waterfall Coat Next | £75
Lace dress H&M | £19.99
Black Molly Reform Flare Jeggings River Island | £42
Mayan Coin Pendant Necklace Accessorize | £12.00
To advertise call 07882 194830 or visit www.communitycontact.co.uk
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
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Fi rst B
%
Off
ea ut yT re atm
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Beauty Osteopathy Chiropody Call now 01296 730260
info@claydonwellness.co.uk www.claydonwellness.co.uk
£1000
SAVING Plus Free Tooth Whitening & Receive a
Voucher To Use In Our Wellness Spa
SMILE CONFIDENTLY WITH INVISALIGN • Beautiful Straight Teeth Comfortable, removable, nearly invisible.
01296 730 260
We are a leading practice for providing Invisalign 10 Chaloners Hill, Steeple Claydon, Buckingham, MK18 2PE
www.claydondental.co.uk
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The Twyford Pantry Welcome to The Twyford Pantry – for all you food lovers out there, whether it be for ideas for up-coming key dates, to test your foodie skills, seeking answers to important food related questions or anything else to tease the taste buds! The next couple of months see some important dates in the culinary calendar with Valentine’s Day (Feb 14th), Pancake Day (Feb 9th), Mother’s Day (March 6th) and even Easter (March 27th!!) upon us.
Nothing says I Love You for Valentine’s Day more than a home-made present to eat together so how about making your loved one your own Chocolate Dipping Set and save pounds on the pocket if not on the waistline!
sweet treats – Marshmallows, small Biscuits, Coconut Macaroons, pieces of Dried Fruit, Pink Wafers, Pretzel Sticks (try them!), Fudge, Cake Squares, or Fresh Fruit (if making up the same day as giving).
Valentine Lovers Chocolate Dipping Set
Wrap as you wish with a label giving heating instructions: Reheat chocolate gently either in a microwave, low oven or back in a bowl over boiling water until runny and smooth – do not over heat. Dip and enjoy! Make ahead! Chocolate pot can be made 3 days in advance or frozen 1 month ahead and defrosted overnight before wrapping up.
Ingredients 100g broken good quality Chocolate 50ml Double Cream Plus Various Treats Method Melt 100g broken good quality Chocolate with 50 ml Double Cream in a heatproof bowl over a pan of boiling water (without touching the water). Feel free to add flavouring at this stage if you wish – 2 tsp alcohol, strong coffee, flavoured syrup (for coffee), sprinkle chilli powder, 1 tsp vanilla paste, 5 drops peppermint essence, whatever you choose. Stir well until fully melted and pour into a heatproof container and chill to set. You could always make two pots of contrasting chocolates. Put the chocolate pot in a small cellophane bag and tie with a ribbon. Present this in a pretty box, attractive serving dish or small tray with skewers surrounded by your choice of
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Guilt-Free Imitation Ferrero Rocher Truffles
Makes approx. 16 (estimated at nearly 2 Slimming World syns each or 3 Weight Watcher Pro Points) Crush 3 Weetabix and mix with 5 level tbsp Nutella Chocolate Spread Dust your hands with some of a sachet of Options Hot Chocolate Powder and roll mixture into 16 balls. Roll the balls in the remaining Hot Chocolate Powder – you can also use desiccated coconut. For a real Ferrero Rocher-like treat roll each ball around a whole hazelnut, but this will increase the diet
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values. Leave to firm up in the fridge for at least an hour then put into sweet cases in a pretty box or cellophane bag and decorate with ribbon and a sprig of small fresh flowers.
Easter Lamb with Jamie Oliver
150g asparagus, trimmed to 6cm lengths Method Preheat the oven to 220°C/425°F/gas 7. Score the lamb all over and season. Using a pestle and mortar, or in a food processor, pound or blend the mint leaves with the garlic and seasoning until smooth. Slowly add the olive oil to your mixture then brush all over the lamb. Roast in the oven for 1.5 hours, brushing with the seasoned oil regularly until the lamb is cooked. While the meat is resting, remove the fat from the roasting tin. Add the stock to the tin and make a light, tasty broth by boiling and dissolving all the goodness at the bottom.
Ingredients 1 quality leg of lamb, about 2kg sea salt Cook the potatoes in a large pan of boiling, freshly ground black pepper salted water for 5 minutes. Add the fennel 1 large bunch fresh mint, leaves picked and carrots and cook for a further 5 minutes. 1 clove garlic, peeled Then add the rest of the vegetables and 125ml olive oil simmer for another 5 minutes. 250ml organic chicken stock 600g new potatoes, sliced thickly Carve your lamb then serve the vegetables 100g baby fennel, trimmed and cut in half in a shallow bowl with the lamb on top and a lengthways little broth and mint oil drizzled over. 225g baby carrots, tops trimmed 100g baby leeks, trimmed Read more at 200g courgettes, sliced lengthways www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/ 250g fine or yellow beans, trimmed
• • • •
Tips From The Jar
Some random hints and tips to ease your lives in the kitchen. Feel free to share yours with us for the next issue Use a teaspoon to scrape fresh ginger – it’s much easier than peeling with a knife and wastes less too! Freeze left over sauces and reheat to use or add to fresh sauce that needs bulking up Spray measuring spoons/cups with oil before measuring honey or treacle – less mess and saves time (use this idea for the bowl when
• •
•
making rice krispie marshmallow squares too!) Lay a wooden spoon over a boiling pan to prevent it boiling over Freeze left over herbs in olive oil in an ice cube tray to prevent freezer burn and it means they can be used straight into sauces/ pasta without unnecessary water Lay fresh lemon slices on the grill tray to put your fish on top – saving it from sticking whilst giving it extra flavour
FOR MORE EXCITING RECIPES GO TO OUR WEBSITE WWW.COMMUNITYCONTACT.CO.UK To advertise call 07882 194830 or visit www.communitycontact.co.uk
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
SEASONAL MENU DAILY SPECIALS SUNDAY ROAST BURGER NIGHT EACH MONDAY STEAK NIGHT EACH THURSDAY PUB OPEN
MON - THU FRI & SAT SUN
4PM - 11PM 12PM - 11PM 12PM - 6PM
KITCHEN OPEN
MON WED THU FRI & SAT SUN
30
6PM - 9PM 12PM - 2PM 6PM - 9PM 12PM - 4PM
The Sow & Pigs "the home of swine dining"
POUNDON OX27 9BA | 01869 277728
www.sowandpigspoundon.co.uk
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
expert eyebrow treatment
We offer regrowth and maintenance programmes to assist in creating perfect eyebrows that totally transform your face. We measure your face and features to expertly create the perfect brow for you.
luxury french waxes
Luxury French waxes are used in premium intimate waxing. We use world famous techniques that contribute to a more comfortable, closer and quicker wax. Together it will totally transform any waxing experience you've had in the past. Located in Buckingham.
07921 504 296 Full treatment list available at:
www.tweakbeauty.co.uk or email kate@tweakbeauty.co.uk
To advertise call 07882 194830 or visit www.communitycontact.co.uk
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IN YOUR GARDEN
Topical advice from Buckingham Garden Centre’s, Chris Day
After what has been an incredibly mild winter, we need to flex our muscles and help revitalise our gardens as the longer days of spring fast approach. Time to prepare for the colour and rewards Nature so richly provide us with.
RE-WRITING the tasks as the weather dominates our gardens in 2016. Don’t panic about those spring bulbs pushing through and flowering early – you’ll simply be able to enjoy the flowers earlier! New shoots on tender plants, however, can become damaged. Small plants can be fleeced over, however buds emerging on larger plants may be knocked back, but this shouldn’t be a major problem. The worst scenario would be reduced flowering, damaged new growth or simply delayed growth. Fingers firmly crossed Nature continues to surprise us in a good way! The daffodils in the picture below were photographed in mid December at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London. LAWN If, towards the end of February, the weather turns dry and mild, the lawn is firm and the grass is starting to look a little shaggy, give it a very gentle mow with the blades on the highest setting but don’t be tempted if conditions are wet or frosty! As it has been wet, aerating or spiking the lawn might be useful. However, moss will start growing on lawns before the grass, so now is the time to start killing it with lawn sand. AFTER all the rain its hardy surprising to see its warm enough for slugs to get going, so be alert. Traps or pellets, for example the ferrous-based organic ones such as Growing Success Advanced Slug Killer, seem to be very effective. Apply them around Irises, Delphiniums and Hostas and where emerging vegetable seedlings are coming through to get the slimy beasts before they really start chomping in earnest. GET PLANTING! If the weather is kind, now is the time to plant lovely flowering trees and shrubs such as Magnolia stellata, M. x soulangeana, Pieris ‘Forest Flame’ (Pieris, in pots, if your soil is alkaline), Crab apples (Malus), Flowering cherries (Prunus), Spiraea and Ribes (pictured the popular variety ‘King Edward VII).
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LAST CALL This is a good time to divide late-flowering perennials such as Aster, Day Lilies (pictured), Echinacea, Rudbeckia, and Sedum. Lift and separate into good-sized pieces, discarding any congested, woody centres. Replant in good soil with some well-rotted compost, Bone Meal and Rootgrow. This is the last chance to cut back hard those shrubs that flower on this year’s growth, such as Buddlejas and Hydrangeas. You can remove weak growth of Magnolia grandiflora, Euonymus, Viburnum and evergreen Olearia now. Also give straggly lavenders a quick haircut. Remember to apply some Vitax Q4, from March onwards, around the base of these plants which have been pruned to help encourage good strong growth for the summer. SOW hardy annuals outdoors such as Calendula, Centaurea, Clarkia, Cosmos, Dahlia, Delphinium, Eschscholzia, Godetia, Ipomoea, Lavatera, Matthiola and Phlox. Many vegetable crops can be sown from February onwards - checking the instructions on the seed packets carefully and sow away! In the open, sow Broad Beans, Sprouting Broccoli, Kale, Leeks, Parsnip, early Peas (pictured), Salad Leaves, Swedes, Turnips, Carrots and Calabrese. If you are limited for space, modulesow outside (you don’t need a cold frame, just something to keep slugs at bay) and plant out as space becomes available. DIARY DATE We are holding our Potato Day on Saturday 27th February with top vegetable experts on-hand to give you help and guidance on all aspects of vegetable growing. On Sunday 28th February in conjunction with the Mid Shires Orchard Group, we are holding the 8th National Springtime Scionwood Swap. Come along and see how apple trees are grafted as well as meeting top fruit experts for the best practical advice. Both events run from 10am-4pm on each day. Check our website www.buckinghamgardencentre. co.uk for the latest Event News.
WIN £25 GARDEN CENTRE VOUCHERS To enter, simply answer the following question:
‘February Gold’, ‘Golden Ducat’ and ‘Ice Follies’, are all varieties of which popular spring flowering bulb? Send your answer together with your name and address to Community Contact Magazine Competition, Buckingham Garden Centre, Tingewick Road, Buckingham MK18 4AE. Alternatively, e-mail your answer with your details to:
competitions@communitycontact.co.uk The closing date for entries is the 31st March 2016 To advertise call 07882 194830 or visit www.communitycontact.co.uk
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COMMUNITY CONTACT MAGAZINE
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016
Sports 4 All Offering a huge range of activities for children in Buckingham and surrounding areas.
After school clubs including girl’s football and dodgeball
Saturday morning junior football
Birthday parties
UEFA B football coaching for local football clubs
PPA sessions for schools
HOLIDAY CLUBS Based at Bourton Meadow Academy 8am-6pm during every school holiday. Offering activities including: Performing Arts with our Italia Conti student Multi-sports & Gymnastics Cooking Arts and Crafts Zorbing and much more Football Camp
Our football camp runs alongside our holiday club for those that are football mad! We now accept childcare vouchers! Tel:07989467850
Email: matt.ogle@s4asports.co.uk
www.s4asports.co.uk To advertise call 07882 194830 or visit www.communitycontact.co.uk
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Pond Dipping: Sat 13 Feb 2016
EST. 1935
The Local Gin Producers
What's hiding beneath the surface of the new ponds at Meadow Farm at this time of year? Find out by joining us for one of these beginner sessions. Families booking children in different age groups may stay on site for the morning.
Foxdenton Estate are based in Buckingham and have been making fruit gins and London Dry Gin for over 6 years. Using locally grown fruit where possible and buying in from Farms further afield when not Foxdenton make a range of hugely popular gins. Sloe Gin is traditional but they also make Plum, Raspberry and Damson Gin.
for children
Available directly from their website or stocked by a range of local wine merchants (Oxford Wine) or delis such as Estrella in Winslow these make beautiful gifts as well as great presents to yourself!
for grown ups
10:00 – 11:00
Children, 5-11 years, accompanied by an adult. Use towards a ‘Hedgehog award’.
for teens 11:45 – 12:45
For young people 12-17 years; to be accompanied by an adult.
Bird Feast! Fri 19 Feb 2016 10:30 – 12:00
Find out what birds make their home at Meadow Farm. Discover what owls have made a feast of. Make feeders for birds in your garden. Can count towards a ‘Hedgehog award’. For children aged 7+. All these events are at:
Meadow Farm
near Bicester, on Thame Rd, OX25 1TW Booking essential. Go to www.bbowt.org.uk/whats-on or phone 01442 826774 Suggested donation £4 per participant
14:00 – 15:00 Adults only.
www.foxdentonestate.co.uk Tel: 01280 824855
01280 824 855 www.foxdentonestate.co.uk nick@foxdentonestate.co.uk
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Country Equestrian Horse and Pet Country Store
Ample customer parking. We collect and load larger bags of food, bales of hay, shavings and straw into your car. Open 8.30 to 5.00 Mon to Sat Home Farm, Poundon, OX27 9AY Tel: 01869 277742
info@countryequestrianltd.co.uk www.countryequestrianltd.co.uk Sow & Pigs Public House POUNDON
Country Equestrian Car park
Home Farm
From Marsh Gibbon 1 mile
From Stratton Audley 3 miles From Bicester 5 miles
From Twyford 1.5 miles
Wild Bird Supreme 20Kg £12.99 Wild Bird Fruit & Nut 20Kg £17.99 Fat Balls, Niger Seeds, Peanuts All available in 2Kg bags Hay, straw and shavings available in bales and smaller bags. Home produced quality hay.
POULTRY FEED Farmgate Layers Pellets 20kg £8.95, Farmgate Mixed Corn 20kg £8.75 Plus accessories.
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Country Eques A5 Ad_Feb Mar 16.indd 1
Its time to give up, giving up... It’s the time of year that alot of us think of making changes to our lives. One way we can make a positive start is to change our mind set. At the SML Diet, we want to help you one step at a time and here’s our guide to help you change that mindset once and for all. 1. Think happy = be happy You see some people and they just radiate happiness. Why can’t you have a bit of that you think to yourself. Well yes you can. However, it’s not as easy as some may think. If you are a glass half empty kind of person you are more than likely to find it more difficult to remain positive. However, there’s simple exercises you can complete to help you become a more positive person. Write down 3 good things that have happened to you today. See that wasn’t so hard was it? Now every night before you go to bed repeat this exercise. For the first few times, you’ll have to work at remembering this exercise but over time it’ll become habit (a bit like brushing your teeth - in fact you can do it whilst brushing your teeth it’s that simple). Over time, this exercise will help you to change the way you see the world in which you live in and not only will you feel happier, positive but you will also feel more grateful.
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2. Play that funky music..... I don’t know about you but music really gets me going. When i’m at work i always have music playing. It creates a much better environment for myself and the people i work with. I work better to music and in a strange way, it helps me concentrate. Music can evoke different emotions and reactions so when i’m in need of a motivational pick me up, i’ll play my kick ass playlist. Think tunes to get your blood pumped and yes i’m not ashamed to say i have the Rocky theme tune on that list. When i want to chill out and relax, i have my classical go to list and when i’m in the mood for learning, i’ll play a playlist from a motivational speaker to give me that kick that i need. Mr Blue sky by ELO is a must for any playlist - try feeling sorry for yourself when that song is playing. 3. Stop playing the victim card.... The number 1 reason why we give up is because of our own limitations. We like to pass the blame, make the excuses as to why we have given up. ‘i was hungry so i gave up my diet’ ‘ i didn’t have time to go to the gym’. We are in control of our lives and how we live them is down to us. The excuses we give are to make us feel better about not achieving results. Passing the blame on to someone or something else appeases our guilt. If we took responsibility and said ‘hands up i didn’t fancy it’ you would honestly feel so much better for it
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016 4. Get in shape... So new year new you and all that... January is the time that slimmers get ready to think of that beach body. It’s also the time that weight loss companies will be gearing up to help you lose weight. You don’t need to join a gym to get in shape but if that’s your bag... So getting in shape is easy right? I can’t tell you how many times i have joined a gym, brought an exercise dvd (only to find it on the shelf 6 months later in its cellophane). If you really want to get in shape, you need to find an exercise that you truly will enjoy. Exercise shouldn’t be seen as a chore. Who wants that?! It should be something that captures your spirit. I love swimming but when i was at my biggest the thought of going to a swimming pool became my worst nightmare. End result being? See number 3 - yes i was that victim playing that card. ‘everyone will think i’m fat and stare’ Do you like dancing? play some music and get moving in your home. There’s a phrase ‘dance like no-one is watching’ i say go for it let it go. Join a netball team, get a skipping rope (best thing i did - it’s so much fun). It doesn’t have to be rowing machines or running for miles on end. 5. Stop with the guilt... You can’t possibly move forward in life if you are still thinking about what happened yesterday. Why waste time beating yourself up? It’s time to draw that line and look at what you are going to do differently next time. I really dislike the word failure but it’s used so much by slimmers to describe their dieting regimes. Failures aren’t failures at all, they are just attempts at getting it right
the next time. 6. Surround yourself with motivational people... Ever heard the saying misery loves company? well it’s so true. I can’t tell you the amount of times, i have seen someone pull others down with them. The reason being, is that they don’t want to face the fact that they have given up so of course it allows them to feel better if they aren’t alone. Now i’m not telling you to go out and get a Mr Motivator to give you positive talk 24/7 (love him BTW), but if you surround yourself with people who lift you up, it can’t be a bad thing right? 7. What do you want to achieve? If you asked me 8 years ago what i wanted to achieve in life, i would have said just to have children and be happy but now that’s all changed. You see 8 years ago, i was a completely different person. The kind of person who set limitations and played the victim card. You see what i’m trying to say is dream big! Don’t limit yourself, if you want to travel around the world, complete a marathon, then do it! Look at this list and use it as your stepping stone to something better. I remember reading about Thomas Edison and some quotes he used when his attempts at inventing the lightbulb didn’t work. He said ‘I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work’ Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.
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KIDS CORNER FIND THE EASTER WORDS IN THIS PUZZLE C
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PARADE TRADITION CANDY CHICKS SUNDAY BONNET
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DAFFODILS BASKET PEEPS CHOCOLATE EASTER FAMILY
FLOWERS JELLY BEANS EGG HUNT GAMES BELLS BUNNY
LAMB EGGS MARSHMALLOW HOT CROSS BUNS NEW CLOTHES ROBIN EGGS
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ADULT PUZZLES SUDOKU
Every row, column and 3x3 square must contain one of each digit 1 to 9.
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Can you solve the questions and complete this issues quick crossword? 2
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One word will use all 9 letters...
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CROSSWORD 1
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How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram ? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may only be used once per word.
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Across 1. Strongly critical verbal attack (9) 8. Ivy League university (4) 9. Foregone conclusion (9) 10. Promotional publicity (4) 13. Group of people (informal) (5) 15. Become less sympathetic (6) 16. Into the bargain (2,4) 17. Feeble (6) 19. Cupid’s lover (6) 20. Bed quilt (5) 21. Disembark (4) 24. Sweet-talked (9) 25. Brief written record (4) 26. Innocent and trustful? (9) Down 2. Smell bad (4) 3. Tray (anag) (4) 4. Piste (3,3) 5. Notice (6) 6. Someone readily manipulated (4,5) 7. The chosen ones (6,3) 11. Causing pleasurable excitement (9) 12. Irreverent speech (9) 13. Facial hair (5) 14. Raise up (5) 18. Head of a mosque (6) 19. Fuel (6) 22. Small wooded valley (4) 23. Magistrate — schoolmaster (4)
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Under
12 s GO FREE at MK Dons
*Under 12s go free with £6 annual membership and an accompanying adult
call the box office on 0333 200 5343 | Visit MK Dons at centre:mk | visit mkdons.com
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IT’S COMPETITION TIME! WIN TICKETS FOR A FAMILY OF 4 TO SEE THE MK DONS V BRIGHTON ON MARCH 19TH 2016 All you have to do is answer this simple question: WHICH FORMER MK DONS STRIKER WHO GREW UP IN STEEPLE CLAYDON NOW PLAYS FOR CHAMPIONSHIP OPPONENTS BRIGHTON ? Email your answer across to us at competitions@communitycontact.co.uk Or alternatively tell us on Facebook! Deadline for entries is Tuesday 1st March 2016
SOFTWATER SOLUTIONS Water So)eners supplied & fi3ed from £750 Drinking Systems Sales -‐ Service – Repair All makes covered. Free Advice and EsGmates -‐ with 35 years experience.
Contact Steve on: 01296 728778 / 07799 590805 Email: steve@so)watersoluGons.com To advertise call 07882 194830 or visit www.communitycontact.co.uk 47
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The St. Tropez Lonely Hearts Club by Joan Collins Format: Hardback ISBN: 9781472122933 Price: £16.99 Available from Cole’s Books, Bicester Contessa Carlotta di Ponti, stunningly beautiful and filthy rich, has finally escaped her abusive marriage and is looking to find true love in St. Tropez. The party season kicks off with a spectacular bash at billionaire Harry Silver’s palatial mansion, but tragedy soon strikes. Could seemingly innocuous events - a bad oyster, a fatal wasp sting, a faulty funicular mean something more sinister for the bejewelled citizens of St. Tropez? It is up to glamorous detective Gabrielle Poulpe to save the day and find the murderer in their midst or life on St. Tropez as its residents know it could be over forever. Can Gabrielle find the culprit before it’s too late? Join the wealthy and the fabulous in the ultimate playground of the rich and the famous, for sun, sin, sex and scandal as they battle a threat from within... Biographical Notes: Witty, clever and beautiful, Dame Joan Collins possesses a singular star quality that has come to define what it means to be a living legend. As an actress, author and producer she has built a career that places her in the unrivalled ranks of an international icon. She has appeared in more than sixty feature films, dozens of plays, both in the West End and in the US, and many television series, including creating the role of Alexis Carrington on Dynasty, one of the most highly rated television dramas of all time. Her novels and memoirs have been bestsellers worldwide. She is a regular diarist for the Spectator and a contributor to the Daily Mail, Sunday Telegraph, Sunday Times, and Harper’s Bazaar.
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WIN THIS SIGNED BOOK JUST ANSWER THIS QUESTION:
WHAT IS DAME JOAN COLLINS MIDDLE NAME? Tell us your answer on Facebook or email us at competitions@ communitycontact.co.uk KINDLY DONATED BY COLE’S BOOKS DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES IS THURSDAY 31ST MARCH 2016
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The History of Pancake Day or Shrove Tuesday So why do we eat pancakes on Pancake Day? Well Pancake Day or Shrove Tuesday, is a significant and ancient tradition in the Christian Calendar. It is the day before Lent; the start of the traditional fast. The tradition of eating pancakes on Shrove Tuesday began as a way to use up ingredients including butter, milk and eggs that were not supposed to be eaten and would go bad during the period of Lent. Pancakes, particularly thin and buttery crepes, were a great way to use up these ingredients in one easy and indulgent dish. The tradition of eating pancakes is accessible to many regardless of religion, and the idea of a Pancake Day gets a little more popular every year. Locally, in Olney, every pancake day they host an annual race within the town. Following tradition, only local women who have lived in the town for six months or more can enter the race. It dates back to 1445 and it is believed it all began with a townswoman late for the Shriving service at the Olney parish church. For Olney woman, it was also important to attend the Shriving service before the start of Lent, a time to confess sins before Ash Wednesday. So the story goes, hearing the church bells ring out for the service, one Olney townswoman fled her house fearful of being late. She ran the distance down the High Street to make it to the parish church - still clutching her frying pan and wearing an apron. Now, the event is still commemorated hundreds of years later in the Olney pancake race. The Olney residents (women) compete in traditional apron, cap, and holding a frying pan with a real pancake. They must toss their pancake once at the start (outside The Bull Inn) and once at the finish by the church. The race starts at 11.55am. The Olney High Street is shut, and spectators line the route from the Market Place all the way to Olney’s St.Peter and St.Paul church. For more information visit www.olneypancakerace.org.
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Useful Contacts Doctor’s surgeries Masonic House Surgery: 01280 816450 Norden House Surgery: 01296 713434 Northend Surgery Buckingham: 01280 818600 Northend Surgery Steeple Claydon: 01296 733300 Verney Close Practice: 01280 822777 Winslow Health Centre: 01296 714777 Emergency services Bicester police station: 01865 841148 Buckingham Police – dial 101 for non-emergencies 999 for all emergencies Milton Keynes Hospital: 01908 660033 Stoke Mandeville hospital: 01296 315000 Buckingham Community Hospital: 01280 813243 Wycombe Hospital: 01494 526161 Bicester Community Hospital: 01869 604000 John Radcliffe Hospital – Oxford: 01865 741166 Crime Stoppers: 0800 555111 Drugs Help line: 0800 776600 Anti bullying Help Line: 0808 800 2222 NHS Out of Hours: 111 RSPCA Emergency: 0300 1234999 Anglian Water Flood line: 0800 771 881 Cancer support groups Macmillan Support: 0300 100 0200 Marie Curie: 0800 716 146 Florence Nightingale: 01296 332600 Post offices Tingewick: 01280 848374 Buckingham post office: 01280 813506 Steeple Claydon: 01296 738357 Winslow post office: 01296 712900
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Advertiser Directory P2. Open Doors P6. Mobile Cold Store P6. Cygnet Interiors P7. Russell & Butler P9. The Crown, Granborough P11. World of Wood P11. At Home P12. Stanley Rose Furniture P12. Country Patios and Paving P13. The Black Boy, Oving P14. Stockwood Osteopathic P14. 1st 4 Hot Tubs P16. Method & Class P16. Village Networks, Rural Broadband P17. Winslow Dental Practice P18. Pepper Tree P18. Beautifully Different P19. Toby’s Restaurant P19. Dapples Gifts P19. Oakpark Alarms P21. Jessica Rose Floristry P23. Claydon Cabs P23. Twyford Cricket Club P26. Claydon Wellness P26. Claydon Dental P27. Spektackle Solutions P27. Prego, Italian Restaurant P30. The Sow & Pigs, Poundon P30. Oven Angels P31. MDS Bespoke Sewing Services P31. Derek Pelling Photography P31. Tweak Beauty P32-33. Buckingham Garden Centre P34. Secret Messages Interiors P35. Sports 4 All P36. Foxdenton - Local Gin Producers P36. Wild at Heart, Wildlife Trusts
P36. Windmill Veterinary Centre P37. Country Equestrian P38-39. SML Diet P40. Pasha P40. Finca El Monte P40. In Stitches P41. Body Matters P41. The Woolpack P41. At Home P41. The Nimble Thimble P42. KGB Car Body Repairs P42. Dickins Auctioneers Ltd P42. Bridge Street Flooring Ltd P42. Pasha P43. Earthmirror Roofing P43. Croft Tree Services P43. GMS P46. MK Dons P47. Softwater Solutions P48. Claydon Racing Bookmakers P48. Sootbusters 24/7 P49. Lovell Fuels P51. Cole’s Books, Bicester P53. Green Light Autos P54. Pernatile P54. The Crown Inn, Twyford P55, W.G.Hill & Son, Solid Fuel Merchants P55. RH Tank Services P56. Buckingham Glass P56. Multifold Doors P59. KJN Rear Cover - David Gibbons Upholstery
Copy Deadline Date for the Apr-May Issue
Friday 4th March 2016 58
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