Alcon aug 15

VILLAGER The

Issue 41 - August 2015

and Town

Life

LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS

Inside this issue

Tropical Paradise Win Tickets to the Cruise Show, Birmingham Win £25

in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People in Alconbury, Grafham, Kimbolton, Riseley, The Stukeleys and all surrounding areas every month

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Contents Memories of the Birth of Scouting

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VILLAGER The

and Town

Issue 41 - August 2015

Life

LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS

Inside this issue

Tropical Paradise Win Tickets to the Cruise Show, Birmingham Win £25

in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People in Alconbury, Grafham, Kimbolton, Riseley, The Stukeleys and all surrounding areas every month

Animal Heroes........................................................29 Samaritans.............................................................30 Spiders from the Fork.............................................33 A Holiday in East Sussex.........................................34 Puzzle Page............................................................36 What’s On...............................................................38 Prize Crossword......................................................42 Russel Grant’s Horoscopes......................................45 Book Review..........................................................47

Spiders from the Fork

33

Memories of the Birth of Scouting...........................4 Are Extended Warranties Worth the Money?............8 Belle of the Beach..................................................10 Win Tickets to the Cruise Show, Birmingham.........12 Heritage, History and Heartbreak...........................15 Wildlife Trust’s Summer Meadows..........................16 A Parent is still a Parent after Divorce.....................21 England 1, Germany 0............................................22 What Keeps You Awake at Night?...........................23 Tropical Paradise....................................................27 11,000 copies delivered free of charge in the following areas: Abbots Ripton, Alconbury, Brington, Buckworth, Bythorn, Catworth, Covington, Dillington, Grafham, Great Staughton, Hail Weston, Keyston, Kimbolton, Kings Ripton, Leighton Bromswold, Little Staughton, Lower Dean, Molesworth, Old Weston, Perry, Pertenhall, Ramsey, Riseley, Sawtry, Shelton, Stonley, Stow Longa, Swineshead, The Stukeleys, Tillbrook, Upper Dean and Warboys (We also have over 150 distribution points, including pubs, garages, most shops, post offices, Supermarket Chains in all of the above as well as in Huntingdon, Lt Staughton, Grafham Water Visitor Centre’s and Kimbolton)

Editorial - Catherine Rose, Jonathan Vernon-Smith, Kate Duggan, Barry Ingram, Tony Larkins, Abby Smith, Pippa Greenwood, RSPCA, Hannah Byatt, Andy Mydellton, Tim Saunders,Bruce Edwards and Russell Grant.

Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Scott - 01767 261122 scott@villagermag.com Photography - Chris Melchior, Emma Porter and Darren Harbar Photography

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Publishers Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com www.villagermag.com Disclaimer - All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however, Villager Publications Ltd can not take any responsibility for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the editorial. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher.

Design and - Design Tel 07762please 969460 call 01767 261122 To advertise in Artwork The Villager and9Townlife

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History Gillian Clay at Baden-Powell Way

Memories of the

Birth of Scouting

The international Scout movement’s founder, Lord Robert Baden-Powell hoped that Scouting would be “a tool of peace for the world” according to his granddaughter Gillian Ella St Clair Clay.

“He believed that if everyone had the same values, learned the same skills, played the same games, sang the same silly songs, and had the same attitude towards helping people, they wouldn’t want to fight each other” she says.

Gill, who was born in South Africa in June 1937 to the Baden-Powells’ daughter Betty and her husband Gervas Clay, came to Bedfordshire all the way from her home in Wales in June of this year to officially name the longest Baden-Powell road in Europe Baden-Powell Way on the new Kings Reach Estate in Biggleswade. She was accompanied by her great nephew and the great great grandson and granddaughter of Lord Robert, seven-year-old Cub Scout Oscar Clay and his six-year old sister Beaver Scout Anna, who unveiled a commemorative plaque that has a history of their famous ancestor.

Part of Bedfordshire’s Green Wheel Pathway, when it is open, Baden-Powell Way will be 2 km (1.2 miles)

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By Catherine Rose

long. It joins many roads named after Baden-Powell worldwide including the Baden-Powell Trail in California, the Lord Baden-Powell Drive in Australia’s Wagga Wagga, and the Baden Powell Drive along the coast from Cape Town, South Africa. It is linked to other streets on the King’s Reach Estate that have been named in honour of Biggleswade and District Scouts following their contribution to the community, including the planting of 100 trees on the Green Wheel Pathway during their centenary.

The groups were re-dubbed during the space race of the 1960s hence there is Planets Way, Jupiter Way, Neptune Drive, Mercury Lane, Gemini Lane and Erris Avenue.

Gill was raised with the first-hand knowledge that “Scouting is fun” from her grandmother Olave, Lord Robert’s wife and was a Brownie in England by the time she was eight and a half. Although she was put on her grandfather’s knee from a young age, it is her grandmother Olave who she remembers best and she very kindly shared her family album exclusively with The Villager in the photos published here.

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Gillian as a child with her mother and grandmother, Lady Baden-Powell Olave, 20 years his junior, met Robert Baden-Powell when they travelled together on the SS Arcadian to New York in 1912. He was already famous for his involvement in the newly-formed Scouting movement. Each Scout in England donated a penny to buy them the wedding gift of a car.

“My grandmother was great fun. We absolutely loved her” said Gill, recalling visits to Olave for treats.

“I remember her getting ready for some event, polishing her shoes and badge.”

When Gill led her own Brownie group, Olave inspected it, captured here in this rare photo. It becomes clear that both Gill and her mother had no choice when it came to their involvement with Scouting (nor would they have wanted to). Gill tells the story of how one of her brothers came home from Cubs and announced he had volunteered their mother to be the next Akela.

Betty, who died in 2004, was Colony Commissioner for northern Rhodesia. After retirement, she continued as Gill’s assistant Brownie leader. Today, at 78, Gill still works as an assistant Beaver Scout leader, having been a leader for a decade at Beavers and for 18 years at Cubs.

In 2007 for the first time, girls were officially allowed to join Cubs and Scouts. With a blurring of the traditional gender divide, the official line is that both movements have slightly different aims, with Guides having a ‘young women in society’ focus and Scouts being open to all. Gill hopes that Scouts remains “boyish” but admitted she is very glad girls can be in Scouts.

“My daughter would have loved to be in it” said Gill. “She always participated in everything but she couldn’t do badges.

“I think that which one you choose will depend on where your friends and family go. Activities vary with the leaders. Some leaders are very adventurous and others opt more for craft-based pursuits” but adds “They can both do everything”.

She adores Bear Grylls, the ‘survival’ celebrity who was appointed as Chief Scout and the public face of Scouting in 2009. “I think Bear Grylls is wonderful” she said. “He and Peter Duncan have completely transformed the attitude of the media towards

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Scouting. For a long time, it wasn’t cool to be in Scouts and Guides. Now it is cool!”

Whether cool or not, “millions of people have lived and are currently living in the Baden-Powell way” - something that Gill points out in her speech when naming the road not just after her famous grandfather, but after his vision too. The ‘BadenPowell Way’ stands for “helping others and finding fulfilment and happiness”.

On the day of the event, the Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis; the Town Mayor Hazel Ramsey; the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Lady Isabelle and local counsellors joined Gill with Biggleswade and District Scouts and Guides to celebrate. The day began with a traditional soap box derby.

Helen Nellis is also patron of Youth United which was launched in Bedfordshire in 2014. Its aim is to bring together young peoples’ community groups so that resources can be pooled. It also hopes to encourage more adult leaders to come forward.

Helen believes Scouts is invaluable in teaching the social and life skills not necessarily learned at school. “Through camping, outdoor activities and sociability, the Scouting movement teaches young people confidence, teamwork and high self esteem which are the things you need in life. Children learn early on about helping in their community” she said.

“It is rewarding and enjoyable for adults too. Once they dip their toe in the water, they usually stay for around 30 years!”

Four of those young people are Emilia de Luca, Dan Bownes, Maddy Letowska and Ben Febery-Watts from the 28th Bedfordshire and Anglia Scouts and Guides (known as the Clangers) who had been chosen to attend the 12-day 23rd World Scout Jamboree in Tokyo that took place last month.

Today, only four countries in the world do not have Scouts: North Korea, Laos, Andorra and the Chinese Republic and Gill believes her grandfather would not have foreseen the huge growth, popularity and longevity of the movement when he founded it over a hundred years ago.

“He was very disappointed when World War Two came, and sadly he died during the war so didn’t live to see the movement spread as far as it has” she said.

“There were 16 million Scouts in 160 countries when my son was in Cubs. He is 43 now and today there are nearly 40 million, including 10 million Guides.”

Lord Robert Baden-Powell believed you should “try and leave this world a little better than you found it”. Today, his granddaughter continues to spread his vision for young people everywhere.

New leaders are always needed for local groups. If you are interested, please visit: www.scouts.org.uk and search in your local area.

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Three Counties Radio

By Jonathan Vernon-Smith

Are Extended Warranties

Worth the Money?

It doesn’t seem to matter what product you’re buying, there’s now an extended warranty available for everything.

The question people often ask me on my radio show is whether it’s a good idea to pay the extra and take one out?

My answer is generally a big, fat NO! Under your statutory rights you are protected for a ‘reasonable’ amount of time if a manufacturing defect occurs with a product. Depending on the item and the initial cost, this is generally as long as an extended warranty would last anyway.

Remember when the retailer says that after 12 months there’s nothing they can do, they’re fobbing you off. The extended warranty is normally a way of charging you for something you really don’t need.

Sadly some consumers are so trusting of retailers that they believe the company’s advice to be sound. I went to a well known shop once and bought a radio for £15.99. The retailer tried very hard to sell me a 3 year extended warranty for £20. I explained that if the radio failed after a couple of years I would simply purchase a new one at another cost of £15.99. The shop assistant seemed amazed that I was so hostile to the idea. Sadly I would imagine many people go ahead and pay an additional £20 that’s totally pointless.

You should however remember that often when claiming under your statutory rights that a battle will probably ensue. A battle that will require you to hold your nerve.

For most things I would urge you to fight that battle (and call me if you need help), but for other essential products (stairlifts / electric wheelchairs etc) you may consider buying the extended warranty just to give you hassle free piece of mind, and you know what? I wouldn’t blame you.

The rule of thumb is always think long and hard before you hand over your money for something you probably don’t need.

It is also worth looking into the idea of purchasing insurance policies that cover all of your white goods for mechanical failure. For consumers looking for hassle free piece of mind at a lower cost these can be a good alternative to the ‘extended warranty. Please read the terms and conditions though beforehand and understand exactly what the policy will cover.

Jonathan Vernon-Smith not only offers you his consumer advice here but you can listen to The JVS Show tackling your consumer problems every weekday morning from 9am.

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Health & Beauty

Belle of the Beach Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

Late nights, lazy days at the beach and endless mojitos… we do love summer holidays. Whether you’re heading off for a week in the Canaries, catching a cruise ship to the Caribbean, or just taking the kids camping to Cornwall, feast your eyes on our pick of the latest beauty releases.

If you like ‘buying British’ you’ll love the new British Botanical Shower Cream from Elemis, which uses UK-sourced ingredients such as chamomile, lavender, rosemary and oats. It smells divine and is incredibly nourishing. At £24 it is rather pricey, but definitely one to consider if you fancy treating yourself.

Looking for a sun cream that’s suitable for all the family? Try Green People’s Organic Children Scent Free Sun Lotion, £16.95. It’s non-greasy and rubs in more easily than a lot of the other natural sunscreens on the market. Offering both UVA and UVB protection, with a choice of SPF 25 or 30, it offers great all round protection. Plus it’s packed with fruit and seed oils, including avocado, olive and aloe vera, and is kind to sensitive skin. It is water-resistant, but won’t survive a long swim in the pool, so do make sure that you reapply it regularly.

If you prefer a lipstick to a gloss, but hate the drying effect that some lipsticks can have, you’ll want to get your hands on one of the new Burt’s Bees Lip Crayons. 100% natural, the crayons use shea butter, jojoba oil and kendi oil to soften and moisturise your lips. I could still feel the difference by the next day.

There are six shades available.

My personal favourite is Sedana Sands – a natural pink with just a hint of caramel, which

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is perfect for summer. Burt’s Bees Lip Crayons are priced at £8.99 and are available from Debenhams, Fenwick and www.burtsbees.co.uk.

We all know the risks, but when the sun is shining and we’re baring our pins on a golden beach, we can’t help but want a tan. Sometimes it’s OK to fake it, and tanning is one of those occasions.

Don’t let the visions of Oompa Loompa lookalikes put you off; fake tans have come a long way and you no longer have to choose between milk bottle white or tangerine orange. For best results, wax or shave the day before, exfoliate well, then follow with a body lotion. Wait until the lotion is fully absorbed before applying the tan. New to the UK market is Aussie tanning brand Black Magic.

Try the Black Magic Instant Tanning Mousse, £23, which is tinted, extremely easy to apply and comes with a mitt to keep your hands stain-free. www. blackmagictan.co.uk If late night cocktails have left your skin looking a bit lacklustre, or you just don’t fancy slapping on foundation in the heat, give Origins GinZing™ Energy-Boosting Moisturizer, £23, a go. Designed to ‘wake up’ tired looking skin and leave it with a healthier looking glow, it’s no surprise that this has quickly become one of Origins’ ‘hero’ products.

A 75ml limited edition version was released this spring, featuring a funky coffee bean lid, but it was snapped up pretty quickly. Still, you may be lucky and find one lurking at the back of a shelf in Debenhams…

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N O I T I T E P M O C The CRUISE Show Birmingham 12-13 September 2015 www.cruisingshow.com Discover a whole world of voyages at The CRUISE Show in Birmingham...

As Europe’s leading cruise event, The CRUISE Show will host the largest collection of major cruise lines and specialist operators all under one roof for one weekend!

Whether you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruise to a far-flung destination, a sumptuous ultra-luxury voyage, maybe a relaxing cultural river cruise or a tropical family cruiseholiday with lots to entertain all ages – The CRUISE Show at the NEC has it all.

Packed with information and inspiration visitors can enjoy exclusive money-saving show offers and upgrades, be inspired by the informative free talks, gain essential expert advice that you won’t find in the brochure, discover different ship styles and incredible destinations and hear directly from the cruise lines about what’s new for 2015/2016.

So, if you’re completely new to cruising and intrigued to discover what it’s all about, or you’re a seasoned cruiser wanting inspiration for your next adventure, then make sure you head to The CRUISE Show at Birmingham’s NEC on 12-13 September 2015.

For more show information please visit www.cruisingshow.com

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We are giving 10 lucky people the chance to win a pair of tickets to the show!

Just answer this simple question below: Where is The CRUISE Show in Birmingham taking place? a) Olympia b) NEC c) Manchester Central Send your answer with your name, address and telephone number to: Cruise Show Birmingham Competition, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP READER’S TICKET OFFER: We are also offering reduced price advance tickets to the show! Get your tickets for only £4 (that’s saving £6 off the door price!!) by quoting ‘VILLAGER’ when booking tickets online at www.cruisingshow.com or when calling 0871 620 4024.

(Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras).

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Local News

By Barry Ingram

Heritage, History & Heartbreak

Reads like the buzz line for a exciting new book which you should go out and buy. However this isn’t a book but you do have to buy into it and you do need to get a jacket and put on pair of good shoes or boots to get the most from it.

In just a few weeks time Bedfordshire’s biggest walking event comes either to your town or village or nearby. Commencing on Saturday 5th September there are 9 days of absolute pleasure for those liking the countryside with over fifty walks and many of them located in the east and central part of the county.

This part of Bedfordshire has so much heritage and history along with corresponding heartbreak your 9 days will be well spent. Informative walks are where the leader gives information along the way, not too much to bore but enough to generate even more interest, and starts with World War 2 special operations at Tempsford Airfield which should appeal to local and WW2 Historians and people interested in RAF and Special operations on Saturday 5th. On Sunday 6th Stotfold Mill is the starting point for an interesting ramble around the village with an opportunity to visit the mill and enjoy refreshments afterwards.

Shuttleworth Park opens its grounds for a walk using paths normally not open to the public and part of the picturesque village of Old Warden is added for good measure. At the end why not visit Swiss Garden or the Aircraft museum after some

refreshment in the restaurant. RSPB has a walk in woods and normal car park charges are being waived for the event.

Later in the week there is Three Mills walk from Stotfold Mill and a Heath and Quarry walk starting from Sandy Town Council Offices and led by Barry Groom from Sandy Tourism. However if you want to go further a field there is an opportunity to climb the tower of St Mary’s Church Clophill after finding out about Clophill’s historical landscape and at Ampthill an opportunity to find out about its history and Henry V111’s involvement with the town.

However if it is simply a good walk you want why not join the morning or afternoon walk from Haynes Village Hall, Ampthill Park, Maulden Woods, and Biggleswade’s Dan Albone Car park or join us on the Greensand Ridge Challenge 40 miles over two days on the weekend of the 12th and 13th.

For those who would like to get out into the countryside but don’t understand maps help is at hand with two “Maps are fun” sessions on Saturday 5th at the Marston Vale Forest Centre.

The festival programme contains walks of heritage, History and Heartbreak and are spread across the whole of the county and is available in Libraries, Travel Hubs, Local Town Councils, local attractions, some shops and cafes or via the web site

www.bedswalkfest.co.uk

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Local News

Wildlife Trust

A Stroll through our Summer Meadows One of the greatest pleasures of summer is a languid stroll through a picture perfect meadow brim-full of wafting wildflowers.

Across the county, some of the Wildlife Trust nature reserves include gorgeous meadows in numerous locations on walks by the River Ouse from Hemingford, St Ives and Portholme to Godmanchester and Brampton. Despite being close to towns and major roads, the Ouse Valley riverside meadows provide wide vistas and stunning examples of flower-rich grasslands.

At Hemingford you can watch sand martins, swallows and swifts feeding over the river and wheeling around the old bridges. Meadow pipits, sky larks and banded demoiselles are also commonly seen in the meadows alongside butterflies, bees, beetles and moths.

Smaller, more intimate meadows such as Houghton Meadows, Chettisham Meadow or Upwood Meadows have a greater variety of flowers produced on clay rather than silty soils. These are traditional landscapes in full bloom. Old grasslands have become scarce and many are now mostly surrounded by arable fields.

Houghton Meadows www.wildlifebcn.org/reserves/houghton-meadows is made up of five fields - ancient hay meadows and pasture. From spring to summer it is a sea of flowers - yellow cowslips, the pink spears of orchids and purple knapweed. Once the hay is cut in July, ridges and furrows left behind from when oxen ploughed fields in the Middle Ages are revealed. Surrounding the meadows are ancient hedgerows, currently undergoing rejuvenation using traditional methods. Almost hidden at the back of the reserve is a tiny brook which joins the ox-bow of the Ouse towards Hemingford

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Grey - a refuge for an array of aquatic plants and domain of the distinctive hairy dragonfly.

Chettisham Meadow www.wildlifebcn.org/reserves/chettisham-meadow is a historic remnant of neutral grassland that has been managed as a traditional hay meadow for over a century. Medieval ridge-and-furrow earthworks are still visible and many different fine grasses are found, including sweet vernal-grass, red fescue, quakinggrass and yellow oat-grass. Cowslips with their apricot-scented yellow-orange flowers are abundant from March to May. A spectacular show of greenwinged orchids appears in late April. Other plants include bee and common spotted-orchids, ox-eye daisy, adder’s-tongue fern and pepper-saxifrage.

Upwood Meadows www.wildlifebcn.org/reserves/upwood-meadows Designated a National Nature Reserve for its floristic diversity, the greatest display is in Bentley meadow where the earthworks provide differing microhabitats for plants and invertebrates. Here plants include cowslip, green-winged orchid, saw-wort, dropwort, and sulphur clover. Dyer’s greenweed provides summer-long colour and nectar for bees and butterflies. The surrounding mature hedgerows and trees are nesting habitats for birds including turtle dove, blackcap and whitethroat, and provide food for winter visitors such as fieldfare and redwing. Dew ponds dug in each field, originally for watering livestock, are breeding grounds for great crested newts, dragonflies and damselflies.

Join our glorious Friday evening dusk safaris along the River Cam on our ‘bat punt’ - a highlight of summer. Set off at dusk, bat detector in hand, and experience the sights and sounds of the river until darkness. www.wildlifebcn.org/events/bat-punting-safaris (until 25th September).

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Call for free, no obligation consultation with a fully qualified mortgage and insurance specialist, available 7 days a week.

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Family Law

A parent is still a parent

even after divorce or separation By family lawyer Abby Smith of Woolley & Co, Solicitors www.family-lawfirm.co.uk I am often surprised at how people expect their status as a parent to change, simply because their relationship status does. Being a partner or a spouse is something that can cease or change depending on the choice of one or both parties.

However, parenthood is for life.

Labels – helpful or not?

The terminology we use to describe ourselves and each other after separation can be very telling about how we view co-parenting after separation. It is no coincidence that the Family Justice system has striven to change the language we use and ‘custody’ and ‘access’ became ‘residence’ and ‘contact’ and, most recently, simply ‘child arrangements’. The emphasis is clearly on both parents having meaningful involvement in parenting their children.

The term ‘single parent’ is a curious one. It is a fact that children generally have two parents, so why does the process of separation mean they only end up with one? After separation children will generally spend time with each parent separately, so both parents will be ‘single’ parents at some time or another.

The same applies to the term ‘parent with care’.

After separation both parents can and do care for their children, just not at the same time. Time spent with each parent will depend on lots of factors but, like it or not, the general position is that children need routine, so one parent, certainly in school time, will probably have more time for hands on care than the other. The parent who has traditionally accommodated the school routine often practically has more time to undertake care during these times and can become labelled the “parent with care”.

The polar opposite of the ‘parent with care’ is the ‘absent parent’. This is quite an unfair description, as on the whole, the parent who has left the family home has done so to minimise disruption for their children, rather than absconding or attempting to slip out of their parenting obligations. Whilst this parent might not see their children every day after separation, they usually are and wish very much to remain ‘present’ in their children’s lives.

Parental Responsibility All married parents will have parental responsibility for their children and all unmarried parents will also have parental responsibility so long as they are named on the child’s birth certificate (for children born after December 2003). Parental responsibility is completely unaltered by separation and rarely affected by child arrangement orders. Parental responsibility exists whether the children are spending time with a parent or not. That means the right to be informed and consulted about all key aspects of a child’s life such as education, health, religious upbringing and medical treatment. These areas require two parent decisions and, unless an order provides otherwise, parents need to agree if children are to be removed from the country, even for a holiday. In practice, it generally makes sense for both parents to have relationships with the school and GPs but any big decisions will require discussion.

Parents can, and do, parent differently once separated Parents are permitted to exercise their parental responsibility in their own way when children are spending time with them. As frustrating as it might be, parents can and do parent differently and attempts by one parent to control how time is spent, what children eat and who children spend time with in that period are given very short shrift by the Court. It does make sense for routines to be similar and diet and health needs met but parents can parent the way they choose, provided that their choices are not unsafe or otherwise damaging to the child.

Whatever the arrangement in place it must always be remembered that parents remain parents and they retain responsibility for their children.

Nothing has changed. They just don’t live together anymore.

For advice on any family law issue contact Abby Smith for a FREE initial telephone consultation. Call 01480 270499 or email abby.smith@family-lawfirm.co.uk

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21

Beacon Wealth

Tony Larkins CFP APFS CMgr FCMI Managing Director / IFA Chartered and Certified Financial Planner

England 1 Germany 0 Lionesses roared and achieved the unexpected. A bronze medal was a fantastic achievement which may have been silver, if not for the own goal, but a penalty awarded for an incident clearly outside of the area.

Good tactics, detailed planning, enthusiasm and determination to do their best may have worked at the world cup, but it also works in life.

A recent report by KPMG (firm providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services) has found that 59% of people have no financial plan, and whilst 71% do have at least an idea of how much income they will need in retirement, most had underestimated.

At Beacon the investments have exceeded our own expectations with growth rates ranked top year to date and averaging over 10% per annum, with our lowest risk related portfolio achieving over 6% in the last 12 months when the FSTE achieved 0%.

We may have not foreseen the problems in Greece, or the fall in oil prices, but risk profiling and

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diversification has worked.

We can help you with your plan, whether it is as simple as moving Cash ISA’s, maximising pensions, using the latest tax breaks in the budget, or sorting the new company pension requirements.

A personal plan is like a garden. It can just be grass that you keep mowing or it can be landscaped with plants and flowers that you nurture. A perfect garden can be achieved quickly with lots of money and established plants, and in the same way we can help you achieve your plan if you already have sufficient capital, or alternatively we can help it grow and develop.

Why not design a plan and ‘grow your life today’. As the Lionesses found, anything can be achieved with forethought.

You should always seek qualified advice from an IFA, preferably a Certified (CFP) Or Chartered Financial PlannerCM (APFS). If you have a financial question, e-mail: tlarkins@beaconwealth.co.uk

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What Keeps You

Awake at Night?

Isn’t it strange that we can go to bed feeling tired, after perhaps watching television or reading a book, but just as we lie there our mind starts to think about a problem we have, be that money, children, or marriage.

It is only when we relax and stop thinking about what we are doing that our subconscious comes to the fore. We lay there analysing the problem, looking at it in different ways, and sometimes we even come up with a solution.

In the morning we have either totally forgotten about the problem, which has now been pushed to the back of our minds, or realise the solution actually does not work when you apply conscious logic. If your problem ever involves your family and cannot be solved, a good sound board could be a solicitor.

As the Head of the Matrimonial Department I have seen many highs and lows that equally have kept my clients awake at night. Whether they are co-habiting, but not married and want to make sure that everything is sorted should something ever happen, or going through a divorce with or without children.

This is one reason I was drawn to this area of law, as I wanted to offer help and support, especially to those clients going through a difficult time. The NHS shockingly state that poor sleep can shorten your life expectancy (source: nhs.uk), which is the last thing you want to think about when going through

Jeffrey Mills Hannah Byatt Head of Family Department

a difficult time, and so it is my aim to help my clients sleep a little easier.

If you are being kept awake at night for one problem you do not then want to replace it with another, for example, confrontation or cost of advice from a solicitor.

I am a member of Resolution (www.resolution. org.uk) highlighting my commitment to resolving disputes in a constructive and non-confrontational way and also offer a range of fixed fee services, or the option to pay by instalments.

If we have concerns over our money we speak to a financial adviser, if it is our children we speak to them, and if our partnership/marriage comes to an end we seek advice from a solicitor. But why not seek advice from a solicitor who will provide impartial, independent advice, who is dedicated to putting your needs and desires first.

You may have already divorced but didn’t obtain a court order to formalise your financial agreement, and find yourself wondering if you are entitled to more. Don’t let it keep you awake at night, find out.

Don’t we all deserve a good night’s sleep and an uncluttered subconscious mind? – Sleep tight.

Should you require legal assistance from a firm with family values and a fresh approach, contact myself or one of our team at Jeffrey Mills Solicitors. If you have a question, e-mail: h.byatt@jeffreymills.co.uk

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23

Mano Bird seed & Established for over 50 years Family run business Arguably the best selection of wild bird products in 3 counties Committed to Quality Products and Service Easy to find – Brington is just 1 mile away from Junction 16 on A14 Large car parking space One UK’s best known bird food suppliers Manor Farm Granaries Brand Bird Food manufactured on site.

• Chicken food pellets mash scratching mix mixed corn and large selection requisites

• Dog foods • Cat foods • Small pets Food

• Insect and wildlife habitats

• Pond food

• Insect study kits

• Pigeon Food and requisites • Cage and Aviary Bird Food and requisites • Wild bird Food Food and requisites

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• Animal bedding Straw hay Shavings small packs and large bales

• Great selection of countryside greeting cards.

• Country side calendars • Selection of local honey and Very yummy jams & pickles very yummy I have tried most of them.

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nor Farm Country Store

Open

Saturday Monday through pm 00 5. to am 00 9. y 4.00pm on Sunda and 10.00am to

• Rolls of Wire for aviaries chickens etc • Great prices on a good selection of Coal, logs kindling. Best prices for miles.

• Bird tables • Bird houses • Confectionary/sweets & soft Drinks • Potatoes various bag sizes and onions

Brington, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE28 5AF Tel : 01832 710235 Email:sales@manorfarmbirdseed.co.uk

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III SHIRES PEST CONTROL Call Matthew 07836 754014 / 01480 811330 Control of Wasps, Ants, Bees, Fleas, Bedbugs, Moths, Carpet Beetles, Cockroaches, Rats, Mice, Squirrels and Birds Suppliers of UV Fly Killers CRB Checked and Fully Insured Prompt and Discreet Professional Service Residential - Commercial - Industrial - Agricultural

E: enquiries@3shirespestcontrol.co.uk W: 3shirespestcontrol.co.uk

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Garden

By Pippa Greenwood

Tropical Paradise As the summer’s end is not too far away, many of us will be wishing for that exotic holiday we never quite had. But you can recreate that Typically Tropical Feel in your own garden instead. The temperatures may not be quite what they might be on a real exotic holiday, but it’ll certainly help to make your garden feel warmer and more appealing, and you can be sure that it’ll last a lot longer than the classic two week long trip.

A tropical oasis might be particularly well suited to an urban garden, where temperatures are often warmer and conditions more sheltered and protected, but even if your garden gets its fair share of frosts you can still make an impact using a mixture of tender and hardy plants all of which have that exotic feel to them. Plant closely or fill ‘gaps’ with temporary plantings of the less hardy tropical look plants and you will create that dense, lush looks which spells tropical paradise.

Lush, large leaves will always help to create a rainforest or exotic atmosphere and you could even grow a miniature banana called Musa ‘Basjoo’, which shows a good degree of hardiness. Indian shot plants, also known as the cannas are great and fast growing too. For very bold, colourfully striped foliage and screaming orange flowers try Canna ‘Tropicana’, or for a larger than life effect try the banana Ensetes ventricosum ‘Maurelii’ which grows very fast and has wonderfully rich purplegreen leaves.

If you want more than just foliage, the bulbous Eucomis bicolour has out-of-this world greenish yellow flowerheads which give it the common name of ‘pineapple plant’. Another favourite of mine is the Angel’s trumpet. These gorgeous looking plants may be very poisonous but the flowers of Brugmansia (previously known as

Datura) as angel’s trumpet is also known, take some beating – choose white, yellow or cream and enjoy their perfume and elegant good looks.

Although not hardy if you grow it in a pot it can be kept in the garden during all but the worst weather and then brought out again once it has started to warm up the following spring.

Don’t forget the vertical surfaces such as trellis, walls and fences as they too can be given a floral and foliage makeover. These may look boring now, but will look great when covered with passion flowers, ornamental vines or the pretty Cobea scandens commonly known as the cup and saucer plant.

Then add to the ‘action’ using a few dramatic features – perhaps a Trachycarpus fortunei palm in open ground or a pot, or in the form of a sculpture or statue. If you go to the garden centre, many statues and garden ornaments are much more affordable than you might think. Partially hidden with some lush foliage they help to add to the jungle-like atmosphere.

There are plenty of tropical-effect plants to choose from including: tree ferns, phoenix palms, yuccas, cordylines, Rodgersia pinnata, Gunnera manicata, Rheum palmatum, cycads, citrus (including lemons, calamondin orange and other fruiting varieties) and bamboos.

So, you see, the potential is there to create a holiday paradise without having to leave home, brave delays at the airport, find a house or petsitter…..all you need now is a deck chair and a cocktail or two, delivered on a tray!

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for Nemaslug & other biocontrols, Speed Hoes, Speed Weeders SoftTie, pop-up crop covers, copper tape and lots more besides.

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Plant Hire 3 ton and 13 ton operated excavator hire Can be fitted with hydraulic grab Low loader hire available for transport of excavators increasing accessibility and reducing costs Groundworks, Landscaping, Demolition Waterscapes, Ditching, Drainage Sand Blasting Fencing, Timber Decking, Tree Surgery Fully insured and qualified.

Friendly - Reliable - Professional Contact David on 01487 493012 for a free no obligation quote Email: sparkcontracting360@gmail.com Web: www.sparkcontracting.co.uk

Word Ladder

Change one letter at a time (but not the position of any letter) to make a new word - and move from the word at the top of the ladder to the word at the bottom, using the exact number of rungs provided.

B L U E

ŠPuzzlepress.co.uk

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P I N K

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Pets

Animal Heroes Being a cat foster carer Do you love cats? But, perhaps you feel too old to commit to owning another cat; you might be moving to a new house in the next year; or you’re worried that your job is a bit insecure? If, such reasons have stopped you – then you’re just the type of responsible cat lover that would make a great cat foster carer!

The RSPCA Bedfordshire North branch is a local charity experiencing a crisis in the number of animals that are coming into their care. The amount of animals abandoned, and neglected, has increased by 65% over the last 5 years – and in Bedfordshire, this terrible figure is predominantly made up of cats.

Cats come into our care for a number of reasons.

They may have been neglected by their owners and may need medical attention, they may simply have been abandoned when a person moves house or they may be handed in when their owner feels that they are no longer able to keep them.

The cats may be young and timid, elderly, injured or they may be newborn kittens that need handrearing. They may require fostering for two days, or several months, before they can be re-homed.

The most cost-effective way of temporarily caring for these cats is through a network of volunteer cat foster carers ¬– but we need many more volunteers to help the sheer number of cats requiring our help.

Could you satisfy your love of cats by becoming a cat foster carer? Angie is just one of our special volunteers. Here is her story: “I’ve been a foster carer for the RSPCA Bedfordshire North branch for a few years now and it’s a very rewarding role. There are always a variety of different animals that need a temporary, loving and caring home. All have their own different personalities and quirks and it’s so nice getting to know them – and know that you’re doing something worthwhile. Kitten season is always exciting, but comes with it’s own problems as there’s always numerous animals that get dumped at this time – from new-born and abandoned kittens that sometimes need hand-rearing, to pregnant cats.

Although it’s always sad to see them go, the best part is getting to see them re-homed – to hopefully move on and have a better and more promising life”.

If you’re interested in becoming a foster carer, please contact us for a chat on 01234 266965 or www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk. We need carers for cats and rabbits in particular, but also dogs and other animals. So, come on – be an animal hero and please give us a call!

ANIMAL HEROES is one of a series of articles brought to you by the RSPCA Bedfordshire North branch www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk

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29

Local News

Samaritans Cuts in many services can leave people wondering where they can turn when they are going through difficult times. Yet Samaritans continues to do what it has done for the last sixty years – to promise that there will be someone on hand, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. A service available for anyone in emotional distress. And that someone at the other end of the phone is a volunteer whose role is to do nothing more and nothing less than to listen.

“I’m not an expert counsellor – none of us are – but we aim to help people look at their options rather than tell them what to do,” says Ian, who runs Peterborough Samaritan’s training programme. While new recruits worry that they ‘won’t know what to say’, these fears are allayed through a ten-week course common to all Samaritans branches. Coming from all walks

of life, the qualities that unite the volunteers are acceptance, understanding and empathy.

“The power of such human contact is amazing” states Branch Director Dave, “and we are looking for new Samaritans to let us continue delivering this remarkable service”.

If you’d like to be there to listen, then you can attend the information mornings (held at 10am on the last Sunday of each month, apart from August and December, at 32 - 34 St Johns Street, Peterborough), or call John on: 07729 897135

EBAY COLLECTIONS

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Our award winning magazines offer a unique local advertising platform. Printed on high quality paper we are still able to offer incredible prices along with a second-to-none service, professional advert design and a team just waiting to help you.

With over 11000 copies being delivered door to door every month can your business wait any longer to be in The Villager?

Advertising in The Villager and Town Life could not be easier, for further information or to book your advertising space please call Nigel on 01767 261122 or e-mail nigel@villagermag.com or visit our website www.villagermag.com

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WOBURN FOREST HOLIDAY VILLAGE

Kids going to school in September?

Wondering how to fill your time?

Or are you simply wanting to get back into work?

Well look no further…

Apply now and you could be joining our friendly Housekeeping Team at the start of the new school term.

Our Housekeeping Department plays a key role ensuring our accommodation is maintained to a high standard and is the largest team on the village. We are looking for enthusiastic team players to join our busy Housekeeping team.

Housekeepers £6.86 per hour working 10am – 2.45pm on Mondays and Fridays or 18 .5 hours per week on a rota to include alternate weekends.

You will be required to conduct a full clean of our lodges and be responsible for up to 4 units of accommodation comprising Kitchen, Bedrooms etc. Accommodation is located throughout the Village reached by a maximum 15 minute walk or cycle.

Housekeepers on rota also provide a maid service.

The right candidate will be a team player, who can work on their own initiative and be willing to learn. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a team in a fast paced, quality environment.

Transport is available for some positions. For further details and to apply please visit: www.centerparcs.co.uk

At Center Parcs, we want our people to share in the success their hard work brings, enjoy a sense of wellbeing and a good lifestyle, and make the most of their time with us.

We offer unique benefits such as: • Discounted Center Parcs breaks • Day visitor passes • Free use of village facilities Along with more classic benefits such as profit share and management bonus schemes, life insurance cover, 30 days annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays) and company sick pay.

Center Parcs, Woburn Forest Holiday Village, Millbrook, Bedford, MK45 2HZ

www.centerparcs.co.uk 32

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Wildlife

Spiders from the Fork

By Andy Mydellton

Clearing up my workshop, I found myself within inches of a large coal-black spider. I jumped then gave myself a wry smile that this peaceful creature had startled me without any effort whatsoever.

Spiders take refuge in buildings for warmth, comfort and safety from other predators. During the worst months, only the hardiest and most successful hunters survive to pass on their genes in the spring.

This spider must have been one of those survivors.

The spiders that inhabit this particular corner of the world are only a small representation of the 30,000 or so species alive today. Many are cannibalistic, while others hunt insects and invertebrates. Various species spin different quality silks for their web. Their safety lines are able to bridge many yards of open space.

I did not have time to identify the workshop’s spider but it would have been one of the many that usually inhabit the garden including orb, money and house spiders.

One unusual type can be found in garden ponds.

Water spiders have a very different lifestyle to those found spinning webs in hedgerows and are fascinating to watch. To search for food, they create a bell-shaped bubble which they use to breathe underwater. It allows them to remain submerged for hunting forays into the deep.

Ted Hughes’ Tales from Ovid, the ‘Metamorphoses’ tells the story of Arachne, a humbly-born woman who challenged Minerva, Goddess of Weavers to a spinning contest. When Arachne won, angry Minerva transformed her and her descendants into spiders, doomed to spin forever and spiders became known as arachnids.

The true definition of an arachnid is that they have two distinct body segments with four pairs of jointed legs. Other members of the arachnid family include mites, ticks, horseshoe crabs and scorpions! Arachnids are different to insects that have three body parts and six legs.

For years pioneering scientists have been trying

to replicate spiders’ silk for its strength, durability and richness. Incredibly, it is five times harder than steel of the same thickness. Companies plan to use it for high grade items of clothing, personal protective equipment and engineering. It shows how much society values the spider’s natural fibre.

Part of the reason why scientists have found this substance impossible to replicate is because it is made of protein. When I catch a spider weaving its intricate web, I am amazed thinking about how such a small body can reconstitute its own natural liquid into an acid that it spins out as a hardened solid.

The initial stickiness of the web tethers invertebrates that have stumbled into it, long enough for the spider to race to its doomed prey. It then kills its victim and spins the corpse into a silken coffin to return and devour its meal at leisure. Over time, the web’s deathly silk gradually loses its glue-like qualities. So the spider simply recycles this protein-rich fibre by eating it and respinning.

Considering all this, we can see spiders not as household or workshop pests, but as truly magical animals instead.

Photography: Emma Porter

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33

Travel

A Holiday in

By Tim Saunders

East Sussex

Of the 100 or so castles in England, more than 30 are in the South East - historically this region has always been most vulnerable to attack from foreign shores.

When we stay at Castle Cottage in East Sussex, there are views towards the delightful Wadhurst Castle - complete and unusually, still lived in. “Does Rapunzel live there?” asks Harriett (4). Not quite, but it has been in the same family for over 50 years and is certainly the stuff of childhood dreams.

Castle Cottage shares its Regency architectural style.

Large sash windows let copious amounts of light in. From the bedrooms, there are not only views towards the castle but also the walled garden where those seeking an exclusive venue are married. These views towards the beautiful East Sussex countryside beyond are magical.

The cottage will accommodate six guests on a selfcatering basis. All mod cons including a dishwasher, washing machine and tumble dryer are included: extremely useful when travelling with little ones.

We all love this spacious, characterful house, which is finished to a high standard with elegant furnishings tastefully complementing the architecture. I am drawn to the bookcase where there are various leather-bound works by the greats.

It is easy to walk to the village of Wadhurst from the 140-acre working estate. It quickly becomes clear that not only is this part of the world extremely affluent but that it is pleasingly home to a high proportion of independent traders. You have to look hard to find a well-known supermarket chain and yet it is only an hour away from London.

Many guests visit the National Trust properties and there are a variety to choose from in this area including Sissinghurst Castle which comes highly recommended.

Only about half an hour away over the Kent border, the castle itself has a varied history including use as a prison in the 1700s. We all enjoy climbing the Elizabethan tower with its splendid views across the 450-acre estate, the magnificent gardens transformed by writer Vita Sackville-West and her diplomat author husband, Harold Nicolson, in the 1930s.

At Michelham Priory, we learn the important role it played in WW2 as a home to evacuees, British and Canadian forces as well as being a farm worked by land girls. There’s also a rope museum and a forge

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Harriet and Heidi run towards the Elizabethan Tower at Sissignhurt Castle which is still in use today. The priory has 800 years of history and includes England’s longest water-filled moat dating back to 1229.

Owned by Sussex Past, it is a great day out with lovely gardens, archery at weekends and art exhibitions throughout the year in conjunction with Creative Coverage. A display of plants used for medieval purposes in the physic garden is very interesting.

En route to Brighton, we stop off at the National Trust’s Sheffield Park and Gardens with historic park and woodland influenced by Capability Brown.

We have only just touched the surface of the wonders of East Sussex.

Tim Saunders is our regular travel writer. Visit his website at www.travelwriter.biz

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Flying Proms at Shuttleworth

Saturday 15 August 2015 Enjoy the Shuttleworth Collection’s vintage aircraft displaying to a backdrop of classical music performed by the 50-piece National Symphony Orchestra. This year also features a trio of spitfires and a thrilling firework display finale.

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Reg Charity No 307534

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Codeword 1

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ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Suduko

Hard Suduko

Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repetition. Use your logic to solve the puzzles.

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37

n O s ’ t Wha In August

Deadline for What’s On entries is the 12th of the previous month.

1 August Art & Craft Fair 9.30am-4pm Free Church, St Ives Free admission Quality handmade art and craft stalls and tombola.

1 August Roxton Flower Show 3pm Parish Hall An array of vegetables, fruit, flowers, cakes and preserves, also photography, craft and children’s classes.

Tel: Mary Pike 01480 212552 Email: mary@jackpike.co.uk 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 August Parkrun 9am Wimpole Estate Weekly free 5k timed run.

Web: parkrun.org.uk/wimpoleestate 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 August Outdoors Yoga 9am Wimpole Estate £8 Tel: Rebecca Agouropoulos 07740 067186 Email: becxster79@hotmail.com 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 August Kingfisher Church 10.30am Little Paxton Primary School Every Sunday – all welcome! Services include children’s groups and a crèche. Refreshments served. Tel: 01480 700434 Web: www.kingfisherchurch.co.uk 3, 10, 17 & 31 August Comrades Chess Club 7.30pm Comrades Club, Godmanchester Keep your mind active and play chess. Over 18s only as it’s a licensed premises.

Every Monday except Bank Holidays.

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3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 August Scottish Country Dancing 8-10pm Queen Elizabeth School, Godmanchester Huntingdon & District Caledonian Society weekly Scottish Country Dancing for fun, friendship and fitness. You don’t have to be Scottish and you don’t need a partner as we take turns to dance with each other. May-Sept is at Queen Elizabeth Hall, Godmanchester and Sept-May is at Little Stukeley Village Hall.

Come along and give it a try! Please check if running on Bank Holiday.

Tel: Mrs Pat Crowe 01480 453774 email: pat@ patcrowe.plus.com Tel: Mr Hedley Goodman 01733 350185 hedley@goodman2.plus.com 3, 13 & 19 August Heavy horse driving course for beginners Wimpole Estate Adults £125 Have you ever wondered what it would be like to spend a day with magnificent Shire horses?

The course begins with grooming the shires followed by harnessing through to taking the reins driving a one horse cart through the Park.

At the end of the day, if you don’t want to rush away, you can help stable and feed the horses.

Booking essential.

4, 11, 18 & 25 August Scrabble Club 2.30-4pm Huntingdon Library Free drop in session Every Tuesday. Come along for a game of Scrabble (or chess or draughts!) in this friendly and informal session. Adults only please. No need to book.

Tel: 0345 045 5225 for more information

6 August The Ladybird Boat Trust: EngAGE in the Afternoon 1.30-3pm Huntingdon Library Join us for a talk by the Ladybird Trust. A local charity providing free river trips along the Great Ouse for groups of disabled, elderly or disadvantaged people in a very special boat, The Ladybird. Places are limited - please see library staff or telephone to reserve a free ticket.

Tel: 0345 045 5225 6, 13, 20 & 27 August Bingo Doors open 7.30pm, Eyes down 8pm Little Paxton Village Hall Do you enjoy a game of bingo? If so come along to Lt Paxton Village Hall Cash Bingo.

Every Thursday night. Raffle and refreshments at interval. Sorry only 18+ can play.

Tel: Eddie 01480 475265 for more information 7 August Shaun The Sheep Movie (U) 5pm for 5.30pm start Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Adults £4, Over 60 £3, Under 16 £2 Kimbolton Community Cinema Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Refreshments and free popcorn. Tickets from Watson’s, Yellow Bird, Bytes or on the door.

7, 14, 21 & 28 August Tai Chi 4-5pm Wimpole Hall £6 per session Every Friday from 6 March.

Tel: Mike Tabrett 01223 503390 to book Email: mike@gret-heron.com

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n O s ’ t Wha In August 12 August Cambridgeshire Rural M.E. Tea & Chat 2-4pm Monthly meet-up for adults with M.E. (and partners/friends). The group meets on the second Wednesday of the month. All details including latest meeting information can be found on the website. Web: www.crMEtea.org 15 August Sandy Show Saturday 12-5pm Sandye Place Academy, Park Road, Sandy Admission £1, Accompanied children free Annual Sandy & District Horticultural Show.

Punch & Judy show, bouncy castle, fair rides, animal encounters, local craft stalls, outside bar and refreshments. Main Hall from 12.30p.m - Exhibits of prize winning produce, including floral art, blooms, vegetables, baking, preserves, home brewing, art work, woodwork, knitting, crotchet, etc., along with classes for children’s entries. Prize presentations at 4.30pm by Max McMurdo (Dragons Den). Show schedules available online or from High Street Crafts, Sandy Library, Glenn’s Farm Shop.

Web: www.thesandyshow.org.uk for more information 15 August St Neots & District Gardening Club Annual Summer Show Open to visitors 2pm Eaton Socon Community Hall 19 August Carers Coffee Club 2.30-4pm The White Horse, High Street, Tilbrook Are you caring for a loved one with a memory loss? Then come along and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee whilst chatting with others in a similar situation. Our informal group meets on every third Wednesday of the month. No need to book, just turn up. Hope to see you there.

Tel: Neil Silby 07889 319888 for further details Email: kimpigfarmer@tiscali.co.uk

20 August Third Thursday Guided Nature Walks 10.30am-12.30pm Paxton Pits Nature Reserve £2.50 Friends of Paxton Pits Nature Reserve. No need to book - pay on the day.

21 August Paddington (PG) 7pm for 7.30pm start Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Adults £4, Over 60 £3, Under 16 £2 Kimbolton Community Cinema Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Refreshments and free popcorn. Tickets from Watson’s, Yellow Bird, Bytes or on the door.

21 August Of Horses and Men Doors open 7.30pm, film starts 8pm Screen St Ives, Corn Exchange, St Ives Directed by Benedikt Erlingsson (Iceland), 2013. 80 mins Cert 15. This is a love story like you’ve never seen before. Of Horses and Men is a wonderfully dark comedy set in a windswept valley in Iceland. The stakes are high as passion and revenge rampage through the small horse-breeding community. Spying on the neighbours is just one of their interests!

Web: www.screenstives.org.uk 29-31 August Cambridge District Art Circle Summer Exhibition 10.30am-5.30pm Grantchester Village Hall The Exhibition will have both framed and unframed work, as well as cards. It will be an ideal opportunity for visitors to buy original art from local professional and amateur artists, in a variety of subjects and media including oils, acrylics, watercolours, mixed media and pastels. The adjoining ValPatisserie will be serving home-made cakes (including gluten-free).

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

30 August Roxton Fete 12.30-6pm Roxton Playing Field, Park Road, Roxton Adults £1, Children 50p Under 5s free Attractions include Open Dog Show, Bouncy Castle, Games, Classic Cars, Stalls, Teas and Bar. 2 September Little Paxton Gardening Club 8pm Little Paxton Village Hall Members £1, Guests £2 Sue Stephenson will talk about Wild Flowers, Meadows and Hardy plants. Refreshments provided. All welcome - please come along.

3, 10, 17 & 24 September Bingo Doors open 7.30pm, Eyes down 8pm Little Paxton Village Hall Do you enjoy a game of bingo? If so come along to Lt Paxton Village Hall Cash Bingo.

Every Thursday night. Raffle and refreshments at interval. Sorry only 18+ can play.

Tel: Eddie 01480 475265 for more information 4-6 September Eleventh Annual Beer and Cider Festival Fri 6-11pm, Sat noon-11pm, Sun noon10.30pm Toft People’s Hall Free entry Toft Social Club. Only £2.40 pint! Thirteen real ales; mostly from brewers in a 25 mile radius, and three ‘real’ local ciders. Snacks on sale throughout the event. Meals available early evening on Saturday and Sunday lunchtime.

Gluten free beer and food available. Live music Saturday and Sunday evenings.

Tel: 01223 263359 Web: www.toftsocialclub.org.uk

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G.B.BUILDERS NO JOB TOO SMALL FOR ALL MAINTENANCE, RENOVATIONS AND DIY WORK

K. Cooper Motors MOT'S REPAIRS SERVICING TYRES EXHAUSTS BATTERIES

All general building repairs and odd jobs Specialist in Painting and Decorating & Groundwork and Grass cutting • Brickwork & Plastering Tiling Driveways • Paths & Patios Slabbing • Concreting Blockpaving • Fencing, Carpentry • Roofing Guttering • Drainage Plumbing

Call today 07877742420 or 01480 437511 Email: g.bbuilders@yahoo.co.uk

01487 830643 68 Green End Road Sawtry. PE28 5UY kcoopermotors@tiscali.co.uk

RICHARD KENYON MASTER THATCHER

Of Bluntisham, Cambridge

T: 01487 843377 M: 07873 549872 E: richardkenyon_1@hotmail.com Richard Kenyon 1/2 page advert.indd 40

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08/05/2015 16:12 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Crossword Solution for The Villager July Edition Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Pauline Mullarkey from Cambourne

July’s Codeword and Suduko Solutions

Easy

Hard

Advertising in The Villager is easy.

To find out more call Nigel on 01767 261122 or email nigel@villagermag.com To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

41

The Villager Prize Crossword

Prize

ÂŁ25

Across 1 Make a choice (6) 4 Railings (6) 9 Enlarged (7) 10 Headgear (5) 11 Home planet (5) 12 Citrus fruits (7) 13 Rural area (11) 18 Leaving (7) 20 Answer (5) 22 Devoured (5) 23 Closest (7) 24 Withstand (6) 25 Narrow river (6) Down 2 Singing group (5) 3 Sea mammal (7) 5 Surplus (5) 6 Altered (7)

Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this page and send to the address below before

14th August 2015 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP



1 Remove doubt (6)

7 Scarce (6) 8 Supporting (11) 14 Not included (7) 15 Butler or maid (7) 16 Remove (6) 17 Scheme (6) 19 Not outer (5) 21 Portion (5)

Name: Tel: Address:

42

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To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

43

AJC Window Cleaning Traditional and Reach & Wash System Domestic and Commercial Services

DON’T GIVE UP ON YOUR EXISTING DOUBLE GLAZING

All Repairs Carried Out On UPVC, Aluminium Or Timber Windows and Doors, Including: Glass Misted Up Or Broken, Handles Or Hinges, Door or Window Locks, Cat Flaps, Letter Plates and Door Panels Fitted.

Conservatories also repaired/cleaned.

Gutter Cleaning

Free Quotes Tel: 07897 338 167

Email: ajcwindowcleaning@live.com

www.ajcwindowcleaning.co.uk

all No Ct u O e Charg

Tel: 01480 462948 Mobile: 07973 682562

Email: cst.dgrepairs@googlemail.com www.cstupvcrepair.co.uk

FLOORED

By Ian

Light Haulage & Removals House & Office Removals Collections/Deliveries

Your local supplier of fitted floors in carpet, vinyl, laminate or Karndean Free visits to estimate or advise.

Best prices and quality with a friendly service.

Enquiries to 01480 475486 or (Mobile) 07876 238308

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Free Quotes Luton Tail-lift Van Covering all of the UK Fully Insured Service No Extra Charge for Evenings/Weekends

Call Trevor

Tel: 07782 359050 Email: trevor_trs@yahoo.co.uk

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Russell Grant’s

Horoscopes

AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th Responsibilities at work increase in early August. You actually enjoy presiding over a big project. This would be a wonderful time to go back to education and get an advanced degree.

PISCES February 20th - March 20th The second half of August proves very productive, when you’re able to team up with a creative colleague. The Full Moon on the 29th prompts you to attend to needs that aren’t being met by a partner.

ARIES March 21st - April 20th Resist the urge to rush an intimate relationship in the opening days of August. The Full Moon on the 29th will bring a shocking secret to light.

TAURUS April 21st - May 21st It will be easier to get help from your best friend, lover, or business partner in the early days of August. The New Moon on the 14th could prompt you to make changes to your domestic routine.

GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st Travelling with a group will be lots of fun in the beginning of August. The second half of August is perfect for expanding your home or finding a bigger place to live.

CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd Your self-esteem will be low in the opening days of August. Don’t be surprised if you get a raise or are awarded a lucrative job.

LEO July 24th - August 23rd Resist the urge to talk about your private life with family in the beginning of August. Focus on living beneath your means.

The money you save will sustain you through lean times.

VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd An intimate relationship will give you tremendous pleasure in early August. If you’re not in a relationship, this is the perfect time to find romance. Be sure to negotiate a raise in the second half of August, when your powers of persuasion will be at an all-time high.

LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd A festive party gives early August a glamorous feel. The New Moon on the 14th is perfect for joining a humanitarian organisation.

The Full Moon on the 29th brings a health problem to light.

SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd Prepare to face off with an overambitious authority figure on the 3rd. The second half of August proves quite sociable.

Be sure to attend as many parties as possible.

Spending time with friends helps put your life in a healthier perspective.

SAGITTARIUS November 23rd - December 21st Don’t question your abilities in early August. Your leadership ability will be applauded on the 23rd, when you’re put in charge of an important project. The Full Moon on the 29th prompts you to spend more time on domestic pursuits.

CAPRICORN December 22nd - January 20th Friends will help with heavy responsibilities at the beginning of August.

Opportunities to travel, write and study will arise on or around the 11th. If you get a chance to expand your horizons, seize it.

Please To advertise mention in The TheVillager Villagerand andTownlife Town Life please whencall responding 01767 261122 to adverts

45

• Wood Burning Stoves • Multi Fuel Stoves • Chimney Lining • Twin Wall Flue Systems • Installation and Supply • Fireplace Renovations • Stove Accessories • Trade Sales

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN Friday, Saturday & Monday – 10am—5pm Other Days/Out of hours by prior arrangement

Unit 2 Home Farm Court, The Street, Diddington, St Neots, PE19 5XT info@cromwellstoves.co.uk 01480 812281 | 07786 854946

www.cromwellstoves.co.uk

Cromwell stoves 1/4 page.indd 1

10/02/2015 08:33

Plumbing & Heating Specialists

Boiler ● Servicing ● Repair ● Replacement

● General Plumbing ● Heating ● Bathrooms

We accept debit and credit cards 46

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Books

Book Review

By Bruce Edwards

Pet Services

Missing Reels

Farran Smith Nehme

Pub: Duckworth h/b £16.99 ISBN: 978-0-7156-4990-9 It’s far too easy to stay wrapped up in frothy ‘here today, gone tomorrow’ quick reads taken off the cheapy piles in your nearest chain-store book shop or downloaded at next-to- no cost from one of the ever present e-book providers. So here is something entirely different. Quoted as ‘screwball comedy wedded to a gothic novel’ this has to be taken with the pinch of salt - perhaps so unbelievably impossible and way-out it could only be set against an American backdrop.

Ceinwen - such a nice Welsh name - takes an hour and a half to get ready for an evening out in 1980’s Manhattan, and at the same time becomes involved with Matthew who’s very British.

She goes to the movies, as one does. It’s a life changing act - and to find one missing piece of an ancient reel starts her on a very involved search.

Conversationally rich, descriptive on a frame-byframe basis, it’ll keep you chuckling from end to end, and tell you more about that era than you ever thought possible. As there’s something about proper film that inspires romance, how could she possibly like something that falls into the category of ‘cgi’ - computer generated imagery, i.e. a digitalised production? Early cellulose can be a very difficult film stock to handle - but our expert author does it very well. Worth searching for.

Removals, Delivery & Storage For All Your Storage, Delivery and Removal Requirements Based in Alconbury Weston Freephone - 0800 689 0894

Use your local removal company

Tony Webb - 07850 293540 Lee Eastlake - 07906 072096 www.move-plus-safe.co.uk

Suggestion and queries to: writerselect@gmail. com. We’re always happy to consider specific titles for review, though without obligation.

Can’t find a title? E-mail your details and we’ll try to help.”

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47

Getting the balance right for a faster sale Price your home too high and it will take longer to sell.

Too low and you’ll lose money. We won’t flatter you with an over-inflated valuation or sell you short.

not all estate agents are the same..

Contact us today on 01480 860600, or visit www.simpsonandpartners.co.uk