VILLAGER The
Issue 14 - May 2013
and Town
Life
LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS
Covering: Alconbury • Grafham • Kimbolton • Riseley The Stukeleys and all surrounding areas
ur Yo EE y FRco1 p
2
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
VILLAGER
In this Issue
The
and Town
Issue 14 - May 2013
Life
LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS
4 Wildlife Wanderings By Christine Donnelly
Covering: Alconbury • Grafham • Kimbolton • Riseley The Stukeleys and all surrounding areas
6
ur Yo EE y FRco1 p
Advertising Sales Christa Hallam Tel: 07868 369257 Christa@villagermag.com
Tennis at Kimbolton
Additional Editorial Christine Donnelly, Roy Butler, Tony Larkins and Susan Brookes-Morris
Prize Crossword
By Roy Butler
28
£25 could be yours!
The Kimbolton Country Fayre...............................................9 Front Cover Photo: Pstit
Hunts Breathe For Life.......................................................... 11
Design and Artwork Design 9 - Tel 07762 969460
Preservation or Investment Growth................................ 15
Island Reserve.......................................................................... 13
Publishers Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 261122 Email:nigel@villagermag.com
VILLAGER The
and Town Life
Disclaimer
7 Myths Retailers May Tell You........................................... 18 May Day..................................................................................... 20 Puzzle Page............................................................................... 24 What’s On.................................................................................. 26 8,000 copies delivered free of charge to all homes in the following areas: Abbots Ripton, Alconbury, Alconbury Weston, Barham, Broughton, Brington, Buckworth, Bythorn, Catworth, Coppingford, Covington, Easton, Ellington, Grafham, Great Staughton, Hail Weston, Hargrave, Keysoe, Keyston, Kimbolton, Kings Ripton, Leighton Bromswold, Little Staughton, Lower Dean, Melchbourne, Molesworth, Old Weston, Perry, Pertenhall,
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.
Riseley, Shelton, Spaldwick, Stonley, Stow Longa, Swineshead, The Stukeleys, Tillbrook, Upper Dean, Upton, Woolley, Yelden. (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.)
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
3
WILDLIFE WANDERINGS
WILDLIFE TRAVEL, BY CHRISTINE DONNELLY May is the favourite month for many gardeners and it is also the best month for seeing much of our local wildlife. If you take a walk in the countryside, or even in town, you will hear many different species of birds singing and may see their displays. Nightingales are now quite rare in this part of Cambridgeshire but several other birds also have beautiful songs so listen out for blackcaps and garden warblers which have just arrived for the summer. Our resident birds are also in full song, one of the loudest being the song thrush. Many people are surprised that other familiar birds such as blackbirds and robins also have lovely songs, and as they are easy to see they are helpful to those beginning to learn bird song! Waterside reeds are the summer home of sedge and reed warblers, and even if you can’t see them, you can enjoy their noisy chatter. Several dragonflies are ‘on the wing’ in May, including some smaller species, known as damselflies. The flying adults normally live only a few weeks having emerged from an underwater larval life that may have lasted a few years. Their quick flight makes them difficult to see but look for them resting on leaves, including lily pads. More than a dozen species can be seen locally, distinguished by their colourful markings.
Large red damselfly Local grasslands vary in their character from wet meadows, chalky pastures and sandy heaths. Although the latter usually have a richer wildlife later in the year, sites such as Gamlingay Cinques are worth visiting in spring to see the bright yellow gorse and the delicate blue harebell, a type of campanula. For a taste of summer, join the Wildlife Trust on the 8th of May for their Dusk Watch at Woodwalton Fen. Summer is here on the islands in the south of Britain and just starting on more northerly isles. May is a wonderful time to visit the Isles of Scilly, off Cornwall’s coast. These tranquil islands are famous for their ‘sub-tropical’ climate and you can see why when you visit the fascinating gardens at Tresco or see the fields of naturalised gladioli
4
or take a boat ride to the outer isles to see the birdlife and seals. Ireland is more famous for its culture than its wildlife but it has internationally important sites for nesting seabirds and botanical rarities. The Burren, in the far west, is a stunning limestone landscape that has a rare community of plants including spring gentian, dense-flowered orchid and mountain avens which grow elsewhere in alpine, arctic or Mediterranean areas but, here, can be seen against the magical background of ancient tombs and Celtic crosses.
‘Bloody’ cranesbill, the Burren May is also an important month for Europe’s few remaining areas of wilderness, particularly in the east where vast tracts of forests and wetlands survive as refuges for wildlife that was once common over much of the continent, including Britain. Poland’s Bialowieza Forest, Romania’s Danube Delta and the Carpathian Mountains are home to many species including brown bear, wolf and lynx. The Delta contains numerous lakes and channels that provide breeding sites for large flocks of pelicans, terns, herons and many other waterbirds as well as amphibians, reptiles and otter.
Pelicans, Danube Delta, Romania Wildlife Travel has been running holidays to all of these destinations and others worldwide for 25 years. Contact them on 01954 713575 or check www.wildlife-travel.co.uk. For information on local wildlife contact The Wildlife Trust on 01954 713500 or visit www.wildlifebcn.org.
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
Bank Holiday
Monday Markets
St Ives
6th and 27th May
8am~3pm Wide variety of stalls Children’s entertainment
~+~ Street food • Fabrics • Plants Knitwear • Bird tables • Jewellery Pet food • Handbags • Bread Fruit and Veg • Books • Olives • Fashions ~◊~
~ 5 minutes walk from the guided bus park and ride ~ www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk/markets
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
5
TENNIS AT KIMBOLTON
By ROY BUTLER
Are you interested in joining Kimbolton Tennis Club ? Tennis has been played at Kimbolton for more than a hundred and forty years. In the early days playing surfaces were very irregular and the erratic bounce was probably as crucial as the skill of the players. Wooden racquets gave less help than modern equipment and ladies’ mobility must have been severely handicapped by long skirts and tight corsets. In 1877 the Reverend Robert Kater Vinter, Headmaster of Kimbolton School, described the provision of a tennis court behind where the Preparatory School now stands. In 1907 Lady Chelsea, while visiting the Duke of Manchester at the Castle, organised a children’s tournament and played games with the other guests. At the Vicarage, the Reverend Powys Maurice played in many social gatherings and tournaments, with other leading village figures. In June 1925 a Garden Fete at the Vicarage featured a tennis tournament. Thirty couples took part, a number which was considered disappointing because ‘many players from Bedford and Rushden were suffering from the effects of vaccination’. The preliminary rounds were played at four venues, namely the courts at the Castle, the Vicarage, Kimbolton School and the Tollfield village club, with the final taking place at the Vicarage. At different times villagers marked out their
6
courts in various places, including the cricket field and Tollfield. Tennis, like most village activities was abandoned during the war years, but revived with more peaceful times. Several Kimbolton residents remember playing on a court in the Park in the 1950s. Matches were even arranged against similar groups from such places as Fen Ditton, Abbots Ripton and Abbotsley. When the Kimbolton Senior School moved to the Castle in 1950, grass tennis courts were soon provided. In 1972 these were succeeded by hard courts, financed by money from fund-raising events organised by the school parents’ society. A Club for parents was formed and matches and tournaments followed. By opening membership to non-School players numbers rose to over a hundred. In 1995 play moved to the new Astroturf courts, and although direct connection with the parents’ society ceased, tennis continued for the officially renamed Kimbolton Tennis Club. If the village players of over a century ago could see the advanced equipment, playing surface and tennis clothing of today, they would surely be amazed, but might well conclude that the enjoyment of playing the game has changed little. If you and your family would like to join Kimbolton Tennis Club you would be very welcome. We play friendly, social tennis to a reasonable standard at a very competitive cost. For more details phone me on 01480 861007 and help continue the long history of tennis at Kimbolton.
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
7
8
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
The kimbolton country fayre
sunday 14th july 2013 CLASSIC CAR SPECTACULAR AND COUNTRY FAYRE Held in the beautiful grounds of Kimbolton Castle Not only will there be more than 800 classic cars on show to the public, but many more attractions for the whole family, young and old alike. Amongst the features this year will be: The amazing Flyin’-Ryan (new this year) Live civil war battle with guns, horses and lots of soldiers Millers Ark pet zoo (new this year) Carousel Traditional Rides Dog agility displays The Galaxy Big Band and Lindyhop dancers
Visit us and try our fantastic, new American Menu. Now taking bookings for Fathers Day. Call for menu details. Test you brainpower in our monthly pub quiz held on the first Tuesday of the month. The fun starts at 9pm.
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Flypast Over 80 stalls Food court (new this year) Beer and tea marques For all the latest news and added attractions, why not check out our website www. kimboltoncountryfayre.com
Beverley & Will have taken over The Three Compasses, Upper Dean. Will is American and brings an American flair to a traditional pub.
The Three Compasses now features; » Real ales with regular guest ales » Selection of quality wines by the bottle and by the glass » Takeaway food available Tues - Sat » Mobile phone top up » Functions catered for » Meeting area
Join us for our very popular American Pancake Breakfast. Two sittings - 10am and 11am. Book now to avoid disappointment.
MON 6pm - 11:20pm TUES-SAT 12noon-3pm & 6pm - 11:20pm SUN 12noon - 4pm & 7pm - 10:50pm
MON-TUE 6pm-9pm WED-SAT 12noon - 2:30pm & 6pm - 9pm SUN 12noon - 3pm
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
9
CharacterOak_0513.pdf
1
14/03/2013
12:23
German couple from Bremen looking for a student exchange with a British family for their 15 year old son for a 2 or 3-week period during the summer holidays.
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Handcrafted oak fire surrounds, beams & furniture. Add a unique touch to your home.
If interested please contact Jutta on 01480 896846.
www.character-oak.co.uk Email: info@character-oak.co.uk Telephone: 07759 122999
Esther Hewson Interior Design
Interior design Spatial planning Individual rooms or projects Themed children’s spaces Wallcoverings/paints Soft furnishings Finishing touches
Tel: 07581 426217 Email: info@ehid.co.uk Website: www.estherhewsoninteriordesign.co.uk 10
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
LOoking
FOR NEW RECRUITS Hunts Breathe for Life is a local support group for people suffering from lung disease along with their carers/family. The charity is urgently seeking to recruit volunteers to help in a number of areas including organising local fund raising events, awareness campaigns, or helping out with the general day to day activities associated with the overall running of the club. There are as many as 40 different lung diseases and it is estimated that around 1 in 7 of the population suffer from some form of lung condition – many of whom have not yet been diagnosed. The majority of lung conditions result in the patient suffering from varying degrees of breathlessness. This imposes severe restrictions upon the individual’s ability to carry out even the most minor form of physical activity, which ultimately results in feelings of frustration, anxiety, distress and ultimately isolation. With the rising number of lung sufferers in the area it is vital that Hunts Breathe for Life continues to provide adequate support to lung sufferers. To achieve this we rely on volunteers to continue our vital work. To become a volunteer and get involved with the group you don’t need any previous experience or special skills. Just as long as you are committed and enthusiastic then you are a perfect candidate. There is no age limit and you are more than welcome whether you would like to help out on a regular basis, or irregular as and when required – for example helping with fund raising activities and awareness campaigns. Volunteering can not only be great fun but can also prove to be rewarding, an opportunity to make new friends and develop new skills, as training will be provided. The charity will be holding a Recruitment Day on Tuesday 14th May at the Maple Centre, Sapley Square, Huntingdon from 11.00 am to 3.00 pm when we will be looking to fill a number of volunteer roles in those areas mentioned above. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer with Hunts Breathe for Life and would like to find out more about the group and how you could be of help to us then this event will be an ideal opportunity to do so. We very much look forward to seeing you there. If you are unable to attend or have any other questions you would like to discuss then please contact the number below:For further details, please contact Elizabeth Waldock on 01480 860 289
®
safelocaltrades.com Recommended & Appro ed
Not sure who to trust? Need a recommendation?
...see our recommended list, with local feedback WINNER
The award-winning Best New Business Idea 2008 www.safelocaltrades.com is your trusted website for highly recommended and LOCALLY recognised tradesmen in YOUR area – providing peace of mind and an excellent service. All members are CRB checked, vetted and approved, have agreed to abide by a Service Charter and are monitored on an on-going basis. of
Our aim is to protect YOU from cowboy and rogue traders. in association with …
Peterborough Neighbourhood and Home Watch Looking out for the community
Just go to …
www.safelocaltrades.com or phone 0800 014 1832
The safest way to source a local tradesman
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
11
12
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
ISLAND RESERVE
OPENS FOR NEW SEASON From 29 March Holt Island Nature reserve will be open at weekends and Bank Holidays from 10am to 4pm until September (at all other times of the year the key is available from One Leisure St Ives or the Norris Museum). The Friends of Holt Island Nature Reserve, and volunteers managed by Paul Claydon, Countryside Services Ranger for Huntingdonshire District Council have continued to work throughout the long, cold and very wet weather to upkeep the reserve. Ian Jackson, Chair of the Friends group said: “I have been delighted that despite the dreadful conditions, the volunteers have progressed so well with the replacement hut. We have also erected two new interpretation boards, and installed bike stands. It is wonderful that the island will be open in time for Easter!” As the weather still isn’t great for encouraging people out and about the Friends are looking ahead to better times. On Friday 31 May there will be a Family Fun Day in conjunction with the Norris
Photograph by Ian Jackson
Museum – double the fun with activities galore. Make sure you add it to your diary now. The Island Reserve is a wonderful green oasis in the heart of the town. Residents and visitors are invited to experience the peace and tranquility, and to look to see if any of the birdboxes, currently up for adoption, have any residents. Email Robin Waters at robin.waters@rswgeomatics.com or phone 01480 386 644 for more details about ADOPTABOX.
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
13
Brampton Chiropractic Clinic 84 High Street, Brampton PE28 4TH DR NEIL BROE, DC and Assoc Registered with the General Chiropractic Council Members of the British Chiropractic Association Over 30 years experience A gentle but specific form of manipulation. Treating the cause of the problem ..... so often the answer • Back, Hip and Leg Pain • Headaches, Migraines • Cranial Therapy • Sinuses • Neck, Arm and Shoulder Pain • Muscle Ligament and Tendon Injuries • Paediatric Care
01480 436435
10% discount on initial visit www.brampton-chiropracticclinic.co.uk BUPA and PPP registered Also at: Manor Lodge, Barham Road, Buckworth PE28 5AQ Tel 01480 891539
Absolutely ... Positively ... NO pressure to sell! We give you FREE VALUATIONS .... YOU DECIDE !
WE PAY
CASH Cambridge Coins and Jewellery Coins, Medals, Banknotes, Tokens, Postcards.
Anything GOLD any SILVER....even broken jewellery!
Buying and selling old Coins, Military Medals, Tokens, Banknotes and bullion ...as well as Jewellery.
52 High Street // Biggleswade // Beds // SG18 0LJ // (Opposite “The Codfather”) Open Wednesday to Saturday. 11am to 7pm
t: 01767 600 300 e: shop@cambridgecoins.co.uk 14
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
Preservation or
Investment Growth It was interesting last week, when Jeremy Sallis from BBC Radio Cambridgeshire, called into the office to interview the team about working for an award winning local company. It was also interesting that he should ask the same question more than once: “How much pressure and responsibility do you feel, making investment decisions, about so much of other people’s money?” The answer given by each team member was: ‘it is a huge responsibility and there can never be complacency, but the process is robust, repeatable and fully documented.’ (OK, they didn’t all say exactly the same –but that was the essence of each reply!) In addition, all the senior management have their own funds in one or more of the portfolios, so we all have a responsibility to each other. Although our model portfolios have grown by over 10% in the last 12 months, we take, and encourage our clients to take, a low risk approach wherever possible. We place a lot of store in low volatility and outperformance (called ‘beta’ for those in the know). A large proportion of our clients have money which they want to see grow, but also need to ensure their capital is preserved. To chase high returns means taking more risk and whilst some of our clients need high growth (which we can accommodate), a decision needs to be made: - preservation and growth, or higher risk
Tony Larkins CFP APFS Managing Director / IFA Chartered and Certified Financial Planner
with a greater potential for a decrease. Having said this, our 5 ethical portfolios grew by over 13% for the year ending 28/3/13. (Past performance is no guarantee of future performance.) Much of our work involves arranging pensions, annuities and ISA’s as well as care fees planning, but more clients are now asking us to review existing pensions and investments, where their funds have not been reviewed/or changed to reflect the ever changing financial environment. I am sure that with more than 20% of advisers ceasing to trade during the last 12 months, more advisers like us will be seeing clients who have not received the quality of service they should have. There is still excellent growth potential available, so I urge you to seek out an adviser who offers a pro-active service. Of course, if your adviser already does this to your satisfaction, hold on to them! As the owner of a growing business, I have seen there are fewer good advisers around, and many now limit taking on new clients, as it affects their service capabilities to existing clients. Our growth is demand driven, and fortunately our new offices will allow for extra staff. 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
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
15
16
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
17
7 myths
that retailers may tell you
Some traders will tell you anything to make you go away, rather than just give you your money back. Here are some of the most common things traders will tell you: 1. “Verbal contract? It’s not worth the paper it’s written on”. This is not true. Verbal contracts are legally binding. 2. “No refunds on sale items” This sign is so common in shops. Whether they can do this or not depends on why the goods were on sale. If they were reduced in price because of a fault that was either pointed out to you or that you could have been ‘reasonably’ expected to notice before you bought it, then you are not entitled to a refund. But, if it was just on special offer or in the January sales, you are entitled to get your money back if it turns out to have a fault, to have been inaccurately described, or not fit for the purpose that it was sold for. 3. “We don’t offer refunds - you must accept a credit note” If you buy goods that turn out to be faulty, the law says that the contract you made when you bought those goods has been broken by the seller. You are therefore entitled to cancel the contract (as long as you have acted within a reasonable amount of time) and get a full refund. 4. “We can’t do anything without a receipt”. There is no legal obligation for shops to even give you a receipt, let alone for you to keep it.
18
Shops should accept any proof of purchase, like a bank statement or credit card bill (if you paid by credit or debit card). If you paid in cash and have not kept the receipt, you may have difficulty proving that you bought the item. 5. “It is not my fault if it doesn’t work. Make a complaint to the manufacturer.” It is the person who sold you the goods with whom you have made a contract. They are therefore responsible for dealing with any problems, and not the manufacturer. 6. “It was fine when I sold it to you. You must have broken it!” If something breaks and you inform the trader within six months of purchase it is the trader’s duty to prove that the item had no fault at the time it was sold to you. If you have had the item for over 6 months it is your duty to prove the fault was present at the time of purchase. 7. “If you have a complaint you will have to bring it back to the shop and we’ll discuss it” No matter what the size or weight of the goods it is technically always the seller’s duty to collect faulty items. If it is simply a case of you having changed your mind, you do not have these automatic rights but many traders will come and collect large or unwieldy items from you in the interests of customer service. For more information and advice visit consumer champion and legal expert Dean Dunham’s website www.youandyourrights.com
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
The Smart choice for body repairs
body shop Vehicle repairs * Express * Alloy wheel refurbishment Same day repair * Free estimates Insurance*claims * *
Call us now on: 01480 407969 / 07734 145062 9 Chester Road, Colmworth Business Park, Eaton Socon, St Neots, Cambs PE19 8YT
web: www.getsmartexpress.co.uk / email: info@getsmartexpress.co.uk
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
19
MAY DAY
By Susan Brookes-Morris May Day is celebrated on the first Monday of the month. It originates from village celebrations marking the coming of summer. The following traditions often take place amongst a day of festivities: Maypoles are hung with greenery and ribbons and painted brightly. Local children dress in their finest clothes, with bells and flower garlands, and perform traditional ribbon dances such as Gypsy Tent and The Spiders Web. Originally maypoles were made by villagers using a young tall tree. They stripped off the lower branches, but left leaves at the top to symbolise new life, and then decorated it with flowers and ribbons. The Crowning of the May Queen is linked to the honouring of Flora the Roman goddess of fruit and flowers. Traditionally she took no part in games or dancing, but sat like a queen in a flowerdecked chair to watch her ‘subjects.’ Morris dancing is a traditional form of English folk
20
dancing carried out by groups known as sides. Dances are passed down through generations, and involve movements to accentuate the tinkling of bells attached to costumes and coming together to strike wooden sticks. Loud accordion music accompanies the dancing. Sometimes dancers paint their faces black, and this association with the North African Moors may explain the origins of the name ‘Morris’ dancing.
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
Business gone slow? Let us help!
Advertising in The Villager is easy. To find out more call Christa on 07868 369257 or email christa@villagermag.com
Can I go to the Paddocks for my Holiday please?
Paddocks Boarding Cattery Peaceful location. No dogs boarded. Spacious, individual, heated chalets with large covered runs. Inspection welcome. Boarding from ÂŁ6.60/day. Rabbits/guinea pigs also boarded. 64 Meadow Road, Great Gransden
Telephone 01767 677 759 www.catterybedfordshire.co.uk Open all year.
The cattery for caring owners. Comfort and security for your pet. To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
21
FLOORED By Ian
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
22
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
23
CODEWORD
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
9 X 9 PUZZLE
How to play It’s simple! 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 puzzle. Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.
24
Please Life when when responding responding to toadverts adverts Please mention mention The Villager and Town Life
AromaClean offer a friendly, reliable & honest domestic cleaning service tailored to your needs Police Checked & Fully Insured
Taking care of all your home cleaning...
01234 708939 07792 369102 Please call for more details Sue@aromaclean.org.uk PART-TIME CLEANING
STAFF REQUIRED Must be conscientious & reliable
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
25
what’S ON?
IN MAY
17 April-18 May Zoo - Melina Lafirenze Open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-4pm St Neots Museum, The Old Court, 8 New Street, St Neots Admission free to local residents. Other visitors Adults £2, Children & OAP £1 An exhibition of striking animal images by an exciting new local artist. Tel: 01480 214163 Email: curators@stneotsmuseum.org.uk 29 April-3 May Aviation and Railway Art of Keith Hill 10.30am-3.30pm daily Coffee House, The Racehourse Inn, Catworth Keith’s work is internationally known with his work in many military establishments worldwide including The Pentagon. Web: www.keithhillstudios.com or www.theracehorsecatworth.com 1 May Little Paxton Gardening Club 8pm Little Paxton Village Hall Annual subscription £6. Meetings with speakers £1 and £2 for visitors Speaker Jane Buist of Penny Cross Plants talking about Salvias and how to keep them flourishing from year to year. Refreshments included. Plants on sale. 3 May Être et Avoir - Doors open 7.30pm for 8pm start Corn Exchange, St Ives Tickets £5 Screen St Ives. (2002) Follow a year in the life of a primary school that serves a tiny French village. The school has one class of mixed age (4-11) children, led by the dedicated and much loved M Georges. Web: www.screenstives.org.uk 4 May Craft Fair 9.30am-4pm St Ives Free Church Local people selling hand-made crafts at very reasonable prices. Held on the first Saturday of each month. www.saintscrafters.blogspot.com 4 May Craft Fair 12 noon-4pm Offord Village Hall Free admission There will be stalls, refreshments and a raffle. 6 May Wilden May Day Fayre 1pm onwards Wilden Village Hall, High Street, Wilden The Bedford Pipe Band will be marching down Wilden High Street at 1pm, followed by Maypole dancing and the crowning of the May Queen. Lots of free activities. Refreshment tent. Plenty of free parking. 7, 14, 21 & 28 May Bridge Club 7.30-9.30pm Roxton Village Hall Cost £3 Every Tuesday. Beginners welcome. Tel: 01767 448526 Web: www.greatbarfordbowlsclub.org.uk
26
Entries into our What’s On sections are free. If you have an event you would like us to publicise please email the details to whatson@villagermag.com 8 May Happy’s Circus 5pm, performance 6pm Little Paxton School Playing Field Tickets £7 In the Big Top there’ll be clowns, jugglers, trapeze artists, fun and laughter and it’s available for one night only! School hall open at 5pm so come along early for hot food, licensed bar, raffle, giant sweet tombola, clown cake stall, face painting and lots more. Tickets from Little Paxton School Office and Little Paxton School Association (LPSA) Facebook page. 10 May Stageworks of Buckden “Musicals in the Aisles” 7.30pm St Mary’s Church, Buckden Tickets £10, Concessions £8 including complimentary glass of wine at the interval Come listen and watch this talented group of young students as they perform more songs from the shows. In aid of Buckden’s Living Stones & Church Funds. Tickets from Costcutter and Que Sera, Buckden. Tel: Ron Ingamells 01480 811608 for tickets or email: rjingamells@btinternet.com 11 May The Community Festival 2013 All day Pemberton Arms, Harston The Pemberton Arms are organising a day of festivities to keep good old village community spirit alive and raise money as possible for the new playground equipment on the Village Green as well as ongoing community projects. All profits will be donated. BBQ, real ales, children’s activities as well as a creative line-up of music and entertainment. Well behaved pets welcomed. 11 May Little Paxton Scarecrow Festival 10.30am-4pm Free admission Local crafts, tearoom, beer tent, bouncy castle, zorb balls, charity stalls and much more. Arena with local school choir, majorettes, local dance school African drummers. Megg-aMix Disco. Residents make and display scarecrows in their gardens and they will be judged by Julie Fernandez. Tel: Jacqui on 01480 219132 Email: jacqueline.clake63@ntlworld.com Website: www.littlepaxtonscarecrows.co.uk 11 May The Music of Manhattan 7.30pm St Margaret’s Church, Hemingford Abbots Tickets £10 available in advance or on the door The Dan Forshaw Quartet presents The Music of Manhattan including favourites from Oklahoma, West Side Story and many more Tel: Jenny Stocker 01480 468802 or Janet Stewart 01480 462060 for tickets 11 May Quiz Evening 7.30pm The Stuart Memorial Hall, Tempsford £5 per person including Ploughman’s supper With Quiz Master Chris Ebeling. Teams of up to 6 people. Tel: Meryl 01767 640873 for tickets
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
what’S ON? IN MAY
11 & 12 May Art Exhibition 10.30am-4.30pm Hemingford Abbots Village Hall Free admission All works of art both framed and unframed are originals and will be for sale. Cards featuring original work and also handpainted ones will be on sale. Refreshments will be on sale. www.cambridgeshire.net. 15 May AGM and The Whitney Photographic Archive 7.30pm W.I. Headquarters, Walden Road, Huntingdon Non-members welcome - £1 donation at the door appreciated Huntingdonshire Family History Society AGM and a talk on The Whitney Photographic Archive by Alexa Cox. Web: www.huntsfhs.org.uk 17 May “A Bespoke Journey Down Under” by Frank Burns 8pm Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Free admission An audio-visual presentation of Frank’s 4000km cycle ride in New Zealand and Australia in aid of Children in Syria Appeal. Light refreshments. Everyone welcome. 18 May Specialist Plant Sale 11am-4pm Buckden Towers Admission £2.50. Refreshments. Free parking. 18 May St Neots W.I. Spring Fayre 11.30am-2.30pm St Mary’s Church Rooms, Church Walk, St Neots Stalls include Cakes, Bric-a-Brac, plants, tombola, nearly new, books and jumble. Refreshments available. 18 May Massed Bands Concert 7.30pm Hinchingbrooke Performing Arts Centre, Brampton Road, Huntingdon Tickets £13.50 Huntingdonshire Concert Band will be joined by the band of The RAF Regiment in a spectacular massed bands concert with over 90 musicians on stage to raise funds for SSAFA Forces Help. Tel: Box office 07980 316402 or 01480 811027 Email: md@huntingdonshireconcertband.com Web: www.huntingdonshireconcertband.com
19 May Huntingdonshire Local Group of the Wildlife Trust 10.30am Meet at the layby immediately west of the entrance to the Rugby Club on Woburn Road (B530), Ampthill. Grid ref TL028 376 Suggested donation Adults £2, Children free A guided walk at Cooper’s Hill Nature Reserve, Ampthill, Bedfordshire. Tel: Phil on 01487 822835 for information 21 May Over the Rainbow 7.30pm Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Kimbolton Flower Club. Jo Poulter, will take us “Over The Rainbow”. Visitors welcome - admission £6. Sales table and plant stall. Designs are raffled. 25 May Shepreth Village Hall Market 10am-12.30pm Free admission Organised by a group of local small enterprises who want to put village shopping back into villages. There will be a wide variety of stalls including Trach Chic, a Village Blacksmith, local, fresh produce and plants, organic essential oils, Posh doggie treats, wicker baskets and apple juice, Indian Snacks, handmade crafts and lots more! Ample parking at the rear of the hall. 26 May Model Railway Open Day 2-5pm 14 Boardman Close (off Gordon Road), Little Paxton Free admission A chance to see a Gauge 1 model railway in action. Donations to St James’ Church CHUFT Appeal. 26 May Cambridgeshire Branch of The Western Front Association 2.15pm for 2.30pm start Offord Cluny Village Hall, 158 High St, Offord Cluny Speaker is Howard Williamson - “If only the artefact could talk”. Tel: Mrs Teddy Noyes 01480 890966 26 & 27 May St Ives Antiques Fair 10am-4pm Burgess Hall, Westwood Road, St. Ives Adults £2, Concessions £1.50 Tel: 01480 896866 for further information 30 May Roman Clay Oil Lamps St Neots Museum, The Old Court, 8 New Street, St Neots Discover our local Roman pottery finds and make a replica Roman clay lamp. Tel: 01480 214163 Email: curators@stneotsmuseum.org.uk
18 May Coro Stellante - Ladies Voices from Norfolk 7.30pm St Mary’s Church, Buckden Tickets £10, Concessions £8 including complimentary glass of wine at the interval An engaging ladies choir formed in 2010. Under their 31 May inspirational music director, Michael Kibblewhite, they Meet a Roman Soldier have given many concerts across East Anglia and recently St Neots Museum, The Old Court, 8 New Street, St Neots returned from a concert tour in Italy where they received Meet a Roman Soldier and make a replica Roman sword rave reviews. In aid of Buckden’s Living Stones & Church and a Roman brooch. Funds. Tel: 01480 214163 Email: curators@stneotsmuseum.org.uk Tickets from Costcutter and Que Sera, Buckden. Tel: Ron Ingamells 01480 811608 for tickets or email: 31 May rjingamells@btinternet.com Bingo for Prizes 7.30pm Tel: Ron Ingamells 01480 811608 for more info or email Refreshments are included in the cost of a bingo card. events@stmarysbuckden.org.uk To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767Raffle. 261 122 27
Ty Interiors Prize Crossword 1st Prize £25 Name:
Sponsored by Ty Interiors, The Olde Watermill Shopping Village, Faldo Road, Barton Le Clay, MK45 4RF
Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before 17th May 2013. Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Tel:
Address:
Please enter me into the prize draw to be drawn at end of 3 months for £1000 off a fully fitted kitchen. T&C’s apply. (Please tick) Last Month’s Crossword Winners. Congratulations to: 1st prize - Ms Forster – Kempston Hardwick and 2nd prize - Mr Giles – St Neots For last month’s solution please visit www.villagermag.com Across 1 Choose (6) 4 Bends (6) 9 Latest style (7) 10 Work out (5) 11 Scour (5) 12 Remove (7) 13 Arguing (11) 18 Changed (7) 20 Used to steer a car (5) 22 Attempted (5) 23 Kindergarten (7) 24 Area, district (6) 25 Head of newspaper (6) Down 1 Least risk (6) 2 Not the winner (5) 3 Type of plant (7) 5 Overturn (5) 6 Rogue (7) 7 Bedding (6) 8 Unconnected (11) 14 Loosening (7) 15 Taken down (7) 16 Haggle (6) 17 Participant (6) 19 Wireless (5) 21 Expel (5)
28
Pleasemention mentionThe TheVillager Villagerand andTown TownLife Life when responding adverts Please when responding toto adverts
Welcome PRICES
£4
to the world of GSN Conservatories... home of probably the largest outdoor display area you will ever see!
All our conservatories are made-to-measure from modern, low maintenance materials so you can be sure that which ever conservatory you choose, it will continue to look as good as new in years to come. START FROM ONLYD FULLY INSTALLE Your home deserves the best... E BAS THE INCLUDING You deserve the best that AND VAT of your money can buy! The conservatory designed choice individually home! r you suit by GSN to
,999
With over 20 styles of conservatories on display at our head office and 10 models on show at Wilstead we think you will be spoilt for choice!
FREE
TOP QUALITY CERAMIC FLOOR TILES on all conservatory orders placed this month
GOOD SELECTION OF TILES TO CHOOSE FROM
Some ex-display models available from both sites at incredible savings! Please enquire for details.
GSN
The family firm with NO commission paid reps and NO sub-contractors
CONSERVATORIES
Pertenhall Road (1 mile from Gt Staughton) Gt Staughton, Nr St Neots Cambs PE19 5BE Telephone 01480 860000 Open Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat & Sun 10am - 4pm Also at: Season’s Garden Centre Wilstead (main Road - A6) Bedford Beds MK45 3HU Telephone 01234 740011 Open Mon - Sat 10am to 4pm Sun 11am to 4pm
Established since 1984
www.gsn.co.uk
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
29
Garden Services
Kim Walker
• Patios • Block Paving • Decking • Shed Bases • Fencing • Ponds & Water • Turfing Features Complete Garden Service • Driveways
Landscaping
30 years experience in both private & commercial enterprises
Office:
01480 214 664
www.kimwalkerlandscaping.co.uk
Business gone a bit slow? Let us help! Advertising in The Villager is easy. To find out more call Christa on 07868 369257 or email christa@villagermag.com
30
BRICKHILL
BOOK BUG REVIEW The Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker ‘It was, at the beginning, a quite invisible catastrophe’ Slowly, imperceptibly, the rotation of the Earth is slowing down and soon everything on the planet finds itself affected by the lengthening days and nights. The Slowing is a disaster that affects the whole world equally. There is nowhere that 11 year old Julia and her family can go to escape the changes. As her best friend’s family relocates to Utah, her grandfather disappears and her parents’ marriage disintegrates, Julia struggles with school, growing up and falling in love, while the days grow dangerously hot and the nights become bitterly cold. Karen Thompson Walker has created a truly frightening and inescapable disaster. Reading this I was reminded of John Wyndham’s so-called ‘cosy catastrophes’, stories that tell of the end of world as we know it from a very personal point of view. There is no hero character in this book coming to save the day. The world is broken and Julia and her family and friends must learn to live with the consequences, if they can… For more information about books and reading, visit the Virtual Library at www.bedford.gov.uk/ libraries. The Book Bug has worked for the library service in Bedfordshire for over 20 years. She lives in Brickhill with far too many books!
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
31