Bedford April 2013

Issue 1 April 2013

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Local News • Local People • Local Services • Local Charities • Local Products 18,000 copies delivered to Bedford and the surrounding villages

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AS AI AB K U HE R S OU S AT OU T PU RC MP E S

Issue 1 April 2013

FREE

Local News • Local People • Local Services • Local Charities • Local Products 18,000 copies delivered to Bedford and the surrounding villages

Editorial

Melanie Hulse, Alistair Burt, Alex Brown, Pippa Greenwood, James Baggott and Debbie Singh-Bhatti

Front Cover Image Bedford BID

Advertising Sales Christa Hallam Tel: 07868 369257 Christa@villagermag.com

Design and Artwork Design 9 Tel 07762 969460

Publishers

Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com

VILLAGER The

and Town Life

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.

Welcome!

Welcome to the launch edition of Beds Local, Bedford’s exciting new title brought to you through the merger of Bedford Link and the Villager & Town Life Magazines.

We are passionate about all things Local and welcome all your news, views and information about Bedford and the surrounding area.

Alongside the magazine we have launched a Beds Local website www.beds-local.co.uk where you can view an online version of the magazine, find out about local events, businesses, special offers from participating businesses and much more!

We hope you enjoy your new Beds Local magazine.

Have a great Easter.

Sue and Christa

In this Issue Food and Farming..................................................................... 4 AKS Tuning - 1 Year In............................................................... 12 Alliance Foster Care.................................................................14 Viking Kayak Club..................................................................... 17 Neighbours from hell...............................................................18 Corner 5, Box End Park........................................................... 20 Fooled You............................................................................... 24 P & R Bathrooms..................................................................... 26 High Street Properties Restored to Former Glory................. 28 Macmillian Coffee Morning...................................................... 31 Bedford Street Angels.............................................................32 Your Top 5 Money Saving Apps...............................................37 Chris Dunne Building and Maintenance................................ 40 Young Tree Pruning................................................................. 42 Grow Your Own Veg................................................................ 45 Get Composting...................................................................... 47 Seasonal Delights.................................................................... 48 Children’s Page......................................................................... 51 AWD XJ Porsche Cayenne........................................................52 Animal Stories......................................................................... 55 St. Georges Day........................................................................57 Gallery 1066............................................................................. 58 Hong Kong island.................................................................... 63 Puzzle Page............................................................................. 64 Bleed Baby Bleed.................................................................... 66 What’s On................................................................................ 68 Prize Crossword.......................................................................72 Brickhill Book Bug Review...................................................... 74

You are now able to view Beds Local magazine online at

www.beds-local.co.uk

To advertise please call 01767 261122 or email christa@villagermag.com

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Food and farming

taking the right direction I may have said before what a particular pleasure it is for someone born and brought up in suburban Manchester, but with a love of the outdoors, to have been elected the MP of such a large, varied rural constituency. Whether I’m visiting a farm, running around Harrold Country Park in the Pit Run or simply walking the dog I never stop enjoying the look of the place. Perhaps that helps explain why I tend to feel, and argue, that the UKs wind energy is better coming from off shore rather than from Bedfordshire wind turbines.

But the vital importance of a working countryside has come to prominence again with the recent ‘horsemeat’ food scandal. Suddenly it makes sense to know a bit more about where our food comes from and the conditions of those who produce it. Living where we do many of us have the chance to buy from farm shops or local butchers where we can make direct inquiries, as well as ensuring we are buying local produce from veg to meat.

Making the case for farmers, and for the safety of the food chain, is the President of the National Farmers Union, who is, of course our local farmer, Peter Kendall. Since he became President some years ago Peter has never stopped from talking realistically but positively to farmers and shoppers alike about the importance of good,

well produced food which must be based on transparency and trust for all. He knows it’s an ‘ill wind’, and could be doing good for UK farmers by focusing attention on greater awareness by the public, which should help UK farm produce with their high welfare and hygiene standards.

But a visit to a local branch of one of the UK’s major supermarkets reminded me of another side to all this. There are genuine issues of concern with how supermarkets use their considerable power to drive farm prices down, but the one I visited, employing 300 local staff, was keen to show how its food could be traced back to suppliers. Local employees were proud of their years of experience preparing fresh meat and fish, able to answer such questions and to show how processed meals were coded to give similar information.

Incidentally this store just a few years ago had three aisles devoted to home baking and cooking.

Now it is only one. Our changing work and eating habits have unintentionally affected our buying, preparing and cooking of fresh food, costing us in more ways than one.

I am sure some will look at recent news stories as a chance to look again at food. We must ensure safety and full information for all, no matter how much time in busy lives can be afforded for its preparation.

By Alistair Burt

January 2013 Bedfordshire NFU Dinner, inc National President Peter Kendall

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Letter from the Far East Xin Nian Kuai Le! Happy New Year of the Snake!

Since my last letter, I've been playing tour guide with various groups of friends who have visited Singapore as part of 6 month to yearlong trips around Asia. It's always interesting to hear other people's reactions to Singapore after having spent weeks in Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. The first thing that nearly everyone comments on is the cleanliness of Singapore, which is almost always immediately followed by a comment on how expensive it is here! Having been here for over a year, I can still say that I genuinely love this country. I finally got round to visiting the 'Gardens by the Bay', a 250 acre park in the city centre, bordering the Marina Reservoir. In the gardens, you can learn about the cultural and historical value of certain plants pertaining to the Chinese, Malay and Indian population. The gardens are also home to the 'Supertrees', treelike structures on which ferns and orchids grow. At night, the Supertrees are beautifully lit up and there is even a restaurant at the top of one of them!

From the gardens, you can see Marina Bay Sands (the hotel designed like a boat balanced on top of three skyscrapers) and the Singapore Flyer (equivalent to the London Eye - but slightly bigger!) as well as the starting blocks for the Singapore Grand Prix!

During Chinese New Year, Dave and I spent a day kayaking with friends in the mangroves which surround the small island of Pulau Ubin, just off the north-east coast of Singapore. It was incredibly beautiful and we managed to spot plenty of monitor lizards and snakes, as well as a quick glimpse of some wild boar!

Next month, I'll be updating you on our trip to Gili Trawangan, a small island in Indonesia, situated between Bali and Lombok! It's well known for its white beaches, crystal waters, technicolor corals, tropical sealife (...and food) and the complete absence of motorised transport. We're really looking forward to this holiday!

Em X

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AKS Tuning

1 Year In

AKS Tuning was established in early March 2012. As the name suggests we specialise in tuning cars to a higher specification than how they roll out of the dealership. Our main focus is on the Volkswagen group (Audi, VW, Seat, Skoda and Porsche) but we welcome every make and model through our doors, for everything from a health check and a fluid levels top-up to a full engine overhaul.

AKS Tuning also undertakes the fabrication of specialist parts where they will give extra performance. All of this is done at our in-house fabrication suit and all parts are 100% tailor made. If something slightly out of the ordinary is required then we are well equipped to offer this.

We also have a range of local sub-contractors when further specialist work is required and they provide a level of service in line with us.

With over 10 years experience in the automotive industry you can be assured that with AKS not only are you getting skills but also passion put into your car. Whether it’s a brake pad change or a full engine conversion AKS will always offer you top quality advice and workmanship at extremely competitive prices.

Our location at Oakley Park in Station Road,

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Oakley means we are well positioned for customers to find us from various parts of the country with the A1 and the M1 links so close by, but even more so for those located in North Beds who dislike battling with the town centre traffic in order to get to alternative service centres. We only use manufacturer (OEM) parts as standard on all our work so your warranty stays fully intact, be it a main dealer warranty or a third party warranty. We can even carry out the warranty work for you!

We’ve had a spectacular first year trading with customers coming from as far afield as North Yorkshire, Manchester, The West Midlands, Norfolk and the Home Counties to have their car maintained by us. The mail order business is also growing rapidly and as well as our United Kingdom customers there have been shipments to customers in Australia, Kuwait and Scandinavia. We find our customers are very loyal and it’s to them that we owe every bit of our success. For the most part all of the business comes from personal recommendations and through a number of online car forums, for which we are very thankful.

We are authorised dealers for some big names that distribute not just nationwide but worldwide. These include REVO Technik, H&R, Vibratechnics, Bilstein and Forge Motorsport. We also work closely with the main dealers and other local garages and tuning companies to share our knowledge and experiences so when you bring your car to us you’re getting much more than just the name above the door.

Find us on the web at www.akstuning.co.uk or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/akstuning. Or just drop in to see us sometime.

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Taking care of all your home cleaning...

AromaClean offer a friendly, reliable & honest domestic cleaning service tailored to your needs.

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Whether you require a one-off, weekly or fortnightly clean

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CLEANING STAFF REQUIRED 07792 369102 Must be conscientious & reliable

Please call for more details

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Alliance Foster Care

BY MELANIE HULSE

Have you ever considered fostering a child? What are the realities, rewards and reasons? I met the Bakers, a local fostering family, to chat to them about their experiences and the support they receive from their agency, Alliance Foster Care.

‘My children had grown up and were making their own way in the world when I decided that the time was right for us to begin fostering children.’ Mrs. Baker begins.

‘I had always wanted to look after children who needed the care and time I was confident that my husband and I could give. I knew we could provide a stable upbringing and stability is key to caring for children who cannot remain with their parents for any reason.

‘I cannot stress how much I love my life – and fostering is a way of life, not just a job. It is so very rewarding and the children we care for are wonderful. I really enjoy being the person who they turn to and ensuring that I remain positive with the children makes me a very happy person too. I really enjoy gaining the child’s trust which can be a very long process. We watch them develop from frightened little ones who have lost all their confidence, to children who know who they are and where they belong. We provide a sanctuary for a child in need and that is a very fulfilling and enriching experience.

‘Children need a foster carer because something has gone very wrong in their own family and 14

sadly, that usually results in trauma for the child.

Children who need foster care can be withdrawn, angry, very distressed or even ill. Some have special needs such as autism or issues that need medical care immediately or long term.

‘We have taken on many kinds of foster caring – emergency care where a court has ruled that the child cannot remain with the parent for even one more day. On those occasions a child will arrive with just a small carrier bag of possessions, a baby will often have nothing at all. They have no idea where they are going or how to handle what has happened to them and we have to reassure them and make them feel at home and safe as quickly as possible. There is no magic wand of course, but genuine interest and care for children shines through, and they can recognize that.

‘Supporting Mums and babies is another type of foster care. A young Mum will come and stay with us with her newborn baby. Sometimes the Mum has to be taught how to care for the baby or just to trust her own instincts and be confident

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that she can care for her baby. Sometimes it feels impossible to reach these young women, but in my experience they can find their way in the end and it is rewarding to be a fundamental part of that.

‘One of the biggest keys to being a successful and happy foster family is the agency that you choose. None compare to the support and genuine help offered by Alliance Foster Care.

They are amazing –offering guidance and support 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year, without fail. Through Alliance Foster Care we have been able to meet other families with looked-after children. We go to the open days, bar-be-ques, coffee mornings and play-meets that Alliance Foster Care arrange. It is no exaggeration to say that Alliance Foster Care really is one big family.

They honestly care about the children - they always know their names and who they have lived with and their background. They remember

our names and experiences and offer full training that is on-going and structured in a way that will work with a foster parent’s responsibilities.

‘I would advise anyone considering foster caring to pick up the phone. Talking to someone who is a foster carer is not a commitment. Call Alliance Foster Care and they can put you in touch with a foster carer who will tell you the realities and rewards of looking after children through foster care. Or come along to an open day and see for yourself the difference that fostering a child can make to your family. If you decide to go ahead, the Carer Recruitment Officer Mandy, will come and visit you at home provide you with all the information about becoming a foster carer and answer all your questions ’ So if you have been considering looking after a child who desperately needs the stability and care that you can offer, please contact Alliance Foster Care.

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This Easter don’t let us teach you how to suck your eggs!

But if you’d like to actually bite them...

give us a call

For confidential dental advice contact Victoria Place Dental Practice Gary did and it transformed his life!

01767 313896 3 Victoria Place, Biggleswade, Beds SG18 9RN www.victoriaplacedental.com 16

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VIKING KAYAK CLUB

DIVISION 3/4 CANOE SLALOM DIVISION 3/4 CANOE SLALOM, ETIENNE STOTT WHITE WATER ARENA, BEDFORD. 10/03/13 First official canoe slalom at the new Etienne Stott White Water Arena Viking Kayak Club will be hosting one of the first official slalom events of the year at the newly renamed Etienne Stott White Water Arena. The Duckmill weir site was upgraded and opened last year, 03 March 2012, to include a new canoe pass and slalom facilities. After the success of Canoe Slalom C2 partnership of Tim Baillie and Viking Kayak Club’s Etienne Stott, the site was renamed the Etienne Stott White Water Arena.

The canoe slalom event will be for the lower divisional paddlers and first time competitors.

Given the bowl shape of the arena it is sure to be a great spectacle for those that gather on the banks to watch the racing unfold. It is expected there will be 75 competitors on the day. Each competitor taking two runs plus a practice run on the course.

The event will take place on Sunday 10th March at Etienne Stott White Water Arena, Bedford.

Current event timings are: 10:30 Practice Runs 12:30 First Runs 14:30 Second Runs 16:30 Prize Giving Full event details and poster can be found at: http://vikingkayak.co.uk/Documents/Duckmill_ Slalom_Info_March_2013v2.pdf For more information contact: Mikey Reynolds (Captain@vikingkayak.co.uk) 07540849045

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Neighbours from Hell!

YOU AND YOUR RIGHTS There is nothing worse than having a dispute with your neighbour. Any such dispute must therefore be handled carefully and effectively, to stop it spiralling out of control.

If you experience a dispute with your neighbour you should consider the following: 1. Try to speak to your neighbour first You must at least try and reason with your neighbour first. Explain clearly what you are unhappy about and why your complaint is reasonable. There is a good chance that this will resolve the matter.

If the dispute continues, despite speaking to your neighbour: 2. Speak to your neighbour’s landlord (if they rent the property) If the dispute continues: 3. Contact your local council If your attempts to reduce the nuisance fails, contact your local Public or Environmental Health Department, or Environmental Protection Division. They are ‘obliged’ to take ‘all reasonable steps’ to deal with your complaint.

The Environmental Officer will: • Visit the property to assess the nuisance • Write to your neighbour

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• If your neighbour ignores the Environmental Officer - a notice will be issued requiring your neighbour to stop causing the nuisance Important Notes • It is an offence not to comply with a notice.

• Some local authorities may impose restrictions on night-time noise under the Noise Act 1996.

• Under the Crime and Disorder Act 1988 local authorities can apply to a magistrates court for an antisocial behaviour order (ASBO). This will prohibit your neighbour from continuing the nuisance.

If this still does not resolve problem - Take action yourself You will have the following options: • Ask your neighbour if they are prepared to attend mediation • Apply direct to your local magistrates court to complain about the nuisance. However, before you do this you should write a formal letter to your neighbour setting out your complaints and giving them 14 days to remedy the situation.

For more information and advice visit consumer champion and legal expert Dean Dunham’s website www.youandyourrights.com

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Restaurant Review at Corner 5

Box End Park, Box End Road, Kempston Our latest review of the best local restaurants to eat at, took us to Corner 5 Restaurant and Bar, part of Box End Park, close to the River Ouse on the A5134 Box End Road between Bromham and Kempston.

Box End Park is a purpose built water sports centre offering the public a thrilling array of water sports across two manmade lakes that occupy 100 acres of rural Bedfordshire.

After the cold winter and the snow and ice had disappeared it was a real pleasure to venture out and sample the delights that lay in store for us at Corner 5.

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We were warmly greeted as we arrived by the Corner 5 staff who would take care of us over the course of the evening, and all were very pleasant and very attentive.

As we sat with our predinner drinks we were served green and black olives with an olive oil and balsamic vinegar dip accompanied by warm crusty fresh rolls – a fine way to whet the appetite. Whilst perusing the menu we were able to admire the beauty of our surroundings – built from Canadian cedar and with an imposing vaulted ceiling, Corner 5 is a superb building complemented by contemporary décor and panoramic windows which must give a fantastic view in the lighter months.

The first course arrived – Baked Duck Egg – a free range local duck egg poached until soft in a tomato, pepper, chilli and onion sauce finished with scallions and fresh coriander, accompanied by croquet-monsieur soldiers- along with – Scallops a la Francaise – a classic French dish of Black pearl scallops complimented by petit pois, shallots and baby gem lettuce braised in a lightly sweetened butter broth. The presentation of both dishes was of the highest order, both dishes were flavoursome and an excellent start to our evening.

Owners James and Hannah Barbour along with Chef Sean Hazlett and his team strive to produce high quality food at affordable prices without any short cuts, using only the freshest ingredients available and the best local produce when possible.

James informed us that the menu is changed on a regular basis but also evolves seasonally as various produce becomes available ensuring only the freshest food is served to their customers.

Additional starters on the menu include – Sticky Confit Ribs - tender slow cooked pork spare ribs marinated in a sticky Cuba Libre sauce, served with a fresh lime and celeriac remoulade and buttered corn on the cob. Starters range in price from £5.25 to £7.25.

With our starters finished and a timely pause before the next course we were served up the

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Mains and with a good selection to choose from we singled out – Fish Grill – smoked trout fillet, sweet black pearl scallops, crispy skin cod and meaty king prawns, served with a garlic field mushroom, balsamic roast tomato and double cooked chips, all accompanied by a dill soubise sauce , we also opted for – Deconstructed Venison Wellington – pan seared venison steak served medium rare with sautéed wild mushrooms, rich chicken liver parfait.

Puff pastry shard and roast thyme potatoes, finished with a pink peppercorn sauce.

Again Chef Sean Hazlett’s attention to detail was spot on and the presentation was excellent, both dishes were of a high standard, particularly the venison which was seriously succulent and melted in the mouth. A good appetite would be an advantage for both dishes as the portions were fairly generous.

Alternative main courses on offer include – Woodland Assiette – tender pigeon breast, duck confit rissole and free range poached egg accompanied by a celeriac & potato rosti, juniper infused caramelised onions, finished with a smoked bacon and Madeira reduction The cost of the Main courses range from £13.95 to £19.95 and there would appear to be something for most people on the menu as Corner 5 attempt

to cater for most tastes. The size of the portions at Corner 5 seem to be thought out very well, not too much so that you are left feeling bloated but enough to leave you feeling satisfied although some dishes are more than generous.

With room left for dessert and for some the most important component to a really good meal we selected Pumpkin Pie - warm cinnamon spiced pumpkin in a golden sweet pastry case served with a ball of white chocolate and crunchy cookie icecream – plus – Rhubarb Panna Cotta – an indulgent double cream panna cotta topped with a tangy rhubarb jelly, finished with candied rhubarb and a crumble shard.

Both tasted as good as they looked with really good combinations, an exemplary way to finish off an excellent evenings eating.

Another dessert on the menu is – Chocolate Orange Cheesecake – a Belgian chocolate cheesecake flavoured with fresh orange and Cointreau, prices range from £5.45 to £8.45.

If a warm welcome, good service, a pleasant atmosphere and good food is what you want out of an evening, then James and Hannah and their staff will do their very best to give you just that and we can highly recommend that you pay Corner 5 a visit, we don’t think you will be disappointed.

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LOCAL FUNERAL DIRECTOR

MOLYNEUX JONES GAINS TOP ACCOLADE Bedford funeral director Molyneux Jones Family Funeral Directors has been named one of the UK’s best funeral directors following an assessment visit by the Good Funeral Guide, an independent funeral consumer advocacy organisation.

In its review of Molyneux Jones the Good Funeral Guide says: “The sense of really personal care shines through.”

Find the full review here: http://www.goodfuneralguide. co.uk/funeral-directors/molyneux-jones-family-funeraldirectors/ The Good Funeral Guide assesses select funeral homes according to strict criteria which focus on the quality of the experience they offer to bereaved people. Molyneux Jones Family Funeral Directors has been inspected to ensure that clients are treated with courtesy, listened to with empathy, offered a full range of choice, charged fairly and empowered to play whatever part they want in creating a send-off for the person they have lost which accords with their values and wishes.

The accreditation process also involved spending time behind the scenes to ascertain that those who have died are cared for with the utmost tenderness and respect.

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QUOTE: Charles Cowling, author of the Good Funeral Guide says: “Choosing a funeral director can be very difficult because they all look much the same. But they’re not. Some, a precious few, are truly outstanding, and Molyneux Jones is one of them. The team at Molyneux Jones are unsung heroes doing a magnificent job, and the people of Bedford deserve to know this. Bereaved people need to do their very best for their loved one. They deserve the very best funeral director.”

QUOTE: “It has been very difficult to set up an independent business to compete with all the large businesses but I wanted to ensure outstanding customer service is the most important focus & the families I have helped so far have appreciated the flexibility and personal touch that you get with a smaller business. To get this independent verification from the Good Funeral Guide is really encouraging, they seemed to like the open and honest approach, especially the website, so I hope other people will too.”

For further information contact Malcolm Jones on 01234 363191 or 07435 960976 Email: malcolm@molyneuxjones.co.uk

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Fooled you!

by ALEX BROWN It’s always fun to watch the news on April Fools’ Day, trying to spot the fake story. Sometimes it’s not that easy!

Here is a reminder of some classic pranks from years gone by: The most memorable has got to be the BBC’s 1957 Panorama report on the bumper spaghetti crop. Huge numbers of viewers were fooled by the footage of Swiss peasants gathering long strands of pasta from the trees!

In 1962, Swedish television viewers were duped into thinking that they could transform their black-and-white TV sets into colour by stretching a nylon stocking over the screen.

Australians were confused in 1975 when they were told they were converting to metric time, with 100 seconds to the minute, 100 minutes to the hour and 20-hour days.

More recently in 2008, we were stunned to see a BBC film of Adélie penguins flying across the Antarctic on their way to spend the winter in the rainforests of South America. This became one of the most viewed videos on the internet.

And finally, do you remember the whistling carrot?

Tesco published an advert in 2002 publicising the genetically modified vegetable. The advert said it had air holes in the side and that it whistled when it was fully cooked!

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P and R Bathrooms

SECOND TO NONE SERVICE

There is a dizzying array of options open to anyone considering a new bathroom. Followers of popular home fashions and the latest styles featured in home design magazines will be familiar with some of the choices available, but to access the experience and guidance I felt I needed, I went along to visit P and R Bathrooms. The P and R Bathrooms showroom on Lurke Street in Bedford is a huge and impressive area with many, many display bathrooms cleverly laid out to make it easy to see individual styles and familiarize oneself with every option. With expert help it was much easier to discover the latest bathroom looks suitable for my home and a variety of tastes and budgets.

‘The main concern for many people these days is

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bathroom furniture and storage. There are two big choices’ explain Paul, the ‘P’ of P and R. ‘The fully fitted bathroom or the free-standing, modular bathroom.’

I give him a confused frown and with no further ado I am being gently ushered towards an impressive looking show bathroom. The cistern is invisible, no pipework is on display whatsoever. The cupboards are ranged across the back wall and are deliciously sleek with real oak doors and plenty of drawers for easy-access to toiletries and towels. There is a fully coordinated worktop for a really clean look and a sink which I am told can be recessed into the surface for a solid surface finish or I can choose one which is fitted onto the counter top and has a more traditional look.

‘Many people favour the fully fitted bathroom because it has that modern edge. It features clean, long lines and with the right amount of storage space it is easy to maintain that sleek, tidy look that works so well. It is brilliant for smaller bathrooms and can actually make them appear larger. Clever lighting can work wonders in smaller spaces too and it is easy to incorporate that into a fitted bathroom and make the most of that very finished, polished look.’

‘The alternative is to choose a free-standing or modular bathroom.’ I am guided towards a shining

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example as Paul continues. ‘Even though there is no counter-top or fitted furnishings in here the pipework can still be hidden because it is recessed into the wall. The storage – whatever you choose, cupboards, drawers, or a combination, can be wall mounted and tiled around so that it still has that very finished, sleek look but there need not be so much of it so again, this can work well in smaller bathrooms . The cupboards or drawers that you do choose have true space – non of it is in use for hiding pipework and so the storage is not compromised in any way. There are all sorts of furniture options so that you can still have that longline look and as everything is wall mounted there is nothing underneath which can make cleaning easier and lend a more open feel to the room.’

After spending time in the P and R showroom I am absolutely sure of the style I would like in our new bathroom. Our house is older and styled more traditionally and so I am glad to have the option of a free standing bathroom with all the modern convenience of recessed pipework and furniture that can accommodate the storage that our family needs.

P and R Bathrooms have been in the bathroom business for a long time. ‘The beauty of having been in this business for the years that we have is that we use only suppliers who have proved themselves, the ones with the best track record of quality products and service. We insist on this because we insist that our customers are happy with their bathroom, and that has to be true, really honestly true, down the whole line – confident and happy designers, suppliers and installers result in delighted customers who come back to us time and again. And that really is our experience.’

P and R Bathrooms can undertake the complete transformation of your bathroom, ensuring the plumbers, carpenters, electricians and installers are all of the highest standard with experience and workmanship that is unrivalled. ‘We don’t have to provide the complete package, some people just want us to supply the bathroom, others want design and supply, but our customers who have trusted us with the whole package have all been thrilled with the results as well as the fact that they could just leave it all in our hands and there was no stress or added responsibility for them.’

If you are contemplating a new look for your littlest room, I would not hesitate to recommend a trip to P and R Bathrooms. Being able to make the choice by

spending time in such a huge variety of bathrooms, benefitting from expert advice followed by a design service and installation that you can trust ensures that P and R Bathrooms are second to none.

P&R Bathrooms

9 Lurke Street, Bedford MK40 3HZ Tel: 0845 434 8401 Website: www.pandrbathrooms.co.uk Open 9:00am-5:00pm Mon - Fri 10:ooam-4:00pm Saturday To advertise please call 01767 261122 or email christa@villagermag.com

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HIGH STREET PROPERTIES

TO BE RESTORED TO FORMER GLORY

The first improvement grant contract has been signed to start building works along Bedford’s High Street, as part of the Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) scheme. The eagerly awaited works to 123-125 High Street will be on site in the next few weeks.

The property houses ‘Rajkot’, an Indian Tapas restaurant, ‘Newsfayre’ and a local cab firm, Anglia Cars. The scheme involves an extensive programme of repairs and restoration of the traditional shopfront, using evidence from historic photographs of the building.

The THI grant money and the owners’ contribution will be used in the process. The vacant upper floors of the property will also be given a new lease of life as a student residence, with one of the best views in town of the John Bunyan statue.

The Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: “Through the THI scheme we want to do all we can to make a positive difference to our High Street, so we are delighted that this particular property at its northern gateway has come forward. These works will enhance the visual impact of the properties, and represent the first of a number of projects which will draw on the High Street’s heritage to make it a more attractive, vibrant area for people to enjoy.”

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The owners have appointed local businesses to produce the designs and undertake the building works. The project will also benefit construction students at Bedford College, who will be offered work placements by the contractor.

The property is all that is left of a row of almshouses, known as Duke’s Row, built around 1800. The building became a shop in 1891, and over the years has been used by businesses to sell pianos, books and to make hats.

Mr Samat Lakha, co-owner of the property, said: “It is kind to be given the opportunity to put the property back to the way it was, as I really believe in the historic features of the building. I encourage others on High Street to join the project, as it will greatly benefit both High Street businesses and the people of Bedford. We are grateful to the THI Team and our agent, Simic Associates, for working with us to put together our grant application. The market brought back people to St. Paul’s Square, and now I believe this refurbishment will help bring people back to the High Street.”

With the neighbouring Reels Amusement Arcade also having secured grant funding, watch this space throughout 2013 for further improvements for Bedford High Street through the THI Scheme.

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MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING

A GLOWING SUCCESS

In September we are again holding the Macmillan Coffee Morning at Ravensden Village Hall.

This year we are asking people who have been affected by cancer if they would kindly donate a crocheted/knitted 7� x 7� square, any design any colour in memory of someone who has died, survived or is battling cancer at the moment. We would ask that with your square you give us the name of the person it represents, the name of the person who knitted/crocheted it and the relationship to that person. Then we are going to join all the squares together and try to make it the biggest blanket ever. Before the coffee morning in September we will auction the blanket and all monies raised will go to the Macmillan Cancer Support. With the blanket there will be a book published which contains all the names, and contributors to the blanket listed. We will be

doing a smaller booklet version for a nominal fee but that is available to purchase. In this booklet it will also contain all the names that the squares relate to. 1 in 3 people are affected by cancer by either knowing someone who has it, or has just been diagnosed with it, survived it or has died from it.

If you can help by donating a square can you let me know via facebook bedfordshire sale sites, or to my email address which chell.ross@ hotmail.co.uk or by sending your square/s to 1 Widecombe Close, Bedford, Beds. MK40 3BL with relevant details.

To advertise please call 01767 261122 or email christa@villagermag.com

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BEDFORD STREET ANGELS

Helping to reduce crime in bedford

If you have been out in Bedford Town centre on a Saturday night after 10.00pm, then you might have seen people in red jackets walking about. They are the Bedford Street Angels, but who are these Street Angels?

Bedford Street Angels was born out of the tragic death of a young man, Robert Gill who died as a result of a mugging and murder on Boxing Day 2007. It was his adoptive parents, Fred and Fran who asked the churches of the town to explore the possibility of forming a Street Angels project to support the vulnerable who access the night time economy to ensure there is no similar tragedy.

Bedford Street Angels has been in operation since its launch in February 2009. The project is supported by churches from the Bedford area.

At present there are about 30 volunteers who go out onto the streets on a rota basis and coming from about 20 different churches in the area and from all denominations. They go out onto the streets from 10.30pm to 3 or 4am and they work as part of Bed Safe, a Bedford Borough Council initiative, which includes the police, CCTV, Taxi Marshalls, the Emergency services, the club and pub owners and door staff. Through Nite net radios, everyone is in contact with each other and the aim is to ensure that all who go out on a Saturday night enjoy themselves, but are kept safe at all times.

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So who needs help on a Saturday night and why, when it’s after 2.00am and freezing cold do they do it?

The volunteers don’t wear wings or have halos, nor do they get paid, but the groups of Street Angels are helping to reduce violent crime in Bedford town centre. Wearing their distinctive red jackets, they set out in teams of three to patrol along a wide area focusing on the town centre. More often than not, the Street Angels are available to help people,

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especially the vulnerable including those who may have become isolated from their friends, who are on their own waiting for their lift home to arrive or who need direction to locate taxi ranks or cash machines. The Street Angels are also on hand to help those who have had too much to drink, or wait with folk needing a paramedic. They have had some basic first aid training, and carry such things as flip flops, water, emergency blankets and even hot drinks for those cold nights. They are also on hand to listen and support anyone who wants to offload a story or talk about an issue in their lives. Picking up old glass bottles and disposing of them is another part of the work to ensure potential weapons are removed. Over 200 bottles have been collected on a Saturday night!! It’s because they care and want to make a difference.

Whilst they do not look for recognition, it is always good to be appreciated, and it is fair to say that the Police, Bedford Borough Council, and the Clubs and Pub Staff all are very supportive and agree that the Angels do make a difference. Some of the most appreciative are the kids on the streets themselves and every Saturday someone will always say a thank you. Here are some testimonials.

‘On the night/very early morning of January the 29th/30th me and four friends found ourselves to be very VERY cold killing an hour waiting for a taxi.

Along came four of five very cosily dressed people, who were very friendly and were just having a chat with us. They told us they were the Bedford Street Angels. We were given flip flops (as inappropriate shoe choice had been discarded), scarves, hats and gloves. We cannot thank enough their kindness and

generosity. By far the kindest people I have met, trying to help others on a Saturday night. Thank you so much Bedford Street Angels, the time you give up to help other people has truly warmed all of our hearts. Amazing’ ‘Thank you for staying with my friend the other Saturday night. Those flip flops were great. Wow, you’re really cool’ ‘Hi I just wanted to say thank you for lending a hand and giving me some flip flops the other night on my 18th birthday! I wasn’t allowed into a club as I was too drunk, and the bouncers wouldn’t let me get my friends out, so I got separating from them and found myself on my own on the streets of Bedford...I was in a state, and you guys helped out. So thank you, what you guys do is amazing! If only the rest of Bedford could be more like you!’

‘I am writing to say a massive thank you for helping to look after me on Sat night. I went out for an evening with a friend and drunk too much. … I can only thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you did for me and praise you for your kindness and the work that you do. [24Mar12] ‘ Perhaps you know of those who go out on a Saturday night, even from your own family. Then give a thought to these volunteers who patrol the streets every Saturday looking after the vulnerable and helping to provide a safer environment in the town centre.

Street Angels is a registered charity and if you would like to know more, then visit the website, www.bedfordstreetangels.org.uk which includes videos and interviews and more testimonials. There are also details of how you can help in practical ways by praying for the work or by becoming a Friend of Street Angels. Be grateful for them as they have just celebrated their 4th birthday!

www.bedfordstreetangels.org.uk To advertise please call 01767 261122 or email christa@villagermag.com

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To advertise please call 01767 261122 or email christa@villagermag.com

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Absolutely ...

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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 36

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Your Top 5

Money Saving Apps The mobile application market represents a cultural shift for the human race. Smartphones are now the ultimate universal digital Swiss Army Knife for every possible facet of our lives and a broad cross section of money-saving utility is now in your pocket. We’re going to take a look at some of the best money-saving apps available for both Apple and Android devices.

Skype | www.skype.com | Free These days, Skype is practically a household name but many overlook the mobile version of this brilliant Internet telephony software as a supremely useful money-saving tool. Encourage everybody you know to download Skype on their mobile device and you have suddenly significantly reduced the chances of ever using up all of your free minutes. For those of you who find yourselves with £10-£50 (or more) in excess fees, this simple app could save you hundreds in the long run.

Voucher Cloud http://www.vouchercloud.com | Free Most people are familiar with the idea that we’re now in a digital era of cutting coupons. Voucher Cloud is an app for all of the best digital offers.

Firing it up will find you everything from free five-day passes to your local gym to discounts on driving lessons and reduced prices in restaurants.

It’s worth taking the time to sit down and check the T&Cs so you know exactly what it is you’re signing up for. Spending a little time being thorough on the small print however will save you hundreds of pounds per year.

RedLaser Barcode Scanner http://redlaser.com | Free Ever found yourself in a shop whereby the little voice in your head is asking you whether you might find the item cheaper on the Internet or just round the corner? All that’s needed to answer the question is your smartphone device and a Wi-Fi or mobile Internet connection.

Photograph the barcode using the on-board camera and it will recognise the item and then cross reference prices with department stores, a vast array of websites, including Ebay, and even local stores. It’s worth noting that the latter feature works best in larger towns and cities. It’s practically impossible to scan a barcode which is not recognised by this incredible app so scout for bargains and save money.

Direct Debit Control Centre http://www.directdebit.co.uk | Free There’s nothing worse than trying to stay on top of your finances, thinking you’re almost there and subsequently getting stung with excess overdraft fees for an unexpected direct debit.

The Direct Debit Control Centre helps you keep on top of when your direct debits are leaving your account via its early warning system. It will save you money and give you peace of mind. iXpenseIt http://www.fyimobileware.com | £2.99 So, what will you do with all this money saved?

One small but wise investment would be to buy an app that helps you stay on top of your expenditure and few are better than iXpenseIt. There’s a lite version which can be downloaded for free so you can try before you buy. This is as good as mobile money management software gets and the app has won several awards including one from CNN Money Magazine. You’ll receive pocket-sized help with managing all the different budgets in your life whether business or personal and all that’s required is a little patience adding incomes and expenditures as they occur.

To advertise please call 01767 261122 or email christa@villagermag.com

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ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS AND BUILDING DESIGN SERVICES Professional and affordable architectural design services provided for all types of private residential building projects with all necessary council approvals obtained.

For free estimates and advice, contact Jason Dixon on:01767 677540 or 07908 004816 e-mail: JTDixon101@aol.com No VAT payable for design and drawing services on residential projects Jason Dixon, 101 Meadow Road, Great Gransden, Sandy, SG19 3BB.

J. garrard & allEn solicitors Established 1799

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LOCAL STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS HAVE BEEN ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 30 YEARS SPECIALISING IN COMPLETE SOLUTIONS TO YOUR PROBLEMS AMONG THE SERVICES WE OFFER ARE:• Structural surveys on domestic or commercial properties.

• All aspects of structural design for domestic alterations.

• Subsidence investigations and surveys.

• CCTV inspections and drainage repairs.

Our Office Hours are: Tuesday to Friday 8.00am – 4.00pm.

Tel: 01234 272772 Email: leigh@hace-consultancy.co.uk www.hace-consultancy.co.uk 15 St. Cuthbert’s Street, Bedford, MK40 3JB Please quote reference: VIL/HACE/01

To advertise please call 01767 261122 or email christa@villagermag.com

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Chris Dunne

Building and Maintenance

Choosing the right builder to take care of your loft conversion, extension or other building needs is not always a straightforward task. It is so important to know that the company is trustworthy, reliable, skilled, registered, qualified and competitive as well as a whole host of other considerations. After all, you will need to communicate effectively with the builder, for a few months at least, and know that you are being not only heard but listened to; they will spend time in your home or garden, possible even amongst your family; they will be earning money from you that you will want to feel happy to pay them and with most building works, there will be considerable disruption to your routine and home that can be hard to tolerate, especially if there are delays to consider. But, of course, with the right builder in charge, the end result could be life changing.

Chris Dunne Building and Maintenance are a family firm who have a fine reputation and a whole host of glowing recommendations:

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‘It made all the difference to me to find a family firm’ explains Mrs. P of Bedford. ‘I knew that our extension would take some time to complete and that we would have to feel comfortable with whomever would be working in our home. I wanted someone who understood why we needed the extension, what a difference it would make to the children’s lives and who could be trusted to see that we made the right decisions that would result in the best use of our space and resources’.

‘It took us a while for us to find a builder we felt comfortable with and we could trust. Chris ticked all the right boxes, He and his team were reliable, friendly & hardworking. Thank you very, very much.’ say Mr. & Mrs. K, of Bedford.

‘I have been in the building trade since I was sixteen’ Chris explains. I am proud to work alongside my Dad and my brother. We aren’t the biggest team but we have a growing list of very happy customers who know that we are small enough to care but big enough to cope. With our combined experience we

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have seen most scenarios and are confident that we can produce the best results. We regularly undertake loft conversions and extensions, restorations and renovations, and are happy to draw up plans for anything including new builds – from a porch to a barn conversion! We are happy to tackle planning applications and building regulations. We can see you through the whole process – from drawing up your dreams all the way to laying the carpets. We deliver on time and on budget, and all with a smile.’

‘Thank you to Chris and his team for doing our kitchen and garden room extension. You were there when promised and you were finished ahead of schedule!! An all round top job!!!’ writes Mrs. R from Bedford. Mrs. Hatley adds: ‘I knew from our first meeting things would go smoothly, From day one we were kept informed about progress and

even the terrible weather didn`t slow you down. A massive thank you from the Hatleys!’

So if you are searching for the right professionals to take on a building project that you are planning then look no further than family firm, Chris Dunne Building and Maintenance. ‘I named the company after myself because I know that I will always be proud of the projects I undertake. I am not afraid to say, “I did that”, to have my name written on my work.’ You can trust Chris and his talented team ‘Thank you so much for creating our new loft conversion. I could write an essay about how good and helpful you all were to us. I wouldn`t hesitate in recommending you. Everyone is so impressed, and the only downside is that we all miss you!’ – Mr. & Mrs. G. of Oakley

CHRIS DUNNE BUILDING & MAINTENANCE 101 George Street, Bedford, MK40 3SJ Tetl: 01234 261682

To advertise please call 01767 261122 or email christa@villagermag.com

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Young Tree Pruning?

Pruning goals for young trees focus primarily on plant health and structure. Remove dead, dying, diseased, crossing and conflicting limbs to maintain plant vitality. Structural pruning of young trees provides a strong framework for future growth. Pruning young trees can prevent structural problems that could require cabling and bracing later in life or could contribute to premature decline or failure. Emphasis should be placed on the following when pruning young trees: • Remove co-dominant or multiple leaders • Maintain a strong central leader especially in trees with excurrent habits • Maintain at least one-half the foliage on branches arising from the lower two-thirds of the tree.

• Provide adequate spacing for primary scaffold limbs.

• Maintain crown shape typical of the species. Remove branches, which protrude from the canopy and those, which grow inwardly or unnaturally downward.

Dead, dying, diseased, broken, rubbing limbs, root suckers and water sprouts should be removed as necessary. Light thinning should be done as necessary to reduce weight of branches and shape the crown.

For more advice visit: www.bartlett.com or contact Bartlett Tree Experts (Bedford) on 01234 354 673. Visit us on Facebook at Bartlett Tree Experts – Bedford UK

Bartlett Tree Experts A Complete and Comprehensive Tree Careand Service since 1907 A Complete Comprehensive Tree Care Service Since 1907 For over 100 years, Bartlett Tree Experts has led both the science and services that make your landscape thrive. No matter the size or scope of your needs, our arborists bring a rare mix of groundbreaking research, global resources and a local service approach to every task at hand. Trees add so much value to our lives; Bartlett adds even more value to your trees.

Tree & Shrub Pruning | Planting | Tree Removal Hedge Cutting | Stump Grinding Woodland Management | Disease & Inseact Control For a free quote please contact your local arborist Tim Brown

01234 354 673 bedford@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com 42

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WHITE’S Lawnmowers & Garden Machinery

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To advertise please call 01767 261122 or email christa@villagermag.com

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SAVESHEDS BEAVER

Let us transform your outdoor space into a

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Spring is the perfect time to give your outdoor spaces some love and care and T.R. LANDSCAPING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE is here to help you.

Not only do we provide routine property maintenance but we also offer innovative landscape garden design services and are specialists in driveway and patio construction.

Our goal is to help you create an outdoor space which will perfectly reflect your individual style and suit your specific needs whether you are a residential or commercial property owner. We will consult with you closely to find out what it is you envision for your Landscape, Hardscape or Outdoor living space - providing practical ideas and inspiring solutions that will fit your budget and potentially add value to your property!

To take advantage of this offer simply cut out and present us with this coupon.

To stay updated on our future events and special offers please do click the ‘LIKE’ button our facebook page 23on Spinney Road, at this website address: Chawston, Bedford, MK443BW Monday - Friday – 8am-5pm www.facebook.com/trlandscapingbedford Saturday - 9am-3pm Sunday – Closed Tel: 01480 212336 www.beaversheds.co.uk

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T.R. LANDSCAPING & Property Maintenance

“We are a family-owned and run business which for over 15 years has been serving the needs of customers in Bedfordshire. We offer a wide spectrum of professional landscaping and property maintenance services for both residential and commercial property owners.”

Driveways, Walkways & Steps  Patio & Outdoor Entertainment Areas  Decking  Landscape Construction & Design Wood Structures & Garden Rooms  Ground & Tree Maintenance  Garden Renovations & Clearance  Outdoor Lighting Pruning & Trimming  Seasonal Cleanup  Hedges  Water Features  Jet Washing  Planting, Turfing & More

For more information about us visit www.trlandscaping.co.uk 44

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Grow Your Own Veg

By PIPPA GREENWOOD As the new gardening year is upon us, why not have a go at growing your own veg because it doesn’t need to be difficult and has the potential to be one of the most productive and fun things you’ve ever done.

Home grown food tastes better, uses little if any air miles, can save you a packet and is enormously rewarding because you’re getting the top end of the market produce. Remember to grow what you like and what your garden can grow well this may take some experimenting, but don’t be afraid to admit that some things are trickier than others in your plot.

If you’re an organic gardener or you simply want to produce pesticide free vegetables, you might need to spend more time thinking about what to grow and how you can best nurture it so that pests, diseases and other problems take a back seat. * Seed and plant catalogues are now more likely to let you know which varieties are relatively pest or disease resistant. * You can also encourage some of the naturally occurring insects that parasite or predate upon the garden pests, or bigger animals such as frogs, toads, hedgehogs and many birds.

Insects include: Ladybirds: The larvae and the adults both consume huge numbers of aphids.

Lacewings: The young or larvae are brilliant predators, eating mainly aphids, but also eating other pests such as thrips and eggs of moths.

Hoverflies: The soft-bodied yellowy grey larvae are great aphid eaters, a single one eating up to fifty in a day, nearing 1,000 in its lifetime.

Ground beetles: Often seen scuttling off at speed when you move pots, low-growing plants or loose slabs, they are mostly black and often shiny and are brilliant predators of many pests including slugs, vineweevils and some insect eggs.

Solitary wasps: Some feed their larvae on aphids, weevils and other insects.

Some of these may already be in your garden, but by growing some suitable plants you can really build up their numbers. On the whole the simple, non-double varieties are the most insect friendly, so try some of these: * Phacelia: A hardy annual with bluish perfumed flowers, perfect for direct sowing.

* Limnanthes douglasii (the poached egg plant): This yellow and white flowered hardy annual is loved by hoverflies. * Eschscholzia (the Californian poppy): This pretty yellow, orange and cream flowered plant can be direct sown and thrives in sunny well-drained sites. * Iberis (candytufts): One of the easiest hardy annuals, it has readily available pollen and nectar, perfect for many beneficial insects.

The rewards are plentiful - a regular supply of superbly tasty vegetables, picked when ripened to perfection (not just to make them last longer on the supermarket shelf), gathered as and when you need them and in the quantities you need (cutting down on wastage) plus you can choose the varieties you find tastiest.

Why not grow some great vegetables in 2013?

Go to www.pippagreenwood.com and sign up for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ – choose from a fantastic selection of vegetables sent to you at just the right time for planting and each week you receive an email from her telling you all you need to know to ensure great results.

You can also sign up for Pippa’s newsletter and receive a free e-book on organic gardening, and buy a hand-picked selection of garden products.

To advertise please call 01767 261122 or email christa@villagermag.com

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Get composting this spring

and save a little more As spring approaches and our thoughts turn to our gardens, make sure you take advantage of a limited offer to get a discounted compost bin.

Central Bedfordshire Council has teamed up with www.getcomposting.com to help you beat the price increase at the start of April.

Composting is a great way to help our gardens bloom and more than a third of household waste is made up of organic material which can be composted at home. Grass cuttings, hedge trimmings, unwanted plants, fruit and vegetable peelings, tea bags and even the contents of the vacuum bag are all ideal for composting.

Cllr Brian Spurr, Executive Member for Sustainable Communities Services at the council said, “We want to encourage you to reduce the amount of waste that is sent to landfill. Composting selected kitchen and garden waste is an easy and effective way of recycling some of the waste we produce every day, while putting nutrients back into our gardens and the wider environment. It is simple

to get started and you may be surprised at how empty your black bin is when you compost at home and use all the recycling services.

“While the new deal will still offer superb value, I’d encourage anyone thinking of getting into composting to buy a bin before the end of March to save that little bit extra!”

Prices for compost bins start at only £9 with a £5 delivery charge and a range of accessories to choose from. There is also a ‘Buy one get one half price’ offer for residents with larger gardens.

For further information about these products, call 0844 571 444 and quote reference CBC01L. Alternatively, you can order your home compost bin and composting accessories online: www.cbc. getcomposting.com

To advertise please call 01767 261122 or email christa@villagermag.com

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SEASONAL DELIGHTS

SPICED RACK OF LAMB WITH FRAGRANT RICE

Perfect for a spring Sunday lunch or stylish supper this quick and easy lamb dish is full of flavor. Choose a couple of meaty racks of lamb from a good butcher and score the layers of fat before spreading with the harissa paste. Serve with a cooling garlic and mint yoghurt sauce.

INGREDIENTS 1 tbsp harissa paste (see Tip) 2 trimmed racks of lamb, each with 6 bones 2 red onions, peeled and cut into slim wedges 50g butter 225g basmati rice, rinsed and drained 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed 750ml vegetable stock Generous pinch saffron strands 50g sultanas 40g flaked almonds, lightly toasted 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds Tip Harissa paste is a fiery hot North African blend of red chilli peppers and spices – just a little goes a long way so use sparingly. You’ll find it in small jars near the dried herb and spice sections in most large supermarkets.

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Serves 4 Ready in 1 hour 1 Preheat the oven to 200C, 400F, Gas 6. Spread the harissa paste over the lamb racks. Place the racks in an oiled roasting tin and add the onion wedges.

2 Roast in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes depending on how pink you like your lamb.

Remove from the oven. Cover with foil and leave to rest for 10 minutes – the lamb will be juicier and easier to carve.

3 Meanwhile, heat the butter in a heavy-based pan until melted and foaming. Add the rice and garlic. Fry gently for 1-2 minutes, stirring until the rice is translucent. Pour in the stock. Add the saffron and bring to the boil, stirring.

4 Cover the pan with a tight fitting lid. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting and cook for 15-20 minutes without removing the lid until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.

Remove from the heat. Fork through to separate the grains. Add the sultanas, flaked almonds and pomegranate seeds.

5 Carve the lamb racks into individual cutlets and serve immediately with the fragrant rice and roast onion wedges.

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Oven Cleaning! - It’s a dirty job!

Why do it yourself?

We clean ovens using non-caustic, non-toxic products in your home.

Ovens • Ranges • Hobs • Extractors Agas • Microwaves • Barbecues (May - Sept) Single Oven (all racks/pans inc)........................£35 Single Oven & Grill Oven (all racks/pans inc).....£45 Single Separate Grill Oven (racks/pans inc)......£15 Microwaves & Combination Ovens....................£20 Extractor Fan (free filter for next clean).............£12 Hob..................................................................£12 . . .

Agas and Ranges priced accordingly Oven Bulbs replaced for free in all jobs V.A.T free

Contact James on: 01767 260188 or Mobile: 07812 666081 email: ovenmen@live.co.uk You can also book at www.ovenmen.com

parent company est. 1998

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Maharajah of Sandy 01767 689743/680475

OPEN 7 DAYS 5.30PM - 11.30PM 22 Market Square, Sandy SG19 1JA www.maharajahofsandy.co.uk

Available Wednesday 5.30pm to 11pm And Sunday 12.30 pm to 10pm Choose 1 item from each section Adults just £9.95 and Children Just £4.95 STARTER Shami Kebab Sheek Kebab Chicken Tikka Tandoori Chicken Chicken Chatt Chicken Pakora Vegetable Samosa Vegetable Pakora HoneyMushroom Garlic Mushroom Onion Bhajee

Exquisite, modern Indian cuisine

MAIN Lamb Pasanda Chicken Korma Chicken Tikka Mossala Lamb Dupiaza Rogan Gosth Prawn Garlic Prawn Saag Prawn Mushroom Bhoona Korahi/Chicken or Lamb Vegetable Dhansak Vegetable Rogan Malaie Chicken Komla Lamb Chicken Raipuri

Fully licensed

SIDE DISH Vegetable Curry Cauliflower Bhaji Bombay Potato Sag Bhajee Chana Massala CHOICE OF NAN OR RICE Pilau Rice Vegetable Rice Onion & Garlic Nan Peswari Nan Plain Nan

Takeaway menu available

Climate controlled

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The Unforgettable Close Up and Cabaret Magic of Steve Dean Immerse yourselves and guests in the close up magic of Steve Dean or enjoy a Cabaret Show that includes mentalism and much more.

Have you ever witnessed unexplainable events or illusions so convincing that they leave you fascinated & completely spellbound? This is Cabaret, close up mix and mingle and table magic at it’s very best.

Steve is a master of his craft and a member of the prestigious Magic Circle. He has had many letters of thanks and testimonials from people from all walks of life. From a small dinner party to performing on a British Cruise Liner this sort of entertainment is second to none and will give your guests unusual and fantastic entertainment that they can get involved in and will talk about for months to come.

(Steve is a member of Equity with full public liability insurance).

Please phone or email for details

07719 261147 • 01767 260671 www.stevedeanmagic.co.uk email: stevedeanmagic@aol.com

Magic Tuition Now Available - Phone For Details

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AWD XJ

PORSCHE CAYENNE You want a 911, but need more space and would rather have the commanding view of the road a 4x4 offers. Is the Porsche Cayenne the answer? We find out…

What is it?

It’s a Cayenne – Porsche’s roughty toughty offroader – but one that’s had a dose of steroids and some glitter liberally applied to its bodywork.

Slotting into the range between the V8 S and the Turbo, the GTS comes with more focus and power and some distinctive styling options.

What’s under the bonnet?

A rather raucous 4.8-litre V8 that’s been uprated from 394bhp to 414bhp and boasts 515Nm of torque. Performance is far from the Turbo’s though; the GTS will hit 60mph in 5.7s and go on to 162mph. It sounds pretty special getting there though! Everything else has been on the sharpening block – the steering is crisper, the eightspeed gearbox shifts quicker, and the lowered ride height gives it an added edge on the road.

What’s the kit like?

Pretty impressive, but like all Porsches you’ll soon rack up Ford Fiesta-sized bills on the options. A communications pack costs £2,157, 21-inch black alloys are £1,513 and even the red paint will set you back £1,619. Our test car had a total of £13,760 worth of goodies…ouch.

Any rivals?

The ageing Range Rover Sport puts up a pretty good fight, but we’ve never tried a Rangie that

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sounds as good as this GTS. Audi will soon be at the party with its SQ models, but that’s yet to be applied to its Q7. For a left field there’s always the Infiniti Vettel Edition, but that’s very expensive in comparison. So, not much choice out there at the moment.

Is it any good?

Although it’s incredibly quick and sounds tremendous, it can feel a little bit stressed out at times. By that we mean it feels on edge, twitchy even – perhaps the added sharpness has given it a little too much bite. However, there’s no doubting it has real presence on the road – it’s just the styling might not suit all tastes.

The verdict We like the GTS treatment given to most Porsches.

The 997 911 really benefitted from the work over, and the Panamera GTS we tried after this Cayenne worked fantastically well too. However, the offroader doesn’t feel quite right in this guise. It’s quick and sounds incredible, but feels like it’s pretending to be something that it’s not.

The knowledge Model: Porsche Cayenne GTS Price: From £67,147 Engine: 4.8-litre, petrol Power: 414bhp, 515Nm Max speed: 162mph 0-60mph: 5.7s MPG (comb’d): 26.4 Emissions: 251g/km

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PAT’S CARS

Pat Kennedy • • • • • • •

Private Hire Executive Travel Airports and Hospitals Long and Short Journeys Small Parcel Deliveries 7 Seater Barclays Pingit Mobile Payment

Blunham

T: 07714 217 112 E: pat_kennedy@o2.co.uk T: 01767 64 11 17

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ANIMAL STORIES

Is a bunny the perfect Easter present?

Although traditionally thought of as good pets for children, this isn’t the case as they’re not easy to look after well. The RSPCA stresses that there’s an enormous difference between giving an Easter egg and giving a bunny.

Chocolate eggs are delicious and their use is simple – finish them in one session, or if you have the discipline, make them last a few days.

Owning a rabbit is much more complex.

• Rabbits are sociable, playful and inquisitive – and normally prefer to live with another rabbit.

Handled every day, from an early age, your rabbits will learn to see you as a friend and companion.

Typically, rabbits live for 8-12 years, but some may live for longer.

• Rabbits are active animals so they need to be able to hop, run, jump, dig, stand fully upright on their back legs, and stretch out fully when lying down.

A hutch must never be their sole home. They also require a large, escape-proof run in which they can exercise and play.

• A rabbits’ digestive system must have hay and/or grass in order to function properly.

This also wears their teeth down – preventing dental problems because their teeth grow continuously.

• Rabbits are intelligent and need to have lots to do. Toys allow them to perform normal behaviours such as digging, chewing, chin marking and investigating.

• Rabbits should be vaccinated regularly – take them for a routine health check with your vet at least once a year.

In warm weather check them twice daily. Urine staining or stuck droppings will attract flies, which can lay eggs and cause ‘flystrike’. This is often fatal.

Also treat for external and internal parasites (eg fleas and worms) as advised by your vet.

There’s loads more to learn about rabbits on the RSPCA website, so make sure you visit www. rspca.org.uk/rabbits So, if you still want a rabbit, you’ve researched their welfare needs and you’re committed to taking care of them for the whole of their lives (not just for Easter), please think about giving a home to some of the many rescue rabbits available for adoption from the RSPCA North Bedfordshire branch.

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

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ALMOND GARAGE DOORS LTD • Servicing Bedford & Milton Keynes • New Sales • Installation • Existing Doors Automated • FREE Quotations • Spare Parts • Gate Automation Unit 1a, College Farm Oakley, Bedford, MK43 7RX info@almondgd.co.uk

 01234 828953 www.almondgaragedoors.co.uk

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St George’s Day

by DEBBIE SINGH-BHATTI He’s most famous for slaying a dragon, but how much do we know about St George, the patron saint of England?

Born in Eastern Turkey in AD 270 to Christian parents, George later moved to Palestine where he became a soldier in the Roman army.

He subsequently rebelled against the Roman Emperor for his persecution of Christians.

Imprisonment and torture followed, but George refused to denounce his Christian faith. Enraged at this, the Emperor had George dragged through the streets, and beheaded him on 23rd April AD 303.

George’s alleged encounter with the dragon occurred in Libya. The dragon is said to have built its nest by a fresh water spring and was offered sheep by townsfolk to distract him whilst collecting water. With all the sheep gone, they decided to offer a maiden instead. The lot fell on the poor crown princess, but at the moment of offering, George supposedly came by on his white

stallion, dismounted and slew the beast with his sword.

George is identified with English ideals of charity, chivalry and courage, and thus symbolises the very essence of ‘Englishness’. Campaigners are currently working to get St George’s Day recognised as a national holiday, but for now, it is traditionally celebrated by flying the English flag, wearing a red rose and singing ‘Jerusalem’ on the Sunday nearest the 23rd April!

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Gallery 1066

is bringing ROCK TO BALDOCK

Calling all Rock fans... legendary guitarist Ronnie Wood will be showcasing his spectacular collection ‘Iconic figures of Rock’ at the Gallery on the 20th and 21st of April, with a VIP preview on the 19th.

Although he is best known as the guitarist for the Rolling Stones, he has also pursued a lifelong passion for art that has won him international recognition and critical acclaim.

Wood describes his ‘awakening to art’ when as a

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child he won a competition and had his drawings featured on the BBC TV program Sketch Club.

His interest and obvious talent took him to the Ealing Art College, where coincidentally Freddie Mercury of Queen and Pete Townshend of The Who were also students.

Wood’s artwork has been successfully exhibited in Europe, America and the Far East. Inextricably linked with his musical career, it features his fellow band members and other iconic figures from the world of rock music. He has also been acknowledged at home by the British artistic establishment - Brian Sewell describes him as “accomplished” and devoted an entire program to his artwork.

Hayley Norman, Gallery Owner commented ‘We are absolutely delighted to be presenting Ronnie Wood’s remarkable collection at the gallery this year, it is a very exciting time in the art world and people are opening their eyes not only to the investment opportunities available but also to the transformation quality art can make in the home and workplace. This event is open to the public and we look forward to welcoming people to enjoy a fine art experience’.

To find out more and to reserve your place at the VIP preview event please contact the gallery on 01462 622233 or email info@gallery1066fineart.com

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Bedfordshire Crafters/Producers

create New Monthly Market Bedford Crafts, Produce & A Cuppa will be holding a new monthly community market at the Church Lane Community Centre, Church Lane, Bedford, which launches on 2nd March from 0900 until 1400.

To try and keep the Church Lane area upbeat and constantly thriving and also promote the Community Centre to be used more for events, like-minded small business crafters and producers got together to create a friendly market, with a café and child friendly activities, run by the traders for the traders and the community.

The small businesses involved all hand craft or home produce their items within Bedfordshire.

The café will be a quiet restful area for people to meet to have a “cuppa”, cake and a chat. There will also be an area close by for children to take part in leisure activities whilst their parents relax.

On the day of the launch (2nd March) each person who visits the café will get a free tea/coffee, along with a free entry to a prize draw and the children

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will take part in a free Easter egg hunt.

The event is being opened by Councillor Sylvia Gillard, which is certain to give all the small businesses involved a huge boost to know that their efforts are being supported.

Su Quinn and Zoe Haines, founder members of the group, said “we hope this new event will give people a chance to try something new and see how unique and cost effective a local, specialist market can be. Our aim was to make it somewhere people would want to come, not just to shop, but to be a part of the community.

We want to encourage all involved to become like extended family. It’s ambitious, but we hope to make it work!”

For more information contact: Zoe Haines on 07515 708876 contact@loveofcupcakes.co.uk Su Quinn on 07867 593582 su.quinn@suqudesigns.co.uk

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Bromham Windows & Home Improvements UPVC Windows & Doors, Conservatories, Fascia, Soffit & Guttering All double glazing repairs including:Broken & misty sealed units, hinges, faulty doors and locks, handles and much more.

For a free no obligation quotation call:-

01234 306662 or 07960 109429

Email: nightingale12@ntlworld.com

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Hong Kong Island

High Rise and Dragons Sail on the old Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour, just an eight minute ride from the peninsula, and Hong Kong Island greets you with its 21st century skyline, here the zigzag patterns of the Bank of China Tower, there the sensuous curves of the Convention and Exhibition Centre or the Central Plaza rising to 78 floors, framed by verdant hills.

Above these monoliths of concrete and glass, Victoria Peak looms undisturbed, like a grand old lady smiling at a mob of unruly children.

At a cool, often misty, 1810 feet, the Peak has long attracted the elite who built luxury dwellings on its upper slopes laced with gardens and wooded trails. For most visitors, the Peak begins with a steep thrilling ride on the funicular, hauled up to Victoria Gap by a single cable. The summit is out of bounds, topped with telecom masts, but weather permitting, there are unrivalled views across the harbour to Kowloon, the New Territories and a few of the 260 outlying islands which are part of Hong Kong. At night, the city below is an ocean of lights.

With a density approaching 16,000 inhabitants per square mile, the main island is an eclectic mass of humanity. Executives in pin-striped suits, fortune tellers, revellers, manicured store assistants, families on their way to the Ocean Theme Park, shoppers, tourists, the city is for ever on the move, flooding every pavement and elevated walkway, buses, trams, ferries, taxis, underground and the mid-level stairs where a string of 20 escalators carry commuters down in the morning then switch uphill for the rest of the day.

The aptly named ‘Central’ district on the north coast is the glittering seat of government,

finance and upmarket shopping, its new architectural wonders jostling for space above the last colonial buildings. There are swanky boutiques and antique shops but affordable goods in the lanes and the Chinese Emporiums brimming with handicraft. Tai Chi enthusiasts gather in Victoria Park, locals bargain for dried fish, snake bile and chopsticks and around the temples festooned in red lanterns and dragons, clouds of incense fill the air as they did long ago, giving Hong Kong its name of ‘fragrant harbour.’

Once dotted with its own incense mills, Aberdeen on the south coast has sprouted into high rise but retains a frenzied wet market and harbour where tyre-draped sampans weave past the ageing fishing fleet and the last houseboats strung with laundry. On the quayside, seafood lovers wait for the free ferry which will take them to glitzy floating restaurants, anchored on the edge of the typhoon shelter.

Beyond Aberdeen, life moves at a gentler pace as week-enders relax on the lovely beaches of Deep Water or Repulse Bay or venture to the sleepy village of Shek O in the east. Cooled by sea breezes, Shek O marks the end of the Dragon Back’s Trail, a pleasant trek along a ridge with stunning vistas of the interior country parks and South China Sea. True, Hong Kong Island thrives on banking and business but the old China survives, more discreet than on the peninsula, but coming into its own at festival time when brightly-decorated dragon boats compete in the traditional Stanley race, spurred on by drums and cheering crowds.

Solange Hando

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CODEWORD

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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.

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ELSTOW CERAMIC TILES

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Bleed Baby Bleed

by DEBBIE SINGH-BHATTI If your radiators feel cold at the top and warm at the bottom, it is likely that air trapped inside them – a common problem that can be fixed quite easily by bleeding them.

First, determine which radiators are affected.

Switch your central heating on, and then check that each radiator is heated uniformly. Any with cold spots will need bleeding. Before bleeding, turn off the central heating to prevent more air entering the system.

Bleed the radiator by inserting a bleed key (supplied with your radiator and available at DIY stores) in the bleed valve at the top of the radiator, whilst holding a cloth or small bowl underneath to catch any leaking water. With your hand wrapped in a cloth for protection, slowly turn the key anticlockwise until a hissing sound occurs. This is the trapped air escaping. Once the hissing stops and water starts to drip out (usually after a few seconds), close the valve back up.

Repeat this process for all affected radiators.

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Turn the central heating back on once finished, and check your radiators after a couple of hours to ensure they have a uniform temperature, and that no water is leaking from the bleed valve.

Do this once a year to keep your central heating in tip-top condition.

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Qualified professional engineer 25 years experience I specialise in solving your plumbing problems Tap washers to boilers All work guaranteed No job too small Your local recommended engineer

Tel: 01234 772603 Mob: 07702 481 385

Gas Safe Reg No 112449

LPG approved

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what’S ON?

IN APRIL

1 April Easter Hunt Trail 10am-3pm RSPB The Lodge, Sandy Trail sheet £2. Admission £4 per vehicle Follow the Easter trail and spot all of the pictures hidden in the woodland with a crème egg to collect when you finish!

Tel: 01767 680541 Web: www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge 1 April Easter Egghead Hunt 10.30am-4.30pm Dunstable Downs, Chilterns Gateway Centre, Whipsnade Road, Dunstable Tickets £2 (for trail and prize) plus normal admission prices Complete our trail exploring the Downs and win a yummy Cadburys chocolate egg! Booking advisable.

Tel: Chilterns Gateway Centre Shop 01582 500925 Email: dunstabledowns@nationaltrust.org.uk Web: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunstabledowns/ 3, 10, 17 & 24 April Health Walks 10.30am The Forest Centre & Millennium Country Park, Forest of Marston Vale, MK43 0PR Free, no need to book. Most walks start at Reception but some start elsewhere – Call 01234 767037 to confirm.

3, 10, 17 & 24 April Whist Club 7.30pm Great Barford Bowls Club, School Lane, Great Barford Cost £1.50 Every Wednesday. Beginners welcome.

Tel: 01767 448526 Web: www.greatbarfordbowlsclub.org.uk 4 April Fun, Facts & Craft 10am-2.45pm £2.50 per child The Forest Centre & Millennium Country Park, Forest of Marston Vale, MK43 0PR Get busy finding out about frogs with some frog-themed fun and games. Four sessions for 25 children each: 10am, 11am, 1pm and 2pm. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Bookings: 01234 767037 6 April Hardy Plant Society Talk 2pm The Wetherley Centre, Biggleswade Small charge for visitors A talk by Des Martin on ‘Woodland treasures - features a selection of mostly herbaceous plants.’ Des is the proprietor of a specialist nursery. He uses live plants which provide a hand’s on and practical introduction to the subject. Small charge applies. Tel: Winifred 01234 721720 Web: www.hpscambsandbeds.co.uk 6, 13, 20 & 27 April Petanque 10.30am Great Barford Bowls Club, School Lane, Great Barford Cost £2 per session Tel: 01767 448526 Web: www.greatbarfordbowlsclub.org.uk

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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 10 April The Wildlife Trust - Bedford Local Group 7.30 Priory Park Visitor Centre, Barkers Lane, Bedford Voluntary contribution (£2 suggested) An illustrated talk by Graham Bellamy entitled ‘Wild Orchids of Bedfordshire and the Chilterns’. All welcome. Further details available on website under ‘Events’.

Web: www.wildlifebcn.org 11 April Fun, Facts & Craft 10am-2.45pm £2.50 per child Bluebell Wood, The Forest Centre & Millennium Country Park, Forest of Marston Vale, MK43 0PR Design your own spring woodland and make a bluebell.

Find out where you can enjoy bluebell woods in the Marston Vale. Four sessions for 25 children each: 10am, 11am, 1pm and 2pm. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Bookings: 01234 767037 13 April Coffee Morning & Plant Sale 10.30am Great Barford Bowls Club, School Lane, Great Barford £1 including tea/coffee and cake Coffee morning, plant sale, stalls, cakes etc..

Tel: 01234 838539 or 01767 640311 Web: www.greatbarfordbowlsclub.org.uk 18 April Bedford RSPB Local Group Meeting 7.30pm The A.R.A. Social Club, Manton Lane, Bedford Tel: 01234 822035 Web: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford 18 April CPRE Bedfordshire’s 26th AGM 7.30pm St Mary’s Parish Church Crypt, Park Street, Woburn The AGM is followed at 8.00pm by “Hedgerows and their management” an illustrated talk by Paul Blissett (www. hedgelayer.freeserve.co.uk). The talk is open to anyone (charge of £2.50 applies to non-members) and advance booking required. Tel: 01234 353331 Email: Suzanne Yates suzanne.yates@cprebeds.org.uk or Ann Collett-White ann.cw@cprebeds.org.uk 18 April-10 May Art Exhibition Free admission Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishops Stortford Rhodes is pleased to welcome back five artists from Furneux Pelham who are exhibiting for a second year running. Paula Cherry, Nikki Simms, Tanya Roberts and Sally Anne-Latham will be joined by a fifth artist Shelley Mason. Shelly Mason will be donating 10% of any sales during the show to Brain Tumour UK. Web: www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 20 April Nearly New Sale 12 noon-4pm Great Barford Village Hall, Fishers Close, Green End Road, Great Barford Admission 50p.

Jumble and Bric-A-Brac. Refreshments will also be available. Organised by the Great Barford Village Hall Committee. Tel: Anne 01234 870395

what’S ON? IN APRIL

20 April Vauxhall Male Voice Choir Tickets £8.00 2.30pm St. Andrews Church, Ampthill The choir will be joined by local soprano soloist Kerry Watson. The programme will be a varied selection of music to suit all tastes. Tickets from Brian 01525 841077.

20 April Roll-ups and Social Evenings 6.00pm Great Barford Bowls Club, School Lane, Great Barford £1 per roll-up. Every Friday. Tel: 01767 448526 Web: www.greatbarfordbowlsclub.org.uk 21 April Biggleswade Antiques Fair 9.30am-4pm Entrance £1.50 The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Diverse range of antiques and collectables so whether you are a professional dealer, an avid collector or just looking for something special, this monthly fair is the place to visit.

Tel: 01480 382432 Web: www.madisonevents.co.uk 21 April Wedding Fayre 11am-4pm Free admission The Forest Centre & Millennium Country Park, Forest of Marston Vale, MK43 0PR Cars, cakes, wedding dresses and jewellery, hair, makeup and slimming advice – everything you need to make you on your big day.Online pre-registration recommended to skip queues on the day. Take look at our wedding packages to see how we can help you on your big day.

Tel: 01234 767037. Email: lifestyles@woocandoo.com

27 April The Return of The Cannonball Cruiser Roadshow For one night only! 7pm-midnight Great Barford Village Hall Adults £5, Children under 16 £3, Family £15 Family Disco in aid of Hearing Dogs for the Deaf. Special live guest Joseph Peacock. Bar, lucky ticket prize draw.

Entrance by ticket only. Tel: Steve 07710 308058 27 April Kempston Musical Society Concert Admission £7.00 7.30pm Kempston East Methodist Church Kempston Musical Society will be performing Karl Jenkins ‘Stabat Mater’ and the Choral Suite from ‘The Armed Man’.

Tel: 01234 781010 Email: kempstonmusicalsociety@hotmail.com 28 April Country Crafts Display 1-5pm National Trust Dovecote & Stables, Church End, Willington Open afternoon at the remains of a Tudor manorial complex, built by John Gostwick. Country Crafts display and sales. Refreshments and toilet facilities in St. Lawrence church adjacent, with organ music from 3-3.45pm.

Tel: Dorothy Jamieson 01234 404879

21 April R.A.T.S. Open Day 1.00-3.30pm Great Barford Village Hall, Green End Road, Great Barford Re-Homing Animal Telephone Service. Details of animals needing new homes. Stalls, tombola, plants and refreshments. All proceeds used for animals in our care.

Tel: 01234 871174 Web: www.rats-animalrescue.co.uk 22 April Fundraising Tea Dance 2-4.30pm The Addison Centre, Kempston £2.50 including refreshments. Tel: 01234 340997 25 April Free talk and Demonstration on Natural Energy Healing 7-9pm Blunham Village Hall, High Street, Blunham Professional HPAI Tutors coming to Blunham to run a 35 week course. Meet the tutors, ask questions and learn about the course that leads to a professional qualification to work with the public. Tel: 01767 641674 to book.

Email naturalenergy24@talktalk.net 27 April Plant Sale Free admission 10am-noon Village Hall, Keysoe To raise funds for the Village Show at Keysoe. Donated plants will be on sale as well as bric-a-brac, books, raffle, cakes and tea and coffees. Any donations gratefully received. Tel: 01234 378878 for more details

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TV AERIAL & SATELLITE SPECIALIST See our website for a comprehensive list of our services www.allbandaerials.co.uk

CALL FREE 0800 7317988 To discuss your requirements or to make an appointment

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No April Fools

odd gadgets that really exist Every year, technology firms join in the April Fools fun - so for example in recent years Google announced self-driving racing cars, Toshiba pretended to make a 3D monocle and video site Animoto offered bark recognition for dogs. Not all odd-sounding technology items are fakes, though: there are some truly strange items and accessories out there.

Some of the oddest items are related to smartphones and tablets, such as the iStuck mobile phone stand (£3) that looks like chewed bubblegum, the Knuckles iPhone case - designed to look like a knuckle duster - and the justannounced iPotty (£39), a child’s potty with a built-in iPad stand. The idea, apparently, is that letting children use iPads while on the potty will make toilet training a fun game.

Other gadgets are more sensible, but rather odd looking - such as the iPhone SLR mount, which enables you to attach enormous SLR camera lenses to your phone. It might look like a novelty item, but the price says otherwise: at the current US exchange rate, it’s £156 plus shipping and tax, and of course that doesn’t include the lenses.

The mount is available for both Nikon and Canon lenses and promises to bring SLR effects such as variable depth of field to “the camera you carry with you every day”.

Another odd-looking but fairly sensible gadget is the Handspresso Auto ESE, a portable espresso coffee maker designed for in-car use. It uses the Easy Serving Espresso pods you might have seen for ordinary domestic coffee makers, and it’s particularly handy for road warriors who’d rather not pay inflated prices for motorway service station coffees. At around £130 it isn’t cheap, but if you use it regularly it’ll soon pay for itself.

You can buy odd things for your house too, and

if you’re a musician or a fan of rock music you’ll appreciate the Marshall Fridge. From the outside it looks like the iconic Marshall amplifier stack, and it even uses authentic Marshall parts including the famous logo, fret cloth and brass-finished faceplate with knobs that go up to eleven, but inside it’s - yes! - a fridge. The manufacturer says it’s “the ultimate combination of rock and refrigeration”. Yours for £405.

Have you ever wished your fork could nag you about your eating? Good news if you have: the Hapifork (around £70) may look like an ordinary fork, but it’s stuffed with sensors that monitor how quickly you’re eating. It measures the number of times you put the fork in your mouth, the time between each serving and the total time you’ve spent eating, and vibrates and flashes if you’re eating too quickly. The data is then sent to your smartphone. For now the line-up doesn’t extend to other cutlery, but manufacturer HAPIlabs says a spoon is in development.

The HAPIfork was one of several odd gadgets shown at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, but it wasn’t the oddest: we saw GPS-enabled gadgets such as the TrakDot luggage locator (around £30 plus a £10 annual subscription), Nano Nails, which turn long fingernails into styluses for touchscreens (price tbc); the iMusic BodyRhythm, a music-powered massager that makes you look like you’re wearing a toilet seat around your neck (currently accepting pre-orders for $69, around £44), and the thoroughly odd Minime, which can create a phone case or a cuddly toy that includes a 3D rendering of your child’s face (or anybody else’s face). Expect to see Minime kiosks in shopping malls later this year.

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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 19th April 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)

Winners will be published in next month’s issue.

For the solution please visit www.beds-local.co.uk after 19th April.

Across 1 Jewels (4) 3 Allowed in (8) 9 Worried (7) 10 Annoy (5) 11 Fading away (12) 13 Deny (6) 15 Interfere (6) 17 Directions (12) 20 Ships load (5) 21 Vital part of healthy diet (7) 22 Enjoyed (8) 23 Repair (4) Down 1 Protecting (8) 2 Blends (5) 4 Dismiss (6) 5 Crossroad (12) 6 Taught (7) 7 Deceased (4) 8 Contests (12) 12 Flavoured (8) 14 Army rank (7) 16 Flexible (6) 18 Overweight (5) 19 Mark left by wound (4)

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BRICKHILL

BOOK BUG REVIEW In the Shadow of the Banyan by Vaddey Ratner Vaddey Ratner was 5 years old when the Khmer Rouge took over Cambodia. In this book she tells the story through the eyes of 7 year old Raami, but it is essentially her story and she has written it as a memorial to her father, who was disappeared in the early days of the regime.

Raami is the daughter of a Cambodian prince, a poet who inspires his daughter with poems and stories and a prime target for the Khmer Rouge, with their aim to destroy the intellectual and educated members of society and return Cambodia to its rural past. The whole family are thrown out of their home in Phnom Penh and sent to work in the countryside, but it doesn’t take long for the upheaval to become an excuse for settling old scores and self-advancement.

Raami and her family must try and hide their true identity as the regime becomes even more brutal and self serving.

Vaddey Ratner weaves Cambodian folk tales and Buddhist imagery into Raami’s story, contrasting the beauty of the country before the Khmer Rouge with the suffering and devastation that followed their take-over. The story of her survival is as inspiring as it is terrifying.

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!

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ADVERTISER INDEX Advertising Beds Local....................................................... 66

Document Preparation Michael Baxter................................................36

Architect/Structural Engineers Dixon Surveying..............................................39 Hace Consultancy............................................39

Electrical Goods/Repairs Burns Domestic............................................... 61

Architectural Salvage MFT Sales.........................................................70 Blinds Emperor Blinds................................................ 31 Builder Chris Dunne.................................................... 40

Electrician SBG Electrical...................................................67 Energy Saving BSG Solar...........................................................2 Family Services Alliance Foster Care........................................ 14

Burlesque Boutique Lady K..............................................................35

Funeral Services Arnolds.............................................................79 Molyneux Jones Family Funerals.................... 22

Care for the Elderly Howards Way.................................................. 19

Furniture Restoration/Repair KD Furniture Restoration................................70

Carpentry DC Carpentry...................................................74

Gallery/Museums Gallery 1066.....................................................58 Shuttleworth....................................... 23, 30, 54

Carpets/Flooring A&A Carpets....................................................25 Cleaning Services AromaClean..................................................... 13 Black Horse Chimney Sweep.........................73 C Brown Paving...............................................70 ChemDry- East Midlands.................................56 MPS Gardening & Cleaning............................ 46 Oven Maestro................................................. 49 Oven Men....................................................... 49 Save Your Time................................................62 Coin Collecting Cambridge Coins.............................................36 Computer Repair/Maintenance PC Problem Solver...........................................39

Garage Doors Almond Garage Doors.....................................56 Garden Services Bartlett Trees...................................................42 Beaver Sheds.................................................. 44 Brilliant Lawns.................................................43 C Brown Paving...............................................70 Driveway Doctor............................................ 44 Gilks Fencing................................................... 46 Green Thumb.................................................. 46 Home Works....................................................62 LWS..................................................................43 MPS Gardening & Cleaning............................ 46 Newbury Farm Plants......................................47 Pestaway Solutions.........................................56 TR Gardening.................................................. 44 Whites..............................................................43 4 Seasons.........................................................43

Cosmetic Dentistry Chrysalis........................................................... 16 Please mention Beds Local when responding to adverts 76

Health/Hair & Beauty Functional Fitness...........................................35 John Kaye Optometrist...................................29 Paula Whiffin....................................................35 Pulse Health Screening ..................................24

Property Maintenance cont’d Mr Fix Property Maintenance.........................67 PH Roofing Services........................................62 S Clarke............................................................ 61 TR Gardening & Property Maintenance........ 44

History Biddenham Through the Ages........................29

Public House/Restaurant Coachhouse..................................................... 10 Corner 5...........................................................20 Maharajah of Sandy....................................... 49

Handyman Just So Property Maintenance....................... 61 Mr Fix Property Maintenance.........................67 S Clarke............................................................ 61 Kitchens/Bathrooms Cromwell Stoves.............................................56 F&D Kitchens................................................... 17 Optimum Glass..................................................5 P&R Bathrooms...............................................26 QP Interiors.......................................................9 Leisure CCNB................................................................29 Magician Steve Dean.......................................................50

Removals/Deliveries Man and a Van.................................................53 Roofing Bucks Roofing..................................................75 PH Roofing Services........................................62 Security Alarm Doctor...................................................75 J Dean Security................................................73 Schools/Nurseries Bedford Girls School....................................... 19 Buckden Day Nursery......................................50

Naturist Club Blackthorns Sun Club......................................57

Solicitors J Garrard & Allen.............................................39 Sharman Law...................................................38

Painter & Decorator Craig Johnson..................................................74

Taxi Pat’s Cars.........................................................53

Plumbers Plumbing in Bedford.........................................7 Aquasure Plumbing.........................................67 The Bedford Plumbers....................................75

Tiling/Supplies Dave Moore Tiling...........................................65 Elstow Ceramics..............................................65

Property Maintenance C Brown Paving...............................................70 CP Ceilings....................................................... 61 Drain Doctor................................................... 60 Home Works....................................................62 Just So Property Maintenance....................... 61

TV/Satellite Services J Dean Security...............................................73 Windows/Conservatories Bromham Windows........................................62 Cloudy 2 Clear................................... Back Cover

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Classifieds Book Keeping / Accounts

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Education

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Studying Psychology, Sociology or Health and Social Care Need some extra help?

I can offer tutoring in:

I charge ÂŁ20.00 per hour

GCSE Psychology AS and A2 Psychology IB Psychology AS and A2 Sociology GCSE Health and Social Care AS and A2 Health and Social Care BTEC Health and Social Care levels 1 – 3

Qualified Teacher Status 2005 MA in Education with Distinction 2007 BSC Hons degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice 2:1 CRB checked

abicooke@hotmail.com

Contact Abi Speight

07813160887

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