cambridgeshire edition april 2012

VILLAGER The

Issue 37 - April 2012

and Town Life

ÂŁ25

Prize Crossword See Inside

Bringing local business to local people in and around Cambs.

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In this Issue

VILLAGER

Issue 37 - April 2012

The

and Town Life

16

£25

Prize Crossword See Inside

Cambridge Hair

Specialist Mobile Bridal Hairdresser Bringing local business to local people in and around Cambs.

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Competition Page

Advertising Sales Christa Hallam - Tel: 07868 369257 Christa@villagermag.com Additional Editorial Tony Larkins, Peter Ibbett, Pippa Greenwood, Fiona McLeman, Solange Hando, Katie Hollingworth and James Baggott Front Cover Photo: Yuritz Design and Artwork Design 9 - Tel 07762 969460 Publishers Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 261122 Email: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.

Great Prize Up for Grabs

32 St Neots

Town Centre Walk

54

Prize Crossword £25 could be yours!

A Town Team for St. Neots.................................................................................4 Burglary Operation Launched.........................................................................9 Hinchingbrooke Country Park.........................................................................9 Rogue Traders..................................................................................................... 11 The Mermaid, Ellington................................................................................... 15 Peony Hair Design............................................................................................. 22 Cambridge Career Coach............................................................................... 24 Premier Plus Funds School Crossing.......................................................... 26 Mediation - 1 Year Old in April...................................................................... 28 SERPS Ends.......................................................................................................... 30 Slugs and Snail................................................................................................... 34 Lawn Care............................................................................................................. 36 Drought Leads to Flood of Calls................................................................... 38 Safari 2012........................................................................................................... 39 Older Drivers Get a Bad Press........................................................................ 40 Children’s Page................................................................................................... 43 Seasonal Delights.............................................................................................. 45 Puzzle Page.......................................................................................................... 48 What’s On............................................................................................................. 58

16,000 copies delivered free of charge to all homes in the following areas: Hinchingbrooke, Hinchingbrooke Park, Brampton, Buckden, Offord Cluny, Offord D’arcy, Godmanchester, Hemingford Abbots and Hemingford Grey, Cambourne, Chawston, Croxton, Duloe, Graveley, Great Paxton, Hail Weston, Honeydon, Little Barford, Little Paxton, Roxton, Southoe, Staploe, Tempsford, Toseland, Upper Staploe, Wintringham, Wyboston, Yelling.

(Further bulk drops are made to local shops and busineses in Huntingdon, St Neots, Eaton Ford, Eaton Socon and Eynesbury.)

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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A ‘Town Team’ FOR ST NEOTS

BY KATIE HOLLINGWORTH

As a result of Mary Portas’ twenty eight (28) recommendations to government, funds have been made available to run ‘Town Team’ pilot schemes across the country. As such, the government is inviting applications from local partnerships and consortiums for grant funding of up to £100,000, which will be awarded to twelve towns nationally on a pilot scheme basis.

As the largest and fastest growing town in Cambridgeshire, St Neots is quickly outgrowing its existing town centre facilities. As a result there is wide recognition of the need for the town to evolve and develop in order to ensure that the town centre offer meets the demands of its rapidly expanding population. The town needs both physical and commercial regeneration if it is to address the rapid structural changes in the retail sector and consumer spending patterns.

This essential regeneration will be a process requiring a period of significant change for the town, which will only be achievable through a partnership approach. Therefore, we are keen to explore this exciting opportunity to establish a Portas style ‘Town Team’ for St Neots, to lead this process and drive innovation for the future.

Consequently, we are appealing to you - the local business leaders of St Neots - to participate in this once in a lifetime opportunity, for the future benefit of our town.

The purpose of the ‘Town Team’ would be to bring together all stakeholders with a vested interest in the future of St Neots Town Centre; to focus on delivering the change we all know the town desperately needs. Local authorities at all levels (Town, District and County) will come together on a regular basis with local landlords, large and small retailers, other town centre based businesses and service providers, local

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developers and local residents.

We are aware that many local shopkeepers and businesses will find it difficult to give up time to attend the meetings which will inevitably be necessary to determine the interests of a Town Team for St Neots. As a result St Neots Town Council and Huntingdonshire District Council will work on a collaborative basis to make an application for funding from the Portas Review Pilot scheme fund. This will not only enable the process but also facilitate the delivery of some immediate action to improve and promote the Town Centre.

One proposed use of the funding is to carry out an in-depth feasibility study of St Neots’ town centre, to determine what the users, retailers, businesses and investors of the town truly want and need. It will also provide us with the resources to carry through actions and ultimately ensure success. St Neots already has some wellestablished networks in place, but it goes without saying resources are needed to provide the town with the means to move forward. With a lack of private investment in St Neots, funding for a major study of town centre businesses needs, will inform solutions for long standing issues such as car parking, traffic management, night time economy, the size of retailer units and so on.

Having planning experts to consult and advise on how to move St Neots forward, will undoubtedly secure the future success of the town centre.

To conclude we are committed to establishing a ‘Town Team’ for St Neots, whatever the outcome of our Portas Pilot application, and hope the community will support us with this golden opportunity.

Katie Hollingworth St Neots Town Centre Manager

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QUE SERA

32 High Street, Buckden PE19 5XA More than just a gift shop

You can now buy curtain and upholstery fabrics in our shop.

Come in and browse our pattern books from

Jane Churchill - Brian Yates - Romo Designers Guild - Villa Nova - Harlequin 10% introductory discount for all orders placed in April 2012

OPEN MONDAY – SATURDAY 10am to 5pm 01480 819639 To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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Burglary operation launched

in Huntingdonshire and South Cambs Police have launched an operation following more than 200 burglaries in rural Huntingdonshire and South Cambs in the past four months.

Operation Twist will focus on tackling burglaries in rural villages in the districts.

Since November there have been 115 burglaries in Huntingdonshire and 113 in South Cambs.

Detectives believe they are part of a linked series with the offenders potentially travelling in from outside the county.

Det Insp Jon McAdam, who is leading the operation, said: “Over the past four months we have noticed an increase in burglaries in rural villages in Huntingdonshire and South Cambs which we believe is part of a linked series.”

“Operation Twist will see increase patrols in rural villages, as well as investigative and forensic work to target those responsible.”

“Releasing these figures is not about scaring people, as in reality people living in Huntingdonshire and South Cambs are less than one per cent likely to become a victim of burglary. In fact, there has been an average of one burglary a day across Huntingdonshire and South Cambs. While that sounds a lot, it is worth bearing in mind the population in Huntingdonshire is 167,300 and there are more than 69,000 homes across the area. And in South Cambs the population is 143,600 and there are more than 59,000 homes across the area.”

“However, it is important that we raise awareness of this series as the public play a vital part in helping us to prevent further offences as well as catching those responsible.”

Although a large number of offences have taken place while people have been away detectives believe offenders are targeting homes during the day, often breaking in through the rear of the property.

It is likely because of the sporadic nature of the offences that the offenders are travelling across Huntingdonshire, South Cambs and potentially other parts of Cambridgeshire targeting homes.

Det Insp McAdam added: “We are working closely with crime teams across the county as well as other forces to share information about these offences.”

“It’s important people remain alert to activity in their neighbourhood, reporting anything out of the ordinary or suspicious to police.”

“By taking simple preventative measure people

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can further reduce the risk of becoming a victim.”

To reduce the risk of being a victim: - It’s important to make your home look lived in and ask neighbours to keep an eye on it when you are not in.

Consider installing light timers. Burglars will target homes in darkness as there is less of a risk of being spotted. If the bins are due to be collected, ask your neighbours to move them on and off your drive for you.

- Report unusual activity such as people knocking at your door. If you believe someone knocking at your door could be a burglar then contact police immediately. This type of information can be used to gain a better understanding of how criminals are operating in your area.

- Keep a note of any unusual vehicles parking in your area and pass information onto the police.

Deterrents: Alarms: Install an alarm - even an empty box on the side of your home can be enough to put off a burglar.

Dogs: A `beware of the dog’ sign can be enough to put off an intruder, regardless of whether a dog is present.

Lock up your shed: Offenders do not like carrying break-in tools as they may be searched en-route to a burglary. They often raid sheds to get their hands on tools to burgle.

Strong communities are also a deterrent for burglars: Make friends with your neighbours or join your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Areas that have been targeted include: • Alconbury, Brampton, Grafham, Stilton, Great Gidding, Ellington, Buckden, Hilton, Fenstanton, Hail Weston, Easton, Needingworth , Shepreth, Over, Swavesey, Coton, Whittlesford, Balsham and Granchester

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To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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e bookings Early bird onlin May until the 31st

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Hinchingbrooke Country Park

this Easter Holidays

Did you know you have 170 acres of countryside on your doorstep? Hinchingbrooke Country Park is situated close to Hinchingbrooke Hospital, just 20 minutes walk out of the town centre and signposted from all the major roads. It is perfect for family outings, photographers, runners, wildlife lovers, mountain bikers and walkers.

The park can be explored by foot, by bike or by pushchair! The large grassy field is ideal for family gatherings to play football, enjoy a picnic or fly a kite or you can simply chill out and watch your children playing on the trim trail, swings and slide.

There are four fixed barbecue stands which are free to use and do not need to be booked, each one has a picnic bench conveniently located next to it.

You can enjoy a relaxing walk through the woods and you may be in luck and spot the greater and lesser spotted woodpeckers, the lesser being very rare nationwide! During springtime the woods are alive with birdsong so listen out for

great tits, robins, wrens, green woodpeckers and chiff-chaffs. All through spring the woodland is bursting with life – the spikes of Lords and Ladies can be seen poking through the leaf litter and the buds of the trees and shrubs are bursting into leaf, or the spiky blackthorn will blossom before the leaves emerge.

The Visitors’ Centre is the busy hub of the park with a café that is open 10am until 4pm Tuesdays - Sundays, Bank Holiday Mondays and Mondays in the local school summer holidays, come rain or shine. It sells a selection of sandwiches, toasties, home-made cakes, biscuits, drinks and ice creams.

There are also a variety of gifts on sale from greetings cards to outdoor games and animalthemed gifts. The toilets can also be found at the Visitors’ Centre, as well as maps of the site and information about the local area. If you are less mobile, you may like to borrow one of the electric wheelchairs to enable you to explore the park.

Please phone us if you would like to book these.

The Rangers offer numerous events throughout the year, from bird watching to boating, from den building to minibeast hunting. Those for April are listed in this magazine, those later in the year can be found on an events leaflet from the café or on our website; www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk/ hinchingbrookecountrypark.

Entry to the site is free with pay & display car parking charges applying from 7am – 6pm, £1 for up to 2 hours and £2 for up to 6 hours.

For enquiries either e-mail the Rangers on hinchingbrookecountrypark@huntingdonshire. gov.uk or phone us on 01480 451568.

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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THE

A wonderful event for all the family amongst other things

WEST ANGLIA COUNTRY SHOW

you’ll find Polly Parrots Roadshow, Big Kites, Heavy horse

Saturday 14 Sunday 15 April

iButho Anglo Zulu War living history group. Marquees with

open between 10:00am - 5pm each day

and miniature pony displays, Birds of prey and falconry displays, Working Gun dogs, Agility Dog Displays, Totally Terriers and Chain Saw Carving as well as many other more traditional rural demos. The Knights of Honour battle and medieval re-enactment village, the 44th East Essex (Sharpe’s) Regiment of Foot re-enactment group and the arts, crafts, lifestyle and food stands. The Events Show Kitchen cookery demos and Wine tastings too. Childrens Entertainer, bouncy castles, fairground (charges apply) Totally Ponies and Goats a Small Animal Farm to keep your

on the Showground Wood Green Godmanchester PE29 2NH

little ones engaged while you sit back enjoying a well earned

admission: £6 concessions £5 children age 5-16 £3 Family: £15 (2 adults + 2 children)

in The Companion Dog Show proceeds from which all go to

discounts available at oakleighfairs.co.uk/wgcs

cuppa or perhaps something a little more bracing and ponder how well Towser, Fido and Pongo might do on Sunday Wood Green and which is open to all dogs ... and their companions too of course!

oakleighfairs.co.uk OAK LE I G H SUPPORTING

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27Jul -12Aug

I 0800 141 2823 supported by

MAY 2012

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BEWARE

ROGUE TRADERS safelocaltrades.com urges consumers, especially the elderly and vulnerable, to be on their guard against rogue traders knocking at their door.

Each year, Trading Standards receive thousands of complaints about uninvited traders and a large majority of these relate to home maintenance work. The top five complaints are 1) Roofing 2) Tarmacing and Paving 3) Insulation 4) General Building Work 5) Burglar Alarms Owner of Safe Local Trades, Eileen Le Voi says ‘safelocaltrades.com was set up four years ago to protect consumers against ‘cowboy’ and ‘rogue traders’ by providing free access to recommended and local vetted independent traders. All members on our register are CRB checked, vetted and approved, abide by a Service Charter and are rated on an on-going basis. 9 out of 10 people rely on personal recommendations and with over 3,500 reviews on www.safelocaltrades.com, people can make a safe informed choice.

Rogue doorstep trading is an ongoing problem and work or service carried out can sometimes be unnecessary, of a poor standard, much more expensive than originally quoted, or not done at all. It is important that people have the confidence to say no to doorstep traders and take the time to think about the service being offered.’

The following is advice on how people can avoid being scammed by rogue doorstep traders: • Be cautious; if a trader knocks at your door do not agree to on the spot house repairs without taking advice.

• Be wary of special offers or warnings that your house is unsafe.

• Do not make snap decisions. Take time to talk to family or neighbours before you make a decision.

• Use www.safelocaltrades.com to source a reputable tradesman or call free on 0800 014 1832

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To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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A FAMILY AFFAIR

KIMBOLTON CASTLE

The Kimbolton Country Fayre has, without doubt, become the premier fayre in the County providing a full day’s entertainment for all the family.

The fayre is organised by a committee of volunteers (although it sometimes seems to be compulsory!).

We are already advanced in our preparations for this year and hope there won’t be too many last minute “dramas” to contend with.

This year, the main charities that we will be supporting are HemiHelp, The Burns Camp, Cancer Research UK, The Samuel Pepys School and The East Anglia Air Ambulance.

The organisers hope you will come along on the 15th July, not only to support our very worthy causes but to have a great family day out too.

For more details, please check our website www.kimboltoncountryfayre.com 12

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DAY TICKETS FROM £19 + booking fee in adv (Sat, Sun or Mon) inc. paddock access & parking

FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY!

6th - 9th APRIL 2012, SANTA POD RACEWAY High Octane action & Pro Fuel shootout with Top Fuel Dragsters & Funny Cars!

Explosive Jet Cars & Live Action Arena antics with Monster Trucks & stunts! (Sat/Sun/Mon) MONSTER

TRUCK

MADNESS ON EASTER MONDAY WITH FOUR TRUCK JUMP OFF

KIDS UNDER 16

WWW.SANTAPOD.COM GO FREE!

†

(max 3 per adult

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)

Santa Pod Raceway, Airfield Road, Podington, Nr. Wellingborough, Northants NN29 7XA. Signposted from J14/15 M1. Tel: 01234 782828

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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THE MERMAID

ELLINGTON

Situated in the quiet Cambridgeshire village of Ellington is The Mermaid Inn. Its earliest foundations were laid in the late 13th or early 14th century and the building then was used as lodging for the stone masons who were building the church next door.

The building has evolved many times since then to what it is today, an exemplary example of the quintessential ‘Village Pub’. The Mermaid Inn gets its name from the many exposed beams that were previously the masts of decommissioned ships.

The Landlord, Andrew Burton, has kept with the nostalgia of the beams adding bright horse brass and rustic furniture to the décor. Everything about this pub invites you to come in, find a seat by the fire and to relax in the atmosphere of what a village pub should be.

Located just two miles from Grafham Water, The Mermaid Inn is the perfect place to relax after a day fishing, sailing, walking or biking. Wanting more than a day? The Mermaid Inn also offers Bed and Breakfast, with two comfortable rooms available to you.

As well as Landlord, Andrew is resident chef and takes as much time with his food as he does with his real ale. The bar has three guest ale spots that change to offer new taste experiences along with old favorites.

Real ale is not the only star of this bar, however, The Mermaid Inn boasts an extensive wine list, premium lagers and cider as well as a full compliment of soft drinks for those teetotal days. The menu features ethically, seasonally and locally sourced produce and meat and all meals are prepared in-house with the utmost attention to detail. There is truly something to tempt everyone, whether looking for a quick barsnack, an intimate dinner or a group celebration.

THE MERMAID ELLINGTON 01480 891450 BED AND BREAKFAST Lunch Served 7 Days Dinner Served 6 Evening (Not Sunday Evening) Home Cooked Food With Local Produce Sunday Roasts Quality Real Ales Wide Range of Wines ‘Takeaway’ Food Menu ‘Takeaway’ Draught Beers To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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CAMBRIDGE HAIR

SPECIALIST MOBILE BRIDAL HAIRDRESSING Hello, my name is Tracey - owner and stylist at Cambridge Hair. My passion for hairdressing stems from an early age, attaining Level 3 City & Guilds qualifications, and further diplomas in colouring techniques from well respect institutes (L’Oreal, Schwarzkopf). Since, I have accumulated over 15 years experience working at a number of high street salons in Cambridge.

I created Cambridge Hair, because I wanted to offer clients a premium grade service at reasonable rates. I believe that getting your perfect cut should not be dictated by the price level of the salon, but also availability to those on more modest budgets.

Since establishing Cambridge Hair in 2007, I have been offering my cuts, colours and wedding hair services to an ever expanding client base.

My speciality lies in bridal hair, colours using professional grade products, and cuts using razor techniques. I love applying my abundant skills to produce new styles and meet my client’s lifestyle requirements. My passion lies in creating something perfect and beautiful, whether it is a simple cut or a full bridal hair up.

For me, weddings are the most rewarding part of what I do. Making the bride look absolutely perfect, ready to walk the aisle, and seeing all the smiling faces, brings a truly magical feeling.

The bride’s intended style, theme, and each intricate detail of the hair up are all crucial aspects

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I love so much. Such specifics must be considered at all times to obtain the complete finished look.

Being a Mobile Stylist means hair ups can be performed at a venue most convenient for the wedding, making everyone’s life easier.

Wedding Hair Trials are absolutely essential to achieving the style that suits your individual personality. It is an opportunity to see how any tiara or veil incorporates with your look.

Additionally, it identifies the complexity of the chosen design, and thus the time allocation for your big day.

And remember, your bridesmaids may have ideas, so you might want them present during your trial for some valuable opinions.

My work is better described in pictures than in words, so please take a look at my website to find out more. On there you will find many pictures of cuts and hair ups, to give you an idea of my standard of work. You can also read some of the feedback given by my clients too.

I am always happy to discuss the various options and offer guidance on wedding hair arrangements.

If you are looking for a professional, articulate, and more importantly reliable stylist for your all important day, then do get in touch with me to see how I can help.

Thank you for looking.

Tracey ww.cambridgehair.co.uk

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Cambridge Hair Specialists in mobile bridal hairdressing

01954 214428 07789 001156

www.cambridgehair.co.uk tracy A5 v2.indd 2

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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22/01/2012 22:39

Discover the new Allen Phillips St Neots’ leading family-owned independent shoe and accessories store has a host of new brands.

Brands like Base, Front, Havaianas, Birkenstock, Rocket Dog, Fitflop, Rapisardi, Ballerinas, Chatham, Scholl and Fish n’ Chips.

Plus our top selection from favourite tried and tested brands like Hotter, Josef Seibel, Rieker, Hush Puppies, Riva and Lotus, There’s so much to choose from.

Great shoes... ...great service 8-10 High Street, St Neots 01480 219187 SMA WArdrobeS, transform your home with sliding door wardrobes and matching bedroom furniture > Floor to ceiling storage > Large range of styles - modern and traditional > Made to Measure > Fully guaranteed > Affordable fitted wardrobes "Fantastic job, brilliant service. You have exceeded my expectations. Thank you."

Mr C, Cambridge

Visit our website or phone for a free colour brochure and price list: www.sma-wardrobes.co.uk, 01480 417415

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Brampton Chiropractic Clinic 84 High Street, Brampton PE28 4TH DR NEIL BROE, DC and Assoc Registered with the General Chiropractic Council Members of the British Chiropractic Association Over 30 years experience A gentle but specific form of manipulation.

Treating the cause of the problem ..... so Often the Answer • Back, Hip and Leg Pain • Headaches, Migraines • Cranial Therapy • Sinuses • Neck, Arm and Shoulder Pain • Muscle Ligament and Tendon Injuries • Paediatric Care

01480 436435

10% discount on initial visit www.chiropractorshuntingdon.co.uk www.brampton-chiropracticclinic.co.uk

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

21

Peony Hair Design

COLOUR SPECIALIST SALON Are you one of those people who always mean to take time out to pamper yourself but never seem to get around to it? Bath, magazine, face mask, conditioning treatment on your hair…sounds bliss doesn’t it. For most of us though, that time out never becomes a reality as other things always take priority.

Why not make the change this month and book yourself some “me time” at peony hair design.

Add one of our amazing Redken conditioning treatments to your appointment and indulge in some ultimate luxury, and what’s more the benefits will last in your hair for several shampoos after your visit. We offer a choice of two treatment options, an express chemistry shot treatment or a luxury shot and mask combo. For both options your stylist will create a bespoke “medicine” for your hair at the shot phase, with options for smoothing frizzy, unruly hair, adding deep moisture, preventing colour fade and strengthening weakened hair. We can cocktail these to meet all your hairs needs. These shots travel deep into the core of your hair where its natural moisture and proteins are and are then locked in by our fix phase and take about five minutes. If time is short you can stop there or if a little bit of luxury is your thing then follow the shot and fix phase up with a deep conditioning mask. Redken masks work in the protective layers of the hair seven times deeper than a regular conditioner, smoothing and softening and leaving the hair feeling softy shiny and silky.

These are left on the hair for 10 minutes while you take the time with a coffee and magazine or just a reclining snooze. These treatment are compatible with any other service we offer so its up to you, blowdry, style maintenance, new look, colour, whatever takes your fancy….

With stress free complimentary parking your visit can begin without the hassle of finding a car park space or hunting for change in the bottom of your handbag and there is no need to clock watch during your visit either. Our expert staff have the skill and knowledge to listen to your needs and ensure you walk out feeling a million dollars so there is no need for those pre salon nerves we so often hear about from our new clients. Please take a look at our testimonials on thebestofstneots.co.uk to find out what our clients really think about us.

SPECIAL OFFER

Free chemistry shot treatment with this ad Normally £5, upgrade to a shot and mask combo for £5, normally £8.50.

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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 and completely spellbound?

This is Cabaret, close up mix and mingle and table magic at it’s very best.

Not only enter the unbelievable world of close up professional magic that is second to none, you can now see a cabaret show that will leave you gasping, your guests enthralled and audience participation that is not only professional but will cause laughter throughout and will be something to remember for a very long time.

This is ideal for any corporate or private event.

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

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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LISA LOGAN

CAMBRIDGE CAREER COACH finding work. I give them all the tools through coaching and mentoring in order to be able to go out there and secure their own work and get the satisfaction of knowing that they have done it themselves with my help.’

Lisa offers 3 packages all of which can be interchanged in order to tailor a package to suit the client’s specific requirements. ‘I also offer a one hour one to one consultation before deciding on a package so that the client can discuss what direction they want to go in and I can give them some advice on what I think may be best.’

With the unemployment rate now standing at a staggering 2.62 million in the UK, more and more people are finding it harder to secure jobs than ever before.

Cambourne Career Coach was started up

by Lisa Logan in 2011 and she services the Cambridgeshire area. Her clients include those who have just graduated from College through to those who are just wishing for a new career opportunity or a different career field altogether.

Lisa explains ‘I have been working in recruitment for over 14 years and I have been lucky enough to work for companies that I believe service the needs of clients and candidates equally. Unfortunately, there are some recruitment companies out there that do not take into consideration the candidates needs or desires and simply place people for the money and to hit targets! However, ALL agencies to a certain extent tend to neglect the candidates who do not fit into the mainstream recruitment mould. That is why I decided to start up as a career coach.

To me, every candidate is important and their needs and aspirations are of top priority. Every person I work with has 100% dedication of my time and effort to help them in every aspect of 24

For more information on the packages and pricing please contact Lisa on 07957 986725 or email cambournecareercoach@googlemail.com

Cambourne Career Coach • Over 15 years experience coaching people into new careers and jobs from CV writing and preparation for interview through to actually searching for the right job and securing your dream role.

• Previous clients have been mums returning to work, students and people who have been made redundant.

• Everyone welcome from the unemployed to those looking for a new challenge.

• Bronze, Silver and Gold packages available tailored to suit all budgets.

• Initial one to one consultations available.

Call Lisa on 07957 986725 for more information or email cambournecareercoach@googlemail.com

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To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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Premierplus First to privately

fund school crossing Patrol for St Neots The first privately-funded school crossing patrol in Cambridgeshire has started work helping children cross the road in St Neots.

Premier Plus Ltd., independent financial advisers, contacted Cambridge County Council and has negotiated a 12 month deal for the project.

The new patrol will help children from Crosshall School cross the Great North Road from 27th February 2012 The sponsorship deal, worth £4,000 a year, means the company’s name and phone number will feature on the back of the school crossing patrol’s jacket all year round.

Premier Plus Managing Director Kevin Hull added: “We are a locally based company and wanted to make a contribution to the

community. Road safety is the responsibility of us all, especially with regard to children.

We are pleased that our initiative will ensure the presence of a school crossing patrol at Crosshall Road for some time to come.”

Throughout life financial planning Better advice from your local friendly independent financial advisor

01480 477774 free initial consultation Fenice Court, Phoenix Park, Eaton Socon, St Neots, Cambridgeshire PE19 8EP Email: enquiries@premierplusltd.co.uk Web: www.premierplusltd.co.uk 26

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If you run your own business, are currently selfemployed or have a tax return to complete, you may be paying too much tax.

We are offering a FREE meeting to discuss this further.You have nothing to lose by finding out how much you could be saving.

Call Richard McMorran on 01480 470755 or email stneots@rjmcmorran.co.uk Offices with ample parking in Eaton Socon and Godmanchester Visit our website at www.rjmcmorran.co.uk

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27

Mediation - 1 year old in April?

Fiona McLeman Family Law It has been almost a year since the Government focused on Mediation for separating families and introduced a new requirement for any separating couple. Any one embarking on proceedings through the court as of April 2011 must first attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting also known as a (MIAM).

Mediation is an out of court process in which couples talk to each other away from lawyers and from the court room to help them come to an agreement about issues such as children, money, property, income and pensions. Each party usually continues to take advice from their own lawyer but they are not obliged to. Furthermore, the lawyers do not attend the Mediation sessions.

Clients attend Mediation alone but can talk to their lawyer about the issues that are going to be discussed and obtain legal advice as to their rights and responsibilities. The Mediator will not offer any advice but will support the couple in a neutral and impartial capacity. The Mediator will help the couple look at all options and work with them to come to an agreement.

All discussions at Mediation are ‘without prejudice’. This means couples can talk freely about outcomes without being tied to those ideas if Mediation fails and the Court has to make a decision. Once an agreement is reached, this can be set out in an agreement which can also be approved by the Court.

It is commendable that the government are encouraging separating parties to resolve

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their differences away from Court. However, Mediation is not the ‘new kid on the block’ and certainly not in Cambridge. We are very fortunate here as couples have been attending Mediation for decades, using excellent facilities such as Cambridge Family Mediation Service (01223 576308). Many lawyers are also mediators and offer mediation as part of their service. Other out of court services such as Collaborative Law have also been available in Cambridge for many years and many lawyers here were the first in the country to train as collaborative lawyers and offer the collaborative model to clients.

For those couples who are unable to resolve matters out of court, they must first attend a MIAM before applying to the Court for a determination.

The MIAM involves them attending a meeting with a Mediator who will advise them about out of court options before then being able to authorise their ability to apply to court. MIAMs may be enjoying their first birthday this month but Mediation services continue to mature with dignity and grace in Cambridge.

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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 including extensions, loft/garage conversions, garages and outbuildings through to new build dwellings 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.

Dedicated support for clients in relationship breakdown:

• • • • •

Separation Financial Settlements Change of Name Prenuptial Agreements Mediation

• • • • •

Divorce Living together agreements Adoption Children issues Collaborative family law

Fiona McLeman Family Law is accredited by Resolution and the Solicitors Regulation Authority as a Specialist in Family Law. For a free initial consultation contact Fiona:

fiona@fmfamilylaw.co.uk, 07894095775, www.fmfamilylaw.co.uk Regus House, 1010 Cambourne Business Park, Cambourne CB23 6DP

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29

SERPS ENDS

BEACON FINANCIAL SERPS stands for State Earnings Related Pension Scheme and it took over from it’s predecessor, the Graduated Pension Scheme.

SERPS was itself superseded by S2P (State Second Pension), but most people still think of this as SERPS. April 6th 2012 will see the end of contracting out and funds totalling between £75bn and £100bn will be available for plan holders to use in a far more varied way.

Contracting Out or ‘Protected Rights’ will be put on the same footing as other pensions and a huge demand is expected for financial advisers with specialist pensions experience.

As individuals have not directly contributed their money to these polices, these plans are often over looked and undervalued.

Many pension companies have automatically contracted policy holders back into the State Scheme over the last few years, but now is the time to review these funds and consider the increased options now available.

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

2012 looks as though it is going to be a busy year for us and others like us because: 1) As mentioned, SERPS money can now be used differently 2) Free life cover is currently available for those with children under 6 months old 3) Many advisers intend to retire prior to 31st December when new minimum qualifications rules come in So, why not be one of the first to benefit from the new pension rules. What have you got to lose? It’s not often the Govt. makes things better and I think this time it was by default rather than intention, so it may not last. After all, the Govt. quickly backtracked on the generous solar allowances. You have been warned!

Speak to your pension adviser as soon as possible.

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

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COMPETITION • COMPETITION WIN a Family Swim Pass 4 to Give away!

Just answer the following question to be in with a chance of winning.

How many One Leisure swimming pools are there?

Please send your entries to the address below by Fri 20th April 2012.

One Leisure Competition Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP The Winner will be drawn at random

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31

St. Neots

Town Centre Walk

St. Neots is the Jewel of the Great Ouse Valley.

This charming market town has its own unique character and heritage which you can enjoy with a walk around its centre whilst enjoying the wide range of shops as well as its award winning museum.

In Stone Age times wandering groups of humans came to drink and catch fish here by the River Ouse. Eventually small settlements grew up at Eynesbury and at the Eatons, which were eventually taken over by the Saxons after the Roman encampment at Eynesbury was abandoned. The Danes came up the river towards Bedford and were pushed back by the Saxons, inspired by the resistance of King Alfred. The Normans set up a Priory in Eynesbury, which eventually gave its name to a new town.

Medieval traders based around the market area provided the prosperity to build a fine church. The Tudor, Stuart, Georgian and Victorian eras have all left their mark on the work begun by the French monks imported by Richard and Rohais de Clare after the Norman Conquest. Many feet have paused to enjoy this river view.

Behind the modern Priory Centre you can 32

find easy parking and access to a range of shopping from supermarkets to small specialist businesses in attractive settings such as the Cross Keys and Fischer’s yards as well restaurants, pubs and family dining.

In the centre of the fine market square, one of the largest in the country, is the Day Column.

This cast iron structure was erected in 1822

by John Day, a local brewer, to enhance the market square and to provide lighting. The market square has been used since 1135, when the monks of the Benedictine Priory, which stood behind the Lloyds Bank side of the square, were granted a market charter.

By 1204 the new town of St. Neots had split away from its mother parish of Eynesbury. The stalls which were set up near the priory walls were the fore-runners of the present shops and inns.

It is appropriate that a French Market is occasionally held here as the Norman Priory was originally staffed by monks from the Abbey of Bec in Normandy. Come and enjoy

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the Thursday Market and the regular Farmers Markets and relax in the nearby Riverside Park.

St Mary’s Church was rebuilt in its present form in the 15th century and is nick-named “the Cathedral of Huntingdonshire” because of its impressive architecture. The first parish church on the site was built in the 12th Century and there are traces of 13th and 14th century work inside. The fine 130ft Somerset style tower has a fine peal of bells, and inside there are many interesting carvings on the roof timbers. If open do take the time to look inside and enjoy its unique features. A guide to the Church is available for visitors. Looking along the path past the Church porch and before you reach Church Street there used to be a small recess in the churchyard where once stood the town’s stocks and whipping post. They were last used in 1824.

Different capping on the churchyard wall shows where the wall was extended to cross the gap. Opposite is the 19th Century flint and brick vicarage. To the left is the red brick wall that once surrounded Hall Place, an 18th century mansion. Two gateways survive, one with gates in elaborate wrought iron. In the 1960’s an archaeological dig revealed a large

Anglo-Saxon settlement in the area to the east of the wall. In 2007/08 excavations revealed house foundations near the gate.

On the corner of Church Walk is a delightful timber framed building. It is probably the oldest secular structure in the town, probably dating from the 15th century. It lay concealed for many years under a brick frontage but has since been restored to reveal its fine timbers and the wheat sheaf carving on its jettied upper storey. The High Street offers a good range of shops including attractive specialist outlets tucked away in yards and alleyways off the main street.

The information in this article has been taken from a full walk around the town centre which you can find on the Villager Web Site. You can also find up to date information on events and activities in the town via www.st.neots-tc.gov. uk and www.st.neotsmuseum.org.uk. Don’t forget to visit the award winning museum which formerly a Police Station & Magistrates Court whose 1907 prison cells form part of its display. It has two floors of displays and you can often enjoy one of the regular special exhibitions as well as picking up guides and information about the local area.

Contact pjibbett@aol.com for information about local walks and talks.

Support your local communities by using their shops and facilities

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33

Slugs and Snails

By Pippa Greenwood This is the time of year when you’re likely to start to notice the presence of slugs and snails in your garden, greenhouse, coldframe, window box.... indeed just about everywhere.

It never ceases to amaze me how much damage something as small as a slug can do and in such a short space of time. But then the truth of it is, there is never just one slug or one snail, you can always be sure that there will be hoards of them.

I garden on clay and our soil is alkaline and so we have a plentiful supply of snails; if you garden on an acidic soil you will generally find that snails are not a problem as they need the calcium to make their shells.

To say that they infuriate me would be an understatement, but the type I hate most are those small grey-black keeled slugs that do such a lot of damage to crops such as potatoes. I garden without chemicals so there is no question of using pellets, but I have tried pretty well every other trick in the book.

I use the biological control nematode Phasmarhabdites hermaphrodita. Although quite expensive it works brilliantly against slugs and poses no environmental problems. If you time the applications so that the crops, flowers or other plants are protected while they are at their most vulnerable, then it shouldn’t be too much of an outlay.

Slug and snail traps also work well, whether you buy your own ‘Slug Pubs’ or make them by plunging plastic beakers into the soil close to susceptible plants and then part filling them with beer. I once did a mini trial on Gardeners’ Question Time to see which beers slugs and snails liked best, and Guinness came out tops.... with alcohol-free lager proving least popular!

I also find that stale milk works well and if you add a small quantity of grain or porridge oats to the liquid, the pests come in at an amazing rate.

Make sure that you leave a centimetre or so of the rim of the beaker protruding above the soil level so that beneficial creatures such as ground beetles don’t fall in.

If you create barriers around plants this can help, but I find it less reliable. My preferred materials are coco-shell, pine needles and crushed shells.

But whatever you use do remember to put a complete circle around the base of the plant,

34

not just a ring or the slugs may simply come up inside the ring and of course check it regularly, replenishing the material as necessary.

So before they start to really get a hold, show them who is boss, and take action straight away: Encourage wildlife such as ground beetles, birds and hedgehogs Create barriers around particularly susceptible plants.

Buy or make slug traps.

If growing potatoes concentrate on earlies and lift these as soon as possible, and grow varieties that show some resistance to attack.

Use the biological control as a soil drench to control slugs (not snails) Attach copper strip around the circumference of pots containing slug susceptible plants.

Go on night-time slug and snail hunts.

In late autumn collect up snails from their hibernating places.

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood. com and make Veg Growing Easy. Just select the vegetables you’d like to grow and you’ll receive garden ready veg plants PLUS every week Pippa emails you hints, tips and advice about your chosen veg. From just £39 for up to 66 gardenready plants, 6 packets of seed and the weekly emails. Pippa’s website now also offers a great selection of growing frames, cloches, raised bed kits and biological controls.

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35

LAWN CARE

FOR April

Mowing Mow at least once a week now. Make sure mower has been serviced and blade replaced or sharpened.

Fertiliser This is the time to feed and weed (preferably in that order). The fertiliser is predominately Nitrogen in a slow release form, but it may also need Phosphate and Potassium as well as vital trace elements to promote a vibrant lawn.

Weed Control Once the weeds and grass are actively growing a selective herbicide to kill broad leaved weeds such as dandelions, daisies and clover within the grass can be applied.

Patio/Driveway Weed Control Weeds can look unsightly at this time of year in patios and driveways. We can spray a total weed killer to kill them and keep weed free for up to 6 months.

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Actions required in Spring • Mow Lawn At Least Once Per Week.

• Apply Spring Fertiliser To Produce Vibrant Green Lawn • Spray Weeds In Lawn With Selective Herbicide • Spray Drive/Path/Patios With Total Herbicide To Keep Weed Free For Summer Call Deborah or Richard : 01480 812393 e-mail - info@prolawncare.co.uk

Reader Offer

Book up for a Weed Control Treatment and we’ll apply the Spring Fertiliser FREE OF CHARGE. (Existing customers will receive an additional treatment free of charge too).

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GILKS FENCING LTD Supplying of all types of gates and fencing to trade and public.

•Closeboard Fencing • TGV Gates • Trellis Made to Customers Design • Lap Panel Fencing • Railings • Chain Link • Knee Rail Fencing • Concrete Slotted Posts • Professional Installation Available

Unique Landscape We specialise in

Patios, Fencing, Clear Ups Turf Laying, Hedge Trimming Tree Cutting, Tree Felling, Planting, Pruning, Driveways ...and much more

Free Quotations Reliable Friendly Service Unit 2, 1 Stockton End, Off Sunderland Road, Sandy, Beds SG19 1SB Tel: 01767 681746 Fax: 01767 681776 www.gilksfencing.co.uk Email: gilksfencing@hotmail.com

Mob: 07717 760851 Office: 01480 434401 e:sales@uniquelandscape.co.uk

www.uniquelandscapes-huntingdon.co.uk

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37

DROUGHT LEADS TO FLOOD OF CALLS

TO LAWN EXPERTS

With recent press coverage regarding low reservoir levels and impending hosepipe bans, a lawn treatment company in Bedford and Huntingdon has developed an amazing way of keeping garden lawns greener for longer in 2012.

GreenThumb Three Shires has devised a special water-preserving treatment they claim can prevent a lawn turning brown during a drought. And they have been swamped by customers wanting this service.

The secret is a special water-conserving spray, which will direct the smallest amounts of water – from morning dew or spots of rain – down to the grass roots.

The technology was originally pioneered on golf courses in the USA, but GreenThumb experts have been testing this wonder spray on all kinds of lawns.

It even works on clay soils, which normally bake hard during a hot summer causing any moisture to run straight off without giving any nourishment to the roots.

Nic Hodge of GreenThumb said: “Our moistureretaining agent can be sprayed on the lawn in one application and it is still not too late to have it done.”

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“Then in the dry summer months the water conserver will help direct any moisture down to the root system and keep your grass lush.”

He added: “It will really aid the retention of water at the root zone. This product also helps combat a turf disorder known as ‘dry patch’, where bacteria cause the lawn to become hydrophobic, which means that it repels moisture.”

“No matter how much water you put on an area affected by dry patch, the soil will repel it. But with this treatment water will get into the roots and the grass will recover.”

GreenThumb’s water conserver treatment starts from as little as £30.00 for a lawn up to 60m2.

GreenThumb also offers this treatment within one of their Direct Debit treatment programmes, starting at just £11.25 per month.

If you would like to find out more about GreenThumb and our amazing treatments and treatment programmes, call GreenThumb Three Shires today on 01234 709345) or find us online at www.greenthumb.co.uk

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Can I go to the Paddocks for my Holiday please?

Paddocks Boarding Cattery Peaceful location. No dogs boarded.

Spacious, individual, heated chalets with large covered runs.

Inspection welcome. Boarding from £6.00/day.

Rabbits/guinea pigs also boarded.

64 Meadow Road, Great Gransden

Telephone 01767 677 759 www.catterybedfordshire.co.uk Open all year.

The cattery for caring owners.

Comfort and security for your pet.

Safari 2012

sponsored walk aT Grafham Water Last year’s Annual Safari Walk, a sponsored walk around Grafham Water, organised by the local Lions Club, raised almost £10,000 for local charities. The main beneficiaries were: - The Upside Down Club, who won the Lions Charity Shield, for the most money collected by a group, Macmillan Cancer Support and Acorn Cancer Support Group, St Neots. The Lions charity, Help for Heroes received £4300.

A further 12 groups were represented on the walk, held annually on the third Sunday in May. This year’s walk will take place on Sunday 20th May and any groups or individuals interested in taking part should contact Lion Bernard Dable on 01480 810704.

This will be the 33rd year that the local Lions Club have organised the sponsored walk and they hope for plenty of interest from local Charities and Clubs trying to raise money for their own worthy cause. Walkers retain 90% of the money raised and 10% is donated to the Lions Club for

their chosen charity, which this year is Caresco, Sawtry.

CARESCO is a village charity providing day care for the elderly in the community, a print shop, a drop-in coffee shop & a nearly new clothes shop and the Sawtry Eye magazine, all with the help of volunteers.

The Lions Club deal with all the organisation required for a successful day, all participants need do is to obtain sponsors, do the walk and collect the money.

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39

Safety Groups Say Older Drivers

Get A ‘Bad Press’

Road safety organisations have said forcing elderly drivers to retake their test when they reach a certain age is not the best way to improve road safety.

There has been a recent spate of accidents involving older drivers who police have claimed were not fit to hold a licence.

One accident saw a 16-year-old girl killed by an 87-year-old driver who swerved onto the pavement in Colchester, Essex crushing the girl against a wall.

Police had asked the driver to give up his licence three days before the fatal crash after he was involved in a separate crash, an inquest heard.

However, road safety groups have told us that they think incidents involving elderly drivers are more widely reported in the press – heightening the public’s negative perception of older drivers.

“Older drivers do of course make mistakes as do all older people, said Adrian Walsh, director of charity RoadSafe. “There is evidence to show that risk increases as drivers get older, but the type of error is quite different from young drivers – most of them are to do with errors of judgement rather than breaches of the law and most are ‘lapses’. One thing is quite clear – older drivers take less risks.”

Andrew Howard, head of road safety at The AA, agreed, adding: “It is very difficult to base decisions about older drivers on the more outrageous accidents that they have. After all we don’t base our rules on all young drivers around those who pinch cars, speed or drive stupidly to impress their friends.

“By and large, most older drivers are safe drivers.

Risk curves fall from teenage to late 40s and only really begin to turn up again by late 60s/early 70s and sharply by 80s. Even then they struggle to have a risk level challenging the youngest (and fittest) drivers.”

Howard added that stopping older people driving would have immense costs too – both personally and to the economy as other forms of transport would have to be funded.

The Institute of Advanced Motorists said they think older drivers get an “unfair press”.

“In terms of the number of crashes they have they are one of the safest groups on the road and far safer than young drivers between the ages of 1724,” said the IAM’s Neil Greig. “When an older driver knocks down a pedestrian or drives the wrong way up a dual carriageway they get banner headlines and calls for tough retests. The vast majority of older drivers are responsible adults who know their weaknesses and change their driving to cope with

40

them.”

The IAM wants to see voluntary assessments made widely available, such as its DriveCheck55, where drivers can refresh their skills, discuss the high risk factors and get an independent assessment without fear of losing their licence.

Meanwhile, Professor Stephen Glaister, director of the RAC Foundation, said there is no evidence older drivers have more accidents.

“In fact their safety record is better than that of many young drivers - but their frailty means that when they are involved in collisions they are more likely to be killed or seriously injured,” he explained.

“Rather than introducing compulsory retesting for older drivers, we would like to see the greater promotion of voluntary refresher courses. Insurance policies which offer discounts to older drivers who do not drive at the riskiest times – such as at night – and on the most dangerous roads would also help.”

By James Baggott, editor of Car Dealer Magazine (CarDealerMag.co.uk)

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15% DISCOUNT ON ALL WORK CARRIED OUT OVER £50 WITH THIS ADVERT

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43

Fruitvegboxcambs@aol.com Tel: 07880 644 321 Healthy fresh seasonal produce sourced locally Boxes/Hampers prepared to your specification and delivered Fruit, veg, salads, honey, cakes, bread, milk and eggs Cut flowers and plants Bird food, animal feed & bedding, chicken food, chicken houses, charcoal, coal £6.50, logs £3.50 Good quality hay (horses/guinea pigs/rabbits/chickens etc) £5.50/bale Horse carrots £2.50, Horse manure Cricket T shirts, Cricket wear/memorabilia Regular stalls held at Huntingdon Commemoration Hall every Friday Indoor Village Hall Market : Comberton and Wimpole Village Hall monthly Markets Dry Drayton Village Hall Market - 12/5/2012

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SEASONAL DELIGHTS

Easter Chocolate Mousse Cake Perfect for a special Easter Sunday meal this indulgent dessert has a chocolate sponge base, creamy white chocolate mousse filling and a rich and dark chocolate glaze. It can be prepared the day before or made a couple of weeks in advance and frozen.

Serves 4 Ready in 1 ¼ hours plus 3 - 4 hours chilling

Ingredients

BASE • 3 eggs • 70g caster sugar • 50g plain flour • 2 tbsp cocoa powder MOUSSE • 2 x 150g bars good quality white chocolate, broken into pieces • 3 tbsp milk • 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 300ml double cream • 3 large egg whites • 2 tsp powdered gelatine GLAZE • 85g plain chocolate • 20g unsalted butter • 4 tbsp double cream • Melted white chocolate and small candy coated chocolate eggs, to decorate

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas 4. Grease and line the base of a 20 cm round spring-form tin. To make the base, whisk the eggs and sugar together in a large heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water until very thick and pale – the whisk should leave a trail in the mixture when lifted.

2. Sift over the flour and cocoa and fold in gently. Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 12-15 minutes until just springy to the touch. Turn out and leave to cool completely. Clean the tin and lightly grease and re-line the base. Place the cold sponge in the base of the tin.

3. To make the mousse, place the white chocolate, milk and vanilla extract in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water and leave until melted. Remove from the heat and stir until smooth then stir in 4 tbsp of the cream.

4. Dissolve the gelatine in 2 tbsp hot water. Cool for a few minutes then stir into the chocolate mixture.

Softly whip the rest of the cream and fold into the chocolate mixture. Whisk the egg whites until stiff and fold in. Spoon the mousse over the sponge base and chill for 3-4 hours until set.

5. For the chocolate glaze, melt the chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Remove from the heat, stir until smooth then stir in the cream. Leave until cool and thick enough to spread, stirring occasionally. Remove the mousse cake from the tin and gently spread the chocolate glaze over the top. Drizzle with melted white chocolate and decorate with the eggs.

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45

LESTER O’DRISCOLL CARPENTRY Door Hanging, Skirting, Flooring, Fitted Kitchens, Fencing, Decking, General Carpentry, Extensions

07842 195152 01480 811629

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47

CODEWORD

1

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16

17

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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.

48

Please Life when when responding responding to toadverts adverts Please mention mention The Villager and Town Life

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49

Simply Education are a local agency currently looking to recruit teachers for primary and secondary schools for daily, short term and long term vacancies for schools all over the Cambridgeshire area. Good rates of pay, mileage and food allowance given.

Please call either Emma or Ross for an immediate interview on: Peterborough 01733 490097 Cambridge 01223 597844

www.simplyeducation.co.uk

WINDOWS & CONSERVATORIES

YO U D E S E R V E T H E B E S T !

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The best choice of windows, doors and conservatories.

Need more space?

ENERGY RATED Add one of our range of exciting conservatories to your property.

Our modern conservatories are for use all year round.

CALL US NOW!

01480 38 24 19

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TELEVISION MOBILE SERVICE ST NEOTS, ST IVES, HUNTINGDON AREA REPAIR TV,VCR, DVD, FREEVIEW DIGITAL BOXES TUNING & DEMONSTRATION OF EQUIPMENT DIGITAL LOFT AERIALS SUPPLIED & FITTED Extension Aerial Points DAY OR EVENING CALL OUTS 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE PHONE JOHN FABISZ FOR ESTIMATE

01480 495408 OR 07887887319

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51

FLOORED

By Ian

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

Best prices and quality with a friendly service.

Enquiries to 01480 475486 or (Mobile) 07876 238308

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Business to Business Associates Ltd

VIP CLUB

www.b-b-a.com sponsors of

THE VILLAGER PRIZE CROSSWORD

1st Prize £25

2nd Prize £15

Complete the crossword on the following page, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before 16th April 2012 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

Name:

Tel:

Address: BCA Villager Advert A7:Layout 1 06/03/2012 12:49 Page 1 Brown Building Garage 2

7/11/11

09:11

Page 2

Experienced local builder Reliable family run business

For children from 0 to 5 years Dance Classes Music Classes Spanish Lessons Monkeynastix

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• Brickwork • Repointing • Patios • Refurbishments & Extensions • Plumbing • Tiling • Plastering • Carpentry • Kitchen/Bathroom installation • Driveways

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Fill in your details on the previous page and send your completed entry for a chance to win a cash prize.

Notes:

Across

Down

1 Not private (6)

1 Mailed (6)

4 One belonging to a club (6)

2 Destroyed by fire (5)

9 Endure (7)

3 Copy (7)

10 Book of maps (5)

5 Precise (5)

11 Surplus (5)

6 Accept as true (7)

12 Design (7)

7 Climbing up (6)

13 Discontinued (11)

8 Frantically (11)

18 Withdraw (7)

14 Interconnected system (7)

20 Living (5)

15 Clearly (7)

22 Concerning (5)

16 Chicken meat (6)

23 Outside light (7)

17 Racket game (6)

24 Removing (6)

19 Consumed (5)

25 Two wheeled vehicles (6)

21 Perfect (5)

Congratulations to last month’s crossword winners: 1st Prize - Miss C Porter from Gamlingay 2nd Prize - Mr P Brown from Cambourne 54 54

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Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

KING ELECTRICAL QUALITY ELECTRICIAN Based in Buckden

Highly qualified and experienced in ALL electrical installation work.

Fully approved NICEIC Contractor, Part ‘P’ Domestic Installer. Insurance based warranty.

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL. TIDY, PERSONAL AND FRIENDLY SERVICE. Advice, help and estimates FREELY given.

Please contact Chris on

01480 810133 or 07717 172100 cpk-king@supanet.com

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what’S ON?

IN APRIL

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

17 March-5 April Lambing Time 10.30am-5pm Wimpole Home Farm, near Arrington Normal Farm admission applies Celebrate the arrival of spring as newborn lambs frolic in the fields. Head to Home Farm to meet the rare breed ewes and lambs and if you are lucky you may see a live birth.

Tel: 01223 206000 Web: www.wimpole.org 1 April Concert for Easter 6.30pm St Peter’s Church, Offord D’Arcy Tickets £8 including complimentary drink Music of Tallis and Byrd. Conductor Matthew Howes. Fundraising concert for the Restoration of the Stained Glass War Memorial.

Tel: 01480 812899 1-15 April ‘Spot the Easter Egg’ Hunt Entry forms £1, includes a creme egg Find the twenty Easter egg posters in Little Paxton.

Event organised by St James’ Church, Little Paxton.

Entry forms from Lyn Harris 01480 476374 3 April Withy Lanterns for Families 10am-12.30pm Hinchingbrooke Country Park, Huntingdon Create 3D sculptures from willow and tissue paper which can possibly be used as lanterns. This family event is suitable for children aged 7+. Please book in advance on 01480 388910.

3 & 17 April Cromwell Video Camera Club Meeting 7pm for 7.30pm start The Reading Room, High Street, Hemingford Grey First and third Tuesday of the month. 3 April is Carl Evening showing old 16mm cine films – if you have any bring them along. 17 April - David giving a talk on 3D – where is it going to go?

6 April The Eggstraordinary Good Friday Workshop 10.30 am-12 noon Little Paxton School - Free event Fun for all children. Celebrate the real meaning of Easter. Songs, stories and “crafty things”. Preschool children must be accompanied by an adult please. This event is organised by St James’ Church, Little Paxton. Tel: Annette 01480 211048 or Sheila 01480 405511 to book a place or fill out a flyer which will be available in the school

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7 April Craft Fair 9.30am-4pm St Ives Free Church Local people selling hand-made crafts at very reasonable prices. Held on the first Saturday of each month. Charity tombola and free entry. For more details visit http://www.saintscrafters.blogspot.com 7 April Who’s Hungry This Easter? 1.30-4pm Hinchingbrooke Country Park £1.50 entry fee Turn detective and follow the clues around the Park to work out which feathered or fury character stole the ranger’s seed. Prizes for all correct answers. For younger children, we offer a more basic counting trail. Wear an Easter Bonnet, get a spring in your step and perhaps you’ll win a prize. All money raised will be invested in the Park.

Children must be accompanied by an adult Tel: Sallyann 07917 005244 Follow us on Twitter: FriendsofHCP@Twitter 7 April My thirty best plants 2.00pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Cambs and Beds Hardy Plant Society talk by Bob Brown. Visitors welcome to all meetings, a small charge applicable. Tel: Winifred 01234 721720 Web: www.hpscambsandbeds.co.uk 13 April Pamper & Indulgence Evening Wyboston Village Hall An opportunity to relax and enjoy mini treatments.

Tel: Mrs Susie Woodman 01234 376098 Web: www.wybostonvillagehall.com 13 April La Strada Doors open 7.30pm, film starts 8pm £5 The Corn Exchange, St Ives Directed by Federico Fellini, 1956.

Italian with English subtitles.

In a ramshackle travelling circus a love triangle develops between young Gelsomina, fierytempered strongman Zampanò, and the clown, gentle Matto. As they travel the situation between them becomes more intense. Poignant, loaded with symbolism and astonishingly beautiful, La Strada won the first Foreign Language Oscar.

Web: www.screenstives.org.uk.

what’S ON? IN APRIL

14 April Jean’s Garden & Plant Sale 11am-2pm The Scout Hut, Little Paxton Playing Field Plants, garden sundries, etc.. Refreshments. Offers of plants, etc. to Jean Mattheson 01480 476298.

All proceeds to St James’ Church Building Project (CHUFT).

21 April Early Morning Birds 7.00-10.00am Hinchingbrooke Country Park, Huntingdon £12 per person including a bacon roll and hot drink An early start to listen to the best of the dawn chorus. Learn who is singing and how to recognise the song followed by bacon rolls and tea in the café.

Please book in advance on 01480 388910.

21 April The BIG Family History Fair 10am-4pm The Burgess Hall, St Ives Free admission – children must be accompanied Displays and sales by family history societies & local history societies. Old books and postcards.

Bring your old photos for assistance with dating.

Programme of free local/family history lectures throughout the day. See society website for further and updated details of participants. Ample Free Parking. Refreshments available Email: secretary@huntsfhs.org.uk Website: www.huntsfhs.org.uk 22 April The Beautiful Bluebells of Bluebell Wood 10.30pm Brampton Wood Car Park, Grafham Road, Brampton Suggested donation: Adults £2, Children free The Huntingdonshire Local Group of the Wildlife Trust invites you to come and experience the delights of a carpet of bluebells in this ancient woodland, which lies on our doorstep. Walk by George Cottram, Warden of Brampton Wood and Chairman of Huntingdonshire Local Group of the Wildlife Trust. Tel: George 01480 450809 Web: www.wildlifetrust-huntsareagroup.org.uk/ 26 April Rampage round my greenhouse 8pm St Mary’s Church Hall, Brook Street, St Neots Non-members £2.50 St Neots & District Gardening Club monthly meeting. Talk by Mr W Morris. The competition is a decorated egg.

Tel: David Usher 01480 476671 Email: david.usher9@btinternet.com

29 April The Beauty, Health & Well Being Show 11am-4pm The Willows, Wyboston Free admission.

Hair styling, alternative therapies, keep fit, beauty products, nail technicians, keep fit and sports clubs, fat loss seminars, nutritional therapy and so much more. 40+ stands. Demonstrations throughout the day. Celebrity Dale Pinnock, as seen on Titchmarsh, the UK’s first medicinal chef will be there doing cookery demonstrations.

Email: paijevents@hotmail.com Web: www.paijevents.com 30 April NSPCC Cambridge Dining Club 12.00 noon £16.50 two course meal and coffee NSPCC Cambridge Dining Club welcomes both men and women, and meets at the charming riverside restaurant of La Mimosa, Cambridge, five times a year. Guest speaker will be Keith Baldwin, a former Household Cavalry Soldier, talking on “All the Queen’s Horses and All the Queen’s Men”. All funds raised go towards NSPCC & ChildLine projects.

Tel: Kate Armstrong 01954 719745 Email: cfm.armstrong@gmail.com Find us on Facebook: nspcc south cambs branch 1 May Hemingford Grey Flower Club 10 am Reading Room, Hemingford Grey Admission £3 including coffee A flower arranging demonstration by Joyce Svensson. Raffle. All welcome 2 May Chillis and more chillis! 8pm Little Paxton Village Hall Members £1, Non-members £2 Little Paxton Gardening Club will hear about chillis in a talk from Joanna Plumb. New members are welcome at our meetings. Annual membership is only £5 per person plus £1 per meeting.

5 May Bee Taster Day 10.45am Hinchingbrooke Country Park Apiary Tickets: £15 each Taster session lasting approximately 2 hours. Prebook only as limited to 10 people. Get to see inside a busy bee hive under instruction of local beekeepers.

Bee suits and gloves provided.

Tel: Roger Wood 01480453196 Web: www.huntsbka.org.uk 59

M MISTLETOE INTERIORS Mistletoe Interiors offers internal and external design, consultancy, sourcing and homestaging services.

Interior Design need not be expensive!

For more information please contact Emma Rees:

S B Driveways

Tel 01487 822993 / 07966 523239

For Block Paving New and Old Repaired and Relayed Patio Laying Service, Paths, Shed Bases and Fencing.

Plus Mini Digger Hire with Man Available Driveways Gravelled

Mobile: 07885 135478 info@mistletoeinteriors.co.uk Mistletoe House 20 Main Road, Stonely, Kimbolton Cambridgeshire PE19 5EH

Also Tree Service Available New Lawns Laid All work carried out by Experienced Staff Recommendations and Portfolio of work available on request Free Estimates

P.E. JAMES & SONS DOMESTIC PLUMBING, HEATING & GAS Small Repairs to Major Installations

Heating Problems & Installations

Showers, Pumps and Wet Rooms

New Boilers

Bathrooms and Ceramic Tiling

Solar Hot water

25 YEARS IN THE TRADE CITY & GUILDS CERTIFIED COVERING HERTS, BEDS, BUCKS & CAMBS CALL MR. JAMES NOW FOR A QUOTE 01767 317356 or 07816 586777 60

NO VAT!

Reg no. 193542

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CITIZENS ADVICE WANTS TO KNOW

HOW YOU ACCESS YOUR CASH Citizens Advice bureaux in Huntingdon and St Neots want to know how local people access their cash – whether it’s through cash machines, banks or other ways – as part of a national research project in partnership with LINK. The research will ask how much of a problem it would be if people could only use a cash machine provided by their own bank and if the cash machine they use most regularly charges a fee.

It will also explore whether different people face particular problems in getting their money.

Anyone who would like to take part in the research can fill in a survey at either the Huntingdon or St Neots bureau. Or complete it online at www. adviceguide.org.uk.

The Citizens Advice Service helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing information and advice, and by influencing policy makers. CAB advice is free, independent, confidential and impartial. The

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Huntingdon bureau is situated in All Saints Passage and is open for drop in sessions Monday to Friday from 9.30-12.00pm with appointments in the afternoons. The St Neots bureau in New Street is open Monday to Thursday 10.00-12.30 pm for drop in sessions with appointments in the afternoons.

There are also telephone advice lines: Huntingdon 01480 388900; St. Neots 01480 388905 or visit www.adviceguide.org.uk

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Classifieds Antiques

Electricians

Frank Plater Electrical Extra sockets - Lighting - Extensions - Re-wires Security Lighting - Showers - Inspections No job too small. Free estimates Established 13 years Tel: 01480 432154 Mob: 07976 797111 72198 chas crowe BCards

14/3/11

Clock Repair Specialist

19:36

Page 1

H Visome its

LONGCASE CLOCK REPAIR SPECIALIST Church End, Ravensden, Bedford Tel: 01234 771704 & 07976 876234 Email: chas.crowe@btinternet.com British Horological Institute Associate Member

Plastering

TACKERS N SPREADS

• Plastering • Rendering • Drylining - dot & dabbing • Skim over old Walls • Floor screeding - 25 years experience, reliable tradesman - Competitive prices - clean and tidy - All areas covered Tel Mike :

07900 695 025

Plumbing & Heating

Yoga Classes

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