VILLAGER The
Issue 51 - July 2013
and Town
Life
LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS
Covering: Buckden • Brampton • Cambourne • Godmanchester The Hemingfords and all surrounding areas
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VILLAGER The
In this Issue
Issue 51 - July 2013
and Town
Life
12
LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS
Learn to Fly Gliders Competition
Covering: Buckden • Brampton • Cambourne • Godmanchester The Hemingfords and all surrounding areas
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ur Yo EE y FRco1 p
Advertising Sales Christa Hallam - Tel: 07868 369257 Christa@villagermag.com Additional Editorial Tony Larkins, Peter Ibbett, Fiona McLeman, Christine Donnelly, Simon Thomas, Bruce Edwards and James Baggott Front Cover Photo: Bambi L. Dingman 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.
P&R Bathrooms
Second to None Service
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Prize Crossword £25 could be yours!
Did your Great-Grandparents Visit St. Neots...............................4 Wildlife Wanderings.............................................................................6 Abbotsley Feast Week....................................................................... 10 Little Beans World.............................................................................. 19 Gallery 1066......................................................................................... 20 Acupuncture for Well-Being........................................................... 21 The Bedfordshire County Show.................................................... 23 Cambridge Open Studios................................................................ 24 It Takes Two to Untangle.................................................................. 27 Parenting Apart................................................................................... 29 I am not a Number............................................................................. 31 Flower of the Month.......................................................................... 36 Children’s Page.................................................................................... 38 Jaguar F-Type....................................................................................... 42 Seasonal Delights............................................................................... 45 Puzzle Page........................................................................................... 48 What’s On.............................................................................................. 58 Book Review......................................................................................... 62 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)
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DID YOUR GREAT-GRANDPARENTS
VISIT ST. NEOTS FOR THEIR HOLIDAY?
There is much talk of the demise of the high street in the face of economic gloom and the continued rise of digital shopping. There is, however, a concerted effort by St. Neots Town Council and concerned local groups to attract more people to enjoy the delights of a unique market town. But this concern is not new. Back in the early 1900’s a tourist guide to St Neots set about attracting new business to the town. In addition to views of a seemingly quiet idyllic river life and fine old stone bridge the text sets out to attract the holiday maker away from the seaside:‘For jaded nerves and enfeebled constitutions, the average seaside resort with its endless parades, pierrothaunted beaches, and rapacious tradespeople is NOT the place wherein to recuperate. And yet, he orders his family into a suite of illventilated rooms at an exorbitant rent, returning to town after a fortnight of general discomfort and dissatisfaction, more jaded and fagged than when he started. Why does he do it year after year? Simply because it is the fashion to spend one’s holidays within earshot of the booming billow and the clicking pier and it is not considered de rigueur to patronise the country in search of health.’
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‘St. Neots possesses all the advantages, with none of the drawbacks common to many seaside towns east, south or west. The air is a happy medium of mild and bracing, and the town enjoys a handsome proportion of sunshine and fine weather. It is clean and pleasing to the eye, is blessed with a number of good shops, a glorious stretch of 145 acres of breezy common, one of the prettiest rivers in England, and last, but by no means least, has the distinction of owning a Spa whose waters rival the much vaunted springs of Leamington, Harrogate and Tunbridge Wells. The town is built on a gravel soil and bears a particularly low death-rate, the average for the last ten years being only 13.52 per thousand. House rent in the neighbourhood is extremely low, and for about £20 per annum one can secure a comfortable well-built house. Local rates are commendably low, and, what is probably likely to prove an important factor in the town’s prosperity, the trades-people are obliging, and genuinely anxious for the good reputation of their native place.’ Do come and enjoy ‘THE Jewel of the Great Ouse Valley’. Times have changed since 1905 but do look up www.visitstneots.c.uk to find out how YOU can make the most out of your visits to the town.. By Peter Ibbett
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WILDLIFE WANDERINGS
WILDLIFE TRAVEL, BY CHRISTINE DONNELLY We are lucky to have so many interesting places to visit in this part of the country, including plenty of areas where you can take an easy walk to see local wildlife. There is good news of several species that were in decline not long ago but, due to improved environmental management, are now back in reasonable numbers. In our rivers it is possible to catch a quick glimpse of an otter, particularly if you are enjoying a walk in the early morning light or on one of the warmer evenings. Along some of the quieter backwaters, ‘Ratty’ of Wind in the Willows fame has returned and if you are lucky enough to see one you might notice that they are not a rat at all but a water vole, larger than the other voles and mice in our countryside and without the long tail of a rat. The Wildlife Trust has been working with other partners to monitor the populations of these iconic animals whose return is also an indicator that the general health of our streams is improving.
European Otter We tend to visit woods in spring for the bluebells and singing birds but in summer the woodland rides take on a wonderful character of their own and, if carefully managed, will be full of butterflies, hoverflies, bees and a huge number of fascinating beetles. In recent times we have learnt the value of keeping, where it is safe to do so, much of the ‘deadwood’ found in older tree trunks and broken branches as this forms an invaluable habitat used by numerous animals including insects, birds and mammals such as bats. Brampton Wood is one of the largest local woods open to the public and is of great importance for wildlife conservation. Not only is it one of our ancient woodlands, it also has a population of one of our rarest mammals, the dormouse. The Wildlife Trust’s Huntingdon Local Group is organising a walk there on Sunday 21st of July from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm and anyone is welcome. You could also join a walk (c. 5 miles, meet at Cross Keys pub carpark,
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Upwood) to Wistow and Bury on Wednesday the 17th July from 10 am to 1 pm organised by the Great Fen Local Group. Nearby, you can visit Wistow wood, another wildlife-rich wood managed by the Wildlife Trust.
Common blue butterfly A walk on chalk downland is a highlight of summer but you can see some of the typical flowers of chalk grassland at an old quarry within Cambridge city itself. Cherry Hinton Chalk Pits are internationally famous for their fossils but they are also now a nature reserve and an excellent example of the connection between the underlying rocks and wildlife. An evening of Chalk, Cheese and Glowworms is taking place on Wednesday 17th and Wednesday 24th of July from 8 pm to 10 pm (£5, booking is essential on 01954 713530) when you can discover the rare plants and the strange world of glow-worms, whilst enjoying the delights of the Cambridge Cheese Company. For details of all Wildlife Trust events and reserves contact 01954 713500 or visit www.wildlifebcn.org.
Pyramidal orchids The chalk areas of southern England come to life in summer with an amazing diversity of species, many locally rare and some internationally protected. Wildlife Travel runs holidays to areas including Wiltshire, Dorset and Sussex where you can explore the chalk downs for their wildlife and also their history and culture. Contact them on 01954 713575 or check www.wildlife-travel.co.uk for details of their holidays worldwide.
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St Neots Medieval Festival Travel back in time and meet characters from the past ]
Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th July St Neots Market Square 10.00am ~ 4.00pm Local History Stalls & a Monk from St Neots Priory Knight in armour with his Lady & Crusader Knights Executioner and Plague Doctor & Medieval Minstrels Tudor Ladies from Buckden Towers & Sit in our town stocks Make a ‘medieval’ hat to take home
www.stneotsmuseum.org.uk
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Abbotsley Feast Week
And Scarecrow Festival Friday 19th July – Sunday 28th July 2013 Scarecrows based on a musical theme will be on display in the village of Abbotsley from Friday 19th July as part of the popular annual Feast Week and Scarecrow Festival. The week-long event coincides with the celebration of the feast of St Margaret of Antioch, in whose honour the church is dedicated. The village has become well known for its scarecrows, and year on year the straw residents delight visitors from across the region. The theme for 2013 is Music and the annual event commences on Friday 19th July with a children’s disco at the Village Hall and Golf Day at Abbotsley Golf Club. The weeks festivites include: The Village Fete will be held on Saturday 20th on the playing field from 2–5pm, with games, stalls and side shows including, Bedfordshire Beekeepers, Robins Reach Archery, bbq, bar & Pimms tent and much more. • On Sunday 21st cream teas will be served at the Village Hall from 12.30pm, a welcome refreshment after a walk around the village to see the scarecrows. • A family sports evening will be held on Monday 22nd on the playing field. • On Tuesday 23rd there is a quiz at The Eight Bells 8pm. • Abbotsley’s Got Talent at the Village Hall Wednesday 24th 7pm – all are welcome, tickets see below. • A pet show in the garden of The Eight Bells on Friday 26th – 6.30pm
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The popular Barn Dance will take place on Saturday 27th at The Eight Bells at 8pm, with dancing to The Crofters (tickets in advance, see contact details below). The week’s festivities close on Sunday 28th with Jazz in the Afternoon, 2pm at the Eight Bells – all are welcome, bring a picnic and enjoy the jazz. Cream teas will again be served in the Village Hall on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th July. All profits from Feast Week go to the upkeep of Abbotsley Village Hall. The Village Hall is important to the community; it is used regularly by local groups and classes and is available to hire throughout the year for parties and other events. For further information about Feast Week events and tickets please contact Ben Yallop (01767 679991) or Mike Hopwood (01767 679979), or see the village website www.abbotsley.org.uk Abbotsley Feast Week & Scarecrow Festival Raising Funds for Abbotsley Village Hall Registered Charity No.302626
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Paxfest & Fun Dog Show Queen Elizabeth Playing Field Saturday 13th July 12 noon – 5pm Afternoon for free family entertainment, over 30 stalls, refreshments, beer tent, games, Mick Ross & Buffalo, Little Paxton School Choir, Ed the Clown & his Magic Show, Somersham Town Band and not forgetting the first Fun Dog Show.
Dog class registration on the day £1.50 per class In the event of bad weather, the event will still go ahead.
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LEARN TO FLY GLIDERS
AT CAMBRIDGE GLIDING CENTRE
Cambridge Gliding Centre is located at Gransden Lodge Airfield, just ten miles west of Cambridge. It’s one of the major gliding clubs in the country. Gliding is a form of flight that is both beautiful and exciting. Nothing can quite match the thrill of flying silently, giving a birds-eye view over the surrounding countryside of Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and beyond. Gliders from Gransden Lodge often fly two or three hundred miles on a good day. Gliding is a sport that is genuinely open to all. The club has members who learn to fly from the age of 14, through to those who take up the sport on retirement. It’s an exciting and sociable way to learn to fly, and it’s a sport which provides an opportunity to keep on learning. Having said that, it’s not difficult – if you can drive a car, you can almost certainly learn to fly a glider. Training is available during the day on seven days a week in the summer, and on several evenings. If you are at all interested in learning, we’d love to see you at the club. Come and have a look round. Give the club a call on 01767 677077, and say when you’d like to come. Then we’ll arrange someone to show you around. Then take a flight. If you might be interested in
learning to fly (as opposed to just wanting a oneoff birthday present or similar), then the best thing to do is to book a half or full day’s training. What then? We try to be very flexible: You can book training slots by the half day, any day of the week or week-end in the summer. This gets you a glider and instructor shared with one other student. We run a variety of courses: • Five day courses Monday to Friday about once per month • Evening courses on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the summer • You can even put together your own, flexible, course by booking training as you wish. We’ll work with you to find the best way for you to learn. See www.glide.co.uk for more details. Community Volunteers Wanted We also have opportunities for “community volunteer members”, who are interested in spending a few days a month helping run the airfield in return for membership and the occasional flight. To discuss, please contact the office. By Paul Ruskin, Chairman
COMPETITION • COMPETITION Win a Trial Lesson
We’re running a competition for readers of “The Villager”. Send an email to office@glide.co.uk with your name and phone number with the subject “Villager competition” to be entered into a draw for a free trial lesson launched behind one of our glider tugs.
W: www.glide.co.uk 12
T: 01767 677077
E: office@glide.co.uk
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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
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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 in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
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LITTLE BEANS WORLD
Drama Classes and Themed Parties Little Beans World is the brain child of Natalie Kiernan, local mum and previous arts manager at venues such as the Royal Opera House. At Little Beans World, Natalie and her fantastic theatrical team offer themed parties for children aged one and above, from Cowboys and Indians to Princess’ and Pirates, you name the theme and they will make it happen! Parties are a mixture of traditional party games, imaginative role play, singing, dancing, face painting, parachute games, bubbles, arts and crafts, what-ever your little bean is into. Also on offer; drama classes for toddlers to teens, wedding and event crèches, weekly pre-school groups and holiday workshops. Huntingdon Summer Workshops include: Little Beans Birthday Party, Monday 12th August, Little Beans Teddy Bears Picnic, Friday 23rd August, A Play in a Day, 9th August & Wizard of Oz Workshop, Wednesday 28th – Friday 30th August. Saturday Drama classes now run at St Mary’s
Parish Hall – Huntingdon, Burgess Hall – St Ives and The Priory Centre – St Neots. For ages 18 months – 14 years. Visit www.littlebeansworld. com for more info. Call Natalie on 07870 249129 or email natalie@littlebeansworld.com to book a FREE TRIAL CLASS. All classes share a common aim, to increase confidence, communication, creativity and team building.
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GET READY
for the finest Art party of the year! Gallery 1066 are soon coming up to their 3rd birthday and to celebrate would like to invite everyone to a Summer Party which will be held over the weekend of the 13th and 14th of July. The Gallery has had incredible success since its opening in 2010 and would like to thank everyone for their continued support. It is also a chance for Hayley and her team to personally say a huge thank you to their loyal clients, friends and family. This summer celebration will have a few surprises in store so don’t miss out and take a visit to this stunning gallery in Baldock. It is set in beautiful grounds where you can relax and enjoy a glass of champagne, listen to a summer jazz band and enjoy beautiful works from around the world. To find out more about this FREE event please contact the gallery on 01462 622233, www. gallery1066fineart.com Love your home .... love art Come and be inspired this summer at Gallery 1066
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Willow Mews, 6a Hitchin Street, Baldock SG7 6AE 01462 622233 or info@gallery1066fineart. com to reserve your place(s) or for any further information. Gallery 1066 chosen charity is the Garden House Hospice
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Acupuncture
Judy Lenton B.A. (Hons) Lic,Ac. MBAcC
Traditional
located at
Headz Up 65 High Street Brampton Huntingdon Cambridgeshire PE28 4TQ
acupuncture for health &
telephone
wellbeing
01480 229029
mobile
07557 282617
info@judylentonacupuncture.co.uk or visit
www.judylentonacupuncture.co.uk
FOR WELL-BEING
Judy obtained her Licentiate in Acupuncture, and B.A (Hons) degree in Traditional Acupuncture, from the College of Traditional Acupuncture, Warwickshire. Judy is a passionate believer in the positive benefits, on both physical and emotional levels, that may be obtained from receiving acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture originated in China and other far eastern cultures where it still features in mainstream healthcare, both as a stand-alone therapy and in combination with conventional western medicine. Judy has been trained as a classical Five Element Acupuncturist; treatment is aimed at the root cause of your condition as well as your main symptoms. This approach helps with resolving your problem and enhancing your feelings of wellbeing. You may notice other niggling problems resolve as your main health complaint improves. Judy continues to pursue her belief in excellence of care for her patients in her role as a dedicated acupuncture practitioner, and is a member of the British Acupuncture Council. Please contact Judy for a free 20minute consultation to discuss how acupuncture treatment can help you.
Massage for Health and Wellbeing Relax, unwind, help undo stress and tension with a qualified massage therapist
Ladies only Call Lynn on 07753 282587 Email: lynnbw@hotmail.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
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The Bedfordshire County Show
July 13th & 14th 2013
The Bedfordshire County Show returns to the beautiful grounds of Shuttleworth Park, Old Warden on the weekend of July 13th & 14th. It’s the summer’s biggest event in Bedfordshire, celebrating everything that is exciting and great about the diverse towns and villages across Bedfordshire. The show boasts a wealth of attractions, combining entertainment and fun with the opportunity to try different sports and activities, providing you with everything you could want in a relaxed family atmosphere. There is a huge line up of entertainment, shows, displays, competitions, have a go opportunities, demonstrations and stalls housed in marquees and arenas. There really is something for everyone, and don’t forget dogs are very welcome too. The Main Arena will serve up a fantastic array of acts from the Welsh Axemen, to David Seamark and his sheepdog display, the beautiful Syres Shires, the English School of Falconry, Talent of the horse, Cyril the Squirrel (Saturday only) and many more. We guarantee to entertain the whole family with a glorious medley of fun and activities, giving something for everyone. From Carriage Driving, Canine Partners will be offering you the chance to enter your favourite pooch in the dog show, mouthwatering culinary delights, craft show, trade stands, donkey show, thrilling fun fair rides, traditional crafts, display of livestock including sheep, cattle and more and opportunities to try
new sports or interests. Don’t miss the Field Sports Village, this will be hosting different field sports including, falconry, air rifles, archery and professional coaches will be on hand to give advice tutor and answer any questions you may have. The Bedfordshire County Show is a family run event, which means the organizers know how important it is to make sure there is something for every one of all ages. Entry into this year’s show also includes FREE entry into the world famous Shuttleworth Airplane Collection and the Bird of Prey Centre. ‘This year with the help of people around Bedfordshire we aim to bring town and country together, making it the best show ever’
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Cambridge Open Studios
at the Diamond
Six artists will be exhibiting their work at The Diamond, Selwyn College, Cranmer Road, Cambridge as part of Cambridge Open Studios during the first two weekends in July. The exhibition will feature furniture by Adrian Parfitt, sculpture by Melissa Murray, paintings and prints by Sonia Villiers, mixed media paintings by Gurpran Rau, hand felted pieces and photography by Paula Walsh and fine art jewellery by Sarah Cain and Roxane Ryan. Combining their styles and shared interest in creating quirky yet elegant pieces of jewellery, Roxane and Sarah create hand sculpted pendants in fine silver, combined with fine quality semi precious stones, freshwater pearls and sterling silver. Their current collection has been inspired by nature. Both artists are drawn to the more unusual semi precious stones and recent work has a contemporary rustic feel. Textile artist Paula Walsh’s hand felted pieces are inspired by the fluidity of nature. Paula uses
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merino wool and silks, experimenting with the rich colours. Paula will also be exhibiting her photography. Inspired by the sky, her images beautifully compliment her felting style. The work will be on show at The Diamond, Selwyn College, Cambridge on 6th and 7th July and 13th and 14th July, 11am until 6pm. Sarah and Roxane’s work will be on display during the first weekend only. For more information please visit www.camopenstudios.co.uk Or the artists websites: Sarah Cain & Roxane Ryan - www.beadstormdesigns.co.uk Paula Walsh - www.lumikodesigns.co.uk
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Sports Injuries Neck / Back Pain Rehab after Fractures or Surgery Video Gait Analysis Paediatric and Adolescent Musculoskeletal Conditions Women’s Health Physiotherapy Acupuncture Pilates
Physiotherapists Kate Abrahams MSc MCSP Cordelia Squire MSc MCSP Georgia Sinfield BSc MCSP Daisy Collins BSc MCSP Yegs Gounden BSc MCSP Podiatrist/Chiropodist Sue Walker DPodM SRCh MChS
Podiatry / Chiropody
Registered with all major health insurance companies
1 Oxford Building, School Lane, Colmworth, Bedfordshire MK44 2JZ T. 01234 378996
E. info@woodfieldphysio.co.uk
www.woodfieldphysio.co.uk
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Lunch
is served
Bagels, paninis, ciabattas, roasts, BBQs, small plates, or a good old three-course meal. Every day offers a different lunch at The Coach House. 26
Market Square Potton 01767 260221 www.coachhousepotton.co.uk
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It takes two to untangle
LEEDS DAY SOLICITORS Is it true what they say – that it is not divorce itself, but the way you divorce, that takes the heaviest toll? St Neots lawyer Simon Thomas certainly believes so. Simon is one of a pioneering group of solicitors across the country who now offer a whole new way of making the break, and surviving the aftermath. Collaborative family law provides the possibility for separating couples to work together as a team with trained professionals to resolve disputes respectfully and without going to Court. It is an approach to problem solving which maximises the options and minimises the friction of the people concerned. Each client has the support, protection and guidance of his or her own lawyer. Together, the lawyers and clients form the collaborative component of collaborative practice. The crucial difference between collaborative law and the more traditional way of lawyers dealing with a divorce is that the lawyers agree they are there to help the clients through the collaborative process; they are not there to take the case to Court and are prevented from doing so. If an agreed outcome cannot be reached then the two lawyers involved must bow out. Neither of them can be involved in subsequent litigation for the couple. With your former partner, you set the agenda. You work at the pace at which you feel comfortable. You commit to full disclosure and all talk openly about the issues that matter to you. You don’t feel as if you are being dragged helplessly along a legal conveyor belt. Collaborative family law is not an easy option; it requires the right mindset from everyone involved but for couples for whom it is right, it provides a genuine resolution to marital breakdown or the breakdown of a civil partnership or relationship and those who come out the other end report a genuine sense of well being. Many successfully remain friends with their former partners, in an atmosphere of respect and understanding which, they say, at the beginning of the process they could never have contemplated.
Simon offers a wealth of family law experience having practised family law for more than 10 years. Simon is the Family Team Leader at Leeds Day heading up a team of experienced fee earners and support staff. He has been awarded specialist accreditation status from Resolution. As well as collaborative family law, Simon deals with all aspects of family law; in particular focussing on financial matters including pensions, investment assets and representing the self employed and/ or owners of private companies following the breakdown of a marriage or civil partnership. To find out more about collaborative family law or any of our other family law services, contact Simon Thomas at Leeds Day on 01480 474661 or visit our website: www.leedsday.co.uk/family. If you quote this article then your first consultation will be free.
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E FRE al i n t i In tatio l u s n Co Piecing together the life you want
Anstee Gorst
Chartered Certified Accountants
I’m not perfect. There I said it. But have you ever felt that there are areas in your life holding you back from living to the full? Relationships, financial struggles, bereavement... just a few of the hurdles that can feel too high to jump. If you would like to break things down and lower a hurdle or two call Angie for a chat. Angie Dickinson Dip. Coaching & Mentoring International 07710185427
- Accounts preparation for Sole traders, Partnerships and Limited Companies - Self assessment tax returns - Cash Flow Forecasting - Vat, Payroll & Bookkeeping - Business Start Up
Free Initial Consultation Phone: Antoinette Gorst ACCA or Sally Anstee FCCA 01767 650700 Ground Floor Offices, Unit 30, Green End, Gamlingay, Sandy, Beds, SG19 3LF Email: office@ansteegorst.co.uk Website: www.ansteegorst.co.uk
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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Parenting Apart
during Summer Holidays The summer holidays are almost upon us and for children of school age, this will be a welcome rest. When a couple with children separate or divorce, it is quite typical for school holidays to be shared equally. Usually this can be resolved without the need for the Court to get involved, but occasionally, it may be necessary to seek assistance. However, a Court encourages cooperation and compromise between the parents and only a handful of cases end up in bitter courtroom battle. It is quite common for the summer holidays to be divided into blocks of one week or perhaps a fortnight with each parent. With the children’s best interests being at the forefront of all considerations, here are some practical tips to help make the process as easy as possible for the parents, and for children. Firstly, try and agree your dates well in advance. This avoids any last minute uncertainty which can be stressful. Overseas holidays also require a little thought. If an overseas trip is planned, make sure the other parent knows about it well in advance and you have their permission. Taking a child abroad without the other parent’s permission is akin to child abduction. It’s courteous to give details about where you plan staying, before the holiday is booked. Make sure the other parent is given a note about travel times, flight details and accommodation. Children now carry their own passport so it may be helpful to agree when the passport will be available, so that there is no last minute panic. On arrival, send a quick text to let
the other parent know you have all arrived safe and sound. Give the children as much information as possible about what is planned for them during the holidays. Perhaps think about a holiday chart or diary, so that the children know what they are going to be doing each week and how long it will be before they see the other parent again. Regular contact with the other parent is important but it’s a question of getting the balance right. Let the children keep in touch with the other parent by phone every few days. Encourage them to chat to the other parent and tell them what they have been up to. Communication is now made much easier with Skype, so perhaps set up a time for a Skype chat. If the children are going away for a holiday, encourage them to write a postcard or two to the other parent. Often this can arrive on the doormat at the very time the children are there, which is often what they find most exciting. Most of all, enjoy your time with the children and don’t forget the sun cream!
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Absolutely ... Positively ... NO pressure to sell! We give you FREE VALUATIONS .... YOU DECIDE !
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CASH Cambridge Coins and Jewellery Coins, Medals, Banknotes, Tokens, Postcards.
Anything GOLD any SILVER....even broken jewellery!
Buying and selling old Coins, Military Medals, Tokens, Banknotes and bullion ...as well as Jewellery.
52 High Street // Biggleswade // Beds // SG18 0LJ // (Opposite “The Codfather”) Open Wednesday to Saturday. 11am to 7pm
t: 01767 600 300 e: shop@cambridgecoins.co.uk 30
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I am not
a number
If you were a fan of the 60’s cult TV show “The Prisoner,” you will recall that these were the words of actor Patrick McGoohan. Filmed at Portmeirion (Penrhyndeudraeth, North Wales) the village is not what it seems. (I visited in June this year and if you haven’t been, I recommend it). The tour guide was great for informing you about things you could see but didn’t appreciate, as well as pointing out things you would have missed. Now whilst Mr McGoohan may not have been a number – we all have our own number; even if it is not the one we think. Quite simply, our number equates to the level of wealth you require to sustain your lifestyle. The calculation is made rather like a tour guide, i.e. from knowing certain data and having other data pointed out to us. As financial planners this is what we do. We
Tony Larkins CFP APFS Managing Director / IFA Chartered and Certified Financial Planner
help you calculate what income and capital you require, plus when and where it will come from. We can then help you produce a plan to find any shortfall. By considering tax, inflation and realistic fund growth, we can help you plan; for the long term, short term, or now. Experience has taught us that whilst it is often the obvious that is overlooked, it is more common that people have just never considered planning in this way. I recommend everyone knows their number. So if you require assistance contact us. So even the Prisoner had a number 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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Honey Fungus – Armillaria
Susceptible Acer Araucaria Betula Cedrus Chamaecyparis Cryptomeria japonica x Cupressocyparis Juglans regia
This disease is worldwide in distribution and affects hundreds of species of fruit, shade and forest trees as well as shrubs, potatoes and strawberries, both in the temperate and tropical regions. The disease is often known as shoestring or bootlace root rot, mushroom root rot, crown rot or oak root fungus disease. In the UK it is known as honey fungus (Armillaria mellea). Tree species vary in susceptibility. Conifers, except fir and Douglas fir, are generally more susceptible than broadleaf species. Only three tree species are known to be immune to Armillaria. These can be planted in heavily infected areas. Immune Resistant Acer negundo Abies species Juglans hindsii Ailanthus alanthus Taxus baccata Buxus sempervirens Catalpa bignonioides Crataegus species Fagus sylvatica Fraxinus excelsior Ilex aquifolia Juniperus species
Eradication of Honey Fungus is notoriously difficult but there are a few treatments that can be performed to help control the infection. Sanitation: Removal of all infected material and replacement of uninfected topsoil. Restriction: Installation of root barriers to control further spread. Plant Resistance: Replanting with disease resistance plants AirSpade: Used to break down the “Bootlace” in the soil and limit infection of the tree stem and roots Bio-control: Application of mycorrhiza fungi in conjunction with AirSpade.
For more advice visit: www.bartlett.com or contact Bartlett Tree Experts 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 34
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Rid your lawn of moss & weeds. Start today!
Local family business
Treatments include
▪ Fertiliser applications ▪ Moss and weed treatments ▪ Scarification and aeration
Lawn Renovations
▪ Re-seeding, overseeding ▪ Turf laying
Free lawn analysis
Treatments from £15 pay as you go
01480 367 006 www.brilliantlawns.co.uk
Brilliant Lawns Caring for your lawn
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Flower of the Month (July)
Campanula Persicifolia ‘Alba’ We always think of June as the month of Geraniums. So many beautiful mounds of foliage topped with masses of flowers ranging from white to pinks and onwards to pink and purple. Last month’s favourite Ge-ranium Versicolor is still in full bloom and shows no sign of giving up yet. But our choice for this month is the old cottage garden favourite, Campanula Persicifolia ‘Alba’ – the Peach-Leaved Bellflower. Whilst the normal variety is a powder to mid blue, the ‘Alba’ is a pure white and provides brightness that can be used against dark shrubs or under planting roses. Both will seed freely and after a few years provide you with drifts of 2-3ft spires covered in flowers. It is a vigorous, hardy perennial that produces an evergreen rosette from which the 2-3ft spires are produced and loves to be in full sun although it will tolerate part shade. Ideal in free draining soil but this plant has seeded itself into all sorts of areas and survives in clay soil as long as it does
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not get water-logged in winter. The flowers appear towards the top of the spikes from June to August, after which the stems can be simply cut to the ground or left for the seed to form. It is also easy to propa-gate through division. A simple, effective and beautiful plant that will provide an injection of shape and colour into your flower border and our “Plant of the Month”. Gareth Arscott www.buckdenperennialplants.webs.com
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GARDEN MACHINERY AND TRAILER CENTRE
Personal customer service, collection and delivery available. Assessment of individual requirements. Full after sales backup and parts service. NEW Oregon, the world's only unique battery operated, self-sharpening s In stock. chain saw. Ride-on and pedestrian mowers, chainsaws, strimmers, hedge trimmers, cultivators, estate and equestrian equipment. Trailers - sales, hire, service. Accessories, oils, Aspen fuel, batteries, spares, security locks for garden/ horticultural machinery and trailers. horticultu
Appointed dealers for:
Main dealer for Briggs & Stratton, Honda, Kohler, Kawasaki & Mountfield engines.
Honeydon Road, Colmworth, Bedfordshire MK44 2LY
01234 376513 www.bri-ag.co.uk
Open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 12pm
Unique Landscape We specialise in
Patios, Fencing, Clear Ups Turf Laying, Hedge Trimming Tree Cutting, Tree Felling, Planting, Pruning, Driveways, Printed concrete, Stencil Concrete, Decking ...and much more
Free Quotations Reliable Friendly Service Mob: 07717 760851 Office: 01480 434401
www.uniquedrivewaylandscapes.com
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15% DISCOUNT ON ALL WORK CARRIED OUT OVER ÂŁ50 WITH THIS ADVERT
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Garage Door Problems?
Garage Doors All leading Makes of Doors Supplied, Fitted & Repaired Manual & Automatic Over 20 Years Experience
Phone Chris Day On:
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01480 459 721
High Street, Brampton
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Jaguar F-Type
by James Baggott The E-Type replacement has taken 50 years to arrive – can it live up to the legend? What is it? Quite simply, the most important Jaguar for more than 50 years. Not since the iconic E-Type has Jaguar launched a new model into this segment, and boy has the wait been worth it. The stunning F-Type is the British manufacturer’s new halo model – a high performance, two-seater convertible that’s charged with ‘changing the face of the brand’. Buyers are queuing up for them, with a six-month wait already in place, and that’s before any of them have driven it. What’s under the bonnet? There are three different models – the F-Type, F-Type S and F-Type V8S. The first two are V6s and the latter, obviously, a V8. All units are supercharged. The standard F-Type has a 3.0-litre V6 with 335bhp, 450Nm, hits 60mph in 5.1s and tops out at 161mph. The middle of the range F-Type S hits 60mph in 4.8s and cracks 171mph thanks to 375bhp and 460Nm. The range topping 5.0-litre V8S has a frightening 488bhp, 625Nm and tops 186moh with 60mph dispatched in 4.2 seconds. They all feel rapid and sound absolutely incredible thanks to an exhaust system which took 18 months to develop. What’s the spec like? Highlights include the eight-speed automatic gearbox (standard), the multi-adjustable sports seats, and Meridian sound system. There are some brilliant design touches too – like the central heater vents that rise out of the dash when you turn the air con on. And the deployable door handles that pop out of the bodywork. Ian Callum we salute you.
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Any rivals? Yes, several. But the biggest – the Voldemort of the Jaguar world (dare not speak his name or he’ll grow stronger) – is without doubt the Porsche 911. Jaguar benchmarked the German rival in all areas of the F-Type’s development. Other notable foes include the Audi R8 and Aston Martin V8 Vantage. All cost considerably more than the equivalent Jaguar. What’s it like to drive? Incredible. This is a drivers’ car through and through. We spent plenty of time in all derivatives and loved the crisp steering, the rapid eightspeed paddle shift box and the sound. Under acceleration all versions sound brilliant, and fizzle, crack and pop on the overrun. It feels a lot lighter than it looks – with extensive use of aluminium in the construction helping here. On the track it’s nimble and involving and huge fun while on the road it’s nothing short of intoxicating. We’d go as far as saying this is the best driver’s Jaguar ever. Lightweight The 50:50 weight distribution is key to the way the car feels. Engineers even moved the windscreen washer bottle to the rear to save 7kg from the front end. Some 50 per cent of the aluminium used is recycled – the bonnet alone is made from 26,000 drinks cans. Sales Of the 74m cars sold worldwide last year, just 0.6 per cent of them were sports cars. The US will account for 45% of sales, UK 25% and Germany 23%. Some 90% of buyers will be new to Jaguar. The verdict It’s the car of the year, without a shadow of a doubt. Our pick of the range would be the V6S – it’s just as much fun to drive as the V8, sounds just as brilliant, and the peaky power delivery is stunning. But the real coup is the pricing – every model is 25 per cent less than the equivalent 911, its bitter rival. Jaguar F-Type S Price: £67,500 Engine: 3.0-litre V6, supercharged Power: 357bhp, 460Nm Top speed: 171mph 0-60mph: 4.8s Economy: 31mpg Emissions: 213g/km
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The Smart choice for body repairs
body shop Vehicle repairs * Express * Alloy wheel refurbishment Same day repair * Free estimates Insurance*claims * *
Call us now on: 01480 407969 / 07734 145062 9 Chester Road, Colmworth Business Park, Eaton Socon, St Neots, Cambs PE19 8YT
web: www.getsmartexpress.co.uk / email: info@getsmartexpress.co.uk
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Bake yourself happy! Join our fun informal classes to learn baking cakes and artisan breads. Book online
www.birgitspatisserie.co.uk Tel 0844 3352802 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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SEASONAL DELIGHTS
SAGE AND PANCETTA ROAST CHICKEN Give classic roast chicken a tasty makeover with a handful of fresh sage and some delicious smoky flavoured Italian bacon called pancetta. Look out for thin rashers of pancetta in the deli section of your supermarket or buy freshly sliced from an Italian deli. Serve with roasted baby new potatoes and lightly steamed vegetables for a wonderful summer Sunday lunch. INGREDIENTS 1.3kg oven-ready chicken (preferably free range) 55g butter, softened Few fresh sage leaves Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped 85g smoked pancetta slices 115g fresh white breadcrumbs 1 medium egg, beaten Fresh sage leaves, to garnish Serves: 4 Ready in: 2 hours 30 minutes
1 Preheat the oven to 190C, 375F, Gas Mark 5. Place the chicken in a foil-lined roasting tin. Smear half the softened butter over the chicken breast, legs and wings and scatter over the sage leaves. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cover the chicken loosely with foil and roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour 10 minutes. Uncover and baste the chicken with any juices twice during cooking. 2 Meanwhile, melt the rest of the butter in a frying pan, add the chopped onion and fry gently for 5 minutes. Chop half the pancetta and add to the pan, frying for a further 5 minutes until the onion is softened and golden. Remove from the heat. Finely chop the rest of the sage and add to the pan with the breadcrumbs and seasoning. Leave to cool then stir in the beaten egg. Press the stuffing mixture into a greased 18cm round shallow cake tin. 3 Uncover the chicken and top with the rest of the pancetta slices. Return to the oven and roast, uncovered, for a further 25-35 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through – the juices should run clear with no sign of pinkness when the thickest part of the thigh is pierced. Cook the stuffing in the oven at the same time until set and pale golden. 4 Remove the chicken from the oven, cover and leave to rest for 10-15 minutes. Cut the stuffing into wedges and serve on a platter with the roast chicken, garnished with the fresh sage leaves. Tip - To make light gravy to serve with the roast chicken, drain off any excess fat from the roasting tin then heat the pan juices until sizzling. Add a splash of dry white wine or sherry then stir in a little plain flour and 1 tsp wholegrain mustard. Cook for 1 minute then gradually pour in 400ml hot chicken or vegetable stock and slowly bring to the boil, stirring all the time. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until just thickened. Season to taste with freshly ground black pepper.
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Your Local Reliable Electrician • Part P Electrician • Domestic/Commercial Installations • Inspection and Testing • Rewires, Newbuilds, Extensions, Consumer units • Free Estimates Contact Martin:
t: 01480
431 536 m: 07841 129 702
e: martin.wlf@googlemail.com
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Contemporary and traditional kitchens...
Designed, Supplied and Fitted... to your individual requirements
For a friendly and professional service contact Ryan: 01480 861928 / 07725 216978 lifelongkitchens@mail.com www.lifelongkitchens.co.uk
LESTER O’DRISCOLL CARPENTRY Door Hanging, Skirting, Flooring, Fitted Kitchens, Fencing, Decking, General Carpentry, Extensions
07842 195152 01480 811629 To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
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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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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
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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everything matters
Panasonic
HD smart TV’s , HDD Recorders, Audio Systems, & Camera’s, trust our expertise & tradition of best after sales service
A.N.Audio 34 Huntingdon Street St. Neots
phone:- 01480 472071 e-mail sales@anaudio.co.uk Hours:- Monday-Friday 9am-6pm Tuesday 9am-1pm Saturday:- 9am-5.30 pm www.anaudio.co.uk
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The Villager Prize Crossword Prize
£25
Name:
Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before 19th July 2013 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Tel:
Address:
Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Mrs D Carr – Godmanchester For last month’s solution please visit www.villagermag.com Across 1 French castle (7) 5 Competed (5) 8 Very alike (9) 9 Poem (3) 10 Consumed (5) 12 Reflects (7) 13 Friendships (13) 15 Immediate (7) 17 In front (5) 19 A pronoun (3) 20 Emergency vehicle (9) 22 Concede (5) 23 Captivate (7) Down 1 Illegal act (5) 2 Beer (3) 3 Died out (7) 4 Embarrassed (13) 5 Person in power (5) 6 Large reptile (9) 7 Frocks (7) 11 Magnifies distant objects (9) 13 Form of travel (7) 14 Bright red (7) 16 Prize (5) 18 Reside (5) 21 And not (3)
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what’S ON?
IN JULY
29 June-31 August Exhibition - Once Upon A Time... St Neots Museum, The Old Court, 8 New Street, St Neots Discover the stories that inspired Walt Disney, from Winnie-the-Pooh to Beauty and the Beast. An exhibition about children’s books since the Victorian period, featuring books from our collection, classic books and comics to browse through, a giant junk castle in a forest of trees and a series of fun activities for children. Family activities every Thursday and Friday in August. Let us know your favourite children’s books and lend us some for the exhibition – contact Liz. Tel: 01480 388921 Email: curators@stneotsmuseum.org.uk Web: www.stneotsmuseum.org.uk 1 July St Neots Astronomy Association 7.30pm The Visitors Centre Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, Little Paxton When Worlds Align by Mike Stevens. This will be a fun informative meeting with visual displays. Everyone welcome. We are a very friendly small club and new members are very welcome. We look forward to meeting you whether you’re a complete beginner or a veteran; we have something to offer you. Tel: David Roberts 01480 212960 Email: david@snaa.co.uk Tel: Nick Maudlin 01767 315678 Email: nick@snaa.co.uk Web: www.snaa.co.uk 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 July Bridge Club 7.30-9.30pm Roxton Village Hall Cost £3 Every Tuesday. Beginners welcome. Tel: 01767 448526 Web: www.greatbarfordbowlsclub.org.uk 3 July Little Paxton Gardening Club 8pm Little Paxton Village Hall Annual subscription £6. Meetings with speakers £1 and £2 for visitors Refreshments included. Plants on sale. 5 July Fashion Show 7.30PM Buckden Village Hall £6 including drink served by topless waiters Fashions by M & Co, Que Sera Childrens, Fenstanton Frock Exchange and the Fashion students of HRC. Tickets from Que Sera, High Street, Buckden or by telephone. Tel: Tickets 07905 225911 5 July Argo Doors open 7.30pm for 8pm start Corn Exchange, St Ives Tickets £5 Screen St Ives 2012. Remember the 1979 siege of the US Embassy in Tehran? The Shah had just been deposed and the CIA launched a covert mission to rescue six Embassy staff. Argo is a tense political thriller that also takes a wry look at Hollywood in the late 1970s. Winner of this year’s BAFTA and Oscar for Best Film, Argo continues to fuel debate over its portrayal of recent Middle East history. 50 tickets available – first come, first served. Web: www.screenstives.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 6 July 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 6 July St. Mary’s Church Fete 3pm Keysoe Village Hall Family fun event, stalls, games, refreshments, including Pimms. Grand prize draw with super prizes and Kymbrook School performance Round the day off with our now famous Hog Roast, starting at 5.00pm. Book tickets before the day. Donations of bric a brac, cakes, books and toys etc. welcome. Tel: Tickets 01234 378878 and donations 01234 376576 6 & 20 July Art Club Drop-In 11am-1pm St Neots Museum, The Old Court, 8 New Street, St Neots Adult £8, Children £5 Providing a space to create, in a relaxed but stimulating environment sessions led by local artist Melina Lafirenze. Tel: 01480 388921 or 01480 214163 Email: curators@stneotsmuseum.org.uk Web: www.stneotsmuseum.org.uk 6-7, 13-14, 20-21 & 27-28 July Cambridge Open Studios Every year the artists and craftspeople of Cambridgeshire welcome the public into their workspaces over four weekends in July, allowing them into their studios to see how their work is made. Painters, potters, jewellers, photographers – and much more! There are 269 individuals in 193 venues with studios located all over Cambridge and the surrounding area – including Ely, Soham and Saffron Walden. See website for full details. Web: www.camopenstudios.co.uk 7 July Animal Fun Day 10am-4pm Wood Green Animal Shelter, Godmanchester Fun dog show, ask the experts, pet toy making get up close with the animals at feeding time, shopping opportunities for you and your pets, school for dogs, bouncy castle and much, much more. Dogs welcome on lead. Web: www.woodgreen.org.uk 7 July Model Railway Open 2-5 pm 14 Boardman Close, Little Paxton Free admission, donations welcome St James Church, Little Paxton present A chance to see a Gauge 1 model railway in action. All proceeds to St James’ Church building project (CHUFT) 13 July Spaldwick Fete 11am-4pm followed by Hog Roast at 6pm Spaldwick School Village fete followed by Hog Roast at 6pm with entertainment.
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what’S ON? IN JULY
13 July Alconbury Neighbourhood Watch Village Fete 1pm Alconbury Village Green Coconut shy, W.I. Teas, fair rides, tombola, stalls, bar, school dancers. Re-enactment society performing all afternoon. Come and have a go at archery, coin stamping and much more. Tel: Debbie 01480 890821 13 July There and Back Again 1.30-3.30pm Wimpole Estate A 3 mile walk passing through woodland and parkland. Meet at the Stable Block. Web: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wimpole-estate/ 13 July Kimbolton Village Fayre 2-5pm St Andrew’s Church Kimbolton Adults 50p, children under 16 free Classes for all to enter from cake making to painting. Schedules available from Truffles & Twine & Fishers Kimbolton. Entries welcome on the day. A fun afternoon - lots of stalls, games and refreshments. In aid of St Andrew’s Church and local charities. 13 & 14 July Hemingford Grey Art Exhibition (Free admission) 10am-4pm Reading Room, Hemingford Grey Framed and unframed original paintings and cards for sale. All Donations to MAGPAS. 13, 17 & 24 July Hamlets, Hahas & Bowling Greens 11.30am-12.30pm Wimpole Estate A 1.2 mile walk exploring the history of the parkland. Meet at the Stable Block. Web: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wimpole-estate/ 15-19 July Holiday at Home for Senior Citizens 10am-4pm Godmanchester Baptist Church £5.00 per day including lunch and afternoon tea Activities include: Movie time (Summer Holiday), Music Time, Bingo, Sing Along, Beetle Drive, Fun & Games led by children from the local primary school, Godmanchester remembered plus a coach trip to Dobbies Garden Centre. Tel: 01480 458565 for details and booking Web: www.godmanchesterbaptist.org 16 July Out of Africa 7.30pm Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Kimbolton Flower Club. Demonstration by Shirley Henderson with the title “Out of Africa”. Visitors welcome - admission £6, including refreshments. Raffle of designs and plant and accessories sales table.
20 July Walking the Boundaries 10.30am-1.30pm Wimpole Estate A 5-6 mile walk visiting the far corners of the estate. Meet at the Stable Block. Web: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wimpole-estate/ 21 July Trip to Bressingham Gardens 9.45am St Neots & District Gardening Club leaving St. Neots at approx. 9.45am. Tel: David Usher 01480 476671 21 July Luton Male Voice Choir Concert 7pm St James Church, Little Paxton Adults £8, Children £4 including refreshments. Raffle. Tickets from Alison Rogers 01480 215607 25 July St Neots & District Gardening Club 8pm St. Mary’s Church Hall, Brook Street, St. Neots Non-Members £2.50 which includes refreshments and a raffle ticket. Gardener’s Question time. 25 & 26 July Heroes and Heroines for a Day! 11am-3pm St Neots Museum, The Old Court, 8 New Street, St Neots £2 per child Discover our magical stories exhibition, and feature in your own adventure story to take home as a small booklet. Inspired by our ‘Once Upon A Time…’ exhibition Tel: 01480 388921 Email: curators@stneotsmuseum.org.uk Web: www.stneotsmuseum.org.uk 27 & 28 July St Neots Regatta Rowing and Sculling events on both days. Live music Saturday night. Free camping all weekend. Hot and cold food available all weekend, barbeque and licensed bar. See the website for further information. Web: www.stneotsrc.co.uk 27 & 28 July St Neots Medieval Festival 10am-4pm St Neots Market Square Free event A celebration of St Neots medieval past. Meet a Benedictine monk and a knight in armour and his Lady, watch battle demonstrations, hear the music of the period, and discover when the St Neots stocks and whipping post were used and much more. Make a replica knights helmet or a lady’s headdress. 28-30 July Flower Festival – Celebration of Marriage Friday & Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday 12 noon-4pm St. Mary’s Parish Church, St Neots Refreshments and craft stalls.
17 July Huntingdonshire Family History Society Visit 2pm Members £5, Non-members £12 28 July Visit to Rippington Manor in Gt. Gransden. Tour of house Croydon cum Clopton Monthly Village Market and gardens plus afternoon tea. Meet at the front of the 10.30am-1pm High Street, SG8 ODN Free entry house. Please contact the Secretary by 3 July if you plan to Refreshments. Local businesses displaying and selling their attend to help with numbers for catering. produce and products. In support of Croydon Village Hall & Email: secretary@huntsfhs.org.uk All Saints Church. Web: To www.huntsfhs.org.uk Web:call www.stallsinthevillagehall.co.uk advertise in The Villager and Townlife please 01767 261 122 59
Sunday 14th July 2013 at Kimbolton Castle
New Show Ring Events • Food Court Largest Gathering of Classic Cars in Eastern England Attractions include:
Sealed Knot Re-enactment ‘Lord Robartes Regiment’ • Flyin’ Ryan Motorcycle Stunt Show Millers Ark Petting Zoo • Elaine Hill Sheep Dog Display • Flight Simulator • Lindy Hop Dancers Morris and Irish Dancers • Victorian Carousel • Galaxy Swing Band • Pace Setters Dog Show Inflatable Slide • Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Flypast • Over 50 Craft Stalls Tea and Beer Tents • 900 Classic Cars on Display • Dream Rides in Classic and Sports Cars and much more...
Fayre opens at 11.00am. Main Show Ring Events from 12.00pm Entrance: Adult £8, Family £18, Concession £5, Programme £1 All proceeds to charity. This year supporting HemiHelp, The Burns Camp, Cancer Research UK, EACH, The Samuel Pepys School and the East Anglian Air Ambulance. Organisers: Kimbolton Castle Rotary Club and Sporting Bears Motor Club
www.kimboltoncountryfayre.com Kimbolton Country Fayre Poster 2013.indd 1
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5/14/2013 8:20:25 PM
CGF Painting & Decorating 01480 391460 07544 207577 cgfpainting@gmail.com To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
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BOOK REVIEW
BY Bruce Edwards The White Queen Phillipa Gregory Simon & Schuster £7.99 paperback ISBN 9781471125812 There’s a considerable interest in historical fiction nowadays; the BBC has (happily) latched onto ‘The White Queen’, one of Phillipa Gregory’s best - and well researched - ventures into the historical genre. This re-issue will be welcome, especially as it prefaces the series based on the Tudor’s predecessors, the Plantagenets. The original was published in 2009 and the television series - inevitably - brings out the reprint; it’s a well known phenomena. Even so, it’s a good solid read, if only to spot the differences betwixt text and telly. When an attractive young girl waylays a handsome King with an eye for the ladies, what will transpire? An easy question to answer, except that Mistress Elizabeth Woodville will brook no easy access to her virtue; she even takes a dagger from her suitor to threaten him with her demise. Her ambition and drive does her credit, though the consequences are way beyond her imagination. What we have in this story is an imaginative and dramatic retelling in narrative diary format of the way we’ve been left with one of the most mysterious parts of royal history - the fate of Elizabeth’s sons. If there is a criticism, it is seeing events solely through Elizabeth’s eyes. Take away the trappings of period, court and language - though less distracting than they could be - and you’re back to a typical tense romance of any period. One advantage Edward had, though, - no hungry media frenzy watching his every conquest - until now
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