VILLAGER The
Issue 54 - October 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 54 - October 2013
and Town
Life
12
LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS
Win Tickets
To The Festive Gift fayre Covering: Buckden • Brampton • Cambourne • Godmanchester The Hemingfords and all surrounding areas
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Advertising Sales Christa Hallam - Tel: 07868 369257 Christa@villagermag.com Additional Editorial Tony Larkins, Peter Ibbett, Fiona McLeman, Sarah Davey, Susan Brookes, Bruce Edwards and James Baggott Front Cover Photo: Sandralise 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.
Gallery 1066 Baldock
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Prize Crossword £25 could be yours!
Who Would be a School Teacher.....................................................4 Tired of Trick or Treating.....................................................................6 Award Success for Hunts Country Parks.......................................8 Wordsearch........................................................................................... 19 UK Autumn Breaks............................................................................. 21 How to Find a Lawyer....................................................................... 25 Kimbolton School Pool Timetable................................................ 26 Why Make a Will.................................................................................. 28 Basic Inheritance................................................................................ 31 Storm and Wind Damage................................................................ 35 Kingfishers - Wildlife Trust............................................................... 36 Flower of the Month.......................................................................... 37 Fun Quiz................................................................................................. 37 Children’s Page.................................................................................... 39 Driving 911 HUL.................................................................................. 40 Seasonal Delights............................................................................... 45 TXT SPK 4 UNCOOL PPL................................................................... 47 Puzzle Page........................................................................................... 48 Autumn Colours.................................................................................. 50 How to Make your Child a Millionaire......................................... 57 What’s On.............................................................................................. 58 Book Review......................................................................................... 63 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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Who Would be a Schoolteacher?
BY PETER IBBETT
The Free School at Eynesbury had Ann Clark as mistress in 1830 in buildings demolished in 1960 in the Old School Yard (just off the Green). Hopefully the children of Eynesbury had a better experience than those of the Dickensian schoolmaster in ‘The Old Curiosity Shop’ whose pupils rand rings around his good nature. The young of Eynesbury were taken under the wing of the Rev Palmer who moved the school into his stable and coachhouse, whose building still survives today in the shadow of Eynesbury Church. The school gained a good reputation with one source describing it as ‘the best in the county with an excellent choir’. The Rev. Maule (rector from 1851 to 1890) set about collecting money to build a new school which was opened by the Bishop of Ely in 1868. Mr A. E. Jennings (appointed in 1876) gained affection and respect as ‘the ideal village schoolmaster’ with former pupils in 1919 donating £100 to set up a Memorial Fund to support local pupils who wished to become teachers. One St. Neots man who became a teacher was Reg Bonham, one of six children of a local butcher, whose blindness did not prevent him from becoming the Maths master at Worcester College for the Blind. One former
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pupil described how his blind pupils took a great (Dickensian) delight in what had become a school tradition of ‘Bonham Baiting’! This ‘kindly, avuncular genius, winner of maths prizes at Oxford and Chess Grandmaster had no sense of direction’. As Reg ‘taught on the move’ one favourite trick was to place a hardboard braille map on a bookshelf at throat level. ‘The result was ‘predictable and always satisfying’ to the classroom of blind pupils! Let St. Neots museum or pjibbett@aol.com know of any ‘teacher baiting’ or memorable schoolteachers that made a difference to your life.
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Tired of trick-or-treating?
By Alex Brown
Take away the worry this Halloween and try something different Halloween is on the horizon again and with it comes the trick-or-treating dilemma. For some, it is just a bit of harmless fun. However, many parents are concerned about the safety aspects of knocking on strangers’ doors, while others object to the idea of ‘begging’ for sweets. If you’re not keen, there are still plenty of ways to get into the spirit of Halloween and enjoy yourselves at home. Apple-bobbing is the traditional game for this time of year. Simply place a few fruits in a bowl of water and challenge children to grab one with their teeth – no hands allowed! Getting dressed-up is another great part of Halloween. Invite some friends round and organise a costume parade. You could give prizes for the best homemade outfit, most scary, or most unusual. To really gross out your guests, organise a touchy-feely challenge. Assemble foods that can double-up as creepy body parts – for example, cold cooked spaghetti, jelly or baked beans make great innards, sausages or gherkins can be witch’s fingers, and imagine that pickled onions are vampire’s eyeballs. Cover each bowl with a cloth and see if your guests are brave enough to put in a hand and guess what they can feel! Many party games can be adapted to suit a spooky
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celebration. Instead of a donkey, how about Pin the Nose on the Witch? Draw a witch on a large piece of paper, and ask children to cut out noses from coloured paper. They are then blindfolded and turned around three times before trying to stick their nose in the correct position. When it’s time for a dance, have yourself a Monster Mash! Play some lively tunes and when the music stops, everyone stands as still as a statue in their most terrifying pose. Finally, wind down with a game of Sleeping Zombies. You simply have to lie on the floor and stay completely still. Anyone who moves is out. It’s harder than it sounds and children love it! How to trick-or-treat safely If you do want to go trick-or-treating, you can have fun and stay safe if you follow some basic rules: • Younger children should always go out with an adult. Agree a curfew for older children and make sure you know who they are with and where they are going. Remind children never to go into the house of anyone they do not know. • If possible, agree in advance with your neighbours which houses you will visit. Do not go to homes that aren’t lit. • Dark costumes make children difficult for motorists to see. Take a torch and wear glow bands or fluorescent strips.
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Little Venice is a family run business which prides itself on providing its guests with a unique and memorable L I T T L E VENICE
Italian dining experience New Fish Menu Available Book Now for Christmas Available for all parties, Birthdays, Weddings, Christenings
If you’re looking for somewhere which offers something a little different, then look no further than Little Venice. An Italian dining experience with a distinct difference. Mon-Fri: 12.00-2.30pm, 5.30-10.30pm Sat-Sun: 12.00-10.30pm Food & Hygiene Award Awarded by the Food Standards Agency
St Neots Road, A428, Caxton Gibbet CB23 3PD Tel: 01954 715 315 Email: info@lvrest.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122
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AWARD SUCCESS
FOR HUNTINGDONSHIRE’S COUNTRY PARKS Open spaces owned and managed by Huntingdonshire District Council have seen success at the annual Anglia in Bloom competition. Hinchingbrooke Country Park, Huntingdon was awarded Gold in the new category for country parks and Holt Island, St Ives won the biodiversity award for the second time in four years, whilst Godmanchester Community Nursery was nominated in the best garden for special needs category. Coneygear Park, Huntingdon was also part of the route that was visited for the Moor in Bloom entry which was awarded silver. The awards were announced at the Anglia in Bloom ceremony which took place in St Albans on Tuesday 10 September. Councillor Darren Tysoe, Executive Councillor for Environment, said: “The district council is proud to have such a large number of open spaces. This summer has particularly proved that when finances are short, and the sun is shining, residents choose with their feet and visit outdoor areas,
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taking with them kites and picnics, or attending organised events. Visiting judges can see that the district is relatively litter free and well kept, and the fact that each year this is recognised by Anglia in Bloom, and our green spaces continue to win different titles, is credit to the hard work that is undertaken by a large number of staff.” Countryside Co-ordinator Judith Arnold said: “All of our winning sites would not be anything like they are today without the help of dedicated volunteers who have a wide range of skills, and district council rangers are incredibly lucky to have their support. Their enthusiasm and knowledge ensures that we constantly receive and act upon new ideas, and with their help we are able to apply for additional grants to continue improving facilities.” Further information about the district council’s green spaces can be found at www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk
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COMPETITION PAGES COMPETITION PAGES CHRISTMAS IS AROUND THE CORNER!
MORE TO SEE, TRY, TOUCH, TASTE, ENJOY … AND BUY at THE FESTIVE GIFT FAIR Join in the fun at the fabulous FESTIVE GIFT FAIR, the biggest and best Christmas Shopping Fair, returns to the NEC for four days from 21 – 24 November. Christmas means gifts for your loved ones, hanging decorations on the tree, excitement on children’s faces, party clothes, stockings hanging over the hearth, a table fit for a festive feast! The run up to Christmas Day involves lots of planning! The hardest and often most time consuming part is buying the presents. There’s no need to be stuck for ideas, Festive Gift Fair makes it so easy. From the moment you arrive, you’ll get into the Christmas spirit, and be caught up in the excitement of browsing round over 325 stalls hunting for your perfect gifts. And when your bags are full, you can drop them off at the Present Crèche and continue to shop, stop for a bite to eat and enjoy some great Christmas music by bands and choirs. It’s no wonder this is one of the most popular events at the NEC! We love the challenge of finding unusual gift
ideas – with so many to see at the Fair, selecting the best is a challenge indeed! EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY! Raise a glass! That’s the spirit! FOR THE WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE. Mum, Wife, Sister, Aunt, Girlfriend - There’s nothing more satisfying than finding a special thoughtful surprise they will love. …. FOR THE MEN IN YOUR LIFE. Chaps can be notoriously difficult to buy for – you’ll find Whisky, woollies, watches, clever gadgets and silly stocking fillers at Festive Gift Fair………. KIDS STUFF. You’ve managed to keep the presents out of sight from little prying eyes for weeks, and NOW the big day is here. All smiles on Christmas Day! SET THE SCENE FOR A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS. Dressing the tree is just the start! Dressing your table, your hall, your mantle-piece can all help make Christmas Day really special. Light lots of twinkling candles, use elegant glasses, colour coordinated linen… you’ll find lots of inspiration at Festive Gift Fair.
We have 10 pairs of tickets to give away Simply send your name and address to the address below by Fri 8th Nov 2013. Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP The Winner will be drawn at random.
If you are not a lucky winner, advanced tickets are priced from just £8.50. Book now by calling NEC Ticket Hotline on 0844 581 0808/0809 or online at www.theticketfactory.com (£1.50 per booking transaction).
COMPETITION PAGES COMPETITION PAGES 12
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Gallery 1066 putting art
into the heart of the next generation
By Doug Hyde
By Doug Hyde
Gallery 1066 putting art into the heart of the next generation with Primary School initiative. Gallery 1066 are helping to encourage art as a fun way to express yourself and are kicking off their first initiative with local primary schools. In conjunction with the launch of the new collection by the UK’s much loved and award winning artist Doug Hyde, 1066 are encouraging teachers, mums and dads to bring their children along and get involved in the first ’primary interschool competition’. On the 19th – 27th October, 1066 will be exhibiting an exclusive range of Doug’s new edition paintings, sculpture and unseen originals. Doug Hyde is a unique artist who brings love, happiness and laughter through his paintings and is loved by all age groups - you cannot help but smile when you see his work. Having captured the nation with his whimsical style since 2002 it is no surprise Doug is now firmly the best selling, UK living artist. The painting competition will consist of the option to bring a Doug Hyde picture to life which you
will be able to download off the website or pick up a printed copy from the gallery.... OR create your very own Doug Hyde painting! For the most creative entry Gallery 1066 will donate a signed Limited edition painting to the winner with runner up prizes and for the most entries received from any one school the gallery will pledge a donation to their art department. For a chance to win your very own Doug Hyde painting, a prize that will last a life time - Gallery 1066 are asking everyone with children from reception to year 6 to support this, it’s free to enter and the top 10 pieces will be displayed at the gallery alongside the winning piece. For more information on the Dough Hyde Show and this competition please contact the Gallery on 01462 622233, info@gallery1066fineart.com or www.gallery1066fineart.com
By Mark Spain
By John Waterhouse
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Autumn Crafts@Wood Green Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 October Wood Green Godmanchester Centre London Road nr. Godmanchester Cambridgeshire PE29 2NH
Designer Maker Arts Crafts Seasonal Foods and Drinks
between 10am - 4.30pm
Visit our Autumn Crafts at Wood Green. Whatever the weather, you can visit the indoor arena and sample and buy from our wide range of arts, craft and gift stalls where you might find anything from jewellery and other accessories, handicrafts, hand
admission: ÂŁ2.50 concession: ÂŁ2 child 5 years and younger FREE
made cards, photography, candles, aromatherapy
FREE PARKING
Food and drink might include wine, real-food as well
products, through to ceramics and wood turning. as hand-made chocolates and other confectionery
SUPPORTED BY
MAY 2014 SUPPORTING
oakleighfairs.co.uk
I
01206 263088
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Acupuncture
Judy Lenton B.A. (Hons) Lic,Ac. MBAcC
located at
Headz Up 65 High Street Brampton Huntingdon Cambridgeshire PE28 4TQ
Traditional acupuncture for health &
telephone
wellbeing
01480 229029
mobile
07557 282617
info@judylentonacupuncture.co.uk or visit
www.judylentonacupuncture.co.uk
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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.
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Jazzercise got me back in my dress size. It fuels my mind and spirit while toning every inch of my body. - Bo 44
ÂŁ5 for 2 classes
New customers or those returning after 6 months only. Other restrictions may apply. Bring this Ad with you.
St Neots
Priory Jr School, Longsands Road Mon & Wed 6.45pm & 8pm, Sat 9am Express (30 min) Mon & Fri 6pm No need to book • Classes also in Cambourne, Sandy, St Ives, Cambridge, Longstanton & other areas. For further info go to
www.jazzfitness.co.uk
or call 01480 216090
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Shires Mobile Footcare ...because feet matter
Treatment of common foot disorders in the comfort of your own home Professional treatment includes: • Callus reduction • Corn removal • Toe nail trimming • Fungal/thickened toe nail treatment • Cracked heel reduction • Athletes foot treatment
For further enquiries call Sam on:
01480 819 453 M. 07715 085 131 T.
Samantha Craig BA Hons, SAC Dip FHPT, SAC Dip FHPP, MRFHP
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UK Autumn Breaks
By Susan Brookes
Autumn is a great time to take a break in the UK. If you are looking for a romantic holiday, then what could be better than a long walk admiring Autumn’s fiery foliage, a sumptuous meal, and then an evening at a cosy pub in front of a roaring log fire. Why not choose accommodation that includes a hot tub or spa for added indulgence? On an active break, you could make the most of the outdoors before the weather turns too cold by taking in the sights on a bike, or whilst climbing or horse riding. For families, there’s still plenty of time for fun to be had. Many holiday parks and attractions now stay open until at least the end of the October half term holiday, and most self catering accommodation is now heated. In addition to choosing a location that has arboretums, forests and gardens where you can enjoy the glory of the trees in full colour, you may also want to plan to be close to one of these events:
Malvern Autumn Show, Three Counties Show Ground, 28-29 September 40th Anniversary Autumn Steam Gala, North Yorkshire Moors Railway, 27-29 September South of England Autumn Show and Game Fair, Ardingly, 5-6 October Autumn Countryside Show, Weald and Downland Open Air Museum, 12-13 October Autumn Air Show, Imperial War Museum Duxford, 13 October Family Arts Festival, UK wide, 18 October - 3 November Autumn Food, Drink and Music Show, Fishguard, 30 October - 3 November
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WE NEED YOU… to make a difference Foster with Cambridgeshire County Council We offer generous allowances including a start up package, 24hr support and full training.
CALL US TODAY ON FREEPHONE
0800 052 0078 www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/fostering
Absolutely ... Positively ... NO pressure to sell! We give you FREE VALUATIONS .... YOU DECIDE !
WE PAY
CASH Cambridge Coins and Jewellery Coins, Medals, Banknotes, Tokens, Postcards.
Anything GOLD any SILVER....even broken jewellery!
Buying and selling old Coins, Military Medals, Tokens, Banknotes and bullion ...as well as Jewellery.
52 High Street // Biggleswade // Beds // SG18 0LJ // (Opposite “The Codfather”) Open Wednesday to Saturday. 11am to 7pm
t: 01767 600 300 e: shop@cambridgecoins.co.uk 22
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ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS AND BUILDING DESIGN SERVICES Professional and affordable architectural design services provided for all types of private residential building projects with all necessary council approvals obtained.
For free estimates and advice, contact Jason Dixon on:01767 677540 or 07908 004816 e-mail: JTDixon101@aol.com No VAT payable for design and drawing services on residential projects Jason Dixon, 101 Meadow Road, Great Gransden, Sandy, SG19 3BB.
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Anstee Gorst
Chartered Certified Accountants
- 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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How to find a lawyer
Fiona McLeman Family Law At this time of year, many solicitors anecdotally report that after the school summer holidays have ended, there is an uptake in new enquiries. This seems a good time to talk about choosing a lawyer. How to find a lawyer A good start is to ask friends and family members if they have a recommendation. The best connections are likely to come from those around you who have used a solicitor in the past or who may have contacts. Look for a solicitor that specializes, not dabbles, in family law. Find out if they are a member of Resolution www. resolution.org.uk. Making the first contact? Contact the lawyer by email or telephone. Don’t feel afraid to ask questions –find out their availability, capacity to take on new work, how they work, what’s involved, how quickly they expect to turn work around, charging processes and how they offer first meetings. Don’t be afraid to ‘shop around’, ask questions, and find a lawyer who you think may be the best match. What should I look for in my lawyer? You need to feel that your lawyer is going to support you, be available to you and give you the best possible representation. Don’t be tempted to instruct the lawyer who has given you advice you like the sound of. It’s often the advice you don’t want to hear that can be the most important to you. What happens at the first meeting? The law relating to family breakdown is complicated and there are many factors
to consider. A solicitor should require comprehensive information from you before they can give tailored advice, but they should be able to give you an initial overview of your situation. They should be able to discuss options, outline the next steps and give you some general and practical guidance, and an estimate of costs. How much? It may be tempting to instruct the lawyer who gives the cheapest estimate of costs. Remember that this is only an estimate and that you may end up paying more. Don’t necessarily instruct the lawyer who is the ‘cheapest’ unless they also happen to be the lawyer who you feel suits you best. Find out whether the lawyer can offer fixed fee charges for any aspects of their work. This may suit your budgeting. Others can also offer bespoke ‘pay as you go’ services, or set caps on fees, or staging their representation to suit your pocket. For further information about your situation following relationship breakdown, please contact Fiona McLeman Family Law.
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Why make a Will?
LEEDS DAY SOLICITORS Why make a Will? Writing a Will is one of the most important things you can do for your family. If you die without a Will, the law will dictate how your money, property or possessions will be allocated. This may not be in the way that you would have wished. A surviving husband or wife may not receive everything you wish them to. Unmarried partners will not automatically inherit from each other and this may create serious financial problems for the surviving partner.If you have children, a Will will enable you to make arrangements for them if either or both parents die. A Will may enable a couple to protect part of their property from being used to fund future care home fees if one spouse dies and the other then resides in a care home. What should be included in a Will? Before making a Will, you should consider the assets you have including savings, investments, property, personal possessions, pensions and life policies. You should consider who you want to benefit from these assets. You should also consider who you wish to carry out the terms of your Will. In your Will, you will need to appoint people to deal with your financial matters after your death. These people are known as the executors and trustees of the Will. If you have young children you should consider who you would wish to be responsible for them in the
event of your death. In the Will guardians can be appointed to be responsible for young children. Change of circumstances When a Will has been made, it is important to keep it up to date. It is advisable to review a Will regularly to make sure that it still reflects your wishes. Some of the most common changes of circumstances which affect a Will are marriage, divorce, separation or the the birth or adoption of children. How to change a Will You may want to change your Will if there has been a change of circumstances. To do this a new Will should be made or if the amendments are minor, a Codicil (which is a supplementary document) could be prepared to record small alterations to the Will itself. What next? If you have not made a Will before and wish to do so or wish to update your existing Will, please contact us at Leeds Day to arrange to discuss your particular circumstances. You can send an email to wills.leedsday.co.uk. Alternatively, please visit our website www.leedsday.co.uk/ wills. We have a questionnaire on our website which may be of use to you in considering your wishes for your Will. And afterwards‌? Once you have made your Will it can be stored in our storage system for safekeeping at no extra charge. We will provide you with a copy of the signed document for your own records.
www.leedsday.co.uk Huntingdon Godwin House, George Street, Huntingdon, PE29 3BD T: 01480 454301 28
Our offices: St. Ives 11 Station Road, St. Ives, Cambridgeshire PE27 5BH T: 01480 464600
St. Neots 1A South Street, St. Neots, Cambridgeshire, PE19 2BW T: 01480 474661
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Basic Inheritance
Tax Planning
It was George Bernard Shaw who said a “lack of money is the root of all evil”, but having what the Government calls ‘a lot’ can mean Inheritance Tax (IHT). In summary, everyone has an allowance of £325K and not only is there no IHT between UK husbands and wives, but unused allowances are also transferable between the two. For many with not much more than a normal house and a few thousand in the bank IHT will never be an issue, and as long as their Will is clear, the final estate should be simple to sort. But, what about those that live in a higher priced home, have good pension funds, death in service or life cover and may be also own a business? With the aid of various trusts and allowances there should be no IHT liability on the first to die, but suddenly all that value would now appear in the estate of the second to die. Wills can sometimes be changed for the deceased even after they have passed on to the next world, but imagine how much easier it would be to address this earlier, rather than at a time of high emotional stress. Arranging such matters as estates and beneficiaries is called “estate planning”. Unfortunately, it is one area that is often overlooked or deliberately ignored, for fear of tempting fate. Many things such as using trusts and a carefully worded Will can avoid IHT altogether. Changing the way the home is owned as well as property portfolios and shares can also help. Unfortunately, finding a solicitor or accountant who fully understands trusts and tax is not as easy as you might think. Most IFA’s have not studied both
Tony Larkins CFP APFS Managing Director / IFA Chartered and Certified Financial Planner
or either of these areas above the basic diploma level. I do not think I have ever met a Will writer who understands much more than how to sell extras to a Will following a sales training course. For many individuals planning can be basic, but sometimes what appears a simple solution can lead to even greater and unintended consequences. So, how do you find the right person to advise you on whether you need to take any action, and if so what action should you take? We work all our lives to build up value and when we die we want to choose the beneficiary, giving a large political donation on death is not usually our main priority. If you recognise that IHT is 40% above the Nil Rate Band (taxed at £325K until 2018), an estate valued at £870K with three beneficiaries, could see the Government receive a higher amount than each of the beneficiaries. This figure drops to £750K with four beneficiaries e.g. grandchildren. It can cost far less to plan in advance than to pay the actual tax. You will then ensure that the right people benefit and your estate is much easier to sort. I suggest you start with the professionals you already know. Ask your solicitor if they fully understand the area and check with your IFA that they have either advanced qualifications in trusts and tax or are a member of the society of trusts and estate planners (STEP), but by qualification not just by paying a fee. 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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Rid your lawn of moss & weeds. Start today!
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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
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Open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 12pm
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Storm & Wind Damage to Trees Following high winds it is important to have you trees checked for potential defects that could lead to your trees failure. Large trees in prominent location need to be inspected on annual basis. Tree owners have a “Duty of Care” to ensure their trees are safe which will also help should a tree fail and an insurance claim is made. Prevention of damage is always favourable but trees should also be checked following high winds. What to look for Key indicators of tree damage and failure are: • Cracks and splits in structural sections of the tree. • Roots lifting at the base of the stem • Broken limbs in the canopy Structural damage can be limited with regular pruning, structural supports and preventative maintenance. The loss of a tree can cause serious Health & Safety issues as well as the potential loss of a beautiful tree from the landscape. 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 To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122
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SURECLEAN Gutter Cleaning Gutters cleaned safely from the ground using our ladderless gutter cleaning system. Powerful vacuum will remove leaves, moss and all debris and make no mess. We can clean up to the height of 40ft.
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KINGFISHERS
WILDLIFE TRUST The fascinating lives of kingfishers will be the focus of an illustrated talk to be given to the Wildlife Trust, Huntingdonshire Local Group, on Wednesday 9th October 2013 at 7.30pm at Brampton Memorial Hall, Thrapston Road, Brampton. These beautiful bank-nesting birds are well known to the public, but are seen only rarely. They are protected under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This week we are lucky enough to host Jeff Harrison, who has been studying, monitoring and photographing Kingfishers at their nest sites for many years. Jeff is licensed by Natural England and the BTO and this has enabled him to get close enough to observe those behaviors that remain a mystery to many of us. We are delighted that Jeff will unveil their secret lives tonight. Anyone interested in wildlife is most welcome to attend. Suggested donation: ÂŁ2.00 members; ÂŁ2.50 non-members. Please visit the web site for more information or contact Phil on 01487 822835
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Flower of the Month (October)
Schizostylis coccinea To be honest it was difficult to pick a plant for this month. Campanula rotundifolia (the Harebell) is still in a mass of flowers even though it started in April. The Rudbeckias are going over, offering their large central seed cones to the finches, a few of the South American Salvias still refusing to give up and some of the Geraniums are providing a second flush of late flowers. We don’t grow many red-hot pokers (Kniphofia) but we like the small yellow variety, Little Maid. It is diffi-cult to believe that a plant from South Africa has decided to provide us with a second set of flower spikes so late in the season. Our selection for this month is another South African beauty, Schizostylis coccinea – the Kaffir Lily. Flowers range in colour from pure white through shades of pink and on to reds and crimson. According to some it flowers from August to September but our pink variety always flowers later We grow ours in a south facing border. The soil is a little heavy which means the plants do not dry out during a hot summer. Don’t let them spend the
winter is water logged soil and protect a little in the coldest winters. They can take a year or two to settle down so try not to move them, they do not care for disturbance. We think our “Plant of the Month” is worth the effort. Schizostylis coccinea. Gareth Arscott www.buckdenperennialplants.webs.com
Fun Quiz - Halloween 1. In Stephen King’s novel It, Pennywise was the name of a monster who disguised himself as what? 2. If your birthday was on Halloween, what would your star sign be? 3. On Sesame Street, what colour is the Cookie Monster’s fur? 4. How does the Wicked Witch of the East die at the start of the 1939 film The Wizard Of Oz? 5. What is the only American state that does not contain any letters from the word “Halloween” in its name? 6. Found on the island of Madagascar, what animal is named after a type of ghost or spirit from Roman mythology due to its reflective eyes, nocturnal habits and a ghostly sound that some species make? 7. What word from the NATO phonetic alphabet is also the first name of Doctor Frankenstein in Mary Shelley’s famous novel? 8. In which 1999 film does Cole Sear say “I see dead people”? 9. True or False... Vampire bats feed on blood? 10. Which 1990s film features the character of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town? 1. A clown 2. Scorpio 3. Blue 4. Dorothy’s house falls on her 5. Mississippi 6. The lemur 7. Victor 8. The Sixth Sense 9. True 10. The Nightmare Before Christmas
Before
After
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A flexible day nursery for children from 6 weeks to 5 years with extensive and well resourced grounds. ur o y f f o Excellent links to s onth’ 1st m es the A1, St Neots and fe Sandy railway station.
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WOOD GREEN... After dark Halloween fun Monday 28 October 5.00pm – 6.30pm Godmanchester Centre £5 per child Meet some of our nocturnal animals, face your fears in the rodent room, feed our animals some Halloween treats and join us for spooky story time. Prize for the best Halloween costume. Suitable for 5 year olds and over and booking essential.
Halloween Fun
Animal rehoming
26th October – 3rd November, 10.00am – 3pm Godmanchester Centre FREE
Charity Shop
Bring the kids to Wood Green this October half term and let them take part in our Halloween Fun Trail. Find the 12 spooky clues around Wood Green to win a prize.
Children’s play area
Why not stop for a coffee or lunch in our spooky themed coffee shop.
Open 7 days a week
To book for all events call the Hands On team on 0844 248 8181 or email for further information handson@woodgreen.org.uk
Restaurant Pet & Gift Shop Children’s ‘hands on’ events 10.00am – 4.00pm Free entry
Call: 0844 248 8181 King’s Bush Farm, Visit: www.woodgreen.org.uk London Road, Godmanchester, Or Email: info@woodgreen.org.uk Cambridgeshire, PE29 2NH Registered Charity No. 298348.
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The Animals Charity
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WGAS Villager 131w x 93h Cambs 9.13.indd 1
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A week with a legend: Driving 911 HUL
by James Baggott
I’d been looking forward to this moment for years – driving a Porsche with the famous 911 HUL number plate. I’ve been a motoring nut for years, spending money I often didn’t have on car magazines, long before I could even drive. And it was on those glossy pages that I became familiar with the famous plate. Owned by Porsche GB for decades it was the first private plate the firm acquired and ever since has taken pride of place on the Porsche press fleet Turbo models. I’d seen it flying through the air in pictures on the pages of Evo, shot by countless talented car snappers over the years, and now it was my time to drive it. Here’s my week behind the wheel of Porsche’s fastest 997 edition – the 911 Turbo S with a very special moniker. Day One - It’s only you that cares – shouted one pre-pubescent member of the team as I explained, to yet another 911 admirer who clearly didn’t share my enthusiasm for six numbers and letters, what the plate meant to car fans. Most people were more interested in the colour our test car had arrived in. Paint jobs make or break cars and the camouflage green our test car had arrived in was clearly splitting opinion. Still, it could have been painted pink for all I cared as what was sitting over the rear wheels was far more of interest to me. The 3.8-litre, turbocharged lump produces a whopping 530bhp and 700Nm of torque thanks to a tweaked turbo output. The drive north to our photoshoot at Rockingham was one of the longest (traffic) but most enjoyable I’ve ever had. Day Two - Photoshoot day at Rockingham and we’ve got 15 cars lined up for a series of tests. Also here is three times British superbike championship winner John Reynolds on the latest Suzuki GSX-R1000. He’s at our shoot to take on the Nissan Juke R (search for the video on YouTube) but it’s only fair we let him try his luck against the Porsche too… With a 0-60mph sprint time of 3.1 seconds, the PDK automatic gearbox and launch control system mean that’s very achievable every time. Engage Sport Plus, floor the throttle with your foot on the brake, and the revs settle at a heady rpm. When you lift off the brake the car thunders towards the finish line in a cacophony of air sucking, turbo whooshing and tyres ripping chunks out of the asphalt. All I have to do is steer. You can see the results of our race in another video on YouTube… Day Three - Two tanks of fuel into the loan and I’m impressed the Turbo S is returning 26mpg. My old
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Focus ST never got any better than 23mpg on a long journey and considering this has such an almighty power output that’s very impressive. Today I’m heading into London for a meeting with the Queen. Well, I say meeting, I really mean a concert in her garden for the Coronation Festival. For what is essentially a rival to a Ferrari 458 or McLaren 12C, the Turbo S is fantastically well behaved in the clogged up capital. Visibility is excellent and although it’s got a low splitter at the front, speed humps aren’t really a problem nor tight underground and overpriced car parks. The drive back south is a magical one. London’s streets are a joy in the small hours of the morning and each traffic light gives me a chance to test the wife’s neck muscles. Day Four-Six - It’s the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Porsche is headlining the event, celebrating 50 years of the 911, and I can’t quite believe I’ve got the honour of driving 911 HUL to the south coast celebration of combustion. It’s clear on the way there and back that the plate doesn’t just hold sway with me. I lose count of the number of phones I see trained on the Porsche, capturing pictures for tweets and status updates. Day Seven - Gosport to Chester – some 250 miles – lay ahead and even at 9pm the digital temperature gauge is reading 25 degrees C. Hot tarmac and sticky tyres make the trip a delight as we collect the cast and extras of Bug’s Life on the bonnet. The seats get a little uncomfortable over long distance – they’re fixed carbon fibre jobs – but apart from that the Turbo S is a competent tourer. It’s time for 911 HUL to return to Porsche. After a week behind the wheel of the monster I’m smitten. Yes, the ride is firm and the tyre noise a little intrusive. Granted the seats aren’t the most cosseting and the 997 interior is showing its age now the 991 has arrived. However, never have I driven a car quite so intoxicating, quite so full of character and quite so mind-alteringly fast as the Turbo S. The fact it was wearing one of the most iconic plates in motoring folklore simply made the whole experience all the more special. Porsche 911 Turbo S Price: £130,791 Engine: 3.8-litre, turbo Power: 530bhp, 700Nm 0-60mph: 3.1s Max: 196mph
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The Smart choice for body repairs
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HIDATO Starting at 1 and finishing at 34, track your way from one hexagon to another (touching) hexagon, placing consecutive numbers into the empty shapes as you go. Some numbers are already given.
ŠPuzzlepress.co.uk ŠPuzzlepress.co.uk
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CD
Garage Door Problems?
Garage Doors All leading Makes of Doors Supplied, Fitted & Repaired Manual & Automatic Over 20 Years Experience
Phone Chris Day On:
07899 903973
01480 459 721
High Street, Brampton
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GDC HEATING
Plumbing, Gas and Oil Heating Engineers
36 Rookery Road, Wyboston, Bedfordshire MK44 3AX
Tel: 01480 215821 01582 867152 www.gdcheating.com Email: enquiries@gdcheating.com Boiler Repairs/Servicing/Installation Full Heating Installations Efficiency Upgrades Bathroom Design and Installation Specialist Powercleaning Service 30 Years in Business
Reg No. 112425
New Decorations Interior and Exterior Painting Wallpapering
Mark Newman
Painting & Decorating m.a.newman@virgin.net
01954212342 07969650344 164 Limes Road, Hardwick Cambridge CB23 7XX 44
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SEASONAL DELIGHTS
Chilli chicken stew With Halloween at the end of the month, why not plan a ghostly gathering and serve up this hot and spicy chicken stew? Perfect for filling up hungry trick or treaters. INGREDIENTS 1-2 tbsp sunflower oil 1 large onion, peeled and cut into chunks 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 1 small red chilli pepper, deseeded and finely chopped (optional) 6 large skinless chicken fillets, cut into pieces 2 x 400g can chopped tomatoes 2 tbsp sun-dried tomato puree 2 tsp dried oregano 1 x 400g can kidney beans in chilli sauce 1 red, 1 green and 1 yellow pepper, deseeded and diced Salt and freshly ground black pepper Warm crusty bread, to serve Serves 6-8 Ready in 1 hour 45 minutes 1 Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a large, deep flameproof
casserole and fry the onion and garlic for 5 minutes until softened and golden. Add the chilli pepper (if using) and chicken pieces and cook over a medium heat, stirring all the time, until the chicken pieces are lightly browned all over, adding a little extra oil if needed. 2 Stir in the tomatoes, tomato puree, oregano and 200ml water and bring to the boil. Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper then reduce the heat, partially cover and simmer for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. 3 Add the kidney beans and diced peppers to the casserole and simmer, uncovered, for a further 20-25 mins until the peppers are tender and some of the liquid has reduced. Serve in mugs or bowls with chunks of warm crusty bread. Tip - For a hot non-alcoholic punch to serve with the stew, pour a large carton of apple juice into a saucepan. Core and slice 2 small apples and add to the pan with one thinly sliced lemon and a couple of cinnamon sticks. Heat gently for about 10 minutes, then pour in 1 litre of ginger ale. Heat through for a further minute then serve in heatproof glasses or tumblers.
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TXT SPK 4 UNCOOL PPL
By Sarah Davey
I have three teenagers who are compulsive texters. Hence I receive at least a dozen texts per day. Unfortunately I don’t speak TXT fluently so they take ages for me to decipher. In the end I asked my son to pen me a brief guide. He rolled his eyes then dutifully obliged. I offer it up to other non-TXT-speaking parents. NP - No problem. To be fair I’d kind of worked this one out, but they use it a lot so I’ve included it. WBU - What about you? PROPS - Proper respect due. E.g. PROPS to Mandy, she passed her test. HMU - Hit me up. It’s a slang way of saying ‘Call me’. W/E - ‘Whatever!’ Total teen-speak! TYVM - Thank you very much. At least they have manners! KK - OK. This seems bizarre but apparently it’s faster to type. Speed is everything when you’re seventeen, unless you’re in the bathroom getting ready for a night out!
BRB - Be right back. Not sure from where, as they are all surgically attached to their phones. SUP - Wassup. I’m assured this is a friendly enquiry along the lines of ‘How are you doing. GR8 - Great. Presumably a suitable reply to SUP. OATUS - On a totally unrelated subject. There are many of these interjections in any TXT conversation with a teenage girl. O RLY - Oh really? Not the innocent expression it may seem. This is a negative, rather sarcastic response. My son uses this one a lot! RL - In real life. This one amuses me endlessly. It refers to life which happens away from the phone or computer. I’m often amazed they realise there is one!
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CODEWORD
1
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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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Autumn Colours
By Susan Brookes
Have you ever wondered why leaves change colour in Autumn? Here’s a simple explanation: Leaves convert carbon dioxide, water and sunlight into energy in a process called photosynthesis. The special ingredient for this is the chemical pigment chlorophyll, which gives leaves their bright green colour. But leaves also contain other pigments - carotene and xanthophylls, which are yellow and orange based. These help absorb sunlight, which they transfer to chlorophyll for photosynthesis, but, as Summer comes to an end, leaves can’t continue photosynthesising because of the dry air and lack of sunlight. They stop producing chlorophyll, and the yellow and orange pigments get a chance to shine. Red hues come from pigments called anthocyanins. Not all trees produce anthocyanins, and even those that do, need exactly the right conditions. Anthocyanins protect the leaves from excess sunlight and enable the trees to recover any last remaining nutrients before the leaves fall off. They give leaves bright red, purple and crimson colours. You’ll see more vibrant reds in years where there’s lots of sunlight and dry weather. You’ll also see more reds in nearfreezing weather when low nutrient levels, and other plant stressors also seem to trigger increased levels of anthocyanins. Arboretums are great places to view the best displays of fiery foliage: The National Arboretum at Westonbirt, Gloucestershire has a particularly grand display of Japanese Maples which are ablaze with colour from September to November. Batsford in
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Gloucestershire, Bodenham in Worcestershire, Thorp Perrow in North Yorkshire, and Winkworth in Surrey are also highly recommended. Several of the National Trust’s gardens also have great Autumn colours, including Sheffield Park, Stourhead, Arlington Court, Hidcote Manor, Anglesey Abbey, Calke Abbey and Clumber Park. There are also vibrant Autumn displays at many Forestry Commission sites. Mauldon Woods in Bedfordshire for example has over twenty different tree species, and at Bedgebury in Kent’s High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a walk down Dallimore Valley passes the liquid amber, tulip trees, ginkos, oaks, black birch and the nyssas, all of which were chosen for their spectacular autumn colour. Many of these attractions have special Autumn events including guided tours, special trails and explanatory talks. Outside the UK, the world renowned places to see amazing Autumn colours include: U.S.A. – Vermont, White Mountains in New Hampshire, Rocky Mountains in Colorado, Shenandoah Park in Virginia and Acadia National Park in Maine. China - Fragrant Hill in Beijing, The Yellow Mountains, Tauchuan Huangshan, Kanas Urumqui , Miyaluo Chengdu. Elsewhere - Kyoto in Japan, Alberta in Canada, the Loire Valley in France and Ahornboden in Austria. So whether you are in your back garden or half way across the world, enjoy nature’s magnificent Autumn colours.
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Oven Cleaning! - It’s a dirty job! Why do it yourself? We clean ovens using non-caustic, non-toxic products in your home. Ovens • Ranges • Hobs • Extractors Agas • Microwaves • Barbecues (May - Sept) Single Oven (all racks/pans inc)........................£35 Single Oven & Grill Oven (all racks/pans inc).....£45 Single Separate Grill Oven (racks/pans inc)......£15 Microwaves & Combination Ovens....................£20 Extractor Fan (free filter for next clean).............£12 Hob..................................................................£12 . . .
Agas and Ranges priced accordingly Oven Bulbs replaced for free in all jobs V.A.T free
Contact James on: 01767 260188 or Mobile: 07812 666081 email: ovenmen@live.co.uk You can also book at www.ovenmen.com
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
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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
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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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Be part of the challenge Stoptober is back. All over the country people will take the 28 day challenge to stop smoking during October. Last year over 160,000 people successfully quit smoking for Stoptober, thanks to the wide range of quitting support on offer. For more information search ‘Stoptober’ online or visit www.smokefree.nhs.uk/stoptober Alternatively, speak to your local stop smoking service or pharmacist.
219641_Stoptober_A4_Double_Sided_Poster_AW.indd 1
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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 18th September 2013 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Tel:
Address:
Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Mrs Cook from Godmanchester For last month’s solution please visit www.villagermag.com Across 1 Employed (4) 3 Loyal (8) 9 Whirlwind (7) 10 Big (5) 11 Ceremonial leader (5) 12 Save (6) 14 Twist together (6) 16 Thick oil (6) 19 Steps (6) 21 Friends (5) 24 Not dead (5) 25 Beginning (7) 26 In company (8) 27 Small insect (4) Down 1 Utmost (8) 2 Not late (5) 4 On a ship (6) 5 Relates (5) 6 List of ingredients (7) 7 Vegetable (4) 8 Round container (6) 13 Communications (8) 15 Zero (7) 17 Wealthier (6) 18 On land (6) 20 Distinguished (5) 22 Alliance (5) 23 Silly (4)
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KPC Property Services • • • • • •
FLOORED By Ian
Kitchens & Bathrooms Plumbing & Heating Painting & Decorating Carpentry Tiling & Flooring General Maintenance
Highly recommended, well established, professional services. Superior workmanship at a fair price
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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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How to make your child
a millionaire
Raising children costs a small fortune (it’s currently estimated at around £200,000), but if you’re clever, you could help them to become millionaires. Pensions for babies Stakeholders Probably the easiest type of pension to take out for your child is the Stakeholder pension. Anyone is allowed to set one up which means that a child’s legal guardian(s) can start a pension for newborns. You can pay in up to £2,880 each tax year, which is then topped up by a government taxback incentive to £3,600. You can stop and start contributions as you wish without being penalised and the minimum amount you can pay in at any time is £20. Anyone can add to it and if the full amount is paid each year, by the time the child is 55 they will have well over £700,000 and if they access the account at 70 they will have over £1.8 million. The money invested won’t be accessible until the child reaches 55 meaning they can’t blow it all when they hit 18. Once they start working, they can also contribute. They will receive tax benefits if their income is less than £130,000. You can find out more at Moneymagpie.com. There’s also a list of registered stakeholder pension scheme providers at www. thepensionsregulator.gov.uk. SiPPs You can also set up a Self-invested Personal Pension (SiPP) for your little one. Like a Stakeholder, they are open to anyone but the difference here is that you manage the money in it. So instead of leaving it to a pension fund to decide what to invest in, you choose the products yourself, whether it be shares, bonds, commercial property or other things. Junior ISAs ISAs are savings accounts which allow you to deposit a maximum of £3,600 a year completely tax-free, attracting interest as well. Your child has access to the money when they turn 18. Should you contribute the maximum amount each year, the fund could grow to a whopping £64,800 plus interest by the time they reach adulthood. You can choose either a cash ISA or a stocks and
shares one. As your child has a good few years for the fund to grow, you could start with a stocks and shares ISA and then gradually change into cash for the last 5 to hold onto gains. The only snag with a Junior ISA is that if you were eligible for a Child Trust Fund you can’t open a Junior ISA. A good place for further information is www.familyinvestments.co.uk . Teaching your child about money A sure-fire of making your child a millionaire, or at least comfortably off, is to teach her how to manage her money early on. Start as soon as they can toddle round the supermarket with you. Ask them to tell you the numbers on the price labels and then, later, run around finding the cheapest version of what you want to buy. Give them pocket money and set up a savings account, showing them how their money can grow over time. Go to pfeg.org for downloadable financial education guides that will help. Remember, it doesn’t matter how much money your child has later on, if she knows how to live below her means and save for her future she will never be poor. Fun fact: On average, parents are putting savings of £42.45 aside a month for each child.
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what’S ON?
IN OCTOBER
1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 October Bridge Club 7.30-9.30pm Roxton Village Hall Cost £3 Every Tuesday. Beginners welcome. Tel: 01767 448526 Web: www.greatbarfordbowlsclub.org.uk 2 October Flower Arranging Demonstration Doors open 6.30pm for 7.30pm Buckden Millennium Centre, Burberry Road, Buckden Tickets £9 includes glass of wine and light refreshments Brampton Flower Club invite guests to their annual Open Demonstration. Demonstrating this year will be Sarah Horne, an International Demonstrator, winner of the Interflora Florist of the Year Bridal Design 2011 and three times Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal winner, with ‘Never underestimate the Power of the Flower’. Trade stalls, sales table and raffle of flowers. Tickets are available by post from Mrs J. Burnley, 35 High Street, Brampton, Huntingdon PE28 4TG. Please make cheques payable to: ‘Brampton Flower Club’, and include a SAE or see website for downloadable ticket application form and more information. Sorry no tickets available on the door. Tel: Jacqui 01480 370996 for enquiries Web: www.bramptonflowerclub.com 2 October Little Paxton Gardening Club 8pm Little Paxton Village Hall Annual subscription £6. Meetings with speakers £1 and £2 for visitors Speaker will be Peter Jackson offering advice on how to grow your own fruit and veg. Suitable for all levels of expertise. Refreshments included. New members and visitors always welcome. 5 October 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
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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 5 October Hardy Plant Society Talk 2pm The Wetherley Centre, Biggleswade Small charge for visitors Cambs and Beds Hardy Plant Society present a talk by Donald Everitt on ‘plants worthy of being grown more often’. Donald is a lecturer and grower of plants. He was trained at RHS Wisley. He will bring plants and bulbs for sale at the meeting. All welcome - small charge applies. Tel: Winifred 01234 721720 Web: www.hpscambsandbeds.co.uk 6 October Celebration of Harvest 11am St James’ Church, Little Paxton A service for all. Gifts of dry goods/toiletries and cash welcome in aid of Jimmy’s Night Shelter in Cambridge. Refreshments available from 10.30 am. After the service, join us for a bring and share lunch. 7 & 19 October St Neots Astronomy Association 7.30pm The Visitors Centre, Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, Little Paxton Observing evenings. 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 9 October Kingfishers 7.30pm Brampton Memorial Hall, Thrapston Road, Brampton Suggested donation Members £2.00, Non-members £2.50 The fascinating lives of kingfishers will be the focus of an illustrated talk to be given to the Wildlife Trust, Huntingdonshire Local Group. The beautiful bank-nesting birds are well known to the public, but are seen only rarely. They are protected under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. We are delighted to welcome Jeff Harrison, who has been studying, monitoring and photographing Kingfishers at their nest sites for many years. Jeff is licensed by Natural England and the BTO and this has enabled him to get close enough to observe
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what’S ON? IN OCTOBER
those behaviours that remain a mystery to many of us. We are delighted that Jeff will unveil their secret lives tonight. Anyone interested in wildlife is most welcome to attend. Tel: Phil 01487 822835 Web: www.wildlifetrust-huntsareagroup.org.uk 10 October Hunts Art Group 7.30-9.30pm Members £6, Non-members £8.50 Ink and watercolour painting demonstration by Caroline Furlong, anyone interested in joining our art group is welcome to attend. Please book by telephone or email. Tel: 01480 468952 Email: huntsartgroup@aol.com 11 October Bedford Brass in concert 7.30 pm Little Paxton School Hall Tickets £7 including refreshments Available also from The Anchor, Little Paxton. Tickets: Jenny Gellatly 01480 219022 12 & 13 October Arts, Crafts, Food & Drink Fair 10am-4pm Wood Green Animal Shelter, Godmanchester Adults £3, Concessions £2.50, Accompanied children under 5 free Whatever the weather you can visit the indoor arena and sample and buy from a wide range of arts, crafts and gift stalls as well as food and drink. Web: www.oakleighfairs.co.uk 13 October Beacon Antiques Fair 10am-4.30pm The Sharnbrook Hotel, Sharnbrook Admission £3 This antiques fair offers a diverse range of quality antiques so whether you are a professional dealer, an avid collector or just looking for something special, this unique fair is the place to visit. Refreshments including tea, coffee, soft drinks and snacks served throughout the day. Tel: 01480 382432 or 07906 647346 14 & 28 October Line Dancing for Beginners 7-8pm Tilbrook Village Hall No partner necessary. Please wear flat/low heeled shoes (or cowboy boots). Tel: Pauline or Terry 01480 861767
16 October Researching Ancestors in British India 7.30-9pm Women’s Institute Centre, Waldon Road, Huntingdon Non-members welcome - £1 donation appreciated Huntingdonshire Family History Society talk by Penny Tipper on ‘Researching Ancestors in British India’. Web: www.huntsfhs.org.uk/ 18 October Man of Steel Doors open 7pm for 7.30pm Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Adults £4, Concessions £3, Children under 16 £2 Kimbolton Community Cinema. Licensed bar and refreshments. Tickets available from Dixie’s Deli, Watson’s or Bytes Café or on the door. Limited tickets so book early. Tel: 01480 860297 for further information 24 October 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 Climbers for all aspects with Nick Hamilton. 26 October Cambridgeshire Family History Society – Family History Fair 10am-4pm Girton Glebe Primary School, Girton, Cambridge Free admission. Lectures £2 per person. Free internet research room run by CFHS researchers. Free parking. 26 October Shepreth Village Hall Market 10am-12.30pm Lots of lovely craft stalls to give you ideas for early Christmas present shopping and the usual fresh, local produce from around the area. Tim and Lisa’s Basket and Apple juice gazebo will be outside at the opening to the hall welcoming you in! Refreshments and hot sausages in rolls by Shepreth W.I. Tel: Jane. 07554207580 Web: www.stallsinthevillagehall.co.uk 16 November Christmas Gifts and Craft Market 11am-3pm Shepreth Village Hall
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Classifieds
BOOK REVIEW
72198 chas crowe BCards
14/3/11
Clock Repair Specialist
BY Bruce Edwards
19:36
Page 1
H Visome its
The Perfume Garden Kate Lord Brown Corvus £14.99 p/b
LONGCASE CLOCK REPAIR SPECIALIST
This book should not be confused with another bearing a not dissimilar title from another era. If there’s a glimmer of recognition in your mind, that’s fine - for the Richard Burton version is mentioned - but here our author has penned a very different tale. This story hovers between the mid 1930’s Spain of the Civil War (remember the Capa photograph of the dying soldier?) and London and the modern Spain of the early 2000’s. There’s a fascinating glimpse into the worlds of the parfumerie and the chaotic era of Spain’s conflict (said to be still smouldering today). The immense strength of this story derives from the intermingled love-lives spanning the years. These wonderfully woven romances are not, however, as straight forward as they initially appear. Emma is a great girl - a well rounded character with a strength of purpose and an enviable attitude who - - - but no, I must resist the temptation to spoil the story with further compliments. Suffice to say she shrugs off the disaster of a loss from the fall of the Twin-Towers emphasised by her condition, to follow in the footsteps of her forebears. Freya is amongst them and carries her secret well amongst the shadows of the evils of those tragic days. Eventually Emma uncovers her true incredible identity from the past and though her rival in both love and the perfume business almost wrecks her plans, she begins to rebuild a live worth living.
Church End, Ravensden, Bedford Tel: 01234 771704 & 07976 876234 Email: chas.crowe@btinternet.com British Horological Institute Associate Member
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 Plumbing & Heating
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