Cambs sept 15

VILLAGER The

Issue 77 - September 2015

and Town

Life

LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS

Inside this issue Discover the Dangers of

Sitting Comfortably Win a Meal atfor Two Jordan’s Mill Win £25

in our Prize Crossword Bringing Local Business to Local People

20,000 copies delivered to Buckden, Brampton, Cambourne,

Godmanchester, The Hemingfords, Eaton Socon, Bourn, Grantchester and all surrounding villages every month

ur Yo EE FR1copy

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Contents Planning your Wedding

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Outdoor Swimming at St. Neots.......................................................4 The WI - As relevant Today as in 1915...............................................6 Buying a New Set of Wheels..........................................................10 Win a Meal for Two at Jordan’s Mill.................................................12 Planning Your Wedding..................................................................14 Tibet - On the World’s Highest Railway...........................................20 Don’t Let Migraines Get You Down.................................................22 Harvest Time..................................................................................25 Shades of Autumn..........................................................................26 Cambridge Digital Academy...........................................................29 What You Need to Know About Premium Bonds............................30 Separation or Divorce.....................................................................32 Sitting Comfortably?......................................................................34 Seasonal Delights...........................................................................36 Divorce Q&A...................................................................................39 Major Pension Change Opportunity...............................................40

VILLAGER The

Issue 77 - September 2015

and Town

Life

LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS

Inside this issue Discover the Dangers of

Sitting Comfortably Win a Meal atfor Two Jordan’s Mill Win £25

in our Prize Crossword Bringing Local Business to Local People

20,000 copies delivered to Buckden, Brampton, Cambourne,

Godmanchester, The Hemingfords, Eaton Socon, Bourn, Grantchester and all surrounding villages every month

ur Yo EE FR1copy

The Future is Important..................................................................41 Lovely Lawns..................................................................................43 Beer at Home.................................................................................47 Animal Queries...............................................................................49 Astronomy.....................................................................................50 Children’s Page...............................................................................53 BMW i8..........................................................................................55 Fun Quiz.........................................................................................56 A Stitch in Time While the Sun Shines............................................58 Puzzle Page....................................................................................60 What’s On.......................................................................................62 Russell Grant’s Horoscopes.............................................................65 Wordsearch....................................................................................69 Prize Crossword..............................................................................74 A Farm Holiday in East Devon.........................................................76 Book Review..................................................................................78

Astronomy

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20,000 copies delivered free of charge 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, Eaton Socon, Bourn, Grantchester, 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)

Editorial - Peter Ibbett, Anna Bradley-Dorman, Kate Duggan, Jonathan Vernon-Smith, Katerina Otter, Solange Hando, RSPCA, Center for Complementary Health, Debbie Singh-Bhatti, Leeds Day Solicitors, Alison Runham, Fiona McLeman, Tony Larkins, Veronica Leone, Pippa Greenwood, Ted Bruning, Kate McLelland, James Baggott, Katherine Sorrell, Tim Saunders, Russell Grant and Bruce Edwards Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Scott - 01767 261122 scott@villagermag.com

Publishers

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

Design and Artwork - Design 9 Tel 07762 969460

Disclaimer - All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however, Villager Publications Ltd can not take any responsibility for the Photography - famveldman content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any & Darren Harbar Photography statements given in the editorial. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher.

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History

By Peter Ibbett

Outdoor Swimming

Summer days in one part of St. Neots used to ring with the happy sound of swimmers in the outdoor pool on Huntingdon Road, who much appreciated the fun of open air swimming. New health regulations and increasing costs put paid to a much loved outdoor facility leaving the present fenced off green area for local officials to debate the merits of a succession of developers plans for the site. The holiday package pool under hot South European skies is the only outdoor swimming experience of many current inhabitants of St. Neots. This is in contrast to the mid-20th Century town council subsidised locals who had never made it past Clacton Pier, enjoying the gentle poolside breezes on an English summer day as one of the highlights of their year.

Out-door swimming has always been part of Great Ouse Valley life as Mr Tebbutt mentions in his 1978 book on St. Neots:- ‘The steep and muddy banks of the Great Ouse made access for swimming difficult in places. In 1895 the new St Neots Urban District Council remedied this by erecting a bathing shed at the north west corner of the Lammas Meadows. This place was known as ‘Top Boardings’ and probably there was already a wooden quay there, used for loading osiers. Although rather far from the town this place had the advantage of

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at St Neots

avoiding some of the pollution, and was also fairly private, a necessity in view of the rather surprising Victorian Habit of men bathing naked in the open.

Indeed in 1895 and 1896 letters appeared in the local press, signed “Tourist”, complaining of men swimming naked from the new sheds. A great innovation, no doubt due to demand, came in 1897, when times were set apart for the use of the sheds by women. Later, a bathing shed was put up at Eynesbury Coneygear and the one at ‘Top Boardings’ moved to the south west corner of Lammas Meadows and attendants were appointed for the summer. It is perhaps a sign of our times that due to ‘grandmotherly’ bureaucracy that these were later all done away with, on legal advice, as the U.D.C. might be held responsible if users were drowned or got disease while using the sheds. As a result swimming went on as before but without the convenience of sheds for changing or the safeguard of an attendant.’ If you have memories, pictures or even film of the old Open Air swimming Pool please take them to the museum (Locals have free entrance) or use the museum’s web site.

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History

The WI

Huntingdon & Peterborough Federation WI Members at the East of England Show during the 1970’s

As relevant today as in 1915 Throughout villages and towns in this area groups of women meet in local Women’s Institutes (WI) to make new friends, learn new skills and make a difference on matters that are important to them.

However, these small groups of women are part of a national organisation that is celebrating its centenary. The WI is the largest women’s group in the country with over 212,000 members - more than any of the three main political parties. Over the years the WI has managed to be both part of the establishment, and, at the same time, a deeply revolutionary organisation campaigning on issues from equal pay to climate change, from gaps in the midwifery workforce to the plight of the honey bee.

The WI has built the reputation of a practical and ambitious organisation that doesn’t shy away from tricky issues. Trying to condense the history of the

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By Anna Bradley-Dorman

WI is not easy but I hope I have managed to give an insight into this remarkable organisation.

The Early Years The WI originally started in Canada in the 19th century holding its first UK meeting on 16th September 1915, in Anglesey, Wales. It was and still is non-party-political, non-religious and open to women of all ages and classes - including royalty.

Canadian Madge Watt was appointed to set up WIs across the UK during the WWI to encourage countrywomen to get involved in growing and preserving food to help to increase the nation’s food supply. On October 16th 1917 the National Federation of Women’s Institutes (NFWI) was formed, when the annual subscription was set at two shillings giving everyone an equal say in this truly democratic organisation. Remember the WI was set up before women had the vote so then, as now, any member could stand for office or propose a resolution on which to campaign.

Many of the early members were some of the gutsiest women in the country, including academics, suffragettes, and social activists who realised that women working together were able to effect

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Campaigning for Equal pay in the 1940’s change. One of these women was Mrs Margaret Winteringham who was elected as Member of Parliament for Louth in 1921. She was the first English born female MP and only the second woman to take up her seat.

In 1919 ‘Home and Country’, the original monthly NFWI magazine, was first published. This was succeeded by ‘WI Life’ in 2007 which is delivered to every member as part of their subscription. This magazine continues to be the main communication between NFWI and its members alongside the organisations growing number of Facebook and Twitter followers.

Jam and Jerusalem During WWI the Board of Agriculture allocated sugar to WIs for fruit preserving for communal use.

Once again, in WWII, the NFWI was invited by the Ministry of Agriculture to organise a Co-operative Fruit Preservation Scheme. Between 1940 and 1945 more than 5,300 tons of fruit were preserved making use of nearly 12 million pounds of fruit, which might otherwise have been wasted.

Jerusalem was first sung at the Annual General Meeting in 1924, starting a tradition that continues to this day. Previously Jerusalem had been used by the National Union of Suffrage Societies in the 1918 celebrations of women’s enfranchisement and many of the leaders of the NFWI had also been part of the struggle to win the vote for women. By singing Jerusalem the WI acknowledged its links with the wider women’s movement and affirmed its commitment to improving the conditions of rural life.

The Denman Connection Mention the word Denman to WI members and their immediate thoughts will be of the WI College in Oxfordshire, the home of WI learning, where hundreds of different craft, cookery and lifestyle courses are run for members and non-members alike. The WI Cookery School is also based in the grounds and boasts a vast range of courses. Over a period of three years, in the 1940’s, every WI was invited to raise £10 and in 1946 Denman was bought. At this time of rationing curtains were made from bleached black-out curtains and Federations

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offered to equip the bedrooms. The college was named Denman College to honour Lady Denman who was the first National Chairman and, at the outbreak of the Second World War, she was also invited by the Minister of Agriculture to become the Director of the Women’s Land Army.

A Force to be Reckoned With The WI has a long history of campaigning, changing things for the better by exerting their individual and collective influence. It has brought a series of controversial issues into the public domain and forced changes in legislation and government policy.

For example in the early 1990s the NFWI was one of the founding members of the Fairtrade Foundation and in 1986 was one of the first organisations to talk about AIDS. In 1975 the WI began lobbying the government to set up breast screening clinics and as early as 1964 members were debating the dangers of smoking in public places. In 1954 a campaign led to the formation of the Keep Britain Tidy group and a resolution calling for ‘equal pay for equal work’ was passed in1943.

WI Leisure Activities – Competitive or Just for Fun? From competitions, writing, photography, cookery, gardening, floral art, craft and drama to walking, dancing and circus skills WI members have tried them all. Did you know the WI is credited with bringing Zumba to the UK? Craft is treasured by the WI as making an artefact tells and records stories as well as protecting heritage and traditional skills. Craft brings together communities, generations and cultures and it can also be the perfect medium to discuss issues that affect women. However, the most inspiring thing about craft is its democracy; everyone can make something.

So as you can see the WI has something for everyone so why not give it a go? Not all WIs are the same so if the first WI you visit doesn’t suit you try another one or even set up your own!

To find out more about the WI or find a WI near you visit www.thewi.org.uk

Members of Huntingdon & Peterborough Federation attending the Royal Garden Party held to celebrate the WI Centenary on 2nd June 2015

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Three Counties Radio

Buying a New

By Jonathan Vernon-Smith

Set of Wheels

Mobile phones, internet connections and cars are the three products I receive the most calls about on my consumer radio show. Today I’d like to help you avoid problems with the latter – cars! Buying a good, reliable car, rather than a nightmare vehicle that will eat into your wallet is a good way to start.

The first important thing you must understand is that unless you buy a car from a proper retailer, you have no comeback if the car develops a fault. The minute you drive a new car away from a private seller, you’re on your own if it breaks down. I therefore always suggest buying cars from good, reputable garages, and if you can stretch to it, main dealers. They, generally (and I use that word with caution - some are awful!), offer the best after sales service.

Secondly, you must do your research. Use the internet to find the most suitable car for you. Look at reliability scores, running costs and insurance. Don’t rush into purchasing a car you know nothing about on the forecourt, just because you think you’ll look good in it. Find something that’s the right size, has a good reputation for reliability and isn’t going to cost the earth to run.

The third thing you must do is to buy LOCALLY. Please don’t make the mistake that so many people make these days. They go to a search website, enter the car of their dreams, find that the only independent garage that has one available in the colour they like is 300 miles away and travel up by train to buy it. If you have a problem with that vehicle it will be YOUR responsibility to get it back to them to repair. That’s going to be a very expensive journey on a recovery vehicle all the way to Manchester! Use the internet to research garages and the people that run them.

Fourthly, if you don’t know anything about cars, then for goodness sake, take someone with you who does! A friendly mechanic is best. If you don’t know anyone who is an expert, then I would strongly advise having an independent check on the vehicle by an organisation such as the RAC. It may cost a couple of hundred quid, but it’s worth every penny if it prevents you from buying a complete lemon.

A car is normally the second most expensive thing you purchase after a house, I lose track of the number of people who spend £15,000+ on something they know and understand absolutely nothing about and then wonder why they have problems.

Please remember that when you find a car that you like, DO NOT PUT A DEPOSIT DOWN UNLESS YOU REALLY INTEND TO BUY IT. When you agree to pay a deposit, you normally enter into a legally binding contract to purchase the product. If you change your mind, you not only risk losing the deposit, you could be forced by the garage to take the car and pay the full amount owing on it. Salesmen and women often suggest the deposit in a relaxed manner. Don’t be fooled, when you change your mind, the relaxed manner will probably fly right out of the window.

Never pay the full amount requested for a vehicle. The garage will price a vehicle up with some room for negotiation. If you pay the price on the windscreen, you’re probably paying over the odds. Remember car salesmen and women are employed partly because of their ability to get as much money out of you as possible and make the company as much profit. Bear this in mind at all times when agreeing a price to pay. If you’re hopeless at doing a deal, then take someone with you who is good at it!

Finally, if you follow all of my advice and you STILL have a problem with it or the garage, then you can contact me at BBC Three Counties Radio and I’ll do my best to try and help you.

Jonathan Vernon-Smith not only offers you his consumer advice here but you can listen to The JVS Show tackling your consumer problems every weekday morning from 9am.

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N O I T I T E P M O C Not just a run of the Mill day out!

If you haven’t visited Jordans Mill in rural Bedfordshire before, you’re missing out on a hidden gem.

This unique food heritage attraction includes a lovingly transformed flour mill, stunning gardens, and a café with a terrace overlooking the river Ivel.

The Mill, home to the Jordans family for 150 years, provides a fascinating insight into the history of milling and food production in Bedfordshire. The friendly tour guides, who are all volunteers, bring history to life with tales of the Jordan family’s journey from farming and milling to cereals.

Visitors on the guided tours can also see parts of the machinery in operation to experience the sights and sounds of life in the mill.

The stunning Mill Gardens are unique food and flower gardens where crops, vegetables and fruit are grown in an ornamental setting alongside wild flowers and cultivated garden plants. The Gardens are sympathetic to Bedfordshire’s market gardening heritage growing rare varieties of salad, potatoes and onions.

Then you can relax in the Riverside Café, enjoying delicious food and drinks with the talented chefs

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creating restaurant-quality seasonal dishes and a tempting range of cakes and scones. All of the food is, where possible, locally sourced with some of the fruits and vegetables grown in the gardens used in dishes served in the café.

And to tempt you even more, this month in the Villager, we’re offering readers the chance to win a meal for two at Jordans Mill.

Simply answer the following question: on which river is Jordans Mill situated?

Send your answer with your name, address and telephone number to: Jordan’s Mill Competition, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Jordans Mill is open from 9am until 5pm Sunday-Wednesday and until 9pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Visit www.jordansmill.com or call 01767 603940.

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13

Weddings

By Katerina Otter

Planning your Wedding Planning a wedding should be one of the most exciting processes you will ever have. Yet many couples find it overwhelming and time consuming. By breaking it down into steps, it can be an enjoyable and manageable experience.

Get past the bewilderment stage. Some couples freeze while others rush to book the first wedding suppliers they see. Neither route is advisable but the following guide will point you in the right direction.

What kind of wedding do you want?

The venue search is the first step. You need to think about what’s important to you as a couple.

Do you want a casual or formal day, an intimate affair or lavish celebration, a ‘city chic’ wedding or a classic and elegant affair? Head online to gain inspiration from wedding blogs such as Rock My Wedding, B.LOVED and Love My Dress, or pick up a selection of bridal magazines.

Draw up a budget Before you commit to anything, make a list of your incomings and outgoings. This may not seem

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exciting but having a clear idea of your budget is an essential part of the wedding planning process. Without a budget, you could end up running out of funds before you’ve booked all the suppliers you need. So whether you’re a DIY couple on a £5,000 budget or a couple wanting the full fairy-tale works, it’s important to get this stage right. Personally I love a good spreadsheet!

It’s the quickest and simplest way to keep all your information together in an easy-to-scan format, as well as calculating your budget as you go.

The next step is to establish exactly who’s paying for your wedding. Before you accept any money, make sure you have an open and honest chat about what is expected of you. While some parents are happy to consider the money as a gift, others might think of it as a stake in your wedding and may have requests of their own! It is essential at this stage to make sure that everyone is on the same page from day one.

Work out how much you can put aside every month without compromising your quality of life.

Get quotes to allocate your budget – one of the hardest aspects of planning for your wedding because many couples don’t know how much things cost. Make sure you get at least a couple of quotes from each type of supplier and check whether or not they’ve included VAT or if there are any hidden extras that could drastically alter the price. Adding a contingency fund to your budget will ensure that if your wedding costs more than you thought, you have sufficient funds to cover this.

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MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS‌ From your very first visit to the end of your special day, we take pride in guiding you through the perfect wedding; unobtrusively efficient, always approachable, and entirely focused on making your dream a reality.

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Double check. Have you forgotten the essentials?

Are there any extra elements, suppliers etc. you’ve excluded?

Now you’ve chosen your suppliers and checked your budget, it’s time to put down some deposits and spend!

Work out numbers and choose a venue, date and time Draw up a rough guest list as numbers can rule out venues. To shortlist venues decide where, geographically, you would like to hold your wedding; type of ceremony (religious or civil); what season (high season – July/August – will come at a premium); what date you would like to marry on (venues book up in advance on average 14-18 months ahead and some only host weddings on certain days); and time so you can decide if you need a late licence.

List your venue requirements Are you happy to use in-house suppliers or do you want to bring in your own? Some venues have a preferred suppliers list ranging from caterers to entertainment. Do you want to bring your own alcohol? Check to see if the venue bar is in-house, external or whether they charge corkage. Do you want a pre-styled venue or help from the venue staff? While some venues are fully staffed, others are venue hire only, which means you’ll need to make all of your own arrangements and have people on site to set up on the day. Do you need accommodation on site or nearby? If the venue can’t accommodate everyone, they will

certainly be able to recommend local options for your guests. Do you want a marquee? Some venues have capacity for marquees and work with preferred suppliers, and some even have permanent marquees. Ensure it’s the style of marquee you want. From traditional pole style tents, through to yurts and tipis – there are lots of choices!

Once you know the answers to these questions, finding your perfect wedding venue will be that much easier. Coco Wedding Venues has a great list of questions and helpful tips to ask.

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17

WORDWHEEL

For children from 0 to 5 years Dance Classes • Music For Little People • Spanish Lessons • Monkeynastix • To find out more call us today

01480 810816 Buckden Day Nursery 16 Mill Road, Buckden Cambs. PE19 5SS e: info@buckden-day-nursery.co.uk w: www.buckden-day-nursery.co.uk

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Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.

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19

Travel

By Solange Hando

Tibet - On the world’s highest railway The Qinghai Express offers neither nostalgia nor five star luxury but it is the highest railway in the world, with stunning views of the Tibetan plateau.

There are a number of departure points in China, including the tourist hot spot of Xian where the Express sets off for Lhasa on a 34 hour breathtaking joFigures are staggering: a total of 681 bridges, 1,966 culverts plus countless tunnels, most amazing Fenghuoshan, at over 4,900 metres, the highest in the world on permafrost. The Tangulla pass marks the highest point along the line, 5,072 metres. But how do you breathe at such high altitude? No problem, the train is pressurised, just like an aircraft cabin, with individual oxygen outlets if you need a little extra. That means windows don’t open and on the rare stops along the route, you are only allowed out for a few minutes. Add an onboard clinic, and you can sit back and relax.

The journey begins through China, past mountains and gorges looming in the mist and ghost-like villages popping straight out of the earth. There are tunnels and the occasional landslide, cleared in minutes, and before you know it, it’s time for lunch: mysterious delicacies from the trolley or fullyblown chopstick treats from the dining car, with à la carte, waiter service and wine from the Great Wall of China. By late afternoon, the altitude reads 2,961 metres, in Mandarin, Tibetan and English.

The first snow-capped mountains appear in the distance and there are salt lakes and prayer flags which begin to feel like Tibet. Later, when everyone is asleep, cocooned in duvets, the train will pass the Kulun mountains where, hopefully, the earthquake monitors have done their job.

Dawn brings a thick layer of snow across the plateau where Himalayan antelopes and black hairy yaks look as frozen as the landscape. At the Tibetan border, a guard stands to attention but there’s no welcome sign and the train does not stop. Later, the snow recedes to reveal mineral-rich slopes, red, ochre and gold glistening above frozen rivers. Wild geese fly overhead, nomad tents flap in the wind and glinting electric pylons march across the wilderness on their way to Lhasa. Sometimes a dust storm sweeps across the land while dummy policemen keep watch along a road, deserted but for a single car approaching a Buddhist gate.

Here, on the Tibetan plateau, the railroad has been built on permafrost, and in the most vulnerable spots the track is carried on long curving viaducts high above the ground. At night, temperatures can drop to -30°C but inside the train, no one would know.

Breakfast, lunch, endless cups of tea, bags of raisins and crisps which pop like balloons, munching and drinking eventually give way to playing cards or walking up and down the corridors to chat or take pictures. There are few westerners about but plenty of locals, amused, intrigued, always friendly. There’s time to doze, read and gaze at the view.

Suddenly, a flutter of excitement passes through the train. There are willows and poplars along the river, green patches of land and, at last, the majestic triple-arched bridge which hails the entrance to Lhasa, Tibet’s capital. Back in Xian, the train set off at 6.44 on Wednesday; it is now Thursday, 16.44. On the roof of the world, the Qinghai Express is on time.

Train to Tibet, view from the window, 1st sign of life on the plateau

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BSc (Hons) MBACP, UKCP Reg.

Counselling Service Depressed? Anxious?

Relationship Issues?

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Have you considered Counselling sessions?

Based in Grafham village, I offer a professionally qualified Counselling Service to individuals and couples in a secure, confidential & non-judgemental atmosphere.

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For further details:

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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:

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Samantha Craig BA Hons, SAC Dip FHPT, SAC Dip FHPP, MRFHP

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21

Complementary Health

Don’t let migraines

September is migraine awareness month so, Jane Morris, Owner of the Centre for Complementary Health explains what a migraine is and shares the latest news.

Migraines are one of the most common forms of neurological disorder. They are classified under the heading of headaches, yet they are not just a simple headache. Ordinary headaches can often be treated by taking over the counter medication, rest, sensible eating and drinking.

With migraines come additional symptoms of temporary sensitivity to noise, light or even smell, a very debilitating throbbing headache along with nausea and or vomiting. In a small number of cases people suffering from migraines can even have also experience aura symptoms such as visual disturbances which may include blind spots, flashing lights, zigzag patterns or tingling, pins and needles and numbness of limbs. Migraines are more common in women and it is said that they affect approximately 10% of the population worldwide.

Migraines are complicated, and our understanding of what happens in a migraine has changed dramatically in the last decade. The original theory was that it was a problem affecting the blood vessels in the head, due to patients reporting a pulsation in the temples. Now researchers believe that it is a sensory perceptual disorder, because so many of the sensory systems—light, sound, smell, hearing—are altered. During an attack, patients have concentration impairments, appetite changes, mood changes, and sleeping is disturbed. In an acute attack people develop a heightened sensitive to certain stimuli. One way to view it is that migraine sufferers have a different threshold for sensory stimuli as their baseline level.

Medical treatments for migraine can include: • Triptan medicines such as sumatriptan (Imigran orZomig) which act on serotonin receptors.

Serotonin is thought to be the underlying neurotransmitter involved in migraines, based on a lower than normal level of serotonin (5-HT) which increases during attacks. It’s not entirely clear how triptans work, but they are able to abort attacks in some patients.

• There are also preventative medications such as Beta-blockers e.g. propranolol, amitriptyline (antidepressants)which are seen to be useful for migraines.

Over recent years genes related to migraines have been isolated that demonstrate an increased risk of migraines. There has been much talk of late about a new drug targets a substance called

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get you down

CGRP—calcitonin gene-related peptide—thought to be one of the peptides that’s released during an acute migraine attack. The new class of therapeutic agents appears to reduce elevated levels of the peptide known as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a key driver of migraine pain. Versions of anti-CGRP therapies are being tested, and it is believed that its drug, as a preventive treatment of high frequency episodic migraine, achieved a significant reduction in the number of headache hours after one week, with more than half of patients in each arm experiencing a 50% or greater reduction in headache frequency. However, the drugs need to be tested in large scale clinical trials, and receive approval, before patients can access them. Researcher’s estimate that this is at least 3 years away.

However, whilst this drug may be a fantastic treatment in the medium term, there are plenty of self- help things to try: • Identifying and avoiding triggers, this can be done by starting a ‘headache’ diary - make a note of when the pain started and how long it lasts. Note down any additional factors that seem important such as what has been drunk and eaten, the intake of medicines, daily activities, details about periods if you are a woman, and weather conditions.

• Avoid excessive use of alcohol and tobacco.

• Engage in correct posture while sitting and working. The type of chair you use is important. It should be one that maximises comfort and good posture and may need to be adjusted to suit your needs.

• Recognising the signs: a change in mood, tiredness, hyperactivity, food cravings • Perform relaxation techniques on a consistent basis.

• Get plenty of fresh air and exercise.

There is also a link with neck pain and migraines so help from osteopaths and physiotherapists might also be an option for some people. Similarly research suggests that acupuncture can give short term relief.

If you would like more information on migraines or to speak to someone to understand how treatment may help you please see www.centreforcomphealth. co.uk or call us on 01480 455221.

More info: Website: www.CentreForCompHealth.com Email: info@CentreForCompHealth.com Phone: 01480 455221

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Relax Holistic Therapy are now based in St Neots offering a high quality professional service, including a mobile service to the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire areas.

Here is a small selection of what we have to offer.

• Therapeutic Swedish Massage • Sports/Trigger Point Massage • Indian Head Massage Please call today or visit our website to view our full range of what we have to offer or make a booking.

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Professional new facilities in a friendly home environment Wendy Gilpin, Colmworth, Beds, MK44 2NA

07480 877800 Riverglade Hydrotherapy

15/06/2015 12:05 23

Acupuncture 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 20 minute consultation to discuss how acupuncture treatment can help you.

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Time of Year

Harvest Time The Importance of Bread We have celebrated a successful harvest since pagan times in Britain. Today events are commonly held in September or October on the Sunday when there is a full moon closest to the Autumn Equinox (September 23rd).

Prior to King Henry VIII’s break away from the Catholic Church however, celebrations took place on August 1st at the start of the Harvest season.

The day was known as Lammas or ‘loaf mass’, and marked the wheat harvest specifically with celebrations on later days to honour fruit crops. On Lammas it was customary for farmers to make a loaf from the new crop and take it to church.

Stories of tradition then vary, with some sources saying the blessed loaf would be used for communion during a special mass thanking God for the harvest. Others say the loaf was split into four pieces and placed in the corners of the barn to protect the grain that had been gathered.

OFFER 131x93 Frequently celebrations in schools and churches

include hymns such as We Plough the Fields And Scatter, and All Things Bright and Beautiful.

Decorations such as corn dollies and the display of home grown produce are set out. This format is thought to emanate from when the Revered Robert Hawker invited parishioners to harvest celebrations in Morwenstow in Cornwall in 1843.

Whether you celebrate formally or not it’s a great time of year to enjoy the foods of the season, especially bread.

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25

Health & Beauty

Shades of Autumn This issue we’re looking at make-up, including the key trends for autumn/winter.

As your tan fades, you may find that you want slightly more foundation. ’Contouring’ is the art of using different shades to add definition to your face. Lighter tones highlight areas and make them stand out slightly, while darker tones add shadow and depth. If you’ve been thinking of trying contouring, but are worried that it will take hours, or make you look a bit fake, read on for our cheat’s guide…

Start with an overall base that’s the same tone as your natural skin, before adding slightly darker shades under your cheekbones and along your jawline. Use a lighter shade on top of the cheekbones, under the eyes and between your eyebrows. And don’t forget to blend well! If you’re still not convinced, try searching online for video tutorials. MAC has some great ones on its website, for example. When it comes to the product itself, a cream tends to give a fresher appearance.

Iconic London’s Multi Use Cream Contour Palette, £32.99, is a good choice, as it has several easy-toapply shades in one kit, which also double-up as eyeshadows.

If you don’t fancy contouring, but do want to add a touch of colour to your cheeks, Colorescience Pressed Mineral Cheek Colore, £28, is a good choice. Available in five shades, including a natural looking coral, it’s easy to apply, blends well and lasts for ages. Colorescience is available from www.beauty-product-online.co.uk Want to master the perfect autumnal smokey eye?

Neal’s Yard Remedies tells us how*: • Apply a tawny brown shadow over the entire eyelid and up into the socket line using a medium eyeshadow brush. Apply to the lower lash line with a small eyeshadow brush.

• Using a medium brush, apply a dark hazelnut shade to the outer corner of the lid and blend into the crease of the socket line. Blend the colours using soft back and forth strokes. Apply dark brown mascara.

• Press a dark chocolate eyeliner into the eyelash roots, moving along the upper lash line. Go over this with a precise line, staying close to the

26

Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

lashes. Draw eyeliner along the lower lash line from the outer to the inner corner.

Statement lips don’t have to be red. We love Bobbi Brown’s new Lip Trio in Twilight Glow, £39 – the perfect shade for autumn. One of the key looks for this season is ‘polished’. Think sophisticated, ‘grown-up’ make-up. The Lip Trio is perfect for this, as it gives you perfectly defined lips, with just a hint of gloss.

Victoriana looks set to become another one of this season’s key looks. Forget soft romantic frills though; this is Victoriana with an edge. Think dark, gothic eroticism. If you don’t fancy going the whole shebang, you can dip your toe (or fingertip) in the water with a dark red or purple nail varnish.

We like Vamp by HJ Manicure, which is £9.50 and doesn’t contain the strong chemicals often found in nail polishes, such as formaldehyde and dibutyl phthalate.

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27

EBAY COLLECTIONS

28

Local & Reliable

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Local News

Hallneg Limited have moved to newly refurbished offices located at The Workstation, Bellingham House in the historic heart of St Neots market town. It is a vibrant and modern facility housed within a characterful Grade II Listed Building, and only moments from local conveniences.

This move has enabled them to establish Cambridge Digital Academy with a variety of

facilities including private meeting rooms, high speed internet, a hot-desking hub and open plan campus. They are offering FREE introductory courses providing real value to local businesses.

“Our move will allow Hallneg Limited to offer a wide variety of additional services to our clients.

We will be hosting training sessions which will be suitable for anyone wanting to harness their online presence and access free open source digital tools. There is a real buzz growing around St Neots business and we’re proud to be a part of it.”

Stephanie Hall, Managing Director.

To find out more, or book your FREE place on a course visit www.cambridgedigitaltraining.com or telephone 01223 911170

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29

Finance

What you need to know about

NS&I Premium Bonds Premium Bonds were first introduced in 1956 by Harold MacMillan as a way to reduce inflation, and they remain a popular savings choice today.

It is estimated that over £50 billion is held in the Premium Bond ‘pot,’ making them the largest savings product in the UK. Not a ‘standard’ savings option, bonds pay no interest and never expire. They can make you a millionaire though, if you are lucky enough to win one of the two £1 million draws each month.

How do they work?

Bonds up to the value of £50,000 can now be bought following a recent rise in the maximum limit.

At the other end of the scale you can purchase a single bond for £1, with all bonds being entered into a monthly prize draw.

Premium Bond numbers are picked at random

by ERNIE (Electronic Random Number Indicator Equipment), and you can check whether you’re a winner via the NS&I website from the third day of each month.

The government funds the prize money by calculating a rate of interest as if the bonds were ‘standard’ government bonds, rather than using money from the sale of new Premium Bonds. You can buy them from a post office, or directly from NS&I by phone or online.

How much can you win?

Winnings range from £25 to the £1 million jackpot, with prizes also including a percentage of £25,000, £50,000 and £100,000 wins each month. Returns average the equivalent of around 1.3% according to Moneywise, who also state that the chance of winning from a single bond are approximately 1 in 26,000.¹ You can be lucky though – the Guardian recently reported a £1 million jackpot winner who held just £400 worth of bonds. For those wanting a reliable income from savings, however, other products would be more suitable if they are willing to forego

30

Stages

instant access in favour of higher interest rates.

If you bought Premium Bonds in the dim and distant past, it might be worthwhile looking on the NS&I website where there’s an ‘unclaimed prizes’ finder.

Should you choose Premium Bonds over traditional savings accounts?

The problem with Premium Bonds is that because you are not guaranteed a return on your money, the investment could reduce in value over time due to inflation. Other savings accounts, even though their interest rate may be low, offset this issue a little.

If you are a higher rate tax payer, you may find investing in Premium Bonds useful if you have exhausted other tax-free options. People often buy bonds after inheriting money, or when they need to ‘store’ a lump sum temporarily – a deposit on a property or an inheritance, for example.

So in general terms, Premium Bonds should probably not be the first choice for savings – the main attraction for many is the potential chance of a big win.

Government’s wishes for Premium Bonds Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Harriet Baldwin, explained the government’s goals regarding Premium Bonds, “Our long-term plan is all about supporting savers and boosting working people’s financial security at all stages of life..... That’s why we have increased the amount people can invest in premium bonds for the second time in two years.”

Although not suitable for savers looking for a guaranteed regular income, Premium Bonds offer a way to boost a nest egg. They hold a special place in the nation’s heart – along with ERNIE of course. ¹http://www.moneywise.co.uk/banking-saving/savings-accounts-isas/ premium-bonds-what-you-need-to-know http://www.theguardian.com/money/2015/may/30/premium-bonds-safesavings-waste-time http://www.nsandi.com/ernie http://www.nsandi.com/do-i-have-any-unclaimed-prizes

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31

Leeds Day Solicitors

Separation or Divorce made easier Going through a separation or divorce can understandably be stressful and a difficult time for all involved. At Leeds Day, our highly experienced family law specialists are committed to focusing on our clients’ needs and not just the legal processes.

There are several ways to deal with the disputes that may arise following a divorce or separation.

We can advise and assist you as to which process is likely to be the most appropriate to your individual circumstances. These are as follows: 1. Negotiating between yourselves If there are minimal assets, this may be the most appropriate and certainly the most cost effective way of reaching agreement. The agreement would still need to be converted into a formal legal document which will only become legally binding once approved by a court within divorce proceedings. Even if you agree, it is important to take legal advice to make sure you understand the implications of any agreement reached.

2. Mediation This is where you work together in discussion with a family mediator to reach a mutual agreement.

Most people going through mediation find it helpful to take advice and support from a family lawyer during the process. Family lawyers can also make sure that agreements reached in family mediation are fair and reasonable. At Leeds Day, we are in the unique position where we can both assist separating couples at mediation via our experienced and highly regarded Lee Bailham, and assist individuals who are attending mediation with their partner and advise them on the merits of any settlement reached.

3. Collaborative Law This process lets you talk through the issues you need to solve, with you and your partner each having a specially trained collaborative family lawyer by your side at each meeting. Using collaborative law is a way of solving problems without having to go through court. To keep focused on this, everyone signs an agreement that commits each party to the process and if the process breaks down, your collaborative lawyer will not be able to represent you in court. Simon Thomas, a Partner at Leeds Day and the firm’s family team leader, is an experienced collaborative lawyer.

4. Lawyer negotiation Even if mediation or collaborative law is not for you, your family lawyers can negotiate an agreement on your behalf. Issues are often successfully resolved with the support and expertise of one of our family law specialists.

5. Going to Court There are rare occasions when this option becomes unavoidable. Our family lawyers are all highly skilled court advocates and will advise and assist you through the process. Even then, before a person can make an application to a court, they must normally attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM), where they are given information about family mediation.

To find out more, contact the family team at Leeds Day on 0844 567 2222 or send an email to family@leedsday.co.uk. Quote this article when making an appointment before the end of September 2015 and your first 30 minute consultation will be free of charge.

Our offices:

Huntingdon Godwin House, George Street, Huntingdon, PE29 3BD T: 01480 454301 32

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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33

Health

Sitting Comfortably?

It Could Be Killing You

Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk

Even if you exercise regularly, too much sitting could significantly shorten your life.

With employment and entertainment becoming ever more sedentary, sitting down for hours is the norm for many of us.

But in the last decade, research has increasingly proved that prolonged sitting is a health risk in itself, regardless of how much or how little exercise we do, and can cause irreversible damage.

Disturbing Research A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine in 2008 estimated that for every hour we sit watching TV after the age of 25, our life expectancy decreases by 21.8 minutes, while a 2012 study in the Lancet estimated that inactivity causes 9% of premature deaths. So how does sitting shorten life expectancy?

Recent studies showed a 147% increase in the incidence of cardiovascular events (incidents causing heart muscle damage) and a 112% increase in diabetes risk amongst those spending longest sitting, compared to those who sat least. Inactivity is known to increase breast and colon cancer risk too - and unsurprisingly, obesity. James Levine, Director of the Mayo Clinic-Arizona State University Obesity Solutions Initiative, has said he believes sitting is more dangerous than smoking. “We are sitting ourselves to death.”

We know prolonged inactivity results in decreased bone density, and evidence now shows it reduces the action of enzymes that maintain healthy cholesterol

34

and triglyceride levels. Some experts have suggested the effects of prolonged sitting may partially resemble those of zero gravity, causing the accelerated ageing, bone and muscle loss that occurs in astronauts.

Unfortunately, exercise sessions aren’t a “cure for too much sitting,” explains Professor Marc Hamilton, from the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, in Men’s Health.

“The average person could never do enough to counteract the effect of hours and hours of chair time.”

Tackling the Problem A moderately active lifestyle which includes housework, walking or gardening is ideal. Take regular active breaks from seated activities like reading and watching TV: mop the floor, take a quick walk, or do a few minutes of ‘step’ (an exercise step isn’t required. Stairs will do).

You could also consider: • Reducing your sitting time by standing on public transport, walking or biking to the station, or getting off the bus earlier.

• Standing or walking while on the phone.

• A standing desk, that converts between sitting and standing, or a unit that converts your normal desk to a standing one.

• A treadmill desk (or attach a bracket or stand to your treadmill).

• Sitting on a yoga ball; your core muscles will be used constantly to retain balance.

• Walking or organising a sporting activity at lunchtime.

• Active Sitting. It won’t replace standing or walking, but makes

sitting healthier. Try raising your heels up and down; contracting your stomach muscles; raising and lower your lower leg from knee height or whole leg from hip height; swivelling your office chair using just your hips; tensing, stretching and bending your arms; rolling your shoulders.

• Using the Pomodoro Technique, described here: http:// pomodorotechnique.com/. This time management technique inserts regular breaks – that’s the time to get active.

So next time you’re about to start something, stop. Does it have to be done sitting down? If not, then don’t sit! Bear in mind, though, that constant standing isn’t ideal either. Experts recommend aiming for a 50/50 split between sitting and activity.

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35

Food and Drink

Seasonal Delights

Potato Tortilla with Marinated Olives

Serves 4 Ready in 45 minutes, plus marinating time This Spanish baked omelette is great served warm as a speedy supper or is just as tasty served cold.

Perfect for a late summer picnic served with a bowl of garlicky marinated olives.

FOR THE MARINATED OLIVES 100ml olive oil ½ red chilli pepper, deseeded and very finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley 1 tsp lemon zest 150g Kalamata olives 150g large green olives FOR THE TORTILLA 450g potatoes, peeled and thickly sliced 6 large eggs 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed 10ml (2tsp) dried Italian mixed herbs 50g mature Cheddar cheese, grated Rocket leaves, to serve 1 To marinate the olives, heat the oil, chilli and garlic in a small pan until just warmed through. Stir in the parsley, lemon zest and

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olives and season with freshly ground black pepper. Transfer to a heatproof bowl and cover and leave to marinate in a cool place for a few hours or overnight.

2 To make the tortilla, preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas Mark 4. Grease a 19cm x 23cm shallow cake tin.

3 Cook the potatoes in a large pan of boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until almost tender. Drain well and arrange in 2-3 layers in the cake tin.

4 Beat together the eggs and garlic in a bowl then add the dried mixed herbs and two thirds of the grated cheese. Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper and pour the mixture over the layered potatoes.

5 Sprinkle over the rest of the cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch. Cool for 10 minutes then cut into wedges. Serve warm with rocket leaves and the marinated olives.

TIP - If serving the tortilla cold, allow to cool completely then cut into squares and wrap in greaseproof paper. It will keep in the fridge for 24 hours.

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Woburn Forest Holiday Village

Center Parcs is now recruiting for a number of key roles and have vacancies that fit around your lifestyle.

With flexible working hours available and competitive rates of pay plus superb benefits.

We are looking for enthusiastic team players to join us.

We have an amazing variety of roles, from jobs requiring no previous experience or training to ones that are highly qualified, we have opportunities to suit everyone.

For further details and to apply please visit:

at Center Parcs, we want our people to share in the success their hard work brings, enjoy a sense of wellbeing and a good lifestyle, and make the most of their time with us.

We offer unique benefits such as: • discounted Center Parcs breaks • day visitor passes • Free use of village facilities

www.centerparcs.co.uk

Center Parcs, Woburn Forest Holiday Village, Millbrook, bedford, MK45 2HZ

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37

THE COMPUTER MAN Local, Qualified & Experienced

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Whether your computer is not working at all or just needs a boost, we can help.

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Family Law

Divorce Q&A Clients often have the same anxieties about the divorce process, and come along to a first meeting with their lawyer armed with a bundle of questions that need answers. Here is a summary of those which readers may find useful.

Can we both file for divorce?

Only one spouse can petition for divorce. They are known as the Petitioner and the other spouse is the Respondent.

Can I cite irreconcilable differences? There is no such thing. The ground for divorce is ‘Irretrievable breakdown’.

How do I prove irretrievable breakdown?

By proving one of five facts - adultery, behaviour, 2 years separation with the Respondent’s consent, 5 years separation, or desertion for 2 years.

Can I get a quickie divorce?

There is no such thing. Divorces take about 3-4 months.

How long does it take?

If the divorce is not contested it will take 3-4 months.

How much will it cost?

Court fees are £410. Solicitors’ fees are extra. Some solicitors charge a fixed fee.

Do I have to go to court?

If the divorce is not contested, it is a paper exercise and no attendance at court is required.

Do I have to consult a lawyer?

No, it is possible to petition for divorce without legal representation.

Where do I get the forms?

These can be obtained online from the court service website or in person by attending at your local family court.

What if my spouse will not cooperate?

All steps should be taken to ensure the divorce is as amicable as possible. It is possible to progress a divorce even if the other spouse will not cooperate What should I do next?

If legal advice is required, consult www.resolution.org.uk to find a Resolution approved lawyer near you.

Fiona McLeman Tel: 07894 095775 www.fmfamilylaw.co.uk

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39

Beacon Wealth

Major Pension Change Opportunity The budget of 8th July 2015 changed the rules on how much can be paid into a pension. Prior to this date individuals could change a pension period to allow far more to be paid in; you will now not be able to do this, as all pensions from 8th July 2015 will have an assumed input end date of 5th April each year.

To compensate however, most individuals will have up to an additional ÂŁ40k allowance as a one off. If you want to maximise your contribution speak to your independent advisor as soon as possible, it may even be possible to use three allowances this tax year (just make sure they fully understand pensions).

On a separate note, I was concerned by what I saw at a recent Country Fayre. There was an advert and stall mentioning Pensions freedom and purporting to offer good fund growth at low to

40

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

moderate risk. The investments are unregulated with no guarantees of returning your money, either in a timely manner or at all, and you have no comeback.

Please be wary before making any investment and enquire as to whether there is cover from the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

Our Portfolio performance remains exceptional, but it is through daily tradable funds, without cost or penalty on withdrawal and we are FSCS protected. Good returns can be obtained with active management.

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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The Future is

Jeffrey Mills Veronica Leone Head of Will and Probate Department

Important We enter this world innocent and free of worry, perception, anticipation or expectation.

Through our informative years we learned the importance of education, although sometimes perhaps, a little too late to take advantage of it. As we grow older we meander through life, face trials and tribulations, and become burdened by the weight of responsibility to ourselves, partners and, if blessed, those of our offspring.

This is often when we look back, thinking how simple it all was, or could have been, and is also often said by those who are left with no, or an outdated Will from a loved one. Isn’t hindsight a wonderful thing?

Whilst it may not seem a nice thought initially, knowing what will happen puts your mind at rest, and helps ease the stress for those close to you at an already difficult time. Clearly there will be actions beyond your control that will cause a variance, be that, for example, your family and relationships, but this is why regular revision of your Will is crucial.

How many times have you been told, or even said to others, “you can do anything you put your mind to”. The reality of life’s experiences is that

sometimes you need to think ‘outside the box’ to achieve it, or receive a little help from someone close.

You may not be able to or want to help as much as you could now, but knowing that when you are gone you have secured someone else’s future and eradicated the stress that comes from not having a will, could be one of the best presents you leave.

It is a mistake to assume that your next of kin will inherit your estate (or an equal share) if you do not have a Will.

After all, it was Mary Kay Ash who said “there are three types of people in the world; those who make things happen, those who watch things happen and those who wondered what happened”.

For something as important as what you leave behind and how, it pays to use the skills of an experienced Solicitor.

You should always seek legal advice from a Solicitor. Jeffrey Mills Solicitors are a firm with family values and a fresh approach.

If you have a question, e-mail: v.leone@jefrreymills.co.uk

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Garden

By Pippa Greenwood

Lovely Lawns Almost every garden has a lawn, and there is a lot you can do to keep it in good condition. Don’t wait until spring but get to work now with some autumn lawn care to keep your lawn looking healthy and green.

Large weeds in small lawns are best removed by hand, perhaps using a sturdy old kitchen knife – perfect for removing dandelions, small clumps of daisies and other weeds missed by the mower.

You should also take a look at the level of moss in the lawn: when green and luxuriant it can look quite attractive, but once it dies out the lawn will look really awful. On the whole, moss in lawns is encouraged by compaction, poor drainage of the soil and lawn surface and by excessive shading, perhaps by nearby trees or herbaceous plants in adjacent borders. It is worth doing anything you can to alleviate these problems, and for shading you should prune back shrubs which overhang the lawn or have trees professionally crown thinned or lifted, so that more light gets through to the lawn.

Herbaceous plants are easily dealt with by using bamboo canes and string to ease them up and away from the grass.

Compaction is relatively easy to deal with, and in small areas where the problem is not too bad, you can use a normal garden fork. Drive this into the lawn every 10 – 15 cm (4 – 6 in) and ease it back and forth slightly to enlarge the holes created by the tines of the fork. This creates some drainage channels, which will also improve aeration. On very heavy sites or where compaction is bad, use a hollow tine aerator. These can be bought as attachments for some lawnmowers, or you can buy or hire a dedicated machine or piece of equipment. A hollow tine aerator removes cylinders of turf and the soil beneath, thus

producing a better effect than using a garden fork.

Once aerated, brush a sandy top dressing mixture into all the holes, using a mixture of sieved garden soil and horticultural sand, perhaps mixed with a small quantity of sieved leaf mould. The top dressing ensures that the holes are kept open to allow better drainage and aeration over a longer period.

Use a proprietary moss killer if moss is really out of control, applied exactly according to the manufacturer’s instructions; you should make sure that the moss is killed off completely before you attempt to rake it out. Raking out can be combined with scarifying, where you use a spring tined rake to aggressively rake the surface of the lawn, so that dead moss, thatch (the accumulated bits of dead grass and other lawn debris) and any other surface debris are removed. Once done, you will find that the lawn looks a lot worse than it did when you started, as it will look thinner and more moth-eaten. However, scarifying helps to ensure that the grasses receive plenty of air and allows for better re-growth; have faith, the situation will improve.

If you still have bare areas once you have improved the texture of the soil and fixed drainage problems, then re-seed or over-seed using a suitable grassseed mixture. To improve germination and speed of growth, pin a piece of horticultural fleece or Enviromesh over the newly sown area. This will help keep it warmer and prevent birds from stealing the grass seed.

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for vegetable plants, Nemaslug, mesh and fleece, Speed Hoes, Speed Weeders, SoftTie, pop-up crop covers , copper tape and lots more besides.

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43

Travel

Around Britain

UNESCO World Heritage Sites Bath Famous for being the site of the only naturally hot spring in the Britain, Bath was granted official city status by Elizabeth I in 1590 and went on to become a popular resort in the Georgian era, the period from which many of the city’s most beautiful buildings originate. The City of Bath was appointed a World Heritage Site in 1987.

Durham Situated on a bend of the river Wear, Durham Cathedral was built to accommodate the remains of St Cuthbert in the late 11th century. Perhaps the largest Norman structure still standing in Britain, together with nearby Durham Castle it was appointed a World Heritage Site in 1986.

The Giant’s Causeway, Co Antrim One of the UK’s four natural World Heritage Sites, The Giant’s Causeway was officially appointed in 1986. Comprising 40,000 interlocking columns

of basalt, formed by an ancient volcanic eruption millions of years ago, according to legend the causeway was built by the giant Finn McCool in an attempt to cross to Scotland.

Ironbridge Gorge, Shropshire One of the most famous symbols of the Industrial Revolution, Ironbridge Gorge in Shropshire was made a World Heritage Site in 1986. The bridge from which the gorge takes its name was completed in 1779, and is thought to be the first iron bridge anywhere in the world.

Saltaire, West Yorkshire Built by the industrialist Sir Titus Salt for his workforce in 1853, the Yorkshire village of Saltaire was appointed a World Heritage Site in 2001. An outstanding example of Victorian philanthropy, Salt built houses, schools, bathhouses and a hospital for his workers, as well as providing them with a library, a concert hall and a gymnasium.

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All Seasons

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Skye Landscapes Specialists in: Patio and driveway cleaning Hedge trimming Turfing, tree cutting Patios and block paving Fencing

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Beer at Home

September – does it still count as late summer, or is it autumn yet? It’s a half full-half empty question, really; but the blackberries should be well ripened, early apples are ready for picking, and the field boundaries are pocked with big white puffballs. To me, that’s autumn.

Autumn means rich food: the blast of cordite is sounding the pheasant’s death-knell, the stubble-fed pigeons are at their best, and the goose is ready from Michaelmas onward (why wait for Christmas?). And rich food calls for rich beer. Two, both from traditional English family breweries, spring instantly to mind.

Hook Norton Old Hooky (4.6% abv) has a richness and complexity that make it a great choice as an accompaniment to game. A deep copper colour, it

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has a biscuity aroma of quite startling intensity. This richness, though, is balanced by a fruity roundness and a tang reminiscent of old-fashioned marmalade; and the aftertaste, at first almost buttery, is similarly balanced by a bitter smack of hop.

Stronger than Old Hooky at 5.7% abv, and perhaps one to savour after a long bracing walk, is the rich, warming Badger Poacher’s Choice from Hall & Woodhouse.

A deep reddish-brown in colour its aroma is both sweet and sharp, because the flavourings are liquorice and damson.

And they work! The flavour is an alloy of luscious fruitiness and pear-drop acidity. There’s more balancing fruit and acidity in a lingering finish that’s short on traditional hop bitterness. So: rich and warming yet at the same time piquant and tangy – in short, a madeira of a beer.

FOR THE LIFE OF YOUR TREES.

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47

Pet-Positive Sue Tasker DipCABT

• One-to-one pet training/advice and behaviour consultations in the comfort of your own home. Dogs; cats; puppies; kittens; small furries.

• Puppy classes – small groups “Life Skills for Puppies” – the right start for the new member of your family.

• Advice clinic – contact Sue for more details • Dog life skills classes – aimed at young dogs and/or recently adopted dogs.

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Pets

Animal Queries

Dear RSPCA vet, We have just got two gorgeous black kittens – a brother (Stanley) and sister (Molly). I don’t like the idea of neutering them at all, so could I just have one neutered and not the other?

Vito, Oakley

Dear Vito, I’m afraid that both kittens will need to be neutered – but it’s really not something to worry about: in fact there are many advantages! Kittens and cats wander far from home so un-neutered cats have a huge impact on your entire neighbourhood.

To protect Molly from getting pregnant, she will need to go the vet to have a simple operation called spaying (also known as ‘fixing’, ‘neutering’ or ‘being done’).

I’m not sure how old she is now, but when Molly is about four months old, she will start to attract the attention of tomcats who will want to have sex with her.

This is why it’s important to have her spayed before she is four months old to protect her from

getting pregnant while she is still a kitten herself.

You may have heard that it’s good for cats to have a litter of kittens before they are spayed – but this isn’t true. Once she has been spayed Molly will be able to do all the things cats enjoy doing, like going outdoors, climbing trees and playing.

Stanley will also need to have a simple operation, called ‘the snip’. This can stop him from spraying in your house to mark his territory, which can be very smelly, and getting nasty injuries from fights.

He will also be less likely to wander off and get run over, as cats that are snipped tend to stay closer to home.

Having Stanley snipped will protect him from a nasty disease called FIV – which is the same as HIV in people, but for cats. It is spread through cat bites, often between males fighting over a female – but can’t be caught by people.

Neutering your beloved kittens really is straightforward and is the best option for everyone. Once an appointment has been made, you will need to drop them off at the vets, and pick them up again later that same day.

The operation is very simple and involves an anaesthetic. Once they are back at home, Stanley and Molly will need to stay in for a short time – your vet will advise – but they will soon be fit and well again.

Animal charities, such as the RSPCA Bedfordshire North branch, struggle to cope with the unmanageable number of cats and kittens being abandoned and neglected in Bedfordshire each year. By neutering Stanley and Molly – you will become part of the solution, not part of the problem – so thank you!

ANIMAL QUERIES is one of a series of articles brought to you by the RSPCA Bedfordshire North branch www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

49

Hobbies

Astronomy

A hobby that’s (literally) out of this world

By Kate McLelland

The spectacular appearance of the Perseid Shower, every year in high summer, is an event that demonstrates just how exciting watching the night sky can be.

The Perseid Shower is a stream of space dust and particles that flows behind the rather unromantically named Swift-Tuttle comet, forming a glittering procession of meteors. Make the effort to get up early to watch this natural light show and you’ll have a good introduction to astronomy.

Studying the stars and planets can be an incredibly rewarding hobby, whether you are a beginner, observing with the naked eye, or a tech-lover equipped with a substantial telescope and accessories such as a CCD (charge-coupled device) camera for capturing those night-sky panoramas.

First steps As an amateur astronomer you’ll need to become thoroughly familiar with the night sky: understanding how it changes, not just throughout the hours of a single night, but season by season, and even when viewed from different latitudes.

Most beginners will be tempted to buy a telescope, but remember if you live in an urban area where there is light pollution it’s unlikely you will get a clear view of the night sky, however powerful your telescope may be. The size and quality of the lens is important, but be warned: many of the instruments sold by non-specialist shops are simply not up to the job.

The views of space you can expect with a standard telescope may not match the stunning shots taken from space (without the blurring effect of the earth’s atmosphere), but with a little effort you should be able to see the rich detail on the Moon’s surface, the rings of Saturn and the planet Jupiter’s surface contours, together with its four larger moons. Once

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you become more familiar with the night sky you may also be able to locate and view distant galaxies and star clusters.

Learning about astronomy There are many online sources of information, books and software packages to help you get to grips with this vast subject: a list of publications is available from the Royal Astronomical Society’s website (www.ras.org.uk).

If you want to make a serious study of astronomy, there are a number of distance learning courses available. The Open University offers a certificate in “Astronomy and Planetary Science”, which provides a basic introduction that can be studied in separate modules: see the OU website at www.open.ac.uk for more information and costs. Alternatively Liverpool John Moores University offers short courses for under £200 (see www.astronomy.ac.uk).

Joining the astro community Astronomy is fun, but it can be even more enjoyable when you link up with others.

The British Astronomical Association has supported amateur astrologers since 1890 and on their website (www.britastro.org) you can chat to other enthusiasts via BAA’s online forums or find out about meetings and events taking place all over the country.

Astronomy Clubs UK (www.astronomyclubs.co.uk) is also a fantastic resource where you can search for a local club, find blogs and podcasts or search out places to visit.

Whether you’re interested in how the universe was formed, the movements of the planets or the prospect of meeting an alien life form, astronomy is a fascinating and far-ranging topic. It’s a hobby that’s literally out of this world, and there’s no better place to start than in your own (suitably dark) back yard.

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51

Guitar Lessons l Lessons – Owen Edwards Guitar: Loca With a Global Reputation!

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BMW i8 It looks like something from the set of Star Wars, drives like a supercar and costs £100,000. James Baggott finds out if the i8 is the car we’ve all been waiting for.

What is it?

It’s rare a genuine landmark car arrives on the scene, but BMW have pulled it off with the simply staggering i8. Not only does it look like something from a science fiction movie, it has the technology from one too – but the good news here is this car is very real indeed. This is the German firm’s stake in the ground in the electric car market and proves supercars don’t necessarily need V8s to stir the emotions.

Apparently.

What’s under the bonnet?

Ok, concentrate now, because this is a little bit more complicated than usual. The i8 features a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-pot engine that’s hidden behind the rear seats. Doesn’t sound very exciting, we agree, but there’s also a 129bhp electric motor which combines for an overall power output of 357bhp and 570Nm. That’s plenty of punch, enough to help it crack 60mph in 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 155mph.

But the really interesting thing is it does all that while returning an incredible 134.5mpg and emitting just 49g/km.

Motoring

By James Baggott

What’s the spec like?

Well, first up it’s worth noting this is a 2+2 so if you’ve got kids, or small adult friends, you can slot them in the back and take them along for the ride. There are also those awesome dihedral gullwing doors to marvel at every time you get in and out. Don’t expect to enter a petrol station and leave any time soon. Specification includes all the usual niceties you’d expect – such as Sat Nav, DAB radio, Bluetooth, heated seats and leather. Lovely.

What do the press think?

Auto Express praised it for its ‘stunning looks, low running costs and strong performance’, however they said the seats were cramped and the boot was small.

Autocar added: ‘BMW would have you believe that the new i8 is the sports car of the future - and it’s a believable claim.’

What’s it like to drive?

It’s like driving the future. From the moment you squeeze yourself through those funky doors across the wide carbon fibre sills to the minute you notice it glows blue inside at night, you feel like you’re starring in your very own Back to the Future movie. It makes an incredible noise as you power on, much of which is piped into the cabin via the speakers, but it’s still

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exciting nonetheless. It feels quick too. You sit low in the cabin, and with a rapid six-speed automatic gearbox that changes so fast you feel like it’s constantly accelerating, the sensations are heightened even more.

Our Verdict If you’re looking for something that will stand out from the crowd and is packed with clever technology, the BMW i8 really is the supercar for you. It’s great to drive, turns heads like few other machines on the road and offers amazing eco credentials to boot.

But at £100,000 it’s not cheap and we can’t help thinking a BMW M4 would offer just as many thrills in the driving department. But that’s not the point of the i8 - this car is about showcasing new technology and highlighting BMW’s electric car range, and it does that job very well indeed. And, if we’re honest, we’re very glad it’s here indeed.

The Knowledge Model: BMW i8 Price: £86,508 Engine: 1.5-litre, three-cylinder, turbocharged plus electric motor Power: 357bhp, 570Nm Max speed: 155mph 0-62mph: 4.4 seconds MPG: 134.5mpg (combined) Emissions: 49g/km CO2

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• Curtains • Upholstery Fabrics • Wallpapers • Curtain Poles • Lighting • Furniture • Design Advice Mobile Showroom to your door!

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Interiors

A Stitch in Time While the Sun Shines

By Katherine Sorrell

Maintaining the fabric of your house is a bit of a

chore - but keep on top of it and you will reap the rewards, says Katherine Sorrell Keeping a regular eye on your property and repairing it when necessary – especially before winter – is an insurance policy against major problems. It will make life easier in the long run, save money and help maintain the value of your home.

As Marianne Suhr, historic buildings surveyor and co-author of Old House Handbook, says: ‘It really is a stitch in time. Buildings can quickly decline if they are not maintained properly. A missing roof tile can lead to water ingress, then dry rot, death watch beetle and even structural collapse.’

Start by finding out what your home is made of and how it is built, then identify areas of concern. Work out how to tackle each area, and call in an expert if you lack the necessary equipment and skills.

Roofs Twice a year, use binoculars to check the condition of your roof and chimney. Look out for general damage, split lead work, loose mortar, missing, slipped or broken tiles or slates and anything else suspicious. From inside your loft, check for evidence of leaks, and examine supporting timbers for signs of deterioration. Brush moss growth off roofs, or fit copper growth inhibitors. Be very careful - it is often better to commission a professional to do roof work.

Rainwater goods Problems with gutters and downpipes cause damp patches, but are often easily remedied. Observe where water is going during heavy rainfall – is it flowing off the roof into the gutters, down the downpipes and into the drains? If not, perhaps leaves, moss or other debris have blocked your rainwater goods, or a joint has come apart, or water is gathering in one area. Patch or weld metal, replace damaged plastic sections and add extra brackets where there is sagging. Clear gutters, downpipes and drains regularly and redecorate metal rainwater goods when necessary.

Walls Damp in walls might be caused by the ground level outside being higher than inside. If so, dig back to the correct level, but if problems persist, dig down further and lay a gravel path to create breathing space for the wall. Remove and replace any damaged render, and re-point mortar if it has

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weathered or is very loose.

Although they are everyone’s biggest fear, cracks in walls can be caused by many things – but most are nothing to worry about. When you spot a crack, mark the end of it with a pencil or take a photo and note the date, so you can keep track of it. The Building Research Establishment suggests that cracks less than 5mm wide that do not grow any larger, will generally not affect structural integrity and can simply be redecorated. Contact a structural engineer if you have concerns.

Doors and windows Remove flaking paint from timber doors and windows and redecorate once the wood has dried out. If there is rot, fill carefully or cut out the section and replace. Overhaul sash windows, by re-aligning, replacing cords and adjusting the weights; add brushes so they are soundproof and don’t rattle.

Rusty metal windows should be cleaned, repaired and re-squared. Plane and/or sand sticking wooden doors and windows, and check that locks and hinges are doing their job properly. Oil them every now and then to keep them in tip top condition.

RICHARD KENYON MASTER THATCHER

Of Bluntisham, Cambridge

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08/05/2015 16:12

New Decorations Interior and Exterior Painting Wallpapering

Mark Newman

Painting & Decorating m.a.newman@virgin.net

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ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Suduko

Hard Suduko

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 puzzles.

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n O s ’ t Wha In September

Deadline for What’s On entries is the 12th of the previous month.

1 September Pond Dipping & Minibeast Hunting 11am-3pm £1 per child Hinchingbrooke Country Park Join Rangers and volunteers to see what little creatures are living in the pond and the meadow. Full equipment provided. Children must be accompanied. Tel: 01480 388666 2 September Little Paxton Gardening Club 8pm Little Paxton Village Hall Members £1, Guests £2 Sue Stephenson will talk about Wild Flowers, Meadows and Hardy plants. Refreshments provided. All welcome - please come along.

3 September Ouse Washes People and Places 1.30-3pm Huntingdon Library Free admission Mike Petty explores the people and communities who live alongside the Old and New Bedford Rivers. Places are limited; please see library staff or call to reserve a free ticket.

Tel: 0345 045 5225 3, 10, 17 & 24 September Bingo Doors open 7.30pm, Eyes down 8pm Little Paxton Village Hall Every Thursday night. Raffle and refreshments at interval. Sorry only 18+ can play.

Tel: Eddie 01480 475265 for more information 4-6 September Eleventh Annual Beer and Cider Festival Fri 6-11pm, Sat noon-11pm, Sun noon-10.30pm Toft People’s Hall Free entry Toft Social Club. Only £2.40 pint! Thirteen real ales; mostly from brewers in a 25 mile radius, and three ‘real’ local ciders. Gluten free beer and food available. Live music Saturday and Sunday evenings. Tel: 01223 263359 Web: www.toftsocialclub.org.uk

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4, 11, 18 & 25 September Tai Chi 4-5pm Wimpole Hall £6 per session Every Friday from 6 March.

Tel: Mike Tabrett 01223 503390 to book Email: mike@gret-heron.com 5 September Art & Craft Fair 9.30am-4pm Free Church, St Ives Free admission Handmade art and craft stalls and tombola.

5 September Keysoe Village Show Entries open to all. Schedules with entry forms, are now available from various outlets in the vicinity of Keysoe or telephone 01234 378878 for more information.

5 September The Alabama Hayriders 12pm The Chequers, Wrestlingworth Wrestlingworth Goodwill Day to raise money for local causes. Come and listen to the reunited legendary swing band of the 60s and 70s. Tel: 01462 701779 for further details 5 & 6 September Cambridgeshire Antiques Fair Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm Wood Green Animal Shelter, Godmanchester Online Adults & Concessions £4, On the door Adults & Concessions £5, Under 16 free Around 200 stands, the fair has earned the enviable reputation for being one of the largest events of its type in the region, with an army of regular visitors frequenting the fair. A wide range of antiques and collectables available.

5-18 September Big Autumn Book Sale Huntingdon Library Hundreds of ex-library and second hand books for sale. Tel: 0345 045 5225

5, 12, 19 & 26 September Parkrun 9am Wimpole Estate Weekly free 5k timed run.

Web: parkrun.org.uk/wimpoleestate 5, 12, 19 & 26 September Outdoors Yoga 9am Wimpole Estate £8 Tel: Rebecca Agouropoulos 07740 067186 Email: becxster79@hotmail.com 6 September Walking with Comberton Ramblers Walking is an excellent form of exercise as well as making new friends. Cambridgeshire is an ideal area for walking with relatively few hills.

Comberton Ramblers walk Sunday mornings – between 5-6.5 miles. New walkers are welcome to join us with up to 2 free walks, and if you enjoy our walks we request that you become a member. Autumn 2015 walk programme starts on 6 September.

Tel: Stella: 01954 210049 Email stella.ramblers@hotmail.com Web: www.combertonramblers.org.uk 7, 14, 21 & 28 September Comrades Chess Club 7.30pm Comrades Club, Godmanchester Keep your mind active and play chess. Over 18s only as it’s a licensed premises.

Every Monday except Bank Holidays.

7, 14, 21 & 28 September Scottish Country Dancing 8-10pm Queen Elizabeth School, Godmanchester Huntingdon & District Caledonian Society weekly Scottish Country Dancing for fun, friendship and fitness. You don’t have to be Scottish and you don’t need a partner as we take turns to dance with each other. May-Sept is at Queen Elizabeth Hall, Godmanchester and Sept-May is at Little Stukeley Village Hall.

Tel: Mrs Pat Crowe 01480 453774 email: pat@patcrowe.plus.com Tel: Mr Hedley Goodman 01733 350185 hedley@goodman2.plus.com

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n O s ’ t Wha In September 9 September Pat’s Pole to Pole 7.30pm Brampton Memorial Centre, Thrapston Road, Brampton Admission £2.50, Accompanied children free An illustrated talk entitled ‘Pat’s Pole to Pole’ by Pat Doody, who is Chairman of the Huntingdonshire Local Group. Pat has a particular interest in coastal ecology and is also an accomplished photographer. He has recently been on an epic trip to Antarctica, returning via many of the Atlantic Islands. Pat will tell us about all the wonderful wildlife he has seen on this trip and also on a previous trip to Svalbard. Tel: Tim 01480 457795 9 September Flower arranging classes for Beginners 1-3pm Tesco Community Space Fortnightly class. Tel: Lyn 01480 731009 9 September Flower arranging classes for Beginners 7.30-9.30pm Methodist Church, Berkley Street, Eynesbury Fortnightly class. Tel: Lyn 01480 731009 10 September Kimbolton Medical Centre Patients Participation Group 7pm The forum will be focusing on Mental Health and Wellbeing.

13 September Cambridgeshire Baby & Toddler Show 10am-4pm, last entry 3pm Wood Green Animal Shelter, Godmanchester Early bird tickets £2.50, On the door £3.50, Under 16 free Over 100 businesses running stalls and offering free activities covering every aspect of pregnancy to pre-school. Goodie bags for the first 500 advance ticket holders (one per family). Please note only cash accepted on the door. Web: www.yourlocalbabyshow.co.uk/

16 September Carers Coffee Club 2.30-4pm The White Horse, High Street, Tilbrook Are you caring for a loved one with a memory loss? Then come along and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee whilst chatting with others in a similar situation. Our informal group meets on every third Wednesday of the month. No need to book, just turn up. Hope to see you there.

Tel: Neil Silby 07889 319888 for further details Email: kimpigfarmer@tiscali.co.uk 18 September A Royal Affair Doors open 7.30pm, film starts 8pm Screen St Ives, Corn Exchange, St Ives Directed by Nikolaj Arcel (Denmark), 2012.

135mins Cert 15. An illicit love affair between a queen and her physician, an increasingly unstable king and a burgeoning revolution in 18th century Denmark make this an immensely gripping film. The sumptuous costumes, real-life characters and palatial settings are a joy to behold as the turbulent story unfolds.

Web: www.screenstives.org.uk 19 September Huntingdonshire Music School Big Band 1940s Concert 11am-11.45am, 12.30-1.15pm Huntingdon Library Free admission Everybody welcome. Please come along and join in the fun! Tel: 0345 045 5225 19 September “Taste & See Festival” 12-5pm St James’ Church, Little Paxton Free admission Come along to this event celebrating parish life and find out what Little Paxton Church can offer you.

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20 September Family & Animal Fun Day 10am-4pm Wood Green Animal Shelter, Godmanchester Wood Green Annual Animal Fun Day inviting all families, as well as those who have rehomed an animal from them, to join the activities at the Godmanchester centre. Highlights will include a Land Train, inflatables, appearances from our Doc McStuffin look-a-like, farmer’s market and craft fair. Tel: 0844 248 8181 Email: info@woodgreen.org.uk Web: www.woodgreen.org.uk 23 September-2 December The Self-Portrait 10-11.30pm Reading Room, High Street, Hemingford Grey Course fee £48.00 Hemingfords’ WEA Course. The Self-Portrait: a study of the many types of self-portrait and what they mean to us, artists’ paintings, personal diaries, fictional autobiography, poetry and houses as self-portraits. Tutor is Fiona Lucraft. Ten one and a half hour sessions.

Tel: Maureen Rolfe 01480 463493 24 September St Neots & District Gardening Club 8pm St Mary’s Church Hall, Brook Street, St Neots Members £2, Non-members £2.50 AGM and suggestions of topics for open meetings and places to visit for next year.

Competition is One Vase of Cut Flowers.

28 September The Friendly Invasion - the USAAF in East Anglia 1942-1945 2-4pm Reading Room, High Street, Hemingford Grey Free admission. Hemingfords’ WEA inaugural lecture, open to all. The arrival of the first US airmen in the UK following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour, their cultural impact and the legacy of their presence. Speaker will be Ian McLachlan, aviation historian.

Tel: John Rolfe 01480 463493

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NICEIC Approved Domestic Installer Safety inspections Fuse board upgrades Replacements lights Additional power points Extensions For your free quote contact Rob Ambrose on 07553 922005 Or e-mail info@paxtonelectricaltesting.co.uk

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Russell Grant’s

Horoscopes

AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th Finances will be tight at the beginning of September, so budget accordingly. Be realistic about what you want and need. Fortunately, your best friend or lover will get an unexpected opportunity to earn big money on the 8th. The Solar Eclipse on the 13th is ideal for an intimate encounter. If you’re in love, plan a surprise getaway for your amour. Are you single? You will soon embark on a relationship with someone who exudes excitement and mystery. Be selective about the company you keep during the second half of September. You don’t want a trouble maker to compromise your professional reputation. A very attractive newcomer will flirt like mad with you on the 23rd. It’s nice to know your sex appeal continues to work at full power. A Lunar Eclipse on the 28th prompts you to end your association with an organisation. Now the leadership of this group has changed, you’re no longer interested in belonging to it.

PISCES February 20th - March 20th Be realistic about your expectations of a romantic partner in early September. Becoming a little more independent will take a whole load of pressure off your partner. Are you single? A friendship could turn into a passionate affair. A Solar Eclipse on the 13th brings surprising news about an engagement, marriage, or business alliance. This partnership will benefit you in unexpected ways. Beware of promising more than you can deliver on the 17th, or your professional reputation will suffer. Your sensual side will be very strong during the second half of September. This is a great time to indulge your love of good food, tactile fabrics, heady aromas, beautiful music and vibrant colours. Practice moderation at a party or professional gathering on the 26th. Practicing moderation will protect your reputation. The Lunar Eclipse marks the end of a source of income, forcing you to make last minute adjustments to your budget. You might have to cancel an expensive order.

ARIES March 21st - April 20th You need to be a lot more realistic about work deadlines at the beginning of September. A seemingly simple job will take much longer than you think. Fortunately, you will get plenty of help and inspiration from a creative colleague. If you hit a snag, ask for their assistance. A Solar Eclipse on the 13th helps you find relief for a nagging health problem. By changing the way you eat and exercise, you’ll feel years younger. Listen to a medical professional who has years of experience. It will be necessary to accommodate a business or romantic partner’s ever changing schedule at mid-month. Be as flexible as you can and try not to get frustrated with last minute changes. This whole disrupting scenario will soon pass. A Lunar Eclipse on the 28th will tempt you to radically alter your appearance. Don’t, or you will be sorry. This is not the time to go for a radical makeover or extreme image update.

TAURUS April 21st - May 21st Building a nest with your amour will be your first priority in early September. The two of you may decide to cohabitate, get married, or move to a bigger place. It will be easy to find exactly the space you need to thrive as a couple. A Solar Eclipse on the 13th is perfect for launching a creative project, showing off your art work, or taking a romantic risk. Your partner’s resources won’t be as plentiful during the second half of the month and you’ll be expected to pick up the slack. Put your heads together to devise a budget that reflects both of your financial priorities. A Lunar Eclipse on the 28th forces you to capitulate to a big bureaucracy. You won’t be able to fight the authorities at this time. Giving in gracefully will save time, money and aggravation. Don’t let pride stop you putting an end to this nightmarish situation.

GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st Money for a house payment or tuition will arrive in early September. Resist the urge to squander these resources on something that will afford short term pleasure. A Solar Eclipse on the 13th is perfect for finding a beautiful living arrangement. If you want to buy a place, explore an area that is known for its natural beauty. You’ll have to be extremely practical regarding work at midmonth. There won’t be much money in the budget for extravagant projects. You’ll also have to put in longer hours at the office. Your relationship with your best friend, lover, or business partner will take on a serious tone during the second half of the month. Don’t be surprised if you have to take over some of your friend’s responsibilities. A Lunar Eclipse on the 28th marks the sudden end of a friendship or group association. You simply can’t afford to connect yourself with people who are involved in under the counter activities.

CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd The opening days of September will be confusing. You aren’t sure of where you should be heading. It feels like you’re trying to find your way out of a blender. Instead of forcing yourself to make a decision, take a few deep breaths and let events unfold on their own. A Solar Eclipse on the 13th will bring enlightening information. You may decide to take a class, move to a nearby town, or sign a contract with a powerful executive.

Work will become more stable during the second half of the month. It will be much easier to follow a predictable schedule. A Lunar Eclipse on the 28th brings an abrupt end to a public role. Although you will be sad to lose this position, this turn of events is a blessing in disguise.

Spend the lion’s share of your time on domestic pursuits as September turns to October.

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Russell Grant’s

Horoscopes

LEO July 24th - August 23rd It’s important to be realistic about finances in the early days of September. Buying everyone lunch and covering friends’ expenses will put you in jeopardy. Keep careful track of everything you spend.

Putting yourself on a budget is strongly advised. Good news about a fitness regime will arrive on or around the 8th. It’s a relief to know you can move forward with plans. A Solar Eclipse on the 13th attracts a new source of income. Put this extra money in a savings, retirement, or college fund. The second half of September will prove quite busy. Running errands, answering messages and filing paperwork will take up a great deal of time. Fortunately, you’re up for the challenge. A Lunar Eclipse on the 28th forces you to part ways with someone who has offensive beliefs. You can’t afford to be connected with such a troubled individual. Take steps to protect your reputation as October approaches.

VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd Things will be a little tense between you and a lover at the beginning of September. Try a little tenderness.

Try not to get too upset with your partner’s dreamy ways.

Not everyone can be as practical as you. The two of you are a great team because you balance each other. Remember this the next time you get upset. A Solar Eclipse on the 13th is ideal for branching into unfamiliar territory. Whether you get a new job, change your look, or take up a creative hobby, you will get an enthusiastic reception. Keep careful track of your receipts during the second half of the month, as you will have to return some defective merchandise. A Lunar Eclipse on the 28th brings an abrupt end to a source of unearned income. This will be a secret relief, as it allows you to break free of an oppressive relative or business partner.

LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd It will be virtually impossible to get help from colleagues in the beginning of September. Instead of beating your head against a brick wall, just resign yourself to doing all the labour yourself. Make sure your boss knows about the situation, so they will be apprised of how valuable you are to the organisation. A Solar Eclipse on the 13th will allow you strike an arrangement where you can work from home. If you already have your own business, you may decide to move to a more central location or hire an assistant. Consider hiring an older professional who won’t require a lot of supervision. Your amour will have a delightful surprise in the second half of September.

You might go away on holiday quite suddenly. A Lunar Eclipse on the 28th forces you to let go of some unrealistic expectations about your best friend. You either need to break up or make up.

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SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd You’ll be able to negotiate a much better deal than you are initially offered in early September.

Don’t take ‘no’ for an answer during this fateful time. Resist the urge to tell a secret on the 9th, or you will have serious problems with a relative. A Solar Eclipse on the 13th puts you in contact with some influential executives. Be sure to have a supply of business cards on hand, as these bigwigs will have a beneficial effect on your career. You’ll have fewer personal responsibilities in the second half of September, which comes as a relief. Take this opportunity to schedule a short break. It will be easier to get people to return your phone calls on the 25th, thanks to bureaucratic restraints being lifted. A Lunar Eclipse on the 28th brings a health matter to your attention. You’ll no longer be able to eat certain foods or engage in certain kinds of exercise.

SAGITTARIUS November 23rd - December 21st You’ll be asked to take the helm of an important group in the beginning of September. If you manage this project well, you will be given even better assignments later on. A flirtatious conversation on the 8th gives you a sexy glow. It’s nice to know you have the power to melt hearts and turn heads. A Solar Eclipse on the 13th results in a fantastic job offer. Not only will this position increase your prestige, but it will also pay extremely well.

Be realistic about how this new job will affect your home life, especially when you discuss the details with family on the 17th. Your personal responsibilities will dramatically increase during the second half of September. Prepare to spend more time at the office. A Lunar Eclipse on the 28th forces you to take a more realistic approach to a budding romance. It’s important for you to have an intellectual rapport with the one you love.

CAPRICORN December 22nd - January 20th Your willpower is extremely strong in early September. Take this opportunity to break a bad habit or establish a healthy one. You definitely don’t have to justify your new way of life to an inquisitive colleague. You don’t have to defend yourself to relative strangers. A Solar Eclipse on the 13th is perfect for scheduling an overseas trip. Visiting an ancient city will uplift and inspire you. Working in solitude proves enjoyable during the second half of September. It’s easier to focus on your duties without constant interruptions. You’ll be able to assert your authority more effectively on the 25th, when a chaotic situation demands your attention. People who used to challenge your assertions will gladly take direction from you when panic sets in. A Lunar Eclipse on the 28th marks the end of an emotional domestic drama. At long last, you’ll be able to retain control of your surroundings. If this means moving to a new place, so be it.

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LESTER O’DRISCOLL CARPENTRY Plumbing & Heating Specialists

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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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Augusts Crossword, Codeword and Suduko Solutions Last Month’s Crossword Winner Eve Thompson from Brampton

Easy

Hard

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The Villager Prize Crossword

Prize

ÂŁ25

Across 1 Look sulky (4) 3 Trader (8) 9 Saved (7) 10 Tacks (5) 11 Concerns numbers (12) 14 Not working (3) 16 One hundred centimetres (5) 17 Glimpse (3) 18 Recognition (12) 21 Solitary (5) 22 Alleviate (7) 23 Poured onto salad (8) 24 In addition (4) 1 Found in Egypt (8) 2 Distressed (5) 4 Finish (3) 5 Substantial (12)

Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this page and send to the address below before

18th September 2015 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

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Down

6 E.g. dogs and cats (7) 7 Throw (4) 8 Self-service stores (12) 12 Loft (5) 13 Twists and turns (8) 15 Condemn (7) 19 Perfect (5) 20 Hairless (4) 22 Move quickly (3)

Name: Tel: Address:

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Welcome

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Also at: Season’s Garden Centre Wilstead (main Road - A6) Bedford Beds MK45 3HU Telephone 01234 740011 Open Mon - Sat 10am to 4pm Sun 11am to 4pm

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Travel

A Farm Holiday in East Devon Hawley Farm in Dalwood is part of the thriving agricultural community in east Devon. Graham and Pamela Perry arrived in 1984 as tenants and then took over the 176-acre farm, merging it with its neighbour that Graham's family had worked since the 1890s.

Around 120 cattle, including Holstein Fresians, are still milked twice a day. We enjoy a tour where Harriett (4) helps connect a cow up to the milking equipment. The farm sells its milk to Wiseman's Dairies which collects it every other day to be pasteurised.

Three calves are born during our stay. Farmers have to be on hand 24 hours a day, 365 days a year which is why a family concern is important. It looks an idyllic existence but today's farmers have to be very business savvy.

Graham, Pamela and their son Winston are all passionate about farming tradition. When the blackthorn blossom disappears for example, Pamela knows it is time to sheer the sheep. The wool is used for many things including insulation and soundproofing. During our stay, 70 lambs are prepared for sale. “Our lamb can be purchased in the local Tesco� says Graham.

Five years ago the family converted their Grade II listed stone barn into two luxury holiday cottages: the Cider Press and the Wagon House. It's a great location because this blissful countryside is easily accessible from the A35.

We stay in the Wagon House which provides extremely comfortable accommodation for the four

of us. With its large expanse of glass at the front over both floors, it is light inside and provides views from the large open plan kitchen/diner and sitting room to the private courtyard. It ranks among the best self-catering holiday cottages we have stayed in.

The local newspaper reports a recent hedge-laying competition. I didn't even know such things existed but Graham and Pamela explain there is an art to growing the hedgerows that this part of east Devon is known for.

Days out include nearby Colyton where we board the Seaton Tram - a unique narrow gauge electric tramway on a three-mile line from Seaton via Colyford. It travels through the wetlands and nature reserves of the wonderful Axe Estuary.

We are also curious to visit popular Salcombe that has stunning views across the bay and historic narrow streets lined with characterful properties and a thriving art scene.

Just under two hours away we find The Big Sheep at Bideford that hosts sheep races and has plenty for children.

We had heard that Croyde had to be seen too and the approach along the coast is magnificent, narrow roads adding to the character of this surfers' paradise.

Escot House at Ottery St Mary is a good way to end our trip with its falconry experience, red squirrels, otters and peacocks. Our daughters enjoy the woodland playground but this is a must for older children who can take part in bush craft skills, arts and crafts and toasting marshmallows on the camp fire.

By Tim Saunders www.travelwriter.biz 76

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Book Review

By Bruce Edwards

Panasonic

The Angel and the Cad Geraldine Roberts

Macmillan h/b £20 ISBN: 978-1-4472-8349-2 First published - June 18th 2015 First glance at this very well-presented volume might suggest that it is an up-market historical novel, and the sub-title ‘Love, loss and scandal in Regency England’ won’t alter the view. However, once immersed and you’ve read the introduction, all will be revealed. Catherine is to be envied. She’s rich, comes from an aristocratic family, has a sweet temperament and an appearance to cause most gentlemen to swoon. So, she must be - and is - the Angel. The Cad - and this is the hinge on which the main structure of the true story turns - is the man she falls in love with. He exploits every aspect to his own advantage. You’d have thought he’d be happy with such a delightful creature, but no, he beds every susceptible woman in sight..

Catherine forgives him much, tries her hardest for reconciliation for the sake of her three children; alas to no avail and eventually sees her lovely Wanstead mansion demolished to help pay off his debts. Poor girl; she lives in an age when women seeking divorce are up against the law, which doesn’t allow mothers custody of their children either. This is a very enticingly written and well researched account with some interesting revelations so, even if factual books aren’t your thing, be brave, for you won’t regret the read.

Riveting stuff.

Suggestion and queries to: writerselect@gmail. com. We’re always happy to consider specific titles for review, though without obligation.

Can’t find a title? E-mail your details and we’ll try to help.”

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everything matters

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Classifieds Clock Repair Brian R Bulley

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Pet Services

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