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Great Ashby

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June 2015

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Contents Butterfly Reincarnation

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Animal Know-How..........................................28 The Villager Bookshop.....................................31 Russell Grant’s Horoscopes..............................33 Puzzle Page.....................................................36 What’s On........................................................38 Prize Crossword...............................................42

Summer Solstice

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Three Counties Asylum......................................4 Knowing Your Consumer Rights........................9 Beer of the Month...........................................13 Fathers Day.....................................................16 Fancy a Home Swap Holiday?..........................21 Butterfly Reincarnation...................................24 Summer Solstice.............................................27 Editorial - Richard Knight, Jonathan Vernon-Smith, Ted Bruning, Andy Mydellton, RSPCA and Russell Grant Advertising Sales Victoria Tonkinson - 01767 261122 vickie@villagermag.com

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

Disclaimer - All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however, Villager Publications Ltd can not take any responsibilDesign and Artwork ity for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the Design 9 advertisers or any statements given in the editorial. No part of Tel 07762 969460 this publication may be reproduced or stored without the express To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767permission 261122of the publisher.

History

Three Counties Asylum

By Richard Knight

In the early 1850s, the old Bedford asylum was beyond repair and overcrowded with both the living and dead. A new asylum for Herts, Beds and Hunts was proposed.

George Fowler Jones drew up plans for the new Three Counties Asylum. He chose a Gothic Romantic ‘corridor’ design so that people did not have to walk through rooms when moving around. Inspired by a visit to Hatfield House, Jones designed corridors that resembled Elizabethan and Jacobean long rooms.

Nevertheless, the design was the most modern of its day with hot water, indoor flushing toilets, individual beds, ventilation and views. In strict Victorian rule, the sexes had separate wards, entrances, dining rooms and ‘airing courts’.

Builder William Webster of Lincolnshire began work in 1857, using Arlesey white bricks and employing local tradesmen. When the local brickworks could not keep up with demand,

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Webster built his own small brickmaking plant on site.

The building sub-committee was so pleased that in 1858, employees and their wives were treated to a party to ‘raise the roof’ of the new building. On 8th March 1860, the asylum received its first “inmate pauper lunatics” – six females and six males, aged from 27 to 77. The asylum officially opened on 2nd April, 1860.

By 1866, overcrowding was a problem. With poor rural living conditions, people were faking mental illness to be admitted as the asylum offered three meals a day, your own bed, heating, hot water, indoor flushing toilets, free beer, a daily tobacco allowance and free fortnightly entertainment fortnight. By 1874, there were 900 patients and only 71 staff to look after them. Plans to extend were put forward; some patients moved and a chapel and 20-bed detached isolation hospital built.

In 1881, the building looked much as it does

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today, apart from one feature: the clock tower. A huge ‘Jules Verne’ turret housing a massive clock with two faces (one facing north, the other south) it was dismantled in 1902 as being ‘unsightly’ and the bell re-hung in the chapel.

No photos survive of the inside of Three Counties but walls would have been lime-washed with bare floorboards and scattered rugs, illuminated by gas lighting that omitted a constant hiss. Baths were made of lead encased in wood with hot water from steam boilers. Iron bedsteads were used throughout with straw mattresses and pillows during the early years.

Working in the asylum was hard and a 14-hour shift not uncommon.

Violent patients could not be manacled, chained or cuffed and padded cells only used in extreme circumstances. In the early 1920s, the terms “pauper lunatic” and “asylum” were changed to “patient” and “hospital”. Everything with the word ‘asylum’ was disposed of, from headed paper to crockery and attendants’ whistles.

Even a street name in Arlesey was changed from Asylum Road to Hospital Road. In 1926, electric lighting and a new cinematograph was installed much to the delight of patients and staff.

By the 1930s it was becoming clear that patients could be treated for mental illness. Insulin Coma Therapy (ICT) was one new treatment. Involving gradual insulin overdose until coma was induced, it was thought this caused the mind to relax and become clear. It was ceased in 1947.

Electro-Convulsive Therapy (ECT) was introduced in 1939 and TCH’s Dr Robert Russell pioneered its development for depression and schizophrenia.

Unique to Three Counties, Dr Russell opened an ECT suite where people could come as out-patients. He was so successful that he set up his own business in Letchworth selling and developing ECT machines.

Another radical treatment involved patients being bitten by mosquitoes carrying malaria! A high fever state was believed to cure neurosyphilis, caused by untreated syphilis. By1949, Penicillin had arrived and was proving more useful.

Possibly the most barbaric and dangerous operation was introduced at TCH in 1943: the frontal lobotomy. Controversial from the start, it was used on patients with a ‘disruptive violent

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nature’ and involved scraping or burning away the frontal lobes of the brain. It was quietly abandoned in the early 1950s.

The late 1930s saw expansion: a nurses’ home was opened and in 1939, a new admissions block, hydrotherapy and insulin therapy unit, small operating theatre and two villa wards for convalescent patients were built.

Classed as “mental defectives”, TCH admitted children as young as six, who were kept on the same wards as adults.

With building work complete, the hospital was requisitioned by the war department and all children were moved to the new Bromham unit. London’s Royal Free Hospital was relocated to the site on a 25-year lease in a series of large wooden huts and huge marquee tents in the hospital grounds. Each was fitted out with wooden flooring, 100 beds, emergency operating theatres and makeshift drainage. Entertainment was still high on the agenda, the highlight being a concert

by Vera Lynn!

In 1947, the hospital was returned to the authority of Three Counties. The Royal Free moved back to London and, as the ministry still had 17 years of its lease, the London Chest Hospital moved in.

Peacetime at TCH saw a full recreation programme including weekly games, crafts, cinema showings, dance nights, plays and variety performances.

Bowls and cricket matches were a regular event, popular with staff and patients alike.

By 1954, there were 1,210 in-patients and outpatients daily. It was this year that farming at TCH stopped by order of the ministry. Livestock and TCH-owned Wilbury Farm were auctioned.

In the late 1950s, the NHS began taking control of mental hospitals. MP Enoch Powell proposed massive changes to mental health policy including the closure of all Victorian mental institutions within a decade, to be replaced by short-term hospitalisation and community-based care.

With the arrival of the 1960s, the hospital celebrated its centenary. By 1965, the association with Bedfordshire and Huntingdonshire was over.

Thus ended over 100 years of the Three Counties connection. The hospital was re-named Fairfield Hospital and would be known under this banner until it closed.

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Three Counties Radio

Knowing Your

By Jonathan Vernon-Smith

Consumer Rights

I am becoming increasingly fed up with dealing with retailers right across Beds, Herts, Bucks and beyond who either don’t familiarise themselves with consumer law, or who deliberately attempt to pull the wool over their customer’s eyes. That makes it so important that we all understand the law as consumers. That way, when a retailer talks rubbish, we spot it straight away.

I thought this month I would take the opportunity to explain ‘Statutory Rights’. You may have seen on a receipt or contract ‘This does not affect your statutory rights’. This means that anything the retailer has offered you (in terms of returns policy etc) does not change the things you’re entitled to by law.

When you purchase any brand new goods or services in the UK you are protected by your ‘statutory rights’ (sale of goods act 1979).

All goods must be: a) Fit for purpose b) Of ‘reasonable’ quality (based on the cost) c) Last for a reasonable amount of time (based on the cost) Therefore, if you buy (for example) a fridge for £300, it should last for a ‘reasonable’ amount of time. I would suggest a minimum of 5 years’ worth of ‘reasonable use’ before it blows up. If it develops a manufacturing fault at any time during that period, the retailer IS LIABLE! Any attempt to fob you off, should be met with a firm, but polite explanation of your consumer rights.

Bear in mind, the retailer is at liberty to take into account usage you’ve had from a product before it breaks though. For example, if your 4 year old fridge blows up, the retailer could offer to replace it, but will ask for a contribution from you for the 4 years use you had from the previous model.

For the first 6 months after purchase, it’s up to the retailer to prove that the fault with the item is NOT their responsibility. After the first 6 months it’s your responsibility. Therefore, my advice when dealing with an obstructive retailer, is to obtain an independent report to confirm that the product has a manufacturing fault, then ask the retailer to not only fix the problem, but also reimburse you for the cost of the report.

It is also worth noting that when you first purchase an item, during the first 4 weeks you are entitled to return faulty goods and get a full refund. After this period of time, generally you will have to permit the retailer an opportunity to repair the item if they so wish.

So, remember next time the manager of a shop says ‘oh sorry, there’s nothing we can do I’m afraid’. Tell them you understand your statutory rights and if they still fail to help, then call my team on 01582 637450 and I’ll have a little ‘word’ for 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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Beer of the Month

Here’s something to think about as summer drinks come into vogue: lager and its British predecessor, pale ale, are both by-products of coalmining.

By the mid-1600s Derbyshire maltsters had used up all the forests in the region and started using coke to dry their malt instead. They found that it burnt more consistently and controllably than wood and produced malt that wasn’t charred or burned. This new pale malt-made beer gradually caught on and Burton became Britain’s brewing capital.

In the 1840s Bavarian and Czech brewers also started using coke instead of charcoal to produce light, clean, refreshing beers that eventually conquered Europe and, in due course, the world.

The beer-style we loosely call lager has never been a “craft” product. It’s mass produced and makes up 90% of the world’s beer today. So here are two industrial lagers from the countries that invented

Food & Drink

By Ted Bruning

the style.

First, Staropramen at 5% alcohol from the massive Molson Coors-owned brewery in Prague. It’s a very light-bodied beer, straw-coloured, with malt rather than hops dominating both the nose and palate. The finish is quite short, with some malty sweetness but, again, not much hop. Not a great deal of character, but pleasingly refreshing.

Krombacher at 4.8% from an old family-owned brewery in the Siegerland coal and steel region is Germany’s top-selling pils.

Compared to Staropramen it’s paler, spritzier, with a hint of orange on the nose, and then massive hop bitterness in palate and finish, beautifully balanced by biscuity malt. A big beer from a big brewery – and a classic.

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Time of Year

Fathers Day Father’s Day is celebrated worldwide in recognition of the contribution fathers make to the lives of their children. In the UK it takes place on the third Sunday in June.

There are various stories about the origins of the day. Some believe it is associated with pagan sun worship as the sun is known as the father of the universe and the June solstice occurs around the same time as Father’s Day each year.

Others claim that the tradition originated in the ruins of Babylon. It is said that a young boy called Elmesu carved a father’s day message on a card made out of clay around 4,000 years ago.

The UK is believed to have followed on after the USA started celebrating the annual occasion. Again there are different versions,

but most link the commencement of the modern Father’s Day with the campaign led by Sonara Smart Dodd.

When she was 27, Sonara decided after listening to a Mother’s Day Sermon that there should be something similar for fathers. The local Spokane Ministerial Association and the Young Men’s Christian Association supported her and a local celebration took place in 1910.

The popularity of the day spread across the USA and it became officially recognised by President Woodrow Wilson in 1916.

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BLADES BARBERS ReDUCeD WAiTing Times nOW With seven team members at BLADes BARBeRs

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Travel

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LOOKING FOR AN ACCOUNTANT AND A PROFESSIONAL ONE TO ONE SERVICE ?

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Wildlife

Butterfly Reincarnation

By Andy Mydellton Butterflies are fragile and dainty creatures that begin their four-stage life cycle as a tiny white egg which is laid on carefully selected plants during warmer months. Most butterflies instinctively lay their eggs on the types of plant that the caterpillars have specifically evolved to eat.

Synchronicity has evolved hand-in-hand so that the caterpillar emerges to feed at the same time as their selected flowers are in leaf. A caterpillar is little more than an eating device. They hatch in fantastic numbers to survive great onslaughts of predation and feed unquenchably throughout their existence, outgrowing their expandable skins four times before they are ready to develop into the third stage.

After successfully growing to its largest size possible, the caterpillar closes down this stage of its life to imprison itself into a chrysalis. It begins its transformation by instinctively finding a sheltered spot from predators, spinning a thread of silk to dangle from, splitting its skin and forming a discoloured outer shell.

The chrysalis stage appears to be a lifeless, hard sheath that doesn’t do anything. But the exciting miracle is happening inside these protective outer layers where metamorphosis takes place.

When I was a child I was taught that a caterpillar metamorphosed into some type of coagulated soup before completely re-assembling itself. Now biological scientists have discovered that they

Small White Ringshill Farm Butterfly

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keep their major organs intact. So when the adult butterfly emerges to complete the fourth stage of its life cycle, it inherits the caterpillar’s knowledge and instincts (referred to as genetic epistemology).

This innate information directs the butterfly to seek the same flowers, the same territories and shun the same dangers as the caterpillar did so successfully.

The more common species I see at Millstream Fork are the cabbage white, peacock, lesser tortoiseshell and red admiral. However others also arrive in the summer months, attracted by the plants we have chosen to grow.

Many garden butterflies are generalists which allow them to become more ubiquitous, while others are specialists, needing particular conditions to complete their lifecycles.

Britain has 59 butterfly species, many of which are magnetised to plants such as buddleia that offer the nectar they need. Stinging nettles, although classified as ‘weeds’ by many gardeners, attract the peacock butterfly.

For the wildlife enthusiast, a little research can go a long way in attracting specific butterflies. Nowadays butterfly habitats such as wild flower meadows are rare because of intensive farming. Fortunately wildlife gardening is helping to solve this problem as it gives butterflies a mosaic of alternative habitats.

Many wildlife gardens are separated from each another by large distances, but butterflies can fly over ‘dead land’ such as roads, car parks and large buildings - a huge advantage over land-based animals which find these physical boundaries too difficult to overcome.

At a time when many butterfly populations are reducing, every wildlife garden can make an immediate and strong impact with little cost.

Andy Mydellton is CEO of the Foundation for Endangered Species (FES) & Wildlife Zone.

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Time of Year

Summer Solstice Summer Solstice (sometimes also referred to as Midsummer) falls between June 21st-22nd, and celebrates the longest day and shortest night of the year, the sun reaching its highest point in the northern hemisphere, and the very pinnacle of summer-time.

Midsummer is celebrated with a variety of different traditions and celebrations around the world – and indeed around our own country, with parties commonly held from the Highlands and Islands of Scotland to the Cornish coast, and in particular at Stonehenge, where tens of thousands gather every year for an all-day festival, watching the sun rise early on 21st June and celebrating the longest day with everything from quiet observations to full-on festivities.

The lighting of bonfires often forms a big part of the culture, celebrating the burning light of the sun and mirroring it, a tradition stemming from pagan and Celtic roots.

In addition to having huge Pagan significance, the solstice is relevant too to some branches of Buddhism and those who practice Yoga, in which Sun Salutations often play an important role and the sun is something very much worthy of reverence.

The solstice can be explained by the angle of the earth’s axis, the tilt of which is the reason we experience our four seasons each year. When the axis tilts towards the sun during the summer months we know here in the UK, winter is of course in the southern hemisphere, rotating entirely by the time we reach the opposite end of the year.

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n d i hby e s Ba at As e Gr 27

Pets

Animal Know-How Warning to Bedfordshire’s dog owners The RSPCA urges dog owners across the county to take extra precautions when out walking their pets this spring and summer. This is to help prevent the spread of the deadly disease, Alabama Rot (CRGV).

Many pet owners may not have heard of this mysterious illness. It first appeared in the late 1980s affecting greyhounds in America and has, unfortunately, now spread to at least 18 counties in England. 46 cases have been confirmed since December 2013 – which is an increase of 460 per cent compared to the period from November 2012 to November 2013.

One case has been found in Bedford to date.

Vets4Pets has launched an interactive guide to provide dog owners with information on the disease, including confirmed locations and tips on how to reduce the risk of dogs becoming infected (www.vets4pets.com/stop-alabamarot/).

Unfortunately, if not spotted early, Alabama Rot can lead to sudden and potentially fatal kidney failure.

Knowing the warning signs is key to treating the disease. If caught early your vet can

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evaluate if your dog has contracted this dangerous condition.

It is thought that the disease is picked up on the paws and legs on muddy walks, so always: • wash off woodland mud • check for signs (a skin lesion – which appears as a distinct swelling, a patch of red skin, or open and ulcer like) • if in doubt, call your vet.

The cause of CRGV is still unknown, so there is no known way to prevent your dog from contracting the disease. In addition, there have been cases of closely associated dogs becoming affected – so the RSPCA warns pet owners to be vigilant.

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

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Premier Painters and Decorators

Premier Painters and Decorators are a professional, punctual and hard working company delivering outstanding quality of work to our clients in and around Stevenage From wallpaper hanging, feature walls, coving and cornice work. We even clean facias, soffits and guttering. (PVC or Wood) If you would like to take advantage of our services, require a quote or advise please do not hesitate to contact us. Be assured when Premier quote a job there are NO HIDDEN EXTRAS. Private and commercial, exterior and interior painting services.

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The Villager Book Shop

Bringing local authors and readers together The Villager and Town Life magazine is delighted to launch a new initiative this month - The Villager Book Shop, aimed at promoting the work of local authors and filling the gap left by the closure of so many small independent bookshops.

Our first book on offer is Hertfordshire Through Time by Stephen Jeffrey-Poulter. Published by Amberley Publishing and one of its successful ‘Through Time’ series, Stephen’s book contains delightful period photographs of the towns and villages in the county of Hertfordshire. It was in Hertfordshire that the English surrendered to William the Conqueror in 1066 - a turning point in the story of the kingdom. In more recent years, the level of urban development in Hertfordshire has rocketed as commuting has become the norm. However, this led to the construction of the world’s first garden city - Letchworth - putting the county at the vanguard of revolutionary social development. Hertfordshire has provided the setting for novels by Austen and Orwell, and more recently for blockbuster films such as Star Wars and Harry Potter, at the county’s famous Elstree and Leavesden studios.

Stephen is a local author who has previously written other titles for Amberley Publishing including Hoddesdon and Broxbourne Through Time, Hertford Through Time, Ware Through Time and Bedfordshire Through Time.

To order your copy of Hertfordshire Through Time, please contact The Villager Book Shop on 01767 261122 or email booksales@villagermag.com. Alternatively, you can fill out and return the form below to The Villager Book Shop, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP. The book is priced at £14.99 plus just £1.00 postage and packing.

I would like to order a copy of Hertfordshire Through Time by Stephen Jeffrey-Poulter.



Name: Address:  I enclose a cheque/cash for £15.99 made payable to Villager Publications Ltd. Publication: Paperback, 96 pages, August 2013 Price: £14.99 ISBN: 978-1-4456-1617-9 Size: 235 x 165mm Rights: World, all languages To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

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Russell Grant’s

Horoscopes

AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th

The Full Moon on 2nd forces you to stop what you’re doing and come to a friend’s rescue.

You’ll be brimming with energy throughout the first half of June. Take this opportunity to get more exercise. The New Moon on 16th is suffused with romance.

PISCES February 20th - March 20th

The Full Moon on 2nd prompts you to question certain career choices. Fortunately, a rewarding job that allows you to work from home is on the horizon. Your artistic talent will generate lots more income during the second half of June.

ARIES March 21st - April 20th

LEO July 24th - August 23rd

The Full Moon on 2nd forces you to put your foot down with demanding people. Take this opportunity to go on holiday or buy yourself some luxuries.

VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd

The Full Moon on 2nd makes family life stressful. Your relatives aren’t happy with certain choices you’ve made. You’ll realise a career ambition at mid-month, causing everyone to envy and admire you.

LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd

Travel plans will be cancelled in early June thanks to a stressful Full Moon. Breathe deep and know the Universe has bigger and better plans for you.

The Full Moon on 2nd piles more work on your plate. Family proves wonderfully understanding and will do their best to make life easier in early June. A platonic relationship could turn into a passionate romance during the closing days of June.

TAURUS April 21st - May 21st

SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd

The early days of June bring an end to a source of unearned income. Pooling your resources will help you overcome this temporary shortfall. The New Moon on 16th is ideal for landing a good job.

GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st

Opportunities related to art, fashion, cosmetics and entertainment are strongly featured. The New Moon on 16th allows you to pay off a long- standing debt.

SAGITTARIUS November 23rd - December 21st

The Full Moon on 2nd marks the final phase of an intimate relationship. June is a great time to show off your expertise while updating your skill set. Taking a class will prove enjoyable.

The Full Moon on 2nd finds you facing off with a pushy partner. Look for good deals on holiday packages on 8th. The New Moon on 16th is perfect for signing a contract or embarking on a serious romance.

CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd

CAPRICORN December 22nd - January 20th

The Full Moon on 2nd reveals a health problem. Ask friends for doctor recommendations. It may be necessary to cancel some holiday plans. Don’t despair. You’ll be able to reschedule a much nicer trip later in the season.

The Full Moon on 2nd brings an embarrassing secret to light. People will seek your professional advice during the first half of June, which is gratifying. If you’re not in a relationship, you will meet someone special.

To Please advertise mention in The TheGreat Villager Ashby andand Town OldLife Town when Directory responding please tocall adverts 01767 261122

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HERTFORD TV SERVICE Tel: 01992 552955 www.hertfordtvservice.co.uk

• • • • • • • • •

MEMBER

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Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

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Codeword 1

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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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“Quality is not expensive, it’s priceless”

Extensions, Refurbishments, Loft and Garage Conversions, Landscaping and General Building Internal and external work with many local references View our testimonials at www.hertfordshirebuilders.co.uk

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37

n O s ’ t Wha In June 17 February-7 July Jill Grey - Life & Legacy Exhibition See website for opening times British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin, SG4 2TS Collector, Curator, Code Breaker, Correspondent and Campaigner, Jill’s story, told mainly in her own words, will amaze and inspire you.

Tel: 01462 420144 Web: www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk 6 May-30 September Luton Hoo Walled Garden 11am-3pm Luton Hoo, LU1 4LF Entry £5 including guided tour Open every Wednesday. Guided tour times: 11.30am, 12.30pm and 2pm. Purchase produce from the Garden Stall. Enjoy a light lunch in beautiful surroundings of homemade cakes, snacks and savouries. Please pre-book dedicated tours for more than 15 people. Tel: 01582 721443 Web: www.lutonhooestate.co.uk 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 June Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-11pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Branch Out is a medium-sized social club for single people and meets every Monday night.

It was formed in 1995 to bring together single, divorced, widowed and separated people, aged 40 upwards, from the Herts, Beds and Bucks area, to socialise and enjoy one another’s company. The club organises regular events, such as dinners, discos, meals, parties, Sunday walks, theatre and concert visits, day and weekend trips and holidays. Web: www.branchout.org.uk 3 June The British Infrantryman’s War by Taff Gillingham 7pm for 7.30pm The Comrades Club, Godmanchester The Cambridgeshire branch of the Western Front Association is pleased to present a talk by Taff Gillingham. Non WFA members most welcome.

A small donation is encouraged at the door to pay for the running of the branch.

Web: www.westernfrontassociation.com

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4, 11, 18 & 25 June Sapphire Social Club 8.30pm Meet in Hitchin This social club caters for the unattached aged 50+ with varied events during the month. No joining fee for the first two months.

Tel: Joyce 07960 440417 or Ian 07900 890583 for information Web: www.sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk 5 June Cambridge Touring Theatre ‘Robin Hood The Musical’ 6pm National Trust Dovecote & Stables, Willington Adults £10, Concessions £8, Family £36 Open air production for all the family. Children come dressed in best Sherwood fashion.

Performance lasts 2 hours including 20 minute interval. Tel: Bookings 01805 624624 Web: www.cambridgetouringtheatre.co.uk 5 June Gallery 1066 Fine Art7-9pm Gallery 1066 Fine Art, Willow Mews, 6a Hitchin Street, Baldock International superstar Dylan Izaak will be visiting the gallery. Tel: 01462 896164 6 June The Signals Museum 10am-4pm The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open to the public. Entry is free but official photo ID such as a driving licence, passport or over 60s Bus Pass is required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom. See website for full information.

Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 7 June Happy’s Circus 12 noon Furneux Pelham C of E School, Furneux Pelham Adults £8, Family of 4 £25 Even the kids will love it! Pip and Mr Happy present a fun packed comedy show for all the family supported by amazing International Circus Artists. BBQ, Pimms tent, face painting, games & fun, Lucky Dip, Homemade Cakes, Tombolas.

Email: FPSA.events@hotmail.com

7 June Shortmead Open Gardens 2-5pm Shortmead Lane, Biggleswade, Beds SG18 0FG Adults £3, Accompanied under 12s free A rare opportunity to visit the grounds of Shortmead House and enjoy the beautiful ornamental and informal gardens. Exhibition in the marquee by Beds Carers - Biggleswade Branch Art Group. Light refreshments available in the marquee, plant sales, WC, baby-changing facilities available. Guide dogs only. All proceeds go to Friends of Shortmead, a charity which supports the restoration and conservation of the grounds to protect the site for future generations. Tel: Marilyn Bond 01767 313663 Email: marilyn@shortmead.com Web: www.shortmead.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/shortmead 7 June The Alabama Hayriders 4.30pm The Oddfellows Arms, Aspley Come and listen to the reunited legendary swing band of the 60s and 70s.

Tel: 01462 701779 for further details and tickets 7 June Charity Quiz 8pm The Five Bells, Henlow Village £2 per person In aid of Purple Trust based in Everton. Teams of up to 8 members. Cash prizes, spit prizes and raffle. Tel: John 01767 680974 8 June Icknield Quilters 7.30pm for 7.45pm start Baldock Community Centre, Simpson Drive, Baldock SG7 6DH Cost £4 Our speaker is Edwina McKinnon - “Colour Stories”. Visitors welcome.

Web: www.icknieldquilters.co.uk

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

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n O s ’ t Wha In June 11-13 June “Carry on Pirton Players” 7.45pm Pirton Village Hall “Carry on Pirton Players” A Comedy Sketch Show in celebration of 20 years since Pirton Players was started. The 20th Anniversary show will include a number of comic sketches and songs which have been put forward by the members of the group - so you can expect a very wide variety of content. Some original sketches which from the first ever 1995 performance are also in the show – a fitting tribute to the group’s heritage and a great opportunity to witness some of the “turns” which led to the creation of the group!

Tickets available from Pirton Village Shop and online.

Web: Tickets www.pirtonplayers.org 12 & 13 June ‘Murder is Served’ 7pm for 7.15pm Wilbury Junior School, Bedford Road, Letchworth Tickets £10 Wilbury Hills Amateur Theatricals (WHAT).

Join us to celebrate a special birthday with a difference! Come to the party.., if you dare! Fish & Chips, Bar, Quiz, Raffle. Tickets from David’s Bookshop, Letchworth or telephone.

Tel: Tickets 01462 732238 Web: www.whatperform.org 20 June June drop-in activity: Samplers 10am-1pm British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin Find out more about our sampler collection, and have a go at designing and making your own samplers. Ideal for younger visitors and their adults, but all welcome. Normal admission fees apply.

Tel: 01462 420144 Web: www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk

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

20 June Summer Fair 11am Old Market Square, Hitchin Schools Museum moves into the Old Market Square for the day of fun, food and fine fare.

There will be displays of dancing by Staplers Country Dance Club and a static display of classic cars.

Tel: 01462 420144 Web: www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk 20 June Ashwell School PTA Fun Day 12-4pm Ashwell Primary School, Silver Street, Ashwell A fun day for the whole family. Cake competition, swimming pool, Pimms, Bar, BBQ, egg throwing competition, face painting, live music, fire engine, bouncy castle and lots of fun!

Tel: 01462 742297 for more information 20 June Almost Abba Tribute Band 8pm til late Meppershall Village Hall Members £2, Non-members £5 Fancy dress optional.

Email: sharon1805@hotmail.co.uk for advance tickets 21 June Biggleswade Antiques Fair 9.30am-4pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Entrance £1.50 This antiques fair offers a diverse range of antiques and collectables so whether you are a professional dealer, an avid collector or just looking for something special, this monthly fair is the place to visit. Café serving breakfast, lunches and afternoon tea.

Tel: 01480 382432 or 07906 647346 Web: www.madisonevents.co.uk

27 June Stotfold Art Group 7th Annual Summer Exhibition 11am-4pm Memorial Hall, Hallworth Drive, Stotfold Free admission Paintings and handmade cards for sale. Refreshments. Free parking.

27 June The Alabama Hayriders Meppershall Village Fete and later at The Plough, Langford from 8.30pm Come and listen to the reunited legendary swing band of the 60s and 70s.

Tel: 01462 701779 for further details and tickets 28 June East Beds Concert Band at Shuttleworth Gates open 2pm, concert starts 3pm Shuttleworth College (Old Warden Village entrance) Adults £6, Concessions £4, Family £15 East Beds Concert Band annual summer concert.

This year, there is no theme to the concert, but there will be a wide range of music performed: from ‘The Blues Brothers’ and ‘Indiana Jones’ through ‘Shepherds’ Hey’ and ‘March to the Scaffold’ to ‘When I’m 64’; it’s quite an eclectic mix so there’ll be something for all the family to enjoy. Bring a picnic, rugs or chairs to sit in the fabulous grounds whilst enjoying the wide selection of music. Not forgetting the opportunity to purchase fantastic homemade ice-cream from Mr and Mrs Maynard.

4 July The Alabama Hayriders Opening at 1pm Langford Fete Come and listen to the reunited legendary swing band of the 60s and 70s.

Tel: 01462 701779 for further details 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

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

39

WINDOW REPAIRS

Serving all of Herts - Based in Stevenage Specialising in replacing misted units

BEFORE AFTER email: info@jmlwindows.co.uk website: www.jmlwindows.co.uk 07977 911 926 / 01438 906300 • Misted/broken double glazed units • Sticking doors or windows adjusted • Broken/loose handles • Leaded or Georgian units replaced • Hinges for gapping windows • Leaks fixed • All types of locks replaced • Energy saving Planitherm glass • Cat/dog flaps in glass or panels • Door re-alignments Visit our website for over 30 customer reviews 40

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gas safe registered

UNIT 5A, THE NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE, WHITEHORSE LANE, STEVENAGE SG1 6NH TEL: 01438 368024 EMAIL: greatashbydrycleaners@gmail.com

• High Quality Dry Cleaning • Latest State-Of-The-Art Machinery and Equipment • Highly Trained and Qualified Operators • Fully Compliant With European Environmental Legislation Dry Cleaning Two Piece Suits - from £9.50 Trousers - from £4.40 Jackets - from £5.95 Shirts - from £2.95 Knitwear - from £4.50 Dress (Plain) - from £6.00 Skirts - from £4.95

Price List

Alteration Shorten Trousers - from £9.00 Waist Take In/Out - from £11.00 Trouser Zip - from £9.50 Duvets Single (Polyester Filling) - from £12.50 Double (Polyester Filling) - from £15.00 King Size (Polyester Filling) - from £18.00

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

41

The Villager Prize Crossword

Prize

ÂŁ25

Across 1 Well ventilated (4) 3 Keeps you dry (8) 9 Hauled (7) 10 Brawl (5) 11 Mixtures (12) 13 Paper handkerchief (6) 15 Small stoat (6) 17 Books of words (12) 20 Not outer (5) 21 Bishopric (7) 22 Bulge (8) 23 Beers (4) Down 1 Fearlessness (8) 4 12:00pm (6)



2 Kingdom (5) 5 Used for cold storage (12) 6 Folk tales (7)

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

12th June 2015 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

7 Opposed to (4) 8 Agrarian (12) 12 Shines (8) 14 Chemistry, biology, physics for example (7) 16 Barrier (6) 18 Perfect (5) 19 Assists (4)

Name: Tel: Address:

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Building, Roofing Maintenance

• General building • Roofing and roof repairs • Roof windows supplied and fitted • Carpentry • Repairs and Maintenance • Brickwork • Renovations • Flat roofing • Block paving • Kitchens and Bathrooms

• • • • • • • • • •

Concreting Site clearance Patios Fencing Guttering Decking Cabins and Sheds Tiling Fascias and Soffits Flooring supplied and fitted • Garden sleeper walls

Free non obligatory Call Russell on Tel 01462 625690/07960 967937 quotes Email: homeworxbuild@outlook.com 1 Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 To Homeworx.indd advertise in The

07/04/2015 15:39 43

I D Decorating Painting & Decorating Services Painting – Interior & Exterior Decorating Coving No Job Too Big Or Too Small Fully Insured & Free Estimates Telephone: Ian Dunklin 0790 508 3799

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To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

45

Premier

Property Maintenance Premier Property Maintenance is a multiple trade company operating in and around Hertfordshire and north London.

We are a well organized management team with a professional approach to Client Liaison, Supervision and Health and Safety.

We operate with a versatile in-house work force with various specialist trades, which results in our ability to provide our Client’s with an ‘all-trades’ service.

We pride ourselves on delivering a competitive quality service to new and existing Clients.

Premier Property Maintenance offers a comprehensive range of services including;  Fully managed bathroom and kitchen installation  Electrical and plumbing certificates for landlords  All aspects of electrical work covered by NIC installers  Plumbing and heating engineer  All aspects of carpentry work covered  Wall and floor tiling  Plastering and cornice work

 Painting and decorating including wallpaper  Roofing - slate and tiled  Brickwork  Laying of laminate and wooden flooring  Conservatory project manage and installation  Fully project managed garden landscaping  Window and conservatory cleaning

www.premierpm.co.uk info@premierpm.co.uk 01438 230943 / 07531 229067

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SHIRON

Domestic Appliances Repairs of

Washing Machines Tumble Dryers Dishwashers Electric Ovens Electric Cookers Microwaves Vacuum Cleaners and all domestic appliances.

VAT Registered.

Specialist in Hotpoint, Indesit, Ariston, Creda and Whirlpool appliances.

Contact RONNIE Tel: 01438 720 304 Mobile: 07739 922493

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Dot Electrical

CM ROOFING Family run business Est. 20 yrs

Fast, Reliable, Fully Qualified Electricians 24 hour service, 7 days a week We offer a range of electrical services covering both domestic and industrial: Rewires, New installations, Garden lighting and power, Intruder alarms, CCTV, Security lighting, Fuse box upgrades Recessed lighting, Central heating systems Electric showers, Fault finding, Solar energy

Tel: 07854738740 / 07516 256241 Email: dot-electrical@hotmail.co.uk Web: www.dotelectrical.co.uk

• • • • • • • • • • •

Repairs & Re-roof Lead Specialists Slating & Tiling Guttering and Drainage Gutter Clearing Fascias & Soffits UPVC Wall Cladding Moss Removal Flat Roofing Single Ply/3 Layer Felt Liquid Plastics

We will beat any written quotation For more information & free estimate

01438 517166 / 07432 624335 chrismead.roofing@yahoo.co.uk www.cm-roofing.co.uk

HERTS OVEN CLEAN Herts Oven Clean is a domestic oven cleaning specialist in Hertfordshire.

Non-caustic, fume-free solution individually prepared for each customer.

Ovens, Hobs, Grills, Extractors, Agas, Microwaves and Gas Barbeques.

Call Richard on 01438 813492 Bring a sparkle to your kitchen today.

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

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