Henlow aug 15

VILLAGER The

Issue 81 - August 2015

and Town

Life

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

Inside this issue

Tropical Paradise Win Tickets to the Cruise Show, Birmingham Win £25

in our Prize Crossword Bringing Local Business to Local People in

Langford, Henlow, Shefford, Stanford, Hinxworth, Ickleford, Caldecote, Radwell, Shillington, Pirton, Upper and Lower Stondon, Gravenhurst, Holwell, Meppershall, Baldock, Stotfold, Arlesey, Hitchin & Letchworth

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Bedfordshire’s Premier Kitchen

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Contents Memories of the Birth of Scouting

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Memories of the Birth of Scouting...........................4 Are Extended Warranties Worth the Money?............8 Walk on Fire! Give it a Go!.......................................10 Win Tickets to the Cruise Show, Birmingham.........12 International Left Handers Day..............................15 Belle of the Beach..................................................16 Credit Cards for Life Stages.....................................20 Heritage, History and Heartbreak...........................22 Fun Quiz.................................................................24

VILLAGER The

and Town

Issue 81 - August 2015

Life

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

Inside this issue

Tropical Paradise Win Tickets to the Cruise Show, Birmingham Win £25

in our Prize Crossword Bringing Local Business to Local People in

Langford, Henlow, Shefford, Stanford, Hinxworth, Ickleford, Caldecote, Radwell, Shillington, Pirton, Upper and Lower Stondon, Gravenhurst, Holwell, Meppershall, Baldock, Stotfold, Arlesey, Hitchin & Letchworth

A Holiday in East Sussex.........................................28 Spiders from the Fork.............................................31 Tropical Paradise....................................................35 Fuel Saving............................................................37 Animal Heroes........................................................40 Russell Grant’s Horoscopes.....................................43 Wordsearch............................................................44 Beer at Home.........................................................46 Puzzle Page............................................................48 Prize Crossword......................................................54 What’s On...............................................................58 Book Review..........................................................62

Spiders from the Fork

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9,500 copies delivered free of charge in the following areas: Henlow, Langford, Astwick, Edworth, Hinxworth, Caldecote, Newnham, Radwell, Bygrave, Shillington, Holwell, Pirton, Upper and Lower Stondon, Shefford, Ashwell End and Stanford (Further bulk drops are made to local shops and busineses in Arlesey, Upper and Lower Stondon, Shefford, Baldock, Letchworth, Hitchin and Stotfold)

Editorial - Catherine Rose, Jonathan Vernon-Smith, Debbie Singh-Bhatti, Kate Duggan, Ann Haldon, Barry Ingram, Tim Saunders, Andy Mydellton, Pippa Greenwood, Wayne Gorrett, RSPCA, Ted Bruning and Bruce Edwards Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost - 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com Photography Ian Wool, Emma Porter and Darren Harbar Photography Design and Artwork Design 9 Tel 07762 969460

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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 responsibility for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the editorial. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher.

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3

History Gillian Clay at Baden-Powell Way

Memories of the

Birth of Scouting

The international Scout movement’s founder, Lord Robert Baden-Powell hoped that Scouting would be “a tool of peace for the world” according to his granddaughter Gillian Ella St Clair Clay.

“He believed that if everyone had the same values, learned the same skills, played the same games, sang the same silly songs, and had the same attitude towards helping people, they wouldn’t want to fight each other” she says.

Gill, who was born in South Africa in June 1937 to the Baden-Powells’ daughter Betty and her husband Gervas Clay, came to Bedfordshire all the way from her home in Wales in June of this year to officially name the longest Baden-Powell road in Europe Baden-Powell Way on the new Kings Reach Estate in Biggleswade. She was accompanied by her great nephew and the great great grandson and granddaughter of Lord Robert, seven-year-old Cub Scout Oscar Clay and his six-year old sister Beaver Scout Anna, who unveiled a commemorative plaque that has a history of their famous ancestor.

Part of Bedfordshire’s Green Wheel Pathway, when it is open, Baden-Powell Way will be 2 km (1.2 miles)

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By Catherine Rose

long. It joins many roads named after Baden-Powell worldwide including the Baden-Powell Trail in California, the Lord Baden-Powell Drive in Australia’s Wagga Wagga, and the Baden Powell Drive along the coast from Cape Town, South Africa. It is linked to other streets on the King’s Reach Estate that have been named in honour of Biggleswade and District Scouts following their contribution to the community, including the planting of 100 trees on the Green Wheel Pathway during their centenary.

The groups were re-dubbed during the space race of the 1960s hence there is Planets Way, Jupiter Way, Neptune Drive, Mercury Lane, Gemini Lane and Erris Avenue.

Gill was raised with the first-hand knowledge that “Scouting is fun” from her grandmother Olave, Lord Robert’s wife and was a Brownie in England by the time she was eight and a half. Although she was put on her grandfather’s knee from a young age, it is her grandmother Olave who she remembers best and she very kindly shared her family album exclusively with The Villager in the photos published here.

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Gillian as a child with her mother and grandmother, Lady Baden-Powell Olave, 20 years his junior, met Robert Baden-Powell when they travelled together on the SS Arcadian to New York in 1912. He was already famous for his involvement in the newly-formed Scouting movement. Each Scout in England donated a penny to buy them the wedding gift of a car.

“My grandmother was great fun. We absolutely loved her” said Gill, recalling visits to Olave for treats.

“I remember her getting ready for some event, polishing her shoes and badge.”

When Gill led her own Brownie group, Olave inspected it, captured here in this rare photo. It becomes clear that both Gill and her mother had no choice when it came to their involvement with Scouting (nor would they have wanted to). Gill tells the story of how one of her brothers came home from Cubs and announced he had volunteered their mother to be the next Akela.

Betty, who died in 2004, was Colony Commissioner for northern Rhodesia. After retirement, she continued as Gill’s assistant Brownie leader. Today, at 78, Gill still works as an assistant Beaver Scout leader, having been a leader for a decade at Beavers and for 18 years at Cubs.

In 2007 for the first time, girls were officially allowed to join Cubs and Scouts. With a blurring of the traditional gender divide, the official line is that both movements have slightly different aims, with Guides having a ‘young women in society’ focus and Scouts being open to all. Gill hopes that Scouts remains “boyish” but admitted she is very glad girls can be in Scouts.

“My daughter would have loved to be in it” said Gill. “She always participated in everything but she couldn’t do badges.

“I think that which one you choose will depend on where your friends and family go. Activities vary with the leaders. Some leaders are very adventurous and others opt more for craft-based pursuits” but adds “They can both do everything”.

She adores Bear Grylls, the ‘survival’ celebrity who was appointed as Chief Scout and the public face of Scouting in 2009. “I think Bear Grylls is wonderful” she said. “He and Peter Duncan have completely transformed the attitude of the media towards

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Scouting. For a long time, it wasn’t cool to be in Scouts and Guides. Now it is cool!”

Whether cool or not, “millions of people have lived and are currently living in the Baden-Powell way” - something that Gill points out in her speech when naming the road not just after her famous grandfather, but after his vision too. The ‘BadenPowell Way’ stands for “helping others and finding fulfilment and happiness”.

On the day of the event, the Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis; the Town Mayor Hazel Ramsey; the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Lady Isabelle and local counsellors joined Gill with Biggleswade and District Scouts and Guides to celebrate. The day began with a traditional soap box derby.

Helen Nellis is also patron of Youth United which was launched in Bedfordshire in 2014. Its aim is to bring together young peoples’ community groups so that resources can be pooled. It also hopes to encourage more adult leaders to come forward.

Helen believes Scouts is invaluable in teaching the social and life skills not necessarily learned at school. “Through camping, outdoor activities and sociability, the Scouting movement teaches young people confidence, teamwork and high self esteem which are the things you need in life. Children learn early on about helping in their community” she said.

“It is rewarding and enjoyable for adults too. Once they dip their toe in the water, they usually stay for around 30 years!”

Four of those young people are Emilia de Luca, Dan Bownes, Maddy Letowska and Ben Febery-Watts from the 28th Bedfordshire and Anglia Scouts and Guides (known as the Clangers) who had been chosen to attend the 12-day 23rd World Scout Jamboree in Tokyo that took place last month.

Today, only four countries in the world do not have Scouts: North Korea, Laos, Andorra and the Chinese Republic and Gill believes her grandfather would not have foreseen the huge growth, popularity and longevity of the movement when he founded it over a hundred years ago.

“He was very disappointed when World War Two came, and sadly he died during the war so didn’t live to see the movement spread as far as it has” she said.

“There were 16 million Scouts in 160 countries when my son was in Cubs. He is 43 now and today there are nearly 40 million, including 10 million Guides.”

Lord Robert Baden-Powell believed you should “try and leave this world a little better than you found it”. Today, his granddaughter continues to spread his vision for young people everywhere.

New leaders are always needed for local groups. If you are interested, please visit: www.scouts.org.uk and search in your local area.

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Three Counties Radio

By Jonathan Vernon-Smith

Are Extended Warranties

Worth the Money?

It doesn’t seem to matter what product you’re buying, there’s now an extended warranty available for everything.

The question people often ask me on my radio show is whether it’s a good idea to pay the extra and take one out?

My answer is generally a big, fat NO! Under your statutory rights you are protected for a ‘reasonable’ amount of time if a manufacturing defect occurs with a product. Depending on the item and the initial cost, this is generally as long as an extended warranty would last anyway.

Remember when the retailer says that after 12 months there’s nothing they can do, they’re fobbing you off. The extended warranty is normally a way of charging you for something you really don’t need.

Sadly some consumers are so trusting of retailers that they believe the company’s advice to be sound. I went to a well known shop once and bought a radio for £15.99. The retailer tried very hard to sell me a 3 year extended warranty for £20. I explained that if the radio failed after a couple of years I would simply purchase a new one at another cost of £15.99. The shop assistant seemed amazed that I was so hostile to the idea. Sadly I would imagine many people go ahead and pay an additional £20 that’s totally pointless.

You should however remember that often when claiming under your statutory rights that a battle will probably ensue. A battle that will require you to hold your nerve.

For most things I would urge you to fight that battle (and call me if you need help), but for other essential products (stairlifts / electric wheelchairs etc) you may consider buying the extended warranty just to give you hassle free piece of mind, and you know what? I wouldn’t blame you.

The rule of thumb is always think long and hard before you hand over your money for something you probably don’t need.

It is also worth looking into the idea of purchasing insurance policies that cover all of your white goods for mechanical failure. For consumers looking for hassle free piece of mind at a lower cost these can be a good alternative to the ‘extended warranty. Please read the terms and conditions though beforehand and understand exactly what the policy will cover.

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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!

Date for Diary Join us at Facebook for more details

Friday 7th August from 10am-12noon

Charity

Garden Tea Party for all the family in the newly opened Chequers Tea Room.

We will be offering cream teas, a selection of cakes and savouries along with pots of tea, freshly ground coffee and a kiddies pack.

Lots of fun to be had with a BIG Bouncy Castle and garden games for the children.

We are hoping to raise lots of money for our local

Garden House Hospice, so please come along and join us!

The Chequers, 33 Queen Street, Stotfold SG5 4NX, Tel. 01462 735 465 To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

9

Local News

Can Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy help you?

Walk on Fire!

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Letchworth charity The Herts MS Therapy Centre is The team at Herts MS Therapy Centre have joined offering you a night to remember a fire forces with to organise this unique Find outcombining if Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can Survivorbility improve walk with the chance support their local charity. healing, give event. takes energy. place on Saturday September Call12th Mark todayin your health, accelerate youItmore It’s only £10 to register and you need to raise a Shefford – at the STMA Social Club. on 01462 684214 Search online for ‘hyperbaric’ and condition. minimum of £140. That’s just £10 and finding Fullyour guidance and safety precautions will be in place sponsors in return for an unforgettable experience. on the night – please don’t practice orbeforehand! email This Charity has delivered 60,000 Oxygen Therapy You don’t have to walk alone… why not make a – all carefully To register online, go to http://walkonfire.eventbrite. sessions since 1988 supervised. oxygen@hmstc.net night of it with a group of friends or colleagues? co.uk. Alternatively, call Patricia on 01462 684214.

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Increase the fun factor of your walk! Spectators Fortothose who would prefer a more relaxed event, are welcome and tickets will be available on the how about coming along to a Fashion Show on 3rd Registered Charity 299524 Hertfordshire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre night for a barbecue and disco.

July at Broadway Hotel, Letchworth. Tickets are just 30 Campus Five, Letchworth, Herts SG6 2JF www.hertsmstherapy.org.uk “We want to offer something different to really £7.50 – you’ll enjoy light refreshments and some capture people’s intrigue and sense of adventure,” amazing savings on famous clothing brands, with up explains Patricia Saunders, Community Fundraiser. to 50% and 75% off usual prices.

“By registering now, raising the £140 sponsorship Buy your tickets online at http://msfashionshow. required will be much easier than leaving it to eventbrite.co.uk or contact Patricia on 01462 684214. the last minute. Families, friends and employers Whether you’re looking for adventure or bargains, the TCH supportive August Villager advert 1-2.pdf 10:33 Centre has a local event for you! are often very as we are a local charity 1 16/07/2015 Herts MS Therapy

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N O I T I T E P M O C The CRUISE Show Birmingham 12-13 September 2015 www.cruisingshow.com Discover a whole world of voyages at The CRUISE Show in Birmingham...

As Europe’s leading cruise event, The CRUISE Show will host the largest collection of major cruise lines and specialist operators all under one roof for one weekend!

Whether you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruise to a far-flung destination, a sumptuous ultra-luxury voyage, maybe a relaxing cultural river cruise or a tropical family cruiseholiday with lots to entertain all ages – The CRUISE Show at the NEC has it all.

Packed with information and inspiration visitors can enjoy exclusive money-saving show offers and upgrades, be inspired by the informative free talks, gain essential expert advice that you won’t find in the brochure, discover different ship styles and incredible destinations and hear directly from the cruise lines about what’s new for 2015/2016.

So, if you’re completely new to cruising and intrigued to discover what it’s all about, or you’re a seasoned cruiser wanting inspiration for your next adventure, then make sure you head to The CRUISE Show at Birmingham’s NEC on 12-13 September 2015.

For more show information please visit www.cruisingshow.com

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We are giving 10 lucky people the chance to win a pair of tickets to the show!

Just answer this simple question below: Where is The CRUISE Show in Birmingham taking place? a) Olympia b) NEC c) Manchester Central Send your answer with your name, address and telephone number to: Cruise Show Birmingham Competition, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP READER’S TICKET OFFER: We are also offering reduced price advance tickets to the show! Get your tickets for only £4 (that’s saving £6 off the door price!!) by quoting ‘VILLAGER’ when booking tickets online at www.cruisingshow.com or when calling 0871 620 4024.

(Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras).

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The Secret is out!

Hair

Beauty

Tanning

Chiropractor

Barbers

has everything under one Roof So spread the word and earn a £10 REWARD* during July/August

* Earn a £10 credit when you recommend a new client to the Barn Hair Studio (after they have had a cut and blow dry). New client gets a £10 discount too! (min spend £40).

visit 12a Queen Street, Stotfold, SG5 4NX call 01462 835611 – log on www.barnhairstudio.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

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Time of Year

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

International Left Handers’ Day

13th August 2015

Since 1976, sinistromanual people the world over have been celebrating their ‘right’ to be left handed - see what I did there?! Even though around 13% of the world’s population are left-handed they are, as one disgruntled leftie put it, “the most discriminated against minority” around!

No one knows for sure why a person is left-handed, but research suggests it is genetic and lefthandedness does tend to run in families.

As any left-hander knows, the world isn’t really designed to cater for them, so having a whole day

dedicated to raising awareness of the everyday issues and challenges faced by the left-handed population is one way of changing that.

In days gone by left-handers may have been forced to use their right hand (at school for example) but nowadays the world is becoming a friendlier place. Tools such as scissors, tin openers, vegetable peelers, knives and tape measures are all available for the non-right-handed.

Left-handedness is controlled by the right side of the brain, which means that lefties are likely to be creative - excelling in music, the arts and media.

They are also inclined to be good at ball sports and at anything requiring hand-to-eye co-ordination.

Though being left-handed might once have been considered a disability, today’s lefties refuse to let it hold them back. “I may be left-handed,” says one, “But I’m always right.” I’m not going to argue!

The Unforgettable Close Up and Cabaret Magic of Steve Dean Immerse yourselves and guests in the close up magic of Steve Dean or enjoy a Cabaret Show that includes mentalism and much more. Have you ever witnessed unexplainable events or illusions so convincing that they leave you fascinated and completely spellbound? This is Cabaret, close up mix and mingle and table magic at it’s very best.

Steve is a master of his craft and a member of the prestigious Magic Circle. He has had many letters of thanks and testimonials from people from all walks of life. From a small dinner party to performing on a British Cruise Liner this sort of entertainment is second to none and will give your guests unusual and fantastic entertainment that they can get involved in and will talk about for months to come.

(Steve is a member of Equity with full public liability insurance).

Please phone or email for details 07719 261147 • 01767 260671 www.stevedeanmagic.co.uk email: stevedeanmagic@aol.com

Winner of Wedding Industr y Exper t Awards 2013-2014 To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

15

Health & Beauty

Belle of the Beach Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

Late nights, lazy days at the beach and endless mojitos… we do love summer holidays. Whether you’re heading off for a week in the Canaries, catching a cruise ship to the Caribbean, or just taking the kids camping to Cornwall, feast your eyes on our pick of the latest beauty releases.

If you like ‘buying British’ you’ll love the new British Botanical Shower Cream from Elemis, which uses UK-sourced ingredients such as chamomile, lavender, rosemary and oats. It smells divine and is incredibly nourishing. At £24 it is rather pricey, but definitely one to consider if you fancy treating yourself.

Looking for a sun cream that’s suitable for all the family? Try Green People’s Organic Children Scent Free Sun Lotion, £16.95. It’s non-greasy and rubs in more easily than a lot of the other natural sunscreens on the market. Offering both UVA and UVB protection, with a choice of SPF 25 or 30, it offers great all round protection. Plus it’s packed with fruit and seed oils, including avocado, olive and aloe vera, and is kind to sensitive skin. It is water-resistant, but won’t survive a long swim in the pool, so do make sure that you reapply it regularly.

If you prefer a lipstick to a gloss, but hate the drying effect that some lipsticks can have, you’ll want to get your hands on one of the new Burt’s Bees Lip Crayons. 100% natural, the crayons use shea butter, jojoba oil and kendi oil to soften and moisturise your lips. I could still feel the difference by the next day.

There are six shades available.

My personal favourite is Sedana Sands – a natural pink with just a hint of caramel, which

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is perfect for summer. Burt’s Bees Lip Crayons are priced at £8.99 and are available from Debenhams, Fenwick and www.burtsbees.co.uk.

We all know the risks, but when the sun is shining and we’re baring our pins on a golden beach, we can’t help but want a tan. Sometimes it’s OK to fake it, and tanning is one of those occasions.

Don’t let the visions of Oompa Loompa lookalikes put you off; fake tans have come a long way and you no longer have to choose between milk bottle white or tangerine orange. For best results, wax or shave the day before, exfoliate well, then follow with a body lotion. Wait until the lotion is fully absorbed before applying the tan. New to the UK market is Aussie tanning brand Black Magic.

Try the Black Magic Instant Tanning Mousse, £23, which is tinted, extremely easy to apply and comes with a mitt to keep your hands stain-free. www. blackmagictan.co.uk If late night cocktails have left your skin looking a bit lacklustre, or you just don’t fancy slapping on foundation in the heat, give Origins GinZing™ Energy-Boosting Moisturizer, £23, a go. Designed to ‘wake up’ tired looking skin and leave it with a healthier looking glow, it’s no surprise that this has quickly become one of Origins’ ‘hero’ products.

A 75ml limited edition version was released this spring, featuring a funky coffee bean lid, but it was snapped up pretty quickly. Still, you may be lucky and find one lurking at the back of a shelf in Debenhams…

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WORDWHEEL

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.

TARGET Excellent: 30 or more words Good: 24 words Fair: 19 words

S E

V

A

R T

R

E

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12/06/2015 09:0

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Finance

By Ann Haldon

Credit Cards For the Life Stages With so many different credit cards to choose from, knowing which one is right for you often depends on the current stage of your life. Whether you’re a young adult just starting work, coping with the financial demands of a young family, or are approaching retirement, here are some of the features and benefits to watch out for.

Students and graduates Most student account ‘packages’ include a credit card for those who qualify, and generally offer an average Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of around 19%. Credit limits are unlikely to be more than £500, but this is often all that is needed to provide a financial cushion.

HSBC student credit card Offered alongside their student current account, you can make payments and view your balance online. Their representative variable APR is 18.9% - average for this type of card, with no annual fee payable.

Graduate cards work in much the same way, often linked to a ‘graduate’ account, and with a similar credit limit and APR. A slight difference is that some banks offer the facility to transfer an existing balance over to your new graduate card at 0% interest for a limited time.

Lloyds Bank graduate card Lloyds offer a limit of up to £500 on credit cards if you are a graduate current account holder.

A selection of cards is available depending on your income as a new graduate, with some cards offering 0% interest on balance transfers.

Young family Rewards cards Parents of young children may prefer to receive rewards and incentives from a credit card. These could include free travel insurance, commissionfree foreign currency, free days out and money-off vouchers for meals at child-friendly restaurants.

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Tesco Clubcard credit card Currently the Tesco Clubcard credit card offers five Clubcard points for every £4 spent with Tesco, including your spend on petrol. You can also earn one point for every £4 spent using the card at other outlets.

Cash back cards Cash back credit cards come in handy if you can pay back the total balance each month. You need to read the small print carefully, however, as higher penalties often apply for missed or late payments.

Santander 123 credit card Santander is currently offering 1% cash back in the major supermarkets when you use their credit card, 2% in major department stores, and 3% on petrol and transport.

Retirees A reduced income in retirement often means a narrower choice of credit cards. Banks and other financial institutions prefer to see a regular wage coming in, and some have a policy of refusing anyone over a certain age, regardless of how much money they have saved. Even if your savings are with the bank you are applying to, banks have been quite rigid on this policy of late.

Saga Platinum credit card A variable representative APR of 11.9 % makes this credit card from Saga a middle-of-the-road option in terms of interest rate. Not the lowest, but not the highest, the perks of this card currently include an introductory 0% on balance transfers and purchases for the first nine months, and 0% foreign currency fees on transactions worldwide.

The best general advice from money experts is to shop around for the best credit card. Don’t be blinded by rewards and offers – simply find a good all-round card with a low interest rate, and let the added extras be just that – extra to the main features.

www.hsbc.co.uk/1/2/credit-cards/student-credit-card www.lloydsbank.com/current-accounts/graduate-account.asp www.lloydsbank.com/credit-cards.asp www.santander.co.uk/uk/credit-cards/123-credit-card www.tescobank.com/credit-cards/compare.html www.saga.co.uk/money/saga-credit-card.aspx

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WOBURN FOREST HOLIDAY VILLAGE

Kids going to school in September?

Wondering how to fill your time?

Or are you simply wanting to get back into work?

Well look no further…

Apply now and you could be joining our friendly Housekeeping Team at the start of the new school term.

Our Housekeeping Department plays a key role ensuring our accommodation is maintained to a high standard and is the largest team on the village. We are looking for enthusiastic team players to join our busy Housekeeping team.

Housekeepers £6.86 per hour working 10am – 2.45pm on Mondays and Fridays or 18 .5 hours per week on a rota to include alternate weekends.

You will be required to conduct a full clean of our lodges and be responsible for up to 4 units of accommodation comprising Kitchen, Bedrooms etc. Accommodation is located throughout the Village reached by a maximum 15 minute walk or cycle.

Housekeepers on rota also provide a maid service.

The right candidate will be a team player, who can work on their own initiative and be willing to learn. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a team in a fast paced, quality environment.

Transport is available for some positions. For further details and to apply please visit: www.centerparcs.co.uk

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 Along with more classic benefits such as profit share and management bonus schemes, life insurance cover, 30 days annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays) and company sick pay.

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

www.centerparcs.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

21

Local News

By Barry Ingram

Heritage, History & Heartbreak Reads like the buzz line for a exciting new book

which you should go out and buy. However this isn’t a book but you do have to buy into it and you do need to get a jacket and put on pair of good shoes or boots to get the most from it.

In just a few weeks time Bedfordshire’s biggest walking event comes either to your town or village or nearby. Commencing on Saturday 5th September there are 9 days of absolute pleasure for those liking the countryside with over fifty walks and many of them located in the east and central part of the county.

This part of Bedfordshire has so much heritage and history along with corresponding heartbreak your 9 days will be well spent. Informative walks are where the leader gives information along the way, not too much to bore but enough to generate even more interest, and starts with World War 2 special operations at Tempsford Airfield which should appeal to local and WW2 Historians and people interested in RAF and Special operations on Saturday 5th. On Sunday 6th Stotfold Mill is the starting point for an interesting ramble around the village with an opportunity to visit the mill and enjoy refreshments afterwards.

Shuttleworth Park opens its grounds for a walk using paths normally not open to the public and part of the picturesque village of Old Warden is added for good measure. At the end why not visit Swiss Garden or the Aircraft museum after some

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refreshment in the restaurant. RSPB has a walk in woods and normal car park charges are being waived for the event.

Later in the week there is Three Mills walk from Stotfold Mill and a Heath and Quarry walk starting from Sandy Town Council Offices and led by Barry Groom from Sandy Tourism. However if you want to go further a field there is an opportunity to climb the tower of St Mary’s Church Clophill after finding out about Clophill’s historical landscape and at Ampthill an opportunity to find out about its history and Henry V111’s involvement with the town.

However if it is simply a good walk you want why not join the morning or afternoon walk from Haynes Village Hall, Ampthill Park, Maulden Woods, and Biggleswade’s Dan Albone Car park or join us on the Greensand Ridge Challenge 40 miles over two days on the weekend of the 12th and 13th.

For those who would like to get out into the countryside but don’t understand maps help is at hand with two “Maps are fun” sessions on Saturday 5th at the Marston Vale Forest Centre.

The festival programme contains walks of heritage, History and Heartbreak and are spread across the whole of the county and is available in Libraries, Travel Hubs, Local Town Councils, local attractions, some shops and cafes or via the web site

www.bedswalkfest.co.uk

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TEMPLARS CROSS LODGE We take time to listen and find the best way forward Contact us to arrange your free initial 30 minute visit (We are happy to come to you for a small extra charge)

www.templarscrosslodge.co.uk Close to Baldock town centre in spacious surroundings this motel style Bed & Breakfast offers off road parking.

• continental breakfast • large luxury en-suite rooms • free wifi internet access • sky tv/dvd player • fridge in room • private location • close to train station • major credit cards taken

Tel: 07970 162753

Email: ami@amcofm.co.uk or sally@amcofm.co.uk North Road, Baldock, Hertfordshire SG7 5DN

Wills Our staff have successfully drafted Wills for many years; truly we are experts.

£135 inc. Single Will

£199 inc. Mirror Wills

Probate

Helping you prove a Will after death.

£545 inc. Plus Court fees [unless it is a huge estate] to obtain a Grant of Probate from the Court

Lasting Power of Attorney Arranging for a relative/friend to act on your behalf if you lose mental capacity.

£350 inc. Plus Court fees to draft & register with Public Guardian Office Contact us for some friendly advice: 01462 674767 Abbeyhill 507 Broadway Letchworth SG6 3PT mhprobateservices@gmail.com

Reassurance when you need it most

Neville Funeral Service

Neville Funeral Service

24 Clifton Road Shefford SG17 5AE t: 01462 813258 e: shefford@nevillefuneralservice.com

96 Walsworth Road Hitchin SG4 9SU t: 01462 444910 e: hitchin@nevillefuneralservice.com

(inc George Squire & Son since 1976)

(inc David J. Binks since 2005)

www.nevillefuneralservice.com To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

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Fun Quiz - Knights and Princesses 1. What was the name of King Arthur’s knight with whom Guinevere had an affair?

2. How is Princess Aurora better known in the title of a Walt Disney film?

3. Who lived alone in a hotel room for a month in preparation for playing the role of the Joker in the 2008 film The Dark Knight?

4. Which actress played Princess Leia in the original Star Wars trilogy?

5. Dance Of The Knights from the ballet Romeo And Juliet is used as the theme song for which BBC TV show?

6. In April 2010, which princess became the first ever royal to complete the London Marathon?

7. Which former chief executive officer of the Royal Bank of Scotland Group had his knighthood annulled due to the near collapse of the bank in 2008?

8. Who provides the voice of Princess Fiona in the Shrek films?

9. Which British fashion house has a knight on a horse on its logo and is famous for its trademarked tartan pattern?

10. What was Princess Diana’s maiden name?

Before

After

1. Lancelot 2. Sleeping Beauty 3. Heath Ledger 4. Carrie Fisher 5. The Apprentice 6. Princess Beatrice 7. Fred Goodwin 8. Cameron Diaz 9. Burberry 10. Spencer

EBAY COLLECTIONS

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Local & Reliable

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ROOFLINE PRODUCTS INSTALLED

BY THE PROFESSIONALS

PVC-U soffits, fascia, guttering and cladding in flat and woodgrain effects and a choice of colour

10 year guarantee Very low maintenance Quality approved zinc-free plastics to eliminate rusting Seamless colour-matched products across the entire range For a free quotation please call Langford Windows

01462 701828

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24/01/2014 14:19

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Travel

A Holiday in

By Tim Saunders

East Sussex

Of the 100 or so castles in England, more than 30 are in the South East - historically this region has always been most vulnerable to attack from foreign shores.

When we stay at Castle Cottage in East Sussex, there are views towards the delightful Wadhurst Castle - complete and unusually, still lived in. “Does Rapunzel live there?” asks Harriett (4). Not quite, but it has been in the same family for over 50 years and is certainly the stuff of childhood dreams.

Castle Cottage shares its Regency architectural style.

Large sash windows let copious amounts of light in. From the bedrooms, there are not only views towards the castle but also the walled garden where those seeking an exclusive venue are married. These views towards the beautiful East Sussex countryside beyond are magical.

The cottage will accommodate six guests on a selfcatering basis. All mod cons including a dishwasher, washing machine and tumble dryer are included: extremely useful when travelling with little ones.

We all love this spacious, characterful house, which is finished to a high standard with elegant furnishings tastefully complementing the architecture. I am drawn to the bookcase where there are various leather-bound works by the greats.

It is easy to walk to the village of Wadhurst from the 140-acre working estate. It quickly becomes clear that not only is this part of the world extremely affluent but that it is pleasingly home to a high proportion of independent traders. You have to look hard to find a well-known supermarket chain and yet it is only an hour away from London.

Many guests visit the National Trust properties and there are a variety to choose from in this area including Sissinghurst Castle which comes highly recommended.

Only about half an hour away over the Kent border, the castle itself has a varied history including use as a prison in the 1700s. We all enjoy climbing the Elizabethan tower with its splendid views across the 450-acre estate, the magnificent gardens transformed by writer Vita Sackville-West and her diplomat author husband, Harold Nicolson, in the 1930s.

At Michelham Priory, we learn the important role it played in WW2 as a home to evacuees, British and Canadian forces as well as being a farm worked by land girls. There’s also a rope museum and a forge

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Harriet and Heidi run towards the Elizabethan Tower at Sissignhurt Castle which is still in use today. The priory has 800 years of history and includes England’s longest water-filled moat dating back to 1229.

Owned by Sussex Past, it is a great day out with lovely gardens, archery at weekends and art exhibitions throughout the year in conjunction with Creative Coverage. A display of plants used for medieval purposes in the physic garden is very interesting.

En route to Brighton, we stop off at the National Trust’s Sheffield Park and Gardens with historic park and woodland influenced by Capability Brown.

We have only just touched the surface of the wonders of East Sussex.

Tim Saunders is our regular travel writer. Visit his website at www.travelwriter.biz

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NOW DESIGNING AND BUILDING BESPOKE PIZZA OVENS

Builders Ltd. General Builders Paul Crane 07815 578768 / 01438 357757 infocranebuilders@gmail.com 1 PARK LANE – HENLOW – BEDS – SG16 6AT

www.cranebuildersltd.co.uk

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Wildlife

Spiders from the Fork

By Andy Mydellton

Clearing up my workshop, I found myself within inches of a large coal-black spider. I jumped then gave myself a wry smile that this peaceful creature had startled me without any effort whatsoever.

Spiders take refuge in buildings for warmth, comfort and safety from other predators. During the worst months, only the hardiest and most successful hunters survive to pass on their genes in the spring.

This spider must have been one of those survivors.

The spiders that inhabit this particular corner of the world are only a small representation of the 30,000 or so species alive today. Many are cannibalistic, while others hunt insects and invertebrates. Various species spin different quality silks for their web. Their safety lines are able to bridge many yards of open space.

I did not have time to identify the workshop’s spider but it would have been one of the many that usually inhabit the garden including orb, money and house spiders.

One unusual type can be found in garden ponds.

Water spiders have a very different lifestyle to those found spinning webs in hedgerows and are fascinating to watch. To search for food, they create a bell-shaped bubble which they use to breathe underwater. It allows them to remain submerged for hunting forays into the deep.

Ted Hughes’ Tales from Ovid, the ‘Metamorphoses’ tells the story of Arachne, a humbly-born woman who challenged Minerva, Goddess of Weavers to a spinning contest. When Arachne won, angry Minerva transformed her and her descendants into spiders, doomed to spin forever and spiders became known as arachnids.

The true definition of an arachnid is that they have two distinct body segments with four pairs of jointed legs. Other members of the arachnid family include mites, ticks, horseshoe crabs and scorpions! Arachnids are different to insects that have three body parts and six legs.

For years pioneering scientists have been trying

to replicate spiders’ silk for its strength, durability and richness. Incredibly, it is five times harder than steel of the same thickness. Companies plan to use it for high grade items of clothing, personal protective equipment and engineering. It shows how much society values the spider’s natural fibre.

Part of the reason why scientists have found this substance impossible to replicate is because it is made of protein. When I catch a spider weaving its intricate web, I am amazed thinking about how such a small body can reconstitute its own natural liquid into an acid that it spins out as a hardened solid.

The initial stickiness of the web tethers invertebrates that have stumbled into it, long enough for the spider to race to its doomed prey. It then kills its victim and spins the corpse into a silken coffin to return and devour its meal at leisure. Over time, the web’s deathly silk gradually loses its glue-like qualities. So the spider simply recycles this protein-rich fibre by eating it and respinning.

Considering all this, we can see spiders not as household or workshop pests, but as truly magical animals instead.

Photography: Emma Porter

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BRANCHING OUT FA M

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Seasoned logs for sale

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Visit us at www.branchingoutservices.co.uk

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Garden

By Pippa Greenwood

Tropical Paradise As the summer’s end is not too far away, many of us will be wishing for that exotic holiday we never quite had. But you can recreate that Typically Tropical Feel in your own garden instead. The temperatures may not be quite what they might be on a real exotic holiday, but it’ll certainly help to make your garden feel warmer and more appealing, and you can be sure that it’ll last a lot longer than the classic two week long trip.

A tropical oasis might be particularly well suited to an urban garden, where temperatures are often warmer and conditions more sheltered and protected, but even if your garden gets its fair share of frosts you can still make an impact using a mixture of tender and hardy plants all of which have that exotic feel to them. Plant closely or fill ‘gaps’ with temporary plantings of the less hardy tropical look plants and you will create that dense, lush looks which spells tropical paradise.

Lush, large leaves will always help to create a rainforest or exotic atmosphere and you could even grow a miniature banana called Musa ‘Basjoo’, which shows a good degree of hardiness. Indian shot plants, also known as the cannas are great and fast growing too. For very bold, colourfully striped foliage and screaming orange flowers try Canna ‘Tropicana’, or for a larger than life effect try the banana Ensetes ventricosum ‘Maurelii’ which grows very fast and has wonderfully rich purplegreen leaves.

If you want more than just foliage, the bulbous Eucomis bicolour has out-of-this world greenish yellow flowerheads which give it the common name of ‘pineapple plant’. Another favourite of mine is the Angel’s trumpet. These gorgeous looking plants may be very poisonous but the flowers of Brugmansia (previously known as

Datura) as angel’s trumpet is also known, take some beating – choose white, yellow or cream and enjoy their perfume and elegant good looks.

Although not hardy if you grow it in a pot it can be kept in the garden during all but the worst weather and then brought out again once it has started to warm up the following spring.

Don’t forget the vertical surfaces such as trellis, walls and fences as they too can be given a floral and foliage makeover. These may look boring now, but will look great when covered with passion flowers, ornamental vines or the pretty Cobea scandens commonly known as the cup and saucer plant.

Then add to the ‘action’ using a few dramatic features – perhaps a Trachycarpus fortunei palm in open ground or a pot, or in the form of a sculpture or statue. If you go to the garden centre, many statues and garden ornaments are much more affordable than you might think. Partially hidden with some lush foliage they help to add to the jungle-like atmosphere.

There are plenty of tropical-effect plants to choose from including: tree ferns, phoenix palms, yuccas, cordylines, Rodgersia pinnata, Gunnera manicata, Rheum palmatum, cycads, citrus (including lemons, calamondin orange and other fruiting varieties) and bamboos.

So, you see, the potential is there to create a holiday paradise without having to leave home, brave delays at the airport, find a house or petsitter…..all you need now is a deck chair and a cocktail or two, delivered on a tray!

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for Nemaslug & other biocontrols, Speed Hoes, Speed Weeders SoftTie, pop-up crop covers, copper tape and lots more besides.

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35

Gardening a Pain?

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We are here for your landscaping projects too  Patios  Artificial lawns  Deckings  Fencing  Turfing  Re-design and more  One off ‘nightmares’ cleared

Book your weekly or fortnightly maintenance visits NOW Prices from just £14.00 per week For more details or for a free quotation call 01462 262103 or email: david.sunshinegardensbaldock@mail.com 36

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Fuel Saving Rising fuel prices make the news all too often and while we can’t escape rising fuel costs, we are not entirely defenceless. Here are some simple fuelsaving tips we can adopt for every journey: There are only three major rules we all should follow: drive smoothly, accelerate gently, read the road ahead.

Keep to the designated speed limits. Driving at 70mph can use up to 11 per cent more fuel than at 65mph.

If you have cruise control, use it. As a motoring journalist, I drive many thousands of miles every year and I’ve proven the fuel-saving benefits of cruise-control many times over.

Check your tyre pressures regularly and follow the recommended pressures set by the car’s manufacturer. Under-inflated tyres cause resistance meaning your engine has to work harder to maintain the desired momentum.

Nearly all cars these days engine stop/ TJP sold August.pdf 1 have 16/07/2015 15:49

Wasp Nest Treatments

Motoring

By Wayne Gorrett

start eco systems fitted as standard, But, if yours doesn’t, turn off the engine if you think you’ll be stationary for a while.

Change up through the gears as early as possible, but without making the engine labour. Diesels can change up a gear when revs reach around 1,500rpm. Changing up at around 2,300 for petrol engines should make a difference.

On a down slope, don’t be tempted to put the car in neutral as it won’t save fuel. In neutral, the engine is at idle so is still using fuel. In gear - but not under power – modern electronic fuel systems cut off fuel to the engine.

De-clutter and shed excess weight such as roof racks. The lighter your car the less fuel it needs to burn to maintain the desired momentum.

Give your driveway or patio a facelift

Safe and effective treatments from £40

Sometimes you don’t realise just how old or tired looking your driveway or patio may be looking until after it has been professionally cleaned using our high powered jet wash.

Our treatments are proven to remove weeds and prevent them from reappearing, we can remove most oil stains from driveways, and unsightly moss from between the cracks. Resanding and surface sealing will help keep these areas free from a takeover of growth for a good period of time.

Call 01462 435867 (24 hours)

7 days a week - No call out charge To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Call today on 01462 435867

to arrange your driveway or patio clean

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REDTAIL PEST CONTROL For All Your Pest Control Needs All Pest Species Dealt With BPCA (1&2) Qualified Member of the NPTA Basis Prompt Registered Very Reasonable Prices CRB checked Contact

JAMES ROSE MOB: 07807429843 email red.tail.1st@gmail.com

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RH GARDEN DESIGN

Business gone slow?

Let us help!

Want a beautifully maintained garden but don’t have the time?

You don’t want to be maintaining the garden at the weekend you want to be enjoying it.

So call us and let us take care of it.

Regular maintenance visits, grass cutting, hedge trimming, garden clearances, seasonal pruning, and so much more...

“We are passionate about the garden”

Advertising in The Villager is easy. To find out more call Nigel on 01767 261122 or email nigel@villagermag.com

Tel: Richard 01462 612033 Mob:07738 246568 www.rhgardendesign.com

GILKS FENCING LTD

All Types of Fencing, Gates & Railings, SUPPLIED & INSTALLED

Call for a FREE Survey & Quotation Visit our Display Area at:

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01767 650 615

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39

Pets

Animal Heroes Being a cat foster carer Do you love cats? But, perhaps you feel too old to commit to owning another cat; you might be moving to a new house in the next year; or you’re worried that your job is a bit insecure? If, such reasons have stopped you – then you’re just the type of responsible cat lover that would make a great cat foster carer!

The RSPCA Bedfordshire North branch is a local charity experiencing a crisis in the number of animals that are coming into their care. The amount of animals abandoned, and neglected, has increased by 65% over the last 5 years – and in Bedfordshire, this terrible figure is predominantly made up of cats.

Cats come into our care for a number of reasons.

They may have been neglected by their owners and may need medical attention, they may simply have been abandoned when a person moves house or they may be handed in when their owner feels that they are no longer able to keep them.

The cats may be young and timid, elderly, injured or they may be newborn kittens that need handrearing. They may require fostering for two days, or several months, before they can be re-homed.

The most cost-effective way of temporarily caring for these cats is through a network of volunteer cat foster carers ¬– but we need many more volunteers to help the sheer number of cats requiring our help.

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Could you satisfy your love of cats by becoming a cat foster carer? Angie is just one of our special volunteers. Here is her story: “I’ve been a foster carer for the RSPCA Bedfordshire North branch for a few years now and it’s a very rewarding role. There are always a variety of different animals that need a temporary, loving and caring home. All have their own different personalities and quirks and it’s so nice getting to know them – and know that you’re doing something worthwhile. Kitten season is always exciting, but comes with it’s own problems as there’s always numerous animals that get dumped at this time – from new-born and abandoned kittens that sometimes need hand-rearing, to pregnant cats.

Although it’s always sad to see them go, the best part is getting to see them re-homed – to hopefully move on and have a better and more promising life”.

If you’re interested in becoming a foster carer, please contact us for a chat on 01234 266965 or www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk. We need carers for cats and rabbits in particular, but also dogs and other animals. So, come on – be an animal hero and please give us a call!

ANIMAL HEROES 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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41

Lambourn MOT and Service Centre Ltd Your LOCAL MoT, tyre and service centre in Shefford

01462 811333 Pay us a visit – we’re near Morrisons!

Lambourn MoT & Service Centre Unit 10, Old Bridge Way, Shefford, SG17 5HQ

Quality Peace Of Mind Service Airport Transfer Specialists Up to 8 people travelling Shefford based Email or call us to discuss your needs for any journey, domestic or corporate

Visit: lambournservicecentre.co.uk

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Interior and Exterior Work Free Quotations Call W Firkins & Partners Ltd 01462 814117 or 07939 267083 Est 1981 20 Clifton Road, Shefford, Beds 42

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Russell Grant’s

Horoscopes

AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th Responsibilities at work increase in early August. You actually enjoy presiding over a big project. This would be a wonderful time to go back to education and get an advanced degree.

PISCES February 20th - March 20th The second half of August proves very productive, when you’re able to team up with a creative colleague. The Full Moon on the 29th prompts you to attend to needs that aren’t being met by a partner.

ARIES March 21st - April 20th Resist the urge to rush an intimate relationship in the opening days of August. The Full Moon on the 29th will bring a shocking secret to light.

TAURUS April 21st - May 21st It will be easier to get help from your best friend, lover, or business partner in the early days of August. The New Moon on the 14th could prompt you to make changes to your domestic routine.

GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st Travelling with a group will be lots of fun in the beginning of August. The second half of August is perfect for expanding your home or finding a bigger place to live.

CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd Your self-esteem will be low in the opening days of August. Don’t be surprised if you get a raise or are awarded a lucrative job.

LEO July 24th - August 23rd Resist the urge to talk about your private life with family in the beginning of August. Focus on living beneath your means.

The money you save will sustain you through lean times.

VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd An intimate relationship will give you tremendous pleasure in early August. If you’re not in a relationship, this is the perfect time to find romance. Be sure to negotiate a raise in the second half of August, when your powers of persuasion will be at an all-time high.

LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd A festive party gives early August a glamorous feel. The New Moon on the 14th is perfect for joining a humanitarian organisation.

The Full Moon on the 29th brings a health problem to light.

SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd Prepare to face off with an overambitious authority figure on the 3rd. The second half of August proves quite sociable.

Be sure to attend as many parties as possible.

Spending time with friends helps put your life in a healthier perspective.

SAGITTARIUS November 23rd - December 21st Don’t question your abilities in early August. Your leadership ability will be applauded on the 23rd, when you’re put in charge of an important project. The Full Moon on the 29th prompts you to spend more time on domestic pursuits.

CAPRICORN December 22nd - January 20th Friends will help with heavy responsibilities at the beginning of August.

Opportunities to travel, write and study will arise on or around the 11th. If you get a chance to expand your horizons, seize it.

Please To advertise mention in The TheVillager Villagerand andTownlife Town Life please whencall responding 01767 261122 to adverts

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Alan George Painter & Decorator Interior and Exterior Work Wallpapering and Coving Reliable and Local Specialist City & Guilds trained with 30 years experience Sole trader No VAT Free estimates Call Alan on 01582 454604 Mob:07760198256

1st Glass Window Repairs 30

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FULLY INSURED! Local company who can fix all types of problems with your double glazing, call us now for a free quotation.

Steamed Up Glass Faulty Windows, Door Locks or Hinges Draughty Windows or Doors Leaking Conservatory Roofs Fascias and Gutters New Conservatory Roofs We also supply and fit NEW Windows, Doors and Conservatories

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or E-Mail: george-a6@sky.com

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Under floor Heating Supplies to the trade and public.

Electric & Water systems suitable for any floor covering with lifetime guarantees

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IAN SIMPSON Carpentry and Joinery All aspects of carpentry work undertaken Kitchens, Bedrooms, Doors, Windows

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Food & Drink

Beer at Home

Britain is – in case you hadn’t noticed – in the grip of a so-called craft brewing revolution. In the last decade the number of small independent brewers has grown threefold to nearly 1,500.

Many hop varieties contain exactly the same volatiles that give fruits their individual flavours – farnesene, for instance, which helps give the orange its taste, is also found in many hop strains – but green fruit flavours can be derived from certain combinations of malt; and peardrop-flavoured esters are a by-product of particular fermentation techniques.

This summer, then, I offer you a couple of fruity beers that actually contain no fruit!

Caledonian Deuchar’s IPA at 4.4% abv is almost as pale as lemon, and lemon is the note that dominates the sweetish aroma. The mouthfeel is creamy but the

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By Ted Bruning

palate has a sharp bitterness more reminiscent of grapefruit than anything else. The finish is long and dry with more than a hint of bitter lemon.

In the case of Deuchar’s IPA the fruit character comes from the hop grist of Fuggles, Styrian Goldings, and Willamette, along with a wee bit of wheat in the malt grist. Badger’s Tanglefoot (5% abv) is just as fruity but in a different way. A light gold in colour, the nose is all malt – grassy, biscuit, almost earthy. But berry fruits come through in the soft, rich palate, and there’s more soft fruit in the finish – although whereas the brewery cites flavours of melon and peach, to me it’s more strawberry and blackberry.

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CM ROOFING • Wood Burning Stoves • Multi Fuel Stoves • Chimney Lining • Twin Wall Flue Systems • Installation and Supply • Fireplace Renovations • Stove Accessories • Trade Sales

Family run business Est. 20 yrs • • • • • • • • • • •

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN Friday, Saturday & Monday – 10am—5pm Other Days/Out of hours by prior arrangement

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www.cromwellstoves.co.uk

Cromwell stoves 1/4 page.indd 1

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

10/02/2015 08:33

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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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LOVE YOUR HEATING Love your heating provides all your heating needs from an annual boiler service to a complete new install, for a first class service at a standard rate just call us!

01767 666102 07913 234712 07940 797452

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TOASTY TOES Worcester Bosch Vaillent Ideal Boilers Baxi Glow Worm Potterton Vokera Keston Viessmann Alpha

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Langford, Bedfordshire Love your heating 1/2 page.indd 1

16/06/2015 12:35

Taylor Made Joinery Ltd Traditional Bespoke Joinery

Products and Services Windows | Doors | Staircases | Conservatories | Furniture Oak | Hardwoods | Softwoods | Accoya速 Specialising in Grade listed Heritage joinery

www.taylormadejoineryltd.co.uk info@taylormadejoineryltd.co.uk T: 01462 338 313 M: 07855 834 424 facebook.com/TaylorMadeJoineryLtd Unit C1 Manor Farm, Upper Stondon, Beds, SG16 6LJ

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We are proud to be a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen

17/03/2015 10:20 49

Fully qualiFied — 25 years experienCe

PlumbinG & heatinG ltd

gas

Gas installer Boiler installation with 5 year warranty Boiler breakdown & power flushing Frozen condense pipe rectified Boiler service and landlord certification

water PlumbinG and heatinG

Full heating & bathroom installation Under floor heating Mains pressure upgrades General plumbing work & maintenance

solar solar

Solar thermal for hot water Solar PV installation by MCS approved installers Solar cylinder upgrades & breakdowns

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14 Pear Tree Close, Lower Stondon, Bedfordshire SG16 6ND Email: dave@dhplumb.co.uk Website: www.dhplumb.co.uk

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All Building Services Provided Fully Qualified & Insured Free Local Estimates No Job Too Big Or Small Call James 7 days a week on:

07595 752 466 01462 231 734

JamesBonfieldCarpentry@yahoo.co.uk Shefford, Bedfordshire

• Wallpapering • Interior & Exterior Painting • Murals • Colour & Design Advice Local, Reliable & Professional

T: 01767

220 744 M:07791 438 593 52

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July’s Crossword, Codeword and Suduko Solutions Last Month’s Crossword Winner Pauline Mullarkey from Cambourne

Easy

Hard

A TOUCH OF GLASS Quality UPVC Windows, Doors & Conservatories ALL REPAIRS UNDERTAKEN Broken locks, handles, hinges, replacement misted glass units, catflaps, draughty windows EMERGENCY 24HR CALL OUT SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNT For free advice call Dave today

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The Villager Prize Crossword

Prize

ÂŁ25

Across 1 Make a choice (6) 4 Railings (6) 9 Enlarged (7) 10 Headgear (5) 11 Home planet (5) 12 Citrus fruits (7) 13 Rural area (11) 18 Leaving (7) 20 Answer (5) 22 Devoured (5) 23 Closest (7) 24 Withstand (6) 25 Narrow river (6) Down 2 Singing group (5) 3 Sea mammal (7) 5 Surplus (5) 6 Altered (7)

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

14th August 2015 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP



1 Remove doubt (6)

7 Scarce (6) 8 Supporting (11) 14 Not included (7) 15 Butler or maid (7) 16 Remove (6) 17 Scheme (6) 19 Not outer (5) 21 Portion (5)

Name: Tel: Address:

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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.

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

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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 Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 To Homeworx.indd advertise in The

07/04/2015 15:39 55

James Cullip

Painting & Decorating

• interior/exterior - all aspects • wallpaper hanging • coving • general household maintenance • plastering services available • free estimates • fully insured

References available t: 01462 817 122 m: 07899 888 545 e: go_on_james@hotmail.com www.cullippaintinganddecorating.co.uk 10 Mill Lane, Campton, Shefford, Beds

LOCAL

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n O s ’ t Wha In August 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 22 July-24 November 100 Years of Learning With Ladybird Exhibition British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin Whether you are learning your A, B, Cs today, teaching your own children or seeking a nostalgic journey back to your own childhood, the museum’s extensive collection of Ladybird books will delight and entertain. Come and celebrate the centenary of these much-loved and iconic books at the museum where learning comes to life. See website for opening days and times.

Tel: 01462 420144 www.britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk

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1 August 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 3, 10, 17 24, & 31 August 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.branch-out.org.uk

5 August Educating Teddy 11.10am-3pm, last admission 2pm British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin £3.50 for children 4 and above, Adult admission free Children’s Discovery Day. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Please note the museum is not open for regular museum visits on this date.

Tel: 01462 420144 Website: www.britishschoolsmuseum. org.uk 6, 13, 20 & 27 August Sapphire Social Club 8.30pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin We are a small, friendly social group that caters for the unattached. Our members tend to be around 50+ but we have no age bar. Varied events are organized throughout 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

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n O s ’ t Wha In August 10 August Icknield Quilters 7.15pm for 7.45pm start Baldock Community Centre, Simpson Drive, Baldock Visitors £3 Sewing evening with a focus on Red Work and fabrics on sale from Willian Village Stores. Visitors welcome.

Web: www.icknieldquilters.co.uk 12 August Crafty Capers 11.10am-3pm, last admission 2pm British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin £3.50 for children 4 and above, Adult admission free Children’s Discovery Day. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Please note the museum is not open for regular museum visits on this date.

Tel: 01462 420144 Website: www.britishschoolsmuseum. org.uk 12 August Henlow Branch R N A 7.30pm Community Centre, The Gardens, Henlow The Henlow Branch of The Royal Naval Association meets on the second Wednesday of each month.

Tel: Les Dessent 01767 223212 for further information

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

15 August The V J Day Commemorative Celebrations 7.45pm Meppershall Village Hall Tickets including supper: Members £7, Non-members £10 Meppershall Social club presents the Meppershall Players in “The V J Day Commemorative Celebrations”. Join us for an evening of song and laughter as we relive the festivities at the end of the Second World War. Tickets available in advance only - in person at the social club bar, by phone or email. Tickets must be paid for and collected by 8 August at the latest Tel: 01462 817359 Email: sharon1805@hotmail.co.uk 15-23 August Dr Who Exhibition 10am-2pm - last 1.30pm, Sunday 2-5pm – last admission 4.30pm British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin Admission £2 for all - toddlers, teens, parents and grandparents For nine days life size models of Dr Who characters such as The Ood, Dalek, Zygon, Sontaran and more will be on show in the Lancasterian Schoolroom.

Have a bit of fun and have your photo taken with a Doctor or be “upgraded” to a Cyberman. Sorry no parking on site.

The rest of the Museum will not be open during this time.

Tel: 01462 420144 Website: www.britishschoolsmuseum. org.uk

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26 August Be Creative with Science 11.10am-3pm, last admission 2pm British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin £3.50 for children 4 and above, Adult admission free Children’s Discovery Day. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Please note the museum is not open for regular museum visits on this date.

Tel: 01462 420144 Website: www.britishschoolsmuseum. org.uk 30 August Letchworth to Cambridge Cycle Meet 9.15am, cycle starts 10am, ends approx. 3.15pm Registration £20 per person In aid of Action for Children. A round route of 45 miles taking you from the first built Garden City in England to the beautiful historic town of Cambridge. All cyclists receive a medal at the finish line.

Minimum £30 sponsorship to be raised for Action for Children.

Tel: 0203 745 5514 for more information Web: www.challengecentral.co.uk to register 30 August The Sunday Dance Club 7.30-10.30pm The Spirella Ballroom, Bridge Road, Letchworth Dance to our special ‘Guest Music Provider’. Ballroom, Latin and Popular Sequence. Ample free parking, sprung floor and licensed bar.

Tel: David 01234 300179 59

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 60

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Visit our beautiful

Bathroom Showroom ...With more than 50 displays of bathrooms, furniture & fittings Free in-house 3D design service Quality products from leading manufacturers Experienced staff offering impartial advice Free delivery within a 20 mile radius of our showroom

01438 725309

bathrooms@stevenageplumbing.co.uk www.stevenageplumbing.co.uk

Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS

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61

Books

Book Review

By Bruce Edwards Missing Reels

Aerials and Satellites AERIALS & SATELLITES T/A Broadband Communications Established 1993

Aerials & Satellites • Digital Aerials Freesat & Satellite Installations Commercial IRS Systems All Work Guaranteed • CAI Approved C.1616 Based in Stotfold www.broadbandcommunications.co.uk

Farran Smith Nehme

Pub: Duckworth h/b £16.99 ISBN: 978-0-7156-4990-9 It’s far too easy to stay wrapped up in frothy ‘here today, gone tomorrow’ quick reads taken off the cheapy piles in your nearest chain-store book shop or downloaded at next-to- no cost from one of the ever present e-book providers. So here is something entirely different. Quoted as ‘screwball comedy wedded to a gothic novel’ this has to be taken with the pinch of salt - perhaps so unbelievably impossible and way-out it could only be set against an American backdrop.

Ceinwen - such a nice Welsh name - takes an hour and a half to get ready for an evening out in 1980’s Manhattan, and at the same time becomes involved with Matthew who’s very British.

She goes to the movies, as one does. It’s a life changing act - and to find one missing piece of an ancient reel starts her on a very involved search.

Conversationally rich, descriptive on a frame-byframe basis, it’ll keep you chuckling from end to end, and tell you more about that era than you ever thought possible. As there’s something about proper film that inspires romance, how could she possibly like something that falls into the category of ‘cgi’ - computer generated imagery, i.e. a digitalised production? Early cellulose can be a very difficult film stock to handle - but our expert author does it very well. Worth searching for.

Tel: 01462 732 628 • Mob: 07860 436 217

Carpentry and Joinery

Tim Jordon

Carpentry and Joinery Made to measure quality timber products supply and fit.

Doors, Windows, Stairs, Gates, Kitchen Worktops, Wood staining, painting and varnishing Station Road, Lower Stondon, Beds.

Tel: 01462 850363 or 07544 790071

Cleaning Services

Electricians

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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Classifieds Florist

Property Maintenance R. CHAPMAN

Home & Garden Services

Patio’s Driveways Fencing Brickwork Painting & Decorating Tiling 20 Years Experience - No Job Too Small!

01462 850575 or 07950 311881

Removals

Pet Services

MUSCLE & MOTOR Jumbo van with up to 3 men.

Helpful, efficient and friendly service for all your moving, carrying, and domestic disposal needs, including house and garage clearance.

Call Richard on: 01767 317387 or 07968 787496 Email: muscleandmotor@gmail.com www.muscleandmotor.co.uk

Plastering Services

Removals and Storage

James Geekie Plastering All types of plastering - big or small Interior/Exterior Work Undertaken Re-skim Rooms, Walls, Artex & Ceilings Dry Lining and Screeding Tel: 07792 415356 or 01462 490598 Email: james.geekie@hotmail.co.uk

• House and office moves • Large and small vehicles • Local/long distance and overseas removals • Containerised storage • Extremely high quality customer service Call for a no obligation quotation

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Plastering Services Lawes Plastering

removals, storage, archive and shipping

Van Hire

Experienced local plasterer based in Gravenhurst.

Quality workmanship, clean and tidy

Contact • Plastering Paul on • Coving 07731 649628 • Artex

3/12/12 11:44:54

Chris’ Man & Van

For hire

Collections, Deliveries, Light Haulage...anything considered.

Cheap rates Please call for further details

07747 828259 / 01525 754218

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