Potton june 15

VILLAGER The

Issue 106 - June 2015

and Town

Life

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

Inside this issue

Win Tickets to see Parklife

Franklin’s Cider

Win £25 in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People

in Biggleswade, Sandy, Potton, Gamlingay and all surrounding villages 11,000 copies delivered to over 30 towns and villages every month To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

ur Yo EE FRcopy

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Contents Bedfordshire Growers

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Three Counties Asylum...............................................................4 Knowing Your Consumer Rights.................................................8 Franklin’s Cider.........................................................................10 Much Ado About Nothing.........................................................13 From Poldark to Pen.................................................................14 The Bliss of Diss........................................................................16 A Beautiful New You.................................................................18 Beer of the Month....................................................................21 Potton Art Group......................................................................23 Sandy Tourist Information........................................................25 Father’s Day..............................................................................28 Wrest Park - Archaeological Collections....................................31 Why Walk When You Can Run?.................................................33 Bedfordshire Growers...............................................................34 The Villager Bookshop..............................................................37 Wordsearch..............................................................................39 Win Tickets to see Parklife........................................................40 Summer Solstice......................................................................43 Top Tips for Fundraisers and Charities.......................................44 Fun Quiz...................................................................................47 Editorial - Richard Knight, Jonathan Vernon-Smith, Catherine Rose, Tim Saunders, Ted Bruning, Nooshin Hassan, Sarah Fryer, Pippa Greenwood, Geoff Wharton, RSPB, Andy Mydellton, Russell Grant, Potton Vets, James Baggott and Bruce Edwards Advertising Sales/Local Editorial

Nigel Frost - 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com Photography Sergey Novikovand Darren Harbar Photography Design and Artwork - Design 9 Tel 07762 969460

VILLAGER The

Issue 106 - June 2015

and Town

Life

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

Inside this issue

Win Tickets to see Parklife

Franklin’s Cider

Win £25 in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People

in Biggleswade, Sandy, Potton, Gamlingay and all surrounding villages 11,000 copies delivered to over 30 towns and villages every month To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

ur Yo EE FRcopy

Happy 20th Birthday Harpers...................................................48 Making a Pest of Themselves....................................................50 Rural Ramblings.......................................................................53 Beeston Open Gardens.............................................................54 Butterfly Reincarnations..........................................................56 Russell Grant’s Horoscopes.......................................................58 Ask Alan - Potton Vets..............................................................61 Animal Know-How...................................................................62 Children’s Page.........................................................................64 Biggleswade Sandy Lions Club.................................................66 Top 5 Eco Cars...........................................................................69 Seasonal Delights.....................................................................72 What’s On.................................................................................74 Fancy a Home Swap Holiday....................................................79 Puzzle Page..............................................................................80 Last Month’s Puzzle Solutions..................................................85 Prize Crossword........................................................................86 Book Review............................................................................92

Butterfly Reincarnation

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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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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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Bedfordshire’s Premier Kitchen

& Bedroom Showroom Since 1974 We would like to welcome you to our new showroom at:

The Old White Horse, 1 High Street, Biggleswade SG18 0JE

Tel: 01767 314344 Email: dave@lolineinteriors.co.uk Web: lolineinteriors.co.uk

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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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‘EUROVISION’ REVISITED

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF EUROVISION

16 AUGUST 2015 AT SHUTTLEWORTH Old Warden Aerodrome, Bedfordshire, SG18 9EP FEATURING THE ORIGINAL RECORDING ARTISTS: Bobby G’s Bucks Fizz

Brotherhood of Man

&

TRIBUTES TO: Abba The Shadows

Lulu

Cliff Richard

Please note: These acts are tributes performing classic hits, not the actual group or performer.

Disclaimer - All information is accurate at time of publishing. Any act advertised is not guaranteed, as event is subject to weather and conditions beyond our control.

Sandie Shaw

BOOK NOW - www.shuttleworth.org/musicevent Pods Available Call:

01767 627933 (M-F, 9-5)

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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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IMPACT INTERIORS AND FLOORING HENLOW

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Licenced partners with S:CRAFT 1

19/05/2015

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The barbecue is back!

Come rain or shine, we’ll be barbecuing every summer Sunday 12 noon–3pm.

Our chefs will be cooking up delicious cuts of meat, served at your table with tasty salads.

And we’ve got Pimm’s and craft beer on ice.

Starting on Sunday 14 June To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

Day off for dad Book your table now for our Father’s Day barbecue, Sunday 21 June.

01767 260221

www.coachhousepotton.co.uk

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Local News

Franklin’s Cider

Bedfordshire’s Newest Cider Maker

Some of you may have downed a pint or two of Dunton Cider over the last few years. This was a small, hobby scale operation producing cider in the village of Dunton for sale through local pubs and beer festivals. In 2013 Simon Bailes, half of the team responsible for Dunton Cider was made redundant after twenty years working in the waste industry and made the decision to turn making cider into a full time job and the process of scaling up production began. In January 2014 Franklin’s Cider was established (Franklin is one of Simon’s middle names) and the first sixteen tonnes of apples were sourced, pressed and fermentation started in the Cidery at Church Farm Dunton. In the autumn of 2014 a further forty tonnes of apples were procured and the cider from these apples is now maturing nicely.

The principles of Franklin’s Cider are simple. Simon uses locally sourced apples to produce cider from 100% fresh apple juice (no concentrates or added flavourings) to be sold into local markets. He is very keen to generate public involvement by getting people to pick apples and to bring them to the cidery to be swapped for cider or apple juice. As we get into the autumn of 2015 and your apples start to ripen give Simon a shout (details below) and he will talk you through how to get your apples to the cidery. If you have a large number of apple trees, a remnant of an old orchard, perhaps, Simon may be

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able to arrange for the apples to be picked.

If you fancy learning how to make cider Simon is also offering a number of cider making courses in the autumn where you can learn all of the basics of selecting apples, pressing them and then fermenting the resulting juice. Details can be found on the website.

Simon is also happy to show people around the cidery or to give presentations to local group. If you would be interested in visiting the cidery or booking a presentation, give Simon a call or drop him an e mail.

Also, don’t forget the Dunton Wassail which takes place every January where Simon combines his love for cider with his other passion, folk music, and holds a celebration of music and cider in the orchard at Church farm, Dunton. This is a free event (details are on the Dunton Folk web site, www. duntonfolk.co.uk) and is open to all the family. It involves morris dancing, mulled cider, wassailing the apple trees, a mummers play and a music session in the March Hare pub. A fantastic evening!

The cidery is licensed for sale of cider to the public so if you want to pick some up, give Simon a ring and he will arrange to meet you at the cidery. You can have a look round while collecting your cider.

Simon can be contacted on 01767 310 424, franklinscider@outlook.com or via the Franklin’s Cider website www.franklinscider.co.uk.

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Local News

Much Ado About Nothing To see it all played out before your very eyes, why not come along to:

Kenneth B move over, foresooth Sophie W is in town with her BATS crew ready to perform her own interpretation of The Bard’s, Much Ado About Nothing.

Over the past few months BATS have been rehearsing and fundraising their socks off to bring to Biggleswade a Casino themed Much Ado, with it’s villains and lovers using honour, shame and politics, not to say much confusion and comedy, to stage this robust play.

Weatherly Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade 12th & 13th June @ 7:30pm Tickets £10 from Howells Newsagents, Hitchin Street, Biggleswade or at www.ticketsource.co.uk/bats

Adoption information evenings: First Wednesday of every month At our Milton Keynes and Peterborough offices - see website for details

Adoption Connections

Many children are currently in care and need a new family… could you be that family?

St. Francis’ Children’s Society is a voluntary adoption agency, rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.

We welcome all kinds of adopters for all kinds of children, regardless of age, race, cultural background, religion, marital status or sexual orientation.

www.sfcs.org.uk enquiries@sfcs.org.uk

Connecting the Adoption Circle Registered Charity No. 211670

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Milton Keynes: Peterborough:

01908 572700 01733 475581

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Local News

From Poldark to Pen Many will have lamented the end of the new lauded series of BBC’s Poldark. Despite playing the part of Doctor Choake, whose curmudgeonly bedside manner left a lot to be desired, in person, actor Robert Daws is warm, friendly and modest, particularly as it turns out he is also a talented writer.

He is currently helping to organise the second annual Ampthill Literary Festival which takes place on 11th July at Parkside Hall with headline guest stars Barry Norman, Jenny Éclair, and actor John Challis (best known for his role as Boycie in Only Fools and Horses).

Festival fringe events began at the end of April with ‘Beer & Books’ when Robert took to the stage with actor wife Amy Robbins at Ampthill Cricket Pavilion to perform an extract from local author P.J. Whiteley’s new romantic comedy, Close of Play. Robert will be acting as Master of Ceremonies at the event itself and his brotherin-law, the well-known Ted Robbins, will be coming along to award prizes for the children’s festival and writing competition which takes place in the morning.

Robert, who lives in Ampthill, published his first bestselling crime novel, The Rock in 2012.

He became interested in crime fiction while co-writing and presenting the detective series Trueman and Riley for Radio 4. The Rock is set on Gibraltar, a place that Robert has been visiting for 25 years and knows well. He explains: “It has the second oldest police force after the London Met and I thought it was an interesting setting for a crime novel.”

The novels centre around Detective Sergeant Tamara Sullivan who finds herself knee-deep in murder mystery when she is seconded by the London Metropolitan Police Service to Gibraltar.

Robert has been able to find plenty of time to write on location while acting as there is a lot of “waiting around”. He also admits: “Now that I’m older and have a young family, there are many acting jobs I would rather not do and I am lucky enough to be able to pick and choose.”

Expected to be launched mid- autumn, Robert’s second novel, The Poisoned Rock, opens during WWII. “Gibraltar was a small, crucially strategic

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By Catherine Rose

piece of territory during the war,” says Robert “and there was a lot of agent activity going on.”

The plot is based on a wartime case that has repercussions on the present day.

Despite being a writer, Robert’s own literary achievements at the festival will be kept low key. “Actually, the thing I really enjoy is the technical side: the sound, lights and stage building” he confesses.

Robert is currently in the midst of having the second book in his detective series published and is already halfway through writing the third. “I have enough stories for ten books!” He laughs and adds that “things are progressing very creatively” on the television front.

For more information on Ampthill Literary Festival and how to attend, please visit www.amplitfest.co.uk

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The Unforgettable Close Up and Cabaret Magic of Steve Dean Immerse yourselves and guests in the close up magic of Steve Dean or enjoy a Cabaret Show that includes mentalism and much more.

Have you ever witnessed unexplainable events or illusions so convincing that they leave you fascinated and completely spellbound?

This is Cabaret, close up mix and mingle and table magic at it’s very best.

Not only enter the unbelievable world of close up professional magic that is second to none, you can now see a cabaret show that will leave you gasping, your guests enthralled and audience participation that is not only professional but will cause laughter throughout and will be something to remember for a very long time.

This is ideal for any corporate or private event.

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

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

Winner of Wedding Industry Expert Awards 2013-2014 To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Travel

The Bliss of Diss

By Tim Saunders “Yes, it will be bliss, to go with you by train to Diss.”

– A Mind’s Journey by Sir John Betjeman Norfolk is full of success stories. During our stay at Fritton Lake Lodges in North Norfolk, we discover Lord Somerleyton’s estate was purchased by carpet manufacturer Sir Francis Crossley in 1863 and has been in the family ever since, partly made possible through funding from 80 self-catering lodges set in 250 acres, some available for purchase.

We stay in a three-bed lodge with views of the lake.

There is also an outdoor centre, a pub and hotel and it is possible to visit Somerleyton Hall, a wedding venue. The lodges certainly provide a good base for becoming better acquainted with Nelson’s county - born on 29th September 1758 to a prosperous family in Burnham Thorpe near Great Yarmouth.

At Diss, we meet artist John Atkinson at his studio with little dog Treacle. “You get a lot for your money here,” says John, who relocated from London eight years ago. “It’s only about an hour and half from the capital.”

This has allowed him to hire a London chef for his latest venture, a restaurant at The Boilerhouse in Cobbs Yard to complement the delicatessen he already runs. John will be exhibiting his industrial themed paintings there.

We can see why Norfolk appeals to the artist, not least because of the large skies and flat landscape.

The magical compositions of Nicholas Simington, another artist from Old Buckenham, focus on people. He studied at Glasgow School of Art and we drop in on him and his wife Barbara to see his latest picture.

Fish and Chips at The Bell Inn At Norwich, we visit the castle, which dates back to 1096 and is constructed of flint and mortar faced with a cream coloured Caen limestone. The cathedral was eventually completed in 1145.

We also spend a day at Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens in Great Yarmouth where we are all mesmerised by the crocodiles in the swamp house. It is pleasing to see that the animals are given room to roam and the Sumatran Tiger truly captures our daughters’ attentions. Mazes provide yet more entertainment and the Chinese Willow Pattern Garden, complete with suspended wooden bridges, is a joy to walk around.

At Hoveton, Wroxham - the gateway to the Norfolk Broads - we find Wroxham Miniature World: an award winning attraction which really does reinvigorate the model train enthusiast in us all. Our favourite exhibit is the Japanese railway complete with cuttings from Japanese newspapers. Aside from the beautiful dolls houses are toy collections of yesteryear including Sooty, Smurfs, the Magic Roundabout, roller skates and Sindy.

On the way back, we stop off at the National Trust’s Wimpole Estate to enjoy a walk around historic Wimpole Hall, which dates back to 1640, and some of its 3,000 acres of land and gardens. Harriett and Heidi practise milking at Home Farm, sit on a tractor and see pigs, cows, lambs and Shire horses.

What more could you fit into a week?

Crocodiles at Thrigby Hall

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A Beautiful New You! Cleopatra Beauty and Cambridge Weight Plan Consultancy, run by Glenn Hermans and Neil Paris, officially opened in King Street, Potton in February.

Catherine Rose visited the smart new premises to find out more about their unique transformational skills for a new you “inside and out”.

Glenn Hermans and his partner Neil Paris know about losing weight. Before and after photographs in the reception area and on the pavement board of Cleopatra Beauty Consultancy show the couple’s combined weight loss of 15 stone on the Cambridge Weight Plan. Their success won them Cambridge Weight Plan’s ‘Couple of the Year’ award in 2014 and a week in New York. Glenn was so inspired, he became a Cambridge Weight Plan consultant at the end of April 2014.

“The Cambridge Weight Plan is a great company and franchise to work with” explains Glenn. “They value everyone and reward effort and success.”

Clients who take up the plan with them can expect a high level of discrete one-to-one service and a wide selection of slimming products.

Weighing and measuring sessions (which are weekly, or more if required) are free; you only pay for products. “I am

dedicated to my clients” says Glenn. “Cambridge consultants know all the excuses dieters come up with because we have been there.”

Currently Glenn has 56 people on the plan.

Following an initial free consultation where a personal medical form is completed, Glenn records height, weight, BMI and body measurements and each client is given their own progress card.

The Cambridge Weight Plan works via a ‘steps’ programme. “Depending on how much you have to lose - and what is medically and personally achievable for the client - we may start you on step one: the sole source diet which is totally product-based” says Glenn. “As you lose weight, you move through the steps and food is gradually re-introduced. By the time you reach step six, you no longer need products but can come in for free checks to maintain your new weight.”

Glenn, who is fluent in five languages, has worked in the beauty industry for 21 years. He originally trained as a nurse in his native Belgium while also completing a beautician’s degree, offering beauty treatments in tandem with nursing and later, his tour guide work. After travelling for a while, he settled in the UK with the aim of doing something he believed in and enjoyed. At the time, he was overweight and a smoker.

Through the Cambridge Weight Plan, Glenn learned that over-eating is an addictive behaviour. As a result, the plan can help with other addictions too, so Glenn was also able to reduce smoking.

By Catherine Rose 18

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It seemed the ideal way forward to set up a company that combined both weight loss and beauty. The couple began the company at home with Glenn acting as weight loss/beauty consultant and Neil working in IT, taking over from Glenn when necessary. Glenn has since completed diplomas in microdermabrasion and tooth whitening and is constantly updating his training to keep abreast of the latest developments in the slimming and beauty world.

Their current premises in King Street became available at the end of December 2014.

Originally a dog grooming salon, Glenn and Neil needed to do a lot of work to turn it into the bright, professional yet welcoming suite of rooms they have today. “As a start-up business, you can’t afford to spend a lot of money” says Glenn “so we did everything ourselves, with help from our landlord, including making the curtains”.

The grand opening was on 20th February 2015.

“Potton is a great place to be - everyone knows each other and people who come here are motivated” explains Glenn.

Beauty treatments offered at the salon include tooth whitening (at a lower rate than many dental surgeries), facials and microdermabrasion, eyelash extensions, spray tanning and electro therapies that stimulate muscles and tighten loose skin – ideal as a partner treatment for those who are on the Cambridge Weight Plan. “We suggest an initial course of 12 treatments, twice a week, dropping down to once every two weeks” says Glenn.

“Half an hour on the electrotherapy machine is equivalent to four hours in the gym so the results are much better.”

The company has now begun stocking professional hair products by CHI and NICKA K make-up which Glenn says compares favourably with other brands such as MAC. “You can’t get these products in the UK but they are in professional hair and beauty salons across Europe” he says.

The make-up is impressive. The mineral powder has enough coverage to use as a foundation, and the eyeshadows are highly pigmented, so you only need to use a little, and blend well. The eyeliners are bright, glossy and completely smudge-proof.

The high quality lipsticks and lip lacquers are densely-coloured, lasting for 12 hours. And Mood

Photographs by Darren Harbar Photography Lipsticks (at £3.90 each) create a shade unique to you. For example, a bright blue lipstick, when applied to my skin, turned a beautiful pinkish-lilac colour, while becoming a different shade on a female consultant who was there. You certainly need lots of cleanser to remove them! Combined with their fine-tipped lip liners, the result is a perfect model-style pout.

“If you use our products in the morning, you can be confident you are good for the day” says Glenn.

A trained make-up artist, Glenn is happy to give pre-bookable make-up parties that demonstrate skin care as well.

Cleopatra Beauty Consulting and Cambridge Weight Plan opening times are: Mon – 2-6pm Tue to Fri – 9-6pm Sat – 9-4pm Sun – 9-12pm (by appointment only) If you require an appointment outside those times, Glenn will accommodate you.

Currently Glenn is offering 25% off all Cambridge Weight Loss Plan second week’s products, and during the first week, you will receive samples that help you to stay on plan.

Glenn Hermans Cleopatra Beauty and CWP Consulting

58 King Street, Potton SG19 2QZ Tel: 01234 862100 or 07412 119013 Email: glenn.hermans71@gmail.com Facebook: glenn herman’s independent weight plan consultant

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Potton & District Club NEW MEMBERS WELCOME. Keeping LIVE MUSIC live! every week!

JUNE

Saturday 6th June - Chilled Out (the chilled side of reggae, with a cool vibe) Saturday 13th June - Bu-Bounce (are back Ska Madness) Saturday 20th June - The Kopy Katz (are back wild & fun rockabilly) Saturday 27th June - Easy Livin (spanning 5 decades of classic tunes female vocals)

JULY

Saturday 4th July - Soul Reason Saturday 11th July - Fuel (old school tunes) Saturday 18th July - Iron Fist (loving Glam rock) Saturday 25th July - Back Beat (talented trio full of surprises) All information is provided in good faith, always check the web page pottonclub.co.uk for changes/updates.

Potton CIU Club, Charities Hall, Station Road, Potton Tel: 01767 261465 (Evenings) Website: www.pottonclub.co.uk 20

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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.

Lager: The Story of the World’s Favourite Beer by Ted Bruning, is available on Kindle price £3.54

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21

Have you considered

fostering?

At Children First Fostering Agency we are currently recruiting caring individuals who want to make a difference to a child or young person’s life.

In return you will receive professional ongoing training, 24 hour support, respite breaks and a generous fostering allowance.

If you are interested in fostering and have a spare room for a child, please contact us at:

www.cffa.co.uk 0808 178 1144 Text FOSTER14 to 88020 with your full name

It’s Party Time @ The Eco Hub Children’s parties from £9.50 per child.

Includes: • • •

3 1/2 hours hire Cold finger buffet with unlimited squash Choose from: Bouncy Castle, Soft Play, Face Painting, Football or a Craft Party

BOOK NOW The Eco Hub Stocks Lane Gamlingay SG19 3JR

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Tel: 01767 651226 Manager: 07980 612077 Manager@eco-hubinfo www.eco-hub.info

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Local News

Potton Art Group Potton Art Group meets in St. Mary’s church hall in Potton on Wednesday mornings where an enthusiastic band of painters of mixed abilities - beginners, improvers and more experienced painters - work hard to improve their skills in a friendly and constructive atmosphere.

There is ongoing advice and helpful guidance for members, individually, on basic drawing, materials and watercolour techniques from an experienced artist. There are occasional demonstrations, and subject matter is always supplied, but members are also encouraged to pursue their own individual projects – and most do!

Members have the opportunity to exhibit their work in their annual spring exhibition which gives a useful focus to their endeavors, but equally enjoyable is the annual Christmas dinner!

The atmosphere at meetings is very relaxed with nonstop tea and coffee on hand and members are encouraged to circulate to view other

members’ work in a completely co-operative and encouraging atmosphere. (And we all like to talk about our work!) There is easy parking on site and new members are always welcome.

Full details of term times and fees can be obtained from Pauline Russell on 01767 260103.

The Royal Oak Freshly prepared food

Tuesday to Saturday lunch 12-2.30pm Tuesday to Saturday evening 6pm to 9pm Sunday lunch 12-4pm Biggleswade Road, Potton | 01767 261888 | www.theroyaloak-potton.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

23

Professional Balloon art and Event decoration Beautifully arranged balloon clusters, arches, columns and more Delivery and set up available Like us on Facebook for portfolio and special offers

07792 985994 or 01767 223675 bunchesballoons@hotmail.co.uk www.bunchesballoons.co.uk 24

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Local News

Sandy Tourist

Information Centre Come and visit the new Sandy Information Centre which has opened in the offices of Sandy Town Council. The Centre is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am - 2pm. Please see details of the Centre’s address and contact details below.

We hold a wide range of local attraction leaflets with ideas for days out and if you require a brochure relating to another part of the country we can order this for you. We also hold information about local transport and the latest train and bus timetables.

Wel have copies of the London Planner and the London Theatre Guide for Sandy’s many visitors to the capital.

We have a large selection of local Walk leaflets to enable local people or Sandy’s many walking visitors to walk in this areas beautiful countryside. We will be agents for Safford’s so you we will be able to book for the many day excursions or holidays they undertake.

From the new Information Centre and Reception there will be access to the Roman Sandy Exhibition and if you have never visited this display it is well worth a visit. These exhibits were mostly collected following archaeological digs in the town’s cemetery between 1988 and 1991. The collection includes coins, vessels, personal and household effects and stone sculpture. Group visits may be made by arrangement and schools are especially welcome The Information Centre will be undertaking local Guided Walks during the summer and local history Autumn/Winter Talks GUIDED WALKS The first Guided Walk A TOUR AROUND SOUTHILL HOUSE took place on the 13th May. This was initially arranged as a morning tour, but such was the interest and the demand that we also had an afternoon tour on that same day, thus over 100 people were able to enjoy the beauty of this magnificent house and gardens.

The second Guided Walk is called the COFFIN WALK and this takes place on Monday, 22nd June.

Beeston is now part of the ancient parish of Sandy.

However, it used to be regarded as part of Northill. In 1305 there was an agreement between the parishes of Sandy and Northill that certain houses listed in the parish of Northill owed their tithes to Sandy and the inhabitants ought to go to Sandy church to receive sacraments and be buried. However, a large number of medieval Beeston residents were

buried in Northill and the route of the ‘Coffin Walk’ follows the way taken by the cortege from Beeston to Northill.

It is a very interesting and beautiful walk, including an avenue of mixed broadleaf trees and a nature reserve. There are a number of information Boards along the walk about the history of farming in the area and the wild life to look out for.

The walk starts from the Town Council Offices in Cambridge Road and then proceeds along the High Street, Ivel Road and the Sandcast bridleway with its riverside meadows and woodland. The walk then continues along the Baulk, passing the Victorian Methodist Chapel. We will then cross the A1 by the footbridge and follow the route of the Greensand Ridge Walk, crossing Beeston’s beautiful village green which is surrounded by properties of various ages.

We will then walk along footpaths crossing Beeston’s agricultural fields, cross over the Sandy-Shefford Road and continue to the village of Northill. The parish Church of St. Mary the Virgin stands at the heart of the village and overlooks many of the early dwellings, the pub, the Green & pond, creating a scene virtually untouched by the 20th century. We will visit the parish church and look around the interior with its famous large panels of stained glass commissioned by the Company of Grocers 1664.

The walk will then continue along the same route back to Beeston and Sandy. We will meet outside the offices of Sandy Town Council, 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy at 10am. The cost of the Guided Walk is £5.50 per person (payable on booking please).

The third Guided Walk takes place on Tuesday, 21st July and is called THE TEMPSFORD WALK – Part II Last year local resident and historian of Tempsford, Mr Steve Cooney gave a guided walk of the Church End part of the village when we saw and heard about such places as Gannocks Castle, the parish church, the Millennium Garden and the Tempsford Museum and Archive.

Now Steve will take us around and speak about the interesting buildings on the Station Road part of the village. Buildings in this road date from all periods many dating from the seventeenth century.

Station Road was once a throbbing and vibrant community, with shops, pubs, butchers, drapers and blacksmiths etc. We will also visit Tempsford Hall, once the family seat of the Payne and Stuart families

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25

and the long lost Tempsford Railway Station which brought many military personnel and SOE agents to the nearby famous Tempsford Airfield, including the King and the Queen.

Meet at the entrance to Station Road (parking on the left hand side of the road) at 7pm.

The cost of the Guided Walk is £5.50 per person (payable on booking please).

In August, this year’s fourth guided Walk is a ‘GUIDED WALK AROUND OLD WARDEN VILLAGE’ and this takes place on Thursday, 6th August.

In 2014 local historian Christine Hill, sponsored by the recent Heritage Lottery funded restoration of the Swiss Garden, Old Warden, published ‘Old Warden, Tales of Tenants & Squires’. This wonderful book traces the fascinating history of the village, its inhabitants and their relationship with the estates owners, the Ongley and Shuttleworth families from the eighteenth century to the early twentieth century.

Christine will lead this new and very interesting walk around this delightful village where we will see and hear about its historic and picturesque buildings, and its people. Old Warden stands amongst wooded countryside and is a good example of an estate village. Many of the cottages are of 17th or 18th century origin and were built in a variety of styles.

However during the early part of the 19th century they were all modified or rebuilt in a picturesque style by the 3rd Lord Ongley.

The 12th century church of St Leonard is decorated inside with a substantial amount of carved woodwork collected from the Low Countries by Lord Ongley and installed in 1841/2, and here Christine will recount a fascinating story village folklore surrounding some of the woodwork. and here Christine will recount a fascinating story village folklore surrounding some of the woodwork.

We will meet in the car park of St Leonard’s Church, Old Warden, at 10.00am. The cost of the Guided Walk is £5.50 per person (payable on booking please).

The final walk of the year is part of the Bedfordshire Walking Festival and is called the ‘SANDY WARREN, HEATH AND QUARRY WALK’. This Walk will take place in September - details to follow.

AUTUMN AND WINTER TALKS There will be three Talks this year and they will all be held in the Sandy Baptist Church Hall and the cost will be £5.50 per person..

In October there will be a Talk by David Fowler, who for the past two years has given Talks about Cardington and the Airship industry. This year he will give a Talk titled BEDFORDSHIRE HEROES. This will include the lives of Sir Joseph Paxton, the famous gardener and designer of the Crystal Palace who was born at Milton Bryan, Frederick Burnaby who was a famous army officer and traveller who once crossed the English Channel in a hot air balloon and who was born in Bedford and Captain Sir William Peel,

26

Sandy’s famous naval hero who was one of the first recipients of the Victoria Cross and builder of the Sandy to Potton railway.

This Talk will take place on Tuesday, 6th October at 7.30pm In November Colin McCartney of Broom will give a Talk entitled CONCORDE - AN INSIDE STORY. Colin recounts his experiences while working on the design team of Concorde – the only Super Sonic Transport (SST) to be designed and go into worldwide service. There are a few talks based on the experiences of flying in Concorde by crew members, but this is the only presentation describing how the aircraft came into being.

The first part of the Talk is a short history of manmade flights from the Kongming Lantern to the first super-sonic flight by Chuck Jaeger. The next section covers the early SST specification and some of the amusing problems that emerged during the early design phase. Colin then describes his design work on the “Droop Snoop” nose section at BAe in Stevenage including the materials and manufacturing challenges. Colin will pass round samples of the materials used together with a piece of the nose section.

The final section of Colin’s talk deals with the “End of an Era” following the fatal crash in Paris and the results of the subsequent enquiry. Throughout the talk reference is made to Sir Isaac Newton. All will be revealed why!

This Talk will take place on Monday, 2nd November at 7.30pm In December Bernard O’Connor returns to Sandy to give a new Talk called TRAINING TO BE A SECRET AGENT DURING THE SECOND WORLD WAR. During the Second World War several thousand secret agents of many nationalities, including over eighty women, were infiltrated into occupied Europe on special operations. If you think you had (or still have) what it takes to be a special agent, local historian, Bernard O’Connor, will provide an illustrated talk on the training they received. Many of these agents, once briefed for their missions, were brought to RAF Tempsford and flown out on the nights either side of the full moon to undertake top secret work in the Allies attempt to defeat the enemy.

If you require any further information regarding the Walks or Talks or the Information Centre please do not hesitate to contact us This Talk will take place on Monday, 7th December at 7.30pm SANDY INFORMATION CENTRE, SANDY TOWN COUNCIL, 10 CAMBRIDGE ROAD, SANDY BEDFORDSHIRE SG19 1AX Tel 01767 681491 info@sandytowncouncil gov.uk

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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,

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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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APampering ROM ATICS & Beauty Holistics

KIM HOLLOWAY HYPNOTHERAPY

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THE BEST KEPT SECRET IN WRESTLINGWORTH!

The salon is smart enough to be in Cambridge, walk through the door and your reaction is likely to be ‘wow’!

Lottie, the owner, has over 20 years experience cutting, colouring and styling hair so whether you want something very special for a party, a great carefree cut or stunning colour, Loox is the place to come to.

Your look may be traditional or funky - pop in or give us a call to book, we are open five days a week plus late nights on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

51a High Street, Wrestlingworth SG19 2EP FREE PARKING

appointed salon

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0845 034 5955 29

Tranquil Sea Tai Chi (yang style) Tai Chi is a gentle form of exercise suitable for all ages and genders, with its gentle pace and low impact movements it can be learnt by virtually anyone. Tai Chi is a holistic approach to wellness including Mind, Body, and Spirit.

Beginners are always welcome at any of our classes, just come along or contact Gary for a informal chat.

Classes: Lt Gransden village Hall, Primrose Hill, Lt Gransden SG19 3DP. Mondays (from 5th Jan) 9-30-10-30 am.

The Plough, 77 Church St, Langford, Biggleswade SG18 9QA. Sundays (from 4th Jan) 10-30-11-30 am.

For more info contact Gary on 07758232068 or 01462 701701 Tranquilsea13@gmail.com

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Local News

Almost 1,000 visitors have ventured into the Aladdin’s cave of archaeological collections at

Wrest Park

Last May, English Heritage gave visitors to Wrest Park in Bedfordshire the opportunity to go beyond the grounds and discover an Aladdin’s cave of wonder, as a warehouse containing over 153,000 historical artefacts, spanning over 2,000 years of England’s history opened its doors to the public with special monthly tours and pre-bookable group tours. Now, a year on, following such a great success with almost 1,000 visitors through the Archaeological Collections Store doors, the team of volunteers who lead the tours are pleased to announce a new season of events.

Just as before, visitors will have the opportunity on the first Monday of every month[*] at 11am and 2pm, to journey through history in one location discovering collections as varied as pre-historic antlers and Roman bridges to Victorian banisters and roof beams. As they discover how English Heritage care for these unique finds – great and small – so that future generations can appreciate them.

New for this year, on July 20, August 17 and September 21 there will be a ‘Roman Special’ tour taking visitors back 2000 years to explore fascinating artefacts from Wroxeter, Britain’s fourth largest Roman city. This unique event will enable visitors to experience items from the collections not normally on display, from everyday items such as Roman coins, jewellery and pottery, to artefacts reflecting the architectural scale of the city.

Then on July 6 and September 7 there will be a Twilight Tour at 5pm for those who may have not been previously able to attend due to work commitments.

The English Heritage archaeological collections store contains a vast array of items ranging

from the small; buckles, brooches and coins, to fireplaces, doors and even an enormous crane used for changing street light bulbs in Covent Garden.

This treasure trove - which adds up to a third of English Heritage’s total stored collection contains archaeological pieces unearthed at sites around the country, including Wroxeter Roman Site, Haughmond Abbey in Shropshire and Elizabethan Kirby Hall in Northamptonshire.

The store is also now home to more than 6,000 objects from London houses, which map the capital’s architecture from the 17th to the 19th centuries. Part of this collection includes nearly 1,000 wallpapers. The wallpapers, in particular, have found their ideal home, for Wrest Park boasts its own rare wall coverings in the De Grey family mansion (also available to visit on a pre-bookable guided tour on the first Sunday of every month) and this great wealth of material is now much easier for researchers to access.

Charlotte Newman, English Heritage Curator said “we have been thrilled over the past year to see how many visitors have wanted to see behind the scenes in the store and share in our enthusiasm and passion for looking after our collections not normally on display and we are pleased to continue the tours for this year and also introduce some additional tours with new content for anyone who would like to revisit and discover even more!”

The tours running at the Archaeological Collections Store and of the Wallpaper Rooms are just an extra £3 per person on top of standard admission to the House and Gardens. A tour can be booked on the day on a first-come, first-served basis or can be prebooked by calling reception on 01525 860000.

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31

to start pprentice g soon a n a r fo g w lookin be startin We’re no iews will v r e t in r, e this summ

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Well Being

Why walk when you can run?

By Nooshin Hassan

Ok, I did it. I signed up for a running race. I only have myself to blame.

Being a novice runner (and that’s a generous description) my motivation was not the love of the sport.

My decision was fuelled by the desire to raise money for a charity that didn’t involve shaving my head or dousing myself in ice. A small part of me also felt it would be good to set myself a new kind of challenge.

So now I am ‘in training’ (that sounds far too professional versus the reality) for the Great Yorkshire Run where I will be raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society. It’s a 10k race, which might not seem much compared to the marathon-sized efforts of many people today, but it’s the longest distance I’ve ever run. This is not just about improving my fitness or the race itself; I’ve made a commitment to support a greater cause something to remember when the going gets tough. And I’m hoping that my once-a-week yoga has helped….

Tips from a non-pro runner: •

•

• •

Get some decent trainers. You don’t need expensive gait analysis (although that might be what you want).

Stretch! I suffered the consequences of not bothering and it was PAINFUL so I cannot stress stretching enough. 20 minutes. Before and after running.

Ladies I have two words for you: Sports. Bra. Apply lip balm/Vaseline etc. before running to avoid cracked lips as you become dehydrated.

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33

Bedfordshire Growers Country Store and Café.

Set up as a co-operative for local farmers over 50 years ago, Bedfordshire Growers has been moving with the times and has a whole new look along with some innovative products. Catherine Rose stopped by and heard all about their forthcoming Family Fun Weekend.

If you have driven out of Biggleswade along Potton Road over the past 25 years, you will have passed Bedfordshire Growers. A co-operative founded by local growers to stem competition and give Bedfordshire farmers collectively more power, BG has a long tradition in local veg. Today, as well as its on-site vegetable-packing warehouse, BG also boasts a café and smartly refurbished, spacious shop that stocks a range of products and locally-sourced produce not available elsewhere for miles.

The new-look shop and café was unveiled to coincide with the company’s 50th anniversary two years ago. At the time, they also held an event in their 6½ acre field next door. It was such a success that they had a Christmas fair last year and are hosting an even bigger event this month – the Family Fun Weekend on 13th and 14th June.

“It’s an extension of what we are about” says BG’s Lorraine Field. “We are a local company so the emphasis will be on local participation with producers, craftspeople and entertainers from the area.”

The weekend includes craft stalls, a Pimms tent and bar, traction engine display, a hog roast and barbeque; and for the children, bouncy castles and Shetland pony rides. There will also be an entertainment arena and stage hosting live music from local performers. “We have invited organisations and schools from the community to take part” says Lorraine. “The Biggleswade

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By Catherine Rose

Sea Cadets will be bringing their band; and we have demonstrations from a local cheerleading club, Country dancers, a Zumba group and Bedfordshire Young Farmers who will be welly wanging! Stratton School Farm will be there with alpacas, ferrets, hens and rabbits; and Alban and Biggleswade Academies will be performing.

BG already allows local organisations free use of its field in order to ‘give something back to the community’. Dog agility classes run there regularly and, as well as featuring at the Family Fun Weekend, dog shows take place on 7th and 28th June.

Stephen Hedderly, managing director, sees the weekend as an opportunity to introduce new people to Beds Growers. “It’s really important that, with Biggleswade expanding, people moving into the area know what we have to offer. The weekend

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will showcase our new products in the shop and the café will also be open. People can relax with some great local food and drink while listening to live music.”

When Beds Growers began, everything was homegrown, from the famous Bedfordshire Brussels Sprout to lettuce and onions. Today, most vegetable farming has moved up to Lincolnshire but BG retains its loyalty to local produce and favours British-grown vegetables in season. “We’re still very much a cooperative” says Stephen.

BG’s packing warehouse supplies 48% of Sainsbury’s lettuce; many of its Bedfordshire-grown onions go to major supermarkets; and it has just signed an agreement with Netto to pack their cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers and radishes.

A traditional business, Stephen appreciates that Biggleswade is becoming a more modern town.

Consequently, the company has been modernising what they sell and has recently taken on the Joules brand of clothing – fashionable country and casual ware that appeals to all ages, to go alongside their traditional outdoor wear. They also stock a quirky but affordable gift range.

“People love visiting farm shops and we ensure they always have something interesting to browse, with the opportunity to try things that they can’t get at the supermarket. Our biggest priority is innovation” says Stephen.

Consequently, BG is launching three exciting new food products this year to go with the purple carrots, black potatoes and yellow tomatoes in its shop. Recently, sweet red and pink onions grown in Cardington by Alastair Findlay, a Beds Growers’ member, made coverage on the BBC and over 90 news-trending websites when they were the first coloured sweet onion in the world. They will be available in the autumn and it is now hoped to export them to the US. Local produce is paramount. “Our cheeses are produced in Bedfordshire” says Stephen “and we sell local brands of chutney, wine, chillies and crisps.

Cottage Bakery in Ampthill supplies us with bread and cakes and our meat comes from Woburn.”

The company also sells Field Fare’s frozen food – a better class of ready meal made with fresh, unprocessed ingredients.

The café serves quality food in generous portions at affordable prices. There is a discount OAP day on

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Tuesdays, breakfasts served daily (rated the best in the area by a local breakfast club), and delicious Sunday roasts. Stephen is currently looking into providing corporate buffets and a takeaway service to fill what he sees as a much needed gap in the local market.

“It’s easy to pop in here” he explains “unlike having to go into town, find parking and walk.” There is also an outdoor play area for children.

Equine products and animal feed continue to form a large part of the business and there is a big purpose-built area, accessed by doors at the rear of the shop, that stocks all types of pet food, as well as being a ‘one-stop shop’ for the stable. “We offer a free delivery service to horse owners” says Stephen.

Future plans include the possibility of turning part of the field into a ‘pick your own’ site but for now, it would appear that BG is definitely still ‘growing strong’. Pop in if you’re passing and don’t forget to come along to the Family Fun Weekend.

Bedfordshire Growers

Potton Road, Biggleswade Beds. SG18 0ER Tel: 01767 319215 www.bgscountrystore.co.uk Facebook and Twitter: MyCountryStoreUK Photographs by Darren Harbar Photography To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

35

Woburn Forest HoliDAy VillAge

career OPPOrTUNITIeS Flexible working hours available Competitive rates of pay plus benefits nestled in a 365 acre forest, Woburn Forest boasts beautiful undulating woodland landscapes, the largest subtropical swimming Paradise, magical views over the lake and forest with modern lodges bringing guests closer to nature. We welcome thousands of guests and offer a first class spa, dining and leisure facility that caters for every eventuality.

We have a variety of positions with hours to fit around your lifestyle. There are various contracts available. You will come into regular contact with our guests so you will need to have a pleasant and helpful nature. Transport is available for some of our positions in the local area.

To apply please visit centerparcscareers.co.uk, click on Job Search, then choose the Woburn location or alternatively sign up to receive regular job alerts. center Parcs, Woburn Forest Holiday Village, Millbrook, Bedford, MK45 2HZ

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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.

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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 Bedfordshire Through Time by Stephen Jeffrey-Poulter. Published by Amberley Publishing and the latest in its successful ‘Through Time’ series, Stephen’s book contains delightful period photographs of the towns and villages in the county of Bedfordshire. The images have been sourced mainly from the Sandy Chrystal postcard collection held by Bedfordshire & Luton Archives Records Service and many are being published for the first time. Contrasting modern colour pictures provide an interesting insight into the many changes that have taken place over the decades.

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 Hertfordshire Through Time.

To order your copy of Bedfordshire Through Time, please contact The Villager Bookshop on 01767 261122 or email booksales@villagermag.com.

Alternatively, 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 Bedfordshire 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, September 2013 Price: £14.99 ISBN: 978-1-4456-1618-6 Size: 235 x 165mm Rights: World, all languages To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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39

COMPETITION

Win Tickets to see

Parklife

LPH Concerts and The Pad Presents...

ParkLive - Happy Mondays, Ash, Stereo MCs & The Scruff Bedford Park Friday 31st July 2015 Gates open at 6pm LPH concerts, the promoters for the Bedford Park Concert series this summer have teamed up with The Pad Presents to bring PARKLIVE to town, which will include legendary band The Happy Mondays headlining the Friday night concert.

The seminal Manchester band, changed musical culture forever and were one of the biggest bands of the Madchester era. They released 2 cult albums on Tony Wilson’s legendary Factory Records label ‘Squirell & Gman’ and ‘Bummed’ before rising to huge acclaim in 1990 with the release of ‘Thrills Pills & Bellyaches’ which spawned the immortal hit singles Step On, Kinky Afro, thrusting them into mainstream consciousness as they went on to tour and top festival line ups all over the world. Other classic Mondays tunes include Lazyitis, Loose Fit, Bobs Yer Uncle, W.F. L and the club anthem ’24 Hour party people’ - a track title that went on to inspire a film of the same name which recounted the Factory Records glory days and all the chaos that came with it.

In recent years the band have reunited with the full original line up, including front man Shaun Ryder

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alongside his maraca shaking vibes man Bez as well as backing singer Rowetta.

Special guests for the evening are Belfast pop punk indie icons Ash. The Tim Wheeler fronted stalwarts of indie have been together for over 20 years and were one of the movers and shakers of the Britpop era, stacking up 5 top 10 albums and an incredible run of 18 top 40 singles including Girl From Mars, Goldfinger, Shining Light, Burn Baby Burn and the movie theme tune A Life Less Ordinary. Ash are back on tour all over the UK this year including many major music festivals but are pleased to be making the stop off to Bedford in July having sold out Bedford Corn Exchange back in July 2013.

Support comes from the Stereo MC’s who emerged out of the UK indie dance scene in the late 80s early 90’s with the release of the albums 33,45,78, Supernatural and the Brit Award winning album Connected, the latter which spawned their biggest single successes with the title track Connected, Step it Up and Ground Level. Opening up the show are local boys The Scruff.

Tickets are £32.50 including booking fees, and can be purchased from www.lphconcerts.co.uk and www.thepadpresents.com

The Villager and Town Life has a pair of tickets to give away for the Parklife Event.

To enter, simply email editor@villagermag.com with the heading ‘Parklife Entry’ and include your name, address and telephone number.

A winner will be picked at random.

Closing Date: 12th June 2015

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THE COMPUTER MAN Local, Qualified & Experienced

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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

Time of Year

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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43

Local News

Top Tips

for Fundraisers and Charities

Toni Hasler has recently moved to Potton, Bedfordshire, from North Devon, though she is originally from South Africa. She has more than 28 years experience in senior roles in the charity and non-profit sector, and in fundraising in particular, both as an employee and a consultant to a wide variety of charities.

One of the things that has most impressed me about the UK since I moved here 14 years ago is the huge willingness of ordinary people, often even those who are not financially well off, to raise funds for those in need. Every town and village, no matter how small, holds charity events to help good causes. Many of those who become involved have little experience in raising funds, but their enthusiasm is boundless, which really does make a difference to their fundraising efforts.

So what are the other essential qualities needed by volunteers and fundraisers working to raise funds in community groups? The following, in my opinion, are the most important:

1. A real belief in your cause If you believe in what your charity is doing, you will find it so much easier to persuade others to become involved, whether you are a fundraiser or a volunteer.

2. The ability to connect with people Fundraising is all about building relationships.

Charities need people first and foremost, and then money will follow if those relationships are right.

3. Knowledge As a charity fundraiser you will need to have a thorough knowledge of your charity. Be certain of your charity’s facts and figures. Supporters are likely to want to know about your charity. This is particularly relevant if you have just joined a charity and are helping with an event for the first time.

4. Honesty Of course, honesty in fundraising is essential if you are dealing with other people’s money. Make sure you follow your charity’s procedures when collecting money at events or directly from people.

5. Understanding An essential element of the charity world, and fundraising in particular, is an understanding of your supporters’ reasons for being involved with your charity, whether as a donor or as a volunteer.

Why are they supporters? Do they have a link, direct or indirect to your charity? What made them choose to be involved in your charity before another charity? Understanding them is important in building an ongoing relationship with them in the longer term.

6. Professionalism Whether you are a volunteer or an employee, it is important that you represent your charity in a professional manner. Leave your personal issues and problems behind at home, and focus on the good that your charity is doing.

If you would like more information on what fundraising is all about, please take a look at my website, www.support4charities.com, which is a free to use resource for all fundraisers and volunteers. There are plenty of easy fundraising ideas for all fundraisers and anyone involved in charities. Email me at toni@support4charities.com

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ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS AND BUILDING DESIGN SERVICES

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Fun Quiz - Toys and Games 1. What toy would you need to perform tricks called walk the dog and the cat’s cradle?

2. Which game has a name that is derived from a Swahili word meaning “to build”?

3. Named toy of the year for 1998 by the British Association of Toy Retailers, which electronic toy would speak its own language initially before gradually starting to speak more and more English?

4. What colour are the hotels in a standard game of Monopoly?

5. First introduced in the 18th century, what type of puzzles were named after the tool that was used to make them?

6. In which game might you visit Lemonade Lake, Chocolate Mountains, Minty Meadow and Easter Bunny Hills?

7. Which of Andy’s toys in the Toy Story films wears a black bowler hat?

8. In a standard game of Battleship, how many ships do you have to sink to win?

9. Which American toy company was founded in 1945 by Harold Matson and Elliot Handler?

10. What is the only non-metallic murder weapon in the game of Cluedo?

Before

After

1. A yo-yo 2. Jenga 3. The Furby 4. Red 5. Jigsaw puzzles (a jigsaw would be used to cut out the pieces) 6. Candy Crush Saga 7. Mr Potato Head 8. Five 9. Mattel (from parts of their names “mat” and “el” 10. The ropes

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47 04/12/2014 14:21

Happy 20th Birthday Harpers…

Twenty years ago Jen Harper opened her own barbers shop in Potton Square, which at the time was a relatively sleepy village.

Fast forward to 2015, and Harpers is going from strength to strength in this now busy community.

Jen’s hairdressing background hasn’t always been gentlemen’s cuts, she originally started with ladies hair, as did her co-worker Donna Cowell who has been working at Harpers for the last 17 years.

Photographs by Darren Harbar Photography 48

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Together this dynamic duo quaff, cut and style men’s hair and have, over the years, become a notable talent within the village.

Working alongside the two ladies is Kymberly, whom works part time and has been at the barbers for 6 months.

Clients have nothing but good things to say about Harpers, especially the home from home welcome received whilst waiting for their cut.

All 3 girls pride themselves on offering services to an array of male customers, from the young and trendy to the discerning gentlemen and everything in between. All are welcome and leave feeling neat, spruced and tidy.

Today’s metro sexual male likes to be groomed with a good haircut, it’s popular and more and more men are looking after themselves without feeling like outcasts. Back in the 90’s, men preferred to be seen as masculine, and any preening was deemed as feminine and uncool.

Product is everything for a young man’s style in the 21st century and Jen uses Osmo hair care for such tresses, a trusted and respected global brand for the hair care professional.

Harpers also likes to operate a loyalty card system for their clientele, pay for 9 cuts, and get the 10th free, a service which has proved popular amongst the gentlemen, and is a way of giving something back to their loyal customers.

Late night opening has also proved to be a winner for the girls, on a Tuesday the shop stays open until 7pm, and 8pm on a

Thursday, a perfect scenario for a working man.

To celebrate their 20th Birthday, 20 successful years in business and of course Father’s Day, Jen, Donna and Kymberly are offering a FREE Goodie Bag to the first 20 customers through the door on Saturday 19th June.

Simply say “Happy Birthday” upon arrival and see if you have been lucky enough to be one of the first 20 customers of the day.

For any further information call Jen, Donna or Kymberly on 01767 260256

By Sarah Fryer

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49

Garden

By Pippa Greenwood www.pippagreenwood.com

Making a pest They might be small but aphids - widely known as greenfly and blackfly - are one of the most common and widespread garden pests, with more than five hundred different species found in the United Kingdom alone. Greenfly and blackfly vary in colour, from green or black to grey, yellow, pink, brown or kaki. The majority are about 2mm long Most damage is done throughout spring and summer but there are aphids feeding somewhere pretty well throughout the year. In sheltered parts of your garden or in greenhouses and conservatories, some can be found even during the cooler winter months. They can breed rapidly and this is often done asexually or without need of a male. For much of the year females are predominant and give birth to huge numbers of genetically identical offspring.

The symptoms they cause include leaf yellowing or other brightly coloured discolouration, puckering, poor growth and stunting. The plant sap on which the aphids feed has an extremely high sugar content; in fact it is so sugary that the aphids cannot digest it all, so their excreta is very sticky and sugary. This is called ‘honeydew’ and you may have noticed it beneath aphid-infested plants. Because it is so sugary, honeydew attracts harmless but unattractive black ‘sooty moulds’.

On roses there are several species of aphid which may attack, often forming dense colonies on shoot tips, new leaf growth and flower buds. These aphids are mostly green, pinkish or yellowish in colour and up to 3mm long.

If vegetables are more your thing then you may see the black bean aphid as it forms dense colonies especially at the shoot tips and beneath the leaves of broad beans in the spring. If you pinch out the aphid-encrusted shoot tips on beans the problem is often solved.

Another common one is the woolly aphid which

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of themselves

attacks apple trees and is also often seen on ornamental Malus such as crab apples, pyracantha and cotoneaster. Colonies of the aphid covered with white, waxy, fluffy fibres develop on the bark, especially near pruning cuts on older stems, or on younger stems where they also cause swellings on the stem.

It is pretty well impossible to garden without aphids causing some grief – the best you can do is to reduce their numbers. Encouraging naturally occurring predators such as blue tits, ladybirds, hoverflies and lacewings will all help.

In some situations it is also worth introducing biological controls and these work especially well in an enclosed area such as a greenhouse or conservatory. Aphid predators such as the larva of the midge Aphidoletes and even ladybirds, can all be purchased, as can the tiny parasitic wasp Aphidius. Ladybirds (available from my website, www.pippagreenwood.com) are perfect for using on aphid outbreaks anywhere in the garden from pots and borders to hanging baskets and hedges.

The great thing with these is that, once established they will start to breed and add to the natural ladybird population.

There are a number of different chemicals (including organic or ‘green’ ones such as those based on fatty acids or plant oils) available for controlling aphid pests too, but not all are suitable for use on every plant, so check the label carefully before buying or using, and always follow the instructions carefully.

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for ladybirds and other biocontrols to control greenfly, Nemaslug, brilliant weeders, pop-up crop covers, copper tape and lots more besides.

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Pottons Specialist Welding and Fabricating Company

For further information please call Trevor on Tel: 01767 261845 Mobile: 07941 187689 Email: Gemmaton@hotmail.co.uk

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Gardening & Wildlife

Naughty but Nice?

Rural Ramblings. By Geoff Wharton Weeds, along with all the other nasty things trying to spoil our efforts to produce a nice environment (for us!) are constantly being exterminated. Weeds compete for water nutrients and light and have a negative effect on the growth and yield of our crop plants and for the commercial producer of food crops, it is an easy choice - it’s zero tolerance!

However for the grower of ornamental plants in their gardens, the decision for total elimination may not be quite as straightforward. There is one garden I know which has a heavy alkaline clay soil and seems to provide ideal conditions for the growing of primroses.

Springtime produces a wonderful display but the problem is that they are growing too well and are encroaching into the lawn . They are hybridising and the offspring are sprouting all over and flowering in a range of different colours and they look absolutely charming. The dilemma is what to do when mowing the lawn. It seems such a shame to cut off their colourful little flowers but if they are left they increase year by year and the lawn turns into a huge spring flower bed. Maybe nature should be left and we will see what happens or the mover blades are lowered and the lawn weed-killer comes out?

I have come across many other examples where beauty and the beast seem to go together Bindweed and Convolvulus are perennial weeds and difficult to control even with modern translocated herbicides.

Their flowers are relatively large trumpet shaped and are very attractive but they spread rapidly and personally I always get rid of them in the garden but in the wild they are most impressive.

Aquilegia is similar to Forget-me-not and will seed itself all over. Unfortunately, the seedlings of aquilegia seem to revert to pale pink or blue flowering plants are not as attractive as their parents.

The large purple flowers of Mallow are eye-catching but the plants are perennial and grow quite large and will smother smaller species.

For a strong yellow flower Dandelion and Creeping Buttercup come to mind but again they will spread by seed or runners and can be a real nuisance especially in lawns. As the definition goes - a weed is just a plant growing out of place and not wanted. We usually associate a lawn only with grass species and anything else would then be a weed and have to go!

Now we come to the real beasties - Dog-Rose and Bramble. I have included the latter because if it’s juicy fruits. They are both as bad as each other for their defensive spines but because brambles can spread by tip-layering they can spread by ‘leaps and bounds’

and both will take over if left unchecked.

There is a poisonous plant that may be increasing in this country possibly as the summers are warmer? It has a large white trumpet-shaped flower similar to bindweed but the fruits are the size of horsechestnut tree fruits and very spiky. It is called a Thornapple (Datura). It seems to be more common growing in warmer areas of Europe. It is an annual only living for a year and spreads by seed growing on waste ground.

The list of attractive wild plants (weeds) is vast as they all seem to have their own beauty especially when looked at close up. It seems to be a pity to be always removing them in our gardens because they are wild and often don’t have the larger more colourful flowers developed by the plant breeder. It is only sensible to remove anything which may cause harm or damage but a compromise could often be beneficial to all concerned by leaving some ‘invaders’ especially if they add to the diversity of our gardens.

Geoff Wharton Gardening Services Reliable, experienced, well qualified.

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Geoff Wharton - BSC honours Hort.Science Email:geoffwharton@hotmail.com

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53

Local News

Beeston Open Gardens 2015 Enthusiastic gardeners in the village of Beeston are once again looking forward to welcoming visitors to the annual Open Gardens which takes place this year on Sunday 14th June between 2 and 6pm. Regular visitors to this event will testify to the interesting variety of gardens to view. As in previous years new gardens have been added which keeps the event vibrant and interesting. Ten gardens will be opening, ranging from small plots to larger ones backing onto open fields, each with its own unique style and planting scheme. So, whether you are looking for inspiration, enjoy viewing interesting planting schemes or chatting to enthusiastic amateur gardeners, you will not be disappointed.

Tickets priced £3per adult, with free entry for children under the age of 13, are available from many locations on the day. Ample parking plus toilets will be at the northern end of The Green ( courtesy of Mr and Mrs Cope ). Delicious refreshments of homemade cakes with tea and

coffee will be served all afternoon at 16 The Green, where you will be able to purchase raffle tickets with prizes donated by local businesses and private individuals. The plant stall will be selling a wide variety of interesting, affordable plants donated by local plant centres and gardeners.

Money raised goes to support Beeston community plus local and national organisations.

A list of donations can be viewed at www. beestonopengardens.org.uk where you can also see photographs from previous years.

Beeston Methodist Chapel in The Baulk are also holding their Flower Festival on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th June, so why not combine it with the Open Gardens event for a wonderful afternoon out.

The committee wish to thank all volunteers and local businesses for their continued support, and look forward to welcoming all visitors to this year’s Beeston Open Gardens.

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55

Wildlife Meadow Brown New Denham Butterfly

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

56

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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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.

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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.

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Ask Alan Ruth asked: My cat Max is due his vaccination and I have heard that he does not need to be vaccinated as he is over 10 years old – what must I do?

Vaccination protects pets against diseases that are highly contagious, or deadly. Vaccinations for some diseases do not need to be given every year (although boosters are still needed every 3 years or so) but others are needed every year as it has been shown that the immunity does not last longer than a year.

Generally vaccines are multivalent (more than 1 type of vaccine given at the same time) and it is not possible tell whether full immunity is developed every time to every component, but if you boost all the components regularly you generally end up with good immunity to all the different parts of the vaccine.

Also pet’s immune systems tend to become slightly less competent as they age, so regular boosters are still important.

Pets

Vaccination is a victim of it’s own success. When the disease is common everyone wants to vaccinate. When the vaccination campaign works and the disease is no longer seen, then people tend to question whether vaccinations are needed until the vaccination rate in the population drops and the disease recurs again.

Scientific evidence supports regular vaccination programs; we recommend that you continue to vaccinate Max regularly.

Best wishes,

Alan

If you have any questions you would like answered, please email them to villager@pottonvets.co.uk For more information visit

www.pottonvets.co.uk or pop into the clinic in Potton Market Square.

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61

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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Woodentops Preschool

Open Day 11th June 2015 9.30am - 2.30 pm “Where learning is fun�

For more information contact us on: 01767 261100 (9am - 1pm Mon - Fri) 01767 449443 or 07947 892823 Email us at: woodentopspotton@gmail.com Visit our website at: www.woodentops-potton.com To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Local News

Thanks Charles Biggleswade Sandy Lions Club

Charles Wicksteed was born in Leeds in 1847, the son of a clergyman. After an engineering apprenticeship he set up a steam plough contracting business in Norfolk at the age of 21. In 1871 he moved to Kettering and went on to set up an engineering workshop.

In 1913 he bought an area of land near Kettering.

He wanted to create an open space for local families, many of whom lived in houses with no gardens, so that their children had to play in the streets. With his engineering company he provided both seats and playground equipment.

Wicksteed Park was born, one of the first leisure parks in Great Britain. Indeed, he provided equipment for many such parks in Europe.

Besides the fun of the roller coasters, flume and pirate ship and rides there is also a nature reserve and 147 acres of restful parkland. He designed the railway but sadly he died before it opened in

Easter 1931. “Cheyenne” one of the engines was built in Bedford.

In June this year, as in previous years, we will be taking a full coach of disadvantaged families, who wouldn’t normally have such a day out, to Wicksteed Park. In addition, we also invite Bedfordshire Young Carers and give them a much needed break. We pay for not only the coach, but also for admission and access to all the rides and attractions, as well as providing a picnic lunch. It is thanks to you and your kind and generous support at our fundraising events that we can do this, one of our key events of the year.

Would you like to help raise money for events like this, take part in running them and enjoy our social life as well? To find out more, visit www.biggeswadesandylions.org.uk or speak Dave or Judi on 01462 814693.

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* Kitchen Facilities for light use only and must be agreed in advance

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A1

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We are the Mobile Motor Vehicle Technicians..

A1 Mobile Tech has a proven track record of effective problem solving and attention to detail and our goal is to meet and exceed the expectations of every customer.

We aim to please, we come to you and carry out main dealer level work at reasonable prices.

Quality Peace Of Mind Service Airport Transfer Specialists Up to 8 people travelling

If it’s motor vehicle related we should be able to get it repaired We offer a wide range of specalist service • Dealer Level Diagnostics • Component testing • Programing Equipment • Servicing & Repairs • Pre Mot inspections • Key programing • Engine Remapping • So much more

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Motoring

Top 5 Eco Cars

By James Baggott, editor of Car Dealer Magazine (CarDealerMag.co.uk)

As the costs to run our beloved petrol- and diesel-powered cars increase, it’s no wonder we’re all on the hunt for an alternative solution.

With electric and hybrid powertrains driving some of the industry’s most esteemed supercars – the new Honda NSX and BMW i8 – it would appear that there is another way forward.

But if eco is at the forefront of your mind, which car should you have on your driveway? Here are our choices.

Ford Fiesta The Fiesta is the best selling car on the market – and not without good reason. Although it’s not labelled an official ‘eco’ car, its low running costs make it the ideal cost-effective solution for most buyers. Choose the 1.4-litre TDCi, priced from £13,065, and you can expect an average mileage of 68mpg and emissions of 107g/km.

Fiat 500 The Fiat 500 completes the ‘Thee Musketeers’ line-up, alongside the Mini and VW Beetle, as one of today’s most stylish cars. Running a 1.2-litre engine, the 500 TwinAir can achieve 49.6 urban mpg and dodges road tax by emitting just 95g/km of CO2. The TwinAir is priced from £12,715 and is the perfect city run around.

BMW i3 BMW’s futuristic i3 is one of just a few cars that has revolutionised the way we view the future of motoring. Not only does it combine ecofriendly driving with premium qualities, it can also reach 93mph, can go from 0-60mph in 7.9 seconds and has a driving range of 106 miles, thanks to its on-board petrol motor, which works alongside a 127kW electric unit. Sadly, its £29,130 price means we don’t see many of them on the road.

Volkswagen E-Up! The E-Up! is one of the most practical and reasonably-priced electric cars on the market, with five doors and an estimated driving range of 93 miles. It takes six hours to recharge and has a comfortable top speed of 81mph. The price isn’t so attractive at £19,525, but this electric motor is close to feeling more like the average supermini.

Renault Twizy Renault’s Twizy is just as fun as it looks. It may be the slowest of the pack, with a top speed of just 56mph, but it’s guaranteed to provide you with the most entertainment. Priced at £7,795, its 15kW battery takes four hours to charge, it has a driving range of 62 miles and emits zero emissions. And just look at its styling!

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CODE READING - Trace & rectify those alarming red dashboard warning lights.

TYRES - All makes inc. Budget Avon, Dunlop, Firestone, Goodyear, Michelin, Pirelli.

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71

Food and Drink

Seasonal Delights Barbecued Rack of Ribs

Serves: 4 Ready in: 1 hour Pre-cooking ribs in a pan of simmering water before placing them on the barbecue will ensure meltingly tender meat every time. This method also saves space on the barbecue as the final cooking time with the sauce is much shorter.

Serve with a spicy chunky tomato salsa, if liked.

INGREDIENTS 2-3 racks of pork ribs (see Tip) 6 tbsp tomato ketchup 3 tbsp maple syrup 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 2 tbsp sunflower oil 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 1-2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 1. Place the ribs in a large pan and cover with cold water. Bring to the boil then skim off any scum from the surface of the water. Reduce the heat, cover and simmer gently for 45 minutes.

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2. Meanwhile, place the rest of the ingredients in a pan and bring to the boil. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Leave to cool.

3. Remove the racks from the pan and drain on a board lined with kitchen paper. Leave to cool for 5 minutes then brush each rack liberally with some of the sauce.

4. Cook the ribs on the edge of a hot barbecue for 10-15 minutes, turning and basting with any remaining sauce until the ribs are lightly charred in places. Alternatively, the ribs can be cooked under a medium preheated grill.

TIP Most large supermarkets sell racks of ribs or ask your local butcher to prepare them for you. Single ribs will work just as well (you’ll need about 2kg in weight), just reduce the simmering time to about 25 minutes.

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n O s ’ t Wha In June

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

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

5 & 19 June Biggleswade Cancer Support Group 1-3pm Meeting Room, Biggleswade Baptist Church Sessions free – donations welcome An informal, confidential group for cancer patients, families and friends in the Biggleswade area. It is a place to meet with others and provide mutual support. The group meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. Tel: 07812 796581 Email: csgbiggleswade@gmail.com Facebook: Biggleswade Cancer Support Group

1 June Monthly Charity Shop Open Evening 7-9pm Bedford Biggleswade Cats Protection, Springfield Centre, Orchard Street, Kempston With guest Tarot Reader.

6 June Car Boot/Table Top Sale 10am-1pm Stuart Memorial Hall, Church Street, Tempsford Pitches £5, Buyers free. Refreshments served all morning. Tel: Meryl 01767 640873

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.branch-out.org.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 Art 7-9pm Gallery 1066 Fine Art, Willow Mews, 6a Hitchin Street, Baldock International superstar Dylan Izaak will be visiting the gallery.

Tel: 01462 896164 for more information

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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.

Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 6 June Gamlingay Festival of Choirs Summer Concert 4pm St Mary’s Church, Gamlingay Adults £5 including drink Featuring choirs from the First School, the Village College, a Barbershop Quartet, the Choir from the Benefice of St Mary’s and Everton and The Gamlingay Community Choir.

Web: www.gamlingaychurch.co.uk 7 June Shortmead Open Gardens 2-5pm Shortmead Lane, Biggleswade, Beds SG18 0FG Adults £3, Accompanied under 12s free 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, plant sales, WC. Guide dogs only. All proceeds go to Friends of Shortmead.

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 12 June Family Fun Day 12-7pm Sandy Cricket Club, Sunderland Road Recreation Ground Bouncy castle, Gladiator Dual, BBQ, Mobile bar, Arcade machines, Summer Fete Games, Face Painting and Single Wicket competition.

12 June Quiz Night 8pm Gamlingay Village College £5 per person. Organised by Friends of Gamlingay Village College. Teams of 6.

Tel: Michelle 07939 036239 for more information Email: michellepeat.72@gmail.com 13 June Sandy Historical Research Group Exhibition 10.30am-4pm Beeston Methodist Church Admission 50, free for SHRG members Sandy Historical Research Group (SHRG) is holding a display of some historical artefacts, running alongside the popular Beeston Flower Festival.

13 & 14 June Flower Festival Weekend Sat 10.30am-3.30pm, Sun 10.30am-5pm Beeston Methodist Chapel, The Baulk, off Lime Avenue, Beeston Theme is “Our Church Past and Present”. Saturday - cakes, books, crafts, cards, grocery, Tombola stall, refreshments, lunches, afternoon teas. Display by the Sandy Historical Research Group.

10.30am Sunday Morning Service conducted by Roger Copperwheat. Lunches served 12.15-1.30pm.

The Flower Festival in conjunction with Beeston Open Gardens will be open until 5pm.

14 June Southill Parish Open Gardens 1-6pm Adults £3, Children free 11 gardens in the villages of Southill, Stanford and Broom are open for visitors. Programmes available on the day. Proceeds for All Saints Southill.

Email: colin.mccartney@virgin.net for further details

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n O s ’ t Wha In June 14 June Biggleswade Ladies Circle Bedford Race for Life Ladies Circle is a modern, vibrant club for women aged 18 to 45 who want to make new friends and maybe do a bit of fundraising along the way!

Whether you’re new to the Biggleswade area, or are just looking to broaden your social life, Biggleswade Circle group is a perfect way of getting more out of life. Members include single and married women, those with children and those without, working and not working. On 14 June we will be volunteering at the Bedford Race for Life. Tel: Lindsay 01767 631130 Email: biggleswade.circle@yahoo.co.uk Web: www.ladiescircle.co.uk/biggleswade Facebook: Biggleswade Ladies Circle Twitter: @BwadeCircle 16 June Gamlingay W I 7.30pm Gamlingay W I Hall Speaker will be Mark Linney on “Help for Heroes”.

-Visitors always welcome.

19 June Pamper Night 6-9.30pm Northill Lower School Tickets £5 a ticket inc. glass of bubbly Treatments including manicures, pedicures and facials from just £5 for a 15 minute treatment, to £10 for half an hour - all need to be booked in advance. Range of stalls to browse and an excellent raffle with some fantastic prizes on offer. Raising funds for Northill Lower School.

Tel: Tickets 07974 331109 Email: libbysmith@btopenworld.com 20 June Summer Four Seasons Market 9am-1pm Potton Community Centre Variety of stallholders supplying a superb selection of quality fayre including cheeses, local beers, pickles, fruit and veg, meats and artisan bread.

There will also be a range of crafts, handmade items and plants plus a delicious barbeque. Come along and get all your essentials and fine foods from the stallholders and independent shops around the historic square.

20 June Annual Rose Queen Fete 2-4pm John Donne Lower School, Blunham John Donne Lower School and St Edmunds or St James Church will be celebrating the Annual Rose Queen Fete. The procession starts from Park Lane at 2pm, followed by the crowning of the 2015 Rose Queen, a dancing display by the school children, and the opening of the fete. Many traditional stalls and attractions, such as the Pimms tent, cream teas, cakes, garden produce, pony rides together with modern attractions of a BBQ, bouncy castle, coconut shy, and hook a duck! For the gardeners – there will be a “Best Garden Rose” competition.

Tel: John Donne Lower School 01767 640346 20 & 21 June A Walk Through History 12 noon-5pm St Leonard’s Church, Old Warden ‘A walk through history past times in an estate village’ an exhibition. Afternoon teas and flower displays. Proceeds towards sound system.

21 June Biggleswade Antiques Fair 9.30am-4pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Entrance £1.50 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.

Tel: 01480 382432 or 07906 647346 Web: www.madisonevents.co.uk 23 June Knit & Natter 10am-12 noon Moggerhanger Church The group meets on the 4th Tuesday of the month.

23 June Archdeacon’s Day 11am-4pm Cockayne Hatley Church Each year, the Archdeacon of Bedford asks that churches are opened to the public for a day. Guides will be on hand to show the treasures of the church - its woodwork and stained glass windows. Even the churchyard has its curiosities - a memorial to the crew of the plane that crashed nearby in 1946, and the memorial to the poet Henley with its associations with Long John Silver and Wendy of “Peter Pan”. Teas will be available and there will be sales of preserves, and also a booksale.

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25 June Potton History Society Meeting 7.30pm or 8pm The Community Centre, Brook End, Potton What do you know about Potton? Join us at 7.30pm for a guided walk around Potton or 8pm in Centre.

Browse through our community files and scrapbooks on Potton. Visitors and new members welcome.

Light refreshments provided.

Web: www.pottonhistorysociety.com 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 27 June Performers & Pints 8.30pm for 9pm til 11.30pm The Rising Sun, 11 Everton Road, Potton Free entry - donations welcome Big artists in little Potton. A great community night out of fresh live music for all. Four exceptional performers x 30 mins each = one incredible evening of quality and diversity.

Web: www.facebook.com/performersandpints Twitter: @PerformersPints 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.

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Country Stoves Quarter page MAY Advert:Layout 1 10/

COUNTRY STOVES & SWEEPS STOVE INSTALLATION CHIMNEY SWEEPING

• Wood burning & multi fuel stoves • HETAS certified installation • Chimney lining • Twin wall flue systems • Free survey & quotation • ICS Qualified chimney sweeps • Insurance certificates issued • Bird guards fitted • Local, professional & reliable

www.countrystovesandsweeps.co.uk

Tel: 01767 627591 07950 705479 Northill, Beds.

INSTITUTE of CHIMNEY SWEEPS

3 Windows 3 Doors 3 Conservatories 3 Orangeries 3 Bi folds 3 Repairs T: 01767 765440 76

E: sales@i-glaze.co.uk

W: www.i-glaze.co.uk

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Julian Biggs Plumbing OCT Advert:Layout 1 10/09/201

Julian Biggs Plumbing& Heating All aspects of plumbing & heating work Boilers - Servicing, Repairs, Installation Bathroom, showers and taps leaking taps to full installation

NO CALL OUT CHARGE • COMPETITIVE RATES

Tel: 01767 627591 07950 705479

www.julianbiggsplumbingandheating.co.uk located in Northill, Beds

Fully qualified and insured • All work guaranteed Free Quotations • Local, professional & reliable

Sureclean DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

• Spot stain and odour removal • Anti-stain protection • Leather suites cleaned and reconditioned • Tile and grout cleaning • The very latest equipment used • All work guaranteed • Fully insured • Local company

01767 400127 or 07870 338074 To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

77

1st Glass Window Repairs 30

years experience

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

DISCOUNTS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE

07511 906161

DRIFTWOOD JOINERY LTD Specialists in Bespoke Joinery

Conservatories • Doors • Windows Staircases Handmade Kitchens Handmade Bedroom Furniture

Unit 12, Gracious Farm, Southill, Beds SG18 9JB T: 01462 816695 F: 01462 850915 E: info@driftwoodjoinery.com 78

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Travel

Have You Ever Fancied a

Home Swap Holiday?

BBC One’s Home Away from Home is back!

And we’re looking for people who want to try out a home swap holiday in the UK. Do you live in a home you’d be happy to swap with someone elsewhere in the UK for a short break? Would you like the chance to have a new experience and discover local cuisine, sight-seeing that goes beyond the guide book, and an authentic place to stay?

With Home Away from Home you could be enjoying a unique holiday experience in a stunning part of the UK...

For an application form or an initial chat, please get in touch right away!

Email: homeawayfromhome@bbc.co.uk Phone: 0208 008 1468

“Read This ONLY If You Are A Homeowner In The Biggleswade Area” Your neighbour’s patio in Biggleswade has just be been professionally cleaned and now looks fantastic in time for summer relaxing and entertaining outdoors.

Get yours professionally cleaned and looking beautiful in time for you to relax and enjoy the warm outdoor weather.

Bring the “feel good” factor back to your home NOW. No fuss, no mess, just excellent results delivered every time to quickly transform the appearance of the exterior surfaces around your home.

Call Powerkleen NOW!!

To arrange your FREE quotation.

Tel 01767318391 or Mob 07765363459 The quicker you call the sooner you will have the appearance of your home that you will be proud of. Guaranteed.

Before

Powerkleen your local experienced professional solution to your exterior cleaning needs Call Now! Tel 01767318391 or Mob. 07765363459

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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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.

80

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

L.S. ROOFING

Covering Pot Biggleswadtoe,n, Gamlingay, surroundingSaandy and reas

The Right Choice

Over 27 Years Experience Domestic and Commercial Specialists in:

• Flat roofing • Leadwork • Roof repairs • Tiling • UPVC • Restoration work • Slating • Fascias • Full public liability • Guttering • Soffit & cladding cover Free estimates

Tel/Fax: 01767 261282 Mobile: 07710415470

s in Expert ic o t His r d e & List s g in d il bu

Office: 2 Gamlingay Road, Beds SG19 2RQ L.S.Roofing is a division of Potton Roof Ltd L.S. Roofingin 1/2The page.indd 1 and Town Life please call 01767 261122 To advertise Villager

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E SIN

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M FA

16/03/2015 15:38 81

T&R Roofing Ltd

Window Doctor Repairs to Windows, Doors & Conservatories • • • • • • •

Misty Units New Locks Draughty Windows Dropped Doors Broken Hinges/Handles Extra Security Installation of New Windows, Doors and Conservatories

25 Years Experience Contact Stewart Gyles on T: 0798 444 1638 or

01767 221 057

E: stewy_133@msn.com

Family Business Est. 1985

• Felt Roofing Specialists (10 year & 15 year guarantee on high performance felts) • Tiling, Slating, Guttering • UPVC Facia/Soffits • Chimney Work

All NEW work guaranteed Fully insured for employer & Public Liability Call Tony Simpson for a FREE estimate on:

01767 314847 mob. 07831849847

Mark Dilley Electrical Part P Registered Company 22386

• Supply & fit at competitive prices

Extra sockets - Lighting Extensions - Re-wires Security Lighting - Showers Inspections

• Free home calls to estimate & advise • Friendly reliable service

No job too small Free estimates All work to BS7671 regulations City and Guilds qualified

For all enquiries, please call or email:

01480 509 685 M: 07833 222 199

Tel: 01767 261008 Mob: 07990 895430

T:

E: pgscarpets@hotmail.co.uk 82

mark.dilley@btinternet.com

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

• • • • • • • •

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

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

Unit 2 Home Farm Court, The Street, Diddington, St Neots, PE19 5XT info@cromwellstoves.co.uk | 01480 812281 | 07786 854946

www.cromwellstoves.co.uk

Cromwell stoves full page.indd 1

10/02/2015 08:32

J. Jenkins

Building Services Extensions New Build Renovations Garage Conversions Loft Conversions Kitchen Fitting Driveways and Patios

For all your building needs Call John on 01767 222219 or 07831 283296 Email: chippyjenkins@gmail.com References available on request To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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May’s Crossword, Codeword and Suduko Solutions Last Month’s Crossword Winner Mr Keating from Letchworth

Easy

Hard

To the tasteful homeowner in pursuit of a thoughtfully designed kitchen and living area.

At we understand the pleasure good kitchen design brings to everyday life. From materials, colours, craftsmanship, clever storage and ample worktop space for any size of room, can make your vision for the perfect kitchen real.

For more information visit arcandbe.com call us now on

01438 729 610 Showroom – Open by appointment: 9 Weston Barns, Hitchin Road, Weston, Hitchin, Hertfordshire SG4 7AX 1/2 page.indd 1 To arc+be advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

18/03/2015 14:38 85

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:

86

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KEMP GARAGE DOORS SALES • INSTALLATION • REPAIRS • Family Run Business • 25 Years Experience • Up and Over • Sectional and Roller Doors www.kempgaragedoors.co.uk • Security Shutters

• Remote Control Door

SANDY • POTTON • All Major Brands

Supplied and Serviced

BIGGLESWADE • Call for a Free AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Quotation

• OAP Rates Available

01767 260165 Sandy

01480 210410 Eaton Socon To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

87

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Electrician

Villager 1/4 page advert.indd 1

15/01/2015 10:28

www.rooneyelectrical.co.uk

Do you find it difficult to get someone to come and do a small job?

Fault finding/repairs Extra lights and sockets New fuse boards Rewires P.A.T testing Landlord inspections Qualified electrician  Fully insured Reliable service  Tidy work Free quote  Satisfaction guaranteed

Call Nigel on: 01767 221088 / 07941295883 88

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

“How To Have The Wow Factor Quickly Brought To Your Home” Imagine how thrilled you would be to have your home’s carpets looking this great. Rejuvenated, beautifully clean, fresh, soft and comfortable under foot.

Employing Powerkleen’s thorough and exhaustive carpet cleaning process will ensure that dirt, grit, allergy causing pollen and pollutants will be extracted from the base of the pile.

Rest assured that your carpets and upholstery will be professionally cleaned and cared for by a local, experienced and industry trained technician (I.I.C.R.C) when you engage our services.

We pride ourselves on providing excellent service and value for money to our clients and achieving outstanding results.

So much so that we Guarantee our work. If for some reason you are not thrilled with the results that we achieve for you then we will re-clean free of charge.

If you are still not thrilled then we would refund your money and not accept your payment.

Before

Call Powerkleen NOW!!

To arrange your FREE consultation and quotation.

Tel 01767318391 or Mob 07765363459

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Tel: 01767 261622 Mob: 07947 732883 Email: dialporter01@tiscali.co.uk

PK Cleaning Services Est. since 1988

•

• • • • •

Professional Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Leather Cleaning Window Cleaning UPVC Fascia Cleaning Patio and Driveway Cleaning Gutter and Soffit Cleaning

We now supply wood and kindling!

Call now or visit our website

Free Estimates Friendly and Reliable Service

Paul Kaiser Home 01767 222822 Mobile 07812 335860 Visit us on

www.pk-cleaningservices.co.uk 90

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To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

91

Books Classifieds

Book Review

By Bruce Edwards Nora Webster

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

Colm Tóibín

Pub: Penguin p/b £7.99 ISBN: 978-0-141-04175-9 Some paper-back novels commonly found on the ‘buy one, get one at half price’ tables in the central arena of your local chain bookstore can often be seen as quick-fire revelations of someone else’s world without too much reality or depth, and possibly even written ‘against the clock’ in response to a publisher’s insistent demand that a sellable writer fulfils his/ her contract signed after the first successful title.

Do you choose a title purely by the cover? What logic or attraction works best from the commercial sales point of view? There’s no such thing as the ‘best cover design’ despite marketeer’s best efforts, for we’re all individuals and as such, choose subjectively. Literary content may come second to the girl - or crime scene - on the cover So, would you choose Nora, appearing as a not particularly sexy woman standing alone on a sea-shore who - according to the revealing back cover blurb - has just been widowed, something that may otherwise take you a fair few pages to discover?

Quick-fire reading this is not. There’s a wealth of splendid detail here, couched in neat everyday language, of an almost hour by hour revelation of her thoughts, how she discovers her new self in the reflection of others and how the turn of life’s journey affects her husband-less future. Its very intimacy absorbs one into her world; Tóibín’s revelation of a world well worth exploring. You’ll find more than you bargained for and therefore may never read a chick-lit title again.

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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Aerials and Satellites AERIALS & SATELLITES

Tel: 01462 732 628 • Mob: 07860 436 217

Builders R&P Bloss Builders Ltd We now have a qualified electrician, for all your electrical works, as well as trades to build your extensions, garage conversions, loft conversions, kitchen fitting and patios etc.

Es

30 tablish yea ed rs

Ring Ray on 01767 681710

The

Ironing Fairy Do you hate ironing, or just don’t have time to do it?... ...Then let me do it for you!

• Friendly, reliable 1 to 1 service from a business that cares!

• Affordable prices, and can pick up and drop off to your door.

• Non Smoking home with plenty of references from happy customers.

Call Sue for more information on:

M: 07963 031 538 H: 01767 261 899

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Classifieds Domestic Repairs

Builders “YOUNG’S BUILDERS”

JB Domestic

“YOUR LOCAL PROFESSIONAL MASTER BUILDERS” “QUALITY AND VALUE FROM START TO FINISH”

Guaranteed Repairs To: Washing Machines Tumble Dryers Electric Ovens/Cookers Dishwashers

Garage conversions from £5.9K

• • • • •

Extension - Sunrooms

Call 07811 985568 or 01767 261803 www.youngsbuilders.co.uk “Free quotes • Excellent references”

Extensions & Sunrooms Garage & Loft Conversions Walls, Patios & Decking General Building Work Property Maintenance

No Call Out Charge!

Tel: 01767 680621 Mobile: 07778 891490 Paul Goodchild advert.pdf

Electricians

Chauffeur Cars

1

19/05/2015

PG ELECTRICAL For all your electrical work Fully qualified and insured No job too small All work guaranteed Call Paul on

01767 221363 07740 099195

Electricians

Decorating Services

DECORATING SERVICES

• Over 25 years experience • No job too big or too small • Free estimates T: 01767

222 028

M: 07887

618 832

email: topcoat@ntlworld.com

Domestic Repairs

Sellors and Lettors Bcard:Layout 1 10/10/2014 13:01 Page 1

Estate Agents

Domestic Appliance Repairs Washing Machines • Cookers Fridges • Vacs • Dryers

Bill Tangye

Beds Tel By or appointment only - 4 Stratford Road, Sandy, Mob 01767 650750Tel: 07711 07802 393331 257105

Sellors and Lettors 19 High Street Biggleswade SG18 0JE Tel 01767 315666 Fax 01767 318747 Email sellors.lettors@btinternet.com

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

93

Classifieds Garden Machinery Service/Repair

Painting Services

Garden Machinery & Mowers Expert Service and Repair Collection & delivery available Unit 12a Whites Farm, Great North Road, Biggleswade SG18 9BE Tel: 01767 600085 Mob: 07593 553581

Garden Specialist

Pet Services

Hillier Garden Services All general garden maintenance jobs undertaken Over 20 years experience For all your gardening needs call Steve

01767 699252 07901 985123

Handy Man

S Classified advert.indd 1

Pet Services

14/04/2015 21:23

Plastering Services

Kitchen & Bathroom Fitter M. Philmore (Phil) - Kitchen and Bathroom Fitter Disabled showers supplied and fitted.

General plumbing.

57 Green Acres, Gamlingay, Beds. SG19 3LR Tel: 01767 650619 Mobile: 07870366414

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Steve Swain

Plastering, Painting & Decorating Painting & Decorating Plastering, Pebble Dashing Rendering, Screeding Mob: 07887 861881 Tel: 01767 226404 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Classifieds Private Car Hire

Property Improvements

Private Car Hire

Removals & Storage

Mats Cars Private Hire Potton Based

4+7 Seater Cars Available

Airport/Stations/Nights Out etc Local and Long Distance Tel: 01767 261871 Mob: 07983 218367 www.mats-cars.co.uk All major credit/debit cards accepted

Property Improvements Property Improvements by

A professional property maintenance service

• 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

01767 313230

enquiries@stephensremovals.com

Storage

Stephens Dinky ad_03.indd 1

3/12/12 11:45:18

Gary Hare

K.D. Secure Container Storage

Tel: 01767 651821 Mob: 07773 973420

Please call Gamlingay 01767 650777

Carpentry • Kitchens • Bedrooms Decorating • Flooring Bathrooms •Tiling • and more...

Property Improvements

GB

removals, storage, archive and shipping

20’ x 8’ x 8’ containers Electronic Secure Locked & Gated Area Domestic and Commercial Storage Short and Long Term Rates

Window Cleaning

GARY BERRIDGE Plasterer & General Maintenance Including UPVC Doors and Windows Tiling, Painting and Decorating Free Quotes

T: 01767 316485 M: 07582 485155 E: garyberridge@ymail.com To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

95

01767 682789

At Friends Five star hairdressing we offer • Redken Certified Hair Colourists • London trained stylists with the most up to date techniques in cutting and colouring • Award winning products including Redken, Pureology & Ghd • Relaxing shiatsu massage backwash chairs • Open two late evenings until 9pm • Free colour clinics • Wide range of complimentary refreshments and all the latest magazines to read Download our salon app for all the latest promotions and salon news Friends5stat Available in App Store or Play Store Opening Hours: Mon, Tues & Fri 9.30 - 6.00pm, Wed & Thurs 9.30 - 9.00pm, Sat 8.30 - 4.00pm www.friendsfivestarhairdressing.com facebook.com/friendshair Friends Five Star Hairdressing 1 Market Square, Sandy, Beds SG19 1HT Tel. 01767 682 789