Term times autumn 2014

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Supporting

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Look out for more information inside this issue...

Issue 110 October – November 2014

Flame & Thunder Fireworks

to n a

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Raise funds for your School Pet Safety Family Reading

Halloween FUN

Educational Apps Be Safe be Seen

ELUCTANT READERS

The essential FREE publicationwww.termtimes.ltd.uk for you and your children autumn edition

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Welcome...

It feels like summer is well behind us now, with the nights getting longer and thoughts turning to Bonfire Night, fireworks and, for those more prepared amongst us the dreaded ‘C’word. As ever, we are bringing you a bumper issue, including a chat we had with This Morning star Alison Hammond who is going to be playing the Genie at the Cresset, Peterborough, in this year’s pantomime of Aladdin. A preview of some of the other regions pantos will be in the Christmas issue.

In this issue, there is also a great fundraising initiative for schools from the Recycling factory. In addition we have been looking at the spooky side of our local city ghost walks. Continuing our ghostly theme, Huntingdon race course and the Fun Farm has given us tickets to give away for their Halloween events, which looks like spooky fun!

Away from Halloween we have a really informative article on some very useful educational apps to give the kids a stimulating way to enhance their learning, some further great competitions including Santa Pod tickets and some terrific book giveaways.

Enjoy this issue - and save me a toffee apple!

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Amanda

Enter as many competi tions as you w ish!

Spooky

Fun

Halloweenies for Little Monsters

Competition Entry

Join Peterborough Libraries as we enjoy Halloween for the little ones! Make your own spider hat to take home and scare your friends. Take on the frightening pumpkin bowling, face painting and more! 6 years and under, accompanied by an adult, £3 per child.

Mentioning the competition you are entering, send your name, age, address, telephone number and name of your school to 70 Rutland Road, Stamford, Lincs PE9 1UW or via email to steven@termtimes.ltd.uk

25 October, 10am-11.30pm - Hampton Library 25 October, 10.30am–12noon - Stanground Library 25 October, 10.30am-12noon - Woodston Library 25 October, 1pm-2.30pm - Orton Library 27 October, 10.30am-12noon - Eye Library 27 October, 1.30pm-3pm - Thorney Library 28 October, 2pm-3.30pm - Central Library 29 October, 1.30pm-3pm - Werrington Library 1 November, 1pm–2.30pm - Bretton Library

Alternatively, competitions will be posted on our website. Please ask your parents’ permission before entering via the internet. All winners will be picked at random and Term Times decision is final.

Enter at www.termtimes.ltd.uk Please mention Term Times when responding to adverts. Call Steven on 01780 757731 for advertising rates.

Contact 01733 864 280 or visit www.vivacity-peterborough.com

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I would like to wish you a warm, autumnal welcome to the new edition of Term Times Magazine. It has been a busy few weeks in our household, our darling boy has apparently adjusted to Foundation stage with gusto, although all new friends appear to share the same name; that of ‘boy!’ Our daughter is enjoying and anguishing about the stresses of being a Year Three in equal measure, signing up for every class or activity possible and ‘entertaining’ us all with her new-found passion with that most subtle and melodic of instruments: the saxophone. There have been many visits by neighbours concerned about apparent goose torturing that occurs on a nightly basis.

Cover image: © National Trust Image by John Millar

We love our Read our pet

PETS

safety articles

in this issue

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Term Times/Term Times Ltd are independently published and are trading styles of 12th Man Services and Solutions Ltd. Distributed free throughout primary schools in your area. Its aims are to inform families and children of current education issues, forthcoming events, places to visit, attractions etc. Every care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press. However, please check opening times/entry fees etc., before setting out on a journey. We also aim to give teachers, parents and children, the opportunity to participate in the content of Term Times. Term Times does not intend to publish any racist, sexist or political matters, nor carry out editorial or advertising that may be considered to be offensive to families. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of Term Times or the schools that distribute it. The publishers cannot be held responsible for any erroneous or misleading claims or comments made by any contributor. Our thanks go to the schools for their assistance in distributing the magazine, and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank the advertisers who have supported this publication and made it possible. Please support them where you can.

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Action-Packed Autumn Make your way to Ferry Meadows for an action packed autumn in the park.

Thursday 30th October sees the return of Woodlands Day, a day crammed with have-a-go activities, crafts and demonstrations all based around the themes of wood, woodlands and wildlife.

NEWS

Firework Fiesta set to light up Peterborough Tickets are now on sale for this year’s Firework Fiesta - the region’s premier firework display and leading charity fundraiser sponsored by Fusion and organised by the Rotary Clubs of Peterborough and Peterborough Minster and Round Table.

Just check our website for a full list of all the events which are happening, including our ever popular Wild Wednesday drop-in craft event during half-term week.

Autumn also sees the opening of our Wildlife and Landscape of Nene Park photo exhibition in Ferry Meadows. So pull on the woolly jumpers and get down to Nene Park and enjoy everything that nature has to offer.

For full details of all our events see www.neneparktrust.org.uk

Peter at Church Farm

Peter Pan is the exciting theme for half term at Church Farm, Stow Bardolph. Come and join in all the fun activities we have on offer. There will be storytime, games and quizzes, free craft activities (Mon-Fri), Pig Racing and much much The event takes place at Peterborough Arena more! Come in your favourite fancy dress outfit, at the East of England Showground on Saturday you might win a prize! There will also be our 1st November and is the biggest of its kind in usual activities with Animal Encounters, Tractor East Anglia, with a spectacular, safe firework Rides etc. Explore our fantastic indoor play area, display provided by the same company behind undercover sandpit and the straw play barn. the celebration fireworks at the recent Commonwealth Games and New Year displays in Have a go on the pedal tractors, trampolines and adventure play area or wander round Church London and Edinburgh.

Wood. Don’t forget to relax and try our fantastic All proceeds from Firework Fiesta are ploughed homemade cakes and lunches and browse our back into Peterborough-based charities and good gift shop for Christmas ideas. We are now taking causes; in the course of its history the event has bookings for our popular Father Christmas Tea raised over £500,000 for local charities.

Party and Breakfast. See website for further The venue offers free parking and large viewing details. www.churchfarmstowbardolph.co.uk including the covered Grandstand and indoor areas. Gates open at 5pm with the parade of Week of Wickedness Guys and bonfire being lit at 6pm. Live music Skylark Maize Maze & Funyard will open its compered by Heart FM, fair rides, food outlets, doors again for the SPOOKTACULAR ‘Week of trade and charity stalls provide great family Wickedness’ from October 25th to 31st. Help us entertainment. find the friendly spooks and discover what has Advance purchase tickets are £3 for children aged under 15 (under 2 years are free); £7 for adults. Tickets are also available on the gate at £5 (child) and £10 (adult). For more details www.fireworkfiesta.co.uk

scared them into the maze in our game ‘Ghost Fluster’. Once you’ve conquered the maze get into the giant funyard for some ghoulish games.

Grab your Nerf Blaster, climb on board the trailer and blast those ghastly ghosts on the ‘Phantom Blaster Tractor Ride’.

Next, place your bets for the Pig Racing’s Trotter Trophy at 1 & 3pm. Pick your favourite piggy, find a place around the track and cheer on your pig… who knows your pig could be a weaner! Keep an eye on our website for our daily events. There is something happening every day like pumpkin carving, where we supply the tools and help you carve your perfect pumpkin.

Skylark Fireworks to Music Spectacular Skylark Garden Centre is proud to present a Fireworks to Music Spectacular on Saturday November 1st, featuring what could be East Anglia’s BIGGEST bonfire. Watch a dazzling display of fireworks light up the night sky by the UK’s leading firework display company, Kimbolton Fireworks, who are responsible for London’s New Year’s Eve fireworks and many other high-profile displays. The fireworks will be choreographed to a soundtrack of popular tracks using the latest digital system for outstanding synchronisation with music.

There will be a fun-fair with rides and stalls, a variety of hot food outlets serving everything from hog roast to fish and chips, hot drinks and licensed bar. Heart FM will be here to entertain you with hits from the charts, competitions and the countdown to the big bang.d, Skylark Maize Maze & Funyard, Manea Road, Wimblington, March PE15 0PE Tel: 01354 741212 www.skylarkmaizemaze.co.uk.

Dazzling displays of autumn colour and half term family adventures Whether it’s enjoying a stroll in a spectacular landscape ablaze with colour or spending time with friends and family jumping in fallen leaves, there are plenty of reasons to love this time of year.

Autumn is here for you to enjoy with all its colour, conkers, orchards full of apples and hedgerow fruits just right for picking. So why not take a family walk this autumn, discover some special places on foot and take part in some ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ events this half term.

Go for a stroll, enjoy the natural beauty of autumn and help support the National Trust’s work as a charity looking after special places for ever, for everyone. To discover some invigorating walks where you can watch the changing colours of the season use the interactive map at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/greatbritishwalk

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Why not visit..

Anglesey Abbey, Garden and Lode Mill This celebrated garden, with its sweeping avenues and classical statues, enjoys an array of foliage in shades of red and gold, making a beautiful backdrop to an autumn walk.

The wonderful yellow leaves of the field maple make a fine entrance to the temple lawn. Berries along the pilgrim’s lawn provide even more colour, while the working water mill and house are full of treasures and offer plenty to do on your visit.The gardens and wildlife area offer a great place to catch brightly coloured leaves as they fall off their trees and to enjoy a game of conkers in the grounds. Set the kids loose to climb the two storey tree house and get a birds-eye view of the Wildlife Discovery Area.

Available for any occasion...

• plasma screens • loud music system • disco lights • Wii dance • karaoke • dance floor • smoke machine • custom made seating • drink optics • champagne ice buckets

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A wide selection of coaches and buses available for hire ranging from 12 to 70 seats with seatbelts.

Disabled access coach with a lift available.

01733 351 694 info@deckerbus.co.uk

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Working Parents

You have nothing to lose - and you (and your child) might just have a lot to gain!

Would you like to find a way of seeing more of your children without compromising your income?

Are you worried about Childcare after school and in the long holidays ?

I can show you a way to address these issues!

For more information please contact me on 07905168466 Fiona Beaton-Thorne Independent Distributor of Forever Living Products Aloe Vera Drinking Gels, Supplements, Skincare, Personal Care Products

www.foreverliving.com Longbridge Manor, Warwick CV34 6RB Member of the direct selling association. hoap0358

Family Photography Special Offer • One hour session on location (choose 10 images) • Personal viewing session • Only £100 for November placed orders

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HELP YOUR FAMILY GET THE MOST OUT OF LIFE

Protect your family help them live healthier, happier lives Over 800 children visit their doctor every day with smoke related infections and health problems in the UK. Children who are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke catch coughs and colds and contract chest infections more easily. They are also at much higher risk of developing lung disease, meningitis and becoming victims of cot death.

Eighty per cent of secondhand smoke is invisible and odourless. It also contains harmful toxins and poisons which, in the long term, can lead to cancer and heart disease. The only way to completely protect children and non-smokers is to make homes and cars entirely smoke free.

We all know that smoking has a serious effect on our health and is the cause of many deaths, but some smokers do not realise the lifelong damage cigarette smoke can have on those around them.

If you smoke, we urge you to stop. Protect your family. Allow them to live healthier, happier lives. We know it is not easy, but our specially trained advisors can help you do it. You really can quit.

Start working towards your family’s smoke free future today.

Get in touch with Peterborough City Council’s Smokefree team to find out more about their smoking cessation service. The council in partnership with the NHS have clinics located in and around Peterborough allowing you quick, easy access to FREE expert advice, support and medication to help you quit and remain smoke free.

Book your child a FREE place on our MoreLife programme.

Email Livehealthy@peterborough.gov.uk or call the team now on 0800 376 56 55 (free from landlines).

Allocating places for 2015 NOW!

You can also visit www.nhs.uk/smokefree to order a free Smokefree kit.

Facts, tips and tools are also available on the site.

Are you concerned about your child’s health?

Is your child overweight, suffering from lack of energy, not eating the right foods or physically inactive?

If this sounds familiar, then you may want to consider booking them onto MoreLife, our fun and exciting ten week sustainable health programme.

Through structured friendly support, children receive the information and encouragement they need to adopt healthier lifestyle choices.

Over the ten weeks, your child will be given the confidence to get active and participate in team games such as basketball and dodge ball.

They will also learn about healthy foods, the benefits of a better diet, share health challenges and break down barriers with other children.

At the end of the programme they will be given access to an online tool that will allow them to keep track of their ongoing health progress.

What do I need to know as a parent or carer?

• The programme is completely free and suitable for 4 to 17 year olds.

• The sessions will be held in Peterborough (venue will be confirmed upon booking) and start in January 2015.

• Each child must be accompanied by a parent or a carer who will be required to participate in the sessions.

• Early booking is advised as places are limited.

• Once your child has completed MoreLife they will be eligible to attend My Fitness Fun, a programme designed to help inspire your child to continue being active and healthy.

How to book For more information or to register your interest, please call our team on 01733 207185 or email livehealthy@peterborough.gov.uk.

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Please be aware that you will be asked questions about your child to assess whether they are eligible to attend.

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Children remain a highly vulnerable roaduser group and they are even more at risk when travelling around in the dark unless they can be seen.

During 2013, 58 children were injured on roads in Peterborough.

As a parent or a carer you can help your children to stay safe on the roads during the darker months, especially at night, on gloomy days and in bad weather by following the tips outlined below.

•

Bright or fluorescent clothes show up best in the daytime, especially in dull or misty weather.

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By night, reflective material is best and shows up in car headlights.

Remember that fluorescent clothing is not visible after dark.

•

If your child doesn’t have any fluorescent/reflective clothing, brighten up existing clothes by adding fluorescent scarves, gloves, bags, reflective strips and slap wraps.

•

When buying new bags and trainers for your children many designs include reflective strips, logos or motifs.

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Cross under bright lights where it is easier to be seen by drivers.

•

Remember it is an offence to cycle at night without a front light, a back red light and a red reflector at the back, so make sure they are clean and in good working order before allowing your child to cycle at dusk or in the dark.

For best all-round protection, wear clothes or safety accessories that combine fluorescent colour with reflective material. This way you can be sure you’re seen all the time, whatever the weather.

Events will take place during the winter months to promote Be Safe Be Seen.

For further information, visit www.saferpeterborough.org.uk

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SPOOKYFUN!

Give each mutant below a name to describe their gruesome malfunctions. Be as creative as you can. Don’t forget to colour them in!

spooky

A walk on the

side!

You don’t have to travel far to take in a good ghost walk. Term Times investigated local spooky stories and some of the ghosts you may even meet on one of our local city ghost walks

TOWINHALLOWEEN ACTIVITY BOOK! The Halloween Activity Book (Only £4.99) is full of hair-raising games and activities to keep your brain ticking, from surviving a zombie attack and making fake scabs, to escaping the graveyard maze and creating the perfect ghost disguise. For more details visit www.busterbooks.com

HOWTOENTER Term Times has 5 copies to give away, simply enter before 20th October with your details via our website. Good luck!

WizardExpress Enjoy over an hour of Spooky fun on our Halloween train

Goody bags

The White Lady The most haunted building in Peterborough is thought to be the Museum. A house and hospital over the last 400 years before becoming the Museum in 1931, it is said to have at least 8 ghosts.

Visitors to the Museum have seen that most traditional of apparitions, a white lady in this room. Who she is and why she haunts the building is unknown. A gentleman visiting the Museum told staff he had been followed by ‘a white figure’. As he rounded each corner of the gallery, he would catch a glimpse of this white female figure behind him. When he looked back the figure was gone. As he rounded the next corner the same thing would happen.

Two ladies visiting the Museum were astonished to get a good look at the white lady. They felt the hairs go up on the back of their necks and saw a white figure materialize glide between them and just vanish.

Cambridge’s Most Haunted Building The Old Master’s Lodge at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, is said to be haunted by an old Master of the College - Dr Henry Butts. He survived an outbreak of the plague in Cambridge in the early 17th century, only to become depressed and, tragically, decided to end his life in the building.

But when the building was remodelled to kitchens and bedrooms in the 19th century, it seemed tto have stirred up his troubled spirit! For over 200 years into the present day his ghost and strange happenings have disturbed the students of the college. Bangings and footsteps are usually reported, and his ghost is often seen at the window, standing by the beds of sleeping students! When Henry Butt’s ghost is seen, it is reported that only half of him appears, wearing black and a large lace collar whilst the painting of him that hangs in the college mysteriously fades in and out.

Current students and visitors experience strange knocking sounds so forceful previous students ripped panelling off the walls to try to stop them - to no avail!

Cambridge’s Strangest Ghost While Cambridge has a number of ghostly animals that stalk the streets, none could be more mysterious than the infamous phantom penguin! A metre-high, black, shiny penguin-like figure has been reported waddling up the Newmarket Road on the way out of Cambridge by a large number of people over the years. This has baffled historians and paranormal investigators alike. One idea is that people are actually seeing the ghost of a 17th century plague doctor, who wore a long black cloak covered with wax and a large mask shaped like a bird’s beak. The beak was stuffed with fragrant herbs and spices as the belief was that bad smells spread the plague to people.

Cambridge Ghost Tours are a team of professional actors, Tarot readers, ghost-hunters and historians who lead ghoulish experiences around the haunted spots and backstreets of Cambridge city centre and its most creepy colleges. Ghost Tours run on Fridays and Saturdays at 7.30 and Halloween holds some spooky special events family tours to meet one of the ‘Witches of Warboys’ and adult tours to experience the real dark side of Cambridge!

Visit www.cambridgeghosttours.com to book.

Memorial Hospital Ghost Until the opening of the new City Hospital near Bretton, the main hospital in Peterborough was the District Hospital on Thorpe Road. The story of medicine on this particular site goes back to 1928. This was the Memorial Hospital, built with funds raised to create an improved facility for the growing city.

Many medical staff who worked in this building reported that the spectral figure of a nurse had been seen walking through the ward, disappearing into a bricked up doorway at the end of the room. Staff believed she was a warning ghost, appearing when a mistake or overdose was about to be made that could harm a patient.

Glow sticks

On train enterainment

DARE TO RIDE? 31st October

Booking essential. £12.50 all classes. charity 264617 T: 01780 784444 www.nvr.org.uk Timetable: search NVR

Wansford Station, (A1) Stibbington, Nr Peterborough PE8 6LR 14

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Dr Henry Butts The ghost tour starts from outside Peterborough Museum on Priestgate.

Special Halloween Ghost Walks run 28th-31st October, at 7.30pm and 8pm. Tickets can be pre-booked from Peterborough Museum (01733 864663). For more details visit www.vivacity-peterborough.com

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Helping children to achieve more

The Children’s University™ is a national organisation that provides 7 to 14 year olds (and 5 to 6 year olds with their families) with exciting and innovative learning activities and experiences outside normal school hours. Now young people in Peterborough and Cambridgeshire have the chance to take part.

Through participation in fun, high quality learning experiences, we aim to grow children and learners who are inquisitive, confident and independent.

It’s about enjoyment and a sense of achievement for all.

Membership of the Children’s University is usually via the school and is open to all students. Each child who becomes a member is issued with a CU Passport To Learning, in which to record their learning journey as they collect stamps and stickers for participating in CU validated Learning Activities both in the school and in the wider community.

Each hour of CU validated learning a young person completes brings the child closer to a Children’s University graduation certificate, presented at a locally organised CU graduation ceremony. CU ceremonies usually take place in local colleges and universities. Young people wear caps and gowns as they celebrate their achievement in front of invited friends and family.

The benefits of being involved in the Children’s University include: Achievement is significantly better at Key Stages 1-3 or children who participate in CU compared with non-attenders.

The further children engage with CU, the better their achievement.

An evaluation by Cambridge University found Certificates, credits, passports and graduations are valued rewards.

University settings help inspire and raise aspirations for children and parents.

CU has helped to make quality learning a reality beyond academic studies.

The key aims of the Children’s University™ are to: Raise aspirations Broaden horizons Ensure access to high quality learning experiences and activities (through its validation process) Develop the understanding that learning can be the ‘satellite navigation system to better places in life’ Celebrate achievement and reward participation through CU certificates.

If you are interested in finding out more about the Children’s University, contact your child’s school to see if it is registered as a CU Learning Destination or get in touch with the Peterborough Children’s University Manager by emailing: peterboroughcu@btinternet.com or cambridgeshirecu@btinternet.com 18

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Alison Hammond Term Times gets into the pantomime spirit by catching up with Alison Hammond from ITV’s This Morning. Talking about her role as The Genie in Aladdin at the Cresset, Peterborough, she spills the beans about school days, Big Brother and Strictly Come Dancing!

Q. What Primary school did you attend?

A. Warren Farm Junior School.

Q. Were you into drama at school?

A. Yes I was. I loved drama from aged 11 onwards and that’s when I joined Central Television Workshop.

Q. Favourite Children’s TV show when you were young?

A. Grange Hill.

Q. What did you collect as a child?

A. I collected bandanas when I was younger. In fact, I still have them and collect them!

Q. What advice would you give yourself at Primary school?

A. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to fit in

Q. Quick Step or Tango?

A. Tango. It’s easier to do and you don’t get so out of breath!

Q. What is the training programme like for Strictly?

A. I am loving it. It’s quite full on as it is all day long. I train whilst Aiden is at school.

It’s great fun and a great way to exercise and keep fit.

Q. Have you seen much of Peterborough yet?

A. Yes, when I acquired my last passport!

Q. Describe your Genie character in three words?

A. Big, bold and beautiful.

Q. Big Brother - fondest memory?

A. Going into the house for the first time and meeting everyone. It was such a buzz.

Q. What has been your favourite panto character up this point in your career?

A. I’m really looking forward to playing the Genie in Aladdin this year, I’ve always been the fairy so it’s great to be playing a different character.

Q. Most interesting interview (This Morning) and why?

A. I loved interviewing Will Smith. He gave a 115% and was the nicest person ever.

Q. Advice for children wanting to follow you in a similar career?

A. Be yourself, always follow your dreams but make sure you keep working hard in school.

Q. Are you a beans or peas person?

A. Beans all the way!

Aladdin runs from 12th to 30th December, 2014, at the Cresset. Call Box Office on 01733 265705 or book online at www.cresset.co.uk

October

Half Term Fun!

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Only £18 per day!

Your special mission includes challenges such as navigation, gadget making, code breaking 5 - 11yrs and spy hunts.

Spy Xperience:

28 October at Werrington Leisure Centre 30 and 31 October at Hampton Leisure Centre We’ll teach you basic bush-craft skills, such as shelter building, tracking and making simple tools. 5 - 11yrs

Adventure Xperience:

28 October at Hampton Leisure Centre Try your hand at fingerprinting, tracking suspects, reconstructing a crime scene 5 - 11yrs and much more!

Dectective Xperience:

27 October at Hampton Leisure Centre 29 October at Werrington Leisure Centre Then this is for you. Have fun and learn to play the way Messi, Ronaldo and many other top players do. 5 - 11yrs

Futsal Xperience:

Dance Xperience:

27 October at Werrington Leisure Centre 29 October at Hampton Leisure Centre Learn some cool dance moves.

Previous dance experience not needed. If you like to dance, 5 - 11yrs you’ll love this day!

27 October at Werrington Leisure Centre 29 October at Hampton Leisure Centre

9.30am-4pm (Extra time: 8.30-9.30am & 4pm-5pm £5 ph.)

T: 08453 716121 E: sara.strid-coughlan@sports-xtra.com www.sports-xtra.com PLEASE BOOK IN ADVANCE 20

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Navigating the wild west of educational apps

HELPING HANDS

As the dust settles after the Back to School frenzy, our minds turn to what we can do to help our young learners through the year. Technology now gives us the perfect platform to help our children’s learning journey. The right app can present a new learning opportunity in an exciting and engaging way.

But take a look on any of the app stores and you will see a host of apps labelled as ‘educational’.

How does one navigate this Wild West of educational apps and find apps that are truly educational?

Where to start?

Think carefully about the skill you’re looking to develop. Do you want your child to improve their reading, help them recognise numbers or widen problem-solving skills? Then, think about how your child likes to learn. Will the familiarity of a known character engage your child?

Or would they benefit in picking up their school studies at home with a recognised learning scheme?

Ask for advice Like most things, the best advice will come from recommendations. Speak to teachers for their advice, or talk to friends at the school gates and see which apps their children are learning the most from. Equally, there are many review sites out there for apps and you can take some advice from expert reviewers.

Take the app for a spin!

There’s no better way to understand if an app is going to deliver the right level of educational benefit to your child than by trying it yourself. You will soon get an understanding of whether the app is too easy or too difficult. All the best apps are rigorously tested to ensure they deliver the right level of engagement for your child. Many apps - like our Read with Biff, Chip and Kipper app -are placed into levels so you can easily monitor progression and comprehension.

No-no’s for education apps And of course there are some features you should try to avoid. Apps that could get your child hooked or those that have in-app purchases without a child-proof mechanism are generally not great choices!

But, our greatest advice for using apps as educational tools, is very simply to get involved yourself. Sit with your child as they work their way through apps - it’s guaranteed they’ll be delighted with your company and it’ll inspire to learn even more!

Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or discount promotion including breakfast, lunch or specials menus, Bank Holidays, or Monday Madness (Mondays 5pm - 11pm). One free kid’s meal when an adult main course is purchased from the main menu. One kid’s meal per voucher.

Available for children up to the age of 11 years. Voucher must be surrendered upon redemption. Valid at a Frankie & Benny’s or Little Frankie’s restaurant excluding airport localtions. Valid until 01.12.14. No photocopies/torn/damaged vouchers will be accepted. No cash value.

By Claire Ridley, Mum of two pre-schoolers and App Enthusiast from Gazoob.

Visit www.gazoob.com for more details.

SNAP! 4 Kids Ltd, works with families to create the best childcare choices for Cambridge parents. Each setting is very different in character, but maintains the core principle of the company - parents are partners. OfSTED highlighted the strength of our relationships with children, parents and staff in our recent ‘good’ report.

Autumn Term This term we have lots of exciting, fun and educational projects planned!

At our Cambridge setting, our extensive baby unit is in the process of re-furbishing and re-equipping the sensory room. There are all sorts of wonderful things arriving that will include, visual, textural and aural experiences for our babies.

At our Hauxton setting it is time to replant the children’s allotment and growing area with a wide range of plants, herbs and vegetables, including, of course, pumpkins!

In the Hauxton baby unit, leader Katie Wright has created new treasure baskets and is introducing Heuristic play. This technique is essentially experienced-based learning, which will encourage discovery, problem solving, and common sense solutions and outcomes.

Both settings are also preparing topics and activities for the festivals at the end of October and beginning of November, which means new displays, art work and rocket building! Inevitably, this means glitter!

Staff News Huge congratulations to Kay Fordham and Sarah Hughes for attaining their foundation degrees. Kay is the group manager for the company and is based at our Cambridge setting. Sarah is the deputy at the setting.

At Hauxton, Katie Wright has joined the team as deputy manager. Katie recently attained her Post Graduate, early years teaching degree and we are delighted she has chosen to join the Snap! 4 Kids family.

If you would like to see SNAP! in action please call to arrange a visit on 01223 477413. Our Staff will be delighted to meet you.

SNAP! 4 Kids - the best choice for family run and family-focused childcare.

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23

Kids and pets

Staying safe around dogs

Many of us have fond memories of our childhood pets - growing up with an animal by your side can be fun and rewarding. The bond that grows can be a strong one, and owning and caring for pets can teach children valuable lessons.

Not everyone is an animal person but for those of you who have extended the family with a pet we’d like to share some health advice for your pet AND your child.

Hi, I’m Woody and I live at Wood Green, The Animals Charity! I help the Education Team keep young people nice and safe around dogs.

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Dogs can make great family pets but even the friendliest of dogs sometimes may need to be left alone.

•

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Health risks for children Pets are susceptible to diseases and infections just like any other living thing. Thankfully, most that affect them cannot be passed onto people.

Parasites, particularly worms, are the main risk. This is partly the reason why vets strongly advise parasite control.

Worms live inside their host and can cause devastating, life-changing and sometimes fatal damage if left untreated. We don’t often think about them because we don’t see them (worms are only seen in faeces when their host is heavily burdened).

Worms transmit to humans by ingestion of their microscopic eggs which can hide in a multitude of places. Young children are particularly vulnerable because they are always grabbing, touching and putting their hands in their mouths. Sandpits are a particularly common hideout for worms as pets like to toilet in sand. A shocking 75% of sandpits are contaminated.

Health risks for pets Most pets will eat any food offered to them. But beware some human foods are not just hugely fattening for our pets but poisonous too (such as chocolate).

Then there are pets that will eat anything - socks, hairbands, toys, cutlery, dummies, glue - you name it, vets have treated an animal that ate it! If you’re lucky the item will pass through causing no damage but sometimes surgery is needed to remove it. Sadly, this isn’t always the end of the story, sometimes internal injuries can be caused, harming the pet seriously.

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Always cover play sandpits when not in use and wash children’s hands after play

Treat your pet regularly with a broad spectrum wormer from your vets (not all wormers kill all types of worms)

Flea treat your pets regularly (fleas can carry worm eggs too)

Don’t allow children to put soil or sand in their mouths

Pick up pet waste and clean litter trays regularly (wash your hands afterwards!)

Don’t allow pets to ‘kiss’ faces

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Eating - It is always best to leave dogs alone when they are eating, whether it is their dinner or a tasty treat.

They may think you are going to take it away and get upset.

Dogs tied up - Never try to say hello to any dogs that are tied up outside your school or shop. Dogs that are tied up can get really worried if strangers come to say hello because they can’t get away. Even more importantly there is NO owner to ask if you can stroke the dog.

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Poorly Dogs - Dogs that are feeling poorly don’t normally want to be fussed or stroked. If you’re poorly you may like to lie on the sofa watching telly or be snuggled in bed. You wouldn’t want someone coming along and bothering you – this is the same for dogs.

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Kisses and cuddles - Dogs don’t always like to be kissed and cuddled. If they come to you for attention, why not given them a gentle stroke instead to show you love them.

Minimise the risk to your pet by ensuring nothing is left within reach (especially toys as these often smell enticing). If you think your pet has eaten something it shouldn’t, take them to the vet immediately – it could save their life!

Remember!

Sleeping - When dogs are fast asleep they don’t want to be stroked and woken up. Stroking dogs when they are asleep can frighten them and make them jump, so it is best to leave them alone.

Remember there’s lots of safe fun you can have with your dog. Why not take them for a family walk to a new place for an adventure or teach them a new trick with an adult?

Meeting a new dog safely Dogs are lovely and saying hello to dogs when out and about is great as long as you follow my 3 simple rules to keep you and the dog safe: 1.

You should always be polite and ask the owner if it is safe to stroke the dog. Make sure you have an adult with you.

2.

Next, you should stand still a little way away from the dog and hold your hand out so the dog can come to you for a sniff

3.

Then the best place to stroke a dog is down their shoulder. Remember to stay on your feet at all times!

Top tip – Watch our new dog safety video for more great advice www.woodgreen.org.uk/pet_advice/dog_safety

Wood Green Competition!

Wood Green, The Animals Charity, is one of the largest pet rehoming centres in Europe and is home to a wide variety of animals including, dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, chickens and goats. They are offering one lucky reader and a friend a chance to win an ‘Animal Carer Experience Day’ at the Charity’s Godmanchester Centre in Cambridgeshire.

You will get the chance to meet some of the animals looking for their forever homes, clean out the rodents, health check a guinea pig and go behind the scenes in our vet surgery. You’ll also feed the goats and chickens and make enrichment items such as cat fishing rod toys, rabbit hay kebabs and dog activity bottles. Finish off the day getting hands on with some dog training! This prize is available 18th or 20th February 2015.

To enter, simply tell us the name of the Wood Green education mascot?

Enter through our website, by post or via our email address (see page 3). Closing date is 5th November 2014.

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25

Karate Kids!

First Aid Courses

Back in the Seventies when martial arts hit our shores, it attracted the interest of mainly adults.

Then, in the Eighties, when Karate Kid was shown at cinemas, kids and teenagers flocked to karate schools.

It seems that every century we are introducing a new era in media around martial arts and so the age group interest increases.

PAEDIATRIC COURSE DATES FOR 2014

younger children…and the Little Ninjas were born!

13th & 14th October 10th & 11th November 8th & 9th December

At our school, the Little Ninjas have their own belt system When I started teaching 25 years separate to our normal curriculum ago, it was mainly adults and a few grades and their last grade is the first grade in our children’s older children. It didn’t take me to programme. This makes the long to realise that although the enthusiasm was there, something transition into our children’s in my class system had to change to beginner’s programme very easy once they have completed our be able to retain this fast-growing Little Ninja syllabus. Each class interest from younger and younger children. Through the involvement covers one of eight core skills with of my eldest daughter Lucy, who won a wide variety of activities that are a world silver representing GBR, I both fun and educational. Why not come along and introduce your started to become more aware of child to a great sport? the benefits of a syllabus aimed at

£75 per person Venue: Centre 68, Westgate Church, Peterborough

E: denise@fenlandfirstaid.co.uk

For more information about the Little Ninjas programme at Hicks Karate School of Excellence, Peterborough, contact Andrew Hicks on 01733 810043 & 07974196256 or visit

BOOK NOW: T: 01733 351909 www.fenlandfirstaid.co.uk

www.littleninjaskarate.co.uk

FARMLAND MUSEUM & DENNY ABBEY A fascinating & family friendly place to visit OPEN: 12 – 5pm weekdays 10.30am-5pm weekends & bank holidays

Brilliant Birds!

Come and marvel at over 200 birds of prey during a day at the Raptor Foundation near St Ives, Cambridgeshire See over 40 different species - from a Little Owl to a 40-year-old Golden Eagle The Foundation rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes injured wild birds of prey and unwanted pets

PUMPKINS & SPOOKS Sunday 26 October (10.30am – 4pm)

Three daily flying displays at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm

Spooky funat Denny including pumpkin carving, apple bobbing, broom stick races & spooky songs.

Enjoy lunch in the Silent Wings tearoom, browse around the ‘Mad about Owls’ gift shop and, for the children, there is a playground and pond

Enter our competition for the best decorated pumpkin or squash!

Other attractions include an arts & craft supply shop, the Bobin & Sew, Polka Dot gift shop and the Animal Experience

*event admission prices apply.

HALF-TERM HALLOWEEN FAMILY DROP-IN SESSIONS Join us on Wednesday 29 and Thursday 30 October, between 12 - 4pm, for our popular activity afternoons. Normal admission price plus 50p per child for materials.

Bring this it adm advert to

Visit the museum’s website for details of all our events including children’s drop-in sessions.

Admission charged. Picnic & play area. Gift Shop. Tearoom open at weekends & bank holidays.

FREE PARKING

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

T: 01223 860988

FAMILY TICKETS AVAILABLE

Waterbeach, Cambridgeshire CB25 9PQ. 26

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1 CHILD FREE

ing with pay adult

FAMILY TICKET

JUST £17.60 (2 adults & up to 3 children)

GIFT VOUCHERS (Valid for one year) available for Experience Days, twilight flying, photographic days & accommodation stays

Raptor Foundation

E: info@farmlandmuseum.org.uk

www.farmlandmuseum.org.uk

Bring a picnic and stay lo nger

T: 01487 741140 E: info@raptorfoundation.org.uk Reg. Charity No. 289555

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www.raptorfoundation.org.uk The Heath, St Ives Road, Woodhurst, Cambs PE28 3BT

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27

Monster Alert!

Santa Pod’s annual fireworks extravaganza - Flame & Thunder - returns on Saturday, 25th October, 2014.

Another show-stopping line-up of entertainment both on and off the drag strip will include drag racing, jet cars, stunts, air displays, bonfire, fireworks and more!

There’s a diverse selection of drag vehicles poised and ready to burn some rubber for one last time before the track closes for winter. Entertainment is the order of the day so expect long, smoky burnouts, wheels-up action and wild rides throughout and maybe even a couple of fire burnouts too.

Two Top Fuel dragsters will be making passes throughout the day. Watching these nitro-burning monsters put pedal to the metal in the winter air is a sight to behold!

Bringing a heart-warming glow to proceedings (quite literally!) will be a number of flame-throwing jet powered vehicles. The list includes the record-holding FireForce jet Funny Car, Split Second jet Dragster, an Austin Mini, a BMW Mini, three jet-powered Go Karts and a jet-powered bike!

The Live Action Arena will be hosting no less than three displays of tyresmoking, air-grabbing, car-crushing action. Providing the tyre smoke will be Team Maximum Lock, all the way from Malta with their Nissan Skylines, multiple world record-holder Terry Grant with his fleet of vehicles and crowd favourite Lee Bowers on his Kawasaki motorbikes. Jason Smyth will be jumping for the skies with his adrenalin tour quad and motorbike stunt show and, of course, we have a pair of monster trucks, Podzilla and Swamp Thing.

2 Family WIN Tickets!

New for 2014 is the Savage Skills trials bike stunt displays and back by popular demand is Titan the Robot and the Wall of Death!

There are a number of hot seats available offering you the ride of a lifetime.

We have drift rides with some of the UK’s top drifters, rides in the back of a full-size monster truck or how about a helicopter ride?

As darkness falls, the Flame & Thunder show really comes into its own with a massive bonfire lit in true Santa Pod style with the jet mini, huge fireworks display triggered by the final jet car run and, new for 2014, an aerial stunt display from Europe’s only pyrotechnic aerial display team!

There really will be something going on everywhere you look. We haven’t yet mentioned the FREE ice rink, live stage, static shows from steam engines, supercars, a selection of Show & Shine winners and loads more!

FIND OUT MORE: T: 01234 782828 www.santapod.com

Term Times has 2 sets of family tickets to win to Flame & Thunder on 25th October. Just answer the following question: What are the names of the two monster trucks?

Submit your entry (see contact details on page 3) by 17th October.

Visit once and receive a 2nd vist for

PAY ONCE...PLAY TWICE! * FREE before Friday *Offer runs Sat to Fri

Spooktacular HalloweeN FUN Halloween is coming! So grab your mask or broom as Fun Farm Spalding will be delighted to be your host!

Little Horrors of Huntingdon!

From Ghosts to Ghouls, Vampires to Vixens, you’re all invited to our annual Halloween Spooktacular Disco on Friday, 31st October from 6.30pm.

Our Spooktacular disco is an action-packed fright-filled night of ghoulish fun and our devilish DJ will keep you and your little ones entertained all evening! Remember to come in your best Halloween dress as everyone will have a chance to be our fancy dress champion! With our phantom photographer available, you can take home a photo of your night to remember.

Alongside our fantastic 3 floors of action-packed play equipment, we offer a night of ghostly games, with lots of petrifying prizes for our Halloween champions. The bravest guests will also be invited to join us on our walk of screams. Even the ghosts get scared!

The evening is completed by the judging of the fancy dress competition by our special guest judges. Who will reign as our Halloween champion?

More details at www.funfarm.co.uk or by calling 01406 373 444.

WIN

5 pairs of tickets

Win one of 5 pairs of tickets to the Halloween disco. Just tell us which year was the film ‘Ghost Busters’ released? To enter follow the instructions on page 3. Closing date is 22nd October.

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Gallop along to the Huntingdon race meeting on Sunday, 2nd November, for the Little Horrors Halloween party when accompanied children 17 and under are admitted free of charge!

Gallop along to the Huntingdon race meeting on Sunday, 2nd November, for the Little Horrors Halloween party when accompanied children 17 and under are admitted free of charge!

Quad Bikes

There will be a variety of free Halloween-themed entertainment including Pumpkin ride simulator, Knock down the Ghost stall with prizes, ball in the witch’s hat with prizes, Halloween fun props and face painting*! Gerald will be here in his Halloween outfit so make sure you come along to see him!

For the adults, there will be 7 thrilling races. The fun begins at 10.45am, with the first race at 12.45pm, and the last race at 4pm. There are plenty of places to eat and drink on the day as well as restaurant experiences available to book in advance! Remember to book your tickets in advance from just £13.50 at www.huntingdon-racecourse.co.uk or by calling 0844 579 3007. *Entertainment may be subject to change dependant on weather.

WIN

5 pairs of tickets

TermTimes has 5 pairs of admission tickets for the party to win.

Simply follow entry instructions on page 3 by answering this question: How many spooky cats can you spot on this page?

Closing date is 27th October.

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Call to book yo ur tickets TODAY!

Our popular disco is back!

Fri 31st October

6.30 - 8.30pm

ild £6.99 per ch EE FR 1s r de un Adults &

Laser Bowl Visit our warm, cosy, indoor soft play centre, have lots of fun with roller squeezes, ball pools and slides.

Compact ten pin bowling

Play Laser Storm for as little as £2

when Fun Farm admission is paid

“The most fun for miles...whatever the weather!”

01406 373444 www.funfarm.co.uk High Road, Weston, Spalding PE12 6JU

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Puffin

Books for

BOOK REVIEW

Children

The Eye of the Falcon by Michelle Paver The third book in the epic five-part Bronze Age series, Gods and Warriors, readers will be kept on the edge of their seats in this dramatic new quest, exploring themes of courage, friendship and freedom against a backdrop of gods and myths in a stunningly vivid ancient Mediterranean landscape. Return to a time of chieftains, warriors, magic and ritual as the riveting Mediterranean Bronze Age adventure of Hylas and Pirra continues.

Solving a train crash mystery Some of the best adventures take place on summer holidays with your grandparents. Holiday at Lunan Bay is the latest edition from the Peter’s Railway Series, where Peter, his Grandpa (and sometimes the rest of the family!) have many railway-related escapades.

For those not acquainted with these charming family stories, Peter’s Grandpa has built his own miniature steam railway across his farm. It not only links two villages, but even carries children to the local schools. The author takes his inspiration from a love of everything mechanical and having spent many childhood hours on a friend’s farm where an actual miniature railway operated.

But this adventure is not set on a farm. While on holiday in Scotland, Peter and his family stumble across a true railway accident that needs investigating.

Located between the Dundee and Montrose railway line is the idyllic holiday location of Lunan Bay where, in summer, ice cream and sand castles are the staple fare. However this is also the location of a strange railway collision no-one was hurt - that happened between two engines 56 years ago.

Travel from past to present (and back again!) with Peter and his Grandpa as they look for clues to find out what really happened to cause this true story.

Each page is illustrated with intriguing maps and drawings to explain the story, the adventure and some technical aspects of steam engines. Who do they meet, what clues to they find and how did the crews get it so wrong?

Read on and Peter will explain all…

All books in the Peter’s Railway and Little Peter’s Railway series are self-published by Chris Vine and illustrated by John Wardle. For more details and to purchase visit www.petersrailway.com

Loyal Creatures by Morris Gleitzman A moving story of an Australian boy’s journey towards a very special kind of bravery in the First World War. It’s 1914. War. ‘Do I want to go? Course I do – as long as my horse Daisy is coming with me.’ Who wouldn’t want to go to distant exotic places and give a pack of bullies what for and have the sort of experiences you just don’t get around here?

‘Forget it,’ says Dad. ‘You’re too young.’ But I’ll be sixteen in three months’ time…

Danger is Everywhere by David O’Doherty This is a brilliantly-humorous, survival handbook for avoiding danger of all kinds, written by a comedian for all young readers who are fans of funny character-lead series such as Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Mr Gu, and fact books such as Horrible Histories. The delusions of the world’s only dangerologist, Doctor Noel Zone, features tales of made-up things that could happen...but probably won’t!

BOOKS FOR

WIN YOUR SCHOOL This competition is for anyone to participate in, with three winning entries gaining these books for their school. Visit our website to enter or post your details to our address on page 3. Closing date 7th November 2014.

SNOW QUEEN

WIN TICKETS

The Snow Queen will be brought to life for everyone to enjoy on Saturday, 6th December, at the Stamford Arts Centre (shows at 11.30am and 3pm).

Filled with the strange beauty of ice-cold winter and the warmth of true love, this Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale translates perfectly into one of Image Musical Theatre’s much loved participation musicals.

PETER’S RAILWAY COMPETITION In this latest Peter’s Railway book, in which year did the train crash take place? Find out at PetersRailway.com 3 lucky prize winners will receive a Peter’s Railway 3D bookmark and a Peter’s Railway badge. All other entrants will receive a copy of the Peter’s Railway e-book. Closing date is 7th November. See page 3 for entry details.

When a boy is tricked and whisked away to the frozen north, it is only the love and loyalty of Gerda - his childhood friend - that is powerful enough to rescue him.

COMPETITION WINNERS Name

Location

Competition

Ruby Pope Jasmine Dixon

Buckden Peterborough

Raptor Foundation Puffin

Ellie Clifton

St Neots

Puffin

Alexander Warr

Peterborough

DVD

Winghoi Tang

Spalding

DVD

Ruby Parker

St Ives

DVD

Susannah Beston

Chatteris

DVD

Alice Gilbey

Fenbstanton

DVD

For ticket details, visit www.stamfordartscentre.com

Ben Jeewan

Cambridge

Reading Chest Books

Jacob Bearman

Peterborough

Wicksteed Family Ticket

Ellie Stuffins

Thorney

Wicksteed Family Ticket

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Every child remembers their early years’ Christmas shows and this will certainly be one to recall. The whole audience will enjoy singing along to the chorus songs, bringing to life The Snow Queen.

Win a family ticket consisting of 4 seats, one of which must include at least one child. To enter, tell us who wrote this famous fairy tale. Please follow entry instructions on page 3. Closing date 7th November.

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OMG Accessories Accessories • Bags • Jewellery • Watches

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Opening Times: Mon to Sat 9am to 6 pm (up to 3 hours free parking)