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Well, with what could traditionally be described as the most miserable month of the year behind us, it’s time to look forward to the up and com ing brighter months of the year. February of course is significant for us parents, as we brace ourselves for halfterm and the usual logistical challenges of balancing work, finances and children’s entertainment, whilst trying to remain calm and sane at the same time. For couples, there is Valentines Day and yes folks, once again it is on 14th February. In fact it’s the same date every year, so for you men out there, we know you can remember every football fixture, who won Captains Day at your golf club ten years ago, and exactly who bought the last round of drinks at any given pub, so as far as we women are concerned, forgetting a card on Valentines Day will definitely go down as selective memory and a black mark (or should I say blackmailing tool) to be used against you for the rest of the year! Don’t say you haven’t been warned :) So, as we plough into 2015, do keep in touch with us and let us know what’s going on in your area. If you have an event or news to share with your local community, please just contact us on the numbers or email below or message us on Facebook! .
Tel: 0800 038 5001 Mob: 07759 536494 In and Around Magazines cover: West Drayton . Iver . Denham . Uxbridge Ickenham . Ruislip Angela Fisher 0800 038 5001 / 07759 536494 info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk
www.inandaroundpublishing.co.uk 4
Cake & Bake: Red Velvet Cake 6 Property Matters 10 Local Artist Reg Fisher 10 Interiors: How to create a romantic style 12 Finance: PPI is it still worth considering? 14 Karen Munro: Careers 16 Breakthrough for Sciatica Sufferers 18 Wordsearch 18 RSPCA Rehoming Appeal 20 The Golden Years: Memories of 50 years ago 22 Children’s Puzzle Page 24 Zoe Hart 26 Short Story: The Crafty Catch 28 Coffee Break Puzzles 32 Local Events 34 Books: Coupling 36 Mobile Motoring Madness 38 What’s on at the Compass Theatre 42 Beauty: Hot Hair Tips 46 Health: Tackling Tinnitus 48 And Another Thing 50 Puzzle Solutions 51 Hobbies: Get Ready for the Cycling Revolution 52 Citizens Advice Bureau 54 Useful Telephone Numbers 54 Technology: Something in the Air 56 Reader Holidays 58 Travel: The Spirit of Bagan Myanmar 60 Used Cars: Prestige Executive Saloons 62 Denham Pets Corner 64 Wildlife Zone 66 Denham Against HS2 68 Garden Feature 70 Clubs, Groups & Classes 72, 74 & 76 Recipe: Rib Eye Steak with Red Wine Glaze 78
We are grateful for the support of local businesses whose adverts appear in this publication and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions, claims made by advertisers or endorse companies, products or services. This publication, its contents and advert designs are © of In and Around Publishing. Any copying or reproduction in part or fully, is strictly forbidden without our prior consent.
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Cake & Bake
Red Velvet Cake Serves 8 Ready in 1 hour 30 minutes plus cooling and chilling
This luscious cake is an American classic and has a vibrant red coloured chocolate sponge filled with a tangy soft cheese frosting and dark chocolate icing. THE CAKE • 300g plain flour • 2 tsp bicarbonate of soda • 4 tbsp cocoa powder • 235g butter, softened, plus extra for greasing • 300g caster sugar • 3 medium eggs, beaten • 200ml buttermilk • 1� tsp vanilla extract • 2 tbsp liquid red food colouring THE CHOCOLATE ICING • 140g plain chocolate, broken into pieces • 75g butter, diced • 75ml double cream THE FROSTING • 55g unsalted butter, softened • � tsp vanilla extract • 115g icing sugar, sifted • 115 g full-fat soft cheese • 1 tbsp mini chocolate chips, to decorate 6
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4. Grease and line the bases of 3 x 20cm round sandwich tins. Sift the flour, bicarbonate of soda and cocoa powder into a bowl and set aside. 2. Place the butter and sugar in a large bowl and using an electric whisk beat together until pale and fluffy. Gradually beat in the eggs then beat in the buttermilk, vanilla extract and red food colouring. Fold in the sifted flour mixture. 3. Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared tins and level the surfaces. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until risen and just firm to the touch. Leave the sponges in the tins for 10 minutes then turn out onto a wire rack and leave to cool completely. 4. To make the chocolate icing, put the chocolate and butter in a large heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Leave until melted. Remove the bowl from the heat and stir the mixture until smooth. Cool for 2-3 minutes then stir in the cream. Leave at room temperature for 20-30 minutes then chill in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the icing is just thick enough to spread. 5. To make the frosting place the softened butter in a bowl and beat in the vanilla extract. Gradually beat in the sifted icing sugar until very smooth and thoroughly blended, then beat in the soft cheese. Don’t overbeat or the icing will start to go runny. 6. To assemble the cake, sandwich all three sponges together with twothirds of the frosting and nearly all of the chocolate icing (reserve 1-2 tbsp for decorating the top of the cake). Spread the rest of the frosting around the sides and over the top of the cake, smoothing it with a spatula. 7. Gently reheat the rest of the chocolate icing in the microwave on low setting for a few seconds – it needs to be just soft enough to pipe. Spoon the icing into a paper piping bag and snip off the end. Pipe swirls of icing on top of the cake then sprinkle with chocolate chips. Chill in the fridge until ready to eat. TIP - To add an extra sweetness and colour to the cake, place 2 tbsp granulated sugar in a bag with a little red food colouring paste. Rub the bag between your fingertips to colour the sugar. Use a palette knife to coat the coloured sugar around the side of the frosted cake. Only add this final touch just before serving the cake otherwise the sugar will dissolve into the frosting.
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Property
The overnight reform of the stamp duty system in early December took everyone by surprise but, now that the dust has settled, we can start to as sess what the potential impact of the changes will be on the housing market. The old system massively distorted the market, particularly around the thresholds, because stamp duty was levied on the entire purchase price of the property. Consequently, it was pointless valuing a property at £128k or £260k; the sale price would simply be negotiated down to the nearest thresh old. Also, because a mortgage can’t cover the cost of stamp duty, it unfairly penalised first time buyers, particularly in expensive areas like London. Under the new system, the stamp duty on a £128k purchase price will be a mere £60, a saving of £1220, and on a £260k purchase it will be £3000, a saving of £4800. Therefore, I think there will be fairly strong price increases for houses in the £125 175k bracket and in the £250300k bracket. At the other end of the scale, there will probably be hefty
falls in the more desirable areas of London and the Home Counties. More significantly (and perhaps more importantly) the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors is pre dicting an increase in the number of house sales of between 2 and 5% across the country in 2015, although they expect that figure to be closer to 1% in London. This is good news, sales volumes have been dwindling worryingly since the new rules on mortgage lending were introduced last year. Better still, the bulk of that increase is expected to be delivered by first time buyers, a breed that has been absent from the market for too long. House prices have been moderating for a few months now and in London some pundits estimate that the average house price has fallen by £30k. London house price inflation has been worrying Mark Carney whereas elsewhere the market has been disappointingly flat. Positive predictions across the board then.
After his recent exhibition in the library, Reg has been kindly invited to show more works from March 1st 2015. The exhibits will include a range of pictures including oils, pastels and mixed me dia. Reg Fisher (age 88) is a local artist living in Iver Heath. Many of the works on show in Iver Heath Library have been shown in major London Exhibi tions such as the Royal Institute, the Wardour Galley and the Guildhall. He has also exhibited with the United Artists Society, the Society of Graphic Fine Arts, of which he is a past member and the Armed Forces Art Society, for Reg was in the Royal Air Force at the end of the last war and had sculptures in the Royal Society of British Artists annual exhibition. 10
Reg also had oneman shows in Wembley, Ux bridge and Iver Heath Libraries and two exhibi tions in the Amberley Galleries in Harefield. His work reflects a keen interest in travel, as can be seen in the March show at the library. Reg was employed professionally as a commer cial artist, technical illustrator and graphic de signer in London. Reg Fisher is also available for private tuition or advice. Ring 01753 653461 His March exhibition is at Iver Heath Library, St Margaret's Close, Iver Heath, Bucks, SL0 0DA.
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Home & Interiors How to create romantic style at home soft and tactile fabrics such as angora, mohair or cashmere, or perhaps warm and snuggly wool or felt. Choose floral patterns that look as if they’re worn or faded (definitely not digitally printed or modern in style) – you just can’t beat classics such as roses, hydrangeas, peonies and the like, especially when they’re hand-drawn or block-printed. Decorative details are important, too: embroidery, borders, ruffles and scalloped edgings will enhance even the plainest of fabrics, and since a little goes a long way there is no need to break the bank to achieve the desired effect.
trimmed with lace, embroidery or buttons, while in the kitchen an old-fashioned dresser is just the thing, piled with vintage patterned crockery.
Who wouldn’t fall in love with romantic style? Feminine, delicate and oh-so pretty, this is a timeless look that will work in all styles of home, from a bijoux city apartment to a grand country pile, says Katherine Sorrell Make your home a haven from everyday worries with a romantic decorating style that takes you worlds away from the busy bustle of modern life. It’s a look that is eternally charming and appealing, pretty as a picture, soft and dreamy and completely irresistible.
The first ingredient? Sumptuous fabrics, of course. Think lacey trims around the edges of pillowcases, napkins or cushions, or even entire panels (especially vintage or antique) hung across a window or thrown over a bed. Gorgeous. Sheers are also perfect for this look. Employ organza, chiffon, tulle, georgette and voile in opulent swathes and gathers, and layer them with crisp cottons and linens for interest and appeal. Since how things feel is just as important as how they look, add some deliciously 12
As for furniture, opt for simple, country-style or shabby chic furnishings in natural pine or else painted in pale and pretty colours. You may wish to go to town in the bedroom with a canopied or half-tester bed (if you’re on a budget, simply hang generous amounts of hemmed, sheer fabric from a hoop above the bed for a similar effect), combined with blissfully beautiful bed linen: perhaps crisp white cotton edged with drawn threadwork and topped with a vintage chintzy eiderdown or satin quilt. In the living room, opt for a plump and (of course) comfortable sofa, chaise longue or armchair in a traditional style, piled with cushions and bolsters
No romantic home would be complete without atmospheric lighting, which is best achieved by combining a variety of light sources – a central chandelier perhaps, together with a selection of wall and table lights, the latter small and graceful rather than large and imposing. Don’t forget that twinkly fairy lights and a selection of candles or tea lights (preferably scented) will really add atmosphere to your home. And speaking of finishing touches, choose surface finishes that are shiny and reflective, from mirror to pearl, polished metal to glazed ceramics. Accessorise with fine china teacups and cake stands, delicately etched glassware and bone-handled cutlery. One or two heart-shaped pieces add to the effect – as will a scattering of small ornaments, from birds and animals to female figures. Last, but definitely not least, add flowers everywhere possible, in vases and milk bottles, jam jars and other informal containers. Roses or ranunculas, alliums or asters – informal arrangements of old-fashioned blooms with a lovely scent will be sure to bring romance to any home. By Katherine Sorrell Main Image: These embellished cushions have a gentle and romantic feel. From £19.99, all Retreat Home, tel 01628471056; www.retreat-home.com
BUCKINGHAM HOUSE LUXURY CARE HOME Gerrards Cross
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Contact us now for details on care and recruitment Tel: 01753 468200 Email: viewings@mmcg.co.uk Web: www.mmcgcarehomes.co.uk Nursing Care
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Finance Payment Protection Insurance: Is It Still Worth Considering? By Ann Haldon www.cornerstonewebcontent.com Payment Protection Insurance is intended to protect loan and credit card repayments should you be made redundant, have an accident or fall ill and can no longer work. On the face of it taking out such a policy seems like a good idea, but delve a little deeper and you’ll probably find endless exclusions and get-out clauses that severely limit the amounts paid out. These policies have been seriously mis-sold in the past, with excessive charges being levied, buying pressure put on borrowers, and scant information provided at the time of sale. The irony is that these policies were unfit for purpose during a time of deep recession – a time when they were needed the most. We take a look at the circumstances in which you might still choose a PPI policy, and help you decide whether they are even worth considering. The Financial Ombudsman service has been inundated with PPI mis-selling cases. Around 200,000 claims have been made in recent years and to date, billions of pounds in repayments made to consumers.
In the wake of all this, is PPI still worth consideration?
The stress caused by being 14
unable to work due to sickness or redundancy is all-consuming, and on the face of it, Payment Protection Insurance is a great concept. Why wouldn’t you want to protect large mortgage or loan repayments in this way? This still holds true today, but as with any financial product you need to carry out due diligence as to its suitability for your particular circumstances. Decide whether it is any better for you than Statutory Sick Pay, and if the exclusions/terms and conditions are too stringent.
Carry out your own due diligence
• Go over the small print in fine detail- particularly, eligibility for payouts and any exclusions. Check and double check anything ambiguous with a professional financial advisor that you trust, and don’t be pressured into buying it by anybody. • Make sure there are no existing insurance policies in existence, or workplace benefits that would come into force in the event of being unable to work. Some life insurance policies have clauses that include this, and it’s easy to forget they are there. • Don’t assume that the lender’s policy is the best one for you. It is in their
interests to get you to sign up for a policy, but not necessarily in yours. Carry out research on other providers who may offer a product more suited to your unique circumstances. A PPI or similar policy can be full of exclusions - enough to make you wonder whether anyone actually receives any benefit. Common exclusions include self-employment, dismissal as opposed to redundancy, mental ill-health including stress, and being unable to work due to back pain. As far as PPI is concerned, strict selling regulations now make it unlikely that you will be mis-sold in the same way, but you still need to focus on your actual need for this product in the first instance. If you decide to go ahead, ask for a copy of the policy, read through it again and keep it safely filed away. Fees and charges for PPI can add a considerable amount to the loan, especially if you pay them upfront, as interest will be charged on the total. You should be offered the facility to pay monthly, which may be a cheaper alternative in the long-run, but make sure the lender cannot increase these premiums once the policy is underway.
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Recruiting NOW Foster carers and adopters needed
Find out more at our information events Thursday 12 February, 10am to 12 midday Tuesday 24 February, 6.30pm to 8.30pm Civic Centre, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW Please arrive five minutes before the start time.
Book your place today
fost-adopt@ hillingdon.gov.uk 0800 783 1298
www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fost-adopt 15
Karen Munro Careers (Feb15)_Layout 1 21/01/2015 13:20 Page 1
Karen Munro - Career Coach www.munrocareers.co.uk #@munrocareers www.facebook.com/munrocareers Karen is a professional Career Coach providing individual support in all aspects of Career Development including effective CV Coaching and Interview Skills Techniques, Networking and successful job searching.
A member of the Career Development Institute and registered with the Careers Professional Alliance, a qualified Careers Practitioner and Trainer, she works with both private and business clients around Hillingdon, South Bucks and Middlesex. Karen is currently facilitating workshops and offering individual coaching to Military Personnel leaving the Armed Forces at RAF Northolt, helping them through their transition to civilian employment. Karen writes for a number of careers focused and military resettlement magazines and regularly contributes to ‘In and Around’ sharing her practical experience with her local community. HOORAY it’s February! You have survived the most depressing month of the calendar – January. You have propped up the UK’s economy by grabbing bargains in the sales; promised yourselves to lose those extra pounds put on over Christmas; signed back up with the local gym; started eating healthily and some of you may have even avoided alcohol for a whole month as part of the Cancer Research Dryathlon! Phew! Now we can reap the benefits as February is here and it’s the month of ‘love and romance’ with Valentine’s Day just around the corner. So this month’s article is all about ‘Love’... and how to ‘Love Your Job’! The New Year is the most popular time for people to quit their job, or feel despondent about their careers. But don’t be too hasty, the grass may seem greener elsewhere, but in this current economic climate, it probably isn’t. So try changing your attitude to your job and start making small changes to make it more rewarding. Remember your job does not define you, but how you do your job does. Having the right attitude, such as having a positive frame of mind and demonstrating a ‘can do’ attitude to those around you will also have a profound influence on the people you work with. There are times when you can’t control your situation, but you can always choose how you behave in it. If you are one of those people who arrive in the office on a Monday morning complaining about the journey, or the weather, or about how fast the weekend went and how you’d rather be doing something else, think again. Not only will your negative attitude bring your colleagues around you down, but it will bring you down. 16
Here’s how to start to love your job... If you change your attitude and start reflecting a positive outlook, people will really notice. They will start to ask you about this ‘new you’ and what’s changed? Make it your mission to see how many people you can influence. Get them involved in making your workplace a better place to be. Start small, maybe just have a big clear out in the office and make it look and feel nicer. Rather than sitting at your desk with a sandwich everyday try inviting your colleagues out for lunch. Stop focusing on the money. We all live to our means and we will always want more – no matter how much we get. So stop using it as an excuse. It’s a well know fact that pay is not biggest motivator to being satisfied at work. Money may have attracted you to the job in the first place, but won’t keep you there. If you had an absolutely horrid job and was well paid for it, it would only be a matter of time until you would want to leave! Getting paid is only one small part of what you do; your work has to be more than just a payslip to be fulfilling. Love your job. Think about the significance of what you do. Really think about your contribution and all positive things you have accomplished. Try to think back on why you took the job in the first place and how delighted you were when you got the job. Perspective plays a huge role in personal satisfaction. What impact could you make now in your job and within your organisation? Are there things you could actually change for the better and improve? Everyone wants to know they are loved... and work is no different. Start to thank your colleagues and give them positive feedback. People want to be appreciated and told “well done!” and “good job!” You can create that culture in your office today – just watch it flourish and spread through the office and feel good about the reactions you get. So, when you get up to go to work tomorrow, remember to put a big smile on your face and think about what a great day you are going to have and love your job! Start to love your job!
Karen
“unlocking your career potential”
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The RSPCA Hillingdon, Slough, Windsor, Kingston, District Branch are looking loving homes for these special cats that have been through so much, Sophie came in with a trauma to her eye and unfortunately where unable to save the eye, May bell was found with no tail these are just some of the cats that have been brought to the center injured and unwanted looking for a second chance for a happily ever after. Found in a warehouse and brought to us as a stray, we have no idea how this beautiful girl lost her tail. Someone has obviously cared for her at some stage but she was not microchipped and sadly noone has come forward to claim her. Maybell is not only a strik ingly attractive cat but also has the most loving and affectionate nature and is now looking for a new family to share her love with, although she would prefer to be an only cat. Please get in touch if you can give May bell the home and love she’s been missing. Sophie was brought in to our Clinic as a stray after being found in a very sad state. She had an untreat able ulcer on the surface of her eye, probably caused by some sort of trauma. The only way to give this little girl the chance of a future, was to carry out surgery to remove the eye. Following lots of special recuperative care, lovely Sophie is now fully healed and really look ing forward to finding a new home and a lifetime of love and attention. After all she’s been through, Sophie deserves a special second start in life – can you help? we have had a litter of hamsters handed in, and we are needing accommodation for each one if you have a spare hamster cages that you could donate please call us or drop it down to our clinic in Hillingdon we would greatly appreciate it. If you think you can offer one of our animals a loving home then please ring RSPCA Hillingdon Branch on 01895 833417 or visit our we b s i t e www.rspcahillingdonclinic.org.uk to download an appli cation form 20
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In and Around
holidays
Golden Years Memories of 50 Years Ago by Ted Bruning
Free Drinks
equipped French July 8th 1959, counted as invaded the “advisers”). north and found When Kennedy took office themselves in 1961 the Cold War was facing Americangetting a whole lot hotter. The equipped Viet Minh Pentagon wanted to send in guerrillas. The ground troops, but JFK refused Viet Minh gained – more “advisers” and weapons yet more American went over instead. Lyndon B. weaponry in Johnson had fewer qualms and 1950 from Mao in August 1964 started bombing Dze-Dong, who Hanoi following a (possibly had captured staged) naval clash in the Gulf it from the of Tonkin. He said he “wasn’t defeated Chinese about to send American boys Nationalists; the Nationalist One of the most significant 10,000 miles from home to do had originally been given it milestones in America’s what Asian boys ought to be by the Americans to fight the long involvement in Vietnam doing for themselves”, but he Japanese. Truman responded probably didn’t even make did anyway: those USMC air with a $15m donation to the the newspapers; but when, The Rhine in Flames Cochem defence troops were the first of French warchest; by the time on February 9th, a US Marine over 2,000,000 Americans who the French were defeated and Corps air defence battalion served in ‘Nam in the next eight arrived to establish a base at Da driven out in 1954 he had given years. More than 47,000 came them £3bn, and 80% of their Nang, it changed history. home in body-bags; 153,000 The Americans had already been equipment was American. were seriously wounded. In the Call By then the US was too deeply active in Vietnam since 1942 process America’s civil society involved to walk away, but when they started supplying 01895 was almost ripped apart and his couldn’t afford to get pulled into Ho Chi Minh’s resistance noblerGorge ambitions – the Great The Rhine movement, fight another Korea and satisfied 83 33 the 33Viet Minh, toKoblenz Society, the War on Poverty itself instead with supporting the bookings Japanese. After the French for – were utterly swamped. And the South first with arms and reoccupied Saigon in late 1945 the North won. money, then with “advisers”. theinformation US started supplying them and These days, American (The first two Americans killed instead, since France was far “advisers” have been deployed too broke to equip its own army. in Vietnam, Maj Dale Ruis Holidays offered by and Sgt Chester Ovnand, on to Iraq... A year later the American-
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Rhine in Flames & Moselle River Cruise by Rail or Air
GN Holidays & Voyages Higher Denham
Departs 22 September, 2015 8 days semi-all-inclusive, from £889pp • Quote: RN9-IA
Happy 50th birthdays Also in 1965 February 1965 saw not only a very This fun-packed cruise visits historic INCLUDED: Escorted throughout
to Princess Stephanie significant milestone in the Vietnam War, but an equally significant date ABTA NoY0291 •ATOL 9362 riverside towns including travel from ofrail Monaco and London St in the Apollo Moon landing programme. On February 20th,Cochem, the Ranger• Return 8 Koblenz Boppard, where PancrasSherilynn (EbbsfleetFenn on request) River crashed Cruise in the Sea Rudesheim, (1st); to probe of Tranquillity having and transmitted 7,137 pictures you will experience the wine festival and see Brussels and coach transfer to www.gnvoyages.co.uk Dr Dre (18th), Kieren of what was to be Apollo 11’s eventual landing site. The first six Rangers the Rhine in Flames Cologne or return flights to Cologne Fallon (22nd), Sylvie were complete failures; Ranger 7 took 4,300 festival. generalOriginally pictures; held but it was Coach Breaks to celebrate the grape harvest, this - supp’tGuillem may apply • 7 nights fullRanger 8 that made Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin’s epoch-making “short www.gnholidays.com spectacular pyrotechnics show features an board cruise on the mps (23rd); and step”, exactly four-and-a-half years later, a practical possibility. Apollo and illuminated flotilla of riverboats and curtains Amsterdam sharing a twin outside Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays Kristin Davis its associated programmes including Ranger, Lunar Surveyor, and Lunar 9.30am to 12.30pm of fire, bathing the scene in a magical glow. cabin (TCB) on Main Deck (24th). Cake Orbiter cost the American taxpayer about $25bn. Whether it was money Saturdays We have chartered the lovely mps upgrades available • Welcome drink and botox well spent is a matter of personal opinion – but it has to be better value Amsterdam exclusively for this cruise. With on arrival • Beer, wine, & soft drinks to you all! than the £111bn spent on the Vietnam War over the same period. just 98 guests and a cosy, friendly served at lunch and dinner and atmosphere, this will surely be a cruise to from 6pm to midnight at the bar • Entertainment • Transfers abroad remember. 22
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Harefield Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough
Village Café QUOTE: EA3-IA
QUOTE: TD3-IA
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EASTBOURNE & SOUTH COAST EXPLORER
THRIPLOW DAFFODIL FESTIVAL & LUNCH AT A COUNTRY PUB
5 Days Half Board, £229pp
Great Day Out, £69pp
Departs Monday 23 March, 2015
Departs Saturday 21 March, 2015
INCLUDED: 4 nights stay at the Shoreview Hotel on
INCLUDED: Visit to Thriplow village for the daffodil
Eastbourne seafront • 4 dinners and 4 breakfasts
festival • 2-course hot & cold buffet lunch with a glass
• Visits to Arundel and Brighton • Coach travel and
of wine at the White Horse Hotel, Hertingfordbury
excursions
• Return coach travel
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BEAUTIFUL GARDENS OF DEVON
4 Days Half Board, £269pp
6 Days Half Board, £459pp
Departs Friday 24 April, 2015
Departs Sunday 10 May, 2015
INCLUDED: 3 nights stay at Jury’s Inn hotel, Leeds
INCLUDED: 5 nights hotel stay in Woolacombe, North
• 3Visit dinnersour and 3website breakfasts •to Visits to York and full menu: Devon • 5 dinners and 5 breakfasts • Visits to Hartland view our www.harefieldvillagecafe.co.uk Harrogate Spring Flower Show • Coach travel and
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Zoe Hart FP (Feb15)_Layout 1 29/01/2015 05:05 Page 1
Age appropriate music Every parents minefield? Not any more! ZOE HART an international club DJ since 1999, turned Childrens Entertainer in 2012. She is also a qualified yoga teacher and EI and mindfulness practitioner. Her company ‘Hart Entertainments’ provides quality conscious discos for children of all ages in the Bucks, Middlesex and West London areas.
Hi, I’m Zoe and I run a local children’s disco service.
www.zoehart.co.uk - 07747 063 149
In todays world we are constantly bombarded with information and not enough time to absorb and filter it for our children, so I thought I’d help a little, at least in the area that I’m good at. Music! Each month I’ll review a selection of the top 40 hits, detailing the artists and the tracks that have caught mine and the kids attention.
UPTOWN FUNK – Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars Bruno was the voice of Roberto in Rio 2. Check his story in Wikipedia as he’s an inspiration. This track tells the story of what a great band they are and how they are going to be celebrating AGE the girls on Saturday night. 5+
UP – Olly Murs feat Demi Levato Folk inspired pop song from the lovely Olly. Good character, lovely music, child friendly all the way so far. Demi Levato sang one of the versions of the classic track from Frozen “Let it go”. The song is about working at relationships and holding on AGE to what feels good.
0+
BLANK SPACE – Taylor Swift These lyrics are being jokey, however of course young children don’t understand the difference between saying things for real and AGE joking. Hence the age rating.
7+
This month’s favourite HEROES (We could Be) – Alesso Feat Tove Lo A beautiful message wrapped up in a great dance track that the kids love to sing along and bounce around to.
AGE
BUDAPEST – George Ezra Lovely innocent love song.
STEAL MY GIRL – One Direction Lyrics are ok nothing rude in them but the image created by stealing and possession of girls isn’t great. From great child friendly tracks such as ‘Best song ever’ and Live while we are young’ One direction are moving in circles now that put them on my approach with AGE AGE caution list. 5-7 16+
DON’T – Ed Sheeran Love Eds music unfortunately he does put a lot of references to addictive substances and swearing in it. This has the F word in it amongst AGE other things. 18+
BANG BANG – Jessie J According to Jessie, it doesn’t mean anything more than “an-in-your-face catchy phrase”. I like the song, and when I hear it I instantly feel sexy and powerful. However I don’t want my kids bang banging all over me. Thank you all the same Jessie, I’ll save that one for my partner after they’ve gone to AGE bed.
16+
0+ THESE DAYS – Take That
MEGHAN TRAINOR - All about that bass I absolutely love this track. It’s about loving your body whatever it looks like. Trouble is she’s used the b**ches word in it and contradicted herself in places. Great rhythm and as such is very catchy AGE for the youth.
12+
Great for kids discos. “Tonight I’m gonna live for these days”
AGE
0+
If you want a track reviewed, I do take requests. Just email me at zoe@zoehart.co.uk.
References: mtv.co.uk, Wikipedia.co.uk, azlyrics.com, whosay.com, musicinsideu.com, lyricinterpretations.com, songfacts.com.
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AGE
0+
Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX Independent School for boys and girls aged 3 - 11
An ‘OUTSTANDING’ School A family-run school with a caring atmosphere. Pupils achieve excellent results in academic subjects, music, sport and drama. For further information, or to arrange a visit, please telephone 01895 234371 Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX - www.sthelenscollege.com 27
Short Story
The Crafty Catch
“It could have been that one, or, on the other hand, it might have been the one next door”, Janine pondered. “Come on Derek, help me out, which one was it?”
They had been searching up and down the High Street for a while now. The streets lights had all come on and a light drizzle was falling. The cold had begun to seep through the soles of Derek’s shoes. It was a lovely idea of Janine’s to visit their home town on their anniversary to relive their first date. They had sat through a blockbuster sharing a box of Maltezers, in the old Curzon cinema which was miraculously still open, and were now searching for the café they had gone to afterwards. The High Street had changed beyond recognition in the thirty years since they had moved away, and Derek’s memory wasn’t what it used to be. “I’ll hold my hands up darling, I don’t remember the café at all”, he confessed, “I thought I treated you to a cone of chips from the Crafty Catch and we ate them walking home”. “Honestly Derek! We went to that café with pretty tablecloths. I remember fretting about the candle on the table because I had so much lacquer in my hair. I ordered a frothy coffee and a toasted tea cake”. Derek couldn’t remember. He 28
had come to rely on Janine to do his remembering for him.
Jeanine went on, “you asked for a black coffee - I remember thinking it was ever so continental”. “Did I?” Derek mused about his former self who had been considered continental. “Then you rambled on about stopcocks and non-return valves for half an hour, and went off to catch your bus”, Janine said, “I remember thinking ‘well I’m not sure if I want to see him again’”. “Didn’t I walk you home?” Derek asked. He wasn’t sure if he approved of his former self. If a young man hadn’t seen his own daughter safely home he’d have something to say about it. “No you did not, my Father was furious”, Janine frowned. “Hold on Derek, this looks familiar”. They reached a little side street. ”I’m sure it was down here”. “Come on Mrs”, Derek said, taking her hand, “if it’s still there I’ll treat you to a frothy coffee”. They turned the corner and saw straight away that the cafe was gone. In its place, just closing up for the night, was a plumber’s merchants. “I feel as though part of my past has been taken away”.
Janine said sadly. “There, there”. Derek said, patting her hand, “We’ve always got our memories”. “Well, I have”. Janine said crossly, “You can’t remember any of it”. “Sorry”, Derek said, “I couldn’t talk for two minutes about stop-cocks now”. “And yet you seemed so passionate about them at the time”. Janine said, peering in through the show window. She turned and looked at Derek strangely. “It wasn’t me, was it?” he said quietly. Janine’s cheeks turned crimson. “I remember now. He was a plumber’s mate. My friend set me up on a blind date”. She risked a sly smile, “Are you cross?” Derek looked squarely at his wife, then put his arm around her shoulders, “To be honest I’m relieved”. There was an unmistakeable aroma that told him, of all the shops on the high street, The Crafty Catch was still in business. “Come on, I’ll treat you to a cone of chips”. By Jackie Brewster
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Dated Events (Feb15)_Layout 1 29/01/2015 01:34 Page 1
FEBRUARY EVENTS Friends of Ickenham Hall & Compass Theatre present ‘Quiz and Chips’ Sun 8th February, 7.30pm Compass Theatre, Glebe Avenue, Ickenham, UB10 8PD A friendly quiz night with a Fish/Chicken/Sausage/Veggie Chip Supper included in the price. £12pp (booking fee applies per transaction of between £1.25 & £1.75). Contact Compass Theatre to book a place 01895 673200 or www.compasstheatre.co.uk.
jewellery, accessories, lingerie, hairdressing, aloe vera, lavender, cupcakes hand made soaps. Tickets cost £15 including a Bucks Fizz and a goody bag. Tea and coffee also available.
Local Events February into March 2015 34
The Inlands Waterways Association Tues 10th February, 7.30pm Hillingdon Canal Club (HCC), Waterloo Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX. (opposite the General Elliott pub) Speaker Ross Gorbert on ‘Converting a Dutch Pontoon’. For more information email Lucy Smith on middlesex.socials@ waterways.org.uk.
An Evening of Indulgence in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice Wed 11th February, 7pm-10pm The London School of Theology, Green Lane, Northwood, HA6 2UW. Relax and unwind with a glass of bubbly and a range of taster therapies during the evening. Includes live music from the Paul Lipscombe duo. Treatments available include; massages, mini manicures, indian head massage, reflexology, postural analysis, analysis by House of Colour. Stalls offering
For more details or to book visit www.michaelsobelhospice.co.uk or call 01923 844730. Visit www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk. HUBB Business Breakfast Event Thu 12th February, 8am-9am Bay Lodge, 36 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1PH. Networking with local professionals and in partnership with the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce. Ward Williams’ Corporate Tax Manager, Keng Cheong will provide a ‘Tax bite from the Autumn 2014 statement’; Coffee and pastries. For details email: emma.zovich@ wardwilliams.co.uk Butterflies Indoor Boot Sale and Community Coffee Morning Sat 14th February, 9.30am-1pm The Village Hall, Ickenham. For more information call Vera on 01895 635224 or Chris on 01895 676900 or you can email ButterfliesIckenham@yahoo.com A night of comedy with John Moloney and supporting acts in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice Fri 20th February, 8.30pm The Fairway, Ruislip Golf Centre, Ickenham Road, West Ruislip, HA4 7DQ. Comedy Bunker in partnership with Michael Sobell Hospice present this evening of entertainment. Tickets £12 with £5 going to MSH. Contact Geraint Hughes on 01923 844550 or email: gvhughes@michaelsobell hospice.co.uk for tickets
DON'T MISS THE DEADLINE! If you would like us to publicise your event in our March issues contact us no later than Friday 13th February.
Bingo Fundraising Night with Fish/Chicken & Chip Supper Sat 21st February, 6.45pm for 7pm Iver Heath Village Hall, St Margaret’s Close, Iver Heath. Entry & Supper £6pp. Bingo Game Books and Raffle extra. Come on your own or with friends, please bring your own drinks, glasses etc. Book with Pat on 01753 647674. Cancer Research UK Market Sat 28th February, 10am-12.15pm The Village Hall, Ickenham. Various Stalls, Refreshments, Raffle etc. Entrance 50p. Tables available for hire call 01895 634851 for more details.
MARCH EVENTS Iver Heath Ladies Talk Mon 2nd March, Iver Heath Village Hall, St Margaret’s Close, Iver Heath. A talk by Robin bishop - The Fall and Rise of Canals in England . For details contact Pat Roberts on 01753 647674.
LIVE MUSIC EVENTS The Swan at Iver 2 High Street, Iver, SL0 9NG Fri 6th Feb Solace Fri 13th Feb 2 Tone Fri 20th Feb The Flyers Fri 27th Feb Leech The Whip & Collar 135 Swallow Street, Iver, SL0 0HU Sat 8th Feb Mark Kelly Sat 14th Feb Karaoke and music The Falcon Village Road, Denham, UB9 5BE Fri 27th Feb 'Eckie' and his 'Saxy' sounds Fri 13th March Legacy - Acoustic duo playing Country Rock & Pop The WatersEdge Packet Boat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS Fri 20th Mar Back by extremely big demand! Ladies Night with Drag Queen Tiffany Wells and 2 male strippers (Show starts 9pm with DJ 'til late £15pp inc nibbles).
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Coupling Roses are red and violets are blue, most poems rhyme… but they say marriage is the end of romance, so this one doesn’t. We’ve put together a collection of books for the big VDay celebrations that focus on what happens after you and your love have been together for a while. Is there really such a thing as ‘happily ever after’? Or this this the beginning of the end?
A Spot of Bother - Mark Haddon The secrets, hopes and disappointments of our ordinary lives come into question in Haddon’s great novel about one family and the couples within it. George and Jean have been married for decades, but their daughter Katie, divorced, is now getting remarried, to someone who has ‘strangler’s hands’, according to her brother. Jean’s trying to keep her affair under wraps and George has discovered a strange lump or lesion and decides he’s definitely on his last legs. It’s all a bit of a pickle really and a highly amusing game of who’ll end up with whom. Couples - John Updike It’s a bit naughty, this one. But it’s a classic, so you can’t be frowned upon for reading it! It focuses on the promiscuous lives of ten couples living in a small Massachusetts town during the 1960s and reading it is like stepping back into the decade of free love and experimentation. It’s full of historic references and mixes fact and fiction incredibly well. The group of married, fairly well-off thirty-something year old couples are taking full advantage of new methods of contraception and more liberal attitudes. Updike’s novel questions whether it’s a new utopian society, or whether they’re actually in a hell of their own making. 36
Us - David Nicholls Women marry men thinking they can change them; men marry women hoping they’ll never change. Douglas would be quite happy to grow old and die together, but for Connie, that sentiment means their relationship is already dead in the water. She announces she’s going to pack her bags and leave him, but is persuaded by Douglas to make one final trip together. He’s got a master plan to reignite the spark and is pinning everything on this one holiday. Sounds like a fool-proof plan… The Children Act - Ian McEwan High Court Judge Fiona May presides over family cases, whilst her own home life is crumbling about her. Her husband’s asked her if they can have an open marriage and it doesn’t go down all that well. When he leaves, she is left questioning her own belief system and what it means to be dignified and respectable. On the work front she’s tackling the case of a teenage boy whose parents won’t permit a medical procedure that could save his life, because of their religious beliefs. She’s struggling to get a grip while her world falls apart around her and it’s truly compelling writing as she battles in the courtroom and on the home front. Juliet, Naked - Nick Hornby When you’ve been around the block and back again, several
thousand times, perhaps it’s time to move on. Annie’s been playing it safe and settling for Duncan and now she’s getting restless for some of that dramatic love she’s always dreamed of; the kind that sweeps you off your feet. The only trouble is she’s more likely to end up blown off her feet in the windswept Northern town of Gooleness. Does the excitement she craves lie with the American rock star who emails her… or does she need to look elsewhere? The Rosie Project - Graeme Simsion Ok, so here’s a last one that’s been thrown in because we think it’s absolutely marvellous and because it features 39 year old Don Tillman’s ‘Wife Project’: the most scientific approach to finding a missus that you’re ever likely to come across. If you thought eHarmony asked a lot of questions, wait until you fill in Don’s questionnaire. He’s tall, dark and handsome, but he also seems to have undiagnosed Asperger’s Syndrome. This professor of genetics hasn’t found his ‘other half’ and so devises a series of questions designed to filter out the undesirables. Enter Rosie. She’s everything he’s not looking for, and yet she might just be perfect for him. You will fall in love with the frustrating character that is Don Tillman and you’ll be rooting for the old ball and chain to be secured by the end of the novel. Proof there really is someone out there for everyone.
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Comp
Mobile Motoring Madness By James Baggott, editor of Car Dealer Magazine (CarDealerMag.co.uk)
Next time you’re sitting in a traffic jam, or waiting at the lights, or on a motorway even, take a little look around you and – especially if it’s during a dark commute home – I’m willing to wager you’ll be surrounded by countless illuminated, bowed heads of motorists checking their phones. You can spot them easily, like rule-breaking beacons. With music streaming services like Spotify working through car audio systems, social media streams constantly pinging away with notifications, not to mention text messages and emails, the temptation to not touch the phone is too hard for most to resist. Can you honestly say that you’ve never touched your phone while driving? I can’t. British Car Auctions recently quizzed 445 motorists and 95 per cent of them said they’d seen another driver using a mobile phone. Some 82 per cent of them had seen someone texting or emailing too and 42 per cent admitted to doing it themselves. The official advice is to turn it off, but the problem with that is phones have become intrinsically linked to our cars. Most modern models 38
offer Bluetooth connectivity that lets you take calls at the wheel, stream music from your handset, while some even let you access the web from the car using your phone’s signal. While I can’t deny all these features are handy, could it be the case that car manufacturers are sending out the wrong message? Are they condoning the use of a mobile phone behind the wheel by implementing all this technology? A report from Canada found drivers talking on handsfree devices were ‘far more likely to make errors on the road’. And, come on, admit it, when you’re having a conversation on handsfree are you REALLY paying attention properly? I contacted the Association of Chief Police Officers to ask them what would happen to a driver who had an accident while talking, perfectly legally, on a handsfree kit. A spokesman said the likelihood was that the driver would be prosecuted for driving without due care and attention or, in more extreme cases, for dangerous driving. And it’s already happened. One case in 2008 involved lorry driver Mervyn Richmond, 49,
who had been talking to his mother for 23 minutes using Bluetooth in his cab when he ran into back of a Transit van, killing its passenger. He was jailed for four-and-a-half years for dangerous driving. Roger Vincent, of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, told The Daily Mail at the time: ‘When you are using any mobile while driving you are four times more likely to have an accident.’ FOUR times. So here’s my idea. I think it’s time for a manufacturer to introduce a device that stops your phone working when the engine is on. A sort of enforced airplane mode that means no calls, texts, emails or data can be received, but music can still be played if it’s plugged in. It would take a brave manufacturer to make the move, but marketed correctly it could be a winner. With mobile phone use behind the wheel increasing, despite the threats of points and fines, now has to be the time to take drastic measures. But is there a car maker brave enough to make the move first? Who knows… What do you think? Tweet me @CarDealerEd and let me know.
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Join in the warehouse or online: www.costco.co.uk/membership The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership is £20 (plus VAT). Executive Trade Membership is an additional £30 (plus VAT) upgrade fee a year. Each membership includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. The annual membership fee for Standard Individual Membership is £25 (plus VAT). Executive Individual Membership is an additional £30 (plus VAT) upgrade fee a year. Each membership includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. Membership Criteria applies. Membership must be obtained before purchases can be made. Costco accepts cash, debit card, cheque or American Express
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Food Court | Fresh Bakery | Groceries | Gifts | Electronics | Fine Jewellery | Designer Apparel | Opticians | Fine Wines | Butchers and more! 41
Compass Theatre DPS (Feb15)_Layout 1 19/01/2015 14:53 Page 1
Disney’s
What’s on at
Mulan(U) at Compass Theatre Tues 17 February A young woman secretly takes her father’s place in the army in order to save his life and her adventures lead to her to become one of China’s greatest heroes.
Compass Theatre Ha! H February/March 2015
Spotlight Musical Theatre presents
Thoroughly Modern Millie
at Compass Theatre Wed 4 - Sat 7 February Spotlight Musical Theatre Company return with this fun-filled, high energy show full of toetapping dance routines, memorable music and fabulous flappers. Friends of Ickenham Hall presents
Quiz ‘n’ Chips Sun 8 February at Compass Theatre Join us for another fun, general knowledge quiz supper in aid of the restoration of Ickenham Hall and Compass Theatre’s building and fittings. There will be 10 tables, each seating up to eight people with one team per table. Tickets include a tasty Chip Supper! London Borough of Hillingdon presents
Hillingdon's Hidden Talent 2015
at Compass Theatre Sun 15 February Hillingdon’s Hidden Talent is a popular showcase for local talent of all kinds – so whether you are a singer, a street dance superstar or have a secret gift for sketch comedy, then we want to hear from you!
Chinese New Year Workshops
at Compass Theatre Wed 18 February The Chinese New Year inspires the February 2015 Half Term holiday activity at Compass Theatre. Our Craft and Performing Workshops are created especially for 5 to 11 year olds and run at 10am and again at 1pm. Advance booking is essential.
London Borough of Hillingdon presents
Band Night
at Compass Theatre Fri 20 February A night of live music from local bands.
Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H
Murder Most Fun and Friends of Ickenham Hall presents
Death In Disguise
at Compass Theatre Sat 21 February Murder Most Fun presents another Murder Mystery night. The event will be set up around tables, each seating 8 people, with one team per table. Tickets include a tasty chip supper choose yours when you book.
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Compass Theatre DPS (Feb15)_Layout 1 19/01/2015 14:53 Page 2
The Drowsy Chaperone
at Compass Theatre Wed 4 - Sat 7 March A hugely comical musical the stage comes alive each night and pays homage to the silly, predictable gems of musical theatre.
Death and the Maiden Ariel Dorfman’s
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at Compass Theatre Wed 11 - Sat 14 March A riveting intellectual and emotional tug-of-war that explores the after-effects of repression on hearts and souls in a white-knuckle thriller from Proscenium
Theatre Company. Bizet’s
Carmen
at Compass Theatre Wed 18 - Sat 21 March There was never a dull moment when that girl was around. Set in 1930s Spain, against a background of the chaos and confusion of civil war, Harrow Opera presents a brand new, fully staged production of Carmen, sung in English.
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Hillingdon Musical Scoiety presents
Crazy For You
at Winston Churchill Theatre Sun 23 February, 3pm Following on from their NODA nominated production of Oliver! Hillingdon Musical Society transport you to 1920’s New York via dusty Nevada, to see such classics as Someone to Watch Over Me, They Can’t Take That Away From Me and I Got Rhythm with a cast of over 40 with big dance numbers and great singing. Arthur Miller’s
The Crucible
at Compass Theatre Thu 26 - Fri 27 March Who weeps for these weeps for corruption. Set in Massachusetts in 1692, this play recounts the events surrounding the Salem Witch Trials. Arthur Miller’s comment on his experiences of 1950’s McCarthyism won the play a Tony Award and is still regarded as a modern classic.
Theatre details... COMPASS THEATRE Glebe Avenue, Ickenham, UB10 8PD. WINSTON CHURCHILL THEATRE AND HALL Pinn Way, Ruislip, HA4 7QL. HILLINGDON BOX OFFICE: 01895 673200
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Starting Your End of Tax Year Planning ASAP! The current tax year will end on the 5 April 2015, so you still have time to sort your tax planning before the year closes, but the best advice is to get it done as soon as possible.
The main areas to make tax efficient investments are Pensions and NISAs.
Pensions Pensions are one of the most tax efficient investment vehicles, for personal contributions, you will receive 20% tax relief on your contribution. If you are a higher or additional rate tax payer you can claim a further 20% or 25% relief respectively via your self assessment. The maximum annual personal pension contribution that can be made is 100% of your relevant UK earnings (up to a limit of £40,000 gross). Major changes will come into effect from 6 April 2015, from flexibility on how to draw your benefits to passing on your pension after death to beneficiaries more tax efficiently.
New Individual Savings Accounts (NISAs) The Government also made changes to NISAs from 1 July 2014. The annual allowance increased from £11,880 to £15,000; complete flexibility on amounts contributed to cash or Stocks & Shares, for the first time Stocks & Shares can be transferred into cash and continue to hold its NISA wrapper. If you have not used your full NISA allowance by 5 April, you will not be able to carry this forward. As of 6 April 2015, the annual NISA allowance will increase up to £15,240.
Alternatives If you have used your NISA and pension allowances already, there are alternatives open to you that will offer relief to reduce your income tax along with other benefits. Investments such as Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) and Enterprise Investment Schemes (EISs) offer tax relief but are seen as riskier investments. If you wish to discuss investing monies into an NISA or Pension, please contact Ward Williams Financial Services Ltd on 01895 236335 or email wwfs@wardwilliams.co.uk.
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Beauty Hot Hair Tips
by Helen Taylor enjoy trying out any and every style you fancy.
Disguising a high forehead is easy, all you need is a fringe. Choose whatever kind you like; layered, heavy or wispy.
For Your Body sShape Image courtesy of Paul Mitchell
Your hair can have a massive impact on the way you look and feel so find a flattering style to make the most of the good bits and disguise the elements of your face and body you don’t like.
For Your Face Shape
Round faces suit styles that are layered and cut into, that frame the face without making it look rounder. Very thick one length hair won’t be flattering, so if your hair is long keep the length but lose some of the volume. Long faces need a style that helps to shorten the appearance of the face. A textured chin length bob is a good option, so is adding a fringe to your current style. Square faces need to soften their angular features by choosing a style that’s layered and soft to frame their face. Avoid heavy fringes and bobs. Oval and Triangular faces are thought to suit any hairstyle, so 46
Certain hairstyles definitely suit some body shapes more than others.
If you carry more weight, then long or short sleek styles are best, because a straighter style works to thin and lengthen the face. Avoid any full styles that add bulk around your face. If you are thinner than you’d like to be choose a style that will add volume to your face. You can achieve this by adding layers to your hair, blow-drying your locks to create lift and volume and choosing curly or tousled styles.
Problem Solvers
We all have aspects of our face that we’re not so keen on, here’s how to hide them: “I hate my big nose” Choose styles that are voluminous and lifted at the crown, this means that when you’re seen in profile your nose will appear smaller. A centre parting is a definite no-no for you, as it draws attention straight to the nose, so opt for a side parting instead. “My forehead is too big”
“My ears are big and they stick out” Opt for a style that covers your ears and adds volume around that area, so that your ears are concealed. This can be achieved with both long and short styles. “I have a weak/receding chin” Don’t go for very short styles, keep the length below your chin and choose layers to frame your face and jaw line.
Turn Back The Clock
The right hairstyle - and colour - will instantly make you look younger: Many of us make the mistake of keeping our hair in the same style that we had when we were younger, but as we age our face changes and needs a style that will best flatter it as it is now. That’s why it’s important to try out a new look every few years. Shorter styles tend to be more flattering as we age, and the serve to ‘lift’ our facial features. Long hair looks fabulous when you’re 25, but not so good when you’re 55, because the lengthy tresses tend to drag your face down. Solid, block colours just aren’t flattering as you age, so cover greys and soften and brighten your face with a multitude of lowlights and highlights. You’ll be amazed at the results.
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Health Tackling Tinnitus
By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk
It’s Tinnitus Awareness Week from 2nd-8th February, and as the British Tinnitus Association estimates that around 30% of us will experience tinnitus at some point, it’s important to understand it. Tinnitus isn’t a disease or illness. It’s a condition causing you to hear continuous or occasional noise that isn’t external. It can be a single sound or several; humming, whooshing, whistling, hissing, buzzing, ringing or even, rarely, musical notes. It may seem like it’s in one ear, both, inside your head or be impossible to pinpoint. The causes aren’t clear. Tinnitus is still not fully understood, but it’s more common in people with hearing loss or ear problems - although people with normal hearing get it too. Normally, your ears send sounds to the brain for processing, but as they can’t tell what’s important, they send unnecessary information. So
your brain learns to filter out what it classifies as background sound, such as traffic noise. Sometimes though, the brain receives too little information and asks the ear for more. This extra information can cause tinnitus. Things which seem to trigger the process are: Middle ear infections can cause temporary hearing loss and tinnitus, so need to be treated swiftly. Damage to the hair cells in your ear – these delicate cells decrease with age and can be damaged by exposure to loud noise too, causing hearing loss (which may make tinnitus more noticeable). Stress and anxiety may make tinnitus more noticeable. Some people first notice tinnitus during emotional upheavals such as redundancy or bereavement. If you think you have tinnitus, don’t panic. Over time, the noises usually disappear or drop to a manageable level. But it’s important to see your GP, who will refer you to the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) and Audiology specialists. They will usually: • give you a hearing test • examine you • suggest ways to make your tinnitus easier to live with If you suffer from tinnitus, there are plenty of coping
strategies to try. • Get Information and support to help you feel more in control and less alone (see the contacts below). • Therapies and Techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness or Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT), relaxation, yoga or tai chi can help you tune out tinnitus. • Hearing loss correction – hearing aids often improve or eliminate tinnitus by restoring sounds you couldn’t otherwise hear. • Sound therapy: low-level background noise such as music or natural sounds can help, particularly during quiet periods or when drifting off to sleep. Special CDs, MP3 tracks or purpose built sound generators are available. • Keeping busy with work, hobbies or friends can make it easier to ignore tinnitus. • Exercise will keep you busy and may help you sleep, too. Start gradually if you’re not used to exercising. • Talk about it to someone who understands – this can relieve feelings of frustration and loneliness. • Live your life as normally as possible. Try not to change your life too much to fit around your tinnitus - if you do, it will take on more importance and you may feel more resentful and stressed.
For more InFormaTIon and supporT:
British Tinnitus association: Helpline – Tel 0800 018 0527 Email: info@tinnitus.org.uk www.tinnitus.org.uk action on Hearing Loss: Tinnitus Information Line: Tel 0808 808 6666 | Textphone 0808 808 9000 tinnitushelpline@hearingloss.org.uk http://www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk/your-hearing/tinnitus.aspx (downloadable leaflets available free) Hearing Link: Helpdesk: 0300 111 1113 Email: helpdesk@hearinglink.org http://www.hearinglink.org/tinnitus 48
Iver Croft, Bangors Road South, Iver, SL0 0AD
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And Another
Thing...
by Tom Hughes
Spring being just around the corner reminded me of the time last year me and Sarah decided to visit a wedding show to give us some inspiration for our impending Big Day. Who knew that love and happiness was such a serious business? After filling out our registration form with the usual false name and address, we were allowed inside a vast exhibition hall full of stands dedicated to all things fluffy and amazing. The first stall was selling imitation red Post Boxes. Here was my first conundrum. “Sarah, what are they for?”
Chastened, we proceeded down the next aisle. Walking past photographers and old men in peaked caps waving pictures of Rolls Royces, I stumbled upon the strangest stall I had ever seen. A woman was sitting behind a counter which contained nothing more than a few photographs. Then I saw it. Behind her, sat on its perch was a real life tawny owl. Yellow and black saucer eyes, a beak designed for eviscerating rodents and claws that could probably strip your flesh down to the bone. I whispered to Sarah -
begin to fathom. I decided to make some enquiries myself. The lady smiled as I leaned forward and asked, “You haven’t by any chance got a pea green boat and a pussy cat hidden under there have you?” Another sharp dig from Sarah. Through a fixed smiled she explained to me that the owl’s job was to deliver the rings at the ceremony – fly across the venue to the handler who would present them to the best man. “Yes but then who signs for them? Surely the owl can’t –“
“Our guests post their cards inside them so they don’t get lost.”
“Do you think she’s got her events mixed up? Do you think she knows this is a wedding show?”
I was then dragged away to a tax-dodging generic coffee emporium, where Sarah had to have a little word.
“Well that’s no good for us is it?”
“Of course she knows it’s a wedding show.”
“Why?”
“Then what is she doing here with that owl?”
So, after a good talking to, we continued with our investigations. But there seemed nothing here that was of any practical use for the Groom About Town. It was then I chanced upon the kind of stall I had been waiting for all day - the eyebrow stall!
“We get married at five o’clock and last post on a Saturday is 12.45.” “Tom, if you are going to mess about all day we might 50
as well go home now.”
“Well what do you think she’s doing?” Why someone would need an owl to get married I couldn’t
I elbowed my way to the front of the queue, muttering something about sorting out the caterpillars above my eyes.
making this up by the way). Then suddenly, some powder appeared. Wary of edging into guy-liner territory, I was about to object when she reassured me, “Don’t worry about the powder sir, it’s waterproof.”
“Tom, please don’t.” But it was too late.
I presented my eyebrows to the nice lady. She glanced from one fuzzy outcrop to the other, emitting a worrying tuttut with each inspection. “Well sir, it’s gonna take a lot of hard work, but together, we’ll get there.” She then rolled out a set of miniature tools that were either for repairing the disaster above my eyes, or she had stolen a Lilliputian’s car repair kit. She then produced a tiny comb and proceeded to comb my eyebrows (I’m not
This confused me further. “Madam, I anticipate my wedding day being emotional. However, I don’t think I’ll be reciting my vows whilst standing on my head. In any case, I thought you might be trimming them, I believe the correct term is shaping? She stopped in mid-powder. “I’m sorry sir, we don’t do that here. That’s a different stall.” I turned to Sarah who, noting that I appeared to be wearing a slightly more alarmed expression than usual,
declared that maybe arranging our wedding was something best left to the experts, which as it transpired, didn’t include me. “Look Tom,” she sighed, “On the day, just turn up and leave the rest to your bride, OK?” I think life goes smoother if we all just play to our strengths, don’t you? Follow Tom’s escapades at groomsdaybook.com Twitter @groomsdaybook
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Hobbies Get Ready For The Cycling Revolution By Kate McLelland When Graham Flavell moved to rural Dorset to begin a new job, he decided to take up cycling as a way of exploring the countryside. For many years he continued to enjoy low-key, leisurely bike journeys: discovering more about the local area and enjoying the occasional family holiday on two wheels.
afford to buy models such as the new, lightweight carbon framed bicycles, which can cost up to £1,000. An old bike can fit the bill (provided you’re not competing in the Tour de France or planning any off-road trekking), but if you’re buying second hand it’s advisable to get your bike serviced to ensure that it is roadworthy.
In recent months, however, Graham’s commitment to cycling has undergone something of a revolution. He is now one of the many thousands of people in the UK for whom cycling has become a serious hobby, and he currently cycles up to 140 miles each week with a few like-minded friends.
If you’re not sure what type of bicycle you need - and there are a bewildering variety of models out there - a specialist cycling shop should be able to help. Alternatively Guardian journalist Helen Pidd’s book The Complete Guide to Everyday Cycling (published by Penguin) offers a practical, illustrated guide to buying and riding a bike for the first time.
Graham says: “We meet twice a week and I enjoy the camaraderie of cycling in a group. It was hard when I started, but I’ve been amazed how my fitness has improved over the last six months.” So where do you start if you have decided to take up cycling for the first time? It really depends on what kind of cycling appeals to you. Will you be using your bike for transport, for leisure or for competition? Budget is another important factor. Not everyone can 52
Once you have bought your bicycle, you’ll need to acquire some basic skills. How to signal, how to ride in traffic, how to do an emergency stop and even how to change a tyre: these are all essential things to learn before you before you set out on a busy road. The British Cycling website (www. britishcycling.org.uk) allows you to search for a local Bikeability course, designed to teach you the skills you need to ride
confidently on today’s roads. Britain’s network of cycle lanes and paths is steadily growing, and cycling is now a much safer activity than it used to be, although urban cyclists often complain of cycle lanes being too narrow, or the layout stopping abruptly. Rural roads offer their own challenges, but after a lifetime’s cycling along country lanes Graham Flavell says that the drivers he has met are generally respectful. Sport England claims that over 2.1 million people currently cycle on a weekly basis in the UK and in the autumn of last year the government published a draft version of its Cycling Delivery Plan for consultation, giving details of a 10-year strategy that includes the ambition to double the amount of cycling activity on Britain’s roads by the year 2025. The government is keen to promote this plan because cycling not only benefits our mental and physical health, it also protects the environment by cutting down on carbon emissions. Graham Flavell agrees there are really no better reasons to get on your bike!
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Something In The Air Our sense of smell is the most powerful of all our senses - and that means we’re quick to notice if something doesn’t smell too good. Damp, pets and perfumes can all create unwanted odours in our homes, but the good news is that there are lots of devices that can clear the air. Damp is one of the most distinctive unwanted odours, and it can be serious: damp can cause respiratory problems, especially in young children and the elderly. It’s usually caused by inadequate ventilation, over-enthusiastic showering or drying clothes indoors, especially in winter, and you can banish it with a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier sucks moisture out of the air and puts it in a tank, and some models can be installed permanently with a drain tube to take the water outside. Don’t waste your time with little gel-pack dehumidifiers: electric ones can cost as little as £50, although for a typical home you’d be better off with one of the very many models costing around £100. Those ones are capable of handling 10 litres of water before it’s time to empty them; smaller, cheaper ones need emptied much more frequently. If the unwanted odours are 56
from dust, smoke or other small particles, an air purifier such as the Vax HEPA 2 Air Purifier (around £150) can help. The HEPA bit is important: it’s short for high-efficiency particulate air, and it’s an international standard for air cleaning gadgets. If it isn’t HEPA it might not be very good. You’ll also find HEPA-accredited vacuum cleaners from the likes of Vax and Dyson, which are particularly good for houses with pets. If you’ve seen advertising breaks recently you’ve probably seen ads for devices such as the Air Wick Freshmatic, which regularly release puffs of fragrance to make your room smell nicer. You can pick up Freshmatic bases - the bits that do the puffing - for around £6 for two, and refills are around £6 to £12 for a pack of four. The problem with air fresheners, of course, is that they mask odours rather than get rid of them. If you’re dealing with stubborn odours, such as the ones left on furniture by wet dogs or from food smeared on the sofa by small children, then a dedicated cleaning gadget might help. There are two kinds to consider: carpet and upholstery cleaners, and steam cleaners. As you’d expect, carpet and
upholstery cleaners are designed to clean fabrics and carpets. Vax’s Rapide (around £129) and Bissell’s Cleanview use jets of water and detergent to clean and then suck the liquid back in again, and the results can be great - provided, that is, that the fabric’s colour doesn’t run. Always try a small area first just in case, and look for anti-allergen detergents. The second option, a steam cleaner, can clean almost anything - but the steaming process does leave fabric wet for quite a while afterwards, so it’s best done on a warm day. Steam cleaners are incredibly cheap, with decent ones from as little as £14, and even award-winning models such as the H20 X5 mop and multipurpose cleaner come in at around £80. Such devices are particularly good for people with allergies or people with very young children, as the cleaning is chemical-free, and they can also be used for dull tasks such as removing wallpaper and in some cases, cleaning the oven too.
Images left to right: Dehumidifier (not branded); Vax HEPA vacuum cleaner; Air Wick Freshmatic Base; Bissell CleanView carpet cleaner
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GNH_in&around_dps_Feb2015_Layout 1 14/01/2015 17:49 Page 1
holidays
In and Around
Call 01895 83 33 33 for bookings and information Holidays offered by GN Holidays & Voyages Higher Denham ABTA NoY0291 •ATOL 9362
River Cruise www.gnvoyages.co.uk Coach Breaks www.gnholidays.com Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays
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Free Drinks
I The Rhine in Flames
Cochem
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•
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Koblenz
The Rhine Gorge
Rhine in Flames & Moselle River Cruise by Rail or Air Departs 22 September, 2015 8 days semi-all-inclusive, from £889pp • Quote: RN9-IA This fun-packed cruise visits historic riverside towns including Cochem, Rudesheim, Koblenz and Boppard, where you will experience the wine festival and see the Rhine in Flames festival. Originally held to celebrate the grape harvest, this spectacular pyrotechnics show features an illuminated flotilla of riverboats and curtains of fire, bathing the scene in a magical glow. We have chartered the lovely mps Amsterdam exclusively for this cruise. With just 98 guests and a cosy, friendly atmosphere, this will surely be a cruise to remember.
INCLUDED: Escorted throughout • Return rail travel from London St Pancras (Ebbsfleet on request) to Brussels and coach transfer to Cologne or return flights to Cologne - supp’t may apply • 7 nights fullboard cruise on the mps Amsterdam sharing a twin outside cabin (TCB) on Main Deck upgrades available • Welcome drink on arrival • Beer, wine, & soft drinks served at lunch and dinner and from 6pm to midnight at the bar • Entertainment • Transfers abroad
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Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough QUOTE: EA3-IA
QUOTE: TD3-IA
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THRIPLOW DAFFODIL FESTIVAL & LUNCH AT A COUNTRY PUB
5 Days Half Board, £229pp
Great Day Out, £69pp
Departs Monday 23 March, 2015
Departs Saturday 21 March, 2015
INCLUDED: 4 nights stay at the Shoreview Hotel on
INCLUDED: Visit to Thriplow village for the daffodil
Eastbourne seafront • 4 dinners and 4 breakfasts
festival • 2-course hot & cold buffet lunch with a glass
• Visits to Arundel and Brighton • Coach travel and
of wine at the White Horse Hotel, Hertingfordbury
excursions
• Return coach travel
QUOTE: HA4-IA
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4 Days Half Board, £269pp
6 Days Half Board, £459pp
Departs Friday 24 April, 2015
Departs Sunday 10 May, 2015
INCLUDED: 3 nights stay at Jury’s Inn hotel, Leeds
INCLUDED: 5 nights hotel stay in Woolacombe, North
• 3 dinners and 3 breakfasts • Visits to York and
Devon • 5 dinners and 5 breakfasts • Visits to Hartland
Harrogate Spring Flower Show • Coach travel and
Abbey, Marwood Hill and RHS Rosemoor gardens,
excursions
including entry • Coach travel and excursions
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The Spirit of Bagan Myanmar By Solange Hando
On a bend of the Irrawaddy river in Upper Burma, over 2000 pagodas and temples glow on the red plains of Bagan. Only thorn bushes and a handful of palms grow on the desert sand but across the river, the Rakhine mountains look down from afar on the world’s highest concentration of Buddhist heritage.
From the 9th to the 13th centuries, Pagan - as it was called - was the prosperous capital of a new kingdom, uniting the regions which form the basis of modern Myanmar. They say that 55 kings reigned in Pagan, a city reputed for its religious and academic studies and a place of pilgrimage where donations from devotees financed thousands of religious buildings from monasteries to stupas (pagodas) and temples. Representing the Buddhist cosmos, stupas were designed as relic chambers graced by ornate brick pediments, often guarded by ogre statues and later developing into bellshaped pagodas. On the other hand, temples were used for prayer and meditation and characterised by pointed arches and vaulted chambers. The 11th century technique proved so strong that early temples survived the massive 1975 earthquake, unlike later 60
structures when the know-how had been lost.
Weakened by Mongol invasions, Pagan’s golden age came to an end in 1287 when a new kingdom was created. Yet, the city remained a popular pilgrimage and temples continued to be built to express devotion. Today after a long political boycott, Bagan greets returning visitors with an Archaeological Zone spreading over 26 square miles, bristling with spires and towers. Beyond a few major sites where tourists gather, the wilderness is yours, shared only with unruly goats, oxcarts and horse-drawn carriages. Ruined or restored, ancient structures pop up wherever you look, here a lonely pagoda, there a cluster of spires fiery red in the midday heat, a crumbling tower where creepers cling to the walls, a string of deserted buildings lining a dusty path, a forgotten temple where children play in the sand. The best way to explore is to walk, hop on a cart or hire a bicycle, though this is likely to get stuck in the sand from time to time. Early risers may opt for a hot air balloon ride when in the golden light, the scale and magnificence of Bagan simply take your breath away.
But beyond the abandoned ruins, two temples embellished through the ages attract pilgrims as they have done for centuries. The splendid Shwezigon pagoda defies imagination, built with rocks from the hills passed along rows of devotees stretching for six miles. Today it is covered in gold leaf, its finely sculpted terraces topped by a dazzling dome. At the other end of town, near the city wall, the Ananda Temple boasts precious wall paintings and carvings and a revered Buddha image whose smiling face appears to change as you approach. There is little doubt that Bagan’s vast heritage is unrivalled, even by the crowded Angkor Wat, yet the site has not yet achieved UNESCO status. On the tentative list since 1996, it suffers from ongoing controversy surrounding some ‘modern’ restoration and the burgeoning infrastructure needed to accommodate growing numbers of visitors. But for those who come this far, it hardly matters at all for when the sun sets over spires and towers, the spirit of Bagan lives on, haunting the dusty plain as it has done for over 1000 years.
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The undisputed king of the ex ecutive saloons is better than ever in its current incarnation. From the handsome styling and perfect proportions to the beauti fully balanced handling, every thing about this car is spot on. Leather seats and satnav come as standard so every model has that touch of luxury, together with acres of space and a sup ple ride. The 3.0 litre diesel is awesome but the 2.0 litre is fine for most people’s needs with 185bhp, a 060 time of 8.1 sec onds and economy of up to 65mpg. I found a 2010 model with 58k on it, a snip at £13,000.
Mercedes’ venerable E class has long been everything from the MD’s luxury express to the 62
station taxi. The styling on the latest version is controversial but certainly imposing. The E Class is all about comfort and prestige coupled with bomb proof build quality and this one certainly doesn’t disappoint. With acres of space, the comfi est of seats, an effortless ride and superb refinement, you can drive across Europe without breaking into a sweat. The 2.2 litre diesel is a bit sluggish, bet ter to go for the 3.0 litre E350 CDI which from 2011 boasts 265bhp and a top whack of 155 mph. A 2011 car with a modest 33k miles on it and all the good ies will set you back 17 grand.
The first of the “new” Jags, the XF is sleek and svelte, more like a coupé than a saloon. The interior is truly a lovely place to be with leather and wood every where and some slick features like the pop up gear column and rotating air vents. The handling is excellent without seriously compromising the ride, although it is not as good as the Merc. Originally available with a 2.7 litre diesel that was behind the opposition, from 2009 it was upgraded to a smooth 3.0 litre with 235bhp. There’s also a 2.2 but that’s a bit coarse. The big
ger engine gets to 62mph in 6.7 seconds yet still manages a commendable 52mpg. Expect to pay £15,500 for a 2011 model with less than 40k under its belt.
Although it’s a Japanese car aimed squarely at the American market, the GS is still well worth a look. The styling hasn’t really evolved enough but inside you will a sumptuous interior with every bit of kit known to man fitted as standard. The Lexus is incredibly refined with a magic carpet ride that few others can match. As the American’s don’t really do diesels, the one to go for is the 450h petrol hybrid. A combination of a 3.5 litre V6 and two electric motors generates 292bhp and whisks this heavy car up to 62 in 5.9 seconds. The build quality and attention to detail is extraordinary, up there with a Rolls. They’re a tad ex pensive, a 2011 plate with 25k on it comes in at £18,000.
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The Wildlife Zone...FP (Feb15)_Layout 1 21/01/2015 13:49 Page 1
THE WILDLIFE ZONE
THE BEAVER & THE MUSK RAT T Andy Mydellton FLS (pictured right) is an environmentalist journalist, the founder and leader of the British wildlife charity, the Foundation for Endangered Species. They are members of the United Nations agency UNESCO with Andy Mydellton being Chairman and the Environmental Concern Advisor to the UNESCO Schools Group. Andy is a Fellow of the Linnean Society. He writes for many publications, mounts photographic exhibitions, gives presentations and broadcasts the 'Andy Mydellton Wildlife Zone' radio programme.
he Beaver and Musk Rat often cohabit the same waters, and if some people see the animals from a distance these two species can get mixed up. However, they are different animals with different histories – and face very different futures, especially in Britain. Recently I led a conservationist break to New York State in the USA, where I studied Beavers. They live at Lincoln Pond in the Edmund Niles Huyck Preserve, where I was staying. Not only were these furry creatures great fun to look at, but their effect on the local habitat has been most beneficial. As with most Beaver areas, water levels are increased because of their dam building; lakes, backwaters, ponds, bogs and marshes are also created, with each habitat giving rise to a greater number of plants and animals. This is the end of the rainbow for many conservationists in particular, as well as for many natural history lovers. The Beaver is a dark brown furry mammal that lives its entire life in the water and on the banks. It is a peaceful animal, vegetarian and creates no problems for other creatures in the habitat. An indication of Beavers’ territory, as well as dams, is their very large log built lodges where they live and rear their family (as pictured below). I first began to value this riparian animal (one that lives in the water) when I found out that it was a British animal until it had been hunted to extinction, hundreds of years ago. The c19th and early c20th rural lifestyles depended on hunting, trapping and trading of animal meat and fur in the forests and waterways. A few people got rich with this hard and rugged lifestyle, but it was at a cost to many others. However, in the c20th some things began to change... Instead of harvesting the natural excess of animals, many people hunted and killed a greater number of Beavers that were sustainable. Overhunting led to damaging the core population. Fewer and fewer animals could be hunted each year as there were always less of them to kill. Furthermore, the surviving Beavers were more thinly spread throughout the river systems and became even harder to catch. The principle of unsustainable over-killing still continues in other parts of the world today. This can most easily be witnessed with unsustainable fishing. Statutory legislation soon followed to enforce the common good, and the Beaver became one of the first species in the battle for practical conservation. In the 1990s reintroducing the Beaver to Britain was finally on the political agenda. However this was a mountain to climb for British conservationists, as the state beaurocracy in conservation issues is an overwhelming obstacle. Despite this, conservationists waded through government waffle and red tape to get to the natural history benefits from this issue. Finally the Beaver’s reintroduction programme has begun at Knapdale, Fife in Scotland where it would most likely flourish. The plan has been carefully constructed to mirror similar programs that had proved to be successful throughout other European countries. After some success Beavers can now be seen living naturally in the UK once more, and many conservationists have been celebrating the country's first major animal to be officially reintroduced back into our countryside. Musk Rats also live near the Beaver lodge at Lincoln Pond, where Beavers seem to be happy with their presence. Musk Rats are also riparians measuring up to 25 inches. It is a surprising thing for many people that they are members of the vole family. Despite the name of ‘rats’, they are nearly the same size at small Beavers. The Musk Rats that I saw were nearly black and swam away from me almost immediately. Perhaps, like other rodents, they have learned to fear people. Like the Beaver, the Musk Rat was also once valued for its fur. So it was hunted extensively until it began to be farmed, in its native USA. After some commercial success, it was introduced into European countries for industrial production. Almost inevitably, some escaped into the British countryside and began to reproduce, becoming feral. Later Musk Rats were declared to be an invasive species. It was said that they caused severe damage when they burrowed deep into riverbanks. Rightly or wrongly, they were then exterminated from the countryside. Of course this bad experience here in Britain does not make the Musk Rat a bad animal per se, but it does make it an inappropriate animal to be allowed to exist in the British countryside. However, even this ‘inappropriateness’ is judged by humans and by our values, which usually boils down to economic considerations. The judgment was not necessarily based solely on their place in the ecological system. Since I have returned from the USA my affection for the magical Beaver has increased. I for one welcome its return to the British countryside as it increases our biodiversity, recreates another part of our heritage and allows us to be in the presence of a truly wonderful animal. However, the Musk Rat will never be able to return and hold a position as a British feral animal due to its previous existence here, however temporary it was.
The charities’ contact details are www.ffes.org.uk email: info@ffes.org.uk 66
my furry valentine day show them the love they deserve
Saturday 14th February 2015 10 am to 2 pm
RSPCA Hillingdon Clinic, 16 Crescent Parade, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, UB10 0LG Re-Homing Event
Microchipping £5
Come and meet some of our animals looking for love.
On the day, by appointment in advance only.
Discounted Cat Neutering Bookings Males £25 (normally £42) Females £36 (normally £50) Includes free microchipping. Call or visit and pay on the day to book an appointment for later date.
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On board a coach, and accompanied by more than a dozen officials from HS2 Ltd (the company tasked with planning and constructing the railway), plus a handful of councillors and the two local MPs, Dominic Grieve and Nick Hurd, the Select Committee was shown some of the points on our local compass that would be changed beyond recognition if HS2 gets the green light. Following them every step of the way was a convoy of cars carrying local campaigners, all of whom had a single objective: to convince the MPs that if HS2 has to be built, a tunnel under the valley should replace the existing scheme of a viaduct and overground line across it. Campaign banners, flags and road signs reinforced the message at all the key crossing points. Boaters on the Grand Union canal at Harefield temporarily blocked the waterway while the visitors watched from the canal bridge, listening to the views of concerned petitioners, who will have another chance to appeal to the Select Committee in the spring in the more formal setting of the House of Commons
Savay Farm, with views over the premier carp fishing venue of Savay Lake; Denham Water Ski Club, a thriving concern on another lake which is directly in the path of the proposed viaduct; and Chalfont Lane, lying next to the rolling farmland that would be transformed into a giant construction camp. Finally the coach climbed the hill to the car park outside the Old Orchard pub in South Harefield, with its unrivalled view of the valley and the Site of Special Scientific Interest at the bird colony of Broadwater Lake. And then, after little more than two hours, they were gone – to inspect some of the sites ‘over the border’ in Hillingdon that are similarly earmarked for unwanted development. A railway – especially a highspeed railway is much more than a single line. This one, cutting a 40metre wide metallic swathe through everything in its path, needs National Grid feeder stations for power, as well as workers’ camps, new access roads, realigned electricity pylons, storage units, cuttings, bunds and sizeable slices of land for the dispersal of spoil from tunnelling. Roads and footpaths will have to diverted or severed altogether. Lakes will have to be drained. Denham, Harefield, West Hyde, Ruislip and Ickenham will all suffer, unless we – through the Select Committee – can convince HS2 Ltd to redesign their railway in a more environmentally sensitive way. It was asking a lot of the MPs to take in all our petitioning points on such a short outing: they were back at the Westminster desks by teatime. The four who turned up listened attentively and asked pertinent questions. They appeared to understand the key issues, and showed genuine concern about the negligible compensation being offered to householders and businesses.
As well as the canal, the Select Committee visited the ancient manor house that is now 68
But in a single morning they couldn’t possibly get more than a flavour of what might lie ahead for the Colne Valley. There wasn’t time to visit more than one property close to the line, or to grasp the implications for the daily commute or school run on our already overstretched road system, or to inspect the SSSI at close quarters, or any of the ancient woodland that will have to be
destroyed, or examine the flooding and water contamination risk in riverside communities further afield, such as Higher Denham and Willowbank Without giving any guarantees, the Select Com mittee chairman said it was likely they would re turn for a closer look at a future date. We will do everything we can to ensure that they do come back to carry out a more thorough inspection. And, of course, we’ll continue lobbying for a Colne Valley tunnel. If you feel as strongly about this as we do, please write to our MP,
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Preparing for Warmer Weather by Pippa Greenwood
The combination of the poor weather in February and the very fact that gardens tend to be at their least appealing this month, means the chances are yours is receiving nothing much more than a fair helping of neglect at the moment. But spring isn’t far away so get your gardening gloves on for a bit of preparation. Start by clearing up any remaining fallen leaves, broken twigs. Twigs and woody debris are best binned or burned or perhaps even heaped up in the corner of the garden to act as a sheltering spot for wildlife, but fallen leaves, and the top growth of herbaceous perennials, can be added to the compost heap. When it comes to tackling herbaceous or flower borders, don’t make things look too clean and tidy, as you may well cut down on the protection that faded top-growth can provide. I tend to leave most of the remains of herbaceous plants in place until spring, but the most ugly, straggly or unkempt bits could certainly be cleared up now. Keep a particular look out for slugs and snails and collect them up while they are 70
snoozing!
It is too early in the year to cut your lawn and indeed you should try to keep off it as far as possible, but you can clear twigs and leaves and cut back any weeds which have grown faster than the grass itself.
You can use any pots or other containers which have been left around the garden to create spots of colour and interest by clearing them out, using fresh compost and then replanting them. If you choose temporary winter plantings such as winter flowering pansies or pompom winter daisies, then these can simply be removed when it is time to replant with summer bedding. Scrubbing down the outer surfaces of pots and containers will also help to clean them up again, because by now they have invariably accumulated a good helping of algae and soil and can look quite a mess. Check fruit trees for signs of any dead shrivelled fruit still on the branches and cut these out, as they often harbour brown rot disease and can cause a lot of problems in the future. However these definitely
shouldn’t be composted - bin or burn any you find.
Use a stiff brush to clear off surface debris from your terrace or patio and then once it is clear, if it still looks in need of a bit of a facelift, use the stiff brush or yard broom to scrub it over thoroughly. Provided freezing weather is not forecast, wash it over with a few buckets of water. A trip to your local garden centre is bound to give you plenty of ideas for what’s looking good this month. Some of my favourites include the small trees or shrubs which have a delicious fragrance during the winter months. These include winter sweet, hamamelis (witch hazel) and sarcococca. You can now buy pots of snowdrop bulbs which are not far from flowering so ‘cheat’ a little and pop a few of these into the ground. Winter flowering heathers and winter flowering pansies can also be used to great effect right now. Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ veg growing system , biological controls, fleece, copper tape and lots more besides.
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Tel. 01753 885556 www.EdenCareatHome.co.uk 71
DENHAM What's On... (Feb15)_Layout 1 29/01/2015 02:07 Page 1
REGULAR EVENTS... Events at Harefield Community Centre, Priory Avenue, UB9 6AP MON Cameo Club (3rd Mon month) 10am-12pm; Indoor Bowls (Short Mat) 2pm-5pm; Harefield Wine Club (2nd Mon in the month) 7.45-9.30pm; Judo (Seniors not 2nd Mon in month) 810pm. TUES Line Dancing 10.45am1.15pm; Bingo 7.45pm - 10.30pm. WED Fitness, Fun & Dance 10.30am12.00pm; Singing for Fun (1st Wed in month) 1-2.30pm; Judo Club 6.307.45pm; Dancing Club 8.15pm10.30pm. THURS Happy Families Group 9.45-11.45am; Tea Dances 24pm; Whist 7.30-10pm; Ladies Club (2nd Thur in month) 8-10pm. FRI Bridge Club 10.30am-12.30pm; Line Dancing 12.45-3pm; Indoor Bowls (Short Mat) 7.30-10pm. All enquiries to Lynne Mogge 01895 824621 or e: hare fieldcommunitycentre@btconnect.com
Centre, Harefield or call Phyllis Nash on 01895 476 644 / phyllnash@gmail.com Crosier Investment Club Improve personal investment skills. Meets 7.30pm, third Thursday in month at Pinner Village Hall, Chapel Lane, Pinner, HA5 1AA. Call 0208 427 3559, e: secretary@crosierinvestment.org.uk w: www.crosierinvestment.org.uk
Fitness League Tone & stretch exercises for the whole body, with fun dance routines to music for women of all fitness levels. Tue 7.308.30pm at Vyners School, Warren Road, Ickenham, UB10 8AB. Call Rosemary 01628 776838 before coming. www.thefitnessleague.com Fitness Yoga Improve flexibility, strength and balance. Monday 6-7pm at Denham Village Memorial Hall. Call Sandra 07867470240 Lisa 07533549072 E: lisa.sandra.fitness@gmail.com
Rock ‘n’ Roll Monday's in Harefield! Every Monday. Beginners Jive Dance Classes 7.45pm. Slow practise session 8.30-9pm. Social Rock n Roll 9-11pm. No partner required - no experience necessary! Harefield Cricket Club, Breakspear Road North, Harefield, UB9 6NE. £5 entry. E: therockingrebels @gmail.com, 07947 106607 www.facebook.com/therockingrebels 1950s Rock n Roll with DJs The Rocking Rebels 1st Friday of every month 7.3011.30pm. Retro stalls, BYO drinks. St Marys Church Hall, High St, Harefield UB9 6BX. Contact 07947 106607 therockingrebel@gmail.com www.facebook.com/therockingrebels
HOBBIES... Art Classes Drawing, pastels, oil & watercolour at New Denham Community Centre Autumn, Spring & Winter Terms Tue 1-3.30pm, Wed 12.45-3.15pm and 7.30-9.30pm. Call Tony 0207 243 3787 Art Smart Weekly Art Classes at Denham Village Hall. Drawing and Painting for beginn-ers and Improvers Thursdays 1.30-3.30pm. Tutor Roz Smith call 01494 670372 Chinese Brush Painting Group Come and join our friendly group meeting on Saturday mornings. The class is guided by an experienced tutor so no experience required! You will learn how to develop your own style as well as practicing Chinese calligraphy. Find us at Harefield Library, Park Lane Village
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Denham History Society Meets 2nd Tues of the month, 7.30pm St. Marks Hall, Denham Green. Call 01895 833989 Pamela@craftygiraffe.co.uk
Hillingdon Decorative & Fine Arts Society Enjoy 10 expert lectures a year about art and culture from around Britain. Outings to galleries & places of cultural interest. Receive NADFAS Review, Interested? Come along to a lecture, cost £6. See www.hillingdondfas.co.uk, email: membership@hillingdonfas.co.uk or call Ann Lowe 01895 638147 Hillingdon Natural History Society Meets 1st Wed of the month, Scout HQ, Gatting Way, Uxbridge. enquiries@ hillingdon-naturalhistory society.org.uk Inland Waterways Associations Meets 2nd Tues of every month at Hillingdon Canal Club, Waterloo Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX, 7.30pm. middlesex.social@waterways.org.uk
KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA... Aerobics Denham Village Memorial Hall. Every Mon and Wed 4.30-5.30pm Call Jean Nisbet 01895 832063 Bagot Stack (Fitness League) Term Time Only. Vyners School, UB10 8AB, Tue 7.30-8.30pm. Also Mon & Thu in Windsor. Call Rosemary 01628 776838. www.thefitnessleague.com Boot Camp Fun and friendly exercise class held at a private location in Gerrards Cross. Every Mon, Tues, Fri 9.15-10am. Qualified Personal Trainer and Level 3 Contact Julie on 07769 311789 or visit: www.juliegxfit.com Bootcamp Circuit for Adults (Mixed) Wednesdays, 7-8.15pm Denham Village Memorial Hall. Tel: Jayne 07968 361965 Dance, Gymnastics and Free Running Classes By Futunity Uk. Ages 2-adults catered for and all styles of dance from RAD ballet to Zumba. Full class listings at www.futunityuk.com. Call 01895 251224 or email admin@futunityuk.com
Fitsteps Cha Cha, Waltz, Quickstep or Jive at Denham Memorial Hall. Mondays 7pm and Wednesdays 10am. Call 07834 197745. info@limelightdancing.co.uk General Yoga Class Higher Denham Community Hall, Lower Road, Higher Denham, UB9 5EA. Wed 7.30-9pm. Thu 9.45-11.15am with BWY certified teacher tel: 01895 820267 Harefield Amateur Drama Society Tuesday, 8-10pm. Park Lane Village Centre, Park Lane, Harefield. Call Tony on 01895 820672 Jazzercise Classes New Denham Community Centre Mon 9.30-10.30am, Tues 6.45-7.45pm. Wed & Fri 10-11am, Thurs 10-11am. Denham Village Memorial Hall Village Rd, Denham, Bucks Thurs 6.30-7.30pm Wendy Whitefoord, Tel: 07803 602142 e: wendy.whitefoord@btinternet.com www.jazzercise.com Ladies Only Kickboxing Club Wed 6.30-8.00pm, Watts Hall, Redford Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1SZ. First Class FREE! Call Leanne Phillips on 07518 848285 e:leanne@kickboxinglondon. co.uk. www.kickboxing-london.co.uk Line Dancing At Higher Denham Community Centre, Off Old Rectory Lane, Higher Denham. Mon 7-10.15pm, starts with beginners, then onto improvers and finally from 9-10.15pm, Intermediates. Contact Christina on 07952 815076, email : c.capel477@btinternet.com, website wwww.chalfontlinedanceclub.co.uk or Facebook ‘chalfontlinedanceclub’ Modern Jive Classes Mon 8-11pm, West Drayton Community Centre and Tue & Thu 8-11pm, Uxbridge Civic Centre. First Night Entry & Free Lifetime membership with this listing. Contact Alan: 0208 933 4350 or 07860 250961 www.clubceroc.com email: alanandsue@clubceroc.com continued overleaf...
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DENHAM What's On... (Feb15)_Layout 1 29/01/2015 02:07 Page 2
KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA CONTINUED...
Social Line Dancing At St Marys Church Hall, Harefield Last Sat of the month 7.30-10.30pm
NoBiz Dance Local Musical Theatre school (based in Hillingdon ) classes in all genres of dance (Street dance, Hip Hop, Rhythm Tap, Lyrical, Singing, Drama & Musical Theatre) for children aged 4-22 years. Adult Street Dance Class for more call: Giselle 07525 857171 or Lisa 07777 611012. www.nobizlikeshowbiz.co.uk.
Tea Dance Harefield Community Centre, Priory Ave on Thurs 2-4pm. All welcome. Free car parking. Call John 01895 284428
Penny Lane Singing Lessons Monday singing classes 4-5.30pm 7yrs-12yrs and 5.30-7pm 12yrs-18yrs at Harefield Library, Park Lane, Harefield, UB9 6HW. For details see www.pennylanesinging.com or call 07951 294044.
Pink Academy of DANCE Classes held daily at New Denham Community Centre. For boys & girls from 2 years to Adults. Call 01895 257553 Admin@pinkacademy. co.uk www.pinkacademy.co.uk or call Rockin' 8s Square Dancing Modern American style - every Thurs 8.15pm. New Denham & Willowbank Community Centre, Oxford Road, New Denham. UB9 4DW. Call Jean 01895 622859 or paul@stingproductions.com SALSA (all styles) Every Monday at Uxbridge Community Centre, 32b The Greenway, Uxbridge UB8 2PJ from 7.45pm to 10pm. Come and join Mina Queen Salsa for some amazing fun. Call 07958 578962 or email mina@queensalsa.com Salsa Classes Every Monday: The Middlesex Arms, Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HG. Beginners class starts 8pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.45-9.30pm Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm Every Wednesday: The WatersEdge, Canal Cottages, Packetboat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. Beginners class starts 7:30pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.30-9.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm Simply Walk Langley & Black Parks Every Monday Langley Park, 10am Thursday Black Park, 10am. Second Sunday of month Langley Park at 11am. See www.friendsoflangleypark.co.uk Social Dancing Ballroom Latin & Sequence Harefield Community Centre, Priory Avenue, Harefield. Every Wed, 8pm. Beginners welcome. Call 01895 634674 Simply Walk in Denham First Sunday of every month. Denham Village Green 10.45am for 11am start. Approx. 90 minute walk, 2.5-3miles. Led by trained volunteers as part of a healthy walk scheme funded by Bucks County Council, local District Councils and Bucks PCT. For details of other walks call 01494 475367 or see www.buckscc.gov.uk/rightsofway
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Uxbridge Musical Theatre Ruislip Conservative Club, 56-58, Ickenham Road, Ruislip, Middlesex HA4 7DQ. Tuesday 8-10pm. Call Phil Harrison 01895 636367 Email: mail@umtheatre.co.uk or see www.umtheatre.co.uk
Zumba Fitness Every Wednesday 8-9pm at New Denham Community Hall, Oxford Road, UB9 4DW. Call Martine 07788 563572 www.zumbadolls.co.uk Zumba Fitness with Danielle Every Monday 7-8pm at Harefield Baptist Church. Call Danielle 07989 128131. www.zumba-class.co.uk Zumba Gold For Older Active Adults. Every Friday 11am at Higher Denham Community Hall, Lower Road, Higher Denham, UB9 5EA. Call Martine 07788 563572 www.zumbadolls.co.uk
Zumba with Ruddy Thurs 7-8pm, St Marks Hall Denham Green UB9 5HD and Sats 9.30-10.30am at Harefield Academy Northwood Way UB9 6ET. Call Ruddy 07901 828051
MUSIC... Drumbeatz Drum tuition for beginners in Denham by Melanie Kleyn, qualified HND, now on degree at ACM. Children over 8yrs, ladies, 3.15-5.30pm or daytime only. Email: drumsmel@gmail.com or text mobile on 07757 635880 Faraday Country Music Club in Slough SL2 1RN. Country Music every Thursday for listeners, western partners, freestyle or line dancers. From 8-11pm. Contact Deb 07986 050742. www.faradaycountry.co.uk Guitar Lessons Complete beginners welcome. Contact Sam for a FREE lesson 07798 588496 sam@uxbridgeguitarlessons.co.uk Music Lessons at Little Halings Studio Piano and French Horn lessons with experienced, friendly young female teacher, Victoria Coghlan. At Little Halings Studios in Denham. All welcome. Guitar tuition is also available. Call: 07737 493980 (Victoria) E: victocoghlan@gmail.com
Stoke Poges Singers A friendly four-part choir singing a wide variety of music. New members welcome (no auditions. The ability to read music is not essential. Rehearsals on Thursday at St Andrews Centre, Rogers Lane, Stoke Poges, 7.45pm. Come along or call Naomi on 07831 217575 or Anthea on 01753 662355 Sing for Fun - Adults No auditions or previous singing experience necessary. You must just enjoy singing! Higher Denham Community Hall, Wednesday (TT) 2.30-4pm. Call Avril on 07587 175640 The Windsor & District Big Bands Appreciation Society We meet on 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm, Datchet Hall, Horton Road, Datchet. Music of the big bands ‘40s & ‘50s Swing era. Two recitals from records, tapes & CDS, along with a raffle and sometimes there's even a live band. Call Derek Verrier on 01753 654398 Yiewsley & West Drayton Band Rehearse every Wednesday and Friday 8-10pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. To join or book the band for an engagement contact Lynne on 07976 824152 or email Lynne@ywdband.com Yiewsley & West Drayton Training Band Open to all ages wanting to learn to play a brass instrument or 'brush up' your skills. Every Wed during term time 6.457.45pm, St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. Contact Abi on 07985 302 856 or emailtraining@ywdband.com
PRE-SCHOOL & KIDS GROUPS... 2370 (Denham) Squadron Air Training Corps ATC HQ, Tilehouse Lane, Denham Aerodrome Denham, Bucks, UB9 5DN. Mon and Thurs 7.30-9.30pm. Recruiting 13-17 year old males and females. Call 01895 834522 (Mon & Thu only) 2nd Denham Scout Group Scout Hut, The Pyghtle, Denham Green Close, Denham Green Beavers Age 6-8 Thu 5.45-7pm. Cubs Age 8-10 Wed 6.30-7.45pm Scouts Age 10-15 Friday 7-9pm Tel: Linda Batten 01753 892373 continued overleaf...
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PRE-SCHOOL & KIDS GROUPS CONTINUED...
Denham & Gerrards Cross Children’s Centre Tilehouse School, Nightingale Way, Denham, UB9 5JL. Free sessions for families with children age 5 and under including Messy Play and Stay & Play sessions. Call 01895 835967. Denham Girlguides 1st Denham Rainbows (age 5-7) 4th Denham Brownies (age 7-10) 4th Denham Guides (age 10-14) For more details on meeting times visit www.gxanddenham.cfsites.org Denham Youth Club (ages 8-11 years) Higher Denham Community Hall, Lower Road, Uxbridge UB9 5EA. Thursday 6.15pm to 7.45pm. Call 01895 834313. Slough Sea Cadets Parade nights on Monday and Thursday 7.30-9.30pm at Langley Pavillion, Langley Road, Slough, SL3 8BS. Male & Female Junior Cadets (age 10-12 yrs) and Cadets (age 12-18 yrs). Fees £2 per week, courses from £5 for weekend. Visit us on Facebook, pop-in or email: sloughseacadets@yahoo.co.uk Stars at Knight After school Drama Club for children 7-18 yrs at Southlands Art Centre, 76 The Green, West Drayton. Tel: 0208 841 8940 / 07956 123626 e: starsatknightdrama@gmail.com www.starsatknight-schoolofdrama.co.uk Youths United Senior Youth Group in Denham, at Martin Bakers Social Club. Ages 12-18 years Wednesday evenings 7-309pm. Tel Joyce Haynes 01895 832643 Tiny Talk Baby Signing Classes Tuesday classes at St Mary’s Church Hall, High Street, Harefield UB9 6BX at 10am, price £5.00 pre-paid per family. Thursday classes at St Giles' Church Hall, 1 High Road, Ickenham UB10 8LE, 10am, 11.15am and 1pm, price £5.00 pre-paid per family Friday classes at The Uxbridge Centre, The Greenway, Uxbridge UB8 2PJ, 10.30am, price £5.00 pre-paid per family. Call Bev Meier 01895 824935 or 0781 8025993
SELF DEFENCE...
Karate Club of Denham For ages 5 years and up at New Denham Community Centre Sundays 9.15-11am Tel: Dominic 07988 743725 Karate Club of Uxbridge For ages 5 years and up The Uxbridge Centre, The Greenway Wed, 5pm-7pm Tel: Dominic 07988 743725 Kung Fu Club West Drayton Great Kung Fu work out for everybody, on: Tuesday 5.30-6.30, Friday 7.308.30, Sunday 5.30-6.30. West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Road, UB7 9JL. Contact Ella: 07702 479 435 or sportsclubuk@gmail.com Shotokan Karate Sports Hall, Tilehouse Lane, Denham for men, women and children age 8+. Monday, 7-8pm. Interested? Contact Erin on 01494 758079 or visit www.chilternkarate.co.uk Silat Kuntao Indonesian Self-Defence Traditional self-defence art from Central Java, includes empty hand, traditional weapons, meditation and healing massage. Adult classes only. Mon and Wed 8pm-10pm at Denham Village Memorial Hall, Denham, UB9 5BN. Call Philip Davies 07790 496 346 or email kuntao.matjan.uk@gmail.com.
SELF HELP & SUPPORT... Hillingdon Brain Tumour Group Support group held every 2nd Thurs of the month 12.30-2.30pm, Hillingdon Baptist Church, Hercies Rd, Hillingdon, UB10 9LS. Call 01895 637444. Slimming World New Denham Community Centre Tuesday, 10-11.30am. To register turn up at 10am, call Mandy 07879 897578
SOCIAL GROUPS... Denham Lions 1st and 3rd Monday of the month, 8pm at Denham Garden Village, Denham Green. 18+. info@denhamlions.org.uk
Tiny Toes Childcare Full Day Care Nursery. Call 01753 655650 or tinytoes@ivercommunity.org
Denham Wives Group Last Tuesday of each month at St. Mark’s Hall Denham Green 7.15pm. Contact Ann Collins 01895 833820 or acollins683@uwclub.net
Activities for families with children Children aged 0-5 years offered at The Denham and Gerrards Cross Children’s Centre, Nightingale Way, Denham, Bucks. UB9 5JL. Call 01895 835967
Friendly Whist Drive Harefield Community Centre, Priory Avenue, Harefield. Every Thurs 7.30pm. Beginners welcome. Contact Lyn on 01923 820173
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Rotaract Club of Langley & Iver Meet at 8pm every 2nd & 4th Tues of the month, the Red Lion Pub, Langley, SL3 7EN. A group of 18-30's. If you would like to meet new people, raise money and have many laughs contact us! www.langley-iver-rotaract.org.uk Stoke Poges Bridge Club meet at St Andrew’s Church Hall in Rogers Lane, SL2 4LN on Monday from 1.30-5.30pm for players who want to improve their game. Call 01753 642 438 www.stokepogesbridgeclub.org.uk Uxbridge Conservative Club Bingo, Carpet Bowls, Table Tennis, Lunches, Quiz & Race Nights etc. at 46 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 1PJ. Contact Georgina Baile on 01895 233653 or 07778 348082, e: udcc@btconnect. com or visit www.uxbconclub.com Women’s Social Group Social group for women. Looking to expand your social group and make new friends? We meet regularly for coffee, a chat - open women of all ages. Please call Seema on 07730 898635 or email seemaa@seemaa.co.uk
SPORT... Denham Bowls Club Denham Way, Denham, UB9 5AX. Lawn Bowling. Coaching available. Call Brian Simpson (Sec) on 01895 834007 or Jenny Johns on 01895 833845 Denham Cricket Club Playing or social members welcome. Way & Tillard Memorial Cricket Ground, off Cheapside Lane, Denham Village. Tel: Bill Nicholas 01895 834527 Pink Ladies Netball Club All welcome. Training at Stockley Academy, West Drayton every Tuesday. Senior training 16+yrs 7.30-9pm Back to Netball 16+yrs 7.30- 8.30pm Under 16s for details 01895 448878 email: plnetball@hotmail.co.uk visit www.pinkladiesnetball.co.uk Table Tennis Denham Village Memorial Hall Tuesdays 5.30-10pm. Call Richard Cottle on 01895 835292 Uxbridge Squash Club All squash players welcome. Uxbridge Cricket Club, Park Road, Uxbridge. See uxbridgesquash.org.uk or email: squash@uxbridgesquash.org.uk Tel: 01895 237571
6 0 0 2 4 6 8 8 0 2 4 6 8 2 4 6 8 2 6 8 0 1 2 4 4 6 8 0 2 4 6 8 0 6 8
se is pt by s. In rt 77
Peppered
Rib Eye Steaks with Red Wine Glaze
Serves 2
Ready in 20 minutes
Treat the one you love on February 14th to succulent pan-fried steak with a luxurious sweet red wine sauce.
Ingredients: • 150g baby new potatoes • 2 tsp black peppercorns • 2 x 250g rib eye steaks, trimmed of excess fat • 2 tsp olive oil • 3 tbsp redcurrant jelly • 3 tbsp red wine • 1 tsp cornflour blended with 1tbsp cold water • 15g butter • 2 tsp fresh chopped parsley • Steamed baby carrots, mange tout and peas, to serve
Tip: Sirloin, fillet or rump steak can be used in place of the rib eye. Make sure both steaks are an even thickness and always bring the steaks to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. Resting the steaks for a few minutes after cooking will also help to ensure they are meltingly tender. 78
Cook the baby new potatoes in a pan of lightly salted water for 10-15 minutes until just tender. Meanwhile, crush the peppercorns coarsely using a pestle and mortar or the end of a rolling pin. Press firmly over both sides of the steaks. Set a griddle pan over a medium heat to preheat. Brush both sides of the steaks with oil. Place the steaks on the hot griddle pan and cook over a high heat for 1 minute on each side until seared. Reduce the heat and continue cooking for a further 2-4 minutes on each side until the steaks are cooked to your liking. Remove the steaks and cover and leave to rest for 2-3 minutes. Place the redcurrant jelly and red wine in a small pan and heat gently until the jelly has completely dissolved. Stir in the cornflour mixture and simmer for a further minute until slightly syrupy. Drain the potatoes, toss with the butter and parsley and season to taste. Transfer the steaks to warmed plates and spoon over the sauce. Serve with the potatoes and steamed vegetables.
14 11:27
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