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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
Children’s Puzzle Page 8 Local Artist: Reg Fisher 10 Wordsearch 10 Tech: Something in the Air 12 Recipe: Rib Eye Steak with Red Wine Glaze 14 Property Matters 16 Local Events 20 Life Begins: Five Tips to Feed the Flame 22 Coffee Break Puzzles 24 Around Britain: Political World 26 Puzzle Solutions 26 Beauty: Hot Hair Tips 28 Breakthrough for Sciatica Sufferers 30 Interiors: How to Create a Romantic Style 32 Health: Tackling Tinnitus 34 Zoe Hart 36 Finance: PPI Is it still worth considering? 38 Golden Years: Memories of 50 Years Ago 42 Karen Munro: Careers 44 And Another Thing 46 Reader Holidays 48 Hobbies: Get Ready for the Cycling Revolution 50 Coaching from the Heart 52 Short Story: The Crafty Catch 54 Citizens Advice Bureau 56 RSPCA Re Homing Appeal 56 Richings Park Residents Association 58 Gardening Feature 60 Iver/Iver Heath Schools Community 62 Pets Corner 64 Wildlife Zone 66 Used Cars: Prestige Executive Saloons 70 Clubs, Groups & Classes 72,74,76 & 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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E
ton End School is an Independent Preparatory Day school located in over 6 acres of rural countryside on the outskirts of Datchet.
One chil�hoo�
We welcome boys age 3 – 7 and girls age 3 – 11. Pastoral care is our strength and personal development is as important as academic attainment.
“The pace and variety
of activities and learning initiatives across the school are stunning” Current Parent, Autumn 2011
One E�ucation
Eton End School 35 Eton Road • Datchet • Berkshire • SL3 9AX Tel: 01753 541075 Email: admin@etonend.org Website: www.etonend.org For further information or to arrange a visit please contact our Registrar
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A43770 Eton End Generic Ad A6 landscape.indd 1
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25/10/2011 10:28
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.
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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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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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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 12
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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Peppered
Rib Eye Steaks Serves 2
with Red Wine Glaze 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. 14
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.
Building Construction/Bricklaying Extensions & Loft Conversions Patio/Paths/Block Pave Driveways Decking Kitchen & Bathroom Installation Plumbing & Heating Electrical Services Rewires
Plastering & Tiling Painting & Decorating Fencing Roofing Carpentry & Joinery UPVC Fascias & Guttering
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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 16
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.
s m s s o m
s m
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FREE ONE DAY PASS? THAT’S BETTER… We are Better, your local leisure centre.
Try our facilities for free and enjoy the full benefits of a Better prepaid membership for a whole day. With a wide
range of activities on offer, including exercise classes and gym, you’re bound to find something you’ll enjoy.
For more information, visit www.better.org.uk or email grace.curry@gll.org Evreham Sports Centre Swallow Street, Iver Bucks, SL0 0HS 01753 672 610 Terms & Conditions apply
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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.
Local Events February into March 2015 20
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
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. 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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Five Tips To Feed
The Flame
by Kate McLelland Ask any long-established, middle-aged couple how they keep romance alive, and there’s a good chance they will laugh out loud. It’s not surprising. All those shared experiences of childrearing, family crises, career ups-and-downs and house moves can leave you with a “joined-at-the hip” feeling that’s a million miles away from the attraction to an exotic “other” you felt when you first fell in love. The number of people aged sixty years and over heading off to the divorce courts (aptly dubbed “Silver Splitters”) has risen by forty five per cent over the last decade and one of the main reasons for this dramatic statistic is that people are now living longer and seeking more from their relationships. So what is the secret when it comes to keeping love alive? Here are five key tips to keep your relationship fresh: 1. Challenge yourself and your partner Trying out new pastimes and hobbies or travelling to new places can be great ways to revive a tired relationship, but the key word here is “new”: it’s important to move out of your comfort zone. You’ll be surprised how quickly the spark returns 22
when you do something unexpected or face a challenge together. 2. Hug more, praise more Have you both fallen out of the habit of touching, hugging and smiling? Giving the odd kiss or word of encouragement? It may be difficult to start hugging and kissing your partner if you don’t usually behave in that way, but begin by looking for small opportunities to offer praise and physical reassurance and gradually build up from there. With luck – and given enough time - your partner will respond in the same way. If not, then have an honest discussion about why physical contact is important to you. 3. Don’t create your own stereotypes You’re not “mum” and “dad” to each other. Avoid the trap of falling into cosy stereotypes that prevent you from expressing your individuality. Remember that friends and family may also be reluctant to see you change, so gently assert yourself if you’re feeling under pressure to conform to their expectations. 4. Eavesdrop on your own conversations Listen to yourself as you talk
with your partner and make a mental note of any negative conversational habits. Some couples constantly put each other down, while others know each others’ thoughts so well they tend to finish each others’ sentences. Neither approach is particularly helpful if you want to refresh your relationship, so if you’re not happy with what you hear, start working out ways to improve your communication. 5. Don’t be afraid of nostalgia There’s no shame in indulging in a little nostalgia. Revisit the music you first listened to together, look at old photographs and go to places that were once important to you both. Enjoy your shared history and think back to the spark that made it all happen. You’ll need courage and honesty to break down habits that have built up over years. It may take time for the process to work, but it will be worth it in the end. If you can tap into some of the excitement of your youth by discovering new interests and rediscovering old pleasures, there’s every chance you’ll relight a flame that will keep you warm for many years to come.
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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 25
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Beauty Hot Hair Tips
For Your
by Helen Taylor
enjoy trying out any and every style you fancy.
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 28
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”
Disguising a high forehead is easy, all you need is a fringe. Choose whatever kind you like; layered, heavy or wispy. “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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GNH_in&around_dps_Feb2015_Layout 1 14/01/2015 17:49 Page 1
In and Around
holidays
Home & Interiors How to create romantic style at home
trimmed with lace, embroidery soft and tactile or buttons, while in the kitchen fabrics such as an old-fashioned dresser is just angora, mohair the thing, piled with vintage or cashmere, or patterned crockery. perhaps warm and snuggly wool No romantic home would be or felt. Choose complete without atmospheric floral patterns lighting, which is best achieved that look as if by combining a variety of they’re worn or light sources – a central faded (definitely chandelier perhaps, together not digitally with a selection of wall and printed or table lights, the latter small modern in style) and graceful rather than large – you just can’t beat classics Who wouldn’t fall in love with and imposing. Don’t forget such as roses, hydrangeas, romantic style? Feminine, that twinkly fairy lights and delicate and oh-so pretty, this peonies and the like, especially a selection of candles or tea when they’re hand-drawn is a timeless look that will lights (preferably scented) will or block-printed. Decorative in Flames Cochem work in all styles of home,The Rhine really add atmosphere to your details are important, too: from a bijoux city apartment home. embroidery, borders, ruffles and to a grand country pile, says And speaking of finishing scalloped edgings will enhance Katherine Sorrell touches, choose surface even the plainest of fabrics, finishes that are shiny and Make your home a haven and since a little goes a long reflective, from mirror to pearl, from everyday worries with a way there is no need to break polished metal to glazed romantic decorating style that the bank to achieve the desired ceramics. Accessorise with fine takes you worlds away from the effect. Koblenz Thechina Rhineteacups Gorge and cake stands, busy bustle of modern life. It’s a As for furniture, opt for simple, delicately etched glassware and look that is eternally charming country-style or shabby chic bone-handled cutlery. One or and appealing, pretty as a furnishings in natural pine or two heart-shaped pieces add to picture, soft and dreamy and else painted in pale and pretty the effect – as will a scattering completely irresistible. colours. You may wish to go of small ornaments, from The first offered ingredient? birds and animals to female Holidays bySumptuous to town in the bedroom with Departs 22 September, a canopied or half-tester2015 bed fabrics, of course. Think figures. Last, but definitely not GN Holidays (if you’re on a budget, simply lacey trims around the edges least,pp add•flowers everywhere 8 days semi-all-inclusive, from £ Quote: RN9-IA & Voyages hang generous amounts of of pillowcases, napkins or possible, in vases and milk Higher Denham hemmed, sheer fabric from cushions, or even entire panels jam jars and other This fun-packed cruise visits historic bottles, INCLUDED: Escorted throughout a hoop above the bed for a (especially vintage or antique) Roses or St ABTA NoY0291 •ATOL 9362 riverside towns including Cochem, informal • Returncontainers. rail travel from London similar effect), combined with hung across a window or ranunculas, alliumson or request) asters to Rudesheim, Koblenz and Boppard, where Pancras (Ebbsfleet Riverover Cruise blissfully beautiful bed linen: thrown a bed. Gorgeous. – informal arrangements of you will perhaps experience thewhite wine festival Brussels and coach transfer to www.gnvoyages.co.uk crisp cotton and see old-fashioned Sheers are also perfect for this blooms with a the Rhine in Flames festival.threadwork Originally held lovely Cologne or will return Cologne edged with drawn look. Employ organza, chiffon, scent be flights sure totobring Coach Breaks grape harvest, this romance the with - supp’t may apply • 7 nights fulland topped a vintage tulle, georgette and voile in to celebrate to any home. www.gnholidays.com spectacular pyrotechnics features an board cruise on the mps chintzy eiderdownshow or satin opulent swathes and gathers, By Katherine Sorrell quilt. In theofliving room,and optcurtains Amsterdam sharing a twin outside flotilla riverboats and themweekdays with crisp illuminated Open 9amlayer to 5.30pm Main Image: These embellished 9.30am to 12.30pm for a plump and (of cottons and linens for interest of fire, bathing the scene in acourse) magical glow. cabincushions (TCB) onhave MainaDeck - and gentle SaturdaysSince how things comfortable sofa, chaise longue and appeal. We have chartered the lovely mps upgrades • Welcome drink romanticavailable feel. From £19.99, all or armchair in afor traditional style, feel is just as important as how Home, 01628471056; Amsterdam exclusively this cruise. With Retreat on arrival • Beer,telwine, & soft drinks with cushions they look, add some deliciously just 98piled guests and a and cosy,bolsters friendly served atwww.retreat-home.com lunch and dinner and atmosphere, this will surely be a cruise to from 6pm to midnight at the bar 32 • Entertainment • Transfers abroad remember.
Free Drinks
Call 01895 83 33 33 for bookings and information
I
E
•
e
Rhine in Flames & Moselle River Cruise by Rail or Air 889
I
•
H
e
Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough QUOTE: EA3-IA
QUOTE: TD3-IA
e
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
QUOTE: HA4-IA
QUOTE: DG5-IA
HARROGATE SPRING FLOWER SHOW & YORK
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
• 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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Health Tackling Tinnitus
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
By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk
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 34
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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. www.zoehart.co.uk - 07747 063 149
Hi, I’m Zoe and I run a local children’s disco service. 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 37
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 38
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.
39
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Golden Years Memories of 50 Years Ago by Ted Bruning equipped French invaded the north and found themselves facing Americanequipped Viet Minh guerrillas. The Viet Minh gained yet more American weaponry in 1950 from Mao Dze-Dong, who had captured it from the defeated Chinese Nationalists; the Nationalist One of the most significant had originally been given it milestones in America’s by the Americans to fight the long involvement in Vietnam Japanese. Truman responded probably didn’t even make with a $15m donation to the the newspapers; but when, French warchest; by the time on February 9th, a US Marine the French were defeated and Corps air defence battalion arrived to establish a base at Da driven out in 1954 he had given them £3bn, and 80% of their Nang, it changed history. The Americans had already been equipment was American. By then the US was too deeply active in Vietnam since 1942 involved to walk away, but when they started supplying couldn’t afford to get pulled into Ho Chi Minh’s resistance movement, the Viet Minh, to fight another Korea and satisfied itself instead with supporting the Japanese. After the French the South first with arms and reoccupied Saigon in late 1945 money, then with “advisers”. the US started supplying them (The first two Americans killed instead, since France was far too broke to equip its own army. in Vietnam, Maj Dale Ruis and Sgt Chester Ovnand, on A year later the American-
July 8th 1959, counted as “advisers”). When Kennedy took office in 1961 the Cold War was getting a whole lot hotter. The Pentagon wanted to send in ground troops, but JFK refused – more “advisers” and weapons went over instead. Lyndon B. Johnson had fewer qualms and in August 1964 started bombing Hanoi following a (possibly staged) naval clash in the Gulf of Tonkin. He said he “wasn’t about to send American boys 10,000 miles from home to do what Asian boys ought to be doing for themselves”, but he did anyway: those USMC air defence troops were the first of over 2,000,000 Americans who served in ‘Nam in the next eight years. More than 47,000 came home in body-bags; 153,000 were seriously wounded. In the process America’s civil society was almost ripped apart and his nobler ambitions – the Great Society, the War on Poverty – were utterly swamped. And the North won.
Also in 1965
These days, American “advisers” have been deployed to Iraq...
February 1965 saw not only a very significant milestone in the Vietnam War, but an equally significant date in the Apollo Moon landing programme. On February 20th, the Ranger 8 probe crashed in the Sea of Tranquillity having transmitted 7,137 pictures of what was to be Apollo 11’s eventual landing site. The first six Rangers were complete failures; Ranger 7 took 4,300 general pictures; but it was Ranger 8 that made Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin’s epoch-making “short step”, exactly four-and-a-half years later, a practical possibility. Apollo and its associated programmes including Ranger, Lunar Surveyor, and Lunar Orbiter cost the American taxpayer about $25bn. Whether it was money well spent is a matter of personal opinion – but it has to be better value than the £111bn spent on the Vietnam War over the same period.
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Happy 50th birthdays to Princess Stephanie of Monaco and Sherilynn Fenn (1st); Dr Dre (18th), Kieren Fallon (22nd), Sylvie Guillem (23rd); and Kristin Davis (24th). Cake and botox to you all!
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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. 44
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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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?”
as well go home now.” 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 46
“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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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
E
•
e
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
I
•
H
e
Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough QUOTE: EA3-IA
QUOTE: TD3-IA
e
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
QUOTE: HA4-IA
QUOTE: DG5-IA
HARROGATE SPRING FLOWER SHOW & YORK
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
• 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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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 50
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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Ann Rennie is an experienced coach, mentor and trainer. She is based in Iver Heath and works through Skype and by phone with a wide range of clients. She has a corporate background which combines sales, customer service and managing major projects. Her real passion is supporting individuals in making the changes in their thinking and behaviour that produce a transformation in the results they experience. With qualifications in NLP, sales and retail management and project management she draws on her own experience of what works in the real world with best practice from current research to create bespoke solutions. Her mantra is ‘don’t get it perfect, get it done’ and her focus on taking action led a client to describe working with her as ‘like having your own personal business supernanny’.
Are you like the majority of the UK population who made resolutions at New Year? If you are, then by the end of the first week you were wavering or had given it up entirely. Have you noticed how we set goals then when one thing doesn’t go to plan we abandon it altogether? Stop beating yourself up about it – it just means you are human! I wanted to share 5 tips to reboot your motivation and for you to begin again: Review the resolution – do you talk and think all the time about what you are giving up and the pain, the deprivation, the difficulty? Focus on what you will gain and how amazing success will be – imagine how you will feel, look, talk and how confidence could grow through sticking with it. Be realistic – set minigoals on the way! If it is weight loss – don’t work out how much and how many weeks as if every week will be the same. Build in some time for the fact that change is not linear. Remember 28 days is needed to change a habit – so if you slip see it as just that! Keep it in proportion – accept you had that cake or
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missed that gym session or whatever it is and that is all. And keep going.it is about persistence. The main difference between those who succeed and those who don’t is simple – those who succeed keep going! Celebrate even small milestones – recognise and enjoy them to give yourself a regular boost. Don’t listen to negative selftalk – bin it and replace it with affirmations that inspire you. And don’t listen to all those who have given up – they don’t want you to succeed because they have failed and they may be a little jealous of your success. And just one more thought, if you are setting the same resolution this year as last and, maybe, the one before then you don’t want it enough. Be honest and ask – what am I prepared to give up to get this and am I prepared to stop talking and take action? If the answer is know then you don’t have a strong enough reason to change. Apply these tips and see if your resolutions can be rejuvenated in February!
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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 54
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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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 56
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The Airports Commission consultation has now closed. We and others have submitted our objections to the proposals but there will still be lobbying activities going on which we will post on our website. Maps from the recent consultation event held by the ( the extended existing northern runway option with the hub station /T6 at Iver) are on our website. There was little information available regarding noise, additional freight traffic etc nor any more detailed information about the Hub station /terminal 6. We now have more detailed maps (on our website) from showing their projected noise contours for aircraft noise and ground noise. It is clear that we will be significantly affected but there is little chance of any compensation payments being made.
the Heathrow Express trains on the old Langley oil terminal. This also requires the building of a number of train lines across the narrow strip of green belt between here and Langley. This will result in noise and disturbance for our residents as well as those in Langley.
Is your sleep disturbed by a low rumbling noise coming from Heathrow at night? This is ground noise which seems to be a particular problem in our area and we have at last persuaded Heathrow Airport Ltd that it is an issue. Please record any instances when you hear this noise on the survey form on our website so that we can let Heathrow the extent of the problem. It is important to record if you sleep is disturbed in the comments box.
If you have not already done so please remember to pay your subscriptions to your road steward or at the Post Office. Details
Network Rail intend to hold a consultation event on their proposals for this scheme at the Sports Club on . Their surveyors have been busy looking at the route of the tunnel for this proposal and you may well have seen them in the field to the north of North Park or by Chequers Bridge.
HS2 are now planning to locate the depot for the overnight cleaning and servicing of 58
on our website if you lose the envelope delivered to you.
01895 438 811 07825 986 762
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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 60
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.
,
o
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The Autumn term was another busy term at IVJS. We had many celebrations including Harvest and our Christmas Production. The whole school gathered together to celebrate Harvest with parents joining us for our assembly. A large collection of food was collected and this was delivered to a homeless charity in Slough and to some of our local residents in Iver.
Sport plays a big role at our school, with our two sports coaches teaching PE across the school and developing our school teams. Our football team was very active during the first term of the year. They took part in many matches and are shaping up to be a really good team.
Christmas saw the school gather together again for our annual carol concert. This was led by our school choir with parents and staff joining in for a lovely Christmas sing along. The lower school also put on an amazing Christmas Production called, 'The Peace Child'. The singing and acting was fantastic and our younger children did us proud. During the Autumn Term parts of our school were given a face lift by some volunteers from O2. We were also able to purchase lockers for all the children from money raised by our parents. Eltze estate agents also ran an art competition for our children, with the art work being displayed in their shop window. The winner was Emily in year 6 and she was awarded an ereader by Eltze estate agents.
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The Spring term has started and looks to be just as busy and exciting. We have already had an Art week where the children all had the opportunity to work with a professional artist to create their own painting on canvas. Every child also helped to create a new school sign and a painting of our values.
In a couple of weeks the Science Museum is going to be visiting us and running workshops for all of our children. This will include working with gunge!!!
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Pets Corner... (Feb15)_Layout 1 21/01/2015 12:51 Page 1
RABBIT QUICK STATS: Life span: 6 to 8 years Weaning: 7 to 8 weeks Sexual maturity: 16-24 weeks Gestation: 30-33 days Litter size: Average 7, Range 4-12
Keeping Rabbits... CONTINUING on from last time, this month we look at another small pet - the Rabbit...
HOUSING AND HANDLING: Rabbits are very sociable animals and need companionship. They can be kept happily together but strangers may fight. It is commonly believed that guinea pigs are good companions for rabbits but this often leads to the rabbit bullying it's companion. In any case allow for separate sleeping quarters and 'bolt holes' like bits of old piping for privacy. Rabbits make very good house pets and can be housetrained. A hutch may make a secure sleeping place out-ofdoors but is not suitable for long periods of time. Outdoor rabbits should be provided with a large run preferably with mixed hard and grass surfaces. It is important to handle your rabbit as much as possible to reduce aggression but remember, some rabbits do not like to be held so it may be safer to handle them on the ground. Regularly examine your rabbit especially for overgrown teeth and claws and under the tail for signs of contamination with faeces and urine, and fly strike. FEEDING: Rabbits should be fed on a diet that is high in fibre. It is not advisable to feed an all-in-one muesli style/mixed flakes diet and never give sweet treats. Fresh hay (preferably Timothy hay) should be offered ad lib with approx. 25 grams per kilogram of extruded pellets and around a cupful a day of mixed fresh greens but avoid succulent vegetables, fruit, iceberg lettuce and carrots apart from their tops. Fresh grass is ideal but lawn grass may be poor in fibre. Some garden plants may be poisonous and too much clover can cause bloat. Rabbits produce two types of droppings: soft green caecotrophs that they recycle and hard brown faeces. Rabbits with sore teeth, or if they are overweight, from a poor diet, may not be able to eat the caecotrophs and these can adhere to the fur around the anus. This can lead to fly strike. NEUTERING: Female rabbits (does) should be neutered, not only to prevent unwanted litters but to prevent ovarian cancer and other uterine disorders. Male rabbits don't need castrating (so long as the doe is neutered!) unless there are particular behavioural problems. VACCINATION: Even indoor rabbits should be vaccinated against two fatal diseases: Myxomatosis and Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (VHD). Myxomatosis is transmitted by 64
biting insects, so outdoor rabbits are particularly at risk. It causes a severe respiratory disease with swelling of the face and head. VHD can be transmitted on contaminated hay and straw and causes an acute respiratory disease with bleeding from the lungs. PARASITE CONTROL: Rabbits should treated for worms and E.cunicili 2-4 times a year. They commonly suffer from fleas, a fur-mite called Cheylitiella and ear mites. Rabbits that are not kept clean will attract blow flies, the maggots of which can literally eat them alive!. While it is essential to keep your rabbit clean there are products are available from vets to help prevent these distressing problems.
M C Atkinson BVSc MRCVs www.stmartinsvetclinic.com
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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 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.
T
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
BUCKINGHAM
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Off Oxford Road, Gerrards Cross Buckinghamshire SL9 7DP The home provides five-star accommodation for 53 residents each room is en-suite and decorated to a luxurious hotel standard. Buckingham House also boasts a café, 2 dining rooms and a hair and beauty salon, amongst its outstanding facilities.
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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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 70
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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FLOWERS & GARDENING... Iver Flower Club The Coppins Room, Iver Village Hall, Grange Way, Iver, SL0 9HW. Meets 4th Thursday of month, 7.30pm. Call Jayne on 07730 249876. Visit: www.bbando.org.uk/clubs/iver
Bobbin Lace Making Group Every Thu 7.30pm at Southlands House, The Green, Swan Road, West Drayton. Call Julie 020 8897 9368 or Margaret 01895 851349 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 compose and develop your own Chinese painting style as well as practicing the finer points of Chinese calligraphy often seen on paintings. Find us at Harefield Library, Park Lane Village Centre, Harefield or contact Phyllis Nash on 01895 476 644 / phyllnash@gmail.com Inland Waterways Association Meet 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... Adults Zumba Classes Running on Wednesdays 6-7pm at Iver Heath Village Hall, Saint Margaret's Close. Call Diane on 07926 854184 Bagot Stack (Fitness League) Term Time Only. Vyners School, UB10 8AB on Tue 7.30 - 8.30pm. Also in Windsor Monday & Thursday. Call Rosemary 01628 776838 www.thefitnessleague.com 72
class. Shaun Thompson, 07906 087749 www.tauruspt.co.uk
Iver Heath Garden & Allotment Club Iver Heath Village Hall. Every 2nd Monday of the month at 8pm. Call Barbara Thompson Programme Secretary 01895 235213. Contact email address is Ann McCullough Secretary amcc100@gmail.com HOBBIES...
Ballet Classes Iver Heath Village Hall, Friday 4.457pm. Call L Killian 01753 814280
Bokwa Fitness Tone & Core Bokwa Dance Fitness Over-50's group Energetic workout that anyone can pick up, dancer or not. Saturdays 10.30-11.30am, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Contact Penny 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk
Boxfit Saturdays 9.45-10.45am at the Evreham Sport Centre, Iver. An exciting class which uses focus pads and gloves to enhance an excellent aerobic workout. Call 01753 672610 Children's Zumba (Zumbatomic) Classes Wednesdays at 3.30-5.30pm at Iver Heath Village Hall, Saint Margaret's Close. Call Diane on 07926 854184
Futunity Street Dance and Hip Hop for children age 7-11 years. Fri's from 4-9pm call Cheryl on 01753 651754 or email childcare@ivercommunity.org Modern Jive Classes Monday 8-11pm at West Drayton Community Centre Tuesday & Thursday 8-11pm at Uxbridge Civic Centre Beginners Welcome – First Night Entry & Free Lifetime membership with this listing. Contact Alan: 0208 933 4350 or 07860 250961 www.clubceroc.com email: alanandsue@clubceroc.com Donna’s Keep Fit Iver Heath Village Hall. Call Donna 01753 674945. Tue 9.45-10.45am
Hour of Power - Ultimate Workout Wed 7pm at the Evreham Sports Centre, Iver. Call 01753 672610. INSANITY Classes Mon & Thurs 8.15-9pm. St Peters Centre, Iver. £5 per class. Call Rachel on 07745 622011. Iver Heath Drama Club Meet every Wednesday at Iver Heath New Village Hall between 7.45pm & 10pm. Contact Matt Streuli email: matt@ihdc.co.uk or www.ihdc.co.uk Jazzercise Classes New Denham Community Centre Monday 9.30am-10.30am and Tuesday 6.45pm-7.45pm. Wednesday and Friday 10-11am Denham Village Memorial Hall Village Road, Denham, Bucks. Thursday 6.30-7.30pm. Contact Wendy Whitefoord, Tel: 07803 602142 or email: wendy.whitefoord@btinternet.com www.jazzercise.com Ladies Only Kickboxing Club Wednesdays, 6.30-8.00pm at Watts Hall, Redford Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1SZ. First Class FREE! Just turn up or call Instructor Leanne Phillips on 07518 848285 email: leanne @kickboxing-longdon.co.uk www.kickboxing-london.co.uk Nordic Walking & Wellbeing Explore our borough’s green spaces . with all round exercise in the open air, 4 week courses various days and locations pre booking essential contact 07771872592 / learningmoves@hotmailco.uk
Evreham Adult Learning Centre Please call 0845 045 4040 to book the following… Gentle Yoga Wed 13.30-14.30. Class suitable for beginners to intermediate level. Cost £50 for 10 weeks. Fully qualified Exercise To Music Instructor.
Personal Training Looking for some extra help to get fit & into shape? For more info and prices call Rachel on 07745 622011
Fitness Club St Catherine School, Money Lane, West Drayton, UB7 7NX. Thu 6-7pm Circuits, Fitness and Boxercise. £5 a
Pilates Class St Peters Centre, Iver. Tuesday 7-8pm. Julie Hall 07976 966 583
Pilates Iver Heath Village Hall on Thurs 7pm8pm call Mrs S Webb 01923 721335
continued overleaf...
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KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA CONTINUED...
Toddler & Junior Fitness Fun Junior Trampolining Weds 4.30pm5.30pm held at the Evreham Sports Centre Iver. Call 01753 672610.
sometimes a live band. If you like to reminisce, do come along and join us! Contact Derek on 01753 654398
Pilates and Tai Chi Fit courses Tuesdays 7.30-8.30pm, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Contact Penny 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk
Pinewood Fitness The Fitness Room, Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, Sl0 0NH. Mon 20.00-21.00, Wed 19.30-20.30. Booking only. Various Fitness Circuits, Boxercise, Gym Work. £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, 07906 087749 www.tauruspt.co.uk Richings Players Perform three plays each year usually at Iver Village Hall. If you would like to become a member call Adrian on 01753 652843 or www.richingsplayers.com Salsa Classes Every Monday: The Middlesex Arms, Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HG. Beginners class starts 8pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.459.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm. Every Wednesday: The WatersEdge, Canal Cottages, Packetboat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. Beginners class starts 7:30pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.309.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm Tap Dance Mondays 7.30-8.30pm at Meadows Community Centre, West Drayton. Adult Beginner/Intermediate tap. No exams. Contact 01895 420409 / learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk Taurus Circuits Pinewood Studio. With Personal Trainer Shaun. Monday 8pm-9pm Booking only 07906 087749 Tai Chi Classes Tues 10am at the Evreham Sports Centre, Iver. Call 01753 672610 Tai Chi Classes Every Saturday 10-11am, Yiewsley Methodist Church, Fairfield Road, UB7 8EY. Call Dan 07880 601429
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Yoga Iver Heath Village Hall Mon 6.30-7.45pm Jonathan Bell 07790 682238
ZUMBA Mon 7-8pm & Tues 7-8pm St. Mary's Church Centre, Langley Thurs 7-8pm St. Francis Church Hall, Langley.
ZUMBA Fitness Classes Mon & Thurs 7-8pm. St Peters Centre, Iver - all levels welcome! Call Rachel on 07745 622011. ®
Zumba Fitness Weds 8-9pm at Langley Grammar School Sport Centre Reddington Drive Langley, SL3 8LL and Thurs 7-8pm at Yiewsley / West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Rd, West Drayton UB7 9JL.Call Gabriel 07735 090325, gabrielzumba@instructor.net www.gabriel84.zumba.com MUSIC... Faraday Country Music Club in Slough SL2 1RN. Join us for the best live Country Music every Thursday for listeners, western partners, freestyle or line dancers. From 8-11pm. Contact Deb 07986 050742. www.faradaycountry.co.uk Iver Singers Singing for Fun We’re a friendly group who meet every Tuesday (term time) at Evreham Adult Education Centre, between 7.30pm and 9.30pm. No Auditions. No previous experience necessary. Please contact Sara Adams: sara@ iversingers.com, 07733 466177, or visit www.iversingers.com for more. The Windsor & District Big Bands Appreciation Society Meet on 2nd Wed of each month at 7.30pm, Datchet Hall, Horton Rd, Datchet. Meetings feature the music of the big bands of the 40s & 50s Swing era. Two recitals from records, tapes & CDs, along with a raffle and
Signature A Cappella singers We meet on a Monday night at Iver Heath Village Hall, St Margaret’s Close, Iver Heath SLO 0DQ. Time 7.45-10.30 with a ten minute break for a cup of tea, a chat and a biscuit. If you enjoy singing please come along to watch us one evening or visit www.signaturesingers.com Stoke Poges Singers A friendly four-part choir with about forty members singing a wide variety of music during the year. New members are always welcome and there are no auditions. The ability to read music is not essential. Rehearsals on Thursday evening at St Andrews Centre, Rogers Lane, Stoke Poges from 8pm. Come along to a rehearsal or contact Naomi on 07831 217575 or Cheryl on 01753 655682. www.stoke-poges-singers.org Yiewsley & West Drayton Band Rehearse every Wednesday and Friday 8-10pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. To join or book the band contact Lynne on 07976 824152 or email Lynne@ywdband.com Yiewsley & West Drayton Training Band This is open to all ages wanting to learn to play a brass instrument or those of you wanting to 'brush up' your skills. Rehearse every Wed during term time 6.45-7.45pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. Contact Abi on 07985 302 856 or emailtraining@ywdband.com PETS... Iver Dog Training Club Meet Tuesday & Friday 6.30-9pm, St Andrews Church, Richings Park. Call Diana 01753 732907 Iver Heath Fields Dog Club 'Outdoor Training' every Sat at 10.15am, Wed at 11am call Mike on 01753 817852 or 07795 031335 or see website www.ihfdc.com continued overleaf...
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PRE-SCHOOL & KIDS GROUPS... French for Children with La Jolie Ronde, 5-11yrs. In Iver, Saturdays. Call Estelle 07831 779888 for more details. Rainbow Guides Iver Heath Scout Hut on Tuesday, 5.30-6.30pm. Call Cindy Gordon 01753 795724 or Tracey Glynn 01895 469804 Richings Park Pre-School St Leonard's Hall, St Leonard's Walk, Richings Park Iver, SL0 9DD. Monday to Friday 9.15am-12.15pm Extended days on Tue, Wed and Fri until 2.15pm. 15 hours funding available for 3-4 year olds per week. 2yr old funding. Call 07712 477848. Shooting Stars Pre-School An innovative pre-school setting for children aged two-five years open from 7.00am – 6.00pm Monday – Friday. Iver Village Hall, High St, Iver, SL0 9NW. Call Rafia 01753 651754 or e: childcare@ivercommunity.org Slough Sea Cadets Parade nights on Monday and Thursday 19.30-21.30 at Langley Pavillion, Langley Road, Slough, SL3 8BS. Male & Female Junior Cadets (age 10-12 yrs) and Cadets (age 1218 yrs). Fees £2 per week, courses from £5 for a weekend. Visit us on Facebook, pop-in or email: sloughseacadets@yahoo.co.uk Sticky Fingers Mothers & Toddlers Iver Heath Village Hall, Wed 9.3011.30am. Call Janet Beale 01753 652375 The Launchpad A breakfast club for children aged 511 and after school club for Infants. We also offer holiday play schemes. Iver Village Hall, High Street, Iver, SL0 9NW. Call Cheryl on 01753 651754 childcare@ivercommunity.org The Pod An after school club for Junior school children combining childcare with specialist educational activities. Iver 76
Village Junior School, High Street, Iver, SL0 9QA. Call Cheryl on 01753 651754 or email: childcare@ivercommunity.org Tiny Talk Baby Signing Classes Tuesday classes at St Mary’s Church Hall, High Street, Harefield UB9 6BX, 10am, price £5 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. Please call Bev Meier to book 01895 824935 or 0781 8025993 Tiny Toes Childcare An inspirational full day care nursery for children aged six weeks to five years open from 8.00am – 6.00pm Monday – Friday. Evreham Centre, Swallow Street, Iver, SL0 0HS. Call Susan on 01753 655650 tinytoes@ivercommunity.org SELF DEFENCE... Close Quarter Combat Based in Richings Park. Specialising in speed, strength and conditioning training. All types of pad work combinations. Suitable for Men and Women of all ages. 1-2-1 sessions. Call Mark 07525 366126 email: mj.wilding@hotmail.com Karate (Adults & Children) Iver Heath Village Hall on Tues & Thurs. Kids 7-8pm, Adults 8-9.30pm. Call Sensei R. Baker 07898 946330. Karate Club of Denham / Uxbridge For ages 5 years and up. Sunday 9.15-11am at New Denham Community Centre, Oxford Road. Wednesday 5-7pm at The Greenway, Uxbridge. Call Dominic on 07988 743725 Kung Fu Club West Drayton Great Kung Fu work out for everybody, attractive trainings for children & adults on: Tuesday 5.30-6.30, Friday 7.30-8.30, Sunday 5.30-6.30. West Drayton Community Centre,
Harmondsworth Road, UB7 9JL. Contact Ella: 07702 479 435 or email: sportsclubuk@gmail.com Martial Arts Bujinkan Kuri Dojo Unit 21 Bridgeworks, UB8 2JG Tel: 07878 471124. Training: Sun 10.30-12.30pm, Tue 8-10pm, Thu 8.30-10pm www.bujinkankuridojo.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... Alcoholics Anonymous Every Sunday, 7.30pm at St Leonards Hall, St Leonards Walk, Richings Park, Iver, SL0 9DD. Contact Howard on 07816 315688 "if alcohol is costing you more than money, you should meet us" Slimming World Tuesday 5.30pm and 7.30pm and Wednesday 9.30am at Evreham Sports Centre, Iver Heath Contact Kate: 07432 107089 SOCIAL GROUPS... Coffee Shop At St Margarets Church, Church Rd, Iver Heath. Wed 10.45-11.45am. Enjoy a coffee and a chat in a friendly, informal atmosphere. Heathway Ladies Group Every second Tues of the month at 2pm. You’re welcome as a visitor at the cost of £1.50, as we have a waiting list. Contact Secretary Tricia Cooper 01753 817749 or e: tricia.cooper3@virginmedia.com Iver & District Countryside Assoc., If you enjoy walks in the country and social evenings, why not join us? Call Paul Graham 01753 655183
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SOCIAL GROUPS CONTINUED... Iver Evening Women’s Institute Iver Village Hall, meets 2nd Monday of month, 7.30pm. Call Margaret 01753 653751 for details. Iver Heath Ladies Meet on the 1st Monday of the month (exc. BHs). At 2pm in the Community Room, Iver Heath Village Hall. Call Pat Roberts 01753 647674 or email: pat@roberts3011.orange home.co.uk Iver Heath Community Library The library is open on Tuesday 10am-1pm & 2pm-5pm Thursday 10am-1pm & 2pm-7pm Saturday 10am-1pm We hope that people from all three local areas will join with us to preserve this important local resource. Membership is free. Many of the facilities are free. For details contact us or, alternatively, come to one of our free monthly coffee and cake mornings and discuss with us in person. Tel: 0845 2303232 email: lib-ivh@buckscc.gov.uk King's Friends A group of older men and women enjoying life. Contact 01753 651178 for our latest programme. Probus Club of Langley & Iver is always looking for new members, we meet for lunch at the Richings Park Sports Club on the last Tuesday of the month (except Dec). We are friendly and attract retired persons of both sexes who usually are from a professional background although there is nothing rigid about background. We normally have a speaker and cover a very wide range of interests. Contact the Secretary on 01753 653571. The Rotary Club of Langley & Iver Meets on Thurs evenings 6.45 for 7pm, Richings Park Golf Club. North Park. Iver. SL0 9DL 01753 655370. We are a small friendly club that welcomes everyone, from all walks of life. If you are interested in improving
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the lives of others and have fun doing it, visit www.rotarylangleyandiver.org. uk or email: akahold@hotmail.com Women’s Social Group Social group for women in West London. Looking to expand your social group and make new friends? We meet regularly for coffee, a chat and organised trips and welcome women of all ages. Please call Seema on 07730 898635 or email seemaa@seemaa.co.uk for more. SPORT... Back School Small Osteopath lead rehab excercise sessions designed to help strengthen the back with lots of self care advice. Held at Lotus Wellbeing Clinic call 01753 677 604 for further details. Basketball (starting 7th June) Drop-in sessions for adults age 16 and over. Saturdays 12-2pm. £3 per session. At the Evreham Sports Centre, Iver. Call 01753 672610. Darts Richings Park Sports & Social Club Wellesley Avenue. Men & Women Players. Tuesday & Thursday Nights. Call Gerry 07957 804204 Iver Heath Tennis Club Church Road, Iver Heath, Bucks. SL0 0RW. New members always welcome, adults and juniors, visit our website for details www.ihltc.co.uk or call John Stephenson 01895 441033 Iver Heath Bowls Club Interested in playing bowls? Ring Brian Carter 01753 817794 or Hon. Sec. Betty Hemsley 01753 651775 Iver Short Mat Bowls We are open on Wednesdays 2-5pm & 5-10pm in Iver Village Hall, experience not necessary. Age 18yrs+. Cal Bob 01753 654049 or Ron 01753 819644 or Mary 01753 654765 Iver Veterans Golf Society For men and women over 60. We meet every Tuesday morning at Iver
Golf Club. Handicap not necessary. Regular competitions held at Iver and other courses. You do not need to be a member of Iver Golf Club, just come along and play and make some new friends. Special rates for IVGS members. Contact: 01753 654246 Nordic Walking Taster Session Iver Starts Wednesday 30th January, 10am-11am, £5 at Evreham Sports Centre, Swallow Street, Iver, Bucks, SL0 0HS. Session is £5 with poles included. If you would like to book onto the course or require more details call the Evreham Sports Centre on 01753 672 610. Pink Ladies Netball Club All levels and abilities welcome. Training takes place at Stockley Academy, West Drayton every Tuesday evening. Senior training 16+yrs 7.30-9pm Back to Netball 16+yrs 7.30- 8.30pm Under 16s - please Rhiannon on 01895 448878 for details email: plnetball@hotmail.co.uk visit www.pinkladiesnetball.co.uk Richings Park Ladies Badminton Club Meet at St. Andrews Church Hall, North Park, Iver. Every Monday 24pm except Bank Holidays. Intermediate standard of playing. Call Daphne Wood 01753 653404 for details. Richings Park Short Mat Bowls Richings Park Sports & Social Club Wellesley Avenue. Wed from 4pm. Just turn up - equipment provided. Run for life Richings park running and fitness club. Richings park sports club Mon and Thu 6-7pm. With Personal trainer Shaun - sessions includes running, circuits, boxing and various other exercises. Call 07906 087749. Running Club For Advanced, Intermediate and Beginner. Runs organised in the local area. Free of charge, chance to train with other runners at your level. Call 01753 677 604 for further details.
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