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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: 07931 368151 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
Finance: PPI is it still worth considering? 6 Interiors: How to create a romantic style 8 Health: Tackling Tinnitus 10 Coffee Break Puzzles 12 Kids Puzzle Page 14 Wildlife Zone 16 Breakthrough for Sciatica Sufferers 18 Property Matters 18 RSPCA 20 Puzzle Solutions 21 Zoe Hart 22 Golden years: memories of fifty years ago 24 Short Story: The Crafty Catch 26 Recipe: Rib Eye Steak with Red Wine Glaze 28 Local Events 30 Five Tips to Feed the Flame 34 Ruislip Central Horticultural Society 36 Beauty: Hot Hair Tips 38 Mobile Motoring Madness 40 Whats on at the Compass Theatre 42 Garden Feature 44 Used Cars: Prestige Executive Saloons 46 Reader Travel Offers 48 Karen Munro Careers 50 Tech: Something in the Air 52 Local Telephone Numbers 54 Magazine Pick Up Points 54 What’s On Clubs, Groups & Classes 56, 58 & 60 Wordsearch 57 Cake & Bake: Red Velvet Cake 62
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.
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
unable to work due to sickness or redundancy is all-consuming, and on the face of it, Payment Protection Insurance is a great concept. Why wouldn’t you want to protect large mortgage or loan repayments in this way? This still holds true today, but as with any financial product you need to carry out due diligence as to its suitability for your particular circumstances. Decide whether it is any better for you than Statutory Sick Pay, and if the exclusions/terms and conditions are too stringent.
Carry out your own due diligence
• Go over the small print in fine detail- particularly, eligibility for payouts and any exclusions. Check and double check anything ambiguous with a professional financial advisor that you trust, and don’t be pressured into buying it by anybody. • Make sure there are no existing insurance policies in existence, or workplace benefits that would come into force in the event of being unable to work. Some life insurance policies have clauses that include this, and it’s easy to forget they are there. • Don’t assume that the lender’s policy is the best one for you. It is in their
interests to get you to sign up for a policy, but not necessarily in yours. Carry out research on other providers who may offer a product more suited to your unique circumstances.
A PPI or similar policy can be full of exclusions - enough to make you wonder whether anyone actually receives any benefit. Common exclusions include self-employment, dismissal as opposed to redundancy, mental ill-health including stress, and being unable to work due to back pain. As far as PPI is concerned, strict selling regulations now make it unlikely that you will be mis-sold in the same way, but you still need to focus on your actual need for this product in the first instance. If you decide to go ahead, ask for a copy of the policy, read through it again and keep it safely filed away. Fees and charges for PPI can add a considerable amount to the loan, especially if you pay them upfront, as interest will be charged on the total. You should be offered the facility to pay monthly, which may be a cheaper alternative in the long-run, but make sure the lender cannot increase these premiums once the policy is underway.
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Home & Interiors How to create romantic style at home soft and tactile fabrics such as angora, mohair or cashmere, or perhaps warm and snuggly wool or felt. Choose floral patterns that look as if they’re worn or faded (definitely not digitally printed or modern in style) – you just can’t beat classics such as roses, hydrangeas, peonies and the like, especially when they’re hand-drawn or block-printed. Decorative details are important, too: embroidery, borders, ruffles and scalloped edgings will enhance even the plainest of fabrics, and since a little goes a long way there is no need to break the bank to achieve the desired effect.
trimmed with lace, embroidery or buttons, while in the kitchen an old-fashioned dresser is just the thing, piled with vintage patterned crockery.
Who wouldn’t fall in love with romantic style? Feminine, delicate and oh-so pretty, this is a timeless look that will work in all styles of home, from a bijoux city apartment to a grand country pile, says Katherine Sorrell Make your home a haven from everyday worries with a romantic decorating style that takes you worlds away from the busy bustle of modern life. It’s a look that is eternally charming and appealing, pretty as a picture, soft and dreamy and completely irresistible.
The first ingredient? Sumptuous fabrics, of course. Think lacey trims around the edges of pillowcases, napkins or cushions, or even entire panels (especially vintage or antique) hung across a window or thrown over a bed. Gorgeous. Sheers are also perfect for this look. Employ organza, chiffon, tulle, georgette and voile in opulent swathes and gathers, and layer them with crisp cottons and linens for interest and appeal. Since how things feel is just as important as how they look, add some deliciously
As for furniture, opt for simple, country-style or shabby chic furnishings in natural pine or else painted in pale and pretty colours. You may wish to go to town in the bedroom with a canopied or half-tester bed (if you’re on a budget, simply hang generous amounts of hemmed, sheer fabric from a hoop above the bed for a similar effect), combined with blissfully beautiful bed linen: perhaps crisp white cotton edged with drawn threadwork and topped with a vintage chintzy eiderdown or satin quilt. In the living room, opt for a plump and (of course) comfortable sofa, chaise longue or armchair in a traditional style, piled with cushions and bolsters
No romantic home would be complete without atmospheric lighting, which is best achieved by combining a variety of light sources – a central chandelier perhaps, together with a selection of wall and table lights, the latter small and graceful rather than large and imposing. Don’t forget that twinkly fairy lights and a selection of candles or tea lights (preferably scented) will really add atmosphere to your home. And speaking of finishing touches, choose surface finishes that are shiny and reflective, from mirror to pearl, polished metal to glazed ceramics. Accessorise with fine china teacups and cake stands, delicately etched glassware and bone-handled cutlery. One or two heart-shaped pieces add to the effect – as will a scattering of small ornaments, from birds and animals to female figures. Last, but definitely not least, add flowers everywhere possible, in vases and milk bottles, jam jars and other informal containers. Roses or ranunculas, alliums or asters – informal arrangements of old-fashioned blooms with a lovely scent will be sure to bring romance to any home. By Katherine Sorrell Main Image: These embellished cushions have a gentle and romantic feel. From £19.99, all Retreat Home, tel 01628471056; www.retreat-home.com
.
Health Tackling Tinnitus
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.
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
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
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
The Wildlife Zone...FP (Feb15)_Layout 1 121/01/2015 1 1 GNH_in&around_dps_Feb2015_Layout 14/01/201513:49 17:49Page Page
In and Around
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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.
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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. The Rhine in Flames Cochem 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 Koblenz back into our countryside. The Rhine Gorge reintroduced 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 into riverbanks. This fun-packed cruise visitsdeephistoric INCLUDED: Escorted throughout Rightly or wrongly, they were then exterminated from the countryside. Of riverside towns including Cochem, • Return rail travel London course this bad experience here in Britain does not makefrom the Musk Rat St a Rudesheim, Koblenz andper Boppard, Pancras (Ebbsfleet onanimal request) bad animal se, but itwhere does make it an inappropriate to to be allowed to exist in the British countryside. However, even this you will experience the wine festival and see Brussels and coach transfer to ‘inappropriateness’ is judged by humans and by our values, which usually the Rhine in Flames festival. Originally held Cologne or return to Cologne boils down to economic considerations. The judgment wasflights not necessarily on their place inthis the ecological grape harvest, to celebrate based the solely - supp’tsystem. may apply • 7 nights fullSince I have returned from the USA my affection for the magical Beaver spectacular pyrotechnics show features an board cruise on the mps has increased. I for one welcome its return to the British countryside as it illuminated flotilla of riverboats and curtains sharing twin outside increases our biodiversity, recreatesAmsterdam another part of ouraheritage and us to be the presence of a cabin truly wonderful However, of fire, bathingallows the scene in in a magical glow. (TCB) onanimal. Main Deck - the Musk Rat will never be able to return and hold a position as a British feral We have chartered the lovely existence mps here, upgrades available • Welcome animal due to its previous however temporary it was. drink
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Property
The overnight reform of the stamp duty system in early December took everyone by surprise but, now that the dust has settled, we can start to as sess what the potential impact of the changes will be on the housing market. The old system massively distorted the market, particularly around the thresholds, because stamp duty was levied on the entire purchase price of the property. Consequently, it was pointless valuing a property at £128k or £260k; the sale price would simply be negotiated down to the nearest thresh old. Also, because a mortgage can’t cover the cost of stamp duty, it unfairly penalised first time buyers, particularly in expensive areas like London. Under the new system, the stamp duty on a £128k purchase price will be a mere £60, a saving of £1220, and on a £260k purchase it will be £3000, a saving of £4800. Therefore, I think there will be fairly strong price increases for houses in the £125 175k bracket and in the £250300k bracket. At the other end of the scale, there will probably be hefty
falls in the more desirable areas of London and the Home Counties. More significantly (and perhaps more importantly) the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors is pre dicting an increase in the number of house sales of between 2 and 5% across the country in 2015, although they expect that figure to be closer to 1% in London. This is good news, sales volumes have been dwindling worryingly since the new rules on mortgage lending were introduced last year. Better still, the bulk of that increase is expected to be delivered by first time buyers, a breed that has been absent from the market for too long. House prices have been moderating for a few months now and in London some pundits estimate that the average house price has fallen by £30k. London house price inflation has been worrying Mark Carney whereas elsewhere the market has been disappointingly flat. Positive predictions across the board then.
local area. The adoption centre will mean more beds for homeless animals, and as it will be open to the public, they will be able to find there Our sponsored dog walk promises to be a super forever homes more quickly, rather than relying day out for you and your furry friend! All dogs on their photo on our website. But what if you will receive a goody bag, refreshments enroute, don’t own a dog? Well, you’re still welcome to a free Woofs & Walkies neckerchief and the join us! chance to make friends with lots of other dogs. It costs just £10 to sign up (a bit more if you’re Go hand in paw with your pooch to raise money bringing multiple dogs), and we ask all walkers for less fortunate dogs and other animals who to try and raise at least £100 sponsorship if you are abandoned, abused and neglected in Mid can. dlesex and South Hertfordshire every year, by joining our sponsored dog walk. So, why not have a great day out with lots of waggy friends, and make a difference to local The walk starts at 10.30am at Ruislip Lido, on animals in need too? Get your wellies, poop . The route is a double cir bags and lead at the ready. Go Woofs & cuit around Ruislip Lido, which makes for a Walkies! 3mile / 5km walk which should take about an hour to complete. If two laps around the Lido is To find out more, and to register, please visit too far for you, you are welcome to stop after www.rspcamiddlesex.org.uk/woofswalkies, pop one circuit. into one of our charity shops in Watford, East cote, Ruislip Manor, Kenton, Preston Road, This year, you and your dog together can make Rickmansworth or Pinner, or call Aileen a real difference for animals in need by helping Scheers on 0208 429 5604 to build a new RSPCA Adoption Centre in the
Zoe Hart FP (Feb15)_Layout 1 29/01/2015 05:05 Page 1
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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.
AGE
0+
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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-
Also in 1965
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. 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.
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!
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
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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with Red Wine Glaze Ready in 20 minutes
Rib Eye Steaks Serves 2
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.
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.
To make a booking or place an order Sunday Buffet Now Available All Day until 10pm only £7.95 per for home delivery call 01895 239503 person and £4.50 for children under 12
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Dated Events (Feb15)_Layout 1 29/01/2015 01:34 Page 1
FEBRUARY EVENTS Friends of Ickenham Hall & Compass Theatre present ‘Quiz and Chips’ Sun 8th February, 7.30pm Compass Theatre, Glebe Avenue, Ickenham, UB10 8PD A friendly quiz night with a Fish/Chicken/Sausage/Veggie Chip Supper included in the price. £12pp (booking fee applies per transaction of between £1.25 & £1.75). Contact Compass Theatre to book a place 01895 673200 or www.compasstheatre.co.uk.
jewellery, accessories, lingerie, hairdressing, aloe vera, lavender, cupcakes hand made soaps. Tickets cost £15 including a Bucks Fizz and a goody bag. Tea and coffee also available. For more details or to book visit www.michaelsobelhospice.co.uk or call 01923 844730. Visit www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk.
Local Events February into March 2015
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
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
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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HELLEBORE IT is this time of year when all the festivities are over, the days are dark damp and cold, and it’s back to work or school and it seems that the garden is the last place to cheer you up. Winter discontent is a strong emotion that beats in the gardener’s breast, more powerful even than Midsummer panic (Help, it’s all getting out of hand!) Well that could all change with a little help from the good old Hellebore. (Helleborus) The Hellebore comprises of approximately 20 different species, they are perennials or evergreen flowering plants from the Ranunculaceae family. The more common name for these plants are Christmas Rose, Lenten Rose or even Winter Rose, however they are not even closely linked to the rose family. I have a selection in my gravel garden, the gravel really sets them off well, and also is a great medium for the seeds to self-set. I class the Hellebore as the plant that kicks off the year, as it is always just around New Year that I notice the new growth poking through the gravel, and within a few weeks these flowering stems are a foot high. The flowers are the first growth to show, appearing on the fresh new shoots, if you have not done so already, it is time to cut last year’s growth right down to the base on the perennial varieties, (Orientalis type) leaving the new growth room, light and space to push its way through. These plants are fantastic in the way that they bounce back from any sudden shock of a cold night, frost and even snow. Helleborus have a special way to protect against frost. They extract moisture from the flowers as the cold sets in so they do not freeze. That moisture will be stored in the roots. After the freeze the moisture returns to the flowers. My pride and joy Hellebore is a double chocolate variety called Helleborus Niger, its jet black double flowers with bright white centres really look great against the dark green stems and the combination of the gravel too. The one disappointing thing about hellebores is that they are very shy. Nature had a bad day I feel, as the natural flowering position for the flower heads is facing downwards! You either have to be less than one foot tall, get down on your hands and knees or carry a mirror on a long stick, and yes I have seen this done! These plants come in a wide variety of colours, ranging from deep dark colours to bright yellows
and even mixed two toned flowers such as white with a blush of pink or red. One of the nicest I’ve seen recently (however have not got my hands on yet!) is a fantastic double flowering yellow with speckles of red on each petal. Amazing. So to soften those feelings of winter discontent, go shopping. A new plant for the garden performs the same trick as a new pair of shoes, or a new tie, so visit a good garden centre or even pay a visit to one of the Royal Horticultural Society London shows in Vincent Square near Victoria. RHS London shows are held in the RHS Lindley Hall, SW1P 2QW and RHS Lawrence Hall SW1P 2QD The next one is Friday and Saturday February 20th & 21st from 10am-5pm.
RCHS MAILBAG We have had quite a few questions from readers this month. All of which will be answered, however I would like to feature two here. Q I picked up some bulbs on offer recently. Is it too late to plant these and should I keep them for next year instead? Margaret, Ickenham. A The worse thing possible for a bulb is to allow it to dry out and shrivel up. This will deem it useless and you may as well throw it away. So any bulb should be planted. You may be rewarded this year, however even if you miss a year of flower, there is always 2016 to look forward to! Q I hear that one should mulch the borders. When should this be done and using what? Paul, Eastcote. A Spring is coming, and it’s time to start thinking about mulching your flower beds for the Summer. Natural mulch is extremely beneficial for a garden. It traps moisture in the soil, so you don’t have to water as often, and it acts as an insulator, so your plants’ roots don’t get too hot. (It has the same effect in the Winter, keeping plants from getting too cold.) And it suppresses weeds, so you don’t have to weed as often. So all in all it is a great thing to do. I mulch my garden every two years using a mixture of sterilised mushroom compost and mature horse manure. Please email the RCHS on rchstalks@gmail.com with any questions you have, and visit the website too www.ruisliphorticultural.org.uk Next month RCHS committee member Margaret Macintosh will be featuring Daffodils. Until then.
Warren
Please come and see us at the RCHS A.G.M SOCIAL on Tuesday 17th February, 7.30pm St. Lawrence Church Hall, Bridle Road, Pinner. It is free to attend and there will be refreshments.
Beauty Hot Hair Tips
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
by Helen Taylor
enjoy trying out any and every style you fancy.
Disguising a high forehead is easy, all you need is a fringe. Choose whatever kind you like; layered, heavy or wispy.
For Your Body sShape
“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.
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”
“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.
Mobile Motoring Madness
By James Baggott, editor of Car Dealer Magazine (CarDealerMag.co.uk)
Next time you’re sitting in a traffic jam, or waiting at the lights, or on a motorway even, take a little look around you and – especially if it’s during a dark commute home – I’m willing to wager you’ll be surrounded by countless illuminated, bowed heads of motorists checking their phones. You can spot them easily, like rule-breaking beacons. With music streaming services like Spotify working through car audio systems, social media streams constantly pinging away with notifications, not to mention text messages and emails, the temptation to not touch the phone is too hard for most to resist. Can you honestly say that you’ve never touched your phone while driving? I can’t. British Car Auctions recently quizzed 445 motorists and 95 per cent of them said they’d seen another driver using a mobile phone. Some 82 per cent of them had seen someone texting or emailing too and 42 per cent admitted to doing it themselves. The official advice is to turn it off, but the problem with that is phones have become intrinsically linked to our cars. Most modern models
offer Bluetooth connectivity that lets you take calls at the wheel, stream music from your handset, while some even let you access the web from the car using your phone’s signal. While I can’t deny all these features are handy, could it be the case that car manufacturers are sending out the wrong message? Are they condoning the use of a mobile phone behind the wheel by implementing all this technology? A report from Canada found drivers talking on handsfree devices were ‘far more likely to make errors on the road’. And, come on, admit it, when you’re having a conversation on handsfree are you REALLY paying attention properly? I contacted the Association of Chief Police Officers to ask them what would happen to a driver who had an accident while talking, perfectly legally, on a handsfree kit. A spokesman said the likelihood was that the driver would be prosecuted for driving without due care and attention or, in more extreme cases, for dangerous driving. And it’s already happened. One case in 2008 involved lorry driver Mervyn Richmond, 49,
who had been talking to his mother for 23 minutes using Bluetooth in his cab when he ran into back of a Transit van, killing its passenger. He was jailed for four-and-a-half years for dangerous driving. Roger Vincent, of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, told The Daily Mail at the time: ‘When you are using any mobile while driving you are four times more likely to have an accident.’ FOUR times. So here’s my idea. I think it’s time for a manufacturer to introduce a device that stops your phone working when the engine is on. A sort of enforced airplane mode that means no calls, texts, emails or data can be received, but music can still be played if it’s plugged in. It would take a brave manufacturer to make the move, but marketed correctly it could be a winner. With mobile phone use behind the wheel increasing, despite the threats of points and fines, now has to be the time to take drastic measures. But is there a car maker brave enough to make the move first? Who knows… What do you think? Tweet me @CarDealerEd and let me know.
Compass Theatre DPS (Feb15)_Layout 1 19/01/2015 14:53 Page 1
Disney’s
What’s on at
Compass Theatre February/March 2015
Spotlight Musical Theatre presents
Thoroughly Modern Millie
at Compass Theatre Wed 4 - Sat 7 February Spotlight Musical Theatre Company return with this fun-filled, high energy show full of toetapping dance routines, memorable music and fabulous flappers. Friends of Ickenham Hall presents
Quiz ‘n’ Chips Sun 8 February at Compass Theatre Join us for another fun, general knowledge quiz supper in aid of the restoration of Ickenham Hall and Compass Theatre’s building and fittings. There will be 10 tables, each seating up to eight people with one team per table. Tickets include a tasty Chip Supper! London Borough of Hillingdon presents
Hillingdon's Hidden Talent 2015
at Compass Theatre Sun 15 February Hillingdon’s Hidden Talent is a popular showcase for local talent of all kinds – so whether you are a singer, a street dance superstar or have a secret gift for sketch comedy, then we want to hear from you!
Mulan(U) at Compass Theatre Tues 17 February A young woman secretly takes her father’s place in the army in order to save his life and her adventures lead to her to become one of China’s greatest heroes.
Chinese New Year Workshops
at Compass Theatre Wed 18 February The Chinese New Year inspires the February 2015 Half Term holiday activity at Compass Theatre. Our Craft and Performing Workshops are created especially for 5 to 11 year olds and run at 10am and again at 1pm. Advance booking is essential.
Ha! H
London Borough of Hillingdon presents
Band Night
at Compass Theatre Fri 20 February A night of live music from local bands.
Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H
Murder Most Fun and Friends of Ickenham Hall presents
Death In Disguise
at Compass Theatre Sat 21 February Murder Most Fun presents another Murder Mystery night. The event will be set up around tables, each seating 8 people, with one team per table. Tickets include a tasty chip supper choose yours when you book.
Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H
Ha! Ha Ha! Ha Ha! Ha Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!
W O
C 0
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Compass Theatre DPS (Feb15)_Layout 1 19/01/2015 14:53 Page 2
The Drowsy Chaperone
at Compass Theatre Wed 4 - Sat 7 March A hugely comical musical the stage comes alive each night and pays homage to the silly, predictable gems of musical theatre. Ariel Dorfman’s
Death and the Maiden
! Ha! ! Ha! ! Ha! ! Ha! ! Ha! ! Ha! ! Ha! ! Ha! ! Ha! ! Ha! ! Ha! ! Ha! ! Ha! a! Ha! a! Ha! a! Ha!
at Compass Theatre Wed 11 - Sat 14 March A riveting intellectual and emotional tug-of-war that explores the after-effects of repression on hearts and souls in a white-knuckle thriller from Proscenium
Theatre Company. Bizet’s
Carmen
at Compass Theatre Wed 18 - Sat 21 March There was never a dull moment when that girl was around. Set in 1930s Spain, against a background of the chaos and confusion of civil war, Harrow Opera presents a brand new, fully staged production of Carmen, sung in English.
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Hillingdon Musical Scoiety presents
Crazy For You
at Winston Churchill Theatre Sun 23 February, 3pm Following on from their NODA nominated production of Oliver! Hillingdon Musical Society transport you to 1920’s New York via dusty Nevada, to see such classics as Someone to Watch Over Me, They Can’t Take That Away From Me and I Got Rhythm with a cast of over 40 with big dance numbers and great singing. Arthur Miller’s
The Crucible
at Compass Theatre Thu 26 - Fri 27 March Who weeps for these weeps for corruption. Set in Massachusetts in 1692, this play recounts the events surrounding the Salem Witch Trials. Arthur Miller’s comment on his experiences of 1950’s McCarthyism won the play a Tony Award and is still regarded as a modern classic.
Theatre details... COMPASS THEATRE Glebe Avenue, Ickenham, UB10 8PD. WINSTON CHURCHILL THEATRE AND HALL Pinn Way, Ruislip, HA4 7QL. HILLINGDON BOX OFFICE: 01895 673200
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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 rather than waiting until the spring before you venture out into the garden again, take the opportunity to use a few spare hours to give it a miniature make-over to reignite your enthusiasm. Wherever you live, it is likely that your garden will have suffered general winter wear and tear and so will be in great need of a general tidy-up. Start by clearing up any remaining fallen leaves, broken twigs and perhaps even soggy rockets or other fireworks which landed in your garden back at the beginning of November! Where possible, make sure that you compost anything you collect up. 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, the
top growth of herbaceous perennials and so forth, can be added to the compost heap. If you don’t already have a compost heap, now’s the time to treat yourself to a double berth bin system.
When it comes to tackling herbaceous or flower borders, don’t get too carried away and make things look too clean and tidy, as by doing this you may well cut down on the amount of protection that faded top-growth can provide. I tend to leave most of the remains of herbaceous plants in place until spring, simply because of the little bit of warmth they do provide, but the most ugly, straggly or unkempt bits could certainly be cleared up now. While you are doing this make sure that you collect up any pests that you find. Keep a particular look out for slugs and snails and catch them while they are 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 will make it look infinitely better if you clear twigs and
leaves from it and cut back any weeds which have grown even faster than the grass itself. Collect up any pots or other containers which have been left around the garden and now only contain faded remains of plants. Where possible you can use these to create spots of colour and interest in the garden by clearing them out, using fresh compost and then replanting with anything that will bring a little bit of life and colour to the garden at this time of year. If you choose temporary winter plantings such as winter flowering pansies, pompom winter daisies and so forth, then these can simply be removed when it is time to replant with summer bedding. Or how about a pot or two of early flowering bulbs such as miniature iris or snowdrops? 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. If like me you have some
fruit, check fruit trees for signs of any dead shrivelled fruit still remaining 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.
If beds and borders are in need of some winter interest then a trip to your favourite local garden centre is bound to give you plenty of ideas for what’s looking good – you can be sure that any garden centre will have the currently best looking plants in a prominent position at this time of year. Some of my favourites include the small trees or shrubs which not only look good, but also 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. Don’t forget that 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.
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 and then - provided freezing weather is not forecast - wash it over with a few buckets of water. By the time you have decorated it with a few attractively planted containers of winter flowers, it will be almost unrecognisable.
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
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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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
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
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.
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”
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
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
RUISLIP What's On... (Feb15)_Layout 1 29/01/2015 03:04 Page 1
REGULAR & LOCAL EVENTS...
Quiz Night Every Tues & Sunday from 8.30pm at the Coach & Horses, Ickenham
Oaken Leaves English Folk Dance Club Meet every Thursday 8.15-10pm at Methodist Church Hall, Ickenham Rd, Ruislip. Call Joan 01895 638008. Events at Eastcote Royal British Legion club, Southbourne Gardens Zumba Tue & Wed 7-8pm £5. Contact Hayley 07835 120642 or email: hayleyzumba@gmail.com Karate for all levels, beginners welcome contact Frank on 078335 33569 Sats 10am and Mons 6.30pm Weekly Quiz Night ! Every Thurs. COMEDY... Comedy Bunker Ruislip Golf Centre Ickenham Road Ruislip HA4 7DQ for more details of visit: www.comedybunker.co.uk Comedy Nights The Empire Comedy Club at The White Bear, Ickenham Road HA4 7DF every Thurs night. Pete 01895 675293 HOBBIES... Brushstrokes Art Classes with Sue Friendly weekly classes with tuition. Beginners welcome. Hayes, Ickenham & Ruislip. Ring Sue 01895 639294 or 07949 805246 Chiltern Aviation Society Meets every 4th Wednesday, Ruislip Methodist Church, Ickenham Road. Call Keith Hayward 01895 637872 Harrow & Hillingdon Geological Society Meet for lectures at 7.30 for 8pm on the second Wed of each month at Cavendish Pavilion, Field End Road, Eastcote, HA4 9PG. All welcome, visitors £3. Refreshments available. For details contact: Jean Sippy, Secretary Tel: 020 8422 1859 www.hhgs.org.uk Hillingdon Arts & Crafts Club Meet every 2nd Friday in The Parlour at the URC Church in Swakeleys Road from 9.45-11.30am. £3pp. Call Sue Williams 07799 054444. Hillingdon Decorative & Fine Arts Enjoy ten expert lectures a year about art and culture from around Britain and further afield. Join outings to
galleries and places of cultural interest. Attend special interest study days. Come along to a lecture, cost £6.00. See www.hillingdondfas.co.uk. Tel:01895 635007 or 07526 179 529 E: technical@hillingdondfas.co.uk
Hillingdon Family History Society At Hillingdon Park Baptist Church, Hercies Road, Hillingdon. Research room open (10am – 1pm) every Fri (except the Fri before the first Sat of the month). On the first Sat of the month open 10am – 1pm at Uxbridge Library. Experienced help available. See www.hfhs.co.uk . Contact Mrs P. Reynolds 01895 444442 or email hillingdonfhs@onetel.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 Ruislip, Northwood & Eastcote Local History Society The Society meets on the third Monday of the month from September to April at St Martin's Church Hall, Ruislip High Street, at 8.15pm. See RNELHS website for details. Susan Toms, 01895 637134 or e: toms.susan@gmail.com Ruislip & District Natural History Society Meet last Monday of the month from Sept to April (except Dec) in Guide Hut near Ruislip Library. Contact: John Matthews 01895 636215. Ruislip Central Horticultural Society Talks and advice for local gardeners , new members welcome. for more info call Warren Reeves on01923 451616 or email rchstalks@gmail.com Ruislip & Northwood Flower Arrangement Society Meet every 1st Tues of the month at the Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue, Oaklands Gate, Northwood HA6 3AA
The Language Clubs of Hillingdon From late Sept until mid-July. Speak some German, Spanish, French or Italian? Want to practise speaking and listening in friendly groups, with recent learners, improvers & native speakers? Join a Language Club! Each Club meets on a different Thursday of the month at 7.45pm in St Giles' Church Hall, Swakeleys Road, Ickenham UB10
8BG. For details: German Club 01895 254 723; Italian Club 020 8863 3468; Spanish Club and French Club 01895 253 472. Uxbridge & Ickenham Floral Art Meets in the village hall, Swakeleys Road. Call 01895 850943 for details. KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA... Aikido Classes Yeading Community Centre, UB4 9BH. Seniors: Mon & Fri 8-10pm. Juniors (6yrs+) Fri 6.30-8pm. Learn a non competitive martial art. Friendly British Aikido Board registered club, under Sensei Sheppard 6th dan. Full information on www.kuraiaikido.co.uk. Contact Keith Holland 01895 636344 or email kuraiaikido@hotmail.com Argosy Players Theatre Group Meets at Ruislip Conservative Club, Ickenham Road, West Ruislip. Every Thurs, 8pm. Call 07972 394702. Classical Pilates Mat classes for beginners through to advanced levels, based in Ruislip. Contact Tonja Osborn 07766 011036 or email TonjaOsborn@gmail.com Dance, Gymnastics and Free Running Classes By Futunity Uk in Uxbridge Town Centre & Hillingdon Sports & Leisure centre. Ages 2-adults catered for and all styles of dance from RAD ballet,to Zumba. Check out our website for full class listings www.futunityuk.com. Contact 01895 251224 or admin@futunityuk.com Eastcote Exercise Classes Metabolic workout class, 45 minute stretch class. Mon, Tues & Sat mornings. Contact Virginia King 01895 232551 or email virginiaking@vking2468.freeserve.co.uk Empowering Yoga Fusion of Hatha & Vinyasa Yoga Wed 9.30-10.45am at Windmill Studio Centre, Ruislip Manor. Thur 9.30-11am at St Thomas More Church, Eastcote + classes in Harrow. Free Trial Class contact Joanne 0845 4561336 e:info@empoweringyoga.co.uk
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RUISLIP What's On... (Feb15)_Layout 1 29/01/2015 03:04 Page 2
KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA CONTINUED...
Fusion Pilates+ Classes Mon 10-11am, St Lawrence Church, 2 Bridle Road, Eastcote, HA5 2SJ and Wed 8:30-9:30pm, Cannon Lane Methodist Church, Pinner, HA5 1JD. Classes run throughout the year. For details contact Lenka 07929 472 194 or email rybickova.lenka@gmail.com
Fitness League Tone & Stretch exercises for women of all fitness levels. Tues 7.30-8.30pm at Vyners School, Warren Road, Ickenham UB10 8AB. Call Rosemary 01628 776838. www.thefitnessleague.com Fitsteps An exercise class with a difference inspired by dances from Strictly Come Dancing. Every Monday 7-8pm. The Conservative Club, 56-58 Ickenham Road, Ruislip HA4 7DG. For more info Call Becca: 07860 353919 Glow Fitness, Food, Friends Classses: Ruislip 6-7.15pm at Field End Junior School, HA4 9PQ . Pinner 6.458pm at Cannon Lane Methodist Church HA5 1JD. Northwood 6-7.15pm at Hillside Junior School, Northwood Way HA6 1RX. Call Sam 01895 460766 or email: sam.simon@glow-fit.co.uk Images School of Dance Fun and friendly dance & drama classes for all ages including RAD Ballet & Contemporary dance. Based in Ruislip Manor. www.imagesschoolofdance.co.uk e: info@imagesschoolofdance.co.uk Irish Dancing Classes For boys and girls from age 5 upwards. Beginners and advanced classes available. Monday, 6pm at Hayes Conservative Club, Church Rd. Wednesday, 6pm at Greenford Visitation Catholic church hall. e: Deirdreosullivan@hotmail.co.uk t: 07956 346383 JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency An explosive and exciting Performing Arts School. Classes available from 2.5 years to adults, male and female at The Windmill Studio Centre. T: 01895 624755 www.thewindmillstudio.com E: thewindmillstudio@gmail.com Jazzercise Dance fitness classes 9.30am and
10.30am every Wed at Ruislip Manor Sports & Social Club, Grosvenor Vale. Call Kelly on 07833 941497
Modern Jive Classes Mon 8-11pm at West Drayton Community Centre. Tues & Thurs 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
Passion Dance Group Based at Queensmead Sports Centre & Highgrove Pool. Classes include: Street Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Minie Me’z (3-6 years Ballet, Tap & Street), Kids Parties. We offer Shows, Workshops, Competitions and Assessments, Age 3+ all abilities welcome. Call 07882 413428 Pilates Certified Body Control Pilates Teacher (Registered Exercise Professional Level 3). Beginners matwork classes on Mondays & Thursdays at 1.30pm 2.30pm at the Stables, Manor Farm Ruislip and Monday 9am-10am at the Northwood Methodist Church. Local Beginners / Improvers evening classes starting January 2015. 07771 918240 Ruislip Dramatic Society Meets at South Ruislip Methodist Church. Mon 8pm & Thurs 8.15pm. Call 07854 284508. Salsa Classes Every Monday: The Middlesex Arms, Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HG. Beginners class starts 8pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.45-9.30pm Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm. Every Wednesday: The WatersEdge, Canal Cottages, Packetboat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. Beginners class starts 7:30pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.309.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm The Pilates Club St Giles & The United Reformed Church Halls, Ickenham. Call 07968 920070 www.thepilatesclub.co.uk Wild Forest Gym Outdoor fitness and natural movement training in 50 acres of forest at Grim's Dyke Hotel, Old Redding, Harrow Weald. Also Natural Running &
obstacle race training. All abilities. Mon - Fri. Contact Coach Michael 0845 4561336 info@wildforestgym.com or www.wildforestgym.com Yoga South Ruislip Community Association pregnancy yoga classes 9.45-11.15am at Deane Park Hall, Long Drive, South Ruislip. Call Katja on 07951 763851 Yoga with Yolanda At Ickenham Village Hall every Monday from 6.45pm-8.15pm. Mixed group. For details call 07919 243648 MARKETS... Duck Pond Artisan Food & Craft Market and Farmers’ Market Artisan Market - on the 3rd Sunday of each month from 10am-3pm, Farmers’ Market - first Sunday of each month from 10am-2pm. Both at the Great Barn, Ruislip. Free parking. See www.duckpondmarket.co.uk Mad Cat Crafts Hand painted and decorated objects. Wed to Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-4pm at the Great Barn, Ruislip HA4 7SU. www.madcatcrafts.co.uk Northwood Craft Market First Saturday of each month 10am-2pm, Methodist Church Hall, Oaklands Gate, Northwood. www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.uk Ruislip Country Market Every Fri 10-11.30am - car park at St Martins Approach, Ruislip. Fruit, veg, eggs, honey, hand made cards and jewellery, cakes, pies and more... MUSIC... Accord, Ruislip Community Choir Meet every Thursday evening in term time at 7.30pm at Ruislip Baptist Church, Manor Way, Ruislip. We have over 65 choir members, but will especially welcome new male choir members. No auditions! A great fun choir, if you try us you will want to stay! Call Chris on 07714 226216. Capital Connection Ladies Harmony Singing Every Wed evening at South Ruislip Community Centre, Deane Park, Long Drive, HA4 OHS. Call Jean on 01895 474877 www.capitalconnection.org.uk continued overleaf...
RUISLIP What's On... (Feb15)_Layout 1 29/01/2015 03:04 Page 3
MUSIC CONTINUED... Eastcote Choral Society Rehearses every Tuesday from 8-10pm at Ruislip Methodist Church, Ickenham Road. New singers welcome. Call 01895 904556. Ruislip Operatic Society This local theatre group meets every Monday & Thursday at St Martin's Church Hall, 7.30pm. To get involved email: info@ruislipos.org Showcase Musical Theatre Come and sing with us, no audition necessary. We meet every Friday evening at 7.45 pm at Hesdin Hall, The Most Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 73 Pembroke Road, Ruislip, Middx, HA4 8NN http://showcasemusical theatre.org.uk The Harrow Apollo Male Choir Rehearse every Tues 7.30pm-10pm in the Belmont Room at the Harrow Arts Centre Hatch End. New members welcome. Tel: 020 8959 1244 or www.harrow-apollo-male.choir.org Top Jazz at The Fairway Ruislip Golf Centre, Ickenham Rd, West Ruislip. Normally 3rd Monday of the month. For details: 01895 632394 or www.jazzwestlondon.com PRE-SCHOOL & KIDS GROUPS... Sing & Sign Britain’s favourite Baby Signing Classes from 6 months Wed at Uxbridge Leisure Centre, Fri at The White Bear, Ruislip. FREE TASTERS BOOK NOW contact Cathy 07712 047621 or email: cathyseddigh@singandsign.co.uk SELF DEFENCE... 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 e: kuntao.matjan.uk@gmail.com. SELF HELP & SUPPORT... EAR4U Help, support and advice. Meets every Monday at the Orange Couch Café
(formerly the D spot), Ruislip Manor from 10am-2pm. Call Ann on 07890 315156 or 01895 672706 SOCIAL GROUPS... Crosier Investment Club Learn about the Stock Market and improve personal investment skills. Meets 7.30pm, 3rd Thurs in month at Pinner Village Hall, Chapel Lane, Pinner HA5 1AA. 0208427 3559 e:secretary@crosierinvestment.org.uk w: www.crosierinvestment.org.uk Friends of Shenley Park Improving the wellbeing and maintenance of flower beds, shrubs and the new flower garden and seating area created last year, the group won a people’s choice grant. We are actively seeking volunteers to help with regular action days in the park. Anyone interested please contact Geoff 07931 561020 or Louise 07966 220995 Friendly Rubber Bridge Tuesdays & Fridays, 12noon-4pm at Pinner Bridge Club, 103 Marsh Road, Pinner. For info call Keith 01895 622033 Ruislip Afternoon Group for Women Meets 1st Thursday of every month. Talks, Lunches & outings. Methodist Church Hall, Ickenham Road 2-4pm. Call Mrs R Hall pm 01895 633782 Ruislip Common WI All ladies welcome. We meet on the 2nd Wednesday of the month, 2pm in Room 1, Methodist Church, Ickenham Road, Ruislip, HA4 7BZ. Visit: ruislipcommonwi.weebly.com Ruislip Social Club Tropic at Ruislip at Ruislip Social Club Grosvenor Vale Ruislip HA4 6JQ for Fridays and occasional other nights, live bands & tribute bands for more details visit www.tropicatruislip.co.uk contact and ticketline 0208 707 2256 Ruislip WI Fancy something different but not too taxing, yet fun? We meet every 1st Thursday of the month at Upper Room, GAA Sports & Social Club, West End Road, South Ruislip from 7.20pm10pm. Kim Murphy 07989 558925 email ruislipeveningwi@gmail.com Women’s Social Group Social group for women in West London. 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 SPORT... Back to Netball Thurs 7-8pm at Queensmead Sports Centre £3 per session for more info email sportsdev@hillingdon.gov.uk Badminton Club At St Pauls Church Hall, Tiverton Road, Ruislip Manor. Every Wednesday at 8pm and 10pm. Call Tony or Ann 01895 472578 Badminton Club Requires additional players of average standard! Every Tuesday evening 7.45 to 9.45 at Vyners School, Ickenham. Interested? Then email John on turksclub@hotmail.co.uk Badminton The Badminton Hall, Kings College Road, Ruislip HA4 7JZ. Tuesday from 10am. Call John 01895 630199 Bessingby Park Bowls Club Every Tues & Thurs, 2-4pm. Call Jack on 0208 845 1469. Bikewise Bike rides setting off from 61 Swakeleys Road. 2nd and 4th Sun of every month to various destinations. Email@bikewisegb.com or call 01895 675376. Bowls Deane Park Bowls Club, Bessingby Park, Ruislip. Call Mrs Lathwell on 01895 639489 Dads Army Golf Society Tuesdays & Thursdays at Ruislip Golf Club Come & Join Us!! for more info call Sid on 01895 631489 Ladies Badminton Club Thursday afternoons between 2pm and 4pm at Eastcote Hockey and Badminton Club, Kings College Road, Ruislip, HA4 7JZ. Call Diane on 01895 634352 Swakeleys Tennis Club Adult Social Tennis Club in Ickenham. Would suit people returning to tennis after a break, Four days a week all year. Contact Pam 01895 677149 or Ed 01895 635568 www.swakeleystennis.co.uk
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Bowen Therapy Restoring Balance to the Body Bowen Therapy is a gentle, natural and non-invasive hands-on remedial therapy. It has a remarkable record of success with clients affected from a wide range of problems – often when nothing else has helped. It is suitable for all age-groups, including new-born babies and the very elderly. It helps the body’s systems rebalance and promotes healing.
Bowen consists of gentle rolling movements over muscles, tendons, ligaments and soft tissue at precise points on the body using fingers and thumbs. No hard-tissue manipulation or force is needed or used. The process releases energy, sending impulses to the brain to trigger the body’s own healing systems.
Conditions known to respond to Bowen Bowen helps by releasing stress at a very deep level, via its calming effect on the Autonomic Nervous System, setting the scene for the body to heal itself. In contrast to many other hands-on therapies, Bowen does not attempt to force the body to change; rather it asks the body to recognise and make the changes necessary to bring it back to homeostasis (physiological equilibrium). Shortterm (acute) injury is usually resolved in 1–3 treatments, while long-standing (chronic) conditions may require longer. My name is Davina Butler and my clinics are in Ruislip and Gerrards Cross, if you would like further information on Bowen please contact me on 07796 927768, therapies@davinabutler.com or my website www.davinabutler.com. I am a member of the Bowen Therapy Professional Association (BTPA) where you will find studies and testimonials at www.bowen-therapy.co and the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) www.cnhc.org.uk
Cake & Bake
Red Velvet Cake Serves 8 Ready in 1 hour 30 minutes plus cooling and chilling
This luscious cake is an American classic and has a vibrant red coloured chocolate sponge filled with a tangy soft cheese frosting and dark chocolate icing. THE CAKE • 300g plain flour • 2 tsp bicarbonate of soda • 4 tbsp cocoa powder • 235g butter, softened, plus extra for greasing • 300g caster sugar • 3 medium eggs, beaten • 200ml buttermilk • 1� tsp vanilla extract • 2 tbsp liquid red food colouring THE CHOCOLATE ICING • 140g plain chocolate, broken into pieces • 75g butter, diced • 75ml double cream THE FROSTING • 55g unsalted butter, softened • � tsp vanilla extract • 115g icing sugar, sifted • 115 g full-fat soft cheese • 1 tbsp mini chocolate chips, to decorate
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4. Grease and line the bases of 3 x 20cm round sandwich tins. Sift the flour, bicarbonate of soda and cocoa powder into a bowl and set aside. 2. Place the butter and sugar in a large bowl and using an electric whisk beat together until pale and fluffy. Gradually beat in the eggs then beat in the buttermilk, vanilla extract and red food colouring. Fold in the sifted flour mixture. 3. Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared tins and level the surfaces. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until risen and just firm to the touch. Leave the sponges in the tins for 10 minutes then turn out onto a wire rack and leave to cool completely. 4. To make the chocolate icing, put the chocolate and butter in a large heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Leave until melted. Remove the bowl from the heat and stir the mixture until smooth. Cool for 2-3 minutes then stir in the cream. Leave at room temperature for 20-30 minutes then chill in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the icing is just thick enough to spread. 5. To make the frosting place the softened butter in a bowl and beat in the vanilla extract. Gradually beat in the sifted icing sugar until very smooth and thoroughly blended, then beat in the soft cheese. Don’t overbeat or the icing will start to go runny. 6. To assemble the cake, sandwich all three sponges together with twothirds of the frosting and nearly all of the chocolate icing (reserve 1-2 tbsp for decorating the top of the cake). Spread the rest of the frosting around the sides and over the top of the cake, smoothing it with a spatula. 7. Gently reheat the rest of the chocolate icing in the microwave on low setting for a few seconds – it needs to be just soft enough to pipe. Spoon the icing into a paper piping bag and snip off the end. Pipe swirls of icing on top of the cake then sprinkle with chocolate chips. Chill in the fridge until ready to eat. TIP - To add an extra sweetness and colour to the cake, place 2 tbsp granulated sugar in a bag with a little red food colouring paste. Rub the bag between your fingertips to colour the sugar. Use a palette knife to coat the coloured sugar around the side of the frosted cake. Only add this final touch just before serving the cake otherwise the sugar will dissolve into the frosting.
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