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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 :)
Golden Years: Memories of 50 years ago
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Local Events
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RSPCA Re Homing Appeal
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Used Cars: Prestige Executive Saloons
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And Another Thing
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Breakthrough for Sciatica Sufferers
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Around Britain: Political World
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Health: Tackling Tinnitus
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Reader Travel Offers
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Coffee Break Puzzles
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Zoe Hart
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Five Tips to Feed the Flame
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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!
Beauty: Hot Hair Tips
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Interiors: How to create a romantic style
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Finance: PPI is it still worth considering?
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Technology: Something in the air
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Pets Corner
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Garden Feature
Tel: 0800 038 5001 Mob: 07759 536494 In and Around Magazines cover: West Drayton . Iver . Denham . Uxbridge Ickenham . Ruislip Angela Fisher 0800 038 5001 / 07759 536494 info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk
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Clubs, Groups & Classes Wordsearch
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Puzzle Solutions
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Cake & Bake: Red Velvet Cake
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Golden Years Memories of 50 Years Ago by Ted Bruning equipped French invaded the north and found themselves facing Americanequipped Viet Minh guerrillas. The Viet Minh gained yet more American weaponry in 1950 from Mao Dze-Dong, who had captured it from the defeated Chinese Nationalists; the Nationalist One of the most significant had originally been given it milestones in America’s by the Americans to fight the long involvement in Vietnam Japanese. Truman responded probably didn’t even make with a $15m donation to the the newspapers; but when, French warchest; by the time on February 9th, a US Marine the French were defeated and Corps air defence battalion arrived to establish a base at Da driven out in 1954 he had given them £3bn, and 80% of their Nang, it changed history. The Americans had already been equipment was American. By then the US was too deeply active in Vietnam since 1942 involved to walk away, but when they started supplying couldn’t afford to get pulled into Ho Chi Minh’s resistance movement, the Viet Minh, to fight another Korea and satisfied itself instead with supporting the Japanese. After the French the South first with arms and reoccupied Saigon in late 1945 money, then with “advisers”. the US started supplying them (The first two Americans killed instead, since France was far too broke to equip its own army. in Vietnam, Maj Dale Ruis and Sgt Chester Ovnand, on A year later the American-
July 8th 1959, counted as “advisers”). When Kennedy took office in 1961 the Cold War was getting a whole lot hotter. The Pentagon wanted to send in ground troops, but JFK refused – more “advisers” and weapons went over instead. Lyndon B. Johnson had fewer qualms and in August 1964 started bombing Hanoi following a (possibly staged) naval clash in the Gulf of Tonkin. He said he “wasn’t about to send American boys 10,000 miles from home to do what Asian boys ought to be doing for themselves”, but he did anyway: those USMC air defence troops were the first of over 2,000,000 Americans who served in ‘Nam in the next eight years. More than 47,000 came home in body-bags; 153,000 were seriously wounded. In the process America’s civil society was almost ripped apart and his nobler ambitions – the Great Society, the War on Poverty – were utterly swamped. And the North won.
Also in 1965
These days, American “advisers” have been deployed to Iraq...
February 1965 saw not only a very significant milestone in the Vietnam War, but an equally significant date in the Apollo Moon landing programme. On February 20th, the Ranger 8 probe crashed in the Sea of Tranquillity having transmitted 7,137 pictures of what was to be Apollo 11’s eventual landing site. The first six Rangers were complete failures; Ranger 7 took 4,300 general pictures; but it was Ranger 8 that made Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin’s epoch-making “short step”, exactly four-and-a-half years later, a practical possibility. Apollo and its associated programmes including Ranger, Lunar Surveyor, and Lunar Orbiter cost the American taxpayer about $25bn. Whether it was money well spent is a matter of personal opinion – but it has to be better value than the £111bn spent on the Vietnam War over the same period.
Happy 50th birthdays to Princess Stephanie of Monaco and Sherilynn Fenn (1st); Dr Dre (18th), Kieren Fallon (22nd), Sylvie Guillem (23rd); and Kristin Davis (24th). Cake and botox to you all!
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Dated Events (Feb15)_Layout 1 29/01/2015 01:34 Page 1
FEBRUARY EVENTS
jewellery, accessories, lingerie, hairdressing, aloe vera, lavender, cupcakes hand made soaps.
Friends of Ickenham Hall & Compass Theatre present ‘Quiz and Chips’ Sun 8th February, 7.30pm Compass Theatre, Glebe Avenue, Ickenham, UB10 8PD A friendly quiz night with a Fish/Chicken/Sausage/Veggie Chip Supper included in the price. £12pp (booking fee applies per transaction of between £1.25 & £1.75). Contact Compass Theatre to book a place 01895 673200 or www.compasstheatre.co.uk.
Local Events February into March 2015
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
Tickets cost £15 including a Bucks Fizz and a goody bag. Tea and coffee also available.
For more details or to book visit www.michaelsobelhospice.co.uk or call 01923 844730. Visit www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk. HUBB Business Breakfast Event Thu 12th February, 8am-9am Bay Lodge, 36 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1PH. Networking with local professionals and in partnership with the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce. Ward Williams’ Corporate Tax Manager, Keng Cheong will provide a ‘Tax bite from the Autumn 2014 statement’; Coffee and pastries. For details email: emma.zovich@ wardwilliams.co.uk Butterflies Indoor Boot Sale and Community Coffee Morning Sat 14th February, 9.30am-1pm The Village Hall, Ickenham. For more information call Vera on 01895 635224 or Chris on 01895 676900 or you can email ButterfliesIckenham@yahoo.com A night of comedy with John Moloney and supporting acts in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice Fri 20th February, 8.30pm The Fairway, Ruislip Golf Centre, Ickenham Road, West Ruislip, HA4 7DQ. Comedy Bunker in partnership with Michael Sobell Hospice present this evening of entertainment. Tickets £12 with £5 going to MSH. Contact Geraint Hughes on 01923 844550 or email: gvhughes@michaelsobell hospice.co.uk for tickets
DON'T MISS THE DEADLINE! If you would like us to publicise your event in our March issues contact us no later than Friday 13th February.
Bingo Fundraising Night with Fish/Chicken & Chip Supper Sat 21st February, 6.45pm for 7pm Iver Heath Village Hall, St Margaret’s Close, Iver Heath. Entry & Supper £6pp. Bingo Game Books and Raffle extra. Come on your own or with friends, please bring your own drinks, glasses etc. Book with Pat on 01753 647674. Cancer Research UK Market Sat 28th February, 10am-12.15pm The Village Hall, Ickenham. Various Stalls, Refreshments, Raffle etc. Entrance 50p. Tables available for hire call 01895 634851 for more details.
MARCH EVENTS Iver Heath Ladies Talk Mon 2nd March, Iver Heath Village Hall, St Margaret’s Close, Iver Heath. A talk by Robin bishop - The Fall and Rise of Canals in England . For details contact Pat Roberts on 01753 647674.
LIVE MUSIC EVENTS The Swan at Iver 2 High Street, Iver, SL0 9NG Fri 6th Feb Solace Fri 13th Feb 2 Tone Fri 20th Feb The Flyers Fri 27th Feb Leech The Whip & Collar 135 Swallow Street, Iver, SL0 0HU Sat 8th Feb Mark Kelly Sat 14th Feb Karaoke and music The Falcon Village Road, Denham, UB9 5BE Fri 27th Feb 'Eckie' and his 'Saxy' sounds Fri 13th March Legacy - Acoustic duo playing Country Rock & Pop The WatersEdge Packet Boat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS Fri 20th Mar Back by extremely big demand! Ladies Night with Drag Queen Tiffany Wells and 2 male strippers (Show starts 9pm with DJ 'til late £15pp inc nibbles).
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The RSPCA Hillingdon, Slough, Windsor, Kingston, District Branch are looking loving homes for these special cats that have been through so much, Sophie came in with a trauma to her eye and unfortunately where unable to save the eye, May bell was found with no tail these are just some of the cats that have been brought to the center injured and unwanted looking for a second chance for a happily ever after. Found in a warehouse and brought to us as a stray, we have no idea how this beautiful girl lost her tail. Someone has obviously cared for her at some stage but she was not microchipped and sadly noone has come forward to claim her. Maybell is not only a strik ingly attractive cat but also has the most loving and affectionate nature and is now looking for a new family to share her love with, although she would prefer to be an only cat. Please get in touch if you can give May bell the home and love she’s been missing. Sophie was brought in to our Clinic as a stray after being found in a very sad state. She had an untreat able ulcer on the surface of her eye, probably caused by some sort of trauma. The only way to give this little girl the chance of a future, was to carry out surgery to remove the eye. Following lots of special recuperative care, lovely Sophie is now fully healed and really look ing forward to finding a new home and a lifetime of love and attention. After all she’s been through, Sophie deserves a special second start in life – can you help? we have had a litter of hamsters handed in, and we are needing accommodation for each one if you have a spare hamster cages that you could donate please call us or drop it down to our clinic in Hillingdon we would greatly appreciate it. If you think you can offer one of our animals a loving home then please ring RSPCA Hillingdon Branch on 01895 833417 or visit our we b s i t e www.rspcahillingdonclinic.org.uk to download an appli cation form
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.
s m s s o m
s m
And Another Thing... by Tom Hughes
Spring being just around the corner reminded me of the time last year me and Sarah decided to visit a wedding show to give us some inspiration for our impending Big Day. Who knew that love and happiness was such a serious business? After filling out our registration form with the usual false name and address, we were allowed inside a vast exhibition hall full of stands dedicated to all things fluffy and amazing. The first stall was selling imitation red Post Boxes. Here was my first conundrum. “Sarah, what are they for?”
as well go home now.” Chastened, we proceeded down the next aisle. Walking past photographers and old men in peaked caps waving pictures of Rolls Royces, I stumbled upon the strangest stall I had ever seen. A woman was sitting behind a counter which contained nothing more than a few photographs. Then I saw it. Behind her, sat on its perch was a real life tawny owl. Yellow and black saucer eyes, a beak designed for eviscerating rodents and claws that could probably strip your flesh down to the bone. I whispered to Sarah -
begin to fathom. I decided to make some enquiries myself. The lady smiled as I leaned forward and asked, “You haven’t by any chance got a pea green boat and a pussy cat hidden under there have you?” Another sharp dig from Sarah. Through a fixed smiled she explained to me that the owl’s job was to deliver the rings at the ceremony – fly across the venue to the handler who would present them to the best man. “Yes but then who signs for them? Surely the owl can’t –“
“Our guests post their cards inside them so they don’t get lost.”
“Do you think she’s got her events mixed up? Do you think she knows this is a wedding show?”
I was then dragged away to a tax-dodging generic coffee emporium, where Sarah had to have a little word.
“Well that’s no good for us is it?”
“Of course she knows it’s a wedding show.”
“Why?”
“Then what is she doing here with that owl?”
So, after a good talking to, we continued with our investigations. But there seemed nothing here that was of any practical use for the Groom About Town. It was then I chanced upon the kind of stall I had been waiting for all day - the eyebrow stall!
“We get married at five o’clock and last post on a Saturday is 12.45.” “Tom, if you are going to mess about all day we might
“Well what do you think she’s doing?” Why someone would need an owl to get married I couldn’t
I elbowed my way to the front of the queue, muttering something about sorting out the caterpillars above my eyes. “Tom, please don’t.” But it was too late.
making this up by the way). Then suddenly, some powder appeared. Wary of edging into guy-liner territory, I was about to object when she reassured me, “Don’t worry about the powder sir, it’s waterproof.”
I presented my eyebrows to the nice lady. She glanced from one fuzzy outcrop to the other, emitting a worrying tuttut with each inspection. “Well sir, it’s gonna take a lot of hard work, but together, we’ll get there.” She then rolled out a set of miniature tools that were either for repairing the disaster above my eyes, or she had stolen a Lilliputian’s car repair kit. She then produced a tiny comb and proceeded to comb my eyebrows (I’m not
This confused me further. “Madam, I anticipate my wedding day being emotional. However, I don’t think I’ll be reciting my vows whilst standing on my head. In any case, I thought you might be trimming them, I believe the correct term is shaping? She stopped in mid-powder. “I’m sorry sir, we don’t do that here. That’s a different stall.” I turned to Sarah who, noting that I appeared to be wearing a slightly more alarmed expression than usual,
declared that maybe arranging our wedding was something best left to the experts, which as it transpired, didn’t include me. “Look Tom,” she sighed, “On the day, just turn up and leave the rest to your bride, OK?” I think life goes smoother if we all just play to our strengths, don’t you? Follow Tom’s escapades at groomsdaybook.com Twitter @groomsdaybook
Home & Interiors How to create romantic style at home 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.
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 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-
As for furniture, try to steer clear of very dark and heavy pieces, instead opting 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 trimmed with lace, embroidery or buttons, while in the kitchen an old-fashioned dresser is just the thing, piled with vintage patterned crockery. 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. If you are in a crafty mood, you could embellish a plain card or fabric shade by adding a gathered fabric edging, lace trim or ribbon bow. And 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, what else can one do to make this look come together flawlessly? In general, 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 heartshaped pieces add to the effect – perhaps a lavender bag, mirror, picture frame or soap dish – 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. Image: These embellished cushions have a gentle and romantic feel. From £19.99, all Retreat Home, tel 01628471056; www.retreat-home.com.
RomantIc style at a glance Pale colours and faded patterns Glass droplet chandeliers Venetian mirrors Rose petals Lace and ribbons Etched glass Vintage teacups Curly metal furniture
Health Beauty Tackling Tinnitus
Hot Hair Tips by Helen Taylor
By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk
This month, Tinnitus Awareness Image courtesy Week takes placeofonPaul 2ndMitchell - 8th February, and it’s important; according to the British Tinnitus Your hair can have Association, around 30% of people will experience tinnitus a massive impact at some point in their lives. the way Yeton many of us don’tyou really understand whatfeel it is, or look and sowhat find to do if we suffer from it. So a tackle flattering let’s the moststyle common misconception to make first: the most Tinnitus isn’t a disease of the good bitsor illness. and disguise the It’s a condition which can cause you to hear continuous elements of your or occasional noise in your face andbutbody you head or ears, this noise isn’t external. It may seem like don’t like. it’s in one ear, both, or neither. Sometimes it may seem to beFor coming from Face the middle of Your Shape your head or be impossible to Round faces suit pinpoint. The sound youstyles hear can be are at any pitch, and that layered andmay becut a single or several. into, sound that frame the It can sound like humming, face without making it whooshing, whistling, hissing, look rounder. buzzing, ringing orVery even,thick rarely, one length musical notes. hair won’t be
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GNH_in&around_dps_Feb2015_Layout 1 14/01/2015 17:49 Page 1
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Koblenz
The Rhine Gorge
Rhine in Flames & Moselle River Cruise by Rail or Air Departs 22 September, 2015 8 days semi-all-inclusive, from £889pp • Quote: RN9-IA This fun-packed cruise visits historic riverside towns including Cochem, Rudesheim, Koblenz and Boppard, where you will experience the wine festival and see the Rhine in Flames festival. Originally held to celebrate the grape harvest, this spectacular pyrotechnics show features an illuminated flotilla of riverboats and curtains of fire, bathing the scene in a magical glow. We have chartered the lovely mps Amsterdam exclusively for this cruise. With just 98 guests and a cosy, friendly atmosphere, this will surely be a cruise to remember.
INCLUDED: Escorted throughout • Return rail travel from London St Pancras (Ebbsfleet on request) to Brussels and coach transfer to Cologne or return flights to Cologne - supp’t may apply • 7 nights fullboard cruise on the mps Amsterdam sharing a twin outside cabin (TCB) on Main Deck upgrades available • Welcome drink on arrival • Beer, wine, & soft drinks served at lunch and dinner and from 6pm to midnight at the bar • Entertainment • Transfers abroad
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Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough QUOTE: EA3-IA
QUOTE: TD3-IA
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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
Recruiting NOW Foster carers and adopters needed
Find out more at our information events Thursday 12 February, 10am to 12 midday Tuesday 24 February, 6.30pm to 8.30pm Civic Centre, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW Please arrive five minutes before the start time.
Book your place today
fost-adopt@ hillingdon.gov.uk 0800 783 1298
www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fost-adopt
Zoe Hart FP (Feb15)_Layout 1 29/01/2015 05:05 Page 1
Age appropriate music Every parents minefield? Not any more! ZOE HART an international club DJ since 1999, turned Childrens Entertainer in 2012. She is also a qualified yoga teacher and EI and mindfulness practitioner. Her company ‘Hart Entertainments’ provides quality conscious discos for children of all ages in the Bucks, Middlesex and West London areas.
Hi, I’m Zoe and I run a local children’s disco service.
www.zoehart.co.uk - 07747 063 149
In todays world we are constantly bombarded with information and not enough time to absorb and filter it for our children, so I thought I’d help a little, at least in the area that I’m good at. Music! Each month I’ll review a selection of the top 40 hits, detailing the artists and the tracks that have caught mine and the kids attention.
UPTOWN FUNK – Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars Bruno was the voice of Roberto in Rio 2. Check his story in Wikipedia as he’s an inspiration. This track tells the story of what a great band they are and how they are going to be celebrating AGE the girls on Saturday night. 5+
UP – Olly Murs feat Demi Levato Folk inspired pop song from the lovely Olly. Good character, lovely music, child friendly all the way so far. Demi Levato sang one of the versions of the classic track from Frozen “Let it go”. The song is about working at relationships and holding on AGE to what feels good.
0+
BLANK SPACE – Taylor Swift These lyrics are being jokey, however of course young children don’t understand the difference between saying things for real and AGE joking. Hence the age rating.
7+
This month’s favourite HEROES (We could Be) – Alesso Feat Tove Lo A beautiful message wrapped up in a great dance track that the kids love to sing along and bounce around to.
AGE
STEAL MY GIRL – One Direction
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+
THESE DAYS – Take That
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+
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+
0+
MEGHAN TRAINOR - All about that bass
An swers
BUDAPEST – George Ezra Lovely innocent love song.
GNH_in&around_dps_Feb2015_Layout 1 14/01/2015 17:49 Page 1
In and Around
holidays
Five Tips To Feed The Flame
Free by Kate McLelland Drinks
with your partner and make a when you do something mental note of any negative unexpected or face a conversational habits. Some challenge together. couples constantly put each 2. Hug more, praise more other down, while others Have you both fallen out know each others’ thoughts of the habit of touching, It’s not surprising. All those so well they tend to finish hugging and smiling? Giving shared experiences of childeach others’ sentences. the odd kiss or word of rearing, family crises, career Neither approach is encouragement? It may be ups-and-downs and house particularly helpful if to start hugging and Cochem in Flames moves can leave you with a The Rhinedifficult you want to refresh your kissing your partner if you “joined-at-the hip” feeling that’s relationship, so if you’re don’t usually behave in that a million miles away from the not happy with what you way, but begin by looking attraction to an exotic “other” hear, start working out for small opportunities to you felt when you first fell in ways to improve your offer praise and physical love. communication. reassurance and gradually The number of people aged build up from there. 5. Don’t be afraid of nostalgia sixty years and over heading With luck – and given There’s no shame in off to the divorce courts (aptly Koblenz enough time - your partner The Rhine Gorge indulging in a little nostalgia. dubbed “Silver Splitters”) has will respond in the same Revisit the music you first risen by forty five per cent over way. If not, then have an listened to together, look the last decade and one of the honest discussion about why at old photographs and go main reasons for this dramatic physical contact is important to places that were once statistic is that people are now to you. living longer and seeking more important to you both. Enjoy Holidays offered by 3. Don’t create your own from their relationships. your shared history and think Departs 22 September, 2015 GN Holidays stereotypes back to the spark that made So what is the secret when 8 it days semi-all-inclusive, You’re not “mum” and “dad” from £ it all pphappen. • Quote: RN9-IA & Voyages comes to keeping love alive? to each other. Avoid the Higher Denham Here are five key tips to keep need courage trap of falling intovisits cosy historic You’ll This fun-packed cruise INCLUDED: Escortedand throughout your relationship fresh: habits St ABTA NoY0291 •ATOL 9362 that preventCochem, honesty riverside stereotypes towns including • Return to railbreak traveldown from London have(Ebbsfleet built up over years. It you from expressing yourwhere that Rudesheim, Koblenz and Boppard, Pancras on request) to 1. Challenge yourself and River Cruise may take time for the process individuality. Remember your partner you will experience the wine festival and see Brussels and coach transfer to www.gnvoyages.co.uk to work, but it will be worth it that friends and family may Trying out new pastimes and the Rhine in Flames festival. to Originally or If return flights Cologne also be reluctant see youheld inCologne the end. you can taptointo hobbies or travelling to new Coach Breaks to celebrate the sogrape - supp’t apply • 7 nights change, gently harvest, assert this some of may the excitement of fullplaces can be great ways to www.gnholidays.com pyrotechnics show features an your board cruise the mps new if you’re feeling youth byon discovering revive a tired relationship,spectacularyourself to conform to interests andsharing rediscovering flotillapressure of riverboats and curtains Amsterdam a twin outside Open 9am 5.30pm buttothe key weekdays word here is illuminatedunder their the expectations. pleasures, every 9.30am 12.30pm of fire, bathing scene in a magical glow. old cabin (TCB) on there’s Main Deck “new”:toit’s important to move you’ll relight• Welcome a flame drink 4. Eavesdrop on your own outSaturdays of your comfort zone. We have chartered the lovely mps chance upgrades available will keep youwine, warm for drinks You’ll be surprised how Amsterdamconversations exclusively for this cruise. With that on arrival • Beer, & soft many years to come. Listen to yourself as you talk quickly the spark returns just 98 guests and a cosy, friendly served at lunch and dinner and atmosphere, this will surely be a cruise to from 6pm to midnight at the bar • Entertainment • Transfers abroad remember. Ask any long-established, middle-aged couple how they keep romance alive, and there’s a good chance they will laugh out loud.
Call 01895 83 33 33 for bookings and information
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Rhine in Flames & Moselle River Cruise by Rail or Air 889
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Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough QUOTE: EA3-IA
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BUCKINGHAM HOUSE
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LUXURY CARE HOME Gerrards Cross 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
Looking for Care for a Loved One?
Buckingham House QUOTE: HA4-IA
QUOTE: DG5-IA
Care Home
Off Oxford Road, Gerrards Cross Buckinghamshire SL9 7DP The home provides five-star accommodation for 53 residents each room is en-suite and decorated to a luxurious hotel standard. Buckingham House also boasts a café, 2 dining rooms and a hairSPRING and beauty salon, amongst its outstanding facilities. HARROGATE BEAUTIFUL GARDENS
OFcare DEVON Contact us now for details on and recruitment FLOWER SHOW & YORK
01753 468200 4 Days Tel: Half Board, £269pp
Email: viewings@mmcg.co.uk 6 Days Half Board, £459pp Departs Sunday 10 May, 2015 Departs Friday 24 April, 2015 Web: www.mmcgcarehomes.co.uk
INCLUDED: 3 nights stay at Jury’s Inn hotel, Leeds
INCLUDED: 5 nights hotel stay in Woolacombe, North
Harrogate Spring Flower Show • Coach travel and
Abbey, Marwood Hill and RHS Rosemoor gardens,
excursions
including entry • Coach travel and excursions
Nursingand Care Residential Dementia Care Devon Day•Care Care Palliative Care • 3 dinners 3 breakfasts • Visits Care to York and 5 dinnersRespite and 5 breakfasts • Visits to Hartland
Health Beauty Tackling Tinnitus
Hot Hair Tips
By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk
by Helen Taylor
can cause temporary hearing
loss and almost anytinnitus, style. and need to be treated swiftly.
Damage the hair Shape cells in For YourtoBody
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styles, keep the length ‘lift’ our facial features. below your chin and choose Long hair looks fabulous British association: Helpline –when Tel 0800 018 0527 layersTinnitus to frame your face you’re 25, Email: but info@tinnitus.org.uk www.tinnitus.org.uk and jaw line. Loss: Tinnitus Information action on Hearing Line: Tel 0808 808you’re 6666 | Textphone 0808 808 9000 not so good when tinnitushelpline@hearingloss.org.uk http://www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk/your-hearing/tinnitus.aspx 55, because the lengthy Turn Back The Clock (downloadable leaflets available free) tresses tend to drag your Hearing Link: Helpdesk:-0300 Email:down. helpdesk@hearinglink.org http://www.hearinglink.org/tinnitus The right hairstyle and111 1113 face For more InFormaTIon and supporT:
Home & Interiors How to create romantic style at home
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.
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 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-
As for furniture, try to steer clear of very dark and heavy pieces, instead opting 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 trimmed with lace, embroidery or buttons, while in the kitchen an old-fashioned dresser is just the thing, piled with vintage patterned crockery. 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. If you are in a crafty mood, you could embellish a plain card or fabric shade by adding a gathered fabric edging, lace trim or ribbon bow. And don’t forget that twinkly fairy lights and a selection of candles or tea lights (preferably scented) will really add atmosphere to your home.
ceramics. Accessorise with fine china teacups and cake stands, delicately etched glassware and bone-handled cutlery. One or two heartshaped pieces add to the effect – perhaps a lavender bag, mirror, picture frame or soap dish – 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.
RomantIc style at a glance Pale colours and faded patterns
Glass droplet chandeliers Venetian mirrors Rose petals Lace and ribbons Etched glass
And speaking of finishing touches, what else can one do to make this look come together flawlessly? In general, choose surface finishes that are shiny and reflective, from mirror to pearl, polished metal to glazed
Image: These embellished cushions have a gentle and romantic feel. From £19.99, all Retreat Home, tel 01628471056; www.retreat-home.com.
Vintage teacups Curly metal furniture
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, but first here’s a short history of the PPI misselling scandal. • 2005: the Financial Services Authority (FSA) released its first report on the mis-selling of PPI. Citizens Advice also
complained to the Office of Fair Trading (OFT). • 2008: the Competition Commission took over the OFT investigation and decided to ban the selling of PPI in relation to credit cards and loans. • 2009: some financial institutions challenged this ruling in court, but the challenge failed. • 2010: the FSA recommended that all consumers who were missold this product should be compensated. The British Banking Association sought a judicial review, and the majority of compensation payments stopped at this point. • 2011: the banks lost their case and claims against mis-selling resumed with a vengeance. 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. A trusted financial advisor will guide you through this process – preferably one who specialises in PPI, as only with the hard facts can you make an informed decision. There are fewer companies selling PPI these days, but some offer very similar products presented under a different name. A Repayment Option Plan is one such product. This is usually sold alongside credit card borrowing, and is supposed to protect against redundancy or being unable to work through sickness. The product works by offering payment holidays or freezing of the credit card account for a specified period of time, with
charges and fees being levied for the privilege.
life insurance policies have clauses that include this, and it’s easy to forget they are there.
including stress, and being unable to work due to back pain.
Carry out your own due diligence
If you’re still considering taking out a PPI or similar product, there are several things you can do to minimise the risk of making a mistake: • 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
• 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.
So what exclusions should you be looking for? 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
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.
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
Pets Corner... (Feb15)_Layout 1 21/01/2015 12:51 Page 1
RABBIT QUICK STATS: Life span: 6 to 8 years Weaning: 7 to 8 weeks Sexual maturity: 16-24 weeks Gestation: 30-33 days Litter size: Average 7, Range 4-12
Keeping Rabbits... CONTINUING on from last time, this month we look at another small pet - the Rabbit...
HOUSING AND HANDLING: Rabbits are very sociable animals and need companionship. They can be kept happily together but strangers may fight. It is commonly believed that guinea pigs are good companions for rabbits but this often leads to the rabbit bullying it's companion. In any case allow for separate sleeping quarters and 'bolt holes' like bits of old piping for privacy. Rabbits make very good house pets and can be housetrained. A hutch may make a secure sleeping place out-ofdoors but is not suitable for long periods of time. Outdoor rabbits should be provided with a large run preferably with mixed hard and grass surfaces. It is important to handle your rabbit as much as possible to reduce aggression but remember, some rabbits do not like to be held so it may be safer to handle them on the ground. Regularly examine your rabbit especially for overgrown teeth and claws and under the tail for signs of contamination with faeces and urine, and fly strike. FEEDING: Rabbits should be fed on a diet that is high in fibre. It is not advisable to feed an all-in-one muesli style/mixed flakes diet and never give sweet treats. Fresh hay (preferably Timothy hay) should be offered ad lib with approx. 25 grams per kilogram of extruded pellets and around a cupful a day of mixed fresh greens but avoid succulent vegetables, fruit, iceberg lettuce and carrots apart from their tops. Fresh grass is ideal but lawn grass may be poor in fibre. Some garden plants may be poisonous and too much clover can cause bloat. Rabbits produce two types of droppings: soft green caecotrophs that they recycle and hard brown faeces. Rabbits with sore teeth, or if they are overweight, from a poor diet, may not be able to eat the caecotrophs and these can adhere to the fur around the anus. This can lead to fly strike. NEUTERING: Female rabbits (does) should be neutered, not only to prevent unwanted litters but to prevent ovarian cancer and other uterine disorders. Male rabbits don't need castrating (so long as the doe is neutered!) unless there are particular behavioural problems. VACCINATION: Even indoor rabbits should be vaccinated against two fatal diseases: Myxomatosis and Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (VHD). Myxomatosis is transmitted by
biting insects, so outdoor rabbits are particularly at risk. It causes a severe respiratory disease with swelling of the face and head. VHD can be transmitted on contaminated hay and straw and causes an acute respiratory disease with bleeding from the lungs. PARASITE CONTROL: Rabbits should treated for worms and E.cunicili 2-4 times a year. They commonly suffer from fleas, a fur-mite called Cheylitiella and ear mites. Rabbits that are not kept clean will attract blow flies, the maggots of which can literally eat them alive!. While it is essential to keep your rabbit clean there are products are available from vets to help prevent these distressing problems.
M C Atkinson BVSc MRCVs www.stmartinsvetclinic.com
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.
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HOBBIES...
Iver Flower Club The Coppins Room, Iver Village Hall, Grange Way, Iver, SL0 9HW. Meets 4th Thursday of month, 7.30pm. Call Jayne on 07730 249876. www.bbando.org.uk/clubs/iver
Afternoon Leisure Painting Monday 2pm to 4pm and Wednesday 1.30pm to 3.30pm. The advanced and fundamental concepts of art in any media. Enthusiastic people welcome to learn. Southlands Arts Centre telephone Knit & Knatterers Hand and Machine Knitting, Crochet 01895 632171 2nd & 4th Monday of the month 7.309.30pm at Southlands Arts Centre. Crafty Cards Tel: 01895 421777 Have fun creating your own cards. 2nd and 4th Friday, 10am to 12noon. Les Artists - Evening Contact 01753 652 459 Wednesday 7.30pm to 9.30pm. A mixed ability class for still life, Craft Evening Group portraiture etc. All welcome at SouthTuesday 7.30pm. Members own lands Arts Centre. 0208 797 4635 projects and workshops to share experience and further skills at Outline Theatre Group Southlands Arts Centre. Tel: 01895 At St. Matthews Church, Yiewsley. Every 442980 Tuesday 7.30-9.30pm. All welcome from 8yrs+. See www.outlinetheatre. Handicraft - Morning Group co.uk or call Robert Jones on 01895 Tuesday 10am to 12 noon, needlecraft and any handicraft with material. Paper 446352 3D decoupage, patchwork, cross stitch, Painting Group - Morning soft toys etc., at Southlands Arts Tues 10am-1pm. Experienced waterCentre. Tel: 01895 442910 colorists very welcome at Southlands Arts Centre. Tel: 01895 421328 Harlington Locomotive Society Every Thursday, 8pm at the club in High Spinning & Weavers Group Street, Harlington, Hayes, Middlesex Tues 7.30-9.30pm at Southlands Arts UB3 5ET. For details call Peter Tarrant Centre. Tel: 01895 443481 on 01895 851168
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 Hillingdon Railway Modellers Club Meet every Thursday, 7.30pm at Yiewsley Baptist Church. Contact tonymoth@Hotmail.co.uk Hillingdon Natural History Society Meets 1st wed of the month at the Scout HQ, Gatting Way, Uxbridge. enquiries@hillingdonnaturalhistorysociety.org.uk 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
The Language Clubs of Hillingdon From late Sept until mid-July. Visitors welcome, 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 Friday of the month at 7.30 pm 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 West Drayton & District History Society The society meets on the last Tuesday of each month Sep-May (excluding Dec) at St Martins Church Hall, Church Road at 7.30pm. Each month there is a talk of either local or national interest. During the summer months a programme of visits and walks are arranged. Membership £6 per year. Call either Paul 07980 483182 or Cyril 07704 837042 for details.
Yiewsley Angling & West Drayton Fishing Clubs Every Thursday 8-10.30pm Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. For more details call 01895 443423 KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA... Bagot Stack (Fitness League) Term Time Only. Vyners School, UB10 8AB on Tue 7.30 - 8.30pm. Also in Windsor Monday & Thursday. Call Rosemary 01628 776838 www.thefitnessleague.com Bokwa Dance Fitness Over-50's group Energetic workout that anyone can pick up, dancer or not. Saturdays 10.3011.30am, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Contact Penny, 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk Dance, Gymnastics and Free Running Classes Presented by Futunity Uk in Uxbridge Town Centre & Hillingdon Sports & Leisure centre. Ages 2-adults catered for and all styles of dance from RAD ballet, Contemporary & ISTD Tap to Break Dancing , Street Dance, Hip Hop & Zumba. Check out our website for full class listings, www.futunityuk.com. Contact Futunity Uk Head Office 01895 251224 or email admin@futunityuk.com Fitness Club St Catherine School, Money Lane, West Drayton, UB7 7NX. Thursday 6-7pm. Circuits, Fitness and Boxercise. £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, www.tauruspt.co.uk Tel: 07906 087749 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 Contact Deidre e: Deirdreosullivan@ hotmail.co.uk t: 07956 346383 Ladies Only Kickboxing Club Wednesdays, 6.30-8.00pm at Watts Hall, Redford Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1SZ. First Class FREE! Just turn up or call Instructor Leanne Phillips on 07518 848285 e: leanne @kickboxinglongdon.co.uk www.kickboxing-london.co.uk continued over...
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KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA CONTINUED...
Linedance for Improvers Tuesdays 12-2pm Royal British Legion, Station Road, West Drayton. Call Instructor Ann 0791 435 8050
Line Dancing Thurs 12-2pm. St Martins Church Hall, Church Road, West Drayton. Call Susan 01895 832837 susanwynne376@gmail.com
Linedancing Tuesday evenings 7.30-10.30pm. Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Call Ann on 0791 435 8050 Modern Jive Classes Mondays, 8-11pm, West Drayton Community Centre Thursdays, 8-11pm, Uxbridge Civic Centre. Beginners welcome, first night entry and free lifetime membership with this advert. Contact: Alan 0208 933 4350 or 07860 250961 or email: alanandsue@clubceroc.com.
Nordic Walking & Wellbeing Explore our borough’s green spaces . with all round exercise in the open air 4 wk courses various days and locations pre-booking essential contact 07771 872 592 / learningmoves@hotmailco.uk Pilates and Tai Chi Fit courses Tuesdays 7.30-8.30pm, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Contact Penny 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk Pinewood Fitness The Fitness Room, Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, Sl0 0NH Mon 20.00-21.00, Wed 19.30-20.30 Booking only. Various Fitness Circuits, Boxercise, Gym Work £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, www.tauruspt.co.uk 07906 087749 Salsa Classes Every Monday: The Middlesex Arms, Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HG. Beginners class starts 8pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.459.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm. Every Wednesday: The WatersEdge, Canal Cottages, Packetboat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. Beginners class
starts 7:30pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.309.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm
Tai Chi Classes Sat 10-11am, Yiewsley Methodist Church, Fairfield Road, UB7 8EY. Call Dan on 07880 601429 to book.
Tap Dance Mondays 7.30-8.30pm at Meadows Community Centre, West Drayton. Adult Beginner/Intermediate tap. No exams. Contact 01895 420409 / learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk. Yoga for All Wednesday 7.30-9.00pm Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Priya 01895 440712
Zumba Mon 6pm, Walter Pomeroy Hall, Royal Lane Hillingdon UB8 3QU. Tues 7.30pm, St Marys Church Hall, Hemmen Lane (off Church Rd, Hayes) UB3 2JQ. All welcome. £5. Ann-Marie Samuels 07701 012927 Zumba Fitness Class Weds 8-9pm at Langley Grammar School Sport Centre Reddington Drive Langley, SL3 8LL. Thurs 7-8pm at Yiewsley / West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Rd, West Drayton. UB7 9JL. Call Gabriel 07735090325 or email gabrielzumba@instructor.net www.gabriel84.zumba.com PRE-SCHOOL & KIDS GROUPS... Mobile Disco for Children A mobile disco available for hire, for children of all ages call Zoe on 07747 063149 for details. Slough Sea Cadets Parade nights on Mon and Thu 19.30-21.30 at Langley Pavillion, Langley Road, Slough, SL3 8BS. Male & Female Junior Cadets (age 10-12yrs) & Cadets (age 1218yrs). Fees £2pw, courses from £5. Email: sloughseacadets@yahoo.co.uk Stars at Knight After school Drama Club for children 7-18 yrs at Southlands Art Centre, 76 The Green, West Drayton. Tel: 0208 841 8940 / 07956 123626 e: starsatknightdrama@gmail.com www.starsatknight-schoolofdrama.co.uk
MUSIC... Faraday Country Music Club in Slough SL2 1RN. Join us for the best live Country Music every Thursday for listeners, western partners, freestyle or line dancers. From 8-11pm. Call Deb 07986 050742 www.faradaycountry.co.uk Guitar lessons Complete beginners welcome. Contact Sam for a FREE lesson 07798 588496 sam@uxbridgeguitarlessons.co.uk Yiewsley & West Drayton Band Rehearse every Wednesday and Friday 8-10pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. To join or book the band for an engagement contact Lynne on 07976 824152 or email Lynne@ywdband.com Yiewsley & West Drayton Training Band This is open to all ages wanting to learn to play a brass instrument or those of you wanting to 'brush up' your skills. Rehearse every Wednesday during term time 6.457.45pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. Contact Abi on 07985 302 856 or emailtraining@ywdband.com PETS... Iver Dog Training Club Every Tue and Fri 6.30pm-9.00pm at St Andrews Church, Richings Park. Call Diana 01753 732907 Iver Heath Fields Dog Club 'Outdoor Training' every Sat at 10.15am, Wed at 11am. Call Mike on 01753 817852 or 07795 031335 SELF DEFENCE... Close Quarter Combat Based in Richings Park. Specialising in speed, strength and conditioning training. Pad work combinations. Suitable for men & women of all ages. 1-2-1 sessions. Call Mark 07525 366126 e: mj.wilding@hotmail.com continued over...
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SELF DEFENCE CONTINUED...
SELF HELP & SUPPORT...
Karate Club of Denham For ages 5 years and upwards. Sundays 9.15-11am at New Denham Community Centre, Oxford Road. Call 07988 743725
Alcoholics Anonymous Meet every Sunday, 7.30pm at St Leonards Hall, St Leonards Walk, Richings Park, Iver, SL0 9DD. For more call Howard 07816 315688
Karate Club of Uxbridge For ages 5 years and upwards. Wed 5-7pm at The Greenway, Uxbridge. Call 07988 743725
Hillingdon Brain Tumour Group Support group held every 2nd Thurs of the month 12.30-2.30pm, Hillingdon Baptist Church, Hercies Rd, Hillingdon, UB10 9LS. Call Cyril or Becky 01895 637444.
Kung Fu Club (Ladies only) A work out for all ladies, at all levels of fitness on Monday and Thursday mornings from 9.30 to 10.30am. West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Road, UB7 9JL. Contact Ella: 07702 479 435 or sportsclubuk@gmail.com Heathrow Boxing Club Men & women, boys & girls Junior Boxing Club: Tue & Thu, 5pm. Senior Boxing Club Mon, Tue & Thu, 8pm. 422 Bath Road, Longford, Middlesex, UB7 0EB. Tel: 0208 123 1271. Martial Arts Bujinkan Kuri Dojo Ninjutsu and Bujutsu, Unit 21 Bridgeworks, UB8 2JG. Tel: 07878 471124. Training: Sunday 10.30am-12.30pm, Tuesday 8-10pm, Thursday 8.3010pm www.bujinkankuridojo.co.uk Shorinji Kempo self defence Learn the practical self defence techniques of this traditional Japanese martial art. Tue 6-7pm children (£2), 7-9pm adults (£5). The Barn, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge. Call Dan 07776 421957. www.sk.harrow.ac.uk Silat Kuntao Indonesian Self-Defence Traditional self-defence, includes empty hand, 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 kuntao.matjan.uk@gmail.com.
Rosemary Conley Every Thursday 10-11.30am, Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Call Sarah on 0208 569 0181 Slimming World The Salvation Army, Cowley Road, Uxbridge. Tuesday 7pm Tel: Nicki 07826 698360 Slimming World New Denham Community Centre Tuesday, 10-11.30am. New joiners turn up at 10am to register Tel: Mandy 07879 897578 Slimming World Yiewsley Methodist Church, Farfield Road, Yiewsley. Wednesdays 5pm or 6.45pm. Tel: Nicki 07826 698360 Weight Watchers Every Tuesday, 5.30pm and Friday at 10.00am Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Call 01784 256974 or 07879 455882 SOCIAL GROUPS... Harlington Women’s Institute Every 1st Wed of month, 7.309.30pm at Landsdown House, St Peter's Way Hayes UB3 5AB. Call Sarah Wilson 0208 759 0019 Over 60s Social Group Male, Female and couples. Meet fortnightly at various agreed venues. Judith 07980 073170 Mel 07785 582323 jlholl2014@gmail.com
Southlands Ladies Group Talks, outings, own evenings. Mon fortnightly. Call 01895 445766 Senior Citizens Welfare Association W/D & Yiewsley Bingo played every 4th Wednesday of month 1- 3.30pm. Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Transport available. 01895 443956 Senior Citizens Welfare Association Chair Exercise Classes Mondays 11am-11.45am. Call 01895 443423 for details or pop along to the West Drayton Community Centre. Tea Dancing 2-4pm every Tuesday at Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre Women’s Social Group Looking to make new friends? Social group for women. We meet regularly for coffee, a chat and have organised trips. Call Seema 07730 898635 or seemaa@seemaa.co.uk SPORT... Hayes & Harlington Road Runners Every Wed, 8pm at Hayes and Harlington Community Association, Albert Road, Hayes. Email: michsampson76@aol.com (ladies) jack.nisbet@talk21.com (men) www.hhroadrunners.com. Pink Ladies Netball Club All levels and abilities welcome. Training at Stockley Academy, West Drayton every Tues evening. Senior training 16+yrs 7.30-9pm. Back to Netball 16+yrs 7.30- 8.30pm Under 16s - call Rhiannon 01895 448878 email: plnetball@hotmail.co.uk visit www.pinkladiesnetball.co.uk Uxbridge Squash Club All welcome. Uxbridge Cricket Club, Park Rd, Uxbridge. E: squash@ uxbridgesquash.org.uk or visit: www.uxbridgesquash.org.uk. Yiewsley & West Drayton Bowls Club Interested? Come along, just bring your flat shoes! Tuesdays 2pm. Call Kenny Smith 07957 140627.
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Cake & Bake
Red Velvet Cake Serves 8 Ready in 1 hour 30 minutes plus cooling and chilling
This luscious cake is an American classic and has a vibrant red coloured chocolate sponge filled with a tangy soft cheese frosting and dark chocolate icing. THE CAKE • 300g plain flour • 2 tsp bicarbonate of soda • 4 tbsp cocoa powder • 235g butter, softened, plus extra for greasing • 300g caster sugar • 3 medium eggs, beaten • 200ml buttermilk • 1� tsp vanilla extract • 2 tbsp liquid red food colouring THE CHOCOLATE ICING • 140g plain chocolate, broken into pieces • 75g butter, diced • 75ml double cream THE FROSTING • 55g unsalted butter, softened • � tsp vanilla extract • 115g icing sugar, sifted • 115 g full-fat soft cheese • 1 tbsp mini chocolate chips, to decorate
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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