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The first first month month of of Spring Spring and and the the month month of of con con The ception for five of the six In and Around Maga ception for five of the six In and Around Maga zines. March March isis the the official official birthday birthday for for West West zines. Drayton, which which celebrates celebrates its its 9th 9th year, year, Denham Denham Drayton, its 7th, 7th, Uxbridge Uxbridge its its 4th 4th and and Ickenham Ickenham and and its Ruislip their their 2nd. 2nd. II myself myself will will also also have have be be Ruislip come a year older, although exact figures shall come a year older, although exact figures shall remain aa close close guarded guarded secret. secret. Let’s Let’s just just say say aa remain cake with one very large candle would be pref cake with one very large candle would be pref erableto toan anedible ediblefire firehazard! hazard! erable It’salso alsothe thestart startof of (Don’t (Don’t It’s forgetto toput putyour your clocks clocks forward forwardan anhour hour at at 1am 1am forget on ). ). Yes, Yes, II know know we we lose lose on precious hour’s hour’s sleep, sleep, but but we we can can look look for for aa precious ward to lighter evenings, daffodils and other ward to lighter evenings, daffodils and other spring flowers flowers popping popping up up everywhere, everywhere, warmer warmer spring weather and best of all, lower gas and electric weather and best of all, lower gas and electric itybills. bills. ity this this year, so so get get those those tables tables booked booked and and those those year, flowers ordered. ordered. For For me mepersonally, personally, this this will will be be flowers beyond my my daughter daughter Samantha’s Samantha’s budget budget as as beyond she’s still at school. But, if you’re reading this she’s still at school. But, if you’re reading this dear child child of of mine, mine, I’d I’d like like bacon, bacon, sausages, sausages, dear egg and toast for breakfast. The fridge has egg and toast for breakfast. The fridge has beenstocked stockedin inanticipation. anticipation. been Wishingyou youall allaafabulous fabulous March! March! Wishing . .
Tel: 0800 0800 038 038 5001 5001 Tel: Mob: 07759 536494 Mob: 07759 536494
In and and Around Around Magazines Magazines cover: cover: In West Drayton . Iver . Denham Uxbridge West Drayton . Iver . Denham .. Uxbridge Ickenham . Ruislip Ickenham . Ruislip Angela Fisher Fisher Angela 0800 038 038 5001 5001 // 07759 07759 536494 536494 0800 info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk
www.inandaroundpublishing.co.uk www.inandaroundpublishing.co.uk 4
Children’sPuzzle PuzzlePage Page Children’s 66 The League of Friends of Hillingdon Hospital The League of Friends of Hillingdon Hospital 88 Wordsearch Wordsearch 88 MothersDay DayAround Aroundthe theWorld World 10 Mothers 10 PropertyMatters Matters 14 Property 14 LocalEvents Events 18 Local 18 ThePPJJGathergood GathergoodBlog Blog 20 The 20 CoffeeBreak BreakPuzzles Puzzles 22 Coffee 22 Interiors:Look LookBack BackininNostalgia Nostalgia 24 Interiors: 24 Beauty:Wrinkle WrinkleRemoval Removal 26 Beauty: 26 Designer Life 28 Designer Life 28 Breakthroughfor forSciatica SciaticaSufferers Sufferers 30 Breakthrough 30 Puzzle Solutions 30 Puzzle Solutions 30 Health: Quit While You’re Ahead 32 Health: Quit While You’re Ahead 32 ZoeHart Hart 34 Zoe 34 Finance: Pension Rules are Changing 36 Finance: Pension Rules are Changing 36 GoldenYears: Years:Memories Memoriesof of50 50Years YearsAgo Ago 40 Golden 40 KarenMunro: Munro:Careers Careers 42 Karen 42 And Another Thing 44 And Another Thing 44 ReaderHolidays Holidays 46 Reader 46 Local Events 48 Recipe: Haddock Kedgeree 48 Short Story: Floppity Poppity 50 Short Story: Floppity Poppity 50 CitizensAdvice AdviceBureau Bureau 52 Citizens 52 RSPCARe ReHoming HomingAppeal Appeal 52 RSPCA 52 RichingsPark ParkResidents ResidentsAssociation Association 54 Richings 54 GardeningFeature Feature 66 Gardening 66 Iver/Iver Heath Schools Community 58 Iver/Iver Heath Schools Community 58 PetsCorner Corner 60 Pets 60 WildlifeZone Zone 62 Wildlife 62 Motoring: Land Rover Discovery Sport SD4 66 Motoring: Land Rover Discovery Sport SD4 66 Clubs,Groups Groups&&Classes Classes 68,70,72&&74 74 Clubs, 68,70,72
We are are grateful grateful for for the the support support of of local local businesses businesses whose whose We adverts appear appear inin this this publication publication and and whilst whilst every every care care isis adverts taken to to ensure ensure accuracy, accuracy, the the publishers publishers cannot cannot accept accept taken responsibility for for any any errors, errors, omissions, omissions, claims claims made made by by responsibility advertisers or or endorse endorse companies, companies, products products or or services. services. advertisers Thispublication, publication,its itscontents contentsand andadvert advertdesigns designsare are©© of ofIn In This andAround AroundPublishing. Publishing. Any Anycopying copyingor orreproduction reproductionininpart part and orfully, fully,isisstrictly strictlyforbidden forbiddenwithout withoutour ourprior priorconsent. consent. or
T HE B UL L HO TE L
MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH EASTER SUNDAY LUNCH SUNDAY 15TH MARCH SUNDAY 5TH APRIL
Three-course carvery lunch with a glass of Bucks Fizz and a gift for Mum.
Three-course carvery lunch, Easter Egg hunt and Easter Egg gift for every child.
£35.00 per adult £17.50 per child (4-12 years)
£27.50 per adult £13.75 per child (4-12 years)
Prices are per person and correct at time of print. Children under 4 eat for free.
The Bull Oxford Road, Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire SL9 7PA t 01753 336137 e bull@sarova.com w sarova.com sarovahotels
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E
ton End School is an Independent Preparatory Day school located in over 6 acres of rural countryside on the outskirts of Datchet.
One chil�hoo�
We welcome boys age 3 – 7 and girls age 3 – 11. Pastoral care is our strength and personal development is as important as academic attainment.
“The pace and variety of activities and learning initiatives across the school are stunning” Current Parent, Autumn 2011
One E�ucation
Eton End School 35 Eton Road • Datchet • Berkshire • SL3 9AX Tel: 01753 541075 Email: admin@etonend.org Website: www.etonend.org For further information or to arrange a visit please contact our Registrar
7 A43770 Eton End Generic Ad A6 landscape.indd 1
25/10/2011 10:28
If you have two hours spare once or twice a month, the League of Friends of Hillingdon Hospi tal would like to hear from you, as they are looking for a couple of additional volunteers to join their existing team, to help in the Tea Bar and “Baby Boutique” at The Hillingdon Hospital, Pield Heath Road, Hillingdon. The League of Friends is a voluntary organiza tion. All profits and funds raised by the Tea Bar and “Baby Boutique” are used to fund additional equipment and services for the welfare and bene fit of patients at Hillingdon Hospital. The Tea Bar is based in the main Outpatients Dept and sells a wide selection of rolls, sand wiches, confectionary and drinks. It is open from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm each weekday. The “Baby Boutique” is located on the ground floor of the Duchess of Kent Maternity Wing, sell
Answers pg 30 8
Do you have a couple of hours spare one or twice a month? ing baby clothes and accessories as well as snacks, drinks and confectionary. The “Boutique” opens from 10.30 am to 4.00 pm each weekday and also opens at weekends for a couple of hours. We are looking for dependable volunteers who can help us for a minimum of 2 hours a month on a rota basis, who enjoy meeting and helping people, are able to use tact and initiative where necessary and are capable of handling money. The work is ideal for active, retired peo ple or those who would simply like to make a worthwhile contribution to the local community.
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Mother’s Day Around The World By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk
Mothers deserve attention all year round, so why do we celebrate mothers on one special day - and do other countries follow suit?
The UK Traditionally, on ‘Mothering Sunday’ (the fourth Sunday in Lent) people returned to their baptismal ‘mother church’. As their parents’ home was often nearby, over time the day became a holiday for visiting family. Flowers were gathered on the way home and mums received Simnel cakes. Observance of Mothering Sunday gradually withered but after its revival in 1920 it spread throughout the Empire, becoming known as Mother’s Day. Around the World Most countries have a Mother’s Day, but origins and traditions vary. Unless stated otherwise, countries below follow U.S. tradition, celebrating on the second Sunday in May. In France, American soldiers introduced their Mother’s Day during the First World War. Originally focussed on fertile mothers, today Fête des Mères celebrates all mothers, who traditionally receive a cake shaped like a bouquet of flowers. France celebrates on the last Sunday in May, as does Sweden, where the Red Cross sells plastic flowers in aid of deprived mothers. 10
In Italy mums receive a heartshaped cake, but on the second Sunday before Christmas children in Serbia tie their mother up until she gives them treats. Egypt’s Mother’s Day on 21st March is celebrated with songs devoted to mothers. In Nepal, children return to the family home on “Aama ko Mukh Herne Din” (“to see Mother’s face”) on the last day of Baishak dark fortnight, making breakfast for their mothers and giving them gifts, favourite foods and new clothes. Those who have lost mothers visit Mata Tirtha, a sacred site with a pool in which they ‘look upon their mother’s face’. The USA didn’t keep English Mother’s Day, but Anna Jarvis campaigned for one in honour of her mother, who introduced “Mothers’ Friendship Day” after the Civil War. At a church service on the second anniversary of her mother’s death (the second Sunday of May), Anna distributed her mother’s favourite flowers: white carnations. Today they signify mothers who have passed away, while coloured carnations honour mothers still living. In Australia, Mother’s Day grew from Janet Heyden’s campaign to give gifts to lonely inmates of Newington State Home for Women. Schoolchildren in Japan draw pictures of their mothers for a nationwide competition and winning
pictures travel the country in a mobile exhibition. Mexico’s Mother’s Day on 10th May was once a pawn in battles between government and church on modernisation and materialism. It now celebrates both mothers and the Virgin Mary. Children often arrive at their mother’s house the night before. Traditionally the day starts with mass before mothers are presented with a breakfast of tamales and atole, but many mothers are now treated to breakfast at home, accompanied by a song. In Paraguay, Mother’s Day is celebrated with Dia de la Patria (Independence Day) on 15th May, to honour Juana María de Lara’s role in winning Paraguay’s independence. Similarly, Bolivia’s Dia de la Madre Boliviana on 27th May commemorates the women killed fighting for independence in the Battle of Coronilla. In Ethiopia, their ‘Antrosht’ celebration lasts three days, beginning after the rains have ceased (usually October/ November). Traditionally, mothers cook a special meal but daughters provide dairy products, vegetables and spices while sons bring the meat. Afterwards they enjoy traditional songs and dances. So why not celebrate Mexican-style this year and sing your Mum a song?
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Bertram’s at Smith’s Garden Centre, is more than just a Café…… When Bertram Thomas Smith started growing in his two small green houses back in 1931, he would never have believed that over eight decades later, a Café would be named in his honour.
Bertram’s Café is now a well-established and much loved eatery amongst it’s regulars. But to others, it’s an unknown and hidden gem!
On Sundays the roast is “Legendary” said one fan recently. “We come here often as the
food is amazing and such good value”. It’s no surprise really as the Sunday Lunch Carvery at Bertram’s offers a choice of two fresh joints of meat, freshly cooked vegetables and roast potatoes, all made in house. Bertram’s Big Breakfast is also a favourite with regulars and is available all day. Or for those who might want a ‘proper drink’, Bertram’s is also licensed so you can enjoy a glass of wine or beer with your meal.
n tea
Afternoo
Popular for those small celebrations is the ‘Afternoon Tea’ Menu, a delight of freshly made sandwiches, cakes, pastries and lots of tea!
Open from 8am weekdays, with free wifi and free parking, Bertram’s is the ideal place for a meeting too. You can reserve a table and even enjoy a ‘Breakfast Platter’ of fresh pastries for your group, just call to book.
Smith’s Su
nday Roas
t
So pop into Bertram’s Café today and try out the menu, there are also meal deals and special daily offers too. Smith’s Nurseries, 95 Oxford Road, New Denham, UB9 4DE Tel; 01895 233844
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Join us on Facebook or Twitter or visit the website www.smiths-nurseries.co.uk
Bertram's Café
SHED
SALE
15% OFF
• Order an Apex or Pent (flat roof) shed in the below sizes before the 1st April for 15% Off list price • Available sizes for deal: 6` x 4` | 7` x 5` | 8` x 6` (all in feet) • Choose where you want your doors and windows (or no windows) when ordering • Visit us in-store to see the full shiplap construction sheds on display • Order with one of our shed experts and quote `SHED15` to get the deal • All sheds are made to order and usually delivered within 3 weeks • Local delivery included in the price* 6` X 4` SHEDS FROM £292 (inc VAT + local delivery) 7` X 5` SHEDS FROM £338 (inc VAT + local delivery) 8` X 6` SHEDS FROM £385 (inc VAT + local delivery) • Pop in-store to pick up a brochure and price list, or download them from www.smiths-nurseries.co.uk • *Assembly is extra, please call us on 01895 233844 for more info • Our garden buildings are made by TGB. They are made of high quality shiplap and manafactured to a very high standard. They do not consist of any chipboard and/or `sheet` material that is often used in substandard garden buildings. • We supply many more sheds, summerhouses, playhouses and garden storage solutions, call us for more info..
Tel: 01895
233 844
www.smiths-nurseries.co.uk
95 OXFORD ROAD | NEW DENHAM | MIDDLESEX | UB9 4DE
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Smiths Nurseries_Ad A5_0215.indd 1
05/02/2015 09:24
Property
In 2012 the government introduced the new Na tional Planning Policy Framework, a major shakeup of the planning laws aimed at encouraging the building of more new homes. The number of new homes completed has fallen far short of what is required for most of the last decade and planning restrictions are seen as one of the main constraints on supply.
Has the legislation achieved its objectives or has it created new problems?
Well many communities will have breathed a sigh of relief that they are not having large scale devel opments imposed on them by distant politicians. On the downside, there is evidence that some local councils have simply failed to produce a plan or submitted plans that call for minimal levels of build The reform had three main points. Firstly, the legis ing in a bid to appease Nimby voters. The number lation was greatly simplified so it runs to around 50 of legal challenges by planning inspectors against pages instead of several hundred. Secondly, na inadequate local plans doubled last year. tional and regional housebuilding targets were However, the strongest sign that the reforms are scrapped and replaced with a local framework, so working is that in the year up to September 2014 decisions on how many houses to build and where planning permission to build 240,000 homes was to put them are made primarily by district councils. granted, the highest since 2007 and 80,000 more Most importantly, the guiding principle of the new than in 2011. Even then, not all permissions will legislation is a "presumption in favour of sustain result in a completed home but it is a very encour able development." Sustainable is defined as not aging sign. But, consider this: only 140,000 homes impacting negatively on future generations. In ef were completed in the last financial year; the plan fect, providing that the proposed development will ning system may be working but the developers not a have a detrimental impact and it is in accor are still not building enough houses. dance with the local plan developed by the council, it should be approved. 14
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Dated Events (Mar15)_Layout 1 27/02/2015 11:09 Page 1
MARCH EVENTS
Local Events March into April 2015 18
Courtwoods Mother’s Day Tea Party Fundraising Event Sun 8th March, 12pm-4pm Courtwood Car Services, Penfield Estate, Lancaster Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1AP. This charity open day will be held in support of DASH (Disablement Association Hillingdon). Special guests include the Deputy Mayor Councillor George Cooper and Deputy Mayoress Councillor Judith Cooper. There will be children’s activities and lots of family fun, fab raffle prizes and refreshments on sale.
The Inlands Waterways Association Tues 10th March, 7.30pm Hillingdon Canal Club (HCC), Waterloo Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX. (opposite the General Elliott pub) Speaker Athena Beckett on 'Buckinghamshire Canal Society' Email Lucy Smith on middlesex. socials@waterways.org.uk. KLOS Musical Theatre presents 'When The Lights Go On Again' 11th-14th March Winston Churchill Theatre Pinn Way, Ruislip, HA4 7QL. Come along to KLOS Musical Theatre's performance and enjoy all your favourite World War Two songs such as 'The White Cliffs Of Dover', 'We'll Meet Again' and 'The Lambeth Walk'. Finally, rejoice with the cast as VE day arrives! For tickets email: boxoffice@KLOS musicaltheatre.co.uk or call 0208 2072340 or 07539 025 211.
HUBB Business Breakfast Event Thu 12th March, 8am-9am Bay Lodge, 36 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1PH. Networking with local professionals and in partnership with the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce. ‘How to improve your business’ – Interactive Workshop with guest speaker Mark Harris from Enterprise Doctor. Who will explore the different aspects of a business which can be improved and the importance of working on the business rather than in the business. Coffee and pastries. For details and to book your place email: helen.thompson@ wardwilliams.co.uk please do circulate this invitation to your colleagues/contacts.
Quiz Night Sat 14th March Harefield Community Centre, Priory Avenue, Harefield. Come and join us - cost is £7 includes Ploughman’s. For more info/tickets please call 01895 822320. FREE Family Fun Day Sat 14th March, 2pm-4pm St Leonards Hall, Richings Park, Bucks. Sometimes we all need to get out the house, it's good if the children have somewhere for them to get together and play and even better if we can get together with our friends, have fun, meet new people AND STILL give our children the attention that they want / need over the weekend. This fun family games day is a 2 hour event, where Hart Entertainments provides a 5 section 'wave of games' flow:
DON'T MISS THE DEADLINE! If you would like us to publicise your event in our April issues contact us no later than Monday 16th March.
1) welcome warm up, getting to know each other, 2) energy busters, 3) team games, 4) equipment games 5) chillout By bringing a little something to eat, drink and share with you. We'll have a break half way to refresh and re-energise. Please note: The event is Free for all the family. By joining you agree for Hart Entertainment to film the event and use pictures and video footage for future promotions. Children cannot be left unattended. For details and tickets visit www.zoehart.co.uk or call Zoe Hart on 07747 063 149.
Pot a Plant for Mother's Day Sat 14th March, 9.30am-3.30pm Smith's Nurseries, 95 Oxford Road, New Denham, UB9 4DE. Choose a plant and pot it for Mum, ideal activity for Dads and kids the day before Mother's Day. No booking required but call for more information if required on 01895 233 844. Butterflies Table Top Sale and Community Coffee Morning Sat 21st March, 9.30am-1pm The Village Hall, Ickenham, UB10 8DG. Entry 50p, children free.
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...Well, you'll have noticed that this is no longer a 'Party in the Park' blog. What happened to PITP? In all honestly, I don't know. I do know that it got political and tangled up in red red tape; that the upcoming parish council elections complicated things even further with no two people agreeing on who was allowed to do what; and that Matt and I both came out of it wishing we hadn't bothered! Which is such a shame, because we had very much wanted to do something big for our local community, to celebrate our community. Though it looks like it wasn't to be, not this year, unless there's some eleventh hour turnaround. I'd really like to get some kind of local projects off the ground in the next 12 months, via whatever means become an option, but for now, I'll just continue writing about the main drive behind Party in the Park in the first place – community. The “traditional old community” has very much disappeared in Great Britain over the last few dec ades. Personally, I'm nearly always on the canal, where the community and it's values can be said to be similar to that of “mainstream” communities forty or fifty years ago. But in terms of village and town communities, they're nothing like the arche typal “good old days”. On many housing estates nowadays, people famously don't even know who lives next door to them – and are likely scared to say “hello” for fear of getting a punch in the face in return! But Iver for all of it's faults still does still have somewhat of a community feel intact, in vari ous ways. Maybe it's because much of it is still comparatively rural. Maybe it's because it still does have it's school and it's old pub and, whether you be a church goer or not, the village church as tra ditional staples in the local community. Maybe it's because the area has a rich history – stretching back longer and more abundant than many at first realise. Or maybe it's just about it's people, it's wide and varied selection of characters. Turn off your EastMoaners or Depressionation Street, the local area is a living soap opera. And one that doesn't see it's cast feel obliged to do a painful 'comedy' song each time 'Children in Need' comes around, either! There are local issues and local points of together ness and dispute and celebration that still bring people together. Every time the parish council elections come up, for example, there's naturally more squabbling than two hyperactive children in a sweet shop. Every time there's another incident with the loathed HGVs in the High Street such as
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a couple of weeks ago when two met each other head on in a narrow stretch of the road, and both refused to budge for over half an hour the com munity is out in force to say how we've “had enough” (and maybe ask the question if they can afford to waste half an hour like that, why they “have to” roar through our tiny village at top speed at other times!!) Whatever happens 'round here, there is a community, an identity. Although the Party in the Park fiasco seems to have fallen on it's face, for now at least, I really am eager to ex plore new ways to develop community projects and events to bring people together. This last Saturday I went to watch Matt and vari ous other locals in the annual Iver Heath Drama Club pantomime, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood. I used to be in these productions many years ago (if you search on the club page there is, sadly, still a photo or two of me in a purple wig and dress. And that was before I put my costume on!) and still like to support them. Nowadays it's Matt wearing the dress and wig – maybe it's just that awkward phase he's going through! There's some thing comforting about tradition, bringing local
people together, year after year, for a show. The same reassuringly familiar faces, year after year. With the same old jokes, year after year! (I do miss those days of being involved in those things, actu ally). But suffice to say, if you get the show on a good night, it's just as entertaining as any big Lon don show. And you get relevant jokes about The Black Horse and roadworks in the High Street, too! We're in muddy, overcast Winter at the moment, as of writing this. On the local Facebook Community & Memories group (that I started on a whim a couple of years ago and was amazed by the response), I've recently suggested doing regular photo compe titions, to try and capture some of the sights and moments in the area. (This month's first topic is “Waiting for Spring”). Dunno quite what entries we'll get maybe a few moody shots of some dustbins and something 'orrible a dog did in the park. We'll see. Talking of photos and tradition, I was excited re cently when a bit of old rail and a tunnel opening was uncovered during a tidy up on the Slough Arm of the canal, which, it is thought, was once been used to cart bricks from the onceadjoining brick fields, down to be loaded up onto barges. Part of what I work on when I'm on the Floating Class room, Elsdale II, is 'London's Foundations', an educational project that works with local schools and communities about the many brickfields that were once in the area, and how the canal was used to transport bricks from them up to London. So naturally I found this discovery – basically a bit of knackered old iron and an opening in the bank where you might expect to find a few old tyres and maybe a bit of an old skeleton – to be fascinating, and the next time I went along the Arm (which I do very frequently) I even posed for a flippin' photo graph with the discovery. Takes all sorts, I sup
pose! But even so, even if it may not be the most glamorous of finds, it does highlight that varied history that's tucked away around here. A history that lit up for me even more when, slightly further along the Arm and wandering off of the beaten track, I discovered a load of Victorian pottery and stoneware. Much of the land by the Slough Arm was at one time basically used as Victorian rubbish dumps, with rubbish brought back out of London on the canal to backfill the land where the clay had been dug out for bricks. One man's rubbish... is another man's blog. Or something. How did I get onto this subject originally? ...Oh yeah, community I'm hoping to arrange another local community Elsdale trip come slightly better weather, after so many people have enquired about one. I'll have to ask permission to have it , quite what form it shall take (London's Foundations or one of the other projects, such as the new Growing Minds cooking project) or whatever small fee may be involved is yet to be seen. In the meantime, my daily local adventures (ahem, if you can call them that) with sights and finds all around this neck of the woods, can be found on my Instagram account. Or indeed use the Facebook community and memories group to share local photos and discus sion, past and present. (Links for both are below). Well, until I next sit using the free wifi in Uxbridge library and hurriedly churn out a blog just before deadline, I shall bid you farewell and return to searching through mud and brambles for 100 year old rubbish. Boy what a fun person I am. instagram.com/pj_gathergood facebook.com/groups/ivermemories/ (or search “Ivers and Langley Community & Memories”) email pjgathergood@hotmail.com
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Recruiting NOW Foster carers adopters
and needed
Find out more at our information events Thursday 12 March, 10am to 12 midday Tuesday 24 March, 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 23
Home & Interiors
Look Back In Nostalgia
By Katherine Sorrell
paint, or else push the boat out and go for floral wallpaper. A hand-block printed effect, in a palette of light, bright and cheery colours, is particularly effective. For bathrooms and kitchens, painted tongue and groove panelling or white beveledged tiles (laid in a brick bond pattern) work especially well.
Do you yearn for the charming styles of the past? For the pretty patterns and jolly colours, the homemade accessories, the simple good looks that made a home really homely? Then read on for interiors expert Katherine Sorrell’s look at nostalgic style. Take a look at your floors for a first step towards nostalgic style. Plain or painted wooden boards are ideal, with flatwoven rugs for extra warmth where necessary, though neutral carpets or naturalfibre coverings are a good alternative, while you could opt for stone tiles in hallways or kitchens. On the walls, you might keep things plain and simple with while or off-white 24
Furniture can be really inexpensive –you might pick something up at a local auction or even a second-hand shop for next to nothing. Look for sturdy, useful pieces in a timeless style, made from pine, oak or Lloyd Loom. Anything too dark or heavy looking can be painted – though make sure it is not too massive and overbearing in the room. Don’t expect perfection: knocked corners or faded upholstery may even enhance the overall look, while mismatching pieces aren’t too much of a problem provided they fit into the overall aesthetic. Textiles are often the key to getting nostalgic style just right. Think plain fabrics combined with ticking stripes, gingham, spots and florals – spriggy or else big, blowsy blooms. Don’t aim for over-coordination; instead, a range of complementary colours and patterns gives a suitably eclectic effect. Natural fabrics (such as cotton, linen and wool) are nicest, in a range of weights and effects, such as tweed, canvas, muslin or sateen. Remnants, if you’re good with a sewing machine, can be run up into all sorts of lovely items. Window
treatments, for example, are a doddle – just a pair of gathered curtains – while leftovers can quickly be made into cushion covers. Patchwork quilts, of course, are simply perfect in the bedroom, as are Welsh blankets and satin eiderdowns, while knitting and crochet (especially granny squares) are essential ingredients in virtually any room. Displays of pretty accessories can be the making of this look, whether it’s spongeprinted ceramics, pressed glass, blue-and-white crockery or enamelware. Modern reproductions are easy to find and not expensive, but more fun can be had in seeking out just the right original bits and bobs, from storage jars to aprons, cut-glass jugs to wooden kitchen utensils, whether it’s at a vintage fair, charity shops or your local car boot sale. Think dressers piled with pretty crockery, a stack of biscuit tins on a shelf or laceedged towels in the bathroom. Add woven baskets, metal buckets, vintage milk bottles, bristle brushes, some lengths of bunting, even old books such as orange Penguin classics or Ladybird children’s stories; and finish things off with some informal arrangements of native flowers tucked into jam jars or informal jugs or vases. The result? You have transformed yesterday’s pleasures into today’s delightful treasures. Main Image - A selection of crockery from Cath Kidston’s spring 2015 ranges, tel 08450 262 440; www.cathkidston.co.uk.
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Beauty
Injectable Treatments
Wrinkle Removal: The Results & the Risks
by Alison Runham
allergic reaction. While this may be limited to itching, allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis, so ensure you’re confident that the therapist would know how to deal with this if it occurs.
You moisturise, tone, exfoliate, eat a healthy diet and stay out of the sun. You don’t smoke. But still those pesky wrinkles gradually gain ground. If you want to keep them at bay a little longer, it’s time to let the professionals take charge. Available treatments can significantly reduce telltale signs of ageing, and whilst the effect won’t be as dramatic as cosmetic surgery, for many it’s enough to give them a ‘lift’ and a fresher appearance.
Picking Your Therapist
Recommendations are great, but always check the qualifications and experience of any therapist. Stay safe: • Therapists performing nonsurgical cosmetic procedures don’t require medical qualifications and aren’t overseen by the Care Quality Commission, but many procedures do carry risks and should only be carried out by someone highly trained. The Treatments You 26
Can Trust (TYCT) register, backed by the Department of Health, will tell you if the treatment provider is appropriately qualified. • Injectable cosmetic treatments (e.g. Botox, Restylane) should only be performed by an appropriately trained doctor, dermatologist, dentist or registered nurse within a clinical setting. Check that they are registered with the appropriate professional body: doctors or dermatologists, the General Medical Council (GMC); dentists, the General Dental Council (GDC); nurses the Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC). • See your doctor before undergoing injectable treatments. Botox® is a prescription-only treatment that shouldn’t be undertaken without a review of your medical history. All the treatments below have one risk in common:
Botox® Botox® contains a toxin - Botulinum toxin A – which relaxes the muscle underneath the wrinkle, smoothing it out. Several small injections are usually given and it’s particularly popular for brow lines. Pros: The effects usually last for several months. Cons: You may have flu-like symptoms for a day or so, and some bruising. The results can take up to a fortnight to become evident and repeat treatments are needed to maintain your new look, although some people develop a resistance the treatment. Treated areas may be droopy for a while, and blurred vision can occur if the area around the eyes is treated. Dermal fillers Dermal filler is the general term for a variety of chemicals (e.g. hyaluronic acid and collagen) that are injected either to fill wrinkles or plump up your lips. Although it’s not a legal requirement for these to be administered by a medical professional, it’s highly recommended (a look at the ‘cons’ below will explain why). Some fillers are more permanent than others, and certain treatments may require a local anaesthetic first. They are usually given as a series of small injections, and the treated
area is massaged. Pros: Permanent fillers give long-lasting results. Cons: The results can sometimes be asymmetrical or lumpy, or the filler can drift away from the injection site – this may need surgical repair. The treated area is likely to be swollen and tender for a while, and you may experience itching and bruising. In the worst case scenario, dermal fillers can cause necrosis (death of the surrounding tissue).
burst of light from a laser or pulsed diode light is used to remove the skin’s outer cells layer by layer. Pros: May remove blemishes and acne scars too. Effects are usually long lasting (up to several years). Cons: Itching is common and your skin will dry and begin to peel after a few days. Facial redness may last for months. Chemical peels. A variety of chemicals can be used to ‘burn’ or peel away the top layer of old or dead skin cells. Fruit and glycolic acid peels have a limited effect but intensive peels that use more aggressive chemicals (e.g. salicylic acid and trichloroacetic acid) penetrate deeper into the skin, giving more noticeable results. Pros: Younger looking skin without the risk of injections. Deep peels are a one-off, longlasting treatment. Cons: Deeper peels can
be uncomfortable and the likelihood of scarring and changes in skin pigmentation are increased. A sedative and/or local anaesthetic may be needed. Microdermabrasion Microdermabrasion or ‘particle resurfacing’ uses fine abrasive crystals to remove the outer layer of skin cells. A vacuum device is used simultaneously to remove dead skin cells as they are ‘sanded’ off. Pros: Usually produces noticeable results and may remove blemishes too. Cons: Can cause facial redness for several hours, and some slight bruising. It may cause scarring and permanent pigmentation changes. A course of treatments gives the best result. Remember: Always tell your therapist about any sensitivities, allergies or medical conditions before you start treatment.
Resurfacing Treatments All the treatments below aim, in essence, to damage the outer layer of skin - removing dead and aging skin cells, forcing the body to produce more collagen, and stimulating new growth to repair the damage. If you’re a cold sore sufferer, they may trigger an outbreak. Laser/light resurfacing This is also known as a ‘laser peel’ or ‘labrasion’. A pulsating
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Designer Life (Jan15)_Layout 1 24/02/2015 14:14 Page 1
Spring Cleaning Life HOME, EMOTIONS & MIND
www.designerlife.co.uk neelam@designerlife.co.uk
Neelam Challoner is one of UK’s leading Life coaches, specialising in Re-designing women’s lives and is the founder and owner of Designer life Coaching and the Author of ‘Successful but Incomplete’. Neelam has coached hundreds of people nationally and internationally since 2004. With over 15 years experience in leadership, she has a flair for getting the best out of people. Her clients range from professionals, high net worth individuals, and solo business owners, to unemployed, single parents and women who have suffered domestic abuse. She has empowered and coached both privately and in the public sector pan London and in the Hillingdon Borough and is relentless on her mission to inspire and motivate people to release their potential and live a ‘Designer life’.
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THERE is a saying that your environment reflects your mind. Or, the state of your home, reflects the state of your mind. I am not sure how true that is for people in general, I think it’s best you decide for yourself. Look at how similar your mind is to how you keep your home or immediate working environment and conclude if indeed there is a similarity. For me, I actually do think there is truth in it; for example, I have a relatively clean, organised home, my main affairs are in order, but I do have paperwork that needs filing or ‘actioning’, cupboards that need organising and the odd pile of ‘stuff’ that sits there for weeks or even months that needs my attention. When I consider my mind or emotions, I am balanced, happy at peace, but there are times when I feel overwhelmed, a little stressed when I need to get something done, and often this may come from my lack of organisation or the ‘pile’ that wasn’t dealt with now needs dealing with because I have to now action a matter that was previously left undone. This is where an element of stress comes in. There are other things we inherit in our mind, life and emotions, hurts, pain, anger and this can end up effecting our environment. As we enter a new season, this is an opportune time to spring clean your mind, emotions and home. Often things left undone can become barriers to our personal joy, inner peace and progression. As I write this article I plan to also take a spoon of my own medicine and have a spring clean! Steps to Spring Cleaning 1. Make a list of all the things you have been putting up with; people, things, unfinished business, habits, house chaos, untidy corners, emotions or anything or anyone that is toxic etc. Next to each item put a date next to it on which you are going to tackle it. 2. Pop these activities and dates into your diary or calendar giving yourself a good amount of time to tackle each one successfully. If some tasks take more than one occasion or needs to be dealt with over a period of time, pop it in your diary as a series of actions for you to deal with sequentially. 3. Now, write down all the reasons why these things have been negative or held you back. What have been the adverse consequences of those things you have listed? 4. What positive impact would it have on your life, mind and emotions If you tackled each one, or if they were eliminated from your life? Write down how you would feel, be or think if they were now not an issue? 5. Get family involved if need be; get their ‘buy in’ make a plan together and stick to it. 6. If you are harbouring unforgiveness or negative feelings towards a person or persons even if from years ago, then find a way to forgive them. Let go and move on. It doesn’t mean you condone what they have done, but letting go and forgiving is one the biggest detoxes a person can do. 7. Spring cleaning is very therapeutic and satisfying, go round your home and schedule in a big spring clean; from dry-cleaning, duvet/pillows, washing windows, the odd DIY job, steam cleaning the carpet and moving furniture around for a different feel, finishing off with some fresh flowers 8. Once your plan has been written, put it somewhere you can see it and keep an eye on your progress. Before you know it, you will have de cluttered and detoxed and spring cleaned every ‘cobweb’ that has been ‘getting under your skin’.
r l
Amazing Dentures Eat, Talk, Smile
We can help you live life to the full once again with our beautiful, tailor made dentures. Andrew Dougan is a highly qualified Clinical Dental Technician who has been dedicated to bespoke denture creations since 1989.
• True life teeth & latest materials • Repairs & alterations • Cosmetic denture enhancements • Denture problem solving • FREE car park
For honest, friendly advice or to book a FREE consultation call
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17 Straight Bit, Flackwell Heath, Bucks HP10 9LS Andrew Dougan Dip CDT RCS (ENG) RDT GDC No. 162175
www.denture-world.co.uk
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GNH_in&around_dps_March2015_Layout 1 11/02/2015 13:42 Page 1
holidays
In and Around
QUOTE: LQ5-IA
Call 01895 83 33 33 for bookings and information Holidays offered by GN Holidays & Voyages Higher Denham ABTA NoY0291 •ATOL 9362
River Cruise www.gnvoyages.co.uk Coach Breaks www.gnholidays.com Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays
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Three Queens Across the Mersey Celebrating Cunard’s 175th Anniversary 3 Days Half Board, £169pp • Departs 24 May, 2015 Cunard’s three Ocean Queens will sail into the River Mersey for a spectacular celebration of the company’s 175th anniversary. The Elizabeth, Mary and Victoria ships will assemble in front of Liverpool’s famous Three Graces at the
city’s Pier Head. We will also visit the Roman city of Chester INCLUDED: 2 nights stay at the Days Inn, Liverpool, sharing a twin/doublebedded room • 2 dinners and 2 breakfasts • Coach travel and excursions
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Packed with ideas for Great Getaways
2015 Coach Holidays & Great Days Out
www.gnholidays.com
2015 Coach Holidays & Great Days Out
☎01895 83 33 33
Call for your copy
Departing from *Greenford, Harrow Ruislip, Uxbridge, Sloug h Maidenhead & *Staines
*Note: Due to drivers hours restriction s our day tours are not available from Greenford or Staines
Published: 26 January , 2015
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Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough QUOTE: SB4-IA
QUOTE: SP3-IA
y
e
A VERY HIGH TEA!! SPINNAKER TOWER, GUNWHARF QUAYS & HARBOUR CRUISE
ISLE OF WIGHT EXPLORER
Great Day Out, £69pp
5 Days Half Board, £269pp
Departures: 26 Mar, 7 May, 2 July & 10 Sept, 2015
Departs Monday 13 April, 2015
INCLUDED: 45-minute Portsmouth Harbour Cruise
INCLUDED: 4 nights accommodation sharing an en-
• High Tea with a glass of Prosecco at the Café in the
suite twin/double room at the Shanklin Beach Hotel -
Clouds - 105 metres up Spinnaker Tower • Free time in
no single room supplement • 4 breakfasts and 4
Gunwharf Quays • Return coach travel
dinners • Coach travel and excursions
QUOTE: BB4-IA
QUOTE: DR8-IA
BRIGHTON & THE BLUEBELL LINE STEAM & CREAM
DARTMOUTH ROYAL REGATTA & SOUTH DEVON
Great Day Out, £59pp
4 Days Half Board, £249pp
Departures: 16 Apr, 9 July & 3 Sept, 2015 INCLUDED: 11⁄2 hour steam train ride on the Bluebell Line with a Cream Tea • Free time in Brighton • Return coach travel
Departs Friday 28 August, 2015 INCLUDED: 3 nights accommodation sharing an ensuite twin/double room at the Preston Sands Hotel, Paignton • 3 breakfasts and 3 dinners • Excursions take in Dartmouth and the Royal Regatta, Torbay, Torquay and Brixham • Coach travel and excursions 31
Health
Quit While You’re Ahead
By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk
doesn’t eliminate risk - and we now know that carcinogens and irritants adhere to hair, clothing, furniture, objects and floors in a room, putting babies at the chewing, crawling stage at risk. • You’ll save money and smell more pleasant.
March 14th is National No Smoking Day and there is everincreasing evidence about the damage smoking can do to you: • The health problems: cancers (lung, larynx, lips, tongue, throat, oesophagus, stomach, kidneys, bladder, pancreas, testicles, cervix), emphysema, angina, heart attack, heart disease, stroke, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, pleurisy, liver damage, high blood pressure, circulation problems and gangrene leading to amputation, hair loss, hearing loss, glue ear, eye irritation, cataracts, gum disease, blindness, loss of sense of smell, osteoporosis, impotence, deformed or low mobility sperm, reduced fertility, miscarriage, low birthweight babies and premature aging. • You risk causing all these diseases in those you love. Smoking around them increases their risk of lung cancer by 24% and heart disease by 25%. Children’s under-developed immune systems and faster breathing make them particularly vulnerable. Smoke toxins linger in a smoker’s breath and for two hours in the air, so smoking in another room 32
Helping You Quit Withdrawal symptoms such as agitation, irritability, insomnia, headache, depression, difficulty concentrating, dizziness and constipation usually peak 24 hours after your last cigarette, before easing off over 2-4 weeks. Ultimately, like any drug addict, smokers smoke not to feel better but to feel normal. That’s why you may need support. Counselling/Addiction Groups Local advisers from the NHS Stop Smoking Service can offer support, and you’re four times more likely to quit with their help. Visit http://www.nhs.uk/ smokefree/help-and-advice/localsupport-services-helplines or ask your GP. Nicotine Replacement Therapy NRT can help you defeat nicotine addiction gradually, without those other toxic cigarette ingredients: benzene and acetone (solvents); cadmium (used in batteries); cyanide and arsenic (well-known poisons); formaldehyde (dead body preserver); tar; ammonia; shellac and carbon monoxide (which sticks to your blood, robbing you of oxygen and straining your heart). NRT can greatly increase your chances of quitting smoking successfully and there are a range of products available on prescription or to buy. Some can be combined for your ideal dose and coverage.
• Patches: release a steady dose of nicotine into your bloodstream. They’re very discreet and come in a range of doses and types. • Gum: gives a burst of nicotine when you are craving a cigarette. • Lozenges and soluble sublingual tablets (microtabs which dissolve under the tongue). • Inhalators: Similar to a cigarette, they’re ideal if you find the habit of holding a cigarette hard to break. • Nasal sprays: usually best suited to heavy smokers, they rapidly deliver a strong dose of nicotine. Research suggests they may be the most effective type of NRT. Other Medication These prescription-only medications are only available to over-18s and aren’t suitable for everyone. Ensure your doctor is aware of your medical history, current mental or physical problems and medications. They don’t contain nicotine but help you overcome addiction. • Zyban (Bupropion Hydrochloride): Taken 1-2 weeks before you plan to quit and continued for around 2 months, it helps to relieve withdrawal symptoms. • Champix (Varenicline): also started 1-2 weeks before your planned quit date and continued for around 10 weeks. It reduces nicotine cravings and also decreases the ‘hit’ when you do have a cigarette. So now you know your options, why not try to make March 14th YOUR No Smoking Day? Good luck!
Free mini consultations for cosmetic and bariatric surgery
Wednesday 29 April 2015
6.30pm - 8.30pm (by appointment only) Spire Thames Valley Hospital Wexham Street, Wexham, Bucks, SL3 6NH
01753 468 168
info@spirethamesvalley.com www.spirethamesvalley.com
“It gives you more confidence and a new lease on life.”
Facelift and fat transfer patient
Mini consultations are an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about cosmetic surgery and are not a formal out-patient consultation. If you wish to proceed to surgery, a full out-patient consultation will be required. 33
Zoe Hart FP+ (Mar15)_Layout 1 26/02/2015 12:31 Page 1
Age appropriate music Every parents minefield? any more! Not
ZOE HART an international club DJ since 1999, turned Childrens Entertainer in 2012.
Hi, I’m Zoe and I run a local children’s disco service.
Come along to Hart Entertainments FREE FAMILY GAMES EVENT on Saturday 14th March, 2-4pm at St Leonards Church Hall.
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!
Call Zoe on 07747 063149 for details and to book your family’s place.
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.
www.zoehart.co.uk - 07747 063 149
THE NIGHT – Avicii
OUTLINES – Mike Mago & Dragonette
He said “One day you’ll leave this world behind, So live a life you will remember.” Wise words, and gets the kids bouncing AGE big time. 0+
Kids burst into dance when I put this on. Nice B line.
AGE
6+
I LOVED YOU Blonde featuring Melisa Steel SUGAR - Maroon 5 Sugar yes please! The little ones won’t get what it’s about, they just like sugar. It’s got the other ‘s’ word in it too though.
Commercial house not at it’s best. Nothing inappropriate here though.
AGE
6+
AGE
16+ TAKE ME TO CHURCH – Hozier
L.A. LOVE (LA,LA) - Fergie Female vocalist of the Black Eyed Peas, this track is fine if you like Hip-Hop-Rap, just cut the last 20 seconds where it’s about the AGE promotion of ‘Cali’ (Cannibis). 10+
The song is about asserting yourself and reclaiming your humanity through an act of love. Me ‘n’ the kids love it, but it’s not AGE party music.
6+
LIPS ARE MOVIN – Meghan Trainor Another lovely track from Meghan, more innuendo than a fruit bowl.
This month’s favourite BLAME IT ON ME – George Ezra Hungarian English 21 year old, lives in Bristol, both his parents are teachers. Very unique voice. Lovely song. He’s definitely AGE one to watch. 0+
SAY SOMETHING - Karen Harding "If you want to say something, say it now." Good point. We could all do with better communication.
AGE
0+
AGE
7+
WRAPPED UP – Olly Murs featuring Travie McCoy Fun & bouncy track with sexual inference spoken so fast they won’t catch it.
AGE
5+
This months top pick for parents is by Joe Bonamassa – No.1 Blues billboard artist. Download for FREE now: http://jbonamassa.com/freebonamassa-album/
References: etonline.com, mtv.co.uk, Wikipedia.co.uk, azlyrics.com, whosay.com, musicinsideu.com, lyricinterpretations.com, songfacts.com.
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Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX Independent School for boys and girls aged 3 - 11
An ‘OUTSTANDING’ School
OPEN DAY
Saturday 21st March 2015 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Please telephone 01895 234371 to make an appointment Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX - www.sthelenscollege.com
35
Finance Pensions Rules are Changing: What You Need to Know By Ann Haldon www.cornerstonewebcontent.com
If you’re confused by drawdown, annuity, tax wrappers and pots, you are definitely not alone. It sometimes feels like politicians are being deliberately obtuse - why don’t they use plain English when talking about pensions so we all know where we stand on this important issue? Pensions are generally seen as the normal investment option when you start work. Although other choices are available, including property or stocks and shares, saving into a private pension does offer the following tax advantages: • The government pays tax relief on your payments • You’re not taxed on the money in your pension pot (up to certain limits) • At pension age you can withdraw a percentage of your pension as a tax-free lump sum
But what about the State Pension – won’t that provide the income I need in retirement? State Pension rules are set to change from 2016 when a weekly flat rate will be introduced. The intention is to simplify the State Pension, 36
making it fairer for all as well as easier for the government to administrate. These are some of the new rules, should you reach State Pension age on or after April 6th 2016: • The full pension amount will be a minimum of £148.40 per week (the actual amount to be decided upon in late 2015) • At least 10 qualifying years are needed to receive the new State Pension • The total number of qualifying years for eligibility has increased from 30 to 35 • Each individual will qualify for their own pension entitlement, rather than using the joint couple’s rate • There will be no means testing for pension credit entitlement • The cap on state pensions for the self-employed will be removed
Auto enrolment
Auto enrolment is new legislation that obliges employers to offer eligible employees a workplace pension. The new scheme, which was introduced in October 2012, is being rolled out to include all UK employers by February 2018. Currently, if you earn a
minimum annual salary of £10,000, are aged between 22 years and the State Pension age, and work under a contract of employment in the UK, you are entitled to automatic enrolment on a workplace pension. Your employer makes their contribution and you get tax relief on your pension payments. If you already make contributions to a workplace scheme meeting government requirements, you don’t need to be enrolled in a new scheme. If you don’t meet the eligibility criteria for automatic enrolment, you may still have the right to opt-in. Whether this is possible largely depends on your employer, and they do not have any obligation to make contributions in these instances.
New legislation regarding annuities
Until recently, when you retired you had no other option but to use your pension fund to buy an annuity. Annuities provide you with a fixed income for life, and even though the legislation has now changed, this product may still offer the most stable income for you in retirement. The 2014 Budget saw changes to pension legislation.
From 2015 you will not be forced to buy an annuity with your pension fund, but can use the money in other ways. As a general rule, people choose the ‘income drawdown’ option, an annuity, or a mixture of the two. Some finance experts advise people to buy a fixed annuity that covers projected living expenses over their remaining lifetime, spending the rest of their pension pot on products that stand a greater chance of beating inflation. As with any financial product, you need to shop around for the best deal rather than sticking with your pension provider, who may not offer you an attractive rate. There has been some talk in the media of annuity mis-selling, so you should take the time to compare various products on the market rather than
remaining ‘loyal’ to your pension company.
an annuity with a little more flexibility.
What is income drawdown?
An investment-linked annuity
Income drawdown is an alternative to buying an annuity. You buy stocks, shares and other investments and take a regular income by cashing them in over time, with 25% of each ‘drawdown’ being tax-free. This is viewed as being riskier than an annuity as investments can go up or down, but if you are not risk averse and you have a larger pension pot of £100,000 or more, the rewards can be greater. Income drawdown is a complicated option with high fees and charges, and it will not be right for everybody, but there is a middle-ground that offers the security of
There are two types of investment-linked annuity: • Unit-linked: these depend on the performance of stocks, shares and other investments • With-profits: these retain part of your return in highperforming years for use if investment performance declines Charges and fees for pension products can be high, and serve to reduce the overall value of your fund. That’s why you need the advice and guidance of a professional financial expert to cut through the jargon, clearly explain what you are buying, and tell you the true cost of the product.
37
eltze estates
Make a Move This Spring Why not make that move this Spring and talk to Eltze Estates your local family run firm who really do care and would love to help
38
eltze estates
Are you looking to Sell or Let?
Due to a high volume of Sales and Lettings we need more properties to Sell or Let. Our family run business has a wealth of local k n o w l ed g e a n d ex p e r t i s e . We o f f e r professional and evidence based Market Appraisals and tailor make our marketing campaign to suit you.
www.eltze.co.uk www.rightmove.co.uk www.zoopla.co.uk www.primelocation.com Virtual Tour E-zine magazine The Guild magazine The Property News Eye catching boards High Street window Associated London Office Mail outs to over 1150 buyers
Bob, Laurie & Mark have over 75 years of combined experience in estate agency and our team including Peter & Jo are available to help with any property related enquiry.
“See our testimonials page on www.eltze.co.uk And hear what our Customers say”
We promote and advertise your property by using a wide variety of methods to gain access to the widest possible audience of buyers & tenants to achieve the best possible sale or letting price.
01753 651652
Your professional family run business
60 High Street Iver Bucks SL0 9NG
www.eltze.co.uk
39
Golden Years
Memories of 50 Years Ago by Ted Bruning
redemption through music, and their dramatic escape from the Nazis is well-known. It’s also common knowledge that the movie and the 1959 Rodgers & Hammerstein stage musical on which it was based, played fast and loose with Maria’s memoir of the family’s career. It overdramatized and oversweetened – a string of directors actually turned the picture down as too sugary before Robert Wise (who had just won two Oscars for West Side Story) took it on.
But Maria’s best-selling 1949 memoir, The Story of the Trapp Family Singers, seems to have been just as sanitised. The Von Trapp family stars in the Sound Written after Georg’s death at of Music theatrical, pictured outside the the suggestion of a publicist, it theatre in Helen, Georgia, USA. portrays the family as political refugees who had to flee when On March 2nd 1965 the highest- Georg’s principled refusal of grossing musical film of all a commission in the German time opened in New York. Four navy antagonised Austria’s weeks later, on 29th March, it Nazi rulers. But the story is so opened in London. It went on to doctored, so full of omissions win five Oscars including Best and ambiguities, that it leaves Picture and Best Director. It was room for a very different and The Sound of Music, and it’s much darker narrative. been an evergreen for 50 years. Georg (a World War I The story of blossoming love submariner) was asked to between frosty, aristocratic help the Nazis create their Austrian widower Georg von U-boat fleet, but before Hitler’s Trapp and the free-spirited takeover of Austria in March governess of his seven 1938, not after; he rejected it children, Maria, the family’s not on principle but because his
On 6th March 1965
troupe was hitting the big time. And refusal caused the family no problems – they were even introduced to Hitler himself, who was a fan. The dramatic escape portrayed in the film never happened – they simply went off on a scheduled concert tour of America, where they got good reviews and $1,000 a show. The von Trapps departed the USA in March 1939, played some dates in Sweden, and went home. The outbreak of war found them on tour in Norway: faced either with going back to an almost certain call-up or defecting to America and keeping the troupe going, Georg opted for New York. Not so much self-sacrificing antiNazi as self-serving impresario. One could dig more dirt. But even if it were true, does it matter? Macbeth isn’t diminished as art by Shakespeare’s misrepresentation of his subject; and once you get past the sugar-coating, what really matters about the Sound of Music is the glorious Rodgers & Hammerstein score, their last and surely their best. And if your heart doesn’t swell when Julie Andrews bursts into the opening line of the title song, then you have no heart.
, Margaret Dumont, died aged 82. She was the greatest straightwoman in the history of cinema and the butt of Groucho Marx’s cruellest witticisms (“You’re fighting for this woman’s honour, which is more than she ever did!”). A trained opera singer, she became a Broadway star in the early 1920s and found herself cast in a Marx Brothers revue, The Cocoanuts, in 1925. Between 1925 and 1941 she played the blue-blooded but none-too-bright matron in six Marx Brothers movies and also starred opposite other comedy giants of the era including Abbot & Costello, Laurel & Hardy and WC Fields. 40
Happy 50th birthdays to Lembit Opik (2nd), Lawrence LlewellynBowen (11th), Mark Carney (16th), Marti Pellow (23rd), and Piers Morgan (30th). Cake and botox to you all!
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Karen Munro Careers (Mar15)_Layout 1 24/02/2015 14:03 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, Interview Skills and Networking Techniques. 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 London and the South East. Karen also facilitates workshops and offers individual coaching to Military Personnel leaving the Armed Forces at RAF Northolt and works as an Associate Career Coach and Trainer for both Right Management and SMP Solutions. Writing for a number of career focused and military resettlement magazines she regularly contributes to ‘In and Around’ every month sharing her practical experience with her local community.
MOST people fall in to their careers purely by accident. Suddenly they get to a stage in their lives when they think “How did I get here?” And “How did I end up doing this?” More often than not, it isn’t what they really wanted to do in the first place and it seems almost impossible to think about doing something else now. So they continue along the path they were on at the risk of becoming more and more dissatisfied with their own career choice. Could this be you? What is important to remember, is YOU choose your career direction – it is not made for you it is created by you. Everything you have done until this very moment, whether it has been a conscious or unconscious decision, has been your decision. The biggest and bravest decision to make now is whether to continue on this path or take a different direction. To find out if you are doing the right job, ask yourself these 3 simple questions: 1. If all jobs paid the same, what job would I do? 2. If I knew I couldn’t fail, what job would I do? 3. If I was given a magic wand and could create the job of my dreams, what would it be? What do your answers say to you? If you are doing a job that really interests, motivates and inspires you, not only will you enjoy it and feel happier than you ever have, but you will ultimately become a success! Studies show that success does not necessarily translate in to financial reward (though it’s always nice!) but is about doing something you enjoy, that gives you a sense of satisfaction and personal reward. 42
If your answers are indicating you are not doing something you want to do and you would like to do something different, well, why not start exploring what that might look like and think about how you can achieve it? Career Coaching is about helping people to explore their transferable skills and identify what motivates them. It’s about exploring all the options and eliminating many of the barriers preventing them from realising their career potential. Here’s another little exercise you can try for yourself: 1. Draw a line on a piece of paper with your date of birth at the start and your estimated year of death (without getting morbid!) at the end. You have now created your ‘personal life line’. 2. Now mark an ‘X’ to show where you are now. How far along the line is the ‘X’? Consider, what you have achieved until now and think about how much time has passed? What jobs have you done? What did you enjoy and what were your successes? 3. Next, look at what remains on the right of the ‘X’. Ask yourself, what do you want to achieve? How much time do you have to achieve that? If your earlier answers to the 3 questions indicated you’re not doing a job that really makes you happy, then perhaps it’s time to start thinking about what you would like to do and how you might be able to achieve it. Career Coaching is not an overnight fix, and magic wands are in short supply. However, if you really want to change - you can. You are in control of your own career and ultimately you can always change direction. “If you do not change the direction in which you are going, you will end up where you are headed.” Confucius
Karen
“unlocking your career potential”
43
And Another
Thing...
by Tom Hughes
Where to take my beloved for a much needed break? Tenerife for some early sun? Or how about springtime in Paris? Or maybe somewhere nearer home....? “Southport? In March? But Tom, I thought we were going to Paris?” “Did you know Southport’s Lord Street is the inspiration for the boulevards of most romantic city in the world?” “Oh, for a horrible minute I thought you meant we were going to -” “Southport, that’s right. We can take Olly on the beach. Go for a stroll along Southport Pier?” “You know how to spoil a girl, don’t you?” “Come on, grab your coat, better take an extra layer, best take an umbrella too.” “Anything else?” “A flask of Bovril? Oh and a woolly hat.” In no time at all the Mondeo Ghia was within striking distance of the classiest seaside town north of Liverpool (and south of 44
Blackpool). I parked up on the coast road and after leaping acrobatically to catch my airborne umbrella, shouted over to Sarah.
alley and get our fortune told.”
“Have you got any change for the machine?”
Refusing to be dissuaded, I popped my head through the beads hanging across the door and sat down in Madame Sylvia’s bijou front parlour, with Olly sat quietly on my knee. She took my hand in hers which was of course the signal for me to start giggling.
“What!? The wind, I can’t-” She shook her head, no change. No matter we could pay via mobile phone. Thirty minutes later I was in the newsagents changing a five pound note. “You can pay by mobile mate.” “Unfortunately I failed my computer programming Alevel, so can I have five pound coins please?” At last, we were ready to explore. “So you see, the design of this street, with its wide thoroughfare, is just like the boulevards of Paris. It is said that Napoleon III lodged just off Lord Street, in 1834 I believe, and that gave him the idea-” “Tom, as fascinating as this is, can we just get out of the rain?” “Here let’s go down this side
“I’ll tell you what Tom, you go and get your fortune told, I’m going into Russell & Bromleys.”
“I would say that you are quite a happy-go-lucky person. Always smiling.” “Well fancy you knowing that?” I beamed. “Now, you haven’t got a younger brother have you?” “No.” “Older sister?” “No. I have a younger sister and an older brother.” “Yes I thought so.” Well done Madame Sylvia, right on the money again! Leaving Madame Sylvia’s armed with the knowledge that my fortune was on its way, I met Sarah coming out of the shoe shop.
Eventually, we battled our way across the coast road and found our way to Southport Pier. “Tom look at it, it’s sheeting down.”
We decided to sit out the storm with a restorative cuppa. Unfortunately, a stroppy little man in a hi-viz jacket and moustache barred our way. “Sorry sir, no dogs in the cafe.”
to head home. I made a dash for the train but it had already gone.
“It’s OK darling worry not, we can take the train.”
And there, coming into the tiny station on the shortest bit of track known to man, was a real live proper train. “Is this the right train for the end of Southport Pier?”
The exhausted driver looked at me like he hadn’t heard that joke for hours. “Ninety pence please.” At the other end of this pile of Victorian Iron we discovered a seedy amusement arcade and tatty cafe which had been refurbished completely and replaced with, er, a tatty cafe and seedy amusement arcade.
We all looked down at Olly, now soaked and shivering with the cold. “It’s OK, he’s a guide dog.” The little Jobsworth’s eyes narrowed.
“Well where’s his harness and tunic?”
“Blast! What time is the next one?” “I’m not sure but I think I can see it now, you know that one there, at other end of this pier?” We returned to our Mondeo Ghia only to find a nice shiny yellow parking ticket stuck onto the windscreen. “I thought you bought one?”
“It’s his day off.”
“I thought you paid by mobile?”
“His day off?”
And the moral of this story? When a fortune teller says it’s your lucky day to go and buy a ticket, always follow her advice.
“Yes. Do you wear that tunic on your day off?” “Er, no.” “Well neither does he, now excuse us.” After our greasy Eccles cake and stewed tea we decided
Follow Tom’s escapades at groomsdaybook.com Twitter @groomsdaybook
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GNH_in&around_dps_March2015_Layout 1 11/02/2015 13:42 Page 1
holidays
In and Around
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Call 01895 83 33 33 for bookings and information Holidays offered by GN Holidays & Voyages Higher Denham ABTA NoY0291 •ATOL 9362
River Cruise www.gnvoyages.co.uk Coach Breaks www.gnholidays.com Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays
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Three Queens Across the Mersey Celebrating Cunard’s 175th Anniversary 3 Days Half Board, £169pp • Departs 24 May, 2015 Cunard’s three Ocean Queens will sail into the River Mersey for a spectacular celebration of the company’s 175th anniversary. The Elizabeth, Mary and Victoria ships will assemble in front of Liverpool’s famous Three Graces at the
city’s Pier Head. We will also visit the Roman city of Chester INCLUDED: 2 nights stay at the Days Inn, Liverpool, sharing a twin/doublebedded room • 2 dinners and 2 breakfasts • Coach travel and excursions
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*Note: Due to drivers hours restriction s our day tours are not available from Greenford or Staines
Published: 26 January , 2015
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Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough QUOTE: SB4-IA
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A VERY HIGH TEA!! SPINNAKER TOWER, GUNWHARF QUAYS & HARBOUR CRUISE
ISLE OF WIGHT EXPLORER
Great Day Out, £69pp
5 Days Half Board, £269pp
Departures: 26 Mar, 7 May, 2 July & 10 Sept, 2015
Departs Monday 13 April, 2015
INCLUDED: 45-minute Portsmouth Harbour Cruise
INCLUDED: 4 nights accommodation sharing an en-
• High Tea with a glass of Prosecco at the Café in the
suite twin/double room at the Shanklin Beach Hotel -
Clouds - 105 metres up Spinnaker Tower • Free time in
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BRIGHTON & THE BLUEBELL LINE STEAM & CREAM
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Great Day Out, £59pp
4 Days Half Board, £249pp
Departures: 16 Apr, 9 July & 3 Sept, 2015 INCLUDED: 11⁄2 hour steam train ride on the Bluebell Line with a Cream Tea • Free time in Brighton • Return coach travel
Departs Friday 28 August, 2015 INCLUDED: 3 nights accommodation sharing an ensuite twin/double room at the Preston Sands Hotel, Paignton • 3 breakfasts and 3 dinners • Excursions take in Dartmouth and the Royal Regatta, Torbay, Torquay and Brixham • Coach travel and excursions 47
Dated Events (Mar15)_Layout 1 27/02/2015 11:09 Page 2
MARCH EVENTS
Local Park & Events March into April continued 48
Harrow Harmony Spring Concert Sat 21st March, 6.45pm for 7.30pm St John’s United Reformed Church, Hallowell Road, Northwood, HA6 1DN. Celebrating their 15th Anniversary year, Harrow harmony present their Spring Concert with the premiere of a newly-comissioned work by Philip Lawson and soloist Micheila Brigginshaw on piano. Tickets £12, under 18’s £6, price includes buffet supper, contact 020 8861 4017 or boxoffice@harrowharmony.co.uk. See www.harrowharmony.co.uk for more details.
warming party, to which the other two couples have been invited. All three preparation are doomed to disaster, by the martial problems of Trevor and Susannah who descend on each couple in turn, leaving chaos in their wake. For tickets contact 01895 253346 or email: janscurr@hotmail.com. Tickets cost £9.50 with concessions on Thursday evening only at £7.50.
Live Jazz with Enrico Tomasso and Roy Williams Sat 21st March, 7.30pm The Village Hall, Ickenham, UB10 8DG. Tomasso and Williams perform the music of Clark Terry & Bob Brookmeyer. Featuring an All Star rhythm section comprising Christian Vaughan, pno; Dave Green, bass & Steve Brown, drums. Rico is considered one of the top jazz trumpeters on the scene and has won best trumpet category in the British Jazz Awards 2 years in a row. A poplular figure at many of the European festivals and clubs, he has an exciting presence and lively personality on stage, with his command of the instrument and stylistic invention placing him amongst the top echelon. Roy's professional musical career has now spanned 7 decades, having made his name as the regular trombonist with the Alex Welsh Band from 1965 to 1978. In addition he has worked with many of the greats from both sides of the pond including Peanuts Hucko, Humphrey Lyttelton, Scott Hamilton, Brian Lemon and John Barnes, amongst others. The music of Clark Terry & Bob Brookmeyer is close to both Rico & Roy and as the title suggests is an appreciation of their musical collaborations. Tickets £12 available from Pro Music International, Swakeleys Rd, Ickenham, UB10 8DF on the door on the night subject to availability or online at www.toots musicmanagement.co.uk/newsevents.
Ruislip Central Horticultural Society Spring Show Sat 28th March, 1pm-4pm The Barn, Bury Street, Ruislip. See website for details: www.ruisliphorticultural.org.uk
Cancer Research UK Market Sat 28th March, 10am-12.15pm The Village Hall, Ickenham, UB10 8DG. Various Stalls, Refreshments, Raffle etc. Entrance 50p. Tables available for hire call 01895 634851 for more details. Free Meditation Event Sat 28th March, 2pm-5pm Meditation House, 279 Swakeleys Road, UB10 8DR. Positive Thinking Starter Course. The course is free but booking is required, contact 07970 147967 or 020 8574 3699.
LIVE MUSIC EVENTS The Swan at Iver 2 High Street, Iver, SL0 9NG Fri 13th March Lucky for some, who experience the show of Steelworks Sat 14th March Dine and enjoy the music of Nicky B Fri 20th March Rock band Solace return Sat 28th March Great show with Swing and Soul Duo 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). Sun 3rd May Join us to celebrate 10 years at The Watersedge - bbq from 2pm with live music from 4pm. Tropic at Ruislip Ruislip Social Club, Grosvenor Vale, Ruislip, HA4 6JQ Fri 13th March Classic Clapton - Eric Clapton Tribute Band
APRIL EVENTS Harefield Amateur Dramatic Society present Bedroom Farce 16-18th April, 7.30pm for 8pm St Marys Church Hall High Street, Harefield, UB9 6BX The classic comedy by Alan Ayckbourn takes place in three bedrooms during one night and the following morning revolves around four married couples. At the beginning of the play, the oldest couple are getting ready to go out for a meal to celebrate their wedding anniversary; the youngest couple are about to host a house-
Fri 20th March Roxy Magic Sun 22nd March Bookends play Simon & Garfunkel Fri 27th March True Gold - Spandau Ballet Tribute For full details and tickets see www.tropicatruislip.co.uk or call 020 8707 2256
DON'T MISS THE DEADLINE! If you would like us to publicise your event in our April issues contact us no later than Monday 16th March.
Building Construction/Bricklaying Extensions & Loft Conversions Patio/Paths/Block Pave Driveways Decking Kitchen & Bathroom Installation Plumbing & Heating
Electrical Services Rewires Plastering & Tiling Painting & Decorating Fencing Roofing Carpentry & Joinery UPVC Fascias & Guttering
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Short Story Beauty
Wrinkle Removal: Floppity PoppityThe Results & the Risks
“Maxwell, we need to talk about the rabbit”, Colin said gruffly, “will you please stop twitching the curtain?” “No can do, Dad”, Maxwell peered through his parents’ window into the twilight, “I’m checking the coast is clear”. “Didn’t you buy that fancy sports car to attract the ladies?” Colin chuckled, picking up his newspaper. “Your neighbour, Dolores Bagwell, is no lady. She treats me like a free taxi service”, moaned Maxwell, “the second I unlock the car she virtually You moisturise, tone, exfoliate, leaps the passenger seat”. eat ainto healthy diet and stay out of the sun. Youthe don’t smoke. Maxwell closed curtain and But still pesky looked at those his Dad. He wrinkles knew gradually gain ground. If you what this was about. want to keep them at bay a “You’re not getting rid to of let the little longer, it’s time Floppity Poppity”, hecharge. said, “and professionals take that’s final”. Available treatments can “Mum and I want to decorate significantly reduce telltale signs of ageing, andit’s whilst the spare room, and time the effect won’t be as dramatic the rabbit went”, Colin said. as cosmetic surgery, for many it’s “Went where?” Maxwell asked enough to give them a ‘lift’ and suspiciously. a fresher appearance. “I’m sure there’s space in your Picking Your Therapist flat”, Colin smiled. Recommendations are Maxwell grimaced. His flatthe great, but always check had nothing butand space, and qualifications experience of that’s the way he liked it. It had any therapist. reclaimed oak floorboards, and Stay safe: zinc worktops. Floppity Poppity, • Therapists performing nona four foot cuddly rabbit with surgical cosmetic procedures one don’t ear, arequire tatty bow, and medical some mysterious stains would qualifications and aren’t overseen bywith the his Care Quality certainly not go decor. Commission, butgot many “I don’t see why I’ve to take procedures do carry risks him just because you’re giving and should only be carried my bedroom a lick of paint”, out by someone highly Maxwell sulked, seems very trained. The “it Treatments You selfish”. 50
Floppity Poppity had been a present from Aunty Betty for Maxwell’s first birthday. He had sat in the corner of Maxwell’s bedroom and been a wrestling partner, a makeshift beanbag and a comforter through chicken pox. Maxwell loved him, just not enough to have him in his flat. “Chuck him in a skip”, Colin said bluntly. “The Dawson’s on the corner have got one, and it’s only half full”. “I’m sure they’d be delighted if Can suddenly Trust (TYCT) register, Floppity appeared in backed by the Department it”, Maxwell said sarcastically. of Health, will tell you if “They’d be fine, I’ve alreadyis the treatment provider asked them”. Colin quickly appropriately qualified. hid behind the sports page. • Injectable cosmetic Maxwell’s mouth fell Botox, open, treatments (e.g. “youRestylane) want me toshould just throw only him away, we oweby him belike performed annothing? Can’t you just put trained him back appropriately doctor, in my bedroom once you’ve dermatologist, dentist or decorated?” registered nurse within a clinical Check “It hasn’t beensetting. your bedroom that ten theyyears are registered for over and why the appropriate you with still need a cuddly toy is professional body: doctors or beyond me”. dermatologists, the General “I can’t believe you could be so Medical Council (GMC); heartless”. Maxwell snatched dentists, the General Dental up his car key. “I’m going”. Council (GDC); nurses the Nursing & Midwifery Council “Take the rabbit with you”, Colin (NMC). called after him. • See your doctor Maxwell bundled thebefore rabbit out undergoing injectable of the house, slamming the treatments. Botox® is a door behind him. Opening the prescription-only treatment passenger door of his car he that shouldn’t be undertaken sat Floppity onof the seat. without adown review your Themedical rabbit looked sadly at him. history. “I guess it’s time to say All the treatments below goodbye oldrisk fellow”, Maxwell have one in common: said, and, in one last tender
by Alison Runham
allergic reaction. While this may be limited to itching, allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis, so ensure you’re confident that the therapist would know how to deal with this if it occurs.
Injectable Treatments
Botox®fastened the seatbelt gesture, Botox®him. contains a toxin around - Botulinum toxin A – which Maxwell was getting into the relaxes the muscle underneath driver’s side when he heard the wrinkle, smoothing it the familiar sound high heels out. Several smallofinjections tottering up the drive. are usually given andHis it’sheart sank. particularly popular for brow lines. darling”, Mrs Bagwell “Maxwell called, please. Pros:“the The off-licence effects usually last for several months. And be quick, it closes in ten minutes”. Cons: You may have flu-like symptoms forI a day or so, and “Mrs Bagwell, can’t…”, some bruising. Maxwell began. The results can take up to a fortnight to become “Who’s lady friend?” evidentthat? and Arepeat treatments Mrs indignantly areBagwell needed peered to maintain your through the although windscreen at the new look, some shadowy figure inside. “That’s people develop a resistance no good, she’s in my seat”. the treatment. Treated areas may beseized droopyhis foropportunity, a while, and Maxwell blurred vision “Yes, that’s, er,can Flo”.occur if the area around the eyes is treated. “Flo who?” Mrs Bagwell asked Dermal fillers resentfully. Dermal filler is the general “Flo who in the of passenger term for sits a variety chemicals seat he added (e.g.now”, hyaluronic acidcryptically and and quicklythat started the engine. collagen) are injected either to fill or he plump Reversing offwrinkles the drive, up your lips.would Although called, “Dad love it’s to give notaalift”. legal requirement forat you Then he grinned these to be administered the sound of Mrs Bagwell’sby a medical professional, highly urgent knocking on his it’s parents’ recommended (a look at the front door. ‘cons’ below will explain why). “Floppity, old friend”, Maxwell Some accelerating fillers are more smiled, past the permanent than others, and Dawson’s skip, “I think you’ve certain treatments may require just found a whole new purpose a local anaesthetic first. They inare life”. usually given as a series of small injections, and the treated By Jackie Brewster
area is massaged. Pros: Permanent fillers give long-lasting results. Cons: The results can sometimes be asymmetrical or lumpy, or the filler can drift away from the injection site – this may need surgical repair. The treated area is likely to be swollen and tender for a while, and you may experience itching and bruising. In the worst case scenario, dermal fillers can cause necrosis (death of the surrounding tissue).
Resurfacing Treatments
All the treatments below aim, in essence, to damage the outer layer of skin - removing dead and aging skin cells, forcing the body to produce more collagen, and stimulating new growth to repair the damage. If you’re a cold sore sufferer, they may trigger an outbreak. Laser/light resurfacing This is also known as a ‘laser peel’ or ‘labrasion’. A pulsating
burst of light from a laser or pulsed diode light is used to remove the skin’s outer cells layer by layer. Pros: May remove blemishes and acne scars too. Effects are usually long lasting (up to several years). Cons: Itching is common and your skin will dry and begin to peel after a few days. Facial redness may last for months. Chemical peels. A variety of chemicals can be used to ‘burn’ or peel away the top layer of old or dead skin cells. Fruit and glycolic acid peels have a limited effect but intensive peels that use more aggressive chemicals (e.g. salicylic acid and trichloroacetic acid) penetrate deeper into the skin, giving more noticeable results. Pros: Younger looking skin without the risk of injections. Deep peels are a one-off, longlasting treatment. Cons: Deeper peels can
be uncomfortable and the likelihood of scarring and changes in skin pigmentation are increased. A sedative and/or local anaesthetic may be needed. Microdermabrasion Microdermabrasion or ‘particle resurfacing’ uses fine abrasive crystals to remove the outer layer of skin cells. A vacuum device is used simultaneously to remove dead skin cells as they are ‘sanded’ off. Pros: Usually produces noticeable results and may remove blemishes too. Cons: Can cause facial redness for several hours, and some slight bruising. It may cause scarring and permanent pigmentation changes. A course of treatments gives the best result. Remember: Always tell your therapist about any sensitivities, allergies or medical conditions before you start treatment.
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Male – 8 years old – Black / Tan Terrier x Yorkie Smudge is a lovely character looking for a rather special experienced home with someone who can give him all the love and attention he craves, and understands how upset he gets being left on his own (especially at bed time!), so is happy to be with him most of the time. Smudge is good with children, and other dogs on the whole but the terrier instinct is strong and he definitely couldn’t live with cats or other small fur ries. Do you have the love, time and patience to offer Smudge in return for an affectionate and devoted companion for life (with loads of cuddles thrown in)? If you think you can offer one of our animals a lov ing home then please ring RSPCA Hillingdon Branch on or visit our website to download an application form. The RSPCA Hillingdon, Slough, Windsor, Kingston, District Branch has had an RSPCA clinic since before world war 2. Over the generations, millions of volunteer hours have kept this safe haven open for sick, unwanted and abandoned pets and pets belonging to people in hardship who cannot afford private vet fees. 13,000 pets a year go through our doors. We face daily constant financial battles, we receive no state aid or help from local councils this legend helping local animals in need by: Donating on line, Donating regularly, Volunteering, Donating pet goods, food and bedding. RSPCA clinic 16 Crescent Parade, Hillingdon, UB10 0LG. For appointments 01895270926 Enquires 01895231435 Thank you for your support . We can’t do it with out you! 52
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Our AGM will be held on Tuesday 21st April at the Sports Club. Please come along to hear about what we have been doing this year and to tell us your concerns.
We have a new information and communication forum Richings Park Today which we hope will be a source of information, networking and support and allow you to have a voice. Please join and get involved.
Even though the Airports Commission consultation has now closed we are still seeking information about the impact the various proposals will have on our area. It now seems that it is proposed that the River Cone will be diverted across the field behind The Ridings and The Poynings, which raises concerns over flooding. Also the Grundon’s Energy from Waste incineration plant will be relocated to Old Slade Lake so it will come much closer to us and will also be higher than the existing building. We have considerable concerns about noise resulting from the new runway as it seems that we may be under one of the new flight paths. We had a noise monitor in Richings Park for several months last year to record the noise that we currently experience from the airport. Heathrow Ltd have now employed a consultant to consider and analyse the data and we are expecting the report shortly. 54
The other option on the table for airport expansion is Gatwick. We feel that we need to know more about this option and have therefore asked Gatwick to come and explain their proposal to us on
If you have not already done so please remember to pay your subscript ions to your road steward or at the Post Office. Details on our website if you lose the envelope delivered to you.
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01895 438 811 07825 986 762
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The problem I am asked about most frequently is that of what to do with a north-facing wall. Everyone wants to know what you can plant up it but more importantly, what you can do to increase the chances of your chosen plant not just surviving but also thriving. Getting the right plant for the spot is essential and I’ve listed some great north-facing wall climbers below. But first consider whether you need year round cover (and so something evergreen) or would accept a deciduous climber that will lose its leaves but keep a framework of stems, or if you could live with an herbaceous climber that will die back each year and return again in the spring. If the wall is very shaded it may be worth reducing the shade if you can. Nearby wall-shrubs could be pruned back or overhanging trees crown lifted (the lower branches removed) or crown thinned (the crown’s density reduced). Walls may be a dark grey or brick colour but you can make the spot considerably more plant friendly if you change the colour of the wall before planting. A pale-coloured masonry paint on the wall will cause light to be reflected back 56
Facing North
by Pippa Greenwood to the plant and make it more likely to thrive. Consider growing more than one climber to increase the season of interest and so the amount of time that the wall looks good.
Flowering may be reduced if the site is gloomy and so to maximise your climber’s flower power make sure that you apply sulphate of potash as this will increase flowering potential. Follow the instructions on the pack, and generally try to apply it to the root area in late summer and then again in spring. Make sure that the climber goes in at a good distance from the wall up which it is to grow. A minimum of about 45cm (18in) should mean that it can develop a good strong root system and this will help to keep it growing well. Self-clinging climbers such as the climbing hydrangea or a variegated ivy can look great and help to provide at least part of the interest you’re after for your north-facing wall, but even these often need a bit of a helping hand to get them started – train the stems on to the wall and protect from wind until they get properly attached.
TOP PLANTS FOR NORTHFACING WALLS AND FENCES Akebia Quinata - Pretty pale green foliage with vanilla perfumed purple-brown flowers in late spring. Berberidopsis Coralline - Prefers acidic soil, clusters of deep red flowers in early autumn. Clematis - Many smaller flowered varieties such as white flowered, rampant C. montana do well. Codonopsis Convolvulacea Pretty bell or saucer shaped violet coloured flowers in summer. Humulus Lupulus (the hop) - The golden leafed ‘Aurea’ will perform quite well as long as the shade is not too intense or the site windy. Hydrangea Anomela Petiolaris - A deciduous climber with broad creamy white flowerheads. Lathyrus Latifolius - the everlasting pea. Small clusters of pinky purple flowers throughout the summer and in to early autumn Lonicera x Americana - Classic honeysuckle flowers in yellow flushed red and with a gorgeous perfume during the summer. Lonicera x Tellamanniana - Bright yellowy orange honeysuckle flowers in late spring and summer. Vitis Coignetiae - Renowned for its fabulous autumn colour. Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ veg growing system, biological controls, fleece, copper tape and lots more besides.
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I can’t believe that we are already nearly half way through the year! As always it is a busy and exciting year in Iver Heath Infant school and Nursery school.
I have been met by cries of ‘Ahoy there me hearties’ and ‘All hands on deck’! This stimulus has led to some super work from these children in all subjects including writing, dance and maths.
At the end of the Autumn term we held our Christmas celebrations which included the Reception children’s Nativity production, this was amazing and brought a tear to the eye! The whole school held a Carol service at St Margaret’s church and our thanks go to Father Andrew for welcoming us all to his church.
In Year One this term they have had a Pirate theme. As I have been walking around the school I have been met by cries of ‘Ahoy there me hearties’ and ‘All hands on deck’! This stimulus has led to some super work from these children in all subjects including writing, dance and maths.
The Spring term started with a Music and Dance themed week. Each class took one of the BBC’s ‘ten pieces’ (this is a selection of classical pieces specially chosen to appeal to children) and carried out various activities related to the piece during the week. The children were encouraged to paint, write and dance using the music as a stimulus. The week finished with a dance performance from each class inspired by their particular piece of music. The whole school runs a topic based creative curriculum and so the children learn through, and about, topics that the teachers feel will particularly appeal to them. This term our Year Twos have been studying the Great Fire of London and as part of this research they have visited St Paul’s Cathedral in London to find out about the rebuilding of that area of London after the fire. The staff at the cathedral were all extremely impressed by the children’s knowledge and by their excellent behaviour! The whole school runs a topic based creative curriculum and so the children learn through, and about, topics that the teachers feel will particularly appeal to them. This term our Year Twos have been studying the Great Fire of London and as part of this research they have visited St Paul’s Cathedral in London to find out about the rebuilding of that area of London after the fire. The staff at the cathedral were all extremely impressed by the children’s knowledge and their excellent behaviour! In Year One this term they have had a Pirate theme. As I have been walking around the school 58
Our Reception children have been studying Dinosaurs this term and this has involved hunting for dinosaurs, reading about dinosaurs, painting and making dinosaurs, measuring dinosaurs and writing about dinosaurs, to name just a few! They also had an exciting trip out when they went to visit the dinosaurs at the Oxford Natural History Museum. Again the adults who accompanied them all remarked on how well the children behaved and how interested they all were in this area of learning. Our Nursery children, who are only three and four years old, have just last week, performed their first production on our school stage. They danced, sang, acted and made us all laugh, and some of us cry, as they excelled in their version of ‘The Minibeast’s Party’! We are of course extremely proud of all of the children at our school and thoroughly enjoy the experience of working in partnership with their parents in their education! To further develop parents understanding of the work their children do in phonics sessions we recently held a Parents’ Workshop during which the parents had a short presentation followed by a chance to visit their children’s class and join in with a phonics session. I would like to thank all the parents who came along and joined in so enthusiastically!
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Pets Corner... (Mar15)_Layout 1 26/02/2015 11:58 Page 1
HAMSTER QUICK STATS: Life span: 1 to 3 years
Hamsters & Guinea Pigs...
HAMSTERS: There are two strains of hamsters commonly kept as Average pets: the classical litter size: Syrian (Golden) 4-7 and the smaller Russian/ Chinese. Golden hamsters are more robust and easier to tame and handle, and rarely bite if handled regularly. Hamsters are solitary and happy kept alone especially as adults will tend to fight. They are ideal first pets for children. A strong wire or smooth plastic cage is best as they continually gnaw and can chew out of wooden cages. Commercial hamster food is ideal but they should also be given treats of fresh vegetables. Fresh water in a dropper bottle or a frequently cleaned bowl should always be available. It is traditional to use sawdust as a substrate in the cage but sheets of newspaper are adequate, make less mess and are easier to clean. Commercially available bedding made from fabric should be avoided as hamsters will often chew it and this can cause intestinal blockages. Cellulose fibre bedding or shredded newspaper is ideal. Cages should be cleaned regularly, at least weekly. Hamsters are very active creatures and will enjoy climbing and exploring in stacks and love wheels to exercise in. Hamsters suffer GUINEA PIG QUICK STATS: from few infectious Life span: 4 to 8 years diseases but can Sexual maturity: 9 to 10 weeks suffer from a Average litter size: severe and often 3-4 fatal enteritis know as ‘wet tail’ and from Demodectic Mange which causes them to go bald. Sexual maturity: 6 to 8 weeks
GUINEA PIGS make ideal pets. They are affectionate and rarely if ever, bite. They can be kept together and thrive on companionship but may fight if not brought up together and of course entire males and females should not be kept together unless neutered to avoid unwanted breeding. Guinea pigs are hardy and can be kept outdoors all year 60
provided they have shelter from the weather and plenty of warm bedding. They are best fed a commercial pelleted diet with ad-lib hay supplemented with plenty of fresh fruit and veg. Additional Vitamin C should be provided in drinking water although this degrades in drinking bottles with metal nozzles. Guinea pigs should be wormed when first bought but rarely suffer from infectious diseases although many can suffer from a painful skin condition due to mange mites. Teeth and claws should be checked for over-growth and a wooden block provided for gnawing.
M C Atkinson BVSc MRCVs www.stmartinsvetclinic.com
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The Wildlife Zone...FP (Mar15)_Layout 1 26/02/2015 15:57 Page 1
THE WILDLIFE ZONE
HUMMERS H
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.
ummingbirds are amongst the most spectacular and fascinating birds in the world, which is why I had them high on my list of ‘must sees’ when I went to South America. They may be numerous but that does not mean one can easily spot them, as I found out: although I also had other animal-watching priorities such as anteaters, river dolphins, sloths, capybara and many more. ‘Hummers’ get their name from the humming sound of their wings when they hover in front of flowers, feeding on nectar. They beat their wings so fast that the human eye cannot possibly count the wing beats making the image a fantastic blur. These exotic pollinators only live in the New World where they evolved from songbirds over millions of years. Hummingbirds have progressed to use the soaking rain to clean and preen their spectacular plumage. This is an important advantage they have over other pollinators such as insects which often become damaged when they are drenched. Some scientists believe that these birds developed this advantage to fill the ecological niche in wet climes, especially in the colder mountainous habitats. From these regions, hummingbirds diversified and spread throughout the Americas, pollinating plants and forming a symbiosis with them which we witness today. The tell-tale characteristics that I looked out for when I was in the Amazon and the Sub Tropical Forests of Iguazzu were their tiny size, long bills, sensational colours and iridescent feathers. I had thought that I would be able to view them everywhere at any time, but I was wrong and I only managed to see a few species towards the end of my tour. Even then, I never witnessed their superb aerial acrobatics such as flying backwards or upside down; skills learned no doubt from hovering and feeding on flowers. Nor did I see them visit their small nests; some so minute that they neatly fit underneath a large blade of grass or flower stalk which hides and protects them from rainstorms and predators. Whilst they were perching before darting back and forth to colourful bell-shaped flowers, I once again pondered on their body mechanisms. Scientists have found that many hummingbird species have hearts that beat up to a ‘mere’ 400 times per minute when perching, but increases to a staggering 1,200 times per minute when flying. Because they must continually feed from nectar, or occasionally have protein from flies and other small flying insects to supplement their diet, I suspected that they must live on the edge of existence and always be only hours from death. Consequently their specialist behavioural patterns, such as their feeding habits, mean that these tiny birds now occupy a specific niche in the eco-system. As a result, a damaged wing or bill, or any illness which lasts a few days, is usually fatal. Their petite bodies and delicate biology will not allow the birds even a few days to recover from imperfect health to full fitness. It is only at night time when the ‘hummers’ rest from feeding, although it is the time when death is always near. If they haven’t fed enough throughout the day, they starve; but those which have eaten well can perch through the hours of darkness. However if predators appear, the defenceless ‘hummers’ remain motionless and often die in an attack. However, even in daytime hours, the hummingbirds’ spectacular colours attract both mates and predators. Despite this, the ever present threat of predation is outweighed by the likelihood of finding a mate and rearing a family in their short lives. Even though their precarious existence caused by their specialist feeding habits, tiny size and vulnerability to predators, ‘hummers’ still fight each other to the death for territory and mating rights. The fittest and strongest birds choose the most appealing territories which include the best flowers and feeding areas, as well as the optimum nesting sites. The offspring which have the highest quality genetic material of their parents will fledge and grow up in these prime territories. However, after juvenility they will either inherit these elite territories or fight to gain new ones elsewhere. One of the green hummingbirds I managed to see in the dense foliage had a long slender bill, even though it was still smallish in comparison to some ‘hummers’. This means that this species can only feed on certain flowers which have its nectar close to the opening of the flower head. If the nectar lies beyond the length of the ‘hummers’ bill, the bird cannot access the food. Only the hummingbirds with longer bills will be able to feed on flowers which have larger petals and deeper canals. In the USA they have found that some species have learned to find food from garden feeders which are designed to look like red flower petals. The difference is that these specialist feeders are jars filled with clear nectar, and have been adapted to suit the ‘hummers’ long bills, tongues and hovering routines. But mankind’s negativity is never too far away, including habitat destruction where nectar producing flowers could decline and push some birds towards extinction. As a result conservationists remain wary and on their guard. At the end of my Brazilian expedition I was happy to have seen some ‘hummers’ as well as being able to photograph one, despite the difficulty in doing so. Since then I have been continually filled with awe because of their incredible biology, flying acrobatics and sensational colours.
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Motoring
Land Rover Discovery Sport SD4
It’s the first model in a new family of cars from Land Rover, but can the Discovery Sport live up to the legacy of the Freelander it replaces? James Baggott heads to Iceland to find out.
What is it?
The long-awaited replacement for the Freelander and the first in a new family of Discovery models. Land Rover has split its range into three distinct ‘pillars’. There’s Range Rover, the soon to be retired Defender range and then there’s Discovery. The Disco Sport is the first and where it sits in the range will become clear as the new models are unveiled.
What’s under the bonnet?
A diesel engine. Yes, for now at least, just the one. Jaguar Land Rover has an all-new set of power plants waiting in the wings, but they’re not ready yet. It comes in six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic guises, has 190bhp and 420Nm of torque. CO2 emissions are 161g/km and it’ll return 47.1mpg. It’s nothing groundbreaking, but there’s little wrong with it either. 66
By James Baggott @CarDealerEd
What’s the spec like?
Not too bad at all. There’s a new infotainment system which Land Rover - and sister firm Jaguar - have been crying out for. There’s a new suite of apps which run on a smartphone and can be displayed on the car’s screen. Four trims are available - SE, SE Tech, HSE and HSE Luxury - all with varying levels of the usual extras. Options include an armrest cooler and warmer box, seven USB points and headrest mounted iPad holders.
Any rivals?
The Discovery Sport enters a marketplace full of premium compact off-roaders, including the popular Audi Q5 and BMW X3. Where the Land Rover stands tall is in its off-road ability - the tough Icelandic terrain covered so easily during this drive would be the death of many a supposed off-roader. Its seven-seater layout is unique for this class of car.
What’s it like to drive?
We spent three days at the launch of the Discovery Sport in Iceland, tackling terrain that wouldn’t look out of place
on the moon. However, the landscape was so extreme it gave us very little idea what it would be like to drive on a normal road. We can report it’s incredibly competent off road, though. We found the ride a little hard, but then that could have been the dreadful surfaces, and it was a little loud inside too, but again that was probably the studded tyres.
Verdict
There’s no doubt the Discovery Sport is a marked improvement on the Freelander. The interior is a vast improvement; it’s comfortable and has plenty of room in the front and back. The multimedia system is better than before, although not perfect, and off road it’s in its absolute element. However, with no time on ‘normal’ roads on the launch it’s impossible to report on what it would be like as a daily driver. We’ll reserve judgement on that for a later date. Still, we doubt this will harm the Disco Sport’s popularity - the brand is on such a roll it’s going to fly out of the showrooms.
The knowledge Model: Land Rover Discovery Sport SD4 Price: From £32,995 Engine: 2.2-litre, fourcylinder, turbocharged, diesel Power: 190bhp, 420Nm Max speed: 117mph 0-60mph: 9.8s CO2 emissions: 161g/km
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FLOWERS & GARDENING... Iver Flower Club The Coppins Room, Iver Village Hall, Grange Way, Iver, SL0 9HW. Meets 4th Thursday of month, 7.30pm. Call Jayne on 07730 249876. Visit: www.bbando.org.uk/clubs/iver
Bobbin Lace Making Group Every Thu 7.30pm at Southlands House, The Green, Swan Road, West Drayton. Call Julie 020 8897 9368 or Margaret 01895 851349 Chinese Brush Painting Group We meet on Saturday mornings. The class is guided by an experienced tutor. Learn to compose and develop your own Chinese painting style as well the finer points of Chinese calligraphy. At Harefield Library, Park Lane Village Centre, Harefield or contact Phyllis Nash on 01895 476 644 / phyllnash@gmail.com Inland Waterways Association Meet 2nd Tues of every month at Hillingdon Canal Club, Waterloo Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX, 7.30pm. middlesex.social@waterways.org.uk Uxbridge Craft Market Every Wednesday (9am-5pm) at The Pavilions Shopping Centre Arts, Crafts, Gifts and Collectables www.uxbridge-craft-market.co.uk KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA... Adults Zumba Classes Running on Wednesdays 6-7pm at Iver Heath Village Hall, Saint Margaret's Close. Call Diane on 07926 854184 Bagot Stack (Fitness League) Term Time Only. Vyners School, UB10 8AB on Tue 7.30 - 8.30pm. Also in Windsor Monday & Thursday. Call Rosemary 01628 776838 www.thefitnessleague.com 68
class. Shaun Thompson, 07906 087749 www.tauruspt.co.uk
Iver Heath Garden & Allotment Club Iver Heath Village Hall. Every 2nd Monday of the month at 8pm. Call Barbara Thompson Programme Secretary 01895 235213. Contact email address is Ann McCullough Secretary amcc100@gmail.com HOBBIES...
Ballet Classes Iver Heath Village Hall, Friday 4.457pm. Call L Killian 01753 814280
Bokwa Fitness Tone & Core Bokwa Dance Fitness Over-50's group Energetic workout that anyone can pick up, dancer or not. Saturdays 10.30-11.30am, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Contact Penny 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk
Boxfit Saturdays 9.45-10.45am at the Evreham Sport Centre, Iver. An exciting class which uses focus pads and gloves to enhance an excellent aerobic workout. Call 01753 672610 Children's Zumba (Zumbatomic) Classes Wednesdays at 3.30-5.30pm at Iver Heath Village Hall, Saint Margaret's Close. Call Diane on 07926 854184
Futunity Street Dance and Hip Hop for children age 7-11 years. Fri's from 4-9pm call Cheryl on 01753 651754 or email childcare@ivercommunity.org Modern Jive Classes Monday 8-11pm at West Drayton Community Centre Tuesday & Thursday 8-11pm at Uxbridge Civic Centre Beginners Welcome – First Night Entry & Free Lifetime membership with this listing. Contact Alan: 0208 933 4350 or 07860 250961 www.clubceroc.com email: alanandsue@clubceroc.com Donna’s Keep Fit Iver Heath Village Hall. Call Donna 01753 674945. Tue 9.45-10.45am
Hour of Power - Ultimate Workout Wed 7pm at the Evreham Sports Centre, Iver. Call 01753 672610. INSANITY Classes Mon & Thurs 8.15-9pm. St Peters Centre, Iver. £5 per class. Call Rachel on 07745 622011. Iver Heath Drama Club Meet every Wednesday at Iver Heath New Village Hall between 7.45pm & 10pm. Contact Matt Streuli email: matt@ihdc.co.uk or www.ihdc.co.uk Jazzercise Classes New Denham Community Centre Monday 9.30am-10.30am and Tuesday 6.45pm-7.45pm. Wed, Thurs and Friday 10-11am Denham Village Memorial Hall Village Road, Denham, Bucks. Thursday 6.30-7.30pm. Contact Wendy Whitefoord, Tel: 07803 602142 or email: wendy.whitefoord@btinternet.com www.jazzercise.com Ladies Only Kickboxing Club Wednesdays, 6.30-8.00pm at Watts Hall, Redford Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1SZ. First Class FREE! Just turn up or call Instructor Leanne Phillips on 07518 848285 email: leanne @kickboxing-longdon.co.uk www.kickboxing-london.co.uk Nordic Walking & Wellbeing Explore our borough’s green spaces . with all round exercise in the open air, 4 week courses various days and locations pre booking essential contact 07771872592 / learningmoves@hotmailco.uk
Evreham Adult Learning Centre Please call 0845 045 4040 to book the following… Gentle Yoga Wed 13.30-14.30. Class suitable for beginners to intermediate level. Cost £50 for 10 weeks. Fully qualified Exercise To Music Instructor.
Personal Training Looking for some extra help to get fit & into shape? For more info and prices call Rachel on 07745 622011
Fitness Club St Catherine School, Money Lane, West Drayton, UB7 7NX. Thu 6-7pm Circuits, Fitness and Boxercise. £5 a
Pilates Class St Peters Centre, Iver. Tuesday 7-8pm. Julie Hall 07976 966 583
Pilates Iver Heath Village Hall on Thurs 7pm8pm call Mrs S Webb 01923 721335
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KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA CONTINUED...
Toddler & Junior Fitness Fun Junior Trampolining Weds 4.30pm5.30pm held at the Evreham Sports Centre Iver. Call 01753 672610.
sometimes a live band. If you like to reminisce, do come along and join us! Contact Derek on 01753 654398
Pilates and Tai Chi Fit courses Tuesdays 7.30-8.30pm, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Contact Penny 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk
Pinewood Fitness The Fitness Room, Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, Sl0 0NH. Mon 20.00-21.00, Wed 19.30-20.30. Booking only. Various Fitness Circuits, Boxercise, Gym Work. £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, 07906 087749 www.tauruspt.co.uk Richings Players Perform three plays each year usually at Iver Village Hall. If you would like to become a member call Adrian on 01753 652843 or www.richingsplayers.com Salsa Classes Every Monday: The Middlesex Arms, Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HG. Beginners class starts 8pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.459.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm. Every Wednesday: The WatersEdge, Canal Cottages, Packetboat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. Beginners class starts 7:30pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.309.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm Tap Dance Mondays 7.30-8.30pm at Meadows Community Centre, West Drayton. Adult Beginner/Intermediate tap. No exams. Contact 01895 420409 / learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk Taurus Circuits Pinewood Studio. With Personal Trainer Shaun. Monday 8pm-9pm Booking only 07906 087749 Tai Chi Classes Tues 10am at the Evreham Sports Centre, Iver. Call 01753 672610 Tai Chi Classes Every Saturday 10-11am, Yiewsley Methodist Church, Fairfield Road, UB7 8EY. Call Dan 07880 601429
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Yoga Iver Heath Village Hall Mon 6.30-7.45pm Jonathan Bell 07790 682238
ZUMBA Mon 7-8pm & Tues 7-8pm St. Mary's Church Centre, Langley Thurs 7-8pm St. Francis Church Hall, Langley.
ZUMBA ® Fitness Classes Mon & Thurs 7-8pm. St Peters Centre, Iver - all levels welcome! Call Rachel on 07745 622011. Zumba Fitness Weds 8-9pm at Langley Grammar School Sport Centre Reddington Drive Langley, SL3 8LL and Thurs 7-8pm at Yiewsley / West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Rd, West Drayton UB7 9JL.Call Gabriel 07735 090325, gabrielzumba@instructor.net www.gabriel84.zumba.com MUSIC... Faraday Country Music Club in Slough SL2 1RN. Join us for the best live Country Music every Thursday for listeners, western partners, freestyle or line dancers. From 8-11pm. Contact Deb 07986 050742. www.faradaycountry.co.uk Iver Singers Singing for Fun We’re a friendly group who meet every Tuesday (term time) at Evreham Adult Education Centre, between 7.30pm and 9.30pm. No Auditions. No previous experience necessary. Please contact Sara Adams: sara@ iversingers.com, 07733 466177, or visit www.iversingers.com for more. The Windsor & District Big Bands Appreciation Society Meet on 2nd Wed of each month at 7.30pm, Datchet Hall, Horton Rd, Datchet. Meetings feature the music of the big bands of the 40s & 50s Swing era. Two recitals from records, tapes & CDs, along with a raffle and
Signature A Cappella singers We meet on a Monday night at Iver Heath Village Hall, St Margaret’s Close, Iver Heath SLO 0DQ. Time 7.45-10.30 with a ten minute break for a cup of tea, a chat and a biscuit. If you enjoy singing please come along to watch us one evening or visit www.signaturesingers.com Stoke Poges Singers A friendly four-part choir with about forty members singing a wide variety of music during the year. New members are always welcome and there are no auditions. The ability to read music is not essential. Rehearsals on Thursday evening at St Andrews Centre, Rogers Lane, Stoke Poges from 8pm. Come along to a rehearsal or contact Naomi on 07831 217575 or Cheryl on 01753 655682. www.stoke-poges-singers.org Yiewsley & West Drayton Band Rehearse every Wednesday and Friday 8-10pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. To join or book the band contact Lynne on 07976 824152 or email Lynne@ywdband.com Yiewsley & West Drayton Training Band This is open to all ages wanting to learn to play a brass instrument or those of you wanting to 'brush up' your skills. Rehearse every Wed during term time 6.45-7.45pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. Contact Abi on 07985 302 856 or emailtraining@ywdband.com PETS... Iver Dog Training Club Meet Tuesday & Friday 6.30-9pm, St Andrews Church, Richings Park. Call Diana 01753 732907 Iver Heath Fields Dog Club 'Outdoor Training' every Sat at 10.15am, Wed at 11am call Mike on 01753 817852 or 07795 031335 or see website www.ihfdc.com continued overleaf...
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PRE-SCHOOL & KIDS GROUPS... French for Children with La Jolie Ronde, 5-11yrs. In Iver, Saturdays. Call Estelle 07831 779888 for more details. Rainbow Guides Iver Heath Scout Hut on Tuesday, 5.30-6.30pm. Call Cindy Gordon 01753 795724 or Tracey Glynn 01895 469804 Richings Park Pre-School St Leonard's Hall, St Leonard's Walk, Richings Park Iver, SL0 9DD. Monday to Friday 9.15am-12.15pm Extended days on Tue, Wed and Fri until 2.15pm. 15 hours funding available for 3-4 year olds per week. 2yr old funding. Call 07712 477848. Shooting Stars Pre-School An innovative pre-school setting for children aged two-five years open from 7.00am – 6.00pm Monday – Friday. Iver Village Hall, High St, Iver, SL0 9NW. Call Rafia 01753 651754 or e: childcare@ivercommunity.org Slough Sea Cadets Parade nights on Monday and Thursday 19.30-21.30 at Langley Pavillion, Langley Road, Slough, SL3 8BS. Male & Female Junior Cadets (age 10-12 yrs) and Cadets (age 1218 yrs). Fees £2 per week, courses from £5 for a weekend. Visit us on Facebook, pop-in or email: sloughseacadets@yahoo.co.uk Sticky Fingers Mothers & Toddlers Iver Heath Village Hall, Wed 9.3011.30am. Call Janet Beale 01753 652375 The Launchpad A breakfast club for children aged 511 and after school club for Infants. We also offer holiday play schemes. Iver Village Hall, High Street, Iver, SL0 9NW. Call Cheryl on 01753 651754 childcare@ivercommunity.org The Pod An after school club for Junior school children combining childcare with specialist educational activities. Iver 72
Village Junior School, High Street, Iver, SL0 9QA. Call Cheryl on 01753 651754 or email: childcare@ivercommunity.org Tiny Talk Baby Signing Classes Tuesday classes at St Mary’s Church Hall, High Street, Harefield UB9 6BX, 10am, price £5 pre-paid per family. Thursday classes at St Giles' Church Hall, 1 High Road, Ickenham UB10 8LE, 10am, 11.15am and 1pm, price £5.00 pre-paid per family. Friday classes at The Uxbridge Centre, The Greenway, Uxbridge UB8 2PJ, 10.30am, price £5.00 pre-paid per family. Please call Bev Meier to book 01895 824935 or 0781 8025993 Tiny Toes Childcare An inspirational full day care nursery for children aged six weeks to five years open from 8.00am – 6.00pm Monday – Friday. Evreham Centre, Swallow Street, Iver, SL0 0HS. Call Susan on 01753 655650 tinytoes@ivercommunity.org SELF DEFENCE... Close Quarter Combat Based in Richings Park. Specialising in speed, strength and conditioning training. All types of pad work combinations. Suitable for Men and Women of all ages. 1-2-1 sessions. Call Mark 07525 366126 email: mj.wilding@hotmail.com Karate (Adults & Children) Iver Heath Village Hall on Tues & Thurs. Kids 7-8pm, Adults 8-9.30pm. Call Sensei R. Baker 07898 946330. Karate Club of Denham / Uxbridge For ages 5 years and up. Sunday 9.15-11am at New Denham Community Centre, Oxford Road. Wednesday 5-7pm at The Greenway, Uxbridge. Call Dominic on 07988 743725 Kung Fu Club West Drayton Great Kung Fu work out for everybody, attractive trainings for children & adults on: Tuesday 5.30-6.30, Friday 7.30-8.30, Sunday 5.30-6.30. West Drayton Community Centre,
Harmondsworth Road, UB7 9JL. Contact Ella: 07702 479 435 or email: sportsclubuk@gmail.com Martial Arts Bujinkan Kuri Dojo Unit 21 Bridgeworks, UB8 2JG Tel: 07878 471124. Training: Sun 10.30-12.30pm, Tue 8-10pm, Thu 8.30-10pm www.bujinkankuridojo.co.uk Silat Kuntao Indonesian Self-Defence Traditional self-defence art from Central Java, includes empty hand, traditional weapons, meditation and healing massage. Adult classes only. Mon and Wed 8pm-10pm at Denham Village Memorial Hall, Denham, UB9 5BN. Call Philip Davies 07790 496 346 or email kuntao.matjan.uk@gmail.com. SELF HELP... Alcoholics Anonymous Every Sunday, 7.30pm at St Leonards Hall, St Leonards Walk, Richings Park, Iver, SL0 9DD. Contact Howard on 07816 315688 "if alcohol is costing you more than money, you should meet us" Slimming World Tuesday 5.30pm and 7.30pm and Wednesday 9.30am at Evreham Sports Centre, Iver Heath Contact Kate: 07432 107089 SOCIAL GROUPS... Coffee Shop At St Margarets Church, Church Rd, Iver Heath. Wed 10.45-11.45am. Enjoy a coffee and a chat in a friendly, informal atmosphere. Heathway Ladies Group Every second Tues of the month at 2pm. You’re welcome as a visitor at the cost of £1.50, as we have a waiting list. Contact Secretary Tricia Cooper 01753 817749 or e: tricia.cooper3@virginmedia.com Iver & District Countryside Assoc., If you enjoy walks in the country and social evenings, why not join us? Call Paul Graham 01753 655183
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SOCIAL GROUPS CONTINUED... Iver Evening Women’s Institute Iver Village Hall, meets 2nd Monday of month, 7.30pm. Call Margaret 01753 653751 for details. Iver Heath Ladies Meet on the 1st Monday of the month (exc. BHs). At 2pm in the Community Room, Iver Heath Village Hall. Call Pat Roberts 01753 647674 or email: pat@roberts3011.orange home.co.uk Iver Heath Community Library The library is open on Tuesday 10am-1pm & 2pm-5pm Thursday 10am-1pm & 2pm-7pm Saturday 10am-1pm We hope that people from all three local areas will join with us to preserve this important local resource. Membership is free. Many of the facilities are free. For details contact us or, alternatively, come to one of our free monthly coffee and cake mornings and discuss with us in person. Tel: 0845 2303232 email: lib-ivh@buckscc.gov.uk King's Friends A group of older men and women enjoying life. Contact 01753 651178 for our latest programme. Probus Club of Langley & Iver is always looking for new members, we meet for lunch at the Richings Park Sports Club on the last Tuesday of the month (except Dec). We are friendly and attract retired persons of both sexes who usually are from a professional background although there is nothing rigid about background. We normally have a speaker and cover a very wide range of interests. Contact the Secretary on 01753 653571. The Rotary Club of Langley & Iver Meets on Thurs evenings 6.45 for 7pm, Richings Park Golf Club. North Park. Iver. SL0 9DL 01753 655370. We are a small friendly club that welcomes everyone, from all walks of life. If you are interested in improving
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the lives of others and have fun doing it, visit www.rotarylangleyandiver.org. uk or email: akahold@hotmail.com Women’s Social Group Social group for women in West London. Looking to expand your social group and make new friends? We meet regularly for coffee, a chat and organised trips and welcome women of all ages. Please call Seema on 07730 898635 or email seemaa@seemaa.co.uk for more. SPORT... Back School Small Osteopath lead rehab excercise sessions designed to help strengthen the back with lots of self care advice. Held at Lotus Wellbeing Clinic call 01753 677 604 for further details. Basketball (starting 7th June) Drop-in sessions for adults age 16 and over. Saturdays 12-2pm. £3 per session. At the Evreham Sports Centre, Iver. Call 01753 672610. Darts Richings Park Sports & Social Club Wellesley Avenue. Men & Women Players. Tuesday & Thursday Nights. Call Gerry 07957 804204 Iver Heath Tennis Club Church Road, Iver Heath, Bucks. SL0 0RW. New members always welcome, adults and juniors, visit our website for details www.ihltc.co.uk or call John Stephenson 01895 441033 Iver Heath Bowls Club Interested in playing bowls? Ring Brian Carter 01753 817794 or Hon. Sec. Betty Hemsley 01753 651775 Iver Short Mat Bowls We are open on Wednesdays 2-5pm & 5-10pm in Iver Village Hall, experience not necessary. Age 18yrs+. Cal Bob 01753 654049 or Ron 01753 819644 or Mary 01753 654765 Iver Veterans Golf Society For men and women over 60. We meet every Tuesday morning at Iver
Golf Club. Handicap not necessary. Regular competitions held at Iver and other courses. You do not need to be a member of Iver Golf Club, just come along and play and make some new friends. Special rates for IVGS members. Contact: 01753 654246 Nordic Walking Taster Session Iver Starts Wednesday 30th January, 10am-11am, £5 at Evreham Sports Centre, Swallow Street, Iver, Bucks, SL0 0HS. Session is £5 with poles included. If you would like to book onto the course or require more details call the Evreham Sports Centre on 01753 672 610. Pink Ladies Netball Club All levels and abilities welcome. Training takes place at Stockley Academy, West Drayton every Tuesday evening. Senior training 16+yrs 7.30-9pm Back to Netball 16+yrs 7.30- 8.30pm Under 16s - please Rhiannon on 01895 448878 for details email: plnetball@hotmail.co.uk visit www.pinkladiesnetball.co.uk Richings Park Ladies Badminton Club Meet at St. Andrews Church Hall, North Park, Iver. Every Monday 24pm except Bank Holidays. Intermediate standard of playing. Call Daphne Wood 01753 653404 for details. Richings Park Short Mat Bowls Richings Park Sports & Social Club Wellesley Avenue. Wed from 4pm. Just turn up - equipment provided. Run for life Richings park running and fitness club. Richings park sports club Mon and Thu 6-7pm. With Personal trainer Shaun - sessions includes running, circuits, boxing and various other exercises. Call 07906 087749. Running Club For Advanced, Intermediate and Beginner. Runs organised in the local area. Free of charge, chance to train with other runners at your level. Call 01753 677 604 for further details.
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