West Drayton June 15 by In and Around Publishing

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 I’m sure for many of you, like me, this will be your child’s final month at school before heading off into the big wide world of further education and work. Whereas in previous years I would be anticipating the summer holidays, I’m now worrying about exam re sults and prom dresses. It’s hard to believe that my daughter was only six when I first started publishing these magazines, I only had one dog (who was merely a pup) as opposed to two dogs, both of whom are now veterans and I’ve moved house twice. It’s funny how you can think nothing much changes, and yet when you look back, pretty much everything has! On a less retrospective note, we have intro duced a new Situations Vacant section in the magazines from this month. For just £50 you can advertise your vacancy across all six magazines  a fantastic coverage of well over 30,000 homes. So if you have a job to fill, please just give us a call!

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Golden Years: Memories of 50 years ago Local Events

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Recipe: Lemon Risotto with Fresh Salmon

Motoring: Top 5 Eco Cars

Breakthrough for Sciatica Sufferers

There’s Life in the Old Cog Yet

Health: Loss of Libido

Property Matters

Zoe Hart

Reader Travel Offers

Coffee Break Puzzles

A hobby that’s worth Droning on about

Beauty & the Beach

Well, let’s see what ‘Flaming June’ has to bring and don’t forget, it’s Fathers Day on Sunday 21st!

Interiors: Kings of Bling

Finance: Saving for the Children

Pets Corner

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Situations Vacant

   Tel: 0800 038 5001 Mob: 07759 536494 In and Around Magazines cover: West Drayton . Iver . Denham . Uxbridge Ickenham . Ruislip Angela Fisher 0800 038 5001 / 07759 536494 info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk 

www.inandaroundpublishing.co.uk 

Garden Feature Clubs, Groups & Classes

38 40, 42 & 44

Wordsearch

Puzzle Solutions

Opinion

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Golden Years Memories of 50 Years Ago by Ted Bruning and trying to curry favour with the young. But how wrong those criticisms were, for this was not an act of subversion, but of absorption. The Beatles had become hugely successful dollar earners, with nine US number one singles and four US number one albums to their credit so far, as well as the creation of an enormous American market for other British acts; and that made them part of the Establishment and entitled to all the honours that came with it.

perhaps it was the shocking headlines of 11th June 1965 and the events that followed that spurred the Beatles into escaping from the curse of light entertainment – of Saturday morning children’s TV shows, of guest slots on Lulu (or, worse, a show of their own), of Royal Command Performances, of touring unto exhaustion. Once “Help!” was finished later that year they put the three-minute love-songs (albeit the superior and beautifully crafted threeminute love-songs) of the first half of the career behind them and started exploring their talent in earnest.

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Quite a few middle-class breakfasts must have been ruined when the newspapers of 11th June 1965 were opened. For the news was truly shocking. The Beatles were to receive MBEs in the Birthday Honours List!

It’s difficult at this distance – and almost impossible for people who weren’t around at the time – to realise what a big deal this was. And if anything it seems comical that so many retired colonels sent their medals back to the Palace in disgust. What blimps these outraged fuddy-duddies must have been, we think today; and the apocalyptic language with which they expressed their horror – the Beatles were “vulgar numbskulls”, snarled one; Britain would fall “even deeper into international ridicule and contempt”, howled another; and the word “debased” appeared over and over again – makes them seem even more so. As for the newly-elected Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson, who had put the Fab Four up for their gongs, he was vilified as subverting the honours system 

The Beatles themselves sensed this and seem to have been uneasy over it. John Lennon reportedly worried about being seen as a sell-out and had to be talked into accepting his MBE by Brian Epstein; and the Lovable Moptops famously tried to make a pantomime of their investiture that October, turning up in John’s psychedelic RollsRoyce, wearing unconventional suits, smoking a joint in the Palace loos (later and rather unconvincingly denied), and trying (and failing) to banter with the Queen. Four years later John confirmed that he had never been happy with the whole business when he returned his medal – without a trace of irony! – in protest at Britain’s involvement in the Vietnam and Biafran wars. So

And then Brian Epstein died; and although his death was tragically untimely (and although he was no showbiz monster to compare with the likes of Larry Parnes or Simon Cowell) it did finally complete the process that had started at Buckingham palace of freeing the Beatles from the light entertainment treadmill that had ruined so many of their great contemporaries – notably Dusty Springfield – and left them with nothing to do but create. So perhaps, ultimately, we have Harold Wilson to thank for The White Album, Abbey Road, and Let It Be.

Happy 50tH BirtHdays to Damien Hirst (7th), Elizabeth Hurley (10th), and Garry Pallister (30th). Cake and botox to you all!

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Dated Events (Jun15)_Layout 1 26/05/2015 15:43 Page 1

JUNE EVENTS

information please email fisaivervillage@gmail.com

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Ruislip Stamp & Postcard Fair 6th June & 11th July The Ruislip Methodist Church Hall, Ickenham Road, HA4 7DQ. For details call 01895 637283. Sausage & Asparagus Festival 6th June, 10am Wingroves Farm Shop, Langley Park Road, Iver, SL0 9QS. Free BBQ, Apple bobbing, Free Tea & Coffee, Face Painting and Sausage Tasting. For more information call 07930 913815.

Local Events June into July 2015 

Skittles Match 9th June, 7.30pm Inland Waterways Association, Hillingdon Canal Club, Waterloo Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX. All Welcome. Clubhouse and bar opens at 7.30pm for more details on our social evenings call Lucy on 07947 451376. The nearest tube station is Uxbridge. Ladies in the Night Walk 12th June, Registration at 8.30pm, Walk at 10pm. Michael Sobell Hospice, Gate 3, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood. Join us for our fifth annual sponsored stroll through the night this summer. Dress up in pink and join in the party atmosphere. The event is open to ladies, gents and pooches. You can choose to walk either 5½ or 9 miles and the route starts and ends at the hospice. Registration costs £20 before 5 June or £25 afterwards or on the night and includes a t-shirt, fundraising pack and breakfast. For details or to register go to www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk or call 01923 844730. Fisa Summer Fete 19th June, 3pm-6pm Iver Village Infant School bbq, refreshments, bouncy castle, stalls, tombola, raffle, Karate Display and meet Cinderella & Jack Sparrow Entrance 50p children under 12 Free. For more

Lunchtime Classical Music Concert 24th June, 12.15pm St Martin’s Church Hall, Corner of Eastcote Road and High Street, Ruislip, HA4 6DG. Ashley Fripp (piano) plays Bach, Britten,Scarlatti and Chopin. Retiring collection. Harrow Harmony's Summer Concert 27th June Methodist Church, Love Lane, Pinner. We are an amateur mixed voices choir based in South Harrow for details visit our website at www.harrowharmony.co.uk

JULY EVENTS Butterflies Lunch 4th July, 12midday-3pm Ickenham Village Hall, UB10 8DG. The lunch will be a Ploughman's followed by a sweet with tea or coffee. Entertainment by local choir Love2sing! You are welcome to bring along your own drinks. Tickets are £9 from Flowline Hairdressers in Ickenham Village or the Committee. For details call Vera on 01895 635224. This event is to raise funds for the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation. Summer Fayre 4th July, 12-3pm Denham Village Infant School. Bouncy Castle, Face Painting, Arts & Crafts with a seaside theme, Grand Raffle, Giant tombola, BBQ, Refreshments and more. Entrance by donation. All Welcome.

DON'T MISS THE DEADLINE! If you would like us to publicise your event in our July issues contact us no later than Monday 15th June.

Uxbridge Choral Society's Summer Concert 4th July, 7.30pm St. Margaret's Church, Windsor Street, Uxbridge. The choir will perform Mozart's Requiem and Ave Verum. Jeff Stewart will conduct. Tickets: £12 adults and £6 for u12 years. Available on the door or by calling 01895 847083. Iver Heath Junior School Summer Fayre 11th July, 12-3pm Iver Heath Junior School. Grand Prize and Cash Raffles plus Pony Rides, Bouncy Castle, Fairground attractions, Tombola, Games, Crafts and Refreshments. Summer Fayre 11th July, 11am-2pm Harefield Infant School, High Street, Harefield, UB9 6BT. Games Stalls & fun in the sun. Hayes Carnival 11th July, starts at 12.30pm Pump Lane Come along and be dazzled by the parade. Visit www.hillingdon.gov. uk/hayescarnival. FREE Meditation Event 11th July, 2.30pm-4.30pm Ickenham Village Hall, 33 Swakeleys Road, UB10 8DG. FREE event but booking is required. Call 07970 147967 / 0208 574 3699 or visit www.brahmakumaris.org/uk

LIVE MUSIC EVENTS The Swan at Iver 2 High Street, Iver, SL0 9NG. 12th June 2 Tone 19th June The Flyers 21st June Nicky B 26th June Goldeneye The WatersEdge Packet Boat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. 12th June A night of Soul & Motown - join us for Dinner! 25th July Cystic Fibrosis Trust Charity Day Motown - live music throughout the day.

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 Motoring  Top 5 Eco Cars

By James Baggott @CarDealerEd

As the costs to run our beloved petrol- and diesel-powered cars increase, it’s no wonder we’re all on the hunt for an alternative solution. With electric and hybrid powertrains driving some of the industry’s most esteemed supercars – the new Honda NSX and BMW i8 – it would appear that there is another way forward. But if eco is at the forefront of your mind, which car should you have on your driveway? Here are our choices.

Ford Fiesta

The Fiesta is the best selling car on the market – and not without good reason. Although it’s not labelled an official ‘eco’ car, its low running costs make it the ideal cost-effective solution for most buyers. Choose the 1.4-litre TDCi, priced from £13,065, and you can expect an average mileage of 68mpg and emissions of 107g/km.

Fiat 500

The Fiat 500 completes the ‘Thee Musketeers’ line-up, alongside the Mini and VW Beetle, as one of today’s most stylish cars. Running a 1.2-litre engine, the 500 TwinAir can achieve 49.6 urban mpg and dodges road tax by emitting just 95g/km of CO2. The TwinAir is priced from £12,715 and is the perfect city run around.

BMW i3

BMW’s futuristic i3 is one of just a few cars that has revolutionised the way we view the future of motoring. Not only does it combine eco-friendly driving with premium qualities, it can also reach 93mph, can go from 0-60mph in 7.9 seconds and has a driving range of 106 miles, thanks to its on-board petrol motor, which works alongside a 127kW electric unit. Sadly, its £29,130 price means we don’t see many of them on the road.

Volkswagen E-Up!

The E-Up! is one of the most practical and reasonably-priced electric cars on the market, with five doors and an estimated driving range of 93 miles. It takes six hours to recharge and has a comfortable top speed of 81mph. The price isn’t so attractive at £19,525, but this electric motor is close to feeling more like the average supermini.

Renault Twizy

Renault’s Twizy is just as fun as it looks. It may be the slowest of the pack, with a top speed of just 56mph, but it’s guaranteed to provide you with the most entertainment. Priced at £7,795, its 15kW battery takes four hours to charge, it has a driving range of 62 miles and emits zero emissions. And just look at its styling! 

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Home & Interiors Health The of Kings of Bling By Katherine Sorrell Loss Libido By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk

however, is discovering and tackling the causes. Ask your doctor for advice, particularly if the causes aren’t clear. Exhaustion may be a symptom of an illness such as anaemia, or an Modern life is busy and underactive thyroid, and sometimes that means your doctor may suggest that sex takes a back seat, and their precious furniture.’ The French kings of the medication, counselling or however much we might The king was inspired toall various therapies that can 17th and 18th centuries wish it otherwise. But there a small hunting lodge beadapt helpful if you’re stressed or had enormous influence may also be times when we just outside Paris, extend it, depressed. couldn’t care less ifinteriors. sex is in on aristocratic and fill it with jaw-droppingly Drugs and theFor carelegance, at all, let alone whatand Smoking, luxury splendid decoration and seat it’s in. So why splendour, lookdonowefurther Alcohol furnishings, all in order to Problem: Using drugs and sometimes suffer from a low glorify his monarchy. Its style than the styles of Louis drinking more unitsthe of most alcohol sex drive – and what can we was, of course, XIV, XV and XVI, writes than the recommended do to make our libido bounce up-to-date possible, a‘safe new Katherine Sorrell maximum’ can lower your sex back? fashion known as Baroque drive, and smoking can affect Exhaustion, Stress - dramatically dazzling and The year: 1681. The and place: both desire and performance opulent, epitomised by jewelDepression the royal court in France. And, because it can large reduce blood in like colours, furniture Problem: These problems according to King Louis XIV, flow. bulbous shapes, trompe l’oeil can all affect your energy known as the Sun King,and who Reduce your alcohol paintwork and glittering silver, hormone levels, power and your had assumed two years Cure: intake, give crystal up smoking and gold and to surprise ability to relax and earlier: ‘There is concentrate nothing that avoid Your andrecreational impress. Thedrugs. new palace onindicates yourself and partner. moreyour clearly the can offer help and was called Versailles. You may also feel of princes doctor magnificence of out great support, so don’t be afraid to control of your life and suffer a than their superb palaces Thean interior of Versailles, make appointment. lack of self-esteem, and these designed by Charles Lebrun, Physical are big libido-killers too. was filledIllness with furniture made Problem: General debility,by Cure: Ironically, because both in specialist workshops asthe wellfinest as specific conditions, physical activity and sexual native and foreign can affect our sex drive. for arousal can make our body artisans. Proportioned Diabetes, hyperprolactinaemia release ‘happy’ hormones, enormous rooms, pieces were (a carved rare disorder in which the sex can be good medicine for and gilded in heavy, pituitary gland is overactive), stress and depression, so try scrolling shapes, upholstered anaemia and and thyroid not to convince yourself that with velvet brocade, and disorders canexotic all cause loss it’s something you can’t enjoy inlaid with materials of such libido.asGynaecological because you’re stressed, and marble, silver, ivory, problems such asagate. fibroids and remember it may help, given lapis lazuli and There endometriosis make the chance. Most important, were fabrics can woven withsex silver

or gold thread, lavish rugs and sowalls uncomfortable while aor hung with that tapestries woman suffering fromorthese covered in marble mirror. conditions have Perhaps may moststill extreme desire sex, of allfor was theintercourse specially can be too uncomfortable to commissioned furniture and contemplate. lighting made of silver. Every Cure: Talk toofyour tiny detail this doctor grand, formal – you dismiss and shouldn’t ornate design hadyour been loss of libido asIt unimportant, considered. was utterly and nor shouldand they.immediately magnificent, became the envy of every Medication other court in Europe. Problem: Many types of medicine can potentially Fashions are forever changing, reduce libido, including however, and, inevitably, contraceptives, chemotherapy there was a reaction against the monumental style of treatments, and some Baroque. By turn of the medications forthe hypertension 18thblood century Louis XIV was (high pressure), urging apsychosis, ‘graceful and airy’ epilepsy, style on his granddaughter-indepression and HIV. SSRIs law. AfterSerotonin his deathReuptake in 1715 the (Selective court moved where Inhibitors) suchtoasParis, Fluoxetine a less ceremonial lifestyle (Prozac) and Paroxetine developed, (Seroxat) can with also smaller make itrooms and lighter furniture. Known as difficult to achieve orgasm, Rococo (because while medicines suchshells as and rocks – rocailles – featured so Cimetidine, Finasteride frequently), it was and Cyproterone canfrivolous lower and exuberant, levels. all delicate curves testosterone and ifasymmetrical lines while, Cure: your libido has overall, homes were arranged noticeably decreased since so as to be comfortable rather beginning new medication, than impressive, colours soft don’t stop taking it but do see and feminine, and patterns your doctor.The They may Rococo be able delicate. typical to home prescribe an alternative. featured elaborate Fear of pregnancy plasterwork and carved, Problem: Thisgilded can affect painted and wooden both partners, onlysilk panels, wallseven hungif with or hand-painted wallpapers subconsciously. imported from China, all Cure: It’s important to discuss reflected in ornamental family planning and makemirrors. Furniture oftenclear had aabout curving sure you’re both frontwhen and –you most typically if and want to startof all – cabriole legs. a family – and how you’re going prevent Alsotoknown as pregnancy. Louis Quinze Take time to choose right style, Rococo was the at its height contraception learn toWithin use in France in and the 1740s. it properly. confidence a decadeHaving or so, however,

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a move simplicity, in yourtowards contraception will mean combined a revival of life you can with enjoy your sex classical (the latter withoutforms the nagging worry of due to recent pregnancy. archaeological unplanned discoveries in Pompeii and Performance worries Herculaneum), gave rise to Problem: Although women another new look. England, may worry aboutIntheir sexual it was known as these neo-classical; performance, worries in France, Louis Seize. By the are more common in men. time Louis XVI ascended the Anxiety about impotence, throne in 1774 this style was erectile dysfunction and dominant, and he and his wife premature ejaculation can all Marie Antoinette were keen lead to loss of libido. patrons. Cure: See your doctor, as they While andand elegance can luxury offer help sometimes were still key –for this was,issues. medication these after all, the style of royalty Emotional and aristocrats Issues – somewhat Problem: of us think of plainer, evenFew geometric our brain as a sex organ, but designs replaced elaborate our thoughts andstraight feelings do decorations, while affect libido. Iftook we feel lines andour symmetry over resentful, neglected, bullied or from curves and arabesques. unloved, unlikely Key pieces we’re included chairsto want sex with the person making with horseshoe-shaped backs us feel that way, while a fear and tapering, column-shapedof intimacy makeand any sexual legs, stripedcan fabrics relationships If we wallpapers, anddifficult. elaborate

window treatmentsor featuring feel undesirable have low swags and tails.these Furniture wascan self-esteem, feelings grouped sociably thantoo. scare away our rather sex drive placed the books edges can of Cure:around Self-help theberoom, and even useful, but youfeatured may need comfortable, counsellingsprung-cushioned to overcome your upholstery. Although they were issues. Couples counselling stillhas often lacquered, thegilded addedorbenefit of pieces werean less visibly providing invaluable adorned, partly listener. because the independent most fashionable makers had Sexual Identity Issues started to use mahogany, a Problem: Even in today’s new (and expensive) import. society, it can be difficult for Louis Seize style could be people to express their sexual summed up by two words: orientation or identity, or admit expensive simplicity – in it to themselves. They may many ways rather like Marie start relationships they’re Antoinette’s affectation of not comfortable peasant dress.with And,and likesuffer the gender dysphoria (feeling their royal couple, it was not to last. identity match In gender 1793 Louis XVIdoesn’t and Marie their biological sex). Antoinette were guillotined. Cure: It’s important to be Two years later, the French honest withgovernment yourself about revolutionary was your feelings. established, the Discuss Directory,your concerns on a to confidential lending its name the final helpline or with your GP. phase of neo-classicism: Even if your is sky high, Directoire style,libido sparse,

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a lack of privacy or time alone with your partner can hamper your sex life, so try to make time and space for each other. NHS self-assessment tool for depression: http://www.nhs.uk/Tools/ Pages/depression.aspx The Lesbian and Gay Foundation: Lesbian, gay and bisexual helpline and services. simple and notable for its http://www.lgf.org.uk lack of ornamentation. It was 3030 the0845 end 330 of the Louis era, but these remarkable styles24hr have Beaumont Society: influenced and inspired us helpline and support for ever since. transvestites, transsexuals and IMAGES - Top Left: Versailles curved those experiencing gender luxury upholstered bed,their from £1,695, The dysphoria, and families. French Bedroom Company, 0845 644 8022; www.beaumontsociety.org.uk www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk. 01582 412220 Bottom Left: Oval swag decor wall mirror,

£21.95, Melody Maison, 01302 and 711116; Relate: Offering family www.melodymaison.co.uk couple relationship support. Above: Louis French armchair, £395; Filou http://www.relate.org.uk/ footstool, £195; both in eau de nil cotton; 03000207 100 WITHIN, 087 1234 2900, www.withinhome.com

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Beauty and the Beach by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

Bobbi Brown’s Shimmer Bricks are a bit of a cult favourite, and the new Brightening Bricks (£34) look set to become just as popular. You use them in much the same way as you would a blusher, but the multi-tones help to avoid ‘Aunt Sally’ cheeks, and make for a far more natural, youthful effect. Some For many of us, slapping on face powders can be very drying, but foundation is the last thing we fancy doing these have been designed to actually lock on a summer’s day. If you’re looking to moisture into the skin, while absorbing oil to ditch your foundation, but still want some keep shine at bay. Choose from six shades, coverage, try a Blemish Balm (BB). Similar  including coral (pictured). to a tinted moisturiser, but with added benefits, a BB cream hydrates and primes You needproperties to protectwill your be given the right to buy skin, while to evenisout Asyour I write this, the helping general election stillyour a week association homes a discount of up to 70%. skin from at the sun all year away and Labour and Conservatives are neck and their complexion. Pacifica neck with neither party looking anywhere but it’s even more Alight Multi Mineralnear around, have got in on the act as well. If elected, winning a majority. By the time you read this, hope Labour vital in the warmer months. BB Cream they would give first time buyers a stamp duty holi fully we’ll know what government is going to be If you suffer from eczema, is awho steal running the country. The only people don’t day on purchases of up to £300,000 for the first psoriasis or the other skin years of parliament. There are no indica at just have to worry about the outcome are first time three that theyyou would complaints, maywithdraw want to the Help to Buy home buyers because both parties £16.99 are targeting tions scheme; they have pledged to adapt the them with preelection giveaways. opt for instead a natural sunscreen, from www. H2B ISA so that the money invested in the that’s less likely to irritate naturisimo. The Conservatives have already brought in the schemes is used to fund building 125,000 homes your Yard theskin. next Neal’s five years. Help to Buy scheme which enablescom. themIt’s to buy over with a much smaller deposit. Newly perfect announced for is Remedies Chamomile & this focus on first time buyers to be very en Aloe Vera Moisturising the Help to Buy ISA, set to be introduced the I find creatinginthat couraging; theygets are, our aftervote. all, the blood of the autumn. The government will contribute a 25% top Sun Lotion It’slife 100% fresh-faced market and have been conspicuous by up to any savings invested in the ISA up to a maxi housing natural, has an SPF of 25, and offers both “I’ve mum of £3000. In addition, if elected, thehad Conser their absence since the financial crash. However, UVA UVB protection. At £20 eight hours they willand need homes to actually buy for and,150ml, despite vatives would build 100,000 homes on brown field it is pretty pricey, it offers additional promises of both but parties, I can’t see the num and at the sites that would be available for firstsleep time buyers bers required being Usually, built without further drastic skincare benefits. it’s best to buy a discount of 20% on market price. Potentially, always get of the planning laws. some taxes would also be waived on homes. reform a separate facial sun cream, as most body mythese five-aFinally, aspiring homeowners who live in housing creams are quite greasy, leading to spots day” glow.

Whether you’re planning a staycation, or a round the world trip, camping or a fivestar hotel stay, read on for our pick of summer beauty essentials.

Property

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and skin irritation. However, this lotion is gentle enough to be used all over, and is packed with nourishing ingredients, such as shea and coconut oils. While it is water resistant, it’s unlikely to survive a full on swim in the sea, so do remember to reapply it regularly. Ah the joys of trying to fit all of your makeup and toiletries into your suitcase. Travel sized versions of your favourite toiletries can be much more expensive, per millilitre, than their big sisters. A cheaper option is to invest in some refillable bottles. Do make sure that at least some of them are under 100ml, if you want to keep them in your hand luggage when flying.

Some sets even come complete with a see through bag, so there’s no faffing around for a plastic bag at the airport check-in. We like The Body Shop’s Travel Kit, £7, which has three bottles, two jars and a handy spatula. Miniatures are, however, a great way to try new skincare ranges without forking out for a full sized product that might not suit your skin. If you’re looking to treat yourself to a new travel washbag to house all your new goodies, we’re lusting after the Orla Kiely Large Washbag in Floating Flower, which has three separate compartments and a hook to hang it up. Treat yourself for £32 at www.Cuckooland.com.

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Zoe Hart FP+ (Jun15)_Layout 1 25/05/2015 12:18 Page 1

Music Review  by Zoe Hart

ZOE HART an international club DJ since 1999, turned Childrens Entertainer in 2012. She is also a qualified yoga teacher and EI and mindfulness practitioner. Her company ‘Hart Entertainments’ provides quality conscious discos for children of all ages in the Bucks, Middlesex and West London areas.

Hi, I’m Zoe and I run a local children’s disco service. 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!

www.zoehart.co.uk - 07747 063 149

This month’s favourite SEE YOU AGAIN – Wiz Khalifa feat. Charlie Puth

CHEERLEADER (Felix Jaehn Remix) – OMI

It’s talking about the bond created between friends and how it can turn into love and family. It’s track 7 from the movie ‘Fast & Furious 7’ and a tribute to one of the movies actors Paul Walker. Not so dancey, would suit later in the evening at an adult disco rather than SONG VIDEO a kids event. 0+ 7+ I REALLY LIKE YOU - Carly Rae Jepsen 29 year old Candian singer, well known for ‘Call Me Maybe’ presents a song that has been described as "bubblegum", a potential major smash 'if handled correctly', and very '1989esque'. The video is pretty funny with SONG VIDEO Tom Hanks lip syncing all the way.

Hooray for this current number 1! Very catchy for all age groups. It’s a great club dance track that’s actually focused on how great it is to be with one person, his queen, his cheerleader. Great message. Left my daughter and I feeling really good about ourselves SONG VIDEO and wanting to get up and dance.

WHERE ARE U NOW Jack U (Skrillex & Diplo) feat. Justin Bieber Really love this bassline. Bieber is fundamentally a good Christian boy who lost his way last year. Let’s hope this year he can sort out that behaviour ‘cos there are so many kids who AGE just adore him. 13+ FIRESTONE – Kygo feat. Conrad

ALL CRIED OUT Blonde feat. Alex Newell Generic poppy rubbish. Doesn’t uplift or inspire. The video is simply a demonstration of money and if I were to break up with my partner it’s not how I would handle it or the song I would choose to listen to. But then I’m not SONG VIDEO a troubled American teenager.

13+ 16+

LEAN ON Major Lazer feat. MØ & DJ Snake Teenage blah blah blah. Lyrically. Like the beat, but the reference to ﬁring a gun is inappropriate, as is her outﬁt choice in the AGE video. 16+

Sunshine club house anthem. Will prove popular in Ibiza no doubt. Nothing inappropriate here, but a bit slow for kids.

AGE

TROUBLE Iggy Azalea feat. Jennifer Hudson Nice bit of hip hop to ﬁnish on this month. No explicit lyrics but the video is not for the young.

SONG

VIDEO

16+

I Would love to hear what your sunny choices are, let me know here: zoe@zoehart.co.uk

References: Wikipedia.co.uk, azlyrics.com, whosay.com, songfacts.com, directlyrics.com, vevo.

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Zoe

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holidays

In and Around

Call 01895 83 33 33 for bookings and information Holidays oﬀered by GN Holidays & Voyages Higher Denham ABTA NoY0291 •ATOL 9362

Escorted & River Cruise: www.gnvoyages.co.uk Coach Breaks: www.gnholidays.com Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays Closed Bank Holiday weekends.



8 DAYS FULL BOARD

£699PP FROM

B L

 Rhine & Moselle River Cruise by Rail or Air

Andernach, Cochem, Boppard, Rudesheim, Koblenz & Konigswinter 2 October, 2015; 10 July & 28 August, 2016 • Quote RH/RL-IA

Join us for a relaxing river cruise taking-in the majestic Rhine and Moselle Valleys where we visit Andernach, Cochem, Boppard, Rudesheim, Koblenz and Konigswinter. Travel by rail or air to join the cruise in Cologne. Our river cruiser, the MV Prinses Christina, will host you in comfort and style including breakfast, lunch, dinner and late snacks. INCLUDED: Escorted throughout • Return rail travel from London St Pancras or Ebbsfleet to Brussels with coach transfer to Cologne or return flights with luggage from a choice of UK airports to Cologne - supp’t may apply • 7-night full-board cruise sharing a twin bed outside cabin on Cabin Deck - upgrades available • Transfers abroad

Free Drinks Private Charter

5 DAYS FULL BOARD-PLUS

V p I f w c •

B &

£699PP FROM

J M a

I • •

New Year Party & Festive Markets River Cruise by Rail or Air • Liege, Maastricht, Nijmegen, Dordrecht & Rotterdam

R F

Departs 29 December, 2015 - Quote NY12-IA Celebrate the New Year in style on board the MS Johannes Brahms, sailing from Liege in Belgium to Holland including stops at Maastricht, Nijmegen, Dordrecht and Rotterdam where we count down to 2016 with a New Year party on board and a spectacular fireworks display over the city’s Erasmus Bridge. Also enjoy festive markets in Liege & Maastricht and a candlelit New Year’s day cruise in Rotterdam. INCLUDED: Escorted throughout abroad • Return rail travel from St Pancras or Ebbsfleet to Brussels or return flights with luggage from a choice of UK airports to Brussels or Amsterdam - supp’t may apply • 4 nights full board cruise on the MS Johannes Brahms sharing a twin bed MR2 rear cabin on main deck - upgrades available • Beer, wine by the glass, and soft drinks served at lunch and dinner and from lunchtime to midnight at the bar • Entertainment • Transfers abroad • GN Host and Cruise Director on board • Captain’s Dinner

E c d I h t c

Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough Bournemouth Air Show & Luxury Barbecue Brunch

Prince Charles’ Private Garden at Highgrove & Lunch

Thursday 20 August, 2015 - Quote BA8-2-IA

Thursday 17 September 2015 - Quote HI9-IA

GREAT DAY OUT

 £89

GREAT DAY OUT

£89PP

View one of Britain’s best air shows from our private hotel with a luxury Barbecue Brunch. INCLUDED: Birds-eye view of the Bournemouth Air Show from the art-deco Cumberland Hotel • Luxury BBQ Brunch with seafood buffet, strawberries & cream or homemade chocolate brownie • Glass of Champagne or Kir Royale • Glass of House wine or fruit juice • Return coach travel

Learn the secrets of Prince Charles’ private garden

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market & Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre

Best of 60s and 70s Christmas Party at Warner Norton Grange, Isle of Wight

Saturday 28 November, 2015 - Quote BG11-IA

2 DAYS HALF BOARD

£99PP Join us for a visit to Birmingham’s German Christmas Market - the largest out door festive market in the UK and Worcester’s Victorian Christmas Fayre.

at Highgrove and enjoy lunch at a country pub. INCLUDED: 2-hour guided tour of Prince Charles’ private garden at Highgrove • 2-course lunch at the Hare and Hounds Hotel, Tetbury • Return coach travel

Friday 27 November, 2015 - Quote XN11-2-IA

4 DAYS SEMI ALL INCLUSIVE

£279PP Great entertainment, including original 60s band Edison Lighthouse, plus Tom Jones and Dusty Springfield tributes, plus free drinks every evening.

INCLUDED: 1 night stay at the Hilton Hotel, Bromsgrove • 1 dinner and 1 breakfast • Christmas Market visits • Coach travel and excursions

INCLUDED: Free drinks from 6pm to midnight nightly - house beers & spirits, wine by the glass, pumped soft drinks & mixers • Full entertainment programme • 3 nights en-suite chalet - upgrades available • 3 dinners and 3 breakfasts • Coach travel and excursions

River Avon Christmas Lunch Cruise & Festive Stratford upon Avon

A Very High Tea!! Spinnaker Tower & Gunwharf Quays Christmas Shopper

Thursdays: 3 & 10 December, 2015 - Quote FS12-1/2-IA

Wednesday 9 December, 2015 - Quote SP12-IA

GREAT DAY OUT

£69PP

Enjoy a River Avon cruise with a traditional 3course Christmas lunch and see Stratford upon Avon decorated and lit for Christmas. INCLUDED: Free time in Stratford-upon-Avon • 3hour cruise on the Countess of Evesham • 3-course traditional Christmas lunch on-board - starter, main course and dessert • Return coach travel

Enjoy a Great Day Out in Portsmouth including free time in Gunwharf Quays and High Tea with a great view. INCLUDED: High Tea with a glass of Prosecco at the Café in the Clouds - 105 metres up the Spinnaker Tower • Free time in Gunwharf Quays • Return coach travel 

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Recruiting NOW Foster carers and  adopters needed  

Find out more at our information events Tuesday 9 June, 6.30pm to 8.30pm Civic Centre, Uxbridge UB8 1UW Tuesday 21 July, 11am to 1pm Emmanuel Church, High Street, Northwood HA6 1AS

Book your place today

Please arrive five minutes before the start time.

fost-adopt@ hillingdon.gov.uk 0800 783 1298

www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fost-adopt 

holidays

In and Around

Call 01895 83 33 33 for bookings and information Holidays oﬀered by GN Holidays & Voyages Higher Denham ABTA NoY0291 •ATOL 9362

Escorted & River Cruise: www.gnvoyages.co.uk Coach Breaks: www.gnholidays.com Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays Closed Bank Holiday weekends.



8 DAYS FULL BOARD

£699PP FROM

 

B L

 Rhine & Moselle River Cruise by Rail or Air

Andernach, Cochem, Boppard, Rudesheim, Koblenz & Konigswinter 2 October, 2015; 10 July & 28 August, 2016 • Quote RH/RL-IA

Free Drinks Private Charter

5 DAYS FULL BOARD-PLUS

V p I f w c •

B &

£699PP FROM

J M a

I • •

New Year Party & Festive Markets River Cruise by Rail or Air • Liege, Maastricht, Nijmegen, Dordrecht & Rotterdam

R F

E c d I h t c

Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough Bournemouth Air Show & Luxury Barbecue Brunch

Prince Charles’ Private Garden at Highgrove & Lunch

Thursday 20 August, 2015 - Quote BA8-2-IA

Thursday 17 September 2015 - Quote HI9-IA

GREAT DAY OUT

 £89

GREAT DAY OUT

£89PP

Learn the secrets of Prince Charles’ private garden

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market & Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre

Best of 60s and 70s Christmas Party at Warner Norton Grange, Isle of Wight

Saturday 28 November, 2015 - Quote BG11-IA

2 DAYS HALF BOARD

£99PP Join us for a visit to Birmingham’s German Christmas Market - the largest out door festive market in the UK and Worcester’s Victorian Christmas Fayre.

Friday 27 November, 2015 - Quote XN11-2-IA

4 DAYS SEMI ALL INCLUSIVE

£279PP Great entertainment, including original 60s band Edison Lighthouse, plus Tom Jones and Dusty Springfield tributes, plus free drinks every evening.

INCLUDED: 1 night stay at the Hilton Hotel, Bromsgrove • 1 dinner and 1 breakfast • Christmas Market visits • Coach travel and excursions

River Avon Christmas Lunch Cruise & Festive Stratford upon Avon

A Very High Tea!! Spinnaker Tower & Gunwharf Quays Christmas Shopper

Thursdays: 3 & 10 December, 2015 - Quote FS12-1/2-IA

Wednesday 9 December, 2015 - Quote SP12-IA

GREAT DAY OUT

£69PP

Hobbies  A Hobby That’s  Worth Droning  On About  By Kate McLelland When a tiny quadcopter flew too close to a passenger plane last year, it sparked a huge row about the recreational use of drones. The unmanned aerial vehicle (or UAV) came within only 25 metres (82 feet) of the plane as it landed at Southend Airport in Essex, raising questions about safety. But in spite of all the controversy, these little machines have seen a stratospheric rise in popularity.

saved further loss of life but these large, expensive, jetpowered craft proved hard to recover and many were lost during operations.

Drones may be the latest gadget-of-choice but pilotless flying vehicles have a long and surprising history. In 1849 the Austrians launched an unmanned bomb attack on Venice, using balloons (as planes were yet to be invented) but the attack was largely unsuccessful. No-one took much interest in military drones until World War I, when the Dayton-Wright Airplane Company devised a pilotless airborne torpedo that could explore at a pre-arranged time.

These hovering flying machines are used for everything from military surveillance of battle zones to examining archaeological sites from the air. They have transformed the art of aerial photography, snapping images that would have previously been impossible to capture by conventional means.

The first remote-controlled pilotless aircraft was invented in 1935 and World War II saw the use of UAVs on both sides, but when the US Air Force lost over 5,000 airmen in the Vietnam Answers War, drones began to be used Page 18They undoubtedly extensively. 

It wasn’t until the technological advances of the 1980s and 1990s – allowing for computerisation and miniaturisation of the systems on board – that UAVs developed the kind of flexibility and range that we find in today’s models.

As the cost of manufacturing small UAVs has dropped in recent years, their popularity has soared. Last Christmas they topped just about every ‘must-have’ gift list: when online supplier Website Appliances Direct sold out its bestselling model in less than seven days, it had to order 5,000 more from China. Selfridges also claims to have sold more than 100,000 tiny Q4 Nano drones via its Red

5 concession. With sales figures set to climb even higher in the run-up to Christmas 2015, it looks as though the buzzing of flies in parks and rural areas will soon be replaced by the buzzing of drones. But if you are thinking of buying one for yourself or a family member, be warned, as you can incur some pretty hefty penalties if you let your drone infringe airspace regulations. The Air Navigation Order states that no unmanned craft can be flown within 50 metres of a person, vehicle or building – unless the people, vehicles or buildings in question are “under your control”. That means even that flying a drone in your own back garden is not permitted unless your neighbour’s property is at least 50m away. If you’re in a public space, such as a park, you are not allowed to fly within 150m of any “congested area” and you must avoid filming in places such as sports fields where crowds are gathered. Even though you may be able to receive live, streamed video from the drone’s location, you must not let it stray out of your line of sight. Businesses that want to use a

drone for commercial purposes must apply for a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority before they attempt a flight close to people or property. There are obvious health and safety risks if a drone is mishandled or breaks down in mid-air and the British Airline Pilots’ Association recently commented: “It’s not just the weight of the device that could cause injury (imagine being hit on the head by a frozen chicken dropped from fifty feet), they are equipped with numerous spinning blades.” A number of recreational users have already been convicted for offences that include flying too close to the rides at Alton Towers and photographing Devonshire landscapes without the landowner’s consent. It cost one man over £4,000 in fines and court fees when his UAV flew near a road bridge and

over a nuclear installation. If you’re still keen to own a drone you can pick up a fly-only model from under £30. A more advanced device, which lets you steer from a smartphone or tablet while a camera streams live images or records video footage, will cost around £250£300.

 

As long as the rules and regulations are observed, you’ll get hours of enjoyment from flying these clever little gadgets, but do set aside some time to master the techniques you’ll need before you attempt that perfect bird’s eye view shot.

your first flight: avoid windy conditions and operate the drone in a park or grassy field well away from people, animals and parked cars. Turn off your mobile phone and try not to let other distractions affect your concentration. With a bit of practice, you’ll soon be flying like a pro, but just remember: if your expensive UAV ends up in a tree, just don’t go droning on about it…

Here are some basic rules to follow when you attempt

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Beauty and the Beach  by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

 

Whether you’re planning a staycation, or a round the world trip, camping or a fivestar hotel stay, read on for our pick of summer beauty essentials.

For many of us, slapping on foundation is the last thing we fancy doing on a summer’s day. If you’re looking to ditch your foundation, but still want some coverage, try a Blemish Balm (BB). Similar to a tinted moisturiser, but with added benefits, a BB cream hydrates and primes your skin, while helping to even out your complexion. Pacifica Alight Multi Mineral BB Cream is a steal at just £16.99 from www. naturisimo. com. It’s perfect for creating that fresh-faced “I’ve had eight hours sleep and always get my five-aday” glow. 

 

 

Home & Interiors Health

The Kings of Bling By Katherine Sorrell Loss of Libido By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk or gold thread, lavish rugs and so uncomfortable that while walls hung with tapestries or a womaninsuffering these covered marble orfrom mirror. conditions still have Perhaps mostmay extreme intercourse of desire all wasfor thesex, specially can be too uncomfortable commissioned furniture and to contemplate. lighting made of silver. Every to your doctor tinyCure: detailTalk of this grand, formal – you shouldn’t your and ornate design dismiss had been loss of libido as unimportant, considered. It was utterly and nor should they. magnificent, and immediately became the envy of every Medication other court inMany Europe. Problem: types of medicine potentially Fashions arecan forever changing, reduce and, libido, including however, inevitably, contraceptives, chemotherapy there was a reaction against thetreatments, monumental style of and some Baroque. By theforturn of the medications hypertension 18th century XIV was (high bloodLouis pressure), urging a ‘graceful and airy’ epilepsy, psychosis, style on his granddaughter-indepression and HIV. SSRIs law. After his Serotonin death in 1715 the (Selective Reuptake court moved to Paris, where Inhibitors) such as Fluoxetine a less ceremonial lifestyle (Prozac) and Paroxetine developed, rooms (Seroxat)with can smaller also make it and lightertofurniture. difficult achieve Known orgasm,as Rococo (because shells and while medicines such as rocks – rocailles – featured so Cimetidine, Finasteride frequently), it was frivolous and and Cyproterone can lower exuberant, all delicate testosterone levels. curves and asymmetrical lines while, Cure: if your libido has overall, homes were arranged noticeably decreased since so as to be comfortable rather beginning new medication, than impressive, colours soft don’t stop taking it but do see and feminine, and patterns your doctor. They Rococo may be able delicate. The typical to prescribe alternative. home featured an elaborate Fear of pregnancy plasterwork and carved, Problem: This can affect painted and gilded wooden both partners, even only panels, walls hung withifsilk or subconsciously. hand-painted wallpapers imported from China, all Cure: It’s important to discuss reflected in ornamental mirrors. family planning and make Furniture oftenboth had clear a curving sure you’re about front andwhen – most typically all if and you want toofstart – cabriole a family legs. – and how you’re going to prevent pregnancy. Also known as Louis Quinze Take time towas choose right style, Rococo at itsthe height contraception and learn to use in France in the 1740s. Within it properly. Having confidence a decade or so, however,

   Modern life is busy and sometimes that means that sex takes a back seat, The French kings the however much we of might 17th 18th centuries wishand it otherwise. But there had enormous influence may also be times when we care less if sex is in oncouldn’t aristocratic interiors. theelegance, car at all, let aloneand what For luxury seat it’s in.look So why we splendour, no do further sometimes suffer from a low than the styles of Louis sex drive – and what can we XIV, XV and our XVI, writes do to make libido bounce Katherine Sorrell back?

Exhaustion, Stress and The year: 1681. The place: theDepression royal court in France. And, Problem: problems according to These King Louis XIV, can all your energy known asaffect the Sun King, whoand hormone levels, and had assumed power twoyour years ability‘There to relax and concentrate earlier: is nothing that on yourself yourthe partner. indicates moreand clearly You may also feel out of magnificence of great princes control your life and suffer a than their of superb palaces lack of self-esteem, and these are big libido-killers too. Cure: Ironically, because both physical activity and sexual arousal can make our body release ‘happy’ hormones, sex can be good medicine for stress and depression, so try not to convince yourself that it’s something you can’t enjoy because you’re stressed, and remember it may help, given the chance. Most important, 

however, is discovering and tackling the causes. Ask your doctor for advice, particularly if the causes aren’t clear. Exhaustion may be a symptom of an illness such as anaemia, or an underactive thyroid, and your doctor may suggest and their precious furniture.’ medication, counselling or The king was inspired to can all various therapies that adapt a smallifhunting lodge or be helpful you’re stressed justdepressed. outside Paris, extend it, and fill it with jaw-droppingly Smoking, Drugsand and splendid decoration Alcohol all in order to furnishings, Problem: Using drugs and glorify his monarchy. Its style drinking morethe units of alcohol was, of course, most than the possible, recommended up-to-date a new‘safe maximum’ can your sex fashion known as lower Baroque drive, and smoking - dramatically dazzlingcan andaffect both desire and performance opulent, epitomised by jewelcan reduce blood likebecause colours,itlarge furniture in flow. shapes, trompe l’oeil bulbous Cure: Reduce your alcohol paintwork and glittering silver, intake, give uptosmoking gold and crystal surpriseand avoid recreational drugs. Your and impress. The new palace doctor can offer help and was called Versailles. support, so don’t be afraid to The interior of Versailles, make an appointment. designed by Charles Lebrun, Physical was filled withIllness furniture made Problem:workshops General debility, in specialist by well native as specific conditions, theasfinest and foreign can affect our sex drive. artisans. Proportioned for Diabetes, hyperprolactinaemia enormous rooms, pieces were (a rare disorder in heavy, which the carved and gilded in pituitary gland is overactive), scrolling shapes, upholstered anaemia andbrocade, thyroid and with velvet and disorders can all cause loss inlaid with exotic materials of libido. Gynaecological such as marble, silver, ivory, problems such as fibroids lapis lazuli and agate. There and endometriosis canwith make sex were fabrics woven silver

move towards simplicity, in a your contraception will mean combined with a revival you can enjoy your sex lifeof classical (the latterof without the forms nagging worry due to recent archaeological unplanned pregnancy. discoveries inworries Pompeii and Performance Herculaneum), gave rise to Problem: Although women another look. England, may worry new about theirInsexual it was known as neo-classical; performance, these worries France, Louis Seize. By the areinmore common in men. time Louis XVI ascended the Anxiety about impotence, throne in 1774 this style was erectile dysfunction and dominant, and he and his wife premature ejaculation can all Marie Antoinette were keen lead to loss of libido. patrons. Cure: See your doctor, as they While andsometimes elegance can offerluxury help and were still for keythese – thisissues. was, medication after all, the style of royalty Emotional Issues and aristocrats – somewhat Problem: Few of us think of plainer, even geometric ourdesigns brain as a sex but replacedorgan, elaborate ourdecorations, thoughts and feelings do while straight affect libido. If we feel linesour and symmetry took over resentful, neglected, bullied or from curves and arabesques. unloved, we’reincluded unlikely chairs to want Key pieces sex with the person making us with horseshoe-shaped backs feel that way, while a fear of and tapering, column-shaped intimacy can make anyand sexual legs, striped fabrics relationships If we wallpapers,difficult. and elaborate

window treatments featuring feel undesirable or have low swags andthese tails. Furniture was self-esteem, feelings can grouped than scare awaysociably our sex rather drive too. placed aroundbooks the edges Cure: Self-help can of room, bethe useful, butand youeven mayfeatured need comfortable, sprung-cushioned counselling to overcome your upholstery. Although they were issues. Couples counselling still gilded or lacquered, has theoften added benefit of pieces were less visibly providing an invaluable adorned, partly because the independent listener. most fashionable makers had Sexual Issues a startedIdentity to use mahogany, Problem: Even in today’s new (and expensive) import. society, it can be difficult for Louis Seize style could be people to express their sexual summed up by two words: orientation or identity, or admit expensive simplicity – in it to themselves. They may many ways rather like Marie start relationships they’re of not Antoinette’s affectation comfortable with and peasant dress. And,suffer like the gender (feeling their royal dysphoria couple, it was not to last. gender identity match In 1793 Louisdoesn’t XVI and Marie their biological sex). Antoinette were guillotined. Cure: important to French be TwoIt’s years later, the honest with yourself about was revolutionary government your feelings. Discuss your established, the Directory, concerns on a confidential lending its name to the final helpline your GP. phaseor ofwith neo-classicism: Even if your libido sky high, Directoire style, is sparse,

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The Lesbian and Gay Foundation: Lesbian, gay and bisexual helpline and services. simple and notable for its http://www.lgf.org.uk lack of ornamentation. It was 0845 the330 end3030 of the Louis era, but these remarkable Beaumont Society: styles 24hr have influenced and inspired helpline and support for us ever since. transsexuals and transvestites,

IMAGES - Top Left: Versailles curved those experiencing gender luxury upholstered bed,families. from £1,695, The dysphoria, and their French Bedroom Company, 0845 644 8022; www.beaumontsociety.org.uk www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk. 01582 412220 Bottom Left: Oval swag decor wall mirror,

Melodyfamily Maison, and 01302 711116; Relate:£21.95, Offering www.melodymaison.co.uk couple relationship support. Above: Louis French armchair, £395; Filou http://www.relate.org.uk/ footstool, £195; both in eau de nil cotton; 0300 1000207 1234 WITHIN, 087 2900, www.withinhome.com

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 Finance  Saving for Children  What are the Best Options? By Ann Haldon Children’s savings accounts provide a great way to build a nest egg for later life, perhaps for driving lessons or to fund a gap year, and are a good way to introduce the subject of money management. Putting some of their pocket money away each week encourages good financial habits, and teaches children the mechanics and rewards of saving - why they might have to wait before they buy something, plus the benefits of gaining compound interest through long-term saving. We look at three savings options below that could be ideal for your child. These are products that incorporate a range of features and benefits, including tax-free status, instant access, and longer savings terms. So let’s start with a product that was first introduced in 2011:

Junior ISAs

Junior ISAs are available to children under the age of 18 who don’t already have a Child Trust Fund. New legislation has recently been introduced to allow the transfer of monies from a Child Trust Fund into a Junior ISA, however, and this change took effect from April 2015. 

The contribution limit for a Junior ISA is £4,080 for the 2015-16 tax year, and there are two types of account available: • Cash Junior ISA: offering tax-free interest and instant access • Stocks and Shares Junior ISA: cash is invested in stocks and shares, with no tax paid on dividends or capital growth Children are entitled to open one of each of these accounts, and although parents or guardians can open and manage them, the money belongs to the child. Withdrawals by children are not allowed until they turn 18, but they can manage their own accounts when they reach 16 years of age. The Junior ISA will be in the child’s name, but parents and guardians opening the account are the ‘registered contacts’ as far as the bank or building society is concerned.

NS&I Children’s Bonds

These are tax-free investments that run for a 5-year term. They can be purchased by a parent, guardian, grandparent or great grandparent on behalf of a child, and each ‘issue’ has its own guaranteed rate of interest which is paid at the end of the

term. The minimum investment amount for these Bonds is £25, with £3,000 being the maximum amount allowed per issue. Once the 5-year term is complete, bonds can be rolled over for another term, up until the child is 16 years of age. They can be cashed in early, but doing so attracts a penalty of 90 days’ interest. As with the Junior ISA, the money belongs to the child rather than the parent. Interest is calculated daily and added to the account each year, so that the child also benefits from compound interest.

Children’s Savings Accounts These types of account can be opened with as little as £1, with most bank and building societies offering at least one savings account for children. In most cases money can be withdrawn with no notice. Tax is paid at 20% on children’s savings accounts, but it is normally possible to reclaim the money using Form R40. Better still, use Form R85 to have the interest paid tax-free from the outset. These forms can be downloaded from the HM

Revenue and Customs website, or you can pick up an R85 form at the bank or building society holding the account. A note of caution about tax If parents give their child money which subsequently earns interest of more than £100 in a tax year, the money will be taxed as though it belonged to the parent. This rule isn’t applicable to Junior ISAs or Children’s Bonds, however. Once a child reaches the age of seven they may be able to manage the account themselves, which is a great way for them to learn how to deal with their money. There are two different types of children’s savings accounts, and you can open more than one: • Easy access: the interest rate will probably be lower

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with an easy or instant access account, but money can be withdrawn or deposited with no restrictions. These accounts are popular with children as many of them offer free gifts, including piggy banks and toys. • Regular savings: interest rates will be slightly higher for this type of account, but money is not accessible and you need to make regular monthly deposits into the account. If any payments are missed you may suffer a

reduction of interest. Which savings account you choose for your child depends on your own circumstances. The Junior ISA has proven to be very popular, and the new legislation regarding transfer of monies from a Child Trust Fund to a Junior ISA opens up the product to more people. If you asked a child which account they would prefer, it’s highly likely that they would choose whichever one offered a free gift. With this in mind, maybe the best solution is to open one account to keep them happy and another that provides a better rate of interest. https://www.gov.uk/juniorindividual-savings-accounts/ open-an-account http://www.nsandi.com/ childrens-bonds

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Pets Corner... (Jun15)_Layout 1 25/05/2015 13:15 Page 1

Ear Disease... DOES your pet show signs of head shaking and ear scratching or rubbing? They may have ear disease. These are the most obvious signs of external ear disease also known as Otitis Externa. These symptoms may be associated with an unpleasant smelling discharge and as those of us unfortunate to have had earache will know it can be painful, so your pet may also be quiet and miserable or even show signs of unusual aggression.

skin problems elsewhere especially on the feet, groin and belly. Local treatment may help temporarily but more often long term relief involves identifying and treating the underlying allergy.

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The outer ear (the external canal) is protected by the ear flap or pinna but unlike in humans goes down vertically in dogs and cats before turning horizontally in an l-shape towards the ear drum. This ‘well effect’ increases the risk of Otitis and makes it is difficult to see right down the ear without a special instrument known as an otoscope so you may miss the early signs. If there is an obvious discharge the problem is probably already long standing. A common cause of Otitis Externa in dogs and cats as well as rabbits is ear mites (Otocariasis). Ear mites can only be caught directly from another animal so this is mainly a problem in puppies and kittens especially if they’ve come from a disreputable breeder or pet shop. In dogs and cats there is a characteristic brown discharge whereas in rabbits it is often creamy and can be very painful. Otocariasis is easy to diagnose by looking for mites on a swab taken from the ear under a microscope but is often associated with a secondary bacterial infection. Fortunately it is easy to cure with correct treatment using the same precautions as for ear infections. Foreign bodies, usually grass awns, are a common cause of Otitis in dogs, especially long-coated breeds with floppy pinnas. The onset of symptoms is usually sudden after a walk in long grass in the summer. Sedation is often needed to remove the offending awn via an otoscope. Allergic dermatitis (atopy) is a common cause of Otitis in dogs and can often be overlooked even by vets. Usually however only the pinna is affected rather than the ear canal and it is normally, but not always, associated with 

Some ear infections occur for no obvious reason but water is a common factor after swimming or bathing especially in floppy eared dogs. Infections can be caused by a variety of bacteria and a yeast (Malassezia) and are usually treated with ear drops. It is important that the cause is correctly identified by full examination and, if indicated, swabs for culture. Followup examination, and if necessary ongoing cleaning, is essential. If not treated properly Otitis can become chronic and difficult to cure.

M C Atkinson BVSc MRCVs www.stmartinsvetclinic.com

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Making A Pest Of Themselves by Pippa Greenwood

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They might be small but aphids (also widely known as greenfly and blackfly) can do an awful lot of damage to just about every plant in your garden - and greenhouse, conservatory and windowsill for that matter. They are one of the most common and widespread garden pests, with more than five hundred different species found in the United Kingdom alone. Greenfly and blackfly vary massively in colour, from green or black to grey, yellow, pink, brown or khaki. The majority are about 2mm long

Most damage is done throughout spring and summer but there are aphids feeding somewhere pretty well throughout the year. In sheltered parts of your garden, especially in the warmer counties or in greenhouses and conservatories, some can be found even during the cooler winter months. So what makes these tiny pests so successful and so damaging to our precious plants? The main reason is that they can breed rapidly and so their numbers build up incredibly fast and this is often done asexually or without need of a male. For much of the year females are predominant and 

give birth to huge numbers of genetically identical offspring. I always think of this as like a Russian doll – inside a female aphid there will be young aphid, and inside this there will be an aphid embryo. Later in the season male aphids may be produced and these then mate with the females.

The symptoms they cause vary, but include leaf yellowing or other brightly coloured discolouration, puckering, poor growth and stunting. As they feed on plants, aphids may transmit virus infections, so virus symptoms may develop too. The plant sap on which the aphids feed has an extremely high sugar content; in fact it is so sugary that the aphids cannot digest it all, so their excreta is very sticky and sugary. This is called ‘honeydew’ and you may have noticed it beneath aphid-infested plants such as lime trees or as a sticky layer on roses and other plants. Because it is so sugary, honeydew attracts harmless black ‘sooty moulds’ which make the leaves look as if someone has sprinkled soot on them. As aphids increase in size they shed their skins and the cast skins are often easy to spot on host plants – they look rather like the

discarded pyjamas often seen on a teenager’s bedroom floor! If you grow roses you’ll have discovered that there are several species of aphid which may attack them, often forming dense colonies on shoot tips, new leaf growth and flower buds. These aphids are mostly green, pinkish or yellowish in colour and up to 3mm long. There is usually a lot of honeydew followed by sooty mould, as well as stunting and distortion of the leaves. If vegetables are more your thing then you may see the black bean aphid as it forms dense colonies especially at the shoot tips and beneath the leaves of broad beans in the spring, which causes weakening and a huge drop in the number of those tasty pods. It also attacks globe artichokes, dahlias, poppies and nasturtiums. In the spring the aphid feeds on Philadelphus and Viburnum. If you pinch out the aphidencrusted shoot tips on beans the problem is often solved. Another common one is the woolly aphid which attacks apple trees and is also often seen on ornamental Malus such as crab apples,

pyracantha and cotoneaster. Colonies of the aphid covered with white, waxy, fluffy fibres develop on the bark, especially near pruning cuts on older stems, or on younger stems where they also cause swellings on the stem. Another common problem on fruit is the currant Blister Aphid, a small, pale green aphid which feeds beneath the leaves, mostly of redcurrants, with pale yellow or reddish blisters forming in spring and summer. It is pretty well impossible to garden without aphids causing some grief – I for one have never managed it. So what can you do? There are a number of different ways that you can reduce aphid numbers in your garden or greenhouse. Encouraging naturally occurring predators such as blue tits, ladybirds,

hoverflies and lacewings will all help. In some situations it is also worth introducing biological controls and these work especially well in an enclosed area such as a greenhouse or conservatory but will often have a noticeable effect in warmer summers outside too. Aphid predators such as the larva of the midge Aphidoletes and even ladybirds, can all be purchased, as can the tiny parasitic wasp Aphidius. Ladybirds (available as native British ladybird adults or as their young or larvae from my website, www. pippagreenwood.com) are perfect for using on aphid outbreaks anywhere in the garden from pots and borders to hanging baskets and hedges. The great thing with these is that, once

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established they will start to breed, multiply and add to the natural ladybird population. There are a number of different chemicals (including organic or ‘green’ ones such as those based on fatty acids or plant oils) available for controlling aphid pests too, but not all are suitable for use on every plant, so check the label carefully before buying or using, and always follow the instructions carefully. Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood. com for ladybirds and other biocontrols to control greenfly, Nemaslug, brilliant weeders, pop-up crop covers, copper tape and lots more besides.

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WD What's On... Apr15_Layout 1 27/03/2015 14:53 Page 1

HOBBIES...

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Afternoon Leisure Painting Monday 2pm to 4pm and Wednesday 1.30pm to 3.30pm. The advanced and fundamental concepts of art in any media. Enthusiastic people welcome. Southlands Arts Centre 01895 632171

Crafty Cards Have fun creating your own cards. 2nd and 4th Friday, 10am to 12noon. Contact 01753 652 459 Craft Evening Group Tuesday 7.30pm. Members own projects and workshops to share experience and further skills at Southlands Arts Centre. Tel: 01895 442980 Handicraft - Morning Group Tuesday 10am to 12 noon, needlecraft and any handicraft with material. Paper 3D decoupage, patchwork, cross stitch, soft toys etc., at Southlands Arts Centre. Tel: 01895 442910

Knit & Knatterers Hand and Machine Knitting, Crochet 2nd & 4th Monday of the month 7.309.30pm at Southlands Arts Centre. Tel: 01895 421777 Les Artists - Evening Wednesday 7.30pm to 9.30pm. A mixed ability class for still life, portraiture etc. All welcome at Southlands Arts Centre. 0208 797 4635

Outline Theatre Group At St. Matthews Church, Yiewsley. Every Tuesday 7.30-9.30pm. All welcome from 8yrs+. See www.outlinetheatre. co.uk or call Robert Jones on 01895 446352 Painting Group - Morning Tues 10am-1pm. Experienced watercolorists very welcome at Southlands Arts Centre. Tel: 01895 421328 Spinning & Weavers Group Tues 7.30-9.30pm at Southlands Arts Centre. Tel: 01895 443481

Harlington Locomotive Society Every Thursday, 8pm at the club in High The Language Clubs of Hillingdon Street, Harlington, Hayes, Middlesex From late Sept until mid-July. Visitors UB3 5ET. For details call Peter Tarrant welcome, Speak some German, on 01895 851168 Spanish, French or Italian? Want to practise speaking and listening in Hillingdon Family History Society friendly groups, with recent learners, At Hillingdon Park Baptist Church, improvers & native speakers? Join a Hercies Road, Hillingdon. Research Language Club! Each Club meets on a room open (10am-1pm) every Fri (except the Fri before the first Sat of the different Thursday of the month at 7.45 pm in St Giles' Church Hall, Swakeleys month). On the first Sat of the month Road, Ickenham UB10 8BG. For details: open 10am-1pm at Uxbridge Library. German Club 01895 254 723; Italian Experienced help available. See Club 020 8863 3468; Spanish Club and www.hfhs.co.uk . Contact Mrs P. French Club 01895 253 472 Reynolds 01895 444442 or email hillingdonfhs@onetel.com Uxbridge Craft Market Hillingdon Railway Modellers Club Every Wednesday (9am-5pm) at The Meet every Thursday, 7.30pm at Pavilions Shopping Centre Arts, Crafts, Yiewsley Baptist Church. Contact Gifts and Collectables tonymoth@Hotmail.co.uk www.uxbridge-craft-market.co.uk Hillingdon Natural History Society West Drayton & District Meets 1st wed of the month at the History Society Scout HQ, Gatting Way, Uxbridge. The society meets on the last enquiries@hillingdonTuesday of each month Sep-May naturalhistorysociety.org.uk (excluding Dec) at St Martins 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 Iver Flower Club The Coppins Room, Iver Village Hall, Grange Way, Iver, SL0 9HW. Meets 4th Thursday of month, 7.30pm. Call Jayne on 07730 249876. www.bbando.org.uk/clubs/iver

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Church Hall, Church Road at 7.30pm. Each month there is a talk of either local or national interest. During the summer months a programme of visits and walks are arranged. Membership £6 per year. Call either Paul 07980 483182 or Cyril 07704 837042 for details. Yiewsley Angling & West Drayton Fishing Clubs Every Thursday 8-10.30pm

Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. For more details call 01895 443423 KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA... Bagot Stack (Fitness League) Term Time Only. Vyners School, UB10 8AB on Tue 7.30 - 8.30pm. Also in Windsor Monday & Thursday. Call Rosemary 01628 776838 www.thefitnessleague.com Bokwa Dance Fitness Over-50's group Energetic workout that anyone can pick up, dancer or not. Saturdays 10.3011.30am, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Contact Penny, 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk Dance, Gymnastics and Free Running Classes Presented by Futunity Uk in Uxbridge Town Centre & Hillingdon Sports & Leisure centre. Ages 2-adults catered for and all styles of dance from RAD ballet, Contemporary & ISTD Tap to Break Dancing , Street Dance, Hip Hop & Zumba. Check out our website for full class listings, www.futunityuk.com. Contact Futunity Uk Head Office 01895 251224 or email admin@futunityuk.com Fitness Club St Catherine School, Money Lane, West Drayton, UB7 7NX. Thursday 6-7pm. Circuits, Fitness and Boxercise. £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, www.tauruspt.co.uk Tel: 07906 087749 Irish Dancing classes For boys and girls from age 5 upwards. Beginners and advanced classes available. Monday, 6pm at Hayes Conservative Club, Church Rd Wednesday, 6pm at Greenford Visitati on Catholic church hall Contact Deidre e: Deirdreosullivan@ hotmail.co.uk t: 07956 346383 Ladies Only Kickboxing Club Wednesdays, 6.30-8.00pm at Watts Hall, Redford Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1SZ. First Class FREE! Just turn up or call Instructor Leanne Phillips on 07518 848285 e: leanne @kickboxing-longdon.co.uk www.kickboxing-london.co.uk continued over...

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WD What's On... (Feb15)_Layout 1 29/01/2015 10:52 Page 2

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KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA CONTINUED...

Linedance for Improvers Tuesdays 12-2pm Royal British Legion, Station Road, West Drayton. Call Instructor Ann 0791 435 8050

Line Dancing Thurs 12-2pm. St Martins Church Hall, Church Road, West Drayton. Call Susan 01895 832837 susanwynne376@gmail.com

Linedancing Tuesday evenings 7.30-10.30pm. Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Call Ann on 0791 435 8050 Modern Jive Classes Mondays, 8-11pm, West Drayton Community Centre Thursdays, 8-11pm, Uxbridge Civic Centre. Beginners welcome, first night entry and free lifetime membership with this advert. Contact: Alan 0208 933 4350 or 07860 250961 or email: alanandsue@clubceroc.com.

Nordic Walking & Wellbeing Explore our borough’s green spaces . with all round exercise in the open air 4 wk courses various days and locations pre-booking essential contact 07771 872 592 / learningmoves@hotmailco.uk Pilates and Tai Chi Fit courses Tuesdays 7.30-8.30pm, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Contact Penny 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk Pinewood Fitness The Fitness Room, Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, Sl0 0NH Mon 20.00-21.00, Wed 19.30-20.30 Booking only. Various Fitness Circuits, Boxercise, Gym Work £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, www.tauruspt.co.uk 07906 087749 Salsa Classes Every Monday: The Middlesex Arms, Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HG. Beginners class starts 8pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.459.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm. Every Wednesday: The WatersEdge, Canal Cottages, Packetboat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. Beginners class

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starts 7:30pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.309.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm

Tai Chi Classes Sat 10-11am, Yiewsley Methodist Church, Fairfield Road, UB7 8EY. Call Dan on 07880 601429 to book.

Tap Dance Mondays 7.30-8.30pm at Meadows Community Centre, West Drayton. Adult Beginner/Intermediate tap. No exams. Contact 01895 420409 / learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk. Yoga for All Wednesday 7.30-9.00pm Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Priya 01895 440712

Zumba Mon 6pm, Walter Pomeroy Hall, Royal Lane Hillingdon UB8 3QU. Tues 7.30pm, St Marys Church Hall, Hemmen Lane (off Church Rd, Hayes) UB3 2JQ. All welcome. £5. Ann-Marie Samuels 07701 012927 Zumba Fitness Class Weds 8-9pm at Langley Grammar School Sport Centre Reddington Drive Langley, SL3 8LL. Thurs 7-8pm at Yiewsley / West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Rd, West Drayton. UB7 9JL. Call Gabriel 07735090325 or email gabrielzumba@instructor.net www.gabriel84.zumba.com PRE-SCHOOL & KIDS GROUPS... Mobile Disco for Children A mobile disco available for hire, for children of all ages call Zoe on 07747 063149 for details. Slough Sea Cadets Parade nights on Mon and Thu 19.30-21.30 at Langley Pavillion, Langley Road, Slough, SL3 8BS. Male & Female Junior Cadets (age 10-12yrs) & Cadets (age 1218yrs). Fees £2pw, courses from £5. Email: sloughseacadets@yahoo.co.uk Stars at Knight After school Drama Club for children 7-18 yrs at Southlands Art Centre, 76 The Green, West Drayton. Tel: 0208 841 8940 / 07956 123626 e: starsatknightdrama@gmail.com www.starsatknight-schoolofdrama.co.uk

MUSIC... Faraday Country Music Club in Slough SL2 1RN. Join us for the best live Country Music every Thursday for listeners, western partners, freestyle or line dancers. From 8-11pm. Call Deb 07986 050742 www.faradaycountry.co.uk Guitar lessons Complete beginners welcome. Contact Sam for a FREE lesson 07798 588496 sam@uxbridgeguitarlessons.co.uk Yiewsley & West Drayton Band Rehearse every Wednesday and Friday 8-10pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. To join or book the band for an engagement contact Lynne on 07976 824152 or email Lynne@ywdband.com Yiewsley & West Drayton Training Band This is open to all ages wanting to learn to play a brass instrument or those of you wanting to 'brush up' your skills. Rehearse every Wednesday during term time 6.457.45pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. Contact Abi on 07985 302 856 or emailtraining@ywdband.com PETS... Iver Dog Training Club Every Tue and Fri 6.30pm-9.00pm at St Andrews Church, Richings Park. Call Diana 01753 732907 Iver Heath Fields Dog Club 'Outdoor Training' every Sat at 10.15am, Wed at 11am. Call Mike on 01753 817852 or 07795 031335 SELF DEFENCE... Close Quarter Combat Based in Richings Park. Specialising in speed, strength and conditioning training. Pad work combinations. Suitable for men & women of all ages. 1-2-1 sessions. Call Mark 07525 366126 e: mj.wilding@hotmail.com continued over...

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SELF DEFENCE CONTINUED... Karate Club of Denham For ages 5 years and upwards. Sundays 9.15-11am at New Denham Community Centre, Oxford Road. Call 07988 743725

Richings Park, Iver, SL0 9DD. For more call Howard 07816 315688

West Drayton Community Centre. Transport available. 01895 443423

Hillingdon Brain Tumour Group Support group held every 2nd Thurs of the month 12.30-2.30pm, Hillingdon Baptist Church, Hercies Rd, Hillingdon, UB10 9LS. Call Cyril or Becky 01895 637444.

Senior Citizens Welfare Association Chair Exercise Classes Mondays 11am-11.45am. Call 01895 443423 for details or pop along to the West Drayton Community Centre.

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Karate Club of Uxbridge For ages 5 years and upwards. Wed 5-7pm at The Greenway, Uxbridge. Call 07988 743725

Kung Fu Club (Ladies only) A work out for all ladies, at all levels of fitness on Monday and Thursday mornings from 9.30 to 10.30am. West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Road, UB7 9JL. Contact Ella: 07702 479 435 or sportsclubuk@gmail.com Heathrow Boxing Club Men & women, boys & girls Junior Boxing Club: Tue & Thu, 5pm. Senior Boxing Club Mon, Tue & Thu, 8pm. 422 Bath Road, Longford, Middlesex, UB7 0EB. Tel: 0208 123 1271.

Martial Arts Bujinkan Kuri Dojo Ninjutsu and Bujutsu, Unit 21 Bridgeworks, UB8 2JG. Tel: 07878 471124. Training: Sunday 10.30am-12.30pm, Tuesday 8-10pm, Thursday 8.3010pm www.bujinkankuridojo.co.uk Shorinji Kempo self defence Learn the practical self defence techniques of this traditional Japanese martial art. Tue 6-7pm children (£2), 7-9pm adults (£5). The Barn, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge. Call Dan 07776 421957. www.sk.harrow.ac.uk Silat Kuntao Indonesian Self-Defence Traditional self-defence, includes empty hand, weapons, meditation and healing massage. Adult classes only. Mon and Wed 8pm-10pm at Denham Village Memorial Hall, Denham, UB9 5BN. Call Philip Davies 07790 496 346 or kuntao.matjan.uk@gmail.com. SELF HELP & SUPPORT... Alcoholics Anonymous Meet every Sunday, 7.30pm at St Leonards Hall, St Leonards Walk, 

Rosemary Conley Every Thursday 10-11.30am, Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Call Sarah on 0208 569 0181 Slimming World The Salvation Army, Cowley Road, Uxbridge. Tuesday 7pm Tel: Nicki 07826 698360 New Denham Community Centre Tuesday, 10-11.30am. Tel: Mandy 07879 897578 Yiewsley Methodist Church, Farfield Road, Yiewsley. Wednesdays 5pm or 6.45pm. Tel: Nicki 07826 698360

Weight Watchers Every Tuesday, 5.30pm and Friday at 10.00am Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Call 01784 256974 or 07879 455882 SOCIAL GROUPS... Harlington Women’s Institute Every 1st Wed of month, 7.309.30pm at Landsdown House, St Peter's Way Hayes UB3 5AB. Call Sarah Wilson 0208 759 0019 Over 60s Social Group Male, Female and couples. Meet fortnightly at various agreed venues. Judith 07980 073170 Mel 07785 582323 jlholl2014@gmail.com Over 65s Wellbeing Sessions Well Seasoned - every Friday afternoon from 1:30pm to 3:30pm. Creative art & craft activities & chair & standing exercise for over 65s at Yiewsley Cornerstone Centre, 74 Colham Ave. Yiewsley UB7 8HF. Sessions free. Call 01895 458310 www.yiewsleycornerstone.co.uk. Southlands Ladies Group Talks, outings, own evenings. Mon fortnightly. Call 01895 445766 Senior Citizens Welfare Association W/D & Yiewsley Bingo played every 4th Wednesday of month 1- 3.30pm. Yiewsley and

Tea Dancing 2-4pm every Tuesday at Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre Women’s Social Group Looking to make new friends? Social group for women. We meet regularly for coffee, a chat and have organised trips. Call Seema 07730 898635 or seemaa@seemaa.co.uk SPORT... Hayes & Harlington Road Runners Every Wed, 8pm at Hayes and Harlington Community Association, Albert Road, Hayes. Email: michsampson76@aol.com (ladies) jack.nisbet@talk21.com (men) www.hhroadrunners.com. Ladies Golf Meets 10am every Monday and Wednesday at Rickmansworth Golf Club new members welcome. Email ladies-captain@rickmansworthgolf club.co.uk for further details. Pink Ladies Netball Club All levels and abilities welcome. Training at Stockley Academy, West Drayton every Tues evening. Senior training 16+yrs 7.30-9pm. Back to Netball 16+yrs 7.30- 8.30pm Under 16s - call Rhiannon 01895 448878 email: plnetball@hotmail.co.uk visit www.pinkladiesnetball.co.uk Uxbridge Squash Club All welcome. Uxbridge Cricket Club, Park Rd, Uxbridge. E: squash@ uxbridgesquash.org.uk or visit: www.uxbridgesquash.org.uk. Yiewsley & West Drayton Bowls Club Interested? Come along, just bring your flat shoes! Tuesdays 2pm. Call Kenny Smith 07957 140627.

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Ickenham OPINION (Jun15)_IN! Tipss Style Editorials (Mar13) 28/05/2015 08:33 Page 1

elf. . Help yours

Free

OPINION cash. .

Free money and other  modern  myths ome. . Take s

few years ago a friend of mine put in a monster claim for miss-sold PPI. He didn’t use one of these dodgy claims management companies that cold call you all the time; instead he used the claim form conveniently provided by the government, dotted the Is, crossed the Ts and was even well organised enough to have the original loan agreements on file. A couple of months later he received several cheques totalling over £35 grand… FREE money… whoopee! Around the same time, one of my relatives was working as a site supervisor on the railways. The contractor he worked for was offering generous voluntary redundancy packages and, as it happened, he had previously been approached by a rival contractor with the offer of a job with slightly better terms and conditions. He jumped at the redundancy offer and received around £10,000 of FREE money… fantastic! The problem is that neither story had a particularly happy ending. My PPI claiming friend rapidly discovered that a large chunk of his money was eaten up by having to immediately pay off the debts that had led to his claim in the first place. He had been paying them off already, but at a leisurely pace. He then discovered that the banks and financial institutions are not exactly thrilled about being forced to shell out billions of pounds in “compensation” for “miss-selling” and that they all talk to each other. As a result, he cannot get an overdraft facility, nor can he persuade anyone to issue him a credit card. In fact, his options for borrowing money are restricted to the likes of Wonga. Worse still, even though he has a good job as a civil servant and enough money to put down a substantial deposit, he cannot get a mortgage. To all intents and purposes, he is shut out of the mainstream financial system. As for my relative and his generous redundancy payment, it didn’t take long for him to realise that the

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reason his employer was making people redundant was that Network Rail had drastically cut their spending on track maintenance. The job with a rival contractor was no longer there and he spent several years on zero hours contracts, working hugely antisocial hours with no guarantee of a regular income. Thankfully, he has now managed to find a full time job as a site supervisor again, with all the perks and benefits that go with it. Getting back to that wonderful magical money tree of PPI cash, the big banks have now paid out something like £15 billion and the claims keep rolling in. If you throw in assorted fines for misbehaviour and compensation for miss-selling things like interest rate swaps to small businesses, it is estimated that the big 5 banks have lost 60% of their profits over the last two years. It would be easy to say that they’re only bankers and they deserve everything they’ve got coming, but in reality it’s not that simple. Every pound that is dished out in free money is a pound that is not loaned to a hard pressed small business or as a mortgage to a first time buyer who desperately wants to get on the housing ladder. There is some evidence that a lot of the PPI money has been spent on hot tubs and holidays, thus driving a bit of the economic growth we have enjoyed over the last couple of years. Even so, I can’t help thinking that if that money had been loaned to creditworthy consumers and businesses, it would have worked a lot harder for the economy. So there you have it, there is no such thing as free money; it is just money that is taken off one group of people and given to another. And if the system worked as it is supposed to do, I would probably get a lot less phone calls concerning my PPI claim or that accident I never had.

Howard Clemmow

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