Iver June 15 by In and Around Publishing

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       Indefinable quality For expert advice and installation of all Schueco systems: 9 9 9 9

Bi-Fold Doors Sliding Doors Conservatories Winter Gardens

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0844 358 2227 info@bifolddoorfactory.co.uk www.bifolddoorfactory.co.uk

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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!

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Tel: 0800 038 5001 Mob: 07759 536494

Situations Vacant 5 Children’s Puzzle Page 6 A hobby that’s worth Droning on about 8 Paul Griffin: Iver District Councillor 10 The Richings Players 10 Property Matters 14 Local Events 18 The P J Gathergood Blog 20 Coffee Break Puzzles 22 Interiors: The Kings of Bling 24 Beauty & The Beach 26 Cake & Bake: Vanilla &Chocolate Panna Cotta 28 Breakthrough for Sciatica Sufferers 30 Health: Los of Libido 32 Zoe Hart 34 Finance: Saving for the children 36 Golden Years: Memories of 50 Years Ago 40 Wordsearch 43 And Another Thing 44 Reader Holidays 46 CAB New Live Web Chat 48 Short Story: Boat Number 6 50 Citizens Advice Bureau 52 Match Report 52 Richings Park Residents Association 54 Gardening Feature 56 Iver/Iver Heath Schools Community 58 Puzzle Solutions 58 Pets Corner 60 Opinion 62 Motoring: Top 5 Eco Cars 66 Clubs, Groups & Classes 68,70,72 & 74

In and Around Magazines cover: West Drayton . Iver . Denham . Uxbridge Ickenham . Ruislip

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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! Well, let’s see what ‘Flaming June’ has to bring and don’t forget, it’s Fathers Day on Sunday 21st! .

  

Angela Fisher 0800 038 5001 / 07759 536494 info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk 

www.inandaroundpublishing.co.uk 4

We are grateful for the support of local businesses whose adverts appear in this publication and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions, claims made by advertisers or endorse companies, products or services. This publication, its contents and advert designs are © of In and Around Publishing. Any copying or reproduction in part or fully, is strictly forbidden without our prior consent.

SITUATIONS

VACANT

ADVERTISE YOUR VACANCY IN ALL SIX MAGAZINES FOR JUST £50

Elliott & Co are looking for a

 Basic & Generous Commission offered.  14 Long Drive , South Ruislip HA4 0HG . Will need to provide an up to date (Level 2 Hygiene Cert). You will be solely in the Kitchen and should provide a demonstration of excellent hygiene, with the ability to use your own initiative, and present food to our way of thinking. Reliability and a can do attitude is a must. Hours: TuesFri 12 3 PM & Sat 15 PM 

    396 Long Lane Hillingdon UB10 9PG 

 Call us now for further details on  The Palm Suite Restaurant & Bar 52 St Davids Close , Iver Heath SL0 0RT

  • High academic attainment • Outstanding pastoral care  • Broad and Enriching Curriculum • Provision for rising 3s • School Day from 8.00am – 6.00pm IAPS Preparatory Day School for Boys 3 - 7 and Girls 3 - 11

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35 Eton Road, Datchet, Berkshire SL3 9AX 7

 Hobbies  A Hobby That’s  Worth Droning On About

By Kate McLelland Drones are much in the news these days: whether it’s shooting a spectacular wildlife image or zooming too close to a passenger plane, these popular flying machines have had their share of good and bad press reports. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) may be the latest gadget-of-choice but pilotless flying vehicles have a long and surprising history. In 1849 the Austrians launched a largely unsuccessful unmanned bomb attack on Venice, using balloons (planes were yet to be invented) and unmanned torpedos also played a part in the First World War. 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 War, drones began to be used extensively. They undoubtedly saved further loss of life but these large, expensive, jet-powered craft proved hard to recover and many were lost during operations. If you are thinking of buying one for yourself or a family member, be warned, as you can incur some pretty hefty 8

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 should 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. 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 flyonly 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. Here are some basic rules to follow while you are learning: 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…

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So the election slides and disappears into our memories as we set about the business of being a Council and being Councillors representing our respective Wards. There are three of us to represent Iver Village & Richings Park; myself, Wendy Matthews and Jilly Jordan. I think we have a fabulous team with the necessary mix of passion, experience, time and confidence in the support of our electorate. We all only have our community as our drivers and we will all work towards what the community thinks we should work towards.

 Our local, award winning amateur theatre company The Richings Players are proud to present their next production – “Murder In Play”, a theatrical whodunnit by Simon Brett, author of the Charles Paris detective novels.

I committed to having residents meetings every other month in the Village Hall. I am still working on when we can have the first one of those and what the relevant topics will be. Clearly the HGV problem hasn't gone away and will probably remain our priority for a few years to come. The major infrastructure projects we are facing such as Crossrail, Heathrow expansion, HS2, the Heathrow Express hub, the Cemex issue, WRAtH and Stobart Biomass will all take time and effort to understand, discuss, negotiate and agree and will also have impacts on our roads and lives. The impact is what we need to keep to a minimum and the upside, where we can find one, is what will make the imposition of these projects slightly easier to bear. Thank you to everyone that supported me on May 7th, now let's go to work! :) All the best, Paul

Directed by critically acclaimed director and award winning actress, Zena Wigram, the play is full of laughs, suspense, controversy and of course the ‘whodunnit’ element. Ley Dobson, a regular with the Players who has performed in shows such as the smash hit rock musical “Spring Awakening” and many more is performing with her cousin, Zoe Rimmer for the first time on stage.

                                                 we find ourselves            at the dress rehearsal for the touring production of  ‘Murder at Priorswell Manor’ and it’s going badly. Leading lady Renee is unimpressed by the direc Tickets for “Murder In Play” cost £10 and £8 for tor’s relationship with young Ginette – which isn’t concessions and can be purchased online via surprising, given that he’s her husband – and Gi www.richingsplayers.co.uk, using their secure nette’s former boyfriend Tim isn’t exactly thrilled online booking site where you can also download a either. There are problems with props and set, one booking form if you’d prefer or by calling the  of the cast can’t remember his lines and then  someone really is murdered! 10

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Property

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As I write this, the general election is still a week away and Labour and Conservatives are neck and neck with neither party looking anywhere near winning a majority. By the time you read this, hope fully we’ll know what government is going to be running the country. The only people who don’t have to worry about the outcome are first time home buyers because both parties are targeting them with preelection giveaways.

association properties will be given the right to buy their homes at a discount of up to 70%.

Labour have got in on the act as well. If elected, they would give first time buyers a stamp duty holi day on purchases of up to £300,000 for the first three years of the parliament. There are no indica tions that they would withdraw the Help to Buy scheme; instead they have pledged to adapt the H2B ISA so that the money invested in the The Conservatives have already brought in the schemes is used to fund building 125,000 homes Help to Buy scheme which enables them to buy over the next five years. with a much smaller deposit. Newly announced is the Help to Buy ISA, set to be introduced in the I find this focus on first time buyers to be very en autumn. The government will contribute a 25% top couraging; they are, after all, the life blood of the up to any savings invested in the ISA up to a maxi housing market and have been conspicuous by mum of £3000. In addition, if elected, the Conser their absence since the financial crash. However, vatives would build 100,000 homes on brown field they will need homes to actually buy and, despite sites that would be available for first time buyers at the promises of both parties, I can’t see the num a discount of 20% on market price. Potentially, bers required being built without further drastic some taxes would also be waived on these homes. reform of the planning laws. Finally, aspiring homeowners who live in housing 

Dair House School and Nursery Farnham Royal

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An independent preparatory school for boys and girls age 3 to 11 years

Bursaries and scholarships available for Year 5 High levels of success at 11+ High academic standards Caring, nurturing atmosphere Small class sizes Set in three acres of picturesque school grounds For appointments to see our wonderful school in action please call 01753 643964 Educational Nursery Children participate in assemblies, sports day and productions Fabulous facilities and experienced staff Ideal introduction to school life

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JUNE EVENTS

information please email fisaivervillage@gmail.com

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 18

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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.

I'll start this month by mentioning  as I promised him I would  Derek, a eversprightly retired gent who I've got to know over the last couple of years through us both often strolling around Iver and along the canal, which sees our paths regularly crossing. I was cycling up Iver Lane a few days ago when he excitedly waved me down to tell me of his latest achievement, walking to Windsor and back. We often pass on the towpath and discuss life, the area, and the canal. Talking of which, last month I mentioned I'd like, for this article, to write a piece on the local canal and the people who live on it. Well, I didn't plan ahead too well on that one – we've just had the big Caval cade festival at Paddington, and this weekend com ing is the even bigger canal festival at Rickmans worth, so many of my local contacts who I hoped to nab for soundbites are currently busy tonig and fro ing! But it's worked in my favour – before I tackle that next month, I can set the scene; You'd be amazed how many people don’t actually know what the canal  or why it came about. I didn't myself until a few years ago. The United Kingdom's canals were effectively the country's first motorways. The initial stretch of the Grand Junction Canal (it didn't become the Grand Union until 1929, when it amalgamated with several other canals), running from the river Thames at Brentford to Uxbridge, was dug in 1793, with William Jessop it's chief engineer. Coming about during the Industrial Revolution, it was constructed to allow direct and reliable cargo haulage (building materials, food & ingredients, cloth, and various other) up and down the country from Branston in the Midlands, in an era when road quality was generally poor – muddy, unstable and treacherous. In an age long before industrial diggers and other construction equipment, canal construction was completed using far more practical means, replying almost solely on power on manpower and (in it's literal sense) horse power. With the addition of the Paddington Arm (known officially as the Paddington ) in 1801 coming off the main line at Bulls Bridge, Hayes and going right into the centre of London, the effects of this new age of transportation expanded even more. This was long before motor engines, so just as land transport was pulled by horse, horses pulled boats along at the edge of the water, literally towing them  hence the “tow(ing) path”. It wasn't until the 1890s or so that steam powered engines, later diesel, started to become commonplace. 20

My regular local pub, The Shovel Inn (nowadays “The Malt Shovel”) is just one of many canalside pubs built by and for the navvies (canal diggers) as they dug through an area, the 'Shovel' name reflect ing it's roots. Other such pubs (such as my other regular, The General Eliott, a mile or so up the tow path in Uxbridge, where I can often be found enjoy ing a good band on a Friday or Saturday night) were similarly built soon after completion of the canal, to cater to the mass of boats and their crews passing through daily. The boat men themselves (“bargees”, no “onion” jokes please!), lived onboard, often with their fami lies, in very confined spaces (for maximum cargo). The fact they were constantly moving from area to area saw them dubbed “water gypsies”. Similarly, the tradition of boats often being painted with vi brant, floral designs, and pride being taken over polishing the boat's brass features, again echoed gypsy traditions. As for children, they typically lived onboard too, being sent ahead to prepare locks and suchlike as soon as they were able. It wasn't until much later in the 1930s that a school boat, the origi nal Elsdale, was commissioned in the area, for ca nal children to get one day of schooling per week. Although I'm no longer associated with it's modern descendant, the Elsdale II Floating Classroom, I still like the principal of visiting classes coming aboard for the day and educating Da Yoof about the canal's history and heritage that is so often overlooked. The canal also served other uses, for example a ferry, the 'Packet Boat', running daily trips from Ux bridge to Paddington and back (long before rail ways). The nearby Paddington Packet Boat pub in Cowley from that era remains, and the modern built Packet Boat Marina also takes the name. Another of the canal's uses was hauling both artillery and sol diers, in the First and to an extent, Second World War, and also housed many pillboxes, some of which still remain in the area. Some trivia about 'our' local canal lock off Iver Lane in Cowley  the date on the lock is actually mislead ing, with dated slabs suggesting it was constructed in 1893. It was actually originally dug in 1793/4; As with other parts of the canal, it was later widened from a single to double width lock (allowing two narrowboats or indeed a single wide barge through, thus speeding up haulage) hence the later date; this misleading trait is common on many locks on south ern stretches. Also of note by Cowley Lock is the canal bridge, unusual in that the tunnel is far lower than standard, and instead of having the towpath run alongside, pedestrians (and horses back then)

going up and over the roadway – due to it being a fill in much of the arm to be used for an Aroad run gauging bridge, ensuring that boats weren't loaded ning to Slough Trading Estate. However there was too high. much opposition locally and the plans eventually scrapped. Since then, although much of the main line For all the change it brought about, the canals even of the canal has been 'regenerated' for  people living tually had a rival – the railways, which by the 1840s on the water and leisure cruising, the Slough Arm has were making a significant dent in cargo carried by become little used by boats, and beyond HiLine canal. By the 1930s, industrial canal traffic had marina at Iver (near the boundary to Langley) it is greatly dwindled from it's heyday, but limped on until quite uncommon to see boat traffic, with nothing en the early 1960s. By this time, however, railway trans ticing nor attractive to go much further down for, and portation was being eclipsed by it's own rival – the ending (at the Slough basin) in little more than a road, with the dawn of Aroads and motorways. It's muddy puddle. However the arm has seen new ironic to think, considering the reason the canal first leases of life – not only people who walk and cycle came into being, things eventually went full circle. along the towpath every day, but also as a haven for During it's heyday, much of the canal's commerce all sorts of wildlife. locally revolved around the area's numerous brick For years there have been various ideas to rejuve fields. Millions of bricks were transported up into nate the arm but not of these have ever come to London and used to build many of the buildings that anything, as yet. The biggest proposal that has been still stand today. Some of the modern landscape, bouncing around, is connecting it's Slough end to the particularly in West Drayton, hints at these former Thames and Windsor. But it's a very “chicken and brickfields, where roads suddenly slope down or have egg” situation – it would be extremely expensive to do a steep bank by them. Again, local pub names such before it made any money back, especially as much as the Bricklayers Arms in West Drayton and the of the land restrictions in Slough are still in place, and Cowley Brick pub in Cowley (in recent years con much of the canal would have to pass above or un verted into housing but with the pub sign left as a derground. Although it would undoubtedly give rebirth reminder) reflect the area's past. to the Slough Arm, I can't see it ever happening in my With several brickfields in Iver and Langley, in 1878 a lifetime. new arm leading to Slough was successfully pro I can remember the first time I ever saw the canal. I posed, with engineer Alfred Walker awarded the was about three years old. We had driven from Lang position of construction overseer. For this new post ley to Great Mills in Yiewsley, and as a “treat”(!) when ing, Walker and his wife moved to Langley, his par we came out, going and looking at the canal behind ents already having lived locally previously. Work for a minute. I can remember looking up and down it, began on the junction at Cowley Peachey in 1880, and seeing what I now know to be the bridge to the nearly a century after the main line's construction, Slough Arm. It meant nothing to me then; It didn't for and the completed new arm was officially opened on several decades after either (not helped by much of th December 4 1882. Originally, the arm had been canal, particularly the Slough Arm, becoming little proposed to run up further into Slough, but this was more than a dumping ground for old shopping trol vetoed after opposition from various owners of land leys). It wasn't until one sunny day four years ago, that needed to be crossed. Many sources state the when I hadn’t ventured very far for a long time and Slough Arm was the last major canal to be con suddenly felt like a walk “by the canal that goes structed in the U.K.; this is true to an extent, though through Mansion Lane” just to see where it went, that there are one or two exceptions. I started to comprehend it. Within the next few The new Slough Arm and it's connecting brickfields months, I had shrunk (8 stone in 7 months as I used thrived, and were at their peak from 19015. As with to bore people with), expanded my love of nature, the main line, numerous wharfs and spurs were found a new passion for history, and met the people added. At least one of these wharfs, if not more, ran that I now regard as my community and my friends. onto the fields behind Wingrove's Farm. Despite I remember the achievement I felt the first time I having been long since filled in, if you look closely walked from Langley up the canal to Brentford and you can sometimes spot clues of where these spurs back. That to me, then, was far. But by the time once were. Tramlines were also laid from several you've read this I shall have have (hopefully) com brickfields to the towpath for loading  the recent pleted climbing the “three peaks” (Scafell Pike, Ben rediscovery of one such rail I mentioned in one of my Nevis and Snowdon) over three days. It's the not only earlier blogs. When clay supplies had been ex the furthest I shall have ever travelled (I've never hausted from brickfields on the arm, many of the sites been much up past Reading) but also the highest I'll were backfilled with rubbish hauled back out by barge have ever been. I'm going with my friend Steve who from London. Even now, there are spots along the lives on the canal, a friend of his, and a couple more arm, where old Victorian bottles and jars can be friends from the canal are also planning to join us for found (I have several). at least one of the three. I'm concerned Steve will The Slough Arm was last used for commercial use in make me carry him most of the way, as the most 1960, and effectively being a 'dead end', fell into he's ever climbed are the steps outside the Shovel. disuse and neglect. In 1968 there were proposals to

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Home & Interiors  The Kings of Bling By Katherine Sorrell

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The French kings of the 17th and 18th centuries had enormous influence on aristocratic interiors. For elegance, luxury and splendour, look no further than the styles of Louis XIV, XV and XVI, writes Katherine Sorrell The year: 1681. The place: the royal court in France. And, according to King Louis XIV who had assumed power two years earlier: ‘There is nothing that indicates more clearly the magnificence of great princes than their superb palaces and their precious furniture.’ The king was inspired to adapt a small hunting lodge just outside Paris, extend it, and fill it with splendid decoration and furnishings, all in order to glorify his monarchy. Its style was the most up-to-date possible, a new fashion known as Baroque - dramatically dazzling and opulent, epitomised by jewellike colours, large furniture in bulbous shapes, trompe l’oeil paintwork and glittering silver, gold and crystal. The new palace was called Versailles. The interior of Versailles was filled with furniture made in specialist workshops by the finest native and foreign artisans. Pieces were carved and gilded in heavy, scrolling 24

shapes, upholstered with velvet and brocade, and inlaid with exotic materials such as marble, silver, ivory, lapis lazuli and agate. There were fabrics woven with silver or gold thread, lavish rugs and walls hung with tapestries or covered in marble or mirror. Perhaps most extreme of all was the specially commissioned furniture and lighting made of silver. It was utterly magnificent.

Fashions are forever changing however, and by the turn of the 18th century Louis XIV was urging a ‘graceful and airy’ style on his granddaughter-in-law. After his death in 1715 the court moved to Paris, where a less ceremonial lifestyle developed, with smaller rooms and lighter furniture. Known as Rococo, it was frivolous and exuberant, all delicate curves and asymmetrical lines while, overall, homes were arranged to be comfortable rather than impressive, colours and patterns soft and feminine. The typical Rococo home featured elaborate plasterwork and carved, painted and gilded wooden panels, walls hung with imported silk or hand-painted wallpapers, all reflected in ornamental mirrors. Furniture often had a curving front and – most typically of all – cabriole legs. Also known as Louis Quinze style, Rococo was at its height

in France in the 1740s. Within a decade or so, however, a move towards simplicity, combined with a revival of classical forms gave rise to another new look. In England, it was known as neo-classical; in France, Louis Seize. By the time Louis XVI ascended the throne in 1774 this style was dominant, and he and his wife Marie Antoinette were keen patrons. While luxury and elegance were still key, somewhat plainer, even geometric designs replaced elaborate decorations, while straight lines and symmetry took over from curves and arabesques. Key pieces included chairs with horseshoe-shaped backs and tapering, column-shaped legs, striped fabrics and wallpapers, and elaborate window treatments featuring swags and tails. Furniture was grouped sociably rather than placed around the edges of the room, and even featured comfortable, sprung-cushioned upholstery. Louis Seize style could be summed up by two words: expensive simplicity. But it was not to last. In 1793 Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were guillotined. Two years later, the French revolutionary government was established, the Directory, lending its name to the final phase of neoclassicism: Directoire style, sparse, simple and notable for its lack of ornamentation. It was the end of the Louis era, but these remarkable styles have influenced and inspired us ever since. Main Image - Versailles curved luxury upholstered bed, from £1,695, The French Bedroom Company, 0845 644 8022; www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk.

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Beauty

You need to protect your skin from the sun all year around, but it’s even more vital in the warmer months. If you suffer from eczema, psoriasis or other skin complaints, you may want to opt for a natural sunscreen, that’s less likely to irritate your skin. Neal’s Yard Remedies Chamomile & Aloe Vera Moisturising Sun Lotion gets our vote. It’s 100% natural, has an SPF of 25, and offers both UVA and UVB protection. Usually, it’s best to buy a separate facial sun cream, as most body creams are quite greasy, leading to spots 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.

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 five-star hotel stay, read on for our pick of summer beauty essentials.

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For many of us, slapping on foundation is the last thing we fancy doing on a summer’s day. But if you 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 glow. 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. These have been designed to lock moisture into the skin, while absorbing oil to keep shine at bay. Choose from six shades, including coral (pictured). 26

Ah the joys of trying to fit all of your make-up 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.

 Cake and  Bake Vanilla and Chocolate Panna Cotta

This velvety smooth, vanilla flavoured Italian set cream is simple to make but tastes divine. For a less rich dessert replace half the double cream with full-fat milk.

Ingredients: • 600ml double cream • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 2 pared strips of lemon rind • 55g caster sugar • 1 x 12g sachet powdered gelatine • 50g good quality dark chocolate, finely grated • Chocolate dipped strawberries, to serve (see TIP)

Serves 4 Ready in 30 mins, plus cooling and setting time

1. Place the cream, vanilla extract, lemon rind and caster sugar in a pan and bring slowly to the boil. Remove from the heat. 2. Meanwhile place 4 tbsp of boiling water in a small heatproof cup or jug and sprinkle over the powdered gelatine. Leave for a few minutes until spongy then stir until dissolved. If the gelatine doesn’t completely dissolve, heat in the microwave on Full Power for a few seconds or sit the cup or jug in a pan of gently simmering water and stir until completely clear. Leave to cool for 10 minutes. 3. Stir a little of the hot cream into the gelatine mixture then stir back into the rest of the cream. Leave the mixture to cool for 30 minutes. Remove the strips of lemon rind and pour the mixture into four individual 150ml pudding basins. Place on a tray and chill in the fridge for 6 hours or overnight until set. 4.To serve, dip each pudding basin into a bowl of hot water for a few seconds then turn out onto a serving plate. Sprinkle the grated chocolate over each panna cotta and decorate with a sprig of mint or lemon balm. Serve with the chocolate dipped strawberries.

TIP

To make the chocolate dipped strawberries, pick firm ripe strawberries and use a good quality dark chocolate (one with at least 50% cocoa solids). Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Remove the bowl from the heat and stir until smooth. Holding each strawberry by the green calyx, dip into the melted chocolate then shake to allow the excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Place the dipped strawberries onto a baking sheet lined with baking paper and leave in a cool place until the chocolate has set. Serve on day of dipping.

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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

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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

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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

Health Loss of Libido

  

By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk In our busy modern lives, unfortunately sex can sometimes takes a back seat. But what if you don’t care less if sex is in the car at all? Where has your libido gone, and how can you get it back? Exhaustion, Stress and Depression Problem: These can affect your hormone levels, energy, self-esteem and ability to relax and focus on your relationship. Cure: Because physical activity and sexual arousal make our body release ‘happy’ hormones, sex can be good medicine for stress and depression, so don’t convince yourself you’re too stressed to enjoy it - it may help. Exhaustion may be a symptom of anaemia or an underactive thyroid. So see your doctor, who can recommend medication, counselling or therapies. Smoking, Drugs and Alcohol Problem: Using drugs and drinking over the recommended alcohol limit can lower your sex drive, while smoking reduces blood glow and can affect both desire and performance. Cure: Your doctor can offer advice on reducing alcohol intake, giving up smoking and tackling drug addiction. Physical Illness Problem: Diabetes, hyperprolactinaemia (a rare pituitary gland disorder,) anaemia, thyroid disorders and other illnesses can lower libido, as can gynaecological problems such as fibroids and endometriosis, which can make sex painful. Cure: Don’t just accept or 32

dismiss your loss of libido - talk to your doctor.

Medication Problem: Many medicines can potentially reduce libido, including contraceptives, chemotherapy, and some medications for high blood pressure, epilepsy, psychosis, depression and HIV. SSRIs such as Fluoxetine (Prozac) can make it difficult to achieve orgasm, while medicines such as Cimetidine, Finasteride and Cyproterone can lower testosterone levels. Cure: if your libido has decreased since beginning new medication, see your doctor, who may be able to prescribe an alternative. Fear of pregnancy Problem: This can affect both partners, even if only subconsciously. Cure: Discuss family planning and ensure you’re both clear about how you’re going to prevent pregnancy so you’re both free from the nagging worry of unplanned pregnancy. Performance worries Problem: Although women may worry about their sexual performance, it’s more common in men. Anxiety about impotence, erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation can all cause loss of libido. Cure: See your doctor, who can offer help or medication for these issues. Emotional Issues Problem: If we feel resentful, bullied or unloved, we’re unlikely to want sex with the person making us feel that

way, while a fear of intimacy can make sexual relationships difficult. Feeling undesirable or having low self-esteem can lower our libido too. Cure: Self-help books can help, but you may need individual or couples counselling. Sexual Identity Issues Problem: Sometimes it can be difficult for people to express their sexual orientation or gender identity. They may start relationships they’re not comfortable with or feel their gender identity doesn’t match their biological sex (gender dysphoria). Cure: Be honest with yourself, and discuss your concerns on a confidential helpline or with your GP. Even if your libido is fine, 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: 0845 330 3030 http://www.lgf.org.uk Lesbian, gay and bisexual helpline and services. Beaumont Society: 01582 412220 www.beaumontsociety. org.uk. 24hr helpline and support for transvestites, transsexuals, those experiencing gender dysphoria and their families. Relate: 0300 100 1234 http:// www.relate.org.uk/ Relationship support.

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.

Zoe

Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX Independent School for boys and girls aged 3 - 11

  

An ‘OUTSTANDING’ School A family-run school with a caring atmosphere. Pupils achieve excellent results in academic subjects, music, sport and drama. For further information, or to arrange a visit, please telephone 01895 234371 Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX - www.sthelenscollege.com 35

 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. 36

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

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

eltze estates

S y t

   “RENTAL’S ON THE UP”

Laurie Eltze Lettings Director 60 High Street Iver Buckinghamshire SL0 9NG 01753 651652 www.eltze.co.uk

The Lettings market is strong and properties are in high demand. If you are considering placing your property on the ‘Rental Market’ …… now is the time! We would be happy to assist you in making your letting experience trouble free and smooth running. Our family run business has a wealth of local knowledge and expertise. We offer professionalism and excellence, always striving to give the best care possible! “Trust is important in this industry along with the ability to never compromise on the values we set, whether personal or in business. My aim is to consistently offer a high standard of care aimed at building good relations with both Landlords and Tenants.”

“DON’T DELAY…...CALL NOW”

Top Ten Tips to Sell Your Home Selling your home and moving is one of the greatest financial and emotional experiences you can go through. To maximise the opportunity of attracting a buyer and obtaining the best possible price, please follow the steps below

Decoration - Tone down the decoration to neutral colours, creating a clean blank   canvas for the next home owner and one that will appeal to a wider audience

’

De-clutter - Remove items and minimalise each room to create maximum space De-personalise - Remove multiple family photographs and children’s drawings which allows the buyer to see the home without being distracted Clean - Clean all rooms, polish windows and hoover carpets. A new fresh carpet or lino in a kitchen or bathroom is a good move if the current one is beyond repair Kerb Appeal - Make sure the front entrance and garden are tidy, with lawns cut and fresh flowers or hanging baskets present to create the right first impression Pets - We love your pets but they may be a distraction. Make sure they are confined for viewings and remove food and litter trays to minimise odour DIY - Complete any unfinished repairs/maintenance. Buyers may pick up on a small area that needs attention and this may cost you more in the long run Lighting - Install high energy light bulbs in small rooms and bathrooms to give as much light as possible. Ensure curtains are tied back neatly and if you have net curtains they should be clean Define Each Room - Move the furniture to define the sitting room, study, family room and bedrooms Accessorise - Dress each room to impress with fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit in the kitchen, scatter cushions in the sitting room, toys laid out in the family room and fresh coordinated towels in bathrooms

For a Free Consultation and Market Appraisal call us today on 01753 651652

Your professional family run business www.eltze.co.uk 39

Golden Years Memories of 50 Years Ago by Ted Bruning and trying to curry favour with the young.

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.

    

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 40

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.

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!



Answers pg 58 43

 And  Another

Thing...

by Tom Hughes

My Sunday morning began like any other. Settled into my favourite chair with my brew, a slice of freshly buttered toast and two episodes of Broadchurch on catch-up, I was just about to take my first sip of tea when in walked Sarah, closely followed by Hannah and Emily.

disappearing, I want you all to know that from now on I promise to share the value pack with everyone else.”

Sarah, wearing a benevolent, concerned expression on her face gently relieved me of my steaming mug, sat me down and said,

“We are gathered here today Tom to tell you that, well, you are a bit of a scruff.”

A confused silence descended. The three women in my life all stared at each other. Chocolate Eggs it seemed, were not the issue. Sarah pressed on.

“A what?”

“Tom, What we are about to say is said out of love and concern, nothing else.”

Next to pipe up was Hannah.

Then I realised what was happening, it was a family intervention! But an intervention about what? Was my customary Friday night pint of mild down the Paraffin Lamp getting out of hand? Was my chocolate habit becoming a cause for concern? What could it be? I decided to confront the issue head on.

“What’s wrong with them?”

“Listen, if anyone is wondering why all the cream eggs keep

“Too late, we’ve done it for you.” Then Sarah, much to my

“Yes Dad, look at that jumper, look at those jeans?” “Dad, who wears hiking socks, walking shoes and a snood to the gym?” “Yes Tom, the girls are embarrassed. Their friends are talking about you. You need a new wardrobe, urgently”, said Sarah. “Well ok, I’ll go through my stuff and - “

dismay, produced a black bin liner full of my precious old clothes. Sweatshirts, jeans and - horror of horrors - my Bruce Springsteen 2005 tour t-shirt. “Not the Boss! Please?” “No Tom, this lot is off to the charity shop in the precinct. Now, grab your coat and let’s go shopping! Err, on second thoughts, leave the coat, let’s just go.” In the vast outlet clothes store I wandered aimlessly around, fingering the rails without a clue what I was doing. Eventually I held up a pair of jeans with the very pleasing price tag of £24.99. “Sarah, what about these?” Sarah examined my choice. “You haven’t just grabbed the cheapest have you?” “Not at all.” “Right put them back and go try on these.” I examined the pair picked by Sarah. To my untrained eye, they looked identical to the

jeans I’d just chosen. Identical that is, except for the price. Sarah’s were fifty pounds dearer.

the direction of the changing rooms. I sloped away to the curtained-off area where a glum-faced child handed me an orange circle on which was printed a number two.

Sarah, shaking her head in defeat, flung back at me the cheap pair I had originally chosen. I tried them on right there in the store. Of course, they fitted perfectly. Eye rolls from Sarah, a triumphant beam from her husband.

  

“Why would I pay seventyfive pounds for something I can get for-twenty five, I just don’t…”

Grabbing the seat of the expensive jeans, Sarah pointed to a yellow logo stitched onto the rear pocket. “Look! That’s why. They are designer.”

“So, they sew a little squiggle onto the pocket and they charge you treble the price? Are you being serious?” The look from Sarah told me that yes, she was indeed being deadly serious. She picked out another pair from the rack, handed both of them over and pointed in

I battled with the first pair for what seemed like an age. Eventually I gave up, deciding that in the words of my Auntie Joyce they “Wouldn’t go near me.” The second pair I actually managed to heave myself into. And a more uncomfortable pair of pants I couldn’t imagine. Baggy round the crotch and barely covering the posterior, I assumed that this particular “Designer” - in his hurry to stitch on the magic money squiggle, had stamped them with the wrong size. Outside, I informed Sarah of the manufacturer’s error.

The next day Sarah arrived home from work to find me wearing the new jeans and another, different purchase. “Tom! What are you doing wearing that tatty old Bruce Springsteen T-shirt? I thought I gave that thing away?” “It’s very simple darling, yesterday afternoon, decided to go to the charity shop and do my bit for cancer research...” Follow Tom’s escapades at groomsdaybook.com Twitter @groomsdaybook

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Prince Charles’ Private Garden at Highgrove & Lunch

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Thursday 17 September 2015 - Quote HI9-IA

GREAT DAY OUT

 £89

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Learn the secrets of Prince Charles’ private garden

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

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£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.

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GREAT DAY OUT

£69PP

      of a phone. Research has shown it is particu  larly popular among under 35s who are used      to instant messaging in their everyday lives.  If you are looking for advice on an issue such You can now get connected to a Chiltern CAB as debt, benefits, housing, employment, rela adviser via live web chat if you are looking for tionships or other areas, you can try the new chat service by visiting help online and can’t find what you need, or if w e b you prefer to discuss problems in real time by www.chilterncab.org.uk/webchat. Advisers are typing your query rather than making a phone online from 10am – 4pm Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays and there is the facility to leave call. a ‘call back’ message at other times. You can Jennifer Allott, District Manager of Chiltern also contact Chiltern Citizens Advice Bureau at Citizens Advice Bureau said, “We are excited other times by phone, email or dropping in to a to be launching our live web chat service this centre near you. Call 01494 545991 or visit week on our new, updated website. We hope it www.chilterncab.org.uk for further information. will make it easier for people to contact us for advice in the way that they feel most comfort able with. Our live web chat is free, quick and confidential. We think it will prove particularly useful for clients who prefer getting help online and using instant messaging to communicate their problems.”

Chiltern Citizens Advice Bureau is also keen to reach out to a wider audience among the local population with the new web chat service. Live web chat is becoming a ‘turn to’ option for people contacting organisations, without hav ing to find a phone number or wait on the end

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 Short Story

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Boat Number Six Barney secured the last of the pedalos, and gazed with satisfaction out over the boating lake. The ducks were returning to Smuggler’s Island and the water was as still as a tea tray. After four years as first mate, Barney had finally been trusted to take charge. This morning, Mr Vaughn, better known as Captain, handed over the cash tin. Muttering something about a trial run, possible partnership and avoid using boat number six, he’d staggered off for an all day meeting at the Dolphin. And what a busy day it had been. The late morning sun had scorched off the clouds and by midday a queue of holiday makers had stretched along the jetty. All he had to do now was lock the shed. He opened the door and noticed two flowery beach bags hanging on the peg. Barney’s heart sank. Customers must have given them to him to take care of, and he’d neglected to return them. Captain would grumble, but it might be overlooked considering the weight of the cash tin. He then remembered the customers. How could he forget them? With supreme lack of coordination, and fits of giggles, that pair of elderly ladies had climbed aboard their pedalo. He was amazed they didn’t get a dipping. Following that fiasco, they had pedalled around in circles singing 50

‘We are sailing’ before eventually disappearing around the side of Smuggler’s Island. He also remembered that he had put them in boat number six. A canary yellow two-seater pedalo, boat number six had been patched up more times than he’d had chip suppers. Captain had retired her at the end of last season. But Barney had wanted impressive takings and that meant putting every vessel to work. With a curious feeling of dread Barney studied the pedalos sitting calmly on the darkening water. As instructed he had lined them up numerically. There was boat number five, and next to it boat number seven. Boat number six was not in position. He quickly counted the boats, and counted them again. He counted them slowly just to be certain. Boat number six was missing. On his first day in charge not only had Barney lost a vessel, he had also lost its crew. He dreaded the thought of a humiliating all night lake dredging. It was deep in places, but just how deep Barney had hoped never to find out. He glanced at his watch. He was expected in the Dolphin in ten minutes, but there was still time. He un-tethered a little rowing boat. With determined

strokes he rowed out onto the lake. The ducks quacked with annoyance. The water was worryingly still. Then he heard a sound like a rusty saw. Backwards and forwards it went, slowly, deliberately, like someone lazily sawing wood for the fire. It appeared to be coming from the bulrushes along the banks of Smugglers Island. He peered into the reeds and saw a flash of yellow. It had to be boat number six, but where was its crew? “Ahoy there!” Barney called nervously. The sawing ended abruptly. “Is anyone aboard?” “Hello?” a shaky voice replied, “wake up Gert, we must have nodded off”. In the shadows the ladies rubbed their eyes and began to stand. “I don’t want to alarm you but you’re in a pedalo”, Barney called. “I’d advise you to sit tight”. It was with great relief that Barney towed boat number six home on her final ever voyage. All the while the ladies serenaded him with ‘We are sailing’ in booming carefree voices. Barney smiled, and joined in with the chorus. by Jackie Brewster

Ltd

 Extensions Loft Conversions  Refurbishments Approved EPDM roofing contractors 20 Year Guarantee

info@kcdab.co.uk

MATCH REPORT!   CONGRATULATIONS to St Peters Iver Lionhearts u16’s on again winning the league & cup double. Unlike last season when the team won every game, this time they had to really work for their success. Having only 1 point from the opening 3 games of the season left the team with a mountain to climb and no margin for error. With a few new faces joining the team and working well with the established players they went on to win all of their remaining league games. This set up a winner takes all play off against KCA Dyna mos (Amersham) for the title. The team produced their best football of the sea son in that game to win 4/1 and became CHAMPI ONS for the 2nd consecutive season. After further success in a 2 legged semifinal against Westwood Park in the cup, the final was against HT Tornadoes (Hazlemere). A late start due to a never ending penalty shoot out in the previous age group meant it was a race against the evening light. The match couldn’t have started any worse when after only 2mins we lost a key player to hospital following a clash of heads. This added a further delay and the match had to be shortened. Thankfully his injury was not as bad as first thought and the team fought well for him in the gathering gloom to win a tight game 1/0. This completed back 2 back Doubles for the team; an amazing achievement, and a superb effort from all 20 players in the squad. There were 13 different goal scorers this season and everybody played a key part in the success. The team are hoping to continue next season at U17 and are on the look out for a new goalkeeper from school year 11 or 12 (September 2015). Matches are played on Saturday morning. If inter ested please contact Nick Jones 01753 650811. 52

  



   We have a new information and communication forum called Richings Park Today  which we hope will be another source of information, networking and support and allow you to have a voice. Please join and get involved to let us know your views on the issues that face our community.

 We hope that this will make information more easily accessible particularly for big issues such as Heathrow. Go on line and let us know what you think.

 We representyou on the new Heathrow Community Noise Forum where any problems/concerns can be taken and discussed. We are aware that ground noise, often late at night or early in the morning, is a problem for us in Richings Park but we would like to hear of any other aircraft noise issues that you would like raised. You can report ground noise events on the main website.

 We reelected a number of road stewards for this forthcoming year at the recent AGM. You can find out who they are by looking on 54

the main website. However, we still don’t have anyone to properly look after Thorney Lane South or Syke Cluan. Will you volunteer?

      If you have remember to road steward our website

not already done so please pay your subscriptions to your or at the Post Office. Details on if you lose the envelope

delivered to you.

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                        

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 

01895 438 811 07825 986 762

g g to

Making A Pest Of Themselves

 by Pippa Greenwood  

They might be small but aphids - widely known as greenfly and blackfly - 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 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 or in greenhouses and conservatories, some can be found even during the cooler winter months. They can breed rapidly 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.

The symptoms they cause include leaf yellowing or other brightly coloured discolouration, puckering, poor growth and stunting. 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 aphid56

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. If you pinch out the aphid-encrusted shoot tips on beans the problem is often solved.

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. 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 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 established they will start to breed and add to the natural ladybird population.

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.

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.

It is pretty well impossible to garden without aphids causing some grief – the best you can do is to reduce their numbers. Encouraging naturally occurring predators such as

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood. com for ladybirds and other biocontrols to control greenfly, Nemaslug, brilliant weeders, popup crop covers, copper tape and lots more besides.

infested plants. Because it is so sugary, honeydew attracts harmless but unattractive black ‘sooty moulds’.

On roses there are several species of aphid which may attack, 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.

F tu w c g th p ro ir c

D lo fi L s p b a a C v re

W n p p in e b n a D p v th S s th

T th th a o h y o b re e h w fr a fo

T 1 d

  At the end of April, Iver Village Junior School was awarded a Go Givers Certificate. Go Givers is a crosscurricular P S H E a n d c i t i z e n s h i p programme for primary schools, designed to raise standards across the curriculum. Following a f o rm a l a p p l i c a ti o n (which included detailed documentation of the School’s involvement in the Go Givers Programme) we were awarded the certificate for outstanding effort in making the children at IVJS appreciate themselves and others during

their PSHE lessons, for the fundraising they undertake for charity and for their awareness of the environment through Eco Schools. This term our choir has sung at The Royal Albert Hall. They joined with 60 other choirs from Bucks and were amazing! Music is held in high regard at IVJS and we love to sing. We have always prided ourselves on the music we produce; our twiceyearly musical productions are exceptional and the children are always enthusiastic and eagerly anticipate taking part in them. We also teach whole school drumming and ocarinas and provide instrumental lessons for any children wishing to learn to play additional instruments. Our school choir sung at several local venues last year but none as big as The Royal Albert Hall! Coming up this term we have a fun Sports’ Week booked for June where the children can try a range of sports each day.

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.

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 60

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. 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

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

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

The

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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! 66

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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 Ballet Classes Iver Heath Village Hall, Friday 4.457pm. Call L Killian 01753 814280

Hour of Power - Ultimate Workout Wed 7pm at the Evreham Sports Centre, Iver. Call 01753 672610.

   

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...

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 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 Fitness Club St Catherine School, Money Lane, West Drayton, UB7 7NX. Thu 6-7pm Circuits, Fitness and Boxercise. £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, 07906 087749 www.tauruspt.co.uk

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 Personal Training Looking for some extra help to get fit & into shape? For more info and prices call Rachel on 07745 622011 Pilates Iver Heath Village Hall on Thurs 7pm8pm call Mrs S Webb 01923 721335 Pilates Class St Peters Centre, Iver. Tuesday 7-8pm. Julie Hall 07976 966 583 continued overleaf...

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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

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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

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 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? 74

  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 Ladies Golf Every Mon & Wed, 10am at Rickmansworth Golf Club new members welcome. Email ladies-captain@rick mansworthgolf club.co.uk for details. Learn to Sail! We are an RYA approved training

centre and are open to new members, www.kingsmeadsc.org.uk FREE sailing taster sessions! 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. Richings Park Tennis Club Want play tennis? New members always welcome at our Brand New court facilities. Contact Graeme or Wendy on 01753 651071 or visit www.richingsparkltc.org.uk 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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S NOW U L L A C 663

663 01753

We take great pride in every job we undertake and are always professional. No matter what the size of the job we visit the property to get an understanding of what is required. Next we design and develop your products following your specification. Finally we professionally install and test your products to make sure everything is in working order and that you are satisfied with the end result.

3 High Street, Iver, SL0 9ND

www.alpha-windows.com / sales@alpha-windows.com /AlphaWindowsLtd 76