79339 in & around west drayton april 16 by In and Around Publishing

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 Well, whilst March seems to have flown by, for me personally, it was quite a packed month of birth day, Mothers Day and Easter celebrations. Not to mention the copious amounts of chocolates that are still hanging around the house and threaten ing to sabotage my diet at any given moment. I think I’ve probably spent half the month eating super healthily and the other simply packing my face with chocolate and cake.

Pg 16

Golden Years: Memories of 50 years ago

Local Events

On the positive front, I did complete the annual deconstruction of my garden, which simply means clearing it of dog bones and debris, before giving the grass its first cut of the year. Not a major achievement for most people, but for me it’s a big tick off my list of things to do. Now if I could just put the list away and not keep adding things to it, I might actually stop it going onto two sheets of paper. In fact, if I keep going at the rate I am, I’ll be able to paper the living room with it.

Short Story: Alpaca on the Line

Technology: Gadgets for the indoor gardener

Beauty: Spring is in the Air

Motoring: Range Rover on Test

Coffee Break Puzzles

Recipe: Pork Jambalaya

As ever, I stand in awe of those who seem to achieve everything on their list and still have time to spare. Any time management tips, always very welcome. .

RSPCA Rehoming Appeal

Interiors: Planning a Master Bedroom

Don’t be taken in by the pension scammers

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Golden Years

Memories of 50 Years Ago by Ted Bruning hovercraft would ride that made it more efficient still. At last, a craft that would rise clear out of the water! Cockerell’s design won the support of the National Research Development Council, which licensed his 1955 patent to a number of builders including Saunders-Roe; and on 11th June 1959 the four-seater 28mph SR-N1 (Saunders Roe Nautical 1) was launched. The craft was then shipped to Calais and on 25th July made the first Channel crossing by hovercraft. It wasn’t the first into service, though – that honour went to the rival Vickers-Armstrong 3, which started a scheduled ferry service across the Dee between Rhyl and Wallasey in July and August 1962. The second, launched in the same year, used a new Saunders-Roe hovercraft, SRN2, to cross the Solent between Ryde and Southsea – a service that still runs today, albeit with rather more modern craft! But the Channel was the challenge, both technically and commercially. It was open sea, the weather could be rough, and hovercraft had not so far proved themselves terribly robust (the VA-3’s career was ended by a storm). But the potential pickings were rich: international travel was becoming more affordable and more popular, and Dover and Folkestone were at full stretch. So, on that April day 50 years ago, the 38-seater SR-N6 raised itself up on its rubber skirt (an improvement designed not by Cockerell but by a naval officer called LatimerNeedham), trundled down the Ramsgate beach that would be the service’s home for the next 16 years, and set off on

the 40-minute, 35-mile journey to Calais. Connecting coaches would take passengers on to Paris for £3.7s.6d or Brussels for £2.7s.6d. Cheaper and faster they might be, but cross-Channel hovercraft never really challenged the ferry’s supremacy. Like the British airliners, the Trident and the VC-10, there wasn’t enough demand for them to justify a permanent production line: the later models even had to cannibalise each other for spare parts. The oil crisis of the early ‘70s made them less competitive; the opening of the Channel Tunnel in 1994 proved a fatal blow. The last two were retired in September 2000, just a year after the death of their inventor. Hovercraft are, of course, still in use around the world as coastal search and rescue vessels, as military transport and assault craft, as buses using frozen Alaskan rivers in winter, although they’ve never eclipsed conventional vessels as was once hoped. But the field in which they have proved most successful is one that Cockerell probably never expected: gardening. For in 1964 a Swedish engineer, Karl Dahlman, saw an early hovercraft in action...and invented the Flymo.

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The cleverest inventions often fail at what they’re intended to do but then go on to succeed brilliantly elsewhere. I could write a list, but seeing that 6th April 1966 is perhaps the most significant date in its history, let’s focus on one outstanding example: the hovercraft. We tend to think of the hovercraft as a product of our own age, and indeed it is; but the advantages of minimizing or even eliminating contact between hull and water have long been obvious. The first patent in hovercraft design was taken out by John Thornycroft (as in Vosper Thornycroft) way back in 1877 - but his was the age of steam, and no suitable engine existed. Once petrol engines were available, designers became interested in contactless or reduced-contact motorboats again - but now their inspiration was aviation technology, and between 1915 and 1940 prototypes of various steppedhull and hydroplane coastal craft were built in Austro-Hungary, Finland, the USSR, the USA amongst others. World War II put a stop to these developments, but in the 1950s a Norfolk boatbuilder, Christopher Cockerell, decided to revisit Thorneycroft’s patent. Light but powerful engines were plentiful, and Cockerell was also able to design a way of swirling the air cushion on which his 6

Happy 50tH BirtHdays to

Chris Evans (1st), Teddy Sheringham (2nd), Lisa Stansfield (11th), and Phil Tufnell (29th)

Cake and botox to you all!

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Dated Events (Apr16).qxp_Layout 1 29/03/2016 16:44 Page 1

APRIL EVENTS Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland 5th - 9th April Compass Theatre, Glebe Avenue, Ickenham, UB10 8PD. Clifford Hume is starring as the Queen of Hearts in the newly refurbished theatre. For tickets and more info 01895 250615 or visit www.hillingdontheatres.uk

Swim-a-thon in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice 17th April, 9.15am-12.30pm St Helen’s School, Northwood. Support your local hospice join our first ever Swima-thon. Free entry and free parking. Details from Laura Kaye 01923 844906 or e: lkaye@michael sobellhospice.co.uk

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Ruislip Stamp Fair 9th April The Ruislip Methodist Church Hall, Ickenham Road, HA4 7DG. For details call 01895 637283.

Local Events April 2016 8

Ickenham & Swakeleys Horticultural Society Spring Show 9th April, from 2.30pm Ickenham Village Hall, UB10 8FU. Free entry to see stunning spring flowers and enjoy teas and homemade cakes For more details visit the website www.ickenham-horticultural.org.uk and tweet @IckenhamGarden. Hillingdon Canal Club Talk 12th April Hillingdon Canal Club, Waterloo Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX. Andrew Taylor, Waterways Chaplaincy – talks about ‘The Role of the Waterways Chaplaincy’. Email: middlesex.socials @waterways.org.uk for details. HUBB Business Breakfast Event 14th April, 8am-9.30am Bay Lodge, 36 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1PH. Networking in partnership with the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce. In this presentation : ‘Living & Working with Autism’. To book email: helen.thompson@wardwilliams.co.uk or visit : www.wardwilliams.co.uk The Hardy Plant Society Middlesex Group Plant Sale 16th April, 10am-2pm The Community Hut (previously Manor Farm Hall), St. Martin’s Car Park, Ruislip, HA4 8BD. Free entry. A fine selection of both usual and unusual plants which you will not find in garden centres. Advice available if required. Contact Brian Franklin on 01923 236043 or go to our website www.hardy-plant-middlesex.org.uk

Lunchtime Classical Music Concert 27th April, 12.15pm. St Martin’s Church Hall, corner Eastcote Road and High Street, HA4 6DG. Valentin Schiedermair (Piano).

Veterans Breakfast Club 30th April The Good Yarn pub, High Street, Uxbridge. All Veterans and Military personnel welcome.

ADVANCE NOTICES Uxbridge Choral Society & Aylesbury Choral Society 22nd May, 7pm Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Botwell Lane, Hayes, Middlesex UB3 2AB. Together performing Verdi’s ‘Requiem’. Tickets: £12 (under 12’s £6) on the door or from www.uxbridgechoralsociety.org.uk Ladies in the Night Walk 10th June, Walk starts 10pm Register for the 6th Annual Michael Sobell Hospice ‘Ladies Night Walk’ (sponsored by Savills Eastate Agents) online at www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk or call 0203 826 2367 for an entry form and join us for this fantastic community event.

LIVE MUSIC EVENTS The Swan at Iver 2 High Street, Iver, SL0 9NG. 2nd April Michael Bublé tribute 8th April Solace 15th April The Flyers 22nd April 2 Tone show 29th April Introducing ‘Neighbourhood Noise’ The WatersEdge Packet Boat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. 29th April The Ramblers The Whip & Collar Swallow Street, Iver, SL0 0HU. 29th April Mark Kelly, from 9.15pm

Please send us your details to be included in the May issues by Friday 15th April.

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Alpaca On The Line By Jackie Brewster

“Once again we apologise for the delay.” Godfrey, trapped in a stuffy train carriage cluttered with empty food wrappers, rolled his eyes at the announcement. His wife, Betty, had gallantly joined the queue for the buffet, so now he was bored and had no one to entertain him. The young man opposite was absorbed in his Spycraft magazine, unconcerned that he was taking up all of Godfrey’s leg room. Godfrey had already noted from the badge pinned to the man’s shirt that his name was Daniel Goffin and that he’d been attending a first aid training course. He’d also observed from the reserved card in Daniel’s seat that they would only be sharing this table until the next station, which was of little comfort given that the train wasn’t even moving. “We are currently awaiting a farmer’s assistance to herd a stray alpaca off the line,” the announcement continued. Daniel looked up from his book. “What’s an alpaca?” he said to no one in particular. Godfrey smiled to himself. “Very good question,” Godfrey replied. “It’s interesting, isn’t it, how most people are unaware of real life espionage situations?” “Are they?” Daniel seemed amazed. “Very much so,” Godfrey continued. “I spent years in the Secret Service so I can always spot a code word when I hear it”. 10

“A code for what?” Daniel put down his magazine. “The ‘alpaca’ naturally refers to an agent on this very train who is in possession of top secret data,” he whispered. “’On the line’ means his cover’s been blown.” “Why would they announce it?” Daniel asked, dumbfounded. “That’s the interesting bit,” Godfrey said. He leaned in closer. “Now they need a ‘farmer’.” Daniel frowned. “A ‘farmer’, as that periodical you’re reading will no doubt tell you, is a civilian volunteer.” Godfrey scanned the carriage to see if anyone else was listening. “Their task is to collect the data and deposit it safely. It’s your classic dead drop.” “How?” Daniel had also started whispering. “The volunteer goes from table to table collecting up all the refuse into a special bag. It looks like a normal supermarket carrier bag but it is impregnated with a microscopic homing device.” “It’s amazing what they can do now,” Daniel said in awe. “Isn’t it just?” Godfrey agreed. “Then the bag must be placed in a rubbish bin at the next station.” Daniel looked staggered. “Why?” he said finally. “Because the agent will have placed the data in an empty coffee carton or something like that.” Godfrey tried to contain his exasperation.

“Why are you telling me this?” Daniel asked suspiciously. “Because Daniel Goffin,” Godfrey pulled a plastic bag out of his knapsack and slid it across the table, “you’ve been chosen.” “Why me?” “I believe they felt your first aid training might come in handy.” Daniel turned a shade of green. “Is there a reward?” he asked finally. “Surely serving your country is reward enough?” Godfrey said. “Think of it as a kind of jury service.” Daniel touched the carrier bag gingerly. “It’s your chance to be a hero,” Godfrey added magnificently. Daniel’s eyes sparkled. “I’ll do it.” He stood up decisively, bumping his head on the baggage rack. “Good man,” Godfrey said, “if anyone asks, this conversation never happened.” He watched him go just as Betty returned. “What’s that strange young man doing?” she said, handing him a packet of biscuits. “You’ve not been playing secret agents again have you? You did promise.” The train shunted into motion. “He’ll be alright,” Godfrey smiled, stretching out his legs. “I’ve just given him a little project to keep him busy.”

Gadgets For The Indoor Gardener  You don’t need to get dirty to grow great things 

Spring has sprung and it’s gardening season. But not everybody has a garden or access to decent growing space - and even if you do have the space, the recent stormy weather has been enough to keep all but the most determined gardener indoors. Don’t despair, though: there are plenty of gadgets that enable you to grow great things indoors or when you have limited space for green things. There are even tools to design gardens that don’t exist. If you’re also a keen cook, you’ll like the Indoor Allotment (£24.99, currently on preorder at Firebox.com): it’s a miniature herb garden complete with picket fence and storage shed. It includes basil, coriander and oregano along with everything you need to get your herbs growing - and it’s small enough to fit in the corner of a windowsill. If you fancy something a little bit more ambitious, IKEA’s Socker miniature greenhouse is just £12 with an assembled size of 45cm wide, 22cm deep and 35cm high, which is more than enough for all kinds of plants. You can also keep the roof vents partly open to improve air circulation for plants that don’t like it too hot. 12

While you’re in IKEA, it’s worth checking out their self-watering plant pots too. The Sötcitron and PS Fejö pots (from £6 to £16) are designed for those of us who don’t always remember to water our plants, and do a superb job for very little money. Fancy something a little more high-tech? The Click and Grow (€59.95 from clickandgrow.com) describes itself as a “smart garden” and uses a NASA-inspired combination of hydroponics and electronics to ensure that your plants get the right combination of water, oxygen and nutrients without you doing anything. It includes a LED lamp for maximum germination, and because it’s LED the running costs are microscopic. The creators suggest growing petunias, tomatoes, chillies, basil or thyme but it should be able to handle anything that isn’t too large. If you’ve got green fingered children, the Chuppon selfwatering animal planter (£9.99) should delight them: it’s a ceramic animal with a herb basket on its back and a straw that sips from any glass or mug. There are four animals and four herbs to choose from, although of course you can put your own herbs in instead.

Even the smartphone has made its presence felt in the world of gardening, and there are lots of apps and devices for indoor and outdoor gardening. One of the cleverest devices is the Parrot Flower Power, a wireless device that sits in your plant pot and monitors the plant’s health, sending alerts to your phone. It’s available for Apple and Android phones, measures sunlight, temperature, fertiliser and moisture, and it currently costs £42. That’s probably a bit steep if you’re growing cress, but if you’ve got something exotic or temperamental it could be a very wise investment indeed. There’s another type of digital gardening you can do, and that’s to create a virtual one in your computer - something you can do just for fun, or to plan what you’ll do to a real garden space. There are many garden planning apps to choose from, including My Garden (free from www.gardena.com/uk) and Marshalls Garden Visualiser (free from www.marshalls. co.uk). Happy gardening! Images L to R: Indoor Allotment; Chuppon selfwatering animal planter; Parrot Flower Power; Click and Grow Smart Garden.

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Beauty Finance

Don’t be Taken In By The Pension Scammers By Ann Haldon

Spring Is In The Air   Spring is a great time to clear out the makeup bag (or overflowing cupboard in my

however, especially in an unscrupulous individuals industry with such complex and criminal groups are by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk products. taking advantage of a lack of regulation within the industry, watcH out for tHese plus an uncertainty about how common new Aqua Glow Serum pHrases used best to invest such a large By tHe scammers amount of money.Foundation by Stila Specific phrases have been Inefficient systemscombines also form foundation used by conmen to garner part of the problem, enabling with a treatmentinterest serum.in their schemes, and conmen to set up It these to motivate their victims into gives great, natural case) and treat yourself to rogue pension schemes. HM taking action. They include: looking while a few Since newnew pension regulations Revenue and Customs arecoverage, not • ‘legal loophole’ to avoid hydrating and softening were introduced in 2015, pension regulators, but having paying tax on pension goodies. conmen have been using the introduced a ‘fit and proper skin. 94% of testers withdrawals if you’re under 55 new freedoms target people person’ test in 2014, they have reported dramatically • ‘sophisticated investor’ How pretty is to this approaching retirement. One of at least attempted to control the • suggesting improved skin tone. If you you invest in an new palette the scams involves telling those potential for fraudulent activity. ‘alternative’ areaoff or those can’t wait to take your makeup at the‘not from underPaul the age of 55 that a ‘legal HMRC has the power to detraditionally available’ end of the day because your review’ face feels loophole’ & Joe? allows them access register or refuse to register • ‘free pension or a ‘free to their fullan pension, with no dry and need to trypot’ this Teaming a new pension scheme, butuncomfortable, transferyou of your pension requirement to pay tax on the some have said they should foundation. It contains hyaluronic acid and eye shadow duo By telling you about a free money withdrawn (in reality, a take more responsibility other for ingredients that help to keep skin pension or government review, with a up powder rate of to 55%). what is happening to victims, scammers may be attempting hydrated for up to 12 hours after applying blush, the palette Pension monies are then rather than chasing them for tax to obtain personal and financial it. Available in 10 shades, the Aqua Glow is available two moved into aninalternative payments. information. ‘Guaranteed level Serum Foundation retails at is £34.50. scheme run by the fraudsters, shades: Papillons of investment’ also a phrase wHat exactly are tHe withPrintemps savings either stolen to watch out for, as are timede andbeing Floral Nectar new (pictured). pension freedoms? If your hair is looking a little ‘meh’, but or severely diminished after limited offers and any form Retailing at £28 each, they’re not cheap, There’s no longer there’s a extortionate charges are made still weeks to go until your next trip of pressure to make you sign requirement annuity but the‘service’. colours are easy to apply and you’llto buytoanthe for the salon, try a KC Color Mask. Available quickly, i.e. before you’re able withmirror your pension savings be the envy of the other To make matters worse, HMbathroom to accessplatinum, other professional in 14 shades, including golden in order to fund retirement, hoggers on aCustoms night out. wantit is still an option. Revenue and hasIf you really advice. although copper, plum and coffee, been sending bills&toJoe to splash out,out Paul Some people choose a staged project Bloom these masks revitalise reclaimalso tax on the amounts income drawdown, which have released some taskforce coloured hair. A small withdrawn, leaving victims involves purchasing stocks and new A new taskforce has been set of thelipsticks, scam withinnothree pension amount helps to maintain shares and cashing them in up by the government and vibrant spring shades. debt savings and in large-scale the hair colour and addto over a period of time. the National Crime Agency in some cases. brightness, while ofa pension larger Others prefer to invest in combat the problem Many people find that Howneed can tHe conmen property at home or abroad, fraud. A ‘perfect storm’ ofthe new amount can deepen they to buy a new operate so effectively? earning an income from renting pension lackapply of colour regulations, intensity. Just foundation for spring/ Although younger people out their investment, and awareness about where to to freshly washed hair, summer, theirforskin are a clearas target pension benefiting from the increase reinvest, and the fact that large combofthrough, leave for up loses its winter scammers, those hibernation aged 55 and in its capital value. People sums money are involved, over are also under threat. searching for the best return to on has ten enabled minutesscammers and washtoout. paleness. (Or that’s my With no restrictions on how their pension savings are now get away particularly with too manyuseful They’re excuse anyway.) The pension savings can be used, more vulnerable to conmen, sophisticated cons. 14

toning brassy in blonde hair, I’m finding that the sun’s reappearance It’sfor hoped thatdown Project Bloomtones systems and procedures that offering free advice. They may willand bring awareness includeThe glossy brochures be easier able to to gain access to your giving depth to tothe darker shades. means it’s a lot drag the kids out issue, however, and specific andB5 polished, personalit’ll information in this masks also contain Pro-Vitamin and well-rehearsed for a walk (although be a while before advice is offered to anyone speeches. This makes the way, and then contact you keratin derivative, to help repair thecon cuticle. we’re out of our wellies I reckon). Along concerned about their pension. entire appear legitimate directly via phone or email. Prices under £5. unless you’re aware with wet wipes and plasters, the one thing You need start to be from wary of: that this It pays to check the web • Anyone offering a ‘free type of fraud is taking place. I always take with me is Pure & Light address you’re typing in very Spring review’ demands a pension or access Organic’s Essential Bringing awareness of what’s carefully, to ensure that the site to your pension lighter, fresherpot if you’re happening is key to combating Family on-the-Go is legitimate and not part of the under the age of fifty-five crimes like this, and hopefully fragrance, and Cream. It’sfraudsters’ packed arsenal of tricks. • Offers of help to obtain a Project Bloom will help to Yardley with plant-derived pension statement, or to prevent more people suffering http://home.bt.com/lifestyle/ Londona has provide tracing service for vitamins, and helps the devastating loss of their money/investing-pensions/ lost justpensions released retirement income. to treat everything pension-liberation-scam• An thealternative perfect investment Those involved in Project from insectvictims-facing-huge-tax-billsbites and product for your pension pot Bloom include the National one. English bruises to 11364036908047 eczema. that seems too good to be Crime Agency, Serious Fraud Daisy is reminiscent of a wildflower true The 18 natural active Office, HMRC, The Pensions http://www.thisismoney. meadow – Advisory floral, but not too sweet. include The Pensions Service Regulator, the Financialingredientsco.uk/money/pensions/articleIt’s unashamedly provides free advice ifgirly, you’rewith notes Conduct Authority, and soothing the calendula, 3419232/Should-pensionworried abouthyacinth potential and scams, including white rose, Department for Work and hydrating shea butter scam-victims-let-tax-bills.html or warmed to discusswith yoursandalwood pension andPensions. musk. and nourishing options in general. And, at just £19.99 for 50ml, it’s a bit out for fake http://www.thisismoney. watcH avocado. Priced at £15, a sopHisticated of a bargain. Team it with the weBsites English it’s availableco.uk/money/pensions/articlefrom www. approacH Fraudsters are even setting 3397828/Three-tell-tale-signsDaisy body lotion, £6.50 and embrace One of the problems is that up fake websites with pureandlightorganic.eu names duped-pension-fraudsters.html the warmer weather. andbodies www.lovelula.co.uk. scammers set up sophisticated very similar to legitimate

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Home &  Interiors Motoring

Planning A Master Bedroom By Katherine Sorrell Range Rover on Test By James Baggott

a partition. little touches. Things like the We can’t escape technology soft-close doors, the illuminated anywhere, and although logos projected onto the floor watching TV is not necessarily by the wing night, conducive tomirrors a goodat night’s and the front seat armrests that sleep it is still a lovely idea to adjust to the in perfect height. – include a TV the bedroom I lovefor the in the Sunday centre ideal a fridge languorous console,lie-in the cameras all around morning with croissants, The multimedia the carand thata make it a doddle to newspaper. If you system might be coffee park,want and the splitat tailgate that don’t to look a blank showing its age automatically closes the restopens of theand time, It’s the dreaded question a little but it works well. It takes screen at thefurniture touch ofmanufacturers a button. that anyone even remotely seconds to hook your phone up fitted can provide cupboards from connected to cars fears more for music streaming, the satnav But above all it’s the fact that which TVs pop up or slide out, than any other: what’s your might look a little dated but it despite all this luxury and while music specialists offer favourite car? got us to France, Switzerland Rolls Royce-rivaling opulence, all sorts of sleek and goodand home without fail and it’s it’s still speakers so utterly capable off But finally I might have the looking and sound simple to set a DVD running road. As we arrived in Villars, answer: the Range Rover. Not systems. You will probably for the rear occupants while Switzerland, the snow was the Sport or Evoque but the also want a place to connect listening to Dad FM in the front. and falling and phone, cars were good old fashioned, full fat siteheavily a landline a beingdesk abandoned upto the Rangie. small on which pop Then there’s the size – I know mountain as snow chainsorfailed your computer, e-reader Range Rovers are massive, A looming family holiday to do their jobs. But notto the tablet, and somewhere plug but when it comes to getting looming involving a 1,500-mile Range Rover. A flick of the all in a charger for your mobile. a ski trip’s worth of luggage trip gave the perfect excuse Even in response a bedroom, you to can’t terrain button its inside, it coped admirably. to borrow the car,isand after for example, with a bedside Your bedroom a highly have too many plug sockets. Despite using the entire to boot Snow & Ice setting and away two 13-hour shifts behind the table each side;upremember personal space, but if you we went. wall-to-wall carpet Luxurious, space there was ample room wheel I can honestly say there’s are considering selling, or allow enough space (experts is always good idea for aone inside – enough to curl up for a So there a you have it. The recommend at least 450mm) nothing else I’d rather have simply want to enhance master bedroom, and pure snooze in the back and enjoy car I would buy if I had to live around the bed to give you been in. wool has your property’s value in the equally cosseting rear seats new it with it for thejust restthe of right my life. room to change the sheets. Here’s why. First,you’ll it’s super warm, soft, feel. the long term, also when my wife drove. Just as longsnuggly-toe as I could afford To create calm and order comfortable. The front seats in Choose a high quality underlay need to design it so it the £109,710 for the pleasure… For its size it’s noclutter, slouch. while minimising tryOur our Range Rover were heated for extra bounce and softness. has general appeal, says car had delightful totest include as the much storage That said, you could combine and cooled and had more Katherine as you can squeeze in. A 4.4-litre SDV8. Despite only underfloor heating with The Knowledge adjustmentsSorrell. than a home hi-fi whole wall26mpg, of fittedwith wardrobes, returning a top engineered wooden boards amplifier from the 1980s. The Your first consideration when Range with wellofthought-out andModel: beautiful rugsRover for a more speed 135mph andinternal a 0huge armchair likebedroom, seats with planning a master Autobiography drawers and divisions, is a traditional look with plenty 60mph time of 6.8 seconds, cushioned headrests never large or small, should always Price: £109,710 (withenjoy of character – and still option, and for youFrench can add it’s brisk enough dulled a muscle us with great be comfort. Zoneand the left space options) warmth underfoot. The latter free-standing such as Autoroutes. Itpieces piles on speed according how you use it – no aches to and pains. Engine: 4.4-litre though only SDV8 possible chests of drawers and blanket in a smooth and linear fashion, option, sleeping, dressing, exercising, With a five-year-old on board, if you are undertaking major Power: 339bhp / 740Nm boxes character and whilst checking your laptop, reading quietlyfor and without fuss, the £7,300 entertainment renovations, will also save the 0-60mph: 6.8seconds flexibility. Given enough floor – and, if it helps, draw a adding to the feeling of luxury pack (yes, you read that space would have been space, Topthat Speed: 135mph scaled plan of the room so travel. it may also be possible right) was a blessing. Twothe otherwise taken up with a to create a separate dressing you can play around with CO2: 219g/km However, sets the 10.2-inch rear screens radiator. area, usingwhat a tallreally bedhead, a layout. It’s nice to have and your Economy: 33.6mpg Range Rover apart are the as wireless opposite headphones bookcase or wide wardrobe bedhead the meant window, Well-designed lighting is Finding Nemo could work his fishy magic at keeping the Are We Nearly There Yets at bay until at least Dover.

an asset in any room, and the master bedroom is no different. A central pendant is fine for general, overhead light, but you can be more creative elsewhere by adding wall-mounted reading lights beside the bed, a bright, adjustable light above your dressing table and perhaps a table lamp or two to create a gentle glow. Such layers of light will provide a pleasing ambience and give you great flexibility. Conversely, for restful darkness while you are sleeping, ensure your curtains have a good blackout lining, or else choose well-fitting shutters – which will help block out noise, too. The days of carefully matched bed linen and window treatments are long gone, yet it is still important to get this combination right. When the bed is plain, some pattern

at the window is lovely, and vice versa – simply avoid two patterns that clash. Plain curtains can look absolutely beautiful if made from a generous amount of fabric, hung from a pole with pretty finials at the ends, and finished with an edging of ruffles or a contrast border. If privacy is a problem, it may be necessary to add sheer or lace curtains, either full-length or covering the bottom half of the window only. Considering adding an ensuite? Once a luxury, these days they are virtually a necessity, and will certainly make your home more saleable – and may even add value, too. If you have enough room for a walk-in wardrobe, there’s probably enough space to convert to an en-suite, though if you want a proper bath you’ll need to allow a

little more room. Alternatively, you could knock through and steal a little space from an adjacent room. When space is tight, compact fittings can be effective, but do make sure they are practical for regular use. While any arrangement is possible in theory, the least expensive place to install an en-suite bathroom is close to other plumbing, particularly the soil pipe. And, because the room leads directly off the bedroom, install low-noise sanitaryware and lights on dimmers, with a high-powered extractor fan that’s controlled separately from the light. Image - Soft carpet, sumptuous curtains and a deeply buttoned headboard all add up to a sense of luxury. Huntington bed, £1,175, Sweetpea & Willow, tel 0345 257 2627; www.sweetpeaandwillow.com.

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Pork Jambalaya  Serves 4

Ready in 55 minutes

 Cooked in just one pan and on the table in less than an hour this is a great midweek family supper. Serve with garlic bread or a mixed green salad, if liked.

Ingredients: • 1 tbsp groundnut oil • 100g chorizo sausage, sliced • 350g pork loin steaks, cut into chunks • 1 onion, peeled and chopped • 3 celery stalks, trimmed and chopped • 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed • 2 tsp smoked paprika, plus extra for sprinkling • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning • 225g easy-cook long grain rice • 700ml vegetable stock • 100g fine green beans, chopped • 1 large yellow pepper, deseeded and diced

TIP

You can replace the pork in this recipe with diced chicken breast fillet or boneless thigh fillets. Alternatively use large raw king prawns and add them to the pan in step 4 and cook until pink. 20

Heat 1 tsp of the oil in a large deep frying pan and fry the chorizo over a high heat until golden and the fat starts to run. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Add the diced pork to the pan and fry for 2-3 minutes, stirring all the time until browned. Remove and set aside with the chorizo. Add the rest of the oil to the pan and fry the onion, celery and garlic for 5 minutes until beginning to soften. Stir in the spices and rice and cook, stirring, over a medium heat for 2 minutes then pour in the stock and bring to the boil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Return the pork to the pan and cover and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the chorizo, green beans and yellow pepper into the pan and cook, uncovered, for a further 6-7 minutes until the rice and vegetables are tender, adding a little more stock if necessary. Serve sprinkled with a little more smoked paprika and freshly ground black pepper.

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The RSPCA Hillingdon, Slough, Windsor, Kingston and District Branch Registered Charity No: 263515

Thank you for your support . We can’t do it without you!

It is with great sadness we have to TINY TIM & TINA 12 WEEKS OLD announce that our Crescent Parade This adorable pair actually came to us separately. furniture and children’s shop will be Tiny Tim was found in a back garden and Tina was closing by the end of June this year. an unwanted pet, at such a young age these ador

able kittens are looking for a forever home. They do love each other’s company and they can be a Our fashion and general shop further along the bit mischievous, but they love a fuss and the atten parade at no 12/13 will be staying very much open, tion. Could you offer this lovely pair a forever extending its rear area to accommodate children’s home? wear and electrical. Furniture will transfer to our large Ashford Middlesex store. Bringing a new kitten home is exciting, but it’s a big commitment. You’re providing a cat with a loving It has been impossible to make ends meet of late home for the next 14+ years of their life. They on the furniture, very labour and vehicle intensive need lots of time and attention so the decision to and competition with corporate discount stores get a new feline family member should never be hard to compete with. Profits have dropped and taken lightly. the sad decision not to renew the lease has been reached by the Trustees. Wherever your kitten comes from, it should be sociable and brighteyed with no visible health There will be a limit to the amount of children’s problems. A kitten also shouldn’t be taken away toys and clothes we will be able to accept – any from their mother until they are eight or nine weeks ideas welcome!! old. Getting your girl cat spayed protects her from getting pregnant, your cat will need to go the vet to We would love to hear from anyone willing to offer have a simple operation called spaying. It’s impor some voluntary hours in our main shop on Cres tant to have her spayed before she is fourmonths cent Parade, anything from 2.5 hour shifts. old to protect her from getting pregnant while she's still a kitten herself. You may have heard that it’s Our charity shops are our lifeline to animal welfare, good for cats to have a litter of kittens before they without the income from our shops we would not are spayed  but this isn’t true. Once she has been be able to help the 10k+ animals that come spayed your kitten will be able to do all the things through the Hillingdon clinic each year. Local ani cats enjoy doing, like going outdoors, climbing mals rely on the success of these shops so any trees and playing. help anyone could offer would be appreciated. If you think you can offer one of our animals a In the interim period the furniture shop will only be loving home then please ring RSPCA Hillingdon open occasionally as voluntary staff are available. Branch on 01895 833417 or visit our website Many thanks for your understanding and support. www.rspcahillingdonclinic.org.uk to download an application form 24

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Home & Interiors Planning A Master Bedroom

By Katherine Sorrell

a partition. We can’t escape technology anywhere, and although watching TV is not necessarily conducive to a good night’s sleep it is still a lovely idea to include a TV in the bedroom – ideal for a languorous Sunday morning lie-in with croissants, coffee and a newspaper. If you don’t want to look at a blank screen the rest of the time, fitted furniture manufacturers can provide cupboards from which TVs pop up or slide out, while music specialists offer all sorts of sleek and goodlooking speakers and sound systems. You will probably also want a place to connect and site a landline phone, a small desk on which to pop your computer, e-reader or tablet, and somewhere to plug in a charger for your mobile. Even in a bedroom, you can’t have too many plug sockets. Luxurious, wall-to-wall carpet is always a good idea for a master bedroom, and pure new wool has just the right warm, soft, snuggly-toe feel. Choose a high quality underlay for extra bounce and softness. That said, you could combine underfloor heating with engineered wooden boards and beautiful rugs for a more traditional look with plenty of character – and still enjoy warmth underfoot. The latter option, though only possible if you are undertaking major renovations, will also save the space that would have been otherwise taken up with a radiator. Well-designed lighting is

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Your bedroom is a highly personal space, but if you are considering selling, or simply want to enhance your property’s value in the long term, you’ll also need to design it so it has general appeal, says Katherine Sorrell. Your first consideration when planning a master bedroom, large or small, should always be comfort. Zone the space according to how you use it – sleeping, dressing, exercising, checking your laptop, reading – and, if it helps, draw a scaled plan of the room so you can play around with the layout. It’s nice to have your bedhead opposite the window, 28

for example, with a bedside table each side; remember to allow enough space (experts recommend at least 450mm) around the bed to give you room to change the sheets. To create calm and order while minimising clutter, try to include as much storage as you can squeeze in. A whole wall of fitted wardrobes, with well thought-out internal drawers and divisions, is a great option, and you can add free-standing pieces such as chests of drawers and blanket boxes for character and flexibility. Given enough floor space, it may also be possible to create a separate dressing area, using a tall bedhead, a bookcase or wide wardrobe as

 

Image - Soft carpet, sumptuous curtains and a deeply buttoned headboard all add up to a sense of luxury. Huntington bed, £1,175, Sweetpea & Willow, tel 0345 257 2627; www.sweetpeaandwillow.com.

Beauty

Finance

Don’t be Taken In By The Pension  Scammers By Ann Haldon

Spring Is In The Air 

however, especially in an unscrupulous individuals industry with such complex and criminal groups are products. taking advantage of a lack of by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk regulation within the industry, watcH out for tHese plus an uncertainty about how common new Aqua Glow Serum pHrases used best to invest such a large Spring is a great time to tHe scammers amount of money. Foundation byBy Stila Specific phrases have been clear out the makeupInefficient bag (or systems also form foundation combines used by conmen to garner overflowing cupboard myproblem, with partin of the enabling interest in their schemes, and a treatment serum. conmen to set up these tonatural motivate their victims into It gives great, case) and treat yourself to rogue pension schemes. HM taking action. They include: looking coverage, while Since new pension are not a few new regulations Revenue and Customs • ‘legal loophole’ to avoid were introduced in 2015, pension regulators, but having and softening hydrating paying tax on pension goodies. conmen have been using the introduced a ‘fit and skin. proper94% of testers withdrawals if you’re under 55 new freedoms to target people person’ test in 2014, they have • ‘sophisticated investor’ reported dramatically How pretty is this approaching retirement. One of at least attempted to control the • suggesting improved If youyou invest in an palette thenew scams involves telling those potential for fraudulent activity. skin tone. ‘alternative’ area or those ‘not can’t wait to take your makeup off at the under age of 55 that a ‘legal fromthe Paul HMRC has the power to detraditionally available’ loophole’ end of the day• ‘free because your face or feels & Joe?allows them access register or refuse to register pension review’ a ‘free to their full pension, with no a new pension scheme, transfer ofyou yourneed pension pot’this dry but and uncomfortable, to try Teaming an requirement to pay tax on the some have said theyfoundation. should It contains hyaluronic acid and By telling you about a free eye shadow duo money withdrawn (in reality, a take more responsibility for pension government other ingredients thatorhelp to keep review, skin with a powder rate of up to 55%). what is happening to victims, scammers may be attempting hydrated for up to 12 hours after applying blush,monies the palette Pension are then rather than chasing them for tax to obtain personal and financial it. Available in 10 shades,‘Guaranteed the Aqua Glow moved into an alternative payments. is available in two information. level scheme run by the fraudsters, Serum Foundation retails at £34.50. of investment’ is also a phrase shades: Papillons wHat exactly are tHe with savings either being stolen to watch out for, as are timede Printemps and Floral Nectar (pictured). new pension freedoms? or severely diminished after If your hair is limited lookingoffers a little but and‘meh’, any form There’s no longer a Retailing at £28 each, they’re not cheap, extortionate charges are made there’s still weeks to go until your next of pressure to make you signtrip requirement to buy an annuity colours are easy to apply and you’ll forbut thethe ‘service’. quickly, before you’re able to the salon, try a KCi.e. Color Mask. Available with your pension savings thematters envy ofworse, the other mirror Tobe make HM bathroom access other professional in order to fund retirement, in 14 shades,toincluding platinum, golden Revenue and advice. hoggers onCustoms a night has out. If you although really want it is still an option. copper, plum and coffee, been sendingout, out bills Some people choose a staged to splash Paulto& Joe project theseBloom masks revitalise reclaim tax on the amounts income drawdown, which have also released some taskforce withdrawn, leaving victims coloured hair. A small involves purchasing stocks and A new taskforce has been set lipsticks, in pension three of new the scam with no amount helps toand maintain shares and cashing them in up by the government savings and in large-scale debt vibrant spring shades. over a period of time. the hair Crime colourAgency and add the National to in some cases. Others prefer to invest in combat the problem of pension brightness, while a larger Many people find that How can tHe conmen property at home or abroad, fraud. A ‘perfect of new amount canstorm’ deepen the they need to buy a new operate so effectively? earning an income from renting pension regulations, lack of colour intensity. Just apply foundation for people spring/ Although younger out their investment, and awareness about where to to freshly washed hair, summer, as their skin are a clear target for pension benefiting from the increase reinvest, and the fact that large scammers, 55 and in its capital value. People sums of money are leave involved, comb through, for up loses its those winteraged hibernation over are also under threat. searching for the best return onto has enabled scammers to out. ten minutes and wash paleness. (Or that’s my With no restrictions on how their pension savings are now get away with too many They’re particularly useful excuse anyway.) The pension savings can be used, more vulnerable to conmen, sophisticated cons. 30

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 

for hoped toningthat down brassy tones in systems blonde and hair,procedures I’m finding the sun’s reappearance It’s Project Bloom that that offering free advice. They may andbring giving depth totodarker shades. Theglossy brochures means it’s a lot be easier to gain dragaccess the kids out will awareness the include able to to your issue, and specific well-rehearsed personal this maskshowever, also contain Pro-Vitaminand B5 polished, and for a walk (although it’ll information be a while in before advice offered to anyone This makes and Ithen contact you keratinisderivative, to help repairspeeches. the cuticle. we’rethe out of ourway, wellies reckon). Along concerned about their pension. entire con appear legitimate directly via phone or email. Prices start from under with wet You need to be wary of: £5. unless you’re aware that thiswipes and plasters, the one thing paysme to check the& web always takeIt with is Pure Light • Anyone offering a ‘free type of fraud is takingIplace. address you’re typing in very Spring demands pension review’ oraaccess Organic’s Essential Bringing awareness of what’s carefully, to ensure that the site lighter, to yourfresher pension pot if you’re Family on-the-Go happening is key to combating is legitimate and not part of the under the age fragrance, andof fifty-five crimes like this, and hopefully Cream. It’s packed fraudsters’ arsenal of tricks. •Yardley Offers of help to obtain a Project Bloom will help to with plant-derived pension statement, or to prevent more people suffering London vitamins, andhttp://home.bt.com/lifestyle/ helps provide has a tracing service for the devastating loss of their money/investing-pensions/ just lostreleased pensions retirement income. to treat everything pension-liberation-scam•the Anperfect alternative investment from insect bites and Those involved in Project victims-facing-huge-tax-billsproduct for your pension pot one. English Bloom include the National bruises to eczema. 11364036908047 that seems too good to be Crime Agency, Serious Fraud Daisy is reminiscent of a wildflower The 18 natural active true Office, HMRC, The Pensions meadow – floral, but not too sweet. http://www.thisismoney. ingredients include The Pensions Advisory Service Regulator, the Financial co.uk/money/pensions/articleIt’s unashamedly with notes soothing calendula, provides free advicegirly, if you’re Conduct Authority, and the 3419232/Should-pensionincluding hyacinth and white rose, worried about potential scams, Department for Workhydrating and shea butter scam-victims-let-tax-bills.html or to discuss pension and musk. warmed withyour sandalwood Pensions. and nourishing options general. And, atinjust £19.99 for 50ml, it’swatcH a bit out for fake http://www.thisismoney. avocado. Priced at £15, ofsopHisticated a bargain. Team it with the English a co.uk/money/pensions/articleweBsites it’s available from www. approacH Fraudsters are evenpureandlightorganic.eu setting Daisy body lotion, £6.50 and embrace 3397828/Three-tell-tale-signsOne of the problems is that up fake websites with names duped-pension-fraudsters.html the warmer weather. and www.lovelula.co.uk. scammers set up sophisticated very similar to legitimate bodies

Pets Corner... (Apr16).qxp_Layout 1 30/03/2016 12:38 Page 1

Spring has sprung - some seasonal tips... NOT really a spring peril but this is an opportunity to issue a warning about jerky treats. There have been numerous reports of dogs suffering from illness following ingestion of these. Some dogs have been just a bit off colour but a number have suffered severe kidney failure. Many will recover following treatment and withdrawal of the treats but some dogs have died. In most cases these have been chicken or duck jerky treats from China, fed in large quantities. We are not sure why these are causing problems so currently advise not to feed these treats at all.

Tulips and daffodils are poisonous, especially their bulbs, however lilies pose a particular hazard for cats because they are attracted to them and all parts are very toxic including the pollen. Cats often sniff the pollen or get it on their coats and groom it off. This applies especially to lilies indoors and it is advisable that anyone with cats to avoid accessible displays of this flower.

 ! ! G G N N I I N RN A AR W W 

After another mild winter there’ll certainly again be a glut of slugs and snails in our gardens. Puppies will often eat them by choice but even if adult dogs don’t they could accidentally ingest the larvae from eating grass and ingesting the slime trail. Slugs and snails transmit Lungworm which is a serious and frequently fatal disease. Clearing slugs and snails from the garden is a near impossible task so it is important to prevent Lungworm as it is difficult to treat. Thankfully this is easily achievable with effective products from your vet. Beware if you are putting down slug bait that it is palatable and toxic to dogs so you must prevent them gaining access to it. Coco-shell mulch is a popular product in use in gardens these days. Remember, all chocolate products are toxic to pets and the coco-shell, which is attractive to dogs, is particularly rich in theobromine, the poisonous ingredient. It is much safer to use alternatives such as tree bark. The pollen count will be going up as hayfever sufferers know and animals, especially dogs, can suffer from ‘hayfever’ too. They rarely however snuffle and sneeze but suffer from atopic dermatitis especially on the paws, belly and ears - chronic ear conditions are often caused by this. While grass is a natural diet for rabbits, spring lawn grass is lush and low in fibre and can cause diarrhoea so allow access sparingly. Remember: never to give lawn mowings to rabbits or guinea pigs as it will ferment and cause diarrhoea. While on this subject, be aware of fly strike. This is something I cannot repeat too often. Check your rabbit’s bottom every day, especially during warm spells, for signs of contamination with faeces and urine and clean it thoroughly if it is dirty. Special long-lasting fly repellent products are available to apply to the skin. If you see evidence of fly eggs and maggots wash them off and seek immediate veterinary advice. 32

As the weather warms up so fleas and other skin parasites become more active so remember to re-start or continue adequate flea and parasite control.

M C Atkinson BVSc MRCVs www.stmartinsvetclinic.com

Go On, Grow Your Own! by Pippa Greenwood   

Enjoying a delicious meal which includes some home grown ingredients is a wonderful feeling – it fills you full of just the right sort of pride (and maybe even a little bit of smugness!). It simply feels good to indulge in a bit of Grow Your Own and then reap the rewards.

You may well have been sowing and potting on vegetables for a while now, but if you’re behind schedule or haven’t produced vegetables before, don’t panic – there’s still time to grow just about any crop in your plot this year. Most plants can be raised from seed now, but there are a few that are likely to give a much better yield with an earlier start. Instead, buy in plants of crops such as tomatoes, sweet peppers, chilli peppers, melons and aubergines over the next month or so. Some vegetables can be directly sown now into wellprepared garden soil in a suitable spot in all but the coolest gardens – beetroot, lettuce, beans, peas, carrots, rocket, spinach to name but a few. Slightly more tender crops such as sweetcorn, squash and courgettes fare better if given a bit of extra heat when you are 34

germinating the seeds, which is where an electrically heated propagator really comes into its own. The seedlings may then need pricking out and potting on until they are sturdy enough to live in the great outdoors, but try to ‘harden off’ the young plants before placing them into their final positions as they may be damaged by cold, wind or rain. Put the young plants outside on warm days once the weather has stabilised, and bring them back under cover at night. Leave them outside after a week or so, covering them with fleece at night to let them acclimatise.

To save time, you can buy in small plants and you will get a good range from seed merchants or garden centres, but if you would like advice from me to ensure great results, don’t forget that you can still order garden-ready plants, accompanied by weekly advice and tips emails specific to the vegetables you’ve chosen to grow. There are more details at www.pippagreenwood. com/grow-your-own and you can use the code 12419-E7SPS at the checkout to get £4.00 discount, whichever pack size you choose. Garden-ready plants can be planted out immediately and, provided you

follow the instructions, keep them well-watered during drier weather and apply feed at regular intervals, you will soon be harvesting crops such as climbing French and runner beans, tomatoes, sweetcorn, sugar-snap peas, peppers, chillies, onions, melons, butternut squash, beetroot and courgettes.

Most vegetables need a good fertile soil and a sunny or partly shaded spot, so choose your growing area with care. If space is limited, don’t worry – most vegetables will do well in good sized containers (minimum 30cm x 30cm x 30cm) with good-quality compost, though bigger pots will need less frequent watering. But, whether you plant and sow vegetables in pots, tubs, greenhouses or open ground, the end result will be gorgeous tasting, superfresh vegetables. So go on, get growing! Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ - fantastic UK grown vegetable plants of your choice plus weekly advice and tips emails from Pippa, Nemaslug, biological controls, pop-up crop covers, signed books and lots more besides.

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HOBBIES...

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

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

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

Yiewsley Angling & West Drayton Fishing Clubs Thurs 8-10.30pm, Yiewsley & West Outline Theatre Group Drayton Community Centre. At St. Matthews Church, Yiewsley. Every For more details call 01895 443423 Tue 7.30-9.30pm. All welcome from 8yrs+. See www.outlinetheatre. co.uk or KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA... call Robert Jones on 01895 446352 Painting Group - Morning Tues 10am-1pm. Experienced watercolorists very welcome at Southlands Arts Centre. Tel: 01895 421328 Spinning & Weavers Group Tues 7.30-9.30pm at Southlands Arts Centre. Tel: 01895 443481

The Language Clubs of Hillingdon From late Sept until mid-July. Visitors welcome, Speak some German, Spanish, French or Italian? Want to practise speaking and listening in friendly groups, with recent learners, improvers & native speakers? Join a Hillingdon Family History Society Language Club! Each Club meets on a At Hillingdon Park Baptist Church, different Thursday of the month at 7.45 Hercies Road, Hillingdon. Research pm in St Giles' Church Hall, Swakeleys room open (10am-1pm) every Fri (except the Fri before the first Sat of the Road, Ickenham UB10 8BG. For details: German Club 01895 254 723; Italian month). On the first Sat of the month Club 020 8863 3468; Spanish Club and open 10am-1pm at Uxbridge Library. French Club 01895 253 472 Experienced help available. See www.hfhs.co.uk . Contact Mrs P. Uxbridge Chess Club Reynolds 01895 444442 or email Meet at the Ivy Leaf Club, 1st floor, 8 hillingdonfhs@onetel.com Wellington Rd, UB8 2AP. Every Wed, 7.30pm. All welcome. Parking, bar, tv. Hillingdon Railway Modellers Club Tuition available. Free initially, then Meet every Thursday, 7.30pm at cheap membership. Info: Peter Lord at Yiewsley Baptist Church. Contact peter-lord@tiscali.co.uk and 01895 tonymoth@Hotmail.co.uk 236973 or just turn up! Hillingdon Natural History Society Uxbridge Craft Market Meets 1st wed of the month at the Every Wednesday (9am-5pm) at The Scout HQ, Gatting Way, Uxbridge. Pavilions Shopping Centre Arts, Crafts, enquiries@hillingdonGifts and Collectables naturalhistorysociety.org.uk www.uxbridge-craft-market.co.uk Inland Waterways Association Wednesday Stitch Club Meet 2nd Tues of every month at 10-12noon at Hillingdon Tennis Club . Hillingdon Canal Club, Waterloo Road, All abilities, Tutorial, White work, gold Uxbridge, UB8 2QX, 7.30pm. work, crewel work etc. Your choice! Call middlesex.social@waterways.org.uk sue 0208 868 8052. Iver Flower Club West Drayton & District The Coppins Room, Iver Village Hall, History Society Grange Way, Iver, SL0 9HW. Meets The society meets on the last 4th Thursday of month, 7.30pm. Tuesday of each month Sep-May Call Jayne on 07730 249876. (excluding Dec) at St Martins www.bbando.org.uk/clubs/iver Harlington Locomotive Society Every Thursday, 8pm at the club in High Street, Harlington, Hayes, Middlesex UB3 5ET. For details call Peter Tarrant on 01895 851168

Church Hall, Church Road at 7.30pm. Each month there is a talk of either local or national interest. During the summer months a programme of visits and walks are arranged. Membership £8 per year. Call either Diane 07599 730640 or Cyril 07704 837042 for details.

Bokwa Fitness Tone & Core Energetic workout that anyone can pick up, dancer or not. Wednesdays 6.15pm7.10pm, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Contact Penny, 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk Dance, Gymnastics and Free Running Classes Presented by Futunity Uk in Uxbridge Town Centre & Hillingdon Sports & Leisure centre. Ages 2-adults catered for and all styles of dance from RAD ballet, Contemporary & ISTD Tap to Break Dancing , Street Dance, Hip Hop & Zumba. Check out our website for full class listings, www.futunityuk.com. Contact Futunity Uk Head Office 01895 251224 or email admin@futunityuk.com Fitness Club St Catherine School, Money Lane, West Drayton, UB7 7NX. Thursday 6-7pm. Circuits, Fitness and Boxercise. £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, www.tauruspt.co.uk Tel: 07906 087749 Irish Dancing classes Children age 5 upwards. Beginners and advanced classes. Monday, 6pm at Hayes Conservative Club, Church Rd Wednesday, 6pm at Greenford Visitati on Catholic church hall Contact Deidre e: Deirdreosullivan@ hotmail.co.uk t: 07956 346383 Ladies Only Kickboxing Club Wednesdays, 6.30-8.00pm at Watts Hall, Redford Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1SZ. First Class FREE! Just turn up or call Instructor Leanne Phillips on 07518 848285 e: leanne @kickboxing-longdon.co.uk www.kickboxing-london.co.uk

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KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA CONTINUED...

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

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

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

Nordic Walking & Wellbeing Explore our borough’s green spaces . with all round exercise in the open air 4 wk courses various days and locations pre-booking essential contact 07771 872 592 / learningmoves@hotmailco.uk Pilates and Tai Chi Fit courses Tuesdays 7.30-8.30pm, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Contact Penny 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk Pinewood Fitness The Fitness Room, Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, Sl0 0NH Mon 20.00-21.00, Wed 19.30-20.30 Booking only. Various Fitness Circuits, Boxercise, Gym Work £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, www.tauruspt.co.uk 07906 087749 Salsa Classes Every Monday: The Middlesex Arms, Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HG. Beginners class starts 8pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.459.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm. Every Wednesday: The WatersEdge, Canal Cottages, Packetboat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. Beginners class starts 7:30pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.3038

9.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm

Tai Chi Classes Sat 10-11am, Yiewsley Methodist Church, Fairfield Road, UB7 8EY. Call Dan on 07880 601429 to book. Tai Chi Fit Designed for modern life. Wed 09.3010.30am. Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre UB7 9JL. Contact Penny 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk Tap Dance Mondays 7.30-8.30pm at Meadows Community Centre, West Drayton. Adult Beginner/Intermediate tap. No exams. Contact 01895 420409 / learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk. Yoga for All Wednesday 7.30-9.00pm Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Priya 01895 440712

Zumba Mon 6pm, Walter Pomeroy Hall, Royal Lane Hillingdon UB8 3QU. Tues 7.30pm, St Marys Church Hall, Hemmen Lane (off Church Rd, Hayes) UB3 2JQ. All welcome. £5. Ann-Marie Samuels 07701 012927 Zumba Fitness Class Weds 8-9pm at Langley Grammar School Sport Centre Reddington Drive Langley, SL3 8LL. Thurs 7-8pm at Yiewsley / West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Rd, West Drayton. UB7 9JL. Gabriel 07735 090325 or gabrielzumba@instructor. net www.gabriel84.zumba.com PRE-SCHOOL & KIDS GROUPS... Mobile Disco for Children A mobile disco available for hire, for children of all ages call Zoe on 07747 063149 for details. Slough Sea Cadets Parade nights on Mon and Thu 19.30-21.30 at Langley Pavillion, Langley Road, Slough, SL3 8BS. Male & Female Junior Cadets (age 10-12yrs) & Cadets (age 1218yrs). Fees £2pw, courses from £5. Email: sloughseacadets@yahoo.co.uk Stars at Knight After school Drama Club for children 7-18 yrs at Southlands Art Centre, 76 The Green, West Drayton.

Tel: 0208 841 8940 / 07956 123626 e: starsatknightdrama@gmail.com www.starsatknight-schoolofdrama.co.uk

MUSIC... Faraday Country Music Club In Slough SL2 1RN. Join us for the best live Country Music. From 811pm. Call Deb 07986 050742 www.faradaycountry.co.uk Guitar lessons Complete beginners welcome. Contact Sam for a FREE lesson 07798 588496 sam@uxbridgeguitarlessons.co.uk The Rock Project Greater London School of Rock & Pop where we teach 7-18 year olds how to play guitar, bass, drums and vocals in small groups and as a band. Sessions run Wed's at Nower Hill High School, Pinner and Thurs at Vyners School, Ickenham. Juniors (7-11) 4.156.15pm and Seniors (11-18) 6.308.30pm. £20 per two - hourly session. Contact Pritpal on 07855 863058 or email uxbridge@therockproject.com.

Yiewsley & West Drayton Band Rehearse every Wednesday and Friday 8-10pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. To join or book the band for an engagement contact Lynne on 07976 824152 or email Lynne@ywdband.com Yiewsley & West Drayton Training Band This is open to all ages wanting to learn to play a brass instrument or those of you wanting to 'brush up' your skills. Rehearse every Wednesday during term time 6.457.45pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. Contact Abi on 07985 302 856 or emailtraining@ywdband.com PETS... Iver Dog Training Club Every Tue and Fri 6.30pm-9.00pm at St Andrews Church, Richings Park. Call Diana 01753 732907 Iver Heath Fields Dog Club 'Outdoor Training' every Sat at 10.15am, Wed at 11am. Call Mike on 01753 817852 or 07795 031335 continued over...

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SELF DEFENCE...

SELF HELP & SUPPORT...

Close Quarter Combat Based in Richings Park. Specialising in speed, strength and conditioning training. Pad work combinations. Suitable for men & women of all ages. 1-2-1 sessions. Call Mark 07525 366126 e: mj.wilding@hotmail.com

Alcoholics Anonymous Meet every Sunday, 7.30pm at St Leonards Hall, St Leonards Walk, Richings Park, Iver, SL0 9DD. For more call Howard 07816 315688. Hillingdon Brain Tumour Group Support group held every 2nd Thurs of the month 12.30-2.30pm, Hillingdon Baptist Church, Hercies Rd, Hillingdon, UB10 9LS. Call Cyril or Becky 01895 637444. Rosemary Conley Every Thursday 10-11.30am, Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Call Sarah on 0208 569 0181 Slimming World The Salvation Army, Cowley Road, Uxbridge. Tuesday 7pm Tel: Nicki 07826 698360 New Denham Community Centre Tuesday, 10-11.30am. Tel: Mandy 07879 897578 Yiewsley Methodist Church, Farfield Road, Yiewsley. Wednesdays 5pm or 6.45pm. Tel: Nicki 07826 698360 Weight Watchers Every Tuesday, 5.30pm and Friday at 10.00am Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Call 01784 256974 or 07879 455882

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Karate Club of Denham For ages 5 years and upwards. Sundays 9.15-11am at New Denham Community Centre, Oxford Road. Call 07988 743725 Karate Club of Uxbridge For ages 5 years and upwards. Wed 5-7pm at The Greenway, Uxbridge. Call 07988 743725

Kung Fu Club (Ladies only) A work out for all ladies, at all levels of fitness on Monday and Thursday mornings from 9.30 to 10.30am. West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Road, UB7 9JL. Contact Ella: 07702 479 435 or sportsclubuk@gmail.com Heathrow Boxing Club Men & women, boys & girls Junior Boxing Club: Tue & Thu, 5pm. Senior Boxing Club Mon, Tue & Thu, 8pm. 422 Bath Road, Longford, Middlesex, UB7 0EB. Tel: 0208 123 1271. Martial Arts Bujinkan Kuri Dojo Ninjutsu and Bujutsu, Unit 21 Bridgeworks, UB8 2JG. Tel: 07878 471124. Training: Sunday 10.30am-12.30pm, Tuesday 8-10pm, Thursday 8.3010pm www.bujinkankuridojo.co.uk Shorinji Kempo Self Defence Learn the practical self defence techniques of this traditional Japanese martial art. Tue 6-7pm children (£2), 7-9pm adults (£5). The Barn, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge. Call Dan 07776 421957. www.sk.harrow.ac.uk Silat Kuntao Indonesian Self-Defence Traditional self-defence, includes empty hand, weapons, meditation and healing massage. Adult classes only. Mon and Wed 8pm-10pm at Denham Village Memorial Hall, Denham, UB9 5BN. Call Philip Davies 07790 496 346 or kuntao.matjan.uk@gmail.com. 40

SOCIAL GROUPS... Colne Valley Park Conservation Vols Every second weekend of the month. Hands on help to protect the wildlife and local landscape. Contact Steve Ord. steven.ord@groundwork.org.uk or call 07718 043080. Harlington Women’s Institute Every 1st Wed of month, 7.309.30pm at Landsdown House, St Peter's Way Hayes UB3 5AB. Call Sarah Wilson 0208 759 0019 Over 60s Social Group Male, Female and couples. Meet fortnightly at various agreed venues. Judith 07980 073170 Mel 07785 582323 jlholl2014@gmail.com Over 65s Wellbeing Sessions Every Friday from 1:30-3:30pm. Creative art & craft activities & chair & standing exercise for over 65s at Yiewsley Cornerstone Centre, 74 Colham Ave. Yiewsley UB7 8HF. Sessions free. Call 01895 458310 www.yiewsleycornerstone.co.uk.

Southlands Ladies Group Talks, outings, own evenings. Mon fortnightly. Call 01895 445766 Senior Citizens Welfare Association Bingo played every 4th Wednesday of month 1- 3.30pm. Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Transport available. 01895 443423 Chair Exercise Classes Mondays 11am-11.45am. Call 01895 443423 for details or pop along to the West Drayton Community Centre. Tea Dancing 2-4pm every Tuesday at Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre Uxbridge Veterans Breakfast Club A social event and meets on the last Saturday of the month at The Good Yarn, High St, Uxbridge (opp. Tesco). At 9.30am, open to all Veterans of the UK Armed Forces and their Allies and current serving Personnel. Women’s Social Group Looking to make new friends? Social group for women. Call Seema 07730 898635 or seemaa@seemaa.co.uk SPORT... Hayes & Harlington Road Runners Includes beginners sessions for anyone looking to start running. Every Wed, 8pm at Hayes and Harlington Community Association, Albert Road, Hayes. E: jack.nisbet@talk21.com www.hhroadrunners.com. Ladies Golf Meets 10am every Monday and Wednesday at Rickmansworth Golf Club new members welcome. Email ladies-captain@rickmansworthgolf club.co.uk for further details. Uxbridge Squash Club All welcome. Uxbridge Cricket Club, Park Rd, Uxbridge. E: squash@ uxbridgesquash.org.uk or visit: www.uxbridgesquash.org.uk. Yiewsley & West Drayton Bowls Club Interested? Come along, just bring your flat shoes! Tuesdays 2pm. Call Kenny Smith 07957 140627. Table Tennis Eastcote Community Association require new players to play in Wembley & Harrow League. Call Eve & George Gibson on 01895 636106.

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e is pt y s. n rt

SITUATIONS JOB OPPORTUNITIES

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED

De Vere Venues, a unique collection of iconic city centre hotels, business centres & tranquil countryside venues, now have exciting opportunities available! Recruiting now at De Vere Venues, Denham Grove, Tilehouse Lane, UB9 5DG Restaurant & Bar Team Members –  Food & Beverage Supervisor Food & Beverage Manager Assistant Conference & Banqueting Manager

Reliable people wanted to deliver our local magazines once a month. Areas include Iver, West Drayton & Uxbridge. Minimum age 14 years Pay £7 per 100

VERY COMPETITIVE SALARY AND BENEFITS! If you love hospitality and are looking for an exciting challenge email your CV to: pchotai@deverevenues.co.uk Contact: 01895 833 338 www.deverevenues.co.uk

Answers pg 41

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