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Well, it’s finally here! The last magazine issue of the year and the countdown to Christmas. In and Around Publishing is coming up to its ninth year very soon and this year has been the busiest yet. With six magazines all now successfully thriv ing and growing and the possibility of more in the new year, stress and excitement are filling the office in equal measures. (Although much of my excitement is the thought of finally going away for a week at the beginning of the new year) With this issue going through the doors, we just have the January issues to get to print, before we can finish our Christmas shopping and start really talking turkey! As ever, it’s been a pleasure serving you all and I should like to thank you for your wonderful sup port. Every month we receive calls and emails from people who are always so enthusiastic about the magazines and it’s those comments that often drive us along when the workload is piling up. We would especially like to thank our advertisers, who continue to provide great services and with out whom, the magazines would not be possible.
I wish each and every one of you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Peaceful New Year! We’ll be back through your letterboxes in January. .
Tel: 0800 038 5001 Mob: 07759 536494 In and Around Magazines cover: West Drayton . Iver . Denham . Uxbridge Ickenham . Ruislip Publisher: Angela Fisher Phone: 0800 038 5001 / 07759 536494 Email: info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk Information and Details of Rates at
www.inandaroundpublishing.co.uk 4
Cake & Bake: Panforte Di Siena 6 Property Matters 10 Wordsearch 10 Home & Interiors: Scandinavian Christmas 12 Using Xmas Gift Money to Start a Savings Pot 14 Karen Munro: Careers 18 Designer Life 20 RSPCA Rehoming Appeal 22 History: What happened in December 1966 24 Children’s Puzzle Page 26 Puzzle Solutions 27 Infant Matters 28 Short Story: The Last Present 30 Coffee Break Puzzles 34 Local Events 36 Books: A gift for you at Christmas 38 Beauty: Facial Massage for Beautiful Skin 44 Health: Eyesight Correction 46 Hobbies: Fishing 50 Citizens Advice Bureau 52 Useful Telephone Numbers 52 Let’s Talk Counselling 54 Reader Holidays 56 Travel: The Gambia 58 Puzzle Solutions 58 Used Cars: Japanese Muscle 60 Denham Pets Corner 62 Wildlife Zone 64 Denham Against HS2 66 Garden Feature 68 The Christmas Truce 70 Clubs, Groups & Classes 72, 74 & 76 What’s on at the Compass Theatre 77 Recipe: Roast Turkey 78
JAN COPY DEADLINE 15TH DEC 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.
5
Cake and Bake Panforte di Siena
This sweetmeat is a traditional Italian Christmas treat packed with nuts, figs, honey and warming spices. It can be made a couple of weeks before Christmas just wrap well in greaseproof paper and store in an airtight container.
Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • •
150g whole blanched almonds 125g pistachio nuts 175g dried figs, chopped Grated zest of 1 orange 75g plain flour 2 tbsp cocoa powder 2 tsp ground cinnamon � tsp ground cloves 115g caster sugar 175g runny honey Icing sugar, for dusting
TIP
You can vary the fruits and nuts used in this recipe - replace the figs with chopped candied peel, dried apricots or glace pineapple and instead of pistachios try toasted hazelnuts.
Makes 25 squares Ready in 1½ hours, plus cooling 6
1. Preheat the oven to 150°C/130°C fan/gas 2. Grease a deep 18cm square tin and line the base with baking parchment. Toast the almonds under a medium grill until just golden then roughly chop. Mix in a bowl with the pistachios, figs and orange zest. 2. Sift over the flour and cocoa powder and stir well then stir in the cinnamon and ground cloves. Set aside. 3. Put the caster sugar and honey in a heavy-based pan and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved. Bring to the boil then let the syrup bubble gently for about 5 minutes, without stirring the mixture, until it begins to thicken. 4. Remove the pan from the heat and quickly add the nut and flour mixture stirring well with a wooden spoon. Spoon into the prepared tin and smooth the surface using the back of a damp spoon. 5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour then remove the cake from the oven and leave in the tin until completely cold. Remove the cake from the tin, peel off the lining paper and dust thickly with icing sugar. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares to serve.
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Property
Are online estate agents too good to be true? ber of reasons for this. Firstly, even the better es tablished online agencies such as Tepilo receive only a tiny fraction of the traffic enjoyed by Right move and Zoopla so your property will be visible to a lot less people. The average man on the street is generally not very good at taking photos or putting together a compelling sales brochure. Also, many vendors have no idea of what the realistic asking price is for their property and completely overprice An online estate agency shouldn’t be confused with it. Rightmove which is a property portal used by con ventional estate agents. Instead, vendors decide Interestingly, where the vendors are successful what price they want to market their property at, with online agencies there seem to be some com take the photos, write the description and then mon factors. The properties tend to be at the lower upload everything to their chosen website. The key end of the price scale, sub £100k, there are usually advantage is a sizeable cost saving when com several similar properties up for sale in the area pared to the usual fees. and the vendors are very keen, sometimes desper ate to sell. It looks like online estate agencies have The impression I’ve gathered so far is that a high a niche but I foresee a problem: regular estate proportion of properties marketed via these web agents are becoming increasingly regulated and sites fail to sell in a reasonable timeframe; fre now have a voluntary licensing scheme; what pro quently the vendors have to resort to using a con tection can the online agencies offer both vendors ventional agent having wasted a lot of time, effort and buyers? and hundreds of pounds in fees. There are a num I have been watching Sarah Beeny’s latest TV programme, How to Sell Your Home, with interest. The concept is straightforward: each episode Sarah follows the fortunes of two vendors who have opted to sell their house via an online estate agent rather than with a traditional agent. There are lots of these agencies around; she even runs one herself called Tepilo.
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11
Home & Interiors
Scandinavian Christmas
By Katherine Sorrell
Who doesn’t love Scandinavian style? It combines classic with contemporary, pretty with practical. And it’s the perfect look with which to dress up your home for Christmas
In the Scandinavian countries extremes of landscape, from forests and fjords to boiling geysers and the Aurora Borealis, are all around you. In winter, daylight is fleeting, and keeping warm is a vital part of life. No surprise, then, that typical homes feature thick log walls, small, southfacing doors and windows, and thatched or birch-bark roofs. Inside, vividly coloured 12
decorations in bright, rustic folk style provide relief from the long hours of night and the expanses of snow. Carved wooden spoons, bowls, cups and chests, strongly coloured, woven rugs, blankets and cushions, and beautifully painted furniture in ochres, reds and yellows are the timeless tradition. Appealing as it is, there is much more to Scandinavian style than colourful rusticity, however. What we now called ‘Gustavian’ style became popular in the late 18th century, encouraged by the young King Gustav III of Sweden, under whose patronage the grandeur of Versailles and the skilled creations of master furniture-makers like Hepplewhite and Chippendale were interpreted by native craftsmen in a gentler and more restrained way, blending neo-classicism and romantic Rococo into a unique, northern European decorative style. Think symmetry, pale colours (buttermilk and Baltic blue, grey and peppermint), painted floorboards, ribbons and swags, glass chandeliers, gilding, mirrors and
delicate wooden furniture with tapering legs and subtly carved details. Another major influence, a century or so later, was Swedish artist Carl Larsson and his wife, Karin. In the 1890s the couple decorated their rural cottage, Lilla Hyttnås, in a unique and innovative way, combining folk and Gustavian styles with contemporary European influences: Arts & Crafts, Art Nouveau and Japonisme. Light and airy, pretty and functional, the look was all gingham and geraniums, bread crocks and baskets, rag rugs and sprigged china. When Carl’s watercolours of the house were published, the public response, in Sweden and further afield, was overwhelming; his books, in the early 20th century, did a great deal to popularise what we now see as the typically Scandinavian style of easygoing Gustavian, folk arts and an open-plan love of light and space. And what he started, a certain Swedish flat-pack furniture giant continued. Ikea opened its first UK store in 1987 and then – who can forget? – in 1994 launched its Gustavian-style furniture range, accompanied by an advertising campaign that urged us all to ‘chuck out your chintz’. It sold like hot glogg, and the rest is history – now we all crave the clean-lined, bright and uncluttered look, styled with pretty colours and dashes of folk art.
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Finance
Using Christmas Money Gifts to Start a Savings Pot
money gifts this Christmas?
Would you rather give and receive money at Christmas, or do you prefer traditional gifts? People give money as a gift for various reasons. Maybe they’re not sure of the recipient’s taste, or particularly in the case of teenagers, think they might prefer to spend the money on something of their own choosing. Christmas is an ideal opportunity to start a small savings pot for a friend or family member, using money that they might otherwise spend frivolously, or on everyday expenses such as food and petrol. It shows thought and consideration and has the potential to grow over the years. It could provide funds towards a summer holiday, a new car, or something long-term. Using the same reasoning it’s in your own best interests to save the Christmas money gifts you receive, rather than put them to one side to be swallowed up by everyday needs. So what are the best options for starting a savings pot for a loved one, or saving your 14
Tax-free savings are the obvious choice The old cash ISAs have now been replaced by NISAs (new ISA), and anyone over the age of 16 can deposit a maximum of £15,000 each year. This is a significant increase on the old cash limit of £5,600 although the interest rates may be lower, but this type of savings account is still the best option for easy access. The Junior ISA is available to under-18s but can only be opened by parents or legal guardians, so if you’re giving money to a member of your extended family or a friend’s child, you’ll need to physically give them the money to pay in. Each year from 6th April, you can open a new NISA with the same limit, so this is a great way to save long-term too. For those looking for an investment rather than cash savings, Stocks and Shares NISAs are also available. Regular savings accounts As the name suggests, you’ll need to drip-feed these accounts on a monthly basis. Regular savers generally offer a much better interest rate than standard savings accounts, but tax may be payable on the interest depending on your circumstances.
By Ann Haldon
Interest rates of around 6% are not unheard of, and some accounts may even beat the NISA for interest. Banks often offer regular savings accounts as a promotional tool, however, in the hope that you will take up some of their other products once you’re a customer. Saving ad-hoc Not everyone is able to save on a regular basis, but a separate place to put spare cash as and when you get it is very useful. Standard savings accounts usually run alongside current accounts, making it easy to either pay in money directly or transfer it from the current account. The Mason jar savings method Often started on the 1st January each year, this involves saving £1 the first week, £2 in week two, and so on throughout the year. Although there’ll be no interest, it’s surprising how motivating it can be to literally see your money grow, and you’re still saving for a purpose rather than frittering it away. So if you are offering money gifts for Christmas this year, it’s worthwhile giving a little more thought to how they are offered. On the other side of the coin, receiving money for Christmas could provide you with the start of a useful nest-egg. https://www.gov.uk/juniorindividual-savings-accounts/ opening-an-account http://www.moneysavingexpert. com/savings/junior-isa http://frugalbeautiful.com/blog/ mason-jar-money-method-start1-save-1300-year/
Take 1 (7-10 yrs) 10.00am - 11.30am - £170 per term Take 2 (11-14 yrs) 11.30am - 1.30pm - £225 per term Take 3 (15 - 17 yrs) 1.30pm - 3.30pm - £225 per term
10/01/15
15
Christmas The First Day of
Denham Village Green, 6pm Friday 12th December
Picture by Georgia Voisey, Denham, age 10
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Karen Munro Careers (Dec14)_Layout 1 25/11/2014 19:53 Page 1
Karen Munro - Career Coach www.munrocareers.co.uk #@munrocareers www.facebook.com/munrocareers Karen is a professional Career Coach providing individual support in all aspects of employment including effective CV writing, interview skills training, networking and successful job searching.
A member of the Career Development Institute and registered with the Careers Professional Alliance, a qualified Careers Practitioner and Trainer, she works with both private and business clients around Hillingdon, South Bucks and Middlesex. Karen is currently facilitating workshops and offering individual coaching to Military Personnel leaving the Armed Forces at RAF Northolt, helping them through their transition in to civilian employment. Karen writes for a number of careers focused and military resettlement magazines and regularly contributes to ‘In and Around’ sharing her practical experience with her local community. WELL, I know many of you will be like me and will not be ready for Christmas yet. Nevertheless I would like to wish all my readers and followers a very Merry Christmas! Personally, I can’t believe it’s that time of year again and I seem to say it every year. Where did the year go?
“December, is your time to prepare”! It’s time to update your C.V. How can you improve it and make it stand out? Do you need to get some help to make your C.V to make it better? It’s time to start gathering lots of examples regarding your skills and experience so you can write strong ‘achievement statements’ to include in your C.V as well as to discuss at interview. It’s time to start:
For many of us this is a very expensive and stressful time of year. Everywhere you look there is the constant message to spend money and lavish loved ones and friends with gifts they may not use or want. If you are out of work, or worried about your job security, then looking for a new job during the lead up to and over the Christmas period is almost impossible! Most organisations do very little recruiting at this time of year. It’s a time for winding down, Christmas staff parties and finishing off all those things around the office that no one ever gets time to do. But don’t worry. Because January is just around the corner and it’s notoriously a much busier time of year for recruiting. People tend to make a start on their New Year’s resolutions – “give up smoking, lose weight, get fit, book a holiday and get a better job”! So everything starts moving again in January. 18
• thinking about your career direction • recognising what do you really want to do • planning how you can go about it • putting together a robust Action Plan to map out your New Year and your new job. • researching organisations. Where do you think you’d like to work? • talking to your contacts – and what better time to do that than at Christmas; over some mulled wine and mince pies! • Don’t forget up to 85% of the job market is ‘hidden’. It’s not advertised but filled through word of mouth, friends of friends, networking meetings and speculative enquiries.
“Start networking”! By the time January comes around, you will have done all the ground work and you will be ready to put you plans in to action. Be ahead of the game! Once again, I hope you all have a stress free, healthy and happy Christmas. See you again in the New Year.
Karen
“unlocking your career potential”
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Designer Life (Dec14)_Layout 1 25/11/2014 20:08 Page 1
A Recipe for Joy... YOU WILL NEED... • 500 grams of love • 250 grams of kindness/gentleness • 250 grams of gratitude • 100 grams of generosity/goodness
www.designerlife.co.uk
• 100 grams of patience/peace
neelam@designerlife.co.uk
• 1 teaspoon of sugar/humility • Mustard seed of faith
Neelam Challoner is one of UK’s leading Life coaches, specialising in Re-designing women’s lives and is the founder and owner of Designer life Coaching and the Author of ‘Successful but Incomplete’. Neelam has coached hundreds of people nationally and internationally since 2004. With over 15 years experience in leadership, she has a flair for getting the best out of people. Her clients range from professionals, high net worth individuals, and solo business owners, to unemployed, single parents and women who have suffered domestic abuse. She has empowered and coached both privately and in the public sector pan London and in the Hillingdon Borough and is relentless on her mission to inspire and motivate people to release their potential and live a ‘Designer life’.
• Pinch of salt • Sprinkle of laughter METHOD... Take the 500 grams of love and begin working that in, be patient this may take a while. When you think it’s ready, add in the other ingredients one by one (save the sprinkle of laughter till the end), allowing each ingredient to mould into love so they fuse. Once you have worked on each one and are happy with the consistency pop in the oven at 2000C for 34-36 minutes. I suggest the consistency to be soft and mouldable, no hard bits. When ready, check that it’s moist and has a lovely golden glow. Do not let the recipe become hard in the heat of the oven so keep an expectant eye on it. You will notice the aroma fill your home and anyone who walks in will immediately feel much better and may want the recipe. SO WHAT DID YOU CREATE IN THE END? Joy comes from within, and no matter what happens in our life we can still have joy and spread it to others. It is made up of love, peace, kindness and all the good and noble things, some of which are listed in this recipe. I believe the oven represents our hard times, and often we come out of them with a hardened heart or a bitter attitude. Don’t let that happen. The oven is necessary for us to become the finished piece which allows the ingredients to blend and cook together, you will note that each ingredient alone does not quite taste as amazing until all of them are put together and baked. The oven is also vital in allowing our inner potential and joy to bubble over, remember the time in the oven is only short. Once you have taken it out of the oven let it cool down and sprinkle it with laughter, if you like, top with sparkle or glitter.
Wishing you and your family a Joyous Christmas!
20
Neelam
21
SPECIAL APPEAL Shadow
Mara
The RSPCA Hillingdon, Windsor, Kingston District Branch are asking just 1 question Why are all the black cats left behind?? It's a problem shared all over the world. And yet black cats have as much to offer as any other cat. Through no fault of their own, they are overlooked, as most people tend to choose 'prettier' coloured cats. Even black kittens are the last to be adopted, while their more colourful siblings are chosen first. And so, black cats spend longer in homing centres, waiting for someone to see past their colour.... SHADOW is a female at only 18 months old. Shadow has had far too much experience of being homeless and deserves more from life. Dumped on our doorstep by people who had previously taken her in off the streets, only to find she was not wel comed by the other resident cat, she found herself abandoned again. She is a very sweet and gentle little lady who loves lots of fuss and cuddles and just wants a loving home where she can settle for life. Can you make our Shadow feel loved and wanted again? MARA a female again at such a young age of 7 months old. Mara's try to pretend to be grownup but she is still really just a very outgoing and playful kitten who loves a mad hour to charge around having fun. But when the excitement is over, Mara loves nothing more than to settle down with a cud dle and lots of fuss. She can quite happily amuse herself and would prefer to be the sole centre of attention, but wouldn't mind the company of an other playful cat. Mara would really like to find a home with someone who is experienced with cats and would understand her quirky ways. Please do you have a little space in your heart and on your sofa for Mara? If you think you can offer any of our beautiful black cats a loving home then please ring RSPCA Hilling don Branch on 01895 833417 or visit our website www.rspcahillingdonclinic.org.uk to download an application form 22
23
Reader Travel What happened in... In and Around
Warner Mamma Mia & Super 70s Carry on New Year Party 1966 ...December ? Bembridge From £279 3 nights, Friday 9January, 2015 IsleDofCousins Wight By Patrick FREE DRINKS *FREE UPGRADE SAVE 60 Mamma Mia the Movie PP ●
For billions of children worldwide, from the Twenties until…well, for happy ever after, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a special Quote BE1-IA piece of magic from Walt Disney. Born in December Our private party extends the New 1901, this entrepreneur, Year festivities and takes us on a trip business magnate, cartoonist, down memory lane at our favourite animator, voice actor (a Warner hotel. Enjoy a gala New Year's big thank you from Mickey Eve party with countdown to midnight Mouse), producer, director and and great entertainment. screenwriter spent most of his life not just fulfilling his own dreams but creating dreams for countless generations to come.
frozen pending a cure for the of Friday evenings since to Midnight disease. Well, who wouldn’t August 1963 6pm and the viewing every night want to believe that Walt figures peaked on 20 March £ Disney is in suspended 1964, when the Beatles were animation? interviewed, before performing PER COUPLE their then current hit Can’t Buy Upgrade from chalet 1st: Following the declaration to hotel room Me Love, as well as It Won’t of independence from Britain, included while Bestocks Long and You Can’t AbbaDo Rhodesia’s Prime Minister, last - call to book That. Ian Smith, and Harold Wilson held talks aboard HMS Tiger,
The first
Rock Stewart & Ultimate Elton tributes
INCLUDED: Free Bar from 6pm to midnight every in the with screening of night forMediterranean, house beers & spirits, wineno by the glass, positivesoft outcome. The Good, pumped drinks & mixers the Bad and ● Entertainment 8th: The USA and the USSR the Ugly, ● 3 dinners 3 breakfasts signed a &treaty prohibiting ● 3 nights weapons en-suite hotel starring Clint nuclear inaccommodation outer ● Coach travel and excursions Eastwood,
space.
Over 40s only
took place in 21st: Russia launched Luna Italy. American 13, which made a soft landing audiences wouldWarner on the moon three days later have to wait another twelve Corton (Is another atmosphere, eg months to see it and it didn’t From £ PP ● 3 nights, Friday 6 February, 2015 Suffolk Coast Part-way through producing the moon’s, technically ‘outer premiere in London until ’68. The Jungle Book, on space’? I just wondered). This film wasFREE memorable as DRINKS December 15 1966, Walt 23rd: The final episode 6pm to Midnight music PPmuch for its evocative Disney died of lung cancer. of Ready Steady Go! was DEPOSITas anything else.every night According to rumour his broadcast. This programme 24th: I bought my first threebody was cryogenically The had been a regular feature piece suit, off-the-peg from Fortunes Burton, for £14.10/-. It was Petrol was about 5/- 3d a gallon a bit short in the arms but as Union Gap long as I kept my hands in the The average price of a house was about £3,840 pockets it didn’t show.
Swinging Sixties Fab Feb Party 259 £10
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31st: I went swimming in the
Three of the & Friends every Great Entertainment, Freebestselling Drinks, good INCLUDED: Free Bar from 6pm to midnightThames at midnight. Well, it evening for house beers & spirits, wine by the glass, like a good singles this year were: seemed idea at tribute food and a super location by the sea pumped soft drinks & mixers the time. Fortunately I was ● Entertainment Green Green Grass OfWarner’s Home, near Lowestoft in Suffolk make rescued by a passing police ● 3 dinners & 3 breakfasts Tom Jones Corton Coastal Holiday Village a great launch and spent the first few ● 3 nights en-suite chalet - upgrades available What Would I Be, Val Doonican ● Coach travel and excursions party venue. hours of 1967 in A&E. My
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A very merry Christmas to both of my readers; and please buy my books from Amazon: Rainbows, Dreams and Angels is a double novella and Short Shorts is a ABTA No. Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays. GN Holidays & Voyages collection of short stories humorous Y0291 gnholidays.comarticles. • Email: info@gnholidays.com Higher Denham, Uxbridge UB9 5ELand www.
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Friday 13 March, 2015 - Quote US3-IA INCLUDED: 3 free drinks per person per night - house spirits, wine by the glass, house beer, pumped soft drinks & mixers • Entertainment with The Swinging Blue Jeans, The Tremeloes plus Buddy Holly and Beatles tribute acts • 3 dinners & 3 breakfasts • 3 nights standard en-suite chalet – upgrade available • Return coach travel
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also have a variety of kids meals, perfect lunch with a glass of wine at the White dinners and 4 breakfasts • Visits to for the whole family in a friendly warm Village Horse Hotel, Hertingfordbury • Return We can also cater for large travelCafé atmosphere. PP Arundel and Brighton • Coach 5 High Street orders, parties and special occasions. and excursions coach travel Harefield All our meals are freshly cooked to order using the freshest and finest ingredients.
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Infant Matters FP (Dec14)_Layout 1 25/11/2014 20:34 Page 1
"I am delighted to be writing this column for ‘In and Around Denham’. My name is Nick Andrews and I am headteacher at the village school. This is my first headship. I entered teaching as a second career in my mid-forties and have taught in three different schools – first as a drama specialist, senior teacher and then deputy head. I am married with two grown up children."
Volunteers are priceless at Denham Village Infant School VOLUNTEERING is increasingly in the news; it is as if we are rediscovering an old national habit and, as we often do, we are giving a new name to an established tradition. We experience it in our school and it is a wonder to behold at times. Our team of volunteers vastly enrich the experience of the children and bring an extra dimension to the curriculum. The children are exposed to a wider range of life experiences and knowledge and to people who bring their energy and commitment to the school because they choose to do so in their own time without financial reward. Maybe this is what makes volunteering so inspiring to experience. For me, the awareness of this began with the Olympic opening ceremony in the summer of 2012. The commitment of the volunteers inspired the nation and Danny Boyle, the genius who designed it, spoke movingly afterwards. “Those volunteers redefined the nation for me,” he said. “We’re told people need to be paid great sums to get results, but those who are motivated by money alone – tend to get it wrong. People who are motivated by things like love, family, friendship and humanity are the ones who have something to offer.” How true this has turned out to be – anyone who has a pension has lost out to the contrary idea that motivation and performance can only be ensured by obscene bonus payments. Our volunteers inspire the adults because their very presence validates our work. The message they give us is that we are worth joining for an afternoon or a day and the growth and development of our school is something exciting and worthwhile that they want to be a part of. I volunteered my services to a school in Zambia this summer and what I found really empowering was to realise that I was there out of choice, not out of necessity. So, we will continue to develop our volunteer programme that brings together committed professionals with these wonderful people who choose to be with us and who receive a heartfelt ‘thank you’ each day. If you would like to find out more about the volunteer programme or are interested in joining please email Headteacher Nick Andrews on head@denhamvillage.bucks.sch.uk
Nick Andrews | Headteacher | Denham Village Infants School Mobile 07583 550676 | www.denhamvillageinfant.co.uk
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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 29
Short Story
The Last Present
“I’ll lock up while you get the first round in”, Trevor told Barry, scratching his beard.
The boy’s bottom lip began to wobble.
“Aren’t we changing out of our work clothes?” Barry said.
“But I wanted to see Santa”. The boy whimpered. Just what I need, thought Trevor, a blubberer on Christmas Eve.
“Not tonight”. This was his Christmas Eve ritual, the pub regulars expected it. Once Santa and his elf arrived at the bar everyone knew Christmas had finally arrived. Trevor had been the Santa at the precinct grotto for years. The kids he’d once bounced on his knee now brought their own kids to tell Santa what a good little boy or girl they’d been. “Busy year”, Trevor said, “there’s only one present left, we were cutting that a bit fine”. “What’ll happen to it?” Barry asked. He was new to the elf game, slightly scatterbrained, but good with crowd management Trevor thought. “It’ll go in storage until next year”. The grotto was no more than a shed decorated with tinsel, but for the last ten days over-excited kids had been queuing out the door. “Off you trot now, mine’s a pint”, Trevor said switching off the lights. Left to himself, Trevor locked the door and dropped the key in his coat pocket. A job well done he thought. As he turned to go he felt something pulling on coat. “Excuse me Santa is the grotto still open?” a young lad said. He was just a scrap of a thing, Trevor nearly tripped over him. “Sorry lad, we’ve shut up shop”. 30
“Well, you’re seeing me now aren’t you?”. Trevor said and ruffled the boy’s hair. “And get a present”, the boy added. “Well you should’ve come earlier”, Trevor said gruffly. It was more than his job’s worth to let the lad into the grotto without his elf present; health and safety and all that. “I did, but your elf said I had to pay and I didn’t have any money”, the boy said rubbing his eyes. Trevor softened. Poor kid. “Listen lad, don’t cry”. He crouched down, “tell me, have you been a good boy this year?” The boy nodded uncertainly. Trevor chuckled. He put his hand in his pocket and pulled out all his loose change. “Here, find yourself something nice with this”. The boy held out his hand and grinned, “Thanks Santa”. Trevor stood up slowly, his old knees ached. “Happy Christmas”. He waved, and headed towards the pub. There was a cheer from the regulars as he walked in. Barry was standing at the crowded
bar looking sheepish. “Where’s my pint?” Trevor said. “I left my wallet at the grotto”, Barry said. “There’s no pockets in these tights”. “We’d better nip back for it”, Trevor sighed, “I’ve got the key here”. He dug his hand into his pocket, and knew straight away what he’d done. The pocket was empty. “I’ve dropped a real clanger”. He groaned and bundled Barry out of the pub. The boss would have his guts for garters for this. “Oh no!” Barry gasped as they reached the grotto. Trevor was afraid to look. “You’ve left the key in the door”. Barry panted. “Did I?” Trevor could breathe again, “Must have been distracted by that kid.” He scanned inside the shed as Barry retrieved his wallet from behind the inflatable Rudolph. “No harm done”. He smiled, putting the key safely back in his pocket. He was ready for that pint. It was lucky, he thought, that his elf hadn’t noticed the pile of small change where the last present used to be. By Jackie Brewster
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Local Dated Events (Dec14)_Layout 1 26/11/2014 10:24 Page 1
Local & Festive Events
December 2014 into January 2015
DECEMBER EVENTS Festive Events at Smith’s Nurseries 95 Oxford Road, New Denham, UB9 4DE Thu 4th December, 5.30pm-8.30pm Christmas Shopping Evening 15% off your shopping - save on your Christmas decorations, lights and gifts. 4th-14th December Visit our Christmas Street A mini street of seasonal delights all displayed in beautiful festive cabins! For more details call 01895 233 844, visit us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter Stardust Big Band Christmas Concert Sat 6th December, 5.30pm-7.30pm The Great Barn, Manor Farm Site, Ruislip HA4 7SU. Guest singer Rebecca Lodge from BBx singers. In aid of the Mayor’s chosen charity Michael Sobell Hospice. Call Manor Farm Library for more details 01895 558234 the great barn is unheated so wrap up warm! Hillingdon Fostering & Adoption events 9th December, 6:30-8:30pm, 18th December, 10am-12noon, 13th January 2015, 6.30-8.30pm. Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW. Interested in learning more about fostering and adoption? Attend one of our free events. To book a place contact 0800 783 1298 or email: fost-adopt@hillingdon.gov.uk for more info visit:www.hillingdon.gov.uk/article/ 24056/Events Christmas Tree Festival St Peter’s Church, Thorney Lane North, Iver SL0 9JU. Come and see the trees on display throughout the weekend Fri 12th December 10am-6pm Sat 13th December 11am-9pm Sun 14th December 12noon-2.30pm Join in the informal carol singing around the trees on Sat 13th at 7pm Come and worship with us surrounded by the trees on Sun 14th - Holy Communion at 9.15am or Family Praise at 11am Entry is free, refreshments at a small charge. Ickenham Festive Community Night Fri 12th December, 6pm-9pm Around Swakeleys Road, Ickenham Village Hall, Gelbe Avenue and Community Close, Ickenham, UB10 8DG. For a great night out featuring a wide range of music, games festive sales plus special
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attractions with many local shops opening late, hospitality and fun plus Christmas themed lights in and around the village. Further information on how you can get involved is on the Ickenham Festival website at www.IckenhamFestival.org.uk. Follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/IckFest or call or text on 07516 984514. Christmas Fayre Sat 13th December, 12-3pm Denham Village Infant School, Cheapside Lane, UB9 5AE. All welcome! Come and see Father Christmas. Grand Raffle /Auction, Craft Room. Enjoy a cuppa and a slice of cake, plus much more. Hillingdon Choral Society present ‘Christmas is coming...’ Sat 13th December, 7.30pm St. Paul’s Church, Thurlstone Road, Ruilsip Manor, Middlesex HA4 0BP Conductor: Peter J Williams Organist: Rufus Frowde Solists: Celia Gould & Lynne Hirst Carols old and new, audience participation and Vivaldi’s ‘Magnificat’. Tickets on the door or from Pro Music shop, Ickenham. £12 adults/£3 children. For details call 07941 601966 or visit www.hillingdonchoralsociety.org.uk The Uxbridge Choral Society performing Martin How's ‘Advent Cantata’ Sat 13th December, 7.30pm St. Margaret's Church, Windsor Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1AB. Conductor: Jeff Stewart. Tickets: £12 adults, £6 for under 12s, available on the door on the night or by calling 01895 847083 in advance. ‘Light up a Life’ Ceremonies Sun 14th December, 3.30pm and 5.30pm Michael Sobell Hospice Lecture Hall, Gate 3, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, HA6 2RN. A special event when people come together to celebrate, reflect and remember loved ones who are no longer with us – whether
DON'T MISS THE DEADLINE! If you would like us to publicise your event in our January issues contact us no later than Friday 12th December.
they received hospice care or not. There will be two ceremonies with performances from the Lemon Tuesday choir. Refreshments will be served. Free entry and parking. Pre-booking is essential call 01923 844730 to reserve a place. HUBB Business Breakfast Event Thu 8th January, 8am-9am Bay Lodge, 36 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1PH. Networking with local professionals and in partnership with the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce. ‘The New Pension Landscape’. From April 2015 there will be massive changes to pension legislation, find out how it can improve your retirement. Coffee & pastries. For details email: emma.zovich@wardwilliams.co.uk
LIVE MUSIC EVENTS The Swan at Iver 2 High Street, Iver, SL0 9NG Fri 5th Dec Stealworks return, 9.30pm Other music nights will be available during the festive period, see www.swaniver.co.uk The 3 Steps High Street, Cowley, Uxbridge, UB8 2DX Sat 6th Dec Ska Night with ‘The Skammers’ from 9pm til late Sat 13th Dec ‘The Stiles’ from 9pm til late Sat 20th Dec Live music from the ‘Fantastic Elastic Band’ from 9pm til late Sat 27th Dec Live music from ‘J45S’ from 9pm til late Wed 31st Dec Celebrate NYE with us from 8pm to late. Live music from ‘Two Shades’ with a spectacular Firework Display and Prize Raffle. Entrance by ticket only £5, price includes one free drink per customer The Falcon Village Road, Denham, UB9 5BE Fri 19th Dec Live music with John & Leigh an evening of Rock, Pop, Soul & Swing. The WatersEdge Packet Boat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS Sun 21st Dec Live music from Natalie, Vinnie and friends! A great way to get in the festive spirit! All starts at 8pm. Uxbridge Folk Club Uxbridge RNA, 388a Long Lane, Hillingdon UB10 9PG (2 mins from Hillingdon tube) Thu 11th Dec Folk, Blues and slide guitar with Garry Smith gsgarrymsmith.wix.com/ theslideguy
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A Gift for You at Christmas
We’ve got Christmas all wrapped up this year, with a set of books designed to have every aspect of the holiday covered. If all else fails though, there’s always the option of packing it all in and doing a runner…and we’ve thought of that as well.
The Tree: ‘The Giving Tree’ by Shel Silverstein What better kind of spruce this festive season than ‘The Giving Tree’. Loved by children and adults alike, this is a story about a little boy who grows up under the branches of a tree, and continues to take and take throughout his years into adulthood. If you don’t cry when you read this then quite frankly, you must have a heart of stone. It’s such a simple and touching story about our capacity to love and it’s perfect for some fireside snuggling up with whoever you have staying with you this Christmas. The Gift: ‘The Gift’ by Cecelia Ahern If you ever thought there weren’t enough hours in the day then meet Lou Suffern, a man who constantly needs to be two places at once and who is struggling to keep up. He finds it impossible to really ‘be’ in the present, whether it’s at work or at home with his family. One day he meets a homeless man called Gabe and, taking pity on him, sorts him out with a job in the post room. But there’s something not quite right about Gabe. He always appears to be in more than one place at once. It’s a bit ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ for modern times, and goes to prove that as we suspected,
time really could be the greatest gift of all. The Food: ‘Great British Bake Off: Christmas’ by Lizzie Kamenetzky ‘Stuff your face with plates of blinis, fah-lah-lah-lah lah’ or however it goes! Christmas simply can’t go wrong with Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry helping you along your merry way. There are master class recipes as well as contributions from all four previous winners and other memorable contestants. It’s packed with plenty of inspiration without causing you too much perspiration whilst slaving over a hot stove. It could be a present to yourself…or whoever you’ve talked into doing the cooking. The Weather: ‘Let it Snow’ by John Green, Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle Here are three touching and romantic stories that all stem from one incident, as a young girl decides to ditch the stranded train she was travelling on and heads out into the blizzard. The tales then take place over the following few days as the residents of Gracetown struggle to cope with the Christmas Eve storm. Written by some of today’s best-selling authors they are
like three perfectly wrapped little stocking fillers. The Family: ‘A Proper Family Christmas’ by Chrissie Manby Whenever someone tells you this is what they want, they mean the nostalgic Christmas card, cookie cutter image. They don’t mean the arguments, tears and recriminations that usually go hand in hand with the festive season. This is the story of two clashing families, brought together by the need to help the Buchanan’s seriously ill daughter, Izzy. The matriarch, Annabel, was adopted and so needs to find her own biological parents to see if Izzy can be saved. It sounds like a tearjerker but it’s a warm and fuzzy one for Christmas. The Escape Plan: ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ by Elizabeth Gilbert If all else fails and you really can’t stand your in-laws, or even your husband for any amount of time past Boxing Day, then why not just escape from it all? At 3am, Elizabeth’s seemingly perfect life is keeping her up and making her depressed. So, she ups sticks and heads off in pursuit of happiness. Her travels take her to Italy, India and then on to Bali, finding food for her soul and her belly along the way. It’s the perfect antidote to all that forced happiness and fun.
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JOIN TODAY AND SAY YES TO
SAVINGS!
Costco Wholesale is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members quality goods and services at the lowest possible prices.
We provide a wide selection of merchandise, plus the convenience of speciality departments and exclusive member services, all designed to make your shopping experience a pleasurable one. We are confident in the quality and value of our products, and we stand behind them with our guarantee of satisfaction.
Join in the warehouse or online: www.costco.co.uk/membership The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership is £20 (plus VAT). Executive Trade Membership is an additional £30 (plus VAT) upgrade fee a year. Each membership includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. The annual membership fee for Standard Individual Membership is £25 (plus VAT). Executive Individual Membership is an additional £30 (plus VAT) upgrade fee a year. Each membership includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. Membership Criteria applies. Membership must be obtained before purchases can be made. Costco accepts cash, debit card, cheque or American Express
Seasonal gifts now in!
Costco Hayes Western International Park, Hayes Road Hayes London UB2 5XX
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Food Court | Fresh Bakery | Groceries | Gifts | Electronics | Fine Jewellery | Designer Apparel | Opticians | Fine Wines | Butchers and more!
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Smith's FP Editorial (Dec14)_Layout 1 25/11/2014 15:08 Page 1
Not just a Garden Centre...
There are not many independent businesses that have endured over the years and flourished like Smith’s Nurseries Garden Centre, in New Denham.
Bertram Thomas Smith, started growing at Smith’s in 1931, it all began with two small greenhouses, an old coal boiler to keep the plants warm at night and ten acres of land, laid out to wallflowers and roses. With perseverance, hard work and a love of all things plants, this was the start of a successful business, which is still going strong over eight decades later! Currently in the capable hands of Bertram’s Grandson, Norman Smith and with the help of his fantastic team, ‘Smith’s’ is a delight! They’ve come a long way since the early days and now have a fantastic Garden Centre, which really does have it all.
In 1931, it was jus t two greenhous es, some roses and wallflowers...
So what does make Smith’s stand out from the rest? Quite simply, they listen to their customers and deliver on their promises. “We are very proud of the success we have achieved through our dedication to our customers and our product choices,” as Norman Smith put it. “We have an outstanding team of friendly and knowledgeable staff who are always ready to answer questions and we are lucky to have many loyal and regular customers.” With exceptional quality plants and shrubs, seeds, bulbs, a fantastic array of stone wear, paving and water features, plus superb garden furniture and barbecues, there is everything you would expect from a Garden Centre and more!
not ritage is . n 4 this he ... In 201 rather built upo n, forgotte
Smith’s gives you much more in fact, as there is a great selection of pet care products and the most wonderful range of home wares we have seen. From beautiful table wear, children’s gifts, candles and cushions to cookware and silk flowers. There’s also a selection of china and glass wear, that would rival any department store, plus Bertram’s Café, the ideal place for a light bite or coffee after a great morning’s shop and all with free parking!
Christmas is all wrapped up at Smith’s! So for all your gift ideas this Christmas, the only place you really need to go is Smith’s! Plus this year, on selected days you could bring the children to see Santa in his Grotto and take a trip along Christmas Street, a mini street full of Christmas delights, with activities for kids too! See in store for details. With their huge Christmas shop open now amid a dazzling array of decorations and their top quality real Christmas trees, you may have Christmas covered quicker than you think! Don’t forget to check out the Smith’s website too, for advice and special offers throughout the year at www.smiths-nurseries.co.uk or find them on Facebook or twitter.
Smith’s Nurseries, 95 Oxford Road, New Denham, UB9 4DE (near Uxbridge) 42
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Smiths_Christmas Ad_A5_1114.indd 1
18/11/2014 14:470018
Facial Massage - For Beautiful Skin
Beauty
by Helen Taylor
salon, or you want to keep up the good work between visits, follow our guide to performing an effective massage yourself at home.
Image: Courtesy of Clinique
Most people appreciate the benefits of a neck and shoulder massage to ease tension. But life’s everyday stresses can also build-up in the facial muscles, ultimately resulting in a lined and furrowed brow. A facial massage is a great way to refresh your skin, smooth-out wrinkles and relax. Not only will the ‘down-time’ during the treatment be an instant pick-meup, but it’s a useful tool in the fight against ageing. By relaxing the muscles, your face will appear softened and stresses will be released. The massage will also help to drain fluid build-up from around the eyes, increase blood circulation and make the creams you apply afterwards even more effective because they’ll be more easily absorbed into the skin. The salon is the most effective treatment, particularly because you will be very relaxed. But if you don’t have time to get to the 44
1. After thoroughly cleansing your face, take a moisturiser, face oil or serum and use your knuckles to gently - but firmly - massage the product all over your face, ensuring that you work from the centre outwards to your ears. Do the same for your neck.
2. Next, de-clog your pores by moving your fingertips over the same area - working from the middle of your face outwards and upwards, towards the lympnodes, situated behind under the earlobes - to promote drainage. 3. Use the flat and heel of your thumb and the side of your bent index finger in a pinching flick movement along your jaw line, starting from your chin, then moving to each ear. 4. Move your fingertips in small circular motions all over your face, again starting at the centre and moving outwards and. Do small sections at a time, working from your chin to ear, lip to ear, nose to temple, centre of forehead to hairline. 5. Using your fingertips tap gently around the eye area, apply an eye cream if you wish. Start at the outer
corner and move to the inner, taking care not to be too heavy-handed. Massage around the eye contours to help brighten the eye area, working around the eyes in a circular motion using a light pressure from your fingertips. This will help to reduce puffiness from the eye and drain fluid build-up.
6. Next, tap all over your face using the same action, working again from the centre and moving outwards. 7. Ease tension in your face by stroking upwards from your brow, this will serve to smooth and lift the skin. Do the same for your neck - taking care to move only in an upwards direction. 8. Find the pressure points on your face: Pressure on the third eye - located right between your eyebrows - stimulates the pituitary gland - this helps to enhance the all over condition of your skin. Press on this area for 60 seconds. Located 1cm below the eye socket - right below the iris - the next pressure point will help to reduce blemishes. Press on this point under both eyes for 60 seconds. 9. End your facial massage by pinching your earlobes between your thumb and forefinger. Once you’ve finished your skin should have a pinky flush and a healthy radiant glow and you should feel totally relaxed.
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Eyesight Correction – Making your Options Clear
Eyesight correction has progressed dramatically since the first pair of glasses appeared in 13th century Italy. These days, there’s a range of options to correct poor eyesight, whether you have myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia/hypermetropia (longsightedness) or presbyopia (diminished close vision, which often affects the over 45s). Glasses Today, most lenses are made from durable, scratch resistant and lightweight plastics. Special techniques can make lenses lighter and thinner (ideal for high prescription glasses) while coatings can provide tints, ultraviolet protection, scratchresistance and anti-reflective properties to reduce glare and haloes. Bifocals, trifocals and varifocal lenses mean that one pair of glasses can be used for close reading as well as distance vision while photochromic lenses darken under ultraviolet rays, instantly turning normal prescription glasses into sunglasses. Pros: A range of options; usually correct eyesight very efficiently. Cons: Lack of peripheral vision; can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, particularly during bad weather, sport activities and moving between different temperatures. Contact Lenses Contact lenses may be more convenient than glasses and 46
both rigid and soft versions allow oxygen on to the eye. This keeps the eye healthy and allows them to be worn for extended periods. Toric lenses to correct astigmatism and bifocal lenses are available too. Soft contact lenses are made from a plastic polymer with high water content. They’re easier to adapt to than rigid lenses. Daily or monthly disposable versions decrease the chance of infection, while non-disposables are cleaned every day and changed yearly. Pros: Comfort; no loss of peripheral vision. Cons: Easily damaged or polluted. Rigid gas permeable contact lenses are made from silicone polymers. Pros: No loss of peripheral vision; better correction of some eyesight problems than soft lenses; durable. Cons: Less comfortable and harder to adapt to than soft lenses; reduced risk of infection (due to lack of water content). Corneal reshaping Sometimes, contact lenses can be used for orthokeratology, a process that reshapes the cornea to improve shortsightedness. Surgery New technologies have increased the popularity and scope of vision correction surgery, which can correct
By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk myopia, astigmatism and hyperopia. While some experts remain cautious about long-term effects, research has shown that results are mostly long-lasting. Complications occur in less than 5% of cases; eye dryness is common but usually short-lived and easily treatable with drops. Severe vision loss is very rare. Some people do need a second procedure for perfect results. If you have diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, keratoconus, cataract, glaucoma or a herpes eye infection you should discuss this with your surgeon, as surgery may not be appropriate. Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding or on certain medications such as oral steroids may not be suitable candidates either. LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis) The most common type of vision correction surgery in the UK. A flap of corneal tissue is lifted using a microkeratome (mechanical blade) or femtosecond (special laser). The exposed section is then reshaped using an excimer laser, and the flap replaced. Pros: Causes minimal pain; heals quickly; fast recovery of vision. Cons: Not always suitable for high prescriptions (the surgery may make the cornea too thin). Wavefront-guided LASIK A more refined version of LASIK
that analyses and tackles the finer irregularities in the eye, so that night vision, for instance, can be improved along with eyesight.
LASEK (laser epithelial keratomileusis) During LASEK the epithelial layer of the cornea is retained as a flap. This technique is believed to minimise complications and aid speedy healing, and can be a good choice for people with thin corneas. A special soft contact lens is kept on the eye for 3-4 days to allow the surface to heal. Pros: Less discomfort than PRK. Retaining the epithelium may help to prevent complications and speed up healing.
Cons: Can only correct low hyperopia prescriptions; effectiveness may gradually reduce over time.
Epi-LASIK An instrument called an epikeratome separates a fine slice of the epithelial (surface) layer of the cornea. The cornea underneath is reshaped with a laser.
PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) Mainly overtaken by LASIK and LASEK, PRK is now normally only used to correct low prescriptions. A layer of epithelial tissue is removed, and then the cornea is reshaped by laser. Pros: Little corneal tissue is removed, so the remaining cornea is strong. Cons: Healing and vision improvement take longer than for LASIK and LASEK and some blurring or glare may occur.
LTK (Laser Thermokeratoplasty) A holmium laser is used apply a circle of small heat spots to reshape the cornea by contraction. Pros: No cutting; the procedure is over in seconds.
to
Vision Training There are many programs, and now even some apps, that claim to correct your eyesight using exercises. But most experts agree that there is no scientific evidence that any of these can correct vision. Before making any decisions, seek advice from your optometrist or eye consultant. By law, your optometrist must give you a written copy of your prescription after an eye test, which can be fulfilled anywhere you choose. Visit http://www. allaboutvision. com/eyeglasses/ eyeglassprescription. htm for help understanding your prescription.
Osteopath
Sports Injuries Back Pain Nagging aches and Pains Within 2 miles of M25, M40 and M4
Sam Winder BSc (Hons) Ost.
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Tel: 01753 677067 www.samwinder.com 47
MMCG FP (Dec14)_Layout 1 25/11/2014 14:23 Page 1
Maria Mallaband Care Group announce launch of new...
Gerrards Cross Care Home
Buckingham House based in Gerrards Cross recently hosted its grand opening, where
founder,
Chairman
and
CEO,
Phil Burgan presented Gerrards Cross Community Association with a cheque for £500. Buckingham House is the latest care home launched by Maria Mallaband Care Group (MMCG) and provides nursing, dementia and residential care for 53 residents. Maria Mallaband Care Group is one of the UK's leading care home providers renowned for offering comfortable, luxurious facilities and outstanding services. Our staff aim to build confidence and promote independence to enable residents to lead a fulfilling life with dignity and respect at all times, ensuring their residents needs come first and foremost. Each bedroom is en-suite and decorated to a hotel standard. The home boasts a number of lounges, 2 dining areas, 2 cafés, library and hair dressing salon, as well as beautifully landscaped gardens and secluded patio area.
If you would like to book a tour of Buckingham House Care Home, or would simply like more information about the home, please call 01753 468200, email: Buckingham.House@mmcg.co.uk, or visit www.mmcgcarehomes.co.uk.
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MMCG FP (Dec14)_Layout 1 25/11/2014 14:23 Page 2
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Hobbies Fishing: the hobby that’s just on the tip of your tongue!
By Kate McLelland “Hook, line and sinker”, “Cold fish”, “something fishy”, “fishing for compliments”: the British language is peppered with colourful expressions that celebrate our traditional love of fishing. Catching fish with a rod and line may have been a matter of survival for our ancestors, but these days it’s simply regarded as an enjoyable hobby or sport. Angling generates a staggering £3.5 billion a year for the economy, employing 37,000 people across the UK. In a recent report the Angling Trust estimated that over the last two years four million people have gone fishing, and numbers are growing all the time. So if you’ve longed to try your hand at angling, here’s a quick guide to get you started:
What is angling? By definition “angling” is any kind of fishing that uses an “angle” or fish-hook. Over time this activity has evolved into three different types: coarse fishing, game fishing and sea fishing. “Game fishing” is limited to catching trout and salmon, while “Sea fishing” applies to any species of fish that lives in the sea. The term “Coarse fishing” is used for catching any freshwater fish apart 50
from salmon or trout.
What’s it like to go fishing? Angling can be a hobby, a competitive sport or the focus of a relaxing holiday (87% of respondents in a recent survey said that their main reason for fishing was for “rest and relaxation”). While some anglers enjoy getting away from it all, others prefer to go fishing with friends, or chat to fellow fishermen. Angling can also be a gateway to learning about, and caring for, the environment. What does it cost? Fishing can be expensive if you allow yourself to get carried away, buying expensive equipment and accessories. However it’s possible to start out on a relatively modest budget and upgrade over time. You can buy a basic coarse fishing kit, with nets, rods and accessories, for about £60. What do I need? You will need a rod and reel, a line, hooks, bobbers, weights, pliers, a landing net, a small tackle box, a scale and tape measure and perhaps a few lures (unless you are going to use live or prepared baits at first).
Do I need permission to go fishing? Over the age of 12 you will need a licence to fish with a rod and line for salmon, trout, freshwater fish, smelt and eel in England (except the River Tweed), in Wales and the Border Esk region of Scotland. You can buy your rod licence at Post Offices: over the phone (telephone 0844 800 5386) or online. Licences can be arranged for short periods of time or for as long as a year. An annual licence currently costs £27 (or £72 if you want to fish for salmon and sea trout). If you are unsure about taking up fishing in the long term, you should probably choose a one day or an eight day licence. However, don’t be tempted to try fishing without a licence: if you are caught, you may face a fine of up to £2,500. When can I fish? The “close season” for fishing is between 15th March and 15th June each year and during that period you are not allowed to fish. The coarse fishing close season applies to all rivers, streams and drains in England and Wales but not most stillwaters (although there are
exceptions). Some clubs and fisheries introduce their own close season rules, so check before you fish.
Where can I fish? There are thousands of rivers, streams, lakes, piers and waterways in urban and rural locations where you can gain some experience. You will find information online at www.rod-and-line. co.uk and www.fish-uk.com or join the Environment Agency’s page on Facebook to discover waterways that have recently been cleared for fishing. If you prefer to wait till the summer you can follow www. nationalfishingmonth.co.uk: a site created to encourage more people to go fishing. Either visit their website or phone (during office hours) on 0333 577 9970.
What do I do once I’ve caught a fish? The anglers’ website www.fishuk.com states that anglers should always return a fish to the water after it has been caught. It recommends laying the fish on an unhooking mat and gently removing the hook (barbless hooks make removal much easier). Fish should be handled as little as possible or they will lose their protective, slimy coating. Never throw one back into the water: instead you should slowly immerse the net and let the fish swim away. Many anglers like to measure their catches, weigh them
or take photographs before putting them back. Anyone who has listened to anglers’ tales about “The one that got away” will know that patience and skill plays a large part in fishing and it may be helpful to learn from an experienced angler when you are starting out: a list of instructors is available at www.fish-uk.com. As an island nation, it’s hardly surprising that fishing has become embedded in our language and our culture. Angling is growing in popularity, so don’t be a fish out of water: it won’t be long before you are well and truly hooked!
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..I fell in love for the first time when I was eight. It was my first heartthumping, tummy churning experience and it was with a hero. I was a Brownie and we were at the Christmas Panto put on by the local Amateur Dramatics Society. It was love at first sight. I have no idea what the story was about but that didn’t really matter, as all I wanted was for the handsome Hero Prince to come back on stage as soon as possible, slap his thigh and look in my direction. It was two of the happiest hours of my young life that I can re call. My earliest fantasy life had begun. Overwhelmed somewhat by the strength of these new emotions I dared to share my feelings with my Grandad. We were getting ready for Christ mas making ginger beer in his tiny kitchen using the family recipe that had been handed down for generations. Mince pies were already in the oven and every surface (not that there were many) was piled high with holly, pine cones and mistletoe that he had brought in from the back garden that morn ing. The mix of thick spicy gingery cinnamon smells and pine with heat from the stove had made me a little lightheaded. He took what I had to tell him very seriously in deed. As a wise old Yorkshireman, Grandad knew that how he reacted to my shared secret might well shape my willingness to communicate for a lifetime. Meanwhile he carried on pouring the pungent, thrilling concoction into the glass bottles and thought for a moment. He knew this wasn’t a time for looking me in the eye and chose his words carefully. “Well lass,” he said, “it’s like this. There’s nowt wrong with what’s ‘appening to yer! Just you en joy it.” I waited for whatever was coming next, pretending not to be really listening but hanging onto every word. He took a deep breath and put out his hand for the stopper I had been clutching in readiness and with his coalstained gnarled hand pushed it firmly into the neck of the bottle. It was as he reached out for me to pass the next bottle that he was ready to speak. “Just remem ber this lass, sometimes you get more fun from a balloon. It don’t last long but it gives you a thrill”. I thought about this, yep, it was true, bouncing a 54
balloon around the room did make me laugh a lot, but it soon popped. He continued, “Other times, you need a good strong ball. One that’ll keeps bouncing back an last a lifetime.“ I knew that he had said something important but I wasn’t sure what he meant. I must have looked at him quizzi cally as he put down the jug and funnel and lifted me up onto his strong miner’s arms. One of those moments of wonderful earthy wisdom that has helped set me up for life. Trick”s this lass. Summat you’ll need t’learn, an that’s when to choose a balloon and when a ball serves you best! It needs a bit of thinkin’ about. Aye, a lot a thinkin’ about.” He popped me back down. C’mon then lass, Christmas is comin’ an’ we’ve a lot a bottles to fill..”
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In and Around Reader Travel
Mamma Mia & Super 70s Carry on New Year Party Warner Bembridge From £279 3 nights, Friday 9 January, 2015 Isle of Wight PP ●
*FREE UPGRADE
SAVE £60 PER COUPLE
Quote BE1-IA Our private party extends the New Year festivities and takes us on a trip down memory lane at our favourite Warner hotel. Enjoy a gala New Year's Eve party with countdown to midnight and great entertainment.
Upgrade from chalet to hotel room included while stocks last - call to book INCLUDED: Free Bar from 6pm to midnight every night for house beers & spirits, wine by the glass, pumped soft drinks & mixers ● Entertainment ● 3 dinners & 3 breakfasts ● 3 nights en-suite hotel accommodation ● Coach travel and excursions
Swinging Sixties Fab Feb Party From £259PP ● 3 nights, Friday 6 February, 2015 £10PP DEPOSIT
FREE DRINKS
6pm to Midnight every night
Mamma Mia the Movie
Abba Rock Stewart & Ultimate Elton tributes Over 40s only Warner
Corton
Suffolk Coast FREE DRINKS 6pm to Midnight every night
The Fortunes Union Gap
Quote CW2-2-IA Great Entertainment, Free Drinks, good food and a super location by the sea near Lowestoft in Suffolk make Warner’s Corton Coastal Holiday Village a great party venue.
INCLUDED: Free Bar from 6pm to midnight every evening for house beers & spirits, wine by the glass, pumped soft drinks & mixers ● Entertainment ● 3 dinners & 3 breakfasts ● 3 nights en-suite chalet - upgrades available ● Coach travel and excursions
Call 01895 83 33 33 Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays. GN Holidays & Voyages www. gnholidays.com • Email: info@gnholidays.com Higher Denham, Uxbridge UB9 5EL
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Frankie Valli & Friends tribute
Over 40s only
ABTA No. Y0291
C
Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough
?
England’s Greatest Snowdrop Garden & Afternoon Tea at Marco Pierre White’s Frogmill Inn GREAT DAY OUT
£79PP
Monday 16 February, 2015 - Quote CS2-IA INCLUDED: • Entry to Colesbourne Park Snowdrops • Afternoon tea, including a glass of Prosecco, at the Frogmill Inn, Andoversford • Return coach travel
10
£ pp DEPOSIT
Thriplow Daffodil Festival & Lunch at a country pub GREAT DAY OUT
£69PP
Saturday 21 March, 2015 - Quote TD3-IA INCLUDED: Visit to Thriplow Daffodil festival • 2-course hot & cold buffet lunch with a glass of wine at the White Horse Hotel, Hertingfordbury • Return coach travel
Spring Back to the 60s Seaside Party at Pontins Pakefield £10pp DEPOSIT Suffolk Coast Friday 13 March, 2015 - Quote US3-IA INCLUDED: 3 free drinks per person per night - house spirits, wine by the glass, house beer, pumped soft drinks & mixers • Entertainment with The Swinging Blue Jeans, The Tremeloes plus Buddy Holly and Beatles tribute acts • 3 dinners & 3 breakfasts • 3 nights standard en-suite chalet – upgrade available • Return coach travel
4 DAYS HALF BOARD +
£179PP The Swinging Blue Jeans The Tremeloes Buddy Holly & Beatles tributes
3 FREE DRINKS per person per night
Over 40s only
Eastboune & South Coast Explorer 5 DAYS HALF BOARD
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Monday 23 March, 2015 - Quote EA3-IA INCLUDED: 4 nights at the Shoreview Hotel on Eastbourne seafront • 4 dinners and 4 breakfasts • Visits to Arundel and Brighton • Coach travel and excursions
10
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10
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Call 01895 83 33 33 GN Holidays & Voyages, Higher Denham, Uxbridge UB9 5EL
Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays. www. gnholidays.com • Email: info@gnholidays.com
ABTA No. Y0291 57
Glancing at the map of Africa, it’s easy to miss the Gambia. Tucked on the bulge of the western coast, it is the smallest country on the mainland, barely 30 miles across at its widest point, stretching along the lower section of the Gambia river. This mere ribbon of land is surrounded by Senegal on three sides but claims a fine coastal strip where the river meets the Atlantic ocean. Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of independence for one of Africa’s most stable states, no longer part of the Commonwealth but still using English as its official language, at least for the time being. Add the promise of winter sun, just six hours away and no jetlag, and it’s no wonder the Gambia has proved popular with British tourists. Imagine soft tingling sands, swaying palms, warm waters, a cool sea breeze sweeping the shore, the perfect picture postcard whether one opts for quiet beaches or the popular Senegambia strip with its fruit stalls, thatched restaurants and savvy ‘bumsters’ selling African beads, wood carvings, sea shells and cashew nuts. It’s friendly, colourful and most exciting when a small fleet of 58
The Gambia
dug-out canoes appears on the horizon, riding the crest of the waves, and everyone rushes down to the beach to help pull in the fishing nets. There’s much bargaining and sorting out on the sand, red snapper, bonga, cat fish, calamari and more, before the men head for home with whatever is left for the family’s supper. Broad sands cover much of the shore, secluded coves hide here and there, framed by rocks and cliffs, and when the sun sets all red and gold over the ocean, myriad tropical birds twitter in the trees. It’s a magical moment. But there is more to the Gambia than sand and sea. Banjul, the capital, has a lively market brimming with fancy footwear, frilly clothes, batik, knobbly tomatoes and bags of ice cold water. Tailors compete for business, babies bob on their mother’s back and tourists climb up to the balcony for a bird’s eye view of the nearby streets. Meanwhile, others seek out the Gambia’s UNESCO heritage, from Kunta Kinteh island and related sites, highlighting European encounters and the slave trade, to the stone circles of Senegambia, a vast cross-
By Solange Hando border area with a sacred landscape dating back 1500 years. As for nature lovers, the Gambia is a dream. You may not find the ‘Big Five’ of eastern or southern Africa but this tiny country manages seven nature reserves and national parks, home to monitors and crocodiles, endangered monkeys, pretty butterflies such as the dark blue pansy or citrus swallowtail, and 576 species of birds, in wetlands, forest and along the shore. Highlights include watching the sun rise over the mangrove when nothing disturbs the peace but the gentle paddle of traditional canoes. A bird calls, a kingfisher dives in a flash of colour and soon the dawn chorus rises all around, parakeets, sunbirds, sanderlings, drongos, black egrets and many more. A golden light spreads across the creek, oyster shells glisten on the mangrove roots and the canoes drift in silence in this quiet country basking on the banks of its namesake river. According to legend, Gambia means ‘place of the king’, a glorious name for the smallest nation on the African mainland.
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The Americans have a simple formula for muscle cars – big V8 engines, chunky coupé bodies, rear wheel drive. The Japanese, however, take a different ap proach – smaller highly tuned engines, compact bodies and lots of clever engineering. The result is sports cars that will keep up in a drag race but per form much better in the corners. Here’s my pick of the bunch.
Nissan 350Z (2003 to 2008) The penultimate model in Nis san’s acclaimed Z car range, the curvy styling harks back to the original 240Z but the 3.5 litre V6 is bang up to date, delivering 300bhp and a wonderful metallic howl. The 5.8 second 060 time is respectable without being outrageous while the handling is nearly up there with a Porsche Boxter. This smart allrounder is surprisingly affordable; pick up a 2007 model with 60k on the clock for £7500.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo (1998 to present)
The thinking man’s answer to the Subaru Imprezza WRX, the Evo takes a humdrum family saloon car and turns it into a fire breathing monster by turbo charging the 2.0 litre engine 60
within an inch of its life and fit ting 4 wheel drive and some reasonably tasteful spoilers. The stock version produces 300bhp, good for 060 in 4.5 seconds, but tuners can easily uprate that to 460bhp. The real appeal of the Evo lies in the intelligent four wheel drive system which allows unbelievable cornering speeds; this car is really a thug in a suit. Buying one can be a minefield – lots of them have been over tuned, raced or stolen and re covered. There’s also ten differ ent versions to choose from. I found a 2006 Mk IX with only 39,000 miles on it for a relatively pricey £11k.
Honda S2000 (1999 to 2009)
Arguably the most complete two seater roadster you can buy, the S2000 combines the simple styling of a Mazda MX5 with an amazing, normally aspirated 2 litre engine that revs all the way up to 9000rpm and produces an astonishing 240bhp, good for 0 60 in 6.2 seconds, not to men tion a totally addictive howl. With all that power, the handling can be a bit of a handful but wan nabe racers can have a lot of fun. Throw in Honda’s legendary reliability and build quality and what’s not to like? The car re ceived a minor facelift in 2004
so it’s worth buying one after that year. Expect to pay £7,500 for a pristine 04 car with less than 50k under its belt.
Nissan 300ZX (1989 to 2000)
This muscular but curvaceous coupe is possibly the closest Nissan ever got to the American muscle car philosophy – it would stand up well to a Ford Mustang. Power comes from a twin turbo 3.0 litre V6 that kicks out a hefty 300bhp (serious oomph for the time). Despite the cutting edge chassis technology (it had adap tive rear wheel steering) the handling is only average but, with a comfy ride and bags of equipment, it makes an excel lent long distance cruiser. Unloved by Z car enthusiasts, the 300ZX really is as cheap as chips; you can pick one up for under a grand. £4800 gets you a mint 1994 example that has covered a mere 50,000 miles – undoubtedly the cheapest way of getting from 060 in 5 sec onds flat. Kit Johnson
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Pets Corner... (Dec14)_Layout 1 25/11/2014 20:50 Page 1
Kidney failure in cats and dogs...
KIDNEY failure can be acute onset or chronic (CKD). Acute kidney failure is relatively uncommon and can result from injury, infection or toxins. Apart from kidney failure due to ingestion of toxins such car anti-freeze, raisins and chocolate (especially relevant at Christmas!), there is little that can be done to pre-empt acute kidney failure and treatment span is usually short. CKD may be as the result of damage to the kidneys due to acute failure or just due to old age. Although dogs can suffer from CKD it is much more common in cats and 30% of cats will die from CKD so this is what we will concentrate on.
For an animal to show signs of kidney failure and for tests to be able to diagnose it, more than ¾ of effective kidney function has been lost. This damage is irreparable so it is of paramount importance to look after the remaining quarter or it will deteriorate rapidly. Classical symptoms of CKD are increased thirst, reduced appetite and weight loss. Unfortunately, pet owners often put these down to old age (which in a way they usually are) and ignore them so by the time the animal is presented it is already in severe kidney failure and treatment will be less successful. If patients are caught early and CKD is treated promptly and correctly, cats can live for several years after first diagnosis. Blood and urine tests are the mainstay of diagnosis although in more severe cases ultrasound or renal biopsy may be indicated, however these are more often of use in acute failure. The most important element of treatment of kidney failure is diet and it is no exaggeration to say the correct diet can be the difference between life and death. Prescription diet suitable for CKD is lower in protein and phosphate. It is most important that this not topped up with normal food or other protein sources, even milk. Many patients will suffer from hypertension (which can cause blindness), dehydration, low potassium and often can become anaemic. Medication is aimed at the above and to help the kidneys function better. This can include tablets to reduce blood 62
pressure and improve kidney function, iron and Vit B injections, potassium supplements and phosphate binders.
It is important that cats especially, receive additional fluids and these can be supplemented by a device implanted into the skin through which fluids can be given easily at home. This can literally be a life saver in severe cases. Regular monitoring is important and blood/urine tests should be performed at least every 3 months so treatment can be adjusted.
M C Atkinson BVSc MRCVs www.stmartinsvetclinic.com
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The Wildlife Zone...FP (Dec14)_Layout 1 25/11/2014 22:46 Page 1
THE WILDLIFE ZONE
PRETTY KILLERS
Andy Mydellton FLS (pictured right) is an environmentalist journalist, the founder and leader of the British wildlife charity, the Foundation for Endangered Species. They are members of the United Nations agency UNESCO with Andy Mydellton being Chairman and the Environmental Concern Advisor to the UNESCO Schools Group. Andy is a Fellow of the Linnean Society. He writes for many publications, mounts photographic exhibitions, gives presentations and broadcasts the 'Andy Mydellton Wildlife Zone' radio programme.
MOST children are fond of ladybirds and usually continue loving the colourful creatures for many years into adulthood. But despite their benign and friendly reputation they are mass killers and voracious predators, as hostile to their prey as anything we witness on the world’s biggest stage, the Serengeti. Whilst ladybirds are hardly megafauna such as lions, crocodiles or hyena, they are still deadly carnivores in their own diminutive horizons. Ladybirds are small animals, do not carry diseases nor have a reputation as being the harbingers of doom. But their real secret for being liked is that they are inoffensive and very colourful to the human eye. I fell in love with ladybirds when I was a child and first explored the natural world near in the Cotswolds. All around our village the meadows and hillsides were normally full of wild flowers such as cowslips, buttercups, dandelions and daisies. All sorts of flying insects made our playing fields, unkempt areas of grass and ‘sward’ their home. The horticulturalists’ problem is pesticides; modern day insect killers which are rarely discriminate and kill friend and foe alike by exterminating all insects, including ladybirds. The alternative facing gardeners is not to use pesticides at all. Ladybirds are tortoise shell-like beetles. There are about 5,000 worldwide species. Some of Britain’s 40 species of ladybirds are hard to identify without specialist help. For example the common two spot is widespread and grows up to 4mm in length. Individuals vary greatly but usually have one black spot on each red shell, or elytra, which they open out to fly. Most confusingly however, some two spot ladybirds can have more than two spots with some of them having black shells with four or six red spots. These winter individually or in small groups in either leaf litter or in covered areas close to the ground. Another common type is the larger seven spot ladybird which often hibernates in garden sheds or tree bark. They usually emerge in spring so that they can lay their eggs in good time for them to hatch in the following summer months. This happens when the adult female chooses to lay her eggs on or near a prolific aphid colony, so that when the eggs hatch their prey is guaranteed. The larvae will eat hundreds of aphids in about three weeks before they pupate and change into a beautiful flying beetle. Other species include the 22 spot ladybird, which are only two to three millimetres long. The 14 spot ladybird is only slightly larger. These yellow and black ladybirds are generally not as common, or as striking perhaps as the red ones, although I consider them just as beautiful. One reason why many ladybirds have such vivid and striking colours which announce their presence is that they are a defence mechanism - it is a warning to its predators that whilst they can be seen and caught, they do not taste nice. The rarer species of ladybirds in Britain must be actively protected. The Harlequin ladybird is an invasive creature from Eastern Asia. It is a larger creature than British ones, and can look more like what most people think of as a conventional beetle. But as well as eating aphids, they prey on other, smaller ladybirds. I can enjoy some feral animals (ie creatures not native to Britain) which add to our biodiversity. But like many conservationists, I dislike and do not welcome invasive species, which are feral animals that become dangerous to indigenous wildlife. Many conservationist organisations, including the Wildlife Trusts and the Foundation for Endangered Species amongst others would like to receive information about the Harlequin ladybird’s presence. This is because they then could be monitored in any one locality. Consequently our indigenous ladybirds may be able to remain free from their damaging predation. In this way caring gardeners and wildlife enthusiasts would be acting as a kind of wildlife ‘amateur policeman’. This is a growing tendency in Britain, which has gathered pace with programmes such as Springwatch where viewers gathered information about their local wildlife and sent it to the appropriate conservation groups. When everyone participates in wildlife activities, a much better and clearer picture can be painted, resulting in better outcomes. Another way of directly helping these beautiful creatures is by buying or making a ladybird cum lacewing box. These are practical homes for many species depending on where the box is situated; generally speaking lacewings prefer the box lower to the ground, whilst many ladybirds have a liking for them to be higher up. After I placed my own box on the house wall, I noticed a sharp increase of ladybird numbers in the garden, and in particular on the stinging nettle patch which I allowed to grow. Whilst I cannot recommend growing nettles to all gardeners, especially those with children, I can report that I once counted nearly twenty ladybirds including six different species. When I see a Harlequin ladybird, I will act to stifle the danger it poses. But I am also ‘growing’ as many native species as possible. Why? Because I feel the same as many other people probably do, even if some of them have stifled their feelings over the years. Ladybirds are just as beautiful now as they always have been and have a loving place in the wildlife garden.
The charities’ contact details are www.ffes.org.uk email: info@ffes.org.uk 64
Thank you - we can't do it without you!65
The best Christmas present I ever had was a young lad’s dream in the early 1960s. I was mad about trains. We lived near the station in a market town, and I spent many an idle hour waiting for the occasional steam locomotive to come wheezing and puffing round the hill with its cargo of freight and even a passenger or two. The daily routine of shunting and signalling, the clanking and hissing of heavy machinery, the shrill whistle of the guard and most of all the billows of steam from a thundering engine, seemed to me like the most exciting sights and sounds in the world. And then, one summer, our fourmile branch line and station closed down. Padlocks, barbed wire and NO TRESPASSING signs barred my way. The stationmaster, signalman and staff were all gone. Someone up there obviously understood my loss, because a few months later, on Christmas morning, I unwrapped the magical gift of a HornbyDublo 462 locomotive, complete with track and rolling stock. In time, my starter set grew into a miniaturised version of the reallife railway just as I’d remembered it, with carriages, junctions, signals, sidings, tunnels and a station complete with hand painted figures of the stationmaster, guard, passengers and porters on the platform. We even had farm animals grazing in fields. Well, quite near the sofa.
‘Grow up’, I hear you say. Well, I did, rather joltingly. A few years later, when I was out, my mum answered a knock on the door by donating the whole lot to a local charity. Everything! Even the sheep and cattle! I would forgive my dear mother everything, but really! In the meantime, I’d found out why our branch line and station had closed so suddenly. The new chairman of British Rail, Dr Richard Beeching, had been appointed by the government to make the national network pay its way. In return for a salary nearly twice that of the Prime Minister, Beeching set to work with a vengeance, and quite without sentiment. Too many routes, he argued, were scarcely used and leaking money; too many lines duplicated each other; too many services connected towns and villages that had had their day. Above all, more and more families had cars. Road, not rail, was the future. By the end of the decade, Beeching’s axe had fallen on about 4,000 miles of railway and onethird of the country’s stations. Beeching would have gone even further, but he was moved aside and given a Baronetcy before completing his masterplan and although British Rail never did pay its way and became something of a national joke, even old sentimentalists like me appreciate now that Beeching was more of a visionary than an ogre, and saved the Treasury a small fortune. Fifty years on, we’ve come full circle. Now the government sees an enhanced role for rail, proposing new highspeed lines northsouth (HS2) and eastwest (HS3). There’s even talk of reinstating one or two of the lines that Beeching cut. The planners tell us that the UK’s growing population needs better transport links, whatever the cost and whatever damage is done to our diminishing Green Belt, not to mention the lives of hundreds of thousands of people who will be affected by the construction.
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Continued from over page..
And I’ve come full circle too. Rather than be moaning the loss of my station – and my be loved train set – I find myself reading the Beeching Report and, in the case of HS2, agreeing with him. With the cost likely to spiral towards £80 billion, we need to ask the same questions he did. Will it pay its way? Can our debtladen country afford it? Do we actually need it, when we already have fast trains dupli cating its route between London and the north? Will ordinary people be able to afford the higher fares? And will it bring more to the coun try than it takes away? Judging by the latest national survey on HS2, most of the country thinks the answer to all of these questions is ‘No’. Dear Santa: this Christmas, HS2 is one train set we can all do without, thank you very much.
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I’m Dreaming Of A Green Christmas by Pippa Greenwood
I love giving presents, whether that gift is a thing of beauty or something totally practical. With gardening as one of the nation’s top pastimes, here are a few ideas for things which I am sure most green fingered friends would be delighted to receive.
If you know a newish gardener then the basic tools are always well received, especially if you choose good quality, sturdy ones. So think fork, spade and rake – yes, they are difficult to wrap but worth the effort. For anyone gripped by the Grow Your Own bug you could give one of my ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood ‘ gift cards – they choose the veg they want to grow and I send them out, at the right time for planting and accompanied by weekly advice and tips emails….it couldn’t be simpler! Find out more at www. pippagreenwood.com Weeding is always an issue so a hoe is useful or for smaller spaces (such as in between plants, in gravel, between paving, or to tackle weeds within planters) try the hand held red-handled weeders – I think they’re indispensable. A few packets of vegetable 68
seeds are always appreciated and most garden centres already have a good variety in stock. If you want to spend a bit more, a heated propagator makes a fantastic gift. With tomatoes, peppers, aubergines and many of the fancier ornamentals needing to be sown soon, it’ll be a gift put to use straight away.
Gardening gloves too are something we can always have more of. Some of the gauntlet style gloves are perfect if you have to tackle a pruning job on a thorny plant or one with really rough or sharp leaves. Alternatively, there are many lower-priced types available with gripping pads on the fingers or with leather toughened strips across the knuckles. Classic greens, ravishing reds or funky florals, gloves are definitely not boring. Birds in the garden not only help to keep pest numbers down, but they also add charm which everybody appreciates. A peanut feeder, nest box or perhaps even a bird table will attract them in and there are many designs available from modern to rustic. For the ‘other half’ who is less inclined to help with the tough jobs in the garden, admit defeat
and give them a garden lounger or even a hammock. As container gardening continues to rise in popularity, another idea is to give a few gorgeous looking containers - either empty for the friend or relative to decide what to put in it themselves, or make them into a complete gift by planting them up with a selection of plants and under planting them with bulbs which you know will bring extra delight next year. Finally, houseplants such as poinsettias, cyclamen, indoor azaleas and jasmines are perfect for providing bright colour indoors at this time of year. But remember when you buy any indoor plant during cold weather, it is essential that you protect it thoroughly on the journey from the shop to your car and from your car into your house as even a tiny exposure to cold drafts and low temperatures can cause damage. Visit www.pippagreenwood. com for a great rate of Gardening-related Gifts including stylish ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ gift cards, Pippa’s favourite weeding tool, signed books and lots of useful garden items for your friends & family…or for yourself!
Create a Scandinavian feel
this Christmas by combining folk and sophistication, cosy and minimalism. Keep it simple – too much clutter is definitely not a part of this particular look. Your colour palette is, of course, mainly red and white, with green, brown and black for contrast, and the occasional dusting of glitter or artificial snow. Natural accessories such as twigs, branches and fir cones are a great starting point, with generously sized garlands and wreaths made from woven greenery. A sprinkling of metal lanterns with flickering candles creates atmosphere, and a real Christmas tree
is, of course, the centrepiece folk-style embroidery are ideal (clip-on Scandi-style candles for larger presents. A gingham optional). table runner is delightful, as are wooden or woven willow In general, materials should stars, berry garlands, be as natural as miniature trees, possible, from bark to appliquéd bunting and hessian, felt to Fair reindeer baubles. Isle, emphasising all You’ve got the idea? sorts of appealing Then raise a cup of textures. If you can knit, schnapps and fill sew or otherwise make your home with festive your own decorations, Scandinavian cheer. so much the better but, if not, there are plenty of Images: Far left top -Christmas gorgeous accessories in the stockings, hand-embroidered on wool shops and online felt, £48, Jan Constantine, Tel 01270 created by talented 821194; www.janconstantine.com; craftspeople. Far left bottom - Embroidered birds stocking, £30, House of Fraser, Tel 0345 Perfection is not 602 1073; www.houseoffraser.co.uk; required: simply Left bottom - Linen Scandi reusable that appealingly youChristmas evercrackers, wondered £12.50 each, Kate homespun Have look. Sproston Design. Tel 07765 675624; A row of knitted if there’s an alternative to www.katesprostondesign.com; Abovestockings, for residential or respite care Scandi Merry Christmas decoration (set example, would be of four) £16, House of Fraser. Tel 0345 one? just perfect,for whilea loved 602 1073; www.houseoffraser.co.uk. linen sacks with
A more caring approach to care at home. With EdenCare there is.
We offer quality care at home for you, or your loved one, whether a child, young adult or an elderly person. We are a local and independent provider of care and understand the importance of choice. If you would like further details of our individually tailored care-at-home packages please contact us for a no obligation chat or visit our website.
Tel. 01753 885556 www.EdenCareatHome.co.uk 69
The Christmas Truce by Alison Runham
German soldiers of the 134th Saxon Regiment and British soldiers of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment meet in no man’s land, December 26
Christmas Eve 1914. The Western Front. Weeks of rain have ended and mud is becoming ice. Despite calls for a Christmas ceasefire, fighting has continued throughout December, although today it seems half-hearted in many places. Staff Sergeant Clement Barker is in his trench with his comrades. Across No Man’s Land, the Germans are decorating tiny trees sent from home with candles as they sing Stille Nacht (Silent Night). “The trenches were a blaze of Christmas trees,” one Tommy recalled, “and our sentries were regaled for hours with traditional Christmas songs.” In some places, English troops decide that they “ought to retaliate in some way.” “So we sang The First Noël... they all began clapping; and then they struck up another favourite of theirs, O Tannenbaum.” At Barker’s trench, a German soldier appears. “He said that if (we) did not fire, they wouldn’t in the morning,” Barker wrote later. Next morning, Barker’s men cautiously venture out to retrieve and bury their dead. No shots are fired. Soon they’re shaking hands with the Germans and exchanging gifts, and then “a football is kicked out of our trenches, and Germans and English play 70
football.” Henry Williamson, who later wrote Tarka the Otter, also recalled football matches, but behind German lines; if British and German troops played together, he made no mention of it. However, despite the myths surrounding Truce matches between both sides, some are well-documented in letters. Two soldiers of the 6th Cheshires described a huge, free-for-all match in Wulverghem, Belgium, where No Man’s Land was less damaged by shell fire. Williamson recalled the Germans singing Silent Night, too, before inviting the English closer. His unit suspected a trap. “We crept out... expecting any moment to fall flat with the machine guns opening up. And nothing happened.” Both sides were soon exchanging gifts and greetings, and similar scenes were occurring at many points along the Front. Cigarettes, rations, uniform buttons and even addresses were exchanged. One English trench received a German chocolate cake, together with a ceasefire request and an invitation to an impromptu concert. “Just think,” wrote one soldier to his family, “while you were eating turkey I was talking and shaking hands with the very men I had been trying to
kill a few hours before!” The truce at Williamson’s position held for four days before orders arrived to end fraternisation, while the Germans were warned to expect visits from senior officers; they sent a message across, explaining that they would have to fire their machine guns, but would fire high to avoid hitting anyone. For Barker, peace lasted a little longer too. “Night came and still no shots. Boxing day the same, and has remained so up to now,” he wrote a few days later. But gradually fighting resumed. Captain J.C. Dunn’s account of resuming hostilities is poignant: “I fired three shots in the air and put up a flag with “Merry Christmas” on it, and I climbed on the parapet...[the Germans] put up a sheet with “Thank you” on it, and the German Captain appeared... We both bowed and saluted... he fired two shots in the air, and the War was on again.” Both truces (and football games) had occurred in earlier wars. So what makes the 1914 Christmas Truce especially memorable? Perhaps because in a war that cost over 10 million lives, it was, as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle said, “one human episode amid all the atrocities.”
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REGULAR EVENTS... Events at Harefield Community Centre, Priory Avenue, UB9 6AP MON Cameo Club (3rd Mon month) 10am-12pm; Indoor Bowls (Short Mat) 2pm-5pm; Harefield Wine Club (2nd Mon in the month) 7.45-9.30pm; Judo (Seniors not 2nd Mon in month) 810pm. TUES Line Dancing 10.45am1.15pm; Bingo 7.45pm - 10.30pm. WED Fitness, Fun & Dance 10.30am12.00pm; Singing for Fun (1st Wed in month) 1-2.30pm; Judo Club 6.307.45pm; Dancing Club 8.15pm10.30pm. THURS Happy Families Group 9.45-11.45am; Tea Dances 24pm; Whist 7.30-10pm; Ladies Club (2nd Thur in month) 8-10pm. FRI Bridge Club 10.30am-12.30pm; Line Dancing 12.45-3pm; Indoor Bowls (Short Mat) 7.30-10pm. All enquiries to Lynne Mogge 01895 824621 or e: hare fieldcommunitycentre@btconnect.com
Centre, Harefield or call Phyllis Nash on 01895 476 644 / phyllnash@gmail.com Crosier Investment Club Improve personal investment skills. Meets 7.30pm, third Thursday in month at Pinner Village Hall, Chapel Lane, Pinner, HA5 1AA. Call 0208 427 3559, e: secretary@crosierinvestment.org.uk w: www.crosierinvestment.org.uk
body, with fun dance routines to music for women of all fitness levels. Tue 7.308.30pm at Vyners School, Warren Road, Ickenham, UB10 8AB. Call Rosemary 01628 776838 before coming. www.thefitnessleague.com Fitness Yoga Improve flexibility, strength and balance. Monday 6-7pm at Denham Village Memorial Hall. Call Sandra 07867470240 Lisa 07533549072 E: lisa.sandra.fitness@gmail.com
Rock ‘n’ Roll Monday's in Harefield! Every Monday. Beginners Jive Dance Classes 7.45pm. Slow practise session 8.30-9pm. Social Rock n Roll 9-11pm. No partner required - no experience necessary! Harefield Cricket Club, Breakspear Road North, Harefield, UB9 6NE. £5 entry. E: therockingrebels @gmail.com, 07947 106607 www.facebook.com/therockingrebels 1950s Rock n Roll with DJs The Rocking Rebels 1st Friday of every month 7.3011.30pm. Retro stalls, BYO drinks. St Marys Church Hall, High St, Harefield UB9 6BX. Contact 07947 106607 therockingrebel@gmail.com www.facebook.com/therockingrebels
HOBBIES... Art Classes Drawing, pastels, oil & watercolour at New Denham Community Centre Autumn, Spring & Winter Terms Tue 1-3.30pm, Wed 12.45-3.15pm and 7.30-9.30pm. Call Tony 0207 243 3787 Art Smart Weekly Art Classes at Denham Village Hall. Drawing and Painting for beginn-ers and Improvers Thursdays 1.30-3.30pm. Tutor Roz Smith call 01494 670372 Chinese Brush Painting Group Come and join our friendly group meeting on Saturday mornings. The class is guided by an experienced tutor so no experience required! You will learn how to develop your own style as well as practicing Chinese calligraphy. Find us at Harefield Library, Park Lane Village
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Denham History Society Meets 2nd Tues of the month, 7.30pm St. Marks Hall, Denham Green. Call 01895 833989 Pamela@craftygiraffe.co.uk
Hillingdon Decorative & Fine Arts Society Enjoy 10 expert lectures a year about art and culture from around Britain. Outings to galleries & places of cultural interest. Receive NADFAS Review, Interested? Come along to a lecture, cost £6. See www.hillingdondfas.co.uk, email: membership@hillingdonfas.co.uk or call Ann Lowe 01895 638147 Hillingdon Natural History Society Meets 1st Wed of the month, Scout HQ, Gatting Way, Uxbridge. enquiries@ hillingdon-naturalhistory society.org.uk Inland Waterways Associations Meets 2nd Tues of every month at Hillingdon Canal Club, Waterloo Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX, 7.30pm. middlesex.social@waterways.org.uk
KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA... Aerobics Denham Village Memorial Hall. Every Mon and Wed 4.30-5.30pm Call Jean Nisbet 01895 832063 Bagot Stack (Fitness League) Term Time Only. Vyners School, UB10 8AB, Tue 7.30-8.30pm. Also Mon & Thu in Windsor. Call Rosemary 01628 776838. www.thefitnessleague.com Boot Camp Fun and friendly exercise class held at a private location in Gerrards Cross. Every Mon, Tues, Fri 9.15-10am. Qualified Personal Trainer and Level 3 Contact Julie on 07769 311789 or visit: www.juliegxfit.com Bootcamp Circuit for Adults (Mixed) Wednesdays, 7-8.15pm Denham Village Memorial Hall. Tel: Jayne 07968 361965 Dance, Gymnastics and Free Running Classes By Futunity Uk. Ages 2-adults catered for and all styles of dance from RAD ballet to Zumba. Full class listings at www.futunityuk.com. Call 01895 251224 or email admin@futunityuk.com Fitness League Tone & stretch exercises for the whole
Fitsteps Cha Cha, Waltz, Quickstep or Jive at Denham Memorial Hall. Mondays 7pm and Wednesdays 10am. Call 07834 197745. info@limelightdancing.co.uk General Yoga Class Higher Denham Community Hall, Lower Road, Higher Denham, UB9 5EA. Wed 7.30-9pm. Thu 9.45-11.15am with BWY certified teacher tel: 01895 820267 Harefield Amateur Drama Society Tuesday, 8-10pm. Park Lane Village Centre, Park Lane, Harefield. Call Tony on 01895 820672 Jazzercise Classes New Denham Community Centre Mon 9.30-10.30am, Tues 6.45-7.45pm. Wed & Fri 10-11am, Thurs 10-11am. Denham Village Memorial Hall Village Rd, Denham, Bucks Thurs 6.30-7.30pm Wendy Whitefoord, Tel: 07803 602142 e: wendy.whitefoord@btinternet.com www.jazzercise.com Ladies Only Kickboxing Club Wed 6.30-8.00pm, Watts Hall, Redford Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1SZ. First Class FREE! Call Leanne Phillips on 07518 848285 e:leanne@kickboxinglondon. co.uk. www.kickboxing-london.co.uk Line Dancing At Higher Denham Community Centre, Off Old Rectory Lane, Higher Denham. Mon 7-10.15pm, starts with beginners, then onto improvers and finally from 9-10.15pm, Intermediates. Contact Christina on 07952 815076, email : c.capel477@btinternet.com, website wwww.chalfontlinedanceclub.co.uk or Facebook ‘chalfontlinedanceclub’ Modern Jive Classes Mon 8-11pm, West Drayton Community Centre and Tue & Thu 8-11pm, Uxbridge Civic Centre. First Night Entry & Free Lifetime membership with this listing. Contact Alan: 0208 933 4350 or 07860 250961 www.clubceroc.com email: alanandsue@clubceroc.com continued overleaf...
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KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA CONTINUED... Pink Academy of DANCE Classes held daily at New Denham Community Centre. For boys & girls from 2 years to Adults. Call 01895 257553 Admin@pinkacademy. co.uk www.pinkacademy.co.uk or call
Uxbridge Musical Theatre Ruislip Conservative Club, 56-58, Ickenham Road, Ruislip, Middlesex HA4 7DQ. Tuesday 8-10pm. Call Phil Harrison 01895 636367 Email: mail@umtheatre.co.uk or see www.umtheatre.co.uk
read music is not essential. Rehearsals on Thursday at St Andrews Centre, Rogers Lane, Stoke Poges, 7.45pm. Come along or call Naomi on 07831 217575 or Anthea on 01753 662355
Rockin' 8s Square Dancing Modern American style - every Thurs 8.15pm. New Denham & Willowbank Community Centre, Oxford Road, New Denham. UB9 4DW. Call Jean 01895 622859 or paul@stingproductions.com SALSA (all styles) Every Monday at Uxbridge Community Centre, 32b The Greenway, Uxbridge UB8 2PJ from 7.45pm to 10pm. Come and join Mina Queen Salsa for some amazing fun. Call 07958 578962 or email mina@queensalsa.com
Salsa Classes Every Monday: The Middlesex Arms, Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HG. Beginners class starts 8pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.45-9.30pm Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm Every Wednesday: The WatersEdge, Canal Cottages, Packetboat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. Beginners class starts 7:30pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.30-9.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm Simply Walk Langley & Black Parks Every Monday Langley Park, 10am Thursday Black Park, 10am. Second Sunday of month Langley Park at 11am. See www.friendsoflangleypark.co.uk Social Dancing Ballroom Latin & Sequence Harefield Community Centre, Priory Avenue, Harefield. Every Wed, 8pm. Beginners welcome. Call 01895 634674 Simply Walk in Denham First Sunday of every month, everyone welcome! Denham Village Green 10.45am for 11am start. Approximately 90 minute walk, 2.5-3miles. Led by trained volunteers as part of a healthy walk scheme funded by Bucks County Council, local District Councils and Bucks PCT. For details of other walks in the Bucks area call 01494 475367 www.buckscc.gov.uk/rightsofway
Zumba Fitness Every Wednesday 8-9pm at New Denham Community Hall, Oxford Road, UB9 4DW. Call Martine 07788 563572 www.zumbadolls.co.uk
Zumba Fitness with Danielle Every Monday 7-8pm at Harefield Football Club, Breakspear Road North, Harefield. UB9 6NE. Call Danielle 07989 128131 www.zumba-class.co.uk Zumba Gold For Older Active Adults. Every Friday 11am at Higher Denham Community Hall, Lower Road, Higher Denham, UB9 5EA. Call Martine 07788 563572 www.zumbadolls.co.uk Zumba with Ruddy Thurs 7-8pm, St Marks Hall Denham Green UB9 5HD and Sats 9.30-10.30am at Harefield Academy Northwood Way UB9 6ET. Call Ruddy 07901 828051
MUSIC... Drumbeatz Drum tuition for beginners in a rehearsal studio in Denham by Melanie Kleyn, qualified HND, now on degree at ACM. Children over 8yrs, ladies, anyone keen to learn. 3.15-5.30pm or daytime. Eves taken by bands rehearsing. Email: drumsmel@gmail.com or text mobile on 07757 635880 Faraday Country Music Club in Slough SL2 1RN. Country Music every Thursday for listeners, western partners, freestyle or line dancers. From 8-11pm. Contact Deb 07986 050742. www.faradaycountry.co.uk Guitar Lessons Complete beginners welcome. Contact Sam for a FREE lesson 07798 588496 sam@uxbridgeguitarlessons.co.uk
Social Line Dancing At St Marys Church Hall, Harefield Last Sat of the month 7.30-10.30pm
Music Lessons at Little Halings Studio Piano and French Horn lessons with experienced, friendly young female teacher, Victoria Coghlan. Rehearsal room at Little Halings Studios in Denham. All welcome. Guitar tuition is also available. Call: 07737 493980 (Victoria) E: victocoghlan@gmail.com
Tea Dance Harefield Community Centre, Priory Ave on Thurs 2-4pm. All welcome. Free car parking. Call John 01895 284428
Stoke Poges Singers A friendly four-part choir singing a wide variety of music. New members welcome (no auditions. The ability to
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Sing for Fun - Adults No auditions or previous singing experience necessary. You must just enjoy singing! Higher Denham Community Hall, Wednesday (TT) 2.30-4pm. Call Avril on 07587 175640 The Windsor & District Big Bands Appreciation Society We meet on 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm, Datchet Hall, Horton Road, Datchet. Meetings featuring the music of the big bands of the 1940s and 1950s Swing era. Two recitals from records, tapes & CDS, along with a raffle and sometimes there's even a live band. Call Derek Verrier on 01753 654398 Yiewsley & West Drayton Band Rehearse every Wednesday and Friday 810pm 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 Open to all ages wanting to learn to play a brass instrument or 'brush up' your skills. Every Wed during term time 6.457.45pm, St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. Contact Abi on 07985 302 856 or emailtraining@ywdband.com
PRE-SCHOOL & KIDS GROUPS... 2370 (Denham) Squadron Air Training Corps ATC HQ, Tilehouse Lane, Denham Aerodrome Denham, Bucks, UB9 5DN. Monday and Thursday 7.30-9.30pm. Currently recruiting 13-17 year old males and females. Call 01895 834522 (Mon & Thu only) 2nd Denham Scout Group Scout Hut, The Pyghtle, Denham Green Close, Denham Green Beavers Age 6-8 Thu 5.45-7pm. Cubs Age 8-10 Wed 6.30-7.45pm Scouts Age 10-15 Friday 7-9pm Tel: Linda Batten 01753 892373 Denham & Gerrards Cross Children’s Centre Tilehouse School, Nightingale Way, Denham, UB9 5JL. Free sessions for families with children age 5 and under including Messy Play and Stay & Play sessions. Call 01895 835967. continued overleaf...
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PRE-SCHOOL & KIDS GROUPS CONTINUED... Denham Girlguides 1st Denham Rainbows (age 5-7) 4th Denham Brownies (age 7-10) 4th Denham Guides (age 10-14) For more details on meeting times and info on joining visit www.gxanddenham.cfsites.org
Denham Youth Club (ages 8-11 years) Higher Denham Community Hall, Lower Road, Uxbridge UB9 5EA. Thursday 6.15pm to 7.45pm. Call 01895 834313. Slough Sea Cadets Parade nights on Monday and Thursday 7.30-9.30pm at Langley Pavillion, Langley Road, Slough, SL3 8BS. Male & Female Junior Cadets (age 10-12 yrs) and Cadets (age 12-18 yrs). Fees £2 per week, courses from £5 for weekend. Visit us on Facebook, pop-in or email: sloughseacadets@yahoo.co.uk Youths United Senior Youth Group in Denham, at Martin Bakers Social Club. Ages 12-18 years Wednesday evenings 7-309pm. Tel Joyce Haynes 01895 832643 Tiny Talk Baby Signing Classes Tuesday classes at St Mary’s Church Hall, High Street, Harefield UB9 6BX at 10am, price £5.00 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. Call Bev Meier 01895 824935 or 0781 8025993 Tiny Toes Childcare Full Day Care Nursery. Call 01753 655650 or tinytoes@ivercommunity.org Activities for families with children Children aged 0-5 years offered at The Denham and Gerrards Cross Children’s Centre, Nightingale Way, Denham, Bucks. UB9 5JL. Call 01895 835967
Kung Fu Club West Drayton Great Kung Fu work out for everybody, on: Tuesday 5.30-6.30, Friday 7.308.30, Sunday 5.30-6.30. West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Road, UB7 9JL. Contact Ella: 07702 479 435 or sportsclubuk@gmail.com Shotokan Karate Sports Hall, Tilehouse Lane, Denham for men, women and children age 8+. Monday, 7-8pm. Interested? Contact Erin on 01494 758079 or visit www.chilternkarate.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 & SUPPORT... 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 01895 637444. Slimming World New Denham Community Centre Tuesday, 10-11.30am. To register turn up at 10am, call Mandy 07879 897578
SOCIAL GROUPS... Denham Green W.I. Every 2nd Mon in the month 2-4.15pm, St Marks Hall, Denham. All ladies welcome. Contact Linda 01895 257895 or linda. allum@hotmail.co.uk or Laura 01895835868 or ljphillips22@me.com. Denham Lions 1st and 3rd Monday of the month, 8pm at Denham Garden Village, Denham Green. 18+. info@denhamlions.org.uk
SELF DEFENCE...
Denham Wives Group Last Tuesday of each month at St. Mark’s Hall Denham Green 7.15pm. Contact Ann Collins 01895 833820 or acollins683@uwclub.net
Karate Club of Denham For ages 5 years and up at New Denham Community Centre Sundays 9.15-11am Tel: Dominic 07988 743725
Friendly Whist Drive Harefield Community Centre, Priory Avenue, Harefield. Every Thurs 7.30pm. Beginners welcome. Contact Lyn on 01923 820173
Karate Club of Uxbridge For ages 5 years and up The Uxbridge Centre, The Greenway Wed, 5pm-7pm Tel: Dominic 07988 743725
Rotaract Club of Langley & Iver Meet at 8pm every 2nd & 4th Tues of the month, the Red Lion Pub, Langley, SL3 7EN. A group of 18-30's that raise
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money for charity and also have a busy social calendar. If you would like to meet new people, raise money and have many laughs please contact us! www.langley-iver-rotaract.org.uk Stoke Poges Bridge Club meet at St Andrew’s Church Hall in Rogers Lane, SL2 4LN on Monday from 1.30-5.30pm for players who want to improve their game. Call 01753 642 438 www.stokepogesbridgeclub.org.uk Uxbridge Conservative Club Bingo, Carpet Bowls, Table Tennis, Lunches, Quiz & Race Nights etc. at 46 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 1PJ. Contact Georgina Baile on 01895 233653 or 07778 348082, e: udcc@btconnect. com or visit www.uxbconclub.com Women’s Social Group Social group for women. Looking to expand your social group and make new friends? We meet regularly for coffee, a chat - open women of all ages. Please call Seema on 07730 898635 or email seemaa@seemaa.co.uk
SPORT... Denham Bowls Club Denham Way, Denham, UB9 5AX. Lawn Bowling. Coaching available. Call Brian Simpson (Sec) on 01895 834007 or Jenny Johns on 01895 833845 Denham Cricket Club Playing or social members welcome. Way & Tillard Memorial Cricket Ground, off Cheapside Lane, Denham Village. Tel: Bill Nicholas 01895 834527 Pink Ladies Netball Club All levels and abilities welcome. Training takes place at Stockley Academy, West Drayton every Tuesday. Senior training 16+yrs 7.30-9pm Back to Netball 16+yrs 7.30- 8.30pm Under 16s for details 01895 448878 email: plnetball@hotmail.co.uk visit www.pinkladiesnetball.co.uk Table Tennis Denham Village Memorial Hall Tuesdays 5.30-10pm. Call Richard Cottle on 01895 835292 Uxbridge Squash Club All squash players welcome. Uxbridge Cricket Club, Park Road, Uxbridge. See uxbridgesquash.org.uk or email: squash@uxbridgesquash.org.uk Tel: 01895 237571
6 0 0 2 4 8 0 2 4 6 7 8 0 4 6 8 4 6 0 2 2 4 6 8 8 0 2 4 6 8 0 6 7 8
se is pt by s. In rt 77
Roast Turkey
with Leek, Apricot and Chestnut Stuffing
Serves 8-10
Ready in approx 4½ hours, plus resting time Roasting the turkey in a ’tent’ of buttered foil will keep it moist and
succulent. Always allow time for the cooked bird to rest in a warm place before carving. Heat half the butter and the olive oil in a frying pan and fry the leek and shallots for 6-7 minutes until softened. Remove from the heat and stir in the apricots, breadcrumbs, chestnuts and half the thyme leaves. Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper and leave to cool.
Ingredients: • 100g butter • 1 tbsp olive oil
Preheat the oven to 190°C/170°C fan/gas 5. Line a large roasting tin with buttered foil. Use about one third of the stuffing mix to stuff the neck end of the turkey (press the rest of the stuffing in a shallow ovenproof dish to cook separately). Weigh the stuffed turkey and calculate the cooking time - allow 20 minutes per 450g plus 20 minutes. Place the turkey in the lined roasting tin and smear all over the skin with the remaining butter. Sprinkle over the rest of the thyme leaves and season.
• 1 leek, trimmed and chopped • 2 shallots, peeled and finely chopped • 75g ready to eat dried apricots, finely chopped
Cover the turkey with a tent of buttered foil and roast in the preheated oven for the calculated cooking time, basting occasionally. Uncover the turkey for the last 45 minutes until the skin is golden and the juices run clear when a skewer is inserted into the thickest part of one thigh. If the juices still run slightly pink return the turkey to the oven for a further 1520 minutes then check again.
• 150g fresh white breadcrumbs • 100g cooked chestnuts, finely chopped
Leave the turkey, loosely covered with foil, in a warm place to rest for at least 20 minutes. Stretch the bacon rashers with the back of a knife and cut each rasher in half. Wrap the short rashers around the cocktail sausages, securing with a cocktail stick. Place in baking tray and cook in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through. Drizzle a couple of spoonfuls of juices from the turkey over the stuffing in the dish and cook in the oven at the same time as the bacon-wrapped sausages for 20 minutes.
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves • 5.4kg oven-ready turkey, giblets removed • 16 cocktail sausages
Serve the turkey on a large warmed platter with the bacon-wrapped sausages and garnished with fresh herbs. Serve the extra stuffing separately along with all the usual festive vegetables.
• 4 rashers smoked streaky bacon • Fresh herbs, to garnish 78
TIP
For a quick gravy, simmer the roast turkey juices with a splash of red wine and a couple of spoonfuls of redcurrant jelly.
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