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Well, we’re definitely bang in the middle of summer now and already the longest day of the year is behind us. Having taken a quick glance back at my July ramblings of previous years, I noticed that a common theme has been my dissatisfaction with the previous month’s weather. This year we’ve seen some beautiful weather, the bbqs have been out in force for weeks and the plants in my garden are flourishing nicely. A stark contrast to this time last year, when everything had virtually turned into a sodden mush.
Tel: 01895 835907 Mob: 07759 536494
What Happened in July 1961 6 Property Matters 10 Coffee Break Puzzles 12 Puzzle Solutions 14 Computer Helpdesk 16 Parks & Local Events 18 Short Story 20 RSPCA Rehoming Appeal 22 Finance: How to deal effectively with debt 24 Wordsearch 26 Sunny Summer Days 28 Travel: Inle Lake Myanmar 30 Our Financial Times 32 Cake & Bake 34 Whats on at the Compass Theatre 36 Beer of the Month 36 Denham Against HS2 38 Citizens Advice Bureau / Tel Numbers 40 Health: Have a healthy holiday 42 Reader Travel Offers 44 Road Test: Mercedes C250 Bluetec 48 Wildlife Zone 52 Beauty: Perfect Nails 54 Garden Feature 56 We can help 58 Interiors: Double up your space 60 Children’s Puzzle Page 62 Clubs, Groups & Classes 64, 66 & 68
In and Around Magazines cover: West Drayton . Iver . Denham . Uxbridge Ickenham . Ruislip
Like most parents, I’m now keeping my fingers crossed for continued sunshine throughout the coming school holidays. Even my teenage daugh ter, who will turn fifteen this month, can only watch so much television in a six week period. Right, well I’m off to clean the bbq, cut the grass, get the garden parasol out and pour myself a large gin and tonic! In the meantime, do continue to keep in touch, either by telephone, email or facebook and let us know what’s going on where you are. We always do our very best to print your events and local information, and also to share it with other readers via our facebook page. Why not give us a visit and a Like!
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Angela Fisher 01895 835907 / 07759 536494 info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk
www.inandaroundpublishing.co.uk 4
We are grateful for the support of local businesses whose adverts appear in this publication and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions, claims made by advertisers or endorse companies, products or services. This publication, its contents and advert designs are © of In and Around Publishing. Any copying or reproduction in part or fully, is strictly forbidden without our prior consent.
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What happened in... ...July 1961? USSR joined Nikita Kruschev at the Kremlin for a chat and a few vodkas, during which the Russian President warned him against joining France and the US in going to war over West Berlin. “Six hydrogen bombs would be quite enough to annihilate the British Isles,” he said, affably, “and nine would take care of France.”
19th: The world’s first in-flight movie, By Love Possessed, starring Lana Turner, was shown during a TWA flight; but only to its first-class passengers.
1st: At 7.45 pm in Sandringham, Norfolk, Frances Spencer gave birth to a baby girl. The child was christened Diana Frances Spencer, but the world would know her as Princess Diana, or simply Diana. 2nd: American author and journalist Ernest Hemingway rose early, without waking his wife, and took a shotgun from a cupboard. Then the Nobel prize-winner, whose talents and accomplishments would fill this page, took his own life. British Ambassador to the
8th: American defector Lee Harvey Oswald travelled to the American Embassy in Moscow to ask for the return of his passport. His wish was granted and he returned to the States. And assassinated the President. Identical triplets were born at Long Island Jewish Hospital and subsequently adopted by three separate families, each unaware of the multiple birth. The siblings met by chance in 1980 and discovered they had been the subject of a secret study into separation of identical twins and triplets by the Louise Wise Agency.
A gallon of petrol was about 4/- 10d The average cost of a house was about £2,800
Three of the bestselling singles this year were: Runaway - Del Shannon Temptation - Everly Brothers Well I ask You - Eden Kane
21st: Piloting the MercuryRedstone 4 capsule, Gus Grisson became the second American in space. During the splashdown the door opened prematurely and the capsule began flooding. He managed to swim clear but his space suit was now flooding. He was rescued by helicopter in time to disappoint a hungry shark which had been closing on the scene. Gus was killed in 1967 when the capsule of Apollo 1 caught fire. 25th: Following increasingly threatening rhetoric from the Kremlin, President Kennedy gave a speech to the nation. In it he vowed to redouble the country’s military capability and take whatever action necessary, including nuclear, to counter threats to West Berlin and the free world. 31st: IBM introduced their Selectric typewriter, or the ‘golf ball’ as it was more commonly known. Surely technology cannot advance further than this, I remember thinking when I first saw this marvel.
Hear the song from the book Rainbows, Dreams and Angels, written by Patrick D Cousins, on You Tube. Patrick Cousins’ Short Shorts is available on Kindle 6
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Carters Blog (Jul14)_Layout 1 23/06/2014 17:30 Page 1
ProPerTy mATTers from
Our PrOPErTY ExPErT
Is the bubble about to burst?... Probably! Barely a day passes without someone asking me “What’s going to happen to house prices over the next 12 months?” This is of course to be fully expected as an estate agent and I answer as I have always done for the past 25 years… “If I knew the answer to that question then I’d be a millionaire.” Of course it’s a perfectly valid question to ask and I should be in a position to answer with at least some degree of conviction based on current market trends and the general economic and political conditions.
ADrIAN DuTHIe Founder & Director, Carter Estate Agents.
2014 has seen a significant upturn in prices in Denham with many properties worth at least 10% more than they were this time last year. As I have previously written, the Help to Buy scheme introduced last year has been a major stimulus to demand and therefore prices. Indeed anybody who bought in the last 18 months is entitled to feel a little smug as they have seen an instant uplift in the value of their property. How long will this rampant house price inflation continue and is it a bubble that is about to burst?
A Brunel graduate, Adrian has lived in Hillingdon and Denham for over 30 years.
Well there are a number of factors that suggest prices have peaked and if you are thinking of selling, now might just be the right time. Consider the following:
Passionate about property he writes extensively for magazines, newspapers and on social media as well as regularly featuring on television and radio.
• Anecdotal experience of a slow-down in price rises is borne out by evidence from mortgage lenders and the web portals about both asking and sold prices. Supply is starting to catch up with demand
An independent estate agent, property developer and landlord, he has built up an unrivalled knowledge and experience of the local property market.
• New lending regulations introduced in April after the Mortgage Market Review mean that mortgage applications are now subject to tougher affordability criteria. • The Government has become nervous about house price increases, particularly in London and George Osbourne’s recent Mansion House speech means the Bank of England will have powers to cap mortgage lending. • Prices have increased beyond the previous peak of 2007 and the spectre of negative equity and resultant repossessions appears to have receded. • Interest rates are only going to increase. Interest rates have been at a record low for over 5 years now. They can only go one way. The Bank of England has hinted at it and we are likely to see increases both before and after the General Election next year. The time to buy or sell your property can often be a difficult decision, although it is mainly determined by your own individual circumstances. The expression “safe as houses” continues to ring true as most people still see the significant benefits of owning property as a long term investment. If you are in the position to decide when to sell, then maybe now is the right time. You might just feel a little smug if the bubble does indeed burst!
Adrian
If you would like a free no obligation market appraisal of your property or to speak to Adrian about selling your property, call Carters on 01895 832155 10
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The Crew Rooms FP (Jul14)_Layout 1 24/06/2014 13:07 Page 1
Situated on the edge of denham aerodrome the Crewroom is definitely not the average café.
Late breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea or just a cup of coffee (and the chance of a fly-past!)
Seated just a few yards from lines of parked aircraft you can gaze across the immaculately kept grounds to the wooded horizon; and the only traffic you are likely to see is taxiing planes or hovering helicopters.
And when it comes to the reasonably priced menu you are spoilt for choice: a glass of wine and one of their renowned pizzas, maybe? A beer and a burger, jacket potato? Or, if you’re really hungry, how about an all-day breakfast – with proper butcher’s sausages! There is a selection of toasted sandwiches and, to finish off, a choice of cakes and a cup
of their excellent illy coffee.
The Crewroom is a family business which was established in February 2009 and since then it has become a firm favourite of users of the aerodrome, local residents, and companies entertaining guests, looking for somewhere a little out of the ordinary.
The Red Arrows aerial display team sometimes passes over Denham en-route to a performance over London, and a Spitfire once flew down the runway, tilting its wings in salute (ask Ed, the proprietor). Cabaret doesn’t get any better than that! Of course, these performances cannot be guaranteed, but you never know…
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Here is a vision of the home of the future. The house’s occupants are beavering away in their high powered jobs and it is a warm and sunny day. The window blinds automatically lower themselves to keep the interior cool. The master of the house leaves the office and he uses an app on his phone. The house cranks up the air conditioning in the living area to bring down the temperature to a comfortable 22⁰C. As he turns into his road, he uses the app again. The electric gates open, the alarm is disabled and 30 seconds later the front door unlocks itself.
The man wanders into the kitchen and fixes himself a wellearned G&T. He goes into the lounge and says, “TV, Channel 4.” A mirror on the wall slides aside to reveal the television which is already switched on to the Channel 4 news. Meanwhile, his wife arrives and uses her own app. The kettle switches itself on, because she likes to have a cup of herbal tea when she gets home. That night as they are watching a film, an intruder breaks into the back garden. The doors and windows lock themselves automatically and the alarm primes itself to go off if someone enters the house. A CCTV image of the back garden replaces the film on the home cinema and all the TV screens in the house, while an email is automatically sent to the security company who dispatch a patrol. Except, this is not the home of the future, it is a townhouse in an upmarket enclave of Manchester. There is a catch, however; the owner paid over £100,000 to automate his home. All of the equipment I described is readily available at an increasingly affordable price; for instance, a kettle that you switch on remotely using an app can be yours for less than £100. Where the big money was spent was on integrating everything together which involved installing a central server and coding bespoke software, not to mention creating a customised app. Then, of course, there were kilometres of cable to be routed and cameras, servos, sensors and much more to be put in place. The good news is that you don’t need to spend a fortune to introduce some smart technology into your home. Take central heating for instance; it is much more economical to be able to turn your heating on half an hour before you get home than 16
have it on a fixed timer. Smart thermostats such as Nest go one better and actually learn your lifestyle patterns. Burglar alarms can be set and cancelled in the same way via a phone app; no need to worry about whether you set the alarm before going on holiday anymore and you can upgrade your existing panel at minimal cost. Smoke and fire alarms can automatically notify someone if they are activated while you are out of the property and electric appliances ranging from ovens to coffee percolators can be operated remotely via your phone or computer. The challenge for tech savvy homeowners will be integrating all the different devices. Nobody wants ten different apps on their phone; they’ll be turning on the TV instead of the kettle or opening the garage door instead of turning up the heating. Obviously, it is not going to be cost effective to pay a specialist to devise a bespoke system as described above, but there are several ways it could happen. One manufacturer could make lots of different devices with a common control system, but then buyers wouldn’t be able to pick and choose between devices, not ideal. Much better would be a common control app that works on any platform and the device manufacturers could make their equipment compatible with the app. This has already happened with the DLNA collaboration that allows a Samsung laptop to integrate with a Sony TV. Most tellingly, Google, the king of All Things Internet, has recently bought Nest Controls. The future is just around the corner.
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Local Parks & Events (Jul14)_Layout 1 23/06/2014 20:16 Page 1
july park EvEnts 5k Cross Country Wed 9th July, 7pm start langley Park £5.50 (members); £7.50 (non-club) on day entry +£2 last in the three-part race series. the course is one lap of scenic parkland. parking included. visit www.fabian4.co.uk for full details and registration.
Don't miss the DeaDline! If you would like us to
Local Park & Events july 18
Basicaly saxes sun 13th July, 2pm - 4pm Black Park Café Free entry (donations welcome) live music by the lakeside for your entertainment and to raise money for the Cancer research uk. refreshments available to purchase from the cafe. Dog show sat 19th July, 10.30am - 4pm langley Park £2 per class, 3 classes for £5 the popular annual show returns to langley park. there will be pedigree and novelty classes, as well as lots of stalls to browse. all in aid of the thames valley & Chiltern air ambulance. Bushcraft Walk Wed 23rd July, 2pm-5.30pm Black Pine’s Camp, £22 adult, £17 child join andy on an interactive walk to learn the secrets of the forest and uses for natural materials. Finish at Black pine’s Camp to put your new knowledge into practice. Max ratio of 1 adult to 2 children. Over 12s only. school’s out for summer! thurs 24th July to thurs 28th august, 11am-4pm Colne Valley Visitor Centre, Denham Country Park. Free Fun and games on the terrace. Every thursday during the holidays. Contact: 01895 833375. nature safari Fri 25th July, 1pm-2pm langley Park Café £4 per guide Follow the self-led trail set up by our rangers, finding the clues and learning about the animals that live here. the trail takes around an hour to complete. start any time between 1pm and 2pm.
publicise your event in our august issues
contact us no later
than monday 14th July.
Colne Valley Festival sun 27th July, 11am-4pm Colne Valley Visitor Centre, Denham Country Park some activities are free Fun for all the family with canal boat trips, face painting, crafts, games, model air planes a funfair and much more. Contact: 01895 833375 Den Building mon 28th & tues 29th July, 10am-12pm langley Park Café £16 per family, £3 per extra Have a go at building your own den in langley park with the Country park rangers. Bring a picnic along to eat in your newly built den! Fun in the Park Wed 30th July, 12pm-4pm langley Park most activities are free the hugely popular family event is back in langley park and is going to be bigger than ever. the afternoon will be fun-packed with activities including falconry displays, sword swallowing and story telling, as well as fun games, face painting and an inflatable slide. there will be plenty of food on offer including a hog roast.
july EvEnts Butterflies Vintage tea Party thurs 3rd July, from 1.30pm 110 Copthall Road West, UB10 8ht £4 on the gate Entry price includes tea, Coffee and cakes, various stalls and a raffle. all Welcome. supporting sparks, research into safer childbirth
hillingdon & Uxbridge Business Breakfast (hUBB) thurs 10th July, 8am-9am Bay lodge, 36 harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1Ph. Free event In partnership with the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce. Continental breakfast included. please rsvp emma.zovich@wardwilliams.co.uks school summer Fayre sat 12th July, 11am-2pm harefield infants school & nursery school Parade, high street, harefield, UB9 6Bt. lots of fun for all of the family, refreshments, homemade cakes and lots more. treasure island outdoor theatre sat 12th July, 6.30pm Picnics from 5pm the Courtyard, manor Farm, Ruislip. adults from £14.50, Child from £8, Family ticket from £40 performed by rain or shine theatre Company. tickets: 07806 766993.
a Vintage affair sun 13th July, 10am-1pm & 2pm-5pm michael sobell Centre, mount Vernon hospital, Gate 3, off White hill, northwood, middlesex ha6 2Rn variuos bands will be playing, tea rooms, Classic Cars, Gift stalls, rock Chorus, Dancing and more... For tickets call 01923 844730 (see main advert above)
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Short Story Wedding Bells by Jackie Brewster When her niece, Chelsea, finally decided to tie the knot, Wanda had missed out on the last room at the hotel. Cousin Bev offered her a bed for the night, and the loan of a sleeping bag. It was only when they arrived that she realised what she’d let herself in for – a night under canvas. They had the field to themselves and judging by what was left behind, it had only recently been vacated by cows. Pitching the tent had caused all kinds of arguments, making Wanda hot and irritable. The tepid shower in the farmer’s outhouse had been besieged by spiders, and the sausages Bev cooked over a gas stove had ended up covered in grass clippings. She had nowhere to hang up her wedding outfit or plug in her heated rollers. What’s more the midges had developed a taste for her. The cold crept in, after darkness fell. An owl hooted, and a fox cried out. Wanda shivered, unable to sleep. Over the sound of Bev’s contented snoring she thought she heard footsteps coming across the field. Maybe one of the cows had made an escape and was ambling blindly towards them in search of heat? The footsteps grew louder. At any moment a half tonne beast could sit on the thin tent and squash them flat. Something big tripped over a guy rope and Wanda tried not to scream. Don’t let it know
you’re in here she told herself. Wanda pulled her sleeping bag up under her chin in terror. The tent zipped open.
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Wanda let out a shriek that would have woken anyone other than Bev. A bright light shone inside. “Aunty Wanda is that you?” someone whispered loudly. “Who’s there?” Wanda cried, blinded by the light. “It’s me, Chelsea”. Her niece climbed awkwardly inside. “What are you up to?” Wanda snapped, “You frightened me out of my skin”. “Sorry Aunty, I needed to talk”. The girl shivered, “I’m getting cold feet”. “Well I’m cold all over but you don’t hear me complaining”. Wanda grumbled, then realised what Chelsea was saying. None of this surprised her, even as a baby Chelsea couldn’t make up her mind which thumb to suck. It was Wanda’s job to save this wedding. “What’s troubling you honey?” she asked soothingly. “I want to get married”, Chelsea frowned, “But I hate being the centre of attention, it terrifies me”. “My dear girl”, Wanda took her hand, “No one’s going to even notice you, all eyes will be on me”. She laughed, “I’ll be covered in midge bites and grass clippings, wearing a
crumpled outfit. Everyone will say “Just look what the cat dragged in!”” Chelsea grinned, and Wanda seized her moment, “Honestly honey, do you think I’d be sleeping in a tent with Bev here”, Bev snored loudly to make her presence felt, “If I didn’t think you were doing the right thing? You’re going to be a wonderful bride, trust me”. Chelsea seemed reassured, “Thanks Aunty Wanda”. “Now get going, and watch your step, otherwise you’re going to smell like a farmyard on your big day”. Chelsea kissed Wanda on the forehead and slipped out of the tent. Wanda listened as her niece stumbled away across the field, and her eyes became heavy. She woke to the warm sun brightening the tent. She had survived her night under canvas, and in the distance she could hear the peel of church bells. And because she had slept in her wedding outfit she was dressed to go.
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The rspca are now struggling with the amount of kittens in our care over 40 kittens ranging from 9 weeks to 5 months have been left at the homing centre either abandoned or unwanted. They are now hoping to find their forever home where they will be loved and cared for. All our kittens will have their full vaccinations and be flea and worm treated, microchipped, spayed (when old enough) and have 4 weeks insurance cover. If you are thinking of having a kitten then please come to the rspca first, as for many of these little guys it is their last chance to find a home. Please give us a ring on 01895 833417 or visit our website www.rspcahillingdonclinic.org.uk to download an application form. To help us stop this amount of kittens being left with nowhere to go, we urge you to get your cat neutered. The RSPCA Hillingdon, Slough, Windsor, Kingston, District Branch always want to help people with neutering so if you have a unneutered cat please ring 01895 231435 an b o o k y o u r appointment. 22
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Finance How to Deal Effectively with Debt By Ann Haldon www.cornerstonewebcontent.com They also provide their services via email, the internet and telephone if preferred. An excellent online source of information is the StepChange Debt Charity, which you may know under its former title of the Consumer Credit Counselling Service. They provide information and advice about all aspects of debt, including tips to avoid it, dealing with it effectively, and what to do if you are overwhelmed by money worries.
amount and type of debt concerned. There are ways to quickly reduce household expenses and interest charges though, so think about switching your energy supplier if you aren’t locked into a deal, and move all credit card debt onto a 0% or low interest card if you can. Below are some easy things to do that will help gain control over your finances: • Make a detailed list of all household income and expenditure, including items such as birthday and Christmas presents • Cancel all unnecessary direct debits and standing orders, and cut back on nonessential spending • Once your outgoings have been reduced or consolidated, make a strict budget to include basic household and living costs • Consider keeping only one credit card, which should be used purely for emergencies
During the year to September 2013, Citizens Advice Bureaux in England and Wales dealt with 7,015 new debt problems every working day. This is the rather startling figure issued by financial capability organisation, The Money Charity, and it illustrates just how people in the UK are struggling to keep on top of money issues.
Where to go for reliable advice The internet provides a valuable source of information and advice on debt and how to deal with it, but sometimes it can be more reassuring to sit down with a financial expert and let them explain the solutions available to you in person. The Citizens Advice service is the obvious choice for debt help, with over 3,300 bureaux around England and Wales. The charity offers free independent advice to all, in confidence, at high street locations including dedicated offices, doctors’ surgeries, courts, and even prisons. 24
Reasons for getting into debt
StepChange states that “Overspending is not the main cause of debt problems” and accounts for only 10% of the cases they deal with. So what are the main causes? Well, they could occur for a number of reasons: • Unexpected redundancy, job loss or reduced hours • A life event, such as divorce or separation • Injury or illness • Reduced income • Failure to budget effectively In recent years, job losses and redundancies have accounted for many of the debt problems in this country. The loss of income may have been sudden, and coupled with spiralling living costs, debt can become unavoidable.
What are the best ways to tackle debt? This largely depends on the
But what if it’s already too late? There are actions you can take as a last resort, such as Individual Voluntary Arrangements, Administration Orders, or declaring bankruptcy. These are all big steps, however, and you need to take professional advice before making such a decision. An important consideration in all this is choosing the right people to help you. You need to approach a charity or other non-profit organisation with counsellors who are paid to help you, rather than make money from you.
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By Ted Bruning Ahhh, it’s sunny July at last; the sky is blue; the air is warm and your neighbourhood smells delightfully of sun-tan lotion and barbecue.
big surprise – was August with 91.6mm, then September with 77.1mm, and taking gold by a healthy margin, was June with only 50.5mm. Mind you, June 2012 was also the rainiest Of course, being British, we month of all five summers in understand that our summers the sample with a squelching are never a glorious succession 157.8mm, and the two biggest of hot dry days and long Departures: 15 & 21 September, 2 October 2014 flash floods in rain-induced evenings of tennis and Pimms. 13 April, 15 May, 19 & 25 September, 1living October 2015 in memory weren’t in July Indeed, it has even been but August – Lynmouth in 1952 known to rain sometimes. But and Boscastle in 2004. This, let’s forget about the weather of course, being the difference for a moment and focus on between weather and climate. the climate – the difference
average high just missing at 23.1C; so not much in it there. June and September, though, fall woefully short with ranges of 11.8-21C and 11.4-20C – it’s almost as if they aren’t even trying.
All this, of course, depends on where you are. The further north you go the colder it gets, right? Well, yes; but not directly because you’re north – England has vineyards at the same latitude that Canada has polar bears. The skies above us are being that the weather is what All right then, which is the a battleground where four sets actually happens to you, by while Escorted the best Holiday of weatherby fightRail for supremacy: Escorted Holiday Rail sunniest, i.e. which has the climate is what weather average of sunny hours per day Western Scotland gets its from 5 September, 2014 Quote AZ9-IA Quote FR/RF-IA becomes when people start (which we shall call SHPD for the Maritime Polar region (cold analyzing the sake of brevity)? This Eastern Scotland This super it. holiday, taking in the French and Italian Comeone with us and on awet); charming break takingand in the to Pancras’ be July, right? spectacular Uh-uh. Zundert Flower andget Antwerp. the North ofParade England theirs The Rivieras, with a isglass at St The otherstarts difference thatof bubblyhas up of breathtaking entirely The average parade for Julyis madefrom the Continentaldisplays Polar (cold climate almost predictable famous is Champagne Bar before taking an 10-year afternoon created by volunteers using dahlias - the largest of its is 6 SHPD, better than August and dry); Wales and the West but weather most certainly Eurostar to Lille or Paris. After an overnight stay, we kind in the world. Many ofare them are animated, at 5.5 SHPD and September Country at the mercy of giving the a isn’t. The by wedding planners, continue TGV train to Nice then coach to Diano truly realistic appearance. town is also renowned as (when of course the days Maritime The Tropical (warm and barbecue chefs, church fête Marina. Enjoy free drinks every night at theshorter hotel and birth5 place of Vincent Gogh. Antwerp, Belgium’s theonly are anyway) at wet); andVan East Anglia and the organisers etcetera want to excursions to Monaco, Eze, Portofino and Dolceacqua. biggest South city, is our base for bask this break SHPD; but the winnersecond is once of England in theand is a know when is the best time for true architectural wonder. again June with 6.9 SHPD. Continental Tropical (warm and the wedding/barbecue/fête/ INCLUDED: Escorted throughout • Champagne rackedPrice up includes: an dry). Hence the hottest day on from Escorted throughout • Return rail travel day-trip orLondon whatever? But •the Check-in at St Pancras Return rail Still, travel July from 2013 St average of 8.2 SHPD,London whichStisPancrasrecord was •10th August 2003 best answer andhotel it’s aB&B truly to Antwerp 3 nights B&B stay at ain 3-star Pancras to Niceis • 1–night in Paris or Lille a record in recent years. Faversham, Kent (38.5C), while British answer, this – none of hotel in Antwerp • Excursion to Zundert Flower Parade • 6 nights in Diano Marina - half board plus selected free the coldest was 30th December them. And any of them. July is, at least, the warmest including reserved seating • Transfers fromSutherland station to hotel drinks 6pm to 11pm every night 1995 at Altnaharran, month of summer, with average So let’s narrow it down. Which on arrival and departure • Excursions & transfers abroad (-27.2C). temperatures ranging from is usually the least rainy month 13.7-23.4C over the past 20 Well, that’s me decided, then. of summer? It has to be July, years; but only just. August has This GN year’sVoyages barbecues will be surely. Wrong! July is usually been a close challenger, with in Faversham. Which is handy, the wettest, actually, with an ABTA where No. Y0291 to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays. GN101mm Holidays over & Voyages an9am average low just edging because that’s my Mum average of the five Open ATOL 9362 www. gnvoyages.co.uk Email: info@gnvoyages.co.uk Higher Denham, Uxbridge UB9 5EL ahead of July’s •at 13.8C but an lives. years 2008-12. Then – another
Riviera of Flowers Monaco & Portofino
Zundert Flower Parade & Antwerp
Call 01895 83 33 33
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Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough Buckingham Palace & Tea on the Thames
GREAT £89 DAY OUT
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Wednesday 30 July, 2014 - Quote BP7-IA INCLUDED: Admission to Buckingham Palace Gardens & State Rooms • Afternoon Tea on the Yacht London, moored on the Thames near Waterloo Bridge • Return coach travel
The Great Dorset Steam Fair GREAT DAY OUT
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Tenby & Bath 3 DAYS HALF BOARD
£ pp DEPOSIT
£159PP
Friday 22 August, 2014 - Quote GW8-IA INCLUDED: 2 nights stay at the Park Inn Hotel, Cardiff • 2 dinners and 2 breakfasts • Visits to Bath and Tenby • Coach travel and excursions
Babbacombe & Cruise to Hidden Cornwall
£59PP
5 DAYS HALF BOARD
£299PP
Thurs 28 August, 2014 - Quote DS8-IA
Mon 1 Sept, 2014 - Quote SE9-IA
INCLUDED: Visit to the Great Dorset Steam Fair the UK’s biggest display of steam traction engines now in its 46th year at Blandford Forum • Return coach travel
INCLUDED: 4 nights at the Seabury Hotel in Babbacombe • 4 breakfasts and 4 dinners • Visits to: Kingsand/Cawsand by ferry from Plymouth; Sidmouth; Torquay and Torbay • Entertainment on some nights of your stay • Coach travel and excursions
Highgrove - Prince of Wales Private Garden & Lunch
4-star Spectacular Northumberland & Holy Island 5 DAYS HALF BOARD
£329PP
10
£ pp DEPOSIT
GREAT DAY OUT
£89PP
Monday 8 Sept, 2014 - Quote NF9-IA
Thurs 11 Sept, 2013 - Quote HG7-IA
INCLUDED: 4 nights stay at the 4-star Marriott hotel, Gosforth Park • 4 dinners & 4 breakfasts • Visits to Holy Island, Berwick & Newcastle • Optional visit to Alnwick Castle & Gardens • Return coach travel
INCLUDED: 2-hour guided tour of Prince Charles’ gardens at Highgrove • 2-course lunch at The Hare & Hounds, Tetbury • Return coach travel
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
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Inle Lake Myanmar
By Solange Hando
Deep in central Myanmar (formerly Burma), Inle, ‘the blue sea in the Shan hills’, is a truly magical place glistening at nearly 3000 feet in the first foothills of the Himalaya. Stretching for 11 miles and crisscrossed by myriad channels, it’s unlike anywhere else in the country, a cool escape for visitors who relax in luxurious floating hotels and a lifeline for the locals who toil in villages perched on stilts above the water. Rice and sugar cane glow all shades of green on the banks but for the Inthar people, the lake is the soul of the community. From morning to night, lonely fishermen ply the waters, standing as still as herons in their tiny skiffs, rowing with one leg now and then so they can cast and pull the net with both hands. Placid or choppy at times, the lake is a bustling highway where tourists in long-tail boats bounce in showers of spray, children paddle their canoes to school, red-robed monks make their way to secluded shrines and women sheltering under conical hats head for the floating market to sell beads and T-shirts to visitors or fresh vegetables to the locals. 30
For it isn’t just the fishermen who make good use of the lake. The hard working Inthar produce much of their food in ingenious floating gardens which they build with silt and weeds. Anchored deep down, long bamboo poles keep the allotments in place but they can be moved around, extended, strengthened with an extra layer, and best of all, there’s no need to worry about watering crops. All sorts of vegetables and fruit are grown on the lake but the small Inle tomatoes are said to be the sweetest anywhere and come spring or summer, great swathes of flowers bloom on the water. Meanwhile, a housewife scrubs her laundry on a rickety pontoon, children shampoo their hair at the water’s edge and a buffalo waits for its turn to have a bath. Huts and gardens mingle their reflections in shimmering colours, framed by the blue and purple hills silhouetted against the sky. All is quiet but no one is idle. Every village hides a sprinkling of workshops where cottage industries have long flourished, handed down through generations. Spinning, weaving, painting paper umbrellas, crafting silver bowls
and figurines, clay ornaments and pots, it’s a hive of activity but pride of place goes to extracting and weaving silk from lotus fibre. A hundred years ago, according to legend, a girl offering a lotus bloom to the Buddha began to weave the thread trailing from the stem to make a robe for the local Abbot. Today, highly valued and unique to Myanmar, lotus silk is woven into luxury items as well as monks’ robes and drapes for precious statues. The people of the lake are devout Buddhists and many shrines and pagodas peep along the shore, the most important being the glittering Hpaung Daw Oo with its stepped roofs and golden dome mirrored in the water. Devotees have covered the Buddha images with so much gold leaf you can no longer see their shape but once a year at festival time, they are gloriously paraded all around the lake on a magnificent golden barge resembling a holy bird. There are devotions and prayers, legrowing races and traditional dancing and for a few days, Inle comes into its own as one of the most colourful places in the land.
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For readers of a certain age, the news media have been playing a familiar tune over the past few months. It is a particularly British character trait which means that the subject of house prices is always guaranteed to capture our attention, and can normally be relied upon to start a lively discussion. Since the late 1960’s house prices have, by and large, shown increases which have outstripped inflation. As a result, prewar babies and the boomer generation have often been able to supplement their dwindling pension returns by downsizing to a smaller house in retirement, or alternatively by using equity release. Over the past couple of years it has appeared that lenders have managed to put the nasty shock of the 2008 Credit Crunch behind them, and they have started to believe that they should perhaps, after all, consider lending once again. With interest rates at temporary “emergency” low levels for the last five years, it is perhaps not too surprising that house prices have started to take off, once again. This move has been led by the London market, where a steady influx of the affluent from all corners of the globe has seemingly insulated the property market from any economic factors that might be influencing the rest of the country. Certainly in the rest of the Home Counties, however, we have seen some similarly rapid gains in prices. Warning bells are ringing, however. The Bank of England, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and even the IMF have issued warnings in recent weeks about the state of the UK housing market, and the risks that a “bubble” would bring. The Chancellor and the BOE Governor have been unambiguous in warning that the market should not be allowed to gain a runaway momentum, and we have been put on notice that interest rates may have to rise earlier rather than later, if the economic news continues to look promising. The IMF spokesman managed to get in on the act by combining an apology about their earlier incorrect warnings about the state of the UK economy with a warning about the property market. The irony is that the Financial Conduct Authority, the recent successor to the Financial services Authority, might have solved the problem for them. 32
As an adviser in the mortgage area I am only too familiar with these two bodies. As a general rule, they seem to feel that a month without a new initiative is a month wasted, and readers may be aware that a new raft of regulation (known as the Mortgage Market Review) has recently landed on our collective doormats. The background to this regulation is eminently sensible. With interest rates at these low levels, it is pretty obvious that they can only really move in one direction. Similarly, if the economic data continues to show solid levels of activity, interest rates might well move pretty quickly. Lenders are now being encouraged, therefore, to ensure as far as possible that borrowers will be able to manage mortgage payments at higher level of interest rates. As with all new regulatory frameworks, the organisations being regulated are determined not to be the first to slip up. Nowadays, lenders all use a version of an Affordability Calculator when they assess the amount that they can lend to a prospective borrower, rather than the more traditional income multiples. This takes into account the borrower’s expenditure, and in particular their nondiscretionary spending (pension contributions, insurance etc). Now, however, it seems that borrowers are required to give much more information to accompany a loan application. As a direct result, these Affordability Calculators are suddenly producing much lower figures in terms of maximum borrowings. As an example, I have just spent a few days trying to source a mortgage of 3.5 times income for a lady, without success. Worse than that, the calculators would sometimes change their lending figure after an initial decision and one lender in particular bravely offered her a loan of 1.5 times income as a maximum. In today’s market, where young housebuyers, particularly in the Home Counties, will normally need to borrow large amounts to complete a purchase, these new restrictions will undoubtedly take the heat out of prices. I know that people with savings will welcome any rise in interest rates, but the housing market does provide a huge contribution to the UK GNP (not to mention the Stamp Duty revenue to HMRC) and any downturn could have a detrimental knockon effect to the economy. Just for the moment, however, I feel that they might have thrown the baby out with the bath water. It looks as if we could be back to the old days, where you could only borrow money if you could prove beyond doubt that you didn’t need to.....
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Cake
and Bake
Peach Gallette This divine summer dessert just couldn’t be easier to make – no flan tin and no baking blind! Make sure you have a good solid baking sheet to bake the galette on as this will ensure a crisp pastry base. You can replace the fresh peaches with drained canned peaches, if liked.
Ingredients: • • • • • • • • •
225g plain flour, plus extra for dusting 150g unsalted butter, diced 100g ground almonds 4 tbsp caster sugar, plus extra for sprinkling 2 large egg yolks blended with 2 tbsp ice cold water 6 large fresh, ripe peaches, skinned, stoned and sliced Beaten egg, to glaze 1 tbsp pistachio nuts, chopped Vanilla ice cream, to serve
TIP
To skin peaches, score a cross in the skin with the tip of a knife then cover with boiling water for 1-2 minutes. Drain and cover with cold water for a further minute – the skins should peel off easily.
Serves 6 - Ready in 50 minutes plus chilling 34
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To make the pastry, sift the flour into a large bowl. Add the butter and using your fingertips rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in half the ground almonds and half the sugar. Make a well in the centre and add the egg yolks and water. Stir with a round-bladed knife to form a crumbly dough (add a little extra cold water if the mix is too dry). Gather the mixture together with your hands and knead gently until just smooth. Wrap the pastry in cling film and chill in the fridge for about 40 minutes. Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas mark 6. Lightly grease a large baking sheet. Roll the pastry out on a lightly floured surface to a rough circle about 30cm in diameter. Transfer to the baking sheet. Sprinkle the rest of the ground almonds in the centre of the pastry circle, leaving a 7cm border. Arrange the peach slices on top of the almonds. Fold the pastry border inwards – just over the edges of the peach slices. Brush the pastry edge with beaten egg and sprinkle over the chopped pistachios. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is crisp and golden. Sprinkle over the rest of the sugar and serve warm or cold with scoops of vanilla ice cream.
...with Hillingdon Narrrowboats Association We offer affordable narrowboating and training for Youth and Community groups of all ages and abilities.
At HNA, we like to combine the enjoyment of cruising with practical learning about our boats and how to operate them. You'll learn about some of the history of the canal, as well as seeing the local wildlife in abundance. Teambuilding for all...
We operate five 72 foot long craft which can be hired for four hours or longer, including residential trips, to allow you to enjoy cruising along the Grand Union Canal from our base in Harefield.
Narrowboating is great to help develop new skills, team building, and improves social awareness and confidence around others. We can even introduce a competitive element to challenge teams if two boats are taken together!
Canals have over 200 years of history...
We offer various training courses, and qualifications for all, from Competent Crew right up to a Certificate in Community Boat Management and the Under 18s Community Boat Leadership Project. Take a look at our website www.hna.org.uk and find our more about your local charity, and see what we do. If you're part of a youth group, school, care home, or are working with Scouts, Guides, Cadets - to name just a few - we'd love to talk to you to show what we can offer.
Hillingdon Narrowboats Association Email: bookings@mail.hna.org.uk Call: 01895 823 582 or 07860 857 877 Web: www.hna.org.uk Registered with the Charities Commission No 1029007. Registered Company 2615065
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www.denture-world.co.uk
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rd
On 23 May, three weeks of frantic work by anti HS2 campaigners from all over the country produced a highly satisfactory return of nearly 2,000 petitions – each of them photocopied three times, signed and stapled in the right places, and accompanied by a £20 fee. The petitioners included County Councils and cricket clubs, residents associations and small businesses, adults and schoolchildren – all of them outlining their suggestions of how the plans for the first phase of the highspeed train could be changed for the better; how HS2’s impact on the people and places who might have to live with it could be lessened. The petitioners include the Archbishop of Canterbury, Nick Hurd a junior government minister and MP for Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner and even the managers of the Channel tunnel rail link (HS1), who would face eviction from their headquarters in London if HS2 Ltd’s existing plans go through.HS1 versus HS2 is a bruising contest for which we should all demand ringside seats. It’s a pleasure to report that residents, businesses and community groups in and around Denham and Harefield submitted a raft of petitions containing devastating criticisms of HS2’s plans for the Colne Valley, which faces the prospect of being permanently degraded by a dismal collection of construction camps, storage areas, electricity substations, spoil deposits and all the rest of the gubbins needed to build a new railway line. Unsurprisingly, almost every local petitioner advocated a tunnel under the Colne valley rather than a viaduct across it. So, what do the 1,925 petitioners get in return for the £38,500 they’ve paid the government for the ‘privilege’ of submitting their objections? All those petitioners who persuade the specially formed Select Committee of MPs that they’re likely to be directly affected by HS2 will have the right to appear before the committee, or appoint an agent in their place. Early indications are that the committee, which will start work in Birmingham, will focus on our area in mid2015, around the time of the General Election next May. During the election period all unfinished government business is suspended, and if there’s a change of government some of it is abandoned. However, the HS2 ‘Hybrid’ Bill is protected from the political ebb and flow, and the Select 38
Committee (consisting of three Conservative MPs, two Labour and one LibDem) will resume their duties in June 2015, assuming that none of them has been kicked out by the voters in May! Petitioners who are given the right to appear before the Select Committee at Portcullis House, across the road from Big Ben, will be given four weeks’ notice before being called, with councils in each area going first, followed by community groups, businesses and individuals. Hearings will take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. On some of their days off, the Select Committee will carry out site visits (which petitioners can attend) starting in Birmingham and Lichfield on 15th July. The Colne Valley is bound to be visited more than once, and in the months ahead we’ll try to keep you posted about when and where these visits take place. In the meantime, HS2 Ltd will be progressing with their own plans and making amendments where they feel there’s room for improvement. Anyone directly affected by these design changes will have the chance to submit a further petition, which could substantially increase the length of the petitioning period. How long the whole process will take is anyone’s guess, but based on the two similar Hybrid Bills – for the Channel tunnel link and Crossrail – we’re estimating between 18 months and two years. There’s still a long way to go before anyone even thinks of putting a shovel into our precious countryside to build a railway that less than a third of the electorate actually want, and even fewer will ever use. If you feel strongly about HS2 and its possible effects on the Colne Valley, please write to our MP, Dominic Grieve, either online at , or by letter to his office at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA. You can also ask for an appointment at one of his Friday surgeries at his constituency office in Beaconsfield. In a recent reply to a constituent, Mr Grieve said that the correspondence he’d received about HS2 waslower than he had anticipated, which suggested that it was not an especially burning issue for the people of Denham and the surrounding area. It is crucial that we demonstrate to him that the very opposite is true.
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Have a Healthy Holiday By Alison Runham
www.alison.runham.co.uk
You’ve booked your holiday. You’re dreaming you’re already there, sunbathing, sightseeing and relaxing. But health issues could turn it into a nightmare. Holidaying in the UK If you’re holidaying in the UK, everything is familiar, but still arrange travel insurance in case an accident or illness means your holiday is cancelled. If you’re going off the beaten track or hill climbing, check the weather forecast, wear appropriate footwear and take your mobile (fully charged), warm waterproof clothing, a first aid kit and a map. Ensure everyone knows the route and remember you’ll be slower over rough terrain. Many fatalities are caused by ignoring these precautions. Check your chosen beach is safe for swimming, with no concealed rocks or dangerous sea creatures (there’s a useful guide to them here: http://bit. ly/1m9uFYJ).
Holidaying Abroad Several weeks beforehand, read guidebooks, travel company information and specific precautions for your destination at http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk. Ensure you’re aware of: • Air travel health and safety Newborn babies, women over 36 weeks pregnant (32 weeks in multiple pregnancy), or people who have recently had a stroke, heart attack, surgery or trauma shouldn’t fly, nor should those with a communicable disease or 42
certain conditions affecting the ears, chest, head or cardiovascular system. See your doctor and check insurance t&cs. The air inside aeroplanes is very dry, so stay hydrated and avoid alcohol, (altitude increases its effects). Ask your doctor’s advice if you’re concerned about DVT (deep vein thrombosis) or you’ve given birth in the last two months. Reduce the risk of DVT by walking, stretching, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and keeping well hydrated. Compression stockings can help if worn correctly. • Local laws and customs Beware different traffic signals and different laws particularly about standards of dress. • Food and water safety Practice good hygiene and pack sanitizer gel or wipes. If you’re unsure of water safety, boil it or treat it with purification tablets, or use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. Avoid ice cubes. Choose well-cooked, freshly prepared food and avoid salads, shellfish, unpeeled fruit and ice-cream (unless it’s a major brand). • Health precautions If there’s a malaria risk don’t take it lightly. Use repellents on exposed skin and repellents and/or insecticides around your room and on mosquito screens and clothing (mosquitoes may bite through it). Wear long trousers and long-sleeved tops, particularly after dark. Anti-malarial tablets
•
•
•
•
must be started before you go and continued after you return. Take a supply of diarrhoea medication so it’s close by if needed. Vaccinations Again, requirements depend on destination – check specific guidelines at http://www. fitfortravel.nhs.uk at least 8 weeks before travel as some vaccinations are in several doses. Carry proof of vaccinations; some countries require an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP). Hepatitis A, cholera, typhoid and DTP (diphtheria, tetanus and polio) should be free, but you’ll pay for yellow fever, encephalitis, meningitis, rabies, tuberculosis and hepatitis B. Rules about prescribed medication Take a copy of your prescription and a doctor’s letter including personal details, travel dates and medication details. Healthcare entitlements If you’re travelling to Switzerland or a country in the European Economic Area (EEA), apply for an EHIC (European Health Insurance) card entitling you to healthcare equivalent to that provided for residents. Outside the EEA, medical care must be covered by your insurance. Sun Protection Wear a hat and sunglasses, avoid midday sun, stay hydrated and apply high factor sun lotion regularly.
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In and Around Reader Travel 8 DAYS SEMI ALL INCLUSIVE FROM
£799pp
Excursions included
Free Drinks & Champagne check-in
4 DAYS
£369pp
W I G Y W
T D S Departures: 15 & 21 September, 2 October 2014 13 April, 15 May, 19 & 25 September, 1 October 2015
Riviera of Flowers Monaco & Portofino
Zundert Flower Parade & Antwerp
Escorted Holiday by Rail
Escorted Holiday by Rail
Quote FR/RF-IA
5 September, 2014 - Quote AZ9-IA
This super holiday, taking in the French and Italian Rivieras, starts with a glass of bubbly at St Pancras’ famous Champagne Bar before taking an afternoon Eurostar to Lille or Paris. After an overnight stay, we continue by TGV train to Nice then coach to Diano Marina. Enjoy free drinks every night at the hotel and excursions to Monaco, Eze, Portofino and Dolceacqua.
Come with us on a charming break taking in the spectacular Zundert Flower Parade and Antwerp. The parade is made up of breathtaking displays entirely created by volunteers using dahlias - the largest of its kind in the world. Many of them are animated, giving a truly realistic appearance. The town is also renowned as the birth place of Vincent Van Gogh. Antwerp, Belgium’s second biggest city, is our base for this break and is a true architectural wonder.
INCLUDED: Escorted throughout • Champagne Check-in at London St Pancras • Return rail travel from St Pancras to Nice • 1 night hotel B&B in Paris or Lille • 6 nights in Diano Marina - half board plus selected free drinks 6pm to 11pm every night • Excursions & transfers abroad
Price includes: Escorted throughout • Return rail travel from London St Pancras to Antwerp • 3 nights B&B stay at a 3-star hotel in Antwerp • Excursion to Zundert Flower Parade including reserved seating • Transfers from station to hotel on arrival and departure
Call 01895 83 33 33 GN Voyages Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays. GN Holidays & Voyages www. gnvoyages.co.uk • Email: info@gnvoyages.co.uk Higher Denham, Uxbridge UB9 5EL
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ABTA No. Y0291 ATOL 9362
Th
IN th no co
M
I G H A
C
Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough Buckingham Palace & Tea on the Thames
GREAT £89 DAY OUT
g
e
e e y ts a as ’s a
m
ar
e
el
PP
Wednesday 30 July, 2014 - Quote BP7-IA INCLUDED: Admission to Buckingham Palace Gardens & State Rooms • Afternoon Tea on the Yacht London, moored on the Thames near Waterloo Bridge • Return coach travel
The Great Dorset Steam Fair GREAT DAY OUT
10
Tenby & Bath 3 DAYS HALF BOARD
£ pp DEPOSIT
£159PP
Friday 22 August, 2014 - Quote GW8-IA INCLUDED: 2 nights stay at the Park Inn Hotel, Cardiff • 2 dinners and 2 breakfasts • Visits to Bath and Tenby • Coach travel and excursions
Babbacombe & Cruise to Hidden Cornwall
£59PP
5 DAYS HALF BOARD
£299PP
Thurs 28 August, 2014 - Quote DS8-IA
Mon 1 Sept, 2014 - Quote SE9-IA
INCLUDED: Visit to the Great Dorset Steam Fair the UK’s biggest display of steam traction engines now in its 46th year at Blandford Forum • Return coach travel
INCLUDED: 4 nights at the Seabury Hotel in Babbacombe • 4 breakfasts and 4 dinners • Visits to: Kingsand/Cawsand by ferry from Plymouth; Sidmouth; Torquay and Torbay • Entertainment on some nights of your stay • Coach travel and excursions
Highgrove - Prince of Wales Private Garden & Lunch
4-star Spectacular Northumberland & Holy Island 5 DAYS HALF BOARD
£329PP
10
£ pp DEPOSIT
GREAT DAY OUT
£89PP
Monday 8 Sept, 2014 - Quote NF9-IA
Thurs 11 Sept, 2013 - Quote HG7-IA
INCLUDED: 4 nights stay at the 4-star Marriott hotel, Gosforth Park • 4 dinners & 4 breakfasts • Visits to Holy Island, Berwick & Newcastle • Optional visit to Alnwick Castle & Gardens • Return coach travel
INCLUDED: 2-hour guided tour of Prince Charles’ gardens at Highgrove • 2-course lunch at The Hare & Hounds, Tetbury • Return coach travel
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
45
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The Mercedes C Class can trace its lineage back to 1982 and the launch of the 190. It has always been a solidly built, prestigious and comfortable midsize saloon and it has always been a solid, if unspec tacular, seller. Unfortunately, it has also long had a problem: compared to the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 it has always been the plain and slightly boring sister, the one that will make a good wife but never gets to date the captain of the football team. Can this all new version do anything to address that?
Inside, the big story is all about the touch pad controller (standard on all models) and the exciting graphics that ap pear on the centrally mounted 7 inch screen. For me, the sublimely comfortable seats, the quality of materials and the impeccable fit and finish are a bigger deal, but Mercedes wants to emphasise the tech nology which is comprehensive and hugely impressive, particu larly the collision avoidance system which automatically brakes the car if it thinks it is going to hit something.
It is immediately obvious that the C Class is not trying to beat the 3 Series at its own game, it is playing to its own traditional strengths. Take the styling; long and sleek with deeply sculpted side panels and a shapely front end, it looks like a scaled down S Class – hand some rather than overtly pretty. There’s lots of aluminium in the new body panels which means that, despite being larger than the outgoing model, it is con siderably lighter. But Mercedes hasn’t used this weight saving to make the C Class more agile; instead it is more eco nomical. It is the same story with the new 2.1 litre diesel engines, badged 220 Bluetec and 250 Bluetec. They are significantly more powerful than before but Mercedes isn’t talking about performance, it is all about greater refinement and economy.
Unusually, I was driving a high spec car with plenty of options including air suspension and a 7 speed automatic gearbox. The 2.1 litre diesel produces a weighty 202bhp but is most impressive for its effortless torque; linked to the smooth shifting auto, it holds onto the higher gears and is beautifully refined at speed. This is a fast car, hitting 62mph in a little over 6 seconds and capable of topping 150, but it still man ages over 70mpg – take that BMW! The air suspension is a revelation, well worth every penny of the £895 upgrade cost. The ride comfort is aston ishingly good, far better than anything I have ever experi enced in this class of car. It goes over even quite large bumps as if they just don’t exist, yet there is no wallowing and minimal body roll. The handling is extremely com
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posed too; it won’t make you feel like a racing driver but you can carry a huge amount of speed through a corner in un ruffled calm, even if you lift off mid bend. Whether you buy a C Class depends very much on what you are looking for in a car. It can’t match the driving dynam ics of a three series and it is not as good looking as an A4,nor is it such a complete all rounder as the BMW. However, it is laden with world beating technology, has very strong performance coupled with quite astonishing fuel economy and, most importantly for many, it is supremely comfortable. There is also the solid build quality and that perceived sense of prestige that is so much a Mer cedes hallmark. For me, though, the greatest selling point is the feeling of under stated class that comes with this car. That is something that BMW and Audi cannot match; they are too ubiquitous, too commonplace. They may be very good but they are not special and that is what you want when you spend over £30,000 on a car, something a bit special.
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A more caring approach to care at home. With EdenCare there is.
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The Wildlife Zone...FP (Jul14)_Layout 1 23/06/2014 19:29 Page 1
The wildlife zone
The brighTesT crow 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. A juvenile Greenfinch
Back at Millstream Fork: Jay
The most beautiful member of the crow family had been absent from the Millstream Fork wildlife garden for over 25 years. So why do we now see it regularly? I’ve analysed the most important underlying factors and specific local conditions to see what could be responsible. was one of the reasons because Jays are common in woodland areas? This seemed to be one of the contributing factors on the first occasion when one dramatically appeared from the thicket on the opposite side of the millstream. over the years I have experienced many dull thuds on the window so that I know that when I hear this that a bird may well have smashed against it and could be in trouble. This is exactly what happened in early Summer when a fledgling Greenfinch flew into the patio doors unaware of the impenetrable glass in its way. I have learned that I must protect these birds in these perilous situations. I calmly unlocked the doors, stepped onto the patio and bent down to pick up the prostrate bird which lay completely still in a state-of-shock. As I did so, in the corner of my eye I noticed a flash from the bottom of the garden. Being in the moment I collected myself and focussed on the streaking object. At first I saw a pink coloured bird zooming towards me from the deep green trees. It soon became obvious that I had startled and caught it unawares – which is exactly what it had done to me as well! As the large bird crossed the lawn, it slowed down, flew upwards a few inches, turned around in mid-air and returned to the same branch from where it had dramatically launched itself, only seconds before. As it darted back I noticed that it had a white rump which was in stark contrast to all of the colours that I glimpsed when it gymnastically spun around on its axis. I was shocked by this large gyrating avian and carefully followed the bird as it flew back to the safety of the thicket. I then continued to track it flitting from one branch to another. I soon identified the bird as a Jay, a member of the crow family because of its unmistakeable markings which allow them to be instantly recognised by regular birders. It is a mediumsized bird with a black and white crown, a black moustache on a white face, a pink-brownish back, and a large blue flash on its multi-coloured wings. whilst this was a momentary distraction from my original purpose I still had the presence of mind to pick up the poor Greenfinch within seconds. Fortunately its gape was open which meant that it was still alive, but in shock; a good indication that the bird would survive. As soon as I protectively held the Greenfinch I sat down and prepared myself for the estimated twenty minute wait for it to recover and fly away. As the time passed, I studied its colours and intricate patterns of feathers on its wings, body and head. The filaments of every feather are grown to suit at least three purposes. They are extremely delicate but are designed to allow the birds to be light enough to fly, keep it dry and warm, and have the exact colour patterns for its sex and species. I sat there deep in wonder about how such a small animal could grow so many of these amazing and functional features. As I continued to nurture the fledgling I also considered the drama which had enveloped me. It became obvious that the marauding Jay had seen the Greenfinch’s moment of vulnerability and was on the prowl to grab an easy meal. By coincidence I had unwittingly interrupted the Jay’s scavenging opportunism. I mulled this over and felt happy that I had intercepted the hunting Jay from killing the juvenile Greenfinch whose full life lay ahead of it. But I was also aware that my values were human ones and victim sympathetic; however the world of nature does not care about wildlife with a human perspective. The earth’s natural systems remain objective and hard wired to allow happenstance, coincidence and circumstances to develop without omniscient interference. Perhaps the Jay was hunting to feed chicks back in its nest, and that the juvenile Greenfinch was seen as normal food supply. If this is the case it can be argued that my appearance had prevented the chicks from having a decent meal which they needed to grow and eventually leave the nest. Soon the Greenfinch emerged from its state of shock and instantly disappeared into the nearby bushes, never to be seen again. Since that day Jays have regularly returned to the wildlife garden; sometimes as individuals and occasionally as a pair. however these subsequent sightings have lacked this drama because they have postured on the lawn, fluttered around the garden from perch to perch, and fed on the nuts from the bird feeders. So what other influences may have caused this change of behaviour at Millstream Fork? I do not know for sure. But my guess is that this pair of Jays may well have built a nearby nest. If this was the case they would have needed to establish a territory which included enough prey species to raise a family of growing chicks. whilst the trees around Millstream Fork are a habitat for one nest of the most colourful member of the crow family, they do not appear to be enough to support a permanent scold of Jays.
The charities’ contact details are www.ffes.org.uk email: info@ffes.org.uk 52
Harefield Village Café has been built on a reputation for excellent food, friendly service and first class hygiene and cleanliness. We are a modern busy café, conveniently located on the high street of Harefield Village. We serve great value set breakfasts all day, lunches and homemade dinners. We also have a variety of kids meals, perfect for the whole family in a friendly warm atmosphere. We can also cater for large orders, parties and special occasions. All our meals are freshly cooked to order using the freshest and finest ingredients.
Mon - Sat: 6:30 - 18:00 Sun & B.Hols: 8:00 - 17:00
Village Café 5 High Street Harefield UB9 6BX
Only
£2.95
Visit our website to view our full menu: www.harefieldvillagecafe.co.uk 53
Beauty Perfect Nails
By Helen Taylor lamp between coats. When you leave the salon your nail polish will be completely dry and you can enjoy chip-proof, glossy, lasting colour that stays looking great for at least 14 days.
and with a waterproof seal, they won’t get damaged when you swim, bath, wash-up or do any other day-to-day tasks. The seal is only broken when they are removed. They’ll last around 14 days.
When you are ready to have the Shellac removed, a set of foils soaked in acetone are wrapped round your fingers, although some salons may speed the process by asking you to put your fingertips into a bowl of acetone. This soaking process takes about 10 minutes and then the old polish is gently scraped off and nails buffed to prepare for the new coat.
Removal is easy - the product is heated up, the seal is broken and the Minx is peeled off.
You spend a lot of time and money on your hair, your skin and your makeup. But are you letting your image down by not giving the same attention to your nails? It’s worth establishing a hand and nail care routine and then planning a time every couple of weeks when you can treat yourself to a visit to your local nail salon. There’s more than one option though so we’ve taken a look at three of the most recent - and popular - nail services.
CND Shellac Nails
Shellac has definitely been one of the most popular nail services of recent years. Its simple application, smudgeproof finish and effective staying power have secured legions of loyal followers. Applied much like a regular nail polish, Shellac only requires a few minutes of curing time under a special UV 54
There is no ‘infill’ option – even if your polish still looks great, when it has grown out you’ll need to start again.
Minx Nails
If it’s statement nails you’re after then Minx Nails are the perfect choice for you, offering a vast choice of designs in show-stopping colours, patterns and prints. Minx ‘foils’ work on both natural and artificially enhanced nails. Before application nails are given a basic manicure. Minx is a solid film with an adhesive backing that is heat activated. The heat allows Minx to take on the natural curve of the nail and bond to the surface effectively. While still underneath a special infrared lamp, the Minx is smoothed out and filed to fit with the nail. The process is very gentle on natural nails
Long lasting Nail polish
There are several reasons you might still opt for traditional nail polish. Firstly you might want a shade for a special occasion or to go with a particular outfit, without necessarily wanting to keep the same colour for weeks. It’s quicker to put on normal polish and much quicker to take it off. This not only saves time, but will usually be a lower priced treatment or you can do it at home. Particularly for a pedicure, when normal polish will often last weeks anyway, this might be a better option. And the choice of colours is much greater so you can get that perfect match if you need it. Some of the new salon polishes dry very quickly too (such as CND’s Vinylux), so whilst it won’t be as instantly ‘set’ as Shellac or Minx, your finger and toenails will be complete dry and hard within a couple of hours.
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Mediterranean Magic by Pippa Greenwood
If you can’t get away this year, how about creating your own Mediterranean hotspot in your garden? Even if you do manage to escape to the sun for a week or two this year, you’ll still have the rest of the summer at home and a little slice of Italy, France or Greece outside your back door will bring happy memories flooding back. The first thing to do is to choose the sunniest spot available – it’ll not only make sitting out there more enjoyable, but will also mean that you can install some serious sun-loving plants too.
Painting the nearby house, shed or garage wall with white masonry paint will help to create the right atmosphere and look. At the same time it will help to reflect our sunlight – often a bit washed out compared to more southern climes - so providing a stronger light for the type of plants that appreciate it.
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want to make brand new pots look more weathered try painting them with a solution of plain yoghurt as this will help to encourage rapid colonisation by mosses, algae and lichens. Any new hard landscaping such as wall, paths or patios and terraced surfaces will look best in natural stone and there are now also terracotta tiles available that are suitable for use in the garden. Terracotta tiles can also have a storageheater effect too – after a long, hot day they will have absorbed a good deal of heat and this will then be released gradually in the evening. Add interest to a vertical surface by planting a vine. They have attractive leaves and there are plenty to choose from that will fruit well in our climate. You may not be able to create your own vintage but the vines will look particularly authentic when draped with a few bunches of grapes.
Mediterranean gardens often make full use of the walls and any other vertical surfaces, so put up hanging baskets, pots and wall baskets and cram them full of plants.
Glazed tiles, wall-hangings and even the odd ornament or two can also add to the Mediterranean look, but make sure you choose items that won’t be instantly bleached by the sun.
Plants in pots are a must and if possible choose stone or terracotta containers. If you
Try growing your own oranges or lemons. With our generally milder winters some gardeners
are even managing to keep these plants outside all year round with only the minimum of protection. Growing your citrus tree in a good-sized terracotta pot means that you can move it into a more protected spot if necessary. With their wonderful silvery grey leaves and their often rather untidy or gnarled shape, olives too are a plant well worth considering. Olives are best grown in a large container unless you have a warm garden and a very well-drained soil as they hate winter wet. Some plants just spell out Mediterranean Magic – try geraniums and pelargoniums, aeoniums and sempervivums, rosemary, thyme, oregano and pretty well anything with silvery foliage. Go for the brightest coloured flowers and your new holiday destination will also benefit from a subtle Mediterranean aroma too. Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for her ‘Winter thru’ Spring’ vegetable collection, great plants for September and regular advice emails from Pippa, and a super range of gardening products including Nemasys caterpillar, slug, ant and other biological controls, Enviromesh & Envirofleece
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s e d y n r e e d e r
e s g e g. y s it s m, d r y e s at y s e
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NEW free advice service for Chiltern and South Bucks! Finding the right advice has just got easier! People who live or work in the Chiltern and South Bucks area will now have a simpler way to access help from a range of trusted, local organisations via the one phone number. A new advice service with a difference has been launched in the Chiltern and South Bucks area. Whoever you are, whatever the problem, you can call just one phone number to access free advice: 0300 323 0121. CAN, the new Community Advice Network aims to make it easier for local people to find the advice they are looking for. If you need advice on any issue including debt, benefits, housing, mental health or employment all you need to do is call a single phone number to speak to a fully trained adviser who can help you. All advice is completely free, confidential and open to everyone in the local community. 58
In partnership with Age UK, Bucks Floating Support, MIND and Carers Bucks your local CAB service will provide referrals to these and other local agencies via the one phone number, making it simpler to get to the right advice. Besides speaking to an adviser on the phone, you can also email your query or drop into your local Citizens Advice Bureau to talk through any problem in a confidential setting. Speaking to someone face to face and going through documents together makes a huge difference when you’re feeling vulnerable. A fully trained adviser will be available to help anyone contacting the Community Advice Network by phone, email or face to face. If you don’t know who to call for help and feel this service may be able to offer advice for your problem, give CAN, the Community Advice Network a call on 0300 323 0121 or email help@canhelp.org.uk Interested in volunteering for CAN? Join our friendly team and receive full training and support as a volunteer. For more information about CAN visit www.canhelp.org.uk
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The C
Home & Interiors Double-Up Your Space
By Katherine Sorrell
When you have run out of space and it’s not possible to extend, the time has come to think creatively. With the right approach, you may even be able to make two rooms out of one.
Had a new baby? Children growing up? Started working from home? Every year it seems like there’s more pressure on our living space. And while it’s not always possible to move up the property ladder to a ten-bedroom mansion, there is always a way to make your current property work better for you. It’s called doubling-up – and it’s all about giving your home a new lease of life with some thoughtful rearrangements and careful additions, resulting in multifunctional rooms that are entirely practical and yet also utterly stylish. Take a long, hard look at every room in your home and, even in the smallest of apartments, it will soon be possible to see which spaces can be modified so as to serve more than one purpose. We’re not talking about expensive extensions or complex loft conversions, but simply about making the most of what you’ve already got. Like adding a dining area to a kitchen, a home office in a bedroom or a hideaway guest bed in a living room. The trick is to forget your preconceptions about where you live and be creative with the space. To get the most out of every inch (vital when you need to double up on what you have), foldaway furniture is a great option to start with, whether it’s a bed, a desk or a dining table and chairs. Next, make the most of any free wall. Peg rails and hanging rails, hooks and shelves – from high above your head to fitted across an alcove, this can be incredibly useful storage. Think high: a raised child’s bed with space beneath for a desk, sofa or play area, for example. Or could you even build a mezzanine sleeping or working space? And think low: slide a truckle bed under a permanent one, or tuck stools under a small table and magically create an intimate dining area. It’s a lateral-thinking approach that’s quick, easy and inexpensive, and that will make your home as functional and as good-looking as you could ever want, no matter what changes come your way in the future. 60
No room to sit down and eat? Turn a small kitchen into a kitchen/diner with a foldaway table and chairs. The table is attached to a wall with dowels, while the chairs can be hung on a wall hook, nicely out of the way.
Calligaris Quadro white lacquered bar table, £111; Calligaris Olivia solid wood folding chairs in wenge or beech, £80 each; all Lime Modern Living, 01892 512611; www.limemodernliving.co.uk.
By raising a child’s bed you create two rooms: one for sleeping, and one below for playing, studying, relaxing or for sleepovers. The same goes with an adult bedroom – if you have high enough ceilings, consider building a mezzanine sleeping space, leaving room underneath to use however you wish. Loft bed by Oliver Furniture, £995, Nubie, 01825 724160; www.nubie.co.uk.
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A family-run school with a caring atmosphere. Pupils achieve excellent results in academic Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX Independent School for boys and girls aged 3 - 11
subjects, music, sport and drama.
Please telephone 01895 234371 to make an appointment
An ‘OUTSTANDING’ School Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX - www.sthelenscollege.com
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regular events... events at Harefield Community Centre, Priory avenue, uB9 6aP Ladies Singing For Fun, 1st Wednesday in the month 1-2.30pm. Zumba every Tuesday evening from 6.15-7.15pm. Mixed abilities. A fun & lively class. No need to book in advance, call Jean: 01895 823496 or Gwen: 01895 822320
Denham History society Meets most months. 2nd Tuesday of the month, 7.30pm St. Marks Hall, Denham Green. Call Pam on 01895 833989 or e: Pamela@craftygiraffe.co.uk Flower arranging Classes Held 1st Tuesday of every month at St Marks Hall, 7-9pm. Learn flower arranging. Fully qualified tutor. Call Nicky 01895 834210 or 07944 458147 email flowersbyrands@aol.com
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! Learn to Dance 1950's Rock n Roll Jive! Every Monday. Absolute Beginners Jive class 7.30-8.30pm. 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. 7.30-11pm £5 entry. E: the rockingrebels@gmail.com, 07951 652083 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 07951 652083 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 compose and develop your own painting style as well as practicing the finer points of Chinese calligraphy often seen on paintings. Find us at Harefield Library, Park Lane Village Centre, Harefield or contact Phyllis Nash on 01895 476 644 / phyllnash@gmail.com Crosier investment Club Learn more about the Stock Market and to 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
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Hillingdon natural History society Meets 1st wed of the month, Scout HQ, Gatting Way, Uxbridge. enquiries@ hillingdon-naturalhistory society.org.uk inland Waterways associations Meet 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 Beginners line Dancing At Higher Denham Community Centre, Off Old Rectory Lane, Higher Denham. Mon 7-8pm. Also Improvers & Intermediates. Tel: Ann 01753 882847 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 in Uxbridge Town Centre & Hillingdon Sports & Leisure centre. 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 body, with fun dance routines to music for women of all fitness levels. Tue 7.308.30pm at Vyners School, Warren Road,
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 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 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 Pink academy of DanCe Classes held daily at New Denham Community Centre. Range of classes for boys & girls from 2 years to Adults. Contact: Admin@pinkacademy. co.uk www.pinkacademy.co.uk or call 01895 257553 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 continued overleaf...
ng 14 ni 20 pe r O me m Su
BUCKINGHAM HOUSE LUXURY CARE HOME Gerrards Cross
Buckingham House Care Home
Buckingham House is an exclusive care home development and will provide luxurious accommodation for 53 elderly people upon its completion. Maria Mallaband Care Group is one of the UK’s leading care home providers with homes throughout the UK and Ireland. The new residence will specialise in nursing, residential, dementia nursing and dementia residential care, as well as offering respite care. The home will provide five-star accommodation for its residents - each room is en-suite and decorated to a luxurious hotel standard with premium fittings. The property also boasts a café, a cinema room, dining rooms and a hair and beauty salon, amongst its outstanding facilities.
Contact us now for details on care and recruitment Tel: 01753 468200 Email: viewings@mmcg.co.uk Web: www.mmcgcarehomes.co.uk Nursing Care
Residential Care
Dementia Care
Day Care
Respite Care
Palliative Care 65
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keep-fit, dance & drama continued... 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
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
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
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 Social Line dancing At St Marys Church Hall, Harefield Last Sat of the month 7.30-10.30pm tea dance Harefield Community Centre, Priory Ave on Thurs 2-4pm. All welcome. Free car parking. Call John 01895 284428 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 Zumba fitness Every Wednesday 8-9pm at New Denham Community Hall, Oxford Road, UB9 4DW. Call Martine 07788 563572 www.zumbadolls.co.uk
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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 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 Stoke poges Singers A friendly four-part choir singing a wide variety of music. New members welcome (no auditions. The ability to 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 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
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. 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. Wednesday 6.30-8pm. Call 01895 834313 continued overleaf...
From fitness classes to birthday parties, wedding anniversaries and christening celebrations, the Higher Denham Community Hall could be the perfect venue for your special event. Features:
21 x 7m Main Hall Small Kitchen Car Park (approximately 30 cars) Competitive Hire Rates
Go to www.hdca.org.uk for more information or Contact Jane Blyth: hallhire@hdca.org.uk or 01895 833378
Lower Road, Higher Denham, Bucks, UB9 5EA
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pre-school & kids groups continued...
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
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...
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
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
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.
sociAl groups...
sport...
tiny toes childcare Full Day Care Nursery. Call 01753 655650 or tinytoes@ivercommunity.org
Beareavement support group Coffee Morning, 1st Tues of the Month, St Marks Hall, Greentiles Lane, Denham Green, UB9 5HT. Please call Nicky at Dale & Sons for details 01895 832220 or 07510 156380
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
tweenies Baby and toddlers St Marys Church, Denham Village Tuesday 9.30-11.30am 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
self defence... karate club of denham For ages 5 years and up at New Denham Community Centre Sundays 9.15-11am Tel: Dominic 07988 743725 karate club of uxbridge For ages 5 years and up The Uxbridge Centre, The Greenway Wed, 5pm-7pm Tel: Dominic 07988 743725 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
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slimming World New Denham Community Centre Tuesday, 10-11.30am. To register turn up at 10am, call Mandy 07879 897578
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 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 friendly Whist drive Harefield Community Centre, Priory Avenue, Harefield. Every Thurs 7.30pm. Beginners welcome. Contact Lyn on 01923 820173 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
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
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
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We are fully licensed to conduct
www.umcweddings.co.uk email info@uxbridge-masonic-centre.co.uk Civil Wedding Ceremonies
Uxbridge Masonic Centre Western House, 4a Hercies Road, Hillingdon, Middlesex UB10 9NA
Tel: 01895 235582
We also have Bar and Catering Facilities for Weddings, Private and Business Functions
Ring us and come and view our services by appointment only
From the moment you and your guests arrive at Western House, you will know that you have made the right choice, as we shall do our utmost to cater for your every need. Organising your wedding should be enjoyable and stress-free. We will do do all we can to guide, advise and help you plan what will, undoubtedly be one of the most exciting and important days of your life. Western House is The Uxbridge Masonic Centre, and therefore has unique rooms available for your ceremony. The rooms are enhanced by displays of Masonic memorabilia and regalia etc, which creates an iconic atmosphere. Why not come and visit to fully appreciate how we can make your day so different. In Western House your ceremony will take place on the ground oor with the reception on the rst oor where there is a lounge bar and dining rooms. There is a lift for anyone who may prefer not to use the stairs. There is good access to Western House, being located close to the A40/M40 and Hillingdon Underground Station with additional local car parking. Visit our website to view the wide range of menus from which you can make your selection with a range from three to six courses for your wedding breakfast as well as see how your wedding can be presented. Our aim is to make your special day both enjoyable and relaxing; and above all, a memorable day for everyone. You can be safe in the knowledge that you will enjoy an extra special time at Western House.
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