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As we write this, we haven’t quite hit November yet and we’re just a few days away from Halloween, promptly followed by Bonfire Night. The sudden realisation that there is now only a few weeks until Christmas has also dawned on us and Angela’s daughter is about to break up from school yet again! We’re not sure whether it’s doing the job we do (where life is continually spent working a month ahead), but it’s as though one minute we were sneaking off for the odd hour to sunbathe in the garden and the next, grabbing our boots and brollies, complaining about the cold, and contem plating how much our gas and electricity bills will have increased by this year. On the magazine front, things have been even busier than usual this month. With more calls and emails, increased distributions and plans for future magazines (watch this space!) We’re also in the process of giving some of our regular features a fresh new look ready for the new year.
Wildlife Zone
6
Road Test: Toyota Auris Hybrid
8
Karen Munro Careers
10
Children’s Puzzle Page
12
Ruislip Central Horticultural Society
14
Garden Feature
16
What’s your excuse for not neutering your pet?
18
A guide to modern soft furnishings
20
Useful Telephone Numbers
22
Remembrance Day Facts
22
As you will see, there’s lots to do this month and two whole pages of local events to keep you busy during November. We already have December events lined up ready and if you haven’t told us about your’s there’s still time to call, email or facebook us before the deadline. We’ll do our best to publish them for you.
Property Matters
24
Designer Life
28
Coffee Break Puzzles
30
Recipe: Baked Custard Tart
32
In the meantime, enjoy the last month of relative calm, before the Christmas mania sets in!
Reader Travel Offers
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Tel: 0800 038 5001 Mob: 07931 368151 In and Around Magazines cover: West Drayton . Iver . Denham . Uxbridge Angela Fisher 0800 038 5001 / 07759 536494 info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk
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Wordsearch
32
Hillingdon Family History Society
34
Learn to Sign with an adult learners course Local Events Clubs, Groups & Classes
34 36 & 38 40
42, 44 & 46
Puzzle Solutions
45
Christmas Postal Dates
47
Southlands Victorian Christmas Fayre
48
What’s on at the Compass Theatre
50
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.
The Wildlife Zone...FP (Nov14)_Layout 1 23/10/2014 02:38 Page 1
THE WILdLIFE ZONE
BIO PHONY F 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.
or many people bio phony is a new phrase and one may well ask, what is it and how does it work? This can be difficult to define as bio phony is still developing, as my partner and I found out recently at Cheltenham Spa. To begin our weekend break we made time to enjoy the Regency town’s wonderful architecture, museums and pleasant parks before the final evening of the Cheltenham Music Festival. We had bought tickets for Richard Blackford’s world premiere of his latest composition The Great Animal Orchestra, based on Bernie Krause’s book of a similar title. It was followed by Cheltenham’s own Gustav Holst’s, The Planet Suite. As soon as we entered the Town Hall’s auditorium for the musical extravaganza, I recalled my first ever public performance, nostalgically I took a few moments to figure out exactly where my position on the stage had been; it was halfway up the rows of seats at the back, on the right hand side. My younger sister also made her first musical public debut on the same stage a few years later. Soon the orchestra came on stage with Richard Blackford and Bernie Krause explaining the aims and objectives of the music. By doing so, he made his composition accessible to people who don’t always appreciate classical music. Music is the ‘art of the ear’, and bio phony investigates, reveals, and explains the beauty of the animal world by using orchestral instruments. Blackford’s pioneering composition was a world premier which used Bernie Krause’s original animal recordings (which were also the base of his book) to introduce each of the five separate movements. After these initial introductions the orchestra’s instruments developed the composition, often mixed with more original animal recordings. The musicians used mimicry and the rhythm of the habitat to develop emotions, ideas and themes. One example of Blackford’s composition was the bewildering 44 note sound of Britain’s most numerous bird, the Wren. The Wren sings its song and then repeats it, a fact which the composer used to score one of the five movements of the piece. Richard Blackford selected other pieces from Bernie Klause’s archive of 5,000 animal recordings in similar ways. They concluded that in many cases, early in the morning a number of small insects and invertebrates such as crickets, cicadas made high pitched sounds. Blackford used instruments including piccolo, percussion and xylophone to replicate the sounds of the early mornings’ rhythm and atmosphere. By using this animal sound archive, he composed music to create similar feelings in the listener. One example which stuck in my mind was the forlorn sound of a male beaver which had just experienced the death of his mate. For some crazy reason, the American authorities had dynamited their lodge and killed the female inside. The male’s sonorous wail became the basis of a musical phrase, although people such as me also make it symbolic; and I treat it as a sad cry for what is happening elsewhere in the animal kingdom. Most musicians accept that bio phony began with the late French master, Olivier Messaien. He composed scores in which instruments mimicked birds’ songs, trills and calls. However he was always aware of the musical instrument’s limitations because the original birdsongs could never be recreated faithfully, either on stage or in the recording studio. His use of the harp, piccolo and other instruments was expressive, but was still limited with timbre, pitch and texture. Arguably South America’s greatest composer, the Brazilian Villa-Lobos used another perspective recreating the spirit and mood of the Amazon Rainforest in his compositions. He did this by imitating the rhythm of the forest where the cacophony of sounds regularly fluctuated in volume and pitch throughout the day. When I was trekking in the thick of Amazon I carefully listened to and analysed the different natural rhythms of its wildlife at dawn, dusk and night time. I found that when I closed my eyes and listened, there were different sounds throughout the day. A few days afterwards I visited the Manaus Opera House which has played some of these compositions, but there were no performances throughout my stay, and I missed out. Even so, I remembered that I had seen the play Whale Nation which successfully wove music, narrative and poetry together with the natural sounds of whales to promote an understanding of their plight. However the original sounds of whales were illustrative rather than integrated into a serious classical piece of music. The haunting song of the Humpback Whale indicated that other whales also communicate with vowel type sounds, as opposed to dolphins which use clicks and consonants. On our way back to the hotel, I thought about how Blackford had learned from the musical past and how bio phony can be of use in the future. Most people now believe that many governments have continuously failed to save us from our ever increasing environmental problems, such as deforestation, the ‘Mass Extinction of the Species’, global warming and climate change. Bio phony may become an important cultural factor and art form which could help address our problems. It may well help people by giving back our natural values that we had before modern society had replaced them with social and business preoccupations, such as the need to succeed in gaining wealth and status.
The charities’ contact details are www.ffes.org.uk email: info@ffes.org.uk
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It has managed this remarkable feat by producing cars that are unfailingly reliable, supremely wellbuilt and sensibly priced. Unfortunately, with the exception of occasional cars such as the GT86 (which is really a Subaru), Toyotas also tend to be dull as ditch water. So when I saw an advert for a Toyota that prom ised to put the fun back into driving, I was intrigued. It turned out that the car in ques tion was the new Auris Hybrid. The Auris is a midsize family hatch that doesn’t compare very favourably against the class leading Polo and Focus. How ever, I have to admit that I have never actually driven a hybrid so I thought I’d give it a go. There are a surprising number of peo ple who don’t understand how a hybrid works, so I’ll briefly ex plain the principle. The Auris has a 1.8 litre petrol engine, a bank of batteries and an electric mo tor. At low speeds the car is powered by the electric motor, though it only has a range of a mile or so. As soon as the bat teries run out of charge or you want to go a bit faster, the petrol engine kicks in and starts charg ing up the batteries. If you want to go really fast, the electric motor joins forces with the en gine to give you a bit more power. All this clever stuff equates to about 75mpg and very low carbon emissions.
That’s the science, but what’s it like in reality? The new Auris is much lower than before, has a chevron shaped grill like an inverted Citroen, angular head lights, a sharply raked bonnet and neatly sculpted sides. It’s by no means ugly but it is decidedly nondescript and instantly forget table. Inside it’s even worse, great slabs of black plastic and dismal black cloth, truly the definition of bland. At least it feels well screwed together and there’s plenty of room for pas sengers, although the boot is small by class standards. The engine and electric motor combined produce a respectable 134bhp and electric motors are renowned for producing lots of torque. Even so, all those batter ies add weight so the perform ance is adequate rather than scintillating. The Auris has a CVT gearbox which means the engine revs furiously while it waits for the car to catch up with it. Also, the electronics switch between electric and petrol power as they see fit, so the driver’s input is limited to press ing either the accelerator or the brake. The car is near silent around town but overly noisy at motorway speeds or when ac celerating hard. To add insult to injury, it isn’t even especially economical at higher speeds; a Golf diesel is considerably bet ter. The handling is safe and predictable but, with no sensa tion coming through the steering wheel or the seat of your pants,
is completely dull and uninspir ing. Whoever came up with that advertising strapline should be prosecuted under the trades descriptions act. All this hybrid technology is expensive so for the price of a high spec Focus you get a low spec Auris; there aren’t even any toys to keep you enter tained. After some considerable thought, I’ve worked out who might buy the Auris Hybrid. It would need to be someone who lives in London so the excellent urban economy and exemption from the congestion charge would be appealing. Also, as the average driving speed in London is around 7mph, the lacklustre performance and lifeless han dling wouldn’t present a prob lem. Finally, this person would need to have absolutely no inter est in cars but attend a lot of dinner parties so they could brag about the Auris’ environmental credentials. I believe that plenty of these kind of people actually do live in London but for the rest of us the Auris is just too dull. If you want to drive something a little less predictable than a ford, a VW or a Vauxhall, I would point you in the direction of a Kia Cee’d.
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Karen Munro Careers (Nov14)_Layout 1 23/10/2014 01:34 Page 1
Karen Munro - Career Coach
www.munrocareers.co.uk #@munrocareers www.facebook.com/munrocareers Karen is a professional Career Coach providing individual support in all aspects of employment including effective CV writing, interview skills training, networking and successful job searching. A member of the Career Development Institute and registered with the Careers Professional Alliance, a qualified Careers Practitioner and Trainer, she works with both private and business clients around Hillingdon, South Bucks and Middlesex. Karen is currently facilitating workshops and offering individual coaching to Military Personnel leaving the Armed Forces at RAF Northolt, helping them through their transition in to civilian employment. Karen writes for a number of careers focussed and military resettlement magazines and regularly contributes to ‘In and Around’ sharing her practical experience with her local community. At the time of writing this article I was about to travel to Gibraltar on business. the last time I went to Gibraltar I was 15 and on a school trip on the SS Uganda. the ship was later used as a floating hospital during the Falklands War before being decommissioned. I am now returning to 'the Rock' to run a workshop at the Gibraltar Barracks to a group of military personnel transitioning out of the Armed Forces in to civilian life. I am well outside of my comfort zone! So, this is going to be the focus of my article this month. Coming out of your comfort zone! We all have our comfort zone, be it our personal relationships, our jobs or our social life. In previous articles, I have talked about 'being fearless' and this is very similar. Our comfort zones are places where we feel most 'at home'. We can relax and be ourselves and not feel challenged. Comfort zones are dangerous! they are dangerous how comfortable we idle, unfocused and don't have to try - it status quo.
because we don't recognise are. We become complacent, can even become lazy! We just remains consistent - the
Relationships are like this - we've all experienced this at some point in our lives. A relationship needs to be 'alive' and 'active'. You have to constantly work at improving it and nurturing it. If it becomes too
routine, you start to take each other for granted, you become complacent and the relationship becomes dull and just ticks along ‘tick-tock, tick-tock!’ therefore, coming out of your 'comfort zone' and doing new things helps to keep that relationship fresh and alive. If you find that trying to do new things still doesn't improve the relationship, then you know that relationship isn't working. Work is exactly the same! You have to push yourself to do new things you would not normally do. You have to push your boundaries and actively seek new opportunities in order to experience more and to realise your personal potential. If, after all that you still feel things are not working out, you know it's time to look for a new job. the feeling of achieving new skills, experiences and qualities is amazing. It gives you such a boost in confidence. You can look back and say... "I did that"! So, back to my trip to Gibraltar, I could have just let someone else go in my place. I could have just carried on with 'business as usual'. But I took up the challenge and will actively step outside of my comfort zone. I know it will be a great experience and I will continue to push myself to meet new people, do new things and get the most out of every day. Are you in your comfort zone? What can you do to step out of it? Where will tomorrow take you?
Karen
“unlocking your career potential”
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RCHS...FP (Nov14)_Layout 1 23/10/2014 03:10 Page 1
WIStERIA
WELL we are on the edge now of that time of year when the frosts are threatening and those tender plants need some protection for the next six months. You will know that plants are divided up into groups. Mainly fully-hardy, semi-hardy and tender. Those fully-hardy perennials can be left now and almost forgotten about until early Spring when you might want to mulch and feed, however those plants which need protection now need some tender loving care. Excuse the pun! A general rule of thumb, is that I like at least the first frost to hit those plants before I tuck them away in the greenhouse for winter, that stunts the growth and turns the remaining foliage a horrible slimy brown colour, a night of -10c or a little lower basically tells the plant to stop for the season and prepare itself for winter. Plants such as Daliahs, half hardy Fuchsias, Cannas, and the lovely agapanthus Africans all appreciate a bit of a chill before being moved into the greenhouse. However really tender plants such as one of my favourite, Geranium maderense, or Calla Lillie’s need to be taken undercover right now before any signs of frosty nights or even chilly Autumn evenings! If you are storing your tender plants in pots in the greenhouse, try not to put them away with the soil too saturated as this can lead to the roots becoming water logged and rot will set in, however remember to keep an eye that the pots don’t dry out too much throughout the winter especially if you heat your greenhouse. On mild days open the door to air things a little from time-to-time over the winter months. Also, if you haven’t done so already, it’s time to prune certain plants. Some pruning can be left until very early Spring, for the likes of Climbing Roses when the new wood is still soft, however for plants that flower reasonably early in the year such as Wisteria, these can be pruned in December or January. With Wisteria the harder you prune, the more likely you are to force flower heads. Wisteria is one of my favourite climbers and there is nothing better to welcome Spring into Summer than a well-kept tidy Wisteria showing itself off over a building or pergola and displaying its long most glorious flower heads off, which depending on variety, can fall up to 2ft long! There are two periods throughout the year when you should prune Wisteria. Around July (after flowering) and December/January (before the next show buds swell.) In the New Year cut back the shoots coming off the main framework to two or three buds to tidy it up before the growing season starts and ensure the flowers will not be obscured by leaves.
Also this allows the plant to put all of its energy into producing 2 or 3 great flower heads per shoot rather than hundreds of small lifeless flowers. Don’t be afraid of being hard on a mature Wisteria, the harder you prune the greater display and larger more prevalent blooms you will get. the RCHS is coming towards the end of the year of talks now with just one speaker left in November... On November 18th at St. Lawrence Church Hall, Eastcote, we welcome Alan Husbands, a local Bee-Keeper. All are welcome. Entry is £4 for non-members and £3 for members. Please see our website for full details. www.ruisliphorticultural.org.uk
Finally it is great news for children as the RCHS is spreading out into schools. We have contacted local schools to find young ones who are interested in entering into our Spring Show next March with exhibits. We are glad to say that many schools have shown interest, so watch out for further news on this. Nationally over 19,000 Primary Schools have recently signed up to gardening, I feel a couple of generations have missed out, which may explain why there are not so many members of gardening clubs in their 20s to 40s. It is time for a change!
RCHS MAILBAG Q I’m looking for a plant that will keep foliage all year round with strong perfumed flowers in the Winter. Is there such a plant? Patricia, Ickenham. A Well the great news is yes! This is one of my favourite Winter flowing plants. It is called ‘Sarcococca confusea’ commonly known as Sweet Box or Christmas Box. It flowers around Christmas time with small white flowers that will literally flood the garden in a fantastic scent. You can cut it and use it to smell the house out too, it does fantastically as cut foliage. Afterwards the plant will cover in small black berries, the most wonderful hardy Evergreen perennial I can recommend. Q I have a Hydrangea in the garden that looks a mess, too big and overgrown. What can I do about it? Dean, Ruislip Manor A Pruning Hydrangeas does really depend on what variety you have, if you really feel you want to tidy it up, cut off the deadheads now, however try and wait until March/April next year and cut right down to about six inches from the ground leaving two fresh green shoots per stem once it has started moving after its winter rest. This may impact on flowers for one year however, it will give a new lease of life moving forward. Email your questions to rchstalks@gmail.com, we look forward to answering them. Look out next month for our seasonal article.
Warren
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Ickenham GARDENING (Nov14)_IN! Tipss Style Editorials (Mar13) 24/10/2014 08:13 Page 1
GARDENING
Hedge your bets!
with Lee Bestall, Inspired Gardener Ok, so it's a terrible heading, but November is the perfect time for planting new hedges, and at this time of year it's a very safe bet. Prior to the use of containerised plants (which can be planted at almost any time of the year) planting between November and March was a gardeners only option, and as far as the plants are concerned it's still the best by far. When plants are dormant (asleep) they will hardly even notice being moved, and by spring when their new leaves emerge their roots will have already pushed through the surrounding soil in their new home. Hedges are often thought of as hard work, time consuming and have been at the centre of heated neighbourly debates (whether it's cutting them too low or letting them grow too high). They are great for blocking out unsightly views, adding privacy, and also make a wonderful place for wildlife to live, rest and nest. For the past 3 years we've had a variety of birds nesting in our Yew hedge and the addition of extra life in the garden always pleases me. If you're looking for a quick solution to a green screen, then you have two options, either instant (such as a 2m high instant hedge, pre grown, trained and clipped, perfect for the impatient gardener), or Leylandii conifers. As I write this I can hear the screams, but it really is the best option for speed and it's cost-effective. Do be aware that legally, as of a couple of years ago, you have to
keep its growth contained to 2m high if on a boundary (this does not apply to any other species). For the more patient gardener, try the classic evergreen Yew hedging. Like most beautiful things in life, it's more expensive to buy. It's also slower growing (15-30cm per year), but does only require cutting once per year in September, and will provide you with the most beautiful hedge. I also favour the evergreen Portuguese laurel, which has a smaller leaf than the more common cherry laurel, or Beech if it doesn't need to be evergreen. For a smaller hedge it has to be Box, but alternatives include Lavender, Berberis, Lonicera, and for the perfect no-cut low hedge go for a small Hebe, (simply choose a variety which only grows to the height you actually want the hedge to grow to). Whichever hedge you choose, the ground preparation should be the same. For containerised, bare-root or root-balled hedges, dig out a trench which follows the line of the proposed hedge, this should be at least one and a half times wider and deeper than the rootball. Fork over the base of the trench and return some of the soil, so that when you plant the hedge it sits at the same level as previously planted (i.e. not too deep). Backfill with the removed soil, add a handful of bonemeal per plant, and dig in. Firm with your boot then water well before mulching with 5cm of compost, manure or bark clippings. Happy winter gardening. Lee Bestall www.inspiredgardens.net
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Back at the tail end of 2006, my mum came to visit me. I needed to entertain her so I took her to look round the show home at a rather snazzy new de velopment of executive houses. It was like visiting Madame Tussauds, with crowds of people milling around admiring the marble work surfaces in the kitchen and commenting on the curtains in the lounge. Eight years ago, people were excited by anything to do with property and canny estate agents used open days to showcase properties and generate excitement and competition among potential buyers, in turn leading to higher offers.
has just been refurbished and when a property that has proved tough to sell has been tidied up and re launched. If none of the above applies to your home, an open day may not be the best tactic. Your house should be spotlessly clean and clini cally tidy for an open day; nobody wants to see someone else’s clutter. Turn on all the lights and light some scented candles. If it’s a cold winter’s day, light the fire and crank the heating up.
Make a party of it. A couple of bottles of wine, soft drinks for the kids and nibbles for everyone are Open days have gone through a rough patch in the money well spent. last few years; often there just weren’t enough Make your estate agent earn their keep. They potential buyers to make an event of it. But with should be contacting absolutely everyone who has activity in the housing market picking up strongly shown an interest in any properties in that price and a shortage of supply, they’re all the rage again. bracket. They should also be there on the day Here are a few tips for making the most of this drumming up some interest. useful marketing tool. Remember, you’ve nothing to lose from holding an There are three situations where open days are at open day and everything to gain. their most effective: when a desirable property first goes on the market, when an investment property
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Coaching Article (Nov14)_Layout 1 23/10/2014 01:51 Page 1
Christmas 2014...
How to minimise stress As much as Christmas is a season of joy and good cheer, lets face it, it can also be quite stressful. So, in preparation for a busy month, here are some tips to help you keep your stress levels in check. 1.
Make a decision that you will not be stressed out. Sounds weird, but truth is, if we make our mind up first, we step into potential stressful situations with our subconscious mind already knowing that being stressed is not an option.
2.
Be prepared for unforeseen delays and last minute issues - embrace the negative with the positive. Say to yourself, “OK, it’s not that bad…”
3.
Get perspective and get it fast; a Christmas delivery that is delayed by a day or two does not equal the same as a loved one bring rushed into hospital. Stuck in a traffic jam? What could you do in this time?
4.
Be patient; you will be faced with queues and busy shopping centres and crowds.
5.
Plan ahead and make lists, shopping days and times, gift lists and menu planning for various events at home.
6.
Keep communication at home open and share diaries or calendars if you don’t already, and agree times and other important details so no one is left ‘not knowing’.
7.
Be early; where possible don’t leave things to the last minute.
8.
If you are a worrier and tend to think negatively it may be good to give yourself an hour to coach yourself to turning those negative thoughts into positive ones. Tackling some of those “What if’s” or fears is a good way to begin to identify where some of the fears are coming from.
9.
If you feel shy talking to strangers at parties, then prepare with a list of conversation starters and open questions… I also say “To look your best, wear confidence.”
www.designerlife.co.uk neelam@designerlife.co.uk
Neelam Challoner is one of UK’s leading Life coaches, specialising in Re-designing women’s lives and is the founder and owner of Designer life Coaching and the Author of ‘Successful but Incomplete’. Neelam has coached hundreds of people nationally and internationally since 2004. With over 15 years experience in leadership, she has a flair for getting the best out of people. Her clients range from professionals, high net worth individuals, and solo business owners, to unemployed, single parents and women who have suffered domestic abuse. She has empowered and coached both privately and in the public sector pan London and in the Hillingdon Borough and is relentless on her mission to inspire and motivate people to release their potential and live a ‘Designer life’.
10. Have a budget and stick to it - one of the biggest stresses during this season is overspend, and actually many people do not see the reward of that in the months ahead. 11. Keep your body happy; exercise, eat nutrient dense food, rest and laugh a lot. 12. Only take on what you can cope with, say “No”, “Not yet..” or “How about…” if you must. 13. Spread the joy; smile, give, do random acts of kindness and enjoy!
Neelam
For many of us who have spent a number of years researching family histories the days of travelling to view original documents (parish records, civil registrations etc) changed with the advent of the internet. There are a number of commercial web sites which offer access to records and images and it is a matter of choice which site or combination of sites a researcher uses. It is possible that a search on one site will be unsuccessful but on another the information will come to light. This was the case with my paternal grandfather born 1883. So at the start of WW1 he was 31 and I thought that it was possible he may have been involved. Many times I had carried out searches on the two commercial sites that I use without success.
With all the interest generated by the centenary of the start of WW1 I tried once more. This time I had success on one site but not on the other. The first dated 6th August 1915 was a completed attestation form to join the Royal Flying Corps; it stated that he was rejected as ‘unlikely to become an efficient soldier’. The second, dated 11th August 1915, was another attestation form this time for the Territorial Force. He was accepted and was posted to the Middlesex Regiment. In all there were 6 pages of images showing his various applications to join and his actual service. So if you meet a similar situation in your researches try looking in all the resources available − you might just get lucky!
communications barriers between hearing and hard of hearing residents, but it could also be the first step towards a new career in signing. The course also helps improves memory and ex pression and boosts CV credentials by developing Hillingdon Council is encouraging residents to employability skills including communication and support the deaf community by learning how to team work. sign. At the end of the course learners will be able to A fast track beginners course for anyone wishing to take part in simple, everyday conversations and learn British Sign Language (BSL) is being held at follow and give instructions using sign language. Brookfields Adult Learning Centre. The 20 week course (starting in January) is open to those wishing to learn the basics of sign lan guage for fun as well as anyone wishing to take a more serious approach and work towards BSL grade one.
Cllr David Simmonds, Cabinet Member for Educa tion, Children and Young People's Services, said: "Sign language is one of the most fascinating lan guages to learn and is a tremendous skill to pos sess. Whether you are interested in learning some thing new or starting a career as an interpreter this The BSL qualification covers a wide range of topics course will get you on the right track." including how to discuss meeting people, places, For more information on British Sign Language and hobbies and interests using simple hand move other adult learning opportunities visit ments. Not only will the course help break down
Local Dated Events (Nov14)_Layout 1 23/10/2014 00:10 Page 1
Local & Festive Events
november events Ruislip/Northwood Flower Arrangement Society Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue, Oaklands Gate, Northwood, HA6 3AA. Tues 4th November, 7pm for 7.30pm Area demonstrator, Alan smith ‘Christmas Crackers’. Call 01923 829621 for details. Fireworks Display Wed 5th November gates open 5.30pm display from 7pm School Field (rear of Infants school), Harefield Infant & Junior Schools, High Street, UB9 6BT. tickets £6 Adult, £4 Child. email: friends. harefieldinfants@hotmail.co.uk for details. Michael Sobell Hospice Fundraiser Annual Festive Coffee Sat 8th November, 10am-2pm Michael Sobell Hospice, Gate 3, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, HA6 2RN. there will be an array of lovely affordable seasonal gifts plus a range of delicious home-made cakes and pastries with a hot cuppa to shake off those winter chills! entry and Parking will be Free of charge! All proceeds to michael sobell Hospice. For more information on this event go to www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk or call ophelia on 01923 844829 for more details. Bonfire & Fireworks Display Sat 8th November, gates open 5pm, display from 7pm Higher Denham Community Association, Higher Denham Community Hall, Lower Road, UB9 5EA. Licensed bar (opens 5pm) and bbQ from 6pm. Kids stall, tea, coffee and mulled wine. build-a-guy competition. tickets: Family ticket (2 adults + children) £23. Adult £8 Child (4-16 years) £4. Under 3's go Free . event will go ahead whatever the weather! Ruislip Manor Chamber of Commerce ‘Lighting up the Manor’ (from 11am) & switching on the Ruislip Manor Lights (4.30pm) Sat 8th November Victoria Road, Ruislip Manor, HA4 9BH. switching on of ruilsip manor’s Christmas Lights by the Worshipful the mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr. Catherine Dann, at 4.30pm. A variety of activities: live music, children’s rides, trade & charity stalls plus much more.
Denham Friends of Guiding Autumn Fayre Sat 8th November, 2-4pm St Marks Hall, Green Tiles Lane, Denham Green, UB9 5HT. Cake stall, crafts & gifts, raffle, tombola, children's stalls, refreshments and lots more. Denham rainbows, brownies and Guides look forward to seeing you there. For more information email: denhamfog@gmail.com. ‘Butterflies’ Christmas Table Top Sale & Community Coffee Morning Sat 8th November, 9am-1pm Ickenham Village Hall, 33 Swakeleys Road, Ickenham, UB10 8DG should anyone require to hire a table or require more information please contact vera on 01895 635224 or Chris on 676900 or email: butterfliesickenham@yahoo.com Harefield Amateur Dramatic Society presents ‘Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime’ 13th, 14th & 15th November, 7.30pm for 8pm St Mary’s Church Hall, High Street, Harefield, UB9 6BX. A murderous comedy by Constance Cox, based on the oscar Wilde short story. ticket box office 01895 253346 or email janscurr@hotmail.com. HUBB Business Breakfast Event Thu 13th November, 8am-9am Uxbridge Conservative Club, 46 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1PJ. networking with local professionals and in partnership with the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce. ‘state of the nation - Healthcare in the UK’. Guest speaker Graham roberts from WPA. Coffee & pastries. For details email: emma.zovich@wardwilliams.co.uk Pamper Night Fri 14th November, 7-10pm Denham Village Infant School, Cheapside Lane, Denham, UB9 5AE. We have masseurs, manicures, eyebrow waxing, threading and tinting, acrylic nails. there will be an opportunity for a little Christmas shopping with a variety of stalls. tickets: £5 (includes a glass of wine). All welcome if you would like to book a treatment to be sure of a place please ring Wendy on 07826 685098. Ickenham Art Society ‘At Home’ Exhibition Sat 15th November, 10am-4pm Village Hall, Ickenham, UB10 8DG. Paintings in all media for sale - 'please support you local art society.' refreshments.
november into December 2014
Quiz ‘n’ Chips Night Sat 15th November, 7pm for 7.30pm Iver Village Hall, St Margarets Close, SL0 0DA. Quiz night with Fish/Chicken & Chip supper. Come on your own or make up a table of 6. tickets £10 per person (15yrs and under £6). Please bring your own extras (drinks/glasses etc). Details from Pat roberts 01753 647674. RSPCA Christmas Fair Sat 15th November, 11am-2pm Iver Village Hall, SL0 9NX. refreshments, bric-abrac, pet goods, Christmas cards and goodies, CDs and DvDs . entrance 50p. All proceeds go to local animals in need of love and care. Celebration of Voice - Cabaret Evening Fri 21st November, 7.15pm Ickenham Village Hall, 33 Swakeleys Road, Ickenham, UB10 8DG. two sensational acts - matt & molly (mollymariewalsh.com) and shane Hampsheir (www.shanehampsheir. co.uk). Licensed bar. tickets £15 includes a selection of canapés. Available in advance from Pro music International, swakeleys rd, Ickenham or on the door. FISA Christmas Fayre Sat 22nd November, 12-3pm Iver Heath Junior School, High Street, Iver. All enquires to Pippa vinall, call 07771 932108 or email: pippavinal@aol.com. Heathway Ladies Group Bazaar Sat 22nd November, 2pm Iver Heath Village Village Hall. Admission £1, children Free. Drinks tombola, crafts, cakes, cosmetics, tombola gifts, jewellery, grand raffle, refreshments and much more. Do come and join us. Christmas Fayre Fri 28th November, 3.30pm-5.30pm Iver Heath Junior School, St Margarets Close, SL0 0DA. Come and join the fun! Winter Fete Sat 29th November, 11am-4pm Iver Heath Royal British Legion, (Womens Section), Church Road, Iver, SL0 0RD. Lots of stalls. continued...
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Local & Festive Events lIve musIc events the Watersedge Packet Boat lane, Cowley, UB8 2Js Fri 14th nov ladies night with Drag Queen tiffany Wells and 2 male strippers (show starts 9pm with DJ 'til late £15pp including basket meal). the 3 steps high st, Cowley, UB8 2DX sat 8th nov Kylie tribute sat 15th nov live Band 'stiles' sat 22nd nov 'Big Al' sat 29th nov live Band 'J45s'
Ruislip/northwood Flower arrangement society northwood & Pinner liberal synagogue, oaklands Gate, northwood, ha6 3aa. tues 2nd December, 7pm for 7.30pm national demonstrator, Anthony Williams ‘christmas lights’. call 01923 829621 for details. Christmas Fayre sat 6th December, 11am-2pm harefield infant school, high street, harefield, UB9 6Bt. lots of stalls and games plus a chance to meet santa! entry 20p for info email: friends.harefieldinfants@hotmailco.uk
southlands Victorian Christmas Fayre sun 7th December, 11am-4pm the Green West, Drayton. UB7 7PW. Handmade craft items, bric-a-brac, mulled wine, hot chestnuts and mince pies, face painting, crafts, games and much more. the swan at iver 2 high street, iver, sl0 9nG Fri 14th nov two tone (pictured below), 9pm sat 22nd nov macmillan morning, 10.30am Drink coffee, eat cake and win prizes. sat 22nd nov swing & soul Duo, 9pm Fri 28th nov Boogie shoes Disco Band, 9.30pm
the Falcon Village Road, Denham, UB9 5Be. Fri 14th nov legacy ‘John & Belinda’ Fri 28th nov eckie & his sounds & sax
DecemBer events showcase presents society Christmas show 'Christmas memories' thu 4th to sat 6th December, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm matinee on saturday the most sacred heart Church, 73 Pembroke Rd, Ruislip manor, ha4 8nn. For tickets call 020 8572 0475 or 07917 381835. Proceeds from Friday evening performance donated to the church.
Charity Race night Wed 10th December, 7.30pm for 8pm Uxbridge Conservative Club, 46 harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1PJ. In support of the children’s Ward (Peter Pan & Wendy Ward), Hillingdon Hospital. tickets are £10 per person including supper. limited tickets available, email: emma.zovich@wardwilliams.co.uk with your name and supper choice. (Options are: Cod & Chips, Sausage & Chips, Chicken & Chips, Veggie Burger & Chips). the Uxbridge Choral society performing martin how's ‘advent Cantata’ sat 13th December, 7.30pm st. margaret's Church, Windsor street, Uxbridge, UB8 1aB. conductor: Jeff stewart. tickets: £12 adults, £6 for under 12s, available on the door on the night or by calling 01895 847083 in advance.
november into December 2014
ickenham Festive Community night Fri 12th December, 6pm-9pm around swakeleys Road, ickenham Village hall, Gelbe avenue and Community Close, ickenham, UB10 8DG. For a great night out featuring a wide range of music, games festive sales plus special attractions with many local shops opening late, hospitality and fun plus christmas themed lights in and around the village. Further information on how you can get involved is on the Ickenham Festival website at www.IckenhamFestival.org.uk. Follow on twitter at www.twitter.com/IckFest or call or text on 07516 984514. Christmas Fayre sat 13th December, 12-3pm Denham Village infant school, Cheapside lane, UB9 5ae. All welcome! come and see Father christmas. Grand raffle /Auction, craft room. enjoy a cuppa and a slice of cake, plus much more. ‘light up a life’ Ceremonies sun 14th December, 3.30pm and 5.30pm michael sobell hospice lecture hall, Gate 3, mount Vernon hospital, northwood, ha6 2Rn. A special event when people come together to celebrate, reflect and remember loved ones who are no longer with us – whether they received hospice care or not. there will be two ceremonies with performances from the lemon tuesday choir. refreshments will be served. Free entry and parking. Pre-booking is essential call 01923 844730 to reserve a place.
Don't miss the DeaDline! If you would like us to publicise your event in our December issues contact us no later than Friday 14th november.
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Join us for a relaxing river cruise taking-in: Valkenburg with its unique Christmas Caves; beautiful Bruges with its wonderful festive atmosphere and markets; Hasselt, a charming Belgian town with a festive winterland; lovely Ghent, once medieval Europe's second largest city; and Brussels, the Belgian capital. GN Voyages is exclusively chartering the popular mps Princess again with great hospitality and entertainment on board. Beer, wine by the glass, Dutch spirits and soft drinks are included at lunch and dinner and from 6pm to midnight at the bar. Morning and afternoon coffee and cakes and late snacks are also included.
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Price includes: Escorted throughout • Return rail travel from London St Pancras to Brussels • 4 nights full-board on the mps Princess sharing a twin-bed outside rear cabin on Main Deck upgrades available • Welcome cocktail on arrival • Beer, wine, choice of 2 Dutch spirits & soft drinks served at lunch & dinner and from 6pm to midnight at the bar • Morning and afternoon coffee/tea & cakes • Buffet breakfast & lunch • Dinner served at your table • Late night snacks • Captain’s dinner • Entertainment • Transfers abroad
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
ABTA No. Y0291 ATOL 9362
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Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough
4 Days Half BOarD+
il
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Wednesday 24 December, 2014 - Quote XD12-IA
Friday 28 November, 2014 - Quote SS11-2-IA iNCluDED: Free Bar from 6pm to midnight nightly - house beers & spirits, wine by the glass, pumped soft drinks & mixers • Full entertainment & activities programme • 3 nights standard en-suite chalet - upgrades available • 3 breakfasts & 3 dinners • Return coach travel
iNCluDED: 3 nights stay at the Sherborne Hotel, Sherborne, Dorset • 3 breakfasts, 3 dinners and 1 traditional Christmas Day lunch • Visits to Longleat, with a ride on the Santa Express Train, and West Bay - the home of TV’s Broadchurch • Coach travel and excursions
River Avon Christmas Lunch Cruise & Festive Stratford-upon-Avon
Spring Back to the 60s Seaside Party at Pontins Pakefield Suffolk Coast
A
99
£259PP
£ pp DEPOSIT
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Christmas in Dorset Longleat & Broadchurch
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Swinging 60s Christmas Party at Warner Norton Grange Isle of Wight
GrEat Day Out
£59PP
4 Days Half BOarD+ frOM
Wed 3 December, 2014 - Quote RA12-IA iNCluDED: Free time in Stratford-upon-Avon • 3-hour River Avon cruise on the Countess of Evesham • 3-course traditional Christmas lunch on-board - starter, main course and dessert • Return coach travel
£179PP
10
£ pp DEPOSIT
Friday 13 March, 2015 - Quote US3-IA iNCluDED: 3 free drinks per person per night - house spirits, wine by the glass, house beer, pumped soft drinks & mixers • Entertainment with The Swinging Blue Jeans, The Tremeloes plus Buddy Holly and Beatles tribute acts • 3 dinners & 3 breakfasts • 3 nights standard en-suite chalet – upgrade available • Return coach travel
g
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Little Venice Christmas Tea Cruise & London Lights GrEat Day Out
Thriplow Daffodil Festival & Lunch
£59PP
GrEat Day Out
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10
£ pp DEPOSIT
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Saturday 21 March, 2015 - Quote TD3-IA
iNCluDED: 2-hour Little Venice cruise on the My Fair Lady with mulled wine, sandwiches, hot mince pie, tea or coffee, Christmas cracker and decorations • London’s West End Christmas Lights tour • Return coach travel
iNCluDED: Visit to Thriplow Daffodil festival • 2-course hot & cold buffet lunch with a glass of wine at the White Horse Hotel, Hertingfordbury • Return coach travel
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
Ickenham What's On... (Nov14)_Layout 1 23/10/2014 01:09 Page 1
regular & local events... Quiz night Every Tues & Sun, 8.30pm Coach & Horses, Ickenham
Bollywood night Fri 25th April, at Vyners School Hall. Call Doug on 01895 633217 or see www.IckenhamFestival.org.uk
comedy... comedy Bunker Ruislip Golf Centre, Ickenham Road, Ruislip HA4 7DQ. For details see www.comedybunker.co.uk comedy nights The Empire Comedy Club at The White Bear, Ickenham Road HA4 7DF every Thurs night. Pete 01895 675293
hoBBies... Brushstrokes art classes with sue Friendly weekly classes with tuition. Beginners welcome. Hayes, Ickenham & Ruislip. Ring Sue 01895 639294 or 07949 805246 chinese Brush Painting group Saturday mornings. The class is guided by an experienced tutor. Learn how to compose and develop your own style as well as practicing calligraphy. At Harefield Library, Park Lane Village Centre, Harefield or contact Phyllis Nash 01895 476 644 / phyllnash@gmail.com
harrow & hillingdon geological society Meet for lectures at 7.30 for 8pm on the second Wednesday of each month at Cavendish Pavilion, Field End Road, Eastcote, HA4 9PG. All are welcome, visitors £3 donation. Refreshments. For details contact: Jean Sippy, Secretary Tel: 020 8422 1859 www.hhgs.org.uk
further afield. Join outings to galleries and places of cultural interest. Attend special interest study days. Come along to a lecture, cost £6. For more details see www.hillingdondfas.co.uk. Tel: 01895 635007 or 07526 179 529. e: technical@hillingdondfas.co.uk
hillingdon Family history society At Hillingdon Park Baptist Church, Hercies Road, Hillingdon. Research room open (10am-1pm) on the first Sat of the month and every Fri (except the Fri before the first Sat). Experienced help available. See www.hfhs.co.uk Contact Mrs Reynolds 01895 444442 or email hillingdonfhs@onetel.com inland Waterways association Meet 2nd Tues of every month at Hillingdon Canal Club, Waterloo Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX, 7.30pm. middlesex.social@waterways.org.uk ruislip & district natural history society Meet last Mon of the month from Sept to April in Guide Hut near Ruislip Library. Call John Matthews 01895 636215. ruislip & northwood Flower arrangement society Meet every 1st Tues of the month at the Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue, Oaklands Gate, Northwood HA6 3AA ruislip, northwood & eastcote local history society Meets on the third Monday of the month at St Martin's Church Hall, High Street, Ruislip at 8.15pm. See RNELHS website for details. Susan Toms 01895 637134 toms.susan@gmail.com the ickenham art society Meets Thu, 7.30pm in the Scout Hut, Community Close, Ickenham. See www.ickenhamart.co.uk. For painters in any medium. Tel. 01895 637545.
hillingdon arts & crafts club Meet every 2nd Friday in The Parlour at the URC Church in Swakeleys Road from 9.45-11.30am. £3pp. Call Sue Williams 07799 054444
the chiltern aviation society Meets every 4th Wednesday at the Methodist Church Hall, Ickenham Road. 8pm. Call Keith Hayward on 01895 637872 or email John Roach at Chilternaviation@virginmedia.com
hillingdon decorative & Fine arts society Enjoy ten expert lectures a year about art and culture from around Britain and
the language clubs of hillingdon From late Sept until mid-July. Visitors welcome, Speak some German,
Spanish, French or Italian? Want to practise speaking and listening in friendly groups, with recent learners, improvers & native speakers? Join a Language Club! Each Club meets on a different Friday of the month at 7.30pm in St Giles' Church Hall, Swakeleys Road, Ickenham UB10 8BG. For details: German Club 01895 254 723; Italian Club 020 8863 3468; Spanish Club and French Club 01895 253 472.
uxbridge & ickenham Floral art society Meets in the village hall, Swakeleys Road. Call 01895 850943 keeP-Fit, dance & drama... argosy Players theatre group Meets at Ruislip Conservative Club, Ickenham Road, West Ruislip. Every Thurs, 8pm. Call 07972 394702. Bagot stack (Fitness league) TT only. Vyners School, UB10 8AB on Tues 7.30-8.30pm. Call Rosemary 01628 776838 www.thefitnessleague.com classical Pilates Mat classes for all levels in Ruislip. Contact Tonja Osborn 07766 011036 or email TonjaOsborn@gmail.com dance, gymnastics and Free running By Futunity UK. Ages 2 - adults catered for and all styles of dance. See www.futunityuk.com, call 01895 251224 e: admin@futunityuk.com eastcote exercise classes Metabolic workout class, 45 minute stretch class. Mon, Tues & Sat mornings. Contact Virginia King 01895 232551 virginiaking@vking2468.freeserve.co.uk empowering yoga Fusion of Hatha & Vinyasa Yoga Wed 9.30-10.45am at Windmill Studio Centre, Ruislip Manor Thur 9.30-11.00am at St Thomas More Church, Eastcote + classes in Harrow. Free Trial Class contact: Joanne 0845 4561336 e:info@empoweringyoga.co.uk
continued over...
Drug testing in the workplace by Erica Humphrey Solicitor, employment team IBB Solicitors erica.humphrey@ibblaw.co.uk 01895 207262 Research from four leading screening companies have shown that the number of UK employers’ drug testing their workers has increased significantly. The four companies, Alere, Synergy Health, LGC Group and BioClinics, say they have seen rises in the number of annual tests carried out of between 40% and 470% over four years.
organisations look to safeguard not only the business, but also the reputation in the field they work in.
They believe that business leaders’ increased awareness of workplace drug use is a large factor behind the growth and say that companies’ adoption of drugs-testing policies is “mainly due to insurance purposes”.
Drug testing and personal privacy Civil liberty groups have expressed concerns about the rise in workplace testing. They argue that the practice is an invasion of people’s privacy outside of safetycritical roles.
Employee drug testing and the law Under the current law, workers cannot be made to take a drugs test, but if they refuse when the employer has good grounds for testing, they may face disciplinary action. Businesses must also have the consent of employees whom they wish to screen for drugs, and usually this will be in the contract or staff handbook.
A spokesperson for Release, the drugs advice charity, says that her organisation frequently takes calls from people who had falsely tested positive for drugs, and adds that although drug tests may indicate what substances are in the system, they do not indicate if a worker’s performance is likely to be affected. “Employers should not be able to interfere with what their employees do in their private life when this has no bearing on their ability to their job,” Release comments.
Tests are usually performed at random, but can be targeted towards certain workers if their employers become suspicious of drug use.Employees in safetycritical roles - such as operating heavy machinery or driving - and government agencies were most likely to be screened. However, there is a growing trend for drug testing to be conducted in “more normalised industries”, including retail and health companies, as
There have been changes in the types of drugs for which businesses wished to screen, not just amphetamines, cocaine, cannabis and opiates, but things like ketamine, steroids, and legal highs.
Employment law policies and drug testing Work place drug testing is a useful tool for employers. However ensuring that correct policies and procedures are in place is critical to ensure this works effectively for your business.
Working hard for your business From compromise agreements to whistleblowing, contracts to tribunals our team advises business owners in the West London area. Call us to experience for yourself our “friendly, approachable” service and “willingness to put [ourselves] out” (Chambers & Partners, independent legal research).
08456 381381 ibblaw.co.uk
Ickenham What's On... (Nov14)_Layout 1 23/10/2014 01:09 Page 2
keep-fit, dance & drama continued...
fitness League Fun dance routines to music for women of all fitness levels. Tues 7.30-8.30pm at Vyners School, Warren Road, UB10 8AB Call Rosemary 01628 776838 before coming. www.thefitnessleague.com funky rhythms dance & fitness Zumba with Brian (07957 343528) Monday 6.30pm - Swakeley's School for girls, Clifton Gardens, Hillingdon Zumba with elli £5 (07833 690153) Tue 8pm - 233 High St, Uxbridge Zumba with Brian Thu 6pm & 7.30pm Watts Hall, Christchurch, Belmont Road, Uxbridge Zumba with Sylvia J £5 (07793 769584) 8pm - Minet Junior School, Avondale Drive, Hayes Zumba with elli £5. 8pm Active4less, 233 High Street, Uxbridge Zumba with Brian £5. Sat 11am Swakeley's School for Girls, Clifton Gardens, Hillingdon Glow fitness, food, friends Classses : Ruislip 6-7.15pm at Field End Junior School HA4 9PQ . Pinner 6.458pm at Cannon Lane Methodist Church HA5 1JD. Northwood 6-7.15pm at Hillside Junior School, Northwood Way HA6 1RX. Call Sam 01895 460766 or email: sam.simon@glow-fit.co.uk images School of dance Fun and friendly dance & drama classes for all ages. Based in Ruislip Manor. www.imagesschoolofdance.co.uk e: info@imagesschoolofdance.co.uk
e: wendy.whitefoord@btinternet.com www.jazzercise.com
modern Jive classes Mon 8-11pm, West Drayton Community Centre. Tues & Thurs 8-11pm, Uxbridge Civic Centre. Beginners welcome. Free lifetime membership with this listing. Call Alan: 0208 933 4350 or 07860 250961 www.clubceroc.com email: alanandsue@clubceroc.com
oaken Leaves english folk dance club Thurs 8.15-10pm, Methodist Church Hall, Ickenham Rd, Ruislip. All welcome. call Joan 01895 638008. ruislip dramatic Society Meets at South Ruislip Methodist Church. Mon 8pm & Thurs 8.15pm. Call 07854 284508. SaLSa (all styles) Every Monday at Uxbridge Community Centre, 32b The Greenway, Uxbridge UB8 2PJ from 7.45pm to 10pm. Come and join Mina Queen Salsa for some amazing fun. Call 07958 578962 or email mina@queensalsa.com Salsa classes Every Monday: The Middlesex Arms, Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HG. Beginners class starts 8pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.45-9.30pm Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm Every Wednesday: The WatersEdge, Canal Cottages, Packetboat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. Beginners class starts 7:30pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.30-9.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm
irish dancing classes For children aged 5+. Beginners and advanced. Mon 6pm, Hayes Conservative Club, Church Rd. Wed 6pm, Greenford Catholic church hall. T: 07956 346383 e: Deirdreosullivan@ hotmail.co.uk
Showcase amateur dramatics Do you like singing & dancing or maybe some acting? We are an amateur musical theatre company. Rehearsels every Fri, the Sacred Heart Church Hall, 73 Pembroke Road, Ruislip Manor, 7.30pm-10.30pm. Email: info@ showcasemusicaltheatre.org.uk
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 Road, Denham, Bucks Thurs 6.30-7.30pm Contact: Wendy, Tel: 07803 602142
Suzanne’s School of dance and drama 69 Swakeleys Road, Ickenham UB10 8DQ. Classes from aged 2 yrs to adult. All types of dance - ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap, street and musical theatre, drama, singing. www.suzannesdance.co.uk
the pilates club St Giles & The United Reformed Church Halls, Ickenham. Call 07968 920070 or visit www.thepilatesclub.co.uk
Yoga Hatha Yoga and Pregnancy Yoga classes in Ickenham, 1st Scouts, UB10 8RE. All levels. Call Katja on 07951 763851
Zumba Wed 7.15-8.15pm. £5 Curves Uxbridge, Redford Way, Uxb UB8 1SZ Call Liz 07795 512938 marketS... duck pond artisan food & craft market and farmers’ market Artisan Market - on the 3rd Sunday of each month from 10am-3pm, Farmers’ Market - first Sunday of each month from 10am-2pm. Both at the Great Barn, Ruislip. Free parking, dogs welcome. www.duckpondmarket.co.uk mad cat crafts Hand painted and decorated objects for the home & garden. Wed to Fri 10am5pm, Sat 10am-4pm, the Great Barn, Ruislip HA4. www.madcatcrafts.co.uk ruislip country market Every Fri 10-11.30am - car park at St Martins Approach, Ruislip. Fruit, veg, eggs, honey, hand made cards & jewellery, cakes, pies & much more... muSic... accord, ruislip community choir Meet every Thursday evening in term time at 7.30pm at Ruislip Baptist Church, Manor Way, Ruislip. We have over 65 choir members, but will especially welcome new male choir members. No auditions! A great fun choir, if you try us you will want to stay! Any query call Chris on 07714 226216. the rocking rebels ‘1950s rock n roll’ 1st Friday of every month 7.30-11.30pm, St Marys Church Hall, High Street, Harefield, UB9 6BX. BYO drinks. Call 07951 652083 www.facebook.com/the rockingrebelstherockingrebel@gmail.com
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music continued...
capital connection Ladies singing Meets every Wed evening at South Ruislip Community Centre, Deane Park, Long Dr, HA4 OHS. Call Jean 01895 474877 or visit: www.capitalconnection.org.uk
eastcote choral society Rehearses every Tuesday from 8-10pm at Ruislip Methodist Church, Ickenham Road. All welcome. Call 01895 904556. the sound crowd Singing at Ruislip Golf Club. Thurs (TT) 7.45-9pm e: thesoundcrowd@gmail.com top Jazz at the Fairway Ruislip Golf Centre, Ickenham Rd, West Ruislip. Last Monday of the month. Tel: 01895 632394 or visit: www.jazzwestlondon.com pre-schooL & kids groups... rickmansworth & Watford sea cadets Volunteers needed on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7:15 to 21:30 and recruiting Juniors (ages 10 -12) and cadets (12 - 18) fees £15 per month and plenty of weekends away. Email: corickmansworth@gmail.com tiny talk signing classes Thursday classes at St Giles Church Hall, 1 High road Ickenham UB10 8LE. 10am, 11.15 am & 1pm price £5 pre-paid per family. Call Bev Meier 01895 824935 or 07818 025993 the Windmill studio centre, ruislip Hosts a wide selection of classes and activities for all ages. Call 01895 624755 or email: thewindmillstudio@ gmail.com. www.thewindmillstudio.com
sociaL groups...
crosier investment club Learn more about the stock market and to improve personal investment skills. Meets 7.30pm, 3rd Thurs 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
duplicate Bridge Mons & Weds 7.30pm, Thurs 1.15pm. Long Lane Hall, 304 Long Lane, Hillingdon. Call Tony 01895 233853 Friendly Whist drive Harefield Community Centre, Priory Avenue, Harefield. Every Thursday at 7.30pm. Contact Lyn 01923 820173 ruislip Wi Every 1st Thurs of the month at Upper Room, GAA Sports & Social Club, West End Rd, South Ruislip, 7.20pm-10pm Contact Kim Murphy 07989 558925 email ruislipeveningwi@gmail.com ruislip social club At Ruislip Social Club, Grosvenor Vale, Ruislip HA4 6JQ. Fridays and occasional other nights, live bands & tribute bands for details visit www.tropicatruislip.co.uk sing and sign Britain’s favourite Baby Signing Classes from 6 months Wed at Uxbridge Leisure Centre, Fri at The White Bear, Ruislip. FREE TASTERS call Cathy 07712 047 621 cathyseddigh@singandsign.co.uk uxbridge conservative club Bingo, Carpet Bowls, Table Tennis, Lunches, Quiz & Race Nights etc. at 46 Harefield Road Uxbridge UB8 1PJ Contact Georgina Baile 01895 233653/ 07778 348082 e: udcc@btconnect.com
seLF deFence... silat kuntao indonesian self-defence Traditional self-defence 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.
Whatever your thing we’re sure to have a club or event listed to suit you and your family!
Women’s social group Looking to expand your social group and make new friends? We meet regularly for coffee, a chat and organised trips. Please call Seema on 07730 898635 or email seemaa@seemaa.co.uk for details
sport... Badminton club At St Pauls Church Hall, Tiverton Road, Ruislip Manor. Every Wed at 8pm and 10pm. Call Tony or Ann 01895 472578 Badminton club Requires additional players of average standard! Every Tuesday evening 7.45 to 9.45 at Vyners School, Ickenham. Email John: turksclub@hotmail.co.uk Bessingby park Bowls club Every Tues & Thurs, 2-4pm. Call Jack 0208 845 1469. Bikewise Bike rides set off from 61 Swakeleys Rd. 2nd & 4th Sun every month. Call 01895 675376 or email@bikewisegb.com dads army golf society Tuesdays & Thursdays at Ruislip Golf Club. For details call Sid 01895 631489 new Ladies netball team Training Wed 7.30-8.30pm (TT) Ryefield Primary School, Ryefield Avenue, Hillingdon. glebenetballclub@yahoo.com swakeleys tennis club Adult Social Tennis Club in Ickenham. Would suit people returning to tennis after a break. Four days a week all year. Contact Pam 01895 677149 or Ed 01895 635568 www.swakeleystennis.co.uk uxbridge squash club All squash players welcome. Uxbridge Cricket Club, Park road, Uxbridge www.uxbridgesquash.org.uk or email squash@uxbridgesquash.org.uk Tel: 01895 237571
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At the corner of West Drayton Green stands the lovely Grade II listed house known as Arts Centre and once again it is opening its doors so you can enjoy a feast of goodies, gifts and seasonal fare at its Vic torian Fayre on . Following its established tradition of dressing every room in the old house in traditional style with Christmas Trees and encourag ing everyone to deck themselves in Victorian style costume, the Fayre has become an established local feature of the Christmas Season.
In the front handcrafted gifts, knitwear and embroideries will inspire you to complete your Christmas present list at less than shop prices.
will ensure you wont go away hungry. Finally to set complete the scene musicians and singers will entertain you throughout the day.
you can leave the chil dren in the Playroom to enjoy face painting, crafts and games. In the North Chamber Bric a brac, books and a well stocked Tom bola stall will invite you to try your luck while across the landing in the South Chamber, the history of area will be displayed by mem bers of the local history Society, handcrafted gifts and cards with views of local scenes will also be on sale. No Christmas event would be complete without Father Christmas and he may be found in his special attic room at the top of the house.
Because Southlands is a tradi tional Victorian home we regret that access to the first floor is only by the front or the very steep back stairs and there is no lift. However there is plenty to buy, see and hear on the ground floor where refreshments will be served all day in the
As you walk up the front door steps Hot Chestnuts and Hot Dogs will be on sale, and once inside the house, the will be full of seasonal posies and bowls of bulbs for you to buy and tempt you to have a flutter on the massive Hamper Raffle where no less than 5 well in the Kitchen Mulled stocked Christmas hampers will Wine and mince pies, sand wiches and cakes, tea and coffee be waiting to be won.
Do join us at the Fayre that is unique in style and bound to put you in the mood for a lovely Christmas, please feel free to dress up in Victorian style to add to the party atmosphere.
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Compass Theatre FP (Nov14)_Layout 1 23/10/2014 03:34 Page 1
Compass Christmas!
at Compass Theatre Sun 30 November
Compass Little Shop of Theatre Horrors November/December 2014
What’s on at
The traditional Christmas concert with songs, readings and sketches from our community of local musicians and actors of all ages. With a free mince pie and a stocking full of cheer, this is the perfect way to warm up for Christmas.
at Compass Theatre Thu 4 - Sat 6 December
Saucy Jack and the Space Vixens
at Compass Theatre Wed 5 - Sat 8 November Part celebrity, part super-hero: strong, sexy, liberated... and all woman! Their mission is to fight crime and liberate the universe harnessing the Power of Disco! Come along and join Purple Theatre for a crazy night of disco, glam, rock and good old fashioned unadulterated funk! Not suitable for children.
Jesus Christ Superstar
at Compass Theatre Wed 19 - Sat 22 November
Players 2 presents Jesus Christ Superstar, the global phenomenon that has wowed audiences for over 40 years. Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ground-breaking rock musical tells the story of the last 7 days of Jesus of Nazareth. Featuring the hit songs I Don’t Know How to Love Him and Superstar, this spectacular show brings to life the most famous story of all time.
Sad and lonely Seymour lives and works in a dusty old flower shop on Skid Row. After he finds a strange and unusual plant - not listed in any of his plant books, people start to come to see Seymour's plant. But just as business and his confidence start to pick up, things start to get painful as we discover that this plant doesn't use sunlight and water to grow like other plants... it feeds on blood! Just what lengths will our hero go to keep this plant alive?
The Night Before Christmas
at Winston Churchill Theatre Sat 6 December
On the night before Christmas Emily stares out of the window, hugs her teddy and waits excitedly for the morning, while in the corner a little mouse called Eddie can’t understand why only humans are allowed to celebrate and get presents. A co-production with Brighton Dome, this show is suitable for families with children ages 3 to 7 years.
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Season's Greetings
at Compass Theatre Wed 26 - Sat 29 November
Christmas comes but once a year... which is probably just as well judging by the chaos it causes in this hilarious Alan Ayckbourn comedy! Season’s Greetings is a play for anyone who has ever sung "Christmas is coming" with more than a slight sense of dread.
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CompaSS TheaTre Glebe avenue, Ickenham, UB10 8pD. WINSToN ChUrChIll TheaTre pinn Way, ruislip, ha4 7Ql. hIllINGDoN Box offICe 01895 673200
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014 11:27
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