k
Indefinable quality For expert advice and installation of all Schueco systems: 9 9 9 9
Bi-Fold Doors Sliding Doors Conservatories Winter Gardens
9 9 9 9
Curtain-walling Structural Glazing Windows Glass Sky Lights
0844 358 2227 info@bifolddoorfactory.co.uk www.bifolddoorfactory.co.uk
2 BiFold-Quality-A4.indd 1
10/03/2014 11:27
The Woodfield EST. 1985
A N D C O N S E R VA T O R I E S LT D Manufactureres to trade and retail
WE INSTALL THE HIGHEST QUALITY WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES
WHY REPLACE, WHEN YOU CAN REPAIR? • Windows, doors & conservatory repairs • Leaking or drafty windows repairs • Replacing faulty hinges, locks & handles • Replacement of misted sealed units • All types of glazing repairs • Kitchen & bathroom splash backs • Fixing windows & doors that don’t shut • New door panels and cat flaps fitted
CALL 01895 622 207 NOW FOR YOUR INSTANT QUOTE
www.woodfieldwindows.com
info@woodfieldwindows.com
3
Well, whilst March seems to have flown by, for me personally, it was quite a packed month of birth day, Mothers Day and Easter celebrations. Not to mention the copious amounts of chocolates that are still hanging around the house and threaten ing to sabotage my diet at any given moment. I think I’ve probably spent half the month eating super healthily and the other simply packing my face with chocolate and cake. On the positive front, I did complete the annual deconstruction of my garden, which simply means clearing it of dog bones and debris, before giving the grass its first cut of the year. Not a major achievement for most people, but for me it’s a big tick off my list of things to do. Now if I could just put the list away and not keep adding things to it, I might actually stop it going onto two sheets of paper. In fact, if I keep going at the rate I am, I’ll be able to pa per the living room with it.
Pg 14
Karen Munro: Careers
6
April Fools
10
Ruislip Central Horticultural Society
12
Garden View Spring has Sprung
14
Spring Break
16
RSPCA Rehoming Appeal
18
As ever, I stand in awe of those who seem to achieve everything on their list and still have time to spare. Any time management tips, always very welcome. .
Coffee Break Puzzles
22
Local Telephone Numbers
24
Recipe: Soda Bread
24
World Book Day at St Helen’s
26
You can advertise in this magazine from as little as £22.00 per month
Local Events
28
Mole Watch
29
Just £50 puts your recruitment advert into all six publications (that’s over 30,000 homes).
Clubs, Groups & Classes
Tel: 0800 038 5001 Mob: 07931 368151 In and Around Magazines cover: West Drayton . Iver . Denham . Uxbridge Publisher: Angela Fisher Phone: 0800 038 5001 / 07759 536494 Email: info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk Information and Details of Rates at
www.inandaroundpublishing.co.uk
4
30, 32 & 34
Puzzle Solutions
33
The Wildlife Zone
36
Situations Vacant
38
Wordsearch
38
MAY COPY DEADLINE 21ST APRIL 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.
al y. d
d s r d n d e
t r n r s. s g r d h s s
y s e o n y
t s
h e r h
t d r o d
e f n s y
t g d d t y
s, y –
5
Karen Munro Careers (Apr16).qxp_Layout 1 29/03/2016 14:45 Page 1
Karen Munro - Career Coach www.munrocareers.co.uk
twitter - @munrocareers facebook - munrocareers
Karen is a professional and qualified Careers Practitioner and Trainer who provides support in all aspects of Career Development and Transition including effective CV Coaching, Interview Skills and Networking Techniques. A member of the Association of Coaching and registered with the Careers Professional Alliance, she works with both private and business clients around London and the South East who are looking for career change, direction, motivation and support. She works as an Associate Career Coach for a number of organisations including Right Management, Personal Career Management Ltd and is part of the MOD contract providing career support and guidance to Military Personnel transitioning in to civilian life. Karen contributes to ‘In and Around’ every month sharing her practical knowledge and wealth of experience with her local community.
Time for a change? SPRING is here and it’s that time of year when we all start updating things, such as spring cleaning our house, putting away all our winter clothes, throwing out our old and unwanted items, painting and redecorating in brighter and lighter colours. It’s time to shake away the winter, open up all the windows and let the sunshine in. It’s time to make changes. Change is a constant. It’s happening all around us. Change it good. At the end of last year I also considered what needed changing in my life. So, this year I set about winning and securing new business contracts, increasing my private coaching practice and on a more personal note, moving home (not too far though!). So, I am also going through a period of change and as I type this month’s article I am surrounded by packing boxes! Change can be a daunting prospect and it is often much easier for us to stick with the status quo and continue doing what we are doing and keep everything safe and within our own limits. However, if we never push ourselves to make change we can also become stale, de-motivated and we can lose our enthusiasm. Many companies who have not embraced change have ended up falling victim to it – a strong company will always be looking to change, grow and embrace new initiatives. It is therefore equally important we, as individuals do the same. Don’t allow change to become more of a challenge or a threat. Use it to achieve more and bring you new experiences and adventures. It is difficult to know what lies ahead and it can generate a credible fear of the unknown, which inevitably causes us to refuse to change at all. We even may rely on others to help us and tell us what to do.
“Find a job you love and you will never work again.” Winston Churchill
When coaching a client through career change one of the most important messages to relay is that change comes from within. It is never about someone telling someone what to do, what is right for them, or how they need to change. They have to want it and embrace it in order to create it. A good career coach will guide a client to help them find the answers they need themselves. They will empower the client to recognise what is important to them, what their values and strengths are and help them identify what change they want to make, no matter how big or small. So, remember, Spring is here – what changes are you going to make?
Karen
“unlocking your career potential”
R
Tr
L
•H •W •I •5 •W
C
7
5 s
y
7
Will removal of white lines really improve road safety? by Caroline Dunne Consultant IBB Solicitors caroline.dunne@ibblaw.co.uk
Opinion is divided on the removal of white lines from the centre of roads despite trials showing that motorists drive slower once the lines are removed. Pilots in Wiltshire and Derby have shown a reduction in speeds and fewer accidents. The scheme has also been piloted by Transport for London who reported a reduction of 13% in speeds on roads where the white line had been removed. It is not suggested currently that white lines are removed from busy fast roads, but instead where the roads are quieter and already subject to a lower speed limit. Research has shown that, where there are fewer road markings, drivers are more cautious – which in turn leads to safer roads.
or without white lines, drivers should always drive to the conditions of the road and well within the speed limit” The AA has also voiced strong opposition to a more widespread removal of white lines, calling for road markings to be stepped up rather than decreased. Other road safety experts are concerned that the lines’ removal could affect anti-accident technology in some vehicles. “Far from talking their use down we should be talking it up,” said Paul Watters of the AA. “They have a vital role in keeping road users safe.
Gary Rae, campaigns director for BRAKE has expressed concern at the plans stating:
“Of course there should be places where they can be dispensed with and this has largely worked, but unlike road signs, markings are already less intrusive but still help road users.”
“While crashes at lower speeds can mean fewer deaths and serious injuries this data only seems to look at a possible reduction in average speed and not at the number and nature of collisions…. With
Contact IBB Solicitors’ road traffic team for advice on road traffic legal matters. 03456 381381 (office hours) 0330 999 4 999 (out of hours)
Your best defence Points on your licence can affect your whole life. If you are convicted of a motoring offence by the court, you will have a criminal record. This applies to all sentences available to the court, including fines. This means you will have to declare your record for a period of five years if you apply for a job, and it will certainly affect cost of your insurance. If you have been charged, seek legal advice immediately. Contact Caroline Dunne, Consultant, on 01895 207214 or caroline.dunne@ibblaw.co.uk
8
ibblaw.co.uk
office hours: 03456 381381 out-of-hours: 0330 999 4 999
it
e
r
.
et
e t
...
9
Ickenham APRIL FOOLS (Apr16).qxp_IN! Tipss Style Editorials (Mar13) 30/03/2016 18:56 Page 1
! Ha!
TIME OF YEAR
! a H ! Ha
IF you asked my late father-in-law what he remembered about 1957 he’d lecture you for an hour about the Russians launching Sputnik 1. If you’d asked my own dad and he would have smiled and said, ‘The great Panorama spaghetti hoax!’ My dad loved documentaries almost as much as he loved a good joke so when the BBC ran their now infamous spoof programme about the spaghetti harvest in Ticino, Switzerland, he was in his element. Spaghetti was considered an exotic food at the time and my father had never tasted it. He was caught out along with the majority of the British public and laughed along with the joke. The fact that the distinguished broadcaster Richard Dimbleby was in on it tickled him all the more. It is believed that this was the first time the medium of television had been used to stage an April Fools’ Day joke. No-one knows the true origin of April Fools’ Day. It might date back to the Roman spring festival of Hilaria, a time of jollity: the most popular theory though is that it crossed the channel from France. In 1582 Pope Gregory switched the French calendar from the Roman, Julian one to the new, shorter, Gregorian calendar. Under the old calendar New Year was celebrated from March 25th to April 1st. The first day of the Gregorian calendar is, if course, January 1st. Some refused to accept the new calendar and still celebrated New Year on April 1st. People called them poisson d’Avril or April fish. ‘Poisson’ is in fact a 10
April Fools By Louise Addison
corruption of the word passion and is a reference to the mocking and tormenting of Jesus by the Romans at his crucifixion. It definitely loses something in translation though! In England, April Fools’ Day is a bit of a misnomer as we only have until 12 noon to play our pranks; not really fair when the Scots enjoy a full 48 hours of ‘hunting the gowk’ (cuckoo). It’s always worth watching or reading the news on April 1st as many programmes and newspapers run hoax articles. Previous jokes have included: A full page BMW car advertisement detailing their new ‘cross-channel’ model which could be either right or left hand drive, had pedals on both sides and a moveable steering wheel. A report on dehydrated water, claiming that a special powder could be converted to water by exposing it to UV light. A report about the discovered remains of a new dinosaur which apparently had a Roman coin in its stomach. I always think that the best pranks are those which involve sending someone on a ‘fool’s errand’, for a left handed spanner, striped paint or a long weight. Try it and see for yourself. Be sure to do it before midday though or you may be told: April Fools’ has been and gone; you’re the fool and I am none.
Ha! H Ha! H a Louise Addison
m
o
PROTECT YOUR HARD EARNED HOME ASSETS AND
d
3
s
t
...
With some simple planning we will ensure that they are fully protected so that your loved ones receive their rightful inheritance. Please consider the following five questions: 1. Have you made a will, if so when was it reviewed? 2. How can I protect my children’s inheritance? 3. How do I protect my home and assets from care costs? 4. How can I preserve my business assets for my family? 5. What if I am unable to manage my affairs?
If you feel you could benefit from a free review of your existing arrangements then please call us on 01895 675631
WELBECK CONSULTANCY Looking after you, your family and generations to follow
T: 01895 675631 F: 01895 638765 E: info@welbeckconsultants.co.uk www.welbeckconsultants.co.uk 11
RCHS FP (Apr16).qxp_Layout 1 29/03/2016 16:14 Page 1
As well as providing talks the Society also has three shows a year appropriately Spring, Summer and Autumn. These shows are designed so that our members can exhibit flowers, pot plants, fruit and vegetables. There is a sharing of ideas and information and of course the awarding of prizes. However the spirit of these shows is one of support and encouragement and the exhibitors display a wide variety of experience. One thing is for sure once you have exhibited you get bitten by the bug and it becomes addictive! Please consider entering and if you are a member and would like to exhibit please go to the website and view the schedule. There are classes for photography, craft items and domestic produce. If exhibiting is not for you then please come along and support our members. The next show is on Saturday, 2nd of April, 1pm to 4.30pm at the Great Barn, Ruislip.
&
TALkS EVENTS A long overdue promised mailbag this month as well as a lowdown on the happenings at the RCHS in 2016. Committee Member Patricia Swindells gives us a great insight into some events that I know many members are very much looking forward to. Over to Patricia...
There is something for everyone and the Society welcomes old and new members to all these events. If you have never been to any of our events then you are very welcome to come along. Look at our website http://ruisliphorticultural.org.uk/ We look forward to seeing you throughout 2016. Thank you Patricia, well, as I promised this month we are going to address some gardening questions that have come through to us over the past few months, any question put in an email to the panel will be addressed in return by email, however here are a few we think maybe useful to all gardeners out there. Please keep those questions coming in to rchstalks@gmail.com
Clematis Group 3, Pruned ready for Spring
The 2016 season of talks and events for the Ruislip Central Horticultural Society has begun with a very entertaining talk by Jim Buttress (Channel 4 presenter). He talked for over an hour on ‘London’s Royal Parks’ dispensing facts with amusing anecdotes on what goes on behind the scenes. He highlighted the dedication of the gardeners who keep the gardens in the best possible condition for the millions of visitors who come at every season of the year. Perhaps even more interesting were his tales of what went wrong! Throughout the year there will be speakers on Growing Fuchsias for the Garden and Show bench; kew Gardens; and the Making of Henstead Exotic Garden. The final talk of the year will be given by Pippa Greenwood. Details of all these will be found on the R.C.H.S. website. Our next talk is on Tuesday, April 19th at our usual venue of St Lawrence Church Hall, Pinner, HA5 2SJ, starting at 8pm. The topic is ‘Creating a Butterfly Garden’ by David Bevan, who has had a long association with conservation and wild flowers. Sir David Attenborough is President of the Butterfly Conservation and he wants to spread the message of conserving butterflies and moths across the world. “Butterflies are some of the loveliest wild creatures we have the in countryside,” says Sir David Attenborough. “However, they are in trouble”. Here is our chance to find out how we can do our bit by knowing what to plant in our gardens and window boxes to provide food for butterflies.
12
Finally, throughout the year we have one off events such as the Plant Sale on the 16th April (10am-12.30pm at 106 Evelyn Ave, Ruislip); a coach trip to the ‘Gardeners World Live’ at the NEC on June 14th. A demonstration of Floral Art in July and a Quiz in October.
RCHS MAILBAG Q I have noticed that due to the mild winter many of my clematis are already shooting and some have flower buds on, what’s going on, these are not normally in flower until August! Sally, Ruislip Manor. A You are not alone! It may seem harsh, however if the Clematis you are referring to is group 3, this group comprises of clematis that flower from mid- to late- summer on the terminal 60cm (2ft) or so of the current year’s growth. If this type is left unpruned growth will continue from where it ended the previous season, resulting in a tangled mass of growth, flowering often well above eye level and stems bare at the base. These late-flowering clematis are best pruned back hard in February each year to the lowest pair of buds. So even if they have started shooting and you haven’t pruned it since last year, then do it now. Q I’m looking for a fast growing climber; however, it is for a North facing wall, can you help? Martin, Eastcote. A Martin, one I have growing on my own wall which is northwest works fantastically well and that is Climbing Hydrangea Anomala Subsp. Petiolaris. It is fantastic for shade and low sun walls, slow to get going however, once it has found its roots and comfortable it will rocket. It bears huge lacecap style hydrangea flowers (See September 2015 issue on RCHS website). This climber has the RHS Award of Garden Merit.
See you on the 2nd April at the RCHS Spring Show, The Great Barn, Ruislip, which this year, has been kindly sponsored by Gibbs Gillespie.
Warren
13
Ickenham GARDENING (Apr16).qxp_IN! Tipss Style Editorials (Mar13) 31/03/2016 06:35 Page 1
GARDENING
Spring has Sprung
Rachel Leverton
D
igging is really only something I do with ground that is being cultivated for the first time. Mostly I use a fork and work in fertilser as I go along.
Planting a container grown shrub Soak the compost for an hour before planting. Make sure the rootball of the shrub is sufficiently moist. Check to shrub is suitable for the site. Dig a hole that is larger than the root-ball. Work well-rotted gardencompost or planting mixture into the bottom of the hole and mix it with the soil you removed when you dug the hole. Plant the shrub o that the top of the rootball is just fractionally below the finished soil level. Firm the earth around with your boot. Water the plant in and spread an organic mulch on top. 14
I like to use an organic fertiliser and tend to go for poultry manure pellets. I sprinkle them round shrubs, roses and perennials. The application instructions will vary but generally it’s about three handfuls to the square metre. It’s magical stuff when lightly forked in. It gives the plants a boost and builds up the levels of beneficial soil bacteria. Now is the time I dig up my overcrowded border plants and split them into smaller clumps. These can be used to plug the gaps elsewhere in my garden, or given to friends to help plug the gaps in theirs! Make sure you use a bit of fertiliser and water them in if the ground is dry. I spread a good 3 inch / 8cm layer of mulch around my border, between the plants. Choose from well-rotted manure or garden compost, chipped bark or cocoa shells. This seals in moisture and keeps the weeds down, essential at this time of year when they start growing like... well... weeds! If you haven’t already done so give your roses a prune taking care to remove any dead or diseased stems completely. Rachel Leverton
15
Ickenham SPRING BREAK (Apr16).qxp_IN! Tipss Style Editorials (Mar13) 31/03/2016 07:13 Page 1
TRAVEL
Spring Break By Kate Duggan
Spring is the perfect time to explore a new area, and there are certainly plenty of events planned across the UK to tempt you on to the road.
can also take advantage of the adventure park, with its huge indoor play area, sandpits and rides for all the family.
For starters, you could head to the isle of Skye on April 29th for a weekend of live music; more than 30 acts are planned and weekend tickets are a steal at £95. Or maybe you fancy taking in some truly breath-taking scenery? if so head to the Scottish Highlands on May 21st , for a coast-tocoast classic car tour with The rotary Club of East Sutherland.
A good day trip can feel like a minibreak in itself. national Trust properties are usually a pretty safe bet. Choose between castles, forts and other historic buildings, or just spend a few hours wandering through the parklands or gardens. Cliveden in Buckinghamshire is a good choice for garden lovers: its italianate Long garden has been planted with some 20,000 sweet-smelling hyacinths while the Water garden will be awash with cherry blossom, wisteria and magnolias.
Kids will love to explore the Lost gardens of Heligan in Cornwall, with its outdoor sculptures, rope bridges and ‘jungle’. Or how about a trip to Escot in Devon, where they can run riot through the maze, see otters being fed, watch wild bird displays and play hide ‘n’ seek in the woods? Book into nearby Yellingham Farm B&B, or camp at Crealy Meadows Caravan and Camping park, where you
16
Or why not just pack a picnic and head off to the beach or woods? Check out Walking Britain for some inspiration. www.walkingbritain.co.uk If you fancy going a bit further afield, try Morzine in the French Alps. in the winter it is a popular skiing destination, but at
this time of year it’s quieter. The scenery is still stunning though, and there’s certainly plenty to keep you busy. The mountain biking trails are among the best in the world, but there are also plenty of more leisurely sports to enjoy, including golf. How about nabbing a last minute cruise deal? The royal Caribbean’s rhapsody of the Seas starts from just £569 for nine nights, and calls at naples, Sicily and Malta to name a few destinations. If you crave the sun, Dubai is a good bet, with temperatures in April reaching 32°C. Wander around the street markets, from the gold Souk, to Deira Fish Market, and then have a coffee in the ramada Dubai hotel where you can admire one of the world’s tallest stained glass windows. You’re pretty spoiled for places to stay in the UAE, but the Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf at Madinat Jumeirah is a great choice, as it’s one of the top rated hotels on Trip Advisor.
17
The RSPCA Hillingdon, Slough, Windsor, Kingston and District Branch Registered Charity No: 263515
Thank you for your support . We can’t do it without you!
It is with great sadness we have to TINY TIM & TINA 12 WEEKS OLD announce that our Crescent Parade This adorable pair actually came to us separately. furniture and children’s shop will be Tiny Tim was found in a back garden and Tina was closing by the end of June this year. an unwanted pet, at such a young age these ador
able kittens are looking for a forever home. They do love each other’s company and they can be a Our fashion and general shop further along the bit mischievous, but they love a fuss and the atten parade at no 12/13 will be staying very much open, tion. Could you offer this lovely pair a forever extending its rear area to accommodate children’s home? wear and electrical. Furniture will transfer to our large Ashford Middlesex store. Bringing a new kitten home is exciting, but it’s a big commitment. You’re providing a cat with a loving It has been impossible to make ends meet of late home for the next 14+ years of their life. They on the furniture, very labour and vehicle intensive need lots of time and attention so the decision to and competition with corporate discount stores get a new feline family member should never be hard to compete with. Profits have dropped and taken lightly. the sad decision not to renew the lease has been reached by the Trustees. Wherever your kitten comes from, it should be sociable and brighteyed with no visible health There will be a limit to the amount of children’s problems. A kitten also shouldn’t be taken away toys and clothes we will be able to accept – any from their mother until they are eight or nine weeks ideas welcome!! old. Getting your girl cat spayed protects her from getting pregnant, your cat will need to go the vet to We would love to hear from anyone willing to offer have a simple operation called spaying. It’s impor some voluntary hours in our main shop on Cres tant to have her spayed before she is fourmonths cent Parade, anything from 2.5 hour shifts. old to protect her from getting pregnant while she's still a kitten herself. You may have heard that it’s Our charity shops are our lifeline to animal welfare, good for cats to have a litter of kittens before they without the income from our shops we would not are spayed but this isn’t true. Once she has been be able to help the 10k+ animals that come spayed your kitten will be able to do all the things through the Hillingdon clinic each year. Local ani cats enjoy doing, like going outdoors, climbing mals rely on the success of these shops so any trees and playing. help anyone could offer would be appreciated. If you think you can offer one of our animals a In the interim period the furniture shop will only be loving home then please ring RSPCA Hillingdon open occasionally as voluntary staff are available. Branch on 01895 833417 or visit our website Many thanks for your understanding and support. www.rspcahillingdonclinic.org.uk to download an application form 18
Please don’t call this company, or you may never see us again!
018
C
The Weeds in your Driveway www.smartexteriorcleaning.co.uk
Driveway Pressure Cleaning and year round weed control
01895 875662
Ge tod
I’m just curious if you prefer to save money, or make money? I just found out how you can do both without affecting your day job. Ltd Would it be ok if I show you how? Call me on 07970 988281, or visit me at www.heresyourchance.co.uk
Extensions Loft Conversions Refurbishments Approved EPDM roofing contractors 20 Year Guarantee
w.smartexteriorcleaning.co.uk
info@kcdab.co.uk
19
T
Sh
2
V
18
Tur 20
2C On
IN
The Curtain Gallery Shop Local! West London’s one stop shop for curtains, nets, voiles & blinds TRADITIONAL & PLAIN NETS & VOILES
20% OFF
VOILES & NETS MADE TO MEASURE CURTAINS & BLINDS: 1500+ FABRICS
VOILES IN ALL COLOURS AND PATTERNS
MODERN & CLASSIC DESIGNS TO SUIT ANY INTERIOR
WOOD BLINDS IN ALL SHADES & FINISHES
187 Field End Road | Eastcote | Middlesex | HA5 1QR | T 0208 866 0555 Turn right out of Eastcote Station [Met & Piccadilly line] - less than a one minute walk | Bus 282 stops outside
2 Car Parks available at the rear of the store [access via North View or Abbotsbury Gardens] Online Store www.thecurtaingallery.net | http://www.facebook.com/TheCurtainGalleryLondon 21 INANDAROUNDMAGAZINE_FEBRUARY2015.indd 1
08/03/2016 10:48:15
22
,
.
23
24
e d u e e s
e s t t w
d il e o a el e s. y Al t d
25
WORLD BOOK DAY at ST. HELEN’S COLLEGE
Pupils and staff at St. Helen’s College primary school in Parkway, Hillingdon have had a colourful and educational time celebrating World Book Day today (Thursday, 3rd March 2016). Pupils were encouraged to dress as characters from the clas sics, and there were plenty of characters from books such as Robin Hood, Alice in Wonderland and The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. There was even a (female) Hamlet! Several of the children from Years 2 to 6 stood up spontaneously during assemblies and spoke as their characters, including Hamlet delivering some of the famous ‘To Be Or Not To Be’ soliloquy!
game of croquet during their PE lesson to extend the Alice in Wonderland theme! A superb day was had by everyone, with pupils really benefiting from discussion of the stories they and their friends love. The children also brought in good quality second hand books for a huge school wide book swap.
Mrs. Savage, English Coordinator, said, ‘We love World Book Day here at St. Helen’s College and enjoy taking the opportunity to stretch the children’s imaginations even further, introducing them to books they might not otherwise discover, and bring Visiting author Marcia Williams ran workshops with ing their learning to life with costumes, assemblies children throughout the school, and Oak Farm Li and workshops’. brary visited the very youngest children in Nursery for story time. There were World Book Daythemed assemblies and an ‘Extreme Reading’ photo com petition, for which pupils had to send in photo graphs of themselves reading in extreme places. The children sent photographs of themselves read ing in trees, in museums, while on pogo sticks, while washing up and many more. One of the most amazing was this photograph of Jasmine (Year 2) reading underwater! Some classes enjoyed a ‘Mad Hatter’s Tea Party’, during which they promoted books which they had read and enjoyed, and catering staff themed the lunch time service around Alice in Wonderland too, with ‘Eat Me’ and ‘Drink Me’ signs and colourful cupcakes on offer for dessert, served by The White Rabbit! Pupils from every class at Upper School visited Lower School children as ‘reading buddies’ and read to them, which was a super experience for both age groups. Year 6 even participated in a
26
Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX Independent School for boys and girls aged 3 - 11
e e e
d
it s
A Centre of Excellence
OPEN MORNING Thursday 21st April 2016
Please telephone 01895 234371 to make an appointment Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX - www.sthelenscollege.com 27
Dated Events (Apr16).qxp_Layout 1 29/03/2016 16:44 Page 1
APRIL EVENTS Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland 5th - 9th April Compass Theatre, Glebe Avenue, Ickenham, UB10 8PD. Clifford Hume is starring as the Queen of Hearts in the newly refurbished theatre. For tickets and more info 01895 250615 or visit www.hillingdontheatres.uk Ruislip Stamp Fair 9th April The Ruislip Methodist Church Hall, Ickenham Road, HA4 7DG. For details call 01895 637283.
Swim-a-thon in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice 17th April, 9.15am-12.30pm St Helen’s School, Northwood. Support your local hospice join our first ever Swima-thon. Free entry and free parking. Details from Laura Kaye 01923 844906 or e: lkaye@michael sobellhospice.co.uk Lunchtime Classical Music Concert 27th April, 12.15pm. St Martin’s Church Hall, corner Eastcote Road and High Street, HA4 6DG. Valentin Schiedermair (Piano).
Local Events April 2016 28
Ickenham & Swakeleys Horticultural Society Spring Show 9th April, from 2.30pm Ickenham Village Hall, UB10 8FU. Free entry to see stunning spring flowers and enjoy teas and homemade cakes For more details visit the website www.ickenham-horticultural.org.uk and tweet @IckenhamGarden. Hillingdon Canal Club Talk 12th April Hillingdon Canal Club, Waterloo Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX. Andrew Taylor, Waterways Chaplaincy – talks about ‘The Role of the Waterways Chaplaincy’. Email: middlesex.socials @waterways.org.uk for details. HUBB Business Breakfast Event 14th April, 8am-9.30am Bay Lodge, 36 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1PH. Networking in partnership with the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce. In this presentation : ‘Living & Working with Autism’. To book email: helen.thompson@wardwilliams.co.uk or visit : www.wardwilliams.co.uk The Hardy Plant Society Middlesex Group Plant Sale 16th April, 10am-2pm The Community Hut (previously Manor Farm Hall), St. Martin’s Car Park, Ruislip, HA4 8BD. Free entry. A fine selection of both usual and unusual plants which you will not find in garden centres. Advice available if required. Contact Brian Franklin on 01923 236043 or go to our website www.hardy-plant-middlesex.org.uk
Veterans Breakfast Club 30th April The Good Yarn pub, High Street, Uxbridge. All Veterans and Military personnel welcome.
ADVANCE NOTICES Uxbridge Choral Society & Aylesbury Choral Society 22nd May, 7pm Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Botwell Lane, Hayes, Middlesex UB3 2AB. Together performing Verdi’s ‘Requiem’. Tickets: £12 (under 12’s £6) on the door or from www.uxbridgechoralsociety.org.uk Ladies in the Night Walk 10th June, Walk starts 10pm Register for the 6th Annual Michael Sobell Hospice ‘Ladies Night Walk’ (sponsored by Savills Eastate Agents) online at www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk or call 0203 826 2367 for an entry form and join us for this fantastic community event.
LIVE MUSIC EVENTS The Swan at Iver 2 High Street, Iver, SL0 9NG. 2nd April Michael Bublé tribute 8th April Solace 15th April The Flyers 22nd April 2 Tone show 29th April Introducing ‘Neighbourhood Noise’ The WatersEdge Packet Boat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. 29th April The Ramblers The Whip & Collar Swallow Street, Iver, SL0 0HU. 29th April Mark Kelly, from 9.15pm
Please send us your details to be included in the May issues by Friday 15th April.
Quality service at affordable prices
Book online! Contact your local office: Quality service Unlock 01292 590147 at your affordable prices www.dailypoppins.com
free timeor 01923 388254
Contact your local office: Book online!
01895 348449
www.dailypoppins.com
Contact your local office:
01292 590147
www.dailypoppins.com
29
Ickenham What's On... Apr16.qxp_Layout 1 29/03/2016 16:53 Page 1
regular & local events... Quiz night Every Tues & Sun, 8.30pm Coach & Horses, Ickenham
ruislip rock ‘n’ roll club Every Thurs - rock 'n' roll record hop at Ruislip Social Club, Grosvenor Vale, HA4 6JQ. Doors open 7:30pm, classes at two levels 8pm, social dancing 8:50-11pm. Fun and friendly club, free parking, licensed bar. www.JiveRevive.co.uk; email: JiveRevive@ btinternet.com; call: 020 88664263. Beginners rock ‘n’ roll Jive classes Every Monday at Harefield Cricket Club, UB96NE. Doors open 7.30pm, class 8pm. Fun & friendly, no experience or partner required. 1950s Rock n Roll record hop - 1st Friday of every month at St Mary's Church Hall, Harefield, UB96BX. 7.30pm-11.30pm. Contact: therockingrebels@gmail.com 07947106607 www.facebook.com/ therockingrebels lessons in love Six workshops to help you deal with matters of the heart. Every Tuesday 7-9:30 call Keeley on 07923 074304 or visit www.key4change.com
comedy... comedy Bunker Ruislip Golf Centre, Ickenham Road, Ruislip HA4 7DQ. See www.comedybunker.co.uk
hillingdon decorative & Fine arts society Enjoy 10 expert lectures a year about art and culture from around Britain. Outings to galleries & places of cultural interest. Receive NADFAS Review, Interested? Come along to a lecture, cost £6. See www. hillingdondfas.co.uk, email: membership@ hillingdonfas.co.uk, call Ann 01895 638147
hillingdon Family history society At Hillingdon Park Baptist Church, Hercies Road, Hillingdon. Research room open (10am – 1pm) every Fri (except the Fri before the first Sat of the month). On the first Sat of the month open 10am – 1pm at Uxbridge Library. Experienced help available. See www.hfhs.co.uk. Contact Mrs P. Reynolds 01895 444442 or hillingdonfhs@onetel.com ickenham & swakeleys horticultural socty. Local gardening club. Twice yearly Shows in the Village Hall, winter lectures, summer outings, newsletters. Member Trading Hut with discounted gardening goods. Clubhouse Lane, UB10 8FU. Enqs: Jill Watson 01895 674412 www.ickenham-horticultural.org.uk @IckenhamGarden inland Waterways association 2nd Tues of every month, 7.30pm.Hillingdon Canal Club, Waterloo Rd, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX. 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.
comedy nights The Empire Comedy Club at The White Bear, Ickenham Road HA4 7DF every Thurs night. Pete 01895 675293
ruislip & northwood Flower arrangement society Meet every 1st Tues of the month at the Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue, Oaklands Gate, Northwood HA6 3AA
hoBBies...
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
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
30
ruislip Philatelic society Meet at South Ruislip Methodist Church, Queens Walk, South Ruislip HA4 0NL on the 3rd Tuesday of each month except August. Meeting and displays and talks each month and an auction three times a year.7.30pm for 8pm. tel for more details: 01895 637283 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. 0208 866 0875. the chiltern aviation society Meets every 4th Wednesday at the Methodist Church Hall, Ickenham Road. 8pm. Call
Keith Hayward on 01895 637872 or email JRoach at Chilternaviation@virginmedia.com
the language clubs of hillingdon From late Sept until mid-July. Speak some German, Spanish, French or Italian? Want to practise speaking and listening in friendly groups, with recent learners, improvers and native speakers? Join a Language Club! Each Club meets on a different Thursday of the month at 7.45pm in St Giles' Church Hall, Swakeleys Road, Ickenham UB10 8BG. For details: German Club 01895 254 723 . Spanish Club. French Club 01895 253 472. Italian Club 020 8863 3468. uxbridge craft market Every Wednesday (9am-5pm) at The Pavilions Shopping Centre Arts, Crafts, Gifts and Collectables www.uxbridge-craft-market.co.uk uxbridge & ickenham Floral art society Meets in the village hall, Swakeleys Road. Call 01895 850943 Wednesday stitch club 10-12noon at Hillingdon Tennis Club. All abilities, Tutorial, White work, gold work, crewel work.Call sue 0208 868 8052.
keeP-Fit, dance & drama... argosy Players theatre group Meets at Ruislip Conservative Club, Ickenham Road, West Ruislip. Every Thurs, 8pm. Call Call Wendy on 07956 971849 or visit www.argosyplayers. org.uk. Junior section for children from 8-16yrs meets Thursdays from 7-8pm. 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. FreeTrial Class contact: Joanne 0845 4561336 e:info@empoweringyoga.co.uk
continued over...
P H A
H
31
Ickenham What's On... Apr16.qxp_Layout 1 29/03/2016 16:53 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
Fitsteps with Stephanie Mons 6.30pm at Ickenham United Reformed Church, Swakeleys Rd UB10 8BE and Mons 8pm at Vyners School Ickenham UB10 8AB info: stephanie-w@hotmail.com 07920 519630 www.fitsteps.co.uk Funky Rhythms Dance & Fitness Zumba with Brian (07957 343528) Monday Zumba, 6:30pm-7:20pm and 7:308:20pm, Abbotsfield School for Boys Zumba with Elli £5 (07833 690153) Tue 8pm - 233 High St, Uxbridge Funky Zumba with Brian (07957 343528) Wed 6:30-7:30pm, Abbotsfield School. FITSTEPS Thu 6:30pm-7:30pm, Abbotsfield School for Boys. 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 Highgrove Pool Club A programme for over 55’s includes Gym, swim & group exercise sessions with a social area with coffee & teas included, for Info : Angelo Pignone angelo.pignone@all.org 01895 630753 www.better.org.uk/highgrove 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 Irish Dancing Classes For children aged 5+. Beginners and advanced. Mon 6pm, Hayes Conservative Club, Church Road. Wed 6pm, Greenford Catholic church hall. T: 07956 346383 e: Deirdreosullivan@ hotmail.co.uk Jacquies Workouts Mon 7.30-8.30pm Kettlebell with Fitness Pilates floor work. Thu 7.30-8.30pm Latin Dance & Tone. Sports Hall, Vyners School, Warren Road, Ickenham. Wed 10am-11am Kettlebell & Fitness Pilates floor work at Eastcote Community Centre, Southbourne Gardens Eastcote. Call Jac 01895 672354. Jazzercise Classes New Denham Community Centre Mon 9.30-
32
10.30am, Tues 6.45-7.45pm. Wed, Thu & Fri 9.45-10.45am. Denham Village Memorial Hall, Village Road, Denham, Bucks Thurs 6.30-7.30pm. Contact: Wendy, Tel: 07803 602142. www.jazzercise.com e: wendy.whitefoord@btinternet.com Jazzercise Classes Ruislip Sports and Social Club, Grosvenor Vale, Ruislip. Mon 6.45-7.45pm; Tue 7-8pm; Wed 9.30-10.30am. Pinner Methodist Church, Love Lane, Pinner. Mon 8-9pm; Thu 7-8pm. St. Lukes Hall, Love Lane, Pinner. Wed 7.45-8.45pm; Sat 9am-10am. St. Lawrence's Church Hall, Bridle Rd. Pinner. Fri 9.30am. Contact Tina Durkan 07904 221191 email tinadurkan@googlemail.com facebook.com/jazzerciseNWLondon
Modern Jive Classes (Ceroc) Mon 8-11pm, Yiewsley & 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 email: alanandsue@clubceroc.com Oaken Leaves English Folk Dance Club Thurs 8.15-10pm, Methodist Church Hall, Ickenham Rd, Ruislip. Call 01895 638008. Ruislip Dramatic Society Meets at South Ruislip Methodist Church. Mon 8pm & Thurs 8.15pm. Call 07854 284508 for more details.
Suzanne’s School of Dance and Drama 69 Swakeleys Road, Ickenham UB10 8DQ. Classes from aged 2 yrs to adult. See www.suzannesdance.co.uk for details. The Pilates Club St Giles & The United Reformed Church Halls, Ickenham. Call 07968 920070 or visit www.thepilatesclub.co.uk Wild Forest Gym Outdoor fitness and natural movement training in 50 acres of forest at Grim's Dyke Hotel, Old Redding, Harrow Weald. All abilities. Mon-Fri. Contact Coach Michael 0845 4561336 info@wildforestgym.com or www.wildforestgym.com Yoga Hatha Yoga and Pregnancy Yoga classes in Ickenham, 1st Scouts, UB10 8RE. All levels. Call Katja on 07951 763851 Yoga with Yolanda Ickenham Village Hall. Mixed group. Mon 6.45-8.15pm. Call 07919 243648 Zumba Wed 7.15-8.15pm. £5 Curves Uxbridge, Redford Way, UB8 1SZ Call 07795 512938 Zumba FREE! At Compass Theatre Dance Studio, Ickenham. Every Friday. Adults £5 under 16’s FREE. Suitable for all abilities. 07985 470025 www.gtarling.zumba.com
MARKETS...
SALSA (all styles) Every Monday at Uxbridge Community Centre, 32b The Greenway, Uxbridge UB8 2PJ from 7.45pm to 10pm. Call 07958 578962 or email mina@queensalsa.com
Duck Pond Artisan Craft & Farmers’ Market Artisan - 3rd Sunday of each month from 10am-3pm. Free parking, dogs welcome. Farmers’ - 1st Sun of each month 10am2pm. Both at the Great Barn, Ruislip.
Salsa Classes Every Monday: The Middlesex Arms, Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HG.Beginners starts 8pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.459.30pm Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm Every Wednesday: The WatersEdge, Canal Cottages, Packetboat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. Beginners starts 7:30pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.30-9.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm
Mad Cat Crafts Hand painted and decorated objects for the home & garden. Wed to Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm, the Great Barn, Ruislip HA4. www.madcatcrafts.co.uk
Sanders Street - Authentic Street Dance Specialising in street stance for special needs. Sanders Pandas class, Age 5-11 Wed 5.30-6.30pm at Guide Hall, Community Close, Ickenham. Email info@sanders street.co.uk or call Crissy on 07799874003 www.sandersstreet.co.uk Showcase Amateur Dramatics Amateur musical theatre company. Every Fri, the Sacred Heart Church Hall, 73 Pembroke Road, Ruislip Manor, 7.30pm-10.30pm. Email: info@ showcasemusicaltheatre.org.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... Capital Connection Ladies Singing Meets every Wed evening at South Ruislip Community Centre, Deane Park, Long Dr, HA4 OHS. Call Jean 01895 474877 Eastcote Choral Society Rehearses every Tuesday from 8-10pm at Ruislip Methodist Church, Ickenham Road. All welcome. Call 01895 904556.
continued over...
33
Ickenham What's On... Apr16.qxp_Layout 1 29/03/2016 16:53 Page 3
music continued...
Hillingdon choral society Rehearsals on Mon, TT only, 7.45-9.45pm. Ickenham United Reformed Church. New singers welcome 01895 234380 or see www.hillingdonchoralsociety.org.uk Ruislip operatic society A local theatre group meets every Monday and Thursday at St Martin's Church Hall. 7.30pm, email: info@ruislipos.org
singability A singing club for people who love to sing, we welcome all abilities. We aim to encourage people to find their singing voice and have fun doing so. All welcome - no auditions just turn up & your first session is Free! Every Thurs 7.45-9.45pm, 1st Ickenham Scout Hut www.singability.co.uk Email kat@singability.co.uk or call 07843493583 showcase musical theatre Come and sing with us, no audition necessary. We meet every Friday evening at 7.45 pm at Hesdin Hall, The Most Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 73 Pembroke Road, Ruislip, Middx,HA4 8NN http://showcasemusical theatre.org.uk the Rock Project Greater London School of Rock & Pop where we teach 7-18 year olds how to play guitar, bass, drums and vocals in small groups and as a band. Sessions run Wed's at Nower Hill High School, Pinner and Thurs at Vyners School, Ickenham. Juniors (7-11) 4.15-6.15pm and Seniors (11-18) 6.30-8.30pm. £20 per two hourly session. Contact Pritpal on 07855 863058 or e: uxbridge@therockproject.com top Jazz at the Fairway Ruislip Golf Centre, Ickenham Rd, West Ruislip. Normally 3rd Monday of the month. For details: 01895 632394 or www.jazzwestlondon.com uxbridge Folk club meets twice a month on a Thursday at Uxbridge RNA, 388a Long Lane, Hillingdon, Middlesex. UB10 9PG (2 mins from Hillingdon Tube Station) welcomes floor singers and musicians.
PRe-scHooL & kids GRouPs... Funtimes Playgroup Ages 2-5years, Ofsted registered at 2nd Ickenham Scout Hall. Community Close UB10 8RE info: 07528 001478 e: funtimesplaygroup@hotmail.com Happy days Pre-school At the United Reformed Church Hall, Swakeleys Road, Ickenham, UB10 8BE. Mon - Fri 9.15am-12.15pm TT only. Call Sandra on 07752 479750.
34
Rickmansworth & Watford sea cadets Volunteers needed on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7:15 to 21:30 & 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 07818 025993
seLF deFence... silat kuntao indonesian self-defence Traditional self-defence. Adult classes only. Mon and Wed 8pm-10pm at Denham Village Memorial Hall, Denham, UB9 5BN. Call Philip Davies 07790 496 346 or kuntao.matjan.uk@gmail.com.
seLF HeLP... Rosemary conley Mon 6-7.15pm Hillside Junior School, Northwood HA6 1RX. Tue 10-11.15am & Wed 7-8.15pm North Harrow Methodist Church, Pinner Road HA2 6EQ. Thurs 5.306.30pm Eastcote Methodist Church HA5 2QU. Sam 01895 460766 sam.simon@rosemaryconley.com
sociaL GRouPs... duplicate Bridge Mons & Weds 7.30pm, Thurs 1.15pm. Long Lane Hall, 304 Long Lane, Hillingdon. Call Tony 01895 233853 Friendly Rubber Bridge Tuesdays & Fridays 12noon - 4pm at Pinner Bridge Club, 103 Marsh Road, Pinner. For further info call Keith 01895 622033 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
Bus Pass to Broadway If you are over 60 and enjoy singing and dancing come and be part of a fun group. we meet every Monday at 10.30am at Wayfarers Tennis Club, Ickenham. Call Jacquie 01895 672354. scrabble (casual, all abilities) Every Thurs 1:30pm-4:30pm Elm Park Lunch Club, Ruislip Manor Hillingdon Residents only, small fees payable. Call Mel: 01895 444947 E: zarf77777@blueyonder.co.uk scrabble (keen players) Every Fri 1:30pm-4:30pm...free Ickenham Library. Call Mel: 01895 444947 E: zarf77777@blueyonder.co.uk uxbridge conservative club At 46 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1PJ Contact Georgina Baile 01895 233653/ 07778 348082 or you can email: udcc@btconnect.com Women’s social Group We meet regularly for coffee, a chat and organised trips. Call Seema 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 Every Tuesday evening 7.45 to 9.45 at Vyners School, Ickenham. Email John: turksclub@hotmail.co.uk Bessingby Park Bowls club Tues & Thurs, 2-4pm. Call 0208 8451469. Bikewise From 61 Swakeleys Rd. 2nd & 4th Sun every month. Call 01895 675376. Bowls Mill Bowling Club, Manor Farm Green, Ruislip. Call Mr Gibson 01895 636106. dads army Golf society Tuesdays & Thursdays at Ruislip Golf Club. For details call Sid 01895 631489 Harefield archers Meet every Tues 7.30-9pm at Harefield Academy , Archery Beginners Courses run twice a year. for more info: Andy Harding secretary@harefieldarchers.co.uk www.harefieldarchers.co.uk Ladies Golf Meets 10am every Monday and Wednesday at Rickmansworth Golf Club. Email ladiescaptain@rickmansworthgolfclub.co.uk new Ladies netball team Training Wed 7.30-8.30pm (TT) Ryefield Primary School, Ryefield Ave, Hillingdon. glebenetballclub@yahoo.com
Before
After
Refresh Your Tired Kitchen!
Transform your tired kitchen just by changing the doors & worktops
Less Hassle, Less Time, Less Cost.....
20% OFF*
• Huge choice of door styles and colours in any size. • Worktops, Appliances, Sinks and Taps to complete your kitchen. This • Installed quickly & cleanly by our own local professional fitters. • 50% deposit, balance on completion. • We also do Full Bespoke Kitchens, Bedrooms, Utility Rooms and Studies.
month
EST.
1999
Call Afzal for a Free estimate 01895 809481 Visit our showroom at 17 Broadway Buildings, Boston Road, London, W7 3TT Or we can bring the samples for you to choose in your own home. Large car park behind the showroom.
www.dreamdoors.co.uk * Terms & Conditions apply, please ask for full details
The Wildlife Zone...FP (Apr16).qxp_Layout 1 30/03/2016 13:18 Page 1
THE WILDLIFE ZONE
MARTLETS 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.
SOME animals such as eagles, lions and boar, as well as mythical beasts such as martlets and unicorns were used in medieval heraldry. The little known martlet was depicted as a mysterious bird that had no feet but was believed to be fast and elegant in the air. A notable user of the martlet was the Earl of Pembroke family that included Aymer de Valence and his wife Marie de Saint Pol. The martlet had qualities that this aristocratic family claimed for themselves and displayed it for society to admire. As tradition indicated, when Marie de St Pol founded Pembroke College, Cambridge on Boxing Day, 1347, she gave the institution the family name and coat of arms. Since then the martlet has represented a ‘constant quest for knowledge, learning and adventure’; traits that Pembroke College still value today. Quite incredibly, some of us can attract the natural birds represented by the mythical martlet into our gardens, or at least see them flying overhead. The martlet was the medieval name for the swift, and a general description for swallows and martins. This trio of birds had things in common, which is why they were grouped together. For example, they are seen in the warmer months between April and September; then they migrate fly to their African feeding grounds. Many people want to know why these birds fly these fantastic distances, making huge efforts to overcome all of the dangers that they must face. It is an incredible phenomenon, bearing in mind that many of them simply cannot and do not survive such ordeals. The most popular theory held by scientists is that these treks are a left over from the Ice Age. Whilst the world was different then, there should be some present day environmental similarities from which the birds can benefit. The African winter has warmer months, bringing with it greater supplies of insects. Consequently these three species still gain more from their migration to the tropics than wintering in the cold British Isles. How these birds migrate is another fascinating subject, and many concepts abound. It is likely that they begin their migration by calculating the hours of Autumnal daylight as well as gauging the changing weather with internal natural barometers. After embarkation from the British countryside they use the Earth’s magnetic field as well as the sun, moon and stars to steer themselves onto their traditional migration routes. Directing themselves to their own particular territories and nests, individuals may well also design their own natural history maps by using landmarks such as coastlines, rivers, forests and mountains. Since the c18th taxonomists such as the Linnaen Society has discontinued the medieval martlet grouping and has categorised swifts in their own family. The smaller swallows and martins however, have been classified as hirundines. The larger, brown coloured swifts, only feed in the air, using their scythe shaped wings to catch flying insects high in the sky loftily gliding and wheeling in ways that are unmistakeable to the trained eye. Whilst they can be seen overhead at the Millstream Fork wildlife garden, they never settle to nest in the nearby trees or on the house. Their natural nesting sites are cliffs, although they do improvise with quarries, bridges and large, tall buildings. Swallows and martins often feed by skimming and rolling over rivers, ponds and lakes. But like swifts, they also need a lot of open space as their swoops and dives make turning and changing direction in close circles very difficult. I regularly see them soar over the nearby river catching fluttering insects in their wide trap-like gapes. However, they do not use the narrow tree-lined millstream, as overhanging branches could easily damage a wing and cause a horrible death from starvation. Swallows and house martins are often confused with each other because people usually get only fleeting glimpses of them before they flash out of focus. The swallow’s famous markings are its red face, metallic blue sheen and its forked tale with long distinctive streamers. Martins are not as colourful as swallows because rather like the larger swifts, they have only brown and white feathers together with a less pronounced V-shaped tail. At Millstream Fork, I saw swallows using one of the man-made double nest boxes that I had fixed directly under the eaves. I watched them clinging onto the nests with their unnoticeable feet, remaining perfectly still and perpendicular. I hoped that a family would fledge and return each and every year, as many have been known to do. Unfortunately this did not happen. Perhaps a predator such as a sparrowhawk killed them or they may have died from one of the lethal dangers that lurked in migration. Whilst these three bird species are relatively familiar, they still have some secrets from us, just as the heraldic martlet once had. Personally I look forward to when we can fully understand them, their habits of migration, and accept these animals for what they are – miracles of nature.
The charities’ contact details are www.ffes.org.uk email: info@ffes.org.uk 36
6
0
2
4
6
8
2
4
4
6
8
9
4
3
6
8
8
e s pt y s. n rt 37
SITUATIONS JOB OPPORTUNITIES
DISTRIBUTORS WANTED
De Vere Venues, a unique collection of iconic city centre hotels, business centres & tranquil countryside venues, now have exciting opportunities available! Recruiting now at De Vere Venues, Denham Grove, Tilehouse Lane, UB9 5DG Restaurant & Bar Team Members – Food & Beverage Supervisor Food & Beverage Manager Assistant Conference & Banqueting Manager
Reliable people wanted to deliver our local magazines once a month. Areas include Iver, West Drayton & Uxbridge. Minimum age 14 years Pay £7 per 100
VERY COMPETITIVE SALARY AND BENEFITS! If you love hospitality and are looking for an exciting challenge email your CV to: pchotai@deverevenues.co.uk Contact: 01895 833 338 www.deverevenues.co.uk
38
VACANT
Call 0800 038 5001 or 07759 536494
ADVERTISE YOUR VACANCY HERE!
Just £50
will put your vacancy within all six publications and inside over 26,000 homes Call 0800 038 5001 or 07759 536494
014 11:27
JOIN TODAY AND SAY YES TO
SAVINGS!
Costco Wholesale is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members quality goods and services at the lowest possible prices. We provide a wide selection of merchandise, plus the convenience of speciality departments and exclusive member services, all designed to make your shopping experience a pleasurable one. We are confident in the quality and value of our products, and we stand behind them with our guarantee of satisfaction.
Join in the warehouse or online:
www.warehouses.costco.co.uk/membership The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership is £20 (plus VAT). which includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. The annual membership fee for Standard Individual Membership is £25 (plus VAT), which includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. Membership Criteria applies. Membership must be obtained before purchases can be made. Costco accepts cash, debit card, cheque or American Express
SIGN UP FOR MEMBERSHIP WITH THIS ADVERT AND RECEIVE A
£5 VOUCHER
SAMPL5E
This voucher entitles Costco member
to a credit of up to £5 purchased against items from Costco
£
COSTCO
£5
VOUCHER
Sample_Voucher_5Pound_DL.indd 1
Coupon #182235 Valid until 31/08/15 at all UK Locations
16/12/2014 16:25
T: 020 8571 8675
E: marketing126@costco.co.uk
COSTCO HAYES ONLY. VALID UNTIL 31/03/16.
www.costco.co.uk
JN11116
Costco Hayes Western International Park, Hayes Road Hayes London UB2 5XX
Food Court | Fresh Bakery | Groceries | Gifts | Electronics | Fine Jewellery | Designer Apparel | Opticians | Fine Wines | Butchers and more! 39
gibbs-gillespie.co.uk
LONDON BUCKS HERTS MIDDX
For almost twenty years we’ve been Middlesex and Hertfordshire's most awarded and successful estate agency. The reasons for our success are simple; we are passionate about property, we are honest and forthright in our dealings with clients, our innovations set industry standards and we never lose sight of the fact that we owe everything to our clients and the communities in which we operate.
If you are thinking of renting, buying or selling a property please call us and experience our award winning difference. Uxbridge Sales 01895 272742 Uxbridge Lettings 01895 252542 Denham 01895 835835
your multi-award winning local agent