Iver April 15 by In and Around Publishing

    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

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 Well, that’s a month of birthday celebrations over, with two short trips to Portugal, another to Yorkshire and a rather mad weekend spent at a Butlins eighties weekend. This is without a doubt, about as much travelling and what could be deemed by some as ex cessive drinking, as I would usually fit into six months, let alone one single month. Of course, there is always a price to pay for enjoying oneself too much, so the end of the month swiftly paid me back with two succes sive colds and a complete email breakdown right on deadline. I’m now looking forward to normality and a much more sedate April, which other than trying to catch up on the work front (another penalty to be paid), will probably see me doing little more than tidying up the garden at some point whilst intermittently over indulg ing on Easter eggs and then trying to com pensate by working the damage off at the gym. That’s unless the sun comes out of course, in which case, barbecues and beers at the ready. The gym can wait! .

   Tel: 0800 038 5001 Mob: 07759 536494 In and Around Magazines cover: West Drayton . Iver . Denham . Uxbridge Ickenham . Ruislip Angela Fisher 0800 038 5001 / 07759 536494 info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk 

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Children’s Puzzle Page 6 Coaching from the Heart 10 April Special: The Grass is Greener 12 Property Matters 14 Local Events 18 The P J Gathergood Blog 20 Coffee Break Puzzles 22 Interiors: Charming Country Style 24 Beauty: Spring into Summer 26 Designer Life 28 Breakthrough for Sciatica Sufferers 30 Puzzle Solutions 30 Health: Put a Spring in your Step 32 Zoe Hart 34 Finance: Challenger Banks 36 Golden Years: Memories of 50 Years Ago 40 Karen Munro: Careers 42 Wordsearch 43 And Another Thing 44 Reader Holidays 46 Local Events 48 Short Story: The Stakeout 50 Citizens Advice Bureau 52 RSPCA Re Homing Appeal 52 Richings Park Residents Association 54 Gardening Feature 66 Iver/Iver Heath Schools Community 58 Pets Corner 60 Wildlife Zone 62 Motoring: 4 x 4s 66 Clubs, Groups & Classes 68,70,72 & 74

  We are grateful for the support of local businesses whose adverts appear in this publication and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions, claims made by advertisers or endorse companies, products or services. This publication, its contents and advert designs are © of In and Around Publishing. Any copying or reproduction in part or fully, is strictly forbidden without our prior consent.

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ton End School is an Independent Preparatory Day school located in over 6 acres of rural countryside on the outskirts of Datchet.

One chil�hoo�

We welcome boys age 3 – 7 and girls age 3 – 11. Pastoral care is our strength and personal development is as important as academic attainment.

   “The pace and variety

of activities and learning initiatives across the school are stunning” Current Parent, Autumn 2011

One E�ucation

Eton End School 35 Eton Road • Datchet • Berkshire • SL3 9AX Tel: 01753 541075 Email: admin@etonend.org Website: www.etonend.org For further information or to arrange a visit please contact our Registrar

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Mr Brin Rosser 1936 - 2015

Former President & Member of Iver Heath Drama Club Our Chairman, Sandra Corcoran, spoke with Brin’s family who have confirmed that he passed away peacefully in his sleep.

Brin joined in 1984 and had directed, produced and starred in many IHDC shows. Brin Rosser was also a professional actor appearing in V for Vendetta (2005), Off We Go Then (2008) and Hourglass (2000). Brin had retired from IHDC with some ill health but continued with some professional work, visiting family by the coast and hosting tours of Wembley Stadium. I have many fond memories of Brin with his passion and energy for drama in our community and was never frightened of experimentation too. I once appeared in a play called “In Room Five Hundred and Four” which, thanks to Brin and my co-star Claire Freeman, was I play I fell deeply in love with. His death has motivated me to start scanning in the boxes of archive material, some of it dating from 1954! You can see the old programmes on the drama club Facebook page. And www.ihdc.co.uk Why not have a browse and comment with your memories? I cannot think of a better way to remember Brin, than remembering the good times we had with him and the passion he had for IHDC. – Written by Matt Streuli Brin’s funeral was held on Monday 23rd March at 3pm at Reading Crematorium. The family had asked for no flowers but donations are very welcome here instead:

http://www.memorygiving.com/brinrosser

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Ann Rennie is an experienced coach, mentor and trainer. She is based in Iver Heath and works through Skype and by phone with a wide range of clients. She has a corporate background which combines sales, customer service and managing major projects. Her real passion is supporting individuals in making the changes in their thinking and behaviour that produce a transformation in the results they experience. With qualifications in NLP, sales and retail management and project management she  draws on her own experience of what works in the real world with best practice from current research to cre ate bespoke solutions. Her mantra is ‘don’t get it perfect, get it done’ and her focus on taking action led a client to describe working with her as ‘like having your own personal business supernanny’.

               It is a great time to start any big changes you have planned or to reboot some from earlier in the year that might have slowed down as your enthusiasm faded or you had the winter blues descend. In this short article I wondered if it might be an idea to look at just a few things that it is useful to consider about how change works and what makes it stick.

       Seems obvious but you are more likely to change a habit and create new positive ones if you are clear what the changes will give you when they get established. Make it something that is massively important to you – ask yourself how much you want the change and are you willing to do anything to get it going and keep it going? Unless you get an emphatic yes back then don’t set yourself up for failure. Now, you have 2 choices – forget about it or explore the root of your resistance. Your brain – the emotional side will overpower the rational side. Many psychologists describe how all of us have 2 systems at work in our brains. The first is an emotional side (the doer) and is sometimes described as instinctive. It feels pain and pleasure and wants instant gratification. It brings energy to the process. The second (the planner) is the analytical side. It reflects and reviews and looks into the future. It brings direction. If the two are aligned then 10

fantastic – success and it feels almost effortless. When they are not – watch out because the emotional usually wins! Think about failed diets, multiple times trying to quit smoking and any other time when you derail a change you started with enthusiasm. Both the planner and the doer need to be satisfied for you to succeed longterm.

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can make great plans and be full of excitement and then you must do something to make progress. To finish the change you have to start somewhere. If you are someone who favours the planner and loves to keep analysing you need to give yourself a deadline to move to action. You then need to focus on each step in turn – don’t try and pay attention to all the actions, steps and activities at the same time. You will be overwhelmed. And then keep going.

  Make small bitesize targets to reach and to notice the progress as you go forward in real time. It makes it more likely that when you hit an obstacle you will see it as a hiccup rather than a catastrophe. And the doer loves recognition so celebrate each step. I’ll avoid the cheesy pun of ‘springing into action’ but maybe you can use the season to rerejuvenate your dreams and make yourself some commitments to start afresh just for you.

The Grass Is Greener...   Or Is It? 

You don’t need to be a weatherman (or woman) to know that the UK isn’t blessed with the most desirable of climates. Our weather is unreliable and generally takes the middle ground in terms of heat, cold, sun, cloud, rain and snow. There’s not enough of any to be worthy of note, except on the odd few days when it veers to an extreme - so unusual it makes headline news. Still, every cloud has a silver lining…literally! This temperate climate means we can have gorgeous gardens during the summer without having the worry of hosepipe bans and scorching heatwaves. For most, the cornerstone of outdoor living is the lawn – the canvas for horticultural artistry. Even if you aren’t green fingered, it is likely that more of your garden will be given over to lawn than any other single feature. Unfortunately, if your grass looks more grazing meadow than bowling green, a beautiful space will elude you until it’s sorted. But where do you start, and what do you need?

Analysis

Is your soil chalk, clay or sand? 12

Do you have a problem with any particular types of weeds and pests. Are there any bare patches and what’s causing them (e.g. pets)? Is the lawn type suitable for purpose – the finest blades aren’t going to stand up to footie with the kids.

Equipment

If your lawnmower hasn’t had any maintenance in years, the blades are blunt, and the blade height is difficult to adjust, you need to choose between a service or a new model. But lawns also need scarification (removing moss and other debris) and aeration (small holes in the ground to allow air, water and nutrients to circulate) and both of these require specific tools.

Products

Plenty of water of course, but no garden reaches its full potential without products to feed the growth and kill the weeds. These are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased at most DIY stores and garden centres. However, if you don’t know what you are doing, you can waste money or worse do damage; many a garden has been scorched by an over enthusiastic application of fertilizer.

By Annie Wilson Time

Oh yes, that elusive element, lack of which is the enemy of any outdoor plans. If you can’t be consistent with your maintenance, it’s hardly worth starting. It’s all very well being enthusiastic in March and April, but if you’ve lost interest by July, both time and money will be wasted.

The Professionals

Feeling enthused? Or overwhelmed and resigned to golden yellow thatch instead of a glorious green sward? It is possible with research, time, dedication and money to achieve great results taking the DIY route. But in reality it’s a job many just don’t enjoy doing and consequently the professional lawn treatment market has rocketed over the last few years. Most people do still like to mow their own lawns (although many even outsource that these days), but buying and storing expensive equipment and carrying out lawn work, is a job better left to those that do it all the time . With treatments starting at from around £15 a visit (4 - 6 visits a year), you could spend more on the fuel taking you to and from the garden centre.

Bertram’s at Smith’s Garden Centre, is more than just a Café……

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When Bertram Thomas Smith started growing in his two small green houses back in 1931, he would never have believed that over eight decades later, a Café would be named in his honour. Bertram’s Café is now a well-established and much loved eatery amongst it’s regulars. But to others, it’s an unknown and hidden gem!

On Sundays the roast is “Legendary” said one fan recently. “We come here often as the

food is amazing and such good value”. It’s no surprise really as the Sunday Lunch Carvery at Bertram’s offers a choice of two fresh joints of meat, freshly cooked vegetables and roast potatoes, all made in house. Bertram’s Big Breakfast is also a favourite with regulars and is available all day. Or for those who might want a ‘proper drink’, Bertram’s is also licensed so you can enjoy a glass of wine or beer with your meal.

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Afternoo

Popular for those small celebrations is the ‘Afternoon Tea’ Menu, a delight of freshly made sandwiches, cakes, pastries and lots of tea!

Open from 8am weekdays, with free wifi and free parking, Bertram’s is the ideal place for a meeting too. You can reserve a table and even enjoy a ‘Breakfast Platter’ of fresh pastries for your group, just call to book.

Smith’s Su

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So pop into Bertram’s Café today and try out the menu, there are also meal deals and special daily offers too. Smith’s Nurseries, 95 Oxford Road, New Denham, UB9 4DE Tel; 01895 233844

Join us on Facebook or Twitter or visit the website www.smiths-nurseries.co.uk

Bertram's Café

Property

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 I recently noticed a lock up garage in a “much sought after area” for sale for £20,000. It was one of a row of garages, the kind of thing that was popular in the 60s and 70s when car ownership became much more widespread but a lot of houses did not have a garage. This seemed like a lot of money for a ramshackle building not much bigger than a garden shed with no windows and no elec tricity. Besides, who would want to park their car half a mile from where they live? A quick search on Rightmove revealed quite a few old lock ups for sale, many of them in not particu larly desirable areas, all on the market for between £15 and 20,000. There is an explanation for this phenomenon. Many of the areas that have become gentrified over the last 20 years or so have housing stock predominantly made up of terraces that have no off street parking; even the amount of on street parking is limited. For an up and coming young executive with a £50,000 car, the idea of shelling out a fraction of that amount to protect his pride 14

and joy is a tempting one. Another growing trend is owning a classic car or track day car that is only used occasionally. Such vehicles really do need to be kept in a garage. If the garage happens to be half a mile away, that isn’t a problem – the owner can drive there in their everyday car. For those looking to make a modest investment in commercial property, a lock up garage makes a lot of sense. The rental income from a single garage is typically £7080 per month. If you paid £15,000 for the property, that would mean a yield of between 5.6 and 6.4%, not bad for a property that requires virtually no maintenance and is not subject to any regulation. Increasingly, lock ups are being demol ished for use as building land. Now is a good time to buy. 

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APRIL EVENTS Easter Egg Hunt 3rd, 4th & 6th April (closed Easter Sunday) Smiths Nurseries Ltd, 95 Oxford Road, New Denham, UB9 4DE. Free Easter Egg hunt for children, over the Easter weekend. Find all the hidden eggs around the store and win a mini egg. All entries will then be entered into a grand draw for a Fabulous Easter Basket prize worth over £20. For full details see www.smiths-nurseries.co.uk.

Local Events

Ruislip & Northwood Flower Arrangement Society AGM 7th April, 7pm for 7.30pm Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue, Oaklands Gate, Northwood, HA6 3AA. No entry charge, refreshments available with a talk to follow. HUBB Business Breakfast Event 9th April, 8am-9am Bay Lodge, 36 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1PH. Networking with local professionals and in partnership with the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce. ‘10 Steps to Better B2B Digital Marketing’ Presentation by guest speaker Elizabeth Malone-Johnstone from Digitise. Coffee & pastries. For details email: helen.thompson@ wardwilliams.co.uk. FREE Meditation Event 11th April, 2.30pm-5pm Ickenham Village Hall, 33 Swakeleys Road, UB10 8DG. FREE event but booking is required. Call 07970 147967 / 0208 574 3699 or visit www.brahmakumaris.org/uk

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Security Bike Marking 11th April Bikewise, Ickenham. Please check before the date if you are considering bringing your bike along as the service is provided by your local PCSO's.

Denham Bowls Club Open Day 11th April, 10am-3pm Denham Way, (off Old Mill Road), Denham, UB9 4ED. Everyone of any age is welcome to come along to Denham Lawn Bowls Club to have a look around and have some free coaching. All equipment will be supplied, just wear flat shoes. Tea/Coffee available + bar opens at Midday. Whether you wish to bowl for fun or in competition our members will welcome you for more info contact Jennifer Johns 01895 833845.

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The Inlands Waterways Association 14th April, 7.30pm Hillingdon Canal Club (HCC), Waterloo Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX. (opposite the General Elliott pub) Speaker Richard Thomas on ‘The Panama Canal’. For details please email Lucy Smith on middlesex. socials@waterways.org.uk. Butterflies Indulgence Evening in aid of "The Little Princess Trust" 16th April, 7pm-10pm The Village Hall, Ickenham, UB10 8DG. Treat yourself to some ‘you’ time. Various treatments, Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Indian head massage, Reiki and many more. £10 a 30 minute treatment and Workshops £3 each. To book or need more detail call Vera on 01895 635224. Harefield Amateur Dramatic Society present Bedroom Farce 16-18th April, 7.30pm for 8pm St Marys Church Hall High Street, Harefield, UB9 6BX The classic comedy by Alan Ayckbourn takes place in three bedrooms during one night and the following morning revolves around four married couples. At the beginning of the play, the oldest couple are getting ready to

DON'T MISS THE DEADLINE! If you would like us to publicise your event in our May issues contact us no later than Friday 10th April.

go out for a meal to celebrate their wedding anniversary; the youngest couple are about to host a housewarming party, to which the other two couples have been invited. All three preparation are doomed to disaster, by the martial problems of Trevor and Susannah who descend on each couple in turn, leaving chaos in their wake. For tickets contact 01895 253346 or email: janscurr@hotmail.com. Tickets cost £9.50 with concessions on Thurs evening only £7.50. Stamp Fair 18th April, 10am-4.30pm The Ruislip Methodist Church Hall, Ickenham Road, HA4 7DQ. We have been in existence for 34 years! Other dates available when required. Beginners of any age most welcome! For further details call 01895 637283.

FREE Family Fun Day 26th April, 2pm-4pm St Leonards Hall, Richings Park, Bucks., SL0 9DD. Hart Entertainments presents a FREE family games event - Bring out the Dads! This fun family games event lasts 2 hours provides a 5 section 'wave of games' flow: 1) Welcome warm up, getting to know each other. 2) Energy busters. 3) Team games. 4) Equipment games. 5) Relaxation, Chillout. Free for all the family, booking is recommended. For more details and to book call 07747 063149 or visit www.zoehart.co.uk.

   

Greetings again, words fans. At time of writing, I'm quite bemused that a few people have recognised me in the street from my previous entry and come up to me to say about it. And only some of those were accompanied by threats of physical violence. Although it was handy in a way, as it reminded me that I'm way overdue churning out this month's literary masterpiece. So as I'm sat here tapping away at my laptop in Uxbridge library (I still miss having a library in Iver), I thought I'd write a bit about my own connections with the area and what started me on my personal love of local history and heritage. My great grand parents on my father's side, Joseph and Florence Gathergood, moved to Iver in the 1920s from Houn slow, for Joe to take over as general manager of Platt's Stores, which was in the High Street on the roundabout on the corner to Bangors Road, and nowadays is a general convenience store. They had three children – Barbara, the eldest, Josephine, my grandmother, and – born after the move to Iver – George.

up to anyone that tried to taunt her. Even in their late years, they still used to call each other “Bonnet” (George) and “Maggot” (Josie), stemming from some improvised early childhood game that I did once have described to me but have sadly long since forgotten. George, going by my Grandma's accounts, was a practical joker and mischief maker, and I heard many tales of how he used to race down the hill in the High Street on rollerskates, or how one time, after choir practice at St. Peter's church, he supposedly tied another choirboy to a tombstone, presumably in response to some prior shenanigans. George went on to marry Betty Tarr, whose family ran The Chequers pub just along from Platt's. Barbara was the more headstrong one, and by some accounts was a bit of a hellraiser in her youth, in the nicest of ways of course. As far back as I can remember from my own childhood, Josie and Barbara would frequently squabble and have minor falling outs. Naturally, whenever one was ill or in need, the other would be the first to rush round to see what they could do to help.

Of the three siblings, Josie and George were the close ones. In particular, Josie was always very shy In World War II, Josie worked in admin on Hawker's and unhappy about her weak vision as a young airfield in Langley, which is only a few streets away child, and George always looked after her and stood from where the housing estate where my own child 20

hood home was later built. It was at Hawkers that she met my grandfather, Allan, who worked on the airfield servicing the Hawker Hurricane bomber planes. Soon after the war ended they got married; Allan brought a patch of land in Meadfield Road, Langley, again only a few streets away from the old airfield, and built his own bungalow. Many of my earliest memories are playing in, or just sitting and gazing at, the huge sprawling garden, which seemed to be in eternal sunshine. Allan went on to enter many horticultural shows and contests, and won countless cups and trophies. It came as a surprise to me to learn relatively recently that he wasn't always naturally 'green fingered' – when he brought the land in Meadfield Road after the war, apparently Josie had expressed concern about what would be the garden in what was basically just wasteland. My great Grandmother, Allan's mother (who lived to just short of 100 and I knew as “Great Nan(ny)”) assured her “Don't worry. Son will sort it out”. Sure enough he did. Allan built upon the aircraft servicing skills he'd gained during the war, and for most of his working life worked for British Airways at Heathrow Airport. Josie held various jobs over the years, many of them secretarial and admin, but most of the jobs I can remember her doing from my childhood was in vari ous charity shops, as she loved to be around people, and was very like me in that she never fully grew up; she always had that childlike quality where she could never fully resist show ing off a bit or deliberately doing something wrong to entertain others.

Gathergood”, but Allan was typically referred to as “Allan Gathergood”, whereas Allan's surname was actually Burfoot. In case you're wondering, I've often been called Gathergood for similar reasons, as I'm a Burfoot too. So closely was I associated with this  name that back in my performing days I used it as my stage name. A few years ago I legally changed my surname to Gathergood, so much do I associate myself with that side of the family, and to effectively always have part of my Grandma with me. Allan passed away in 1993, after longrunning health problems. Thankfully Josie never had much time to feel lonely as they had made many new friends on their return to Iver, such as Dorothy Marshall, a very 'old school' but very likeable retired headmistress who lived three bungalows along. Her and Josie's friendship at times resembled some old 1970s com edy sketch, with Dorothy as the strict teacher figure and Josie the 'naughty child', who's outspokenness would often leave the prim Dorothy in unintentionally hilarious fits of shock and horror. Prior to Allan's death, George also passed away in the early 1990s (oddly, the three Gathergood siblings died in reverse age order); Barbara by this time was living in Iver Heath (she lived in several houses around the Ivers over the years; George and Betty had moved down to the south coast in the mid1980s), and beyond their obligatory bickering, herself and Josie shared many days out and adventures in their late years. Barbara was the last of the three to go, pass ing away in 2011.

In more recent years, as many familiar local faces, such as Dorothy and various others, passed away, I shudder with sadness at the local knowledge As the years passed and Allan and memories they took with and Josie both retired, and them that I regret not recording Allan began to suffer some more fully. None more so than in years of ill health, upkeep of the case of Josie herself, who died the large bungalow in Mead   in 2007. Thankfully she went fairly field Road  in particular the      suddenly; if she had pulled through sprawling garden  gradually    became too much for them,   but been left ill, not able to leap here      on buses and there on days out as and in 1988 they bought a    the mood took her, she wouldn't smaller bungalow and have been Josie any more. But I'd moved back to Iver. Of course, in reality it's that much of what I do now, regard only a stone's throw up the road from Langley, but h o p e my grandmother treated it as though they had trav ing the history and heritage in our area, and working elled the world and now were “returning home”! with with families, children and various community (Although ironically, thanks to my grandfather's job groups, would please her that the job was well done with BA, they had indeed toured the world, often in passing it on. The fact that it was my posting jetting off for last minute trips as cancelled tickets online, on a whim, the old photograph of herself and became available. In an era when the world was still the other Gathergoods stood outside of Platt's Stores slightly smaller and going overseas was still some some 80+ years ago, that first led to me doing so what 'exotic', the trinkets and souvenirs from their much of that, I hope would be an added bonus for travels that always adorned their bungalow seemed her. all the more magical to my untravelled young eyes). instagram.com/pj_gathergood facebook.com/groups/ivermemories/ (or search It's amusing to note that, as the name Gathergood “Ivers and Langley Community & Memories”) was still so recognised in Iver from Platt's, not only was Josie still usually referred to as “(Little) Josie www.gathergoodtimes.wordpress.com 

 

  







Recruiting NOW Foster carers and adopters needed    

Find out more at our information events Tuesday 21 April, 6.30pm to 8.30pm Tuesday 12 May, 6.30pm to 8.30pm Civic Centre, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW Please arrive five minutes before the start time.

Book your place today

fost-adopt@ hillingdon.gov.uk 0800 783 1298

www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fost-adopt 23

Home & Interiors

 Charming Country Style By Katherine Sorrell  

Cosy, comfortable and oh-so pretty, country style has eternal appeal. Think roses winding around the porch, crackling log fires, chickens in the yard and a Victoria sponge cooling on the range cooker. As interiors expert Katherine Sorrell says, who could resist? Moving to the country may be a fantasy for many of us, but even if you can’t actually make the move, you can evoke a charming country style in your home. The aim is to create a look that appears to have evolved naturally over time. Overall, choose either off-white or pastel walls, or perhaps a block-printed wallpaper, the latter featuring delicate, trailing florals or something more bold and blowsy. Tactile, natural floor coverings such as sisal, jute or coir have the right kind of honest and hard-working good looks, while rugs are warm and practical. With furniture, keep an eye on 24

balance and proportion. You can put all kinds of styles together if you keep an eye on their size and scale. It might be a Georgian, Victorian or early 20th century piece, antique, junk-shop, handme-down or home-made, but it should never look overtly modern and always be sturdy, simple and generously sized. Squashy sofas, big armchairs, plain wooden chairs, benches and stools, and the occasional wirework or Lloyd Loom piece are all key. Add dining chairs with ladder or spindle backs, plus a scrubbed-pine table, and complement them with a large, open dresser. Some distressed paintwork here and there enhances the overall effect. When choosing fabrics, an informal mix of gently worn patterns gives a lovely effect. Texture is as important as pattern, so opt for a combination that could include florals, tweed, ginghams, stripes, polka dots, paisley, tapestry, embroidery and textured plains such as linen, wool, velvet or mohair. For a hand-made, vintage feel, include some knitting or crochet, too. Window treatments should be understated – perhaps a Roman blind with a decorative trim, or a pair of full-length, gathered curtains and a simple pelmet. As for upholstery, ensure it is well-stuffed and comfortable. Piping looks smart and traditional, but the

occasional frilled edging can be delightful. Complete the effect with piles of throws, blankets and cushions of all shapes and sizes. Lighting can make or break a room. Add table and floor lamps to brighten corners and illuminate work areas: wrought iron, brass, turned-wood, frillyedged glass, plaster or ceramic bases, with understated fabric or card shades, are all great choices. A few candles dotted here and there and, of course, the appealing flicker of a real fire, will really enhance the atmosphere. As for accessories, any number of extra touches will transform your home into a special country retreat. For walls, it might be watercolour landscapes or botanical prints, needlepoint or crossstitch samplers or wood-block illustrations, Wicker baskets and wooden boxes make good-looking storage solutions, while it goes without saying that chintz, blue-and-white or spongeware crockery is just the thing for displaying on the dresser. You could even make a display from cooking equipment such as jelly moulds or copper pans. To finish the whole look off, arrange masses of fresh flowers in informal containers – jam jars, mugs or enamel pitchers, perhaps – to give a fresh scent of the country, whatever your location. Main Image - Alderney Armchair in Design Lab Occipinti Wisteria White and Purple, £635, Sofa.com, 0845 400 2222.

   

Beauty   Spring into Summer  by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk  Ah spring… time to scrabble I in the loft for skirts and sleeveless dresses, pack the winter woollies away and maybe even hit the shops to see what new trends will tempt us. And, of course, it’s not just clothes that change with the seasons. Make-up follows its own fashions and this year there are a few surprises in store. The lightly bronzed skin and pearly pale eyeshadow that we’ve come to expect from spring/summer are making an appearance again, but we’re also seeing bright red lips, black eyeliner and splashes of bold colour.

angerine is a key colour for spring this year. It can be surprisingly wearable if you stick to just a splash. Think a tangerine clutch, necklace or nail varnish. Not convinced? Apricot is a good alternative. We particularly love the new Colour Crush Nail Varnish in Apricot Kiss, by The Body Shop. It’s quick drying and a steal at £5.

f you haven’t already booked yourself in for a post-winter facial, now’s the time to do so. Cold winds and air conditioning are not the best combination for great looking skin. A facial can help to give you your ‘glow’ back. Keep the good work up at home, with an all over exfoliation and moisture boost. Think scrubs, oils and nourishing masks. And we mean all over. It’s easy to neglect our hands, lips and feet, so do give them the attention they deserve. Try the Mini Pamper Kit by Olivier Bonas, with its shea butter enriched hand cream and lip balm. £15 from www. oliverbonas.com

h the joy of opening a pristine new eyeshadow palette. The Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette was on many a girl’s Christmas wish list last year, but it pretty much caused a stampede when it was launched and was out of stock in no time. And for good reason. Urban Decay just

know how to do palettes. They combine colours that really work together and (unlike cheaper alternatives) stay put from morning ‘til night. The latest offering features an array of neutral colours that work on most skin-tones, from shimmering baby pink to smokey-eye essentials. Thankfully, the frenzy has now died down, and you can pick up your new palette from House of Fraser for £38.

frequently we use a perfume, the less we can detect it. Spring is the perfect time to treat yourself to a new fragrance; while we crave warm, sensual fragrances in winter, the new season demands a lighter, fresher scent. The newly released Guerlain La Petite Robe is a good contender, as it teams rose with the freshness of bergamot and just a hint of raspberry. However, if you’re looking for a real show-stopper, that’s unashamedly feminine, you can’t beat Lancome La Vie Est Belle. Iris, jasmine, orange blossom and patchouli combine to create a fragrance that will get heads turning. From £45 at Debenhams.

   

t is all too easy to get stuck in a perfume rut, spritzing our ‘signature scent’ on day after day. But the more

Designer Life (Apr15)_Layout 1 27/03/2015 16:23 Page 1

The Power of Listening THESE are some of the things we think and say when we feel unheard. Whether it’s our children, spouse, friends, family, boss, we have encountered not being listened to and know how frustrating that can be at times.



On the other hand, it could also be us who are not listening…

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’.

People who listen tend to respond more effectively and tend to offer superior solutions that come from retrieving quality information and facts beforehand, the person, or persons then feel they have been clearly understood and value the opinion. There are times when we don’t listen to our spouse, our children our colleagues or friends… Often we think we are, but we are either distracted or simply don’t know how to listen. Can you think of times when you have not listened to someone close to you? In this respect, listening is a gift, a gift we can give to others. By listening we pay someone a compliment, demonstrating to them that we care about what they have to say. I was reminded recently of the fact that we have two ears and one mouth, which maybe our Creator’s way of saying we should ‘listen more and speak less.’ As a trained and qualified coach one of the things we need to do well is listen. When I first began my training as a Coach I read about the “4 levels of listening” and although there is more detailed information around this subject, I am going to share these simple levels that I learned over 10 years ago which have become very valuable to me, not just in my coaching practice, but in my marriage, with my family and with my friends. THE 4 LEVELS OF LISTENING 1. Cosmetic – looks like you are listening, but you are someplace else, you may say “what did you just say?” 2. Conversational – you are engaged, listening, talking, thinking, listening, thinking, talking etc 3. Active – you focused on what is being said, recording facts and paying attention, processing and clarifying the information 4. Deep – you are focused on the person talking, more than on yourself, you get a sense of who they are, and what they are really saying or meaning, your mind (as the listener) maybe quiet or calm and you are totally present. There are appropriate times to use the different levels of listening, so I leave that up to you to decide which level is best when. “Seek first to understand and then you will be understood” Ref Source; The Coaching Manual by Julie Starr

Neelam

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holidays

In and Around

Call 01895 83 33 33 for bookings and information

FULL BOARD PLUS FROM

£999pp

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Escorted Holiday by Rail or Air 22 Sept, 2015 - Quote RN9-IA Join us for a scenic, fun-packed cruise onboard the 4-star mps Rembrandt Van Rijn taking in Cologne, Koblenz, Cochem, Zell, Rudesheim and Boppard, where you’ll see the Rhine in Flames festival. This spectacular pyrotechnics show also features an illuminated flotilla of riverboats. Also enjoy the Boppard Wine Festival featuring wines from local vineyards, live music and entertainment.

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INCLUDED: Escorted throughout abroad • Return rail travel from St Pancras (from Ebbsfleet on request) to Brussels with coach transfer to Cologne or return flights with luggage from a choice of UK airports - supp’t may apply • 7-night full board cruise sharing a twin bed, main deck rear cabin - upgrades available • Beer, wine by the glass, and soft drinks served at lunch and dinner and from 6pm to midnight at the bar • Entertainment • Transfers abroad

Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays Closed Bank Holiday weekends.

GN Voyages

2015-16

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2015 Coach Holidays & Great Days

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Departing from *Greenford, Harrow Ruislip, Uxbridge, Slough Maidenhead & *Staines

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Call for Brochures 30

Cruises & Escorted Holidays by Rail & Air

Escorted & River Cruise: www.gnvoyages.co.uk Coach Breaks: www.gnholidays.com

*Note: Due to drivers hours restrictions our day tours are not available from Greenford or Staines

Published: 26 January,

2015

Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough QUOTE: BC5/6/7/8-IA

QUOTE: HI5/7-IA



Bourton On The Water & Stratford Upon Avon Afternoon Tea Cruise

Prince Of Wales’ Private Garden at Highgrove & Lunch

Great Day Out, £49pp

Great Day Out, £89pp

Departures: 14 May, 11 Jun, 30 Jul, 6 & 13 Aug, 2015

Departures: Wed 20 May & Tues 21 July, 2015

INCLUDED: Free time in Bourton on the Water • 11⁄2-hour

INCLUDED: 2-hour guided tour of Prince Charles’

River Avon Cruise on the Countess of Evesham with

private garden at Highgrove • 2-course lunch at the

afternoon tea on board • Return coach travel

Hare and Hounds Hotel, Tetbury • Return coach travel

QUOTE: BU8-IA

Buckingham Palace State Rooms & Gardens plus Tea on the Thames Great Day Out, £89pp Departs Thursday 27 August, 2015 INCLUDED: Admission to Buckingham Palace State Rooms and Gardens • Afternoon Tea on the Thames on the Yacht London • Return coach travel

QUOTE: NQ9-IA

Newquay & the Cornish Riviera Plus the Eden Project 5 Days Half Board, £329pp Departs Saturday 19 September, 2015 INCLUDED: 4 nights stay at the Barrowfield Hotel, Newquay • 4 breakfasts and 4 dinners • Excursions take in St Ives, Looe, Polperro & the Eden Project • Coach travel and excursions 31

Put A Spring  In Your Step  By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk  Many of us spend a lot of time on our feet (and if we don’t, we probably should). But often they’re mistreated or neglected, potentially causing problems not just with our feet but our ankles, knees, hips and back too. So with the weather improving and country walks beckoning, how can you keep the spring in your step?

Practise Good Foot Hygiene

Wash and dry your feet thoroughly every day, taking particular care to dry between the toes. Feet can quickly become irritated and sore when they’re sweaty or dirty, and fungal infections such as Athlete’s Foot thrive in the warm, moist areas between the toes.

Beware Foot Bugs

Athlete’s Foot and Verrucas (or more properly, Verrucae) can be contracted from public areas where people go barefoot, such as swimming pools, although many provide pool shoes or antiseptic foot baths. Treat these conditions swiftly before they spread, either by using over-the counter treatments or by seeking advice from your doctor, podiatrist or chiropodist.

Find The Right Footwear Friction from Ill-fitting shoes can cause calluses (hard patches of skin) or blisters, 32

while constant pressure on a certain area can cause corns – protruding, often painful areas of hard skin with a rigid core. Blister plasters and corn treatments are available over the counter, but you may need chiropody treatment to eradicate corns for good. Ill-fitting, pointed or high-heeled shoes can also cause a bunion – a protruding big toe joint on the side of the foot caused when the first metatarsal bone and toe bone become displaced. We all know high heels are bad for our feet (and our knees, hips and back). If you really can’t resist: •

Avoid wearing them all the time (could you wear something lower while you’re travelling to your meeting or party?)

•

Vary the height of the heels you wear

•

Buy the lowest heels you can live with

Completely flat shoes can be problematic too, sometimes causing Achilles tendonitis. Always ensure the back of your leg doesn’t feel strained when buying flat shoes – the heel should always be higher than the pad. Flip-flops don’t provide proper support or protection and aren’t suitable for everyday wear, so ignore fashion and save them for the beach.

Shopping for shoes

Our feet usually swell a little throughout the day, so shoeshop in the afternoon to avoid buying shoes that are too tight – and don’t shoe-shop with sore feet. Consider the purpose of the shoes you’re buying, and what you’ll wear with them too. If you’re searching for walking boots, take thick socks along on your shopping trip, but if you’re buying heels that you’ll be wearing with tights, ensure that’s what you’re wearing when you try them on.

Protect your feet when exercising

Wear trainers designed for exercise – don’t be tempted by cheap fashion trainers that don’t provide support or let your feet breathe, as these can cause pain in your back, hips, knees and ankles. Unsupportive footwear and jogging on hard surfaces can cause heel spurs (small bony overgrowth on the heel bone) and plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the band of tissue under the sole. A proper warm up before exercise will help prevent damage to your muscles, tendons and joints. Foot problems such as corns, bunions and plantar fasciitis can be the result of biomechanical or orthopaedic problems, so always consult a podiatrist or doctor if problems persist.

   

Zoe Hart FP+ (Apr15)_Layout 1 27/03/2015 12:35 Page 1

Age appropriate music Every parents mineﬁeld? Not any more!

  

ZOE HART an international club DJ since 1999, turned Childrens Entertainer in 2012.

Hi, I’m Zoe and I run a local children’s disco service. In todays world we are constantly bombarded with information and not enough time to absorb and filter it for our children, so I thought I’d help a little, at least in the area that I’m good at. Music!

She is also a qualified yoga teacher and EI and mindfulness practitioner.

Her company ‘Hart Entertainments’ provides quality conscious discos for children of all ages in the Bucks, Middlesex and West London areas.

Each month I’ll review a selection of the top 40 hits, detailing the artists and the tracks that have caught mine and the kids attention.

www.zoehart.co.uk - 07747 063 149

YEARS AND YEARS – King

I DON’T MIND – Usher

Lovely tune, really dancey. There’s nothing in the lyrics that the kids can’t hear, but the YouTube video has quite a AGE AGE drugy image. 5-7 16+

HEARTBEAT SONG - Kelly Clarkson A really lovely song, upbeat and positive. The video is beautiful too, all the joys of innocent love and relationships. Great for teenagers who think it’ll never happen for AGE them! 0+

HOLD BACK THE RIVER - James Bay Great track from this 24 year old from Hertfordshire. Add it to your in-car journey playlist and keep your eye on this fabulous AGE young UK talent. 0+

This month’s favourite DOING IT – Charlie XCX featuring Rita Ora Surprise favorite this month from this amazing young lady from Cambridge. With support from her parents since age 14, hers is an inspiring story for any aspiring female vocalist. This track I originally thought was about having sex, but it transpires it’s about two girlfriends getting together and having the best fun ever. AGE Video not age appropriate though (16+).

10+

Another sensational track from Usher. NOT! I quite like the tune, but then the rude words kick in and it’s all very clear what it’s about. (His girlfriend is an exotic dancer, which he doesn’t mind about, just as long as he gets to call her his b**ch!) I mean really, who wants to be AGE called that as a term of endearment?

18+

LAY ME DOWN – Sam Smith featuring John Legend Beautiful song, sung very soulfully. It’s promoting gay rights marriage, you wouldn’t know that listening to it, it was only because I read Sam Smiths YouTube post that I do know. Nothing AGE inappropriate in the words or the video.

G.D.F.R. Flo Rida featuring Sage the Gemini Not a bad tune, awful lyrics don’t even make sense! They’re objectifying women whatever they’re saying.

AGE

17+

If you want a track reviewed, I do take requests. Just email me at zoe@zoehart.co.uk.

Zoe

References: mtv.co.uk, Wikipedia.co.uk, azlyrics.com, whosay.com, musicinsideu.com, lyricinterpretations.com, songfacts.com, youtube, vevo.

Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX Independent School for boys and girls aged 3 - 11

  

An ‘OUTSTANDING’ School A family-run school with a caring atmosphere. Pupils achieve excellent results in academic subjects, music, sport and drama. For further information, or to arrange a visit, please telephone 01895 234371 Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX - www.sthelenscollege.com 35

 Finance Challenger Banks:  What they Bring to  a Tired Industry 

By Ann Haldon

The UK banking industry has been severely damaged by scandals and misdeeds in recent years. The Libor incident when banks falsely manipulated interest rates, plus the infamous PPI mis-selling scandal, are just two reasons for public unease and mistrust. Poor levels of service and low saver rates have compounded a seemingly irresolvable problem, leaving customers with little recognition of the issues the banks were facing, and few alternative banking options. But help may be at hand. The ‘Big Four’ - Royal Bank of Scotland, Barclays, HSBC and Lloyds – are now facing competition from challenger banks. New entrants to the banking industry include Metro, Aldermore and Charter Savings Bank, plus the re-emergence of an old, familiar high street name. We look a little closer at some offerings from these new banks, and see if they could really be a credible threat to established institutions.

A helping hand from the Payments Council

Although we are told to regularly switch suppliers in order to get the best deal, until recently there has been a general reluctance to switch bank accounts. This has partly been due to the risk of 36

direct debit payments going awry during the switching process, but also because of the time taken to carry out the switch - previously as long as 30 working days in some instances. The introduction of a new 7-day account switching service in September 2013, however, has encouraged people to reconsider where their banking loyalties lie, and many have decided that they don’t lie with their current bank. Data released by the Payments Council shows a 12% year-on-year increase in people switching bank accounts during 2014, from 1.03 million in 2013 to 1.16 million.�Additional benefits of this new service include being able to choose the switch date, and a guarantee that customers will receive a refund for any charges and fees arising from errors in the switching process.

An old name on the high street

Not really a challenger bank, but a familiar name with a ‘new’ offering is TSB. Their strap line, “We’re different,” plus market positioning as champions of “local banking” offer a level and type of service once taken for granted when banking was a service industry rather than a huge selling machine. Here are some of the products currently on offer at TSB:

Current account • Classic Plus Account: credit interest rate of 5% variable AER on balances up to £2,000; minimum of £500 per month to be paid in; no monthly fee. Fixed Bond • Fixed interest rate of 1.35% gross/AER on £2,000+ for two years; interest paid monthly or annually. Credit card • 0% interest on purchases for up to 13 months if the 7-day switching service is used.

Metro Bank

Metro Bank operates from ‘stores’ throughout the south-east of England, with the emphasis firmly on convenience for their customers – stores are open 7 days per week, 362 days of the year. They have a familyfriendly policy that includes the Money Zone programme, in which they help children and students to learn about money management. Current account • No monthly fee; MasterCard contactless debit card; free transactions in Europe; cheque books printed while you wait. Fixed term savings • 3-year fixed rate account; annual interest rate of 1.90% gross/AER; choice of fixed rate terms of 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months and 3 years; interest

paid monthly or annually; minimum lump sum deposit of £500. Credit card • MasterCard contactless credit card; free transactions in Europe; no annual fee.

Aldermore

Aldermore has no branches, choosing to operate online and via telephone banking. This allows it to keep down costs, and its streamlined business model has been marketed towards helping small businesses and homeowners in the UK with savings and mortgage products. Fixed rate savings • 3-year fixed rate account currently offering 2.15% gross/AER annual interest; choice of fixed terms between 1 year and 5 years; a single lump sum deposit of £1,000 minimum; operated via the internet, by telephone, or post.

Charter Savings Bank

Dubbed a “UK bank for UK savers” Charter Savings Bank is another new entrant to the industry offering online and telephone banking services only. The bank is due to launch very soon, and a statement from CEO Ian Lonergan clarifies their aims, “Being granted this licence by the PRA [Prudential Regulation Authority] demonstrates the strength of our offering and the ambitious plans we have to champion savers and help them realise their financial goals.” The above are just a selection of products on offer by the banks mentioned – there are a variety of other accounts and products that may be more suitable depending on your circumstances. Modern IT systems have allowed these challenger banks to compete on a

 

different platform to traditional high street banks, which are hindered by outdated infrastructures that are costly to maintain. The absence of bricks and mortar outlets also provides an opportunity to loosen the Big Four’s stranglehold on a banking industry desperate for some fresh competition. �http://www.paymentscouncil. org.uk/media_centre/press_ releases/-/page/3177/ http://www.tsb.co.uk/ https://www.metrobankonline. co.uk/ http://www.aldermore.co.uk/ http://www.chartersavingsbank. co.uk/?gclid=COaHvayfzcMC FeHLtAodMl4Atg http://www.computerweekly. com/news/2240237680/NewK-bank-harnesses-technologyto-compete-with-high-streetgiants

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Golden Years Memories of 50 Years Ago by Ted Bruning Vampire was the world’s first single-engined jet fighter, the first jet to cross the Atlantic (in July 1948), and the first jet to take off from an aircraft carrier (oh, and to land on one); and in March 1948 it set the world altitude record of 59,446ft. (A few years later a Lightning climbed to 87,300ft!) These achievements were only accomplished on the back of other, less high-profile, advances in fields such as engine technology (English Electric experimented with a rocket-propelled version of the Lightning in the 1950s), avionics, weapons design, navigational radar, and air-to-air refuelling. Even the ejector seat was a British invention. TSR2 was to be the superplane that capped all these triumphs. A Mach 2 all-weather ultra low-level nuclear-capable twoseater penetration bomber and a hyper sophisticated high-level electronic reconnaissance spy-plane, packed with the latest avionics, it was reckoned capable of replacing every strike aircraft the RAF possessed, even the Vbombers. But TSR2’s development

costs overran horrendously; the Navy didn’t want it because it wouldn’t fly off a carrier; constant additions to the original specification handicapped its performance; and its handful of test-flights between September 1964 and March 1965 revealed a host of teething troubles that would be expensive to fix. While in opposition Labour had slated TSR2’s expense; within six months of coming to power they scrapped it. Having promised us the white heat of the technological revolution, Harold Wilson took quite a beating over the failure of TSR2. But he had maths on his side: TSR2 would have cost £16 million per plane and because American planes were built in far greater numbers and were therefore much cheaper, there was no chance of significant export sales. Scrapping it was the right decision. But that announcement in the Commons, mid-afternoon on 6th April 1965, proved the graveside prayer for an independent British military aviation industry. Since then every new RAF combat aircraft – the Jaguar, the Tornado, the Typhoon – has been a multinational effort; only the (comparatively) low-tech Hawk Trainer has been an all-British success story.

    

The introduction of Capital Gains Tax may have been the most significant measure in Jim Callaghan’s Budget of 6th April 1965. But it wasn’t what grabbed the headlines. The media spotlight fell instead on the announcement of the scrapping of Britain’s most glamorous, most prestigious, and most technologically advanced defence project of the time, possibly of all time: TSR2. It’s easy to forget that until then Britain led the world in aviation. Leaving their wartime achievements aside, in the 1940s and ‘50s British aircraft companies came up with the world’s first jet bomber (the Canberra), first delta-winged jet fighter (the Javelin), first and so far only VTOL fighter-bomber (the Harrier), first Mach 2 fighter (the Lightning), and first longrange jet bombers (the Victor, Valiant, and Vulcan). And that’s only the beginning of British aerospace achievements of the period. The De Havilland

On 24th April 1965, 2,000 people gathered at

Malham, Yorkshire, for the official opening of the final section of the Pennine Way footpath by the journalist , rambler, and visionary Tom Stephenson. Inspired by the creation of the Appalachian Way and by the 1932 Kinder Scout Mass Trespass, Stephenson founded the Pennine Way Association in 1938. The 286-mile footpath runs between Edale, Derbyshire, and Kirk Yetholm on the Scottish border. 40

Happy 50th birthdays to Robert Downey Jr (4th) and Anna Chancellor (27th). Cake and botox to you both!

Karen Munro Careers (Apr15)_Layout 1 27/03/2015 09:59 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 Career Development including effective CV Coaching, Interview Skills and Networking Techniques. 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 London and the South East. Karen also facilitates workshops and offers individual coaching to Military Personnel leaving the Armed Forces at RAF Northolt and works as an Associate Career Coach and Trainer for both Right Management and SMP Solutions. Writing for a number of career focused and military resettlement magazines she regularly contributes to ‘In and Around’ every month sharing her practical experience with her local community.

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. However, sometimes changes happen in our lives that are unwanted and unexpected. Losing your job or being made redundant is a major change. It’s up there with the stress of moving house, getting married, getting divorced and bereavement. In fact losing your job is very similar to bereavement. The five stages of Change... SHOCK! Initially, there is the shock of it happening. Just as with bereavement, sometimes it can be very hard for the news to sink in. In order to move forward it’s so important to try to accept what has happened. You cannot change the situation, so you must accept it and move forward. You need to plan your next career move. DENIAL This is a common feeling when someone loses their job or is made redundant. You want to carry on as normal and maybe things will just sort themselves out. The danger here is you stay in ‘denial’ nothing ever happens. You may feel ‘safe’ in this stage – nothing is happening – but in order to get another job or career you have to let go of this one. After all it let go of you! ANGER You will feel angry. It’s normal. You may feel rejected and unwanted, cast aside. You may take it very personally and feel anger and resentment with the organisation or individuals you worked for. But remember, this anger is not productive and will keep you focussed in the past. You need to start thinking about your future. DOUBT You will worry about what may happen to you. How will you find another job? Where will you work? What are your transferrable skills? Can you try something new? This could be an ideal time to have a few sessions with a Career Coach, to help you identify and answer these questions. ACCEPTANCE Well done! You are moving forward – you are on your way. You need to start putting together an action plan and work towards your goals. Be in control of your future – don’t let it be in control of you. 42

Change is normal and every one of us will go through all of these stages at some point in our careers and in our lives. It’s important to recognise them and accept them. It’s more important to remember to keep moving forward. Make sure your taking steps in the right direction - no matter how small the steps are – keep going. Spring is also a time to embrace positive change in your career choices. You may feel it is time to stop rolling along in the same career and routine. However, it is often difficult to know what lies ahead and it can generate a credible fear of the unknown and cause us to refuse to change at all. We may rely on others to help us and tell us what to do. 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 telling someone what to do, what is right for them, or how they need to change. It has to come from them. A good career coach will guide and help you find the answers you need yourself. They will empower you to recognise what is important to you, what your values and strengths are and help you identify what change you want make no matter how big or small. So, remember, Spring is here and it can be a great catalyst for change. “Find a job you love and you will never work again.” Churchill

Karen

“unlocking your career potential”

Answers pg 30

 And  Another

Thing...

by Tom Hughes

“Tom, I’m sick of wearing glasses, I want my eyes lasered. You should get them done too”. “Listen, the nearest I’ll get to a laser is watching Star Wars. Have you seen how much they charge? It’s eye watering”. Pleased with my little joke, I returned to my copy of Ford Mondeo Monthly. Sarah however, was not for dissuading. “OK then, what about contact lenses?” “No. I’m happy with my glasses. I like looking over them at people. It makes me feel superior”. “Well you can feel superior tomorrow, we’ve got a double appointment at the Opticians”. I hate Opticians, it’s the fear of getting the test wrong and feeling stupid. I usually end up guessing. And I don’t like sitting in the dark either. The sliding doors swished open and we were greeted by a nice young man who I guessed from the green name badge went by the name of Adam. I thought I’d put him at 44

his ease.

tested you before, have I?”

“Hello. I’ve just been next door to Co-Op Travel asking about an eye test and they told me to come in here”.

“I don’t think so”.

“Tom stop it, he won’t get your silly joke”, Sarah said. “Very well sir, have you an appointment?” “Yes. Mr and Mrs Hughes”. “One moment please. I’ll go and speak to our Optician”. Sarah took her seat while I went to examine some frames. “What do you think of these darling?” “Put them back, you look like Michael Gove”. A chubby little man with a built up shoe limped into reception “Mr Hughes?” I nodded, gulping nervously. A fat index finger beckoned me inside. “Come with me dear”. Dear? I looked at Sarah, who urged me to follow saying, “Go on, we haven’t got all day.... dear”. He paused at the door to his torture chamber, looked me up and down and said, “I’ve not....

“No. I’d have remembered. Come in then”. Through his enormous lenses his big saucer eyes bored into me. Sat in the hot seat, I watched as he removed his glasses and began cleaning them with his tie. He looked up at me once more. His eyes had disappeared! Then back on went the glasses and...zoom! The huge pupils returned. “Now relax while I dim the lights”. If I wasn’t nervous beforehand, I was now. Letters appeared on the whiteboard opposite. My torturer settled in besides me, a little too close for comfort for my liking. “Now can you read left to right, top to bottom”. “K no er, Y? “Now Tom, don’t guess”. The letter business over, the Optician then did something really weird. Grabbing a torch, he put his face right next to

mine, as in right next, and shone it into my eyes. All I could hear and feel was his breath on my cheek. When, for a second, our noses touched, it was all I could do to stay seated.

over a small fortune we both stumbled outside, now with our twenty twenty vision supposedly restored.

  

Outside in reception I found Sarah, relaxing after her examination.

“Well I won’t be going in there again. I nearly chinned him. I thought he was going to throw the lips on me”. “Tom, he uses an ophthalmoscope to test for high blood pressure, you dope”. “Oh, well he could have told me”. Then it was time for our contact lenses. Adam demonstrated the technique for putting them in. We followed suit. After handing

As we groped our way to the car park, I could hear people tutting and oh-dearing as we passed.

One elderly lady stopped me and taking hold of my hand said, “Whatever tragedy has happened my loves, remember, time is a great healer”.

I looked at Sarah, she looked at me. Our eyes were both red and streaming. “I can’t see a blooming thing”. “Neither can I”. “Look this is ridiculous, let’s go back”. We retraced our steps

down the high street, doing our best to avoid the lamp posts. Eventually we made it back to the shop. “Listen, can we change our minds? We just need to buy some normal glasses”. “That’s no problem sir, but I think you’ll have to try next door. This is Co-Op Travel”. Follow Tom’s escapades at groomsdaybook.com Twitter @groomsdaybook

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Published: 26 January,

2015

Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough QUOTE: BC5/6/7/8-IA

QUOTE: HI5/7-IA



Bourton On The Water & Stratford Upon Avon Afternoon Tea Cruise

Prince Of Wales’ Private Garden at Highgrove & Lunch

Great Day Out, £49pp

Great Day Out, £89pp

Departures: 14 May, 11 Jun, 30 Jul, 6 & 13 Aug, 2015

Departures: Wed 20 May & Tues 21 July, 2015

INCLUDED: Free time in Bourton on the Water • 11⁄2-hour

INCLUDED: 2-hour guided tour of Prince Charles’

River Avon Cruise on the Countess of Evesham with

private garden at Highgrove • 2-course lunch at the

afternoon tea on board • Return coach travel

Hare and Hounds Hotel, Tetbury • Return coach travel

QUOTE: BU8-IA

QUOTE: NQ9-IA

Dated Events (Apr15)_Layout 1 27/03/2015 14:04 Page 2

APRIL EVENTS

popular ‘home grown’ selection of runner beans, chilli peppers, sweet peppers, tomatoes, hanging baskets etc. Due to unprecedented demand last year for our hanging baskets, we have decided this year to take pre-sale orders. To place an order call Lion David Minchin on 020 8868 0495.



Local Park & Events April into May continued 48

Cocktails, Canapes and a Catwalk with Candlelight in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support 30th April, from 8pm at Pinewood Studios Organised by the Gerrards Cross & District Fundraising Group, with Cocktails & Canapes prepared by a local Michelin starred chef. Fashions and accessories from Hush Boutique and Lemmings Menswear. For tickets, £30 each, and more details contact Tracey Boden on 01753 892303 or macmillangxfashionandmore@ hotmail.com or visit the website at www.met1.co.uk/macmillan.

MAY EVENTS Stamp Fair 2nd May, 10am-4.30pm The Ruislip Methodist Church Hall, Ickenham Road, HA4 7DQ. We have been in existence for 34 years! This will be a monthly event after June Fair with dates fixed through to the end of the year. Other dates available when required. Beginners of any age welcome! Call 01895 637283. Ruislip & Northwood Flower Arrangement Society Talk 5th May, 7pm for 7.30pm Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue, Oaklands Gate, Northwood, HA6 3AA. National demonstrator Pat Dibben talks about "The Fascination of Flowers" Cost to visitors £5. Annual Plant Sale fundraising for Ruislip Lions 9th May, 10am-12.30pm Ruislip Rugby Club, West End Road. Ample free parking. Large selection of bedding plants, shrubs, pot plants plus our very

Security Bike Marking 23rd May Bikewise, Ickenham. Please check before the date if you are considering bringing your bike along as the service is provided by your local PCSO's.

LIVE MUSIC EVENTS The Swan at Iver 2 High Street, Iver, SL0 9NG. 10th April Return of 2 Tone 17th April Jump the Gunn 24th April Returning great show with The Flyers

Plant Sale 9th May, 10am-12.30pm Michael Sobell Hospice, Gate 3, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood. This annual horticultural event is once again being organised by our award winning gardening team. Come and buy your Spring and Summer bedding plants, flowers and fruit ‘n’ veg. Entry and parking is free. Refreshments will be available. For more info go to www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk or call 01923 844550. Mind, Body & Spirit Event 9th-10th May, 2.30pm-5pm Watersemeet, Ricksmansworth, WD3 1EH. A relaxing event with something for everyone. Visit the website www.phoenixmbsevents.co.uk On Yer Bike 17th May, 7.30am for 8am Michael Sobell Hospice, Gate 3, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood. Put your fitness levels to the test and take on our 33 mile sponsored bike ride challenge. The route will start and finish at the hospice and takes riders through Amersham, Bovingdon and Hemel Hempstead. Pre-registration £15 or £20 on the day. For more info www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk or call 01923 844829.

The WatersEdge Packet Boat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. 3rd May Join us to celebrate 10 years at The Watersedge - bbq from 2pm with live music from 4pm. The Whip & Collar 135 Swallow Street, Iver Heath, SL0 0HU. 5th April Live Music with Mark Kelly from 4-7pm. 25th April Rod Stewart Tribute. Tropic at Ruislip Ruislip Social Club, Grosvenor Vale, Ruislip, HA4 6JQ 11th April Albie J as Michael Bublé 17th April April Bravado (play Rush) 24th April The Trembling Wilburys 26th April Buddy Holly & The Rat Pack Show For full details and tickets see www.tropicatruislip.co.uk or call 020 8707 2256

DON'T MISS THE DEADLINE! If you would like us to publicise your event in our May issues contact us no later than Friday 10th April.

  Building Construction/Bricklaying   Extensions & Loft Conversions  Patio/Paths/Block Pave Driveways  Decking   Kitchen & Bathroom Installation  Plumbing & Heating   Electrical Services Rewires      

Plastering & Tiling Painting & Decorating Fencing Roofing Carpentry & Joinery UPVC Fascias & Guttering

Beauty

 Short Story The Stakeout



by Jackie Brewster

Maurice poured another cup lawn while he enjoyed of strong coffee and stretched his one cigarette of out his stiff legs. This was the evening. The dog his first stakeout and while scampered up to there been no activity Maurice and sniffed byhad Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk in the cul-de-sac for an hour around at the empty he suspected things could sandwich wrapper. f you haven’t already change quickly. time to scrabble Ah spring… “Shoo Boris!” Maurice booked yourself in loft for Allin thethe residents wereskirts now and whispered urgently. for a post-winter facial, present and correct. The pack The sleeveless dresses, thelast thing he Caffertys, at number 2, had needed was to have his now’s the time to do winter woollies away and drawn their lounge curtains. cover blown. Boris, a so. Cold winds and air maybe hit4 the The family ateven number had shops nervous dog, was quick conditioning areher noteyes. the Mrs Cafferty rubbed to see whattonew trends will finally managed get their to scurry away. Kevin best combination for great kids in bed. The Mordells at whistled tempt us. And, of course, it’s and disappeared with “Mine’s full”, she called guiltily, looking skin. A facial can number 6 were in their kitchen Boris back into the house. “what’s the harm?” not just clothes that change help to give you your washing up after dinner. Maurice sighed with relief, “They won’t take it if the lid with took the the seasons. Make-up Maurice last bite of checked the time, and noted it ‘glow’ back. Keep the won’t close”, Maurice called own fashionsin his book. thefollows sandwichits Q had delivered good up sighed, at home, back. Mrs work Cafferty asand he settled shadows this down yearinthere are aThe fewfluorescent light in with an allbag over exfoliation pulled out the and of the porch here at number 8. surprises in store. The lightly the garage at number 10 dragged it back up her drive. and moisture boost. Think By his side was a camera and Maurice shook head, it’s bronzed skin and pearlyflickered pale on. Something was scrubs, oilshisand nourishing a walkie-talkie. happening. Maurice studied always the ones masks. And you we least mean all eyeshadow that we’ve come to House number 10 was the Jeff as he pulled up his garage expect. over. It’s easy to neglect expect from spring/summer main focus of his investigation. door and with a sound like He our picked up hislips walkie-talkie. hands, and feet, so Jeff hadmaking moved in an fourappearance thunder wheeled his dustbin to are “Q do you copy..?” There was weeks ago. Tall, receding, do give them the attention the end of his drive. This is it again, but we’re also seeing nothing but crackle on the he kept himself to himself. thought Maurice. He reached they other end. red lips,and black and Hisbright lawn was mowed his eyeliner for his camera. In his hurry Try the deserve. splashes of bold The front door behind him flowerbeds weeded, but colour. it the lens cap dropped to the Mini Pamperopened. Kit was four weeks ago when the tarmac with a loud click. Jeff by Olivier Bonas, trouble began and Maurice paused angerine is a keyand peered into the “What now Maurice?” His wife, withhis its shea butter didn’t believe in coincidences. Maurice held Queenie, stood there in her colour for darkness. spring this Every driveway had a dustbin enriched handdressing gown. “I said not to breath. year. It can be surprisingly standing like a sentinel for cream and lipbother balm. me when I’m watching Outstick of the wearable if you to corner just of his eye a the morning refuse collection. my programme”. £15onto from www. shadowy figure hurried Every driveway, thatais,splash. except Think a tangerine the pavement, liftedoliverbonas.com the lid of “I’ve caught the culprit, red number 10. clutch, necklace or nail the Mordells’ dustbin and tried handed”. varnish. Not convinced? Kevin Mordell appeared at to cram a huge black bin liner “I hope you’re proud”, Queenie his front door pullingApricot on his is a good h the joy of opening a pristine new inside. grumbled, “now get inside, coat. The Mordells’ dog, Boris, alternative. We particularly eyeshadow palette. The Urban ‘Got you!’ Maurice thought. He you’re letting all the cold Decay air part Chihuahua, partlove hot dog the new pointed Colourthe camera Naked 3 Palette wasspotted on many girl’swas and fired in”. She Jeffawho sausage, scurried outside. Crush Nail Varnish in Mrs Cafferty off the flash. was wish Christmas lastby year, but it pretty stilllist stood his dustbin. Maurice made a note in his caught in the blinding light.caused a stampede when it was Apricot Kiss, by The Body much book. Kevin Mordell, lazy dog “Welcome to the street!” she Shop. It’s quick and in launched was out stock and in no time. walker, secret smoker, allowed “Putdrying your rubbish your own andcalled. Heof nodded backed the dog to run over everyone’s a steal at £5. bin”, Maurice barked. upUrban his drive. And for good slowly reason. Decay just

Spring into Summer

t is all too easy to get stuck in a perfume rut, spritzing our ‘signature scent’ on day after day. But the more

  Dandelion is a sweet young boy who was signed over by his previous owner and is now looking for a new home where he’ll get lots of love and attention. Like all rabbits, Dandelion will require a large, spa cious hutch and a generous sized run with plenty of room to play, stretch and exercise. Please get in touch if you could offer Dandelion the home he’s looking for.

   Strawberry (white) and Bluebell (albino) are two very sweet girls hoping to find a lovely home to gether. Like all rabbits, they will require a large, spacious hutch and a generous sized run with plenty of room to play, stretch and exercise. With lots of love and attention these would be two very happy bunnies. Can you offer a forever home to our lovely girls please? If you think you can offer one of our animals a lov ing home then please ring RSPCA Hillingdon Branch on 01895 833417 or visit our website www.rspcahillingdonclinic.org.uk to download an application form 52

  



                                                Your County, District and Parish Councillors will be available to answer questions on their activities in our area over the past year and the Neighbourhood Police team will be also represented. We are sure that there will be much discussion of the Heathrow expansion plans and all the other developments that are impacting on our area. We will shortly be delivering the AGM notice and Agenda to you along with the envelope for your subscriptions. We aim to represent all the residents of Richings Park and Thorney and are a nonprofit making organisation relying solely on residents’ annual contributions to finance our activities. The minutes from previous AGMs and the statement of our accounts are on our website.



We have a new information and communication forum Richings Park Today  which we hope will be a source of information, networking and support and allow you to have a voice. Please join and get involved. 54



on    round the shops from 10am. Come along and enjoy the delights on offer.

     

please be vigilant. A white male calls at the home of an elderly person that has previously been the victim of rogue trading (sometimes several years ago). The male purports to be from Trading Standards and states that the original builders are under investigation. He then claims that money is required from the victim for investigations to continue or compensation to be claimed. Victims have handed over in cash/ transferred via the banking system thousands of pounds to date in offences identified nationwide.

  We have secured seats to represent you on a number of the Heathrow Committees and are regularly attending to voice your views. Possible compensation for noise and other nuisance that will be associated with any expansion of the airport is high on our agenda.



 

01895 438 811 07825 986 762

Grow Your Own

I’m a great fan of home grown vegetables, particularly as growing my own allows me to choose to eat only organically grown fruit and vegetables, which are free from chemical pesticides. Even if you only have a tiny patio garden or backyard, you can brighten up your supper table with some good looking vegetables, home grown in containers. It is important to use large containers. Smaller ones may look fine but most vegetables need an evenly moist compost around their roots at all times, and so a larger volume of compost is much easier to look after. They will need to be positioned in a sunny spot as vegetables won’t crop well in a gloomy position. Growing bags will do but they don’t exactly look good. In addition, they often seem to contain pretty poor compost and, when it comes to keeping growing bags adequately watered, they are nothing short of a nightmare. Large flower pots or planters are the best bet, and you can use terracotta, plastic or glazed pots. Make sure that the containers are well supplied with drainage holes, and that you have a layer of broken pots on top. I suggest using either a standard multi-purpose or a 56

 by Pippa Greenwood   multi-purpose compost mixed with a loam based compost – both produce good crops and are fairly easy to maintain. You can incorporate some controlled release fertiliser granules or feed regularly with a liquid feed.

There are lots of different vegetables that can be grown in containers but sometimes getting the right variety can make all the difference to how well they perform. Check labels or seed catalogues as those particularly well suited to life in a pot are described as so. If you like home grown beans you can use any variety of dwarf French bean, or if you prefer, a runner. The miniature runner, ‘Hestia’, has pretty red and white flowers and doesn’t need a support to climb. Cucumbers can be grown in pots; choose a variety such as ‘Patio Pick’ which should manage to crop well despite its small size. Provided you have a large and deep container then courgettes are also worth a try, and do remember to keep them well fed. If you like hot pepper and have a sheltered, warm spot then try the crazy looking, heavy cropping ‘Medusa’ or the pretty but hot ‘Etna’. Salad crops can all be grown in a growing bag or other container, and are guaranteed

to look good. For some really wacky colour try growing the rich-red stemmed Ruby Chard or ‘Bright Lights’ chard with stems in pink, orange, red, yellow and white.

When it comes to maintenance, remember that anything growing in a pot needs more TLC as its roots will not be able to tap into the further reaches of the soil to find moisture and nutrients. Plenty of food and water is a must, and I tend to use a high potash liquid tomato feed, which works a treat. To keep your pots free from slug and snail attacks, try using sticky-backed copper tape stuck in a complete ring around the top of the pot or planter. Once everything is growing well and cropping, don’t forget to pick patio veg regularly if you want the plants to keep cropping. Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood. com for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ veg growing system, biological controls, fleece, copper tape and lots more besides.

h s a p A L a e g to m c m n in h g g s h d

A g li J s re o a n h s in s o

A a A y th fi s b a s m o m e (A w je b s w tr a

It w w

News from Iver Village Infant School

The Iver/Iver Heath Schools Community Iver Village Infant School

Ofsted We are extremely pleased to announce that Ofsted has recognised our school as a 'GOOD' school. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the Staff, Children, Parents and Governors who work really hard to make our school the wonderful place that it is. The children, as always, were a real credit and the inspectors commented on the warmth of the school and the polite, happy and respectful children. They recognised the rapid progress the school has made and thoroughly enjoyed their time with us.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at the bottom of your garden? In conjunction with our theme last half term we held a miniature garden competition. The children were given a seed tray and created their miniature gardens using sticks, stones, moss, sand, growing plants, pebbles, craft materials, Lego or whatever they could find. From a fairy garden to seaside scene or a dinosaur terrain, the children's imaginations ran wild and we saw the most creative designs. The corridor looked amazing with miniature gardens everywhere.

Living eggs in school!

World Book Day World book day arrived at Iver Village Infant school with children being creative by making their own books, writing and illustrating their own stories, sharing their favourite stories with their friends and book swapping. Mrs Butler said: "We love our books and our reading results are good, so it shows whatever we are doing is working." Later on it was fantastic to see so many children, in their pyjamas, join us as their teachers read some of their favourite stories and the children read their stories to friends.

We all witnessed a delightful experience that introduced us to the wonders of nature. We had a delivery of 12 eggs which were 2-3 days away from hatching. The eggs were in a special incubator which had large viewing windows allowing the children to see all stages of hatching. When the eggs hatched we put them in a brooder box with a heat light, bedding, feed and water. This allowed the teachers and children to easily observe and have access to the chicks. Not only did we watch the life cycle, growth and development, the experience encouraged fantastic speaking and listing as well as demonstrating our children's caring and nurturing skills.

We are collecting! A New Library The Iver Community Library has approached the Governing body with a view to building a new community library at our School. We are currently looking at library designs and planning this exciting addition to the school building.

Friday 19th June at I.V.I.S 3.00pm.

Caring, Growing, Learning in the Heart of the Community. Iver Village Infant School TEL: 01753655104 58

Grange Way, Iver SL0 9NT www.iver-inf.bucks.sch.uk

r t

Pets Corner... (Apr15)_Layout 1 27/03/2015 12:14 Page 1

Spring has sprung - some seasonal tips... AFTER another mild winter there’ll probably again be a glut of slugs and snails in our gardens. Puppies will often eat them by choice but even if adult dogs don’t they could accidentally ingest one eating grass or off a toy or bone left on the lawn. Slugs and snails transmit Lungworm which is a serious and frequently fatal disease. Clearing slugs and snails from the garden is a near impossible task so it is important to prevent Lungworm as it is difficult to treat. Thankfully this is easily achievable with effective products from your vet. Beware if you are putting down slug bait that it is palatable and toxic to dogs so you must prevent them gaining access to it.

skin. If you see evidence of fly eggs and maggots wash them off and seek immediate veterinary advice.

  

Coco shell mulch is a popular product in use in gardens these days. Remember, all chocolate products are toxic to pets and the coco-shell, which is attractive to dogs, is particularly rich in theobromine, the poisonous ingredient. It is much safer to use alternatives such as tree bark. The pollen count will be going up as hayfever sufferers know and animals, especially dogs, can suffer from hayfever too. They rarely however snuffle and sneeze but suffer from red itchy skin, especially on the paws, belly and ears - chronic ear conditions are often caused by this. Not really a peril but fledgling birds are a feature of the late Spring. It is not uncommon to see feathered baby birds hopping around. They may spend several days on the ground before they learn to fly so if you find a fledgling there is no need to be concerned, its mother is probably nearby waiting for you to go away. Don’t think you’re doing them a favour picking them up; fledgling birds taken away from their natural environment are unlikely to survive. However if you think one in the open is at risk from cats you may pop it into the nearest hedge or under cover. While grass is a natural diet for rabbits, spring lawn grass is lush and low in fibre and can cause diarrhoea so allow access sparingly. Remember: Never to give lawn mowings to rabbits or guinea pigs as it will ferment and cause stomach upsets. While on this subject, be aware of fly strike. This is something I repeat continually for good reason. Check your rabbit’s bottom every day, especially during warm spells, for signs of contamination with faeces and urine and clean it thoroughly if it is dirty. Special longlasting fly repellent products are available to apply to the 60

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

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

M C Atkinson BVSc MRCVs www.stmartinsvetclinic.com

The Wildlife Zone...FP (Apr15)_Layout 1 27/03/2015 10:47 Page 1

THE WILDLIFE ZONE

A RARE BUTTERFLY N 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.

ot many people have heard about one of Europe’s rarest animals, even though it is also one of the world’s most interesting insects. Recently I led a conservation project to the Alvao National Park mountains of northern Portugal where we aimed to improve the habitat quality of the Alcon blue butterfly. The group’s dominant question was, could we really assist this little creature in its desperate fight for survival? Being dedicated conservationists, we deeply wanted to prevent the butterfly from becoming another extinct species. But to do our job really well, and to maximize the results of our efforts, we had to understand the butterfly, what it does, its life cycle, and its preferred habitat. During our research, we learned that the Alcon blue is a smallish and delicate butterfly. The male is light blue which gives the butterfly its English name, whilst the female is brown. Their markings may not be the most spectacular of all butterflies, but they are still beautiful. With the Alvao park rangers we decided on the most important outcomes for our project. Our first priority became clear; it was to stabilize and maintain the Alcon blue’s present population. However, if it was possible, we also wanted to create the best living conditions so that the butterfly would also increase its population in the future. However, not all was straightforward, as the Alcon blue’s life cycle is an intricate one, with each delicate stage being riddled with dangers. It is imperative that each one of these phases is successfully completed every year. The male blue usually emerges in early July. However the timing of its annual appearance can alter depending on changes in climate. Arriving above ground level into a new and mysterious world, and having no parent to teach him, the male must investigate the plants and meadows alone. Two weeks later, the more sombrely coloured female emerges, mates with the males, and starts laying eggs. But the female butterflies must hurry as they only have four weeks to live. It is a very short window in which they must be successful to guarantee the species survival. She instinctively knows that she must lay her eggs only on the Gentiana pneumonanthe which flowers in July. Within a few weeks the butterfly eggs have hatched into a caterpillar that eats the Gentiana’s developing seeds. When this eating stage of its life finishes, the caterpillar falls to the ground. It is helpless, and will die if it is left alone. However it is at this time when the local ants, Myrmica, become part of the story. The ants are instinctively programmed to take the caterpillar into their nests where it changes into a pupa. In their subterranean home the ants will feed on a deliciously sweet liquid secreted by the pupa for the next eleven months. The ants find it absolutely irresistible. This symbiotic relationship continues unseen and underground until the following summer. In late June the pupa is still in the ants nest, but must soon find a way out of its underground home, or remain there and die. In early July the pupa metamorphoses once again and develops into a beautiful male butterfly. Most, if not all, Alcon blues somehow manage to find their way out. When they emerge, they find themselves in the same flower meadow where they were originally laid as eggs and later developed into caterpillars. The new and eager male Alcon blues are ready for their part to play in the next chapter of this amazing saga. However, the same problems that faced the previous generations now face the present one. Conservationists think that it is important to monitor this stage of the cycle. One potential problem is that Climate Change has been proven to affect the synchronized timings of both flowers and insects. Therefore it is possible that those same effects could one day be a factor in this interaction between the Alcon blue and the Gentiana. But there are also present day problems to overcome. If the Gentiana is grazed upon by agricultural animals such as goats and cows, then the butterflies’ life cycle would again be fatally broken. Fortunately the National Park rangers have already made a practical agreement with the local farmer who owns these extremely rare Gentiana meadows. Therefore the butterflies’ most important breeding areas in Alvao are safe from domestic grazing. Unfortunately another lingering problem remains: if the Gentiana living in these flower meadows are out-grown by other overpowering plants, Gentiana could still disappear. Therefore controlling these overpowering plants is also of utmost importance. Despite being in a sweltering 41 degree heatwave, the working party threw themselves into laborious ‘scrub-bashing’ and removed huge swathes of overpowering plants. It was hard physical work. By successfully completing our difficult task we managed to give the butterflies an advantage. Moreover, the same task can now be repeated in the Alvao National Park’s other flower meadows. All in all, this project was not only successful for conservationists, but we also managed to help the general public take a greater interest in their surrounding wildlife. But hopefully, the biggest winners in the next few years will be the Alcon blue butterflies themselves.

The charities’ contact details are www.ffes.org.uk email: info@ffes.org.uk 62

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 Motoring  4 x 4s

By James Baggott @CarDealerEd

The extent of your off-roading might simply be bumping up the kerb outside school, but it’s always nice to know the car of your choice can handle the rough stuff should you ever need it to. Here we’ve listed our favourite off-roaders. They’re all fully equipped to take you off the beaten track should you want them to, but are just as prepared when it comes to getting your family home safely on icy roads.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V makes a great case for family buyers – and it’s just as capable of hitting the road less travelled. Stylish looks and new efficient diesel engines, capable of up to 62.8mpg, make this 4x4 extremely appealing. Combine that with masses of boot space, folding rear seats for extra flexibility and extensive safety features, and it’s ideal for a growing family.

Volvo XC90

New to the market in 2014, the Volvo XC90 has already made a massive impression. A striking and stylish car to make any Range Rover driver think twice, it’s packed with Volvo’s latest safety and crash-prevention technology. Space is generous inside, with seats that can fold in various formations to suit your needs. It doesn’t come cheap though!

Mini Countryman

If you want quirky styling but aren’t looking for a huge SUV, look no further than the Mini Countryman. It offers five seats, five doors and enough space to swing a very small cat. It might not be the most practical car for five adults but you’ll fit in, while all-wheel drive means you can take this Mini off-road where it’s surprisingly capable.

Suzuki Grand Vitara

The Suzuki Grand Vitara will please those buyers looking for value for money and practicality. It’s cheaper than most of its rivals and this year’s model will be available from £14,000. For their money, owners get loads of interior space, plus a decent level of safety and tech kit. It’s rugged and performs well off road, but those considering it should opt for the more economical diesel engine.

Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage might not offer top-level quality, but it’s still spacious and comfortable enough for driving everyday. Running costs are extremely reasonable and those opting for the 1.7-litre diesel engine will be able to achieve a reasonable 54.3mpg. Kia’s seven-year warranty makes this car, with prices starting from £17,500, even more appealing. 66

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FLOWERS & GARDENING... Iver Flower Club The Coppins Room, Iver Village Hall, Grange Way, Iver, SL0 9HW. Meets 4th Thursday of month, 7.30pm. Call Jayne on 07730 249876. Visit: www.bbando.org.uk/clubs/iver

Bobbin Lace Making Group Every Thu 7.30pm at Southlands House, The Green, Swan Road, West Drayton. Call Julie 020 8897 9368 or Margaret 01895 851349 Chinese Brush Painting Group We meet on Saturday mornings. The class is guided by an experienced tutor. Learn to compose and develop your own Chinese painting style as well the finer points of Chinese calligraphy. At Harefield Library, Park Lane Village Centre, Harefield or contact Phyllis Nash on 01895 476 644 / phyllnash@gmail.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 Uxbridge Craft Market Every Wednesday (9am-5pm) at The Pavilions Shopping Centre Arts, Crafts, Gifts and Collectables www.uxbridge-craft-market.co.uk KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA... Adults Zumba Classes Running on Wednesdays 6-7pm at Iver Heath Village Hall, Saint Margaret's Close. Call Diane on 07926 854184 Bagot Stack (Fitness League) Term Time Only. Vyners School, UB10 8AB on Tue 7.30 - 8.30pm. Also in Windsor Monday & Thursday. Call Rosemary 01628 776838 www.thefitnessleague.com 68

class. Shaun Thompson, 07906 087749 www.tauruspt.co.uk

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Iver Heath Garden & Allotment Club Iver Heath Village Hall. Every 2nd Monday of the month at 8pm. Call Barbara Thompson Programme Secretary 01895 235213. Contact email address is Ann McCullough Secretary amcc100@gmail.com HOBBIES...

Ballet Classes Iver Heath Village Hall, Friday 4.457pm. Call L Killian 01753 814280

Bokwa Fitness Tone & Core Bokwa Dance Fitness Over-50's group Energetic workout that anyone can pick up, dancer or not. Saturdays 10.30-11.30am, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Contact Penny 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk

Boxfit Saturdays 9.45-10.45am at the Evreham Sport Centre, Iver. An exciting class which uses focus pads and gloves to enhance an excellent aerobic workout. Call 01753 672610 Children's Zumba (Zumbatomic) Classes Wednesdays at 3.30-5.30pm at Iver Heath Village Hall, Saint Margaret's Close. Call Diane on 07926 854184

Futunity Street Dance and Hip Hop for children age 7-11 years. Fri's from 4-9pm call Cheryl on 01753 651754 or email childcare@ivercommunity.org Modern Jive Classes Monday 8-11pm at West Drayton Community Centre Tuesday & Thursday 8-11pm at Uxbridge Civic Centre Beginners Welcome – First Night Entry & Free Lifetime membership with this listing. Contact Alan: 0208 933 4350 or 07860 250961 www.clubceroc.com email: alanandsue@clubceroc.com Donna’s Keep Fit Iver Heath Village Hall. Call Donna 01753 674945. Tue 9.45-10.45am

Hour of Power - Ultimate Workout Wed 7pm at the Evreham Sports Centre, Iver. Call 01753 672610. INSANITY Classes Mon & Thurs 8.15-9pm. St Peters Centre, Iver. £5 per class. Call Rachel on 07745 622011. Iver Heath Drama Club Meet every Wednesday at Iver Heath New Village Hall between 7.45pm & 10pm. Contact Matt Streuli email: matt@ihdc.co.uk or www.ihdc.co.uk Jazzercise Classes New Denham Community Centre Monday 9.30am-10.30am and Tuesday 6.45pm-7.45pm. Wed, Thurs and Friday 10-11am Denham Village Memorial Hall Village Road, Denham, Bucks. Thursday 6.30-7.30pm. Contact Wendy Whitefoord, Tel: 07803 602142 or email: wendy.whitefoord@btinternet.com www.jazzercise.com Ladies Only Kickboxing Club Wednesdays, 6.30-8.00pm at Watts Hall, Redford Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1SZ. First Class FREE! Just turn up or call Instructor Leanne Phillips on 07518 848285 email: leanne @kickboxing-longdon.co.uk www.kickboxing-london.co.uk Nordic Walking & Wellbeing Explore our borough’s green spaces . with all round exercise in the open air, 4 week courses various days and locations pre booking essential contact 07771872592 / learningmoves@hotmailco.uk

Evreham Adult Learning Centre Please call 0845 045 4040 to book the following… Gentle Yoga Wed 13.30-14.30. Class suitable for beginners to intermediate level. Cost £50 for 10 weeks. Fully qualified Exercise To Music Instructor.

Personal Training Looking for some extra help to get fit & into shape? For more info and prices call Rachel on 07745 622011

Fitness Club St Catherine School, Money Lane, West Drayton, UB7 7NX. Thu 6-7pm Circuits, Fitness and Boxercise. £5 a

Pilates Class St Peters Centre, Iver. Tuesday 7-8pm. Julie Hall 07976 966 583

Pilates Iver Heath Village Hall on Thurs 7pm8pm call Mrs S Webb 01923 721335

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KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA CONTINUED...

Toddler & Junior Fitness Fun Junior Trampolining Weds 4.30pm5.30pm held at the Evreham Sports Centre Iver. Call 01753 672610.

sometimes a live band. If you like to reminisce, do come along and join us! Contact Derek on 01753 654398

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Pilates and Tai Chi Fit courses Tuesdays 7.30-8.30pm, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Contact Penny 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk

Pinewood Fitness The Fitness Room, Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, Sl0 0NH. Mon 20.00-21.00, Wed 19.30-20.30. Booking only. Various Fitness Circuits, Boxercise, Gym Work. £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, 07906 087749 www.tauruspt.co.uk Richings Players Perform three plays each year usually at Iver Village Hall. If you would like to become a member call Adrian on 01753 652843 or www.richingsplayers.com Salsa Classes Every Monday: The Middlesex Arms, Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HG. Beginners class starts 8pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.459.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm. Every Wednesday: The WatersEdge, Canal Cottages, Packetboat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. Beginners class starts 7:30pm. Improvers/Intermediates: 8.309.30pm. Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm Tap Dance Mondays 7.30-8.30pm at Meadows Community Centre, West Drayton. Adult Beginner/Intermediate tap. No exams. Contact 01895 420409 / learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk Taurus Circuits Pinewood Studio. With Personal Trainer Shaun. Monday 8pm-9pm Booking only 07906 087749 Tai Chi Classes Tues 10am at the Evreham Sports Centre, Iver. Call 01753 672610 Tai Chi Classes Every Saturday 10-11am, Yiewsley Methodist Church, Fairfield Road, UB7 8EY. Call Dan 07880 601429

Yoga Iver Heath Village Hall Mon 6.30-7.45pm Jonathan Bell 07790 682238

ZUMBA Mon 7-8pm & Tues 7-8pm St. Mary's Church Centre, Langley Thurs 7-8pm St. Francis Church Hall, Langley.

ZUMBA Fitness Classes Mon & Thurs 7-8pm. St Peters Centre, Iver - all levels welcome! Call Rachel on 07745 622011. ®

Zumba Fitness Weds 8-9pm at Langley Grammar School Sport Centre Reddington Drive Langley, SL3 8LL and Thurs 7-8pm at Yiewsley / West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Rd, West Drayton UB7 9JL.Call Gabriel 07735 090325, gabrielzumba@instructor.net www.gabriel84.zumba.com MUSIC... Faraday Country Music Club in Slough SL2 1RN. Join us for the best live Country Music every Thursday for listeners, western partners, freestyle or line dancers. From 8-11pm. Contact Deb 07986 050742. www.faradaycountry.co.uk Iver Singers Singing for Fun We’re a friendly group who meet every Tuesday (term time) at Evreham Adult Education Centre, between 7.30pm and 9.30pm. No Auditions. No previous experience necessary. Please contact Sara Adams: sara@ iversingers.com, 07733 466177, or visit www.iversingers.com for more. The Windsor & District Big Bands Appreciation Society Meet on 2nd Wed of each month at 7.30pm, Datchet Hall, Horton Rd, Datchet. Meetings feature the music of the big bands of the 40s & 50s Swing era. Two recitals from records, tapes & CDs, along with a raffle and

Signature A Cappella singers We meet on a Monday night at Iver Heath Village Hall, St Margaret’s Close, Iver Heath SLO 0DQ. Time 7.45-10.30 with a ten minute break for a cup of tea, a chat and a biscuit. If you enjoy singing please come along to watch us one evening or visit www.signaturesingers.com Stoke Poges Singers A friendly four-part choir with about forty members singing a wide variety of music during the year. New members are always welcome and there are no auditions. The ability to read music is not essential. Rehearsals on Thursday evening at St Andrews Centre, Rogers Lane, Stoke Poges from 8pm. Come along to a rehearsal or contact Naomi on 07831 217575 or Cheryl on 01753 655682. www.stoke-poges-singers.org Yiewsley & West Drayton Band Rehearse every Wednesday and Friday 8-10pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. To join or book the band contact Lynne on 07976 824152 or email Lynne@ywdband.com Yiewsley & West Drayton Training Band This is open to all ages wanting to learn to play a brass instrument or those of you wanting to 'brush up' your skills. Rehearse every Wed during term time 6.45-7.45pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. Contact Abi on 07985 302 856 or emailtraining@ywdband.com PETS... Iver Dog Training Club Meet Tuesday & Friday 6.30-9pm, St Andrews Church, Richings Park. Call Diana 01753 732907 Iver Heath Fields Dog Club 'Outdoor Training' every Sat at 10.15am, Wed at 11am call Mike on 01753 817852 or 07795 031335 or see website www.ihfdc.com continued overleaf...

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  PRE-SCHOOL & KIDS GROUPS... French for Children with La Jolie Ronde, 5-11yrs. In Iver, Saturdays. Call Estelle 07831 779888 for more details. Rainbow Guides Iver Heath Scout Hut on Tuesday, 5.30-6.30pm. Call Cindy Gordon 01753 795724 or Tracey Glynn 01895 469804 Richings Park Pre-School St Leonard's Hall, St Leonard's Walk, Richings Park Iver, SL0 9DD. Monday to Friday 9.15am-12.15pm Extended days on Tue, Wed and Fri until 2.15pm. 15 hours funding available for 3-4 year olds per week. 2yr old funding. Call 07712 477848. Shooting Stars Pre-School An innovative pre-school setting for children aged two-five years open from 7.00am – 6.00pm Monday – Friday. Iver Village Hall, High St, Iver, SL0 9NW. Call Rafia 01753 651754 or e: childcare@ivercommunity.org Slough Sea Cadets Parade nights on Monday and Thursday 19.30-21.30 at Langley Pavillion, Langley Road, Slough, SL3 8BS. Male & Female Junior Cadets (age 10-12 yrs) and Cadets (age 1218 yrs). Fees £2 per week, courses from £5 for a weekend. Visit us on Facebook, pop-in or email: sloughseacadets@yahoo.co.uk Sticky Fingers Mothers & Toddlers Iver Heath Village Hall, Wed 9.3011.30am. Call Janet Beale 01753 652375 The Launchpad A breakfast club for children aged 511 and after school club for Infants. We also offer holiday play schemes. Iver Village Hall, High Street, Iver, SL0 9NW. Call Cheryl on 01753 651754 childcare@ivercommunity.org The Pod An after school club for Junior school children combining childcare with specialist educational activities. Iver 72

Village Junior School, High Street, Iver, SL0 9QA. Call Cheryl on 01753 651754 or email: childcare@ivercommunity.org Tiny Talk Baby Signing Classes Tuesday classes at St Mary’s Church Hall, High Street, Harefield UB9 6BX, 10am, price £5 pre-paid per family. Thursday classes at St Giles' Church Hall, 1 High Road, Ickenham UB10 8LE, 10am, 11.15am and 1pm, price £5.00 pre-paid per family. Friday classes at The Uxbridge Centre, The Greenway, Uxbridge UB8 2PJ, 10.30am, price £5.00 pre-paid per family. Please call Bev Meier to book 01895 824935 or 0781 8025993 Tiny Toes Childcare An inspirational full day care nursery for children aged six weeks to five years open from 8.00am – 6.00pm Monday – Friday. Evreham Centre, Swallow Street, Iver, SL0 0HS. Call Susan on 01753 655650 tinytoes@ivercommunity.org SELF DEFENCE... Close Quarter Combat Based in Richings Park. Specialising in speed, strength and conditioning training. All types of pad work combinations. Suitable for Men and Women of all ages. 1-2-1 sessions. Call Mark 07525 366126 email: mj.wilding@hotmail.com Karate (Adults & Children) Iver Heath Village Hall on Tues & Thurs. Kids 7-8pm, Adults 8-9.30pm. Call Sensei R. Baker 07898 946330. Karate Club of Denham / Uxbridge For ages 5 years and up. Sunday 9.15-11am at New Denham Community Centre, Oxford Road. Wednesday 5-7pm at The Greenway, Uxbridge. Call Dominic on 07988 743725 Kung Fu Club West Drayton Great Kung Fu work out for everybody, attractive trainings for children & adults on: Tuesday 5.30-6.30, Friday 7.30-8.30, Sunday 5.30-6.30. West Drayton Community Centre,

Harmondsworth Road, UB7 9JL. Contact Ella: 07702 479 435 or email: sportsclubuk@gmail.com Martial Arts Bujinkan Kuri Dojo Unit 21 Bridgeworks, UB8 2JG Tel: 07878 471124. Training: Sun 10.30-12.30pm, Tue 8-10pm, Thu 8.30-10pm www.bujinkankuridojo.co.uk Silat Kuntao Indonesian Self-Defence Traditional self-defence art from Central Java, includes empty hand, traditional weapons, meditation and healing massage. Adult classes only. Mon and Wed 8pm-10pm at Denham Village Memorial Hall, Denham, UB9 5BN. Call Philip Davies 07790 496 346 or email kuntao.matjan.uk@gmail.com. SELF HELP... Alcoholics Anonymous Every Sunday, 7.30pm at St Leonards Hall, St Leonards Walk, Richings Park, Iver, SL0 9DD. Contact Howard on 07816 315688 "if alcohol is costing you more than money, you should meet us" Slimming World Tuesday 5.30pm and 7.30pm and Wednesday 9.30am at Evreham Sports Centre, Iver Heath Contact Kate: 07432 107089 SOCIAL GROUPS... Coffee Shop At St Margarets Church, Church Rd, Iver Heath. Wed 10.45-11.45am. Enjoy a coffee and a chat in a friendly, informal atmosphere. Heathway Ladies Group Every second Tues of the month at 2pm. You’re welcome as a visitor at the cost of £1.50, as we have a waiting list. Contact Secretary Tricia Cooper 01753 817749 or e: tricia.cooper3@virginmedia.com Iver & District Countryside Assoc., If you enjoy walks in the country and social evenings, why not join us? Call Paul Graham 01753 655183

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  SOCIAL GROUPS CONTINUED... Iver Evening Women’s Institute Iver Village Hall, meets 2nd Monday of month, 7.30pm. Call Margaret 01753 653751 for details. Iver Heath Ladies Meet on the 1st Monday of the month (exc. BHs). At 2pm in the Community Room, Iver Heath Village Hall. Call Pat Roberts 01753 647674 or email: pat@roberts3011.orange home.co.uk Iver Heath Community Library The library is open on Tuesday 10am-1pm & 2pm-5pm Thursday 10am-1pm & 2pm-7pm Saturday 10am-1pm We hope that people from all three local areas will join with us to preserve this important local resource. Membership is free. Many of the facilities are free. For details contact us or, alternatively, come to one of our free monthly coffee and cake mornings and discuss with us in person. Tel: 0845 2303232 email: lib-ivh@buckscc.gov.uk King's Friends A group of older men and women enjoying life. Contact 01753 651178 for our latest programme. Probus Club of Langley & Iver is always looking for new members, we meet for lunch at the Richings Park Sports Club on the last Tuesday of the month (except Dec). We are friendly and attract retired persons of both sexes who usually are from a professional background although there is nothing rigid about background. We normally have a speaker and cover a very wide range of interests. Contact the Secretary on 01753 653571. The Rotary Club of Langley & Iver Meets on Thurs evenings 6.45 for 7pm, Richings Park Golf Club. North Park. Iver. SL0 9DL 01753 655370. We are a small friendly club that welcomes everyone, from all walks of life. If you are interested in improving the lives of others and have fun doing it, visit www.rotarylangleyandiver.org. uk or email: akahold@hotmail.com Women’s Social Group Social group for women in West London. Looking to expand your social group and make new friends? 74

We meet regularly for coffee, a chat and organised trips and welcome women of all ages. Please call Seema on 07730 898635 or email seemaa@seemaa.co.uk for more. SPORT... Back School Small Osteopath lead rehab excercise sessions designed to help strengthen the back with lots of self care advice. Held at Lotus Wellbeing Clinic call 01753 677 604 for further details. Basketball (starting 7th June) Drop-in sessions for adults age 16 and over. Saturdays 12-2pm. £3 per session. At the Evreham Sports Centre, Iver. Call 01753 672610. Darts Richings Park Sports & Social Club Wellesley Avenue. Men & Women Players. Tuesday & Thursday Nights. Call Gerry 07957 804204 Iver Heath Tennis Club Church Road, Iver Heath, Bucks. SL0 0RW. New members always welcome, adults and juniors, visit our website for details www.ihltc.co.uk or call John Stephenson 01895 441033 Iver Heath Bowls Club Interested in playing bowls? Ring Brian Carter 01753 817794 or Hon. Sec. Betty Hemsley 01753 651775 Iver Short Mat Bowls We are open on Wednesdays 2-5pm & 5-10pm in Iver Village Hall, experience not necessary. Age 18yrs+. Cal Bob 01753 654049 or Ron 01753 819644 or Mary 01753 654765 Iver Veterans Golf Society For men and women over 60. We meet every Tuesday morning at Iver Golf Club. Handicap not necessary. Regular competitions held at Iver and other courses. You do not need to be a member of Iver Golf Club, just come along and play and make some new friends. Special rates for IVGS members. Contact: 01753 654246 Ladies Golf Meets 10am every Monday and Wednesday at Rickmansworth Golf

Club new members welcome. Email ladies-captain@rickmansworthgolf club.co.uk for further details. Nordic Walking Taster Session Iver Starts Wednesday 30th January, 10am-11am, £5 at Evreham Sports Centre, Swallow Street, Iver, Bucks, SL0 0HS. Session is £5 with poles included. If you would like to book onto the course or require more details call the Evreham Sports Centre on 01753 672 610. Pink Ladies Netball Club All levels and abilities welcome. Training takes place at Stockley Academy, West Drayton every Tuesday evening. Senior training 16+yrs 7.30-9pm Back to Netball 16+yrs 7.30- 8.30pm Under 16s - please Rhiannon on 01895 448878 for details email: plnetball@hotmail.co.uk visit www.pinkladiesnetball.co.uk Richings Park Ladies Badminton Club Meet at St. Andrews Church Hall, North Park, Iver. Every Monday 24pm except Bank Holidays. Intermediate standard of playing. Call Daphne Wood 01753 653404 for details. Richings Park Short Mat Bowls Richings Park Sports & Social Club Wellesley Avenue. Wed from 4pm. Just turn up - equipment provided. Richings Park Tennis Club Want play tennis? New members always welcome at our Brand New court facilities. Contact Graeme or Wendy on 01753 651071 or visit www.richingsparkltc.org.uk Run for life Richings park running and fitness club. Richings park sports club Mon and Thu 6-7pm. With Personal trainer Shaun - sessions includes running, circuits, boxing and various other exercises. Call 07906 087749. Running Club For Advanced, Intermediate and Beginner. Runs organised in the local area. Free of charge, chance to train with other runners at your level. Call 01753 677 604 for further details.

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