Indefinable quality For expert advice and installation of all Schueco systems: • Bi-Fold Doors • Sliding Doors • Conservatories • Winter Gardens
• Curtain-walling • Structural Glazing • Windows • Glass Sky Lights
BI-FOLD DOOR
FACTORY 0800 999 5575 0330 999 5575
info@bifolddoorfactory.co.uk www.bifolddoorfactory.co.uk
2
BiFold-Quality-290x213.indd 1
10/05/2016 14:12
The EST. 1985
A N D C O N S E R VA T O R I E S LT D Manufactureres to trade and retail
WE INSTALL THE HIGHEST QUALITY ELIMINATE HORRIBLE WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES CONDENSATION GLASS 01895 622 207 WE INSTALL THE HIGHEST QUALITY WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES VISIT OUR SHOWROOM: 39 VICTORIA ROAD, RUISLIP MANOR, HA4 9AB
WHY R • Wind • Leak • Repl • Repl • All ty • Kitch • Fixin • New
CALL NOW FOR YOUR FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE BEFORE VS AFTER
WHY REPLACE, WHEN YOU CAN REPAIR?
• Any window, door & conservatory repairs • Replace glass ruined with condensation • Fix windows that won’t open or close • Change faulty hinges, locks & handles • New door panels and cat flaps fitted • Bespoke splash backs fitted
www.woodfieldwindows.com
CALL
info@woodfieldwindows.com
www.woodfieldwindows.com
3
info
And sadly the last issue before reluctantly entering into Autumn. Last month I became obsessed with tidying and organising things and I have to say, clearing the clutter really does help to focus the mind. On the down side, the bbq my daughter talked me into buying is still in its wrapping waiting to be assembled, as is the storage box I bought for the garden. Even I have to accept that there are only 24 hours in a day and some of those are re quired for sleep. So, the pressure is on this month to sort the storage box before the garden cushions are soaked by au tumn rain and assemble the bbq ready for next sum mer. I also added a small chiminea to the patio this year, thinking it would add some light and heat and create a nice ambience. Well, to date I have lit it three times, using different methods and types of fuel and so far have achieved nothing more than a smoking chimney that not only seeped through mine and the neighbours’ houses, but sent out plumes that could easily have put the local fire station on high alert. If anyone has found a foolproof method for lighting these small horrors, please do let me know, before said purchase finds it way to the dump! .
You can advertise in this magazine from as little as puts your into all six publications (that’s over 30,000 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
www.inandaroundpublishing.co.uk 4
pg 48
Children’s Puzzle Page 6 Wildlife Zone 8 Beauty: Holding onto Summer 10 Life Begins: When words don’t seem enough 12 Wordsearch 14 RSPCA rehoming appeal 16 Finance: What exactly is a credit score? 20 Local Events 24 Coffee Break Puzzles 26 Special: The Great Fire of London 28 Iver Heath Residents Association 30 Travel: Le Mans 32 Hobbies: The Genteel World of Vintage China 34 Health: Migraine Awareness Week 42 The Right Nursery 44 Golden Years: Memories of 50 Years Ago 46 Road Test: Mercedes E Class 48 Story: The bucket of damsons 50 Back to school Tech 52 Karen Munro: Careers 54 Richings Park Residents Association 56 Puzzle Solutions 57 Gardening Feature 58 Pets Corner 60 Interiors: Using colour with confidence 62 Citizens Advice Bureau 64 How to stop your dog chewing 64 Clubs, Groups & Classes 66,68,70 & 72 Recipe: Cod, Prawn & Parsley Pie 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.
5
6
• High academic attainment • Outstanding pastoral care • Broad and Enriching Curriculum • Provision for rising 3s • School Day from 8.00am – 6.00pm IAPS Preparatory Day School for Boys 3 - 7 and Girls 3 - 11
01753 541 075 admin@etonend.org
www.etonend.org
35 Eton Road, Datchet, Berkshire SL3 9AX
7
The Wildlife Zone...FP (Sep16).qxp_Layout 1 23/08/2016 18:51 Page 1
THE WILDLIFE ZONE
THREE YELLOW GARDEN FLOWERS
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.
Daisy field
WILD flowers which grow in well manicured gardens are considered weeds, especially when they appear in the lawn. As a result they are exterminated by gardeners who often give no quarter to them; but despite this almost universal repudiation, I love them. The first of my three yellow wild flowers is the daisy. It has a wonderful golden disc surrounded by a beautiful white ray of petals. They always emerge from my lawn as well as in any unkempt areas nearby. It was called the daisy by none other than the c14th poet and master of Middle English, Geoffrey Chaucer, who named it so because he imagined it to the day’s eye. This was because the flower opens up in the morning, and displays itself like the sun with its bright disc and white rays of light until it goes to sleep in the evening. This is why it still seems to be an appropriate name today. It is a low growing flower which gives rise to the phrase ‘a daisy cutter’ in cricket: this is when a bowler delivers the ball to the batsmen along the ground, snapping off their heads in the process. Indeed, this was my introduction to the game until I was taught to bowl overarm like the big boys. A second childhood memory was picking the daisies with long stems so that I could make ‘daisy chains’ and wear them for a few happy hours. I did this by carefully splitting the thin stems with my thumbnail and threading the next flower stem through the hole. Another family member of the daisy is the Oxeye, which has a larger and rounder yellow disc, resembling the shape of a cow or ox’s eyeball. These usually grow on unkempt ground in the garden as well as on roadsides and verges as does another family member which has an all yellow head, the Common Ragwort. These all flower at Michaelmas time in early spring Wherever daisies are, Buttercups usually grow too, making them seem a natural pair. This is why I also played with them in my early childhood. Buttercups have bright yellow petals which seem like the colour of fresh butter, and stand up to form a minute round cup. All those years ago, I imagined that when people weren’t watching, fairies could drink a golden syrup from them. Other children fantasised that midges and other small flying insects were such fairies. Now I’m an adult, I don’t make daisy chains, and no longer do I hold a buttercup under anyone’s chin to see if it makes a yellow reflection. But years ago, whether there was a yellow tinge or not was meant to signify that the child would be lucky or would benefit in some way later in life. Because I like these common and simple flowers, even in my lawn, I refuse to dig them out. Moreover I also get tinges of regret when I have to cut the grass and so take off their beautiful heads. For me, these will never be degenerate plants or classified as weeds, but will always be a colourful part of my wildlife garden. As with daisies, buttercups have larger members of the family, such as Marsh Marigolds and Lesser Celandine which also grow at Millstream Fork well as on the roadsides and verges. I easily recognise their similar yellow cupped flower heads when they pop up between the paving stones. The third common yellow flower which often invades a horticulturalist’s garden is the Dandelion. But why is a Dandelion a Dandelion? This flower really is another ‘weed’ according to most lawn growers. Moreover very few gardeners would ever give me the time of day for liking Dandelions and will always dig them up by the roots at the earliest opportunity. I still see their bright yellow head full of hundreds of filaments as beautiful circles of joy, which help many tiny creatures’ in their lives. Holding up the yellow head is a long green stem, much thicker than the daintier daisies and buttercups. Moreover, when I break these stems, a white sticky and bitter milk emerges, which long ago prevented me from playing with them with as much ease as with other flowers. Even so I still managed to make my ‘natural golden jewellery’ in those glorious days of springtime. As everyone knows, these heads give way to a grey globe of fragile hair-like seeds known as Dandelion Clocks, which get blown away by the wind, making them act like parachutes. This method of dispersal increases the flowers’ chances of spreading and growing almost anywhere, which is why the flower is so resilient and successful. Dandelions were also an early plaything of mine when we carefully held up the clock to blow away as many seeds as possible. We often had competitions to see who could disperse the most in one single puff, but somehow we never managed to get a definite winner at any time. It was many years later that I found out how the Dandelion got its name. It was after William the Conqueror’s invasion when French became the dominant language of the aristocracy, literature and the realm. They renamed the flower as dents de lion, which means the teeth of the lion. This comes not from the flower’s head, but from the leaves which have jagged edges shaped like savage teeth. The flower grows from the long, stiff white root which makes the Dandelion a much harder flower to rip out of the ground, and usually quite cumbersome to dig up. Lion’s teeth have been smiling at us since the Battle of Hastings, and exactly 950 years later I am still happy to have them in my wildlife garden. They join Daisies and Buttercups as one of my favourite wild flowers which need no help to grow at Millstream Fork and remind me of those care-free days of childhood.
The charities’ contact details are www.ffes.org.uk email: info@ffes.org.uk 8
.
9
Beauty
Holding onto Summer
A face serum can help your skin to recover from the drying effects of too much sun, chlorine and air conditioning. This month I’ve been trying What Skin Needs’ Hydrating Facial Serum. A blend of plant extracts and seed oils, it’s packed with antioxidants, and leaves my skin feeling softer and more hydrated. The main active ingredient, plantolin, has been scientifically proven to soothe, renew and protect skin. The bergamot fragrance is pleasant, although it doesn’t quite mask the scent of olive oil. While the serum is an oil, rather than a lotion, it does absorb quickly and doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy. £17.99, www.whatskinneeds. co.uk.
This month we’re making the by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk
most of the last of the rays with some summer-inspired beauty finds.
With its fresh, citrusy scent of mandarin and grapefruit, warmed by sandalwood, Weleda’s Agrume Jardin de Vie fragrance conjures up images of heady Tuscan nights. And at just £19.95 for 50ml, you can spritz it on whenever you’re missing your sun lounger. Postholiday blues? Weleda’s Grenade Jardin de Vie contains notes of neroli and davana, both of which are believed to help lift the spirits and relieve stress. The final fragrance in Weleda’s collection, Rose Jardin de Vie, is a softly romantic mix of rose, geranium and ylang ylang. www.weleda.co.uk If you’re lucky enough to book a last minute break away, there are still some great travel kits on the market. Neal’s Yard Remedies brought out their Limited Edition Travel Kit in July, so there may still be the odd one left on the shelf. The kit contains a refreshing White Tea Facial Mist and indulgent Wild Rose Beauty Balm, amongst other mini products. If, like me, you love a long soak in a hotel bath, you might want to treat yourself to an Olverum Bath Oil Travel Set, £16. The bath oil is formulated with fragrant essential oils specially chosen to help you relax, destress and unwind. Each of the three bottles contains enough bath oil for three separate soaks. Pick your set up from Harvey Nichols, Fenwick or www.Olverum.com. 10
Bobbi Brown’s new Sunset Pink collection is apparently inspired by ‘the incredible twilight glow of Telluride skies at sunset’. Launched in July, the collection includes highlighting powders, gel eyeliners, lip glosses, cheek tints and cream eyeshadows. I’ve been trying the eyeshadow, £19.50, which comes in four very wearable shades, and is a dream to apply. There’s still time to show off your tan (fake or otherwise) before longsleeve-season is upon us. Cocoa Brown by Marissa Carter’s Golden Goddess Shimmering Dry Body Oil, £12.99, adds a subtle sheen to enhance your tan. You can also use it to highlight cheekbones, collar bones and other areas. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly. Cocoa Brown by Marissa Carter is an award-winning Irish brand and sold in numerous high street stores, including House Of Fraser, Superdrug, River Island, Tesco and Primark.
5
.
11
When Words Don’t Seem Enough
by Kate McLelland Dealing with somebody who has recently lost a loved one can leave you literally lost for words. You know what it’s like: you worry about what to say and how to say it, and often end up saying nothing at all. How grief can affect us People experience grief in different ways: in addition to an overwhelming sense of sadness, a bereaved person may struggle with a number of complex and frightening feelings, including depression, anger and guilt, leading to a rollercoaster of highs, lows and unexpected setbacks. Close friends or relatives may find themselves in the firing line at this time, but it’s important not to take these outbursts personally. Why it’s important to listen Everybody worries about what to say, but there’s no need for you to give advice or come up with answers just as long as you are there for the person in question. Dr Bill Webster from the organisation Grief Journey (www.griefjourney. com) points out that at times of stress people may be barely aware of what you are doing and saying anyway. He goes 12
on to quote the famous author Maya Angelou: “People may not remember what you do, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” It’s more important to know how to listen. Let the bereaved person know that he or she has permission to talk about their loss. If the deceased’s name comes up, don’t be afraid to speak openly about them. Opening up a dialogue Asking questions such as “How are you feeling today?” or “Do you feel like talking?” is better than trying to lead the discussion: you should never try to force someone to open up if they don’t want to. Accept and acknowledge every shade of emotion – from silence to shouting and tears – but don’t judge or try to snap them out of it. It’s vital that a bereaved person should feel free to express their feelings without fear of argument or criticism. A squeeze of the hand or a reassuring hug at times of high emotion is all that’s needed to show support. You may find that they repeat the same story over and over again, in minute detail. This
may, of course, relate to their loved one’s death. If that’s difficult to hear, try not to overreact. Taking a practical approach Finally, remember that someone who has lost a loved one will inevitably have responsibilities that relate to the death. Duties may include acting as legal executor, clearing up the deceased’s possessions and maybe even selling a property. if you’re able to lend a hand with practical things, you’re more likely to have your help accepted if you make a specific offer rather than a generalised offer of help. “Shall I go through his files for you?” or “Would you like me to come with you when you visit the undertaker?” are simple, direct questions that are more likely to be taken up. There’s no blueprint for dealing with grief: because everyone experiences the shock of loss in a different way, there can be no absolute rules to guide us. Bereavement counsellor Dr Bill Webster sums it up perfectly when he says: “You can’t fix anything, but you can make a difference, and that’s really what it’s all about.”
H&M Property Services
All your building and maintenance needs under one roof
Building Construction/Bricklaying Extensions & Loft Conversions Conservatories Patio/Path/Block Driveways Decking Kitchen & Bathroom Installation Plumbing & Heating
Electrical Services Rewires Plastering & Tiling Painting & Decorating Fencing Roofing Carpentry & Joinery UPVC Fascias & Guttering
If you would like to discuss any future projects Tel: 01753 655312 or 07795 030743
Email: info@hmpropertyservices.com www.hmpropertyservices.com
Credit Cards Accepted
13
Home & Interiors
Use Colour with Confidence
Katherine Sorrell outlines how you can employ paint to colour your home beautiful. It’s fair to say that most of us are cautious about using colour; in fact, a survey by Dulux found that three-quarters of respondents were afraid of making the wrong colour choice. So how can we boost our colour confidence? Easy: arm yourself with a little knowledge and make the effort to experiment. You can always repaint if you don’t like the results. Where to start? Well, it’s a good idea to leaf through as many interiors books and magazines as you can get your hands on. A wealth of effort and experience has gone into Answers producing room sets that work pg 57 for all kinds of tastes. And don’t 14
forget that all the leading paint manufacturers produce masses of helpful information, from colour cards to brochures that demonstrate how different shades can be put together – and even interactive free apps where you can paint a virtual room without having to apply a single drop of paint: try Dulux’s Visualizer or Crown’s MyRoomPainter, for example. Consider the sizes of your rooms. Would you like to make a small room seem bigger, or a large room more cosy? The basic principles are that pale colours, because they contain a lot of white, seem to recede, enhancing a feeling of spaciousness, while darker colours absorb light and therefore appear more enclosing. Similarly, ‘cool’ colours such as blue and green are more distancing than ‘warm’ colours such as red and yellow. This is why people tend to use paler, cooler colours in small rooms, and white on low ceilings, reserving bolder or darker colours for large, bright rooms. That said, you can break the rules if you wish: perhaps by using a dark, warm colour to make a small room
By Katherine Sorrell feel welcoming and intimate. From a practical point of view, paint those parts of the house that show the dirt most quickly (a busy hallway or a child’s bedroom, for example) in a darkish shade. You might want to consider a high-gloss, washable surface finish, too. A simple, one-colour scheme is relatively easy to get right – provided you choose the right colour. Combining two or more can be more challenging, but hugely rewarding. As Little Greene MD David Mottershead says: “Using paints effectively in interior design is a much more sophisticated process than selecting a single colour from a paint chart. One colour in isolation can be attractive, two in combination can be beautiful and three shades used together can be quite exquisite.” Once you have narrowed down your choices and tried the apps, Fired Earth’s creative director Rob Whitaker has some further tips that will help: “Think about creating a mood board of magazine cuttings and swatches to inspire you, layering colours and textures to build a balanced palette. Buy tester pots of the paints you’re considering so that you can see what they look like as the light changes throughout the day. To really get a feel for the colours, paint A4-sized pieces of paper and stick them to all of the walls that you’re planning to paint. Another trick is to paint the inside of a cardboard box so that you can see how the colour
changes as the walls reflect off each other.” You may be happy with a classic colour palette that will last for years but, if you want to get on-trend, look out for fashion-forward hues. Dulux’s colour of the year is Cherished Gold, an earthy metallic that works well with both fresh pastels and rich jewel tones, while Pantone’s colours of
the year are Rose Quartz and greens. a soft blue called Serenity. To conclude? Do your research, Crown’s autumn/winter palette seek out your favourite style is based around three looks: and either follow fashion or Out of the Dark, with black go your own way. The colour and charcoal plus dashes of possibilities are endless. bright yellow, pink and orange; Image - Sherwood matt Skyscapes, employing shades emulsion, Green Apple matt of blue mixed with grey and FREE Regular emulsion and Extensive Pastures matt chalky neutrals; and Faded PARKING Guest Cask emulsion; allWINE £13.94 for 2.5l Berries, offsetting deep berry AREA Ales matt emulsion, Colours List at B&Q, tones with mossy and grassy 0333 014 3098; www.diy.com.
NaTURaL PaINTS Wednesday Nights 6-8pm Roast Dinners
Thursday Nights 6-8pm Pie, Mash & Liquor
Natural paints are generally made using combinations of ingredients such as linseed oil, lime, turpentine, citrus oil, chalk and earth and mineral pigments. They allow walls to breathe, so moisture is not trapped beneath - useful if your house is slightly damp - and they don’t become statically charged, thus reducing the build-up of dust on painted surfaces (good for allergy sufferers). Because they are more flexible, they tend not to crack or flake. They use either fully renewable raw materials or those that are in plentiful supply, and energy waste during manufacture is kept to a minimum. manufacturers claim they are just as effective as conventional paints – if not more so – and, what’s more, they smell nice! Brands include earthborn, Lakeland, auro, Nutshell, aglaia, Pots of Paint and eico.
Kids under 3yrs eat FREE
PARTIES CATERED FOR
Dog Friendly
wedding, birthday, christening, wakes and corporate buffets.
The man vs food challenge Finish your food within 45 minutes and its FREE
£24.00
if you dont! All of our food is real homemade pub food, offering a bar menu and full restaurant menu. Weekday Lunch is served 12-2:30pm. Sunday Lunch is served 12-5pm, with homemade yorkshires and homemade gravy Evening Meals served 5-9pm
NORTH STAR 63-67 Thorney Mill Road Iver SL0 9AH 01895 442128 15
Registered Charity No: 263515
Adele Staff at Uxbridge Football Club were saddened and appalled to find a python just dumped in their car park in the pouring rain this week. The poor crea ture was very cold and lethar gic and in considerable dis tress. The snake was moved into the safety of the boiler room for some warmth, whilst awaiting collection by the RSPCA. Exotic pets like this have specialist needs and there is no excuse for just abandoning them in this way. Thank you to those who came to the rescue of this snake yet another victim of heartless and irre sponsible pet owners.
Nelson
Adele came into us pregnant, and just about to give birth back in February this year. She has now raised her beautiful kittens and they have all found homes, and Adele is still waiting patiently for her forever home. She is a very sweet natured cat , who enjoys fuss and cuddles and just wants to be loved . She is not a fan of other cats and probably wouldn't be suited to a home with dogs unless they were very laid back and cat savvy. Due to her lovely temperament, she could go to a home with children, providing they were sensible with han dling. This affectionate lady just wants a home where someone can give her the fuss and playtime she deserves. Can you offer the pawfect home to our Adele that she so desperately needs and de serves?
Thank you to the volunteers that have helped or ganise and taken part in various local fundraising events. Without the support of the volunteers we would not be able to do all that we do and we wanted to say a big thank you to all our volunteers at our homing centre, clinic and all our shops. If you would be interested in helping there are many ways like dog walking, helping in our shops or helping with fundraising for more information please email branchadministrator@rspcahillingdonclinic.or.uk. We have an Amazon Wish List for anyone wishing to send items from outside the local area. Please visit our website or contact us for more information – thank you so much*
16
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
Nelson is a very large handsome chap who came to us as a stray. His tail had been recently ampu tated but sadly he wasn't microchipped so we've been able to locate his owner. He is a big boy with lots of character, who can be a little vocal. He does enjoy a tickle under the chin. Being semi long haired, Nelson will need regular grooming to keep his coat in good condition. If you could offer Nelson a fresh start and lots of love, please get in touch.
n
s e d g m p y
t t .
s m
17
18
19
Finance
By Ann Haldon
What Exactly Is A Credit Score, And How Does It Impact On Your Life?
Experian, Equifax, and Callcredit. Your credit rating is made up of various aspects of the information they hold about you, which is contained within your credit report.
When you apply for credit or other types of borrowing, the lender will check your credit score to see if you are a good or bad risk. Your credit rating also comes into play in other situations, and has the potential to affect every aspect of your life. A low score means that you may have to pay an increased rate of interest to counteract the risk to a lender. This has massive implications if you’re trying to obtain a mortgage, as a poor credit rating can mean less product choice and higher monthly repayments. Even smaller financial outlays such as a new mobile phone contract involves a check on your credit file by the provider, so it’s a good idea to understand what constitutes your credit rating, and whether you can do anything to improve it in the future.
credit reference agencies
Three main credit reference agencies exist in the UK – 20
Any County Court Judgements (CCJs) or other markers of insolvency/bankruptcy remain on your credit file for six years, so even though you can be discharged from bankruptcy in 12 months, the fact is evident on your report for a much longer period of time.
How is a credit score formulated?
A number between zero and 999 is used as a guide to lenders and other interested parties, such as landlords and utility companies, about your ability to repay. A high score translates to a low risk as far as they are concerned – in other words, the lower the score the more problems you could face. Scores between 721 and 999 are generally considered a lower risk, but there are other factors that influence your overall rating: • Your previous history of repayment. • How much credit is available to you. • The level of debt. • Whether any County Court
Judgements have been made against you for nonpayment, or if you have been made bankrupt in the past. • If you are on the electoral roll. • How many times you have applied for credit. • The length of time your bank account has been open.
If you’re married or living with a partner and have a joint mortgage or loan, you’ll also see a financial link with this person. This can adversely affect your rating if they have experienced their own financial problems.
so How could a low credit score impact on your life?
Difficulty in getting a mortgage Even if you find a lender willing to offer you a mortgage, the interest rate will probably be much higher, and you won’t have access to the better deals. Having a low credit score is often an indication that you can’t afford a mortgage, but unfortunately it can also affect your ability to rent. Problems renting A landlord will check your credit score - if they see that payments have been missed or that you are not on the electoral role, they could view you as untrustworthy and an unnecessary risk. Personal loans and other finance
Obtaining car finance will be difficult if your credit score is low, as this is the main factor on which a lender bases their decision. It’s not only the large purchases that can be stifled, however – you may also encounter problems when trying to increase your bank overdraft or when requesting a higher limit on your credit card. Limited ways to pay Your credit report can impact on the way you pay for goods in shops. With so many store and reward cards now available, they are a popular way to amass points and enjoy reductions in-store. Again, your credit score will be checked if you apply for this type of card, and along with the information on your application form, will influence the company’s decision.
How to improve your credit score over time
that they amend your report, and add a comment against the entry to explain that it is incorrect. • If a spouse or partner has a poor credit score, you can apply for a financial disassociation.
• Make sure you’re on the electoral register, as a permanent address increases confidence that you’re trustworthy. • Pay at least the monthly minimum on your credit cards. • Cancel any unused credit cards appearing on your credit report - too much available credit adds to your risk from the lender’s viewpoint. • Check for mistakes on your credit report, with all three agencies – you can request
A good credit score can make your life more straightforward, so it’s worthwhile reviewing your credit report every so often to make sure that all the details are correct, and also to check for any suspicious activity. It’s possible to obtain a copy from any of the credit reference agencies for a few pounds.
If your credit rating is low, or you feel that it could be better, there are specific actions you can take to improve it over the long-term:
http://uk.businessinsider. com/how-your-credit-scorecan-impact-your-life-20165?r=US&IR=T https://www.sainsburysbank. co.uk/money-matters/guide-tocredit-scores.shtml
21
22
TANDOORI RESTAURANT 74 Oxford Road, New Denham Uxbridge, Middx, UB9 4DN 01895 239503
Website: www.maya-tandoori.com Email: info@maya-tandoori.com
Sunday Buffet
Tuesday Gourmet Night
12 Noon - 10pm (All Day) A variety of freshly prepared vegetarian & non vegetarian dishes
£10.95 (Eat in only)
£7.95 adult £4.50 children under 12
Takeaway Offer
Starter Main Course Side Dish Naan or Rice (any seafood £3.50 extra)
Restaurant Offer
15% Off when you order over £25. Collection only
15% Off when you book a table for 4 or more FOOD ONLY
Bring this voucher with you.
Bring this voucher with you.
Not to be used in Conjunction with any other offer
Not to be used in Conjunction with any other offer
23
Dated Events (Sep16).qxp_Layout 1 23/08/2016 13:25 Page 1
SEPTEMBER EVENTS
HUBB Business Breakfast Event
8th September, 8am-9.15am Bay Lodge, 36 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1PH. Chris Howe, Heathrow Procurement Director will host a presentation on the Heathrow Business Summit. To book email: helen.thompson@wardwilliams.co.uk or visit the website at www.wardwilliams.co.uk
Lunchtime Classical Music Concert 8th September, 12.30pm. St Johns Church Hall, Greenhill, Harrow (opp Debenhams). Bach - Partita No.2 in D minor
Local Events
Garden Jazz with Tea
11th September, 2pm-4.30pm Long Lane, Heronsgate, Chorleywood. In support of Paul Strickland Scanner Centre. Advance bookings only. Tickets include cream tea £15pp (£10 u12's) call 01923 844290.
Hillingdon Canal Club Talk 13th September Waterloo Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX. Louise Heather ‘The Work of the Ealing Canoe Club’. Email: middlesex.socials@ waterways.org.uk for details.
Fostering Event 13th September, 6.30pm-8.30pm The Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW. Interested in finding out more about fostering? Then why not come along to this free event. For more details see the website www.fost-adopt@hillingdon.gov.uk
Annual Sponsored Walk 18th September A 3 or 5 mile walk within the picturesque surroundings of Moor Park & Northwood. Sign up at www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk or call 0203 826 2367.
Butterflies Table Top Sale & Community Coffee Morning
September into October 2016 24
homemade cakes, raffle, tombola, designer children's clothes, plants and much more. Raising funds this month for Children affected by Brian Tumours.
24th September, 9.30am-1pm Ickenham Village Hall, Ickenham, UB10 8DG. We will have for sale gifts, crafts, unwanted treasures, preloved items, books, cards,
Lunchtime Classical Music Concert
28th September, 12.15pm. St Martin’s Church Hall, corner Eastcote Road & High Street, Ruislip, HA4 6DG. Gamal Khamis & Dina Duisen (Piano Duettists).
OCTOBER EVENTS
Fostering Event
11th October, 6.30pm-8.30pm The Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW. See 13th September event for details.
Ruislip - Northwood Flower Arrangement Society 4th October David Martin - Visions of Cornwall. Tea & coffee available. Flower arrangements are raffled. Tickets on the door £6 for details call 01923 829621.
Free Tasting Event 15th October Iver Flowerland, Norwood Lane, Iver, SL0 0EW. Come and join us to taste a whole host of delicious food & drink from our Food Hall and speak directly to the men & women who grow, create & cook your favourite products.
LIVE MUSIC EVENTS The WatersEdge Packet Boat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. 23rd Sep ‘Diamond Nights’ The UK's No.1 Neil Diamond Tribute. The Swan at Iver 2 High Street, Iver, SL0 9NG. 9th Sep Let's rock with 'Leech' 22nd Sep 10th Year Anniversary Party with 2Tone.
Please send us your details to be included in the October issues by Friday 16th September
25
26
RICHINGS SPORTS PARK IS PERFECT FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS EVENT THIS YEAR Let us take care of your festive gathering this year with beautiful decorations and sumptuous food in beautiful surroundings. Whether it’s a work party or friends and family, our package is perfect. Wellesley Avenue, Richings Park Iver, Buckinghamshire, SL0 9BN t: 08450 262 466 w: www.richingssportspark.co.uk
Call 08450 262 466 to book Limited space available - act fast to secure your place 27
The Great Fire
Of London
by Alison Runham This month marks the 350th anniversary of the fire that destroyed most of London in just five days. Sunday, 2nd September 1666 Just after midnight, an easterly wind rises, blowing down narrow streets crammed with tall, tinder-dry timber houses towards Thomas Faynor’s Pudding Lane bakery. It carries sparks from the stillsmouldering ovens to a nearby woodpile and soon the nearby Star Inn is aflame. The Great Fire of London has begun. Thomas and his family escaped, but their terrified maid was the first fatality. Many locals fled rather than helping local militia tackle the fire, while some people living further away dismissed the fire as trivial – including the Lord Mayor, Thomas Bloodworth, who refused to allow the demolition of houses to form a firebreak. “Pish, a woman could piss it out,” he declared, returning to his bed. Samuel Pepys, clerk of the Privy Seal, dismissed the warning of “a great fire” at 3am too and returned to bed. But by the time he arose, the fire had reached Fish Street Hill - destroying the Thames waterworks with its machinery that could have pumped water to halt the fire and threatening the river’s warehouses, filled with brandy, butter and other inflammable goods. When told that 300 houses had already 28
burned down, he went out to investigate. Houses were burning on London Bridge, and from a boat he watched “poor people staying in their houses ... till the very fire touched them, and then, running into boats, or clambering from one pair of stairs, by the waterside, to another.” Horrified, Pepys informed the King, who immediately ordered the destruction of all houses in the fire’s path and sent military help. However, City officials with republican sympathies spurned help at first, delaying establishment of command posts. By the time the King’s brother James, Duke of York, took control, the fire was already out of hand. Monday Pepys abandoned his home in Seething Lane at 4am with his wife. Sightseers and refugees jammed the roads, jeopardising fire-fighting operations, while panic and paranoia erupted from seemingly isolated fires and explosions to create firebreaks. With little information, people suspected foreigners, Catholics or republicans of terrorism. Only an unintentional firebreak on the bridge, created by the big fire of 1632, prevented the fire spreading to the south bank. However, it continued spreading north, reaching the banking heart of the City.
Tuesday Charles II himself joined the fire-fighting effort, creating firebreaks and passing water buckets. The fire continued on, destroying St Paul’s Cathedral and forcing the garrison at the Tower of London to destroy their own houses to protect the gunpowder stores. Pepys made a desperate dash to his house to retrieve his valuable wine and Parmesan cheese, burying them in a friend’s garden for safety. But although Tuesday saw immense destruction, the end was in sight. Wednesday Overnight, the wind dropped and changed direction. This, together with the firebreaks, probably saved the rest of London; the blaze was under control by the evening, although isolated fires burned until Thursday. However, the damage was already done. Less than onesixth of London’s buildings remained and although the Great Fire is renowned for a minimal loss of life (based on recorded deaths of below ten) this is almost certainly undeserved; deaths were probably in the hundreds. The fast-burning tenements were crammed with the poorest Londoners and recent archaeological evidence shows the fire reached 1700°C, which would destroy human remains.
We help people in their later years to enjoy the life they always have. Whatever you want to know about elderly care, please come and talk to us. Our home will be open in June this year when you can view our facilities, sample our bar & bistro and ask any questions you might have about the home and your care requirements. Whether it’s for you or a friend or relative, we look forward to seeing you soon. Our innovative care concept includes : Chauffeur-driven car | Cinema room | Bistro & Bar | Private dining | Hair Salon and Spa | Library All-inclusive pricing | Creative events | 50% higher staffing than average Paying above the living wage 29
For the last two years, the IHRA has been actively involved in many important issues on behalf of residents including: • • • •
Major infrastructure projects Consultations on traffic and school transport Protection and enhancement of the local environment Fundraising initiatives for important causes e.g. Cancer Research and a local Defibrillator
Please support us …
Apart from an excellent opportunity to help shape the future of Iver Heath, residents who join the IHRA benefit directly from: • Regular meetings and newsletters providing up-to-date news on latest local events, projects and activities • Early-bird invitations to local events e.g. Pinewood Film Nights • Special offers from selected local businesses • Social Events Join today – let your voice be heard and enjoy the benefits just £5 covers your household for the year!
To join, simply send your £5 subscription fee (cheques MUST be made payable to Iver Heath Residents’ Association) to The Secretary, Iver Heath Residents’ Association, 166 Ashford Rd, Iver Heath SL0 0QE together with your name, address, email and telephone number.
IHRA – your voice in the community www.iverheathresidents.co.uk 30
Gams’Field .... A Community-Led Legacy Project for Iver Heath INVITATION NEWS …
If you would like to join many other residents in supporting these important community drop-in events please get in touch !
Local groups and charities attending will have the opportunity to explain what they are doing in the area, to encourage involvement, and raise some funds for their own activities with Tombolas and Prize Raffles !
At these events residents will have the opportunity to review proposals for the scheme and other upcoming projects in the area, and to ask questions of the promoters and other stakeholders.
There is an open invitation to residents and local voluntary groups to attend two Drop-In Community Info & Fundraising Events at the Crooked Billet, Uxbridge Road, Iver Heath on the 28th September and 26th October [4pm – 8pm - Upstairs].
A Community Land Trust is being established to bring forward detailed design proposals using a Community Right To Build Order. This is a planning process which involves a local referendum in which residents are asked to say “Yes” or “No” to development on this Greenbelt site.
Iver Parish Council is being urged by residents to back proposals being promoted for a 9 acre site between Church Road and Slough Road for 6.5 acres of Public Open Space and 2.5 acres for a Dementia Care Home. This project will help enhance the local environment and facilities for all age groups.
Invited to attend either or both events so far …
Abbeyfield Society [Dementia Care Providers] Alzheimer’s Society Groundwork South/Colne Valley Park CIC Dogs Trust Heathway Ladies Association Iver Parish Council Iver Heath Residents’ Association Macmillan Cancer Care Nursery, Infant and Junior Schools Royal British Legion [Iver Heath Branch] SAFE [Equine Rescue] SBDC Local Councillors Scouts, Guides, Beavers South Central Ambulance Service [NHS] Trust St. Margaret’s Church Swallowdale Neighbourhood Watch
Families are welcome and refreshments will be available in the newly refurbished restaurant and bar ! Gams’ Field - Project Location
Open Space
For more information please contact Leigh Tugwood; (t) 01753 655391 (e) info@ap-studio.co.uk (w) www.2-hedz.com/ihclp
A+Studio
31
Ickenham TRAVEL (Sep16).qxp_IN! Tipss Style Editorials (Mar13) 23/08/2016 19:06 Page 1
TRAVEL Le Mans - Full On, High Octane Fun...
T
he Le Mans 24 Hours Race is probably the most famous motor race in the world. Its fans are legendary for their loyalty, returning year after year, and I have only ever heard good things about it. I had to go and see what all the fuss was about. The cheapest and arguably the best way of enjoying Le Mans is to drive down and camp. Three of my friends were up for the experience so we booked a package that included the ferry crossing, a camping plot and general entry tickets for the race – it came out at £140 per head, bargain! The 500 mile drive down was a relaxed high speed cruise; for the last 100 miles every other car has “24 Heures” stickers on the doors and a procession of super cars howl past in the outside lane at highly illegal speeds. My co-driver Gareth was at the wheel so I cracked open a beer and savoured the experience. When we reached the racecourse the traffic jams were pretty horrific, but the queue was enlivened by a gang of beered up idiots spraying the drivers with water pistols. The campsite was absolutely heaving and had virtually no facilities, though on the plus side it was located within a stone’s throw of the main spectator village. We’d brought a tent the size of a bungalow and it took up the whole plot and then some, so the car had to be left in the carpark quarter of a mile away. With the tent pitched and more beer drunk, we decided to head into the town for a meal. There is a tram that takes you from the racecourse right into the centre of Le Mans but, unfortunately, the terminus was a two-mile hike away on the other side of the racetrack. This is something we quickly learned about Le Mans, you do a huge amount of walking. The main square of the town had been hijacked by drunken hooray Henrys, jigging about to the strains of the Village People, but in the back 32
streets away from the square the locals had come out to play in force, creating a real carnival atmosphere. We ate an excellent but inexpensive meal and then went and drank far more than was good for us. The next morning, we went into the village of Arnage in search of breakfast and supplies. The race started at 3.00pm so we headed into the circuit a couple of hours beforehand to find a good place to watch the start. I’d better explain a bit about the race. As the name suggests, it lasts for 24 hours and the car that covers the greatest distance in that time wins. Confusingly, there are four categories of cars. The fastest class, the LMP1 racers, is dominated by the works teams of Porsche, Audi and Toyota and at the other end of the scale you have modified road cars driven by gentleman racers. The circuit is over 8 miles long so there are plenty of vantage points to watch the action. It was a wet start but the weather soon cleared and we had a great afternoon wandering around the village, visiting the stalls and drinking - you are never far from your next beer at Le Mans. We spent the evening at the circuit too and returned to the campsite to find a dozen parties in progress; sleep was hard to come by that night. The next morning, we fortified ourselves with a magnificent fry-up before going to watch the last few hours of racing. There was high drama at the end; the leading Toyota conked out on the very last lap and failed to finish. We had a rather more subdued last night in the town before driving home the next day through a biblical rainstorm. Le Mans is exhausting, exciting and brilliant. I can understand why people keep going back for 20 years and more.
Howard Clemmow
33
Ever since the trend for ‘Shabby Chic’ furniture and accessories started to emerge in the ‘90s and ‘00s, the use of vintage china has risen in popularity. Drinking from a ‘proper’ tea cup harks back to a more genteel time, when tea had visible leaves and we didn’t drink it out of a mug. Nowadays you’ll find vintage tea ware everywhere, from village fetes to wedding breakfasts. It’s not just the charm of these elegantly-shaped drinking vessels that appeals, it’s their cost, too. In many charity shops you can buy a full set including cups, saucers, sugar bowl, milk jug and tea pot, for less than £15 (compare that with a medium-priced, 4-piece contemporary tea set from a popular high street chain store, which will set you back around £80). Of course, not every vintage tea set is cheap. In 2011 a Chinese silver-gilt tea service, auctioned by Sotheby’s Amsterdam, exceeded its estimate of €50,000 to fetch €204,750, while a 19th century 6-piece sterling silver tea and coffee service by Tiffany & Co. sold for over $20,000 at auction in Boston - four times more than 34
Hobbies
The Genteel World Of Vintage China By Kate McLelland the expected amount. But the prize for the most costly tea set goes to a Half-Figure Service Meissen porcelain set, which sold for over £500,000 when it went under the hammer in 2012.
or manufacturer. For example, you might put together a collection of cups and saucers with a floral pattern or with an oriental theme, or you could simply collect items of matching colour.
If you are buying a vintage tea set for your personal use, here are some tips to keep the china in tip-top condition: - Never put it in the dishwasher: always hand wash with a mild soap such as baby shampoo. - Don’t soak vintage china as this can cause problems with the glaze, or even remove gold leaf decoration. - Avoid acidic substances like lemon juice. If you use lemon in your tea, be sure to remove it quickly after you’ve finished. - If you want to store your teacups, use a sealable plastic container. Stack carefully, placing a folded tea towel in the bottom of the box and putting a sheet of cardboard over the first layer before adding a second.
If you fancy spreading the vintage love, catering for vintage tea parties is now big business. Sybil Worsley-Cundall runs a company called Once Upon a Teacup in Manchester, providing tea parties for birthdays, hen parties, weddings, baby showers and christenings. She started out by buying a couple of tea sets for a vintage tea party and now runs a successful business. “Combined with the love I have for sourcing and collecting vintage pieces … sharing my vintage tea parties with others seemed a logical way to go,” says Sybil.
If you don’t want to collect whole tea sets but enjoy collecting individual cups and saucers, you can purchase items by pattern or type, colour
You can track down great vintage buys in charity shops, at local auctions and on Ebay, but before you buy it pays to examine every item for cracks and chips. Once you’ve bought your delicate china tea set, don’t be afraid to use and enjoy it: with careful handling and maintenance it should last for generations to come.
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
QVardis DPS (Sep16) Final.qxp_QVardis DPS (Sep15) 23/08/2016 12:26 Page 2
36
QVardis DPS (Sep16) Final.qxp_QVardis DPS (Sep15) 23/08/2016 12:26 Page 3
37
149 St Paul’s Avenue Wexham Road Slough SL2 5EN 01753 770707
Self-Storage on your Doorstep! ∙ Flexible
∙ Simple
∙ Convenient
∙ Safe
A variety of room sizes to suit all needs Secure PIN-coded, alarmed units with 24/7 access Humidity and temperature monitored units for optimum storage conditions Packing materials - boxes, tape, bubble wrap and more Plus a complimentary removal service – we will move your goods into your new storage room free of charge!
Get more information, advice or a quote on 01895 770 707 or visit www.space-station.co.uk
space-station.co.uk Looking after your valuables since 1983 38
39
QVa
40
41
Health
By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk
Migraine Awareness Week: It’s Not ‘Just’ A Headache
Migraine is one of the WHO’s ‘most disabling lifetime conditions’. Yet it’s often poorly understood and trivialised. Migraine Awareness Week, from 4th–10th September, aims to change that. What is Migraine? Migraine isn’t ‘just a bad headache’. Suffered by three times as many women as men, it’s a complex set of symptoms often including headache, triggered by physiological changes yet with no known ‘cause’. However, triggers have been identified: • Stress or excitement – although some migraines start when stress is relieved. • Hunger/lack of food, causing fluctuating/low blood sugar levels. • Dehydration. • Sleep (too little or too much). • Change of routine. • Alcohol. • Caffeine. • Prolonged screen time – due to screen glare or flickering and muscle tension. • Hormonal changes in women. • Environmental factors – changes in temperature, humidity and altitude, loud noises, flickering or glaring lights, smells. • Jaw tension, coughing, unaccustomed exertion or illness. Most experts now discount tyramine, found in soft cheeses and wine, as a trigger. 42
Types and Symptoms Most common are: Migraine with aura (10-30% of migraines). Neurological symptoms occur first, usually lasting less than an hour, normally followed by a headache. Most common symptoms are tunnel vision, double vision, blind spots or temporary blindness, flashing lights and sparkling/coloured spots, stars or zigzags. However, some people also experience weakness on one side or partial paralysis, dizziness, vertigo, numbness or tingling, disturbance to speech, hearing and memory, fear or confusion, and fainting, particularly if they suffer from migraine with brainstem aura and hemiplegic migraine, which are rare subtypes. Migraine without aura: (70-90% of migraines). Attacks usually last 4-72 hours if untreated. The headache is usually a throbbing pain, often on one side, which worsens on exertion. It’s frequently accompanied by nausea and sometimes vomiting, diarrhoea and light or sound sensitivity. Menstrual Migraine (usually without aura) affects fewer than 10% of women. Experts believe it’s triggered by falling oestrogen levels and/or prostaglandin release during the menstrual cycle. It normally occurs on the two days before, and the first three days during, a period, and often lasts longer than other types. Preventing Migraine Avoiding triggers, following a regular routine, and eating, sleeping and exercising healthily can help. Your GP may recommend preventative medications such as topiramate
and propranolol for severe and/or frequent migraines. Treating Migraine Take medications swiftly, as the stomach often stops working effectively during a migraine. Try: • Over-the-counter painkillers. • From pharmacies: medications containing pain relief and an anti-emetic that alleviates nausea and vomiting and aids painkiller absorption. • From your GP: triptan medications, which reverse the blood vessel dilation thought to cause migraine. For menstrual migraine, ask about hormonal contraceptives, oestrogen supplements and mefenamic acid (an anti-inflammatory painkiller that can also alleviate heavy periods). • Botox injections – which may work by interrupting the pain feedback pathway to the brain. • Resting in a darkened room or having a nap. See Your GP if you’ve never had migraine before or suffer from migraine more than 5 days in a month, even if your pain is under control with medication. You may require a preventative medicine. Seek Emergency Medical Advice if you experience: • Paralysis or weakness in either arm or face. • Slurred/ garbled speech. • A sudden agonising headache. • Headache with a high temperature, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision and rash. For support and more information: Migraine Action: www.migraine.org.uk The Migraine Trust: www. migrainetrust.org/ The National Migraine Centre: www.nationalmigrainecentre. org.uk/
43
44
45
Memories of 50 Years Ago by Ted Bruning and Nichelle Nichols – although her episode was never aired because its themes of racism and sexual violence were considered too controversial. The Lieutenant was eventually cancelled, and Roddenberry revived an earlier idea for series about a round-the-world voyage in an airship crewed by multi-ethnic adventurers. The revived idea put the crew aboard a starship, though – an unusual twist at the time since although science fiction writing was in its heyday, the reputation of sci-fi on film had been so tarnished by the B-movies of the 1950s that there was very little of it about. Nonetheless, NBC financed a pilot which was tested at the end of 1964 – and flopped. But CBS was working on Lost In Space, so NBC decided to keep plugging away at sci-fi and financed a second pilot, Where No Man Has Gone Before. This time the test audiences were more receptive, and in May 1966 the first proper episode, The Man Trap, went into production. Five days before it went out, Roddenberry hosted a screening of Where No Man at the World Science Fiction Convention and got a standing ovation. But ratings didn’t live up to expectations and Star Trek looked set to be cancelled after the first season. Roddenberry therefore enlisted the help of the leading sci-fi writers of the day including Isaac Asimov to write to NBC urging a second season. NBC was persuaded, and Asimov also suggested a few improvements. Even this didn’t help: a third season was made after 1,000 fans marched on the studio, but it was shifted
to a worse timeslot. Ratings fell again and the show was cancelled. Roddenberry took it hard. He worked desperately to revive the franchise, but to no avail – a cartoon version was made in 1973, but achieved little. Meanwhile Roddenberry had turned to drink and drugs, and a divorce left him penniless. He produced several TV pilots which were never commissioned and scraped a thin living appearing at sci-fi conventions. However, more and more foreign TV stations were buying the original series and it was slowly developing worldwide cult status. The release of Star Wars in 1977 made sci-fi popular, and a second series, Phase II, was considered. The script developed into Star Trek: The Movie, which was a huge hit; Roddenberry was taken on again to write Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan; and the franchise snowballed from there. Unfortunately the drink and drugs had taken their toll on Roddenberry. He worked on Star Trek: The Next Generation in 1987, had a stroke in 1989, and died in 1991. The franchise he created currently runs to 13 films and six TV treatments; so far it’s made $4 BILLION.
It’s a constant source of amazement to me how close one of the most valuable franchises in TV history came to fizzling out. But Star Trek – first shown on NBC on 8th September 1966 and cancelled after only three seasons – only just escaped that fate and its creator, Gene Roddenberry, ruined his health and nearly went bankrupt fighting for its survival. After war service as a bomber pilot Roddenberry became an airline pilot, but quit after a serious air-crash and joined the Los Angeles Police public information office instead. He started writing TV scripts after acting as consultant on a courtroom drama series, and in 1956 he quit the police to go full-time, working mainly on cop shows and westerns. He was fired from a series about a Mississippi paddle-steamer for insisting that there ought to be at least one black cast member, a stance on racism that became a hallmark of his, but apart from that incident his career quickly blossomed and he soon started producing as well as writing. His first successful pitch for a series of his own led to NBC commissioning The Lieutenant, a drama set in a US Marine Corps training camp. Guest roles in its 29 episodes went to many actors later to join Star Trek, including Leonard Nimoy 46
Happy 50tH BirtHdays to Salma Hayek (2nd); Toby Jones (7th); Adam Sandler (9th); Ruth Jones (22nd); and Shirley Manson (26th).
Cake and botox to you all!
touch !
Golden Years
47
The E Class is the kind of car that Mercedes does best, a big comfortable saloon that fulfils the role of station taxi, luxury express or tarmac shredding hot rod with equal aplomb. Un fortunately, the last version launched in 2010 left me a little cold. Technically it featured a wealth of innovations but, to drive, it was little different to its highly accomplished predeces sor. Mercedes had also gone ultra conservative with the styl ing and it was as staid and un derstated as a German banker to look at. However, the new C Class really broke the mould with its curvaceous form and cutting edge interior when it was launched two years ago; can the latest E Class take a leaf from its book? Let’s start with the styling. It doesn’t have the flamboyance of the C Class or the under stated grandeur of the S Class, instead sitting somewhere in between. It still has a big grill and long bonnet, but the head lights are sleeker and more compact. The flanks are more sculpted and the roofline more curved, but the biggest differ ence is the boot; neat and ta pered, it is positively pert. Over all, this is a nice looking car, wellproportioned and very much of the moment.
luxurious, particularly if it has cream leather as my test car did. The heavily contoured seats both look and are su premely comfortable and there is even more space than there was before, courtesy of a longer wheelbase. The leather trim extends to the top of the dash, the carpets are deep and the faux wood gleams. The dash doesn’t feature anything as old fashioned as dials and gauges, instead there is a large screen in front of the driver which can be set to show whichever dials you want, along with a small satnav screen. The centre screen is devoted to settings and the infotainment system and, as you would hope, there is an impressive array of kit as standard.
Virtually every E Class sold in the UK will have a diesel engine under the bonnet. The 3.0 litre V6 remains much the same as before but the old 2.1 four pot has been replaced by a 2.0 litre unit which is used in both the 220 and 250d specs. I tried the 220 version and can confirm that it is superb. It is extremely refined, very smooth and seam lessly powerful. The 192bhp power output is not outrageous but, coupled with a 9 speed auto, it gets up to 62mph in 7.3 seconds and on to a top whack of 149mph, the kind of perform Inside it borrows heavily from ance reserved for the E350 the S Class and looks deeply previously. On paper at least, it 48
also manages 70mpg.
better
than
The car I tried had the air sus pension option and to my mind it is worth every penny of the extra cost. The ride is truly sumptuous with barely a bump or tremor entering the cabin. The handling is equally com posed with plenty of grip and almost no body roll, but the steering lacks feel and agility; I don’t think BMW will be overly troubled by this car, at least as a driver’s machine. The new E Class is lighter, roomier, faster and more eco nomical than the last genera tion. It is also better equipped and much better looking; in fact, it is better in almost every re spect, as you would expect from a new model. It isn’t as sporty as an Audi or a BMW, or even as a C Class for that matter, but that has never been what the E Class is all about. It is as solid as a tank, as comfortable as a limo and it features state of the art technology. It’s a little pricey too, £2000 more than the equivalent BMW 5 Series, but the best things in life always cost a little bit more.
Ch
49
Short Story
The Bucket of Damsons
The presence of a muddy bike abandoned on the grass verge made Marion suspect that the creature perched high in the branches of her damson tree was no bird. “You’d better not be scrumping,” Marion said, wrapping her pashmina tightly around her shoulders, “I’ll be having a word with your mother.” “You don’t know her.” A girl, no older than twelve, peered down through the foliage. She’d come prepared. A large bucket swung from her juice-stained hand. “You’re trespassing,” Marion said with annoyance. “That tree borders my property. All the fruit belongs to me.” “You can’t own a tree,” the girl said, “it’s a living thing.” “What utter nonsense,” Marion said crossly. “Of course you can.”
“Why don’t you climb down with your bucket?” Marion said cunningly, “And I will take my share from what you’ve picked. The rest you can keep as a picker’s fee.” The girl considered this for a moment. “How about,” she replied, “I take my share from the bucket and you get what’s left instead?” “Certainly not,” said Marion. This child really had some cheek. “Don’t forget those are my damsons and you are a thief.” “If you cared about them you’d have picked them already,” the girl said. “I’m the one who’s taken all the risks.” “But you didn’t ask permission,” Marion said, outraged.
The girl looked dubious.
There was a steely look in the girl’s eye. Then she smiled.
“Last year all the plums just fell into the lane and got ruined,” the girl said. “That’s a waste, and we’re taught not to waste food.”
“How about we play a game?” she said. “I tip this bucket and whatever you catch you keep, and whatever falls on the ground I keep.”
Marion felt a twinge of guilt. Last year she had intended to pick the damsons, but it meant getting the step ladder out of the garage and she’d never got round to it.
“But I’ve got nothing to catch them in,” Marion said, annoyed. She didn’t much like games.
“They’re not plums,” she said firmly, “they’re damsons.”
“I don’t trust you,” Marion said, “the minute I’m gone you’ll be off with the lot.”
“They taste like plums,” the girl replied tartly. “So you’ve been eating them as well?” Marion asked. “Just the one,” the girl grinned. “It was juicy.” 50
“Then nip into your house for a bowl.” The girl smiled sweetly. “As big as you like.”
The girl looked offended. “Brownie’s honour I would not,” she said. “Alright then, why not catch them in your scarf?” “It’s not a scarf, it’s a
pashmina,” Marion said, then realised what a good idea that was. The girl clearly wasn’t aware just how big her pashmina was. If she held it taut she could catch every damson, and the annoying child would end up with none at all. “Alright then,” Marion agreed, “you’ve got yourself a deal.” She unfolded the length of fabric. “Not fair!” the girl cried. “It’s massive.” “You can’t back out now,” Marion said, pleased that the balance of power had been redressed. “Alright,” the girl conceded reluctantly, “get ready then.” Marion squinted up into the branches of the tree with the pashmina outstretched like a fireman’s net. The girl wedged herself against a branch and held up the bucket. Slowly it began to tip. Marion braced herself. Frist there was a strange rattling sound, then a slurry of wet damson stones rained down upon her. “You know how I said I’d only eaten one?” the girl laughed, swinging nimbly down with her empty bucket. “Well, I might have been lying.” By Jackie Brewster
51
Back To School Tech
The best kit to pack for your kids
As if buying new clothes, bags and accessories wasn’t expensive enough, the back to school period also means buying gadgets - but which ones will actually benefit your child when they head to school, college or university? The right gadgets really do make a difference, but don’t rush to spend more money than you need to. Some form of computer is essential, especially for students away from home: it’s not just a tool for learning, but for communicating, music, movies and TV too. The key question today is whether a laptop or a tablet is better. Both cost around the same - unless you’re going for an Apple laptop, you can get a very good laptop for less than £400, which is around the same price as an iPad - but it’s important to check whether your child’s school, college or university has specific requirements. For example, some statistical software requires Windows, and while you can make Windows work on a Mac that involves extra expense - and it isn’t an option at all on an iPad. If you’re buying software, look for student versions: programs such as Microsoft Office come in student editions that cost a fraction of the normal price. 52
There’s no doubt that Apple computers are the most desirable computers for students, but they’re also the most expensive ones: Apple’s cheapest laptop, the MacBook Air, starts at £749. A better option may be to buy a second-hand MacBook Pro, as the 2012 model is still current, available online for around £400 and can be upgraded with fast SSD storage for around £50. Alternatively, keep an eye out for “refurb” deals. That’s when brand new laptops have been returned for some reason, checked and put on sale again. They can’t be sold as new anymore so they attract significant discounts. The other essential, for older children at least, is a smartphone. If he or she doesn’t already have one, the best buy on the market is the Moto G4. It’s a powerful Android phone with a price tag of just £169, and it’s powerful enough to remain current for several academic years. Once you’ve got the phone you can then shop around for either a pay as you go deal, where you buy credit in advance and top it up as required, or a SIM-only deal, which is a monthly contract giving you a certain amount of data, calls and texts. Reading is a big part of the
educational process, of course, and electronic books can save you a great deal of money. Amazon has just updated its Kindle range of ebook readers, and the £59.99 model is arguably the best value Kindle so far. You can spend more on Kindles with all kinds of whizzy features, but we wouldn’t. One other product you might want to consider is gadget insurance. That isn’t the same as an extended warranty, and it’s important to understand the difference: extended warranties such as Apple’s AppleCare don’t cover accidental damage such as water spills, which can easily do hundreds of pounds worth of damage to a laptop. Your home insurance or current account may already provide such insurance, but it’s worth checking the small print carefully to ensure the kids’ gadgets are covered away from home and that the excesses aren’t excessive. Lots of companies have insurance policies specifically designed for students’ computers and smartphones, and sites such as money.co.uk enable you to compare the cover, cost and excesses quickly. Images L to R: Apple iPad mini 4; Toshiba Satellite C55; Motorola Moto G4; Amazon Kindle (2016 model)
53
Karen Munro Careers (Sep16).qxp_Layout 1 23/08/2016 18:13 Page 1
KAREN MUNRO MAC RCDP Career Coach www.munrocareers.co.uk
twitter - @munrocareers facebook - munrocareers
Karen is a professional and qualified Careers Practitioner and Trainer who provides support in all aspects of Career Development and Transition including effective CV Coaching, Interview Skills and Networking Techniques. A member of the Association of Coaching and registered with the Careers Professional Alliance, she works with both private and business clients around London and the South East who are looking for career change, direction, motivation and support. She works as an Associate Career Coach for a number of organisations including Personal Career Management Ltd and is part of the MOD contract providing career support and guidance to Military Personnel transitioning in to civilian life. Karen contributes to ‘In and Around’ every month sharing her practical knowledge and wealth of experience with her local community.
Don’t Dream of Winning... IT was only a short time ago we were all gripped by the amazing accomplishments at the Olympics in Rio. Once again Team GB did us proud! So, I thought I would write this months’ article to keep the spirit of the Olympics fresh in our minds. Athletes spend years training and preparing for their chance to compete at the Olympics. They will work hard to visualise and bring their goal in to reality. When you are looking to secure your next job or next career, you also need to take your time and prepare. Just like Team GB it’s important to have your goal in sight and to spend every day preparing and training to reach your goal. Train hard. Don’t give up at the first hurdle. There will always be hurdles, sometimes there will be lots of them one after the other but it’s about tackling them one at a time and being focussed about continuing towards your goal. You cannot, and should not, expect to get there straight away. Imagine your career goal is a 10 on a scale of 1-10. You are at step 1. You cannot get to 10 without going through stages 2 through to 9 in sequence. So, if you know what 10 looks like, you know what your goal is and you know what number 1 looks like because you are there. It’s much easier to plan, prepare and train for your career goal if you break it down in to bite-sized pieces you can achieve gradually. It will also be easier for you to measure your progress. Steps 2-3 are all about research. You need to research your career goal thoroughly. What does it look like and what skills do you need? How is the job role or industry doing in the current jobs market? Steps 3-4 are about identifying your transferable skills. Be aware and be confident about what you have 54
to offer. Analyse and identify what you have to offer as we typically under-sell ourselves. Make sure your skills are demonstrated loud and clear in your C.V. Steps 5-6 are about identifying and tackling any obstacles. Is there anything preventing you from achieving your career goal? May you need to do some further training or qualifications . You might need to gain more experience and perhaps some voluntary work or work experience could help you with this. In difficult times, voluntary work can be rewarding and stimulating and it can also equip you with the additional skills and experience you need to make the transition required in to your next career Steps 7-8 are about networking. Who is in your network who can help you? Who could you be connected to? Maybe consider expanding your network. Steps 9-10 are about reaching your goal – winning the gold! If you work hard and put yourself out there you will succeed and reach your goal.
“Don’t dream of winning, train for it”!
Karen
Mo Farah
Martin’s Carpet Cleaning Company
• Carpets dry in 1 to 2 hours
• Upholstery Cleaning • Leather Cleaning • Rug Cleaning Safe and Non toxic eco friendly cleaning solutions Satisfaction guaranteed OR you pay NOTHING
Free phone: 0800 118 2898 M: 07590 047242
55
Finance
By Ann Haldon
What Exactly Is A Credit Score, And How
Does It Impact On Your Life? Judgements have been Experian, Equifax, made against you for nonand Callcredit. payment, or if you have Your credit rating been made bankrupt in the is made up of various aspects
past.
of thethe information idea of closing permanently • If youthis are on the electoral an they hold about roll. online petition has been started which can you, which is Slough As members of HACAN we participated in be reached at • chn.ge/1WZDcMq. How many times you have contained within Councilapplied credit.created an Borough have foralso writing to Theresa May in conjunction with your credit onlinereport. simple questionnaire subject other residents’ associations and action • The length ofon timethe your bank account has beenatopen. and this reached groups to outline our objections to Heathrow Any County Court can be Expansion. We await the government’s Judgements If you’re married or living with When you on apply forexpected credit or when (CCJs) or other markers of are a also Slough decision this parliament partner organising and have a jointdropin other typesinofthe borrowing, the insolvency/bankruptcy remain consultation sessions this you’ll subject, resumes Autumn. mortgageon or loan, also the th lender will participated check your credit on your credit file for sixone years, from first being see on September 27with We also in beta testing a newly a financial link this 4pm score to see if web you areapplication a good so eventothough beat Christ tocan 8pm The Worker Centre developed due be you person. This canChurch adversely or bad risk. Your credit rating This discharged from bankruptcy in Road, in Parlaunt Langley. launched by Heathrow. will allow affect your rating if they have also comes play in other 12 months, air the fact is evident people to into compare overall overflying experienced their own financial situations, and any has the potential your report much problems. traffic over point on theonground as for a to affect every aspect of your period defined by a postcode. longer This willof time. so How could a low life. complement their current application Later this month Iver Parish Council will be How is a credit score credit score impact A low score means that you which identifies distributing a consultation questionnaire to formulated? on your life? may have toaircraft pay an and increased households by post, onlinea and email. individual allows you to submit a all A number between zero and Difficulty in getting mortgage rate of interest counteract The to importanceEven of getting responses to this complaint if to you feel it to be999 excessively is used as a guide if you find a lender willing the riskortooverflying a lender. This hasit should not be. cannot be overemphasised in terms of noisy when lenders and other interested to offer you a mortgage, the massive implications if you’re future and planning for rate thewillarea including parties, such as landlords interest probably be trying to obtain a mortgage, as parking station. make an utility companies, about yourat themuch higher, Please and you won’t a effort to respond. They to will also try and poor credit rating can mean ability to repay. A high score have access the better deals. less product choice and higher to a low hold risk as as a far meeting if possible. The dropin exhibition at the translates Village Hall Having a low credit score is monthly repayments. they are Ifconcerned – in other was attended by around 250 people. you often an indication that you Even financial outlaysit there, words, the can lower the score the didn’tsmaller manage to make you can’t afford a mortgage, but such a new mobileand phone moreonline problems view as the material responses at you could face. unfortunately it can also affect contract involves a check Asand always this monthly your ability to rent. article with Scores between 721 999 we finish on your credit file by the a request to those households are generally considered a Problems renting who have provider, so it’s a good idea to lower risk, but there arerenewed other not their subscription foryour this year A landlord will check understand what constitutes factors that influence your the effort to make to return the subscription credit score if they see that your credit rating, and whether overall rating: havesteward been missed envelope to payments their road or to you can do anything to improve • Your previous history of or that you are not on the Costcutter Stores. If you have mislaid the it in the future. This has now taken place and is repayment. noticeably envelope then any electoral role, they viewput envelope willcould do, just adding considerably to traffic congestion incredit is available you as untrustworthy and an • How much credit reference your address on it so we know where it Richings Park, Iver High Street and Langley unnecessary risk. to you. agencies came from! at themain beginning and end of day •rush The hours. level of debt. Three credit reference Personal loans and other To add exist pressure to drop agencies in the on UK –Network Rail finance • Whether any County Court 56
Obtaining car finance will be difficult if your credit score is low, as this is the main factor on which a lender bases their decision. It’s not only the large purchases that can be stifled, however – you may when also encounter problems trying to increase your bank overdraft or when requesting a higher limit on your credit card. Limited ways to pay Your credit report can impact on the way you pay for goods in shops. With so many store and reward cards now available, they are a popular way to amass points and enjoy reductions in-store. Again, your credit score will be checked if you apply for this type of card, and along with the information on your application form, will influence the company’s decision.
How to improve your credit score over time
that they amend your report, and add a comment against the entry to explain that it is incorrect. • If a spouse or partner has a poor credit score, you can apply for a financial disassociation.
• Make sure you’re on the electoral register, as a permanent address increases confidence that you’re trustworthy. • Pay at least the monthly minimum on your credit cards. • Cancel any unused credit cards appearing on your credit report - too much available credit adds to your risk from the lender’s viewpoint. • Check for mistakes on your credit report, with all three agencies – you can request
A good credit score can make your life more straightforward, so it’s worthwhile reviewing your credit report every so often to make sure that all the details are correct, and also to check for any suspicious activity. It’s possible to obtain a copy from any of the credit reference agencies for a few pounds.
If your credit rating is low, or you feel that it could be better, there are specific actions you can take to improve it over the long-term:
http://uk.businessinsider. com/how-your-credit-scorecan-impact-your-life-20165?r=US&IR=T https://www.sainsburysbank. co.uk/money-matters/guide-tocredit-scores.shtml
57
It is spring bulb time in all the garden centres now; they should be crammed full of bulbs, many at a reasonable price and all of which promise to provide glorious masses of colour for years to come. By all means plant bulbs in beds and borders, but if you only have a terrace, patio or a back yard, then there are still plenty of bulb planting opportunities to be had! Bulbs have the potential to make any garden look gorgeous, but you can use them to add an element of fun as well as glamour, colour and perfume. Bulbs look fantastic if allowed to naturalise beneath trees, but miniature varieties look equally good beneath shrubs. Choose miniature daffodils or crocuses and plant them in a scattered effect beneath the shrub, taking care to minimise damage to the shrub’s roots. Keep them well watered in spring and you should have a fantastic display. Ornamental plastic-lined woven baskets, which are available inexpensively from local markets or on the internet, make perfect planting containers provided they are at least 3” (8 cm) deep. Shallower baskets can be 58
Brilliant Bulbs by Pippa Greenwood
used for smaller bulbs such as crocuses - simply fill them with bulb fibre and plant up as you would a bowl of indoor bulbs. To ensure adequate drainage, puncture some holes in the plastic liner and use any normal multi-purpose or loam based compost mixture. Baskets like this look particularly decorative in the spring, and if you add a couple of ferns or ivies to larger baskets they will look even better. An outdoor table is unlikely to be used for entertaining in spring, so simply cover it to prevent the surface being spoiled and arrange a selection of pots full of spring bulbs on it – the effect can be really splendid. An old bucket - particularly an enamelled or galvanized one - makes a fabulous planter, but remember to drill some holes in the base or place a layer of pebbles or grit at least 2” (5cm) deep in the bottom, so that excess water accumulates below the level of the roots and the bulbs do not rot off.
If your garden or back yard is a good size, then large containers will look particularly handsome. Packed with a single variety of one of the daffodils or tulips
or any other spring bulbs, they will make a striking display. Plant the container up in two layers, so that one lot of bulbs is a couple of inches deeper than the other, and the deeper ones will flower later than those planted closer to the surface to prolong the display.
An old bathroom suite or parts of it make wacky and unusual planters. A bath may need a lot of compost to fill it – and don’t forget drainage - but it can act like a full-sized flowerbed. Even a hand basin, lavatory or the cistern can be planted up to great effect. Old watering cans, wheelbarrows or even a decrepit pair of wellies or boots with a hole in them will also make wonderful planters and will save you a fortune! Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for Pippa’s ‘Winter thru’ Spring’ collection of vegetables for planting next month, along with a really useful selection of Pippa’s favourite gardening items including Nemaslug to control slugs, pop-up crop covers, SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, ladybirds to control greenfly, pull-out mini tunnels, signed books and lots more besides.
59
Pets Corner... (Sep16).qxp_Layout 1 23/08/2016 18:37 Page 1
Autumn Survival Guide...
AFTER being reluctant to appear, we finally had quite a warm summer. This means that there will be an abundance of grass seeds or darts about. These commonly find their way into dog’s ears and between their toes and can be extremely painful. It is always best to check your dog’s coat after any walks near long grass and remove these before they can cause trouble. Grass darts can also affect cats but they tend to get into their eyes and can cause painful corneal ulcers but can in rare cases penetrate the skin causing an abscess. Autumn fruits if picked up and eaten by dogs can cause serious stomach upsets. Acorns can be poisonous if eaten and conkers can cause potentially life threatening intestinal obstructions if swallowed.
Harvest mites are common in the Autumn and live in long grass before appearing as clusters of orange dots on feet, ears, eyelids and belly and can be very irritant. Although we are not sure, harvest mites have been associated with Seasonal Canine Illness (SCI), a sporadic but often fatal disease. SCI may also be associated with Autumn fungi which dogs may scavenge. It is therefore advisable to keep dogs on the lead in wooded areas, keep to pathways and maintain anti-parasite treatment with a product that treats mites. Ticks are also more common in Autumn. They spend most of their life cycle in overgrown areas especially in woods and heaths and can carry some serious diseases. Ticks will attach to passing animals (humans included!) and suck the blood for several days before dropping off. Fortunately ticks won’t live indoors like fleas however, they can carry some potentially fatal diseases like Lyme disease and Babesiosis . Thankfully these are rare locally but Lyme disease is not uncommon where sheep and deer are grazing, and although Babesiosis has so far only been found in a few cases in Essex, it is likely to spread. Remember fleas are an all year round problem but usually reach epidemic proportions in late autumn so regular flea treatment is most important. And watch out for fly strike 60
in rabbits as flies remain active in a warm Autumn. Finally, be aware that this year has been a bumper one for slugs and snails and many are still around. Eating these can cause lungworm in dogs, so again keep treatment for this potentially fatal disease up-to-date.
There is no single product that protects against all these parasites and most pet shop products are ineffective, so ask your vet for advice.
M C Atkinson BVSc MRCVs www.stmartinsvetclinic.com
61
Home & Interiors
Use Colour with Confidence By Katherine Sorrell
Katherine Sorrell outlines how you can employ paint to colour your home beautiful. It’s fair to say that most of us are cautious about using colour; in fact, a survey by Dulux found that three-quarters of respondents were afraid of making the wrong colour choice. So how can we boost our colour confidence? Easy: arm yourself with a little knowledge and make the effort to experiment. You can always repaint if you don’t like the results. Where to start? Well, it’s a good idea to leaf through as many interiors books and magazines as you can get your hands on. A wealth of effort and experience has gone into producing room sets that work for all kinds of tastes. And don’t 62
forget that all the leading paint manufacturers produce masses of helpful information, from colour cards to brochures that demonstrate how different shades can be put together – and even interactive free apps where you can paint a virtual room without having to apply a single drop of paint: try Dulux’s Visualizer or Crown’s MyRoomPainter, for example. Consider the sizes of your rooms. Would you like to make a small room seem bigger, or a large room more cosy? The basic principles are that pale colours, because they contain a lot of white, seem to recede, enhancing a feeling of spaciousness, while darker colours absorb light and therefore appear more enclosing. Similarly, ‘cool’ colours such as blue and green are more distancing than ‘warm’ colours such as red and yellow. This is why people tend to use paler, cooler colours in small rooms, and white on low ceilings, reserving bolder or darker colours for large, bright rooms. That said, you can break the rules if you wish: perhaps by using a dark, warm colour to make a small room
feel welcoming and intimate. From a practical point of view, paint those parts of the house that show the dirt most quickly (a busy hallway or a child’s bedroom, for example) in a darkish shade. You might want to consider a high-gloss, washable surface finish, too.
A simple, one-colour scheme is relatively easy to get right – provided you choose the right colour. Combining two or more can be more challenging, but hugely rewarding. As Little Greene MD David Mottershead says: “Using paints effectively in interior design is a much more sophisticated process than selecting a single colour from a paint chart. One colour in isolation can be attractive, two in combination can be beautiful and three shades used together can be quite exquisite.” Once you have narrowed down your choices and tried the apps, Fired Earth’s creative director Rob Whitaker has some further tips that will help: “Think about creating a mood board of magazine cuttings and swatches to inspire you, layering colours and textures to build a balanced palette. Buy tester pots of the paints you’re considering so that you can see what they look like as the light changes throughout the day. To really get a feel for the colours, paint A4-sized pieces of paper and stick them to all of the walls that you’re planning to paint. Another trick is to paint the inside of a cardboard box so that you can see how the colour
changes as the walls reflect off each other.”
You may be happy with a classic colour palette that will last for years but, if you want to get on-trend, look out for fashion-forward hues. Dulux’s colour of the year is Cherished Gold, an earthy metallic that works well with both fresh pastels and rich jewel tones, while Pantone’s colours of
the year are Rose Quartz and a soft blue called Serenity. Crown’s autumn/winter palette is based around three looks: Out of the Dark, with black and charcoal plus dashes of bright yellow, pink and orange; Skyscapes, employing shades of blue mixed with grey and chalky neutrals; and Faded Berries, offsetting deep berry tones with mossy and grassy
greens. To conclude? Do your research, seek out your favourite style and either follow fashion or go your own way. The colour possibilities are endless. Image - Sherwood matt emulsion, Green Apple matt emulsion and Pastures matt emulsion; all £13.94 for 2.5l matt emulsion, Colours at B&Q, 0333 014 3098; www.diy.com.
NaTURaL PaINTS
Natural paints are generally made using combinations of ingredients such as linseed oil, lime, turpentine, citrus oil, chalk and earth and mineral pigments. They allow walls to breathe, so moisture is not trapped beneath - useful if your house is slightly damp - and they don’t become statically charged, thus reducing the build-up of dust on painted surfaces (good for allergy sufferers). Because they are more flexible, they tend not to crack or flake. They use either fully renewable raw materials or those that are in plentiful supply, and energy waste during manufacture is kept to a minimum. manufacturers claim they are just as effective as conventional paints – if not more so – and, what’s more, they smell nice! Brands include earthborn, Lakeland, auro, Nutshell, aglaia, Pots of Paint and eico.
63
64
PROTECT YOUR HARD EARNED ASSETS AND HOME
With some simple planning we will ensure that they are fully protected so that your loved ones receive their rightful inheritance. Please consider the following five questions: 1. Have you made a will, if so when was it reviewed? 2. How can I protect my children’s inheritance? 3. How do I protect my home and assets from care costs? 4. How can I preserve my business assets for my family? 5. What if I am unable to manage my affairs?
If you feel you could benefit from a free review of your existing arrangements then please call us on 01895 675631
WELBECK CONSULTANCY Looking after you, your family and generations to follow
T: 01895 675631 F: 01895 638765 E: info@welbeckconsultants.co.uk www.welbeckconsultants.co.uk
65
IVER What's On... Aug16.qxp_Layout 1 28/07/2016 21:02 Page 1
regular events...
hobbies...
art Classes Come & Join Us! Isabel Hunt, your local artist, teaches a new project every week, which can be a landscape, seascape, still life, pets, portraiture, etc. In the first 2 sessions equipment/materials are provided. at St Marys Church Hall St Marys Rd Langley SL3 7EN info: 07411 125407 or 01753 542209 chavi2000@hotmail.com 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 French sessions in iver French Intermediate Class. Small friendly group with French Native Teacher meets every Tues. Iver Village Hall 7.30-9.30pm from Sept 22nd 2015 Call 07940 281233 e: c.marionnet@blueyonder.co.uk 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 Mandarin tuition In Iver Heath. All welcome. Experienced teacher. Call Yuan on 07932 649107 or ynhyuan@yahoo.co.uk
66
keeP-Fit, danCe & draMa...
adults Zumba Classes Running on Wednesdays 6-7pm at Iver Heath Village Hall, St Margaret's Close. Call Diane 07926 854184. ballet Classes Iver Heath Village Hall, Friday 4.457pm. Call L Killian 01753 814280
8-9pm, Thurs 7-8pm. St Lawrence Church Hall Bridle Road Pinner Fri 9.30am. St Lukes Hall Love Lane Pinner Wed 7.45-8.45pm, Sat 910am. Wendy Whitefoord 07803 602142 e: wendy.whitefoord@ btinternet.com. See www.jazzerciseuk.com or facebook.com/ JazzerciseDenhamNewDenham
bokwa Fitness tone & Core Energetic workout that anyone can pick up, dancer or not. Wednesdays 6.15pm-7.10pm, Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Penny, 07771 872592/01895 420409; learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk
ladies only kickboxing Club Wednesdays, 6.30-8.00pm at Watts Hall, Redford Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1SZ. First Class FREE! Leanne Phillips on 07518 848285 email: leanne @kickboxing-longdon.co.uk www.kickboxing-london.co.uk
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
Military Fitness Class A good way to get fit and enjoy the outdoors, suitable for beginners Monday 7-8pm, Iver Heath Rec, Church Road, Iver Heath, SL0 0RD. £2 per session. 1st session FREE! info: Leon 01895 837334.
Free Family games event Second Saturday of every month - for parents, carers and guardians with children of all ages, at the Kings Church, Iver, 10am-midday - visit www.hartentertainment.co.uk for details or call 07747 063149 to let us know your coming. Open to all.
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 donna’s keep Fit Iver Heath Village Hall. Call Donna 01753 674945. Tue 9.45-10.45am Fitness Club St Catherine School, Money Lane, West Drayton, UB7 7NX. Thu 6-7pm Circuits, Fitness and Boxercise. £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, 07906 087749 www.tauruspt.co.uk iver health & exercise sessions for over 55's. Designed to keep over 55's fit and to suit all abilities. Session includes light lunch and activity. £5 includes lunch Fridays 10am-1pm Evreham Sports Centre, Swallow Street, Iver, SL0 0HS. Jazzercise Classes Jazzercise Classes New Denham Community Centre Oxford Road Mon 9.30-10.30am, Tues 6.45 - 7.45pm , Wed, Thurs , Fri 9.45-10.45am. Denham Village Memorial Hall Village Road Thurs 6.30-7.30pm. Ruislip Sports & Social Club Grosvenor Vale Mon 6.45-7.45pm Tues 9.30am, 7-8pm, Wed 9.30-10.30am. Pinner Methodist Church Love Lane Mon
nordic Walking & Wellbeing All round exercise in the open air, 4 week courses various days and locations pre booking essential contact 07771872592 / learningmoves@hotmailco.uk Personal training Looking for some extra help to get fit & into shape? For more info and prices call Rachel on 07745 622011 Pilates Iver Heath Village Hall on Thurs 7pm8pm call Mrs S Webb 01923 721335 Pilates Class Thursdays 9.30-10.30am. St Peter's Centre, Iver. All levels, booking essential. Call Rachel 07745 622011. 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 PiYo® Classes Sweat, stretch & strengthen all in one low-impact, music -driven, body sculpting workout. Tues 7-7.45pm. St Peter's Centre, Iver. £5 per class booking essential. Call Rachel on 07745 622011. continued overleaf...
67
IVER What's On... Sep16.qxp_Layout 1 23/08/2016 20:31 Page 2
KEEP-FIT, DANCE & DRAMA CONTINUED...
Yoga Iver Heath Village Hall.Mon 6.307.45pm. Jon Bell 07790 682238.
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 sometimes a live band. If you like to reminisce, do come along and join us! Contact Derek on 01753 654398
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 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 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 Every Saturday 10-11am, Yiewsley Methodist Church, Fairfield Road, UB7 8EY. Call Dan 07880 601429. Toddler & Junior Fitness Fun Junior Trampolining Weds 4.30pm5.30pm held at the Evreham Sports Centre Iver. Call 01753 672610. Weight Watchers Chalfont St Peter Community Centre SL9 9QX. Wednesdays, 7pm. Iver Village Hall, SL0 9NW. Thursdays, 6.30pm. Iver Heath Village Hall SL0 0DA Saturdays, 9am Call Nicky 07443 567244 nicky_iverww@hotmail.com www.weightwatchers.co.uk 68
ZUMBA in Langley Mon 7-8pm & Tues 7-8pm St. Mary's Church Centre. Thurs 7-8pm St. Francis Church Hall.
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 Tuesday during term time from 19:00-20.30 at Iver Heath Village Hall, St Margaret’s Close, Bucks, SL0 0DA. New members welcome. FREE first session. No auditions. Call 07733 466177 www.iversingers.com.
Learn to Play in a Rock Band At a professional recording studio taught by expert musicians. Open to 7-18 year olds, we teach guitar, bass, drums and vocals in small groups and as a band. Sessions will run after school at R'n'R Studios, Uxbridge starting October. Contact Conor for details on 07946 402797 or email wlsr.uxb@gmail.com Richings Players Amateur theatre group perform three shows per year at Iver Village Hall. Contact Evelyn on 07950 039827 richingsplayers@mail.com See www.richingsplayers.co.uk.
Signature A Cappella singers Monday night at Iver Heath Village Hall, St Margaret’s Close, Iver Heath SLO 0DQ. 7.45-10.30 with a ten minute break.If you enjoy singing please come along or visit www.signaturesingers.com Stoke Poges Singers A friendly four-part choir singing a wide variety of music. New members always welcome - no auditions. 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
The Rock Project Greater London We teach 7-18 year olds how to play guitar, bass, drums and vocals in small groups and as a band. Wed's at Nower Hill High School, Pinner and Thurs at Vyners School, Ickenham. Juniors (7-11) 4.15-6.15pm and Seniors (11-18) 6.30-8.30pm. £20 per two - hourly session. Contact Pritpal on 07855 863058 or email uxbridge@therockproject.com Yiewsley & West Drayton Band Rehearse every Wednesday and Friday 8-10pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. ontact Lynne on 07976 824152 or Lynne@ywdband.com Yiewsley & West Drayton Training Band Open to all ages wanting to learn to play a brass instrument or 'brush up' your skills. Rehearse every Wed during TT. 6.45-7.45pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. Contact Abi on 07985 302 856 or emailtraining@ywdband.com continued overleaf...
MILITARY FITNESS CLASS — SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS
The aim of the class is to give everyone a fun and effective form of training using the highly professional skills learnt in the military. Exercises done are usually body weight (either your own or that of a partner) to perform a wide range of individual, partner and team speed, strength, agility and stamina exercises – all tried and tested by the military.
ALL SESSIONS SUPERVISED BY A FULLY QUALIFIED INSTRUCTOR SESSIONS COST £2— FIRST SESSION FREE! CLASSES SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS OR PEOPLE WANTING TO TRY FOR FIRST TIME SESSIONS TAKE PLACE ON GRASS SO PLEASE BRING APPROPRIATE FOOTWEAR
EVERY MONDAY 7.00PM—8.00PM at Iver Heath Rec, Church Road, Iver Heath, Iver, SL0 0RD For further details and to book call 01895 837 334 Or e-mail
Leon.Popplewell@gll.org 69
IVER What's On... Jul16.qxp_Layout 1 30/06/2016 05:40 Page 3
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 PRE-SCHOOL & KIDS GROUPS... Iver Village Pre-School open Mon-Fri from 9am-3pm, we take children between the ages of 2-5 yrs. Funding is available for 2, 3 & 4 year olds. For more details contact Sandra Davis on 01753 654859 or theoffice@ivervillagepreschool.co.uk French for Children with La Jolie Ronde, 5-11yrs. In Iver, Saturdays. Call Estelle 07831 779888 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 12-
70
18 yrs). Fees £2 per week, courses from £5 for a weekend. Visit us on Facebook, pop-in or email: sloughseacadets@yahoo.co.uk
Karate (Adults & Children) Iver Heath Village Hall on Tues & Thurs. Kids 7-8pm, Adults 8-9.30pm. Call Sensei R. Baker 07898 946330.
Sticky Fingers Mothers & Toddlers Iver Heath Village Hall, Wednesday 9.30-11.30am. Call Janet Beale 01753 652375
Karate Club of Denham / Uxbridge For ages 5 years and up. Sunday 9.15-11am at New Denham Community Centre, Oxford Road. Wed 5-7pm at The Greenway, Uxbridge. Call Dominic on 07988 743725.
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 ed. activities. Iver 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 Full day care nursery for children aged six weeks to five years open from 8am-6pm Mon-Fri. Evreham Centre, Swallow Street, Iver, SL0 0HS. Call Susan on 01753 655650 tinytoes@ivercommunity.org SELF DEFENCE... Close Quarter Combat In Richings Park. Speed, strength and conditioning training. All types of pad work combinations. Suitable for adults of all ages. 1-2-1 sessions. Call Mark 07525 366126 email: mj.wilding@hotmail.com
Kung Fu Club West Drayton Great Kung Fu work out 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 kuntao.matjan.uk@gmail.com. SELF HELP... Alcoholics Anonymous Every Sun, 7.30pm, St Leonards Hall, St Leonards Walk, Richings Park, Iver, SL0 9DD. Call Howard 07816 315688. Slimming World Tuesday 5.30pm and 7.30pm and Wednesday 9.30am at Evreham Sports Centre, Iver Heath Contact Kate: 07432 107089 Weight Watchers Chalfont St Peter Community Centre Weds 7pm. Iver Village Hall Thurs 6.30pm. Iver Heath Village Hall. Sats 9am. Contact Nicky 07443 567244 nicky_iverww@hotmail.com continued overleaf...
71
IVER What's On... Aug16.qxp_Layout 1 28/07/2016 21:02 Page 4
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. Colne Valley Park Conservation Volunteers Every second weekend of the month. Hands on help to protect the wildlife and landscape of the regional park. For more details contact Steve Ord steven.ord@groundwork.org.uk or call 07718 043080. 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 Inspirations Spiritualist Group Spiritualist group for like-minded people. Weekly services with a guest Medium every Thursday at The Walter Pomeroy Hall, Royal Lane, Hillingdon, UB8 3QY. 7.15pm for 7.45pm start. Admission £5 Concessions £4.50 Accompanied Children u16 - FREE. Enqs: 07968 039426 or 0208 841 4901. Iver & District Countryside Assoc., If you enjoy walks in the country and social evenings, why not join us? Call Paul Graham 01753 655183 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 2nd Tuesday of the month in Iver Heath Village Hall at 2pm. A group of ladies who enjoy speakers, outings, lunches and more. Visitors welcome, £1.50 admission. Contact tricia.cooper3@virginmedia.com or call 01753 817749. Iver Heath Community Library The Library is open: Tues 9.30-1pm & 2-5pm . Thurs 9.30-1pm & 2-6pm.Sat 10am-1pm. Free membership of all Bucks libraries Free public pc & Wi-fi. Reading Group, craft group, bounce
72
and rhyme for toddlers, childrens crafts , coffee mornings enqs: 0845 2303232 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 Pinewood Hotel, George Green, Uxbridge Road, Slough 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 wide range of interests. Call 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? 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 & Wednesday at Rickmansworth Golf Club, new members welcome. Email ladies-captain@ rickmansworthgolf club.co.uk or call 07941 589445. Learn to Sail! We are an RYA approved training centre and are open to new members, www.kingsmeadsc.org.uk FREE sailing taster sessions! 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
6 8 0 2 4 6 0 4 6 8 0 2 4 2 4 6 8 0 2 4 6 7 8 0 2 4 4 2 4
se is pt by s. In rt 73
Cod, Prawn and Parsley Pie Serves 6
Ready in 1 hour 15 minutes Cod and prawns in a smooth herby white sauce topped with fluffy mash – it’s the ultimate fish pie!
Cook the potatoes in a large pan of boiling, lightly salted water for 15-20 minutes until tender.
Ingredients: • 1.6kg floury potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Meanwhile, place the cod in a large frying pan and pour over the milk. Add the bay leaf and peppercorns and bring to the boil. Simmer for 5 minutes then remove from the heat. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cod from the pan and set aside. Strain the milk into a large heatproof jug.
• 750g cod fillet • 1L milk • 1 bay leaf • Few black peppercorns • 75g butter • 50g plain flour
Melt 50g of the butter in a medium saucepan. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 850ml of the milk. Bring to the boil, stirring all the time, then simmer for 3-4 minutes until you have a smooth, thick sauce.
• 3 tbsp freshly chopped parsley • 175g frozen peas, thawed • 225g large peeled prawns, thawed if frozen
Preheat the oven to 200C, fan 180C, Gas 6. Flake the fish, discarding any skin and bones, and stir into the sauce with the parsley, peas and prawns. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Transfer the mixture to a deep ovenproof dish.
• 15ml olive oil • Sprig of fresh parsley, to garnish
TIP You can use any white fish fillet for this pie - haddock or coley will work just as well. Alternatively, replace half the cod with salmon fillet or smoked haddock, if liked. 74
5
Mash the potatoes with the rest of the butter and milk and season to taste. Spoon the mash over the fish mixture to cover. Drizzle over the olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbling. Serve garnished with a sprig of parsley.
k k
/2016 14:12
75
FREE QUOTES 10 YEAR GUARANTEE HIGHLY SKILLED TEAM 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
t ply & fi s, We sup onservatorie c , es. ing in z fl la o g double orches and ro p doors,
S NOW U L L A C 663
663 01753
We take great pride in every job we undertake and are always professional. No matter what the size of the job we visit the property to get an understanding of what is required. Next we design and develop your products following your specification. Finally we professionally install and test your products to make sure everything is in working order and that you are satisfied with the end result.
3 High Street, Iver, SL0 9ND
www.alpha-windows.com / sales@alpha-windows.com /AlphaWindowsLtd 76