In and Around West Drayton May 14

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West London Monumental & Architectural Stone Masons

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We are pleased to announce the opening of our new showroom in Yiewsley High Street. We are a family run masonry company that has been producing quality memorials and masonry work in the West London area since 1888. We offer a wide range of traditional and contemporary memorial designs and inscriptions for placement both at home and abroad. We also specialise in Renovation and cleaning of Memorials. For centuries the timeless beauty of stones such as Granite, Italian marble, Nabresina have been the esteemed choice for commemorating and marking the last resting place of those departed from this life. All our work comes with a BRAMM 10 year workmanship Guarantee Come in to our showroom and have a chat with our friendlystaff who will be able to advise and guide you through our services and offers.

We have a special offer of A Best Grade Black Granite 2’6 Lawn Memorial with concrete foundation and 100 Gild Gold Leaf or painted letters and optional flower container included for £575.00 (other colours are available in the offer for £675) And Best Grade Full Black Granite memorial 3’OG Headstone with concrete foundation and 100 Gild Gold Leaf or painted letters and soil centre optional flower containers included £1599.00! (other colours are available in the offer for £1749) 117a Yiewsley High Street.Yiewsley.Middlesex.UB7 7QL.Telephone 01895 435558 Email yiewsleysales@kenwardandson.co.ukwww.kenwardandson.co.uk

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History: What happened in May 1979

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Computer Helpdesk

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RSPCA Re Homing Appeal

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We’ve also set up our facebook page, so that we can remind you of events and special offers throughout the month. Please do pop along to our page and give us a Like! As a thank you, one lucky random Liker will win £100 when we reach 400 Likes.

Beer of the Month

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In the meantime, do continue to keep in touch with us, either by telephone, email or facebook and let us know what’s going on where you are. We always do our very best to print your events and local information, and also to share it with other readers via our facebook page.

Reader Travel Offers

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Parks & Local Events

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Coffee Break Puzzles

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Road Test: Mini Cooper

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Motoring: 2014 Mitsubishi ASX

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Beauty: Age Proof Your Hair

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Children’s Puzzle Page

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Interiors: Hotel Style Bathrooms at Home

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Confessions of an armchair archaeologist

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Karen Munro Careers

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Pets Corner

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Garden Feature

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Clubs, Groups & Classes

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Wordsearch

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Puzzle Solutions

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Tel: 01895 835907 Mob: 07759 536494 In and Around Magazines cover: West Drayton . Iver . Denham . Uxbridge Ickenham . Ruislip Angela Fisher 01895 835907 / 07759 536494 info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk      

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We are grateful for the support of local businesses whose adverts appear in this publication and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions, claims made by advertisers or endorse companies, products or services. This publication, its contents and advert designs are © of In and Around Publishing. Any copying or reproduction in part or fully, is strictly forbidden without our prior consent.


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HILLINGDON TORIES PUT 200,000 JOBS AT RISK Hillingdon Tories & Mayor risk residents’ jobs with Heathrow closure plans.

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In recent weeks, Mayor of London Boris Johnson and Hillingdon Council Leader Ray Puddifoot have continued to push their ‘vision’ for a future for Hillingdon without Heathrow Airport. The pair support the closure of Heathrow Airport in favour of Boris’s latest vanity project for an airport in the Thames Estuary that would cost the public over £100bn. The ‘vision’ outlined by the Tories would put up to 200,000 jobs at risk and have a devastating impact on Hillingdon’s economy.

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Hillingdon Labour Party oppose any plans to expand Heathrow. We have consistently opposed expansion of the airport but recognise the vital role the airport plays in our local economy. On the issue of Heathrow expansion, Labour are on the side of Hillingdon residents. We want a better Heathrow, not a bigger Heathrow.

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A Labour run council would cut councillor allowances saving £250,000 for tax payers. We would tackle rogue landlords ensuring better homes for all. We would protect and improve services for the elderly, disabled and most vulnerable. We would work with businesses to create hundreds of jobs and apprenticeships for our young residents. And we would do this all while keeping council tax low to put more money in your pocket, not the pockets of councillors and costly consultants.

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On May 22nd, you can send a message to the Mayor and the Tories. The fringe parties such as the Lib Dems and UKIP cannot win in Hillingdon. Only a vote for Labour can beat the Tories. Promoted by Aidan Bell on behalf of Hillingdon Labour Party both at ! The Labour Hall, Pump Lane, Hayes, UB3 3NB


What happened in... ...May 1979? 8th: At about 1.30 pm a taxi driver on a rank opposite Woolworths in Manchester noticed smoke coming from the store and reported it to his office. By four o’clock the worst fire disaster since WWII had claimed ten lives. Fifty-three people were taken to hospital, including six firemen.

Manchester United’s nil. But just four minutes before the end of the match the score became 2-1; and with two minutes remaining it was 2-2. Just seconds before the full-time whistle the winning goal was scored by Arsenal.

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Margaret Thatcher became Britain’s first woman Prime Minister on 4th May 1979. She was dubbed The Iron Lady by a writer in the Soviet newspaper Red Star. This moniker was meant to be derogatory, but it proved anything but.

The pinnacle of her time in office was when The Iron Lady ordered the Task Force to retake the Falklands after the islands had been invaded by Argentina. She resigned in 1992, having set a record as the longest-serving Prime Minister of the 20th century. 1st: The newest section of the London Underground, the Jubilee Line, was opened, extending from Stanmore to Charing Cross. In 1999 it was further extended, in three stages, crossing the Thames at four points before terminating at Stratford.

Jeremy Thorpe, who had resigned as leader of the Liberal Party three years earlier, went on trial at the Old Bailey, accused of attempted murder. He was also accused, along with four other men, of conspiracy to commit murder. All four defendants were acquitted on 22nd of June that year. 12th: The Cup Final at Wembley had been unremarkable, with Arsenal’s two goals to

Average price of a house was about £13,650 A gallon of petrol was about 85p

Three of the bestselling singles this year were: Bright Eyes - Art Garfunkel Pop Muzik - M Sunday Girl - Blondie

21st: Elton John became the first Western rock star to perform behind the ‘iron curtain’, at a stadium in Leningrad. 24th: Thorpe Park, in Chertsey, Surrey, was opened to the public. It is now the country’s third most popular amusement park, after Alton Towers and Legoland, and boasts the fastest ride. The Stealth reaches 83.9 mph – in just two seconds! 25th: As American Airlines Flight 191 took off from O’Hare International Airport in Chicago its port side engine broke away from the wing. The aircraft rolled to the left and crashed in a field, killing all 271 people on board and two on the ground.

Patrick D Cousins is the author of Rainbows, Dreams and Angels, a double novella set in east London between the Thirties and Sixties. And you can read Patrick Cousins Short Shorts on your Kindle. 


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 We’ve all got used to spam, the daily deluge of emails offering prescription meds, pornography, hot share tips and so much more that even the best filter can’t eradicate entirely. There has always been a more malicious subgenre of spam known as phishing. These emails usually purport to come from your bank or another financial services company and a common ploy is to claim that you have been locked out of your account and need to enter your account details, username and password to reactivate it. While this might seem an extremely unsubtle approach, it is surprising how many people have fallen for it over the years. Tens of millions of pounds have been stolen using this technique. Phishing attacks have fallen off markedly in the last couple of years, for several reasons. Firstly, internet security for bank accounts has greatly improved most banks now offer a security device that generates a unique number every time you log on. Without the device it is virtually impossible to access the account. At the same time, large scale financial criminals have found it easier to steal financial data from overseas call centres. There is now a virtual market in stolen financial information. Internet users have also become much more savvy when it comes to unsolicited emails there are very few people na ve enough to hand over their bank details in response to a badly worded email supposedly from at West Bank these days. Finally, spam filters are certainly not perfect, but they are a lot more effective than they used to be. Only a small proportion of the spam sent out makes it through to people’s inboxes. Ever adaptable, the spammers have changed their line of attack. The aim of most malicious spam these days is not to sell dodgy meds or stocks, or even to con people into giving up sensitive financial data. Instead it is to lodge malicious spyware onto the recipient’s computer. This malware can perform a variety of unpleasant tasks but one of the most common is to take control of the computer so that it becomes part of a botnet. A botnet, short for robot network, is a network of computers that is controlled by a master server via the malware. The botnet can be used to launch Distributed Denial of Service DDoS attacks against the IT servers of large organisations. In such a situation, numerous 

computers connect to a server simultaneously and use up all the bandwidth, meaning legitimate users cannot access the system. DDoS attacks have been launched by national governments against intelligence or commercial targets, by hacker groups such as Anonymous to promote their own agendas and by cyber criminals as straightforward blackmail. This type of malware usually takes control of the host computer’s email server in order to recruit more computers for the botnet. The malware may also spy on the host computer and use keystroke logging software to extract sensitive financial information. To download the malware onto their computer, the email recipient must usually click on a link within the email. As I said, internet users are a lot less na ve than they used to be and the spammers have had to be much more inventive in making the emails appear genuine. obody is going to be fooled by an email from a financial services organisation they don’t even have an account with anymore, so now the emails come from courier companies who couldn’t deliver a parcel, or from HMRC querying your last tax return, or from Companies House regarding a complaint lodged against your business the list goes on. A recent example that has attracted widespread outrage purported to be from the HS. It said that following a recent blood test, the count of white blood cells suggested a high risk of cancer in the recipient and that they should contact their GP via the attached form!! Spammers, they must be among the top ten most despicable groups of people on the planet.


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 are active animals so they need to be able to hop, run, jump, dig, stand fully upright on their back legs, and stretch out fully when lying down.

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If you think you can offer one of these amazingly cute rabbits a happy loving homing then please ring the RSPCA Hillingdon Branch on

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to download an application form. Peanut male 12 weeks right Poppy female 12 weeks middle Penny female 12 weeks left

The RSPCA Hillingdon, Slough, Windsor, Kingston District Branch have a huge number of rabbits being brought into the centre as unwanted Easter presents or because the children have lost interest. Owning and caring for rabbits can be great fun and very rewarding, but it’s a big responsibility and a long term commitment in terms of care and cost. Typically, rabbits live for 8 12 years, but some may live for longer. Rabbits

Peanut, Poppy and Penny are gorgeous little cross breed bunnies. They came to us very small and vulnerable, looking for TLC. They have been given lots of love and attention and have been closely worked with in a foster home, so they are now very friendly and well handled. These beautiful bunnies are looking for a home preferably with another rabbit, or as a pair or a trio. As with all rabbits, they will need a large run and a large hutch where they are able to exercise, stretch and express normal behaviour. Have you got a place in your heart and your home for these friendly siblings



The thing I’ve always liked about the BMW MI I is that, unlike the other retro cars, the ew Beetle and the Fiat 500, you are just as likely to see a man behind the wheel as a woman. This is because the MI I is not just a triumph of style over substance. Both the W and the Fiat are dynamically worse than the mainstream hatchbacks they are based on. The MI I isn’t based on another car, it is a one of a kind, and underneath those cute as a button looks and retro interior lies a well built, well engineered BMW that is fantastic to drive, even if it does fall down on overall practicality. Almost thirteen years after the first new MI I hit the showrooms, the Mk III has arrived. To be honest, the Mk II was just a minor facelift of the Mk I but this is an all new car. Is it a step change improve ment on the previous model, or is it a flabbier, woollier version with some new technology scat tered around the place Well, it is certainly bigger longer, wider and roomier although, through the miracles of BMW engineering, it is slightly lighter than the previous model. In appearance it is very obviously a MI I but there are significant changes from the outgoing model, including reworked rear lights, a crease running the length of the side pan els and some major changes to the front end. The headlights are much bigger than before, the bonnet is longer and there is a more significant front over hang to accommodate improved crash protection. To my eye, the longer bonnet spoils the proportions and I’m not wild about the trout pout front grill, but it certainly hasn’t metamorphosed into an ugly duckling. The interior maintains its retro flourishes but gets some new, very comfortable seats and better qual ity materials. The speedo has been moved to the top of the steering column so you can actually see it and the dinner plate sized dial in the centre of the dash now houses the satnav and ancillary func tions, all of which can now be controlled via BMW’s user friendly iDrive system. However, the back seats are still too cramped and the boot is still  titchy, if a little deeper.

The engine line up has been completely replaced with a pair of 1.5 litre diesels, two triple cylinder turbocharged petrol engines and a 2 litre turbo for the hot hatch Cooper S. The diesel had become the big seller in the last generation Cooper but I think this new 1.5 litre triple could change all that. It produces a healthy 134bhp, enough to punt this little car from 0 62 in 7.9 seconds and onto 131mph. You can rev it till it screams but there’s plenty of torque available from low down in the range and, better still, it is extremely refined and capable of 61mpg on a run. The suspension is another area that is much im proved. The old Cooper was painful on any kind of bumpy road, particularly if fitted with 17 wheels, but this one is smooth and compliant, a dramatic improvement. The handling is even better than before and the MI I retains its sharp turn in, pre cise steering and high levels of grip. It is still easy to keep in line when everything goes pear shaped too in short, it’s a whole lot of fun to drive. I have to say BMW have done a great job with this car. It still has all the things that made the original car such a hit, retro styling, a great driving experi ence, BMW build quality and a reasonable price tag, but every single aspect of it has been im proved, in the case of ride comfort by a consider able margin. Yes, the back seats are only suitable for kids and the boot is tiny, but I doubt if this will put off many potential buyers. Coming to a drive way near you soon!  

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ASX

By James Batchelor Crossovers are fast becoming the default car choice of the masses. Consumers love their commanding driving position and pumped-up looks while it seems manufacturers can’t stop releasing new versions. Pretty much all the mainstream makers now have an SUV in their range and that boom in choice for buyers has also meant those manufacturers that arrived early to the crossover party have been forced to up their games and release refreshed models. Skoda has recently renosed its Yeti, Nissan has worked its magic on the built-inBritain Qashqai and now it’s Mitsubishi’s turn with its ASX. When it first appeared in 2010, the ASX was one of the more niche models in the segment, but even then it managed to chalk up 8,000 sales in its first year. However, a devastatingly high Yen put up the price of imports and buyers ed to rivals. A year later sales had dropped to just 3,000. But Mitsubishi is bouncing back. The exchange rate has moved back in the maker’s favour, prices have dropped and the ASX has had a makeover. Mitsubishi has slashed prices of the ASX by an average of 10 per cent and for 201 it’s been treated to a nip and tuck with plush interior fittings, new suspension tweaks and a 

panoramic glass roof with LED mood lighting on the top-of-therange models. Joining the 1. -litre petrol and 1.8-litre diesel is a 2.2-litre diesel unit poached from the larger Outlander off-roader. The larger diesel develops 1 8bhp and 380 m of torque. Naturally that means more power and shove, but thankfully not at the cost of fuel economy. At 8.7mpg on the combined cycle, the AS 2.2 diesel is more economical than a number of rivals’ 2.0-litre diesel offerings, including the sector’s all-conquering Nissan Qashqai. There’s also a new automatic gearbox thrown into the mix. Some models get a switchable four-wheel drive system. One press of a button on the centre console sends 30 per cent of the car’s power to the rear wheels, while a second prod locks the centre diff and splits power 0 0 front and rear. The ASX’s small dimensions always meant it was good to drive, but road noise was a bit of a let it down. These new 201 models come with improved sound deadening, which has helped a little, and the bouncy ride of previous ASXs has disappeared thanks to retuned suspension. That’s not to say it’s a perfect driving experience though. The steering still lacks crispness, there’s a fair degree of body roll

and the ASX is sadly just not as refined or as comfortable as a Kia Sportage or Skoda Yeti. Mitsubishi has splashed out on upgrading the interior. There are some more up-market plastics, “piano black” materials now adorn the dashboard and the top spec AS gets that aforementioned panoramic glass roof, which makes the cabin wonderfully light and airy. But despite Mitsubishi’s efforts, compared to rivals, the interior still lacks a certain sparkle. That said, with revised pricing, unique styling and an enviable reputation for reliability, the ASX certainly deserves a second look if you’re in the market for a crossover – and if the sales figures are anything to go by, there’s a high chance that’s most of you. The range kicks off at 1 ,999, while the range topping AS 2.2 tested here is 23,899.

The Knowledge Model: Mitsubishi AS 2.2 iW Auto Price: 23,899 Engine: 2.2-litre, fourcylinder turbocharged diesel Power: 1 8bhp, 380 m Max speed: 118mph 0-60mph: 10. s MPG: 8.7mpg Emissions: 1 3g km



Beauty Age-Proof Your Hair

By Helen Taylor Always Be Aware of Your Hair Try to limit extrinsic damage. Lay off the heated styling tools; prevent your hair from being frazzled by the sun by applying a deep conditioner to the lengths and ends when you’re on the beach; and cut right back on products that can dry your hair, like hairsprays.

salon. The opinion of someone who doesn’t already know you and your hair can result in a fantastic new look.

       You’re probably all too aware that you need to look after your skin if you want to stay looking younger for longer – but have you ever thought that you might need to age-proof your hair as well? Hair, like skin, suffers two types of ageing: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic ageing is the effect of everything that your locks are exposed to, like heat-styling, sun damage, and colouring. Intrinsic ageing comes from below the scalp and reveals the signs that your hair is past its prime: reduction in melanin, decline in sebum production, and a change in hair diameter. What that means is that greys start to appear, the shine starts to disappear, and your hair loses its bounce. Hair growth also begins to slow over the years, so it’s harder to achieve the length you loved when you were younger. Ageing a natural process, but there’s plenty you can do to slow it down. 

Reconsider Your Colour Although you might colour your hair to hide greys, choosing the wrong hue can be very ageing. An all-over colour can be hard to wear as you get older. Instead of opting for a block shade, choose a base colour that’s no more than two shades lighter or darker than your natural hue, and add highlights. Not only will your hair look younger, your face will too. Condition, Condition, Condition Smother the lengths and ends of your hair with a rich deepconditioning treatment once or twice a week. Try hair oils and products that are specially formulated for ageing, thinning, or dried-out hair. Try a New Hairstyle It’s easy to get stuck in a rut, but out-of-date, un attering styles really do make you look a lot older than you are. That’s why it’s important to take a fresh look at yourself every so often. Talk to your stylist, or try a new

Any hairdresser worth their salt can advise on what styles work best for thinning or ageing hair, but generally it’s worth considering the following: Length – Long locks look lovely if they’re bouncy, thick, and full of life, but if that’s not the case then they really aren’t worth holding on to. Chopping long hair into a attering, blunt, midi-cut is a quick way to create more youthful-looking hair. Ridding your tresses of dead split-ends improves condition, and a blunt cutting technique will create the look of fullness. Frame Your Face – Try a fringe, or have some soft layers added to the styling around your face. This lifts your features and makes you look younger. A Professional Opinion is Best Although it’s normal for your hair to show signs of change such as thinning over the years, it’s worth seeing your GP if you notice any sudden changes. Hair loss can be caused by hormone deficiencies – low thyroid levels, for example – a deficiency in nutrients, stress, and the side-effects of various medications. So if you’re in doubt, ask your doctor’s advice.


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Home & Interiors Hotel Style Bathrooms at Home

By Katherine Sorrell decide on basic layout issues at the start. Should the WC be in a separate room, for example? Do you need to knock down or add partition walls? Or would you like a walk-in shower, under oor heating or perhaps a pair of his ‘n’ hers basins? Avoid moving existing plumbing, if possible, as it will save money and effort. However, if the oorplan of your current bathroom really isn’t working for you, this one-off plumbing cost could be worth it in the long run.

Flooring

The best hotel bathrooms are blissful escapes from humdrum reality. Superbly planned to make the most of what is often not the hugest of spaces, they offer sleek efficiency at the same time as indulgence and opulence, from cosy-toes under oor heating to tactile taps, monsoon showerheads to gleaming glass. And that’s not even to mention the most attering of lighting schemes, the deepest of deep-fill baths and the uffiest of uffy towels. All this and more is why we find it so pleasurable to stay in a hotel that’s got 

its bathrooms right. And if you hanker for this feeling all the time, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t recreate the same sort of haven in which to relax and refresh at home. Simply take some of the essential elements that we have outlined below, and your boring room can be transformed into a true bathing beauty.

Planning

A well-designed bathroom feels comfortable and convenient no matter how large or small. If you are rethinking your entire room,

Bathroom oors must be non-slip, easy to clean and comfortable underfoot; most importantly, though, they mustn’t mind getting wet. While the upmarket hotel bathroom uses expensive stone or marble tiles, lookalikes made from ceramic or porcelain are a cheaper option. inyl ooring – also much less expensive – comes in a vast range of colours and patterns, some of which replicate natural materials such as ceramic, stone or wood. If you want to go green, think bamboo – which looks similar to timber, but loves humidity; natural rubber – available in gorgeous textures and colours; cork – which now comes in a range of fashionable shades; and linoleum – made from renewable resources. On a tight budget, simply sand timber oorboards and repaint them with glossy, off-white oor paint for a fresh, clean look.


Storage

Great storage is just as important in a bathroom as any other room in the house; sometimes even more so. Where are you going to keep towels, toilet rolls, bottles of cleaning uids, ra ors and a whole host of other (mostly unsightly) things? Fitted storage, either from a bathroom supplier or made for you by a joiner is ideal if you can afford it (though of course you can’t take it with you if you plan to move house). Alternatively, there are plenty of less expensive options. A wooden chest or blanket box, for example, could double as both a seat and towel store, while a wall-mounted shelf could be the perfect place to stack lotions and potions. In a large bathroom, a chest of drawers keeps all your bits and bobs in one place, while in a small room a metal rack

on wheels combines both function and style.

Lighting

Give your bathroom a boost with a new lighting scheme. Always use fittings designed for wet and steamy conditions, and combine task lights (for shaving and putting on make-up) with general background light. Downlights set into the ceiling are a great start, or else ceiling tracks with directional spotlights, which are inexpensive to fit. If you’re renovating the whole bathroom, it may be possible to install two lighting circuits: one for working lights and the other, on a dimmer switch, for soothing, ambient lights. Alternatively, set the mood for a long, relaxing bath with the warm glow of candlelight.

Accessories and extras

uick fixes for tired bathrooms include changing

a dated pair of taps for some good-looking, modern ones, installing a glass shower screen to replace a appy old curtain or jazzing up your windows with some decorative window film. Add a large mirror – it’s not only useful but also helps to increase the feeling of light and space in the room, and can become a focal point. Small storage items, such as wicker baskets, pretty ceramics or bright plastic tubs, bring texture, colour and interest. Last – but definitely not least – consider buying a new set of coordinating towels. The uffier the better and, of course, in clean, bright hotel-white. House by John Lewis Mode short shelf, £30, box shelf £40; House by John Lewis bamboo threetier bathroom shelf, £80, bath linen, from £1.50, pedestal mirror, £15, Bobble bathmat, £15; gloss single mirrored bathroom cabinet, £50; Lascelles Swiss clock, £40, all John Lewis, 08456 049 049; www.johnlewis.com.


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In and Around Reader Travel Free Drinks

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Tuscany Coast & Country Explorer

Escorted Holiday by Rail 8 DAYS FROM SEMI-ALL-INCLUSIVE

£899PP

20 September, 2014 - Quote TR9-IA Come with us to incomparable Tuscany. The Tuscan seaside town of Forte dei Marmi has been described as the region’s Beverly Hills and here we enjoy free drinks every night at our hotel. We will visit Lucca,

Grand Danube 4-star River Cruise Escorted Fly Cruise 9 DAYS

FROM

£1099PP

27 Jul, 17 Aug & 5 Oct, 2014 - Quote DC-IA Join us for a majestic cruise on the famous Blue Danube. With a tremendous variety of scenery, historic cities, romantic towns, superb architecture

Ports of call include magnificent Vienna and Budapest with overnight stops.

to visit Portofino.

INCLUDED: Escorted throughout abroad

near Nice & 6 nights in Italy with 6 buffet breakfasts,

• Return flights with luggage to Munich from Heathrow & Gatwick - supplement may apply • Overnight hotel B&B in Germany • 7-night full

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board cruise on the MS Serenity sharing a standard

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6 dinners & Free Drinks from 6pm to 10pm every

en-suite, outside twin cabin - upgrades available

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night • Excursions & transfers abroad

• Entertainment • Transfers Munich-Passau-Munich

Call 01895 83 33 33 GN Voyages GN Holidays, Higher Denham Uxbridge UB9 5EL



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and cultural jewels, Europe’s second longest river

stunning Cinque Terra. There is also the opportunity

from London St Pancras • 1 night hotel B&B in or

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offers an incomparable river cruising experience.

Pisa, Florence and Portovenere - with access to

INCLUDED: Escorted throughout • Return rail travel

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Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays. www. gnvoyages.co.uk • Email: info@gnvoyages.co.uk

ABTA No. Y0291

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Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough

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Blenheim Palace Flower Show & Lunch

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Friday 20 June, 2014 - Quote BP6-IA

A Very High Tea!! Spinnaker Tower & Portsmouth Harbour Cruise GREAT DAY OUT

£59PP

Thursday 3 July, 2014 - Quote SG7-IA

INCLUDED: Entry to Blenheim Palace Flower Show,

INCLUDED: Entry to Spinnaker Tower with High Tea in the

including house and grounds • 2-course lunch at The

Café in the Clouds • Free time in Gunwharf Quays • 45-

Windmill, Burford • Return coach travel

minute Portsmouth Harbour cruise • Return coach travel

Highgrove - Prince of Wales Private Garden & Lunch

Glorious Goodwood Ladies Day

GREAT DAY OUT

£89PP

GREAT DAY OUT

£79PP

Friday 4 July, 2013 - Quote HG7-IA

Thursday 31 July, 2014 - Quote GO7-IA

INCLUDED: 2-hour guided tour of Prince Charles’ gardens

INCLUDED: Entry to Goodwood’s Lennox Enclosure •

at Highgrove including the wild flower meadow • 2-course

Bucks Fizz Brunch at a country pub - glass of Bucks Fizz, full

lunch at the Hare & Hounds Hotel • Return coach travel

English breakfast, tea or coffee • Return coach Travel

Tall Ships Festival at Greenwich with 2-course Lunch GREAT DAY OUT

Paddlesteamer PS Waverley Isle of Wight Cruise

£69PP

GREAT DAY OUT

Saturday 6 September, 2014 - Quote TS9-IA

£89PP

Friday 19 September, 2014 - Quote PS9-IA

INCLUDED: Visit to Tall Ships Festival at Greenwich with

INCLUDED: PS Waverley Cruise from Portsmouth to

time to explore • 2-course lunch in central London

Yarmouth or The Needles • Option to have some free time

• Return coach travel

in Yarmouth • Return coach travel

Call 01895 83 33 33 GN Holidays, Higher Denham Uxbridge UB9 5EL

Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays. www. gnholidays.com • Email: info@gnholidays.com

ABTA No. Y0291

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Local Parks & Events (May14)_Layout 1 19/04/2014 08:57 Page 1

In andAround Reader Travel     may park EvEnts

PAT Dogs Walk Mon 5th May, 10am-1pm Black Park Car Park Raise sponsorship for PAT Dogs Join the sponsored 3 mile walk to raise money for the “pets as therapy” charity. Contact the event organiser on 01753 531584 for a walk joining pack.

Free Drinks

Mini-Beast Hunt Wed 28th May, 1pm-2pm or 3pm-4pm Black Park Visitor Centre £4.50 per kit Hunt for creepy crawlies in Black park with the help of our rangers, using your mini-beast kit. Book an hour long slot and meet us at the visitor Centre.

 

Film Walk Thurs 29th May, 2pm-3pm Langley Park Café £5 adult; £3 child; £4 cons; £14 family a great chance to see some of the locations in Langley park that have been featured in popular films and view screen shots from the productions.

Vestry Teas Sun 11th May, 2-5pm St Mary's Church, Denham Village Funds raised in aid of Denham village Infant school. all welcome.

Illustrated Talk Wed 14th May, 1.45pm Winston Churchill Hall, Ruislip Hillingdon DFas invite you to hear an illustrated talk on the life and work of Jacob Epstein. next talk will be in June on ‘masterpieces of medieval Westminster’. tel. 01895 239100, or text 07905 349139 for further details.

    

Local Park & Events

5k Cross Country Wed 14th May, 7pm start Langley Park £5.50 (members); £7.50 (non-club) On day entry +£2 First in the three-part race series. the course is one lap of scenic parkland. parking included. visit www.fabian4.co.uk for full details AYS and registration.

Tuscany Coast & Country Explorer

Escorted Holiday by Rail 8D

SEMI-ALL-INCLUSIVE

FROM

£899PP

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Grand Danube 4-star River Cruise Escorted Fly Cruise 9 DAYS

FROM

£1099PP

Bird Watching for Beginners Film Walk Wed 21st May, 10am-12pm Charity Craft Fair & FamilyDC-IA Fun Day 20 September, 2014 Quote TR9-IA 27 Jul, 17 Aug & 5 Oct, 2014 - Quote Langley Park Café Sat 17th May, 11am-4pm XC Bike Racing £4.50 adult; £2.50 child; Iver Village Hall Youth & Novice cons; £12 family Join us for a majestic Craft cruise oncharity the famous Come with us to £3.50 incomparable Tuscany. The Tuscan stalls, stalls, faceBlue Sat 31st May, 1pm start a great chance to learn about the painting and much more! Danube. With a tremendous variety of scenery, Black Park Car Park varietydei of birds thathas live been here. Don’t seaside town of Forte Marmi described From £5 forget your binoculars! historic cities, romantic towns, superb architecture North London Military Wives Choir First in a weekend of racing hosted as the region’s Beverly Hills and here we enjoy free with Leslie Phillips & Guests by West Drayton Club. Europe’s and mountain culturalBike jewels, second longest river Sat 17th May, 2pm For full details please visit the drinks every night at our hotel. We will visit Lucca, Gerrards Cross Memorial Hall, offers an incomparable river cruising experience. website www.blackparkraces.co.uk. 8 East Common, Pisa, Florence and Portovenere - with access to Ports of call includeGerrards magnificent Vienna and Cross, SL9 7AD

stunning Cinque Terra. There is also the opportunity

l

Budapest with overnight stops.

Call 01895 83 33 33 GN Voyages

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may EvEnts

Meditation Taster Class INCLUDED: Escorted throughout abroad to visit Portofino. Sun 4th May, 5.30pm-7pm Ickenham Village Hall flights with luggage to Munich from • Return INCLUDED: Escorted throughout • Return rail travel Increasing your self-esteem - a lightHeathrow & Gatwick - supplement may apply from London St Pancras • 1 night hotel B&B in or hearted spiritual talk with guided meditation, •open to everyone Overnight hotel B&B in Germany • 7-night full Bushcraft Walk wanting to deepen their meditation near Nice & 6 nights in Italy with 6 buffet breakfasts, Leslie Phillips cruiseclasses, on the MS Serenity sharing a standard experiences.board Free monthly Bushcraft Walk - 020 8574 3699 or 6 dinners & Free Drinks from 6pm to 10pm every booking required en-suite, outside twin cabin upgrades available Mon 26th May, 2pm-5.30pm 020 8578 8625. a wonderful afternoon with music Pine’s Camp Organised by the Brahma kumaris • Entertainment • Transfers Munich-Passau-Munich night • ExcursionsBlack & transfers abroad and smiles. tickets £15 per guest £22 adult; £17 child www.brahmakumaris.org/uk including afternoon tea and cakes Join andy on an interactive walk to presented on behalf of the B600 learn the secrets of the forest and Race Night Foundation call 01923 264119 or uses for natural materials. Finish at Fri 9th May 07779 299531 Black pine’s Camp to put your new Harefield Infant School ABTA No. Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays. GN Holidays, knowledge Higher Denham into practice. max ratio of For ticket information please visit Y0291 gnvoyages.co.uk • Email: info@gnvoyages.co.uk Uxbridge UB9 to 5EL 1 adult 2 children. Over www. 12s only. continued... www.facebook.com/HarefieldFriends

may into June

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Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough A Very High Tea!! Spinnaker Tower & Portsmouth Harbour Cruise

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  G G £79 D O  £59 D O    REAT AY UT

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PP

Friday 20 June, 2014 - Quote BP6-IA

PP

Thursday 3 July, 2014 - Quote SG7-IA

INCLUDED: Entry to Blenheim Palace Flower Show,

INCLUDED: Entry to Spinnaker Tower with High Tea in the

including house and grounds • 2-course lunch at The

Café in the Clouds • Free time in Gunwharf Quays • 45-

Windmill, Burford • Return coach travel

minute Portsmouth Harbour cruise • Return coach travel

Highgrove - Prince of Wales Private Garden & Lunch

Glorious Goodwood Ladies Day

GREAT DAY OUT

£89PP

GREAT DAY OUT

£79PP

Friday 4 July, 2013 - Quote HG7-IA

Thursday 31 July, 2014 - Quote GO7-IA

INCLUDED: 2-hour guided tour of Prince Charles’ gardens

INCLUDED: Entry to Goodwood’s Lennox Enclosure •

at Highgrove including the wild flower meadow • 2-course

Bucks Fizz Brunch at a country pub - glass of Bucks Fizz, full

lunch at the Hare & Hounds Hotel • Return coach travel

English breakfast, tea or coffee • Return coach Travel

Tall Ships Festival at Greenwich with 2-course Lunch GREAT DAY OUT

Paddlesteamer PS Waverley Isle of Wight Cruise

£69PP

GREAT DAY OUT

Saturday 6 September, 2014 - Quote TS9-IA

£89PP

Friday 19 September, 2014 - Quote PS9-IA

INCLUDED: Visit to Tall Ships Festival at Greenwich with

INCLUDED: PS Waverley Cruise from Portsmouth to

time to explore • 2-course lunch in central London

Yarmouth or The Needles • Option to have some free time

• Return coach travel

in Yarmouth • Return coach travel

Call 01895 83 33 33 GN Holidays, Higher Denham Uxbridge UB9 5EL

Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays. www. gnholidays.com • Email: info@gnholidays.com

ABTA No. Y0291

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Local Parks & Events (May14)_Layout 1 19/04/2014 08:57 Page 2

may EvEnts continued

Bike Club. For full details please visit www.blackparkraces.co.uk.

       

Uxbridge Choral Society Spring Concert Sat 17th May, 7.30pm St. Anselm's Church, Station Road, Hayes, UB3 4DF Puccini 'Messe di Gloria' and Rutter 'Feel the Spirit'. Conductor: Jeff stewart. tickets: £12 and children under 12 £6, on the door or by calling 01895 847083.

Local Park & Events may into June continued  

Ruislip Central Horticultural Society Tues 20th May We are proud to present Bob Flowerdew (from BBC Gardeners Question time) giving a talk on ‘no Work Gardening!’ for more info on this or any of our events and tickets please call Warren Reeves 01923 451616 rchstalks@gmail.com new members are most welcome. Denham Village Fayre Mon 26th May, 10am-4pm Village Road, Denham Village Fairground attractions, Bee Keepers, Classic Cars, morris men Plants, Books, toys, Games and many stalls and refreshments.

Art in the Churchyard Mon 26th May, 10am-4pm Denham Fayre, Denham Village all paintings originals by local artists, they are all for sale so you can buy what you see Oil – Watercolour – Pastel. Come and browse our gallery (inside the church if the weather is poor).

JunE PaRK EvEnts XC Mountain Bike Racing Sun 1st June, 10am start Black Park From £10 Part two of the weekend’s racing hosted by West Drayton mountain

Open Farm Sunday Sun 8th June, 10.30am-5pm Rowley Farm Free event see the animals on Rowley Farm and learn where your food and milk comes from. there will be guided tours, tractor rides and games too. Park in Black Park Car Park and follow the signs. 5k Cross Country Wed 11th June, 7pm start Langley Park £5.50 (members); £7.50 (non-club) On day entry +£2 second in the three-part race series. the course is one lap of scenic parkland. Parking included. visit www.fabian4.co.uk for full details and registration. Lea Barn Equestrian Sun 22nd June, 10am-4pm Langley Park, Free event Walk down through Langley Park to George Green Field and watch the horses in action. For more information, visit www.leabarnequestrian.co.uk Bushcraft & Survival Day Sun 22nd June, 10am-4pm Black Pine’s Camp, £65 Join Ranger andy to learn bushcraft and survival skills in the inspiring surroundings of Black Park. With a relaxed and friendly approach, resident bushcraft and survival expert andy, will share his knowledge and skills. you will leave with a fresh outlook and new understanding of the world around you. you’ll enjoy a day of practical skills, exploring your potential and enhancing your ability to deal with the unexpected.

Film Walk Sun 29th June, 2pm-3.45pm Black Park Visitor Centre £5 adult; £3 child; £4 cons; £14 family Black Park has played host to a great number of major film, television and music productions over the years,

including Harry Potter and James Bond. Join us for a walk around Black Park to look at some of the popular locations and see screen shots from the productions.

JunE EvEnts School Summer Fete Sat 7th June, 1pm-4pm Iver Heath Junior, St Margarets Close, Iver Heath SL0 0DA Come and have some fun! 1940's Afternoon Tea Party Sat 7th June, 2pm-4pm Ickenham Village Hall With music from that period tickets. £5 from flowline Hairdressers. Butterflies supporting local childrens charities. ‘A Girls' Night Out’ author event Mon 9th June, 7.30pm-10pm Compass Theatre, Ickenham Featuring best selling female authors: Lisa Jewell, Jenny Colgan, Rowan Coleman and alex marwood. Doors open at 6:30pm. tickets: £7 includes free paperback book. available from Ickenham Library. My Writing Life Thurs 12th June, 7pm-8pm Ickenham Library Free event. an evening with local author Jason Rohan. ticket required please collect from Ickenham Library. Family Fun Day Sat 21st June, 12-5pm St Marks Hall, Greentiles Lane, Denham Green, UB9 5HT Come join us for stalls, games, music, bbq etc. all proceed to go to Cancer Research. For more info or if you would be interested in having a stall, please call nicky on 07944 458147. Summer Fayre Sat 28th June, 12-3pm. Denham Village Infant School Bouncy Castle, Grand Raffle, Giant tombola. arts & Crafts stalls, refreshments with home made cakes. and lots more entrance by Donation.

Film Walk


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Home & Interiors Hotel Style Bathrooms at Home

By Katherine Sorrell decide on basic layout issues at the start. Should the WC be in a separate room, for example? Do you need to knock down or add partition walls? Or would you like a walk-in shower, under oor heating or perhaps a pair of his ‘n’ hers basins? Avoid moving existing plumbing, if possible, as it will save money and effort. However, if the oorplan of your current bathroom really isn’t working for you, this one-off plumbing cost could be worth it in the long run.

             

Flooring

The best hotel bathrooms are blissful escapes from humdrum reality. Superbly planned to make the most of what is often not the hugest of spaces, they offer sleek efficiency at the same time as indulgence and opulence, from cosy-toes under oor heating to tactile taps, monsoon showerheads to gleaming glass. And that’s not even to mention the most attering of lighting schemes, the deepest of deep-fill baths and the uffiest of uffy towels. All this and more is why we find it so pleasurable to stay in a hotel that’s got 

its bathrooms right. And if you hanker for this feeling all the time, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t recreate the same sort of haven in which to relax and refresh at home. Simply take some of the essential elements that we have outlined below, and your boring room can be transformed into a true bathing beauty.

Planning

A well-designed bathroom feels comfortable and convenient no matter how large or small. If you are rethinking your entire room,



Bathroom oors must be non-slip, easy to clean and comfortable underfoot; most importantly, though, they mustn’t mind getting wet. While the upmarket hotel bathroom uses expensive stone or marble tiles, lookalikes made from ceramic or porcelain are a cheaper option. inyl ooring – also much less expensive – comes in a vast range of colours and patterns, some of which replicate natural materials such as ceramic, stone or wood. If you want to go green, think bamboo – which looks similar to timber, but loves humidity; natural rubber – available in gorgeous textures and colours; cork – which now comes in a range of fashionable shades; and linoleum – made from renewable resources. On a tight budget, simply sand timber oorboards and repaint them with glossy, off-white oor paint for a fresh, clean look.


Storage

Great storage is just as important in a bathroom as any other room in the house; sometimes even more so. Where are you going to keep towels, toilet rolls, bottles of cleaning uids, ra ors and a whole host of other (mostly unsightly) things? Fitted storage, either from a bathroom supplier or made for you by a joiner is ideal if you can afford it (though of course you can’t take it with you if you plan to move house). Alternatively, there are plenty of less expensive options. A wooden chest or blanket box, for example, could double as both a seat and towel store, while a wall-mounted shelf could be the perfect place to stack lotions and potions. In a large bathroom, a chest of drawers keeps all your bits and bobs in one place, while in a small room a metal rack

on wheels combines both function and style.

Lighting

Give your bathroom a boost with a new lighting scheme. Always use fittings designed for wet and steamy conditions, and combine task lights (for shaving and putting on make-up) with general background light. Downlights set into the ceiling are a great start, or else ceiling tracks with directional spotlights, which are inexpensive to fit. If you’re renovating the whole bathroom, it may be possible to install two lighting circuits: one for working lights and the other, on a dimmer switch, for soothing, ambient lights. Alternatively, set the mood for a long, relaxing bath with the warm glow of candlelight.

              Accessories and extras

uick fixes for tired bathrooms include changing

a dated pair of taps for some good-looking, modern ones, installing a glass shower screen to replace a appy old curtain or jazzing up your windows with some decorative window film. Add a large mirror – it’s not only useful but also helps to increase the feeling of light and space in the room, and can become a focal point. Small storage items, such as wicker baskets, pretty ceramics or bright plastic tubs, bring texture, colour and interest. Last – but definitely not least – consider buying a new set of coordinating towels. The uffier the better and, of course, in clean, bright hotel-white.



House by John Lewis Mode short shelf, £30, box shelf £40; House by John Lewis bamboo threetier bathroom shelf, £80, bath linen, from £1.50, pedestal mirror, £15, Bobble bathmat, £15; gloss single mirrored bathroom cabinet, £50; Lascelles Swiss clock, £40, all John Lewis, 08456 049 049; www.johnlewis.com.


     Life Begins        Confessions    of an armchair    archaelogist by Kate McLelland For many years, archaeology has been a passion of mine. Not actually doing it, you understand, but viewing endless TV documentaries on ancient Egypt and Rome and obsessively following various series of “Time Team”. Last year I moved to the countryside and decided to turn my interest into a hobby. I fantasised about standing in the middle of a field, with muddy knees and earth-caked hands, having just discovered a stunning mosaic oor. Without doubt I had the enthusiasm to be an amateur archaeologist, but how could I get involved? When I discovered that our local archaeological group was about to meet, I was determined to go. Unfortunately the day of the meeting was damp, cold and windy: as I trudged along I found myself looking forward to taking my seat in a warm, dry church hall. This reaction to a bit of rain made me wonder if I would be feeling so enthusiastic if, instead of a aiming for a brightly lit hall, I was heading off to spend long hours in a muddy field Once inside the hall, I sat and listened to a members of the group speak eloquently about 

their particular archaeological passions. Each talk was accompanied by a carefully prepared laptop presentation, with photographs, maps and information. There was even a quiz on local historical sites: my dismal score reminded me why I had come to the meeting in the first place. When the presentations ended I was eager to find out more about the society. I was told that sessions mostly comprised of talks by interesting guest speakers, but for more active members there would be a chance to go on field walks, which take place in the winter when vegetation has died back. With farmers’ permission, walkers examine the earth for signs of pottery, ints and other finds. Apparently there is quite a good success rate for these random discoveries, provided the group knows where to look. By law all finds belong to the owner of the land on which the field walk takes place and an official agreement between landowner and searcher is often put in place to determine who keeps the items that are found. It is recommended that all finds be recorded with the Portable Antiquities Scheme

www.finds.org.uk . The scheme encourages finders to record their discoveries with a local Finds Liaison Officer, who will enter the items onto a database for researchers to study and the public to view. Unfortunately, opportunities to get involved with digs taking place on established archaeological sites are extremely limited, although some of the larger societies do manage to get some hands-on experience. Sites must be overseen by qualified, professional archaeologists to ensure that all finds are properly investigated, recorded and preserved, so the chances for enthusiastic amateurs like me to get involved will always be limited. As I sat in the hall at the end of the meeting, finishing a cup of tea and chatting to a large group of enthusiastic, knowledgeable people, I felt that was among old friends. It occurred to me that there was enjoyment to be had in simply listening to people who are passionate about their subject. Call me an armchair archaeologist, but there’s a lot to be said for hearing about other people’s discoveries, particularly when it’s cold and rainy outside!



Karen Munro Careers (May14)_Layout 1 18/04/2014 22:42 Page 1

Karen Munro - Career Coach www.munrocareers.co.uk / Twitter - @munrocareers / Facebook - munro careers Karen is a professional Career Coach providing individual support in all aspects of employment including effective CV writing, interview skills training, networking and successful job searching. A member of the Career Development Institute and Careers Professional Alliance, a qualified Careers Practitioner and Trainer, she works with both private and business clients around Hillingdon, South Bucks and Middlesex. Karen is currently facilitating workshops and offering individual coaching to Military Personnel leaving the Armed Forces at RAF Northolt, helping them through their transition to civilian work. Karen writes for a number of careers focussed and military resettlement magazines and regularly contributes to ‘In and Around’ sharing her practical experience with her local community. BReAKINg the ‘age barrier’ in the employment market can be daunting for people over a certain age. So what can you do about it? Firstly, if you are worried employers may discriminate against you due to your age, don’t give them reason to. Don’t put your age or your date of birth on your CV. It is not best practice to have personal information on a CV and an employer does not need to know when you were born. Their primary focus is to find out if you have the right skills and experience to do the job better than any of the other applicants. Only go back around 10-12 years on your CV starting with you most recent. Keep it relevant too. Going back to jobs you did after you left school will not only highlight your age, but will not be relevant to your most recent experience or what you are applying for now. There is also no need to put the year you went to School, College or University. Employers will not be interested in your pre-GCSE qualifications such as O levels or CSE’s and this will only highlight your age further. If the job description says GCSE English is a requirement, you can put ‘educated to GCSE standards, including English’ instead. or you could look at re-training. Getting a qualification will help you to prove your skills to an employer and shows you have the right skills 

      

for the job. It will also show you are being pro-active by keeping your skills up-to-date and you are willing to learn new things, demonstrating you have the right attitude for the job. Government-funded online courses lead to nationally recognised qualifications in Maths, English and IT skills. If you want to go on courses but are worried about the cost, have a look at the Government 24+ loans. Visit www.learndirect. com for further details. Remember, it really doesn’t matter how old you are, because there’s never been a better time to learn!

The key thing to remember is that, with age comes experience and this is something that sets you apart from other jobseekers. Try to be even more proactive in understanding a potential employer’s needs and show off your skills. Identify what they’re really asking you and remove any hint of concern. Your best approach to finding opportunities may be through networking. Contact friends, friends of friends, family, contacts you have from previous jobs, social or community groups. Ask them to let you know if they hear of any positions. Working on a voluntary basis is a fantastic way to meet new people, network and find paid employment. Opportunities to ‘shadow’ people at

work in your desired sector for a day or two could be ideal. Make the same suggestion direct to employers.

During your ‘shadowing’, ask which jobs in their organisations (and outside it) need people with the kind of experience you bring and in the specific areas you hope to work in. Finally, be aware Age Discrimination is now recognised through legislation, so employers are no longer able to recruit people using age as a deciding factor. If you feel a company has discriminated against you due to your age, you are within your rights to contest it. However, ask yourself this; do you want to work for a company that discriminates candidates due to their age? Take it as a gift that you found out before hand as who would want to work for a company with those values! Move onwards and upwards and find an age-friendly company that you really want to work for and who really values you for what you can do and not your age.

“Age is only a barrier – if you let it become one.”

Karen

Anon

“unlocking your career potential”



Pets Corner... (May14)_Layout 1 19/04/2014 05:45 Page 1

Common Things... One of the most valuable pieces of advice that I’ve ever been given was from an old vet who said, “Just remember Martin, before you go looking for complicated solutions to unlikely problems, that common

extremely rare we may forget that piece of advice that my old vet gave me, and not deal with problems which are constant, like regular flea and worm control, feeding a correct diet, having regular vaccinations and looking after your pets’ teeth – there’s a 90% chance your pet has some form of dental disease and you don’t know about it.

    

things occur commonly”. This could apply to some of the headline problems that have apparently been befalling our pets recently. Of course, if we believed everything in the news the end of the world is nigh but, scare stories sell news, things occurring commonly is boring. So, looking at Seasonal Canine Illness (SCI) - if you believed the hype - you would only have to take your dog for a walk in the woods and it would instantly contract fatal gastro-enteritis. That’s bad enough but now there’s Alabama Rot. This dramatic sounding disease is apparently once again caught mysteriously from walking the dog in the woods and ends in extremities falling off and the dog dying of kidney failure. The cause of both of these conditions is unknown, so a means of prevention or specific treatment is equally impossible to state. One recent headline condition we do know about is TB. Again the scaremongers will have you believe that your cat (or dog) is going to pick up TB from rats, mice, badgers or whatever, and pass it on to you and your family with dire consequences. TB is difficult to diagnose in cats and dogs although we know what it is and when we find it an we can treat it. However, the one thing in common with all these conditions is that they are not common, indeed they are so rare that I’ve never seen a case of any of them in 38 years as a vet. So, there is no need to worry about walking your dogs in the woods or taking specific precaution provided you take your dog to the vet if it cuts itself on a walk or shows signs of illness afterwards. SCI and Alabama Rot are so unlikely that they’re not worth thinking about. TB is a real world problem and clusters of this disease in cats do occur albeit very, very rarely. However, the point of all this is that by focusing on the 

Finally, a shameless promotion of my book which has just been published - ‘A Test of Patients’. It is an irreverent take on veterinary practice with some of my experiences, anecdotes, musings and few oddball patients, quirkily illustrated by one of my daughters. It is £8 and all profit goes to charity. It is available from the clinic, ordering by email to stmartinsvet@gconnect.com or on Kindle.

M C Atkinson BVSc MRCVs www.stmartinsvetclinic.com


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Water, Water, Everywhere by Pippa Greenwood

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A water-feature adds magic to any garden. The sound of tinkling water and the movement of light on its surface can be just the finishing touch you need either for a patio or for a much larger garden. There’s a plentiful choice of water-features of all shapes, styles, and sizes; but before you commit yourself, what are the main points to bear in mind? First, position. For moving water, your feature will use an electric pump, so there has to be a power-point nearby – something often overlooked. Do you want an eye-catching centrepiece for a formal garden, or just the music of running water as the soundtrack to your alfresco Sunday lunch? In either case, you need to consider carefully the appropriate position. Water-features can turn bright green in summer due to the build-up of algae. You can go a long way towards preventing this by positioning them away from direct sunlight. Make sure they’re well away from deciduous trees, too, as falling leaves will clog everything up. For smaller spaces you’re best off with a self-contained feature. There are lots of lovely ones available such as terracotta or glazed pot stacks with the water continuously 

pumped from one container to another, so you’ll only need to top it up in the hottest weather.

Spouts and fountains are great fun. A spitting fish, frog, or gargoyle adds a touch of art – or humour – while oxygenating a pool, reducing algae and keeping the pond-life happy. If you want moving water but perhaps have toddlers, a millstone with a low, centrallypositioned jet is both beautiful and safe. Plants are integral to any pond. Surface- oating plants such as waterlilies not only look gorgeous but their leaves also shade the water – again, reducing algae. Waterlilies need still water, so are best avoided if you have a fountain; but a single spitting feature at one end of the pool shouldn’t create too much turbulence.

Plants around the edges of a pools and ponds are called marginals and do best in shallower water or boggy ground. Use plenty: they look gorgeous, they hide the liner and they’re a haven for wildlife. Marginals to consider include yellow- owered marsh marigold (caltha palustris); white- owered bog arum calla palustris); miniature reed-mace (typha minima); pale blue water forget-me-not (myosotis scorpioides); and purplebloomed water and bog iris

(eg iris laevigata). You’ll need about two plants per metre. For a more formal look choose shapely rushes or ferns. Water-features attract wildlife, and in summer you might be visited by dragon ies or may ies. Birds may also come to drink and bathe. And even a small pond needs a safe exit-route in case hedgehogs pop by for a drink and tumbles in. A shallow beach of pebbles should do the trick. If your feature has a sizeable surface, net it in the autumn to catch falling leaves. Garden netting stretched taut is ideal. Remove it as necessary to tip off the leaves. Left in the water they’ll both clog the pumps and produce methane, which is toxic. In winter, don’t let the waterfeature freeze up. If extreme cold is forecast smaller features are best emptied, and the pump cleaned and stored in the shed. Fish need an ice-free area on the surface or they’ll be killed by methane building up under the ice. Floating a football on the surface helps. Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ for the AskPippa Q&A service, Nemaslug, natural pest controls and lots more besides!



WD What's On... (Apr14)_Layout 1 21/03/2014 15:04 Page 2

 keep-fit, dance & drama continued... irish dancing classes For boys and girls from age 5 upwards. Beginners and advanced classes available. Monday, 6pm at Hayes Conservative Club, Church Rd Wednesday, 6pm at Greenford Visitation Catholic church hall Contact Deidre e: Deirdreosullivan@ hotmail.co.uk t: 07956 346383 Ladies only kickboxing club Wednesdays, 6.30-8.00pm at Watts Hall, Redford Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1SZ. First Class FREE! Just turn up or call Instructor Leanne Phillips on 07518 848285 e: leanne @kickboxing-longdon.co.uk www.kickboxing-london.co.uk Linedance for improvers Tuesdays 12-2pm Royal British Legion, Station Road, West Drayton. Call Instructor Ann 0791 435 8050 Line dancing Thurs 12-2pm. St Martins Church Hall, Church Road, West Drayton. Call Susan 01895 832837 susanwynne376@gmail.com Linedancing Tuesday evenings 7.30-10.30pm. Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Call Ann on 0791 435 8050 modern Jive classes Mondays, 8-11pm, West Drayton Community Centre Thursdays, 8-11pm, Uxbridge Civic Centre. Beginners welcome, first night entry and free lifetime membership with this advert. Contact: Alan 0208 933 4350 or 07860 250961 or email: alanandsue@clubceroc.com. nordic Walking & Wellbeing Explore our borough’s green spaces . with all round exercise in the open air 4 wk courses various days and locations pre-booking essential contact 07771 872 592 / learningmoves@hotmailco.uk

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        

pilates, movement and matwork Tuesdays 7.45-8.45pm, Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Penny 01895 420409 or 07771 872 592 / learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk

pinewood fitness The Fitness Room, Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, Sl0 0NH Mon 20.00-21.00, Wed 19.30-20.30 Booking only. Various Fitness Circuits, Boxercise, Gym Work £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, www.tauruspt.co.uk 07906 087749 tai chi classes Every Saturday 10-11am at Yiewsley Methodist Church, Fairfield Road, UB7 8EY. Call Dan on 07880 601429 to book. 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. Yoga for all Wednesday 7.30-9.00pm Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Priya 01895 440712

11.30am-12.30pm @ 26 West Drayton Park Ave, UB7 £35 for a 5 week course, £8 drop in, free trial class, concessions available slough sea cadets Parade nights on Mon and Thu 19.30-21.30 at Langley Pavillion, Langley Road, Slough, SL3 8BS. Male & Female Junior Cadets (age 10-12yrs) & Cadets (age 1218yrs). Fees £2 per week, courses from £5 for a weekend. Email: sloughseacadets@yahoo.co.uk 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. Call Deb 07986 050742 www.faradaycountry.co.uk guitar lessons Complete beginners welcome. Contact Sam for a FREE lesson 07798 588496 sam@uxbridgeguitarlessons.co.uk

Zumba Mon 6-7pm at Walter Pomeroy Hall, Royal Lane, Hillingdon UB8 3QU. For details call Ann-Marie 07701 012927 or email zumbathatbody@gmail.com or Facebook zumbathatbody

Yiewsley & West drayton Band Rehearse every Wednesday and Friday 8-10pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. To join or book the band for an engagement contact Lynne on 07976 824152 or email Lynne@ywdband.com

Zumba fitness class Weds 8-9pm at Langley Grammar School Sport Centre Reddington Drive Langley, SL3 8LL. Thurs 7-8pm at Yiewsley / West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Rd, West Drayton. UB7 9JL. Call Gabriel 07735090325 or email gabrielzumba@instructor.net www.gabriel84.zumba.com

Yiewsley & West drayton training Band This is open to all ages wanting to learn to play a brass instrument or those of you wanting to 'brush up' your skills. Rehearse every Wednesday during term time 6.457.45pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. Contact Abi on 07985 302 856 or emailtraining@ywdband.com

pre-schooL & kids groups...

pets...

hart Baby Yoga For class details www.zoehart.co.uk Stage 1 (3-6 months) 10.30am-11.30am Stage 2 (6-12 months)

iver dog training club Every Tue and Fri 6.30pm-9.00pm at St Andrews Church, Richings Park. Call Diana 01753 732907 continued over...


d s e t r n d s r e d e

e n s e e e s h r m m d t e g s d d n

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WD What's On... (May14)_Layout 1 18/04/2014 15:39 Page 2

keep-fit, dance & drama continued...



irish dancing classes For boys and girls from age 5 upwards. Beginners and advanced classes available. Monday, 6pm at Hayes Conservative Club, Church Rd Wednesday, 6pm at Greenford Visitation Catholic church hall Contact Deidre e: Deirdreosullivan@ hotmail.co.uk t: 07956 346383 Ladies only kickboxing club Wednesdays, 6.30-8.00pm at Watts Hall, Redford Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1SZ. First Class FREE! Just turn up or call Instructor Leanne Phillips on 07518 848285 e: leanne @kickboxing-longdon.co.uk www.kickboxing-london.co.uk Linedance for improvers Tuesdays 12-2pm Royal British Legion, Station Road, West Drayton. Call Instructor Ann 0791 435 8050 Line dancing Thurs 12-2pm. St Martins Church Hall, Church Road, West Drayton. Call Susan 01895 832837 susanwynne376@gmail.com Linedancing Tuesday evenings 7.30-10.30pm. Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Call Ann on 0791 435 8050 modern Jive classes Mondays, 8-11pm, West Drayton Community Centre Thursdays, 8-11pm, Uxbridge Civic Centre. Beginners welcome, first night entry and free lifetime membership with this advert. Contact: Alan 0208 933 4350 or 07860 250961 or email: alanandsue@clubceroc.com. nordic Walking & Wellbeing Explore our borough’s green spaces . with all round exercise in the open air 4 wk courses various days and locations pre-booking essential contact 07771 872 592 / learningmoves@hotmailco.uk



        

pilates, movement and matwork Tuesdays 7.45-8.45pm, Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Penny 01895 420409 or 07771 872 592 / learningmoves@hotmail.co.uk

pinewood fitness The Fitness Room, Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, Sl0 0NH Mon 20.00-21.00, Wed 19.30-20.30 Booking only. Various Fitness Circuits, Boxercise, Gym Work £5 a class. Shaun Thompson, www.tauruspt.co.uk 07906 087749 tai chi classes Sat 10-11am, Yiewsley Methodist Church, Fairfield Road, UB7 8EY. Call Dan on 07880 601429 to book. 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. Yoga for all Wednesday 7.30-9.00pm Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Priya 01895 440712

11.30am-12.30pm @ 26 West Drayton Park Ave, UB7 £35 for a 5 week course, £8 drop in, free trial class, concessions available slough sea cadets Parade nights on Mon and Thu 19.30-21.30 at Langley Pavillion, Langley Road, Slough, SL3 8BS. Male & Female Junior Cadets (age 10-12yrs) & Cadets (age 1218yrs). Fees £2 per week, courses from £5 for a weekend. Email: sloughseacadets@yahoo.co.uk 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. Call Deb 07986 050742 www.faradaycountry.co.uk

guitar lessons Complete beginners welcome. Contact Sam for a FREE lesson 07798 588496 sam@uxbridgeguitarlessons.co.uk

Zumba Mon 6pm, Walter Pomeroy Hall, Royal Lane Hillingdon UB8 3QU. Tues 7.30pm, St Marys Church Hall, Hemmen Lane (off Church Rd, Hayes) UB3 2JQ. All welcome. £5. Ann-Marie Samuels 07701 012927

Yiewsley & West drayton Band Rehearse every Wednesday and Friday 8-10pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. To join or book the band for an engagement contact Lynne on 07976 824152 or email Lynne@ywdband.com

Zumba fitness class Weds 8-9pm at Langley Grammar School Sport Centre Reddington Drive Langley, SL3 8LL. Thurs 7-8pm at Yiewsley / West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Rd, West Drayton. UB7 9JL. Call Gabriel 07735090325 or email gabrielzumba@instructor.net www.gabriel84.zumba.com

Yiewsley & West drayton training Band This is open to all ages wanting to learn to play a brass instrument or those of you wanting to 'brush up' your skills. Rehearse every Wednesday during term time 6.457.45pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley. Contact Abi on 07985 302 856 or emailtraining@ywdband.com

pre-schooL & kids groups...

pets...

hart Baby Yoga For class details www.zoehart.co.uk Stage 1 (3-6 months) 10.30am-11.30am Stage 2 (6-12 months)

iver dog training club Every Tue and Fri 6.30pm-9.00pm at St Andrews Church, Richings Park. Call Diana 01753 732907 continued over...


Instructor Leanne Phillips

 


WD What's On... (Jan14)_Layout 1 18/12/2013 02:41 Page 3

P self defence... close Quarter combat Based in Richings Park. Specialising in speed, strength and conditioning training. Pad work combinations. Suitable for men & women of all ages. 1-2-1 sessions. Call Mark 07525 366126 e: mj.wilding@hotmail.com

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Karate club of denham For ages 5 years and upwards. Sundays 9.15-11am at New Denham Community Centre, Oxford Road. Call 07988 743725 Karate club of Uxbridge For ages 5 years and upwards. Wed 5-7pm at The Greenway, Uxbridge. Call 07988 743725 Kung fu club West drayton Great Kung Fu work out for everybody, attractive trainings for children & adults on: Tue 5.30-6.30, Fri 7.30-8.30, Sun 5.30-6.30. West Drayton Community Centre, Harmondsworth Road, UB7 9JL. Contact Ella: 07702 479 435 or sportsclubuk@gmail.com Heathrow Boxing club Men & women, boys & girls Junior Boxing Club: Tue & Thu, 5pm. Senior Boxing Club Mon, Tue & Thu, 8pm. 422 Bath Road, Longford, Middlesex, UB7 0EB. Tel: 0208 123 1271.

Richings Park, Iver, SL0 9DD. For more information contact Howard on 07816 315688 Hillingdon Brain tumour Group Support group held every 2nd Thurs of the month 12.30-2.30pm, Hillingdon Baptist Church, Hercies Rd, Hillingdon, UB10 9LS. Call Cyril or Becky 01895 637444.

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rosemary conley Every Thursday 10-11.30am, Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Call Sarah on 0208 569 0181 slimming World The Salvation Army, Cowley Road, Uxbridge. Tuesday 7pm Tel: Nicki 07826 698360

slimming World New Denham Community Centre Tuesday, 10-11.30am. New joiners turn up at 10am to register Tel: Mandy 07879 897578

slimming World Yiewsley Methodist Church, Farfield Road, Yiewsley. Wednesdays 5pm or 6.45pm. Tel: Nicki 07826 698360 Weight Watchers Every Tuesday, 5.30pm and Friday at 10.00am Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre. Call 01784 256974 or 07879 455882

fortnightly. Call 01895 445766 senior citizens Welfare Association W/d & Yiewsley Bingo played every 4th Wednesday of month 1- 3.30pm. Yiewsley and West Drayton Community Centre. Transport available. Call 01895 443956 tea dancing 2-4pm every Tuesday at Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre 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. Call Seema on 07730 898635 or email seema@seema.co.uk sport... Hayes & Harlington road runners Every Wed, 8pm at Hayes and Harlington Community Association, Albert Road, Hayes. Sometimes meet up for Sunday runs too! Email: michsampson76@aol.com (ladies) jack.nisbet@talk21.com (men) www.hhroadrunners.com.

Martial Arts Bujinkan Kuri dojo Ninjutsu and Bujutsu, Unit 21 Bridgeworks, UB8 2JG. Tel: 07878 471124. Training: Sun 10.30am12.30pm, Tue 8-10pm, Thu 8.3010pm www.bujinkankuridojo.co.uk

Bingo club A friendly atmosphere, playing for cash prizes. Eyes down at 7.30pm Every Wed & Sun. Just pop along to Yiewsley & West Drayton Community Centre or call 01895 443423.

pink ladies netball club All levels and abilities welcome. Training takes place at Stockley Academy, West Drayton every Tues evening. Senior training 16+yrs 7.309pm. Back to Netball 16+yrs 7.308.30pm Under 16s - please Rhiannon on 01895 448878 for details email: plnetball@hotmail.co.uk visit www.pinkladiesnetball.co.uk

shorinji Kempo self defence Learn the practical self defence techniques of this traditional Japanese martial art. Tue 6-7pm children (£2), 7-9pm adults (£5). The Barn, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge. Call Dan 07776 421957. www.sk.harrow.ac.uk

damsels in success A group coaching experience for women. Meets at Ruislip Golf Club on the first Wednesday of the month at 10am. Call Ann to reserve a space on 01753 655308

Uxbridge squash club All squash players welcome. See: uxbridgesquash.org.uk. Uxbridge Cricket Club, Park Road, Uxbridge. E: squash@uxbridgesquash.org.uk

Harlington Women’s institute Every 1st Wed of month, 7.309.30pm at Landsdown House, St Peter's Way Hayes UB3 5AB. Call Sarah Wilson 0208 759 0019

Yiewsley & West drayton Bowls club Anyone interested in playing, do come along and join us. Just bring your flat shoes and join in! Tuesday, 6.30pm (weather dependent). Call Irene: 01895 446582

self Help & sUpport... Alcoholics Anonymous Meet every Sunday, 7.30pm at St Leonards Hall, St Leonards Walk, 

sociAl GroUps...

southlands ladies Group Talks, outings, own evenings. Mon

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