Village Life Hitchin 1113

VillageLife Lifestyle | Business | Community www.villagelifemag.com

HITCHIN

FREE

ISSUE 52 : November 2013

Kip mcgrath

education centres The Magic Of Christmas Guy Fawkes and Hatfield House

PLUS Local Businesses showcased • Codicote • Kimpton • Whitwell • Preston • Breachwood Green • Graveley • Little Wymondley • Great Wymondley • St. Ippolyts • Gosmore • Knebworth • Welwyn Village

ACOLINE WATER SOFTENERS LTD

Non Electric Block Salt Softeners Uses up to 60% Less Salt 10 Year Guarantee Purchase or Lease Rental FREE Salt Delivery We Repair ALL Makes of Water Softener

VP/TP Š

Telephone & request a brochure or book a free demonstration 104 Ampthill Road, Shefford, Beds, SG17 5BB

01462 811487 w w w. a c o l i n e s o f t e n e r s . c o . u k

WELCOME to november!

Welcome to the November issue. Well, last month spoiled us with a few last warm days before reminding us that the summer is a distant memory. With the clocks having gone forward, the shorter days remind us that the festive season will soon be upon us!

This month, we have lots of great features – Gaynor Dawson gives us advice on dealing with stress, Jonathan Vernon-Smith talks about how to ‘avoid the holiday from hell’ and Leigh Goldsmith explains the connection between Guy Fawkes and Hatfield House.

We showcase local businesses Daniel Rycroft Upholstery and Reeves & Holdsworth, the Sash Window Specialists. We also hear from KipMcgraph Education Centres and The Magic of Christmas (a huge Christmas shop in a barn in Walkern).

If you have a local story or run a local group which you would like us to feature then please get in touch.

Don’t forget you can find the answers to the crossword on our website – www.villagelifemag.com and we are also on Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter – @villagelifemag!

Bye for now,

Jose & Melanie

CALL US: 01438 216950 EMAIL US: mail@villagelifemag.com VISIT US AND READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE: www.villagelifemag.com

Contents 4:

Local news

6:

Wellbeing: Gaynor Dawson – Stress, Stress & More Stress

8:

Business:The Magic of Christmas

10:

Business: Kip McGrath Education Centres

12:

Business: Daniel Rycroft Upholstery

16:

Lifestyle: Avoiding the ‘Holiday from Hell’

18:

Stepping back in time: Guy Fawkes & Hatfield House

18:

Business: Reeves & Holdsworth – Sash Window Specialists

24:

What’s on in November / Take a break

Where Can You Find Village Life?

Village Life Magazine has a readership of 17,500 people and is delivered to homes and businesses across 12 villages. Find us in Codicote, Kimpton,Whitwell, Preston, Breachwood Green, Graveley, Little Wymondley, Great Wymondley, St. Ippolyts, Gosmore, Knebworth and Welwyn Village.

November 2013

magic of christmas: page 8

guy fawkes: page 18

Editorial & advertising enquiries Melanie Saavedra 01438 216950 sales@villagelifemag.com Village Life is published monthly by MJS Publishing.

01438 216950, www.villagelifemag.com © 2013 Village Life (Hitchin).Village Life (Hitchin) is an independent magazine and does not endorse the products or services that appear in the magazine. Opinions expressed in the magazine do not necessarily represent those of the editor or of Village Life magazine.

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

3

LOCAL NEWS

‘Oh What A Lovely War’ 7th-9th November 2013

With the centenary of WW1 approaching in 2014, the Kimpton Players have taken the opportunity to put on the popular show ‘Oh What a Lovely War’ in remembrance and respect of the fallen men of Kimpton during the 1914-18 War. Debbie Roberts, the show’s producer, comments how ‘rehearsals have been both educational and entertaining but most of all it reminds us of just how futile war is’. The show spans historical events from before and during the war, combining wellknown songs of the era together with satirical sketches critiquing the inept leadership of the time whilst sensitively portraying the horrors of life faced by men in the trenches.

Oh What a Lovely War will be performed at Kimpton Memorial Hall from the 7th - 9th November 2013 at 8pm. Tickets are available from the Box Office: 01438 832 237, The Boot Pub or The Corner Stores in Kimpton. Adults £8, Students £5.

The Kimpton Players are a thriving amateur dramatic group based in Kimpton Village that have been running for 70 years, they aim to put on three productions each year. They are a registered charity and, since their inception in 1943, have raised many thousands of pounds for local and national groups and charities. They have an energetic youth section, the Junior Kimpton Players (JKP), who produce their own shows and participate in some of the other productions.

For further information on The Kimpton Players and details on previous and forthcoming productions, visit www.thekimptonplayers.co.uk

KATS present their Latest Production ‘Guards Guards’ 21st to 23rd November KATS (Knebworth Amateur Dramatic Society) will be staging their latest production ‘Guards Guards’ in Knebworth from the 21st to 23rd November.

‘Guards Guards’ by Stephen Briggs is adapted from the novel by Terry Pratchett. Carrot is different from the other dwarves – he’s six feet tall! There’s only one thing for it – he’ll have to leave and join the City Night Watch in Ankh-Morpork. It’s unfortunate that he’s arrived at just the moment when the city is under threat from a 60 foot long, fire-breathing dragon... perhaps the Librarian, whose dabbling in magic had the unfortunate side-effect of turning him into an Orang Utan, can help him. To aficionados of Terry Pratchett’s Disc World, it will all sound familiar. For the rest of us – it will just be tremendous fun.

The play will be staged at Knebworth Village Hall, Park Lane SG3 6PD. Doors open at 7.15pm for a 7.45pm start and there is a bar. Tickets £7.00; concessions £6.00 from Jo Simson 01438 - 814166 or Village News, Station Road Knebworth. For further information on KATS, visit www.katsdrama.info 4

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

November 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Langford Windows Doors and Conservatories Your Local Glazing Specialist

Full range of Soffits, ttering Fascias & edGu Guarantee •

• 10 Year Secur • Quality Assured Profile • Internally Beaded • • • Shoot Bolt Security Locks • Multi-Point Door Locks • Maintenance Free • Over 35 years experience •

For your FREE QUOTATION & Friendly Advice, Advice please call 01462 701 828, email: langfordwindows@fsmail.net or visit www.langfordwindows.com Langford Windows HP 0511.indd 1 Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 November 2013

13/04/2011 12:50 5

wellbeing

STRESS, STRESS & MORE STRESS According to the most up to date research stress is costing the UK around £10 billion each year, with 8 million Britons suffering from stress related disorders.

Gaynor Dawson is a Behavioural Change Coach at Life Practice Hitchin and will be giving us advice and ways to manage stress and related issues each month.

S

tress is a very individual thing – a situation that one person finds intolerable, another may find exhilarating.The definition of stress is feeling overwhelmed and out of control, feeling we cannot live up to the demands placed on us by ourselves and others.

Here at Life Practice Hitchin we believe there are three stages of stress: Stage one: Is when someone feels unwell and fearful but is not sure why.They may feel out of control, restless and tense. Panic attacks are common at this stage.

Stage two: The person feels agitated, on edge and exhausted. Symptoms of anxiety and insomnia are heighted.Their eating habits will have changed and they will probably be consuming more alcohol than usual.

Stage three: This is burn out stage.The person will feel mentally and physically exhausted.

Stress starts in the mind, the way in which we perceive a situation as requiring our immediate attention – hostile reaction from a colleague, an exam or presentation, pressures from children, financial crisis, marriage break up, an impossible deadline, a loved one’s death and so on.

Our conscious mind can only cope with an average of seven pieces of information at any one time.Too many things going on for too long can create overload and pressure; therefore we can struggle to cope. It is easy to see how we become stressed, isn’t it?

Top tips to manage stress: 1. Exercise – is the best tool to combat stress. Endorphins and the bodies natural opiates and are created directly through exercise. I know it’s tough when you’re feeling

stressed but if you start exercising for 40 minutes 4 times a week, you will start to feel better immediately 2. Breathing technique – When we are stressed our heart rate and breathing rate both increase which makes us feel short of breath and can be terrifying. A quick way to feel calmer and more in control is to breathe in a way that realigns the carbon dioxide and oxygen.

• Breath in through your nose slowly and hold the breathe for the count of three.

• Then breathe out slowly through your nose to the count of five.

• Repeat this breathing technique around 20 times focusing on breathing slow, steady and counting.

3. Diet – being aware of what you eat is incredibly important as blood sugar levels will increase when you are stressed. It’s best to avoid sugary, processed or refined foods. It is these we crave when stressed but they will cause your blood sugar levels to become a roller coaster which in turn will increase the stress within your body and low mood as will caffeine, alcohol and chocolate!

4. Gratitude and achievement diary – it’s easy to see everything as being negative when we are feeling stressed. One way to change the neuro pathways so that we think and feel more positive is to write down three things you are grateful for every day and three things you have achieved, no matter how small they may seem.Writing this at bedtime will help you to sleep better too.

Once you have recognised the symptoms of stress you simply need to make appropriate changes to take back control of your life.

info@lifepracticehitchin.co.uk www.lifepracticehitchin.co.uk Life Practice Hitchin, 30 Bancroft, Hitchin SG5 1LA 01462 337020 | 07714 781016 6

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

November 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

St Paul’s Walden School School in Action Day – Tuesday 12 November

If your child is going to be starting Reception in September 2014 we warmly invite you to view our school and meet our amazing children and staff.

Our children enjoy:

• An action packed curriculum and exciting Enrichment sessions • Inspirational teaching • Small classes and a high staff ratio • Excellent learning facilities • Enjoyable Forest School sessions • Specialist music and sports facilitators • Excellent KS2 results – English Level 4: 100%, Maths Level 4: 92% “Pupils’ enthusiasm and excellent behaviour contribute to their good achievement.” Ofsted, 2011 St Paul’s Walden School is situated in the village of Whitwell. Our pupils come from Whitwell village, the nearby towns of Hitchin and Letchworth and surrounding villages. We are only a 10 minute drive from Hitchin, Stevenage, Harpenden and Luton.

To book an appointment to visit our school, please contact us.

Telephone: 01438 871241; Email: admin@stpaulswalden.herts.sch.uk Find out more about our school at www.stpaulswalden.herts.sch.uk

The red lion Ray & Jo Lambe welcome you to the Red Lion in Preston ‘Good Pub Guide – Value Pub of the Year, 2013’ Our fresh, seasonal menu with be available over the Christmas period as will our celebrated real ale offering with some seasonal additions. With a roaring fire and cosy, welcoming atmosphere come along and enjoy a beautifully prepared meal or pint of award winning beer.

Join us to celebrate our 30th Xmas as a village/community owned public house.

We don’t take reservations online, we’d rather talk to you in person so please give us a call on 01462 459 585. www.theredlionpreston.co.uk @RedLionPreston (Twitter) The Red Lion, Preston, Nr Hitchin, Hertfordshire November 2013

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

7

STEPPING BACK IN TIME

The Magic of Christmas The Old Rectory Farm, Walkern, Nr Stevenage, SG2 7PD 01438 861100 www.themagicofchristmas.net

T

ransform your home into a Winter Wonderland this Christmas at The Magic of Christmas, an enchanting Christmas shop in a large barn on a working farm in Walkern.The shop was initially opened 12 years ago as a way of diversifying and utilising space on the farm. Over the years it has evolved and you can now lose yourself for hours browsing a huge range of decorations, including garlands, wreaths, artificial or natural Christmas trees, baubles, stunning lights, exquisite table accessories and much much more...There is also a newly refurbished Nordic Tea-room where you can enjoy hot snacks, home made cakes and a range of pasties etc provided by local suppliers. Make sure you stop and take in the amazing aroma of the popular Nordman Fir Christmas Tree.

The Magic of Christmas aims to provide its customers with good quality items that they will enjoy for many years.Their vision was to achieve the standards of the top London department stores in their barn at affordable prices.This has involved a lot of research and legwork attending Trade Fairs in this country and abroad, however this has enabled them to buy stock from European countries like Belgium and Holland as well as England and Ireland, offering a truly unique Christmas shopping experience.

Founders Jeremy and Paul explained, “When we first started out we only used part of the barn but our stock levels have risen year on year. Many of our customers travel from all over the country and expect to find new items of both traditional and modern items to decorate their homes.

We have found the spacious barn an ideal area in which to create wonderful displays and generous floor space for our customers. It is a huge bonus to be able to display fully dressed Christmas trees showcasing our range of crystal, linen and wooden tree decorations.We stock a wide variety of china, glassware, candles and advent items which all need display space.

The creation of a designated Kiddies Corner has proved very popular with our young customers and their parents.

8

We challenge ourselves by changing our Santa’s Grotto every year as we aim to produce an enjoyable experience for the children.We are looking forward to Father Christmas arriving by helicopter (weather permitting) on the 16th and 17th November.

The growing numbers of commercial clients has led us to stock big decorations and displays suitable for shop windows and other business premises.We carry a large range of readymade Christmas wreaths, garlands and table decorations and happily fulfil special orders for our customers.

The artificial Christmas trees which we stock in various colours including green, red, gold, silver, blue and white in different sizes are all on display.We also stock Danish non drop trees that are mounted on specially designed stands by the car park so people can see the whole tree before they make their choice” The Magic of Christmas is open Monday – Saturday 9:00am – 6:00pm and Sunday 10:00am – 4:00pm. From 9th November, Santa’s Grotto will open on Saturdays 10.00am - 5.00pm and Sundays 10.00am - 4.00pm. Every child will receive a present and sticker.

For further information visit www.themagicofchristmas.net, facebook.com/EverythingChristmas or call 01438 861100

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

November 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Specialists in Annual Boiler/Central Heating Services Plumbing & Heating Requirements l Boiling & Heating Installations l Power Flushing l Pumps, Radiators & Valves l Boiler Upgrades l Hot & Cold Water Tanks l All Plumbing & Heating work undertaken l Free no obligation quotations l l

info@staggproperty.co.uk | www.staggproperty.co.uk

01438 712712

Peace of mind

for you and your family The Hertfordshire Fune Funeral eral Plan is a bespoke bespoke, e, pre-payment plan exclus exclusive sive to Austin’s which takes care of your wish wishes es and simplifies the arrangements for your loved ones.

Planning ahead for peace of mind

www.austins.co.uk WELWYN GARDEN CITY • 01707 390018 STEVENAGE • 01438 316623 WELWYN • 01438 714686 HITCHIN • 01462 438422 HERTFORD • 01992 582052 KNEBWORTH • 01438 812365 WARE • 01920 468551 BUNTINGFORD • 01763 274111 austins_HFP_HBI_LandHPC_129x186_artwork.indd 1

November 2013

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

16/1/12 10:49:16

9

business

Getting back to basics – the three R’s Since we have computers to help us write, spell and calculate.

How important are the 3R’s in 2013?

I

The three Rs (as in the letter R) refers to the foundations of a basic skills-orientated education program within schools: reading, writing and arithmetic.

The original phrase “the Three Rs” came from a speech made by Sir William Curtis in 1795.

t was so long ago when teaching the basic skills of reading, writing and arithmetic was identified as the key areas that our children required to become successful, independent learners.

Why are we now cramming so much into our school’s curriculum? Why are we delivering it all at high speed leaving these basic skills to chance? And even more importantly, how does this affect us as adults in later life?

These are just a few of many questions that as parents we could be asking.

Why after 12 years at school are so many young people still unable to read, write or calculate basic maths?

Every child can achieve success with the basic skills of reading, writing and maths. Some children do learn faster than others but all children can learn if given the time they need to assimilate and consolidate their learning.Why are we not ensuring every child has the basic skills they require?

Do we need to be able to write or calculate now we have computers?

Learning to read, write and calculate basic sums is essential to allow us to be able to communicate with others in the world around us.These skills create the person we become. Selfesteem, confidence and independence are all fostered from successful learning and our ability to grow and achieve our goals.

In today’s society employers have a huge choice of applicants for the jobs on offer. Many now insist upon the applicant holding basic qualifications in these core skills.What jobs are left for our young adults who have not achieved these basic levels?

How does this affect their later life?

What can we do to help our children be successful with their learning?

Kip McGrath Stevenage focuses on teaching the basic skills, developing independent and successful learners who can then

take their new found skills and confidence and use this in all other areas of their learning.

Why is reading still so important?

Reading is the key which unlocks successful learning, not only at school but in many areas in later life. If you can read you can access all areas of our ever changing world.

With the advances in technology and the development of the internet, we can easily communicate with people all over the world. Information is at our fingertips and we can find out anything we need. However, this is only helpful if you can read and assimilate the information you have found.

How does Kip McGrath Stevenage teach reading?

We are very excited that we can offer our students one of our three reading schemes. Our schemes have been tried and tested over many years and are proven to be successful worldwide.

No previous reading experience is required to access our Early Reading scheme.This then leads the child onto one of our main reading schemes that teaches the child until they become confident, independent readers who can access the levels of reading which our society demands.

Each reading scheme teaches phonemic knowledge alongside sight words recognition (tricky words) ensuring that each of our students are successful. Our schemes include handwriting, sentence structure and comprehension making sure our children can not only decode and read the words but can also understand the meaning and use these within their own writing and vocabulary.

Please don’t leave this to chance. If your child or grandchild requires some additional teaching to help them master the basic skills and develop their confidence contact us for a free assessment to be organised.

For further details or to book your child in for a FREE assessment please contact Karen Johnson on 01438 365467.

“Every child can learn if they are taught properly,” ( Principal, Kip McGrath).

10

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

November 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Build a brighter future for your child Kip McGrath’s qualified teachers create individual tutoring programmes for your child, using proven Kip McGrath methods of tuition.

Maths Reading Call today English Spelling for a FREE Comprehension assessment STEVENAGE • 01438 365467 19-21 Middle Row, Stevenage SG1 3AW

kipmcgrath.co.uk/stevenage

Emily’s Tea Shop present their Christmas Fayre 30th November 2013, 4.30pm-6.30pm Our traditional Christmas Fayre will be a festive treat, featuring local choirs, warm mince pies and hot mulled wine, chestnuts roasting on a roaring log fire and festive stalls. Of course, there may well be a blizzard or a monsoon to boot if recent years are anything to go by!!

Entry is free, so please come and join us and enter into the festive spirit – just make sure you dress for all weathers!”

01438 871928 Waterhall Farm, The Valley, Whitwell, SG4 8AF Visit facebook.com/EmilysTeashop

November 2013

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

11

business

D

aniel Rycroft Upholstery deliver the highest quality bespoke upholstery and re-upholstery possible.The business was setup 5 years ago and is run in partnership with Daniel’s father.With a combined 37 years experience in the trade, they are second to no one else in fine hand crafted furniture.

Services include restoration of upholstered furniture both antique and modern; from simple recovering to full strip down to frame and total refurbishment. Dining room chairs can be recovered from £20 per chair plus the cost of the fabric. Also new bespoke, upholstered furniture to the client’s own specification including bedroom chairs, stools, and headboards covered in sumptuous fabrics to complement bedroom decor. Many of their upholstery fabrics are also available in matching curtain fabrics.

They work closely with customers to combine design ideas and to ensure the final product is exactly what is desired ergonomically and aesthetically. Every small detail is considered and finished to suit any decor.They work closely with many of the UKs leading fabric to ensure they have an extensive selection of rich fabrics through to hard wearing contract fabrics.

Daniel explained, “Being a Father and Son established business, the interest in upholstery has developed into a hobby as well as just a career, and therefore we strive to deliver an even more unique and priceless piece of furniture. Over the years our problem solving has developed to a point that we have the confidence to tackle any challenge, and there is no job too big or small, too complicated or tricky, we relish any challenge.We do not strive to compete with large manufacturing companies, and we will never lower our standards.

We will always guarantee to manufacture your perfect piece, or to make your already perfect piece of furniture better than it was originally.”

For a free no-obligation quotation of for further information, contact Daniel on 07771 644 668, 01234 772 234 or email info@danielrycroftupholstery.co.uk

12

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

November 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

RUSSELL DICKSON GARDEN LANDSCAPE DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

Stonework Paving Patios Terraces Walling Turfing Planting Water Features & Related Projects Call: 07833 591340 01438 821384 www.russelldicksonlandscape.co.uk e: russelldickson33@gmail.com

Beauty Studio november offers

Book a manicure receive a half price pedicure Book a Gellux manicure receive a half price Gellux pedicure Book a Calgel manicure receive a half price Calgel pedicure

Call 01438 820967 to book

‘it’s a snip’

Hair Length Ladies Wet Cut: Short: £22.50 Wash, Cut, Blow Dry Short: £28.00 T-Section, Cut, Blow Dry Short: £62.00 Full Head Weave Cut, Blow Dry Short: £82.00 Full Head Tint Cut, Blow Dry Short: £50.50 Gents Dry Cut £12.00 Hair Ups from £25.00

Medium: £27.50 Medium: £32.00 Medium: £67.00 Medium: £98.00 Medium: £54.50

Long: £30.50 Long: £38.00 Long: £72.00 Long: £110.00 Long: £58.00

Concessions Tues/Wed for over 60’s. Late night Thurs.

Call 01438 821180 to book

160 High Street, Codicote, Herts, SG4 8UB November 2013

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

13

lifestyle

Avoiding the ‘Holiday from Hell’ As I write, I’m lying round the villa pool in my favourite holiday destination - Frigiliana in Southern Spain. I thought, therefore, that I would make ‘holidays’ the subject of this months’ article.

H

oliday complaints are one of the most regular features on my consumer radio show. There’s always something very unpleasant about being miles away from home, in a foreign country with different standards and ways of doing things and finding yourself in need of complaining.

There are ways of reducing the chances of you having a horrible holiday though. Particularly if you follow my advice.

Firstly, ALWAYS book with a good, reputable holiday company. Please avoid the ‘cheap as chips’ internet bargain companies. Sadly you usually get what you pay for.

Secondly, if possible book a formal ‘package’ holiday.

This gives you much greater protection against things going wrong and reduces the chances of you being left stranded abroad when you find the hotel you’ve booked has gone bust. Some holidays look like package holidays but aren’t and therefore don’t come with the same protection. If in doubt, check with the company and get confirmation in writing.

A good package holiday will be ‘ABTA’ bonded. This means it should be of a certain standard. If the holiday doesn’t meet with your expectations, ABTA offer an independent arbitration scheme to establish who is to blame. This costs the company much more than the consumer, so they are usually keen to resolve the complaint before it gets this far.

Thirdly, always pay on a credit card. It will probably cost you a little extra but will be worth every penny if things go wrong.

Fourthly – DO YOUR RESEARCH!! If like me, you enjoy a relaxing, quiet holiday away from loud music and screaming children, a fortnight in Magaluf is probably a no no! The internet and review websites make avoiding a potential holiday disaster so much easier these days. If you don’t do your research and end up having the holiday from hell, you only have yourself to blame!

If you do all of the above and you still find yourself in a less than satisfactory position, it’s very important to complain in the right way. Firstly make your complaint to the hotel manager in a firm but polite manner. If they are unable to resolve the problem then you must complain to the holiday representative (either in resort or over the telephone to the UK).You need to insist on being given a complaint form that both you and the company sign.

Hopefully they’ll sort everything out to your satisfaction but if not, and you intend to pursue the complaint when you get home, this form will be essential.

Sadly all too many British tourists have a miserable time on holiday, complain ineffectively and then return to the UK intending to get a refund. Unless you can prove that you gave the company a reasonable opportunity to resolve the problem whilst the holiday was active, you can kiss that refund goodbye. It’s known as ‘mitigating loss’ and you have a responsibility to do it.

Finally if you do feel that compensation is in order, be reasonable. Claiming a 100% refund because the water pressure in the shower was poor will just make you look like a greedy scrounger. Be reasonable and most reputable companies will respond accordingly.

Remember, if you’ve followed the above and you still find yourself locked in a dispute with a holiday company, call me on 08459 455 555 weekdays from 9am at BBC Three Counties Radio.

Written by Jonathan Vernon-Smith presenter of the Award Winning JVS Show on BBC Three Counties Radio.

16

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

November 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Visit our beautiful

Bathroom Showroom ...With more than 50 displays of bathrooms, furniture & fittings Free in-house 3D design service Quality products from leading manufacturers Experienced staff offering impartial advice Free delivery within a 20 mile radius of our showroom

01438 725309

bathrooms@stevenageplumbing.co.uk www.stevenageplumbing.co.uk

Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS

DAVID THOMAS GARAGES Service is our Business • • • • • • • •

For all your vehicle servicing and MOT requirements Latest Bosch Diagnostic Equipment Air conditioning servicing and repairs Fuel injector testing and ultrasonic cleaning Friendly, personal service from family run team All work carried out by fully skilled and trained staff We do not carry out extra work without your authority Courtesy vehicles available on request

Telephone: 01438 820 288 www.davidthomasgarages.co.uk Newtown, Codicote, Herts. SG4 8UG Now also at Bury Lane, Bramfield – 01992 536 110 November 2013

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

17

STEPPING BACK IN TIME

The Mercenary Guy Fawkes and Hatfield House Written By Leigh Goldsmith (lilylawler@googlemail.com)

I

n 1605, London was a divided city. Following the death of Queen Elizabeth 1, the Catholics contemplated a life free from the torture and persecution suffered throughout her reign.They were hopeful her successor, King James 1, would show the tolerance and acceptance they so desperately sought.

However , by 1604, it had become apparent that this would never be the case. Catholics continued to be tortured and executed under James 1. As a result , thirteen men came together in 1604 to hatch a plot to kill King James 1 and bring the Houses of Parliament to their knees with a massive 2,500kg of gunpowder.The plot, which intended to cause mass chaos and devastation by blowing up the Houses of Parliament, would forever be known as The Gunpowder 18

Plot.They intended on killing King James 1 and the Prince of Wales along with several other members of Parliament.This would be in retaliation for the mistreatment of Catholics. On November 5th 1605, sitting in the cellars of the Houses of Parliament with 36 barrels of gunpowder, one of these conspirators was unaware of the notoriety he was about to receive. He was to become England’s most famous traitor. He was Guy Fawkes.

In the weeks running up to November 5th 1605, some of the conspirators began to have second thoughts. Facing the probability of killing fellow Catholics and many other innocent victims, it was decided that an anonymous letter would be written and sent to William Parker (4th Baron Monteagle) advising him of the plot and warning him not to attend

Parliament on this day. On receiving the letter,William Parker read it aloud and passed it to Robert Cecil, (1st Earl of Salisbury) the King’s most powerful minister. Robert Cecil decided to hatch a plot to catch the conspirators, subsequently foiling the attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament.

On November 5th 1605, Guy Fawkes was found in the cellar of Parliament with the explosives. He was captured, tortured and executed. It was during this torture that the full extent of the plan became apparent.The Gunpowder Plot was to be the beginning of a religious revolution by Catholics.Their initial attempt would make history, but not in the way they intended.

On the very night of 5th November 1605, bonfires were lit across London commemorating the survival of James 1 and the capture of Guy Fawkes. It would continue for centuries and today, Guy Fawkes Night or Bonfire Night is celebrated across the country with firework displays and bonfires on or around the 5th November.

Indeed Hertfordshire is no different.

What is more, is that Hatfield House holds a very strong link to Bonfire Night. It was built in 1611 by none other than Robert Cecil (1st Earl of Salisbury), the man responsible for hatching the plan to catch the conspirators of The Gunpowder Plot.

The beautiful Jacobean house remains to this day in the same family and is now owned by Robert GascoyneCecil, the 7th Marquess of Salisbury.

The home retains a wonderful piece of history, and a link to the country’s most famous Mercenary, Guy Fawkes.

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

November 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Deep Cleaning plus Fast Drying for Upholstery, Carpets, Leather Cleaning Amtico & Karndean Floors Cleaned, Carpets & Fabric Protector Leather Renovation, Burn Retufting, Oriental Rugs & Curtains Specialist Recommended By Leading Retailers, Insurance Companies & Other Cleaners!

Professional, Reliable & Good Value for Money 25 years experience Courteous & Uniformed Operatives - not a Franchise We operate in Stevenage, Hitchin and the surrounding areas

74 High Street, Codicote, SG4 8XD

www.cleaningneeds.co.uk

November 2013

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

19

VILLAGE LIFE

Hertfordshire’s Premier Travel Service Airport Direct Cars provides a quality private hire car service at affordable costs, using a modern fleet of Saloons & MPVs (up to 8 seats) for business or private travel.

All drivers are fully licensed and we are very experienced in organising transport solutions for meetings & conferences. Single or multi person travel can be arranged giving you the total visibility on all transfers and costs.

Airport Transfer Departures & Arrivals Corporate & Business Journeys Frequent Flyer & Regular Run Service

Contact us for competitive prices on all your travel requirements or to open a business account. Telephone: 01438 812615

Sea Port Departures & Arrivals

Get your holiday off to a stress-free start and avoid paying for ever increasing car park charges. We offer competitive rates without compromising on quality of service.

Wedding Parties & Social Events Sporting Events & London Theatre Trips Discreet, Friendly Service All major credit and debit cards accepted

01438 812615

www.airportdirectcars.co.uk Airport Cars Direct HP 0111 2.indd 1

20/01/2011 10:09

The girly blog that you just can’t do without Packed with all sorts of wonderful information...

Beauty keep

First Aid

Pet care Licences fit Passports

Sewing

Registration of births Childhood illnesses

How to fit a bra

The list goes on and on. Let us know what other things you are interested in and we will find out all the relevant information and put it on the blog.

Find us on Facebook.com/knickernatter Twitter @knickernatter.com 20

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

November 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Reeves & Holdsworth The Sash Window Specialists

R

eeves & Holdsworth are a high quality box sash window refurbishment and repair company with 20 years experience.

Their aim is to provide a high quality service and make your windows easy to use, using traditional techniques but also incorporating modern additions to make your sashes more efficient and practical.These modern additions include replacing your staff and parting beads with new ones inclusive of draft proofing, which is non invasive without affecting the aesthetics of your windows. And double glazing of existing windows using slimlite glass, bedded and faced with a putty like compound, never unsightly bead!

The business is made up of a small team of craftsmen, all highly trained and experienced with City & Guilds qualifications in bench joinery before specialising and becoming experts in Sash window, repair, restoration and bespoke window construction.

Lorcan, one of the partners explained, “My business partner and I worked for leading sash window companies before deciding to combine our skills to offer a high quality bespoke service.There is no problem that we cannot solve and we offer a range of services including Repairs, Sash Window Restoration where both sashes our fully removed, the box and sash are stripped back to bare timber, new cords, staff bead and parting bead containing draft proof are installed. A draught proof strip is routed into the meeting rail of the bottom sash. Loose putty is replaced and pulleys are lubricated to ensure smooth movement; Sash Window Ironmongery offering a wide range of window furniture from traditional brass, to modern polished chrome.

Insurance rated catches to finger pulls and handles;Window Re-cording using UK manufactured, waxed cotton sash cord; Sash Window Single and Double Glazing with Restoration glass, float glass, patterned glass etc.”

“A massive thank you to Reeves & Holdsworth, windows look great.”

“Super job, quiet and efficient would definitely recommend.”

“I am very pleased with the work carried out on my windows. Excellent work!”

For further information or to arrange a visit for a no-obligation quotation, call 01438 833354, 07923 954860 or visit www.hertssashwindowrepair.co.uk

Sash Window Specialists

Water

Full Window Refurbishment Draft Proofing Major & Minor Repairs Double Glazing Existing Sashes City & Guilds Qualified We aim to conserve as much of your original window as possible 01438 833354 07923 954860 www.hertssashwindowrepair.co.uk info@reevesandholdsworth.co.uk

November 2013

is the most important substance in the world But not all water is created equal.

Kangen Water™ is rich in minerals with all impurities removed, restructured and ionised using our patented advanced technology.

Providing the perfect balance of health and hydration.

Kangen Water™ is refreshing with a wonderful taste and saves money compared with buying bottled water.

It’s easy to create your own healthy water!

With a Kangen home unit!

For further information contact 07891 953 352 / 01438 723723

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

21

VILLAGE LIFE

For Specialist Matrimonial Advice

JCS SOLICITORS Divorce & Separation Cohabitation Children

 We are a niche firm who provide a supportive and personal service during the stressful experience of divorce and family separation.

We cover Herts & Beds.

Tel: 01438 820 946

Andrew Sinclair Electrician

All domestic electrical work undertaken from a socket to a rewire 20 years experience City & Guilds qualified

Kitchens Bathrooms Fusebox changes l

Call for a free quotation Tel: 01438 832 673 Mob: 07796 648 930

www.jcssolicitors.co.uk Hill House, 1 St Albans Rd, Codicote, Herts, SG4

127 High Street, Kimpton, Herts, SG4 8QN

Need help with your PC? Premier male grooming studio offering: Professional discrete service Holistic Massage Male Waxing IPL (Laser Hair Removal) Facials / Microdermabrasion Spray Tanning

 All your computer problems solved  Friendly, affordable, jargon free service  Training and advice provided  Website design and hosting  Home and small business specialists  Local company, fast response time  We guarantee NO FIX NO FEE

Fully Qualified & Insured

Call now on: 01438 833 671 spectrum IT support 01438 715222 / 07436 800615 www.bodyworks4men.co.uk 40a High Street, Welwyn AL6 9EQ 22

Solving your IT problems

info@spectrumITsupport.co.uk www.spectrumITsupport.co.uk

25 To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call Melanie on 01438 216November 950 2013 Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

VILLAGE LIFE

Village Village Tree Services Tree Services Professional Tree Care Services All Aspects of Tree Work Undertaken Fully Qualified and Insured Logs Available

America’s Hottest Spray Tan is now available at Bodyworks!

A spray tan is the perfect answer to achieving a healthy glow and cheating your way to a slimmer body: No orange No streaks    No horrid smell Long lasting  Whatever your skin type xen-tan  delivers beautiful  olive tones    l

l



 Call 01438 715222 

Tel: 01462 435 873 Tel: 01462 435 873 Mobile: 07717 744274

Male/Female therapist available

Mob: 07717 744 274

HOME APPLIANCE REPAIRS

lage Tree Services 0310 QP.indd 1

22/02/2010 13:46

5 Pondcroft

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory please call Melanie on 01438 216Garden 950 City23 Welwyn

Repairs of Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Electric Cookers & Ovens and all domestic appliances.

Specialist in Hotpoint, Indesit, Ariston, Creda and Whirlpool.

Hertfordshire AL7 3PX

The flooring store that comes to your door

Carpets Vinyls Laminates Wood Adaptations & repairs l

l

for a free quotation call Ewen McPherson on

SHIRON

07966 463761

Tel: 01438 720304

Email: info@eccarpets.com

DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

Mobile: 07739 922493 November 2013

or

01707 338505 the pleasure is underfoot

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

23

what’s on

What’s on in november...

Friday 15th to Sunday 17th November, 10am - 4pm Knebworth Christmas Fair, Knebworth House, Knebworth SG1 2AX Wide range of arts, craft and gift stalls including jewellery, handicrafts, hand made cards, photography, candles, aromatherapy products, ceramics and wood turning. Wine, real-food, chocolates and other confectionery. www.oakleighfairs.co.uk

Saturday 16th November, 10am - 7pm Hitchin Rotary Wine and Food Festival 2013, Hitchin Market Square and The Sun Hotel, SG5 1DY The 5th Wine and Food festival organised by Hitchin Tilehouse Rotary Club.

Over 25 wine and food companies will come together to tempt and delight your taste buds. Wine master classes throughout the day.

Thursday 21st - Saturday 23rd October, 7.45pm (Doors open at 7.15pm) KATS present ‘Guards Guards’, Knebworth Village Hall, Park Lane, Knebworth SG3 6PD KATS present ‘Guards Guards’ by Stephen Briggs (adapted from the novel by Terry Pratchett). Tickets £7 (concessions £6) from Jo Simson 01438-814166 or Village News, Station Road Knebworth

Friday 22nd November, 7pm Hitchin Christmas Lights Switch on, Market Place, Hitchin Britain’s Got Talent finalist Gabz Gardiner will be switching on the Christmas lights in Market Place, Hitchin. Various entertainment will also be put on during the day, from bands playing music to stalls for people to do their Christmas shopping.

Saturday 23rd November, 4pm- 5pm Lights of Love Welwyn Garden City Ceremony, The Campus, W.G.C AL8 6BY Ceremony to remember loved ones and friends who will not be with us this Christmas. Short service of remembrance, the singing of carols, and a countdown to the lighting of the tree. You will be able to take home a small star to keep and hang on your own Christmas tree.

Email maria.alexander@isabelhospice.org.uk

Saturday 23rd November, 10pm - 4pm Craft4Causes Crafts and Vintage Tea room, The Free Church, Church Road, W.G.C AL8 6PS Monthly Art and Craft Fair. Local Crafts, Producers and Artists showcasing their work. Browse the stalls and enjoy coffee, sandwiches or cream tea in our lovely Vintage Tea Room. This event is run as a social enterprise and any profit is donated to a different charity each month.

Saturday 23rd November, 9.45am - 5pm Harriet Kelsall Annual Christmas event, North Barn, Fairclough Hall Farm, Halls Green, Weston SG4 7DP Come and peruse the bespoke jewellery collections for some great Xmas present ideas and join us for a glass of mulled wine in aid of charity.

This is a free event, running all day.

GET YOUR EVENT LISTED FOR FREE HERE, EMAIL: mail@villagelifemag.com or call us on 01438 216 950

Take a Break…

ACROSS

DOWN

1. sleepwalker (12)

1. more than a few (7)

7. always (4)

2. mix (5)

8. deepsea annelid (8)

3. painter (6)

9. says ‘hello’ (6)

4. savannah-dwelling monkey (6)

10. east (6)

5. a disreputable person (7)

11. can (3)

6. audible warning (5)

12. throw carelessly (5)

13. ingenuousness (7)

14. raising agent (5)

15. horses’ shelters (7)

16. ocean (3)

16. to pay a debt (6)

18. lack of food (6)

17. counting frame (6)

20. lightweight (6)

19. perfume (5)

22. of the home (8)

21. worthy (5)

23. large package (4) 24. negligence (12)

24

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

November 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

There are times when some of us need advice with family matters.

Obtaining legal advice and assistance however can be an expensive process particularly if you have to pay for the costs of instructing both a Solicitor and a Barrister.

Under the new Public Access rules clients can now instruct a Barrister directly without having to first see a Solicitor thus potentially saving a huge amount of time and money.

If you need specialist advice or assistance and want to instruct a barrister then please contact me on

01223 43 1725 or

jeffrey.deegan@fennerschambers.co.uk

Jeffrey Deegan

MIKE GREER Painter & Decorator

Established in Welwyn & Knebworth since 1998 Interior & Exterior Painting, Decorating & Papering

Respectful to your home Reliable & Friendly Service

SN MAINTENANCE

All Your Fencing Needs Supplied & Fitted

01707 880 256 07968 100 619 November 2013

FENCING Free Estimates Council Approved Hedge Cutting Garden Maintenance Friendly & Reliable Service

Call Simon on 07971 860 135 / 01707 326 366

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

25

SHOWCASE

JORDAN

OIL BURNER SERVICES ESTABLISHED 1968

An Independent Oil Boiler Maintenance Company Offering: REGULAR ANNUAL SERVICING COMMISSIONING • BREAKDOWN SERVICE OFTEC Registered & Certificated by Major Manufacturers.

01438 355583 / 07831 364607 www.jordanoil.co.uk

To The Roof

Herts Aerials

PROFESSIONAL AERIAL SERVICES · TV Aerial Installs • · Storm Damage Repairs • · Improving Poor Reception • • Same Day Service Available • • No Call Out Charge • • All Work Guaranteed •

01438 811191 07985 756636

TV Aerials and Satellite dishes installed by fully insured TV Engineer.

TV / DAB Aerial installations, Sky Setup / upgrades / multiroom / remote extenders, Freesat systems, Foreign channels etc...

07595 985 025 www.totherooftvaerials.co.uk

I.B HYDE & SON All Types Of Plastering 35 Year Est. Family Business Internal & External Walls & Ceilings Skimmed Renovation - Lime Mortar Rendering, Pebble Dashing 01582 725266 or 07774 790400

41 High Street, Welwyn, AL6 9EF

Open Mon to Sat 7am – 10pm, Sun 10am – 8pm 10% discount when you purchase non-prescription items Ask about our free medicine delivery service

01438 840240 26

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

CODICOTE PHARMACY

09:24 Codicote Online 0610.indd 18:41 123 HIGH ST,1CODICOTE, SG410/05/2010 8UB

01438 821418

• FREE prescription collection from any surgery • FREE home delivery of medication & shopping • Passport photos & digital processing

01438 216 950

• NHS & Private Flu jabs available here

GOT YOU

CODICOTE CAT CARE

You have read this ad too!

How can you not invest £25pm HERE to reach out to YOUR new customers?

CALL 01438 216 950 Terms and conditions apply.

BRIDGE COTTAGE PHARMACY

Want to kick your computer?

Telephone: 07889 056172 michael.ray@codicoteonline.co.uk

18/09/2013 Looking for a reliable Dog Walker to advertise here.

Call

Herts Aerials SHW 0913.indd 1

COMPUTER PROBLEMS

Advertise here TO 17500 LOCAL CUSTOMERS

JUST £99 for 4 months

CALL 01438 216 950 Includes design of advert

Home feeding service for cats & small animals • Great alternative to a cattery

while you are away

• Your animal will be

fed & spoilt rotten

• Daily text messages

& pictures sent to you

07951 532633

codicotecatcare@icloud.com

Looking for a reliable House Cleaner to advertise here. Call

01438 216 950

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

November 2013

James Howe Landscapes Design

Construction

Maintenance

Design Services Grass Cutting Planting Turfing Drainage Garden Clearance Brickwork Tree Work Hedge Reductions Patios Driveways Fencing Decking Rockeries Water Features Free quotation and advice.

With James Howe Landscapes, you are guaranteed a friendly, reliable and quality service.

M: 07787 517372

T: 01438 820148

jameshowelandscapes@btinternet.com

Ricky Tyler Landscapes Grounds Maintenance & Landscaping

The Complete Garden Maintenance Company Grass Cutting • Hedge Cutting • Flower Beds Planting, Mulches and Lawn Care Ricky Tyler Landscapes can offer a full range of garden and grounds maintenance services whether a one off job or weekly maintenance visits, we can be of help.

Office: 01707 324 262 Mobile: 07986 224 095 ricky@rickytylerlandscapes.co.uk www.rickytylerlandscapes.co.uk

“Gardens that dreams are made of!”