VillageLife Lifestyle | Business | Community www.villagelifemag.com
FREE
MAY 2010
• Codicote • Kimpton •Whitwell • Preston • Breachwood Green • Graveley • LittleWymondley • GreatWymondley • St. Ippolyts • Gosmore
SOUTH AFRICAN SAFARI Interview James Howe
PLUS E M I LY ’ S T E A S H O P
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
WELCOME Y
et again another month has passed and finally we are seeing some blue skies! This year seems to be flying by so make the most of the nice weather and get outside when you can. Why not pop along to Emily’s Tea shop for some home baked cakes and a nice cup of tea among the goodies they have on offer, if you have kids they will love the animals giving you a chance to enjoy your tea in peace. We are looking for some great photos for our front cover so if there are any budding photography enthusiasts with some high resolution photos of the local area please email us with your photos and we may use them on the front page! Of course we will make sure that you are given credit for taking it. Enjoy the two Bank Holidays in May and don’t forget your village events this month with the Kimpton May Festival from 30th April to 3rd May and Preston Open Gardens on 30th May. You can also catch The Jam DRC playing a charity event in Codicote on 22nd May at the Peace Memorial Hall. Don’t forget the magazine is online so visit www.villagelifemag.com and let us know what you think of the digital version by posting a message on the forum. Bye for now
Jose & Melanie
CONTENTS 3
Welcome to May
4
Business Spotlight: James Howe Landscapes
8
Business focus: Emily’s Tea Shop
12
Charity News:The Globe in Codicote support Great Ormond Street Hospital
14
Garden Calendar:What to do in May
CALL US: 01438 216950 EMAIL US: mail@villagelifemag.com VISIT US AND READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE: www.villagelifemag.com
EMILY’S TEA SHOP
8
AFRICAN SAFARI
18
18-19 OnYour Travels: South Africa Safari 22
Relationship focus: Paying for divorce
28
What’s on in May/Take a Break
Where Can You Find Village Life? Village Life Magazine is delivered to 5000 homes and businesses across 10 villages. Find us in Codicote, Kimpton,Whitwell, Preston, Breachwood Green, Graveley, Little Wymondley, Great Wymondley, St. Ippolyts and Gosmore. We are increasing our circulation every month, so if you didn’t receive a copy through your letterbox, you will do very shortly. Village Life is published monthly by MJS Publishing. 01438 216950, www.villagelifemag.com MAY 2010
EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Melanie Saavedra 01438 216950 sales@villagelifemag.com PRODUCTION Dean Cook, The Magazine Production Company 01273 467579 deancook@magazineproduction.com © 2010 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
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
James with his dogs climbing Snowdonia
James Howe Landscapes
H
aving graduated from Oaklands Agricultural College in 1996, I worked on numerous farms and developed my love for nature, wildlife and the outdoors. As jobs on British farms became fewer and farther between, I found myself working in closely related sectors, but my interest became more involved in horticulture. In 2002, I mustered up the courage to branch out and become self-employed and as my business took off; I quickly expanded my client base, and now proudly work across the county. I am thrilled that the business has thrived from year to year, and it has been extremely encouraging to earn a living doing something that I am still very passionate about . Over the years, I have been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to expand my knowledge and abilities in areas that I find challenging and rewarding. James Howe Landscapes offers a diverse range of services, from simple small garden maintenance to large scale landscaping. From mowing a lawn, planting a few shrubs and having a friendly chat over a cup of 4
Before
After
Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
MAY 2010
BEAUTIFUL FLOORS • • • • • •
Supply and fit leading brands of wood, laminate flooring and carpet Established and reliable family business with the personal touch Domestic, commercial and insurance work undertaken All work full insured and guaranteed Quality craftmanship at very competitive prices View samples, see references and a portfolio of previous work
CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE NO-OBLIGATION MEASURE AND QUOTE
TEL: 01462 817202 Mobile: 07903 594638, Email: mattsflooring@mail.com
www.mandrflooring.co.uk
M&R FLOORING
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Before
During
tea, to spending my day being harnessed to a tree, from creating and perfecting a straight and level hedge to removing hundreds of tons of soil from a back garden and laying intricate patios and driveways, I endeavor to provide work of the highest quality and standard in order to provide my customers with the landscape garden of their dreams. No job is too big or small to consider and achieve. My company is a reliable three-man team ( fivestrong if you include my helpful dogs who assist me on as many jobs as possible!), with all work done in-house so there is no need for sub-contractors, therefore ensuring we provide a quick and efficient completion of the job in hand, guaranteeing that our standards remain at the highest level. I pride myself on the ethos of the company, which is to relieve the pressure from my customers and reassure them that their requirements will be met with satisfaction and pleasure. Alongside the pride I take in my work, I am also incredibly passionate about the environment and offer an eco-friendly service that supports nature and wildlife, and I pride myself on the high level of conscientiousness I pay to waste management and recycling, as I feel a strong obligation to provide for future generations. I am also dedicated to developing myself and am currently working towards gaining my ISO 9001 Certificate, which is the series of standards against which the Quality Management System of a business is evaluated. I believe that this certification should enable me to achieve a significant competitive edge over my rivals, but would also like to believe that the recommendations from my current client base have already helped me climb to the top of my field. I offer a free quotation for every job, along with free expert advice on how to nurture and care for your landscapes. Any question you have will be answered, any problem you have will be solved. 6
After
“James Howe Landscapes were absolutely fantastic! Their quote was competitive and they actually finished the job a day early. I couldn’t have asked for a friendlier bunch of guys or a better service. They gave me everything I asked for - my garden is now the haven I was craving for”. Miss B McBryde, Stevenage “I was encouraged by their enthusiasm and hard work. I couldn’t find fault in their work whatsoever. It was a pleasure to have them do the work, and I would always turn to them first for all my garden needs.” Mrs B Drummey, Codicote “I couldn’t believe how big my garden looked after they’d finished - it‘s a dream come true.” Mrs R Currell, Hatfield “Completely exceeded my expectations! My new driveway is now my pride and joy!” Mr L Turner, Knebworth “Finally, a fence that our dog can’t escape through! Thank you so much!” Mr & Mrs F Jones, Stevenage For a free no obligation quote, call James on 01438 820 148 or 07787 517 372.
James Howe Landscapes Tel: 01438 820148 / 07787 517372
Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
MAY 2010
TEA FOR TWO?
Emily's Teashop T
his month we speak to Peter and Maxine from Emily’s Teashop in Whitwell. Before we became proprietors of Emily’s Teashop we both had some retail management experience. Peter had been a store manager with the Co-op, and Maxine had been in HR with Tesco, but was taking time out and was doing a youth work job, which she continues with today. We started Emily’s Teashop (formerly the Higgldy Piggldy) in March 2007. We had visited it a number of times before, the first time being with our first daughter Emily, when she was a few days old. The business was not being advertised, but following a bit of a ‘eureka!’ moment about our future, we decided we would approach the farmer at Waterhall and ask if
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he would be interested in subletting the tea shop. It felt like a bit of a risk as the location is off the beaten track and there is no passing trade. Lots of our friends advised against it, for lots of reasons. Throw into the mix the fact that we were due our second baby 3 months later, and it felt quite risky!! But life rarely presents you with a 100% watertight opportunity, and we felt strongly it was a risk worth taking. The ethos of the business is to offer customers good
value, homemade, ethically produced food at a reasonable price. We wanted to veer away from anything too modern, or anything that was too fast-food like and focus on rustic, nutritious food that was appealing to a wide variety of people - old, young, families, walkers, cyclists etc. Our menu includes light lunches such as jacket potatoes, homemade soup, toasted sandwiches and quiche. We also produce our own homemade cakes on the premises, particular favourites
Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
MAY 2010
STEPPING BACK IN TIME
being Fairtrade chocolate brownies and carrot cake. We are currently developing a range of gluten free cakes in response to customer demand. We needed to appeal particularly to walkers and cyclists, as, during the winter months, we saw that these might become the mainstay of our business. So, alongside tea, coffee and lunches, we also stocked a few inner tubes and puncture repair kits! These proved to be very useful for poor souls who have found themselves stranded with a flat tyre! A couple of years down the line, premises became available next door but one to the teashop, and Peter had the fantastic idea of renting the premises to open a bike shop. This developed into a shop 10
called ‘bike bay’ where people can bring in their unwanted bikes and associated items. We then either sell them for a small commission, or if they want to donate them, we sell them for a very small price. This is proving to be quite successful, but we need more things to recycle (excuse the pun!), so if you are sitting at home with a garage full of bikes and bits you no longer need or use, please get in touch!! There have been various other spin-offs from the teashop, including a Roman Gladiators Tournament in the riding arena; a small market, children’s entertainer and bar-b-q; pancake races every year and a Christmas Fayre. We also stock Hitchin Lavender products, Four Seasons Preserves - made in the kitchen next door, sacks of logs during the winter months, sacks of manure all year round and a huge variety of pumpkins at Halloween. We are located at Waterhall Farm in Whitwell, where visitors can see sheep, geese, goats, pigs, horses and a resident Bengal Eagle owl free of charge. There is a stunning garden that the farmer and his wife are kind enough to open up so that people can have a look around. Our latest venture has been to acquire some ex-battery chickens, and re-home them with two rabbits who were already in residence. We have only had them for two months, but they look like completely different birds now, and are providing a fairly steady flow of eggs for us to sell in the tea shop.
Some comments from previous customers
“I go to Emily’s 2-3 times a week. I enjoy going there because the staff are friendly and look after your needs in a personal way” Dave Francis “We love Emily’s Tea shop because we are really committed to fair trade and it is brilliant to find a place to go which has fair trade central to their ethos.The children love being able to see the animals, play, and have decent food and drink as well.We have some lovely memories of events at Emily’s Pancake Day just wouldn’t the same without the children’s pancake races down the lane.” Miriam Emily’s Tea Shop is open all year Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holidays from 10am to 5pm (4pm in winter) Do pop in and see us - we always like to see new faces. Mention Village Life magazine and we will give you a 10% discount during May (except on Bank Holidays). Written by Maxine & Peter Howarth Emily’s Teashop The Valley, Whitwell, Hitchin, Herts. SG4 8AF Tel: 01438 871928
Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
MAY 2010
GH Building and Landscaping design has years of experience to make your imagination become a reality. What we do... • • • • • • • •
Extensions Porches Conservatories Refurbishments Any general building work Patios, Decking and Pathways Laid lawn and garden preparation Building wall and outbuildings
62 Sparrow Drive Stevenage Herts SG2 9FD Telephone 01438 724660 Mobile 07867 794100 To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call Melanie on 01438 216 950
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Globe Promotions Presents
THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE BAND
22nd May 2010 from 8pm Peace Memorial Hall, High Street, Codicote, Hertfordshire. SG4 8NX Tickets £10 available from The Globe 115 The High Street, Codicote, SG4 8UA, 01438 820 349 This event will be raising money for the Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital Charity.
Large selection of beers, ales and wines Families welcome Traditional Sunday Lunch served every Sunday afternoon Free live entertainment every Saturday evening. Great home cooked food as reviewed by Village Life Magazine.
Telephone: 01438 820 349 The Globe, 115 High Street, Codicote, Herts. SG4 8UA
GARDENING
Spring has sprung
A
t last! The weather has finally decided that as everybody knows its now spring, it might just as well behave like its spring! Several days of warm sunshine and the longer days have certainly given the plants a welcome boost- unfortunately the downside is that the weeds have also got themselves going.Those fortunate amongst us who have a thick carpet of bark mulch over their flowerbeds may choose to ‘look away now’. For the rest of us, I’m afraid its time to get out there and get amongst our flowers and shrubs, pull up or hoe out those weeds and at least let them know that they are not at all welcome — if its any consolation, though, Caren and I went on a visit to the gardens of Buckingham Palace last week and even the Queen has the odd stinging nettle in her beds, so there’s hope for us all. Lawn -You should be mowing your lawn about once a week now to keep it looking at its best. This will also inhibit the weeds from getting a hold. It is also time to deal with those bare patches that appear in the lawn for one reason or another. Break up the bare surface with a fork, spread a mixture of grass seed and a general potting mix over the area and lightly compact the surface. You may want to cover the area with a net to stop the birds from eating the seed and the cats from doing whatever cats do in it! It might also remind those of you with hover mowers to keep away while it germinates, else your labours will all end up in the grass box.
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Bedding Plants – When any hint of frost has passed, from the second half of the month you can start planting your bedding plants. You should prepare the beds with a sprinkle of organic fertiliser, forking it in and removing any remnants of previous plants. Finally, before planting give the area a light rake to leave it with a level, fine crumbly appearance. Climbers — Any climbers against walls and fences that you have, need to be checked to make sure that any new growth is heading in the right directions. Tie in those that you want to encourage but cut back those that are growing away from their framework, you don’t want them pulling the whole lot down. Vegetables — Again, after the threat of frosts, its time to think about having a go at putting something really fresh on the table. How about getting a grow bag from the garden centre and planting it with three tomato plants in a sheltered, sunny spot. You need to keep them watered if there is a dry spell, and support them as they grow by tying them
to canes. Occasionally, you will need to nip out any side shoots that appear but it really isn’t too difficult, and actually is very satisfying to savour your own produce. The same goes for runner beans, a packet of seeds will have around 20 seeds, pop each of them in a hole about the length of your index finger deep and 150mm (6ins) apart and they will happily grow up canes about 1.8 m (6 feet) or more, high, either against a sheltered wall or free standing in a wigwam arrangement. A tip to give them a head start is to fill some toilet roll cardboard tubes with potting compost, plant one seed in each tube, keep indoors and moist until their shoots have a couple of leaves and then pop them into their final place in the garden, tubes and all, it stops the roots being damaged and the cardboard rots away over summer. Nip off the tops when they get tall enough for you and they will fill out nicely.They look attractive as they grow and produce a lovely fresh addition to any meat and three veg. dinner. Finally, after all this planting, I hope, in some ways, you have to remember to keep the new additions to your garden well watered — if nature decides to help you out with the odd shower or two, well so be it, but none of us wants her to do it all for us, do we? Fingers crossed for a warm, dry summer. Anyway, I think that’s enough to be getting on with, don’t you? Carens Creations 07855 862412 caren@carenscreations.co.uk
Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
MAY 2010
VILLAGE LIFE
MAY 2010
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VILLAGE LIFE
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Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
MAY 2010
Fringeline Unisex hair salon
VILLAGE LIFE
Liberation Beauty Salon
Unisex Hairdressers
Unisex Beauty Salon
Catering for all ages and styles
Catering for all your beauty needs
With Foil Highlights £75.50 incl. cut and blow dry
Including Reflexology & Indian Head Massage
Proprietress: Michelle Scott-Worthington
Beautician: Hayley Roberts
Fully Qualified Staff
Tel: 01438 833 468
Reduced prices for Senior Citizens & Children
Fully Qualified Staff
Tel: 07786 860 028
Late appointments upon request
46a High Street • Kimpton • Herts • SG4 8RN
MAY 2010
Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
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ON YOUR TRAVELS
A South African
A
Safari
s one of Africa’s top three safari destinations, the Kruger National Park offers visitors the chance to experience the “Big Five”. Originally used only by hunters, the term “Big Five” refers to five of Africa’s greatest wild animals — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. I visited the park in 2006 and was blown away by the whole experience.The Kruger’s scenery offers everything from the savannah to the forest, river and mountain and is truly breathtaking. The seasons in the Kruger Park area are more usefully defined by rainfall and the best time to visit is usually between May and August, although rainfall starts declining in April and is still fairly low in September and October.This is possibly the best time to visit for game-viewing as permanent 18
waterholes attract animals, the vegetation becomes thinned out and trees don’t have so many leaves to obstruct the view. What to expect on safari.... 5am – Wakey wakey rise and shine … It’s an early start. 5.30 am — Meet your ranger and tracker for early morning tea and coffee before heading out on safari, typically on open 4X4 safari vehicles.The best game viewing is to be found first thing in the morning and the anticipation is half the excitement!You could meet a herd of elephants at a drinking hole, observe a herd of shy impala or get up close with a pack of Lion’s…just wait and see! 9.30am: Safari vehicles start returning from the game drives for breakfast. 11.00am: Depending on the season and the rules of the reserve,
many lodges offer a Safari Walk with an armed tracker.This gives you a chance to see insects and birds.The tracker will tell you fascinating stories as well as the traditional cultural and medicinal properties of trees and plants. After your walk you will have a chance to relax and unwind or enjoy a swim to cool down. 1pm: Lunch then more time for relaxing or take an afternoon nap. 4pm: As the sun starts to set you will join the other guests and rangers for afternoon tea before the evening Game Drive. 4.30pm: Safari Time!You will head out on your second Game Drive for the day with a beautiful sunset as the backdrop.The animals start to become more active again and the nocturnal animals get ready for their hunting. Your ranger will be driving the
Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
MAY 2010
ON YOUR TRAVELS
vehicle and the tracker is up front looking out for tracks and spotting the animals. 6pm: As the sun sets the ranger will pick a good spot for a sun downer where you will pause to watch the sunset and enjoy some cocktails and refreshments. A real safari tradition! I really enjoyed this!! 6.30pm: As it starts to get dark, the tracker and guide use a powerful spotlight to catch sight of the animals.The animals eyes reflect in the spot light and the ranger and tracker will concentrate on finding the nocturnal animals such as Leopards and Lions. 7.30pm:Back to the safari lodge to freshen up before dinner with a lovely glass of wine or two. This may sound hectic and a very long day but I can tell you MAY 2010
that the buzz and excitement when you actually see the animals makes the early mornings worthwhile; you will be counting down the minutes until you are back on the safari vehicle! You have a choice of places to stay whilst on safari from tents to luxury lodges; I stayed at a lodge called “Shumbalala Game Lodge” in the heart of the Thornybush Game Reserve.This is a beautiful lodge and the whole team couldn’t do enough for you, I can’t wait to go back one day. For the more adventurous why not stay in a luxury tent — don’t worry they have everything you need and are very safe (it is not like camping in the UK!), typically the tents are fully air-conditioned with your private ensuite so you can relax in a warm bath after an exciting day’s game viewing.
Children are welcome at the majority of lodges but you would need to check on an individual basis the minimum age, this tends to be around 8 years old as you will appreciate that you need to be very quiet and sit fairly still on safari, so this may be a little too much to expect from younger children. I would definitely recommend going on safari and this can be teamed up with a beach option or a city before or after either in South Africa or maybe off to the Indian Ocean. If this whets your appetite for adventure then please give me call for more information and prices. Off Broadway Travel 07932 154240 melanie@ offbroadwaytravel.co.uk
Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
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VILLAGE LIFE
Italy - Studio Apartment for Sale £30,000 CASTEL DI IERI - ABRUZZO: FULLY FURNISHED Located in the very centre of the four national parks of Abruzzo. 45 minutes drive from Pescara and two hours from Rome. Fully renovated to the highest possible standard, furnished and equipped for immediate occupation. Extremely low running and maintenance costs. Can be left securely when unoccupied. For further information please contact Christine on 01462 423 304 (No offers please).
Christine Challens 0510 HP.indd 1
19/04/2010 18:25
• • • • • • • • •
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Please mention Village Directory when responding to advertsMAY 2010 Village The Life | Hitchin www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
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MAY 2010
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RELATIONSHIP FOCUS
Paying for Divorce
T
he breakdown of a marriage can have dramatic and far reaching consequences. As well as leading to the break up of a family, there will be profound financial repercussions. Emotional support can be sought from family and friends. Organisations such as Relate can provide professional counselling, helping parties to cope with the transition from married life to separation. The role of the lawyer is to provide advice at a time when a party is feeling vulnerable and uncertain. The lawyer must promote negotiations to settle issues and when agreement is not possible, prepare the case for a decision by a judge at court. So how is the lawyer to be paid? Where parties have very limited income, they may be eligible for legal advice and representation funded by the Legal Commission. Whilst “legal aid” is available for issues about the children or finances, it is not available for the divorce proceedings themselves, although there is provision for limited advice and assistance. However, “legal aid” is not free; it is a loan. Unless the other party pays the costs, then the Government will require that loan (subject to a number of exceptions) to be repaid from money or property recovered in proceedings. Sometimes, parties will be able to pay legal fees from income. In addition to the solicitor’s fees, there will be additional expenses that the lawyer will have to pay on a party’s behalf. Often a party’s family may help with legal costs, either as a gift or as a loan to be repaid later. Most solicitors’ practices will accept payments by credit card. Parties can also look at personal loans to help fund legal fees. In some instances where a party may not have readily available resources but will receive substantial financial provision upon divorce, banks may be willing to provide a facility to pay legal fees to be repaid from the settlement received. Where one party has substantial resources and the other party has limited or no resources, the court will want to create a “level playing field” where a party does not have resources to fund ongoing proceedings, the lawyer may apply to the court for interim maintenance which can include an ongoing contribution to legal costs. However, it is all very well considering how fees 22
are to be paid. All parties must keep legal costs to a minimum by negotiating and agreeing where possible. Where issues are in dispute, it is all too easy for costs to escalate out of proportion to what is in dispute. It is always wise to instruct a specialist family lawyer. Resolution’s 5,500 members are family lawyers committed to the constructive resolution of family disputes. Our members follow a code of practice that promotes a non-confrontational approach to family problems. Our members encourage solutions that consider the needs of the whole family - and in particular the best interests of children More information can be found at www.resolution. org.uk Written by Jeremy Chandler–smith from JCS Solicitors. JCS Solicitors Tel: 01438 820946 www.jcssolicitors.co.uk
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 www.jcssolicitors.co.uk Hill House, 1 St Albans Rd, Codicote, Herts, SG4
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MAY 2010
VILLAGE LIFE
MAY 2010
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VILLAGE LIFE
Firebreather
LIMO
16 The UltimateBus Seater Partyrts as The Party staboard soon as you
Pumping Sound System Nightclub Lighting Dance Pole • LCD TVs Music Videos Karaoke • Champagne Bar Ideal for any celebration including Kids Parties, School Proms, Hen and Stag Dos, Sporting Events, Concerts, nights out to London or any destination of your choice.
0845 643 6920
www.firebreatherlimo.com 24
Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
MAY 2010
The Bucklersbury Clinic Complementary Therapies
• Shiatsu • Indian Head Massage • • Rejuvenating Eastern Facial • • Reiki Seichem • 30a Bucklersbury, Hitchin, Hertfordshire. Telephone: 01462 434900 by appointment
FloralFusion
VILLAGE LIFE
Modern and Traditional Bouquets. Handtieds,Table arrangements and celebratory arrangements. Births,Weddings and funeral tributes all made to you special requirements. Same day deliveries always available covering a wide local area. If you would like to send flowers to your loved ones but they are out at work all day we deliver in the evenings when they are at home to receive them in person. Telephone orders welcome we accept debit and credit cards.
Floral Fusion at Waterhall Farm, Whitwell, sG4 8aF Telephone 01438 871210
HOME APPLIANCE REPAIRS
ucklersbury Clinic 0510 QP.indd 1
20/04/2010 Floral Fusion 10:54 0510 QP.indd 1
Repairs of Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Electric Cookers & Ovens and all domestic appliances. Specialist in Hotpoint, Indesit, Ariston, Creda and Whirlpool.
SHIRON
PERFECT PETZ & POLISH House sitting & Pet sitting Book NOW for your holiday Also - Regular and one off dog walking & pet feeding while you are at work or away Domestic house cleaning Very friendly, personal - affordable prices
DOMESTIC APPLIANCES
Fully insured and references available
Mobile: 07739 922493
Call Jo for prices and information on 01462 850161 - 07917 866840
Tel: 01438 720304
MAY 2010
19/04/2010 16:43
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VILLAGE LIFE
Village Village Tree Services Tree Services Professional Tree Care Services All Aspects of Tree Work Undertaken Fully Qualified and Insured Logs Available
Tel: 01462 435 873 Tel: 01462 435 873 Mobile: 07717 744274
Mob: 07717 744 274
lage Tree Services 0310 QP.indd 1
22/02/2010 13:46
To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory please call Melanie on 01438 216 950 23
UNIT 3B 113 - 115 CODICOTE ROAD CODICOTE HERTFORDSHIRE AL6 9TY TELEPHONE: Mobile 07891 039835 E-MAIL: ianlawrence4@aol.com
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To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory plac
Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
MAY 2010
VILLAGE LIFE
“Would your garden also benefit from a makeover? If your answer is ‘Yes’, then I’m here to help you” CAREN BLACK – Garden Designer
Qualifications • • • •
RHS Certificate in Horticulture: Distinction 2002 Diploma in Plants and Planting Design Student of the Year 2003: Capel Manor College Diplomas in Garden Design and Garden History
Experience • •
Founded Caren’s Creations in 2003 Has designed over 40 gardens - portfolio and client references available for inspection
Services • • • • •
Gardens Designed in full consultation with Clients Full range of individual, personal plans Project Management Full Planting service Gardens Restored / Maintained.
Caren’s Creations We tailor our service to fit your requirements Contact: Caren Black or Cliff Martin Tel: 01438 871373 (Whitwell) or 07855 862412 Email: caren@carenscreations.co.uk
aren's Creations QP 0410.indd 1
19/03/2010 15:33
MAY 2010
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VILLAGE LIFE
What’s on in May Friday 30th April – Monday 3rd May
Saturday 22nd May, 8pm till late
Kimpton May Festival The theme for 2010 is “Once upon a time” so expect some magical floats to grace the high street of Kimpton. For more information go to the website, http://www.kimptonmayfest. co.uk/index.html
Peace Memorial Hall, Codicote The Jam DRC – The ultimate tribute band to The Jam will be playing, with proceeds from ticket sales going to Great Ormond Street Hospital. Tickets are available from The Globe in Codicote for £10.
Monday 3rd May May Day Celebrations 10.00 am - 12.00 noon. Join the revels and learn new skills: Maypole Dancing, Victorian games, Country Dancing. Free entry. Light refreshments available to purchase. The British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin, Herts, SG4 9TS
Sunday 16th May Wymondley JMI School Car boot Sale Wymondley are holding their very first car boot sale in a very long time! If you feel you may like a stall, please contact Tracy Day. Letters to parents haven’t gone out yet, so get in first. If you wish to reserve a pitch, please contact Tracy. We will be on the play ground (so no muddy field). Set up is from 9am and buyers can arrive from 10am. It is £6.00 a car and free of charge for buyers. Refreshments will be available. OBVIOUSLY IF THE WEATHER IS REALLY BAD, IT WON’T GO AHEAD! But will keep you informed nearer the time. Contact: Tracy Day on 01438 358537
Tuesday 18th May – Saturday 22nd May The King and I St Albans Operatic Society brings you one of the greatest of all Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musicals. This dazzling blend of East and West is based on the diaries of Anna Leonowens, the English governess engaged in the 1860s to teach the children of the King of Siam, in his palace in Bangkok. Box Office: 01727 844488
Friday 28th May Briefcase Blues Brothers Get ready for the most exciting show this season as the Briefcase Blues Brothers burst onto the stage and take you on a riotous rollercoaster ride of highs…and highers! Box Office: 01438 363200
Sunday 30th May, 1-5pm Preston Gardens Open Day 14 gardens in this pretty village 3 miles south of Hitchin offer a variety of sizes, styles and planting with many interesting features including unusual plants, wild areas and water features. The small Arts and Crafts church of St Martin will be beautifully decorated and open to visitors. Stalls on the Green and Teas in the Village Hall. Also Barbeque on the Green from 12 noon. Map supplied on admission. Entry £3.50 (children free). Free parking. Contact Liz on 01462-433859 If you would like your local event listed for free in Village Life, please email details to mail@villagelifemag.com
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Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
MAY 2010
VILLAGE LIFE
J M FLATLEY
Artisan Loft Ladders
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M Flatley QP 0510.indd 1
Lofts cleaned, cleared of rubbish and lined with plasterboard and insulation
01992 633 883 www.artisanloftladders.co.uk
20/04/2010 10:57
I confirm that the above advertisement / editorial is as per my req authorisation for it to appear as shown in the above publication
Signed _____________________________ Print name_______ Date ____________________ Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950
MAY 2010
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MAY 2010
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Glass o f De House licious Wine with th is issu
ew come a long for hen you am before the end ain meal of May! Jus
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Country Bar, Pub, Restaurant and Shop Local Food, Local Beer and Australian Wine. We opened our doors to you on Good Friday - 2nd April, The Rusty Gun (formerly the Royal Oak on the Hitchin to Codicote road). It has been picked up, shaken, stirred and is very definitely different. • • • • • • •
The Rusty Gun goes off with a bang!
Delicious food made from as much locally sourced produce as we can A carefully chosen team who bring alive our philosophy of focusing on your needs and giving the best customer service in Hertfordshire Our very own, specially brewed ‘Rusty Gun Bitter’ from the Old Cannon Brewery Our amazing wine offer is provided and priced to allow you to explore the extensive wine list at amazing value A huge garden for alfresco summer time dining A fully stocked Produce Shop with locally sourced food and treats! A great place for walkers and riders – dogs are welcome in the bar and horses may be tethered outside (drinks are provided free for both!!).
Thumbs up from satisfied, happy customers as our Head Chef, Jollan D’Souza transforms The Rusty Gun
“Excellent atmosphere, very pleasant surroundings, defiantly one to recommend and come back to” — Tom Catton “Very friendly, very helpful. Nice to have a unique experience around this area of Hertfordshire” — Deborah Piscina “Very pleasurable visit – huge changes from the ‘Royal Oak’ era – fab decor, friendly staff, fantastic food, will definitely be back with friends & family” — Sue Swanton “We had good fun, and thoroughly enjoyed it” — Norma Fears “We were impressed by the refurbishment to the building. It now has a wow factor, especially the shop. Varied and interesting menu with eating quality to match. A friendly, relaxed atmosphere in pleasant comfortable surroundings” — Mr & Mrs Elleston
The Rusty Gun London Road, St Ippolyts, Herts, SG4 7PG
Tel: 01462 432653 E-mail: info@therustygun.co.uk Innventure Ltd. Trading as The Rusty Gun. Company Registration number: 04792721