Village Life Hitchin May 2012

VillageLife Lifestyle | Business | Community www.villagelifemag.com

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ISSUE 34: May 2012

Whitwell Steam & Country Fair

Welwyn Twinning Association Julie New – Changes Forever

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

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WELCOME to MAY As we write this mid April, we have been teased with some lovely sunny days and then lots of April showers so let’s hope this month brings back that Summer feeling!

We have been contacted by lots of local people over the last few months with details of their associations, local events and stories which means we can help showcase them. Please get in touch if you have a local story that you would like us to write about.

This month we meet up with Julie New, author and inspiration behind the Changes Forever organisation, we feature the Whitwell Steam & Country Fair - a great local event and we also look at the Welwyn Twinning Association. As always we showcase lots of fantastic local businesses.

CALL US: 01438 216950 Don’t forget you can find the answers to the puzzles on our website – www.villagelifemag.com and we are also EMAIL US: on Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter – @villagelifemag

mail@villagelifemag.com

Bye for now,

Jose & Melanie

VISIT US AND READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE: www.villagelifemag.com

Contents 4:

Local news

6:

Wellbeing: Marilyn Tuck – Studying & Snoring

8:

Lifestyle: Julie New – Changes Forever

10:

Business: UHY WKH – Working with small businesses

14:

Business:The Sacred Space Company

whitwell fair: page 16-17

welwyn twinning: page 18

16-17: Community:Whitwell Steam & Country Fair 18:

Community:Welwyn Twinning Association

20:

Business: IFindAnyCar.com

28:

What’s on in May/Take a Break

Where Can You Find Village Life?

Village Life Magazine has a readership of 15,000 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.

May 2012

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

01438 216950, www.villagelifemag.com © 2012 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

Great Wymondley renaming village on 3rd June 2012

Great Wymondley is re-naming its village GREAT DYMONDLEY for the Sunday 3rd June Diamond Jubilee celebrations. After the successful Royal wedding event on the green last year it was decided to do something a little different.

David Jackson approached John Hope owner of The Priory on Priory Lane between the Wymondley villages. The magnificent tythe barn is usually used for weddings and is a fabulous undercover venue but also has the option of using the gardens if the weather is good.

Of course it will be a great night and so an event starting 7.00pm and going till 11.30pm could harness the facilities John has and make it a great venue for a big party.

The Priory is very supportive of the event as it involves the local community. For £40.00 a head, you can enjoy a great band (Purple Rinse) and a 3 course buffet with Champagne Starter and Royal Toast.

The theme is black and white and of course the glitter is guaranteed along with the superb food and entertainment.

It is a one off event to celebrate our Royal Roots in the Wymondleys and local villages but The Priory has made it very affordable for the 5 star quality on offer.

Tickets are on sale and are going fast for this 5 star event. Dust off the DJ’s Tiaras and let’s celebrate a great tradition in Britain. Contact Jackie Harding to get your seats reserved.

Phone 07966 328895 or email paulandjackieharding@hotmail.co.uk

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Ashwell at Home 2012 This year, Ashwell at Home will be on Sunday 13th May, from 12 noon - 6.00pm, raising money for the village museum, church and school.

Although gardens are a key attraction, the village is covered with a wealth of amusing, entertaining, informative, interesting and refreshing events which make for a packed afternoon with something for all the family.

In addition to 15 open gardens ranging from a medieval farmhouse enclosed by a moat to a seven year old family garden created in 135 year old village school grounds, there will be a wide selection of displays ranging from beautifully embroidered christening robes to musical instruments and vintage bicycles.

There will be an exhibition by local photographers, honey tasting and bee keeping, a plant stall, cake stall and a car boot sale, as well as Morris dancing and Henry Harris’s funfair. Model railway enthusiasts will find two tracks at the school, and other clubs and societies will have exhibits in the Village Hall. And everywhere you will find “Ashwell Alive” plaques telling the history of many of the houses.

You can visit Ashwell Quarry Nature Reserve, an ancient chalk pit with wild flowers and chalk springs and even climb St. Mary’s Church tower for spectacular views over the village and way beyond (admission £3.00).

And when you feel the need for a break, homemade lunches and teas are readily available.

Ashwell at Home 2012 offers a convivial atmosphere and some exciting attractions. So do come along and enjoy a great afternoon out for all the family.

When you arrive in Ashwell please park in the Free Car Park which is well signposted. You can then purchase a ticket for £5.00 (accompanied Children under 14 are free) – with this you get a map and list of all there is to offer to help you choose your route.

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

May 2012

The Station

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WELLBEING

How is the study going?

A

fter last month’s article on studying and exams it has been good to see parents bringing their children in for help to focus, and all leave smiling.

From an early age we are guilty of putting the pressure on our kids to do well. However, remember how constant reminding can often turn people off? For children there are plenty of ways to be sidetracked – emails, texts, computer games, music and friends.You wonder how they can ever revise when they are multi-tasking like this!

Children have amazing mental capacity, and while you sometimes wonder why it is not being maximised, an objective person with the right skills in encouraging focus and concentration may just make all the difference in their attitude and results. It lightens the whole family up.

I suggest 2 or 3 consultations. £40 for 45-60 minutes.

Do you know someone who snores?

A

re you kept awake with this snorting and noise? Are you having to shove that person over through the night? or, are you listening from a distance and wishing they would deal with it? Are you embarrassed about having visitors in the house, or going away on holiday with your snorer?

Well, I have news for you.The new stop snoring audio is now available at my website or scan the QR code here.

It is in both mp3 and CD.You suggest your snorer needs help, you tell them it is simple.They listen in bed, when they are ready to go to sleep, straight from an ipod or listening device of some kind. All they have to do is put the headphones in and listen. At the end they discard the headphones, roll over and go to sleep. Simple! They are in bed anyway so it’s easy.They have nothing to lose except the sound, and much to gain with a happy, rested, household.You will get your sleep.

Snoring is caused by fatty tissue slightly obstructing the passage of air through the throat.This pleasant hypnotic audio works to tighten the muscles around that area, and also brings awareness of when snoring starts so they can turn themselves over and sleep quietly on. Listening details are included.

We know that snoring is more common in those carrying extra weight or after a night out drinking.

6

However, in some cases the fatty tissue is so pronounced that the air is blocked and every so often the breathing stops.This is called sleep apnea and should be discussed straight away with your Doctor.

Next article – Deal with your weight, mentally take control of what you eat, let the excess fat go from the first week.

Ring to find out more... www.marilyntuck.co.uk Knebworth phone 07962 811907

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

May 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

S A C R E D S PA C E architecture inspired by you If you are embarking on a project to refurbish, extend or modernise your home, or build an entirely new one, then you need a design team who will treat your design as if it’s their own.

Feasibility Planning Building Regulations

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

7

lifestyle

‘Who are the Flowers in Your Garden?’

J

ulie New is a UK ambassador forWomen’s Enterprise recently representing the UK in Poland amongst 480 women from around Europe. She won the Enterprising

woman of the year’s Enterprise Challenge award in 2009, and is a caring, charismatic people person that inspires men and women all over the UK. Over the last 19 years, Julie has been through a tough personal journey with a difficult birth, a divorce, the death of her ex partner, and her new husband Rob suffering with health issues. However this has made her the strong woman she is today, and she always uses her personal experience to help others though tough times.

Julie changed direction after leaving a 20 year career in the NHS as a high grade nurse and midwife in 2005, she still wanted to help people.This lead to her training as a personal coach where she could help men and women thrive, not just survive following difficult times such as divorce, separation, bereavement and redundancy.

She setup her coaching business Changes Forever and became so busy that she started referring work to other coaches.At the same time she developed her analogy of Flowers in the garden which she explains, “Think of your life as a garden with yourself as a tree, if your roots are deep, strong and healthy they will withstand the storms in life.The relationships you have in your life are either flowers (helping your flourish and providing the nutrients for you to grow) or weeds (sapping your energy and bringing you down).We need to surround ourselves with flowers, people who have the right energy and help us to grow.”

In 2006, Branded with a sunflower, Julie started to grow her garden of people (coaches), who became known as 8

flowers. Over time it grew in to much more than just a business relationship, it was a feeling and they felt they were getting something much more profound, so Julie decided to get people together and turn the business in to a membership club.

Julie told us, “Changes Forever supports my life purpose which is to motivate and inspire others to be the best they can be in their world, making people smile and making sure they have what they need and are happy.We are purely there to encourage people to look after and invest in themselves so they can then help others, keep balance in their lives and ensure they are revitalized and energized, so they can cope with life’s challenges and thrive.

Being part of Changes Forever is like having an Emotional Gym Membership, there is a sense of community and it is a place that cares about you.We currently have members from the ages of 19 - 73 from all walks of life. Membership is just £8 per month and you never know what you are going to get out of it!”

In 2010, Barclays Bank invested in Julie and Changes Forever, the business branded and re-launched in February 2012 and is going from strength to strength.

From the age of 11, Julie has had a lifelong ambition to write a book, however at school she was told that she was rubbish at writing and that she should forget the idea. She didn’t believe she would achieve this, however her journey through life has inspired her to write a book based on her Garden analogy calledWho are the flowers in your garden?

It is a wonderful coffee table book that could be life changing and would make an ideal gift for your fellow flowers (friends and family).

The book will be officially launched at a family fun afternoon on Sunday 27th May 2012 from 2pm - 5pm at the Letchworth Centre For Healthy Living (Hitchin Road, Letchworth, SG6 3NA). Julie will be signing copies of her book between 3pm and 5pm and tickets are £10 for adults (including cream tea) and FREE for children (Bouncy Castle).

The event will be supporting the Growing People Charity.

For further information or to book online for the event, visit www.changesforever.com or contact Julie on 01462 674 000 or info@changesforever.com

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

May 2012

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business

Working with Small Businesses Adam Fernandes, Business Development Manager and Portfolio Holder from UHY WKH Partnership Chartered Accountants talks about his firm and the services they can provide small businesses…

A

s small businesses look to the future, whilst being affected by cash flow issues including competitors undercutting firms on price, and late payment, and how they can continue to provide cost effective and up to date services, it may be time to review how your accountants and tax advisers can help you.

At UHY WKH Partnership we believe that your business matters. Giving you confidence in your finances is our primary goal, whether you are a partnership, limited company, charitable organisation or individual.

UHY WKH Partnership is an established accountancy firm with three offices and over 60 staff based in the North Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire area.We provide business solutions to clients around the country as well as throughout Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, East Anglia and London.

UHY WKH Partnership provides a range of services, such as Audit & Assurance, Company Secretarial Services, Corporate Finance, Personal & Business Tax Compliance and Planning, Outsourced Payroll and Bookkeeping, Agribusiness, Financial Planning, H R Services, and Business Rescue & Recovery.

We work closely with you to ensure that our services are tailored to meet your needs with efficiency, accuracy

and clarity. Our specialist advisors have extensive experience in their fields and have developed relationships that can support and enhance your business practice. In addition to preparing accounts for the regulators, our primary objective is to provide you, as a business owner, with information, explanations and suggestions that will help your business achieve its aims and objectives.

So, as well as ensuring that your tax liabilities are legally minimised and the financial affairs of you and your business are up to date, as you would expect of any good accountant, there is much more we can offer you to give you peace of mind and to free up your time to deal with the things that you enjoy.

• Worried about the impact of current employment law?

• Fed up with the time it takes dealing with your payroll?

• Would rather spend the weekend enjoying yourself rather than keeping your books up to date?

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• Need help looking to raise finance?

• Just need someone to talk to about your business?

If the answer to any of these is yes then UHY WKH Partnership can help you.

If you would like to talk to me in the first instance please call me anytime on 01462 687333 or 07850 504044

Come to the professionals with expert knowledge, experience & resources to make a difference.

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

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13

business

S A C R E D S PA C E architecture inspired by you

S

acred Space is a family run business with over 60 years experience in the building industry and design related work spanning three generations. Now run

by Mick Baird, their expertise is in bespoke building design and specification, work with Listed Buildings and obtaining Planning Consent in difficult circumstances.

The business was started by Mick’s father in 1983, as a development vehicle to refurbish a hotel into apartments and was later used to offer architectural services.The Sacred Space Company name was introduced in 2006 to incorporate their ethos that they understand that each space they are designing is Sacred to each of their Clients in an individual way.Whether creating space for their children, or space for the family to spend time together, or creating an entire house for their family – every space then becomes Sacred and they treat each design as such and treat them with reverence.

The Sacred Space Company undertake Planning Feasibility Studies, Planning Drawings & Applications, Construction Drawings & Building Regulations and Troubleshooting Consultancy on projects in build that were not designed by them.

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For further information or to discuss an upcoming project, contact Mick on 01707 391415, info@thesacredspacecompany.co.uk or visit www. thesacredspacecompany.co.uk 14

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

May 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

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May 2012

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

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community focus

Whitwell Steam & Country Fair 19th & 20th May 2012

T

his year theWhitwell Steam and Country Fair will be held on the 19th and 20th May rather than in June to avoid clashing with other events during the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Celebrations. It will also be the first Steam & Country Fair on the Calendar and probably one of the first local outdoor events which will give everyone a chance to blow away theWinter cobwebs and enjoy a Spring outing.

There are some added attractions this year, with the appearance on Sunday at around 1pm of the hounds from Cambridge with Enfield Chase Hunt.This is a great chance for the public to see these animals up close as they are being paraded in the main arena.There will also be a stall where the public can try their hand at air rifle shooting and archery.

From small beginnings the Fair has become a major local event. In 1995 Nick Hill built a barn at Waterhall Farm in Whitwell to house his bygone days agricultural machinery.These were all powered by stationary steam engines and mounted on trailers, so that they could be exhibited at local shows. As a result of this it was decided to have a get-together at Waterhall each year, using Nick’s machinery and Nick’s friends would bring along 16

their tractors, stationary engines and sometimes a traction engine.

The popularity of the event grew so rapidly that in 1998 a much bigger event was held in a large paddock at Waterhall Farm and became the first “Whitwell Steam and Country Fair”.There was a funfair, steam driven gallopers, a beer tent and refreshments and some trade stands along with traction engines, tractors, stationary engines, cars and commercial vehicles. Although the weather was not brilliant, the event proved a great success.

The following year it was felt that the rally needed even more space so a much larger site was made available courtesy of the Bowes Lyon family at St Paul’s Walden, conveniently near the Strathmore Arms pub. During its 9 year stay at St Paul’s Walden, the rally continued to grow with more exhibitors, entertainment, rides, food stalls, craft tents etc. Because of the agricultural requirements for this site, in 2008 the event moved to a new site at Mansells Farm, in Codicote.

The rally is held in aid of funds for MacMillan Cancer Support and since 1998 has generated tens of thousands of pounds for the charity. In spite of the poor weather last year and a Sunday which was a virtual washout more

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

May 2012

community focus

Photos courtesy of Geoff Sheed Graphics 01438 821122

than ÂŁ1000 was raised for MacMillan. Over the years the number and variety of exhibits has continued to grow and it is now a major event on the National Traction Engine Trust Rally. Every year the number of steam engines being exhibited increases. In addition in 2011 there was over 100 tractors, numerous stationary engines, classic cars and commercial vehicles.There is also a large funfair, even more trade, charity and craft stands, food stalls and not forgetting the beer tent.

Among the crafts you can see demonstrations of thatching, hurdle making, chainsaw sculpture, owl displays and other interesting crafts.

The fair is a fun day out for the whole family with something of interest for everyone.There is a programme in the main arena which includes a parade of the big steamers, miniature steamers, vintage cars, motor cycles, tractors and gun dog demonstrations.

There is even a chance after the parade of the large engines to make a donation to MacMillan and have a drive of one! This is a real favourite with the children (and a few parents as well).

To run an event of this size takes a lot of organization and manpower and this is provided by a committee of local volunteers including the original team who started the event back in 1995.

There is also a stalwart team of volunteers from all walks of life, who assist in various roles, during the two days of the rally and in the week leading up to it, which ensure the event will continue to be a success and raise even more, much needed funds for MacMillan.

Even though it has moved to Codicote, the event is very much a Whitwell affair and despite the geographical change still remains the Whitwell Steam and County Fair!

The Fair opens from 10am till late on the 19th and 20th May, for further information contact Robbie Bonfield on 07773 219388, Robandpenny@Zen.co.uk or visit www.whitwellsteam.com May 2012

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

17

community focus

The Welwyn Anglo-French Twinning Association

I

f you ever wondered what the ‘Champagne-sur-Oise’ name on the Welwyn village signs was all about well now’s your chance to find out!

Welwyn linked with this small village near Paris in 1973 and the link continues to flourish to this day.

The main similarity between the two villages is their geographical position from their respective capitals:Welwyn is 25 miles (40km) north of London and Champagne-sur-Oise is the same distance north of Paris. Just as Welwyn is close to the A1(M) and to the main railway line into London, Champagne has nearby motorway links to Paris and Calais (A16) and a rail service to Paris.

Nigel Jeffery, Chair of the Association, told us, “Every two years up to 50 folk from Welwyn and other nearby villages travel to the twinning village for a long week-end of fun and entertainment, and in alternate years the hospitality is reciprocated.This year at the end of May we are looking forward to hosting our French friends.We plan on taking them to the Olympic Park (just to rub in the fact that Paris missed out!) and also

to Bletchley Park to see Colossus. In between we will have a Gala Dinner with entertainment in the Woolmer Green hall.

During the year we put on a number of fund raising events including a popular quiz usually in January and a wine tasting evening or two.We also have some informal conversational French lessons running and started a Boules Challenge a few years back playing against other local twinning associations – great idea but we’ve yet to win!”

The Association always welcomes new members and is really keen to develop links between special interest groups in the two areas.These could involve sports, dance, drama etc (they have even seen keen bridge players link up). So if you’re involved in something and think it worthwhile forming a special link, they will try and arrange it for you.

Membership is just a nominal £5 a year (£10 for a couple or family) but they’re currently offering the first year at no cost, so you can try it out for free!

There’s also absolutely no need to speak French – most members don’t but they all get by somehow!

If you may be interested in any of the above, or in getting involved in this year’s or future Twinning Weekends, please contact Nigel Jeffery on 01438 813433 or at nigel.jeffery@welwyntwinning.org. Alternatively you can visit www.welwyntwinning.org for further details including planned events.

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

May 2012

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business

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The business was founded in 2010 by Matt Butcher, who had previously worked for BMW. He has extensive experience of working with Audi, Renault, Chrysler, Jeep, Vauxhall and Mercedes.

Matt identified a gap in the market that he was able to fill through his expertise and knowledge, which leveraged his relationship with a wide range of different motor dealers. It also gave him the ability to find people who were looking to purchase a new vehicle and make sure it was the best deal they could get.

Many consumers find purchasing a vehicle to be an extremely stressful process, and often find that later they have paid too much for their car. Locally based in Whitwell, Matt can arrange a meeting at your home or office to discuss your exact requirements, arrange finance too if required and get the exact car for a better price.

Customers can expect a First Class, Hassle Free Service with Maximum Savings through Matt’s consultative approach which is always appreciated by his clients. He is not there to push people into purchasing the wrong vehicle and will do everything within his power to make sure you get exactly the right vehicle for you… And most importantly at the right price. “ If you’re looking for a new or used car then I would highly recommend speaking to Matt first as he has always managed to find the right car at the right price.”

“Thank you for the friendly and efficient service you provided.

From start to finish your hard work was greatly appreciated.The time and money you have personally saved me from sourcing and selling the existing car is the main reason I have told friends and business colleagues about your company”.

If you are looking for a new vehicle today, or would like further information, contact Matt on 01462 888 304, 07989 867 949 or visit www.ifindanycar.com

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 1 20 Airport Cars Direct HP 0111 2.indd Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

20/01/2011 10:09 May 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

Need a new car?

Let us find your dream car, we can also sell your car and arrange finance if required.

Is your business slowing down?

This space could be getting you new local customers for just ÂŁ50 per month.

Call Jose on 01438 216 950

A new way to buy a car that WILL save you time and money!

CALL NOW! 01462 888 304 07989 867 949 www.ifindanycar.com

May 2012

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

21

MJS Events The Wedding Disco Specialists

A safe pair of hands for your special day as your DJ and Master of Ceremonies “Jose was very professional and friendly and we came away from the pre-event meeting feeling completely confident our wedding would go well. On the day, Jose did a superb job!”

“I highly recommend MJS events for anyone needing a wedding DJ. Jose listened carefully to our requirements and delivered on all of our requests.”

Call Jose on 07734 387 478 mail@mjsevents.com www.mjsevents.com

VILLAGE LIFE

1/2 A5 advert_Layout 1 12/05/2011 16:14 Page 1

Looking for something a little different? newleaf marketing communications may just be what you are looking for newleaf marketing communications is a full service marketing consultancy.

We specialise in the design and print of promotional literature, branding and contract publishing. We also have a wealth of experience in managing media relations, online promotions, direct mail and photography.

At newleaf marketing communications we provide more than just creative skills but also the ability to listen, understand and solve complex issues quickly and efficiently.

For more information on how we can help your company call us today 01438 871968

W www.newleafmarcom.com E info@newleafmarcom.com T 01438 871968 Design

May 2012

Print

Media Planning

Contract Publishing

Branding

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

More than just great ideas...

23

VILLAGE LIFE

Guess what we’re having?

HALF PRICE SALE COME IN TO SEE THE SAVINGS YOU CAN MAKE S E L E C T E D I T E M S O N LY

Unit 136, Stevenage Indoor Market, St Georges Way, Stevenage SG1 1EP We are opposite the rear entrance to Wilkinsons

Tel/Fax: 01438 314263 Mobile: 07970 034579 email: sales@oaklandblinds.co.uk WHERE QUALITY MATTERS

Opening Hours: Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat, 9am - 5pm

why not visit our website: www.oaklandblinds.co.uk

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

24

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

May 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

Are you a local

Dog Groomer looking for more business?

Village Life is looking for a reliable Dog Groomer to advertise in the magazine.

If you would like to come on board and promote your company to 15,000 readers each month, we will offer low advertising rates.

Contact Melanie on

01483 216 950 Your Local 24 Hour Emergency Locksmith Call Out Service

HITCHIN’S FIRST DEDICATED PILATES CENTRE...

Improve your fitness, core stability and work on your posture at our friendly, fully equipped new studio. Intro courses, small group matwork classes and 1 : 1 private reformer machine training.

10% OFF PERSONAL TRAINING* BOOK ONLINE AND ENTER PROMO CODE VLPT12

www.thepilatespod.co.uk

• Lock Opening & Lock Fitting • All types of Locks • Repairs, Servicing & Replacement Locks • Vehicle Opening • Domestic & Commercial Services • Fully Accredited & Approved Emergency Locksmith

Fast, competitive & reliable service Call Mark on 01462 759557 or visit www.anylock-security.co.uk

01462 338002 107 Bancroft, Hitchin. SG5 1NB *On a single PT pass. 1 discount per client

May 2012

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

25

VILLAGE LIFE

Do you or does someone you know need some Extra Help?

Our services include: • Meal preparation • Shopping & errands • Ironing • Escorts (Bingo, hospital etc) • Regular or one-off services • Dog walking • Senior sitting

From £10 per hour

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

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

SHIRON Tel 0845 219 8978 extra help www.extra-help.co.uk

a helping hand

DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

Tel: 01438 720304

Mobile: 07739 922493

Secretarial Services on your doorstep

Shiron Domestic QP 0310.indd 1

25/02/2010 12:34

40 years experience as a PA/Secretary providing a wide range of secretarial services, including:• Typing – anything from a letter to a thesis or manuscript • Excel spreadsheets • Powerpoint presentations • Mailshot labels • Invoicing for small businesses Also available to teach basic Microsoft Word, Excel and general Internet navigation.

No job too small – Competitive Rates – Available Evenings and Weekends

Please call Shelley – 07899 906616 26

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

May 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

FENCING SN MAINTENANCE

Specialists in Annual Boiler/Central Heating Services Plumbing and Heating Requirements Boiler & Heating Installations Boiler Upgrades Power Flushing Pumps, Radiators & Valves Hot & Cold Water Tanks

All Your Fencing Needs Supplied & Fitted Free Estimates Council Approved Hedge Cutting Garden Maintenance Friendly & Reliable Service

All Plumbing & Heating work undertaken For a free no obligation quote contact 01438 712712 www.staggproperty.co.uk info@staggproperty.co.uk

Call Simon on 07971 860 135 / 01707 326 366

Need help with your PC?

Village Tree Services

SN Fencing 0311.indd 1

16/02/2011 09:18

Village Tree Services

 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

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





Call now on: 01438 833 671 spectrum IT support Solving your IT problems

info@spectrumITsupport.co.uk www.spectrumITsupport.co.uk May 2012



Tel: 01462 435 873 Tel: 01462 435 873 Mobile: 07717 744274 Mob: 07717 744 274

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

27

what’s on

What’s on in MAY...

Tues 8th May, 7.30pm RNLI Concert at St. Mary’s Church, Hitchin

Take a Break…

CROSSWORD

Brigham Young University Singers in aid of the RNLI. Tickets from H.T.C.I office – 27 Churchyard, Hitchin.

Thu 10 May 2012, 8pm - 10.30pm Old Time Musical Hall, Thalian Hall, W.G.C, AL7 4SQ Fish & Chip supper and licensed bar. Prizes for the best outfits. Book early, call 01707 333318 or 07836 763949.

Sat 12 May 2012, 7.30pm Charity Variety Show, Hawthorne Theatre, Campus West, W.G.C, AL8 6BX In aid of Isabel Hospice. Welwyn Harmony Chorus presents Showtime.

Several exciting acts to perform for your delight! Tickets £15.

Sun 13th May 12-6pm Ashwell at Home Open Gardens, Exhibitions, Veteran cycles, Stalls & Sideshows, Morris Men, Funfair, Car Boot Sale, Lunches & Teas and much more. Entry by programme: £5 adults (children free) – available on the day. Free car park.

Call 01462 712455 to book a space at Car Boot.

Wed 16th May The Italian Circle of Mid-Herts, W.G.C. Golf Club, Mannicotts, Off High Oaks Road, W.G.C.AL8 7BP “Tickle Your Tastebuds - Modern & Historical Italian Recipes”.

An illustrated talk by Gillian Riley. For further info call 01707 372264 or 01438 715277. Non-members £5 per visit. Free Parking.

Fri 18th May, 7.30pm Friday RNLI Fundraising Quiz Night, Paynes Park Social Club, Hitchin, SG5 1EH With Fish & Chip Supper, Tickets £10 from Tony Freeman, 01462 434867 or freeman9pt@btinternet.com.

Fri 18th May, 6.30pm Ghost Tour and Bat Walk, Knebworth House A tour and talk of ghosts at Knebworth House followed by a walk in the gardens to see the bats if they are flying. Tickets £20.50, 01438 812661.

ACROSS 7. Fire hardened clay (7) 9. Sound (5) 10. Free choice (3) 11. Light metal (9) 12. Emblem (5) 14. Fit of temper (7) 16. Aged (7) 18. Helper (5) 19. In disguise (9) 20. Anger (3) 21. Metal turners tool (5) 22. Aural pain (7)

DOWN 1. Word game (8) 2. Land force (4) 3. Pierce (6) 4. Of India (6) 5. - - - -Atwell Jazz pianist (8) 6. Light shaft (4) 8. Rural environment (11) 13. Commit completely (8) 15. Killed (8) 17. In tatters (6) 18. On a a ship, train etc (6) 19. In standby mode (4) 20. One twelfth of a foot (4)

SUDOKU

Sat 19th & Sun 20th May, 10am - 4pm Letchworth Food and Garden Festival, Letchworth Town Centre Over 30 stalls with the best produce from the region, chefs cooking up inspirational meals at two demo kitchens. (Dean Edwards from ITV, Phil Thompson from Auberge du Lac). Fun for all the family, Display gardens – how to grow your own fruit and veg. Entrance is free.

Sat 2nd & Sun 3rd June, 8.30am - 5.30pm Hertfordshire County Show, The Showground, Dunstable Rd, Redbourn, AL3 7PT Show jumping, Showing Livestock, Competitions, Parades. Grand Ring Attractions include Chariots of Fire Display Team, Mounted Games Association, The Shetland Pony Dinky Derby, Devil’s Horsemen, All Human Circus, Flight Simulator, Climbing Wall Punch and Judy and much more – www.hertsshow.com, 01582 792626.

GET YOUR EVENT LISTED FOR FREE HERE, EMAIL: mail@villagelifemag.com or call us on 01438 216 950 28

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

May 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

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

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

127 High Street, Kimpton, Herts, SG4 8QN

Hill House, 1 St Albans Rd, Codicote, Herts, SG4

Rabley Tree Care Rabley Tree Care Rabley Tree Care

All Aspects of Tree and Hedge Work Undertaken Garden Maintenance Fully Qualified and Insured Call Duncan Evans on 07759 804 035 for quotes or advice

May 2012

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory p 29

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

SHOWCASE

To The Roof

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...

01462 811 150 07595 985 025 www.totherooftvaerials.co.uk

Domestic and Commercial All frames and Seals cleaned as standard Fully insured cghcleaning@gmail.com

Want to kick your computer?

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

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

Advertise here

BRIDGE COTTAGE PHARMACY Codicote Online 0610.indd

Michael Shelley

Electrical

Qualified Electrician

41 High Street, Welwyn, AL6 9EF

“No job too small”

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

Tel: 01438 820 820

Mobile: 07930 243651 Email: michael.shelley@live.co.uk

01438 840240

A member of ElecSa

Peony Florist Specialising in wedding flowers, beautiful, stylish flowers tailored to suit the bride, her dress and the wedding venue. For a free consultation call Lotty.

Telephone: 01438 821 888 121 high Street, Codicote www.peonyflorist.co.uk

CODICOTE PHARMACY 123 HIGH ST, CODICOTE, SG4 8UB 01438 821418

Videos/Camcorder Tapes Copied To DVDs £4.99 Per Hour. All Camcorder Tapes inc. Large VHS. Also Slides/Audio Cass To CDs. 01438 217132 / 07906 046019 Or bring to 5 Hornbeam Spring, Knebworth / Rainbow Dry Cleaners, High St, Knebworth

GOT YOU How can you not invest £20pm HERE to reach out to YOUR new customers?

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT PHARMACY

1

10/05/2010 18:41

TO 15000 LOCAL CUSTOMERS FROM JUST £20pm!

CALL 01438 216950 Terms and conditions apply.

Knebworth Transfer Media

You have read this ad too!

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

30

COMPUTER PROBLEMS

CALL 01432 216950 Terms and conditions apply.

A friendly, all-round service to maintain and enhance your business processes, taking away stress and hassle, freeing up time to focus on your business.

Call Sandra on 01707 229872 www.click4bookkeeping.com

Are you a reliable Private Tutor?

Could you handle more enquiries?

This space could be yours for just £20 a month.

Call Melanie on 01438 216950

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

May 2012

Create your own Unique Space Energy Rated Glazing. Fully Installed Solar PV Systems.

• Conservatories • Orangeries • Sunrooms • Porches • Composite Entrance Doors • Bi-Folding Doors • Energy Rated Glazing • Garage Conversions • Solar PV Systems Fully Installed • Guaranteed Income for 25 years • Index Linked and TAX FREE

Beat Spiralling Energy Prices and help the environment by creating your own Electricity

With our SOLAR PV SYSTEM typical customers are earning £700 - £1400 each year, and are saving from reduced electricity bills. Plus they receive an additional income by selling any surplus electricity they generate.

Your specialist local company, who build with care and dedication from design to completion

CALL 0800 0751779

Visit our online showroom at www.conservatech.co.uk

QUALITY HOME IMPROVEMENTS

01438 728485 • 01992 462372 Try our FREE online quoter

Abandon your creams, wax and razors...

... Long Term Laser Hair Removal - now at Pinehill Hospital •

Special introductory offer for full course of 6 treatments

•

FREE initial consultation without any obligation to go ahead

•

Treatment in your local Private Hospital in a clinical setting. Registered with and audited by the CQC (Care Quality Commission)

•

Laser Nurse Specialist is a fully registered nurse

•

Relaxed and professional environment

•

Proven success

•

One of our most experience Cosmetic Surgeon, Mr Schreuder is backing the service

Call now to book your FREE initial consultation:

01462 427221/427216

www.pinehillhospital.co.uk Benslow Lane, Hitchin, SG4 9QZ