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News / What’s On / Local Directory
sue 76 : Is
FREE I Dunstable I Studham I Kensworth I Whipsnade
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For For more more information information visit visit www.nulookroof www.nulookroof Issue 76 • April / May 2017
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Inside this issue... 6
Revitalising Dunstable
Editor: Scott Nightingale
8 Keech Hospice Care
Advertising & Editorial: Shelly Nesbitt Tel: 01525 222379 / 07852 453043 Email: info@thevinemagazine.co.uk
12 Spring At Luton Hoo
Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the content of advertising and articles published in this magazine are accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors. Neither do they reflect the opinion of this publication. The Vine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission.
18 Martin Lewis: Holiday Bookings 24
Health & Beauty: Teen Skin
28 Body Change 4U Competition 32 Autos: Honda Civic 34 Looking Up 36 Puzzles 38 Snippets 42 In The Garden: Lawns 44 A Pensioners View 48 Out & About
Copy deadline for next issue:
May 18th
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Issue 76 • April / May 2017
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Dunstable Town Council and Central Bedfordshire Council will be funding a number of other improvements in the town: • A kids’ splash park in Bennett Memorial Recreation Ground near to the existing sports pavilion, as well as a new cafeteria and new community park space. • Improved town signage and benches will be installed after the A5 Woodside Link Road is open. The signs will promote the heritage of the town more effectively, as well as new leisure facilities such as the Grove Skate Park and the splash park.
Revitalising Dunstable Dunstable set to get new splash park with £1.25million boost from Council A kids’ splash park and money to help restore the historic Priory House are amongst eight initiatives to benefit from £1.25million worth of co-funding given by Central Bedfordshire Council and Dunstable Town Council to help rejuvenate the town centre. Dunstable Town Council has already used some of the funding to purchase new street cleansing machines operated by their Town Rangers. Architectural lighting has already been installed on Dunstable Conference Centre, Priory House, and Grove House, while new entrance features for Priory Gardens are now in use. These will help to restore the traditional character of Dunstable as a historic market town. Images show 3D artists impressions of the new splash park currently under construction on Bennetts Rec. in Dunstable. www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
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• Money will be spent investigating the feasibility of restoring the historic Priory House building’s undercroft. The Market Town Re generation Fund could help lever up to £500,000 from Historic England and provide the town council with a £750,000 restoration budget. This follows a £1.25million investment in this Grade II listed building over the last 10 years. The money is part of £4million that was set aside by Central Bedfordshire Council for its Market Town Regeneration Fund. The money is from the Council’s own capital budget, and aims to boost the vibrancy of market towns and promote their role in shaping and supporting economic growth, particularly those towns which are facing population pressures. Overall the funding is subsidising more than 30 projects across seven towns.
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local News
Top1
Keech Hospice
Makes The Sunday Times
Top 100 Employers
Liz Searle and Clive Medlam being presented with the award (left) Staff at Keech Hospice Care (Above)
Keech Hospice Care, which supports children and adults with life limiting and terminal illnesses, is now recognised as one of the best not-for-profit employers in the UK. The prestigious awards, which are organised by The Sunday Times, identify the best companies and charities to work for across the UK – based on feedback from their staff. 250,000 staff working for over 1,000 employers completed anonymous surveys giving their opinions about their bosses, their working conditions and their employer’s values. Liz Searle, Chief Executive of Keech Hospice Care, attended the awards ceremony in London on Wednesday 22 February. “I am absolutely delighted that the staff we employ at Keech Hospice Care should rate us so highly,” said Liz. “This is the first time that the
8
hospice has been honoured in the Top 100 not-for-profit employers awards and we are proud to represent the hospice sector in this year’s results,” she said. “Keech Hospice Care values its amazing staff, and of course our volunteers, we have an outstanding team in every area. They all play a crucial role in making the organisation a success. We are committed to providing excellent care to patients, children and their families and making a difference at the time in their lives when they need it the most” “The staff survey shows that we have further improved in all areas including personal development, wellbeing and leadership. It’s a fantastic position to be in and it’s an amazing start to our journey in turning our good organisation into a truly great organisation,” said Liz.
www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
Keech 10k
Trail Run Is Back! Sunday 14th May 11:00 - 13:00 Putteridge Bury, Hitchin Road, Luton. LU2 8LE
Want to take on a challenge? Why not take on the Keech 10K Trail and help them raise vital fund for the local charity? The route will take you through the historic Putteridge Bury estate, emerging out into the picturesque Chiltern Hills. This is a challenging, but beautiful route. Light refreshments will be available at Putteridge Bury both before and after the event. Keech Hospice Care would like to welcome Dunstable Road Runners as their official partner again for this event and to thank Putteridge Bury for their beautiful grounds. By taking part in this event, you will be helping to raise vital funds in order to help Keech support people living with life limiting or terminal illnesses in Hertfordshire, Milton Keynes, Luton & South Bedfordshire. Keech Hospice Care only receives 30% statutory funding, so there has never been a time when your support is needed more. *This event is not suitable for runners under the age of 16.
Find out how to take part at www.keech.org.uk
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Issue 76 • April / May 2017
9
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE INVOLVED IN THE RUNNING OF OUR ACADEMY? A C A D E M Y
Ardley Hill
www.ardleyhill.org.uk
We currently have a vacancy for a Governor. If you are
please register your interest on WOULD YOUinterested LIKE(even TOa little BEbit!) INVOLVED IN THE ardley.hill@ardleyhill.org.uk or 01582 667955 by the 24 RUNNING March. OF OUR ACADEMY? th
We currently have a vacancy a Governor. We willfor then arrange a chat to explain what the role involves If you are interested (even a little bit!)decide pleaseif register your so that you can you would likeinterest to take on: the next step.
ardley.hill@ardleyhill.org.ukJonathan or 01582 Smith 667955 – Headteacher
We will then arrange a chat to explain what the role involves so that you can Vicky Deller – Chair of Governors decide if you would like to take the next step. Jonathan Smith – Headteacher Vicky Deller – Chair of Governors Lowther Road Dunstable Bedfordshire LU6 3NZ
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Spring Has Sprung At Luton Hoo Estate Walled Garden
A Brief Histor y
The Walled Garden at Luton Hoo Estate was designed by Capability Brown in the late 1760’s for John Stuart, 3rd Earl of Bute, noted botanist and prime minister under George III.. As with many great estates, by the late 1980’s the garden stood dilapidated, overgrown and neglected. Today, the garden is being run by the Estate Management team and a dedicated team of volunteers, who are involved in a range of activities aimed at restoring and preserving the history of the garden. The site comprises a five acre garden, surrounded by the original 18th Century octagonal wall, and a range of glass houses, and selection of rare service buildings. It has been estimated that £10 million needs to be raised to fully restore the garden and its structures.
A word from the volunteers
Before
Spring has sprung at the Luton Hoo Estate Walled Garden and we start the season with a Spring Open Day and Plant Heritage Fair on Saturday 22nd April from 11am - 3pm. Entrance is just £3 (under 5 years old free) and tours of the garden can also be taken for an extra £2. Free children’s activities will be on offer and tea, coffee and cake can be purchased as well as those all important plants. The Tours really give an insight into this volunteer led garden revival and our emphasis this year is looking at the progress made since the beginning of the project in 2001. Research was carried out initially and the gardening did not start until 2007. Look at the two photographs to see the difference ten years has made. The garden is constantly evolving and this winter our gardeners and conservationists have spent many hours removing the plastic sheeting from the greenhouses. Our Open Wednesdays begin on May 3rd from 10.30am - 4pm until the end of September. This is an opportunity to show our progress to visitors when our volunteers are at work. A £5 entry fee includes a guided tour of the garden and in addition a tour of the Victorian farm buildings will be available. Produce from the garden, including plants and Luton Hoo honey, will be on sale. Refreshments will be available from our cafe in the Shooting Lodge which is accessed via a new woodland walk. We can arrange a talk and tour for groups on Wednesdays and also at your own venue - take a look at our website www.lutonhooestate.co.uk for list of topics. Look forward to seeing you. We have a large car park that can accommodate coaches. For more information email office@lutonhooestate.co.uk or phone 01582 721443. Don’t forget... access is via the A1081 between Luton and Harpenden West Hyde Rd/Newmill End turning LU1 4LE not via the hotel.
12 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
Issue 76 • April / May 2017 13
local News
THE VILLAGE SHOP IVINGHOE At Pitsone Museum?!! Napoleon once called us a nation of shopkeepers, he was probably right but if you think about it, when did shops first appear? Originally, the main form of retail outlet would have been the market stall. Modern society seems to think that farmers markets are the latest thing but in fact they were the origin of shopping. Farmers and artisans making everything from barrels to baskets, would have met at a fixed time, in what became the market square, to hawk their produce. It wasn’t until the late 1500s that fixed, permanent buildings started to be used as what we now know as shops. The word shop seems to be derived from old European terms meaning a booth, lean to, or place of work or trade. By the late 1600s there were over 40,000 shops in Britain. Sometime in the mid 1800s a shop was opened in the high street in Ivinghoe, opposite the church, round the corner from The Kings Head. The Elliott family ran this shop until sometime around 2000, when it finally closed to the public. Rosemary Elliott, the lady known to everyone as Jane, continued to occupy the premises until sadly, in 2016 she died. When sorting out her effects, a note was discovered, asking that the remaining contents and the fixtures and fittings of the old shop should be preserved at Pitstone Museum for future generations to appreciate. To these ends, the volunteers at the museum have stripped out the interior, carefully photographed and measured everything, inside and out and have started to build a replica of the old shop on the site of The Museum at the old farm at Pitstone Green. We are a bit short of suitable space, but have found a site that should do justice to this wonderful, unique piece of local history. The project will take a while but in the meantime, pop along to the museum on one of our open days, (Bank Holiday Mondays and the 2nd Sunday of each month from June to October) to see how we are getting on with this and many other projects we have in hand. If anyone has any photos, articles, objects or anecdotes relating to the old shop please drop them in on an open day or a Tuesday or Thursday when the volunteers are on site. Pitstone Green Museum opens again on Easter Monday and is then open on Bank Holiday Mondays and the second Sunday of each month from June until October. If you would like to arrange a visit at some other time or would like to get involved in any way, get in contact via the website.
www.pitstonemuseum.co.uk
14 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
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www.the50plus.co.uk Issue 76 • April / May 2017 15
local News
Did you know that in 2017 the Leighton Buzzard Railway celebrates its 50th Birthday? It was half a century ago that the volunteer – run society was formed to take over the near-derelict sand quarry railway which has now been transformed into one of England’s leading narrow gauge working museums. LET’S PARTY! Special events are scheduled throughout the year in addition to the regular favourites which should ensure that there is something happening to suit all tastes. The new station at Page’s Park (which has the best selection of Thomas products for miles around!) will be running family fun events and the guided tours will let you get up close and personal to the locomotive collection. The stopover at Stonehenge works at the far end of the line has been extended this year to give you more time to enjoy the craft shop. This is where you will find light refreshments and friendly crafters. There is a wide range of items available from jewellery and bags to toys, cushions, pictures, decorated glass and knitted items. So you are sure to find that unique gift either for yourself or the person “who has everything”!
So what are you waiting for? Tickets can be purchased at Page’s Park or fee-free online at www.buzzrail.co.uk. Come and help us celebrate – we’d be chuffed to see you!
16 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
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Broken Or Damaged Windows? Faulty Locks, Handles, Hinges? Issue 76 • April / May 2017 17
Money Matters By Martin Lewis
Holiday Bookings
@moneysavingexpert
With summer on the way, this is the peak holiday booking period. However, with the pound recently at a 32 year low against the dollar, and matching the awful rates of 2013 against the euro, this year it’s likely to be a challenge to get a decent price. The weak pound not only hits holiday spending, but hotels, car hire and more, so here are my 10 top tips for keeping costs down.
1 Pocket The Perfect Plastic To Make The Pound Perform. Spend abroad and most credit cards add a 3% ‘non-sterling transaction fee’ which means £100 of euros costs £103 and some then load other charges on top. However, there are a range of specialist cards that don't add that fee. So, you get that day’s same near-perfect rate that the banks do, in every country. My top two long term picks, as well as good exchange rates, have low cash fees - the www.creation.co.uk Everyday card and www.halifax.co.uk Clarity. Spending on these is super cheap, usually easily smashing the best bureau de change rates. Yet only do this if you’ll repay the card IN FULL each month, to avoid the 18.9% ish representative APR. It’s worth noting if instead of spending on the card you withdraw foreign cash and spend that, you will pay interest even if you clear in full, but even with that added they’re still not that costly. For full info on top cards, and an eligibility calculator so you can see which you’re most likely to be accepted for go to www.mse.me/payabroad.
can be £40 a day when you get there. Here’s the three key steps:
2 One Hotel Room Can Have Hundreds Of Prices. Once you know what hotel you want, always check to see if it’s being sold cheaper elsewhere, use comparison sites www.trivag o.co.uk and www.travelsupermarket.com for a wide-ranging search (and always call the hotel to see if it'll beat the price). The difference can be £100s.
4 Find Best Holiday Cash In Seconds. Just use my www.travelmoneymax.com site which compares 30 online bureaux to find which gives you the best rates in seconds, factoring all fees.
3 With Car Hire Book It Early And Buy Insurance Elsewhere. If hiring abroad, generally early booking is cheaper, what costs £10 a day now
18 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
a) Do a comparison to find your cheapest. I’d try www.kayak.co.uk, www.carrentals.co.uk and if needed www.skyscanner.net too. b) Check stealth fuel charges. Some try and make you pay for a full tank and return it empty - adding £80ish if you don't drive far. The above, apart from Kayak, let you filter by fuel policy. c) Don’t fall for their insurance up-sell. When you pick up a car they’ll often try and fear sell you up to £25/ day insurance on top – to cover the large excess if you have any claims. If you’ll pay for this, instead use excess insurance comparison site www.moneymaxim.co.uk before you go and you can often find a policy from £2 a day. Yet if you do this, or don’t get the insurance, the car hire firm will ask you to leave a deposit on a credit (not debit) card which can be €1,000+.
5 Speedily Find The Cheapest Flights. The obvious start point again are comparison sites. My top picks are www.skyscanner.net, www.kayak.co.uk and www.momondo.co.uk which include most airlines and booking sites like Expedia and ebookers. Yet if you really want to slash flight costs, you need to get
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www.zebra-properties.co.uk Issue 76 • April / May 2017 19
Money Matters
By Martin Lewis
clever, such as using ethnic specialist travel agents and checking out airline code sharing deals. For full help see www.mse.me/cheapflights. 6 Don’t Forget The Good Old Fashion Package Holiday. Package holidays are where you usually get flights, hotels and transfers in one. They can still be the cheapest especially if you’re going away for 7, 10 or 14 days in a traditional holiday destination like Benidorm. Both www.travelsuper market.com and www.icelolly.com have comparison sites. Then once you’ve got up a price, if you want to shave a little off, you can call up other agents to see if they’ll sell you the same holiday at a cheaper price. 7 Book Travel Insurance As Soon As You Book The Holiday. Every year people email me saying something sadly akin to, “I’m due on holiday in a few months, but I’ve just been given a cancer diagnosis and can’t go, the airline won’t let me cancel, what can I do?” The answer is 'that’s what travel insurance is for'. Yet many people only book it just before they go. Waiting defeats half the point of having the cover – which is to protect you in the event cancellation is needed due to illness, a death in the family or something else. Full help on the cheapest policies, including for over 65’s in www.mse.me/travelinsurance.
20 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
8 Booked Easyjet – Keep Checking The Price. If your EasyJet price drops after you've booked it – excluding in a sale – you can just call it up to ask for the difference back in vouchers. Jo emailed: "We got an £803 voucher... all thanks to you." 9 Check If Your European Health Insurance Card (Ehic) Is Still Valid. The free EHIC means if you’re in an EU (and a few others) country you can use a state GP or hospital for the same price as a local, so if it’s free for them, it's free for you. It’s valuable extra protection (alongside travel insurance). Yet it’s not valid for millions, this is nothing to do with Brexit, but simply that it has a valid until date and 5.3 million expired in the last year. Check yours, if it is, go to www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/EHIC to get a new one for FREE (don’t Google this, you’ll find shyster sites trying to charge you to do it who add nothing to the process). 10 Be Careful Boozing On Holiday. A final thought. If you’re going to drink on holiday (and let’s be honest, for many people that’s half what it’s about), remember this may invalidate your travel insurance claim. So, take it easy, and if you won’t take it easy, at least think about what belongings you’re taking with you!
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www.andertonelectrics.co.uk 22 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
Issue 76 • April / May 2017 23
Health Beauty
Teen Skin
Wellbeing
Beat blemishes, control oil and start good skincare habits for life!
I often get the same question from my clients’ in-salon, “My son/daughter is suffering terribly with their skin at the moment, can you help?” As if going through puberty isn’t bad enough the added anxiety of dealing with problem skin can have your teen going around in circles. For such an important and sensitive topic (and with school proms just a few months away) here are my top tips for dealing with teenage skin issues. Your teens can be challenging years for skin. Puberty causes your body to increase its production of sebum (oil secreted by your sebaceous glands), leading to blocked pores and spots. But making the effort to understand your skin and getting a good skincare routine put in place can make all the difference, and sets you up well for the coming decades. Skin needs to be cleansed effectively both morning and night and it is important to know what types of products to use and those to avoid. I don’t recommend using soap on your skin, most soaps are alkaline in nature and the skin is more acidic. The soap will strip your skin’s natural oil protection leaving it open to bacteria getting in and moisture loss, this will force your skin to produce more oil to try to protect itself. You can see how this can begin a vicious circle and your skin gets more damaged as a result. Another no-go for me are face wipes – they frequently contain lots of chemical ingredients and they don’t give a deep clean, often leaving a residue on the skin which can clog pores and contribute to breakouts. Unfortunately, products for teens often contain harsh, inexpensive ingredients such as soap, sulphates, mineral oils, artificial colour, fragrances and alcohol, all of which can irritate and aggravate already troubled skin causing even more problems! So, what should you be looking for? There are some fantastic face washes and cleansers that are sulphate-free which means they will not irritate the skin further. Look out for ingredients such as witch hazel or salicylic acid, which helps to clear the build-up of dead skin cells that
24 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
&
block pores and helps to minimise breakouts. Tea tree oil is a fantastic antiseptic that also kills bacteria whilst healing and soothing the skin; you can often find this in cleansers and moisturisers. Charcoal is great for soaking up excess oil and working as a light exfoliator, leaving skin literally squeaky clean. You want to be looking for products that help control oil, unclog pores, clean without stripping moisture (and moisturise without adding grease), and help to treat and prevent breakouts. Simple, right?! Breakouts are the number one skin concern among teens. If you have acne, never try to dry your skin out, as it will naturally start to produce more oil, making acne feel painful and look worse. Instead, hydrate the skin by using products that remove the oil but don’t take away the moisture of the skin. Also, avoid tanning in all its forms, much of our lifetime accumulation of UV occurs in our early teen years when we think we are indestructible and take our good skin for granted. Those supersatisfying pore strips are also a no-go, as they can lead to enlarged pores. Yes, it is a minefield out there but help is at hand, seek out professional advice, whether that be your GP, dermatologist or skin therapist. We are here to help and with some great advice and teamwork we really can help your teen to overcome the struggle and be on their way to healthier and happier skin. By Kelly Shaw
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Can You Outrun The Easter Bunny? By Haydon Littlewood, Personal trainer, www.bodychange4u.co.uk
As a personal trainer my advice is simple Remember to lead a healthy balanced lifestyle. Nothing should be off limits but understanding what different foods offer us in relation to nutrition is the key. Understanding food and what it provides our bodies with helps us to make better choices. With Easter fast approaching there will be plenty of temptations all around us in the shape of cute chocolate bunnies and eggs, but have you thought about how much exercise it would take to burn off that dinky crème egg? Or Lindt chocolate bunny?
A standard Cadbury Crème egg (40g) has 177kcal & 26.5g sugar*. What does this mean in relation to our bodies burning it off ? One egg has the equivalent of five teaspoons of sugar per egg (that means 66% of the crème egg is sugar). The average woman would need to run up the stairs for 19 minutes to burn off a single crème egg^. For most people a crème egg will be gone in two or three bites, is it really worth 19 minutes of running up the stairs?? A Lindt chocolate bunny (105g) has a whopping 550kcal and 55g of sugar*, you would need to complete 40 minutes of indoor cycling to burn off this cute little bunny! ^ I can help guide you through the nutritional minefield and steer you in the right direction by providing nutritional advice and personal training. For more information visit my website www.bodychange4u.co.uk facts taken from: *www.cadbury.co.uk and www.lindt.co.uk ^www.healthstatus.com and www.livestrong.com
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Issue 76 • April / May 2017 31
563
AUTO-BIOGRAPHIES New 2017 Honda Civic
By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist -@carwriteups
Location: Barcelona
it’s being made with no specific changes for regions, other than the obvious adaptations for left and right-hand drive markets.
auto Biographies
Topping the features of the new Civic is Honda’s ‘Connect’ Tim Barnes-Clay infotainment unit, which isBy companionable with Android Auto and Apple Car Play operating systems. The other headliner, in @carwriteups terms of kit, is Honda’s safety technology bundle, known as ‘Sensing’. It merges several bits of tech to keep you safe and sound. Features include lane keeping assistant, forward collision warning adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition.
• Price: £22,470
Due to changes to the structure the Civic,Sport) the ‘Magic Seats’ (1.5 182PS i-VTECofTurbo that made for simple loading of big objects are now absent. • Max speed: 136 mph Despite this, the boot still holds a notable 478-litres, so it is by no means•an issue. mph: 8.2 secs 0-62
Combined mpg: 48.7 Honda has• announced the price-tag of its up-to-date Civic, and it will start from £18,335 increasing to £27,295, depending on • Engine layout: 1498cc which trim level you want. 4-cylinder turbo petrol
New 2017
HONDA Civic
T
The Honda Civic has been around forever. It’s one of those Japanese brands that has never faded away or changed into anything else, and it’s remarkable to think it’s been on our roads since 1972.
The all-new Honda Civic is a great effort from the Japanese Max. power (PS): 182 with hardcore firm, and •brings it right into serious competition rivals like •Ford’s Focus and VW’s Golf. The way the tenthCO2: 133 g/km generation Civic looks, feels, and goes means the opposition should be worried. Now we must wait for the diesel and the ultra-hot Type R to make their entrance.
joined to a CVT automatic gearbox, he Honda Civic has been The 2017 Civic is the 10th generation of the model, and Honda recommend trying yet the sixbringwe’d back the essence of a practical, around forever. It’sclaims oneit wanted of tobut entertaining vehiclespeed to drive. To do this, the firm has manual gearbox as spent it feels excelthose Japanese brands that time re-engineering this fresh Civic from top to toe. lent in the hand and gratifying to work has never faded away or changed The all-new Hondawith. Civic marks of two petrol It’s the alsointroduction to the Civic’s credit that into anything else, and it’sunits remark– a 1.0-litre three-cylinder ‘VTEC Turbo’ and a 1.5-litre it stays hushed and refined, regardless power plant. The 1.0-litre yields 129PS, and will able to think it’s been on four-cylinder our of1.5-litre the flashy undercurrent. do 55mpg, while the produces 182PS and 48mpg of fuel economy. roads since 1972. The design of the all-new Honda
he Honda Civic has been around forever. It’s one of those apanese brands that has never faded away or changed into Civic has changed. The exiting model The 2017 Civic is the 10th generation is rounder, but the new Civic like nything else, and it’s remarkable tois think it’s been on our of the model, and Honda claims it a compact saloon. It looks wider and merges several bits of tech to keep you wanted to bring back the essence of smoother around the nose area, and safe and sound. Features include lane oads since 1972. a practical, yet entertaining vehicle to the rear has an angular, level shape. In- keeping assistant, forward collision Undoubtedly, the tenth incarnation of the Civic is an improvement over the last model, handling well on the test route that we took it out on around Barcelona in Spain. And the new power units – of which we drove the 1.5-litre variant – are first-rate, with lots of keen delivery, although the 1.5 iVTEC Turbo Sport is not as potent as its athletic body suggests.
drive. To do this, the firm has spent side, thecan split-dash has been replaced The new ‘VTEC Turbo’ engine be joined to a CVT automatic time re-engineering this fresh Civicbut we’d recommend gearbox, tryingdesign the six-speed manual by a smarter – reminiscent gearbox as it feels excellent in the hand and gratifying to work from top to toe. of the lovely 90’s Honda dashboard with. It’s also to the Civic’s credit that it stays hushed and This is a nod to an age when refined, regardless layouts. of the flashy undercurrent. The all-new Honda Civic marks the the Japanese automaker made some of The design of the all-new Honda Civic has changed. The exiting introduction of two petrol units –a its the best cars. model is rounder, but new Civic is like a compact saloon. It 1.0-litre three-cylinder ‘VTEC Turbo’ looks wider and smoother around the nose area, and the rear has an angular, level shape. Inside, the split-dash has been and a 1.5-litre four-cylinder power The 2017 Honda Civic will be made replaced by a smarter design – reminiscent of the lovely 90’s plant. The 1.0-litre yields 129PS, in Swindon, a factory Honda and dashboard layouts. This is a nod to an agethat whenhas the turned Japanese automaker made some of itscars best cars. will do 55mpg, while the 1.5-litre out well-built for some time now. produces 182PS and 48mpgThe of 2017 fuelHonda Civic The will abe constructing willBritish be made plant in Swindon, factory that economy. has turned out well-built cars for not somejust time for now.the The British the model UK, but for plant will be constructing the model not just for the UK, but for the whole world. This is the inaugural the whole world. This is the inaugural ‘global’ Civic, meaning Undoubtedly, the tenth incarnation of ‘global’ Civic, meaning it’s being made the Civic is an improvement over the with no specific changes for regions, last model, handling well on the test other than the obvious adaptations for route that we took it out on around left and right-hand drive markets. Barcelona in Spain. And the new Topping the features of the new Civic power units – of which we drove the is Honda’s ‘Connect’ infotainment 1.5-litre variant – are first-rate, with unit, which is companionable with lots of keen delivery, although the 1.5 Android Auto and Apple Car Play opi-VTEC Turbo Sport is not as potent erating systems. The other headliner, as its athletic body suggests. in terms of kit, is Honda’s safety techThe new ‘VTEC Turbo’ engine can be nology bundle, known as ‘Sensing’. It
PROS ‘N’ CONS • Attractive √ • Hi-tech √ warning adaptive cruise • Kit √ traffic sign recognition. • British-built √ • Divisive image X
control, and
he 2017 Civic is the 10th generation of the model, and Honda Due to changes to the structure of Civic, the ‘Magic Seats’ that made laims it wanted to bring back the essencethe aloading practical, yet forof simple of big objects are now absent. Despite this, the boot still ntertaining vehicle to drive. To do this, the has spent holds afirm notable 478-litres, so it is by no means an issue. ime re-engineering this fresh Civic from top toe. the price-tag Honda to has announced FAST FACTS (1.5 182PS i-VTEC Turbo Sport manual – as tested) • Max speed: 136 mph • 0-62 mph: 8.2 secs • Combined mpg: 48.7 • Engine layout: 1498cc 4-cylinder turbo petrol • Max. power (PS): 182 133 g/km Civic, and it will start of• itsCO2: up-to-date • Price: £22,470
from £18,335 increasing to £27,295, depending on which trim level you want.
he all-new Honda Civic marks the introduction of two petrol The all-new Honda Civic is a great efunits – a 1.0-litre three-cylinder ‘VTEC Turbo’ and a 1.5-litre fort from the Japanese firm, and brings it right into serious competition with our-cylinder power plant. The 1.0-litre yields 129PS, andand will hardcore rivals like Ford’s Focus VW’s Golf. The way the tenth-generado 55mpg, while the 1.5-litre produces 182PS andfeels,48mpg tion Civic looks, and goes meansof the opposition should be worried. Now we must wait for the uel economy. 32 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
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Issue 70 • April / May 2016 33
Looking Up! April & May 2017
Bedfordshire’s Night Sky
Discover Jupiter at its Brightest for 2017: On 7 April Jupiter is at its closest point to Earth for this year. Look to your south-east from 8:30pm onwards for a bright star-like object slowly rising off the horizon. As it climbs higher you’ll see that it is so much brighter than any of the stars in the sky. Jupiter remains a spectacular sight in the evenings throughout April and May. A telescope reveals Jupiter as a giant disc of light crossed by dark bands and flanked by four of its brightest moons. See an April Shower of Shooting Stars: The nights of 21 – 23 April see the peak of the Lyrids meteor shower. This year meteor forecasters are predicting it to be a major event with up to 40 bright meteors and maybe some fireballs whizzing across the sky in the couple of hours before daybreak on each morning. This is an all-sky event, so best option is to lie on the ground and look up! Take the Roman Eyesight Test: The seven stars of the Plough are a familiar sight when looking high up towards your north. Take a close look at the middle star in the plough handle. Do you see one star or two – a fainter one very close to the bright one? If you see two you’re doing well. The Romans used this pair of stars as an eyesight test for entry to the roman army! By Seb Jay Image Credit: Jupiter by NASA
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34 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
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Puzzles
Answers on page 62
Across 1. Hire-purchase (5-5) 7. Afterwards (5) 8. Lunacy (7) 10. Trustworthy (8) 11. Stupor (4) 13. Affront (6) 15. Guard (6) 17. Levy (4) 18. Ridicule (8) 21. Fight (7) 22. Wrong (5) 23. Defrayal (10)
9
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5
Down 1. Of birth (5) 2. Unstable (8) 3. Tousle (6) 4. Purposes (4) 5. Raise (7) 6. Unselfish (10) 9. Stability (10) 12. Devote (8) 14. Muteness (7) 16. Middle (6) 19. Fool (5) 20. Thrash (4)
2
8
6
1 4
6
1 9
9 2 8
7
2
8
5
3
9
7
4 6
GROSS
36 36
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Issue 76 • April / May 2017 37
Snippets By Paul Heley
John Bunyan
The Pilgrims Progr
I have long felt that the “powers that be” in Bedfordshire do not pay sufficient homage to, or give sufficient recognition to, one of our county’s predecessors who is known throughout the world - especially the Christian world - and whose most famous book “The Pilgrim’s Progress” is still in print almost 400 years after it was first written. It has been translated into more than 200 languages. When one drives into Warwickshire, one is greeted with “Welcome to Warwickshire, Shakespeare’s county” but when one drives into Bedfordshire, what do we get? Nothing! Let’s face it, Bedfordshire hasn’t got much going for it (other than Luton being voted the worst town in England!), and we haven’t sired many famous people, so why don’t we shout loud and clear that Bedfordshire is “Bunyan’s county”? John Bunyan was born in 1628 on the edge of the village of Elstow near the hamlet of Harrowden. As a boy, he received a very basic schooling, helped his father in the trade of tinker, and joined the Parliamentary army during the English Civil War at the age of sixteen. After his spell in the army, he returned to Elstow, married, and, like his father, also became a tinker. Influenced by his wife, he became a devout Puritan and preached in the towns and villages throughout Bedfordshire whilst also carrying on his trade. But, following the fall of Oliver Cromwell’s Republic and the subsequent Restoration of the Monarchy, he found himself in trouble for having extremist religious views.
38 38 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
ess - Or a map of
Bedfordshire?
Eventually, he was arrested at Lower Samsell near Westoning, tried, and sentenced to imprisonment in Bedford gaol. He could have been released after two or three months provided he agreed to “mend his ways”, but he refused to give up preaching and spent a total of twelve years in prison. It was during this time that he wrote his most famous book “The Pilgrim’s Progress”. He was finally released but still spent further, brief, periods in gaol for his beliefs. However, his later life was reasonably successful both as a writer and lecturer/preacher and he died in London in 1688. “The Pilgrim’s Progress” is an allegory and tells the story of how the central character, Christian, sets out from his home in the City of Destruction on an arduous journey along the Holy Way. Whilst on this path, he encounters both good, evil, and weak characters together with pleasant and horrific places. Each of the characters and places are fully described and Christian’s experiences are painted in graphic detail. The story is essentially a narrative of how difficult it is to be a Christian when beset with so many temptations which can woo the traveller from the straight and narrow path until eventually reaping the ultimate reward of reaching the Celestial City - namely Heaven. Although Bunyan was poorly schooled, he had a vivid imagination and a way with words and in “The Pilgrim’s Progress” he drew extensively upon his deep knowledge of the Bedfordshire
countryside gained from many years of preaching and travelling around the county selling bits and pieces and mending pots and pans. And it is possible - with greater or lesser certainty - to place notable features in the book with actual, recognisable, landmarks and places. Some of these places are unanimously accepted but others are subject to debate. For example, the City of Destruction (from where Christian sets out on his journey) is usually accepted as his home in Elstow or, perhaps, Bedford. But an alternative suggestion places it between Totternhoe and Dunstable!! Why on earth should Totternhoe have decided Bunyan (in the guise of Christian) to embark upon the road to salvation? Or was Dunstable such a wicked place in those days? Generating less argument is the Hill of Difficulty leading up to House Beautiful from where the Delectable Mountains can be seen. Most scholars accept these places to be the steep hill between Houghton Conquest and Ampthill at the top of which is the ruined Houghton House (which, in Bunyan’s day, would not have been a ruin but a very splendid building indeed) and from where one can look towards the Chiltern Hills (and Barton Hills in particular). Other recognisable places found in allegorical form in “Pilgrim’s Progress” are such as the “Slough of Despond” through which Christian with his heavy burden of sins struggled. This could be the boggy ground known as Squich Fen near Harrowden or the glutinous clay pits at Stewartby. The “Cross” where Christian was forgiven his sins and lost his burden could be the cross in the village of Stevington to the west of Bedford.
to the west of Ampthill which would have been a very dark and gloomy and frightening place at night in Bunyan’s time without any street lighting. The “River of the Way of Life” where Christian and his friend, Hopeful, came across beautiful sweet grass and flowers might well be the river Ouse east of Bedford where Bunyan remembered a happy childhood. On a grimmer note, “Doubting Castle” where Christian and Hopeful were cast into dungeons and beaten by “Giant Despair” is thought to have been the former Ampthill Castle (where Catherine of Aragon was imprisoned in 1531 by her own Giant Despair, namely Henry 8th). The wide, swift flowing “Dark River” with no bridge or ferry to the Celestial City on the other side is the final test for Christian and Hopeful and proves very difficult to cross. This river is generally accepted to be the river Thames in the former Middlesex. Besides these few examples, there are many more; some of which are more easily recognised than others. But some, perhaps, are simply the result of Bunyan’s imagination and the desire to paint a sermon in words.
The “Valley of the Shadow of Death” is thought to be the gorge at Millbrook
Issue Issue 76 76 •• April April // May May 2017 2017 39 39
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Issue 76 • April / May 2017 47
COLLEGE LAKE www.bbowt.org.uk/whats-on Please visit the website for more information and to book your place on walks and activities.
Geology Rocks at College Lake Sat 1st & Sun 2nd April, 10:00am - 4:00pm, FREE Celebrate College Lake's amazing geological discoveries on our Geology Rocks weekend! Come along and discover more about our incredible history, from amazing ammonites to mega mammoths! Walks, talks and activities for all ages. Online booking required. Dig-it! Children’s Workshop Sat 1st & Sun 2nd April, 10:30am - 11:30am Thurs 1st June - 10:00 - 11:30am & 1:00 - 2:30pm FREE Become a fossil hunter in our fun, interactive workshop, and discover more about the mysteries of College Lake’s past. Travel back in time as a fossil hunter and discover what mysterious creatures used to live at College Lake thousands, or even millions, of years ago. Age 7+, no younger siblings please. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Online booking essential Family Trail: Spring into Spring Mon 3rd April - 9:30am & Mon, 17th - 4:00pm Come and meet the springtime creatures of College Lake on our Spring into Spring family trail! Find out more about the animals that call College Lake home, solve a puzzle, explore the reserve, and even win a little prize at the end. Suitable for the whole family to enjoy on 48 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
Upper Icknield Way, Tring. HP23 5QG Tel: 01442 826774
an Easter walk. The trail will be up to enjoy throughout the Easter holidays from 3rd to 17th April. £2 per participating child, please ask at the Visitor Center welcome desk to get started on the trail. The trail should take approximately an hour to complete (less if you’re speedy!) and will suit little and long legs. Toilets and cafe are located nearby. No need to book, just come along at any time between 9.30am and 4pm. Family Fun: Eggsplorers Wed 5th Apr, 11:00am - 3:00pm, £4 See Tring Museum listings page for more informaion. Online booking essential. Dawn Chorus Walk Sun 7th May, 4:30am - 7:00am, £4 Join us for an early morning stroll around College Lake listening and learning all the different bird calls. There will be guides on hand to help you identify the different songs. Bring your binoculars and keep yours eyes peeled and your ears open! After the walk why not enjoy a hearty full English breakfast with a beautiful view. After a 2 mile walk you will have certainly earned it! Suitable for ages 11+ Book online. Go Wild On The Farm Wed 31st May, 10:00am - 4:00pm, FREE Fnd out about our farming history, and the wonderful wildlife that comes along with it. Activities for the whole family including displays, crafts and hands-on discovery to celebrate our new farming and wildlife exhibition. There will also be the chance to join walks and talks to find out more about our unique farming heritage.
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DISCOVER Ashridge
Visitors Centre, Moneybury Hill, Berkhamstead, Hertfordshire. HP4 1LT
Easter 2017 Crafts Mon 3rd - Fri 7th April. 10:00 - 16:00, £2 per child
In the run-up to Easter come along and make your own Easter bunny. You can make an Easter bunny or an Ashridge deer to take home. Why not head outside to explore afterwards? Crafts take place in the visitor centre classroom but make sure to dress according to the weather if you are planning on going for a walk afterwards. All children must be supervised by an adult.
Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Mon 10th - Mon 17th April 10:00 - 16:00, £3* / £5
Hop like a bunny along our Easter trail and receive a chocolate bunny prize in our annual Cadbury Egg Hunt. The Cadbury bunny has set up an Easter trail through the woods for you to follow. Can you answer all the questions to claim your chocolate reward? All children must be accompanied by an adult.Dogs on leads are welcome. Look for the trail starting point at the gazebo on Monument Green (across from the visitor centre).
*Early-bird price of £3 (Mon 10th - Thurs 13th) to encourage early visits and reduce overcrowding during Easter weekend
Gentle Stroll - Signs of Spring Wed 12th Apr 10:30 - 12:30, £3
Join our knowledgeable volunteers to look for signs of spring close to the visitor centre. There is a large variety of plants and trees at Ashridge. Explore the area around the visitor centre for signs of spring amongst the different species that grow. Children are welcome with accompanying adults. Dogs on leads are welcome. Meet at the visitor centre.
50 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
Gentle Stroll - Bluebells Wed 3rd May 10:30 - 12:30, £3
Join our knowledgeable volunteers for a gentle stroll to see Ashridge’s famous bluebells. This two mile gentle walk will take you to some of Ashridge’s best bluebell areas. Children are welcome with accompanying adults. Dogs on leads are welcome. Meet at Ling Ride car park, no need to book- turn up and pay on the day.
Ashridge Bluebell Walk Sat & Sun from 6th - 21st May (dates to be confirmed) 10:00 - 1600, Adult: £8 Child: £5
Join our rangers and volunteers for a series of walks to see the best of the bluebells. This 5-6 mile walk across Aldbury Common, Sallow Copse and Dockey Wood showcases the renowned Ashridge Bluebells at their best. Dates to be confirmed at time of printing, call 01442 851227 to book. This walk may be too long for children under 12. Dogs on leads are welcome. Meet in the visitor centre car park.
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www.thevinemagazine.com 19 Issue 76 • April / May 2017 51
What’s On Akeman Street Tring Hertfordshire HP23 6AP
EASTER TRAIL 1st - 17th April. All day. £1 Hunt for 12 hidden eggs in the galleries and win a chocolate surprise. Discover egg-laying animals around the Museum and answer questions about them. No need to book.
For Infomation Tel: 020 7942 6171
Explore exhibitions and events at www.nhm.ac.uk/tring. Find out more about incredible wildlife of Mauritius and help recreate an island scene in this craft event. Suitable for ages 5+. Drop-in workshop.
EXPLORE EGGS 4th - 7th April 10.30-11.00, 11.15-11.45, 14.30-15.00 £2 Children can investigate the world of eggs by handling specimens in the Museum’s collection.
TODDLER TIME AT TRING Trem-Time Weekdays 24th April - 26th May, 14.30 - 16.00, Free. Borrow something special and help your toddler explore and play around the Museum. Five activities rotate each day. Pick up your resources at admissions and enjoy them in the galleries. Suitable for children aged 3-5. No need to book.
FAMILY FUN: EGGSPLORERS 5th April, 11.00 - 15.00, £4 per child Special outdoor activity at College Lake. College Lake and the Natural History Museum at Tring are teaming up to find out about eggs, as well as the new life in the reserve in spring. Enjoy crafts, displays and trails on the beautiful College Lake site. This event includes activities suitable for the whole family. Booking essential at www.bbowt.org.uk.
WELLY WEDNESDAY AT TRING 26th April, 10th & 24th May, 10.30 - 11.15, £3 per child. Outdoor activity, meet at The Quad. No need to book. Help children explore nature in an outdoor play session. Create nature-themed outdoor crafts and listen to peaceful stories in this messy play session for children under 5.
TRING PARK EGG HUNT 10th April, 10.30-12.00 & 14.30-16.00, £2 Special event at Tring Park. Search the hills, trees and grasses of Tring Park for hidden clues that reveal facts about egg-laying British animals. If you find all the clues you’ll receive a chocolate treat. Meet in the Quad and walk to the park together. Suitable for children aged 7+. Booking essential, call: 020 7942 6163
DESIGN A DODO BOOKMARK 30th May 10.15-10.45, 10.45-11.15, 11.15-11.45 & 14.30-15.00, 15.00-15.30. £2 per child. Create your own dodo to take home. It will be as thin as a feather to slide between your book pages. Suitable for children aged 5+. No need to book.
DODO ISLAND ART 11th - 13th April, 10.30-11.00, 11.15-11.45, & 14.30-15.00, £2 per child. Discover the animals of Mauritius, where dodos once lived. The Mauritius kestrel, dodo and giant tortoise are just some of the animals from the island that are endangered or extinct.
52 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk
EXPLORE: MYSTERY SPECIMENS 31st May & 1st June 10.15-10.45, 10.45-11.15, 11.15-11.45 & 14.30-15.00, 15.00-15.30, £2 per child. Is it a bird? Is it a mammal? Is it a bone or fossil? Become a curator to examine our handling specimens. Take on the role of a scientist and investigate which animals these specimens belong to. No need to book. Suitable for children aged 5+.
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For all of your decorating needs Issue 76 • April / May 2017 53 Order Prints
Clubs & Groups WIDOWS & WIDOWERS CLUB We are an active Widows and Widowers club. Meetings are held locally and new members are always welcome. If you would like to make new friends and join in our many outings and activities please ring Jenny 01582 672766 or Val 01582 659717 or email Carol at carol.hodges@ntlworld.com CURTAIN CALL THEATRE GROUP & YOUTH THEATRE Youth theatre open to children aged 5 - 16 Mondays 5pm - 7.30pm Eaton Bray Village Hall. Acting, Singing, Dance, Fun & Games! Adult group (16+) Mondays 8pm 10pm Eaton Bray Village Hall. New members always welcome wheather on or off stage. Call Gavyn 01525 220525 www.curtaincalltheatregroup.co.uk WEDNESDAY CLUB at NORTHALL VILLAGE HALL Are you or do you know of an elderly person in the Northall, Dagnall, Edlesborough, Eaton Bray or surrounding villages who might benefit from a social day out once a week? Why not come along to the Wednesday Club from 10.00am to 3.00pm. Our own minibus can pick you up, morning coffee and biscuits, home cooked lunch with pudding, afternoon tea and cakes. Play games and bingo, sale table, entertainment by visitors and outside club visits. Join in as much or as little as you like, make new friends, very friendly atmosphere. Only £9.00 per week including transport. Contact Anna on 07854 230243, please leave a message if no answer. BEDFORDSHIRE GUILD OF WEAVERS, SPINNERS & DYERS. A friendly group of textile crafts people who meet in Flitwick Village Hall twice a month.
First Tuesday evening of each month 7.30 - 9-30 and Third Saturday, all day, 10.30 to 4.30. We welcome visitors interested in seeing what we do, so please pay a visit to our website www.bedsguildwsd.blogspot.co.uk BEECROFT CRAFT & CHAT Beecroft Community Centre Westfield Road Dunstable We meet on the 1st Wednesday of every month between 10.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m on a “drop in/drop out” basis. We meet to have a cuppa, chat and craft together in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Our many experienced crafters offer mini workshops on a variety of crafts and are always on hand to advise and help with any crafting problems you may have. ALL CRAFTS WELCOME If you are bored, or don’t/can’t craft, why not come and try something new with us. The first session is FREE Annual subscription £5.00 Session Fee: £3.00 For more info; contact Dorothy on 01582 606812 or check out Beecroft Craft & Chat on Facebook DUNSTABLE WI Dunstable WI meet two evenings a month on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at Watling Lower School Bullpond Lane at 7.00pm. We are friendly group and like to enjoy ourselves. We have a wide range of speakers with different talents crafts, and also Quizz nights to test our brains. We welcome new members so join us and make new friends. April 13th In house May 23rd Mr Brazior - Mercy ships For more information telephone Barbara Fisher 01582 665252
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NATIONAL TRUST All meetings are held at Salvation Army Centre, Dunstable. Guests are welcome at £3.00 As well as outing we also run a holiday once per year. If you would like to join the group, please contact, Lynder Power 01582 696193 or Janr Lingham 01582 606838 DUNSTABLE PROBUS CLUB Dunstable PROBUS Club meets on the second Monday of the month and membership is open to retired or semi-retired professional and business men. The Club’s main object is the promotion of good fellowship. Members enjoy a variety of social activities and organized visits throughout the year and at their regular monthly meetings they are entertained by after-lunch speakers. If you are interested in joining the Club, please contact the Secretary, Philip Savage on 01582 662462. FRIENDS OF STUDHAM COMMON We are a friendly,voluntary group whose aim is to conserve,maintain and promote Studham Common as a haven for wildlife and a place for everyone to enjoy. For this purpose we meet as a work party on the third Saturday of each month (except Dec.) The work is not onerous and we enjoy the exercise and the good company –and a picnic lunch is provided! Details from Pam on 01582 872608 pamrumfitt@btinternet.com LANGDALE CHURCH Langdale church communities: Art group every week, Friends and Neighbours open to everyone speaker and refreshments every second Thursday, Toddler group every Wednesday term time only, Saturday coffee morning second Saturday every month, Carers drop in 1st Thursday every month. Neighbourhood chaplains befriending and sup-
April - May 2017 port in the local community. Sunday morning services at 10.30am. Please contact 01582 602980 langdalechurch@talktalk.net SOCIAL GROUP We are a small group of people age 45+. If you like to have fun and enjoy yourself then please get in touch. No Membership required, just ring Tina for more information between 10am & 8pm week days 01582 619035 NORTHALL TODDLER GROUP Northall Village Hall, LU6 2EX Join new mums, dads, grandparents and carers.Every Tuesday 9:30 – 11:30am (including school holidays) For children aged 0-5 years. Tea, coffee, juices and healthy snack. Come join in the fun, games and learning (inside and out) £2.50 during term time (per family) £1 per child during school holidays (Adults free & older children welcome) Tel. Stacey 07957 607592 or Sally 07963 506188 ARTS & CRAFTS Art & Craft for adults with learning difficulties every Wednesday 10.30am - 12.30pm & every Sat 11am - 1pm at Arttrend, rear of 440 Dunstable Road.Please see the website www.arttrend.co.uk for all the details or phone 07794987796 THE BOGTROTTERS The Bogtrotters (Dunstable and District Walking and Hostelling Group) are a group of about 90 walkers, hikers and hostellers. We run a surprisingly diverse range of activities, including half and full day walks, hostelling trips, meals and evening activities.New members are always welcome. Prospective members are invited to get in touch via the website, give us a ring or just turn up to an event or walk. 01582 865966 Sue or Julian
Enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk DUNSTABLE CAMERA CLUB Dunstable Camera Club, meet 2nd Tuesday of the month, 7.15pm, Conservative Club, High St. Dunstable. Friendly atmosphere. Improve your photography in a social environment. www.dunstablecameraclub.co.uk BREATHEASY Do you suffer from a lung condition? Then why not come and join our local Support group - breatheasy - Part of the British lung foundation. We meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month at peter newton pavilion (Behind Tesco) 2 - 4pm carers also welcome As well as supporting each other we have a variety of speakers and also arrange day trips out. New members most welcome Tel: Amanda Fletcher 01582 404479 SAPHIRE SOCIAL CLUB We meet every Thursday at The Orange Tree Stevenage Rd Hitchin from 8.30pm. A small and friendly group for single people aged 50+. We offer a variety of social events during the month and the opportunity to make new friends. Potential new members are warmly welcome to come along and meet us with no joining fee for 2 months. For further info call/text Ian 07900 890583 or Joyce 07952 678021 www.sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk DUNSTABLE BAPTIST CHURCH St Mary’s Gate (Middle of Ashton Square Car Park) Our Friends and Neighbours meetings are open to everyone on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month. For more information contact David tel: 01582 872106
DUNSTABLE GARDEN CLUB “Members & friends have enjoyed several garden visits during the summer including Hampton Court Flower Show. The last one of the season was on 8th September to Wakehurst Place, Sussex with its lovely gardens and home to the Millennium Seed Bank of international importance. Our winter programme started on 12th September. All meetings are held in the Salvation Army Hall, Dunstable (near Wilkinson’s car park) at 7.30 pm. Members are welcome £2 and the annual sub is £10. Further information from Mary Chapman 01582 603710 NEW MOON MORRIS We are a mixed side dancing traditional dances from all over England – with our own twist – as well as choreographing new dances. We are particularly looking for new dancers. We meet most Tuesday evenings 8:15 – 10:15 at Ivinghoe Town Hall, LU7 9EW (we advise that you check – in case we are ‘dancing out’). Contact: squire.newmoon@gmail.com. Find out more at: http://newmoonmorris.blogspot.co.uk New Moon Morris will be ‘dancing out’ at the following local events in April and May: 17th April Throughout the day at Pitstone Museum open day, Pitstone. 23rd April, 10:00 - 16:00 St George’s Day at Holmer Green, Bucks. 16th May, From 19:30 Rising Sun Pub, Berkhamsted, with “Wicket Brood Morris”
Issue 76 • April / May 2017 55
Clubs & Groups DUNSTABLE DAOS Tuesdays and Fridays, 7:45pm - 10:00pm We are Dunstable's premier Musical Theatre group. We perform out major shows, once a year, at The Grove Theatre in Dunstable along with concerts, small shows and so on. Find our Facebook Group or Facebook page for more details. Email: daosuk@gmail.com STUDHAM W.I. We are a very friendly WI meeting on the first Thursday of the month, 7.45pm at Studham Village Hall. Our programme is full and varied: October, (Ladies only), Chris Bylett, one of the top 10 ventriloquists in the country - “The man who is paid to talk to himself”, and November, (Open meeting - both sexes) Chris Hazell, local composer/arranger who has won several Grammy awards - “Just for the Record”. We have “Ladies Wot Lunch” and “Ladies
Who Dine” as well as a Darts Team and take part in many County trips and events. Cost for visitors if £3.50 which includes refreshment. There is a Raffle at every meeting and a “Bring and Buy” at Open meetings. Why not look at our facebook page to see what we have been doing recently. We would be delighted to see you and are sure that you will have an enjoyable evening. LIPREADING CLASS: DUNSTABLE Did you know that one in six people in this country have some kind of hearing problem? Hearing loss can affect anyone of any age. Hearing aids have improved enormously, they use all the advances in modern technology, but even the best aids don’t cure hearing loss. It is still a problem to hear in noisy social or work environments, but all is not lost. Research has shown that joining a lipreading class helps to avoid the
BEDFORDSHIRE NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY www.bnhs.org.uk Tuesday 18th April Maulden Village Hall, MK45 2DP 8pm Talk “Dr Martin Lister (1639-1712), pioneer conchologist” by Peter Topley, Honorary President of the Conchological Society. This talk will relate the fascinating story of Martin Lister, the first ‘modern’ conchologist and arachnologist, Vice-President of the Royal Society, friend of John Ray and collaborator of Isaac Newton. It will also tell of the family production of his magnum opus, the Historiae Conchyliorum, featuring just under one thousand engravings of shells. Thursday 27th April FLITWICK 7pm Walk in Flitwick Manor Park, one of the earliest examples of the planting of an arboretum in Britain, started in 1819 by John Thomas Brooks. A number of his original trees survive in the publicly accessible pinetum, along with others planted up until1858. These include some of the oldest known plantings outside their natural habitat. Families welcome. Limited parking in local streets. Meet at site entrance, MK45 1HU.
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damaging social isolation that can accompany hearing loss. Lipreading classes teach you to let your eyes help your ears fill in the things you miss. They are small friendly classes, and as well as learning lipreading we cover, how hearing works and the things that can go wrong, equipment and organisations that can help, strategies to cope in various situations, and much more, oh, and we laugh a lot! My name is Molly Berry, and I am profoundly deaf, I started losing my hearing when I was in my thirties, and 7 years ago I was given a Cochlear Implant. It was very successful, and so I decided to retrain as a lipreading tutor to pass on the skills I relied on. I teach in Beds. Bucks and Herts, and there is now a class in Dunstable on a Wednesday afternoon. For more information about this and other classes or to join a class, call or text me on 07741 095921 or email me at mb.lipreading@gmail.com
Saturday 6th May FLITTON 2pm-4pm Visit Flitton Moor to do some pond dipping and the nature trail. Families welcome. Meet at the barn at the end of Brook Lane, TL057360, MK45 5EJ. Sunday 14th May LUTON 10:30am-1pm Walk along Luton’s underrated river corridor to look at the habitats and species of the Upper Lea, with the chance of spotting water vole, kingfisher, spring flowers and much more. Families welcome. Free parking at Wardown Museum at LU27HA, TL088229 or LU2 7HW, TL089228 beside the bowling green. Meet in car park at front of museum. Sunday 21st May WHIPSNADE 11am Visit Whipsnade Downs for the Duke of Burgundy, Green Hairstreak, Grizzled and Dingy Skippers for a joint meeting with Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire Butterfly Conservation. Families welcome. Meet at the Bison Hill car park SP999184, LU6 2LA. Leader: Greg Herbert.
April - May 2017
THE BEACON COMMUNITY CHOIR Conducted by Judith Sheridan Will be performing Stainer’s Crucifixion On Good Friday, April 14th, at 7 pm, In St. Mary’s Church, Ivinghoe Tickets £8 from lhewlett@btinternet.com
“Swing Into Spring” Tuesday 9th May, 7.30pm Library Theatre, Leighton Buzzard - Box Office 0300 300 8125 The Five Star Swing Big Band show, as featured at London’s Leicester Square Theatre, will be Swinging along with songs from Glenn Miller, Sinatra, Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, Jazz & Blues. “Superb - they swing like crazy!” says Sheila Tracy, BBC. As seen on BBC TV’s "Children in Need", Dame Vera Lynn’s Charity Ball & Blackpool Tower Ballroom. “Swing and Song of the highest order” – Telegraph. Featuring, from Eggington, Simone from the Ivy Benson Orchestra, and Chris Smith (Jnr) composer and arranger for the BBC Radio Big Band, Herb Miller Big Band (Glenn’s brother), plus Tony Bennett’s trombonist! www.leightonbuzzardlibrarytheatre.co.uk
Saturday 20th May 7.30pm
An Evening With Jonathan Veira Saturday 20th May 2017, 7.30pm St Mary’s Church Eaton Bray Churches Together would like to invite you to an evening with International Singer/Comedian/Raconteur Jonathan Veira at St Mary’s Church Eaton Bray on Saturday 20th May 2017 at 7.30pm The evening will include light refreshments and a retiring collection for Christian Aid Contact Chriss Hewitt on 01525 222288 or 07983153214 for tickets, priced at £10.00 each. Catch a glimpse of JV online at www.jonathanveira.com
CARITAS HARMONY MUSICAL SPECTACULAR The Grove Theatre Dunstable 11th June - 6PM
Award-winning Ladies’ Choir Caritas Harmony make a highly anticipated return to The Grove Theatre in a concert to benefit The Mayor of Dunstable’s charities. Led by the experienced and exacting standards of Musical Director Margaret Blenkin and the highly talented accompaniment of pianist Martin Hart, the Ladies promise to transport you delightfully through their journey of song. The Choir is especially well-known for its skilled close harmony, clear diction and varied repertoire delivered beautifully with feeling. With a guest compere and supporting artist, the programme promises to include something for everyone’s taste and will offer a thoroughly entertaining evening. Issue 76 • April / May 2017 57
Out & About CHILTERN GATEWAY Dunstable Road, LU6 2GY
Butterfly Trail 5th - 12th April 11am - 3pm £1.50
ANTIQUES FAIR
Butterfly walk through the Downs can you see any butterflies? Beginning and ending with elevated views from Dunstable Downs, follow the flight of the Brimstone butterfly as it fly’s across the rolling hills and discover the estates beautiful wildlife. All children welcome, recommended for children age 4+. Dogs on leads are welcome.
The Rotary Club of Dunstable shares an international motto of “Service above Self”. The Club members raise money during the year to put into their Benevolent Fund and once a year this money is distributed to charities local to Dunstable and the surrounding villages.
Centre Craft activity Giant Daffodils and Butterflies 7th, 10th & 23rd April 10am - 11am £4 per child Discover the wonderers of Dunstable Downs and create your very own Giant Daffodil and Butterfly to take home.Be inspired by the beautiful landscape of the Whipsnade Estate. Create your very own Giant Daffodil and Butterfly. A craft workshop designed for children. All children must be supervised, however the Visitor Services team will be around to assist and supply the material. All children welcome. Adult supervision is required. Unfortunately dogs are not welcome at this event. Signs of Spring Cadbury Egg Hunt 14th - 17th April 11am - 3pm £2.50 Discover the signs of spring at Dunstable Downs. Hop like a bunny through the trees of Chute Wood to find the clues below the nest boxes then collect your Cadburys chocolate treat. Discover the signs of spring at Dunstable Downs on this special new trail through the trees. The egg hunt will take you on a journey through Chute Wood to find nest boxes and learn about the important nature conservation work the National Trust carries out here. At the end of the trail you’re sure to receive a tasty reward. No booking for this event is required however subject to availability. Children of all ages welcome must be supervised. Assistance dogs are welcome.
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Monday 1st May 10am - 4pm
To this end an Antiques Fair is held three times a year at the Dunstable Leisure Centre where the majority of the income goes to the Benevolent Fund. The next Fair is on Bank Holiday Monday 1st May 2017 and is open to the public between 10am and 4pm. Admission is a modest £2 per person. How can you help? By having a stall at the event. Please contact Alan Tarsey on 01582 872673 By attending the event By becoming a member of The Rotary Club and helping worthwhile causes in the community. More information can be obtained from Roger Sharp on 01582 606405
April - May 2017
PRIORY HOUSE 33 High Street South, Dunstable, LU6 3RZ Tel: 01582 891420 EASTER AFTERNOON TEA 15th April to 22nd April From £18.50 per person under 12's £9.00 Booking To book or check availability for Easter Afternoon Tea please call Priory House on 01582 891420. A 20% non refundable deposit is required at time of booking. ELEVENSES Enjoy a mid morning treat for two. Between 10.00 am and 12 noon Enjoy Elevenses for only £11.00 for two people. Elevenses includes: A Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagel, Savoury Muffins, Crumpets with homemade strawberry jam, marmite or lemon curd and a slice of cake. All of this topped off with a refillable pot of Tea or Coffee. No booking necessary For more information please contact Priory House on 01582 891420 Email prioryhouse@dunstable.gov.uk
LUTON HOO OPEN DAY 22nd April, 11am-3pm Spring Open Day & Plant Heritage Fair At Luton Hoo Estate Walled Garden
APPLEDOWN FUN DOG SHOW Sunday 14th May
Come along to Appledown for a great family day out!
12 classes plus Best in Show Tea tent, Barbecue & Stalls! Show opens at 11 a.m. Classes commence 12 noon. Judge: Lynne Davies. Entries on the day. Appledown Rescue & Rehoming Kennels, Harling Road, Eaton Bray, LU6 1QY. Tel: 01525 220383
TEA TIME TALES AT PRIORY HOUSE
Talks of local and national interest Join us on alternate Thursday afternoons between 2.30 pm and 4.00 pm for talks of local and national interest with a cup of tea or coffee and a homemade cake. Tickets are £4.75 each and we strongly recommend purchasing your tickets in advance as they often sell out before the day. Tickets can be purchased over the phone using a debit/credit card. For more information or to book tickets please contact Priory House on 01582 891420
6th April
The ins & outs of Dunstable Inns Joan Curran
20th April
An unassuming County. The making of Bedfordshire countryside. - Brian Kerr
£3 entry, free for children under 5 years old Free Children's Activities. Tours of the Garden £2 Refreshments available plus plants to buy! Tel: 01582 721443
4th May
A1081 Luton to Harpenden take Newmill End turning LU1 4LF (No access via the Hotel)
18th May
When This You See Remember Me. Devon Motto Ware Pottery Virginia Brisco Henry VIII and his version of Brexit Paul Healy Issue 76 • April / May 2017 59
Out & About CELEBRATE ST GEORGE’S DAY Come and join us celebrating St. George’s Day on Saturday 22 April between 11.00 am and 4.00 pm for a family fun-filled day. This year there’s lots to see and do, why not become a Knight or a Princess by making your own crown or sword then look out for Dexter the Dragon on his walkabouts. If you fancy a challenge then there is the dragon trail to conquer. ’..to save a maid St George a Dragon slew, a pretty tale if all that’s told be true…’ Do you know the story of George and the Dragon? Catch the live performance of Garlic Theatre’s fantastic award winning ‘George and the Dragon’ puppet show. If you fancy music you will be delighted by the wide range of traditional repertoire from our very own Dunstable Town Band. Last but not least, watch out for the birds of prey flying demonstrations. Would you be brave enough to handle them? Keep updated at www.dunstable.gov.uk
Look Out For The Following Activities And Entertainment: Meet Dexter the Dragon Dragon Town Trail Static Birds of Prey Display and Flying Demonstration Face Painting
Arts & Crafts George and the Dragon “Have a Go” Archery Bungee Run Dunstable Town Band
Around The World Dunstable Town Council need your help to make this event even better! They are looking for local communities, clubs and societies to participate in the event on Saturday 20th May in Priory Gardens, Dunstable. The event is designed to educate the general public on the wide varieties of different cultures that the world has to offer, whilst having fun learning about what you would expect to see in each different country. There will be different activities from the different continents and will include dance, music, crafts, entertainment and much more.
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This is a fantastic Satur day opportunity for you 20th May to showcase your group, club, business or your hobby. The event is a free family fun event for everyone to get involved with and we would appreciate your support. We are anticipating around 1,500 people throughout the day. If you are interested in being involved, please contact Lisa Vincent at lisa.vincent@dunstable.gov. uk for a booking form or call on 01582 891406 for more information.
Stamp Fair
Philatelic Society Saturday 13th May 10am - 4pm Easter Weekend 14 - 17 April 10am – 3pm
Easter Bunny Hunt Complete the trail and win an egg! Come and find eight wooden rabbits hidden in the park, answer the questions and win an Easter egg. Pick up your question sheet from the Herons’ Hatch, return it there with your answers to receive your chocolate egg reward.
Tickets £3.50 per child To avoid disappointment book in advance at www.eventbrite.co.uk (search Easter Bunny Hunt) Or you can just turn up on the day of your choice at the Herons’ Hatch but numbers are limited
Methodist Hall, Queensway, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK2 2HB. As usual we will have Stamp Dealers and members selling stamps, coins and covers. We are also very lucky to have the former Bletchley Park Post Office there with their special commemorative covers. Refreshments available all day. For further information please call: 01908 521220 Email: info@miltonkeynesphilatelicsociety.co.uk or visit our website: www.miltonkeynesphilatelicsociety.co.uk COME AND ENJOY
Sunday 23 April
| 10.30am – 12.30pm
Spring flowers in Maulden Wood
Explore Maulden Wood in Spring when it’s looking its best with stunning displays of wild flowers. Learn about the woodland’s wildlife, history and management on this guided walk.
• Book tickets at www.eventbrite.co.uk (search using event name) Tickets: Adults £4, children £2
Meet at the entrance to the woods in the A6 lay-by Sensible footwear recommended Limited numbers of children welcome but must be accompanied by an adult Secure parking available for £1 per car in The Working Woodlands Centre Proceeds support environmental charity The Greensand Trust
Issue 76 • April / May 2017 61
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