The vine, villages august september 2013 issue 9 by The Vine Magazine

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• Edlesborough • Eaton Bray • Totternhoe • Toddington • Harlington • Hockliffe • Stanbridge • Tilsworth • Eggington • Tebworth • Dagnall

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Editors: Scott Nightingale Shelly Nesbitt

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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.

Copy deadline for our next issue - 15th September 2013

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Summer In Dunstable 6 Pack It In 8 Town At The Crossroads 10 A Travellers Tale 12 Looking Up! 16 Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best For You - Bill Shock 20 Aged Concerns 24 At Home 26 In The Garden 28 Auto-biographies 30 Helping Reluctant Readers 32 The Nutrition Coach 34 Food Intoloerance 36 Men! Read This 38 Natural Health 40 Puzzles 42 Out & About 44

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Dunstable Rocks Dunstable Rocks is going to be a fantastic day of live bands ending with headlining act Hazel O’Connor - a must event for all music lovers! Rock up to Grove House Gardens on Saturday, 31 August for a day of fantastic music from midday to 10.00 pm. Are you ready for this years Dunstable Rocks!? Get ready for 10 hours of non stop live music starting with local bands showcasing their talent. Then prepare for an evening to remember with the band Donut, a truly unbelievable covers band who will have you dancing and singing away! Then at 7.15pm be blown away by Jean Genie an awesome tribute to the legend David Bowie, this is all getting you ready for the headline act 80’s Icon Hazel O’Connor famous for her unique look and sound, singing the fantastic hits ‘8th Day’ and ‘Will you’ Dunstable Rocks will open at 12 noon with local performances. Part of Summer of Music, Dunstable Rocks! closes our summer of music and should not be missed, a summer afternoon of great music and did we mention... IT’S ABSOLUTELY FREE?

Summer Activities 2013 Summer Activities in Dunstable starts on Monday 29 July to Friday 23 August. For ages 5 to 18 years of age including family events. Summer Activities is a 4 week programme consisting of sports, crafts, inflatable days and much much more! For all children between 5 and 18 years old. There is also family events too so everyone can take part in the fun! There are a selection of activities that do incur charges and others are free to take part in. newly added to programme- Shuttleworth Activity Day Thursday 1 August £10pp limited places To find out more and to book onto an activity please phone Dunstable Town Council on 01582 513000 or e-mailinfo@dunstable.gov.uk.

2013 Band Concerts now include Saturdays Dunstable Town Council is please to announce their annual Band Concert for 2013. New for this year some of the band concert concerts are on Saturdays and each Saturday concert will have their own theme. Make sure you come down and enjoy these lovely free concerts in the beautiful setting of Grove House Gardens. Sat 3 Aug Sat 10 Aug Sat 17 Aug Sat 24 Aug 6

MK Brass Band - Songs from the West End Denham Brass - Band Songs from TV/Movies St Albans Band - Big Band Watford City Band - Last Night of the Proms

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Pack ! n I It I don’t know how he does it. When it comes to packing for holidays it takes my husband four minutes flat. I look enviously at his little pile of shorts, T-shirts and underwear and wonder where I am going wrong, as I wrestle with zips and straps in a determined effort to squeeze everything in.

any of us do it - pack too much when we go on holiday - then end up wearing the same few items all week. So how can we make the job easier, quicker and (with ever stricter baggage allowances), cheaper? The answer is to remember that ‘less is more’ and to take only things we really love to wear in a capsule wardrobe that will cater for every occasion. The first step is to envisage how you see yourself spending your holiday. If it’s mainly sunbathing, all you need for the daytime is swimwear – a couple of bikinis per week plus a well cut swimsuit for genuine swimming or diving – flip flops and a loose fitting shirt to cover you up on the way to and from the beach or pool. If you plan on sightseeing or shopping, pack some comfortable sandals or pumps and a pair of shorts, cut off trousers or a skirt (neutral colours would be most versatile), and a selection of coloured tops. Before deciding on which ones, lay them out and match them up. Choose colours and styles that go together, so that you can make up multiple outfits simply by switching items around. Sarongs are also a great choice as they are both lightweight and versatile and may be used as a skirt, dress or wrap, depending on how they are tied. Scarves make a good alternative and can also be used to wrap around and protect hair. A wide

brimmed hat will shield your face and hair from the sun, and is also a great fashion accessory. Some fashion experts suggest you take as many dresses as you can fit in. Teamed up with jewellery, a clutch bag and heels they are great for evenings out, and are still suitable for daywear when worn with flatties and a tote bag. Remember to take at least one warm item for chilly evenings or windy locations. Don’t forget to pack a couple of pairs of sunglasses in different shapes to create a varied look. Finally, take an oversized tote bag onto the plane and afterwards use it for the beach, or when you go shopping. Follow these tips and you shouldn’t go far wrong, but if you do, after your holiday write down all the items you ended up wearing (or that you wish you could have worn!) and use this as a guide next time you pack.

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Dunstable

The Town At The Crossroads - Part VIII

n last month’s article, I left the generally speaking, and didn’t like it hangover question “Terrible one little bit. though the Black Death undoubtHarsh penalties were meted out, edly was, did anything good come not only to poor old Joe Bloggs but from it?” The short answer is “Yes, also to those who paid his higher but very hard won”. Let’s see what wages which resulted in the middle happened. and lower classes joining forces to Remember that, on average, someresist the new laws. The fact that thing like 50% of the population further outbreaks of plague (admithad perished in the first plague - an tedly less serious) hit England in enormous proportion. This left an 1361 and 1369 meant that the King obvious problem: who was going to and his sidekicks continued to lose do the work? The remaining animals out. Swingeing taxes were imposed still needed looking after; crops still by Government in an attempt to needed to be sown and harvested; fund the ongoing Hundred Years everyday business still needed to War with France (which continued be conducted. But where were the during the plague affecting both people to do the jobs - half of them countries - how stupid can you had died? get?). And why is it always France? Remember also, that up until this To make things worse, a Poll Tax time, the vast majority of ordinary was introduced in 1377 which was folk lived under some form of strict extremely unpopular, especially feudal system in which they were at among the business class who were the mercy of their particular Lord. hit very hard. It seems that a poll tax He could demand what they did; has never been very popular. History how and when they did it; how they tends to repeat itself! lived their lives; and what pittance Throughout this period, England was they received. nominally ruled by Kings who were But in the early 1350s, things were little more than boys, eg Edward 3rd suddenly different. For the first time was only 15 when he assumed the ever, the “ordinary man in the street” throne and his successor, Richard (or field, or cowshed, or stable) who 2nd, was only 10. It meant that had survived the plague was in short Government was conducted through supply and had the power to ask for “Councils” made up of the “great better wages and better conditions. and the good”. But, although many What is more, he was now able to were great, most were not very good move to wherever he could improve and were out for what they could his lot - he was, effectively, a free get; there was much jostling for Heley man. But don’t run away with the By Paulposition and one can seeRichard II idea that this was the start of trade the first beginnings brought of in whereby unionism. It wasn’t. Individuals the Wars of those the Roses thoughttoto be the local ringleaders acted individually rather than colcome later. in the revolt were lectively and bargained individually However, byhung, the late drawn and for their labour. Employers were 1370s, things had come quarterd - and with the approval of the forced to pay higher wages resulting to a head; rebellion was Abbot of St Albans. in higher prices all round.This cycle, in the air and was maniVery Christian! Forof course, had a negative effect upon fested in 1381 as the tunately, The Prior at Dunstable any improved wages in that inflaPeasants’ Revolt when was far more lenient tion now reared its ugly head. The the boy king,andRichard, the ringleaders were given “powers that be”, ie the King, the was on the throne. It only light punishment aristocracy and the great landownmust be pointed out that in comparison. ers were not at all happy with these “Peasants” doesn’t mean So the Revolt, as such, was accepted crushed. But orchanges and wanted wages and peasants in the dinary folk, for prices to return to those before the sense of the word - it the first time ever, had considerBlack Death: they were losing out, was a derogatory term their standing ably improved 10

By Paul Heley

uttered by one of the aristocracy. In fact, many of the so called Peasants were businessmen, small landowners and farmers in addition to genuine peasants; but they all had grievances and wanted ancient rights restored (eg under Magna Carta) and new charters drawn up. Sad to say, some of the worst offenders to the newly won conditions were the religious houses who were extremely conservative - as usual - and reluctant to agree better wages, etc. Eventually, people rose up in great, threatening mobs and Richard, acting alone, met with one such riot in London and another in St Albans and promised to honour their demands. A rowdy contingent from Dunstable witnessed the St Albans meeting and returned home triumphant, thinking they had won the day. Poor, trusting, fools! As soon as the Council heard what Richard had done, they went ballistic and completely reneged on whatever had been promised. Not only that, but severe laws were hastily brought in whereby those thought to be the local ringleaders in the revolt were hung, drawn and quarterd - and with the approval of the Abbot of St Albans. Very Christian! Fortunately, The Prior at Dunstable was far more lenient and the ringleaders were given only light punishment in comparison. So the Revolt, as such, was crushed. need LITTLE ButYOU ordinary folk,JOBS for if the first time ever, had considerably Shelves scare you; flat pack frustrates or paint gives you a pain improved theiryoustandYou need someone to Do It for You ing and could enjoy For your General Home Maintenance needs better wages and Carl Bird tel: 01582 703039 or Mb 07773 230055 1 Patterdale Close, Dunstable, Beds. LU6 3DA conditions and could move around more or less at will. Although not completely dead, feudalRestaurant Motel ism was gasping& its Still The Best Sunday Lunch In Town last breath! Daily Specials &

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A ers Travell Tale

Looking for the Lights

omething which had been on Val's and my "must do" list for ages was to experience the Aurora Borealis (or Northern Lights). I'd already discovered that 2013 was supposed to be the year for maximum activity in the sun's eleven year cycle regarding sun spots - the starting point for these lights. But where to go? General scientific opinion (which, unfortunately, varies considerably) suggests that a zone of latitude between 60 and 75 degrees north is where the displays are best seen. And it is also suggested that the earth is best positioned for the lights around the Spring and Autumn equinoxes. But it's constantly emphasised that light pollution is a real no-no, ie the sky should be as dark as possible - and so mid winter can also be suggested as the best time to go. It's all very confusing! What is more, there is no guarantee that the lights will play ball - they are extremely fickle and capricious. In my opinion, they are definitely female! So, with fingers (and eyes and arms and legs) crossed, we tried to maximise our chances by:- a) choosing to go in 2013; b) choosing a wilderness spot at 68 degrees latitude; c) choosing March. What could possibly go wrong? Read on! We booked a 5 day trip at a tiny venue called Torassieppi in northern Finland. We flew to Copenhagen, then to Kittila followed by an hour's coach ride to Torassieppi. This consisted of a few wooden cabins and a central restaurant/meeting point. The

By Paul Heley

only nearby habitation was a reindeer farm down the road. That night we slept in remarkably warm and comfortable beds even though the outside temperature was -25 or -30 degrees C. Our venue was beside a large frozen lake and the scene was straight out of a picture book - a veritable winter wonderland with snow covered hills, millions of trees, snowy log cabins all glistening under a sunny, blue sky. Absolutely magical. But first, time for our survival gear - it can get very cold at this latitude. We received inner and outer gloves, thick socks, balaclava, crash helmet, boots and an all covering, quilted, oversuit. Together with our own undergarments such as long johns, thermal vests, warm shirts, fur lined bra, head gear and anything else to combat the cold it was a case of Jack Frost, eat your heart out !! When fully togged up with all the various layers, we looked like rolypoly Michelin men: any bending movement was impossible for me! Then a quick lesson on how to drive a skidoo (snowmobile). These have been described as "motorbikes on skis" - but I can assure you that the only similarity is that they both have handlebars! We set off on a "skidoo safari" across the lake, in and out of forests, to the top of a fairly high hill and then back. Driving on a smooth lake is easy but driving over rutted forest tracks and negotiating tight corners on hills is not. Especially when your skis get caught up in someone else's tracks - bike tyres caught in tram lines -

remember? Very difficult to extricate oneself. Afterwards, we had a well earned rest; younger, fitter members went snow shoeing or cross country skiing. There was also a sauna and a dip in the lake through a hole in the ice. But not for me! We hadn't finished yet: there was another burst on the skidoos at 9pm. But lumps and bumps can't be seen in a dark forest and it was hard work trying to stop the beast leaping about all over the place. I'd found a new form of medieval torture:- "ordeal by skidoo"! Passengers were invited to have a go themselves and, although Val had a bash, her wrists didn't hold out long enough. Still, she's driven a skidoo in the Arctic. Not many can say that. Well done, Val. For me, this 30 kilometre experience brought it home loud and clear that I'm not as young as I was and my shoulders took a terrible pounding. But thirty years ago! Just before our evening meal, there was a brilliant display of the lights. But it was all over in a minute - very fleeting, very transient. But it gave us hope for wonderful things to come. So, later on, we tried for the lights again and went onto the lake and marvelled at the wonderful starlit sky. Truly magnificent. Occasionally an intense green glow suggested something might happen - but it just fizzled out. Sometime after midnight, we'd got pretty cold standing about in -25 C temperature even though we'd learnt that the aurora prefers the

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A Travellers

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(Continued)

hours between 11pm and 3am (most inconvenient). One or two people were prepared to wait and had set up their cameras and tripods properly; but were disappointed. Next day, medieval torture No. 2 - "ordeal by husky"! Another lesson on how to control a team of six huskies pulling a sled. However, although one steers a skidoo, with huskies you go where they go. The passenger sits very low in the sled and the "driver" stands behind on two narrow pieces of wood sticking out at ground level. The "brake" is a serrated bar of metal between these foot rests which one stands on to make it dig into the snow. It sounds primitive. It is primitive! Before the start, the dogs are raring to go and constantly straining to be off and as soon as the brake is released, they're away. The driver then has to hang on for grim death. When braking with one foot with the other foot on the sled, it's difficult to keep balance. Life becomes very precarious indeed. Lumps and bumps are exaggerated on a husky sled; at times the passenger is actually airborne. The "fun" lasted for 20 km and once again, Val briefly took the reins but, again, her poor wrists couldn't stand the twisting, turning and braking. However, she can also say she's "mushed" huskies. Good for her. After the evening meal there was a snowshoe trek looking for the lights but Val and I were both shattered so chickened out. But we went out later that night, marvelled at the wonderful sky again, saw a few glows but nothing else. Apparently, had we stayed, there was a bit of a display about 2am and one chap captured something worthwhile (and promised to send us copies. We're still waiting!). Senility now struck with a vengeance! Camera batteries don't like the cold - especially sub zero temperatures and my camera started to play up. Knowing this could happen, I'd earlier bought two new batteries; and then left my charger plus the two new batteries at home!! How foolish can you get? People took pity on the imbecile amongst them and offered their chargers but, of course, none fitted. Idiot! Idiot! Our next unusual experience was at the reindeer farm where we drove a sleigh. Two people sitting side by side promised to be far more sedate and less uncomfortable than either skidoo or husky driving. And so it was whilst "Boris" walked along or gently trotted behind his mate. But if the lead reindeer chose to gallop, they all galloped, and we experienced yet more leaping about over lumps and bumps. Then a lunch of reindeer soup with bread, frozen butter and cookies followed by a talk on reindeer farming and the indigenous Sami and Lapp people. Afterwards, one or two hopefuls tried unsuccessfully to lasso a reindeer and Val and I fed some reindeer. I was amazed at how they could possibly survive on dried moss and lichen - there 14

seems seems to be nothing substantial about it. Walking back to Torassieppi, it started to snow which didn't promise much joy for the evening minibus trip looking for the lights. Val went (to be sociable) but I stayed behind with a few other doubting Thomasses and we swapped stories and drinks around a roaring fire in the restaurant. The others didn't see anything - not surprising and justified our decision to stay in the warm. Next day was the final day and some of us went on a coach trip around the area. We saw a film show of the local wildlife and visited an excellent museum depicting the story of the people of Lapland. Then off to the Lainio "Ice Hotel":a series of rooms and bedrooms freshly created each year with ice and snow carvings kept at -4 C. All the "furniture" is ice but seats and beds are covered in skins for thermal insulation. A couple from our party stayed overnight and claimed it wasn't at all cold. Not for me though! After dinner (reindeer again), and as a final finale forever in hope, we went down to the lake again but, although there was the usual magnificent sky, we looked for the lights in vain. The temperature eventually beat us so we gave up. Tails between our legs! Defeated! Next morning, a last walk across the lake and into the forest. Once more, we had brilliant blue sky and sunshine with the whole scene looking as though from a picture postcard. It's not dramatic scenery but when covered in unbroken snow, it is wonderfully peaceful, very serene, and deafeningly silent. We left after lunch and retraced our homeward journey arriving chez nous around midnight absolutely shattered and in need of a restful holiday! In conclusion, we'd gone to Lapland to see the northern lights and, apart from that one brief sighting, didn't really see them as we had hoped (or expected). But, as compensation, we saw beautiful scenery, met some interesting people, and experienced skidoo, husky and reindeer driving. All in all, very good, very enjoyable and very memorable.

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Bedfordshire’s Night Sky Looking Up! in August and September 2013 By Seb Jay

Last Chance Saturn: Late summer is our last chance to see Saturn in the evening sky before it dips behind the Sun. The ringed planet can be found low down in the Southwest sky as it starts to get dark. Look for a yellow-orange point of light between 230°-240° SW, and 10°-15° above the horizon. Places like Dunstable Downs have a great view in this direction. With a telescope you’ll see Saturn’s rings in breathtaking detail and some of Saturn’s brightest moons. Moonless Perseids Meteor Shower:

The evening of Sunday 11 August and into the early hours of Monday 12 August sees the peak of this year’s Perseids meteor shower. The Moon sets earlyon, so choose a dark location away from streetlights with a great view towards the Northeast and watch Bedfordshire’s sky light up with the bright white streaks of up to 80 meteors an hour.

See the Summer Milky Way from the Chilterns: Early August and Early September are

great times to see the summer Milky Way overhead. So why not head up into the Chilterns to enjoy our galaxy’s starlight. Hire a telescope from www.darkskytelescopehire.co.uk and you’ll be able to pick out dazzling star clusters and the ghostly glow from summertime nebula. Dark Sky Telescope Hire www.darkskytelescopehire.co.uk seb@darkskytelescopehire.co.uk

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Mabel’s News Hello again!

from Appledown

I am Mabel the resident dog at Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels in Eaton Bray. I want to tell you about the exciting events we are running over the next couple of months. We hope that you will come along and have fun while helping us raise funds for the many dogs in our care.

What do dogs dream of...

when you’re away on holiday or out for the day

Outstanding, affordable care in our own home with our family

Charity Dance Night Friday 6th September

Another of our popular dances at St. John’s Hall, Sundon Park Road, Luton at 7.30pm Favourite dance numbers from the sixties through to the nineties. Tickets £8, includes light supper, available from Appledown.

Sponsored Walk Sunday 8th September

On Dunstable Downs. Register between 10am to 12pm Please contact us for details and a sponsorship form.

Evening Dog Walk Thursday 12th September

On Dunstable Downs. Enjoy a gentle guided walk that lasts around 1-1½ hours. Starts 6pm Please contact the kennels for details.

Open Day & Fun Dog Show Saturday 14th September

Doggy Sleepover For more information Call: 01525 222022 or 07711 593782

email: info@doggysleepover.co.uk

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Forget Me Knot Pet Bereavement LEAFLET AVAILABLE

At the kennels. Lots of classes, lots of stalls! Something for everyone! Enter on the day. 11am – 4pm (classes start 12pm).

Fun Dog Run Sunday 20th October

How fit are you and your dog?! Put it to the test over routes of 5K or 10K on Dunstable Downs. Contact us for more details. If you feel you can offer a dog a loving and secure home please call in at the kennels any day between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Our staff will be happy to offer advice and information. Please note that we have restrictions on rehoming dogs to families with children under 7 years of age, so please ask for details. Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels, Harling Road, Eaton Bray, Beds LU6 1QY Call 01525 220383 . E-mail appledown.kennels@btinternet.com Facebook – Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels. (Reg. Charity No. 1116848) 18

Support with pet loss Before the decision During the heartache After the journey The relationship shared with each pet is quite unique and we all grieve differently over individual pets. It is perfectly normal and acceptable to grieve over the loss of a pet.

Carol Winton AACC Diploma with ‘Credit’ through www.animalcarecollege.co.uk Please give me a call on 07796 302657 or email moggsandmutts@gmail.com

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What’sBestForYou

m LE

By Martin Lewis

Bill Shock

Bill By M

It’s the financial nightmares you never thou

happenthat that really hurt. So here’s how to fig It’s the financial nightmares you never thought would happen really hurt. the top 10 hidden bill perils.

1. “My six-year-old spent £3,200 on an iPh So here’s how to fight back against the top 10 hidden bill perils.

“My six-year-old spent £3,200 on an iPhone game”.

Letting youngsters sit on your knee while you use your smartphone or tablet means they’re likely to know your password which in turn can be pretty expensive. Recently, England player Sam Vesty got smacked with a £3,200 bill after his six and eight year olds bought their virtual farm animals a mountain of food, with real cash at £70 a pop over three hours. This is just one of the countless examples I’ve heard of. It’s disgusting that a kids’ game allows this, but it happens, so protect yourself. If you’re going to let the kids use your tech, there are tips to follow. Protect your password—your kids may know it without you knowing so change it regularly. Plus ensure your phone’s “app purchases” setting is restricted, so it needs a password. Most phones let you do this. Also speak to your network about financial and parental controls. An alternative with iPhones is to delink your credit/ debit card from your account and buy vouchers instead. Then it’ll never go over the top. And, finally, if all goes wrong and you’ve been stung by a massive charge due to the kids, do call up and explain. Often they’ll wipe it on a ‘one strike and you’re out’ policy—as they did for the rugby-playing dad.

Beware of debit card stealth charges when abroad.

Santander, NatWest, RBS, Halifax, Lloyds all add up to £1.50 every time you use them to spend on them overseas. AVOID! Instead, get a specialist overseas credit card—Halifax Clarity, Post Office, Saga (over 50s) and for Nationwide account holders ONLY, its select card. These have no spending charge, low ATM fees and crucially they don’t ‘load’ the exchange rate, meaning near perfect rates worldwide. Yet the golden rule is to set up a direct debit to repay these cards IN FULL each month to avoid interest. Full help and full card-by-card breakdown at www.moneysavingexpert.com/travelcards.

Letting youngsters sit on your knee while yo smartphone or tablet means they’re likely t password which in turn can be pretty expen

Avoid paying £150 a month for busting Recently, England player Sam Vesty got sma your overdraft £3,200 bill after his six and eight year olds b

Break your overdraft limitvirtual by even £1 and you can farm animals a mountain of food, wi face charges up to £5 a day Clydesdale, up is just one £70 aor, popatover three hours. This to £35 a transaction. It’s very easy getof. caught examples I’veto heard It’s disgusting that a out, but extremely costly,allows so ensure stay in the yours this, butyou it happens, so protect black. If you have been caught with a hefty amount If you’re going to let the kids use your tech, of bank charges, many of you will remember a few to follow. Protect your password—your kid years ago I was urging people to reclaim them. without you knowing so change it regularly. Some got thousands back. While a decision in the your phone’s “app purchases” setting is res Supreme Court put an end to that, rumours of the needs a password. Most phones let you do death of bank charges reclaiming have been greatly to your network about financial and parent exaggerated. alternative with is to delink you If you’ve had charges andAnthey’ve put iniPhones financial fromtoyour account Full, and buy vouchers in hardship, you may still becard able reclaim. never go over the top. And, finally, if all goe step-by-step help at www.moneysacvingexpert. you’ve been stung by a massive charge due com/bankcharges.

call up and explain. Often they’ll wipe it on and you’re out’ policy—as they did for the r offering dad. £15 off your next

Beware traps purchase with an online 2. Avoid discount paying £150 a month for busting y

Shockingly, even sites like The Trainline and TicketBreak your overdraft limit by even £1 and y master have reportedly made an extra 30 pieces of charges up to £5 a day or, at Clydesdale, up silver by allowing membership clubs like Shopper transaction. It’s very easy to get caught out Discounts to push these offers once you’ve bought costly, so ensure you stay in the black. If yo stuff. Many have been caught out, as MoneySavcaught with a hefty amount of bank charges ingExpert.com forum userwillSweetie27 wrote: Bought remember a few years ago I was urging a train ticket and must have clicked a link, as for reclaim them. Some got thousands back. W two years Shopper Discounts has been taking £10/ mth from my account, now totalling “300. I did not know anything about this and am totally gutted.” Communications about these have marginally improved since then but, be very careful—my view is these aren’t worth signing up to.

Watch TV online? Don’t pay a hidden £5 per film

Web players now pump out programmes with image quality rivalling Sky and Virgin. Yet this hoovers up data and many broadband packages have data limits. You can be charged up to £5 per 5GB (about two HD films) if you’re over your limit. Consider an unlimited package, normally only a couple of quid a month more expensive.

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What’sBestForYou

“I got a £3,000 holiday mobile data bill.”

Many smartphone apps routinely check for updates and downloads in the background and this can lead to monster fees when abroad. Watching TV, videos or even streaming music is worse. Prices aren’t regulated outside Europe, so turn 3G off. One of my users got stung with a £3,000 bill just for a few emails and maps on a trip to India and the USA and leaving their data roaming on whilst not using it.

Don’t ‘nearly’ repay cards in full—you’ll get an unexpected slap…

Repay credit cards in full and you usually don’t pay any interest. Yet if you owe £5,000 and repay £4,999 many cards will still charge you that month’s interest on the whole £5,000.

Beware of mobile voicemail which can be 35p a minute

Voicemail isn’t always free. Many firms charge a hideous 35p a minute if you call it when you’ve used your inclusive minutes (or from abroad). It’s best to keep track of your spending, or maybe turn it off whilst you’re on holiday.

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Fixed your energy price? Watch for pricey ‘go-to’ tariffs.

Once a fixed energy tariff ends, you slide onto providers’ uncompetitive standard tariffs—up to £260/year more than the cheapest. So diarise when it ends and switch again or join my new Cheap Energy Club at www.moneysavingexpert.com/ CheapEnegryClub which will do it for you.

Have debts were you bank or save? Beware…

If you have credit cards, loans or mortgages at the SAME bank where you save then beware. Banks can legally ‘set off’ or use your cash to repay your debts without asking you. They tend to do it if you’re struggling to repay. This has cancelled Christmases and left many in misery. One proud dad told me he paid £12,000 to his daughters account for her big day. Two days later, the bank used £6,000 of it to pay off her credit card debt even through there was a repayment plan in place. It’s legal. If you’re at risk, the golden rule is to simply separate them and use different financial institutions to save and to borrow.

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British Cheese Week 7th - 15th September Believe it or not, the UK produces over 700 named cheeses and this special week, together with the annual Great British Cheese Festival in Cardiff is a celebration of our local cheeses, as well as being a time to educate us all about cheese itself. Incredibly 1 in 10 Brits had no idea that milk is the main ingredient in cheese with some believing it to be mould, cream, water or egg. Whilst cheese does of course contain fat, eaten in smaller quantities it can aid the intake of nutrients in other foods that our bodies need for good health. Plus it’s versatile - what other food can you think of that can be used for starters, mains and puds?! Cheese should always be served at room temperature to enjoy it at its best. Always use different knives for mould ripened cheese and blue cheeses. For further information: www.britishcheese.com www.finefoodworld.co.uk www.cheesemakingshop.co.uk

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ners View

. A Pensio .. s n r e c n o C Aged

refer to the statement made by the Labour Party earlier this month of June, concerning the Universal pensioners benefits ie; The free bus pass, free T.V. for the over 75's and the winter fuel allowance. They feel that such benefits should not be paid to those earning, or receiving an income, above ÂŁ50,000. Some may consider this a reasonable request, others will not, they may well consider that they paid National Insurance contributions all their working life in return for such benefits and will not consider parting with such benefits for which they have paid, I would tend to agree with the later point of view. It would seem that regardless the political colour of the flag fluttering over both houses of Parliament, the general view would appear to be that such universal benefits should be capped, they have carved up all other benefits which in most cases hit the poorer

Food For Thought? people within the country, in particular, the disabled who have seen all of their benefits refunded to supply cash to the International Monetary Fund because of deficit not of their making, but those that could assist recovery from dire financial problems contribute - due to lawful (but definitely unfair) - work by a bunch of highly skilled and very expensive accountants. It was ever thus and not likely to change, in my opinion. However, perhaps it is time to suggest to our political leaders, that they should lead by example which does not seem to be the way things work. Some of our M.P.'s have personal fortunes, even if they do not they have other paths of revenue they can follow apart from their duties to their constituents. The salary and expenses add up to a considerable sum, they have subsidized restaurants and bars, paid by you, the tax payer, perks by the score and a pension scheme that is far far better

By Mike Newman

than most. There is no cap on their benefits. In fact, they vote for their own pay increases, I doubt there are very few 'no' votes to such increases. One would think that as they are in the driving seat and are discovering ways and means of ensuring all benefits disappear and are replaced with something falling very short of what is required for a Welfare State to maintain a decent living standard, should consider what they themselves could do to assist in paying a similar share of their salaries as is expected from the majority of those lucky enough to be in work, to balance the economy. So come along fellows practice what you preach, give up your subsidized meals and alcoholic drinks, give up your perks and cut your salaries to match those that your constituents are required to make. Surely, the national deficit - that has to be paid back - applied to all citizens of the U.K. without exemptions?

Mike Newman is a member of The Dunstable And District Senior Citizens Club. If you have a view on any of the issues raised why not attend one of their monthly meetings, held on the last Thursday of the month at St Marys Catholic Social Club, West St., Dunstable. 24

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At Home In The Garden A toilet that won’t flush, sinks that won’t empty, grates that overflow, and an unpleasant smell are all tell-tale signs that there is a blockage or damage to the pipes, drains or sewers that service your property. But who is responsible for carrying out the work? Since October 2011, homeowners are responsible only for the maintenance of pipes or drains on their own property. Once they cross the boundary line onto the pavement or road, they become the responsibility of the water company. In addition, the water company is liable for all shared sewers (i.e. drains that meet from more than one building) even if they are on private land. So, how do you find out where the blockage is? A chat with a neighbour or a quick look into the inspection chamber should give you a clue. Most blockages can be easily cleared and you could have a go yourself with drainage rods, but as it’s a dirty, smelly job, or if you are struggling to locate the source, you might want to call in a specialist. Occasionally, blockages occur due to a collapsed or broken drain, in which case you will need a professional to inspect the damage and quote for remedial work. You can choose whoever you like to repair drains on your own property.

Domestic Fencing... Fact Or Fiction? There’s often confusion about who is responsible for maintaining fencing between adjoining properties. This information may help. Fiction -

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In The Garden

Herb Gardens

Nature tends to dictate what we do in the garden and sometimes it’s just too late to plant those seeds, too early to prune that bush and incredibly you are already on top of the weeding. So what can you do to fulfil that urge to work the land? Why start a herb garden of course! Most activity on your plot is tied to the seasons, but this month we take a look at one project that can be started off at almost any time of the year - your own herb garden. As we’ve taken to growing more and more of our own food so we have found ourselves getting increasingly interested in trying out new recipes to make the most of all those lovely fresh flavours. Recipe books abound in our kitchen and they all have one thing in common - the use of herbs, and what a variety of them there is! Whether you’re looking for a sprig of fresh mint, a handful of rosemary, or some chopped chives what could be better than being able to choose and harvest them right outside your own back door? Choosing the right site for your herb garden is important, and outside your back door is often a good place to start! Planting near the kitchen makes it easy to pop out for a few fresh leaves when you

are cooking, and many of us have a patio which can easily become home to a variety of container grown herbs. Herbs can make an attractive, fragrant and tasty addition to your borders, or you may prefer to opt for a permanent herb bed. If this is the case you will need to give some consideration to containing the growth of some of the more vigorous varieties. This can be done by dividing the bed (a cartwheel design made with bricks is very attractive), or by using pots sunk into the ground. Herbs comprise of both annual plants, that germinate, grow, flower and die within the year, and perennials that will grow on from one year to the next. Whatever you plant, you will need to find out which type it is and the conditions that it favours. The more hardy perennial types such as thyme, rosemary or mint may be happy outside all year round. One of

the advantages of using containers is that tender varieties can be moved under cover during the worst of the winter and even tender annuals like basil can have their season extended by lifting plants to pot up and keep on the kitchen windowsill as autumn approaches. One of the great things about a herb garden is that it can be continually evolving. Look upon it as just the start of a collection, that will grow with time. Adding a new variety can be as simple as picking up a plant that takes your fancy on a trip out and adding a new pot to your collection. As well as using herbs fresh from the garden, you can dry leaves by hanging in bunches and then storing in an airtight container, or use ice cube trays to freeze chopped up leaves with a drop of water. Store the cubes in polythene bags, great for adding to a stew in the middle of winter!

A beginners guide to…

Dead Heading & Seed Collecting

You will nearly always get more flowers for longer if you can spend some time regularly ‘dead-heading’. That means removing faded flowers to stimulate the development of more flowers, and of new shoots on shrubs and roses. If the dying flowers are left until they form seed pods, the plant thinks its job is done for the year and it won’t bother to produce any more flowers. However, with many of your plants, which have probably cost a packet from the local garden centre, you may want to leave some of the flowers until seed heads are produced so that you can collect the seeds and grow your own plants next season, saving plenty of money. Try it with plants with quite large seeds to start with, like Marigolds or try Aquilega (Grandmother’s Bonnets) or Foxgloves. When the seed capsules turn brown and start to split, cut them off and spread on paper lined trays until they’re fully dry. Take out the seeds and store in small labelled envelopes until ready for sowing. They may not grow exactly the same in character and quality as the original plants but it’s great fun to watch the results of your efforts spring into life.

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sports seats, sports steering wheel and aluminium detailing inside and out. On the move, the A3 Sport oil-burner, although perched on firm and athletic springs, is not uncomfortable and it sticks to some of England’s more twisty roads like a limpet. There is plenty of room for you and your passenger in the front, although your friends in the rear seats might find it hard to stretch their legs out. That said, all the seats are supportive and the 2.0-litre 150 TDI lump allows you to accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 8.6 seconds. But the car doesn’t stop there; where legal the needle will spin way up the dial to 134 mph. The rapid acceleration is made all the more easy to achieve thanks to the all-new A3’s slick six-speed manual gearbox. Not only is this first-class hatchback’s turbo diesel engine quick, it is also highly fuel efficient. Engine start-stop technology and energy recuperation systems enable the A3 2.0 TDI Sport to achieve up to 68.9 mpg – and this is the selling point. Yes, the Audi is quick, comfortable and stylish – but, more importantly, it will keep you from frequently forking out at the pumps.

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Helping Reluctant Readers You Looking At Me? So Are Over 18,000

Potential New Customers! A study published a while back and reported in The Teaching Times claimed that 42% of children have lost interest in reading by the age of 11. If that’s true it’s incredibly sad. Blame is apportioned to politicians, teachers, the TV and internet, but blame doesn’t achieve anything. Instead, as parents what can we do to encourage our children to engage with literature? Try these great tips to engage reluctant readers.

et them see you reading! It sounds obvious but it works. Read some funny bits from your own book aloud to them, or try an interesting newspaper article.

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ry to schedule a small part of the day for reading. It doesn’t even have to be them reading. My ten-year-old son still loves me to read to him…especially when I put on accents and voices to suit the characters. Lose your inhibitions and have fun with reading and your children will follow suit.

ry a joke book or nonsense poetry books. Kids love jokes and rhymes, the sillier the better. They won’t even realise they are reading as they regale you with their new-found anecdotes and ditties.

se the power of movies. My ten-year-old really engaged with reading when he saw the first Harry Potter movie. He read the book straight afterwards and realised how much richer in detail it was compared with the film. From then on he was hooked. By Sarah Davey

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33 39

The Nutrition Coach

Is Dairy Good? The Problems with Dairy… Lactose Intolerance:

A lot of studies have shown that humans can’t tolerate lactose (milk sugar) after the age of 4. This means that many of us lose the ability to digest dairy products properly. If you come from a herding culture when milk/dairy has been consumed for thousands of years then you may be a bit more tolerant to dairy. Most of us however, can’t really handle that much milk or dairy. The problem is that when we get bloated or suffer from diarrhoea, we tend to reach for the pills and tablets instead of looking for nutritional reasons why. Dairy and in particular lactose, could be the culprit.

Casein Intolerance:

If I may start by quoting Voltaire, he said “Common sense is not that common”. I believe this is the key when it comes to dairy and milk consumption. If we think about dairy logically, why would we drink another animal’s milk? The other question is why would we drink any kind of milk after weaning? The answer simply put, is that we don’t need to drink another animal’s milk and we certainly don’t need to drink milk after breast feeding. Eyebrows tend to be raised when I say something like this because we have been made to believe that dairy is a staple for humans. The fact is that dairy is not necessary for human beings although breast milk on the other hand is important for babies to grow. 34

Casein is the protein found in milk and dairy. Casein has some similarities to gluten. Gluten (protein and wheat) is linked to leaky gut or eroding of the intestinal wall. In the book “The China Study” Casein heavily linked to cancer development. The following is taken from the Live Strong website “Casein is thick, coarse and often used to form the strongest glue known to man. It’s also a strong mucus-forming substance. There is 300% more Casein in cow’s milk than in human milk. Due to this high amount of Casein in the diet, the human respiratory system can become clogged and irritated.

Dairy and Skin Problems

In the “Paleo Diet” Dr Loren Cordain is quite damming of dairy. In one particular blog, he quotes five studies that link excess milk and whey protein to acne. While there doesn’t seem to be anything concrete here, I would recommend cutting dairy out for a few weeks if you do have skin problems.

It’s the calcium, stupid!

Hang on, they scream! Doesn’t dairy and milk provide us with vitamins such as calcium? This is a very questionable point and the challenge is that we barely absorb the calcium from cow’s milk, particularly if it has been pasteurized. The other paradox is that milk is actually very acidic, which actually erodes bones. This happens because the body uses the calcium from the bones to neutralize the acidic effect of the milk and dairy. It does make you think, doesn’t it? Consumption of dairy products, particularly at the age of 20 years, was associated with an increased risk of hip fracture in old age. “Case-Control Study of Risk Factors for Hip Fractures in the Elderly” (American Journal of Epidemiology. Vol. 139, No. 5, 1994)

Conclusion

If we look at modern milk and dairy consumption, it isn’t linked to health. The truth is that we ‘re not very healthy. If we look at cultures like the native Swiss who, by all accounts drank a lot of raw milk, the difference in health from these populations and modern society is huge. Read “Weston A Price” for further information). The native Swiss drank milk that was milked by hand. The cows ate grass and weren’t injected with hormones and antibiotics like modern day cattle are.

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Very reasonable rates Quick turnaround Stage payments accepted on restorations Work carried out by Andy Thomas - ex F1 sidecar racer The UK is one of the top three countries in the world for the highest incidence of allergy! An estimated 21 million adults in the UK suffer from at least one allergy and an estimated 10 million suffer from more than one. These are the latest startling figures given by Allergy UK, but you may be surprised to learn that the figure of people affected adversely by food, chemicals and airborne substances may be much higher, as these figures only cover those suffering from a true allergy, when many are actually suffering from a different type of allergic reaction known as ‘intolerance ‘or ‘sensitivity’. This can give a wide variety of symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, dark circles under the eyes, night sweats, migraine, digestive symptoms such as bloating or diarrhoea, skin problems such as eczema and many more. As these symptoms can take up to 72 hours to show themselves, it can sometimes be difficult to work out what is causing your low mood or fuzzy brain, but you could try keeping a food diary. If you find a food you suspect, try leaving it (and everything containing it) out of your diet for at least 2 weeks. If you feel better, then continue to avoid it for at least another 10 weeks to give your body time to forget the reaction it had previously, before reintroducing it slowly. You may find that several foods seem to be a problem and the quantity you eat may also be relevant, so you have to be quite vigilant with this. Supplements such as Vitamin C, Quercetin and Bromelain can act as a very effective natural anti histamine for some people who suffer with this type of reaction and be very helpful, as can taking a good digestive enzyme product from your local health shop, as low natural levels of these chemicals can be a factor in digestive issues. Jacquey O’Brien Libra Health 01525 378894/07990 976207

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Men! Read This It Could Save Your Life

Testicular cancer

is relatively rare, yet it is the most common type of cancer to affect men aged between 15 and 44. Factors that can increase the risk include having a family history of the disease, and being born with undescended testicles. Rates of the disease are also five times higher in white men than in black men. Thankfully, the outlook for men diagnosed with testicular cancer is one of the best for all types of cancer. Over 95% of cases of men with early stage testicular cancer will be completely cured. Even cases where the cancer has spread outside the testicles have an 80% chance of being cured. As with other cancers, early detection improves your prognosis and can reduce the amount of treatment necessary. The most common symptom to look out for is a painless lump or swelling in a testicle. Read how to examine yourself below, but be aware that fewer than 4 in 100 testicular lumps are cancerous. Other symptoms may include a dull ache or a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum. Sometimes, testicular cancer can spread to the lymph glands at the back of the abdomen, which can cause backache. Lumps can also form in the lymph glands around the neck and collarbone. Testicular cancer can spread to the lymph nodes in the centre of the chest. This leads to swelling, a cough and difficulty in breathing or swallowing. The cancer cells may also spread to the lungs themselves causing breathlessness, but they do not usually affect other organs. Treatment of testicular cancer involves surgically removing the affected testicle. This should not affect fertility or the ability to have sex, and a false testicle can be put in place so that the scrotum will have a normal appearance. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy or additional surgery may also be required, depending on the type and spread of the disease. 38

How To Examine Yourself You should check your testicles regularly – once a month is a good interval. The best time to do this is after a warm bath or shower when your scrotal skin will be relaxed. Hold the scrotum in the palms of your hands and use your fingers and thumb to gently feel each testicle. Look out for any lumps or swellings, or an increase in size or weight. (You should feel a soft tube at the back of each testicle – this is normal). It is rare to develop cancer in both testicles at the same time, so you can compare one with the other to see what is normal. If you notice anything unusual, contact your GP as soon as possible. ow ll N o a C T

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H l a r tu a h n t l a e H Health natural

Fantastic Fruits By Sue Blain

o doubt you’ve been enjoying some fresh, local strawberries, full of vitamin C and folic acid, good for the heart and for whitening teeth too, apparently. Soon it’ll be local raspberries and cherries but a few months before we can help ourselves to free blackberries. All berries are packed full of anti-aging antioxidents, especially blueberries and cranberries that can also inhibit urinary infections. Cherries, classed as anti-inflammatory, contain cholesterol-lowering properties, as do many fruits such as cranberries, avocados and the strangely named dragon fruit. Sliced fresh pineapples and papaya, containing the enzymes bromain and papain respectively, are a good way to start any meal as they aid digestion. In fact papaya is ACE, containing loads of those very vitamins and, like kiwis, also high in minerals. Canteloupe and water melons, containing lycopene and potassium, like tomatoes and blueberries, are reputedly good for the memory. Pomegranates have been used in the Middle East since ancient times for medicinal purposes. It was linked to fertility and rebirth, the root bark used to treat intestinal parasites. It is described as an excellent heart tonic, due to its high potassium, folic acid and iron content. Red grapes, containing lots of resveratrol, are also apparently good for the heart but not to overdo them if you need to keep a check on sugar levels. Recently laboratory tests have demonstrated that grape seed extract slows down Alzheimer’s and kills head and neck cancer cells. Interest is also being shown in the

Naturopathic Practitioner

possible cancer-inhibiting qualities of blueberries, pineapples, papaya, olives and avocados but the fruit that has undergone the most testing for its anti-cancer qualities is the South American fruit known in different regions as Sour Sop, Graviola or Guanobano. The bark, leaves, roots, fruits and seeds have been used for centuries to treat heart disease, asthma, liver problems and arthritis. I recently tracked down the juice, Guanobano, in Luton market at the Jamaican stall but fresh fruit is hard to obtain. Supplements are available in health shops. Lauric acid, the main fatty acid found in coconut oil, has antiviral, bacteria and parasite functions as guava and olive very likely have. Olive oil is now widely used in salads and light cooking. Ayervedic medicine recommends mangos as being good for the heart, skin, eyes, liver, and as a natural diuretic. And so the list goes on. Years ago we were eating fruit , usually just apples, pears, oranges, grapes and bananas, for some sweet juicy food, then also for their vitamin and mineral content, later as part of our 5-a-day and now for their other great qualities, almost medicinal in fact . So medicine or tasty fruit? No contest!!

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                                  3   2     4 3 

              Answers on   page 46             2        9  7 6    8    2 9   3

Sudoku 数独 1 6

9 2 6

8 4 3

                   HARMER   

5 6 7

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Crossword

                                           

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Out&About

• Clubs • Groups • Events THE DUNSTABLE ORBIT CLUB • Community

“The more you put in, the more you get out” is certainly true for the members of Dunstable and District Orbit Club. Since its inception over 20 years ago, the club has raised thousands of pounds for local and national charities from events such as quizzes, race nights, stalls HARLINGTON CARNIVAL Enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk CHILTERN GATEWAY CENTRE WATLING STREET CLUB at Carnivals etc. With only 1 months to go www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk However, there is more to Orbit than the comradeship We are an independent social club for ex-Rotarians and Harlington-On-Sea Carnival is fast 01582 865966 Sue or Julian 50 things Activitiesevents. and teamwork involved in organising fundraising similarly minded people and have been in existence for approaching. Sunday 4th August & The emphasis is very much on having fun in all their nearly 3 years. We are named ‘The Watling Street Club’ BREAKOUT SOCIAL CLUB Hold the date: 21st September 2013! activities including a wideSunday range of1st social pursuits 2-3pm such as September as our members form a link along the Watling We Street. are a club for the over forty fives, Procession starts at 12:30 from Park. archery, 10-pin bowling, cinema/theatres, guided walks, We meet every Thursday evening at the ‘Old Hunter’s FREE EVENT not a singles club but a social club progressive meals etc. The club plan events to suit all Lodge’ Whipsnade for a meal and speaker. Bring are the free kids or and uscost. on the first for people who enjoy going and out many but of them MEDIEVAL DUNSTABLE budgets at join a low New members are welcome. For more information are on their own, also where theyis only £10 Sunday of the month get involve with As partJohn of Medieval Dunstable, we Membership annually. contact Stevens 01582 668033 can meet like minded people,are make Meetings on the first and third Tuesdays of to each have produced two audio tours on National Trusts 50 thing do before new friends and enjoy a varied D.A.W.G. CLUB month at thesocial Dunstable Rugby Club, the same machine. TheSOCIAL first is of the you’reBedford 11 and Road ¾. , life in a safe and friendly environHoughton Regis 8pm. You’ll be guaranteed a warm We are a small and friendly Hidden Priory, which we Dunstable lost at the based social Each Sunday you’ll get to cross anment. We a week, we welcome. group once a month a wide variety of meet once time meeting of the Reformation. It iswith narrated other539379, fantastic activity off you list and now have a room in the Conservative Contact Mark on 01582 speakers the winter and outdoor by Jeanduring Yates with characters voiced events and High Street North Dunstable Julie .on 01582 535761 getwww.orbitclub.org.uk/dunstable outdoors and discover something visits duringYoung, the summer. Eachand year we alsoClub, arrange two by Chris Phil Baker Annual fee -£26 evenings with a meal and professional entertainment. new! We’ll be taking the kids to exPheobe Thenew text members was written more information please contact DUNSTABLE BRIDGE CLUB to dress We wouldClear. welcome (couplesFor and singles). plore outdoors so remember byfurther Tony Woodhouse. The asecond is whySandy For information and free visit not contact on 07813 262556We meet every Monday (except bank holidays) in Chews for the weather. of the Brian onPriory 01525Church. 754189.It is narrated House in High Street South, Dunstable, from 1pm to by Veronica Yates and the text was FRIENDS OF STUDHAM5pm. COMMON We would welcome new members of all standards writtenDUNSTABLE by Hugh Garrod.GARDEN The audio CLUB We are a friendly,voluntary group and you do not need a partner.Eid Festival guides can be hired the in whose 11th01582 August664485 If anyone is interested please call: Dunstable Garden Clubfrom meet onshop the second Monday aim is to conserve,maintain Priory of House. The hiring fee is £2.50 evening each month at 7.30pm at the Salvation Army Studham Common as and promote 12noon - 6pm FREE EVENT with a returnable deposit of £10Dunstable. Community Hall, Bull Pond Lane, The Club DOWNS CONSERVATION a haven for wildlife BLOWS and a place for A fun filled day for peopleGROUP of all ages, has been in existence for many years and maintaining everyone to enjoy.For this purpose Join our friendly guided walk athost blows downs dunstable with a of activities to enjoy.on a steady membership. The subscription is only £10 per 1ST TOTTERNHOE BROWNIES we meet as a worksunday party on Julythe 3rd. the walk willforbethe a short 2 miles but unduJoin us Eid festival at Dunstayear which entitles members to attend eight winter Small Brownie Pack ‘only down the third Saturday of each lating, at a leisurly on the way we talk about the month (ex- pace. meetings with speakers and a selection of summer ble Downs, everyone is welcome. hill to Totternhoe’ flora andonerous fauna of this wildlife trust owned nature reserve cept Dec.) is not outings from May onwards to various interesting and The work thethe Bedfordshire countryside which will include area of chalk pits where the wild If you are garden interested come along and we enjoy the exercise and the theEnjoy well-known venues. orchids should be in abundance. for an are evening and findatout and activities such as nature trails, Visitors very welcome £2how each so why notcompany come good –and a picnic lunch at the far end offace Halfpainting, moon lane , dunstable 3pm. muchfun yousome can have. bouncy castle,at children along and meet of the members whoiswould love DetailsMeet provided! from on details, tony Tel. forPam further bliss 01582 704664. available toSpaces see fresh faces. entertainers and henna artists. Join in 01582 872608 Tuesday Evening ‘s term time craft and music workshops and the CHILTERN CEILIDHS 6.00pm – 7.30pm BREATHEASY many other arts & crafts activities. Chiltern Ceilidhs a regular ceilidh/barn dance on the Ages 7 – 10 suffer from a lung condi2nd Friday of the month. All ages welcome,Do noyou experiDon’t forget Church to browse the many St Fremund’s Please contact Zoe Hurry tion? Then why not come and join ence required and live music from our house band interesting stalls as well 01582 666942 our local Support group breathevery month! The dances start at 8pm (doors open at Westfield Road, Dunstable 7.30pm) and tickets are £7 (£5 conc) with easy under- Part 10s of the British lung Get outside and explore this summer! BRAY TAVERNERS getting EATON in free. Venue: The Polish Club, Albion street, foundation. We meet on the 2nd Dunstable, LU6 3AZ CLUB BRIDGE 19-31 August, 11am-4pm Thursday of the month at peter newContact: 01582 475655, The club meets every Friday eventon pavilion (Behind tesco) 2 - 4pm Get outdoors this summer, we’ll have email: chilternceilidhs@googlmail.com or visit our also welcome ing from 7.30-10.30pm at the carers giant outdoor games, fun activites and website: www.chilternceilidhs.info Methodist Church, Eaton Bray High As well as supporting each other we don’t forget to complete our advenSt. to play duplicate bridge. THE BOGTROTTERS have a variety of speakers and also ture trail. There will be a small charge £1Bogtrotters for members, £2 for and visitors. Contact: for Mrs Talbot arrange day trips out. The (Dunstable District Walking and HostheNicola trail. Tel: Group) 01525 221779 New members telling are a group of about 90 walkers, hikers and most welcome 01582604847 More info phone michael on hostellers. We run a surprisingly diverse range of activities, Wild wednesday admin@dunstableswimmingpools.co.uk THE including half andBOGTROTTERS full day walks, hostelling trips, meals602348 and 01582 The Bogtrotters Every wednesday from evening activities. (Dunstable and District Walking and Hostelling New members are always welcome. Prospective members THE HEALING TRUST 7 Aug - 4 Sept - 2 hour session aregeta in group 90 areGroup) invited to touchofviaabout the website, giveArdley us a ring HillorSchool, Lowther Road, Summer holiday fun exploring differjust turn up hikers to an event walk. walkers, and or hostellers. We Dunstable, each Thursday evening, ent natural themes each week. Get enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk 7.30 - 9pm. No charge, donations run a surprisingly diverse range of the kids back to nature and creating www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk activities, including half and full day accepted. NFSH contact Pam Hill on fantastic items each week. 01582 865966 Sue ortrips, Julianmeals and 01582 606182. walks, hostelling Come for interest or healing. evening activities. THE HEALING TRUST For Information: New members are always welcome. Ardley Hill School, Lowther Dunstable, each Chilterns Gateway Centre Shop, Prospective members areRoad, invited to Thursday evening, - 9pm. Nogive charge, donations get in touch via7.30 the website, 01582 500925 accepted. NFSH contact PamtoHill us a ring or just turn up an on event 01582 606182. Come for interest or healing. or walk.

HALL FOR HIRE Regular slots available HALL HIRE or for FOR family parties

DUNSTABLE NETBALL CLUB The Club’s objective is to foster and promote the sport of netball, providing opportunities for recreation and competition. Dunstable Netball Club Junior session is held at All Saints Academy, Houghton Road, Dunstable, Bedfordshire LU5 5AB from 6pm till 7.15 on Thursday evenings. Children are required to wear suitable training shoes, bring a drink and £3.00 subscription fees per week. The adult session is held at All Saints Academy, as above from 7.30 - 9.00 on Thursday evenings. It is open to all ages and abilities and is a great way to get fit, have fun and make new friends. £3.00 subscription fee per week Junior membership of the Club is open to : Boys in School years 5 & 6 Females in School Year 5 to adult Children aged 8 (school year 4) will be accepted if a Club Coach deems them to have exceptional development qualities and on the agreement of the committee. For further information, find us on Facebook(Dunstable Net-ball Club)

DUNSTABLE GARDEN CLUB After the cold winter it is wonderful to get out into the garden again and enjoy the colour and scents of Spring. The Club has monthly outings to various well known gardens such as Beth Chatto’s, the Wisbech Rose Festival, Audley End and Waterperry. Our evening talks on different horticultural topics start again in September to April. If you are interested in joining us the annual subscription is £10. More info from - Mary Chapman 01582 603710

DUNSTABLE SENIOR CITIZENS What age would you like to live to? Would you like to live it with Dignity, Financial peace of mind, With a voice We are a local group fighting the fight for the over 50’s Interested in finding out more? Come to a meeting We meet the last Thursday of each month at 2pm In the Social club of The Catholic Church in West Street Dunstable Or call for more information on 01582 534357

TEA TIME TALES Priory House Heritage Centre Tel: 01582 890270 Local History Talks with Tea/Coffee Thursday 2.30pm, - 4.00pm £4.50 per person 5th Sept Land & Lead Mines Owned By The Priory. 19th Sept The Medieval Wool Merchants Of Dunstable.

TABLE TOP & CAR BOOT SALE Saturday 14Th September 10Am – 1Pm Toddington Methodist Church Hall Tables £5 each Car 4 pitches £7.50 Each Booking essential payment in advance Refreshments available To book Tel: 01525 635299

DOG GROOMING

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Saturday 28th Sept 2013

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Did you know there’s a very special gift shop in Toddington that donates ALL its profits to Charity?

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Please support us & visit The Little Shop is based on the Green in Toddington. We stock a wide range of contemporary & beautiful gifts & cards for adults & children. Great Prices – many products sold at below the RRP.

Run by volunteeRs, we donate 100% of pRofits to chaRity Open Mon 9-3, Tues/Wed 9-12, Thurs/Fri 9-5, Sat 10-4 • 36 Market Square Toddington