The Vine Dunstable - August / September 2024 by The Vine Magazine

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Greetings from Christ Church Dunstable!

“Space is big. You just won't believe how vastly, hugely, mind-bogglingly big it is. I mean, you may think it's a long way down the road to the chemist's, but that's just peanuts to space.” Douglas Adams

One of my favourite series of books is the ‘Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’ a series of five books written by Douglas Adams. It is a Sci-fi comedy series which has some fantastic humour and interesting concepts. One of the recurring themes of the series is how big space is and how small we are compared to it.

In the second book, one of the characters comes across something called ‘The total perspective vortex’ which is used as a punishment. The victim is put inside it and listen to what happens:

“When you are put into the Vortex you are given just one momentary glimpse of the entire unimaginable infinity of creation, and somewhere in it a tiny little marker, a microscopic dot on a microscopic dot, which says ‘You are here’”. The result being that the victim goes insane due to their own infinite insignificance.

When we look at facts about the size of the heavens above us, of how 1,000 earths could fit into Jupiter, and of how one million earths could fit inside the sun, and of how there are billions of stars in our galaxy, and billions of galaxies in the universe, it can make us feel pretty small.

Who are we compared to that?

But I haven’t brought you here to give you an existential crisis. If you read Psalm 8 in The Bible, you get the feeling that the author of the Psalm,

a man called David, had been spending time out in the field doing a bit of star gazing. You can see David being amazed by the bigness of the sky above him.

Listen to verses 3 and 4,

“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them? The son of man that you care for him.”

When David says these words, he isn’t saying it out of despair because he assumes that he is too insignificant for God to care about, rather he is marvelling at the truth of the fact that even though he is microscopic on a cosmic scale, he is incredibly precious to God.

And do you know what? So are you!

David is marvelling at the amazing intimate care that God has. It reminds us that God isn’t distant and far away from us. In fact, God has come as far as physically living among us as Jesus, the Son of God; who lived, died, and rose again to live. Through Jesus, we are welcomed into the care of God as his children.

You might be a speck on our microscopic cosmic dot, but you are not a mistake, and you are precious to God.

Kite Connect Festival Returns To Dunstable Downs

National Trust Brings Kites Connect Festival to Chiltern Gateway Centre

Kites Connect Festival is a revival of the popular Kite Fest last held in 2018. With a fresh perspective and a deepened commitment to serving our local community, it's more than just a kite festival; it's a celebration of unity and access in our local green spaces.

The Dunstable Downs Kite Festival was for many years the highlight of our summer at Dunstable Downs, a remarkable event that saw the skies come alive with the colourful and dynamic art of professional kite flying. However, operational challenges were a constant part of this journey, and the last Kite Festival was held in 2018.

But that wasn’t the end of the story. Since then, the National Trust have been hard at work, driven by a vision to revive the festival with a fresh perspective and a deepened commitment to serving the local community.

Bringing the Dunstable Downs Kite Festival back to life is a vital step in their community strategy to connect with a diverse audience and break down barriers to access. The re-focused festival aims to create an environment where visitors from all walks of life can come together to enjoy kite flying, the fresh air, and breathtaking views. Kites Connect Festival will therefore have a more authentic and audiencecentric feel, closer to the values that the National Trust have worked hard to instil in their programming over the years. The festival will once again include a 90-meter arena hosting a mesmerising display of kites from professional and amateur groups from around the world. Commentary depicting the fascinating history of kite flying across cultures and a celebration of Dunstable Down's heritage. A range of workshops for all to get involved in. Global flavours from diverse food stalls. Local produce and crafts and the usual offering from the Visitor Centre, cafe and shop.

The free two day festival will take place on 17th & 18th August, 10am - 5pm

New Pergola Project For Priory Gardens

A wooden pergola currently stands in the centre of Priory Gardens in Dunstable between the Priory Church of St Peter and Priory House.

Time has taken its toll and the existing pergola is slowly rotting away despite being well maintained over many years.

A new, black metal pergola with a rounded arch has been suggested, which will reflect the shape of the windows at the back of Priory House and the plan is to use this opportunity to acknowledge the proud heritage of Dunstable and create a ‘Walk Through Time’. The new structure will incorporate features which mark important events in our town’s history.

The Friends of Priory House and Gardens are busy fundraising to support Dunstable Town Council with this project by arranging events throughout the year. If you would like to join the Friends and join in our fundraising events, please email elisabeth.pynn@talk21.com or ask for an application form in Priory House.

Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust!

These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.

These days most homeowners suffer from lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.

These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.

watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value. Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job.

- that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.

installation we carry out!’

every installation we carry out!’

- that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.

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every installation we carry out!’

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Value. materials all our the fact packages served our assured we the time sure spotless and offer price

- that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.

Quality, Value. materials all our the fact packages served our assured we the time sure spotless and offer price afford. relies on get a our calls have

The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise their storage space with a loft ladder, 50sqft of boarding and a light - all fully fitted in less than a day from just £355! But it’s not just the affordability of the package that makes Home Counties

- that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.

every installation we carry out!’

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for

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Counties Loft Ladders, You Can Trust!

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’

on get a our calls have us by customers

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for

Counties Loft Ladders, You Can Trust!

Loft Ladders stand out, as manager Jamie Oakley explains: ‘Our

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9560 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft! Counties Loft

301 9560 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft! Counties

every installation we carry out!’

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9560 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808

Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford.

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9560 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford.

Home Counties

Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to us by our existing customers

Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust!

Ladders, Quality You Can Trust!

Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust!

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9560 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

301 9560 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808

301 9560 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9560 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can

These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.

Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to us by our existing customers

These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.

Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to us by our existing customers

These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.

Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to us by our existing customers

The company, based locally, offers

These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.

watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value.

- that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.

These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.

The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise

The company, based locally, offers

The company,

The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise

Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job.

- that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation carry out!’

the

Integrity in that we

Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure

Need more storage space?

- that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for

Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for

Integrity in that we - that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.

every installation carry out!’ So, if you use of your call Jamie 301 9560 happy to give you a quote so make use

So, if you use of your call Jamie 301 9560 happy to give you a quote so make use

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to every installation carry out!’

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation carry out!’ So, if you use of your call Jamie 301 9560 happy to give you a quote so make use

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to

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Hello

again!

from Appledown Rescue Kennels Mabel’s News

I am Mabel the resident dog at Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels in Eaton Bray.

Hello H ugo!

Every now and again a dog comes in to the �ennels that stays with us much longer than expected and we can’t understand why� �andsome �ugo� a lurcher just such a dog. �ith his sweet nature and good lead manners he has �ecome a favourite with the volunteer wal�ers� �ut somehow the right family just hasn’t come along yet. �e would love a home where he gets a couple of good on and then he will �e very happy to relax on a sofa. �ugo could pro�a�ly live with another dog pending introductions �ut not cats and he will need a well garden. Please visit our we�site for details a�out adoption and an application form

Every now and again a dog comes in to the kennels that stays with us much longer than expected and we can’t understand why! Handsome Hugo, a lurcher aged 3, is just such a dog. With his sweet nature and good lead manners he has become a favourite with the volunteer walkers, but somehow the right family just hasn’t come along yet. He would love a home where he gets a couple of good on-lead walks a day and then he will be very happy to relax on a sofa. Hugo could probably live with another dog pending introductions but not cats and he will need a well-fenced garden. Please visit our website for details about adoption and an application form. To support our work you can make a one-off donation of £3 by texting APPLE to 70111, or donate via Paypal using the ‘DONATE Support a Cause’ option. Cheques are very welcome too!

To support our wor� you can ma�e a one off donation of �� y texting APP�E to �� or donate via Paypal using the ‘DONATE Support a Cause’ option. Cheques are very welcome too�

Appledown Rescue & Rehoming Kennels, Harling Road, Eaton Bray, Beds LU6 1QY 01525 220383 (10am-1pm & 2-4 pm) e-mail: appledown.kennels@btinternet.com Website: www.appledownrescue.co.uk Viewings are by appointment only

Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels

Harling Road, Eaton Bray, Beds LU6 1QY

(Reg. Charity No. 1116848)

Call 01525 220383 (10am-1pm & 2-4 pm)

E-mail appledown.kennels@btinternet.com. www.appledownrescue.co.uk

Harling Road, Eaton Bray, Beds LU6 1QY

Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels

I need a home!

William the Conqueror

and the Normans - Part II

William was very fond of hunting and he turned many areas of the country into royal hunting forests (eg the New Forest) which often followed forced evacuation of families. Ordinary English villagers were nearly always close to starvation so the temptation to poach was very high. But if anyone was caught, punishments could be very severe indeed ranging from the loss of an ear or an eye, to a finger or fingers, a hand or a leg, total blinding, or hanging for the most serious crime of taking a “royal” deer.

The term “forest” didn’t actually mean an area of trees : rather it denoted an area subjected to specific laws designed to protect the hunting rights of the King. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicles explains it thus :-“The King set many deer free and laid a law upon it: that whoever slew a hind should be blinded. And as he forbade the killing of harts, so he forbade the killing of boars. He decreed also that hares must go free”. So that he and his cronies could kill them instead! The severe laws and restrictions thus imposed by William 1st were made even more restrictive during the reign of his son, William 2nd. Although William 1st was a hard and cruel man, William 2nd was vicious and life in all its aspects was extremely tough for those at the bottom of society. From very early on in the Norman dominance, a Feudal System was set up. This was a pyramidal system with the king at the top. There was then a series of increasingly subordinate levels separating those who were “free” (approximately 5% of the

population) from those who were “tied” (95%). But in both groups there were degrees of freedomand a strict pecking order prevailed - with each tier being answerable to the one above.

William had given land to those who had helped him in his campaign and these lands, in turn, were split down into manors with the Lord of the Manor (usually a knight) at the immediate head. However, the lord had people under his control who were free to a certain extent, eg the Reeve. He was basically the “foreman” for the manor and made sure that the lord’s daily wishes were carried out by the peasants. He would be granted a generous plot of land for his own use. A Burgess was a businessman who needed sufficient freedom to move around his immediate area or around the country. But he might not be allowed to actually leave the country; this priviledge was only granted to the Burgesses of the City of London (and later to the Burgesses of Dunstaple under Henry 1st). Such burgesses were the elite of the non-aristocratic elite.

Of the “tied” peasants, the Villein (or Villager) might have 50+ acres of land for his own purpose whereas a Bordar (or Smallholder) might have only 20 or 30. A Cottar (or Cottager) was further down the ladder and might be given as little as 5 or 10 acres whilst a Slave had no land at all.

Such people were required to pay degrees of rental to the Lord for the land allowed and were also expected to fight on his behalf should the need arise. Furthermore, each was expected to

The Feudal System

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By Paul Heley

give varying numbers of days labour per week on the lord’s land, eg a villein might give one day to the Lord, Bordars and Cottars might give 2 or 3 days (for either a pittance of money or food) whilst a Slave had to give all of his time to the lord. For this he would be supplied with a hovel in which to live and a small amount of food for his family. A slave was at the very bottom of the social pile. In general, tied peasants (again, with degrees of privilege) were not allowed to leave the manor or to marry - especially outside the manor - without the Lord’s permission. Slaves, in particular, could spend their entire lives within the confines of their manor. But nothing was laid down by law, and individual conditionsand the generosity of the lord - varied considerably from manor to manor. William tended to spend Christmas at Gloucester and in 1085 he had a great idea - how to find out exactly how much land and valuable possessions he owned - and, therefore, how much tax he could exact. Although he’d conquered England roughly 20 years earlier, he really didn’t know.

Reeve and serfs

Over the next year he formulated a plan and discussed it with his barons and earls at Old Sarum (near Salisbury) and in 1086, finally put it into operation. The published results of this extensive survey which followed is known as The Domesday Book (where Domesday = Doomsday = Final day of judgement = No argument!)

Enumerators were sent all over the country - a total of 13418 individual towns and villages were visited – and the findings returned to Winchester (the former capital of England). The complete survey was divided into 7 districts with Beds, Bucks, Cambs, Herts and Middlesex being in East Midlands. The whole survey was a massive undertaking. With regard to our immediate area, there is no record for Dunstable - it didn’t exist in 1086. Although there had been the Roman town of Durocobrivis, the Romans had abandoned it in AD410 and it had continued for a century or so during Romano-British times. But in 571 it was attacked and destroyed by Saxons - who rebuilt a small village which, in turn, was destroyed by Vikings in 921. In 1086, therefore, the enumerators found only burnt ruins - there was

nothing to include. But surrounding villages such as Houstone (Houghton (Regis)), Tottenhou (Totternhoe), Pileworde (Tilsworth), Canesworde (Kensworth), Edingeberge (Edlesborough) were included. When visiting an estate, enumerators asked many questions (of immense value to historians) :the name of the estate ; who held it in the time of King Edward ; who holds it now ; how many hides are there (a hide is taken as 120 acres) ; how many ploughs are there on the Lord’s land ; how many ploughs are there among the peasants ; how many villeins are there ; how many bordars ; how many cottars ; how many slaves ; how many free men ; how much woodland ; how much meadow ; how much pasture ; how many mills ; how many fishponds ; how much has been added or taken away ; how much, in total, was it formerly worth and how much is it worth now? It was also asked whether more revenue could be taken from the estate than is presently being taken. It is noticeable that in the north of England there was still great poverty and little of value following the Harrying of the North in 1070 ; northern estates had been of far greater worth before the Conquest than they were in 1086.

In contrast, Houstone was (surprisingly) found to be particularly prosperous and had to pay its taxes partly in gold and silver - this was most unusual. It is felt, however, that their prosperity was not due to the excellence of their land but, quite likely, due to the villagers trading on the crossroads (where Dunstable is now) and that such illegal trading was tolerated by their Lord.

NB The time of King Harold 2nd was completely ignored since William regarded him as having never existed! He had been airbrushed out of society so “pre William” meant during the reign of Edward the Confessor so far as William was concerned. Domesday Book is not easy to read and takes a certain amount of deciphering from the much abbreviated medieval Latin - and specific terms also need to be understood. For example, an acre represented a day’s ploughing for one plough team - and a team consisted of 8 oxen. A “hundred” (Dunstable is in Manshead hundred) was a group of manors or estates totalling 100 hides.

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A Design for Life… The Kevin McCloud Column

Designer, writer and television presenter, Kevin McCloud leapt into our consciousness with his vastly successful Grand Designs show on Channel 4. This month, the affable architectural business owner talks about what represents good value when building and renovating our homes.

When it comes to building or renovating our homes, the concept of value is often incredibly personal, not to mention wholly subjective.

What represents good value to one person may not hold the same meaning for another, and with that in mind it’s crucial to consider not just the price tag, but the broader picture of what value means to you.

Take Ben Law’s wooden house, for example. This incredible space was featured in the third series of Grand Designs, way back in 2003. It took more than eight months to complete and cost just £28,000. Ben built the walls using 300 barley bales,

crafting a home that was not only affordable but also deeply connected to its environment.

This project resonated with viewers – in fact 4.5 million tuned in, making it one of the most popular episodes we ever aired. The appeal was not just in its minimal cost, but an embodiment of sustainable living, as well as a profound respect for natural materials. For Ben and for many viewers, all these elements combined to showcase ‘value’.

At the other end of the spectrum, I’ve been in enough homes that are lavished with elegant items. The Quooker tap is one such thing that’s really popular at the moment, despite the fact some models come in at over £2,000.

This might seem extravagant for what it is, but for those who appreciate boiling, filtered or carbonated water at their fingertips, literally, the convenience and time saved might just justify the expense. For some, the high cost is outweighed by the daily pleasure and efficiency it brings, making it a valuable addition to their kitchen.

These examples illustrate that cost isn’t everything, and that’s something worth remembering in an era where the pursestrings feel particularly tight

Instead, at the heart of it, consider what matters to you personally. Beauty, as the saying goes, is in the eye of the beholder, and so is value… and your own perception of this should be the only thing that guides the decisions you make.

Cloudy2Clear, A Local Service With A Smile.

Has Your Double Glazing Steamed

Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up?

Established for over 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows have become the UK’s leading company for domestic glass replacement. Customers are no longer needing to risk their windows by using the dreaded double glazing cowboy down the road, instead, now they can join over 320,000 happy customers and have their glass replaced in an affordable and ethical manner. Remember, a failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed double glazing? If you act now you can avoid any future costly problems.

When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Stephen Moon it became clear that these values

have been held dear for a number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money.

values have been held dear for a number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money.

have been held dear for a number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money.

The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the unit has failed. Stephen commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.

For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www.cloudy2clear.com

When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Stephen Moon it became clear that these values

When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Stephen Moon it became clear that these

For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www.cloudy2clear.com

For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www. cloudy2clear.com

Janet Beard

Home & Garden

Space invaders

How to make space in a home where, seemingly, there is none!

Struggling to ﬁnd space in your home? With a few smart tricks, you can create storage solutions that enable you to maximise every inch space.

The good news is you won’t just satisfy storage aims, functionality and aesthetics; your mental wellbeing may uplift too. After all, a tidy house means a tidy mind, right?

Begin by declutteringremoving items you no longer need can instantly create more room.

Consider the use of light colours and mirrors – these will make any room feel larger by reﬂecting light and creating the illusion of more space.

Also think ‘outside the box’ (literally) at even juncture. Operating vertically, for instance, makes use of your walls for storage – subtle shelving a real winner –thus reducing the need for bulky furniture.

Finally, while custom-built storage solutions are tailored to your speciﬁc needs, every home is unique, and you may have nooks, crannies, recesses, bays and alcoves that offer further unique opportunities for stowing away.

Now you’ve done the basics, here are three tips, per room in the home:

Kitchen

• Install poles with hooks for knives and utensils, and consider freeing up drawer

space by using wallmounted storage

• Add shelves above cabinets for rarely used items

• Consider a ‘mobile kitchen island’ –this will create more counter space and can be tucked away

Hallway

• Mount hooks for coats and bags, to utilise wall space and keep the ﬂoor clear

• Install a narrow console/slim table to provide surface space without taking up much room

• Use over-the-door organisers - great for keeping clear anything from shoes to tea towels, cleaning supplies to stationary

Living Room

• Multi-functional furniture is vital – think items like ottomans with storage, or sofa beds

• Modular shelving will not only let light through, but also works in zoning off areas to give the illusion of space

• Storing items under furniture

is also smart - everything from blankets to magazines or kids’ toys can ﬁnd a discreet spot

Bedroom

• Under-bed storage solutions can keep out-of-season clothes or shoes neatly tucked away

• Draw organisers may not seem revolutionary, but you’ll gain a whole new appreciation for storage in tight spaces

• Using a headboard with built-in storage – literally a bookshelf or cabinet where you need it most

Bathroom

• Back-of-door racks are brilliant for storing towels, toiletries or cleaning supplies

• Corner shelves in a small area such as a bathroom is a great way to maximise space

• Finally, installing a mirrored cabinet will give storage whilst reﬂecting light to make space seem bigger

1st Glass Window Repairs

Leaking

Stage Fright?

If your property is on the market, consider ‘home staging’–the art of decorating to sell.

‘Home staging’, can signiﬁcantly enhance your prospects in the property market. It’s a process – which should be done not just before viewings, but prior to any photos being taken – can not only maximise a ﬁnal sale price, it can also be the difference between your property selling quickly or hanging around.

Here are some essential tips for staging your home so that it will appeal to would-be buyers.

First impressions are key

It all begins at the front door. The exterior of your home – including the entrance – is the ﬁrst thing prospective purchasers will notice. A tidy and welcoming entrance sets the right tone for what (they hope) will follow.

With this in mind, maybe consider repainting your front door, ensuring that the windows are spotless. Perhaps even add a welcoming plant or decorative wreath.

Declutter and clean

Visible mess can distract buyers and make spaces feel smaller and less inviting.

Even though any conﬁrmed buyer will be replacing your goods with their own, decluttering offers the perfect picture of what areas they have to play with. Extend this decluttering to your garden, ensuring it’s tidy and free from weeds.

In addition, a deep clean is just as crucial, and you may even consider re-grouting tiles if necessary.

Ensure your home smells fresh and clean, using subtle fragrances like diffusers or candles to create a pleasant ambiance. Even a small scent lingering in the air can make a big difference.

Opt for neutral colours

While vibrant and bold colours may well reﬂect your own personal style, they might not appeal to everyone. That said, this can be easily rectiﬁed by repainting walls in neutral tones, such as whites or creams, as these shades help rooms appear larger and brighter.

Maximise space

If you lack square footage, an effective tactic is to use similar colours or decor in adjacent small rooms to visually connect them, giving the illusion of a larger overall space. Arranging furniture strategically can also enhance this effect - for instance, pulling sofas slightly away from walls and orienting

seating towards each other can foster a sense of ﬂow and openness.

Accessorise wisely

While a decluttered space is crucial, the right accessories can also enhance and deﬁne a room. Opt for elements that add elegance without overwhelming the space, such as tasteful ornaments, fresh ﬂowers or artwork.

Lighting also plays a critical role; ensure that rooms are well lit, complementing natural light with ambient ﬁxtures to create a warm and inviting environment.

An exceptional September in your garden

While many gardeners regard September as the end of the growing season, in truth this time of the year still provides plenty of scope for planting and sowing.

It may go against some seasonal logic, but planting in September offers a variety of options for late-year ﬂourishing of ﬂowers and vegetables.

Flowers

Starting with this dramatic plant, Eryngium pandanifolium, which is a large relative of the native sea holly. It prefers good drainage and forms a bold clump of bluish leaves with tall stems and small reddish-purple ﬂower heads.

Compact and bright, polyanthus resembles primroses but blooms in clusters atop short stems. With long-lasting, colourful ﬂowers, they are ideal for winter beds, borders, window boxes and containers. Try fragrant Polyanthus ‘Firecracker’ for a stunning display.

elegant growth. It has lavender-blue petals and yellow centres, it blooms long, resists mildew, and pairs well with grasses, sedums, and schizostylis.

Hylotelephium is the new name for hardy sedums, with Red Cauli offering rich red ﬂower heads resembling red broccoli. Paired with green succulent foliage, it complements Aster × frikartii ‘Monch’ beautifully for weeks.

Finally, they are neat and compact, and hardy perennial daisies produce quilled blooms in pink, red, or white, brightening late winter gardens.

Vegetables

lettuces like Winter Density always prosper under glass.

Sowing broad beans in autumn, particularly the Aquadulce Claudia variety, helps them establish over winter for an early spring crop. Remember to cover with ﬂeece during severe frosts or snow.

Pansies, a winter display staple, outshine other winter bedding plants. Thriving in both full sun and semishade, they are perfect for hanging baskets, containers, and ﬁlling gaps in borders during the cold months.

Aster × frikartii ‘Mönch’, meanwhile, is a top sun-loving perennial with neat, well-branched,

If you’re keen to make your garden a space for food rather than ﬂowers, why not take the opportunity to sow kale, land cress, and radish in September for winter harvest? Kale provides nutrient-rich greens, land cress offers a peppery ﬂavour, and radish adds a crisp, spicy bite to winter dishes. All thrive in cooler weather.

Salad crops such as mustard leaf, winter salad mixes and mizuna can go in sheltered spots or pots, while winter

Spinach can be laid now in well-prepared soil or pots, then covered with ﬂeece or a low cloche from October, while hardy peas like Meteor or Douce Provence also beneﬁt this time of the year, overwintering to yield an early crop.

Finally, the faithful turnip won’t let you down, even in cool, moist conditions and

Greenfingers… The Alan Titchmarsh Column

He’s a magnificent broadcaster, gifted gardener, brilliant author and all-round horticultural visionary. This month, Alan Titchmarsh talks about the best way to deal with the evergrowing littering of leaves in your garden.

As the leaves begin to fall and the temperatures start to drop, it’s the perfect time to give your garden a good tidy-up before winter sets in.

Autumn is the season when leaves carpet our gardens, bringing both beauty and a bit of a challenge – yet managing this leafy cascade doesn’t have to be a daunting task, as long as you approach it correctly.

discourage worms from surfacing, which can make your lawn look unsightly. So, starting a regimented process in September will get you used to doing it through the rest of the autumn months.

First things first, let’s talk about why it’s essential to clear those leaves. When they fall in large quantities during October and November, they can quickly cover lawns and borders. Left unattended, they can smother grass and the crowns of herbaceous perennials, sometimes killing them.

A quick rake-up will prevent this and also

When raking, use one with plastic-teeth rather than a wire one as they’re gentler on your grass and plants. However, remember that the aim isn’t to be meticulous in removing every single leaf; it’s more about getting rid of the bulk so as to prevent damage. Leaves that sit on, around, and underneath plants will eventually rot down, enriching the soil in the process.

needed shelter for overwintering wildlife. Hedgehogs, frogs, and a host of beneficial insects will appreciate the refuge. Just be sure to clear leaves from your lawn, paths, and borders where they can be problematic.

Also, the leaves that you collect can be put to excellent use, so instead of bagging them up for the bin, create a mould pile by heaping them in a corner –perhaps under a hedge – where they won’t be in the way. Over about a year, they’ll break down into a fantastic soil conditioner that will benefit your garden.

It’s also worth noting that a few piles of leaves left in out-of-theway places can provide much-

Remember, this isn’t a task you can leave until the end of autumn. If you wait until all the leaves have fallen and are thoroughly damp, it will be too late to save the grass and plants underneath.

Regular, light raking throughout the season is the way to go. This not only protects your garden but also offers great exercise – think of it as a bonus workout for your core!

Ready, Set... Check

Ensuring your car is in ﬁne fettle before it begins its journey is not just advisable – it could be the diﬀerence between a holiday and staying put!

Here are six checks to make before you leave the driveway.

Tyre pressure

Maintaining the correct air pressure in your vehicle’s tyres is crucial for optimal braking, traction, and steering performance, so don’t take any chances.

Wipers and screen wash

Screen wash is vital in all seasons for clear visibility when driving, but it’s useless without fully functioning wiper blades.

Additionally, cracks or chips on your windshield can quickly escalate into major concerns.

Lights

Ensuring that all your vehicle’s lights are operational is crucial for visibility and communication with other drivers on the road.

Oil

Oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine. No oil, no journey. While topping up is smart, don’t overdo it, as too much of the stuff can impact your running efﬁciency.

Engine coolant

Many newer cars have a closed cooling system which means they don’t need topping up, but with

older motors the ﬂuid level in the reservoir is easily located and it’s simple to top it up.

Tyre tread depth

Balding tyres can affect everything from swerving around squirrels to hitting the brakes in time. Before you set off on an epic road trip, it’s a good move to check that your tyre treads are adequate.

Late Bloomers

Starting school can be a challenging experience for children who are the youngest in their year group. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help them thrive.

Homework

In the months before your child starts school, work on basic skills such as recognising letters, numbers and colours, all of which will give a newstarter a confidence boost. Also, reading books about starting school can help children know what to expect, and feel more comfortable.

Develop routine

Establish a consistent daily routine for meals, playtime and bedtime to help your child adjust to the structure of the school day. If you can, practise getting ready for school in the morning to make the transition smoother.

Build social skills

Arrange playdates with peers who will be in the same class to help your child make friends before school starts. You can even roleplay

common school scenarios like sitting in class, sharing with friends, and asking the teacher for help.

Boost independence

Teach your child to manage basic self-care tasks like using the bathroom, washing hands and opening lunch boxes. Allow your child to make simple decisions, like picking out their clothes or choosing a snack - this will nurture their decisionmaking skills.

Positive attitude

Talk about school in a positive way, focusing on the fun aspects like making new friends and learning new things. Give lots of encouragement and praise for their efforts, no matter how small.

Communication with teachers

If possible, arrange to meet the teacher before school starts to establish a connection and discuss any concerns. It is always worth mentioning any apprehension you have about your child’s age or readiness for school.

through short visits or school orientation days. These are also a great way for you to connect with other parents. When there, establish a quick and consistent goodbye ritual to provide reassurance.

Create a supportive environment

You can expect an amount of trepidation in the first few weeks of their new life, so allow your child to take a familiar item to school, like a small toy or a family photo, in order to provide comfort. Beyond that, be available to listen and support your child through their feelings and experiences.

Encourage

resilience

Encourage your child to solve problems independently and offer guidance when needed. Be sure to praise effort and perseverance, rather than just outcomes, in order to keep spirits high.

Manage separation anxiety

If possible, gradually introduce your child to the school environment

Monitor and adjust

Finally, pay attention to your child’s behaviour for signs of stress or anxiety and address them promptly, being flexible and willing to adjust routines or approaches based on your child’s needs and feedback.

Degree Or Not Degree, That Is The Question

University is about much more than simply emerging with qualiﬁcations, and as many consider whether to take the leap into Higher Education over the course of the next year, it’s worth asking whether studying for another three (or more) is the right thing for you or your loved one.

Common concerns

In the wave of momentum as students reach the ﬁnal year of their A-Levels, there is an expectancy of university, from peers, teachers and parents. This can be a tough thing to handle from the perspective of not wanting to disappoint.

Some students simply don’t relish another three years of study, or perhaps are aching to get straight into the jobs market. And yet the pressure of seeing friends apply to go to university is considerable.

Financially, university leaves a lasting impression whose indentation can still be seen a long way down the line. There’s also the intensity of independence which, while something many relish, for others it can be intimidating.

It’s worth asking a student if they’d still want to go to university if their friends weren’t. Furthermore, question what the real reason for embarking on Higher Education. Is it career, the social aspect, or just the lack of any other option?

Passion

One thing university does require is dedication and

passion in the subject. At degree level, there needs to be genuine commitment to whatever is being studied, and a desire to turn that into a career.

By the age of 18, some students simply ﬁnd themselves uninspired by the prospect of more learning, and those who don’t possess this drive and desire typically get found out. After all, university involves a lot of selfdirected study, with motivation key, and that will be extremely challenging if there is no deep-seated investment in the chosen ﬁeld.

The

time of your life?

The sheer mention of university, for many, sparks thoughts of the muchadored student lifestyle - the

freedom, the independence, the drinking!

Yet studying is worth much more than that, and there are alternative educational paths that don’t require the dedication and debt of moving away from home for three years.

Need more time?

The great thing about university entry is the fact the clock isn’t necessarily ticking. If reaching an immediate decision is proving tough, the option of delaying start-date is a real one, whereby students can travel, earn or just take more time ensuring whatever decision made is the right one.

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow

Waxing can be taxing, but shaving isn’t time-saving in the long run, which is why it’s important to ﬁnd the perfect method of hair removal for your needs.

Waxing

Pros: Waxing is an efficient way to remove hair as it takes it right from the root meaning the results can last up to six weeks. It’s perfect for those times where you haven’t kept on top of your hair removal, as it can clear large areas in a matter of minutes. Another benefit is that the hairs grow back finer and sparser, the more you wax.

Cons: Waxing can be painful, particularly for ﬁrst-timers or individuals with sensitive skin. Professional waxing can be expensive over time, and even at-home waxing kits can add up in cost.

Waxing can cause redness, irritation, and in some cases allergic reactions. There is a risk of developing ingrown hairs, which can be painful and lead to infection if not treated properly.

Shaving

Pros: Anyone who has reached for the razor before a hot date knows that shaving is a super affordable and quick way to rid yourself of unwanted follicles. In fact, within minutes you can have silky smooth skin and you don’t need to wait for the hair to grow to a certain length before you shave next time.

Cons: The downside of shaving is that the results don’t last long, and

when it does grow back the blunt tips of the hair create a stubbly sensation. Also, cuts and nicks are always a risk with razors, along with the potential for unsightly and sore razor burn.

Laser

Pros: Laser hair removal is a popular long-term hair reduction method that uses concentrated light to target hair follicles. Each laser pulse takes a fraction of a second and can treat many hairs simultaneously. Small areas such as the upper lip can be treated in minutes, while larger areas like the back or legs can take about an hour. Most importantly, Laser hair removal can result in permanent hair reduction after a series of treatments, signiﬁcantly reducing the need for other hair removal methods.

Cons: It can be expensive, especially since multiple sessions are typically required for optimal results. Some people may experience temporary side effects such as redness, swelling and discomfort. Rarely, more severe reactions like blistering, scarring, or changes in skin pigmentation can occur. It is also not effective on all skin types, in fact, light skin and dark hair is the most effective combination whereas other skin tones and hair shades can have mixed results.

Living (and holidaying) by numbers

Packing for a little adventure can feel like an adventure in itself, but using efﬁcient packing methods can help you ﬁt everything you need while keeping your suitcase organised.

The 5-4-3-2-1 method

This method is a structured way to pack efﬁciently. It involves packing:

- Five tops

- Four bottoms

- Three accessories

- Two pairs of shoes (one practical pair and one nice pair)

- One swimsuit

This formula is ﬂexible, allowing you to swap out accessories depending on your destination and type of travel.

The 3-3-3 rule

The one is straightforward:

- Pack three tops

- Three bottoms

- Three pairs of shoes

With this method, you can mix and match to create at least nine different outﬁts, or up to 27 looks if you consider various shoe combinations.

Folding vs rolling

We have two recognised methods for clothes transportation, yet deciding between the two may ultimately depend on the type

Love trips away but hate the packing? Why not simplify the task using mathematics?

of items being packed, and your preference for space-saving:

Tightly roll casual items like t-shirts and jeans to maximise space and reduce wrinkles. This method is excellent for packing efﬁciently and ﬁtting more into your suitcase, and the iron can stay at home!

Fold bulkier garments like sweaters and jackets and place them on top of rolled items. This approach helps to keep your suitcase organised and prevents heavier items from crushing lighter ones.

Additional packing tips

To get the most out of your suitcase, consider the following:

- Pack hats upside down and stuff them with soft goods to maintain their shape

- Keep charging accessories

in a separate bag to avoid tangling and ensure easy access

- Use packing cubes to group like-items together, making it easier to ﬁnd what you need

- Roll socks inside shoes and place the shoes in a resealable bag to save space and keep your suitcase clean

- Choose travel-size toiletries in a transparent bag to comply with airline regulations and avoid spills

- Pack plenty of plastic bags for dirty laundry, wet swimwear or workout clothing

By combining these packing methods, you can efﬁciently use every inch of your suitcase to ensure you’ve all you need for your trip.

Can you afford not to be a Vorderman when it comes to trips away?!

Curry Garden & The Horseshoes Pub

High Street, Eggington, LU7 9PD

Take-Away Service Available

• 10% OFF collected orders

Tel: (01525) 211814

• FREE HOME DELIVERY orders over £15.00 (within a 5 mile radius)

• CHILDS MENU AVAILABLE

Next door to The Horseshoes is Curry Garden. The home of authentic Indian cuisine

Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday : 5.30pm - 10.30pm, Fri/Sat : 5.30pm - 11pm, Mondays : Closed

Generous beer selection on draft & bottled

All of your favourite Wines & Champagne, Spirits & liqueurs

Cosy & friendly atmosphere

Delicious bar snacks available from Curry Garden

Opening Hours Mon - Closed I Tue - Sun 5 - 11pm

Grillstock ‘Competition Style’ Chicken Thighs

Introduction

Try this winning BBQ chicken recipe from Grillstock founders Jon Finch and Ben Merrington and learn how to make both an authentic South Carolina BBQ sauce, and their secret BBQ rub.

Ingredients

(serves four):

• 12 whole chicken thighs

Grillstock chicken rub

• 2 tbsp sea salt

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 2 tbsp paprika

• 1 tbsp garlic salt

• 1 tbsp celery salt

• 2 tsp chilli powder

• 1 tsp black pepper

South Carolina BBQ sauce

• 240ml French’s American mustard

• 2 tbsp English mustard

• 150ml runny honey

• 60ml cider vinegar

• 2 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tbsp soft brown sugar

• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp Frank’s RedHot sauce (or other American hot sauce)

Method

1. To make the BBQ sauce mix all the ingredients and keep chilled until you need it. You’ll use half for this recipe and the rest will keep for a couple of weeks.

2. Mix all the rub ingredients. Dust the chicken thighs all over with the chicken rub.

3. Roll the thighs so the skin is taught then pack tightly into a disposable foil roasting dish, skin side up. Dab a knob of butter on the top of each thigh and sprinkle on more rub.

4. If using a smoker set it to cook at 110°C and smoke the thighs in the tray for around 1.5hrs. Remove carefully from the tray then keep cooking on the bars of your smoker for a further hour or until cooked.

5. If using a regular BBQ put the tray of thighs over indirect heat for 30 minutes adding a handful of BBQ chips to the coals and closing the lid to create smoke. Transfer

the thighs directly on the BBQ grill, cooking for another 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.

6. To finish, pour the BBQ sauce into a pot and dunk in the hot thighs, shaking off any drips before serving.

Top Tip

If you don’t have access to a barbecue grill, simply follow all the other steps as written and oven cook the thighs instead.

Food & Drink

Pack It In

Sick of sandwiches? Spring into September with these fresh twists on the classic packed lunch.

Bento boxes

These days you can buy bentobox-style lunch boxes in any supermarket, but a regular Tupperware box with unused paper cake cases works just as well.

As with a Japanese bento box, the idea is to have lots of little bites that make up a meal. Cooked chicken or fish with a portion of rice along with vegetable such as sliced cucumber or edamame, finished off with some chopped kiwi or orange slices, is an example of what you might find in a typical serving.

Mason jar salads

Is there anything mason jars can’t be used for? An excellent way to ensure your salad doesn’t get horribly soggy, this layering method is not only an efficient way to transport such a meal, it also looks pretty cool.

Start at the bottom with your dressing, layer two is for hearty ingredients (cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, chickpeas), protein

is layer three (grilled chicken, beans, or quinoa) layer four is leafy greens (spinach, kale, or lettuce) and, to top it off, nuts or seeds for crunch (almonds, sunflower seeds). Delicious!

Pasta salads

Transform your leftover dinner pasta into a delicious and healthy salad.

For an Italian style salad mix whole wheat pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, basil, and a light vinaigrette. Or, for a Greek twist, combine orzo, olives, feta cheese, diced cucumbers, red onion, and a lemon and olive oil dressing, for a surprisingly simple and tasty salad.

Mini frittatas

If you like mini frittatas and getting caught in the rain… or if you just fancy something a bit different for lunch, these omelette-esque snacks are ideal.

Combine eggs and milk with your preferred ingredients –either spinach, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and cheese or bacon, sausage, and cheese –and bake in a nonstick muffin pan until set.

Noodles, two ways

Surprisingly, cold noodles make a tasty and satisfying sandwich alternative.

For a Thai noodle salad, combine rice noodles, shredded carrots, peppers, coriander and a spicy peanut dressing.

For sesame noodles, mix soba noodles, edamame, julienned cucumbers, and a sesameginger dressing.

Or if you’re feeling really fancy, have a go at making rice paper rolls. Either Vietnamese spring rolls - rice paper, prawn or tofu, vermicelli noodles, lettuce, mint and coriander served with a hoisin-peanut sauce; or veggie rolls - rice paper, julienned veggies (carrots, bell peppers, cucumber) and avocado with a soy-ginger dipping sauce.

DRINK IT IN

Step aside water! We’re living in a new era of healthy drinks. Yet what are these liquid life-extenders garnering an increasing presence on supermarket shelves, and why are they so good for you?

Kombucha, keﬁr, probiotic, and prebiotic drinks are all-new, all-good choices for those looking to support their digestive health and overall wellbeing. Packed with all the ingredients to positively impact the gut and immune system, their popularity is soaring in the UK.

Kombucha

Keﬁr is known for its potential to improve digestion, and is especially good for those who are lactose intolerant, as the fermentation process breaks down much of the lactose in the milk.

It also supports the immune system, and can contribute to stronger bones due to its high calcium content.

Prebiotic drinks

Probiotic drinks

Kombucha is a fermented tea that has been enjoyed for centuries and made by adding a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) to sweetened tea.

The fermentation process creates a ﬁzzy, tangy drink, rich in probiotics - live microorganisms that promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria.

They can improve digestion, boost the immune system, and even enhance mental health. Kombucha also contains antioxidants which are proven to help detoxify the body.

Keﬁr

While kombucha and keﬁr are both probiotics, there are many more on the market, from yoghurt drinks to juices and specially formulated beverages.

Prebiotics contain ingredients to nourish the good bacteria already present in your gut. Unlike probiotics, which introduce new bacteria, prebiotics provide the food that helps existing beneﬁcial bacteria thrive.

Again, the secret is in the way they are infused with live cultures of beneﬁcial bacteria, and the main beneﬁt is in balancing the gut microbiome, something that’s crucial for effective digestion, nutrient absorption, and a robust immune system.

Common prebiotics include ﬁbres found in foods such as chicory root, garlic, and bananas. By fostering a healthy environment for gut bacteria, prebiotics can enhance digestion, improve metabolic health, and support the immune system.

Others

Keﬁr is a fermented milk drink similar to yoghurt, but with a thinner consistency. It is made by adding keﬁr grains – a combination of bacteria and yeast – to milk.

This process results in a drink that is full of probiotics, vitamins, and minerals.

Regular consumption can help prevent gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea.

Various other fermented and functional beverages are gaining popularity for their health beneﬁts. For example, kvass, a traditional Slavic drink mix from fermented rye bread; and tepache, a Mexican drink made from fermented pineapple; offer similar probiotic beneﬁts, not only supporting digestive health but also adding variety to dietary options.

Puzz l General Knowledge Crossword

Across Clues:

Capital Cities

5. Excessively get ready (11)

9. Skin condition (9)

10. Finger (5)

11. Not good (3)

12. 88 keyed instrument (5)

13. Very fast (5)

15. Made of ﬂowers (6)

17. A being (6)

19. Manner of using (5)

20. Muscle in upper arm (5)

21. Noah’s vessel (3)

23. Open wasteland (5)

24. Pleasant (9)

26. Statement of recommendation (11)

Down Clues:

1. Turn outward (5)

2. Armored mammal (9)

3. Suitable (3)

4. Cause annoyance (8)

6. Rules of monarch (6)

7. Founded (11)

8. Government ministers (11)

14. Cleaning agent (9)

16. Collect together again (8)

18. Two forms (6)

22. Work dough (5)

25. Pigpen (3)

Capital Cities Wordsearch

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Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

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info@cplrepairs.co.uk Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

www.cplrepairs.co.uk Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

info@cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

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info@cplrepairs.co.uk

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

Are misted up

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

www.cplrepairs.co.uk

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

Windows not shutting properly? Hinges? Drafts around windows and

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you?

Windows not shutting properly? Hinges? Drafts around windows and

a familiar sight to you?

to you?

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you? Windows not shutting properly?

misted up windows a familiar sight to you? Windows not shutting properly?

Windows not shutting properly? Hinges? Drafts around windows and

you?

Are misted up windows a familiar sight to you? Windows not shutting properly? Hinges? Drafts around windows and

There are 10 diﬀerences between the two images below. How many can you spot?

Will Kimberley Garden Services

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• Fencing

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• Garden

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By Dr Lorna Moore

Still Life Collage

Collect colour magazines. Choose a colour scheme for your collage. For this picture I looked for a variety of yellows, greens, blues, black/ white. Separate your colours into different piles. Look for a variety of tones of the same colour. Before you start practise tearing (no cutting). If you rip towards you, you will get a different edge than if you rip away from you. There is no right or wrong way just a matter of what edge you prefer. Sketch your flowers and vase. Rip petal shapes and glue down until you get a flower shape. Then place a small, ripped circle in the middle and then do the rest. Then rip different shades of yellow for your background and dark green strips for your stalks. Now do the vase in different colours. Lastly do the foreground in light blue or grey.

PLUMBING & Heating

Our next 12-week term starts Wed 18th Sept. For advanced students we run a Fine Art Course every term. You get 6 assignments and group tutorials for just £180. See what we do at our Fine Art Exhibition which opens Sat 21st & Sun 22nd September 2024 11am-3pm Bellows Mill Email drmooresartcourse@gmail.com call 078 9661 9660

Worth e Weight

Could rucking (weighted walking) help promote weight loss and increase muscle mass without a trip to the gym?

Rucking (from the word ‘rucksack’) is a form of exercise that involves walking or hiking with a weighted backpack. It’s derived from the military practice where soldiers carry their gear in a rucksack over various distances.

It improves cardiovascular health by increasing heart rate and promoting endurance, while carrying extra weight helps build muscle strength,

particularly in the legs, back and core. The added heft increases the intensity of the workout, leading to higher calorie expenditure compared to regular walking, and is lower impact than running, making it easier on the joints.

Best of all, rucking is cheap, accessible, highly versatile, and can be adapted to your needs to get ﬁt. Indeed, while a dedicated weighted vest, jacket or backpack is useful, it isn’t essential. A sturdy, well-ﬁtting backpack that has padded shoulder straps and a waist belt to distribute weight evenly will work just as well. You can use tin cans or heavy books as weightsjust be sure to distribute it evenly in your backpack to avoid strain on one side of your body.

As with most new exercise regimes, it’s important to start slowly. Begin with a lighter weight, such as 1015lb, and gradually increase as your strength and endurance improve. Keep your distance short at ﬁrst and the terrain relatively ﬂat.

Always warm up properly, and wear supportive, comfortable shoes that are suitable for walking long distances.

Ruck and roll!

Bedfordshire’s Night Sky Looking Up!

August & September 2024

Watch the Perseids Meteor Shower:

The Perseids return to Bedfordshire’s night sky this August. Active until 24 August this annual show of shooting stars reaches its peak on the night of 11 – 12 August when up to 75 meteors per hour might be seen in the hours between 10pm and 4am. Look towards your north-east and overhead for the best views. Shooting stars from the Perseids appear as streaks of light that race across the heavens, visible only for a second or two. They come from particle debris left behind by an old comet. Every August Earth passes through this debris field; the particles that hit Earth’s atmosphere burn up to create the shooting stars we see.

See the Jupiter & Mars Conjunction:

On the mornings of 14 August and 15 August Mars passes very close to Jupiter as seen from our earthbound viewpoint. Look towards the east-north-east from 1am until dawn to see this special planetary conjunction. Binoculars will get you a super view, but a 130mm+ aperture telescope should yield an exceptional scene with both Jupiter and Mars nicely framed within the same magnified field of view.

Catch Saturn at Opposition:

Saturn reaches opposition on 8 September. This is when the ringed planet appears brightest in the sky for this year and is also at its closest point to Earth for the year, appearing at its largest size in a telescope. To identify Saturn look for the brightest star-like object towards your south-east once fully dark.

By Seb Jay - Image: Seb Jay

Plumbing & Heating

Family Run Business With 47 Years Experience

ring Andy & Michael Clemmit on: 01582 873354

07956 110919 or

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

We are looking for volunteers to join our team at Dunstable Citizens Advice. Roles available are Advisers, Receptionist, Treasurer and Trustees.

Volunteering Opportunities:

• Give back to the community

• Free, in-depth training

• Friendly, supportive team

• Expenses paid

Trustee Opportunities:

• All of the above

• Help guide and govern us Citizens Advice

• Be part of the decision making process!

Interested?

Please email training@dunstable.cabnet.org.uk or call 01582 670003 to discuss the opportunities. Take a look at our website www.dunstablecab.org.uk

We look forward to welcoming you to our team!

Reg No: 619027

What’s in your wallet?

The pursuit of rare coins is something that goes back decades, generations and civilisations; yet it’s not all about ﬂorins, sovereigns and groats.

You may just ﬁnd there are special editions of coins in current circulation that are worth pulling out of your pocket.

Kew Gardens 50p

Leading the pack in rarity and value, the Kew Gardens-backed 50p was minted in 2009, with a total of just 210,000 coins produced.

It features the iconic Chinese Pagoda of Kew Gardens, and its distinctiveness and limited release make it one of the most sought-after coins, fetching up to £245… that’s almost 500 times face value!

Single Market 50p

Not far behind the Kew Gardens coin, this was released in 1992 and it stands out with a double date marking of 1992/1993, celebrating the European Single Market’s completion. With only 109,000 pieces distributed, it commands prices up to £44, inﬂuenced by its age and unique historical context.

Commonwealth

Games £2

This is another treasure. From the 2002 series commemorating the Games, the Irish version is the rarest, with only 485,500 coins made. Its value can soar to around £80, thanks to its scarcity and the series’ overall appeal to collectors.

the Britannia 5th Portrait £2, minted in 2015, offers a modern twist.

Great British Coin Hunt Z 10p

Also holding a special place in the market and part of a 26-letter series released in 2019, this coin – featuring the iconic zebra crossing –is particularly rare.

With only 220,000 minted, individual coins have sold for as much as £30, although typically prices tend to be around £10.

Commonwealth Games Wales £2

Another notable mention, this coin was launched along with the other Commonwealth coins in 2002. The Welsh version stands out with 588,500 pieces minted and features a distinct Welsh ﬂag. The coin typically sells for around £20.

Britannia 5th Portrait £2

For those with an eye on more contemporary designs,

With 650,000 coins in circulation, it may not fetch as high a price as others, selling around £20, but its artistic merit and historical signiﬁcance add a different kind of value.

FWW Navy 5th Portrait £2

Lastly, this beauty is part of a series commemorating the First World War, as both a tribute and a collector’s item. Minted in the same year as the Britannia, it was designed by military artist David Rowlands, and had a run of 650,000 pieces. Its value is around the £13 mark.

Most of the above-mentioned coins will end up on eBay or other online auction sites, which means ease, convenience and immediate ‘listability’ for anything you ﬁnd down the back of the sofa… so get searching!

What’s on

New Course Of History Talks

The Dunstable Tuesday Group are offering a new course, commencing 10th September:-

‘Five Splendid London Houses’

The five week course, presented by Adam Smith, will commence on 10th September.

The price is £30 for the five weeks, or £7 weekly.

The course will be held at Pioneer Hall, Manchester Place, Dunstable, LU6 1HT.

To register please contact Carole Smart on smart.carole@talk21.com or 07917 083850

Plumbing Heating Boilers

Cookers & Fires

Powerflushing Specialist

Autumn Action

September sees familiar faces return, daring women take centre-stage, and a legendary musician resplendent in releasing new material.

Joan (ITVX September 1st)

When husband Gary goes on the run, Joan Harrington (Sophie Turner) leaves her old life behind. Aided by her four-year-old daughter Debbie, plus sharp intelligence, charm and talent for impersonation and performance, she evolves into a skilled jewel thief who embarks on a thrilling, high-stakes adventure.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (in cinemas September 6th)

Michael Keaton is back as the trickster ghost, alongside Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara.

Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s (Ryder) life soon gets turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter discovers a mysterious portal to the afterlife, re-awakening Beetlejuice unleash his very own brand of mayhem.

Luck And Strange by David Gilmour (September 6th)

The legendary Pink Floyd member’s first new material in nine years was recorded over five months in Brighton, and at Mark Knopfler’s British Grove Studios in London.

The album is a return to form, and includes a 2007 jam session recording with the sadly departed former Floyd band mate Richard Wright.

Emily in Paris (Netﬂix – Part 2 September 12th)

We resume with marketing expert Emily Cooper (Lily Collins) ﬁnding herself torn between Gabriel (Lucas Bravo), who’s about to become a father, and exboyfriend Alﬁe (Lucien Laviscount).

Regardless, Emily and Gabriel share undeniable chemistry collaborating towards achieving a Michelin star. However, two major secrets threaten to shatter their dreams.

PRIORY PROMS IN THE PARK 14th September 6pm - 10.30pm

The live broadcast of Last Night of the Proms on a giant screen, with special effects, interval entertainment and a fantastic fireworks finale.

Bring your chairs, blanket and your Pimms and come down to this wonderful British event! There will also be an outside bar and catering on site.

Aternate Thursdays, 2:30 - 4:00pm

2022

Tea Time Tales are being held in Grove House, 76 High Street North whilst Priory House is being repaired.

Talks of local & national interest with refreshments

12th September

Luton in Print by Howard Chandler

26th September

The Roman Road from Verulamium to Magiovinium by Tony Woodhouse

This is a change from the published speaker and subject, Tony was originally going to give his talk on 29 February

10th October

Travels to see distant relatives –monkeys and their kin by Wilf Powell

Choose from our current range or work with us to design your own building.

Our products are built to last. We only use top quality materials. All our buildings are fully insulated to give you year round enjoyment.

We strive to give you the best quality products for the most competitive price.

Manufactured and installed by Bedfordshire master craftsmen.

We strive to give you the best quality products for the most competitive price.

Manufactured and installed by Bedfordshire master craftsmen.

Your Local Garden Building supplier. 07784 358814 / 08454636634

We can also deal with all your planning queries.

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