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Vine
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This Month...
Beds Food & Drink Awards 8 The Guided Busway 10 A Travellers Tale 14 The Martin Lewis Money Page 16 Consumer Clinic 18 Aged Concerns 20 Bedfordshire’s Night Sky 22 At Home 26 In The Garden 28 Auto-biographies 32 Health, Beauty & Wellbeing 38 Beanstalk 40 Puzzles 42 Out & About 44
Copy deadline for our next issue - 18th March
Editors: Scott Nightingale Shelly Nesbitt For advertising & Editorial: Shelly Nesbitt 01525 222379 07852 453043 Mailthevine@yahoo.co.uk 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.
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d The Vine Magazine sponsors search to find
Bedfordshire’s Best Pub
An exciting new set of county food and drink awards have been launched in Bedfordshire – and The Vine Magazine is delighted to announce that we're proudly sponsoring one of the categories – Best Pub of the Year. The awards call on the public to scour the nooks and crannies of the counties for the best independents and vote for them on the websites mentioned in the article below.
ood of county and drink food and drink aunched Bedfordshire in Bedfordshire – and – and istodelighted announce tothat announce that of soring the categories one of the –categories – r. the o scour public theto scour the nties of the forcounties the bestfor the best m ote onfor thethem websites on the websites rticle . below.
Mayor nominees and sponsors with Bedford’s Dave at the launch of the awards yng campaigning across Facebook across Facebook “Ourgenerating vision is togenerating highlight the very best of Bedfordas al media traditional media shire’s quality food and drink sector,” said Damian ominations ouraging nominations and votes. and votes. Cummins, director of on the Bedfordshire Food & Drink dreDrink Food Awards and Drink on Awards Awards. “From to brewers, from coffee shops w agthe #BedsFinest hashtag #BedsFinest on pubs on to butchers, we are galvanising a mass movement t updates. the best mostofimportant people, the customers, who pioning bout of championing the the best of know the true meaning of quality when they taste ting in Bedfordshire.” quality in Bedfordshire.” it,without drink it and are served out appen sponsors and sponsors and it so well.” winners beto decided solely by votes from & ards Drink isThe proud Awards to is bewill proud be members of as theThe public liant suchbrands as Thesuch Vine Vinethat have been lodged on the awards website http://bedsfoodanddrinkawards.co.uk McGeeney, communications director for the dbsite out Karen more to findabout out more the about the awards, is atat the centre of the action nsors, minate toand nominate tosaid: vote“Voting and at to vote but even General Elections won't have seen anys.co.uk drinkawards.co.uk thing like this!
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“We're already busy campaigning across Facebook and Twitter as well as traditional media generating excitement and encouraging nominations and votes. Look for Bedfordshire Food and Drink Awards on Facebook and follow the hashtag #BedsFinest on Twitter for the latest updates. “We're so excited about championing the best of the best and promoting quality in Bedfordshire.” Awards could not happen without sponsors and Bedfordshire Food & Drink Awards is proud to be associated with brilliant brands such as The Vine Magazine. Visit the awards website to find out more about the categories and sponsors, to nominate and to vote at http://bedsfoodanddrinkawards.co.uk
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Mother’s Day Sunday 15th March 2015
Valentine’s Day
What better way is there to thank Mum for everything, than giving her the day off?!
Friday 13th February & Saturday 14th February
Treat her to a special three course meal at The White Lion
Treat that special someone to a romantic candle lit meal
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Three Delicious Courses from our special Valentines Menu
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9
Luton and Dunstable Guided Busway Playing a part in the regeneration ‘jigsaw’ By Nigel Young, Executive Member for Strategic Planning and Economic Development, Central Bedfordshire Council Imagine a scheme that would bring improved connectivity between Dunstable and Luton and on to national and international destinations; that would attract key employers to locate in our town; dramatically cut journey times between Luton and Dunstable; get people out of their cars and on to public transport and be part of a plan to put Dunstable firmly on the map while restoring it to the pleasant market town we all know and love. No need to imagine, it’s already here: the Luton Dunstable Guided Busway. The busway launched in September 2013 and increasingly residents and businesses are recognising it as a huge benefit. However, the value cannot be measured in terms of ‘bums on seats’ alone but is a key part of a jigsaw of regeneration in Dunstable. Central Bedfordshire Council recently made a film about the regeneration of Dunstable which gave me the opportunity to travel on one of the buses and gauge public reaction. Passengers reported that journey times to Luton and beyond were quicker and more convenient with one airport worker telling us he is now able to reach work in just 15 minutes. The busway has halved journey times between the centre of Dunstable and Luton and I frequently use the service to connect to London via Luton Interchange. The door to door journey can sometimes be an astonishing 55 mins! The busway effectively functions in the same way as a train or London’s Tube, picking people up locally and taking them at speed to the two major local centres. The service is a commercial, non subsidised operation which the bus operators view as a success. Indeed some are extending their services in response to demand. Arriva, for example, are putting on services in the early morning and late evening and their 70 service from Luton and Dunstable to Leighton Buzzard and Milton Keynes now operates on the Busway.) As news of the busway’s impact on Dunstable spreads, businesses are beginning to look favourably on the town as a location, bringing with them much needed employment. Prologis recently opened a massive 310 10
sq foot distribution facility on the Woodside Industrial Estate, citing the busway as part of their decision to move to the town as it offers tenants access to a wider pool of local labour. The busway has also been a big part of BBC Three Counties decision to locate in Dunstable as it allows staff, not just in Luton and Dunstable but further afield, to travel quickly and efficiently to and from their planned new base in Grove Gardens. Staff from North London currently has a long walk once they reach Luton but now they’ll be able to catch a busway bus and be dropped off outside the door. The improved connections to key destinations across the town such as Central Bedfordshire College and the White Lion Retail Park are also bringing inward investment and further infrastructure developments to Dunstable. The presence of the busway has paved the way, for instance, for branches of Next and Marks and Spencer Simply Food to seek planning permission to locate at White Lion. The busway isn’t a static project but will continue to improve and develop. CBC, in conjunction with Luton Borough Council, recently secured government funding via the Local Sustainable Transport Fund which will be used to improve access to the Busway path, used by many walkers and cyclists, and to create new stops. The Luton and Dunstable Busway is one of the most exciting developments in Dunstable for many years and its impact cannot be underestimated. It won’t happen straightaway but I believe the Busway is a key part of a brighter future which, with measure to reduce congestion such as the de-trunking of the A5 and the development of the Woodside Link, will restore Dunstable’s market town feel while also making it a town fit for a prosperous future. By 2017 we should see the pieces of the jigsaw fall into place to make Dunstable a vibrant place to live, play and work. I’d be very happy to talk to any readers about plans for Dunstable. Please email me at: nigel.young@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
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The Natural History Museum at Tring was built in 1889 to house the incredible zoological collections of Walter Rothschild. Come and discover animal specimens from around the world, from tiny beetles to enormous bears. Explore exhibitions and events at www.nhm.ac.uk/tring.
Bird Feeders Thursday 12 February 30-minute workshops at 11.00 and 14.00 Especially for under fives. Tickets £1.50
Funky Photo Frames Monday 16 and Tuesday 17 February 30-minute craft workshops at 10.15, Bird Feeders 10.45, 11.15, Thursday 12 February 30-minute workshops at 11.00 and 14.00 14.30 and 15.00 Especially for under fives. Suitable for ages five and over. Tickets £1.50 Funky Photo Frames Tickets £1.50
Monday 16 and Tuesday 17 February 30-minute craft workshops at 10.15, 10.45, 11.15, 14.30 and 15.00
Den Building in Tring Suitable Park for ages five and over. Tickets £1.50
Wednesday 18 February Den Building in Tring Park Bird Feeders Wednesday 18 February 45-minute activity at 10.30 and 45-minuteThursday activity at14.00 10.30 14.00 12 and February Suitable for 30-minute ages five and over.workshops at 11.00 and 14.00 Suitable for ages five and over. Free, advanced booking required ear Craft Especially for under fives. 29 and Tuesday 30 December Free, advanced booking required e workshops at 10.15, 10.45, 11.15, Tickets £1.50
d 15.00
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50
Build a Bird Box
Funky Photo Frames Monday 16 and Tuesday 17 February
Events for adults 50 Years of Measuring Change: The Rothamsted Insect Survey Thursday 6 November 19.00–20.00 Join chief ecologist Chris Shortall to discover the results of a long-running survey of UK moths and aphids, and the relevance of this unique dataset to understanding environmental change. Tickets £4.50, advance booking required
Behind the Scenes in the Rothschild Library Saturday 17 January 30-minute visits at 10.15 and 11.00
Events for adults 50 Years of Measuring Change: The Rothamsted Insect Survey Thursday 6 November 19.00–20.00
Join chief ecologist Chris Shortall to discover the
of a long-running survey of UK moths and aphids 30-minute craft workshops at 10.15, 10.45, 11.15, Thursday 19 February the relevance of this unique dataset to understan 14.30 and 15.00 One-hour workshops environmental change. Suitable for ages five and over. £4.50, advance booking required A rare opportunity to visit Walter Rothschild’sTickets personal library, at 10.15, 11.15, Tickets £1.50 not usually open to the public, and see some of its beautiful natural history volumes. Please bring proof of address, details 14.30 and 15.30 Behind the Scenes in the Rothschil provided on booking. There is no step-free access to the Den Building in Tring Park library. Saturday 17 January Group activity, one Wednesday 18 February Tickets £4.50, advanced booking required 30-minute visits at 10.15 and 11.00 45-minute activity at 10.30 and 14.00 box per group, Tring Mansion from Wren to the Suitable for ages five and over. Performing Arts School suitable for ages five Thursday 19 February Free, advanced booking required 19.00–20.00 and over. Build a Bird Box Print Mike Hutchinson has delved into the darkest corners of the sdayPenguins 30 December Thursday 19 February 8 January Tickets £8 per box, mansion’s history to discover all its previous owners, from ps at workshops 10.15, 10.45, 11. 15,14.00 One-hour workshops at 10.15, 11.15, 14.30 and 15.30 e craft at 11.00 and Henry Guy to the Performing Arts School, and tracks the Group activity, one box per group, suitable for ages five and over. changes associated with them and the building. y especially for under fives. boxes per workshop. eight Tickets £8 per box, eight boxes per workshop. Tickets £4.50, advanced booking required
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For Infomation Tel: 020 7942 6171 12
Discover Ashridge
Visitor Centre, Moneybury Hill, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire. HP4 1LT
Discover this area of outstanding natural beauty right on our doorstep. February and March is a great time to go for a walk on the Estate and try and spot some of our more unusual winter bird visitors. Wrap up warm and see what you can discover! Many birds fly to the UK to spend the winter here, where the weather is warmer than in their Scandinavian breeding grounds. In the mixed finch flocks look out for some of the more uncommon species such as brambling. Similar to chaffinch, but with an orange rather than pink colouration, the bramblings are particularly fond of beech mast. Another finch to look out for is the crossbill. You may find these amongst the conifer trees. Crossbills have specialised beaks which enable them to extract seeds from pine cones. The numbers of ground-dwelling woodcock are boosted in winter by migrants from NE Europe. With their long bills, woodcock probe in the wet mud to find invertebrates to feed on. They are secretive and hard to see, but you may come across them in quiet corners of the woodland. Get Involved Are you interested in getting involved in volunteering at the Ashridge Estate and joining the team? Here are some of the opportunities we currently have. Countryside volunteers – Our rangers have two regular groups of volunteer who help with scrub clearance and other maintenance and monitoring across the Estate. Meeting every Thursday and once a month on Sundays. Maintenance Volunteer – Help us keep the presentation of the Visitor Centre and surrounding area in tip top condition. Litter Pickers – Help us keep the Estate clean and tidy. This essential job takes place one Sunday a month.
LIGHTEN UP YOUR HALF TERM 16th - 20th Feb £1 per child 10am - 4pm Make and decorate your own jam jar lantern to take home with you or bring it along to our Candlelit walk on Friday 20th February. No need to book just turn up.
CANLELIT WALK Fri 20th Feb 5.30pm - 9pm £1 Follow our trail around Meadley’s Meadow, lit by candles. At various points there will be featured lighting effects such as floodlit trees and sweedish candles. Suitable for all the family. Walk on a surfaced track. No need to book, just turn up. Bring a torch along with you. For youngsters: Come along during the week to make your coloured lantern in the Visitor Centre and then bring it with you to help you light your way along the trail.
ASHRIDGE SPRING TRAIL 16th Feb - 30th May Daily 10am - 5pm £1 Take a stroll through the woodland discovering more about Spring time at Ashridge. Visit the Ashridge Visitor Centre to collect your trail map and follow the trail, answer the questions and return to collect your sticker reward.
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Mobility Scooters – Help provide this valuable service to our less mobile visitors. Volunteers work in pairs to loan out scooters to visitors who want to explore the Estate but can’t do so on foot or by bike. Training on how to use the scooters is provided
13
A Travellers Tale
Leeds Castle.
Castles And Cathedrals In Kent By Paul Heley Rochester Castle keep
Rochester Cathedral from the keep
Canterbury Cathedral
14
A
couple or so summers ago, I leapt (but, to be true, I don't do much "leaping" now!) on my trusty steed of a motorbike and headed for the south-east corner of the country (a place I rarely visit because London gets in the way). I was aiming at Rochester for starters because it has both a castle and a cathedral - what more could I wish for? Apart from its association with Charles Dickens, Rochester's history goes all the way back to having been one of the first Roman strongholds in AD43. It was later a Saxon village in the kingdom of Kent and it was then, in AD604, that the Kentish King Ethelbert built a wooden cathedral. Following the Norman Conquest, a stone cathedral was built in 1088 boasting a central spire, two towers at the rear and four turrets at the front in a wonderful Romanesque style. It's interesting to note that its west door bears a remarkable similarity to that of our own Priory church. Just across the road (so to speak) is Rochester Castle standing on the banks of the River Medway and offering splendid views over the surrounding area from the tallest keep in England at 115 feet. Like the cathedral, it is of Norman origin having been built in the reign of William 2nd in 1088. Throughout its considerable history, it has been a line of defence against invaders from the continent as well as having undergone sieges during various civil wars in this country. Consequently, its walls and other buildings are in a rather sorry state and it is only the keep which still stands proud and from which a wonderful view overlooking the cathedral is possible. Next day, I continued along the old Watling Street to Canterbury and visited the cathedral - the home of Anglicanism. Its history reaches back to AD597 when a "cathedra" and monastery was first set up by St Augustine who had been sent as a missionary by Pope Gregory the Great. The Venerable Bede records that Augustine used the remnants of a former Roman church as a base; but it was not until Norman times that the first "real" cathedral was started very soon after the Conquest in 1070. Since then it has undergone many changes and alterations before we arrive at the magnificent building which we have today. Canterbury cathedral is best known as the scene of the murder in 1170 of the then Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket, by four knights acting (so they thought)
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on the orders of King Henry 2nd. The killing was never Henry's actual wish, and his fevered outburst "will nobody rid me of this turbulent priest" was completely misinterpreted. However, as penance for the outrage and for his part in it, Henry submitted himself to a serious flogging by the monks and underwent various other acts of remorse. But he was never truly forgiven and the spot where the murder took place is commemorated in the area called the Martyrdom. The cathedral has the usual abundance of exquisite areas, rooms and anterooms such as the Nave and Chancel, the Chapter House, the Cloisters, the tomb of Thomas Becket, and the Crypt which dates from the 11th century. They are each very special and beautifully presented. Something very unexpected happened while I was in the cathedral. I noticed that the then Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, was sitting by himself against the wall - so I went and spoke to him. He was very approachable and we chatted for a few minutes and he told me he was waiting for a film crew to come along and complete a documentary which was being made. He is the only person of international acclaim I've ever spoken with - a better choice than some of today's so-called "celebrities"! The next day it was back to castles again; this time Leeds Castle (which many people assume, for obvious reasons, to be in Yorkshire but, in fact, is near the small village of Leeds near Maidstone). It has been described (but much disputed by rival attractions) as England's loveliest castle. It is certainly very grand and has been in existence since having first been built during the reign of Henry 1st in 1119. Since then it has been the favoured residence of Edward 1st, sieged and captured during the reign of Edward 2nd, and refurbished as a private residence for Catherine of Aragon by Henry 8th (when they were on friendly terms!). During the English Civil War of the 1640s it was not ransacked (as many other castles were) because its owner at the time sympathised with the Parliamentary forces. Since then, it has undergone many alterations and improvements as a private home. Built on an island in a lake, it has a beautiful setting and is a very popular tourist attraction.
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The Martin Lewis Money Page
Car Insurance
Car insurance prices have fallen 40% over the past two years, according to the AA. But with a rise in fraudulent claims, its latest index predicts an increase of up to 8% in 2015; others think 10% is possible. So to help you drive down costs, let me answer your most common questions…
m-approved comparison site – dence Code Q. Isatthis only something you can do if you’re at ee the full list. renewal?
A. No, everyone should be checking their price right a comparison with a phone now, even if you only signed up to a new deal a few elpline on 0800ago. 074 Unless 0745, or months you’ve claimed, you can usually 93. cancel a policy for a fee of around £50 and get a refund for the rest of the year (though you won’t earn no monthly direct debit’s up to 6% claims for that year). It’s worth checking if it’s worth it.
ually mean discounted bills of up Q. My only six weeks away, should I just ur provider to renewal’s check. Though wait? readings for accuracy, as your likely if you o high, A. youIt’s have a right todid asktry and cancel and get a new policy now, the cancellation fee will diminish any savings – so that’s a bit futile. Yet there is another trick www.aviva.co.uk, www.postoffice.co.uk and u can still save. www.lv.com last 60 u can still get a cheapquotes fix to save - days, so why not grab them now and you’re effectively locking in those prices in e. For those on Economy 7, case they rise in the meantime. only really a boon for those who energy at night. If not – don’t Q. Are the savings that great? Can’t you just autode at www.mse.me/eco7 renew? ock? A. Never just auto-renew without checking elsewhere, ozen pipe bursts an smack a price rise on you, as often it justcan letscreate insurers ge, often worsened as many it knows apathy means many will keep paying more andstopcock more. - the mains g for their es as their home floods. I’m not saying auto-renewing will never be your cheapnow – mine is under the kitchen est option, just that it should never be done without checkingor and comparing elsewhere first. n the bathroom inside a working, you may want to call a s a problem. Q. So it’s just a question of getting on a comparison site? ting and eating? A. That’sfinancial the route many use, but there are steps to red, or in general hardship ally kick up. It’s er the hikes - youit may beimportant eligible to understand that there’s no one cheapest provider, so it’s a case of following a Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 system. nyone in your home was born on 2, you'reNever due up £300 taxjusttodo oneincomparison, you need a benchmark ts. Payments should be madeto find out where’s cheapest. of a few comparisons There’s systemthen to follow ’ve never had itabefore you fully explained at www.mse.me/carinsurance. In a nutshell… ee www.gov.uk.
ncome support, jobseekers' redit 16 gets £25 in cold weather
Combine comparison sites. They don’t all cover the same insurers, so combining a number of sites is the best way to really make a meaningful saving. My current top picks for a typical driver are www.moneysupermarket.com, www.confused.com, and www.comparethemarket. com Check insurers that comparisons miss. Comparison sites let you compare 100s of insurers quickly but they don’t capture the entire market. The biggies, including Aviva, www.directline.com and www.zurich.co.uk only offer their products directly. More than one car at home? Comparison sites can only cope with one car at once so don’t include multi-car discounts. Therefore you should always manually check those that offer it. The big one is www.admiral. com multi-car, but www.churchill.com, www.directline.com and www.privilege.com also offer it. I’m not saying they’ll win, but that you should check. Difficult to insure? Use a broker. If you’ve difficult circumstances (eg, past bans or big accidents) that make getting insurance difficult, a comparison site is less likely to help as these are mainly focused on ‘normal’ policies. You may be better off finding a local broker - see the British Insurance Brokers’ Association website (www.biba.org.uk), as these can sometimes find a cheaper deal for you.
Q. So it’s all pretty straightforward? A. Ah if only. Common-sense doesn't always do the job…
- Third party's not always cheapest. Merely selecting comprehensive makes some insurers see you as a lower risk. So always check both. - Adding a responsible second driver can cut your costs. This can bring down your risk average and price - of course, it must be someone who may drive your car. As Mazzyb5 tweeted: "Took your advice and added mum - saved £500."
The Martin Lewis Money Page - Tweaking your job description can cut costs. I'm not saying lap dancers should call themselves cabinet ministers (or vice versa, heaven forbid). But these days many people have such specific job descriptions car insurers don't list them, as Fabsternation tweeted: "Thanks. Changing from creative director to marketing manager saved £300." See my fun car insurance job picker tool www.mse.me/jobpicker. - Beware paying monthly. A monthly payment plan for your insurance is essentially a high-interest loan. For example, if your premium is £1,000 but you’re paying an APR of 25%, your insurance will actually cost £1,140 once you factor in the interest. So either pay in full, or if you can't afford it, use a credit card with a lower APR or better still, a 0% credit card for spending, ensuring your repayments are big enough to clear it within a year.
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Q. And any special tips for young drivers? A. With the average premium for a 17-22-year-
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17
Consumer Clinic
By Jonathan Vernon-Smith
How to Get Ripped Without Being Ripped Off If you’re anything like me, you’ll have completely overindulged during the festive period. In fact, I think I ate about 17 turkeys and drank my bodyweight in Harvey’s Bristol Cream. Sadly, the result of this gluttony is that the New Year requires a little vigorous exercise and healthier eating to get back in shape. You can listen to The JVS Show every weekday morning from 9am on BBC Three Counties Radio
Indeed, it’s generally this time of the year when many of us look in the mirror and race to the nearest gym, happy to sign ourselves up to expensive, long term contracts. But how do you protect yourself against getting ripped off in the process? Over the years, I have dealt with many complaints about gym membership deals. Sometimes this is because gyms are unreasonable in their approach but sadly, more often than not, it's down to pure naivety from consumers. Gyms are businesses, not charities! They have sales advisors in most gyms whose sole responsibility it is to sign up new customers. They are generally paid by commission, and are highly trained to persuade you to sign yourself up for at least a years’ worth of keep fit expense. They seem so nice, so friendly, so understanding and so kind. However, don’t underestimate them. Without you agreeing to join the gym, they don’t get paid. That is their motivation. Be aware that when you sign up to a gym membership, you are entering a legally binding contract. Unless there is a cancellation period outlined in the terms and conditions, you are legally 18
obliged to pay your membership fees for the entire length of the contract. If you're concerned that you'll only bother to go for the first two months, then agreeing to a year long (many contracts are 18 months or two years) is a pretty stupid thing to do. If you decide to cancel, you'll probably be liable for hundreds of pounds worth of fees. What about exceptional circumstances though? Often consumers will come to me saying "I took out gym membership and then lost my job the following week" or "I signed up to a gym but had a bad car accident and haven't been able to use it for 6 months". Of course exceptional circumstances can help your case when attempting to cancel, but unless it states that cancellation is allowed under exceptional circumstances in the terms, you'll still be liable for the full membership costs. So when CAN you cancel a gym membership? Obviously if the service you receive from the gym is poor (for example many of the machines don't work) then you can make a good case for cancellation of the contract. Also if you can prove that some of the terms and conditions in your membership agreement are
unfair you may stand a chance, but be prepared for a fight. In my experience gyms can be some of the most aggressive organisations to fight as a consumer. They often have legal departments that are very used to arguing with unhappy gym goers who want a quick way out. If you are uncertain over your motivation to attend the gym, it is worth noting that many gym chains will offer special memberships that can be cancelled easily, or are on a pay as you go basis. It may be best to start with one of these until you've properly decided whether you like it or not. You may conclude from this month’s article, that I'm an antigym person. I'm not! Honestly! If you are motivated, they can be fantastic places to fight the flab, feel better about yourself and improve your health. Just approach gym membership with your eyes open and you'll not come unstuck months down the line. Happy Fat fighting!
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19
Pensioner’s A . .. s n r e c d Con
Age
T
View
The Telecare Service
Should you Pay VAT ?
he answer in accordance with her majesty’s Revenue and Customs (H.M.R.C.) is, in some cases yes, in other cases no. The organization that operates telecare is the Central Bedfordshire Council (via Aragon Housing Association) it is they, the council, that bills the telecare customer in accordance with H.M.R.C. requirements. The association that I represent is, with the help of our M.P. Mr. Andrew Selous, questioning the government whether VAT exemption applies to some telecare users and not to others and is the reason valid. The exemption to VAT on telecare is not granted to a frail elderly person who is otherwise able bodied as quoted in the VAT act 1984. If you are a telecare user you will have signed a declaration to the effect that you do have a social care requirement granted by the council or suffer from some chronic illness as quoted in H.M.R.C. guidelines, or are terminally ill, otherwise VAT exemption will not apply to you and you will meet that cost plus the cost of the service. Note, these are government guide lines
By Mike Newman
and not those of our council or councillors. A question we must ask ourselves is, what is a telecare service used for? It is a life line to ensure that should an accident occur at home, or you are taken ill etc., the touch of a button will get you instant help and two of our elderly members have used the system several times and it is a life saving service. It is a service for the disabled and the pensioner, many if whom are frail and elderly but otherwise deemed able bodied and yet I know of at least one case - in their nineties, holding a blue badge and yet is not exempt from VAT on his telecare bill. Does not make a lot of sense to me. So what are our senior citizens doing about this very unfair system of some paying VAT and others not, for what is a life saving service? Frailty has to be taken into account with an emergency life saving service an argument must be if you are frail and old you cannot be called able bodied in many cases. We are trying to make the service fair to all. One of the questions we ask is, surely a holder of the blue
badge comes under the councils care system? You do not get a badge that easy, you are checked very thoroughly by a council care worker and yet one of our members has a blue badge but still pays VAT on the telecare. Does this make sense? Perhaps Central Bedfordshire Council should have a think about this apparently two faced coin? What can you do to help yourselves and others who might have a blue badge and yet is not exempt for VAT on the telecare service? At the time you got telecare and perhaps met the none exemption from VAT criteria, have circumstances changed, have you been diagnosed with an ailment that the medical profession consider chronic, have you recently gained a blue badge? If so, contact Social Services at Chicksands, the Headquarters of our council and put your case. A letter to your M.P. perhaps? It will all help the pensioner. Dunstable Senior Citizens will fight on but a letter from you to the council or your M.P. would not harm our cause and we would welcome any help in this direction. Thank you.
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. 20
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Bedfordshire’s Night Sky Looking Up!
February & March 2015
By Seb Jay Image by Jeff Barton
See Venus & Mars tango over the western horizon: Don’t miss out on the March Solar Eclipse! Friday February sees a celestial encounter fit for Valentine’s night romance as Venus and Mars tango over the western horizon at dusk. On 14th February look low to the west from an elevated location like Dunstable Downs. Bright Venus is unmistakable in the fading twilight. By 6:20pm Mars will be obvious too as a dull orange ‘star’ located slightly above and to the left of Venus. The two planets draw even closer together over the ensuing week, so do keep watching them if you have the chance.
Discover amazing Jupiter in a telescope:
As darkness falls over Bedfordshire in February and March this year another bright ‘star’ will be shining over towards the east and south-east. Jupiter is a must-see object in a telescope. Even a small telescope reveals Jupiter’s four Galilean moons in orbit around the giant planet, while larger telescopes let us glimpse cloud detail in Jupiter’s atmosphere.
20th March 2015 sees the UK experience a deep partial eclipse of the sun. From Bedfordshire just over 85 per cent of our warm yellow friend will be temporarily consumed by the moon’s disc. The event begins at 8:30am and lasts until 10:30am. Mid-eclipse, and the deepest darkness, is at 9:30am.
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& The Art Of Wallpaper
At Home In The Garden Go along to any DIY store or specialist decorating shop and you will see lots of different types of wall coverings, but how did they originate? The first type of paper was introduced in Egypt around 4000 BC and was called papyrus. It was from about 200 BC that the Chinese started to put glued rice paper onto their walls, and around 105AD that they began to make paper from textile waste. Knowledge spread from the Chinese to the Middle East via prisoners in the eighth century. It took until the twelfth century for papermaking to reach Europe. English manufacturing methods became world famous, and in the eighteenth century wallpapers from London workshops were highly sought after. Initially, hand painted papers imitated architectural details or materials like marble and stucco, but eventually other patterns emerged. The 1920’s are known as the Golden Age of Wallpaper as some 400 million rolls were sold during that period. The industry was revolutionized after WW2 when plastic resins were added to make wallpapers stain resistant, washable, and more durable. Whilst the popularity of wallpaper has ebbed and flowed in the intervening years, there is now more variety than ever and a wide price range. The choice of wallpaper can affect the mood and style of a room and can influences the selection of furnishing. To get the best effect from any paper however, it is important to hang it correctly, so we have ‘pasted’ some great tips opposite... 26
1 2
Make sure all your paper has the same lot number so that it matches.
Use a lining paper to prevent the top paper from creasing or stretching and help the paste to dry faster.
3
Apply a one-inch stripe of white paint along the top of the wall before papering over dark paint or wallpaper. It won't be as noticeable if the wallpaper fails to align exactly at the top.
4 5
Use a special plumb bob to get paper straight.
Your first strip should be about four inches longer than the height of the wall. Strips after that should be at least two inches longer top and bottom and may need to be more to ensure a pattern match.
6
Turn off the power before papering around switches and receptacles. Remove cover plates and paper over them. Then make a diagonal slit from opposite corners. Trim away the triangular flaps and replace the cover plate.
7 8 9 10
Double check newly hung strips for bubbles and seam matches. Use a sponge to wipe excess adhesive and rinse the sponge often.
Use a sharp utility knife to trim paper A special paste is needed to hang a border on top of wallpaper.
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In The Garden
in your garden you People often ask me, “Is there something always, “My greenhouse.” couldn’t live without?”... My reply is
A
The Greenhouse Effect
greenhouse has many benefits, chief of which for me is that it extends the gardening year. With a greenhouse you can potter in your garden all year round, and grow a range of plants which simply wouldn’t thrive without the extra protection. Before choosing a greenhouse you will need to check whether your local planning authority imposes any restrictions. While you don’t normally need planning permission, building regulations do have to be adhered to. Buy the biggest greenhouse you can afford that will fit comfortably on to your plot - you will always fill it! But even if you can only afford a tiny one - my first one had a base of just 4’ by 5.5’ (1.2m by 1.7m) - it will still be a worthwhile investment. The aluminium- framed types are very sturdy and relatively cheap. Wooden-framed constructions are more attractive though, and often better in a small garden where everything has to earn its keep. Western red cedar is good because it lasts a long time and weathers really well. Greenhouses are even more useful if they are heated. I started out with paraffin heaters, but found they produced a lot of condensation and were messy and smelly. Electric heating is best, and very economical if you fit a system thermostat so that it only switches on when necessary. Apart from heat the most important factor is ventilation. In high summer this is vital to prevent your plants from cooking. Automatic arms which open the vents at a pre-designated temperature are really useful. External blinds are also very good as they prevent sun scorch. Finally, fit staging along one edge of the greenhouse for your pots, and dig a soil or gravel bed on the other side for things like tomato plants. Now all you have to do is plant some seeds and invest in a few tender perennials.
28
Great Greenhouse Tips Fit your greenhouse to level foundations. Orientation isn’t important , but make sure it isn’t in the shadow of the house, or overhanging trees. Ventilate well. Any electrical work must be carried out or certified by a qualified electrician to comply with part P of the building regulations. Don’t be tempted to use a household electric heater. It won’t cope with the damp conditions in a greenhouse. Fit a water butt to the down pipes at either end of the greenhouse to conserve water.
Nest Boxes
This year, National Nest Box Week takes place from 14th-21st February. The event is organised by the British Trust for Ornithology. The idea started in 1997 following fears about birds losing their natural nest sites because of lots of trees being cut down, old buildings disappearing, gardens being ‘tidied’ and old houses being repaired. The Trust wants us to put up nest boxes so that we can protect the wildlife we have, and encourage even more birds to come into our gardens. It is estimated that there are now over 5 million nest boxes in the UK designed to help everything from Robins to Owls. Different types of nesting box attract different birds. So in a box with small holes, you might get Blue Tit’s, Nuthatches, Redstarts or House Sparrows. Boxes with larger holes may encourage Starlings, Spotted Woodpeckers and perhaps even Little Owls; and in very big boxes you might see Kestrels, Jackdaws, Stock Doves and Tawny Owls. There are also open fronted boxes which appeal to Robins, Spotted Flycatcher and Pied Wagtails. Imagine how lovely it would be to watch the birds going in and out of your boxes and hopefully some young ones hatching there. If you are careful and quiet, you can even peek inside the box from time to time when the eggs are incubating, as most birds will sit tight. If you want to count the eggs, observe in the early morning and wait until the female bird flies off for a quick meal. You can choose to buy some nest boxes from your local pet store or garden centre, or make some. Instructions for building boxes are available on many internet sites including www.bto.org/ the British Trust for Ornithology site. February is an ideal time to put boxes up, because pairs of small birds prosper towards the end of the month. You are also helping however if you put boxes up at any time of year, although 1 August to the 31 January is the time under Bird Protection Law when nests can be cleaned out, and any dead eggs found destroyed.
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Handy Hints Do not put nest boxes of the same type close to each other. Open fronted boxes should be hidden from view. Make sure cats cannot get into the boxes. Consider putting a metal plate around the hole to deter squirrels. Boxes should be sheltered from the weather. Keep the boxes away from bird feeders. Place between 1 and 5 metres high. Use screws that will not rust.
29
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auto Biographies
Toyota RAV 4
By Tim Barnes-Clay www.carwriteups.co.uk
t about their car.Geneva They named its The 1994 motor ketplace has evolved and matured ity, ease of access, lofty view of the road show signalled the arrival in line with customers’ changing requirements and preferences. ous packaging, versatility and reassuring of a new kind of vehicle, Generally speaking, two decades en when the going gets tough. ago, this type of car was regarded one that would revoluas a substitute to sporty hatchtionize the towards world mo14’s RAV4 points an even stronger backs and coupes. Today its popy use.tor The result isAt a car is more ularity refined market. thethat time is among families wanting a more fun car over multi-purpose teriorfew styling, a more airy cabin and loadpeople could have vehicles (MPVs) and estates. comfort and higher levels of safety. predicted the effect Over the years, Toyota has back with the current RAV4 is the old-worked hard to keep the model the Toyota RAV4 would rior. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not a major firmly at the heart of its segment, make.all the same. The car is without forfeiting the entertainings noticeable
to-drive uxurious, especially in ‘Invincible’ D4D quality that defined the The initial Recreational Activ- 2.2 original RAV4. ut theity cabin still looks at least a decade old. It’s Vehicle with 4-wheel drive When it came to creating the RAV4) uplooks a newverylatest ty or (hence anything. In opened fact it all hard-model, Toyota talked to for compact,that manoeuvrable mainlysector the switchgear looks reallyexisting dated.RAV4 customers around sport utility vehicles (SUVs). thepure globe to understand what was heel, much of that is forgotten once the Toyota had unpresumptuous aspi- best about their car. They named iving rations takes over. The RAV4 is smooth and for its new car, expecting its manoeuvrability, ease of acchy. Indeed, itssales all-wheel capability is worldwide of onlydrive around cess, lofty view of the road ahead, When 8,000 orders ingenious packaging, versatility cated4,500 than models. ever before.
swamped the Japanese automaker and reassuring capability, even in the first four weeks alone, when the going gets tough. ratedproduction Active Drive System volumes had has to bebeen developed As a result, 2014’s RAV4 points e engaging “sport” mode, with gadgetry to doubled. towards an even stronger focus on Tothe begin with, itof was avail- power family use. The result is a car that adjust amount twisting able as aand three-door with a tween theonly front rear axles. is more refined with better exterior 2.0-litre petrol engine and either styling, e whyfive-speed the RAV4manual was, and is, such a hit. It is a more airy cabin and or four-speed load-space, greater comfort and hanksautomatic to this car that the SUV market transmission. Measurhigher levels of safety. m a niche become vitalmore feature ofThe theonly drawback with the curing justto3.96m longa(little ority. than today’s Toyota Yaris), it was rent RAV4 is the old-fashioned unlike anything else at the time. interior. Don’t get me wrong, it’s The public had an appetite for the not a major issue – but it is noticenew kid on the block, however, able all the same. The car is unand in 1995 RAV4’s first full doubtedly luxurious, especially in year on sale – almost 6,800 were ‘Invincible’ 2.2 D4D Auto guise, sold, quickly establishing it as the but the cabin still looks at least a fourth best-selling car in Toyota’s decade old. It’s not poor quality 14-strong British line-up. or anything. In fact it all looks Twenty years on, and the RAV4 very hard-wearing. It’s mainly the is almost unrecognisable. That’s switchgear that looks really dated. because the compact SUV mar-
TS
32 d: 115mph
PROS ‘N’ CONS
Spacious √
Behind the wheel, much of that is forgotten once the pure pleasure of driving takes over. The RAV4 is smooth and gracefully punchy. Indeed, its all-wheel drive capability is more sophisticated than ever before. Toyota’s Integrated Active Drive System has been developed to offer a more engaging “sport” mode, with gadgetry to automatically adjust the amount of twisting power distributed between the front and rear axles. It’s easy to see why the RAV4 was, and is, such a hit. It is undoubtedly thanks to this car that the SUV market developed from a niche to become a vital feature of the motoring majority.
FAST FACTS Max speed: 115 mph 0-62 mph: 10.0 secs Combined mpg: 42.4 Engine: 2231cc 4 cylinder 16 valve turbo diesel Max. power (bhp): 148 at 3600 rpm Max. torque (lb/ft): 250 at 2800 rpm CO2: 176 g/km Price: £29,305 on the road PROS & CONS Spacious √ Punchy √ Grip √ Driving Position √ Dated Interior X
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Health Beauty & Wellbeing
By Maulia Selvarajah, BSc (Hons) MCOptom
Diabetes is the third leading cause of sight loss in the Eye diseases are also a common find at the opticians. country (source: www.RNIB.org.uk). In the UK alone They can occur at the back of your eyes, without there are 2.9 million sufferers, according to the NHS causing any symptoms for you to be aware of. It is and about 850,000 people who have the condition only in the late stage of eye diseases, like, glaucoma but are undiagnosed (source: www.NHS.co.uk). How and retinal detachments that you notice sudden would you know? Of course, seeing the GP would problems in your eye. This just shows how vital it be the most obvious answer. But don’t worry if you can be to get your eyes checked out. For example are one of many who don’t like paying the GP a visit, retinal detachment is when a layer at the back of the there is another answer. That answer is to have an eye slowly begins to peel away. Sounds creepy right? eye test with your local optician. It doesn’t happen in everyone, but the risk factors When was the last time you had a health include being very short-sighted, or playing check? For most people visiting the a lot of contact sports. The only changes Seeing GP for regular health checks is a bit a person may be aware of is bright ’t n is n the opticia daunting. Nevertheless visiting white flashes of lights in the corner of ses, the local opticians can be more their vision and an increase in black just about glas comfortable and can also answer dots that come in different sizes and t it’s abou many health related questions you shapes and appear to float about in r you may have. the vision. Usually when optometrists taking care of Going to the opticians isn’t just about see these signs you can expect to sit in eye health checking if you need glasses or not. hospital on the same day. Now don’t start Many people think it’s expensive. There are panicking, the treatment the hospital will give is many opticians that provide free eye tests and offers highly successful so it should be alright. or discounts on the frames. Nowadays seeing the It is very important to get children tested as well. Eye optician is more than just glasses, it’s about taking tests usually start at 3 years old. The tests done will care of your eye health. probably be slightly different to an adult test. Looking There are various tests that can be done by the at 3D pictures, and checking colour vision is all part optometrist. One of them includes looking into the of the eye examination. Tests can be done to spot back of the eye and checking for health problems early signs of a lazy eye. If your child is getting freand eye diseases. Health conditions such as diabetes, quent headaches, an eye test should be done to rule high blood pressure and high cholesterol can all be out glasses. Children don’t always know if what they detected just by checking the back of the eye. In most see is blurry or clear, and the sooner they are seen by opticians now they have a ‘Fundus Camera’ this is a an optometrist the better it is. clever piece of equipment that allows the optician to Eye tests should be done every two years for adults take a photo of the back of the eye. Optometrists can unless specified by the optometrist. Children should then sit down and talk to you about your photos and be seen every year. So if you haven’t had a test yet, show you if there is any problem. Pretty clever right? get yourself to your opticians! 38
DUNSTABLE EYE CENTRE 01582 608 449 www.decopticians.co.uk NSTABLE EYE Square, CENTRE DUNSTABLE EYE CENTRE 5 Ashton Dunstable, LU6 3SN DUNSTABLE EYEBedfordshire CENTRE
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Take the first step. Call 07970 933 486 peter@petergarner.org | www.petergarner.org www.thevinemagazine.com
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Cna yuo raed tihs? Unfortunately many children can not, with 75,000 children in England leaving primary school last year struggling or behind with their reading. Would you enjoy developing a love of books and reading with children in the Luton and Dunstable areas, providing children with a lifelong skill? Beanstalk Charity is looking for Reading Helper volunteers to support children with their reading in schools and you could help. Beanstalk is a national charity that has recently launched in the Luton and Dunstable areas to support some of the 75,000 children that leave primary school every year in England behind with their reading. There is a strong need for volunteers in the Luton and Dunstable areas and if you feel you could help in any way please get in touch. Each Reading Helper works with 3 children, for 30 minutes each, twice a week and continues to work with the same children throughout the school year, enabling the Reading Helper to see the children grow in their enjoyment and confidence of reading.
If you feel you could make a difference to a child’s life or to find out further information about Beanstalk you can call us on 01604 720969, email bedfordshire@beanstalkcharity.org.uk or visit our website www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk/reading-helpers.
Could you help children learn to read? Could you inspire a love of reading and books in children? Help Help support support some some of of the the 75,000 75,000 children children that that leave leave primary primary school school every year in England struggling with their reading. every year in England struggling with their reading. You You could could help help today today by by contacting contacting Beanstalk Beanstalk Charity Charity on on 01604 01604 720969 720969 or visiting www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk/reading-helpers or visiting www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk/reading-helpers and and apply apply to to become become aa Beanstalk Beanstalk Reading Reading Helper. Helper. 40
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Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles
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Across
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1. Rosy-cheeked child (6) 5. Sloped style of printing (6) 8. As soon as possible (abbr) (4) 9. Trivial, unimportant (8) 10. Air turbine (8) 11. Currency of Ireland (4) 12. Jewish greeting (6) 14. Undamaged (6) 16. Heroic, majestic (4) 18. Scare, intimidate (8) 20. Wall art or defacement (8) 21. Offer praise to God (4) 22. Official order (6) 23. Sycophants, toadies (3,3)
2. Marijuana (7) 3. Swift, speedy (5) 4. Difficult or unpleasant first-time experience (7,2,4) 5. The quality of being totally dependable or foolproof. (13) 6. Illness (7) 7. Situated within (5) 13. The Devil (7) 15. Incinerate, burn (7) 17. Clean-out, purify (5) 19. Aspires, wishes (5)
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Out&About
DUNSTABLE LADIES CHOIR Ladies - new members are welcome to join our choir. If you enjoy singing why not come to a Tuesday evening rehearsal from 7.30-9.30pm at Houghton Regis Baptist Church, Hammersmith Gardens LU5 5RG and give us a try. No audition necessary. We also have a lively social life including meals out, get-togethers and trips to concerts and shows. Further details from Pat Jackson 01582 520302.
HOUGHTON REGIS BOWLS CLUB Open day on the 4th may from 11am to around 4pm The only thing needed is flat soled shoes. All ages and abilities are welcome. Children over 12 years must be accompanied by a parent please. Light refreshments will be available. Please come and have a go, look forward seeing you all, any enquiries please ring me on 01582518645 DUNSTABLE BRIDGE CLUB We meet every Monday (except bank holidays) in Chews House in High Street South, Dunstable, from 1pm to 5pm. We would welcome new members of all standards and you do not need a partner. If anyone is interested please call: 01582 664485 DUNSTABLE PROBUS CLUB Dunstable PROBUS Club meets on the second Monday of the month and membership is open to retired or semi-retired professional and business men. The Club’s main object is the promotion of good fellowship. Members enjoy a variety of social activities and organized visits throughout the year and at their regular monthly meetings they are entertained by after-lunch speakers. If you are interested in joining the Club, please contact the Secretary Malcolm Partridge 01525 222711 LANGDALE CHURCH ‘HATTERS TEA’- informal neighbourhood group meets monthly on a Wednesday pm. Free tea/coffee & home-made cakes, quiz and raffle. 44
• Clubs • Groups • CLUB Events THE DUNSTABLE ORBIT • Community
Friends and Neighbours- monthly on a Thursday pm. Speakers and free tea/coffee. At Langdale Church. Other groups- table tennis, walking group and drawing for beginners Make the most of our community activities and meet new people in our community. Tel Colin, Community Worker 01582602980
TOTTERNHOE QUARRY VOLUNTEER WORK PARTIES Would you like to spend a day working in the fresh air and help look after this nature reserve? For more information or to confirm your attendance please contact Richard Knock on 07872 418279 richard.knock@wildlifebcn.org www.wildlifebcn.org
BREAKOUT SOCIAL CLUB We are a club for the over forty fives, not a singles club but a social club for people who enjoy going out but are on their own, where they can meet like-minded people, with a varied monthly programme covering Disco’s, Pub lunch’s, walks, parties and much, much more, we meet once a week in the front bar at the Conservative Club, High street North Dunstable For more information please contact Sandy on 07813 262556
BEDFORDSHIRE NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY Tuesday 17th February, Maulden Talk by Stuart Warrington: ‘The National Trust and Nature’, the challenges of the 21st Century. Special wildlife places in East Anglia. At Maulden Village Hall, TL048380, MK45 2DP at 8.00pm
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 THE BOGTROTTERS The Bogtrotters (Dunstable and District Walking and Hostelling Group) are a group of about 90 walkers, hikers and hostellers. We run a surprisingly diverse range of activities, including half and full day walks, hostelling trips, meals and evening activities. New members are always welcome. Prospective members are invited to get in touch via the website, give us a ring or just turn up to an event or walk. Enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk 01582 865966 Sue or Julian
Saturday 21st February, Broom Dragonfly exuviae ID workshop by Steve Cham. Examine dragonfly exuviae under microscopes. Meet at Jordans Mill Education Centre. off Southill Road, Broom, TL184430, SG18 9JY 2.00pm - 4.30pm. Saturday 14th March, Maulden Small Mammal Trapping, at Duck End NR, Moor Lane, Maulden, TL051374, at 8.30am. See mice, voles & shrews up close. Families welcome. Leader: Richard Lawrence. For more info visit our website www.bnhs.co.uk DUNSTABLE W.I. Dunstable W.I. Meet two evenings a month on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at Watlling School Bullpond Lane at 7.30pm. We are a friendly group and like to enjoy ourselves. We have a wide range of speakers with different talents and crafts, and also quiz nights to test our brains. We welcome new members so join us and make new friends. 12Tth FEB KEIRON STEVENS – HEALTH 26th FEB - MEMBERS EVENING 12th MARCH - JEWELLERY 26th MARCH - BIRTHDAY OUTING
PRIORY HOUSE Tel: 01582 891420 Mothering Sunday Afternoon Tea Saturday 7 March to Sunday 15 March Celebrate the Mother figure in your life with a Mother’s day Afternoon Tea at the fully licensed Priory House Tea Rooms. £17.50 per person Includes a complimentary posy for each table Must be booked in advance Bookings available Monday to Saturday 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm and Mothering Sunday 12 noon to 3.30 pm A 20% non refundable deposit is required at the time of booking to secure the reservation. Please ensure to advise of any specific dietary requirements in advance, as this may incur a small charg For more information telephone Barbara Fisher on 01582 665252 Spell Binding Stories The Story of Mulan Wed 18th Feb 2pm - 3.30 pm & Sat 10.30am - 12pm £8.50 per child including a gift to take home To celebrate the Chinese New Year the Priory House Word Witches invite you to take a trip to ancient China and follow the adventures of Mulan; the brave and head strong daughter of a General who defies her father and heads off to war. Spell Binding Story sessions will run throughout the year and will last approximately 1 hour 30 mins. Children will be entertained by one or both of the word witches and will get lunch and a gift to take home. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Contact Priory House on 01582 891420 or email prioryhouse@dunstable.gov.uk for more information and to book tickets TEA TIME TALES Talks of local and national interest with tea or coffee and a pastry. Alternate Thursday afternoons 2.30 - 4.00pm £4.75 per person 5th February
Brooke Bond Tea Factory Redbourn - Pauline Ridgwell 19th February William Booth’s Army & Dunstable - Major Carol Evans 5th March The Religious Houses of Bedfordshire - Vivienne Evans 19th March Women of The Special Operations Executive - Bryony Norburn THE HEALING TRUST Ardley Hill School, Lowther Rd, Each Thursday evening 7.30 - 9pm. No charge, donations accepted. NFSH T: Pam Hill on 01582 606182 Come for interest or healing. BREATHEASY Do you suffer from a lung condition? Then why not come and join our local Support group - breatheasy Part of the British lung foundation. We meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month at peter newton pavilion (Behind tesco) 2 - 4pm carers also welcome As well as supporting each other we have a variety of speakers and also arrange day trips out. New members most welcome More info phone michael on 01582 602348 DUNSTABLE & DISTRICT ORBIT CLUB Since its inception over 25 years ago, Orbit has raised nearly £60,000 for local charities. We also give our time to help organisations and people in the community. Orbit offers an active social calendar, with wide-ranging events to suit all budgets and tastes. Annual membership is just £15. We meet on the first and third Tuesday of the month at Dunstablians Rugby Club, Bidwell Park, Bedford Road, Houghton Regis, LU5 6JW from 8 pm. You’ll be guaranteed a warm welcome. For more information please visit www.orbitclub.org.uk/dunstable or contact Mark on 01582 539379 or Julie on 01582 535761. TODDINGTON HELPING HANDS We are a group of about 30 volunteers who provide lifts to the doctors, dentists, hospitals, hairdressers etc for the residents of Toddington, Chalgrave, Wingfield and Tebworth. We also carry out the delivery
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of prescriptions, shopping and general errand running to those who are not able to do so themselves. During the last quarter we completed in excess of 400 jobs in the local community. We urgently need more volunteer drivers. Tel: 01525 633660 THE NATIONAL TRUST 2nd Feb 2.30pm Migration Mysteries - Chris ward, wildlife photographer 4th March 7.45pm A Touch Of Glass, A Victorian Lantern Show - Gordon Casbeard & Tony Brown, Magic Lantern Society members. All meetings are held in the salvation army centre, dunstable. Guests are welcome at £3. We also run outings in the summer and a holiday once per year. If you would like to join the local group please contact: Lynda Power 01582 696193 SIGHT CONCERN BEDFORDSHIRE Volunteers Needed Sight Concern Bedfordshire is a local charity which aims to enhance the independence and quality of life of blind and partially sighted people in Bedfordshire and Luton Current volunteering opportunities includes: Home visiting and telephone befriending We offer full training and the chance to become a member of our friendly supportive team Contact Joanna Clark 01234 264023 Joanna.clark@sightconcern.org.uk FRIENDS OF STUDHAM COMMON We are a friendly,voluntary group whose aim is to conserve,maintain and promote Studham Common as a haven for wildlife and a place for everyone to enjoy.For this purpose we meet as a work party on the third Saturday of each month (except Dec.) The work is not onerous and we enjoy the exercise and the good company –and a picnic lunch is provided! Details from Pam on 01582 872608 pamrumfitt@btinternet.com
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Call Lee Daniels
07949 579797
lee.daniels50@ntlworld.com
Golinska Care Golinska Foot Foot Care Footcarefor for all all the Footcare thefamily family
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Footcare for all theCare family Golinska 07926 944302 /Foot 01582 51273
07926 944302 / 01 07926 944302 / 01582 512734 07926 944302 01582512734 512734 www.golinskafootcare.co www.golinskafootcare.com 07926 944302 // 01582 Katarzyna Golinska Foot Health Prac Cracked Heels Ingrown Nails Home Visiting Practice
Visiting Practice 07926Home 944302 / 01582 5 07926 944302 / 01582 512734 www.golinskafoot 01525 220826
www.golinskafootcare.com www.golinskafootcare.com Katarzyna FootMCFHP Health Practitioner MCF Katarzyna Golinska Foot HealthGolinska Practitioner MAFHP www.golinskafootcare.com www.ewwallace.co.uk Katarzyna Golinska Foot Health Practitioner MCFHP MAFHP Katarzyna Golinska Foot Health Practitioner MCFHP MAFHP
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Katarzyna Golinska Foot Health Practitioner MCFHP MAFHP
complete
“Big on Quality, small enough to care.”
Co.
refurb&roofing
FREE S QUOTE A n n n
complete c refurbishment and roofing service. Flat Roofing n Interior & Exterior Maintenance Tiled Roofing n EPDM Rubber Membranes Loft Conversions n Fascia & Guttering
Tel: 01582 690005 Mob: 07515 361972 dean.w.1@hotmail.com www.corr.org.uk
R FE 10 F O £
ER OR M O F ST S U E C S
W S NE LA
3C
Mon & Wed at 7.45pm Brewers Hill School Dunstable LU6 1AJ
Thurs & Sat at 9.30am St Mary’s Hall Eaton Bray LU6 2DJ
CALL: 01525 715208
Email: angelajazzercise@gmail.com www.jazzercise.co.uk www.thevinemagazine.com