The Vine Villages - February / March 2018 - Issue 35

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Covering The Villages Surrounding Dunstable

Local News

What’s On

Puzzles

Credit Cards

Taking Control!

By Martin Lewis

This Issue

PANCAKES Delicious Recipes

Local Easter Activities Cadburys Egg Trails

Connecting local people to local businesses

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Editor: Scott Nightingale Editor: Scott Advertising &Nightingale Editorial:

Inside this issue...

Inside this issue...

.co.uk 6 Revitalising Dunstable

• Local Business Directory • Local Events • Local News • Local Offers ADD YOUR LISTING TODAY!

Shelly Nesbitt & Editorial: Advertising Tel: 01525 222379 / 07852 453043 Shelly Nesbitt Email: info@thevinemagazine.co.uk Tel: 01525 222379 / 07852 453043 Email: info@thevinemagazine.co.uk

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the content of advertising articles in Whilst every care hasand been taken published to ensure the this magazine are accurate, publisher content of advertising and neither articles the published in orthis its magazine editorial contributors accept and are accurate, can neither the publisher hereby disclaim contributors any liability to any party and to loss or its editorial can accept orhereby damage causedany by liability errors. Neither do they disclaim to any party to loss reflect the opinion this publication. or damage causedofby errors.

NeitherThe do Vine they does notthe officially endorse any advertising reflect opinion of this publication.

The Vine material thisany publication. does notincluded officiallywithin endorse advertising No part of this publication reproduced material included withinmay thisbe publication. without permission.

No partprior of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission.

8 Revitalising Dunstable 10 Eden On Our Doorstep?

10 Local News 12 Local News 26 Delicious Pancakes 20 TeamSport - Competition 28 Mothers Day 22 Martin Lewis: Money Matters 30 Puzzles 26 At Home: Caring For Houseplants 32 Martin Lewis: Money Matters 28 In The Garden 36 At Home: Bathrooms 32 Body Change 4U: Calories 40 In The Garden: Clematis Care 34 Autos: Mercedes C220 AMG 44 Auto: SEAT Ibiza FR 36 Puzzles 46 Looking Up 38 Snippets: The Gunpowder Plot 48 Out & About 46 A Pensioners View Copy deadline 48 Out & About

Copy fordeadline next issue: for March next issue: 18th

November 2018 18th

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Issue 35 • February / March 2018

5

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7

New Look Dunstable High Street Revitalising Dunstable

This year is shaping up to be a good one for Dunstable town centre, one where you’ll begin to see the evidence of more Central Bedfordshire Council regeneration work – particularly on the High Street.

wonderful turn in this sector and especially in the areas of food, drink and entertainment. Our scheme is aimed at helping participating businesses stand out more and to entice more people into the town.

In the next few months you’ll see a number of premises, that successfully bid for a portion of our Market Town Regeneration Fund, begin transformations to enhance their offer and help boost the vibrancy of the town.

So, over the next 12 months, Caffe Latte and Lombardo’s – an established Italian food and drink presence in Dunstable for 40 years – are just two of the businesses that will benefit from this rejuvenation.

So too will the vacant unit at 43 High Street North.

Previously an old and unattractive prospect for potential tenants, a new lease of life will provide a home for another new business in the town.

Some of this work has already brought benefits, of course. Part of the £1.25million worth of co-funding given by us and Dunstable Town Council has resulted in the Town Ranger programme and the Splash Park and Splashside Café on Bennett’s Recreation Ground, to name just two examples that are already helping to shape and support economic growth.

But we also allocated £1million for a Central Bedfordshire-wide High Street Improvement Scheme, offering grants to landlords and businesses for up to 60 per cent of total costs of renovating shop fronts, forecourts and making improvements to vacant units. The take-up in town has again been very pleasing.

I’ve written on these pages before about Dunstable’s retail offer and how I see it developing in the future, as a thriving centre for independent retailers and businesses.

The good news is that Dunstable already does a

8

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This will all complement our other plans to give you back your High Street. Having already begun re-routing heavy goods traffic away from the High Street, the next step will first be the removal of railings and unnecessary street clutter to make it more pedestrian friendly.

All of which will provide even more reason to visit Dunstable town centre.

Images above: An artists impression of the renovated shop fronts of Lombardo’s and Caffe Latte, complete with awnings.

By Cllr Nigel Young, Central Bedfordshire Council Executive Member for Regeneration

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local News Notices local local News

Organisers of this year’s Luton and Bedfordshire Community Awards are inviting locally focused charities to apply for what could be a massive cash boost later this year.

make up the vibrant, multicultural community across Luton and Bedfordshire.

In that time, a host of charities have benefited from a combined total of £125,000, including the Luton Food Bank, Luton & Dunstable Hospital, and Level Trust to name just three.

The money comes from donations from fundraising throughout the year and is presented on the awards evening.

A new form, available from the awards website, asks for information on the aims and objectives of the charities, their approximate fundraising income and details how the charity applicant helps to benefit the local community in and around Luton and Bedfordshire.

to put forward a compelling case for this funding pot. The committee of judges, sponsors, and members of the local community will choose their winner later this year.

“The most important thing that the committee will be looking for is that there is something tangible to come Last year’s Community Awards raised £25,000 for the Luton Food from the money. The community Bank to buy a new van and pay the must be able to see what difference The deadline for entering and other insurance, tax and fuel for the next the cash makes.” details are available on the Comfour years.

Over the last eight years the awards munity Awards website.

Mostaque Koyes, the awards organ- have recognised and rewarded the www.ciluton.co.uk/communityiser, said: “We are inviting charities magnificent teams and people who awards

Cheering Volunteering Is Back For 2018!

Central Bedfordshire’s Cheering Volunteering Awards are returning, with the fourth annual awards and celebration evening taking place on Tuesday 5th June.

It will again be held at the Grove Theatre, in Dunstable, and is a terrific opportunity to celebrate the work of volunteers across Central Bedfordshire.

You will be able to nominate people or groups for six different awards, including a new category for 2018: Sports Volunteer.

Nominations opened on Monday 8th January and will remain open for almost three months in which time you

10 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

can nominate in as many categories as you like.

Applications for Inspiring Volunteering grants are also now open.

There’s a total funding pot of £5,000 available for projects which encourage volunteering or kick-start new activities involving volunteers.

Grant awards will be made from a minimum of £100 to a maximum of £1,000.

Councillor Carole Hegley, Executive Member for Social Care and Housing, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Community and Voluntary services, Community Action and our sponsors Biffa, Prologis, Aragon, Jeakins Weir and Beds Fire and Rescue to again celebrate the contribution of volunteers across Central Bedfordshire.

“We’ve introduced a new Sports Volunteer award for 2018, so when entries open next month then have a think about nominating, for example, those people who brave cold winter mornings to encourage youngsters in a variety of sports.

“We were delighted to help 14 different groups and organisations with our grants scheme last year, so I would encourage people to apply for those too.”

Nominations and grant application forms are available at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk

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11

local News

Fairtrade Fortnight 2018

Fairtrade invites you to

'Come On In'

Find information about the campaign at:

www.fairtrade.org.uk/fortnight Visit the website www.fairtradell.co.uk facebook & Twitter @FairtradeLL Fairtrade Fortnight 2018 will challenge the British public to open their doors to Fairtrade and help close the door on the exploitation facing the people who produce the things we love to eat, drink, and wear.

The nationwide celebrity fronted campaign ‘Come On In’ will run from Monday 26 February until Sunday 11 March and will invite you to come in to the world of the people who grow our food to see what life can be like when farmers and workers aren’t paid fairly.

The campaign will also explore how businesses, farmers, workers and shoppers come together through Fairtrade to change this.

Thousands of events will take place including breakfasts, breaks, bake-offs and more as people ‘come on in’ and find out more about Fairtrade.

Marcial Quintero is a member of Coobana, a Fairtrade banana co-operative in Panama said: “Before joining Fairtrade we didn’t see any benefits, development or profit. The price we used to receive per box wasn’t enough to cover our costs – and for 17 years the price didn’t change. Since starting with Fairtrade it’s made a mega-revolution in our lives."

Locally, Fairtrade Leighton Linslade are having two product tastings at local supermarkets, a facebook campaign among local businesses, and are delighted that our local Oxfam shop is offering a 20% discount on Cafe Direct products as well as special window display. Leighton’s specialist health food shop, Nature’s Harvest ,will also have a window display to promote Fairtrade products..

Sally Reith, Fairtrade Leighton Linslade’s spokesperson said: “It’s a scandalous reality that millions of farmers and workers are being ripped off despite working hard to provide the products we love.

12 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Unfairness in global trade is rooted in centuries of exploitation. Yet across the globe, millions of hard-working producers like Marcial are unravelling this legacy. They’re fighting for a fair deal, supported

by Fairtrade, earning their way out of poverty and transforming their communities.

“More people choosing, sharing and shouting about Fairtrade in the UK during Fairtrade Fortnight will open doors for more producers like Marcial to break the stranglehold of poverty prices.”

Fairtrade is the most widely recognised ethical label in the world and one that has paved a more conscious way of shopping since it started more than 22 years ago.

It currently works with 1.6 million farmers and workers across 74 developing countries, providing a safety net against volatile market prices and the Fairtrade Premium - often the only resource to improve their social, economic and environmental conditions.

Last year’s campaign saw more than 5,000 events held in communities, schools, workplaces and places of worship across the UK. Hundreds of thousands of supporters join forces to shine a light on the challenges faced by farmers. There will also be exciting new products launched, offers and competitions from hundreds of Fairtrade companies, retailers and other places to visit.

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sales@vansarblinds.co.uk Issue 35 • February / March 2018

13

local Community

Dunstable Businesses Flip Out For Local Charities Flip Flip Hooray! Dunstable Pancake Race returns for a third year on Tuesday 13th February 2018 at 12 Noon.

Organised again by Ed Harrison, Managing Director of Deakin-White - Dunstable’s Award-Winning Estate Agent & President of Pride of Dunstable Business Supper Club, along with Steve Spicer of Spicer & Co. Accountants & Vice President of Pride of Dunstable, they hope this years race will be bigger and batter than ever and are encouraging all local businesses and community groups to sign up to help raise money for local charities.

Last year 18 teams battled it out to be the best flipping team: four relay races; a semi-final and a final resulted in HQ Sports Bar being crowned champion flippers! But Ed and Steve are aiming to beat that this year and believe the more teams the batter!! So, are you ready for this year's challenge? Have you got your team of four organised yet? If not you had better get cracking!

As well as raising money for local charities, Ed and Steve hope that the Pancake Race can become an annual tradition for the town and an event that will bring the community together, much like the old custom of Orange Rolling which took place each year up until 1968. Many readers will remember taking part in the annual Orange Roll which was a custom unique to Dunstable and took place at Pascombe Pit on Dunstable Downs every Good Friday. The tradition came to an eventual end in 1968 due to Health and Safety regulations and lack of support from local traders but many townsfolk still remember this event with fondness!

So, for some pantastic fun and to support a worthwhile cause come on down to Grove Park to cheer on your team.

Open to local businesses or community groups.

Entry costs just ÂŁ20 per team, email Reception@ Deakin-White.co.uk for your entry form.

The race takes place, as it has for the last few years, outside the Grove Theatre and HQ Sports Bar at Grove Park in Dunstable. It will be half term so if you don't want to take part you can still come along and watch the fun from 12 noon.

Proceeds go to The Mayor of Dunstable's Charities which this year are the Dunstable & District Scout Council, Hospice at Home Volunteers & South Bedfordshire Dial a Ride.

The 2018 Dunstable Pancake Race is sponsored by DeakinWhite and Spicer & Co, in association with HQ Bar; Grove Theatre; Dunstable Town Council & Gents Barbering.

14 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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r to get more information from a friendlywithout member our team. liability of to UK Town Maps ng suppliers of blinds, so don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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Issue 35 • February / March 2018

15

local local Community News

STRICTLY MEN ONLY AT MAST Sorry ladies, only men can join this friendship group. It may be politically incorrect but the Men's Association of Stanbridge & Tilsworth is strictly blokes only.

Formed in 1993, the association is a non-profitmaking organisation with just one aim – to have fun without the wives and girlfriends in tow.

Membership is open to all men in the two villages and, at the discretion of the committee, men who Nexus Fostering, an independent fostering formerly lived in Stanbridge & Tilsworth can also agency, have recently opened their first office become members. in Great Marlings, Luton. The office was ofMeetings usually revolve around a guest speaker ficially opened on 6th November 2017, and and members enjoy to activities such as quiz nights currently is home four staff. and 10-pin bowling.

The Luton team are already looking for more They alsotohold annual Cheesecarers, and Wine nightto people joinan them as foster in order near Christmas, a BBQ a coach in the provide safe and stableand homes to outing local children summer, as well as the annual dinner/dance, when and young people. wives and girlfriends are welcome.

Suzanne Rees, Deputy Area Manager, said, There is a so raffle at each and they raise “We are pleased to meeting add another localised money Cancer Research, but family, their main office for to the Nexus Fostering andaim we is toknow get together and have an enjoyable evening. it will enable us to help more young Mast is actively looking for new members so please people.” visit our new website at www.mast.org.uk or phone “Foster carers are needed everywhere, so if Paul 01525 for more details.give us a youon have been210834 considering it, please call and we can talk you through the process to see if it’s forCoffee you.”

Morning The office will provide a fostering service not AmaWaterways Wednesday 17th only in Luton, but in the surrounding areas, January 2018 The Top Voted River Cruise Line including Stevenage, Hitchin, Dunstable, and Visions of Greece Wednesday 21st Biggleswade.

February 2018 Paradise is a place on earth, possibly Greece The team have moved from their office in America TravelitService Wednesdayand 14th this has North Hitchin, brought with the ability March 2018 Canada And The USA - The Land of Opportunity for more drop-in events for locals who are Intrepid Wednesday 18 interested inth fostering to attend.

April 2018 Small Group Tours Giving You Real Life Experiences Staff are happy to meet any prospective carers Holidays Wednesday 23rd for an informal chat in theLeger Butterworth Centre Battlefields And Escorted Coach Tours May 2018 café. If you would like to speak to Nexus FosSerenity Holidays Wednesday 13th tering Luton, call the team on 01462 431 774.

June 2018 The Gambia, Cape Verde and Goa – Winter Sun Destinations With A Difference

Avalon Waterways Wednesday in 18 2002 by a professional Founded social July 2018 Cruises With Space To Relax & Freedom To worker, NexusRiver Fostering provides a personal, Explore knowledgeable, and supportive service to we will be local holding foster carers, lookedEvery aftermonth children, and a free event where you authorities. It has received Ofsted ‘outstanding’ can come along and have a cup of teabased or coffee and status several times. Originally in Lonbiscuits with a free talk about a don, it has now grown different to 8 offices spanning type of holiday from an expert!

Essex to Cheshire, Wiltshire toindustry Norfolk and Each talk starts at 11:00am. everywhere in between. th

16 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Encourage Youngsters To

Ready… Vet… Go! Saturday 10th - Sunday 18th February

Young animal enthusi- a chimpanzee soft toy, to asts can try their hand update its heart monitor.

To fully experience the at being Vets in Action varied life of a Zoo vet, this half term at ZSL youngsters can practise their newly-learned skills Whipsnade Zoo by carrying out their own health checks on soft toy Aspiring young vets can put their animal care skills rabbits, guinea pigs and to the test at ZSL Whip- rats. snade Zoo this February half-term with Vets in Action, a fascinating roleplaying experience for children.

During a fun-filled week of immersive activities from Saturday 10 to Sunday 18 February, kids can experience firsthand what it takes to be a vet at the UK’s largest zoo. Upon arrival at the specially created ‘Animal Hospital’, budding vets will be placed at the heart of the action, learning how to examine, x-ray and perform treatments on different animals.

Children will be able to watch the Zoo’s team of expert vets conduct a health-check on a replica lion and operate on

Alongside the exciting role-play activities, there will be lots of interesting talks covering the captivating world of animal medicine, and demonstrating how ZSL Whipsnade Zoo’s team of vets ensure the Zoo’s 3,000 animals stay fit and healthy.

Promising to be a fun day out for the whole family, Vets in Action at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo will run from Saturday 10th to Sunday 18th February.

Book online now at www. zsl.org and take advantage of the Weather Buster Flexi Ticket, which gives you a 10% discount and allows you to use your purchased tickets to visit on any date before 29th March.

Recruiting Evening and Weekend Home Carers To join our team to care for people in their own homes in our local villages (Flitwick, Ampthill, Toddington, Barton and surrounding areas)       

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We care for our carers so they can care for you Car owner/driver essential. To apply call 01525 877088 Or email: mail@acaringcompany.org Or visit us at 10A High Street, Toddington or www.acaringcompany.org

Issue 35 • February / March 2018

17

local Community

The Rotary Club of Dunstable In my last report I stated that our club would be busy in the forthcoming months and we certainly were.

December was the Santa Sleigh visiting most streets in and around Dunstable and stationed at most of the supermarkets at weekends.

The bout of snow didn’t help, forcing us to abandon 2 complete streets and also one of the supermarket visits. The outside organisations stepped in and supported us on occasions when our own members were ill or unable to help.

Over the period between the 1st and the 24th December we raised a total in excess of ÂŁ14,000, a brilliant result. To mention everyone

who helped would be impossible but the person(s) who should get a special mention is our second Vice President, Graham Bourne and his wife Angela, who night after night counted the money and made sure everything was ready for the next night. Thank you, Graham.

back there in 2019! The freezing cold weather did not deter nearly 500 people who came through the doors to look round the 80 or so stalls. The next fair is on 7th May at Houghton Regis. Thanks to Alan Tarsey who once again coordinated another successful event.

On Christmas Day, 24 lunches were distributed to people less fortunate than ourselves. This total was down on last year but nevertheless it is a significant part of our community work and helped annually by Dunstable Salvation Army

For more information on our Rotary Club, please contact Roger Sharp on 01582 606405.

On the 1st January, the first of three of our annual Antiques and Collectors Fairs, took place at Houghton Regis Leisure Centre.

The Dunstable Leisure Centre is being re-built and we hope to be

18 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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Issue 35 • February / March 2018

21

local Notices

CLERK REQUIRED FOR Association Of Dunstable Charities

The Association is the umbrella organisation for six local charities and is looking to appoint a new Clerk.

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Issue 35 • February / March 2018

23

local News

Join The Nexus Family Could you foster a child?

Nexus Fostering, an independent fostering agency, have recently opened their first office in Great Marlings, Luton. The office was officially opened on 6th November 2017, and currently is home to four staff.

The Luton team are already looking for more people to join them as foster carers, in order to provide safe and stable homes to local children and young people.

Suzanne Rees, Deputy Area Manager, said, “We are so pleased to add another localised office to the Nexus Fostering family, and we know it will enable us to help more young people.”

“Foster carers are needed everywhere, so if you have been considering it, please give us a call and we can talk you through the process to see if it’s for you.”

The office will provide a fostering service not only in Luton, but in the surrounding areas, including Stevenage, Hitchin, Dunstable, and Biggleswade.

The team have moved from their office in Hitchin, and this has brought with it the ability for more drop-in events for locals who are interested in fostering to attend.

Staff are happy to meet any prospective carers for an informal chat in the Butterworth Centre café. If you would like to speak to Nexus Fostering Luton, call the team on 01462 431 774.

Founded in 2002 by a professional social worker, Nexus Fostering provides a personal, knowledgeable, and supportive service to foster carers, looked after children, and local authorities. It has received Ofsted ‘outstanding’ status several times. Originally based in London, it has now grown to 8 offices spanning Essex to Cheshire, Wiltshire to Norfolk and everywhere in between.

24 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Council Urges Residents To Register Household Appliances

Encourage Youngsters To

Ready… Vet… Go! Saturday 10th - Sunday 18th February

Young animal enthusi- a chimpanzee soft toy, to asts can try their hand update its heart monitor.

To fully experience the at being Vets in Action varied life of a Zoo vet, Central Bedfordshire Council’s Public Protection this half term at ZSL youngsters can practise Team is urging the publictheir to take a few minutes newly-learned skills Whipsnade Zoo to record the millions of by white goods they carrying outthat their own health checks on soft toy rely onyoung everyvets daycan but have never registered.

Aspiring put their animal care skills rabbits, guinea pigs and rats. the council is this Whipsafety initiative, to Supporting the test at ZSL encouraging people to remember to take snade Zoo this more February Alongside the exciting this important precaution to ensure they can be half-term with Vets in role-play activities, contacted swiftly if a safety recall or repair is there ever Action, a fascinating rolewill be lots of interesting needed. playing experience for talks covering the captichildren.

According to the most recent research, thousands vating world of animal of consumers are still missing out on product medicine, and demonstratDuring a fun-filled week safety warnings because they register aping fail howtoZSL Whipsnade of immersive activipliances such as fridges, freezers and washing Zoo’s team of vets ensure ties from Saturday 10 to machines. Appliance recalls areZoo’s rare, 3,000 but millions the animals Sunday 18 February, kids of large appliances are unregistered. stay fit andUnlike healthy.cars, can experience firstthis leaves the vast majority untraceable if a safety hand what it takes to be action becomes necessary.Promising to be a fun a vet at the UK’s largest daytoday, out for the whole zoo.

Upon arrival at published the YouGov research shows that less Vets Actionthat at specially created ‘Animal than half of owners (46%)family, register theinfridges ZSL Whipsnade Zoo will Hospital’, budding they have bought.vets The survey found that many aprun from Saturday will be placed at the heart because pliances aren’t registered their owners10th don’t Sunday 18th February. ofthink the action, learning(39%). to it’s necessary Very few people (15%) online now at the www. how to examine, and Book realise that theyx-ray can register an appliance with zsl.org and take advantage perform treatments manufacturer, evenonif they acquired it second hand of the Weather Buster different animals. or inherited it.

Flexi Ticket, which gives It is recommended that people all theirand you aregister 10% discount Children will be able to household appliances allowspurposes, you to useand your watch the Zoo’s team for safety appliances up to 12 tickets years old. to visit ofincludes expert vets conductthat arepurchased Appliances can be registered online at on any date before 29th a health-check on a repwww.registermyappliance.org.uk.

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E1

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Mothers everywhere…

Mothers everywhere…

‘thank you’ ‘thank you’

Mother’s Day originated in America, but in England in the effort to write to their Mothers”. A whole   and Wales it’s celebrated as one and the same as century later, Anna Jarvis still has a voice.   Mothering Sunday.

When an American newspaper was recently quoted     “What’s the difference?” I hear you exclaim! in estimating an average of $139 (roughly £90)      Well, Mothering Sunday is in fact a Christian holiday being spent, it does seem as if the original idea of      celebrating not birth mothers but mother church. visiting your Mother/writing to her to tell her how     Which is why in the UK (and Ireland and Nigeria) much you mean to her, or completing an act of     Mother’s Day is on the fourth Sunday of Lent and kindness to make her life easier, have been some    not on the second Sunday of May like the US and what swamped by the idea that if you buy her £90     80 other participating countries. worth of jewellery, you’re showing your apprecia    The founder of the modern Mothers Day was tion.

Which I’m sure a lot of Mums would be more      Anna Jarvis who created the holiday in 1905 to than happy with! I know my Mum would be thrilled     honour her Mother Ann Reeves Jarvis, the day was to  receive a fancy gift on Mothering Sunday; HOW    first recognised and celebrated in 1908. She saw EVER, I also know my Mum is equally always really     it as a perfect time to honour your Mother, ‘the pleased to spend time with my brother and myself.    person who has done more for you than anyone Admittedly, we usually go to the same place for      in this world’. In 1914, President Wilson officially a lunch or dinner so money IS spent but I have     designated the second Sunday in May as Mother’s many happy memories of all taking the time to see      Day. By the early 1920’s, Hallmark had got it’s hands each other and spending that time laughing and      on the opportunity and started selling Mother’s Day really catching up with one another. Life gets really     cards.

However, Anna had created the occasion for busy and it’s sometimes difficult to find time when     sentiment, not for profit and she tried to stop the we’re all busy as a family, so for us, Mother’s Day     campaign she’d started and fought so hard for. Sadly is slightly more to the Anna Jarvis way of thinking.      she was so bitter at the commercialism, she ended No big gifts, but time spent together, and hopefully     up a lonely person dying furious at the way the our Mum knows that by meeting up and teasing her     holiday had taken form and even on one occasion for the afternoon (as is our way when my brother    was arrested for disturbing the peace after protest- and I get together) we are in fact, in our own little     ing at a confab of the American War Mothers who way trying to show her how much she means to us     were selling carnations.

Her initial idea however, and how much we value her.     only picked up in popularity and is now celebrated This year is an exciting one for me, it’s my very first       all over the world. Unfortunately, I’m not sure Miss year as a Mother myself, as my baby is 8 months    Jarvis would be very happy at the development of old, I’m not expecting her to show much more ap   the day. If selling cards and a few carnations made preciation than perhaps throwing up on me slightly     her angry enough to end up in jail, I can only imag- less than usual, but as Scarlett grows up, I hope that    ine which words she’d use to describe the commer- however busy her life gets, she will enjoy putting    cialism the day has taken on in modern day! aside a bit of time to come and see her Mum, even     However, her spirit has not been completely if just to share what she’s been up to. As a Mother       destroyed, if you put ‘Mother’s Day’ into Google, myself I now understand just how much joy having     as well as the inevitable MOTHERS DAY SALE/ children can bring, and I understand how precious      HOTEL BREAKS FOR MOTHERS DAY and Motherhood is. No fancy gift would ever be able to      other similarly commercial advertisements, you’ll take the place of seeing my little girl happy.     find a fair few articles and campaigns rememberMother’s Day has become very commercial but     ing the true spirit the holiday was set up for in the that’s not how it started, but any appreciation of      first place, titles such as “Let’s cut out the comMotherhood, in my opinion, is worthwhile so al   mercialism from Mother’s Day.” I even came across though it may not all be to her tastes, we have Anna   a petition to make it illegal for card companies to Jarvis to thank for the holiday. So to the memory of sell greetings cards with the argument that “printed Anna Jarvis, her own Mother and Mothers everycards are just a way of people not bothering to put where, thank you!

28 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

I offer a completely confidential Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapeutic Counselling Service in Dunstable.

I am a member of the BACP, National Counselling Society and National Hypnotherapy Society.

Would talking help?

We can all at some time in our lives need support, counselling offers a confidential space where you can explore what is going on for you and make effective change happen.

If you would like to discuss your individual needs please feel free to contact me on

01582 666856 or 07808 740971

Email: therapy@lauraduffy.co.uk Please visit my website for useful information www.lauraduffy.co.uk Issue 35 • February / March 2018

29

Puzzles

Answers on page 62

Across

Down

1. Lack (10) 7. Smell (5) 8. Clap (7) 10. Divinity (8) 11. Collapse (4) 13. Dethrone (6) 15. Rectitude (6) 17. Past (4) 18. Squeeze (8) 21. Expert (7) 22. Rule (5) 23. Wide separation (10)

1. Idler (5) 2. Intrepid (8) 3. Alter (6) 4. Spot (4) 5. Garland (7) 6. Finicky (10) 9. Gloomy (10) 12. Scatter (8) 14. Exact (7) 16. Caress (6) 19. Wrongs (5) 20. Too (4)

9

7 MUSTY

5

2

8

6

1 4

6

1 9

9 2 8

7

2

8

5

3

9

7

4 6

SUCKS

www.thevinemagazine.co.uk 30 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Issue 35 • February / March 2018

39

31

Money Matters By Martin Lewis

Take Control Of Credit Card Debt @martinslewis

Letterboxes become dangerous at this time of year, and not just due to trapped fingers. Mail takes on a demonic hue for many awaiting credit card statements with Christmas’ spending on to land on the doormat.

So if your plastic has a festive hangover, don’t ignore it, it’s time to sort it.

There are three key rule to sorting your existing debts: 1. Stop borrowing more.

2. Cut the interest rate. This means your repayments clear the actual debt rather than just profit the lender.

3. If you’ve more than one debt, prioritise repaying the one with the highest interest rate first – as it’s growing fastest – and just pay the minimums on everything else.

The key weapon to cut interest is a balance transfer This is where you get a new card(s) that repays debts on existing credit or store cards for you, so you shift the debt and owe it, but at no interest cost. And there’s another ‘rule of three’ here to get the right card.

1. Don’t apply willy-nilly, first see what you’ll be accepted for. When you apply for a credit card they do a credit check. Yet banks are the type of organisation that’d lend you an umbrella when the sun shines and ask for it back when it rains. So those in most need of cutting their existing debt costs tend to be those who struggle most to be accepted.

Worse still just applying for a card marks your credit file, which has a marginally negative impact, so if you’re rejected being accepted elsewhere gets slightly tougher. To help, use an eligibility calculator, like mine at www.moneysavingexpert.com/BTeligibility.

32 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

These let you home in on the right cards, by showing which of the top deals you’re most likely to be accepted for – and they don’t impact your future creditworthiness.

2. Go for the card with the lowest fee in the time you need. Most balance transfer cards charge a one-off fee on the amount of debt transferred up to 3% (so £30 per £1,000 shifted).

In general the longer the 0% period the higher the fee, so you should aim for the card with the lowest fee but ensuring the 0% period is long enough. So calculate how long you think you’ll take to clear the debt, add a bit for safety, then pick the lowest fee within that time. If you’re not sure play long and go safe.

The longest current 0% card is www.barclaycard.co.uk at ‘up to’ 38 months 0% with a 1.4% fee (19.9% rep APR after). The longest fee-free card is www.halifax. co.uk at ‘up to’ 29 months 0% (19.9% rep APR after).

Full best buys at www.mse.me/balancetransfers.

3. Watch for ‘up to’ cards. As you’ll note those best buys are ‘up to’ cards. They tend not to say this overtly but you will spot it in the small print. This means, depending on credit score, some who are accepted will get a shorter 0%. Frustratingly there is no way to know this beforehand.

However, in general if you do an eligibility check and the only cards showing up that you have a decent chance are ‘up to’s’ then you’re likely to get a shorter 0% with all of them.

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Issue 35 • February / March 2018

33

The longest non-up to 0% card is www.sainsburysbank.co.uk at 36 months 0% with a 2.89% fee – so if accepted that’s what you get and it also offers a non-up to fee-free option for 28 months 0% (both are 18.9% rep APR after). If you’ve a decent chance of getting those, then they may be worth plumping for.

The Balance transfer golden rules…

My credit limit is not big enough. What should I do?

Shift as much of your most expensive debt to the card as you can. At least you’ll save on that. When done, follow the process above again to see if you can get a second card for some more. Though each subsequent application can get more difficult as each marks your credit file.

Getting the right cards only half the job, once you’ve got it you need to ensure you use it the right way. a) Always clear the debt on the card or transfer again before the 0% ends or you pay the high APR. b) Never miss the minimum monthly repayment or you can lose the 0%. c) Don’t spend or withdraw cash on the card. It usually isn’t at the cheap rate. d) You must usually do the transfer quickly, most cards limits are 60 - 90 days to get the 0%.

If my best chances of acceptance are only say 30% should I bother applying?

That means 3 in 10 of those in your position will get accepted. If cutting this debt’s cost is your priority (i.e. you’re not about to get a mortgage the next week) then you may as well try, one application won’t hurt that much, and this is what you build up your credit score for anyway.

Balance transfer common questions (and the answers too, obvs)

If you can’t even meet minimum monthly payments, you have non-mortgage debts bigger than a year’s salary or you have depression or anxiety over it, you’re in what I define as debt crisis.

Can it clear multiple cards?

Yes, if the new credit limit’s big enough.

How big will the credit limit be?

Lenders tend to look at how much you earn and how much other debt you have. It can be anything from £100 to £25,000. You can usually transfer up to around 90-95% of it.

Struggling to sleep due to your debts?

In that case forget what I’ve written above and instead get free, one-on-one debt-counselling help from www.

CitizensAdvice.org, www.capuk.org, www.StepChange. org or www.NationalDebtline.co.uk. They are there to help, not judge. The most common thing I hear after is: “I finally got a good night’s sleep”.

Although Money Matters is based on extensive research and personal knowledge, Martin Lewis is not necessarily qualified in the given field/subject. We would therefore always recommend that readers take this information as advice and do their own research before committing.

34 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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www.house-hold.co.uk Issue 35 • February / March 2018

35

HomeHome &Garden &Garden

Home Scene

ful watering and regular ful misting wateringthey and regular mis can adjust to a hot conservatory can adjust tooraahot conserv cold bathroom, but they colddon’t bathroom, like to but they do be moved around. be moved around.

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By Gabrielle Fagan your home, especiallyyour as the home, seasons especially as the waterproof high definition touch-screen TV, £999, BATHROOMS ARE PROBABLY THE change, butLagoon bear infreestanding mind change, thatbut some bear in mind th bath, £1,799; MyPlan 600 WC unit, £199; MyPlan slimline 600 basin unit, HARDEST-WORKING AREA IN A HOUSE varieties will sulk if you varieties keep moving will sulk if you kee £199; MyPlan slimline 600 polymarble basin £99 and Rimini chrome THESE DAYS AS WE DEMAND MORE OF them around too much. them After around a while too much. Af radiator, £299, Bathstore.

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To save money, inhabit. with To savetiles," money, secret is with to choose thesecret rightisplant to choose for theSome rightplants plant for need a specific Some plants method need a specific "The bathroom is an ideal space try out new smaller plants and learn smaller to propagate plantstoand learn to propagate the conditions you have, the conditions and accept you have, and accept of watering.

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Saintpaulia For example, S colours in a small area which wouldn't necessarily them. them. certain beauties are thatnot certain meant beauties to are not meant to likes (African work in athe larger living space. needs Dove greyindividual isthat a chic but (African Violet) tepid water Violet) likes tepid Respect plant’s individual Respect the plant’s needs take a light-changing, moodlast. One example of last. this One is Poinsetexample of and thishaving is Poinsetsafe choice for its walls and gives neutral base which the bottom andofhaving the potthe bottom of t withplant. a colour Each plant has own Each needs plant forahas its own needs for enhancing the Christmas plant. tia, Ittheisshower Christmas sold with It is soldrather with thanimmersed, can be enlivened by other colour choices.tia, Salmon immersed, traditionalrather than tradi range including green for light, water, air humidity light,and water, room air humidity and room be enjoyed the intention while itto be enjoyed while it pink and yellow are one of my favourite the intention to balance, watering watering However, from if the top. How blue for relaxation and from the top. temperature soas it pays temperature to keep a book so ithave payslasts, keep book afterwards. and adiscarded lasts, and discarded afterwards. combinations they're elegant but atowarm, red for energy.

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If you like flowering If plants, you like try flowering plants, try Chromotherapy, from £3,500,

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will thank you with beautiful will thank velvety you with beautifu with thethe plant’s name with asnever they thebeen are plant’s not name as they are Taking waters has more pleasurable -notare orchids.

They noworchids. available They inInternational. are nowflowers available in times aflowers from Bathrooms a few year. a few times a year. the easiest to memorize. the Alternaeasiest to memorize.

Alternaso check out a bathroom solution for youreasy-to-grow home. varieties,easy-to-grow and with carevarieties, and with care-

36 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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Hooperhomescarpentry@outlook.com Issue 35 • February / March 2018

39

In Theen Gard

Cut The Confusion Over Clematis I love the huge flowers of hybrid clematis as they climb up trellis and fencing, or weave their way through less interesting shrubs, wrap themselves around tree trunks and scramble over old walls to create a burst of colour, often in shadier places.

They make perfect companions entwined with deliciously scented climbing roses covering arches and pagodas in the romantic garden, or simply climbing up unsightly walls or fences to act as a colourful screen.

In fact, different types of clematis can provide you with flowers for most of the year.

Yet, clematis are the climbers which cause the most confusion when it comes to pruning because there are three groups of them, and if you prune the wrong type at the wrong time you'll ruin your chances for blooms this year.

Group 1 clematis, which flower in spring, bloom on stems which grew the previous year and are generally pruned after flowering. They are often rampant growers with large numbers of relatively small flowers - C. macropetala and C. montana are well-known examples, although C. alpina, cirrhosa and amandii also fall into this group.

Prune them straight after flowering by clipping the sideshoots back to a few buds of the main framework. They should not be pruned in the winter, or you'll cut off all the shoots and lose the

new season's flowers.

March is the time to prune summerflowering clematis, the Group 2 types, which bloom on stems produced in the current season. They are pruned in late winter or early spring to remove much of last year's growth. If left unchecked they will produce flowers, but they will tend to be at the end of the plant where you probably won't be able to see them.

Group 2 clematis include many of the large-flowered hybrids, including the most famous pink striped variety 'Nelly Moser', the rich purple 'The President' and other popular types including 'Marie Boisselot' and 'Lasurstern'.

The aim with pruning Group 2 clematis is to retain a framework of old wood, and also to stimulate new shoots to maximise flowering throughout the season.

Unless the plant already has three or four healthy stems growing from the base, all newly planted clematis should be pruned back hard the first spring after planting. Cut back to just above a strong pair of leaf buds about 30cm above soil level. This will encourage multiple stems which can be trained into supports to give a good coverage.

With established plants, remove dead or weak stems before growth begins, check individual stems from the top down until you reach a pair of healthy

40 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

buds, and prune just above them, removing the spindly or damaged growth above. The ones that flower first in early summer, and again in late summer, need a tidy-up rather than a heavy prune.

Those which must be pruned now are those which don't start flowering until June, and keep going until the autumn, as they make vigorous growth and only flower on the very ends of the shoots.

They can be cut back to a pair of fresh green buds about 30cm in early spring, and then new growth tied into the supports.

Some mid to late summer flowering clematis can be treated as either Group 2 or Group 3, as desired, including 'Comtesse de Bouchaud', 'Gipsy Queen' and 'Hagley Hybrid'.

Group 3 are late summer and autumnflowering clematis including viticella and texensis and some large-flowered types including 'Niobe', 'Perle d'Azure' and 'Ernest Markham'. They flower on both last year's and the current season's growth.

In the first year, prune them back in late winter or early spring to the lowest pair of healthylooking buds you can find, which will be about 30-90cm above the ground. This may mean cutting off green, healthy shoots, but the plant will reshoot from the base and be better for it.

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Issue 35 • February / March 2018

41

In Theen Gard

February & March

Lupin

This wonderful cottage garden plant is among the most popular of all perennials, its large pea-like flowers amassed on large spires which reach around up to 4ft (120cm) in height in a wide variety of colours in early summer.

Lupins blend well into schemes featuring other cottage garden favourites including delphiniums and nepeta, or in mixed borders where the taller varieties can be put at the back and the shorter ones such

Best of The Bunch

as ‘Gallery Series’ used as fillers.

Other good varieties include ‘Band of Nobles’, which is a mixture of colours and ‘My Castle’, a dramatic dark red.

Lupins are easy to grow from seed but do need protecting from slugs when they are emerging. Cut off the dead flower stems complete with stalks when flowering has finished to encourage a second flush of flowers towards the end of the season.

Good Enough to Eat!

Sowing Peas

You don't need a load of fancy propagators and trays in which to sow peas. A piece of plastic guttering will do, provided you drill drainage holes in the bottom and then fill it with a peat-free seed compost. Make a head start in February by sowing the seeds evenly in two rows 2.5-5cm (1-2in) apart and 2.5cm (1in) deep, and water, keeping the containers on a windowsill or in an unheated greenhouse, although heat will speed up germination.

When the seedlings have a few leaves, they can be planted out under a cloche by sliding them out of the guttering and into a prepared shallow trench in the soil. Keep plants well watered in dry weather and weed regularly. After sowing, push pea sticks in along the rows of short-growing varieties, or erect posts with horizontal wiring supporting pea netting for larger types.

Good varieties include 'Feltham First', suitable for the earliest sowings and dwarf in size, needing little support, and 'Hurst Green Shaft', a delicious second early or maincrop variety growing to 75cm (2.5ft) tall and producing heavy crops.

42 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Jobs To Do...

• Place cloches over ground where early sowings are to be made.

• Continue to cut back faded foliage on herbaceous perennials.

• Sow under glass quick growing perennials to flower this year.

• Begin to feed plants in established borders using a controlled-release slow-acting fertiliser and try not to get fertiliser on the new foliage.

• Don't let your pond freeze over completely. Stick a floating ball in it.

• Top-dress year-round tubs and don't let sheltered containers dry out.

• Continue to plant soft fruit bushes and bare-rooted fruit trees if weather permits.

• Prune half-hardy fuchsias being kept under cover when the pink 'eyes' appear.

• Plant out ranunculus and anemones if the ground is not too wet.

• Prune out the old flowering heads from hydrangeas.

3 ways to...

1 2 3

Work with shade

Make the most of leaf colour in shade. Heuchera, ferns, euonymus and hosta will all provide green, yellow and red hues to brighten up a shady area.

Use shade-tolerant climbers such as Clematis montana, Hydrang ea petiolaris and Lonicera japonica to create interest on a north-facing wall or fence.

If you want to grow plants under trees, add plenty of organic matter around the planting area in autumn and sprinkle a balanced fertiliser around the plants in early spring, applying a mulch in late spring and watering thoroughly during dry spells in summer.

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Issue 35 • February / March 2018

43

SEAT Ibiza FR 1.0 TSI

auto Biographies

By Rob Auchterlonie © Wheelwrite.co.uk 2018

Price: £16,015 3 cylinder 12 valve direct injection, 95ps, 175Nm 5 speed manual gearbox Top speed: 113mph, 0-62mph 10.9secs Fuel: Urban 48.7, extra urban 68.9, combined 60.1 CO2: 106g/km

HERE”S a new car from SEAT that looks a lot like a scaled-down Leon – and why not?

It’s big brother has been doing the business for the Spanish manufacturer for a few years now so no one should feel in the slightest way guilty if some of the styling cues that made Leon such a hit were borrowed for the latest Ibiza.

In a world where the Fiesta has been the undoubted king for decades, the Spanish upstart throws down the gauntlet and gives a very strong hint that the family favourite Ford might not have it all its own way for much longer.

There’s a growing groundswell that bemoans the fact many cars these days bear a marked similarity to each other – the end result of manufacturers seeking pretty much the same solutions at the design stage, with a few exceptions.

And this is one that differs, a car that feels much more grown up and a better all round package than the version it replaces. It’s now only available in five door form, but while those extra doors at the back on some superminis look like an afterthought and hence are restrictive for those piling into the

rear, in the Ibiza they just look an essential part of the overall package.

It’s a very tidily styled car (as is Leon) and proves that the Spaniards aren’t just good at sticking spikes in extremely annoyed bovines but can turn their hand to slick car design too.

The handling is as sharp as the stylish bodywork. There’s a lovely light clutch and equally deft five speed gearbox that work in harmony with the power steering – very positive when you need to change direction - and that helps to make manoeuvering in town traffic or zipping along a country road a far less taxing experience than it sometimes can be. Behold a sensibly priced car with sporty credentials that's fun to drive.

This is the fifth generation of Ibiza.

Remember the first ones, with ‘System Porsche’ emblazoned down their flanks?

This one is also a first – the first VW Group car to use the latest MQB AO chassis tech, which you’ll also get on the new VW Polo, Audi A1 and Skoda Fabia in the future.

Its adoption has certainly turned a car that’s been in the Fiesta’s slipstream in the past into one that might even be edging slightly in front in the race to

44 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

be the best. Yes, it’s that good, even with an engine that’s one cylinder short of a full engine bay but which you can’t knock for sheer enthusiasm.

The 1.0 three cylinder in the FR version sampled here has that distinctive gravelly thrum under acceleration, which I’ll concede might eventually become a tad tedious. But what you won’t ever tire of is the crisp handling and lack of vagueness as you turn from lock to lock through a series of tight bends. This is a well engineered car.

It’s available in SE, SE Technology, FR and Xcellence trims and there’s a lot of safety, technology and top spec kit, dependent on model. Three versions of the three pot engine, in 74,94 and 114bhp configurations are available.

It’s much wider, a touch lower and a fraction shorter than before but the added width actually makes it feel like a bigger car.

It makes a good fist of being an economical and user friendly small hatch. Good space for passengers and luggage, built to a decent standard and a car you will instantly feel at home with.

(Payment only on completion and satisfaction)

Issue 35 • February / March 2018

45

Bedfordshire’s Night Sky February & March 2018

Looking Up! Spot Orion and Betelgeuse: Got a clear sky? Look south mid-evening in February or March and you’ll find one of the most iconic constellations in the heavens. Orion, with its belt of three stars embedded within a larger rectangle of four bright stars, is an easy pattern to pick out. Notice how orange in colour the top left star is in the rectangle. This is Betelgeuse – a red supergiant that is on the verge of exploding as a supernova.

ISS: The first two weeks in February this year is a great time to catch the International Space Station. Each evening between 6pm and 7:30pm look for a bright light moving steadily across the sky on a roughly west-toeast trajectory. It won’t flash or make a noise, and will take roughly 5 to 10 minutes to cross from one side of the sky to the other.

Venus & Mercury in March: Mid-March sees Venus and Mercury gather together low over the western horizon. To view this elusive pairing choose a stargazing spot with good elevation and a clear horizon to your west. Dunstable Downs is ideal. About 30-40 minutes after sunset you’ll notice a bright ‘star’ shining in the dusk light. This will be Venus. As the sky darkens you might pick up a second ‘star’ above or to the right of Venus. It’ll shine with less intensity and take on an orange or pink hue. This is Mercury.

19th March 2018 Looking West at 7:15pm

By Seb Jay Image Credit: Seb Jay

Dark Sky Telescope Hire www.darkskytelescopehire.co.uk

46 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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Issue 35 • February / March 2018

47

DISCOVER Ashridge

Visitors Centre, Moneybury Hill, Berkhamstead, Hertfordshire. HP4 1LT

Cadbury Egg Hunt Fri 30th March - Mon 2nd April 10:00 - 16:00, £5 Per Child Hop like a bunny along our Easter trail and receive a chocolate egg as a prize.

The Cadbury bunny has fallen down the rabbit hole and been transported back in time. Help him learn about animals that have lived at Ashridge throughout the ages. Can you answer all the questions to claim your chocolate reward?

Look for the trail starting point at the gazebo on Monument Green (across from the visitor centre).

Due to possible weather conditions at this time of year the trail may be very muddy in places and not suitable for buggies. Please call ahead to check. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Dogs on leads are welcome.

Easter Crafts Mon 9th - Fri 13th April, 10:00 - 16:00, £2 Per Child Feb Half Term Trail Mon 12th - Fri 16th Feb, 10:00 - 15:00, £3 Per Child Come and take part in the exciting family half term activities we have on.

Join trail to learn more about the history of Ashridge and the people who have lived here though the ages. This is a childrens’ activity. Due to wet conditions, the trail may be muddy in places and therefore not suitable for pushchairs.

All children must be supervised by an adult. Dogs on leads are welcome.

EXHIBITION OPENING: Voices Sat 3rd March, 11:00 - 17:00, FREE Come along to the visitor centre for the opening of our new exhibition. ‘Voices’ celebrates the centenary of women’s suffrage in 1918 by showcasing some of Ashridge’s most influential women. The exhibition runs to February 2019.

48 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Come along and make your own Easter craft before enjoying a walk in the Ashridge woods.

All the materials and instructions are supplied, just bring your artistic flair! Crafts take place in the visitor centre. All children must be supervised by an adult. Dogs on leads are welcome.

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Issue 35 • February / March 2018

49

COLLEGE LAKE

Upper Icknield Way, Tring. HP23 5QG Tel: 01442 826774

www.bbowt.org.uk/whats-on

Nature Tots - College Lake

Please visit the website for more information and

Tue 20th February - 10am - 11.30am & 1pm - 2.30pm Tue 20th March - 10:00am - 11:30am Thurs 22nd March - 10:00am - 11:30am & 1pm - 2.30pm

to book your place on walks and activities.

College Lake Guided Walk Sat, 10th February - 10:30am - 12:30pm, £4 Join us for a walk around this wonderful site. You will be introduced to the various habitats of College Lake as well as some of the wildlife using the site. You will also find out about how we mange the site to benefit these plants and animals.

This guided walk involves a slow stroll around the site.

This is around 2 miles on easy terrain and will take approximately 2 hours.

We advise wearing shoes you feel comfortable walking in and that you don't mind getting muddy.

Booking essential. Age 11+

Skulldiggery!

Tue, 13th & 14th February - 10:00am - 1:00pm, £5 Join us at College Lake to find out about all things skulls, mud, and things that live underground! Booking essential Investigate and identify our skull collection, find out what an owl eats for tea, do some digging, and investigate the creatures that live, and have lived, on our nature reserve!

Hands-on discovery, crafts, quizzes, and activities- most suitable for children age 5-12 but great for the whole family to enjoy together. Book your tickets online, and come along at any time between 10-1 to enjoy the event.

Adults free but encouraged to get stuck in!

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Join us at College Lake with your pre-school little ones for seasonal nature discovery, games, craft, fun and exploration. Booking essential. Nature Tots is suitable for pre-school children. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Remember to dress for the outdoors!

Each session has a changing seasonal nature theme such as minibeasts, autumn colours, or using our senses.

We get together for a story in the Visitor Centre Hide, enjoy group activities as we move through the woods, garden and meadow, then take a break for a well-earned snack and drink when we get to the Barn.

After that we provide nature-themed free-play activities, which you can enjoy at whichever level is suitable for your little ones. Dip in and out, try what you like, and do ask if you’d like a bit more time to finish after the session is done. £5 donation a session per participating child Children must be accompanied by an adult Nature Tots is suitable for pre-school children Please dress for the outdoors- activities run whatever the weather!

Signs of Spring at College Lake Sun 25th March 10:30am - 12:30pm, £4 Join us on a guided walk around the reserve to look for signs of spring returning. Buds will be starting to burst, flowers will be starting to bloom and birds will be starting to sing. We love this time of year at College Lake and would love to share it with you.

This guided walk involves a slow stroll around the site.

This is around 2 miles on easy terrain and will take approximately 2 hours.

We advise wearing shoes you feel comfortable walking in and that you don't mind getting muddy.

Booking essential. Age 11+

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Issue 35 • February / March 2018

51

What’s On Akeman Street Tring Hertfordshire HP23 6AP

Toddler Time At Tring Term Time Weekdays, 14.30 - 17.00 Borrow something special and help your toddler explore and play around the Museum.

Enjoy 5 different activities which rotate from day to day: Daring Explorers, Ocean Adventure, Find your Friends, Butterfly Quest and Animal Safari. Pick up your resources at admissions and enjoy them in the galleries. Suitable for ages 3 - 5.

Drop-in, no need to book.

The Million-Pound Museum 6th Feb 2018, 19.00 - 20.00, £4.50 Ever wondered how much founder Walter Rothschild spent on his zoological collection and Museum? Advance booking required, for information and tickets call 020 7942 6163

Welly Wednesday at Tring 7th & 21st February, 10.30 - 11.15, £2 per child Get hands-on in nature with your little ones.

Join this 45-minute led activity especially designed for 3-5 year olds. Explore an animals found across the UK through play, storytelling and creating an outdoorsy craft to take home. Drop in to this activity on the day. There is no need to book.

Walter’s Birthday Bash 9th Feb 2018, 17.00 - 20.00, Free Celebrate Walter Rothschild’s 150th birthday with party games and fun for all the family.

Discover the story of this incredible man as the galleries transform to reflect his life.Play Victorian children’s games and explore the new exhibition, What’s in the Woods? Follow in Walter’s footsteps to become a zoologist by crafting your own beetle and follow a trail of weird and wonderful animal names.

Discover his menagerie of living animals by handling real specimens and spotting them in the galleries. Chat with local experts to find out about the Rothschild family legacy in the local area Suitable for all ages. Drop in, there is no need to book.

Hunter Games 12th Feb 2018, 11.00-12.00 & 14.00-15.00 Free event, suggested donation £2 Go on the hunt around Tring Park to fill up predators’ stomachs.

Join us for a walk and fun game in the park to discover who eats who. Can you match the predator to their prey?

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For Infomation Tel: 020 7942 6171

Explore exhibitions and events at www.nhm.ac.uk/tring.

This activity includes walking around the park and is most suitable for ages 5+. Please bring weather-appropriate clothing and footwear.

The meeting point is the quad at the Museum. Advance booking is required. For information and tickets call 020 7942 6163

Explore Woodland Creatures 13th &14th February 2018, £2

30 min workshops running from 10.15 - 15.30 (last workshop begins 15.00) Get hands-on with woodland animals and make a woodland craft to take home.

We’ll be exploring animals big and small, furry and feathery, nocturnal and diurnal that inhabit your local woodlands. Find out more about these secretive animals and make a piece of the woodland to take home with you.

This activity is a drop-in event suitable for ages 5+. There is no need to book in advance

Woodland Animal Sock Puppets 15th & 16th February 2018, £2

30 min workshops running from 10.15 - 15.30 (last workshop begins 15.00) Craft a furry friend to join you around the Museum and take home.

Discover the animals that live within our woodlands and make your very own woodland animal sock puppet.

This drop-in activity is suitable for ages 5+. There is no need to book in advance.

Behind the Scenes: Voyages of Discovery 22nd February 2018, 11.00 - 12.00, £10 Get a rare look at historical specimens and hear about the great lengths explorers went to for science.

Step behind the scenes to see the world-renowned bird collection including historic specimens linked to voyages of discovery made by Darwin, Wallace and Shackleton.

Get a rare look at historical specimens and hear about the great lengths explorers went to for science.

Discover the different types of scientific collections and how they are prepared, conserved and used by researchers from around the world.

Advance booking and photo ID is required. This event is suitable for adults only.

For information and tickets call 020 7942 6163.

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Tel: 01525 838739 53

Issue 35 • February / March 2018

Clubs & Groups DUNSTABLE & DISTRICT ART CLUB We meet at Chew’s House 77 High Street South, Dunstable on Monday mornings from 10.00am. Monday afternoons from 2.00pm and Thursday evenings from 7.30pm. We are an informal club who meet to paint together, all abilities are welcomed, the club has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere where we all try to encourage and help each other. We also run social painting days. A club exhibition is held every year where members are encouraged to enter paintings for display.

Contact: Derek 01582 611607 DUNSTABLE MEN IN SHEDS We are a group of slightly older men who meet on Monday, Wednesday and Friday’s between 10am and 1 pm to chat, drink tea and sometimes make useful items for local schools, charities and for ourselves from a range of materials. We have been loaned a Council building on the Meadway allotment’s as our manufacturing hub. Come and visit, all are welcome. We are on Facebook and aim to have a web site shortly.

For more information ring Martin on 01582 668598, or Terry on 01582 604476 WIDOWS & WIDOWERS CLUB We are an active Widows and Widowers club.

Meetings are held locally and new members are always welcome.

If you would like to make new friends and join in our many outings and activities please contact Jenny 01582 672766 or Val 01582 659717 or email Carol at carol.hodges@ntlworld.com

CURTAIN CALL THEATRE GROUP & YOUTH THEATRE Youth theatre open to children aged 5 - 16 Mondays 5pm - 7.30pm Eaton Bray Village Hall. Acting, Singing, Dance, Fun & Games!

Adult group (16+) Mondays 8pm 10pm Eaton Bray Village Hall. New members always welcome wheather on or off stage.

Call Gavyn 01525 220525 www.curtaincalltheatregroup.co.uk WEDNESDAY CLUB at NORTHALL VILLAGE HALL Are you or do you know of an elderly person in the Northall, Dagnall, Edlesborough, Eaton Bray or surrounding villages who might benefit from a social day out once a week? Why not come along to the Wednesday Club from 10.00am to 3.00pm. Our own minibus can pick you up, morning coffee and biscuits, home cooked lunch with pudding, afternoon tea and cakes. Play games and bingo, sale table, entertainment by visitors and outside club visits.

Join in as much or as little as you like, make new friends, very friendly atmosphere. Only £9.00 per week including transport.

Contact Anna on 07854 230243, please leave a message if no answer.

BEDFORDSHIRE GUILD OF WEAVERS, SPINNERS & DYERS. A friendly group of textile crafts people who meet in Flitwick Village Hall twice a month.

First Tuesday evening of each month 7.30 - 9-30 and Third Saturday, all day, 10.30 to 4.30.

We welcome visitors interested in seeing what we do, so please pay a visit to our website www.bedsguildwsd.blogspot.co.uk BEECROFT CRAFT & CHAT Beecroft Community Centre Westfield Road, Dunstable We meet on the 1st Wednesday of

54 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

every month between 10.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m on a “drop in/drop out” basis.

We meet to have a cuppa, chat and craft together in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

ALL CRAFTS WELCOME The first session is FREE Annual subscription £5.00 Session Fee: £3.00 Tel: Dorothy on 01582 606812 DUNSTABLE WI Dunstable WI meet two evenings a month on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at Watling Lower School Bullpond Lane at 7.00pm. We are friendly group and like to enjoy ourselves.

We have a wide range of speakers with different talents crafts, and also Quizz nights to test our brains. We welcome new members so join us and make new friends. 8th Febuary Highwayman and Women - Paul Healey 22nd Febuary: Members evening 8th March: Hat Parade - competion design a hat 22nd March: Birthday party 12th April: Tales of victorian ladies For more information telephone Barbara Fisher 01582 665252 NATIONAL TRUST All meetings are held at Salvation Army Centre, Dunstable. Guests are welcome at £3.00 As well as outing we also run a holiday once per year. If you would like to join the group, please contact, Lynder Power 01582 696193 or Janr Lingham 01582 606838 DUNSTABLE PROBUS CLUB Dunstable PROBUS Club meets on the second Monday of the month and membership is open to retired or semi-retired professional and business men. The Club’s main object is the promotion of good fellowship. Members enjoy a variety of social activities and organized visits throughout the year and at their regular monthly meetings

they are entertained by after-lunch speakers. If you are interested in joining the Club, please contact the Secretary, Philip Savage, on 01582 662462.

SAPHIRE SOCIAL CLUB We meet every Thursday at The Orange Tree Stevenage Rd Hitchin from 8.30pm. A small and friendly group for single people aged 50+. We offer a variety of social events during the month and the opportunity to make new friends. Potential new members are warmly welcome to come along and meet us with no joining fee for 2 months. For further info call/text Ian 07900 890583 or Joyce 07952 678021 www.sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk

ond Thursday, Toddler group every Wednesday term time only, Saturday coffee morning second Saturday every month, Carers drop in 1st Thursday every month. Neighbourhood chaplains befriending and support in the local community. Sunday morning services at 10.30am. Please contact 01582 602980 langdalechurch@talktalk.net SOCIAL GROUP We are a small group of people age 45+. If you like to have fun and enjoy yourself then please get in touch. No Membership required, just ring Tina for more information between 10am & 8pm week days 01582 619035

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! Tel Pam on 01582 872608 pamrumfitt@btinternet.com

NORTHALL TODDLER GROUP Northall Village Hall, LU6 2EX Join new mums, dads, grandparents and carers.Every Tuesday 9:30 – 11:30am (including school holidays) For children aged 0-5 years.

Tea, coffee, juices and healthy snack.

Come join in the fun, games and learning (inside and out) £2.50 during term time (per family) £1 per child during school holidays (Adults free & older children welcome) Tel. Sarah Cox on 07765 158182

NEW MOON MORRIS We are a mixed side dancing traditional dances from all over England – with our own twist – as well as choreographing new dances. We are particularly looking for new dancers.

We meet most Tuesday evenings 8:15 – 10:15 at Ivinghoe Town Hall, LU7 9EW (we advise that you check – in case we are ‘dancing out’).

Contact: squire.newmoon@gmail.com.

Find out more at: www.newmoonmorris.blogspot.co.uk

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.

Contact Eila: 07964291892

LANGDALE CHURCH Langdale church communities: Art group every week, Friends and Neighbours open to everyone speaker and refreshments every sec-

ARTS & CRAFTS Art & Craft for adults with learning difficulties every Wednesday 10.30am - 12.30pm & every Sat 11am - 1pm at Arttrend, rear of 440 Dunstable Road.Please see the web-

site www.arttrend.co.uk for all the details or phone 07794987796 BREATHEASY Do you suffer from a lung condition?

Then why not come and join our local Support group - breatheasy - Part of the British lung foundation. We meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month at peter newton pavilion (Behind Tesco) 2 - 4pm carers also welcome As well as supporting each other we have a variety of speakers and also arrange day trips out.

New members most welcome Tel: Amanda Fletcher 01582 404479 DUNSTABLE BAPTIST CHURCH St Mary’s Gate (Middle of Ashton Square Car Park) Our Friends and Neighbours meetings are open to everyone on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month.

For more information contact David tel: 01582 872106

DANESBOROUGH CHORUS The Danesborough Chorus meets on Wednesdays 7.45 9.50 pm in Aspley Guise Village Hall. The new season started Wednesday 6th September, and we will be rehearsing Brahms’ German Requiem . If you’re interested, why not bring your vocal chords along for a few sessions? Please contact membership secretary Carol Yirrell on 01296 680328, or via our website at www.danesborough. org.uk. She’ll invite you to come along to a few rehearsals and see how you find it.

Issue 35 • February / March 2018

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Clubs & Groups DUNSTABLE DAOS Tuesdays and Fridays, 7:45pm - 10:00pm We are Dunstable's premier Musical Theatre group. We perform out major shows, once a year, at The Grove Theatre in Dunstable along with concerts, small shows and so on. Find our Facebook Group or Facebook page for more details.

Email: daosuk@gmail.com STUDHAM W.I. Studham WI meet on the first Thursday of every month, 7.45pm at Studham Village Hall.

An open and friendly group of around 30+ ladies, we enjoy laughing and socialising, be it at our meetings, our monthly lunch outings, darts matches, quiz evenings, or at group and county events. If you’re interested in joining us, then come and try the WI! We’re always happy to welcome visitors to the majority our meetings. Visit: www. studhamwi.wordpress.com for more information, or find us on facebook – just search for “studhamwi”.

DUNSTABLE SALVATION ARMY FRIENDS TOGETHER (Over 60s ) We meet every Weds at Bull Pond Lane,Dunstable,LU6 3AH We have a Cup of Tea or Coffee at 1.00pm then the the meeting starts at 1.30pm - 2.30pm Weekly Subscription £2 The Programme consists of Various Speakers.Quizzies, Sing-ALongs, Musicial Artists. Lunch Club for Members on the first Weds of the month @£3 Also lots of good fun and Christian Fellowship. For more information tel: Maureen Dunn - 01582 759509

BEDFORDSHIRE NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY www.bnhs.org.uk Tuesday 20th February

MAULDEN Village Hall, MK45 2DP 8pm Talk ‘Wildlife Crime - How You Can Make A Difference’ by a Bob Hook of Birders Against Wildlife Crime. This is a group of volunteers who believe that we can all do something to help combat wildlife crime, by being “eyes in the field”. He will explain their “3Rs” and other campaigns (including Hen Harrier Day) and will want to know what concerns you have about the state of our wildlife today.

Sunday 11th March,

TRING 10:30am (F) Walk around College Lake, a BBOWT reserve with chalk grassland, woodland, scrub and hedgerows as well as marsh and open water. Introductory talk by a ranger followed by a self-guided walk. Entrance and parking on the B488 between the Pitstone roundabout and the canal bridge at Bulbourne. HP23 5QG. Leader: Sheila Brooke.

Wednesday 28th March

TOTTERNHOE 10:30am Walk on Totternhoe Knolls to find wintergreen Man Orchids and migrating birds. We will also look at the management of the site and the new grazing regime.

Park in the NT Car Park, LU6 1QU. Leader: Richard Knock.

DUNSTABLE GARDEN CLUB

Our evening talks for 2018 start on Monday 12th February ‘Cacti – a Potpourri’ Christian Taylor, a retired horticultural lecturer, talks about his lifelong interest in gardening and his wonderful collection of cacti.

56 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Monday 12th March Victoria Diggle tells us about the history and aims of the charity both locally and nationally.

Meetings are held in the Salvation Army Hall, Dunstable and commence at 7.30 pm. Visitors welcome £2 and Annual subscription £10.

Further information from Mary Chapman 01582 603710

TOTTERNHOE PLAYERS We are a friendly, supportive group for keen Am. Drammers aged 16 - 80+ and always welcome new members. We usually put on a panto, a murder mystery and either a comedy or variety show each year. You could be involved in one, two or all of these. Backstage help and potential actors equally welcome. We aim to make the most of the talents you can bring to our group. If your interests are in one of the back-stage disciplines, eg. lighting, sound, set construction, costume, admin, then you will be particularly welcome! We meet Wednesdays and most Fridays, 8pm - 10pm in Totternhoe to rehearse. Come along and meet us! Please call Els on 01582 758108 or Jo on 01582 603287 Check out our Facebook page: Totternhoe Players Amateur Dramatic Society Community or website: www.totternhoeplayers.org.uk To get advance information about forthcoming productions just join our mailing list: membership@totternhoeplayers.org.uk DUNSTABLE LADIES CHOIR Houghton Regis Baptist Church, Houghton Regis, LU5 5RG We’re a friendly local choir, always looking for new voices

to join us - no audition required!

We sing a bit of everything, from traditional choral pieces to songs from top musicals, with a few pop classics thrown in for good measure. Why not come along to a rehearsal, and see how you get on? Every Tuesday, 7.30pm to 9.30pm For more details, contact Pat Jackson on 01582 520302 or find us on Facebook ACTIVITIES AT STUDHAM VILLAGE HALL Monday Evening - Jive.

Tuesday

Morning - Mums and Tots, Afternoon - Scrabble Club, Evening - Salsa.

Wednesday Evenings – Bingo.

Thursday

Morning - U3A Carpet Bowls, Evening - Carpet Bowls Club.

1st Thursday evening in month – Women’s Institute (WI).

Main Hall and a Meeting room available for hire. Modern kitchen. Contact Des Salmon T: 01582 872082.

E: desstudham@btconnect.com LUTON AND DISTRICT PHILATELIC SOCIETY If you collect postage stamps, postcards or postal history why not come along and meet fellow collectors? We usually meet on the first Friday of the month* at Bushmead Primary School, Luton, LU2 7EU from 7.00pm to 10.00pm. Your first visit is free! New members are always welcome.(*Dates may change if the school is closed).

Call Fin on 01582 453244 or email finodon@hotmail.com for a programme of events or more information.

INCREDIBLE EDIBLE DUNSTABLE

Beacon for the Roots and Branches Project funded by the National Lottery Who we are:

We are a group of friends and neighbours that have cultivated a piece of land owned by Central Bedfordshire Highways on the junction of Duncombe Drive and Katherine Drive Dunstable LU5 4NP.

Why we are here:

To demonstrate how small actions can make a difference. By being incredible and growing food on public land for free builds community cohesion. If you need help with setting up your own incredible edible growing group we are here to help.

What we do:

Every month we host a work session called Come n grow which is on the third Saturday from 1-3pm. We meet like-minded people, make new friends, share skills, grow vegetables, tidy and maintain the structures in the garden. Also when the growing season starts the watering rota kicks in. Each day two volunteers buddy up and water a quarter of the garden plus any new plants and seedlings. We also have a tank filling rota for when the water in the garden runs dry. All training is provided.

Who comes to our Come n grows

Anyone! Everyone is welcome. Local residents, people from further afield, youth groups, schools and home ed groups. The more the merrier.

Our Come n grow dates are as follows: 17th February 17th March 21st April 19th May 16th June 21st July 18th August 15th September 20th October 17th November 15th December For more information please call Sahira on 07905 116623 Email: incredibleedible395@gmail.com

Issue 35 • February / March 2018

57

Out & About CHILTERN GATEWAY Dunstable Road, LU6 2GY Tel: 01582 500 920

Stargazing Valentine’s Night 14th February 7pm - 9pm £18

Planetarium ticket, Space talk, astronomers, meteorite dealer and Pre drink & stargazing warmers.

A romantic journey into the stars with the experts from Dark Sky Wales, enjoy this Valentine’s with a closer look at Venus and Mars in the beautiful nights sky above Whipsnade Estate

Cadburys Easter Egg Trail Fri 30th March - Mon 2nd April £2.50 Per Child

Hop like a bunny along the Easter trail and receive a chocolate reward as a prize.

The Cadbury bunny has left a trail on Dunstable Downs! Can you follow the clues and discover the wildlife of Whipsnade Estate and Dunstable Downs? Get to the end and claim your chocolate reward

Saturday 17 February | 10am – 4pm

| £75

Introduction to small woodland management

An outdoor course designed for beginners to learn the basics of small woodland management and the ecology of biodiversity and heritage in the landscape.

Participants will learn a number of skills to build confidence in learning about the basics of woodland management.

The course will focus on practical outdoor experience in Maulden Wood and include coppicing, tree thinning and other principles of woodland management.

 Full day course with Colin Carpenter, a professional horticultural and ecological consultant - £70 per person, 18+ only  Suitable outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear required as well as strong work gloves and packed lunch  Book your place at: www.greensandtrust.org/Event/int roduction-to-small-woodlandmanagement

Easter Activities!

There will be lots more activities to join in with over the Easter holidays including Kite Flying and Easter Crafts!

Start your outdoor adventure and find out more by visiting our website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Thursday 15 February 11.30am – £4

Greensand Trust Talk: Walks Around Ampthill Park

Blunham Giant Book Sale Saturday 24th February 10:00 to 3:00pm Come to our Browse and Buy Second Hand Giant Book Sale at Blunham Parish Church.

(St Edmunds or St James, Park Lane Beds MK44 3NQ.) Selection of second hand/nearly new books, Homemade cakes, teas and coffees, homemade soup and a raffle. All proceeds to Blunham Church Fabric Fund

58 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Discover three walks around this nationally important historic site, once visited by Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, and later landscaped by Capability Brown with our highly knowledgeable volunteer Kelvin Horton.

Find out about the new species of bats recently found in the park and which route to take to see them.

 Tickets £4 per person with tea & coffee provided - all proceeds go towards the environmental conservation work of The Greensand Trust. Parking charge of £1 applies.  Book here: www.greensandtrust.org/Event/wa lks-around-ampthill-park  The venue is The Working Woodlands Centre, Maulden Wood

Easter Weekend 14 - 17 April 10am – 3pm

Old Linslade Rd, Heath and Reach, Linslade Road LU7 0EB. Tel: 01525 234260 www.greensandtrust.org/rushmere-country-park

Tree Tops Talk: An Introduction to Herons Tuesday 6th Feb 11.30am

Our 2018 season of Tree Tops Talks kicks off with a subject very close to our hearts – an introduction to herons. Our highly knowledgeable volunteer Judith will take a look at the heron family with a little Hunt heron history, their breeding, biology and Easter Bunny eating habits closer look at the herons of Complete the trail and win and ana egg!

Rushmere, as we await their imminent return here Come and find eight wooden rabbits hidden  Tickets £3.50 per child in the park, answer the questions and win an to To avoid disappointment book in (inc advance at to spend in the café) nest.

Tickets £4 £2 Easter egg. www.eventbrite.co.uk (search Easter Bunny Pick up your question sheet from the Herons’ Hatch, return it there with your answers to receive your chocolate egg reward.

An evening of Rat Pack classics with Ryan Beange

Hunt)  Or you can just turn up on the day of your choice at the Herons’ Hatch but numbers are limited

Friday 23rd Feb from 6pm

Making his first appearance at the Tree Tops Café, we welcome Ryan Beange who will perform songs from the Rat Pack era with classic big band hits from Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr, Dean Martin, Michael Buble and more. Food available from 6pm prior to performance starting at 7.30pm Tickets £15 per head (18+ only) and include a drink (wine or orange juice) and parking.

Natasha Seale – Live Jazz, Soul and Blues Friday 23rd March from 6pm

A firm favourite at the Tree Tops Café following three sell-out concerts Natasha bringstogether an all-star rhythm section from the UK jazz scene to present a mixture of contemporary classics and her own original songs. Food available from 6pm prior to performance starting at 7.30pm Tickets £15 per head (18+ only) and include a drink (wine or orange juice) and parking.

Issue 32 • August / September 2017 59

Out & About

Totternhoe Players Totternhoe Players Present Totternhoe Players Present Beauty and the Beast Present

by Ben Crocker Beauty Beast Beauty andandthethe Beast by kind permission of Ben Crocker Pantomimes

Donna's Dance School Ben Crocker Pantomimes Donna's DanceSchool School and M&M Promotions Donna's Dance and Promotions and at 7.30pm M&MM&MPromotions February 2018 & Saturday 3rd February at 2pm and 7.30pm

on with with

nd

Ben Crocker

by BenbyCrocker

by kind permission of in by association with kind permission of Ben Crocker Pantomimes

at Totternhoe Lower School, Totternhoe & Saturday 3rd February at 2pm and 7.30pm aturday 3rd February at 2pm and 7.30pm wer School, Totternhoe dults £7, Concessions r School, Totternhoe £5 kets £20 (2 adults and 2 concessions) 01582 603287 for tickets. Please note that tickets must be ordered and ncessions) advance. essions) ease note that tickets must be ordered and se note that tickets must be ordered and

Friday 2nd February 7.30pm &

Saturday 3rd Februdary 2pm & 7.30pm

in association with Donna's Dance School At Totternhoe Lower School, Totternhoe and M&M Promotions in association with Donna's Dance School Tickets: Concessions £5February at 2pm and 7.30pm Friday 2Adults February £7, 2018 at 7.30pm & Saturday 3rd at Totternhoe Lower School, Totternhoe and M&M Promotions Family tickets £20 (2 adults and 2 concessions) nd

Tickets: Adults £7, Concessions £5

Friday 2 February 2018 atand 7.30pm & Saturdayfor 3rd February at 2pm and 7.30pm Family tickets £2001582 (2 adults 2 concessions) Box office 603287 tickets at for Totternhoe Lower note School, Box office 01582 603287 tickets. Please that Totternhoe tickets must be ordered and nd

paid for note in advance.

Please that tickets purchased in association within advance.

Donna's Dance School Tickets: Adults £7, Concessions £5 Family tickets £20 (2 adults and 2 concessions) Box office 01582 603287 for tickets. Please note that tickets must be ordered and and paid for in advance.

M&M Promotions

Friday 2nd February 2018 at 7.30pm & Saturday 3rd February at 2pm and 7.30pm at Totternhoe Lower School, Totternhoe

Are you planning an event in 2018?

Tickets: Adults £7, Concessions £5 Family tickets £20 (2 adults and 2 concessions) Box office 01582 603287 for tickets. Please note that tickets must be ordered and paid for in advance.

Do you need to spread the word?

We’d love to hear from you...

If you would like to include your event, club or group in our What’s On pages get in touch, it’s free!* Contact Shelly: Tel: 01525 222379 or 07852 453043.

Email: info@thevinemagazine.co.uk You can also send us a message and share events/news to our Facebook page, (search The Vine Magazine), or upload your events on our website, it’s easy and FREE!

www.thevinedirectory.co.uk *Free to charities and non profit organisations.

60 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

ary 6pm 1 Febru 1 y a d n Su

W NE 018 R2 FO

TAKE ON THE NEW ULTIMATE CHALLENGE!

at Keech Hospice Care, Luto n

FIREWALK

Sunday 11 February 3pm at Keech Hospice Care, Luton

lk over Will you wa for us? entry HOT COAL(AS ge 18+) £25 Sign up at: www.keech.org.uk/firewalk or call: 01582 707940 Registered Charity No. 1035089

£5 entr y (Age 6+ )

Sign up at: www.keech.org.uk/legowalk or call: 01582 707940

Registered No.1035089 1035089 RegisteredCharity Charity No.

Issue 35 • February / March 2018

61

Caring for your pet

Caring for your pet

In association with PDSA Petsurance – selected by our vets, loved by pets.

In association with PDSA Petsurance – selected by our vets,www.pdsa.org.uk/petinsurance loved by pets.

0800 980 6000 www.pdsa.org.uk/petinsurance 0800 980 6000

News Mabel’s Appledown Rescue h e Ve tK A andTRehoming

Pets

Answers BBQ

BBQ

Step On It Safety Summer SafetySummer Summer

Safety

If the weather behaves itself, many will be MUSTY If the weather behaves itself, many will be stocking up on burgers and heading for stocking up on burgers and heading for the barbeque. But vet charity PDSA DUSTY the barbeque. But vet charity PDSA warns pet owners should take extra warns pet owners should take extra precautions to ensure their pets DUSTS precautions to ensure their pets stay safe while cooking stay safe while cooking DUCTS al fresco. care pet more For al fresco.

from Appledown

sk

Harling Road, Eaton Bray, Beds LU6 1QY

Hello again! ! dog agtheainresident Hello I’m Mabel

I need a home!

I’m Mabel the resident dog at Appledown .

am Mabel the resident dog at Appledown atI Appledown.

Rescue and Rehoming Kennels in Eaton Bray.

This is Chipolata, she is a 4-5 years. She is bigger th Russell, but we can’t deci crossed with! Chipolata is needs a home where she and attention. She could l a cat. We think she may h past but she loves a cudd This is Tor, a lurchertoaged 3 year opportunity curl up in fr house-trained, withcannot peoplelive a familygood life! She dogs. He needs owners who will be carry on with his training.

This affe If you feel you could offer dog wouldother lovedogs, to bea part of and a fam loving s would notat be suitable any for day a hom the kennels be children younger than Our staff areteenagers. happy to offe

Beautiful Tutti Frutti is a lurcher who was born in 2012. Very sadly she is available due to the death of Appledown Rescue’s Dog of the Month her much loved owner. We would love to see this extremely DUCKS PDSA vet, Vicki Larkham-Jones, says; tips visit Don’t be a ‘fuel... lighter fluid PDSA vet, Vicki Larkham-Jones, says; “Every year PDSA vets see pets with injuries / Don’t be a ‘fuel... lighter fluid .pdsa. can be dangerous.

So keep it well out of and reach. sweet-natured girl happily settled once “Every year PDSA vets see www pets with injuriesorg.uk affectionate directly associated withitSUCKS barbecues. are be dangerous.

So keep well out ofPets reach. directly associated with barbecues. pethe Pets are alth can brought in suffering from burns, having Flamin’ hot... playing around agood with other dogs (not cats) and housebrought in suffering from burns, having again.

She is swallowed objects such as corn on the cob Flamin’ hot... playing around a barbecue can lead to severe burns, so pets swallowed objects such as corn on the cob cores,can andlead heattostroke inburns, the hotsoweather.” barbecue severe pets should be kept welltrained. away from flames, cores, and heat stroke in the hot weather.”

Sheburning will need a secure garden and on-lead exercise.

PDSA is advising owners take aburning few simple should be kept well away fromtoflames, embers and hot ash. Always make sure that the PDSA is advising owners to take a few simple precautions this year to safeguard their pets: embers and hot ash.

Always make sure that the BBQ is cooled down quickly after use. live in Leighton Buzzard. precautions this year to safeguard their pets: She cannot BBQ is cooled down quickly after use.

Skip the scraps... note that we have Slap on the sun can cream...

Skip the scraps...

If you offer Tutti or any of our otherIfdogs aPlease loving you feel you couldand offer Tor, or an eatingon barbecue can cream... upset your pet’s Slap thescraps sun pets can suffer from sunburn and heatstroke dogs to families with child eating barbecue scraps can upset your pet’s unfamiliar orup fattyon IfAcross: the weather behaves itself, many willsunburn be stocking other dogs, a loving and secur petsstomach. can sufferUndercooked, from and heatstroke just like humans, so if This you’re enjoying the sun handsome German Shepherd secure home, please drop in at the kennels or call us any stomach. Undercooked, unfamiliar or fatty ask for details. food can cause vomiting and diarrhoea. justbarbeque. like humans, so But if you’re the sun please call in at the kennels a urgers and heading for the vetenjoying charity PDSA ensure your four-legged friends have access in care because food can cause vomiting and diarrhoea.

Reno finds himself ensure four-legged friends have access 1 Deficiency 7 Aroma 8 your Applaud 10anyTheology 11toFlop shade and plenty of fresh water. Pet sun a.m.

4 p.m.

Ouritsta day between 10 a.m. andyou 4 p.m.

Please note that there are warns pet owners should totake extra precautions tosun ensure Could sponsor a kennel tobetween help us10 care forand a dog while is Bin make sure water. leftover food sadly shade andit... plenty of fresh Pet creams should be usedhis on owner your pet’s bodypassed that away. He has Bin it...their make sure any leftover food happy to offer advice and informa and should rubbish securely and pet’s safelybody thrown creams used on your that21 Skilled home?

Please contact us for details. a sweet and has clearly pets safe while cooking albeisfresco.

Depose 15 Virtue 17 Over 18 Compress have no hair or white fur areas –temperament your vet canrehoming restrictions on dogs to families with children unand rubbish is13 securely andstay safely thrown away in a lidded dustbin well away havemuch-loved, restrictions on rehoming dogs to families with children under 7 years of age, so please have no hair or white fur areas – your vet can advise you about this. been he now needs away in a lidded dustbin well away from pets.

A common barbecue-related advise you about this.

PDSA vet, Vicki Larkham-Jones, says . Check ourof website for adoption information canour follow us on Facebook and T Call: 01525 Visit Website: www.appledo deradetails seven years age.

Full details of220383 the. You rehoming process 22 Reign 23 Remoteness from pets.

A common barbecue-related new owner to with.

Reno This is Tor, a bond lurcher aged 3 years.

He is houseproblem seen by PDSA vets is pets Pet owners interested in finding out “Every year PDSA vets pets with problem seen by PDSA vetssee is pets Petthat owners in finding out appledown.kennels@btinternet.com Follow u was born in 2011,with he ispeople good with haveinterested eaten corn on the cob cores. more about summer safety for pets trained, good and E-mail: otherJoin dogs.

He Facebook Appledown Rescue & Rehoming Kennels, Harling Road, Eaton Bray, Beds LU can be found on our website. our group for that have directly eaten corn on the cob cores. injuries associated with barmore about summer safety intestinal for pets (Reg. Charity No. 1116848) Don’t be a ‘fuel...

These can cause a serious people dogswho but would prefer can download free copies of and PDSA needs owners will be happy onappledown.kennels@btinternet.com These can Pets causeare a serious intestinal Call: 01525 220383toorcarry e-mail: canblockage download free of PDSA becues. brought in suffering have to be surgically Responsible Pet more Care leaflets at home. lighter fluid and can becopies dangerous.

So an adults-only photos and information. blockage and Down: have to beswallowed surgically objects with his training.

This affectionate dog would Responsible Pet Care leaflets at removed. from burns, having pdsa.org.uk/leaflets.If you can offer Reno or any of our Website: www.appledownrescue.co.uk keep it well out of reach. removed. pdsa.org.uk/leaflets. love to be part of a family, but would not be (Reg. Charity No. 1116848) such as corn on the cob cores, and Flamin’ hot...isplaying around aChaplet barbeother dogs a loving and secure PDSA on a Espy mission to 5 educate the nation on pet wellbeing and is delighted thatAppledown funding & Rehoming Kennels, 1inaDrone 2 Fearless Change 4delighted suitable for a home withRescue children younger than is on mission to educate the nation on3 pet and that funding heatPDSA stroke the hot weather.” players of People’s Postcode Lottery is helping the charity to continue thisplease vital work. cuewellbeing canfrom lead toissevere burns, so pets home, call in at the kennels from players of People’s Postcode Lottery is helping the charity to continue this vital work. teenagers.

PDSA is advising owners to take a Harling Road, should be kept well away from 14 flames, any day between 10 a.m. and 4Eaton p.m. Bray, Beds. LU6 1QY 6 Fastidious 9 Depressing 12 Disperse Precise few simple precautions this year to burning embers and hot ash. Always or phone us for more details.

Please Call 01525 . safeguard their If you you offer Tor, or any220383 of our make sure that the BBQ is cooled 16 pets: Fondle 19 Evils 20 Also note thatfeel there arecould restrictions on other E-mail dogs, a to loving and secure down quickly after use. appledown.kennels@btinternet.com. rehoming dogs families with chil- home please callunder in at the kennels dren seven years ofany age.day Fullbetween 10 a.m.

Skip the scraps... and 4ofp.m.

Ourwww.appledownrescue.co.uk staffprocess will becan happy to offer addetails the rehoming eating barbecue scraps can upset Slap on the sun cream... vice and information.

We have restrictions on & Instagram! be found on our website, or please Follow us on Facebook, Twitter your pet’s stomach. Undercooked,

I n ee

d a hom e!

Crossword

unfamiliar or fatty food can cause vomiting and diarrhoea.

Bin it...

make sure any leftover food and rubbish is securely and safely thrown away in a lidded dustbin well away from pets. A common barbecue-related problem seen by PDSA vets is pets that have eaten corn on the cob cores.

These can cause a serious intestinal blockage and have to be surgically removed.

pets can suffer from sunburn and heatstroke just like humans, so if you’re enjoying the sun ensure your four-legged friends have access to shade and plenty of fresh water. Pet sun creams should be used on your pet’s body that have no hair or white fur areas – your vet can advise you about this.

Pet owners interested in finding out more about summer safety for pets can download free copies of PDSA Responsible Pet Care leaflets at pdsa.org.uk/leaflets.

contact the kennels. rehoming dogs to families with children under Don’t forget to follow us on Face7 years of age, so please ask for details. Check book & Twitter!for adoption information. our website Appledown Rescue & Rehoming Kennels, Harling Road, Bray, Appledown RescueEaton and Rehoming Kennels, Harling Beds.

1QY Road,LU6 Eaton Bray, Beds LU6 1QY Call 01525 220383No. . 1116848) (Reg. Charity E-mail appledown.kennels@ Call 01525 220383 . btinternet.com.

E-mail appledown.kennels@btinternet.com. www.appledownrescue.co.uk Visit our Website: You can now follow us on www.appledownrescue.co.uk Appledown Facebook and Twitter!Rescue and Rehoming Kennels You can1116848) now follow us on (Reg. Charity No. Harling Road, Facebook andEaton Twitter!Bray, Beds LU6 1QY

I need a home!

This is Chipolata, she is a Jack Russell cross aged 4-5 years. She is bigger than the average Jack Russell, but we can’t decide what she might be crossed with! Chipolata is an active little dog and needs a home where she will get plenty of exercise and attention. She could live with a male dog but no a cat. We think she may have lived outside in the past but she loves a cuddle and will enjoy the opportunity to curl up in front of the fire and be part family life! She cannot live in Luton.

If you feel you could offer Chipolata, or any of our other dogs, a loving and secure home please call in at the kennels any day between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Our staff are happy to offer advice and information.

Please note that we have restrictions on rehoming dogs to families with children under seven, so pleas ask for details.

Could you sponsor a kennel to help us care for a dog while it is waiting to find a new home? Please contact us for details.

Call: 01525 220383 Visit our Website: www.appledownrescue.co.uk E-mail: appledown.kennels@btinternet.com Follow us on Facebook!

(Reg. Charity No. 1116848)

62 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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