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This Month...
Mother’s Day & Valentine’s Day 6 Towm At Athe Crossroads 8 A Travellers Tale 12 Looking Up! 16 What’s Best For You 20 Mabels News 24 In The Garden 28 Auto-biographies 30 Technology 34 Consumer Clinic 38 Puzzles 42 Out & About 44
Copy deadline for our next issue - 15th March
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Make Your Mother’s Day Mother’s Day is celebrated all around the world, usually in March or in May. In the UK, it is a mixture of a Christian tradition, and the celebration of motherhood that began in the USA in the early 20th century. During the 16th century, people in service would return to their home or ‘mother’ church on the fourth Sunday in Lent – Mothering Sunday. Mother’s Day as we know it became a regular event in the 1950s, largely thanks to businesses keen to exploit its commercial potential. From the day you have a baby or adopt a child, your life changes forever. People tell you this when you’re pregnant, but it’s only when it happens that you really understand what they mean. Suddenly there’s someone who depends on you entirely. Every decision you make from now on will be based on their needs or desires.
aunt, sergeant major, personal assistant, taxi driver… And it doesn’t stop when the children leave home. Now approaching 40, I still rely on my mum for advice, friendship, help with childcare, emergency loans and the occasional kick up the backside to get things done. It’s only as you get older, especially if you have children of your own, that you realise how your parents felt as you grew up – why they Being a mother can be the best made you do your homework, of jobs and the worst of jobs. For go to bed, stop fighting with your every heart-warming moment of brother, eat properly, save money pride and loveliness, there’s a and above all, be careful! blazing row or slammed door (but Mother’s Day gives us the perfect hopefully with a hug and a sorry opportunity to say thank you to afterwards). our mums for everything they have Mums have to take on every role in done and still do for us. the family – carer, teacher, agony The founder of Mother’s Day in
Valentine’s Day
February
the US, Anna Jarvis, eventually regretted campaigning to get the day recognised because it became so commercialised. She hated the fact that people would buy a card with a printed message rather than writing a letter. It’s lovely to buy or make a card and give flowers and chocolates. You can also do something special to show you care – maybe take on a job that she hates or treat her to a day of pampering. But this year, why not go beyond the message in the card and write a few personal lines of your own to tell your mother how much you love her. Make sure she knows that she really is the best mum in the world (like mine).
VALENTINES Valentines Day as we understand it now, with the sending of cards, giving of chocolates, flowers and other gifts, originated in the UK during the 18th century when the notion of celebrating romantic love on this day began, having originally been a day of celebrating early Christian saints. During the 19th century, sending a valentines card became so popular that their demand necessitated factories dedicated to producing cards with real lace and ribbons, replacing the hand crafted cards from before.
Popular valentines gifts: Flowers Chocolates Champagne Cuddly toys Heart cup cakes Jewellery 6
It is estimated that in the USA approximately 190 million valentines are sent each year and in the UK over 25 million. And that doesn’t include the ones that are now lovingly emailed! In Japan there is a custom that women only give chocolates to men and indeed it is Valentine’s day when the chocolate companies make half their revenue. Yet it is on Christmas Eve when they celebrate romantic “date night”!
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Dunstable
D
The Town At The Crossroads - Part XI
By Paul Heley
unstable has a number of incidents in its history which set it apart from other towns in many respects and whose stories have been briefly recounted in these articles. But there is one unparalleled occasion which is truly a turning point in English (and, perhaps, European) history and which changed the lives of ordinary folk to an unprecedented degree. And it happened in lowly Dunstable! It concerns the king of whom we seem unable to get enough: Henry 8th. Much loved, much feared, much reviled, Henry seems unique in generating the full gamut of emotion. Courtesy of hours of TV documentary and fantasy, everyone thinks they know all about H8. But they’re wrong: Henry is a most complex character who used his autocratic power to the full. And
mous region of Spain). As was usually the case in those days, they were betrothed when both were little more than children and eventually they were married in 1501 when Arthur was 15 and Catherine 16. But the marriage lasted only four months before Arthur died of tuberculosis leaving Catherine a very young widow. But during the short time they had known each other, Catherine and Henry (five years her junior) had become good friend so there was little opposition on their parts when it was suggested that, at some time, Henry should take over
never been consumated. So, in effect, there had been no marriage; and so she couldn’t be a widow. Clever!! Arthur had died in 1502 leaving Henry heir to the throne and twiddling his thumbs for the next seven years. During this time, Catherine remained in England but was badly treated (due to constant rows between H7 and Ferdinand over her dowry). This made her even keener to marry nice, kind Henry! In 1509, H7 died; Henry became Henry 8th and he and Catherine of Aragon were finally married. For starters, everything was sweetness and light. The people were overjoyed with their new monarch and his attractive queen and looked forward to many years of happy marriage blessed with future Tudor sons. Henry was very popular and was active in sport,
God help anyone who stood in his way. But let’s look at the lengthy background to his problem before considering exactly where Dunstable fits into the story. Henry was the second son of Henry 7th (who defeated Richard 3rd at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485 thus ending the Wars of the Roses). The first son was Arthur - always a sickly child; in total contrast to Henry who was the epitome of robust good health. But Arthur was the elder son and so it was he who was betrothed to Catherine, the daughter of “King” Ferdinand of Aragon (an autono8
from where Arthur had left off. But - and it’s a big “but” - there were strong religious objections to this proposed marriage because the Bible (in Leviticus) says it is unlawful in the eyes of God that a man should marry his brother’s widow; and if so conducted, the marriage will be fruitless. But political expediency at the time insisted that the marriage should take place. Consequently, the Pope was appraoached and, very reluctantly, gave his permission because Catherine had persuaded him that, due to Arthur’s continual frailty, the marriage had
jousting, hunting, music, dancing and scholarship. He seemed genuinely fond of Catherine and she of him. The portents were good. During the first nine years of marriage, there were five pregnancies and, in 1511, the birth of a son (also called Henry). Everyone was delighted; national celebrations were ordered; the dynasty was secure. But disaster struck when baby Henry died whilst only two months old and there then followed a series of still births, miscarriages and infant deaths. However, a healthy girl, Mary, was born in 1516.
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The Town At The Crossroads ~ Part XI ~ (continued) Henry became increasingly paranoid and obsessed with the passage from Leviticus and more and more convinced that his lack of a legitimate heir was God’s punishment for marrying his brother’s widow. Furthermore, it cannot be said that there was anything wrong with Henry’s libido or potency - he had already sired illegitimate children including (ironically) a son - so, clearly, the fault lay with Catherine in his eyes. Consequently, if the Tudor dynasty were to continue, he must have a son - but it didn’t look as though Catherine was capable of fulfilling her side of the bargain. So, she had to go. But how? At this point in the story, it must be admitted that Henry - who always had an eye for the ladies - had fallen for the vivacious charms of one of Catherine’s ladies-in-waiting,* a certain Anne Boleyn. But, unlike her elder sister, Mary, who had already been one of Henry’s mistresses (and subsequently dumped), Anne initially resisted Henry’s advances insisting that if it didn’t lead to marriage, then he could forget it! But her father, Sir Thomas Boleyn, was thoroughly unscrupulous and quite prepared to sell his daughters into white slavery if needs be in order to advance his, or his family’s position at court. Consequently, he encouraged Anne to keep Henry interested by whatever means and, simultaneously, joined in the slanderous gossip and plotting whose eventual intention was Catherine’s removal. In this, he was ably assisted by Cardinal Wolsey - a most un-Godly man - who had been instructed to find some way whereby Henry could get rid of Catherine legally and with the acceptance of the Pope and the wider Church. This subsequently proved to be very difficult and much blood was shed in the attempt. There followed much to-ing and fro-ing; courts were set up to deliberate the matter, deputations were made to the Pope (who refused to concede that the marriage between Henry and Catherine had been initially unlawful), courts in Europe and the universities were assembled in order to express Personal Tutor scholarly opinion. But it was all to no avail as an attempt to change the mind of the Pope, he would not budge. – History – Psychology HenryEnglish wasn’t used to being refused and was absolutely furious (with a few people paying the ultimate price for his displeasure). Wolsey was arrested on All Levels some trumped up charge but, fortunately for him, died before he could be brought to trial where, can have helpbeen you! undoubtedly, he Iwould found guilty. Wolsey was succeeded by Archbishop Cranmer M: 07926 another toady882296 (but so e:barbara.tutoring@gmail.com was everyone else, it was bad for your health to be otherwise). “Barbara Tutoring” And so it rumbled on. Stalemate all round. There was only one solution left, only one way out. 10
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A Travellers Tale A Brief Trip To Poland Part I By Paul Heley
F
or some time I'd had a wish to go to Poland - but for very different reasons from the usual wishes to see a place. I'd seen pictures of Krakow which showed it to be an attractive city with a medieval history and many old buildings; the sort of things I enjoy. But Krakow wasn't the main reason for my wanting to go; there were two others. One appealed to the geologist in me and the other to the fact that, as someone who'd been a boy during WW2, many of the stories and pictures of Nazi atrocities which emerged afterwards both horrified and appalled me. I refer, of course, to the Wieliczka salt mines and Auschwitz/Birkenau death camps respectively. Consequently, I found a tour which was centred on Krakow but which also had trips to the other two places. But because of Auschwitz, Val didn't want to go, so I went alone. Let's take the trip as it happened :Having arrived in Krakow following a 2 hour flight from Gatwick, our party went on a preliminary guided tour of the Old Town concentrating on the very large 200 by 200 metres Market Square with its medieval Cloth Market and the magnificent St Mary's Basilica. St Mary's is a splendid building with two spires, one noticeably higher than the other. At certain times, and from a tiny opening at the top of the higher spire, a bugler might be seen, and heard, playing a few mournful notes which stop very abruptly. This unchanging tune is played every
hour, on the hour, every day of the year and is a reminder that something like 600 years ago a fireman would keep watch from this high point. He was looking out for fire the city was made of wood in those days - but also for any other threat. On one occasion, centuries ago, Krakow was about to be attacked. The fireman saw the threat, blew his bugle in warning but was shot in the throat by an arrow thereby suddenly ending his rendition. And so this strange melody is played in memory of that event from so many years ago. Going inside the church, one is bombarded with the usual riot of colour and gilt figures which typify a Roman Catholic church. The spectacle almost hurts the eye. Above the high altar there is the Veit Stoss, an elaborately carved triptych whose side panels fold over the central piece (supposedly) to reveal yet more fabulous carvings on the back. This happens at 6pm each day - apart from the days when it doesn't ; such as when I was there! On another occasion, we were guided around the Wawel Hill area where the castle and the cathedral can be found along with the barbican, city gates and parts of the original city walls. The whole place is dripping with history but, although the gate and walls are fine, I'm afraid I wasn't impressed with the castle - nothing like our castles! - even though it was where kings resided when Krakow was the Polish capital (there is tremendous rivalry
between Krakow and Warsaw). Neither was the cathedral so interesting as St Mary's in my opinion. I've seen better. At the more mundane level, I had to exchange my currency into Polish Zloty. This was very easy - "kantors" are found everywhere - and conversion was simple, ie ÂŁ1 = 5Zl (approx). I was also keen to try Polish food and experienced something called Kotlet which turned out to be similar to Wiener Snitzel; something (unpronounceable) which was basically chicken and chips with salad; and pork goulash with dumplings (nothing like our idea of dumplings). I found Polish beer to be very acceptable and also came home with a bottle of cherry vodka (very moreish!) The trip to the Wieliczka salt mine was a mind-blowing experience. It is absolutely enormous and extends down to nine levels (1000 feet). We only ventured down to the third level (400+ feet) by walking down at least 600 steps before, finally, enough was enough. Very tiring when you're knocking on a bit. The mine has been in existence since the middle ages and is full of statues and effigies, many on a religious theme, carved out of the salt rock by some of the early miners. There are also models depicting working practices of bygone days and show that life underground must have been very tough indeed, eg when combating the effects of methane gas or water seepage at depth.
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A Travellers Tale
(Continued)
There is one cavern of staggering proportions which has been hewn straight from the rock. When viewed from above, people below look like ants and when one gets down to base level, one finds a number of religious/biblical frescos carved in the salt walls, eg a version of the famous "Last supper". This enormous chamber is illuminated by chandeliers made from pure and transparent salt crystals - halite - in place of the usual glass. With a casual glance, one can't tell the difference. Mercifully, our return to the surface was courtesy of a small miners' cage holding 10 people at a time in a very cosy embrace! I don't think I could have climbed all the way back to the surface: had it been necessary to do so, I'd still be there! The mine was in production for many centuries but ceased in 1996 when the owners clearly realised there was a much greater profit to be made from tourists than from salt! But, all in all, it had been a most interesting and informative trip. To be continued.
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15
Bedfordshire’s Night Sky Looking Up! in February and March 2014 By Seb Jay
Image: Orion Nebula by Dave Eagle
Jupiter’s Winter Spectacular… Continues:
February and March is a great time to track down Jupiter. It is easy to see in the constellation of Gemini, outshining all of the stars in the night sky. Look high up towards the south midevening to see its bright white light. Jupiter is so large that 10x50 binoculars are all that is needed to reveal the planet’s disc along with its four brightest moons. With a small telescope you can see dark bands in Jupiter’s atmosphere, while bigger telescopes gain you spectacular views of the 300-year old storm system affectionately known as the Great Red Spot. Dark Sky Telescope Hire www.darkskytelescopehire.co.uk
Discover a Stellar Nursery:
Moonless nights this time of year give us the best opportunity to seek out the haunting Orion Nebula. In small telescopes this gigantic star factory, where new stars are being born over many millions of years, appears as a ghostly claw of grey-green light. Darker filaments twist through the nebula, which itself surrounds a small cluster of newborn stars. It is a fantastic sight in a telescope from the darker locations across Bedfordshire.
Catch Mars at Midnight:
Mars becomes more conspicuous in the night sky during February and March. The Red Planet is found in the ESE during February about 10-15 degrees above the horizon at midnight. During March it is further across in the SE sky between 20-25 degrees above the horizon at midnight. You’ll notice it close to the bluewhite star Spica in the constellation of Virgo. seb@darkskytelescopehire.co.uk
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Martin What’sBestForYou
LEWIS
Tackle your bills
By Martin Lewis
Avoid The Red Letters
Tackle Your Bills
comparison on any Ofgem-approved comparison Winter is coming. Don’tWinter wait until in until isyou’re here.knee-deep Don’t wait you’re knee-deep in the white stuff to site – just search for The Confidence Code at the white stuff to sort your bills. Here, prevention truly bills. Here, truly beats cureto- see tackling www.ofgem.gov.uk the fullyour list. bills now beats cure – tacklingsort youryour bills now means youprevention can take the financial bite out of winter chills… means you can take the financial bite out of winter chills… If you're not online, use a comparison with a phone Free loft insulation and even boilers (for some). service,www.ofgem.gov.uk such as Energyhelpline 074 0745, or to seeon the0800 full list. Free loft insulation and even boilers (for some) While the loft insulation free-for-all's ended, some will uSwitch on 0800 051 5493. If you're not online, use a comparison with a phone the loft insulation free-for-all's ended, some still be entitledWhile to some serious free energy-saving service, such as Energyhelpline on 0800 074 0745, or will still be entitled to some serious free energy-saving Paying energy bills by monthly direct debit’s up to 6% measures. uSwitch on 0800 051 5493. measures. cheaper. Most of the big six energy firms offer free boilers, typiIf you can, do, as it’ll usually mean discounted bills of up Most of the big six worth energy£2,000, firms offer freeinsulation, boilers, usually worth cally and free Paying energy bills by monthly direct debit’s 6% less, so contact your provider to check. Though typically worthabout £2,000, and free insulation, usually worth £300. Crucially, you don't need to be withtothe up to 6% cheaper always Ifdoyou regular meter readings accuracy, as your about £300. Crucially, you don't need to be with the energy provider to get it, but you do generally need can, do, as it’ll usuallyfor mean discounted bills If it’s high, you have a righttotocheck. ask an to income £16,000, and to be on an income-bill is estimated. energy provider get it,under but you do generally need of up to 6% less,too so contact your provider benefits orbe pension credit. I can’t definitely forsay it toThough be lowered. income underrelated £16,000, and to on income-related always do regular meter readings for acyou’ll qualify, it isdefinitely worth checking. Alternatively, curacy, as your bill is estimated. If it’s too high, you benefits or pension credit. Ibut can’t say you’ll Got electricity only? canit still the well-meaning but stuttering Green Deal initiative have a right to You ask for to besave. lowered. qualify, but it is worth checking. Alternatively, the wellWith electricity only, only? you can still cheap fix to save is designed to let you pay for things like underfloor Got electricity You canget stilla save. meaning but stuttering Green Deal initiative is designed heating, double glazing and solid wall insulation,just follow info above. onget Economy Withthe electricity only, For youthose can still a cheap7,fix to let you pay from for things like underfloor double the 'savings' you makeheating, on energy bills. Deciding assessing is trickier. It’s only a boonFor forthose thoseon who to save - just follow thereally info above. glazing and solid wall insulation, 'savings' whether it’s right forfrom you isthe complex, soyou for full help Economy is trickier. It’s If only a use at least 40% 7, of assessing their energy at night. notreally – don’t read make on energy bills. Deciding whether it’s right for you for those who use at least 40% of their energy bother.boon Full help to decide at www.mse.me/eco7 is complex, sowww.moneysavingexpert.com/greendeal for full help read at night. If not – don’t bother. Full help to decide at Can youwww.mse.me/eco7 find your stopcock? www.moneysavingexpert.com/greendeal Save £100s and beat the hikes No sniggering - winter frozen pipe bursts can create an Rather in Can you find your stopcock? Save £100s and beatsurprisingly, the hikes. fixing energy, where you lockaverage £7,000 of damage, often worsened as many a set rate, is now cheaper than a normal No sniggering - winter pipe bursts canmains create Rather surprisingly, fixing energy, where you lock in aswitch. set Five scrabble round searching for frozen their stopcock - the of the big six aenergy providers now an average £7,000 of damage, often worsened as rate, is now cheaper than normal switch. have Five of theannounced big water off switch - for ages as their home floods. hikes, and their best new prices are costlier than the many scrabble round searching for their stopcock six energy providers have now announced hikes, and cheapest fixed tariffs. So right now you can get the the mains switch - forisages as their home Take the time to water find itoff now – mine under the kitchen their best newvery prices are costlier than the cheapest fixed cheapest deals available, and it comes with no- floods. sink. Others find theirs in the bathroom or inside a tariffs. So righthike nowcertainty. you can get the very cheapest deals Take the time to find it now – mine is under the cupboard. If yours isn’t working, you may want to call a available, andThe it comes with no-hike certainty. only exception to this is a variable (ie, subject to kitchen sink. Others find theirs in the bathroom or innow, before it’s a problem. hikes) tariff from minnow Spark Energy – though plumber it side a cupboard. If yours isn’t working, you may want hasn'tto hiked needs paying upfront, The only exception this (yet?), is a variable (ie, subject to and feedto call a plumber now, before it’s a problem. Choosing between heating and eating? backminnow ain't great, so I’m ignoring it. it hasn't hikes) tariff from Spark Energy – though seriously behind, or in general financial hardship The cheapest fix comesand from E.on for aain't year, butIf you're Choosing between heating and eating? hiked (yet?), needs paying upfront, feedback - as far Iftoo many are after the hikes you may be eligible slightly longer and only a touch more are deals from you're seriously behind, or in- general financial great, so I’m ignoring it. EDF or Npower. Crucially, these two have no exit for special help.-Call thetoo Home Helpline on 0800 hardship as far manyHeat are after the hikes - you33 on E.on the off-chance Prime Minister 66de99 tomay check. Plus if anyone in your was bornHeat on be eligible for special help. home Call the Home The cheapest penalties. fix comes So from for a year,the but slightly livers the price cuts he’s promised, and the even or more Helpline on 0800 66 99due to check. anyone before 5 January 1952,33you're up to Plus £300ifin taxlonger and only a touch more are deals from EDF or unlikely event that they’ll be so substantial that other in your was born on or before 5 January 1952, free winter fuelhome payments. Payments should be made Npower. Crucially, two have no exit you'll penalties. Soto leave. tariffsthese elsewhere are cheaper, be free you're due to £300never in tax-free fuel payautomatically, butup if you’ve had itwinter before then you on the off-chance the Prime Minister delivers the price However, always do the numbers for your own ments. Payments should be made automatically, but may need to register - see www.gov.uk. cuts he’s promised, and the even moreif unlikely circumstances. To check you can event save (you may if you’ve never had it before then you may need to that they’ll bebe soon substantial other tariffs an older, that cheaper deal), andelsewhere who your winner register www.gov.uk. Plus anyone on- see specific income support, jobseekers' is, youbecan use Cheap Energy Club top fixes are cheaper, you'll free tomy leave. Plus anyone on specific income jobseekallowances or pension credit gets £25 support, in cold weather comparison at www.cheapenergyclub.com, or do a ers' allowances or pension credit gets £25 in cold payments for every 7 days it's sub-0 C. However, always do the numbers for yourOfgem-approved own standard comparison on any com- weather payments for every 7 days it's sub-0 C. circumstances.parison To check can save may be on Code at site if– you just search for(you The Confidence an older, 20 cheaper deal), and who your winner is, you can use my Cheap Energy Club top fixes comparison at
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Mabel’s News
from Appledown
Hello again!
I am Mabel the resident dog at Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels in Eaton Bray. We were very busy over Christmas and the New Year because, unfortunately, it is a time of the pledown year when a lot of dogs, find themselves without a dog at Appledown Rescue and home through no fault of their own. We are working e were very busy over Christmas and the towhen provide s a time ofhard the year a lot ofthe dogs,dogs with the care they need until gh no fault of their own. We are working the right owners come along to give them a second e they need until the right owners come chance of happiness.
What do dogs dream of...
when you’re away on holiday or out for the day
Outstanding, affordable care in our own home with our family
of happiness.
I would like to introduce you to Misty, a medium-sized crossbreed aged six years. She is a gentle, affectionate girl and is good with other dogs. Misty would like a quiet home, perhaps with retired owners. She was not walked in her previous home but she is learning to walk nicely on the lead. Misty is not at all happy in kennels and so we are very keen for her to find the kind, loving home she deserves.
irl e,
ry
a
o
o raise funds for the kennels. Music, Please contact the kennels.
If you feel you could offer Misty, or any of our other dogs, loving and secure home please call in at the Road, Eaton Bray,aBeds LU6 1QY ennels@btinternet.com. kennels any day between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Our 6848) staff will be happy to offer advice and information. Please note that we have restrictions on rehoming dogs to families with children under 7 years of age, so please ask for details
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In The Garden
Gardens For Playing
B
y February Christmas can seem like a distant memory: toys and games which were desired for months beforehand, are now no longer new. I’m sure I’m not alone in remembering how the excitement of a new toy soon faded, but for me the big box in which it was wrapped provided entertainment for a much greater length of time because it could be turned into a car, a bus, a den or a robot. Recently I was asked to apply this theory when designing a family garden: a fun outdoor space, with no obvious pieces of play equipment such as a big blue climbing frame; a bright red slide, or a plastic swing. Instead fun is designed into the garden space much more subtly, the key being to introduce elements which children can ‘accidentally’ find, and which stimulate thought and exercise their creative minds. Children love pretending, and creative play can include play sand, water and of course mud (surely you must have made mud pies or sloppy dosh when you were a child – for those who didn’t its mud and water mixed in a bucket or bowl with a stick then left to harden in the sun). Elements such as a mud kitchen, logs to jump off and a tree to climb are all much more fun (and cheaper) than modern play equipment. I love to see a garden which on first inspection looks like an adult space, but has elements for initiating play. Stepping stones through a border; a self contained water feature; bark areas under trees for den making; grass mounds for climbing up and rolling back down; paths to race bikes on; washing line poles to climb, and a small bridge to cross when escaping from trolls…the usual thing! Parents also often ask about child-friendly plants, and
28
it’s a tricky question to provide a quick answer for. There are basically two ways in which children could be adversely affected by garden plants: ingestion, or contact. The majority of ornamental plants, roots, seeds and berries range from slightly to very toxic, but statistically (research shows) that the number of deaths is tiny. The vast majority taste so disgusting that your child probably would spit most of it out, and if poisonous then vomiting would most likely occur because it is the body’s natural defence mechanism (apple pips must surely be the most commonly eaten poisonous seeds!). Foxgloves, fungi and Delphinium seeds are the most commonly known plant poisons, but others less well known include Daffodils, which are planted in most gardens and public places without a second thought. The leaves of Rhubarb, green parts on tomatoes and potatoes are all harmful, but we still grow them in schools. I think garden education at a young age is the key, and given most under 3’s won’t be outside alone in the garden it shouldn’t be a problem … anyway, they’ll be too busy playing to eat the plants!
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ps
SEAT Alhambra SE 2.0 By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Writer
www.carwriteups.co.uk
auto Biographies
@carwriteups
PEOPLE CARRIERS just aren’t sexy. That’s a fact. But SEAT’s Alhambra is a perennially popular one – for a very good reason. As an authentic Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV), the almighty Alhambra’s adaptability fits just as well to family necessities as it does to the needs of the milemunching business driver. The sizable SEAT’s sporting spirit and driving enjoyment certainly go hand-in-hand with common sense and originality. And thanks to its unexpectedly lively handling and hi-tech equipment, you can look forward to every mile behind the wheel. With a combined fuel consumption figure of around 50 mpg, the Alhambra SE 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive 140 PS won’t rob you at the pumps either.
powerful presence, but its slightly overstuffed looks won’t be to everyone’s taste. Beneath its so-so skin, the Alhambra’s TDI engine, on test here, generates 138bhp. It produces good, low down pulling power for such a large vehicle, and efficiency measures such as a Start-Stop system and brake energy recovery technology come as standard.
SEAT Alhambra
The stock safety equipment is, like much of the Alhambra, impressive. It involves seven airbags, including a driver-side knee airbag, and electric child locks on the rear doors. Also standard is electronic braking assist, tyre pressure monitoring, and stability aids.
powerful presence, but its slightly overstuffed looks Indeed, the award-winning SEAT Alhambra is an MPV won’t be to everyone’s taste. Beneath its so-sodecent skin,features. So it's no shocker it just with some truly ThePeople present incarnationcarriers of the motor, launched in late s named an authentic Multiwas not only Best MPV by Diesel Car, but 2010,Alhambra’s is longer thanTDI its engine, forerunner on - and the test here, generates Purpose Vehicle (MPV), aren’t sexy. voted Best MPV in WhatCar? Car of the Year 2011, wider. There’s plenty of breathing space for adults to 138bhp. It produces good, low down power for 2012 and 2013! sit happily, even in the third row of fold-away seats, pulling the almighty Alhambra’s whilst athe big sliding doors fantastically easymeasures such as a That’s aallow fact! such large vehicle, and efficiency adaptability fits just as though. well This to car, Such a good vehicle comes at a cost access. Start-Stop system and brake energy bought new,recovery isn’t that far off the mark.to That’s family necessities as£30,000 it does But SEAT’s Alhambra an awful lot of cash to splash for room and versatility. The load area is charitable, too. When configured as a technology come as standard. the needs of the mile-munching But, let’s face it, when it comes to transporting your five-seater the Alhambra has 885 litres of luggage is a perennially family around, safety is priceless. space available, which swells to a vast maximum of business driver. 2,297 litres if only the front two seats are in use. In The stock safety equipment popular one – for a other words, this car could help clear out a is, large like much of the swathe of a whiteimpressive. goods department! It involves seven The sizable SEAT’s sporting spirit Alhambra, airbags, FACTS PROS ‘N’ CONS very good reason. FAST and driving enjoyment certainly including knee airbag, electric speed: 120child mph Roomy √ Aesthetically, athedriver-side MPV has an undeniably broad, and Max go hand-in-hand with comSafe and sound √ 10.9 secs 0-62 locks on the rear doors. Also standard is mph: electronic Efficient sense and originality. And√ Combined mpg: 50.4 mon braking assist, tyre pressure monitoring, and stability Questionable looks X thanks to its Engine: 1968cc, 4 unexpectedly lively Pricey X aids. cylinder, 16 valve, turbo diesel handling and hi-tech equipment,
A
Max. power (bhp): you can look forward to every 138 at 4,200 rpm Indeed, the award-winning SEAT Alhambra is an MPV Max. behind torque (lb/ft):the wheel. With mile 240 atshocker 1,750 rpm fuel with some truly decent features. So it'sa no it consumption combined CO2: 146 g/km was not only named Best MPV by Diesel Car, but 50 mpg, the figure of around Price: £26,910 on the road Alhambra SE 2.0 TDI CR Ecomovoted Best MPV in WhatCar? Car of the Year 2011, tive 140 PS won’t rob you at the 2012 and 2013! pumps either. FAST FACTS Such a good vehicle comes at a cost though. This car, Themark. present incarnation of the Max speed: mph bought new, isn’t that 120 far off the £30,000 That’s motor, launched in late 2010, 0-62 mph: 10.9 secs an awful lot of cash to splash for room and versatility. is longer than its forerunner But, Combined let’s face it,mpg: when50.4 it comes to transporting and wider.your There’s plenty of Engine: 1968cc, 4 is cylinder family around, safety priceless. breathing space for adults to sit 16 valve, turbo diesel happily, even in the third row of Max. power (bhp): fold-away seats, whilst the big 138 at 4,200rpm sliding doors allow fantastically Max. torque (lb/ft): FAST FACTS PROSeasy ‘N’access. CONS 240 at 1.750 rpm Max speed: 120 mph Roomy √ CO2: 146 g/km The load area is charitable, Safe and sound √ 0-62 mph: 10.9 secs Price: £26,910 on the road too. When configured as a fiveEfficient √ seater the Alhambra has 885 Combined mpg: 50.4 PROS Questionable X space available, & CONS litres oflooks luggage Engine: Roomy √ 1968cc, 4 which Pricey swellsXto a vast maximum cylinder, 16 valve, of 2,297 litres if only the front Safe and sound √ turbo diesel two seats are in use. In other Max. power (bhp): Efficient √ words, this car could help clear 138 at 4,200looks rpm X Questionable out a large swathe of a white Pricey X Max. torque (lb/ft): goods department!
240 at 1,750 rpm
CO2: 146 g/km
SE 2.0
By Tim Barnes-Clay www.carwriteups.co.uk Aesthetically, the MPV has an undeniably broad, powerful presence, but its slightly overstuffed looks won’t be to everyone’s taste. Beneath its so-so skin, the Alhambra’s TDI engine, on test here, generates 138bhp. It produces good, low down pulling power for such a large vehicle, and efficiency measures such as a Start-Stop system and brake energy recovery technology come as standard. The stock safety equipment is, like much of the Alhambra, impressive. It involves seven airbags, including a driver-side knee airbag, and electric child locks on the rear doors. Also standard is electronic braking assist, tyre pressure monitoring, and stability aids. Indeed, the award-winning SEAT Alhambra is an MPV with some truly decent features. So it's no shocker it was not only named Best MPV by Diesel Car, but voted Best MPV in WhatCar? Car of the Year 2011, 2012 and 2013! Such a good vehicle comes at a cost though. This car, bought new, isn’t that far off the £30,000 mark. That’s an awful lot of cash to splash for room and versatility. But, let’s face it, when it comes to transporting your family around, safety is priceless.
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TECHNOLOGY
Parking Sensors
For over three decades I have happily manoeuvred an assortment of vehicles through a variety of traffic situations, and have safely reversed into a multitude of parking spaces - but I still bless the day I took possession of my latest car! For the first time ever I am experiencing the benefits of having parking sensors fitted – and as happens with many things, now I’ve got them, I wonder how I ever managed without them! Just this week, the warning bleep I receive whilst reversing towards another object prevented a potential collision. The driver of the other car and I were parked across from each other and we both started to reverse out of our parking spaces at the same time – which meant that even though I had checked all was clear before starting the manoeuvre, we ended up on a direct collision course! The insistent and increasingly frantic bleep of my reversing sensors alerted me to the danger and I was able to pull forward out of harm’s way. It’s not all about avoiding collisions though. Having parking sensors means that I am able to fit my car into smaller spaces because the job of judging distance and space has been taken from me, to a degree. I now find I have much more confidence about parking and am able to do it with greater ease. 34
There are two types of parking sensors
1 Ultrasonic sensors bounce sound waves off obstacles, using the ‘echo’ time to indicate how far away they are. A speaker in the car bleeps – with increasing urgency – as the obstacles get closer. They work even when the car is stationary, but may miss smaller or narrow objects and inclines. Fitting usually requires drilling the bumper and they may not be suitable for use with a tow bar. 2 Electromagnetic sensors create an invisible electromagnetic field around the car’s bumper and any objects entering it trigger a warning sound. Mounted inside the bumper so that there is no need for drilling, they are suitable for use with tow bars, cycle racks etc. but only detect objects once the once the car is in motion. Parking sensors can be fitted to the rear or front of a vehicle – or both. Reverse sensors activate once reverse gear is selected and switch off automatically when the gear is changed. Front sensors are activated manually and usually deactivate once a pre-determined speed is reached by the vehicle. In my opinion, parking sensors are an absolute MUST - but if your car doesn’t have them, don’t despair! They can be fitted post manufacture, with prices starting at around £30 for the ultrasonic version, and £70 for the electromagnetic sensors. By Alex Albrighton
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Consumer Clinic
By Jonathan Vernon-Smith
Knowing when to go to court! Thankfully most consumer disputes can be settled through effective and firm dialogue. If not, there are programmes such as mine that offer additional assistance for people who are finding it difficult to resolve their consumer complaint. However, some cases just cannot be resolved, no matter how hard one or both parties try. It is for these cases that the small claims court can be very helpful.
This month, I will outline how to use the small claims court system to obtain the best results. You can listen to The JVS Show every weekday morning from 9am on BBC Three Counties Radio Firstly, DO NOT RUSH TO COURT. In my experience, judges often look unfavourably at customers who are seen to take a company to court too quickly. It makes the consumer look unreasonable which never bodes well. Therefore always try as hard as you can to resolve the complaint between yourselves first. Consider the small claims court your last resort and it is essential that you have kept a record of your conversations and correspondence. When you reach the conclusion that (within 6 years of the dispute and for amounts up to £10,000) the company or tradesman is not prepared to resolve the problem, you must write a letter of intention. Make it clear in the letter that you have tried hard to offer them opportunities to resolve the problem and that you would like to offer them one final opportunity. Allow them one month from receipt of the letter to respond, and make it clear that if you do not hear from them, you will lodge papers with the small claims court. Send the letter recorded delivery and ensure they 38 have received it and signed for it.
If they still show no interest in resolving the dispute, then you have an important decision to make. Will you go through with your threat of court action or not? If you decide on the former, you must go into it with your eyes open. You can always lose as well as win, however it may not cost you as much as you may think. The fee is dependent on how much you are suing for, but this will be outlined when you proceed with the action. If you are successful, the defendant will have to pay your costs as well as the amount you are claiming for. It is also worth noting that you do not need a lawyer to take someone to the small claims court. It’s relatively straight forward, and as long as you’ve been reasonable and sensible in your dealings with the company or tradesman, you stand a good chance of getting a favourable judgement. In many cases, mediation is offered as a way of agreeing a course of action. The result of this is not legally binding, and most often I would advise you to proceed with this where offered. It doesn’t prevent you progressing
a case to a judge if unsuccessful. However, turning it down can made you look unreasonable. If things go your way, the judge will award in your favour and will request that the defendant pays you a sum of money (either the whole of the amount you’re seeking, or a proportion of it). They will be given instructions as to how to pay it, and if they fail to do so, you can instruct county court bailiffs to recover the money. You can also escalate the case to the high court for a further fee and instruct the high court enforcement officers to chase your money. Taking a company to court can be a daunting prospect, and I would always suggest obtaining advice from your local citizens advice bureau who will give you tailormade advice on your specific case. Good luck!
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Did you know there’s a very special gift shop in Toddington that donates ALL its profits to Charity?
GIFTS • CARDS • JEWELLERY • BEAUTY PRODUCTS & MUCH MORE
Please support us & visit The Little Shop is based on the Green in Toddington. We stock a wide range of contemporary & beautiful gifts & cards for adults & children. Great Prices – many products sold at below the RRP.
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Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles
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Out&About
HOMESTART Have you got just 2 to 3 hours to spare each week to support a local young family who are struggling to cope? The charity Home-Start is looking for caring parents and grandparents. All training and support is given and expenses paid. It’s a great way to gain new skills, make friends and really make a difference to your community. Tel: 01582 660061 office@home-startcentralbeds.org.uk www.home-startcentralbeds.org.uk
BREAKOUT SOCIAL CLUB We are a club for the over forty fives, not a singles club but a social club for people who enjoy going out but are on their own, where they can meet like-minded people, with a varied monthly programme covering Disco’s, Pub lunch’s, walks, parties and much, much more, we meet once a week in the front bar at the Conservative Club, High street North Dunstable For more information please contact Sandy on 07813 262556 DUNSTABLE SENIOR CITIZENS What age would you like to live to? Would you like to live it with Dignity, Financial peace of mind, With a voice We are a local group fighting the fight for the over 50’s Interested in finding out more? Come to a meeting We meet the last Thursday of each month at 2pm In the Social club of The Catholic Church in West Street Dunstable Or call for more information on 01582 534357 WATLING STREET CLUB We are an independent social club for ex-Rotarians and similarly minded people and have been in existence for nearly 3 years. We are named ‘The Watling Street Club’ as our members form a link along the Watling Street. We meet every Thursday evening at the ‘Old Hunter’s Lodge’ Whipsnade for a meal and speaker. New members are welcome. For more information contact John Stevens 01582 668033
44
• Clubs • Groups • Events • Community
DUNSTABLE BRIDGE CLUB We meet every Monday (except bank holidays) in Chews House in High Street South, Dunstable, from 1pm to 5pm. We would welcome new members of all standards and you do not need a partner. If anyone is interested please call: 01582 664485 THE BOGTROTTERS The Bogtrotters (Dunstable and District Walking and Hostelling Group) are a group of about 90 walkers, hikers and hostellers. We run a surprisingly diverse range of activities, including half and full day walks, hostelling trips, meals and evening activities. New members are always welcome. Prospective members are invited to get in touch via the website, give us a ring or just turn up to an event or walk. Enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk 01582 865966 Sue or Julian DUNSTABLE WI Dunstable Downside WI meet two evenings a month on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at Watling Lower School Bullpond Lane at 7.0pm. We are friendly group and like to enjoy ourselves. We have a wide range of speakers with different talents and crafts, and also Quiz nights to test our brains. We welcome new members so join us and make new friends 3rd Feb - Samaritans– Jill Hearne 27th Feb- Members evening 13th Mar - History of Luton Hoo 27th Mar - Birthday Party For more information telephone Chris Brewin 01582 520361 Chairperson FRIENDS OF STUDHAM COMMON We are a friendly,voluntary group whose aim is to conserve,maintain and promote Studham Common as a haven for wildlife and a place for everyone to enjoy.For this purpose we meet as a work party on the third Saturday of each month (except Dec.) The work is not onerous and we enjoy the exercise and the good company –and a picnic lunch is provided! Details from Pam on 01582 872608 pamrumfitt@btinternet.com
CHILTERN GATEWAY CENTRE Chilterns Gateway Centre Shop, 01582 500925 50 things Activities
2nd February & 2nd March 2 - 3 pm FREE Bring the kids and join us on the first Sunday of the month get involve with National Trusts 50 thing to do before your 11 and ¾. Each Sunday you’ll get to cross another fantastic activity off you list and get outdoors and discover something new! We’ll be taking the kids to explore outdoors so remember to dress for the weather.
Half Term Crafty Creative Fun
17th - 21st February Join us this half term and get making! We’ll be having a different activity happening every day from Kite to mask making and plenty of other creative craft fun. Please see the time table below. Monday - kite & flag making, Tuesday - mask making, Wednesday - Cress head making, Thursday - clay making, Friday - puppet making. PRIORY LADIES We are a lively group of ladies, if you like interesting talks, meeting people and occasional trips out then why not join us! We meet on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month 8.00pm 10.00pm Meetings are held at Chews House, 77 High Street South, Dunstable LU6 3SF 12th February Off the Wall - Priory House - Sue Turner 26th February The Magistracy - Gloria Martin & Keith Ford 12th March The Cinnamon Trust Caroline Stroud 26th March Midshires Search & Rescue Organisation - Elaine Murphy There will be a Spring Dinner at Dunstable Downs Golf Club during April. Tel: Monica 01582 667030 or Barbara 01582 606300
PRIORY HOUSE Priory House Heritage Centre Tel: 01582 891420 TEA TIME TALES Talks of local and national interest with tea or coffee and a pastry. Alternate Thursday afternoons 2.30 - 4.00pm £4.75 per person February 6th Four Norman Kings Paul Heley, Dunstable Town Guide February 20th The Marshe Family Hugh Garrod, Church Historian March 6th Inside the Archives; a look at the collections of the Bedfordshire and Luton Archives Service Dr Kathryn Faulkner, Archivist March 20th Dunstable Sea Cadets and their Windmill Acting Sub-Lieutenant Aiden Blumenthal GHOST WALKS Ghostly tales of knights, slaves and a headless soldier, combined with a walk on a dark night in the company of one our trained town guides are not for the faint hearted! Due to the cancellation of the Ghost Walk planned for December 27, the Dunstable Town Guides have organised another walk to take place on Sunday 2 February 5.00 pm Tickets are £5.00 per person and must be purchased in advance from the Priory House Reception. Children must be accompanied by an adult and one adult should not supervise more than one child, minimum age for children on the earlier walks is nine years and 12 years for the walks after 6pm. It is suggested that you wear warm clothing and flat shoes and that you bring a torch. All walks begin from the car park adjacent to the Priory Church and last approximately an hour. TEMPORARY EXHIBITIONS Looking for somewhere to exhibit your work? Why not try Priory House? Priory House has an exhibition space which can be used for groups or individuals to display artwork, photography or craft work. Exhibition items are often sold through the Gift Shop. For further information please contact Priory House.
BREATHEASY Do you suffer from a lung condition? Then why not come and join our local Support group - breatheasy Part of the British lung foundation. We meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month at peter newton pavilion (Behind tesco) 2 - 4pm carers also welcome As well as supporting each other we have a variety of speakers and also arrange day trips out. New members most welcome More info phone michael on 01582 602348 DUNSTABLE PROBUS CLUB Dunstable PROBUS Club meets on the second Monday of the month and membership is open to retired or semi-retired professional and business men. The Club’s main object is the promotion of good fellowship. Members enjoy a variety of social activities and organized visits throughout the year and at their regular monthly meetings they are entertained by after-lunch speakers. If you are interested in joining the Club, please contact the Secretary Malcolm Partridge 01525 222711 THE HEALING TRUST Ardley Hill School, Lowther Rd, Each Thursday evening 7.30 - 9pm. No charge, donations accepted. NFSH contact Pam Hill on 01582 606182 Come for interest or healing. LANGDALE CHURCH ‘HATTERS TEA’- informal neighbourhood group meets monthly on a Wednesday pm. Free tea/coffee & home-made cakes, quiz and raffle. Friends and Neighbours- monthly on a Thursday pm. Speakers and free tea/coffee. At Langdale Church. Other groups- table tennis, walking group and drawing for beginners Make the most of our community activities and meet new people in our community. Tel Colin, Community Worker 01582602980 BEDFORDSHIRE NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY February & March meetings At Maulden Village Hall, TL048380, TUESDAY 18th FEBRUARY, 7.45pm - Maulden Update on the Bedfordshire Orchid project, and where effort is needed for the coming season’ by Richard Revels, Chris Boon, and Graham Bellamy. TUESDAY 18th MARCH, 7.30pm
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Maulden Annual General Meeting. Officers and Recorders will present their annual reports. OSTEOPOROSIS SUPPORT GROUP Meeting 3rd Wednesday of the month 2pm - 3.30pm The Meeting Room (Access door near bus stop) ASDA Superstore Dunstable Court Drive, Dunstable LU5 4JD · Diagnosed with Osteoporosis/ Osteopenia · Find out ways to prevent further damage · Learn about foods that help build strong bones · February 26th a chance to meet others with the condition · March 26th Pilates Physiotherapist Guest Speaker (If conditions are Icy or snow we will rearrange for a better time) For more information: Contact Deborah Bird 01582 – 661914 or Email: Deborah.nos@btinternet.com ART CONTINUERS We meet on Tuesday mornings at The Way Dunstable in the Lower hall of the main church building of Christ Church Dunstable (West Street Baptist church) .We meet from 10-12pm. There are between 30-40 people who come with varying artistic abilities. Beginners are welcome. TODDINGTON HELPING HANDS We are a group of about 30 volunteers who provide lifts to the doctors, dentists, hospitals, hairdressers etc for the residents of Toddington, Chalgrave, Wingfield and Tebworth. We also carry out the delivery of prescriptions, shopping and general errand running to those who are not able to do so themselves. During the last quarter we completed in excess of 400 jobs in the local community. We now urgently need more volunteer drivers. Tel: 01525 633660
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