The Vine Villages - April/May 2014 - Issue 12

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the

April/May 2014 Issue 12

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Delivered FREE To • Pitstone • Ivinghoe Aston • Marsworth • Edlesborough • Eaton Bray • Totternhoe • Toddington • Harlington • Hockliffe • Stanbridge • Tilsworth • Eggington • Tebworth • Dagnall

for complete car care!

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Servicing - all makes and models to a high standard and without invalidating your manufacturers warranty Air Conditioning Service and Repair General Repairs Fault Finding Diagnostic Service - to all vehicle systems Tyres and Exhausts MOT Service - taking your car from Pre-MOT Inspection through to certification A long term established local business with highly experienced certified technicians Car collection service available Call us for friendly advice and check our competitive rates

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3

the

Vine

Editors: Scott Nightingale Shelly Nesbitt

Advertising: Shelly Nesbitt 01525 222379 07852 453043 Mailthevine@yahoo.co.uk

Editorial: 01525 222379 07852 453043 Mailthevine@yahoo.co.uk

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the content of advertising and articles published in this magazine are accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors.

Neither do they reflect the opinion of this publication. The Vine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication.

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

This Month...

80’s Mania Competition 6 Towm At Athe Crossroads 8 Eating Out 14 Looking Up! 16 What’s Best For You 20 In The Garden 28 Social Problems 30 Mabels News 34 Consumer Clinic 38 Puzzles 42 Out & About 44

Copy deadline for our next issue - 15th May

Coaches, Holidays & Excursions CALL NOW FOR YOUR FREE 2014 BROCHURE OUT NOW!

Watling Street, Dunstable, Beds LU6 3QP

Tel: 01582 60 00 00

Email sales@theobolds.com www.theobolds.com OVER 200 FANTASTIC DAYS OUT! • Towns • Villages • Seaside • Special Events • Highgrove Gardens • Christmas Markets

SHORT BREAKS

• Eastbourne Reunion Weekend • Weymouth for Easter

Don’t

Fo

rget!

We do PRIVAT E HIRE Book yo ur grou p their own co ac day trip h for a or holid ay THEATRE TRIPS Including

Strictly Tour, Robin Cousins Ice Show, War Horse, We Will Rock You, Jersey Boys, HOLIDAYS • Morecombe • Norfolk • LLandrindod Wells From Here To Eternity, Les Miserables, Phantom Of The Opera.

• Exmouth and many more.

4

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Put your child on the path to success • Montessori nursery for

3-4 year olds • Average teaching group of 15

• Optional, flexible, weekly boarding from Year 5

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To find out how we create an environment where every child can fulfil their potential, call our Registrar Liz Graham on 01582 840333 or visit www.beechwoodpark.net/openday Beechwood Park School Markyate Hertfordshire AL3 8AW

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5

Get Into The Grove!

80’s

mania

Coming To Dunstable’s

Grove Theatre on Friday 9th May 2014!

80’s MANIA, is the UK's Official 1980’s Multi Tribute Reunion Concert!

If you love the 80's - do not miss this show!

Kim Wilde, A-ha, Duran Duran, Wham, Cyndi Lauper, Culture Club, Madonna, Spandau Ballet, Madness, Erasure, The Human League... plus many many more LIVE in Concert!

A massive line up of 25 best selling artistes are authentically recreated to look and sound how they did back in the decade that fashion forgot.

Over 35 non stop hits with over 150 costumes are performed in this fast paced, high energy, feel good show together with the awesome Mania Band, and Dance Troupe, not forgetting the mind blowing huge video screen projection, laser and lighting design.

New Romantics, leg-warmers, stiletto’s, shoulder pads, big hair, neon… it’s all there. Both on and off the stage.

Be sure to arrive early as the party starts half an hour before with our 80's disco road show to get you all in the mood.

With an ever growing cult following and continued European success, 80's Mania has been touring the UK for the past 5 years and is now endorsed by ex Top of the Pops, Radio 1 and Saturday Superstore presenter, Mike Read.

So, dig out your worst 80's fashions, if you dare, (men too, complete with make up!) and come and join us for the best 80's night out, ever!!

Tickets available from www.80smaniashow.com or The Grove Theatre show box office Tel: 01582 602080 or www.grovetheatre.co.uk

WIN 2 TICKETS for 80’s Mania at

The Grove.

page like our facebook To enter simply

TABLE azine, DUNS The Vine Mag random 6

at r will be picked one lucky winne

Enjoy Home cooked food at the

Canalside Cafė Pitstone Wharf

Breakfasts Soups, Lunches Sandwiches, Toasties Homemade Cakes, Cream Teas Hot and Cold drinks =============== Open all Year

You Looking At Me? So Are Over 18,000

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April to Oct - Wed to Sun 10am-3pm

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or email mailthevine@yahoo.co.uk Pitstone, Bucks LU7 9AD for more 07769information 961196 www.canalsidecafe.co.uk

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FOUNDED ON TRADITION. LOOKING TO THE FUTURE. Founded on tradition. Looking to the future.

Celebrating

46 High St. Leighton Buzzard. LU7 1EA Years of Qual ity Customer Care Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm

E x i s t i ng Ne w Un i se x Hair & Beauty Clinic

Proud Proudto tobe becelebrating celebrating our 90th anniversary, Dillamore’s our 90th anniversary, offers serviceoffers as it should be Dillamore’s pop in and see for service as it shouldyourself! be.

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Huge Range of Furniture ■ Competitive Prices ■ Free Delivery ■ Fully Trained Staff

■ Removal of old furniture ■ Removal of new packaging ■ Lounge, Dining & Bedroom furniture ■ Accessories and artefacts

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Lounge, Dining & Bedroom Furniture & Accessories From a single chair to a complete suite, Dillamore’s have a huge display of quality furniture and accessories to choose from.

Over two showroom floors, we stock fine cabinet furniture including beds, sofa-beds, upholstery, lift & rise recliners and adjustable beds.

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Edlesborough Flowers

Call SewingMo for all your sewing needs: Clothing alterations Dressmaking Bridal Home decor and upholstery Vehicle upholstery

Professional, fast and friendly local service. www.sewingmo.co.uk info@sewingmo.co.uk 07581 396912

Flowers, Gifts, Jewellery and more…

For all your floral requirements for any occasion, visit your local village florist in Edlesborough. We also have a wide range of gifts including home ware, scarves, jewellery, luxury toiletries and our own range of scented candles.

Pop in and see us or visit our website.

Edlesborough Flowers, 2 High Street, Edlesborough, Beds LU6 2HS. Tel 01525 221920. edlesboroughflowers@gmail.com www.edlesboroughflowers.co.uk Mon – Thurs 9.30-4.00, Fri 9.30-5.30, Sat 9.30-4.00 Sat 9.30-4.00

www.thevinemagazine.com

7

Dunstable

R

The Town At The Crossroads - Part XII

ound about 1530, Henry 8th was not a happy bunny; everything was going wrong. His underlying problem was dynastic in that he felt he had to have a legitimate male heir in order to continue the Tudor line or else there could easily be a repeat of the tragic fiasco of the Wars of the Roses stemming from the weakness of Henry 6th.

A situation like that must be avoided at all costs. However, it seemed that Queen Catherine (now aged 45) was clearly unable to supply the necessary heir but that Henry’s new amour, Anne Boleyn, being young, fit and healthy presumably should be able to do the business admirably. Somehow it had to be bye bye Catherine. But how?

Unfortunately for Henry, Catherine wouldn’t play ball and flatly refused to agree to a divorce. Also, various deputations by the Cardinals Wolsey and Campeggio were unable to persuade the Pope that his original agreement to the marriage between Henry and Catherine was, with hindsight, unlawful (Popes then, like politicians today, never admitted they were wrong). Furthermore, the reluctant agreement by the universities (initiated by Cranmer) that the divorce should be allowed fell on the deaf ears of the English Catholic Church which only went along with papal decrees. It was stalemate all round.

Clearly, things were getting out of hand, not only was there the problem of the Tudor dynasty but internal power politics were also rife (stoked by Sir Thomas Boleyn, Anne’s father, and the amoral Duke of Norfolk). And, to cap it all, alternative (and anti-Catholic) religious opinions were in the air. It was all becoming very messy - and very dirty. Strong feelings were being pulled in every direction. Politics has always been a dirty business.

Let’s look briefly at the religious aspect. On the face of it, England was a Roman Catholic country answering only to the Pope in Rome - and Henry was a faithful follower of this doctrine. But since 1515/16, there had been an increasing (but very subliminal) undercurrent of dissent resulting from the teachings and writings of Martin Luther in Germany, I.e. an embryonic Protestant reformation. These rumblings (regarded as heresy by the Church) coincided with a growing dissatisfaction regarding the general behaviour of the clergy who, in many cases, were accused of gross immorality and corruption. In other words, the Church was losing its grip and also the unquestioning obedience it demanded.

Although Catherine was staunchly Catholic, Anne Boleyn extremely well educated and highly intelligent - was tempted by these new religious thoughts and read passages to Henry who, although by no means persuaded, conceded that some of the ideas had some merit. In this, she was aided, perhaps surprisingly, by Archbishop Cranmer (Wolsey’s 8

By Paul Heley

successor) - also a convert. It was he (Cranmer) who, (like Baldrick in the “Blackadder” series), had a “cunning plan” and suggested that Henry should forget about the Pope altogether and declare himself Head of the Church instead.

As such he would be able to do what he liked regarding marital matters. Although this was a tremendous step to take, it was perhaps the only way out of Henry’s “Grete and Weightie Matter” - so plans were put into motion.

As is well known, the coquettish Anne Boleyn hung Henry out to dry for a very long time, refusing to sleep with him unless the result was marriage. But her resistance couldn’t last for ever and by 1532 they were lovers in every sense.

In January 1533, they were secretly married, snubbing the Pope’s ruling and while Henry was still married to Catherine. The general populace was horrified: Catherine was still popular whereas Anne was considered little better than a whore. Consequently, Henry was rapidly losing any early popularity he had enjoyed and was becoming increasingly despotic.

Things were going from bad to worse and something had to be done PDQ. In response, Catherine was moved to Ampthill Castle and yet another court was convened

by Cranmer. The venue chosen was the Lady Chapel of Dunstable Priory which, being near enough to Ampthill for Catherine to attend was also distant enough from London so as not to cause riots. The court consisted of Cranmer (by now Archbishop of Canterbury), the Bishops of London, Winchester and Bath, Gervase Markham (Prior of Dunstable) and various legal advisers. Set up on the 8th May, 1533, Catherine was summoned the following day - but refused to attend. By her refusal, she was declared contumax such that any subsequent decisions were made in her absence.

But unlike most of the quickfire trials in which Henry had a vested interest, this particular court sat for the next two weeks arguing the merits of the case one way and the other. Eventually, on the 23rd of May, 1533 - and in defiance of the Pope - the marriage between Henry and Catherine was annulled thereby breaking forever any clerical tie between England and Rome. The effect of this decision, not only upon England but upon Britain in general and the rest of Europe is the stuff of serious historical research. Let us simply say that it was immense.

Following the annulment, the coronation of Anne (now heavily pregnant) quickly followed. Henry felt that his troubles should now be over and that the birth of the longed for and anticipated son would secure the Tudor dynasty once and for all. Fingers were tightly crossed!

But even though he had untold wealth and total autocratic control over the kingdom, Lady Luck continued to play the unpredictable female and rarely smiled upon him thereafter.

u en es M w ish e N wD Ne

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o & ble g the C lendar a t s a n i Dun upport Social C ising S dra ve Acti rity Fun Cha

AA Window Repairs Specialist in replacing cloudy windows

The old cliché “the more you put in, the more you get out” is certainly true for the members of Dunstable and District Orbit Club. Since its inception over 25 years ago, the club has raised nearly £60,000 for local charities from events such as quiz nights, stalls at carnivals and coffee mornings. We also give our time to help organisations and people in the community, such as marshalling at fun runs and helping to put on choir concerts for local senior citizens.

Supporting The Community!

However, there is more to belonging to Orbit than the camaraderie and teamwork nvolved in organising community and fundraising events. The emphasis is very much on having fun and providing an active social calendar – anything from llamatrekking, archery and 10-pin bowling, to meals, cinema trips and even taking to the skies in a glider! We plan events to suit all budgets, and many of them are free or ow cost, such as walks, games nights or simply getting together for a chat at the ocal pub. Annual membership is just £15.

 Window handles  Door handles  Window seals  Window/Door locks

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The old cliché “the more you put in, the more Call our repairs manager direct for an you get out” is certainly true for the members of Dunstable and District Orbit Club. Since its incepappointment on: 07432679405 tion over 25 years ago, the club has raised nearly Local family run business built on reputation. We The club is keen to expand its community, social and fundraising events and hopes £60,000 for local charities from events such as rt that new members would bring fresh ideas along with them. In return we can offer specialise in replacing the misty/cloudy window s ce i you friendship a sense of belonging as part of our team. skills quizand nights, stalls at carnivals and Whatever coffee your mornings. ” t u panes not the frames. Saving you money! e and background, everyone has something to offer, and we can all help to improve pti t oalso We also give our time to help organisations and gWe ince the communities we live in - and raise much-needed funds for worthy causes. u and s o fix all types of double glazing problems wont t i y e people in the community, such as marshalling at ore free inc es from Orbit meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month at Dunstablians Rugby Club, try to sell you new windows. he mWeluoffer fun Bedford runs and helpingRegis, to put on from choir concerts . S advice tquotes.

Bidwell Park, Road, Houghton LU5 6JW, 8 pm.

Our first for b riti ive o , n i and free no obligation We also offer meeting local of the month is a planning meeting, where we discuss what community, tC g l chaanlOAP ut i senior citizens. a p b c r u o l familye run social or fundraising events we would like to hold. Our second meeting (3 Tuesday a so shalli DISCOUNT. t Owe arefoarlocal yo Remember c i e r However, is more toclub. belonging to You’ll Orbit W r t of the month) is purely athere social gathering at the Give us a try! be given r 0 you s o . reading. m business a very warm welcome. dnotDai franchise. s ma 0,00Thank ngsfor i a n than the camaraderie and teamwork involved in “the 6 n a £ r h c o . e lichoné unstabl d nearly ffee m nity, su citizens community and fundraising events.

For moreorganising information please visit www.orbitclub.org.uk/dunstable or contact cMark d l o Alan & Gemma e u o directly c r 01582 539379 or Julie on 01582 535761. You can also email the club from f D s rais The emphasis is very much on having and enio and The fun omm the website. rs o vals in the c r local s cam mbe club ha arniwww.aawindowrepairs.co.uk providing an active social calendarm–eanything the s. o c f e e (351 words) l n t h s p a t a t from llama-trekking, archery and 10-pin o r , bowling, ent it th talls and pe r conce agoto Orb ising ev lend to meals, cinema trips and even taking s, sskies i tthe o s o t h n h g a o i g c ti l ca in a glider! We plan events to suit allnbudgets, gin ndr nisaand put on elon and fu ve socia ema t b o orgasa walks, t many of them are free or low cost, such o i t g cin ity ct e elpainchat mor ommun ng an a meals, ets, an games nights or simply getting togetherhfor s i e gc vidi , to udg at the local pub. Annual membership is just £15. r, ther nisin and pro owling it all b ly gettin e a v g e r u b The club is keen to expand its community,osocial FREE COLLECTION & DELIVERY H w ed in o ng fun 10-pin nts to s or simp and fundraising events and hopes that new memv i Cambelts, l e v s d o t v a n Diesel, Petrol, v h e h a in In on ig 5. bers would bring fresh ideas along with them. h hery We plan ames n just £1 c c r u a m of ing, Diagnostic Checks, g s return we can offer you friendship and a sense i ! , r l an s kk ocia w glide as walk bership s belonging as part of our team. Whatever your treskills a , y t MOT’s m Arranged uni in long and background, everyone has something to soffer, kies st, such nual me m/m as a rt of o e c o Tel: 01525 211707 Mob: 07838 656724 07986 033428 n d c i s A and we can all help to improve the communi-low d it esh LU7g9HW s pa b. g frBuzzard, ties we live in - and raise much-needed funds forcal pu Unit 6, 81 Leighton Rd,eStanbridge, xpan bNr.rLeighton n a to offe n i i g o n o t l uld worthy causes. enwww.apwelding.co.uk e ing belo is ke bers wo nse of someth uch-ne b Orbit meets on the first and third Tuesday of the u l e m s c s m a e e m da Y eh ais month at Dunstablians Rugby Club, Bidwell Park,The new ship an veryonM O- and r ft Bedford Road, Houghton Regis, LU5 6JW, from that e d n L d, M live i en ay o , i n r d f u s e o u 8pm. Our first meeting of the month is a planTu yo egis ckgr ities we ning meeting, where we discuss what community, nd ba third hton R g, un d a n m g a u tin m social or fundraising events we would like to hold. first ad, Ho g mee to e co e h PEST CONTROL t h o tall your pest in Our second meeting (3rd Tuesday of the month) is like solutions lann on your dR ts ...for p uld g a ...for eALL dforpest o asolutions e purely a social gathering at the club. Give us a try! e w s B i m in e it , th onTong ts w l gather You’ll be given a very warm welcome.

Orb ell Park Peter n m e v e For more information please visit oue website ng e a socia of th aisor Bidw ing220653 r i 07958 01525 669706 ly t d e www.orbitclub.org.uk/dunstable or contact Mark n e fu m pure . r s o i l .o ) on 01582 539379 or Julie on 01582 535761. You e a onth elcom soci www 6 m t i can also email the club directly from the website. s w e i v th 57 rd

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13

Eating Out

Under New New Management Management Under

New May Fu Chinese Restaurant Restaurant Review New May Fu 17 Marsworth Rd Pitstone LU7 9AT

01296 661969 New May Fu Chinese restaurant has under gone some changes recently, as well as being under new management it has also undergone a refurb. Having heard only good things, we thought we would give it a try and find out what every one was raving about.

Located in Pitstone, it was a welcome change to venture out of Town and try something new... We were not disappointed.

Our table was booked for 8pm. We were greeted by friendly staff and escorted to our table by Eddie who, I am pleased to say, was our waiter for the evening.

The new decor is simple and neutral with touches of the orient and the interior is spacious, making for a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.

The menu is varied and offers a great choice of authentic Chinese dishes and on selected days an “eat as much as you like” option is available.

Having notified Eddie we had a vegetarian in our party, the kitchen were only too happy to accommodate a few changes to the set menu.

We opted for a mixed hors d’oeuvres starter, the chicken satay with peanut sauce was a particular favourite and unlike any I had tasted before. For our main course we had crispy beef and sweet & sour fish accompanied by vegetable chow mein and sides, all of which I would recommend. The food was full of flavour and freshly prepared.

To drink, we opted for the house white, a Sauv’ blanc, which was reasonably priced and certainly went down well!

If you’re looking for good authentic Chinese food then go no further. The food is delicious and the service superb.

14

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Bedfordshire’s Night Sky Looking Up! in April and May 2014 Scetch of Mars through a telescope.

Catch Mars At Its Best For 2014:

April and May this year is a great time to view Mars through a telescope. The Red Planet reaches opposition on April 8th, and so is at its biggest and brightest for 2014. In April look to the south east sky as soon as it gets dark for a bright orange coloured ‘star’. Through the evening Mars climbs higher into the sky and swings over towards the south. By May Mars can be found more than 30-degrees above the horizon towards the south in the late evening twilight. In a telescope you’ll see the Red Planet’s ice cap, and dark markings on the Martian surface. seb@darkskytelescopehire.co.uk

By Seb Jay

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Look high up to the east for your best view of the Shower.

Get A Glimpse Of Saturn In The Evening Sky:

Saturn follows Mars into the evening sky this year.

By Mid April the ringed planet is rising in the south east by 11pm. Come Mid May it is already 10-degrees above the south east horizon by the time it gets dark. In a telescope Saturn looks spectacular. You can see the planet’s rings, markings in Saturn’s atmosphere and some of the planet’s

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What’sBestForYou Martin

By Martin Lewis

LEWISRecover From Debt

This is a golden time for those in debt. While that may seem a strange thing to say, the best EVER deals for cutting loan, store or credit card costs are now on the market. So if you’ve existing debts, a little bit of action could save you £100s or £1,000s. comparison on any Ofgem-approved comparison site – Winter is coming. Don’t wait until you’re knee-deep in

Tackle your bills

just search for The Confidence Code at the white stuff to sort your bills. Here, prevention truly www.ofgem.gov.uk to see the full list. beats cure – tackling your bills now means you can take The aim is to cut the interest rate you pay, so more of You could, of course, find a 0% overdraft. Both First the financial bite out of winter chills… your repayments clear the debt rather than servicing the Direct and Nationwide offer this if you switch to them, If you're not online,offered use a comparison with a phone interest, so you're far quicker. but the amounts are usually limited.

Free loft insulation anddebt-free even boilers (for some). service, such as Energyhelpline on 0800 074 0745, or While the loft insulation free-for-all's ended, some will uSwitch on 0800 051 ALL 5493.DEBTS EQUALLY STOP BORROWING DON'T REPAY still be entitled to some serious free energy-saving Borrowing more just makes the problem costlier and Paying Attack the highest APR first. direct debit’s up to 6% energy bills by monthly measures. longer-lived. You can’t borrow your way out of debt.

Once your debts are as cheap as possible, list them all, cheaper.

The tips below are about getting new products, not borincluding overdrafts, in order of APR. Then focus every If you can, do, as it’ll usually mean discounted bills of up Mostrowing of the big six energy firms offer free boilers, more. penny on clearing the highest APR one as it grows fastso contact your provider to others. check. Though typically worth £2,000, and free insulation, usually worth to 6% est,less, just paying the minimum on the Once that's always domove regular meter aboutCREDIT £300. Crucially, you don't need to be with the & STORE CARD DEBT clear, to the nextreadings highest. for accuracy, as your bill is estimated. If it’s too high, you have a right to ask energyShift provider to get it, butIfyou do generally need an to 31mths 0%. you've debts on cards, do for The it tomore be lowered. income under £16,000, and to be on you income-related a balance transfer. This is where ask a new card you pay off, the better. If you just stick to to pay off debtscredit. on other cards, so you owe it instead, benefits or pension I can’t definitely say you’ll minimum you’ll take years or decades to be Got electricityrepayments, only? You can still save. hopefully a cheaper rate. Alternatively, the welldebt-free (they're designed so you just clear the interest). qualify, but it isatworth checking.

With electricity only, you can still get a cheap fix to save To get card, you must a credit score.

Usually The exception to the ‘highest APR first’ rule is loans with meaning buta stuttering Greenpass Deal initiative is designed just follow the info above. For those on Economy 7, the only way to find out is to apply, which marks your penalties for overpaying early. to let you pay for things like underfloor heating, double assessing is trickier. It’s only really a boon for those who file.

Tosolid get round that, find which card’s most likely glazing and wall insulation, from the 'savings' you to use at least of their energy you with free Eligibility www.mse.

SET UP40% A DIRECT DEBITat night. If not – don’t makeaccept on energy bills. my Deciding whetherChecker it’s rightatfor you bother.

Full help to decide at www.mse.me/eco7 me/eligibility This will help protect your credit score. Forget or make is complex, so for full help read Follow the balance transfer golden rules: late repayments and you Can you find your stopcock?risk losing 0% deals, being www.moneysavingexpert.com/greendeal a) Always repay at least the set monthly minimum, or and suffering hit on pipe your bursts credit score.

So setanup a No fined sniggering - winterafrozen can create lose special direct debit to cover at least the monthly minimum, then Save you £100s and beat rates. the hikes. average £7,000 of damage, often worsened as many b) surprisingly, Always plan fixing to shiftenergy, the debt againyou or fully manually pay more on top each month.

Rather where lockrepay in a set scrabble round searching for their stopcock - the mains 0% ends, cards' rates jump to 18.9% rate, before is now the cheaper thanora these normal switch.

Five of the big water off switch - for ages as their home floods. and 17.9% representative APR. GOT BOTH DEBTS AND SAVINGS? STOP! six energy providers have now announced hikes, and c) Don't spend on these cards – it's usually not at the £1,000 credit £180the a year, while the time to card find itdebt nowat–18% minecosts is under kitchen their best new prices are costlier than the cheapest fixed Take same cheap rate. the same find amount saved in top paying or savings sink.

Others theirs in the bathroom insideearns a just tariffs. So right now you can get the very cheapest deals £15 before tax. Ifisn’t you’re thinking I like cupboard.

If yours working, you“yes, maybut want to some call a available, andDEBT: it comes with no-hike certainty.

LOAN Can you cut the cost? spare cash”, this is often false security.

More at www. plumber now, before it’s a problem.

This is more difficult, as most old loans charge up to two mse.me/ClearDebtsWithSavings The only exception is aearly, variable (ie, needs subjectfactoring to months' interesttotothis repay which in.Choosing between heating and eating? hikes)It's tariff from minnow Energy – though it hasn't worth trying if youSpark can get a much lower APR loan If you're FREEseriously DEBT CRISIS HELP behind, or in general financial hardship hiked(ie, (yet?), upfront, andafeedback moreneeds than apaying fifth off) and have while left ain't to repay - asWhile tips above should help cut themay costbe ofeligible debt, far toomy many are after the hikes - you great,– so I’m ignoring it. credit score's improved since getting for for especially if your somehelp. people enough.

If you're on struggling special Callthat theisn’t Home Heat Helpline 0800 33to the loan. meet minimum repayments and basicwas bills, have to your check.

Plus if anyone in your home born on The cheapest fix comes from E.on for a year, but slightly 66 99 non-mortgage debts bigger thandue a year's salary, ortaxcan’t or before 5 January 1952, you're up to £300 in longer and only a touch more are deals from EDF or OVERDRAFTS/CATALOGUES: Shift to 0% freesleep for fuel worry, you're likely to be in debt crisis. winter payments.

Payments should be made Npower.

Crucially, these two have no exit penalties.

If you've a costly overdraft or need to put moneySo in a If so, ignore the options above and contact a non-profit automatically, but if you’ve never had it before then you on the off-chance Prime the price bank accountthe to pay off Minister cataloguedelivers debts, there’s a way to debt advice service that uses a different set of solutions, may need to register - see www.gov.uk. cuts he’s and use apromised, credit card forthe this.even more unlikely event such as StepChange (stepchange.org), Citizens Advice that they’ll be so substantial that let other tariffs'money elsewhere A few balance transfer cards newbies transfer'Plus(citizensadvice.org.uk) or National Debtline (nationalanyone on specific income support, jobseekers' are cheaper, free to leave. cash intoyou'll your be bank account, so you then owe the card allowances debtline.co.uk).

Don’t worry, to help, not or pension credit getsthey’re £25 inthere cold weather instead. judge. for every 7 days it's sub-0 C. payments However, always do the numbers for your own 20 circumstances. To check if you can save (you may be on

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In The Garden

Up The Wall

. jobs to be h... it w getting on Sow new lawns or repair bare patches.

Protect fruit blossom from late frosts.

If any of your plants need support this year, put the supports in now so the plants grow up through them.

Check any tree ties to make sure the tie is not cutting into the trunk. Loosen any that are tight to allow room to expand.

Once the soil has warmed up, weed borders and apply a moisture-retaining mulch such as compost or bark.

28

If your garden is short on space, rammed with plants, or you simply have an unsightly vertical surface to cover, climbing plants can be used to great effect: from clothing frameworks such as pergolas and arches to hiding sheds and even neighbours!

W

hether it’s as fast growing as a Triffid, a dainty floral twiner, or an evergreen clinger, I’m certain there’s a climber out there for you, it’s just a case of meeting your perfect match.

For those of you lucky enough to have a southfacing doorway, why not spoil yourself with the highly scented fragrance of Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides). Not only is it evergreen, but it boasts the added benefit of a claret-red leaf colour in autumn.

For those with a north-facing entrance, how about a plant combo starting with an early flowering Clematis tolerant of shade, such as ‘Frances Rivis’, followed by the stunning pink flowers of Rosa ‘Zephirine Drouhin’, perfect in shade with the added bonus of being a thornless variety.

If it’s a shady spot and a fast growing evergreen you require you really can’t beat Ivy, but I understand many people are not huge fans, so why not put in the extra effort and seek out a great alternative known as Pileostegia viburnoides. It’s a bit of a mouthful but not only is it evergreen, it will provide white flowers in summer and like Ivy is a self clinger, but nowhere near as vigorous.

As well as the other common examples, such as Wisteria (only plant this in full sun and if you are prepared to tie it in and prune it twice annually), Honeysuckle

and Pyracantha (great for deterring intruders due to its woody thorns), there is a whole range of other shrubs which can be grown against a wall or fence, not forgetting trees of course, such as the beautiful trained fruit trees we often see in Victorian walled gardens.

Shrubs planted at around 30cm away from the base of the wall or fence can be manually tied in and make excellent wall cover, often with the added benefit of flowers. Photinia ‘Red Robin’ for example, or Garrya elliptica make unusual evergreen wall coverings, and look great with a second flowering climber twining through. Don’t forget the huge variety of annuals available which you can grow from seed, such as Sweet Peas, Morning Glory, or maybe try climbing French beans as an edible wall covering?

Do ensure that you provide sturdy wires for plants to travel up. The best and most cost-effective way is simply to fix vine eyes (spaced horizontally around 2m apart) to the fence or wall and vertically at 30cm intervals. Then use a taught network of galvanised wires to provide support. Be sure to tie climbers in horizontally and not vertically as most people do … this way they will look great in your garden rather than flopping over the fence and delighting your neighbour. Now that really would drive me up the garden wall!

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Social Problems T

here is a joke doing the rounds which goes something like: The best thing about being a teen in the 1980s is that we made all our big mistakes before the internet was invented!

There is much truth in that.

When your teen tweets or posts a picture to Instagram, he or she probably doesn’t think about how it might affect her tomorrow, let alone how it might affect her chances of getting a job. The hard truth is, that what we send into cyberspace can be difficult to erase.

There have been some recent news stories about young people losing jobs, or not even getting an interview, based solely on what someone from the company has seen on their MySpace or Facebook page.

Many employers now use social media profiling to screen potential employees. Vetting a candidate's social media profiles can give employers an insight into someone’s personality, character or work ethic.

If your teen's profile is not set to 'private' it will be accessible to a potential employer and their content found through search engines like Google. This is true for Facebook, Twitter and

Instagram. It may be unfair and discriminatory but it happens, and even fairly innocuous material might be judged harshly by someone who doesn't know the person involved.

You can help by getting involved in your child's social media presence. Become familiar with the tools they use, and offer advice to save them from making mistakes which may be difficult to correct. The good news is that you can help your teen clean up their social media sites before they get ready to apply for joTake an afternoon to go through each social media profile and delete any inappropriate photos or comments. There are some software products which can help, like SimpleWash, though these generally don't apply to photos.

So does this mean you should stop your teen from using any social media? Most experts say that this isn't necessary. In fact a well-handled social media profile can be very beneficial. It allows young people to connect with those in the industry they’re trying to break into.

By engaging with other professionals they can show that they’re both Top tip serious and knowledgeable. from

the e keep xperts you profile r privat e!

• Keep just one social media profile where you post personal information.

• Make sure main profile photos and cover photos are conservative.

• If something is even slightly questionable, do not post it publicly.

• Be careful what you 'like' or comment on. If the person posting has a public profile your comment will be visible too.

• Make your public image one you'd be happy to show to anyone, even your great granny.

• Don't accept friend requests from people you don't know, or if you must, then put them on a 'restricted' list, but remember that privacy filters on social networking sites are subject to change and are not fail-safe. Check filters regularly.

30

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33

Mabel’s News

from Appledown

Hello again!

I am Mabel the resident dog at Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels in Eaton Bray. We are very e Spring is here at last as this is a good Rescuthat own pleased and scue Re ownof year time for people to decide to take on a canine Appled ring is here at Sp at th d se companion and we certainly have plenty to choose ea pl very ne ni ca on athrough no fault of their own, find takethat, Dogs cide to e to defrom! h ug ro gs that,athhome themselves without and are just waiting at se from! Do to choo waiting at stsomeone ju e ar d an e Appledown for to give them a second out a hom ppiness. happiness. chance of ha econd chance I would like to introduce you to one of them. This attractive young lady is Gabby, a three year old lurcher. She is a sensitive dog and would prefer a fairly quiet home. She is a fine with other dogs but would not be suitable for a home with cats or other small animals. er Gabby may need house-training but she is a bright girl and should learn quickly.mily and t for all the fa

y ou N – A great da sses. Show n dog show cla 10 fufeel nts anIfd you you could offer Gabby, or any of our other he day. dogs, a loving and secure home please call in at the Y kennels any day between and 4pm. Our staff LU6 1Q10am n Bray, Beds Eatobe Road, will happy to offer advice and information. Please . om .c internet @btthat kennels note we have restrictions on rehoming dogs to

16848)families with children under 7 years of age, so please

ask for details.

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

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

email: info@doggysleepover.co.uk

www.doggysleepover.co.uk

DOG GROOMING

Have a happier, healthier & visually stunning dog that looks good and feels great • Individual Requirements Catered For 21 years Experience • 17 • Designer Perfumes

FUN DOG SHOW

Sunday 18th May At Appledown A great day out for all the family and the dog!

Have-a-go dog agility, variety of stalls, refreshments and 10 fun dog show classes. Show opens 11am (classes commence 12 noon). Entries on the day.

Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels, Harling Road, Eaton Bray, Beds LU6 1QY Call 01525 220383 .

E-mail appledown.kennels@btinternet.com.

(Reg. Charity No. 1116848) 34

01525

214997

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Situated at Leighton Buzzard Garden Centre Hockliffe Road - Leighton Buzzard - Beds

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PLASTERING SERVICES

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35

Controlling Controlling and condensation condensation and mould in the home mould in the home ampness caused by excessive condensation can lead to

homes. Even our breathing adds moisture. Apparently one person half a pintadds of water to theApparently air during the homes.asleep Even adds our breathing moisture. one night.

(We recommend that you do not stop breathing !!!)the person asleep adds half a pint of water to the air during Tonight. give you idea of as to you howdomuch extrabreathing water this!!!)could (Wesome recommend that not stop beToingive a day, areidea a few examples: youhere some of as to how much extra water this could • be A bath or ahere shower 2 pints in a day, are a-few examples: • •Drying clothes indoors - 9 pints A bath or a shower - 2 pints • •Cooking and useindoors of a kettle 6 pints Drying clothes - 9 -pints mould growth on walls and furniture, mildewcan on lead clothes ampness caused by excessive condensation to • •Bottled gas heater (8 hours use) - 4 pints Cooking and use of a kettle - 6 pints and the rotting window frames … on clothes mould growthofonwooden walls and furniture, mildew If you have a condensation and mould problem • Bottled gas heater (8 hours use) - 4 pintsin your home, mould isand unsightly, damages property and can be detrimental the rotting of wooden window frames … whether you are a home owner or a landlord, we in areyour happy to tomould health.is unsightly, damages property and can be detrimental If you have a condensation and mould problem home, advise andyou willare provide whether a home owner or a landlord, we are happy to First steps against mould growth. We need to treat the mould to health. a advise free estimate any and willforprovide already present in your home, then deal with the basic problem First steps against mould growth. We need to treat the mould remedial work that may a free estimate for any ofalready condensation presenttoinstop yourmould home,reappearing: then deal with the basic problem be required. remedial work that may There are FOUR main factors thatreappearing: cause condensation: of condensation to stop mould be required.

1.There Too much moisture beingthat produced in the home are FOUR main factors cause condensation: Safe & Healthy Home 2.1.Not ventilation s can mend a garden Tooenough much moisture being produced in the home fen rep lacalt 3.2.Cold surfaces e hy a tap Sace fe, & or He shsow Not enough ventilation Ho pand intaing me caner,me de coce gaan rat, ing rdedn 4.3.The temperature or echaan fen geora sh replac ligow Cold surfaces of your home ht fitt tap ing aning d lot er, pa mo int re … ansd wh eth decorating or er You needtemperature to look at all ofofthese be 4. The yourfactors hometo cure a condensation aasm all chit job an ge or the lig ht fitt ing co mprelet and lots refurb problem. mo me …e wh ethish vojob er it You need to look at all of these factors to cure a condensation id pro bentaof smaall ple or pe ase therty … ca ll us for co mp a fre let Our everyday activities add extra moisture to the air inside our e e est refurbishment im problem. of ate a vo. id property … please call us for a fre Our everyday activities add extra moisture to the air inside our e estimate.

DD

• Painting & decorating Painting & decorating ••Small repairs & odd jobs Small electrics repairs & odd jobs ••Minor Minorplumbing electrics ••Minor Minorhome plumbing ••Minor adaptations Minor home adaptations ••Condensation & mould Condensation ••Garden tidying& mould •and Garden lots tidying more... and lots more...

36

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37

Consumer Clinic

By Jonathan Vernon-Smith

Would you like Any Cashback Today?

The internet has of course brought some unwanted problems, but it has also brought some incredible benefits to us consumers.

One of those benefits is the creation of ‘Cashback’ websites.

Gosh I love them! In fact, I frequently bore people senseless telling them about the important of logging on and saving ££££ on your purchases.

If you haven’t come across the likes of ‘Quidco’ or ‘TopCashback’ before, let me explain how they work.

You can listen to The JVS Show every weekday morning from 9am on BBC Three Counties Radio

Cashback websites pay you a cash fee when purchasing goods or services via their website.

The amount of cashback is generally a percentage of the total you spend with the retailer.

They tend to make their fee from the companies that they suggest on their site. Many of these are well known high street branches, some are lesser known retailers.

They normally transfer the cashback you’ve earned directly into your bank account as soon as they receive it. So it’s a win win for the consumer.

They also provide voucher codes for thousands of retailers so you can gain discounts at the online checkout.

All you have to do is:

1 2

Register with one or more cashback site.

When you decide you want to make an online purchase of a product or service, log into the cashback site, search the cashback rates available and follow the link to the company’s website.

38

3

Make the purchase, and wait for the cashback to arrive in your bank account (it normally takes at least a few weeks and should be tracked automatically).

Let me give you a couple of examples (chosen at random at the time of writing): It’s time to renew your car insurance. You get some online quotes and find that Tesco Insurance is offering you the best deal. You could of course just take out a policy with them directly on their website. That would be fairly silly though, because by going to Tesco Insurance via a cashback website, you would receive a cashback lump sum payment of £75 after completing the purchase. By going to them directly, you would have missed out on a £75 saving.

You need a new washing machine. You find one you like at Currys. Again, you could just purchase it directly on the Currys website, but by going via a cashback website like Quidco or TopCashBack, you would stand to make 2% cashback on

the total purchase price. That would be £8 back on a £400 washing machine. Better than a slap round the face with a wet fish eh?!

You can make additional money by referring your friends and relatives to the sites as well.

I always say that you don’t get anything in this world for free.

So how do the companies that offer the cashback benefit from this? Well, they gain because you’re more likely to buy from the retailers that are listed with those cashback sites.

The important thing is to remember to use the site. Whichever online purchase you need to make: flights, insurance, electrical goods, perfume, clothes, wine or groceries, always go via a cashback website and start saving. I always remember and since I started using cashback websites 2 years ago and have already made £237.38. So go get yourself some free cashback!

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3939

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.

Run by volunteeRs, we donate 100% of pRofits to chaRity Open Mon 9-3, Tues/Wed 9-12, Thurs/Fri 9-5, Sat 10-4 • 36 Market Square Toddington 40

in 10 su ye ran ar ce gu b ar ack an e te d e

WWW.CLADWINDS.COM

es tab lis he d

in

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• Conservatories • Windows • Doors • Aluminium Seamless Guttering • Garage Doors • Car Ports • GRP Flat Roofing

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Transform your home with beautiful new windows from Cladwinds. A trusted local firm with 29 years manufacturing and installing experience

visit your local showroom at Leighton Buzzard Garden Centre Leighton Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, LU7 9NX

Contact Peter Pascan 01525 404204 ppascan@btinternet.com www.thevinemagazine.com

41

Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles

    

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

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

Sudoku 数独 1 6

7

9 2 6

8 4 3

6

7

Crossword

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

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43

Out&About

BEER AND CIDER FESTIVAL Grove House Gardens Friday 30 May - 4pm to 11pm, Saturday 31 May - 12 noon to 11 pm Sunday 1 June - 12 noon to 5 pm.

Three day Beer Festival set in a closed off marquee in Grove House Gardens with entertainment all weekend. £3.50 on Friday and Saturday & £3 on Sunday.

CAMRA members are free.

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 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 44

• Clubs • Groups • Events • Community

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 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 10th April - Jewellery by design by Wendy & Andy Schriver 24th April - Priory Fabrics 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 Cadbury Easter Egg Trail

Daily from 18th April to 22 April 11am - 4pm £2 per ticket Join us for an exciting egg hunt with our sponsors Cadburys.

Complete our trail exploring the Downs and win a yummy Cadburys chocolate egg! There’ll be lots of family Easter fun happening too, all in the glorious surroundings of Dunstable Downs.

International Dawn Chorus Day Walk

4th May 4:30 am - 9:45 am £2 Witness one of the most beautiful things in nature!

International Dawn Chorus Day is the worldwide celebration of Nature’s daily miracle - the Dawn Chorus. Enjoy an early morning walking to the Whipsnade Tree Cathedral and back along Whipsnade Downs listening to bird song along the way. Our guide will talk you through the different birds that call the Downs home and help identify bird calls out of the glorious chorus.

Butterfly walk

17th & 24th May 11am - 1pm £2 Join the countryside team on an informative guided walk to look for the butterflies that thrive on the rare chalk grassland of Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade.

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.

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 April 3rd A Thousand Miles up the Amazon Jean Yates, Dunstable Town Guide April 17th Law and Order in Dunstable - Tony Woodhouse, Dunstable Town Guide May 1st Medieval Physic Garden, herbs treat, dye and eat - Deborah Bird, Garden Designer May 15th China and the Terracotta Warriors Jean Yates, Dunstable Town Guide May 29th The Great War; Animals the forgotten heroes - Ann Ledger, Dunstable Town Guide ST GEORGES DAY Saturday 19 April Priory House Gardens, 10am to 4pm Free St. George’s Day event with entertainment for all of the family!

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

BEDFORDSHIRE NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY Date for your diary!

Sunday 18 May Family Day at Jordans Mill nr Biggleswade Displays, nature walks, craft activities, bughunting & lots more.

More details on website soon www. bnhs.org.uk For more information contact Mary Sheridan 01525 378245 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 There will be a Spring Dinner at Dunstable Downs Golf Club during April.

Tel: Monica 01582 667030 or Barbara 01582 606300 DUNSTABLE LADIES CHOIR Ladies - new members are welcome to join our choir. If you enjoy singing why not come to a Tuesday evening rehearsal from 7.30-9.30pm at Houghton Regis Baptist Church, Hammersmith Gardens LU5 5RG and give us a try. No audition necessary. We also have a lively social life including meals out, get-togethers and trips to concerts and shows.

Dunstable Ladies Choir Spring Concert: do join us at 7.30pm on Saturday 17th May at St Augustine’s Church, Mayfield Road, Dunstable for a lively programme of music for all the family. Tickets available on the door, priced £8.00, including homemade refreshments at the interval.

Further details from Pat Jackson 01582 520302.

HOUGHTON REGIS BOWLS CLUB Open day on the 4th may from 11am to around 4pm The only thing needed is flat soled shoes.

All ages and abilities are welcome.

Children over 12 years must be accompanied by a parent please.

Light refreshments will be available.

Please come and have a go, look forward seeing you all, any enquiries please ring me on 01582518645

www.thevinemagazine.com

DANESBOROUGH CHORUS SPRING CONCERT ROMANTIC HARMONY FOR EASTER Spring birdsong will be complemented by Spring harmony in two Romantic performances at the next Danesborough Chorus concert at 7.30pm on Saturday 5 April in St Mary’s Church, Woburn. The choir will perform Liszt’s Missa Choralis and Dvorak’s Mass in D in a concert conducted by Ian Smith. Providing expert accompaniment, organist John Witchell - who recently appeared in BBC TV series Great Railway Journeys with Michael Portillo - will also perform Liszt’s intriguingly-titled Fantasy and Fugue on the Theme B-A-C-H. “Musically, both Liszt and Dvorak belong to the Romantic era, and they were also noted primarily as instrumental composers” said Ian Smith. “However, this concert will demonstrate their outstanding skills as masters of choral composition. Whatever the weather, come prepared to be wrapped in a warm blanket of vocal harmony!”

A prolific composer, Hungarian Franz Liszt was a gifted pianist and attracted a huge following of fans as he toured Europe. However, the 1860s were a time of personal despondency for him, and he went to a monastery near Rome. His spiritual turmoil led him to compose Missa Choralis there in 1865, a work inspired by the music of Palestrina and his use of plainsong. This setting of the Latin Mass is largely unaccompanied and exudes contemplative peace and unexpected harmonies.

Antonin Dvorak was a devout Catholic, attending Mass throughout his life. His Mass in D was commissioned for the opening of the private chapel of his friend Josef Hlavka, a distinguished Prague architect, in 1887. It conjures up, as one critic said, “the atmosphere of the Czech countryside: not a stately ritual ceremony .... but the spirit of a smiling, pleasant region of hills and woods, ... the expression of the wisdom and security of his native land.”

Tickets for the concert are £18 and £14 (reserved) and £10 (unreserved), and the price includes a free concert programme. For tickets, call the Box Office, tel: 01908 583460, or visit website www.danesborough.org.uk.

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