The Vine, Villages February March 2013 Issue 6 by The Vine Magazine

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Issue 6

Connecting local people to local businesses

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• Edlesborough • Eaton Bray • Totternhoe • Toddington • Harlington • Hockliffe • Stanbridge • Tilsworth • Eggington • Tebworth

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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.

Copy deadline for our next issue - 15th March 2013

This Month... Totternhoe Castle Town At The Crossroads It’s Christmas Valentines Day Easter Gung Hei Fat Choi A Travellers Tale What’s Best For You Aged Concerns In The Garden Auto-biographies Technology - Laptops The Nutrition Coach Natural Health Hair & Beauty Puzzles Out & About

6 8 8 10 12 14 16 20 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 42 44

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Wildlife Trust

1st Toddington Guides

There is a whole world to discover on your doorstepwith your local Wildlife Trust in 2013 Here are some of your up and coming events for February and March this year·

A Talk On Education And Community On Blows Downs Nature Reserve

Come and find out about the importance of education and community work and the differences it makes to Blows Downs Event: Indoor Talk Booking: Essential Date: Monday 11 Feb 2013 Time: 7.45pm – 9.15pm Location: Priory Middle School, Britain St, Dunstable, LU5 4JA. Meet in the Dome Price: Donations gratefully accepted Audience: Adult

A Free Event For Youth Wildlife Rangers

Event: Fun Outdoor Activity for 13 - 19 Yr Olds Booking: Essential Date: Wednesday 20 Feb 2013 Time: 1.00pm – 3.00pm Location: Blows Downs Nature Reserve, Dunstable. Meet at Oakwood Avenue

Blows Down Litter Pick

Come and help the Blows Downs Conservation Group to keep your local nature reserve looking beautiful Event: Outdoor Activity Date: Sunday 17 March 2013 Time: 10am – 3pm Location: Blows Downs Nature Reserve, Dunstable. Meet at the Half Moon Lane entrance Price: Free. Turn Up On The Day Audience: Everyone Welcome Children must be accompanied by an adult

Community Open Day

Come along and find out more about your local nature reserve at Blows Downs Event: Activities for Adults & Kids Date: Sunday 24 March 2013 Time: 10am – 3pm Location: Blows Downs Nature Reserve, Dunstable. Meet near to the Half Moon Lane entrance Price: Donations gratefully accepted Audience: Everyone Welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For information Tel Ruth Sneath: 01525 874317 Email: ruth.sneath@wildlifebcn.org

Chloe Randell, Hannah Randell and Charlotte Ridley received their Baden Powell Awards on December 13th. The awards which are the highest that can be gained in the Guide section of Girlguiding were presented by County Commissioner Debbie Docherty (pictured with the girls). To gain these awards the girls spent over a year working on different badges, community projects and organising unit events. They also spent a weekend in London at Guide Headquarters taking part in a Baden Powell Adventure with other girls from around the U.K. Toddington Guides are a vibrant unit and we have a fun and varied programme. Last term girls entered the district craft competition, performed plays for the performing Arts badge, went sledging at the Snozone in Milton Keynes and had a sleepover at the guide building. Also Christmas parcels were delivered to senior citizens in the village. We also go camping, hiking and have cookouts! Guides are aged 10 -14 and open to anyone regardless of whether they have been a Brownie. For more information on joining please contact me on 873932. Christine Baker, Leader, 1st Toddington Guides.

Local acts wanted to perform at Dunstable music events

Are you a singer or in a band? Would you like the chance to perform in front of hundreds of people? Then apply to perform at Party in the Park on 20 July or Dunstable Rocks on 31 August in Grove House Gardens, Dunstable. We are accepting applications for a slot on our stage during these events. We are looking for a mix of music and acts to complete our line up. Cllr Liz Jones, Chairman of Community Services Committee says “Party in the Park and Dunstable Rocks is a fantastic way for local acts to showcase themselves. Dunstable Town Council supports local music and wants to promote the talent that Dunstable Has.” If you are interested in applying then please e-mail lisa.vincent@dunstable.gov.uk or ring for further details on 01582 891406.

Celebrate 50 Years with us

“ Juggling a career and being a mum is challenging. Jazzercise is my time for ME! It’s fun and the hour flies by. I love setting a good example of a fit lifestyle for my daughters”

Ann

Saturday 27th April 2013

www.jazzercise-uk.com

Open School 12 – 4.30pm – Free Entry – to include Guided tours

For details ring Angela

50 years of Photographs

Memorabilia (school work – written and practical)

01525 715208

Recorded memories (past and present pupils) Displays of the decades

Old Uniform

PE displays

www.jazzerciseClasses in

Music ensemble (past and present pupils) Refreshments on sale

Dunstable, Luton & Eaton Bray

Souvenir Programmes on sale And much more !

(Please contact us if you have any memorabilia we can borrow or can offer us any help – Katie Perch 07817317241 katie.perch@sky.com)

Hog Roast and Memories Disco

7pm to 11.30pm

Dancing through the decades Licensed Bar Tickets to go on sale in February

See our Facebook page for class details

Raffle

(N.B. there will no access to the school other than the main halls during the evening) For regular updates and information – www.facebook.com/parkfieldsis50

facebook.com /jazzercise.dunstablelutoneatonbray

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otternhoe Castle The Totternhoe Knoll is one of our better known landmarks, partly due to itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prominence in the surrounding countryside. This prominence would most likely have played a large part in the decision to use the knoll as the site for a Norman Castle, or to be more accurate a Motte and Bailey. This type of building was a very effective, and cheap, form of Medieval fortification. They normally consisted of a mound or hill with a ditch and defended enclosures. Totternhoe was thought to be one of the strongest Norman Castles at itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time of erection, during the 12th century, and with three buildings surrounded by wooden palisade it would have been an impressive sight. The inner baileys would have been used for agricultural purposes of growing crops or for grazing livestock.

On top of the Motte or Mound there would have been a wooden tower, which would most likely have been on stilts to give itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inhabitants a clear view of the surrounding terrain, and the local lord would have lived in relative comfort within this defended tower. In later years, many of these towers were replaced by stone structures but there is no evidence of this at Totternhoe. With the recent clearing of undergrowth on the Motte, it has become much more visible allowing us to imagine what it would have looked like in the distant past. So when you drive through the early evening traffic along the A5, look up to the Knolls and imagine the smoke from the campfires blowing over the tower and see the sheep grazing in the lower baileys. It must have been truly magical. By Darren Keep

18 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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Dunstable

The Town At The Crossroads - Part VByByPaul PaulHeley Heley

nance of - the church we have have been rolling in it! s has already been today (which thereby became Their immaculately presented said, the original Dunestaple’s parish church). and beautifully illustrated Frachurch of 1213 (built Thanks to this agreement, it ternity Register is preserved in in the Romanesque alone was spared during the the Victoria and Albert Museum style) was very different from Dissolution of the Monasteries together with the funeral pall the one rebuilt in 1240 (in the in the 1530s when Henry 8th given by Henry and Agnes Gothic style) following the disaspermitted parish churches to Fayrey c1500. This is a most trous year of 1222. And this one, remain. ornately worked crimson and in turn, was very different to the But what is left is only a small purple velvet cover overlaying a one we see today. percentage of the original Priory cloth of gold. The Register and Apart from having elaborate with its outbuildings and church the Fayrey pall make up two of external towers and turrets, the (roughly twice today’s length). Dunstable’s priceless treasures. original church interior was also However, we should be thankful Hangover question: Do we have much higher since its triforium for small mercies. any idea what Fraternity memdesign meant a third level. In the late 1400s - horror of horbers might have looked like? Furthermore, there were no ror! - the uppermost level was The Fraternity clearly did much windows other than small ones again in “a ruinous state” and to help the community but, in this uppermost level - putting another 1222 roof collapse was perhaps, it wasn’t all due to pure holes in walls at lower levels threatened. But the agreement altruism on their parts. I don’t was regarded as simply asking struck 100 years earlier said wish to sound too cynical here for trouble - and there was no that the town had to pay for any but it must be remembered that, floor covering (maybe some repairs; and these required the in the Middle Ages, people (from straw or rushes). Other than a removal of this 20 foot topmost the King down) were terrified few benches around the walls storey and the lowering of the over Purgatory, ie that decision there were no seats either; so roof to its present level: a very making period after death during everybody These / Ehad -maitol: stand. maiold, lthev which the passage upstairs might benches were for the the ine@yahimpressive oo.co.uk feat of engineering Please menti be delayed (and/or conditions considering the date. sick and the infirm who were on The Vine when reifsp Question: Who paid? ie was made unpleasant) one’s life allowed to “go to the wall” - a ondin g to there a general whip round, had been less than exemplary. adver phrase we still use today. or was it thanks to a few good People were desperate to colIt must have been really dark souls? lect as many “brownie points” and gloomy inside and, to cap Answer: The generosity of those as possible in order to secure leaseand it all, the P Prior canons men tion Tdehe to Vine who, in 1442, had formed a quick path to Heaven and so manded that ordinary had when responfolk Plethe aseDunstable dinNorth m g to advert en themselves into time came, they squeeze into the narrow ti o n T he Vthat, s ine when the whSt. enJohn respthe Fraternity of (a ad la ve Tony rtisHancock) Aisle - the rest of this enormous on2dBaptist. 2ing to advecould sayTo e call: 01525 rts you are, mate, sort Their mission was to do “good “there that lot 22 set of buildings was “out of 07988 13 work” within the town and to out”! So, with this goal in /mind, bounds” to the hoi-polloi. care for poor travellers and for they led (outwardly) pious lives, Together with various other those members who had fallen did good deeds, supported their niggles, this didn’t go down at on hard times. Membership conchurch, went on pilgrimage, etc, all well with the townsfolk sisted of wealthy businessmen etc. many of whom were important and their wives. Even though the The established Church, of people in the wider business lowering of the roof must have course, thought Purgatory was a world. However, and after much cost an arm and a leg, there was great idea since it enabled them argument, an agreement was still enough left in the piggy to keep total control over the reached in 1392 whereby the bank to have their own chaplain common herd by means of this town would be given access to and to start a school. They must all pervasive fear of the afterlife. - but would pay for the mainte8

a la Tony Han e, they cock) “there mate, sort th you are, at lot out”! So, with this mind, they le goal in d (outwardly ) pious lives, deeds, suppo d id good rted their ch urch, went o age, etc, etc. n pilgrimThe Eleanor Cross in Dunstable Th establish replaced by this ed Churchas P.S. In answer to elast h, been of couwhich ga rse, th tory can was a great id monument oubeghfound month’s hangover question t Purea si n ce in Eleanors Cross shopping ke it en ep able total contro asking why our Eleanor d them to l o ve precinct r the off mea coHigh mmoSt.nNorth. ns of on Cross no longer stands this all perva sive fear of th herd by PS In answer Dunstable’s crossroads... e afterlife. to last month ’s hangover q asking why o uestion u r Eleanor Cro The answer isothat it was ss no longer n Dunstable’s stands knocked down by Parliamen- crossroad s, the answer as kduring nockedthedow tary forces in w 1643 is that it n by Parliam entary forces English Civil 16 War. 43 during th in e English Civ These forcesThated il War. hese anyforces hated thing elaborate or decoraanything elab orate or dec tive which they felt to be o“papist” - or, somehow, non Protestant - so they destroyed it. Unfortunately, religious intolerance and gross bigotry (as experienced in many parts of the world even today) is nothing new.

gious intoler bigotry (as ex perienced in man world even to day) is nothin g new

Eleanors Geddingt Only th Crosses can be fou lage of Northampt village of H Northampto the town Cross, Hertf Eleanors Cross, Geddington.

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Valentines Day 14th February

The Food of Love They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, so why not experiment with some tempting titbits this Valentine’s Day? In Japan feeling flirty can become – quite literally – a matter of life or death! Puffer fish is considered to be a great delicacy and an aphrodisiac, but it contains a poisonous gland that is deadly and must be removed before eating! A safer seafood option is the oyster. A favourite with the Romans some oysters are able to change sex repeatedly and so are said to give you the ability to experience the male and female sides of love. For a sophisticated saucy snack you can’t go wrong with asparagus. Served with hollandaise sauce and washed down with champagne it’s sure to pep things up. And do you know where the term ‘honeymoon’ comes from? In Medieval times newlyweds drank mead – a fermented drink made with honey – to sweeten their marriage. But I reckon the ultimate palate pleaser has got to be chocolate. Described by the Aztecs as ‘nourishment of the Gods’, it contains both a relaxing sedative that lowers inhibitions and a stimulant to perk you up. Even better is the news that it is more effective when combined with that other an- tioxidant, red wine – but don’t have too much, or your suitor may become a snorer!

Men, Say It With

Flowers

Lots of men will be heading off to florists this month but have you ever wondered why we give flowers? The Victorians were a rather coy bunch not given to brazen declarations of love, so a whole language sprang up around flowers and plants with special meanings attached to each variety. The language was called floriography. So flowers could be used to express almost any sentiment and in combination they could convey a whole range of emotions.

Try saying it with flowers this Valentine’s Day with our handy guide. 10 8

A simple arrangement for

Mother’s Day Sunday 10th March

This arrangement is childproof, so give it a go! You will need a bunch or two of small flowers such as spray carnations or freesias. The flowers will only cost £3-£5 from a supermarket; a few stems of rosemary twigs (try the herb section in the supermarket) or similar foliage from the garden; enough ribbon to go around the neck of the jar and tie in a bow; some string or garden twine. Wash enough pretty, small shells or stones to quarter fill a clean clear glass jar. Select one of your flowers and cut it so the stem is about twice the height of the jar. The next flowers should be slightly shorter. Holding the long flower in one hand, make a ring of shorter flowers around it. Next, circle with foliage, cut slightly shorter. Repeat until you run out of flowers. Loop the twine a couple of times around the stems and tie a knot. Don’t squeeze the stems - they should be able to move a little. Trim the bottom of the stems with a diagonal cut (they last longer this way) so they are all the same length and place the arrangement in the jar. Jiggle, so the stems are held in place by the shells. Tie the ribbon in a bow around the neck of the jar. If the flowers came with a sachet of food, make this up following the instructions and fill the jam jar. Keep the rest of the water in a sealed container and use to top up the flowers every day. Several children? Use different sizes and shapes of jar and different flowers in each, or mix together. Display the jars in a group.

The Meaning Of Flowers

Red rose Passionate love White rose Eternal love or innocence Pink rose Perfect happiness or please believe me Orchid Love, beauty and refinement Apple Blossom Preference, good fortune Begonia Beware! Bluebell Humility Pink carnation I’ll never forget you Yellow carnation Disdain, rejection Iris Faith hope and wisdom Ivy Fidelity Primrose I can’t live without you or young love

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Easter An Egg-cellent Idea Whatever the weather, children of all ages will love an Easter egg hunt. Try one of these ideas and have a cracking good time! • For a simple hunt, put plastic eggs around the house or garden that children have to collect to win a prize, or hide small chocolate eggs them to collect in a basket.

hocolate comes from the Aztec word ‘xocolatl’, meaning bitter water. Originally it was consumed as a drink made from cacao beans, chillies, achiote and cornmeal. Emperor Montezuma drank 50 golden goblets every day!

H O

itchcock used chocolate syrup for

blood in the famous 45 second shower scene in his movie Psycho.

for

• Add clues to make the search a bit harder. Alternatively, create a treasure map and mark each egg with an X. • Young children will enjoy following a trail of paper bunny footprints, or a long piece of string to reach their prize. • Add a fun educational twist using numbered cardboard egg shapes – children can collect odd or even numbers, or get the highest total to win a prize. You could also put the letters of an Easter-themed word on the shapes and challenge them to solve the anagram. • Set up an ‘obstacle’ hunt. To win each egg, children have to complete a challenge, such as doing ten star jumps, singing a nursery rhyme, or completing a craft activity. • If you have a mixed group of children, prepare individual checklists so they each find only what is on their list and no more – for example, two chocolate bunnies, three silver eggs and four fluffy chicks.

Choccy Facts

ver 66 percent of the world’s cacao is produced in Africa. The US consumes the most chocolate per year, but the Swiss consume the most per capita.

olumbus brought the cocoa bean to Europe, but Cortez first realised its commercial value. With the addition of cane sugar the chocolate drink became very popular, but it wasn’t until 1842 that the first chocolate bar was produced by Cadbury.

ne unfortunate Bishop was poisoned by chocolate-addicted parishioners because he tried to ban its consumption during church services.

argest and longest records go to Nestle for creating the largest cup of hot chocolate (2,400 litres) in November 2010, and to Mirco Della Vecchia for producing the longest chocolate bar measuring 15.9m a year later.

A T E

phrodisiacal qualities are believed by many to be contained in chocolate.

horntons produced the world’s biggest chocolate bar (six tonnes of it!) in October 2011 to celebrate its 100th birthday.

nergy-seeking Napoleon always carried chocolate with him to use as a pick-meup whenever he needed a boost.

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St. Patrick’s Day ~ 17th March 2013 ~

Gung Hei Fat Choi (That’s Happy New Year!)

Chinese New Year is on 10th February 2013

hinese New Year is the biggest celebration of the year for Chinese people around the world. In China, the festival is marked by a three-day public holiday. Also called the Spring Festival, it is a special time for families to get together, and millions of people travel home from their places of work or study. Chinese people prepare for the New Year celebrations by cleaning their houses from top to bottom. The idea is to clear away any bad luck and make way for good luck in the year ahead. People also buy new clothes and have their hair cut. They decorate their homes with red and gold paper decorations and lights. Red is a lucky colour in China, while gold represents wealth. Debts must be paid off before the end of the year, otherwise it is said that you will be short of money in the following year. People also bring plants and fruit trees into their homes, especially kumquat plants and peach blossom. On New Year’s Eve, families gather together for a celebratory feast. They eat sticky rice dumplings to bring good luck and happiness. It is a time to be thankful for the year that is ending and to remember family members who have died. At midnight, the doors and windows of the house are opened to let the old year out and firecrackers are set off. The next day, friends and families exchange gifts of food, flowers and sweets. Children are given money in red paper envelopes. There are fireworks and elaborate lion and dragon dances featuring beautifully coloured costumes and puppets. People try to forget grudges and wish peace and happiness to everyone. The date of the New Year is calculated using the lunar calendar and can fall any time between late January and the middle of February. A complete cycle of the lunar calendar lasts 60 years and consists of five cycles of 12 years. Each of the 12 years is named after a different animal – rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, ram, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. Legend has it that Buddha asked all the animals on earth to join him for a party. Only 12 turned up, and as a reward, he named a year after each one in the order they arrived. Each animal has certain characteristics which people born in that year are said to share. 2013 will be the Year of the Snake. People born in this year are said to be romantic, wise and charming. They are good at making and saving money, but can be stingy. Famous snakes include Audrey Hepburn, Bob Dylan and Brad Pitt!

What are you doing on March 17th this year? You probably don’t have a clue, but if you are of Irish descent chances are that you will be donning green attire and tucking into a plateful of bacon and cabbage! The date is St Patrick’s Day, commemorating the death of Ireland’s patron saint on 17th March 461. Patrick was born in Roman Britain to a wealthy Christian family - his father was a deacon and his grandfather a priest. He was kidnapped and held captive by Irish raiders at the age of sixteen, but eventually escaped; following which he received a vision and calling to return to Ireland to preach Christianity to its heathen population. So it is that St Patrick is credited with taking Christianity to Ireland. Patrick used the three leaves of the native Irish shamrock to teach the doctrine of the Trinity. Nowadays, the shamrock and green clothing are customarily worn on St Patrick’s Day. Traditionally, Irish families mark the day by attending church in the morning and celebrating in the afternoon. The festival includes public parades, processions, concerts, outdoor theatre and fireworks – all designed to celebrate all things Irish! So, if you find yourself at a loose end on 17th March, why not look up your local Irish centre and join in the festivities?!

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A Travellers Tale By Paul Heley

Over The Top And Round The Corner (Part I)

wo or three years ago, a brochure landed on my doormat advertising a trip up the Norwegian fjords, round Nordkapp and then into the White Sea. Although we'd previously been to the southern fjords, we'd never been all the way to the top before - and never into Russia. It was up to us to arrange our Russian visas - and this is an example of the bureaucracy of closed minds. And, to add insult to injury, it's by no means cheap. But eventually, they came through! The cruise started from Leith and we were picked up at Edinburgh and transported to the ship ready to sail out that evening for Lerwick in the Shetland Islands. By now, it had started to rain and we arrived in Lerwick ("Bay of Clay" in Old Norse) next afternoon to a damp and overcast welcome. After a whirlwind coach trip round Lerwick, we were taken to the Jarlshof Neolithic/Bronze Age remains which, I'm sure, would be most impressive under sunshine and blue skies. Shetland shows its Norwegian heritage: for example, its flag is a blue Scandinavian cross on a white background and many dialect words from Old Norse are in everyday use. There are also reminders of WW2 and of the "Shetland 'Bus" when people and provisions were secretly ferried back and forth between Norway and Shetland during those dark days. We sailed out early evening heading for Bergen and arrived next lunchtime. Mercifully, the rain had stopped, and in the afternoon we visited Edvard Grieg's home and 16

museum followed by a piano recital of some of his music. Very posh! Bergen is Norway's second city and started life as a fishing village in the 11th century but later achieved great fame as a Hanseatic sea port in the 14th century. Many of the original gabled wooden buildings in older parts of town may still be seen. The weather turned dull and misty again and when we reached Olden, it was pouring. But British stiff upper lip demanded we go on another coach trip to the famous tourist honeypot of Briksdal Glacier. After disembarking, the uphill trek to the glacier was an endurance test in itself. The glacier was nothing startling, but thanks to the heavy rain and melting ice, the many waterfalls - and one in particular - put on a splendid show. Afterwards, a mass of extremely soggy passengers returned to the ship in time to leave for Alesund in the late afternoon. Fortunately, the weather improved overnight and after arriving next morning, we were taken on a walking tour of the town famous for its art nouveau architecture. This had come about literally by accident in 1904 when the town - originally built of wood - was completely destroyed by fire. The town planners decided to rebuild the town in the currently fashionable art nouveau style - most unusual. Alesund was involved with the Shetland 'Bus previously mentioned, and our guide was an elderly gent. Asked if he ever took German tourists around, he replied No and, tapping his head, said "it's still in here". Alesund is a pleasant little town made more so by sunshine and also by the fact that school marching bands from around a very large area had congregated for an annual festival. The musical standard was surprisingly high and was compli-

mented by smart and individual matching uniforms. There is a statue to the great grandfather of William the Conqueror, ie Rollo, who originally came from here. This illustrates that the word "Norman" really means "Norse man", ie a descendent of Vikings. Leaving Alesund early afternoon, we headed further north into more sunshine. Our next landing was the island Torghatten - part of the legend ridden Troll Mountains. Its unusual profile is like a porkpie hat with a large hole through it from one side to the other halfway up. Although there's a geological explanation, folklore says that a Troll king threw his hat into the path of an arrow fired by an irate swain when the king's daughter refused to marry him. Choose which explanation you prefer! The landing was by zodiac followed by a stiff trek of about a mile up to the hole. One of the "larger" passengers gasped "I don't normally do UP" - a sentiment for which I had considerable sympathy! Later that afternoon we crossed the Arctic Circle and celebrated with aquavita (Norwegian firewater). No more darkness now! And then next morning:- the Lofoten Islands. These had been on my "must see" list for years. We moored off the fishing village of A (pronounced Or) and went ashore by zodiac. Its economy was once exclusively based on cod fishing but now, tourism makes it 50:50. But there were still stands of drying cod all over the village. At the museum, we were told about the former way of life and saw some of the very small, open rowing boats which the fishermen used during the dark, cold, winter months when the cod were running. They must have bred 'em tough in those days!

A Travellers Tale

(Continued)

After lunch, another fishing village, Nusfjord. Somewhat bigger and prettier than A, its economy had also been fishing originally and it was interesting to learn that the various colours still seen on the buildings were based upon original different costs of paint, ie the houses of (former) ordinary fishermen are red (which was cheap) whilst shops and commercial buildings are yellow. However, because white paint was very expensive, the large, grand, "posh" house in the village was painted white. Sometimes a Lofoten houseowner couldn't afford to paint his whole house white so only the side which faced the sea was white! Later that night - and still in daylight - we passed through Trollfjord. This passage is restricted to smaller ships since it is extremely narrow. Going through, it felt as though we must surely scrape the steep sides. And this made the whole experience somewhat awe inspiring. The ship docked at Tromso early next morning amidst wall to wall blue sky and sunshine. A large city by northern

standards - it has a population in excess of 50,000 - it is the capital of northern Norway. We were welcomed by a lone saxophonist playing excerpts from Grieg, folk tunes and dances together with a dozen or so primary school children carrying a single rose for each passenger. A very nice gesture. There followed a coach trip around the city with a visit to the botanical gardens (the plants survive thanks to the Gulf Stream), the polar museum and the very modern Arctic Cathedral. Thereafter we just wandered around the city centre and were knocked out by how expensive everything is. After our quick look at this most impressive city it was time to set sail for the North Cape and get our Russian papers in order. A lecture that evening gave us fair warning of what to expect in Murmansk. But there was to be yet another gloriously warm and sunny day ahead during which we anchored off the small island of Storstappen. An early zodiac trip took us round this island

which is home to three million nesting sea birds such as puffins, cormorants, gannets, razorbills, guillemots, kittiwakes amongst others. We were also privileged to see a few of the huge white tailed sea eagles being mobbed by gangs of much smaller birds - clearly an example of strength (and bravery) in numbers! Then to the northernmost point of mainland Europe. But this claim is disputed since the one that everybody knows - the precipitous Nordkapp (North Cape) - is in fact marginally beaten in terms of latitude by a low lying promontory called Knivskjelodden . What is more, both these points are on an island so another spot (Cape Nordkinn slightly to the east) claims to be the real northernmost point on the European mainland. It's all very confusing but the 307 metre (almost 1000 feet) high North Cape is definitely the most spectacular and at just over 71 degrees north is everyone's favourite. Then, on the morrow, Murmansk and our first experience of "laugh-aminute" Russia! (To be continued)

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Mabel’s News

I am Mabel the resident dog at Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels in Eaton Bray. Over the Christmas/ New Year period we had a lot of new arrivals and it seems particularly sad that so many dogs are abandoned and discarded at this time of year. At Appledown Rescue, we give the dogs the care they need until they find a loving home. As you can imagine having so many dogs to look after is very expensive so we are always thinking of ways to raise money. Please can you help our dogs by supporting the following events?

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Pensioners A . .. s n r e c ged Con

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Tell Us What Is A Better Off Pensioner?

hat does the present day government mean by the term “better off pensioner”. At what annual income is a pensioner considered well off? We shall probably have to wait for the next general election manifestos to find an answer. "Older people must shoulder their fair share of spending cuts" say Tory MP Nick Bowles. "Rubbish!" say I. We paid into a National Insurance Fund to look after us in old age. We expect to get what was promised to us. Some of us who were more fortunate took out annuities and personal insurance to further help us in retirement to keep up a reasonable standard of living and I would suggest to Mr Bowles MP that we also paid tax on these pensions and annuities during our working life and still have tax deducted at source now we are using such additional pensions. It would be quite true to state that a UK citizen is paying taxes from the time work is started until death and still the government, no matter what their political colour, cannot make the sums realized meet the monetary requirements of the UK. Might I also suggest that MP's perhaps should show us a lead by cutting their salaries and expenses, if we are expected to live on less, then so should they. When it come to MP's we are certainly not "in it together". I am quite proud to say I am “working class” (a plebian, if you like) but I do not wish to be told that (I might be) I am a wealthy pensioner. Because it really is not true, this

By Mike Newman

applies to millions of us. Who might be expected to pay prescription charges if MP Nick Bowles has his way. Just at the time of life where the use of more medicines are needed to assist you keeping relatively well. We all know, or should know, that in the ever increasing cost of living your 2013 pension will be increased by £2.50 a week, enough to buy a couple of loaves of bread? Yet we are told we are not paying our share of the deficit burden? A deficit which was not of our making. A telling remark, from Mr Bowles, of what you should be aware "We need to acknowledge now that we will not be able to continue the protection of these other benefits for “better off” pensioners after 2015", (general election year). Well, there you have it. I wonder if the party manifestos will tell us what a “better off” pensioner is. Although there again. A manifesto relates to what a political party would like to do, they really are not promises, they invariably are broken in a very short time. I would suggest what the pensioner would wish to see would be cast iron, proven facts on how the manifesto promise could be kept. Perhaps we should demand such information is made available before we vote? Surely the days of touching your forelock and muttering "Gawd ‘elp us guv’nor" went the way of the workhouse? Some present day thinking might suggest to the pensioner that such thoughts of cheating the pensioner of their dues is fair game? BEWARE"!

Mike Newman is a member of The Dunstable And District Senior Citizens Club. If you have a view on any of the issues raised why not attend one of their monthly meetings, held on the last Thursday of the month at St Marys Catholic Social Club, West St., Dunstable.

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In The Garden

By Sue Lovell

10 Facts You Always Wanted To Know!

Wriggle Wriggle

A new dance craze perhaps? Well maybe … if you’re a worm that is!

In my opinion, worms have to be the unsung heroes of the garden. They only eat what I don’t want, they tidy up leaves from the borders by dragging them down into the soil, and who else improves our soil structure by adding air holes, incorporating organic matter en route and even provides food for the birds (sorry worms!), all for free?

tato (I’ve heard that for worms these foods are like us eating oyster....they erm… put them in the mood for a little wriggle wriggle), cardboard and paper. My wormery is a multi- tray system. You start off feeding your food waste into the bottom tray. At the bottom of the trays above there are holes which allow the worms to transfer themselves to the next level and as each tray fills, the worms move upwards to the waste in the next tray, leaving compost behind. They are voracious As far as I’m aware, garden worms eaters and it’s not long before the don’t have their own ‘worm awareness week’, they just carry on doing next tray is needed. You can harvest the earth about every three months. what they do best, quietly making This can be quite messy, there will beautifully rich, dark brown garden always be some worms left when the goodness. You may be happy to leave the worms well alone, merrily rest have moved up to the next level, so rubber gloves are a good idea. munching away in the compost heap, but why not have a go at mak- The soil which is removed can be ing your own worm villa (known as mixed one part worm caste to three parts ordinary soil. a wormery), or buying a pre- made The bottom of the wormery has a version online? well for collecting the water (‘wee Most kids love worms so it’s a great tea’), it also has a tap, the liquid activity to do as a family, or indeed should be drained and diluted (at if you enjoy the idea of reducing 1:10 with water), and used as a very landfill and nourishing your garden concentrated liquid fertiliser, at the same time. There aren’t many problems with Keeping a wormery is very easy, they come in a variety of sizes to suit keeping a wormery the main ones I found were due to the wet and cold all households and budgets, it will weather. In wet weather I found that reduce kitchen waste and provide there was often more liquid than I, or very nutritious soil for the garden. Although they don’t make great pets the worms could cope with so I leave the tap open, before I did this I sadly their waste is a lot easier to handle had quite a few drowned worms, a and they save money on fertilisers and compost. I live in an area where folded newspaper also helps keep we have food waste recyling bins but the water from just running through I never have to use mine because the and also helps with keeping the worms warm. If the weather is cold worms manage all our food waste. the wormery can be stored in the Once you’ve bought the wormery garage or wrapped in bubble wrap (mine came with Tiger Worms) or agricultural fleece, If not they do setting it up requires the soil which freeze quite stiff, but do not cover the the worms arrive in and any left over vegetables, but not onions and air holes on the lid. If there is a problem with ants, a little garlic or citrus fruit as these are too acidic. They particularly like teabags, Vaseline on the legs of the wormery crushed egg shells, cold mashed po- will soon sort it out. 28

About Worms

courtesy of wormery.co.uk

1 2

If you cut a worm in half it will probably die, one 'half' may survive and regrow but you will not get two worms. The only possibly reasonable negative or bad thing about a worm is that some humans don't like them- which is hardly the worms fault. Worms only eat dead organic matter. Nothing more and nothing less. This immediately puts them towards the very top of the list of beneficial and harmless life forms on the planet. We humans alas are towards the bottom. Enzymes produced in the gut of composing worms improves the nutrient content of the compost. Worm worked compost or worm casts are the most nutrient rich natural compost known. There are over 3000 species of worms worldwide 28 native to the UK and 3 particularly good at the rapid conversion of dead organic matter to well worked compost. Worms never over populate. They regulate their breeding actively in line with their environment, availability of food and space. If only we did likewise... Worms are hermaphroditic. They can change gender but can't be both at the same time so it still takes two to tango! The Tiger Worm, Eisenia fetida process and composts a higher percentage equivalent in waste of its own body weight than any other native or European species. The Tiger worm 100% Dendrobaena a still impressive 50%. Charles Darwin spent three years on his researches which lead to his great work, 'The origins of the Species' but 10 years on studying worms alone. There are billions more worms in the world than humans yet both would benefit from more of the former and less of the latter! Worms achieve sexual maturity after about 6 weeks and they reproduce by laying tiny capsules. Capsules can lay dormant in the soil for months and even years until conditions are propitious when between 2 and 10 small translucent pink worms will emerge.

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auto Biographies New Honda Civic 1.8 i-VTEC EX

With the exception of the high perf- ormance Type R model, the Honda Civic used to have a rather run-of-the-mill image. But the 2005 incarnation was radical and sexy enough to change that perception.

FAST FACTS Max speed: 134 mph 0-62 mph: 9.1 secs Combined mpg: 47.1 Engine: 1798 cc 4 cylinder 16 valve petrol Max. power (bhp): 140 at 6500 rpm Max. torque (lb/ft): 128 at 4300 rpm CO2: 143 g/km Price: £21,960 on the road PROS & CONS Good looking √ Comfortable √ Responsive √ Economical √ Spacious √ On the pricey side X

ow the car has gone ‘under the knife’ again to achieve an even tighter, sharper appearance. The result is an aesthetically pleasing, sporty motor that drives as brilliantly as it looks. Inside, the fresh Civic has a more athletic cockpit layout, a redesigned small and chunky steering wheel, as well as cool, blue door lining illumination. The car’s lightweight six speed manual gearbox is slicker than ever, and the gear ratios have been optimised to give higher speed refinement and a more satisfying action. In fact, Honda’s 2012 Civic has moved general driving pleasure up a whole notch. The steering is more direct, thanks to a retuned electric power steering system, and cornering is more precise because of stiffer suspension. This hasn’t affected comfort though. Far from it; the car has improved refinement and a good, stable ride – especially at motorway speeds. Fuel economy is impressive with the 1.8 i-VTEC petrol powered Civic. It returns an average of 47.1 mpg and emits143 g/km of CO2. For maximum efficiency you can choose to press the green ECON switch on the dashboard. This clever device ensures a very smooth increase in torque (turning power) for a more relaxing drive and less fuel consumption. But of course an engine is at its cleanest when it’s not running at all - that’s why idle stop technology is also fitted. Honda makes cashsaving driving fun too - the Civic’s speedometer illumination changes, depending on how hard your right foot is down, or how long you hang

on to the gears. The lighting is blue when the car is idle and stays blue during sudden acceleration and deceleration. It turns to green if you drive it in an economical manner but, in between, blue-green lighting shows during gentle blips of the throttle. The Civic is generally aimed at the family market so, as you would imagine, space is no issue - especially with Honda’s ‘Magic Seat’ system. Flip up, fold down or recline - you can transform the cabin at the lift of a lever or the push of a button. For example, the rear seats can be folded down completely to give a flat load space which is large enough to carry three mountain bikes, three large cases or three big golf bags. This is possible even with the front seats in their rearmost position. In EX trim the Civic is a very pleasurable place to be ensconced - particularly if, like me, you spend long periods on the road. Equipment includes leather upholstery, climate control, automatic headlights, electric windows and mirrors, as well as navigation, Bluetooth and a six speaker stereo. The up-to-the-minute Civic is indeed a top motor. Made by a company with a legendary reputation for bullet-proof reliability and comfort, the hatchback, although not the most affordable in its class, is one of the best looking. And, on top of that, the car is built in Britain alongside its popular siblings, the CR-V and Jazz. You’ll just have to find nearly £22,000 to pay for it – or wait for the new Civic to come on to the used market.

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TECHNOLOGY

LAPTOPS

aptop computers can offer the power of a desktop with the flexibility and freedom to use them where you wish. There is an astonishing range of products available, ranging in price from a few hundred pounds up to two thousand. As with all technology purchases it’s essential to do your research first – work out what you need, what you’re willing to pay for, and what you can do without. The cheapest option is a netbook. They are smaller and lighter than laptops, but don’t have the same range of features. They are perfect if you want to browse the internet and send emails while you’re out and about. The keyboard and larger

screen can make them easier to use than a smartphone or tablet computer, such as an iPad. The next step up is a cheap laptop. These are suitable for everyday tasks such as word processing and web browsing, and are good for computer novices. They are portable, but may be bulky. You may have to pay more if you need to store more data on the computer (such as movies) or use it for more demanding tasks (such as gaming or editing video). Sleek and light designs also come at a premium. Use our quick guide to help you understand laptop lingo and work out which one is right for you.

Modern Love... Most couples meet in mundane ways that allow them to get to know each other over time through school, friends, work or hobbies for example - but if none of these methods are working for you, have you considered modern technology to help you find Mr. or Miss Right?! The internet offers dating sites (usually with a monthly subscription) where your profile, containing a photo and other biographical details, as well as a description of the kind of person you are hoping to meet, is made available for others to see. If someone is interested in you, they can contact you by email and start a conversation to find out if you would both like to take the relationship further. There are risks involved in this type 32

of dating – so don’t give out personal identifying information and never fall for sob stories from poor men in far-away places who need you to give them money. When meeting, make it somewhere public and busy and consider taking a friend along, and use a cheap payas-you-go phone to make it easier to get rid of unwelcome admirers! Social media sites, such as facebook, are also good for getting to know new people, friends of friends often have similar interests - you already have one thing in common! They also make it easy to get reacquainted with old friends and ex-partners... You never know..! Modern dating methods may not be the ideal way to meet a new partner, but they do at least open up a world of possibilities!

OPERATING SYSTEM – Windows is the best-selling operating system. Macs are easy to use and good for graphics and publishing, but can cost two or three times as much. MEMORY – this has a big influence on how fast the laptop will run. Aim for at least 4 gigabytes (GB) of RAM. STORAGE – the hard drive is where programs, files, data and documents are stored. Look for 320 GB, or 500 GB if you want to store lots of videos, music or photographs. PROCESSOR – a dual core basic processor should come as standard. Processors are normally made by Intel or AMD. AMD is cheaper; Intel processors get more powerful as the model number increases. BATTERY LIFE – most laptop batteries will last for five or six hours. More expensive models may go for longer, but invest in a spare if you are often out for the day. SCREEN SIZE – a 15-inch display is fine for most users. Choose a larger screen for playing computer games or using design software. WEIGHT – hold it in your hands if you can! Remember, you’ll be carrying the laptop around, or sitting with it on your knee. CONTROLS – Make sure the keyboard and trackpad are comfortable to use and consider getting a separate mouse. DRIVES – some laptops don’t include CD/DVD drives and you may need to buy an external one.

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The Nutrition Coach

The Easy Way To

5 A Day

As parents we need to be inventive when it comes to getting our children to eat a healthy diet. We all know that we should be consuming 5 portions of fruit and vegetables every day, but in reality many people, including children, are failing to reach this target.

Fruit and vegetables are an important part of our diets and provide abundant amounts of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytonutrients, essential for good health. So how do we get our children eating more? The art is being prepared, getting the children involved and presenting fruit and vegetables in a likeable form – start by preparing and packing up fruit and vegetable sticks for snacks when you are out and about. Experiment with soups; butternut squash, carrots and parsnips add natural sweetness that is really palatable to children, while juices and smoothies, fruit kebabs and jellies will be a healthy and tasty alternative to chocolate and sweets.

To help your children get on the road to achieving their 5 a day, try these easy to follow tips: • Get the children to choose fruit and vegetables

• Have chopped fruit and vegetables ready in the fridge for an after school snack

• Get the children to create fruit or vegetable kebabs

• Try making roasted vegetable sticks • Try making root vegetable crisps

• Create a rainbow chart and try fruits and vegetables of each colour marking them on the chart as you go • Get the children to create a Make juices or smoothies and soups with the children • Choose fruits to go on pancakes or in yogurts/jellys

• Choose 1 unusual fruit or vegetable each week and try it together. • Plant some seeds, herbs and lettuces can be easily grown on window sills in the winter, children love to eat the food they have grown.

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Health

natural Health natural H New Year... New You?

re you ready with your resolutions for this New Year? A change for the better, a transformation, a new you? Many of us hope for better things to come, feel motivated and see this special time of year as an opportunity for change. We may review the past year and wish we could have handled problems better, without getting upset, angry, resentful or worried about the issues. All these negative feelings stress us and can actually make us ill. We know that stress actually weakens the immune system. New Year is often associated with a dietary detox. Why not a mind detox to enable us to cope with problems in a more positive and calm way? Sandy Newbigging, author and therapist, says he accidently ‘invented’ the Mind Detox Method by establishing links between past emotional events and current physical conditions. As he helped his clients to acknowledge and then release the negative emotions associated with past traumas, he was amazed to discover that healing then began. By relaxing, meditating and taking time out we can be more in touch with our feelings and understand why we respond the way we do to certain people and situations. Walking close to nature in the fresh air relaxes the mind and can help us to gain new, creative ideas and insights as we become more aware of our intuition. Being organised will ensure we have this precious time for ourselves. Some find this easier than others. Apparently it’s to do with being right or left-brain dominant. I must be right-brain dominant because I hate throwing things away, so clutter keeps piling up! Clearing clutter, even if it’s hidden away in a cupboard, can lighten our load because disorganised equals denergised. So make charity shops happy with your cast-offs, whether clothes, books or unwanted gifts. ‘A place for everything and everything in its place’ will hopefully help de-clutter our minds. This New Year resolve to worry less about the 36

past or the future and enjoy the present more. Learn from past mistakes and, though not always easy, move on by forgiving ourselves and others. Shake off negativity by being optimistic, purposeful and creative, choosing activities that inspire and uplift you. Music can do this so I’ll finish with the words of this old Bing Crosby song, ‘ We’ve got to accentuate the positive, eliminate the negative, latch on to the affirmative,.......Spread joy up to the maximum and bring gloom to the minimum...’ Good luck with your resolutions!!

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& HAIR BEAUTY

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p ---------------------Non surgical facelifts can roll back the years.. Without the pain .

They come to us all – wrinkles, laughter lines, crow’s feet. Whatever you call them, as we age, our faces age with us. But as 50 becomes the new 40 – or it is 30? Some of us don’t want to look the age we are, we want to look the age we feel! Until recently, the only option for a younger-looking face was a facelift. This meant expense, pain, a long recovery time and many potential side effects. Now, however, there is a non-surgical option that is gaining in popularity. A non-surgical facelift reduces wrinkles and tightens loose skin. It is a minimally invasive procedure that works by heating the deeper layers of skin – the dermis – using either infrared (laser) or radiofrequency energy to promote what is called a ‘healing response’. This stimulates production of new collagen and remodels the existing collagen. The effect is to contract the layers of skin above and make the face appear plumper and smoother. The treatment can also be used on the jaw line, neck, abdomen, bottom, upper arms and thighs. Some procedures use local anaesthetics or over-the-counter pain relief, but others need nothing at all. You will be given something to cool your skin during the procedure and you may experience some temporary swelling, redness or skin blanching. Unlike chemical peel and microdermabrasion techniques, no skin is removed and so

non-surgical facelifts are generally more suitable for people with darker skin. More serious side effects such as bumps, blisters, pigmentation changes or skin depressions are very rare. Because the treatment is non-invasive, there is normally no need to take time off work. An advantage of the non-surgical facelift is that it is significantly cheaper than a surgical procedure. Sometimes only one treatment is required, but often two or three treatments are given a month apart. The full results may not be seen until six months later. You should bear in mind though, that the effect will not be as dramatic as with a surgical facelift because the non-surgical procedure doesn’t actually remove excess skin or fat. Results will vary according to differences in skin thickness and texture, in healing response and in the person’s lifestyle. Non-surgical facelifts are most suited to younger people who are beginning to notice that their skin is ageing, but wish to delay more invasive procedures for a few years. They are also good for people who are unable to have surgery. If you decide to go ahead with a non-surgical facelift, make sure you research the experience and training of the person who will perform the procedure. Always ask for references and follow them up. Then lie back and watch the years melt away.

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Out&About

• Clubs • Groups • Events THE DUNSTABLE ORBIT CLUB • Community

“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 20 years ago, the club has raised thousands of pounds for local and national of tulips growfrom events cultivation such as quizzes, race and nights, stalls our openings. Lookcharities out for our 1ST TOTTERNHOE BROWNIES WATLING STREET CLUB Carnivals etc. ing them for the Chelsea Flower posters around the at village. Small Brownie Pack However, there is more to Orbit than the comradeship We are an independent social club for ex-Rotarians and Show - this year they gained their Everyone Welcome ‘only down the hill to Totternhoe’ and teamwork involved in organising fundraising events. similarly minded peoplecome and have 62nd Gold medal! On November If you are interested alongbeen in existence for The emphasis is very muchthe on having fun in nearly 3 years. We are named ‘The Watling Street Club’ 12th Chairman ofall thetheir Midland THE BOGTROTTERS for an evening and find out how activities including a wide range of social pursuits such as as our members form a link along the Watling Street. Branch of the National Vegetable TheHunter’s Bogtrotters (Dunstable and bowling, much archery, 10-pin cinema/theatres, guided walks, We meet every Thursday evening at the ‘Old will tellevents us how to have District Walking and Hostelling fun you can have. progressive meals etc.Society The club plan to suit all Lodge’ Whipsnade for a meal and speaker. homegrown vegetables on our Group) are a group of about 90 Spaces available budgets and many of them are free or at a low cost. New members are welcome. For more information plate every day of the year. The walkers, hikers andMembership hostellers. is We Tuesday Evening ‘s 01582 term time only £10 annually. contact John Stevens 668033 Meetings are on and third Tuesdays each Christmas meeting onof December run a surprisingly diverse range of the first 6.00pm – 7.30pm D.A.W.G. SOCIAL CLUB month at the Dunstable Rugby Bedford Road , 10th will Club, be a sociable evening. activities, including half and full Ages 7 – 10 Houghton Regis 8pm. You’ll be guaranteed a warm We are acontact small and We start 2013 in January with a daysocial walks, hostelling trips, meals Please Zoefriendly Hurry Dunstable based welcome. group once a month with a wide variety of talk by English Heritage about the and evening activities. 01582meeting 666942 Contact Mark on 01582 539379, speakers during the winter and outdoor events recently restored gardens at Wrest New and members are always Julie on wel01582 535761 www.orbitclub.org.uk/dunstable visits during the summer. Each year we also arrange two Park, Silsoe. come. Prospective members are CHILDREN’S PROM evenings with a meal and professional entertainment. Meetings are heldCLUB on the 2nd invited to get in touch via the 2.30pm February, DUNSTABLE BRIDGE We wouldSaturday welcome9new members (couples and singles). Monday of each winter month at give us a ring or just turn St Mary’s Eaton For further Church, information andBray: a free visit whywebsite, not contact We meet every Monday bank holidays) Chews the (except Salvation Army Hall, in Bull Pond up to an event or walk. featuring Aylesbury Concert Band. Brian on 01525 754189. House in High Street South, Dunstable, from 1pm to Lane, Dunstable and commence Enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk FREE TICKETS for accompanied 5pm. We would welcome new members of all standards 7.30pm. Visitors welcome at £2 DUNSTABLE GARDEN CLUB www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk children. and you do not need at a partner. newcall: members subscription is 01582 865966 SueIforanyone Julianis interestedand Prom favourites please 01582 664485 Dunstable Garden including Club meetSailor’s on the second Monday £10 a year. Hornpipe and month Land ofatHope and evening of each 7.30pm at the Salvation Army Mary Chapman Tel:Community Hall, Bull Pond Lane, Dunstable. The Club DOWNSIDE DUNSTABLE W.I.DOWNS Glory - other music may include BLOWS CONSERVATION GROUP has been in existence for many years and maintaining 01582 603710 We meet two evenings a month extracts from The Jungle Book, Join our friendly guided walk at blows downs dunstable on aChitty steadyChitty membership. The subscription is only £102nd per& 4th Thursday at on the Bang Bang, Harry sunday July 3rd. the walk will be a short 2 miles but unduyear which entitles members to attend eight winter D.A.W.G. SOCIAL CLUB Watling Lower Sch.lating, Bullpond Ln, Potter, Aladdin, Pirates of the Carat a leisurly pace. on the way we talk about the meetings with speakers and a selection of summer are atrust small and friendly Dunat 7.30pm. ibbean,from Nelly theonwards Elephant, Mary interesting flora and fauna of thisWe wildlife owned nature reserve outings May to various and which will include thestable area ofbased the chalk pitsclub where themeet wild social who For more info contact Poppins. garden venues. well-known should be in abundance. once a month in Houghton Regis Chris 520361 Ticketsare for very adults £7.50 from Visitors welcome at £2 the each so why notBrewin come 01582orchids Meet aton theyour far end ofwith Halfamoon , dunstable at 3pm. widelane variety of speakers February - “Clothes Box Office - 01525 222283 along and meet some of the members who14th would love for further details, tony bliss 01582 and 704664. during the winter outdoor Back” Angela DavisTel. - Comp. to see fresh faces. events during the summer. Tip EATON BRAY TAVERNERS CHILTERN CEILIDHSDressmaking We would welcome new members 28th February - Members Evening BRIDGE CLUB Chiltern Ceilidhs a regular ceilidh/barn dance the - “Human Design (couples and singles). For further 14th on March The club meets -every Friday 2nd Friday of the month. All ages welcome, no experiSt Fremund’s informationChurch and a free visit why System” evening fromand 7.30-10.30pm at our house ence required live music from band - Cheryl Pearce - Comp. not contact Brian on If you could be someone else who the Methodist Church, Eaton Bray every month! The dances start at 8pm (doors open at Westfield Road, Dunstable 01525 754189. it be? High St.and to play duplicate bridge. 7.30pm) tickets are £7 (£5 conc) withwould under 10s 28thstreet, March - Birthday Party £1 for in members, £2 for getting free. Venue: Thevisitors. Polish Club, Albion TEA TIME TALES Dunstable, 3AZ Tel: 01525LU6 221779 Contact: 01582 475655, Priory House Heritage Centre DUNSTABLE SENIOR CITIZENS email: chilternceilidhs@googlmail.com ourage would you like to live to? Tel: 01582 890270 What TODDINGTON COMMUNITY CAFEor visit website: www.chilternceilidhs.info Local History Talks Would you like to live it with Toddington Community Cafe aims with Tea/Coffee Dignity, Financial peace of mind, to bring Toddington together and THE BOGTROTTERS Withand a voice raise funds for(Dunstable our community. TheWalking Contact: MrsThursday Nicola2.30pm, Talbot- 4.00pm The Bogtrotters and District Hos£4.50 per person Wehikers are aand local group fighting the Café Group) opens twice a month: telling are a group of about 90 walkers, 01582604847 7th February fight for the over 50’s on the first Monday of the diverse range hostellers. We run a surprisingly of activities, Deceiving the enemy Interested in findingadmin@dunstableswimmingpools.co.uk out more? month,from 9.15-11.30am Tod- trips, including half and full day walks,in hostelling meals and Dunstable’s fakers and forgers in Come to a meeting dington Baptist Church, and evening activities. World War II - Town Guide Jean We meet the last Thursday of each on the third Thursday the month New members are alwaysof welcome. Prospective members 21st February month at 2pm from 9.15-11.30am in via thethe Wilkinare invited to get in touch website, give us a ring or just up beside to an event or walk. Women Codebreakers of Bletchley In the Social club of The Catholic sonturn Hall, St. George’s enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk Town Guide Bryony Church in West Street Dunstable Church. www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk 7th March Or call for more information on All our Cakes and Bakes are home01582 or Julian Every More Interesting Local Ladies 01582 534357 made865966 by localSue volunteers. Town Guide Bryony month we donate our profits to a THE HEALING TRUSTDUNSTABLE GARDEN CLUB 21st March charity or local group supporting Ardley School, Lowther Road, Dunstable, eachOctober meeting a The Priory Gardens At our local Hill people. Thursday - 9pm. No charge, donations What Lies Beneath - Dave Warren, representative of Blom’s Bulbs, See and evening, LIKE our7.30 Facebook page accepted. NFSHofcontact Pam HillCafe on Manshead Archaological Society Melchbourne, Bedfordshire gave for examples our previous 01582 606182. Come for interest or healing. a very interesting talk on the treats, and to receive updates on

HALL FOR HIRE Regular slots available or for family parties

CHILTERN GATEWAY CENTRE Valentine’s Dinner

The perfect place to take your loved one to celebrate .Enjoy a glorious romantic meal with fabulous food and an elegant atmosphere. 14th Feb 7.30 - 9.30 £22.50 Nest box making

16th February 11am - 3pm £7 Help your birds by giving them a home this Spring. Build a cosy nest box with our countryside team and provide your garden birds somewhere to nest this Spring. Half Term Crafty Fun

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. 18th February Kite Making £5 19th February Mask Making £5 20th February Clay Making £5 Sharpenhoe Clappers Walk

24th February 11am - 1pm £2 Fancy a breath of fresh air An opportunity to learn more about this important landscape with this stroll through the Clappers and surrounding area. Led by a member of the National Trust Countryside Team. Easter Egghead Hunt

Join us on our egg trail 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 will be lots of family Easter fun happening too. 23 & 24 March 29 March - 1 April 11am - 4pm Last admission time: 4pm All Tickets £2 (for trail and chocolate prize DUNSTABLE NETBALL CLUB The Club’s objective is to foster and promote the sport of netball, providing opportunities for recrea-

tion and competition. Dunstable Netball Club Junior session is held at All Saints Academy, Houghton Road, Dunstable, Bedfordshire LU5 5AB from 6pm till 7.15 on Thursday evenings. Children are required to wear suitable training shoes, bring a drink and £3.00 subscription fees per week. The adult session is held at All Saints Academy, as above from 7.30 - 9.00 on Thursday evenings. It is open to all ages and abilities and is a great way to get fit, have fun and make new friends. £3.00 subscription fee per week Junior membership of the Club is open to : Boys in School years 5 & 6 Females in School Year 5 to adult Children aged 8 (school year 4) will be accepted if a Club Coach deems them to have exceptional development qualities and on the agreement of the committee. For further information, find us on Facebook(Dunstable Net-ball Club) 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, also where they can meet like minded people, make new friends and enjoy a varied social life in a safe and friendly environment. We meet once a week, we now have a room in the Conservative Club, High Street North . Dunstable Annual fee -£26 For more information please contact Sandy on 07813 262556 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 PRIORY LADIES GROUP We meet on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month 8.00pm - 10.00pm at Chews House, High Street South, Dunsta-

ble. We are a lively group of 50 plus, if you like interesting talks, meeting people and occasional trips out then why not join us! Our meetings until Easter are Looking for Polar Bears : 13th February - Fish & Ships : 27th February - February Fun : 13th March - Humbers Homemade Preserves look forward to seeing YOU....... For further information please telephone Monica 01582 667030 or Barbara 01582 606300 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 MEDIEVAL DUNSTABLE Celebrating the 800th Anniversary of the Dedication of the Priory, & the Medieval History of Dunstable On 18th October (St. Luke’s Day) 1213, Bishop Hugh II of Lincoln visited Dunstable to dedicate the newly completed Augustinian Priory of St. Peter. This year will see the 800th anniversary of this historic occasion. To commemorate this, there will be a series of Medieval Dunstable events throughout the year. Full details of these events, and further information, can be found on www.medievaldunstable.org.uk . Admission will be charged for some of these events and tickets for these can be obtained at Priory House, Dunstable’s Heritage Centre. Many of the events are focused on the Priory Church of St. Peter, which has its own website www. dunstableparish.org.uk We look forward to sharing these exciting events with you and with the many visitors to the town which these celebrations will attract. Check with Priory House for the latest updates Tel. 01582 891420 or email prioryhouse@dunstable.gov.uk

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