The Vine Villages - October/November 2013 - Issue 10

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Editors: Scott Nightingale Shelly Nesbitt

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Copy deadline for our next issue - 15th November 2013

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Popup Dunstable 6 Town At The Crossroads 10 A Travellers Tale 12 Looking Up! 16 What’s Best For You - Ebay 20 Aged Concerns 24 Allergies 26 In The Garden 28 Auto-biographies 30 Give It Some Welly!

32 The Magic Of Fireworks 34 The Poppy’s Appeal 40 Puzzles 42 Out & About 44

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5

Paranormal Investigators come to Priory House, Dunstable - Again Shadow on the stairs…

Popup Dunstable Announces First Start-Up Retailers

An empty shop in Dunstable has been transformed into a pop-up outlet for Bedfordshire entrepreneurs – and has confirmed one of its first retailers is a nine-year-old schoolboy from Lidlington.

Henry Patterson, who runs boutique online confectionary start-up with help from his mum Becky, will join other local businesses in a bid to rekindle shoppers’ love for Dunstable’s high street scene – as well as generate awareness about his online offering.

Not Before Tea offers a range of themed sweetie jars for kids, such as Mud & Worms, Mallow Meadows and Aliens in Space, which make great gifts and include glass pens to decorate the jars once they’re empty.

Henry, who came up with the idea for Not Before Tea based on his Mum’s response when he asked for sweets, The above is an exert taken from “Ghostly Bedfordalso includes handy reward stickers for parents to give shire… Reinvestigated by APIS founder Damien their kids to make sure they brush their teeth.

O’Dell, He’ll be joined by online jewellery and accessories and Damien along with other members of APIS are brand , run by part-time restaurant manager Julie Koch holding an Investigation Evening at Priory House. from her home in the Priory area of Dunstable.

Would you like to join them? Are you brave Julie, who used to run local nightclub Cinderella Rockenough? Do you fancy taking part in a real ghost afella before it changed hands, runs her online business hunt? Visit the parts of Priory House that are norwhen she gets home at night and at the weekend – but mally closed off to the public. has always dreamed of growing her business enough to Tickets for the evening are priced at £30 and the take on her own shop. evening runs from 8:30 pm to 1 am in the morning.

She said: “I’m really looking forward to creating a buzz The price will include a small buffet, and tea and in Ashton Square by doing something different. coffee throughout the evening.

People need to recognise that by supporting local busiThe book “Ghostly Bedfordshire… Reinvestigated is nesses, they are boosting their own local economy. available priced £9.95 from Priory House Gift Shop Local businesses employ local people and use local services, so it’s in everyone’s interest to support what we’re doing at PopUp Dunstable.

Community Hedge Planting Day “I hope to use the experience to build my business towards a more permanent presence on the high street Sunday 24th November. as well as running my online brand.”

Have you ever thought you would like to have a The pop-up shop opens on October 3 and will run for go at helping local wildlife but have not been sure three months and new start-up retailers will regularly where to start? share the space for between two and four weeks. There An opportunity to find out about what’s going on is still room for more businesses to be part of the initiayour local nature reserve, meet our friendly team tive ahead of the impending Christmas rush. and others in your community. Help plant a wildlife The shop has the capacity to house four start-ups, coworking and co-funding the space at a time. Retailers corridor. will range from fashion to home wares, to unique handFirst session starts 10am. Second session starts made gifts and chocolates.

1.30pm. Open finish time. Pack down 4pm.

The shops reflect the trend that more than 70% of busiBlows Downs Nature Reserve Dunstable. Meeting nesses are now started and run from home by people point The Paddocks entrance at the end of Half with a passion for what they do. According to a recent Moon Lane .LU54AE Government report into business, 95.5% of all British Booking recommended as limited capacity. businesses are micro businesses, employing 7.8 million Adults and children welcome.

Children must be Community Hedge Planting Day people and contributing 20% of private sector turnover. th accompanied by a responsible adult.

Sunday 24 November.

The day-to-day running of the shop will be the responsiNo previous experience required.

Outdoor clothHave you ever thought you would like to have a go at helping bility of Dunstable Town Council. local wildlife but have not been sure where to start? ing and sturdy footwear is essential. Please bring Cllr Terry Colbourne Vice Chairman of Dunstable Joint gardening gloves if youAnhave them.

Alloutequipment opportunity to find about what’s going on yourCommittee local stated “We are still looking for more local nature reserve, meet our friendly team and others in your provided. This is a free activity! community. Help plant a wildlife corridor. entrepreneurs to step forward and get involved in PopUp To book or for further information please contact: It’s an exciting opportunity for small busiFirst session starts 10 am. Second session starts 1.30 Dunstable. pm.

Ruth Sneath on 01525 874 317 Open finish time. Pack down 4pm. nesses that don’t already have a presence on Dunstable’s or email: ruth.sneath@wildlifebcn.org High Street to give it a go at minimum cost and risk.

“Initiatives like this go to the heart of our mission - to work towards developing an economically and socially vibrant community in a sustainable environment.”

Local businesses interested in taking part should call 01582 513000

“APIS (Anglia Paranormal Investigation Society) member PW had taken some photographs up there (in theattic area) in the dark, and when they were developed a shadow could be seen on the back stairs leading to the attic, it is a small silhouette, and it could just be that of a little child…”

6

Blows Downs Nature Reserve Dunstable. Meeting point The Paddocks entrance at the end of Half Moon Lane .LU54AE

Booking recommended as limitedDay capacity.

Community Hedge Planting Adults and children welcome. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

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SHOP SHOP HOURS HOURS

L L RE RE

Mon to Sat – 5am to 8pm Mon to Sat – 5am to 8pm Sunday Sunday -- 5am 5am to to 1pm 1pm Open Bank Holidays to 5.30pm Open Bank Holidays to 5.30pm

URS URS 0pm

Home Newspaper Home Newspaper & Deliveries POST OFFICE HOURS & Magazine Magazine Mon toDeliveries Sat – 5am Edlesborough, Eaton Bray, Totternhoe,

0pm 0pm m m

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able ble accounts) ble accounts)

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YOUR LOCAL YOUR LOCAL VILLAGE STORE VILLAGE STORE

SHOP HOURS

Mo Mo Open Open

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to 8pm &H POST OFFICE HOURS Edlesborough, Eaton Bray, Totternhoe, Mon to Fri – 9am to 5.30pm Slapton, Northall, Stanbridge, Tilsworth, Edlesb &M Sunday - 5am to 1pm Slapton, Northall, Tilsworth, MonSat to – Stanbridge, 9am to 5.30pm –Fri 9am toIvinghoe 12.30pm Marsworth, Slapton Edlesb Marsworth, Sat –lunchtime 9am toIvinghoe 12.30pm No closure Slapton Open Bank Holidays to 5.30pm - National and Health Lottery

SHOP HOURS

No lunchtime closure -Closed National and Health Lottery Bank Holidays - Nationalon and Health Lottery Free ATM -N Closed on Bank - Free ATMHolidays - Monthly Promotions in Store - Inland and Overseas Parcel Services N - Monthly Promotions in Store - Mobile Phone, Electric and Gas Top Ups M Road Tax - InlandPhone, and Overseas Services - Mobile Electric Parcel and Gas Top Ups - Fresh Bread and Cakes (orders taken) - Mobile Mo Foreign Currency -M Road Tax - Fresh Bread and Cakes (orders taken) - Fresh Fruit, Veg and Local Produce Fresh Moneygram Mobile - Foreign Currency - Fresh Fruit, Veg and Local Produce - Off Licence (offers(applicable in store) - Fres - Personal & Business Banking - SHOP Fresh Moneygram Open - Off Licence (offers in store) accounts) Greeting Cards and Stationery -O Mon to Sat Bill Payments Fresh - Personal-&Greeting BusinessCards Banking and(applicable Stationery accounts) - Laundry and Clothing Repair Service Sunday Gr Edlesborough, Eaton Bray, Totternhoe, O - Bill Payments - Laundry and Clothing Repair Service Open Bank H - Laund - Gr HOURS Slapton,SHOP Northall, Stanbridge, Tilsworth, Mon to Sat - 5am to pm Sunday - 5am to 1pm - Laund H

Mon to Sat – 5am to 8pm Sunday - 5am to 1pm YOUR LOCAL Home Newspaper Open Bank Holidays to 5.30pm VILLAGE STORE & Magazine YOUR LOCAL Deliveries SHOP HOURS VILLAGE STORE Mon to Sat – 5am to 8pm Bank Holidays to 5.30pm Marsworth, Ivinghoe POSTOpenOFFICE HOURS Sunday - 5am to 1pm Home Newspaper &N M Home Mon to Fri – 9am to 5.30pm POST OFFICE HOURS Edlesb Open Bank Holidays to 5.30pm Magazine Deliveries Sat& –National 9am to 12.30pm -to Health Lottery& Magazi Mon Fri – 9am to and 5.30pm Slapton

No Satlunchtime – 9am to 12.30pm Edlesborough, Eaton Bray, Totternhoe, Slapton, Northall -closure Free ATM SHOP HOURS No lunchtime closure Marswo Closed on Bank Holidays Slapton, Northall, Stanbridge, Tilsworth, Monthly Promotions in Store Closed on Bank Holidays Mon Marsworth, to Sat – 5am to 8pm- National- aN Ivinghoe -Inland and Overseas Parcel Services Mobile Phone, Electric and Gas Top Ups- F - Inland and Overseas Parcel Services Sunday 5am to 1pm Home Newspaper M - -Road Tax - Monthly- Pr Road Taxand Cakes (orders taken) - Fresh Bread S MobileE - Foreign Currency - Mobile- Phone, - Foreign Currency Bank Holidays to 5.30pm and and Health Lottery - Fresh Bread an &- National Deliveries -Open Fresh Fruit, Veg Local Produce -Moneygram Moneygram - Fresh accounts) -Magazine m - Fresh Fruit, Ve Personal & Business Banking (applicable accounts) Fresh - Personal & Business Banking (applicable accounts) Free ATM ces Edlesborough, Eaton Bray,inTotternhoe, - Off Licence (offers store) - Off Licenc - Bill Payments SHOP HOURS -O - Bill Payments - Greeting Ca Monthly Promotions in Store Slapton, Northall, Stanbridge, Tilsworth, - -Greeting Cards and Stationery - Gr Laundry and C Mon to Sat – 5am toGas 8pm - Mobile Phone, Electric and Top -Ups Laund Marsworth, Ivinghoe - Laundry and Clothing Repair Service Sunday - Cakes 5am to 1pm taken) - FreshHome Bread and (orders Newspaper 8 Saccounts) - Fresh Fruit, Veg and Local Produce

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Dunstable

The Town At The Crossroads - Part IX

M

By Paul Heley

edieval history is littered don known as Faux’s Hall. The area siege of Bedford Castle. with “baddies”. It seems around Faux’s Hall became known Preparation was slow and laborious in that almost anyone who as Vauxhall (and when the engineerassembling all the elaborate equipment exercised any form of ing concern, which had started there, and personnel required, eg mangonels power was quite prepared to lie and moved to Luton in 1905 to become (huge, rock throwing machines), battercheat - even to kill - in order to further Vauxhall Motors, one might say that ing rams, protective coverings, attack his, or his family’s, cause. the ghost of Falkes had returned). towers and flame throwers; crossbowIn a previous piece, I mentioned Dun- By 1218, England was peaceful; ie no men to shoot from these high towers stable’s very own 12th century baddie more work for Falkes and his thugs. and miners to dig under and therefore - Dun the Robber. Although he’s the So, rather than bash up the king’s to weaken the castle walls. It must “hero” of many a local story, there’s opponents, he decided to bash up his be realised that during all this time, considerable doubt as to whether he own people instead and, basically, the people in the castle were denied actually existed. Is he fact or fiction? became a war lord. To compound access to food and water and had to Good question. But our other local matters, there was another shady char- survive on what they had in store. baddie - Falkes de Breaute - definitely acter who had built himself a “castle” Starvation, for a siege, was another isn’t fiction. He’s fact; and, unfortuat Eaton (the Bray bit came later) who powerful weapon. nately for the people of Luton and also enjoyed beating people up. The But when all was ready, and in Dunstable during the early part of the Dunstable Annals for 1220 record that recognition of the atrocities suffered by 13th century, he was horribly real. the town suffered from both camps and Dunstable at the hands of Falkes, the Falkes (or Faux or Vaux - people was subjected to marauding soldiers “Men of Dunstable” were given the weren’t very good at spelling in those demanding food and provisions. Since (extremely dubious) priviledge of leaddays) was basically a nasty piece of these soldiers were quite prepared to ing the first, and subsequent, assaults. It work who worked as a mercenary kill, life in Dunstable was pretty grim. was a case of “Well done, chaps. You soldier for King John (another nasty In 1223, the people approached the can be the first to die honourably”!! piece of work). Falkes liked bashing judiciary and outlined their grievances. Altogether there were four assaults people up - and he was very good at it Falkes was summoned to appear at (with some Dunstable men being killed - as shown by his successful campaign Bedford County Assizes; but he refused and others captured) in which each against the Welsh in 1211 and when to attend. He was summoned a second assault inflicted further damage. Finally he captured Bedford Castle in 1215 time but, again, refused to attend. On the castle said “OK Henry, you win”. (for which he became its “keeper”). the third time, the king (now 16 or Upon surrender, all prisoners were John, you will recall, was the king 17 years old) ordered Falkes to attend released and the women and children who, in 1215, was forced to sign the Dunstable Priory. Yet~again, allowed to go free. But more than 80 Towncourt At at The Crossroads PartheVIII

By Paul Heley Magna Carta following earlier skirrefused. In his absence, he was found of the male defenders were hung upon edieval history is littered with “baddies”. It seems Vauxhall (and when the engineering concern, which mishes with the reforming Soanyone it guilty on 35 incensed the king’s orders (which only proves Mbarons. that almost who exercised any counts form of which had startedso there, moved to Luton in 1905 to become power was quite prepared to lie and cheat - even to kill Vauxhall Motors, one might say that the ghost of Falkes must have seemed that John had lost; him, he attempted tohadkidnap the three that, in medieval times, it was even - in order to further his, or his family’s, cause. returned). and that Magna Carta had judiciars.

Fortunately, tougher thanfortoday being a man!)

In abecome previous piece, I mentioned Dunstable’s very own By an 1218,early Englandwarning was peaceful; ie no more work 12thPope century (bless baddie - Dunenabled the Robber. two Although and his thugs.

So, rather than bash upwas the king’s part of English law. But the of he’s themFalkes to escape but Falkes eventually captured and the “hero” of many a local story, there’s considerable opponents, he decided to bash up his own people inhim!) declared the charter invalid.

Thishe actually the third and wasbecame a warbrought to trial and again found guilty doubt as to whether existed.wasn’t Is he fact so or lucky stead and, basically, lord. To compound Good question. our other localcarted baddie - off matters, there was another character who had But, because of past loywas manna from Heavenfiction? for John who But ambushed, to Bedford Castleshadyon all counts.

Falkes de Breaute - definitely isn’t fiction. He’s fact; built himself a “castle” at Eaton (the Bray bit came latpromptly reneged on every in Dunthe dungeons alongside alty king’s father (John), his life and, agreement. unfortunately for theand peoplethrown of Luton and er) who also enjoyed beating people up. to The the Dunstable during the not early partother of the 13th century, he was Annals for 1220 record that thewas town suffered from Fisticuffs broke out once stable more, but prisoners. spared.

However, he was required horribly real. both camps and was for long, because John did something to forfeit all his castles, lands and Falkes (or Faux or Vaux subjected to maraudreally useful in October, -1216, - and he was outlawed. people when weren’t very ingpossessions soldiers demanding spelling in those food and provisions. he died: to be succeededgood by athis 9 year Promising to live a pious life - difficult days) was basically a Since these soldiers old son, Henry 3rd. Withnasty thepiece king to believe - he went first to Rome, met of work who were quite prepared workedwas as a conmercenary towith kill, lifethe in Dunstable being so young, governance Pope, then set off to join a soldier for King John was pretty grim. ducted through a Council(another - of whom from southern France. nasty piece of InCrusade 1223, the starting people work). Falkes liked bashapproached judiciFalkes was one.

But he the died in 1226 at St Ciriac before ing people up - and he ary and outlined their He (Falkes) secured the Lordship of embarking upon his journey. was very good at it - as grievances. Falkes was the Manor of Luton in 1216 when So the to men of Dunstable were instrushownand by his successsummoned appear campaign against the atmental Bedford County Asin 1217, he broke a siegeful on Lincoln in conducting a medieval siege Welsh in 1211 and when he captured Bedford Castle sizes; but he refused to attend. He was summoned a Castle, he was appointedinSherriff of he became Henry was furious and ordered Falkes order tothird remove a local war lord and 1215 (for which its “keeper”). second time but, again, refused toin attend.

On the John, you will recall, was to the appear king who, inpersonally 1215, was time, the kinghim (now but 16 or 17 yearstyrant. old) ordered Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire before ForFalkes this, they were allowed lastforced to sign the Magna Carta following earlier skir- to attend court at Dunstable Priory. Yet again, he reand five other counties. He was Falkes instead, to his friend, ing honour and a share in the spoils. mishes withnow the reforming barons. fled, So it must have fused.

In his absence, he was found guilty on 35 counts thatat John had lost;the and Earl that Magna Carta had Upon which sothis incensed him, he attempted to kidnap the very powerful and built aseemed castle of Chester. fourth part of English law. But the Pope (bless him!) three judiciars. Fortunately, an early warning enabled Castle Picture: Bedford Luton and a large house become in south Lon- refusal, Henry promptly ordered the declared the charter invalid. This was manna from two of them to escape but the third wasn’t so lucky 10

Heaven for John who promptly reneged on every agreement. Fisticuffs broke out once more, but not for long, because John did something really useful in

and was ambushed, carted off to Bedford Castle and thrown in the dungeons alongside other prisoners.

Henry was furious and ordered Falkes to appear

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Learn Archery Come and try this fabulous sport Silver Arrow provides fun events, coaching, courses, archery equipment and competitions for all ages and abilities

are offering two new walks called 1 -"Medieval Dunstable and its Hidden Priory" and 2 - "Dunstable's Hidden Priory" in celebration of the 800th anniversary of the consecration of the Augustinian Priory on 18th October, 1213.

Referring to both walks, the full Priory was considerably larger than the church which remains today and the walks will demonstrate its original great extent and its everyday conduct. In addition, on Walk 1, there will be a brief explanation as to how, and why, the town came into being in the early 1100s.

Walk 1 will last approximately one hour and Walk 2 slightly less. In both cases the degree of walking difficulty is easy.

Walk 1 will be held at 11am every Saturday morning from June 1st to October 19th starting at Priory House on High Street South, whilst Walk 2 will be held at 11am on the first Sunday in each month from June 2 nd to October 6th starting at the Priory Church car park.

There is NO CHARGE for either walk, and anyone who is interested in learning something about the considerable history of Dunstable will be very welcome.

Sparrow Hall Farm, Edlesborough, LU6 2ES www.silverarrowarchery.co.uk info@silverarrowarchery.co.uk 01525 229374

11

A ers Travell Tale

Bolting Round The Baltic : Part I

T

his year we thought we'd do what a lot of other people have done for many years and go on one of the Baltic cruises and see some of the historic cities before they become indistinguishable from each other in the ever increasing drive towards global uniformity.

Previous cruises for us have always been to out of the way, often tiny, scenic places which insist that the ship be small - really small otherwise they can't get into the little coves, fjords and rivers. But this time, because we were going to large cities instead, we opted for a ship described as "small" but which still carried approximately 600 passengers - absolutely huge in comparison!

A definite bonus for us was that the cruise started and finished at Dover which meant that our journeys there and back were no more than 3 hours each way. And since we could park the car only yards from where the ship was berthed, this made things even easier.

Our first destination was Copenhagen.

Mercifully, the sea was very calm so there were no problems on that front (I'm not a good sailor!). At dinner in the restaurant on the first evening, we found ourselves with a group of four Canadians from Vancouver Island who all knew each other and we feared we might be "guinea pigs". But they immediately invited us into their world so it was all very friendly (and something of a relief!)

But the cafeteria (with its amazing selection of food) rather than the restaurant was our usual choice for breakfast and lunch. During the

By Paul Heley

fortnight we met all manner of interesting people from UK, America, Canada, Australia and many other parts of the world and what was so noticeable was the easy going attitude everywhere - most likely because this was an American ship.

But having said that, it was not a complete free for all where anything goes and I had to endure three Captain's Dinners where dress was very formal. Personally, I hate this sort of thing - but the ladies love it!

Arriving in Copenhagen, the weather was dull and overcast with a hint of rain. However, it cleared as we were taken on a coach trip around the city.

We were shown the Little Mermaid the emphasis is on Little! - and buildings of civic importance but I'm afraid the Danish capital didn't really set my juices racing. No doubt, it's my fault.

Other people found it fascinating.

On our return, we went for Afternoon Tea - a trip down Nostalgia Avenue with little fingers in the air, delicate sandwiches, tiny cakes, and scones with strawberry jam and cream. As Oscar Wilde once said "I can resist anything except temptaion" - and we found it very difficult not to succumb at these times.

In the evenings there was always a show of some sort given either by a troupe of singers and dancers (who were very slick and well rehearsed) or by solo performers. I was pleased to discover a little jazz duo who played until quite late each evening and caused me to lose a lot of sleep (why is it always assumed that jazz fans are insomniacs?!)

After Copenhagen, there followed

three places in quick succession :Klaipeda (in Lithuania), Riga (Latvia) and Tallinn (Estonia) - the so called Baltic States. Each one greeted us with absolutely wonderful weather with the blue skies and sunshine which lasted throughout the entire trip. We were so lucky.

Although Riga and Tallinn are capital cities, Klaipeda is simply a port on the Baltic. But it has a large central square where a local band in regional costume performed Lithuanian folk music. Very enjoyable. There were also lots of small stalls selling amber jewelry and hand made wooden toys.

I already knew that the Baltic region is where most amber originates but had always thought it to be purplish brown. But, in fact, it comes in all colours with the cream coloured variety (apparently) the more valuable. However, if an insect is trapped inside, this adds further value (amber is fossilised tree resin). Val bought a bracelet from a handsome and persuasive young man who spoke very good English!

Riga was very different to Klaipeda.

It's a big capital city with impressive buildings to match. We went ashore fairly early in the morning and went round the cathedral. Having seen many Anglican and a goodly number of Catholic cathedrals, I was interested to see how the Lutherans did things.

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terested r anyonehistoin esent fointe An ideal lpr ry the in d reste ne anyo An idea present for le Dunstable!

Dun ystabof in the histofor

A Travellers

Tale

(Continued)

In essence, they - perhaps not surprising considering the founder of their Church - are far more sparse. One might say that Catholic cathedrals are dripping with elaborately decorated features whilst Anglican cathedrals are examples of soaring Gothic splendour. Lutheran cathedrals, in contrast, exude an elegant simplicity.

Riga, a former Hanseatic city, is also famous for its Art Nouveau area where many of the buildings (often foreign embassies) are splendidly embossed.

We eventually ricocheted to the particular area of town and were suitably impressed. But having got lost once or twice, our return to the ship became something of a stampede since we had to sail again in the early afternoon destined for Tallinn; where we arrived around 9.30 next morning.

Of all the Baltic states, Estonia is the "must see" one because of Tallinn - a definite honeypot. We joined a coach trip and went first to an open air amphitheatre where Estonians gather in vast numbers to sing their hearts out on special days. We were told about the history of the country - only fairly recently independent - and learnt that, like the other Baltic states, Estonia had been occupied by, and part of, just about every other power in the region at some time (especially Sweden and more latterly Russia).

The Estonian language is close to Finnish - which means that it's nothing like any other Baltic language, or German, or Russian, or Scandinavian.

How strange! There is also a large minority of Russian speakers and, reflecting this strong Russian presence, there is the Nevsky Cathedral; a kaleidoscope of icons and colour outdoing even the Catholics.

A walking tour around the Old Town - made difficult by the large cobblestones found in each of the Baltic states - showed many medieval buildings complete with sections of the original city walls and defensive towers. It's not surprising that Tallinn is regarded by many as the most interesting of these three countries - it certainly was with me.

Sadly, Tallinn had been another quick look since, once again, we sailed out in the late afternoon headed for what most people regarded as the highlight of the entire cruise, namely St Petersburg.

(To be continued)...

14

ures

and Pict Dunstable in Maps

Early Early Dunstable in Maps and Pictures Brian Dix.

By Barry Horne and Hornby.

Hornby and Vanessa Illustrated by David s s with 57 illustration page A4 50 of n catio This full-colour publi in the early history those with an interest and gical is essential reading for aeolo of Dunstable. Arch to produce a and development has been combined documentary evidence ed town that was early years of the plann fascinating story of the after 1100 AD. founded by Henry I soon took part in the interest to those who It will be of especial and 80s under the town in the 60s, 70s explanation for excavations of the An . smatic Les Matthews direction of the chari on Friary Field at the es which were found the mysterious cross n expert, using his garde a Dix, Brian time is provided by gardens. knowledge of Medieval of the earliest ary evidence the site ment Using map and docu the Beecroft Estate, has been identified as windmill in England Dunstable be donated to the of this publication will All profits from the sale rds Service. n Archives and Reco Bedfordshire and Luto

By Barry Horne and Brian Dix. Illustrated by David Hornby and Vanessa Hornby.

This full-colour publication of 50 A4 pages with 57 illustrations is essential reading for those with an interest in the early history and development of Dunstable.

Archaeological and documentary evidence has been combined to produce a fascinating story of the early years of the planned town that was founded by Henry I soon after 1100 AD. It will be of especial interest to those who took part in the excavations of the town incheq theue60s, 70s and to80s for ÂŁ13.40, payable by sending a Edlesborough, Obtain your End, Matthews. under the direction ofcopy the Beau charismatic mont, Church Les Barry Horne, to , Beds. LU6 2EP. tablethe Duns An explanation for mysterious crosses which were Horne; Barry from information er Furth found on Friary Field at the time

by Brian 5 221219 0152provided Tel No is bhorne@globalnet.co.uk Dix, a garden expert, using his knowledge of Medieval gardens.

Using map and documentary evidence the site of the earliest windmill in England has been identified as the Beecroft Estate, Dunstable All profits from the sale of this publication will be donated to the Bedfordshire and Luton Archives and Records Service.

Obtain your copy by sending a cheque for ÂŁ13.40, payable to Barry Horne, to: Beaumont, Church End, Edlesborough, Dunstable, Beds. LU6 2EP. Further information from Barry Horne bhorne@globalnet.co.uk Tel No 01525 221219

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Bedfordshire’s Night Sky Looking Up! in October & November 2013 Image: Torben Bjorn Hansen

By Seb Jay

Watch the Sky for 3 Meteor Showers:

October 7th, October 20th-21st and November 16th-17th are your meteor-watching diary dates this autumn. Of the three showers the Leonids on 16th17th November could be the surprise package if the 1000+ meteors-per-hour storm of 1966 is repeated!

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Autumn nights are a great time to go galaxy hunting.

All you need is a pair of binoculars or a small telescope, and a dark location. Up on the Chilterns, away from town lights, is ideal. The Andromeda Galaxy is on show in the early evenings. At 2,500,000 light years from Earth it is one of our closest neighbouring galaxies. Look for an arc of 3 bright stars high up in the east after dark, just below the ‘W’ of Cassiopeia.

The Andromeda Galaxy is located a small distance above the central star in the arc.

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November sees Jupiter climb into the evening sky in the East. At the start of the month it rises by 9pm and is well-placed to view in binoculars or a telescope by 10:30pm. As November progresses so Jupiter rises earlier each evening. By the end of the month it is up above the horizon by 7:30pm. To identify it look for a bright ‘star’ like object in the East in the constellation of Gemini.

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19

What’sBestForYou

m LE

By Martin Lewis

ebay

Bill

By M

It’s the financial nightmares you never thou The ubiquitous giant online auction site eBay may seem a relatively happen that really hurt. So here’s how to fig the top 10 hidden bill perils. simple beast. Yet beneath the shiny shop front there are a host of hidden 1. “My six-year-old spent £3,200 on an iPh secrets enabling you to pay less. Letting youngsters sit on your knee while yo

smartphone or tablet means they’re likely t

It all stems from the fact eBay’s a mammoth marketplace with millions of goods and hordes of buyers competing for the same items. It’s all too easy to get sucked into bidding wars, with your finger quivering on the mouse, and then just overpaying at the last minute.

Yet a host of hidden tools and websites allow you to hone in on hidden uber-deals overlooked by rival bidders. Here are my top eBay buyer’s tricks…

Exploit Speiling Mistakes Typos and errors on eBay are incredibly common.

Of course, that means fewer people searching for things, so the prices you get are rock bottom. A host of mistake spotters, such as www.fatfingers.co.uk, www.goofbid.com and www.bargainchecker.com trawl eBay for all possible spelling mistake combinations which have lower prices. While we’re on it, if you’re selling remember to use spell check.

Find Collection Only Bargains Near You From designer sofas to skis and scooters, sellers often specify items are ‘collection only’. This means fewer competing bidders and serious local bargains.

You can’t yet search for this on eBay, but if you go to my eBay Local Deals Mapper tool www.moneysavingexpert.com/localebay it finds these bargains for you and maps how close they are. There’s also an Android and iPhone app version.

Results can be powerful, such as this from my site user Jen_Jen1985: “Had been looking for a double buggy, but most ended up selling for around £40.

I found one via the Local Deals tool and ended up winning it for £1.24!”

Bag No-Bid 99P Items Often sellers start auctions at 99p or less, hoping a tug of war will break out between buyers. Many items go unspotted and stay at these super-low prices. It’s possible to scour eBay just for these with 99p spotter www.lastminute-auction.com.

20

password which in turnsellcan be pretty expen Double-check delivery charges, as some ers hope to recoup costsRecently, by charging Englandlittle playerextra.

Sam Vesty got sma Though eBay has now set maximum delivery £3,200 bill after his six and eight year olds b virtual farm animals a mountain of food, wi charges for many categories.

Do You Need It?

£70 a pop over three hours. This is just one examples I’ve heard of. It’s disgusting that a allows this, but it happens, so protect yours

Before I go to much further withgoing this, quick If you’re to just let theakids use your tech, to follow.

Protect your password—your kid word of warning about not getting carried away you knowing so change it regularly with bargains. It’s worth without following my money manyour phone’s “app purchases” setting is res tra before you spend cash. needs a password.

Most phones let you do If you’re skint, first ask yourself “Do I need it?, Can to your networkit’s about financial and parent I afford it? Have I checked whether available cheaper elsewhere?!” If the answer with to any of those An alternative iPhones is to delink you is no, don’t buy it. card from your account and buy vouchers in

never go over the top. And, finally, if all goe

you’veCheap been stung by a massive charge due Buy Stolen Goods On The call up and explain. Often they’ll wipe it on

and you’re out’ they did for the r Well, nearly, but great headline, youpolicy—as must admit. dad. but is worth checking This one isn’t actually eBay, - it’s legal via police auction sitepaying www.bumble2. Avoid £150 a month for busting y beeauctions.co.uk. Forces in England and Wales Break your overdraft limit by even £1 and y use this eBay-style site tocharges sell lost property or goods up to £5 a day or, at Clydesdale, up seized from criminals when they can’t find the transaction. It’s very easy to get caught out rightful owner. costly, so ensure you stay in the black. If yo It’s cracking for bicycles,caught among withother a heftythings—for amount of bank charge example a high-spec Specialized bike went will remember a few yearsfor ago £50 I was urging (similar ones were £200 reclaim on eBay). larger items them. Most Some got thousands back. W needs to be collected in person from local nicks.

Some smaller items can be delivered, though check postage prices before buying.

Find Auctions Closing In The Dead Of Night Listings that finish at anti-social times often get fewer bids (a warning for sellers there too). Pick a time slot and a www.baycrazy.com’s Night Time Bargain Searcher cruises for these vampiric bargains.

If you don’t fancy burning the midnight oil, combine this trick with auto-bidding tools on the next page, which can bid on your behalf while you’re deep in the land of nod.

martin EWIS

business & finance 

l Shock Martin Lewis

If you’ve had charges and they’ve put in financial hardship, you may still be able to reclaim. Full, step-by-step help at www.moneysacvingexpert.com/bankcharges.

ou use your to know your nsive.

acked with a bought their ith real cash at e of the countless a kids’ game self.

3. Beware traps offering £15 off your next purchase with an online discount Shockingly, even sites like The Trainline and Ticketmaster have reportedly made an extra 30 pieces of silver by allowing membership clubs like Shopper Discounts to push these offers once you’ve bought stuff. Many have been caught out, as MoneySavingExpert.com forum user Sweetie27 wrote: Bought a train ticket and must have clicked a link, as for two years Shopper Discounts has been taking £10/mth from my account, now totalling “300. I did not know anything about this and am totally gutted.”

, there are tips ds may know it y. Plus ensure stricted, so it this. Also speak Communications about these have marginally improved tal controls. since then but, be very careful—my view is these aren’t worth signing up to. ur credit/debit

nstead. Then it’ll es wrong and e to the kids, do a ‘one strike rugby-playing

your overdraft

you can face p to £35 a t, but extremely ou have been es, many of you g people to While a decision

Web players now pump out programmes with image quality rivalling Sky and Virgin. Yet this hoovers up data and many broadband packages have data limits. You can be charged up to £5 per 5GB (about two HD films) if you’re over your limit. Consider an unlimited package, normally only a couple of quid a month more expensive.

account for her big day. Two da £6,000 of it to pay off her credit there was a repayment plan in p risk, the golden rule is to simply different financial institutions to Buy Stolen goods… legally

Police forces use an eBay-style s Bumblebeeauctions.co.uk, to se seized from criminals when they Many smartphone apps routinely check for updates and downloads in the background and this can lead to monster rightful owners. fees when abroad. Watching TV, videos or even streaming You pick them up in person from music is worse. delivered. Great deals are possi Prices aren’t regulated outside Europe, so turn 3G off. One Some of the tasty bargains we f specialised mountain bike for £5 of my users got stung with a £3,000 bill just for a few emails and maps on a trip to India and the USA and leaving about £200 on eBay) and a Wii d 6. “I got a £3,000 holiday mobile data bill.”

ught would in the Supreme Court put an end to that, rumours of the ght back against death of bank charges reclaiming have been greatly exaggerated.

hone game”.

5. Watch TV online? Don’t pay a hidden £5 per film

4. Beware of debit card stealth charges when abroad.

their data roaming on whilst not using it.

7. Don’t ‘nearly’ repay cards in full—you’ll get an unexpected slap…

Repay credit cards in full and you usually don’t pay any interest. Yet if you owe £5,000 and repay £4,999 many cards will still charge you that month’s interest on the whole £5,000.

You won’t find every force on th Scotland and Northern Ireland a usually get items delivered anyw items).

Urgent—check your Clubcard a

After my team and I pointed ou reporting Clubcard vouchers go 8. Beware of mobile voicemail which can be 35p a minute accounts, it asked police to inve data. Some people have lost hu Voicemail isn’t always free. Many firms charge a hideous vouchers, so check your online a 35p a minute if you call it when you’ve used your inclusive vouchers are missing, or your pe minutes (or from abroad). It’s best to keep track of your have changed, contact Tesco’s C spending, or maybe turn it off whilst you’re on holiday. team on 0800 591 688.

9. Fixed your energy price? Watch for pricey ‘go-to’ tariffs.

Once a fixed energy tariff ends, you slide onto providers’ uncompetitive standard tariffs—up to £260/year more than the cheapest. So diarise when it ends and switch again or join my new Cheap Energy Club at www.moneysavingexpert.com/CheapEnegryClub which will do it for you.

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What’sBestForYou Build Amazon 75% bargain basements Of course, eBay isn’t the only fruit. Amazon’s range and selection is huge, and therefore it is impossible for everyone to see everything. Yet there’s a trick you can use to manipulate its URLs (web addresses) to build section pages organised purely by the biggest discounts, for example, beauty discounted by more than 75% or TVs by 25%.

You can do this by carefully reconstructing its links with a bit of savvy. Easier, I’ve built a tool that does it for you—just go to www.moneysavingexpert.com/ amazon, put in what you’re looking for and how big a discount you want and it builds the page instantly.

Be an eBay sniper…

Spotted something you want to buy on eBay? Bid too early and rival buyers bid back, forcing the price upwards. Sniping tools auto-bid for you in the last 10 seconds to seal cheaper deals. Top free auction snipers include Goofbid.com and www.gixen.com.

A word of warning though - you need to give sniping sites your eBay password for them to work, which is a security concern. If you do sign up, never use the same password for eBay as you do for other accounts such as banks or email.

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Reclaim 14 years of lost music Buy CDs/vinyl from Amazon and its Auto rip services mean you can not get the MP3s for nothing. Yet did you know this works for anything bought since 1999? So you can recover years worth of music from CDs you may have lost or damaged. To check for lost music, just log on to Amazon.co.uk’s Cloud Player to see what music’s in there - you can then stream or download it. In 10 minutes, one member of my team found 150 albums going back 13 years.

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23

ners View

. A Pensio .. s n r e c n o C Aged

The

F

ood banks are not an 'aged concern' because the food banks were formed by the Trussell Trust for those, who in these hard times, found themselves without a job and quite a long delay before they obtained the credits they were due from the benefits scheme. The original idea was to tide a person, or family, over a lean financial period where, in a lot of cases, the money was not readily available to feed oneself or family. The maximum number of food bank supplies to any one person is three, by then, it was hoped that benefits would be available to take care of the problem of not being able to purchase food without borrowing money to do so.

That is how it was, but things have changed over the last seven months since I became a volunteer working in the Dunstable & surrounding area's of Bedfordshire. The rules remain the same but the conditions have worsened as far as claimants are

Foodbank concerned, due to benefit cuts , the need to pay a portion of council tax, where at one time this was not required and other various caps and cuts to the benefits schemes means that ever more are using food banks to help them feed themselves and their families.

When we first started our food bank in the Dunstable Downside area, on some days nobody would come in with a voucher for food, this was back in March this year, at today's session we were working the whole of our opening time. As it is with all such schemes the poorer members of the working class are those who make up the most of our customers.

It was ever thus, Look at all our past National financial calamities. It is the poorer members of the public who suffer, ask anyone who was around in the 1930's, maybe your grandparents were the ones who were promised 'A land fit for hero's to live in' found that they were forced to sell their furniture and other household goods

By Mike Newman

to put food on the table.

They relied on charity, the same as we do today.

Food banks are a necessity at the present time and will be for a considerable time to come. To feed those with insufficient income to feed themselves or family, then charity is the only answer and the food bank is a charity. It relies on its food supplies from donations from people like you either donating food or money with which to purchase food and there is no doubt that people, local people, do support the food bank principles. Collections are made at the local super markets, you may have seen them in operation, there have been several collections over the last few months. Next time you see one perhaps you would consider buying a couple of extra tins or donate some cash. Or if you want to know more, phone 01582 248410 you will be helping someone, or a family, who because of governments austerity at all costs, cannot help themselves.

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.

24

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01525 715208 SoThe many suffercountries from digestive UKpeople is one these of the days top three in the difficulties; such incidence as bloating, pain, world for issues the highest of stomach allergy! An constipation, diarrhoea and flatulence have almost estimated 21 million adults in the UK suffer become commonplace. from at least one allergy and an estimated 10 The first thing must do,than if you have had any of million sufferyou from more one. these symptoms for more than a couple of weeks, orThese they seem be getting to seebyyour GP. are thetolatest startlingworse, figuresisgiven If Allergy you areUK, thenbut given diagnosis of IBStoand there you amay be surprised learn are nothe other underlying are many that figure of peopleissues, affectedthere adversely by things can doand for yourself to help themay situation, food,you chemicals airborne substances be whether or notasyou arefigures given medication. much higher, these only cover those suffering from a true allergy, when many are

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Remember that stress a major trigger for actually suffering fromisa often different type of allergic digestive so it’s important to try and reactiondisturbance, known as ‘intolerance ‘or ‘sensitivity’. minimize, deal withvariety stressful situations.inOften, This can or give a wide of symptoms, stress can’t be avoided (we dark NEEDcircles an amount of cluding fatigue, joint pain, under the stress order to function properly butsymptoms when we eyes,innight sweats, migraine, digestive have or or deal with it ineffectively suchtoo as much bloating diarrhoea, skin problemsit can cause so look formore. a form of relaxation suchproblems), as eczema and many that suits you. meditation, hypnotherapy, massage, floating, perhaps you needup counselling As theseorsymptoms can take to 72 hourstotodeal with a specific issue. show themselves, it can sometimes be difficult

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In The Garden

A beginners guide to…

Now is the time to...

Make A Plan!

As we creep into Autumn it is a great time to make a plan for next year's garden and you don't need to be a professional landscaper to do it!

Nearly everyone has access to a digital camera or phone camera, either our own or a helpful family member. If you are lucky enough to have an upstairs room that overlooks your entire garden, take a photograph and print it out as large as possible on normal office paper.

If not you can still take a series of pictures and use them for different areas, or draw a rough sketch.

Now use your printout or drawing to mark where there are gaps in your planting, while it is still fresh in your mind from time in your garden during the summer

months. Note where you needed more colour, places where plants are not thriving and parts of the garden that would be better off hidden.

You may think you will remember what you had in mind when next Spring comes around but you will thank yourself for this handy reminder. Now think of the colours you would like to see and research the plants to buy in the Spring or you can even buy the seeds now.

sheds, statues and water features, gazebos and pergola. With a birds eye view of your garden you can see where these will fit best. If you are planning to make a pond you will need to do this when the ground is still soft before the hard frosts hit otherwise digging can be impossible November time is great and March if we are lucky.

Finally don't forget that bright coloured pots and winter flowering pansies can still add This is also the time to splashes of colour in the plan more ambitious projects such as decking, darker months, plant patios and ponds as well them before the end of November. as purchases such as

Other jobs to be getting on with...

October

• Clear up fallen leaves regularly • Cut back perennials • Divide herbaceous perennials for more plants • Move tender plants to green house • Harvest fruit • Prune climbing roses • Give the lawn its last mow

November

• Protect outdoor containers with bubble wrap or fleece • Plant tulip bulbs ready for Spring • Put out bird food 28

Planning For Autumn Good planning and preparation can make this time of year a dramatic moment in the garden, but if you feel your outside space lacks autumn pizzazz, the work for next year’s spectacle begins right now.

You still have time to plant late flowering herbaceous perennials and hardy grasses, both of which have beautiful flowers in bloom right now, but aim to do this at the beginning of October. Experiment with vivid red Helenium such as 'Rubinzwerg' which look fantastic when planted in front of the biscuit coloured flower spikes of Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster', or try the much lower, but no less dramatic double pink flowers of Colchicum 'Water lily' towards the front of the border.

I would challenge anyone who does not favour grasses to find another species which offers colour and texture to match this diverse range of plants. As I sit in the autumn garden right now, perched on a cold metal bench, I can admire the wonderful tall arching stems of Stipa gigantea swaying in the gentle breeze. Standing proud since July, this majestic grass will carry on performing until the heavy snow flattens the delicate oat-like flower spikes.

If the subtlety of the grassy flowers are not enough to sustain your need for autumn colour, then try Aster 'October Skies' for a splash of late season lilac. The daisy like flowers are produced in abundance over a long period of time, and the great news is that it’s happy growing on dry poor soil in sun or even part shade. It won't get much bigger than 45cm tall so doesn’t need staking and the colours seem to intensify as the light levels fall.

As we progress further into the month, the bright yellows, oranges and reds synonymous with October, slowly deepen before fading to a muddy brown.

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auto Biographies ŠKODA Rapid 1.6 TDI Elegance

By Tim Barnes-Clay www.carwriteups.co.uk

ps

T

he new comfortable behind the wheel too; the height adjustable seating andhatchback from ŠKODA has space for fivetoo; the height adjustable adaptable reach/rake steering column makes up and, in 1.6 TDI guise, seating and adaptable reach/ this possible.

can extract up to 64.2mpg out rake steering column makes THIS MOTOR is of a tank. Also, with emissions this possible.

If you more opt for budget the Elegance modelofyou’ll also the car is cost- auto just 114g/km, benefitthan from 16-inch alloys, cornering front effective tofog run as a company BIOGRAPHIES If you opt for the Elegance bling, but vehicle. modelRapid you’ll lamps, rear electric windows, and chrome ŠKODA 1.6also TDI benefit Elegancefrom 16-inch alloys, cornering that in itself is

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Writer interior detailing. But no matter which variant www.carwriteups.co.uk @carwriteups When to it comes front fog lamps, rear electric of the no Rapidproblem. you drive, you’ll find access the to thrills and spills the ŠKODA Rapid isn’t re- windows, and chrome interior THIS MOTOR is more budget than bling; but boot easy and the load space square and ally quite as speedy as its name that detailing.

But no matter which in itself is no problem. practical in this, the seventh car suggests. in ŠKODA’s new hatchback ŠKODA has drive, space for The oil-burner under Thevariant of thefrom Rapid you and, in 1.6 TDI guise, can extract up to award-winning range. the bonnet of the Czech-made five-up you’ll find access to the boot 64.2mpg out of a tank. Also, with emissions of

motor powers it from rest to 62mph in 10.6 seconds and Crucially, With Benefit in Kind (BIK) ratings upwards to 118mph. It’s fairly from only 14 percent, the ŠKODA Rapid is slow going, and with only five expected to provide a shot in the gears arm it’s to annoyingly the easy to FAST FACTS brand’s rapidly growing fleet sales.

On-thecrunch the gearstick up into a speed: 118 mph road Max pricing starts from £12,900 for the Rapidsixth cog. non-existent 0-62 mph: 10.6 secs 1.2-litre 75PS in entry level S trim, rising to Combined mpg: 64.2 As 105PS well as the £17,850 for1568cc the 4Rapid 1.6 TDI CR in less than prompt Engine: cylinder performance the Rapid feels flagship Elegance 16 valvespec. turbo diesel skittish at motorway speeds Max. power (bhp): and the steering is too light to 103 at 4400 rpm inspire confidence. The plastic Max. torque (lb/ft): trim is disappointing compared 184 at 1500 - 2500 rpm with, say, the more executiveCO2: 114 g/km focused ŠKODA Superb but, in its favour the flagship ‘EleFASTPrice: FACTS£17,850 on the road

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PROS ‘N’ CONS

Max speed: 118 mph PROS & CONS

gance’ grade, Economical √ on test here, come stacked Stacked with kit √ with kit.

enthit comes car intoŠKODA’s awardWhen thrills and spills the ŠKODA Rapid isn’t really quite as speedy as its name winning range. suggests. The oil-burner under the bonnet of the Czech-made motor powers it from rest to Crucially, Benefit in 62mph in 10.6With seconds and upwards to 118mph.

It’s fairly slow going, andonly with only Kind (BIK) ratings from five gears it’s annoyingly easy to crunch the 14 percent, the ŠKODA gearstick up into a non-existent sixth Rapid cog. is expected to provide a shot

As well as the less than prompt performance in the arm to the brand’s the Rapid feels skittish at motorway speeds and the steering is too light to inspire rapidly growing fleet sales. confidence.

The plastic trim isstarts disappointing On-the-road pricing from compared with, say, the more executive£12,900 the but, Rapid focused ŠKODAfor Superb in its1.2-lifavour the flagship ‘Elegance’ grade, level on testShere, tre 75PS in entry trim,does come stacked with kit.

wheel controls, Bluetooth and air conditioning. It’s easy to get

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Key features cruise control; electrically 1.6 TDI include CR 105PS in flagship heated door mirrors, multi-function steering Elegance spec. wheel controls, Bluetooth and air conditioning. does It’s easy to get comfortable behind the wheel

Economical √ secs 0-62 mph: 10.6 Practical load area √ Stacked with kit √ Combined mpg: 64.2 Key features include cruise Practical load area √ Less than ’rapid’ control; electrically heated door Engine: 1568 cc 16 value 4 Less than ’rapid’ performance X performance X mirrors, multi-function steering cylinder diesel Interior turbo plastics X Interior plastics X

Max. power (bhp): 30 103 at 4400 rpm Max. torque (lb/ft):

easy andthe the space square just 114g/km, carload is cost-effective to run as a company vehicle. in this, the sevand practical

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31

Welly!

Wintry wet weather has us reaching for our wellies, but how much thought do we give them really? Hard-working wellies deserve a bit of TLC now and then.

First things first. A lot of wellies split at the heel seam, and this is because we insist on removing them using a step or our other foot to prise them off. Invest in a proper bootremover. It will preserve the life of your wellies and make them much easier to take-off.

CLEAN THEM. Yes - really. How often do you put your boots away still clogged with mud? Take the time to rinse them with clean water then spray them with a boot protector. If your wellies are the sort with a zip, make sure the zip is clean and free-running before storing the boots. Spray the zip with a

silicone spray and they’ll last for years.

Store them properly in a cool dry place.

Don’t dry kid’s wellies on a radiator as

they will become brittle and perish. Don’t leave them in a freezing greenhouse or shed either. A boot rack is great, because it lets you store them upside down (less chance of spiders or mice taking up residence!) and allows the air to circulate – meaning they won’t smell.

Finally, there are some terrific, colourful and fashionable wellies on the market today, so there’s no excuse not to take the kids puddle-jumping. Go on, give it some welly!

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33

The Magic Of Fireworks F

ireworks date back to the 7th century and are thought to have been invented in China. The first fireworks in England were displayed at the wedding of King Henry VII in 1486. Now, as well as being an integral part of Bonfire Night celebrations, fireworks can often be seen at New Year, Birthday and Wedding celebrations and frequently form the finale for major events.

Fireworks come in many shapes and sizes and new types are being created all the time. Some of the many varieties are: sparklers, cakes, firecrackers, cherry bombs, rockets, jumping jacks and Catherine wheels.

A rocket can reach speeds of 150mph and its shell can reach as high as 200 metres. A sparkler burns at a temperature over 15 times the boiling point of water.

The different effects created by fireworks have names such as ring, spider, peony, palm and horsetail. The variety of colours and noises also thrill many of us.

There are now a rainbow of colours and sounds that include bangs, crackles, humming and whistles.

So what happens within a firework to cause us such excitement?

Each firework is a precisely formed assembly of chemicals and fuel, carefully calibrated to produce a particular effect.

Fireworks consist of stars, small clay or dough-like lumps or cubes 3 to 4 cm in diameter, packed into cardboard compartments within the firework shell.

Stars contain a blend of oxidizing agent, reducing agent, metal salt colouring agent and binders. When ignited, the stars produce both sound and light effects.

The power needed to lift each firework into the air is provided by the highly exothermic combustion of black powder. The key to firework success is to trap the heat and gas in the bottom of the shell, which is positioned in a launch tube or mortar, until the trapped gas pressure builds to such a force that when it escapes, it hurls the firework high into the air.

A firework is ignited by lighting the main fuse. This simultaneously starts both the fast action fuse, and the time delay fuse.

The flight of the firework is powered by a fast burning 34

wick. Where the wick ends, it meets the high explosive components of the firework. In this second stage, there is an instantaneous detonation producing both a loud explosion and a bright flash of colour.

The black powder lift-charge is calculated to exhaust itself precisely when the slow-burning, time-delay fuse reaches the first compartment packed with lightproducing stars and black powder.

The tremendous booms heard are the result of the rapid release of energy into the air, causing the air to expand faster than the speed of sound which produces a shock wave - a sonic boom

Firework Laws

November 5th is synonymous with fireworks, bonfires and effigies of Guy Fawkes. Hot soup and jacket potato teas, scarves and woolly gloves and excited children all want to be part of late night fun.

For further information: Make sure that you understand the laws, though, surrounding fireworks if you’re planning on dowww.saferfireworks.com/ ing your own rather than going to an organized http://www.hse.gov.uk/ event. explosives/fireworks/ The law says you must not set off, or throw fireworks (including sparklers) inwww.gov.uk/fireworks-the-la the street or other public places. Fireworks must not be set off between 11pm and 7am. The exceptions are Bonfire Night when the cutoff is midnight; New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year when the cutoff is extended until 1am.

You can be fined up to £5,000 and/or imprisoned for 3 months for buying or using fireworks illegally, as well as getting an on the spot fine of £80 so check the rules, stay safe and enjoy the fun!

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The Poppy’s Appeal How the humble poppy came to symbolise remembrance and raise millions to help war veterans 2014 marks the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War. More than nine million soldiers were killed during the four-year conflict. Much of the worst fighting took place in Flanders, the western part of Belgium. The whole area was completely devastated, with homes, farms, roads and trees all completely destroyed. The land became a bleak, muddy graveyard for the thousands of soldiers who fell there.

One plant, however, thrived in the disturbed soil and that, of course, was the poppy. Year after year, as the warm weather arrived, the poppies bloomed and turned the bare ground into a sea of red. Nowadays, we are all familiar with the poppy as a symbol of remembrance and a way to raise funds to support veterans.

But how did the iconic flower make the journey from the fields to our lapels?

It all began with Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, a Canadian physician who fought in Flanders. In May 1915, his friend, a fellow soldier, was killed in action. Looking at the poppies growing alongside his grave moved McCrae to write the poem ‘In Flanders Fields’, which was later published in Punch magazine.

The idea to use the poppy as a symbol of remembrance came from an American professor and YWCA worker, Moina Michael, in 1918.

She wrote a poem in reply to McCrae’s called ‘We Shall Keep the Faith’ and started to sell silk poppies. The idea was adopted by the Ameri-

40

can Legion in 1920 and she became known as ‘The Poppy Lady’.

In 1921, Anna E Guerin started making artificial poppies in France and gained the support of Field Marshal Douglas Haig, founder of the Royal British Legion.

The first poppy appeal was held on Armistice Day 1921. It was hugely popular and, despite a recommended selling price of threepence per poppy, single petals sold for £5. In all, the appeal raised £106,000 – that’s nearly £30 million in today’s terms!

Some people choose to wear a white poppy, either instead of or alongside a traditional red one. This symbolises pacifism and remembers the civilians killed in war, as well as the soldiers. The idea was initially put forward in 1926 by the No More War Movement, and the first white poppies were sold by the Cooperative Women’s Guild in 1933. They are now distributed by the Peace Pledge Union, a British pacifist non-governmental organisation that works for a world without war.

And finally, did you know that there is also a purple poppy? It commemorates the animals that have been victims of war and raises money for Animal Aid.

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ses 3 Courses .95 £25.95 (Fri-Sat) ourse £9 s £11.

95 Starters *** tarts

at Melon with Prawns Rose Mary sauce t 4:30 1:30p(v)m pm ((v)laSpinach &&ricotta on filo pastry with sweet chilli st ord

e

2 Courses £14.95 3 Courses £16.95

(Sunday Lunch with live music - John Lee)

***

Starters

(v) Melon & prawns with Marie-rose sauce (v)Spinach & Ricotta on a filo pastry with sweet chilli sauce (v) Roasted beetroot with goats cheese glazed in balsamic, salad leaves Chicken liver mousse with orange zest ,garlic toast (V) Roasted butter nut veloute, cream fraîche

) (v) Roasted beetroot withrsgoats cheese glazed in balsamic, salad leaves ok a ta Chicken liver mousse with orange zest ,garlic toast ble Te(V) Roasted butternut veloute, cream fraîche l: 0158 ezjerom 2 603 e.co.uk 31 w Main ww.chcourse 0 ezjerom e.cosauce, Grilled Fillet of Salmon with paprika hollandaise Main course .uk potatoes & vegetables Toulouse sausages in red wine and onions, mash potatoes & vegetables Braised lamb shank with onions -rosemary jus, potatoes & vegetables (v) Tomato & mozzarella ravioli in a light cream and tomato sauce (v) Tomato and mozzarella ravioli in a light cream tomato sauce Roast Turkey breast with cranberry sauce, all trimmings, potatoes Roast Turkey breast with cranberry sauce, all trimmings, potatoes & Vegetables & Vegetables Grilled Salmon with paprika hollandaise sauce , potatoes & vegetables Grilled sirloin steak with brandy peppercorn sauce, potatoes & vegetables Grilled sirloin steak with brandy peppercorn sauce, potatoes & vegetables

***

***

***

(sup £2.00)

Jerome's Vanilla cream brûle Selection of cheese & biscuits with spiced Pear (gluten free biscuits available) Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Chocolate trilogies (black, milk & white) (gluten free) Assorted Ice cream & sorbet Strawberry jelly with fresh fruit (gluten and dairy free)

Desserts

Desserts

***

***

Jerome's Vanilla cream brûle Selection of cheese & biscuits with spiced Pear (gluten free biscuits available) Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Chocolate trilogies (black, milk & white) (gluten free) Assorted Ice cream & sorbet Strawberry jelly with fresh fruit (gluten and dairy free)

Gluten free bread available on request

www.thevinemagazine.co.uk On The Good Food Guide 2014

41

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

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

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

                                  Answers on       page 46                C E  S  A M B L R           Unscramble the letters  to find types of Car Brands.    2 Unscramble the letters to find the names of types of    Each oneUnscramble has an extra letter.

Find something that you will find on your CAR.      theone letters to find types of Car Brands. car. Each has an extra letter:      WEGODD Find something you will find on your car.   Each one has an extra letter. Find something that you will find on      XLUSIE 9  7 6   WEGODD  UBSAUNR    8    SNSADIN    XLUSIE   2 9 AZWAMD   UBSAUNR DUWAI  3 SNSADIN

Sudoku 数独 1 6

7

9 2 6

8 4

3

C

S

5 6

R

A

M

B

L

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AZWAMD

7

Each row, column and 3x3 box must contain the numbers 1 to 9 just once. This can be done by applying logic -you don’t have to guess!

Crossword

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43

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 charities such aasweek quizzes, race nights, stalls ST MARY’S POPPY PROM 6.00pm – 7.30pm Ages 7 – from 10 eventsonce in the front bar at the WATLING STREET CLUB at Carnivals Saturday 9th November, 7.30pm Tel: Zoe Hurry01582 666942 etc.

Conservative Club, High street North However, there is more to Orbit than the comradeship We are an independent social club for ex-Rotarians and One of the musical highlights of the Dunstable and SHOW teamwork organising fundraising similarly people and have forFARM ART year forminded Music at St Mary’s is thebeen in existence TOWN IN involved Forinmore information pleaseevents. contact The emphasis is very much on having fun in all their nearly 3 years.

We are named ‘The Watling Street Club’ Poppy Prom, Concert, CHEDDINGTON: Sandy on 07813 262556 activities including a wide range of social pursuits such as as our members form a link along the Watling Street.

In aid ofevery St Mary’s, Eatonevening Bray, and Eight artists showingarchery, paintings, tex- bowling, cinema/theatres, guided walks, 10-pin We meet Thursday at the ‘Old Hunter’s Help for Heroes. for a meal and speaker.tiles, ceramics, sculpture, woodcarvCOMMON progressive meals etc.FRIENDS The club OF planSTUDHAM events to suit all Lodge’ Whipsnade Themembers evening combines the solemnity ing, woodcraft, areare a friendly,voluntary budgets and many ofWe them free or at a low cost.group New are welcome.

For more information of words and music01582 from The Festival contemporary basketry and jewellery. whose aim is to conserve,maintain Membership is only £10 annually. contact John Stevens 668033 Meetings third Tuesdays each of Remembrance Plus mulled wine, mince piesare andon the first and and promote Studhamof Common as D.A.W.G. SOCIAL CLUB month at the Dunstable Rugby Club, Bedford , for with the joyful music of The Last Christmas a haven for wildlife andRoad a place Houghton Regis 8pm.

You’ll be guaranteed a warm We are of a small and friendly Dunstable social Night the Proms.

This year’s musi-based cake! everyone to enjoy.For this purpose group onceSouth a month a wide variety of ciansmeeting will be the Bedswith Concert One weekend only:welcome.

Friday 22, we meet as a work party on the Contact Mark on 01582 539379, speakers winter outdoor events and 23, Sunday 24 November Band, Stduring Mary’sthe Choir andand Dagnall Saturday third Saturday of each month (exJulie on 01582 535761 www.orbitclub.org.uk/dunstable visits during the summer.

Each year we also arrange two Community Choir along with soloists, 2013: 10am – cept Dec.) The work is not onerous evenings with a meal and professional entertainment.

Min-Min Peaker and Barbara Morton. and weBRIDGE enjoy the CLUB exercise and the DUNSTABLE We would welcome new members (couples5pm and singles).

The programme includes Town Farm, Cheddington, Near good company –and a picnic lunch For further information andmusic a free by visit why6 not contact We meet every Monday (except bank holidays) inonChews Eric on Coates, William Walton, Mozart, Tring, LU7 0TT is provided!

Details from Pam Brian 01525 754189.

House in High Street South, Dunstable, from 1pm to Handel, Grieg as well as favourites Please park on High Street – not in 01582 872608 5pm. We would welcome new members of all standards DUNSTABLE GARDEN from The Last Night of the Proms by CLUB Town Farm. and you do not need a partner.

Elgar, Henry Wood, Free entry. Donations for If refreshanyone is interested pleaseBREATHEASY call: 01582 664485 Dunstable Garden ClubArne meetand on Parry. the second Monday Do you suffer from a lung condition?

It will be a wonderful ments inArmy aid of Rennie Grove evening of each month atevening 7.30pmofat the Salvation Then why not come and join our Community Hall,and BullisPond Dunstable.

The Club entertainment likelyLane, to attract a Hospice Care.

BLOWS DOWNS CONSERVATION GROUP has existence for many years and maintaining local Support group - breatheasy - on sellbeen out in audience.

Join our friendly guided walk at blows downs dunstable a Hurry steady to membership.

The subscription is only £10 per BRAY TAVERNERS Part of the British lung foundation. get your tickets, priced EATON sunday July 3rd. the walk will be a short 2 miles but unduyear whichand entitles to attend eight winter BRIDGE CLUB We meet onway the we 2ndtalk Thursday of £12.50 £10, members from the Box Office, lating, at a leisurly pace. on the about the meetings with speakers and a selection of summer monthtrust at peter newton 01525 222283 and The club Friday even-of thisthe flora and fauna wildlife owned naturepavilion reserve outings from May onwards to various interesting andmeets every whichatwill area of tesco) the chalk pits where wild 2 - 4pm carersthe also don’t forget to bring your flags. ing from 7.30-10.30pm theinclude the(Behind well-known garden venues. should be in abundance. welcome Methodist Eaton Bray High Visitors are very welcome at £2 each so why not comeChurch, orchids at the far end ofAsHalf lane , dunstable at 3pm. wellmoon as supporting each other we EXHIBITION SALEof OFthe ART & CRAFT to play bridge. along and meet&some members whoSt. would loveduplicateMeet further details, tony bliss 01582 704664.

Village Hall, Sundon Road, have a variety of speakers and also to see fresh faces. £1 for members, £2Tel. forfor visitors.

Harlington. arrange day trips out.

CHILTERN CEILIDHSTel: 01525 221779 19th October10.30am-5pm New members most welcome Chiltern Adults Ceilidhs50p.

- a regular ceilidh/barn dance on the Children free More info phone michael on THE BOGTROTTERS 2nd Friday of the All ages welcome, no experiLocal artists andmonth. craftspeople will be St Fremund’s Church 01582 602348 Theband Bogtrotters (Dunstable and ence required and live musictheir fromwork our house exhibiting and displaying District Walking and Hostelling every month!

The dances start at 8pm open at Westfield Road, at our Annual Exhibition, many items(doors THEDunstable HEALING TRUST Group) are a group of about 90 walk7.30pm) and tickets £7–(£5 conc) under 10s of which will be forare sale ideal for with ers, Ardley Hill School, Lowther Road, hikers and hostellers.

We run a getting in free.

Venue: The Polish Club, Albion street, those looking for something a little Dunstable, LU6 3AZ surprisingly diverse range of activities, Dunstable, each Thursday evening, different01582 for Birthday/ 7.30 - 9pm. No charge, donations Contact: 475655, including half and full day walks, Christmas presents etc.

Then relax accepted. NFSH contact Pam Hill on email: chilternceilidhs@googlmail.com or visit our hostelling trips, meals and evening and chat over a nice cup of tea 01582 606182. website: www.chilternceilidhs.info activities. and slice of homemade cake. Items Come for interest or healing.

THE needlework, BOGTROTTERS include paintings, jewel- New members are always welcome.

Prospective members are invited to lery, woodturning, pottery and card Contact: Mrs Nicola Talbot The Bogtrotters (Dunstable and District Walking and HosTODDINGTON HELPING HANDS get hikers in touch making to name a few.

Our guest telling Group) are abut group of about 90 walkers, andvia the website, give us 01582604847 We are a group of about 30 volunartist this year will be contemporary a ring or just turn up to an event or hostellers. We run a surprisingly diverse range of activities, teers who provide lifts to the docadmin@dunstableswimmingpools.co.uk artist Tina walk. including half Ashton. and full day walks, hostelling trips, meals and tors, dentists, hospitals, hairdressers Enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk etc for the residents of Toddington, evening activities.

TOTTERNHOE BROWNIES www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk New1ST members are always welcome.

Prospective members Chalgrave, Wingfield and Tebworth. are invited to get in touchsale via the website, give01582 us a ring or Sue or Julian Jumble 865966 We also carry out the delivery of just turn26th up to an event10am or walk.

October – 1pMK prescriptions, shopping and general enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk The Methodist Church BREAKOUT SOCIAL CLUB errand running to those who are not www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk Dunstable Town Centre We are a club for the over forty fives, able to do so themselves.

01582 865966 Julian You can alsoSue joinorour small Brownie not a singles club but a social club During the last quarter we comPack ‘only down the hill to Totpeople who enjoy going out but pleted in excess of 400 jobs in the HEALING TRUSTfor ternhoe’ If THE you are interested come are on their own, where they can local community.

Ardley Lowther each alongHill forSchool, an evening andRoad, find Dunstable, meet like-minded people, with a We now urgently need more volunThursday evening, 7.30 9pm.

No charge, donations out how much fun you can have. varied monthly programme covering teer drivers. accepted. contact Pam Hill on Spaces NFSH available Disco’s, Pub lunch’s, walks, parties Tel: 01525 633660 01582 606182.

Come for interest Tuesday Evening ‘s term time or healing. and much, much more, we meet

HALL FOR HIRE Regular slots available HALL HIRE or for FOR family parties

44

DUNSTABLE NETBALL CLUB The Club’s objective is to foster and promote the sport of netball, providing opportunities for recreation 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) TEA TIME TALES Priory House Heritage Centre Tel: 01582 890270 Local History Talks with Tea/Coffee Thursday 2.30pm, - 4.00pm £4.50 per person October 3rd Rembrandt, The man and his art October 17th Jane Austin - 200 years since the publication of Pride and Prejudice November 7th ‘Clothed with the sun - Joanna Southcott, Religious Prophetess.

November 21st A Walk through Dunstable Priory DUNSTABLE SENIOR CITIZENS What age would you like to live to?

Would you like to live it with Dignity, Financial peace of mind, With a voice We are a local group fighting the fight for the over 50’s Interested in finding out more?

Come to a meeting We meet the last Thursday of each month at 2pm In the Social club of The Catholic

Church in West Street Dunstable Or call for more information on 01582 534357

CHILTERN GATEWAY CENTRE 50 things Activities

6th October & 3rd November 2pm - 3pm FREE EVENT Bring the kids and join us on the first Sunday of the month get involve with National Trusts 50 thing to do before your 11 and ¾.

Each Sunday you’ll get to cross another fantastic activity off you list and get outdoors and discover something new! We’ll be taking the kids to explore outdoors so remember to dress for the weather.

Halloween Happenings

28th October - 29th October 12pm - 2pm All Tickets £2.00 Halloween Family Fun at the Chilterns Gateway Centre.

Come along and join in the fun.

Make a spooky mask, creepy spider or witches hat and much more. Give apple bobbing a try or if you dare try out our feely boxes.

September.

To follow the wonderful display of flowers in Dunstable this summer, free daffodil bulbs are available to groups to plant now and provide a burst of colour next Spring.

Enquiries - Mary Chapman - 01582 603710.

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.

KINGSBURY BOWLS CLUB is a small friendly club situated in east Dunstable under the shadow of Blows Downs.

The Green is open to the public from Wednesday to Friday until September, 2-00pm to 4-00pm and 6-00pm to Dusk – at a reasonable fee. Come For Information: and try a new sport – the only dress Chilterns Gateway Centre Shop, requirement is flat-soled footwear.

Bowls and all other equipment is 01582 500925, available at the Green. www.kingsburybowls.weebly.com DUNSTABLE GARDEN CLUB This lovely summer has been DUNSTABLE BRIDGE CLUB enjoyed by members and friends We meet every Monday (except on four enjoyable and beautibank holidays) in Chews House in ful garden outings - with a visit to High Street South, Dunstable, from Waterperry Gardens to come on 1pm to 5pm. We would welcome 17th September. Our Winter meetnew members of all standards and ings commence on 9th September you do not need a partner. with the AGM, plant exchange If anyone is interested please call: and refreshments. In October the 01582 664485 illustrated talk is ‘A Collection of Iris’ and in November ‘Alpines and Alpine Troughs’. All meetings are held on 2nd Monday of the month in the Salvation Army Hall, Bull Pond Lane, Dunstable and start at 7.30 pm. Visitors welcome at £2 - to join the annual fee is £10.

Some members have been actively supporting ‘Dunstable in Bloom’ - helping to plant and maintain the new Physic Garden in Priory Gardens; the ‘Incredible Edible’ project at Katherine Drive where a neglected area is now full of raised vegetable beds to be enjoyed by the local community. The Club is also donating one year’s free membership to the winners of Best Front Garden; Best Allotment; Best Hanging baskets - results to be announced in

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Did you know there’s a very special gift shop in Toddington that donates ALL its profits to Charity?

GIFTS • CARDS • JEWELLERY • BEAUTY PRODUCTS & MUCH MORE

Please support us & visit The Little Shop is based on the Green in Toddington.

We stock a wide range of contemporary & beautiful gifts & cards for adults & children.

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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

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