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Sarah Outen; London 2 London Rutland Open Studios Pass Plus driving Health | Beauty | Gardening | Travel | Books
Inside This Issue...
Summer Food
Interiors
Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
Getting Married? Visit www.yourweddingscene.co.uk
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Achieve the smile you have always wanted Gain confidence and look years younger
Contents Useful numbers Community Health & Beauty Garden Scene Interiors Family & Craft What’s so special about birds Motoring What’s on Uppingham Summer School Book reviews Citizens Advice Bureau Confessions of a Bee Keeper Trade Directory
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Welcome
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01780 789878 to book - www.snowbrite.co.uk Discounts for Group Bookings and Bridal Packages
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
Welcome to the June edition of the Rutland Scene! With the glorious late Spring weather, it may seem like we’ve had Summer already. Our gardens have flourished and in some cases flowered too early. Nothing can be done to halt this, enjoy it and nurture it. Keeping our plants watered through the dry spells can be as simple as getting the garden hose out; consider though a water butt or two, dish water and methods to prevent the borders drying out so quickly. See page 18 for some more tips.Beauty is all about simple steps to prepare and care for your skin as the short sleeves appear from the wardrobe. (Pages 11 & 12) Out and about, there are lots of events going on (pages 38 & 39) and locally Rutland Water is busy with the Osprey eggs and welcoming new life to the area. (pages 32 & 33) So enjoy the outdoors and if you get stuck indoors because of a summer shower, grab a book recommended by Freya North on page 41.
Naomi & Heidi x Scene Offices Scene Marketing, The Old School House, Great North Road, Wittering PE8 6BX Tel: 01780 783613 The Scene online www.thescenemagazine.co.uk | www.issuu.com/the_scene_magazine Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Need a phone number?
Then look
no further than our useful numbers Police, Health, Sports clubs, Libraries, Vets and Places of Worship Helplines/Advice, Public Services POLICE
Non emergency (0116) 222 2222 In a non emergency - for example not requiring police attendance - or to report a nonurgent crime, there is one telephone number for the whole of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
Support Advicelines
Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Emergencies 999 Childline - 0800 11 11 Parentline 0808 800 2222 Samaritans 08457 909090
Citzens Advice Bureau 56 High Street Oakham LE15 6AL 0845 120 3705 www.rutlandcab.org.uk
Local Councils
Rutland County Council Catmose, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6HP Tel: 01572 722577 E: enquiries@rutland.gov.uk Uppingham Town Council The Town Hall, High Street East, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9PY - 01572 822681 www: uppinghamtowncouncil.co.uk Rutland Adult Learning Enquiries and Enrolment E: adultlearning@ catmose.rutland.sch.uk www.rutnet.co.uk/adultlearning
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HEALTH Doctors
Barrowden Surgery 8 Kings Lane LE15 8EF 01572 748635 Dr D A J Ker & Partners Cold Overton Road Oakham LE15 6NT Empingham Medical Centre 37 Main Street LE15 8PR Ketton Surgery Geeston Road PE9 3RH 01572 823531 Market Overton Surgery Thistleton Road LE15 7PP 0844 815 1470 Somerby Surgery Oakham Road LE14 2PZ 0844 815 1470 The Uppingham Surgery 2 London Road LE15 9TJ 01572 823531
Chemists
Ashdale Pharmacy 3 Market Place, Uppingham LE15 9QH 01572 822343 Boots The Chemist 26 High Street East, Uppingham LE15 9PZ 01572 823304 Boots The Chemist 18 High Street, Oakham LE15 6AL 01572 722024
Oakham Town Council Day Lewis Victoria Hall, High Street, 21 High Street, Oakham Oakham June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk LE15 6AH 01572 723627
Valley Pharmacy Kings Lane, Barrowden LE15 8EF 01572 747433 Your Local Boots Pharmacy Cold Overton Road, Oakham LE15 6NT 01572 770101
Dentists
ADP Oakham The White House, 17 Burley Road Oakham, LE15 6DH 01572 770579 D S Nadany 2 Market Street, Oakham LE15 6DY 01572 755002 Dentith & Dentith 83 South Street, Oakham LE15 6BG 01572 755970 J A Gwyther 74 High Street, Oakham LE15 6AS 01572 755260 Oakham Dental Studio Knight’s Yard, Gaol Street Oakham, LE15 6AQ 01572 771775 RM Allen 9 Market Place, Uppingham LE15 9QH - 01572 821040 R M Pancholi / M P Gokani Unit 3, Ayston House, Ayston Road Uppingham LE15 9RL 01572 823595 West Road Dental Practice 71 West Road, Oakham LE15 6LT 01572 722677
SPORTS
Vale of Catmose College Sports Centre 01572 756181 www.rutnet.co.uk/vcc Oakham School Sports Centre 01572 758754 Rutland County Council Active Recreation Team 01572 722577 www.rutland.gov.uk
Athletics
Rutland Athletic Club 01572 757617 01572 723606 www.rutlandac.supanet.com
Ketton Tennis Club 01780 460501
Volleyball
Oakham Volleyball Club 01572 812544
LIBRARY
Oakham Library Catmose Street LE15 6HW 01572 722918
Lyddington, Stoke Dry, Seaton, Caldecott, Glaston, Bisbrooke, Harringworth The Revd Jane Baxter 01572 822717
Ketton Library High Street PE93TE 01780 720580
Uppingham, Ayston, Belton,Wardley The Revd Canon Stephen Evans 01572 823381
Ryhall Library Coppice Road, PE9 4HY 01780751726
Football
Mobile Library offers a fortnightly service to the villages of Rutland
Royce Rangers Junior FC 07800749907 / 01572821189
Horse riding
RutlandRidingClub 01780 755237 www.rutlandridingclub.co.uk
Rugby
VETS
Best Friends Veterinary Centre Melton Road, Oakham, LE15 6AY 01572 770011 www.bestfriendsgroup.com
Oakham Rugby Club 01664 454421 01572 770274 www.oakhamrfc.co.uk
Oakham Veterinary Hospital Ashwell Road, Oakham, LE15 7QH 01572 722647 www.oakhamvethospital.co.uk
Running
Rutland Veterinary Centre 12a Ayston Road, Uppingham, LE15 9RL 01572 822399
Rutland Running Club 01572 755533 E:rrcclub_sec@yahoo.co.uk
Sailing
Rutland Sailing Club 01780 720292 www.rutlandsc.co.uk
Tennis
Oakham Tennis Club 07966 466482 / 07971 457739 oakhamltc.org.uk
Empingham – Edith Weston, North Luffenham, Lyndon, Manton, Whitwell, Preston, Ridlington,Wing, Pilton The Revd Stuart Mitchell 01780 460139
Uppingham Library, Queen Street LE15 9QR 01572 823218
Badminton
Oakham Badminton Club oakhambc@hotmail.co.uk
Cottesmore, Barrow & Burley Greetham,Thistleton, Stretton, Clipsham, Exton 01572 812202 (Cottesmore Church office)
PLACES OF WORSHIP
Oakham Ashwell, Braunston in Rutland, Brooke, Egleton, Hambleton, Langham, Market Overton,Teigh,Whissendine The Revd Lee Francis- Dehqani 01572 722108 Ryhall, Essendine, Carlby The Revd Patrick McKee 01780 762398
Barrowden & Wakerley, South Luffenham, Morcott, Duddington Tixover The Revd Geoff Angell 01572 747192 Ketton, Collyweston, Easton on the Hill,Wittering The Revd David Everett 01780 720228 St Josephs Catholic Church, Oakham 01572 722308 Congregational Church, Oakham 01733 262086 Methodist Church, Oakham 01572 756946 Methodist Church, Uppingham 01572 722239 Baptist Church, Oakham 01572 724990 School Chapel, Oakham 01572 758797 Langham Baptist Church 01572 768386 The Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) 59 South Street, Oakham 01780 460454 (voicemail) Market Overton Free Church
Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011 01572 767383
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Community
RUTLAND ARTISTS OPEN STUDIOS 2011
An impressive total of 81 artists will be exhibiting right across Rutland and into neighbouring counties as part of Rutland Open Studios in June this year. Rutland is home to an amazing variety of artists, many of whom are at the top of their chosen field, be that painting, photography, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, mixed media, jewellery-making, furniture and more. On every weekend in June, the artists will be either opening the doors to their own private studios or sharing public spaces in group shows, and inviting the public to view their work. This will also be a chance to buy, at direct prices, something beautiful and original that will last a lifetime, and perhaps even gain in value over the years. The Rutland Open Studios event will then culminate in a group show featuring work by most of the participating artists across all media, as part of the Four Winds Festival at Rutland Water on the final weekend, 25-26 June.
www.rutlandopenstudios.co.uk 01572 747 639. Free entry to all exhibitions.
LOCAL BUSINESSES; 4NETWORKING OAKHAM Local networking group, 4Networking, is thriving due to the positive and proactive approach of businesses in the area. Oakham 4Networking meets every other Friday at The Admiral Hornblower from 8 ‘til 10am, and its informal, friendly environment means that people from every industry can get together to gain motivation as well as making business contacts. 4Networking has almost 300 groups and over 42,000 members all over the UK. Unlike many networking organisations, 4Networking members are encouraged to attend lots of meetings. There are 15 other groups within driving distance including Peterborough, Leicester, Bourne and Grantham.It’s a great way for small businesses to get connected. The next Oakham meetings are 10th and 24th June. Breakfast costs just £10 - don’t forget to bring your business cards or other promotional material. www.4Networking.biz or email deb@mrs-marketing.co.uk Alan Oliver, ‘Normanton Church’, ink and watercolour, 15” x 11”
STRETTON LAKES WINS NATIONAL SILVER AWARD One of Rutland’s top tourism businesses is celebrating after winning a prestigious Silver award at the national finals of the Enjoy England Excellence Awards. Winner of the Self Catering Silver Award, Stretton Lakes is situated in 120 acres of farmland in the county of Rutland. Four fishing lakes have been created over the past 40 years to create an idyllic setting surrounded by woodland and open farmland. The region’s other silver winners included; Buxton Festival for Best Tourism Event; Hotel Maiyango & Restaurant in Leicestershire in
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
the Taste of England category; and the front of house team at East Lodge, Derbyshire for Outstanding Customer Service. The finalists were selected by a panel of tourism industry judges which included previous gold winners, travel journalists and industry experts.
www.strettonlakes.co.uk Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Community
London 2 London, via The World
Community
On 1 April this year, Sarah Outen began her epic journey around the world. With two boats, one bike, two oceans and across three continents, Sarah isn’t due home for two and a half years. On Sarah’s website, you can follow her journey, learn more about the customised boats and bike and keep up to date with Sarah’s phonecasts and blog updates. We’ll bring you an update each month on Sarah’s progress, successes, challendges and milestones, but in the meantime, follow www.sarahouten.com
PASS PLUS SCHEME SUPPORTED In an attempt to reduce the numbers of young people killed or seriously injured on local roads, Rutland County Council has announced it is to continue sponsoring the ‘Pass Plus’ scheme FREE to some young drivers for at least another year (until March 2012). ‘Pass Plus’ is a nationally recognised scheme to encourage newly qualified drivers to develop safer driving skills. It usually costs around £150 for six advanced driving sessions and completing the course can lead to substantially cheaper car insurance. Since the subsidised scheme was launched in Rutland in January 2008, 679 young people aged 17-21 have registered to take part with 630 having completed it. Upon completing their driving test anyone aged 17-21 who lives in Rutland can apply for a voucher for £150 which covers the cost of the course. Students aged 17-21 who are at school in Rutland but have a permanent address outside Rutland can apply for a voucher worth £100 and anyone aged 22-25 who are permanent residents in Rutland can apply for a voucher worth £75.
Tel: 01572 722 577 or
8 June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk email enquiries@rutland.gov.uk
Food Festival date for your diary Plans for this year’s Rutland Food Festival are well underway and it’s now gearing up to top last year’s fantastic event. Rutland Food Ambassador and Michelin Starred chef, Sean Hope is set to be leading the cooking demonstration marquee and is looking forward to revealing the line up of his top chefs soon – something not to be missed. A number of providers have also already confirmed their attendance including; Brocklebys selling award winning savory and fruit pies, Fen Farm Venison selling fresh and cooked venison burgers and steaks, Amphora Wines who will be selling high quality local fine and everyday wines, Cookie
Box selling beautifully steamed puddings and Christmas puddings, Groovy Foods who will be providing a a hog roast, Juicy Jackets providing delicious jacket potatoes and Little Cakes who will be proving beautifully designed cupcakes, and cakes. It takes place as part of the wider Rutland Day celebrations on Saturday 17th September at Rutland Water, Sykes Lane from 11am - 6pm. Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Health & Beauty
Health & Beauty
Stress Management for Carers Working in partnership with CLASP, the Carers Centre, Pink Glove Support Services are now offering a FREE stress management course for Carers in Rutland Rutland Pink Glove Support Services is a Social Enterprise that provides support for people in their own home. The service enables carers to have a break either for a few hours or a few days, and helps to reduce stress giving carers the opportunity to re-charge. Carers are defined as a person who provides unpaid ongoing support to a relative, friend or neighbour who, due to ill health, long term condition or disability cannot manage without their help. The course looks at the cause of stress, the signs to look out for, coping mechanisms, insight into reducing and managing stress and relaxation techniques. The design and development of the course has
included carers, mental health professionals (including a social psychologist) and an expert who has worked with carers since 1993. In a recent survey 86% of carers reported that they suffered from stress, anxiety and depression (Carers UK 2011). The Rutland Carers Stress Management course takes place on the 22nd June, at Voluntary Action Rutland. 10.00am – 3.30pm in the Empingham Room. To book a place contact Sam Lloyd s.lloyd@pinkglove.org or call 01780 721912
Body Shop Tea Tree Black head Eliminating Scrub
Funding is also being sought, to help to continue providing this type of support in the area. For sponsorship of course material or to make a donation, contact Sam Lloyd on 01780 721912.
Rejuvanessence – Facial Rejuvenation (from £35 per treatment)
Body Shop Lip Scuff
When Carole Hartwell offered me a Rejuvanessence facial that uses no products apart from rose oil, I was confused, I thought all facials consisted at least of a cleanse, tone and moisturise. However this type of facial uses only oil and the art of fingertip massage. After 30 minutes of applying her facial massage technique she showed me my face in the mirror, the massaged side of my face looked visibly more toned, my cheekbones looked higher and my face looked radiant. I couldn’t wait for the other side to be done. Not only does this treatment lift and tone, but it detoxifies, de-stresses and can reduce the signs of acne, wrinkles and fine lines. Carole told me it would last a couple of weeks and suggests having the facial once a month. It really was like having a facelift – without the knife. Experience rating: 9/10 Now available at Serene Hair & Beauty, Greetham Valley Hotel, Golf and Conference Centre, Wood Lane, Greetham, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 7SN | Tel: 07833 477 351
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Health & Beauty
Not on your high street
This Months Beauty Products Continued...
Businesses operate now in many varied ways, taking a different approach to the high street location. Home based, retail villages, web based and mobile. In the Rutland Scene each month we’ll look at a business nestling in the county, which you won’t have seen on the high street. Having something special these days does not have to cost the earth, as Little Cakes proves. The business started off selling individually hand crafted cupcakes, before branching out to larger cakes and, earlier this year, becoming the supplier of a range of everyday cakes to The Barrowden & Wakerley Community Shop, where a slice can be enjoyed over a coffee or purchased whole to take home. Cupcakes and mini cakes continue to be a favourite it seems and owner Nicola Denbigh bakes all cakes from scratch, designs each creation and hand makes the
Essence salon in Uppingham are now offering KeraStraight hair treatment, an evolution in straightening and repair. The process is ideal if you have dull, dry, damaged or frizzy hair or if you straighten your hair regularly and want to reduce the amount of day to day damage from straightening irons. The KeraStraight KS Complex is a 100% Formaldehyde and Aldehyde smoothing treatment which also repairs hair instantly. The end result lasts for up to four months and colour can be applied to your hair as soon as two days before or after the KeraStraight process is complete. For a free consultation with owner Kate Giles, or any of Kate’s KeraStraight trained staff, contact Essence on 01572 822715
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
designs and decorations that adorn them. Nicola also hosts Cupcake Decorating Parties for those wishing to learn how to decorate cupcakes and learn a few tips of the trade along the way. For more information about Little Cakes, go to www.littlecakes.me.uk or call - 07738 356 527
LEAFLET AND MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTORS WANTED
CALL 01522 514707
OR E MAIL INFORMATION@AALEAFLETDISTRIBUTION.CO.UK
Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Health Hair & Beauty
NOW OPEN 10 % OFF Thursday is ‘Mums Day’
The new, totally refurbished Serene Hair & Beauty salon opened its doors on the 1st May at Greetham Valley Hotel and Golf complex in Rutland.
All Hair Treat yourselves to a pamper day for only £35 Appointments Includes 2 treatments plus lunch! 10am - Arrive for tea and coffee and 10.30am - Choose a treatment from the menu 12pm - Lunch Shellac Nails 1pm - Choose another treatment from the menu 2pm – time to enjoy your relaxation before collecting the little ones
Offering treatments such as;
Manicures, Pedicures Rejuvanessence facials Aromatherapy massages and facials Hot stone massages Permanent hair removal Hypnotherapy Indian head massages Reiki Reflexology Shellac manicures and pedicures Body scrubs and body wraps Fake tans Teeth whitening Full hair dressing service 14
June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
Fund raising day in aid of Marie Curie July 23rd 2-5pm Mini treatments £5 All proceeds to go to charity PLUS - 10% of all further treatments booked on the day will go to charity.
Owner Heidi Grimwood has fully trained holistic and beauty therapists plus a laser teeth whitening technician, hypnotherapy/ NLP practitioner as well as an experienced hair designer, all of whom will be offering their services at the spa. You can choose to have a full all day
pamper or indulgence package or a gents grooming day as well bridal packages, all of which will include lunch and refreshments.You are able to choose from a menu of treatments to suit your requirements and your budget, so call to discuss with Heidi.
Indulgence & Pamper Days Half day Full Day Gents Grooming Bridal Packages Group Bookings Golfers MOT Packages for pre and post pregnancy
Teeth Whitening
Holistic Therapy
Contact Us: Tel: 07833 477351 E: info@serenehealthandbeauty.co.uk W: www.serenehealthandbeauty.co.uk Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Health & Beauty
Home & Garden
BBQ Marinades & Salads
CALORIE INFERNO! A little bit of sun and it gets you thinking about your summer outfits and holiday pool attire. A little tight in places maybe? Well let’s see if we can remedy that and get you looking even better for the summer, but it’s going to be tough! By increasing the amount of oxygen your body uses during exercise, your body will burn more calories post exercise. After a hard training session your body will consume more oxygen than normal (by trying to return it, to its pre-exercise state). In Health and Fitness circles, this is known as Post Exercise Oxygen Consumption or EPOC. Basically this will cause a spike in your metabolism and increase calorie burning for up to 48 hours!! I will outline three methods you can try. (If you are new to exercise ensure that you have prior approval from a medical professional)
Method 1 You need to complete a full body “weight” routine, hitting all major muscle groups. One catch, the weights you lift will need to be heavier than you traditionally do, 2-3 times heavier. Not for the faint hearted I know, but proven. Heavy lifting inflicts more damage to your muscle fibres, so they require more oxygen and energy to repair. A gradual approach can be adopted, by slowly increasing your weight over a 4-week period.
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
For the Bank Holiday weekends, we start to think about hosting BBQ’s. Try these quick and simple recipes to make your BBQ sizzle.
Method 2 If you are able to train twice a day (i.e. morning and evening) your EPOC will be elevated. In the form of cardio sessions on either the exercise bike or rowing machine. Complete two 25-minute sessions at 75% of your maximum heart rate. If 25 minutes at 75% is too much of a challenge. Change the duration of your session and gradually build up to the 25 minutes, by increasing the time over a 4-week period, starting with 15 minutes.
Marinades These are great for flavouring your meat with very little input and maximum taste. Here are some favourites so start with these and alter as you like to taste. • Great with chicken! Grate Ginger, Garlic and add sliced Chilli. Add as much or little to your own taste. Then take some oil, a splash Cous- cous of white wine, a couple of spoons of honey, squeeze of citrus. Mix together with the ginger, Follow the instructions on the packet to cook the cous cous first. Roasted vegetables garlic and chilli. Add to the meat. compliment a BBQ really well. Put the veg on an oven tray; red onion, courgettes, mixed • Lamb soak - natural yoghurt, chopped fresh mint, sprinkle of sugar, lemon juice, chilli if you peppers, mushrooms, asparagus, tomatoes, drizzle of oil, season, roast till soft and golden. like. Stir into the cous cous with a squeeze of • Steak rub - oil, cracked pepper, splash of red lemon/lime to stop the clumping. wine, garlic, spring onion.
Salads
Bean salad
Method 3 Now for the great outdoors, or the treadmill. Run as fast as you can for 30 seconds then rest for 1 minute.You can start this method x5 for the first week and add x5 on each week until you get to x20. If you really want to burn calories, you can combine all 3 sessions over a weekly period, ensuring that you have a minimum of at least one days rest, in-between each session. Mark Gordon www.fitness2health.co.uk
Don’t add salt..........this will dry out your meat, always season after with salt or leave till very last minute.
As many different beans as you like, kidney, borlotti, butter, haricot, broad. Drizzle with olive oil, very thin slices of garlic, chilli (if you like), citrus juice and season.
Leave for at least 6 hours or overnight. Once the meat is on the BBQ, use a Bouquet Garni to bast the meat while cooking with the left over marinade. This keeps the meat juicy and adds even more flavour. Marinades will keep for a week or so from making them fresh..... Put your flavours in a jar, and keep in the fridge. This is an easy way to make them as well as you can shake the flavour together in the jar.
Salad dressing
Put crushed garlic, a couple of spoons of mayo, small spoon of mustard, one spoon of honey, citrus juice and olive oil into the jar. Check the lid is tight and shake. Taste before you cover your salad in it! Add chilli, hotter mustard, grapefruit or orange juice for a change, swap the mayo for a bit of marmalade..... Get shaking and tasting!!!
Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Home & Garden
Home & Garden
The rain in Spain, hasn’t made it here... As I write this Britain is in the grips of drought, looking at the grass you could mistakenly think its August! With the unusually warm weather plants are romping away and quickly getting stressed through lack of water, so here are some tips to help your garden cope. • • • • • • • • • •
Mulch plant roots with any well rotted organic matter to conserve moisture. Add water retaining granules to container composts. Raise the height of the cut on your lawns. Hoe off any competing weeds. Bath and washing up water can be used on the garden, except on fruit and veg. Early morning and evening is best for watering. Spray over foliage when watering. Make saucer shaped dips around new plantings to avoid run off. Invest in some water butts to catch the precious rain when it comes! Sink pots near the roots of thirsty vegetables like squashes and courgettes, and fill up daily.
Summer’s here! Hooray Summer is here! With the threat of late frosts over, roll out your bedding, line out your runner beans, dust off the deck chairs and pour out the Pimms!
Plant focus on Roses
Roses, that most quintessential English flower, its heavenly fragrance and beautiful blooms bringing joy to any garden. But wait, Oh no! Green bugs, black blotches, my roses what am I to do? Well never fear, ‘Garden scene is here’; here’s my quick guide to perfect roses. • Black spot, mildew and aphids are the main problems you will encounter, treat when seen with a proprietary product from the garden centre. Healthy plants will fight off pest and diseases much more readily, so give your Roses a fortnightly foliar feed, spray the foliage with a seaweed based product with extra iron. • Good fertility is key so feed with a slow release rose fertiliser once in April and again at the end of June. • Ideally roses prefer a sunny position, sheltered from strong winds. • Avoid planting roses on a site where roses have been recently planted before. • Use a good deep mulch of well rotted organic matter to seal in moisture. • Dead head regularly to keep the flowers coming. • At the end of the year rake up and remove fallen rose leaves. • Roses are best planted in late Autumn/early winter, fork a bucket of compost into the planting hole and plant so the bud union is 2.5cm below the soil.
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
by Joseph Whitehead www.gardenwiseadvice.com
Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Refurbish or Replace your Kitchen
Home & Garden
Home & Garden
Replacing an existing kitchen is one of the most expensive and disruptive tasks that you can undertake. Before you make the decision to rip everything out and start again, there are a couple of things to consider: – • Are you currently in your forever home? • Does you current kitchen work? • What budget do you realistically have?
Refurbish
If you are not in your forever home and plan to sell your property within the next couple of years, consider if replacing your existing kitchen is worth the expense, time and effort. If your current layout works and the cabinet carcasses are still in good working order then why go to the heartache of replacing them? You can achieve a completely new look simply by updating some of the existing fittings. Not only will this be considerably cheaper but the work will be completed within a shorter time frame, with a lot less disruption. Start by calculating what budget you have to spend as this will help determine the level of improvements you can afford to make.You can gain a total new look by stripping the kitchen back to the bare carcass and replacing all fittings. However, if your budget doesn’t stretch that far, don’t worry, consider what combination of changes will give you the best results; a fresh new colour on the walls and ceiling, new handles on the cabinet doors and some trendy new tiles can help to transform a dated look.
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
If you opt for a full refurbishment consider using a local kitchen refurbishment company who will complete the work for you. However, if you are happy to take on the challenge yourself make sure that you do the following: • • • • • •
Measure all of your current kitchen doors, side panels and kickboards and then measure them again Make sure you can purchase replacements of the same size, check the positioning of the hinges Think about door handles and what style is required to ensure the new ones do not obstruct anything If you are replacing your worktop, check for joints and know where they are positioned If you are replacing any appliances, spend time measuring to ensure your replacement items will fit safely and securely Any gas appliances need to be disconnected and fitted by a registered gas fitter
Whatever you can afford, it might not give you the dream kitchen you were hoping for, but it will certainly help to make your home more presentable when the time comes to put your house on the market. Just remember when choosing your colours and design the kitchen is one of the major selling points so don’t put potential buyers off by opting for something too bizarre!
Replace If you are fortunate enough to be in your forever home the first thing to consider is what you want from your kitchen. Will the space allow for your design dream? If not, it may be worth considering a revamp rather than a replacement. However, if the space allows for a complete new design start by making a wish list of all the things you would like from your kitchen, this could be anything from somewhere to entertain, to having a built in wine rack. Write everything down, no matter how unachievable you think it might be. Next consider what budget you have. Plans never quite go to plan so make sure you have a little extra cash in reserve, just in case.
Once you have set your budget and agreed on the expectations from your new kitchen, it is time to think about the layout, design and colour. Remember that you don’t want to be changing your kitchen again anytime soon, so spend time shopping around looking for styles and designs that you like. Once you have an idea of style and colour, get your kitchen designed by a professional – many of the DIY stores offer free design and planning. They will come out to your home and talk to you about your expectations. Go through your wish list – but be aware you may have to compromise. They will take measurements and note where the current services are located and provide you with a printed plan. Whether you use the company or go elsewhere is up to you, however, unless you are a craftsman by trade, it is advisable to get your kitchen fitted by professionals. Like anything in this world, you get what you pay for, but if you give time to research your dream kitchen thoroughly, you will find some excellent value for money out there.
Whether you are selling, letting or simply wanting to update your home contact Sue for an informal chat. Tidy Interiors - Tel 01476 564035 | Mob 0754 061 2143 www.tidyinteriors.co.uk Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Usage of solar energy is becoming increasingly popular at this current time and more and more homes are benefiting from it each day. Sunroof energy is Stamford’s upcoming sensation offering a more energy efficient way of living. With Sunroof Energy you can power your home using free renewable energy generated from the DAYLIGHT not just sunlight, Which will greatly reduce your electric bills. We specialise in solar energy roof panels. These are a particular type of solar panel which work by being fixed onto the roof of your home, and collecting photovoltaic (PV) energy which is then converted into electricity which we can used in homes.
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
The government are very involved with solar energy roofs and offer a new feed-in tariff to reward homeowners for generating renewable, clean electricity,( 43.3 pence per kilowatt of power produced)This tariff works by the consumers being paid for each kilowatt of electricity the solar energy panels generate. Even when it is being used in your own home and an additional rate of 3 pence is given for electricity that is not used within the house but returned to the power grid. Depending on the size of your home you may, depending On the size of the system you install, save half of your existing Electricity bill (daylight usage) plus be paid to produce this energy, which can equate to between ÂŁ800.00 and ÂŁ1500.00 per year. This return on your initial investment is far higher than any savings Scheme available from your bank or building society . Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Craft Fairs
Family & Craft
Summer activities without the expense
5 June Fineshade Woods Organised by Stamford Artisan’s Guild
Fishing
You don’t need a allotment or large space in the garden to grow potatoes. Bags or sacks are ideal and fun for the kids too! You can buy a kit from the garden centres which includes a few bags and the tubers (see potatoes).
Gardening Back garden campout
Visit a Museum
Roller Blading or Skating
Board Games Olympics (play all evening with medals for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place!)
Bike Riding
Watch a sunset or sunrise – Sunsets are easy, but try waking the group up for a sunrise!
Movie Marathon make your own popcorn too!
Fly a Kite
Scrapbooking – starting a scrapbook is also a good reason to get talking to grandparents about their childhood memories.
Cook – chocolate crispies, popcorn, toffee apples
Feed the ducks
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
6 August Vintage, Retro & Handmade Fair Victoria Hall, Oakham
Potato planting with the children
Build a hideout with chairs, clothes horse, blankets, pillows.
Visit the Library
3 July Fineshade Woods Organised by Stamford Artisan’s Guild
www.stamfordartisansguild.co.uk
Summer activities don’t always need to be expensive. Remember at Christmas when the cardboard box the toy arrived in is more exciting than the toy itself? There you go! So here’s a list for inspiration; get those imaginations going and maybe tack a few together. See how many you can tick off over the summer months!
Picnic
Family & Craft
• In each bag, place five tubers on top of 15-20cm of good quality compost. Then cover with a further 10cm of compost. • As the shoots start to appear through the compost, add most compost on top to keep the potato covered. Repeat this until the compost is a few centimetres below the top of the bag. • Keep the soil moist, but not saturated. There are many varieties available now, but if you’re growing in just a few bags then the first earlies may suit you best. They are best harvested in small quantities & eaten straight away.
Super easy Playdough recipe:
• • • • •
1/2 cup of salt 1 cup of flour 1 tablespoon of cream of tartar 1 tablespoon of oil 1 cup of boiling water mixed food colouring
For alternative colouring, try glitter, leave some fruit teabags in the hot water for a natural colour. Put all the dry ingredients in a bowl and then mix vigorously with the hot water. Store in tubs or food bags to keep it soft. Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Increasing Fuel Costs... It does appear everyone is agreed fuel costs are set to increase so it may be worth acting now if you are looking to travel to far away places for your winter holiday. Fuel surcharges have been steadily increasing but on the plus side hotel prices are holding firm, in some cases rates are less than last year.The reductions in price are often at the 4 and 5 star end of the market as travellers look to tighten their budget. The Far East is good value closely followed by the Indian Ocean destinations and of course Goa. One of winters most popular destinations is the Caribbean, but it is suffering from the double whammy of increased fuel costs and a high increase in the UK departure tax. So expect some early offers! Many operators suddenly offer a three day sale, so it is best to register your interest early to get a better chance of
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
capturing that bargain.If you want guaranteed sun why not think Gambia. Flights from Birmingham have just a six hour flight time, no time difference, temperatures 30 degrees plus, beautiful beaches and if you enjoy fresh fish this is the plaice (sorry!) for you. English is the main language, it’s excellent for birdwatching and also for sea fishing. Next door is Senegal a comparatively new area for many. If relaxing is your thing you would be hard pushed to find better. Senegal being a former French Colony, French is the official language but English is widely spoken. With extensive bird life, animal reserves, horse riding and river fishing it’s an outdoor dream. As always check with on vaccinations required with your GP before booking. If you cannot wait that long there are still some summer sun holidays available to Egypt, Tunisia and Turkey representing good value.
...offers on winter sun
Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Cottesmore
25 Main Street, Cottesmore, Nr Oakham Rutland LE15 7DH Tel: 01572 898217 We offer a warm welcome and traditional, fresh, home cooked food and real ale. Whether you want morning coffee, lunch, dinner or just a snack, it’s available at The Sun Inn. Our menu changes with the seasons!
Weddings, Christenings, Anniversaries, Funerals Contact Julie to view our Rutland Room on Everything tailored to your requirements
Opening Summer Times
Sunday to Thursday 11am to 11pm Friday and Saturday 11am to midnight
New Menu Out Now Food Serving Times Monday to Thursday - 12 noon to 9pm Friday and Saturday - 12 noon to 9.30pm Sunday lunch served from 12 noon to 7pm Sunday Supper served from 7pm to 9pm
Well behaved dogs are most welcome in our bar Visit our website at: Contact us by e-mail at info@thesuninncottesmore.co.uk
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Images supplied courtesy of : John Wright
What’s so special about birds?
the public. It contact that I have with members of One of the highlights of my job is the about the wonders rs othe h teac le from other places and provides an opportunity to meet peop s to a huge range of lead ic’’ publ ‘’the with act in regular cont of the natural world. Naturally, being you sell ice cream?’ ‘do day we may answer any thing from questions being asked. On an average can try!) With the I (Yes, ect?’ me identify this bird/plant/ins (Yes we do), through to ‘can you help tions, but one in ques of e shar fair our have had more than recent bank holidays and sunshine we particular stands out.
‘What’s so special about birds?’ I am going to have a go at answering it. From an ecological point of view birds play an active role in managing ecosystems. Many plants are dependent upon seed dispersal for successful regeneration and birds are major seed carriers. Some, as predators, feed on insects, amphibians, reptiles and mammals and are important in keeping populations of these animals in check. Some species also act as pollinators; a hummingbird is a familiar example of this. Not only that but they also evolved form dinosaurs which must give them a certain cool factor!
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
Birds also have a huge presence in our lives and have been a part of human culture for centuries, as a food source, as pets, as sacred beings and figures in arts, poetry and films (The latest example being the blockbuster RIO). In Rutland their importance is immense. They are the reason Rutland Water Nature Reserve is a protected area that provides home for numerous other animals including otters, badgers and water voles and have unknowingly led to the creation a place of natural peace and tranquillity that we can all enjoy.
Common Blue Butterfly, Otter, Meadows – all of these are here due to the protection offered by the reserve. With out birds being protected and thu s the habitat being protected these sights would not exists.
gh it Gadwall – Althou ck, looks like just a du h over 10% of Nort ’s pe Western Euro tland Gadwall live at Ru helped Water. They have SSSI, the Reserve gain atus. St A RAMSAR and SP
The Ospreys attract over 30,000 visitors a year to Rutland; again the birds are unknowingly aiding us, this time providing an important economic boost to the county. Birds bring us with happiness; the numbers of people who put bird food in the garden and take part in schemes such as the big garden birdwatch are testament to this. They also provide a means to educate people about the natural world. The Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre is a prime example of this, if it was not for the birds there may not be a nature reserve and with out the nature reserve there would be no education centre. Surely the potential to educate increase’s their ‘specialness?’ While spending all day sitting in a bird hide looking through a pair of binoculars might not be every ones cup of tea, I think it would be hard to dispute the fact that birds play a part in the lives of almost every one and in my opinion that makes them pretty darn special.
Osprey update. The pair of Osprey’s in Manton Bay have been incubating three eggs. We expect the eggs to hatch (or have already hatched!) by the end of May. The best views of the bird can be had from the Lyndon visitor Centre. You can also follow the Ospreys live on the webcam at www.ospreys.org.uk Or on Facebook, just search Rutland Water Nature Reserve
By Will Kirstein Education Officer Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre Rutland Environmental Education Centre Anglian Water Bird Watching Centre 01572 770651 Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Motoring
Motoring But back to the fundamental running costs of the car; Hyundai has developed three e xceptionally efficient engines which power the ix20: a 1.4-litre with 90PS in both petrol and diesel, and a125PS petrol mated to an automatic transmission. Hyundai expects its new ‘U2’ common-rail diesel engine to be the most popular choice among British buyers looking for exceptional economy. The U2 engines use high-pressure common rail injection, electronically-controlled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to ensure they meet Euro V emissions regulations. What’s more, fitted with Integrated Stop-Start technology and a six-speed manual gearbox, the 1.4 CRDi Style version of the ix20, on test here, records CO2 emissions of just 114g/
However, Hyundai is doing its bit to help ease the cost of everyday motoring by producing the thrifty new ix20. The latest model to join the South Korean company’s ‘i-range’ line-up of vehicles has the style of a supermini, the space of Doctor Who’s TARDIS and the economy of a city car. Every manual model features Intelligent Stop & Go technology, low rollingresistance Continental tyres and an Alternator Management System (AMS), giving it the lowest emissions and fuel consumption in the class. In fact the ix20 is so fuel efficient it can actually better or match the figures for rivals’ city cars. Made at Hyundai’s newest European plant in Nošovice, Czech Republic, the ix20 is essentially a compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) with a healthy dose of fashion and functionality. It is not, in my opinion, good-looking but it
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
km and returns an average fuel economy of 65.7mpg. These class-leading figures will bring reduced motoring costs through lower road fund licence costs as well as saving pounds at the pumps. Ok, by their very nature, MPVs, large or small, are never exhilarating to drive, and the ix20 is no exception. But the car is impressive in so many other respects. It is roomy, tremendously economical, it has a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, it has 20,000-mile service intervals and comes with Hyundai’s five-year unlimited-mileage warranty, plus five years of roadside assistance and free vehicle health checks. Phew! By my reckoning all that makes the ix20 ideal for anyone looking for a cost-effective, practical, modern day motor.
does have a chic sporty profile, which sets it apart from the boxy ‘minivan’ image typically associated with other MPVs. Inside, the ix20 is firmly screwed together and matches the spirited design of the exterior. The wellappointed cabin features a height adjustable driver’s seat, air conditioning, six airbags, active head restraints, radio/CD audio system with six speakers, plus CD, MP3 and USB-/AUX-/ iPOD-input capabilities. More importantly, the car provides excellent legroom and headroom in the front and rear. It is also very easy to achieve a comfortable driving position. And once on the move, the ix20 delivers an alert and supple ride, even over the most pothole ravaged roads. That is no surprise though because the car is the first in Hyundai’s history to be extensively tested on the worst of British roads. Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Whats On
Whats On
Award winning Wildcats Theatre School are running a full week of holiday activities at Stamford Arts Centre this half term. Tuesday 31st May: Circus Adventure in partnership with Shooting Stars Circus School Wednesday 1st June: Hannah Montana and Miley Workshop Day Thursday 2nd June: Wicked Master Class with a cast member from the show. www.wildcatstheatreschool.co.uk
Peterborough
Kite Festival Sunday 12th June
Ferry Meadows: starts 10.00am SAT NAV REF: PE2 5UU
A packed programme to include, Stafford Wallace’s Indian Fighters. Adrenaline Head power kites Dark Star AND Team Spectrum with sychronised 2 line flying French Connection kite stacks. Bryan Beasley trick flying Essex Kite Flyers. STACK Rokkaku Challenge
12 June, 1-5pm Greetham Open Gardens A range of stunning gardens in the village, not normally open to the public, will be open for visitors. TTas and cakes together with a plant stall at the Church during the day. Tickets/map at the Church £3 each or 2 for £5.. www.greethamchurch.org.uk
Competitions - Sales - Children’s Workshop - Free-flying Area
17 June – 2 July Oakham Festival www.oakhamfestival.co.uk 38
June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Author of 10 bestselling novels and winner of the Romantic Novel of the Year, Freya’s 11th novel, Chances, is available now. Riding high in the bestseller charts with her new novel, Chances, author Freya North tells us what she’ll be reading this month. THE PERFECT PICNIC by Hilda Leyel Square Peg £9.99 Everyone’s heard of Mrs Beeton… yet many foodies and top chefs credit Hilda Leyel’s recipes as their inspiration to cook. Born in 1880, she wrote The Perfect Picnic in 1936 but it’s as relevant now as it was then: inventive recipes championing local, seasonal ingredients. Mrs Leyel promoted our traditional
Get ready for plenty of summer fun with Uppingham Summer School! Uppingham Summer School will once again be running all sorts of different courses for both children and adults this summer. Whether you are into music, drama, technology, sports or art, there is bound to be something for you! A number of the children’s courses offer residential as well day course options, with the chance to spend a few days having lots of fun and making new friends. The wonderful setting of Uppingham and fantastic facilities at Uppingham School will play host to a number or regular favourites as well us some exciting new courses. Brand new for this year is Glee Week (8-12 August). Inspired by the TV show, this week of singing and dancing will be right
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
up the street of any ‘Gleeks’ or anyone else with a passion for singing, dancing or musical theatre. Also new is Creative Technologies Powerhouse (18-22 July), when 11-18 year olds can spend time learning about iPhone app design, computer game design, film-making and robot design. There are lots of sports courses on offer too, with the chance to enjoy expert coaching and a fun few days playing Cricket, Tennis, Rugby or Hockey. Whatever your interest or whatever your age, Uppingham Summer School is bound to have something for you! Further details on all courses can be found on www.uppinghamsummerschool.co.uk
favourites like raised pies and crusty egg mayonnaise sandwiches – but inspired a little refinement. Spiced plum cake and salted almonds is a fine example of her cooking where retro meets modern. Heading in to picnic season, this is a lovely book to read - where recipes are delicious yet practical. So dust down your wicker basket, shake out an old run – and off you go!
LONDON UNDER by Peter Ackroyd Chatto & Windus, £12.99
THE PILE OF STUFF AT THE BOTTOM OF THE STAIRS by Christina Hopkinson Hodder & Stoughton £12.99
Peter Ackroyd’s previous books London: The Biography and Thames: Sacred River have quite rightly won various awards and sold in the zillions. You really don’t have to be a Londoner, or even a city-dweller to be captivated by them. Now, with all the zeal and eloquence of a passionate tour guide, Ackroyd takes the reader deep under the city – somewhere he astutely describes as “a second earth… it elicits sensations of wonder and of terror. It partakes of myth and dream in equal measure.” The book is fantastically atmospheric – digging deep into what goes on underground when an age-old city lies above it.
I met journalist and fellow author Christina Hopkinson recently and liked her enormously, partly because her life seemed even more chaotic than mine. I love the title of her new novel – and was delighted to find the content of the book just as entertaining yet insightful too. Mary Gilmour, the heroine, senses her life is going down a plug hole clogged with cornflakes and Play-Doh. She works part time, housework appears to be a second, full time job and she finds she has no time for her sons or husband Joel. She hatches a plan – star charts worked for her children so she designs the equivalent for husband, Joel. And she gives him 6 months to redeem himself. Essentially, the novel is a love story - You’ll laugh, you’ll nod – and you’ll feel a bit better of your own pile of stuff at the bottom of your stairs. Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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My daughter will soon be leaving the Royal Air Force (RAF) after she returns from her final tour abroad, but she has not got any plans for when she finishes her service. I heard from a neighbour that there might be some special help for people who have served in the military
Yes we do. Citizens Advice Bureaux work closely with veterans’ charities – like The Royal British Legion, Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund and the Service Personnel and Veterans Agency – to provide veterans with specific advice and guidance. Since your daughter is leaving the Armed Forces soon she can get general housing help through the Joint Service Housing Advice Office. For social housing the local council housing office will be able to help. She might also be able to get help with the cost of buying a home. If she is eligible, the Armed Forces Home Ownership Scheme may be able to lend her between 15 and 50% of the value of a home that you choose on the open property market. If she is single she can get help from the Single Persons Accommodation Centre for the Ex Services (SPACES). SPACES helps single ex service personnel find housing throughout the United Kingdom which can be temporary or permanent. If your daughter contacts them within six months of leaving the Armed Forces they may be able to help her find accommodation. The range of welfare benefits and tax credits available to veterans is much the same as that available to civilians, depending on individual circumstances. Since she has served abroad, she may also be able to get a tax-free relief payment for her council tax or contributions paid instead of council tax. Payments are issued at the end of time abroad and they are based on the number of days served abroad.This help for veterans is quite brief but your daughter should get in touch with her nearest CAB and look at our dedicated advice for veterans here: www.citizensadvice.org.uk. 56 High Street, Oakham LE15 6AL | 0845 120 3705 | www.rutlandcab.org.uk Open Monday 10am – 6pm and Tuesday-Friday 10am – 4pm An independent charity
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
I purchased some tickets to a music concert from what looked like a very official website and later discovered that I got completely scammed. What do you do if you are worried about buying tickets from bogus websites? It is important to be aware of certain issues before making an online purchase and be confident the site is genuine. Researching the website that you are thinking of purchasing from can help determine how credible a site actually is. For example it is imperative that every website has a full street address and a UK landline number, so this is definitely worth checking. If you are still in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions before you make your purchase.You could ask: When will the ticket be dispatched and how will you be notified? You should also find out what the company’s policy on refunds is. When paying for tickets online, always pay by credit card. Under the Consumer Credit Act, your card issuer is jointly liable for the failure to provide goods or services if the cash price of a single ticket is over £100. If you believe that you have been a victim of scam you can report the incident to the police and get a crime reference number. For further advice, call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06or visit their website www. consumerdirect.gov.uk for information about The Just Tick It campaign, which is running as part of Scams Awareness Month. Housing Benefit
Local Home From Home Pet Care Your dog’s daily routine for feeding and walks maintained by our hosts Local hosts in your area Suitable for dogs with a wide range of needs Remember, it’s their holiday too Cosy, loving home environment with very special hosts Established 4 years Keeping you informed about your dog’s holiday Bourne | Deeping | Stamford | Rutland | Spalding Kerry Wells - Barking Mad Tel: 01775 720382 Email: kerry.wells@barkingmad.uk.com Website: www.barkingmad.uk.com
Microchipping your pet Microchipping your pet gives them the best chance of being identified and returned to you if they become lost or stolen. Many pets can be microchipped including cats, dogs, rabbits and horses. Thousands of pets are lost every year and many are never reunited with their owners – microchipping can change that. While collars and tags can get caught or removed – microchipping identifies your pet permanently and harmlessly. How it works
A tiny microchip is inserted under the animal’s skin. This gives the pet their own unique code. The microchip can be scanned and matched to the owner’s contact details, which are kept on a database, such as The National PetLog database. You must make sure the database you are registered with has your up-to-date contact details. Check with your vet for advice, as it will depend on the species, size and condition of your animal. Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Confessions of a Bee Keeper by Joseph Whitehead www.gardenwiseadvice.com
Now if there ever was something guaranteed to upset a bee, that’s a clumsy beekeeper. Unfortunately for me, I was never blessed with a great deal of finesse. In my first season I rather tackled bee keeping in the style I played rugby; as a bash and crash, inside centre. Not a recipe for success! Consequently, I’m not writing of the joys of this most ancient of pastimes, man and nature working together in harmony, but of a ‘personal study of the bee sting’! I reckon I’ve experienced them all. The ‘what’s all the fuss about?’ ones, the ‘oh that didn’t hurt…1,2,3… oh yes it did’ ones, the ones that swell up to elephant man proportions, the insanely itchy ones and the ones that simply stop you in your tracks and almost bring a tear to the eye of even the most hardened of bee keepers. Here’s a tip to any budding bee keepers: don’t skimp on your bee suit. I recall a midsummer early morning, full of promise. “I’ll check my hives before work” I thought. I donned my half suit, partially patched up with gaffer tape. Now ankles, that’s a favourite bee target – twenty stings later in a matter of seconds, I sought refuge in my car. With the pink profusion of peach blossom in the walled garden where I work, my bee keeping season is upon me. A sneaky look at the frames reveal cells lined with bright pink pollen, food for the seasons first larvae.
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
An egg is laid, in 3 days it hatches in 21 days a worker bee emerges ready for action. It has a short life of 35-40 days, but together with maybe 60,000 others, the collective achieves the most amazing feats. Did you know that not only does a foraging bee deduce the distance and direction of a food source, according to the position of the sun in the sky, she then communicates this to her comrades through a type of dance? Upon receiving this information a bee establishes exactly how much honey she must consume to make that journey. So now the bee keeper’s year begins in earnest. Trying to fend off the dreaded swarming, the main challenge of the summer. A colony naturally swarms, taking half of its number and the queen in search of a new home. To the bee keeper, preventing this means more honey can be produced. Then when darkness falls, the tricky act of strapping up your hives and moving them to the next forage crop begins. But with luck, at the end of the summer, the frames will be bursting with honey ready to spin.
ought
h Food for t
bees re rely on horticultu tly the d n a re u n Ag ricult tion. Prese reat for pollina ney bee is under th o h e y n th f lo o o l d ‘c surviva that nexplaine from an u Einstein predicted e . b r’ ld e u rd o o w is d ce collapse uman ra h t! e h g th u s, o e e ary th without b ur years, sc fo in t u o wiped Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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The Scene Trade Ads We Clean
Established since 1981 providing Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Fully Insured service
01780 720018
Mark Toms Electrical Contractor Part P registered domestic installer Rewires - Extensions - New Build Alterations + Additions Inspection + Testing
Tel: 01572 821848 Mob: 07801 446 793 Uppingham Rutland
Sheerwood Skip Services Recycling & Transfer Station Wood Lane, Greetham in Rutland LE15 7SN
07850 144367
4, 6 & 8 Yard Skips - Next day delivery Suppliers of Sand, Balast, Top Soil, Limestone and Gravel at competitive prices. Farm waste acceptable upon appointment. Rewires Electrical Test PAT New Work Upgrade Consumer Units Extra Sockets Extra Lights Fault Finding Outside Security Lights Extra Telephone Points
Tel: 01572 822507 E mail:sales@rutelec.co.uk
June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk
• • • • •
Home gym Home cinema Playroom Games room Family room
• • • • •
Dining room Office Studio Bedroom Annex
FREE quotation and site survey
PressGang
Haven’t got time or hate Ironing??
Call Karen – 01780 720018 established since 1993. Reliable Ironing service – free collection and delivery
Advertise your business here for £ 120 a year (£10 per month) 46
Most garages are internal dumping grounds. Put your garage to real use convert it to a room you will use everyday.
Costs from only £3000! Work can be completed within 7 days All work guaranteed Complies with local building regulations 90% of conversions do not need planning permission All building control and planning (if required) dealt with in-house Increase your property value by adding living space
Order now and receive a free 8 x 6 shed to store your possessions from the garage. Telephone: 01780 783613 | June 2011
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Doors
Windows
Soffits & Facias Co n servato r i es
Summer SALE NOW ON
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June 2011 | Email: info@scenepublishing.co.uk