TIPSS August 2017 Content by Tania Houston

Content Catalogue August 2017

Article Index

And Another Thing... : Tom and the Landline

Baking: White Chocolate Filo Tarts

Computer Tip: Thwarting The Hackers

Beauty: Summer Lovin’

Book Reviews: Lazy Days

Driving: Hyundai Gets Wacky

Finance: Using Credit And Debit Cards Abroad This Year? What You Should Know Before You Go

Gardening: It’s Not Always Good To Be Green

Health: Jet Lag and Joy Lag: How to Recover from Your Holiday

History: A Potted Pub History

Hobbies: Who Needs To Run When You Can WALK?

Home & Interiors: Eco Chic at Home

Life Begins: Can Sleeping Apart Bring You Closer Together?

The Life List: Hey, You’re a Novelist!

Motoring: Paddleboarding in a Picanto

Pets: Food, Health And Hygiene: Food, Health And Hygiene For Your New Hamster

Parenting: Have Kids, Will Travel

Recipe: Cream Of Pea And Herb Soup

Short Story: Aunty Josephine’s Kiosk

Technology: A World Without Wires

Travel Feature: Shwedagon Pagoda - Myanmar

Puzzle Index Cartoon 1 32 Cartoon 2 32 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Page 33 Codeword 34 General Knowledge Crossword 34 Cryptic Crossword 35 Hidato 36 Mini Cryptic Crossword 36 Pictogram 36 Quiz 1: Logos

Quiz 2: The Big Read

Simple Crossword 38 Spot the Difference 38 Sudoku - Easy

Sudoku - Hard

Two Minute Trial 40 Word Ladder 40 Wordsearch - Sailing 41 Wordwheel 41

And Another Thing..

And Another Thing... Tom and the Landline by Tom Hughes @groomsdaybook

Friday afternoon chez Hughes witnessed an event as rare as a lunar eclipse, a comet, or my son Evan buying the first round - the home phone rang. The invention of the mobile making landlines obsolete, the unfamiliar ringtone made Hannah, our youngest, shout out, “Dad? What’s that funny noise in the hall?” “That’s the home phone ringing. Listen don’t pick it up, it’ll only be someone selling …” Too late! “Dad, it’s for you!” Groaning, and much to the annoyance of Olly, my slumbering hound, I heaved myself off our sofa and padded over to the front door. “Hullo?” I enunciated unenthusiastically. “Mr Hughes? Good afternoon, my name is Lance from Call 4 Claims. Now, did you know that the banks and building societies have set aside millions of pounds to compensate customers for mis-sold PPI?”

“Mis-sold PPI? What on earth is that? “ The rising cadence in his voice betraying the excitement of a potential sale, Lance ploughed on with his script. “Well, Mr Hughes, if you’ve ever had a credit card, you may very well have been sold an insurance policy without ever being told about it.” “Well Lance,” I opined, “I wouldn’t put anything past those bankers, look at the mess they made of the country, I mean we’ve been left holding the baby and no mistake!” Just as my diatribe was reaching its zenith Sarah (My Dearly Beloved) appeared on the stairs struggling with a basket full of laundry. “Tom, who’s that on the phone?” she demanded as she negotiated her way down. “It’s Lance from - where are you from again Lance?” “Call 4 Claims.”

“Thank you. Call for Claims dear, apparently the banks have set aside millions of pounds to compensate customers for something called PPI?” The laundry basket landed at my feet with a thud as the phone was unceremoniously snatched from my hand. “Sorry, not interested.” And with a slam of the receiver, my chance of unclaimed riches disappeared. “Look, instead of winding up salesmen I thought you were going to jet wash the drive?” “I’ll have to get some silver sand from B and Q.” A pause, then the outstretched hand and encouraging nod towards the door from Sarah indicated that there was nothing stopping me making a pilgrimage to that cathedral of home improvements. So, after brushing the cobwebs from out of the inside of my Wellington boots, I connected

the jet wash to the mains water and went about the monotonous task of blasting faded pink bricks. And, dear reader, I kid you not, that task would have been completed well before tiffin time had not the stream of unwanted hawkers, canvassers and campaigners not interrupted every sweep of my path. I feigned deafness; I attempted to impersonate an itinerant casual worker hired by the homeowner. After two hours, I surveyed my handiwork. Then he arrived (and we’ve all met them): the door to door salesman who won’t take no for an answer. “Good afternoon sir, nice job of the drive by the way, and

don’t worry I’m not selling anything. Could you tell me who your electricity supplier is?” I had my new stock answer at the ready: “Sorry mate, I rent this place.” “Okay, your landlord doesn’t pay your gas bill though, does he?” Hmm, I hadn’t thought of that - time to act quickly. “It’s in with the rent.” My sceptical utilities advocate was having none of it, so I resorted to a quick squirt from my lance to send him on his way. Jet wash complete, Sarah called me in for tea. Boots and paraphernalia back in the garage, I entered the porch laden with tea towels, dusters and a sink plunger.

“Tom, what’s all that stuff in your hands?” “Well, this lad turned up just now and he’s fresh out of jail and he’s trying to put his life back on track and he’s part of this scheme and…” “How much were those dusters?” “Six pounds fifty.” “Tom! Down the precinct they’re 99p!” “Well, we can afford it.” “You know what you are Tom? A salesman’s dream.” And as the sun began setting over the roof, to avoid any more utility salesman, furtively, my thoughts turned to solar panels....

Cake and Bake

Baking

White Chocolate Filo Tarts Crisp and light pastry cases filled with a rich and creamy white chocolate mousse – these tarts are easy to make but look impressive. Double up the quantities if serving a crowd.

Ingredients: • 25g unsalted butter, melted • 6-8 sheets filo pastry • 100g good quality white chocolate • 2 tbsp milk • 150ml double cream • Dark chocolate curls and cocoa, to decorate

Makes 6 Ready in 45 minutes, plus cooling and chilling

TIP You can make the pastry cases a few hours in advance but only fill just before serving otherwise the pastry will go soggy.

1. Preheat the oven to 190C, 170C fan, Gas Mark 5. Use a little of the melted butter to grease 6 holes of a 12hole bun tray.

2. Use a sharp knife to cut the pastry into 18cm x 10cm squares. Brush each square lightly with some of the remaining melted butter.

3. Line each buttered hole with three of the squares,

arranging each one at an angle so the corners form a star. Press gently into the holes.

4. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the

pastry is crisp and golden brown. Leave to cool in the tray.

5. To make the white chocolate filling, break the

chocolate into pieces and place in a heatproof bowl with the milk. Set the bowl over a pan of simmering water. Leave until the chocolate has melted then remove from the heat and stir until smooth. Cool for 10 minutes.

6. Pour the cream into a bowl and whip the cream until softly peaking. Gently fold in the cooled chocolate mixture and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

7. Gently spoon the chocolate cream between the filo

pastry cases. Decorate with the dark chocolate curls and a dusting of cocoa powder. Serve within 1 hour of filling.

Thwarting the Hackers

Computer Tip

Reports of some big company being hacked and its users’ data compromised are almost daily news. It’s seems that it’s more a case of asking when a particular service will be hacked rather than if. That means taking precautions against the inevitable, the biggest one being to never, ever reuse the same password on more than one website. If you do, then if one website is hacked the baddies have the password for your other sites and services too. And while we’re at it, let’s make sure we don’t use easily guessable passwords either: the UK’s favourite password is currently 12345678. If you need to create strong passwords you’ll never remember, an online service such as 1Password or LastPass will do the remembering for you. Apple’s Safari can do the same on Macs, iPhones and iPads, although many third-party password services are available too.

Beauty

Beauty Summer Lovin’ by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

Have you packed for your summer holiday yet? You might want to find room in your case for one of these beauty treats…

I have a confession. I am just a little bit addicted to travel sets. I love trying new products, and the miniature sizes make me feel like Alice in Wonderland. So it’s fair to say that when the Neal’s Yard Remedies new skincare sets arrived at my door I got rather excited. And I wasn’t disappointed when I tried them out. There are five sets available, including the Award Winning set, which includes Wild Rose Beauty Balm, White Tea Facial Mist, Beauty Sleep Concentrate and White Tea Facial Mask. Each treat is the perfect size for a few days away, and they all smell amazing. The facial mist is lovely and refreshing, and the balm is perfect for soothing chapped lips, travel weary feet and dry skin. Sets cost from £20, www.nealsyardremedies.com.

Shorter 1 page form If you’re nota lucky t al enough to be jetting so a vaCaribbean ilable off to the for a two week spa

break, you can at least treat yourself to an at-home spa experience. Janjira’s latest Therapy Massage Grapefruit and Tangerine candle smells amazing – think cocktails on a balmy summer’s evening in the tropics. It’s made with natural ingredients, such as coconut oil. As it melts you can use it as a massage oil, or just a body oil if you don’t have a willing masseuse to hand. Divine. £32, from www. janjira.co.uk. When you’re used to an electric toothbrush, a manual one just doesn’t cut it for holidays. Enter the Sonic Chic Urban Portable Toothbrush. It comes with its own cap to keep the brush clean, and is battery powered so there’s no need to pack a charger. There are several designs to choose between, from vintage kitsch to tribal patterns. The Sonic Chic Urban Portable Toothbrush is available from Boots for £19.99, which includes two heads and a battery.

and dry off with a hairdryer or leave to air dry. Easy. It gives curls and waves a If you’re lookingand for a bit more oomph adds styling and product to give your volume bounce to fine, wavy hair a lift, try Philip lifeless locks. Unlike others Mitchell’s Awapuhi Wild on the market, it doesn’t Ginger Texturizing Sea leave hair feeling ‘crunchy’, Spray. Spray a light mist stiff or sticky. From £7.25, over damp hair, scrunch www.paul-mitchell.co.uk. your hair slightly with a towel curl upwell intoaware a bun, I’m sureoryou’re off with aofhairdryer ofand thedry importance or leave to air dry. Easy. It gives curls and waves a bit more oomph and adds volume and bounce to fine, lifeless locks. Unlike others on the market, it doesn’t leave hair feeling ‘crunchy’, stiff or sticky. From £7.25, www.paul-mitchell.co.uk. I’m sure you’re well aware of the importance of

to irritate skin. At £25 for a full size tube it’s not cheap, but it’s got to be wearing lotion. Unfortunately for one of thesun besttan natural us sensitiveavailable. types, protecting against skin sunscreens cancer mean putting up with extra It’s easy can to massage irritation. Natural Sun Screen in, doesn’t Odylique’s leave a SPF30 doesn’t white residue, and is containwith anynourishing artificial packed preservatives, ingredients suchcolours, as shea fragrances or sun butter and chamomile it’sfeeling less likely tofilters, leaveso skin to irritate skin. At £25 for pampered. a full size tube it’s not cheap, but it’s got to be one of the best natural sunscreens available. It’s easy to massage in, doesn’t leave a white residue, and is packed with nourishing ingredients such as shea butter and chamomile to leave skin feeling pampered.

Lazy Days

Book Review

Whether you’re stretching out on a sun lounger, or just grabbing an hour’s peace and quiet in your garden, a good book is a summer essential in our opinion.

Standard Deviation – Katherine Heiny Graham’s second wife, Audra, is warm, sociable and always ready to throw herself headlong into any situation. The total opposite of his first wife, Elspeth, in fact. So when Elspeth unexpectedly comes back into Graham’s life, he finds himself wondering how on earth he could have fallen in love with two such different women, and whether he’s ended up with the right one. If you like quirky characters, wry humour and reflections on the absurdities of everyday life, this book is for you. Palace of Curiosities – Rosie Garland Abel and Eve are not like other people. Abel’s body heals itself. He has no idea how old he is, but his fractured memories suggest he’s been alive for a very long time. Eve – the Lion Girl – is covered from head to toe in golden hair. Together they are the two main attractions in a show featuring extraordinary people. Set in Victorian England, this is a beautiful tale of humanity and what it means to be ‘different’ in a world that prizes convention.

Reservoir 13 – Jon McGregor A teenage girl goes missing while on holiday in an English village. Seasons come and go and life goes on, but the girl’s mysterious disappearance continues to affect village life. Some people dream of finding her alive, others of discovering her body. This is not a crime novel, more a glimpse into human nature. There are a lot of characters, and you get to know each one as they go about their daily lives. It’s a quiet book, but it certainly draws you in. 100% Real – Sam Talbot If you’re looking for inspiration for healthy, tasty summer recipes, this book could be just what you need. While its focus is on clean eating, it’s not just about chia seeds and green tea. Recipes include White Fish Curry, Jerk Chicken, and Dark Chocolate Soufflé with Rum Cream. Recipes are accompanied by full page photos, and are, on the whole, easy to follow. From light lunches and snacks to dishes to impress friends, you’ll find yourself reaching for this cookery book time and time again.

Once in a Blue Moon Lodge – Lorna Landvik A warm, comfortable kind of story with great characters, first loves, old flames and family dynamics. Once in a Blue Moon Lodge follows a family over two decades – Nora, her mother Patty Jane and her grandmother Ione. It’s the sequel to Patty Jane’s House of Curl, but works as a stand-alone novel. There is a large cast of characters, and the timeline is hard to follow at times, as it jumps from past to present. Nevertheless, it’s a very enjoyable beach read. The Trouble with Goats and Sheep – Joanna Cannon It’s 1976 and 10 year old Grace’s neighbour, Mrs Creasy, has gone missing. With her best friend Tilly in tow, Grace sets out to solve the mystery. It soon becomes apparent that the community is hiding plenty of secrets, some of which go back almost a decade. Grace comes across as rather naive for her age at times, but she’s very likeable. A funny, easy read that will make waiting around at a station or airport much more bearable.

Hyundai Gets Wacky A concept car is a good way for manufacturers to gauge public reaction to a design, prior to possible mass manufacture. One example is Ford’s Probe 3, which ultimately morphed into the Sierra. It may seem strange today but, in 1981, the public were initially reluctant to accept the jelly mould curves of the Probe, being more used to the square lines of the then current cars. How times and our expectations change. So they may seem wacky now but these concept offerings from Hyundai may eventually be accepted as the norm in our cars. • I.Guardian is a speed ramp that extends out of the side of school buses or taxis to slow traffic

as it passes. An interesting idea and anything that makes motorists adhere to those “20 is Plenty” signs outside schools is welcome in my book. • Moving Forest is a filter unit that sits on the top of Hyundai’s electric cars and cleans the air of dust and dirt. It looks like one of those ski shaped roof boxes and Hyundai suggest it could find a home in coaches and lorries. • Parents will relate to this idea - taking inspiration from kid’s finger painting on misted up windows, with Sketch Book, they now breathe on an interactive screen, do their doodling, which is then saved to the Cloud and can be accessed on other smart devices. Perhaps Sketch Book will keep the little ones so occupied that you in the front won’t hear from the back. “Are we there yet?” Time will tell. By Iain Betson

Portrait Half Page Version als o available

Driving

Finance

By Ann Haldon

Using credit and debit cards abroad this year? What you should know before you go can be cheaper to withdraw cash instead.

Spending money abroad can be costlier than you think if you’re not prepared for the fees and ‘hidden’ charges. Whether you choose to take a debit or credit card, it pays to check the small print in your terms and conditions before you go. You could save a considerable amount in added interest and charges, potentially including: • An extra fee added to the currency exchange rate, known as a non-sterling transaction fee – this can be as much as 3% of each transaction. • Fees for withdrawing cash from ATMs abroad – although many people are aware of this fee when using a credit card, some banks also charge a cash withdrawal fee for debit cards. • Credit card companies can charge interest on cash withdrawn abroad, even if the balance is repaid in full at the end of the month. • Certain debit card providers charge a fee for shopping with their debit card abroad, so if there is no alternative, it

holiday spend.

With that in mind, here are a few tips on using credit and debit cards abroad, so you can save money and maximise your

Specialist credit and debit cards for overseas use only Rather than taking your ‘regular’ credit or debit card on holiday, look for specialist cards designed to be used abroad, as these are intended to reduce the cost of holiday spending. If you find one that’s suitable and your application is successful, however, just make sure you pay off the balance in full every month. The interest rates on these cards are extremely high if you don’t, which could wipe out any savings you’ve made. The best overseas credit cards generally offer much better exchange rates than local retailers. So if you use a credit card and you’re asked which currency you want pay in, choose the local currency as it’s likely to save you money – more on Dynamic Currency Conversion below. Credit cards for holiday spending are generally easier to obtain than debit cards If your current bank doesn’t offer a specialist debit card for

use abroad, you may have to switch your bank account to obtain one. Alternatively, you could just open a new account with the provider, but this might seem a little unnecessary when there is an easier alternative in credit cards.

Shorter 1 page format also ava abyou Be carefulilwhen leapply for a new card though - your credit file is adversely affected when applications are refused. The Money Saving Expert website offers an ‘eligibility calculator’ to give you an idea of your chances of acceptance, and help you narrow down the choices.

Credit cards offer consumer protection When you buy a product or service between £100 and £30,000 using your credit card, you’re automatically entitled to consumer protection. Under Section 75 legislation, your credit card provider accepts equal responsibility with the retailer for the item(s) purchased, making it easier to obtain a refund if necessary – an important consideration when you’ve bought the item abroad. Debit cards can be better if you’re going to withdraw mainly cash Although taking a dedicated credit card for use abroad has many benefits, if you intend to withdraw mainly cash, a specialist debit card will probably be cheaper overall as there are usually no added charges or fees for this.

Be careful about card ‘cloning’ When you use a card abroad, or anywhere in fact, be aware of the danger of cloning. This can happen when the card is taken out of your sight, or even when it’s right in front of you if you aren’t taking notice. When a card is cloned the person taking payment swipes it through a small device that looks like a pager - because this device is so small, it could be attached to a belt or placed in their pocket. It’s easy, therefore, to steal the information on the card’s magnetic strip. Your details are then imprinted onto a brand new card, or overwritten onto a card that’s already been stolen. Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) Some retailers abroad will offer to convert your purchase

into sterling when you pay by card, so you can see exactly how much you’ve spent. This process is called dynamic currency conversion, or cardholder preferred currency. The problem is that you’ll probably lose out on the exchange rate by paying this way. Local retailers choose whether or not to offer this service, and in some cases may automatically convert your purchase to sterling without asking you. It’s a good idea, therefore, to check whether DCC has been used prior to signing a payment slip or entering your PIN. Avoiding the non-sterling transaction fee Although your bank uses the MasterCard, Visa and Amex optimum exchange rates, the charge for conversion adds

a non-sterling transaction fee of up to 3% to your bill when you use a non-specialist card abroad. Finding the best card may take a little research, but your time and effort will be repaid via the extra holiday treats you’ll be able to enjoy. www.moneysavingexpert.com/ travel/travel-credit-cards www.moneysavingexpert.com/ shopping/section75-protect-yourpurchases www.moneysupermarket.com/ travel-money/using-credit-cardsabroad/ creditcards.moneysavingexpert. com/?travel&_ga=2.1383768 16.1530821389.1495096415200857501.1494082078 www.creditnet.com/Library/ Credit_Card_FAQ/How_do_ credit_cards_get_cloned. ccfaq_019.php

Gardening

It’s Not Always Good To Be Green by Pippa Greenwood

Water is great in a garden and whether you have a large pond, a formal pool, a miniature pond in a half barrel or a self-contained fountain or other water feature, the chances are that from time to time you will have been frustrated by the fact that the water turns green: the so-called ‘pea-soup’ effect! Generally, this will be due to one of many different types of algae infestation, and this problem tends to get much worse during warmer weather. Sometimes it completely ruins the appearance of the water feature and on other occasions it is just a passing phase, but what should you do about it? Blanket weed is so called because the long filaments of algae tangle up together, making a mass that resembles a dense green blanket. The easiest way to remove this once it has taken hold is to simply pull or rake it out. Over large areas a rake is worthwhile, providing you can avoid bringing the pond

plants with it. Alternatively, use a stick or bamboo cane that you twirl into the mass of algae (rather as you would load spaghetti onto a fork) and then compost it down in your compost bin. Surface floating pond weeds such as duckweed, which looks like lots of very tiny oval leaves floating on the water’s surface, can be a real nightmare too. Sometimes it is impossible to work out how it got there, but I think it is often brought in on new plants or simply on the feet of birds or other creatures as they come to the pond to drink. It builds up very rapidly, soon forming a bright green layer on the surface and the best control for this is to regularly scrape the weed off using a good-sized kitchen sieve. Again it can be composted, but do make sure that you remove every scrap of it from your pond or it will soon be back. Where possible, try to avoid the build-up of algae by creating your pond carefully and taking precautions with

Shorter 1 page format also available

what you grow and keep in it. Avoid making a new pond in a very sunny position, as lots of sunlight increases the algal growth and makes the problem worse. Bear in mind, however, that a pond situated too close to a large tree will soon become clogged by leaves over the autumn months! You should also make sure that the pond is as deep as possible: shallow water is much more inclined to develop algal problems than a pond which has deeper water. If you want fish that’s fine, but avoid putting too many fish in a pond as their excreta raises the nitrogen level in the water and this encourages algae. It really helps if you grow plenty of surface floating plants – water lilies are a wonderful solution, as they help to shade the water’s surface and so are particularly useful if the pond is in a fairly sunny site. I’d also suggest that with a new or existing pond, you go down to your local garden centre or pond plant supplier

and ask for a selection of oxygenating plants. Some of these float in bundles in the water, others can be grown in containers, and all of them help to raise the level of oxygen in the pond and so decrease the problem with algae. Installing something which moves the water around, such as a spout or fountain, will help to reduce the amount of algae because it also oxygenates the water, but do bear in mind that water lilies do not like water that is in motion. It is important not to give up on a pond too quickly – if you keep changing the water in an attempt to keep it clear, the pond never gets the chances to create its

own natural balance and the situation will not get better. Try to be patient and usually, provided you try all the above, the pond will eventually sort itself out and you can enjoy seeing clear water again. You can consider using various proprietary physical and chemical controls for algae, but always make sure that the one you have chosen is suitable for your size and type of pond and that it can be used safely where wildlife or your pond fish are living. The much-loved method of using barley straw to clear algae in ponds does work, but it is essential that you have straw taken from barley and no other cereal crop. If you can get hold of this, cram

some of it into something like an old pair of tights and submerge in the water by weighing them down with several bricks. Alternatively, you can buy pads of barley straw, in some instances mixed with lavender stalks, and these will help to do the job for you. Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for her ‘Winter thru’ Spring Collection’ of gorgeous UK-grown garden-ready vegetable plants ready for delivery in September. You’ll also find many gardening items including growing frames, SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, raised bed kits, Nemaslug and other nematode controls, copper tape, pull-out EasyTunnels, signed books and lots more besides.

Health

By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk

Jet Lag and Joy Lag: How to Recover from Your Holiday

Holidays should be a chance to relax and revitalise ourselves. So why do we sometimes feel miserable and exhausted afterwards, and how can we prevent it? Jet Lag Jet lag refers to symptoms caused by disruption to your ‘body clock’ when you travel to a different time-zone. They can include changed bowel habits, tiredness, headache, anxiety, confusion and nausea. Their severity depends on age and how many time zones you cross. One or two? No problem. Three to six? You’ll feel it. Seven to twelve? You’ll need a few days to adapt, particularly when travelling east, as it’s often easier to delay sleep than make yourself sleep after a shorter day. Reducing Jet Lag Jet lag when you arrive on holiday is inconvenient, but when you return, it can be a problem – especially if you have to adapt quickly to everyday life. While you can’t prevent jet lag, there are ways to help reduce

•

its effects. • If possible, gradually move your routine closer to that of your new time zone several days before departure. • Ensure you’re wellrested and hydrated before and during your flight. Nap on the plane if night time will be a long time away when you arrive. If you want to stay awake, keep active (essential for reducing the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis on long flights). Avoid alcohol, which may increase symptoms. Remember that caffeinated drinks (e.g. tea, coffee and cola) may keep you awake. Adjust to the new time zone immediately. Resist napping on arrival unless it’s night time. Use the calculator created by Dr Idzikowski of Edinburgh Sleep Centre, to tell you how to use daylight to reduce jet lag at www.ba.com/jetlag.

Joy Lag (Post-HoLiday BLues and exHaustion) It’s not uncommon to feel glum and exhausted when you get back from your holiday. Perhaps you overdid it, packing in too many activities and trips, overindulging and not getting enough sleep. Returning to your work, responsibilities,

holiday laundry, gloomy weather and an untidy house can be daunting, too – and there’s no holiday to look forward to anymore.

longer 1½JoypLagage Preventing Before try to foyour rmholiday, aLess t afrantic pack gradually. l so packing will help to prevent a v back ilatobalmess. you cominga e If you can afford it, book a treat

to look forward to a few weeks post-holiday. Stock up on easy meals for your return and if you can, book a day or two off after your holiday to adjust. during your holiday, don’t cram every moment with trips or organised activities. Shortlist trips, check the weather forecast and any special events and then plan the best days to venture out. Reserve other days for relaxation or a short trip to a local attraction or restaurant. Try to make the journey home as fun and relaxing as possible. Perhaps you could break your journey at a restaurant, or even a hotel – doing the final run home on a full holiday breakfast. after your holiday, be kind to yourself. Cook easy meals or treat yourself by eating out or having a takeaway. Conversely, though, start on the washing as soon as you’re back. It will only take a minute or two and you’ll know you’ve made a start. Put suitcases out of sight until they’re empty. Here’s wishing you reduced jet lag, reduced joy lag and Happy Holidays!

History

A Potted Pub History By Catherine Rose - the counter separating the publican from the public - dates from the 1600s and is derived from the Latin word ‘barra’ meaning ‘barrier’.

A public house is a building licensed to serve alcoholic drinks. Its roots can be traced back to Roman taverns and Anglo-Saxon alehouses. The Roman invasion brought many enduring features to our island, one of which was tabernae, introduced to England in around 40 AD. Originally set up to serve wine to thirsty Roman troops, these tabernae or taverns soon began to sell English ale too. Subsequent invasion saw the Anglo-Saxons adopting the tradition and ale (and later beer) houses became a feature of every village and town. Some alehouses and taverns started to offer hot meals and overnight accommodation to the weary traveller. These became known as inns (the word ‘inn’ means ‘lodging house’). The term ‘public house’ came into use during the reign of King Henry VII and, in 1552, an Act was passed to ensure that innkeepers had a licence to run their premises. The word ‘bar’

In those days, beer would have been very different to what we drink today. It was generally homebrewed, much weaker than today’s beer and widely drunk in lieu of water which was usually unsafe, especially in towns and cities. English ale was originally brewed without hops. Once hop flowers were added to the ale, beer was born. Today, beer encompasses a wide range of beverages from ales, bitters and mild to lagers and stout. By the mid-1600s, cheap spirits were being imported from France and Holland and these also became very popular. Pictorial pub signage developed at a time when many people were illiterate, and it was customary to have visual signs hanging outside shops (for example, the barber’s red and white pole or the three balls of the pawnbroker). Some popular pub names are in fact corruptions of old English - for example, the ‘Pig and Whistle’ is said to have evolved from the ‘Peg and Wassail’. A ‘peg’ was a unit of measurement inside a tankard and ‘to wassail’ means to drink to someone’s health.

In 1830, beer tax was abolished and there was a huge growth in unlicensed beer houses, which were frequently set up in people’s homes with different rooms for drinking in. Having separate bars developed further during the class-conscious Victorian era, when people would segregate themselves according to social status.

longer 1½ page format also available

In 1869, the beer regulations were tightened again, heralding the growth of the brewing industry. Breweries began to take ownership of many of the public houses, leasing them back to landlords. Is the era of the public house coming to an end? Due to the current financial climate, many pubs have had to close their doors since the turn of this century, and those that remain are shifting their focus towards becoming gastropubs. Breweries are also selling off their premises due to lack of profitability. One positive outcome is that there are more ‘free houses’ again and microbreweries are enjoying a resurgence as a result. Despite the decline, the British pub remains loved and admired all around the world for its atmosphere and character. And there is still nothing like having a pint in your local on a Friday night.

Image: Tavern Scene (1658), Artist: David Teniers II

Hobbies

Who Needs To Run When You Can WALK? By Kate McLelland

It’s my first time with a local Nordic walking group, and no matter how hard I try, I remain at the back of the line while my companions steam on ahead. When we stop I am more than slightly out of breath and deeply apologetic about lagging so far behind. The others laugh at my serious expression, telling me that most ‘newbies’ quickly learn to keep up, once they have mastered the simple technique required. My fellow walkers come from different backgrounds and are of varying heights, ages and fitness levels. However, all are unanimous in their praise of Nordic Walking. As we sit and chat over a cup of coffee at the end of the session, they tell me about the transformational effect walking has had on their lives, from aiding recovery after a hip operation to helping with weight loss. Walking the Nordic Way Nordic Walking originally began as a summer training regime for cross-country skiers. In order to walk the Nordic way, you use poles that engage your arms and upper body, propelling

Shorter 1 pagphysical you forward. This removes e activity recommend that adults participate in pressure from the knees, forlighter of “moderate mat a150lsminutes making you feel much o aerobic, intensity, physical on your feet; that’s the availabactivity” every week, which reason why Nordic Walking le down to thirty minutes breaks is often taken up by people who have undergone a hip replacement operation.

It’s recommended that you learn the technique required from a qualified instructor, and you can find lists at either nordicwalking. co.uk (call 01392 956 856) or britishnordicwalking. org.uk (call 01446 773 876). Classes range from gentle walks for people with health concerns to workout walks designed to improve fitness, encourage weight loss and tone the body. Most instructors will provide the poles required; other than that, all you need is good walking shoes and appropriate, weatherproof clothing. Why walking is good for health However, if you’re not keen on striding out with the help of poles, a reasonably brisk conventional walk can do you almost as much good. The UK Chief Medical Officer’s guidelines on

of exercise per day, five days per week. If every person in the UK followed the CMO’s recommendations, it would save 37,000 lives each year and lead to around 300,000 fewer cases of type 2 diabetes. The health benefits are even greater for heart patients. Research carried out by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in California discovered that brisk walking was more effective than running in reducing the risk of heart disease. What’s more, the benefits of walking aren’t limited to physical health. The mental health charity “Mind” claims that countryside walks can raise self-esteem and reduce depression, and most doctors agree that exercise can improve sleep patterns. Although thirty minutes is the ideal length of time for a daily walk, Dr I-Min Lee, a professor at Harvard Medical School, suggests starting

with three ten minute walks each day, then building up to the full 30 minutes when you feel more confident.

Achilles notch: a little dip cut into the back, designed to relieve stress on the Achilles tendon.

The right way to walk It’s vital to maintain a good posture when you walk, so tighten your stomach muscles and keep your spine straight, with shoulders relaxed and your chin parallel to the ground, trying not to lean too far forward or too far back. Let your arms swing naturally and use the whole of your foot as you walk, rolling from heel to toe. Good shoes will improve stability and allow your feet to bend naturally: they should be made of waterproof material, with a thick heel (to absorb the shock as your heel contacts the ground) and flexible soles. Also look out for an

Walkers should always be aware of any potential hazards in their path, but don’t be tempted to look down at your feet, as this will alter the alignment of your spine. Casting your gaze just a few feet ahead allows you to keep your head upright whilst still looking out for trip hazards or muddy puddles. Although figures released by the RAC Foundation suggest that pedestrian casualties on our roads are reducing year on year, it is sensible to take precautions if part of your walking route includes a public highway. The Highway Code advises walkers to keep to the right-hand side

of the road so they can see oncoming traffic, but to temporarily cross over before a sharp right-hand bend in order to remain visible to traffic. Wearing high visibility clothing or reflective materials at night or in murky conditions will also help car drivers see you. Back at home, after my first Nordic walking session, I’m aware that my body has had a thorough workout and I look forward to soaking in a hot bath as a reward for all that exercise. Next time I see a runner I won’t feel my usual pang of guilt that I’m not out there as well, with my heart racing and my feet pounding the tarmac. I’ve found my ideal form of exercise, and it’s as simple as putting one foot in front of the other.

Home Interiors

Home & Interiors Eco Chic at Home

By Katherine Sorrell Try to think less about all the things you think you need, and ask yourself instead what you really don’t need. The three rules of green living are, first, to reduce what you use; second, to reuse what you can; and third, to recycle as much as possible. So, rather than getting rid of things carelessly, consider how you could adapt them and give them another life. Perhaps you could re-cover that comfortable, perfectly sized old sofa instead of buying a new one, clad the top of an old table with a thin sheet of marble, or repaint a boring kitchen chair with a special effect, for example.

Shorter 1 page format also available

Being an eco-warrior doesn’t have to be a battle. With just a little thought and effort, you can decorate your home beautifully without harming the planet. Can ‘going green’ ever be stylish? Of course! While you might start with some basics, such as switching to LED light bulbs, insulating your loft or lagging your boiler, the end of your journey could be a chic, sophisticated home that’s filled with furnishings that are natural, sustainable and durable – in other words, minimising harm to the planet. From floors to ceilings, fabrics to accessories, small changes in your choices can create big eco-transformations. First, think about your priorities - because there are plenty of different ways to help the environment. Should you aim to be low carbon, non-toxic or

energy efficient? Renewable, fair trade, locally sourced, organic or simply ‘natural’? The answer is not always obvious (and you will need to try very hard to satisfy every criteria) but some simple research will help you weigh up your options. Look out for labels, such as FSC to show that timber has been responsibly sourced, or Goodweave that tells you that a rug has not been woven by a child. Ask where things come from, what they contain, how they have been made. Buy from a specialist retailer who can demonstrate their green credentials, look out for reclaimed, recycled or upcycled products, or buy antique or vintage pieces – they are often very well made, can be breathtakingly good-looking and are certainly long-lasting; many would argue that they are the greenest of all, being the ultimate in recycling.

When you do buy new, you may want to support local artisans or businesses (reducing your carbon footprint in terms of import miles, too), or fair trade, co-operative or social initiatives overseas, which ensure fair pay and conditions for their workers. And it is well worth investigating eco choices for virtually everything around the house – from natural floorings such as sisal, cork, Marmoleum or wool carpets, to alternatives to cotton (which uses huge amounts of fresh water and pesticides) such as linen, hemp and alpaca. How much harm does a product cause to the environment during its production, and what toxins does it contain? Chemicals in paint, fabrics, synthetic carpets, plywood furniture and other man-made

materials may ‘off gas’ for years, doing no one much good – another excellent reason to check the labelling. Lastly, always bear in mind the beauty of natural materials, from oak and slate to bamboo and linen, in terms of both colour and texture. Subtle shades of browns, greys and off-whites, and tactile appeal that ranges from supersoft to satisfyingly knobbly – everything works together without your having to try too hard, and they will age gracefully, too, adding gentle good looks to your home for a long time to come.

Main iMage: TWells vase collection made from 100% recycled glass, from £15, garden Trading: 01993 845559; gardentrading.co.uk.

What the labels mean FSC The Forest Stewardship Council logo on wood products shows they have been produced from responsibly grown timber. goodweave The label is an assurance that no child labour was used in the making of your rug. C2C Cradle to Cradle certification is a detailed appraisal of products throughout their life cycle. Low VOC Low in potentially hazardous emissions called volatile organic compounds (most often found on paint tins). eU eco-label A flower symbol that can be used by goods and services which have a lighter environmental footprint than similar products performing the same function. Fairtrade The Fairtrade Mark is awarded to products that meet international Fairtrade standards, including meeting the welfare of employers and environmental standards. The Mobius Loop The symbol showing three arrows chasing each other in a triangle shape is an internationally recognised recycling symbol. Energy Efficiency The Energy Efficiency logo identifies produces which save or use less energy.

Life Begins

Can Sleeping Apart Bring You Closer Together? by Kate McLelland

The duvet twitches, followed by footsteps on the bedroom floor and the creaking of a door: it’s four o’clock in the morning and your partner is on the move for the second time that night. Thanks to this interruption, you’re now wide awake, and as you lie there in the darkness, you wonder how to broach the subject of sleeping in separate beds...

sleeping apart, there’s no need to feel alone. According to a 2015 survey by the National Sleep Foundation, almost one in four of us now sleep in separate beds or bedrooms, and in a recent poll by silversurfers.com, 84% of respondents aged 50+ said they believed sharing a bed wasn’t essential for a happy relationship.

Most individuals need around eight hours’ sleep a night to function well, but this can vary from person to person. As a general rule, if you wake up feeling tired and have to catch up with a nap during the day, you’re probably not getting enough sleep. In the short term the symptoms of sleep deprivation can include memory loss, difficulty in concentrating and mood changes, but in the longer term lack of sleep can result in serious conditions such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes.

So what are the options if you do decide to sleep separately? When the time came to replace an old double bed, Max and Celia Stoddart from Hampshire took the decision to replace it with twin beds. Celia says: “The idea came to us when we booked a week in a hotel. We’d reserved a room with a double bed, but they only had a twin. When we got home at the end of the week, we both agreed that we’d slept better than we had done in years.”

While the health argument alone is enough to justify a conversation about separate beds, it’s a difficult topic to discuss face-to-face. But if you’ve reached the end of your tether and are seriously considering the option of

Vihann Khan’s sleep apnoea meant his snoring kept wife Nazneen awake at night. While he was receiving treatment, Nazneen regularly escaped to a spare bed set up in their guest room. Although Vihann’s condition has now improved, Nazneen still uses the spare bed from time to time. She

longer says: “At times when I can’t 1½ to know ageI have sleep, it helps p somewhere to escape. We formattheanight always start out l s o together, but he knows there’s a v a ilwake ablupealone in a chance he’ll the morning.” Jill and Maurice McGiver from Renfrewshire were unhappy about the idea of sleeping apart, but both agreed that they would sleep better if they had more space. For them, investing in a kingsize bed was the solution. “We have an average-size bedroom and the bed now takes up most of the available space,” says Maurice, “but it has been worth the sacrifice to get a good night’s sleep. If you live in a small flat or a cottage, a kingsize bed may not work for you, but for us it’s been a lifesaver.” Although these couples have found different solutions to their sleeping problems, all three agree that the changes they have made have not only improved their health and wellbeing, but have also enhanced their relationships. So perhaps the idea that sleeping apart can bring you together isn’t so far-fetched after all!

The Life List Hey, You’re a Novelist! When some people find out you write novels it can make them more than curious. Here are comments writers routinely face...and some creative responses! 1. How much money have you made? “Tell me what you earn first.” “Van Gogh only sold one painting in his lifetime, so I’m ahead on volume.” 2. It must be great not having to work for a living. “True. I sit in coffee shops all day, using their wifi to read my reviews.” “Yes, luckily the faeries write my books for me.” 3. I’ve got some great ideas you could buy.

“I wouldn’t want to deprive you of your own genius.” “What, on my (undisclosed) earnings?”

Portrait 4. Can my child do work experience with you Halin.f Page - they’re looking for a way “Not unless I startV a chimney cleaning ersion also business.” “Only if they type 90 words a minute, availcoffee.” able proofread, and make decent

Life List

5. My friend is a better writer than you. “Good luck in your new career as a motivational speaker.” “Remind me never to ask you for an online book review.” 6. Will you introduce me to your agent / publisher? “Just send them a synopsis and three sample chapters, like I did.” “I’ll let you know when they’re next aboard my yacht - so we can wave at you.” 7. You can’t be much of a writer if you need a ‘real’ job as well.

By Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.co.uk

Motoring

By James Baggott

Paddleboarding in a Picanto latest city cars and pointed us towards the coast.

To prove just how practical its new city car can be, Kia challenged James Baggott to tackle the Italian coast on a paddleboard. It’s all too easy to pigeonhole cars like the Kia Picanto as city centre shopping carts, fit for nothing more than a quick trip to the supermarket. While it might be true that the Korean car firm’s baby has traditionally been bought by grandparents and students, it’s an image the brand is desperately hoping it can shed. This is the third generation of Kia’s second bestselling UK car and with it comes more aggressive looks, a sharper driving style and clever technology aimed at helping it appeal to a far broader spectrum of buyers. That’s why I find myself on a paddle-boarding adventure in Italy: to prove the new Picanto’s versatility, Kia has invited us to the Toscana coastline, crammed two blow-up paddleboards, wet suits and a picnic in the back of one of their

Costing from just £9,450, the Picanto now boasts more passenger and luggage space but with no overall increase in size over the previous model. Inside there’s a 25 per cent increase in luggage space, topping 255 litres with the rear seats up and 1,010 litres with them down. That extra carrying capacity certainly comes in handy. The two giant paddleboards, overnight bags for two and accessories are easily swallowed in the boot, with space left over. There’s a choice of engines in the new model. Our test vehicle – in ‘2’ specification – features the 1.0 litre 66bhp unit. But there’s also a 1.25 litre 83bhp option and a 1.0 litre turbocharged option. Even the lowest output unit gets the city car to 60mph in 13.8 seconds and gives a top speed of 100mph, while sipping fuel at a miserly 64.2mpg rate on the combined cycle. Crossing the rich, lush green vine-covered Italian countryside near Grosseto as we attempt to find the beach, the Picanto’s light steering and peppy engine impresses, as does its ability

longer 1½ page format also available

to soak up potholes you’d fear would otherwise swallow it. As we approach the beach, the asphalt crumbles away and the Picanto skips between giant holes littering the sand-covered track to the water. After an hour’s paddleboarding followed by some impromptu surfing, there’s time to play with the kit while drying off in the supportive front seats of the Kia. It’s functional not flashy inside, and despite the smaller screen for the multimedia system on this mid-range ‘2’, it still works well with your phone, streaming Spotify perfectly. There’s air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, heated door mirrors and a leather trimmed steering wheel; that’s on top of the standard options, which include remote central locking, USB and AUX ports, electronic stability control and automatic emergency braking. Kia has certainly moved its Picanto on in leaps and bounds from its predecessor. On the road it’s sharper to drive, quieter and more sporty than ever before. Its new technology – which on higher specification models even includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – is impressive, while it’s a comfortable car to spend time in. What’s more, it’s always satisfying to know that even though it’s a car unlikely to shed that blue rinse stereotype, if you are a more adventurous owner it can cope admirably with all the kit you’ll need to escape city life.

Food, Health And Hygiene For Your New Hamster Hamsters are very sensitive creatures, so when you bring home your new pet, it’s a good idea to leave them to settle in for a few days. They need to feel safe and secure, and not disturbing them too much will also help them become familiar with their new surroundings. Along with maintaining hygienic living conditions, diet plays an important part in your hamster’s day-to-day health, so what should you feed them?

PETS

Best foods for your hamster Quality ready-mixed hamster food or pellets are available in good pet stores and supermarkets, and are a simple way to ensure your hamster receives the nutrients it needs. If you know the type of food they were given previously, it’s a good idea to carry on with the same regime to prevent upsetting their digestive system. Hamsters also enjoy fresh fruit and vegetables, but fruit should be given in tiny quantities as too much sugar can cause diabetes. A small piece of carrot, apple, or cucumber once or

Pets

twice a week will suffice.

Portrait Half Page Version als o available

Health and hygiene Your hamster’s cage should be cleaned thoroughly once a week with a safe disinfectant - more often in the area used as a toilet if they don’t have a litter tray. Hamster litter trays are very useful, particularly for smaller cages, and help your pet to stay clean. If you put a little of the old, dry bedding back in the cage, they’ll also be surrounded by their own scent, feeling safer as a result. www.petsathome.com/shop/en/ pets/advice/small-animal-careadvice/hamster-care-advice/ www.thehamsterhouse.com/ hamster-food/what-do-hamsterseat/ By Ann Haldon

Parenting

Have Kids, Will Travel by Kate Duggan kateduggan.co.uk Travelling with children can be a stressful experience. It’s less about browsing duty free, and more about staying one step ahead of a possible meltdown. We can’t promise you there won’t be any tears (yours or theirs), but our travel tips will at least give you a better chance of avoiding a full-on screaming fit. Keeping them entertained Smart phones, travel DVD players, tablets… Digital technology can be great for keeping kids occupied while you’re travelling. They can also make children a bit ‘wired’ and cranky though, so you might want to consider limiting screen time and making sure your kids take regular breaks. Pack a small bag with age-appropriate activities. Younger children usually love sticker books. Older kids might enjoy puzzle books or card games. Most ages will join in with games of I Spy, though you may struggle to guess your toddler’s ‘green elephant in my head’ or ‘biscuit in my tummy’. Do feed the animals There is an unwritten rule of childhood – a child must declare themselves to be

‘reeeally hungry’ within half an hour of embarking on a long journey. Bonus points are awarded for announcing this after being ‘too full’ to finish breakfast. So, be prepared. Pack plenty of travel friendly snacks, such as fruit, oat bars and mini sandwiches, and keep them somewhere easy to access. A lunchbox is ideal. Keep a plastic bag handy for rubbish. When it comes to drinks, stick to water, or they’ll need the loo even more frequently. All about the comfort If something is bothering a child, they find it harder to block it out than an adult. So an itch, ache or cold feet can easily end up ruining a journey. Layers are key. Think hoodies with zips, slipper socks that can be pulled on easily, and a snuggly blanket. Go for cotton clothing, as it’s less likely to cause irritation. Fleecy onesies might be comfy, but they can make children overheat, so are best kept for home. If you’re flying, try breast or bottle feeding your baby on takeoff and landing to stop them getting earache. Older children can avoid ear pain by sucking a sweet.

Stay one step ahead Spilled ketchup? No problem, you have a wet wipe. Too cold? Lucky you packed a jumper. Headache? Bring out the magical pink Calpol. Try to imagine everything that could go wrong, and work out how you can prepare for it. Because, in all likelihood, it will. Children have a habit of wandering off, so Which advise attaching a luggage tag to their clothing with your mobile phone number on it. You can also buy wrist tags that serve the same purpose. If you don’t have space for a pushchair, consider packing a sling. As well as stopping a toddler from running off, it gives them somewhere to sleep or rest while keeping your hands free. Allow extra time Everything seems to take longer when there are kids in tow. Teddies get lost, drinks get spilled and bladders get filled. Waiting around for a plane or train is never fun, but it beats running full pelt across an airport dragging a screaming child behind you. So it’s a good idea to allow plenty of extra time to get where you’re going. And relax…

Cream Of Pea & Herb Soup Serves 4

Recipe

Ready in 45 minutes, plus cooling

This light and creamy summery soup tastes delicious hot or cold. To serve cold, leave the soup to cool then chill in the fridge for 2-3 hours before serving. Top with a dollop of crème fraiche and serve with crusty bread, if liked. Melt the butter in a large deep pan. Add the leek and potato and cook over a medium heat for 10 minutes until beginning to soften.

Ingredients: •

25g butter

•

1 leek, trimmed and chopped

•

1 potato, peeled and diced

•

1 litre vegetable stock

•

400g fresh podded peas

•

Few fresh mint leaves

•

Few fresh dill sprigs, plus extra to garnish

•

Pinch of sugar

•

100ml double cream

•

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Pour in the stock and bring to the boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes until the potato is tender. Add nearly all the peas (reserve a few for garnish), mint, dill and sugar and simmer for a further 4-5 minutes. Cool the soup for 10 minutes then puree until almost smooth with a stick blender or in batches in a food processor. Return the pureed mixture to the pan and heat through gently. Stir in the cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

TIP

If fresh peas are unavailable use the same quantity of frozen peas instead.

Ladle into four warmed bowls and serve garnished with the reserved peas and dill sprigs.

Short Story

Short Story Aunty Josephine’s Kiosk The early morning sun glittered on the waves. Neville paced in front of Aunty Josephine’s Kiosk and checked the time. Apart from a chap walking his spaniel on the beach and a solitary teenager playing on roller skates down the promenade in the far distance, there was not a soul about. No sign yet of Josephine. Yesterday he’d overheard two locals talking in the pub about how Josephine now used wheels to get about. He saw his opportunity. He’d make her an offer for the kiosk; less than it was worth, but if she was getting frail she would be easy to negotiate with. Personally, he found the seaside dull, but there was money to be made from a beach full of holidaymakers. He watched the spaniel run after its ball into the surf, then glanced again along the promenade. It was still deserted apart from the teenager, who he could now see was a girl in a lime green helmet weaving perilously in and out of the bollards. He wished he had that much energy. To his relief, he heard the unmistakeable hum of a mobility scooter struggling up the ramp from the arcades. He buttoned his jacket and, preparing the concerned smile that he’d been practising since yesterday, he turned graciously to greet Josephine. To his disappointment the rider of the mobility scooter was just a gentleman in a turquoise

bomber jacket. He nodded to Neville as he rolled past. “Excuse me!” Neville called. “I don’t suppose you know when Aunty Josephine arrives to open up?” The gentleman applied his brakes and turned to face Neville. “Any time now.” He glanced at his watch. “Though to be fair, she’s been arriving a little late these days.” Neville nodded sympathetically. He was a canny enough businessman to appreciate that everyone who knew Josephine would be sad to see her in decline. Technically speaking Josephine was nobody’s aunty, yet she was as much a part of the fabric of this seaside town as the smell of fish and chips. She’d been the proprietor of the promenade kiosk for donkey’s years. From Easter until October she would hang out rows of colourful buckets, spades and windmills. In his youth, Neville had seen her vault over the counter to rescue a lilo from being snatched by the wind. She could blow up a beach ball in three puffs. Back then, Neville recalled, Josephine had been a force to be reckoned with. Once the deal was done, he’d get rid of all the buckets and nonsense. He couldn’t imagine anyone built sandcastles

anymore. He’d sell expensive cappuccinos instead, that’s what people liked these days. “Any idea when she’ll get here?” Neville asked. “I’ve got an appointment to discuss kiosk business with her.” “You’re brave.” The gentleman chuckled knowingly. “The last chap who tried that had to dig his own grave.” “Obviously, her situation’s now changed,” Neville said dismissively. “Do you actually know when she’ll get here?” “I’ve not got the best eyesight.” The man squinted along the promenade. “But isn’t this her coming towards us now?” Neville followed the man’s gaze, but the promenade was still deserted apart from the girl. “That’s just a teenager on roller skates,” Neville said. “Is she wearing a green helmet?” the man asked. “Yes,” Neville answered. “Is she doing stunts with the bollards like Evel Knievel?” the man asked. Neville nodded, his mouth agape. “That’ll be her then. Good luck with your meeting!” He rode off on his scooter with a pip of his horn. “I’m sure she’ll be happy to sell you a spade.” By Jackie Brewster

Technology Technology

A WORLD WITHOUT WIRES The best way to get wireless Wi-Fi at home or on the go If you go out and about this year, you’re in for a happy surprise: You don’t need to be travelling far from home to get free Wi-Fi. Many UK and Irish towns and cities have free Wi-Fi schemes - and most casual eating and coffee chains usually offer some form of free internet access. Just watch what you’re signing up for: such public-spirited provision is often there in order to capture valuable marketing data, so keep a close eye on any tick-boxes you’re expected to complete. It’s also a good idea to use a virtual private networking (VPN) service such as Tunnelbear (www. tunnelbear.com) or Windscribe (www.windscribe.com) to keep your connection private if you intend to use public Wi-Fi services. You never know who’s looking in.

If you’re staying at home and just want to get better reception around the house or in the garden, there are several ways to make your Wi-Fi work harder. The first, cheapest

and simplest thing to do to improve your WiFi connection is to move the router: ideally it should be higher than your furniture and obstacles such as radiators, which are hard for the radio waves to pass through. If your wireless router is getting on a bit it’s probably stuck with older, slow Wi-Fi technology, so if you can 3 stretch to an 802.11ac wireless router you’ll notice a huge difference in speed and range - provided of course your laptop, tablet or smartphone has the same 2 Wi-Fi support. If the speed is fine but the signal just doesn’t go far enough, a Wi-Fi extender may be just the trick: it connects to the network and throws the signal further, so for example you might extend your home Wi-Fi network to the garden or patio. It isn’t expensive or difficult, either: good Wi-Fi extenders are available for less than £40 and take seconds to set up. 1. Netgear Nighthawk 802.11ac router. 2. Wi-Fi dongle to upgrade PC’s wireless. 3. D-Link Wi-Fi extender.

Travel

Shwedagon Pagoda Myanmar By Solange Hando In Yangon, the former capital of Myanmar, a golden pagoda rises on Singuttara Hill, dominating the skyline as it has done, according to legend, for over 2,000 years. Far humbler in its early days, it is now over 100 metres high and is entirely covered in gold plates. Erected to house eight miraculous strands of the Buddha’s hair, rebuilt and extended over time, it is the most sacred monument in the country. Pilgrims add offerings of gold leaf every day, hoping to earn merits, though none could ever emulate Queen Shin Saw Pu who donated her weight in gold in the 15th century. At the foot of the steps leading up to the platform, lion-like mythological creatures guard each of the four entrances where stalls brim with multicoloured prayer flags, incense sticks, flowers, candles and more. The pagoda remains out of sight but when you emerge at the top, diamonds and gold hit you like lightning, a dazzling land of spires and shrines, stepped roofs and celestial beings gathered all around the central monument. The base is made of bricks covered in gold plates, the first terrace is reserved for monks

and men, then comes the massive bell-shaped section containing the relics and finally the spire silhouetted against the blue sky, boasting an amazing three tonnes of gold with Buddhist symbols and an umbrella crown encrusted with 4,531 diamonds, the largest a 76 carat solitaire. It defies imagination, and barefoot pilgrims and visitors must pause to catch their breath before proceeding clockwise around the stupa. Buddhist robes flutter all around, pink, brown, red or gold, and there is much bell ringing and chanting, prostrations, prayers, flickering lights and jasmine garlands leaving their scent in the air. The stupa is a closed structure but it can take an hour or two to stop at every pavilion and shrine. Among the most popular shrines are those dedicated to the eight days of the week (Wednesday is divided in two for astrological reasons), each one linked to a planet and a symbolic animal, giant bird, elephant, tiger and more. Many devotees make a wish at their birthday shrine, pouring water as a symbol of life and offering small umbrellas to keep away bad luck. Couples pray at the child-granting shrine, others meditate in the

Footprints Pavilion or gaze at the well where the Buddha’s hair was cleaned before it was enshrined. Meanwhile, tourists look up in awe at the 40 tonne bronze bell donated by King Thayarwaddy. Every morning at dawn, a monks’ procession makes it way to the pagoda to lay fresh offerings of flowers and food and wash the statues with sandalwood-scented water. Special celebrations are held at the time of the full moon, the Buddha’s birthday and the autumn Festival of Lights when over 9,000 candles are lit after dark. It is sheer magic and one almost forgets that in modern times the pagoda has witnessed its share of political rallies and turmoil. Today, as Myanmar’s fledgling democracy finds its feet, it is once again a purely religious site. When the authorities moved the capital to Nappyidaw in 2005, 320km to the north, they graced their brand new city with a replica of Shwedagon. But some say it is 30 cm lower than the original and could never replace the Great Yangon Pagoda, ‘glistening with its gold like a sudden hope in the dark night of the soul.’ (Somerset Maugham)

Cartoon Panel

Cartoon Strip

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Page

Code Word

CODEWORD

Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. As you find the letters enter them in the box below.

4 25

22 9

22 15

General Xword

11 2

17 9

15 22

3 10

25 16

23 1

17 1

6 22 18

22 6

10 21

25 19

9 26

22 20

9 4

25 24

General Knowledge Crossword Across 1. Latticework used to support climbing plants (7) 5. Russian city on the Vyatka River (5) 8. Percussion instruments that are shaken (7) 9. Occasions for eating food (5) 10. German painter and engraver of the Renaissance (1471â&#x20AC;&#x201C;1528) (5) 11. Accumulation deposited by a glacier (7) 12. Construction built by a spider (6) 14. Scottish dish (6) 17. Restrain with fetters (7) 19. Water-filled ditches surrounding castles (5)

22. Mete out (5) 23. The working together of two things to produce an effect greater than the sum of their individual effects (7) 24. Mineral used as an abrasive (5) 25. Family appellation (7) Down 1. Very shy (5) 2. Departure from what is ethically acceptable (5) 3. City and lake in central Switzerland (7) 4. Seed often used on bread rolls (6) 5. Native or inhabitant of Cambodia (5) 6. Town on the River Thames in Berkshire (7)

Only f or sub scriber paying s for tw o or more p ostcod es exclus ivity 7. Late afternoon or evening worship service (7) 12. Cataract (7) 13. Kind of raised type in relief for the blind (7) 15. Hospital social

worker (7) 16. Population count (6) 18. Combined stakes of the betters (5) 20. Largest artery of the body (5) 21. Panache (5)

Cryptic Xword

Cryptic Crossword 1

10 11

13 14

16 17 20

Across 1 Metal drawer, perhaps (6) 4 Shoe undone on CI’s mac (8) 9 Ruler cutting dried fruit (6) 10 Bed given lever, but not right bedspread (8) 12 Mostly lovable sort – a first! (5,3) 13 Stone guys put behind a flower, partly (6) 15 Sheep never behind a jug (4) 16 Pit worker really a goddess (7) 20 Bird box leading to quarrel (7) 21 Liberated leader back in charge (4) 25 Light brown worn by odd US president (6) 26 Victory with dart, for example, in Canada (8) 28 Broken up elf embracing great calm (8) 29 Rick’s drunk his first brandy (6) 30 Foreign type Inga corrected (8) 31 Swiped bags around Enfield (6)

Down 1 Wrong team’s ink order (8) 2 A young lady ran and ran! (8) 3 A girl a boy avoids (6) 5 Instrument back in Borneo? Bother! (4) 6 Artistic vet Erica sent out (8) 7 Solitary man without a grave (6) 8 Taking heed that it’s not mixed with gin (6) 11 A city is large, surprisingly (7) 14 Down payment is back in a storehouse (7) 17 Flipped father – father possibly visible (8) 18 Suggestion for unusual opals (8) 19 Stretch of glen developed, therefore (8) 22 Basic sort of pleats (6) 23 Sweet American (backward man) (6) 24 Silent characters making sign up (6) 27 Country copper meeting graduate (4)

Solution Across: 1 Magnet, 4 Moccasin, 9 Sultan, 10 Coverlet, 12 Above all, 13 Stamen, 15 Ewer, 16 Minerva,

Pictograms

Hidato Starting at 1 and finishing at 49, track your way from one square to another, either horizontally, vertically or diagonally, placing consecutive numbers into the empty squares as you go. Some numbers are already given.

5 33 17 49

27 23

INCISORS KANINES MOLARS

19 20

15/05/2017 Mini Cryptic Crossword

Hidato.indd 1

4 words BPULSEIANSEUSRSE

10:21:42

Across 1. Feds put in a group part (7) 7. One flower developed (5) 8. Spectacles glum leader misses (7) 9. Apologetic type almost evacuated Rugby! (5) 11. Hosiery hits hard (5) 12. Quick cheese and fruit starter (5) 14. Cleric not following tailless cat (5) 16. Prim Leo sent around to beg (7) 18. A man occupying a country (5) 19. Sample consumed with Will (7) Down 1. Heroic narratives, either way (5) 2. Endless target in India (3) 3. Two points state written composition (5) 4. Jobs Thomas initially requests (5) 5. Small quantity of broth – a rip-off! (7) 6. Poet as yet not in order (5) 10. Time ran out for clothing (7) 12. A passenger vehicle near a hat (5)

2 words

Mini Cryptic Xword

GEORGE 12/07/1974

2 1

3 words

Hidato & Pictogram

13. Fathead isn’t 15. Relative on the commonly weak (5) Riviera, we hear (5) 14. Police officer less 17. Eggs finished, by the content gets by (5) sound of it (3)

Logos 1. The logo of the film studio Dreamworks features a boy sitting on a crescent moon doing what activity? 2. Best known for its sportswear, which Italian clothing company has a logo that features the silhouettes of a man and woman sitting back to back against each other? 3. Featuring on its logo, in what year was the company Guinness founded? 4. A new lion logo for what was unveiled in February 2016, with many people saying that it resembled Mufasa from The Lion King? 5. What type of animal is used as the logo of Bacardi? 6. The logo for the beer brand McEwan’s was based on which famous painting by Frans Hals? 7. How many dots in total feature on the domino that is used for the logo of Domino’s Pizza? 8. In 2011, Iran threatened to boycott the 2012 London Olympics, saying the logo was racist as it spelt out a biblical name used to refer to the city of Jerusalem. What is this name? 9. Which famous company has a logo featuring a twin-tailed siren, and caused controversy in 2006 when briefly reintroducing the original version of the logo where the siren’s breasts were visible? 10. Which famous person from history was depicted sitting under an apple tree on the very first logo of the company Apple?

also available as a quarte r page

The Big Read

Quiz 1

Quiz 2

In 2003, the BBC carried out a survey called the Big Read to find the nation’s 200 best-loved novels. For each of the 20 authors below, can you name the one and only novel they had in this list?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Harper Lee Evelyn Waugh John Wyndham William Makepeace Thackeray J.D. Salinger Charlotte Brontë Jerome K. Jerome Irvine Welsh Ernest Hemingway Eric Carle

Only f or sub scriber paying s for tw o or more p ostcod es exclus ivity

Simple Xword

QUICK CROSSWORD

Across

7 Improve (6) 8 Picked (6) 9 Assists (4) 10 Obstinate (8) 11 Happier (7) 13 Joint (5) 15 Higher than (5)

13 14

19 20

17 Searched (7) 20 Keeps you dry (8)

21 Musical instrument (4) 22 Alcove (6) 23 Star sign (6) Down 1 Long for (6) 2 Enemies (4)

Spot the Difference

3 Broken (7)

14 Organise (7)

4 Clean thoroughly (5)

16 Abundant (6)

5 Merges (8)

18 Consuming (6)

6 Fuel (6)

19 Nearby (5)

12 Went backward (8)

21 Light (4)

Sudoku Easy

Sudoku Hard

Trial

AT C R E N You have two minutes to find all the words of three or more letters that can be made from the letters above. Plurals are allowed, proper nouns are not. The 6 letter word will always be just a normal everyday word.

3 letters: 20 4 letters: 18 5 letters: 8 6 letters: 4

Word Ladder

3 Letters ACE ACT ANT ARC ARE ART ATE CAN CAR CAT EAR EAT ERA

NET RAN RAT TAN TAR TEA TEN 4 Letters ACNE ACRE ANTI KANE KANT CARE

Word Ladder

Change one letter at a time (but not the position of any letter) to make a new word - and move from the word at the top of the ladder to the word at the bottom, using the exact number of rungs provided.

C O A L

Here is one possible solution (others may exist) COAL cool tool toll tell fell full

CART CENT EARN NEAR NEAT RACE RANT RATE RENT TARE TEAR TURN 5 Letters CARET

FUEL

F U E L

CATER CRAN CRAT ENAC NACR REAC TRAC 6 Lette CANT NECT RECA TRAN

Sailing Anchor Beam Below Boom Bridge Clipper Crossjack Deck Gaff Gunwale Helm Hull Keel Ketch Mast Mizzen Navigation Porthole Prow

Word Search

Rigging Rudder Sailor Sails Seafarer Spars Spinnaker Stern Tack Yacht

Find the names of words associated with sailing in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase

WORDWHEEL

Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.

Word Wheel

TARGET Excellent: 50 or more words Good: 40 words Fair: 35 words

E I

D F

E B S

Answer: DISBELIEF

L I 41