Alconbury August 2021

VILLAGER The

Issue 111 - August 2021

and Town

Life

LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS

Inside this issue

Camping with kids

Working in the

Garden Win £25

in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People Every Month in Alconbury, Grafham, Kimbolton, The Stukeleys ur and all surrounding areas Yo EE R py

F co

2

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Inside this issue...

Liquid Gold................................................................ 26 Wood Green: Pet Owners’ First Port of Call................. 29 Working in the Garden.............................................. 30 Discover the History of the Land Rover Discovery...... 32 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe.................................... 34 Puzzle Page............................................................... 36 We can all make a difference..................................... 39 Fun Quiz.................................................................... 39 1922 Traffic Census.................................................... 40 Villager Prize Crossword............................................ 42 The OliveOlive Mediterranean Cookbook................... 45 Useful Numbers........................................................ 47

Forest Holidays

4

A Long Hot Summer

24

Forest Holidays in North England and Scotland........... 4 Wines from Germany: Kloster Eberbach...................... 8 Camping with Kids.................................................... 10 Community Car Scheme............................................ 12 In the Pink................................................................. 14 Dressing your Shape and Style.................................. 17 EAAA is now 24/7...................................................... 18 Make the Switch....................................................... 23 A Long Hot Summer.................................................. 24

Get your business off to a flying start this year

Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £30.00 +VAT per month Editorial - Peter Ibbett, Trevor Langley, Kate Duggan, Katherine Sorrell, Jennie Billings, EAAA, Caroline Knight, Wood Green and Nick Coffer

Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel: 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com Front Cover Photography - rosstek Design and Artwork Design 9 • Tel: 07762 969460

Publishers Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 261122 Email: nigel@villagermag.com www.villagermag.com

Disclaimer - All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however, Villager Publications Ltd can not take any responsibility for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the editorial. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher.

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

3

Staycation

Glen Affric, Inverness, Scotland

Forests holidays in north

England and Scotland From the starry skies of Galloway Forest Park to the wildlife-rich woodland of Northumberland’s Kielder Forest, there’s no denying that some of our country’s most magical forests can be found in northern England and Scotland.

Forests are a vital part of our planet’s ecosystem, even giving us the oxygen we breathe. So it’s not surprising that they’re places we head to when we’re craving a sense of calm – somewhere to escape to and catch our breath.

There’s no better place to lose yourself in nature for a little while. Whether you’re into hiking, cycling, kayaking, or just drinking in the scenery, the forests in northern England and Scotland have it all. With so many to choose from, we’ve put together three of our favourites, perfect for your next day trip or staycation.

Galloway Forest, Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland Where better to start than with the UK’s largest forest? At 297 square miles, Scotland’s Galloway Forest is a sprawling playground of dramatic ancient woodland, magnificent scenery and an astonishing range of local wildlife. Designated a Forest Park in 1947, it’s fondly referred to by the locals as ‘the Highlands of the Lowlands’.

Many of its 800,000 yearly visitors are drawn to

4

its remoteness. Light pollution is so low here that it’s been recognised as a Dark Sky Park – meaning that its skies are on par with those hanging above Arizona’s Grand Canyon. In short, it’s perfect for stargazing.

After a night camping out under the stars, it’s time to explore. The park’s three visitor centres are good places to start. Kirroughtree is your gateway to more active adventures, including the award-winning 7stanes mountain bike trails. If wildlife spotting is more your scene, look out for roe deer and rare red squirrels. Or why not visit the park’s Red Deer Range to get close to some of Galloway’s resident deer?

Galloway isn’t just woodland either; there are around 250 lochs to discover too. No doubt you’ll stumble upon a few while you’re exploring the park’s scenic walking and cycling trails.

Kielder Forest, Northumberland, England When it comes to size, Northumberland’s Kielder Forest is also a front runner. Spanning 235 square miles, it’s the largest forest in England – and the second largest in the UK as a whole.

If that wasn’t enough, Kielder is also home to the biggest man-made lake in Northern Europe, making it a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. Hire a pleasure boat, go fishing, or try your hand at

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

R FO Y R s!

NT 16 E R E EE FR UND

VINTAGE WEEKEND SATURDAY 4 & SUNDAY 5 SEPTEMBER 2021

Enjoy our first Heritage Steam event at the Shuttleworth Collection immersed in the atmosphere from a bygone age!

The weekend will encompass a full day of vintage steam and working vehicles and entertainment on both days, accompanied by a Flying Display at our annual Vintage Air Show on the Sunday.

Enjoy working demonstrations, steam engines, agricultural exhibits including the Shuttleworth Collection’s Clayton & Shuttleworth exhibits, vintage vehicle parades, and try & buy traditional crafts.

Saturday just £15! Kids go free! See website for Air Show prices

ALL RIDES FREE!

WWW.SHUTTLEWORTH.ORG/VINTAGEWEEKEND Shuttleworth, Old Warden, Bedfordshire, SG18 9EP | 01767 627933

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

5

water skiing or sailing. With miles of beautiful trails, including forest walks for all the family and adrenalineboosting mountain bike tracks, Kielder is perfect for anyone looking to have their own mini adventure.

The forest is a haven for wildlife too, with around 50% of England’s native red squirrels calling it home. If you’re quiet, you could also spot rare wildlife including ospreys, pipistrelle bats, roe deer, salmon otters and water voles.

Just like Galloway, Kielder is also famous for its dark skies. The forest’s remote location in Northumberland means it’s virtually unaffected by light pollution, making it a stargazer’s idea of heaven. Don’t miss a trip to Kielder Observatory, where you can book ahead to attend a number of fascinating astronomical events.

Glen Affric, Inverness, Scotland A medley of native woods, glittering lochs, snow-capped mountains and dramatic moorland, Scotland’s Glen Affric could easily have been plucked straight out of Canada.

With over 30 miles of ancient pinewoods, the forest is home to one of the largest ancient Caledonian pine woods in Scotland. In fact, the woodland is so treasured, it’s become part of the Scottish government’s regeneration project, with a target of 25% forest cover to reach by 2050.

Wander amongst the pine trees to the sound of woodland birds, looking out for ospreys, otters and

Galloway Forest, Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland

red deer stags. Or tackle some of Affric’s challenging hiking trails, punctuated with thundering waterfalls and jagged canyons. This is Scotland at its most spectacular; you won’t be able to put your camera away.

Dog Falls are a must-see, and provide a good starting point for several walking trails. Climb the gradual ascent to the spectacular viewpoint overlooking Loch Beinn a’ Mheadhoin or picnic beneath the pine trees by Coire Loch.

What’s great about Glen Affric is that it’s also a mere hour’s drive from the famous Loch Ness. Surely it would be a crime not to tick off both in one trip?

Kielder Forest, Northumberland, England

6

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

7

Food & Drink

Wines from Germany: Kloster Eberbach

Weingut Kloster Eberbach is a multi award-winning wine producer, located in the Rheingau district and has global recognition, for their high-quality wine productions. Very attractively furnished, comfortable accommodations, are also offered, plus regular, on-site events. The monastery at Eberbach dates from 1136 and was founded by Cistercian monks. The monks had a wine cellar (Cabinetkeller) where they kept their very best wines. Weingut Kloster Eberbach produces exceptional white and red wines and has an excellent range.

Riesling wines are aromatic and grace countless dining tables often, pairing with fish, seafood and white meats superbly, as well as being enjoyed on their own regularly, too. Crescentia Premium Wines are produced utilising grapes from the very best vineyards. Kloster Eberbach Crescentia Steinberger Riesling trocken (12.0% vol) and Kloster Eberbach Crescentia Rauenthaler Baiken Riesling trocken (12.0% vol) are both extremely popular, dry white wines. The respective bouquets have the typical riesling aroma of apples and other fruits, being displayed for the nasal pleasures. The anticipation and further enjoyments are continued, for the mouthfeel and palate.

The Kloster Eberbach range of wines also has Cabinetkeller productions. Highly praised and very much appreciated for their fine qualities, this section includes Kloster Eberbach Cabinetkeller Berg Roseneck Riesling feinherb (11.5 vol). Again, superb quality prevails and this production is regularly found to be on ‘top’ dining tables. Certainly, a popular selection, for many. Kloster Eberbach Cabinetkeller Steinberg Riesling (13% vol) is a further choice, favoured by numerous lovers of white wines. The bouquet can, again, be classed as elegant, with citrus fruits enticing to the following delights. Welcoming and expressive, the sensations of fruits continue throughout, with an excellent, lengthy palate.

Other Kloster Eberbach Cabinetkeller productions include Berg Schlossberg Spätburgunder trocken (13.5% vol). This splendid, very impressive dry red wine has a ‘wealth’ of dark fruits and pairs with red meat dishes, wonderfully.

If visiting the Eberbach area there are wine tours of the estate available and tastings. The Kloster Eberbach wines can be ordered easily online, also. The Eberbach Monastery regularly has the most memorable weddings, with personal requirements, including banquets and receptions, being meticulously planned.

Please visit the website for all details. www.kloster-eberbach.de joy!

As always, En

8

ey Trevor Langl Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

STRUGGLING TO USE YOUR BATHROOM?

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN FOR WALK INS

If using your bathroom has become a chore or you are worried about your safety, BMAS Hitchin can help. We are experts in bathing mobility and will make your bathroom safe and comfortable so you can enjoy independent bathing and showering in your own home.

Choose BMAS Hitchin:

� � �

26 years’ expertise

�

Free bathroom design & full quotation

�

Traditional customer service (no call centres)

�

Finance options available

Full design and installation High-quality products for safety & comfort

“TRUSTWORTHY AND RELIABLE. JUST WHAT WE WERE LOOKING FOR!”

Showroom Open Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm 01462 889 097 bathingmobility.co.uk

Bathing Mobility Advisory Service, 67 Hermitage Road, Hitchin SG5 1DB

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

9

Parenting

Camping with kids

Top tips to making sleeping under the stars a whole lot more enjoyable…

By Kate Duggan Fly the flag - If, like me, you have the navigation skills of Nemo’s best friend Dory, you may find yourself getting lost occasionally. A telescopic flag pole and windsock is a useful marker, particularly if you’re planning to give the kids a bit more freedom.

To wee or not to wee - No one enjoys a 3am trek to the loo, so a portable toilet is your friend. A potty is fine for younger children, but you’ll need something a bit more substantial for older kids (and adults). If you have room, a bucket style loo is ideal. Otherwise, try a collapsible toilet. We recently bought the Bivvy Loo, which folds down small, supports up to 23 stone and comes with biodegradable bags and powder to transform liquid to gel.

Let there be light - You’ll need headtorches to find your way around after dark. A rechargeable camping lantern is also useful for evenings (and those 3am toilet breaks). And a string of solar fairy lights around your door will help you to identify your tent at night.

(They also look rather pretty.)

A decent night’s sleep - If you’re only planning to camp occasionally, air beds are usually fine. However, they do tend to deflate somewhat overnight and don’t exactly have the longest lifespan. While camping beds are more expensive, they can work out far better value in the long run. And you’re likely to get a much better night’s sleep.

Dress for the occasion - Even the hottest British summer’s day can turn cool at night. Close-fitting PJs (or leggings and a T-shirt) will help to keep the warmth in.

10

Make sure you pack plenty of layers. You’ll appreciate a fleecy jumper when you’re huddled up sheltering from the rain. Speaking of rain, it can be difficult to get dry in a tent, so waterproofs are a good idea.

Eat, drink and be merry - A camping stove is essential for anything longer than a weekend break, even if you’re planning to mainly barbecue or eat out.

Stick to easy-to-cook meals, from breakfast fry-ups to fajitas. Don’t have an electric hook up? A cool box with ice blocks makes a useful fridge. You’ll need to refreeze the blocks each day, which you can usually do in the site shop.

My kids love ‘camping cereal’ (aka mini variety packs).

Pour the milk directly into the cereal bag. No bowl = less washing up.

Ideally, start collecting condiment sachets a few weeks before your holiday, so you have plenty of ketchup, mayonnaise, vinegar etc. to see you through.

And what camping trip would be complete without toasting marshmallows?

Other essentials worth packing include: • Washing line – string it between your tent and a tree to dry swimming costumes on • Baby wipes – handy no matter how old the kids are • Dustpan and brush • Doormat • First aid kit • Extra-thick thermal socks (Heat Holders are ideal) • Gaffer tape for tackling leaks • Travel games, a ball and a frisbee

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

SEPTEMBER

2 0 2N1 SIGN UP NOW!

Singing Acting Dancing Ballet, Tap, Musical Theatre and more All ages & abilities welcome Free parking and Parent Lounge FREE trial sessions info@stageworksstudio.co.uk 01480 223331 www.stageworksstudio.co.uk

Stageworks Sept advert_quarter_v1.0.indd 1

06/07/2021 13:5

Please call

0800 052 0078

Foster For Us

• Access to 24/7 support and training • Bespoke training and development

• Receive generous pa y and benefits

Text FOSTERING to 60777 www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/fostering www.peterborough.gov.uk/fostering

fostering@cambridgeshire.gov.uk FosteringandAdoption@Peterborough.gov.uk

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

11

Local News

Community Car Scheme ‘Supporting Huntingdonshire Communities through volunteering’

Huntingdonshire Volunteer Centre continues to run throughout the pandemic, thanks to our wonderful team of volunteer drivers and administrators.

We endeavour to offer more than a Taxi Service, providing a reliable and friendly scheme. Our volunteers go out of their way to help our clients feel comfortable, right from booking the journey, to the drive itself. We also have Covid secure precautions in place to help our clients and volunteers feel safe. The car scheme works by matching passengers with volunteer drivers who use their own cars to take them to hospital appointments, shopping and various destinations. Please note, that due to the pandemic medical journeys will be acted upon first. Passengers pay the drivers 40p a mile based on the driver’s mileage, to cover the driver’s expenses, plus a £1 booking fee to cover administration costs.

Here is what a client said about a scheme: “The Car Scheme is brilliant, a life saver and I feel safer than travelling in ambulances or taxis. The drivers are wonderful” Mrs Geraldine Smith – St Neots We have volunteer centres based in St Neots ( 01480 476047) Huntingdon (01480 414766) St Ives and Ramsay (01480 301462) please phone to make a booking or for more information. We are currently looking for volunteer drivers, so if you’re patient, reliable, have a ‘full drivers license’ and want to make a difference in the community please contact us for a chat. www.huntsvc.org.uk

12

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

13

Home Products

In the Pink

By Katherine Sorrell

This bath has embraced bold colour in the form of a pretty pink. There are 193 other colours available.

River BacktoWall bath in custom colour ‘Pink Blush’, £2,290, Waters Baths of Ashbourne.

Bright and breezy, fun and summery, bubblegum pink will add a ‘pop’ of colour to any home, both indoors and outside.

This garden furniture set is made from sturdy steel frames and PE pink rattan. Three-piece String bistro set, £149.99, Sue Ryder.

Classic style meets modern colour in this comfortable armchair. Oakham pink velvet chair, £1,200, Jo&Co Home.

14

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Using accents of bright pink

Polish craftsmen hand-finish these glass pendant lamps so that each has a unique colour and shape.

Pastels 1 light globe pendant, £235.99, Wayfair.

This cotton blanket is woven in a herringbone style and edged with pom poms. Sass and Belle pink herringbone blanket throw, £23, The Joy Edit.

• There’s no denying that vivid pink has vigour, vim and vivacity. It’s a great colour to introduce in small doses, in almost any room of the house, or even in the garden.

With a lovely feel of Oriental style, this art print is available to buy unframed in A4, A3 and A2 sizes, or as part of a set of three prints. Dark Pink Ginkgo Leaves botanical art print, from £22, Claude & Leighton.

A traditional portrait with an ironic modern twist, this art print has a touch of mischief.

Bubblegum Portrait 1, £261 (framed), Mineheart.

Made from linen, pompoms and ‘60s-style typography, this cushion adds a dash of fun and colour. ‘Love’ cushion, £39.50, Red Candy.

Add a touch of paradise with this tropical wallpaper.

Under The Banana Tree wallpaper in hot pink, £38, Lust Home.

STOCKISTS

Jo&Co: Home 01208 895 058; joandcohome.com

Lust Home: 01429 803 930; lusthome.com

Red Candy 0121 224 7728; redcandy.co.uk Waters Baths of Ashbourne: 01332 824 166; watersbaths.co.uk

• True bubblegum pink is quite artificial, but if you prefer something softer and more natural, opt for rose-pink tones.

What colours to team it with?

Touches of fuchsia, orange or turquoise would be bold and full of impact, while black is sophisticated and dramatic. For a more subtle effect, try dove grey, lilac or soft blue.

• Covering a single wall with pink paint or wallpaper can lift the spirits. Try a wall of your living room, hallway or even home office. In the bedroom, an understated pink will be restful and romantic.

• Bringing in a single item of furniture, rug, light fitting, throw, cushion or framed art work in your chosen shade of pink can offer an instant refresh to a room. The tiniest of additions can cost very little – perhaps adding a pompom trim to a plain cushion, painting a picture frame or placing a small vase or ornament on a shelf. You may then decide that a whole burst of bubblegum is the way to go.

Claude & Leighton: 0118 979 3989; claudeandleighton.com The Joy Edit: thejoyedit.co.uk Mineheart 01487 831 034; mineheart.com Sue Ryder: 07768 354 044; sueryder.org/shop Wayfair: 0800 756 4583; wayfair.co.uk

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

15

Health & Wellbeing Salon FOR ALL YOUR SKIN CARE NEEDS

Red Vein • Skin Tags • Moles Hair Removal Facials • Massage • Nails

To make an appointment please call

01480 457642 Elaine’s of Brampton Brampton Park Golf Club Buckden Road, Brampton Huntingdon PE28 4NF

www.elainesofbrampton.co.uk

16

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

House of Colour

Dressing your Shape and Style •

•

•

• Hourglass figures look best when they show off their waist. Those curves look better in pieces that follow their waist and add in their natural curve. There is often a desire to hide shape by wearing straighter clothes that cover up but this doesn’t flatter curves.

• Use fabrics that have some weight, ie that aren’t too flimsy and clingy but naturally drape across the figure are the most flattering. Know your style to understand the best fabrics that are going to work for your shape and look.

• Wearing great colours that suit your complexion is flattering. The urban myth that black is slimming is only going to work on those for whom black is actually a good colour. On the wrong person it dominates and draws attention.

Primary red suits us all…

• If you suit classic, dramatic, sporty or natural clothing, then choose items to fill your capsule wardrobe along those lines. For example, tailoring continues to gain momentum offering the ultimate smart casual look particularly for classic and gamine style personalities. Natural style personalities should choose relaxed skirts

•

•

with movement. Structured or asymmetric outfits can add edginess for the dramatics amongst us.

Professional bra fitting is a must. Clothes look much better when our underwear is giving us the right support, and is invisible. It is a worthwhile investment if you are in doubt.

Wear clothes that fit you – I know this sounds obvious but we can sometimes get it wrong.

Check in with someone you trust or your stylist to understand if your clothes fit you properly.

Baggy and poorly fitting clothes are never doing us a favour. It can be tempting to buy clothes is a different size for a ‘future you’. This only adds pressure to be something else and sits in your wardrobe reminding you.

When shopping always try on. Now that we can try clothes on again in shops take advantage of it. Try on a few things you wouldn’t always pick up and try a few brands you haven’t to understand what might suit you.

Dressing for your shape is all in the details. We all suit different hemlines, necklines, trouser lengths, lapels and sleeves, not to mention of course colours, fabrics, structure, patterns and details.

Your best style is the one that looks right on you regardless of size. Knowing your proportions (not size!) means you can understand how to flatter your shape. Clothes are made in a standard metric while our bodies are all going to differ but the secret is to understand how they differ so we can understand which areas to emphasise. If you aren’t sure contact your nearest stylist for advice.

Article by Jennie Billings House of Colour House of Colour has a network of stylists to help you update your look – find your nearest at houseofcolour.co.uk/find-astylist

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

17

Local News

East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) is now 24/7 by air and by road, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year Thanks to incredible community support, EAAA is now able to provide the same level of service, day and night, by air and by road, to be there for more people in need.

A long-term ambition of the charity’s, the five-anda-half-hour gap in the region where there has been no helicopter emergency medical service cover has now been closed; making EAAA the first air ambulance in the East of England to fly 24 hours day.

This is the result of four years of careful planning, fundraising (to raise an extra million pounds a year to provide a 24/7 operation) and gradual steps towards providing round-the-clock care. The doctor and critical care paramedic teams became 24/7 by car in March 2020 and on 30 June this year EAAA started flying throughout the night for the very first time.

Matthew Jones, the recently appointed CEO of EAAA, said: “This is something that we have been

18

working passionately towards for several years; to provide critical care to someone in a life-threatening or life-changing situation no matter what the time of day or night. However, we wouldn’t have been able to achieve any of this if it wasn’t for the incredible generosity of people throughout the region who have helped EAAA grow into the amazing lifeline that it is now. We look forward to being able to fly to patients in the early hours of the morning, where our teams have previously only been available by rapid response vehicle.”

Take on the Trek 24 challenge to support this 24/7 service To celebrate this enormous milestone for the charity, EAAA is organising a 24-mile or 24-kiliometre walking challenge in Bedfordshire and there is still plenty of time to get signed up and take part!

Trek 24 The Chilterns Challenge takes place on Saturday 4 September and offers two circular routes through the stunning Chiltern hills and surrounding countryside, starting and finishing at Hexton Manor.

After successfully trialling this type of trek event in Norfolk in 2019, EAAA is excited to bring Trek 24 to Bedfordshire for the very first time and needs your help to make it a success, either through helping to spread the word, taking part or volunteering on the day! All funds raised through the event will help to fund this amazing 24/7 life-saving service.

Sign up now at: www.trek-24.co.uk and to save £10 on your ticket price, use code VILLAGER10.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

19

20

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

21

VISIT US AND CL AIM YOUR £20 M&S GIFT * CARD

It’s so much more than a retirement apartment It’s time to focus on enjoying your retirement to the fullest with no worries. A Churchill retirement apartment means safety and security with like-minded neighbours and no worries about building and garden maintenance. You’ll join an active community and be fully independent, but with friendship and support on hand should you need it.

Join many Owners who have already made the move and start making memories in your brand new apartment sooner than you might think.

HUNTINGDON Moorhouse Lodge, Edison Bell Way PE29 3FD

01480 809172

churchillretirement.co.uk/moorhouse-lodge *T&C’s apply. Visit our website to find out more.

O U R H E R ITAG E • YO U R F U T U R E B U I LT O N I NTEG R IT Y A N D TR U S T

At Oakleigh Residential Home we take great pride in maintaining the highest standards of care for our residents. Our home is set out in large gardens with easy access, 24 bright and comfortable, single-occupancy rooms and in-house cooks who create appetising and varied menu’s.

01480 890248 stonnell.oakleigh@outlook.com 22 North Road, Alconbury Weston, Huntingdon, PE28 4JR.

We provide 24 hour care and can accommodate clients who require dementia care.

www.oakleighresidentailhome.co.uk ESTABLISHED AND TRUSTED SINCE 1988

22Oakleigh Residential half page.indd

1

05/12/2016 11:03 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Finance

Make the Switch

We’re increasingly comfortable with switching insurers or energy suppliers to get the best deal, yet many of us stick with the same bank for decades.

Switching isn’t as tricky as it used to be and it can be well worth your time.

Nearly all major banks are part of a programme called Current Account Switch Service, launched in 2013, that guarantees a simple switch. It works in a similar way to switching energy suppliers but is much smoother and quicker.

To use it you simply open a new account, tell your new bank that you want to use the service, sign a couple of forms, and choose the date you want to switch. This must be at least seven days after you open the new account and can’t be a weekend or bank holiday.

The new bank will switch over your regular payments, standing orders and direct debits automatically from that date. Any manual payments made to your old account are automatically ‘redirected’ to the new one for at least three years, and your new bank will tell the sender you’ve moved.

The only thing you need to change manually is any continuous payment authorities for subscriptions where you’ve given a seller your card number, rather than your account number and sort codes. Credit cards aren’t affected by a bank account switch and any direct debit you have to pay the minimum or full amount each month will transfer over.

Glitches with the transfer are rare, but the Current Account Switch Guarantee means that your new bank will refund any charges or interest caused by problems with the switch.

So why bother switching anyway? You could get higher interest rates on your balance, lower overdraft fees and interest, or better offers such as discounts on some purchases. Check whether it’s a ‘permanent’ rate or a time-limited introductory offer.

Often the main reason to switch is a cash bonus, with some banks offering £100 or more. Check for any conditions though: you may have to pay in a certain amount to qualify. Amounts vary, but usually the idea is to make sure you’re using it as your main bank account.

Remember that when you apply for an account, the bank will usually run a credit check. This is only likely to be a problem if you have a very poor credit history, and even then some banks will offer an account with a low overdraft or no overdraft at all.

The credit check itself will appear on your record but this is only likely to raise eyebrows if you have a lot of checks in a short period. It may be safer to hold off switching accounts just before a big loan or mortgage application.

One big myth is that you can’t switch accounts if you are in your overdraft. This isn’t the case, as the new bank can transfer over a negative balance when you switch, though it’ll need to be inside any limit on the new account.

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

23

Special Report

A Long Hot Summer

Soothe aching limbs or just relax with family or friends in your very own hot tub Hot tubs are brilliant things. They’re great for massages, hydrotherapy and relaxation; they can help ease aches and pains after exercise or from conditions such as arthritis; they’re fantastic stress busters and sleep helpers; and big ones are brilliant for socialising with friends and family.

How much do they cost?

The cheapest hot tubs are inflatable ones, running from around £300 to £1,500. Inflatables are usually but not always circular and they have a padded base and a fairly basic heating and inflation system.

Like hard-shell hot tubs you’ll need a solid, level place to put them. Inflatables are a great option for occasional use but they’re not designed to be used constantly or left outside all year round.

Hard-shell tubs cost more but are much tougher and generally bigger too. Prices start at around

24

£3,000 and go up depending on the materials you prefer and the features you want: some have more entertainment technology in them than the average house. Hard-shell tubs are usually insulated, making them more energy efficient, and you’ll generally get a better selection of jets, lights and other features. Hard-shell tubs are permanent structures designed to sit outside all year long and aren’t easily moved or stored.

Should you rent or buy?

This question is rather like asking whether you should rent or buy a car: it depends on how often you’ll use it. Renting means you’re only paying for the time you’ll actually be using the hot tub, so if you only think you’ll need it for a few weeks in the summer that’s obviously much cheaper than buying the hot tub outright. Many hire places

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

will hire you a hot tub for periods as short as a weekend. But longer term hire starts getting expensive. For example, a six-seater hot tub that’s £4,200 to buy may be around £900 a month to hire. You’ll find many rental firms offer repeat customer discounts but if you and your family or friends are water babies, buying is often the more cost-effective option.

You’ll find that some retailers offer hire before you buy schemes, particularly for more expensive models. It’s effectively a hot tub test drive, enabling you and your family to put a particular tub through its paces before you commit to buy.

How do I make a hot tub safe for kids?

Hot tubs are perfectly safe for kids over 5 – experts strongly advise against letting under-5s use hot tubs, even for a short time – but there are a few things to remember. First of all, don’t leave young children without adult supervision, even for a moment, and if any children have long hair tie it back or up so it can’t get caught by the filter system. Secondly, turn the temperature down and don’t let them stay in too long: little bodies can’t tolerate hot water as well or for as long as grownups, so don’t go beyond 35ºC and 15 minutes at a time. And thirdly, make sure the cover is secure when the hot tub isn’t in use, so that younger children can’t open it when you’re not around.

The single most important thing you can do for safety is to ensure that you use the correct amount of chlorine and clean it regularly in accordance with the manufacturer’s or supplier’s instructions.

What maintenance is involved?

Generally speaking, permanent hot tubs with automatic filtration need very little maintenance; if the filtration isn’t automatic you should run it a couple of times a day to keep the water circulating. If it’s covered you should open the cover daily to let gases escape, and you’ll want to use pH strips weekly to ensure the water isn’t getting too acidic or alkaline. If your hot tub is in regular use you should rinse the filter(s) weekly and clean them monthly with a hot tub filter solution, and the water should be fully drained and the lines flushed several times a year. None of these things are particularly time-consuming but it is important that you do them to keep bacteria at bay.

I’m sold. What do I do now?

To find out what’s available in your area, Hot Tub Chooser (www.hottubchooser.co.uk) is a comparison site specifically for hot tubs. Tell it what you’re looking for and it’ll show the available options from retailers near you.

Miami Spas Excalibur 7 Seater Hot Tub, £6,999 from miamispas.co.uk

Lay-Z-Spa Vegas inflatable hot tub. £830 from amazon.co.uk

Cambridge 6-person 34 jet hot tub, £5,995 from therange.co.uk

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

25

Gardening

Liquid Gold

Water conservation and management in the garden Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk As you swivel the magic turnkey that releases a gushing stream of clean and sparkling water into your can, pause for a moment. Marvel at the luck of the draw that finds us living in a part of the world where water is available for us to use and to misuse. The water that you pour into summer hanging baskets and sprinkle liberally on your beds and borders was once excreted by huge reptiles. Your café latte contains dinosaur pee.

Indeed, water on Planet Earth has been here for almost five billion years and the total amount is just about the same as ever. It represents the ultimate success story in terms of recycling. So, what’s the problem?

Portability is the problem. Gardeners will be familiar with the weight of a big can of water – bringing in water where it’s needed isn’t always easy. And when crops fail in Africa, knowing there’s ample water in the world for everyone is no help.

Climate change is causing a warmer atmosphere. We either have too much water or too little; Goldilocks would rarely judge things to be ‘just right’. What we all need to do is our bit, so what ‘bit’ is best in a garden, and how can gardeners help?

• Creating space for water within a garden can be life-enhancing. Aim to slow rainfall down – allow some of it to be absorbed in vegetation, then catch and retain some more. Provide a pond that collects water run-off, then enjoy watching the biodiverse-rich habitats that develop. Surround your pond with plants that can cope with flooding and drought. They will help to absorb some of the

26

• •

•

•

•

excess during times-a-plenty, but they won’t die of heat exhaustion during a prolonged dry spell.

Some examples are: Acanthus, Astilbe, Brunnera, Cornus, Eupatorium, Hemerocallis, Iris, Kniphofia, Miscanthus, Persicaria, Rudbeckia, Scabious and many more. Experimentation is all part of your gardening fun.

In places that require hard materials, choose porous options through which the rain can drain.

Divert your downpipes into water butts – these can be surprisingly beautiful if you shop around. It means you capture some of the rainwater for use when you need it the most.

Choose drought-tolerant planting for the driest parts of your garden. These plants will generally have silvery-coloured leaves or foliage that is covered in fine hair, which reduces evaporation.

Once established, they should survive the hottest, driest weather that they are ever likely to get, without needing to be watered. Surround them with gravel, pebbles or boulders as this will conserve what little moisture there is in the soil, plus it looks great too.

Use plants to help your plants. One species can prop up another and provide shade if they are planted close together. Avoid bare patches of soil that will dry out in hot weather.

Consider adding structural reinforcement to your shed roof so that you can add plants. It’s such a great look and captures water as it falls. Sedums and wildflowers will give you butterflies and bees all spring and summer long.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

WO PINEE CAOD RE TRE What we do?

• Tree Felling • Thinning and Pruning • Lopping and Topping • Hedge Trimming • Stump Grinding • Power Washing • Gravelling Why choose Pine Wood?

• Competitive rates • Free estimates and advice • References on request For a FREE estimate with no obligation E: andrewwinters83@outlook.com

T: 01733 322562 or M: 07468 442002

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

27

FOUR SEASONS TREE SERVICES Qualified & Professional Tree and Client Care

PRUNING • LOPPING • FELLING PLANTING • REDUCING & RESHAPING CROWN RAISING • HEDGE TRIMMING THINNING • POLLARDING • STUMP REMOVALS OVERGROWN GARDENS PUT BACK INTO SHAPE FRUIT TREES TREATED • LOG & WOODCHIP SALES FREE ESTIMATES & ADVICE WITH NO OBLIGATION For quality jobs at a competitive price call:

Home: 01353 721665 - Mob: 07771 707921 All work carried out to BS 3998 Standard

A genuine family managed business est. for over 30 years - fully insured

Registered Waste Carrier This company offers a 7 day cooling off period

28

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Local News

Wood Green: Pet owners’ first port of call Have you ever had difficulty with a pet? If so, you’re not alone. Each month, around 500 people contact Wood Green, The Animals Charity seeking guidance about their pet. The charity can help at every step of the way, with a range of services available: Access online advice and workshops - As a pet owner, you’ve probably turned to Google about their diet, health or behaviour. For trusted advice on all aspects of pet care, at any time of day, visit Wood Green’s website to browse informative articles, how-to videos and a regularly updated schedule of workshops.

Speak to a behaviourist for free - Pets are individuals, which means training isn’t one-size-fits-all. The charity’s qualified behaviourists are available to provide free support that’s bespoke to you and your pet, with a proven and force-free approach. With more than 100 years’ combined experience in cat, dog and small pet welfare, the team have seen it all before and will never judge your situation.

Get help covering the cost of pet care - Sometimes, the unexpected happens.

If you’re faced with a veterinary bill you can’t afford or find yourself unable to access the basics for your pet, Wood Green can help by contributing towards veterinary care or supplying essentials like pet food and flea treatment*.

Don’t wait to ask for help - If you are struggling or feel unable to continue caring for a pet, for any reason, the charity will work with you to discuss your options and find the right solution for your pet. Whatever you’re going through, talk to Wood Green first.

Simply call the team on 0300 303 9333 or visit woodgreen.org.uk. * Subject to assessment.

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

29

Interiors

1

By Katherine Sorrell

Working in the garden Setting up an office or studio in the garden may be the ideal solution to pressure on space inside the house. Here we outline some points to consider before you start.

If the future of work is at least partially at home, many of us are going to have to think long and hard about where to set up permanently. Sharing the dining table with the kids or perching on the end of the bed are not going to suffice long term, and although using a spare room as an office can be a great solution, it’s not ideal if you have regular guests to stay, or simply need the storage space. The answer may be a garden building that’s set up as a fully functioning work area – with the bonus of some welcome separation from domestic distractions, but an enjoyably short commute.

The first place to start is with an assessment of how you’ll use the building. While a tiny office with not much more than a desk, chair and shelf will suit some, others may require a lot more floor space, specially designed storage, larger-than-average windows or additional security, for example. Most

30

people will want electricity in their new outdoor office, but will you also need a landline, a sink with running water, a kitchenette or a WC? Next come decisions about quality, size and position. For comfortable working, and to add value to your property, a garden office should be built using good quality materials and to a high standard.

Ideally, its style will complement that of the house and garden, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal.

On a practical level, insulation is vital. Think walls, floors and roof if the space is going to be used beyond the summer months, with double glazing and draught proofing around doors and windows.

Heating is important, too. Many owners of garden studios use electric convention heaters, which can be thermostatically controlled on 24-hour timers.

Electric radiators are great, while wood burners look gorgeous and are super-cosy (but must be professionally installed). Considerations of security are equally important. If anything valuable is going to be stored in the space, glass windows (perhaps even double glazed) are infinitely better than plastic, and a

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

sturdy door with a proper lock will be necessary.

Size-wise, your garden office must be big enough for your needs but not so large that it decreases your outside space to a problematic degree. A very modest example might not be much over 4m square, while the grander types could be 15 to 20m square or even more. In many scenarios, there will be a maximum size possible, and also an obvious location. Where there is a choice of position, however, think about how close you want the room to be to your home, whether the ground is sloping, where there are trees or other potential obstructions, how the sun falls at certain times of the day, and which way you want the windows and door to face. Unless you’re opting for solar or wind power, and have your own bore hole, consider how you will connect utilities. The closer you are to the house, the cheaper it will be to lay pipework and cables, whether for lights and plug sockets or a flushing loo. If using the internet is essential, you may be able to access your usual router wirelessly, or extend its signal relatively easily; if not, you may need to lay a wired connection across the garden. And don’t forget how you’ll get from your back door to the new structure. You might need a new path, because it’s no fun trekking across a squelchy lawn in the middle of a rainy winter’s day.

Whether you’ll need planning permission is another thing to consider. Most garden buildings are deemed ‘permitted development’, but it’s vital to check with your local authority. If the structure is going to be

2

larger than 15 square metres, or used for sleeping in, then it will have to pass building regulations, too.

Bear in mind that, unless you have been granted planning permission to do so, you can’t put an outbuilding in your front garden; nor are you allowed to take up more than 50% of the area of land around the original house.

Design-wise, a garden office could take the form of a glorified shed, a futuristic dome, a traditional shepherd’s hut, an all-singing, all-dancing structure that offers every conceivable luxury – or anything in-between. Whatever you decide, whether it be off the shelf, customised or entirely bespoke, your new garden office is limited only by your imagination and your budget.

1 This high-quality garden building is one of four designs, each customisable in terms of size, style and budget. TGO4 Garden Room, 5m x 4m, £25,245, Green Retreats.

2 Garden office painted in Cuprinol Garden Shades Honey Mango and Black Ash, £19.99 for 2.5l, Brewers.

3 This unique garden room has a removable desk top. Medium summerhouse garden pod, £18,995, Lime Lace.

STOCKISTS Brewers: 01323 576 555; brewers.co.uk

3

Green Retreats: 01296 325 777; greenretreats.co.uk Lime Lace: 01423 900 522; limelace.co.uk

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

31

Motoring

This is the history of the Land Rover Discovery

The Discovery has been a popular and core part of Land Rover’s line-up for decades, incorporating premium touches and a comfortable interior while retaining off-road prowess. Let’s take a look at the history of the Land Rover Discovery.

1989: The Discovery arrives SUVs started gaining in popularity in the late ‘80s, and although Land Rover had offerings in this segment with both the Defender and Range Rover, the firm didn’t have an option between them.

To address this, Land Rover introduced the Discovery at the 1989 Paris Motor Show, and it was offered as a three- or five-door model. It was facelifted in 1994, and a stripped-back Commercial version was also launched.

1998: The three-door version gets dropped After almost a decade, the second-generation Discovery arrived looking more like a mid-life refresh.

However, with a comprehensively new chassis and a five-door-only layout, it was substantially changed.

This new model was more practical, with a more spacious interior. Again, Land Rover introduced a facelifted version later on in 2002.

2004: A whole new look Despite still being square and boxy, the look of the Discovery 3 was a more radical departure from earlier models, and every single component was new.

Incorporating a wheelbase that ran close to three metres long, it offered plenty of space for seven people yet was packed with high-end features. Land Rover also fitted it with its most advanced terrain response system to date, which meant that the Discovery was no less capable off-road.

32

2009: Slicker than ever The fourth Discovery arrived in 2009 but was more of a facelifted ‘3’. The looks remained largely unchanged, though the headlights were more a modern design while the grille was more complex – subtle updates that ensured the Discovery continued to look fresh.

Land Rover made some big changes to the Discovery’s powertrains, while a range of special editions was launched, such as the XXV, released to celebrate the car’s 25th anniversary.

2014: Discovery becomes a sub-brand The start of the 2010s represented a turning point for SUVs. Gaining in popularity, off-roaders and four-wheel-drive were being snapped up quickly, with many manufacturers producing high-riding options.

Land Rover decided to scrap its Freelander, replacing it with the Discovery Sport – a more compact 4x4 that used the Discovery name to capture some of the premium appeal of the larger model.

2016: The fifth generation arrives Land Rover revealed its striking fifth-generation Discovery at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, unveiling a car that was substantially different to the car it replaced. Sales kicked off from the start of 2017.

The interior made another shift upmarket, while the latest range of Ingenium engines provided more than enough performance. The level of technology on offer was considerably improved, yet the Discovery’s off-road abilities were retained, thanks to even more complex terrain assistance systems.

Today, the 2021 Discovery update has brought electrified powertrains to the seven-seater, in the form of mild-hybrid petrols and diesels.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

33

Food & Drink

Guinea fowl stuffed with curry leaf butter

with corn and coconut puree and chilli popcorn Serves 4

• Stuffing the breast: Using your finger, create an air pocket between the skin of the fowl and the breast meat. Evenly pipe about 2 tablespoons worth of butter inside the cavity and place in it the fridge to set for 1 hour.

• Season the supremes and heat a little oil in a pan.

Cook them skin side down for 2-3 minutes, to get a golden skin. Flip them over and pop them in an oven at 180C/ Gas Mark 4 to finish them off for 6-8 minutes. You want them to feel moist and slightly bouncy, not rock hard.

One of the things I love most about the cooking I’ve done on the radio is the colorful character of my guests. To put it bluntly, you don’t get to be a top chef by being a shrinking violet. You need charisma, creativity, passion – and eyes wide open to the world around you. Cat Ashton fits this bill.

She is originally from Australia and has travelled extensively honing her craft at Michelin starred restaurants. She is also a brilliant character and her vibrant and comforting food reflects her personality and this fancy looking – but easy to execute – dinner party dish is her creation.

You’ll need: 4 large Guinea fowl or chicken supremes (skin on) Curry leaf butter 250g butter, softened 1 clove garlic, finely grated 1 tablespoon fried curry leaves ½ teaspoon curry powder 1 teaspoon sea salt • Place all the butter ingredients into a food processor.

Whip until light and fluffy (note: this recipe makes much more than needed but can last in the fridge for a few weeks and be used for all sorts of dishes).

Corn and coconut puree 1 shallot, diced 1 clove garlic, chopped 25ml olive oil 250g corn kernels (tinned or fresh) 200ml coconut milk • Heat the oil in a pan and sweat off the shallots for 2 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and a pinch of salt and continue to cook for a further minute.

• Add the corn and mix well. Fry for 2 minutes and add the coconut milk. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until softened. Puree in a blender until smooth. Serve warm Popcorn 50g corn kernels 10ml rapeseed oil Salt Garlic powder Chilli powder • Cook the popcorn as per the packet instructions.

Then dust with salt, garlic powder and chilli powder to your desired spice level.

To serve; Serve the puree on the plate, topped with the guinea fowl and finish off with the popcorn around the plate.

This goes particularly well with spiralised raw yellow courgette, served just between the meat and the puree.

Add a few final corn kernels on the plate for decoration.

BBC Three Counties Radio presenter and cook, Nick Coffer 34

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

35

Codeword 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Sudoku

Hard Sudoku

Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repetition. Use your logic to solve the puzzles.

36

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

37

FOR ALL YOUR GLAZING NEEDS: • SINGLE & DOUBLE GLAZING • SEALED UNITS GONE ‘FOGGY’ • MIRRORS • SHELVES • WINDOWS & DOORS • LOCKS, WINDOW & DOOR ACCESSORIES

se youU r local glazier

01480 896678

www.brookviewglaziers.com email: info@brookviewglaziers.com

CALL FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTE

G.B.BUILDERS NO JOB TOO SMALL FOR ALL MAINTENANCE, RENOVATIONS AND DIY WORK All general building repairs and odd jobs Specialist in Painting and Decorating & Groundwork and Grass cutting • Brickwork & Plastering Tiling Driveways • Paths & Patios Slabbing • Concreting Blockpaving • Fencing, Carpentry • Roofing Guttering • Drainage Plumbing

Call today 07877742420 or 01480 437511 Email: g.bbuilders@yahoo.co.uk

38

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Local News

We can all make a difference

It is about changing our mindset and planning ahead There are many areas of our life where we produce waste and don’t even think about it. From using disposable wipes rather than a flannel to using a disposable cup rather than a reusable. One of the #HuntsWasteBusters explores this in a bit more detail.

"Pick up a drink on your way past" Why do we need to do this? It is probably becoming the "norm" as we find ourselves outside going for a walk in this pandemic. We may still need to queue and possibly identify with that person next to you who just needs a coffee ‘right now!’ We continually find people walking around holding a cup of coffee - its like a comforter, especially in these colder months. There is also an element of needing to "treat ourselves" with this thing we do when we go outside to play.

But the disposable cup, like many disposable items, are just due to ‘convenience’. But when you are planning to go for a long walk, why not plan to have a hot drink treat and take the reusable cup with you?

Coffee cups are the second biggest contributor to

litter after plastic bottles. Takeaway cups are usually lined with a polyethylene membrane to make them waterproof. This is very thin. They are not recyclable through conventional methods or biodegradable, meaning we have to take care to dispose of them, but usually they will end up as general waste. In addition, 25.000-micron sized particles are released into 100mls of hot liquid if left in a "paper" cup for 15 minutes - which you drink. The ocean is packed with micro particles which accumulate in places of outstanding beauty.

It can take 90 years for a takeaway cup to biodegrade - depending on the type of plastic used.

So why not see this as ‘your personal noncontribution to waste’, rather than seeing the problem as too big to care or tackle.    

DON"T USE A TAKEAWAY CUP CONSIDER A FLASK USE YOUR OWN REUSABLE CUP REFUSE A LID

Bears 1. The Golden Bear is a prize awarded to the best film at which international film festival?

2. The teddy bear was named after which famous person in history?

3. What type of filling is in the sandwiches that Paddington Bear keeps under his hat “for emergencies”?

4. Does Pudsey Bear, the mascot for Children in Need, wear a bandage over his left eye or his right eye?

5. Which William Shakespeare play contains the famous stage direction “exit, pursued by a bear”?

6. What is the name of the bear on The Muppet Show who performs stand-up comedy routines, but is often pelted with tomatoes after telling bad jokes?

7. Peppy the polar bear is the mascot for what confectionery product?

8. Who sang on the 2013 John Lewis Christmas advert, called The Bear And The Hare?

9. One of the largest lakes in the world, in which country would you find the Great Bear Lake?

10. The name of a sea witch in a Disney film and an actress who played a Bond girl, what girls’ name means “little female bear” in Latin?

1. The Berlin International Film Festival 2. Theodore Roosevelt 3. Marmalade 4. His right eye 5. The Winter’s Tale 6. Fozzie Bear 7. Fox’s Glacier Mints 8. Lily Allen 9. Canada 10. Ursula

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

39

History

1922 Traffic census at

St Neots, Little Paxton & Buckden Driving to work into Cambridge from St. Neots had become a very slow affair in pre-Covid days and it stimulated a digital traffic census which resulted in the planning of a dual carriageway upgrade from Caxton to the A1 Black Cat junction. The picture of 1925 St. Neots High Street suggests low car ownership and quiet roads.

Back in 1922 The Ministry of Transport conducted a traffic census on three roads in the St. Neots area during the seven days of August 13th -19th 1922, between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.. The count showed 2216 motor vehicles used the A45 between St. Neots and Eltisley over the census week [Cycles 1193; Motor cycles 869; Motor cars 159; Motor vans 0; Motor buses 57; Motor lorries 97; Motor lorries with trailers 15; Light tractors 0; Light tractors with trailers 0; Traction engines 6; Traction engines with trailers 13.] 387 horse-drawn vehicles used the road. [Light horsed vehicles 233; Light horsed vehicles two horses 12; Heavy horsed vehicles 104; Heavy horsed vehicles, two horses 38.] Also recorded:- Horses led or driven 6; Cattle 4; Sheep and pigs 0; Handcarts 2.

On the Great North Road between Southoe and Little Paxton. 3451 motor vehicles were recorded

and 273 Horse drawn vehicles. [Cycles 1630; Motor cycles 1109; Motor cars 1846; Motor vans 78; Motor buses 114;Motor lorries 239; Motor lorries with trailers 12; Light tractors 16; Light tractors with trailers 15; Traction engines 7; Traction engines with trailers 15; Light horsed vehicles 195;Light horsed vehicles, two horses 5;Heavy horsed vehicles 72; Heavy horsed vehicles, two horses 1;Horses led or driven 29; Cattle 24; Sheep and pigs 23; Handcarts 0] Between Buckden Station and Brampton 1394 motor-driven vehicles & 286 horse-drawn vehicles as well as 443 livestock passed the census takers.

[Cycles 1429; Motor cycles 463; Motor cars 632; Motor vans 38; Motor buses 107; Motor lorries 129; Motor lorries with trailers 1; Light tractors 0; Light tractors with trailers 15; Traction engines 3; Traction engines with trailers 6; Light horsed vehicles 169;Light horsed vehicles, two horses 3;Heavy horsed vehicles 104; Heavy horsed vehicles, two horses 10; Horses led or driven 26; Cattle 19; Sheep and pigs 398; Handcarts 0.] Perhaps a 2050 census will see a return of Cycles and livestock!

Thanks to St Neots Local History Magazine No 19 from 1992

By Peter Ibbett

40

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Crossword Puzzle Solution from our July Edition Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Rose Hunt from Stevenage

July’s Codeword and Sudoku Solutions

Easy

Hard

Advertising in The Villager is easy.

To find out more call Nigel on 01767 261122 or email nigel@villagermag.com 41

The Villager Prize Crossword Prize

£25

Across 7 Take away (6) 8 Irish lochs (6) 9 Couch (4) 10 Wraps around (8) 11 Disregarded (7) 13 Hard, strong alloy (5) 15 Hints (5) 17 Supply (7) 20 Easy going (8) 21 Ashen (4) 23 Heavy mass (6) 24 Woken up (6)

Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this page and send to the address below before

16th August 2021 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP The winner will be drawn at random from the correct completed entries.

Down 1 Nothing (4) 2 Vegetable (6) 3 Umpire (7) 4 Drudge (5) 5 Type of fish (6) 6 Tends sheep (8) 12 Ran very fast (8) 14 Authors (7) 16 Power, stamina (6) 18 Gas (6) 19 Prickly plants (5) 22 Untruths (4)

Name:

Address:

42



Tel:

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

COVID-19 - SAFEGUARDING CUSTOMERS & COLLEAGUES

FREE*

Georgia toilet & basin with every bathroom order

Bathing a problem? – we can help • Wet rooms • Walk in showers and baths • Waterproof wall panelling • Slip resistant safety flooring • Grab rails & shower seats • Zero VAT on disabled bathrooms • Discounts for over 60s SSAFA and Ex Service personnel • Disabled Facilities Grants • Charity work and grants Call for friendly advice and free survey and quote

01480 275559

info@ahminstallations.co.uk www.ahminstallations.co.uk Terms and conditions apply, visit our website for more details.

*

Your Perfect Loft Access and Storage Solution

Village 62 x 93 .indd 3

05/02/2021 09:2

Our services include: Loft Ladders Loft Hatches Insulation Loft Boarding Loft Lighting Balustrades We are a family run business who comply to building regulations, where our fitters are fully insured and all of our work is guaranteed.

Covering Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Essex.

01438 211302 info@eastanglianloftladders.co.uk eastanglianloftladders.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

Call now for a free, no obligation quotation 43

PREFERRED PLUMBING AND HEATING

 24 Hour Plumbing and Heating Call Out Service  Oil and Gas Boiler Installation, Repair and Servicing  Heating Controls Installation and Upgrades  Bathroom Installations  Underfloor Heating  Landlord Certificates  Plumbing and Heating Inspections

20% Off

Oil Boiler Servicing

Gas Safe & Oftec Registered

for new clients with this advert

We undertake all plumbing and heating work No job is too small

Contact: 07463 004120 Email: steve@preferredplumbingandheatingltd.co.uk Website: preferredplumbingandheatingltd.co.uk 44

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Book Review

The OliveOlive Mediterranean Cookbook 45 delicious recipes from our family to yours

The OliveOlive Mediterranean Cookbook was created by Rob and Pam Marsden, who established their Cambridgeshire-based company OliveOlive to supply the UK with authentic, delicious olive oil from Pam’s family in Cyprus. They soon expanded the product range to include traditional, handmade halloumi cheese made by friends on the island and gave it the brand name Cyprus Village. Both the cheese and the olive oil are featured in all the recipes throughout this book, showcasing how to make the most of these delicious Mediterranean flavours in everyday cooking.

Three chapters divide the recipes into Starters, Sides & Salads; Main Meals; and Sweet & Savoury Treats. These include traditional Greek and Cypriot food such as Kleftiko, Katimeria, Ravioles and Eliopittes, alongside family favourites like Banana Bread, Black Olive Tapenade, Souvlaki and Mediterranean Pasta Bake. There is also a selection of recipes contributed by chefs who use OliveOlive products in their restaurants: Greek Style Roast Fish from Bedford Lodge Hotel and Heirloom Tomato Carpaccio with Olive Ice Cream from Maison Bleue are just some of these highlights.

Most of the recipes come from Pam, her family, and their friends, so this really is a cookbook for everyone. The vast majority of the recipes are easy to follow, with a few to challenge the more ambitious cooks, and can be whipped up in your home kitchen with minimal equipment. The family-friendly food is rustic and full of flavour, with simple steps to delicious dishes.

The book also provides readers with a unique insight into the processes that turn raw ingredients - from goats’ milk to fresh olives - into OliveOlive’s products. Rob and Pam’s customers are always interested in the authenticity of their halloumi and olive oil, as well as how to cook with them, so this book is ideal for longstanding fans of the small family-run company, as well as those yet to discover the delights of proper olive oil and halloumi cheese.

The OliveOlive Mediterranean Cookbook is a 128 page square format hardback and retails at £12. It will be available to purchase from Amazon, bookshops including Waterstones and online from www.mezepublishing.co.uk

 All building work  Property maintenance  Kitchens and Bathrooms  Painting and Decorating  Carpentry and Joinery  Plumbing and Tiling  Electrics  Fencing and Landscaping

Contact: 07463 004120 Email: steve@preferredplumbingandheatingltd.co.uk Website: preferredplumbingandheatingltd.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

45

Electrician

Frank Plater Electrical Extra sockets - Lighting - Extensions - Re-wires Security Lighting - Showers - Inspections No job too small. Free estimates Established in 1996 Tel: 01480 432154 Mob: 07976 797111

Tutor - Key Stage 1 and 2

Polly Spyer Tutoring

£20 for 30 mins

or £30 for an hour

Key Stage 1 and 2 (ages 5-11) Maths and English tuition.

Experienced and friendly online tutor providing one to one sessions for academic support customised to your child’s needs.

FREE 30 MINUTE TASTER SESSION Contact: polly@spyer.co.uk/ 07980 310695

46

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

USEFUL NUMBERS

VILLAGER The

and Town

Life

Alcoholics Anonymous..............................0845 769 7555 Al-Anon Family Groups..............................0800 008 6811 Anglian Water............................................08457 145 145 Addenbrooks Hospital............................... 01223 245151 Papworth Hospital..................................... 01223 638000 Benefits for people with Disabilities...........0800 882 200 Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue............... 01480 444500 Carers Line..................................................0808 808 7777 ChildLine...........................................................0800 1111 Citizens Advice...........................................0344 245 1292 Cocaine Anonymous..................................0800 689 4732 Crimestoppers..............................................0800 555 111

Bringing Local Business to Local People Your local full colour A5 monthly magazine delivered free of charge to 1000s of homes and businesses in your local area.

The Villager and Town Life is dedicated to promoting local businesses, charities, community groups and everything else in your local area.

Cruse Bereavement Care............................0333 252 9152 Floodline....................................................0845 988 1188 Frank—Drug Advisory................................0800 776 600 National Debt Line.....................................0808 808 4000 Gas Emergency............................................0800 111 999 NHS ..............................................................................111 National Rail Enquiries..............................03457 48 49 50 Non Emergency Police Line.........................................101 NSPCC.........................................................0808 800 5000 Relate..........................................................0845 48 49 50 RSPCA Cruelty Line....................................0300 1234 999 Samaritans............................................................116 123 Tax Credit Helpline.....................................0345 300 3900 Victim Support..........................................0845 30 30 900

For more information or to reserve your space please contact Nigel on:

Tel: 01767 261122

Email: nigel@villagermag.com Web: www.villagermag.com

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

47