VILLAGER The
Issue 122 - July 2022
and Town
Life
LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS
Inside this issue
Naturalistic Planting How to Deal with Conflict 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
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Inside this issue... Madeira The Pearl of the Atlantic
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Green Fingers............................................................ 28 Looking for their New Forever Homes....................... 31 How can I cut down costs when driving?................... 32 Puzzle Page............................................................... 36 What’s On in July....................................................... 38 Villager Prize Crossword............................................ 42 Book Review............................................................. 45 Useful Numbers........................................................ 47
Madeira - The Pearl of the Atlantic.............................. 4 Take a Dip Outdoors.................................................... 8 Brewing Today: Titanic Brewery................................ 12 Avocado, Orange and Vegetable Salad...................... 14 How to Deal with Conflict.......................................... 18 Money on my Mind................................................... 20 Shuttleworth Events................................................. 24 Naturalistic Planting................................................. 26
How can I cut down costs when driving?
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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 - Solange Hando, Trevor Langley, Jennie Billings, Martin Lewis, Caroline Knight, Alan Titchmarsh, RSPCA and Kate Duggan
Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel: 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com Front Cover Photography Jamie Hooper 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.
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Travel
Madeira: the pearl of the Atlantic
By Solange Hando Blessed with year-round sunshine, lush botanical gardens and world-famous levadas, Madeira is so much more than a sun, sea and sand destination – although it certainly has its fair share of beaches too. Geologically dramatic and bursting with colour, this tiny subtropical archipelago is a hit with holidaymakers from all over. Set off the west coast of Africa, Madeira is made up of four Portuguese islands, but the largest – Madeira Island – is the one the world knows and loves. This is a place where you can hike amidst lush greenery and rugged mountains in the morning, and sunbathe on black-sand beaches in the afternoon. Diverse, safe and packed with culture and history, Madeira truly has something for everyone. In case you needed any more persuasion, here are just some of the reasons to put Madeira on your travel wish list, and what not to miss while you’re there.
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It’s a hiker’s paradise Hiking Madeira’s levadas is one of the island’s top activities, with thousands of people lacing up their hiking boots to discover Madeira’s secret interior each year. These irrigation canals were built to bring water from the north slopes to the south side of the island. Although still in use, they now have another purpose, providing a route for hikers to explore the island’s most dramatic landscapes. With more than 2,000km to explore at heights reaching 1,861m, there are walking trails to suit every experience level. Some of the easier routes can be found in the south of the island, while the trails that require a higher skill level are in the north. Whichever you choose, you can expect spectacular scenery and a truly immersive experience. If you’re up for a challenge, why not take on Madeira’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo?
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Sample city life in Funchal Set against a backdrop of beautiful hills, Funchal has to be one of Europe’s prettiest capital cities. The perfect balance between laid-back and bustling, it’s known for its fascinating museums, botanical gardens, lively shopping scene and charming street cafes. The old streets, twentieth-century boulevards and pretty squares of West Funchal are home to some of Madeira’s finest shops and museums. East Funchal is dominated by the old town, Zona Velha, which has now been transformed into a trendy quarter with modern bars, galleries, shops and restaurants. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss a visit to Mercado dos Lavradores, Funchal’s vibrant fruit, vegetable, fish and flower market. A trip to Maderia’s capital also wouldn’t be complete without exploring one of the city’s sensational botanical gardens. Madeira Botanical Garden is the biggest, with the most varied collection of flora from around the world. Visit a black volcanic beach Madeira’s volcanic origin has not only gifted the island with rich and exuberant gardens, but some fantastic black beaches too. The black sand comes from eroded volcanic materials such as lava and basalt rocks, which explains why it’s typically found on beaches near volcanic activity. One of the finest is Praia do Porto do Seixal, a stunning stretch of black sand in the north of the
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island with an incredible mountainous backdrop. Since the beach faces east, it’s also considered one of the best spots for watching the sunrise in Madeira. Admire dramatic ridges and waterfalls as you swim before drying off in the morning sun. Unlike many of the beaches on Madeira Island, the sand is soft too! Take a boat trip Did you know: Madeira is one of the best places for dolphin and whale watching in Europe? A boat tour here will give you the chance to witness a staggering variety, some of which are extremely rare anywhere else on the planet. These include sperm whales, humpback whales, oceanic dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and more. Although various species can be sighted all year round, your best chance is between April and October. You could also take the two-and-a-half hour boat trip to Porto Santo, the archipelago’s second largest island. Often called the ‘Golden island’ after its gorgeous 9km-long beach, Porto Santo is the perfect destination for a spot of sunbathing and swimming. The island is also one of the best places in Europe to practice diving and snorkelling. Head to the translucent waters of Zimbralinhos beach for a chance of seeing octopus, cuttlefish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, hermit crabs and more.
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Time of Year
Take a Dip Outdoors Outdoor swimming has become popular recently. It is a simple, low-cost activity with minimal gear needs. It can be as easy as downloading a map of the best wild swimming places in the UK and heading off with your swimsuit and a towel. ‘Wild swimming’ refers to swimming in rivers, lakes, pools, the sea in more out-of-the-way locations with no lifeguard supervision, while ‘open water swimming’ refers to swimming in a river or lake within a designated area under the watchful eye of lifeguards. Both types of swimming present an opportunity to exercise, explore the local countryside and visit new places to try different waters. Swimming outdoors is beneficial for our physical health and our mental wellbeing. A study published in British Medical Journal Case Reports suggested that cold water swimming may be effective in the treatment of depression. The theory is that subjecting the body to the physical stress of cold water helps to adapt it to the stress response associated with depression and anxiety. While more evidence is needed for confirmation, so many people have reported the mood-enhancing benefits of open water swimming that specialist groups have been formed where swimmers offer mutual support and share their own experiences. True wild swimming requires no memberships, but there are registered clubs and swimming groups around the UK. The Outdoor Swimming Society’s membership grew by 36% in 2020. You don’t need to be fast or competitive, but you do need to be a competent swimmer.
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If you are attending a supervised session, they are often in or near parks open to the public. Changing facilities can be limited so it’s better to arrive ready to swim, although there are readily available ‘modesty robes’ which can be purchased from sports shops. Though there are no laws against being naked in public in England and Wales, venues can set their own rules and most require that you avoid nudity. Supervised sessions often need to be booked in advance and swimmers are checked in and checked out by volunteers. Whether you are wild swimming alone or open water swimming in a group it is advisable to wear a bright swim cap and a tow float. Some supervised venues insist on this in their rules. The floats and cap make you easy to spot if you get into difficulty, and as open water can be deep a tow float is a good floatation device if you get tired and need to stop for a while. Bear in mind that water outside is cold, even in the summer months. You will adapt though, the more regularly you swim in open water. A wetsuit will help, and you can buy neoprene hats, gloves, and socks to protect you. One advantage of supervised sessions is that the water quality is usually tested regularly to ensure maximum safety. They are a great place to start your outdoor swimming journey. Most sessions are run by volunteers who are passionate about open water swimming. They want you to be safe and get the most from your swim, so talk to them…then maybe offer to volunteer yourself.
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Food & Drink
Brewing Today: Titanic Brewery
Multi award-winning Titanic Brewery was established during 1985 in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. Their first beer brewed was named Titanic Premium. This beer is continued today, with the name changed to ANCHOR (4.1% vol) and is very popular with many beer drinkers. The complete range of beers, from the Titanic Brewery, are all distinctive in their own right, having ‘devotees’ for a good number of the productions. Their ‘Beer of the Month’ has numerous followers and can include selected pale, traditional ruby, plum porter and others, which are carefully chosen, each month. I found something for all tastes, amongst Titanic’s beers. PUB IN A BOX is extremely popular. Whilst being a splendid treat to enjoy at home, it is an obvious great gift idea, too. The box contains various bottled and canned beers, a Titanic Brewery pint glass, plus snacks and beer mats. A personalised gift card, with a message of your choice, can be included for a small charge. Different boxes – if a preference is required – can be for a Titanic Dark Ales Box, Titanic Light Ales Box, Mixed Can Cases and others. STEERAGE (3.8% vol) pale ale has a good floral and hoppy aroma with a dry, refreshing mouthfeel and palate experience. ICEBERG (4.1% vol) is an American Pale Ale that was one of the first UK beers to use US hop varieties – citrusy and zesty. CAPPUCCINO STOUT (4.5% vol) has a good aroma of coffee, which follows through to the flavour of this stout, admirably. CHOCOLATE & VANILLA STOUT (4.5% vol) has chocolate and vanilla scents, leading enticingly, to the smooth, creamy taste. WHITE STAR (4.5% vol) I found to be golden and crisp, with an excellent aroma, evoking thoughts of honey and hops. An excellent fruity, malty ale. RASPBERRY PALE (4.7% vol) has raspberries on the nose, then a light, fresh mouthfeel and palate sensation. PLUM PORTER (4.9% vol) is a deep-red, with plum flavours in abundance – splendid! CAPTAIN SMITHS (5.2% vol) is traditional, malty and strong – a firm favourite. The website has all information, including details about the range of beers, plus pubs, shop, tours, events, loyalty programme and more. Titanic Brewery, Callender Place, Lingard Street, Burslem, Stoke–on–Trent, Staffordshire ST6 1JL. Tel: +44 (0) 1782 823447 E-mail: titanic@titanicbrewery.co.uk www.titanicbrewery.co.uk
As always, Enjoy!
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ey Trevor Langl
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Seasonal Recipe
Avocado, orange and sea vegetable salad with sprouted seeds A simple vibrant salad, easy to assemble and delicious served on its own as a light meal or as an accompaniment to seafood, feta or pan-fried tofu. Preparation time: 10 minutes Serves 2 Ingredients 30g mixed sea vegetables Two large handfuls of rocket leaves 1 ripe avocado 1 orange, peeled ½ red onion, diced Handful of sprouted seeds (alfalfa, mung bean etc.) Dressing 1 tbsp white miso paste ½ tsp grated root ginger 1 tbsp sugar or xylitol 3 tbsp mirin Juice of 1 lemon 1 tbsp sesame oil 2 tbsp olive oil Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
1. Mix all the dressing ingredients together, season to taste and set aside. 2. Soak the sea vegetables in water according to the packet instructions, then drain. 3. Place the rocket in a bowl with the sea vegetables. Drizzle over a little of the dressing and toss gently. 4. Divide the leaves between two plates. Thinly slice the avocado and arrange the slices on top. 5. Cut the orange into thin slices then cut into quarters. Scatter the orange, red onion and sprouted seeds on top of the salad. 6. Drizzle over additional dressing just before serving.
Nutrition per serving: 322kcal, fat 24.3g (of which saturates 4.1g), carbohydrates 16.6g (of which sugars 13.7g), protein 8.6g
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Jill Dighton MA Counselling & Psychotherapy Practice BSc (Hons) Integrative Counselling MBACP (Accred)., UKCP Reg.
Counselling Service Depressed? Anxious? Relationship Issues? Low Self Esteem? Have you considered Counselling sessions? Based in Grafham village, I offer a professionally qualified Counselling Service to individuals and couples in a secure, confidential & non-judgemental atmosphere. Ample parking. Concessionary rates available.
For further details:
Tel: 07925 852 985 (Dedicated line with voicemail)
Email: jill@jdighton.co.uk or visit www.jilldightoncounselling.co.uk
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Special Report
How to Deal with Conflict By Sarah Davey
Its July…as the temperature rises so do tempers. Everyone feels tetchier when it’s hot. So how do you keep your cool while everyone else is boiling over? Some people are more chilled than others. Whether your temper boils over is down to temperament, past experiences, and the specific situation. Some people snap when they feel under pressure, others when they perceive injustice, and others when they feel disrespected. If you understand your own triggers you’re better placed to address them. How do you normally deal with conflict? When the ‘fight’ instinct is triggered we prepare instinctively to take an aggressive position. If our ‘flight’ instinct is the one that’s tweaked in conflict situations then we’ll beat a hasty retreat. Some of us freeze in response to a perceived threat and others instantly appease to avoid conflict. Knowing our tendency helps us map out a route before a conflict situation arises. Understanding yourself makes it easier to recognize when a tense situation is escalating to the point of conflict. Think back to your last argument. Try to recreate in your body how it felt, remembering as many details as you can. Fix that feeling in your
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head, so you recognise it as it happens. When you recognise it you can take action. Action might involve removing yourself from a situation before you explode or burst into tears. You can then work on self-calming by going for a brisk walk, screaming into a pillow, or venting your spleen on to paper (don’t give it to the other person though!). Then do something that makes you feel good; play with your cat, watch a comedy show, or listen to your favourite playlist. Once your equilibrium is restored you will then be in a better place to deal with the matter in hand, either by deciding it isn’t worth pursuing, or by means of calm discussion. The more you practice these de-escalation techniques the more skilled you’ll become.
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Money
Money on my Mind The Martin Lewis column
He’s the UK’s leading money saving expert - a journalist and presenter who has kept millions of pounds in people’s pockets as well as lifting the lid on the threats and dangers we need to be aware of as consumers. In this month’s column, Martin Lewis looks at keeping our money safe online. When visiting a site, in the web address at the top, look for an ‘s’ after ‘http’ at the beginning of the line. The lack of an ‘s’ doesn’t directly imply you are on a scam website, but it is telling you that the security certificate is inadequate, and you should refrain from entering personal information. Some browsers – Google Chrome being one – add a padlock icon denoting any website that is fully secure, or the web address could be shown in green. Also ask yourself if what’s being offered is realistic. On the internet, just as in real life, if something you see online appears too good to be true – particularly if you’ve clicked on an advert or had a pop-up appear on your screen – it probably is. Next have a look for how well written and presented the site is. There is a very real correlation between the trustworthiness of a site and the attention paid to spelling, punctuation and grammar. Furthermore, if a site looks suspicious put its name into Google. If it’s a known rogue business then there’s a good chance it’s being discussed across the web. Finally, if you are purchasing online, use a credit card or trackback financial tool, such as PayPal. That way if something does go awry, you have the security of reclaiming your money.
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Local News
Shuttleworth Events Photography: Darren Harbar Photography
Family Air Show Shuttleworth Family Air Show on Sunday 7 August will be a highly entertaining event, with a memorable line-up of aerial displays and lots happening on the ground to make it a fun family day out. Take your family by the hand and step back in time as you visit the Vintage Fairground – complete with a Merry-Go-Round and Helter Skelter! Inside the Collection hangars, you’ll also find a cornucopia of activities to keep the kids (or even the big kids!) happy, whether it’s pedal planes or an Airfix Make and Paint courtesy of IPMS Brampton – with other educational Discovery Zones dotted around the site, including a large play area. As you continue to explore the site, it will be almost impossible for you to resist a little dance as you listen to the upbeat songs from the beautiful Barn-Ettes. Outdoors, you’ll be able to experience the sensation of riding on-board a 1920s bus – whether it’s the sole surviving Charabus or our Wellingborough doubledecker. The buses will take you up to the grand Shuttleworth House, which will be open to tour. Visit the beautiful Swiss Garden and see if you can find Shuttleworth’s resident peacocks – Snowy and Storm. If you spot them, be sure to take a photo! In the afternoon, the flying display starts – an aerial ballet in the Bedfordshire skies, consisting of Shuttleworth aircraft and awe-inspiring visitors. If the weather is suitably calm, the Edwardian aircraft – including the world’s oldest flying aeroplane, the 1909 Bleriot XI – may even be able to take to the skies, capping off what will be a truly memorable day. For more information, please visit: shuttleworth.org/familyairshow
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Flying Proms Shuttleworth Flying Proms combines classical music with a delightful evening flying programme. The perfect event to sit out on the paddocks, relaxing with a picnic and a glass of something fizzy. Gates open at 2pm, giving you plenty of time to find a good spot and settle in. The concert and flying display start at 7pm, so before the music starts do take the opportunity to explore! The grand Shuttleworth House will be open to tour. You’ll be able to see first-hand the ornate gold-leafed ceilings and panelled walls, the rare Erard grand piano, and hear the stories of the Shuttleworth family who once lived there. Shuttleworth House is also accessible through the Shrubbery Walk at the end of which is the Swiss Garden, 9 acres of heritage landscape designed in the popular alpine style almost 200 years ago, with framed views, ponds and several charming miniature structures. It is a rare example of a Regency garden and boasts thirteen listed features. The Collection’s hangar doors will be thrown open for you to wander around, taking in the sights and smells of vintage aeroplanes, whilst learning about some of the roles they played in their service and racing lives and other stories they can tell. To add to the excitement, there will be vintage aircraft performing illuminated aerial displays above you, and a thrilling firework display to round off the evening - the day is set to be an unmissable event. For more information, please visit: shuttleworth.org/flyingproms
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Gardening
Naturalistic planting
Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk
Naturalistic planting What is this style that we loosely call naturalistic planting? If a vision of opposites helps to define the image, a formal garden will come close. Think of the antithesis, and you’re nearly there. A naturalistic garden could be described as wild, but if it’s been designed this way, it’s anything but. Certainly, plants drive the design. You might not associate it with a closely mown lawn or perfectly straight paths. Although, anything goes – and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t combine a naturalistic border with a neat and tidy lawn, or position it close to an undeviating hard surface. A planting scheme that is full to overflowing with perennials, together with grasses and some structural plants too, appears to work in partnership with nature. It’s a form of re-wilding the borders whilst still maintaining some sort of control over the appearance. This idea of wildness is by no means new. Indeed, William Robinson, born in Ireland in 1838, wrote The Wild Garden in 1870. He was one of the most respected garden writers and horticulturists of his time. The most successful of all plants – grass Grasses certainly have the ability to soften the landscape, forming bold statements of shape and form when used in drifts, clumps and swathes. Their flower and seed heads move in the breeze and merge effortlessly into nature. The naturalistic approach to gardening considers ecology as an important part of the process, therefore habitat potential of a planting scheme is a priority. Wildlife can abound in the damp
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understorey where there is opportunity for nest building and feasting on seed. Grass, so it seems, is no longer just to walk on, its use has progressed. It is an undeniably successful plant that covers ground in just about every country. Just leave a patch of bare soil and sooner or later grass will appear. There are more than 10,000 different species plus perhaps 5,000 sedges and rushes, so it’s easy to see why we can access so many variations in colour, shape, form and texture. Use grass for structural planting, to divide up your space in an informal way, to create moody areas, fill in bare spaces under trees, create wonderful texture and more. The uses for ornamental grasses are limitless. Gardens to visit Consider the High Line in New York, for which talented designer Piet Oudolf was partly responsible. This influential Dutchman and Henk Gerritson, a former artist from the Netherlands, are known for their ‘new wave planting’ style of ornamental grasses and perennials. Pensthorpe Natural Park Millennium Gardens in Norfolk is another fine example of Oudolf’s stunning work. The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, created for the London Olympic Games in 2012, is a variation on a similar theme. The planting was designed by Nigel Dunnett and Professor James Hitchmough. They are pioneers of ecological and innovative approaches to planting within public spaces, aiming to integrate ecology and horticulture in a most effective and attractive manner.
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Gardening
GreenFingers The Alan Titchmarsh column He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist, and all-round horticultural inspiration. This month, Alan Titchmarsh talks about the pests that parade our petunias… and more. We all want our outdoor spaces to be as beautiful and as thriving as possible, yet by employing a host of natural ways to put pests off, we can keep our courtyards canny, and our green spaces chemicalfree. The best way to do this is to think about natural barriers. These, if done well, can comfortably eradicate snails and slugs and all those little creatures who slide and slime over our prized plants. Any type of copper can be used to make a wall that electrically shocks their body, deterring them from moving further forward, while wood ashes or crushed eggshells also work to put those meddling molluscs off their lunch. While most people consider sprays and pesticides as the best way to keep unwanted intruders away, there are a range of natural squirts that do the same thing. For instance, garlic and chilli may be a culinary staple, but they hold a secret power for gardeners looking to dispose of invaders in a natural manner. Combine crushed garlic and chilli (powdered chilli will do if you don’t have fresh) with one tablespoon of vegetable oil and a small amount of dishwashing liquid or soap flakes. Leave to soak overnight in a jar, then strain and spray on plants. The spray is very
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effective towards aphids and caterpillars – but keep away from kids, avoid contact with your skin and eyes, and use within a fortnight! It’s also worth reminding ourselves that not all bugs and beasties are bad news, and done well, you can encourage some into your garden. Plant mint, fennel, dill, yarrow, sunflowers and dandelions will attract ladybirds, hoverflies and lacewings, all of which will happily feast on your aphids. Birds and hedgehogs eat slugs and snails, beetles and insects… as do frogs and toads. Finally, try a trap. Earwigs can devastate seedlings, so if they do pose a problem in your garden, try filling a few plastic flowerpots with straw and balancing them upside down on sticks to attract the pests. The earwigs crawl up the poles and take shelter in the pots at night and you can humanely dispose by emptying them in the morning. Removing pests and critters the natural way takes effort, imagination and no small amount of patience, but opening your garden to nature’s bounty, whilst preserving as much life as possible, is surely the best and most satisfying way to enjoy the fruits of your labour.
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Pets
Looking For Their New Forever Homes
MINDY The RSPCA rescue over 20,000 cats each year. Madeline and Mindy These stunning girls were adopted from the RSPCA many years ago. Sadly when their owner lost their home, the have come back to us. Madeline is black and white Fluffy and super friendly and fussy. Maddie is friendly but a little more cautious but once settled she loves chin rubs. They have always been indoor cats but have been enjoying outside space in the cattery. With this in mind we feel they would benefit from some outside space. These lovely girls have not had one enquiry. They are super friendly would love to get them back in a home, it’s what they deserve. They are in good health and don’t realise they are mature ladies. We are looking to find a suitable home that will take both Madeline and Mindy, as they would very much like to stay together. They would both enjoy living with children but would prefer not to live with a dog.
Fat Cat Fat Cat is a lovely black and white domestic short hair crossbreed, who is approximately 4 years old. Fat Cat’s owner has had to move into a care home so she is looking for a new lap to sit on. She had a very calming effect on her owner who was not well. We think you may wish to think of a new name for her! Fat Cat is still looking for a lap to sit on. Fat Cat would prefer to be the only cat in the home and would also prefer not to live with a dog. He could live with children of secondary school age and would love to be able to go outside and explore. Please make contact with a member of the team, if you would like to begin your cat adoption journey or if you have any questions about the process. Call 01234 266965. You can also get in touch my emailing us at: adopt@rspcabedsnorth.org.uk
FAT CAT
MADELINE To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122
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Motoring
How can I cut down costs when driving? The cost of living is increasing in the UK, and a car, for many people, is a crucial way of getting around. So, how can you run it as efficiently and costeffectively as possible? We’ve got some tips to help. Shop around for insurance Motor insurance is a significant outlay and while it’s tempting to automatically renew once your policy comes to an end, this could add hundreds of pounds to the cost. So shop around. Use online comparison sites to find the best prices, though calling providers directly can be worthwhile too. Give an accurate mileage figure Insurance policies require you to estimate how many miles you’ll be travelling in your car. Overestimating your mileage can ramp up your policy cost, so be as accurate as possible to help reduce cost. Pay for your insurance in full If you’re able to pay for your insurance policy in full rather than monthly then you’ll avoid paying interest on your policy. Of course, if spreading your insurance policy over twelve months avoids financial pressure elsewhere, then this option is still valid and ensures you’re covered. The same applies to vehicle excise duty (road tax). Though you can split it into smaller monthly payments, you’ll save money by paying it in full for a twelve month period. Keep your car well-maintained Servicing your car regularly helps ensure that it’s running as efficiently as possible, while technicians can check to see if there are any issues that could cause future problems.
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Regular servicing brings down day-to-day costs through better fuel economy and lower oil use. Avoid premium fuels To keep costs down it’s better to opt for regular fuel, and although premium fuels are required by many sports and performance vehicles, regular petrol and diesel cars will run perfectly well on ‘standard’ fuel. Look around for the cheapest fuel Make a note of your cheapest local station, but don’t be tempted to drive out of your way for cheaper fuel, as this is more expensive in the long run. If possible, avoid expensive motorway fuel. Check your tyres Tyres have a big impact on fuel usage and today’s ‘eco’ tyre options offer a lower rolling resistance that help improve your car’s fuel economy. There’s no loss of grip or reduction in safety with these tyres, either. Keep your tyres at the right pressure If your tyres are in good condition, however, then stick with them. Make sure they’re inflated to the correct pressures as this can have a real impact on fuel usage. An under-inflated tyre causes your car to use more fuel, so top them up regularly. The manufacturer’s recommended pressures will be in a panel behind the fuel filler flap, in the door shuts or in the vehicle’s handbook. Remove unwanted items Extra weight in your car uses up fuel, so take out coats, boxes and bags that you don’t need. Also, remove roof racks or top boxes that aren’t being used, as they have a huge impact on fuel economy.
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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
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What's On
WHAT'S ON IN JULY 1 JULY The Aragon Singers of Buckden 7.30pm Berkley Street Methodist Church, Eynesbury Free entry. Interval refreshments. Donations towards Dementia UK appreciated. Email: jjohnso49@ntlworld.com 1, 8 & 15 JULY Great Fen Little Bugs 10.30am-12pm Great Fen Countryside Centre, Ramsey Heights Wildlife Trust BCN child member £5, non-member £7 A fun and sociable morning of exploration and discovery for preschool children and their guardians. Web: wildlifebcn.org 2 JULY Summer Concert 7.30pm Hinchingbrooke Performing Arts Centre, Huntingdon Tickets £15, students £5 Huntingdonshire Philharmonic have a treat in store for music lovers. Tickets available online or on the door. Tickets: www.huntsphil.org.uk 2 JULY The Signals Museum Open Day 10am-4pm RAF Henlow, SG16 6DN The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open to the public. Entry is free but official photo ID required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom. Call on the day if information is needed. Tel: 07778 837263 www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 3 JULY Hinxton Watermill Open Day 2.30-5pm CambridgePPF members free, nonmembers - adult £3, child £1 This stunning working watermill dates to the seventeenth century. See the mill working and hear the history of this incredible building. No need to book. Web: www.cambridgeppf.org
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4 JULY St Neots Astronomical Association ( SNAA.co.uk ) We meet at Paxton Pits visitor centre on the First Monday of the Month (Second Monday if its a bank holiday. During the summer months we have visiting speakers covering a range of Astronomical subjects. Monday 4th July Big Bangs and Big rips, a history of 20th century Cosmology by Mathew Bothwell. 4 JULY St Neots Astronomical Association. 7.30-9.30pm Paxton Pits Visitor Centre ‘Big bangs to big rips: a history of 20th century cosmology’ with Matthew Bothwell. Meets first Monday of the month (second if bank holiday). No astronomical knowledge needed to appreciate the talks. Non-members welcome first visit free. Web: snaa.co.uk 5 JULY Hail Weston Wildlife and Gardening Group 7.15pm for 7.30pm Hail Weston Village Hall Members £1, non-members £3, under 18s free ‘Traditional Garden Flower Names’ with Twigs Way. An illustrated talk that meets our desire to reengage with our floral heritage and landscape. Raffle. Email: hwwgg@yahoo.com for more info/to book 5, 12 & 19 JULY St Neots Sinfonia 7.45-9.30pm Eynesbury Junior School, Montagu Street, Eynesbury Rehearsals are every Tuesday in term time. Tel: 01480 212298 Web: www.stneotssinfonia.org.uk 6 JULY Brampton Flower Club 7.30pm. Community Centre, Brampton High Street Meets the first Wednesday of the month. Visitors welcome.
6, 13 & 20 JULY St Neots Choral Society 7.30-9.30pm Eynesbury Junior School, Montagu Street, Eynesbury Rehearsals are every Wednesday in term time. Tel: 01480 212298 for membership enquiries Web: www.stneotschoral.org.uk 6, 13, 20 & 27 JULY Kimbolton Bridge Club 10am-12pm Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Meets every Wednesday for friendly, social bridge. Players of all standards are welcome with or without a partner. Just turn up! 7 JULY Roxton & District Local History Group 7.15pm for 7.30pm Roxton Village Hall Members free, visitors £4 ‘ABMC American Battle Monuments Commission’. Annual membership £20. Email: mariascreen1@gmail.com Web: roxtonhistory.org.uk 7, 14, 21 & 28 JULY Riverport Singers 10.15-11.15am The Corn Exchange, St Ives Community choir for people living with dementia, their carers, family and friends. Tel: Agi 07757 811802 Email: agipeach@icloud.com Web: facebook.com/ riverportsingers 7, 14, 21 & 28 JULY Bingo 7.30pm Alconbury Sports & Social Club Eyes down for the weekly Bingo session! Web: www.assc.org.uk 9 & 10 JULY Jail Break 4 St Neots Museum This escape room experience is based around genuine cases involving local people who broke the blackout regulations between 1939 and 1945. Web: stneotsmuseum.org.uk
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What's On
WHAT'S ON IN JULY 9 & 23 JULY St Neots Farmers & Craft Market 8am-1.30pm Products from local food producers and craft makers. 13 JULY Walk with a Warden at Wandlebury 10am-12pm Free event – suggested donation £3 Gentle guided walk to explore the wildlife and history of Wandlebury Country Park. Meet at the large noticeboard near the car park. No need to book 16 JULY Hail Weston Village Fete and Dog Show 1pm-5pm Hail Weston Recreation Ground Traditional stalls and games, crafts, bar, and refreshments. Dog Show registration 12.30pm. 16 JULY Hamlet by in situ 8pm. Leper Chapel, Cambridge Tickets £15 Richard Spaul's virtuoso solo performance of Hamlet, Shakespeare's most famous play, in the atmospheric Leper Chapel. Tickets available online or on the door from 7.30pm. Web: www.insitutheatre.co.uk 19 JULY Wild Babies at Paxton Pits 9.45-11.30am Paxton Pits Education Centre, Little Paxton Bring your pre-walking aged baby along in a buggy, pram or sling for a gentle relaxing stroll with plenty of chance to chat to other 'wild baby' parents. Web: www.wildlifebcn.org 19 JULY 10am-12pm Dementia Café St Ives Free Church, St Ives £2.50 per person For people with dementia and their carers. Tel: George 07725 588145 Web: facebook.com/ stivesdementiafriendlycommunity
20 JULY Godmanchester WI 7.30pm Church Hall, Chadley Lane, Godmanchester Meets the third Wednesday of the month. Regular speakers and activities. New members welcome. 20 JULY Town Walk: Mammoths, monks and miracles. 7.30-9pm Tickets £6. Discover the story of the town from woolly mammoths to the birth of quadruplets in 1935. Walks start at the Museum in New Street and last approximately 90 minutes. stneotsmuseum.org.uk 23 JULY Bands in the Park 2.30pm- 4.30pm QEII Playing Field, Little Paxton Little Paxton Parish Council event. Free outdoor summer concert. Bring along deck chairs, picnic rugs and enjoy a musical afternoon. Refreshments available. 25-28 JULY Holiday Bushcraft for 5-12 years 8.30am-4pm Wandlebury Country Park £38 per child/day. Experienced qualified teachers from Wild Thyme & Embers will inspire children aged 5-12 and share their knowledge and skills of surviving in the wild. Dates throughout the summer holidays. Web: wildthymeandembers.co.uk 27 JULY Children’s Multi Sports Activities 2-4pm QEII Playing Field, Little Paxton Free multi-sport activities for children aged 5-11. Bring a water bottle. Booking essential as limited numbers. Contact the Clerk to book - include full name of child, parent/ carer’s name and contact telephone number on emails. Tel 01480 470193 Email: clerk@ littlepaxtonparishcouncil.gov.uk
28 JULY St Neots & District Gardening Club Meeting 7.30pm. St Mary's Church Hall, Brook Street, St Neots Members £2, Non-members £2.50 ‘Dahlias in the garden’ by George Lockwood. Monthly competition a stem of flower/s foliage in a vase. Raffle and refreshments. www.stneotsgardenclub.org.uk 28 JULY St Neots & District Gardening Club meetings @ St Mary’s Church Hall, Brook St St Neots All meetings start at 7.30, members £2.00, Non members welcome £2.50. Thursday 28th July Dahlias in the garden BY GEORGE LOCKWOOD Saturday 13th August 2.00 Annual summer show -Jubilee Hall School lane Eaton Socon PE19 8GW www.stneotsgardenclub.org.uk 29 JULY Cambourne Little Bugs 9.30am-11am Cambourne Nature Reserve Join Wildlife Adventurer Becca Badger for a stroll around Cambourne Nature Reserve, and some simple outdoor activities for children aged 18 months-4 years. Booking essential. Web: wildlifebcn.org 29 JULY Quiz Night 8pm Alconbury Sports & Social Club £3 each. Maximum six in a group. Prize for the winner. Web: www.assc.org.uk 30 JULY in situ presents Ghost Stories II 8pm. Leper Chapel, Cambridge Tickets £15. Ghost Stories II: told by Richard Spaul. Song and story combine in a spinetingling performance of spooky classics. Tel: 01223 211451 Web: www.insitutheatre.co.uk
The deadline for What’s On entries is Monday 11th July. What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.net
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Crossword Puzzle Solution from our June Edition Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Emily Haynes, Great Paxton
June’s Codeword and Sudoku Solutions
Easy
Hard
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The Villager Prize Crossword Prize
£25
Complete the crossword and fill in your details below, before
16th July 2022 Either cut out this page and send to Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd. 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Or photograph your entry and email to competitions@villagermag.com The winner will be drawn at random from the correct entries.
Across 1 Unable to hear (4) 3 Previously (8) 9 A lawn game (7) 10 Tease (5) 11 Produced (12) 14 Period of time (3) 16 Stop (5) 17 Feminine pronoun (3) 18 In spite of (12) 21 Shoreline (5) 22 Placing (7) 23 Daily (8) 24 Requests (4) Down 1 Twelfth month (8) 2 Embellish (5) 4 Not in (3) 5 Dimensions (12) 6 Entrants in a race (7) 7 A toy (2-2) 8 Adequately (12) 12 Map or diagram (5) 13 Communications (8) 15 Mean (7) 19 Departs (5) 20 Land measurement (4) 22 Small vegetable (3)
Name:
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Books
Crafts, hobbies and weekend projects By Kate Duggan Summer tiiime, and the living is eeeeasy…. Whether you’re looking for some barbecue inspiration or a new novel to keep you company on the hammock, we’ve got you covered.
Learn Drawing Quickly Sharon Finmark
This little book packs in a huge amount. You’ll find plenty of practical advice on composition, shading, perspective, proportion, choosing materials and so on, along with simple exercises and ideas for subjects. There’s everything from watercolour flowers to sketched urban street scenes. An overarching theme is of finding the beauty in everyday objects – a kitchen shelf, kids playing on the carpet, a man’s shirt. If you want to start drawing, improve your existing skills or just get some fresh inspiration, this book is a must.
Woodwork: The Complete Step-by-Step Manual Published by DK
Many of us tried woodwork in school. And for most of us, that’s where we left it. If you fancy dusting off your skills, this book could prove invaluable. There’s detailed guidance on tools and techniques, as well as stepby-step instructions for a wide range of projects, from a simple chopping board and wine rack to a more ambitious glass-fronted cabinet and gateleg table. Whether you’ll learning how to sharpen a bench plane or make a bookcase, the full colour photographs and easy-to-follow instructions will make your life a lot easier.
She’s in Ctrl Anne-Marie Imafidon
Perhaps you’re looking to turn a hobby into a career? Women are currently underrepresented in tech. In She’s in Ctrl, computer scientist Anne-Marie Imafidon looks at how more women could be encouraged into engineering, coding, physics and other STEM careers. She shares her own story, as well as those of other female pioneers who are helping to transform the world of science and technology.
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