VILLAGER The
Issue 121 - June 2022
and Town
Life
LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS
Inside this issue
Choosing Garden Furniture Five Reasons to Visit Sardinia 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... Choosing Garden Furniture....................................... 24 What do we mean by exotic plants?.......................... 27 Trellis........................................................................ 30 On Fun Day is Back!................................................... 33 Puzzle Page............................................................... 36 What’s On in June...................................................... 38 Villager Prize Crossword............................................ 42 Book Review - Summer Reads.................................. 44 Useful Numbers........................................................ 47
Is it Time to Try Tennis
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Five Reasons to Visit Sardinia...................................... 4 Seasonal Recipe - BBQ Steak /Chimichurri Dressing.... 8 Is it Time to Try Tennis?.............................................. 10 Brewing Today: Round Corner Brewing Company...... 12 Buying Swimwear..................................................... 15 How to Choose a Care Home...................................... 17 How to Look After Your Feet...................................... 18 Zero Waste Celebrations............................................ 23
How to Choose a Care Home
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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, Katherine Sorrell, Caroline Knight, Rachael Leverton, RSPCA and Kate Duggan
Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel: 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com Front Cover Photography moravianuk 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
Five reasons to visit Sardinia By Solange Hando
Sun-bleached beaches, glistening shores and mouthwatering food: Sardinia is a holiday destination from heaven. While the island is known for its winning sun-sea-sand combination, this Italian gem is full of surprises too. Lush mountains, hidden grottoes, Roman ruins and a cultural capital all offer some exciting alternatives to lazy days by the beach – and all just a three-hour flight away! If we’ve got you in the holiday mood, here are just five reasons why Sardinia should be on your radar when booking your next escape. 1. It’s a beach lover’s paradise Imagine swathes of powder-white sand kissed by crystal clear shores, heated by the Italian summer sun. Sounds like paradise, right? Whether you’re a family looking for shallow waters and gently sloping sands, or a couple seeking a secluded spot off the beaten track, Sardinia has a beach – or spiaggia – for everyone. With over 1,800km of pristine coastline, you’ll be spoilt for choice on where to stay. Cala Brandinchi, nicknamed ‘Little Tahiti’, is probably the island’s most famous beach. This thin arc of soft sand lapped by crystalline turquoise waters certainly lives up to its
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name. Its shallow waters are perfect for swimming, while the surrounding pine trees offer plenty of shade. Families will love the soft sands and shallow waters of Chia’s Spiaggia Sa Colonia and Spiaggia Su Portu in the south of the island. Don’t forget to look out for the wild flamingos in the lagoon! Or if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, look no further than Spiaggia di Piscinas along the Costa Verde (Green Coast). This ribbon of golden sand is home to a vast expanse of dunes, rising up to 60m. 2. The food is divine Sardinia’s food is enough reason to visit alone. A wealth of local culinary traditions mixed with the island’s Mediterranean and Italian influences combine to create a delicious cuisine heavy in grilled and spitroasted meats, not to mention a mouth-watering array of breads and cheeses. You’ll find all the classic Italian favourites such as pizza and pasta on most menus, but the local specialties are well worth a try. Su Porcheddu, or roast suckling pig, is a must-try for meat-eaters while vegetarians will love Culurgiones – pasta filled with potato, pecorino cheese, garlic and mint leaves, layered with a sweet tomato sauce.
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3. It’s more than just a beach break From colourful villages and rustic towns soaked in history to ancient stone buildings dating back thousands of years, Sardinia has plenty of sights and experiences to coax you away from the sand. With a culture rich in history and tradition, there’s something new and exciting to discover around almost every corner. Walk the city walls of Alghero, explore Roman ruins in Nora or visit in the shoulder season and take a hiking trip into the island’s lush green mountains. If you’re feeling adventurous, but want to stay close to your resort, you could even throw yourself into some water sports. Sailing, windsurfing and scuba diving opportunities await! 4. It’s the land of luxury Wake up to a view of the sparkling sea, treat yourself to a spa treatment, while away your afternoon in designer boutiques before enjoying a dinner fit for a king: there’s a reason why Sardinia is so popular with the rich and famous. The Costa Smeralda region in the north is synonymous with glitz and glamour. This glistening stretch of coastline, starting in Porto Cervo and travelling around the headland to Portisco, oozes style and sophistication. Pick your favourite superyacht, treat yourself to lunch in a gourmet restaurant and people-watch from a charming pavement cafe. Oh, and keep an eye out for famous
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faces! Sardinia’s beauty attracts billionaires and celebrities from all over the globe. 5. The holiday season is long Blessed with a warm Mediterranean climate from April to October, Sardinia is renowned for its ‘sixmonth summers’. The island is at its hottest in July and August, with temperatures reaching a scorching 30°C. This is the perfect time to visit if you fancy lazing around on the beach, topping up the tan and soaking up the holiday atmosphere. However, Sardinia also enjoys a balmy climate in April, May, September and October, giving you the chance to stretch out your summer for longer. The shoulder season is a great time to visit if you’re looking for a quieter escape and slightly cooler temperatures. It’s also a prime time to buckle up your walking boots and do some exploring.
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Seasonal Recipe
Barbecue steak with chimichurri dressing Chimichurri is a delicious spicy herb sauce ideal for serving with meats. For maximum flavour, marinate the steak in a little of the sauce overnight. When barbecuing, remember that cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of your steak and how you like it cooked. Instead of using the barbecue you can also griddle the steak. This recipe serves four as a light dish or two as a larger main. Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 8 minutes Marinate: 1-2 hours or overnight Serves 4
1. Place the sauce ingredients in a blender and process to form a chunky sauce. Place the steaks in a shallow container. Spoon a third of the sauce over the beef. Cover and place in the fridge for 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
Ingredients 2 x 150g lean beef fillet steaks 200g bag of mixed salad leaves 4 radishes, sliced thinly ½ a cucumber, cut in half lengthways and sliced
2. Remove the steaks from the fridge and allow to reach room temperature.
Chimichurri sauce 1 garlic clove, crushed Pinch of sea salt Pinch of black pepper ½ a red chilli, deseeded and chopped Large handful of flat-leaf parsley leaves Handful of coriander leaves Pinch of ground cumin 30ml apple cider vinegar 75ml olive oil
3. If barbecuing, make sure the barbecue is mediumhot. Alternatively, heat a griddle pan until hot. Cook the steaks, using long-handled tongs to turn it, until cooked to your liking (2-4 minutes on each side). Turn the steaks once only during cooking – any more and the juices escape, which can make the meat tough. 4. Remove from the pan and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Slice thinly. 5. Place the salad on a platter and top with the radishes and cucumber. Place the steak slices on top. Drizzle over the sauce to serve.
Nutrition per serving: 285kcal, fat 24g (of which saturates 4.7g), carbohydrates 0.9g (of which sugars 0.7g), protein 17g
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Sport
Is it time to try tennis? Wimbledon has many of us glued to the TV screen. If you find yourself itching to be out there on the court, why not make 2022 the year you take up tennis? As well as helping you to keep fit and healthy, tennis is a good way to meet new people and it can really help to lift your mood. The benefits of tennis Tennis is a great all-round exercise. For a start, it’s cardiovascular as it increases your heart rate and breathing, which helps to keep your heart strong. You’ll burn around 400 to 600 calories an hour and work several different muscle groups. Tennis is also a weight-bearing exercise, so helps to strengthen your bones and reduce your risk of osteoporosis. Plus, it’s good for improving flexibility, balance and coordination. Who can play Most people can learn tennis as it can be adapted for different needs. Around 500 tennis venues across the UK deliver sessions for people with a disability or long-term health issue. Wheelchair Tennis is becoming increasingly popular and many clubs have sports wheelchairs available to hire. Visually Impaired Tennis is also growing in popularity. It uses a different court and a special ball that makes a louder noise on impact. For more details, email disabilitytennis@lta.org.uk.
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What you’ll need Some tennis clubs will let you hire a racket. If you need to buy your own, look for one that’s suitable for beginners and has a larger head to make it easier to hit the ball. Rackets have different size handles, so you’ll probably want to try a few out in person rather than buying online. When you grip the handle, there should be around a 1cm gap between your thumb and first finger. Tennis balls can be picked up pretty cheaply. If you’re a complete beginner, look for ones with red markings. These are slower and lighter than standard tennis balls. The next level up is orange and then green, which is around 25% slower than standard. What to wear Dress in comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely. Layers are a good idea, especially if you’re playing outdoors. And, of course, you’ll need a decent pair of trainers. How to learn tennis Whether you have an old racket lurking in a cupboard or you’re a complete beginner, you’re likely to find a suitable class at your local leisure centre or tennis club. If you’d rather have one-to-one coaching, search for an accredited coach at www.lta.org.uk.
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Food & Drink
Brewing Today: Round Corner Brewing Company
Multi award-winning Round Corner Brewing Company is located in Melton Mowbray and produces beers of unmistakable character. Indeed, their logo states, ’Uncommonly Good Beer’. The beers are inspired by, and pay respect to, the hugely popular and very much thriving agricultural town and surrounding area. Certainly, the standards of Round Corner Brewing are very high – the numerous awards they keep gaining are testament to that! Melton Mowbray, plus the surrounding area, is recognised and renowned for locally-made Stilton cheese and pork pies. The market in Melton Mowbray has a long history. Food/drink events take place each year and attract vast amounts of visitors. The Round Corner Brewing Company has more than twenty years of knowledge and experience, inputted by head brewer and co-founder Colin Paige. Combie Cryan is also co-founder and with their committed, dedicated team, they produce beers to an exceptional standard, which have something for all tastes and palates, having numerous lovers of their beers becoming ‘devotees’ to the brand. FRISBY (4.2% vol). This very popular lager has its maturation period extended, plus, with Fuggles hops, then produces a most pleasant aroma and drinking taste. DROVERS (4,3% vol) is described as a ‘Session IPA’. This hazy, Vermont beer is dry-hopped and uses Lemondrop, Bavaria Mandarina, Citra, Mosaic and Motueka hops very well. STEEPLECHASE (4.4% vol) is a classic pale ale, utilising English barley malts to great advantage. New Zealand and US hops combine, for this very popular beer. GUNMETAL (4.8% vol) I would describe as a ‘Black Lager’. The dark brown appearance entices to the aroma and then on to the mouth’s pleasures. Biscuity, malty, smooth. REVEREND HOOKER (5.5% vol). This Irish stout is a further, hugely popular production. The mouthfeel and palate’s smooth experience definitely do not disappoint. HOPPING SPREE (6.6% vol). This West Coast IPA is a golden delight. The ABV is raised, so that the full potential of this beer comes to recognition – Splendid! For all details of the full range of beers, plus latest news, tours and tastings, please make contact or visit the website. Round Corner Brewing Ltd, Melton Mowbray Market, Scalford Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE13 1JY. Tel: +44 (0) 7585 792 494 E-mail: info@roundcornerbrewing.com www.roundcornerbrewing.com
As always, Enjoy!
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ey Trevor Langl
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House of Colour
Buying swimwear? As we might be able to actually travel to some hotter climes and enjoy some good weather thoughts turn to swimwear. Finding the right shapes and styles in swimwear is not always easy and I can’t say I enjoy finding it for myself but there are a few good principles to bear in mind. We all want to feel confident. Great colour – choose a wow colour on you. There’s nothing more confidence inspiring knowing you’ve got the right colour on so make it one of your best. Try it on at home – trying swimwear on in a shop can be thoroughly dispiriting, you’re not fully prepped when you look at yourself in the mirror, nor are you in the holiday you’re aiming for! Try at least two sizes in the same style as it can make a difference to coverage and comfort. Also move around a lot in it when you’re trying it on. Does it move with you or expose areas you’d rather not have on view? Clearly you need to be prepared to send/take them back. Scale of pattern – When you’re looking at pattern be aware of the size and scale of it on you. Does it look too overwhelming or too small? Your style session notes if you’ve had a style consultation will help. Shape – look at the shape of the swimsuit, bikini etc. Is it more of a straight cut or does it have curves? You need one that reflects your shape too. Bikini, halter crop, tankini, etc. – there’s a lot to choose from. First consider are you lounging or actually swimming. If you’re in the sun a lot consider a rash vest for sun protection. If you’re wearing a cropped item, is it cropped in the right place? Do you look foreshortened in it? High waisted bikini bottoms are a big trend currently but can be too high for some body shapes.
Trends – trends to look out for: Cut out – depending on your clothing personality elements where there is a piece cut out are definitely having moment. Angular body shapes and dramatic clothing personalities will feel most at home here. Be aware of where the cutout will sit on you and whether that will flatter your proportions, and cope with movement! A high leg cut is key to this trend and can be very flattering! Ruffles – wonderful in larger scale on curvaceous figure and in smaller scale for those who need delicate prettiness. Print – tropical prints and bold abstract designs are very much in evidence in swimwear, lovely on Dramatics and Naturals. Consider where the designs sit on your body when the swimwear piece is on – will that be flattering given your proportions. You won’t want a large line or end point highlighting your widest point. Texture – can be a forgiving element and there are quite a few options from M&S to Free People that have a texture to the fabric. Ruching and fabric twists are a mainstay here. It’s a very on trend element currently too. Micro-glitter – from sheen to a more eye catching element there is definitely a sprinkling of glitter and gleam to swimwear. If it feels good and you feel good in it wear it and wear it with pride! 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-a-stylist
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Special Report
How to choose a care home Choosing a care home for yourself or someone you love is never easy. Here are a few things you’ll want to consider. Nursing homes versus care homes Nursing homes have qualified medical staff on site; care homes may not, so do consider what type of service you’re looking for. It’s worth speaking to your GP about which type of home might be best and whether they can recommend anywhere. Your local council can also assess your care needs. Certain health conditions, such as dementia and Parkinson’s, will require specialist care, so you’ll need to check whether the homes you’re looking at have staff with suitable skills and experience. Budget You’ll want to check whether you’re entitled to any financial support towards the fees, so do contact your local council for a means test. Extra support towards nursing care may also be available from the NHS. Once you know what help you’re entitled to, you can work out which local care homes are within your budget. Remember to check exactly what the fees cover and how much notice you’ll be given when the fees increase. What makes you happy? Have a think about the type of care home you or your loved one would most enjoy living in. Do you want a garden? What kind of activities would you like to take part in? Do you want a small, peaceful home, or a larger, sociable one near to shops and cafés? Do you need one on a bus route to make it easier to reach for visitors? Do you need a home that will accept visits from pets?
Read reviews Check the regulatory authority’s report for each care home that you’re considering and read reviews at www.carehome.co.uk and www.iwantgreatcare.org. It’s also worth asking for opinions on social media, for example on your local Facebook groups. Visit each care home on your shortlist Brochures and websites are useful for creating your shortlist, but you’ll want to visit a few homes before you make your final decision. When you visit, speak to a few members of staff and residents, as well as the manager. Prepare a list of questions before you go. Does the home feel dark and dated or light, fresh and inviting? How welcoming do the social spaces feel? Can you sample the food or at least see the menu? What’s the policy for visitors? If you or your relative has a physical impairment, how will the home manage that? What size rooms are available? Extra information You can search for local care homes at www.carehome.co.uk, where you’ll also find reviews and advice on financial support, care needs assessments and more. Age UK (www.ageuk.org.uk, 0800 055 6112) has lots of advice about choosing and paying for a care home. You may also want to seek advice from specialist health charities, such as the Alzheimer’s Society (www.alzheimers.org.uk, 0333 150 3456) and Parkinson’s UK (www.parkinsons.org.uk, 0808 800 0303).
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Health
How to look after your feet
Our feet are our first point of contact with the world, and yet too often we cram them into illfitting shoes and leave them until last when it comes to self-care. From athlete’s foot to ingrown toenails, there are a variety of issues that can crop up as a result of poor foot care. So, what can you do to – literally – put your best foot forward, and how can you resolve any issues should they arise? Prevention is better than cure, so the best place to start is with your choice of shoe. A good pair of shoes should support and protect your feet, and allow natural movement when walking. Look for breathable fabrics, roomy toe-boxes, cushioned soles and low heels. Although wearing high heels once in a while won’t do much harm, long-term use has been linked to ingrown toenails and even arthritis. Once you’re wearing the right shoes, keeping your feet in good condition should be fairly straightforward. Applying a moisturiser or foot cream daily will help prevent cracking, and using a pumice stone or foot file will tackle any hard skin that often appears around the heels. It’s also important to check your feet regularly for cuts, sores, redness or swelling – especially if you’re diabetic. This is because raised blood sugar levels can often lead to a reduction in blood supply to your feet, which means that cuts and sores may take a while to heal. When it comes to foot care, toenail trimming is key. The trick here is little and often. Experts recommend
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trimming your nails every six to eight weeks, cutting them straight across using clean, sharp clippers. The best time is when you’re just out of the bath, but be careful not to cut them too short. Ingrown toenails are often the result of over-trimming, and besides being extremely painful, in extreme cases, may need an operation to resolve. Athlete’s foot is another common foot problem, caused by walking barefoot in communal spaces such as gyms, showers or swimming pools. This fungal infection usually starts between the toes, causes significant discomfort, itching and pain, and can even spread beyond the feet if not treated. Over-the-counter fungal creams are the best solution, but it’s also important to keep your feet clean and dry in-between treatments. Some foot ailments can be slightly more bothersome, however. Ledderhose disease is a rare condition that causes connective tissue to build up and create hard lumps on the soles of the feet. The growths aren’t cancerous but they can cause pain, especially when walking. Home remedies include wearing soft shoe inserts, stretching, massages and anti-inflammatory drugs, but doctors might also recommend surgery in more serious cases. Although chiropody becomes more important as we age, taking good care of our feet also gets harder as we lose flexibility. If you’re experiencing any aches, pains or symptoms in your feet, visit your local chiropodist who will be able to help diagnose any issues and advise next steps.
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Environment
Zero Waste Celebrations As we enter the warmer months, we will begin to think about picnics, BBQs and other alfresco dining, especially with the Jubilee celebrations at the beginning of June. But rather than heading for the usual, could you make it a more sustainable experience? Could you make it zero waste? There are a growing number of Eco Party Pack hires, where you can hire cups, plates and cutlery, as well as tablecloths and bunting, which can be used again and again, reducing the waste caused by disposables. Simply do an online search, many have local Facebook groups. If you are asking everyone to bring a dish to contribute, ask them to bring it in a reusable container. You could even ask them to think about the waste they may create in making dishes and to try to minimise, by using many of the refill shops we are lucky enough to have in our district, or even contribute some home grown produce. If buying packaged, think about the recyclability of the packaging, and try to follow the waste hierarchy. Could you hold an award for the most sustainable / zero waste options? Also keep a note of what everyone is bringing to ensure you have a variety of dishes, and do not end up creating any food waste. Don’t only think about the waste that might be
created, and plan to minimise it, but use it as an opportunity to use up ingredients that would otherwise be wasted: Use up leftovers - mix meats and veg with pasta or cous cous or into a salad. Make some croutons with bread passed its best Use up those bits at the back of the cupboard you’re not so keen on, and make them for others to try Remember to take any waste home with you, keeping any food waste, such as peels and cores, separate to add to your green bin or home compost. Empty Tupperware is great for this. Recycling can be rinsed or washed and added to your recycling bins. You may want to take excess bags with you to make sure you can keep clean recycling, recycling that needs cleaning and any waste that is created all separate. It is better to over prepare and not need it, than need it and not have it. Share your Zero Waste successes with friends and family and inspire them to try it too. For some further inspiration, check out https://www.hubbub.org.uk/litter-free-picnicinspiration-guide. Happy zero waste celebrating!
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Interiors
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By Katherine Sorrell
Choosing garden furniture Enhance your outside space with furniture that is handsome, comfortable, practical and long-lasting. Here are some tips on selecting the best options for you. What could be nicer than relaxing over a coffee and a book on your balcony, enjoying drinks with friends in your courtyard or eating dinner with family in the garden? We all appreciate our outside spaces much more these days, and the trend is to treat them as extensions of our living areas, with lighting, soft furnishings and furniture that really suits the way we live. The good news is that huge changes in design and technology over recent years have brought about great improvements in the quality of outdoor furniture, ensuring that it is not only more comfortable to use but also looks better and lasts longer. There are endless choices, at all price levels, to suit any kind of outdoor lifestyle. When picking out new garden furniture, the first question to ask is who will use the space, and what for? Will it be for meals, socialising or relaxing in the sun? How many people need to be accommodated,
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whether regularly or occasionally, and do they have any special requirements? Thinking about this will help decide what furniture you need, whether a dining set for six or more, a bar set, a small bistro set for two, a sofa and pair of armchairs with comfortable cushions, or a hammock, swing seat or set of loungers. In larger gardens, you may wish to have several groupings of furniture, and where there are beautiful views it is nice to place an armchair, bench seat or swinging egg chair so as to enjoy them. In a small garden, corner and L-shaped sofas, slim benches and foldaway chairs can help make the most of the space, or another way to compromise is to buy a set in which the table can be raised to dining height and, afterwards, lowered to act as a coffee table. Consider where the furniture will be placed, as this will determine the largest sizes you can opt for.
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You will need level ground, near the house, with enough space not only for the furniture but also to pull chairs in and out and to walk comfortably around the set-up. Pay attention to the way the sun moves around the garden and avoid any particularly exposed areas, and consider whether it’s either necessary for furniture to be so heavy that it doesn’t get blown away or light enough to be moved around easily. Scale is important, too – in a small space, chunky pieces may look out of place, while slender furniture can be ‘lost’ in a large garden. Bear in mind that, for a good proportion of the year, you won’t be using your new garden furniture – but you will be able to see it from the house. Does it look good from all angles? Will it need a cover of some sort? And some elements – e.g. cushions – will need to be stored during winter, so ensure there is enough space available, indoors or out, to do this. Finally, how will the furniture work with its surroundings and what styles do you prefer? Depending on the period of the house and the look of the garden, you may opt for a deliberately traditional look, something very modern, or a timeless style that’s somewhere in-between. The natural colours of rattan and timber, in classic, elegantly rounded shapes, work beautifully with country gardens and older properties, while brighter colours and minimal, angular shapes look great with modern properties and urban courtyards. Garden furniture can be a major investment, so it is worth spending time researching all the alternatives online and in person, asking the retailer about materials, durability, aftercare and any guarantees. Choose pieces that reflect both the interior of the house and your personality – and you will enjoy them immensely for many years to come.
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2 What material is best for garden furniture? Metal Choose rust-proof metal and it will be strong, durable and low maintenance, though will retain heat on warm days (don’t burn your legs when you sit down!). It can be powder-coated for a choice of colours. Timber Teak contains natural oils that enhance its durability, while solid oak is naturally long-lasting, provided some regular aftercare is carried out. All timber will wear naturally over time, but bear in mind that cheaper woods will not last nearly as long. Weatherproof wicker While natural wicker is not weather-resistant, this popular choice is made using a synthetic material that can be woven like real rattan, with variations of tone and texture, onto a lightweight aluminium frame. Quality versions look and feel like natural wicker but are completely weatherproof. Plastic Can be a cheap option, but not always. Look for sculptural shapes, cool colours and eco-friendly, recycled credentials.
1 A classic foldable design in walnut-coloured timber, this dining set is practical, good-looking and affordable. Copenhagen four-seat dining set, £599, Dobbies. 2 Give your garden a modern makeover with a dining set in powder-coated aluminium. Zuiver Vondel small garden table, £849; small garden bench, £439; and pair of garden armchairs, £518; all Cuckooland. 3 Hand-woven in synthetic rattan with waterproof cushions, this sofa set has a classic/contemporary look that works in many styles of outdoor space. Sussex mocha sofa and lounge armchairs with 113cm coffee table, £2,159, Bridgman. STOCKISTS Bridgman: 020 8804 7474; bridgman.co.uk Cuckooland: 01305 231 231; cuckooland.com Dobbies: 0131 5616 406; dobbies.com
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Gardening
What do we mean by exotic plants? When we talk about exotic plants, it simply means those that are not native. Historically, here in the UK there has been a drive to promote the planting of native trees and shrubs, provided the provenance is known, because of the risks of pests and diseases. The danger is lower when growing seed that has been harvested from trees grown here. The young plants tend to be more resilient and they display a better ability to adapt. Imported seeds, plants and trees carry a risk of introducing alien pests and diseases into the UK, against which our native species have no natural defence. There is, however, a problem with the long-term biosecurity of our UK trees. Did you know there are now only around 30 truly native species, plus subspecies and hybrids that have naturalised themselves here? The term ‘native’ is generally defined as trees that established themselves in Britain around 10,000 years ago. This was the end of the last ice age, at a time when the English Channel was gradually forming. Plant hunters began collecting specimens from around the world during Roman times. The activity saw plants introduced into Britain and this gradually opened the window for pests and diseases too. The
Ages of Discovery and Enlightenment saw more and more explorers setting off around the world and bringing back unusual plants, in addition to teas, food, spices and animals. Many of the living species ended up in private collections or in botanical gardens. This extended the range of plants within the UK, and we have come to love and admire many of these introduced species. The glorious Liquidambar, or sweet gum, for example, is native to Asia, parts of the Mediterranean and North America. Many acer trees originate not only from Japan but also from China and Korea. The tulip tree, Liriodendron tulipifera, hails from North America, and many of the flowering cherries originate from Japan, China and the USA. Even apple trees have an exotic history! The original ancestor of many modern apple cultivars can be linked back to an ancient apple: Malus sieversii. This wild apple is native to the mountains of Kazakhstan in Asia, where they can still be found today. It’s not surprising that UK trees have succumbed to many devastating problems. One of the first to be widely recognised was Dutch elm disease, which was said to have been accidentally imported from
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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
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Canada in the late 1960s. It is thought to have killed over 30 million elms. Ash dieback was first reported around ten years ago and this disease is expected to kill up to 95 per cent of Fraxinus excelsior. In the last 30 years there have been more than 20 serious problems caused by imported pests and diseases. Many diseases are caused by fungus pathogens, such as Phythopthora ramorum, which is affecting larch trees, and Phythopthora pluvialis, which affects western hemlock, certain types of pine trees and the Douglas fir. The latter was originally found in Oregon in the USA. The Oak Processionary Moth, native to southern Europe, is now found in London and restrictions on movement of oak trees have recently been put in place by Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs). This raises a question about exotic plants. Should we avoid planting them, or welcome species that are not native? Many people believe that the tipping point has now been reached. UK species are declining so rapidly that we need to extend the range of plants. This means planting non-natives that will safeguard the future tree canopy of this green and pleasant island, especially now that we know the true value of trees in respect of tackling climate change. There is a lot to be said for strength in diversity. Planting exotic species together with natives will help to plan for the future, knowing that the climate is changing. It is estimated that summer
temperatures will rise by up to ten degrees centigrade by the end of the century. Extreme weather events, such as flooding, drought and high winds, are increasingly likely. UK wildlife generally prefers native species of tree and shrub, but looking to the future is now essential. Our woodlands, garden planting and the wider landscape requires future-proofing and cannot adapt fast enough without our help. The right plant in the right place, for both now and the future, has never been so important.
Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk
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Garden View
Trellis
Trellis is underutilised in most gardens, yet it has a myriad of uses. It can cover an ugly wall or screen an ugly garden building, and it can be used on one or more sides of a patio to provide privacy. You can use it as a framework to support plants but can also be a decorative feature in its own right. Strategically placed trellis can make a garden appear more interesting. Counterintuitively it can also provide the illusion of greater space by interrupting the line of sight and making people curious so drawing them out into the garden to explore. Most garden centres have a good range of functional and attractive trellis, readymade into units. If you can’t find exactly what you are looking for there are companies who will precision cut a specific design and size for you. Obviously, you will pay more for the privilege, but you will get exactly what you want. In a small space where you might only need one piece it can be a worthwhile investment, because in a small garden any structure is more noticeable and becomes a visual statement. If you plan to grow plants up your trellis then make sure the posts or wall that it is fixed to will support the weight of the trellis plus the full-grown plant. It can be tempting to plant a variety of climbers, but
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a small space often benefits from bold planting using fewer varieties. Beware of using all deciduous plants because the structure will look bare in the winter. Vines such as Vitis coignetiae, which has large heartshaped leaves and beautiful autumn colour are great for a large area. V. vinifera ‘Purpurea’ has very attractive leaves which as the name suggests are purple. It produces bunches of dark, tightly clustered grapes. Clematis are a good choice. C. montana is vigorous and might swamp a small trellis, but if you have the space they can be grown through other climbers and produce a fabulous summer display. Ivies are good for winter colour. Don’t think that all ivies are dark green. H. Helix ‘Goldheart’ has super attractive yellow leaves edged in bright green while H. helix ‘Chester’ has leaves with wide cream margins and is good for brightening up a gloomy area. Passion flowers look very exotic and are a particularly good choice for a trellis. Scented climbing roses are one of my favourite plants to grow up trellis which is screening a patio. I love ‘Compassion’, which has the most beautiful blooms in pink / apricot, and a strong, sweet fragrance. Prune every winter. Remember to check trellis every year for broken or rotten supports and treat periodically with wood preservative to prolong its life and freshen its appearance. Consider adding a trellis screen to your garden this summer. Happy Gardening By Rachael Leverton
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Pets
One Fun Day Is Finally Back!
Saturday 18th June 2022 – 9.30am to 5pm The RSPCA ‘One Fun Day’ is back with exciting events all across the country. Join us for what promises to be a spectacular day. On Saturday 18th June 2022 at the RSPCA Bedford shop on Thurlow Street (near the bus station), we will be taking part in the National RSPCA One Fun Day. This is just one of over 40 events happening simultaneously across the country organised by the RSPCA to support our network of branches, animal centres and all of the animals in our care, and we would love you to be part of it. One Fun Day is back ‘in the real world’ this year following our covid enforced virtual fun days in recent years, and we’re getting ready to welcome you to a wonderful day of animal-themed fun. We will be running a tombola, name the bear competition, adopt a pet (cuddly toys) and a lucky dip amongst other things! Naturally, we will also be having a raffle with a lot of really exciting prizes – some of which have been very kindly donated by local businesses. Prizes range from Amazon vouchers to a Marks and Spencer food hamper. Face painting is another popular activity that we will be running in the shop. Why not ask our talented artist to transform you or a member of the family into their favourite animal? If you or your business or company would like to donate any raffle prizes – it is not too late. Please contact the Bedford shop on the number below, or drop us an email. And if you would like to offer to volunteer to help out at your local One Fun Day event, visit the national RSPCA website, search for ‘One Fun Day Volunteer’ and complete the short form so that you can be matched with your nearest local One Fun Day. Or call the shop with your enquiry. No two One Fun Day events are the same. If you are not in Bedford on Saturday 18th June but would
really like to support the event, why not log on to the national RSPCA website. You will then be able to find out what’s taking place in your area. Everything from charity shop parties, family nature walks and family fun days. Ampthill, Hitchin and Cambridge for example, are all hosting exciting activities. All designed for us to celebrate being One RSPCA and raise valuable funds to directly help animals whilst having fun in your local area. We look forward to seeing you there. Have you seen our Facebook page yet, which keeps you informed of the work we undertake in the local area? We also detail the fluffy friends that are looking for their new ”forever homes”. Please search “RSPCA Bedfordshire North” within Facebook and feel free to follow our page. You’ll then be able to see our fabulous Jubilee window display, as designed and created by our shop manager, Elsie. If you need to contact our Branch (North Bedfordshire) for any reason we can be reached by the details below, or for an animal welfare issue or emergency, contact 0300 1234 999. Lines are open 7 days a week 24/7. info@rspcabedsnorth.org.uk 01234 266965 / 01234 930304
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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
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What's On
WHAT'S ON IN JUNE 1 JUNE Children’s Multi Sports Activities 2-4pm QEII Playing Field, Little Paxton HDC free children's multi-sport activities for children aged 5-11. Please 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 1 JUNE Brampton Flower Club 7.30pm Community Centre, Brampton High Street Meets the first Wednesday of the month. Visitors welcome. 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 JUNE 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! 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 JUNE St Neots Choral Society 7.30-9.30pm Eynesbury Junior School, Montagu Street, Eynesbury Rehearsals are every Wednesday in term time. Tel: 01480 212298 Web: www.stneotschoral.org.uk 2 JUNE Roxton & District Local History Group. 7.15pm for 7.30pm Roxton Village Hall Members free, visitors £4 ‘Knights and Ladies, Peasants and Priests’. Annual membership £20. Email: mariascreen1@gmail.com Web: roxtonhistory.org.uk 3 & 4 JUNE A Look at the 50s Exhibition 2-5pm. St Peter’s Church, High Street, Offord Darcy Free entry. A Look at the 50s Exhibition - to commemorate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Free parking. Refreshments.
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4 JUNE A Day at the Races- Jubilee Celebration 4-8pm QEII Playing Field, Little Paxton Free entry. Opening ceremony 3.50pm, Hobby Horse races 4-6pm, The Roxton Press Band 6-8pm (music and dancing). Bring along deckchairs and picnics. BBQ, Beer tent, ice creams, refreshments available. Little Paxton Parish Council event. 5 JUNE Jubilee Flying Circus Air Show 9.30am-5pm. Shuttleworth, Old Warden Park, Biggleswade From the moment you arrive, circus performers on the ground and in the air will leave you with wide eyes and open mouths, whilst a circus skills workshop will teach your children the ropes. A truly unique day out and memorable occasion for all the family to celebrate. Web: www.shuttleworth.org/ jubileeflyingcircus 5 JUNE Hinxton Watermill Open Day 2.30-5pm CambridgePPF members free, nonmembers - adult £3, child £1 This stunning working watermill dates to the seventeenth century. Guides will show you how the mill works and tell you the history of this incredible building. No need to book. Web: www.cambridgeppf.org 6 JUNE St Neots Astronomical Association 7.30-9.30pm Paxton Pits Visitor Centre ‘Against the odds’, a Patagonian Eclipse by Mike Frost. Meets first Monday of the month (second if bank holiday). During summer months we have visiting speakers covering a range of Astronomical subjects with spectacular slides. No astronomical knowledge needed to appreciate the talks. Non-members welcome - first visit free. Web: snaa.co.uk
7, 14, 21 & 28 JUNE 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 9, 16, 23 & 30 JUNE 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 9, 16, 23 & 30 JUNE Bingo. 7.30pm Alconbury Sports & Social Club Eyes down for the weekly Bingo session! Web: www.assc.org.uk 10 JUNE Garden Safari. 6.30pm Tickets £10 per person Sociable evening touring a number of beautiful Hail Weston Gardens. Starts at Garden of Rest opposite Bird Lane for a glass of Pimm’s and ends at the Royal Oak Pub with a glass of prosecco (included). Tickets from Barbara Willis before 3 June (cash/cheque). Tel: 07849 272915 Email: babngra@gmail.com 10 JUNE St Neots Local History Society 7.30pm Eynesbury Primary School SNLHS members free, visitors £4 ‘150 million years in 50 minutes: the complete and utter history of Peterborough’ by Stuart Orme. Web: http://stneotslhs.org.uk 10, 17, 24 JUNE AND 1 & 8 JULY Cambourne Little Bugs 9.30am-11am Cambourne Nature Reserve Free event. Join Wildlife Adventurer Becca Badger for a series of strolls with some simple outdoor activities for toddlers. Children aged 1½-4 years. Email: commed@catrust.co.uk Web: wildlifebcn.org
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What's On
WHAT'S ON IN JUNE 11 & 12 JUNE Godmanchester Open Gardens 1.30-5.30pm Advance tickets £4, on the day £5 20 town gardens open including allotments and community nursery. www.godmanchesterinbloom.co.uk 15 JUNE Godmanchester WI 7.30pm. Church Hall, Chadley Lane, Godmanchester Meets the third Wednesday of the month. Regular speakers and activities. New members welcome. 16 JUNE Town Walk: From Cross Keys to the Kings Head. 7.30-9pm Tickets £6. Discover the secret stories of local pubs, from the Market Square to Russell Street. Walks start at the Museum in New Street and last approximately 90 minutes. stneotsmuseum.org.uk 18 JUNE Buckden Open Gardens. 12-6pm Admission £5 with garden passport, under 12s free. St Mary’s Church will be open all afternoon for live music, plant stalls, tombola and cream teas. Some gardens also offering refreshments. ‘Nature Detective’ children’s trail through the gardens. Advance Passports £4 available from Annafield Estates and Nisa before 31 May. Passports available at St Mary’s Church and all gardens on the day. 18 & 19 JUNE Bolnhurst Vintage & Country Fayre Open 10am. St Neots Rd, Bolnhurst Entry £7, OAPs £5, 10-16 years £5, under 10 free. Miniature steam engines, vintage cars, tractors, commercials, motorbikes, stationary engines, military and vintage Caravans. Market stalls, art and crafts. Real ale bar and W.I tea tent. Ring events and children’s entertainer. Tickets cash only. Tel: Janet 01234 376577 Web: www.bolnhurstrally.co.uk
18 & 19 JUNE 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. You're in serious trouble and will have to spend a night in police cells, unless you can break out of jail in 60 minutes... Web: stneotsmuseum.org.uk 19 JUNE Music for a Summer's Afternoon 3pm. Diddington Church Admission £5 on the door The Aragon Singers of Buckden concert. Admission includes cream tea. All proceeds to the upkeep of St. Laurence's Church, Diddington. Tel: Janice Endersby 07711 018910 or Mandy Williams 078790 16892 21 JUNE 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 21 JUNE Summer Wildflowers of Wandlebury. 10am-12pm Wandlebury Country Park Free – suggested donation £3 Gentle guided walk to learn about summer wildflowers at Wandlebury Country Park, led by a knowledgeable CambridgePPF warden. Meet at the large noticeboard near the car park. 22 JUNE Town Walk: Mammoths, monks and miracles 7.30-9pm Tickets £6. Step back in time and discover the people and places that shaped the town. Walks start at the Museum in New Street and last approximately 90 minutes. Web: stneotsmuseum.org.uk
Deadline for What’s On entries is the 10th of the previous month. What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.net To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122
23 JUNE St Neots & District Gardening Club 7.30pm. St Mary's Church Hall, Brook Street, St Neots Members £2, Non-members £2.50 ‘Hostas’ by Melanie Collins of Mickfield Hostas. Visitors welcome. www.stneotsgardenclub.org.uk 24 JUNE Quiz Night 8pm Alconbury Sports & Social Club £3 each. Maximum six in a group. Prize for the winner. www.assc.org.uk 25 JUNE St Neots Farmers & Craft Market 8am-1pm Little Paxton Parish Council will be having a stall at the Farmers Market to promote Paxfest & the Fun Dog Show. Rapunzel will be helping from 10am-12noon. 27 JUNE 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 relaxing stroll and chat. Web: www.wildlifebcn.org UNTIL 30 JUNE Cambridge Nature Festival The Cambridge Nature Festival is a celebration of nature on our doorstep and the wonderful people and organisations that work tirelessly for the natural world. Nature-based activities and events will be held in and around Cambridge. www.cambridgenaturenetwork.org 2 JULY Summer Concert. 7.30pm. Hinchingbrooke Performing Arts Centre, Huntingdon Tickets £15, students £5 Huntingdonshire Philharmonic will perform Edvard Grieg’s Piano Concerto in A minor. The Choir and Orchestra will perform Felix Mendelssohn’s Symphony-Cantata ‘Hymn of Praise’ (Lobgesang). Tickets available online or on the door. Tickets: www.huntsphil.org.uk
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Crossword Puzzle Solution from our May Edition Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Philip Carter, Stukeley Meadows, Huntingdon
May’s Codeword and Sudoku Solutions
Easy
Hard
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The Villager Prize Crossword Prize
£25
Across 1 Type of pudding (7) 5 Trimmed (5) 8 Large pebbles (5) 9 Brutal (7) 10 At right angles (13) 11 Without effort (6) 12 Grieves for (6) 15 A protest (13) 18 Financial system (7) 19 Beverage (5) 20 Stairs (5) 21 Hauled (7)
Complete the crossword and fill in your details below, before
16th June 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.
Down 1 Sticky liquid (5) 2 Accompanies (7) 3 Assorted (13) 4 Split (6) 5 Book of facts (13) 6 Snarl (5) 7 Removes weapons (7) 11 Goes on forever (7) 13 Fence (7) 14 Remained (6) 16 Large deer (5) 17 Nude (5)
Name:
Address:
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Tel:
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Books
Summer Reads
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.
By Kate Duggan
Tom Kerridge’s Outdoor Cooking Tom Kerridge
From Umami Mushroom & Halloumi Burgers to Shawarma Chicken Wraps, Tom Kerridge’s recipes will lift your barbecuing endeavours to the next level. Don’t panic, none of them will keep you tied to the kitchen while your friends are enjoying themselves with a beer in the garden. They may well nudge you into barbecuing daily well into autumn though.
One Italian Summer Rebecca Serle
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
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CALL FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTE 44
Reeling from the death of her mother, Katy heads to Italy on what was supposed to be a long-awaited mother-anddaughter trip. While there, she meets the 30-year-old version of her mother – almost unrecognisable from the woman Katy’s known all her life. As the two women become friends against the vivid backdrop of the Amalfi Coast, Katy works through her grief and discovers a lot more about herself in the process.
The Modern Gardener Frances Tophill – published by Kyle Books
If spending time outdoors has got you itching to make some changes to your garden, this book is a good place to look for inspiration. As the subtitle explains, it’s intended as ‘a practical guide to gardening creatively, productively and sustainably’. You’ll find bags of information on everything from designing your garden, choosing plants and addressing common challenges to using your garden plants to make drinks, natural dyes and more.
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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
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01438 211302 info@eastanglianloftladders.co.uk eastanglianloftladders.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122
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