Cambs June 2022 by Villager Mag

VILLAGER The

Issue 158 - 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 Buckden, Brampton, Godmanchester, Eaton Socon, ur E o Y The Hemingfords, Grantchester and all surrounding villages REpy

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Inside this issue... Is it Time to Try Tennis

From Wooden Shed to St Neots High Street Shop................ 4 Five reasons to visit Sardinia............................................................ 6 Brewing Today: Round Corner Brewing Company.................. 12 Is it time to try tennis?...................................................................... 17 The History of Instant Coffee.........................................................19 Active Ingredients..............................................................................20 Interested in Family History........................................................... 24 Buying Swimwear...............................................................................26 Carers Week 2022...............................................................................29 Wills and Probate at Leeds Day LLP............................................30 How to look after your feet...........................................................33 Get the best deal...............................................................................36 What do we mean by exotic plants?.......................................... 42 Under Pressure.................................................................................... 47 One Fun Day is finally back!............................................................48 Cutting Edge Technology................................................................50

Choosing Garden Furniture............................................................ 52 Is Suzuki's Vitara 'Full Hybrid' worth considering?..................54 BBQ Steak with Chimichurri Dressing......................................... 57 Wordsearch..........................................................................................58 Puzzle Page...........................................................................................60 What's On in June............................................................................... 62 How to Choose a Care Home........................................................64 Zero Waste Celebrations.................................................................66 Summer Loving...................................................................................69 Is there such a thing as a mid life crisis?....................................70 Villager Prize Crossword.................................................................. 74 Summer Reads..................................................................................... 77 Useful Numbers.................................................................................. 79

How to Choose a Care Home

Get your business off to a flying start this year

Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £35.00 +VAT per month Editorial - Peter Ibbett, Solange Hando, Trevor Langley, Tracey Anderson, Kate Duggan, Jennie Billings, Leeds Day Solicitors, Caroline Knight, Matthew Carter, RSPCA, Katherine Sorrell and Ted Welford

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

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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. 3

History

From Wooden Shed

to St. Neots High Street Shop A photographer has been part of Market Town life since mid-Victorian times and many photo portriats of this era still survive in family collections. James Phillips started his business in a Cambridge Street wooden shed which burnt down in 1896. He then took premises in the High Street next to the Corn Exchange. In 1889 Ekins & Barker had a furniture and upholstery business with the upper floor room being used as a club room by the Liberal Association. The photograph is from 1902 The rear of the photograph card could be an art form in itself and an advertisement for the photographer. In this digital era there is still a liking for a professional photograph and St. Neots continues the tradition. The museum (free to locals) is always happy to add to its photocollection of past townfolk.

By Peter Ibbett 4

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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

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

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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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!

ey Trevor Langl

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6th July WINCHESTER OAP £28.00 Adult £30.00 Child £15.00

22nd July WOODBRIDGE & ALDEBURGH** OAP £25.00 Adult £27.00 Child £14.00

16th August COTSWOLDS JEWELS TOUR OAP £58.00 Adult £60.00 Child £46.00

8th July BLENHEIM PALACE OAP £43.00 Adult £46.00 Child £24.00 ADMISSION INCLUDED

25th July HASTINGS** OAP £28.00 Adult £30.00 Child £15.00

18th August BAKEWELL & CHATSWORTH OAP £45.00 Adult £47.00 Child £24.00 ADMISSION INCLUDED

11th July SOUTHWOLD** OAP £26.00 Adult £28.00 Child £14.00

27th July SANDRINGHAM FLOWER SHOW** OAP £37.00 Adult 39.00 Child £29.00 ADMISSION INCLUDED

13th July HEVER CASTLE** OAP £40.00 Adult £43.00 Child £20.00 ADMISSION INCLUDED

2nd August BROADSTAIRS** OAP £30.00 Adult £32.00 Child £16.00

26th August SOUTHEND-ON-SEA** OAP £25.00 Adult £27.00 Child £14.00

15th July – WEST END SHOW! THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG OAP £57.00 Adult £59.00 Child £47.00 ADMISSION INCLUDED

4th August WESTEND SHOW! TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL OAP £65.00 Adult £67.00 Child £55.00 ADMISSION INCLUDED

30th August ROMER** OAP £25.00 Adult £27.00 Child £14.00

18th July SHERINGHAM** OAP £24.00 Adult £26.00 Child £13.00 20th July CHARTWELL – NT** OAP £43.00 Adult £45.00 Child £23.00 ADMISSION INCLUDED - Discount for National Trust members.

9th August – A DAY OUT IN LONDON OAP £22.00 Adult 24.00 Child £12.00 11th August BRIGHTON** OAP £29.00 Adult £31.00 Child £16.00

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24th August SHREWSBURY & IRONBRIDGE OAP £29.00 Adult £31.00 Child £16.00

8th December STRATFORD-UPON-AVON VICTORIAN XMAS MARKET OAP £24.00 Adult 26.00 Child £13.00 20th December CHRISTMAS SHOPPING [OXFORD] OAP £22.00 Adult £24.00 Child £12.00

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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

The History of Instant Coffee

I thought instant coffee was a recent innovation, but it has actually been around since the turn of the last century. A chemist named George Constant Washington, developed and patented a coffee compound branded as Red E Coffee in the US. It was quite different to the instant coffee we know today, and a world away from fresh coffee. In the 1930s, the Brazilian coffee industry, wanted to develop a way to preserve excess coffee crops and experimented with liquid coffee extract. It was Nestlé, who pioneered powdered coffee, producing its iconic product in 1938. Instant coffee found popularity during the Second World War because of its a convenience and long shelf life, and the fact that it could be made anywhere without the need for a coffee machine. In fact, one year, the U.S. military bought more than one million cases of Nescafé, which represented a whole year’s output for the company! In 1963 Maxwell House developed a freeze-drying process which came to dominate the market and gave a taste more comparable with fresh coffee. The green coffee bean is first roasted to bring out flavour and aroma. The roasted beans are then finely ground and dissolved in water. This coffee solution is then dried by one of two methods: freeze drying, which is the removal of water by sublimation; or spray drying. These modern manufacturing methods have greatly improved the taste and solubility instant coffee, allowing better aroma and complexity of taste but it can never match the taste of the freshly ground variety. However, for convenience in a busy life, it’s an instant win! By Tracey Anderson

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Beauty

Active Ingredients It sometimes feels like you need a science degree to decode skincare ingredients lists. So we thought it was time to explain some of the most common active ingredients and why you might want them. Hyaluronic acid Hyaluronic acid helps skin to lock in moisture. By doing so, it makes skin plumper and softer, and smooths out wrinkles. If your skin feels dry, dehydrated or tight, you’d likely benefit from adding hyaluronic acid to your daily skincare routine. Don’t be put off by the name – hyaluronic acid won’t burn or irritate your skin. Niacinamide Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B3. It’s a real multitasker – keeping skin hydrated, improving texture and reducing redness, irritation and dark spots. It also helps to protect your skin and boost cell renewal. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) There are several types of AHAs, the most common being glycolic acid and lactic acid. They’re mainly used to exfoliate skin – removing dead cells to reveal brighter, smoother skin. Be warned though, AHAs can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so always wear sunscreen, even on cold and cloudy days. If your skin is particularly sensitive, you might want to stick to lactic acid, which is less likely to cause irritation. CBD (cannabidiol) CBD is extracted from hemp. It calms and balances the skin, reducing inflammation, redness and acne. It’s also an antioxidant, so helps to protect your skin from environmental damage. Retinol A form of vitamin A, retinol boosts cell renewal to make skin look brighter and fresher. It can

By Kate Duggan

reduce fine lines, scarring and sun damage. On the downside, it can cause dryness and irritation, so you’ll want to start off with a low concentration and work your way up. You’ll also need to combine it with a decent moisturiser and SPF. Vitamin C While vitamin C can’t replace sunscreen, it does helps to protect your skin from UV rays, pollution and other environmental factors. It also helps skin to heal, reduces dark patches and makes skin more radiant. Peptides Peptides are a type of amino acid. They boost collagen and elastin so can make your skin look firmer and plumper. Try these Looking for a great all-rounder? Try Olay’s new Vitamin C + AHA24 range. It combines Vitamin C, niacinamide and lactic acid to brighten and soften skin, increase hydration and reduce uneven pigmentation. The serum and moisturiser cost £34.99 each from www.boots.com and have been gathering rave reviews since they were launched earlier this year. Bad Habit’s Repair Mode AHA/BHA Active Night Serum (£20, uk.morphe.com) gently exfoliates your skin while you sleep. Along with several different types of AHA and BHA (beta hydroxy acid), it contains magnesium and various plant extracts to soothe, brighten and hydrate your skin.

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ACUPUNCTURE FOR WELL-BEING

Judy obtained her Licentiate in Acupuncture, and B.A (Hons) degree in Traditional Acupuncture, from the College of Traditional Acupuncture, Warwickshire. Judy is a passionate believer in the positive benefits, on both physical and emotional levels, that may be obtained from receiving acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture originated in China and other far eastern cultures where it still features in mainstream healthcare, both as a stand-alone therapy and in combination with conventional western medicine. Judy has been trained as a classical Five Element Acupuncturist; treatment is aimed at the root cause of your condition as well as your main symptoms. This approach helps with resolving your problem and enhancing your feelings of wellbeing. You may notice other niggling problems resolve as your main health complaint improves. Judy continues to pursue her belief in excellence of care for her patients in her role as a dedicated acupuncture practitioner, and is a member of the British Acupuncture Council. Please contact Judy for a free 20 minute consultation to discuss how acupuncture treatment can help you.

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Local News

Interested in Family History? Cambridgeshire & Huntingdonshire Family History Society can help. Just starting out and want to know how to build your family tree? Looking for that elusive ancestor and need assistance with where to go next? Come and see us or contact us through Social Media or via our website. Drop in Surgeries – Bring your brick walls or questions to us, even if they are not Cambridgeshire or Huntingdonshire related, held at the following areas: Ely Library, St Ives Norris Museum, Bar Hill Library, March Library, Cambourne Library Talks – Our ever popular talks can be seen in person (March & Huntingdon currently) or now live via Zoom. Great local topics and tips on taking your family history further back. Membership from as little as £7 a year, PLUS a website full of searchable databases and a large online shop full of CD’s and downloadable data to purchase. Our society has so much to offer! For full details on our research surgeries and talks please visit our website www.cfhs.org.uk

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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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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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Local News

Carers Week 2022 Carers Week 2022 is on the way from 6 to 12 June. The week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges people looking after a family or friend face and recognise the contribution they make to communities. The theme for Carers Week 2022 is ‘Make caring visible, valued and supported’. Caring Together have a range of activities, workshops and information sessions planned for throughout the week. There are also fun activities planned for young carers in the half-term week before Carers Week.

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If you look after a family member or friend, see how you can get involved. Find out more at caringtogether.org/news/carers-week-eventsactivities-countdown If you know of someone looking after a family member or friend who would benefit from support, please contact Caring Together on 0345 241 0954, at hello@caringtogether.org or see caringtogether.org If you would like monthly updates on the support available to carers, you can sign up to ‘inside news’ from Caring Together by going to caringtogether. org/keepintouch

Leeds Day

Wills and Probate at Leeds Day LLP

Without a Will your estate will pass to individuals under the rules of intestacy which may not reflect your wishes. It is, therefore, extremely important that you have a Will in place and review it regularly to ensure that your affairs are up to date. Similarly it also important to consider the issue of appointing individuals, whether that be friends, family or a professional, to look after your property and finances and health and welfare matters if you are unable to do so yourself during your lifetime. At Leeds Day we are dedicated to offering clients a simple, clear and effective service whether it be planning and safe guarding for the future or dealing with the loss of a loved one. We will guide you through the difficult months after a bereavement, help you to ensure that the wealth you have worked so hard to build up passes on to whomever you want to benefit, and if the day comes that you are unable to look after your own affairs that the person doing it on your behalf is someone you have chosen to do so. Leeds Day are pleased to welcome CLAIRE STURT to the Wills and Estate Planning team in the Huntingdon office. Claire has worked locally for another firm and also for a Cambridge firm and has 24 years of experience in advising clients on a variety of topics including wills, lasting powers of attorney, deputy applications and the administration of estates. Our Wills and Probate team also include, Minna Rae, Jane Ollett, Taranjit Sohansoha and Niamh Mackenzie-Johnson. The team deals with wills,

Huntingdon Godwin House, George Street, Huntingdon, PE29 3BD T: 01480 454301 30

Claire Sturt

the administration of estates, powers of attorney, deputy applications, trusts and law relating to elderly clients. We give specialist advice with a view to protecting family wealth. We offer a personal, friendly and sympathetic approach to assist you in planning and managing your affairs most effectively in a wide range of situations. If you need any advice in relation to any will, estate planning or bereavement matter then please contact Leeds Day on 0844 567 2222 or email wills@leedsday.co.uk

St. Ives 11 Station Road, St. Ives, Cambridgeshire PE27 5BH T: 01480 464600

St. Neots Xenus House, Sandpiper Court, Eaton Socon, St. Neots PE19 8EP T: 01480 474661

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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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Finance

Get the best deal Savvy spenders know to use comparison sites for many personal finance and related services, but making the most of such sites isn’t always easy. Here are some top tips for getting the best deal while saving time. INSURANCE Insurance is arguably the king of the comparison site, thanks to years of memorable ad campaigns. Getting comparisons makes sense for most forms of insurance, whether you’re a first-time customer or your policy is coming up for renewal. It doesn’t just save time going to individual sites, but reduces the need to keep typing in the same details about the cover you require. Counter-intuitively, it can make sense to try multiple comparison sites rather than just one. Both the policies and prices on offer can differ slightly across different comparison tools, so a little extra time could get you a better deal. The good news is that once you’ve run a search on a site, it will usually store your details and send you a reminder next year, letting you run a new search without having to type everything in again. It’s also worth checking insurers that make a point of not being available through comparison sites, most notably Direct Line, as they may have better deals. If you’ve got even more time to spare, check out cashback sites. You’ll need to check terms and conditions carefully, and be certain what you are

signing up for, but they can work out to be a better option when you crunch the numbers. Occasionally you may get a cashback bonus that makes it a better option than going for a cheaper base price through a standard comparison site. On the other hand, don’t get too caught up in comparison sites that offer deals such as cheap cinema tickets or meals out. These often have tight restrictions and you may overestimate how much use you’d actually make of these ‘rewards’. Think of them more as a tiebreaker if two sites have similar prices for a policy. UTILITIES Sadly, gas and electricity supply is no longer an area where price comparison tools have much purpose. At the time of writing, the cost of wholesale gas (which also affects electricity production costs) is so high that suppliers have little incentive to offer deals cheaper than the government-imposed price cap. Without a crystal ball it’s impossible to predict future price movements, but it’s hard to see any supplier offering a sustainable fixed-price deal that’s below the price cap any time soon. The only real exception is power supplies to businesses where, unlike with consumers, there’s no price cap. Using a specialist business energy-comparison tool still makes sense. BROADBAND, TV, MOBILES One area where people may overlook comparison tools is broadband, television and mobile phone

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services (particularly for those who own a handset outright). If you get your internet through a phone line rather than a cable network such as Virgin, you should be able to switch supplier with virtually no disruption, so even a small saving can be worthwhile. Specialist comparison tools work particularly well with premium TV services, which can be confusing to navigate. Both Sky and BT offer channels in some form through their own TV provision, through Virgin cable, and through streaming-only deals, so comparing all the options can be much simpler via comparison sites. MORTGAGES Mortgages may seem like an obvious area for comparison sites, but they usually aren’t a perfect option. That’s because whether a particular provider will offer a loan, and on what terms, will vary significantly between individual customers. It’s certainly worth checking out a couple of price comparisons, but think of them more as a rough guide to whether buying a property in your desired price range is affordable rather than a way to choose a deal. In many cases, using a mortgage broker makes sense, particularly if you have any special circumstances such as a poor credit history or being self-employed. A good mortgage broker won’t just look at prices but

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will also give you a much better idea of which lender will be likely to accept or reject you. This reduces the risk of a vicious circle where a failed mortgage application means you have multiple credit checks on your credit record in a short period, each making you less attractive to lenders.

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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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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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Under Pressure

Special Report

Which pressure washer should you buy? By Matthew Carter If you’ve been thinking about buying a pressure washer but aren’t sure where to start we have some tips. Pressure washer size is determined by the pressure it provides rather than the physical dimensions of the washer. Pressure Washer Size Guide: Light duty: 100 bar / 1,500 PSI and below - use for cars, bikes, garden furniture, bins, and outdoor play equipment. Medium duty: 100-200 bar / 1,500-2,800 PSI - use for fences, lawnmowers, gutters, sheds, walls, decking, patios, and driveways. Heavy duty: 200+ bar / 2,800+ PSI - use if you have large, dirty walls, decking, patios, or a long driveway. Water Flow Rate (WFR) - The water flow rate is measured in litres per minute or hour. High WFR + high PSI provides very efficient cleaning and rinsing capability. Water Butt Connectivity - A water butt connection will allow you to purchase a compatible accessory that will connect your pressure washer to your water butt.

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This means that you can use the rainwater collected in your water butt for pressure washing, which saves you money and is kinder to the environment. Extra features to consider - These will determine how easy your pressure washer is to use – consider wheels, hose length, and cord length. Most pressure washers will come with a selection of attachments such as interchangeable wands, nozzles, brushes, and detergents. But you can also buy specialist accessories. Caution - Be careful with windows; especially old ones because the pressure might be too strong for the pane causing it to crack. Some pressure washers have adjustable pressure settings, and a lighter pressure setting may be suitable for cleaning windows but check the manufacturer’s instructions.

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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Technology

Cutting-edge technology The high-tech way to mow your lawn Every year we ask the same question: are robot lawnmowers affordable yet? And every year the answer gets a bit better. At the time of writing, the extremely impressive Flymo EasyLife 500 GO has dropped from £649 to £550, which is a lot for a lawn mower but not a lot of money for one that’ll do the mowing for you. The Flymo is not the cheapest one around: the Yard Force Compact 400Ri is currently £385. It has a 20V battery and a 16cm cutting width, and it’s designed for lawns of up to 400 square metres. The Flymo can handle slightly bigger lawns of up to 500 square metres, but while there’s also an 800-square-metre model, it’s £300 more expensive. The big benefit here is convenience, of course, but that convenience does cost you: there are lots of cordless human-controlled mowers for less than £200, with more premium models such as Bosch’s EasyRotak 36-550 coming in at £350 to £400. Those mowers tend to have much bigger cutting widths and more height adjustment, and they can handle

bigger batteries too: the 36V battery in the Bosch delivers more power and better battery life than the smaller blocks in robot mowers. Cordless strimmers are cheaper still: well-known brands such as Black and Decker and Bosch come in at under £100, while some less famous brands come in at under £50 for similarly specified strimmers. It’s worth taking the battery system into account here, so, for example, the batteries that go into a Bosch or Black and Decker strimmer are interchangeable with the firms’ cordless power tools, including other garden tools. That means one battery can be used across multiple products, which can be bought in battery-free versions to save you money. The big downside to any cordless tools is that sooner or later the batteries run out. You can address that by having an extra charged battery handy, or you could go for a corded device instead. Bosch’s Rotak 32R is a solid option for smaller gardens at £89, while its EasyGrassCut strimmer is just £32.

Yard Force Compact 400Ri EasyGrassCut

Bosch’s EasyRotak 36-550

Flymo EasyLife 500 GO

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Interiors

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,

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.

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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Motoring

First drive: is Suzuki’s new Vitara ‘Full Hybrid’ worth considering?

Ted Welford tests Suzuki’s new hybrid version of its Vitara crossover. What is it? Suzuki was one of the first manufacturers to introduce a mild hybrid, but its full or plug-in hybrid systems came from a partnership with Toyota. The compact Vitara SUV is the first model with the brand’s in-house-developed hybrid system. What’s new? This new Vitara powertrain uses an adapted 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor and battery, but it gets no other changes except for a new ‘Eco’ driving mode. What’s under the bonnet? The 1.5-litre engine is connected to a 140V lithium-ion battery and inverter. The stats are unimpressive, with the combined setup providing just 113bhp and 138Nm of torque – the mild-hybrid version gives 127bhp and 235Nm of torque. Accelerating to 60mph takes 12.5 seconds, while Suzuki claims a top speed of 111mph. The Vitara Full Hybrid has good fuel economy with a claimed 53mpg and low 121g/km CO2 emissions in frontwheel-drive form. What’s it like to drive? At 2.5 seconds slower to 60mph than the standard car and with a powersapping six-speed automated manual gearbox, it hasn’t much going for it. A few positives include a return of close to 50mpg in steady driving, and it’s comfortable enough. How does it look? Suzuki hasn’t changed the Vitara’s looks and it remains an appealing and sturdylooking choice. There are some bright colours with a contrasting black roof for quite a smartly-styled SUV. It sits noticeably higher up than rivals like the Ford Puma and Renault Captur.

What’s it like inside? The Vitara’s interior has standard Suzuki switchgear and a cheap tablet-like touchscreen that is functional and easy to use. The leather and suede-effect seats on top-spec cars look and feel good, though the same can’t be said for all the cabin materials. There’s limited space, with the boot measuring just 289 litres. Avoid the top-spec SZ5 if you have rear passengers as the panoramic glass roof reduces headroom. What’s the spec like? Equipment levels are good, with the SZ-T featuring 17-inch alloy wheels, climate control and the touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and satellite navigation as standard. Safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control and blind-spot and rear cross-traffic monitoring. Upgrade to the SZ5 for panoramic sunroof, suede seat upholstery, front and rear parking sensors and an option of all-wheel drive. The Vitara Full Hybrid starts from £25,499 – £1,750 more than the mild hybrid – and rises to just short of £30,000 for a top-spec all-wheel-drive car. Verdict - The main weakness of this new Suzuki Vitara Full Hybrid is that the standard car is better in most areas. This hybrid model is less powerful, much slower, more expensive and not as nice to drive as the mild-hybrid Vitara, thought it’ll be slightly cheaper to run. If you like the Vitara, which you should as it’s well-equipped, looks good and offers great value, choose the mild hybrid, though it only has a manual gearbox. Consider a Ford Puma or Skoda Kamiq if an automatic is a must.

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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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Shire Roofing

Quality above all

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Codeword 1

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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. 60

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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.

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

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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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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Time of Year

Summer Loving

In praise of the romantic comedy

For me, watching a rom-com is a lot like eating a whole tub of Ben and Jerry’s. You know you shouldn’t; you’ll probably feel slightly queasy afterwards, but it feels so good in the moment. They are perfect summer watching. You do have to accept the limitations; it’s no good looking for clever subtext or the meaning of life here, and you have to be ok with cliché…actually you have to fully embrace it because cliché is the lifeblood of the rom-com. For example, most characters in rom-coms work in advertising or journalism in a big city. Occasionally a doctor or a vet is allowed to be a main character, but the chances are at least one of the leads is trying to make a deadline or win a contract. There’s the ‘will they, won’t they?’ part of the storyline, and even though we know they inevitably will, it’s important when they meet for the first time, that there’s friction, or preferably intense dislike between the leads. Usually, this revolves around a car accident, or a situation where one of them acts uncharacteristically like a jerk. There is an unwritten rule that if one of the characters is a doctor or a vet they will inevitably be a ‘country’ doctor, or a ‘country’ vet and the big city journalist or advertising executive will learn salutary life lessons from their sweet, super sensible country ways...and there’s generally a community fete or barn dance where the chemistry begins. There are always ditsy / drunk / geeky / obnoxious / sensible-but-plain / seriously hot-but slightly dim / totally dysfunctional-but-loveable <delete as applicable according to the plot> best friends or

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family members. These characters are there for their comedic value and they are always endearing, even the obnoxious ones. Then there is a PROBLEM (capital letters intentional) for the couple to overcome. One of them isn’t who they say they are, or there’s a misunderstanding where one thinks the other is married / involved in fraud / a murderer. Basically, the relationship is ALWAYS entered into under false pretences by one or both parties in a rom-com. These false pretences may be real or entirely imagined but they will always cause a PROBLEM, usually exacerbated by a wellmeaning and aforementioned best friend or family member. Finally, there is a chase as one of the leads, driven to rash action by the PROBLEM, rushes off to take a new job in another country. Usually, the chase scene ends with a kiss in the rain...or a fountain... or a river. For some reason water features large in rom-com resolution scenes. Oh...and the guy nearly always apologises even if the woman was in the wrong. Because rom-com rules dictate this...possibly because women are the target audience. I know ALL this, and I still love rom-coms. Here are some great examples to discover or revisit this summer. The Wedding Planner Crazy Rich Asians 27 Dresses There’s Something About Mary My Big Fat Greek Wedding The Wedding Singer My Best Friend’s Wedding

Special Report By Tracey Anderson

Is there such a thing as a mid life crisis? We’ve all heard the term ‘mid-life crisis.’ But what is it exactly? The psychoanalyst Elliott Jaques first suggested the concept in in 1957. He hadn’t completed any research though, basing his assertion solely on a few autobiographies of famous men. He declared that that men in their mid-30s go through a depressive period when they contemplate their mortality for the first time. Jaques didn’t include women in this sweeping statement, citing the menopause, claiming it “obscured” women’s midlife transitions! Gail Sheehy then popularized the idea in the 70s. She based her assertions on rudimentary research from Yale, involving just 40 male subjects. In spite of this small sample, she confidently stated that the midlife crisis starts in the 40th year and ends at 45 ½, which seems oddly specific. More recent research suggests that we all go through three to five major transitions in our lives, some voluntary and some involuntary. They might be personal, including serious illness, major career change, birth, or divorce, or they might be due to external factors such as a housefire, bankruptcy, death of a close family member or a pandemic. It can take five years or more to completely work through just one of these transitions so we could each spend 30-50% of our lives in transition. It makes a lot of sense therefore to learn some strategies for dealing with change. First, accept that things change. Try not to fight or resist, and don’t go into denial. Acknowledge the change and lean into. Embrace the fact that although not all change is bad, even positive change brings stress. A new baby is joyful, but stressful, even if you planned for it. The same goes for starting a new business.

During transition periods it helps to stick to routines. Go for a walk or a run every day; make time to watch your favourite TV show, play five aside or practice your piano…whatever gives your life structure. These routines act as anchors to remind us that some things are still the same, and they give our brains a chance to recharge. Eat healthily. Stress can make us crave comfort food, or alcohol. Concentrate on buying and eating healthy foods but allow a few treats too. Exercise even if you don’t want to. Walking at a brisk pace clear’s your mind and bathes your brain in feel-good hormones. Have plenty of early nights. Set a regular bedtime and stick to it. Regular sleep really does refresh you and help you think more clearly. Find a support group. This can be a formal group, such a bereavement group, or the informal support of a few good friends or family members. No-one can do everything alone. Asking for help is a mature, sensible approach to coping with transition.. Be proactive about changes. What can you do to make the transition happen more smoothly? Write the steps down you need to take and work through them one by one. When you look back you’ll be surprised how far you’ve come. Most transitions even positive ones, involve a grieving period for the old life, where we come to terms with what we’ve lost or given up; a period of readjustment, which might seem chaotic, when we change habits, shed relationships, learn new skills, maybe even move house or continent; followed by a new beginning, where we can finally see a clear path ahead of us. We can’t ignore transitions and we can’t will them away. When we learn to deal with change we can accept it, embrace it, and use it to move forward in our life.

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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:



Tel:

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Summer Reads

Books 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. 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

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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Five Minute Mum: On the Go Daisy Upton

Summer holidays are just around the corner. If you’re already wondering how you’re going to keep the kids out of your hair, this book might help. The focus is on easy-to-set-up activities to do outside the house, from games for the train to craft challenges for family gatherings. There’s even a page of ideas for making the most of sugar sachets and serviettes at service stations.

Feel Better In 5: Your Daily Plan to Feel Great for Life Rangan Chatterjee

Many of us go on a health kick at the start of the summer. We aim for major changes, struggle to stick to them and then beat ourselves up (and reach for another biscuit). Rangan Chatterjee’s plan is decidedly easier to stick to. Five-minute practices, three times a day. One for your heart. One for your body. And one for your mind. He also gives top tips for creating better habits and getting to the root of what’s holding you back.

Twelve Secrets Robert Gold

Fed up of ‘churn them out’ crime series? Looking for a fast-paced, intelligent thriller with twists and turns aplenty? Take a chance on Robert Gold’s debut – Twelve Secrets. The main character, Ben Harper, is an investigative journalist pushed into taking a fresh look at a crime he really doesn’t want to explore – the murder of his brother ten years before. It seems that in Ben’s tight-knit community, everyone has something to hide. Gripping.

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Cambs June 2022

Articles inside

Summer Reads

Villager Prize Crossword

What's On in June

Summer Loving

How to Choose a Care Home

Under Pressure

BBQ Steak with Chimichurri Dressing

Choosing Garden Furniture

Get the best deal

Active Ingredients

Five reasons to visit Sardinia

Is it time to try tennis?

The History of Instant Coffee

From Wooden Shed to St Neots High Street Shop

Wills and Probate at Leeds Day LLP

Carers Week 2022

Interested in Family History