Cambridge September 2018 by Villager Mag

VILLAGER The

Issue 113 - September 2018

and Town

Life

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

In this issue Win a family ticket to

Southlake Aqua Park Men, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

Win £25

in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People in

Buckden, Brampton, Godmanchester, Eaton Socon, The Hemingfords, Grantchester and all surrounding villages every month

ur Yo EE FRco1py

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Inside this issue... 19

Pondering Podcasts Victorian Peddler’s Successful High Street Shop...............................4 The History of Suffrage.....................................................................4 Win tickets to Alice in Wonderland The Ballet................................10 Win a Family Ticket to Southlake Aqua Park...................................12 Help Transform the Lives of Older People in St. Neots.....................15 Luxembourg...................................................................................16 Pondering Podcasts........................................................................19 Flavours of the Punjab....................................................................20 Indian Summers.............................................................................22 Light Up the Night for Cancer Research UK.....................................25 How to Look a Million Dollars.........................................................27 Vascular Disease.............................................................................28 Why Parents Need to Appoint Guardians for their Children............30 The Zumba Phenomenon...............................................................32 Quirky Britain.................................................................................34 Impact of Parental Disputes on Children........................................36 To Infinity and Beyond...................................................................37

How to Save and Make Money at University...................................38 Men, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention..................................40 A Host of Golden Daffodils..............................................................42 Wonderful Window Boxes..............................................................44 New Term New Tech.......................................................................47 R.A.T.S. Rehoming Appeal..............................................................49 Animal Queries...............................................................................51 Children’s Page...............................................................................52 History’s Most Famous Hybrids.......................................................55 Bedfordshire Steam and Country Fayre 2018..................................56 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe.........................................................58 Puzzle Page....................................................................................60 What’s On.......................................................................................62 Is Your Pet in Pain?.........................................................................64 Life Begins.....................................................................................66 Small Spaces..................................................................................69 Sofa, So Good!................................................................................71 Prize Crossword..............................................................................74 Book Review..................................................................................78

Small Spaces

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, Catherine Rose, Solange Hando, Sarah Davey, Trevor Langley, Kate Duggan, Jennie Billings, Centre for Complementary Health, Leeds Day Solicitors, RSPCA, Tracey Anderson, Kate McLelland, Hannah Byatt, Tony Larkins, Ann Haldon, Alison Runham, Rachael Leverton, Pippa Greenwood, James Baggott and Nick Coffer

Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com Photography - RambleOn Design and Artwork - Design 9 Tel 07762 969460 • www.design9marketing.co.uk

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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History

By Peter Ibbett

Victorian Peddler’s Successful High Street Shop

High Streets over the nation are under pressure from an increasing change in consumer habits and spending power. St. Neots is keeping ahead of the national trends, partially due to ‘grass roots’ independent shops run by enterprising individuals or families. St. Neots has never been short of of characters such as John Franks who was born at Roxton in 1837. This remarkable man started life as a peddler, carrying a basket of goods round the villages on foot. By 1884, he was advertising in Wyboston as a furniture dealer, and he was also hiring out tents. By 1887 he had moved his business to St Neots and taken over 7 Market Square. From this shop, in which he sold furniture, he developed a very successful business, and by 1890 he was able to purchase property at the eastern end of the south side of St Neots High Street. This property had consisted of five small houses, the

front rooms of which had been in use as small shops. The houses were pulled down, and rebuilt as the large premises which he opened in 1897 with huge discounts on furniture and bedding, and all goods delivered free in his own vans. The c1900 advertising card photograph gives an idea of the range of stock carried. Later on in 1918, the shop and business were bought by John Hall & Son, House Furnishers, from Grantham. On March 13th 1920, the death was announced of John Franks at his home, Cressener House, St Neots, aged 83 years. The business still was trading as John Franks & Co until April 1921, when adverts in the local press announced ‘Clearance Sales’ of the entire stock in trade, as the business had been sold, and so ended the name of a remarkable business man. In 1922, Frank Brittain, moved from his premises at 25 High Street to 58-60 High Street. The firm is still here carrying on the great tradition of furnishing stores on the High Street site. Visit St. Neots Museum to find out more about the folk who have given the town a thriving commercial life. Entry is free for locals. Thanks to the St. Neots History Society newsletters for the information on John Franks.

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History By Catherine Rose

The History of Suffrage This year marks the centenary of the first Representation of the People Act. We all know something about Emmeline Pankhurst and her suffragettes who chained themselves to railings and endured force-feeding in prison, but how did a movement that changed the course of history begin? In 1918, after years of battle by the suffragette movement in which women were routinely arrested, assaulted and even lost their lives, legislation was passed giving certain women the right to vote in public elections. The legislation allowed home-owning women aged over 30 to have a say at the ballot box. This meant that for the first time 8.4 million women could vote, but

many working class women continued to be excluded. It wasn’t until 1928, with the second Representation of the People Act, that this right was extended to all women over 21. Sadly, Emmeline Pankhurst, founder of the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU), did not live long enough to see this historic day but Emmeline wasn’t the first to argue for women’s right to vote. In 1865, The Kensington Society was founded, which campaigned for the higher education of women who, at that time, were excluded from many academic institutions. The society also formed a committee to head a petition for the

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enfranchisement of women, which MP John Stuart Mill agreed to present to Parliament. Mill was a champion of women’s rights who campaigned in vain for an amendment to the 1867 Reform Act that would have given equal rights to women, and in 1869 presented an essay to Parliament entitled The Subjection of Women. By 1866 there were nearly 1,500 signatures on the petition, including that of Florence Nightingale, but although presented to Parliament on three separate occasions, each time it was out-voted and the whole notion scorned and ridiculed, as many men believed women were physically and mentally inferior and did not possess the intelligence to vote. In 1868, the first public meeting to discuss women’s suffrage took place in Manchester. Two of the speakers were Lydia Becker, who had been inspired by the Kensington Society petition, and Dr Richard Pankhurst. Among those in the audience was Emmeline Goulder who was then 15 years old. She went on to marry Dr Pankhurst and become the woman who would take suffrage to the next level. By 1903, women had been campaigning peacefully but unsuccessfully for the right to vote in England for 50 years, while other countries such as New Zealand, South Australia and some states in the US had already enfranchised women over 21 before the end of the 19th century. It was in this year that political activist Emmeline Pankhurst founded the militant organisation WSPU. A breakaway group from the National Union of Women’s Suffrage Societies, originally founded by Milicent Fawcett to encourage peaceful protest, the WSPU’s motto was ‘Deeds not Words’, which reflected their decision to turn to direct confrontation, even if that broke the law, to get their message across. Alongside noisy demonstrations, they threw stones, defaced property, committed arson and even set homemade bombs to make the authorities pay attention, although their focus was always on causing damage, not loss of life. Emmeline Pethick-Lawrence, the co-editor of the suffrage magazine Votes for Women, came up with the three colours that went on to define the movement: violet, green and white, with violet representing loyalty, white purity and green hope. These colours were used in the suffragettes’ Votes for Women flags and banners.

It was a Votes for Women flag that was unrolled in one of the first confrontations between Christabel Pankhurst (Emmeline’s eldest daughter) and Annie Kenney with young Liberal politicians Winston Churchill and Sir Edward Grey. The women had interrupted a political meeting to ask the politicians if they thought women should have the vote, but when both men refused to answer the women began heckling them. They were arrested and, refusing to pay the fine, went to prison. And so began a regular cycle of arrests and imprisonment for the suffragettes. Once in prison, the women would go on hunger strike and were violently force-fed. This caused a public outcry so the Government, led by Prime Minister Herbert Asquith, keen that they should not engage public sympathy but equally keen that they should not die in prison as martyrs, brought in what became known as the ‘Cat and Mouse Act’. Force-feeding was stopped, and the women became weaker – but at the point when it looked as though they might die in prison, they were released. This had the added ‘bonus’ that they were too ill to take part in campaigning and demonstrations. When they had regained their strength, they would be re-arrested. Emmeline Pankhurst herself was a frequent victim of the act. Emmeline encouraged her suffragettes to learn jiu jitsu in order to defend themselves in the inevitable skirmishes that occurred with the police and other members of the public. The suffragettes had many supporters, including men. Henry Selfridge of the famous department store refused to press charges against a suffragette who broke his shop windows and flew the WSPU flag above his store. Other MPs such as Keir Hardy and George Lansbury also supported them. In 1914, the year after suffragette Emily Davison was killed under the hooves of the King’s horse Anmer at the Epsom Derby, the First World War broke out. Emmeline decreed that there was to be no more militant activism while women helped with the war effort. It is a little-known fact that working class men also benefitted from the 1918 Representation of the People Act as before this, men who did not own property were not allowed to vote either. Thanks to the suffrage movement, 5.4 million working class men also obtained a voice.

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THE ALL-NEW FORD FOCUS AVAILABLE TO ORDER AT T.C.HARRISON FORD

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Win Two Tickets to The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland The Ballet

Dive down the rabbit hole and follow Alice as she travels on a classical ballet adventure through the mysterious and captivating world of Wonderland. Join the Mad Hatter’s tea party and meet the White Rabbit, the Caterpillar and the Cheshire Cat, as we paint the roses red in a magical retelling of a classic tale that will captivate the imagination of audiences both young and old. This is a bespoke ballet choreographed for the Cambridgeshire Youth Ballet Company by artistic director and Royal Ballet trained dancer, Saskia Lockey. Sat 27th October 2018 Performance at 4pm Sun 28th October 2018 Performances at 1:30pm & 6pm Hinchingbrooke Performing Arts Centre, Huntingdon, PE29 3BN BOX OFFICE Tickets: £16 (£13.50 concessions) 01480 223331 www.thelittleboxoffice.co.uk/swevents

Cambridgeshire Youth Ballet Company

Now in its fourth year, The Cambridgeshire Youth Ballet Company offers exceptional training and performance opportunities to talented young dancers aged 8 to 18 years from across Cambridgeshire and the surrounding areas. Cast members rehearse once a week in St Neots and use the experience to enhance their existing dance training. The Company will be auditioning for new members in Autumn 2018. To find out more and to register your interest visit www.cybcompany.co.uk

Competition

CAMBRIDGE YOUTH BALLET COMPETITION ENTRY Name:



To enter, complete the form below and send to: Cambridge Youth Ballet Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP. The winner will be picked at random. Deadline: 16th September 2018 The winner can choose which date they wish to attend.

Tel: Email: Address: 10

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The Swiss Garden at Night Thursday 25 October – Friday 26 October

As part of the Museums at Night event, the Swiss Garden is pleased to open its gates for two evenings in October and show off its lovely collection of trees, shrubberies and architectural features in an entirely new light. See magnificent cedars, ancient oaks, ponds, bridges and rustic buildings beautifully highlighted, and re-visit Lord Ongley’s lamp-lit Regency garden, which so impressed contemporary visitors that it was described as a ‘fairyland’ in the 1830s.

£10 per adult, £3 per child and £24 per family (2 adults, 2 children)

www.shuttleworth.org/garden-at-night

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01/08/2018 10:35:32

Win a Family Ticket to Southlake Aqua Park

A short trip down the A1 on the border of Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire will lead you to a beautiful blue lake nestled amongst Cambridgeshire’s latest, greatest… and wettest attraction, Southlake Aqua Park. The Park contains everything you can imagine, from giant slippery slides and bouncy balls to inflatable obstacles and climbing walls. Amongst the obstacles you will find children and adults alike getting wrapped up in the Park’s fun challenges and hilarious mayhem. Britain’s weather is, as everyone knows, hit and miss, however, full body wetsuits can be hired, keeping you comfortably warm in all weather scenarios. If you fancy keeping dry while your little ones let off some steam, then you can enjoy a nice cup of tea or coffee and other nibbles, while over-looking the lake. The facilities are remarkably dry, very clean and easy to access. Parents and guardians can rest assured that their loved ones will be in a safe environment as the Aqua Park hosts at least four, fully trained and professional life-guards at any one time. The safety briefings are concise and easy to understand, allowing everyone to have the maximum amount of fun throughout their session. Southlake Aqua Park is open from 10am to 8pm, 7 days a week with free parking available on site. Our affordable admission costs make this wet and wild activity the perfect day out for all ages six and above. Booking in advance is strongly advised due to the Park’s popularity, to do so please call 07527 007568 or visit southlakeaquapark.com To enter simply answer the following question correctly and send your entry by 16th Sept 2018 to: Southlake Aqua Park Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

SOUTHLAKE AQUA PARK COMPETITION ENTRY For a chance to win a family ticket to Southlake Aqua Park simply answer the question above, complete your details below and post your response by 16th September 2018 to: Southlake Aqua Park Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP. Answer Name:



1. In which county is Southlake Aqua Park situated?

Address:

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A GREAT DAY OUT STARTS WITH US...

TAKE A GUIDED MILL TOUR

Come and learn more about our historical Victorian Mill Museum, during an insightful guided tour.

NEW

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SELF-GUIDED TOURS

Tours are available from Tue – Sun at 11.30am and 2.30pm, Adults £5 (with Gift Aid £5.50), Children under 16 are free entry. Advance booking is required, please call 01767 603940 or visit www.jordansmill.com.

WHY NOT FOLLOW US ON:

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Jordans Mill, Holme Mills, Langford Road, Broom, Nr Biggleswade SG18 9JY / Call: 01767 603940

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Coach the

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Sundays 12-3pm

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Local News

National Charity Calls Out for Tea Party Hosts and Drivers to Help Transform the lives of Older People in St. Neots With many older people in St Neots suffering from loneliness, Contact the Elderly, the UK charity dedicated to tackling isolation among people aged 75 and over, is urgently appealing for anyone who is able welcome a small group of people into their home, café or restaurant for a tea party, just one Sunday afternoon a year. The charity aims to relieve the acute loneliness experienced by older people who live alone by organising free monthly Sunday afternoon tea parties for small groups within local communities. Each older guest is taken to the volunteer host’s home or venue by a volunteer driver, where they join a small group for tea, chat and companionship for a couple of hours. The monthly gatherings exist as a vital lifeline of friendship for the charity’s older guests. Being a host requires a commitment of just a couple of hours, once or twice a year, and anyone who has a downstairs toilet, easy access to their home or

premises and a good sized teapot is eligible. We also need drivers to collect older guests. Anyone who can spare a couple of hours one Sunday a month has a driving licence, a car, and a capacity for drinking tea, is eligible to volunteer! Contact the Elderly’s National Support Officer Jo Hobson, said: “We’re committed to offering a lifeline of friendship to the oldest and loneliest people, but this lifeline in St Neots is currently under threat due to a real shortage of volunteer hosts in the area. Our volunteers genuinely get as much out of the experience as our older guests, so I’m calling for anyone who is interested in giving something back to their community to please get in touch with us as soon as possible.” Shrewsbury residents interested in becoming a volunteer host for Contact the Elderly once or twice a year can contact Jo Hobson on 01568 605022 or email Jo.Hobson@contact-the-elderly.org.uk or Mobile 07591 228 333

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Travel

Luxembourg ‘Expect the unexpected,’ they say, and compact as it is, this is a truly surprising city, looping around its natural and man-made wonders on many different levels. Carved by the deep gorges of the Pétrusse and Alzette rivers, it teeters on the edge of precipitous cliffs, spanned by myriad bridges and viaducts. In this dramatic setting a good place to start is Constitution Square, where above the valley of the Pétrusse the iconic statue of the ‘Golden Lady’ holds out a crown of laurel leaves as a national emblem for pride and peace. Just steps away the mighty Aldolphe bridge towers above the ravine, where the tiny rivulet meanders among flowering trees, pocket-sized allotments, dainty footbridges and deserted trails. Wandering through this lush country-like oasis you can hardly believe you are in the city centre, but back on the top the cathedral beckons, a three-spired pilgrimage site in flamboyant Gothic style with a touch of Renaissance, guarding the tombs of the Grand Ducal family. It’s only a stroll to the Parliament House, the Grand Ducal Palace and the bourgeois dwellings and picturesque lanes of the Old Town, listed by Unesco. There are spacious parks and pleasant town squares, most popular the Place d’Armes surrounded by pedestrian shopping lanes. Named after military parades held under the Sun King, the locals call it ‘the city’s living room’, a place to

meet friends on a café terrace, relax under the trees, browse the market stalls or dance on festival days. Along Holy Spirit Street, the square by the same name has some stunning views across the lower town, close to Quirinus, the 11th century chapel with a miraculous spring, and the hidden confluence of the Pétrusse and the lovely Alzette which curls around the eastern edge of the city. There, above the Alzette, the Chemin de la Corniche was described by a local writer as ‘the most beautiful balcony in Europe’ lined with some of the finest aristocratic buildings, following the old ramparts all the way to the Bock, the rocky outcrop where history began in 963. Towers, citadel, gates, fortified bridge, casemates with 23 km of tunnels hewn into the cliffs: lords and masters left their marks over the centuries but today, on the banks of the Alzette, the Lower Grund is the most enticing district with its quiet lanes, half-timbered houses and at the heart of it all the striking Neumünster Abbey, now turned into a cultural centre. There are some delightful walks along the river, all shimmering reflections as weeping willows whisper below the garden terraces and a mini vineyard. But close to the airport, the Kirchberg plateau is a totally different world, a 21st century celebration dedicated to business, finance, European institutions and art in dazzling architectural styles. Top of the list are the Modern Art Museum (MUDAM) and the Philharmonie Concert Hall which claims three auditoriums. Luxembourg is indeed a city of many faces, the enduring capital of the last Grand Duchy in the world, traditional, vibrant and truly unique.

By Solange Hando

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Education By Sarah Davey

Pondering Podcasts

Can podcasts help our GCSE students? By the time you read this article the first lot of students who sat GCSEs under the new system (Grades 9-1) will have received their results. At the time of writing no-one knows how they will have fared. The consensus from teachers seems to be that the new syllabus and grading system requires a lot more breadth and depth of knowledge, and in some subjects and classes students and teachers struggled to get through the syllabus in time to allow for revision and consolidation before the exams. As parents we want to help our young people achieve their goals, but it can be hard to know where to begin, especially if your child is struggling in an area you know little about yourself. Enter the era of podcast-learning. Most teens are familiar and comfortable with podcasts and online audio platforms such as Spotify. Well there are now podcasts on every subject from maths to Spanish and many of them are free or cost a fraction of what a private tutor might set you back. The BBC are revamping their BBC Bitesize platform (bbc.com/education) to reflect the content of the new exams. The podcasts are short and offer a mix of text, audio and occasional video clips. Most importantly they are free to all students with access to a PC. (Some of the content does not work well on a smartphone.) Mr Allsop History (mrallsophistory.com) is a free History revision website created by University of Cambridge History graduate and current teacher Scott Allsop. It’s comprehensive and he updates it regularly. There are useful sections on revision skills

and exam techniques. There are also paid-for platforms like Audiopi (audiopi.co.uk) This is an educational resource created by teachers, examiners and academics. It aims to inspire GCSE and A level students with their coursework and revision. They produce exam board –specific audio tutorials for English Literature, English Language, History, Biology, Religious Studies, and Science so far. You can purchase access to one subject or a whole range of subjects for around £5 per month. They even offer a free trial. One of the most comprehensive platforms is GCSEPOD (gcsepod.com) These are engaging, well thought-out, easy-to-understand podcasts which even tailor their content to specific exam boards. They get the balance between ‘understandable’ and ‘enough depth’ just right. The good news is that some schools subscribe to this on behalf of their students so check to see whether your child’s school offers this useful resource. Don’t panic if they don’t because you can subscribe as a parent. Access to the full range of subjects will set you back around £200 for the year, but contrast that with private tuition and it looks very reasonable indeed. One of the most fun (and free resources) for science students is The Naked Scientists (thenakedscientists. com). Their primary aim is to strip science down to its essentials. While not specific to any curriculum it’s an addictive way to gain insight into any difficult-tounderstand parts of the syllabus. As our teens move towards their GCSEs hopefully these podcasts will provide them with useful and empowering tools for learning.

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Food and Drink

Flavours of the Punjab Punjab is located in northern India. Having one of the oldest cultures in the world, the region has a lot of very interesting history. The cuisine is highly favoured, globally.

Southall is a district of west London. From the 1950’s the South Asian community began and grew in Southall. Many well-known personalities, from musicians, through authors, poets, plus television, films and more, have connections with Southall. Multi award-winning Brilliant restaurant is one of Southall’s oldest restaurants. During the 1950’s celebrity chef and author Dipna Anand’s grandfather founded the Brilliant brand, operating a restaurant and hotel in Kenya, then, also, a catering business. Following a move to the UK, during 1973, the Brilliant restaurant was opened at Southall, to great acclaim, in 1975. Starters include Tandoori Chicken with Punjabi spices steeped through garlic yoghurt, roasted in the clay oven, which is extremely popular. The Brilliant Tandoori Mixed Grill, plus Seafood are regular selections, for many, too. Main courses offer a range that includes Palak Lamb, Chicken Curry (Half or Full Bowl), Masala Fish in a spicy Kenyan Masala and Vegetable Keema, for example. Various rices and breads are available, to accompany dishes. Desserts have Eton Mess, Gulab Jamun, plus Kulfi ice-creams and more. World-class wines/drinks offer something for all palates and complement the cuisine, splendidly. Onwards, the long-awaited and much-anticipated next venue opened in Chelsea, during February 2018. Chelsea is located in south-west London and has been home to numerous characters of note, past and present, over many years. Dip in Brilliant by Dipna Anand offers sensual Punjabi cuisine and immediately gained praise from food critics and customers, alike. The menu includes Sea Bass, Chicken and Lamb dishes, amongst impressive choices. All dietary requirements can be catered for, plus parties and occasions accommodated, at Brilliant. Cookery courses, run by the restaurant, are very popular. Private banqueting and gift vouchers are available, too. Dipna Anand is an ambitious restaurateur, expanding a welltried formula from the long-established restaurant, based in Southall. Brilliant Punjabi cuisine – Absolutely! www.dipna.com Brilliant Restaurant 72-76 Western Road, Southall, Greater London UB2 5DZ Tel: 44(0)20 8574 1928 www.brilliantrestaurant.com

Dip in Brilliant 448-450 Fulham Road, Chelsea, London SW6 1DL Tel: 44(0)20 3771 9443 www.dipinbrilliant.com

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

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Health & Beauty

Indian Summers Summer may be on its way out, but there’s still time to enjoy the last of the warm weather and lighter evenings. If you want to keep your bronzed goddess look going for as long as possible, try Isle of Paradise’s Self-Tanning Drops (£19.95). Just add a few drops to your usual moisturiser, serum or body lotion for a natural looking tan that lasts. The drops are available in three different shades – light, medium and dark, and the more drops you add, the deeper the tan. The drops even include a colour-corrector to help even out skin tone and reduce redness. See www.isleofparadise.co.uk. Add some definition to that tan with a bronzer and highlighting powder. W7’s Life’s A Beach Highlighter Trio (£7.95) offers both, plus a light blush, in one handy compact. Find it at The Perfume Shop, TK Maxx and at www.w7cosmetics.co.uk Hair feeling a bit dry and sun-damaged? Try Philip Kingsley’s Moisture Balancing Shampoo (£19) and Conditioner (£22). Designed to boost moisture without making hair greasy, the duo also adds shine and helps to detangle. They certainly help to control my frizzy mop, even on days when I don’t have time to blow-dry or straighten my hair (which is most days to be honest). They’re best for fine to medium textured hair. If you have coarse, curly or afro hair, try Philip Kingsley’s Re-Moisturizing Shampoo & Conditioner instead, from www.philipkingsley. co.uk

When it comes to budget beauty brands, it’s hard to beat Barry M. Every product I’ve tried so far could give the luxe brands a run for their money. The British brand also has great ethical standards, including being crueltyfree since their launch in 1982. At the moment, I particularly love the Feature Length Mascara (£4.99). It gives you long-lasting colour and longer-looking, defined lashes, with no clumping. I’m also a fan of the Sunset Daylight Curing Nail Paint and Topcoat (£4.99 each), for gel-look nails that stay chip-free for days on end. I get sent a lot of free beauty products to try, but Barry M is one of the brands I happily spend my own cash on. Barry M is available from Superdrug and online at www.barrym.com Looking for a new body wash but not keen on the overly-floral or fruity fragrances on the high street? Try Neal’s Yard’s Create Your Own Hair & Body Wash (£6.50). On its own, it’s very gentle, natural, suitable for sensitive skin and fragrance-free. If, like me, you prefer your products lightly fragranced, just add a few drops of essential oil* to the mix. Try: • Lavender, chamomile or bergamot to relax • Rose, neroli or geranium to lift your mood • Pink grapefruit or ylang ylang to give you a boost • Frankincense, sandalwood or lemongrass to destress See www. nealsyardremedies. com (*Some essential oils are not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.)

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Local News

Cambridge to Light Up the Night

for Cancer Research UK Men, women and children in Cambridge are being urged to walk all over cancer as Cancer Research UK launches an exciting new fundraising event in the city. Cambridge has been chosen to host Cancer Research UK’s Shine Night Walk for the first time, on September 15. The 10k walking event will see people of all ages and abilities uniting through light to raise money for life-saving research. People are invited to sign up now and choose to raise money for the area of cancer research closest to their hearts. Participants can choose to support one of 12 different areas of scientific research. These include prostate cancer, testicular cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, brain cancer, children’s cancers and leukaemia. Or they can simply give their backing to Cancer Research UK’s overall work. The Shine Night Walk starts at the Cambridge Institute at 7.15pm and participants will take to the city streets in a fun and inspirational parade of light. Gill Burgess, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Event Manager, said: “We’re delighted to bring Cancer Research UK’s Shine Night Walk to Cambridge for the first time. We hope the whole community will unite behind this special, emotional event on September 15. “The atmosphere on the evening promises to be unique as the community unites in the fight against the disease. It’s a special opportunity for people

to come together to remember loved ones lost to cancer or celebrate the lives of those dear to them who have survived. “The battle against cancer never stops. We need everyone to sign up and start fundraising as soon as possible, to fund research that will bring hope to people affected by the disease.” One in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some stage in their lives, but the good news is more people are surviving the disease now than ever before. Cancer survival in the UK has doubled since the early 1970s and Cancer Research UK’s work has been at the heart of that progress. By taking part in Shine Night Walk Cambridge, participants will be making a real difference to local men, women and children who face the disease. Every day, around 90 people are told they have cancer in the East of England and around 33,600 people are diagnosed in the region each year. Cancer Research UK is also calling on local men and women to help spread the word about Shine Night Walk before the big day to encourage as many people as possible to enter, as well as helping at the event. Volunteers will gain practical, hands-on experience in event marketing, working with people from all walks of life, while contributing to a seriously worthwhile cause. To enter Shine Cambridge, visit shinewalk.org

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Jill Dighton BSc (Hons) MBACP (Accred)., UKCP Reg.

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ACUPUNCTURE

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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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House of Colour

How to Look a Million Dollars 1. Invest wisely in a wonderful coat, a bag with clearly defined lines and shape, good sunglasses and boots that will last years. Choose better quality over larger quantity every time. 2. Never dress sloppily even when you are dressing casually. Avoid creased clothes, missing buttons, faded colours, completely monochrome outfits, bobbles on wool and clothes that fit poorly! Instead choose fabrics that scream quality and express your personality through cut, pattern, colour and the character of your clothes. 3. Wearing colours that don’t suit you will always look cheaper because they won’t suit the tones in your skin pigment. Learn which colours suit you and then make considered colour combinations. The same goes for style. For example, if an asymmetric hem doesn’t suit your body shape and style personality then it will always look wrong, no matter how gorgeous the dress or skirt. 4. Cheap looking jewellery should be avoided, but you don’t have to spend a fortune. If you find jewellery that suits your skin tone and is of good quality, it can add so much to your look. Silver metal jewellery suits summer and winter seasons and gold tones suits autumns and springs. Semi-precious jewellery also adds an air of class to any dressy outfit. 5. People unintentionally associate detail with style and affluence and that detail could be anything from clean fingernails to the crease in your trousers. Even your watch and smartphone cover should be considered. Always wear polished and well-fitting shoes. 6. Every man should have at least one well-cut suit. Visit designer outlets to get a fashion-forward, good investment. A cutting-edge suit says you look professional and have integrity and that

10.

you mean business. Hi-trend suiting should be avoided for business unless you are in a very creative environment or role. At work look at what senior management wears and then redefine by adding your own subtle style. Add your perfect coloured tie or a chic scarf and bag to add kudos. Having a great skincare routine is vital to providing the perfect base for your make up. It should go without saying to be well groomed. No one looks a million dollars if their beard is unkept or their nail varnish is peeling off. Elegance can be found in wearing the right neckline. Being stylish is wearing the right length trousers for men and the right length hemline for ladies and accessorising with a beautiful quality belt. Underwear that is not visible and fits properly can make an outfit look sculpted. Use velvet, lace and animal prints wisely. Many of us can wear animal prints only as an accessory, such as a silk scarf or as shoes. Make the effort to keep your clothes and accessories in good condition for example keep hats in boxes, use wooden coat-hangers and always fold jumpers and cardigans.

By Jennie Billings Style and Colour Consultant at House of Colour www.houseofcolour.co.uk/jenniebillings jennie.billings@houseofcolour.co.uk

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Complementary Health

Vascular Disease Vascular disease is the collective term for diseases of the arteries, veins and lymphatics. Every part of the body to which blood flows can be affected by it. It’s as common as cancer and heart disease and accounts for 40% of deaths in the UK, many of which are preventable. Vascular disease is not fully understood, but once it occurs it is not possible to reverse or stop it from occurring. We do however know what the main risk factors are that speed up the process of atherosclerosis (the build-up of fatty material called atheroma within the artery walls causing them to narrow) and make some people more likely to develop this condition. These are: Smoking, Diabetes, High Blood Pressure High Cholesterol, Diet and weight Vascular disease can also be a hereditary condition, so if you have a history of the disease in your family, please discuss this with your GP. If you’re over 40 years old, you are entitled to a free health check, which is carried out by your GP or practice nurse. Based on the results of your health check, your GP or nurse will advise you on what you can do to keep your heart and circulation healthy. Your GP will also consider whether you need to take medicine to protect your heart and circulation. STOP SMOKING - Smoking is the worst enemy of vascular disease and can increase the likelihood of developing the disease by 400%. It is very rare to find someone with arterial vascular disease who has not smoked at some stage during their life. It increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes and lower limb amputation. It can be hard to quit, so getting support is important. Your GP can give you advice on how to give up, and information on stop-smoking services, nicotine-replacement products, and medicines to help you stop smoking. EAT HEALTHY - Eating a healthy diet can reduce your chances of developing vascular disease. A

balanced diet can not only keep your weight, cholesterol and blood pressure under control, but it can also prevent against fatty deposits building up in your arteries. It can also reduce your risk of getting Type 2 diabetes. Make sure you include plenty of fruit, vegetables and starchy foods, like wholegrain bread, pasta and rice, and reduce the amount of saturated fat, salt and sugar you include in your diet. • Fruits and vegetables – There is good evidence that eating at least five portions of fruit and veg a day can lower the risk of vascular disease. Why not sign up to the Change 4 life Fruit & Veg Boost and receive FREE recipes, useful hints and tips and shopping advice! • Fats – We all need some fat in our diet; it is a good source of energy and provides essential fatty acids which our bodies cannot make themselves. However, eating too much saturated fat, can raise the level of cholesterol in your blood and increase your risk of vascular disease. Try cutting back on the total amount of fat you eat and replace saturated fats with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. • Salt – Eating too much salt can raise your blood pressure. By reducing the amount of salt you consume you can lower blood pressure and reduce your risk of vascular disease, heart attack and stroke. EXERCISE - Exercise is key to vascular health too. Exercise keeps us all fit and healthy, and for patients with vascular disease it can be particularly important. Patients with peripheral vascular disease can improve their symptoms and ability to mobilise, by undertaking a specific exercise programme. Patients who require an operation, both major and minor, can improve their recovery rate by being fitter and healthier beforehand. Could this be the right time for you to increase your level of exercise? Start with simple goals, and slowly build up your own exercise regime. To get an indication of your potential risk and for pointers on how to minimise them, please try out the vascular risk checker. It only takes a few minutes to complete. Visit: www.circulationfoundation.org. uk/risk-checker

Centre for Complimentary Health Web: www.CentreForCompHealth.com Email: info@CentreForCompHealth.com Phone: 01480 455221

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Leeds Day Solicitors

Are you a parent with children below the age of 18? Why parents need to appoint guardians for their children We all hope that we will be able to take care of our children throughout their childhoods but what if the worst happens? Although most people appreciate that it is important to make a Will in order to deal with financial matters, for the parents of young children it is perhaps even more important to make a Will as this provides an opportunity to appoint guardians for them. In the event of the death of the parents of a child, it will usually be family members who will step in to take responsibility. But what if for some reason those family members are unsuitable or unwilling to help. Grandparents may feel unable to assume responsibility full time and other close relatives may live many miles away. This may mean children being uprooted and moving to another part of the country at an already very distressing time. Family members may also have responsibilities of their own which would make it difficult for them to step into the role of guardian. The choice as to who should take responsibility for your children, like any other important decision regarding their welfare, should be made by you as their parent. So, who can appoint a guardian? If you have â&#x20AC;&#x153;parental responsibilityâ&#x20AC;? for a child, you can appoint a guardian for them to act in the event of your death. Where a child is born to married parents, both parents will have parental responsibility. Where parents are unmarried,

only the mother will automatically have parental responsibility but a father can acquire parental responsibility. For example, for births after December 2003, a father named on the birth certificate will also have parental responsibility. Parental responsibility can also be acquired in other ways such as by entering into a legal agreement or by Order of a Court. Where a parent has parental responsibility, appointing a guardian is quite straightforward in that a clause can be included in your Will. You can also consider the appointment of substitute guardians in the event that your first choice of guardians is unable to act. In any event, it is of course important to make a properly drawn up Will to ensure that whatever money or assets you leave are available to provide for your children as they grow up. Normally money and assets will be held for the benefit of your children by the executors and trustees of your Will. Your children are very precious and with a little careful planning you can make sure that if the worst happens you have made suitable arrangements for their care. If you have not made a Will before and wish to do so or if you wish to update your existing Will please contact us at Leeds Day on 0844 567 2222 or by email at wills@leedsday.co.uk or visit our website www.leedsday.co.uk

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Fitness

The Zumba Phenomenon Last week I attended my first Zumba class. I know I am several light-years late to the party but I really wish I’d got there sooner. The music; the energy; the sheer joy of being part of a diverse group of unselfconscious women (and a couple of men) all body-rolling, fist-pumping and booty-shaking in time. It was infectious and I was hooked. Zumba isn’t just a fitness craze; it’s an international business with more than 12 million enthusiasts in its classes. A whole industry has developed around it. There are Zumba classes, DVDs, CDs, video games and clothes. Zumba began in Columbia back in the 1990s. A dancer and choreographer named Alberto Perez forgot his regular music for his aerobics class. The story goes that he searched his backpack and pulled out some salsa and merengue tapes. The rest as they say, is history. Today Zumba has certified instructors in more than 125 countries around the world. For many members of my class it was their first taste of Latin music and dance steps. Yet while Zumba has brought Latin rhythms and steps to the exercise enthusiasts of the world it is not Latin dance. Each class uses salsa, cumbia, bachata, and other Latin and international rhythms and there is plenty of overlap between Zumba and salsa

By Tracey Anderson

classes; but there are plenty of differences too. For example, a Latin dancer would know that you never start a step on the right foot in Salsa - it’s not proper technique - but Zumba is an exercise class so students need to work both legs! Latin dancers can be quite scathing of Zumba, but Kerrie, who teaches my Zumba class thinks that’s a little unfair. ‘I studied Latin American dancing and ballroom,’ she says, ‘ I think that perhaps Latin dance is undergoing the same sort of transition that yoga did when it gained popularity. Fitness instructors who studied dance, and dance students who then trained as fitness instructors borrowed freely and combined elements from both genres.’ Authentic or not, Zumba has been raised the profile of Latin dance. Dance studios that offer Zumba classes say they are always packed to capacity, which can’t always be said for the regular dance classes. As it morphs and evolves, Zumba may be moving away from its Latin roots and this will annoy some people. ‘There will always be purists,’ says Kerrie, ‘But there’s room for everyone. It’s all about being healthy while having fun isn’t it?’ I don’t think anyone could argue with that.

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Quirky Britain

By Kate McLelland

Um, sorry, but why are we Brits so polite? “Err … excuse me, sorry, but … um, I’m afraid you’re standing on my foot.” The British have politeness written into their DNA. Nowhere else in the world will you find people so ready to put up with discomfort rather than be considered pushy or rude. How it started is a mystery. The British, as we all know, are a pretty pugnacious lot. We value forthright leaders such as Sir Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher and count the ruthless King Henry VIII and buccaneering sailor Sir Francis Drake amongst the nation’s favourite historical figures. Nowadays the likes of Jeremy Clarkson, JK Rowling, Boris Johnson and Lily Allen are celebrated for their outspoken views, and yet we average Brits are apparently so fearful of causing offence that we remain tight-lipped even when we are subjected to discomfort or inconvenience. If someone is thoughtlessly blocking our way, we say “excuse me” as if it were our fault, and if we receive grudging service in a restaurant, we’ll not only say “thank you”, we’ll probably even leave a tip. Another classic British trait is our talent for understatement. Our tendency to underplay everything was famously demonstrated during the Korean War, when embattled British soldier Brigadier Tom Brodie of the Gloucester Regiment reported to an American superior officer, General Robert H Soule, with the fatal words: “Things are a bit sticky, sir.” He meant that his men were facing an imminent and terrible defeat, but the General’s interpretation was that despite some difficulties, the

Gloucesters were successfully holding the line. Unsurprisingly, this miscommunication resulted in huge numbers of British soldiers being killed, wounded and captured. Media personality Stephen Fry, dubbed ‘the most polite man in Britain’, admitted to BBC presenter Mark Lawson: “Being over-polite is not attractive … I can’t watch someone not saying thank you, and I can’t not say it myself. If I noticed I hadn’t said it, I’d have to come back in the room and say ‘thank you’. It’s feeble!” If Stephen Fry – an icon of good manners – dislikes over-politeness, what will become of the rest of us? Will we eventually ditch this quintessentially British behaviour in favour of a more direct (some would say more honest) approach? It doesn’t seem as though this will happen any time soon. A report published by research company Childwise looked at the way children interact with the artificial intelligence bots in devices such as phones and tablets. Researchers found that children were barking commands at their robotic helpers without using “please” and “thank you” and concluded that this behaviour might encourage them to become aggressive in later life. In response to Childwise’s findings, Amazon has now included a politeness feature (known as ‘Magic Word’) in its Echo Dot software and it’s likely that other tech companies will follow Amazon’s lead. With robots getting in on the act, it’s unlikely that we’ll forget our “pleases” and “thank yous” in future. In fact, as the technology develops, it may even become easier to tell a stranger that he’s standing on your foot: simply get your unfailingly polite robot to speak to him for you.

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Finance

How to Save and Make Money at University

One of the trickiest but most important parts of university life is managing your money. Budgeting for food, clothes, nights out, books and study materials can be overwhelming at first, but there are ways you can help yourself. Here are a few tips to help you spend less, save more, and earn money at university, so you can stop worrying about finances and make the most of this precious time in your life. Ways to save money at university Make use of technology All you need is your mobile phone to save money as a university student. There are apps to help you save on food, that show you how to budget, and that keep an eye on your data usage. Keep your food costs down by making a list of your favourite ingredients, and an app will let you know the cheapest places to buy them locally. You can also track your expenses with a budgeting app. Just type in how much you spend each day, and what you’ve bought – at the end of the month, a report gives you a round-up of where your money is going, so you can adjust your spending if necessary. Learn how to cook Learning how to cook from scratch is a valuable skill for life, but as food is one of the highest student expenditures, it’s also a vital part of saving money. Apart from the extra cash in your pocket, you can still be sociable without the expense of eating out,

By Ann Haldon

impressing your friends with a few gastronomic delights. It’s a good idea to plan your meals ahead and only buy what you need each week, avoiding ready meals if possible, as although they’re convenient, they’re generally bad for your health. Also, stick to buying own-brand products that can usually be found on the lower shelves in supermarkets, where you might not normally look. Ways to make money at university Get a part-time job Retail, catering, and hospitality are just three areas where you could pick up a part-time job with fixed hours that fits in with your studies. Although you may need to forsake some evenings and weekends, payday could make it worthwhile to miss out on a few social occasions. Another idea for part-time work, and one that’s a little more flexible, is mystery shopping. You sign up with a mystery shopping agency, or directly with an independent company, and get paid for checking the level of service provided in their outlets. Promotion work and flyers Handing out flyers around campus and promoting club nights or events on the streets of your university town can earn you some extra money, but be sure to find out whether you’re working on a commission or a ‘per hour’ basis. If you’re sociable and good at marketing, you could even apply to become an on-campus ‘brand ambassador’ for a household brand name. You might be able to organise your own promotions and events for the brand, and make a name for yourself in marketing. www.blackbullion.com/studentblog/2018/05/08/5-tips-to-make-your-loan-lastlonger/ www.blackbullion.com/student-blog/2017/11/30/ how-to-make-money-while-at-university/ www.blackbullion.com/student-blog/2017/09/28/ how-technology-can-help-you-budget-and-save/ www.savethestudent.org/make-money/best-paidonline-survey-sites.html www.oncampuspromotions.co.uk/for-students/

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Health Alison Runham ww.alison.runham.co.uk

Men, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Suicide is on the rise worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, it’s the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds and nearly 800,000 people die due to suicide every year; that’s one suicide every 40 seconds. There are also around 20 times as many failed attempts. These worrying statistics make World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10th more important than ever – but there are steps we can take to tackle the problem.

Suicide Risk Factors Men are at significantly higher risk than women and suicide is the leading cause of death among men under 50. Statistics from The British Psychological Society show that men aged 20-29 and 40-49 are most at risk. The Movember Foundation, which works to raise awareness of men’s health issues, has concluded that men’s reluctance to openly

discuss their health and feelings or take action when they’re unwell, coupled with the stigmas still surrounding mental health, are two of the chief reasons why men’s life expectancy remains significantly lower than women’s. The damaging stereotype of the physically and mentally ‘tough’ ‘real man’ is to blame for much of men’s reluctance to express their feelings and seek help, as they fear being labelled weak. The biggest risk factor for suicide is a previous suicide attempt, but what drives people to attempt it? The WHO points out that while there are clear links between suicide and mental disorders (including alcohol use disorders), many suicides happen impulsively in moments of crisis. A trauma, relationship break-up, financial problems or chronic pain and illness can cause high levels of stress that may suddenly overwhelm us and seem too much to cope with. Experiencing conflict, disaster, violence, abuse,

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or loss and a sense of isolation are also strongly associated with suicidal behaviour, and suicide rates are also high amongst groups who experience discrimination, such as refugees, migrants, indigenous peoples, prisoners and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people. So, what can we do to prevent suicide on a personal level and as a society? Suicide Prevention • We need to tackle discrimination and damaging stereotypes. The boy who is brought up to believe he mustn’t cry or admit he’s stressed; the girl who hides her true sexual orientation because she’s grown up hearing gay people ridiculed; the migrant shunned by work colleagues – they’re all at higher risk of isolation and depression, and so at higher risk of suicide. It can be tough to tackle this kind of discrimination among family, friends and colleagues, but it’s important we do so. • We need to tackle the stigmas surrounding mental health. We can do this by challenging negative attitudes and ensuring that in our words and actions, we treat mental illness as just as valid and important as physical illness, acknowledging how closely they are related. Maggie Warrell, founder of Global Courage, recently wrote for Forbes about losing her brother to suicide and the role we must all play

•

in tackling it. “If people felt as comfortable talking about their PTSD, bipolar or anxiety as they did talking about their eczema or tennis elbow, it would markedly reduce the suffering of those with mental illness and the ability of those around them to support them.” We need to encourage people, especially men, to express their feelings, seek help with mental health issues and be more aware of the dangers of alcohol and its misuse. Depression and alcohol-related disorders need to be identified and treated as early as possible. “The tragedy of suicide is preventable,” states The British Psychological Society. “Early identification and effective action can get people the care they need.” We need to pay closer attention to those around us. Many suicide victims were reportedly ‘fine’ just days or even hours before ending their lives, so we should look out for warning signs. If we fear someone we know may be contemplating suicide, we need to get help on their behalf – and take the horribly practical but essential measure of removing, as much as possible, any potential means for suicide, be that a stockpile of pills or a means to fatally injure themselves.

If you are struggling with a crisis or a mental health issue, do get help. It may feel like your pain will never end, but things can get better, as bestselling author and depression sufferer Matt Haig reminds us in Reasons to Stay Alive. “Smaller than you. Always it is smaller than you, even when it feels vast. It operates within you; you do not operate within it. It may be a dark cloud passing across the sky, but… you are the sky. You were there before it. And the cloud can’t exist without the sky, but the sky can exist without the cloud.” Useful Info Samaritans: www.samaritans.org call 116 123, open 24/7 every day Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – for men www.thecalmzone.net 0800 58 58 58 open 5pm - midnight every day Matt Haig, Reasons to Stay Alive, Canongate Books. Many people who have suffered depression and/or contemplated suicide credit this book for helping them through crises.

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Garden View

By Rachael Leverton

A Host of Golden Daffodils Garden centres, nurseries and catalogues are full of daffodil bulbs now. I have to exercise supreme self-restraint every time I wander in! I think I get asked more questions about daffodils than any other plant, apart from roses. I think it’s because they are ubiquitous in the spring and so we assume they are easy to grow. They are... and they aren’t, so I’ll answer the most common questions I get asked here. I think the question I get most is ’How do I get my daffodils to flower more than one year?’ It’s a good question. It’s tempting to think that the only thing you have to remember about planting daffodil bulbs is to set them pointy side up, but it’s a bit more complicated than that if you want them to flower every year. The trick is to set them deep enough. If you plant them just below the surface, as so many of people do, they dry out, which means they lack the food and moisture to get them through until the following year. The result is an uninteresting clump of leaves rather than a host of golden daffodils. You can plant daffodils any time now, to the end of October. Sooner is better. The next question I get asked a lot is, ‘What’s the difference between daffodils and narcissi?’ This is also a good question. All daffodils are

narcissi, but not all narcissi are daffodils! ‘Daffodils’ is the name we give to narcissi with large trumpets. The third question I’m often asked is, ‘How far apart should I plant the bubs? They should be planted about 3 inches / 8cm apart in holes about 10 inches / 25cm deep. It looks deep when you are dropping them in but it’s worth the effort for the repeat flowering. Choose the biggest firmest bulbs you can find for each variety. The final question I get asked is, ‘When can I cut down the foliage after flowering?’ I would suggest waiting for 6 weeks. If you have a very small garden and can’t bear to have untidy foliage lying around you might be better treating the bulbs as annuals (daffodil bulbs aren’t generally expensive.). Or you can plant them in an aquatic basket, and after flowering you can dig the basket up, water the bulbs regularly then replant in the autumn. Alternatively, you can buy dwarf varieties of daffodil which have daintier flowers and foliage, so you can have pretty flowers without the resulting foliage posing a problem. Whatever you decide, remember plant deeper than you think and…

Happy Gardening

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Garden

Wonderful Window Boxes As summer fades into early autumn, it can be sad to see beds, borders, pots and planters look a little worse for wear, so why not treat yourself to some late summer and early autumn colour in a pot, planter or, better still, a window box? With styles ranging from woven willow to classic hardwood and urban chic aluminium, in all sizes and colours, there is plenty of choice – but make sure it will fit easily on to the window sill and won’t be too heavy! Some of my favourites plants to use are hardy Gerberas (these do need a good warm, sunny spot), variegated ivies and the wacky, compact Crassula with fleshy foliage and dusky pink flowers. But take time deciding on the combination that makes YOUR heart sing. Some window boxes have impermeable liners, in which case add an inch or so of horticultural grit or gravel to provide drainage, so if you do overwater (or it rains too much) the excess water will be less likely to sit around the roots and cause the plants to suffer or die. To keep weight to a minimum, use broken up polystyrene from bedding plants or the packaging around household appliances instead of the grit or gravel. A good quality multi-purpose compost is perfect for a temporary planting like this, but if you intend to replace your plants with other hardy, seasonal stunners later in the year, then a 50:50 mixture of a loam-based compost and a multi-purpose one allows for better stability from the weight and texture of the loam, combined with better aeration and drainage from the multi-purpose

compost. Fill the window box about half full, gently firming it, but don’t compact it or the plants won’t get their roots down so well. Next, get the plants into position. Trailing plants like variegated ivies should be placed to cascade over the edges of the window box – this looks fantastic and adds to the apparent size of the display without adding significantly to the weight of the container. A larger plant like the Crassula gives a good focal point and flanking gerberas (for example) will add colour. Gently move the plants until you’re happy with how they look, then fill in gaps between the root balls with more compost, firming gently with your fingers to ensure there’s no subsidence later on. Then water well using a watering can with the rose in place, so imitating rainfall. A stunning window box can be created in under half an hour. Make sure it is secured properly on the window sill – and that you can open the window (or access the box from outside) to keep it adequately watered. The window box will benefit from occasional feeding with high-potash feed and of course will need to be regularly deadheaded! Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood. com and you’ll find some great gardening items: Nemaslug, green controls for leatherjackets, chafer grubs, ants and greenfly, plus garden plant supports, raised bed kits, Easy-Tunnels, gardening tools, Grower Frames, signed books and more! Or why not book Pippa for a gardening talk?

By Pippa Greenwood www.pippagreenwood.com 44

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New Term Tech

Technology

Get your child’s next computer for less

From clothes to computers, the cost of sending your offspring to school, college or university seems to increase every day. So how can you be sure you’re not spending more on technology than you need to? The trick is to get the maximum bang for every buck – and sometimes that means avoiding false economies. A cheap laptop may save you a few pounds now, but it might not be able to cope with everything your child needs it to do; for example, a Chromebook laptop may be ultra-cheap but if your child’s going to be using it instead of a TV its small screen isn’t going to be a lot of fun. The sweet spot for budget laptops is around the £300 mark, and if you go much below that you’ll be cutting corners. It’s often a better idea to shop around for a second hand laptop on Gumtree or eBay (if you’re careful: stick to reputable sellers and make sure you follow the buyer protection policy so you’re protected against

any shenanigans) – a powerful laptop that’s been well looked after for a year or two may be a better buy than a brand new, super-cheap laptop. That’s particularly true of Apple laptops. The cheapest Apple laptop, the MacBook Air, is currently £949 and isn’t particularly powerful. If you’re considering any Apple device, the first thing to do is to investigate whether your child qualifies for an education discount (www.apple.com/ uk-edu/shop/go/education). If you or your child qualify, the discounts can be significant. Another option is to consider a refurbished Mac. Refurbished computers are computers that have been sold and then returned. Sometimes that’s because of a fault that has since been corrected or because a customer simply changed their mind; sometimes it’s because the laptop was leased to a company and returned after the lease period is up. Whatever the reason, it can’t be sold as new.

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That can mean good discounts even on fairly new computers. It’s important to understand the key differences between new and refurbished computers. They ship without faults but may have damaged or missing packaging, and they may have light cosmetic damage on their case. The warranty is much shorter, and any AppleCare insurance you take out will run out on the anniversary of the date the Mac was first sold, not the date you acquired it – so for example you won’t be able to buy AppleCare for a refurbished Mac that’s three years old. As you’d expect, the older the Mac the bigger the discount – and if you’re a confident eBay buyer you can save even more. For example, at the time of writing a reputable eBay seller is offering a refurbished late 2014 MacBook Pro with 13” Retina display for £650. That’s a lot of money, of course. But the current 13” MacBook Pro starts at £1,249 and the refurbished one is good for several years yet.

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Rehoming Appeal

Local News

Sox and Gemini

Sox and Gemini are 15 months old and are brother and sister. Sox is a tabby and white male and Gemini a dark tortoiseshell female. They are neutered, microchipped and have â&#x20AC;&#x153;Vaccinations for Lifeâ&#x20AC;?. Both are very friendly, playful and love to be fussed. Gemini can be a little shy when she meets people for the first time. They both have lovely easy-going personalities. They are very affectionate with each other and we would like to find them a home where they can stay together. They are have not lived with either children or dogs previously. Sox and Gemini will make lovely pets and if you would like to find out more about these beautiful cats, please contact Liz on 01767 681157. Alternatively, please e-mail Philippa at info.rats@gmail.com who will be pleased to forward your enquiry on to the team. View other small mammals, dogs and cats currently in our care for rehoming on our website: www.rats-animalrescue.co.uk or facebook: www.facebook.com/ ratscharity. You can also see photographs and details of the animals in our care in our charity shop in Hitchin Street, Biggleswade SG18 8AX. Open Monday to Saturday from 10.00 am until 4.00 pm.

Tim Brown 01767 627532 bedford@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com

BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS A Very Brown Hedge Indeed Aphids are one of the most common and troublesome of all garden insect pests. They attack a large number of garden plants throughout the country and are recently causing much disfigurement to ornamental conifer hedges. Commonly known as Greenfly and Blackfly, these aphids feed on hedges, sucking the sap of the plant and can spread several viruses, causing severe dieback. Cypress Aphid is currently troublesome and pre-dominantly affects conifer hedging. Damage inflicted on conifer hedges by the aphid Cinara cupressi is severe and can lead to large brown patches on the hedge. This leads to localised foliage death, reducing the aesthetic look of the hedge. As the aphid is active from May to October it is important to catch this problem early and apply treatments to stop its spread. At the first sign of brown patches call us for a free consultation and professional advice.

Tree & Shrub Pruning l Planting l Tree Removal l Stump Grinding l Hedge Cutting Health & Safety Reports l Disease & Insect Control

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Pets

Animal Queries

Dear RSPCA vet, My friend is a farmer and he’s scared me by talking about something called fly-strike that can be fatal in sheep. He says I should be careful with my pet rabbits – is this true? Hassan, Kempston Dear Hassan, I’m afraid, your friend is correct. Fly-strike (also known as Myiasis) is when flies lay their eggs on a rabbit’s skin (usually around the bottom). The eggs quickly hatch and the maggots chew their way into the rabbit’s skin. This can happen within hours and can very quickly become fatal. This is particularly common in the warmer summer months so it’s vital that owners always check their rabbit’s bottom twice daily, and every time you pick him up. Any rabbit can get fly-strike but the risk is highest for rabbits with dirty bottoms, wet fur or wounds. If your rabbit often has a dirty bottom you may have to change his diet. To avoid this horrible problem, keep your rabbit’s

living quarters clean and dry: flies are attracted by damp, smelly conditions. If any rabbit becomes quiet and listless, or appears restless and shows signs of discomfort, pick them up immediately and check for eggs or maggots. If you do find maggots, don’t just try and clean him yourself – telephone your veterinary practice IMMEDIATELY. Fly-strike is a true emergency – day or night – and treatment cannot wait. As long as it doesn’t delay your trip to the vet, pick off any visible maggots with tweezers. Do not dunk the rabbit in water as fur in the affected area may need to be shaved and wet fur clogs the clippers. Flystrike is a very serious condition and is, sadly, often fatal. However, rabbits can make a full recovery if the condition if found and treated quickly. Flyblown rabbits are usually in pain and severe shock, and need skilled veterinary and nursing care.

ANIMAL QUERIES is one of a series of articles brought to you by the RSPCA Bedfordshire North Branch www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk

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Motoring

History’s Most Famous Hybrids Hybrids have been around since just after the Big Bang, and since then matter has been combining into hybrids – at first to form atoms, then elements and compounds and the building blocks of life. Hybrids are all around us, and even inside us – humans are 60 per cent water, itself a hybrid. Some hybrids have even changed the world… CENTAUR

These half-human, half-horse hybrids were dreamed up by the Ancient Greeks, probably as a reaction to their first encounters with nomads on horseback. PIZZLY BEAR

Found in zoos since the Eighties, this cross between polar bears and grizzlies was found in the wild in 2006, with DNA tests confirming it was a hybrid: white like a polar bear but with a grizzly’s face, along with brown paws and big claws. TOYOTA PRIUS

It’s over 20 years since Toyota launched the Prius, the world’s

first mass-produced hybrid vehicle and one of the most important cars of all time. When it first came along, few thought that – one day – even supercars would be fuelled by a mixture of petrol and batteries. The Prius, now in its fourth generation, has sold over four million units. BLOODHOUND SSC

The Bloodhound SSC, the 1,000mph car, combines a jet engine with a cluster of rockets. In all, it has about 135,000 thrust horsepower, more than eight times the power of all the cars on the F1 grid combined. It will need 40 litres of rocket oxidiser for every second of its top speed run in South Africa next year. WATER At 1,260 trillion million litres, water is the world’s most abundant compound (a chemical hybrid of two or more elements). Only 2.5% of this is fresh water, and in a 100-year period, a single water molecule spends 98 years in the sea, 20 months as ice, about two weeks in lakes and rivers, and less than a week in the atmosphere. CHIMERA EMBRYO

In genetics, a chimera is a hybrid organism with cells from two different species, such as pigs and people. It’s controversial, but edited animal embryos can be

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By James Baggott used to host human organs for vital transplant operations, rather than having to wait for a donor. PUGGLE The Puggle – designed to fit in a handbag – is the comedy hybrid of a Beagle and a Pug. Other designer dogs include labradoodles, horgis, cockapoos and schnoodles. TREE OF 40 FRUIT

The Tree of 40 Fruit is an arboreal artwork created by American art professor Sam Van Aken, who grafts buds from various fruit trees onto a single ‘stock’ tree. The tree grows branches from its different donors, each bearing a unique fruit, including peaches, plums, apricots, nectarines and cherries. LEXUS LS500h

Soon every car will feature hybrid or electric technology, and already carmakers such as Lexus and Toyota have a hybrid-electric version of almost every model in their showroom. 99 per cent of Lexus’s UK sales are petrolelectric hybrids, such as the new LS500h, an executive saloon with limousine-like luxury. It has the first multi-stage hybrid system, featuring a 3.5-litre V6 combined with clever electric motors. The best of both worlds? That’s what hybrids are all about.

Local News

Bedfordshire Steam & Country Fayre 2018 Held in the magnificent grounds of Old Warden Park near Biggleswade, the Bedfordshire Steam & Country Fayre is one of the leading steam events in the country. Over 130 steam engines attend each year with over 600 other exhibits and much more to see. Organised by the Bedford Steam Engine Preservation Society this event attracts over 20,000 visitors each year. This year the Society hosts its 60th annual rally on the 14th – 16th September, one of the largest events in the local area each year. We aim to give an insight into the country life at the turn of the 20th Century when steam was in its heyday. Many working demonstrations are taking place wherever you may care to roam on the 400 acre site. For the complete day out visit the beer garden, listen to the band and visit the trade stalls, food hall and craft marquee. Take a break and watch the arena acts including the Jez Avery Stunt Show, David Seamark and his Sheepdog display, Heavy Horse turnouts and the English School of Falconry. Stay into Saturday evening and end your day marvelling at the magnificent showman’s engines generating the fairground rides and attractions. We look forward to seeing you during the special weekend. Come and see how it was done in grandfathers’ day! Under 16’s get free entry! If you have any further questions contact the show office on 01462 887200 or email show@bseps.org.uk. You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @bedfordsteam.

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Renault CLIO and CAPTUR Celebrating 120 years of Renault

An extra £500 off* when you test drive a new Renault car CLIO Play TCe 75

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CAPTUR Play TCe 90

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The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the MY18 cars shown are: urban 44.8 (6.3); extra-urban 58.8 (4.8)–67.3 (4.2); combined 52.3 (5.4)–56.5 (5.0). The official CO2 emissions are 122– 113g/km. Figures are produced for comparative purposes in accordance with EU legislation and may not reflect real-life driving results. Equivalent NEDC value obtained from WLTP figures, aiming to reflect a closer representation of the ‘real-world’ fuel consumption and CO2 figures.

*Test drive and order by 1 October and register by 31 December 2018 to qualify for an extra £500 (inclusive of VAT) towards your new Renault car (excludes ZOE and Renault Sport). Limited to one car per person. Only available to retail customers. For full terms and conditions and to qualify, book your test drive at renault.co.uk/drive. *Figures shown for Clio Play TCe 75 MY18 based on £179 deposit, 48 monthly payments of £179, optional final payment £4,280. Figures shown for Captur Play TCe 90 based on £209 deposit, 48 monthly payments of £209, optional final payment £5,059. Finance provided by Renault Finance, PO Box 495, Watford WD17 1BR. Subject to status. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. You must be a UK resident (excluding the Channel Islands) and over 18. Offer based on 6,000 miles per annum, excess mileage 8p per mile inc VAT. Terms and conditions apply. Offers can be used with other schemes or finance offers. Prices shown are available on specified new vehicles when ordered between 1 August and 1 October and registered by 31 December 2018. For full representative terms visit renault.co.uk/offers.

0% APR

Book a test drive MOTORVOGUE CLAPHAM (BEDFORD) 87 High Street, Clapham, Bedfordshire, MK41 6AQ TEL 01234 354257 www.motorvogue.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

Three Counties Radio

Shrimp

Burger So let’s be clear, this is basically a delicious prawn cocktail, slathered onto a light and perfectly formed thick prawn fish cake, served in a brioche burger bun. What’s not to like? And my word it works! Layers and layers of flavour and texture make this a perfect alternative to a traditional burger. And its creator, Tom Bainbridge, a regular guest on my Weekend Kitchen programme, is no traditional chef. He taught himself how to cook when he took over the Tilbury in Datchworth and now holds two AA Rosettes there. He loves playing with the classics and usually cannot resist a sweet twist to his dishes. Here he recommends using sweetened brioche buns to do exactly that… This will make up to 6 burgers 500g raw king prawns (shelled) 100g diced raw cod 100g sweet brioche (failing that just use good quality white bread) 1 x jalapeno chili 50g fresh coriander Zest and juice of 1 lemon 2 large banana shallots 2 garlic cloves Salt, pepper and a squeeze of honey to season For the shrimp cocktail: 200g cooked small prawns 50g mayonnaise 25g ketchup Splash each of brandy, Worcestershire Sauce, Tabasco and Lemon, to taste To Serve: Brioche Buns, iceberg lettuce, sliced tomato, crème fraiche

1. Dice up the brioche and toast it under the grill until lightly brown. 2. Roughly chop the shallot, garlic and chili then place all the burger ingredients into a food processor and blend until smooth. Take a small piece of the mixture and fry it to check for seasoning. Adjust the seasoning if it needs more. 3. Form the mixture into six individual patties and place them in the fridge to allow them to firm up. 4. Once firm, fry them in a little oil on a medium heat for 6 minutes, turning every minute. 5. Meanwhile make the shrimp cocktail sauce. Squeeze any excess moisture from the shrimp, then place all the cocktail sauce ingredients, except the shrimp, in a bowl and mix well. Once mixed, add the shrimp back in. 6. To build the burger, first toast the brioche buns. Once toasted, place some shredded iceberg lettuce at the bottom, then add the shrimp cocktail, followed by the burger and a thin slice of tomato on top. You can finish the burger with a spoon of lime zest crème fraiche, but this is optional.

Hear wonderful recipes on Nick Coffer’s Weekend Kitchen every Sunday morning on BBC Three Counties radio at 11am. You can also join Nick every weekday afternoon at midday for brilliant local guests with great stories to tell and all the music you want for your early afternoon.

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Codeword 1

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Suduko

Hard Suduko

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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n O s ’ t Wha In September

Deadline for What’s On entries is the 12th of the previous month. What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.com

1 September Art & Craft Fair 9.30am-4pm Free Church Hall, St Ives Free admission Quality handmade art and craft stalls and tombola.

3, 10, 17 & 24 September Oakington Singers 7.45-9.30pm Oakington Parish Church Oakington Singers invite new Tenors and Basses to join them on Mondays. Their accompanied and unaccompanied repertoire includes Rutter Anthems, Queen, Folk Songs, Spirituals, international songs and much more! Email: paul.tann@btinternet.com

1 September Stourbridge Medieval Fair 12-4.30pm The Leper Chapel, Newmarket Road, Cambridge Free entry. Browse stalls selling produce typical of the time, view historical re-enactments, and wander 3, 10, 17 & 24 September among pedlars and alchemists. Family event. Scottish Country Dancing 8-10pm Queen Elizabeth School, Godmanchester 1 September Tel: Mrs Pat Crowe 01480 453774 Annual Tempsford Show 2-5.30pm Email: pat@patcrowe.plus.com Stuart Memorial Hall, Church Street, Tempsford Adults £1, Children free. Web: www.tempsford4, 11, 18 & 25 September stuart-memorial-village-hall.co.uk Roxton Bridge Circle 7.15-10pm Roxton Parish Hall 1 September Small friendly group playing Bridge every Tuesday Open-Air Movie - Raiders of the Lost Ark evening. Tel: Phyllis 01480 374327 8.30pm The Royal Oak, High Street, Hail Weston Email: mary@jackpike.co.uk Free entry. All-ages action adventure classic. Full bar available including coffees, soft drinks and lots and 5 September lots of popcorn! Web: www.royaloakhailweston.com Godmanchester Senior Citizens Club Coffee Morning & Raffle 1 September 10am-12 noon Godmanchester Town Hall The Village Show at Keysoe Monthly coffee morning and raffle. Annual 2pm Keysoe Village Hall Free entry membership fee is £10.Tel: Geoff 01480 434697 Various stands/stalls from local and national organisations, teas served by W.I. and a children’s 5 September entertainer. All welcome. Tel: 01234 378878 St Mary’s Afternoon WI St Neots 2pm St Mary’s Church Room, St Neots 2 & 16 September First Wednesday of the month. Ladies of the SOE. Comberton Ramblers 10.15am WW2 Theme open event. The Autumn 2018 Walk Programme starts with St Tel: May Parker 07724 043941 Ives on 2 September and Cavendish, Suffolk on 16 Email: mayp.at.home@gmail.com September. Walks are 5-7 miles, usually ending near a public house. New walkers are welcome to join us 5 September with up to 2 free walks. Brampton Flower Club 7.30pm Tel: Stella (Secretary) 01954 210049 Community Centre, High Street, Brampton Email: stella.ramblers@hotmail.com Visitors £6. Crystal Dyball presenting “Up the Garden Web: www.combertonramblers.org.uk Path’. Flower arranging demonstration by qualified demonstrator, raffle, sales table and tea or coffee. 3 & 4 September Tel: Jan Dobie 01480531822 Holiday Bushcraft Club Web: www.bramptonflowerclub.com 8.30am-4pm Wandlebury Country Park Designed for children ages 5-12. All basic bushcraft 5 September techniques suitable for this age range will be taught. Little Paxton Gardening Club Booking essential via the Wild Thyme & Embers 8pm Little Paxton Village Hall website. Web: www.wildthymeandembers.co.uk/ Members £1, Guests £2. Mike Day returns to talk holiday-bushcraft-club.html about the RHS Vegetable Trials. 3, 10, 17 & 24 September West Hunts Friendship Club 9.30am-3pm Great Staughton Village Hall Meets every Monday except Bank Holidays. We are looking for new members who are retired to join our happy team. Members can participate in a range of activities, such as music and singing exercises, quizzes, card and board games as well as enjoying a hot meal at lunch time. Transport can be arranged for those who live within a six miles radius of Great Staughton. Tel: Annabelle Blackham 07527741495

5, 12, 19 & 26 September Kimbolton Bridge Club 9.30am-12 noon Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Meets every Wednesday morning to play friendly, social bridge. No partner needed. Tel: Vanessa 01480 453929 5, 12, 19 & 26 September Little Fishes 10-11.20am Grafham Village Hall Toddler and baby, Stay and Play Session, term-time only. All welcome. Just turn up.

5, 12, 19 & 26 September St Neots Choral Society 7.30-9.30pm Eynesbury C of E Primary School, Montagu Street, Eynesbury New members are very welcome to join and there are no auditions to frighten you but an ability to read a little music is helpful! There is an annual subscription once you decide to join the Society Tel: 01480 212298 Web: www.stneotschoral.org.uk 6-9 September ‘Art4Africa’ Art Exhibition 9am-6pm The Old Chapel House, Riseley Road, Keysoe, MK44 2HT An array of paintings, pottery, sculptures, photography, jewellery and gifts from renowned national and local artists will be showcased and available to buy, with 100% of the proceeds going to local charity, Rise Africa UK, which supports the education of vulnerable children in Tanzania. Web: art4africa.co.uk 8 September Hemingford Village Market 9am-1pm Parish Centre, Hemingford Grey Second Saturday of the month. An opportunity to buy food, crafts, plants and flowers from small local businesses. Refreshments available all day. 8 September St Neots Timebank Coffee Morning 11am-2pm St Marys Church Hall, St Neots Pamper Day theme. 8 September Heritage Open Day: Transforming Tudors 11am-4pm St Neots Museum Free entry. Join experts from Suffolk’s Kentwell Hall, to discover what life was like for the Tudors in St Neots. Experience the food, medicine, music and costumes. Pop-up cafe open all day. Web: www.stneotsmuseum.org.uk 8 September Duos with a Difference 7pm for 7.30pm St Nicolas Church, Hail Weston Tickets £12.50 inc. glass of wine Violin & Electric Violin Concert. Steve Bingham: Violin, Electric Violin, Loops Brenda Stewart: Viola, Violin, Electric Violin. All proceeds towards the St Nicolas Church Restoration. Tel: Tickets Anne-Marie Hamilton 01480 212772, Richard Winser 07885 931100 or Mary Deacon 01480 812363 10 September Godmanchester Trefoil Guild 7.30-9pm Godmanchester Football Ground Trefoil Guild is a branch of Girlguiding for Adults aged 18+. They meet on the second Monday of the month. Email: jeanmking@outlook.com for more info

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n O s ’ t Wha In September

This is a small selection of the What’s On for the full listing please go to our website www.villagermag.com

11 September Police Surgery 5-7pm Brampton Community Centre, High Street, Brampton Residents are invited to meet John Carter, Brampton Police Community Support Officer, to ask advice on home security, raise issues concerning their neighbourhood. 11 September St Ives Sugarcraft Guild 7.30-9pm Reading Room, Hemingford Grey Visitors £6. Monthly meetings where you can learn, hands-on, various cake decorating techniques and/ or sugarcraft. Tel: Shirley 01480 454616

12 September Fundraising Coffee Morning 10am-1pm All Saints Church, Market Square, Huntingdon The Hunts Society for the Blind Fundraising Coffee Morning. All welcome to come along and try our delicious homemade cakes, accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee. The coffee morning is on every second Wednesday of the month from March-November. 12 September Bat Walk 6.45-8.30pm Ferry Meadows, Peterborough £5 per person. Join park rangers and members of the Cambridgeshire Bat Group for an informative presentation and a walk in the Park. Bring a torch and a bat detector, if you have one. For age 5+. Meet at Discovery Den. Web: www.nenepark.org.uk 14 September Free English Lessons 9.30am Chesterton Community College Gilbert Road, Cambridge Contact Sarah Adams to book your free place! Email: sadams@chesterton.cambs.sch.uk Web: www.esolcafe.co.uk 14 September Quiz Night 7.30pm St. James Church, High Street, Little Paxton Tickets £5. Bring your own food and drinks. 6 people per team. Closing date for tickets is 12 September. Tel: Lee Duncan 07931 315648 Email: lm.duncan@ntlworld.com 15 September Ceilidh with Parsons Nose Doors open 7.30pm Offord Village Hall Tickets £12.50 inc. ploughman’s lunch Bar available. Tickets are limited and are available from Offord Village Stores, by telephone or online. Tel: John 01480 810049 or Alan 01480 811126 Web: www.ticketsource.co.uk 16 September Bourn Watermill Open Day 2.30-5.30pm Off Caxton Road, Bourn A rare opportunity to see inside one of the oldest windmills in the UK. No need to book. Web: www.cambridgeppf.org

17 September St Neots Royal Naval Association 8pm The RAFA Club, 44 Huntingdon Street, St Neots St Neots & District Branch of the Royal Naval Association meet on the third Monday of every month. For further details contact the Secretary Tel: Tony Webley 01480 215218 Email: jj.awebley@btinternet.com

18 September Alconbury Over 60s Club Coach trip to Trent River Cruise. Please call to book a seat or find out more about the club. Tel: Sheila 01480 890396 or Val 01480 890166 18 September Kimbolton Flower Club 7.30pm Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Visitors welcome. 19 & 26 September WEA Classes - George Eliot 10.11.30am Reading Room, High Street, Hemingford Grey Course fee £50. George Eliot, the major novels of an eminent Victorian. 9 x 1.5 hour sessions from Wednesday 19 September. Tutor Candice Kent. Tel Course Secretary Pat Douglas 01480 463825 Email: padouglas@btinternet.com 20 September Wildlife Trust Monthly Meander - Trumpington Meadows 9.30am-12 noon Trumpington Meadows, Grantchester Road, Trumpington, CB29LH £3 per person. In the company of the Wildlife Trust’s knowledgeable and entertaining rangers walk the meadows and learn all about the rich variety species found here. Tel: 01223 665742 Email: TrumpingtonMeadows@wildlifebcn.org 20 September St Ives & District Flower Club 2.15pm Visitors £7 Burgess Hall, St Ives Demonstration by Lesley Beaton from Coates entitled “A Cup of Tea, Please”. 21 September The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society (Cert 12) Meal 6 for 6.30pm, Film 7 for 7.30pm Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Tickets £4, Concessions £3, Meal & film ticket £12 Kimbolton Community Cinema. Based on the book, the wartime secrets from Guernsey’s wartime past unfold. Meal is Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Pineapple Salsa. Tickets available from Oliver’s, Swan Pharmacy, Courtyard Kitchens, Bytes Café or by email. Email: jrstratford@hotmail.com Web: http://e-voice.org.uk/ themandevillehallkimbolton/community-cinema

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21 September Prize Bingo 7.30pm Offord Village Hall Raffle. Refreshments provided.

21 September The Wages of Fear Doors open 7.30pm, film starts 8pm Corn Exchange, St Ives Tickets £5 + booking fee Screen St Ives. Four desperate men, penniless and stranded in South America, sign up for a dangerous mission to drive two truckloads of nitro-glycerine to a remote oilfield 300 miles down a hazardous road. Real tension from the master of the French thriller. Web: www.screenstives.org.uk 24 September WEA Classes - War Wings, 1914-18 2-4pm Reading Room, High Street, Hemingford Grey Course fee £52. 7 x 2 hour sessions from Monday 24 September. Tutor Ian McLachlan. Tel: Course Secretary Sarah Power 01480 463825 Email: s.power111@btinternet.com 26 September Stay Calm & Learn CPR - Defibrillator Awareness 7pm The Hub, Little Paxton Do you know the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest? They are not the same. Would you know what to do? Would you panic? Stay calm as this is a great opportunity to learn how to recognise sudden cardiac arrest, use the defibrillator and do CPR. It takes only 5 minutes to save a life. Little Paxton Parish Council is arranging a defibrillator awareness session to demonstrate how the defibrillators work and how to use them. The sessions will be run by the Community HeartBeat Trust in The Hub. The Council would like to invite residents to come along. Refreshments available. 27 September St Neots & District Gardening Club 8pm St Mary’s Church Hall, St Neots Members £2, Non-members £2.50 inc. refreshments & raffle ticket. After the AGM ideas for events for 2019 will be discussed. Web: www.stneotscardenclub.org.uk 29 September Beer Festival 6-11pm Offord Village Hall Tickets £15 inc. 5 drinks. Live music by Alison Lane. Tickets available by telephone or online. Tel: 07855 068756 or 07725 553235 Web: www.ticketsource.co.uk 29 September Stand Up Comedy Night 7.30pm Advance Tickets £7 Upper Cambourne Cricket Pavilion, Back Lane, Cambourne Bringing you the best new and experienced comics on the comedy circuit right now! Web: www.bigdealcomedy.co.uk

Pets

Is Your Pet in Pain? September is Animal Pain Awareness Month It’s definitely worthwhile paying attention to changes in your pet’s behaviour, as it could indicate that they’re in pain. September is Animal Pain Awareness Month, so here we look at some of the signs you should look for. Altered sleeping patterns Some pets sleep more when they’re dealing with pain, whilst others are less able to sleep because of the discomfort. If your pet’s general sleeping pattern has altered noticeably, it’s worth looking a little closer at other behaviours, as it could be a sign of physical distress. Changed social interactions It’s more obvious when your pet withdraws from social interactions if they’re naturally gregarious, but even quieter animals may be noticeably withdrawn when they’re feeling pain. On the other hand, they could be more aggressive,

or generally less tolerant of people and other animals around them. Drop in appetite Humans tend to lose their appetite when in pain, and it’s the same with animals. If your pet is eating less and appears to be losing weight, speak to your vet as there might be a serious underlying cause. Change in eye appearance When an animal is in pain, it often shows in their eyes, which can appear strained, potentially with larger dilated pupils. Dogs and cats also sometimes squint, and develop bloodshot eyes. It’s often an animal’s general behaviour that alerts you to their pain, but by keeping an eye out for these telltale signs, you’ll be able to react quickly and deal with the cause.

www.skinnerspetfoods.co.uk/news/septemberanimal-pain-awareness-month-look-10-signsmean-pooch-pain/ www.ivapm.org/common-signs-pain-dogs-cats/

By Ann Haldon

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Life Begins...

By Kate McLelland

Drowning in documents? It’s time to free up your files Overstuffed filing drawers, bulging boxes of payslips, tax records and invoices that go back years. Sounds familiar? Most of us hoard documents because it’s hard to know exactly how long we’re supposed to keep them and – when they are out of date – how to dispose of them safely. Here are some essential tips for handling and processing your personal documentation. Which documents should I keep, and for how long? The tips below are based on guidance provided by trusted organisations such as the Citizen’s Advice Bureau and HMRC, but there are no hard and fast rules. For instance, if you are self-employed and claiming expenses, you might need to keep some of your documents for a longer period. Bank, credit card and loan statements: according to moneysaving guru Martin Lewis, these should be retained for at least six years or longer if possible, just in case another mis-selling scandal like the recent PPI affair should happen in future. Utility bills: it’s probably worth holding on to these for 12 months, as this allows you to keep track of

what you actually use. Receipts and warranties: you should keep important receipts for six years, but warranties can be thrown away once they have expired. Insurance documents: it’s best not to throw away some old policies in case you need to make a retrospective claim (or someone makes a claim against you). P45s and payslips: HMRC recommends that individuals keep tax-related paperwork such as payslips and P45s for at least twenty-two months from the end of the relevant tax year. Medical records: your GP holds your records but it’s useful to keep any letters or treatment records for quick reference. Personal documents: these include birth and marriage certificates, National Insurance certificates, court orders and decrees, deeds, copies of wills, share certificates, motor vehicle documents and mortgage papers. Such documents should be stored securely and kept forever. Don’t throw your identity out with the rubbish Fraudsters are prepared to scavenge through bins and even

landfill sites to obtain personal data, as one lucky find can earn them thousands of pounds. So what’s the best way to dispose of your financial documents? Shredding: if you tear up a document by hand, the chances are that a criminal could still put it together like a jigsaw. Shredding is a much safer option and you can buy a cheap, hand-operated shredder from around £10.99 upwards. Burning: incinerating your documents is a simple solution, but do bear in mind any local authority restrictions if you are planning to light a bonfire. Consider the fire risk and make sure your smoke doesn’t cause nuisance to neighbours. Soaking: you can destroy paper by mulching it in a bucket of water. When it dissolves it should be easy to tear it up, but make sure it’s reduced to an unreadable pulp before you throw it away. Recycling your paper waste is good for the environment and tackling those piles of outdated paperwork will create more space in your home. You can also feel good about ticking off another task on your ‘to do’ list, so don’t delay, start sorting!

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Small Spaces

Parenting

Making the most of kids’ bedrooms Kids’ bedrooms have to tick a lot of boxes. They need to provide plenty of storage space for toys, clothes, books and games, plus a bed and enough space to play. That can be challenging when a room is roughly the size of a broom cupboard, but it can be done… Beds with storage When you don’t have much floor space, the key is to make the most of the space you have vertically. Mid and high-sleepers and cabin beds are ideal for smaller bedrooms. Sleepers tend to be bed frames with taller legs. They often come with furniture that fits underneath, or you can add your own. Cabin beds typically have more built-in storage. This Vox Nest Kids Cabin Bed is fully customisable. The frame is £695 from www.cuckooland.com, which includes some shelves, and you can add organisers, pull-out drawers, a desk, pull-out wardrobe and more. Budget-friendly cabin beds can be picked up from www.mrsflatpack.co.uk and N&N

Furniture Bargains on Facebook. Lots of beds are available as a ‘shorty’. These are shorter than normal beds and will usually fit a child up until age ten or eleven. Storage solutions Children’s clothes usually don’t need that much hanging space, so the bottom of wardrobes is often wasted or used as a dumping ground. If you’re buying new, look for a wardrobe that includes shelves or drawers. If you already have a wardrobe, see whether you can fit an extra rail, squeeze in a small cupboard or add some large storage bags or boxes. Don’t have space for a standard wardrobe? Built-in wardrobes can be expensive, but simple hanging rails can often be fitted into alcoves quite easily. They start from just a few pounds in Ikea. If you’re struggling to fit everything in, vacuum pack seasonal clothes to store in the loft until they’re needed. Try to utilise wasted space as much as possible. For a start, add a hanging organiser to the back of

the bedroom door. While they’re often designed for shoes, they’re perfect for dolls, action figures and teddies, or socks, tights, pants and vests. You could also look at fitting a shelf above the door to store games that don’t get used very often. In a small room, every item of furniture really needs to pull its weight. Look for multi-purpose furniture, such as a chair that can pull out into a bed for sleepovers, or a toy chest with a pull-out drawer (rather than a lift-up lid), so your child can use the top as a seat or for extra storage. Toy hammocks can be strung between corners to keep teddies within sight. Hanging mesh organisers can also be useful, but you need to be careful that air can circulate around the entire thing, otherwise walls and toys can get mouldy. They’re also not ideal for children who might try swinging on them, as you could end up with a ceiling that’s missing a large chunk of plaster!

By Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

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Interiors

Sofa, so good! The story of the three-piece suite How much thought do you give your couch day-today? Unless you plan to replace it soon, probably not very much. Have you ever wondered how we ended up with the three-piece suite? The story is a 20th Century one. The key to its success is wrapped up in functionality and cost. As the middle and working classes moved out of slums and into their own homes, they needed furniture. The new homes were compact, with small rooms, totally unsuited to the heavy mahogany pieces of the large ‘society’ houses, and this type of furniture would have been beyond the financial reach of most ordinary people anyway. The three-piece suite’s popularity grew through the storylines of the 1930s Hollywood film sets. Drawing room dramas and comedies created opportunities for film makers to create lavish ‘home’ sets. Housewives of the day who went to watch the movies saw famous actresses drape themselves over silk covered sofas or chairs, created in the contemporary Art Deco style. They yearned to recreate this in their own lives and so provided a ready mass market for similar furniture. Style gurus of the period, such as Stijl in Holland, Gropius and the Bauhaus group in Germany created designs that were cutting edge yet still suited to the functionality of the new era. Although these designer pieces were still only affordable by the wealthy elite, manufacturers began to adapt designs for a mass market. Expensive coverings such as leather and silk were replaced by modern materials such as rexine, which had a dramatic

effect on the price. The three-piece suite was a staple of most suburban childhoods. Many of us can remember traipsing round furniture showrooms with our parents while they looked for the perfect set. These nearly always comprised a three-seater sofa with two matching armchairs, all upholstered in beige velour or fake leather, unless you were my mother who favoured deep red or green, lending our sitting room the air of a tart’s boudoir or a pub depending on the wallpaper! It was Habitat and IKEA that changed the concept of the three-piece suite, with their modular systems that could be made to fit any space, in a variety of fabrics. Pieces no longer had to match, so you could express your personality through your sofa choice. The modular sofa wasn’t actually invented by Habitat or Ikea. It was invented by an American designer named Harvey Probber in 1944 though it didn’t go mainstream until the 1970s. G Plan, which designed early UK versions, led the way with their 1971 Duo range. According to a 1979 article in the US magazine Interior Design, Probber’s invention was “...one of the most influential developments in contemporary furniture design”. These days we nearly all have some variation on the original three-piece suite in our homes, and its difficult to see what might ever replace it. I think I’ll go and sit on mine with a good book.

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August’s Puzzle Solutions and Winners Last Month’s Crossword Winner Mrs Beryl Havers from St Neots Winner of the Herrings Green Farm Competition Helene Bradshaw from Clophill

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Books

Book Review By Kate Duggan The Salt Path by Raynor Winn

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Raynor and her husband Moth lost their farm just days after finding out that Moth was suffering from an incurable, life-limiting illness. With no money and nowhere to live, the couple made the decision to walk the South West Coast Path – 630 miles through Somerset, Devon, Cornwall and Dorset. The Salt Path is the true story of that walk – the challenges Raynor and Moth faced, the people they met and the things they learnt along the way.

Once by Morris Gleitzman

Morris Gleitzman’s series follows a Jewish boy called Felix in Poland during the Second World War. Felix runs away from an orphanage in search of his parents, who disappeared several years before. Along the way, he befriends a girl called Zelda, and receives help from various people he meets. As you’d expect, the story is harrowing at times, but it’s also funny, uplifting and impossible to put down. This one will stay with you for a very long time.

Please contact Chris on 01480 810133 or 07717 172100 Email: kingelectrical01@gmail.com

Electrician

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

Heating and Plumbing Services

Fantastically Great Women Who Made History by Kate Pankhurst

A follow-on from Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World, this children’s book includes stories about a diverse range of women, from Boudicca to Harriet Tubman. The tales are engaging, fun to read and brought to life with colourful illustrations. Each story only takes a few minutes to read, so this is a perfect book to read with your child at bedtime. You might just learn something new yourself.

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