Great Ashby April 2019

VILLAGER The

April 2019

and Town

Life

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

In this issue The History of

Children’s Toys Join the

Race for Life Win £25

in our Prize Crossword

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Inside this issue...

Win a Refresh and Revive Day for two at Ragdale Hall Spa

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The History of Children’s Toys......................................................4 Organise an Easter Egg Hunt......................................................8 Win A refresh and Revive Day at Ragdale Hall Spa....................10 Win Two Tickets to Classic Ibiza................................................12 Wines Worth Locating: Il Roncal...............................................14 Host the Best Garage Sale........................................................17 How to get a Good Sleep..........................................................18 Portugal...................................................................................21 Colour and Style Trends - Spring/Summer 2019.......................24 Make a Date to Join the Race for Life........................................26 Citizens Advice Stevenage........................................................29 Open Banking: What’s in it for you?..........................................30

Open Your Garden....................................................................34 R.A.T.S. Rehoming Appeal........................................................37 Animal Stories..........................................................................38 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe...................................................41 Hiring a Tree Surgeon...............................................................43 Macmillan Cancer Support.......................................................44 Music and Dementia: Breaking the Silence..............................46 Puzzle Page..............................................................................48 Seven Reasons to Join a Gym Today..........................................51 What’s On.................................................................................52 Don’t be an April Fool...............................................................55 Wordsearch..............................................................................57 Prize Crossword........................................................................58 Book Review............................................................................60

Win Two Tickets to Classic Ibiza

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Get your business off to a flying start this year

Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £30.00 +VAT per month Editorial Catherine Rose, Sarah Davey, Trevor Langley, Dr. Michelle O’Reilly, Daniela, Jennie Billings, Rachael Leverton, RSPCA, Ann Haldon, Nick Coffer, Ian Robbins, Kate McLelland and Kate Duggan

Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com Photography - Tomas Anderson 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

The History of Children’s Toys

By Catherine Rose

Since the dawn of time, children have played with toys both to amuse themselves and to learn about the world around them. From a simple cup and ball to a Slinky, toys don’t necessarily have to be complicated to provide hours of enjoyment.

Some of the oldest known toys are human-type figures or dolls. The word ‘doll’ or ‘dolly’ is said to have originated in the 16th century and was a term of endearment used for a female pet or mistress, as well as being the shortened form of the name Dorothy.

Children of ancient Greece and Rome played with dolls made from the materials that were available, such as ivory, wood, clay or bunched together rags (the original rag dolls). Unlike traditional African dolls, we know that these dolls were playthings rather than for magic or spiritual rituals as they have been found inside the graves of ancient Roman children.

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Different cultures over the ages have had their own dolls. For example, the Inuits made dolls from soapstone and fur, while Native American Indians had dolls made from corn husks. These dolls didn’t have a face and legend has it that it was the crop goddesses’ punishment to the doll for her vanity.

The first jigsaw puzzle was made in 1767 Ancient Japanese Dogu dolls date back as far as 8,000 BC. Their use is not known but by the 11th century, elaborately dressed wood and straw Hina dolls were used as toys. Later, wood and wax Kokeshi dolls were produced, typified by their oversized heads and absence of limbs.

The fascinating folkloric Russian or Matryoshka wooden nesting dolls first appeared in the late

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19th century and are now a world-famous symbol of the country.

Contrary to popular belief, a peg or Dutch doll was originally a jointed wooden doll produced in Germany, although we now think of them as being the simple dolls made from clothes pegs during the first half of the 20th century that were popular among children from impoverished families.

Increasingly common from the 1860s, Parian dolls had a stuffed fabric body and an unglazed hand-painted porcelain face (sometimes hands and feet also) with proper hair and glass eyes.

Interestingly, brown eyes predominated until Queen Victoria’s influence made blue eyes more sought after.

Like the doll, articulated figures made to move with strings or rods, otherwise known as marionettes, and their counterpart, hand puppets, were in use across East Asia to Europe as early as the first dolls.

Initially created for performance, French minstrels in the 13th century would entertain crowds with hand puppets and it was out of this tradition that Punch (originally Punchinello) and Judy was born, first recorded in England in 1662.

Today, we see the tale of Punch and Judy as a rather horrifying lesson in physical abuse, but in those days children were viewed as miniadults so would not have been protected from violence in the real world – hence some of the more gruesome fairy tale books. It was the late Victorians who first began to treat children with more sensitivity and to shield them from the often harsh realities of adulthood.

In the past, children wouldn’t have owned as many toys as they do today – perhaps only two or three items. These could have included a hoop and stick, an inflated ball made of a pig’s bladder and a set of glass marbles. Very wealthy children, particularly girls, would have been lucky enough to own a doll’s house (invented in the 16th century) or a rocking horse. Slightly less well-off children might have had a hobby horse – a simple wooden horse’s head on a stick that could also be ‘ridden’.

Christmas stockings would have included an orange or a bag of nuts as often as a skipping rope, a set of jacks or a simple string used for cat’s cradle.

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Some of the most popular toys were invented by academics in pursuit of learning. The first jigsaw puzzle was made in 1767 by John Spilsbury, who cut up maps of the world to teach children geography. The kaleidoscope (Greek for ‘beautiful form watcher’) was invented in 1816 by Scottish scientist Sir David Brewster while studying polarisation optics.

The now iconic teddy bear was unveiled in the US in 1902 and is said to have been named after President Theodore Roosevelt. The following year, teddy bears began to be produced in Europe, notably Germany where the now famous teddy company Steiff was launched; their collectable bears are recognisable by the button in their ear.

The industrial revolution brought mass production of toys and the coming of train sets, metal die-cast cars and mechanical playthings.

The subsequent advent of plastics brought with it a huge surge in the development of toys and the 20th century heralded more availability and variety than ever with the invention of Lego (from the Danish ‘leg godt’ meaning ‘play well’), Meccano and, today, all manner of electronic gizmos.

But the best toy of all? It will undoubtedly always be a child’s imagination.

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Time of Year

By Sarah Davey

Organise an Easter Egg Hunt Easter egg hunts are great fun, but it can be hard to come up with original ideas.

Depending on the ages of the children the hunt can be easy or fiendishly difficult Here are some ideas Bunny Bounce Challenge - Set up different activity posts around the garden or park. At each one, the kids need to complete a physical challenge in order to receive an egg. The challenges could include star jumps, hopping, hula-hooping, or doing a silly dance.

Easter Rhyme Challenge - If you’re good at rhymes, create a set of rhyming clues that take the children from one hiding place to another until they find the eggs.

Pirate Bunny Treasure Hunt - Create a treasure map which the children have to follow to discover where the chocolate eggs are hidden. Perhaps a paw print or an Easter Egg could mark the spot instead of an X Easter Craft Challenge - Set up different craft activities around the house or garden. For each cute Easter craft your child completes, they win a little chocolate egg.

Easter Bonnet Competition - Challenge the kids to create their own Easter bonnets from craft materials and old hats (Charity shops are great for

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cheap hats). You can give chocolate egg prizes for the most creative, the prettiest, the funniest etc The Scrambled Egg Hunt - This is a great Easter egg hunt idea for older kids. At each station leave cards with single letters written on them, or a set of plastic toy letters. The challenge is to rearrange the letters to spell the word of the next place to find a clue, for example ‘bath’ or ‘shed’ or ‘stairs’. At the final station they get to collect their eggs.

Colour-Coded Easter Egg Hunt - Use a pack of eggs in different colours. Give each child a colour.

They can only collect eggs which match that colour.

Bunny Vouchers Easter Egg Hunt - Some children can’t have chocolate due to a medical condition, so instead of chocolate treats, pop little slips of paper inside plastic eggs. Each slip should have a little treat written on it for your child to claim over the next week or so; things like ‘ go trampolining with my dad’, or ‘fly a kite with mummy.

Egg Decoder Hunt - Take apart colourful hollow plastic eggs and put them back together with mismatched colours. The children must work in teams to find the eggs hidden around the garden, take them apart and put them back together with the matching colour. The team with the most colour-matched eggs wins the big prize.

Happy hunting!

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Win a Refresh & Revive Day

for two at Ragdale Hall Spa

Ragdale Hall Spa is located in the rolling Leicestershire countryside and combines state-of-the-art facilities with the charm of traditional Victorian architecture, to create one of the most luxurious and extensive spa facilities in the country. The newly opened Rooftop Infinity Pool, Ragdale Hall Spa’s sixth pool, is heated to 35 degrees and offers stunning panoramic views. Ragdale Hall Spa was recently awarded Best Destination Spa* by the Good Spa Guide and is renowned for outstanding customer service.

Win a Refresh and Revive Day for two, where you and your guest will enjoy unlimited use of the Thermal Spa and pools, gym and exercise classes. You’ll both enjoy a 50-minute Blissful Face and Back Therapy, plus a three-course lunch in the Dining Room.

If you’re not the lucky winner, then Ragdale Hall Spa gift vouchers are the best way to give the gift of ‘me-time’ to friends, family and loved ones. Monetary spa gift vouchers start from just £25 so there’s something to suit all tastes and pockets.

For more information, visit ragdalehall.co.uk or call 01664 433030.

T&C’s - Arrive at Ragdale Hall Spa for 8.30am and leave at 6.00pm feeling refreshed and revived!

The prize is valid Monday – Thursday. The prize must be taken within six months of the date the winner is notified, and guests must be aged 16 or over. Travel is not included. *Good Spa Awards 2017

Competition

RAGDALE HALL SPA COMPETITION ENTRY



To enter, simply complete the form below and send to: Ragdale Hall Spa Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP. Deadline: 16th April 2019.

Name: Tel: Email: Address: 10

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Win two tickets to Classic Ibiza with San Miguel at Hatfield House Classic Ibiza, with premium Spanish beer brand San Miguel, is returning to Hertfordshire on 31st August.

The concert sees the Urban Soul Orchestra (USO), DJ Goldierocks and a host of live vocalists perform some of dance music’s most iconic tracks in the delightful grounds of Hatfield House.

Here’s what to expect: 1. Dance music A-listers: USO have performed with a veritable who’s-who of dance music, including Nightmares On Wax, Groove Armada and Robert Miles.

2. Superstar DJ: Goldierocks has performed exclusively for Kate Moss, Madonna, The Rolling Stones, Giorgio Armani and the Duke & Duchess of Cambridge.

3. Get set to select: The set-list includes some of the biggest dance-tracks dating back to the 90s. At Easter you can vote for your favourite track to be added to the set on Classic Ibiza’s Facebook page (@ClassicIbiza).

4. Family friendly: Classic Ibiza is a concert for all the family, so whether you’re six or 60 you are assured of having a fantastic evening.

5. Food for thought: You can bring your own picnic and refreshments or take advantage of the local street-food vendors and bars on site.

6. A night of two halves: Classic Ibiza starts with a chill-out set, where you can relax over a glass of bubbly, or dance along as the sun fades. The music gets ramped up in the second half and you’ll be transported to a magical, alfresco celebration, with accompanying lasers.

Visit: www.classicibiza.co.uk or call 01283 841601.

Tickets: Adults: £39.50, Children (5 –16): £17.50, Under 5’s: free, Car-parking: free.

Simply send or email your entry by 16th April 2019 to: Classic Ibiza Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP. Email: nigel@villagermag.com The winner will be drawn randomly.



CLASSIC IBIZA TICKET COMPETITION ENTRY

To win 2 free tickets to Classic Ibiza answer the question below and email or post your response by 16th April 2019.

Ibiza is part of which group of islands?

A: The Falkland Islands  B: The Balearic Islands  C: The Shetland Islands  Name: Address: Tel: Email: 12

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Food and Drink

Wines Worth Locating: Il Roncal

Italy is renowned for producing many high-quality products, from cars to designer fashions and much more.

Visitors to Italy return year after year and take much pleasure in the landscapes, beautiful coastal areas, plus culture, arts and history of the country. The wines that Italy produces are very impressive, with many being award-winning. Numerous wine producers have olive groves also and Italian olive oils are most excellent, along with their wines.

The Il Roncal Estate is located on the Montebello Hill, near Cividale del Friuli and was founded during 1986.

Ribolla Gialla I found to be an excellent dry white wine. Produced using 100% Ribolla Gialla grapes, the bouquet is both fresh and enticing. The mouthfeel and palate continue the enjoyment of this production, especially with fish and seafood dishes. Spumante Brut is most excellent, too. This white sparkler utilises 50% Chardonnay and 50% Ribolla Gialla grapes. The fine perlage provides a very acceptable experience, with vibrancy and freshness. Splendid to commence a meal and to accompany seafood dishes, etc. Civon is a very popular dry red wine. Carefully-selected, hand-picked grapes follows with the containment in French oak barriques and then on to stainless steel tanks, before bottling. A ruby-red colour greets the eye and an intense bouquet pleases. Full-bodied, for the mouth’s pleasures, it is then smooth for the palate. A wine that will cellar very well. Perfect with red meats and game.

Verduzzo Friulano has 100% grapes, of the same name, to produce this superbly sweet dessert wine. Golden-yellow, in colour, the nose is of sweet fruits. Absolutely, a pleasure on the palate and great to pair with cakes and many desserts.

These are just a selection, from the range of productions by Il Roncal, which also includes very impressive extra virgin olive oil. Il Roncal is also a resort, utilising the old mansion, that offers comfortable rooms which overlook the vineyards.

Guests’ comforts and memorable experiences are high on the agenda for Il Roncal, which prides itself on delivering a holiday of interest and information, as well as peace, with guided tours of the vineyard and tastings being very popular, indeed. www.ilroncal.it Other productions include splendid fruit vinegars, grape pit oil, plus grape pit flour and honey.

For all details, www.hirschmugl-domaene.at

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

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104 Ampthill Road, Shefford, Beds SG17 5BB 16

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Time of Year

Host the Best Garage Sale Garage sales are great way to raise a little extra cash. Maximise your profit with our top tips.

Choose the right time - Weekend mornings are traditional, but Sunday afternoons might be good because people often like a walk after lunch. If you live on the same road as a primary school, try a weekday morning to attract people dropping their children off.

Teamwork - Team up with a few neighbours to host a road-full of garage sales. By pooling resources, you could reach a wider range of potential customers.

Advertise - Successful garage sales rely on spreading the word beforehand. Put up fliers or advertise in your local village or Parish magazine (like the one you’re holding!). If your village has a Facebook page, list your sale on that.

Put up signs - Simple, bright signs work best. A large arrow pointing the way along with the words ‘GARAGE SALE’ will do the trick. Remember to remove them afterwards so you don’t contravene any by-laws.

Prepare - Think about what buyers might need.

If you’re selling a lot of clothes, is there a screen so people can try things on in private. Is there a mirror? If you’re selling electronics or small appliances, have batteries or extension cords handy so people can see an item works.

Have change - Have plenty of coins on hand so you can quickly provide change for customers.

Make it look like a shop - People browse longer

in well-organised boutiques and stores. Borrow or rent tables so shoppers don’t have to bend over or rummage on the ground to inspect items.

Put some bright bunting up to make it look welcoming. Group similar items together: kitchen items in one area; kids’ clothes in another etc. This helps people evaluate what you have on offer quickly.

Price It Right, and Offer Deals - A good rule of thumb is to sell items at 10-25% of their original value. People don’t look to spend a lot in a garage sale. If you think something is worth £50 or more it might be better to use eBay. Towards the end of your sale, consider posting an ‘everything must go’ sign and offer deals or bundles. Or have a few paper bags on hand and tell people to fill them with whatever they’d like for £5 or £10 per bag.

Make It a Party - Music entices people to stay longer and spend more. So, crank up the tunes, put out some nibbles and drinks, and make people feel welcome.

Be Comfortable - Wear comfortable clothes, a hat and sunscreen, depending on the weather. Have drinks and snacks handy.

Be Safe - Lock your doors while you’re running the sale. Safeguard your money: use a zipped bumbag or an apron with large pockets. Cash boxes can disappear while you’re distracted with a buyer.

Enlist a friend to help as an extra pair of eyes and hands.

By Sarah Davey Have fun!

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Health

How to get a good sleep

‘A good laugh and a long sleep are the two best cures for anything’ (Irish proverb) If only there was a magic button at our disposal to deliver us to the restorative yet often elusive realm of sleep whenever we so desired. In the absence of this magic button, trying even a few of these tips should help give us the best chance for easing ourselves into beguiling, healing slumber.

• Banishing our mobile phones to another room (or at least away from our beds) is arguably the most effective thing we can do for how long and how well we sleep.

Why? Our phones emit blue light, a type of light the brain interprets as daylight. This light is known to suppress melatonin, a hormone that rises about two hours before bedtime and has sleep-inducing effects. This light from our phones beaming into our eyes at night is telling our brains that it’s day-time and to be awake! Buy an old-fashioned alarm clock and read a book before sleep.

• To regulate our 24-hour circadian rhythm, try to get up and go to bed at the same time 7 days a week (yes, sorry – that means weekends too).

• Naps are good, but not after 3 pm and for no longer than 30 minutes. This is because of a chemical called adenosine, which builds up in the brain the longer you are awake, creating ‘sleep pressure’. Having a long nap will take away some of that pressure, so you will be left with less sleep drive when it comes to bedtime.

• Avoid coffee or tea from midday. Caffeine persists in our systems for 10-12 hours (i.e. a really, really long time) and works by blocking the sleepiness signal normally communicated to the brain by adenosine.

• Exercise has widely-documented beneficial effects on sleep quality and duration, primarily by reducing stress. Try to include even a little bit of exercise into your day e.g. a 20 min walk, or yoga. Exercise in the evening isn’t a good idea though, as it will raise your body temperature and heart rate, making it more difficult to fall asleep.

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• Try to avoid large meals that could cause indigestion at night, especially within the 2 hours before bedtime. However, don’t go to bed hungry either. In that case, have a non-sugary snack; this can help reduce night-time waking.

• To help set our circadian rhythm, try to expose yourself to daylight outdoors (even a murky grey sky will work) as soon as you can after waking. Loss of daylight informs the master circadian clock in our brain, the suprachiasmatic nucleus, that it’s night-time: time for the release of melatonin that signals our brain that it’s time for sleep. Therefore, in the evening, turn off any bright overhead lights and have lowered, dim lights where you spend your evening hours, and have the bedroom as dark as possible during the night (e.g. try an eye mask or black-out curtains).

• Bedroom temperature is important too – ideally, it should be quite cool (18-20 Celsius). To fall asleep, your core temperature needs to drop by about 1 degree Celsius. This temperature dip triggers the evening surge in melatonin, and with it, the initiation of sleep.

by Dr. Michelle O’Reilly Ph.D. Neuroscientist, science writer and (mostly recovered) insomniac.

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Portugal

Portugal is quite a small country on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe; about the size of Ireland. There are three usual destinations: Porto, Lisbon and Faro; each area with its unique attractions.

Porto is a large town in the northern part of the country. It is a town with some very steep streets, which allow spectacular views. Like Lisbon, it is full of history – depicted in its churches, museums and parks. Trips on the River Douro allow you to admire many bridges built in different times and provide awesome views from the water. Portugal depends on tourism and there are many trips to nearby places, such as the Porto wine farms in the heart of the Douro River, the colourful seaside ‘huts’ (Costa Nova) and the ‘Venice’ of Portugal (Aveiro) – where you can taste ‘Ovos moles’, a heavenly local pastry. It is interesting to note that one Porto wine has been in Scottish hands (now Symington Family Estate) since 1882. Throughout the trips, the tourist guides provide you with much interesting information and always do their best to enable you to enjoy your trip to the maximum. I visited one beach in Porto, but the North Atlantic Ocean makes it, for me, rough and rather cold, but it still provided a pleasant walk in the sea.

I have visited all three places and Lisbon is my favourite. I stayed for five weeks and everyday there was something else to explore: from museums, art galleries, parks, S. Jorge Castle, the sea world,

Travel excavations, train trips along the river Tejo (as far as a fascinating fishing village called Cascais), and so on. The beach in Cascais felt inviting even in December. The restaurants can be very traditional or very modern with varied and delicious food. I would recommend a restaurant where you can pick fresh fish to be cooked for you, then and there.

Faro is often visited because of its beaches, but I just like looking at them, not sunbathing and frying myself to a cinder. The town itself has several interesting tourist attractions, but not as many when compared to Lisbon or Porto. On this coastline, A Rocha (a Centre of Study and Environmental Interpretation) was founded in 1983 and is run by a team of volunteers. It provides valuable data on birds as they are regularly caught and ringed, and the information is then recorded. I had the privilege to be part of this team in April 1994 as a Voluntary Warden.

One advantage that I found in Portugal is that the weather is mild even in winter, making winter visits pleasant and bearable. Unfortunately though, many houses do not have any heating, which can be a little uncomfortable in the colder season. Obviously, their summers can be hot.

People say Spanish and Portuguese are similar, but when a Spanish and a Portuguese person meet they often prefer to communicate in English.

Besides these three areas, there are also many rural towns and villages with fascinating, natural beauty.

Hiring a car is advised, as it will enable you to explore and appreciate the area more fully - allowing you to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience and to make memories that you will treasure forever.

By Daniela

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House of Colour

Colour & Style Trends

Spring/Summer 2019

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1. Colour – One of the most noteworthy trends from the catwalk was its homage to diversity, fluidity, inclusivity and authenticity. More than ever colour made a commanding statement on the catwalks, both neutral and subtle as well as bold, from metallics to sage green, brick red to earthy beige and turmeric tones, versus just about any pink. There is something for everyone.

2. Going to Work Structure and Feminism – On trend for several seasons now, tailored garments have been providing structure for a sharp and elegant look in the workplace including in bold colours. Feminine silhouettes are emphasised through form-fitting dresses, midi and pencil skirts and nipped-in blazers. Lace trims and satin can be introduced to enhance femininity.

3. Modern Prairie – Prairie inspired looks which incorporate a western, modern twist will be seen a lot this summer. Midi dresses with romantic ruffles and ditsy florals will suit those with natural romantic style and can even be worn with western inspired accessories for a fresh interpretation. Bandana-inspired dresses are revisited in contemporary cuts and asymmetric dresses equally cut a dash.

4. Leisure Luxe – Leisurewear is no longer for the home or the gym in an age when natural healthy living is the biggest trend of them all.

As athleisure transitions into life wear, comfort and functionality creates gorgeous wearable silhouettes that flatter a variety of shapes and can suit any budget.

5. Hyper Tropical – This look is vibrant and eyecatching and is therefore best suited to those who like to make a bit of a statement. Think

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glamour, colour-driven, bold patterns on any coordinates and dresses using shiny fabrics, ethically sourced feather trims, sequins and beading. The pieces can transition effortlessly from beach to bar with an upgrade in accessories.

Nomadic Cool – This relaxed, dressed-down nomadic vibe is inspired by a generation prioritising global travel and is best worn as a rich interplay of prints and textures across long and layered silhouettes and sport basics.

Makeup trends – With Pantone’s nod of approval to living coral as their colour of the year, Autumns and Springs can successfully carry off this warm hue in their lipsticks, nail varnishes and eyeshadows, and perfectly pair them with warm nudes and gold accessories, particularly complementing a sun-kissed complexion.

Cooler tones should reach for more blue-based equivalents ranging from Winter’s magenta to Summer’s softer rose or raspberry.

Accessories – Be playful in your choices! In fact bling it on! This is the season for those of us where more is more and the bigger is better.

Headbands have made a comeback, as has jewellery dripping in crystals and large heart shapes, but as always choose pieces that make you feel gorgeous rather than overwhelmed.

Handbags – When choosing a summer handbag many of us avoid heavy leather or plastic as they add weight to an outfit and can be uncomfortable to carry in sticky climes.

Environmentally friendly cotton sling bags, crochet or fringe bags are a more practical and cooler option and fits with the hot right now boho vibe. Or choose sporty rucksacks, boxy bags with a gorgeous handle, the seen everywhere bum bag, belt bag or giant tote as your signature bag.

Shoes – There is a strong opportunity for footwear in bright colours this season whilst elevated sole trainers also feature strongly.

This season is all about having fun with your footwear as the catwalks were covered with feathers, toe ring sandals and crystals on shoes.

By Jennie Billings, Colour and Style consultant, House of Colour www.houseofcolour.co.uk/jenniebillings e:jennie.billings@houseofcolour.co.uk

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Tel: 01438 317 482

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25

Local News

Make a Date to Join the Race for Life This year, for the first time, Cancer Research UK is inviting everyone – women, men and children - to join the Race for Life. There are events for people of all ages and abilities taking place across Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Peterborough throughout the summer.

Annie Ashwell, one of Cancer Research UK’s Event Managers, said: “Our Race for Life events are fun, colourful, emotional and uplifting. They help people with cancer by raising money for research, including clinical trials which give patients access to the latest treatments.

“You don’t have to be sporty to take part. You don’t need to train or compete against anyone else. All you need to do is go to the Race for Life website, pick an event, sign up and then have fun raising money in whatever way you like.”

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, is an inspiring series of 5k,10k and Pretty Muddy events which raise millions of pounds every year to help beat cancer by funding crucial research.

“Taking part in our Race for Life events enables likeminded people to get together and remember loved ones lost to cancer or celebrate the lives of those who

have survived. At the same time, they are helping to make a difference to people with cancer, right now.

She added: “Our Race for Life events have been women-only since they started, over 25 years ago.

But we now feel the time is right to open them up so that everyone - women, men and children – has the chance to participate together.

“One in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer, at some point during their lifetime. Sadly, this means nearly everyone is touched by the disease, either directly or through a loved one or friend.

“To make a significant difference in the fight against cancer we need to harness as much energy and commitment as possible – so what better way than involving everyone in the community in our events.”

Annie continued: “This year, we’re urging mums, dads, nans, grandpas, brothers, sisters, friends and workmates to show their support by joining the Race for Life. It’s a perfect example of everyday people doing an extraordinary thing – uniting in a common cause to beat cancer.”

To enter Race for Life today visit raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770.

30% Off the Joining Fee at Easter

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Stevenage airport taxiS

Business gone slow?

Let us help!

Stevenage Airport Taxis offer the most reliable and professional airport transfer service in and around the Stevenage area. We have several licensed vehicles that can cater for up to 8 passengers. We also provide a transport service for weddings, long distance journeys and any occasion day or night leisure trips.

Please visit our website for any bookings or quotations

www.stevenageairporttaxis.co.uk or call

01438 420420 Online Bookings • Credit Cards Accepted

Advertising in The Villager is easy. To find out more call Nigel on 01767 261122 or email nigel@villagermag.com

We’re passionate about

fulfilling residents’

lives

At Knebworth, we offer residential, nursing and respite care, and all-round support to make things easier.

To find out more about living at Knebworth, call us on 01438 893557 or visit careuk.com/knebworth

Fulfilling lives

Knebworth care home 59 London Road, Woolmer Green, Knebworth, Hertfordshire SG3 6JE careuk.com/knebworth 28

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Dear Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice

I have a long-term health condition but I recently had my Personal Independence Payment (PIP) reduced after a reassessment. I want to challenge the decision - where do I start?

There are two stages to challenging your PIP assessment decision. The first stage is known as mandatory reconsideration and involves asking the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to take a second look at your assessment decision.

Normally, you’ll need to contact the DWP within a month of your assessment decision being made, and it’s best to do so in writing. Under some circumstances, you can ask for mandatory reconsideration up to 13 months from your assessment decision date.

Your letter should list all the reasons why you don’t think your PIP award should be reduced. Make sure you provide evidence to back up each point you make, such as practical examples, medical records and supporting letters from specialists who are treating you. If you don’t have the required evidence available, you can submit it separately at a later date.

Once the DWP has looked again at your assessment decision, you’ll receive a Mandatory Reconsideration Notice which says if your request has been successful or not. If it is, your original award will be reinstated and your payment backdated.

If you’re unsuccessful, you could choose to progress to the second challenge stage. This is where you appeal your assessment decision by taking your case to tribunal. For help filling in the tribunal form and preparing for your hearing, contact your nearest Citizens Advice or visit the website.

For more information on your local Citizens Advice office or how to volunteer with us, please go to: www.stevenagecab.org.uk or email recruitment@castevenage.org.uk

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

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Finance

Open banking:

What’s in it for you?

By Ann Haldon Open banking has heralded something of a revolution in the retail banking industry in the UK. It offers protection if you decide to share personal banking information with authorised third parties, and as a bank customer could offer you access to financial tools and resources that make money management easier.

So why has open banking been introduced, and how might it affect you in day-to-day life?

Why introduce open banking?

An investigation into the retail banking market by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) revealed insufficient competition between the larger, more established banks and newer entrants.

It was found ‘traditional’ banks were not trying sufficiently hard to retain or win customers, whilst new banks were finding growth particularly challenging. The CMA wants the industry as a whole to be more competitive, and also to make better use of advancing technology for the benefit of customers.

How does open banking work in practice?

When you sign up to a third-party provider’s service, they request permission to access your bank account. If this is provided, your bank is contacted and the instruction processed. The FCA publishes a list of registered providers, with two different types of service being on offer:

Open banking can help you find the best deals Account information services This could include budgeting assistance, being able to view all the information from different bank accounts in one place or receiving recommendations for financial products based on an assessment of your spending habits and transactional history.

Payment initiation services Payment initiation services allow you to make payments directly from your bank account without having to use MasterCard or Visa as an intermediary.

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What are the potential benefits of open banking?

Open banking can help you find the best deals and most suitable products based on your financial habits and regular payments. It also provides a framework to help you budget and better manage your money.

From a security perspective, you won’t be asked to share any login details other than with your bank, and you remain in control of the process from start to finish. You can limit the access for third parties to a defined period of time and revoke it whenever you wish.

Are there any downsides?

One potential downside of open banking is the threat that fraudsters could gain access to your bank account information. Security of your data as it’s transferred and used by other firms is a legitimate concern and you would need to contact your bank to find out their policy in this event.

The new legislation is designed to offer protection if you are targeted, however. It’s also crucial to ensure third party providers are regulated by the FCA, and you can search the Financial Services Register online or the Open Banking Directory to find out.

The main point to remember about open banking is that you don’t have to allow any third-party access to your bank account. It’s a system that only works on express permissions but one that could, in theory, help you make the most of your money. www.gov.uk/government/publications/retailbanking-market-investigation-overview blog.yoyowallet.com/open-banking-benefits www.moneysavingexpert.com/banking/openbanking register.fca.org.uk https://www.openbanking.org.uk/customers/ regulated-providers

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Garden View

By Rachael Leverton

Open Your Garden This month I’m going to talk about The National Garden Scheme. This wonderful initiative gives garden-lovers unique access to more than 3,500 exceptional private gardens in England and Wales. It also raises money for nursing and health charities through admission fees, teas and cake.

Beneficiaries include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK and The Queen’s Nursing Institute.

By opening your garden to visitors, you’ll give people a great day out, and raise money to help those in need. Even better you’ll connect with a community of like-minded garden-owners, all passionate about their beautiful gardens.

Is your garden worth visiting?

Do friends and family wax lyrical about your plot?

Do neighbours ask for advice and cuttings? Do you sometimes wish you could show other people the result of all your hard work? If you answered yes to these questions, then it’s very likely other people would love to see your garden too.

It might seem a somewhat daunting experience but opening your garden to the public can be very

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enjoyable. Many people get the bug and open their gardens year after year. Most people start by opening once in a year, but many go on to open twice a year, to show off their garden in different seasons.

You don’t need a big garden. There are some tiny plots in the NGS. What matters is quality, character and interest.

NGS will support you all the way with their network of helpful, friendly volunteers. Initially you’ll be visited by one of the team during the season you feel your garden would look best.

And if you don’t feel as though garden is worthy of being part of the scheme, why not visit open gardens in your area to gain inspiration, hints and tips, make new gardening friends, and raise a bit of money for charity.

Happy Gardening Call 01483 211 535 to speak to one of the NGS team Or visit www.ngs.org.uk

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Local News

Rehoming Appeal Gino

This is Gino, a friendly tabby and white boy who is about 7 years old. He is neutered, microchipped and vaccinated and would like a home where he is the only pet. He has not been used to living with young children, but he would probably be fine with older children.

He likes people, loves to be fussed and can be a real “lap cat�. Gino will make a great companion.

If you would like to find out more about Gino please contact Liz on 01767 681157.

Alternatively, please email Philippa at info.rats@gmail.com who will be pleased to forward your enquiry onto the team.

View other dogs, cats and small mammals currently in our care for re-homing 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.

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Pets

Animal Stories It’s been a quiet few weeks for our Branch with very few animals coming into our care, but we now have these two lovely ladies looking for their new forever homes. Two very different cats that are both looking for their perfect match.

First of all is our tortoiseshell tabby cat, Tinks. At approximately four years old, she came into our care unneutered therefore has likely had previous litters of kittens. Now spayed, has made a full recovery and is ready to find a new family. Tinks found herself coming into our care due to not getting along with her previous owner’s partner, however since being with her foster carer she has been fine with the male of the household therefore we know she doesn’t have a problem with males in general! She is a very sweet girl who is friendly, very chatty, likes to play and would be suitable to most family homes. Preferably not with a dog, but somewhere she can go out and explore.

We have had a few enquiries for this gorgeous girl, but unfortunately not yet the right ones for her.

Shelley is also looking for a new home to retire to after coming to us under very sad circumstances.

Both of her previous owners sadly passed away within just a month of each other, leaving Shelley and her three cat friends’ homeless, ending up in our care. Her three friends have all found new loving homes to go to, but at the ripe old age of 12

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and the oldest of the bunch, Shelley is yet to have her second chance. When she arrived with us poor Shelley had very itchy skin and her coat was quite patchy, but after receiving some flea treatment she is flea free and back to normal. She will need regular treatment going forward to maintain her now lovely coat.

It has taken Shelley a while to settle into our cattery. Having been with her previous owners her whole life she has found it all a little stressful so we are keen to find her a quiet, loving home to go to. Although shy, she does like a fuss when sat with calmly and quietly, and will need a home that will give her time to settle in properly. She is used to being an indoor cat and is likely to spend the majority of her time indoors, however could go out into a secure garden for a little explore. Her ideal home would be an adult only home.

For more information about either of these lovely ladies including enquiries about adoption or anything else, please contact us by email at adopt@rspcabedsnorth.org.uk or by phone 01234 266965. To keep up to date with the animals in our care visit our website www.rspca.org.uk/local/bedfordshire-northbranch or our facebook and instagram pages @rspcabedsnorthbranch

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01920 463 302 Dream Doors East Herts, 5 Star Street, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 7AA

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Food & Drink

Salted Caramel

Hot Cross Buns

These sweet and sticky hot cross buns use Shaken Udder Salted Caramel Milkshake instead of milk and chocolate chips in place of raisins to create a luxurious take on an Easter classic!

Makes: 10 Prepare: 1 ½ hours Cook: 12 minutes Ingredients 500g pack white bread mix 50g butter 50g golden caster sugar 100g milk chocolate chips 200ml Shaken Udder Salted Caramel Milkshake 100ml water 100ml milk 1 large egg For the crosses & decoration: 3 tbsps plain flour 2 tbsps water Golden syrup, melted, for brushing 1. Tip the bread mix into a bowl and stir in the sugar. Rub in the butter with your fingertips, then add the chocolate chips.

2. In a measuring jug, pour in the milkshake and water, then beat in the egg and transfer onto the dried ingredients. Mix to a very moist dough (the wetter the better).

3. Leave for 5 minutes then cut into 10 equal pieces and roughly shape into buns with oiled hands (this helps to stop the mixture sticking too much – try not to use extra flour as it will toughen the dough).

4. Space the buns apart on 2 greased baking sheets and cover loosely with cling film.

Leave the buns in a warm room until they’ve risen to about half the size again (this will take anything from 45 minutes to 1¼ hours, depending on how warm and moist the environment is).

5. When the buns are risen, heat the oven to 220ºC/fan 200ºC/Gas Mark 7 and make the crosses. Mix the flour with the water to make a paste. Pour into a plastic food bag and make a tiny nick in one of the corners. Pipe crosses on each bun.

6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until risen and golden. Brush with golden syrup. The buns will keep fresh for a day, and after that are best toasted.

Cook’s Tip Using a pre-prepared white bread mix cuts down on the time factor, but still produces delicious results.

Shaken Udder Salted Caramel Milkshake is available in 330ml bottles from Tesco, Waitrose and Ocado. For more information visit www.shakenudder.com

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

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HERTS OVEN CLEAN Herts Oven Clean is a domestic oven cleaning specialist in Hertfordshire.

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Ovens, Hobs, Grills, Extractors, Agas, Microwaves and Gas Barbeques.

Call Richard on 01438 813492 Bring a sparkle to your kitchen today.

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Garden

Hiring a Tree Surgeon Tree surgeons plant, maintain and perform hazard assessments on trees. They prune or cut down trees where necessary. It can be a dangerous job, involving the use of power tools, a lot of climbing and working at height. Yet surprisingly anyone can call themselves a tree surgeon!

So, it’s up to you to research the company or individual carefully before hiring them.

What qualifications should you look for?

The National Proficiency Tests Council (NPTC) is part of the City & Guilds group and is the governing body which issues certificates of competence for tree surgeons. As a minimum, any tree surgeon you hire should hold the following certificates: CS30 – Maintenance of the chainsaw, on site preparation and basic cross cutting CS31 – Fell and process small trees CS38 – Climb a tree and perform aerial rescue CS39 – Use of a chainsaw from a rope and harness First Aid at Work You should ask if the tree surgeon works to British Standards and see if he or she can name the relevant ones. The two main British standards for tree work are: British Standard 3998:2010 Tree work.

Recommendations British Standard 5837:2012 Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction – Recommendations It’s also worth asking whether they have any other qualifications - like a relevant degree, additional

NPTC certification, or whether they are a member of the Arboricultural Association (AA), the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) or the Royal Forestry Society?

The difference between an arborist and a tree surgeon is education. The International Society of Arboriculture has developed a certification program and testing that gives the individual the distinction of being called a Certified Arborist. The responsibility of being a Certified Arborist means maintaining the educational credits every year.

These are highly skilled and qualified individuals who care about trees.

Any contractor should provide you with a free quotation, in writing. This should break down exactly what’s included in the price. For example, does the final price for the job include the hire of any equipment, stump grinding, taxes, and the clearance and disposal of waste?

They will also be able to demonstrate a thorough understanding of how the law applies to their job.

Take a look at the equipment your chosen tree surgeon brings with him to the job - and how he uses it. In particular: Any worker should be wearing the right personal protective equipment. This should typically include a helmet with visor and ear protection, chainsaw boots and chainsaw trousers. Anyone working up in a tree should be wearing - and using - a harness and a rope.

Follow our tips and any contractor you employ should do a tree-mendous job.

By Ian Robbins

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43

Local News

A new Fundraising Manager has joined Macmillan Cancer Support working across Hertfordshire.

Caitlin Ashdown’s role involves working with local volunteers, companies, individual supporters, groups and schools who get involved with raising awareness and money for the charity.

She said: “Cancer affects one in two people in the UK. Our local services are tailored to the specific needs of population based on cancer incidence and unmet needs.

Macmillan’s services are over stretched and are not currently reaching the growing number of people living with cancer.”

“Macmillan’s ambition is to be there for everyone living with cancer,

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providing tailored support at the times people need it most. However, with 16 people receiving a diagnosis every day in Hertfordshire, and the number of people living with cancer increasing, we are sadly not reaching two thirds of people when they first hear the devastating news “you have cancer”.”

With no government funding, Macmillan relies on generous donations from the public. The charity would love to hear from people interested in hosting an event for Macmillan or becoming a volunteer.

“If you’re looking at holding your own fundraising event we would love to hear from you to find out how we can support you in raising money to support Macmillan in Hertfordshire.”

To find out how you, your business or social group could get involved and really make a difference to people affected by cancer in Hertfordshire contact Caitlin Ashdown on cashdown@macmillan.org.uk To access support from Macmillan visit www.macmillan.org.uk or call 0808 808 00 00.

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“Quality is not expensive, it’s priceless”

Extensions, Refurbishments, Loft and Garage Conversions, Landscaping and General Building Internal and external work with many local references View our testimonials at www.hertfordshirebuilders.co.uk

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www.hertfordshirebuilders.co.uk Call Richard on 07818 061505 To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Life Begins...

Music and Dementia: Breaking the Silence

By Kate McLelland Your first kiss, that devastating relationship break-up or the holiday of a lifetime: music has the power to evoke memories in ways that nothing else can. But what if you can no longer remember key events in your life? Recent research has shown the remarkable effect music can have on dementia patients, many of whom have lost the ability to communicate.

Children respond to music at an early age, before words and language are developed, so it’s not surprising that music can still provoke a powerful reaction when our verbal capabilities have been reduced or lost.

Sound science Listening to music can lift your mood by stimulating the release of dopamine, a chemical neurotransmitter that helps to control the brain’s reward and pleasure centres. In a 2011 study

by McGill University in Montreal, participants’ dopamine levels rose up by 9% when they were listening to music they liked.

When adults come together as a group to sing or listen to a piece of music, a similar effect can be found.

Seeing is believing A YouTube video viewed over two million times shows an American man called Henry, living in residential care, who for ten years barely communicated with his carers and family members. The video shows that after listening to the music he enjoyed as a young man on an iPod, Henry is literally ‘restored to life’: singing, moving his body and giving spirited answers to the questions posed by an interviewer.

Chreanne Montgomery-Smith had a similar experience while working in a nursing home, when she noticed that residents responded

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Scientists have discovered that their bodies release the hormone oxytocin (the effect of this ‘bonding hormone’ can be seen when a parent sings a lullaby to their child) and this shared experience can create strong ties of friendship and community.

Children respond to music before words and language are developed

positively to music.

“One of the activities I did with them was a quiz which involved playing familiar tunes,” explains Chreanne in an interview with Age UK. “The first week I did it nobody sang, the second week a few people joined in. By the third week everybody was singing along. It made me realise that people with dementia had a special ability to remember songs.”

She went on to found Singing for the Brain, which is run by the Alzheimer’s Society. This initiative aims to boost confidence, selfesteem and quality of life for people with dementia and their carers through interactive singing sessions.

Scientific research into the effect of music on dementia sufferers has yet to reach any definite conclusions, but according to Chreanne Montgomery-Smith, the benefits of bringing music into the lives of patients is clear: “Even if people with dementia can’t talk, they may be able to sing, whistle, clap or tap their feet.

It helps them, and their carers, to feel life is worthwhile.”

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Codeword 1

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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.

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n i t l ham F e o J Plasterers

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Health & Fitness

Seven Reasons to Join a Gym Today Health benefits – Regular exercise has been proven to reduce your risk of cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease. It’s also been proven to increase your good blood cholesterol and improve mental health.

Stronger mind – Exercise actually increases brain function. Because it improves the flow of blood to your brain it helps the brain remain healthy, increasing the ability to grow new nerve fibres and replace damaged ones, thus reducing your risk of Alzheimer’s.

Weight management – Exercise helps to burn unwanted fat and increase muscle mass, helping you control your weight and maintain it at a healthy level.

Motivation – Committing to a regular workout is not easy. And sometimes when we don’t get quick results, we tend to give up. At a gym you will see and meet people like you, slowly building towards their goal. That sense of being part of a like-minded community is very motivating.

Socialising – Some of those people you nod and smile at in the gym will go on to become friends. The gym is an excellent place to hang out with people whose goals are aligned with yours.

Uninterrupted workout routine – While your running or cycling routine might be interrupted by the weather, if you’re a gym member you can simply rock up there and exercise all year long.

Professional guidance – Good gyms have well-trained professional staff who can instruct you how to use equipment safely and give advice about technique and nutrition.

Pop along to your local gym today and start reaping the benefits of regular exercise. By Louise Addison

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n O s ’ t Wha In April

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

1, 8, 15 & 29 April Stevenage New Pathways 1-4pm Friends Meeting House Cuttys Lane, Stevenage £2 inc. hot drink & biscuits. Counselling support group. A friendly place to meet and talk over issues in a positive way. Maybe go for walks, bring in speakers, form a craft group. Tel: 07429 831060 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 April Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-11pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Branch Out meets every Monday night. It was formed in 1995 to bring together single, divorced, widowed and separated people, aged 40 upwards, from the Herts, Beds and Bucks area. The club organises regular event,s day and weekend trips and holidays.

Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 Web: www.branch-out.org.uk 1, 8, 15 & 29 April Staplers Country Dance Club 8-10pm St John’s Community Hall, Hitchin Staplers is a social folk dance club. It’s easy to start as all the dances are walked through first. We are a friendly group and you will be made very welcome. Car parking is available next to the hall. We meet every Monday apart from bank holidays and some school holiday dates so we shall not be meeting on Easter Monday. Tel. 01462 624144 or 01462 680995 (note new telephone number) Web: www.staplers.org.uk 1 & 29 April Stevenage Choral Society 7.45-9.45pm Stevenage Music Centre, Nobel School, Stevenage The society meets every Monday during term time. No auditions or ability to read music required just a love of singing great music. New members welcome - come and try us out.

3 April North Herts Association of the National Trust 7.30pm Christchurch, Bedford Road, Hitchin Visitors £2 on the door. ‘From Scythes to Suburbia - Impact of the Railways to the Chilterns’, by Dr Rudi Newman, a Transport Historian and Author, and editor of Hertfordshire Constabulary Great War Society.

Non-members welcome. Membership of the National Trust not necessary. Tea and coffee served during the evening. Second-hand books and home-made preserves are on sale at every meeting.

Tel: Mrs Colette House 01462 815585 Email: colettehouse@gmail.com 4 April The Arts Society North Herts Talk 11am & 2pm The Spirella Ballroom, Letchworth £7 on the door. Talk on ‘Sir Christopher Wren’ and the English Baroque by Jo Walton.

Email: theartssociety.nh@gmail.com Web: www.theartssocietynorthherts.org.uk 4, 11, 18 & 25 April The Hitchin Thursday Club 9.30am-12 noon St John’s Community Hall, Hitchin A friendly group which meets every Thursday morning for recreational painting, drawing, etc.. The group is very easy going in its attitude to art - only doing your own thing. Still Life and raffle every month. No qualifications required - just come along with your drawing gear and you’ll receive a very warm welcome. Tel: Pauline 01767 315553

4, 11, 18 & 25 April Stevenage Plus Social Group 8.15pm for 8.30pm Holiday Inn Express (opposite Matalan), Stevenage £2 - first night free Stevenage Plus Social Group is a fun and friendly social group with members in their 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 April 30s and 40s from Stevenage, North Herts Stevenage Bridge Club and surrounding areas. We have a varied 7.30pm Priory Nursery, Stanmore Road, programme of events on Thursday and Old Stevenage Saturday evenings as well as day trips and To play Duplicate Bridge. A host system is run weekends away. New members always to find partners, if required. A wide level of welcome. Tel: 01438 231550. ability play at the club.

Email: welcome@stevenage.plus Tel: Phil Cooper 07957 813434 Web: www.stevenageplus.co.uk

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4, 11, 18 & 25 April Sapphire Social Club 8.30pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin We are a small and friendly group for single people generally aged 50 and above. We offer a variety of social events during the month and the opportunity to meet and make new friends. Potential new members are warmly welcome to come along and meet us with no joining fee for the first two months.

Tel: Joyce 07952 678021 or Ian 07900 890583 Web: www.sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk 4, 11 & 25 April Roundabouters Country Dance Club 8-10pm Friends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage Friendly club for English country dancing. We welcome new members, both beginners and experienced. All dances walked through; club and guest callers ensure a varied programme.

Tel: 01438 727239 Email: roundabouters@live.co.uk Web: www.roundabouters.org.uk 5 April RSPB Hitchin & Letchworth Local Group 7.30pm ‘The Settlement’, Nevells Road, Letchworth Garden City Local group members free, Visitors £3 ‘Moths Home and Away’ with Andy and Melissa Banthorpe. Andy and Melissa are the moth recorders for Bedfordshire. Their talk covers some of the moths in our area and how to find them, as well as some special species to be found in North Wales. Tel: 01763 249459 Email: martinrjspc@hotmail.com 5, 12 & 26 April Springfield House Friday Bridge Club 1.30pm Springfield House (the home of the Old Stevenage Community Centre) To play cut-in Chicago Bridge. Play is informal and friendly. Tel: Richard Bean 01438 221517 6 April North Herts Guild of Singers 7.30pm St Mary’s Church, Hitchin Tickets £14. JS Bach: St John of Passion sung in English. Conductor: Stephen Bullamore.

Evangelist: Mark Wilde. Musica Donum Dei. Tickets from David’s Bookshop, Hitchin Initiative, by telephone or online.

Tel: 01462 790210 or 01438 861185 Web: www.nhgs.org.uk

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n O s ’ t Wha In April

Deadline for What’s On entries is the 12th of the previous month.

What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.com

9 & 23 April Hitchin & District Probus Club 12 noon for 1pm Priory Hotel, Hitchin Social club for retired and semi-retired professional and business men which meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month for lunch. New members welcome.

Tel: Roger Burt 01438 351891 Email: roger@mazda20.plus.com 10 April Letchworth Chamber Music Concert 7.45 pm Howgills Friends Meeting House, 42 South View Tickets £15, Students & Under 18s £7 Concert by Luba Tunnicliffe (viola) and Gamal Khamis (piano), will play sonatas by Hummel (sonata in E flat), Rebecca Clarke, Hinderminth (sonata Op. 25 No. 4) and Brahms (Op. 120, No. 1).

Tickets available on the door.

Web: www.letchworthmusicclub.co.uk 12 April Unicorn Ceilidh 7.30-11pm St Mary’s Church Hall, Church Street, Baldock Adults £10, Concessions and family tickets available. With The English Contra Dance Band and Mike Courthold. Ceilidh dances are great fun, easy to learn. Our combination of the finest live bands, top callers and a bar serving local Real Ale and Cider plus wine and soft drinks guarantee an excellent, fun-filled evening for all.

Email: enquiries@unicornceilidhs.org.uk Web: www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk Tickets: www.ticketsource.co.uk/unicornceilidhs 14 April Stevenage Local Group & Hitchin & Letchworth Local Group RSPB Coach Trip Coach fares Adults £15.50 Under 18s £7.75 Joint coach trip to RSPB Pagham Harbour.

This Sussex coastal reserve acts as a residence or re-fuelling stop for the many species of returning summer visitors. Coach pick up points: Letchworth: 7.30am; Hitchin: 7.45am and Stevenage: 7.55am. Extra fee at RSPB Reserve for non-members. Booking essential. Tel: 01462 451320 Email: martinrjspc@hotmail.com Web: rspb.org.uk/groups/ hitchinandletchworth

16 April Stevenage RSPB Local Group 7.30pm The Friends Meeting House, Cutty’s Lane, Stevenage RSPB Members £3, Non-members £3.50, Under 16s 50p. A second visit by Dr Peter Warne. His talk this time is entitled ‘African Wildlife Beyond Safari Tourism’. There will also be a Bring-and-Buy plant and flower stall at this meeting. Tel: 01438 226014 Web: www.rspb.org/groups/Stevenage 18 April Stevenage RSPB Local Group trip to Hoddesdon Woods 9.30am A car trip for a Spring morning walk looking for woodland birds, migrants and wild flowers. Meet in Ermine Street Martins Green car park at 9.30am. Turn west off A1170 at roundabout into Cock Lane. (park on right after 1.7 miles). OS map Ref: 166/TL 347077. Nearest Post Code EN11 8GG. Tel: Leader Paul Collis 01438 861547 19 April Stevenage Survivors Poetry Group 7.30pm Quaker Friends Meeting House £2 inc. drink & biscuits 26 April Hitchin Book Club 5pm Orange tree, Hitchin Admission £2. A friendly group who meets the last Friday of each month. No pressure to read books just turn up for a drink and chat.

Web: hitchinbookclub.simdif.com or www.meetup.com/Hitchin-Book-Club/ 27 April Weston Music Society Concert 7.30pm Weston Parish Church, SG4 7DJ Tickets £16 inc. programme & interval drink, Under 19s free, 19-25 years £5 Vida Guitar Quartet (classical guitar). The UK’s best known and finest guitar quartet, just returned from USA tour, play Bach, de Falla, Vaughan Williams and more.

Tel: 01462 790573 Email: felicitylowe@yahoo.co.uk Web: www.westonmusicsociety.org.uk or https://www.wegottickets.com

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

25 May Celebration of Disability Sports Activities 10am-4pm Riverside Square, Bedford Come and try a different sport with demonstrations, a chance to meet Paralympic athletes, an information desk and live entertainment. Continuing Bedford’s connection to disability sports brought about by the 2012 Paralympic Games when a training camp was located there. The event seeks to break down some of the barriers that many disabled people perceive make it more difficult for them to take that first important step into sport. Everyone welcome.

Until 24 November The British Schools Museum 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin Adults £5.50, Children 5-17 £3, Under 5s free The British Schools Museum re-opens for public visits. Normally open on Fridays 10am–4pm, Saturdays 10am–4pm and Sundays 2pm–5pm but please check the website for details of temporary changes to regular opening hours and of special activities and extra opening times during school holidays. Last entry time for the museum is 30 minutes before closing time.

Discounts available for family groups. On the first Sunday of each month you can enjoy a Victorian lesson at no extra charge. Lessons start at 2.30 and 3.30pm - don’t be late!

Advance booking recommended.

Tel: 01462 420144 Website: www.britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk Hitchin & Surrounding Areas Fun & Social Stuff A social group based in Hitchin, also including the surrounding areas. Monthly socials, drinks socials, live music, pub quizzes, cinema, etc..

The group is a variety of people over 18.

Email: meetup3@outlook.com Web: https://www.meetup.com/meetupgroup-HVrvZZiQ Hitchin Bridge Club plays duplicate bridge several times each week. All levels of experience welcomed, hosts are available at some sessions for players without a partner. Workshops each month on topics for improving players.

Tel: Margaret 01462 623447 Email: mee.hitchin@ntlworld.com Web: hitchinbridgeclub.org.uk

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Technology

Don’t be an April Fool

Beware the tech scams trying to trick you

Unlike April Fools’ Day, which ends at noon, online trickery goes on all day every day. Some fraud is easily spotted but others can be really convincing.

One of the most common kinds of trickery is ‘phishing’, which is when you receive official-looking emails from what appears to be your bank or a big-name website. The email usually says there’s something wrong with your account: click here to log in and fix it. But the link goes to a sophisticated fake, and if you enter your details the fraudsters can then use your details on the real website.

That’s bad enough if it’s just one site, but many people use the same password on lots of different ones. If the fraudsters get your details for one website, they can then get into all the other sites you use.

To prevent that from happening you can do a number of things.

Firstly, never use the same password on more than one site and use the password manager

built into Apple Macs, iPads and iPhones or use a third-party password manager such as 1Password, LastPass or Dashlane.

Secondly, set up two-factor authentication. Sites from Google, Microsoft and other big names enable you to supplement your password so that when anybody tries to log in, a code is sent to your phone. No code, no entry.

Thirdly, invest in security software. Look for ‘anti-phishing’ in the features list: that means incoming emails are scanned against a list of known offenders.

It doesn’t get rid of every fake email but it does filter most.

Finally, be suspicious. Your bank will never email you if there’s a security problem or other issue with your account; similarly Apple or Microsoft don’t remotely monitor your computer and contact you if they find problems. If in doubt, phone the company or visit their website by typing its address into your web browser.

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

Sometimes the fraudsters will phone you. They’ll say they’re BT, or Amazon, or Apple, or Microsoft, and their goal is to get you to download and install a program which they say will fix your problems. It won’t: it enables them to take control of your computer and either get your personal details or lock it up until you agree to pay a ransom.

These calls are never genuine.

Other scams are really old, but they’ve been updated for the digital age. Fraudsters misrepresent items on online shopping or auction sites, or they run offers for too-good-to-betrue deals as Facebook adverts – recent ads offered mountain bikes worth more than £500 for less than £50. There were no bikes, of course, and because the fraudsters weren’t in the UK anybody they fooled would find it exceptionally difficult to get their money back. Stick to reputable sites and go with your gut: if it seems too good to be true, it usually is.

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SHIRON

Domestic Appliances Repairs of

Washing Machines Tumble Dryers Dishwashers Electric Ovens Electric Cookers Electric Hobs VAT Registered Specialist in Hotpoint, Indesit, Ariston, Creda and Whirlpool appliances.

Contact RONNIE Tel: 01438 720 304 Mobile: 07396 579717

Email: rohintoncooper@hotmail.com

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March’s Puzzle Solutions and Winners Last Month’s Crossword Winner Mrs T Wood from Kimbolton Kelmarsh Competition Winners

Miss A Morris from Pegsdon, Mrs J Nagel from Buckden, J Manning from Gamlingay, Mrs M Dunne from Easton, and M Eldreo from Langford

Easy

Hard

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The Villager Prize Crossword

Prize

£25

Across 1 Protected from harm (4) 3 Ordinary; occurring regularly (8) 9 Animation (7) 10 Answer (5) 11 Go into (5) 12 To splatter, spray with liquid (6) 14 Nearest the bottom (6) 16 Person in charge of a newspaper (6) 19 Centre (6) 21 Striped animal (5) 24 Acting family, Sir John and Hayley (5) 25 Under (7) 26 Young frogs (8) 27 Fewer in number (4)

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

16th April 2019 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

Down 1 Covertly (8) 2 Initial, original (5) 4 Disappear (6) 5 Rustic, in the countryside (5) 6 Down payment (7) 7 Child’s toy on a string (2-2) 8 Tennis playing areas (6) 13 Respires (8) 15 Spun around (7) 17 Sets of twelve (6) 18 Small stone (6) 20 Dance hall, nightclub (5) 22 Responsibility, guilt (5) 23 Miss out (4)

Name: Tel:



Address:

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Books

Book Review

By Kate Duggan The Woman in the Window

by A. J. Finn

Dr Anna Fox is agoraphobic and lives alone. She spends her days watching films, talking to people online and spying on the neighbours. She also drinks a lot of wine and is rather slapdash with her medications. So when she thinks she’s witnessed a serious crime, how can she make people believe her? And can she really trust her own judgement? A slow-burning thriller. Read it before the film comes out this autumn.

Bird Box

By Josh Malerman

Malorie is taking the children on a journey down the river. They will all need blindfolds, because even a glimpse at what waits outside could kill them. ‘Boy’ and ‘girl’ have never seen a tree or the sky, but at four years old they’re trained to listen very, very carefully, because it’s not just monsters that can kill you. This atmospheric thriller was a hit on Netflix and the book is even better. Expect a tense, rollercoaster of a ride.

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine

By Gail Honeyman Eleanor has an ordinary job, in an ordinary town. But to her colleagues, Eleanor herself is decidedly odd.

When she inadvertently helps an acquaintance to rescue an elderly man, Eleanor discovers there may be more to life than just existing. A beautiful book about the importance of human connections. The film is currently in development, starring Reese Witherspoon as Eleanor.

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Scribe to Screen. Don’t miss out on reading the novel of these TV and film adaptions.

Big Little Lies

By Liane Moriarty

Series two of Big Little Lies is due this June. If you haven’t yet read the book that the first series was based on, now’s the time. It follows three mothers in the run up to a murder investigation. Madeline is fiercely loyal, impetuous and prone to holding a grudge. Celeste is stunningly beautiful but her perfect home life isn’t all it seems. The youngest of the three, Jane, is struggling with a secret from her past. As the three women become closer, a rift grows between the trio and the rest of the kindergarten parents. But is it really big enough to lead to murder? A wry, witty portrayal of modern life.

The Knife of Never Letting Go

by Patrick Ness

In Prentisstown it’s never quiet.

The thoughts of men and animals crowd you wherever you walk. But then Todd finds a patch of silence, where the thoughts of others can’t penetrate, and discovers that everything he believes to be true may be a lie.

The Knife of Never Letting Go is the first book in a series. The film adaptation, Chaos Walking, hit cinemas last month.

Where’d You Go, Bernadette

by Maria Semple

Renowned architect and eccentric Bernadette has disappeared and it seems it’s up to her 14 year old daughter, Bee, to figure out what happened. Bee’s journey will take her all the way to Antarctica. An amusing read told through emails, letters, phone transcriptions and official reports. The film stars Cate Blanchett and Kristen Wiig.

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I D Decorating Painting & Decorating Services Painting – Interior & Exterior Decorating Coving No Job Too Big Or Too Small Fully Insured & Free Estimates Telephone: Ian Dunklin 0790 508 3799

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Premier Painters and Decorators

Premier Painters and Decorators are a professional, punctual and hard working company delivering outstanding quality of work to our clients in and around Stevenage From wallpaper hanging, feature walls, coving and cornice work. We even clean facias, soffits and guttering. (PVC or Wood) If you would like to take advantage of our services, require a quote or advise please do not hesitate to contact us. Be assured when Premier quote a job there are NO HIDDEN EXTRAS. Private and commercial, exterior and interior painting services.

For a free quotation please contact Gary on Tel: 01438 353793 Mob: 07733 227961 Email: info@premierpd.co.uk

www.premierpd.co.uk

Appliance and Electrical Repairs Appliance and Electrical Repairs All makes of washing machines, dishwashers, cookers, hobs and hoods repaired, serviced and sold.

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Bathroom Showroom ...With more than 50 displays of bathrooms, furniture & fittings Free in-house 3D design service Quality products from leading manufacturers Experienced staff offering impartial advice Free delivery within a 20 mile radius of our showroom

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Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS 62

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