Stevenage August 2022 by Villager Mag

VILLAGER The

August 2022

and Town

Life

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

Inside this issue

Mesmerising Morocco Time to Re-Mortgage? Win £25 in our Prize Crossword

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Inside this issue... Floral Country Style

Mesmerising Morocco......................................................4 The (New) Seven Wonders of the World...........................8 Start Swimming this Summer........................................10 Brewing Today: Mount Saint Bernard Abbey..................12 Summer Skin Saviours...................................................14 Time to Re-Mortgage?...................................................17 Gap Year - Pros and Cons................................................18 How do environmental issues affect our health?............21 Five Alive........................................................................22 Choosing a College.........................................................25 Raymond Blanc’s Lemon Cake........................................26 What is value for money in clothing?.............................28 Money on my Mind........................................................31 Floral Country Style........................................................32

Green Fingers.................................................................34 Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot!.....................................................36 There’s more to gardens than plants..............................38 Happy Campers..............................................................41 National Allotments Week.............................................43 Life on the Dark Side......................................................44 Megane E-Tech Electric...................................................47 Puzzle Page....................................................................48 What’s On in August.......................................................50 Stand Up for Fun............................................................52 The Best TV Tech for your Home.....................................55 Villager Prize Crossword.................................................58 Book Review: Al Fresco Reading.....................................60 Useful Numbers.............................................................63

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Travel

By Solange Hando

Mesmerising Morocco Mazes of medinas, saffron-scented souks, sweeping deserts and epic mountain ranges: Morocco is a country of dizzying diversity. The landscapes here spell adventure and the cities are easily some of the most exciting in Africa. It’s not called the ‘Gateway to Africa’ for nothing. Just a mere three-hour flight away from London, a trip to Morocco is the perfect introduction to this mammoth continent, with a tantalising blend of adventure, culture and plenty of sunshine. There’s heaps to explore, so we’ve gathered together the most unmissable experiences to tick off while you’re there. Lose yourself in Marrakech’s medinas Marrakech is a city that sweeps everyone off their feet. Love it or hate it, it’s an assault on your senses, filled with enough sounds, sights and smells to keep

you mesmerised for days. Trace intricate tilework, admire Islamic architecture, get lost amidst the city’s maze of power-pink medinas and stop for some retail therapy in Djemaa El Fna square – where shopping, street food and culture collide. Then there’s the souks: if you’re a sucker for exotic treasures and a bargain, you’ll be happy to hear that Marrakech is one of the best shopping destinations in the world! Soft leather bags, beautiful carpets, colourful spices and a whole host of North African flavours to try: a trip to Marrakech’s markets warrants plenty of extra room in your suitcase – and your stomach! Spend some time in the Sahara Imagine falling asleep beneath a glittering tapestry of stars in the world’s largest desert. Sounds like paradise, right? That’s because few places on Earth

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compare to the Sahara, a sprawling expanse of vast plains and sun-baked dunes that occupy nearly all of North Africa. You can experience the magic of the desert yourself in the south and east of Morocco, with heaps of tours departing from all of Morocco’s major cities. From camel trekking and quad-biking trips to sandboarding and immersive desert camping experiences, there’s something here for every type of traveller. Visit the blue city of Chefchaouen Nestled in the heart of the Rif mountain range, Chefchaouen’s blue-washed buildings easily make it the prettiest and most photographed city in Morocco. The reasons behind the blue aren’t entirely clear: some say the walls were painted blue by the Jews who settled there after World War II, while others swear they were painted this way to keep mosquitoes at bay. Put your camera to good use in the narrow, winding streets of the old medina, and browse the souks for traditional Moroccan trinkets and treasures. The city has become a big hit with backpackers in recent years thanks to its artsy bohemian scene, but it’s still managed to maintain a healthy balance between ease and authenticity. To top it off, Chefchaouen’s close proximity to the Rif mountains also gives you access to beautiful hiking trails, whenever you need them. Relax by the beach Boasting 2,500km of coastline, Morocco offers its fair share of blissful beaches too, but the most popular are found in the resort of Agadir in the south. This bustling city is framed by a beautiful stretch of sand, and is also a popular spot for golfers. Known as the ‘Wind City of Africa’, Essaouira is another popular choice, particularly amongst windsurfers and kitesurfers looking to make the most of the port city’s gusty coastal winds. While the sands here are pleasant, Essaouira is more than just a beach resort. Despite a rise in tourism, the city’s culture and character have remained intact.

Navigate the medina, admire the art galleries and watch the locals working on the electric-blue fishing boats that line the waterfront. Trek the Atlas Mountains Hiking a portion of North Africa’s highest mountain range is an experience not to be missed. The High Atlas runs diagonally across Morocco for almost 1,000km, spanning arid desert landscapes, snowcapped peaks and lush green valleys. The range is also home to Morocco’s nomadic Berber population, who have an indigenous history dating back to at least 10,000 BC. With an elevation of 4,167m, Toubkal in southwestern Morocco is the range’s highest peak and is well worth the three-day climb for the views alone. If you fancy something a little easier, don’t fear – there are scenic trails to suit every fitness level. The best time to visit is from spring through to autumn, although some may find it too hot to comfortably tackle the long-distance routes.

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Travel

The (New) Seven Wonders of the World The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World have all but succumbed to old age or natural disaster – with the Great Pyramid at Giza the only survivor. Thankfully, there’s a new breed of mighty manmade monuments around, and all well within the grasp of any traveller willing to seek them out. 1. CHICHÉN ITZA, MEXICO The ancient city of Chichén Itza is located on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. This well-known Mayan city served as a religious, political and economic centre for several hundred years. The Pyramid of Kulkulkán is probably the most recognised ruin of Chichén Itza, standing at 80ft high and incorporating a total of 365 huge stone steps. 2. CHRIST THE REDEEMER, BRAZIL This statue of Jesus is one of Rio de Janeiro’s most widely recognised monuments. It stands 98.5ft tall atop the summit of Mount Corcovado, which itself rises more than 2,300ft. With an outstretched arm-span of 92ft, and a weight of approximately 700 tonnes, the concrete and soapstone leviathan is the destination of many a pilgrimage. 3. THE COLOSSEUM, ITALY Gladiator contests, group combat, battle reenactments and other productions were staged at the Colosseum to an audience of almost 50,000. Today, even after some renovations in the 1990s, the wear and tear from poor weather, natural disaster and vandalism show, but they can’t take away from this iconic Italian sight. And while you’re there, why not soak up Rome’s unique culture at the same time?

4. THE TAJ MAHAL, INDIA This 42-acre marble mausoleum complex located in Agra is a stunning Indian landmark. Construction started in 1631, spanning more than two decades, requiring more than 20,000 labourers, and costing several million rupees. 5. GREAT WALL OF CHINA, CHINA The Great Wall of China is without doubt a modern marvel and rightfully belongs amongst the other seven Wonders. Contrary to popular belief, the wall isn’t one continuous structure - it’s actually made up of several separate structures that cover approximately 4,500 miles. Pack your walking boots! 6. PETRA, JORDAN Located in south-west Jordan are the ruins of the ancient city of Petra. Massive temples, tombs and monuments have been cut into the surrounding sandstone cliffs and were immortalised in 1989’s Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Perhaps the most impressive Petra structure is the Sik al-Khazneh, an elaborately carved and embellished tomb. 7. MACHU PICCHU, PERU Built in the 15th century, this ancient Incan city is nestled between two peaks – Machu Picchu (Old Peak) and Huayna Picchu (New Peak) at an amazing elevation of 7,710ft. It is often called the lost city of the Incas because it was hidden amidst the lush forest and clouds of Peru for more than three centuries. Now rediscovered, it is a sight to be admired, and one that retains every ounce of mystical promise.

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Sport

Start swimming this summer Whether you used to swim for your county or you’re yet to master breaststroke, swimming is a great way to keep fit and de-stress. The benefits of swimming Swimming has numerous benefits for your health. According to the NHS, regular swimming can reduce your risk of serious illness, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes. It can also help to build muscle strength. And it’s a great stress reliever. But most importantly, swimming is an essential life skill that helps to keep you safe around water. And it can be a lot of fun! All-inclusive Swimming is a low-impact activity, so most people can benefit from it, even if you have mobility issues or joint pain. As Paralympic medallist Matthew Whorwood says, “Swimming is great because it’s non-impact and a good way to get fit without risking injury. Also, once you’re in the pool you’re the same as everyone else, any physical disabilities are irrelevant.” Many swimming pools now have lifts to help wheelchair users in and out of the pool, and sessions aimed at swimmers with disabilities. Learning to swim Almost a third of adults in the UK can’t swim a length. But you’re never too old (or too young) to learn to swim. More than 1,000 centres across the UK offer adult-only swim classes. As well as courses for complete beginners, many centres offer coaching for people who want to improve their techniques, and

advanced classes for swimmers who are training for a triathlon or other event. Whichever camp you’re in, head to www.swimming.org/learntoswim to find an accredited course. Taking your hobby to the next level Are you a competent swimmer who fancies an extra challenge? Why not try competing? Races are usually seeded, which means you’ll be competing against people at a similar level. And results are ranked in five-year age groups. If you’re interested in competing regularly, it might be worth joining a swimming club. As well as helping you to improve your skills, it’s also a great way to meet new people. Visit www.swimming.org/masters to find out more. Where to swim You’ll likely need to become a member of your local leisure centre or private fitness centre to use its pool, but some do offer day passes. If you’re over 60 or on a low income, it’s worth applying for a Passport to Leisure card, which gives you a discount off leisure centre fees. (Some councils run their own scheme instead.) Ask your local leisure centre for details. If you prefer swimming outdoors, there are numerous lidos and community pools around the UK. And, of course, you could also try open-water swimming, in the sea, lakes or pools. Just check that swimming is permitted and always make sure that you have someone with you. You can find advice about open water swimming, and a list of sites, at www.swimming.org/openwater.

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Food & Drink

Brewing Today: Mount Saint Bernard Abbey

A monastery can be a single building or, indeed, a collection of buildings that have living quarters and also places to work, for monks or nuns and usually a place for prayer – possibly a chapel or church, for example. Self-sufficient monasteries can include a school, plus agricultural aspects, manufacturing facilities, plus other activities and pursuits, too. Mount Saint Bernard Abbey is located near Coalville, Leicestershire. This Roman Catholic Trappist monastery was established during 1835. The Abbey Church is dedicated to the Greater Glory of God and recorded as being in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Bernard. Mount Saint Bernard Abbey offers many interesting features for visitors, from both the UK and worldwide origins, throughout the year. The Abbey Shop has numerous, most appealing items and products for sale, including a good number of books, with some authored by the monks. Cards, gifts, pictures, pottery and honey (from their own apiary), are all available and more, such as rosaries, chants and music – perhaps something for a special present? Award-winning TYNT MEADOW ENGLISH TRAPPIST ALE (7.4% vol) is a very popular production, by Mount Saint Bernard Abbey. During 2017/18 space was created for a new brewery, with the production of the beer being carried out by the monks. The labelling for the bottled beer bows to and honours a 12th century Cistercian script, created by Brother Anselm Baker, who was an early monk of the community and an artist of note. The name ‘Tynt Meadow’ reflects and respects connections with the land and monastic life here for nearly 200 years. This full-bodied beer is fermented twice and utilises English barley and hops, plus an English strain of yeast, all to great advantage. The deepish- brown colour has a reddened hue and entices to the gentle aroma, evoking thoughts of dark fruits. I found the beer to be well-balanced, having overtones of chocolate. The very pleasurable mouthfeel continues on, to the palate’s delight, for a memorable finish.

For more details, including Tynt Meadow ale stockists, the excellent website has all information. Mount Saint Bernard Abbey, Oaks Road, Coalville, Leicestershire LE67 5UL Tel: +44 (0) 1530 832298/832022. E-mail: monks@mountsaintbernard.org E-mail: shop@mountsaintbernard.org E-mail: brewery@mountsaintbernard.org www.mountsaintbernard.org www.mountsaintbernardshop.org ways, Enjoy!

As al

ey Trevor Langl

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Beauty

Summer skin saviours

How to banish dry skin before your holiday

By Kate Duggan

Skin looking dry, dehydrated and just plain ‘meh’? Exfoliation is your friend. You’ve got two choices when it comes to facial exfoliation – chemical exfoliators, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and physical exfoliators, such as finely ground rosehip seeds. There are pros and cons to both. Physical exfoliators tend to be more natural and less likely to cause a reaction. However, they’re usually less effective and can be quite rough on your skin. For a great all-rounder, I recommend Liz Earle’s Superskin Microdermabrasion Polish. It uses naturally derived fruit AHAs to dissolve dead skin cells, and powdered pumice to buff away dry patches. My skin is quite sensitive, but I can use this without any issues. It’s £30, but you only need a small amount once a week, so I expect it to last a good six months or more. My skin feels much softer and smoother for days afterwards. When it comes to the skin on the rest of your body, a loofah or body brush can help to tackle dry patches. You can also look for a soap or body wash with exfoliating properties. Eco Warrior’s Body Scrub Bar (£4.50 from www.littlesoapcompany.co.uk) is a good choice. It contains oatmeal to buff, soothe and moisturise dry skin, and other natural ingredients your skin will thank you for. Speaking of oatmeal, have you tried an oat bath?

If not, you’re missing out. Tie a handful of porridge oats into a muslin cloth or the toe of an old pair of tights. Drop it into the bath while the water is running to create a milky bath Cleopatra would be jealous of. Oats soothe irritation so can work wonders on eczema and other skin conditions. Not keen on baths? Oats are a natural cleanser, so you can use the oat parcel instead of body wash in the shower. Afterwards, use a rich body butter or oil to lock in the moisture. You don’t need to spend a fortune on body lotion – a tub of cocoa butter will do the job just as well. We often take ages deciding on a moisturiser or haircare product but give next to no thought on other everyday essentials, like deodorant. Many deodorants and anti-perspirants can have a drying effect on skin and can cause irritation. Why not try swapping to a more natural solution? Milly & Sissy’s deodorant is 99% natural and doesn’t contain aluminium, sodium bicarbonate, parabens and other potentially problematic ingredients. It’s also plastic free. The starter kit (£11.50 from www.millyandsissy. co.uk) contains a glass bottle complete with roller ball and two refill sachets. Pour a sachet into the bottle, add water and shake. Simple. It’s effective at tackling odour and won’t dry or irritate your skin. Your pits (and co-workers) will thank you.

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Finance

Time to remortgage? When a cost goes up tenfold in six months, it’s never good news. The Bank of England base rate that influences most mortgages is only moving in one direction, but what does it mean for homeowners? The Bank of England base rate has gone up four times since December, taking it from 0.1% to 1%. While that technically affects the cost for banks to borrow from the Bank of England and each other, the base rate is also a key component in how much banks charge for mortgages. How does that affect me? To sum up the effects: ‘tracker’ mortgage rates will increase automatically after a base rate rise. Variable rate mortgages are at the bank’s discretion but usually change in line with the base rate. While fixed rate mortgages remain unchanged, the base rate will affect the deals on offer for people looking to remortgage. Should I fix now? Unless you think the base rate is going to fall significantly in coming years – and there’s still not much room for any decrease – remortgaging may well save you cash and give you peace of mind. Don’t forget to take into account any fees, such as an exit fee for ending your current mortgage or an early repayment charge, if you want to leave before a fixed-rate period is up. The latter means you need to time things carefully to minimise overall costs. Working out the best deal and weighing up these

charges can be complicated, so it’s worth considering using a mortgage broker, particularly if you have nonstandard circumstances such as being self-employed or having a patchy credit history. If you’ve still got several years left in a fixed deal, it’s unlikely remortgaging is going to save you money right now. Congratulate yourself on your foresight and/or luck and make a note in your calendar to start planning your next move when you have six months or so left to go. If you are on a variable deal right now, the base rate rises should be a reminder to take another look at fixing. To put things in context, if you’re on a tracker or variable deal with more than £133,333 left to repay, the base rate rises since December are already costing you £100 more each month. And remember that none of that extra money is paying off the loan itself. Every cloud… The good news for all homeowners looking to remortgage is that you’re now a safer bet for lenders than when you first bought. That’s because the amount you still owe (and would need to borrow to remortgage) has fallen while, in most cases, the value of your home has increased. That dramatically reduces the risk for the lender that they’d be unable to recoup their money if they had to repossess and sell your home. There’s no guarantee, but that could mean you can secure a more favourable rate.

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Education

Gap Year - Pros and Cons Is a break from study worth the effort? The trend of taking a gap year – in between A-levels and a degree, or during Higher Education studies – is set to make a prominent return over the next year or so now the spectre of covid has largely been put aside. The usefulness of a gap year largely depends on the individual, but here are some recognised pros and cons when it comes to exploring other avenues for a year. Pros A break from the routine Many students feel they want to explore new horizons before delving back into their studies. At a time when their peers may be out working, earning money and experiencing life away from books and lectures, the incentive to do something else, albeit temporarily, is often strong. Exploring new ideas A gap year can expose students to new subjects, new people, new industries and new places, and this inspiration can often forge stronger ambitions as far as full-time employment goes. A chance to accumulate funds A gap year can offer a great opportunity to earn money in order to fund further studies. At a time when many young adults are feeling the pinch, setting money aside for future years can be a smart thing to do. Impressing employer Many prospective employers will look on a gap year as an indication that a student is keen to

explore non-academic elements that can benefit them in full-time employment later. Volunteering, in particular, shows commendable commitment to others. Improving grades Some students may choose to top up their grades or improve their academic appeal by embarking on additional studies during a gap year, for instance, with a one-year A-level course. Cons The risk of not returning to education For some, a gap year offers a practical glimpse outside of academic study, and it can feel difficult to then return to the regimented processes of education; and the failure to finish studies may be something a person regrets in later life. Loss of friendship group Students who embark on a gap year ultimately meet a wide variety of new people, though stepping away for a period does mean they fall into the year group below, with existing friends then a step ahead and often in different places, academically and geographically. Lack of direction Some students like the appeal of a gap year, but may relent on plans once it starts, and can feel lost when that happens. Universities will look on an unfulfilled gap year in a negative light. Cost Some students find a gap year actually costs them more in the long run.

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Health

How do environmental issues affect our health?

We all know that environmental issues are impacting our planet, but fewer of us are aware of how these same issues can also affect our health. Temperatures are increasing, rainfall patterns are changing and sea levels are rising, all of which increase the risk of heatwaves, floods, droughts and other natural hazards. While the effects of these will vary across the world, they can all lead to poor air quality, changes in the spread of infectious diseases and threats to water quality – and that’s not even touching on the effects on mental health. So where do these issues stem from, and what’s the best way to protect yourself? Air pollution The biggest cause of air pollution around the world is the burning of fossil fuels in power plants. This process releases pollutants, emissions and chemicals into the air, which react with the sun’s UV rays to create smog. Shockingly, twelve of the world’s fifteen most polluted cities are in India, although the country is making progress thanks to its National Clean Air Programme. Air pollution is even a problem in the UK too, with Bristol and Swansea amongst some of the most polluted cities in the country. Prolonged exposure to polluted air has been proven to increase the risk of heart and lung conditions and kidney failure. Wearing masks can help keep harmful fumes at bay, and by car sharing, cycling and using public transport, you can help reduce air pollution in your local town or city. During the first lockdown, levels of dangerous pollutants fell by up to 40% in

towns and cities across the UK in April 2020 alone. Infectious diseases The UK currently houses around thirty species of mosquito, none of which pose any danger to our health. But did you know that rising temperatures could cause foreign mosquito species to colonise parts of the UK? This is because extreme flooding can lead to an expansion of wetlands, which provide new habitats for non-native species. This then increases the risk of diseases rarely seen in the UK, such as dengue. Ticks can also be a concern, with milder winters and springs likely to lengthen the periods ticks are active and biting. It’s always recommended to get any unusual bites checked out by your doctor, especially if you live in an area where Lyme disease is prevalent. Water sanitation Shockingly, it’s been reported that more than 780 million people don’t have access to clean drinking water, with a third of the world’s population also lacking access to proper sanitation services. These issues have been linked to the transmission of a whole host of diseases, including cholera, diarrhoea, hepatitis A, typhoid and polio. Environmental issues have a big part to play. Floods, droughts, changes in precipitation and temperature extremes all result in water scarcity and contamination. So, what can we do to help? By donating as little as £2 a month to Wateraid, you could help build a well or install a tap in a community that suffers from poor water sanitation.

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Parenting

Five Alive It can often feel like a perennial uphill struggle when it comes to getting your young ones to consume their ‘five a day’, so why not try these handy tips below, and see if they don’t help your little ones stave off hunger whilst keeping healthy at the same time. 1. Healthy junk food Try making your own healthy junk food using good quality lean meat for burgers. Kids can join in with the preparation, and if you must relent with a dollop of ketchup then do so. Also consider swapping desserts that are high in refined sugars with easy-tomake fresh fruit ice lollies made from fruit juice and pureed fruits. 2. Proper provenance Some kids can spot a hidden mushroom a mile off, so sometimes it’s best to be upfront about fruit and vegetables. Education is key to any negotiation, so explain to your young ones where their food has come from and why each thing is so good for them. You may well get them more interested in what they are eating. 3. Appearance Try to make sure your child’s food not only tastes good but looks good too.

Mini portions, chicken skewers or bite-sized pieces of fruit will look enticing, even artistic, whilst keeping your kids healthy and boosting creativity at the same time! 4. The fridge shelf Sometimes the fact we reach for junk food or occasional snacks can be simply down to a lack of accessible or appealing alternatives. A low shelf in the fridge with cut-up fresh fruit and other healthy foods means hungry children have somewhere to go that’s easy to get to and packed with nutritious nibbles. 5. Get involved Lay ingredients out in bowls and let your youngsters fill and fold their own wraps, or choose their favourite toppings for tasty homemade pizzas. Even the most uninspiring of meals takes on another dimension when our young people are involved and can take pride in its creation. It’s amazing how being involved in the planning and preparation of a meal can stimulate a child’s appetite too! And a bonus suggestion… Clear the plate or clear up afterwards! Finally, if all else fails, tell your youngsters that those clearing their plates do not need to help with the clearing away afterwards. While it won’t necessarily endear them any more to some of the greens in front of them, it may sway them into polishing off the portion, so in that respect, everyone wins!

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Choosing

Special Report

a college If you or your child is starting Year 11 this September, you’re probably starting to think about the next step – college.

Keep an open mind You might have set your heart on your current school’s sixth form, or on a local college, but it’s still a good idea to explore all your options. The sixth form experience is often very different from what you’ve experienced so far, so don’t discount it just because you’ve had enough of school. Likewise, don’t choose it just because it feels comfortable. Remember, there’s nothing stopping you from applying to a different school’s sixth form or to a college that’s an extra train stop away. You will need to factor in transport costs and travel time though. Subjects First and foremost, you need to decide what subjects you want to study, and in what format. Are you looking to do A-levels or a vocational course? Do you fancy doing an apprenticeship? You’ll need to consider which courses are achievable given your predicted grades, and which ones will help you to achieve your career goals. Have a look at all the different options in your local area. You may find that the perfect course is one you’d never even considered. Once you have a good idea of the route you want to take, you can check which colleges offer it. Past performance Do some research into each of the colleges on your list. How well have they performed over the last few years? What do their Ofsted reports say? Are there

any independent reviews on sites such as www. goodschoolsguide.co.uk? Other considerations How could each college help you to get where you want to be? What links do they have to the industry you want to work in? What are the facilities like for your subject? What kind of well-being and career support do they offer? Open days You’ll want to have a good read of each college’s website and prospectus, but nothing beats a real-life visit. Some colleges can sound great on paper but turn out to be run-down and outdated. Likewise, a modern, hi-tec facility with little consideration for student well-being might not be the best place for you. Go to as many open days as you can, even for colleges you’ve discounted. Open days don’t just help you to judge a particular college, they help you to compare it against others in your shortlist and may give you more questions to consider. Ideally, you’ll want to hear from some of the people who would be teaching you, along with the principal and current students. You’ll want to have a good look around at the facilities, classrooms and workshops, and consider how the place makes you feel. Do you think you’d enjoy studying there? Listen to your gut as well as your head. Does the thought of attending this college excite you?

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Baking

Lemon cake with tea is a grand tradition at Le Manoir aux Quat ’Saisons, and it has been served here for almost 40 years. What I love about the perfect lemon cake is it ’s fresh, zesty and as light as a cloud.

Raymond Blanc’s Lemon Cake Ingredients

Serves 8

For the lemon cake - butter, to grease the tin - 5 eggs - 300g caster sugar - 140ml double cream - finely grated zest of 3 lemons - 25ml dark rum - 1 pinch sea salt - 80g unsalted butter, melted - 240g plain flour - ½ tsp baking powder For the glaze - 50g apricot jam, warmed - finely grated zest of 1 lemon, plus 3 tbsp juice - 150g icing sugar

Step One Lightly grease the loaf tin and line with greaseproof paper. Then, in a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, cream, lemon zest, rum, salt and melted butter. Step Two Sift the flour and baking powder together, then whisk into the egg mixture until smooth, spooning the mixture into the loaf tin and gently level the surface. Bake for 50 minutes, turning the tin around halfway through cooking. To test the cake, insert a small knife into the middle – if it comes out clean, the cake is cooked. Step Three Turn out onto a wire rack and leave to cool for 10 minutes. Step Four Lightly brush the cake all over with the warm jam. The jam creates a barrier, so the lemon glaze is not absorbed. Leave for 5 minutes. Step Five Now mix the lemon zest and juice with the icing sugar in a small pan and warm over a low heat to 35°C, until smooth. If the glaze is any hotter, it will re-crystallise, losing its shine and crispness. Brush the lemon glaze evenly over the top and sides of the cake and leave for a few minutes to set. Step Six Finally, place the cake on a baking tray in the oven, turn off the heat and leave for 3–5 minutes to dry the glaze – it will become translucent. Allow to cool before slicing.

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House of Colour

What is value for money in clothing? What is a wise purchase these days when we’re considering our budgets? Often our fashion choices are a multitude of trade offs and ‘that’ll do’. This path can lead us to a wardrobe which doesn’t get worn and is therefore really no value to us. The adage that we wear 20% of our wardrobe 80% of the time highlights the issue. Buying cheaply is no guarantee of better value when we consider the number of wears we can get out of items, nor is necessarily buying more expensively but there are some tenets to consider which improves the value from our wardrobe: • Only buy an item on sale if you would have bought it at full price. It’s so easy to get swept away by the discount but once that thrill is over, are you actually going to wear it? It’s not a bargain if it sits unworn in your wardrobe. • Consider when, with your current lifestyle, are you going to wear that item. It sounds like a really simple piece of advice but again it’s easy to get side-tracked and interested in wonderful sparkly number but how often are you going to wear it? You might already have enough in that part of our wardrobe to cover those occasions. Often a new accessory can actually make older items in our wardrobe look instantly updated, so they can be a better choice. • You might consider renting items for occasion wear dressing. This is often an area which requires more budget but gets the least wear. With the growing rental options available this could be a better choice. • Are you buying quality or are you buying branding? Quality can be found in your local charity shop or boutique but the brand name isn’t always a great guide to quality. Check the seams and how well finished they are. Look at zips and fastenings to make sure they work and are secure. • Natural fibres – they last better and feel better. When you consider how most of our synthetic fibres are versions of plastic and contribute to the microplastics in our oceans and food chain it makes sense to consider whether they’re our best choice. • Comfort – as I mentioned natural fibres often feel better, keep us cooler in summer, and warmer in

winter. Beyond the material mix do ensure that whatever you’re buying is comfortable when you first try it on. There is no substitute for trying an item on and I would never recommend anyone to buy without trying on. Move around in it and make sure it’s not pulling, and that it sits well. Apparently, we wear an uncomfortable item three times at most before that’s the end of it. Can we afford to be that wasteful? • Make six outfits with any new item you buy. We need our clothing to work hard for us so put it together with other clothes as soon as you can. If it doesn’t work consider whether the colour or style is right for you and whether it should stay in your wardrobe. The best way to avoid a wardrobe you don’t wear? Understand from a professional what suits you. Know what colours and styles suit you so you’re not wasting money on clothes that you don’t end up wearing. That’s the best investment. Article by Jennie Billings – House of Colour House of Colour has a network of stylists to help you update your look – find your nearest at houseofcolour.co.uk/find-a-stylist

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A FREE WILL for Homeowners Protect your home and legacy for your children • • • • • •

Keep your hard-earned wealth within the family Stop your home from being sold to pay for long term Care Fees. Prevent the courts from making your financial and healthcare decisions. If you already have a Will … Is it up to date? Several thousand outdated wills are legally challenged every year. Ensure your parents’ home and property is also protected.

DON’T PUT IT OFF – Don’t let your home and money disappear, make sure your estate goes to your family… leaving “what you want” to “who you want”. CALL 01767 660250 or email info@willandestateplanning.com for more information or to book a free meeting with one of our Will and Estate Planners either in your own home or at our offices. Baystrait Ltd t/a Will & Estate Planning, Baystrait House, Station Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8AL

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Money

Money on my Mind The Martin Lewis column He’s the UK’s leading money saving expert - a journalist and presenter who has kept millions of pounds in people’s pockets as well as lifting the lid on the threats and dangers we need to be aware of as consumers. In this month’s column, Martin Lewis looks at how we can repair our credit score. Let’s be honest, the last couple of years haven’t been kind to our finances. The good news is the ability to rescue and repair that credit rating is within our own hands, and with a concerted plan we can get back to where we want to be. And that’s important – having a good credit rating means gaining access to preferential interest rates; it could be the difference between being able to buy a house, or rent a flat, or not; and it also gives us peace of mind that if an emergency crops up we can lean on financial support. When it comes to improving our credit score, first check your current rating – with the likes of Experian or Equifax – and know what you’re dealing with. When you’ve done that, see about disassociating yourself from others who may be pulling you down with their own chequered credit history - their activity may be negatively impacting yours. Next, get yourself signed up on the electoral roll. It’s a great way for credit agencies to be able to verify who you are and adds a layer of authenticity to any application.

Spring cleaning your finances is another really sensible option. Many of us have old credit cards or bank accounts that we don’t use. They may seem harmless on the face of it, but they all represent risk as far as your credit score is concerned. Next, start investing in your credit future. Using a credit card may seem a peculiar way of improving your credit, but done sensibly it will. And by sensibly, I mean use it for everyday purchases on the specific understanding you’ll clear the balance at the end of each month. Doing this will boost your credit rating and prove to any lender that you can be trusted. Finally, if you can’t afford to clear your full balance at the end of the month, at least pay off more than the minimum payment. Mending your credit score won’t be achieved overnight, but your future self will thank you for your efforts today!

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Home Products

Floral Country Style By Katherine Sorrell

A classic English setting for tea and cake in the garden with all the trimmings. Sun canopy in Pale Rose Ivory Wide Stripe, £48 per metre; Duck Egg, Rusty Rose, Pale Rose, Jute tassels, £24 per metre; Rose Ivory Stripe tablecloth, from £52; Echinacea Rose jug, £62; Indian Wedding round teapot, £52; glass candlestick, £48; Oscar Small Bird candlestick, £38; all Susie Watson Designs.

From blowsy hollyhocks to ditsy daisies, flowers are always inspirational for interior design. Bring the shapes and colours of a country garden or meadow into your home this summer with a range of irresistible homewares. Combine a graphic floral with a wooden bed frame and a naturalfibre rug for a calm and relaxing effect in the bedroom. National History Museum Meadow bedding, available from autumn, Dunelm.

A floral meadow of ditsy daisies in 100% cotton – perfect for drifting off to sleep. Daisy cotton bed linen, from £14, The Secret Linen Store.

Wrap yourself in nature with a 100% wool throw in delicate colours. Light green fern throw, £104, JJ Textile.

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Natural Attraction

This luxury wallpaper depicts sweet songbirds nestled in branches of fresh white blossom. Birdsong wallpaper in Forest, £79 per roll, Fiona Howard.

Add some pretty colour to your kitchen with a floral mug. Green Meadow mug, £8.50, Quince & Cook.

• If you adore the idea of roses around the door, chickens in the yard and a cake baking in the range cooker, then creating a floral country style in your home is perfect for you. Inspired by gorgeous flora and foliage, from dahlias to roses, poppies to cornflowers, this is a soft and pretty look that can be as subtle or as bold as you wish. • This look works beautifully with a traditional room, filled with comfortably plump sofas and armchairs, knitted throws and natural floorings. Accessorise with watercolour paintings, wicker baskets, vintage books and a tray with tea in a proper pot and some home-made cake.

Hand printed and made in Cornwall, this linen cushion perfectly evokes the English countryside. Duck egg blue floral cushion, £50, Helen Round.

For a lovely window treatment, not much could be nicer than softly gathered floral curtains with an adorable trim. Bespoke Curtains in 301 Hollyhocks linen, £135 per metre; trimmed in Olive, Rusty Rose, Pale Rose, Jute tassels, £24 per metre; both Susie Watson Designs.

A perfect flower in shape and colour for a small plate. Emma Bridgewater Flowers Pink Dahlia 6.5in plate, £14, Daisy Park.

• Floral prints, weaves and embroidery are especially suited to bed linens and tablecloths, cushions and throws, but you can also choose them for wallpaper, crockery, curtains and more. • The colours of a garden or meadow in summer can range from soft pastels to vibrant brights. Once you have decided on a colour scheme, stick to the palette and avoid mixing them up. Add creams and browns as a neutral backdrop.

STOCKISTS Dobbies Garden Centres: 0131 5616 406; dobbies.com The French Bedroom Co: 01444 415 430; frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk Homesense: 01923 473 561; homesense.com Made.com: 0845 557 6888; made.com Martin Moore: 0845 180 0015; martinmoore.com Nicholas Engert Interiors: 01488 657 900; nicholasengert.co.uk Ruff And Tumble: 0333 207 9960; ruffandtumbledogcoats.com Sophie Allport: 01778 560 256; sophieallport.com

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Gardening

GreenFingers The Alan Titchmarsh column He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist and all-round horticultural inspiration. This month, Alan Titchmarsh talks about the most common mistakes we make in our gardens. I always say, as a golden rule, prevention is better than cure, so with that in mind here are my top seven gardening mistakes… and how to avoid them! Firstly, you can have too much of a good thing! Less is more when it comes to good gardening, and if you cram too much together it’ll look a mess, or worse still, will die! Another big error is over- and under-watering. Be regimented over your watering routine and adjust it depending on rainfall to ensure your garden is nicely hydrated at all times. Next, always ensure what you’re pulling up are weeds and not slow-developing flowers. We can sometimes find ourselves being particularly ruthless with what grows in our gardens, so remember, everything grows at a different rate and sometimes the most mundane of plants will flourish to become the most beautiful… but only if they’re left in the ground! Another big thing is failing to prepare your soil. Give your plants a chance by ensuring the soil they’re in is in good condition. A simple testing kit will let you know if you need to re-compost, add fertiliser, or simply switch to a different soil type.

You should also steer clear of what I call ‘the bullies’! Japanese knotweed and Russian vine are particularly unruly and will literally undermine not just your flowers, but nearby buildings too! And the same goes for our animal friends. Sure, we may like to see a hedgehog, bird life, even the odd fox, but the best gardens are those that manage to protect the food supply present! My final piece of advice is to try to spread the love around your garden. Few of us have an endless budget with which to run riot in our green spaces, and it’s better to do a little at a time across the board, than blow it all in one part of the garden, leaving the rest of it looking forlorn and bereft. Remember, no two gardens are the same, in much the same way that no two gardeners are the same, and you’re never going to get it right all of the time. The most important thing is to be organised and put the effort in – if you do that, the rewards will very often follow close behind.

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Pets

Feeling

Hot Hot Hot! Last month, we experienced soaring temperatures that reached the mid to high thirties, making the UK feel more like the Maldives or the Bahamas! August may follow suit and if it does we need to take great care of our furry friends. Holidays and Days Out - Up to 30 million Brits are expected to holiday in the UK in 2022. So as the Great British staycation is here to stay it’s likely many of us will be taking our four-legged friends along with us. Unfortunately, dogs aren’t welcome everywhere, so we would strongly advise that you plan your outings carefully. A little forward thinking could save your dogs from heatstroke this summer. It is a staggering statistic and possibly not a widely known one, but when it is 22 degrees Celsius outside, the car could reach 47 degrees within one hour. A lot of people assume it’s ok to leave their dog in the car if they have parked in the shade or if they leave the windows are open. However, a car can become as hot as an oven, even when the weather doesn’t feel that warm. It’s very dangerous and will cause your dog suffering and harm. Never leave your dog alone in a car on a warm day. If you see a dog in distress in a hot car, dial 999. Travelling With Pets - Whether you are travelling with your dog for a day out or to go away on holiday, there are a few key things to consider. Firstly, think about what time of day you are planning on being in the car to travel there and back. With temperatures lower before 8am and after 6pm could your travel arrangements take advantage of these cooler temperatures in order to keep your dog safe and healthy? Secondly, think about where on your route you can stop off and have a comfort break. Not just for the driver but for your dog to get some

fresh air, cooling water and to stretch their legs. Last, but not least, make sure you take plenty of water for your dog to drink while they are travelling and their water bowl. Many camping shops now stock portable water bowls made of silicone that can collapse and fold flat. Pets At Home - Our advice would be to never leave animals in conservatories, outbuildings or caravans on a warm day, even if it’s just for a short while. A common cause of dogs suffering from heatstroke or heat exhaustion is being taken out for a walk when it is too hot. A simple test before heading out on a dog walk is feeling the pavement outside. If it is too hot for a bare hand being held for 5 seconds, it is too hot for a dog. Top Tips for Keeping Pets Cool 1. Try using a pet-safe sun cream on exposed parts of your pet’s skin. 2. Make sure they have plenty of shade. 3. Give them constant access to fresh water. 4. Put ice cubes in their water bowl. 5. Give them damp towels to lie on. If you need to contact our Branch (North Bedfordshire) for any reason we can be reached by the details below, or for an animal welfare issue or emergency, please contact 0300 1234 999. Lines are open 7 days a week 24/7.

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Gardening

There’s more to gardens than plants There’s more to gardens than plants Naturally, plants are the linchpin of a garden. They are the lifeblood of a space, lending movement, atmosphere, colour and soul. It is the plants that provide calm energy and an essence of spirit. They make a garden pulse with life, including the society of tiny creatures that coexist with the vegetation and flora. But there is more to a garden than these essential, addictive growing forces of nature. It hinges around design and layout. This applies as much to a balcony or courtyard as it does to a garden, and it’s all about interest. If you can see everything at a glance, then your space could be improved. The eye likes to be led from one thing to another and a sense of intrigue is always a positive thing. Every garden can provide a desire to explore. A change in levels always helps, so a flat space might benefit from a step up to a patio or a step down to a seating area. It provides somewhere to ‘go’ and a reason to move throughout the space. If the garden has potential for a circulation route, provide one. A different entry and exit point will enable you to

travel around the garden rather than stepping in and out via the same route. Then there is the illusion of blurring the boundaries. Nobody needs to feel confined by fences or walls. Those fences can be partially, if not wholly, hidden. Use climbing plants that are suitable for the aspect and the height that you need. There are clematis for north-facing sites as well as sunnier situations. Climbing roses can be secured to steel planting wires or trellises, or choose something that is self-clinging such as Hydrangea petiolaris or a beautiful ivy with variegated leaves. Did you know that our native ivy, Hedera helix, is hugely beneficial to wildlife, supporting at least 50 different species? The nectar, pollen and berries provide an essential food source for insects and birds. The plant also offers shelter for many invertebrates, birds, bats and small mammals. The value of adornments Sculpture, mirrors, ornamental pieces and trinkets can look wonderful… or not. Placement is key. Smaller items need to be partially hidden so that they seem to be part of the garden landscape, rather than appearing to have dropped out of the sky. Any

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number of statues can be placed amongst planting so that you barely know it is there. You might glimpse a beady eye when you’re admiring the geums or catch a flash of light from a mirror concealed within ivy. These all add to the intrigue of a garden that contains more than initially meets the eye. A huge statement piece is different because it needs to take centre stage. Planting always helps to bed the item into the landscape and to give it a sense of purpose and belonging, which should be in tune with the genius loci – the spirit of the place. Introduce some water Water adds a further dimension and even a tiny bowl can enhance the quality of any garden. The National Garden Scheme (NGS) reports that over half of the 3,500 gardens opening to the public have some sort of water feature. They include bog gardens, natural or artificial streams, fountains, lakes, ponds and bowls. Ponds tend to change the ambience of a garden. They are like a magnet – watch anyone exploring a place and they will be drawn to a pond. Water has the ability to soothe the soul, help to improve mood and reduce blood pressure. It reflects the light and, naturally, attracts wildlife of many different types. The life within water, even if it is a simple, shallow bowl, is fascinating when you take the time to look.

Seating and shade The essentials of a good garden should include somewhere to feel safe and relaxed. You’ll need some sort of seat, even on a balcony, and some shade that can also provide privacy. Give yourself a protective screen and something to lean against. In an overlooked space where prying eyes seem to be able to watch you, consider a canopy, sunshade, pergola or tall shrub. A canopy or shade sail can be supported by posts or sturdy nearby trees, then taken down in the winter. Think of a garden boundary as the room, the hard landscaping as furniture and plants as the beautiful, soft interior furnishings that give the wow factor. Enjoy yours this summer!

Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

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Happy Campers

Holidays

One side effect of the pandemic was that it sparked (or in some cases rekindled) a fondness for being outdoors, and camping increased in popularity. Now, with the price of fuel and food soaring, most of us have less disposable income for the family holiday so camping is enjoying an extended renaissance. If you are trying family camping for the first time this year here are some top tips. Start small - Don’t plan a two-week family camping holiday on the Isle of White if the closest you’ve ever come to camping before this year is enjoying breakfast on a hotel patio in Majorca. Test the water - If it’s your family’s first foray into camping trip it’s probably best to try a couple of local excursions before embarking on a full-scale vacation, particularly if you have young children (or teens). That way if it’s a disaster it’s not too difficult to return home. Take company - Consider going with another family. Children in a group tend to occupy each other which leaves more time for the adults to relax. Plan for down time - Pack a couple of board games and books in case the novelty of camping wears off after a while, or the kids are tired or (heaven forbid) it rains! Be prepared - Pack a first aid kit which includes pain and cough relief, bug spray and plasters. And don’t forget lots of kid-friendly food and snacks. Don’t over-schedule - A camping trip is a chance to get back to basics in more ways than one. Building a campfire, bug hunting, pond dipping, or sitting on the bank of a river eating ice cream while dangling your feet in the water can all fill an afternoon and make wonderful memories. By Louise Addison The chances are that if you camp once you’ll go back for more.

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Garden View By Rachael Leverton

9th-14th August

is National Allotments Week During World War II and immediately afterwards, almost everyone with a garden grew fruit and vegetables. Food was rationed so people supplemented their diet with produce they’d grown in their own back garden, or down on their allotment. During the 1960’s allotments began to go out of fashion and continued to decline in popularity. As a society we were more affluent; more likely to buy what produce we needed from the local supermarket, and vegetable gardening just wasn’t considered sexy! But with food prices soaring and less produce available on the supermarket shelves, added to an increased interest in plant-based diets and locally sourced food, allotments are enjoying a popularity surge. And the statistics in the news are scary. The number of food banks is growing exponentially as families struggle to put even the most basic provisions on the table. There are concerns about additives and pesticides on shop-bought fruit and veg, yet the cost of organic food puts it out of the reach of the most consumers. Is it any wonder that so many of us are taking matters into our own hands, deciding to emulate our grandparents and grow our own food? But growing food requires space, and modern housing often means tiny gardens. This is where allotments come into their own.

Allotments don’t just benefit the humans who tend them. Each plot is a complex web of plants, microorganisms, fungi, insects, and animals supporting pollination and offering a refuge for wildlife. To celebrate all the lovely bugs and beasties on Britain’s allotments, this year’s National Allotments Week is encouraging gardeners to take part in a mini-beast monitoring survey. Bugs are really important to the healthy functioning of an allotments. They pollinate fruit and veg, control pests, and improve the soil. They are nature’s vital helpers. To take part in the survey visit the website listed below. To acquire an allotment, simply approach your council. Price and availability varies around the country and in some areas there are waiting lists. But councils across the country are taking allotments and community gardens much more seriously now, and many are actively seeking to provide new sites. If an available plot is too large for your personal needs you may be able to rent half or find a like-minded friend to share it with. Enquire today and you and your family could soon, quite literally, be reaping the benefits! Useful Website http://www.nsalg.org.uk/ Survey https://www.nsalg.org.uk/news-events-campaigns/national-allotments-week/

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Special Report

Life on the Dark Side

International Bat Night - Saturday 27th August Bats have long had a bad press. Their nocturnal habits have no doubt contributed to the many myths surrounding them; that they are evil, unearthly creatures of the dark, and Bram Stoker’s Gothic horror Dracula certainly did them no favours. Bats are synonymous with ‘creepy.’ International Bat Night aims to change these misconceptions. It takes place on the last weekend in August. Bat-related events are organised around the country. These include bat walks and talks organised by bat conservation groups, wildlife trusts and park rangers. There is probably one near you. Bats are fascinating creatures. It surprised me to learn that they make up just over 25% of the UK’s mammal population and they are the only ones that can fly. Britain is home to eighteen native bat species plus the occasional migrant visitor. The most common British bat is the Pipistrelle. These weigh in at just 5 grams (less than a £1 coin!). The rarest native species pre pandemic in 2019 was the Greater Mouse-eared Bat, which was down to one known male. The species was classified as critically endangered and may be actually extinct at the time of writing because he has not been seen recently. All British bat populations are under threat from predation, crime, and loss of habitat so they and their roosts are now protected by law. Many people cite the characteristic bat wings as the reason they don’t like the creatures, but bat wings are actually beautiful pieces of biomechanical engineering. They are constructed in a similar way to human hands, but with a membrane of skin stretched between the elongated, delicate fingers. Unlike bird bones, bat bones are not hollow.

Instead, they are extremely slender and flexible. This combination of extreme thinness and flexibility means that bats can manoeuvre more easily than birds at speed. Their fragility means they are more vulnerable to damage but to compensate they tend to heal very quickly. Across the world there are bats that eat fruit and nectar, and real vampire bats that do actually drink blood, but all UK bat species eat insects and amazingly they have the capacity to fly and feed in the dark using echolocation. The bats produce a stream of high-pitched calls and listen to the returning echo. To the bat this provides a ‘sound image’ of their surroundings, though contrary to common belief bats are not blind, they just hear better than they can see. And forget about those horror movies which depict bats becoming entangled in some hapless character’s hair, bats’ impressive navigational skills mean that this scenario is highly unlikely. Have you ever heard the saying ‘bats in the belfry’? It’s a peculiar saying because bats rarely seek out church towers. They generally prefer somewhere quiet, and warm, usually houses, both old and new. Contrary to widely held belief they are neither noisy nor smelly and cause few problems as they come and go about their business. If bats do set up home in your roof, their access must not be impeded. Encouraging these fascinating little creatures to your garden is easy. You can buy or make a specialist bat box to fix to outside of your home to encourage them to take up residence. Help, advice, and general information on Britain’s bats is available at www.bats. org.uk. By Kate McCarthy

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Motoring

First Drive: Does the Megane E-Tech Electric show the future of Renault?

Jack Evans test drives the new Megane E-Tech

What is it? The Megane E-Tech Electric is the first of a new generation of Renault EVs. So, what can it deliver? What’s new? Crucial to the new Megane E-Tech Electric is the CMF-EV platform underpinning it, which is dedicated to electric cars and results in better packaging and a more efficient layout. Fitment of the batteries underneath the car’s floor should give better handling and improved cornering. What’s under the bonnet? There are two powertrains, offering either 129 or 215bhp, plus options of a 40kWh or 60kWh battery bringing respective ranges of 186 or 292 miles. 0-60mph takes 10.3 seconds or 7.2 seconds respectively. Renault gives an eight-year battery warranty and it’ll replace it should the battery drop below 70 per cent of its nominal capacity. It can accept a charge of up to 130kW, meaning 186 miles of range added in 30 minutes to the smaller battery option via a rapid charger. A full charge via a 7.4kW home wall box will take just over six hours for the smaller battery version or just over nine for the larger. What’s it like to drive? Our most powerful version of the Megane E-Tech has good power and brisk acceleration. Renault has quickened the steering and though this is helpful around town, it can feel a little light at greater speeds. Through fast, flowing bends it felt composed and settled, and it’s also fantastically quiet and refined. How does it look? It’s great-looking, with interesting features and

futuristic touches. The design makes it seem a little bigger than it actually is. At the back is the now ever-present light bar and a quite high boot line, giving the car a raised-up appearance. What’s it like inside? The regular Megane focused on practicality inside a relatively compact package, but headroom and legroom are quite tight for rear passengers, while the letter-box-sized rear screen means restricted rearward visibility. The front passenger and driver have a good view ahead and plenty of space. The 440 litre boot has a very high load lip that drops into a deep area. There’s under-boot-floor storage for the cables, though you’ll need to empty the boot to access them. What’s the spec like? The Megane E-Tech adopts a new, good-looking, twin-screen wrap-around – the main infotainment screen is detailed but easy to operate and the driver display is much the same. The infotainment setup adopts Google’s technology, and features such as Maps or Spotify are well-integrated. We wish Renault had cleaned up the stalks at the side of the wheel; three on the right-hand side is too many. Verdict The Megane E-Tech Electric is a progressive step forward for Renault. It looks great, will have enough performance for most and has a good rate of charge. Practicality needs improvement but it’s likely that Renault will correct that and deliver a car with more space. But, as the first push into a new age of electric Renaults, the Megane is a very exciting prospect.

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Codeword 1

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Sudoku

Hard Sudoku

Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repetition. Use your logic to solve the puzzles. 48

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What's On

WHAT'S ON IN AUGUST 1 AUGUST Lego Club 4-5pm Letchworth Library £3 per child First Monday of the month. For children ages 5-12 years. Hour of creative fun with Lego. Booking essential at the library. 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25 & 29 AUGUST Retired Persons Table Tennis Club Mondays 11am-1.30pm. Thursdays 1.30-4pm Memorial Hall, Stotfold The club plays both doubles and singles. Monthly subscription payable. Vacancies for new members (but not beginners). Please email Terry for further details. Email: terrygriffiths50@gmail.com 1, 8, 15 & 22 AUGUST Baby Rhyme Time 10.30-11am Letchworth Library Free - donations welcome Fun half hour sessions of songs and rhymes are perfect for helping your child to learn language skills and are an opportunity for you to meet other families too. Booking essential. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 AUGUST Monday Painting Group 9.00am-12pm Letchworth Corner Sports Club, Whitethorn Lane Meets every Monday. Each term we choose a selection of subjects to paint. If you are interested, you are welcome to try it for £5 per session. Tel: Valerie Williams 01462 624439 Email: mondaypainting@lalg.org.uk 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 AUGUST Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-10.30pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Medium-sized social club for single people aged 40 upwards. Meets every Monday night. Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 Web: www.branch-out.org.uk

2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26 & 30 AUGUST Bridge Club 1pm Howgills, South View, Letchworth £3 Tuesdays and Fridays. Play from 1pm but do come earlier. Beginners and improvers welcome – we play very friendly Rubber Bridge. Tel: Gill Cheaney 01462 686806 Email: bridgeclub@lalg.org.uk 3 AUGUST Aircraft Enthusiasts’ Group 1pm Shuttleworth Guests £5 ‘Keys Don’t Float’ by Bryan Pill of the Mission Aviation Fellowship. Meets on the first Wednesday of every month. Entry to Shuttleworth £19.50/£17.50 online in advance (valid for 30 days). Email: 99aegr@gmail.com Web: www.a-e-g.org.uk 3, 9, 19 & 26 AUGUST Concerts at Benslow 8pm Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin Tickets £20, under 27s free entry 3 August - Jazz Night with Paul Eshelby and Friends. 9 August - Sarah Leonard (Soprano) and Stephen Gutman (Piano). 19 August - Shirley Smart (Cello). 26 August Wihan Quartet. Pre-concert dining available for some concerts. Web: https://benslowmusic.org

3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 AUGUST Open Wednesday at the Walled Garden 10.30am-4.00pm Luton Hoo Estate, Luton Entry £7.50 including guided tour, school age children £1, under 5s and carers free Last entry 2.30pm. No access from the hotel – please use LU1 4LF. Tel: 01582 721443 Web: www.lutonhooestate.co.uk Tickets: https://trybooking.co.uk/ BMNU 4, 11, 18 & 25 AUGUST Hitchin Thursday Art Club 9.30am-12pm St. John’s Community Centre, St. John’s Road, Hitchin We meet every Thursday for painting and drawing, etc. We are a friendly group who enjoy art and chatting. Tel: Mike 07977 347707 4, 11, 18 & 25 AUGUST Baby Rhyme Time 10.15-10.45am & 11.15-11.45am Hitchin Library Free - donations welcome Fun half hour sessions of songs and rhymes are perfect for helping your child to learn language skills and an opportunity for you to meet other families. Booking essential. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 AUGUST Baby Rhyme Time 10.30am-11am Baldock Library Free - donations welcome Fun session of songs and rhymes to help your child learn language skills.

4, 11, 18 & 25 AUGUST Sapphire Social Singles Club 8pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin Meet every Thursday. A friendly social group for single people to meet and make new friends generally 50+ age group. Tel/text: Ian 07900 890583 for info Web: sapphiresocialsinglesclub. co.uk

3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 AUGUST Storytime 10.30-11am Stevenage Library Free - donations welcome Interactive story sessions, perfect for pre-school children. No need to book. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

5, 12, 19 & 26 AUGUST Storytime 10.30-11am Letchworth Library Free - donations welcome Interactive story sessions, perfect for pre-school children. No need to book. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

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What's On

WHAT'S ON IN AUGUST 5, 12, 19 & 26 AUGUST Bridge Club 1.30-4.30pm Springfield House, Old Stevenage Community Centre Play social cut-in Chicago Bridge. Play is informal and friendly. Tel: Richard Bean 01438 221517 6 AUGUST The Signals Museum Open Day 10am-4pm RAF Henlow, SG16 6DN The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open to the public. Entry is free but official photo ID required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom. See website for full information. Call on the day if information is needed. Tel: 07778 837263 Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 7 AUGUST Fun Charity Quiz Night 8pm Five Bells, Henlow Village £2.50 per person Teams of up to 6 people. Prize for the winning team and also for last place, together with spot prizes and a raffle. In aid of Garden House Hospice Care. Tel: John 07511 631045 Email: quizzesforcharity@outlook. com 9 AUGUST Lego Club 3.30-4.30pm Baldock Library £3 per child Second Tuesday of the month. For children ages 5-12 years. Hour of creative fun with Lego. Booking essential at the library. 9 AUGUST Icknield Quilters 7.45pm Baldock Community Centre, Simpson Drive, Baldock Meets second Monday of the month. Visitors welcome.

10 AUGUST Hitchin Flower Club 7.30pm. Church House, next to St Mary’s Church Churchyard, Hitchin Visitors £8. ‘No Foam! Whatever Next!’ a floral demonstration by Catherine Holness. 13 & 26 AUGUST Sabbath Service 11am & 7pm Stevenage Liberal Synagogue welcomes members and visitors to their sabbath services on the second Saturday and fourth Friday evening of the month. Tel: 01438 300222 Email stevenageliberalsynagogue@ gmail.com Web: www. stevenageliberalsynagogue.org.uk 18 AUGUST Hitchin Friendship Club 2.15-4.15pm St Michaels Mount Community Centre Meets third Thursday of the month. Interesting talks, pub lunches, day trips, coffee mornings, holidays and much more. Refreshments, book exchange, raffle and quiz. Tel: 07974 374106 27 AUGUST Castle Comedy Doors open 7.30pm, show 8pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Rd, Biggleswade A great night out in a friendly environment with some of the UK’s finest comedians on the bill. Web: www.castlecomedy.co.uk 28 AUGUST Afternoon Tea 4pm Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin £19.95pp/£24.95pp with a glass of Prosecco. Enjoy afternoon tea at Benslow Music complemented with live music. Booking required. Tel: 01462 459446 Web: https://benslowmusic.org

1 SEPTEMBER Sandy Astronomical Society 7pm Zoom general meeting followed by ‘Listening to Einstein’s Universe: the Exciting Dawn of Gravitational-Wave Astronomy’ by Prof Martin Hendry. Email: info@sandyastro.co.uk Web: sandyastro.co.uk 4 SEPTEMBER Red Kite Concerts 2022 5-6pm St. John’s Church, Cockayne Hatley Tickets £15, under 18s free. The Flautadors Recorder Consort, performing on beautiful Renaissance instruments. Tickets available online or on the door. Web: www.redkiteconcerts.com UNTIL 2 OCTOBER Body & Soul Exhibition The Higgins, Bedford Free entry. Body & Soul is a new exhibition exploring how women have been represented in art over the past two centuries. Web: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk EVERY WEEKDAY Clifton Walking Group Meets on weekdays at 8.30am and in the afternoon for an hour. A friendly bunch of people of various ages and abilities. Monthly weekend walk of 6-8 miles. Group meets for coffee once a month and holds other social events. Tel: Suzanne I’ons 07933 709006 Email: ionssuzanne@gmail.com Letchworth Arts & Leisure Group Annual membership £10 per household. Many groups and activities including wine appreciation, film, gardening, theatre, art design, books, discussions, games, sports, outings, walking and much, much more. New groups are starting all the time. Online talks every month. Non-members can try activities before joining. Web: lalg.org.uk

The deadline for What’s On entries is Wednesday 10th August. What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.net To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

Special Report

Stand Up for Fun

Try stand up paddleboarding this summer I fell in love with Stand Up Paddleboarding (or SUP) last summer when the local marina offered SUP lessons. Before the end of the first lesson, I was hooked. SUP involves standing on a board while using a paddle to manoeuvre your way through the water. It’s a super-fun way to explore local waterways and get some fresh air and exercise. SUP is not difficult. We learned the basics in a day. There are more challenging forms of SUP, like SUP surfing and long-distance SUP touring, but recreational paddleboarding is pretty easy. Paddle boards come in a range of different shapes, lengths, widths, and sizes. The most common paddle board size is about 3.3m long and between 75cm-90cm wide. They are much bigger than your average surfboard! Beginners are best to look for an All-Around board...which is built for all water types, balancing speed, stability, and tracking. Inflatable paddle boards (or iSUPs) can be stored in a small space and easily transported then inflated when you’re ready to use them. Inflateable SUPs also float higher in the water, which is ideal for activities like SUP yoga (a real thing), and they are very durable Hard SUPs are made of an EPS foam core wrapped in materials like epoxy, fibreglass, wood, carbon fibre, or plastic. They tend to be slightly faster than inflatable SUPs, so perform better for SUP surfing. But they are harder to store and transport because they’re so big.

By Tom Hancock 52

Extra equipment SUP Paddle - about 20-25cm taller than you are. Paddle Leash - so your paddle can’t float away if you drop it or fall in. SUP Leash - so your board can’t float away if you fall in! PFD (Personal Flotation Device) - Safety first Flashlight and Safety Whistle - If you plan to paddle in the dark. Shoes - neoprene shoes will keep your feet warm in cooler weather and won’t damage the board. I prefer bare feet. Dry Bag - take a towel and a phone at the minimum. Walk into the water to knee-deep, set the board on to the water’s surface. Place your paddle across your board, climb on and kneel on the board. Practice paddling on your knees until you feel comfortable. Move one foot at a time and place your feet in the place where your knees have been resting. Slowly rise from a squat, with your heels flat, and slide your hands onto your paddle. Engage your core for stability. As soon as you stand up, make your first stroke with your paddle. This will help you build momentum and in turn, remain steadier. Stand with your feet parallel, hip-width apart, toes facing forward, and knees slightly bent. Wider boards are easier for a beginner to balance on. It’s possible to teach yourself the basics but it’s more fun to take a class with other beginners. There will almost certainly be one near you this summer. So, join the craze and get paddling. Don’t forget the sunscreen.

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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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Technology

The best TV tech for your home What you need to know for home entertainment heaven The humble TV has been given some serious upgrades in the last few years. Pictures have become sharper, TVs have become thinner and it feels like we’ve been buried under an avalanche of acronyms and mysterious terms: HDR, 4K, 8K, VRR, OLED and more. Don’t worry, though. If you’re thinking of a new TV it’s actually quite straightforward when you know what to look for. Today’s TVs come in two key flavours: LED TVs and OLED TVs. LED TVs are usually much cheaper to buy, but OLEDs have better picture quality. That’s because LEDs are lit from behind or from the sides, so it can be difficult to make black areas completely black. With OLED TVs, there’s no backlight or side light. Each pixel – the dots that make up the picture – is its own light source and can be turned off completely, delivering much darker areas and much better contrast. That’s not to say LED TVs are bad. They’re very good, but OLEDs are better. There are also several kinds of LED TVs. Mini-LED displays and QLED or Quantum Dot LED displays deliver better picture quality than standard LED TVs and come very close to OLED quality. Price-wise they sit between LED and OLED models. So that’s the screens taken care of: LED is cheapest and very good; Mini-LED and QLED are more expensive and a bit better; OLED are the most expensive and deliver the best contrast and colour. The other terms you need to know tell you how many pixels are in the TV. With a full 1080p HD TV the display has 1,080 pixels across. With a 4K/Ultra HD TV there are 3,840 pixels; with an 8K TV there are 7,680. The difference depends on the size of your TV, so a 26-inch HD TV will be perfectly sharp, but a 45-inch one won’t be as clear as a 4K one. 4K is the sweet spot for buying TVs that’ll last you for years. 8K ones are incredibly expensive and only come into their own when they’re the size of a wall. There’s one more acronym to look for: HDR. It means High Dynamic Range and it’s a TV technology that delivers realistic-looking images, so shadows are suitably dark and light bits are suitably bright.

Samsung AU9000 43” This 4K TV from Samsung is exceptional value for money: it’s widely available for less than £350. It’s not the biggest but 43-inch is big enough for most living rooms, and the smart TV features are great. £349, very.co.uk Samsung 65QN95A This 65-inch mini-LED isn’t cheap, but it’s much more affordable than a similarly sized OLED and it comes incredibly close in terms of picture quality. The price here is for the 65inch; other sizes are available. £1,499, johnlewis.com Philips Ambilight 55OLED936 This OLED TV is so clever it can make your walls part of the scene. That’s because it has Ambilight, which analyses the on-screen action and uses coloured lights to expand the scene to your walls. It’s also available on much cheaper models. £1,899, currys.co.uk LG C1 OLED TV 48”There are lots of OLED displays are generally more expensive than LEDs, but this OLED is being heavily discounted now and it’s down from around £1,400 to a much more affordable £952. It’s one of the very best TVs around. £952, very.co.uk Sky Glass Is this the future of Sky TV? Sky Glass is a Sky package that includes a TV for an additional £13 a month for the smallest 43-inch model. It’s a really good TV but be careful: a lot of Sky’s features are optional extras that can make the whole package quite expensive. From £156 a year, sky.com

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Crossword Puzzle Solution from our July Edition Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Jocelyn Rowe, Old Stevenage

July’s Codeword and Sudoku Solutions

Easy

Hard

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

The Villager Prize Crossword Prize

£25

Complete the crossword and fill in your details below, before

16th August 2022 Either cut out this page and send to Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd. 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Or photograph your entry and email to competitions@villagermag.com The winner will be drawn at random from the correct entries.

Across 1 Deprive of food (6) 4 Scribble (6) 9 Complicated (7) 10 Meal of raw vegetables (5) 11 Additional (5) 12 Exactly alike (7) 13 Meeting (11) 18 Down-payment (7) 20 End of day (5) 22 Type of oil (5) 23 Result (7) 24 Process (6) 25 Holds firmly (6) Down 1 Private (6) 2 Allow to enter (5) 3 Krakatoa (7) 5 Beginning (5) 6 Sea mammal (7) 7 Not youngest (6) 8 Test (11) 14 Young dogs (7) 15 Hideous beast (7) 16 Fools (6) 17 Speaks (6) 19 Kind of turnip (5) 21 Increases in size (5)

Name:

Address:



Tel:

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Books

Al fresco reading The Change Kirsten Miller Jo, Nessa and Harriet find themselves at the age where society has all but dismissed them. But along with the hot flushes comes an awakening of power. Nessa is called to by murdered girls. Jo is learning to channel her rage into superstrength. And Harriet has ways of punishing those who need to be punished. Together, the women need to stop a murderer – for good. A brilliant, character-driven novel that will keep you reading long after the sun has turned in for the night. Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone Benjamin Stevenson Ernest is at a family reunion. Tensions are high, as a few years previously Ernest’s conviction put his brother in jail. Now a serial killer is on the loose and Ernest believes it’s one of his family members. But who? Part classic whodunnit, part dark comedy, fully original, Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone is a whole lot of fun. Worn: A People’s History of Clothing Sofi Thanhauser Worn offers us a thoughtprovoking look at clothing fabrics – wool, linen, cotton, silk and synthetics. It explores the history of each fabric, how they’re produced today, and what that means for the people who grow and make them, and for the environment. While the focus is on the USA, Worn is nevertheless well worth a read. Much of it is quite disheartening, but there are glimmers of hope for a more sustainable clothing industry.

By Kate Duggan

The Women Could Fly Megan Giddings In Josephine’s world, witchcraft trials never went away and Josephine’s family background means she’s under extra scrutiny. At 28, she’s nearing the age where she needs to be married. The alternative is lifelong monitoring by the state. Neither appeal. Plus, Josephine’s mother vanished years ago, and left a rather unusual request in her will, which Josephine now needs to see through. Silverview John le Carré John le Carré’s final book was published posthumously, with the help of his son. It’s everything you’d expect from the master of spy fiction, and more. The story centres on Julian, who’s moved to the English countryside for a quieter life, Edward, who seems to know an awful lot about Julian’s background, and Proctor, a British spy trying to uncover the source of a leak. Fast-paced, tightly plotted and intriguing, this short book is a worthy contender for your list of holiday reads. Charred Genevieve Taylor Whether you’re a fully fledged vegetarian or just want to expand your barbecue repertoire, you’ll find plenty of inspiration in Charred. As the subtitle explains, Charred aims to be ‘the complete guide to vegetarian grilling and BBQ’, so you’ll find everything from veggie kebabs to Miso Grilled Aubergine or Smoked Mushrooms With Sherry & Garlic Cream. Simple to follow, with mouth-watering photos, this could quickly become your go-to summer cookbook.

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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.

Plumbing

Gary’s Plumbing Over 40 years experience No job too small! Please call Gary on

07530 728091 Wheelie Bin Cleaning

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

www.premierpd.co.uk

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Stevenage August 2022

Articles inside

Book Review: Al Fresco Reading

Villager Prize Crossword

Stand Up for Fun

Megane E-Tech Electric

Green Fingers

Happy Campers

National Allotments Week

There’s more to gardens than plants

Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot

Floral Country Style

What is value for money in clothing?

Mesmerising Morocco

Start Swimming this Summer

How do environmental issues affect our health?

Choosing a College

Raymond Blanc’s Lemon Cake

Brewing Today: Mount Saint Bernard Abbey

Time to Re-Mortgage?

The (New) Seven Wonders of the World