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VILLAGER The

February 2018

and Town

Life

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

In this issue Win tickets to see

Phil Beer ‘String Theory’ Classic Films for

Valentine’s Day Win £25 in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People in the Stevenage Area every month

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Inside this issue...

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The Joy of a Greenhouse

What to do if your sight or hearing worsens...................22 The Joy of a Greenhouse.................................................26 R.A.T.S. Re-homing Appeal............................................29 Animal Heroes................................................................31 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe.........................................32 Puzzle Page....................................................................36 What’s On.......................................................................38 Fun Quiz.........................................................................41 Prize Crossword..............................................................42 How do you like your pancakes?.....................................44

How do you like your pancakes?

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Forgotten Foods...............................................................4 Wordsearch......................................................................6 Classic Films for Valentine’s Day........................................8 Win Tickets to see Phil Beer............................................12 Fostering for Adoption Scheme......................................15 Wine: Convenience Matters............................................16 Winter SOS.....................................................................18 Hertfordshire Year of Physical Activity............................21

Get your business off to a flying start this year

Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £37.50 +VAT per month

Editorial Catherine Rose, Sarah Davey, Trevor Langley, Kate Duggan, Rachael Leverton, RSPCA, DeafBlind and Nick Coffer, Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel 01767 261122 • nigel@villagermag.com Photography Tzogia Kappatou 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.

Advert Booking and Artwork Deadline: Thursday 8th February for our MARCH edition

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History

Forgotten Foods In the era of supermarkets, ready meals and worldwide food imports, it is difficult to appreciate a time when people would not only have had to be thrifty with what they ate but creative too, cooking using the ingredients they had available. This month we look at some of the more unusual British dishes that were once common but have now disappeared from our everyday tables.

There is no doubt that although many of our staples have remained, the dishes we eat daily have changed drastically over the centuries.

Who would now enjoy a bowl of garum? Yet this fermented fish soup was a favourite of the Romans.

We tend to think of the medieval era as being typified by banquets overflowing with roast meat and washed down with endless tankards of mead.

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In fact, there were many cookery books kept at this time and dishes were often surprisingly complex, served with a great deal of visual wit.

Take for example the cockentryce. A capon, or castrated cockerel, was boiled, cut in half and sewn to the rump of a piglet. This was then stuffed and spit-roasted before being ‘gilded’ using egg yolk, saffron and (edible) gold leaf! The cockentryce was by no means unusual as rich and royal households loved nothing better than a chimera - combining the cooked meat of different animals and presenting the whole complete with head, tail and feet! Possibly the closest we get to this kind of combination today is our three-bird roast sometimes enjoyed at Christmas.

In those days, if you were offered custarde, you couldn’t assume it was the stuff we regularly pour over our apple pie. Custarde was a type of 15th century quiche made with eggs, veal and prunes. Medieval foodies loved nothing better than to combine fruit with their meat dishes.

For example, fish sausage made from a mixture of fish, currants, cloves, mace and salt, all squeezed into the traditional sausage skin of an animal intestine, was another favourite.

Puddings were equally creative, and some had wonderfully poetic names like ‘a dish of snow’ which was a concoction of whipped egg whites and apple purée. A Tudor recipe from The Proper Newe Booke of Cookerye describes how to make ‘Egges in Moneshyne’ (eggs in moonlight) by poaching them in a syrup of rose water and sugar to resemble moons.

Some of the dishes that were routinely served would probably not be considered very palatable today.

For example, in the 1700s, cows’ udder was a norm, either roasted or boiled with spices and served cold in slices coated with sugar or ‘white bread crum’. In his famous diary, it

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is mentioned as being much enjoyed by Samuel Pepys.

No native animal was spared in the days before intensive farming limited our regular choice to poultry, lamb, beef or pork. You would not go into a supermarket today and scour the meat counter for a cut of snake, but this was also a popular dish in the sixteenth century. Published in 1736, Richard Bradley’s The Country Housewife and Lady’s Director in the Management of a House and the Delights and Profits of a Farm (a title which is a mouthful in itself ) contains a recipe for boiled vipers which it states should have their heads cut off while still alive, the body cut into chunks and boiled along with their hearts.

In rural areas, both badger and hedgehog were eaten. Considered a delicacy, Bradley’s cookery book has instructions on how to prepare cooked badger by cutting off its ‘gammons’ (hind legs), stripping them and then soaking them in brine for a week to ten days, after which they should be boiled for four or five hours and finally roasted.

The hedgehog was a Romany favourite and would have been widely eaten in mid-Bedfordshire where there was once a thriving Romany gypsy population. The hedgehog would be caught, packed in clay and baked on the open fire. Once

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the clay had hardened it was broken away, which took the skin and spines with it, to uncover a meat said to look and taste like roast pork (hence the ‘hog’ perhaps).

Beestings (or beastings) pudding was another rural dish that was certainly eaten in this area and one that, post pasteurisation, most people will never have heard of. A milk pudding, it was made at home from the rich colostrum of a cow that had recently given birth.

The Victorians were adept at using every part of a slaughtered animal for food, from the brains to the hooves. Calves’ ears would be shaved, boiled and fried; offal made into various patés; and calves’ feet boiled to extract the natural gelatine, which was then used to make jelly and preserve foods in aspic. Bone marrow would not be wasted either and bones were stewed to make broth and gravy.

We could probably learn a lot from the Victorians in managing our food wastage today. And although there are undoubtedly still many people who have a passion for creative cooking, perhaps generations of future centuries will look back on our love of Super Noodles and tinned baked beans with both horror and amusement.

By Catherine Rose

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Time of Year

By Sarah Davey

Classic Films for Valentine’s You could go out for an expensive meal, or buy a bunch of overpriced red roses…or you could curl up with a glass of wine in front of a classic romantic film. There’s something for everyone, whether coupled-up or happily single.

Annie Hall – This was probably the father of all romantic comedies. Alvy (Allen) is a cynical pessimist while Annie (Diane Keaton) is a ditsy, clumsy talented singer and photographer. If you’ve never seen it, don’t expect a neat ending (this is Woody Allen) but it showcases love in all its messy absurdness, and is sharp, funny and never cheesy.

Ghost – This was 1990’s second highest grossing movie (Home Alone came out top). Patrick Swayze plays Sam, murdered in the opening scenes. His spirit tries to warn his grieving lover (Demi Moore) that her life too is in danger. To do this he enlists the help of a reluctant psychic played by Whoopie Goldberg. The result is by turns tender, funny, and bittersweet. You will never hear Unchained Melody again without shedding a tear.

Pretty Woman – This is rather cheesy but has survived the test of time (mostly). It’s a Cinderella story really as Vivian (played by Julie Roberts), a prostitute with a heart of gold, is hired by a businessman (Richard Gere) as an escort and turns his life upside down.

As Good as It Gets – No cheese here, just dry wit

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and snarky humour, delivered perfectly by Jack Nicholson playing Melvin Udall, a misanthropic author with OCD who falls for Carol (Helen Hunt), a waitress who can’t stand him. It’s a story of redemption.

Moonstruck – If you like your romances complex then this is the film for you. Italian-American widow Loretta (played by Cher) accepts a marriage proposal from her doltish boyfriend, Johnny, but then finds herself falling for his younger brother, Ronny (Nick Cage). She resists, but Ronny blames his brother for the accident in which he lost his hand and has no scruples about pursuing her in Johnny’s absence. As Loretta falls further in love she learns that she’s not the only one in her family with a secret romance. Cher is a surprisingly good actor and the chemistry between the leads is great.

The Wedding Singer – This engaging film is actually a parody of all things eighties. But the leads play their roles sincerely and that’s what makes this work. Robbie (Adam Sandler sporting a fabulous mullet) is a singer, while Julia (Drew Barrymore) is a waitress. They are both in relationships with the wrong people but fortune intervenes to help them discover each other. This is pure romantic cheese, but it’s top quality cheese so serve with only the best crackers.

Happy Valentine’s Day

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advertorial

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COMPETITION Win 2 tickets

to see Phil Beer ‘String Theory’ 2018 Tour The Junction in Cambridge on Thursday 15th February

PHIL BEER COMPETITION ENTRY Name:



2018 looks set to be a different, yet very special year for Phil as he announces his solo tour ‘String Theory’ in February and March. The tour will feature material old and new, and showcase his exceptional skill on all-things-stringed. With the return of ‘Folkboat’ this summer, there are limited chances to catch Phil in 2018, so grab your tickets while you can!

When a musician’s CV drops names like Mike Oldfield, the Rolling Stones and Steve Harley, you know you’re dealing with a man at the top of his game. Phil Beer is one-half of the multi-award-winning acoustic folk and roots powerhouse Show of Hands, and he’s also in demand in his own right as a captivating solo performer.

So, what does a man as talented as Phil Beer do when he’s not selling out the Royal Albert Hall with Show of Hands? He embarks on an eagerly awaited solo tour, visiting a string of carefully selected venues throughout the UK. He’ll be delivering his unique recipe of rich vocals and flawless musicianship across a range of stringed instruments (slide, Spanish and tenor guitar, mandocello, viola, mandolin and South American Cuatro).

Alongside some Show of Hands classics, Phil will deliver his signature interpretation of much-loved folk and rock songs alongside a wealth of brand-new material, and there’ll be the odd laugh thrown in for good measure.

Phil says, “2017 was such a busy year with the Albert Hall show, festivals and band tours. This year I’m looking forward to something a bit different. There’s something about a solo tour which makes me feel really connected with the audience. I’m also planning the release of a very special 8-disc boxset and am looking forward to sharing new material from that.”

Following the tour, Phil will be focusing on ‘Folkboat’: a project which brilliantly combines his two greatest passions – music and sailing. Then in September he’ll return to the stage as Show of Hands prepare for a busy autumn.

“A Phil Beer gig is one spent in the company of a true craftsman, a master musician and consummate performer” Spiral Earth.

Simply send your entry by 12th February 2018 to: Phil Beer Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Winner will be drawn ramdomly.

Address: Tel: 12

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104 Ampthill Road, Shefford, Beds SG17 5BB 14

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Local News

Local family supported Fostering for Adoption scheme and have never looked back

Sarah and Neil felt Fostering for Adoption was right for them despite the uncertainties they faced. “We were aware the baby might be returned to their birth family and we knew we would be sad if this happened. But right from the start we felt really positive about Fostering for Adoption because we feel it is the right thing for the babies and children involved, as they do not have to move often.

Paul was 36 hours old when we collected him from hospital. At this stage, we were his foster carers and attended regular contact visits with his birth parents. I would think to myself, ‘They’re his parents. I’m helping with the baby while they’re sorting themselves out’.

We are pleased that we had the chance to meet his birth parents and see how much they loved him. As he grows up we can give her a much clearer picture of them because we met them ourselves.

Paul is now six months old and we couldn’t be happier that he is a permanent member of our family.”

There was one moment, when Paul wasn’t sleeping and we were lying on the bed and I was pretending to sleep to try and get him off. He reached out and touched my face. And I thought, “Who are you kidding, you love this baby so much”.

In some cases children are placed with families who can foster them while the court decides whether they can be returned to their birth families or whether they should be adopted. If they cannot return home they will then stay with their foster to adopt family which means that they will benefit from continuity of care.

To find out more visit www.coramcambridgeshireadoption.org.uk or call us on 0300 123 1093.

We are looking forward to hearing from you.

A chance to play again “Since adopting Amy and Jason our home has become a much more exciting place. There’s been a farm in the kitchen, a fairy castle in the living room and pirate ships have captured the bathroom! I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

We find forever families for children who need permanent, loving homes. If you think you’ve got what it takes to adopt a child or siblings, we’d love to hear from you…

Visit www.coramcambridgeshireadoption.org.uk or call 0300 123 1093 today.

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Food and Drink

Wine:

Convenience Matters Convenience stores have to be - well, convenient. Spar has several thousand, spread over 40+ countries and was founded during 1932. Communities matter to Spar and, when planning these stores, considerations include location, opening times and stock, etc. Spar not only provides essential daily needs, such as food, including fresh fruit and vegetables, as I found out, but numerous items, required frequently, have a place in the stores, along with offers and other services, also. Whether an electrical socket extension lead, dog food or anti-bacterial cat litter, to plugs and devices for modern technology are required, Spar has stocks of many, many readily available supplies. The stores and Spar’s own-brand ranges have gained a good number of awards and constantly continue to do so.

I searched for easy-drinking, fresh, smooth and elegant wines, of very good quality and value.

Licensed Spar stores have something for all tastes and palates, having long-term, award-winning suppliers of wines. The single grape variety, ‘Letter Press’-labelled wines, I found to be excellent and very able to accompany numerous dishes of cuisine or to be enjoyed on their own, pleasing the wine lover that prefers a particular style and /or grape variety.

Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc are always very popular. These pair with fish dishes, seafoods and white meats, wonderfully. Pinot Grigio is often chosen and is really great and satisfying.

Tempranillo is a regular favourite and Pinot Noir, plus Merlot are other red wines, often selected. These are impressive accompaniments to red meats, etc.

Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Shiraz add fabulous, further choices, of reds. Medium and full-bodied, and selected on many occasions, these wines will not disappoint. Garnacha is a powerful red and has numerous connoisseurs and wine lovers choosing this, a lot. All have excellent fruit bouquets, plus splendid mouthfeels and palate sensations. If sparkling wines are a favourite, then Spar’s champagne and prosecco choices will most definitely satisfy, adding an extra ‘something’ to a dining occasion or event.

These are just some of the wines available within the Spar ranges. I found it most worthwhile checking out my local Spar shop. You could be surprised, too.

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

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17 08/12/2017 12:26

Health & Beauty

Winter S.O.S. Beauty goodies to see you through the cold spell.

If your skin is feeling dry and tight at the moment, a sheet mask could be just the ticket. Look for one with hyaluronic acid, which helps skin to hold on to moisture and fight the signs of ageing. The skin689 Bio-Cellulose Hyaluron Face Mask contains hyaluronic acid, along with coconut extract and an amino acid complex to nourish skin. As with all sheet masks, it’s a little fiddly to use, but feels lovely and refreshing when it’s on and the end results are definitely worth it. Softer, more hydrated skin, in just 20 minutes. And at £5.90, it’s an affordable weekend treat.

See www.skin689.com An American skincare brand has released the world’s first vegan, plant-based topical collagen formula.

Algenist’s serum is designed to replace lost collagen and contains Omega-rich microalgae oil. As with many things, there’s no long-term gain without short-term pain. In my case this meant that I had to contend with several large pimples breaking out in the first few days of using the serum. However, my skin soon got used to it, and did look plumper, smoother and much more refreshed after just a couple of weeks. All in all, I’m impressed. Genius Liquid Collagen is available from www.SpaceNK.com for £90.

Central heating and icy winds don’t just wreak havoc on your skin - they can also leave your

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hair feeling dry and lacklustre.

Faith in Nature’s Seaweed & Citrus Shampoo and Conditioner include natural extracts, such as wild harvested seaweed to ‘feed’ your hair with minerals and antioxidants. As with all Faith in Nature products, they’re free from parabens and harsh ingredients, so very gentle. Suitable for all hair types, they leave your locks feeling healthier, smoother and shinier. £5.35 each from www.faithinnature.co.uk Sore, cracked hands can be a real pain over the colder months.

Unfortunately, some hand creams can actually make the situation worse, particularly if they contain artificial perfumes. Dermalex is a specialist skincare range aimed at sufferers of conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. The Hand Irritation Cream can help with dry, cracked skin, itching and other signs of irritation. You’ll also want to look for a gentler hand wash or soap that doesn’t contain sodium lauryl sulphate, which can dry your skin and aggravate skin conditions. From £12.99, www.dermalex.co.uk It may be cold outside, but it won’t be long before it’s time to pack the winter woollies away for a few months. If you’ve been neglecting your nails under warm gloves, now’s the time to treat them to some TLC. Nails Inc Superfood NailKale Base Coat is enriched with kale, aloe vera, lemon, ginseng, pomegranate and grape extracts to nourish and strengthen your nails. Use it on its own for a glossy nude finish, or as a base coat for your favourite coloured polish. £15, www.nailsinc.com

By Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

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Local News

Hertfordshire Year of Physical Activity 2018 One in five adults in Hertfordshire currently does less than thirty minutes of activity a week, which means they are missing out on a wide range of physical, mental and social benefits.

In response to this, Hertfordshire Sports Partnership (HSP), Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) and the ten Hertfordshire Districts and Boroughs have teamed up to launch Hertfordshire’s first Year of Physical Activity in 2018.

The Year of Physical Activity, which aims to make Hertfordshire the most active county, was launched at the ‘Fit for the Future’ conference hosted by HSP at the Fielder Centre, University of Hertfordshire on Thursday 23 November.

Hertfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, Richard Roberts, said: “Regular activity can significantly improve our health, for example reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer and depression.

“It is also a great way to meet new people, improve your social life, put you in a good mood and help you sleep better.

“We know it can be a daunting prospect to take up physical activity when you’re not very active but our Year of Physical Activity will help throw a spotlight on some of the fantastic opportunities available across the county so we’d really urge everyone to take part.”

The Fit for Future conference brought together representatives from a myriad of voluntary and community sector organisations who wanted to show their support of the Year of Physical Activity.

Jane Parker, Hertfordshire Year of Physical Activity co-ordinator, said: “We would encourage everyone to get involved in this fantastic opportunity and would love to hear from anyone interested in running an activity during one of the twelve themed months.

“You could be a parish or town council, leisure provider, lunch club leader, sports club, group exercise leader, University of Third Age group, Rotary club, or group of mums who want to get involved.

“You may be someone who provides sport and physical activity

opportunities who can promote what you offer under the HertsYOPA18 umbrella to encourage new people to join your group.

“Or you could even be someone who runs a group that has no link to sport and physical activity but would like to encourage your group to go for a walk together or try new activities throughout the year.

“Whoever you are, we want to hear from you!”

For more information, or to get involved in the campaign, contact Jane Parker at hertsyopa18@herts.ac.uk

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Health

What to do if you notice your sight and hearing are getting worse

Thousands of people in the UK are living with combined sight and hearing loss. But how can you tell whether you or someone you know has sight and hearing loss and what you should do about it.

Christine Hardy, Advocacy, Rights and Awareness Manager at Deafblind UK said: “Early signs of sight and hearing loss are not always as obvious as you think. Sometimes people may leave post unopened or become more hesitant to go out and about.

You may also notice they adopt an unusual head position or even have burnt fingers from misuse of the oven or hot water.

“It is vitally important to have regular eye tests to check for changes in your sight. These will also detect any eye conditions such as macular degeneration or glaucoma before you notice symptoms yourself. If you are over 60, eye tests are free on the NHS and there are services that can do an NHS sight tests in your own home.

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“Someone whose hearing is deteriorating may have difficulty following conversations or become uncomfortable in noisy situations like restaurants and shopping centres.

They may struggle to hear women and children and think that other people are mumbling.

“If you notice a drop in hearing, visit your GP who may refer you to an audiologist. If you need a hearing test, this will happen in a sound-proofed room where you will be asked to respond to different sounds. From this test the audiologist will determine whether hearing aids will be appropriate.”

If you recognise any of these signs in people you know, there are lots of small things you can do to make a big difference to their lives; from adjusting room lighting to using 3D stickers around the house.

For more details visit www.deafblind.org.uk or contact Deafblind UK on 01733 358100 or info@deafblind.org.uk.

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Garden View

The Joy of a

Greenhouse

By Rachael Leverton I am an impatient gardener. By February I am always eager to get started and my greenhouse means that I can do just that.

A greenhouse means that I don’t fear the weather, I can potter in my garden all year round and I can grow a range of plants that would not survive without protection. Most gardens have room for at least a tiny greenhouse and its well worth trying to incorporate one into your space.

Before choosing a greenhouse, check whether your local planning authority places any restrictions in terms of size or position. Usually there are no problems.

Ideally a greenhouse should be placed in a bright spot because poor light and heavy shade will mean sickly spindly plants. Buy as big a greenhouse as you can accommodate because I guarantee that no matter how big it seems at first you will fill it.

You can make a greenhouse from poles and polythene but it won’t last more than a couple of years and won’t be pretty to look at. Fully glazed aluminium greenhouses are good value, and if you like wood then go for western red cedar, which ages well and lasts a long time. It’s important to have level foundations You don’t have to heat a greenhouse but I like

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to because it lets me get an early start in spring, and keeps my tender pot plants alive through the winter. When I had an unheated greenhouse my frost-tender plants rarely survived.

I prefer electric heating, which doesn’t smell and doesn’t produce the excessive amounts of water vapour associated with paraffin. Make sure you use a qualified electrician and that all the sockets are rated for outdoor use. Fit a thermostat and the heat will only come on when necessary, making it very economical.

At the other end of the year make sure you have ventilation, or your plants will cook. If you can afford it go for the automatic arms which open ventilators if the greenhouse reaches a certain temperature. Also consider blinds to help prevent sun-scorch.

I arrange my greenhouse with staging on one side and a soil bed on the other for my tomatoes to grow in, and I’ve attached some guttering and a downpipe to a water butt so I can collect rainwater. It’s my little haven in February; where I plant seeds and imagine what my garden will look like in a three months’ time.

Happy Gardening

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Local News

Rehoming Appeal This month’s rescue animal looking for their forever home is Annie

Annie has come into us as her owner is in hospital long term and can no longer care for her.

She is 5 years old and a very friendly girl who loves to be fussed and she is very playful. She is a very bright and lively cat and is longing for a new home where she can get lots of attention.

Annie will make a lovely family pet and companion.

If you would like to find out more about Annie, 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 small mammals, dogs and cats currently in our care for re-homing on our website: www.rats-animalrescue.co.uk or facebook : www.facebook.com/ratscharity

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Animal Heroes

Pets

New Year, New You?

Last year, across the country, 129,602 animals were rescued and collected by the RSPCA. The cost of doing this was primarily provided by people like you. Our work relies on an army of wonderful volunteers and supporters. So, if you’re looking for a new focus in 2018, why not get involved?

There are many ways you can help, but here are a few simple fundraising ideas to get you started: My Big Walkies – could you walk 10,000 steps a day for a whole month? Join us in October and you can even get your dog involved! You can walk at your own pace, in your own time, and we’ll help you with your fundraising.

Run – apply for one of our charity places to run high profile events like the Brighton, Yorkshire or London Marathons – or you can register to run for us at your own pace at a run of your choice!

Great Big Picnic – why not host an RSPCA Great Big Picnic and invite your friends and family round to enjoy the weather and have some fun?

Cake sale – the key to a great bake sale is to recruit your bakers early and ask them to bring variety to the table. You could even raise the stakes by selecting a winner at the end, Great British Bake Off style!

Give something up – we’ve all got that habit or thing that we “couldn’t live without”, so why not put it to the test? Instead of spending the money you normally would on chocolate, coffee or whatever your “thing” is – you could donate it instead – and get people to sponsor you. Or, give something away and donate to our charity shop in Bedford?

Raffle – simply charge a fee for tickets and the winners get a prize. You could use unwanted presents as raffle prizes or ask your friends and local businesses if they’re willing to give you prizes.

Auction – if you have a collection of interesting

items that you’re willing to let go of, an auction could be perfect. However, if you couldn’t possibly part with your most treasured possessions you could hold a promise auction, where you can auction off your time or skills.

Charity game – organise a charity game of your sport of choice such as football, Minecraft or even a Monopoly tournament. Invite friends and family to take part and ask them for a donation per entry.

Quiz night – all you need is a suitable venue and then ask your guests to pay to play. Look online for example questions, or if you’re feeling creative you could write your own quiz.

Sponsored event – there are countless things that you could do and get sponsored. You could go down the extreme route and ask for sponsorship for things like skydiving. Or you could go down the slightly safer route – like a sponsored silence. The possibilities are endless!

Fundraising does wonders for rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming thousands of animals every year. By raising money for us, you’ll join animal lovers from across the nation, determined to stop animal cruelty and neglect. Together, our voice will be stronger and more powerful than ever.

This is your chance to feel great, get fit, have fun and be creative. Why not be an animal Hero this year?

More information, and fundraising packs, can be found on rspca.org.uk Call 01234 266965 or email donate@ rspcabedsnorth.org.uk with any enquiries.

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

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31

Three Counties Radio

Beef Gulasz

with Cracked Barley Groats, Sour Cream and Dill We are lucky in the Three Counties to have a wonderful variety of food available and I love featuring different cuisines on the Weekend Kitchen. Back in 2010, I welcomed Ren Behan from St Albans on to the show. She had given up a career as a lawyer and was looking to build a new career as a food stylist and writer. I strongly encouraged her to write a book on Polish food and, 7 years later, she fulfilled her dream and her book was published. Ren is passionate about her Polish roots and is keen to show that Polish food is imaginative, vibrant and delicious. This gorgeous and simple recipe comes from her book, Wild Honey and Rye, and is a perfect winter warmer.

1. Heat the oil in a large cast-iron pan, add the onions and cook for 10 minutes on a low heat until golden and soft. Add the celery and carrots and continue to cook for 5 minutes.

2. In a large bowl, coat the beef in the flour, season well with salt and pepper. Add a drop more oil to the pan with the onions, turn up the heat and brown the meat all over. Add the mushrooms, tomatoes, tomato puree, stir and then pour in the beef stock, add the bay leaf and stir again.

3. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer for 1 ½- 2 hours over a low heat, stirring occasionally. Or, transfer to a slow cooker and cook for 4-5 hours.

4. Cook the barley or buckwheat according to the instructions on the packet. Serve the barley with the beef gulasz, drizzle over the sour cream and garnish with fresh dill.

Ingredients 2 tbsp vegetable oil 2 onions, peeled, chopped 1 stick celery, washed, chopped 2 carrots, peeled, chopped 2 tbsp plain flour 500g beef braising steak or feather steak, cubed Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 250g mixed or chestnut mushrooms 2 ripe tomatoes, peeled, de-seeded and chopped 2 tbsp tomato puree 500ml beef stock, made up 1 bay leaf To serve: 200g crushed barley groats/pearl barley or buckwheat cooked according to the packed instructions (Kasza Jęczmienna).

Fresh dill and Sour cream

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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SHIRON

Domestic Appliances Repairs of

Washing Machines Tumble Dryers Dishwashers Electric Ovens Electric Cookers Microwaves Vacuum Cleaners and all domestic appliances.

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Non-caustic, fume-free solution individually prepared for each customer.

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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Stevenage airport taxiS

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

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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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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

Handyman Plumbing Electrical Painting & Decorating Drainage Fully Insured All Work Guaranteed – No Job Too Small Gardening Call Now For A Free Quote Locksmith 24/7 Emergency Call Out

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03/11/2017 16:20 37

n O s ’ t Wha In February

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

What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.com

1 February Lecture on Charles Rennie Mackintosh 11am or 2pm Spirella Ballroom, Bridge Road, Letchworth Visitors £7 - pay on the door The Arts Society North Hertfordshire presents a lecture tracing Mackintosh’s career and looking at his major architectural commissions and interiors.

Lecturer is Anthea Streeter. Visitors welcome.

Free parking. Email: theartssociety.nh@ gmail.com 1, 8, 15 & 22 February Sapphire Social Club 8.30pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin A small and friendly group for single people aged 50 and above. We offer a variety of social events during the month and the opportunity to meet and make new friends.

Tel: Joyce 07952 678021 Web: www.sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk 1, 8 & 22 February Baldock Community Orchestra 7.15pm Knights Templar School (Room CS1), Baldock £7 per week or 10 week term £50 A friendly group of musicians...

Tel: Rachel Dawson 07818 480332 2, 9, 16 & 23 February Springfield House Friday Bridge Club 1.30pm Old Stevenage Community Centre To play cut-in Chicago Bridge. Play is informal and friendly. Tel: Richard Bean 01438 221517 5, 12, 19 & 26 February Staplers Country Dance Club 8-10pm St John’s Community Hall, Hitchin Staplers is your local social folk dance club.

It’s easy to start as all dances are walked through first and you don’t need to bring a partner.

Car parking available next to the hall.

Tel. 01462 895567 or 01462 624144 Web: www.staplers.org.uk

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5, 12, 19 & 26 February Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-11pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Branch Out meets every Monday night and is a medium-sized Social Club for single people.

The club organises regular events, such as dinners, discos, parties, Sunday walks, theatre and concert visits, trips and holidays. Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 www.branch-out.org.uk

7, 14, 21 & 28 February Baby Rhyme Time 10.30-11am Baldock Library Free event

6 February Tree Tops Talk: An Introduction to Herons 11.30am Rushmere Country Park, Herons’ View Visitor Centre, Linslade Road, Heath and Reach Tickets £4 (inc. £2 to spend in the café) Our 2018 season of Tree Tops Talks kicks off with a subject very close to our hearts - an introduction to herons. Our highly knowledgeable volunteer Judith will take a look at the heron family with a little heron history, their breeding, biology and eating habits and a closer look at the herons of Rushmere, as we await their imminent return here to nest. Web: www.greensandtrust.org

8 February Baldock & Clothall WI 7.30pm United Reformed Church, Whitehorse Street, Baldock Visitors £3 including refreshment and raffle ticket. www.facebook.com/baldockclothallwi

7, 14, 21 & 28 February Vivace Choir 7.30-9.30pm Edgeworth House, 121 High Street, Arlesey We are looking for keen singers to join our fun and friendly choir. www.vivacechoir.co.uk

9 February Unicorn Ceilidh 8-11pm St Mary’s Church Hall, Church Street, Baldock Adults £10, Seniors £9, Students/unwaged £7, Children £6, Family (2a + 3c) £28 Dance the night away with top ceilidh band The Oxford Nags and caller Sheena Masson; interval entertainment from Rockhopper 6, 13, 20 & 27 February Morris.

Stevenage Bridge Club 7.30pm All the dances are walked through Priory Nursery, Stanmore Road, Stevenage beforehand, and the emphasis is very much To play Duplicate Bridge. A host system is run on enjoying yourself, rather than getting to find partners, if required. Tel: Phil Cooper everything step perfect.

07957 813434 Real ale, cider, wine and soft drinks bar.

Tickets available online or on the door.

7 February Web: www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk North Herts Association of the National Trust 12 February 7.30pm Icknield Quilters 7.30pm for 7.45pm start Christchurch, Bedford Road, Hitchin Baldock Community Centre Non-members £2 on the door £3. Sewing evening. Visitors welcome.

Talk on ‘The Work of The Historic Houses Web: www.icknieldquilters.co.uk Association’ which supports around 1600 privately owned historic houses, stately 14 February homes and castles, such as Blenheim Henlow Branch R N A Palace, Knebworth House and Leeds Castle.

7.30pm Community Centre, Non-members welcome. Membership of the The Gardens, Henlow National Trust not necessary.

The Henlow Branch of The Royal Naval Tel: Colin Cropley 01462 713391 Association meets on the second Wednesday Email: colinecropley@gmail.com of each month. Tel: Jack 01462 850618

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n O s ’ t Wha In February 14 February Letchworth Music Club 7.45pm Howgills Friends Meeting House, 42 South View, Letchworth Tickets: £12, Under 18s & Students £6 The Club’s New Year series of Chamber Music concerts continues in the warm, welcoming atmosphere of its unique building, a replica of the oldest such Meeting House in Cumbria. Toby Turton (cello) and Rebecca Holt (piano) offer a wonderfully varied programme including works by Schubert (Arpeggione Sonata), Schumann (Adagio and Allegro and Stűcke om Volkston), Mendelssohn (Song without Words op.109), Glűck (Melodie) and Sibelius (Romance op.78 no.2). Tickets available on the door.

Web: www.letchworthmusicclub.co.uk

18 February Biggleswade Antiques Fair 9.30am-4pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Entrance £1.50. This antiques fair offers a diverse range of antiques and collectables so whether you are a professional dealer, an avid collector or just looking for something special, this monthly fair is the place to visit.

Café serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Tel: 01480 382432 or 07906 647346 Web: www.madisonevents.co.uk 20 February Stevenage RSPB 7.30pm Friends’ Meeting House, Cutty’s Lane, Stevenage Members £3, Non-members £4, Under 16s 50p Martin Davies will present a talk entitled ‘Wild Canadian Rockies’.

23rd Feb from 6pm An evening of Rat Pack classics with Ryan Beange Tree Tops Café, Rushmere Country Park, Linslade Road, Heath and Reach Food available 6pm, Performance 7.30pm Tickets £15 per head (18+ only) inc. a drink (wine or orange juice) and parking Making his first appearance at the Tree Tops Café, we welcome Ryan Beange who will perform songs from the Rat Pack era with classic big band hits from Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr and more.

Web: www.greensandtrust.org/Event/ryanbeange

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

Flintham JoePlasterers

Female Plasterer specialising in: Plastering, Plasterboarding, Making Good and Painting

A FRIENDLY FAMILY FIRM. FREE QUOTATIONS

Tel. 07951 362335 / 07836 768670 Email: joeflinthamplasterers@googlemail.com

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

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January’s Puzzle Solutions and Winners Last Month’s Crossword Winner Mrs P Anderson from Biggleswade Made In Dagenham Helen Burr from Meppershall

Golf Competition Mr Christopher Glover from Flitwick Easy

Hard

Fun Quiz - Nicknames

1. On which TV show might you come across people nicknamed the Beast, the Governess, the Dark Destroyer, the Sinnerman and the Vixen?

2. Taken from the small red flower he would draw on his messages, what is the nickname of the literary character of Sir Percy Blakeney?

3. In January 2009, it was revealed that Prince Charles referred to an Asian member of his polo club by what nickname - a nickname that a number of people deemed to be racist?

4. Qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in 2006, which national football team are nicknamed the Soca Warriors?

5. Completed in 2003, the London skyscraper called 30 St Mary Axe is commonly known by what food-related nickname?

6. Which 1997 film has a two-word title that is a nickname for the US government agency called the Justice Prisoner and Alien Transportation System?

7. Which snooker player is nicknamed 00-147?

8. Gripper, Gonch and Zammo were all nicknames of characters in which BBC TV series?

9. In which district of London would you find Aorangi Terrace, a grassed banked area that has been known by a number of different nicknames in recent years?

10. Which blues musician was born McKinley Morganfield in 1913, but took his stage name from a childhood nickname he got given due his habit of playing in a local creek?

1. The Chase 2. The Scarlet Pimpernel 3. Sooty 4. Trinidad and Tobago 5. The Gherkin 6. Con Air 7. Nigel Bond 8. Grange Hill 9. Wimbledon (it has been known by nicknames such as Henman Hill, Rusedski Ridge and Murray Mound) 10. Muddy Waters

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41

The Villager Prize Crossword

Prize

£25

Across 7 Red fruit (6) 8 An agreement (6) 9 Water activity (4) 10 Pieces (8) 11 Non-attendance (7) 13 Slightly inebriated (5) 15 Quarrel (5) 17 Brine (7) 20 Holding tightly (8) 21 Pain (4) 22 Customer (6) 23 Soak up (6)

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



16th February 2018 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

Down 1 Spider’s trap (6) 2 Tepid (4) 3 Neat (7) 4 Begin (5) 5 Determined (8) 6 Smells badly (6) 12 Supplied with (8) 14 Line drawing (7) 16 Infrequently (6) 18 Cling to (6) 19 Unclean (5) 21 Plus (4)

Name: Tel: Address:

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Herts Gas.

Central heating specialists Caring local professional service by British Gas trained technician, 35 years experience.

Servicing New boilers installed Breakdowns Inspections Fault finding Please contact Iris or Peter on 01462 790342 office, 07971 958942 mobile E mail Hertsgas@live.co.uk Gas HP.indd To Herts advertise in The 1Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

17875

06/12/2017 11:36 43

Time of Year

How do you like your pancakes?

February 13th is Shrove Tuesday and I will be tossing pancakes with the best of them. Usually I am a traditionalist and favour lemon and sugar topping but this year in the interests of research I canvassed my friends for their favourite sweet and savoury pancake fillings, and tried them out. Here are my top seven.

Nutty chocolate spread and banana - This tasty filling bulks the pancakes out, and makes the batter go further. Perfect if there are lots of people at your pancake supper.

Fresh mango and Greek yoghurt with a splash of Cointreau - Very sophisticated and utterly delicious Fruits of the forest with vanilla ice cream and a splash of Amaretto liqueur - This one was a revelation. The liqueur works brilliantly with the fruit, and the hot pancakes with cold ice cream is a

sublime combination. Clearly I have classy friends!

Blueberries and maple syrup – This contribution from an American friend goes well with thick or thin pancakes. She tops hers with bacon, but you can leave that out. If you like.

Mushrooms, tomatoes and bacon - for a British brunchstyle pancake, or maybe a

savoury supper.

Wilted spinach and Ricotta cheese - Sprinkle with a little fresh nutmeg and this makes a very tasty vegetarian supper.

Stewed rhubarb and crème fraîche - You can prepare your rhubarb as tart or sweet as you like. I liked mine tart. The creme fraiche works really well with it. I scraped some vanilla seeds into mine and beat them in before serving. This is officially my new favourite way to eat pancakes.

By Sarah Davey

Enjoy

GAS SAFE REGISTERED

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Premier

Electrician

www.hertsandbedselectrical.co.uk

Property Maintenance Premier Property Maintenance is a multiple trade company operating in and around Hertfordshire and north London.

We are a well organized management team with a professional approach to Client Liaison, Supervision and Health and Safety.

We operate with a versatile in-house work force with various specialist trades, which results in our ability to provide our Client’s with an ‘all-trades’ service.

Do you find it difficult to get someone to come and do a small job?

Fault finding/repairs Extra lights and sockets New fuse boards Rewires P.A.T testing Landlord inspections

We pride ourselves on delivering a competitive quality service to new and existing Clients.

Premier Property Maintenance offers a comprehensive range of services including;  Fully managed bathroom and kitchen installation  Electrical and plumbing certificates for landlords  All aspects of electrical work covered by NIC installers  Plumbing and heating engineer  All aspects of carpentry work covered  Wall and floor tiling  Plastering and cornice work

 Painting and decorating including wallpaper  Roofing - slate and tiled  Brickwork  Laying of laminate and wooden flooring  Conservatory project manage and installation  Fully project managed garden landscaping  Window and conservatory cleaning

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Call Nigel on: 01438 553083 / 07941295883

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Emergency Call Outs Full & Partial Rewires Electrical Safety Reports CCTV Installation Security Lights Garden Lighting

Tel: 07854 738740 Email: info@dotelectrical.co.uk Web: www.dotelectrical.co.uk Find us on Facebook - Dot Electrical

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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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Kitchen | Bedroom | Home Study For all your design, supply and installation needs Family run business Visit our showroom: Unit E, Gateway 1000, Whittle Way, Arlington Business Park, Stevenage SG1 2FP Monday to Friday 10.00am to 5.00pm, Saturday 10.00am to 4.00pm

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