Great Ashby Feb 2019

VILLAGER The

February 2019

and Town

Life

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

In this issue The History of

Hysteria

My Gardening

Valentine 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...

Win a Bottle of Bedfordshire Bubbly and Vineyard Tour

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The History of Hysteria.....................................................4 That’s the Spirit - Gin........................................................8 Win a Bottle of Bedfordshire Bubbly.................. 12 Sing into Spring with Phoenix........................................15 How did you sleep?........................................................16 You don’t have to drink to suffer from alcoholism..........18 How to Effortlessly Wear Living Coral.............................21 Money Worries...............................................................22 My Gardening Valentine.................................................24

Greensand Country Announces 2019 Festival.................27 R.A.T.S. Rehoming Appeal..............................................29 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe.........................................30 The Living Room, Stevenage..........................................32 Reasons why you should join a WI in 2019.....................35 Puzzle page....................................................................36 What’s On.......................................................................38 Prize Crossword................................................ 42

Greensand Country 2019 Festival

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Get your business off to a flying start this year

Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £30.00 +VAT per month Editorial Catherine Rose, Trevor Langley, Dr. Michelle O’Reilly, Jennie Billings, Rachael Leverton and Nick Coffer.

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

Publishers Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 261122 Email: nigel@villagermag.com www.villagermag.com

Disclaimer - All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however, Villager Publications Ltd can not take any responsibility for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the editorial.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher.

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History

The History of Hysteria

By Catherine Rose Everyone knows the modern day meaning of hysteria. The Oxford dictionary defines it as ‘exaggerated or uncontrollable emotion or excitement, especially among a group of people’.

But did you know it was also an old-fashioned term for a female medical condition during the 19th century? The following article contains sensitive material!

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The term hysteria comes from the Ancient Greek word for womb. Physicians believed that many female ailments were caused by a ‘wandering uterus’ that moved around inside the body resulting in blockages that caused all kinds of physical diseases.

During the second century, a Roman physician, surgeon and philosopher named Galen

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hypothesised that the disease of hysteria was caused by sexual deprivation so was most prevalent in nuns, virgins and widows.

During the sexually repressed Victorian era, doctors’ diagnosis of hysteria in female patients became increasingly common. In 1859, a French physician, Dr Pierre Briquet claimed that a quarter of Victorian women suffered from what he called hysteron-neurasthenic disorders.

Physicians believed that many female ailments were caused by a ‘wandering uterus’ It was believed that women were of a more nervous disposition than men and could develop any number of psychological symptoms from the simple fact they possessed a womb. Hysteria would be diagnosed from a range of physical symptoms such as feeling faint, anxiety, insomnia, fluid retention, muscle spasms, breathlessness, loss of appetite, emotional instability and irritability. It was therefore easy for a woman to be misdiagnosed with hysteria when she really had a serious physical condition such as epilepsy.

The cure was simple however. The patient was advised to have regular sexual intercourse.

However, for unmarried women, this simply wasn’t possible, so doctors would carry out pelvic massage to induce what they termed ‘hysterical paroxysm’.

This seems shocking to us today, despite the fact we are far more sexually liberated and educated than these Victorian women were, many of whom led such sheltered lives they didn’t even know what sexual intercourse involved until they married.

Other treatments for hysteria could include bed rest, bland food, isolation and lack of any mental stimulation. In extreme cases a hysterectomy was performed, or the woman was sent to an asylum.

Contrary to what you might expect, physicians considered pelvic massage to be no more than a medical duty. In fact, it was looked upon as a tiresome task that often took time and effort to achieve. As a result, to meet the growing need for the treatment of ‘hysterical’ women, the first vibrator was invented – not the modern sex toy, but a bona fide medical aid.

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Initially, treatment was hydrotherapy-based.

Hydrotherapy had in fact been around since the 1700s at bath houses for general massage and wellbeing (much as in spas today), but it was now specifically redesigned for pelvic massage via a jet of water attached to a special chair.

Then in 1870, a clockwork vibrator became available. Three years later, an electromechanical device was invented and is said to have been tried out at an asylum in France.

Rather frighteningly, an American doctor, George Taylor, came up with a steam-powered vibrator called ‘The Manipulator’ in 1869 that was the size of a dining room table and needed coal regularly shovelled into it to make it work!

By the beginning of the 20th century hand-held portable electrical vibrators such as ‘Dr Harry F Waite’s Tissue Oscillator’ were now available to the general public so that women suffering from hysteria could treat themselves in the privacy of their own home.

The development of psychology and increased understanding of the human mind meant that the idea of hysteria was replaced by more accurate diagnoses of either physical or specific psychological conditions such as personality disorders, anxiety and neuroses.

As for vibrators, they gradually came to be seen not as health aids but as devices for sexual gratification and were appearing in pornographic films as early as the 1930s, long after respectable doctors had disowned them as a form of medical treatment.

The American Psychiatric Society dropped the term ‘hysteria’ in 1952 and today it is no longer recognised as a medical condition.

However, there are still psychological definitions related to the term. Histrionic personality disorder for example is said to affect around two to three percent of the population. People with this disorder tend to be overemotional and exhibit attention-seeking behaviour, amongst other traits. Psychoanalysis now uses the terms ‘conversion’ or ‘somatization’ disorder for people who are suffering from symptoms that are rooted in the mind and have no apparent physical cause, whether patients are women or not.

A film with an all-star cast including Sheridan Smith and Jonathon Pryce about the invention of the vibrator was released in 2011. It was called ‘Hysteria’.

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Food and Drink

That’s the Spirit

Gin

Gin’s basic flavour is from juniper berries and gin making can be traced back to the Middle Ages. Today, many gins are widely available. There are different styles of gins, plus flavoured and very aromatic gins, too. Gin cocktails continue to be hugely popular, with many ‘devotees’.

Warner Edwards are creators and distillers of hand-crafted, artisan gins. Their Victoria’s Rhubarb Gin is named because the original rhubarb crop, from which the current rhubarb crops are descended, was grown in the kitchen garden of Buckingham Palace, during Queen Victoria’s reign. The mouthfeel and palate enjoys the tangy sweetness. Also, prosecco makes a great mix with this gin. Other Warner Edwards hand-crafted gins include their splendid Harrington Dry. www.warneredwards.com The Cotswolds Distillery, established 2014, produces an excellent quality, hand-crafted, dry gin, which is unfiltered, so as to retain all the flavour of the botanical extracts and essential oils. This classic production is produced in small batches and is well-balanced, with an ‘inviting’ nose of citrus amongst the bouquet’s appeal. The mouthfeel and palate continue the enjoyment, which is clean and crisp. This exceptional gin is part of their range. www.cotswoldsdistillery.com Gordon’s is a very well-established company. Premium Pink Distilled Gin I found refreshing and aromatic. The inclusion of raspberry, strawberry and redcurrant ‘natural flavourings’, make for a superbly-balanced and often-selected gin production. Another impressive gin, inspired by Gordon’s original pink gin recipe of 1880. A company dedicated and committed to producing and supplying high-quality drinks. www.gordonsgin.com Chase Rhubarb & Bramley Apple is a single-estate production, from the Chase Distillery Company, Chase distils from the field to the bottle and has an excellent range of drinks. This gin is carefully crafted by distilling G B gin with freshly-pressed rhubarb and bramley apple juice, which comes directly from the farm. This impressive production is perfect anytime and great for spritz cocktails. www.chasedistillery.co.uk I located these gins at Waitrose, the food and retail division of John Lewis Partnership. Founded during 1904, Waitrose possesses a royal warrant to supply groceries and offers food and beverages of outstanding quality, many of which are multi award-winning. www.waitrose.com

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

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WIN A BOTTLE OF

BEDFORDSHIRE BUBBLY and a Vineyard Tour for two at

Warden Abbey Vineyard Did you know Bedfordshire’s medieval vineyard is now an exciting community project?

Nestled in the rolling Bedfordshire hills, this beautiful five acre field near Old Warden was first planted with vines in medieval times by monks at Warden Abbey - one of the oldest Cistercian settlements in England. Centuries later, the monks’ “Lyttel Vineyard” was re-planted and has produced award-winning wines ever since, with medals at regional, national and international level.

Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity now lease the vineyard and run it as a “not for profit” community project, offering opportunities for learning, improving physical and mental wellbeing, and reducing isolation. All proceeds from wine sales go to keeping the project going.

Today it’s an army of volunteers who turn out in sun, rain and even snow to tend the vines. They also promote the project, fund-raise, run tours and talks, a donate-a-vine scheme, school visits, as well as social and therapeutic horticulture, wildlife and heritage projects.

Public and group tours are held on a number of dates each year (see website). Also, visitors to the annual Open Day on Sept 8th will be able to discover its history, tour the vineyard, taste wines and relax with local food and craft stalls, children’s activities and BBQ. Tel: 07981 113714 Email: info@wardenvineyard.org.uk Website: www.wardenvineyard.org.uk

Competition

(Entrants must be aged 18 or over)

To enter, answer the question and complete the form below and send to: Warden Abbey Vineyard Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP. Deadline: 16th February 2019.

Tour vouchers will be posted out to the winner, and the bottle of wine will be available for collection during their tour.

Alternatively, the winner may arrange to collect the wine at another time. Please note the prize CANNOT be delivered.

WARDEN ABBEY VINEYARD COMPETITION ENTRY

Which well known Bedfordshire “Pilgrim” is the vineyard’s Nonconformist wine named after?

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Local News

Sing into Spring with Phoenix!

Looking for something new to try? Do you love to sing in the car, or the shower?

Or maybe you used to sing in a choir, and are looking for a new opportunity?

Sing into Spring with Phoenix!

Starting on 5th March, Phoenix Chorus are running a 4-week course in A Cappella singing. If you’re a fan of the Pitch Perfect movies or Pitch Battle and The Voice on TV, here’s your chance to try it.

Indulge your love of music and singing Experience the unique 4-part a cappella harmony Make time for you at least one night a week for a month, to do something you really enjoy!

We’re a Ladies A Cappella chorus based in Potton, Beds, but our members come from all over, most within a 25 mile radius. As long as you’re at least 16 we’d love you to join us in March so we can all learn a new song together and you can take part in a free ‘Friends and Family’ performance too.

Have a look at our website https://phoenixladies. co.uk or call us on 07845 101799 for further information on how you can……

Sing into Spring! We’d love to meet you!

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Health

How did you sleep?

“There are twelve hours in the day, and above fifty in the night.” (Marie de Rabutin-Chantal) Sorry to be nosey, but did you sleep well last night? The answer to this will have huge implications not just for getting through your day today, but also for your future physical and mental health.

In our caffeinated, over-stimulated, 24-hour day world, only a lucky few of us seem to escape the all-enveloping clutches of disrupted and inadequate sleep. The consequences are simply staggering. An explosion of biological evidence in recent years shows that inadequate sleep ambushes your immune system, even increasing your risk of cancer. While you sleep, your body produces cytokines, which help to fight off infections and illness. Sleep loss also puts the health of our hearts at serious risk; short sleep increases the likelihood of our coronary arteries getting blocked, leading to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and heart failure. Insufficient sleep is also known to increase our risk for weight gain and obesity (short sleep raises the levels of the hormone ghrelin that makes us feel hungry) and diabetes (too little sleep disrupts our blood sugar levels).

Our brains are extremely vulnerable too. Recent neuroscientific evidence shows that getting too little sleep across your lifespan will significantly raise your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Our mental health is jeopardised; sleep problems contribute to depression, anxiety, even suicidality.

Too little sleep affects our ability to remember, as suggested by studies showing that sleep helps consolidate long-term memory. Neuroimaging studies have established that just one night of sleep deprivation impairs learning and encoding -related activity in the hippocampus, a structure that is associated with memory and is located deep within the middle of the brain.

Other cognitive abilities are also in the line of fire, especially attention i.e. our ability to focus, to ignore distractions, and to multi-task.

Neuroimaging research shows that activity in the frontal parts of our brain during attention tasks is reliably affected by sleep loss. Tragically, these attention deficits are implicated in the huge numbers of traffic accidents and fatalities caused

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by sleep-deprived driving.

Sleep loss triggers changes in how we process our emotions too. Only one night of sleep deprivation resulted in a 60% increase in reactivity of the part of the brain responsible for processing emotion (especially fear and anxiety): the amygdala. This occurred in response to negative images such as spiders, snakes, and mutilations. The reward system of our brain also gets highjacked by a bad night’s sleep. Does reaching for another chocolate when you’re tired sound familiar? The reward network in the brain also shows sensitivity to sleep deprivation; this susceptibility is due to altered function of the dopamine neurotransmitter and leads to changes in risk-taking behaviours, sensation-seeking, and impulsivity.

So what can poor sleepers do about this quite alarming constellation of risks? Thankfully, there are many different ways to improve our sleep. In my next article here next month, I will set out the methods that are backed up by solid scientific evidence for getting a restorative night of sweet, precious sleep.

by Dr. Michelle O’Reilly Ph.D. Neuroscientist, science writer and lifelong insomniac.

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Local News

You don’t have to drink to suffer from alcoholism In these enlightened times alcoholism is not only recognised, but is given considerable media coverage. What is not so readily recognised is the plight of those who love a problem drinker, whether they be parent, partner, child, sibling or friend.

Alcoholism has many faces from the functioning drunk who may never show the amount of drink taken, may not be abusive or violent, never lose a job or fall foul of the law to one who terrorises everyone he or she has contact with. The problem may manifest at an early age or progress over years, but whatever way it goes it becomes an increasing nightmare to those who live with it.

The onslaught of emotions, from feelings of rejection, insecurity, fearfulness, resentment and anger can culminate in utter despair. What can we do? Who can we talk to? Where can we go?

Al-Anon Family Groups is an international network of support groups which for over sixty years has offered a place of emotional safety and recovery from despair for the family and friends of problem drinkers. Group members understand and support and by sharing their own experience and strength can bring hope to those who have lost all hope.

There are groups in Bedford, Shefford, Letchworth and Stevenage.

For more information go to www.al-anonuk.org.uk , ring the help line 0800 0086 811 between 10.00am and 10.00pm or email enquiries@al-anonuk.org.uk Over 60 years of support for the family and firends of problem drinkers AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

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House of Colour

How To Effortlessly Wear

Living Coral – The Colour of 2019 The Pantone Colour Institute has announced their colour of 2019 is the gorgeous Living Coral (16-1546) but can we all wear this warm and energising colour?

Through their extensive research, The Pantone Institute chose Living Coral ‘partly as an antidote’ to the ‘cold and distant’ digital world and as ‘a shade of connection’.

How to wear it….

1. We associate coral with the fresh, warmth and sun-kissed coral seas of Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines – but the gorgeous warm hue that is Living Coral will not work for all skin tones; particularly those that suit cool colours. Some of us have warm pigment in our skin which is yellow based, while others of us have cool pigment which is blue based. When you wear the right tones for your skin you will look brighter, fresher and younger but when a blue based cool skin undertone is wearing warm colours they appear sallow and slightly blurred. Equally when someone with a warm yellow based skin undertone wears cool colours they will appear washed out, older and tired. Coral is a warm yellow based pink and so will suit those with warm skin tones much better than those with cool.

2. Don’t despair though if you are cool toned ie if you have a Winter or Summer colour palette, blue based equivalents range from Winter’s shocking pink, magenta and ice pink to Summer’s softer rose, powder pink or raspberry. If you are cool toned but still want to wear the oh so modern Living Coral then an alternative is to wear a pattern with a splash and a dash of coral.

3. Springs and Autumns should check their own wardrobes before racing to the shops. You may

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already have variants of coral - which range from soft peach through to perfect coral and orange reds - which look gorgeous on you and are already within your capsule wardrobe. Shockingly 30% of the clothes in British wardrobes are rarely worn.

If you do want to buy something of sartorial style in Living Coral consider whether you would better suit wearing Living Coral from head to toe in a gorgeous maxi dress or summer suit, but for others it may best work as a blouse or as summer trousers.

As a pop of colour, coral looks gorgeous as a scarf, belt, shoes or handbag, particularly against a backdrop of a warm navy and maybe more in 2019’s spring and summer time which are the times of year when coral naturally finds its way into the shops. Using a pop of coral in these types of accessories will also work well with your neutrals for a memorable business look.

Coral is also fantastic in a lipstick, blusher and on nails for those with warm colour tones. Just make sure you don’t go too orange, which can look exciting on some people but not on everyone.

At a time when looking at how to drastically reduce pollution, plastics, disposal and carbon emissions is of critical importance, Living Coral couldn’t be timelier. Just as coral reefs are a source of sustenance and shelter to sea life, Living Coral reminds us of our precious world and our responsibility to protect it.

By Jennie Billings, Colour and Style Consultant,HOUSE OF COLOUR www.houseofcolour.co.uk/jenniebillings jennie.billings@houseofcolour.co.uk www.pantone.com/color-of-the-year-2019

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Citizens Advice

Money Worries?

The end of January will be the busiest time for people seeking help with their debts, Citizens Advice Stevenage predicts. Last year one person sought help from Citizens Advice every ten seconds!

Citizens Advice offers advice on a wide range of issues. Those with money problems are referred to the ‘Get out of debt, stay out of debt’ project which is run by specialist debt advisers, Mascha and Clare and volunteer advisers. “The project is very successful”, says Nina Villa, CEO. “The first 18 months of the project helped 405 clients and increased their income by nearly £100,000 and helped write off debts of more than £325,000.”

“The post-Christmas spending hangover is a factor this time of year”, Mascha says. “Families spent too much over the holidays and now the credit card statements are hitting the doormat.”

“Being in debt can be embarrassing and stressful”, says Clare. “Clients often struggle on for five or more years sinking further into debt before seeking help. The final straw is often when the landlord threatens with eviction or the bailiffs are sent round to collect council tax.

Not everybody realises that enforcement agents are allowed to add charges to a bill, which can add hundreds of pounds to a debt”.

The link between long-term debt and mental health is well documented, however, 80% of clients say that our advice “improved my life”; 70% feeling “less stressed”; 77% say that they could not have solved their problem without our help.

At Citizens Advice, the project deals daily with the impact of debt. “Clients are weighed down by the burden of debt for years. Often they can’t see a way out and are totally overwhelmed. A

few years ago it was all credit card and payday loan debts. Now we see clients who are in lowpaid employment, struggling to pay essential bills. We regularly send clients to the foodbank to help them survive” says Clare.

Take Helen* for example. An abusive partner forced her to take out multiple credit cards and used them to spend in her name. By the time the relationship ended, she had debts of more than £40,000. The pressure led her to become clinically depressed and reclusive and she left work. She barely left the house and avoided people. Eventually she sought our help. It took hours of work but Citizens Advice persuaded some creditors to write off the debts. Once the total debt dropped below £20,000, we were able to apply for a Debt Relief Order. Resolving her debt problems has made a big difference: “I have some hope for the future again thanks to the help from Citizens Advice. They’ve been absolutely brilliant.”

Citizens Advice Stevenage drop-in service runs Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 10am until 3:30pm.

Our Adviceline is available Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm 03444 111 444 Citizens Advice relies on a group of dedicated and passionate volunteers in a variety of roles.

To find out more, please visit www.stevenagecab.org.uk Or email recruitment@stevenagecab.co.uk *Name changed

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Garden View

My Gardening Valentine

By Rachael Leverton

In the run-up to Valentine’s Day someone always asks me what they should buy for the gardener in their life.

It’s a tricky question to answer. Many people think we must like cut flowers, but actually I’m not keen and most gardeners I know aren’t either. We have gardens full of the things after all, and we tend to prefer our plants living and breathing in their natural environment, rather than imported from abroad and wrapped in cellophane.

Unless you know a bit about gardening, and the tastes of your own particular gardener you’re probably best-off avoiding plants too. The nongreen-fingered venture into dangerous territory when they try to buy plants because there are so many variables. Will it suit the soil? Is it too invasive? Will it poison the gardener’s dog…or children…eek?

It’s a thorny issue (pardon the pun) so here is my go-to gift list guaranteed to make you the Valentine hero of your gardening amour.

Don’t buy a sweatshirt which declares ‘headgardener. They are naff, and most gardeners prefer old, comfy clothes which do the job better.

However, if you present your gardener with a tough tunic or gardening apron, which is thornproof, and which has lots of deep pockets to house secateurs and trowels, they will love you forever.

Then there are wellies. Who knew wellies could be romantic? But gardening folk drool over wellies the way Supermodels drool over Jimmy Choos.

And there’s so much wellie-choice now. We all prefer something with a thick sole but there are bright and colourful wellies and traditional ones.

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For the ultimate in warmth and breathability I can recommend a proper Gore-Tex pair...sheer luxury. Mine remain the favourite Valentine gift my husband ever bought me. He knows how to romance a woman!

A proper long-necked watering can, with a brass rose will also earn you Valentine brownie points.

Bigger isn’t necessarily better though unless your Valentine boasts big biceps! Watering cans are heavy when full. I find 3-4 litres is about the right size.

A bunch of long-stemmed red roses will set you back at least £40 and they might last a few days.

For a similar price you can buy the gardener in your life Felco secateurs (with Valentine red handles) and they’ll last forever. I know which I’d prefer.

Garden trugs are so practical. Most gardeners I know would be delighted to receive one. The trug is a great gift but even better when filled with a few gardening goodies such as packets of seed, water retaining granules, plant food etc. You could add some hand tools too, such as a trowel and a fork. Make sure they are stainless steel and have long handles for ease of use.

And insulated mug or a good flask will always warm the heart of your Valentine because hot drinks don’t remain hot for long outside, even on a warm day.

Finally, don’t forget gardening vouchers. Often us gardeners spot the perfect plant or gardening accessory when we’re strapped for cash, so vouchers are a perfect gift to save for a rainy day... and gardeners love rainy days, Valentine’s or not.

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20/02/2017 16:40

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Local News

Greensand Country Announces 2019 Festival Following the huge success of the first Greensand Country Festival in 2018, the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership is planning an even BIGGER and BETTER programme of events for 2019, and extending the Festival to run throughout May. The Greensand Country Festival, from 1 – 31 May, will encompass a wide variety of events, provided by our partners, local businesses, special interest groups, clubs and visitor attractions across the landscape, from Leighton Buzzard to Gamlingay.

The Festival is a celebration of Greensand Country, helping to encourage those living within this distinct landscape to get out and explore the beautiful countryside on their doorstep. There are a variety of events already scheduled, including open gardens, churchyard tours, history talks, nature walks, village treasure trails, introductory sessions for bowls, photo and poetry competitions, art workshops, children’s activities and traditional country crafts.

Lindsay Measures, Events and Engagements Officer at the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership

explains: “We were overwhelmed with the fantastic response to our first Greensand Country Festival and have therefore decided to extend the programme this year. With family fun, trail runs, countryside walks, horse-rides, guided trains and nature activities, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.”

The Greensand Country Festival is a great opportunity for local organisations and businesses to promote our shared landscape for the benefit of everyone. If you have an idea for an event or would like to run an activity, please contact lindsay@ greensandcountry.com The Greensand Country Landscape Partnership is led by the Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity and the Greensand Trust and funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. It is made possible by National Lottery players. Without them we couldn’t fund the project.

For further information about the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership visit www.greensandcountry.com and for regular updates follow @greensandsocial on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Wishing all customers a very Happy New Year

Safe and Secure Doggy Day Care For dogs up to 8 kilos A home from home for your 4 legged friend Wonderful Hertfordshire countryside walks Structured Play Activities Maximum of 4 dogs at any one time Day Care, Nightly, Weekend or Long Vacation stays available Fully training in Dog CPR, First Aid and Safety Fully Insured and licensed from SBC Please visit website for further details

Tel: 01438 725551 / 07535 990 384 Email: liz@smallpaws.biz Web: www.smallpaws.biz

Four Paws

Henry Cook

Dog Walker / Handler fourpaws1980@gmail.com

07943 159918 Hertfordshire 28

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Rehoming Appeal

Pets

Disney

This is Disney, a very loving 3 year old Lurcher who likes people and other dogs. She walks well on the lead and is house trained.

Like most Lurchers, Disney has a high chase instinct, so she would not be suitable to rehome with cats or other small mammals. She will also need to be kept on a lead when not in an enclosed area as she will chase any small creature, including cats. She will need a large garden to run around in, which must have an extra high secure fence as she has no problem in jumping fences of 8 ft. or less.

Disney is becoming depressed in the kennels, so if you can offer this lovely girl a home, please contact Julie on 01763 289827. Any potential home will be vetted by one of our volunteers.

Alternatively, please e-mail Philippa at info.rats@gmail.com who will be pleased to forward your enquiry on to the team.

View other small mammals, dogs and cats currently in our care for re-homing on our website: www.rats-animalrescue.co.uk or facebook: www.facebook.com/ratscharity You can also see photographs and details of the animals in our care in our charity shop in Hitchin Street, Biggleswade SG18 8AX. Open Monday to Saturday from 10.00 am until 4.00 pm.

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Three Counties Radio

Caramel Drip Cake

As we head into a New Year, this is a show-stopper cake to banish all the blues. What is great about it is how you can make it look so spectacular with relatively easy techniques. It’s the creation of a lovely cake maker, Hayley Pfeifer, from the Dunstable Cake House, who is a regular on my Weekend Kitchen show. She likes her cakes big, bold and glamorous and this caramel drip cake fits the mould perfectly!

For the sponge: 450g caster sugar 450g self-raising flour 450g butter 450g eggs (approx. 8 Large Eggs) A tablespoon of store-bought caramel from a jar A little drizzle of caramel flavouring Buttercream 500g butter 1000g icing sugar Drizzle of caramel Flavouring Extra caramel from the store-bought jar for filling and drip effect Flake chocolate for decorating Pre-heat oven to 160C/ Gas Mark 3

1. Line 3 x 8” tins 2. Mix the butter and caster sugar together until creamy and fluffy. Add the sieved flour gradually, then add the eggs, the caramel and flavouring.

3. Divide the mix between the tins, then put them into the oven.

4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a skewer comes out of the sponges clean.

5. Leave the cakes to cool on a wire rack.

6. Mix the butter and icing sugar together for the buttercream filling and add a drizzle of caramel flavouring.

7. Take one cake. Spread caramel on top, then buttercream.Top it with another cake, then repeat the caramel and buttercream filling.Top with the last cake.

8. Add buttercream to the top and sides and create a smooth finish using a side scraper or a pallet knife dipped into some hot water.

9. Pour lots of caramel onto the top centre of the cake and use a pallet knife to ease the caramel towards the edges to create the drips. Be creative - it’ll look different every time.

10. Sprinkle some chocolate flakes on the top and it’s ready to serve.

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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Local News

The Living Room, Stevenage

Morgan joined The Living Room in Stevenage (TLRH) in January as a lunchtime mentor. The Living Room is a free to attend Alcohol and Addiction recovery service.

Being in recovery himself for the last five years, he has experienced and now sees how the “miracle of change” can happen when a good support structure and environment is in place.

He is helping to raise awareness and funds with a motorcycle tour around the UK, aiming to visit over 30 rehabilitation centres, travelling 2500 miles. Called “It’s good to talk” UK tour for recovery, Morgan says that it was talking and listening that saved his life. He says “Sometimes asking for help can feel like the most difficult place to be. To feel there is no choice, or there is no other way other than relying on ones own self.

So it was only by learning to become humble that my life started to change. My life today is a world away from what is was, a life of choices, dreams that do come true rather than not. And to give back what was so freely given to me, to help others as I get well” The work done at The Living Room does change people’s lives. To see some come in barely able to speak or communicate. Then after time you see a smile where there wasn’t one before, to see the weight being lifted from their shoulders. And when you see people leave with optimism, and excited about the future that lies ahead, it is a joy to watch.

Thanks to Joe Feely whom having done this ride previously in 2004 has inspired me.

Your support really does make a difference. Thank you. https://www.livingroomherts.org/fundraisers/uktour2019

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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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Local News

Reasons why you should join a WI in 2019!

No matter if you’re from Baldock area or somewhere else in the UK, joining a WI could be a great thing for you to do in 2019, and here are some reasons why: • You will be part of something really special. The WI is the largest voluntary women’s organisation in the UK, which is something we are very proud of, so we would love to see more women joining, or even more WIs being set up!

• Your voice will be heard. By joining a WI, you will be able to make a real impact on local, national and international issues.

• You will have the opportunity to learn, develop and pass on your skills. At the WI, we are all about sharing our knowledge, so if you have some kitchen secrets, craft tips, garden hints or anything you feel would benefit a group, you would be able to share!

• You will be able to attend at least 11 monthly meetings, with the added opportunity to take part in other additional events, trips, clubs and activities that we run.

• You will have access to WI Life, the WI membership magazine. They release 8 issues a year that are packed full of WI news and event information.

• You will be given a membership discount on a wide variety of courses at Denman (http://www.denman.org. uk) the WI’s own residential college in Oxfordshire. There are courses on almost anything you can think of so look on the website.

• You can get to know like-minded women in your area. The WI is a great way to meet new people and make friends that are interested in similar things to you.

If you’re interested in finding out more about the WI organisation you can look at the national WI website – https://www.thewiorg.uk.

Or you can contact Baldock and Clothall WI on baldockclothallwi@hotmail.co.uk Or look at our facebook page Baldockclothallwi.

It would be a great to do or even look into, so why not take the leap?

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0800 046 1080 UP TO 40% OFF IN FEBRUARY hello@thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk www.thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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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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37

n O s ’ t Wha In February

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

February Exhibition: ‘ Joseph Lancaster’s Educational Revolution’ British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin Supported by a £50,000 grant through the AIM Biffa Award History Makers scheme.

Joseph Lancaster was a visionary pioneer of elementary education. His work brought school within reach of millions of children around the world. It is also a very local story. The Museum boasts the world’s only remaining Lancasterian Schoolroom.

The AIM Biffa Award grant has allowed the Museum to use a variety of high-tech approaches to tell the fascinating story of Lancaster and those who continued and benefited from his work. There will be video, audio and interactive elements, all presented to retain the Museum’s unique authentic experience. Check website for dates.

Tel: 01462 420144 Website: www.britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk 1 February RSPB Hitchin & Letchworth Local Group 7.30pm ‘The Settlement’, Nevells Road, Letchworth Garden City Local group members free, Visitors £3 ‘Birds: their Hidden World’ with Peter Holden MBE. This talk looks at British birds and their amazing lives, the sort of information that most ‘bird books’ leave out! Peter worked for the RSPB for over 40 years and we are delighted to welcome him back to Letchworth. Tel: 01763 249459 Email: martinrjspc@hotmail.com 1, 8, 15 & 22 February Springfield House Friday Bridge Club 1.30pm Springfield House (the home of the Old Stevenage Community Centre) To play cut-in Chicago Bridge. Play is informal and friendly. Tel: Richard Bean 01438 221517 2 February The Signals Museum Open Day 10am-4pm The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open to the public. Entry is free but official photo ID such as a driving licence, passport or over 60s Bus Pass is required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom.

Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk

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4, 11, 18 & 25 February Staplers Country Dance Club 8-10pm St John’s Community Hall, Hitchin Staplers is a social folk dance club. It’s easy to start as all the dances are walked through first then called and you don’t need to come with a partner; lots of us come on our own.

We are a friendly group and you will be made very welcome. Car parking is available next to the hall. We meet every Monday apart from bank holidays and the school summer holidays. Tel. 01462 895567 or 01462 624144 Web: www.staplers.org.uk 4, 11, 18 & 25 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.

It was formed in 1995 to bring together single, divorced, widowed and separated people, aged 40 upwards, from the Herts, Beds and Bucks area, to socialise and enjoy one another’s company.

Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 Web: www.branch-out.org.uk 5, 12, 19 & 26 February Stevenage Bridge Club 7.30pm Priory Nursery, Stanmore Road, Old Stevenage To play Duplicate Bridge. A host system is run to find partners, if required. A wide level of ability play at the club.

Tel: Phil Cooper 07957 813434 6 February North Herts Association of the National Trust 7.30pm Christchurch, Bedford Road, Hitchin Visitors £2 on the door. ‘Inspirational Women’ by author Damien O’Dell. He will talk about some women who shaped and changed our society against the odds and their legacy, including Queen Elizabeth I, Octavia Hill and Odette Churchill. Non-members welcome.

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

Tel: Secretary Mrs Colette House 01462 815585 Email: colettehouse@gmail.com

7, 14, 21 & 28 February The Hitchin Thursday Club 9.30am-12 noon St John’s Community Hall, Hitchin A friendly group which meets every Thursday morning for recreational painting, drawing, etc.. The group is very easy going in its attitude to art - only doing your own thing. Still Life and raffle every month. No qualifications required - just come along with your drawing gear and you’ll receive a very warm welcome. Tel: Pauline 01767 315553 7, 14, 21 & 28 February Roundabouters Country Dance Club 8-10pm Friends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage Friendly club for English country dancing. We welcome new members, both beginners and experienced. All dances walked through; club and guest callers ensure a varied programme.

Live music from Carousel Band on 7th Feb and AGM on 21st Feb. Tel: 01438 727239 Email: roundabouters@live.co.uk Web: www.roundabouters.org.uk 7, 14, 21 & 28 February Stevenage Plus Social Group 8.15pm for 8.30pm Holiday Inn Express (opposite Matalan), Stevenage £2 - first night free Stevenage Plus Social Group is a fun and friendly social group with members in their 30s and 40s from Stevenage, North Herts and surrounding areas. We have a varied programme of events on Thursday and Saturday evenings as well as day trips and weekends away. New members are always welcome. Tel: 01438 231550.

Email: welcome@stevenage.plus Web: www.stevenageplus.co.uk 7, 14, 21 & 28 February Sapphire Social Club 8.30pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin We are a small and friendly group for single people generally aged 50 and above. We offer a variety of social events during the month and the opportunity to meet and make new friends. Potential new members are warmly welcome to come along and meet us with no joining fee for the first two months.

Tel: Joyce 07952 678021 or Ian 07900 890583 Web: www.sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk

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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

8 February Unicorn Ceilidh 7.30-11pm St Mary’s Church Hall, Church Street, Baldock Adults £10, Concessions and family tickets available. With Urban Folk Theory and Barry Goodman. Ceilidh dances are great fun, easy to learn - and addictive! Clear instructions from the caller before and during each dance allow anyone to join in and enjoy the dancing. Our combination of the finest live bands, top callers and a bar serving local Real Ale and Cider plus wine and soft drinks guarantee an excellent, fun-filled evening for all. Tickets are available on the door but advance purchase is recommended.

Email: enquiries@unicornceilidhs.org.uk Web: www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk Tickets: www.ticketsource.co.uk/unicornceilidhs 12 & 26 February Hitchin & District Probus Club 12 noon for 1pm Priory Hotel, Hitchin Social club for retired and semi-retired professional and business-men which meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month for lunch. Organised visits and events throughout the year. New members welcome. Tel: Roger Burt 01438 351891 Email: roger@mazda20.plus.com 14 February Stevenage RSPB Local Group trip to Willington 9.30am A morning walk near the river Great Ouse, with a stop half way for refreshments at Danish Camp cafe. Meet at Willington Dovecote NT car park at 9.30am. Map ref: 153/TL 106499. Postcode MK44 3PX. Tel: Leader Graham Beevor 01438 232055 15 February Letchworth Chamber Music Concert 7.45 pm Howgills Friends Meeting House, 42 South View Tickets £15, Students & Under 18s £7 Concert by Kate Romano (clarinet) and Simon Marlow (piano) playing works by Schumann (Fantasy Pieces for clarinet and piano), Poulenc (Sonata for clarinet and piano) and Arthur Benjamin (Le Tombeau de Ravel). Tickets available on the door.

Web: www.letchworthmusicclub.co.uk

15 February-24 November The British Schools Museum 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin Adults £5.50, Children 5-17 £3, Under 5s free The British Schools Museum re-opens for public visits. Please check the website for opening hours and for special activities during school holidays. Last entry time for the museum is 30 minutes before closing time. Discounts available for family groups.

Please allow at least two hours for your visit.

On the first Sunday of each month you can enjoy a Victorian lesson at no extra charge.

Advance booking is recommended.

Tel: 01462 420144 Website: www.britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk 17 February Hitchin & Letchworth Local Group RSPB Coach Trip Coach fares Adults £15.50 Under 18s £7.75 Abberton Reservoir EWT and Tollesbury, Essex. After spending the morning at Abberton, we will continue to Tollesbury on the Blackwater estuary, where we will look for raptors, waders and water birds. Coach Pick Up Points: Letchworth: 7.45am. Hitchin: 8.00am. Stevenage: 8.10am. Recommended donation of £2.00 at Abberton.

Tel: 01763 249459 Email: martinrjspc@hotmail.com Web: rspb.org.uk/groups/ hitchinandletchworth 20 February ‘Kids Discovery Day’ 10am-12pm & 1-3pm British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin £5 per child inc. drink and biscuit, Adults free Join us at the Museum this half-term and let the kids get creative making some Victorian inspired toys and games. From kaleidoscopes to peg dolls, there will be lots of traditional toys to design, craft and take home to enjoy, and also a large scale collaborative work for all to contribute towards and play with. Activities are aimed at children aged 4-11 years. All children to be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. Booking recommended. The Museum is not open outside of the stated activity session times on these days and not all the Museum displays will be accessible.

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

22 February Hitchin Book Club 5pm Orange tree, Hitchin Admission £2. A friendly group who meets the last Friday of each month. No pressure to read books just turn up for a drink and chat.

Web: https://hitchinbookclub.simdif.com or https://www.meetup.com/Hitchin-BookClub/ 24 February Stevenage RSPB Local Group trip to Marston Vale Country Park 9.30am £2.50, Concessions £1.75 for wetland nature reserve. A morning visit to the park south west of Bedford. Meet in the car park at 9.30am. OS Map Ref: 153/TL 004417.

Postcode MK43 0PS. Tel: Leader Trevor Storey 01438 226014 9 March Table Top sale 10am-12 noon St. Mary’s Church Hall, Stotfold Organised by Friends of St. Mary’s Church.

Refreshments and Raffle. Proceeds for the restoration of the church. Tables £5.

Tel: Chris Webster 01462 834108 Hitchin & Surrounding Areas Fun & Social Stuff A welcoming social group based in Hitchin, but, also includes the surrounding areas. We arrange monthly socials, drinks socials, live music, pub quizzes, cinema, etc.. The group is a variety of people over 18 getting to know others in a social and friendly setting whilst also enjoying themselves.

Email: meetup3@outlook.com Web: https://www.meetup.com/meetupgroup-HVrvZZiQ Hitchin Bridge Club Hitchin Bridge Club plays duplicate bridge several times each week. All levels of experience welcomed, hosts are available at some sessions for players without a partner. Workshops each month on topics for improving players. Beginners courses are run every year starting in October. For further information please contact Margaret or visit the website Tel: Margaret 01462 623447 Email: mee.hitchin@ntlworld.com Web: hitchinbridgeclub.org.uk

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Contact RONNIE Tel: 01438 720 304 Mobile: 07739 922493

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January’s Puzzle Solutions and Winners Last Month’s Crossword Winner Mrs D Roberts from St Neots Henlow Building Supplies Competition Winner Rob Lumkin from Shillington Easy

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41

The Villager Prize Crossword

Prize

ÂŁ25

Across 1. Chewing (6) 4. Acquiesced (6) 9. Garbage (7) 10. Religious images (5) 11. Points on a saw (5) 12. Rising (7) 13. Impersonations (11) 18. Evolve, mature (7) 20. First-rate (5) 22. Arm joint (5) 23. To carry out, to perform (7) 24. Robin red-_____ (6) 25. Modifies for purpose (6)

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

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

Down 1. Explodes, pops (6) 2. Item of furniture (5) 3. Not that or this (7) 5. Sorrow, sadness (5) 6. Wearing away (7) 7. Blueprint (6) 8. Deep thinker (11) 14. Mobile, transportable (7) 15. Alternatively (7) 16. Word describing an action (6) 17. Crawls, inches (6) 19. Grassy gardens (5) 21. Rotund (5)

Name: Tel:



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43

Local News Reach Out North Herts and Stevenage is a new project aiming to help patients recently discharged from hospital, who may need extra help Do you have some spare time to help someone recently discharged from hospital? You could be the person who makes a difference to someone who is struggling!

National data shows that the number of hospital readmissions amongst older people is increasing.

A survey conducted by the Royal Voluntary Service found that 46% of people aged 75 and over, who had been in hospital at some point in the last five years, were now living alone. Whilst many people are happy to return home after discharge, many also feel anxious and frightened.

This is where Reach Out comes in. The project is seeking local people who are willing to give a bit of time to someone recently home from hospital.

The project allows people to volunteer flexibly, to fit in with their other commitments.

The kinds of tasks that volunteers may take on include shopping, helping with paperwork and household jobs. Even just having a cup of tea and a chat is enough.

Slots can be as flexible as they need to be. As long

as you can commit to a couple of hours a week, it can really make someone’s day.

Vicky Hudson, Project Manager of the Reach Out project, says: ‘The transition between leaving hospital and feeling fully recovered can last several months. Very quickly, a previously independent person may become lonely and isolated and may have lost confidence in getting out and about in the local community. This is a time when Reach Out North Herts and Stevenage will make a real difference to people’s lives as local volunteers will be able to provide practical and emotional support and encouragement to a person during their period of recovery.’

To register interest, head over to our website www.reachout-project.org.uk. You will be directed to a platform called Ami, which will allow you register your interest. The Reach Out team will then be in touch to take you through next steps.

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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

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

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

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Locksmith Services

From just ÂŁ35.00 per month plus VAT

Call Nigel on 01767 261122 for more information

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

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QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS

Do You Dream Of A New Kitchen?

EST. kit U ch K’s 1999 en l fac ead eli ing ft ex pe rt!

®

Before

Why replace when you can reface?

• Large choice of made to measure doors, worktops & appliances

9.7 / 10 for customer satisfaction on Checkatrade.

Dream Doors East Herts won the Checkatrade Franchise of the Year Award 2017.

Like us on Facebook to follow the latest kitchen trends; facebook.com/DreamDoorsEastHerts

• Less time, money and hassle than a full kitchen re-fit

Call our friendly staff for a free estimate:

• Installed in a matter of days by local skilled tradesmen

dreamdoors.co.uk

• The whole process managed from design to completion

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