Great Ashby Jan 2020

VILLAGER The

January 2020

and Town

Life

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

In this issue Shop Local in 2020

Win tickets to see

Josie Long Win £25

in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People Every Month in the Stevenage Area

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Inside this issue...

RSPCA Hertfordshire East News................................................28

East Anglian Air Ambulance

22

New Year’s Resolutions. What’s Yours?......................................30 Shop Local in 2020...................................................................33 Puzzle Page..............................................................................36 What’s On.................................................................................38 Villager Prize Crossword............................................ 42 Book Review............................................................................45 Classifieds................................................................................46 Useful Numbers.......................................................................47

BMAS - Safe, Easy-Access Bathrooms

owroom

ty Specialist A Taste of Mexico........................................................................8 The History of Dentistry.............................................................4

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Win Tickets to see Josie Long..................................... 12

Style and Colour at your Wedding - Q&A..................................15 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe...................................................16 Charleston................................................................................18 East Anglian Air Ambulance.....................................................22 Choose BMAS for Safe, High-Quality Easy-Access Bathrooms...24 High-Rise Edibles.....................................................................27

Get your business off to a flying start this year

Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £30.00 +VAT per month

Choose BMAS for safe,

Editorial Catherine Rose, Trevor Langley, Solange Hando, Nick Coffer, Solange Hando, Pippa Greenwood, Tracey Anderson, Anne McCarthy and Kate Duggan.

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

easy-access bat

Publishers Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 261122 Email: to nigel@villagermag.com struggling get in or out of the bath or www.villagermag.com shower? You may even be worried abou

Are you into the you orDisclaimer a loved- Allone are adverts and experiencing editorial are printed in bathing good faith, diffi speakhowever, with Villager a specialist making any adapta Publicationsbefore Ltd can not take any responsibility for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the

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No partthe of this publication may be reproduced a free in-hom Design and Artwork When using Bathing Mobility Advisoryor stored without the are express of the publisher.

Design 9 • Tel 07762 969460 • www.design9marketing.co.uk Service, you really in permission expert hands.

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bathroom To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please callsome 01767 261122 companies, we specialise in mobility bathing and are passionate about

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History

The History of Dentistry Although most of us hate visiting the dentist, twenty-first century dental practices are a walk in the park compared to what our ancestors endured.

Common perception is that our ancestors must have suffered from terrible teeth. In fact, the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans probably had better teeth than we do today due to the lack of refined sugar in their diet.

Like us, they cleaned their teeth with abrasive and breath-sweetening concoctions. Made from eggshells, soot, bones, pumice, myrrh or mint, they were usually applied with a cloth or the fingers.

The ancient Chinese had invented toothbrushes using pigs’ bristles but although toothpicks and even dental floss were around, they weren’t in common use in Europe until 1780, when William Addis manufactured the first toothbrush.

Toothache has long been a human scourge and there have been many outlandish remedies.

Scribonius Largus, (his real name, not a Monty Python invention!) was physician to the Roman Emperor Claudius. To treat toothache, he would fumigate the mouth with smoke produced by burning henbane seeds followed by an oral rinse with hot water. This was supposed to evict the

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tiny ‘tooth worms’ that for hundreds of years were believed to be the cause of cavities and toothache.

False teeth were also around in ancient times, usually made of animal bone, ivory or wood.

The Etruscans, a pre-Roman civilization, were apparently particularly skilled at dentures using ox bone fixed in place by gold wire.

Traditionally, physicians would treat tooth problems but the medieval era saw the arrival of specialist ‘tooth drawers’, the best being retained by royalty (King Henry VIII was said to have one).

Travelling fairs and markets often featured a tooth drawer, usually identified by jester’s clothing and a string of teeth hanging around their neck.

Blacksmiths, jewellers and apothecaries would also pull teeth as a sideline using whatever instruments they had at their disposal.

In 1540, the Company of Barbers was merged with that of surgeons to create The United BarberSurgeons Company. Subsequently, high-street barbers were able to carry out rudimentary surgery that included dental work (hence the striped ‘blood and bandages’ barbers’ pole).

The first English book on dentistry was The Operator for the Teeth by Charles Allen, published

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in 1685. ‘Operators for the teeth’ were in fact the earliest dentists, as they were not only skilled enough to extract teeth but could also replace them with dentures or false teeth made from materials like gold, silver and ivory (from walrus, elephant or hippo). But by far the best material for false teeth was other human teeth!

Consequently a market quickly sprang up where teeth were either robbed from corpses or bought by extraction from the mouths of the destitute (as in when young Fantine sells her teeth in Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables).

Allen also invented a recipe for whitening toothpaste made from powdered coral, rose water and a tree resin called ‘dragon’s blood’.

During the seventeenth century, French physician and dental pioneer Pierre Fauchard was one of the first practitioners to explain how sugar in the mouth forms acids that decay enamel and cause cavities. He also wrote about methods to straighten teeth using orthodontics in his book The Surgeon Dentist, published in 1728. Alongside other French dentists, Fauchard used dental fillings made from mercury heated together with other metals. This was later refined by an English dentist named Bell to produce amalgam.

The earliest dentistry lectures were by James Rae in 1764 at The Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh. By the nineteenth century, dentistry had become a recognised apprenticeship, so in 1858 The Dental Hospital and National Dental Hospital Schools opened in London.

There were still many rogue dentists around so in the 1870s the newly founded Dental Reform Committee decreed that practicing dentists had

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to complete a License in Dental Surgery in order to be officially registered. Unfortunately, the licence was only open to men so Lilian Murray, the first official female dentist in the UK, managed to qualify in Scotland where the barrier didn’t exist.

Many dental innovations were made during the Victorian era. By 1840 it was possible to have ether as a general anaesthetic and four years later nitrous oxide or laughing gas was introduced, whereas previous painkillers had been whisky or cocaine.

The invention of the foot-operated dental drill made filling teeth much easier, although with its slow cord-driven, skull-shaking vibrations, one can only imagine how unpleasant it still was. Following in the footsteps of an American company, in 1896 Colgate mass-produced the first commercially available toothpaste in a collapsible tube in the UK. Despite this, tooth health among the general population was far from ideal. In 1942 the Beveridge Report highlighted the need for regular dental check-ups for everyone, and in 1948 the formation of the NHS gave people free access to dental treatment for the first time. So many opted for dentures that the NHS was forced to charge for them from 1951.

These days, dentures have largely been replaced by dental implants, many children now have braces to straighten their teeth and most of us have a healthy smile. But who knows? Our descendants may look back at dentistry today and consider it as crude as a blacksmith yanking out a rotten molar.

By Catherine Rose

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Food and Drink

A Taste of... Mexico Mexican cuisine can be traced back several thousand years. Over the different regions, beef, pork and chicken, plus seafood, are extremely popular and some of the same dishes are often found throughout Mexico. Mexican foods offer ingredients of beans and corn, plus chilli peppers. These are regularly presented with meats, rice and spice. Red snapper, sea bass and prawns are very popular, too.

Coal Drops Yard, King’s Cross, London, is a redeveloped retail area. During the 19th Century this site was London’s coal store and has a very interesting history. www.coaldropsyard.com Today, this area provides popular shopping and dining experiences, that include independent shops, businesses, bars and restaurants.

Casa Pastor and Plaza Pastor offer a warm welcome from Alejo and authentic Mexican dining, with dishes that include Tuna Tostadas, plus Tacos filled with marinated pork shoulder or fish, for example and their hugely-popular Ceviches. Starters include various Botanas, then on to Tostadas, that have Cochinita, Chicken Tinga and Tuna presentations. Very flavoursome Tortas (Mexican toasted sandwiches) are available, also. For Tacos the key is the salsa. Made fresh, in-house, these have Morita (Chipotle, tomatillos), Verde Fresca (Serrano chillies, tomatillos, coriander), plus Mexicana and Maya choices and more, through to El Diablo, which is made with some of the very hottest chillies known.

Tacos offer Baja Fish (Corona-battered sea bass, shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, coriander) and Choripapa (Chorizo, potato, salsa verde, coriander), which are very popular, amongst an excellent array, with mushroom, prawn and chicken inclusions, plus Al Pastor (Mexico City favourite and inspiration for this restaurant’s name). From the Mexican-style rotisserie, half and whole chickens are often selected, with different marinades and accompaniments. Exceptional, complementing flavours and splendid presentation definitely warrant ‘Compliments to Chef!’ If sharing plates are favoured, then Hake, Short Rib, Steak and more, will most certainly impress and satisfy.

Dessert selections include creations of Fresh Pineapple, Corn Cake and Queso Fresco Cheesecake. Desserts pair wonderfully with cocktails and digestivos, too. Thank you to Lily and Maureen, for excellent service throughout. Popular with locals (always a good sign), a recommended restaurant to return to.

Casa Pastor and Plaza Pastor Coal Drops Yard, King’s Cross, London N1C 4DQ Tel: 44 (0) 20 7018 3335 Email: info@tacoselpastor.co.uk www.tacoselpastor.co.uk

As always, Enjoy!

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ey Trevor Langl

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Photo: GILES SMITH

WIN a PAIR of TICKETS to see JOSIE LONG at the JUNCTION, Cambridge on 17th JANUARY 2020 Three-time Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Josie Long is finally back on the road with a brand-new show about the mind-bending intensity of new motherhood, but it is also about kindness, gentleness and joy.

A cult-optimist herself, Josie wants her audiences to feel optimistic about the future, although in this current day and age, that’s a big ask. But at the very least there will be some silly voices. Of course, its Josie Long: society’s biggest issues that we’re facing today, from climate change to Boris Johnson, cannot be ignored, but Tender’s main focus is about bringing new life into this ever-changing world.

Having started performing comedy at just 14, Josie went on to win the BBC New Comedy Award, Chortle Best Newcomer, Best Newcomer at the 2006 Edinburgh Comedy Awards and then was nominated for Best Show at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards three years running. She has since sold out West End runs, performed at the most prestigious comedy festivals in the world, written five solo tours and sold out shows in LA and New York.

On screen, Josie has been seen on 8 Out of 10 Cats (Channel 4), Never Mind the Buzzcocks (BBC2), You Have Been Watching (Channel 4) and Skins (Channel 4), for which she also wrote. She has presented on BBC 6Music, was nominated for a Radio Academy Award for her adventurous short documentaries Short Cuts on Radio 4 and earned a BAFTA Scotland New Talent Award nomination for her two short feature films, Let’s Go Swimming and Romance and Adventure and her recent feature film, Super November, was nominated for a BIFA Discovery Award.

We have a pair of tickets to give away for Josie’s Cambridge Junction tour date on Friday 17th January.

All you have to do is send in the answer to the below question!

JOSIE LONG COMPETITION ENTRY

How many times has Josie been nominated for the Edinburgh Comedy Award?



For a chance to win tickets simply answer the question and complete the form below and send to: Josie Long Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP. Deadline: 14th January 2020

Name: Tel: Email: Address:

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For full terms and conditions please go to www.villagermag.com

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House of Colour

Style & Colour at your Wedding

Q&A

Q. How do I know what shade of white to choose for my wedding dress?

A: Prior to dress shopping, if you can see a colour stylist to establish which colours naturally complements your individual skin tone to make you look radiant and your eyes shine brightly on your big day. For example Winter palettes can wear pure white or silvery finish dresses whilst summers suit soft white and delicate powder pinks. Springs look best in creams or perhaps a dove grey, and Autumns suit oyster or a light sage perhaps. It makes wedding dress searching quicker and even more pleasurable to know exactly what suits you before you even go start wedding dress shopping.

Q. My partner feels stuffy in a suit, what are the wedding attire alternatives for him whilst still ensuring he looks smart?

A: There are lots of great alternatives for men, both contemporary and traditional. If you are getting married in warmer climes, perhaps he can work a linen shirt and chinos for the beach? Colourful, patterned pocket squares add interest as do unique button holes for more formal looks.

Some people ditch the jacket altogether and wear a waistcoat or braces for a fun twist. The key is to for the clothes to fit well and suit his body architecture and for it to be the right style to suit his personality. A great fit means the right sleeve, jacket length, button arrangement, shirt and trousers, but the texture and material are both key too.

Q. I want to look gorgeous for my partner when we are on honeymoon, what are your top tips?

A: Your partner will already think you gorgeous, but it is lovely to feel confident and chic on honeymoon to keep the wedding dream going!

Be organised and pair several gorgeous tops, skirts, trousers, shorts, swimwear and scarves in your wow colours and seasonal neutrals so you can mix and match to create a number of outfits. Don’t forget to pack some great jewellery to lift any look. It is fun to get a new dress for a romantic dinner on your honeymoon to grab your partner’s attention and don’t forget to choose some gorgeous, well-fitting lingerie!

Q. What quick tips do you have for bringing colour to the wedding venue?

A: Choose accent colours for your flowers, beautiful satin sashes on the wedding chairs and other decorations but everything doesn’t need to completely match. Choose maybe three colours that complement each other from your own season palette or have a range of similar tones so that there is coordination, but still some individuality. Use wedding menu ribbons, table decorations, wedding favours, flower centre pieces and napkins to add a pop of colour. Of course your own beautiful bouquet can have a stunning colourful impact.

Q. I am doing my own wedding make up, what are your top tips?

A. Make sure you choose cool make up colours if you are cool toned and warm make up colours if you are warm toned. Wear waterproof eye makeup and a good primer to ensure your make up stays on for most of the day. Add translucent powder in your perfect shade for extra staying power. Consider an illuminator on exposed shoulders, collar bones and cheekbones to bring a subtle but beautiful sheen. Always have access to top-up make up for a tidy up or after happy tears on the day.

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

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Food & Drink

Portuguese Custard Tarts It’s been said over and again, food takes us back to a place, back to a memory, back to a moment in time.

Whenever I smell fresh biscuits baking, I’m right back to my grandma’s kitchen. Whenever I smell a fresh baguette, it takes me back to my time living in France and that unmistakable early morning aroma which fills the villages and towns (often mixed in with the smell of strong coffee too!). So often on my Weekend Kitchen radio show, I am taken back to happy places by the food which my guests make. One such happy place is Portugal, and the Algarve in particular, where I have spent days and days enjoying the perfect weather, wonderful hospitality and amazing fresh food. And nothing personifies Portugal better than their traditional custard tart - moreish, light, and with the signature dark brown top crust, they will brighten any dark day. They’re also surprisingly easy to make - as shown in this brilliant recipe by Victoria Chidgey. She’s a highly talented young cake maker and baker, with her own thriving business called The Tring Cake Company. These tarts will put a smile on your face.

Ingredients 1 block of puff pastry Icing sugar for dusting 6 egg yolks 185g caster sugar 50g cornflour 600ml whole milk 10g vanilla extract 1. In a pan, bring together the yolks, sugar, cornflour and vanilla. Slowly stir in the milk.

2. Put the pan onto a moderate heat and stir continuously until big bubbles appear in the middle.

3. Take off the heat, pour the mix into a bowl and cover with clingfilm.

4. Put this bowl in the fridge to chill while you roll your pastry.

5. Roll out the puff pastry using the icing sugar to dust the surface and rolling pin.

6. Cut the pastry in half and place one half of the pastry on top of the other.

7. Roll the pastry again until 5mm thick.

8. Roll the pastry into a tight sausage and cut into 16 discs.

9. Push the pastry into each hole of a cupcake tray, applying pressure around the sides so that they are evenly covered, all the way to the top edge.

10. Dust with icing sugar.

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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Once we’ve arranged a free, no obligation visit to your home - at a time that’s convenient for you we will measure up your kitchen.

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Travel

Charleston

By Solange Hando

Down in South Carolina, on the edge of the Low Country, the pretty town of Charleston sits among creeks and waterways at the confluence of three rivers as they join the Atlantic Ocean. Spreading across islands and peninsula it is full of history and charm, an ‘American treasure’ founded in 1670 and named after Charles II of England.

Beyond the tree-lined avenues on the peninsula, the Old Town is a delightful network of cobbled lanes and alleyways festooned in traditional buildings, some with weather-boarded façades, all gleaming white, others draped in pastel colours: mint-green, ocean-blue, pink, yellow and more.

There are wooden shutters and wrought iron gates, quaint cottages and stylish mansions with colonnaded balconies and fabulous gardens, oleander, magnolia and roses blooming among water features and trees such as the flowering crepe myrtle and palmetto, the local emblem. During the Festival of Houses and Gardens held in early spring some of these private wonders are open to visitors, but at any time of year you can ride a horse-drawn carriage in this most beautiful area. It feels almost like a village, nothing disturbing the peace but the distant chiming of church bells.

Meanwhile back in the bustling town, King Street beckons with a wide range of architectural styles and antique and designer boutiques, parallel to Meeting Street where the city’s vibrant market dates back to the 1790s. From the Great Hall to the open air sheds, it’s a vast colourful complex selling anything you ever wanted, including handmade souvenirs such as southern jewellery and sweetgrass baskets produced by the Gullahs,

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descendants of the African slaves. To learn all about this troublesome though successful era, visit Middleton Place, a former plantation-cummuseum proud of its restored buildings, gardens and lakes.

Slavery, independence, civil war and modern times, Charleston’s harbour played a major role in the country’s history, remembered in the Patriots’ Point Naval Museum on Mount Pleasant and in the sea forts of Sumter and Moultrie. Charleston’s most scenic promenade is in fact the Battery, the fortified sea wall leading to the peninsula’s southernmost tip, named White Point after the bleached oyster shells which covered it long ago.

There are also great harbour views from the pier and the waterfront park where a sparkling ‘Pineapple Fountain’ symbolises hospitality, recalling the fruit displayed by travellers to signal their return. It’s a cool place to relax, watching brown pelicans diving for food and all sorts of crafts, from tall ships and cruisers to sailing yachts, fishing vessels, power boats and more. Crossing the river Cooper just upstream, the Ravenel bridge dazzles you with lofty towers and fan-shaped cables, while beyond the harbour the Atlantic coast is strung with lovely beaches and islands.

Nearest to town are Folly Beach and Sullivans Island, praised for its window boxes and flower gardens, and the Isle of Palms boasting a marina, protected sea oats and wild dunes resort.

Lots to do, lots to see but if time is short, cruising around the harbour is a must, especially at sunset when water and sky are ablaze with amazing colour.

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We’re passionate about

fulfilling residents’

lives

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

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

Fulfilling lives

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Local News

East Anglian Air Ambulance East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) is an incredible community-funded service in Cambridgeshire and here at The Villager, we are proud to announce that we have chosen to support this lifesaving charity as our charity of the year in 2020.

We will be bringing you regular features to learn more about the team at EAAA and all the amazing work they do, as well all the different ways that you can get involved and support the air ambulance.

You may not be aware, but over the last year (2018 / 2019), between its two bases and two helicopters (Norwich and Cambridge) the East Anglian Air Ambulance was tasked 1,798 times by helicopter, 1,023 times by rapid response vehicle and attended 1,664 patients in total.

Of these patients there were 480 cardiac arrests, 355 road traffic collisions, 256 accidental injuries, 340 medical emergencies, 73 intentional self-harm incidents, 70 sporting incidents and 54 assault patients in the region. On top of this, the charity is striving ahead to become the first air ambulance in the East of England to fly 24/7.

EAAA is already incredibly well equipped to fly in the hours of darkness, landing at unlit sites, however they currently only fly until 1:30am in the morning, coming back online by helicopter at 7am. This means there is a five and a half hour gap in the region where there is no helicopter coverage if needed. EAAA Strongly believe the time of day should not dictate the type of emergency medical care available to you, and are passionate about raising an additional £1 million a year in order to fund the extra flying hours to

Barbara McGee Fundraising Manager

provide a 24/7 helicopter emergency medical service.

Barbara McGee, Fundraising Manager for Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire, said: “The level of care our medical teams provide is absolutely outstanding and with the helicopter they can reach anywhere in East Anglia in 25 mins, taking the hospital to the patient and getting that patient the care they need as quickly as possible.

“We’re passionate about being able to provide this service, by helicopter, 24 hours a day and estimate that by doing so we could help hundreds more patients each year, which would be amazing. But we can only do this by raising more money, so we’re incredibly grateful to all of the support we get from the community – and to Charity of the Year partnerships such as this one – which help us to be there for our patients. So please come to one of our events, play our lottery, play our raffle, volunteer for us - anything at all that you can do to help us will make a huge difference to our work.”

Find out more at www.eaaa.org.uk/get-invovled

Sunrise at Cambridge Airport with Anglia Two, taken by Critical Care Paramedic Liam Sagi on a day shift in December

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Choose BMAS for safe, high-quality

easy-access bathrooms Are you struggling to get in or out of the bath or to manage the step up into the shower? You may even be worried about slipping or falling. If you or a loved one are experiencing bathing difficulties, it makes sense to speak with a specialist before making any adaptations to your bathroom.

Trust the mobility bathing experts

When using the Bathing Mobility Advisory Service, you really are in expert hands. Unlike some bathroom companies, we specialise in mobility bathing and are passionate about helping people bathe safely in their own home.

With over a decade of experience, BMAS have installed hundreds of wet rooms, walk-in showers and walk-in baths. Built on family values, we put you at the heart of everything we do and pride ourselves on the personal service we offer.

We take care of everything from design to completion

We manage every aspect related to creating your perfect bathroom. We start by listening to you and finding out about your needs

whilst assessing your current facilities during a free in-home visit.

We don’t believe in hard sell and our advice is provided without any obligation.

Your bathroom will be meticulously designed and our products are of the highest quality.

All work is completed on time by our own tradespeople who will respect you and your home.

Introducing our Hitchin showroom View the quality of our products and workmanship for yourself in our brand new showroom.You can also receive free advice from our experts. We look forward to welcoming you.

67 Hermitage Road, Hitchin 01462 889 097

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N O T YO U R AV E R A G E H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T C O M PA N Y

RESINBOUND DRIVEWAYS

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0800 046 1080 hello@thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk www.thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk 26

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Gardening

High-Rise Edibles

By Pippa Greenwood Use high-rise gardening to give extra space, with hanging baskets, wall troughs and window boxes as homes for vegetables, herbs and even fruit. So, what does it take to succeed?

Larger containers allow for more room for your crops’ roots and easier maintenance, as they will run out of moisture and fertiliser less frequently.

Use suitable supporting brackets and screws for hanging baskets, window boxes and wall troughs, as they must support the weight of fully grown plants laden with crops, which will be heavier after watering. Check walls, balconies and windows sills will not be overloaded and consider using lighterweight loam-free or peat-free composts with lightweight containers made of bamboo, plastics or fibre glass.

You’ll need to use good quality compost and feed crops in high-rise planters regularly and, as they’re more susceptible to drying out, regular watering is essential.

The dwarf runner bean ‘Hestia’ is perfect for containers and can be sown directly into the compost in April, or raised in small pots or trays and then planted out into the high-rise planter.

Dwarf French varieties such as ‘Duel’ or the purplepodded ‘Purple Tee Pee’ do well in a good sized window box Wall baskets, troughs and hanging baskets can play host to strawberries, which trail naturally over container edges. Plants can be bought from garden centres or by mail order at this time of year.

There’s a huge selection of lettuce and other salad leaves available in a wide range of colours and leaf shapes. Fast-germinating and fast-growing, you can either buy small plants or sow the seed

directly into the compost.

Creeping or trailing forms of herbs are a must for a basket, trough or window box, and thyme in particular is ideal for a container in a sunny spot.

As it’s hardy it can be planted out at any time of year. Parsley, sage, tarragon, chives and basil all look good in wall baskets or window boxes and thrive in a sunny spot.

Most oriental vegetables, such as the pak choi varieties ‘Red Choi’ and Mizuna (including the purple-veined ‘Mizuna Purple’) do well in a sheltered window box or wall trough. The two look stunning combined together, with the Mizuna positioned to ‘flop’ attractively over container edges. For a red and spicy theme use ‘Mustard Red Giant’.

There are several varieties of tomatoes well-suited to containers such as hanging baskets, including the classic ‘Tumbling Tom’, available in both red and yellow varieties, and the red-fruited ‘Tumbler’.

Raise them from seed sown now or buy plants to put into containers in late April or May. If you like tiny fruited tomatoes, consider ‘Hundreds and Thousands’.

Chilli pepper plants such as ‘Super Chilli’ packed in a window box or wall trough will look stunning when covered in their glossy fruits. Chillies are tender so buy plants in May or June or sow seeds now.

At Pippa’s website (www.pippagreenwood.com) you’ll find natural pest controls, stylish cloches, practical and pretty plant supports, the fantastic SpeedHoe, tools, planters, raised bed kits and the ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa’ system. Or book Pippa for a talk at your gardening club.

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27

Pets

RSPCA Hertfordshire East News

Happy New Year to all our readers and animal lovers.

We really need your help. This time of year is always busy and our charity shop is short of volunteers. No experience required, any necessary training will be given; it’s easy and exceedingly rewarding, knowing you are making a big difference to the vulnerable animals in our care throughout the year, not just at Christmas. Work upstairs in our stock room or downstairs on the shop floor. Talk to our friendly team, Bonnie or Maria, on 01462 433369, or visit the shop at 19 Churchyard, Hitchin SG5 1HP. We would love to hear from you.

Not a lot of people know this, but cats prefer their water bowls separate from their food bowls, ideally in a different room. Some cats will not drink water if it is next to their food bowls because the water may smell like their food. Wild cats never drink water that is contaminated. Check if your cat is drinking enough water by pulling the fold of skin at the back of his neck. If it returns immediately your cat is hydrated, but if it stays bunched your cat needs more water. Also, do not put ice cubes in their water bowls in summer, however good the intention.

If you have any unwanted Christmas gifts, please consider donating them to our charity shop, so that the proceeds can be used towards the animals in our care. We are a self-funding branch and our only financial support comes from the generous general public.

Check out our top ten cat facts. No two cats are the same, but insight into their biology and behaviour can help you understand your pet better.

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1. Cats have highly developed senses. They can detect higher frequencies of sound than dogs or humans, have a highly developed sense of smell, can see better in the dark, and their whiskers are highly sensitive to vibrations.

2. Cats hunt alone in the wild spending 6-8 hours a day hunting.

3. Cats are agile, powerful, with tightly controlled muscles and fast reflexes.

4. Cats use a range of methods to communicate: meows, trills, chirrups, growls, yowls and hisses, and visually using different body postures.

5. Cats are territorial, leaving visual markers such as scratch marks, spraying urine and deposition of faeces to protect their territory.

6. Cats are independent, self reliant for food, shelter, grooming and territory defence.

7. Cats are meat eaters and cannot survive without nutrients found in animal-derived materials.

8. Cats love naps and domestic cats sleep for 12-18 hours a day.

9. Cats are playful, needing both mental and physical stimulation which encourages social behaviour.

10. Cats are clean animals. Tiny abrasive hooks found on their tongues help them to groom, keeping their coats in good condition, removing fleas and parasites.

In the event of an emergency or cruelty, please call 0300 1234 999 Branch Office: 01462 672278 Why not follow us on Facebook:www.facebook.com/hertfordshireeastbranch or on our website:www.rspca-hertfordshireeast.org.uk

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N O T YO U R AV E R A G E H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T C O M PA N Y

WALL COATING

ALL REPAIRS UNDERTAKEN BREATHABLE COATINGS WEATHER PROOF SMOOTH OR TEXTURED SELF CLEANING PROTECTS YOUR WALLS CLEAN & TIDY INSTALLATION SUITABLE FOR MASONRY OR RENDER • COLOUR MATCH AVAILABLE • 10 YEAR GUARANTEE • • • • • • • •

Before After

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Time of Year

New Year’s Resolutions What’s Yours?

By Tracey Anderson

A New Year’s resolution is a promise for the new year.

Regardless of what resolution you commit to, the goal generally is to improve life in the coming year.

Resolutions can come in many forms. Some people make a promise to change a bad habit, such as quitting smoking or eating less junk food. Other people make a promise to develop a positive habit, such as starting an exercise program, volunteering in their community, or recycling more.

The tradition of New Year’s resolutions dates all the way back to 153 B.C. January is named after Janus, a mythical god of early Rome.

Janus had two faces — one looking forward, one looking backward. This allowed him to look back on the past and forward toward the future.

On December 31, the Romans imagined Janus looking backward into the old year and forward into the new year. This became a symbolic time for Romans to make resolutions for the new year and forgive enemies for troubles in the past.

The Romans also believed Janus could forgive them for their wrongdoings in the previous year. They would give gifts and make promises, believing Janus would see this and bless them in the year ahead.

And thus, the New Year’s resolution was born!

What is your promise for 2020?

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SHIRON

Domestic Appliances Repairs of

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

Contact RONNIE Tel: 01438 720 304 Mobile: 07396 579717

Email: rohintoncooper@hotmail.com

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Shopping

By Anne McCarthy

Shop Local

in 2020 Why? Personalized Service - A small business owner will go the extra mile to make you happy. Local businesses are owned by your neighbours and friends. They care about you and are invested in your community.

Unique Products - A national chain will sell hundreds or thousands of identikit products.

Local stores sell unique merchandise in smaller numbers so you will buy something truly individual.

It supports the arts - Small local businesses support creativity! Look for art on display created by local artists. These are one-of-akind pieces you won’t find anywhere else.

It helps the local economy - The money you spend in a local business stays within your town and community, thus improving its future.

How? Instead of purchasing items from national chains, try to purchase things from a business local to your area.

Buy a gift or a gift card at a local business in your area and give to a friend, family member, or co-worker. This will introduce the company to someone new and allow for the “shop local” mantra to spread.

Promote their business! If you like a particular shop or independent restaurant share and like their social media accounts. Spread the word.

Give them a great review. Send them a thank you. Say why you love them and let them share your testimonial.

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Visit our beautiful

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

01438 725309

bathrooms@stevenageplumbing.co.uk www.stevenageplumbing.co.uk

Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS 34

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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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ROGERSONS

REMOVALS

Man with Van

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Speak to Matt • No job too big or small

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n O s ’ t Wha In January

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

2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 January 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 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 January 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

2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 January 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 always welcome.

Tel: 01438 231550.

Email: welcome@stevenage.plus Web: www.stevenageplus.co.uk 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 January Sapphire Social Club 8.30pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin A small and friendly group for single people generally aged 50 and above, offering 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 with no joining fee for the first two months.

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

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3 January RSPB Hitchin & Letchworth Local Group 7.30pm ‘The Settlement’, Nevells Road, Letchworth Garden City Local group members free, Visitors £3 ‘My journey in wildlife photography’ by Ben Andrew.

Ben is an amateur wildlife photographer and RSPB staff member (he runs the RSPB’s photographic library). He details his journey into photography, successes and failures and how he has developed specific photo projects to tell stories through imagery. Tel: 01763 249459 Email: martinrjspc@hotmail.com

6, 13, 20 & 27 January 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. Meets every Monday apart from bank holidays and some school holiday dates.

Tel. 01462 624144 or 01462 680995 Web: www.staplers.org.uk

3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 January Springfield House Friday Bridge Club 1.30pm Springfield House (the home of the Old Stevenage Community Centre) To play cut-in Chicago Bridge. Play is informal and friendly. Tel: Richard Bean 01438 221517

6, 13, 20 & 27 January 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, meals, parties, Sunday walks, theatre and concert visits, day and weekend trips and holidays.

Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 Web: www.branch-out.org.uk

5, 12, 19 & 26 January Hare & Hounds Hash House Harriers 11am H5 are a social running and walking club for mixed abilities, meeting every week in the Bedfordshire area. The trail is set by our hare from a local pub and typically lasts 1 hour covering between 3 and 4 miles. Family and dog friendly. Full details of the trails can be found online or via email.

Email: info@h5hashers.org.uk Web: www.H5hashers.org.uk 6, 13, 20 & 27 January Stevenage New Pathways 1-4pm Friends Meeting House Cuttys Lane, Stevenage £2 inc. hot drink & biscuits A friendly place to meet and talk over issues in a positive way. Maybe go for walks, bring in speakers, form a craft group.

Email: katiewilsonmind@gmail.com 6, 13, 20 & 27 January Stevenage Choral Society 7.45-9.45pm Stevenage Music Centre, Nobel School, Stevenage The society meets every Monday during term time.

Free the friendly choir with a free session. No audition necessary. Meet like-minded people of all ages and abilities. Try out a wide range of music, from the classics to show songs and be part of a friendly and supportive team, putting on excellent performances whilst having fun.

Tel: 01438 365769 Email: info@stevenagechoral.org.uk Web: www.stevenagechoral.org.uk

8 January North Herts Association of National Trust 7.30pm Christchurch, Bedford Road, Hitchin Visitors £2 ‘The Arts & Crafts Movement in North Hertfordshire’

by Ros Allwood, Cultural Services Manager at North Herts Museum. Visitors welcome. Membership of National Trust not necessary. Second hand books and homemade preserves on sale.

Tel: Secretary Mrs Colette House 01462 815585 Email: colettehouse@gmail.com 9, 16, 23 & 30 January Roundabouters Country Dance Club 8-10pm Friends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage £3, annual membership £5 Friendly club for English country dancing – enjoyable, easy to learn and very sociable. We welcome new members, both beginners and experienced, couples and individuals. All dances walked through; club and guest callers ensure a varied programme.

Tel: 01438 727239 Email: roundabouters@live.co.uk Web: www.roundabouters.org.uk

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n O s ’ t Wha In January

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

What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.com

14 & 28 January 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 15 January Hitchin Flower Club 7pm for 7.30pm Church House, Church Yard, Hitchin Facebook: Hitchin Flower Club-NAFAS 19 January RSPB Hitchin & Letchworth Local Group Trip Coach Trip to RSPB Lakenheath Fen. This excellent reserve in Suffolk, with huge reed beds, river and woodland, is good for wintering birds. Pick-ups Hitchin 8.00am, Letchworth 8.15am and Royston 8.35am. Leader: Malcolm Ingram.

Tel: 01763 249459 Email: martinrjspc@hotmail.com 19 January Stevenage RSPB Local Group car trip to Rainham Marshes 10am Get the new year off with a bang with an all-day car trip to this superb reserve close to the Dartford Crossing (but this side). Meet in the car park at 10am. Leader Graham Beevor Grid Ref 177/TQ 551790. Postcode RM19 1SZ. RSPB card required.

Tel: 01438 226014.

Web: ww2.rspb.org.uk/groups/stevenage

21 January Stevenage RSPB Local Group 7.30pm The Friends Meeting House, Cutty’s Lane, Stevenage RSPB Members £3, Non-members £4, Under 18s 50p ‘Farming, Birds and the Countryside’ with Alice Groom, Senior Policy Officer in the Land Use team of the RSPB. Tel: 01438 226014 Web: www.rspb.org/groups/Stevenage 25 January Join the Dots Forest School Great Wymondley Village, near Hitchin For children 2+ years, with additional dates in school holidays. Come and join our fun filled sessions involving games, den building, flora and fauna identification and much more. 2-5 years, 10.30am-12.30pm £16, siblings £12. 6-11 years, 1.15-4pm £20, siblings £18. Everyone welcome.

Email: alison@jointhedotsforestschool.co.uk Website: www.jointhedotsforestschool.co.uk

31 January Hitchin Book Club 5pm Orange tree, Hitchin £2.50 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-Book-Club/

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

31 January, 1, 2, 7 & 8 Feb Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves 31 Jan, 7 & 8 Feb 7.30pm; 1, 2 & 8 Feb 2.30pm The Oak Hall at Meppershall Village Hall, Walnut Tree Way Adults £10, Children £7, Family (2a + 2c) £30 HATS Drama Group present Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves, a hilarious family pantomime by Ben Crocker. Doors open 30 mins before performances.

Licensed bar.

Web: www.ticketsource.co.uk/hats-drama 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/meetup-groupHVrvZZiQ 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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December’s Puzzle Solutions and Winners Last Month’s Crossword Winner Heather Urquhart from Hitchin Cambridge Gliding Competition Winner Mrs Beverley Sale-James from St Neots Christmas Quiz Competition Winner Mrs P Davies from Biggleswade

Easy

Hard

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The Villager Prize Crossword

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

16th January 2020 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

Prize

ÂŁ25

Across 1 Demand (6) 4 Swollen (5) 9 Tract of level high ground (7) 10 Examinations (5) 11 Restored to health (5) 12 Exact (7) 13 Arguing (11) 18 Sudden bursts of light (7) 20 Contest (5) 22 Strongly flavoured edible bulb (5) 23 Interconnected system (7) 24 Traffic light (5) 25 Changes to fit purpose (6) Down 1 Collision (6) 2 Step (5) 3 Slim (7) 5 Loosen (5) 6 Popular style (7) 7 Keeping down (11) 8 Pale or colourless (5) 14 Ingredient of nuclear power (7) 15 Restricted (7) 16 Happening, underway (5) 17 Trembles (6) 19 Thus (5) 21 Unit of soldiers (5)

Name: Tel:



Address:

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N O T YO U R AV E R A G E H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T C O M PA N Y

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0800 046 1080 30% OFF ORDERS PLACED IN JANUARY hello@thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk www.thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk

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

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

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Books

Book Review

By Kate Duggan A Year of Reading Aloud

by Georgina Rodgers (editor)

If you love poetry, try this collection of ‘52 poems to learn and love’, where you’ll find well-known names such as Sylvia Plath, E.E Cummings, William Blake and Maya Angelou alongside newer poets. Most of the poems are short enough to learn without too much difficulty, and they’re accompanied by a paragraph about the poet and the reason why the poem has been selected. Take up the challenge of learning one each week, or just dip in and out when you need an extra dose of beauty in your life.

Grow Cook Eat Diary 2020

by Sarah Raven

If you love gardening and cooking this could be the diary for you. Each month has a short list of what to sow, plant and harvest in your garden, along with other garden-related tasks and a simple recipe using in-season produce.

Dishes range from Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry to Beef Carpaccio with Fennel Flowers. As you’d expect, there are plenty of stunning flower photographs throughout the diary, with one image for each week.

A Year of Living Thankfully

by Lois Blyth

Can being more grateful change your life? According to this book it can, and Lois Blyth is on a mission to show you how. Each week, you’ll work through an activity to help you embrace gratitude and take pleasure in the little things.

There’s guidance on turning negative thoughts around, learning to appreciate what you have and not letting others spoil your mood.

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I D Decorating Painting & Decorating Services Painting – Interior & Exterior

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

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Do not hesitate to call Gary on:

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.

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07530 728091 Wood Suppliers

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USEFUL NUMBERS

VILLAGER The

and Town

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Alcoholics Anonymous..............................0845 769 7555 Al-Anon Family Groups..............................0800 008 6811 Anglian Water............................................08457 145 145 Bedford Hospital........................................ 01234 355122 Lister Hospital............................................ 01438 314333 Benefits for people with Disabilities...........0800 882 200 Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue................... 01438 729041 Carers Line..................................................0808 808 7777 ChildLine...........................................................0800 1111 Citizens Advice...........................................03444 111 444 Cocaine Anonymous..................................0800 689 4732

Bringing Local Business to Local People Your local full colour A5 monthly magazine delivered free of charge to 1000s of homes and businesses in your local area.

The Villager and Town Life is dedicated to promoting local businesses, charities, community groups and everything else in your local area.

Crimestoppers..............................................0800 555 111 Cruse Bereavement Care............................0333 252 9152 Floodline....................................................0845 988 1188 Frank-Drug Advisory....................................0800 776 600 National Debt Line.....................................0808 808 4000 Gas Emergency............................................0800 111 999 NHS Direct.........................................................0845 4647 National Rail Enquiries..............................03457 48 49 50 Non Emergency Police Line.........................................101 NSPCC.........................................................0808 800 5000 Relate..........................................................0845 48 49 50 RSPCA Cruelty Line....................................0300 1234 999 Samaritans............................................................116 123 Tax Credit Helpline.....................................0345 300 3900 Victim Support............................................845 30 30 900

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