Stevenage June 2022 by Villager Mag

VILLAGER The

June 2022

and Town

Life

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

Inside this issue

Choosing Garden Furniture Five Reasons to Visit Sardinia 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...

Is it Time to Try Tennis

Five reasons to visit Sardinia......................................................4 How to look after your feet........................................................8 Summer Loving........................................................................10 Brewing Today: Round Corner Brewing Company.....................12 Is it time to try tennis?.............................................................14 Get the best deal......................................................................17 All about Eczema......................................................................18 The story behind liquorice........................................................21 Wordsearch..............................................................................22 Is there such a thing as a mid life crisis?...................................25 Buying Swimwear....................................................................28 How to choose a care home.....................................................31 Choosing garden furniture.......................................................32 What do we mean by exotic plants?.........................................34

Trellis.......................................................................................38 One Fun Day is finally back!......................................................41 Outdoor Living.........................................................................42 Under Pressure.........................................................................44 Cutting Edge Technology..........................................................47 Puzzle Page..............................................................................48 What’s On in June.....................................................................50 BBQ Steak with Chimichurri Dressing.......................................52 Villager Prize Crossword...........................................................58 Summer Reads.........................................................................60 Useful Numbers.......................................................................63

How to Choose a Care Home

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Travel

Five reasons to visit Sardinia By Solange Hando

Sun-bleached beaches, glistening shores and mouthwatering food: Sardinia is a holiday destination from heaven. While the island is known for its winning sun-sea-sand combination, this Italian gem is full of surprises too. Lush mountains, hidden grottoes, Roman ruins and a cultural capital all offer some exciting alternatives to lazy days by the beach – and all just a three-hour flight away! If we’ve got you in the holiday mood, here are just five reasons why Sardinia should be on your radar when booking your next escape. 1. It’s a beach lover’s paradise Imagine swathes of powder-white sand kissed by crystal clear shores, heated by the Italian summer sun. Sounds like paradise, right? Whether you’re a family looking for shallow waters and gently sloping sands, or a couple seeking a secluded spot off the beaten track, Sardinia has a beach – or spiaggia – for everyone. With over 1,800km of pristine coastline, you’ll be spoilt for choice on where to stay. Cala Brandinchi, nicknamed ‘Little Tahiti’, is probably the island’s most famous beach. This thin arc of soft sand lapped by crystalline turquoise waters certainly lives up to its

name. Its shallow waters are perfect for swimming, while the surrounding pine trees offer plenty of shade. Families will love the soft sands and shallow waters of Chia’s Spiaggia Sa Colonia and Spiaggia Su Portu in the south of the island. Don’t forget to look out for the wild flamingos in the lagoon! Or if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, look no further than Spiaggia di Piscinas along the Costa Verde (Green Coast). This ribbon of golden sand is home to a vast expanse of dunes, rising up to 60m. 2. The food is divine Sardinia’s food is enough reason to visit alone. A wealth of local culinary traditions mixed with the island’s Mediterranean and Italian influences combine to create a delicious cuisine heavy in grilled and spitroasted meats, not to mention a mouth-watering array of breads and cheeses. You’ll find all the classic Italian favourites such as pizza and pasta on most menus, but the local specialties are well worth a try. Su Porcheddu, or roast suckling pig, is a must-try for meat-eaters while vegetarians will love Culurgiones – pasta filled with potato, pecorino cheese, garlic and mint leaves, layered with a sweet tomato sauce.

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3. It’s more than just a beach break From colourful villages and rustic towns soaked in history to ancient stone buildings dating back thousands of years, Sardinia has plenty of sights and experiences to coax you away from the sand. With a culture rich in history and tradition, there’s something new and exciting to discover around almost every corner. Walk the city walls of Alghero, explore Roman ruins in Nora or visit in the shoulder season and take a hiking trip into the island’s lush green mountains. If you’re feeling adventurous, but want to stay close to your resort, you could even throw yourself into some water sports. Sailing, windsurfing and scuba diving opportunities await! 4. It’s the land of luxury Wake up to a view of the sparkling sea, treat yourself to a spa treatment, while away your afternoon in designer boutiques before enjoying a dinner fit for a king: there’s a reason why Sardinia is so popular with the rich and famous. The Costa Smeralda region in the north is synonymous with glitz and glamour. This glistening stretch of coastline, starting in Porto Cervo and travelling around the headland to Portisco, oozes style and sophistication. Pick your favourite superyacht, treat yourself to lunch in a gourmet restaurant and people-watch from a charming pavement cafe. Oh, and keep an eye out for famous

faces! Sardinia’s beauty attracts billionaires and celebrities from all over the globe. 5. The holiday season is long Blessed with a warm Mediterranean climate from April to October, Sardinia is renowned for its ‘sixmonth summers’. The island is at its hottest in July and August, with temperatures reaching a scorching 30°C. This is the perfect time to visit if you fancy lazing around on the beach, topping up the tan and soaking up the holiday atmosphere. However, Sardinia also enjoys a balmy climate in April, May, September and October, giving you the chance to stretch out your summer for longer. The shoulder season is a great time to visit if you’re looking for a quieter escape and slightly cooler temperatures. It’s also a prime time to buckle up your walking boots and do some exploring.

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Health

How to look after your feet

Our feet are our first point of contact with the world, and yet too often we cram them into illfitting shoes and leave them until last when it comes to self-care. From athlete’s foot to ingrown toenails, there are a variety of issues that can crop up as a result of poor foot care. So, what can you do to – literally – put your best foot forward, and how can you resolve any issues should they arise? Prevention is better than cure, so the best place to start is with your choice of shoe. A good pair of shoes should support and protect your feet, and allow natural movement when walking. Look for breathable fabrics, roomy toe-boxes, cushioned soles and low heels. Although wearing high heels once in a while won’t do much harm, long-term use has been linked to ingrown toenails and even arthritis. Once you’re wearing the right shoes, keeping your feet in good condition should be fairly straightforward. Applying a moisturiser or foot cream daily will help prevent cracking, and using a pumice stone or foot file will tackle any hard skin that often appears around the heels. It’s also important to check your feet regularly for cuts, sores, redness or swelling – especially if you’re diabetic. This is because raised blood sugar levels can often lead to a reduction in blood supply to your feet, which means that cuts and sores may take a while to heal. When it comes to foot care, toenail trimming is key. The trick here is little and often. Experts recommend

trimming your nails every six to eight weeks, cutting them straight across using clean, sharp clippers. The best time is when you’re just out of the bath, but be careful not to cut them too short. Ingrown toenails are often the result of over-trimming, and besides being extremely painful, in extreme cases, may need an operation to resolve. Athlete’s foot is another common foot problem, caused by walking barefoot in communal spaces such as gyms, showers or swimming pools. This fungal infection usually starts between the toes, causes significant discomfort, itching and pain, and can even spread beyond the feet if not treated. Over-the-counter fungal creams are the best solution, but it’s also important to keep your feet clean and dry in-between treatments. Some foot ailments can be slightly more bothersome, however. Ledderhose disease is a rare condition that causes connective tissue to build up and create hard lumps on the soles of the feet. The growths aren’t cancerous but they can cause pain, especially when walking. Home remedies include wearing soft shoe inserts, stretching, massages and anti-inflammatory drugs, but doctors might also recommend surgery in more serious cases. Although chiropody becomes more important as we age, taking good care of our feet also gets harder as we lose flexibility. If you’re experiencing any aches, pains or symptoms in your feet, visit your local chiropodist who will be able to help diagnose any issues and advise next steps.

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Time of Year

Summer Loving

In praise of the romantic comedy

For me, watching a rom-com is a lot like eating a whole tub of Ben and Jerry’s. You know you shouldn’t; you’ll probably feel slightly queasy afterwards, but it feels so good in the moment. They are perfect summer watching. You do have to accept the limitations; it’s no good looking for clever subtext or the meaning of life here, and you have to be ok with cliché…actually you have to fully embrace it because cliché is the lifeblood of the rom-com. For example, most characters in rom-coms work in advertising or journalism in a big city. Occasionally a doctor or a vet is allowed to be a main character, but the chances are at least one of the leads is trying to make a deadline or win a contract. There’s the ‘will they, won’t they?’ part of the storyline, and even though we know they inevitably will, it’s important when they meet for the first time, that there’s friction, or preferably intense dislike between the leads. Usually, this revolves around a car accident, or a situation where one of them acts uncharacteristically like a jerk. There is an unwritten rule that if one of the characters is a doctor or a vet they will inevitably be a ‘country’ doctor, or a ‘country’ vet and the big city journalist or advertising executive will learn salutary life lessons from their sweet, super sensible country ways...and there’s generally a community fete or barn dance where the chemistry begins. There are always ditsy / drunk / geeky / obnoxious / sensible-but-plain / seriously hot-but slightly dim / totally dysfunctional-but-loveable <delete as applicable according to the plot> best friends or

family members. These characters are there for their comedic value and they are always endearing, even the obnoxious ones. Then there is a PROBLEM (capital letters intentional) for the couple to overcome. One of them isn’t who they say they are, or there’s a misunderstanding where one thinks the other is married / involved in fraud / a murderer. Basically, the relationship is ALWAYS entered into under false pretences by one or both parties in a rom-com. These false pretences may be real or entirely imagined but they will always cause a PROBLEM, usually exacerbated by a wellmeaning and aforementioned best friend or family member. Finally, there is a chase as one of the leads, driven to rash action by the PROBLEM, rushes off to take a new job in another country. Usually, the chase scene ends with a kiss in the rain...or a fountain... or a river. For some reason water features large in rom-com resolution scenes. Oh...and the guy nearly always apologises even if the woman was in the wrong. Because rom-com rules dictate this...possibly because women are the target audience. I know ALL this, and I still love rom-coms. Here are some great examples to discover or revisit this summer. The Wedding Planner Crazy Rich Asians 27 Dresses There’s Something About Mary My Big Fat Greek Wedding The Wedding Singer My Best Friend’s Wedding By Sarah Davey

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Food & Drink

Brewing Today: Round Corner Brewing Company

Multi award-winning Round Corner Brewing Company is located in Melton Mowbray and produces beers of unmistakable character. Indeed, their logo states, ’Uncommonly Good Beer’. The beers are inspired by, and pay respect to, the hugely popular and very much thriving agricultural town and surrounding area. Certainly, the standards of Round Corner Brewing are very high – the numerous awards they keep gaining are testament to that! Melton Mowbray, plus the surrounding area, is recognised and renowned for locally-made Stilton cheese and pork pies. The market in Melton Mowbray has a long history. Food/drink events take place each year and attract vast amounts of visitors. The Round Corner Brewing Company has more than twenty years of knowledge and experience, inputted by head brewer and co-founder Colin Paige. Combie Cryan is also co-founder and with their committed, dedicated team, they produce beers to an exceptional standard, which have something for all tastes and palates, having numerous lovers of their beers becoming ‘devotees’ to the brand. FRISBY (4.2% vol). This very popular lager has its maturation period extended, plus, with Fuggles hops, then produces a most pleasant aroma and drinking taste. DROVERS (4,3% vol) is described as a ‘Session IPA’. This hazy, Vermont beer is dry-hopped and uses Lemondrop, Bavaria Mandarina, Citra, Mosaic and Motueka hops very well. STEEPLECHASE (4.4% vol) is a classic pale ale, utilising English barley malts to great advantage. New Zealand and US hops combine, for this very popular beer. GUNMETAL (4.8% vol) I would describe as a ‘Black Lager’. The dark brown appearance entices to the aroma and then on to the mouth’s pleasures. Biscuity, malty, smooth. REVEREND HOOKER (5.5% vol). This Irish stout is a further, hugely popular production. The mouthfeel and palate’s smooth experience definitely do not disappoint. HOPPING SPREE (6.6% vol). This West Coast IPA is a golden delight. The ABV is raised, so that the full potential of this beer comes to recognition – Splendid! For all details of the full range of beers, plus latest news, tours and tastings, please make contact or visit the website. Round Corner Brewing Ltd, Melton Mowbray Market, Scalford Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE13 1JY. Tel: +44 (0) 7585 792 494 E-mail: info@roundcornerbrewing.com www.roundcornerbrewing.com

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

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Sport

Is it time to try tennis? Wimbledon has many of us glued to the TV screen. If you find yourself itching to be out there on the court, why not make 2022 the year you take up tennis? As well as helping you to keep fit and healthy, tennis is a good way to meet new people and it can really help to lift your mood. The benefits of tennis Tennis is a great all-round exercise. For a start, it’s cardiovascular as it increases your heart rate and breathing, which helps to keep your heart strong. You’ll burn around 400 to 600 calories an hour and work several different muscle groups. Tennis is also a weight-bearing exercise, so helps to strengthen your bones and reduce your risk of osteoporosis. Plus, it’s good for improving flexibility, balance and coordination. Who can play Most people can learn tennis as it can be adapted for different needs. Around 500 tennis venues across the UK deliver sessions for people with a disability or long-term health issue. Wheelchair Tennis is becoming increasingly popular and many clubs have sports wheelchairs available to hire. Visually Impaired Tennis is also growing in popularity. It uses a different court and a special ball that makes a louder noise on impact. For more details, email disabilitytennis@lta.org.uk.

What you’ll need Some tennis clubs will let you hire a racket. If you need to buy your own, look for one that’s suitable for beginners and has a larger head to make it easier to hit the ball. Rackets have different size handles, so you’ll probably want to try a few out in person rather than buying online. When you grip the handle, there should be around a 1cm gap between your thumb and first finger. Tennis balls can be picked up pretty cheaply. If you’re a complete beginner, look for ones with red markings. These are slower and lighter than standard tennis balls. The next level up is orange and then green, which is around 25% slower than standard. What to wear Dress in comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely. Layers are a good idea, especially if you’re playing outdoors. And, of course, you’ll need a decent pair of trainers. How to learn tennis Whether you have an old racket lurking in a cupboard or you’re a complete beginner, you’re likely to find a suitable class at your local leisure centre or tennis club. If you’d rather have one-to-one coaching, search for an accredited coach at www.lta.org.uk.

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Finance

Get the best deal Savvy spenders know to use comparison sites for many personal finance and related services, but making the most of such sites isn’t always easy. Here are some top tips for getting the best deal while saving time. INSURANCE Insurance is arguably the king of the comparison site, thanks to years of memorable ad campaigns. Getting comparisons makes sense for most forms of insurance, whether you’re a first-time customer or your policy is coming up for renewal. It doesn’t just save time going to individual sites, but reduces the need to keep typing in the same details about the cover you require. Counter-intuitively, it can make sense to try multiple comparison sites rather than just one. Both the policies and prices on offer can differ slightly across different comparison tools, so a little extra time could get you a better deal. The good news is that once you’ve run a search on a site, it will usually store your details and send you a reminder next year, letting you run a new search without having to type everything in again. It’s also worth checking insurers that make a point of not being available through comparison sites, most notably Direct Line, as they may have better deals. If you’ve got even more time to spare, check out cashback sites. You’ll need to check terms and conditions carefully, and be certain what you are signing up for, but they can work out to be a better option when you crunch the numbers. Occasionally you may get a cashback bonus that makes it a better

option than going for a cheaper base price through a standard comparison site. UTILITIES Sadly, gas and electricity supply is no longer an area where price comparison tools have much purpose. At the time of writing, the cost of wholesale gas (which also affects electricity production costs) is so high that suppliers have little incentive to offer deals cheaper than the government-imposed price cap. Without a crystal ball it’s impossible to predict future price movements, but it’s hard to see any supplier offering a sustainable fixed-price deal that’s below the price cap any time soon. BROADBAND, TV, MOBILES One area where people may overlook comparison tools is broadband, television and mobile phone services (particularly for those who own a handset outright). If you get your internet through a phone line rather than a cable network such as Virgin, you should be able to switch supplier with virtually no disruption, so even a small saving can be worthwhile. MORTGAGES Mortgages may seem like an obvious area for comparison sites, but they usually aren’t a perfect option. That’s because whether a particular provider will offer a loan, and on what terms, will vary significantly between individual customers. It’s certainly worth checking out a couple of price comparisons, but think of them more as a rough guide to whether buying a property in your desired price range is affordable rather than a way to choose a deal.

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Health

By Louise Addison

All about Eczema Eczema is a common skin condition that causes dry skin, itchy skin, rashes and scaliness, blisters, and skin infections. It is triggered by a combination of immune system activation, genetics, environmental factors, and stress. An eczema sufferer’s immune system overreacts to small irritants or allergens, which causes the skin to inflame. Eczema is intensely uncomfortable and irritating and notoriously difficult to treat. It mostly presents for the first time in childhood and seems to be related to genetics (if your mum or dad had eczema, you are more likely to develop it), but it can sometimes suddenly appear in an adult. When eczema is triggered by one or more of the factors previously mentioned, the skin reacts by overproducing cells…which leads to those flaky, pink and red dry patches. With childhood eczema symptoms often improve with age, but you can’t get rid of it completely and it can flare up periodically throughout your life. Since we can’t cure eczema, treatment is aimed at controlling both the condition and the effect it has on a sufferer’s life. Moisturising is the number one treatment used to control eczema. Sufferers have a weakened skin barrier, meaning that cold or excessively dry air causes it to inflame. So, moisturising and supporting the skin barrier are important. Look for moisturizers that contain humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Humectants are things like hyaluronic acid and glycerine. These are low -molecular weight substances that bind moisture to the epidermis (outer layer) of the skin, so hydrating it. Emollients are saturated and unsaturated variable-length

hydrocarbons which help maintain skin barrier function, and something called ‘cell membrane fluidity,’ which refers to the freedom of movement of protein and lipid constituents within the cell membranes. Emollients improve skin texture and appearance. Occlusives are oils and waxes which form physical barrier on the skin to block natural evaporation of water through the skin. Occlusives include petrolatum, beeswax, mineral oil, silicones, lanolin, and zinc oxide. Some eczema sufferers find that bathing in hot water reduces itching. But hot water can strip the skin of oils, making it more prone to irritation and exacerbating the symptoms. Dermatologists recommend brief, lukewarm baths and showers using gentle cleansers such as those that are oat-based, alcohol-free and which contain moisturisers. Cold dry air is best avoided by eczema sufferers, so a humidifier is a very useful tool to keep the air moist and prevent skin from dehydration. Medication can’t cure eczema as I said earlier, but they have an important role in its control. Sometimes, the over-the-counter moisturizers and lifestyle hacks aren’t enough and medical intervention is required. Topical topical corticosteroids are sometimes necessary as are topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. In addition, people with eczema are more prone to skin infections and these may need oral or topical antibiotics to bring them under control. Eczema is so common that you almost certainly know someone with the condition, if you don’t suffer with it yourself, so learning a little about what helps and what to avoid can be very useful.

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Special Report

Liquorice

What’s the story behind this polarising confectionary?

My Gran loved liquorice, but she was not a liquorice connoisseur. Bertie Basset’s Allsorts were her particular poison of choice and I use the word ‘poison’ quite deliberately as I hate the stuff. Berties’ mainly comprise various forms of sugar, including molasses and glucose syrup, wheat flour, starch, gelatine, and vegetable oil. Liquorice extract comes way down on the ingredients list, but it is at least present. In the U.S. black ‘licorice’ candy (they even spell it differently) generally contains no real liquorice at all; the flavour comes from anise seed. Die-hard liquorice-lovers by contrast insist on brands with a minimal ingredients list: molasses, flour, liquorice extract and aniseed oil, possibly a pinch of salt and natural colour. Liquorice root extract contains glycyrrhizin, a natural sweetener and steroid-like substance that can cause high blood pressure or heart arrhythmias when eaten regularly in large amounts. Gran was definitely on blood pressure medication back in the seventies so maybe there was a link, though she would have had to munch through something like 50g (2oz) per day for it to have had any effect and the quantity of

sugar in a box of Berties’ means she would probably have died of diabetes long before succumbing to death-by-liquorice! I’d read about a genetic quirk which is the reason that some people can’t stand the taste of coriander and I wondered if something similar might be responsible for the fact I dislike liquorice so intensely. I couldn’t find any research on the subject...but that doesn’t mean there isn’t an SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) lurking on a gene somewhere in my DNA which means liquorice tastes like bitter tyre rubber to me. Or maybe the taste is my body’s way of protecting me from the potentially harmful effects of glycyrrhizin. Who knows? The human affection for liquorice (although not this human) seems to date back to 400 BC, when Greek physician Hippocrates proclaimed it could treat ulcers and quench thirst. Alexander the Great even doled out liquorice rations to his troops to keep them hydrated on long marches, and stockpiles of liquorice were found in Tutankhamun’s tomb, sitting alongside other treasures. Glycyrrhizin means ‘sweet root’ in Greek, and it is

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indeed very sweet, being 40 times sweeter than sugar. It belongs to a flowering shrub which grows in the subtropical climate and rich soil found in Southern Europe, the Middle East, and South Asia. Glycyrrhizin is said to suppress coughs and clear phlegm, reduce inflammation and decrease viral loads. It’s also purported to fight cancer, diabetes, and dental disease, though there’s very little scientific research to support the latter claims. I’ve always thought liquorice sweets taste like bad medicine and in fact there is a story (or possibly a myth because I couldn’t find a name) that we have a pharmacist to thank for them. In 1760 in Pontefract this mystery pharmacist supposedly added sugar to a cough medicine containing liquorice root to make it more palatable, and a whole new line of confectionary was born. By the 1800s manufacturers were in full scale production across Europe. The Netherlands actually consumes the most liquorice per capita, and in Sweden they have Lakritsfestivalen (“liquorice festival”) complete with tastings, entertainment, and even sculptures made out of the stuff. But then they also eat pickled herrings, so I feel the bar for Swedish cuisine is not set terribly high. In spite of my distaste for all things liquorice, consumption of real liquorice (in contrast to the highly processed ‘candy’ version) is growing rapidly

across Europe as we cut back on sugary snacks but still crave something sweet. I’m not sure I could ever learn to love liquorice though; I’d rather eat pickled herrings!

By Sarah Davey

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Special Report By Tracey Anderson

Is there such a thing as a mid life crisis? We’ve all heard the term ‘mid-life crisis.’ But what is it exactly? The psychoanalyst Elliott Jaques first suggested the concept in in 1957. He hadn’t completed any research though, basing his assertion solely on a few autobiographies of famous men. He declared that that men in their mid-30s go through a depressive period when they contemplate their mortality for the first time. Jaques didn’t include women in this sweeping statement, citing the menopause, claiming it “obscured” women’s midlife transitions! Gail Sheehy then popularized the idea in the 70s. She based her assertions on rudimentary research from Yale, involving just 40 male subjects. In spite of this small sample, she confidently stated that the midlife crisis starts in the 40th year and ends at 45 ½, which seems oddly specific. More recent research suggests that we all go through three to five major transitions in our lives, some voluntary and some involuntary. They might be personal, including serious illness, major career change, birth, or divorce, or they might be due to external factors such as a housefire, bankruptcy, death of a close family member or a pandemic. It can take five years or more to completely work through just one of these transitions so we could each spend 30-50% of our lives in transition. It makes a lot of sense therefore to learn some strategies for dealing with change. First, accept that things change. Try not to fight or resist, and don’t go into denial. Acknowledge the change and lean into. Embrace the fact that although not all change is bad, even positive change brings stress. A new baby is joyful, but stressful, even if you planned for it. The same goes for starting a new business.

During transition periods it helps to stick to routines. Go for a walk or a run every day; make time to watch your favourite TV show, play five aside or practice your piano…whatever gives your life structure. These routines act as anchors to remind us that some things are still the same, and they give our brains a chance to recharge. Eat healthily. Stress can make us crave comfort food, or alcohol. Concentrate on buying and eating healthy foods but allow a few treats too. Exercise even if you don’t want to. Walking at a brisk pace clear’s your mind and bathes your brain in feel-good hormones. Have plenty of early nights. Set a regular bedtime and stick to it. Regular sleep really does refresh you and help you think more clearly. Find a support group. This can be a formal group, such a bereavement group, or the informal support of a few good friends or family members. No-one can do everything alone. Asking for help is a mature, sensible approach to coping with transition.. Be proactive about changes. What can you do to make the transition happen more smoothly? Write the steps down you need to take and work through them one by one. When you look back you’ll be surprised how far you’ve come. Most transitions even positive ones, involve a grieving period for the old life, where we come to terms with what we’ve lost or given up; a period of readjustment, which might seem chaotic, when we change habits, shed relationships, learn new skills, maybe even move house or continent; followed by a new beginning, where we can finally see a clear path ahead of us. We can’t ignore transitions and we can’t will them away. When we learn to deal with change we can accept it, embrace it, and use it to move forward in our life.

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House of Colour

Buying swimwear? As we might be able to actually travel to some hotter climes and enjoy some good weather thoughts turn to swimwear. Finding the right shapes and styles in swimwear is not always easy and I can’t say I enjoy finding it for myself but there are a few good principles to bear in mind. We all want to feel confident. Great colour – choose a wow colour on you. There’s nothing more confidence inspiring knowing you’ve got the right colour on so make it one of your best. Try it on at home – trying swimwear on in a shop can be thoroughly dispiriting, you’re not fully prepped when you look at yourself in the mirror, nor are you in the holiday you’re aiming for! Try at least two sizes in the same style as it can make a difference to coverage and comfort. Also move around a lot in it when you’re trying it on. Does it move with you or expose areas you’d rather not have on view? Clearly you need to be prepared to send/take them back. Scale of pattern – When you’re looking at pattern be aware of the size and scale of it on you. Does it look too overwhelming or too small? Your style session notes if you’ve had a style consultation will help. Shape – look at the shape of the swimsuit, bikini etc. Is it more of a straight cut or does it have curves? You need one that reflects your shape too. Bikini, halter crop, tankini, etc. – there’s a lot to choose from. First consider are you lounging or actually swimming. If you’re in the sun a lot consider a rash vest for sun protection. If you’re wearing a cropped item, is it cropped in the right place? Do you look foreshortened in it? High waisted bikini bottoms are a big trend currently but can be too high for some body shapes.

Trends – trends to look out for: Cut out – depending on your clothing personality elements where there is a piece cut out are definitely having moment. Angular body shapes and dramatic clothing personalities will feel most at home here. Be aware of where the cutout will sit on you and whether that will flatter your proportions, and cope with movement! A high leg cut is key to this trend and can be very flattering! Ruffles – wonderful in larger scale on curvaceous figure and in smaller scale for those who need delicate prettiness. Print – tropical prints and bold abstract designs are very much in evidence in swimwear, lovely on Dramatics and Naturals. Consider where the designs sit on your body when the swimwear piece is on – will that be flattering given your proportions. You won’t want a large line or end point highlighting your widest point. Texture – can be a forgiving element and there are quite a few options from M&S to Free People that have a texture to the fabric. Ruching and fabric twists are a mainstay here. It’s a very on trend element currently too. Micro-glitter – from sheen to a more eye catching element there is definitely a sprinkling of glitter and gleam to swimwear. If it feels good and you feel good in it wear it and wear it with pride! Article by Jennie Billings – House of Colour House of Colour has a network of stylists to help you update your look – find your nearest at houseofcolour.co.uk/find-a-stylist

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A PP N OI NO EC N ES T M S A EN RY T

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Beard Trim

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Shape Ups, Lines & Patterns

from £1.00

We are open as usual with Covid guidelines in place to keep you safe Unit 1, St Francis House, Whitehorse Lane, Great Ashby Neighbourhood Centre, Stevenage, SG1 6NH

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Special Report

How to choose a care home Choosing a care home for yourself or someone you love is never easy. Here are a few things you’ll want to consider. Nursing homes versus care homes Nursing homes have qualified medical staff on site; care homes may not, so do consider what type of service you’re looking for. It’s worth speaking to your GP about which type of home might be best and whether they can recommend anywhere. Your local council can also assess your care needs. Certain health conditions, such as dementia and Parkinson’s, will require specialist care, so you’ll need to check whether the homes you’re looking at have staff with suitable skills and experience. Budget You’ll want to check whether you’re entitled to any financial support towards the fees, so do contact your local council for a means test. Extra support towards nursing care may also be available from the NHS. Once you know what help you’re entitled to, you can work out which local care homes are within your budget. Remember to check exactly what the fees cover and how much notice you’ll be given when the fees increase. What makes you happy? Have a think about the type of care home you or your loved one would most enjoy living in. Do you want a garden? What kind of activities would you like to take part in? Do you want a small, peaceful home, or a larger, sociable one near to shops and cafés? Do you need one on a bus route to make it easier to reach for visitors? Do you need a home that will accept visits from pets?

Read reviews Check the regulatory authority’s report for each care home that you’re considering and read reviews at www.carehome.co.uk and www.iwantgreatcare.org. It’s also worth asking for opinions on social media, for example on your local Facebook groups. Visit each care home on your shortlist Brochures and websites are useful for creating your shortlist, but you’ll want to visit a few homes before you make your final decision. When you visit, speak to a few members of staff and residents, as well as the manager. Prepare a list of questions before you go. Does the home feel dark and dated or light, fresh and inviting? How welcoming do the social spaces feel? Can you sample the food or at least see the menu? What’s the policy for visitors? If you or your relative has a physical impairment, how will the home manage that? What size rooms are available? Extra information You can search for local care homes at www.carehome.co.uk, where you’ll also find reviews and advice on financial support, care needs assessments and more. Age UK (www.ageuk.org.uk, 0800 055 6112) has lots of advice about choosing and paying for a care home. You may also want to seek advice from specialist health charities, such as the Alzheimer’s Society (www.alzheimers.org.uk, 0333 150 3456) and Parkinson’s UK (www.parkinsons.org.uk, 0808 800 0303).

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Interiors

By Katherine Sorrell

Choosing garden furniture Enhance your outside space with furniture that is handsome, comfortable, practical and long-lasting. Here are some tips on selecting the best options for you. What could be nicer than relaxing over a coffee and a book on your balcony, enjoying drinks with friends in your courtyard or eating dinner with family in the garden? We all appreciate our outside spaces much more these days, and the trend is to treat them as extensions of our living areas, with lighting, soft furnishings and furniture that really suits the way we live. The good news is that huge changes in design and technology over recent years have brought about great improvements in the quality of outdoor furniture, ensuring that it is not only more comfortable to use but also looks better and lasts longer. There are endless choices, at all price levels, to suit any kind of outdoor lifestyle. When picking out new garden furniture, the first question to ask is who will use the space, and what for? Will it be for meals, socialising or relaxing in the sun? How many people need to be accommodated,

whether regularly or occasionally, and do they have any special requirements? Thinking about this will help decide what furniture you need, whether a dining set for six or more, a bar set, a small bistro set for two, a sofa and pair of armchairs with comfortable cushions, or a hammock, swing seat or set of loungers. In larger gardens, you may wish to have several groupings of furniture, and where there are beautiful views it is nice to place an armchair, bench seat or swinging egg chair so as to enjoy them. In a small garden, corner and L-shaped sofas, slim benches and foldaway chairs can help make the most of the space, or another way to compromise is to buy a set in which the table can be raised to dining height and, afterwards, lowered to act as a coffee table. Consider where the furniture will be placed, as this will determine the largest sizes you can opt for.

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You will need level ground, near the house, with enough space not only for the furniture but also to pull chairs in and out and to walk comfortably around the set-up. Pay attention to the way the sun moves around the garden and avoid any particularly exposed areas, and consider whether it’s either necessary for furniture to be so heavy that it doesn’t get blown away or light enough to be moved around easily. Scale is important, too – in a small space, chunky pieces may look out of place, while slender furniture can be ‘lost’ in a large garden. Bear in mind that, for a good proportion of the year, you won’t be using your new garden furniture – but you will be able to see it from the house. Does it look good from all angles? Will it need a cover of some sort? And some elements – e.g. cushions – will need to be stored during winter, so ensure there is enough space available, indoors or out, to do this. Finally, how will the furniture work with its surroundings and what styles do you prefer? Depending on the period of the house and the look of the garden, you may opt for a deliberately traditional look, something very modern, or a timeless style that’s somewhere in-between. The natural colours of rattan and timber, in classic, elegantly rounded shapes, work beautifully with country gardens and older properties, while brighter colours and minimal, angular shapes look great with modern properties and urban courtyards. Garden furniture can be a major investment, so it is worth spending time researching all the alternatives online and in person, asking the retailer about materials, durability, aftercare and any guarantees. Choose pieces that reflect both the interior of the house and your personality – and you will enjoy them immensely for many years to come.

2 What material is best for garden furniture? Metal Choose rust-proof metal and it will be strong, durable and low maintenance, though will retain heat on warm days (don’t burn your legs when you sit down!). It can be powder-coated for a choice of colours. Timber Teak contains natural oils that enhance its durability, while solid oak is naturally long-lasting, provided some regular aftercare is carried out. All timber will wear naturally over time, but bear in mind that cheaper woods will not last nearly as long. Weatherproof wicker While natural wicker is not weather-resistant, this popular choice is made using a synthetic material that can be woven like real rattan, with variations of tone and texture, onto a lightweight aluminium frame. Quality versions look and feel like natural wicker but are completely weatherproof. Plastic Can be a cheap option, but not always. Look for sculptural shapes, cool colours and eco-friendly, recycled credentials.

1 A classic foldable design in walnut-coloured timber, this dining set is practical, good-looking and affordable. Copenhagen four-seat dining set, £599, Dobbies. 2 Give your garden a modern makeover with a dining set in powder-coated aluminium. Zuiver Vondel small garden table, £849; small garden bench, £439; and pair of garden armchairs, £518; all Cuckooland. 3 Hand-woven in synthetic rattan with waterproof cushions, this sofa set has a classic/contemporary look that works in many styles of outdoor space. Sussex mocha sofa and lounge armchairs with 113cm coffee table, £2,159, Bridgman. STOCKISTS Bridgman: 020 8804 7474; bridgman.co.uk Cuckooland: 01305 231 231; cuckooland.com Dobbies: 0131 5616 406; dobbies.com

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Gardening

What do we mean by exotic plants? When we talk about exotic plants, it simply means those that are not native. Historically, here in the UK there has been a drive to promote the planting of native trees and shrubs, provided the provenance is known, because of the risks of pests and diseases. The danger is lower when growing seed that has been harvested from trees grown here. The young plants tend to be more resilient and they display a better ability to adapt. Imported seeds, plants and trees carry a risk of introducing alien pests and diseases into the UK, against which our native species have no natural defence. There is, however, a problem with the long-term biosecurity of our UK trees. Did you know there are now only around 30 truly native species, plus subspecies and hybrids that have naturalised themselves here? The term ‘native’ is generally defined as trees that established themselves in Britain around 10,000 years ago. This was the end of the last ice age, at a time when the English Channel was gradually forming. Plant hunters began collecting specimens from around the world during Roman times. The activity saw plants introduced into Britain and this gradually opened the window for pests and diseases too. The

Ages of Discovery and Enlightenment saw more and more explorers setting off around the world and bringing back unusual plants, in addition to teas, food, spices and animals. Many of the living species ended up in private collections or in botanical gardens. This extended the range of plants within the UK, and we have come to love and admire many of these introduced species. The glorious Liquidambar, or sweet gum, for example, is native to Asia, parts of the Mediterranean and North America. Many acer trees originate not only from Japan but also from China and Korea. The tulip tree, Liriodendron tulipifera, hails from North America, and many of the flowering cherries originate from Japan, China and the USA. Even apple trees have an exotic history! The original ancestor of many modern apple cultivars can be linked back to an ancient apple: Malus sieversii. This wild apple is native to the mountains of Kazakhstan in Asia, where they can still be found today. It’s not surprising that UK trees have succumbed to many devastating problems. One of the first to be widely recognised was Dutch elm disease, which was said to have been accidentally imported from

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Canada in the late 1960s. It is thought to have killed over 30 million elms. Ash dieback was first reported around ten years ago and this disease is expected to kill up to 95 per cent of Fraxinus excelsior. In the last 30 years there have been more than 20 serious problems caused by imported pests and diseases. Many diseases are caused by fungus pathogens, such as Phythopthora ramorum, which is affecting larch trees, and Phythopthora pluvialis, which affects western hemlock, certain types of pine trees and the Douglas fir. The latter was originally found in Oregon in the USA. The Oak Processionary Moth, native to southern Europe, is now found in London and restrictions on movement of oak trees have recently been put in place by Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs). This raises a question about exotic plants. Should we avoid planting them, or welcome species that are not native? Many people believe that the tipping point has now been reached. UK species are declining so rapidly that we need to extend the range of plants. This means planting non-natives that will safeguard the future tree canopy of this green and pleasant island, especially now that we know the true value of trees in respect of tackling climate change. There is a lot to be said for strength in diversity. Planting exotic species together with natives will help to plan for the future, knowing that the climate is changing. It is estimated that summer

temperatures will rise by up to ten degrees centigrade by the end of the century. Extreme weather events, such as flooding, drought and high winds, are increasingly likely. UK wildlife generally prefers native species of tree and shrub, but looking to the future is now essential. Our woodlands, garden planting and the wider landscape requires future-proofing and cannot adapt fast enough without our help. The right plant in the right place, for both now and the future, has never been so important.

Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

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Garden View

Trellis

Trellis is underutilised in most gardens, yet it has a myriad of uses. It can cover an ugly wall or screen an ugly garden building, and it can be used on one or more sides of a patio to provide privacy. You can use it as a framework to support plants but can also be a decorative feature in its own right. Strategically placed trellis can make a garden appear more interesting. Counterintuitively it can also provide the illusion of greater space by interrupting the line of sight and making people curious so drawing them out into the garden to explore. Most garden centres have a good range of functional and attractive trellis, readymade into units. If you can’t find exactly what you are looking for there are companies who will precision cut a specific design and size for you. Obviously, you will pay more for the privilege, but you will get exactly what you want. In a small space where you might only need one piece it can be a worthwhile investment, because in a small garden any structure is more noticeable and becomes a visual statement. If you plan to grow plants up your trellis then make sure the posts or wall that it is fixed to will support the weight of the trellis plus the full-grown plant. It can be tempting to plant a variety of climbers, but

a small space often benefits from bold planting using fewer varieties. Beware of using all deciduous plants because the structure will look bare in the winter. Vines such as Vitis coignetiae, which has large heartshaped leaves and beautiful autumn colour are great for a large area. V. vinifera ‘Purpurea’ has very attractive leaves which as the name suggests are purple. It produces bunches of dark, tightly clustered grapes. Clematis are a good choice. C. montana is vigorous and might swamp a small trellis, but if you have the space they can be grown through other climbers and produce a fabulous summer display. Ivies are good for winter colour. Don’t think that all ivies are dark green. H. Helix ‘Goldheart’ has super attractive yellow leaves edged in bright green while H. helix ‘Chester’ has leaves with wide cream margins and is good for brightening up a gloomy area. Passion flowers look very exotic and are a particularly good choice for a trellis. Scented climbing roses are one of my favourite plants to grow up trellis which is screening a patio. I love ‘Compassion’, which has the most beautiful blooms in pink / apricot, and a strong, sweet fragrance. Prune every winter. Remember to check trellis every year for broken or rotten supports and treat periodically with wood preservative to prolong its life and freshen its appearance. Consider adding a trellis screen to your garden this summer. Happy Gardening By Rachael Leverton

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Business gone slow? Let us help!

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Pets

One Fun Day Is Finally Back!

Saturday 18th June 2022 – 9.30am to 5pm The RSPCA ‘One Fun Day’ is back with exciting events all across the country. Join us for what promises to be a spectacular day. On Saturday 18th June 2022 at the RSPCA Bedford shop on Thurlow Street (near the bus station), we will be taking part in the National RSPCA One Fun Day. This is just one of over 40 events happening simultaneously across the country organised by the RSPCA to support our network of branches, animal centres and all of the animals in our care, and we would love you to be part of it. One Fun Day is back ‘in the real world’ this year following our covid enforced virtual fun days in recent years, and we’re getting ready to welcome you to a wonderful day of animal-themed fun. We will be running a tombola, name the bear competition, adopt a pet (cuddly toys) and a lucky dip amongst other things! Naturally, we will also be having a raffle with a lot of really exciting prizes – some of which have been very kindly donated by local businesses. Prizes range from Amazon vouchers to a Marks and Spencer food hamper. Face painting is another popular activity that we will be running in the shop. Why not ask our talented artist to transform you or a member of the family into their favourite animal? If you or your business or company would like to donate any raffle prizes – it is not too late. Please contact the Bedford shop on the number below, or drop us an email. And if you would like to offer to volunteer to help out at your local One Fun Day event, visit the national RSPCA website, search for ‘One Fun Day Volunteer’ and complete the short form so that you can be matched with your nearest local One Fun Day. Or call the shop with your enquiry. No two One Fun Day events are the same. If you are not in Bedford on Saturday 18th June but would

really like to support the event, why not log on to the national RSPCA website. You will then be able to find out what’s taking place in your area. Everything from charity shop parties, family nature walks and family fun days. Ampthill, Hitchin and Cambridge for example, are all hosting exciting activities. All designed for us to celebrate being One RSPCA and raise valuable funds to directly help animals whilst having fun in your local area. We look forward to seeing you there. Have you seen our Facebook page yet, which keeps you informed of the work we undertake in the local area? We also detail the fluffy friends that are looking for their new ”forever homes”. Please search “RSPCA Bedfordshire North” within Facebook and feel free to follow our page. You’ll then be able to see our fabulous Jubilee window display, as designed and created by our shop manager, Elsie. If you need to contact our Branch (North Bedfordshire) for any reason we can be reached by the details below, or for an animal welfare issue or emergency, contact 0300 1234 999. Lines are open 7 days a week 24/7. info@rspcabedsnorth.org.uk 01234 266965 / 01234 930304

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Home Products

Outdoor Living This modern, clean-lined furniture is ideal for a small urban rooftop, patio or balcony. Montreal luxury rope-weave three-piece bistro set, £250, B&M.

By Katherine Sorrell

Create a relaxed summer vibe with gorgeous garden furnishings and accessories. Add a spot of colour and pattern in the form of fun and funky cushions. Premium outdoor scatter cushion, £12, B&M. Lightweight and compact, this portable lantern (powered by a gas canister) can be safely popped on a tabletop or by a seating area for added atmosphere. Cosiscoop timber fire lantern, £179.99, Dobbies.

This summer is all about the egg chair – it’s a garden must-have that offers an inviting place to curl up and while away the hours in the great outdoors. Rey hanging chair with stand, £989.99, Wayfair.

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The Art of the ‘Outerior’

Add a hammock to your outside space for the ultimate in luxury lounging. Cruz cotton hammock with macramé edging, £135, Beaumonde.

Introduce intrigue and a sense of extra depth to your garden with a mirror mounted to a wall or fence. Orlanda outdoor mirror, £149, Furniture Village.

A hardwood deckchair will last years and years. Choose a seat sling that complements other elements of your outdoor space. Rendezvous fruit deckchair, £175, Oliver Bonas. Grab the curved metal handle and move this lamp around your garden to brighten your evening. Corte IP44 outdoor colourchanging rechargeable table light, £36, Iconic Lights.

Mix and match a range of vivid colours for a vibrant and exciting garden style. Selection of outdoor furnishings and accessories, all John Lewis. STOCKISTS B&M: 0330 838 9000; bmstores.co.uk Dobbies: 0131 5616 406; dobbies.com Iconic Lights: 0161 837 6092; iconiclights.co.uk Oliver Bonas: 020 8059 2414; oliverbonas.com

• Think of your outside space as another room of the house – or, if it’s particularly large, a series of rooms. What do you need to make it welcoming, comfortable and practical? Start with furniture for eating, chatting and relaxing – from dining sets to chairs and coffee tables to hammocks and swing seats. • Add cushions, throws, beanbags and rugs that introduce coordinated colour, interesting patterns and attractive textures. Modern outdoor textiles should be reasonably waterproof, mould-proof, stain-resistant and UV-resistant, though it is best to store them away over the winter. • Lighting is vital, helping to extend the life of your garden beyond dusk. If you are planning building work, you could incorporate exterior-quality cabling and wired-in light fittings, but otherwise there are plenty of options in the form of solar and rechargeable lights in an array of different styles. • You may wish to add some form of heating, such as a fire pit or brazier, chiminea, table-top heater or eco-friendly electric patio heater. • Finally, consider including coordinating planters in a range of sizes, and perhaps one or two decorative pieces such as a garden artwork, sculpture, mirror or water feature.

Beaumonde: 01202 707 770; beaumonde.co.uk Furniture Village: 0800 804 8879; furniturevillage.co.uk John Lewis: 0345 610 0359; johnlewis.com Wayfair: wayfair.co.uk

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Special Report

Under Pressure Which pressure washer should you buy? By Matthew Carter If you’ve been thinking about buying a pressure washer but aren’t sure where to start we have some tips. Pressure washer size is determined by the pressure it provides rather than the physical dimensions of the washer. Pressure Washer Size Guide: Light duty: 100 bar / 1,500 PSI and below - use for cars, bikes, garden furniture, bins, and outdoor play equipment. Medium duty: 100-200 bar / 1,500-2,800 PSI - use for fences, lawnmowers, gutters, sheds, walls, decking, patios, and driveways. Heavy duty: 200+ bar / 2,800+ PSI - use if you have large, dirty walls, decking, patios, or a long driveway. Water Flow Rate (WFR) - The water flow rate is measured in litres per minute or hour. High WFR + high PSI provides very efficient cleaning and rinsing capability. Water Butt Connectivity - A water butt connection will allow you to purchase a compatible accessory that will connect your pressure washer to your water butt.

This means that you can use the rainwater collected in your water butt for pressure washing, which saves you money and is kinder to the environment. Extra features to consider - These will determine how easy your pressure washer is to use – consider wheels, hose length, and cord length. Most pressure washers will come with a selection of attachments such as interchangeable wands, nozzles, brushes, and detergents. But you can also buy specialist accessories. Caution - Be careful with windows; especially old ones because the pressure might be too strong for the pane causing it to crack. Some pressure washers have adjustable pressure settings, and a lighter pressure setting may be suitable for cleaning windows but check the manufacturer’s instructions.

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SHIRON

Domestic Appliances Repairs of

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Technology

Cutting-edge technology The high-tech way to mow your lawn Every year we ask the same question: are robot lawnmowers affordable yet? And every year the answer gets a bit better. At the time of writing, the extremely impressive Flymo EasyLife 500 GO has dropped from £649 to £550, which is a lot for a lawn mower but not a lot of money for one that’ll do the mowing for you. The Flymo is not the cheapest one around: the Yard Force Compact 400Ri is currently £385. It has a 20V battery and a 16cm cutting width, and it’s designed for lawns of up to 400 square metres. The Flymo can handle slightly bigger lawns of up to 500 square metres, but while there’s also an 800-square-metre model, it’s £300 more expensive. The big benefit here is convenience, of course, but that convenience does cost you: there are lots of cordless human-controlled mowers for less than £200, with more premium models such as Bosch’s EasyRotak 36-550 coming in at £350 to £400. Those mowers tend to have much bigger cutting widths and more height adjustment, and they can handle

bigger batteries too: the 36V battery in the Bosch delivers more power and better battery life than the smaller blocks in robot mowers. Cordless strimmers are cheaper still: well-known brands such as Black and Decker and Bosch come in at under £100, while some less famous brands come in at under £50 for similarly specified strimmers. It’s worth taking the battery system into account here, so, for example, the batteries that go into a Bosch or Black and Decker strimmer are interchangeable with the firms’ cordless power tools, including other garden tools. That means one battery can be used across multiple products, which can be bought in battery-free versions to save you money. The big downside to any cordless tools is that sooner or later the batteries run out. You can address that by having an extra charged battery handy, or you could go for a corded device instead. Bosch’s Rotak 32R is a solid option for smaller gardens at £89, while its EasyGrassCut strimmer is just £32.

Yard Force Compact 400Ri EasyGrassCut

Bosch’s EasyRotak 36-550

Flymo EasyLife 500 GO

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Codeword 1

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Sudoku

Hard Sudoku

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

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What's On

WHAT'S ON IN JUNE 1 JUNE Pic-n-Mix Social Group 10.30am-12pm Letchworth Library Meets the first Wednesday of every month. Each session has a theme or activity, and suggestions are made attendees. Drop in for a cuppa, a chat and make some new friends! 1 JUNE Aircraft Enthusiasts’ Group 1pm. Shuttleworth Guests £5 ‘Roald Dahl’s War’ with Graham Laurie. Meets on the first Wednesday of every month. Entry to Shuttleworth £15 (valid for one month). Email: 99aegr@gmail.com Web: www.a-e-g.org.uk 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 JUNE Hinxworth Art Society 10am-12pm Hinxworth Village Hall Drawing, painting, coffee and chat. No need to book. Occasional oneday courses and demonstrations. Email: 99aegr@gmail.com 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 JUNE Storytime 10.30-11am Stevenage Library Free - donations welcome Interactive story sessions, perfect for pre-school children. No need to book. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 2, 9, 15, 23 & 30 JUNE Sapphire Social Singles Club 8pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin Meet every Thursday. A friendly social group for single people to meet and make new friends generally 50+ age group. Tel/text: Ian 07900 890583 for info sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk

3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24 & 28 JUNE Bridge Club 1pm Howgills, South View, Letchworth £3. Tuesdays and Fridays. Play from 1pm. Beginners and improvers welcome – we play very friendly Rubber Bridge. Tel: Gill Cheaney 01462 686806 Email: bridgeclub@lalg.org.uk 4 JUNE The Signals Museum Open Day 10am-4pm RAF Henlow, SG16 6DN The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open to the public. Entry is free but official photo ID required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom. Tel: 07778 837263 Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 5 JUNE Jubilee Flying Circus Air Show 9.30am-5pm. Shuttleworth, Old Warden Park, Biggleswade From the moment you arrive, circus performers on the ground and in the air will leave you with wide eyes and open mouths, whilst a circus skills workshop will teach your children the ropes. A truly unique day out and memorable occasion for all the family to celebrate. Web: www.shuttleworth.org/ jubileeflyingcircus 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27 & 30 JUNE Retired Persons Table Tennis Club Mondays 11am-1.30pm. Thursdays 1.30-4pm Memorial Hall, Stotfold The club plays both doubles and singles. Monthly subscription payable. Sadly, we are not a club for beginners at this time, but we do have vacancies for new members. Email: terrygriffiths50@gmail.com

6, 13, 20 & 27 JUNE Baby Rhyme Time 10.30-11am Letchworth Library Free - donations welcome Fun half hour sessions of songs and rhymes are perfect for helping your child to learn language skills and are an opportunity for you to meet other families too. Booking essential. www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 6, 13, 20 & 27 JUNE Stevenage Choral Society 7.45pm Stevenage Music Centre, Mobbsbury, Stevenage Meets every Monday during term time. 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. Tel: 01438 365769 Email: info@stevenagechoral.org.uk Web: www.stevenagechoral.org.uk 6, 13, 20 & 27 JUNE Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-10.30pm. Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Medium-sized social club for single people aged 40 upwards. Meets every Monday night. Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 Web: www.branch-out.org.uk 9 JUNE The Arts Society North Herts Doors open 10.15am, 11am-12.15pm Broadway Cinema and Theatre, Eastcheap, Letchworth ‘Augustus and Gwen John’ by Linda Smith. Visitors welcome. Lift access. Web: theartssocietynorthherts. org.uk

3 JUNE Bedford Art Society 7.15pm for 7.30pm Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford Members free, visitors £5 Jill Buckingham paints portraits in soft pastels. Tel: Jean Paterson 01234 307210 Web: www.bedsartsociety.co.uk

6, 13, 20 & 27 JUNE Monday Painting Group 9.00am-12pm Letchworth Corner Sports Club, Whitethorn Lane Meets every Monday. Each term we choose a selection of subjects to paint. If you are interested, you are welcome to try it for £5 per session. Tel: Valerie Williams 01462 624439 Email: mondaypainting@lalg.org.uk

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9-11 JUNE The Allotment Plot 7.30pm, bar from 7pm Meppershall Village Hall Tickets £14 or table of 6 £80 HATS Drama Group. An evening of murder mystery, accompanied by a ploughman’s supper and quiz. Tickets: www.ticketsource.co.uk/ hats-drama

What's On

Deadline for What’s On entries is the 10th of the previous month.

What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.net

9, 15, 23 & 30 JUNE Hitchin Thursday Art Club 9.30am-12pm. St. John’s Community Centre, St. John’s Road, Hitchin We meet every Thursday for painting and drawing, etc. We are a friendly group who enjoy art and chatting. Tel: Mike 07977 347707 9, 15, 23 & 30 JUNE Baby Rhyme Time 10.15-10.45am & 11.15-11.45am Hitchin Library Free - donations welcome Fun half hour sessions of songs and rhymes are perfect for helping your child to learn language skills. Booking essential. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 10 JUNE Bedfordshire Family History Society 7pm and 7.30pm on Zoom Drama Theatre, Mark Rutherford School, Bedford AGM and ‘Lingering Legacies’ by Pamela Birch. Web: www.bfhs.org.uk 10, 17 & 24 JUNE Storytime 10.30-11am Letchworth Library Free - donations welcome Interactive story sessions, perfect for pre-school children. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 10, 17 & 24 JUNE Bridge Club. 1.30-4.30pm Springfield House, Old Stevenage Community Centre Play social cut-in Chicago Bridge. Play is informal and friendly. Tel: Richard Bean 01438 221517 11 JUNE Weston Concerts 7.30pm Holy Trinity Church, Weston Tickets £18, under 25s £5 Alexander Chance (counter-tenor) and Toby Carr (lute). Tickets: www.trybooking.co.uk/ BQFK Web: www.westonmusicsociety. org.uk

13 JUNE Icknield Quilters 7.45pm Baldock Community Centre, Simpson Drive, Baldock Meets second Monday of the month. Visitors welcome. 14 JUNE Lego Club 3.30-4.30pm Baldock Library Second Tuesday of the month. For children aged 5-12. Limited places book at the library. 16 JUNE Hitchin Friendship Club 2.15-4.15pm St Michaels Mount Community Centre Meets third Thursday of the month. Talks, pub lunches, day trips, coffee mornings, holidays, refreshments, book exchange, raffle and quiz. Email: hfcinfo885@gmail.com 21 JUNE Make Music for Ukraine 11am Letchworth Garden Square Make Music Day, a worldwide event of community singing. Individuals and groups will be making music interspersed with community singing. Donations for humanitarian aid. Tel: Elaine Fox 01462 735642 Email: elainefoxmm@gmail.com 19 JUNE Stevenage RSPB Local Group coach trip to Strumpshaw Fen. 7.20am RSPB speciality reedbed reserve site SE of Norwich for Swallowtail Butterflies and Norfolk hawker Dragonflies. Graham 01438 232055 Email: grahambeevor@hotmail.co.uk 19 JUNE Concert by Moonrakers and OXUS 8pm Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin Tickets £20, under 27s free, livestream tickets £10, under 27s free An exciting collaborative ‘crossover’ programme will feature eight musicians on stage with folk songs interwoven with some of Vaughan Williams’s well-known work. Preconcert dining available. Web: https://benslowmusic.org

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21 JUNE Bedford National Trust Association AGM 2.30pm Addison Centre, Kempston AGM and refreshments. Mike Muncaster will talk on ‘Gone for a Burton’. No admission charge for AGM. Everyone welcome. Parking. Tel: Robin Salter 01234 261897 26 JUNE Ickleford Open Gardens 12 noon - 5pm Adults £5, accompanied under 14s free. Ploughman’s lunches, cream teas and gluten free and vegan cakes. Proceeds to the St. Katharine’s Church. Tel: Rosemary 01462 454760 Email: rhgillham@hotmail.com 26 JUNE Afternoon Tea 4pm Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin £19.95pp/£24.95pp with a glass of Prosecco. Enjoy afternoon tea at Benslow Music complemented with live music. Booking required. Tel: 01462 459446 Web: https://benslowmusic.org UNTIL 2 OCTOBER Body & Soul Exhibition The Higgins, Bedford Free entry. Body & Soul is a new exhibition exploring how women have been represented in art over the past two centuries. Web: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk EVERY WEEKDAY Clifton Walking Group Meets on weekdays at 8.30am and in the afternoon for an hour. A friendly bunch of people of various ages and abilities. Monthly weekend walk of 6-8 miles. Tel: Suzanne I’ons 07933 709006 Email: ionssuzanne@gmail.com Letchworth Arts & Leisure Group Annual membership £10 per household. Many groups and activities. Online talks every month. Non-members can try activities before joining. Web: lalg.org.uk

Seasonal Recipe

Barbecue steak with chimichurri dressing Chimichurri is a delicious spicy herb sauce ideal for serving with meats. For maximum flavour, marinate the steak in a little of the sauce overnight. When barbecuing, remember that cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of your steak and how you like it cooked. Instead of using the barbecue you can also griddle the steak. This recipe serves four as a light dish or two as a larger main. Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 8 minutes Marinate: 1-2 hours or overnight Serves 4

1. Place the sauce ingredients in a blender and process to form a chunky sauce. Place the steaks in a shallow container. Spoon a third of the sauce over the beef. Cover and place in the fridge for 2 hours, or overnight if possible.

Ingredients 2 x 150g lean beef fillet steaks 200g bag of mixed salad leaves 4 radishes, sliced thinly ½ a cucumber, cut in half lengthways and sliced

2. Remove the steaks from the fridge and allow to reach room temperature.

Chimichurri sauce 1 garlic clove, crushed Pinch of sea salt Pinch of black pepper ½ a red chilli, deseeded and chopped Large handful of flat-leaf parsley leaves Handful of coriander leaves Pinch of ground cumin 30ml apple cider vinegar 75ml olive oil

3. If barbecuing, make sure the barbecue is mediumhot. Alternatively, heat a griddle pan until hot. Cook the steaks, using long-handled tongs to turn it, until cooked to your liking (2-4 minutes on each side). Turn the steaks once only during cooking – any more and the juices escape, which can make the meat tough. 4. Remove from the pan and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Slice thinly. 5. Place the salad on a platter and top with the radishes and cucumber. Place the steak slices on top. Drizzle over the sauce to serve.

Nutrition per serving: 285kcal, fat 24g (of which saturates 4.7g), carbohydrates 0.9g (of which sugars 0.7g), protein 17g

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I D Decorating

Premier

Painting & Decorating Services

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.

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

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

www.premierpd.co.uk

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

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

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Crossword Puzzle Solution from our May Edition Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Philip Carter, Stukeley Meadows, Huntingdon

May’s Codeword and Sudoku Solutions

Easy

Hard

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

The Villager Prize Crossword Prize

£25

Across 1 Type of pudding (7) 5 Trimmed (5) 8 Large pebbles (5) 9 Brutal (7) 10 At right angles (13) 11 Without effort (6) 12 Grieves for (6) 15 A protest (13) 18 Financial system (7) 19 Beverage (5) 20 Stairs (5) 21 Hauled (7)

Complete the crossword and fill in your details below, before

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

Down 1 Sticky liquid (5) 2 Accompanies (7) 3 Assorted (13) 4 Split (6) 5 Book of facts (13) 6 Snarl (5) 7 Removes weapons (7) 11 Goes on forever (7) 13 Fence (7) 14 Remained (6) 16 Large deer (5) 17 Nude (5)

Name:

Address:



Tel:

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Books

Summer Reads

By Kate Duggan

Summer tiiime, and the living is eeeeasy…. Whether you’re looking for some barbecue inspiration or a new novel to keep you company on the hammock, we’ve got you covered. Tom Kerridge’s Outdoor Cooking Tom Kerridge

From Umami Mushroom & Halloumi Burgers to Shawarma Chicken Wraps, Tom Kerridge’s recipes will lift your barbecuing endeavours to the next level. Don’t panic, none of them will keep you tied to the kitchen while your friends are enjoying themselves with a beer in the garden. They may well nudge you into barbecuing daily well into autumn though.

One Italian Summer Rebecca Serle

Reeling from the death of her mother, Katy heads to Italy on what was supposed to be a long-awaited mother-anddaughter trip. While there, she meets the 30-year-old version of her mother – almost unrecognisable from the woman Katy’s known all her life. As the two women become friends against the vivid backdrop of the Amalfi Coast, Katy works through her grief and discovers a lot more about herself in the process.

The Modern Gardener Frances Tophill – published by Kyle Books

Summer holidays are just around the corner. If you’re already wondering how you’re going to keep the kids out of your hair, this book might help. The focus is on easy-to-set-up activities to do outside the house, from games for the train to craft challenges for family gatherings. There’s even a page of ideas for making the most of sugar sachets and serviettes at service stations.

Feel Better In 5: Your Daily Plan to Feel Great for Life Rangan Chatterjee

Many of us go on a health kick at the start of the summer. We aim for major changes, struggle to stick to them and then beat ourselves up (and reach for another biscuit). Rangan Chatterjee’s plan is decidedly easier to stick to. Five-minute practices, three times a day. One for your heart. One for your body. And one for your mind. He also gives top tips for creating better habits and getting to the root of what’s holding you back.

Twelve Secrets Robert Gold

If spending time outdoors has got you itching to make some changes to your garden, this book is a good place to look for inspiration. As the subtitle explains, it’s intended as ‘a practical guide to gardening creatively, productively and sustainably’. You’ll find bags of information on everything from designing your garden, choosing plants and addressing common challenges to using your garden plants to make drinks, natural dyes and more.

Five Minute Mum: On the Go Daisy Upton

Fed up of ‘churn them out’ crime series? Looking for a fast-paced, intelligent thriller with twists and turns aplenty? Take a chance on Robert Gold’s debut – Twelve Secrets. The main character, Ben Harper, is an investigative journalist pushed into taking a fresh look at a crime he really doesn’t want to explore – the murder of his brother ten years before. It seems that in Ben’s tight-knit community, everyone has something to hide. Gripping.

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Plumbing

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

07530 728091 Wheelie Bin Cleaning

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Stevenage June 2022

Articles inside

Villager Prize Crossword

Summer Reads

Outdoor Living

Trellis

What do we mean by exotic plants?

Choosing garden furniture

How to choose a care home

Get the best deal

Buying Swimwear

The story behind liquorice

Is it time to try tennis?

Five reasons to visit Sardinia

Brewing Today: Round Corner Brewing Company

Summer Loving

How to look after your feet