Stevenage March 2021

VILLAGER The

March 2021

and Town

Life

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

Inside this issue Discovering the

Scottish Highlands British Pie Week 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...

Get Sowing....................................................................27 Discovering the Scottish Highlands................................28 Together for Animal Welfare..........................................30 Activate! Keeping Kids Fit...............................................33 Puzzle Page....................................................................36 Asking for help doesn’t mean you’re a burden................38 Villager Prize Crossword.................................... 42 Book Review..................................................................44 Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery Wins Award...............46 Useful Numbers.............................................................47

Twentieth Century Medical Marvel

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Twentieth Century Medical Marvel...................................4 British Pie Week...............................................................8 Transforming Pets’ Behaviour.........................................12 New Trends for Spring/Summer 2021............................14 St. Francis’ Children’s Society..........................................17 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe.........................................19 Drinks: Loving Gin..........................................................20 Applying for a Mortgage? Be Prepared!.........................23

Keeping Kids Fit

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Get your business off to a flying start this year

Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £30.00 +VAT per month Editorial: Catherine Rose, Tracey Anderson, Wood Green, Jennie Billings, Nick Coffer, Trevor Langley, Pippa Greenwood, RSPCA, Hannah Merry Wade, AHM Installations and Kate Duggan

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

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

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

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

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History

By Catherine Rose

Twentieth Century Medical Marvel The last century saw some incredible developments in the field of medicine, including the ongoing identification of viruses, the discovery of DNA and perhaps one of the most important of all, the invention of penicillin, an invaluable weapon in the fight against bacterial infections.

The antibiotic era truly began eighty years ago in 1941, when the US developed widespread availability of penicillin. Although invented by Alexander Fleming in 1928, previously it had only been available in small batches.

It seems hard to imagine a life without antibiotics now, but prior to its development people would routinely die from even minor bacterial infections.

Antibiotics are produced from bacteria and fungi compounds that attack microbes, including other bacteria. But before Fleming’s discovery, human

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beings were already benefitting from antibiotics although they did not necessarily fully understand or appreciate why.

Traces of Tetracycline, possibly absorbed through diet or natural remedies, have been found in the skeletons of the Nubian people in Sudan dating back as early as 330AD and the ancient Egyptians would place poultices made of mouldy bread onto infected wounds, demonstrating that they knew this helped curb infection and promote healing.

In the late nineteenth century, a German physician named Paul Erlich noted that the newly invented chemical aniline dyes could stain and even destroy some bacteria but not others. This led him to believe that there must be chemical substances that could kill certain microbes while leaving others unharmed.

He subsequently used a chemical called

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arsphenamine to successfully treat syphilis although he called this treatment ‘chemotherapy’ (as in chemical therapy) rather than an antibiotic.

In 1928, Alexander Fleming was Professor of Bacteriology at St Mary’s Hospital, London when he discovered penicillin quite by accident.

He had been culturing a type of bacteria known as Staphylococcus, which causes sore throats, abscesses, and boils amongst other infections.

On returning from a holiday in Suffolk, Fleming discovered that one of his petri dishes had been left uncovered and had developed patches of mould.

Fleming noticed that there were no bacteria growing around the mould in this dish. The mould was called Penicillium notatum (today it is known as Penicillium rubens).

Fleming began to investigate further and discovered that compounds produced by this mould could kill not only Staphylococcus but a wide variety of bacteria. However, the compounds were unstable and he was only able to produce them in tiny quantities.

Fleming carried on his research but it wasn’t until eleven years later in 1939 that a team at Oxford University began work to purify and make penicillin available as a therapeutic drug. In order to do this, they had to produce gallons of mould filtrate.

In 1940, one of the Oxford team, a pathologist and pharmacologist named Howard Florey, demonstrated how mice could be protected from Staphylococcus bacteria by using penicillin. And in 1941, the first human being was injected with the drug: a fortythree-year-old policeman named Albert Alexander, who had developed serious abscesses after scratching himself while pruning roses.

Unfortunately, after making an initial recovery, Alexander died. But by the time Fleming successfully treated a patient named Harry Lambert in 1944 for

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streptococcal meningitis, penicillin was proven.

With Britain absorbed in the war effort and research virtually on hold, Florey realised that any development potential lay with the US pharmaceutical industry.

Following research into stabilisation of the drug, and large-scale production through collaboration with the chemical and fermentation industries in America, a meeting was organised by the Committee on Medical Research (CMR) with the top pharmaceutical companies: Pfizer, Merck, Squibb and Lederle.

The meeting went favourably and production of penicillin began in earnest, but it wasn’t an easy process. Pfizer’s John L. Smith summed it up by saying: “The mould is as temperamental as an opera singer, the yields are low, the isolation is difficult, the extraction is murder, the purification invites disaster, and the assay is unsatisfactory.”

Despite this, Pfizer succeeded in opening the first major manufacturing facility for penicillin on 1st March 1944.

By the end of the war, penicillin had been successfully used on wounded soldiers from the front line and was being dubbed ‘the wonder drug’.

In 1945, Fleming, Florey and biochemist Ernst Chain (their Oxford colleague) received the Nobel Prize for Medicine for the discovery and development of the first antibiotics.

The twentieth century was the golden age of antibiotics, with different spectrums subsequently being discovered, adapted, and used successfully, such as Streptomycin (an organism found in soil) and Cephalosporins.

However, there is a downside. Not all bacteria succumb to antibiotics and it is said that widespread use has led to resistant bacterial strains such as MRSA. Today, antibiotics have to constantly evolve to try and tackle this.

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Time of Year

British Pie Week March 1st – 7th It’s hard to beat a good pie. Savoury or sweet there is something blissful about cracking the crust to release the fragrant contents within.

Did you know that three quarters of the British population say they eat a pie at least once a month and the British pie industry is worth £1.2bn per year!

But when did the pie come to Britain?

The earliest reference to pies as ‘pyes’ seems to be in the 1300s. These first pies were savoury, meat-only affairs, and the pastry case was not for eating, it was there as a form of crockery and to help preserve the contents for longer, particularly on sea voyages.

Pie bases went by the unappetising name of coffins (‘coffyns’).

By medieval times pies had become something of a centrepiece for banqueting tables. Cooks became competitive and enormous pie cases were made which could contain anything from live actors to musicians. These were definitely for entertainment only and not baked for consumption, though the ‘coffyn’ reference would have added a certain frisson to proceedings.

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By Tracey Anderson

Shakespeare certainly used this ‘coffyn’ reference as a dramatic device. In his play Titus Andronicus, Titus has two male characters baked into a pie as a punishment. The pie is then served to their mother!

Harsh!

The nation’s favourite apple pie first materialised in the 14th Century. Another literary heavyweight, Geoffrey Chaucer published a recipe, which also contained figs, raisins, and pears, but no sugar, as it was too much of a luxury ingredient at the time. My personal favourite pie, the cherry pie, is said to have first been created for, and served to Elizabeth l. I shall be forever grateful to her majesty.

The pie continues to evolve, taking influences from other cultures. After watching The Bake-Off last year I tried my hand at Hermine’s Moroccan Tagine Pasties and Mark’s Aloo Gobi and Paneer Pasties. They were both delicious, but in UK polls the apple pie is consistently voted the favourite sweet pie while steak and ale tops the savoury charts. I do love a traditional steak and ale pie and there is a great recipe enclosed this month......Happy Pie Week.

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Cloudy2Clear, A Local Service With A Smile.

I think we can all agree that seeing the back of 2020 was a welcome event for each and every one of us, and we can now hopefully march into 2021 with renewed positivity and optimism.

One thing is for sure though, there have also been some heart warming positives that we can take out of last year. It has often been said that we can only really get to know one another and realise what is truly important in times of crisis. I think few would argue that in this case what has proven to be important is local community spirit.

When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Stephen Moon it became clear that these values have been held dear for a number of years. Since starting

the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money.

The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the unit has failed. Stephen commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.

All C2C employees operate a strict social distancing policy.

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Local News

Transforming pets’ behaviour Services offered by Wood Green, The Animals Charity have helped thousands of pet owners in the past year. Going beyond the rehabilitation and rehoming of dogs, cats and small animals, Wood Green is also able to help people resolve any petrelated queries or concerns.

These come in many different forms, like one worried owner who called Wood Green after her cat, Toby, began acting aggressively towards her. A vet had ruled out any medical concerns, so the charity’s Behaviour & Training Specialists stepped in.

Wood Green discovered that another cat had moved in nearby, which meant the garden was no longer a safe space. Giving Toby outdoor access was vital for his wellbeing, so his owner was advised to block up the cat flap and let him out via the back door instead – meaning Toby could check the path was clear and venture out confidently.

Sam Prior, Cat Advisor at Wood Green (pictured above), said: “Since making these seemingly minor changes, Toby is back to his old self – no longer hiding indoors and redirecting frustration onto his owner. The key to changing our pets’ behaviour is understanding

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their emotional state, and what could be causing problems, which we can help with.”

If you are struggling with any pet-related issue, however big or small, please contact Wood Green as soon as possible. The charity may be able to offer a solution through advice, behavioural support or even financial support. If you are no longer able to care for a pet, their friendly team can help with that too.

Talk to Wood Green’s team on 0300 303 9333 or visit woodgreen.org.uk

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House of Colour

What’s coming up this season, new trends for Spring/Summer 2021 There has been something of a shift this season as a result of the pandemic with more restrained options being presented. There has also been an emphasis on the longevity of designs, rather than a rapid change for each season; evolution rather than revolution, with sustainability coming more to the fore..

Styles are echoing some of the 1990s looks this season with clean minimalist looks and more unisex designs as well continuing themes from last season. You may already have items that will still be contemporary.

• Sharp lines associated with the 90s are coming through along with transparent fabrics and thin straps. These are contrasted with chunky chains (continuing from winter) and cut out detailing.

Strong blazer lines with sharp shoulder pads are also in evidence and add up to some key options for those who need a more striking look, with angles in their clothing.

• A theme we have seen for a few seasons is the emphasis on metallics and leather. From silver to warm tones of gold and bronze • Some 70s boho chic is also continuing this season with crochet and fringing. Romantic dresses with transparency and flow can also be seen. Volume in sleeves will also be accenting dresses and tops in this season. Shirred edging and ruffles are also combining for a romantic, feminine elegance look.

• Classical tailoring is being reimagined this season blurring the lines between formal and casual. The ‘work from home’ items are being updated to introduce some cleaner lines with a more relaxed aesthetic. Those who favour a formal classic jacket will be able to take this trend on.

• An escapism feel for summer is being echoed with brighter colours, and vibrant patterns in easy silhouettes. Designers reflecting a desire to lift the mood in our clothing styles.

• Colour – this season has focussed on naturally derived colours. Neutral tones of camel, peach and rose are featuring as are the complete range of greens from apple sage to ice green. Blue is continuing to feature in all its hues heavily this season and particularly French navy. Highlighter brights make an appearance to add pops of colour. Optic white (for those who can wear optic white…) can be worn top to toe this coming summer!

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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Local News

St. Francis’ Children’s Society In the UK, almost 3,000 children are in need of an adoptive family, but the number of adoptions in England has fallen by a third in the last four years. Milton Keynes adoption agency St. Francis’ Children’s Society is encouraging people from all walks of life to consider whether they could adopt a vulnerable child.

There are very few circumstances which will completely rule you out from becoming an adoptive parent. In the UK, you can adopt if you are: • childless or already have children • married or in an enduring heterosexual or same sex relationship • single • heterosexual or LGBTQ+ • under or over 40 • of any or no religious faith • of any race or cultural background • employed or not • a homeowner or renting You can adopt if you’re married, in a long-term relationship or single. Caroline is a single, black adopter who became a mum with the help of SFCS. “I always knew I wanted children. It didn’t happen for me naturally, so I decided to adopt.

I’m divorced, but I work as a social worker, so was aware that you can be single and still adopt. Being a single parent is the hardest thing that I ever did, but it’s also the best!”

Adopters can be of any or no religious faith.

Children who are waiting for adoption come from many different backgrounds, cultures and religions, and SFCS accordingly welcomes adopters from all walks of life. Mahmood and Parveen are Muslim adopters whose faith was particularly important when it came to their decision to adopt with SFCS. “One of the reasons for us deciding to adopt was our religion,” says Mahmood. “Islam puts a lot of emphasis on helping other people and the Holy

Quran specifically mentions helping orphans or those who do not have parents for any reason.

Adoption was something that we discussed when we first met many years ago, even before we tried for natural children of our own.”

You don’t need to own your own home or be ‘rich’ to adopt, either. Your financial stability and moneymanagement abilities will be discussed during your assessment, but being unemployed, on a low income or on benefits will not automatically rule you out from adopting.

You can also adopt whether you’re heterosexual or LGBTQ+. Emma and Zoe are a same sex couple who adopted siblings with the help of SFCS. Emma says: “If adoption is something that you feel is right for you, then go for it. Being LGBT is not something that should ever hold you back from adopting. What is important is that you have enough space physically and emotionally for a child. Our boys really don’t care that they have a Mummy and a Mama; they are safe and they are loved.”

If you can provide a safe, stable, loving home for a child or children who need it, the chances are you can adopt. Visit www.sfcs.org.uk and click on I’d Like To Adopt to learn more and begin your journey towards growing your family.

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Food & Drink

Chuck-in-the-oven Baby Back Ribs I recently made the mistake of posting a similar recipe to this one on a local Facebook group. I wanted to publicise the fact that I’d used ribs from our local butcher and was proud of these deliciously tender and ribs. As well as the praise, the comment section was filled with “Rib Kings” who were seemingly furious at the recipe’s simplicity. I know there are 12, 24 and 36 hour versions for ribs, but these are truly the “chuck-in-theoven” easy version. And they are absolutely wonderful.

Ingredients You’ll need one full rack of baby back ribs, preferably with back membrane removed Store-cupboard marinade: 4 squirts ketchup 3 squirts honey Really good glug dark soy sauce Drizzle of oyster sauce Drizzle of sesame oil 1 tsp garlic powder 2 tbsp xiao xing wine

Serves 2 people

1. Mix all the marinade ingredients together. You can be pretty relaxed about the exact quantities. Save a little for later and rub the rest all over the ribs.

2. Pop them in a non-stick baking dish, add a little water to the base and cover with foil.

3. Bake at 130C for 4 hours, basting both sides every hour or so. You can always add a little water as you go to get the best bits off the bottom.

4. Uncover for the last 20 minutes and baste with the leftover sauce from earlier.

5. Carefully remove them from the pan and leave them to rest, wrapped in foil, for 15 minutes.

6. Cut them up and serve them immediately. The meat will be literally falling off the bone.

BBC Three Counties Radio presenter and cook, Nick Coffer To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Food & Drink

Drinks: Loving Gin Gin is a (worldwide) favourite, for many. The base flavour is from juniper berries and, today, numerous flavoured gins can be located. Gin is a most popular part of many cocktails, too.

Multi award-winning THUNDERFLOWER Gin is a small-batch, craft gin produced using the traditional London Dry method. The several botanical flavours, that include Macedonian juniper, English coriander, cardamoms, pink peppercorns, liquorice, angelica root, plus elderflower, sage and others, are extracted by vapour infusion. Dartmoor spring water, is then added to the final spirit.

Following a lengthy experimentation and development period, the eventual recipe was agreed upon, by Dominic and Anicca O’Nions and the full-bodied, spicy London Dry gin was finally created. The attractive bottles are presented with much pride. Following the popularity, since launch, production has had to be increased to meet demand, from their distillery in Teignmouth, Devon. All bottles are hand-signed.

THUNDERFLOWER DRY GIN (42% vol) is a small-batch, craft gin and (in my opinion) very worthwhile locating.

Made in the traditional London Dry method and using a ‘one-shot’ distillation process, with botanical flavours extracted, by vapour infusion, Dartmoor spring water complements the production, perfectly. Smooth and with an excellent body, this gin is balanced superbly and the palate enjoys a sensation, to the end.

THUNDERFLOWER FIRE-SHIP (58% vol) has to be experienced, to be believed! This powerful production has a story that relates to the Fire Ships that were used in naval warfare. These wooden ships were set alight, then steered and aimed, whilst ablaze, into the fleet of the enemy.

THUNDERFLOWER FIRE-SHIP 58 is known as ‘Navy Strength’ and, again, is distilled in small batches, utilising the London Dry method and vapour infusions to great advantage, with Dartmoor spring water being added.

For a perfect ‘match’, to the aforementioned gins, FRANKLIN & SONS LTD (Est 1886) Natural Indian Tonic Water is a recommended addition (www.franklinandsons.co.uk). The blend of sparkling spring water, natural botanical flavours, plus quinine and cinchona bark extract, pairs extremely well indeed, with the THUNDERFLOWER productions, which are truly a great addition to any gin enthusiast’s collection.

ThunderFlower Ltd. Tel: 44 (0) 1626 374 055 E-mail: hello@thunderflower.co.uk www.thunderflower.co.uk

As always, Enjoy!

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Business gone slow?

Let us help!

Are you returning to higher education this year and starting a course in September or October?

Do you live in post codes SG1 or SG2?

Did you know that you can apply to the Betty Game Opportunities Trust for a grant towards the cost of books, equipment, travel etc? And the good news is that it’s a grant – not a loan!

The Trustees look forward to receiving your application – be first in the queue.

Further information about the Trust and how to apply for a grant is available on our website www.bgot.org.uk or email BGOT2015@gmail.com

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Finance

Applying for a mortgage? Be prepared!

If you applied for a mortgage in 2020 you faced an even longer wait than usual to get a decision thanks to an unprecedented backlog after the initial lockdown. That may slowly return to normal this year but it’s still worth taking every possible step to speed up the process. These are some of the best ways to avoid unnecessary delay.

Your Finances Be ready to answer questions about your income and your fixed or regular outgoings. Lenders need to know how much you are committed to spending each month outside of your mortgage and if you’d manage if interest rates rose.

Make sure you know the dates of any time you were under the coronavirus furlough scheme. If you’re still on furlough, check if you have a confirmed return-towork date.

Check your credit reports at all three UK agencies: Equifax, Experian and Transunion. Look for any errors, for example if you have a closed credit account listed as still active.

Paperwork at the Ready If you use self-assessment, make sure your tax filings are up to date. You may be required to prove that your latest filing has been submitted and accepted before the lender will accept the relevant figures. If you applied for any government assistance such as the Self Employment Income Support Scheme, make sure you have up-to-date business accounts showing whether or not you are back to sustained profitable trading.

Have proof that you have the funds for your entire

deposit. If the money isn’t simply savings, you’ll likely have to provide bank statements showing it arriving in your account to fulfil money-laundering regulations. If it’s a gift, for example from a family member, they’ll usually have to provide bank statements showing they’ve either had it for a certain period or that it came from a legitimate source.

They may also have to sign a form confirming it is a gift rather than a loan and that they disclaim any right to ownership of your property. Make sure they are happy to do both of these and have any documentation in place.

Double-check all paperwork, including names, addresses and dates of birth. In particular, make sure the spelling of names is correct, hyphenated names are listed correctly and middle names are either included or excluded consistently. Any mismatches can throw a spanner in the works and cause annoying delays.

For all documentation you need to supply, check whether you need originals or if a photocopy or scan is acceptable. Check also whether any copies need to be certified as genuine and if so, where you can get certification.

Using a Broker One of the best things you can do is consider using a mortgage broker. They’ll be able to suggest specific mortgages where you stand the best chance of acceptance, removing the wasted time of an unsuccessful application. They’ll also save time by completing the application using their professional experience to avoid any errors or omissions.

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Gardening

By Pippa Greenwood

Get Sowing With the seed-sowing season upon us in earnest, now is the time to buy seeds from your local garden centre or a reputable online UK seed supplier. At the same time buy some seed-sowing or multipurpose compost and some small seed trays and get sowing!

Heated propagators are not essential, but they will dramatically increase the range of plants you can grow.

If you do use one, remove the seedlings when they appear then grow them on somewhere with plenty of natural light and, often, a fair degree of warmth.

A common problem is algae covering the surface of the compost when you sow slow-germinating seeds.

Using a freshly opened bag of compost and mains water reduces the chance of algae getting into the seed tray, and make sure your watering can is really clean. A thin layer of vermiculite on the surface of the compost can also help.

Seeds come in an amazing array of shapes and sizes.

Tiny seeds like begonias and lobelias must be more thinly spread or a congested thicket of seedlings competing for light, food, water and space that is more prone to diseases will result. Buy yourself some fine horticultural silver sand, make sure it is thoroughly dry and then mix the seed from the packet in about half a teaspoonful of sand before you sow. Play sand used in children’s sand pits works well too.

I always recommend sowing seed into compost before you wet it and then, once the seeds have been sown, water the seed tray or pot by standing it in the sink or in a tray of water, with the water about 1cm in depth.

This will allow the moisture to be taken up without disturbing the seeds’ position.

Prick seedlings out when they are large enough to handle, but take care. Wait until there are the two seed leaves (larger, chunkier and differently shaped from the true seedling leaves) plus a pair of true seedling leaves.

With tiny seedlings I tend to transplant or prick them out in blocks, gently easing them apart slightly as I pop them into their new compost. Make sure the compost is moist but not saturated to minimise root damage.

Use a small dibber (or a pencil) to carefully ease the roots out, handling the top part of the seedling by the seed leaves, never by the stem. Make sure you put the seedlings into their new home immediately and water them in from the base, so that the compost and its moisture are in close contact with the fine roots.

At Pippa’s website (www.pippagreenwood.com) you’ll find stylish cloches, practical and pretty plant supports, the fantastic SpeedHoe, gardening tools, Grower Frames, signed books and the ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa’ system. Or book Pippa for a gardening talk at your gardening club.

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Travel

Discovering the Scottish Highlands If you’re on the hunt for a staycation closer to home instead of your usual holiday abroad, the Scottish Highlands should definitely be on your radar.

Imagine awe-inspiring landscapes, towns rich in culture, fluffy Highland cows, centuries of history and castles straight from a fairy tale – all topped off with a dose of Scottish hospitality. We’ve put together some of the top things to do on a staycation in the beautiful Scottish Highlands.

1. Hike or ski Ben Nevis A hiker’s paradise in summer and a skier’s playground in winter, the UK’s highest peak is a year-round magnet for keen outdoor types.

Nevis Range is the Scots’ favourite ski resort in winter, but its panoramic mountain views make it worth a visit during summer too. Take a cable car there to enjoy hikes of varying degrees or tackle the seven-hour trek to Ben Nevis’s peak!

While exploring Ben Nevis, base yourself at nearby Fort William, a fantastic jumping off point for exploring the Highlands’ glens and mountains.

2. Visit Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness Lose yourself in the medieval history of Inverness’s ruined castle, dating all the way back to the thirteenth century. The castle also sits on the banks of the iconic Loch Ness, making the pair a must-visit for anyone travelling to the Scottish Highlands.

Book a fascinating tour around Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness to learn about their role in Highlands history, keeping an eye out for the mythical monster rumoured to roam these waters…

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3. Spend some time on the Isle of Skye Scotland’s crown jewel, the Isle of Skye is the largest and arguably the most beautiful island of the Inner Hebrides, with spectacular moors, rocky valleys, dramatic mountain ranges and white sandy beaches.

Admire the Old Man of Storr, take a dip in the turquoise waters of magical Fairy Pools, walk along the cliff front to Neist Point Lighthouse and hike the Quiraing, drinking in the outstanding scenery.

4. Go hiking in Glen Coe Glens are deep, narrow valleys that are synonymous with beautiful scenery, and Glen Coe is one of Scotland’s finest.

Carved out centuries ago by glaciers and volcanic explosions, Glen Coe’s beauty has made it the star of many famous films, including Skyfall and the Harry Potter series. If you don’t fancy exploring on foot, the A82 highway cuts straight through the verdant valley. Make time for plenty of stops – the scenery is out of this world!

5. Explore Britain’s biggest national park Covering 1,748 square miles, Cairngorms National Park is twice the size of the Lake District and cradles five of the UK’s six highest summits.

You could easily spend days exploring the mountains, lochs, rivers, forests and villages of this mammoth national park, but if you’re short on time don’t leave out a visit to Balmoral Castle – Queen Victoria’s favourite – and a ride on the Cairngorm Mountain Railway. As you explore, look out for the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, the UK’s only free-grazing reindeer!

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Collection & Delivery of Loose Aggregates Building Sand • Sharp Sand • Ballast • MOT Type 1 • 10 & 20mm shingle Top Soil • Granite Dust • Cements • Drainage • EASYjoint • Sleepers

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Pets

Together for Animal Welfare

At a time of change and uncertainty about the future, there are some things that we can depend on. The RSPCA is one of them. For nearly 200 years we have been at the forefront of animal welfare. This will never change. We will rescue and protect animals for as long as they need us.

We have worked hard to compile our “2021–2030 strategy” document that highlights the ways we will remain dedicated to this cause, to 2030 and beyond. It sets out how, in an ever-changing world, we will adapt, innovate and focus over the next decade and beyond, so that we can continue to do what we do. It is a very ambitious strategy that outlines our vision, mission, core beliefs and values.

Our eight bold priorities by 2030 are both critical and achievable to realising our vision and new mission.

1) Reduce neglect, abuse and cruelty to companion animals – including exotic pets – in England and Wales by 50 percent.

2) End the illegal selling of puppies and kittens in the UK. 3) See more than half of all the UK’s farm animals reared to RSPCA welfare standards and encourage people to eat less, eat better by encouraging people to eat less meat, fish, eggs and dairy from low welfare farms and to only choose higher welfare labels.

4) Secure a global commitment to developing, validating and accepting non-animal technologies to replace animal experiments, and put an end to severe suffering for laboratory animals 5) We’ll establish animal protection as a significant UK government goal. We want to see an Animal Protection Commission, legally established as an independent public body.

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6) Achieve statutory powers in England and Wales for RSPCA inspectors under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

7) Secure the adoption by the United Nations of a comprehensive Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare.

8) Inspire a one million-strong movement for animal welfare by 2030, via our new Community Engagement Programme.

We endeavour to meet all of these goals by collaborating with individuals, branches, organisations, communities, colleagues in the welfare sector and governments. We’ll build new relationships and improve existing ones, so that we can reach even more animals and change the way society views animals.

Developing an annual Animal Kindness Index will help us track evolving public attitudes and behaviours, and show us where we need to focus our work.

We know that in order to create a world where all animals are respected and treated with kindness, we need governments, civil society, businesses, communities, families and individuals to share our passion for positive change. From our animal rescuers and carers to our volunteers, from those who donate money or help raise awareness, to those who lead the change through their own acts of compassion, we are all in this together.

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.

Email: info@rspcabedsnorth.org.uk Tel: 01234 266965 / 01234 930304

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Activate! Keeping Kids Fit

Parenting

The National Child Measurement Programme for England (NCMP) includes nearly all children in reception year (aged 4-5) and year 6 (aged 10-11).

According to their statistics 10% of reception age children are obese (not just overweight) and this figure rises to around 20% by year 6.

We’ve spent a year with kids not being in school, and for the most part not being allowed out to play so experts expect this figure to rise. The scientific advice is that children should engage in 60 minutes of physical activity each day and encouraging them to become more active now will help them maintain a healthy weight, improve their general fitness and wellbeing and reduce the risks of serious health problems in the future.

So, what can we do when activities are still restricted?

Be the Example - Children will model the behaviour of their parents. If they see you are active, they are more likely to be active. If they see you watching television, eating jammy dodgers, so will they.

Exercise with them - Go cycling or walking together or put on an exercise DVD and do it together as a family.

Give them chores - Doing a bit of vigorous vacuuming or walking up and down stairs a few times putting laundry away will get the cardiovascular system working.

Play with Your Kids - Play tag or run-around games. Try an egg and spoon race, or Twister…anything to get them (and you) moving.

Be the Parent - We need to encourage healthy behaviours and limit unhealthy ones – sometimes this means making unpopular decisions like limiting your children’s screen time outside of home-school hours. Make these tough decisions for your children but explain why. They may not recognise the benefits immediately, but the idea will percolate and feed into decisions they make for themselves in the future.

By Hannah Merry Wade

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

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“Quality is not expensive, it’s priceless”

Extensions, Refurbishments, Loft and Garage Conversions, Landscaping and General Building Internal and external work with many local references View our testimonials at www.hertfordshirebuilders.co.uk

Loft Conversions

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Architect drawings and planning applications catered for Estimates and ideas FREE

www.hertfordshirebuilders.co.uk Call Richard on 07818 061505 34

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Codeword 1

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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.

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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.

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Call Kevin: 0800 79 99 269 or 07729 490 651 www.drycleanyourdrive.co.uk Email: info@drycleanyourdrive.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Local News COVID-19 - SAFEGUARDING CUSTOMERS & COLLEAGUES

FREE*

Georgia toilet & basin with every bathroom order

Asking for help doesn’t mean you’re a burden Bathing a problem? – we can help

We live in an aging society. There are far more people aged over 65 in the UK today compared to a generation ago, and it’s a fact of life that our needs • Wet rooms • Walk in showers and baths • change as we get older.

Waterproof wall panelling • Slip resistant safety Why then, do we sometimes feel like a burden if we flooring • Grab rails & shower seats • Zero VAT ask for help in our later years? on disabled bathrooms • Discounts for over Age UK did some research into why people struggle 60s SSAFA and Service personnel • Disabled proofEx their bathrooms, but usually our phone calls in later life. They found that older people often feel from• people whowork can no and longergrants carry on safely excluded, or they exclude themselves, from theFacilities come Grants Charity as they are. world around them. This was because of a few things, It’sadvice not just asking for help that puts people off. such as people feeling their lives didn’t hold as much Call for friendly It’sand also the worry that their bathroom will end up worth; feeling that the benefits of makingand a change free survey quote looking clinical, like a hospital bathroom. We can were outweighed by the effort; and not knowing actually create very warm and welcoming designs how to change things. using lovely flooring and tiles.

We all have bad days. But if you’re struggling every www.ahminstallations.co.uk In the last 20 years, we’ve never had anyone say they day with household tasks like paying bills, info@ahminstallations.co.uk cooking or * the didn’t like their fact, people using the bathroom, or your emotions are getting Terms and conditions apply, visitbathroom. our websiteInfor more details.send us letters and emails to say how much they love their better of you, then it’s time to act. new bathroom. It’s an opportunity to refresh and For support and guidance, call Age UK’s Advice Line update one of the most important rooms of your any day of the year on 0800 678 1602 (8am to 7pm). house.

When it comes to help in the home, it’s common for Here’s what some of our customers have said: people only to seek help as a result of a fall, accident “Not only have they done a great job, but they have or near-miss. It’s also common for a spouse, carer or Village 62 x 93 .indd 3 05/02/2021 09 been so kind to my mum who is very fragile both family member to take physically and emotionally at the moment.” Margot action on someone’s “I am extremely pleased with my bathroom. It behalf. exceeds expectations!” Angela At AHM Installations, “To be able to speak to the same person when we fit walk-in baths, calling the office… was very important to me and showers and wetrooms. you dealt with my queries very efficiently.”

We speak to customers Mrs Pearce every day who have had If you’re ready to seek help with your bathroom, the courage to pick up please call our family-run team on 01438 909642. the phone and ask for our guidance. Occasionally we Simon and Julie Symcox, co-founders of AHM Installations help people to future-

01480 275559

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COVID-19 - SAFEGUARDING CUSTOMERS & COLLEAGUES

FREE*

Georgia toilet & basin with every bathroom order

Bathing a problem? – we can help • Wet rooms • Walk in showers and baths • Waterproof wall panelling • Slip resistant safety flooring • Grab rails & shower seats • Zero VAT on disabled bathrooms • Discounts for over 60s SSAFA and Ex Service personnel • Disabled Facilities Grants • Charity work and grants Call for friendly advice and free survey and quote

01438 909642

info@ahminstallations.co.uk www.ahminstallations.co.uk Terms and conditions apply, visit our website for more details.

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HERTS OVEN CLEAN Village 62 x 93 .indd 4

05/02/2021 09:2

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

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

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

Call Richard on 01438 813492 Bring a sparkle to your kitchen today.

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Crossword Puzzle Solution from our February Edition Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Barry Angove, Great Stukeley

February’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

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The Villager Prize Crossword Prize

£25

Across 1 Outermost (7) 5 Six sided objects (5) 8 Turn (5) 9 Woman’s holdall (7) 10 Media notice (13) 11 Relaxed (6) 12 Idiotic (6) 15 Exhibition (13) 18 Not quietest (7) 19 Very angry (5) 20 Perfume (5) 21 Meals (7)

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

16th March 2021 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP The winner will be drawn at random from the correct completed entries.

Down 1 Additional (5) 2 Robbers (7) 3 Amusement (13) 4 Racial group (6) 5 Deep thought (13) 6 Religious text (5) 7 Seen (7) 11 Hugs (7) 13 Not public (7) 14 Commented (6) 16 Small rodent (5) 17 Requirements (5)

Name:

Address:

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

Tel:

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GAS SAFE REGISTERED

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Books

Read your way to a beautiful home Spring is traditionally the time to clean, refresh and beautify your home. If you’re not sure where to start, take inspiration from one of this month’s books.

The Easy Life

By Lynsey Crombie

Most of don’t have ‘cleaning the toilet’ or ‘sorting the cupboard of doom’ at the top of a list of favourite things to do on a Sunday. So why not leave the scrubbing for a bit and curl up with a book instead? The Easy Life will teach you tried and tested methods for a cleaner, more organised home. The focus is on time and energy-saving hacks. There are checklists, handy hints and plenty of down-to-earth advice.

Clean & Green

By Nancy Birtwhistle

Whether you’re trying to be a bit greener this year or just fancy having fewer chemicals around your home, this book could prove invaluable. It’s packed with recipes for DIY cleaning products along with tips on everything from laundry to super-easy oven cleaning. (Who knew chopped up ivy leaves could be used to clean clothes?)

Simplicity at Home

By Yumiko Sekine with Jenny Wapner

Painting & Decorating Services Painting – Interior & Exterior Decorating

If you yearn for a simpler life, this book might be a good place to start. It offers advice for creating a calmer, minimalistic home by following Japanese traditions. There are also meal recipes and guidance on everything from mending ceramics using ‘kintsugi’ to patchworking and selecting plants. A must for fans of Japanese culture.

By Kate Duggan

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I D Decorating

Coving No Job Too Big Or Too Small Fully Insured & Free Estimates Telephone: Ian Dunklin 0790 508 3799

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Local News

Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery wins at the UK Jewellery Awards

Premier Painters and Decorators

Premier Painters and Decorators are a professional, punctual and hard working company delivering outstanding quality of work to our clients in and around Stevenage From wallpaper hanging, feature walls, coving and cornice work. We even clean facias, soffits and guttering. (PVC or Wood) If you would like to take advantage of our services, require a quote or advise please do not hesitate to contact us. Be assured when Premier quote a job there are NO HIDDEN EXTRAS. Private and commercial, exterior and interior painting services.

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

www.premierpd.co.uk

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Independent jewellers across the country took to their laptop’s to honour and support the hardworking independent jewellery sector, where Hertfordshire’s own Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery proudly won ‘Bespoke Jewellery Retailer of the Year’ at Retail Jeweller’s UK Jewellery Awards.

The 2020 awards ceremony was held virtually, with participants encouraged to raise a glass to the hard-hit sector from home. The night brought together the jewellery industry’s finest for a celebration of the hard-working field.

The new category of ‘Bespoke Jewellery Retailer of the Year’ was introduced for 2020, specifically celebrating bespoke retailers. Judges commended Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery, describing them as “a true bespoke jeweller in every sense of the word.”

The acclaimed bespoke jewellers specialise in individual design made possible by a team of qualified designers on hand in every studio. The importance placed into each customer’s story can directly be seen in the Halls Green studio, with each designer’s desk surrounded by personal cards and letters of thanks from their customers.

The panel of judges further commented: “this business was singled out for its steadfast dedication to customer led jewellery, setting the bar for bespoke jewellers in the trade.”

Owner and founder, Harriet Kelsall responded gleefully: “We couldn’t be happier. 2020 has been such a challenging year for everybody, including those of us in non-essential retail. It has been tough but still successful thanks to our amazing, loyal customers and our brilliant, agile and hardworking team.

Harriet went on to say: “This award is such a wonderful prize to win after such a tricky time and we are all even more inspired than ever to keep telling our customers love stories and life stories in the form of beautiful bespoke jewellery.”

The bespoke jewellers have won numerous previous awards for their ground-breaking concept of a working design studio combined with eye-catching retail, including winning ‘Bridal Jewellery Retailer of the Year’ at 2016’s UK Jewellery Awards and ‘Boutique Retailer of the Year’ in 2013.

Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery’s Hertfordshire, Cambridge and Primrose Hill studios are still open to the public for you to see talented designers and goldsmiths hard at work creating beautiful jewellery. www.hkjewellery.co.uk

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