Stevenage Sept 2021 by Villager Mag

VILLAGER The

Sept 2021

and Town

Life

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

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Inside this issue...

Charming Cathedral Cities

Charming Cathedral Cities in the UK...........................................4 Don’t Replace It, Repair It!..........................................................8 Drinks: Make Mine a Crabbie....................................................12 Where should you go to university?.........................................14 Don’t Suffer in Silence..............................................................16 The History of Blackpool Illuminations.....................................19 Cooking with kids.....................................................................21 Seasonal Recipe: Paprika Chicken.............................................22 Cash for Clutter........................................................................24 Buying Outerwear Without Losing Style...................................26 Natural Wonders of the Beauty World......................................29 Don’t Pay Too Much Tax............................................................31

Beautiful Children’s Rooms.......................................................32 Low Maintenance Gardening...................................................35 Prepare for Next Spring............................................................37 Why we have seasons..............................................................40 Wildlife Friendly Back Gardens.................................................42 Tidy Those Toys.........................................................................44 Short Story: A Choice of Kevins.................................................46 Puzzle Page..............................................................................48 A Dream World.........................................................................50 Hybrid SUVs: What’s Available?................................................52 Villager Prize Crossword............................................ 58 Book Review............................................................................61 Useful Numbers.......................................................................63

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Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £30.00 +VAT per month Editorial: Susan Taylor, Trevor Langley, Jayne Grant, Jennie Billings, Kate Duggan, Katherine Sorrell, Caroline Knight, Rachael Leverton, Kate McCarthy, RSPCA and Jackie Brewster

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Staycation

St_Magnus Cathedral Kirkwall

Charming Cathedral Cities

in the UK

The UK is famous for its magnificent cathedrals, welcoming more than eleven million visitors a year. Together, these beautiful structures and the cities they call home offer a fascinating insight into our country’s religious history. Cities and cathedrals are intrinsically linked. Historically, their association began in the 1540s, when Henry VIII created six cathedral towns and gave them all city status by letters patent. Today, however, despite popular belief, not all cities need to have a cathedral in order to become a city; it just so happens that most – even the smaller ones – were built around cathedrals. As a result, the UK is peppered with a handful of unassuming cathedral cities, small in size but brimming with old-world charm. Perfect for summer city breaks and cosy winter escapes, here are just four of our favourite off-the-beaten-track cathedral cities in the UK. Wells, Somerset Whoever said ‘the bigger the better’ has clearly never been to Wells, a tiny medieval city in Somerset. It wouldn’t hold the title of England’s smallest

city without its magnificent cathedral. Standing alongside the grand Bishop’s Palace – the official residence of the Bishop of Bath and Wells since the twelfth century – the pair are a sight to behold. The cathedral’s iconic West Front is adorned with 300 intricate carvings, making it one of the most impressive collections of medieval sculpture in the western world. Away from the cathedral, Wells’ charming cobbled streets, ancient market place and medieval buildings beckon. Visit on Wednesday or Saturday to peruse the farmers’ market’s local produce, before admiring the historical buildings and learning a thing or two at one of the nearby museums. Ely, Cambridgeshire Another small city, dominated by its showstopping cathedral, Ely is a perfect day-trip’s distance away from Cambridge. Naturally, the cathedral is the city’s star attraction. With a history stretching back over 1,300 years, the current structure dates back to 1081, gaining its esteemed cathedral status in the early twelfth century. Since then, it’s seen various additions and restorations. But the cathedral isn’t the only reason to visit. Discover the city’s medieval streets and Georgian houses, stopping for lunch in one of the pretty traditional tea rooms. Or brush up on your history at

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the UK’s only stained-glass museum. Fancy a touch of nature? Take a leisurely walk down the waterside, stopping to watch the narrowboats drift past. If you plan a trip between March and September, you can even hop on a river cruise yourself. You’ll be treated to a fresh angle of the cathedral, not to mention a plethora of birdlife. Ripon, Yorkshire Claiming to be the UK’s oldest city, Ripon is steeped in history and tradition. From the 9pm horn blower – a tradition that dates back 1,100 years – to the outstanding 672 AD cathedral, this is a historian’s paradise. The cathedral is most famous for housing a sacred crypt, built in 672 by Saint Wilfrid, which mindblowingly predates England itself! Adding to this, the cathedral’s West Front has been hailed as one of the most impressive examples of Early Gothic architecture. Cathedral aside, Ripon also boasts a bustling marketplace, a high street of eclectic shops and a fascinating Victorian Workhouse museum. Fountains Abbey is also worth jumping in the car for; just a tenminute drive from the heart of Ripon, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is England’s best-preserved Cistercian monastery. Kirkwall, Scottish Highlands Although not technically a city, Kirkwall is the capital of Orkney, a group of remote islands off the coast of mainland Scotland. Holding the title of the UK’s most northerly cathedral, St Magnus Cathedral dominates the skyline of Kirkwall. Fondly known by locals as ‘Light in the North’, it was built in 1137 by the Viking Earl Rognvald, in honour of his uncle St Magnus who was martyred here.

Brimming with Scandinavian charm, Kirkwall is famous for its Norse roots, having been one of the most important towns during the Viking age. Close to the cathedral, you’ll find Bishop’s and Earl’s Palace – widely regarded as some of Scotland’s finest examples of architecture. The Orkney Museum is also worth a visit; this treasure trove of exhibitions and artefacts paints a fascinating picture of the islands’ thousand-year history. But of course, a visit to Kirkwall wouldn’t be complete without some time by the harbour front. Watch the local fishing fleet head out to sea as you wine and dine in one of the restaurants by the water.

Wells Cathedral

Ripon Cathedral

Ely Cathedral

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Home

Don’t Replace It, Repair It! Last weekend I prepared a nice roast dinner. I seasoned the chicken, popped it in the oven and turned it to the usual temperature. Fans and lights all came on so I left it for a hour to cook. When I returned to check on its progress there was no delicious smell and the chicken still looked a bit anaemic. On closer examination it was completely raw! All the oven dials were set correctly, just no heat. Now I had to buy a new oven! Or did I? There couldn’t be that much inside an oven to go wrong could there? An oven is basically a heater with a thermostat. Surely there must be someone, who could fix these sorts of things, especially in today’s eco friendly, let’s not throw things away society. A little research and a Facebook enquiry led me to Pete and his household appliance repair business. A quick phone call followed I described the problem. He confidently diagnosed a broken heating element. It was going to cost £40 including his callout fees and he’d be over Tuesday. As easy as that. Tuesday came, as did Pete. Half an hour later the oven was back up and running. Pete was very happy to chat about the white goods market. Most problems, it transpires, can be fixed quite easily, and at a fraction of the cost of replacing the appliance. Blocked pipes, burnt-out motors, faulty

sensors, and objects jamming mechanisms are all common faults. Sometimes the repair isn’t as simple, but with a bit of knowledge can still be fixed. For example he’d had a customer lose all the heat in their tumble drier. The heating element was OK, but two capacitors on the circuit board had blown. He was able to replace those (50p each cost price plus his time!!) and his customer was back to having dry clothes again. Pete explained that most appliances get replaced well before they need to be. It’s very easy to get into the mindset of throwing something out as soon as it stops, especially if you contact the official manufacturer repair service and hear their prices. But as long as the rest of the machine is still in good condition, a small amount spent on some new parts, fitted by a qualified engineer can give you years of extra service. So the next time your washing machine refuses to empty the water, or your dishwasher fails to clean the crockery, don’t start browsing the web for the best deals, give your local version of ‘Pete the repair man’ a call. He’ll save you money, keep your appliance out of the landfill sites and save you the hassle of having to learn how to use a new device. He will also drink an unusually large amount of tea and during a half hour visit. Thanks Pete! By Susan Taylor

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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”.

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Food & Drink

Drinks: Make mine a Crabbie

Alcoholic beverages, from beers, lagers, ciders, through wines and liqueurs, to spirits and more, have been consumed and enjoyed for many, many centuries. The whisky industry is doing very well, indeed. With the UK and export markets increasing, whisky, most definitely, can be said to have ‘stood the test of time’. As societies become more affluent, then the requirement for whisky grows, being something of a status symbol, clearly giving signs of a higher lifestyle. For example, it is reported that in China, people are enjoying Scotch whisky in western-style bars and it has become a growing trend. My quest, on this occasion, was to locate whiskies which I find interesting and satisfying. John Crabbie & Co have been purveyors of wine and spirits since 1801. John Crabbie and his family owned a lot of property in Leith, north of Edinburgh and exported around the globe. Providing fine, single malt Scotch whiskies was John Crabbie’s objective in life. Several whiskies are within the Crabbie range. Yardhead Single Malt is so named because of the original site in Leith. The Crabbie 12 year old Speyside Single Malt whisky is hugely popular and produced utilising bourbon casks, to great advantage. The bouquet is most enticing and the smooth, well-balanced mouthfeel continues the delight, with an excellent body that has superb depth and a richness that follows for the palate’s pleasure, having fruity and vanilla overtones. Other Crabbie whiskies include 8 year old and 12 year old productions, plus 15 year old Highland Single Malt. 40 year old Speyside Single Malt (44.5% vol) and 50 year old Islay Single Malt (46.5% vol) are destined for the ‘top table’, most certainly, I suspect. Stockists of Crabbie whiskies include supermarkets, independent wines/drinks retailers, bars, restaurants and they can be purchased online, too. It is always exciting and very satisfying to find whiskies that are fresh and have interest, with a good nose and flavour. The flavour and finish, on the palate, having great importance – then duly noted and remembered! John Crabbie & Co, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 5QN. Tel: 44 (0) 151 480 8800 www.crabbiewhisky.com

As always, Enjoy!

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RACE WEEKEND SATURDAY 2 & SUNDAY 3 OCTOBER 2021

Classic racing cars and motorcyles will thunder down the runway at the Shuttleworth Sprint on Sunday and on the air show day Saturday the finest racing aircraft of the period, including the winning de Havilland DH88 Comet, will celebrate Richard Shuttleworth’s racing career in the 1930s.

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Education

Time to Choose?

By Jayne Grant

Where should you go to university?

If you’re a student entering Year 13 you may be trying to narrow down your choice of university. It can be quite a task because there are so many. Even if you know what you want to study - chemical engineering, maths, architecture, medicine, music etc., different universities can have radically different approaches. Here are some points to consider. Course and Contact Hours - How much tutor contact do you want or need? Do you want a more conventionally academic course, or would you prefer something more practical and hands on? Scholarships - These can be awarded for a variety of reasons: academic excellence, music, and sports are most common. The good news is that you don’t have to be studying music, or sports as a subject, just willing to perform on behalf of the university. Bursaries - If you grew up in the care system or come from a background where parental finances are strained, universities may offer a financial incentive for you to attend. Modules - You can usually check course modules online. Do they look interesting? You don’t want to end up studying something you hate for a year. Placements - Are there any placements associated with your course? Are they compulsory? Whereabouts in the course do they fall? Are they paid? The Student Halls - Are there halls and are they near the university? Not having to negotiate transport and bus timetables can be a bonus when there are so many other new skills to learn. Student flats can be great, but in the first year when you don’t know anyone it can be daunting organising bill-sharing and rent payments on top of everything else. Consider location; rents in London and the South can be considerably higher than other parts of the UK. Societies - What are you into? Some unis are famous for their theatrical societies, others for their sports facilities, sailing clubs, choral societies, or orchestras. If you have a hobby you are passionate about there will be a university society for you. Nightlife - If you’re the nightclub type you might want to make sure you’re going somewhere with a good night scene. People assume all universities have this, but some are situated on isolated campuses, and you might need to take this into consideration. Local Area - If you like to get out hill walking at the weekends then London might not be the best choice of city. But if you love art galleries and theatre trips it might be the perfect place. If you love to sail or sea kayak, then you might like to consider universities near the coast. Do you want easy access to a gym? A swimming pool? Dance studio? Is your chosen uni where you think it is? - Think I’m joking? I grew up in Warwick and every year without fail we had lots of people wandering around the castle area asking where Warwick University was. They were always surprised when we said, ‘Coventry!’ How far away from home is it and are there are good transport links? - If you want to pop home now and then, you might not relish a nine-hour bus ride. Going to open days is a great idea, to get a first-hand feel of where you could be staying. This year open days should be happening again, so go to a few, and trust your gut.

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Health

Don’t Suffer in Silence The ability to hear is one of our most important senses, enabling us to connect to and make sense of the world. It’s the brain’s main connection to what’s happening around us and our hearing is always on duty, 24 hours a day, every day. It’s a sense we tend to take for granted, yet ear problems can develop at any time due to blockages or infections. Here, we look at some of the common causes of ear discomfort. Earwax build-up Earwax is produced inside your ears to keep them clean and free of germs. This usually passes out of the ear harmlessly but sometimes too much wax can build up and lead to blocked ears. It’s a very common problem and can often be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) drops. Some people naturally produce a lot of earwax leading to regularly blocked ears. Other factors that can increase the risk of too much wax building up include: • Producing naturally hard or dry earwax • Having narrow or hairy ear canals • Getting older, as earwax becomes drier with age If you have a build-up of earwax, you may experience symptoms such as: earache, hearing loss, tinnitus, itchiness, vertigo or develop an infection. Pressure in your ears Your sinuses and ears are closely connected so when you have sinus congestion, this can lead to pressure in your ears. Having clogged sinuses can lead to pain, dizziness, and a muffled sensation. Treating the congestion in your sinuses is the first step. Try using

a nasal saline decongestant spray or hold a warm, moist muslin cloth to your face – this can help to ease the pressure and discomfort. Drink plenty of fluids too, as staying hydrated can help to keep nasal mucus thin. Swimmer’s ear Despite the name, you don’t need to have been in the pool to get this! It has the medical name otitis externa and is an infection of the ear canal. Swimmer’s ear is usually caused by bacteria, although it can sometimes be brought on by a virus or fungus. Symptoms include itching in the ear, pain, and trouble hearing (sound may seem muffled as your ear canal swells). You might also experience fluid draining out of the ear. Prescription ear drops are the most common treatment for this condition. Hearing loss This often develops gradually with age, although it can also be caused by repeated exposure to loud noises. General signs of hearing loss include misunderstanding what is being said to you, asking people to repeat themselves or regularly watching TV with the volume turned up higher. There are a number of treatment options and recommendations will depend on the cause of your hearing problems. Who to ask for help? A sudden change to your hearing is likely to need an appointment with your GP. But if you have ongoing problems such as regular earwax build-up, or you have gradual age-related hearing loss, then it’s worth visiting a specialist.

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History

Towards the Light

The history of the famous Blackpool Illuminations Blackpool’s evolution into a popular seaside resort began in the 18th century, when sea air was widely regarded as having health-giving properties, and it became fashionable to take holidays at the coast. In 1781, a road was built that allowed visitors to travel from Manchester to Blackpool by stagecoach, which opened up the seaside town to people from the nearby mill towns of Lancashire, but there was little in the way of entertainment aside from a grass-covered promenade, a bowling green, and a theatre. When the railway line arrived in town in 1846, Talbot Road Station (now called Blackpool North) was built, and holiday makers arrived in their thousands during the ‘Wakes Weeks’, when mills and factories were closed so the machinery could be serviced. In 1863, the North Pier was opened to the public, followed by the Central Pier and Victoria Pier. A large amusement park was built, which eventually became the Pleasure Beach. In 1878, the Winter Gardens were opened, providing indoor entertainment during poor weather. Until 1879 the streets were lit by gas light but in that year the Council devoted the sum of £5000 (around £600000 in today’s money) to experiment with the concept of electric street lighting. On the September 19th in 8 dynamo-electric machines powered by 16 Robey engines were used to power 8 arc lamps on the promenade which emitted the equivalent of 48,000 candles of light in total. Between 70,000 and 100,000 visitors travelled from all over Britain to witness the event, which had been widely reported in the press! The light generated was called “artificial sunshine” and they were most likely the first electric streetlights in the world. In 1912, to mark the first Royal visit to Blackpool a new section of the promenade was opened, called the Princess Parade. It was decorated garlands of 10,000 electric light bulbs. They were so impressive and popular that they were staged again in September of that year and the following year. Unfortunately, the outbreak of the First World War meant they weren’t staged again until 1925. They gradually became more ambitious, including animated attractions, until the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939 once again halted the event. Even after the war restrictions on the use of fuel and decorative lighting meant that the illuminations did not reappear until 1949. Since then, they have been staged every year in the same format. They are switched on at the beginning of September and run for 66 nights. Curiously until 2020

By Susan Taylor

they had never extended into the Christmas period. But last year, in a morale-raising move they ran through till the start of January. It was the first time that the resort was unable to hold a live Switch-On celebration. Instead, a virtual celebration was staged on Friday 4th September. The lights were switched on jointly by local heroes, including a consultant, two nurses, a hospital catering manager, two fundraisers, and a therapy dog and his owner. Each carried an illuminated strip that was attached to the main switch so that they could all play a part in Blackpool’s first ever socially distanced Switch-On. In 2021 the illuminations will again run through until January to help boost the local tourist economy. It’s big, brash, and totally British, and the Blackpool illuminations should be seen by everyone at least once.

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Parenting

Cooking with the Kids Bored of baking fairy cakes? Help your kids’ cooking skills reach the next level with our easy recipes. Top tips before you start This is a great time to start teaching your child about food hygiene and safety. Even toddlers can quickly learn that they need to wash their hands before cooking and not to touch the hob when it’s on. Older children can learn how to use an oven glove and knife, why it’s important to clean surfaces and so on. Do always supervise kids when they’re cooking though. All the recipes should feed four people for lunch or dinner. Pepper and tomato pasta Ingredients • Half an onion • Three large red or yellow salad peppers • Two cloves of garlic • One tablespoon of olive oil • One carton of passata • One tin of chopped tomatoes • A pinch of dried basil • Approx. 400g of dried wholemeal spaghetti • Cheese to sprinkle on top Method • Chop the onion, peppers and garlic. Warm the olive oil on a medium heat in a large saucepan. Add the chopped vegetables and lightly sauté for a few minutes. Add the passata, tinned tomatoes and dried basil. Pop the lid on and leave to simmer on a low heat for 15 minutes. • Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in a large pan of boiling water for 10 minutes (or as long as it says on the packet). • Blend the sauce until smooth and spoon it over the cooked pasta. Add grated cheese if required. If there’s any sauce left, freeze it for another day.

Cheesy egg muffins Ingredients • 8 eggs • 100ml of milk • 1-2 slices of ham • A handful of vegetables, e.g. sliced mushrooms, chopped tomatoes, tinned sweetcorn • Approx. 120g of cheddar cheese Method • Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6. Lightly grease a muffin tin with butter. • Whisk the eggs and milk together. • Tear the ham into small pieces. Add the vegetables and ham to each individual muffin cup. Pour in the eggs and top with grated cheese. • Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes. (Use a skewer or sharp knife to check they’re cooked.) • Eat hot with fries or cold with salad. Cheat’s pizza Ingredients • 2 part-baked baguettes • 4-5 tablespoons of passata (or just use ketchup mixed with a dollop of tomato puree) • Toppings, e.g. shredded ham, cooked sweetcorn, pineapple chunks, pepperoni • Approx. 250g of grated mozzarella or cheddar Method • Preheat oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6. • Cut each baguette in half lengthways. Spread passata on the long cut sides. • Add your toppings, followed by cheese, and pop the pizzas in the oven for 10 minutes.

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Seasonal Recipe

Slow-roasted paprika chicken with lemon and artichokes

Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 2 hours 30 minutes Serves 6

This is such an easy recipe. Everything is simply placed in a roasting dish and slow-cooked in the oven, creating an amazing spicy lemony flavour. Serve leftovers for lunch the following day cold with salad. Ingredients 1 tbsp smoked paprika 1 tsp sumac 3 tbsp olive oil 1 organic chicken, jointed 1 bulb of garlic (separated into unpeeled cloves) Sprig of thyme 2 unwaxed lemons, cut into quarters 150 ml chicken stock Black pepper 1 x 400g can artichoke hearts

1. Pre-heat the oven to 160°C/150°C fan/gas mark 3. 2. Mix together the paprika, sumac and olive oil. Put the chicken pieces into a roasting tin and add the garlic cloves, thyme and lemon quarters. Pour over the paprika oil and rub all over the chicken pieces. 3. Drizzle over the stock and season with black pepper. Cover the dish with foil and cook in the oven for 2 hours. 4. Remove the foil from the roasting tin, add the artichoke hearts and turn the oven up to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6. Cook for another 30 minutes or until the chicken is golden.

Nutrition per serving: 387kcal, fat 27.8g (of which saturates 7g), carbohydrate 1.4g (of which sugars 0.6g), protein 33.2g.

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Special Report

Cash for Clutter eBay used to dominate the online selling market, but nowadays you’re spoilt for choice on where to swap your clutter for cash. So, where are the best places to advertise and how can you make sure you’re getting the right price? Whether you’re moving house, redecorating or just trying to live more minimally, we’ve gathered together some of the best websites and ways to rehome your clutter at a profit.

Top places to sell

From sofas and desks to cars, pets and even rooms to rent, Gumtree has it all. Despite its broad appeal, it mainly specialises in selling second-hand items. Unlike eBay, people use Gumtree to look for items locally, so putting your postcode in the listing is paramount. It’s also best to start with a higher

price, as most Gumtree buyers love to haggle. If you want your ad to get some extra attention, you can put some money behind it, but other than that Gumtree won’t charge you for selling. Paypal take a small cut, but to avoid this you can ask your buyer to pay by cash or bank transfer.

Shpock is a bit like your local car boot sale: cheap, local, and full of surprises. It’s your place to get rid of those smaller items that won’t get much attention on bigger sites like Gumtree or eBay, from cushions to children’s clothes and everything in between. That’s not to say you can’t sell bigger things on there too. It’s completely free to list, unless you want to promote an item. Shpock doesn’t get involved in the payment process either. Once a price has been negotiated, it’s up to the buyer and seller to reach an agreement about delivery and payment.

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Top tips for selling A must-download if you’re into vintage fashion, Depop is the place to sell your unwanted clothes, shoes and accessories. Think vintage, young, trendy and homemade – the quirkier, the better. Listing your items is free, but once an item sells, Depop will charge a 10% fee on the sale price (including the shipping costs). Then there’s also a small PayPal transaction fee to be aware of. However, selling items on Depop can fetch you a high price. With over 18 million users, it’s one of the most popular online marketplaces right now.

Spend time taking good pictures Photograph your items in a well-lit area of your house or garden, and from multiple angles. It’s also a good idea to get photos of any defects, so as not to waste your – or anyone else’s – time.

The more descriptive, the better Pad out your listing with as much information as you can, including dimensions, condition and your reason for selling.

Be honest

Local Facebook selling groups (search for Facebay + your area name) and Facebook Marketplace are hot on eBay’s heels. The best bit is there are no fees, so the profit’s all yours. Like Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace is used to sell locally. This makes it perfect for selling larger items without worrying about shipping. Of course though, one of the most appealing parts of using Facebook Marketplace is that it’s a platform many of us are already familiar with. Keep up to date with friends and family, and clear some space in your house, all from one website!

An item doesn’t need to be in perfect condition to get attention online, but it’s important to be honest from the get-go. Reviews are key to building your online selling profile, so avoid the temptation to skim over any defects in your listing.

Think seasonally Certain items, like garden furniture, will fetch a higher price in the summer, while warm woolly jumpers and Christmas decorations will naturally do better in the winter. Sometimes it’s worth keeping something in the loft a little longer to earn that extra cash.

Similar to Depop, but with a slightly older target audience, Vinted is a huge online marketplace for selling clothes, with millions of users. Unlike Depop, however, upmarket high street brands tend to do better. Bagged a popular Zara handbag that sold out within days? You can probably sell it for twice the price on Vinted! Even better – there are no fees for uploading or selling your items on Vinted either, so what you see is what you get.

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House of Colour

Buying outerwear, activity wear, winter wear without losing style Considerations of practicality often trump any thoughts of style when it comes to wet weather clothing, activity wear and colder weather items. Our desire to be warm and comfortable can often mean any considerations of style are long left behind. These clothes do not often put a spring in our step or enhance our look! I thought I’d give you a few ideas to boost your look and tackle buying those practical pieces we all need. 1) Decide what you need. I know this sound really obvious but our lifestyles can change year on year, so be honest about what you are going to need. Get all those clothes you currently have in this category together and cast a critical eye over them. What is now past its best, could do with renewing or needs some other attention (dry cleaners?). What is missing? 2) Start early. Kick this process off ahead of the season. If you know in advance what you need you have more time to consider the options and find something great rather than buying out of desperation an item ‘that’ll do’ that you subsequently regret and then feel you have to hang on to. You want to feel great in these clothes too! 3) Online research can really come into its own at this stage. If you need serious performance or have some particular requirements get online and again start sooner rather than later. Clothing retailers start getting their first season’s options out early. Don’t just go to your usual option, keep a broad mind. Contact your consultant too to see if they have any top tips for particular brands that might work for you. 4) Colour is key. A neutral or a wow colour will serve you best for investment pieces. You will be confident that it looks fab on you too. It will also work with everything else in your wardrobe. It will also add some style and interest in it’s own right. Plus it will be a boost when you put it on. 5) Styles. Remember there is huge variety out there with new brands coming along all the time so don’t go for the first thing. Does this highly practical waterproof hit any of my style considerations? Does it come in at my waist if that’s what my style needs (they do exist)? Is there an interesting detail that adds something

to it? If you’re not seeing anything great leave it a little while and come back to it. 6) Accessories. If you’re not investing in a new snow proof, rain proof option just yet think about renewing the gloves, hats, etc. in some fab colours. This is where you can add some more personality (and if you’ve done style consultation you’ll know what that could look like) to your look. Again don’t necessarily just opt for the first woolley hat offering warmth that comes your way. Be choosy, would a little felt trilby (they can be waterproof!) actually be more fun and stylish while walking the dog? 7) Don’t compromise. You might be spending a fair amount of time in that winter jacket, why not absolutely love it. We owe it to ourselves. 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-astylist

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Beauty

Natural Wonders of the Beauty World Sometimes, simplicity is best… Aloe vera Aloe is one of my all-time favourite skincare essentials. People tend to think of it as merely a sunburn remedy, but it’s a fantastic hydrator that can be used all over the body. It’s also chock-full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, and it can work wonders on psoriasis and other skin conditions. You can use it direct from a plant (I have several at home), or just buy it in a tub for ease of use. Look for 99%100% pure aloe vera that hasn’t been watered down. (It will contain preservatives.) Try it… as an overnight face mask. Aloe can be a bit sticky and does take a while to absorb, so it’s not ideal for morning use if you’re in a hurry. Instead, I like to use it before bed. Massage it into dry skin and reap the benefits the next morning. Your skin should feel softer, plumper and more hydrated for a fraction of the cost of a normal night cream. Coconut oil Another awesome hydrator, coconut oil has been found to help skin complaints such as eczema and psoriasis. It soothes, calms and moisturises skin. (It also smells delicious.) Coconut oil is a real multitasker as you can use it all over, including your hair, and, of course, you can cook with it. A little goes a very long way, so a £10ish jar will likely last you for several months. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature but melts easily. Try it… as a hair mask. Warm a small amount (around quarter of a teaspoon full) between your hands to melt it. Massage the oil into your hair, wrap it in a towel and leave for half an hour before shampooing out. Lemon Lemon oil contains citric acid, so may help to fade dark spots and brighten skin. It can be quite harsh though, so it’s best not to use it undiluted, and make sure you do a patch test first. A few drops of lemon essential oil in filtered water is a great toner for dull or acne-prone skin. (Just keep it away from your eyes!) That said, I mainly like lemon just for the smell.

By Kate Duggan It’s been used in aromatherapy for generations and is one of the best stress-busting, energy-boosting essential oils around. Try it… as a mood lifting aromatherapy blend. Add a few drops of lemon essential oil and a few of geranium essential oil to water in a diffuser or oil burner. Alternatively, try the Time to Smile blend by Alexandra Kay (£20, www.greenpeople.co.uk), which combines lemon with other uplifting scents such as cedar and peppermint. It smells amazing and really does brighten your mood.

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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

Don’t Pay Too Much Tax There are several HMRC programs that can reduce your taxable income. These aren’t shady scams but rather perfectly legitimate offers from the government, though admittedly ones they don’t always shout about. Marriage Allowance If you are married or in a civil partnership you could get up to £252 a year through Marriage Allowance. That’s where one partner transfers £1,260 of their personal allowance to the other partner, who’ll then pay less in tax. The allowance is only available (and only makes financial sense) if one partner is a basic-rate taxpayer and the other doesn’t pay income tax and you should always crunch the numbers before applying. The person making the transfer (the non-taxpayer) can apply online at www.gov.uk/apply-marriageallowance. The person receiving the transfer (the taxpayer) can’t make the application. All you need to apply is both partners’ national insurance numbers and proof of identity. HMRC will then apply the changes to both partners, either through their tax code or self-assessment. When you apply, you can backdate your claim to cover any of the previous four tax years where you met the criteria. For previous-year claims, HMRC simply sends a cheque or bank payment for the relevant amount to the partner receiving the personal allowance transfer. Once you’ve had an application approved, the personal allowance transfer will remain in place until you cancel it. Working From Home Allowance If you’ve worked at home regularly (even if it’s part-time or a ‘temporary’ arrangement during COVID), you can get tax relief to compensate you for your costs. This tax relief will reduce your taxable income and thus you’ll pay less tax. You can claim it at www.tax.service.gov.uk/claim-tax-relief-expenses/only-claiming-working-fromhome-tax-relief. You have two ways to work out the amount of the relief. One is to calculate the actual extra costs you’ve incurred, which can include a share of utility bills and costs such as office equipment. The other is to take a flat amount of £6 a week, which doesn’t require any evidence of the costs. It’s a small amount but adds up to more than £60 a year just for filling in a short online application. You can also backdate claims to cover two years, though the rate was £4 a week until April 2020. Work Uniform Claims If you’re an employee with a work uniform and pay to clean it yourself, or you pay for repairing work equipment, you can claim tax relief on these costs. The uniform expenses are only for clothes that you have to wear for work and people wouldn’t normally wear outside of work. For example, you couldn’t claim for an ordinary suit. You can claim the actual expenses of cleaning or repairs, but you will need to apply by post and send supporting receipts to HMRC. Alternatively you can claim a flat rate based on occupation. For example, army staff can claim £100 a year, ambulance staff £185 a year and prison officers £80 a year. Full details are at www.gov.uk/guidance/job-expenses-for-uniforms-work-clothing-and-tools.

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Interiors

By Katherine Sorrell

Beautiful children’s bedrooms Why not make your little one’s room as goodlooking as it is practical? Choose coordinating colours and attractive textures, with appealing accessories to complete the look. The priority in any young child’s bedroom is, of course, to ensure it’s a safe, calm and comfortable space in which to sleep and, once they are a little older, a great place to enjoy playing. What are the key ingredients? To start with, a good mattress and a set of well-fitting blackout curtains or blinds will go a long way towards helping them get a full night’s rest. You will also need suitable flooring, excellent storage and flexible lighting. Finally, add interesting furniture and accessories, and brighten up the walls with eye-catching art. The ideal bedroom floor would be soft and cosy, durable, non-slip and easy to mop. While some man-made carpets claim to be washable, they are still susceptible to spills and accidents, and perhaps a more versatile choice would be wooden or laminate floorboards plus a soft rug (with an anti-slip mat beneath). Alternatives include vinyl, linoleum, cork or rubber and, to add extra play potential, why not add a play rug with a printed design such as hopscotch or a racetrack? If you do opt for carpet, look for a

texture or pattern that won’t show the dirt, and ask for a stain-resistant treatment before installation. To encourage children to put things away after themselves, toy and book storage should be plentiful and easy to access. Try to incorporate it into tucked-away spaces such as the alcoves either side of a chimney or below a window, co-ordinating built-in storage with the decorative features of your home as a whole. Low shelving, securely fixed to the wall, plus a variety of boxes or baskets, is ideal; you could install a few higher shelves for items that you would prefer only to be used under supervision. Avoid heavy-lidded, traditional toy chests that could trap tiny fingers, and remember the basic rule of storage: suit the size of the container to the size of its contents. Small plastic lidded boxes are perfect for LEGO, Playmobil and so on, while a large basket is great for soft toys. Don’t forget peg rails, hooks and hanging fabric organisers – all of which are useful space savers – but in your storage choices, try to stick to a limited colour palette or a group of similar textures (the natural, neutral look is fashionable and will stand the test of time) so that the room looks thought-through rather than randomly assembled. Well-designed lighting is essential – bright enough

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to play by in the dim winter months, with a bedside lamp (and maybe one on a desk, too) and some purely decorative extras, such as strings of fairy lights, colour-changing LEDs or a projector lamp. In general, remember always to use the correct wattage of bulb, and position the fitting so that there are no trailing flexes. Inset ceiling lights and high-up wall lights are better than too many floor or table lamps that could get in the way of games and be knocked over. One option is a wireless lamp that you charge up and can then place wherever it’s needed. Avoid pendant shades that reveal the dazzle of a bulb – though a diffuser will conceal the bulb discreetly. For great adaptability, consider a dimmer switch, which can be retro-fitted quite cheaply (though check that your bulb will work with a dimmer, as not all of them are suitable), and smart lights, operated via remote control, an app or even voice commands. In terms of furniture, it’s best to keep larger, more expensive items relatively neutral, so that they last as long as possible as your child grows up. However, if you have the budget, then a special bed makes an amazing centrepiece, and there are some wonderful options, from tepee beds to cars, rockets and high sleepers that look like castles or tree houses. Without crowding the room too much, you’ll want to add a chest of drawers and a small wardrobe, and possibly a low table or a small desk for reading, writing and craft activities. These can be smartly coordinating or second-hand, vintage or repurposed – provided there are no sharp bits or splinters, a lick of paint can brighten up an old piece no end, and will add heaps of character. For quiet play and general lounging, floor cushions, low stools and beanbags are probably a better (and less expensive) idea than miniature children’s sofas and chairs, which are quickly outgrown. When it comes to finishing touches, there are plenty of ways to add pizzazz to plain walls, from

decorative stickers to an entire wall of attractive storage. Oversized images – a mural or an enlarged child’s painting – are full of impact and can set a theme, if you so wish, complementing your furnishings. Add quirky cushions, sweet rugs and interesting lamp shades, and you’ve got an attractive room that’s flexible, functional and – importantly – great fun. 1 This fun tent bed is made from solid pine and MDF, with lookout holes at each end. Kids Teepee cabin bed by Woood, from £399; matching bookcase, £215; both Cuckooland: 01305 231 231; cuckooland.com. 2 Natural colours and textures, with piles of cushions, make a child’s room feel supercomfortable. Nihla bed by Bloomingville, £195; Bloomingville Kesa storage box, £124; Bloomingville Eman sleepy bear basket, £93; all Sweetpea & Willow: 0345 257 2627; sweetpeaandwillow.com.

3 Create a play corner with shelves, desk space and plenty of storage, all at a low level. Bloomingville Moris shelf (on floor), £70; Bloomingville Hubert rattan stool, £50; both Sweetpea & Willow, as above.

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Gardening

Low-maintenance gardening Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

Ask anyone who looks after a garden if they would like a high-maintenance outdoor space and the answer will almost definitely be no. So how do you achieve a garden that is easy to look after. Keep it Simple Start with simple things. Look around to see how potty you have gone over pots - you really don’t want too many. The content within pots and containers requires regular watering by the head gardener and nutrients within the compost depletes within just a few weeks and they require feeding. Plants also require gentle snipping to keep them looking neat and attractive, and to encourage more flowers. If you have shrubs in pots, they might need pruning as well as turning so that each side of the plant receives an equal amount of light. If all this is making you feel exhausted, just keep a few very large containers for certain specimens and make them into a feature. If, however, you aren’t ready to abandon your potaholic habits, group them together so that they can create their own microclimate. Each pot will provide a bit of shade for another and the air around them will enjoy increased humidity. No Mow Next, we come to the lawn, if there is one. You don’t need to mow every week and you could allow the grass sward to grow longer. Welcome weeds and wildflowers into the lawn; it’s far better for wildlife than a monoculture of grass. Provided the lawn looks

vaguely green, it really doesn’t matter if there are daisies, dandelions, moss or most other self-seeded delights amongst the grass. The gentle buzzing of bees is the reward you get for being more relaxed about your green carpet. Lawn edges can be defined by using some sort of edging system that will stop the grass spreading into the flowerbeds. These really do take the stress out of maintaining a neat edge. There are dozens of options, from rustic and durable Corten weathering steel through to rubber, plastic, wood and brick. Keep Weeds in the Dark Ask a gardener about a job that always needs doing and weeds will be high on the agenda. There’s a very simple way to stop weeds growing: cover up your soil! It’s inevitable that nature will send something to infiltrate any little patch of bare ground. So, if you would rather choose your own variety of species to grow in your garden, rather than whatever a passing bird decides to eject, ensure you plant densely. While new plants are establishing, spread mulch onto any bare soil to stop weeds taking hold. Shrubby Heroes Shrubs are generally the best low-maintenance plant of all. Replace any annual planting schemes with shrub beds, but don’t inflict the hedge-cutter ‘blob treatment’ on them. The secret lies in choosing your plants wisely and thus not planting something that grows larger than the space available. You can allow them to grow into their natural form.

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Garden View

By Rachael Leverton

Prepare for next spring September is the time to plan your spring bulb purchases. The best selections always sell out quickly and it’s frustrating when the prettiest crocuses and tulips are not available. If you’re planting bulbs for the first time, or in a new area of the garden it helps to have a colour scheme in mind. In a boy-dominated house (three sons and a husband) I like to give some areas of my garden a more girly theme. Tulips are great for this purpose (and are some of my favourite flowers). Try ‘La Belle Epoque’, which is a frothy peony-flowered tulip with pale coffee petals flushed with pink. I would contrast the texture of its showier blooms with another more traditional tulip, Pink Diamond’ or ‘Apricot Beauty’. If you’d prefer less ‘pretty’ and more drama try the almost-black ‘Paul Scherer’, which should flower in late April or early May and makes a good foil to the aforementioned Apricot Beauty, which flowers at the same time. I garden on quite dry limey soil, and I’ve mentioned before my love affair with Bath Chatto’s planting schemes. Sadly, she died in 2018 but her gardens and trust continue and are well worth a visit. This year on their recommendation I’m trying Ornithogalum pyrenaicum, known poetically as the spiked star of Bethlehem, and more prosaically as Bath asparagus.. It has subtle, green flowers and grows to 50-60cm

tall. It pairs well with silver-leaved plants like Stachys, which grows like a weed in my garden, and best of all, once established you can harvest it like asparagus. I like to plant up a few pots this month, for some late autumn and winter colour. I favour Rust-toned heucheras, paired with miniature grasses such as Carex buchananii; Oxblood-coloured ajuga, silverleaved thymes and small-leaved trailing ivies make great combinations too. I have sempervivums shoved in crevices all over my garden. They are incredibly hardy and will survive all manner of frost and poor weather. We have a lovely sheltered sunny patio with a small table and chairs which is lovely to sit out on even in the winter. A few years ago, I started planting up shallow terracotta trays and a couple of old tin bowls with differing varieties of house leek. I mix one-part horticultural grit to one part peat-free multipurpose compost for the planting mix, and make sure any container has lots of drainage. Handy tip - top dress with grit or stones if you don’t want the birds to start digging around scattering your planting mix and unearthing your plants! I learned the hard way! These little flat planting bowls make a lovely table display and also make wonderful birthday and…erm…Christmas gifts.

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Happy Planning 37

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Special Report

In Season - Why we have seasons September 22nd marks the Autumn Equinox. It’s the end of summer and the start of a new season. But what is a season? We all instinctively know the difference between summer and winter but who decides when they start and end? Are there official dates? Well actually yes. A season is defined as a period of the year distinguished by special climate conditions. The four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter each have their own light, temperature, and weather patterns that repeat yearly. In the UK the winter solstice generally begins on December 21 or 22. This is the day of the year with the shortest period of daylight. Summer begins on June 20 or 21, the summer solstice, the day which has the most daylight of any day in the year. Spring and autumn, begin on days that have equal amounts of daylight and darkness. The vernal, or spring, equinox falls on March 20 or 21, which brings us back to autumn which starts at the end of the month. The seasons of the Northern Hemisphere are the opposite of those in the Southern Hemisphere, which is why in Australia, summer begins in December, winter begins in June and Christmas lunch is served on the beach! Our seasons occur because Earth is tilted on its axis relative to the orbital plane, the invisible, flat disc where most objects in the solar system orbit the sun. Earth revolves on its axis, which is an invisible line that runs through its centre, from pole to pole. In June, when our Northern Hemisphere is tilted toward the sun, the sun’s rays hit it for more of the day than in winter, which means we receive more hours of

daylight. In December, when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the sun, there are fewer hours of daylight. But our four-season year is not experienced all over the globe. Four seasons only occur in the midlatitudes, which are places that are not too near the poles or Equator. The further north (or south) you go within these mid-latitudes, the bigger the differences in the seasons. For example, Helsinki in Finland sees a full 18.5 hours of daylight in the middle of June whereas in mid-December it barely gets 6 hours. Athens in Greece however in the far south of Europe, has a smaller variation, with 14.5 hours of daylight in June and 9.5 hours in December. Places near the Equator experience little seasonal variation and receive the same amount of daylight and darkness throughout the whole year. These places remain warm year-round and typically have just two seasons, a rainy season, and a dry one. Polar regions do experience seasonal variation, although they are obviously colder than most other places on the planet. Near the poles, the amount of daylight changes dramatically between summer and winter. In Barrow, Alaska, the northernmost city in the U.S., it stays light all day long between mid-May and early August, while in winter the city is in total darkness. I love the fact we have four seasons in the UK but just a small change in global temperature could cause the seasons to shift or become more extreme. We can’t take our wonderful seasons for granted. By Kate McCarthy

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Pets

Wildlife Friendly Back Gardens

How wildlife friendly is your back garden? Wildlife can struggle during particularly warm spells and heatwaves. This might be from a lack of water or suddenly having limited food supplies. As humans we enjoy a cold drink or dipping our feet in a paddling pool to cool down. So do our garden birds, pollinators and hedgehogs. Providing fresh, clean drinking and bathing water, along with some shade will help immensely. What can you do specifically? Planning is a good idea in order to create an attractive and productive wildlife habitat. Think vertically as well as horizontally when you are creating a new environment for your garden wildlife. Trees and shrubs provide wonderful amounts of shade and food for small animals. Include varieties like hosta, japonica and even rhubarb for their large leaves. Ground covering plants are also valuable additions to your garden and enjoyed by a wide range of creatures and insects. Consider installing feeders and nesting boxes for the local birds. If you keep them well stocked and in good

condition you will have plenty of regular visitors. Bird baths are increasing in popularity and can either be homemade or shop bought. Garden Centres and nurseries are getting much better now at providing us with information about which plants are bee friendly. Again, plan carefully where these will go in your garden – perhaps away from the main walkways and seating areas. Selecting fruit or nut bearing varieties of plants will be very much appreciated by the local wildlife. There are some shrubs that produce berries all year round. Deciduous trees and shrubs can be planted along a south facing walls to provide summer shade. If you haven’t got a garden, then worry not. Patios and balconies are great locations for container gardens! Autumn is round the corner It is worth noting we will be slipping into Autumn after the heatwaves of summer. Quite often we like to ‘tidy’ our gardens and fill our green wheelie bins with leaves, cuttings and other plant material. Much of our wildlife actually relies on the leaves and dead flower heads that we like to completely remove. Consider whether you can have a ‘wild’ area of your garden this year that you do not completely clear, and marvel at the little creatures who make it their home – and larder! Similarly, there maybe areas of your garden that you chose to leave and allow to grow wild. Resisting the urge to weed sections, allowing plants to grow without being pruned back. Have a potter around your garden this week and see if there are any small changes that can be made, to help the wildlife flourish during these warmer months. 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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Home Products

Tidy Those Toys

By Katherine Sorrell

Fun and functional, this storage bench has a contemporary look and is both versatile and tough. Industrial kids locker storage bench in Hertog Grey by Woood, £249, Cuckooland.

Make putting toys away easy and enjoyable, even for little fingers, and tidying up shouldn’t be too much of a chore. So cute it hurts, this straw basket is perfect for playing picnics – and for tucking away tiny toys. Piki straw basket in mint, £34.90, Bobby Rabbit.

This space-saving storage piece is environmentally friendly and can be used for books, toys or anything else, with two cupboards for stashing secret stuff. Oeuf vertical mini-library shelf in white and birch, £574, Bobby Rabbit.

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Storage, storage, everywhere

This friendly bear with rosy cheeks can be pulled along as your child plays. Pull-along storage box, £70, Cox & Cox.

Get smart with storage and make use of clear, stackable boxes in a range of sizes with clip-close lids. SmartStore Classic Range by Orthex, from £7, John Lewis. Stackable, practical, colourful and inexpensive – a great storage solution. Flip-lid stackable storage box, £5, Poundland.

Too cool for school? Try a coloured storage locker. Mustard Made Lockers, the Midi Locker in sage, £299, Rose & Grey.

Add a touch of playful character and practicality with this Ferm Living apple braided storage basket, £75, Nest.

For teddies, laundry or general storage, try a soft, quilted basket – with added dinosaurs for fun. Dinosaur storage basket (large), £24, Sophie Allport.

STOCKISTS Bobby Rabbit: 0114 321 7000; bobbyrabbit.co.uk Cuckooland: 01305 231 231; cuckooland.com Nest: 0114 243 3000; nest.co.uk Rose & Grey: 0161 926 8763; roseandgrey.co.uk

• If there’s one golden rule about storage, it’s that you can’t have too much of it. Aim for a mix of cupboards with doors and boxes with lids – in which toys can be put away out of sight – and open baskets, shelves and chests, where it’s easy to chuck soft toys or similar. • Match the size of the storage to what’s being stored. Teeny tiny toys like Lego or Playmobil are best kept in small, lidded boxes. For superlative efficiency, try labelling or colour-coding them. • Neutral colours can create a calm environment, and should be less likely to become outdated by the latest fad. There’s no reason why your child’s storage shouldn’t complement the overall aesthetic of your home – just choose pieces set at a lower level and make sure they’re safe from toppling over or trapping little fingers. • For optimum practicality, storage that’s multipurpose, modular, stackable or on wheels is always a great choice. If you’re short on floor space, try hanging it from the ceiling, tucking it under the bed or mounting it on the back of the door.

Cox & Cox: 0330 333 2123; coxandcox.co.uk John Lewis: 03456 100 336; johnlewis.com Poundland: 0800 731 5622; poundland.co.uk Sophie Allport: 01778 560 256; sophieallport.com

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Short Story

A Choice of Kevins “So all Darren told you was that his name’s Kevin?” Jenny calmly admired herself in a shop window. “And he was at school with us?” “Yes, and that he couldn’t wait to see you again,” Donna repeated. “You look great in that colour Jenny, really glamorous.” “I know.” Jenny pouted. “But you’d better not have dragged me out for no reason.” “We’ll have a laugh,” Donna said. “Have a few drinks, reminisce about old times, just you, me, Darren and this Kevin.” “Yes, but which Kevin, Donna?” Jennifer frowned and reapplied her lipstick. “There must have been about a million Kevins in our year.” In reality, there had been four Kevins and two Jennifers – Cool Jenny and Swotty Jenny – and she knew which one she was. “Do you remember that Clingy Kevin?” Donna laughed, walking on. “How he would follow us around like a lost puppy singing Love Me Tender?” “Urgh!” Jenny shivered. “It had better not be him.” “I heard he got married in Vegas.” Donna checked her watch, they were right on time. “Wife’s expecting twins.” “Good for him,” Jennifer yawned dismissively, checking her manicure. “And what about Kanga Kev?” Donna giggled. “Remember when he turned up for PE in a homemade costume.” “If anyone’s wearing a kangaroo suit at the pub,” Jenny huffed, “I’m going straight home.” Donna chuckled. “And what about that Kevin who was Captain Hook in the school play and fell off the stage?”

“He went off to work on the cruise ships.” Jennifer raised one eyebrow. “Clearly he didn’t learn his lesson.” “That only leaves that gorgeous Kevin Cooper, doesn’t it?” Donna said as they turned into the pub car park. “I heard on the grapevine that he was back in town.” Jennifer knew for a fact that he was because she’d done her research. He’d dated lots of girls in school, so handsome with his blond hair and wet look gel, but bizarrely never once asked her out. She reassured herself that he probably had a secret crush on her all along but thought she was out of his league. It wouldn’t surprise her if he’d been carrying a torch for her all these years. Between all the tables and umbrellas laid out in the beer garden, she spotted Darren putting down a tray of drinks, with another man who looked over at her expectantly. She would know that blond hair anywhere. “Kevin Cooper!” Donna laughed as they approached the table. “We were just trying to work out which Kevin you’d be!” He seemed taken aback – perhaps he’s disappointed that I’ve not come alone thought Jenny. She smoothed down the dress she could barely breathe in, reminded herself that she was Cool Jenny and it was his job to impress her. “You remember Jenny from school?” Darren said, making introductions. “I think I remember you.” Kevin scratched his head and glanced sheepishly at Darren. “It’s a bit embarrassing, but I was expecting the other Jenny.”

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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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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

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Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

Technology

A Dream World Sleep aids from clever cots to mattress monitors Many new parents would pay anything for a good night’s sleep, and it turns out that ‘anything’ might mean £1,145. That’s what the SNOO Smart Sleeper Baby Cot costs, but if it works then it’s priceless. The SNOO has sensors to detect baby’s movement and responds with calming sounds and motion, helping to settle fractious babies and help them learn to self-soothe. It’s all controlled via a smartphone app that also enables you to get daily sleep reports and healthy sleep tips. Smart beds aren’t just for babies. From smart mattresses using a mix of memory foam and other supportive fabrics (to keep you comfortable without making your bed feel like an oven) to smart beds that are packed with technology, there are lots of bedtime options for every body shape and every kind of sleeper. Most of the beds dubbed smart beds are really just connected beds, so for example the £1,999 Hargen Smart Bed’s smart features are Bluetooth audio, a password-protected built-in safe and a remote-controlled massage feature. But you can make any bed a smart bed by adding some sleep sensors such as Withings’ Sleep Analyzer (£90). This fits under your mattress and communicates with your phone, enabling you to track your sleep patterns and monitor conditions such as sleep apnoea that may be preventing you from getting a good night’s sleep. If you’d rather use a wearable, the Apple Watch and many wearable fitness trackers such as Garmin and Fitbit trackers can track your sleep. The available features vary by product but they can typically distinguish between deep and light sleep, and in some cases they can even monitor your oxygen saturation and heart rate to get a fuller picture of your sleep habits. You can use that information to identify the things that might be interfering with your sleep, especially if you also use your phone’s health app to track other data such as exercise or alcohol intake: the more data you have about your body, the easier it becomes to identify triggers and trends that you can take steps to change.

SNOO Smart Sleeper The award-winning SNOO promises to lull baby to sleep by responding to their movements with soothing motions and womb-like sounds. £1,145 from happiestbaby.co.uk

Hargen Smart Bed Smart refers to the design rather than the tech: the Hargen bed is packed with storage cubbyholes as well as a stereo speaker system with Bluetooth connectivity. £1,999 from sleekliving.co.uk Apple Watch Series 6 Apple’s own sleep-tracking system is really good, particularly now the Apple Watch doesn’t require recharging every night. There are stacks of third-party sleep-tracking apps too. £349 from apple.com

Withings Sleep Analyzer Turn any bed into a smart bed with this clever sleep sensor. It tracks your sleep through the night (or day) and sends the data to your phone so you can identify trends. £89.95 from amazon.co.uk

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SHIRON

Domestic Appliances Repairs of

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

Contact RONNIE Tel: 01438 720 304 Mobile: 07396 579717

Email: rohintoncooper@hotmail.com

HERTS OVEN CLEAN 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. To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

Motoring

Hybrid SUVs: what’s available? If you fancy a hybrid with more space there are plenty of options The SUV lends itself perfectly to a hybrid powertrain, with more space for the batteries and hence a better boot. This is why there are so many hybrid SUV offerings available today. We’ve picked out some of the best options available today. BMW X5 xDrive45e - BMW’s X5 now has a plug-in hybrid variant – badged X5 xDrive45e. With electric range of up to 54 miles, it far exceeds the vast majority of other hybrids and allows for decent-length journeys to be completed on battery power alone. Plus, you still get the premium cabin and sharp looks that you’d associate with the standard X5. Kia Sorento PHEV - Kia’s plug-in hybrid version of its latest Sorento SUV uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine linked to an electric motor and batteries, and Kia claims you’ll get around 35 miles of electric-only driving. As well as a striking exterior design, the Sorento boasts a well-made cabin that is fitted with a healthy level of standard equipment. Mercedes-Benz GLE350de - The GLE350de is a diesel-powered hybrid, which is not common across this segment. Mercedes claims you’ll get up to 256.8 mpg combined, which will help with the fuel bills. Plus, when you’ve run out of electricity – which should still give you a decent 54 miles between charges – you’re left with a smooth and refined 2.0-litre diesel engine. Audi Q5 TFSI e - Audi’s Q5 has proved to be a popular choice in the SUV segment thanks to its premium interior and good level of standard equipment, with a plug-in hybrid version recently added. You should get 26 miles of electric-only range in the Q5, allowing for plenty of driving without having to trouble the petrol engine. Peugeot 3008 Hybrid - Peugeot’s range of electrified vehicles is expanding, with the 3008 plug-in hybrid one of its latest. It uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine hooked up to two electric motors for a combined power output of 296bhp. Four-wheel drive means it’s got plenty of traction, too. Peugeot claims an electric-only range of up to 36 miles. On top of this, you get loads of standard equipment and one of the sharpest exterior designs around. Volkswagen Touareg R - A hybrid setup can be used for performance, as demonstrated by the new Volkswagen Touareg R. It’s now Volkswagen’s most powerful production car to date, thanks to its V6 petrol engine and electric motor combination producing 456bhp and 700Nm of torque. But it remains a practical and well-sized option, while a claimed fuel economy figure of 94.2mpg should make it a little cheaper to run than a conventional Touareg, too. DS 7 Crossback E-Tense - As part of the wider PSA Group, DS can take advantage of all manner of hybrid powertrains. It’s why the 3008 and the DS 7 Crossback E-Tense appear so similar – they’re essentially the same underneath. However, the DS has a slightly more dramatic, eye-catching exterior combined with a flamboyant interior. Plus, you should get up to 34 miles of electric range from a single charge.

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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

GAS SAFE REGISTERED

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Your Perfect Loft Access and Storage Solution Our services include: Loft Ladders Loft Hatches Insulation Loft Boarding Loft Lighting Balustrades We are a family run business who comply to building regulations, where our fitters are fully insured and all of our work is guaranteed. Covering Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Essex.

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Call now for a free, no obligation quotation

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Crossword Puzzle Solution from our August Edition Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Diana Williams, Alconbury

August’s Codeword and Sudoku Solutions

Easy

Hard

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The Villager Prize Crossword Prize

£25

Across 1 Entrance (6) 4 Be owned by (6) 9 Hold (7) 10 Previous (5) 11 Brush (5) 12 Conversing (7) 13 Promises (11) 18 Sediment (7) 20 Undressed (5) 22 Avoid (5) 23 In the open air (7) 24 Guard (6) 25 Grown-ups (6)

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

16th September 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 Blame (6) 2 Type of light boat (5) 3 Soap (7) 5 Banish (5) 6 Belief (7) 7 Car repair centre (6) 8 Directive (11) 14 Make clear (7) 15 Caught fire (7) 16 Snakes (6) 17 Worships (6) 19 Curse (5) 21 Small hill (5)

Name:

Address:



Tel:

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Books

Challenges Faced and Struggles Overcome Conjure Women Afia Atakora

Set a few years after the abolition of slavery, Conjure Women tells the story of Rue. As a ‘conjure woman’, Rue has learnt how to treat minor ailments and birth babies. But when a baby is born with black eyes and other children succumb to a mysterious illness, Rue’s community starts to turn against her. Rue has many secrets, one of which could change her community forever. A beautifully written book for fans of Toni Morrison and Yaa Gyasi.

Widowland CJ Carey

In a reimagined timeline where the Nazis won World War II, women in Britain are subject to strict controls. As an elite ‘Geli woman’ with a high-up boyfriend, Rose enjoys some privileges and has seemingly settled into the role prescribed for her. She’s tasked with rewriting classic books to align them to this new world order. However, when Rose is sent to infiltrate Widowland – the slums where childless, husbandless women over fifty are banished to – in order to report back on a rebellious faction, she has to decide whose side she’s really on. A slow-burner, but ultimately gripping.

The Cancer Ladies’ Running Club Josie Lloyd

The Cancer Ladies’ Running Club is a surprisingly lighthearted, uplifting read based on the author’s own experiences with cancer. The main character is Keira, whose world comes crashing down after a cancer diagnosis. Struggling to come to terms with her illness, Keira finds solace, companionship and laughter in a running group of other cancer patients and survivors.

Sea Prayer Khalid Hosseini

A father and son wait for a boat that they hope will take them to a new life. The father talks of the beauty of Syria before the bombs hit – the bustling markets, olive groves and tight-knit families. He talks of his hopes for the future and his belief that the country they’re travelling to will see all the goodness and potential in his son. Written in response to the death of Alan Kurdi and other refugee children, Sea Prayer is a deeply moving, beautifully illustrated book. It’s very short but welldeserving of a place on your bookshelf.

Beautiful Country Qian Julie Wang

The author moved to America when she was seven. While her parents were professors back in China, they found themselves relegated to working in sweatshops in the US. As undocumented migrants, the family had few rights and lived in fear of being sent back to China. Such fear that when Qian’s mother grew sick, the family could not seek help. A stunning memoir, Beautiful Country will take your breath away.

My Time Will Come Ian Manuel

Ian Manuel was sentenced to life in prison at just fourteen years old for his role in a botched robbery. He was placed in solitary confinement. This is Ian’s story of where it all went wrong, how he survived twenty-six years in the American prison system (most of which he spent in solitary), where he was beaten, chained and belittled, and how he came to befriend the woman he shot.

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By Kate Duggan 61

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Stevenage Sept 2021

Articles inside

Book Review

Short Story: A Choice of Kevins

Tidy Those Toys

Wildlife Friendly Back Gardens

Why we have seasons

Beautiful Children’s Rooms

Buying Outerwear Without Losing Style

Cash for Clutter

Don’t Pay Too Much Tax

Seasonal Recipe: Paprika Chicken

Low Maintenance Gardening

Cooking with kids

Charming Cathedral Cities in the UK