Henlow Feb 2019 by Villager Mag

VILLAGER The

Issue 123 - February 2019

and Town

Life

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

In this issue The History of

Hysteria

My Gardening

Valentine Win £25

in our Prize Crossword

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Langford, Henlow, Shefford, Stanford, Hinxworth, Caldecote, Radwell, Fairfield Park, Shillington, Pirton, Upper and Lower Stondon, Gravenhurst, ur Holwell, Meppershall, Baldock, Stotfold, Arlesey & Letchworth Yo EE

FRco1py

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Inside this issue... Win a Bottle of Bedfordshire Bubbly and Vineyard Tour

The History of Hysteria....................................................................... 4 That’s the Spirit - Gin.......................................................................... 8 Namibia - Etosha National Park........................................................ 10 Win a Bottle of Bedfordshire Bubbly................................. 12 Parental Stress - Has it Changed over 50 Years?................................ 16 Sing into Spring with Phoenix.......................................................... 19 Do you need a fitness tracker?.......................................................... 20 Winter Saviours................................................................................ 22 How to Effortlessly Wear Living Coral............................................... 25 Hair Today - It’s not just a haircut..................................................... 27 How did you sleep?.......................................................................... 30 Fancy Dressers: Eccentrics who stood out from the crowd................ 33 The Packed Lunch Problem............................................................... 34 Spring Clean your Finanaces for a Richer 2019................................. 36 Remarkable Raspberries.................................................................. 39 My Gardening Valentine................................................................... 40 Greensand Country Announces 2019 Festival................................... 43

Get that Job..................................................................................... 44 Wordsearch...................................................................................... 44 Fun Quiz........................................................................................... 48 R.A.T.S. Rehoming Appeal................................................................ 50 World Spay Day................................................................................ 53 Children’s Page................................................................................. 54 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe........................................................... 57 Reasons why you should join a WI in 2019....................................... 58 Puzzle Page...................................................................................... 60 2019 Wildlife Competition............................................................... 62 What’s On......................................................................................... 64 The Changing Face of Television....................................................... 67 Displaying Art in your Home............................................................ 69 Prize Crossword............................................................... 74 Book Review.................................................................................... 77

Greensand Country 2019 Festival

Get your business off to a flying start this year

Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £35.00 +VAT per month Editorial - Catherine Rose, Trevor Langley, Solange Hando, Kate McLelland, Ian Collins, Kate Duggan, Jennie Billings, Tracey Anderson, Dr. Michelle O’Reilly, Ann Haldon, Rachael Leverton, Pippa Greenwood, RSPCA, Nick Coffer and Katherine Sorrell

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

Disclaimer - All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however, Villager Publications Ltd can not take any responsibility for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the editorial. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher.

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History

The History of Hysteria

By Catherine Rose Everyone knows the modern day meaning of hysteria. The Oxford dictionary defines it as ‘exaggerated or uncontrollable emotion or excitement, especially among a group of people’. But did you know it was also an old-fashioned term for a female medical condition during the 19th century? The following article contains sensitive material!

The term hysteria comes from the Ancient Greek word for womb. Physicians believed that many female ailments were caused by a ‘wandering uterus’ that moved around inside the body resulting in blockages that caused all kinds of physical diseases. During the second century, a Roman physician, surgeon and philosopher named Galen

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AFTERNOON TEA AT THE HOUSE Savour the quintessentially English past-time of taking afternoon tea, in the grand setting of The House, Shuttleworth. The House will be open from 09.30 with guests encouraged to explore the rooms and find out about the Shuttleworth Family and Old Warden Park. Sunday 10th February Sunday 14th April

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hypothesised that the disease of hysteria was caused by sexual deprivation so was most prevalent in nuns, virgins and widows. During the sexually repressed Victorian era, doctors’ diagnosis of hysteria in female patients became increasingly common. In 1859, a French physician, Dr Pierre Briquet claimed that a quarter of Victorian women suffered from what he called hysteron-neurasthenic disorders.

Physicians believed that many female ailments were caused by a ‘wandering uterus’ It was believed that women were of a more nervous disposition than men and could develop any number of psychological symptoms from the simple fact they possessed a womb. Hysteria would be diagnosed from a range of physical symptoms such as feeling faint, anxiety, insomnia, fluid retention, muscle spasms, breathlessness, loss of appetite, emotional instability and irritability. It was therefore easy for a woman to be misdiagnosed with hysteria when she really had a serious physical condition such as epilepsy. The cure was simple however. The patient was advised to have regular sexual intercourse. However, for unmarried women, this simply wasn’t possible, so doctors would carry out pelvic massage to induce what they termed ‘hysterical paroxysm’. This seems shocking to us today, despite the fact we are far more sexually liberated and educated than these Victorian women were, many of whom led such sheltered lives they didn’t even know what sexual intercourse involved until they married. Other treatments for hysteria could include bed rest, bland food, isolation and lack of any mental stimulation. In extreme cases a hysterectomy was performed, or the woman was sent to an asylum. Contrary to what you might expect, physicians considered pelvic massage to be no more than a medical duty. In fact, it was looked upon as a tiresome task that often took time and effort to achieve. As a result, to meet the growing need for the treatment of ‘hysterical’ women, the first vibrator was invented – not the modern sex toy, but a bona fide medical aid.

Initially, treatment was hydrotherapy-based. Hydrotherapy had in fact been around since the 1700s at bath houses for general massage and wellbeing (much as in spas today), but it was now specifically redesigned for pelvic massage via a jet of water attached to a special chair. Then in 1870, a clockwork vibrator became available. Three years later, an electromechanical device was invented and is said to have been tried out at an asylum in France. Rather frighteningly, an American doctor, George Taylor, came up with a steam-powered vibrator called ‘The Manipulator’ in 1869 that was the size of a dining room table and needed coal regularly shovelled into it to make it work! By the beginning of the 20th century hand-held portable electrical vibrators such as ‘Dr Harry F Waite’s Tissue Oscillator’ were now available to the general public so that women suffering from hysteria could treat themselves in the privacy of their own home. The development of psychology and increased understanding of the human mind meant that the idea of hysteria was replaced by more accurate diagnoses of either physical or specific psychological conditions such as personality disorders, anxiety and neuroses. As for vibrators, they gradually came to be seen not as health aids but as devices for sexual gratification and were appearing in pornographic films as early as the 1930s, long after respectable doctors had disowned them as a form of medical treatment. The American Psychiatric Society dropped the term ‘hysteria’ in 1952 and today it is no longer recognised as a medical condition. However, there are still psychological definitions related to the term. Histrionic personality disorder for example is said to affect around two to three percent of the population. People with this disorder tend to be overemotional and exhibit attention-seeking behaviour, amongst other traits. Psychoanalysis now uses the terms ‘conversion’ or ‘somatization’ disorder for people who are suffering from symptoms that are rooted in the mind and have no apparent physical cause, whether patients are women or not. A film with an all-star cast including Sheridan Smith and Jonathon Pryce about the invention of the vibrator was released in 2011. It was called ‘Hysteria’.

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Food and Drink

That’s the Spirit

Gin

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

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

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

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Travel

Namibia

By Solange Hando

Mountains, desert or ocean, Namibia is amazing but did you know it was the first country in the world to include conservation in its constitution? Today, with its national parks alongside game and nature reserves, over 40% of the land is protected, a haven for the wildlife, so varied and abundant. The top viewing area is the Etosha National Park created in 1967 on a former game reserve, across the Kalahari basin up in the north-west. The name means the ‘Great White Place’, referring to a salt pan so large it can be seen from space. It’s a desert in the dry season, a land of mirages and sweeping wind, but during the summer rains it all comes alive as huge flocks of flamingos and other migrating birds return to their seasonal lagoon. Beyond the pan which covers 23% of the park, the savanna ranges from open grasslands to dwarf shrubs, thorn bush and trees, most common the acacias and the lovely Mopane whose leaves are shaped like butterflies.

Etosha National Park

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Wildlife thrives in all areas but some species have favourite habitats – for instance, elephants like to shelter under the trees; lions, on the other hand, find the perfect camouflage in tall golden grass, so the best way to tick names off your list is to trust the local guides.

Mountains, desert or ocean, Namibia is amazing but did you know it was the first country in the world to include conservation in its constitution? Sightings are guaranteed, they say, within three minutes of entering the park, though during the wet season, so beautifully lush and green, this may be more difficult. However, the dry season, June to October, is always rewarding, as animals wander across the arid land on

their way to the waterholes. Best safari times are early or late in the day – be prepared for the cold – but what matters is not the distance covered but an attitude in tune with nature: slow down, stop and wait, look around, listen and for sure something will happen. So what might you see in such a pristine place rising like a dream out of this world? 113 species of mammals, 350 of birds, 110 of reptiles, amphibians and even fish. Once endangered species, such as elephants, lions, rhinos and the black-faced impalas, are recovering well, but most common are zebras and gambolling springboks. Lucky visitors may spot a lonely leopard, a cheetah with her young or a speeding hyena, but the elegant giraffes and the long-horned creatures are there for all to see, be it a red hartebeest zigzagging away to escape a predator, a solitary greater kudu, an eland – the largest African antelope – or an oryx, the national animal. Then there are the little ones: the rock hyrax, the yellow mongoose, the black-backed jackal, the smallest antelope or dick-dick, and of course the birds: hornbills, plump red bishop, yellow masked weaver, lilac-breasted roller and many more. As the sun sets over the savanna, the gently floodlit waterholes are pure magic as animals approach ever so carefully, waiting patiently for their turn to drink under a starlit sky.

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WIN A BOTTLE OF

BEDFORDSHIRE BUBBLY and a Vineyard Tour for two at

Warden Abbey Vineyard Did you know Bedfordshire’s medieval vineyard is now an exciting community project? Nestled in the rolling Bedfordshire hills, this beautiful five acre field near Old Warden was first planted with vines in medieval times by monks at Warden Abbey - one of the oldest Cistercian settlements in England. Centuries later, the monks’ “Lyttel Vineyard” was re-planted and has produced award-winning wines ever since, with medals at regional, national and international level. Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity now lease the vineyard and run it as a “not for profit” community project, offering opportunities for learning, improving physical and mental wellbeing, and reducing isolation. All proceeds from wine sales go to keeping the project going. Today it’s an army of volunteers who turn out in sun, rain and even snow to tend the vines. They also promote the project, fund-raise, run tours and talks, a donate-a-vine scheme, school visits, as well as social and therapeutic horticulture, wildlife and heritage projects. Public and group tours are held on a number of dates each year (see website). Also, visitors to the annual Open Day on Sept 8th will be able to discover its history, tour the vineyard, taste wines and relax with local food and craft stalls, children’s activities and BBQ. Tel: 07981 113714 Email: info@wardenvineyard.org.uk Website: www.wardenvineyard.org.uk

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

WARDEN ABBEY VINEYARD COMPETITION ENTRY

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

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The highest level of care Enjoy a happy and fulfilling life with new friends at Guysfield. Guysfield Residential Home in the beautiful conservation village of Willian, is just a mile to the south of Letchworth Garden City. Rated ‘Good’ by the CQC across all areas for 2 years running and scoring 9.6 out of 10 in independent customer reviews, Guysfield is a country house built in 1884, converted and extended to provide the very highest standard of residential and dementia care for up to 49 elderly people including trial stays, short-stay breaks and convalescence. The original house retains a wealth of period features and the substantial mature 14

gardens are a favourite amongst residents and visitors alike. The highly skilled nurses and carers take the time to get to know all residents and to listen to their individual stories to provide a lifestyle at Guysfield they’ll love that’s designed so they can call it home. The Home Manager, Pawel Michalewicz and his team have been chosen for their ability to create a home with care and wellbeing as central principles where residents are encouraged to enjoy maximum independence. Residents can spend time with new friends in the shared lounges and

dining rooms and the Activities Co-ordinator provides a varied programme of events suited to the residents’ wishes and needs, from trips to local sights and shows, to quizzes and entertainment in the lounge.

For further information or to book an appointment to view Guysfield, call Freephone 0808 223 5400 or visit www.caringhomes.org/ guysfield Guysfield, Willian Road, Willian, Letchworth, Hertfordshire, SG6 2AB

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I believe in the spirit of inquiry Open Morning Wednesday 6th March, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; School is part of The Harpur Trust

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Life Begins...

By Kate McLelland

Parental Stress

Has it changed over 50 years? If you’ve recently watched your adult son or daughter – now a parent themselves – searching the internet for the latest advice on nappy rash or teething problems, it probably triggered memories of the new-parent panics you experienced when you were young. At that time it’s likely you picked up the phone to ask your mum, dad or grandparents for advice but nowadays, when the internet is the go-to source on information on everything from breast feeding to building a tree house, it’s rare – if not unheard of – for the older generation to be asked for advice about childcare. So what else has changed over the past fifty years when it comes to bringing up a child? According to the magazine Psychology Today, “Anxiety has become the hallmark of contemporary parenting”. Healthcare worries Advances in healthcare have made the process of giving birth much safer for both mothers and babies over the last half century. As soon as a pregnancy begins, everything from the baby’s growth to maternal blood pressure is tested and monitored. While this high level of care is

No more outdoors? Many grandparents look back nostalgically to the time when they roamed parks, streets and open spaces, playing with other children without adult supervision, but these days youngsters are lured by the indoor attractions of computer games, TV and the internet. These days parents are more fearful about the risks of letting their children play outside, citing concerns about road safety, ‘stranger danger’ and bullying by other children. However, Dr Michael Ungar, author of ‘Nurturing Resilience’ believes parents are too fearful of outdoor hazards. “Where the real dangers lie is indoors,” he writes in a blog published by Psychology Today. “Excessive screen time, often occurring while children snack on unhealthy foods, combined

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reassuring in one way, it can also add to the anxiety experienced by new parents.

Grandparents may feel a pang of nostalgia for those long-lost ‘Motherknows-best’ days

with low levels of activity and few opportunities to learn responsibility or social skills, leave children terribly unhealthy.” Spare the rod Smacking a child may not have been frowned on in the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s but after 1990, when the UK signed up to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, it also became less socially acceptable. While it’s currently illegal to use discipline that inflicts actual physical harm, UK legislation stops short at hitting or slapping that doesn’t leave a lasting mark on the child. However there is huge pressure to change the law: this year the Scottish government is leading the way with a new bill to outlaw any form of physical assault on a child. Looking back over the past five decades, a mixed picture emerges: while parents are probably more anxious than they were back in the ‘60s and ‘70s, children’s health and welfare is considered more important than ever. Thankfully one thing remains the same: most parents just want their children to grow up to lead happy, healthy and productive lives.

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Local News

Sing into Spring with Phoenix!

Looking for something new to try? Do you love to sing in the car, or the shower? Or maybe you used to sing in a choir, and are looking for a new opportunity? Sing into Spring with Phoenix! Starting on 5th March, Phoenix Chorus are running a 4-week course in A Cappella singing. If you’re a fan of the Pitch Perfect movies or Pitch Battle and The Voice on TV, here’s your chance to try it. Indulge your love of music and singing Experience the unique 4-part a cappella harmony Make time for you at least one night a week for a month, to do something you really enjoy!

We’re a Ladies A Cappella chorus based in Potton, Beds, but our members come from all over, most within a 25 mile radius. As long as you’re at least 16 we’d love you to join us in March so we can all learn a new song together and you can take part in a free ‘Friends and Family’ performance too. Have a look at our website https://phoenixladies. co.uk or call us on 07845 101799 for further information on how you can…… Sing into Spring! We’d love to meet you!

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Health and Fitness

By Ian Collins

Do You Need an Activity Tracker? Activity trackers have become very popular in recent years. Fitbits are the device that everyone has heard of but there are many others. If you’re thinking of buying one, ask yourself these questions: Do you exercise regularly? Lots of people buy a Fitbit or its equivalent because they think it will help them to exercise consistently. But these devices are not magic bullets. If you make any and every excuse NOT to exercise then a Fitbit won’t change that, you will simply make excuses to avoid exercise while wearing a gadget! Would you wear it, and use it? For a fitness tracker to give you actionable data you need to wear it almost all of the time, even while asleep. Some people can’t wear watches or jewellery while they are at work, others hate the feeling of anything on their wrist, and others have sensitive skin which is irritated by straps. If you don’t wear it then it can’t do its job, so it’s not worth buying one. Will you use the app? You’ll need to download the app to your phone and use it if you want to make use of the data your activity tracker collects. Interacting with your device and the app is key to success, so if you can’t commit, don’t buy. Are you a data nerd? Some of us love to monitor our sleep, our heart rates, the number of steps we do each day. We find ourselves endlessly fascinating. The basics of losing weight and becoming healthier are simple,

but the specifics for our own body can vary wildly. If you don’t care about specifics and are happy with just eating a bit less and exercising a bit more, an activity tracker might be a waste of money for you. If you have a medical condition or are in training for an event, or just enjoy looking at data, then having organized and detailed information at your fingertips is a great resource. Would my phone do the job instead? There are hundreds of fitness, pedometer and cycling apps on both Android and iOS. If you’re unsure about whether an activity tracker is the right purchase for you try using one or two of these apps for a month. You might find they give you all the data you need. Also, if you find you can’t be bothered to use the apps, then you are very unlikely to benefit from buying an activity tracker. Are you competitive? Some activity trackers (particularly Fitbits) are social. You can add friends, compare step counts and earn milestone badges. You can also create groups and engage in competitions and challenges. While these are good features, they aren’t for everyone. You might not need such a high-spec activity tracker if you don’t want to engage in the social side of things. Activity trackers are useful devices and many people enjoy them and benefit from using them, but they won’t turn a reluctant exerciser into a highly motivated one, and if you aren’t actually interested in all the data, they might not justify their price tag.

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Health & Beauty

Winter Saviours By Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

If your skin is feeling the drying effects of central heating, or you’re just in need of a winter pick-meup, we may have the answer. When it’s dark and gloomy outside, a bright splash of colour is always welcome. I’m going for Glossworks Nail Polish in Flamingo. This rich coral shade is very easy to wear and seems to suit most skin tones. The polish is not too drippy and it’s also vegan and free from formaldehyde, parabens and the other chemical ‘nasties’. It’s £12 from www.lovelula.com. I do love something that has an instant effect as well as a long-term benefit. Image Skincare AGELESS Total Pure Hyaluronic Filler delivers on both counts. Hyaluronic acid is a real workhorse. It helps the skin to lock in moisture and has an instant plumping effect, so minimises the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Long-term, it also stimulates collagen, combats free radicals, improves skin elasticity and more. At £80 for a small bottle it’s not cheap, but you do only need a tiny amount. www.imageskincare.co.uk

In need of a winter pick-me-up? We may have the answer If you’re in the market for a new moisturiser, try Kimberly Sayer’s Restore Anti-Ageing Cream. It’s designed to moisturise, tighten, firm and soothe skin, while protecting from environmental damage. It’s rich enough for dry and mature skin but absorbs easily and isn’t greasy. £29.50, www.lovelula.com.

The cold weather can wreak havoc with your skin, but if your hands are feeling dry and sore, there may be another culprit to blame – your hand wash. Most liquid hand washes contain ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin. Try swapping to a bar of soap instead. Faith in Nature, Bentley Organic and Weleda are good brands to look out for or try your local health food store or farmers’ market for locally made natural soaps.

If your skin does get dry and flaky, you might want to invest in a healing balm. Odylique’s Ultra Rich Balm is very hydrating, 100% natural and suitable for sensitive skin. It’s made from shea butter, olive oil, coconut oil, beeswax and sea buckthorn oil, all of which help to nourish and protect skin. A little goes a long way and you can use the balm all over, including on lips and hair. From £9.50, www.odylique.co.uk.

Looking for a budget-friendly, calorie-free, alcoholfree treat? The Kiss Naturals Eye Palette is just £3 from Wilko and features 12 neutral shades, from light beige to chocolate. £3 for 12 eyeshadows, a mirror and a brush? It seems rude not to.

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House of Colour

How To Effortlessly Wear

Living Coral – The Colour of 2019 The Pantone Colour Institute has announced their colour of 2019 is the gorgeous Living Coral (16-1546) but can we all wear this warm and energising colour? Through their extensive research, The Pantone Institute chose Living Coral ‘partly as an antidote’ to the ‘cold and distant’ digital world and as ‘a shade of connection’. How to wear it…. 1. We associate coral with the fresh, warmth and sun-kissed coral seas of Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines – but the gorgeous warm hue that is Living Coral will not work for all skin tones; particularly those that suit cool colours. Some of us have warm pigment in our skin which is yellow based, while others of us have cool pigment which is blue based. When you wear the right tones for your skin you will look brighter, fresher and younger but when a blue based cool skin undertone is wearing warm colours they appear sallow and slightly blurred. Equally when someone with a warm yellow based skin undertone wears cool colours they will appear washed out, older and tired. Coral is a warm yellow based pink and so will suit those with warm skin tones much better than those with cool. 2. Don’t despair though if you are cool toned ie if you have a Winter or Summer colour palette, blue based equivalents range from Winter’s shocking pink, magenta and ice pink to Summer’s softer rose, powder pink or raspberry. If you are cool toned but still want to wear the oh so modern Living Coral then an alternative is to wear a pattern with a splash and a dash of coral. 3. Springs and Autumns should check their own wardrobes before racing to the shops. You may

already have variants of coral - which range from soft peach through to perfect coral and orange reds - which look gorgeous on you and are already within your capsule wardrobe. Shockingly 30% of the clothes in British wardrobes are rarely worn. If you do want to buy something of sartorial style in Living Coral consider whether you would better suit wearing Living Coral from head to toe in a gorgeous maxi dress or summer suit, but for others it may best work as a blouse or as summer trousers. As a pop of colour, coral looks gorgeous as a scarf, belt, shoes or handbag, particularly against a backdrop of a warm navy and maybe more in 2019’s spring and summer time which are the times of year when coral naturally finds its way into the shops. Using a pop of coral in these types of accessories will also work well with your neutrals for a memorable business look. Coral is also fantastic in a lipstick, blusher and on nails for those with warm colour tones. Just make sure you don’t go too orange, which can look exciting on some people but not on everyone. At a time when looking at how to drastically reduce pollution, plastics, disposal and carbon emissions is of critical importance, Living Coral couldn’t be timelier. Just as coral reefs are a source of sustenance and shelter to sea life, Living Coral reminds us of our precious world and our responsibility to protect it. By Jennie Billings, Colour and Style Consultant,HOUSE OF COLOUR www.houseofcolour.co.uk/jenniebillings jennie.billings@houseofcolour.co.uk www.pantone.com/color-of-the-year-2019

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Health & Beauty

Hair Today

No, it’s not ‘Just a haircut!’ Have you ever marked a life event by changing your hairstyle? Did you regret it, or did you feel free? Many people, most of them women, use haircuts as a marker for change. In films the main character often undergoes a makeover as a metaphor for the dramatic changes they undergo in the movie: Sandy in Grease, and Julia Roberts’ character in Pretty Woman are just two of them. Before the makeover things were bad; after the makeover things are good. Simples. Or is it? In real life hairdressers bear witness to this scenario frequently. We may not tell them directly, but often they will sense we’re on a mission to create a new improved version of ourselves; or a quick way to shed the past and move on. But dramatic hairstyle changes while in the midst of a life crisis can prove ill-advised. Sometimes we’re not really after a new hairstyle, more a whole new life. And as satisfying as it is to leave a salon with a completely new look, we need to remember that our hair might look different, but our problems will remain the same. We will still feel just as bad about our husband running off with our best friend, we’ll just be doing it with shorter hair! During a divorce, a bereavement or a health crisis we will experience a maelstrom of emotions: and one-minute chopping all our hair

off will feel like the best decision in the world, but the next minute, when we look in the mirror and see a total stranger staring back at us it might feel terrifying. Yet hair is an important aspect of how we express who we are and how we would like to be seen. Changing our hair is one of the easiest ways to send a signal to the world that we have changed. It can be a great tool to help us shed an outgrown ‘self’. My friend shed her shoulder-length blonde hair for a pixie crop shortly after she gave birth to twins. She felt she needed freedom from her hair care routine, so she could spend more time with her babies. For her it was freeing to be able to wake, shower and be ready to go in minutes. I had my tousled waist-length hair cut to a chic bob when I started my first proper job in journalism. I felt like I needed to create a bit of distance between ‘student me’ and ‘professional me’. Like the caterpillar shedding the chrysalis I was ready to be someone new and the har salon was my chrysalis of choice. So, the next time you collapse into the hairdresser’s comfy chair intent on an image overhaul, just pause for a second and ask yourself why, and whether now is the best time.

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By Tracey Anderson 27

Local News

Do you have chronic pain, extreme fatigue or brain fog?

The Herts MS Therapy Centre is here for everyone. We welcome people with any challenging health condition. We’ve been helping as many people as we can for over 30 years. Extreme fatigue and chronic pain can result from many conditions, including Cancer, Stroke, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and ME – and many others. If you, or someone you know, lives with long term pain or fatigue – from any condition - maybe we can help them to gain more energy and feel less pain. How we help… A range of services is available at our Centre in Letchworth. Our therapies include: • Physiotherapy – to optimise mobility and independence • Exercise Therapy – specialist support for maximum strength and stamina • Oxygen Therapy – to promote healing, increase energy and reduce pain • APS Pain Clinic – to reduce pain, improve sleep quality and boost energy “I was struggling to cope with my fatigue and it was weighing me down mentally. The treatment was a ray of hope that resulted in new friends and a better quality of life.” Charlotte D We also offer a domiciliary service. A Physiotherapist and/or an Exercise Professional can come to your home to do an assessment or provide a treatment. Please ask us about the areas we cover. First time free! You are welcome to try any of our services for free – simply use the voucher below… or give it to someone you know. Call Claire to find out more and book your session: 01462 684 214 or email: enquiries123@hmstc.net

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Health

How did you sleep? “There are twelve hours in the day, and above fifty in the night.” (Marie de Rabutin-Chantal) Sorry to be nosey, but did you sleep well last night? The answer to this will have huge implications not just for getting through your day today, but also for your future physical and mental health. In our caffeinated, over-stimulated, 24-hour day world, only a lucky few of us seem to escape the all-enveloping clutches of disrupted and inadequate sleep. The consequences are simply staggering. An explosion of biological evidence in recent years shows that inadequate sleep ambushes your immune system, even increasing your risk of cancer. While you sleep, your body produces cytokines, which help to fight off infections and illness. Sleep loss also puts the health of our hearts at serious risk; short sleep increases the likelihood of our coronary arteries getting blocked, leading to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and heart failure. Insufficient sleep is also known to increase our risk for weight gain and obesity (short sleep raises the levels of the hormone ghrelin that makes us feel hungry) and diabetes (too little sleep disrupts our blood sugar levels). Our brains are extremely vulnerable too. Recent neuroscientific evidence shows that getting too little sleep across your lifespan will significantly raise your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Our mental health is jeopardised; sleep problems contribute to depression, anxiety, even suicidality. Too little sleep affects our ability to remember, as suggested by studies showing that sleep helps consolidate long-term memory. Neuroimaging studies have established that just one night of sleep deprivation impairs learning and encoding -related activity in the hippocampus, a structure that is associated with memory and is located deep within the middle of the brain. Other cognitive abilities are also in the line of fire, especially attention i.e. our ability to focus, to ignore distractions, and to multi-task. Neuroimaging research shows that activity in the frontal parts of our brain during attention tasks is reliably affected by sleep loss. Tragically, these attention deficits are implicated in the huge numbers of traffic accidents and fatalities caused

by sleep-deprived driving. Sleep loss triggers changes in how we process our emotions too. Only one night of sleep deprivation resulted in a 60% increase in reactivity of the part of the brain responsible for processing emotion (especially fear and anxiety): the amygdala. This occurred in response to negative images such as spiders, snakes, and mutilations. The reward system of our brain also gets highjacked by a bad night’s sleep. Does reaching for another chocolate when you’re tired sound familiar? The reward network in the brain also shows sensitivity to sleep deprivation; this susceptibility is due to altered function of the dopamine neurotransmitter and leads to changes in risk-taking behaviours, sensation-seeking, and impulsivity. So what can poor sleepers do about this quite alarming constellation of risks? Thankfully, there are many different ways to improve our sleep. In my next article here next month, I will set out the methods that are backed up by solid scientific evidence for getting a restorative night of sweet, precious sleep.

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

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Quirky Britain

By Kate McLelland

Fancy dressers: eccentrics who stood out from the crowd One of the easiest ways to spot a true eccentric is by the way they dress. Some of our greatest British eccentrics were people who ignored contemporary dress codes, choosing instead to wear outfits that made them stand out from the crowd. Beau Brummell – the first ‘Dandy’ Although Regency dandy Beau Brummell went to extraordinary and often bizarre lengths to maintain his high profile lifestyle, he was a true innovator when it came to men’s fashion. When George Bryan Brummell (born 1778) joined the Prince of Wales’ personal regiment as a lowranking officer, he did little to distinguish himself. Instead, he relied on his charisma (and his growing friendship with the Prince of Wales) to pretty much do as he pleased, ignoring his military duties. Once he had left the army, and with the Prince’s continuing support, George became a formidable trendsetter. He revolutionised male fashion, rejecting the conspicuously showy outfits of the time in favour of skin-tight trousers (worn minus underwear) combined with a perfectly tailored, dark-coloured coat. His grooming process was so complex and fastidious that each morning a fascinated crowd of onlookers would watch his careful, five hour bathing and dressing routine. The last item to be added was his boots: polished with champagne, naturally.

Beau Brummell revolutionised male fashion, rejecting the showy outfits of the time in favour of skintight trousers Unfortunately George’s relationship with the Prince Regent didn’t last and drink, disease and gambling eventually caused his downfall. It was a sad end for such a celebrated trendsetter, but his legacy – namely our love of bathing and the fashion for dark, tailored mens’ suits – has lasted right through to the present day. Lady Hester Stanhope – a female Indiana Jones Socialite, adventurer and traveller Lady Hester Stanhope (1776-1839) was made of tough stuff. After losing everything in a shipwreck, she hitched a lift to Cairo on a British frigate, went shopping in the local bazaar and turned up to meet Egyptian officials wearing an unmistakably male outfit: embroidered

Lady Hester Stanhope

trousers, a waistcoat and a jacket, with a sabre hanging at her waist. Lady Hester was a fearless and intelligent young woman who excelled as a political hostess for her uncle, British Prime Minster William Pitt the Younger. In her thirties she developed an urge to travel and embarked on a long sea voyage to the Middle East, where she led several archaeological expeditions. On a visit to Syria she dressed as a Bedouin and used a caravan of 22 camels to carry her baggage, which earned her the name of ‘Queen Hester’ among locals. Hester ended her days as a recluse in a remote Lebanese monastery, where she wielded great power and helped many refugees escape religious persecution. Poor Hester would no doubt prefer that we celebrated her for her archaeological achievements and good works, but – perhaps inevitably – it seems she’s best remembered for her exotic dress sense. When we say someone is ‘eccentric’ it suggests their behaviour is weird and wacky, but the word (derived from Latin) simply means ‘away from the centre’. Both these larger-than life personalities were innovators who broke away from convention and changed people’s perceptions, so let’s hope we can continue to celebrate such gloriously ‘off-centre’ behaviour long into the future.

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Food & Drink

The Packed Lunch Problem

By Tracey Anderson

I decided to save money and eat more healthily in 2019 so I knew I would have to start packing my own lunches. It’s taken until now really get on board with this idea. Here are the problems I came up against and how I solved them. Problem 1. It takes too much time to pack a lunch. It was such a faff...or was it? Solution: I timed how long it took to walk to the deli or drive to the garage, wait in the queue to be served and get back to work. Then I timed how long it took me to prepare a lunch the night before. Turns out making your own lunch is way faster! Who knew? Problem: I’m hungry again by mid-afternoon. Solution: Pack more food! DUH! I make sure I had a sugar-free protein bar, a banana, or a bag of nuts in reserve in case I had a mid-afternoon dip. That way I don’t head for the bakery or start mainlining chocolates from the ever-present boxes around our office. Problem: Formulaic lunches. When I was at primary school my mum packed me a ham sandwich, an apple, some carrot sticks and a wagon wheel, pretty much every day. When I started making my own lunches, I used the same formula (minus the wagon wheel). Solution: What did I enjoy eating? I like leftover casseroles and risottos, so I made extra. I like open sandwiches, Danish style, on Rye bread so I bought the ingredients, and I arranged lunch swaps with a friend, so she caters Thursday and I do Friday. A little creative thinking keeps things interesting and I haven’t missed nipping to the deli. In fact, we walk round the park instead so we’re getting some exercise too.

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Finance

By Ann Haldon

Spring Clean Your Finances for a Richer 2019 Spring is the season when we give our homes a good clean and tidy up, so why not do the same with your finances? There are many ways to take control of your financial life, and the majority of them are so easy it’s worth looking at all the possibilities. Get organised -Financial decluttering offers a clearer view of your overall financial situation and valuable insight into unhealthy spending habits. Begin by finding all your relevant paperwork such as mortgage statements, insurance policies, credit agreements and utility bills, and decide which documents you need to keep. Reduce outgoings and make paying easier - Not only can you save money by cancelling subscriptions that you no longer need, sorting out your paperwork highlights any excessively high payments you’ve been making and allows for tighter financial control. You can sign up to receive paperless bills and bank statements, which helps to declutter your physical living space.

Becoming debt-free is a liberating and important element of a financial spring clean Make a new budget - Whether or not you already operate a budget, making a new one can instil fresh life into your finances. Ensure you factor in all important annual events including birthdays, Christmas and holidays in the budget, so you arrive at an accurate plan for monthly expenditure.

Plan finances ahead - If you’re planning a big purchase in 2019 – say a holiday or a car - in conjunction with your new budget, saving a little each month can help to achieve your goals without going into debt. Maybe you could open a new savings account for each prospective large purchase or use a traditional piggy bank at home and watch your savings grow the old-fashioned way. Track your spending - With so many personal finance apps and tools now available, you can track your spending wherever you are. You might prefer to use a spreadsheet, or write down your spending in a notebook. Whatever you do, keeping track of your spend helps you stick to your budget and deal confidently with the inevitable financial setbacks we all experience. Tackle debt - By tackling debt, you free yourself from the threat of serious financial difficulty and provide new opportunities to save. You might choose to use the ‘debt snowball’ method of paying off the smallest debts first or get stuck right in and pay off the largest debt. However you decide to approach it, becoming debt-free is liberating and an important element of a financial spring clean. Overhauling your finances can make a significant impact on life in general and helps you to make the most of your money. Start your spring clean this month and you’ll be reaping the rewards not only in 2019, but for many years to come. http://tiny.cc/Clearscore-finance http://tiny.cc/Goodhousekeep

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Garden

Remarkable Raspberries By Pippa Greenwood www.pippagreenwood.com

If you want to grow soft fruit then I recommend raspberries for value, reliability and ease of growth. The canes, best bought bare root, are available now, so here are my top tips for planting and growing great raspberries. Raspberries like moisture, without being soggy around the roots. Improve light and sandy soil by digging in plenty of bulky organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure before planting. Summer-fruiting raspberries crop in midsummer, while autumn fruiters crop from the end of summer, often until the first frosts, so if possible plant a few of each. There are different varieties of summer and autumn-fruiting raspberries, and the ‘Fallgold’ variety even has yellow fruits. If your soil is heavy and wet, and if it is alkaline or chalky, summer raspberries may struggle, so grow autumn fruiters as they can withstand the adverse conditions.

Autumn fruiting raspberries will crop until the first frosts First, choose a sunny, sheltered spot and weed thoroughly so the raspberry canes are not competing with weeds for moisture and nutrients. If your garden is very hot and sunny in the summer then light shade for the raspberries from a nearby tree is recommended; otherwise, they like sunshine. Summer-fruiting raspberries need a support system – sturdy posts at a spacing of about 1.8m

(6ft) and galvanized wires at a spacing of about 30cm (12in) will do the trick. Autumn-fruiting raspberries should be fine without support but you can tie them in if you wish. The canes are available now and in their ‘dormant’ state (looking like a bundle of sticks) respond well to planting now. Space the canes 40-45cm (15-17in) apart and allow about 2m (6ft 6in) between rows. Dig in plenty of well-rotted manure and plant each cane at a depth of 5-8cm (2-3in), spreading the roots out well so they establish better. Firm the canes in then cut each one back to about 25cm (10in) above ground level and water in well if the soil is dry. Summer-fruiting raspberries fruit on the previous year’s growth, so planting now will be much better in 2020 onwards than this year. Autumn fruiters produce their crop on the same year’s growth, so expect a decent crop this autumn and heavier ones from 2020. Mulch raspberries each spring with well-rotted manure. Once finished cropping, cut the fruitbearing canes of summer-fruiting varieties back to ground level, and tie the newly formed canes to the wires ready for next year. With autumn-fruiting raspberries, cut back the old canes at the end of winter and the new canes will appear in spring. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com and join ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ for great vegetable plants and weekly advice from Pippa, stylish cloches, the fantastic SpeedHoe, gardening tools, Grower Frames and signed books! Or book Pippa for a gardening talk at your gardening club.

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Garden View

My Gardening Valentine By Rachael Leverton

In the run-up to Valentine’s Day someone always asks me what they should buy for the gardener in their life. It’s a tricky question to answer. Many people think we must like cut flowers, but actually I’m not keen and most gardeners I know aren’t either. We have gardens full of the things after all, and we tend to prefer our plants living and breathing in their natural environment, rather than imported from abroad and wrapped in cellophane. Unless you know a bit about gardening, and the tastes of your own particular gardener you’re probably best-off avoiding plants too. The nongreen-fingered venture into dangerous territory when they try to buy plants because there are so many variables. Will it suit the soil? Is it too invasive? Will it poison the gardener’s dog…or children…eek? It’s a thorny issue (pardon the pun) so here is my go-to gift list guaranteed to make you the Valentine hero of your gardening amour. Don’t buy a sweatshirt which declares ‘headgardener. They are naff, and most gardeners prefer old, comfy clothes which do the job better. However, if you present your gardener with a tough tunic or gardening apron, which is thornproof, and which has lots of deep pockets to house secateurs and trowels, they will love you forever. Then there are wellies. Who knew wellies could be romantic? But gardening folk drool over wellies the way Supermodels drool over Jimmy Choos. And there’s so much wellie-choice now. We all prefer something with a thick sole but there are bright and colourful wellies and traditional ones.

For the ultimate in warmth and breathability I can recommend a proper Gore-Tex pair...sheer luxury. Mine remain the favourite Valentine gift my husband ever bought me. He knows how to romance a woman! A proper long-necked watering can, with a brass rose will also earn you Valentine brownie points. Bigger isn’t necessarily better though unless your Valentine boasts big biceps! Watering cans are heavy when full. I find 3-4 litres is about the right size. A bunch of long-stemmed red roses will set you back at least £40 and they might last a few days. For a similar price you can buy the gardener in your life Felco secateurs (with Valentine red handles) and they’ll last forever. I know which I’d prefer. Garden trugs are so practical. Most gardeners I know would be delighted to receive one. The trug is a great gift but even better when filled with a few gardening goodies such as packets of seed, water retaining granules, plant food etc. You could add some hand tools too, such as a trowel and a fork. Make sure they are stainless steel and have long handles for ease of use. And insulated mug or a good flask will always warm the heart of your Valentine because hot drinks don’t remain hot for long outside, even on a warm day. Finally, don’t forget gardening vouchers. Often us gardeners spot the perfect plant or gardening accessory when we’re strapped for cash, so vouchers are a perfect gift to save for a rainy day... and gardeners love rainy days, Valentine’s or not.

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Local News

Greensand Country Announces 2019 Festival Following the huge success of the first Greensand Country Festival in 2018, the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership is planning an even BIGGER and BETTER programme of events for 2019, and extending the Festival to run throughout May. The Greensand Country Festival, from 1 – 31 May, will encompass a wide variety of events, provided by our partners, local businesses, special interest groups, clubs and visitor attractions across the landscape, from Leighton Buzzard to Gamlingay. The Festival is a celebration of Greensand Country, helping to encourage those living within this distinct landscape to get out and explore the beautiful countryside on their doorstep. There are a variety of events already scheduled, including open gardens, churchyard tours, history talks, nature walks, village treasure trails, introductory sessions for bowls, photo and poetry competitions, art workshops, children’s activities and traditional country crafts. Lindsay Measures, Events and Engagements Officer at the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership

explains: “We were overwhelmed with the fantastic response to our first Greensand Country Festival and have therefore decided to extend the programme this year. With family fun, trail runs, countryside walks, horse-rides, guided trains and nature activities, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.” The Greensand Country Festival is a great opportunity for local organisations and businesses to promote our shared landscape for the benefit of everyone. If you have an idea for an event or would like to run an activity, please contact lindsay@ greensandcountry.com The Greensand Country Landscape Partnership is led by the Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity and the Greensand Trust and funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. It is made possible by National Lottery players. Without them we couldn’t fund the project. For further information about the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership visit www.greensandcountry.com and for regular updates follow @greensandsocial on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Employment

Get that Job

By Hilary Bennett

Avoid common cover letter errors

Don’t use the same cover letter for every single job. If you send identical cover letters for every single role, it may save you time, but it won’t get you the job. Generic phrases which offer no specificity about the company, industry, or role you’re applying for indicate lack of interest to most hiring managers. Always refer to the job by its title and description and explain how your skills could benefit the specific role and company, not just the industry as a whole. Never talk about your personal life, or share irrelevant details in a professional document, it definitely won’t improve your employability. Don’t mention the reasons for leaving your current job or give overly detailed justifications for career breaks. Keep to the point and focus on the job you’re applying for. Focus on what the employer wants, not what you want. Avoid detailing your hopes and dreams and don’t explain what you’d get out of the job. A cover letter isn’t about being able to fulfil

your objectives, it’s about proving to a recruiter than you can fulfil theirs. So, talk about your achievements, skills, and experience only if they relate directly to the role and emphasise what they would get from employing you, not vice versa. If you lack experience in a certain area don’t focus on that, instead focus on your strong points which are a good fit for the job. Desperation is different to enthusiasm! Begging for the job isn’t going to add anything to your selling potential. Keep over-the-top adjectives and hyperbole to a minimum because there’s a fine line between showing a genuine interest and trying too hard. Don’t forget to proofread and check for grammatical errors.

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Fun Quiz - Poetry 1. In the poem The Rime Of The Ancient Mariner, what type of bird does the mariner shoot and kill? 2. The novel Tender Is The Night by F. Scott Fitzgerald took its name from a line in which famous poem by John Keats? 3. What type of poem shares its name with the third most populated city in the Republic of Ireland? 4. Well known for the many love poems she wrote for other women, on what island was the ancient Greek poet Sappho born? 5. As well as the title characters, what other two types of animal feature in Edward Lear’s poem The Owl And The Pussycat? 6. Celebrating the life and poetry of Robert Burns, Burns Night occurs on the 25th of which calendar month? 7. The epic poem The Iliad by Homer is set during a ten-year siege of which city? 8. Inspired by the final two lines of a poem by William Ernest Henley, “I am” is the motto of which international sporting event? 9. What is unusual about the entire content of a poem by Demetri Martin called Dammit, I’m Mad? 10. In a famous poem by Rudyard Kipling, complete the last line of the verse that begins “Man’s timid heart is bursting with the things he must not say, for the Woman that God gave him isn’t his to give away, but when hunter meets with husbands, each confirms the other’s tale”... 1. An albatross 2. Ode To A Nightingale 3. Limerick 4. Lesbos (leading to origin of the term “lesbians”) 5. Pig (whose ring in its nose is used as a wedding ring) and Turkey (who marries them) 6. January 7. Troy 8. The Invictus Games 9. It is a palindrome (i.e. it reads the same backwards as it does forwards, as does its title) 10. The female of the species is more deadly than the male

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Pets

Rehoming Appeal Disney

This is Disney, a very loving 3 year old Lurcher who likes people and other dogs. She walks well on the lead and is house trained. Like most Lurchers, Disney has a high chase instinct, so she would not be suitable to rehome with cats or other small mammals. She will also need to be kept on a lead when not in an enclosed area as she will chase any small creature, including cats. She will need a large garden to run around in, which must have an extra high secure fence as she has no problem in jumping fences of 8 ft. or less. Disney is becoming depressed in the kennels, so if you can offer this lovely girl a home, please contact Julie on 01763 289827. Any potential home will be vetted by one of our volunteers. Alternatively, please e-mail Philippa at info.rats@gmail.com who will be pleased to forward your enquiry on to the team. View other small mammals, dogs and cats currently in our care for re-homing on our website: www.rats-animalrescue.co.uk or facebook: www.facebook.com/ratscharity You can also see photographs and details of the animals in our care in our charity shop in Hitchin Street, Biggleswade SG18 8AX. Open Monday to Saturday from 10.00 am until 4.00 pm.

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Pets

World Spay Day The last Tuesday of February, every year, is World Spay Day. Originally started in 1995 by the Doris Day Animal League in America, it is now recognised and supported by animal charities in 70 countries worldwide, and this year on Tuesday 26th February, it celebrates its 25th anniversary. The purpose of World Spay Day is to raise awareness of the importance of neutering and encourage more owners to snip or spay their cat. It is estimated that there are between 9.5 and 11.6 million owned cats in the UK, 75% of these cats are acquired as kittens. Although a large majority of these will be neutered, sadly not all are which has lead to the cat population in the UK reaching crisis point. The National RSPCA reported that in October the RSPCA as a whole took in more than 12,000 cats in just four months. Although not a direct solution, owners can help tackle the cat crisis by ensuring their cats and kittens are neutered. There are many common myths surrounding cat neutering, the most prominent being that cats should be allowed to have a litter of kittens before spaying. This is not true. Allowing a cat ‘one litter’ gives a very small window to neuter because of the need to wait until her kittens have been weaned; by which time the cat may be pregnant again. The probability of an unneutered cat getting pregnant is over 80% and 85% of these are either unplanned or unwanted litters. A cat or kitten can be neutered from 4 months old or otherwise determined by your vet. Although the most obvious benefit of neutering a cat

is to prevent it getting pregnant, there are actually many other positives to getting a cat snipped or spayed; so here are the facts. • Female cats are spayed, meaning the womb and ovaries are removed • Males are castrated or snipped, meaning the testicles are removed • Spaying prevents females coming into season, where they would ordinarily attract unwanted male attention • Neutering prevents the risk of testicular cancer in males and uterus infections and cancers in females. • Castration prevents males urine marking and roaming • Neutering will protect cats from the disease FIV • Neutering in some cases can also reduce the risk of a cat being stolen for breeding To promote the importance of cat neutering, most animal charities have schemes in place to support the public and their cats, and our local Branch is no different! RSPCA Bedfordshire North are offering cat neutering vouchers to the public to help with the cost of neutering, and support the cat crisis. The vouchers are for the value of £30 to go towards the cost of a spay or neuter at one of our participating vets and are available to members of the public in receipt of benefits. If you would like support getting your cat neutered, or have a general enquiry regarding spaying or castrating, please contact the Branch via email info@rspcabedsnorth.org.uk

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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. 56

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Three Counties Radio

Caramel Drip Cake

As we head into a New Year, this is a show-stopper cake to banish all the blues. What is great about it is how you can make it look so spectacular with relatively easy techniques. It’s the creation of a lovely cake maker, Hayley Pfeifer, from the Dunstable Cake House, who is a regular on my Weekend Kitchen show. She likes her cakes big, bold and glamorous and this caramel drip cake fits the mould perfectly! For the sponge: 450g caster sugar 450g self-raising flour 450g butter 450g eggs (approx. 8 Large Eggs) A tablespoon of store-bought caramel from a jar A little drizzle of caramel flavouring Buttercream 500g butter 1000g icing sugar Drizzle of caramel Flavouring Extra caramel from the store-bought jar for filling and drip effect Flake chocolate for decorating Pre-heat oven to 160C/ Gas Mark 3

1. Line 3 x 8” tins 2. Mix the butter and caster sugar together until creamy and fluffy. Add the sieved flour gradually, then add the eggs, the caramel and flavouring. 3. Divide the mix between the tins, then put them into the oven. 4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a skewer comes out of the sponges clean. 5. Leave the cakes to cool on a wire rack. 6. Mix the butter and icing sugar together for the buttercream filling and add a drizzle of caramel flavouring. 7. Take one cake. Spread caramel on top, then buttercream.Top it with another cake, then repeat the caramel and buttercream filling.Top with the last cake. 8. Add buttercream to the top and sides and create a smooth finish using a side scraper or a pallet knife dipped into some hot water. 9. Pour lots of caramel onto the top centre of the cake and use a pallet knife to ease the caramel towards the edges to create the drips. Be creative - it’ll look different every time. 10. Sprinkle some chocolate flakes on the top and it’s ready to serve.

Hear wonderful recipes on Nick Coffer’s Weekend Kitchen every Sunday morning on BBC Three Counties radio at 11am. You can also join Nick every weekday afternoon at midday for brilliant local guests with great stories to tell and all the music you want for your early afternoon.

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Local News

Reasons why you should join a WI in 2019!

No matter if you’re from Baldock area or somewhere else in the UK, joining a WI could be a great thing for you to do in 2019, and here are some reasons why: • You will be part of something really special. The WI is the largest voluntary women’s organisation in the UK, which is something we are very proud of, so we would love to see more women joining, or even more WIs being set up! • Your voice will be heard. By joining a WI, you will be able to make a real impact on local, national and international issues. • You will have the opportunity to learn, develop and pass on your skills. At the WI, we are all about sharing our knowledge, so if you have some kitchen secrets, craft tips, garden hints or anything you feel would benefit a group, you would be able to share! • You will be able to attend at least 11 monthly meetings, with the added opportunity to take part in other additional events, trips, clubs and activities that we run. • You will have access to WI Life, the WI membership magazine. They release 8 issues a year that are packed full of WI news and event information. • You will be given a membership discount on a wide variety of courses at Denman (http://www.denman.org. uk) the WI’s own residential college in Oxfordshire. There are courses on almost anything you can think of so look on the website. • You can get to know like-minded women in your area. The WI is a great way to meet new people and make friends that are interested in similar things to you. If you’re interested in finding out more about the WI organisation you can look at the national WI website – https://www.thewiorg.uk. Or you can contact Baldock and Clothall WI on baldockclothallwi@hotmail.co.uk Or look at our facebook page Baldockclothallwi. It would be a great to do or even look into, so why not take the leap?

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Local News

2019 Wildlife Photography Competition This year’s Wildlife Trust BCN Photography Competition is now open and closes 15 April (much earlier than last year). With generous sponsorship from Fuji, the prizes are significantly more prestigious (eg camera equipment worth £300 for first prize) and Fujifilm will produce large scale prints of the top three winning images in super quality. As with the last two years, a selection of the best images will be chosen to feature in the Trust’s 2020 Wildlife Calendar. The theme for 2019 is Contrast in Nature, wide open to interpretation with the aim of inspiring interesting juxtapositions. It could mean incorporating a high contrast technique – say crisp contrasted with fuzzy focus, comparing large with small, male with female or capturing something wild in a contrastingly urban background – or anything else that works. The theme is deliberately very broad and designed to evoke a broad range of interpretation; the judges will be looking for unusual, innovative images which stand out from the crowd. This year’s Wildlife Trust BCN Photography Competition is now open and closes 15 April (much earlier than last year). With generous sponsorship from Fuji, the prizes are significantly more

Last year’s stunning winning entry Little Owl, Sharnbrook, Bedfordshire by Simon Wantling prestigious (eg camera equipment worth £300 for first prize) and Fujifilm will produce large scale prints of the top three winning images in super quality. As with the last two years, a selection of the best images will be chosen to feature in the Trust’s 2020 Wildlife Calendar. All photos must be taken in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire or Northamptonshire. For further info, terms and conditions, please visit Wildlifebcn website www.wildlifebcn.org/get-involved/photo-competition

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n O s ’ t Wha In February

Deadline for What’s On entries is the 12th of the previous month. What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.com

1 & 2 February “It’s A Panto Jim... But Not As We Know it” 7.30pm nightly & Saturday 2pm Henlow Parish Hall Tickets £8, £7 & £5 Concessions available for Thurs eve & Sat matinee. Henlow Village Drama Group pantomime. Tickets available from Sue Moore at 80 High Street, Henlow. Tel: 01462 815392

3 February Charity Fun Quiz Night 8pm Five Bells, Henlow Village £2 per person. In aid of SERV Medical Bikes. Teams of up to 8 members. Cash prize for the winning team and a suitable prize for last place. Plus some ‘spot prizes’ and raffle. Tel: John 07511 631045 Email: quizzesforcharity@outlook.com

1 & 2 February Jack & the Beanstalk Doors/Bar open 6.45pm, curtain up 7.30pm on Fri 1 & Sat 2 and at 1.15pm/2pm on Sat 2 Henlow Theatre, Hitchin Road, Henlow Camp Tickets £9, Concessions £7. Family/group rates on request. Henlow Amateur Theatrical Society. A traditional family pantomime by Ben Crocker. Tel: Tickets 01462 700785 or 07876 353677 Web: www.henlowtheatre.org.uk

4, 11, 18 & 25 February Moo Music Sandy, Biggleswade & Shefford 10-10.40am Shefford Baptist Church Music and movement classes for 0-5 year olds. Original moosic, lots of moovement, dancing, sensory and role play. First session free. Tel: 07981 825654 Email: Heather sandymoo@moo-music.co.uk Web: www.moo-music.co.uk/sbs Facebook: www.facebook.com/moomusicsandy

1 February RSPB Hitchin & Letchworth Local Group 7.30pm ‘The Settlement’, Nevells Road, Letchworth Garden City Local group members free, Visitors £3. ‘Birds: their Hidden World’ with Peter Holden MBE. Peter worked for the RSPB for over 40 years. Tel: 01763 249459 Email: martinrjspc@hotmail.com

4, 11, 18 & 25 February Baby Rhyme Time 10.30-11am Letchworth Library Free event. Baby Rhyme Times are a fun half hour session of songs and rhymes suitable for babies and toddlers of all ages.

1, 8, 15 & 22 February Baldock Health Walk 11am Tesco car park, 58 High Street, Baldock Mind in Herts Health Walk every Friday. Tel: Stephanie Flint 01438 369215 Email: stephanie.flint@mindinherts.org.uk Web: www.mindinherts.org.uk 1, 8, 15 & 22 February Springfield House Friday Bridge Club 1.30pm Springfield House (the home of the Old Stevenage Community Centre) To play cut-in Chicago Bridge. Play is informal and friendly. Tel: Richard Bean 01438 221517 1, 8, 15 & 22 February Rainmakers International Folk Dance Club 8-10pm The Parish Hall, Broadway, Letchworth We meet most Fridays. Folk dances of all styles from many countries around the world. Tel: Roger 01438 812766 or Jill 01462 457791 Web: www.rainmakers.org.uk 2 February The Signals Museum Open Day 10am-4pm The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open to the public. Entry is free but official photo ID is required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom. Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 2 February Weekend Stories 10.30-11am Baldock Library Free event. Stories chosen are aimed at toddlers and preschool children.

4, 11, 18 & 25 February Café Connect 1-4pm Arlesey Resource Centre, High Street, Arlesey An exciting new community project in Arlesey! We want to bring the community together with a series of events chosen by YOU. Come along to meet new people, share your skills, explore your interests, This project is delivered by Community Action Bedfordshire and NOAH Enterprise, and funded by Central Bedfordshire Council and Public Health. Tel: Priya 07814 704203 for more info 4, 11, 18 & 25 February Staplers Country Dance Club 8-10pm St John’s Community Hall, Hitchin Staplers is a social folk dance club. It’s easy to start as all the dances are walked through first. We are a friendly group and you will be made very welcome. Car parking is available next to the hall. We meet every Monday apart from bank holidays and the school summer holidays. Tel. 01462 895567 or 01462 624144 Web: www.staplers.org.uk 4, 11, 18 & 25 February Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-11pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Branch Out meets every Monday night and is a medium-sized Social Club for single people. It was formed in 1995 to bring together single, divorced, widowed and separated people, aged 40 upwards, from the Herts, Beds and Bucks area, to socialise and enjoy one another’s company. The club organises regular events, such as dinners, Sunday walks, theatre and concert visits, day and weekend trips and holidays. Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 Web: www.branch-out.org.uk

5, 12, 19 & 26 February Stevenage Bridge Club 7.30pm Priory Nursery, Stanmore Road, Old Stevenage To play Duplicate Bridge. A host system is run to find partners, if required. A wide level of ability play at the club. Tel: Phil Cooper 07957 813434 6 February North Herts Association of the National Trust 7.30pm Christchurch, Bedford Road, Hitchin Visitors £2 on the door. ‘Inspirational Women’ by author Damien O’Dell. A talk about women who shaped and changed our society against the odds and their legacy, including Queen Elizabeth I, Octavia Hill and Odette Churchill. Non-members welcome. Membership of the National Trust not necessary. Tel: Secretary Mrs Colette House 01462 815585 Email: colettehouse@gmail.com 6, 13, 20 & 27 February Baby Rhyme Time 10.30-11am Baldock Library Free event – voluntary contribution of £1 per family welcomed. Baby Rhyme times are a fun half hour session of songs and rhymes suitable for babies and toddlers of all age. 6, 13, 20 & 27 February Toddler Tales 2.15-2.45pm Letchworth Library Free event. Toddler Tales is a mix of lively stories and rhymes. The stories chosen are aimed at toddlers and preschool children. 6, 13, 20 & 27 February Vivace Choir 7.30-9.30pm Edgeworth House, 121 High Street, Arlesey We are looking for keen singers to join our fun and friendly choir. Find out more about the choir and its concerts online. Web: www.vivacechoir.co.uk 7 February The Arts Society North Herts Talk 11am & 2pm The Spirella Ballroom, Letchworth £7 on the door. One-hour talk by Frank Woodgate on ‘American Realism in the 30s and 40s’ looking at the paintings and photographs of America in the period leading up to the depression. All visitors welcome. Email: theartssociety.nh@gmail.com Web: www.theartscocietynorthhert.org.uk 7 February Baldock Floral Society 7.15pm The Community Centre, Baldock Visitors £6. Flower arranging demonstration by Pam Courtney. Raffle of the arrangements and an interval for refreshments. Sales table of flower arranging sundries. 7, 14, 21 & 28 February Toddler Tales 2.15-2.45pm Baldock Library Free event. Toddler Tales is a mix of lively stories and rhymes. The stories chosen are aimed at toddlers and preschool children.

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n O s ’ t Wha In February

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

7, 14, 21 & 28 February Baldock Community Orchestra 7.15pm Knights Templar School (Room CS1), Baldock £7 per week or 10 week term £50. Tel: Rachel Dawson 07818 480332

7, 14, 21 & 28 February Roundabouters Country Dance Club 8-10pm Friends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage Friendly club for English country dancing. All dances walked through; club and guest callers ensure a varied programme. Live music from Carousel Band on 7th Feb and AGM on 21st Feb. Tel: 01438 727239 Email: roundabouters@live.co.uk Web: www.roundabouters.org.uk 7, 14, 21 & 28 February Stevenage Plus Social Group 8.15pm for 8.30pm Holiday Inn Express Stevenage £2 - first night free. Stevenage Plus Social Group is a fun and friendly social group with members in their 30s and 40s from Stevenage, North Herts and surrounding areas. We have a varied programme of events. Tel: 01438 231550. Email: welcome@stevenage.plus Web: www.stevenageplus.co.uk 7, 14, 21 & 28 February Sapphire Social Club 8.30pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin We are a small and friendly group for single people generally aged 50 and above. We offer a variety of social events during the month and the opportunity to meet and make new friends. Tel: Joyce 07952 678021 or Ian 07900 890583 Web: www.sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk 8 February Unicorn Ceilidh 7.30-11pm St Mary’s Church Hall, Church Street, Baldock Adults £10, Concessions and family tickets available. With Urban Folk Theory and Barry Goodman. Ceilidh dances are and addictive! Clear instructions from the caller allow anyone to join in. Our combination of the finest live bands, top callers and a licensed bar guarantee an excellent, fun-filled evening for all. Advance purchase is recommended. Web: www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk Email: enquiries@unicornceilidhs.org.uk Tickets: www.ticketsource.co.uk/unicorn-ceilidhs 12 February Transition Tuesday: How will Herts Transport Plan affect Letchworth? 7.30-9.30pm Mrs Howard Memorial Hall, Norton Way South, Letchworth Free admission. Find out about local community gardening projects and join our discussion on the potential for new community gardens in Letchworth. Transition Town Letchworth will hold a short AGM at the start of this event. Admission free but a £2 donation is appreciated.

12 & 26 February Hitchin & District Probus Club 12 noon for 1pm Priory Hotel, Hitchin Social club for retired and semi-retired professional and business men which meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month for lunch. Tel: Roger Burt 01438 351891 Email: roger@mazda20.plus.com 13 February Pic-n-mix Chatter Table 10.30am-12pm Letchworth Library Free event. Have a cuppa and a chat with new people, various activities and different themes each time. Chatter Tables are being held as part of #connectinglives campaign, aimed at reducing loneliness in Letchworth. 13 February Over 60s Lunch Club 12.45pm for 1pm lunch Garden City Court, Whiteway, off Radburn Way, Letchworth Garden City £5. Second Wednesday of every month. Stay for our afternoon quiz. Lunch will be a two course hot lunch with a soft drink. Please advise any dietary requirements when booking. Everyone welcome. First lunch is free. Please call on a Monday to book your place for the Wednesday. Tel: 01462 473100 Email: garden@quantumcare.co.uk

14 February Stevenage RSPB Local Group trip to Willington 9.30am A morning walk near the river Great Ouse, with a stop half way for refreshments at Danish Camp cafe. Meet at Willington Dovecote NT car park at 9.30am. Map ref: 153/TL 106499. Postcode MK44 3PX. Tel: Leader Graham Beevor 01438 232055 14 February Baldock & Clothall WI 7.30pm United Reformed Church, Whitehorse Street, Baldock Visitors £3 including refreshment and raffle ticket Facebook: www.facebook.com/baldockclothallwi 14 February Stevenage Floral Art Society 7.45pm High Street, Methodist Church Hall Visitors very welcome. 15 February Letchworth Chamber Music Concert 7.45 pm Howgills Friends Meeting House, 42 South View Tickets £15, Students & Under 18s £7 Concert by Kate Romano (clarinet) and Simon Marlow (piano) playing works by Schumann (Fantasy Pieces for clarinet and piano), Poulenc (Sonata for clarinet and piano) and Arthur Benjamin (Le Tombeau de Ravel). Tickets available on the door. Web: www.letchworthmusicclub.co.uk

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16 February Weekend Stories 10.30-11am Letchworth Library Free event. Stories chosen are aimed at toddlers and preschool children. 17 February Hitchin & Letchworth Local Group RSPB Coach Trip Coach fares Adults £15.50 Under 18s £7.75 Abberton Reservoir EWT and Tollesbury, Essex. After spending the morning at Abberton we will continue to Tollesbury on the Blackwater estuary. Coach Pick Up Points: Letchworth: 7.45am. Hitchin: 8.00am. Stevenage: 8.10am. Tel: 01763 249459 Email: martinrjspc@hotmail.com Web: rspb.org.uk/groups/hitchinandletchworth 19 February Stevenage RSPB Local Group 7.30pm The Friends Meeting House, Cutty’s Lane, Stevenage RSPB Members £3, Non-members £3.50, Under 16s 50p. Richard Pople presents a talk entitled ‘Wings and Things of Scotland’. 20 February In and out of pictures 3.45-5pm Baldock Library £5 per person . Storytelling and illustrating for children 5+ with ex Baldock resident author and illustrator, James Mayhew. Tickets available from the library and online. Funded by Councillor Michael Muir to celebrate Baldock library’s 30th birthday. Tel: 0300 123 4049 for further info Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/libraries 20 February James Mayhew author talk 7.15-8.30pm Baldock Library £7, Concessions £5. Bestselling author and illustrator James Mayhew talks about his career, with a story thrown in. Tickets available from the library and online. Funded by Councillor Michael Muir to celebrate Baldock library’s 30th birthday. Tel: 0300 123 4049 for further info Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/libraries 24 February Stevenage RSPB Local Group trip to Marston Vale Country Park 9.30am £2.50, Concessions £1.75 for wetland nature reserve A morning visit to the park south west of Bedford. Meet in the car park at 9.30am. OS Map Ref: 153/TL 004417. Postcode MK43 0PS. Tel: Leader Trevor Storey 01438 226014 27 February Talk by local author Liz Ellis 2-3pm Baldock Library Q+A session. ‘Where does a novel come from?’ Tickets available from the library only. Tel: 0300 123 4049 for further info Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/libraries

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Special Report

The Changing Face of Television By 1971, TV was so integral to our lives that, according to Joe Moran’s Armchair Nation, “Ten per cent of homes still had no indoor lavatory or bath, 31% had no fridge and 62% had no telephone, but only 9% had no TV.” Yet back then we were watching just 3 channels. The launch of satellite TV in the UK in 1989 brought Sky One, Sky News, Sky Movies, Eurosport, MTV, Screensport, Lifestyle and The Children’s Channel on air (along with porn channels swiftly banned by Parliament). Suddenly, we were spoilt for choice. As the ‘90s progressed, we began to pay for that extra choice but were offered more channels and access to Premier League matches. We were enjoying EastEnders, Coronation Street and Only Fools and Horses, alongside US shows destined to become iconic: Friends on Channel 4 and The X-Files and The Simpsons on Sky. Sky brought us Digital in 1999, with 160 channels and innovative interactive services, and soon after, Sky+. We could now pause live TV to make a cuppa – and record it without a VHS or DVD recorder! Telewest offered a rival digital cable subscription service while Freeview, and later Freesat, boxes offered a range of free channels (including some from Sky).

As satellite TV turns 30 in the UK, how has TV changed in those 30 years? During the noughties, we watched reality TV like Big Brother, Wife Swap and their back-to-basics

stablemates Ray Mears’ Bushcraft and Castaway 2000; fell in love with BBC’s rebooted Dr Who; and became hooked on hit dramas like Spooks (BBC), Lost (CH4) and 24 (Sky One). The talent and contest show reboot brought us the X Factor, Britain’s Got Talent, Pop Idol and Strictly Come Dancing. By 2008, there were 9 million British Sky subscribers, with 500,000 watching in HD. But the disruptive force of TV streaming was on its way. Netflix launched its UK service in 2012 and has produced original content with the hugely popular series Stranger Things. Having bought Lovefilm in 2011, Amazon morphed it into its new Prime Video streaming service in 2014 and has produced its own hits too, including Outlander and The Man in the High Castle. Both companies have also rescued programmes unpopularly dropped by other channels, such as BBC’s Ripper Street (Amazon) and Fox’s Lucifer (Netflix). Rival streamer Hulu scored its own original hit with The Handmaid’s Tale. However, ‘normal’ TV can still hold an audience, producing smart thrillers like Sherlock and Broadchurch and the unlikely hit, The Great British Bake Off, on terrestrial TV, while satellite delivers epic sci-fi and fantasy with the phenomenally successful Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead. TV has brought triumphs and tragedies such as war, the moon landing, terrorist attacks and royal weddings into our homes, as well as entertainment, and today, we don’t even need a TV ‘set’ to watch it. But if you don’t own one, then I have to ask, in the words of Joey from Friends: “What does your furniture point at?”

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Interiors By Katherine Sorrell

Displaying art in your home Make the most of your favourite paintings or photographs by integrating them within your decorating scheme. More than just a finishing touch, hanging art on your walls is the essential addition to any room, immediately transforming it into a personal space. Some would even argue that a decorating

scheme should be built around a work of art from the start. It is wise, then, not to treat art as just an afterthought, but to give as much care and attention to choosing and hanging drawings, paintings and photographs as you would to choosing fabrics and furnishings. Start by identifying the optimal locations for the works. Above the mantelpiece in the sitting room is often a good spot, but any room in which you spend a lot of time is ideal, whether it be the kitchen (away from humidity and splashes, of course), family room or conservatory, so you can enjoy a favourite piece as much as possible. Bear in mind that direct sunlight can damage precious works, so use special protective glass if necessary, or try to find a more suitable spot. Size is important. Bigger pieces, quite obviously, need an expansive space in which to shine (and enough room to step back and admire them), while smaller works may look odd when hung on their own on a large wall. The solution to the latter is either to find a niche wall on which to hang a smaller work â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perhaps above a bedside table or next to a cosy armchair â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or to create a larger grouping of pieces that work together, by colour, theme or subject matter. Pairs of complementary

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pictures make a nicely symmetrical display and work well in a traditional setting, while informal groups, perhaps with a variety of frames and hung asymmetrically, create a sense of intimacy and individuality. Another option is to group works that are the same size and shape, and framed identically, in closely packed rows, creating a formal design that is particularly well suited to a dining room or a hallway. While a white wall behind paintings or photographs confers an art-gallery style atmosphere, it is by no means the only choice of backdrop. Depending on the effect you desire, you could pick a colour from the painting in question and replicate it in the colour of your walls, or even hang works against wallpaper (again, using complementary colours). If you do not wish to draw too much attention to the walls, pick a small pattern to use as a backdrop to a sizeable work. It is always beneficial to light works of art so they can be seen properly after dark – even if it is simply a case of adjusting a table or floor lamp to cast a glow towards them. For a more formal, professional effect, custom lighting is ideal, using either traditional picture lights fitted above the work or a discreet track and spotlight. Experts recommend using LED bulbs because they don’t heat up, use little energy and are very small; it is worth experimenting with the colour ‘temperature’ of the bulb, ensuring that it is neither too ‘cold’ and white or too ‘warm’ and yellow. And if you wish to get into the real detail, choose a bulb that has excellent colour rendition (the ability to show true colours) at 95CRI or above. How high to hang? This can be tricky, and everyone will have a personal preference. It will also be dictated by the size and shape of the piece, the proportions of the room, including ceiling height, and the surroundings in general. That said, many people hang works of art higher than necessary – especially when considering that one is often sitting down when looking at them. It may help to consider that museums and galleries typically hang modern works at 1.55m to the centre line of the picture (Old Masters, if

you were wondering, go a little higher) – roughly equivalent to the average human eye line. The advent of damage-free hanging strips and hooks has revolutionised the process of picture hanging, in that if you are not happy, you can simply try again. So don’t be afraid to experiment until you get it right, and you can enjoy an impressive and attractive display of art on your walls.

1. The Island Breeze bedroom collection is available with contrasting oak tops or painted all over in a choice of contemporary colours. Chest of drawers, £699; small wardrobe with drawer, £749; low-foot bed frame, from £489; small bedside chest, £225; all The Painted Furniture Company: 01285 656 041; paintedfurnitureco.co.uk. 2. A collection of Virserum frames, from £5 each, Ikea: 020 3645 0000; ikea.com/gb. 3. The soft pinkish-brown of Temple sets this modern painting off beautifully. £48.50 for 2.5l Pure Flat Emulsion, Paint & Paper Library: 0845 880 5844; paintandpaperlibrary.com.

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Painting & Decorating Property Maintenance

Alan George Painter & Decorator Interior and Exterior Work Wallpapering and Coving Reliable and Local Specialist City & Guilds trained with 30 years experience

Quality Workmanship Papering, Coving etc. Interior and Exterior Work Free Quotations Call W Firkins & Partners Ltd 01462 814117 or 07939 267083 Est 1981 20 Clifton Road, Shefford, Beds

Sole trader No VAT Free estimates Call Alan on 01582 454604 Mob:07760198256 or E-Mail: george-a6@sky.com

IAN SIMPSON Carpentry and Joinery All aspects of carpentry work undertaken Kitchens, Bedrooms, Doors, Windows 25 years experience Free estimates Please call 01462 851695 or 07967162448 E-mail ij_simpson@hotmail.com To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

ROY HARE PLUMBING AND HEATING Est. 1972

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Januaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Puzzle Solutions and Winners Last Monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossword Winner Mrs D Roberts from St Neots Henlow Building Supplies Competition Winner Rob Lumkin from Shillington Easy

Hard

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The Villager Prize Crossword

Prize

ÂŁ25

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

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

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

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

Name: Tel:

ď&#x20AC;˘

Address:

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Books

Book Review By Kate Duggan

Accountants

This month’s books are perfect for discussing at your book club, dissecting over dinner and chatting about on social media. The Silence of the Girls By Pat Barker

The Silence of the Girls is a vivid retelling of Homer’s Iliad. However, this time the focus is on the minor characters, namely the women taken as ‘spoils of war’. Queen Briseis is taken as a sex slave by Achilles when he destroys her city. Through Briseis we hear of the other female slaves in the encampment – women who are forced to serve the men that killed their husbands, fathers, brothers and sons.

This is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay

From 100 hour weeks to moral conundrums and emergency operations, the life of a junior doctor is far from easy. Adam Kay reveals all through six years of diary entries. Surprisingly, This is Going to Hurt is an incredibly funny book, particularly the numerous footnotes explaining hospital lingo. However, Kay also gives us an insight into the stark reality of life on the frontline of the NHS.

Once Upon a River by Diane Setterfield

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Carpentry and Joinery

Tim Jordon

Carpentry and Joinery Made to measure quality timber products supply and fit. Doors, Windows, Stairs, Gates, Kitchen Worktops, Wood staining, painting and varnishing Station Road, Lower Stondon, Beds. Tel: 01462 850363 or 07544 790071

A man stumbles into The Swan inn carrying the body of what appears to be a dead girl in his arms. A few hours later, the little girl stirs. But who is she? Part adult fairy tale, part folk tale, Once Upon a River celebrates the art of storytelling and weaves numerous stories into one rich tapestry. Thoroughly enjoyable.

From just £35.00 per month plus VAT

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Classifieds Decorators

Property Maintenance R. CHAPMAN

Simon & Neil Johnston PAINTING & DECORATING

Home & Garden Services

30 Years Experience Simon 07778 861115 Neil 07879 292411 Email: simon.johnston57@ntlworld.com

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Roofing

Plastering Services

James Geekie Plastering All types of plastering - big or small Interior/Exterior Work Undertaken Re-skim Rooms, Walls, Artex & Ceilings Dry Lining and Screeding Tel: 07792 415356 or 01462 490598 Email: james.geekie@hotmail.co.uk

Plumbing and Heating

Will Writers

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The Old White Horse • 1 High Street • Biggleswade • SG18 0JE Tel: 01767 314344 www.lolineinteriors.co.uk e: dave@lolineinteriors.co.uk