Henlow July 2022 by Villager Mag

VILLAGER The

Issue 164 - July 2022

and Town

Life

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

Inside this issue

Naturalistic Planting Summer Sun Hats Win £25 in our Prize Crossword

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

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Inside this issue... Madeira The Pearl of the Atlantic

Madeira: The Pearl of the Atlantic......................................4 Staying Safe in the Sun........................................................... 8 Brewing Today: Titanic Brewery......................................... 12 How to Deal with Conflict...................................................14 Greensand Country Celebrates Annual Festival...........16 Weekend Tour Guides and Stewards - Jordan Mill.....19 Summer Sun Hats................................................................... 24 The Savvy Investor.................................................................28 Shuttleworth Events..............................................................32 Naturalistic Planting.............................................................. 35

Green Fingers........................................................................... 39 Gone to Seed!......................................................................... 42 Looking for their new forever home.............................. 45 Puzzle Page...............................................................................48 What’s On..................................................................................50 Villager Prize Crossword......................................................58 Book Review.............................................................................60 Useful Numbers...................................................................... 63

Stay Safe in the Sun

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 - Solange Hando, Kate Duggan, Trevor Langley, Sarah Davey, Gemma Brown, Jennie Billings, Caroline Knight, Alan Titchmarsh, Rachel Leverton and RSPCA

Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com Front Cover Photography: petertt Design and Artwork: Design 9 - Tel 07762 969460

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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. 3

Travel

Madeira: the pearl of the Atlantic

By Solange Hando Blessed with year-round sunshine, lush botanical gardens and world-famous levadas, Madeira is so much more than a sun, sea and sand destination – although it certainly has its fair share of beaches too. Geologically dramatic and bursting with colour, this tiny subtropical archipelago is a hit with holidaymakers from all over. Set off the west coast of Africa, Madeira is made up of four Portuguese islands, but the largest – Madeira Island – is the one the world knows and loves. This is a place where you can hike amidst lush greenery and rugged mountains in the morning, and sunbathe on black-sand beaches in the afternoon. Diverse, safe and packed with culture and history, Madeira truly has something for everyone. In case you needed any more persuasion, here are just some of the reasons to put Madeira on your travel wish list, and what not to miss while you’re there.

It’s a hiker’s paradise Hiking Madeira’s levadas is one of the island’s top activities, with thousands of people lacing up their hiking boots to discover Madeira’s secret interior each year. These irrigation canals were built to bring water from the north slopes to the south side of the island. Although still in use, they now have another purpose, providing a route for hikers to explore the island’s most dramatic landscapes. With more than 2,000km to explore at heights reaching 1,861m, there are walking trails to suit every experience level. Some of the easier routes can be found in the south of the island, while the trails that require a higher skill level are in the north. Whichever you choose, you can expect spectacular scenery and a truly immersive experience. If you’re up for a challenge, why not take on Madeira’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo?

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Sample city life in Funchal Set against a backdrop of beautiful hills, Funchal has to be one of Europe’s prettiest capital cities. The perfect balance between laid-back and bustling, it’s known for its fascinating museums, botanical gardens, lively shopping scene and charming street cafes. The old streets, twentieth-century boulevards and pretty squares of West Funchal are home to some of Madeira’s finest shops and museums. East Funchal is dominated by the old town, Zona Velha, which has now been transformed into a trendy quarter with modern bars, galleries, shops and restaurants. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss a visit to Mercado dos Lavradores, Funchal’s vibrant fruit, vegetable, fish and flower market. A trip to Maderia’s capital also wouldn’t be complete without exploring one of the city’s sensational botanical gardens. Madeira Botanical Garden is the biggest, with the most varied collection of flora from around the world. Visit a black volcanic beach Madeira’s volcanic origin has not only gifted the island with rich and exuberant gardens, but some fantastic black beaches too. The black sand comes from eroded volcanic materials such as lava and basalt rocks, which explains why it’s typically found on beaches near volcanic activity. One of the finest is Praia do Porto do Seixal, a stunning stretch of black sand in the north of the

island with an incredible mountainous backdrop. Since the beach faces east, it’s also considered one of the best spots for watching the sunrise in Madeira. Admire dramatic ridges and waterfalls as you swim before drying off in the morning sun. Unlike many of the beaches on Madeira Island, the sand is soft too! Take a boat trip Did you know: Madeira is one of the best places for dolphin and whale watching in Europe? A boat tour here will give you the chance to witness a staggering variety, some of which are extremely rare anywhere else on the planet. These include sperm whales, humpback whales, oceanic dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and more. Although various species can be sighted all year round, your best chance is between April and October. You could also take the two-and-a-half hour boat trip to Porto Santo, the archipelago’s second largest island. Often called the ‘Golden island’ after its gorgeous 9km-long beach, Porto Santo is the perfect destination for a spot of sunbathing and swimming. The island is also one of the best places in Europe to practice diving and snorkelling. Head to the translucent waters of Zimbralinhos beach for a chance of seeing octopus, cuttlefish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, hermit crabs and more.

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Beauty

Staying safe in the sun Whether you’re holidaying in the Canaries or Cornwall, sunscreen is essential. Here’s what to consider before you buy. Check the SPF The higher the sun protection factor (SPF), the less chance you’ll get burnt. The NHS recommends using at least SPF30 in the UK. However, if you’re going abroad or buying sunscreen for young children, you might want to opt for SPF45 or SPF50. Remember, getting burnt just once every two years can triple your risk of melanoma skin cancer. The SPF rating relates to UVB rays. You also need to protect yourself from UVA rays, so look for a sunscreen with at least 4-star UVA protection. Natural tanning Sunscreens either use chemical or mineral sun blockers. There are pros and cons to both. Several of the chemicals used in sunscreens have been found to enter the bloodstream at worrying levels. (In particular, you might want to avoid octocrylene. ) Mineral sunscreens (e.g. ones made with zinc oxide) are less likely to enter your bloodstream but can be more difficult to rub in. Protect the planet Chemicals such as oxybenzone can have devastating effects on coral reefs and other aquatic life, so some holiday destinations have banned sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. You don’t even need to swim in the sea for your sunscreen to have an impact, as it can enter the water system when you have a shower. So, look for a ‘reef-safe’ sunscreen. Good options include those by Green People, Alba Botanica and Badger. Face the day Moisturisers and foundations often contain SPF, but it’s unlikely you’ll apply enough to give you the full protection. Instead, look for a facial sunscreen. Some even have added skincare ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. Fake it ‘til you make it Tempted to skip the sun cream because you want a tan? Some sunscreens contain a tan activator, so you really don’t need to take the risk. If you want a natural-looking tan before your holiday, why not book in for a spray tan? The days of streaky orange tans are long gone. Decent fake tans are now almost impossible to tell from the real thing.

By Kate Duggan

Don’t be stingy Apply your sunscreen 30 minutes before going out in the sun, and then reapply every two hours. You’ll need to reapply it after swimming, even if the sunscreen is water-resistant. Be generous. You’ll need two to three tablespoons’ worth to give you the advertised SPF. If sunscreen irritates your skin or makes you itch, switch to a fragrance-free one designed for sensitive skin. Take care Sunscreens don’t provide 100% protection from skin damage or prevent heat stroke. So, try to keep in the shade if the temperature soars. Cover up if you do need to go out (e.g. with a hat, sunglasses and a loose-fitting long-sleeved top). And drink plenty of water so you don’t get dehydrated. For more sun safety info, visit www.nhs.uk/livewell/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety

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Food & Drink

Brewing Today: Titanic Brewery

Multi award-winning Titanic Brewery was established during 1985 in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. Their first beer brewed was named Titanic Premium. This beer is continued today, with the name changed to ANCHOR (4.1% vol) and is very popular with many beer drinkers. The complete range of beers, from the Titanic Brewery, are all distinctive in their own right, having ‘devotees’ for a good number of the productions. Their ‘Beer of the Month’ has numerous followers and can include selected pale, traditional ruby, plum porter and others, which are carefully chosen, each month. I found something for all tastes, amongst Titanic’s beers. PUB IN A BOX is extremely popular. Whilst being a splendid treat to enjoy at home, it is an obvious great gift idea, too. The box contains various bottled and canned beers, a Titanic Brewery pint glass, plus snacks and beer mats. A personalised gift card, with a message of your choice, can be included for a small charge. Different boxes – if a preference is required – can be for a Titanic Dark Ales Box, Titanic Light Ales Box, Mixed Can Cases and others. STEERAGE (3.8% vol) pale ale has a good floral and hoppy aroma with a dry, refreshing mouthfeel and palate experience. ICEBERG (4.1% vol) is an American Pale Ale that was one of the first UK beers to use US hop varieties – citrusy and zesty. CAPPUCCINO STOUT (4.5% vol) has a good aroma of coffee, which follows through to the flavour of this stout, admirably. CHOCOLATE & VANILLA STOUT (4.5% vol) has chocolate and vanilla scents, leading enticingly, to the smooth, creamy taste. WHITE STAR (4.5% vol) I found to be golden and crisp, with an excellent aroma, evoking thoughts of honey and hops. An excellent fruity, malty ale. RASPBERRY PALE (4.7% vol) has raspberries on the nose, then a light, fresh mouthfeel and palate sensation. PLUM PORTER (4.9% vol) is a deep-red, with plum flavours in abundance – splendid! CAPTAIN SMITHS (5.2% vol) is traditional, malty and strong – a firm favourite. The website has all information, including details about the range of beers, plus pubs, shop, tours, events, loyalty programme and more. Titanic Brewery, Callender Place, Lingard Street, Burslem, Stoke–on–Trent, Staffordshire ST6 1JL. Tel: +44 (0) 1782 823447 E-mail: titanic@titanicbrewery.co.uk www.titanicbrewery.co.uk

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

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Special Report

How to Deal with Conflict By Sarah Davey

Its July…as the temperature rises so do tempers. Everyone feels tetchier when it’s hot. So how do you keep your cool while everyone else is boiling over? Some people are more chilled than others. Whether your temper boils over is down to temperament, past experiences, and the specific situation. Some people snap when they feel under pressure, others when they perceive injustice, and others when they feel disrespected. If you understand your own triggers you’re better placed to address them. How do you normally deal with conflict? When the ‘fight’ instinct is triggered we prepare instinctively to take an aggressive position. If our ‘flight’ instinct is the one that’s tweaked in conflict situations then we’ll beat a hasty retreat. Some of us freeze in response to a perceived threat and others instantly appease to avoid conflict. Knowing our tendency helps us map out a route before a conflict situation arises. Understanding yourself makes it easier to recognize when a tense situation is escalating to the point of conflict. Think back to your last argument. Try to recreate in your body how it felt, remembering as many details as you can. Fix that feeling in your

head, so you recognise it as it happens. When you recognise it you can take action. Action might involve removing yourself from a situation before you explode or burst into tears. You can then work on self-calming by going for a brisk walk, screaming into a pillow, or venting your spleen on to paper (don’t give it to the other person though!). Then do something that makes you feel good; play with your cat, watch a comedy show, or listen to your favourite playlist. Once your equilibrium is restored you will then be in a better place to deal with the matter in hand, either by deciding it isn’t worth pursuing, or by means of calm discussion. The more you practice these de-escalation techniques the more skilled you’ll become.

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Local News

Greensand Country Celebrates Successful Annual Festival

The annual Greensand Country Festival has seen local people and families experience exciting events and activities across the landscape, throughout May and into the Jubilee Celebrations at the start of June. With events, including forest bathing, a 50km Greensand Country Ultra Trail, horse-riding, street parties, storytelling in the woods and much more, the festival has showcased a diverse and exciting programme, with something to suit every interest. Hosted by the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership since 2018, the festival takes place across the landscape, from Leighton Buzzard to Gamlingay and aims to promote the wide range of events taking place across the local area. It encourages people to discover more of Greensand Country and its beautiful parks, woodlands, heritage sites, wildlife and attractions. The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee weekend gave us even more cause for celebration this year, enabling Greensand Country to extend the length of its 2022 festival and showcasing an even wider array of concerts, parties and shows. As well as the Jubilee, the annual programme of events also supported Mental Health Awareness Week at the beginning of May. It featured a number of activities to help beat loneliness, from a women’s only walk at RSPB The Lodge, to a Sound Bath using Tibetan bowls, Yoga and Meditation at Shuttleworth, and a number of community walks. The Greensand Country Landscape Partnership were also proud to support the new High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Lady Jane Clifford, on a recent outdoor networking walk along the Greensand Ridge. The five-day ‘Walk the Walk; Start the Talk’ event took place within the Greensand Country Festival, with

representatives from local and national charities and interest groups. With such a diverse range of organisations attending, the walk enabled organisations working in different sectors to come together and discuss how they might be able to connect future projects to better promote green spaces. Reflecting on the huge success of the 2022 Greensand Country Festival, Partnership Coordinator, Daniel Bowles says: “This year’s festival has been very exciting, with lots of new events, as well as many of our annual favourites. It has been great to see a real community spirit and to showcase the significant value that the local landscape plays in our daily lives. “We would like to say a big thank you to all of the partners, organisations and individuals who helped to make the festival happen and we look forward to doing it all again next May.” About Greensand Country Led by The Greensand Trust and Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity, the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership is formed of 24 organisations across our much-love landscape, from Leighton Buzzard to Gamlingay, working together to promote and protect it. Greensand Country contains all of Bedfordshire’s remaining heathland, more than half of its woodland and, as a proportion of the area, is made up of more historic parkland than any other place in England. Find out more about Greensand Country at www.greensandcountry.com. Stay up to date with all of the latest information by following @ greensandsocial on Twitter, and @greensandcountry on Facebook and Instagram.

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Local News

Weekend Tour Guides & Stewards - Jordans Mill Do you enjoy working with people and share our passion for making history come alive? If so, we may have the perfect opportunity for you. Jordans Mill are looking to recruit talented individuals to guide and inspire visitors on their journey around the historic Mill at weekends. The tour guide and stewards will demonstrate the mill machinery, tell historic stories about the Jordan family’s journey from farming to milling to cereals and explain how flour was once produced. We offer two types of tour; a self guided tour where visitor use a booklet to enhance their visit and are accompanied by a room steward and a fully guided tour where visitors are accompanied by a tour guide for the duration of their tour. As a guide, your role will be to learn all about our history, learn the script and in your own style, bring it all to life, whether you are welcoming a group, families or individuals.

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So, if you enjoy storytelling and working as part of a team and you have bags of positivity, we would love to hear from you. We have volunteer and part-time employed positions available. For more information; visit the vacancies page on the website https://jordansmill.com/contact-us/vacancies or email us at info@jordansmill.com with your contact details and we’ll be in touch. We look forward to hearing from you.

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House of Colour

Summer Sun Hats What to pick

While we may have highly variable weather in this country a good summer hat is still an essential. We do need to protect our skin in the sunshine. You may have noticed some hats as having a UPF, Ultraviolet Protection Factor. This is designed to give a rating as to how much combined UVA and UVB rays the fabric protects the wearer from. As an example a UPF 50 protects the wearer from 98% of the rays. Look out for ratings on new hats. As ever there are lots of styles to choose from but there are a few trends to look out for. Bucket hat – this one goes back to the nineties trends we’re seeing this season. Not just for Liam Gallagher this one is right up to date with different fabrics including crochet, straw and fabulous prints. As a smaller brimmed option and with some fab prints and colours this is very much a fun option – if you need smaller scale and a quirky look this is a great option for you. Have a play with whether you turn it up loosely at the front too. They fold up much more easily too, so forgiving for holiday packing! Kangol still have a huge range of options. Baseball Caps – some would say they’ve never been away but this season we’re seeing the elevated baseball cap with a more ‘designer’ feel. Bold branding is a key part of this seasons take so be sure that this is really your thing. Wide brimmed straw hats – the traditional Panama is still a mainstay and an absolute classic and good quality ones will always be a great investment (traditionally foldable too, try Pachacuti, or The Panama Hat Co.). If you know it suits you try different coloured options and those with pattern which are appearing. We are seeing more wide brimmed versions in the form a ‘planter’ style, an extended boater style and fedora versions too which are great if you can work a larger scale look. The larger and softer straw options are still a great summer glamorous look and offer great protection. The sweeping brim of this style works really well if you need more movement. The visor – the visor is still very much around this season and can be found in straw options. It’s a cute look for those who need a smaller scale option but do be aware of it’s limited coverage. Etsy is worth a look.

Texture – we’re seeing a lot of texture in hats of all shapes and sizes – and by that I mean an uneven or perhaps thicker style of straw with raw edges or event larger weave in woven fabric. Again dovetailing with what we’re seeing more broadly in trend terms at the moment. These particularly suit those with natural in their clothing personality. A note on colour. Traditional straw shades usually suit a warmer skin tones, so those in the cooler end of the spectrum will need to look at coloured options. As ever the golden rule is to go with something that reflects your clothing personality, and also gives you the right scale. If your look needs larger pieces (accessories, prints, lapels) then a wider brimmed hat is for you. You’ll know if you look swamped and need something smaller in scale (if you’re not clear what level of scale or texture suits you and it can make a huge difference, find your nearest stylist). I’m off to find myself a funky print bucket option! Article by Jennie Billings – House of Colour House of Colour has a network of stylists to help you update your look – find your nearest at houseofcolour.co.uk/find-a-stylist

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Local News

Let’s Fight Fatigue, Pain… and Brain Fog!

Letchworth-based charity The Herts MS Therapy Centre helps people to fight chronic pain and the exhausting tiredness that often accompanies it. We understand how debilitating pain and fatigue can be. We know all about brain fog too. We aim to help as many people as we can, with any long term or neurological condition. Increasingly, we help people who have Fibromyalgia. Do you, or someone you know, have Fibromyalgia? Oxygen Therapy involves breathing in pure oxygen under gentle pressure. It helps many people via pain reduction, energy boosts and accelerated healing.

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Dr Amir Hadanny pioneered Oxygen Therapy for Fibromyalgia, demonstrating great success in helping 01462 684 214 people to reduce the symptoms of Fibromyalgia. Studies cite Oxygen Therapy as significantly improving the symptoms and quality of life, as well as brain function of patients with fibromyalgia. At Herts MS Therapy Centre in Letchworth, we welcome people from Herts, Beds… even Europe to attend Oxygen Therapy. Many of our customers with Fibromyalgia find that Oxygen Therapy helps them to feel less pain, enjoy more energy and to think more clearly. Steve N has Fibromyalgia. He says: “Hyperbaric oxygen has made a significant difference, helping with my chronic tiredness and alleviating some of the joint and muscle pain, generally making life a whole lot more pleasant.” Give it a go! Call us on 01462 684 214 – or visit www.hertsmstherapy.org.uk for more details. Let’s fight fatigue, pain… and brain fog!

Finance

The savvy investor Talk about stock market investment and you probably think of people buying or selling shares in a particular company. In reality, many investors want a simple way to spread their money across multiple companies, usually to mitigate the risk of one performing badly. The different ways of doing this can seem confusing, so let’s run through the basics. ACTIVE FUNDS The first big divide is between active and passive funds. An active fund usually involves a fund manager who takes money from clients and uses it to buy and sell shares. In effect they aim to use their judgement to pick winners, avoid losers, and outperform the market as a whole. They are usually paid a management fee calculated as a percentage of the investment. Naturally performance varies and it can be difficult to compare investment funds based on past performance. It’s possible the fund or its manager either had a lucky streak or has carefully selected the period for which they are boasting of their performance. Fund managers won’t always concentrate solely on making the biggest return. Instead they’ll follow particular guidelines for the fund. For example, some might aim to balance risk and return or even prefer the ‘safest’ investments. A fund might also specialise in buying shares in environmentally responsible or ethical companies.

PASSIVE FUNDS A passive fund, sometimes called a tracker fund, doesn’t try to pick the best shares. Instead it will either buy shares from all the companies in a particular stock market or buy a representative sample. Either way, the aim is that the overall performance will very closely mirror that of an entire market or a stock market index (such as the FTSE 100). The passive approach is unlikely to bring the spectacularly high returns that come from picking the most successful firms. At the same time, it’s less likely to lead to dramatic losses from picking shares in companies that slump or even go out of business. It’s more of a slow and steady approach, particularly if you have the time to ride out short-term swings in the market as a whole. UNIT TRUSTS The way you put your money into investment funds and what you are technically buying also varies. Perhaps the best known is the unit trust, where multiple investors pool their money for the fund manager to invest. The fund owns a collection of shares and then each investor owns a unit of the entire fund. When you come to sell your unit, the money you get back depends on the overall value of the shares the fund owns. OEIC Another option is the open-ended investment

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TEMPLARS CROSS LODGE www.templarscrosslodge.co.uk Close to Baldock town centre in spacious surroundings this motel style Bed & Breakfast offers off road parking. • • • • • • • •

CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST LARGE LUXURY EN-SUITE ROOMS FREE WIFI INTERNET ACCESS DIGITAL /SATELLITE TV WITH SPORT & FILMS FRIDGE IN ROOM PRIVATE LOCATION CLOSE TO TRAIN STATION MAJOR CREDIT CARDS TAKEN

Tel: 07970 162753

Email: ami@amcofm.co.uk or sally@amcofm.co.uk North Road, Baldock, Hertfordshire SG7 5DN

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company (OEIC). This is a fund that operates as a business and has its own shares. Rather than own a unit of the fund, you technically buy and sell shares in the company itself in the same way as you would with a normal publicly traded business. However, you’ll normally have to pay a fee (to cover the fund management) when you buy shares in an OEIC and you may have to pay an exit fee when you sell shares. EXCHANGE TRADED FUND You may also encounter an Exchange Traded Fund. It’s similar in operation to an OEIC, though you can usually buy or sell an ETF instantly and know the price exactly. When you buy or sell an OEIC your order isn’t processed until the next available valuation point, when the fund calculates the value of its various investments. This can mean a little less certainty. Another difference is that an OEIC is usually actively managed, with a manager choosing the investments. An Exchange Traded Fund is a passive fund that aims to reflect a particular stock exchange. TAX IMPLICATIONS In principle, any profits you make from investment funds are treated as taxable income, subject to an annual dividend allowance. However, you can get tax benefits from holding the fund in a stocks and shares ISA in the same way as trading a single company’s

shares. Either way, always seek professional advice when investing to make sure you comply with tax laws and take advantage of available allowances.

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A FREE WILL for Homeowners Protect your home and legacy for your children • • • • • •

Keep your hard-earned wealth within the family Stop your home from being sold to pay for long term Care Fees. Prevent the courts from making your financial and healthcare decisions. If you already have a Will … Is it up to date? Several thousand outdated wills are legally challenged every year. Ensure your parents’ home and property is also protected.

DON’T PUT IT OFF – Don’t let your home and money disappear, make sure your estate goes to your family… leaving “what you want” to “who you want”. CALL 01767 660250 or email info@willandestateplanning.com for more information or to book a free meeting with one of our Will and Estate Planners either in your own home or at our offices. Baystrait Ltd t/a Will & Estate Planning, Baystrait House, Station Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8AL

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Local News

Shuttleworth Events Photography: Darren Harbar Photography

Family Air Show Shuttleworth Family Air Show on Sunday 7 August will be a highly entertaining event, with a memorable line-up of aerial displays and lots happening on the ground to make it a fun family day out. Take your family by the hand and step back in time as you visit the Vintage Fairground – complete with a Merry-Go-Round and Helter Skelter! Inside the Collection hangars, you’ll also find a cornucopia of activities to keep the kids (or even the big kids!) happy, whether it’s pedal planes or an Airfix Make and Paint courtesy of IPMS Brampton – with other educational Discovery Zones dotted around the site, including a large play area. As you continue to explore the site, it will be almost impossible for you to resist a little dance as you listen to the upbeat songs from the beautiful Barn-Ettes. Outdoors, you’ll be able to experience the sensation of riding on-board a 1920s bus – whether it’s the sole surviving Charabus or our Wellingborough doubledecker. The buses will take you up to the grand Shuttleworth House, which will be open to tour. Visit the beautiful Swiss Garden and see if you can find Shuttleworth’s resident peacocks – Snowy and Storm. If you spot them, be sure to take a photo! In the afternoon, the flying display starts – an aerial ballet in the Bedfordshire skies, consisting of Shuttleworth aircraft and awe-inspiring visitors. If the weather is suitably calm, the Edwardian aircraft – including the world’s oldest flying aeroplane, the 1909 Bleriot XI – may even be able to take to the skies, capping off what will be a truly memorable day. For more information, please visit: shuttleworth.org/familyairshow

Flying Proms Shuttleworth Flying Proms combines classical music with a delightful evening flying programme. The perfect event to sit out on the paddocks, relaxing with a picnic and a glass of something fizzy. Gates open at 2pm, giving you plenty of time to find a good spot and settle in. The concert and flying display start at 7pm, so before the music starts do take the opportunity to explore! The grand Shuttleworth House will be open to tour. You’ll be able to see first-hand the ornate gold-leafed ceilings and panelled walls, the rare Erard grand piano, and hear the stories of the Shuttleworth family who once lived there. Shuttleworth House is also accessible through the Shrubbery Walk at the end of which is the Swiss Garden, 9 acres of heritage landscape designed in the popular alpine style almost 200 years ago, with framed views, ponds and several charming miniature structures. It is a rare example of a Regency garden and boasts thirteen listed features. The Collection’s hangar doors will be thrown open for you to wander around, taking in the sights and smells of vintage aeroplanes, whilst learning about some of the roles they played in their service and racing lives and other stories they can tell. To add to the excitement, there will be vintage aircraft performing illuminated aerial displays above you, and a thrilling firework display to round off the evening - the day is set to be an unmissable event. For more information, please visit: shuttleworth.org/flyingproms

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Gardening

Naturalistic planting

Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

Naturalistic planting What is this style that we loosely call naturalistic planting? If a vision of opposites helps to define the image, a formal garden will come close. Think of the antithesis, and you’re nearly there. A naturalistic garden could be described as wild, but if it’s been designed this way, it’s anything but. Certainly, plants drive the design. You might not associate it with a closely mown lawn or perfectly straight paths. Although, anything goes – and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t combine a naturalistic border with a neat and tidy lawn, or position it close to an undeviating hard surface. A planting scheme that is full to overflowing with perennials, together with grasses and some structural plants too, appears to work in partnership with nature. It’s a form of re-wilding the borders whilst still maintaining some sort of control over the appearance. This idea of wildness is by no means new. Indeed, William Robinson, born in Ireland in 1838, wrote The Wild Garden in 1870. He was one of the most respected garden writers and horticulturists of his time. The most successful of all plants – grass Grasses certainly have the ability to soften the landscape, forming bold statements of shape and form when used in drifts, clumps and swathes. Their flower and seed heads move in the breeze and merge effortlessly into nature. The naturalistic approach to gardening considers ecology as an important part of the process, therefore habitat potential of a planting scheme is a priority. Wildlife can abound in the damp

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understorey where there is opportunity for nest building and feasting on seed. Grass, so it seems, is no longer just to walk on, its use has progressed. It is an undeniably successful plant that covers ground in just about every country. Just leave a patch of bare soil and sooner or later grass will appear. There are more than 10,000 different species plus perhaps 5,000 sedges and rushes, so it’s easy to see why we can access so many variations in colour, shape, form and texture. Use grass for structural planting, to divide up your space in an informal way, to create moody areas, fill in bare spaces under trees, create wonderful texture and more. The uses for ornamental grasses are limitless. Gardens to visit Consider the High Line in New York, for which talented designer Piet Oudolf was partly responsible. This influential Dutchman and Henk Gerritson, a former artist from the Netherlands, are known for their ‘new wave planting’ style of ornamental grasses and perennials. Pensthorpe Natural Park Millennium Gardens in Norfolk is another fine example of Oudolf’s stunning work. The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, created for the London Olympic Games in 2012, is a variation on a similar theme. The planting was designed by Nigel Dunnett and Professor James Hitchmough. They are pioneers of ecological and innovative approaches to planting within public spaces, aiming to integrate ecology and horticulture in a most effective and attractive manner.

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GreenFingers

Gardening

The Alan Titchmarsh column He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist, and all-round horticultural inspiration. This month, Alan Titchmarsh talks about the pests that parade our petunias… and more. We all want our outdoor spaces to be as beautiful and as thriving as possible, yet by employing a host of natural ways to put pests off, we can keep our courtyards canny, and our green spaces chemicalfree. The best way to do this is to think about natural barriers. These, if done well, can comfortably eradicate snails and slugs and all those little creatures who slide and slime over our prized plants. Any type of copper can be used to make a wall that electrically shocks their body, deterring them from moving further forward, while wood ashes or crushed eggshells also work to put those meddling molluscs off their lunch. While most people consider sprays and pesticides as the best way to keep unwanted intruders away, there are a range of natural squirts that do the same thing. For instance, garlic and chilli may be a culinary staple, but they hold a secret power for gardeners looking to dispose of invaders in a natural manner. Combine crushed garlic and chilli (powdered chilli will do if you don’t have fresh) with one tablespoon of vegetable oil and a small amount of dishwashing liquid or soap flakes. Leave to soak overnight in a jar, then strain and spray on plants. The spray is very effective towards aphids and caterpillars – but keep

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away from kids, avoid contact with your skin and eyes, and use within a fortnight! It’s also worth reminding ourselves that not all bugs and beasties are bad news, and done well, you can encourage some into your garden. Plant mint, fennel, dill, yarrow, sunflowers and dandelions will attract ladybirds, hoverflies and lacewings, all of which will happily feast on your aphids. Birds and hedgehogs eat slugs and snails, beetles and insects… as do frogs and toads. Finally, try a trap. Earwigs can devastate seedlings, so if they do pose a problem in your garden, try filling a few plastic flowerpots with straw and balancing them upside down on sticks to attract the pests. The earwigs crawl up the poles and take shelter in the pots at night and you can humanely dispose by emptying them in the morning. Removing pests and critters the natural way takes effort, imagination and no small amount of patience, but opening your garden to nature’s bounty, whilst preserving as much life as possible, is surely the best and most satisfying way to enjoy the fruits of your labour.

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Garden View

Gone

to seed! By Rachael Leverton

Gardening is a hobby and, after a while, most people with hobbies find themselves experimenting. They get a bit creative and want to see if they can do something on the cheap, or for free, or simply find to out whether it’s possible to do something just for the simple pleasure of trying. Seed collecting falls into this category for me. Most seeds are not particularly expensive to buy, so why would I or anyone else want to collect our own? Well I can’t speak for anyone else, but I get a real buzz from collecting seed, knowing that I can perpetuate a favourite plant without any outside involvement. Sometimes I’ll collect seed with a fair degree of certainty that I’ll be able to raise hundreds of little seedlings, and sometimes I do it for the challenge, as not all seeds are easy to propagate. If you want to have a go at seed collecting (and be warned, it’s a highly addictive pastime) then here are a few tips. You will need: Large paper bags – Must be paper. Plastic bags won’t do as they retain moisture and cause the seeds to develop fungus or go mouldy. You can buy them from eBay or make your own from brown paper and artist’s paper tape. Felt pen - for labelling. This is important as you will forget what you’ve collected even if you think you won’t!

Box or trug - for carrying the bags of seeds around the garden. Small pair of scissors or secateurs – for snipping the heads. Choose a dry day with little or no wind. Select a healthy, pest and disease-free plant with seedpods which look as though they’re about to split. Label a paper bag (it’s much easier to do this first) then cut off the seedhead and turn it upside down into the bag. Place the bag into a dry place and wait for the seeds to ripen. Check regularly. When most of the seedpods have opened, tip out the contents on to a dry surface and separate all the seeds from any remaining bits of pod. Store the clean seeds in a small, labelled paper bag or envelope, in a cool dry place until ready to be used. Easy seeds to collect and grow Nigella damascena (love-in-the-mist) Aquilegia (ladies bonnets) Papaver (Poppy) Digitalis Purpurea (Foxglove) Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) Cosmos bipinnatus (Cosmos) Lunaria annua (Honesty) You’ll soon discover many more. Happy collecting. Happy Gardening

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Pets

Looking For Their New Forever Homes

MINDY The RSPCA rescue over 20,000 cats each year. Madeline and Mindy These stunning girls were adopted from the RSPCA many years ago. Sadly when their owner lost their home, the have come back to us. Madeline is black and white Fluffy and super friendly and fussy. Maddie is friendly but a little more cautious but once settled she loves chin rubs. They have always been indoor cats but have been enjoying outside space in the cattery. With this in mind we feel they would benefit from some outside space. These lovely girls have not had one enquiry. They are super friendly would love to get them back in a home, it’s what they deserve. They are in good health and don’t realise they are mature ladies. We are looking to find a suitable home that will take both Madeline and Mindy, as they would very much like to stay together. They would both enjoy living with children but would prefer not to live with a dog.

Fat Cat Fat Cat is a lovely black and white domestic short hair crossbreed, who is approximately 4 years old. Fat Cat’s owner has had to move into a care home so she is looking for a new lap to sit on. She had a very calming effect on her owner who was not well. We think you may wish to think of a new name for her! Fat Cat is still looking for a lap to sit on. Fat Cat would prefer to be the only cat in the home and would also prefer not to live with a dog. He could live with children of secondary school age and would love to be able to go outside and explore. Please make contact with a member of the team, if you would like to begin your cat adoption journey or if you have any questions about the process. Call 01234 266965. You can also get in touch my emailing us at: adopt@rspcabedsnorth.org.uk

FAT CAT

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

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Codeword 1

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Sudoku

Hard Sudoku

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

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What's On

WHAT'S ON IN JULY 1 JULY

1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 JULY

‘Fleshing out the bones’ with Ian Waller. Web: www.bfhs.org.uk

Play social cut-in Chicago Bridge. Play is informal and friendly. Tel: Richard Bean 01438 221517

1 JULY

2 JULY

Bedfordshire Family History Society 7pm and 7.30pm on Zoom Drama Theatre, Mark Rutherford School, Bedford

Bedford Art Society 7.15pm for 7.30pm Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford

Members free, visitors £5 Jo Allsopp is a fully qualified and experienced art tutor and will demonstrate the use of watercolours and inks. Tel: Jean Paterson 01234 307210 Web: www.bedsartsociety.co.uk 1 & 2 JULY

The Best of Times 7.45pm, Saturday matinee 3pm Woodside Hall, Hitchin

Tickets £15. Hitchin Thespians is proud to present a song and dance showcase featuring music from throughout their 120 years of performance. Highlights include numbers from Calamity Jane and West Side Story, into the modern era with Miss Saigon and Hairspray, and right up to date with The Greatest Showman. Tickets: www.hitchinthespians.org. uk 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26 & 29 JULY Bridge Club 1pm Howgills, South View, Letchworth

£3. Tuesdays and Fridays. Play from 1pm but do come earlier. Beginners and improvers welcome – we play very friendly Rubber Bridge. Tel: Gill Cheaney 01462 686806 Email: bridgeclub@lalg.org.uk 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 JULY

Storytime 10.30-11am Letchworth Library

Free - donations welcome Interactive story sessions, perfect for pre-school children. No need to book. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

Bridge Club 1.30-4.30pm. Springfield House, Old Stevenage Community Centre

The Signals Museum Open Day 10am-4pm RAF Henlow, SG16 6DN

The Signals Museum is open to the public. Entry is free but photo ID required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom. Tel: 07778 837263 Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 2 JULY

Write, draw & model in 3D Letchworth Library

A fun filled family event. Suitable for children aged 6 & over. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are £3 per person. Book your place in the Library. Facebook.com/LetchworthLibrary

4, 11, 18 & 25 JULY

Baby Rhyme Time 10.30-11am Letchworth Library

Free - donations welcome Fun half hour sessions of songs and rhymes are perfect for helping your child to learn language skills and are an opportunity for you to meet other families too. Booking essential. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 4, 11, 18 & 25 JULY

Stevenage Choral Society 7.45pm. Stevenage Music Centre, Mobbsbury, Stevenage

Meets every Monday during term time. No audition necessary. Meet like-minded people of all ages and abilities. Try out a wide range of music, from the classics to show songs. Tel: 01438 365769 Email: info@stevenagechoral.org.uk Web: www.stevenagechoral.org.uk 4, 11, 18 & 25 JULY

Monday Meet Up Social Group 10.30am-2pm Baldock Library

Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-10.30pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin

4, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25 & 28 JULY

6 JULY

4 JULY

Meets on the first Monday of the month with a different theme every month. July’s theme is The Repair Shop. Drop in for a cuppa, a chat and make new friends. Retired Persons Table Tennis Club Mondays 11am-1.30pm. Thursdays 1.30-4pm Memorial Hall, Stotfold

The club plays both doubles and singles. Monthly subscription payable. Sadly, we are not a club for beginners at this time, but we do have vacancies for new members. Email: terrygriffiths50@gmail.com 4, 11, 18 & 25 JULY

Monday Painting Group 9.00am-12pm. Letchworth Corner Sports Club, Whitethorn Lane

Meets every Monday. Each term we choose a selection of subjects to paint. If you are interested, you are welcome to try it for £5 per session. Tel: Valerie Williams 01462 624439 Email: mondaypainting@lalg.org.uk

Medium-sized social club for single people aged 40 upwards. Meets every Monday night. Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 Web: www.branch-out.org.uk Pic-n-Mix Social Group 10.30am-12pm Letchworth Library

Meets the first Wednesday of every month. Each session has a theme or activity, and suggestions are made attendees. Drop in for a cuppa, a chat and make some new friends! 6 JULY

Aircraft Enthusiasts’ Group 1pm. Shuttleworth

Guests £5 ‘Another Icarus: Percy Pilcher’ by Roy Smart. Meets on the first Wednesday of every month. Entry to Shuttleworth £15 (valid for one month). Email: 99aegr@gmail.com Web: www.a-e-g.org.uk

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What's On

Deadline for What’s On entries is Monday 11th July.

What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.net 6, 13, 20 & 27 JULY

7, 14, 21 & 28 JULY

Free - donations welcome Fun session of songs and rhymes to help your child learn language skills.

Free. Story sessions for pre-school children.

Baby Rhyme Time 10.30am-11am Baldock Library

6, 13, 20 & 27 JULY

Storytime 10.30-11am Stevenage Library

Story Time 2.15pm-2.45pm Baldock Library

7, 14, 21 & 28 JULY

Sapphire Social Singles Club 8pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin

21 JULY

Hitchin Friendship Club 2.15-4.15pm St Michaels Mount Community Centre

Meets third Thursday of the month. Interesting talks, pub lunches, day trips, coffee mornings, holidays and much more. Refreshments, book exchange, raffle and quiz. Tel: 07974 374106 Email: hfcinfo885@gmail.com

Free - donations welcome Interactive story sessions, perfect for pre-school children. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

A friendly social group for single people to meet and make new friends - generally 50+ age group. Tel/text: Ian 07900 890583 for info sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk

6, 13, 20 & 27 JULY

11 JULY

Drawing, painting, coffee and chat. No need to book. Occasional oneday courses and demonstrations. Email: 99aegr@gmail.com

Free.Spaces limited so booking essential. Call into the library or phone to book. Tel: 0300 123 4049

A multitude of events and attractions, including countless river activities, live music and performance areas, raft and dragon boat races, festival market, plus much more. Web: riverfestival.bedford.gov.uk

11 JULY

UNTIL 2 OCTOBER

Meets second Monday of the month. Visitors welcome.

Free entry. Body & Soul is a new exhibition exploring how women have been represented in art over the past two centuries. Web: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Hinxworth Art Society 10am-12pm Hinxworth Village Hall

7 JULY

The Arts Society North Herts Doors open 10.15am, 11am-12.15pm Broadway Cinema and Theatre, Eastcheap, Letchworth

‘The Art of Stealing: Nazi Looting’ by Shauna Isaac. Visitors welcome. Lift access. Web: theartssocietynorthherts.org.uk 7, 14, 21 & 28 JULY

Hitchin Thursday Art Club 9.30am-12pm St. John’s Community Centre, St. John’s Road, Hitchin

We meet every Thursday for painting and drawing, etc. We are a friendly group who enjoy art and chatting. Tel: Mike 07977 347707 7, 14, 21 & 28 JULY

Baby Rhyme Time 10.15-10.45am & 11.15-11.45am Hitchin Library

Story Walk 10.30am Baldock Library

Icknield Quilters 7.45pm Baldock Community Centre, Simpson Drive, Baldock

12 JULY

Lego Club 3.30-4.30pm Baldock Library

£3 per child. Second Tuesday of the month. For children ages 5-12 years. Hour of creative fun with Lego. Booking essential at the library. 12 JULY

Letchworth’s Poetry ID Book Launch 7pm David’s Bookshop, Letchworth

Free entry. Meet authors and hear poems from the new anthology ‘Sackful of Clouds’. Featuring the work of twenty local writers. Bar open. Email your name to confirm attendance. Email: staff@davidsbookshops.co.uk 14 JULY

Honey Bees at Benslow. 6pm Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin

Tickets £20. Ashley Walker tells the story of the apiary behind the much-loved Benslow Honey. Web: https://benslowmusic.org

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23 & 24 JULY

Bedford River Festival

Body & Soul Exhibition The Higgins, Bedford

EVERY WEEKDAY

Clifton Walking Group

Meets on weekdays at 8.30am and in the afternoon for an hour. A friendly bunch of people of various ages and abilities. Monthly weekend walk of 6-8 miles. No pressure to walk, just turn up as often or as seldom as you prefer. Group meets for coffee once a month and holds other social events. Tel: Suzanne I’ons 07933 709006 Email: ionssuzanne@gmail.com Letchworth Arts & Leisure Group

Annual membership £10 per household. Many groups and activities including wine appreciation, film, gardening, theatre, art design, books, discussions, games, sports, outings, walking and much, much more. New groups are starting all the time. Online talks every month. Nonmembers can try activities before joining. Web: lalg.org.uk

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Crossword Puzzle Solution from our June Edition Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Emily Haynes, Great Paxton

June’s Codeword and Sudoku Solutions

Easy

Hard

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The Villager Prize Crossword Prize

£25

Complete the crossword and fill in your details below, before

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

Across 1 Unable to hear (4) 3 Previously (8) 9 A lawn game (7) 10 Tease (5) 11 Produced (12) 14 Period of time (3) 16 Stop (5) 17 Feminine pronoun (3) 18 In spite of (12) 21 Shoreline (5) 22 Placing (7) 23 Daily (8) 24 Requests (4) Down 1 Twelfth month (8) 2 Embellish (5) 4 Not in (3) 5 Dimensions (12) 6 Entrants in a race (7) 7 A toy (2-2) 8 Adequately (12) 12 Map or diagram (5) 13 Communications (8) 15 Mean (7) 19 Departs (5) 20 Land measurement (4) 22 Small vegetable (3)

Name:

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Books

Crafts, hobbies and weekend projects By Kate Duggan Summer tiiime, and the living is eeeeasy…. Whether you’re looking for some barbecue inspiration or a new novel to keep you company on the hammock, we’ve got you covered.

Learn Drawing Quickly Sharon Finmark

This little book packs in a huge amount. You’ll find plenty of practical advice on composition, shading, perspective, proportion, choosing materials and so on, along with simple exercises and ideas for subjects. There’s everything from watercolour flowers to sketched urban street scenes. An overarching theme is of finding the beauty in everyday objects – a kitchen shelf, kids playing on the carpet, a man’s shirt. If you want to start drawing, improve your existing skills or just get some fresh inspiration, this book is a must.

Woodwork: The Complete Step-by-Step Manual Published by DK

Many of us tried woodwork in school. And for most of us, that’s where we left it. If you fancy dusting off your skills, this book could prove invaluable. There’s detailed guidance on tools and techniques, as well as stepby-step instructions for a wide range of projects, from a simple chopping board and wine rack to a more ambitious glass-fronted cabinet and gateleg table. Whether you’ll learning how to sharpen a bench plane or make a bookcase, the full colour photographs and easy-to-follow instructions will make your life a lot easier.

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 60

She’s in Ctrl Anne-Marie Imafidon

Perhaps you’re looking to turn a hobby into a career? Women are currently underrepresented in tech. In She’s in Ctrl, computer scientist Anne-Marie Imafidon looks at how more women could be encouraged into engineering, coding, physics and other STEM careers. She shares her own story, as well as those of other female pioneers who are helping to transform the world of science and technology.

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Classifieds Accountants

Plastering. Painting and Decorating

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Electrician

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