Henlow Sept 2019

VILLAGER The

Issue 130 - September 2019

and Town

Life

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

In this issue Win tickets to see

Ed Byrne The History of

Conkers Win £25

in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People Every Month in

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

FRco1py

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Inside this issue...

Win Tickets to see Ed Byrne

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The History of Conkers................................................................4 Harvest Time..............................................................................8 Win Tickets to see Ed Byrne......................................................12 Breaking up is hard to do.........................................................14 Dine in Style: Great British Restaurant.....................................17 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe...................................................20 Big Bang Theory - Thinking of Cutting a Fringe?.......................23 Top Styling Tips for New Mums................................................24 TATT - Are you tired all the time?..............................................26 Water Works - Why we should all drink more water.................31 Here’s to a Dementia-Friendly Future.......................................33 Valuable VPN............................................................................36 Managing your Money at University........................................39 Going Green.............................................................................40 The Privet Hedge......................................................................43

Tamil Nadu Top UNESCO Site in India........................................46 R.A.T.S. Rehoming Appeal........................................................51 Animal Know-How...................................................................53 Children’s Page.........................................................................54 Technology for the New Term...................................................56 Puzzle Page..............................................................................60 What’s On.................................................................................64 Sue Ryder St. John’s Hospice Starlight Hike..............................68 The 10 Best Electric Cars on Sale Today.....................................71 Prize Crossword........................................................................74 Book Review............................................................................77 Useful Numbers.......................................................................79

The Privet Hedge

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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, Sarah Davey, Trevor Langley, Nick Coffer, Karen Campbell, Jennie Billings, Tracey Anderson, Kate McLelland, Mark O’Keefe, Ann Haldon, Pippa Greenwood, Rachael Leverton, Solange Hando, RSPCA, James Baggott and Kate Duggan

Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com Photography - Monika Adamczyk 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 Conkers With autumn comes the familiar sight of shiny brown conkers, the fruit of the horse chestnut tree, revealing themselves as their prickly green casings ripen and split open. These nuts’ sheen and rich colour make them irresistible to children and they are still used for playing the traditional game of Conkers.

The game of Conkers has two players. Each player has a conker which has had a small hole drilled through the centre and been threaded onto a piece of string around 25cm long. The players then take turns to strike the other’s conker until it breaks, earning a point each time. Scoring is accumulative, with the victor’s conker additionally taking on the points of their opponent. A new conker is known as a noner and conkers can build up points to become sixers, tenners and beyond.

The first recorded game of Conkers took place on the Isle of Wight in 1848, around 200 years after the horse chestnut tree was introduced into Britain from eastern Europe. Before this, a similar game had been played using hazelnuts (also known as cobnuts) or snail shells.

It is not generally known where the name ‘conker’ – used to refer to both the game and the horse

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chestnut fruit – originates from. Some suggestions are that it comes from the French verb cogner which means ‘to bump’ or that it is perhaps a colloquial version of the word conquer (the original cobnut or snail shell game was referred to as Conquerors). However, in other regions of the UK, the game of Conkers is also known as Cheggers, Cobblers and Kingers.

Often found in parks, the horse chestnut tree displays flower spikes in spring known as candles.

Unlike the sweet chestnut, its starch-rich fruit is extremely bitter and not edible to humans due to its high saponin content. However, in the Balkans, horse chestnuts were traditionally fed to horses to make their coats shiny. They can also be used as food for cattle by soaking them in lime water, boiling, grinding and adding them to fodder.

As well as being traditionally used as a horse food, the tree’s name may be due to the appearance of the horseshoe-shaped leaf scars that occur on its branches.

Conkers become harder with age but there have always been tricks of the trade to ensure your conker is a champion. I can recall my father swearing by soaking them overnight in vinegar.

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You can also do a test first to eliminate weaker conkers by placing them in a bowl of water. Those that are less dense (and so more easily smashed) will float, while the harder, denser conkers will sink.

The technique of drilling through the conker is vital too: the hole needs to be perfectly round and smooth with no cracks or fissures that could weaken the conker’s structure.

Vinegar baths and other such underhand tactics are regarded as cheating and prevented in the annual World Conker Championships where all contestants are supplied with ready-threaded conkers.

The World Conker Championships began in Northamptonshire in 1965. A group of regulars at the pub in Ashton, whose green had an abundance of horse chestnut trees, decided one rainy day to have a game of Conkers with a small prize for the winner and the remaining money going to RNIB Talking Books, as one of the players had a blind relative.

The game grew to become an annual event with people coming from all over to take part. Today it is international with the first overseas title having been won by Mexican Jorge Ramirez in 1976 and the first ladies’ title being awarded to Selma Becker from Austria in 2000. In addition, there are now junior competitions that attract schools with sponsorship and entertainment. Money is still given to the visually impaired with hundreds of thousands of pounds raised to date.

Conkers are not only interesting for their history as a playground game, it was once thought that they could help win us the war.

In the autumn of 1917, the Ministry of Supply offered children money through their schools and the Scout movement to collect as many conkers as they could. Under the Official Secrets Act, they were not told why.

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In fact, Lloyd George had asked a scientist called Professor Weizman to discover a way for Britain to manufacture cordite, which was needed for ammunition. At that time the country was experiencing a shortage due a shipping blockade that prevented its import from America.

To make cordite, a large supply of acetone is required, and to produce it, the professor needed a good source of starch. This was readily available in horse chestnuts.

However, thanks to the enthusiasm of the children, the government ran into problems when it came to transporting and storing the huge amounts of conkers collected, which had to be taken and kept at secret factory locations. The plan was consequently abandoned.

Conkers are believed to have medicinal properties, helping in the treatment of haemorrhoids, varicose veins and rheumatism. It was once thought that carrying one in your pocket was enough to reap the benefits, although these days there are tinctures and ointments available which contain its extracts.

For arachnophobes, conkers are said to be a deterrent to spiders when placed around the home.

Although traditionally a child’s game, many schools now ban conkers for health and safety reasons. And with the decline in the health of horse chestnut trees due to leaf miner moths and the bacterial disease bleeding canker, autumn conkers may become an increasingly rare sight.

By Catherine Rose

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7

Time of Year

By Sarah Davey

Harvest Time

The history of the Harvest Festival Take a look at a modern harvest festival and you’ll no doubt see many ‘urban’ offerings of prepacked cakes and tins of sweet corn. It’s so easy to pop down to the supermarket these days we forget that until relatively recently in this country, people’s lives depended upon the success or failure of their crops.

Harvest festivals were a way to say thank you for a good harvest while trying to guarantee the fortune of the next one.

Saxon farmers offered the first cut sheaf of corn to the gods of fertility in order to please them and ensure they were kind the following year.

The last sheaf was used to make a Kern baby; a doll, dressed in white and trimmed with coloured ribbons to represent spring.

Most peasants were tenant farmers who farmed for a landowner. Harvest time meant weeks of back-breaking work, so it became a tradition for the landowner to host a harvest supper as a thank you to the whole community once the harvest was brought home safely. There was no set date, but the celebrations generally took place around the time of the full Moon, known as the Harvest Moon.

Harvest festivals are closely associated with the church, but actually date back to Pagan times. It was 1843 before the Church became involved. The Reverend Robert Hawker invited members of his parish to a service of harvest thanksgiving at his Cornish church. The practice spread rapidly and led to the custom of decorating churches with

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harvest produce.

The story of John Barleycorn You may never have heard of him, but John Barleycorn is a character in a medieval folksong. He represents barley, the most important cereal crop of the harvest, and also the alcoholic beverages beer and whisky which were made from it.

In the song John Barleycorn suffers attacks, indignities and death which correspond to the various stages of the harvest such as reaping and malting.

It begins…

There was three kings into the east, Three kings both great and high, And they hae sworn a solemn oath, John Barleycorn should die.

They took a plough and plouh’d him down, Put clods upon his head, And they hae sworn a solemn oath, John Barleycorn was dead.

The song has many verses and poor old John Barleycorn suffers dreadfully throughout, particularly when he’s ground between the milling stones! But the story has a neat twist as our hero, who’s finally turned to alcohol, wreaks his revenge on everyone who drank him so merrily, and they suffer for their sins the following morning with gargantuan hangovers!

It is a mark of how important the harvest was that there are more versions of this song than any other in the English language!

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advertorial

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INTRODUCING BRUNSWICK GATE

Show Homes Launching this September 3, 4 & 5 BEDROOM HOMES IN LOWER STONDON FROM £384,950 Situated in a secluded spot at the end of a long tree lined driveway, at this impressive development you can enjoy: • Stunning views across open countryside • Within reach of key amenities and transport links • Premium location close to Hitchin, SG5 3SE postcode • The perfect blend of traditional exteriors with stylish interiors • Ask about our Moving Made Easy Schemes; Help to Buy, Part Exchange, Assisted Move and Key Workers

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Photo: IDIL SUKAN

WIN a PAIR of TICKETS to see ED BYRNE at the GORDON CRAIG THEATRE on 16th OCTOBER 2019 Following his biggest ever tour last year in which Ed sold out his entire Edinburgh Fringe run and many of his nationwide dates, culminating in extra dates added along the way, one of the finest observational comics in the industry announces his EVEN BIGGER brand-new tour for 2019/2020.

Join him as he takes a long hard look at himself and tries to decide if he has ANY traits that are worth passing on to his children.

A TV household name, Ed has been seen on pretty much every TV programme in the UK including Mock The Week, Top Gear, Have I Got News For You, The Graham Norton Show, Live At The Apollo (Host), The One Show, The World’s Most Dangerous Roads, Dara & Ed’s Big Adventure, Dara and Ed’s Road to Mandalay and most recently QI and The Pilgrimage.

We have a pair of tickets to give away for Ed’s Stevenage date at the Gordon Craig Theatre on 16th October. All you have to do is send in the answer to the below question!

For a chance to win tickets simply answer the questions and complete the form below and send to: Ed Byrne Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP. Deadline: 16th August 2019.



ED BYRNE COMPETITION ENTRY

Which comedian pal did Ed have his Big Adventure with recently?

Name: Tel: Email: Address:

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Relationships

Breaking Up is Hard to Do

By Sarah Davey

How to move on when a relationship ends It’s painful when a relationship ends, whether the ending is mutual or one-sided. How do you deal with the emotional rollercoaster that inevitably follows a break-up?

Ignore them – Ignore all attempts to Tweet, email, text or otherwise attract your attention. Likewise resist the urge to Tweet, text or email them. Often, we fall back into a bad relationship because it’s convenient, and we’re too set in a pattern to try something different. Break the cycle.

‘Disappear’ them – Hide away the stuffed toys, gifts and photos that remind you of them. In the early stages of a break-up it’s too easy to cling on to the nice memories and persuade yourself that you need them back in your life.

Don’t stalk them! – Don’t drive past their house or haunt places special to both of you. Even if you can’t bring yourself to ‘unfriend’ them on Facebook, at least hide them from your news feed so you won’t be tempted to check on them every time you log-on.

Get out – It might be tempting to lie in bed, eating Dairy Milk and listening to Heartbreak FM, but what you really need is company. Ring your most sociable friends and arrange a fun night out.

Make a list – Write down all the reasons you split. Then read them back to yourself whenever you start romanticising the past. Remember, they’re your ex for a reason...probably several!

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The Swiss Garden at Night Friday 1 November - Saturday 2 November

As part of the Museums at Night festival, the Swiss Garden is pleased to open for the second year running to show off the garden’s lovely collection of trees, shrubberies and architectural features. See magnificent cedars, ancient oaks, ponds, bridges and rustic buildings beautifully highlighted using a variety of lights, and re-visit Lord Ongley’s lamp-lit Regency garden, which so impressed contemporary visitors that it was described as a ‘fairyland’ in the 1830s.

18:30-21:00 (last admission 20.00). £10 per adult, £3 per child and £24 per family (2 adults, 2 children)

www.shuttleworth.org/garden-at-night The Swiss Garden, Old Warden Park, Biggleswade, SG18 9EP

01767 627933

16 Villager - Swiss Garden at Night FP Sept 19.indd Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding adverts 1 23/07/2019 to 12:40:59

Food and Drink

Dine in Style: Great British Restaurant The area of London around St James’s holds much interest, with Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, St James’s Park, Green Park and other popular locations only a short walk away. Mayfair and Knightsbridge districts, along with other shopping and designer outlets, satisfy many seeking ‘retail therapy’.

Dukes London is a ‘hidden gem’ and located in the heart of St James’s, an area which abounds in history and historic connections. St James’s Palace was built during the reign of King Henry 8th and the area soon became home to royalty, plus writers, musicians and politicians. Dukes London (Boutique five-star Red AA hotel) offers luxurious accommodation (80+ guest rooms), plus fine cuisine, to residents and nonresidents alike.

Dukes Great British Restaurant (GBR) offers all day dining, with dishes available as starters or main course options. English Burrata (Roasted onion squash, sage, toasted pumpkin seeds) is very popular, with wonderful flavours and excellent presentation. Chalk Stream Trout (Soft shell crab, roasted kohlrabi, crab sauce) is a regular choice too, from an impressive menu that has something for everyone, offering seafood, fish and meats. The ‘Daily Special’ changes each day, varying from Cumbrian Lamb Cutlets, through Salmon, to succulent, tender Rib-Eye Steak. Desserts can include Yorkshire Rhubarb and Lemon Meringue Pie. Executive Head Chef is Nigel Mendham. Nigel is passionate about great British food and ensures, with his very talented brigade of chefs and kitchen personnel, excellence at all times, with outstanding, complementing flavours.

Dukes Great British Jazz Brunch will jazz up everyones Sunday. This is style and sophistication, with bubbles (free-flowing, if you wish), Cured and Roasted Meats, Lobster Thermidor Omelette and much more. Dessert of Raspberry Cranachan, Waffles, Treacle Tart or Cheese Selection finishes the leisurely ‘experience’, wonderfully. Award-winning Dukes Bar is legendary and renowned for famous martinis and cocktails.

Dukes London offers the ‘Wedmin Weekend Package’, with engaged couples enjoying a two-night stay, plus champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, breakfasts and three course dinners with wine pairings.

Gift vouchers are available-perhaps surprise someone special?

Booking is advisable, particularly during popular times. A huge thank you to Denisa, for impeccable service throughout. A top recommendation.

Dukes London 35 St James’s Place, London SW1A 1NY Tel: 44 (0) 20 7491 4840 Email: gbrlondon@dukeshotel.com Email: bookings@dukeshotel.com www.dukeshotel.com

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

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HALLOWEEN MURDER MYSTERY EVENING

SATURDAY 26 OCTOBER 2019

Will you find out who the murderer was, the motive and how the killing was executed?

Includes a Three Course Meal - £60.00 Per Person www.shuttleworth.org/halloweenmurdermystery The House, Shuttleworth, Old Warden Park, Biggleswade, SG18 9EA

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18 Villager - Halloween Murder Mystery advert FP Sept Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding adverts 19.indd 1 23/07/2019 to 12:22:31

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Food & Drink

Polpettone

Italian Rolled Meatloaf

Make no mistake, this polpettone is pretty epic. It’s like a traditional meatloaf, only bigger, fuller, more dramatic and with more ingredients. It was created by Valentina Mamusa, who runs the delightful Valentina’s Café in Chiswell Green near St Albans. She runs it with her husband, Alberto. They always come on my show together and I call them Albertina! They moved to the UK with their young son for a new experience, opened their café and are now very much part of their local community. Italy’s loss is our gain, and this rolled meatloaf is magnificent.

Ingredients: 500g minced beef 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg 1 tbsp chopped parsley 6 eggs 100g grated parmesan 100g smoked cheese or Provolone 1 glove of garlic, crushed 200g spinach 1 pack thinly sliced bacon 1. Hard boil four of the eggs and let them cool. Pierce the spinach bag and pop it in the microwave for about a minute to wilt it. Alternatively you can pop the spinach in a pan with a little butter.

2. Mix the beef in a bowl with the remaining two eggs, nutmeg, salt and pepper, the parsley and the cheeses.

3. Lay a sheet of baking paper out on the worktop. Lay the bacon out on the paper and then flatten the beef mix out into a rectangle around 8-10mm in thickness on top of the bacon.

4. Add the spinach and top with the boiled eggs.

5. Tightly roll the mix up, using the baking paper as you go, in the same way as you would roll up a Swiss roll.

6. Pop this in a baking dish and leave it to chill for around an hour.

7. Heat your oven to 200C/ Gas Mark 5 and roast the polpettone for around 20-30 minutes. You want the bacon to have taken on lots of colour and the roll needs to be hot in the middle.

8. When it’s cooked, take it out of the oven and leave it to rest for 30 minutes.

9. Serve it in thick slices with mashed potato drizzled with the cooking liquor.

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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Big Bang Theory

Hair

Thinking of cutting a fringe?

Bangs are hairdresser-speak for a fringe, and they are all the rage right now as celebrities like Miley Cyrus, Emma Stone and Reese Witherspoon have all been photographed sporting them.

Bangs can be a fun and easy way to freshen-up your hairstyle, but you need to know which bangs will suit your face shape best.

Round - Go for thick side-swept bangs cut at a strong angle to break the shape of your face. Avoid straight-cut bangs as they will emphasise the roundness.

Square - Long heavy bangs that fall just below the eyebrows and are tapered down towards the outer corner of the eyes will soften the face. You can push the bangs to one side to further break-up the shape.

Avoid short straight bangs as they will make your face look squarer.

Long - Long choppy bangs with longer soft layers around the face with shorten and soften your features.

Baby bangs on the other hand will make your face look longer.

Heart-shape - Side-swept bangs which run from the brows to the cheekbones will emphasise your eyes and pretty, delicate chin. A full, blunt wide fringe will emphasise your wider forehead.

Oval - You are lucky. Your balanced features mean you can choose any style you like. Choose to emphasise the features you like best. Baby bangs will emphasise beautiful brows; eyebrow-grazing bangs will draw attention to your eyes, and if you love your cheekbones go for a Bardot style with soft layers that end at the top of the checks.

By Karen Campbell Have fun.

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House of Colour

Top Styling Tips for New Mums 1) You may spend a lot of time in jeans so make sure they are the right fit in a colour or tone that’s right for your season ie warm and dark for Autumns, cool and deep for Winters, bright and blue for Springs, and soft and cool for Summers, and they will then go with all the other colours in your season in your wardrobe.

2) Try to be as environmentally aware as possible.

Look out for products that are made from recycled fibres, organic cottons and quality materials.

Use locally sourced renewable materials when you can. Avoid polyester or nylon because they’re non-biodegradable. Synthetic fabrics are fashion’s equivalent to single-use plastic. Having a disposable mindset is not good for the planet’s health. Be choosey and ask yourself do you REALLY love the garment you are about to buy for your child. Enjoy hand-me downs.

3) Use jewellery to lift your outfit in any situation!

There will be times you won’t have time to sit and apply make-up for even 90 seconds before you need to dash out that door, but anyone can grab a necklace and earrings (unless of course your youngster is still at the ‘pretty thing, let me grab it’ stage)!

4) Don’t wear clothes that don’t fit even if you are a bit bigger than you once were. Drowning in oversized clothes is never a good look so don’t worry about your size and wear clothes that fit. Love your body and shape. Know what your best parts are and draw attention to those areas whether that means cinching in your waist or elongating a shorter mid-section for example. If you carry a bit of weight around your middle, but have shapely legs show them off in both your trouser and skirt choices.

5) Get a big bag with lots of pockets in one of your wow colours! This is a great way of adding your colours and style while out and about with your little one. There are so many designs and styles out there, you will be sure to find one that really suits you and your needs.

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6) Wearing a patterned top can hide a multitude of problems from stains to feelings of bloatedness.

Choose a pattern that suits your personality and scale in colours that suit your palette.

7) If you manage to get a rare night off, take the opportunity to dress up a little to get your mojo back! Dressing for your shape is all in the detail.

We all suit different hemlines, necklines, trouser lengths, lapels and sleeves, not to mention of course colours, fabrics, structure, patterns and details.

8) Wear a scarf in one of your wow colours to make your skin look brighter and fresher, it can also serve as a breastfeeding cover if needed.

9) The right lipstick can work wonders for a hardworking mum’s complexion, as can a natural blusher! Make sure you know whether you should be wearing warm or cool coloured lipsticks.

10) Whilst comfy shoes are key because you will be walking a lot when they are small and doing lots of chasing after them when they are toddlers, choose shoes that really suit your style and to add some fun – choose them in one of your brighter colours.

By Jennie Billings, Colour and Style Consultant, House of Colour www.houseofcolour.co.uk/jenniebillings e:jennie.billings@houseofcolour.co.uk

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Call Nadia on 07790 000256

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Health

TATT - Are you tired all the time?

How do you feel when you wake up? Are you refreshed and ready for the day? Or do you feel drained, like you’ve hardly slept.

GPs report that more patients are complaining of lack of energy. The syndrome even has its own name, TATT - which means tired all the time.

If you constantly feel lethargic it is important not to ignore it. TATT is common but there are steps you can take to help yourself. There are many different causes of fatigue, and a good place to start is a chat with your GP. If you feel overwhelming exhaustion, which gets worse rather than better with activity, and does not improve with rest, you might be suffering from myalgic encephalopathy (ME) or chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). There is not a definitive cure for these conditions but there are treatments and self-help measures that can help to ease the symptoms.

A GP will test for other medical problems that can cause tiredness, such as anaemia, thyroid issues, food intolerances or diabetes.

Many cases of TATT are related to mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety.

Traumatic life events, stress and money worries can also cause fatigue. Talking therapies can help in these cases, and your doctor may be able to

refer you to a counselling service.

If a GP has ruled out more serious underlying causes but you still feel tired, there are lifestyle changes that will help. First make sure you’re getting enough good quality sleep. Make it a priority for a few weeks to see how much better you feel. The Royal College of Psychologists’ advice is to have both a regular bedtime and wake time, and avoid napping. If you struggle to drop off try a soak in a warm bath before you go to bed because this will make you feel calm, and the drop in body temperature when you exit the bath fools the body to start to prepare for sleep.

Reduce your stress levels by scheduling relaxation time into your day. This could be something as simple as listening to your favourite music or meeting friends for a chat.

A good diet also plays a role in increasing your energy levels. Try eating small snacks throughout the day, rather than one large meal in the evening.

Avoid alcohol and drink more water. Cutting caffeine will also help but cut down gradually to minimise the risk of headaches.

Finally, a little light exercise is another proven way to fight fatigue. Even a quick 15-minute walk around the block will give boost your energy.

By Tracey Anderson

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Local News

Would you like less pain?

Are you in pain? Does it affect your daily life?

APS Pain Reduction Therapy may help you. It has enabled many people to: • Reduce pain • Sometimes become completely free from pain • Decrease swelling and inflammation • Improve quality of sleep • Increase energy What is APS Pain Reduction Therapy?

APS Therapy is a safe, drug-free therapy.

It’s a comfortable micro-current therapy which simulates the body’s own healing systems. It’s effective for relieving or completely alleviating pain in about 80% of people.

‘APS’ stands for ‘Action Potential Stimulation’. It involves placing tiny electrodes on your skin. It’s safe and painfree.

“I’ve had Sciatica for months. APS Pain Therapy has been fantastic. The pain no longer stops me in my tracks – I can move and sleep so much better now,” says Cathy M. The best way to see whether APS Pain Reduction Therapy may help you is to give it a go. We offer a free test session – book yours now by emailing APS@hmstc.net or call Claire on 01462 684 214.

APS therapy is not recommended for individuals with: active cancer, epilepsy or electrical implants (such as a pacemaker), or those who are pregnant, have had a stroke, heart attack or DVT/PE within the last three months.

Our team is happy to discuss any queries or questions you may have.

To find out more, please contacts us at APS@hmstc.net or call Claire on 01462 684 214.

You can also find details on our website: www.hertsmstherapy.org.uk

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Health

Water Works

By Tracey Anderson

Why we should all drink more water Ask most people how much fluid they are supposed to drink in a day, and they will reply “Eight glasses of water.” This number has seeped into the public consciousness over the past couple of decades so it might surprise you to know that it has very little basis in science!

However, it is important to stay properly hydrated.

Fewer people know that if you feel thirsty you are already dehydrated, and this has a real impact on how your body and brain function.

Dehydration leads to a decrease in our physical performance. Losing just 2% of your body’s water contact can cause fatigue, problems with temperature control, and make exercise feel more difficult, physically and mentally, and it’s not uncommon for people to lose 6-10% of their body’s total water content through sweat during a workout, and as muscle is 80% water this increases muscle stress.

Our brains are also strongly influenced by hydration. Studies have shown that even mild dehydration impacts brain function. In separate studies of men and women it was found that about 1.5% fluid loss impaired mood and concentration, decreased working memory, and increased feeling of anxiety, fatigue and the frequency of headaches.

1.5% fluid loss can easily occur during normal daily activities, never mind during exercise or hot weather. Worryingly the effects of dehydration are shown to be worse in children and the elderly.

There has been some scientific interest in the effect

of increasing hydration on migraine sufferers. So far, some studies have shown that while keeping hydrated doesn’t stop migraines completely, sufferers in the studies reported that the frequency and intensity of the migraines decreased when they were properly hydrated.

Constipation is a common health problem and can be serious in children and the elderly. Low water consumption does appear to be a risk factor in these cases. Some studies have shown that carbonated water seems to help the situation more than still water though scientists haven’t yet explained why.

Alcohol acts as a diuretic, so it makes you lose more water than you take in. The dehydration effects of alcohol are responsible for the thirst, fatigue, and headache which inevitably accompany a hangover.

It’s a good idea to alternated alcoholic drinks with water and to drink a large glass of water before going to sleep, after a night out on the town.

Finally, water both increases satiety and boost metabolism so is great if you’re trying to lose weight. Studies show that dieters who drank half a litre of water before each meal lost 44% more weight over a period of 12 weeks.

Try it. Make a real attempt to stay properly hydrated for a week and monitor the results. You may be surprised.

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Life Begins...

By Kate McLelland

Here’s to a dementiafriendly future “We want to make Knaresborough a town where people living with dementia feel understood, respected, supported and confident so that they can contribute to life in the community.” So says Alison Wrigglesworth, Services Manager for Harrogate and Knaresborough Alzheimer’s Society.

The Yorkshire town of Knaresborough is one of the latest in a long line of UK towns to declare themselves a ‘dementiafriendly Community’ (DFC).

Dementia is not, as many people believe, a natural consequence of old age (although the older you are, the more likely you are to be affected) and it is predicted that the number of UK residents with the condition will increase to over one million by 2025. That figure is set to double by 2051.

Given these statistics, it’s seems likely that in future our public health and social care services could struggle to care for people who develop the condition.

Dementia-friendly initiatives therefore serve a dual purpose: helping people stay at home for as long as possible and relieving some of the burden that would otherwise be placed on our public care providers.

What are the issues?

Things we all take for granted, such as using technology, getting served in shops and banks, going on holiday or enjoying hobbies are difficult when you have dementia, but they can become even harder when the individuals around you don’t know how to respond appropriately.

For this reason it’s not uncommon for people to shut themselves away as their condition progresses, even though this can make them feel isolated and depressed. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, over two-thirds of those polled have reported feeling lonely.

What is a ‘dementia-friendly community’?

A dementia-friendly community is a place where people with dementia are understood, respected and supported. It can be a street, village, town, city or region, an organisation, a group or even a virtual community.

There are no hard and fast rules to follow when setting up a community of your own. Instead, local people are encouraged to decide what works best for them.

While flexibility is encouraged, there are certain measures that are regularly adopted by towns and cities who want to become

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DFCs. Businesses that regularly come into contact with older people, such as banks and taxi firms, are asked to provide extra support for customers with dementia, while museums and art galleries are encouraged to offer dementia-friendly activities. Other initiatives include ‘dementia cafes’ and drop-in centres. In the public realm planners use clear signage, creating well-defined open spaces with public toilets, seats, shelters and good lighting.

Most DFCs are keen to engage local people as ‘Dementia Friends’.

These are individuals willing to promote the aims of the DFC, from spreading awareness about the condition to spending time with people with dementia.

Currently almost three million have signed up to this initiative on the Dementia Friends website (dementiafriends.org.uk).

The Alzheimer’s Society has estimated that one in six people aged over 80 in the United Kingdom currently has dementia, and a further 225,000 people will be diagnosed this year.

There’s clearly no time to lose, so it’s reassuring to see that new dementia-friendly communities, just like the one in Knaresborough, are appearing every day.

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We take time to listen and find the best way forward Contact us to arrange your free initial 30 minute visit (We are happy to come to you for a small extra charge)

Wills Our staff have successfully drafted Wills for many years; truly we are experts.

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Helping you prove a Will after death.

£545 inc. Plus Court fees [unless it is a huge estate] to obtain a Grant of Probate from the Court

Lasting Power of Attorney Arranging for a relative/friend to act on your behalf if you lose mental capacity.

£350 inc. Plus Court fees to draft & register with Public Guardian Office Contact us for some friendly advice: 01462 674767 Abbeyhill 507 Broadway Letchworth SG6 3PT mhprobateservices@gmail.com

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35

Technology

Valuable VPN!

By Mark O’Keefe

Use a virtual private network to protect your data In a coffee shop the other day I took my phone out to catch up on some emails. The customer Wi-Fi was free so of course I connected and started browsing the web. I glanced up at one point and all around me a number of people were busy doing the same thing. It suddenly struck me that everyone was on the same network, so how safe was my information?

Then I wondered whether my home was really any safer.

Any time we use the Internet for browsing, watching videos, answering email, or any of our apps, our phone or computer has a digital conversation with other computers. If someone monitors this conversation, they will see what we’re looking at, who we’re talking to and, if the computer we’re talking to isn’t secure, our account details and passwords are vulnerable.

Organisations make a lot of money from gathering this sort of information. It’s called Big Data. Think of those pop-up ads that seem to know exactly the sorts of things we like.

So how can we stop the snoopers?

Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a great solution. This works by using our Internet connection to securely connect us to a VPN server.

Hackers can see we’ve made the connection but can’t see anything we’re doing. Our device tells the VPN server what we want to do, and it goes on to the Internet to do it for us. It then sends that

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information back to our device using this secure connection.

This technique has a number of advantages.

All our browsing is carried out by the VPN server.

No one can track our activity back to our computer.

Governments, hackers and websites can only see the VPN server, and these don’t keep any records of who was using the system.

Everything we do online instantly becomes fully encrypted. We can connect to public Wi-Fi hotspots without worrying about somebody stealing our information.

Most VPN systems allow connection to servers in different countries. It’s then possible to access websites and services as if you were based in that country. However big organisations like Netflix invest a lot of money trying to stop people using VPN connections to get US shows from the UK. In countries where the Internet is censored, using a VPN can bypass the censorship and allow access the information from forbidden sites.

VPN services cost a few pounds per month to rent.

Sometimes internet security software offers the service as part of their package.

So, if you do use lots of public Wi-Fi networks it’s well worth the investment. If you’re worried about people tracking your online activity and building up a personal profile of your likes and dislikes, then VPN is the easy solution.

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DO YOU NEED TO MAKE OR UPDATE YOUR WILL? We offer a FREE initial appointment to discuss your circumstances, offering advice on Wills including ring-fencing your home from care and guidance regarding Inheritance Tax Nil Rate Bands.

HOME VISITS are available at NO EXTRA CHARGE within a 20-mile Radius of Royston.

SATURDAY MORNING appointments available on the following dates:* 31st AUGUST, 14th SEPTEMBER and 28th SEPTEMBER 2019 FREE WILL SERVICE for the over 55’s through the Cancer Research Free Will Scheme.

For more information please contact:Fish Hill Chambers, 2-3 Fish Hill, Royston, Herts. SG8 9JY Tel: 01763 241 121 t.pilcher@walkerspartnership.co.uk Wills | Probate | Lasting Powers of Attorney | Conveyancing | Commercial Property *Home visit appointments are subject to availability.

Saturdays by appointment only.

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Finance

By Ann Haldon

Managing Your Money at University Newfound independence can be exhilarating when you go away to university for the first time, but starting life in a new city also has its challenges. Worries about studying and making new friends can creep in as the new term nears, but managing money is also a significant issue.

The good news is that it’s not difficult to control your finances and live within your means at university, so where do you start as a new student?

Make a budget every month Once you’re set up, budgeting only takes a few minutes every month, and is a fundamental part of managing money. Initially, you need to establish how much money is coming in and the amount you’re likely to spend.

Your income could consist of a maintenance loan, a grant or scholarship, wages from a job or financial contributions from parents, and outgoings can be divided into essential living costs and variable expenses.

Essential living costs typically include food, rent, heating, council tax, contents insurance, mobile phone, broadband and TV licence, with variable expenses including items such as clothes, entertainment, course materials, travel and savings.

Choose the best student bank account A student bank account should offer easily accessible support and services specifically designed for undergraduates. An interest-free overdraft is commonly offered when you open a student bank account, but a credit card may also be available subject to eligibility.

Banks often advertise free gifts to entice students

to open an account, but don’t be swayed unless the gift is of particular use to you. A student rail card can be extremely helpful if you’re living a long distance from home, for example, as it saves onethird on the cost of rail travel in the UK. Nationwide FlexStudent¹ • Fee-free overdraft facility of £1,000 in the first year, £2,000 in the second, and £3,000 in the third year if you pay in at least £500 per term, subject to status.

• UK-only call centres.

Santander 123 Student² • Interest-free arranged overdraft of up to £1,500 per year subject to status.

• A free four-year 16-25 Railcard that saves you one-third on the price of rail travel in the UK. • Cash back of up to 15% at major retailers.

Take advantage of all student discounts The National Union of Students (NUS) offers a TOTUM³ card for one, two, or three years, with over 200 discounts available in the UK and more than 42,000 discounts worldwide. Cards cost £12, £22, and £32 for one year, two years and three years respectively, and at the time of writing discounts include: • 10% at Co-op • 25% at Odeon cinemas • 30% at Lonely Planet Managing your money at university doesn’t need to be difficult – you just have to be aware of how much is coming into your account and the amount you’re spending. Budgeting is the best way to stay in control and it’s well worth the extra time to keep an eye on your finances.

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Gardening

Going Green With the ground still warm from the summer sun and moisture levels in the soil increasing, September is the perfect time to create a new lawn.

Using grass seed is cheaper than buying turf, plus you can choose a suitable grass mixture and the lawn can be shaped without having to cut pieces of turf.

First, examine the site and calculate the total area to be seeded, then study the grass seed packs in your local garden centre. Your choice will be between various grades of utility lawn (usually containing some rye grass for toughness), finer lawns that need more care and mixtures suitable for partial shade.

It will be about three weeks before the seedlings emerge and then about ten weeks before the lawn can be cut, so bear this in mind when choosing your start time.

Remove all weeds (including roots), old grass and debris. Perennial weeds should be dug out or killed off with weedkiller – those containing glyphosate allow grass seed to be sown straight away.

Dig over and examine the area – ideally you want a light, free-draining loam that does not become too dry in summer, or waterlogged or compacted in winter. Add horticultural sand and some bulky organic matter to heavy soil to improve drainage, and dig plenty of well-rotted organic matter into light soil for better moisture retention.

Rake the soil repeatedly to achieve a level surface free from large stones, plant remains or other debris. Gauge the level by eye or use a system of

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By Pippa Greenwood

pegs and a spirit level if necessary.

Spread some granular general fertilizer evenly over the prepared area. Firm by treading it over evenly in flat-soled shoes or boots, paying particular attention to the edges – this prevents subsidence later.

Lawn seed germinates best in warm, moist conditions so avoid hot, dry weather and wait until just before rain is forecast.

Using pack directions, weigh out the quantity of grass seed needed for one square metre. Mark the corners of a one metre square plot and distribute the seed evenly over it – this shows you how correctly sown seed should look, thus acting as a guide for sowing the remainder. Sowing too thinly encourages weeds; sowing too thickly means poor-quality seedlings that are less likely to thrive.

For most gardens hand sowing is perfect; for larger lawns borrowing or hiring a machine may be worthwhile. Sow the entire area with the lawn seed and lightly rake over a thin layer of soil to partially incorporate the seed into the soil.

Water regularly with a fine sprinkler or watering can. Use twigs or cane with taut cotton tied between them, or netting stretched taut, to deter birds.

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood. com and you’ll find Pippa’s September-dispatch vegetable plant collection along with other gardening items: Nemaslug, atylish cloches, practical and pretty plant supports, the fantastic SpeedHoe, gardening tools, planters, Grower Frames, signed books and more! Or why not book Pippa for a gardening talk?

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Garden View

The Privet Hedge

By Rachael Leverton One of the questions I’m often asked as a gardener is ‘How do I trim my privet hedge?’

Privet hedges aren’t a particularly sexy subject for a gardening article, but hedge-trimming seems to cause a lot of angst so let me tackle it here.

Privet is one of our most popular hedging plants.

It has dense foliage which is green all year round, and it’s hardy which means it’s suited to a wide range of planting sites. It’s also available in a selection of varieties and root types, so there’s a Privet hedge to suit most gardens.

Autumn is a good time to trim them because there’s little chance of disturbing any birds who might be nesting in them. Nesting season generally runs from March to early August.

If you have a small hedge like those outside terraced town houses, then hand-held hedge shears are fine, but for large hedges an electric or even a petrol hedge-trimmer is definitely easier. If you have one, give it a check over and make sure it’s sharp and well lubricated.

Safety should be paramount. Wear safety goggles and sturdy gloves. It’s not overkill. I once spent Saturday afternoon in eye casualty because a small sharp twig flew into my eye while I was trimming a hedge. It hurt and took ages to heal properly so be warned. Before starting, remove any potential obstacles on the ground which might

prove to be a trip hazard. Avoid using powered tools above shoulder height; instead use a sturdy step ladder set on stable ground. If your hedge trimmer is electric use a residual current device (RCD) for safety purposes, and don’t use it in damp conditions.

One little trick I learned at a hedge-cutting course a few years ago is to cut hedges so that they are slightly tapered on both sides. This will mean the base is wider than the top and light can reach the bottom of the hedge, which means the hedge will be greener and look healthier.

Top tips to ensure an even, symmetrical hedge: Straight edges are difficult to cut by eye. Use a taut horizontal string tied between two stout canes to act as a guide so you can cut the top of the hedge level. For vertical lines use canes or stakes pushed into the ground.

When using shears, ensure that the top of the hedge is cut level and flat by keeping the blades of the shears parallel to the line of the hedge.

When using a hedge trimmer, keep the blade parallel to the hedge and use a wide, sweeping action working from the bottom of the hedge upwards, so that the cut foliage falls away

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Happy Gardening 43

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Travel

By Solange Hando

Tamil Nadu Top UNESCO Site in India On the Bay of Bengal, south of Chennai, these enchanting temples and shrines echo a glorious past to the sound of ocean waves. Eroded by wind, time and sea, they are still an outstanding display of Dravidian architecture, bequeathed by the first Pallava kings, father and son, in the 6th-7th centuries.

The site frequently changed its name but today it is best known as Mamallapuram, the place of ‘Mamallan’, the ‘wrestler’, referring to the first king.

From the ocean to the hillside, this vast outdoor complex holds you spellbound, starting with the ‘Five Rathas’ glowing coppery gold on the southern side. Shaped like ‘chariots’ carrying Hindu deities at festival time, each shrine was chiselled out of one huge boulder, starting from the top. Gently fanned by casuarinas, they are all different, one guarded by lions propping up the porch and a majestic elephant nearby, others looking like a thatched hut, a covered cart or a pyramid draped in sculptures of deities,

royal couples, comic figures and wildlife. The largest and most intricate is the lofty Dharmaraja, an art gallery in its own right.

Just beyond the Rathas, the hillside beckons with bas-reliefs and mysterious caves. This is a different world where carvings may send shivers down your spine, from battles against a buffalo-headed demon to boarlike Vishnu plunging into the ocean to rescue Mother Earth.

The Krishna sanctuary shows gentle scenes of pastoral life as the god lifts the mountain to protect shepherds from the wrath of rain. All these amazing carvings are the legacy of Pallavan artisans, most impressive among them the ‘Descent of the Ganges’. It’s the biggest outdoor bas-relief in the world, 96 feet long and 43 feet high, carved with nearly 1,000 figures of animals, humans and gods. According to legend this is where Lord Shiva brought the Ganges from heaven down to earth, letting it trickle through his matted hair. Then the river went its own way but you can

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still see the cleft in the rock.

Meanwhile saris flutter across this ancient site, bright red and gold, as locals make their way to the aptly named Shore Temple, the only survivor of the ‘Seven Pagodas’ mentioned by early travellers. The 2004 tsunami uncovered some extensive foundations but the undamaged Shore Temple rises above it all, its sculpted pyramids dominating the landscape from afar, resplendent yet haunted by shadows from a distant past.

Built in granite around 700 AD, it includes rock-cut shrines to Shiva and Vishnu and the ‘Mother of the Universe’ seated on a lion’s leg. Beautifully set on lush ground, away from the crowds and souvenir stalls, the compound is enclosed by a low tumbling wall where ‘Nandis’, the legendary bulls ridden by Shiva, have kept watch for over 1,000 years. It’s an inspiring backdrop for the midwinter festival but whatever the season, there is no better place to watch the sunset over the hills as ocean waves crash relentlessly on the shore.

GILKS FENCING LTD

All Types of Fencing, Gates & Railings, SUPPLIED & INSTALLED

Call for a FREE Survey & Quotation Visit our Display Area at:

Gilks Fencing

Drove Road, Gamlingay, Sandy, Beds SG19 2HX Tel:

01767 650 615

Email:

gilksfencing@hotmail.com

www.gilksfencing.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Pets

Rehoming Appeal Dusty Dusty is a Netherland Dwarf doe rabbit. She has previously been a house rabbit although she is happy in a hutch. She loves to jump and run around both in the house, hutch and run, and is also very happy to sit on your lap and watch tv! Dusty likes a lot of attention.

She is litter trained, vaccinated, neutered and is ready to go to her special home.

For more information please contact Hazel on 01234 357788.

Alternatively, please email Philippa at info.rats@gmail.com who will be pleased to forward your enquiry onto the team.

View other dogs, cats and small mammals 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.

N O T YO U R AV E R A G E H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T C O M PA N Y

RESINBOUND DRIVEWAYS

MAINTENANCE AND WEED FREE HARD WEARING QUICK INSTALLATION CAN BE USED AS OVERLAY BESPOKE DESIGNS SUITABLE FOR DRIVEWAYS, PATHS AND PATIOS • 10 YEAR GUARANTEE • • • • • •

0800 046 1080 UP TO 30% OFF IN SEPTEMBER hello@thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk www.thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Animal

Pets

Know-How

We have a very special appeal this month for a lovely cat, Sally, who is in need of a long term foster home. Foster carer’s play such an important role in our animal welfare work, which can help care for special animals on behalf of our Branch, in a comfortable home environment.

Sally is a special cat indeed, sadly found as a stray but nobody claimed her. She was in a poor way when she was picked up, so was taken straight to our vets. Her mouth was full of rotten teeth and she was very weak and frail. Under our vets’ advice, Sally had an emergency dental and it was also discovered she had a thyroid problem. On closer inspection, our vet suspected her age to be around 14 years old!

Once recovered from her dental she was moved to our private boarding cattery, where she took refuge in her igloo cat bed. Her first few days were touch and go, hardly leaving her hiding spot and refusing to eat. However, it turned out she was just biding her time, as once she was tempted with some lovely fresh fish she soon got her appetite back! Two months later she is doing much better, dinner time is now her favourite time of day and she has even moved out of her igloo and into another cosy cat bed.

Sally is a very sweet and friendly lady, who likes the occasional fuss but will also happily tell you when she’s not in the mood. Now we are looking for a foster home for Sally to retire. Any potential

Sally

foster carer’s will care for Sally in the comfort of their own home, whilst still officially being under our care. This will also include taking her to any potential vet appointments she may have at our vets in Sandy.

For more information about coming a long tern foster carer for Sally, please contact us by calling our office on 01234 266965.

Another cat we have in our care is Felix, who is waiting for his second chance in a loving new home. Also found as a stray with nobody to claim him. He was found limping with an injured leg, which our vet believes is an old injury causing him a bit of grief. We believe he is approximately 4 years old, a friendly cat, but very independent!

He doesn’t like cattery life, so we are keen to find him his perfect new home. Ideally this would be somewhere he can be an only cat, given plenty of time to settle in and keep himself amused. Felix loves nothing more than to be outside, which is where he is likely to spend most of his time, but he is also happy to come indoors when he fancies it.

A home where he can come and go as he pleases would be perfect!

To adopt Felix, or for information about any other cats waiting for new homes, please visit our website www.rspca.org.uk/local/bedfordshirenorth-branch

Brought to you by the RSPCA Bedfordshire North Branch www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Technology

Technology for the new term You don’t need to pay full price for your child’s computing

If your child needs a computer for schoolwork, don’t get downhearted by the high prices you’ll see in your local Apple Store or electronics emporium. You don’t need to spend a lot to get a good computer.

There are three main types of computer. Windows ones, which run Windows 10 (don’t get ones with older versions; that usually means the hardware’s really old too); Chromebooks, which run Google’s Chrome operating system; and Apple ones. For most places the choice is entirely up to you, but some specialist courses at college or university may require specialist software.

If you’re looking for a Windows or Chromebook laptop, there’s good news: those kinds of laptops are almost always on sale, so you can expect a wide range of bargains. Sites such as Techradar. com have monthly round-ups of the best deals, organised into price bands: at the time of writing there’s a really nice Asus laptop for just £159, while more expensive laptops are available with discounts ranging from £175

to over £400. Sites often provide reviews of the products, so you can be sure you’re not buying something that won’t be up to the job.

Another way to save cash is to buy a refurbished computer.

This means it’s been used by somebody else and then returned to as-new condition. A number of firms specialise in such computers and the discounts can be enormous: for example, Laptops Direct currently has a perfectly decent Windows 10 laptop for just £109.

If your child wants Apple kit, you’ll know it’s often very expensive.

Shopping around doesn’t usually uncover much in the way of discounts but you can still save money if you know where to look. Apple has a refurbished Mac store on Apple.com. and at the time of writing it’s offering Mac minis with a typical saving of £140, alongside MacBooks, MacBook Airs, MacBook Pros and iMacs with £160 to £190 off.

Third party refurbished sellers can offer even bigger discounts but check the age of the product: may

third-party computers are a few years old, which isn’t necessarily a problem but does affect how big a bargain you’re getting: don’t compare the price of a threeyear-old Mac with what Apple’s charging for a new one.

End of line stock can be good too. Every time Apple updates its product range, the previous models are often sold at a discount. Keep an eye on eBay and you can save stacks – we’re writing this on an iMac we got brand new for two-thirds of the list price by looking for end of line stock – but make sure you stick to business sellers with solid, positive feedback going back years.

Last but not least, there are second-hand computers. Many ‘power users’ replace their computers regularly, and those computers are still more than powerful enough for the rest of us. eBay and classified advertising sites such as Gumtree can be great sources of good secondhand computers, but be wary. If something seems too good to be true, it usually is.

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WINDOW REPAIRS

Serving all of Herts - Based in Stevenage Specialising in replacing misted units

BEFORE AFTER email: info@jmlwindows.co.uk website: www.jmlwindows.co.uk 07977 911 926 / 01438 906300 • Misted/broken double glazed units • Sticking doors or windows adjusted • Broken/loose handles • Leaded or Georgian units replaced • Hinges for gapping windows • Leaks fixed • All types of locks replaced • Energy saving Planitherm glass • Cat/dog flaps in glass or panels • Door re-alignments Visit our website for over 30 customer reviews To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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N O T YO U R AV E R A G E H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T C O M PA N Y

WALL COATING

ALL REPAIRS UNDERTAKEN BREATHABLE COATINGS WEATHER PROOF SMOOTH OR TEXTURED SELF CLEANING PROTECTS YOUR WALLS CLEAN & TIDY INSTALLATION SUITABLE FOR MASONRY OR RENDER • COLOUR MATCH AVAILABLE • 10 YEAR GUARANTEE • • • • • • • •

Before After

0800 046 1080 UP TO 30% OFF IN SEPTEMBER hello@thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk www.thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk 58

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

Covering Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Essex.

01438 211302 info@eastanglianloftladders.co.uk eastanglianloftladders.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

Call now for a free, no obligation quotation 59

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Easy Suduko

Hard Suduko

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

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n O s ’ t Wha In September

Deadline for What’s On entries is the 12th of the previous month.

What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.com

1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 September Hare & Hounds Hash House Harriers 11am H5 are a social running and walking club for mixed abilities, meeting every week in the Bedfordshire area. The trail is set by our hare from a local pub and typically lasts 1 hour covering between 3 and 4 miles. Email: info@h5hashers.org.uk Web: www.H5hashers.org.uk

2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 September 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 then called and you don’t need to come with a partner.

Car parking is available next to the hall.

Tel. 01462 624144 Web: www.staplers.org.uk

2 September Drop-In Session 10.30am-12 noon Baldock Library Nothing to do on a Monday morning? Come and join us in the library for a monthly drop-in session.

Make new friends. Jigsaws. Colouring for calming.

Tea/coffee/biscuits. No need to book.

2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 September 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. The club organises regular events, such as dinners, discos, meals, parties, Sunday walks, theatre and concert visits, day and weekend trips and holidays.

Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 www.branch-out.org.uk

2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 September 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. Tel: 07981 825654 Email: Heather sandymoo@moo-music.co.uk Web: www.moo-music.co.uk/sbs 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 September Baby Rhyme Time 10.30-11am Letchworth 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 ages.

2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 September Café Connect 1-4pm Arlesey Resource Centre, High Street, 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, learn something new, develop your community and all with free tea, coffee and cakes! This project is delivered

by Community Action Bedfordshire and NOAH Enterprise, and funded by Central Bedfordshire Council and Public Health. Tel: Priya 07814 704203 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 September Stevenage New Pathways 1-4pm Friends Meeting House Cuttys Lane, Stevenage £2 inc. hot drink & biscuits. A friendly place to meet and talk over issues in a positive way. Maybe go for walks, bring in speakers, form a craft group.

Email: katiewilsonmind@gmail.com 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 September Stevenage Choral Society 7.45-9.45pm Stevenage Music Centre, Nobel School, Stevenage The society 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 and be part of a friendly and supportive team. Tel: 01438 365769 Email: info@stevenagechoral.org.uk Web: www.stevenagechoral.org.uk

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3, 5, 10, 12, 17 & 19 September Willian Bowls Club Tues 2pm & Thurs 6pm Lower Green, Norton Common, Icknield Way, Letchworth Final dates for the outdoor season; see you in 2020!

Come and have a bowl with us one Tuesday at 2pm if you are free. Tel: David on 01462 642790 Web: www.willianbowlsclub.org 3, 10, 17 & 24 September Rosehill Community Singing Group 2-3pm Letchworth Centre for Healthy Living, Hitchin Road, Letchworth £4. A new group for the over 50s that meets every Tuesday with refreshments and time to chat after each session! The Monday group is now full. Dropin session, no need to book.

3, 10, 17 & 24 September 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 4, 11, 18 & 25 September 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.

4, 11, 18 & 25 September Toddler Tales 2.15-2.45pm Letchworth Library Free event – voluntary contribution of £1 per family welcomed. Toddler Tales is a mix of lively stories and rhymes. The stories chosen are aimed at toddlers and preschool children.

4, 11, 18 & 25 September 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

5 September Baldock Floral Society 7.15pm Community Centre, Baldock Everyone welcome.

5, 12, 19 & 26 September Letchworth Corner Bridge Club 1.15pm The Cloisters Masonic Lodge, Letchworth Letchworth Corner Bridge Club plays duplicate Bridge every Thursday afternoon. We usually play 27 boards which takes just over 3 hours. Refreshments, including fresh homemade cakes are available. The club warmly invites visits from prospective new members. Tel: John Biggs 01462 433393 5, 12, 19 & 26 September Toddler Tales 2.15-2.45pm Baldock Library Free event – voluntary contribution of £1 per family welcomed. Toddler Tales is a mix of lively stories and rhymes. The stories chosen are aimed at toddlers and preschool children.

5, 12, 19 & 26 September Baldock Community Orchestra 7.15pm Knights Templar School (Room CS1), Baldock £7 per week or 10 week term £50. A friendly group of musicians. Come and give us a try, first session free!

Tel: Rachel Dawson 07818 480332 5, 12, 19 & 26 September Roundabouters Country Dance Club 8-10pm Friends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage Friendly club for English country dancing. We welcome new members, both beginners and experienced. All dances walked through; club and guest callers ensure a varied programme.

Tel: 01438 727239 Email: roundabouters@live.co.uk Web: www.roundabouters.org.uk 5, 12, 19 & 26 September 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 on Thursday and Saturday evenings as well as day trips and weekends away. New members always welcome. Tel: 01438 231550.

Email: welcome@stevenage.plus Web: www.stevenageplus.co.uk 5, 12, 19 & 26 September Sapphire Social Club 8.30pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin A small and friendly group for single people generally aged 50 and above, offering a variety of social events during the month and the opportunity to meet and make new friends. Potential new members are warmly welcome to come along with no joining fee for the first two months.

Tel: Joyce 07952 678021 or Ian 07900 890583 for info Web: www.sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk

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n O s ’ t Wha In September

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

6, 13, 20 & 27 September Baldock Health Walk 11am Tesco car park, 58 High Street, Baldock Mind in Herts Health Walk every Friday. Walking is a great way to get active and get away from the stresses and strains of everyday life.

Tel: Stephanie Flint 01438 369215 Email: stephanie.flint@mindinherts.org.uk Web: www.mindinherts.org.uk

6, 13, 20 & 27 September 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 6, 13, 20 & 27 September Rainmakers International Folk Dance Club 8-10pm The Parish Hall, Broadway, Letchworth We enjoy folk dances of all styles from many countries around the world and meet most Fridays. Come on your own or with a friend.

Tel: Roger 01438 812766 or Jill 01462 457791 Web: www.rainmakers.org.uk 7 September Ashwell Horticultural Society Autumn Show Entries 8.45-11am, Show 2.30pm St Mary’s Church Open to members and residents of Ashwell.

Wide variety of sections for Flowers, Vegetables, Domestic classes, Handicrafts, Art & Photography.

Refreshments, side stalls, raffle and produce sale.

Web: www.ashwellhortics.btck.co.uk 7 September Weekend Stories 10.30-11am Baldock Library Free event – voluntary contribution of £1 per family welcomed. Stories chosen are aimed at toddlers and preschool children.

7 September Arlesey Summer Fête 12-5pm Arlesey Recreation Ground, High Street, Arlesey Traditional summer fête with stalls, food, bar, amusements, dog show, birds of prey demo, Street Theatre, classic cars and BBMF Lancaster flypast.

Tel: 07790 549021 for further info Email: arleseyeventsgroup@gmail.com 7 September Family Fun, Food & Film! Meppershall 3pm Meppershall Village Hall Free entry. Stalls, food, drink, and family entertainment. Inside the new Village Hall will be a Lifestyle section offering crafts and quality merchandise. Pop-up Outdoor Cinema in the evening showing a sing-along family film. Food and drink will be available. Popular cover Band RF2 will be playing live in the Village Hall.

8 September Biggleswade & District Scouts 12.30-4.30pm District HQ, Boyd Campsite & Activity Centre, Church Road, Henlow All adults who are involved in Scouting in Biggleswade & District (including those signed up to help occasionally as parent helpers) are invited to contribute towards the Development Plan. It is an opportunity to provide input into the future strategy for growth and development across the District, to improve Scouting and deliver more opportunities for young people across the District.

Please let Rob know if you are attending for refreshments. Mobile: 07989 987147 E: Rob.Pullinger@biggleswadedistrictscouts.org.uk 10 September Transition Tuesday: Letchworth’s Plastic Free Journey, The Sequel 7.30-9.15pm Mrs Howard Memorial Hall, Norton Way South, Letchworth Presenting the successes and challenges involved in achieving Plastic Free Community Status for Letchworth and discussing ideas for future actions to reduce our reliance on plastics. We will also be exploring how we can support North Herts District Council meet its aim of becoming a ‘Plastic Free’ District. Admission free but £2 donation to help cover room hire and refreshments is welcome.

10 & 24 September 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. Organised visits and events throughout the year. New members welcome. Tel: Roger Burt 01438 351891 Email: roger@mazda20.plus.com 11 September 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. Come with friends or make new friends whilst you are here. Stay for the afternoon quiz. Two-course hot lunch with soft drink. Please advise any dietary requirements when booking. Everyone is 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 September Heritage Open Day 12-5pm Church of St Mary Magdalene, Caldecote Free admission. Abandon the beaten track to explore this pint-sized pile of history dating from 1350 with a trove of original features.

Ample parking. Wheelchair access. Church guide.

Donations to Restoration Fund welcome.

T: 01462 895830 E: grazyna.tutak@ntlworld.com Web: www.caldecotechurchfriends.org

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

14 September & 5 October Mid Beds Cancer Support Group 11am-1pm Village Hall, Walnut Tree Way, Meppershall Meppershall and all surrounding areas. Informal cancer group for patients, families, friends and carers who wish to meet others for support and information. Tel: 01462 813943 or 07961 377526 Email: daksha.trivedi@btconnect.com 15 September RSPB Hitchin & Letchworth Local Group Coach Trip Coach fare Adult £16, Under 18s £8 Joint trip with RPSB Stevenage Local Group. We will explore the varied habitats of Rye Harbour on the East Sussex coast looking for departing summer visitors, coastal and woodland birds and other wildlife. Coach departs from Hitchin at 7.45am, Letchworth at 8.00am and Stevenage at 8.15am.

Reserve entry charges may apply. Tel: 01462 451320 Email: martinrjspc@hotmail.com 17 & 24 September, 1 & 8 October Parent Career Coaching Workshop 10-11.30am Symonds Green Community Centre, Stevenage £12.50 per session. Four Tuesday sessions with Jessica Cox, accredited career coach and recruitment professional, who will help you if you are a parent returning to work, looking for a new job or considering a career change. You will gain the tools to get you noticed, write a CV that stands out and much more. Tel: Jessica Cox 07388 537435 Web: https://peakperformancehr.co.uk/contact/ 20 September Starlight Hike Shuttleworth Estate Online registration is open with a 5km or 10km route option. In aid of Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice.

Web: www.sueryder.org/stjohnsstarlighthike.

21 September Weston Music Society Concert 7.30pm Weston Parish Church, SG4 7DJ Tickets £16 inc. programme & interval drink, Under 19s free, 19-25 years £5. Paul Galbraith guitarist.

He is well known internationally for his unique 8-stringed ‘Brahms’ guitar, for his many acclaimed recordings and frequent world-wide performances.

Call or email to reserve tickets. Tel: 01462 790573 Email: felicitylowe@yahoo.co.uk Web: www.westonmusicsociety.org.uk or https://www.wegottickets.com 26 September Stevenage Locomotive Society 7.30pm Community Arts Centre, Roaring Meg Retail Park Members free, Visitors £2. Jack Boskett ‘Through the lens’. Web: www.stevenagelocosociety.co.uk 27 & 28 September and 4 & 5 October HATS present Seasons Greetings 7.30pm Meppershall Village Hall Adults £10, Children £5. HATS present the much acclaimed popular comedy by Alan Ayckbourn ‘Seasons Greetings’. Tel: Tickets Clare 01462 700785

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Painting & Decorating Property Maintenance 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

N O T YO U R AV E R A G E H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T C O M PA N Y

EPDM RUBBER ROOFING

• FIRESTONE RUBBER-BOND • 20 YEAR MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY • SUPERIOR DURABILITY • ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY • QUICK INSTALLATION • MAINTENANCE FREE • FLEXIBLE • LICENSED FIRESTONE INSTALLER

0800 046 1080 UP TO 30% OFF IN SEPTEMBER hello@thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk www.thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk 66

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James Cullip

Painting & Decorating

• interior/exterior - all aspects

IAN SIMPSON Carpentry and Joinery

• wallpaper hanging • coving • general household maintenance

All aspects of carpentry work undertaken

• plastering services available

Kitchens, Bedrooms, Doors, Windows

• free estimates

25 years experience

• fully insured

Free estimates Please call 01462 851695 or 07967162448 E-mail ij_simpson@hotmail.com

References available t: 01462 817 122 m: 07899 888 545 e: go_on_james@hotmail.com www.cullippaintinganddecorating.co.uk 10 Mill Lane, Campton, Shefford, Beds

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

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

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

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

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

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Local News

Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice

Join us for a walk under the stars, remembering loved ones whilst raising money for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice along our 5k or 10k route. The night will be full of exciting entertainment to guide you to the finish line.

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Starlight Hike

This year our magical Starlight Hike returns to the Shuttleworth Estate on Friday 20th September!

This event has something for everyone so gather your family and friends and join us for a night to remember.

Our hospice provides expert palliative care for people who are living with life-limiting conditions, as well as supporting their families.

We do this through our various services including inpatient care, day therapy, family support team and palliative care hub offering 24 hour palliative care support to local families.

Our expert care can only continue with people like you fundraising for us. Our services are free of charge, but it costs £140 a day for a Sue Ryder Nurse to give their expert and compassionate care to our patients. This is why events like Starlight Hike and people like you are vital in making sure our care can continue.

Become a shining star for the night!

If you would like to find out more information on how to take part, please do get in touch with the Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice fundraising team who would be more than happy to help you.

Call: 01767 642410 email: stjohnsfundraising@sueryder.org

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Electrician

www.hertsandbedselectrical.co.uk

Do you find it difficult to get someone to come and do a small job?

Fault finding/repairs Extra lights and sockets New fuse boards Electrical testing and certificates Qualified electrician  Fully insured Reliable service  Tidy work Free quote  Satisfaction guaranteed

Call Nigel on: 01462 506076 / 07941295883 Email: nigelrooney@hotmail.co.uk

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2 ANDY LEONARD Painter & Decorator Fully insured quality workmanship Interior & Exterior For a free, friendly, no obligation quotation

Please contact Andy on

07889 903283 Email: andythepainter5@hotmail.com

Visit our beautiful

AL Painter & Decorators QP.indd 1

Bathroom Showroom

09/02/2018 15:02

...With more than 50 displays of bathrooms, furniture & fittings Free in-house 3D design service Quality products from leading manufacturers Experienced staff offering impartial advice Free delivery within a 20 mile radius of our showroom

01438 725309

bathrooms@stevenageplumbing.co.uk www.stevenageplumbing.co.uk

Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS 70

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Motoring

The 10 best electric cars on sale today Each manufacturer is rushing their own electric car to market, and demand is increasing.

But which ones are best? We’ve put together some of the ideal all-electric cars currently on sale.

Hyundai Kona Electric - Capable of travelling up to 279 miles on a single charge, the new Kona Electric has one of the most impressive ranges of any new electric car available, and comes with funky styling and plenty of in-car technology too.

As a compact package, it’s just as well suited to urban driving as it is to longer distance motoring.

Jaguar I-Pace - The British firm has customers queuing up to buy its all-electric SUV, and it’s easy to see why – the I-Pace is both fast and a comfortable cruiser, plus has almost 300 miles of range. It’s not cheap at £64,495, but that’s good value compared with the Tesla Model X, its biggest rival.

Nissan Leaf - Nissan’s Leaf was one of the very first all-electric cars to become popular, and it has retained that popularity.

The Leaf still holds its own. It’ll crack 239 miles on a single charge, and is spacious and comfortable too.

BMW i3s - BMW has taken time to refine its i3 allelectric city car, ditching its petrol range extender thanks to better range. The i3s model gives the car a little added performance, and comes with a tuned stability system and a slightly more dynamic look.

Kia e-Niro - Journalists have praised the e-Niro crossover for being good to drive and offering a battery capacity that gives an excellent range.

Unfortunately, Kia hasn’t been able to source batteries quickly enough to meet demand, so wait times are about twelve months.

Hyundai Ioniq Electric - The Ioniq Electric is an appealing electric car that’s practical, good to drive and surprisingly quick. The interior feels a little on the cheap side, but it’s far from disappointing.

However, due to the same battery shortage as has hit Kia, wait times can be up to a year.

Audi E-tron - Audi’s E-Tron is its first all-electric model, bringing a premium look and feel as well as impressive electric technology and plenty of space and practicality. Audi claims it’ll do 248 miles on a single charge.

Renault Zoe - The Renault Zoe offers one of the cheapest entry points to EV ownership and is a great little supermini.

The big battery version gives 186 miles of range, so most inner-city commuters will only have to charge it once or twice a week. Prices start at just over £17,000 with the plug-in grant.

Tesla Model 3 - Tesla’s Model S, its saloon car, has been successful, but for many is too expensive.

The new Model 3 is a bit more affordable, but still capable of delivering plenty of range and high technology levels too.

Volkswagen e-Golf - The Volkswagen e-Golf is a safe bet for an electric vehicle purchase, with the build quality and dependability you’d expect from one of the UK’s best-selling models.

Its range of 144 miles is far from the best in the segment, but is perfectly acceptable for the typical commuter. With plug-in car grant applied, prices hover around the £30,000 mark.

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By James Baggott

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ROGERSONS

REMOVALS

Alan George Painter & Decorator Interior and Exterior Work Wallpapering and Coving Reliable and Local Specialist

Man with Van

Removals • Clearances • Deliveries Pick-Ups • Items disposed of Flat pack assembly Anything Considered Friendly and reliable at a cost you can afford

Tel: 01462 627074 Mob: 07867 531368

Speak to Matt • No job too big or small

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City & Guilds trained with 30 years experience Sole trader No VAT Free estimates Call Alan on 01582 454604 Mob:07760198256 or E-Mail: george-a6@sky.com

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August’s Puzzle Solutions and Winners Last Month’s Crossword Winner Mr P Baker from Stevenage Nathan Craig Competition Winner Mr J Clements from Potton

Easy

Hard

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The Villager Prize Crossword

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

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

Prize

£25

Across 1 Hairy and unkempt (6) 4 Detector (6) 9 Make comprehensible (7) 10 Vagabond (5) 11 Fear greatly (5) 12 Empowered (7) 13 Sections (11) 18 Replicating (7) 20 Ransack (5) 22 Presses (5) 23 Where plays are performed (7) 24 Required (6) 25 Remained (6) Down 1 Firm (6) 2 Round fleshy fruit (5) 3 Your parent’s mother (7) 5 Surplus (5) 6 Type of onion (7) 7 Fast running waterways (6) 8 Make inquiries (11) 14 Detonate (7) 15 Sincere (7) 16 Activity (6) 17 Rely upon (6) 19 Publication (5) 21 Not lean (5)

Name: Tel:



Address:

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Books

Book Review

By Kate Duggan

Accountants

Vox

by Christina Dalcher

In this dystopian tale, women are only allowed to speak 100 words a day. They’re also not allowed to read, have a job or, in fact, do very much at all other than look after their husband and children. But Dr Jean McClellan is given the chance to resume her research job and have the word limit lifted for both herself and her daughter, if she collaborates with the government.

A real page-turner of a book that will appeal to fans of The Handmaid’s Tale and The Power.

Tin Can Cook: 75 Simple Store-Cupboard Recipes

by Jack Monroe

Simple, wallet-friendly dishes that are delicious and nutritious? It seems too good to be true, but Jack Monroe seems to have succeeded.

Her latest book puts canned food at the heart of every dish. Recipes include Rhubarb & Custard Pancakes, Sunshine Soup, Red Lentil and Mandarin Curry, and Creamy Crabby Pasta. Most only contain a handful of ingredients and only take a few minutes to prepare, using ingredients you can pick up from the local shop.

Appliance & Electrical Repairs Appliance and Electrical Repairs All makes of washing machines, dishwashers, cookers, hobs and hoods repaired, serviced and sold.

No call out charges on accepted quotes Member of DASA 30 years 35 years local work experience Used as expert on BBC Watchdog

01525 753547 or 07836 242122 G.J. WATKINSON

Somebody I Used to Know: A Memoir

by Wendy Mitchell

Wendy Mitchell was diagnosed with early-onset dementia at the age of 58. In her memoir, she talks about the reasons she sought a diagnosis, how she came to terms with it and the changes she’s made to her life.

Somebody I Used to Know gives us an eye-opening insight into an illness that’s all too often whispered about behind closed doors.

Perhaps surprisingly, the memoir is also brimming with optimism, hope and humour.

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Classifieds Carpentry and Joinery

Property Maintenance

Tim Jordon

R. CHAPMAN

Home & Garden Services

Carpentry and Joinery

Patio’s Driveways Fencing Brickwork Painting & Decorating Tiling 20 Years Experience - No Job Too Small!

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

01462 850575 or 07950 311881

Locksmith Services

Property Maintenance

Dave Mortby Plastering, Decorating & Refurbishment

Free Estimates Given

07722 128189

Email: David.mortby@live.co.uk

Plastering Services

Removals

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

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MUSCLE & MOTOR

Jumbo van with up to 3 men.

Helpful, efficient and friendly service for all your moving, carrying, and domestic disposal needs, including house and garage clearance.

Call Richard on: 01767 317387 or 07968 787496 Email: muscleandmotor@gmail.com www.muscleandmotor.co.uk

Roofing

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USEFUL NUMBERS

VILLAGER The

and Town

Life

Alcoholics Anonymous...................... 0845 769 7555 Al-Anon Family Groups..................... 0800 008 6811 Anglian Water................................... 08457 145 145 Bedford Hospital................................01234 355122 Lister Hospital....................................01438 314333 Addenbrooks Hospital........................01223 245151 Benefits for people with Disabilities.... 0800 882 200 Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue.............01234 351081 Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue............01438 729041 Carers Line........................................ 0808 808 7777 ChildLine..................................................0800 1111 Citizens Advice.................................. 0344 245 1292

Bringing Local Business to Local People Your local full colour A5 monthly magazine delivered free of charge to 1000s of homes and businesses in your local area.

The Villager and Town Life is dedicated to promoting local businesses, charities, community groups and everything else in your local area.

Cocaine Anonymous................................0800 689 4732 Crimestoppers..................................... 0800 555 111 Cruse Bereavement Care................... 0333 252 9152 Floodline........................................... 0845 988 1188 Frank-Drug Advisory........................... 0800 776 600 National Debt Line............................ 0808 808 4000 Gas Emergency.................................... 0800 111 999 NHS Direct................................................0845 4647 National Rail Enquiries..................... 03457 48 49 50 Non Emergency Police Line.................................101 NSPCC............................................... 0808 800 5000 Relate................................................. 0845 48 49 50 RSPCA Cruelty Line............................ 0300 1234 999 Samaritans...................................................116 123 Tax Credit Helpline............................ 0345 300 3900 Victim Support................................. 0845 30 30 900

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