Henlow Sept 2020 by Villager Mag

VILLAGER The

Issue 142 - September 2020

and Town

Life

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

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Inside this issue... Autumn Show

A Brief History of Time...................................................................... 4 Back to School....................................................................................... 8 Ramsgate - Hidden Gem on the East Kent Coast....................10 Football Needs Footfall.................................................................... 12 Going for Gold.....................................................................................14 Spectacular Sunsets........................................................................... 17 Drinks: Time for a Beer......................................................................18 Wordsearch..........................................................................................20 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe...................................................... 23 Children’s Page.....................................................................................24 Beauty Boosts......................................................................................26 Does it matter what I wear?...........................................................30 The Importance of Posture.............................................................32 Together We Run - EAAA................................................................ 34 A Lack of Interest................................................................................37

How to ask for a loan to be repaid.............................................. 39 Autumn Show...................................................................................... 43 Puppy Problems? Wood Green are here to help....................44 Dazzling Dahlias..................................................................................48 R.A.T.S. Rehoming Appeal................................................................. 51 Midnight Visitors................................................................................ 52 Second-Hand, Not Second Best................................................... 55 Back to School Tech for the New Normal................................ 57 Dolphins: The smart, sociable heroes of the sea....................58 Puzzle Page...........................................................................................60 Driving Climate Change................................................................... 62 Fun Quiz................................................................................................. 62 Short Story - Bertie’s Brambles.....................................................66 Insert Coin to Play!............................................................................68 Baldock Rotaru Club..........................................................................71 Villager Prize Crossword.................................................................. 74 Books of Self-Discovery................................................................... 77

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History

By Catherine Rose

A Brief History of Time For thousands of years human beings have used devices invented to measure the passage of time. As the sun moved across the sky, people were able to measure the day’s passing with obelisks and sundials, by monitoring their shadows. Some of the earliest clocks were stone obelisks built by the ancient Egyptians in 3500 BC. Sundials, which show the height of the sun using a shadow-casting rod called a gnomon attached to a marked plate, feature widely across many ancient cultures including in India. The world’s biggest sundial dates from the sixteenth century and can still be visited at Jantar Mantar in Jaipur. Sundials remained in popular use until the nineteenth century. During Shakespeare’s time, people even carried pocket sundials, referred to by the bard in his play As You Like It:“…he drew a dial from his poke [bag].” However, measuring time using the sun is problematic, as it only works during daylight hours when it is not cloudy. To overcome this and

determine time at night, another method used graduated candles whose measured burn could also calculate passing hours. In around 1400 BC the ancient Greeks built water clocks, but they were probably invented in ancient Egypt. Known as clepsydrae, they basically consisted of two containers, one placed higher than the other. Water would drip slowly from the top container to the bottom, while markers inside the lower container showed how much time had elapsed. Subsequent developments of the water clock resulted in increasingly complex use of floats and gears that moved a hand on a face, anticipating the modern clock. From the seventh century the Chinese not only built huge water clocks but also more accurate timepieces, based on similar principles that employed mercury. In the eleventh century an Arab engineer named Ibn Khalaf Al-Muradi built a water clock with a sophisticated gear mechanism,

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which almost certainly influenced the subsequent invention of the mechanical clock. Another popular and iconic timepiece was the hourglass. Consisting of two blown glass bulbs joined by a narrow neck and commonly filled with sand, hourglasses work on a similar principle to the water clock. They were reasonably accurate and used to measure time at sea. Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan had eighteen hourglasses on each of his ships during a circumnavigation of the globe in 1522. Even today we still use the minute version to time the perfectly boiled egg! It was around the fourteenth century that the first mechanical clocks with gears and escapements were invented in Europe. The old English word for a clock was daegmael meaning ‘day measure’. It was at this time that the word ‘clock’ came into parlance, derived from the Latin word clocca meaning ‘bell’, as mechanical clocks were made to strike the hour rather than display time. Operated by weights, these clocks were usually large and heavy so tended to feature in church towers. The clock in Salisbury Cathedral is one of the oldest surviving examples of a working mechanical clock, built in 1386 out of hand-worked iron. In 1450 the coiled spring mechanism was invented, which heralded portable clocks and watches. The oldest pocket watch is the spherical Melanchthon Watch made in 1530. In 1656 Christiaan Huygens invented the first pendulum clock, which kept time more accurately than anything previously. It was found that the longer the pendulum, the greater the accuracy, which is how the Grandfather clock developed. Pendulum clocks remained the standard right up

until the invention of quartz clocks in 1927. Thomas Tompion is known as the Father of English Clockmaking. Born in Bedfordshire in 1639, the thatched cottage where he grew up can still be seen in the small village of Ickwell. The son of the village blacksmith, he was apprenticed to a clockmaker in London, eventually becoming renowned for his clock and watchmaking skills. His timepieces were so well made that many of them are still in operation and command very high prices. A favourite with royalty, two of his ‘year clocks’ still reside at Buckingham Palace. During the nineteenth century, industrialisation made it more important to keep track of time and the ownership of pocket watches expanded greatly. We tend to think of the wristwatch as being a relatively modern invention but in fact they have been around for a lot longer. It is recorded that a bracelet with a portable coiled spring timepiece was made for Queen Elizabeth I and given to her as a gift by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, in 1571. It was purportedly described at the time as an ‘armlet’ having: “…in the closing thearof a clocke, and in the forepart of the same a faire lozengie djamond without a foyle, hanging thearat a rounde juell fully garnished with dyamondes and a perle pendaunt.” However, any timepieces worn on the wrist were seen as no more than ladies’ jewellery, and the first purpose-built wristwatches for men were not produced until the early 1900s. Today, we have seen the advent of the digital watch, mechanisms that no longer need winding, and atomic clocks accurate to a second within 100 million years – more than the length of human timekeeping itself.

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Parenting

Back to School Many children are going back to school in September, some for the first time in months, and it’s natural for them to feel a bit anxious about starting a new school year. Prepare your child If your child hasn’t gone back to school yet, find out what will be different compared to before the pandemic. Explain to your child what to expect. Younger children may benefit from acting out some things at home, such as keeping their distance when queueing. Clinical psychologist Dr Emma Millar recommends asking if the school can “take pictures or videos of the changes so your child knows what to expect, as that will aid the transition process.” Talk to your child It’s important children know they can talk to you about their concerns. Some like to have your full attention while others prefer it when they don’t need to make eye contact, such as when you’re driving or cooking. Recognise that you can’t ‘solve’ their concerns, but you can discuss coping strategies. If your child doesn’t want to talk, try reading together and talking about how the character feels in different situations. Encourage excitement Don’t forget to talk about the positives of returning to school, such as seeing friends and playtime. Dr Emma Millar says, “Discuss what they’re excited about. Children pick up on how we’re feeling, so if you remain calm and positive about them returning back to school, then that will really help them to feel reassured.”

Get back into a routine Most children prefer some level of routine. Your child may have been going to bed later recently, not showering as often and having more screen time. Help them adjust to a more structured routine over a couple of weeks. Make sure they get enough sleep Work towards returning children to an earlier bedtime, including at weekends. Children need more sleep than adults – six to thirteen year olds can need up to eleven hours of sleep a night. Mindfulness and meditation Mindfulness and meditation can help children and adults to feel calmer and more in control. Older children might benefit from Headspace’s guided meditations. For younger children, try the ‘Sitting Still Like a Frog’ book and CD by Eline Snel. More information ‘Helping your Child with Fears and Worries’ by Cathy Creswell and Lucy Willetts is worth reading. The book is packed with practical advice on helping children to deal with fears, worries and anxiety, and isn’t written like a medical textbook! The following websites have useful resources: • www.camhs-resources.co.uk • www.youngminds.org.uk/blog/supporting-a-childreturning-to-school-after-lockdown Extra support All children feel anxious and worried sometimes. However, up to 15% of children experience anxiety disorders, which can stop them enjoying day-to-day life and lead to more long-term issues. So don’t be afraid to ask for help: your child’s school may be able to offer advice, or your GP may be able to refer them for extra support. By Kate Duggan

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Travel

Ramsgate

By Solange Hando

A Hidden Gem on the East Kent Coast Tucked away on Thanet, an ‘Isle’ only by name, Ramsgate has everything you would expect from a traditional seaside resort (without the crowds) and a few surprises to keep you on your toes. First, Ramsgate claims the only Royal Harbour in the country, a title granted by George IV when he sailed across the Channel in 1821. The memorial obelisk is still there but on a bright sunny day you’ll be blown away by one of the largest marinas on the south coast. Rigging tinkles in the breeze, yachts in all shapes and sizes glisten along the pontoons and you can book a harbour cruise or a fishing trip, sail to see the wind farm or the seal colony on the Goodwind Sands, or just wander along the quay when the last fishermen bring in the catch. Peep into the tiny sailor’s chapel dug in the cliff, below Jacob’s ladder, then head for the listed Clock House, home to the Maritime Museum, and enjoy the vibrant café culture all around, ice cream, cool drinks, fish and chips and more. The jetty is right there, a lovely place for fresh air and stunning views, harbour on one side, vast golden sands on the other dotted with parasols, buckets and spades, where little Victoria, the future Queen, spent many happy summers. When the tide is right, you could walk all the way to Broadstairs, the next resort, along the promenade or on the sand. Up on the cliffs, the town is well worth exploring

for its Georgian and Regency buildings and superb esplanades looking out to sea. On the beach side, the Marina Esplanade leads to the bandstand (a musical treat in summer), the historic War Tunnels and George VI Memorial Park, which is part of the Viking Coastal Trail. Take a break in the restored Italianate Glasshouse and look out for the mysterious parakeets squawking in the trees, having escaped, some say, from an Indian ship. In the other direction, red-bricked Victorian arches climb above the harbour to the Royal Esplanade, lush lawns, rose garden, boating lake and a ‘wild’ sandy beach meandering below white cliffs. Any more surprises? Indeed: a fair walk or a quick drive and as you reach Pegwell Bay, would you expect a Viking ship glowing in the summer light? ‘Hugin’ sailed from Denmark in 1949, a life-sized replica manned by fifty-three men whose only instrument was a sextant, a heroic deed even today, marking 1,500 years since the invasion and the betrothal of the Viking princess to the King of Kent. Continue along the coastal trail and you will find a country park laced in cycling and walking trails, an enticing spot to watch the birds (hide provided) and gaze at myriad species of flowering plants, including wild orchids. Meanwhile a tiny spark of history beckons just inland, a lonely Celtic cross dedicated to St Augustine who landed long ago on this glorious stretch of the Sunrise Coast.

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Cloudy2Clear, A Local Service With A Smile. I think we can all agree that the sooner we see the back of 2020 and this dreadful corona virus the better. That said, there are also some heart warming positives that we can take out of this situation. It has often been said that we can only really get to know one another and realise what is truly important in times of crisis. I think few would argue that in this case what has proven to be important is local community spirit. When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Stephen Moon it became clear that these values have been held dear for a number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of

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

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Special Report

Football Needs Footfall Just like every other aspect of the economy, football has suffered a significant loss of revenue during the coronavirus pandemic. For anyone in love with the beautiful game, two questions arise: firstly, how will football clubs survive amid social distancing and other measures? Secondly, what can supporters do to keep local teams alive? The Impact of Coronavirus So Far The impact of the lockdown on football included a premature end to League One and League Two seasons. English Premier League and Championship games did manage to resume in early June behind closed doors, which allowed the leagues to progress to a natural conclusion. However, from lost match-day revenues through to cancelled contracts for ancillary services e.g. advertising and sponsorship, all clubs face a cash-flow squeeze. The big clubs are generally more financially secure anyway and did manage to recover some revenue from television rights at the end of last season. The story is very different for the lower league and nonleague teams, which rely on supporter attendance for the bulk of their income. The Future of Football in the New Season Even if, by the time you read this article, the government guidance has changed to allow football attendance, social-distancing rules will reduce the number of people allowed in to watch the game live. Lower league teams have smaller turnouts anyway, meaning the financial impact will continue well into the new season and perhaps in the years to come.

Helping Your Local Team The biggest risk to most smaller teams during this pandemic is the inability to balance their books. Dwindling income from match-day revenues and ticket sales have left many clubs with deficits that they will struggle to clear. More than ever, the support of their fans is essential for survival. • Buy a season ticket even if you know you are unlikely to make it to every game. • Many clubs have turned to fundraising in an effort to stay afloat so if you can see an opportunity to both support and spread the word about their plans, make every effort to do so. • Sales of replica kits and badged wear – from scarfs to bags – really make a difference both in club’s revenues and in keeping the club’s name known in your local area. Staying Safe at Football Matches There are going to be social-distancing measures in place – that’s a given. But every football lover has a role to play to ensure football matches remain safe in order to keep stadiums open. Yes, it’s uncomfortable to wear a mask – but not half as uncomfortable as catching the virus. Yes, your team can’t hear you shouting or cheering as clearly, but ironically it’s that very activity that is ideal for sending the virus out beyond the usual two metres. Support for your local team means more today than ever before. Whether it’s through fundraising, buying team merchandise or a season ticket, there is something every football fan can do to help.

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Jewellery

Going for Gold

By Charlotte Taylor

Remodelling sentimental jewellery Have you got some old gold jewellery, which has sentimental value but which you never wear? It sits in your jewellery box, among the costume jewellery you wear all the time, and whenever you see it you feel a pang of guilt. Gold has always been seen as a good investment as it holds its value especially in uncertain economic times. This means that many of us have some random inheritance pieces in our jewellery box. It doesn’t feel right to sell it so what can you do? Have you ever thought about creating new jewellery from old jewellery? It might have been a thoughtful but misplaced gift, or inherited from an elderly relative with dubious taste, or it might be pretty but looks dated, and isn’t your style. Jewellery has one purpose…to adorn, and if you’re not wearing it, you’re preventing it from fulfilling that purpose. So why not use your old jewellery to create something you love to wear? Find a jeweller – Do your research. Ask friends and family who they use. If you see someone wearing a particularly beautiful piece, compliment them on it and ask if they had it made and by whom. People who wear gorgeous jewellery usually know of a jeweller, even if their current piece was not purchased from them, and they love to share that information, because who doesn’t love to be complimented on their exquisite taste!

Design Meeting – The jeweller will set up a meeting to assess your heirloom jewellery. They’ll look at the quality of the gold and any gems. The gems don’t have to be real. Some quality paste gems are stunning in their own right and may just need a more modern setting to transform them. Some jewellery processes such as ‘casting’ are not suitable for paste gems or softer gems such as emeralds. Sketching & Designs – Make sure you take in some pictures of jewellery that you love, or architecture you like, or pebbles and plants from the natural world. The jeweller will want to see what you like so they can bring your ideas and inspiration to life on paper. Be sure to be clear about your budget, you’ll feel much happier if you are. They usually send 3-5 sketches of their ideas and then you get to discuss them and decide on any revisions. Jewellers generally won’t copy someone else’s work exactly; they will want to create a piece for you. Some jewellers work on their designs in pencil and ink, others on a 3D CAD system. Find a jeweller who works in a way you feel comfortable with. Collection – At collection, the jeweller will take you through caring for your jewellery and advice on maintenance. Some offer an annual clean and service. Also ask about insurance value. Then enjoy wearing your jewellery, full of memories, yet uniquely yours.

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Photography

Spectacular Sunsets Autumn is the best time of year for beautiful sunsets. Have you ever tried to capture one and been disappointed with the result? Sunsets can be devilishly tricky to capture well, but we have a few tips. Choose the time and place – If you’re serious about sunsets make a note of places where they are particularly good then head there before the sunset to give you time to set your camera up. There are websites which tell you what time the sun will set on a particular day. Try www.timeanddate.com/sun/ Foreground is important – The best sunset photos tend to have something of interest in the foreground, generally silhouetted. This provides a focal point. Look for an attractive tree, or a wind farm, and even pylons can look impressive in front of a sunset. Patience is also important – Sunset actually goes on for quite a long time. As the sun dips beneath the horizon it can produce some spectacular shots, but afterwards, the colours of the sky can become even more rich and beautiful, so hang around. So is a tripod! The best shots are often longer exposures, so they will look shaky unless you secure your camera to a tripod. Ignore ‘the rule of thirds’ – The sunset is the star so place your horizon really low down in the shot. This fills the image with colour. Remember reflections - If you are near water take full advantage of doubling the impact of your sunset. In this instance try placing the horizon at exactly halfway or shoot only the reflections. Experiment and have fun.

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Food & Drink

Drinks: Time for a Beer Wild Card Brewery was established during 2012. Today, this brewery can boast much deserved recognition, having award-winning productions amongst their beers. Delivering throughout the UK, Wild Card ales can also be located at numerous bars, pubs, restaurants, supermarkets and retail outlets.

TABLE BEER (2.7% vol) was developed for beer drinkers who require or prefer an ale with a low ABV. This production does not compromise on taste, with its tropical fruit flavours pleasing the tastebuds. PALE ALE (4.3% vol) utilises Citra, Ekuanot and Cascade hops to great advantage. Hugely popular with pale ale lovers, I found this easy-drinking beer, refreshing. RASPBERRY GOSE (4.6% vol) has been created with the sour beers of Northern Germany in mind. It is fruity, having raspberry added towards the end of the fermentation process. Again refreshing, this is classed as a sour, salted, wheat beer and regularly chosen by ‘devotees’ of this type of ale. For IPA drinkers there are several excellent selections available from the Wild Card Brewery. UNITE TRIBUTE IPA (5.4% vol) is brewed with Citra and Simcoe hops and dedicated to Ada Lovelace, an English mathematician and writer. This beer delights the nasal senses and entices the mouth’s pleasures to follow. NEIPA (5.4% vol), INDIA PALE ALE (5.5%vol) and ELLA (5.7% vol) are three further IPA beers that are enjoyed, constantly. Good aromas are evident and tropical fruits hold the interest for the mouthfeel, continuing through to the finish. For a higher ABV and still with IPA productions, CASHMERE (5.8% vol) has Mosaic, Citra, Ella, plus Cashmere hops and IPA (6.1% vol), which is classed as West Coast, are great for nose appeal, with the latter using Citra and Simcoe hops. I would describe both of these smooth productions as being big on flavour – to the last, very enjoyable, drop! These are just a selection from the most impressive ranges of beers produced by the Wild Card Brewery Company. Brewery tours and experiences are offered too and have become increasingly popular. Information and advice is always available, along with party hire, arrangements and attractive merchandise. Wild Card Brewery, Lockwood Way, Walthamstow, London, E17 5RB. www.wildcardbrewery.co.uk E-mail: info@wildcardbrewery.co.uk Tel: 44 (0) 208 935 5560

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

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Food & Drink

Summer king prawn, squid and chilli spaghetti

Serves 4 people

Of course this pasta can be eaten all year round, but for me it screams summer. Holidays spent on the coasts of southern Europe, enjoying exactly this kind of sunshine dish, usually accompanied by a crisp glass of white wine. Extremely quick to put together and so colourful on the plate, this is one of my absolute favourites. Ingredients 450g spaghetti 1 small onion, finely chopped 3 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped 2 red chillis, finely sliced 1 bag frozen raw king prawns, shelled 4 fresh squid (or frozen), sliced into rings 1 glass white wine 10-12 small cherry tomatoes, quartered Large handful parsley, finely chopped Olive oil, salt and pepper

1. Cook the pasta in a large bowl of well salted water as per the packet instructions. 2. Meanwhile, heat a glug of oil in a large pan and gently fry off the onions for 3-4 minutes. 3. Chuck in the garlic and chilli and cook for a further couple of minutes. 4. Stir through the prawns and the squid and cook for a minute. The prawns will start to turn pink. 5. Add in the wine and the tomatoes and let the sauce simmer fairly vigorously for a couple of minutes to reduce the wine. 6. Add in the chopped parsley and season to taste. 7. Drain the pasta and stir it well into the sauce. Leave it sit for a couple of minutes so that the pasta takes on all the flavours of the sauce. 8. Serve immediately (with parmesan if, like me, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind going against tradition and always eat parmesan with your pastas, even seafood ones!)

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Beauty

Beauty Boosts By Kate Duggan

It won’t be long until the weather starts cooling down, but in the meantime we’re still in for a few hot, sticky days. If you’re struggling with the heat, a face mist can help, but they’re often little more than water with a splash of artificial perfume. I tend to use an organic rosewater (£12, www.akamuti.co.uk) instead. If you decant it into an old spray bottle, you can use rosewater as a face mist, toner or cooling spritz. As well as helping to beat hot weather (or in my case hot flushes), rosewater is great for your skin – boosting moisture and leaving skin feeling calmer and softer. It also smells gorgeous. I’m planning to carry on using it throughout autumn and winter to counteract the drying effects of central heating. Hand sanitisers are certainly handy, but they can also be very drying – leading to sore, cracked skin. Green People’s new Deep Cleaning Hand Foam (£11.50, www.greenpeople.co.uk) is a good alternative. It’s free from alcohol and sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), so it won’t strip the skin of its natural oils. It’s even gentle enough for sensitive skin. It’s over 90% organic, and the antibacterial and antimicrobial properties mainly come from essential oils, including tea tree. And, even better, it’s a dualpurpose foam. You can use it as a hand sanitiser when you’re out and about, and a foaming hand wash back at home. The benefits of retinol are widely known. It’s one of the best ingredients for tackling fine lines and sun damage, boosting collagen

production and generally making skin look healthier and fresher. If you’re new to using retinol, Murad’s Retinol Youth Renewal products are a great place to start. As with everything from this brand, you know you’re getting skincare that’s the result of months (if not years) of research and has been scientifically proven to work. The eye cream has only been out for a few months but is already getting rave reviews. It feels lovely to apply and it’s safe to say that I agree with the 93% of testers who’ve seen a reduction in lines and wrinkles. It’s £70 at www.murad.co.uk. Looking for a more wallet-friendly retinol? Dermaworks’ Retinol Night Serum (www.dermaworks.co.uk) is incredibly good value at just £14.95. It’s 2.5% retinol (most high-street retinol serums are only 1%) and it’s packed with other ingredients that your skin will love, including moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid. It’s also vegan, 100% natural and cruelty-free. Over time, it’ll help to repair cells and improve skin texture. For best results, you’ll want to use it for a few months, although you should still see some benefits pretty quickly. My skin feels noticeably softer the morning after using it. And, unlike a lot of other serums I’ve tried, this one doesn’t feel greasy or sticky.

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Local News

Local Oxygen Is Changing Lives! For many people, the faster healing, reduced pain and energy boosts from Oxygen Therapy are life changing - literally. Oxygen Therapy can help people with cancer, fibromyalgia, ME, neurological conditions and leg or feet ulcers. During social distancing, increased energy and pain reduction are even more vital, helping with independence and mobility. One client said: “Oxygen helps make my MS life easier, gives me energy... I feel relief to the pains in my legs. This really helps me get through each week. My memory is a lot sharper. I would notice a big difference if I could not come.” Another person has Oxygen Therapy to help with her deal with the profound fatigue that she experiences due to ME. “I did lots of research and discovered the power of Oxygen Treatment.” she explains. “It’s amazing how helpful it can be. The day after my treatment I feel so much better. My head’s clearer, I’m walking faster and I can think more clearly.” Mark Boscher is a Trustee of the Herts MS Therapy Centre – the Letchworth-based charity providing Oxygen Therapy. He says: “Many people with long term conditions have felt the benefit of something we all take for granted: oxygen.” Oxygen Therapy is supported by fully trained volunteers. Could you spare any time to help? Do you know someone who’d love to add volunteering to their CV or DofE? To find out about Oxygen Therapy or volunteering, please email oxygen@hmstc.net – we’d love to give you more details.

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House of Colour

Does it matter what you wear? Why I do care… As part of a style consultation one of the questions in the personality quiz we ask is whether you are interested or not interested in clothing/shopping. This might seem an odd question as you must surely be, to be in the room in the first place? Well, not entirely. You may hate clothes shopping, have no desire to wander about shops at all but you still want to look and feel good. It still matters to us, whether that’s because we have a role that means we are under the spotlight and want to look right or because for our own sense of wellbeing we want to feel good in what we wear. I have always cared, always been interested in shopping and clothing and fashion. My parents have always believed in dressing smartly to demonstrate that you care about yourself and the work you do. It’s a sign of appreciation to a host that you have dressed for the occasion, marking the effort that they too have made in their hospitality. Thus clothing is and has been a signifier to others. We may not like that view, not subscribe to it and yet it might be hard for us to iron out the way we judge others internally based on what they’re wearing. We can’t really help ourselves. My driver has always been how clothes made me feel. I have always liked to think that I looked my best, although on many occasions struggled to understand whether that really was the case. I’ve sat uncomfortably in offices, pulled at clothes, left things that I thought were lovely sitting in a wardrobe for ever thinking that one day I would find the perfect occasion to pull them out. I have saved lots of things ‘for best’, which never came, only to realise years later that they were now never going to be used.

I’ve been to parties feeling incredibly self-conscious and unable to fully enjoy the occasion feeling uncomfortable in my chosen outfit. How I’ve winced at photographs… The money wasted, the time lost, the anxiety created. It’s incredible the effect clothing can have on us, yet when we shop it can all be lost on ‘that’ll do’. We’re overwhelmed, unsure, limited on time and lack clarity as to what is right, then we’re making snap decisions just to get it done. Soon we have a wardrobe of clothes that give us a slight (or even severe) sinking feeling. My own revelation was to understand the why. Why, though I loved the tweed jacket on lots of people it wasn’t ‘doing it’ for me when I put it on. Oh the joy to know that I needn’t worry about it any longer, a classic jacket was never going to work. Of course not. I can walk away, enjoy looking at it on others. There are other things out there for me and they definitely make me feel good, whatever the occasion. I know what will do and what won’t – so could you.

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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Health

By Catherine Rose

The Importance of Posture Posture is the way we carry and position our body throughout our daily physical activities. Poor posture can lead to a variety of muscular-skeletal issues including chronic pain and joint degeneration, so being aware of best posture is important. If you have had bad posture for a long time (and most of us do) it will feel very alien at first when you try to correct it, as the body wants to keep doing what it is used to. However, perseverance, with regular exercise to strengthen muscle tone, will result in your posture improving without you having to constantly think about it. For a good seated posture your knees should be slightly lower than your hips, so you need to position your chair height accordingly. If you work at a computer, ensure that the screen is at a comfortable eye level and you are not having to hunch forward or bend your neck. Sit with your feet flat on the floor facing forwards, a hip-width apart, and straighten your back so that your tailbone ‘sticks out’ rather than your back being rounded. Your spine should form a gentle ‘S’ curve. Finally, make a conscious effort to lower your shoulders, slightly pushing your shoulder blades back and down at the same time. You may need to do this more than once as we all tend to naturally carry our shoulders in a raised, rounded position, which over time can lead to muscle tightness, tension headaches and back or neck pain. Exercise and core stability are important when

maintaining good posture. Muscles weaken and muscle fibres shorten without regular movement and exercise, leading to potential joint and ligament issues. Stretching exercises two or three times a week will help relieve tension, increase circulation and maintain muscle condition. Yoga and Pilates are two forms of exercise that are excellent for improving tone, flexibility and posture. There are classes available for all levels. Ergonomic furniture and aids can help with best posture, for example a lumbar support cushion. Always ensure that your furniture supports you. A squashy chair that is too low and difficult to get out of may not be the best thing for your posture. Likewise, your mattress should properly support your back when you sleep. To check this, notice if your spine is straight when you lie on your side. If not, it may be time to change your mattress. Your pillow should also cradle your neck so that it is in alignment with the spine. Bad posture not only physically impacts on our body, it has also been proven to have a detrimental psychological effect. Charles Darwin first scientifically documented the link between movement and emotion in his studies of humans and animals. If you have concerns about your posture and suffer from chronic pain, visit your GP who can refer you to the appropriate health professional, such as an osteopath, physiotherapist or chiropractor.

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I am proud to provide Reflexology treatments at Helen’s Reflexology & Holistic Therapies in Henlow, Bedfordshire to support clients, I have a great passion for Holistic Treatments. Fully Qualifiled and insured with FHT. • Reflexology Cancer care therapy • Reflexology Reiki Bliss • Pre-Conception & Fertility Reflexology - First Treatment • Reflexology • Maternity & Post Natal Reflexology • Reiki Treatment • Indian Head Massage

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Local News

Air ambulance call on Bedfordshire to help run 2,000 miles in September Together We Run is a new fundraising challenge from East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA), encouraging the people of Bedfordshire to pledge miles towards a collective 2,000 mile target. EAAA normally organises several mass participation challenge events throughout the year, raising hundreds of thousands of pounds to help keep its yellow helicopters flying and saving lives. These events cannot go ahead this year, so the charity is asking its supporters to take part in Together We Run instead, a virtual fundraising challenge from 14 – 20 September, to run (or walk) a combined 2,000 miles, wherever and whenever suits them. Celebrate 20 years together A 2,000 mile target has been chosen as EAAA was established in September 2000, twenty years ago. EAAA would like to thank all of their supporters over the last 20 years which has enabled them to help more than 17,000 local people when they needed emergency care. EAAA does not receive regular government funding and relies on the generosity and kindness of local people to save lives. Signing up to take part in Together We Run is a simple way to help celebrate this milestone for the charity – and the region - at a time when we can’t physically come together. Participants can walk or run as much or as little as they like, and are encouraged to submit their activity using exercise tracking app, Strava. Join a Team and see who will be crowned the winners? To add an extra element of fun to this challenge, there will also be four Together We Run teams, headed up by members of the EAAA crew. Deputy Medical Director Doctor Pam Chrispin, Consultant Doctor Neil Berry, Consultant Doctor Drew Welch and Doctor Joanna Stevens. Participants will be randomly allocated to one of these teams. Team points will be awarded not just on the number of miles completed per team, but also for every pound raised to help keep the EAAA crews airborne and saving lives. Team Captain, Deputy Medical Director, Dr Pam Chrispin said: “If you take part in Together We Run, you could be in my team! I’ve been a doctor with EAAA for 12 years and just love everything about this charity, especially the way that it puts its patients at the centre of everything it does. “It’s really simple. We can’t fly without community support and donations, and we’re incredibly lucky to have been here for 20 years already. We’re really excited

Dr Pam Chrispin of EAAA is ready to lead her team to victory in the new Together We Run virtual fundraising challenge.

to be organising our first virtual challenge event to ensure that our fundraising can carry on safely this year, so I encourage everyone to take part – even if it’s just walking one or two miles. Your support will help to keep our yellow helicopters flying and saving lives. “I’ll be aiming to run three miles. I used to run a lot but age and dodgy hips curtailed that some years ago, so three miles is going to be painful for me. If I can do that, anyone can play their part so please commit even if it’s just one mile. Every mile earns a pile!” Events Manager, Leanne Kershaw, added: “We really wanted to be able to find a way to bring people together this year, especially as we are about to reach our 20th anniversary milestone, and we know we simply wouldn’t be here without the fantastic community which keeps us flying. So, please join us in September to collectively walk or run 2,000 miles to celebrate saving lives together for the last twenty years.” To take part, tickets range from £5 to £15. Additional fundraising is encouraged. For more information and to sign up, go to www.eaaa.org.uk/werun

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Neville Funerals Advert August 2019.pdf 1 16/10/2019 13:47:00

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

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

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

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Finance

A Lack of Interest With the Bank of England’s base rate at a historic low of 0.1%, you might think it couldn’t possibly go any lower. The economic challenge of COVID-19 could change that, with speculation that the rate could actually drop below zero. It brings to mind a topsy-turvy world of banks paying people to borrow money and savings shrinking away, but what would actually happen? Between the 2007-8 financial crash and the economic uncertainty of Brexit, the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee has had plenty of reason to use low rates to ease economic concerns. The idea is to deter saving and promote consumer spending by making borrowing cheaper. The Bank of England confirmed in May that it is considering using the rate cut tool again and having negative rates for the first time ever in this country. It’s a highly unusual tactic but has been used in the Nordic region and Japan in the past decade. The effects are still an unknown quantity, however. With mortgages, many tracker rates have a minimum floor so homeowners wouldn’t get negative rates. In countries which have had a negative rate, a few lenders have dropped the variable interest rate charged to borrowers below zero. Usually in those cases, the customer would continue to make the same monthly payment but more of it would go toward paying off the capital rather than the interest, so eventually the mortgage would be paid off earlier. Risk-free savings accounts are already paying miserly

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By John Lister

interest thanks to the low base rate, so there’s unlikely to be much change there. A reduction to zero interest on such accounts is possible, at which point they’d mainly be a way of balancing risk. Credit cards and personal loans shouldn’t see much difference as there’s already a lot of variation among different lenders and customers, so the base rate has less influence. The ‘standard’ rate on a card may drop a little, but that shouldn’t make much difference to people who make savvy use of introductory offers and balance transfers. Perhaps the biggest question mark is the effect on current accounts, which could be a game of chicken. Most high street banks theoretically have the power to apply negative rates. However, it’s questionable if any would really want the bad publicity of being the first bank to start ‘taking people’s money’. The more likely options are that the major banks all do so at the same time, or that they instead introduce fixed monthly fees to use a bank account. Overall then, if the base rate did go below zero, it’s unlikely banks would pass on the effects to customers in a way that undermined the basic principles of saving and borrowing and produced ‘illogical’ effects. Instead it’s more likely banks would simply be a bit more willing to lend more money to more people and to be a bit less enthusiastic about trying to attract new savers. John Lister (www.johnlisterwriting.com) is a freelance writer based in Bristol, specialising in technology and personal finance.

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By Tammy Adams

Money Talks

How to ask for a loan to be repaid Neither a borrower nor a lender be! There’s a lot of truth in that old saying. Have you ever loaned a friend or family member some money and then waited and waited for them to return it, feeling increasingly resentful? If unresolved the situation can fester to the point at which the relationship breaks down for good. If a few months have passed since you lent someone some money, and they’ve not mentioned returning it yet what should you do? The lender sometimes worries it would be rude or inappropriate to ask for it back, or that they might jeopardise the friendship. If this is you then you ned to realise that your friend asked you for money in the first place; money, which you lent to them! So, worrying about asking for its return is not your problem; your problem is why you are anxious. Maybe that’s a red flag for this relationship whether or not the loan is eventually repaid. Be polite but clear - ‘When do you think you’ll be able to repay the money I loaned you?’ is fine. You don’t need to invent a whole convoluted back story about how you need the money to pay for pay for your kitten’s operation. If you feel you want to soften the blow, you could add, ‘...as I’m a little short of funds right now.’ Could they work it off? - If it’s less that you need actual cash and more the principle of the repayment you could find a way for them to repay in kind.

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Perhaps you need childcare, help moving house, or some clothing alterations done. Most people have some kind of talent or skill they can provide as repayment. Bartering – Does your friend have something you would like which is equivalent value to the cash you loaned them? This is a way for your friend to settle up without having to give you cash. Payment plan – Consider a flexible payment plan so they can pay you back in instalments over a few months. If you aren’t sure they will honour a verbal agreement, get something down on paper. Ask someone to remind them - If you’re nervous about asking, perhaps consider why this person is your friend! But you could ask their partner, a mutual friend, or a family member to remind them. They may be able to drop hints on your behalf or tackle them directly about taking advantage of your friendship. Consider a credit card repayment - Times have changed. You don’t need to be a business with an Electronic Funds Transfer console and a merchant account in order to be paid by credit card. They can use PayPal or a similar service to send you the money. You can even prompt them to send money to you with the ‘request money’ feature. Lending money to friends and family is a minefield so consider very carefully whether you want to do it. If you do, make sure you talk about the when and how of repayment before you part with the cash.

Discover the Benefits of

AT BRUNSWICK GATE

Introducing Parkland Living at Brunswick Gate, Lower Stondon The Parkland Collection at Brunswick Gate, in Lower Stondon, oﬀers a beautiful range of four and ﬁve-bedroom homes, which showcase the very best of open plan family living. This development is perfect for growing families, including pets, as well as professionals, downsizers and has also been popular with buyers looking to escape London and settle down in this beautiful location. Many of the properties at Brunswick Gate feature expansive views overlooking open green areas and the parkland whilst idyllic countryside walks are on homeowners’ doorsteps, promoting a healthy lifestyle and encouraging car free weekends. As part of the Mulberry Way initiative, Brunswick Gate also meets modern demands by providing electric car charging points, available for guest parking, as well as automated smart parcel delivery boxes, where parcels are guaranteed to be safe and sound.

The peaceful village of Lower Stondon benefits from the harmony of rural living, whilst providing the option to explore the amenities of nearby Hitchin and Letchworth Garden City. Lower Stondon itself features Mount Pleasant Golf Club, a village hall and a thriving high street including restaurants, as well as a play park and primary school for those with young families. With yoga, Tai Chi and Scouts also on offer, the village community really does offer something for everyone. Hitchin’s offering ranges from salons to chic coffee shops and the glorious Hitchin Lavender Farm. Further afield, Bedford and Luton are a short drive away via the A6 whilst the A1 and M1 are just 15 and 25 minutes away respectively, providing quick access to major national transport networks. Commuters will also find themselves at an advantage here: trains from Hitchin railway station reach London St. Pancras Intl. in just over half an hour, whilst Cambridge and Peterborough are both under 45 minutes away by rail.

Parkland Living Benefits

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A warm and friendly neighbourhood

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For more information call 0333 121 1040 or visit mulberryhomes.co.uk Holwellbury, Bedford Road, Lower Stondon, Bedfordshire, SG16 6GH

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The Parkland Collection

E IN LOWER STONDON

Moving Made Easy at Brunswick Gate Moving is made easy at Brunswick Gate with home moving schemes such as Help to Buy and Part Exchange available with the added bonus of the recently announced Stamp Duty holiday with no Stamp Duty to pay on all homes in England up to the cost of £500,000, until 31st March 2020.

The properties currently available at Brunswick Gate are the popular four-bedroom Sherbourne style home, priced from just £579,950, the executive four-bedroom Harrington style home, priced from just £639,950, the beautiful ﬁve-bedroom Bradgate style home priced from £749,950 and the stunning ﬁve-bedroom Watermead style home priced from £719,950.

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Open Thursday to Monday, 10am - 5pm (Sundays, 4pm) Strictly by Appointment Only

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Gardening

By Pippa Greenwood

Autumn Show Now that autumn is upon us, leaves, shrubs and climbers grab our attention with their change of colours, transforming to scarlets, reds and golds. So why not include some in your garden? Climbing plants with spectacular autumn colour include Parthenocissus quniquefolia, or Virginia creeper, a sizeable climber that can be used to clothe walls without a support system. In autumn the leaves are numerous shades of scarlet, orange and red. For less extensive covering, consider Parthenocissus henryana. Its divided leaves are a dark green to bronzy colour with pretty silvery white veins that turn to rich red in autumn. Another autumn climber, Vitis coignetiae, grows rapidly and has huge heart-shaped leaves with splendid scarlet and crimson colours come the autumn. It can be grown through large trees and over sturdier supports, and the colours often improve in poor soil! Amelanchier lamarckii (snowy mespilus or serviceberry) is a large shrub covered with lovely whitish blossom in spring. The emerging leaves change from a coppery colour to bright green, but in autumn the entire shrub almost appears to be on fire. The small-scale blueberry is an acid-loving, boggysoil-needing plant that turns into a miniature ball of fire once it takes on its autumn colour, and two or more plants will provide a crop of delicious fruit. Fothergilla major or Witch Alder is a smallish to medium-sized shrub whose bare stems will be covered with scented creamy-white spiky flower clusters early in the year. The foliage changes from

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pale green to shades of yellow and orange in the autumn. It needs a lime-free or acidic soil and does not do so well in a tub. Cotinus or smoke bush also has fantastic autumn colours, and is a shrub with attractively rounded leaves in shades of green, pinkish-orange or purple. Greenwood The fluffy seed heads look just By likePippa little clouds or plumes of smoke. For smaller gardens it’s hard to beat one of the Japanese maples with their stunning divided leaves turning rich purples, reds, oranges and yellows, depending on which one you have planted. They do well in large tubs and are perfect for a sheltered back yard or patio, and look great in a bed or border. Making the Best of Autumn Colour Potential • To help choose plants for autumn colour, why not visit local garden centres or an arboretum? If possible, buy autumn colour plants now so you can see the precise shades that the various plants have to offer. • Check the ultimate height and spread of trees or shrubs you’re considering – there’s no use planting something that will outgrow its space in a couple of years’ time. • Planting at this time of year works well but wait for better conditions if your garden soil is very wet. In dry soil plants still need watering well, and the soil around the roots must be kept moist once the plants are in the ground. Visit Pippa’s website (www.pippagreenwood.com) to book Pippa for a gardening talk at your gardening club or as an after-dinner speaker.

Local News

Puppy problems? Wood Green are here to help

Puppies welcomed into new homes during lockdown have missed key learning experiences and will soon be reaching adolescence, a time when they typically display more challenging behaviours. Wood Green, The Animals Charity has services to support puppy owners in need of advice, behavioural support and if they are no longer able to care for their pet. Wood Green’s Pet Support team has begun to see an increase in enquiries about puppies like Trinity the Lurcher, who was purchased at the beginning of lockdown. The new owners were led to believe that she was eight weeks old, but the vet confirmed that she was only six weeks old and too young to be separated from her mother. Trinity’s owners described her as sweet and well-behaved most of the time, but she began mouthing which caused the children in the home to be afraid of her. When advice from a paid behaviourist didn’t help, Trinity’s owners contacted Wood Green in July and made the hard decision to hand her over. They said: “We decided to bring Trinity to Wood Green because we realised that simply selling her may result in her being resold again due to her mouthing issues and, in the long term, she may end up at a rescue centre with even more behavioural problems. “We believe that Wood Green can provide the training she needs and have the experience to find her the best home. Giving Trinity away was a heartbreaking experience, but all we want is for her to be healthy and happy.”

Specialists at Wood Green are available to pet owners facing difficulty with a puppy, or any other pet. The team has decades of experience in dog behaviour and training, offering free one-to-one behavioural support and a range of training classes for a nominal fee. With a dramatic increase in puppy scams over the past few months, the charity can also advise anyone looking to get a new pet and guide them through the process. Sue Ketland, Dog Behaviour & Training Specialist at Wood Green, said: “We understand that puppies can be hard work at the best of times, and even more so given the current circumstances. Social distancing has made it more difficult to socialise puppies with other dogs and people, face-to-face training classes haven’t been possible and with everyone spending more time at home, puppies may struggle to cope when left alone. It’s not too late to resolve any issues, like Trinity’s puppy mouthing, and we are here for every pet owner.” Life can be unpredictable and some puppy owners may no longer be able to look after their pets. Whatever the reason, be it work or financial pressures, health, or simply not having enough time to dedicate to a pet, Wood Green can help. Their friendly team will listen, advise and, if someone needs to hand over their pet, will take the animal into their care to find them a loving new home. Talk to Wood Green’s team on 0300 303 9333 or visit www.woodgreen.org.uk

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THE GARDEN ROBIN Complete Garden Design & Landscape Service Driveways, Patios and Paving Porcelain & Natural Stone Paving Wood and Composite Decking Pond Construction & Water Features Artificial Grass, Fencing and Screening Irrigation Systems Installed

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Garden View

By Rachael Leverton

Dazzling Dahlias Over the past few years, I’ve fallen in love with dahlias for their ability to provide autumn colour. I think Dahlias are like the glamorous friend who arrives late to the party, fresh and full of life, outshining all the other guests who are a bit tired and past their best...or maybe that’s just me being fanciful. Either way the vibrant colours, tactile textures and stunning petal formations make the Dahlia queen of the September garden for me. The dahlia originates from Mexico and there are 30 species and around 20,000 cultivars! Don’t let its exotic past fool you; it hails from high mountain regions so is happy in cool, wet, and windy conditions. It doesn’t matter what size your garden is there is a dahlia for you, from dwarf varieties to giants. There is even one variety (Imperialis) that can reach 6m (20 feet) in the wild in its native South America. If your garden is on the exposed side, or you live in the north then look for the pompom varieties as the colourful globes are very hardy, standing up to the worst of the British weather. Dahlia bulbs are comprised of tubers. In order to sprout the tuber must have an ‘eye’. If you live in a very cold area, you can dig up the tubers at the end of the season and plant them out again the following year. My garden is quite sheltered, so I simply cut them down and mulch them. I learned the hard way that mulched dahlias survive and thrive much better than unmulched plants. Dahlia tubers are hungry

beasts and don’t take kindly to being undernourished. The first year I planted them I didn’t mulch and the second year the flowers were sparse and undersized. On the advice of a neighbour I fed them, mulched them, and watered them through the hot season, and they returned in full vigour the following year. Dahlias come in the most amazing array of colours. ‘Lubega Power Yellow-Orange’ sounds like a toilet cleaner but is in fact a gloriously tropical dwarf bedding dahlia which produces masses of double flowers well into autumn if you deadhead it regularly. At 30cm you can plant it at the front of the border or in window boxes to brighten the dullest of days. Dahlia ‘Cornel Brons’ produces wonderful round copper-coloured architectural flowers. They are longlasting and make spectacular cut flowers. They look good in the middle of a border because they grow to 90cm. For gardeners who prefer a more subtle or unusual colour palette: Dahlia ‘Cafe aux Lait produces enormous exquisite blooms in a soft apricot-pink colour, which fade to vintage cream. It’s the perfect dahlia for creating a focal point toward the back of the border as it grows to 120cm. Dahlia ‘Creme de Cassis’ has stunning two-tone petals on water lily-shaped flowers. It grows to 90cm so is good for the middle of a border and also looks fabulous in a big pot.

Happy Gardening!

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Pets

Rehoming Appeal

Tia

This mature little lady is Tia who is looking for a new loving home. She is neutered, microchipped and her vaccinations are up to date. For the last few months, Tia’s elderly owner has been in hospital and has now moved into permanent residential care and can no longer look after her. She has been used to a quiet, calm home previously and has not lived with other cats, dogs or children. A quiet new home where she is the only pet and without young children would be preferable for Tia. She is a very sweet natured, affectionate girl who likes people and plenty of attention. She is long haired, enjoys being brushed and will make a wonderful companion for someone. Tia really deserves to find her forever home, so if you would like to find out more about her please contact Liz on 01767 681157. 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.

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Pets

Midnight Visitors I have yet to name my midnight visitor, but I feel very fortunate to have him. Or her. Most nights I see him scuttling across the decking, as though he were on a secret mission. My sweet little hedgehog is of course in search of insects and grubs. But in the stillness of the night I cannot help but create this alter ego. Where has he come from? Why has he chosen my garden? How long will he stay? I did some research in order to find out. Facts About Hedgehogs Between April and November, hedgehogs visit peoples gardens in search of food, as they need to accumulate fat in Autumn, ready for their hibernation in early winter. They can travel up to a staggering 3 miles in one evening as they forage for things like worms, berries, insects, caterpillars, slugs and beetles. Even though hedgehogs are nocturnal creatures, they have been known to venture out during the day – especially after it has rained. Hedgehogs are solitary creatures and will commence this lifestyle having only spent between 4 and 7 weeks with their mother. Interestingly, the hedgehog has not always been called a hedgehog. They used to be called urchins, which then led to the naming of sea urchins. Baby hedgehogs are called hoglets. How To Care For Hedgehogs Most of us love to have tidy gardens, but this isn’t always an ideal environment for a hedgehog. They enjoy creating homes in piles of leaves and compost heaps. They are very resourceful creatures. For this reason it is important to check any wood piles you have been building. Similarly, when using forks,

spades, mowers and strimmers take care that you have checked the specific areas of the garden, as hedgehog maybe taking refuge or hibernating in them. You could make or buy a hedgehog house and feeding station. Ponds are great ways of attracting wildlife into your garden. Hedgehogs will drink from them, but have been known to fall in. Although they can swim, you must make sure there is an easy way out for the hedgehogs so they don’t get stuck and drown. A gently sloping edge or ramp perhaps, with some pebbles and rocks. Do’s And Don’ts Don’t be tempted to leave a saucer of milk outside for your little prickly friend. Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant and would much prefer water. Do leave out dog/cat food if you wish to supplement the hedgehogs diet. Don’t use slug pellets in the garden as they will harm or kill hedgehogs. Do ensure that hedgehogs can get in and out of your garden. A square hole that is anything between 10-15cm is an adequate size. If you can’t create this in your fencing, a tunnel could be dug going under it. Get together with your neighbours and create a hedgehog highway! If you need to contact our Branch (North Bedfordshire) for any reason we can be reached by the details below, or for an animal welfare issue or emergency, contact 0300 1234 999. Lines are open 7 days a week 24/7. Email: info@rspcabedsnorth.org.uk Tel: 01234 266965 / 01234 930304

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CMY

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Second Hand

Second-Hand, Not Second Best There has never been a better time to buy second hand for your home. During lockdown lots of people indulged in some major decluttering and many lovely items have ended up on eBay, Facebook, and similar sites, not to mention charity shops and vintage stores. Nowadays we can buy anything we like new online or in department stores. So why purchase anything second-hand? Well, the problem with everyone shopping in the same stores is that everyone’s home begins to look a bit like identikit furnishing or ‘home-design-by-numbers’. Then there’s the issue of landfill. Buying second-hand means you’re not contributing to a ‘wasteful’ society. Finally, second-hand means you get to choose something different, quirky, and unique to you. Take paintings. It’s easy to pop into IKEA and buy a nice printed canvas but buying an original vintage oil painting is significantly more worth it. Most people think ‘Rembrandt’ or ‘Monet’ if you mention oil paintings but there are many lovely affordable original works of art or vintage prints on offer, and who knows, you might even happen upon an undiscovered old master! Antiques rugs are another good purchase and can set the tone of an entire space. Look in antique markets for Oushaks and Serapis style rugs. They use higher-quality wool, have a softer texture and blend with modern or antique furniture. They also tend to appreciate in value with age. Look for quality craftmanship, no sun damage, and no smoke and pet odours. An older rug should be worn evenly. Leather club chairs will always be a good purchase. Look for original leather or one recovered with vintage leather. Distressed leather is lovely and adds character but avoid chairs

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with a lot of peeling or cracking, and (unless it is for decorative purposes only) check the support it offers! I break plates and cups with alarming regularity. So much so that I gave up on matching dinner services many years ago. Instead I buy pretty individual vintage pieces I like. The mix ‘n’ match look is eclectic but works for me and my family. Vintage doesn’t necessarily mean expensive, but if you are more careful than I am go for it. Look for patina, shape, and design to indicate whether an article is genuine. Mirrors are some of the best items to buy vintage or antique. There are a wide range of styles in good condition that can add a touch of history or character to a room. says Brown. An original mirror edged with silver or gold, even if it is distressed, is it’s so much more interesting than anything bought new. Old mirrors may have distortions or bubbles in the glass so are best placed where ‘decorative’ or ‘increasing light and space’ is more important than ‘functional mirror’! Buying second hand can be fun, let you express your individual personality, save money and the planet. What could be better? By Tracey Anderson

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Technology

Back to school tech for the new normal Technology has always been an important tool for schoolchildren and students, but it’s even more important now: during lockdown it became clear that children and teenagers with access to appropriate technology were better placed for remote learning than those without. Lockdown may be over, but if infection rates rise again then we could go back to ‘blended learning’ where some or all of the school week has to take place at home – and older children are expected to use technology for homework even when things are normal. And of course, technology isn’t just for studying. It’s also for having fun: video chatting with friends, playing games, bingeing on TV box sets and taking advantage of apps. And that means buying tech can be a challenge: what should you buy if you want something that’s useful for school or college work as well as leisure time? We think these products should be in your tech shopping list. Apple’s iPad has no real rivals, so if a tablet is your preferred option that’s the one to go for: even the cheapest one is incredibly powerful and flexible; however, it’s also eminently breakable, so consider a protective case and gadget insurance too. Apple may seem like the go-to choice for laptops too, but its Mac laptops are much more expensive than equally powerful Windows PCs. There are lots of really great Windows laptops for very good prices, and Microsoft’s Surface range is stylish as well as powerful. We’ve also given some thought to getting online when there isn’t good broadband available, and to something that’s as important as any PC’s processor or tablet’s tech: the backpack it’s going to be carried around in.

iPad Apple’s world-beating tablet is portable, powerful and has all the apps you need, and with the latest software update it’s also a real alternative to many laptops. It’s £379 from Apple.com.

Microsoft Surface Go 2 Many schools and colleges are based on Windows apps and require a Windows computer. Microsoft’s Surface Go runs the full version of Windows 10 and is desirable, portable and very affordable – it’s £399 from Microsoft.com.

Fjällräven Kånken Laptop Backpack A sturdy, padded backpack is important for carrying tablets or laptops around, and while the Fjällräven Kånken is one of the more expensive ones it’s beautifully made and very fashionable. Be careful, though: this brand is widely counterfeited so only buy from reputable retailers. It costs from £71 at Amazon.co.uk.

Huawei Mobile Wi-Fi dongle If your child can’t get a fast, reliable internet connection for studying this dongle connects to the 4G mobile phone network and creates a Wi-Fi network you can connect multiple devices to. It costs from £22 per month at three.co.uk.

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Logitech Crayon Logitech’s tablet stylus is as much fun as an Apple Pencil but it’s an awful lot cheaper. It’s great for drawing and note-taking, and it works on the current iPad and the iPad Pro. It’s £65 from Logitech.com.

Animal Tales

Dolphins: the smart, sociable heroes of the sea At the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies in Mississippi, USA, Kelly the Dolphin has been causing quite a splash. As part of the institute’s training programme, these much-loved marine mammals have been taught to pick up any litter that drops in their pool in order to swap it for a fish reward. The system was working well until one dolphin, known as Kelly, had other ideas. After finding a large piece of paper floating on the water, she hid it under a rock at the bottom of the pool instead of giving it to her trainer. She then tore off bits of the paper, getting a fish for each new piece she presented and thus maximising her fish quota. By hiding the paper in the first place, Kelly showed that she was able to delay gratification, and researchers have admitted that her scheme to split the paper into separate pieces shows quite sophisticated thinking on her part. The shell trick A recent study published in the scientific journal Current Biology shows just how resourceful dolphins can be. In Shark Bay, Western Australia, a whole pod of dolphins has been observed using empty shells as spoons. This activity, which has become known as ‘shelling’, involves a dolphin chasing a fish into a giant shell then trapping it by pushing its nose into the opening. After that, the dolphin will take the shell up to the surface and shake it to release the excess water. When the water has poured out of the shell, the dolphin tips the trapped fish into its open mouth.

By Kate McLelland 58

Dolphins in legend Our relationship with dolphins goes back as long as people have fished and travelled the seas. They were familiar in Greek and Roman art, where illustrations on coins, pottery and mosaic floors show leaping dolphins ridden by gods and demigods. The ancient Greeks believed them to be messengers of the sea god, Poseidon, and they were also sacred to the gods Aphrodite and Apollo. Killing a dolphin was considered a sacrilegious act. The Romans took their spiritual connection with dolphins one step further by imagining them to be guides who led the souls of the dead to the Islands of the Blessed. There have also been many stories that describe dolphins as rescuers of ships and drowning humans. A dolphin hero One such dolphin, nicknamed ‘Pelorus Jack,’ was famous for helping ships pass through the dangerous waters of Cook Strait, New Zealand, between 1888 and 1912. Despite the rocks and strong currents, no shipwrecks were ever recorded when Jack was present as a guide. Named after a nearby coastal area called Pelorus Sound, he was so important to shipping that he became the only individual sea creature to be protected by law in any country in the world. Mankind has long believed that dolphins are gifted with a rare intelligence and studies such as those carried out in the USA and Australia are helping us understand just how brainy they really are. No wonder we feel such a strong bond and sense of kinship with these lively, graceful and resourceful sea creatures.

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Codeword 1

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

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. 60

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Environment

Driving Climate Change Cycling and walking are much lauded as a way to reduce your climate impact. But whether due to distance or the load you are transporting, eventually the keys have to come out. So here are some tips to make the journey as efficient as possible. The first thing is to make the most of what you do when you are out. If you are driving to the supermarket, bundle the trip in with everything else you need to do. Go to the recycling centre, to the Post Office, to other shops and to refill with fuel all in the one trip out. It takes a bit of practice, but it’ll save you time and reduce your fuel bill too. Secondly, adopt a driving style that minimises your fuel usage. Don’t accelerate hard or brake sharply. And watch your speed: according to the AA, dropping from 80mph to 70mph could save you up to 25% in fuel (and of course save you the cost of a speeding ticket). Thirdly, lose some weight. Roof racks are terrible for your car’s aerodynamics and a boot full of stuff you ‘might’ need (but rarely do) is just adding to your fuel use. Unless you are doing a long journey, don’t top up the tank to more than half full. Finally, love thy neighbour! If your office has car sharing join up; if not, set up a scheme yourself.

1. In 2019, what became the first superhero film to receive a Best Picture Oscar nomination? 2. Also known as Doctor Eggman, Doctor Ivo Robotnik is the main villain in which video game series? 3. The thickest and strongest tendon in the human body is named after which hero from Greek mythology? 4. What line of toys is divided into the heroic Autobots and the evil Decepticons? 5. Since its revival in 2005, which Doctor Who villain has been played by Derek Jacobi, John Simm and Michelle Gomez? 6. Bonnie Tyler’s hit single Holding Out For A Hero was originally recorded for the soundtrack of which 1984 film? 1. Black Panther 2. Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Achilles 4. Transformers 5. The Master 6. Footloose 7. Svengali 8. Batman And Robin 9. King Edward 10. Bambi

Heroes and Villans

7. The name of which villain from George du Maurier’s 1894 novel Trilby is now used as a word for someone who has a controlling or mesmeric influence on another, especially for sinister purposes? 8. In an episode of Only Fools And Horses called Heroes And Villains, who did Del and Rodney dress up as to attend a party, but when their van broke down, had to run the rest of the way and ended up scaring off thieves? 9. Which popular type of potato was originally called Fellside Hero before being renamed in 1902 to coincide with a coronation? 10. Which film had an off-screen character known as “Man”, who was named by the American Film Institute as one of the greatest villains from the first 100 years of American cinema?

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James Cullip

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Short Story

Bertie’s Brambles

By Jackie Brewster

“Of course I’ll help you Uncle Bertie.” Alan scratched his head at the sight in front of him. “But why did you think it was a good idea to tackle the brambles in your birthday suit?” “Is it Naked Gardening Day?” Connie asked, leaning on the fence. “I’m not in my birthday suit.” Bertie winced as a delicate part of his anatomy came into contact with a thorn. “I’m wearing my bathers.” Bertie and Connie had been neighbours for decades, so when Alan saw three missed calls from Connie he rushed straight round to check on his uncle. He hadn’t expected to find Bertie semi-naked and trapped waist-deep in the brambles at the end of his garden. “Connie’s been nagging me to hack these back,” Bertie explained. “But the more I lopped them back the more they grew around me.” “Surely some protective clothing would have been a good idea?” Alan said. “Or any sort of clothing?” “Well you know how it is when you’re gardening,” Bertie explained. “One job leads to another, and the next thing you know you’re stuck in the brambles.” Alan shook his head in despair. “No one was supposed to find me like this anyway,” Bertie said defensively. “How was I to know Connie would come back from her sister’s early?” “It’s a good job I did,” Connie said. “Otherwise you could have been trapped there all afternoon.” “Have you got any secateurs?” Alan sighed, thinking of all the things he’d rather be doing on this

beautiful afternoon. “I’ll have to cut a path through to you.” “You can borrow mine, and here, wear these gardening gloves.” Connie passed a pair over the fence. “And have a look for ripe blackberries while you’re at it, I’ve a mind to make a crumble.” “I’ve been eating them while I’ve been standing here,” Bertie said. “They’re proper juicy.” “I’ll get Alan to pass you a Tupperware,” Connie said. “Hold on, I’ll go and get one.” “No one’s picking blackberries until we get Bertie out,” Alan said hotly, hacking away. “Stay put Bertie and don’t try to move.” “I’ve got cramp in my leg anyway,” Bertie complained, “so I’m not going anywhere.” “Alright, hold on, I’m nearly there.” Alan cursed under his breath as he dragged the brambles out of the way. Where he could he stamped them down under his boots. After ten unpleasant minutes he felt he’d made some progress. “Do you think you’ve got enough room to get out now?” “I’ll have a go,” Bertie said. “Connie, look away now if you’re squeamish.” “Why, Bertie? Are you horribly injured?” Connie clasped her hand over her mouth. “Should I fetch the Savlon?” “No ducky, just a couple of scratches, I’m tough as old boots,” Bertie said. “It’s just... you know I said I was wearing my bathing suit?” “Yes?” Connie asked. “Well,” Bertie blushed, “I lied.”

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Technology

Insert Coin to Play! Computer games started in the 1960s, played on $250,000 university mainframe computers. Then in 1972 Magnavox launched their affordable Odyssey console. The machine could only manage to display three dots and one line on your television screen, but this was ‘Pong’, and the gaming industry had been born. Fast forward a couple of years to 1977 and we get the launch of the truly game-changing (pun intended) console, the Atari Video Computer System (VCS). This iconic machine was heavily featured in the recent film Ready Player One, where the final test hinges around the very first computer game Easter egg (a hidden feature) in the game, Adventure. This console featured multicoloured graphics, sound, joystick control and a wide variety of games loaded into the system by plugging in interchangeable cartridges. It really did blow away the competition and placed Atari at the top of the console manufacturers. About the same time as this the home computer boom was taking off. Sinclair computers such as the ZX81 and Spectrum led the march into every child’s bedroom. These were real computers that not only played games but allowed you to delve into the brand-new world of computer programming. Previously you either had to be studying at University or able to build your own computer from scratch to have a go programming. Hundreds of software companies sprang up, powered by hordes of teenage bedroom programmers. Although computers were moving into businesses it was the gaming industry

that became the driving force behind the computer revolution. Home computers offered lots of extra features, but it was apparent that all people really want to do was play games. Computers had to sacrifice part of their power to provide these extra features. Games consoles didn’t. They could devote every byte and programme cycle to producing more colours, better sound, better graphics, and faster games. When Nintendo launched their Nintendo Entertainment System in 1983, they signalled the demise of the home computer boom. The NES was a dedicated gaming machine. It was also backed by a massive catalogue of fantastic games and sold around the globe. During the second half of the 1980s, Nintendo, Sega, and Atari and others vied for supremacy by launching a series of ever improving gaming consoles. The gaming industry grew fast and quickly caught up in size with both the music and film industries. Developing games and consoles was now the realm of large corporations such as Sony and Microsoft. Both of these companies entered the market in the 1990s and the rest is history. Today we’re really left with the big three. Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo, with their PlayStation, Xbox and Switch respectively. The gaming industry is now worth over $130 billion per year. More than the entire film industry and music industry put together. So, what’s next on the horizon? Who’s going to launch the next killer console? No doubt we’ll have the answer just in time for Christmas.

By Bob Grant www.bytesnbits.co.uk 68

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Local News

Baldock Rotary Club Donations 2019 – 2020 Baldock Rotary Club is pleased to report that through its fundraising activities between July 2019 and June 2020 it made charitable donations in excess of £26,000. Donations to International causes, the choice of which is considerable, were made to ShelterBox Trust, Lend with Care, Aquabox and the Kenya Trust. A donation was also made in response to a national Rotary appeal to assist with disaster resources in Mozambique and the club also made donations to Rotary’s own international charity Foundation for its ‘End Polio Now’ campaign. Donations to National causes were made to Age UK and Mercy Ships. Some of the notable donations made to local causes during the year included a number of our local schools and Baldock and Ashwell Scouts. President Paul Redwood commented that ‘Baldock Rotary Club is proud to have been able to make these substantial donations to such worthwhile charitable causes and would like to express its thanks for the support received from everyone in the community of Baldock, Stotfold, Ashwell and the surrounding villages’.

Baldock Rotary would like to attract new members, so if you are the type of person who is in a position to “give something back” to the Community, we would love to hear from you. As referenced above our activities and aims can be summarised as; Fundraising for local charities Support for the local Community Aid for international disasters Make new friends and have fun at our organised events

If you are interested in any aspect of what Rotary has to offer please contact us on our website, address below, or contact our Membership Secretary, Paul Redwood, tel. no. 07999 350990 e-mail paul49redwood@gmail.com www.baldockrotary.co.uk Facebook: Rotary in Baldock

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

01438 725309

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

Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS 76

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Books

Books of self-discovery By Kate Duggan The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse by Charlie Mackesy

These illustrations of conversations between a boy, a mole, a fox and a horse have been shared across the world. As the author says, the characters “are all different, like us, and each has their own weaknesses. I can see myself in all four of them, perhaps you can too.” Personally, I challenge anyone to read it and not feel at least a tiny bit lighter, more hopeful and more connected to those around us.

A Street Cat Named Bob By James Bowen

James had very little to give when he found an injured stray cat. A recovering drug-addict, James was living in sheltered accommodation and busking to earn enough money to eat. But it turned out that taking in the ginger cat, which he named Bob, would change James’ life. This true story is a few years old now, and you could just choose to watch the film adaptation. But if you want to curl up with a feel-good story full of hope, resilience and friendship, it won’t disappoint.

Staying Alive: real poems for unreal times by Neil Astley

The five hundred poems in this anthology cover a wide range of subjects, from depression and death to joy, personal quests and self-discoveries. As the synopsis says, these are poems that are “ﬁred by belief in the human and the spiritual at a time when much in the world feels unreal, inhuman and hollow.” You’ll rediscover poems you’ve likely heard many times before, such as Robert Frost’s ‘The Road Not Taken’, and also have your eyes opened to a whole new legion of poets.

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Classifieds Accountants

Plastering Services

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

Domestic Appliance Repairs

Plumbing and Heating

Domestic Appliance Repairs Guaranteed Repairs To:

Washing Machines • Tumble Dryers Electric Ovens/Cookers • Dishwashers No Call Out Charge!

JB Domestic

Tel: 01767 680621 or Mob: 07778 891490

Property Maintenance R. CHAPMAN

Home & Garden Services

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

01462 850575 or 07950 311881

Property Maintenance

Dave Mortby

Plastering and Decorating Block Paving and Patio Laying Pressure Washing Gutter Cleaning Free Estimates Given

07722 128189

Email: David.mortby@live.co.uk 78

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Henlow Sept 2020

Articles inside

Villager Prize Crossword

Insert Coin to Play

Dolphins: The smart, sociable heroes of the sea

Short Story - Bertie’s Brambles

Back to School Tech for the New Normal

Second-Hand, Not Second Best

Midnight Visitors

Puppy Problems? Wood Green are here to help

Autumn Show

A Lack of Interest

Dazzling Dahlias

How to ask for a loan to be repaid

Together We Run - EAAA

The Importance of Posture

Does it matter what I wear?

Wordsearch

Drinks: Time for a Beer

Going for Gold

A Brief History of Time

Spectacular Sunsets

Football Needs Footfall

Back to School

Beauty Boosts