Your FREE copy VILLAGER The and Town Life LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS 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, Holwell, Meppershall, Baldock, Stotfold, Arlesey & LetchworthIssue166- September 2022 Inside this issue Visit Cape Verde ECO Bathroom Energy Win £25 in our Prize Crossword
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To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 3 Inside this issue... Editorial - Solange Hando, Louise Addison, Trevor Langley, Jennie Billings, Martin Lewis, Caroline Knight, Alan Titchmarsh, RSPCA and Kate Duggan Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel 01767 nigel@villagermag.com261122 Front Cover Photography: alekseypatsyuk Design and Artwork: Design 9 - Tel 07762 969460 VillagerPublishersPublications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 nigel@villagermag.com261122www.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. Five reasons to visit Cape Verde .........................................4 Home Heating - is it time for a change? ......................... 8 Wines from Austria: A Good Choice 12 Going back to his roots! ...................................................... 14 Respite at home ...................................................................... 16 Transitional Weather Dressing 19 Autumn Beauty Trends: Revealed ................................... 22 Money on my mind .............................................................. 29 Free Money 30 Make September a sumptuous celebration .................32 Get your business off to a flying start this year Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £35.00 +VAT per month Green Fingers .......................................................................... 34 Bedfordshire Walking Festival........................................... 39 RSPCA - Have you ever considered fostering? 42 Arlesey Football Club........................................................... 45 Puzzle Page .............................................................................. 48 What’s On in September 50 Fire Fighters Charity.............................................................. 53 The Villager Prize Crossword ............................................. 58 Book Review: Taking the Plunge ...................................... 60 Useful Numbers ..................................................................... 63 Home Heating Time for a change? Make September a Sumptuous Celebration 32 8
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By Solange Hando
3. You could see turtles and whales Cape Verde is home to some of the most important loggerhead turtle nesting sites in the world. On the reasons to visit Verde this winter
Cape
With its endless white-sand beaches, stunning mountain scenery and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder Cape Verde is fast becoming one of the UK’s favourite spots for winter sun. Blessed with clear blue skies and temperatures in the high twenties, it’s the perfect destination to escape to during the UK’s colder months. This idyllic archipelago off the west coast of Africa may be known for its winning combination of sun, sea and sand, but with ten islands to explore there’s plenty of room for adventure too. From watching turtles hatch and hiking still-active volcanoes to a whole host of water sports, Cape Verde is packed with things to do should you need a break from the sunlounger. All just a six-hour flight away! to know Here are five reasons to consider Cape Verde when planning your next winter break – and what not to miss while you’re there.
2. There are adventures to be had Thought Cape Verde was just a fly-and-flop destination? The beaches may be beautiful, but the archipelago’s volcanic landscape, jaw-dropping mountain scenery and cities bursting with culture make the islands an adventurer’s playground too. Witness the lunar-like landscape of Fogo, also home to the country’s largest volcano, or immerse yourself in Santiago’s rugged peaks and lush green valleys. If you’re looking for a more cultural experience, you’ll love the island of São Vicente with its vibrant nightlife and buzzing live music scene. What’s more, the higher winds during November and March also make Cape Verde’s beaches a fantastic place to practice water sports, from windsurfing and kitesurfing to sailing. Wherever you go, you certainly won’t be short of things to do.
Five
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more?
1. The beaches are simply divine Powder-soft sand washed by turquoise sea, lined with swaying palm trees: the beaches in Cape Verde are pictures of pure paradise. Sal, the archipelago’s most popular island, is home to the gorgeous Santa Maria beach, where bustling bars, shops and restaurants offer a welcome break from the midday sun. Fancy a little more peace and quiet? On the island of Boa Vista, you’ll find unspoilt stretches of sand with barely a soul in sight to share them with. Praia de Chaves is a must-visit; this otherworldly beach boasts over 5km of sand and dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see.
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Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts island of Sal you can visit Project Diversity, a nonprofit organisation that protects the turtles’ nesting sites and helps hatchlings make their way to the sea. Visit between July and December for the best chance of witnessing the tiny turtles’ journey. The waters around Boa Vista are also a known breeding ground for humpback whales, giving you the chance to book a catamaran tour to see the mighty mammals for yourself. Sightings are possible from late February through to May. Keep an eye out for dolphins too! 4. The festival fever is alive and kicking Festival-lovers listen up. Winter in Cape Verde brings with it a whole host of fantastic festivals and celebrations. Mindelo’s annual Carnival on the island of São Vicente is by far the archipelago’s most famous event. Held each year on Shrove Tuesday, the carnival sees the small Cape Verdean town come alive with live music, colourful costumes and Takingdancing.its influence from Brazil’s Mardi Gras, the carnival officially lasts a week – but locals will tell you Carnival fever begins at the end of the previous year! The event was unfortunately cancelled in 2022, but should be back up and running in 2023.
5. It’s the perfect place to go island-hopping With each island offering its own unique flavour, why settle for just one? Imagine starting your holiday on the beach, followed by a couple of days spent walking through jaw-dropping mountain scenery, then the next morning you’re off to hike an active volcano. If that sounds exciting, you’ll love an islandhopping holiday around Cape Verde. With boat tours leaving daily, there’s ample opportunity to experience the true diversity of Cape Verde for yourself. Don’t miss out on the chance to visit the tiny island of Santo Antão – a wonderland for hikers. It’s by far the greenest island in the archipelago and is often considered the most scenic too.
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Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts8 Special Report
• Solar thermal panels: designed to be used alongside a regular gas or biomass boiler, solar thermal panels absorb heat from the sun, which is then transferred to a water tank for you to use as a hot water supply or for heating for your home.
Addison
With winter just around the corner, now is the time to think about your home’s heating system. Is your boiler running safely and efficiently while keeping running costs to a minimum? Home heating can contribute up to 60% of your home’s utility bills, so it’s important to ensure you are up to date with the best practices for maintaining and operating your central heating system. Out with the old The general rule is that once your boiler reaches around twenty years of service, you should replace it with a new unit. On average, your boiler will begin to operate less efficiently after ten to fifteen years, meaning it will need to work harder to heat your home, resulting in increased utility bills. Along with the potential cost of breakdowns and repairs for older boilers, it may be financially prudent to replace your boiler before it becomes a bigger expense. In with the new According to the plan for the UK to reach carbon net zero by 2050, the UK government has announced that new-build homes will not be allowed to install traditional gas boilers after 2025. This doesn’t mean you have to replace your existing gas boiler by this date, but you may wish to consider these heating alternatives, which will soon be considered the norm.
By Louise
Home heating Is it time for a change?
• Infrared heating panels: by emitting infrared energy into a room, the energy is absorbed directly into solid objects within three metres of the panel, causing them to warm up instantly. The infrared cannot warm air unfortunately, so the room will feel cold the moment it’s turned off.
• Heat pumps: using a similar technology to that which operates your fridge freezer (but in reverse), heat pumps will be one of the main ways new-build homes are heated after 2025, by utilising only air and a small amount of electricity.
• Biomass boilers: these work in the same way as a conventional gas boiler, but rather than gas, the fuel is a plant-based mixture of either wood, pellet or woodchip. This means it’s a much greener solution than conventional fossil fuels.
Working from home this winter?
Rather than electric portable heaters, which are really costly to run, an efficient central heating system set to around twenty degrees is still the recommended choice, even if you plan on heating just one room of the house. By using individual thermostats or radiator valves (or a smart thermostat) in each room, you can focus the heat towards the room you need to keep cosy, avoiding having to wear gloves and a woolly hat on your Zoom calls!
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Austria attracts many visitors, from global origins, constantly. From pretty alpine villages, through cities, boasting beautiful architecture, to stunning landscapes, with lakes, mountains, glaciers and so much more, there is something for everyone. Vienna is the capital city and home to Strauss, the renowned family that is famous for numerous musical scores, including much-loved and well-known waltzes. The Vienna Boys Choir has many followers, worldwide. Locating Mozart’s birthplace, cathedrals and a lot of other locations, including some of the world’s finest museums and art galleries, hold much interest. The high-quality wines, produced in Austria, many of which are multi award-winning, have become recognised for their distinctive, superb attributes. www. Grüneraustrianwine.comVeltlineris the most-planted grape variety in Austria. The grape is very capable of producing excellent white wines, from light productions to more concentrated and also sparkling delights. Zweigelt is Austria’s most-planted red wine grape variety. Zweigelt is utilised, to great advantage, to produce wines from dry to sweet in taste, including ice wines.
ARTNER boasts some of the finest wine growing locations in Carnuntum. This region is located in the eastern area of Austria. Artner wine estate specialises in Austrian grape varieties that include Zweigelt. Several grapes, for white wines, are grown too. The estate also grows other varietals, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. www. artner.co.at Importer: Lea & Sandeman Co Ltd.
WEINGUT ALLRAM is a major winery of the Kamptal, having well-known vineyards, including Heiligenstein, Gaisberg and Renner. Michaela and Erich Haas-Allram produce wines to an exceptional standard. Lorenz HaasAllram is manager of the cellar and ensures high-quality productions of this company’s wines. www.allram.at
WINZER KREMS has the reputation of being one of the most significant producers of estate bottled quality wines in Austria. Winzer Krems produces wines of excellence. Specialising in growing grapes of major Austrian varieties, the juices are extracted using state-of-the-art equipment and then fermented with controlled temperature. www. winzerkrems.at Importer: Ehrmanns Ltd. For all details of the full range of wines, from each company, please visit their respective websites. Enjoy! Langley
As always,
Trevor
Wines from Austria: A Good Choice
Food & Drink
Importer: Awin Barratt Siegel Wine Agencies.
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Ever-popular chef Ainsley Harriott, who first became a household name appearing on daytime TV shows such as Can’t Cook, Won’t Cook and Ready, Steady Cook, is back doing what he does best, cooking up a storm on his travels. Here we catch up with him… The staycation has never been more popular and in his latest TV series Ainsley Harriott and restaurant critic Grace Dent, two of Britain’s most-loved foodies, have whetted our appetites as they explored some of the best seaside holiday destinations – and dishes – the British Isles have to offer in Best of British by the Sea.
The Channel 4 series saw the pair take in the delights of South Devon, the Isle of Wight, Carmarthenshire, Aberdeenshire and Norwich and Great Yarmouth. “It’s the beautiful sea air,” said Ainsley when asked what is it about the seaside and food that makes such a great combination, adding: “Being al fresco gives you an amazing appetite, and the smell of salt – and especially if you’re near the boats with the actual smell of fish – just makes you want to have a bag of fish ’n’ chips in your hand.”
In 2020 Ainsley was honoured to be awarded an MBE for his services to broadcasting and the culinary arts. So where does his passion for food and cooking come from? “It definitely comes from my late mum Peppy, who taught me so much as I helped her in the kitchen. In a way, I suppose, she was passing down elements of her heritage. She didn’t only Celebrity
teach me about ingredients and recipes, she showed me how to cook with joy and, most importantly, with a lot of rhythm.”
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts14 Going back to his roots!
Channelproductions/4
Ainsley & Grace Dent: © blink
And talking rhythm, Ainsley has twice swapped his oven gloves for dancing shoes to appear on family-favourite show Strictly Come Dancing, first partnering with Natalie Lowe, then returning for a Christmas Special with a dance routine with Karen ButClifton.there is nothing that Ainsley loves more than taking a culinary voyage back to his roots to explore the dishes of the Caribbean. In his first new book for over a decade, Ainsley’s Caribbean Kitchen published in 2019, he went island hopping between Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Barbados, St Lucia, Dominica and Antigua. He went off on his travels again the following year with Ainsley’s Mediterranean Cookbook, and in 2021, when we were in the throes of the Covid-19 pandemic, Ainsley hit the spot with his newest cookbook, Ainsley’s Good Mood Food: Easy, comforting meals to lift your spirits. So, at 65, and back on our screens doing what he does best, what’s the secret of his success? “I don’t question it – I just keep doing what I’m doing! I’m very lucky to have a great job and I genuinely love meeting and working with really interesting people. Maybe that’s what audiences respond to – that what you’re seeing is not only fun, it’s also real.”
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‘I visit a lovely couple each week who are in their late 70’s. They were so grateful for any help as the husband has been very poorly for quite sometime and his wife has been caring for him by herself 24/7. At our first meeting they asked if it was possible for me to just sit with him to allow her to nip out to go food shopping and collect his medication. On my first visit, she thought her husband would most likely sleep whilst I was there and that she would be as quick as she could. I reassured her not to worry and to take her time as I would be there for a couple of hours. It turned out that he was almost as chatty as me and the time flew by! When she returned home she looked so pleased that he was still awake and he was smiling. Since my first visit, we have chatted about all sorts of things and anything that is troubling them. One thing he really wanted was for his wife to be able to get back to attending her Art class. Our manager had made them aware of the “Carers Sitting Voucher Scheme” and I helped them to apply. It’s humbling to know that such a small act like helping the clients fill in an application form can make such a huge difference to their lives. have always enjoyed clients, each one of them has been truly grateful for our charity - we really do form Everyonefriendships.’hasastory time chatting and listening, then
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visiting my
to tell, so If you like meeting new people and spending
we would love to hear from you. Call our friendly team on 01234 743063, or 07483 376077 or email: respiteathomevolunteers@aol.co.uk Respite at Home Volunteers make a real difference to families living with life limiting illnesses offering a FREE befriending service, which also allows carers some much needed time off each week!
I
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Transitional Weather Dressing
Lightweight Leather – faux, real and vintage, there are lots of leather options available and they’re a great additional layer as the weather cools. Try alternative colours, pine greens, creams, tans, rather than the traditional black to update the look.
Statement skirts into Autumn – could your lightweight skirt from the summer work with a boot, ankle or knee high and layered knit on the top half?
House of
Silk skirts work particularly well with knits but it applies to patterned too. Colour - Are there some colours that you bracket as only to be worn in cooler months? Try breaking these out into different areas of your wardrobe. Could a ‘summery’ t-shirt work with a knit or jacket from your ‘winter’ wardrobe? Take your clothes out of the wardrobe (particularly your ‘winter’ clothe) Colour and go through them. Could they be paired with any of your lighterweight options that you might be about to put away? The other good reason to do this is to cast a critical eye over what is needed in the forthcoming season and what needs to be recycled etc. If you need more help putting outfits together and making your wardrobe really work for you find your nearest stylist and get a wardrobe session. You have more options than you think!
New season stock well into place in the shops and the weather getting a little cooler or unpredictable means a style shift. With our variable weather and temperatures, we need pieces that will allow us to accommodate those changes. Here are some tips to get you well prepared. Waistcoats – knitted or in lightweight fabrics have been a theme and continue into the Autumn this season. They work well over lighterweight shirts, t-shirts and can be useful as an additional layer under jackets. Chunkier knitted options, the sleeveless turtleneck, will take you further into the cooler months, work well paired with midi dress and boots if you can work looser layering. They also work well under a tailored jacket for another smoother layered look. Silk layers – layering underneath can be more flexible than adding a cardigan, much loved though they are. A silk layer can be cool when it’s warm and warm when it’s cool. They are an absolute go to for me when the weather turns. Give yourself a variety of neckline options so that they don’t interfere with the neckline of your top. Patra Selections has a great range. Tailoring – more structure appearing in looks this season so use a tailored jacket over your lightweight knits. This continues the trend we’ve been seeing in the Spring looks too. Shorter and more waisted shapes are appearing in tailoring, great news for those who need a neater silhouette.
Article by Jennie Billings – House of Colour House of Colour has a network of stylists to help you update your look – find your nearest at houseofcolour.co.uk/find-a-stylist
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21To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 Long Covid has emerged as an ongoing condition whereby people who have contracted Covid-19 suffer the long term symptoms which sometimes persist for months. Some estimates suggest that 10% of Covid patients may still be experiencing symptoms more than three weeks after infection, and perhaps 60,000 people could be suffering from Long Covid symptoms after more than three months. (Source: NHS) The symptoms reported included chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, loss of sense of smell, and concentration difficulties. These patients are not only those recovering from the severe form of the acute disease (requiring hospitalisation in an intensive care unit), but also those who had mild and moderate disease. Oxygen Therapy for people with Long Covid… Our Centre in Letchworth has the only Oxygen Therapy chamber in Herts. People visit us from Hertfordshire...Bedfordshire,and Europe! As a registered charity we aim to help as many people as possible, welcoming Oxygen Therapy May Help Long Covid Symptoms Local News 01462 684 214 anyone with any long-term or age-related condition, including people with Long Covid. Oxygen Therapy helps many people to fight extreme fatigue and concentration difficulties – often referred to as ‘brain fog’. In addition, it helps to fight infection and can enable quicker healing. Our friendly, qualified team supervises your session and answers any queries you may have. We also explain how we provide Oxygen Therapy sessions as safely as possible. To book your session please call us on 01462 684214 or email oxygen@hmstc.net. (Or search ‘oxygen therapy herts’ to find out more about our Oxygen Therapy online.)
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts22 Autumn Beauty Trends: Revealed
From rustic to rugged, cosy to cool, autumn really is the season that offers so much, so get gorgeous over the next couple of months with these beautifying trends… we’ve even included a couple for the man in your life, too! Luscious hair Show off your shiny, luxurious hair this autumn as blow-dries make a comeback. The end of 2022 represents a brave new world of hair, so think big, think voluminous, think like you just stepped out of a salon. Boardroom beauty The sophisticated, clean beauty look is returning to the fore… whether it’s for the office or a social occasion. Think of matte skin, muted lips and perfectly groomed brows combining to create the perfect power look. Statement lip Following a gradual renaissance over the past couple of years, the statement lip is now well and truly back; so grab your lip liner and scarlet lipstick and prepare to pout your way through the autumn conversation.
Longest lashes It’s easy to look sallow and tired as the days grow shorter, which is why it’s a great idea to open up those peepers with a little perfectlycombinationmoreTheaccentuation.lashlookfocusesonaofapplied
mascara and individual fake lashes, each applied just at the corners in order to create that gorgeous Sixties-inspired look. Grunge goddess Finally, many of the looks to focus on this autumn and winter are all about high-gloss glamour, with grungy makeup offering something of a triumphant return. So sharpen that kohl eyeliner and revel in a rebel look which requires minimal skill whilst offering maximum impact.
Health & Beauty
To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 23 Mobile Foot Health Practitioner Lucy E. Hobbs-Morris BA (hons), MCFHP, MAFHP telephone: 01462 641113 mobile: 07795 030774 email: hobbs lucy@hotmail.com Some of the problems I can help you with Toenail Cutting Thick nails Ingrown nails Corns Callous Cracked Heels Fungal Nails Diabetic Footcare Fully registered and insured 12 years experience
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Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts28 Close to Baldock town centre in spacious surroundings this motel style Bed & Breakfast offers off road parking. • CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST • LARGE LUXURY EN-SUITE ROOMS • FREE WIFI INTERNET ACCESS • DIGITAL /SATELLITE TV WITH SPORT & FILMS • FRIDGE IN ROOM • PRIVATE LOCATION • CLOSE TO TRAIN STATION • MAJOR CREDIT CARDS TAKEN Tel: 07970 162753 Email: ami@amcofm.co.uk or sally@amcofm.co.uk North Road, Baldock, Hertfordshire SG7 5DN www.templarscrosslodge.co.ukCROSSTEMPLARSLODGE
broadband and connected industries continue to slash prices in what is a consumer-led price war, and the simple truth is many of us are still paying too much for our mobile phone contracts. So if you’re coughing more than about a tenner a month for your mobile phone contract – and by that I mean calls, texts and data, not the device itself – you’re probably in line to save some money. It all comes down to looking for the best-priced SIM for your needs, because once you find the right deal, it’s really very easy nowadays to grab your PAC code and switch networks. Now usually when I suggest switching to a different mobile provider, people come back with concern over signal strength for, say, Lebara Mobile or PlusNet or whoever it is offering the best deal on data. The reality though is that the communications network is run by four companies and four companies only – O2, EE, Vodafone and Three.
Every other provider is piggybacking off their signal, so, in effect, it’s the same signal. So by selecting one of the smaller companies all you’re doing is going with a virtual network, and everything else should remain the same. Obviously check before you sign up to see if 5G or tethering conditions are available, but beyond those things it’s the same line. It’s strange that mobile phones are such an integral part of our lives, yet many of us take for granted the competitiveness of the industry and don’t realise where we can be making savings.
In an era of prices rising inexplicably across the board in other elements of our life, the time is now to start working the equation back in our favour, so have a look at your bill, survey the competition and start the conversation!
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Money on my Mind
The Martin Lewis column He’s the UK’s leading money saving expert - a journalist and presenter who has kept millions of pounds in people’s pockets as well as lifting the lid on the threats and dangers we need to be aware of as consumers. In this month’s column, Martin Lewis looks at how, in a time of rising costs, we can make savings in other places. There’s so much attention at the moment on the cost of petrol, the cost of our utilities, the rise in inflation, and it all seems like bad news. Yet sometimes we are all guilty of obsessing over the negative elements whilst failing to recognise good opportunities elsewhere; and if you’re looking for one sector where costs, pretty much consistently over time, have always decreased, then reach into your pocket and take out your trusty mobile Telecommunications,phone.
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Apps and online - The newest option is to use specialist apps and online sites. These aren’t operated by banks or credit card providers, but rather by independent businesses. In principle, all you need to do is visit the site or app before being passed on to the retailer and you’ll then earn a percentage of any spending as cashback. However, make sure you check prices carefully and see if you could get it cheaper elsewhere, outweighing the rewards. Be particularly wary of any membership costs. Often such services are free or have a free tier, but they can have monthly fees that may come as a surprise and reduce the overall benefit. Loyalty cards - Finally, don’t forget about supermarket loyalty cards. They don’t pay cash but do offer discounts on future shops. These days, the best value often comes from taking advantage of tie-ups with other retailers and programs, though this does mean doing some research and keeping up to date with the latest policies.
Free money
Inflation continues to rise, and with it the gap between your outgoings and income shrinks. You can’t completely stop spending, but you can earn cash back when you spend. There’s a range of ways to do this, but you need to check the conditions carefully. Credit cards - The best-known option is a cashback credit card. This will give you a percentage of your spending back as money, usually sent to your bank account. You may get a fixed percentage on all spending, a percentage that depends how much you spend, or a varying percentage that depends exactly what you are spending on. Watch for any monthly fees and be sure these won’t wipe out the benefits. The key rule for using such cards is that you should only use them for purchases that you would have made anyway: don’t buy stuff just to boost your Thecashback.interest rates on cashback credit cards are often quite high, so make sure you pay the balance off in full every month, preferably by direct debit. And don’t get cash advances such as bank machine withdrawals as, again, the rates can be high. Bank accounts - Another option is to get a bank account that offers some form of cashback, often called a reward account. There’s often a small monthly fee, but if you are paying regular bills you can usually come out ahead. Check the conditions carefully though: some rewards accounts have a minimum amount that you must pay in each month.
For example, earlier this year anyone using the option to convert Sainsbury’s Nectar card points to Avios air miles effectively boosted their cashback by 25 per cent – though of course, that’s only worthwhile for people who planned to spend their air miles. Remember also that how much financial benefit you get from air miles can vary depending on the type of flight you book.
To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 31 A FREE WILL for Homeowners Protect your home and legacy for your children • Keep your hard-earned wealth within the family • Stop your home from being sold to pay for long term Care Fees. • Prevent the courts from making your financial and healthcare decisions. • If you already have a Will … Is it up to date? • Several thousand outdated wills are legally challenged every year. • Ensure your parents’ home and property is also protected. DON’T PUT IT OFF – Don’t let your home and money disappear, make sure your estate goes to your family… leaving “what you want” to “who you want”. CALL 01767 660250 or email info@willandestateplanning.com for more information or to book a free meeting with one of our Will and Estate Planners either in your own home or at our offices. Baystrait Ltd t/a Will & Estate Planning, Baystrait House, Station Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8AL
It’s not all over in September. Indeed, many people choose this month as their favourite when it comes to drama in the garden. If your outdoor space is looking past its best, this is an opportunity to add to your plant palette. After all, wise gardeners plant today if they believe in tomorrow. Looking good in September Top marks go to ornamental grasses as they are reaching their peak in terms of beauty. There’s a grass to suit just about every type of space and the effect at this time of year is stunning. Swathes of gently swaying grasses lighten the soul. Some measure just a few centimetres high whilst others tower to three metres and more. The seed heads can be pink, purple, cream and white. A few grasses look like lambs’ tails and several resemble giant plumes on a circus horse’s head. For something completely reliable in free-draining soil and a sunny position, try Anemanthele lessoniana, or pheasant’s tail grass. It’s a semievergreen mound of golden and green loveliness that is steaked with red at this time of year. Use some of the larger grasses, including Miscanthus, as specimen plants amongst your borders. They will add froth and glory that improves throughout the year. When most plants are fading, these grasses will be stealing the show with their clump-forming habit and spectacular autumn flowers. Contrast and drama Pay attention to foliage if you want to create some astonishing contrast. Acers, in particular, are now working their way to a crescendo. Their colour takes on a vibrancy that will improve over the next few weeks as the leaves turn gradually crimson, purple, bronze and brilliant yellow, according to variety.
sumptuous
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts32 Caroline Gardendesignideas.co.ukKnight: Gardening
The sunny flowers of rudbeckia ‘Goldsturm’ create a splash of yellow during September. This awardwinning beauty ensures that sunshine will stay in your garden right through to October and beyond. It works well with ornamental grasses and other daisy types including heleniums. The crimson red flower of helenium ‘Moerheim Beauty’ is one of the best. Asters, with their astonishing display of daisy-like purple, lilac and pink blooms, are often covered in bees and butterflies in September. They set the garden alight with vibrant colour just when you think the show is almost over. Asters are known as a symbol of love and wisdom – let’s all have some of these! September a celebration
Make
Make the most of ground cover plants such as heuchera, sometimes known as coral bells. There are red, yellow, lime green and orange-leafed varieties. Plant them in groups, next to others with contrasting foliage, to brighten up the autumn understorey. The same applies to heathers, with late-summer and autumn flowers in pinks, purples and white. Erica varieties like free-draining soil in light shade and they can look stunning when planted amongst rocks and boulders, or towards the front of borders. Calluna, or ling heathers, like full sun in acid soil, so there is a heather suitable for almost any location except full shade or bog. More shrubs and perennials for September
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Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts34 Gardening TheGreenFingersAlanTitchmarshcolumn He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist and all-round horticultural inspiration. This month, Alan Titchmarsh discusses putting early preparations in place for winter. So winter is coming! Okay, so it’s a way off yet, but getting our plans together early for what we want to see in our gardens in winter, is actually a really good idea, even if the whole discussion feels a little, well, ‘out of season’, you might say! The notion of the winter vegetable is one we all stand by – rough, rustic, wholesome and happy, they are the meal mainstays of a season in which we want to be inside, wrapped up warm, with the products of our labour in front of us. Think about kale, brussels sprouts, parsnips, and who can resist the Jerusalem artichoke? These are all easy to get into the group, simple to maintain, and will flourish as the year goes on, ready for picking just when the temperatures begin to drop sharply in November. You also need to start thinking about early spring vegetables – they’ll be longer in the ground but still working their magic through the winter months. In this case, definitely consider spinach, typically planted at the start of autumn, and carrots tooplanted in November and with a bit of protection, the Adelaide carrot flourishes across the colder months for an early-spring treat. You’ve also got leeks, winter salads, Lambs Lettuce, cress, mustard and tasty onions – all evidence that when the sun disappears, the work we can do in our gardens continues. Open six days a week Tel: 01438 311699 Mob: 07788 446635 Email: info@acs-aggregates.com Shangri-La Farm, Todds Green, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 2JE Monday – Friday 7.00am – 4.30pm Saturday 8.00am – 12.00pm www.acs-aggregates.com Collection & Delivery of Loose Aggregates Building Sand • Sharp Sand • Ballast • MOT Type 1 • 10 & 20mm shingle Top Soil • Granite Dust • Cements • Drainage • EASYjoint • Sleepers
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Have you ever thought about getting out into the countryside but feel it would better to go with others, or, are you are new to Bedfordshire and want to see what the county has to offer ? The Bedfordshire Walking Festival, could be just for you, with over 40 walks during the nine days the festival offers an opportunity not to be missed. Nine are in this part of the County starting on Sunday 11th with a morning 7 mile circular LangfordfromVillage Hall. Other circular morning walks include Willington/Moggerhanger, Three Mills and a nature reserve from Stotfold, Greensand Western Parkland from Everton, plus an afternoon four village circular from Roxton on Saturday 17th. If informative Heritage guided walks appeal to you there are two fascinating afternoon walks. The first on Monday 12th when doors are opened and curtains pulled back to reveal how Ladies, Leisure and Lakes have helped to shape Henlow. Entitled the “Three L’s of Henlow” and starts from St Mary’s Henlow at 1-30pm. This is followed on Wednesday with an equally fascinating walk on the Greensand Ridge examining the settlements and geology which forms the landscape to-day. Entitled “The other side of the ridge” and starts from Old Warden Church at 1-30pm. Just a little further away on Thursday 15th there is an opportunity to mix walking with river cruising to create a great day out for groups and
individuals as the festival has teamed up with the award winning John Bunyan Boat. A morning informative walk from Priory Marina to Great Barford is followed by an afternoon leisurely cruise back to Bedford. Flexibility is the key on this one because if the walk is too far for you there are options to join or leave at Willington and whatever you decide to do the cost of the trip is the same at just £20 per person. Booking necessary. www.johnbunyanboat.org.
10th to 18th September inclusive
Bedfordshire Walking Festival
Those who prefer to stride out and cover the miles taking all day will have to travel but their journeys will be worthwhile starting at Harrold Country Park on the first weekend with an Ouse Valley exploration of 12 miles on Saturday and a Village Meander of 18 miles on the Sunday. On Wednesday 14th join the Slow Ways linear walk from Bedford Bus Station to Riseley of 11 miles, and on Thursday a 16 mile circular gallop starts from Riseley and takes in the remoter parts of north Bedfordshire.
The highlight of the weekend of 17th and 18th is the challenge of the Greensand Ridge Path 40 miles, 19 miles on Saturday and 21 miles on Sunday. Its harder than it looks but well worth the We’veeffort.mentioned just a few and the great thing is almost all the walks are free and no booking Programmesrequired. are now available both in printed form and on the festival web site www.bedswalkfest.co.uk.
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If you are interested in the role of a foster carer, use our volunteer search on our national website to find opportunities near you. If there is nothing listed in your area, then it’s always worth checking with your nearest RSPCA branch or animal centre. We are always delighted to hear about people’s positive fostering experiences. So please do get in touch if you have a story you’d like to share. 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, please contact 0300 1234 999. Lines are open 7 days a week 24/7.
currently own one and you are able, you can foster two horses as company for each other. If you fit the criteria for an equine foster carer why not find out more and apply online. How can I get involved?
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Our foster carers aim to help rehabilitate the animals in their care. This then increases their chances of finding a forever home. Naturally, we try to rehome our animals as quickly as possible, but if they are involved in a prosecution case we could have them in our care for long periods. Some animals need one-to-one care or perhaps don’t cope well in an animal centre environment. This is where our team of fantastic foster carers comes in.
Pets
Being a foster carer is exceptionally rewarding. The RSPCA are always on the look out for new foster carers who can provide a safe, caring and loving environment for the cats and dogs that are rescued each year. Fostering an animal can help them recover from neglect, abuse, illness or injury - taking the first steps towards finding a new, loving forever home. It’s very fulfilling to know that you played a key part in helping a rescued animal recover and to then start a new life with a new family. Fostering also gives those who are unable to take in an animal long term, due to commitments and circumstance, with an alternative. Why do we need foster carers?
Have You ConsideredEverFostering?
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts When an animal is fostered space in our centres then become free, so that we can rescue more animals in desperate need. What does the role involve? You would be required to provide the care the animal needs; feeding, exercising, cleaning, socialising, giving medication and grooming. Essentially, there are two main avenues within fostering at the 1)RSPCA:Foster carers for animals ready to be rehomed. 2) Foster carers for case animals whilst the legal proceedings take Someplace.of the animals that we take in have are not used to the care and affection that they deserved. Living with a foster family helps to provide them with that one-toone care, allowing them to build up their confidence and get used to a normal lifestyle. You may even be asked to foster an animal that is convalescing following illness or injury while they prepare for the adoption process. Providing stable futures Pardon the pun, but did you know that you could also foster a horse or a pony? You can foster a horse or a pony as a companion for your own horse. Or if you don’t
To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 43 Complete Garden Design& Landscape Service GARDEN THE ROBIN Call: 01462 815968 / 07785 530558 Email: robinsandler@yahoo.co.uk Web: www.thegardenrobin.co.uk Driveways, Patios and Paving Porcelain & Natural Stone Paving Wood and Composite Decking Pond Construction & Water Features Artificial Grass, Fencing and Screening Irrigation Systems Installed
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts44 www.hertsandbedselectrical.co.ukElectrician 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 / nigelrooney@hotmail.co.ukEmail:07941295883
45To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 Arlesey Football Club Local News It has been a very busy summer at Arlesey Town Football Club, the club has a new manager in Nick Brown, with a huge push towards youth development. Last season the under 14’s won the County Cup against a very strong Bedford side, and you can see the trophy proudly displayed alongside the club’s Vase triumph at Wembley, in our newly refurbished clubhouse. The club now has four state of the art 8K TV’s where you can enjoy all of the sporting action for the year ahead, pool and darts, plus a brand new decking area which is a real suntrap. This season the club is looking to bring back more youth teams to add to the four that already play under the Arlesey banner. If you’re involved in a team or if you have kids looking to get involved in a local football club, please do contact us on the details below. All of this would not be possible without the commitment of our volunteer committee. The club has no owner as such, and no shareholders. It is entirely run by volunteers who do a range of jobs around the club. Unfortunately over the last few years we have lost members to old age, change of living situation and work commitments, so we are on the lookout for new volunteers. Just one or two hours a week can make a huge difference to your local club. If you’re interested please contact us using the details below. Contact: Chris Sterry - Club Secretary 07540201473 Email: info@arleseytownfc.co.uk ROOFINGC.S.SERVICESLTD Tel: 07498 983850 Email: charliesewell@hotmail.co.uk C.S Roofing Services Limited Flat Roofing • Tile Roofing • Slating Leadwork • Guttering • uPVC Fascias & Soffits Free Quotations 40 Years Collective Experience Fully Insured 10 Year Guarantee on all work
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts46 0800 046 DRIVEWAYSRESINBOUNDwww.thehomeimprovementproject.co.ukhello@thehomeimprovementproject.co.uk1080 • MAINTENANCE AND WEED FREE • HARD WEARING • QUICK INSTALLATION • CAN BE USED AS OVERLAY • BESPOKE DESIGNS • SUITABLE FOR DRIVEWAYS, PATHS AND PATIOS • 10 YEAR GUARANTEE NOT YOUR AVERAGE HOME IMPROVEMENT COMPANY RELIABLECOMPANYROOFING ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 35 YEARS BUILT UP FELT ROOFING SPECIALISTS & GENERAL ROOF REPAIRS • SLATE & TILE • REPLACEMENT FASCIAS/ SOFFITS, UPVC OR TIMBER • GUTTERING MAINTENANCE & REPLACEMENT • GUARANTEED WORKMANSHIP AT REALISTIC PRICES • FREE ESTIMATES 01767 312914 • 01707 272532 07973 844240 www.reliableroofing-herts.co.ukreliableroofing@btinternet.comPROPRIETORR.S.CROW F.I.O.R. &MUSCLEMOTOR Call Richard on: 01767 317387 or 07968 787496 Email:www.muscleandmotor.co.ukmuscleandmotor@gmail.com 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.
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48 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZEasyCodewordSudoku Hard Sudoku Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repetition. Use your logic to solve the puzzles.
To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 49 Visit our beautiful 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 bathrooms@stevenageplumbing.co.uk725309www.stevenageplumbing.co.uk Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS
info@stevenagechoral.org.uk Web: www.stevenagechoral.org.uk 5,
The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open to the public. Entry is free but official photo ID required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom. Tel: 07778 837263 Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk
5 SEPTEMBER Lego Club Letchworth4-5pmLibrary £3 per child. First Monday of the month. For children ages 5-12 years. Hour of creative fun with Lego. Booking essential at the library.
Social Club for Single TheCromwell8.30-10.30pmPeopleBar,SunHotel, Hitchin Medium-sized social club for single people aged 40 upwards. Meets every Monday night. Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 Web: www.branch-out.org.uk 6,
South View, Letchworth £3. Tuesdays and Fridays. Play from 1pm but do come earlier. Beginners and improvers welcome – we play very friendly Rubber Bridge. Tel: Gill Cheaney 01462 686806 Email: bridgeclub@lalg.org.uk 7 SEPTEMBER Aircraft Enthusiasts’ Group 1pm Shuttleworth Guests £5. ‘The Duncan Sandys Myth’ by Greg Baughen. Meets on the first Wednesday of every month. Entry to Shuttleworth £19.50/£17.50 online in advance (valid for 30 days). E: 99aegr@gmail.com Web: www.a-e-g.org.uk 7, 14, 21 & 28 SEPTEMBER Hinxworth Art Society 10am-12pm Hinxworth Village Hall Drawing, painting, coffee and chat. No need to book. Occasional oneday courses and demonstrations. Email: 99aegr@gmail.com 7, 14, 21 & 28 SEPTEMBER Baby Rhyme Hitchin10.15-10.45amTime&11.15-11.45amLibrary Free - donations welcome Fun half hour sessions of songs and rhymes are perfect for helping your child to learn language skillss. Booking essential. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 7, 14, 21 & 28 SEPTEMBER Open Wednesday at the Walled Luton10.30am-4pmGardenHooEstate, Luton Entry £7.50 including guided tour, school age children £1, under 5s and carers free Last entry 2.30pm. No access from the hotel – please use LU1 4LF. Tel: 01582 721443 Web: BMNUTickets:www.lutonhooestate.co.ukhttps://trybooking.co.uk/ What's On WHAT’S ON IN SEPTEMBER 50 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
Branch
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1 SEPTEMBER The Arts Society North Herts Doors open 10.15am, 11am-12.15pm Broadway Cinema and Theatre, Eastcheap, Letchworth ‘Ford Madox Brown: The PreRaphaelite Half Brother’ by Alan Read. Visitors welcome. Lift access. Web: org.uktheartssocietynorthherts. 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26 & 29 SEPTEMBER Retired Persons Table Tennis Club Mondays 11am-1.30pm, Thursdays 1.30-4pm Memorial Hall, Stotfold The club plays both doubles and singles. Monthly subscription payable. Vacancies for new members (but not beginners). Email: terrygriffiths50@gmail.com 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 SEPTEMBER Hitchin Thursday Art Club St.9.30am-12pmJohn’sCommunity Centre, St. John’s Road, Hitchin We meet every Thursday for painting and drawing, etc. We are a friendly group who enjoy art and chatting. Tel: Mike 07977 347707 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 SEPTEMBER Sapphire Social Singles Club 8pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin Meet every Thursday. A friendly social group for single people to meet and make new friendsgenerally 50+ age group. Tel/text: Ian 07900 890583 for info W: sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 SEPTEMBER 10.30-11amStorytime Letchworth Library Free - donations welcome Interactive story sessions, perfect for pre-school children. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 SEPTEMBER Bridge Club 1.30-4.30pm Springfield House, Old Stevenage Community Centre Play social cut-in Chicago Bridge. Play is informal and friendly. Tel: Richard Bean 01438 221517 3 SEPTEMBER
5, 12, 19 & 26 SEPTEMBER Monday Painting Group Letchworth9am-12pm Corner Sports Club, Whitethorn Lane Meets every Monday. Each term we choose a selection of subjects to paint. If you are interested, you are welcome to try it for £5 per session. Tel: Valerie Williams 01462 624439 Email: mondaypainting@lalg.org.uk
Stevenage Choral Society 7.45pm Stevenage Music Centre, Mobbsbury, Stevenage Meets every Monday during term time. No audition necessary. Meet like-minded people of all ages and abilities. Try out a wide range of music, from the classics to show songs. Tel: 01438 365769 Email: 12, 19 & SEPTEMBER Out 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27 & 30 SEPTEMBER Bridge Club 1pm Howgills,
The Signals Museum Open Day RAF10am-4pmHenlow, SG16 6DN
5, 12, 19 & 26 SEPTEMBER
Tel:
Email:
Flower Club 7.30pm Church House, next to St Mary’s Church Churchyard, Hitchin Visitors £8 Workshop. 29 SEPTEMBER Stevenage RSPB Local Group Trip to Stansted Innings Meet 9.30am No charge for RSPSB members Morning walk round this area of mixed habitats on the edge of Stansted Abbots and to the North of Rye Meads. Meet in the car park at grid ref 166/TL 386115. Postcode SG18 8HL. Leader Graham Beevor. Tel: 01438 232055 30 SEPTEMBER Afternoon Tea Benslow4pm Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin £19.95pp/£24.95pp with a glass of EnjoyProseccoafternoon tea at Benslow Music complemented with live music. Booking required. Tel: 01462 459446 Web: https://benslowmusic.org WHAT’S ON IN SEPTEMBER The deadline for What’s On entries is 12th September. What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.net 51To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122
What's On 7 & 21 SEPTEMBER Meet and Compete 2-3.30pm Stevenage Library Free – donations welcome The group meets every other week in the front area of the library to play scrabble and other board games. All ages welcome. 9 SEPTEMBER Unicorn Ceilidh Doors open 7.30pm St Mary’s Church Hall, Church Street, Baldock With Oxford NAGS and caller Barry Goodman. Ceilidh dances are great fun, easy to learn - and addictive! Book online. Tel: Alan Creamer 07946 439095 or 01582 724261 Web: www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk 10 & 23 SEPTEMBER Sabbath Service 11am & 7pm Stevenage Liberal Synagogue welcomes members and visitors to their sabbath services on the second Saturday and fourth Friday evening of the month. Tel: 01438 300222 Email org.ukwww.stevenageliberalsynagogue.gmail.comstevenageliberalsynagogue@ 11 SEPTEMBER Open Day and Wine Sale 11am-4pm Warden Abbey Vineyard, near Old Warden Adults £4 in advance online, £5 on day, children under 16 free, tours £5. Wine tasting, local food and other stalls, Petting farm, BBQ and Web:refreshments.www.wardenvineyard.org.uk 12 SEPTEMBER Icknield Quilters Baldock7.45pm Community Centre, Simpson Drive, Baldock Meets second Monday of the month. Visitors welcome.
7.30pm Holy
Stevenage RSPB Local Group coach trip to Rye Harbour 8.15am Visit this popular reserve on the East Sussex coast to look
Weston
14 SEPTEMBER Bedford Local Group of The Wildlife Trust. 7.15pm for 7.30pm Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnam Avenue, Bedford Illustrated talk ‘An Introduction to Bedfordshire’s Geology‘ by Bev Fowlston. Ample parking. All welcome. No charge but voluntary contributions appreciated. Tel: 01234 266057 W: wildlifebcn.org
Stevenage RSPB Local Group 7.30pm The Friends Meeting House, Cutty’s Lane, Stevenage Members £3, non-members £4, under 16s 50p ‘Birds of the North Kent Reserves‘ with Jonathon Forgham. 01438 236310 trevorstorey54@gmail.com SEPTEMBER Hitchin
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16 SEPTEMBER Concert by Primrose Quartet 8pm Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin The Primrose Piano Quartet was formed in 2004 by four renowned chamber musicians. Enjoy them perform Beethoven, Schoenberg SEPTEMBER Concerts Trinity SEPTEMBER for departing migrants, coastal and woodland birds. Contact Graham Graham Beevor 01438 232055 grahambeevor@hotmail.co.uk SEPTEMBER
Email:
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for information. Tel:
15 SEPTEMBER Hitchin Friendship Club 2.15-4.15pm St Michaels Mount Community Centre Meets third Thursday of the month. Interesting talks, pub lunches, day trips, coffee mornings, holidays and much more. Refreshments, book exchange, raffle and quiz. Tel: 07974 374106
Church, Weston Tickets £20, under 25s £5 Roth Guitar Duo. Emma Smith and Sam Rodwell – both Masters graduates of Royal Northern College, Manchester, studying under Craig www.westonmusicsociety.org.ukwww.trybooking.co.uk/BQFKOgden. 18
13 SEPTEMBER Lego Club 3.30-4.30pm Baldock Library £3 per child. Second Tuesday of the month. For children ages 5-12 years. Hour of creative fun with Lego. Booking essential at the library.
and Web:Chausson.https://benslowmusic.org 17
52 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts IAN CarpentrySIMPSONand Joinery All aspects of carpentry work undertaken Kitchens, Bedrooms, Doors, Windows 25 years experience Free estimates Please call 01462 851695 or 07967162448 E-mail ij_simpson@hotmail.com
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Local News
Local fire & rescue service manager climbing the tallest peaks in England, Scotland and Wales
I’ve been part of the fire and rescue service since 2007, starting as a part-time firefighter in Essex before joining Hertfordshire, then Bedfordshire’s 999 fire control centre. You may have spoken to us when you dialled 999 after witnessing that accident on the A1M, perhaps when your car caught fire one night, or your neighbour’s bonfire got out of control, coming perilously close to your house. Always ready to receive your call and help you in your worst moments. It’s not a job that you often ‘leave at work’ and the pressure it puts on mental health is significant. That is one of the reasons why I, along with colleagues from all over the UK, are raising money for The Fire Fighters Charity The Charity offers specialist lifelong support for members of the UK’s fire services community, empowering individuals to achieve mental, physical and social wellbeing throughout their lives. To ensure the Charity can do this for over 5,000 people a year and to meet the £9m cost of operating its support services, it is dependent on regular Todonations.raiseas much money as possible, I am taking on the National Three Peaks Challenge in June 2023, climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowden; back-to-back, aiming for less than 15 hours climbing time. Could you please help us to raise these much-needed funds – please scan the QR code to donate safely. Are you a business owner? Could you consider sponsoring us and have your company logo displayed on our social media posts? Together we’re hoping to make a difference to members of our Fire Family who may be in need. Dave Smith, Upper Caldecote
54 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
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Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts56 When things hit close to home, they make us think a little more carefully about things Local News 1 in 8 men will get prostate cancer. If you are over 50, or you’re black, or your dad or brother had it, you’re at even higher risk. Prostate cancer is not always life-threatening. But when it is, the earlier you catch it the more likely it is to be cured. I am not really one for sharing personal stuff on social media usually, but I guess this is exactly what it should be used for, to share personal experiences and raise awareness. My grandfather had prostate cancer and my dad has recently been diagnosed with it, meaning that my chances have doubled and if I get it that means my two year old sons chances double when he is older. I don’t have a fight or flight, it’s all fight, so as soon as I heard the news, I started looking at all the relevant information available but unfortunately there isn’t much clear advice due to lack of research. As much as I’d love to do the research myself I can’t so I’ll leave that to the professionals BUT I can raise awareness by speaking about this and sharing my experiences and fears and I can also raise money so this is the first of hopefully many, fundraising challenges I will be setting myself. I am completing a marathon called ‘Football March’ where I will be taking on a unique 26.2 mile marathon walk, which starts, finishes and passes through some iconic football clubs along the way around South London on Sunday 25th September. Thank you for reading, sharing, and giving in advance. Kieran https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/football-march-2022-london-20802
To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Will Punchard from Bythorn EditionAugustfromSolutionPuzzleCrosswordour August’s Codeword and Sudoku Solutions Advertising in The Villager is easy. To find out more call Nigel on 01767 261122 or email nigel@villagermag.com Easy Hard 57
58 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Name: Address: Tel: The Villager Prize Crossword Complete the crossword and fill in your details below, before 16th September 2022 Either cut out this page and send to Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd. 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Or photograph your entry and email to competitions@villagermag.com The winner will be drawn at random from the correct entries. Prize £25 1AcrossInaddition (4) 3 Greets (8) 9 Painful condition (7) 10 Childminder (5) 11 Developments (12) 14 Appropriate (3) 16 Braid hair (5) 17 Winter sport (3) 18 Purposefully (12) 21 Time-piece (5) 22 Distinctive (7) 23 Moving very fast (8) 24 Questions (4) 1DownFrom the United States (8) 2 Tantrum (5) 4 Used for seeing (3) 5 Condensed (12) 6 Parts of an hour (7) 7 Speaks (4) 8 Talented (12) 12 Delete (5) 13 Two wheeled vehicles (8) 15 Rigid support frame (7) 19 Departs (5) 20 In debt (4) 22 Male child (3)
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Falling off the Ladder Helen Hill It’s daunting taking the leap into self-employment. Even the most confident amongst us will wobble at times. Falling off the Ladder is like having a supportive friend on the sidelines cheering you on. It’s about changing your mindset, valuing what you have to offer and celebrating your achievements. There’s also advice on everything from finding a community of fellow business owners to dealing with overwhelm. Out of Office: Ditch the 9-5 and Be Your Own Boss Fiona Thomas From reasons to take the plunge to things to consider before you do, and practical advice on aspects such as tax, insurance, raising an invoice and building a client base, this book has it all. Plus, it’s actually enjoyable to read (not something that can be said for most business books). Making Your Website Work Gill Andrews Offering ‘100 copy and design tweaks for smart business owners’, this book will help you to tighten up your website so it attracts more visitors and converts them into customers. It’s packed with great advice, from how to improve your contact page to what to include in your footer. Whether you’re creating your own website or hiring an agency, this book is a must.
Taking the plunge
Books Whether you’re freelancing, running a side hustle or thinking about setting up a small business for the first time, these books could make your life that little bit easier.
By Kate Duggan
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Plastering Services James Geekie Plastering All types of plastering - big or small Interior/Exterior Work Undertaken Re-skim Rooms, Walls, Artex & Ceilings Dry Lining and Screeding Tel: 07792 415356 or 01462 490598 Email: james.geekie@hotmail.co.uk Plumbing and Heating Classifieds Plumbing Gary’s Plumbing Over 40 years experience No job too small! Please call Gary on 07530 728091 Electrician Free Estimates Given 07722 Plastering,David.mortby@live.co.uk128189PaintingandDecorating Dave Mortby Plastering. Painting and Decorating 62 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Guaranteed Repairs To: Washing Machines • Tumble Dryers Electric Ovens/Cookers • Dishwashers No Call Out Charge! JB Domestic Tel: 01767 680621 or Mob: 07778 891490 Domestic Appliance Repairs Domestic Appliance RepairsPainterAccountants&Decorator
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. Alcoholics Anonymous ..................... Al-Anon Family Groups..................... 0800 008 6811 Anglian Water .................................. 08457 145 145 Bedford Hospital ............................... 01234 355122 Lister Hospital ................................... 01438 314333 Addenbrooks Hospital ....................... 01223 245151 Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue ............ 01234 845000 Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue ........... 01438 729041 Carers Line ....................................... 0808 808 7777 ChildLine ................................................. 0800 1111 Citizens Advice ................................. 0344 245 1292 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 .................................................................... 111 National Rail Enquiries .................... 03457 48 49 50 Non Emergency Police Line ................................ 101 NSPCC .............................................. 0808 800 5000 Pre-bereavement Helpline Support.. 0808 801 0688 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 Bringing Local Business to Local People For more information or to reserve your space please contact Nigel on: Tel: 01767 261122 Email: nigel@villagermag.com Web: www.villagermag.com USEFUL NUMBERS VILLAGER The and Town Life To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 63
