Hitchin May 2022

VILLAGER The

Issue 48 - May 2022

and Town

Life

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

Inside this issue A Joyous Jubilee Niagara Falls

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Inside this issue...

Yoga for Beginners

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Making Positive Mental Space for Gardening.................26 Beds for Elderly Dogs.....................................................30 The Great British Spring Clean........................................33 Puzzle Page....................................................................36 What’s On In May...........................................................38 Villager Prize Crossword.................................................42 The Book Nook...............................................................46 Useful Numbers.............................................................47

Niagara Falls....................................................................4 A Joyous Jubilee...............................................................6 Wines: Choosing a Selection............................................8 Yoga For Beginners........................................................12 Car Booty! A Very British Treasure Hunt..........................14 Seasonal Recipe: Mediterranean Baked Chicken............17 Trends, really?................................................................20 Choose a BMAS Mobility Bathroom................................24

Car Booty!

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Get your business off to a flying start this year

Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £25.00 +VAT per month Editorial - Solange Hando, Catherin Rose, Trevor Langley, Tracey Anderson, Jennie Billings, Caroline Knight, Bathing Mobility Advisory Service, RSPCA and Kate Duggan

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

Publishers Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 261122 Email: nigel@villagermag.com www.villagermag.com

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

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Travel

Niagara Falls

By Solange Hando

Straddling the Canada-US border, Niagara is one of the ‘World’s Big Three’, alongside Iguazu and Victoria, and for sheer power and popularity it is top of the list in North America. Draining the waters of Lake Erie into Lake Ontario, the river is only thirty-six miles long but awesome from end to end.

The Natives called it ‘Great Thunderer of Waters’, honouring the god dwelling in the cataract.

According to historians, the first Europeans to view the Falls were a French explorer and his priest who spoke of waters that “foam and boil in fearful manner”. There was twice as much water in those days, prior to hydro-electricity production, but as you approach the Falls Mother Nature still sends shivers down your spine.

Three falls will take your breath away. On the US side are the American Falls and beyond Luna Island the Bridal Veil with the best overall view from the Observation Tower. Then comes Goat Island with its shuddering Cave of the Winds and on the other side the Horseshoe, the biggest fall, 2,600 feet across and almost entirely on Canadian territory. It captures 90% of the water rushing over the ledge and drops 187 feet. How much water over the Falls? Almost enough to fill a million baths a minute, they say, but on March 29th 1848 it all stopped as ice blocked

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the upper river. This was the first time the Falls were completely frozen, having tumbled and roared ever since the Great Lakes were created at the end of the Ice Age and water carved its way towards the Atlantic.

The best panorama is from Canada but cruising below the Falls is stunning from either side: turbulent water, rocks, islands, spray all around, then expect to get really wet (cape provided) when you reach the Horseshoe. It’s exhilarating and a highlight worth queueing for. Other attractions (Canadian side) include a ‘Journey Behind the Falls’ – follow the tunnels and see the Horseshoe plummeting right in front of you – and the Skylon Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the Falls and the legendary Rainbow Bridge between the two countries. Then there are tales of daredevils who challenged Niagara, among them the amazing Blondin who performed myriad antics on a tightrope and sixty-three-year-old schoolteacher Annie Taylor who achieved the first successful barrel jump over the Falls.

Tourist facilities are available on both sides but ground adjacent to the Falls has been secured for permanent parkland, with flowers and trees adding their own charm according to season. There’s a State Park on the American side and, along the escarpment in Ontario, a biosphere reserve listed

by UNESCO. Meanwhile, beyond the Falls the river follows its course through a dramatic gorge, over six miles long, all rapids and whirlpool, before flowing into Lake Ontario in the pretty town of Niagara on the Lake.

Erosion has slowed down in modern times so the Niagara Falls might be with us for another 50,000 years.

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Special Report

A Joyous Jubilee!

June’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations mark an extraordinary 70 years since Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne, surpassing the previous record held by her great-great-grandmother Queen Victoria, who reigned for 63 years.

Born Elizabeth Alexandra Mary on 21st April 1926 at 17 Bruton Street, London, the girl nicknamed Lilibet wasn’t destined to be Queen.

She was the eldest daughter of Prince Albert and Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, Duke and Duchess of York.

The Duke, a shy man with a pronounced stammer, was the younger brother of Edward who was heir to the throne, and the family of four with their two daughters were anticipating a quiet life without the heavy responsibilities of rule. However, an event that shocked the nation was to propel Elizabeth into the spotlight and take her on a quite different path.

Only twelve months after his coronation, Edward VIII’s love for a twice-divorced American woman, Wallace Simpson, led him to abdicate. It may seem strange to us now, but even into the 1960s it was strictly taboo for a sovereign, or member of the Royal family, to marry a divorcee.

As second in line to the throne, Edward’s brother Albert had to take his place. Crowned King George VI on 11th December 1936 at 40 years old, Princess Elizabeth, then ten, became heir. From that point, her education and upbringing focused on the fact she would one day be Queen.

In 1947, Elizabeth married Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten in Westminster Abbey. They settled in Clarence House and two years later Prince Charles was born. Although still only 55 years old, in the summer of 1951 King George’s health began to fail and the young Princess Elizabeth had to undertake her first official duty when she stepped in to represent her father at the Trooping of the Colour.

That autumn, Elizabeth and Philip departed for a tour of Canada and Washington DC, where the young couple was enthusiastically received.

In January 1952, they set out for another tour of Australia and New Zealand. However, on 6th February, while en route in Kenya, the King died of a coronary thrombosis at Sandringham. Elizabeth immediately flew back as Queen. She was just 25 years old.

After three months of private mourning for her beloved father, Queen Elizabeth moved into Buckingham Palace and began to start the routine

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By Catherine Rose

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Coronation portrait, June 1953, London, England. duties expected of a monarch. She took her role seriously, conducting her first state opening of Parliament in November 1952.

Her coronation was held at Westminster Abbey on 2nd June 1953. Controversially, Prince Philip was instrumental in having the ceremony televised. Both the Queen and her husband subsequently worked to modernise the monarchy while retaining its traditional sense of public duty and creed of “never complain, never explain.”

Like all of us, Queen Elizabeth has lived through difficult times, and last year lost her husband and life companion. But despite bouts of ill health herself, she has stoically continued her duties. Now, aged 96 and still head of the Commonwealth, she has lived a life of service to her country and is admired, respected and loved around the globe.

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Food & Drink

Wines: Choosing a Selection

Sparkling wines are a very popular choice, for many people and make an occasion into an event and an event into a celebration. The popularity of sparkling wines increases yearly and they offer excellent value. Numerous countries, globally, have winemakers producing sparkling wines. These types of wines are widely available and I searched for a retailer, that offers a good selection of ‘sparklers’, as well as still productions.

English wine is increasing greatly, in appreciation and recognition, gaining numerous awards, both in the UK and abroad. MORRISONS THE BEST ENGLISH SPARKLING BRUT VINTAGE (11.5% vol), I found to be very impressive.

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes are utilised, to great advantage, culminating in a grand, finished product. This brut sparkling wine is stored for several years, in cool cellars, before being released.

The fine bubbles receive much admiration, from sparkling wine lovers. A very good floral and citrusy bouquet continues to the mouthfeel and sensation for the palate.

From France, I located MORRISONS THE BEST CRÉMANT de LIMOUX (12.5% vol). This brut sparkling wine is made in partnership with Sieur d’Arques. Dominant with Chardonnay and aged for a minimum of 12 months in bottle, this ‘sparkler’ is another extremely popular production, indeed, with a good ‘stream’ of bubbles, adored by many. A very good aroma of apple hints, extends to the fruity, citrusy pleasures, on the mouth.

Italy is another country with an impressive history for producing sparkling wines. MORRISONS THE BEST PROSECCO VALDOBBIADENE DOCG (11% vol) has a great number of ‘devotees’, too. This production graces dining tables regularly and is very much appreciated and respected, having a good perlage to please the eye, then a most acceptable bouquet and mouthfeel of apple sensations, plus white fruits.

I located these sparkling wines at a Morrisons store, in their ‘The Best’ range, which was developed by their wine experts. Perfect by themselves and also to accompany a lot of dishes, including fish, seafood and white meats. Dating from 1899, Morrisons have become a leading supermarket, providing a wealth of products, from everyday household essentials, through specific requirements, to an excellent range of wines, spirits and other beverages.

For all products and information, please visit www.morrisons.co.uk

As always, Enjoy!

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ey Trevor Langl

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Sport

Yoga for beginners Yoga has been practised for thousands of years.

Modern yoga mainly focuses on Asanas (postures or poses) and Pranayama (breathing).

Stressed? Achy? Stiff joints? You need some yoga in your life…

What benefits do you get from yoga?

Yoga can help to improve your flexibility, balance and muscle strength. It can also be a great stress reliever and may help to ease anxiety, lower your blood pressure and help you to get a better night’s sleep.

Who can practise yoga?

Yoga is a low-impact exercise that’s suitable for most people. No one will care that your downward dog pose isn’t perfect or that you wobble a bit doing standing balances. You’re never too old to start and there are even chair-based classes for people with limited mobility.

Are there different types of yoga?

There are several types of yoga. Hatha is the one most commonly practised in the UK. If a class just says ‘yoga’, it’s likely based on Hatha principles.

Other styles include Vinyasa, Iyengar and Sivananda.

Bikram and other forms of hot yoga takes place in a studio that’s been heated to 33-41°C. Is yoga the same as pilates?

Pilates often incorporates yoga poses, but it’s also influenced by other exercises and tends to involve more movement. Pilates is less spiritual than yoga and places more focus on improving core strength.

What should I wear for a yoga class?

You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes that won’t restrict your movement, trip you up or fall over your

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head when you’re bending down. You can invest in exercise clothes designed specifically for yoga, but a T-shirt and pair of leggings will do fine to start with.

Yoga classes often end with students lying still for a mindfulness or breathing exercise, so you might want to bring a jumper or light blanket in case you get cold.

What equipment will I need?

For most types of yoga, you won’t need any special equipment other than a yoga mat. This provides a bit of cushioning from the hard floor and helps prevent your hands and feet from slipping when you’re moving through the poses.

Your instructor might suggest using other equipment, such as yoga blocks and straps, but these will usually be provided by the studio. If you’re planning to try hot yoga, you’ll need a towel and a water bottle.

How can I learn yoga?

It’s best to join a beginner’s class led by a qualified yoga instructor who can check you’re doing the moves correctly. Not only will this help you to get the most out of the poses, it’ll also reduce any risk of injury.

Can I learn yoga online?

If you can’t afford to sign up for a class right now or want to practise yoga more often, you could try a class on YouTube. Adriene Mishler is probably the best-known online yoga instructor and has hundreds of free videos on YouTube, many of which are suitable for beginners. Search for ‘Yoga with Adriene’.

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Special Report

By Tracey Anderson

Car Booty! A very British treasure hunt Late spring is the time when car boot sales pop up all over the country. There is something very British about wandering through a field full of cars, poking around in cardboard boxes of other people’s belongings hunting for treasure. We probably all harbour a secret fantasy of appearing on The Antiques Roadshow and saying brightly “I bought it at a car boot sale for 10p,” just before the expert responds, “Well it’s actually a 17th century masterpiece, very rare and if it came to auction it would sell for thousands.” Ok that’s unlikely to happen but you might be able to refurnish your home and replenish your wardrobe for just a few pounds, and if you want to make a few pounds from your own decluttering and don’t mind an early start, holding a car boot sale can be quite lucrative.

If you’re buying the best deals are usually found at the beginning and end of the sale. The best quality items are usually found at the start, while the best prices are found as proceedings are wrapping up.

It helps to know broadly what items you intend to buy before arriving because it’s easy to get carried away. Haggling is expected, but don’t insult sellers by offering too little: Items are very low-priced to begin with.

If you are going to sell at a car boot sale you need to be prepared. Decide whether you want to clear your clutter or make money: you can’t always do both. Remember no matter how cheaply you price your goods, people will haggle. You could have a ‘Rembrandt’ on sale for a pound and someone

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would offer you fifty pence. Price labels are useful.

Block price some items such as “all books fifty pence, three for a pound”. Clearly mark anything not included in the block pricing system. Take lots of change with you, plenty of carrier bags and some old newspapers with which to wrap fragile items.

Going in with a friend is a good idea, both for the company and also to help out when either of you need to nip to the loo, or want to browse other stalls.

Make sure you pack your table in the car last, so it’s the first item to come out and not buried under everything else. Be warned; on arrival at the sale ground you may be mobbed by a canny crowd of experienced ‘booters’ hunting for bargains. These folk tend to be dealers and they can be intimidating.

They are after cheap buys to resell. Consider waiting in your car for a while to give them time to disappear before you unpack.

Busy stalls attract more people so pile it high and sell it cheap. Welcome everyone who approaches your table with a warm smile and a cheery greeting. As the end of the day approaches, cut your prices if you don’t want to take everything home again.

Whether selling or buying, with the current economic climate, and energy prices soaring, this could be a bumper year for car boot sales.

People are much more clued up about collectables and antiques now, so it’s harder to find ‘real treasure’.

But you never know, there’s always a chance we may see you on The Antiques Roadshow!

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Seasonal Recipe

Full of Mediterranean flavours, this one pot dish is perfect for busy days.

Mediterranean baked chicken with new potatoes and tomatoes Ingredients 8 new potatoes, halved 4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless 2 tsp Italian seasoning Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp crushed garlic 1 onion, finely chopped 1 400g can coconut milk 200g cherry tomatoes, halved 4 sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped 1 tbsp cornflour 250g baby spinach leaves Handful of basil leaves or parsley to serve, optional 1. Preheat the oven to 180C / 160C fan / gas mark 4.

2. Place the new potatoes in a pan of boiling salted water and parboil for 5 minutes, then drain.

3. Rub the chicken breasts with sea salt, black pepper and Italian seasoning.

4. Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a casserole dish. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 40 minutes Serves 4 until starting to turn lightly golden. Flip over and cook for a further 5 minutes.

5. Remove the chicken and place on a plate.

6. Add the rest of the oil then stir in the garlic and onion and sauté for 2 minutes to soften.

7. Pour in the coconut milk. Add the chicken, cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes and new potatoes.

Stir well.

8. Cover and place in the oven for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

9. Remove the pan from the oven and place on the hob.

10. Mix the cornflour with a little water to slacken.

11. Stir in the spinach and cornflour mixture. Simmer for a couple of minutes over a low heat to thicken the sauce.

12. Serve with a scattering of basil or parsley (if using) and a mixed salad.

Nutrition per serving: 329kcal, fat 21g (of which saturates 16g), carbohydrates 15g (of which sugars 5.2g), protein 35g

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House of Colour

Trends, really?

I love the fashion update we produce twice a year for our clients. This is a great way we stylists can help our clients keep up to date while still honouring their own personality, individuality and body shape. We all go through phases of thinking perhaps that we can’t be bothered, can’t face the shops and frankly don’t know where to begin when it comes to trends and whether any of them are worth being part of or even suit us. But, there is a saying that by keeping our look contemporary we give the impression that our thinking is contemporary – worth considering..? This isn’t about wearing the latest fads or spending a lot on a new wardrobe every season but the odd item that suits us and has a nod to the newer looks.

To give you some inspiration: • Joyful brights – you may have heard the term ‘dopamine dressing’. The brighter shades around now are certainly intended for that! Lots of brights for all the seasons, stunning apple green and tangerine for Springs, seagreens for Summers, vibrant fuschia pinks for Winters and rich grass greens for Autumns to name a few.

• Anorak – never thought I’d be writing this but yes the anorak is having a moment. Look out for feminine cagoules and longer length parkers with zip detailing. You can wear with pride. Handy at the very least!

• Hyper texture – this is texture that is exaggerated.

Style into details, add it in accessories. Too much can look messy if it’s not in your clothing personality.

• Cargo pants – harking back to a little 90’s nostalgia the cargo is revamped with sleeker lines and different fabrics. Consider the pocket placement and detailing to ensure they are in a flattering position for you. A silk option as an event dressing also an option.

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• Wider legged trousers – more volume is definitely more! Many options around often with elasticated waist and draping fabrics. Versatile with a jacket more formally or dressed down with a knit top informally.

• Relaxed knits – wider silhouettes and relaxed styling make these an easy addition to your wardrobe. Perfect for layering on cooler days sleeveless options abound!

• Bold prints – in maxis for holiday wear, shirting and flowing fabrics. Also to be found in co-ord sets (top and bottom in same print) are a great option in the warmer weather.

Needless to say not all trends are our friends, and not all seasons make it easy, but we can all find something that lifts our look and our spirits! This season has some real shifts in it that have given a wider variety of clothing personalities something to go for. Pick up a copy of your fashion update from your stylist.

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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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

VIRTUAL PA / GIRL FRIDAY

DO YOU EVER WISH YOU HAD AN EXTRA PAIR OF HANDS? NO MONEY OR TIME TO EMPLOY THAT EXTRA PERSON! WHY NOT CALL ME!!

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Fungal Nails Diabetic Footcare Fully registered and insured 12 years experience

TAKE A LOOK AT THE WEBSITE AND GIVE ME A CALL TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS www.helpinghandsofficeservices.com Tel: 01767 690075 / 07966 554304 Email: maureen@helpinghandsofficeservices.co.uk

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

Keep your hard-earned wealth within the family Stop your home from being sold to pay for long term Care Fees.

Prevent the courts from making your financial and healthcare decisions.

If you already have a Will … Is it up to date?

Several thousand outdated wills are legally challenged every year.

Ensure your parents’ home and property is also protected.

DON’T PUT IT OFF – Don’t let your home and money disappear, make sure your estate goes to your family… leaving “what you want” to “who you want”.

CALL 01767 660250 or email info@willandestateplanning.com for more information or to book a free meeting with one of our Will and Estate Planners either in your own home or at our offices.

Baystrait Ltd t/a Will & Estate Planning, Baystrait House, Station Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8AL

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Bathing Mobility

Choose a BMAS mobility bathroom for independent living in the home you love

Wet Room

Walk in shower

Are you thinking about renovating your bathroom?

Your current bathroom may be tired and in need of updating, or you may be planning for when getting around the house becomes more difficult. Or you may have an immediate need, unable to get in and out of your traditional bath or finding the shower difficult to use.

Whatever the reason, it makes sense to speak with a bathing mobility specialist who has the expert experience to design and install your bathroom.

When using the Bathing Mobility Advisory Service (BMAS), you really are in safe hands - their sole focus is designing and installing mobility bathrooms.

Managed by Lee Brand with 26 years’ experience in the adaptation industry, they have been installing safe, easy access bathrooms locally for over two years, with over 200 bathroom projects already completed.

Regain your bathroom and your independence Their passion is to provide you with a safe bathroom environment that will improve your everyday life and indeed, your quality of life. BMAS listen to you so that the bathroom they create will meet your individual requirements exactly. Even though a new bathroom may seem an extravagance, it can mean someone has more years of independent living and brings peace of mind to the whole family.

Wet rooms are the ultimate accessibility solution, offering total level access, but BMAS also install bathrooms with low level shower trays and walk in baths. Combined with specialist slip-resistant flooring, easy-clean hygienic wallboards, safety grab

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rails and fold down shower seating, your bathroom can become fully usable again.

A complete service for your convenience BMAS provides an end-to-end service, starting with the initial free consultation to providing a well thought-out, accessible bathroom design and a comprehensive quote. They supply all the products and carry out all the necessary works themselves, including removing the old bathroom and any building adaptations and electrical works.

Importantly, they manage the whole process for you, so you won’t have to arrange multiple tradespeople and payments and they will be there to answer your questions every step of the way. Works can be completed in as little as four days and your home will be kept clean and tidy throughout.

To find out how BMAS could help you visit the BMAS showroom at 67 Hermitage Road, Hitchin SG5 1DB, call 01462 889 097, email them at herts@bathingmobility.co.uk or see bathingmobility.co.uk

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Gardening

Making positive mental space for gardening Make mental space for gardening Phrases come and phrases go and ‘cancel culture’ is one of the current expressions thst tends to arouse passion. Within the gardening community we prefer to think in terms of ‘subtraction satisfaction’.

What is this and how can it help improve mental health (another well-used phrase that uses loaded language)?

Simply put, most of us need to do less. Many people seem to have too much going on. The digital age and our comparatively luxurious lifestyles mean there are multiple demands on our time. There’s always another gadget to buy, ‘life-enhancing’ changes to make to the home or that ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ holiday to save for (these things always happen more than once). We work more in order to play more and often give in to peer pressure urging us to join in with a greater number of things.

This lifestyle suits a wide range of people, but very rarely is it perfect for gardening folk. So, this wonderful time in spring is the very best time to

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make space for gardening. Subtracting commitments from the diary will help you to do it. Gardening cannot be rushed! A garden is a healing, nurturing place where mental health is soothed and the soul is fed with contentment.

Tend to your green carpet in glorious spring This is the month of plenty, so it’s vital to allow yourself time to enjoy it. Garden tasks can feel overwhelming because everything is growing so fast. Prioritise the lawn, if you have one, because it will provide a visual feature during the months to come. Cut and reshape the edges, it’s amazing what a difference this makes. Gradually lower the cutting blade each mowing time, aiming for grass length of around 6cm – don’t be tempted to take it too low. Most importantly, leave some patches of longer grass for wildlife. At least one square metre is recommended.

Joyful garden tasks for late spring The long days mean that summer is almost here and early spring growth in the garden can be tidied up to

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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

Ca ll: 0 1 4 6 2 8 1 59 6 8 / 07 78 5 5 3 0 5 5 8 Em a il: rob i n sa nd l e r @ ya h o o. co. u k We b: www. thegardenrobin. co. uk

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make way for the glorious summer show. Springflowering shrubs often benefit from being pruned back to healthy buds, but take time to check the most effective method for each species. In the case of forsythia, for example, best results are achieved by taking out some of the older stems, right down to the ground. This thins the shrub whilst still allowing it to adopt its natural form. What you don’t want is a ‘mechanical massacre’ whereby everything is rounded into a blob. Take a walk around your local modern housing estate to see it! Abelia, choisya, helichrysum and chaenomeles can also be pruned now.

Climbers such as clematis need you to be wise.

Some of them can have a light clip at this time of year, but not those that are about to flower! The easy-to-remember advice “if it flowers before June, don’t prune” will tell you what type of pruning group your clematis falls into. The early-flowering clematis only need a very light clip after flowering, whereas those that flower after June will mostly benefit from a harder prune next February. This will encourage the plant to produce flowers all the way down the stems rather than purely on the newer top growth.

Celebrate the season by planting out your annuals towards the end of the month, when all danger of frost has passed. Hanging baskets and bedding will provide vibrant colour and interest right through until October.

Jobs in the kitchen garden • If you are growing strawberries, lay straw between the plants and the soil. It will lessen the chance of mould spoiling the crop and will keep those luscious red fruits clean, too.

• Did you know that you can achieve greater yields from your vegetable beds if you plant in triangles rather than rows or squares?

Stagger your plants, but don’t plant too closely. The crop is far better when there’s a bit more space in between.

• It’s time to make supports for runner beans. Allow about 2.5m of height and plant just one bean per support.

These can go in the ground at the end of the month.

• Chit and plant potatoes, if you haven’t done so already. They like soft, crumbly soil. Always avoid planting them in boggy sites.

• Get weeds under control this month and it will make the rest of the growing season much easier.

Hoe when the weather is dry, as this stops weeds in their tracks.

Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

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Pets

Beds for Elderly Dogs A place to rest their head, extra support for arthritic bones and a little extra TLC - dogs need all of these things as they grow old.

Being aware of the issues they face and what you can do to help, will make their twilight years a happy time for both of you.

An orthopaedic bed with a memory foam mattress will support their joints by moulding itself around them, helping with blood circulation. Problems such as hip dysplasia often show themselves in middle age, so even if you don’t consider your dog to be elderly, it may be worthwhile investing in this type of bed.

Luxury beds A self-heating bed has metallised insulation below the lining and Charley Chau Snuggle Bed £100. ‘reflects’ your pet’s body heat back for extra warmth. Covered http://www.charleychau.com/ with a sheepskin or fleece outer layer, your dog will love you all winter long!

By Caroline Knight Hard floors are very popular with many home-owners and particularly with pet owners, but would you want to sleep on one? An elevated bed keeps your dog away from a cold floor.

One of the most important considerations is the material used to make the bed and mattress. You can buy alpaca fibre and soft fleece fillings, but it’s also important to think about practicality, so zip-off covers should be a priority to maintain hygiene.

A comfortable place to sleep is important for dogs of all ages, but particularly so for those in their later years.

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

Open six days a week

Monday – Friday 7.00am – 4.30pm Saturday 8.00am – 12.00pm

Tel: 01438 311699 Mob: 07788 446635 Email: info@acs-aggregates.com Shangri-La Farm, Todds Green, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 2JE 30

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Pets

The Great British Spring Clean

Between 2020 and 2021 we received a staggering 7, 500 calls about animals that were injured or caught up in litter. This equates to an average of 10 incidents per day! And this is only the ones that we actually know about. The RSPCA have therefore launched a national campaign to help address this upsetting statistic and to raise awareness of litter’s impact on our environment, ecosystems and wildlife. Our plea to prevent animals from suffering is simply to join us in the Great British Spring Clean and to help us Keep Britain Tidy.

Our team of inspectors on the frontline are regularly responding to wildlife emergencies. They are rarely surprised by the entanglements and litter traps that they release our wildlife from. We are heavily reliant upon on the eyes and ears of the general public, and for them to report such cases. As a result, many will go unseen and the only way the suffering will stop is if we are more mindful about our litter and how we dispose of it.

Litter is still an ongoing issue across the country.

We are now seeing a new menace on our streets.

We are all used to wearing face masks to help us all keep safe but the disposable face masks are not always being disposed of responsibly. They are being seen far too often discarded as litter and not placed in bins. This worrying new trend that is emerging requires a swift response. We are advising that you must ‘snip the straps’ before disposing of the face mask, to reduce any likelihood of it causing distress to an animal.

Similarly, animals can also get entangled in the plastic hooped packaging around tins and cans.

They can suffer deep wounds or even choke. Help prevent suffering by always cutting the loops before recycling. Animals looking for food can get trapped in cans or injured by sharp edges. To help prevent harm to animals, clean and empty containers after use, pinch cans shut and cut containers in half

before recycling whenever possible.

Balloons. While a nice touch at a party, animals can actually try to eat balloons and then choke or become impacted by discarded decorations. You can help protect animals by cutting up balloons before putting them safely into your bin. It’s really that simple! Balloon releases are also very threatening to wildlife. Always deflate balloons and bin them once the party’s over. Sadly, even balloons marked as degradable may take a number of weeks to degrade - yet it only takes a second for an animal to swallow a balloon.

Everyday objects that seem perfectly safe can sadly become hazardous when found by animals. By disposing of our rubbish safely instead of littering, we’re making choices that could save many lives.

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. info@rspcabedsnorth.org.uk 01234 266965 / 01234 930304

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ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Sudoku

Hard Sudoku

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

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What's On

WHAT'S ON IN MAY 1 MAY

4 MAY

£2.50 per person Teams of up to 6. Prizes for first and last places, plus spot prizes and raffle. In aid of SERV (Service by Emergency Response Volunteers) who provide emergency bloodrunning and human milk deliveries in Herts and Beds.

T: John 07511 631045 E: quizzesforcharity@outlook.com

Guests £5. ‘The Wooden Wonder – the Mosquito’ with Rod Dean.

Meets on the first Wednesday of every month. Entry to Shuttleworth £15 (valid for one month).

Email: 99aegr@gmail.com Web: www.a-e-g.org.uk

Fun Charity Quiz Night 8pm. Five Bells, Henlow Village

2, 9, 16 & 23 MAY

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

Meets every Monday during term time. No audition necessary. Meet like-minded people of all ages and abilities. Try out a wide range of music, from the classics to show songs. Tel: 01438 365769 Email: info@stevenagechoral.org.uk Web: www.stevenagechoral.org.uk 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 MAY

Baby Rhyme Time 10.30-11am Letchworth Library

Free - donations welcome Fun half hour sessions of songs and rhymes are perfect for helping your child to learn language skills and are an opportunity for you to meet other families too. Booking essential. www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 MAY

Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-10.30pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, 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 4 MAY

Aircraft Enthusiasts’ Group 1pm Shuttleworth

4, 11, 18 & 25 MAY

Storytime 10.30-11am Stevenage Library

Free - donations welcome Interactive story sessions, perfect for pre-school children. No need to book. www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 4, 11, 18 & 25 MAY

Hinxworth Art Society 10am-12pm. Hinxworth Village Hall

5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26 & 30 MAY

Retired Persons Table Tennis Club Mondays 11am-1.30pm.

Thursdays 1.30-4pm Memorial Hall, Stotfold

The club plays both doubles and singles. Monthly subscription payable. Sadly, we are not a club for beginners at this time, but we do have vacancies for new members.

Email Terry for further details.

Email: terrygriffiths50@gmail.com 5, 12, 19 & 26 MAY

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

We meet every Thursday for painting and drawing, etc.

Tel: Mike 07977 347707

Drawing, painting, coffee and chat.

No need to book. Occasional oneday courses and demonstrations.

Email: 99aegr@gmail.com

6 MAY

5 MAY

‘Cholera in Bedford’ with Maurice Nicholson. Web: www.bfhs.org.uk

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

‘Embroidery’ by Susan Kay-Williams.

Visitors welcome. Lift access.

W: theartssocietynorthherts.org.uk 5, 12, 19 & 26 MAY

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

Free - donations welcome Fun half hour sessions of songs and rhymes are perfect for helping your child to learn language skills.

Booking essential. www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 5, 12, 19 & 26 MAY

Sapphire Social Singles Club 8pm. The Orange Tree, Hitchin

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

6 MAY

Bedford Art Society. 7.15 for 7.30pm Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford Members free, visitors £5

Keith Hornblower paints architecture in watercolour. His approach is dynamic, applying paint at speed creating a spontaneous effect. His subject this evening is Venice. T: Jean 01234 307210 Web: www.bedsartsociety.co.uk 6, 13, 20 & 27 MAY

Storytime 10.30-11am Letchworth Library

Free - donations welcome Interactive story sessions, perfect for pre-school children. No need to book. www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 6, 13, 20 & 27 MAY

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

Meet every Thursday. A friendly social group for single people to meet and make new friends generally 50+ age group.

Tel/text: Ian 07900 890583 for info Web: sapphiresocialsinglesclub. co.uk

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Pic-n-Mix Social Group 10.30am-12pm Letchworth Library

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

What's On

WHAT'S ON IN MAY 7 MAY

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

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 9 MAY

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

Meets second Monday of the month. Speaker Evening - Sandie Lush ‘Baltimore Quilts’. Joint meeting with Mimram. (Baldock).

10 MAY

Lego Club 3.30-4.30pm. Baldock Library

Second Tuesday of the month.

Suitable for children aged 5 to 12 years old. Places are limited so please book at the library.

13 MAY

Unicorn Ceilidh Doors open 7.30pm. St Mary’s Church Hall, Church Street, Baldock

With Frog on a Bike, caller Andy Rouse and Granta Blue Morris in the interval spot. Ceilidh dances are great fun, easy to learn - and addictive! Book online.

Tel: Alan Creamer 07946 439095 Web: www.unicornceilidhs.org.uk 14 MAY

Weston Concerts. 7.30pm St Nicholas Church, Stevenage

Tickets £18, under 25s £5 Ben Goldscheider (horn) and Richard Uttley (piano).

Tickets: www.trybooking.co.uk/BLIU W: www.westonmusicsociety.org.uk 16 MAY

Stevenage RSPB Local Group Coach Trip to Minsmere. 7.20am

Minsmere is the RSPB’s flagship reserve on the Suffolk coast which boasts in excess of 100 breeding species of birds plus mammals, butterflies and orchids.

Tel: Graham Beevor 01438 232055

19 MAY

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.

Email: hfcinfo885@googlemail.com 21 MAY

Exhibition Celebrating 30 years of Icknield Quilters. 10am-4pm Letchworth Free Church, Norton Road South, Letchworth Garden City

Entry £3.50. Exhibition of members’ work, quilt supplies by The Crafty Quilter, sales table, pre-loved books and equipment, raffle and light refreshments. Raffle supporting two local charities- Stand by Me and Feed Up Warm Up. 21 & 22 MAY

Swiss Garden Plant Fair. 10am-5pm Swiss Garden, Shuttleworth

Browse a range of plants grown by the in-house garden team and volunteers during your visit to Shuttleworth on this late spring weekend. Admission charge may apply.

26 MAY

Stevenage RSPB Local Group Trip to Waterford Heath. Meet 9.30am

Morning car trip to Waterford Heath in the Beane valley with its heathland and former quarry.

Meet in the car park at the top of Vicarage Lane, postcode SG14 3LU. Grid ref 166/TL 318150. Leader Graham Beevor. Tel: 01438 232055 27 MAY

Concert by Bingham String Quartet 8pm Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin

Tickets £20, under 27s free, livestream tickets £10, under 27s free The Bingham String Quartet has gained an international reputation for its interpretation of the classical repertoire. Pre-concert dining available.

Web: https://benslowmusic.org

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29 MAY

Afternoon Tea 4pm Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin

£19.95pp/£24.95pp with a glass of Prosecco. Enjoy afternoon tea at Benslow Music complemented with live music. Booking required.

Tel: 01462 459446 Web: https://benslowmusic.org 5 JUNE

Jubilee Flying Circus Air Show 9.30am-5pm. Shuttleworth, Old Warden Park, Biggleswade

From the moment you arrive, circus performers on the ground and in the air will leave you with wide eyes and open mouths, whilst a circus skills workshop will teach your children the ropes.

Web: www.shuttleworth.org/ jubileeflyingcircus UNTIL 2 OCTOBER

Body & Soul Exhibition The Higgins, Bedford

Free entry. Body & Soul is a new exhibition exploring how women have been represented in art over the past two centuries.

Web: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk EVERY WEEKDAY

Clifton Walking Group

Meets on weekdays at 8.30am and in the afternoon for an hour. A friendly bunch of people of various ages and abilities. Monthly weekend walk of 6-8 miles. Group meets for coffee once a month and holds other social events.

Tel: Suzanne I’ons 07933 709006 Email: ionssuzanne@gmail.com Letchworth Arts & Leisure Group

Annual membership £10 per household. Many groups and activities including wine appreciation, film, gardening, theatre, art design, books, discussions, games, sports, outings, walking and much, much more. New groups are starting all the time.

Online talks every month. Nonmembers can try activities before joining.

Web: LALG.org.uk

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H&M Rubbish Clearance Est. 10 years in Hitchin.

Support local business Call us for a free no obligation quote House and Garden Clearance Helping to keep Hertfordshire Cleaner and Greener Waste carrier no. CBDU172513 We have Public Liability Insurance

Call 01462 431284 or 07557 527416 / 07368 374811 H & M Clearance @clearance_h

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Crossword Puzzle Solution from our April Edition Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Jane Grumball from Great Ashby, Stevenage

April’s Codeword and Sudoku Solutions

Easy

Hard

Advertising in The Villager is easy.

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The Villager Prize Crossword Prize

£25

Across 1 Stove (4) 3 Confessed (8) 9 Remove (7) 10 Tall structure (5) 11 Current (12) 14 Married woman (3) 16 Smooth surface (5) 17 Perceive (3) 18 Clarifications (12) 21 Fine porcelain (5) 22 Passion (7) 23 Calamity (8) 24 Small room (4)

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

16th May 2022 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP The winner will be drawn at random from the correct completed entries.

Down 1 Conquer (8) 2 Devoured (5) 4 Small spot (3) 5 Road junction (12) 6 Defeats (7) 7 Terrible (4) 8 Butterfly larva (12) 12 Simple (5) 13 Private (8) 15 A swinging time? (7) 19 Small fruit (5) 20 Not alkali (4) 22 Female sheep (3)

Name:

Address:

42



Tel:

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Shire Roofing

Quality above all

Family Run Roof Design and Costing • Slate and Tiled Roofing • Specialist Lead Roofing Installations Mineral Felt & GRP Roofing • Maintenance and Repairs • Property Maintenance

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 07778 634900 or email: russ@shireroofing.com

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RELIABLE ROOFING COMPANY 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 PROPRIETOR R.S. CROW F.I.O.R. • FREE ESTIMATES

01767 312914 • 01707 272532 07973 844240 www.reliableroofing-herts.co.uk reliableroofing@btinternet.com

MUSCLE

& MOTOR Jumbo van with up to 3 men.

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

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

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Books

The Book Nook Stories of bravery, determination and resilience…

Nightcrawling Leila Mottley

17-year-old Kiara’s mother is in prison and her brother looks set to follow. When their landlord puts the rent up, it’s down to Kiara to find the extra money. With no qualifications or work experience to her name, she has little choice other than prostitution. And when she’s picked up by the police, things look even bleaker. A harrowing book, but one with glimpses of light and hope, Nightcrawling is a masterpiece.

Plumbing

Gary’s Plumbing Over 40 years experience No job too small!

Please call Gary on

07530 728091 Oil and Solid Fuel Engineer

Bravely Being Me Sam Langley-Swain, Nicci Martin

Bravely Being Me celebrates the stories of people who have been adopted, including chef Lorraine Pascale, presenter Toby Anstis and comedian Dara Ó Briain.

It’s aimed at children who have been adopted and each story is beautifully illustrated. Bravely Being Me is only available from www.adoptionuk.org and all proceeds help to support the Adoption UK charity.

Wheelie Bin Cleaning

The Return of Faraz Ali Aamina Ahmad

As a small boy, Faraz was ripped from his home in Lahore’s red-light district.

Many years later, he’s sent back to cover up the murder of a young girl. Corruption is rife and the life of a prostitute is seen as having little value, but Faraz can’t bring himself to obey orders. Meanwhile, Faraz’s sister is trying to escape their birthplace with her young daughter before it’s too late. An epic, historically rich story that will sweep you away.

By Kate Duggan 46

From just £35.00 per month plus VAT

Call Nigel on 01767 261122 for more information

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USEFUL NUMBERS

VILLAGER The

and Town

Life

Alcoholics Anonymous....................... 0845 769 7555 Al-Anon family Groups....................... 0800 008 6811 Anglian Water.................................... 08457 145 145 Bedford Hospital................................. 01234 355122 Lister Hospital..................................... 01438 314333 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

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

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

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.....................................845 30 30 900

For more information or to reserve your space please contact Nigel on:

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