VILLAGER The and Town Life Bringing Local Business to Local People Every Month in Hitchin, Great and Little Wymondley, St Ippolyts, Charlton and surrounding areas LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS Your FREE copy Issue 52 - 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... Publishers Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 261122 Email:www.villagermag.comnigel@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. Editorial - Solange Hando, Trevor Langley, Tom Hancock, Jennie Billings, Martin Lewis, Caroline Knight, Rachael Leverton, Alan Titchmarsh, RSPCA and Kate Duggan Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel 01767 nigel@villagermag.com261122 Photography - kwasny221 Design and Artwork - Design 9 • Tel 07762 969460 Get your business off to a flying start this year Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £25.00 +VAT per month Five reasons to visit Cape Verde ....................................... 4 Wines from austria: A Good Choice .................................. 8 Bedfordshire Walking Festival ....................................... 10 Is it time to rediscover squash? ...................................... 12 Seasonal Recipe: Fish Stew............................................ 14 Crying the Mare and other harvest traditions................ 17 Transitional Weather Dressing ....................................... 18 Free Money ................................................................... 20 Money on my mind ....................................................... 23 Make September a sumptuous celebration ................... 26 Pruning Power .............................................................. 29 Green Fingers ................................................................ 31 RSPCA - Have you ever considered fostering? ................ 32 Puzzle Page ................................................................... 36 What’s On in September ................................................ 38 The Villager Prize Crossword .......................................... 42 Book Review - Taking the Plunge .................................. 45 Useful Numbers............................................................. 47 Is it time to rediscover squash? 12 Make September a Sumptuous Celebration 26
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
Five
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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more?
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.
Want
Cape
By Solange Hando
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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.
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts6 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.
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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
Importer: Awin Barratt Siegel Wine Agencies.
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.
Food & Drink
Wines from Austria: A Good Choice
Trevor
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.
As always,
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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
10th to 18th September inclusive
Bedfordshire Walking Festival
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.
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’re a beginner, you’ll want to start with a black ball that has a blue dot (or a blue ball if you’re playing squash 57). It’s best to visit a sports shop to try a few racquets rather than just ordering online, as they come in different sizes.
Ready for more of a challenge? Why not join a squash club? You’ll benefit from professional coaching, get the chance to compete and meet new people. Ask your local leisure centre for details or visit the website of your national squash federation.
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts12 Sport Is it time to rediscover squash?
If the thought of squash conjures up images of 90s businessmen, sweatbands and white shorts, it might be time to take another look. Squash has had a bit of an image overhaul over the last few years. It’s now one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. Highenergy, high-impact and high-adrenaline, squash has it all. It burns up to 800 calories an hour, gives you a full body workout, improves flexibility and tones your muscles. Fancy giving it a go? Here’s what you need to know… How to learn Never played squash before? Most leisure centres offer a variety of courses, including ones for complete beginners, women-only sessions and oneto-one lessons.
If you want to further develop your skills, try squash 101 (see below). Where to play Once you’re feeling more confident and have a decent grasp of the rules, you may want to book a squash court to play with a friend. Some leisure centres and gyms only allow members to book a court, but most offer ‘pay and play’ options for around £10 a session. Head to the website of your national squash federation to find your nearest Alternatively,www.ulstersquash.comwww.squashwales.comwww.scottishsquash.orgwww.englandsquash.comcourt:justGoogle ‘find a squash court’. Squash 101 If you struggle to find someone to play squash with, want to commit to playing regularly or fancy something a bit different, check out squash 101. You’ll play squash in a group and be led by an instructor. It’s more sociable than regular squash, and you’ll hone your skills, try different challenges and play against a variety of people. Squash 57 Like the idea of squash but worried you won’t be able to keep up? Try squash 57. Formerly called racquetball, squash 57 uses a larger racquet and a bigger, bouncier ball, which means it’s a lot easier to hit. What you’ll need As squash is played in a court, you’ll need nonmarking trainers. You’ll work up a sweat, so shorts or sports leggings are generally better than jogging bottoms. And you may want to invest in protective goggles to protect your eyes.
Unless you’re taking lessons, you’ll probably need your own ball and racquet, although some leisure centres do rent out racquets and balls for a small extra fee.
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Ingredients 1
4. Discard any of the cleaned mussels that do not close when tapped, or that are damaged or broken. Add the remaining mussels to the pan and cook for 2-4 minutes to heat through. Discard any mussels that remain closed.
sunflower oil 225g carrots, peeled and cut into small pieces 1
5. Pile into a large warm serving bowl, sprinkle over the chopped parsley and serve with lots of crusty bread. tbsp onion, peeled clove peeled x 400g handful of pitted black olives ground pepper skinned cubed fish (cod, coley, garnish
black
white
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Crusty bread, to serve (optional) Fish Stew Seasonal Recipe Serves Preparation4 time 8 minutes Cooking time 15-20 minutes For more seafood and fish recipe inspiration, visit seafish.org Hearty and wholesome, this vibrant fish stew makes the perfect midweek meal
can chopped tomatoes A
garlic,
1 bay leaf Salt and freshly
1. Heat the oil in a saucepan, add the carrots, onion and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes.
and chopped 1
2. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, olives and bay leaf, and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
550g
3. Add the fish cubes and cook for another 8-10 minutes.
and
and thinly sliced 1
pollock, hake) 115g mussels, debearded and cleaned Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, to
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Crying the Mare. And other harvest traditions
‘haerfest.’
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The last strands of the last sheaf were woven into a ‘corn doll,’ which gave the Harvest Spirit somewhere to live over the winter. This was carried in procession and given pride of place at the Harvest Supper.
In the majority of places cutting the last sheaf was seen as an honour but some people were fearful of being held responsible for making the Corn Spirit homeless. In these instances, to prevent being cursed with bad luck groups of reapers would take turns in throwing their sickles at the sheaf. In this way the blame was shared, and the bad luck diluted.
The cutting of the last sheaf was subject to considerable ceremony in most parts of the country. It was known as ‘the mare’ or ‘the neck’ or ‘nack’ and was treated with great reverence. The last sheaf was where the harvest spirit was said to retreat and take refuge. The act of cutting it was known as ‘crying the mare’ or ‘cutting the neck’ and it effectively meant slaying the harvest spirit, so it was taken very seriously.
By Tom Hancock
Time of Year
The word harvest comes from the Anglo-Saxon word for autumn, For our ancestors it represented the culmination of the year’s work, ensuring they would survive the harsh winter. Much folklore is connected to the grain harvest because grain provided the staple diet of most people in the form of bread, porridge, oatcakes, and beer. The labour was carried out by itinerant workers who generally elected one of their number to be the Harvest Lord. He was appointed to negotiate pay and conditions with potential employers.
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?
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) House of 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!
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
Transitional Weather Dressing
18
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts 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. 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.
19To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 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
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.
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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.
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.
Free money
To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 21 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!! • NVQ 3 IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION • ECDL QUALIFICATION • EXPERIENCE IN WORD, EXCEL AND OUTLOOK • EXPERIENCED RECEPTIONIST • EXPERIENCE IN SAGE LINE 50 AND VARIOUS IN HOUSE ACCOUNTS PACKAGES • EXPERIENCE IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS *REASONABLE RATES* TAKE A LOOK AT THE WEBSITE AND GIVE ME A CALL TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS www.helpinghandso ceservices.com Tel: 01767 690075 / 07966 554304 Email: maureen@helpinghandso ceservices.co.uk
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts22 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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Money on my Mind
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.
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.
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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sumptuous
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.
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
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts26 Caroline Gardendesignideas.co.ukKnight: Gardening
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 adverts28 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
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Pruning Power
Pruning is a word which can instil fear into the heart of a novice gardener. I often get asked when to do it; how to do it, and how extensive it should be? Rarely do I get asked WHY do we do it? While a shrub won’t die if it isn’t pruned, it might grow too large for the space, or become straggly, or produce poor quality flowers. So, gardeners prune in order to enhance a plant’s performance; to encour age it to produce better foliage, flowers, or fruit. Pruning forces a plant into ‘growth mode’ as it tries to replace what it has lost. When should we prune?
There are two main pruning seasons: autumn and spring. Shrubs that flower in the winter, spring and early summer generally produce their flowers on old wood, which is any stem that grew the previous year. These shrubs need to be pruned in the autumn. Shrubs that flower in mid-summer or autumn tend to produce their flowers on this season’s growth, which means on stems that were produced this year. These shrubs should be left until spring before There’spruning.no magic or mystery involved: we’re working with the natural inclination of the plant. If the foli age and flowers are produced on new wood, then it makes sense to encourage the plant to produce as much of this as possible. It also makes sense to prune in the spring because any new growth in the autumn would be vulnerable to frost.
Many autumn-pruned plants benefit from ‘the rule of three.’ My grandfather taught me this and it and means that each year, in the autumn, after the shrub has flowered, you prune out one third of the oldest shoots. This encourages new growth the following spring while still allowing the shrub to flower on the old wood. Treated this way, the shrub will be completely rejuvenated every three years but will flower every year. Pruning is best approached with a clear purpose. What is your aim? If a reshape is in order and you’re only partially shortening a stem, always prune to an outward facing bud which encourages a nice, open shape. As I’ve already mentioned, pruned plants will do a lot of growing, which means they’ll expend a lot of energy, hence all pruned plants need a good feed in the spring, before the growing season gets Finally,underway.ifyou do get it completely wrong, don’t panic. Generally, the worst that happens is that the plant looks a bit naff for one season then bounces back the following year. That’s the good thing about plants: they just keep on growing Prune in spring Buddleia, perovskia, dogwood, caryopteris, lavender, roses, fuchsias Prune in autumn Cotinus, forsythia, winter jasmine, philadelphus, spiraea, weigela, deutzia
By Rachael Leverton
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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.
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Have You ConsideredEverFostering?
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.
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?
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.
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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?
Pets
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 33 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
34 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Helping to keep Hertfordshire Cleaner and Greener Waste carrier no. CBDU172513 We have Public Liability Insurance H&M Rubbish Clearance Est. 10 years in Hitchin. Support local business Call us for a free no obligation quote House and Garden Clearance Call 01462 431284 or 07557 527416 / 07368 374811 H & M @clearance_hClearance
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36 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.
37To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 Shire Roofing Quality above all 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.comFamily Run
for Single TheCromwell8.30-10.30pmPeopleBar,SunHotel, Hitchin
5, 12, 19 & 26 SEPTEMBER Monday Painting Group
night. Tel:
6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27 & 30 SEPTEMBER Bridge Club 1pm Howgills, SEPTEMBER 14,
The Signals Museum Open Day RAF10am-4pmHenlow, 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
social
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 38 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
5, 12, 19 & 26 SEPTEMBER
for single people
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
info@stevenagechoral.org.uk Web: www.stevenagechoral.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:
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 1.304pm 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
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,
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.
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
Web:
5, 12, 19 & 26 SEPTEMBER Branch Out Social Club Medium-sized club aged 40 upwards. Meets every Monday Lorna 01438 233657 www.branch-out.org.uk
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and Web:Chausson.https://benslowmusic.org
studying
Masters graduates
20 SEPTEMBER
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
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.
Stevenage
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.
17 SEPTEMBER Weston Concerts 7.30pm Holy Trinity Church, Weston Tickets £20, under 25s £5 Roth Guitar Duo. Emma Smith and Sam Rodwell – both of Royal Northern College, Manchester, under Craig SEPTEMBER RSPB Local Group to Rye Harbour 8.15am this the East Sussex look for departing migrants, coastal and woodland birds. Contact Graham for information. Tel: Graham Beevor 01438 232055 grahambeevor@hotmail.co.uk
coast to
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
coach trip
Visit
www.westonmusicsociety.org.ukwww.trybooking.co.uk/BQFKOgden. 18
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
Email:
popular reserve on
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 39To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122
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. Tel: 01438 236310 Email: trevorstorey54@gmail.com SEPTEMBER Hitchin
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts40 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.
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 41
Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts42 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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Do DavidPurposeHieatt Are you itching to fix something? To fill a gap? To provide a solution that no one else seems to have caught onto yet? You’re in good company. The most successful businesses tend to be those with a tangible purpose. Do Purpose will help you to find your ‘why’, articulate it and bring people on the journey with you.
Books By Kate Duggan 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. To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122
Taking the plunge
Work Better. Live Smarter. Be CourierHappier Want to build a scalable business from the ground up? Then Courier’s new book is worth the £35 investment. Featuring insights from entrepreneurs around the world, it covers everything from raising finance to spotting future opportunities and building resilience. Articles are accompanied with vibrant full-page photographs and hand-drawn images. You won’t be taking it on holiday though – it weighs a ton.. Freelancer Magazine edited by Sophie Cross OK, this one is a magazine, but there’s no way we could leave it out. Each issue is packed with interviews, articles and how-to guides. Whether you’re reading about an award-winning screenwriter, a music teacher or a copywriter, you’ll find yourself turning down every second page to refer to later. An essential resource for any freelancer..
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.
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Plumbing Gary’s Plumbing Over 40 years experience No job too small! Please call Gary on 07530 728091 Wheelie Bin Cleaning 46 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts
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