Potton feb 18 by Villager Mag

VILLAGER The

Issue 138 - February 2018

and Town

Life

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

In this issue Win tickets to see

Phil Beer ‘String Theory’ Classic Films for

Valentine’s Day Win £25 in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People

in Biggleswade, Sandy, Potton, Gamlingay and all surrounding villages 16,000 copies delivered to over 30 towns and villages every month To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

ur Yo EE FRco1py

The Old White Horse • 1 High Street • Biggleswade • SG18 0JE Tel: 01767 314344 www.lolineinteriors.co.uk e: dave@lolineinteriors.co.uk 2

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Inside this issue... 76

How to get a good night’s sleep Forgotten Foods..................................................................................... 4 Wordsearch............................................................................................ 6 Classic Films for Valentine’s.................................................................... 8 Chinese New Year................................................................................. 10 Win Tickets to see Phil Beer.................................................................. 12 Fostering for Adoption Scheme............................................................ 15 Wine: Convenience Matters.................................................................. 16 Beijing Temple of Heaven..................................................................... 20 Simple preparation steps for a trouble-free trip................................... 23 Alternative Ways to Invest in Property.................................................. 25 How to Effortlessly Wear Ultra Violet.................................................... 26 Do you Need a Hearing Test?................................................................ 29 Winter SOS........................................................................................... 30 Safer Internet Day................................................................................ 35 Gadgets your beloved will love............................................................ 39 What to do if your sight or hearing worsens......................................... 41 Real Bread Week.................................................................................. 42 Don’ t leave your clutter to the kids...................................................... 44 How do you like your pancakes............................................................ 47 The Joy of a Greenhouse....................................................................... 48 Rural Ramblings................................................................................... 50

R.A.T.S. Rehoming Appeal.................................................................... 53 Animal Heroes...................................................................................... 55 Ask Alan - Potton Vets.......................................................................... 57 Children’s Page..................................................................................... 59 Honda Civic Type R............................................................................... 61 Slot Cars............................................................................................... 62 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe............................................................... 64 Not your bog-standard kind of sport.................................................... 66 Making STEM fun................................................................................. 69 Caring for an Older Dog........................................................................ 73 What’s On............................................................................................. 74 How to get a Good Night’s Sleep.......................................................... 76 Puzzle Page.......................................................................................... 80 New Brand to put Greensands Country on the Map.............................. 83 Fun Quiz............................................................................................... 85 Prize Crossword.................................................................................... 86 Perfect Pancakes.................................................................................. 88 What Crochet Taught my Son............................................................... 91 Book Review........................................................................................ 92

The joy of a greenhouse

Get your business off to a flying start this year

Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £37.50 +VAT per month Editorial - Catherine Rose, Sarah Davey, Trevor Langley, Solange Hando, Kirstie Timmins, Jennie Billings, Louise Addison, Kate Duggan, Ian McMullan, DeafBlind, Kate McLelland, Rachael Leverton, Geoff Wharton, RSPCA, Potton Vets, James Baggott, Nick Coffer, Ann Haldon, Alison Runham and Kate Duggan

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

Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel 01767 261122 • nigel@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.

Photography: Karandaev and Darren Harbar Design and Artwork Design 9 • Tel 07762 969460 • www.design9marketing.co.uk

Advert Booking and Artwork Deadline: Thursday 8th February for our MARCH edition

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

History

Forgotten Foods In the era of supermarkets, ready meals and worldwide food imports, it is difficult to appreciate a time when people would not only have had to be thrifty with what they ate but creative too, cooking using the ingredients they had available. This month we look at some of the more unusual British dishes that were once common but have now disappeared from our everyday tables. There is no doubt that although many of our staples have remained, the dishes we eat daily have changed drastically over the centuries. Who would now enjoy a bowl of garum? Yet this fermented fish soup was a favourite of the Romans. We tend to think of the medieval era as being typified by banquets overflowing with roast meat and washed down with endless tankards of mead.

In fact, there were many cookery books kept at this time and dishes were often surprisingly complex, served with a great deal of visual wit. Take for example the cockentryce. A capon, or castrated cockerel, was boiled, cut in half and sewn to the rump of a piglet. This was then stuffed and spit-roasted before being ‘gilded’ using egg yolk, saffron and (edible) gold leaf! The cockentryce was by no means unusual as rich and royal households loved nothing better than a chimera - combining the cooked meat of different animals and presenting the whole complete with head, tail and feet! Possibly the closest we get to this kind of combination today is our three-bird roast sometimes enjoyed at Christmas. In those days, if you were offered custarde, you couldn’t assume it was the stuff we regularly pour over our apple pie. Custarde was a type of 15th century quiche made with eggs, veal and prunes. Medieval foodies loved nothing better than to combine fruit with their meat dishes. For example, fish sausage made from a mixture of fish, currants, cloves, mace and salt, all squeezed into the traditional sausage skin of an animal intestine, was another favourite. Puddings were equally creative, and some had wonderfully poetic names like ‘a dish of snow’ which was a concoction of whipped egg whites and apple purée. A Tudor recipe from The Proper Newe Booke of Cookerye describes how to make ‘Egges in Moneshyne’ (eggs in moonlight) by poaching them in a syrup of rose water and sugar to resemble moons. Some of the dishes that were routinely served would probably not be considered very palatable today. For example, in the 1700s, cows’ udder was a norm, either roasted or boiled with spices and served cold in slices coated with sugar or ‘white bread crum’. In his famous diary, it

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

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

is mentioned as being much enjoyed by Samuel Pepys. No native animal was spared in the days before intensive farming limited our regular choice to poultry, lamb, beef or pork. You would not go into a supermarket today and scour the meat counter for a cut of snake, but this was also a popular dish in the sixteenth century. Published in 1736, Richard Bradley’s The Country Housewife and Lady’s Director in the Management of a House and the Delights and Profits of a Farm (a title which is a mouthful in itself ) contains a recipe for boiled vipers which it states should have their heads cut off while still alive, the body cut into chunks and boiled along with their hearts. In rural areas, both badger and hedgehog were eaten. Considered a delicacy, Bradley’s cookery book has instructions on how to prepare cooked badger by cutting off its ‘gammons’ (hind legs), stripping them and then soaking them in brine for a week to ten days, after which they should be boiled for four or five hours and finally roasted. The hedgehog was a Romany favourite and would have been widely eaten in mid-Bedfordshire where there was once a thriving Romany gypsy population. The hedgehog would be caught, packed in clay and baked on the open fire. Once

the clay had hardened it was broken away, which took the skin and spines with it, to uncover a meat said to look and taste like roast pork (hence the ‘hog’ perhaps). Beestings (or beastings) pudding was another rural dish that was certainly eaten in this area and one that, post pasteurisation, most people will never have heard of. A milk pudding, it was made at home from the rich colostrum of a cow that had recently given birth. The Victorians were adept at using every part of a slaughtered animal for food, from the brains to the hooves. Calves’ ears would be shaved, boiled and fried; offal made into various patés; and calves’ feet boiled to extract the natural gelatine, which was then used to make jelly and preserve foods in aspic. Bone marrow would not be wasted either and bones were stewed to make broth and gravy. We could probably learn a lot from the Victorians in managing our food wastage today. And although there are undoubtedly still many people who have a passion for creative cooking, perhaps generations of future centuries will look back on our love of Super Noodles and tinned baked beans with both horror and amusement.

By Catherine Rose

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

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

Time of Year

By Sarah Davey

Classic Films for Valentine’s You could go out for an expensive meal, or buy a bunch of overpriced red roses…or you could curl up with a glass of wine in front of a classic romantic film. There’s something for everyone, whether coupled-up or happily single. Annie Hall – This was probably the father of all romantic comedies. Alvy (Allen) is a cynical pessimist while Annie (Diane Keaton) is a ditsy, clumsy talented singer and photographer. If you’ve never seen it, don’t expect a neat ending (this is Woody Allen) but it showcases love in all its messy absurdness, and is sharp, funny and never cheesy. Ghost – This was 1990’s second highest grossing movie (Home Alone came out top). Patrick Swayze plays Sam, murdered in the opening scenes. His spirit tries to warn his grieving lover (Demi Moore) that her life too is in danger. To do this he enlists the help of a reluctant psychic played by Whoopie Goldberg. The result is by turns tender, funny, and bittersweet. You will never hear Unchained Melody again without shedding a tear. Pretty Woman – This is rather cheesy but has survived the test of time (mostly). It’s a Cinderella story really as Vivian (played by Julie Roberts), a prostitute with a heart of gold, is hired by a businessman (Richard Gere) as an escort and turns his life upside down. As Good as It Gets – No cheese here, just dry wit

and snarky humour, delivered perfectly by Jack Nicholson playing Melvin Udall, a misanthropic author with OCD who falls for Carol (Helen Hunt), a waitress who can’t stand him. It’s a story of redemption. Moonstruck – If you like your romances complex then this is the film for you. Italian-American widow Loretta (played by Cher) accepts a marriage proposal from her doltish boyfriend, Johnny, but then finds herself falling for his younger brother, Ronny (Nick Cage). She resists, but Ronny blames his brother for the accident in which he lost his hand and has no scruples about pursuing her in Johnny’s absence. As Loretta falls further in love she learns that she’s not the only one in her family with a secret romance. Cher is a surprisingly good actor and the chemistry between the leads is great. The Wedding Singer – This engaging film is actually a parody of all things eighties. But the leads play their roles sincerely and that’s what makes this work. Robbie (Adam Sandler sporting a fabulous mullet) is a singer, while Julia (Drew Barrymore) is a waitress. They are both in relationships with the wrong people but fortune intervenes to help them discover each other. This is pure romantic cheese, but it’s top quality cheese so serve with only the best crackers.

Happy Valentine’s Day

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

MAking LifE EASiER | WE SELL | WE REpAiR | WE CARE

COMFORT HOMECARE Mobility Superstore

SEE OUR WAV CARS IN THE MOTOR SECTION

from

£3495 LOW RATE FINANCE AVAILABLE

* PART EXCHANGE WELCOME * EXCLUSIVE TO COMFORT HOMECARE

RISE & RECLINE CHAIRS STOCk CLEARANCE

SCOOTA CAR £5995 • Remote Central Locking • Reversing Camera • parking Sensors • phone Charger • Heating • Roll Down Windows • Window Wipers • Headlights

OVER 25 On DiSpLAY MADE TO MEASURE SERViCE AVAiLABLE

from

£495

WHEELCHAIRS BOOT SCOOTER

ELECTRIC BEDS

£495

Wheelchair & Scooter Adapted Cars 20 Now in Stock

£395

from

£11.50 pER WEEk

STAY WARM & DRY THIS WINTER SCOOTER CANOPY FROM

SpECiAL OffER

LEASE YOUR SCOOTER fROM AS LiTTLE AS

from £99

SALE 8MPH SCOOTER FROM

3YRS gUARAnTEE

£595

£495

STAIRLIFTS Bedfordshire’s

leading mobility specialist.

from £950 fitted

We also stock one of the Largest and most comprehensive Range of Bathroom & kitchen aids, Cosyfeet Shoes, Daily living aids.

We lead others follow!

OVER 40 SCOOTERS On DiSpLAY in OUR SHEffORD SUpERSTORE 3 years guarantee on all new mobility Scooters

Large selection of used scooters from £250 with guarantee free delivery and set up*

5B & 5C St francis Way, Shefford, Bedfordshire, Sg17 5DZ. www.comforthomecare.co.uk 01462 811211 www.comfortwavs.co.uk Opening Hours Monday – friday 9.00am – 5.00pm Saturday 9.00am – 4.00pm *Some of the advertised scooters may already be sold, we reserve the right to change any offer without notice, some scooters advertised may be ex-demo, lightly used (full description available on request) ex lease hire scooters, bankrupt stock or part exchanges, a minimum or 3 months guarantee applied to all used scooters and 3 years on all new scooters.

Off ROAD pARking RigHT OUTSiDE THE SHOWROOM ©LW

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

Time of Year

Chinese New Year 16th February

By Sarah Davey 2018 is the Chinese Year of the Dog. Dog is the symbol of loyalty and honesty. People born in the Year of the Dog are said to be honest, friendly, faithful, loyal, smart, straightforward, and have a strong sense of responsibility. There are twelve signs of the Chinese Zodiac: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and boar. Here is the folk tale behind them. Long ago in China the Emperor decided to invent a way to measure time. On his birthday he gathered all the animals by a great river and told them that there would be a swimming race. The first twelve animals to cross the fast-flowing river would be declared the winners and each would be named one of the twelve signs of the zodiac. The animals lined up along the river bank. The rat and the cat were best friends and they were worried because they were poor swimmers. So they asked the ox if he would carry them across and the kind ox agreed. He told the cat and the rat to climb on to his back then carried them across the river. They were excited to see that he was leading the race. But before he reached the bank the rat pushed the cat into the water so he could jump on to the ox’s head and leap to the bank claiming first place.

The Emperor did not see the rat’s dirty trick so named him the first sign of the zodiac. The poor ox was tricked into second place. The tiger wasn’t a natural swimmer but fought the current all the way across the river to arrive third. The emperor was so impressed he named the tiger the third sign. The rabbit knew he couldn’t beat the river so hopped across on some stepping stones, then jumped on to a log which carried him downstream until he was close enough to jump ashore. ‘Bravo!’ shouted the emperor, ‘I shall call the fourth sign after you.’ Then a dragon swooped down to the shore. ‘Why didn’t you win the race when you can fly?’ asked the emperor. ‘First I needed to make some rain because the people needed water for their crops. Then I saw a little rabbit sitting on a log in the river so I blew him to shore.’ ‘That is kind,’ said the emperor. ‘You are a worthy winner of the fifth sign.’ He heard the sound of horse hooves. ‘Ah the sixth sign,’ said the emperor, but then a snake, which had wrapped itself around one of the horse’s legs wriggled out ahead and the horse jumped back. So the snake was named the sixth sign and the horse had to be satisfied with seventh. Then a raft arrived at the bank and a goat, a monkey and rooster climbed ashore. They explained how the rooster had found the raft, the monkey and goat had helped clear the weeds and then the goat and monkey had pushed the raft to shore. The emperor was very pleased at their co-operation and named the goat the eighth, the monkey the ninth, and the rooster the tenth sign of the zodiac. The dog arrived in eleventh place in spite of being one of the strongest swimmers. He said he had paused to take a bath because the river was so clean. The last animal to arrive was the boar. He had stopped for a snack then fell asleep. ‘You have still done well,’ said the emperor, ‘The final sign of the zodiac will be named after you. But do you remember the poor cat? By the time he had managed to climb ashore, soaked and shivering he had missed his chance of being a winner. This made him very angry and is the reason why cats have hated rats and try to kill them ever since!

Happy Chinese New Year

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

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

COMPETITION Win 2 tickets

to see Phil Beer ‘String Theory’ 2018 Tour The Junction in Cambridge on Thursday 15th February

PHIL BEER COMPETITION ENTRY Name:



2018 looks set to be a different, yet very special year for Phil as he announces his solo tour ‘String Theory’ in February and March. The tour will feature material old and new, and showcase his exceptional skill on all-things-stringed. With the return of ‘Folkboat’ this summer, there are limited chances to catch Phil in 2018, so grab your tickets while you can! When a musician’s CV drops names like Mike Oldfield, the Rolling Stones and Steve Harley, you know you’re dealing with a man at the top of his game. Phil Beer is one-half of the multi-award-winning acoustic folk and roots powerhouse Show of Hands, and he’s also in demand in his own right as a captivating solo performer. So, what does a man as talented as Phil Beer do when he’s not selling out the Royal Albert Hall with Show of Hands? He embarks on an eagerly awaited solo tour, visiting a string of carefully selected venues throughout the UK. He’ll be delivering his unique recipe of rich vocals and flawless musicianship across a range of stringed instruments (slide, Spanish and tenor guitar, mandocello, viola, mandolin and South American Cuatro). Alongside some Show of Hands classics, Phil will deliver his signature interpretation of much-loved folk and rock songs alongside a wealth of brand-new material, and there’ll be the odd laugh thrown in for good measure. Phil says, “2017 was such a busy year with the Albert Hall show, festivals and band tours. This year I’m looking forward to something a bit different. There’s something about a solo tour which makes me feel really connected with the audience. I’m also planning the release of a very special 8-disc boxset and am looking forward to sharing new material from that.” Following the tour, Phil will be focusing on ‘Folkboat’: a project which brilliantly combines his two greatest passions – music and sailing. Then in September he’ll return to the stage as Show of Hands prepare for a busy autumn. “A Phil Beer gig is one spent in the company of a true craftsman, a master musician and consummate performer” Spiral Earth. Simply send your entry by 12th February 2018 to: Phil Beer Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Winner will be drawn ramdomly.

Address: Tel: 12

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Is your conservatory too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer? Nu-Look’s conservatory roof conversions can give you back your perfect living space, regardless of the weather. Nu-Look Conservatory Roof Solutions can solve these problems with low cost conservatory roof conversion systems that will give you back the room and space you wanted in the ﬁrst place We have over 40 years combined experience in the conservatory and rooﬁng business. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do and we pride ourselves on the quality of workmanship and service that we provide.

For more information or for your free quotation simply call us or complete the form on our website. www.nulookroof.co.uk

t: 01480 504007 e: info@nulookroof.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Local News

Local family supported Fostering for Adoption scheme and have never looked back

Sarah and Neil felt Fostering for Adoption was right for them despite the uncertainties they faced. “We were aware the baby might be returned to their birth family and we knew we would be sad if this happened. But right from the start we felt really positive about Fostering for Adoption because we feel it is the right thing for the babies and children involved, as they do not have to move often. Paul was 36 hours old when we collected him from hospital. At this stage, we were his foster carers and attended regular contact visits with his birth parents. I would think to myself, ‘They’re his parents. I’m helping with the baby while they’re sorting themselves out’. We are pleased that we had the chance to meet his birth parents and see how much they loved him. As he grows up we can give her a much clearer picture of them because we met them ourselves. Paul is now six months old and we couldn’t be happier that he is a permanent member of our family.”

There was one moment, when Paul wasn’t sleeping and we were lying on the bed and I was pretending to sleep to try and get him off. He reached out and touched my face. And I thought, “Who are you kidding, you love this baby so much”. In some cases children are placed with families who can foster them while the court decides whether they can be returned to their birth families or whether they should be adopted. If they cannot return home they will then stay with their foster to adopt family which means that they will benefit from continuity of care. To find out more visit www.coramcambridgeshireadoption.org.uk or call us on 0300 123 1093. We are looking forward to hearing from you.

A chance to play again “Since adopting Amy and Jason our home has become a much more exciting place. There’s been a farm in the kitchen, a fairy castle in the living room and pirate ships have captured the bathroom! I wouldn’t change it for the world.” We find forever families for children who need permanent, loving homes. If you think you’ve got what it takes to adopt a child or siblings, we’d love to hear from you… Visit www.coramcambridgeshireadoption.org.uk or call 0300 123 1093 today.

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

Food and Drink

Wine:

Convenience Matters Convenience stores have to be - well, convenient. Spar has several thousand, spread over 40+ countries and was founded during 1932. Communities matter to Spar and, when planning these stores, considerations include location, opening times and stock, etc. Spar not only provides essential daily needs, such as food, including fresh fruit and vegetables, as I found out, but numerous items, required frequently, have a place in the stores, along with offers and other services, also. Whether an electrical socket extension lead, dog food or anti-bacterial cat litter, to plugs and devices for modern technology are required, Spar has stocks of many, many readily available supplies. The stores and Spar’s own-brand ranges have gained a good number of awards and constantly continue to do so. I searched for easy-drinking, fresh, smooth and elegant wines, of very good quality and value. Licensed Spar stores have something for all tastes and palates, having long-term, award-winning suppliers of wines. The single grape variety, ‘Letter Press’-labelled wines, I found to be excellent and very able to accompany numerous dishes of cuisine or to be enjoyed on their own, pleasing the wine lover that prefers a particular style and /or grape variety. Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc are always very popular. These pair with fish dishes, seafoods and white meats, wonderfully. Pinot Grigio is often chosen and is really great and satisfying. Tempranillo is a regular favourite and Pinot Noir, plus Merlot are other red wines, often selected. These are impressive accompaniments to red meats, etc. Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Shiraz add fabulous, further choices, of reds. Medium and full-bodied, and selected on many occasions, these wines will not disappoint. Garnacha is a powerful red and has numerous connoisseurs and wine lovers choosing this, a lot. All have excellent fruit bouquets, plus splendid mouthfeels and palate sensations. If sparkling wines are a favourite, then Spar’s champagne and prosecco choices will most definitely satisfy, adding an extra ‘something’ to a dining occasion or event. These are just some of the wines available within the Spar ranges. I found it most worthwhile checking out my local Spar shop. You could be surprised, too.

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

NEW FOR 2018

KNOW YOUR C

CMY

FAVOURITE BURGER?

THINK AGAIN! NOW WITH EVEN MORE CHOICE - 11 BURGERS.

BEEF | CHICKEN | PORK | VEGGIE | FISH

FULL BURGER MENU ONLINE AT WWW.COACHHOUSEPOTTON.CO.UK EVERY TUESDAY

STARTING FROM

6-9PM Â£12 01767 260221

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

BETTER LATTE THAN NEVER GREAT COFFEE DIRECT TO YOUR WORKPLACE

Providing great espresso coffee to people at their place of work, and available for Weekend Events, residents of St Neots and surrounding areas can now experience great tasting coffee as the world’s largest mobile coffee company, Cafe2U, has launched with Charlie Fox and his Red Cafe2U Van. “I provide the highest quality espresso coffee, hot chocolate, premium teas and snacks to people in locations where they might not normally be able to get them. Customers know my routes and when I will be stopping by, so they can get at least one great cup of coffee each day.” Charlie is also available for Event Bookings at weekends. The Cafe2U offer is a popular addition to any type of outdoor function – sporting, trade days, fairs and many other events where a premium style coffee offer will add to the enjoyment of customers. You can contact Charlie if you want him to visit your place of work during his Cafe2U round or to discuss an Event Booking at stneots@uk.cafe2u.biz or via telephone on 07549 516 274 Further information can also be found at www.cafe2u.co.uk, 0113 2320118.

18Café2U HP advert.indd

12/01/2018 15:25 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Showroom

Open 6 days a week furniture, china, glass, silver & paintings

I believe in keeping an open mind 1 Hampshire Buildings, School Lane, Colmworth MK44 2JZ www.williamsantiques.co.uk

01234 378866

Open Morning Wednesday 7th March, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust

A great place to do business The Eco Hub in Gamlingay is a modern, sustainable community building ideal for meetings, conferences and training days. Our Kier Suite is a light and airy self contained business space with easy disabled access and free parking.

Day rate of £28 per person inc. lunch

• Fast, free wi-fi • Breakout space for training activities • Capacity for 2 – 50 delegates • Support staff on site • Easy access to A1/A14/Cambridge/Bedford • Full IT & AV facilities • Fresh buffet lunches available We offer a professional service with a friendly atmosphere.

manager@gamlingayecohub.org.uk | 01767 651226 Stocks Lane, Gamlingay, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 3JR

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

Travel

By Solange Hando

Beijing Temple of Heaven All glistening blue and gold, the magnificent Temple of Heaven rises, almost defiantly, in modern Beijing, no longer a place of worship but still recalling the religious faith of the great emperors. It was built in the early 15th century by Emperor Yongle, at the same time as the Forbidden City but much larger to befit a celestial abode. Come the winter solstice, the Emperor, or ‘Son of Heaven’, would venture out of his secluded palace and make his way to the temple in a most splendid procession no commoner was allowed to watch. There he prayed for guidance and good harvests, worshipping Heaven in an ancient tradition which continued to blossom for many more centuries. The complex was extended and protected by inner and outer walls. Step through one of the gates marking the compass points and in the cool oasis of ‘Tiantan’, you are greeted by Chinese gardens, pine woods and over 90 buildings sprinkled like magic among white marble steps and balustrades. Yet nothing here is left to chance as symbolism flows everywhere, from the use of numbers - 9 representing the Emperor, to the choice of shapes - circular for heaven, square for the earth, or colours - yellow for the Emperor, blue for the sky. The three main groups are on a north-south axis, starting at the very top with the Temple of Prayer for Good Harvests.

Topped by a triple-eaved umbrella roof, this is a lovely circular structure, made of wood without nails. It was destroyed by lightning in 1889 but rebuilt in the original Ming style. According to Feng Shui experts, it stands on the spot where Heaven meets Earth. Just east of the hall, the Seven Stars recall the Taishan peaks, also dedicated to Heaven worship. From this norther point, a Sacred Way leads to the second group, the Imperial Vault of Heaven where imperial ancestors were invoked during the winter solstice. The surrounding Echo Wall carried prayers from end to end and even today the slightest whisper will travel around and amaze visitors. To the south, you reach the awesome Circular Mound Altar, a five-metre high marble structure which makes full use of the imperial number, with 81 (9x9) stones on the 9th ring. Balustrades were designed to amplify the sound from the upper terrace, while in the centre the ‘Heart of Heaven’ is a round slate where animals were offered in sacrifice. After the ceremony, the Emperor would retire to the Palace of Abstinence and fast to complete his mediation between Heaven and Earth. His life depended on it. Only bountiful harvests would ensure continued respect from the Court and common people.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

01767 261651 01767 260332

meal se set 5 cour e glass of re with f or agne f m cha p 0.00 just ÂŁ3 on rs per pe

2 Blackbird Street, Potton, Beds, SG19 2LT

Bookings now being taken for Valentines Cool and contemporary surroundings in our fully refurbished restaurant

Come and discover our amazing Indian cuisine with our new exciting Menu

NEW MEN U

Booking advisable to avoid disappointment Take away/ delivery available

Open 12-3pm and 5-10.30pm

www.ritzyindia.co.uk | bookings@ritzyindia.co.uk facebook.com/ritzyindia To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 @ritzyindia.co.uk

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Travel

A few simple steps of preparation ensure a trouble-free trip Taking a few simple steps of preparation before and during your travel overseas can help to ensure a trouble-free trip, let Kirstie from Timmins Travels point out the basic FCO advice for travellers. • Fully research the destination you intend to visit before travelling. It is a good idea to find out the local laws and customs of the relevant country – for more information visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. • Research the health risks of the country you are visiting as soon as possible before travelling – try this website for assistance http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk • Check your passport is valid for you full trip and fill in the emergency contacts. • Don’t take risks with laws aboard or you could end up throw years of your life away in a foreign prison. • Whatever your age or fitness level take out appropriate travel insurance and ensure you are covered for all the activities you intend to do. • If travelling within the European Economic area or Switzerland get a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

• Take enough money with you. • Tell family and friends in the UK where you are going and leave them emergency contact details. • Value your Passport and keep it safe. Make copies of your passport – leave one with friends or family and take another with you, or store it online using a secure data storage site. • For more information visit www.travelaware.campaign.gov.uk. If you have any questions for our resident travel expert call Kirstie on 01767 654890 or email kirstie@timminstravels.co.uk

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

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Finance

Alternative Ways to Invest In Property Although property remains a popular long-term investment, lending restrictions make it difficult for first-time buyers to secure a foothold on the property ladder. Furthermore, the introduction of a buy-tolet stamp duty surcharge, and reduction of mortgage interest tax relief, have made buy-to-let less lucrative. So are there any other options that could be suitable if you’re interested in property investing? Here are a few alternatives that might appeal, but as with any other form of investment, it’s crucial to carry out plenty of research. Property crowdfunding involves investing in property itself, as opposed to peer-to-peer lending where you invest in the mortgages provided to buy-to-let landlords and property developers. So how do these systems work? Property equity crowdfunding Each property is held within its own limited company - you purchase a share of the company and own a small part of the property along with fellow investors. After registering on a property crowdfunding website, you can search for properties of interest and then make the investment online. • You receive a return on your investment via rental payments and also, potentially, capital gains. • You can spread your investment across a number of different properties. • Fees include a fundraising/finder’s fee, along with property management fees. • A share of the profits is also deducted by the crowdfunding platform at the end of each investment term. Peer-to-peer lending Rather than investing in the property itself, you and other investors provide the money for loans and mortgages that buy-to-let landlords and property developers use. • Return on investment comes from interest paid on the loan. • Platforms provide details of any payment defaults by borrowers, so you can make a more

informed decision on whether to lend. • Investments may be made over a shorter term than property crowdfunding, which is important if you don’t want to tie up your money for too long. Direct commercial property funds You can invest in commercial property via unit trusts or open-ended investment companies (OEICs), but you should seek professional advice on the best investments for your particular circumstances. Your money is combined with that of other investors and fund managers decide on the best investments. These could be solely in the UK or internationally, depending on the property fund you’ve chosen, and may be in retail, office or industrial property. • You’ll pay a fee for the fund to be managed. • Capital gains tax and tax on dividends received will need to be taken into account. • You may be able to hold a property fund within a stocks and shares ISA. • You can either pay a monthly amount or a oneoff investment sum. The concept of small investments spread over a diverse property or loan portfolio runs through these options, but what if you do want to purchase an entire property rather than use these ‘hands-off’ alternatives? Furnished holiday lets Buying a property as a furnished holiday let avoids some of the drawbacks of buy-to-let investment. It offers specific tax advantages and can bring a higher overall return than buy-to-let. Holiday let mortgage providers generally require a deposit of 25%-40%. The amount they’ll lend depends on the existing rental income, or the income as estimated by an experienced local holiday letting agent. Furnished holiday lets haven’t been affected by the clampdown on tax relief faced by buy-to-let investors. Although they require more work in terms of regular marketing, they’ve become a popular way to earn money from property.

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

House of Colour

How to Effortlessly Wear Ultra Violet The Colour of 2018

The Pantone Colour Institute announced their colour of 2018 is the gorgeous Ultra Violet - Pantone 18 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3838 but can we all wear this very futuristic colour? Here are some tips on how to do it with style:1. The colour purple has been associated with wealth and royalty for centuries. There are a huge range of purples so everyone can find the right one for them. Autumns and Winters will look gorgeous in ultra violet, but summers and springs need to take care! Springs should try a warmer, lighter violet and summers will look their best in plum and amethyst. 2. A great way to wear violet or purple is with your nail colour or eye liner. The bruised look is not a good one so use a steady hand but brown eyes are always enhanced by

By Jennie Billings jennie.billings@houseofcolour.co.uk www.pantone.com/color-of-the-year-2018

violet liner. For most of us less is more when it comes to violet and purple make up. Violet or purple are amazing colours to create a statement. A pop of purple packs a punch so try a violet or purple bag paired with neutrals from your colour palette. For maximum style points, team your outfit with flats, heel or boots in a violet or purple from your seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s palette to give an exciting pop of colour to your outfit. Create a regal look with a scarf or necklace that combines violet or purple with some of the other accent colours from your colour palette to make you stand out from the crowd. Dare to wear violet in head to toe or in colour block dress. There are plenty of purple and violet coats in the shops right now and watch out for blouses, capri trousers and skirts making an appearance in THE colour of the year this spring or summer.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

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

Air-Co

nditio and fr ned Salon ee WiFi

La Vida

HAIRDRESSING

Professional hairdressing in Biggleswade

We welcome all clients both old and new OPENING HOURS Monday - Closed, Tuesday 9.30am - 5.00pm Wednesday 9.00am - 5.30pm, Thursday 9.00am - 8.00pm Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm, Saturday 8.30am - 4.00pm

Over 15 years of successful hairdressing 1 Station Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8AH Tel: 01767 600510 Web: www.lavidahair.co.uk 28

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Health

Do you need a

Hearing Test? By Louise Addison

Here are five simple ways to tell if it’s time to check your hearing: You often ask people to repeat themselves It sounds as though people around you are mumbling all the time and you find it hard to hear people unless they’re facing you directly. It’s more common to experience hearing loss in the high frequencies so another sign is having trouble understanding women and children who tend to have higher-pitched voices. Your family complains that the TV is too loud If you’re turning up the volume to a point where those around you complain about how loud it is, it might be time to pay attention, especially since listening to excessively loud music can do further damage to your hearing. You hear a ringing or buzzing noise in your ears Tinnitus occurs when you hear sounds like ringing or buzzing noise in your ears when no such sound is present. Sometimes it’s temporary e.g.

after attending a loud concert. But ringing which doesn’t fade away, without any apparent cause is a common first sign of hearing loss. You strain to hear in noisy places You struggle to focus on what people are saying in places with background noise, such as a restaurant or shopping centre. This can make you feel very tired. You miss everyday sounds If people complain you miss their calls or say they have to knock for ages before you answer the door consider it a warning sign, especially if combined with people complaining you have the TV or radio set too loud. Whilst it can be tough to admit your hearing isn’t as good as it used to be, it’s best to take action early on. With the right support and technology, hearing loss doesn’t need to keep you from enjoying all the fun things in life. Book an appointment with your GP or an audiologist today.

Health & Beauty

Winter S.O.S. Beauty goodies to see you through the cold spell.

If your skin is feeling dry and tight at the moment, a sheet mask could be just the ticket. Look for one with hyaluronic acid, which helps skin to hold on to moisture and fight the signs of ageing. The skin689 Bio-Cellulose Hyaluron Face Mask contains hyaluronic acid, along with coconut extract and an amino acid complex to nourish skin. As with all sheet masks, it’s a little fiddly to use, but feels lovely and refreshing when it’s on and the end results are definitely worth it. Softer, more hydrated skin, in just 20 minutes. And at £5.90, it’s an affordable weekend treat. See www.skin689.com An American skincare brand has released the world’s first vegan, plant-based topical collagen formula. Algenist’s serum is designed to replace lost collagen and contains Omega-rich microalgae oil. As with many things, there’s no long-term gain without short-term pain. In my case this meant that I had to contend with several large pimples breaking out in the first few days of using the serum. However, my skin soon got used to it, and did look plumper, smoother and much more refreshed after just a couple of weeks. All in all, I’m impressed. Genius Liquid Collagen is available from www.SpaceNK.com for £90. Central heating and icy winds don’t just wreak havoc on your skin - they can also leave your hair

feeling dry and lacklustre. Faith in Nature’s Seaweed & Citrus Shampoo and Conditioner include natural extracts, such as wild harvested seaweed to ‘feed’ your hair with minerals and antioxidants. As with all Faith in Nature products, they’re free from parabens and harsh ingredients, so very gentle. Suitable for all hair types, they leave your locks feeling healthier, smoother and shinier. £5.35 each from www.faithinnature.co.uk Sore, cracked hands can be a real pain over the colder months. Unfortunately, some hand creams can actually make the situation worse, particularly if they contain artificial perfumes. Dermalex is a specialist skincare range aimed at sufferers of conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. The Hand Irritation Cream can help with dry, cracked skin, itching and other signs of irritation. You’ll also want to look for a gentler hand wash or soap that doesn’t contain sodium lauryl sulphate, which can dry your skin and aggravate skin conditions. From £12.99, www.dermalex.co.uk It may be cold outside, but it won’t be long before it’s time to pack the winter woollies away for a few months. If you’ve been neglecting your nails under warm gloves, now’s the time to treat them to some TLC. Nails Inc Superfood NailKale Base Coat is enriched with kale, aloe vera, lemon, ginseng, pomegranate and grape extracts to nourish and strengthen your nails. Use it on its own for a glossy nude finish, or as a base coat for your favourite coloured polish. £15, www.nailsinc.com

By Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

EMERGENCY DENTURE REPAIRS 1 HOUR SERVICE 01767 651439 07973 141862

REPAIR OR A CLEAN AND POLISH ON YOUR DENTURES BY A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN COLLECTION AND DELIVERY ALSO AVAILABLE

Denture repairs 1/4 page.indd 1

09/09/2016 16:42

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

Local News

Give Time. Change a Life. (It might even be yours!)

It’s great that something as simple as volunteering a little time each week can change a life. In fact, lives. The wonderful thing is, volunteering is incredibly rewarding... it can change your life for the better too! The Herts MS Therapy Centre in Letchworth helps anyone with a long term or neurological condition. This year is our 30th birthday! Since 1988, we’ve helped as many people as we can, in any way we can, providing over 14,800 treatments during 2017. The therapies available at our Centre are designed to fight pain and fatigue and improve quality of lives. Our 30th birthday plans are exciting and ambitious – we need some help to bring them to life! We need help to run more exercise classes for small groups

of people with serious medical conditions or disabilities at our Letchworth Centre ... and in three new locations across Herts and Beds. With your help we could start a class in a town near you! Can you suggest a local venue which would host and/or promote our classes? Could you deliver our leaflets to your local GP surgery? Who can you recommend to offer Pilates, Tai Chi or another exercise and movement class? Or are you interested in taking part in a class like Pilates? We’d love to hear from you! Paul Farenden is one of our volunteers. He says: “I volunteer every Tuesday morning, running two sessions alongside a fellow volunteer. The process is structured, training is given and very clear direction and support provided. If you have the time and want to give something back to your community, please support our Centre.” Can you help us launch specialist exercise classes near you? Please call Claire on 01462 684 214 or email her at make2018great@hmstc.net. Thank you.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

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

Picture Framing

CURTAINS & BLINDS

SPRINGFIELD FURNISHINGS

(formerly in Darkes Lane, Potters Bar)

Nesan Arts

HANDMADE CURTAINS & MADE TO MEASURE BLINDS

Fine Art Picture Framing

SMALL HANDS ON BUSINESS | ESTABLISHED OVER 30 YEARS

• Roman Blinds • Roller Blinds • Vertical Blinds • Wood Venetian Blinds • Venetian Blinds • Conservatory Pleated Roof Blinds • Head Boards / Pelmets

Choose Picture Framing in the comfort of your own home Consultation, collection and delivery included in the service Established 19 years Please call Sue on: 01954 719467 For a no obligation appointment

We come to you!

Call Allen

See ou rw eb s

nesan.arts@btinternet.com www.nesanarts.co.uk

ite

1000’s of samples to view in the comfort of your home.

F R E E QU OTAT ION & DE SIG N

- 07973 706168

Email: springfieldfurnishings@gmail.com www.springfurn.com

l the latest ofe l a for At New Dawn we are rs.

known for our specialist expertise and exciting curtain and blind design ideas.

Our package includes: • Home Selection • Free Measuring and fitting • Friendly and impartial design advice • All blinds supplied meet current child safety regulations

New Dawn is a local, family run business, why not give us a call and be inspired by our ideas? We start with a visit to your home and a chat about your needs. We’ll bring along a comprehensive range of samples in a range of styles, colours and materials. While you are viewing the samples we will take measurements so we can provide you with a written quotation.

We keep up to date with modern technologies so we can create the perfect solution for your home from a simple roller blind through to blinds and curtains for kitchens, living rooms, 01763 243894 bedrooms, bathrooms, conservatories even www.newdawnblinds.co.uk awnings for outside. Whatever your needs, we info@newdawnblinds.co.uk can deliver the ideal result.

34New Dawn blinds 1/2 page.indd

11/10/2016 16:24 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Time of Year

Safer Internet Day By Ian McMullan

Safer Internet Day is now celebrated globally in February each year to promote the safe and positive use of digital technology. The day helps to highlight positive uses of technology and to explore how we create a better and safer online community. This year’s slogan is Create, Connect and Share Respect: A better internet starts with you. Here are some steps we can all take to stay safe online: Create complex passwords - Create strong, unique passwords for all your critical accounts. Corporate hacks are commonplace now. One database breach can reveal tens of thousands of user passwords. If you reuse your passwords, a hacker can take the leaked data from one attack and use it to login to your other accounts. The best advice is to use a password manager to help you create and store strong passwords for all of your accounts. Boost your network security - Now that your logins are safer, make sure that your connections are secure. When you are at home or at work a password-protected router will encrypt your data. When you are out and about you might be tempted to use free, public Wi-Fi. But this is often unsecured, which means it’s relatively easy for a hacker to access your device or information. If you access the internet a lot when you are away from home it’s worth investing in a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN is a piece of software that creates a secure connection over the internet, so you can safely connect from anywhere. Use a firewall - This is an electronic barrier that blocks unauthorized access to your computers and devices. It is often included with comprehensive security software. A firewall ensures that all of the devices connected to your network are secured, including Internet of Things (IoT) devices like smart thermostats and webcams. This is important since many IoT devices aren’t equipped with their own security

measures, giving hackers a vulnerable point of entry to your entire network. Watch what you click - Many of today’s online threats are based on phishing or social engineering, when you are tricked into revealing personal or sensitive information for fraudulent purposes. Spam emails, phony “free” offers, online quizzes all use these tactics to entice you to click on dangerous links or give up your personal information. Share selectively - Be cautious about what you share, particularly when it comes to your identity information. Information could be used to impersonate you, or guess your passwords and logins. Think mobile! - Mobile devices face new risks: dangerous apps and fraudulent links sent by text message. Don’t respond to messages from strangers, and only download apps from official app stores after reading reviews first. Make sure that your security software is enabled on your mobile, just like your computers and other devices.

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

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

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

Weatherley Centre QP advert_ppl.pdf

Biggleswadeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s venue for

ALL occasions Halls to cater for 2 to 300! Weddings & functions | Licensed bar Community meetings | Large car park Dancing & exercise | Childrensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; groups

CMY

Call: 01767 315709 The-Weatherley-Centre Email: theweatherleycentre@gmail.com Eagle Farm Road, next to Stratton Upper School

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

03/10

Technology

Gadgets your beloved will love

How to choose gifts that’ll last much longer than flowers. It’s that time of year again: mountains of chocolate and teddy bears in every shop, toobusy restaurants churning out tenuously-themed Valentines meals, awful romantic comedies at the cinema, supermarkets full of really horrible cards and garages licking their lips in anticipation of panicking guys who forgot to place an Interflora order. Why not show your love for your partner by giving them the gift of gadgets instead? Let’s start with the basics: pinkified, prettified versions of ordinary things such as MP3 players or power tools are a no-no unless your partner genuinely loves pink products, and you should steer well clear of anything that could be misinterpreted no matter how clever it may be. Leave the fitness watch (subtext: you’re fat!), the Wi-Fi scales (you’re fat!) and the cordless vacuum cleaner (I don’t think of you in a sexy way any more!) for another day. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get something practical. Quite the opposite: a thoughtful, well chosen present is much better than something useless with a love heart and

a teddy bear on it. Think noise cancelling headphones for their travels (£159 for a set of BOSE QuietComfort 2, or £59.95 for in-ear ones that won’t give them headphone hair; other manufacturers such as Sony can be even cheaper) or a nicer case for their laptop. Barbour does a particularly luxurious leather one for £249, but there are plenty of options in all kinds of fabrics ranging from the fashionable to the fully functional. Watch out for fake leather, though: “bonded leather” is synthetic leather, aka pleather. If you’re struggling for ideas it’s always worth looking at their existing gadgets to see if they’re worth upgrading or replacing. An old Kindle is a great device, but the newest versions have much sharper screens and much better backlighting. The midrange Paperwhite is currently £109.99, rising to £229 for the top-end Oasis, but Amazon discounts Kindles regularly so it pays to plan ahead and try to nab an early bargain. Just be careful if you’re browsing eBay or other sites for used devices: older Paperwhite models don’t have the same hi-res screen as the 2017 model, so read the specifications carefully. If

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

the gadget itself is still current then accessories can be worth considering: for example NotOnTheHighStreet does some lovely leather Kindle cases for around £23, and iPad cases from as little as £13 to £360 for a personalised leather case that comes with power bank, travel adaptor and a Moleskin notebook. If you think that’s expensive, the RRP is even higher: £450. Once again there’s a huge range of products from various manufacturers at all kinds of prices. Of course, there’s another kind of gadget for the one you love: what used to be described euphemistically as “marital aids”. The Amazon of that market is Britain’s LoveHoney.co.uk, which takes a cheerful and down-toearth approach to a potentially embarrassing subject and provides straightforward advice and reviews from real people. We’re no prudes but we’d offer some well-intentioned advice: don’t order anything if you’re not sure your partner would appreciate the sentiment let alone the product, and maybe leave the most expensive and faintly frightening products for when you’re window shopping together.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Health

What to do if you notice your sight and hearing are getting worse Thousands of people in the UK are living with combined sight and hearing loss. But how can you tell whether you or someone you know has sight and hearing loss and what you should do about it. Christine Hardy, Advocacy, Rights and Awareness Manager at Deafblind UK said: “Early signs of sight and hearing loss are not always as obvious as you think. Sometimes people may leave post unopened or become more hesitant to go out and about. You may also notice they adopt an unusual head position or even have burnt fingers from misuse of the oven or hot water. “It is vitally important to have regular eye tests to check for changes in your sight. These will also detect any eye conditions such as macular degeneration or glaucoma before you notice symptoms yourself. If you are over 60, eye tests are free on the NHS and there are services that can do an NHS sight tests in your own home.

“Someone whose hearing is deteriorating may have difficulty following conversations or become uncomfortable in noisy situations like restaurants and shopping centres. They may struggle to hear women and children and think that other people are mumbling. “If you notice a drop in hearing, visit your GP who may refer you to an audiologist. If you need a hearing test, this will happen in a sound-proofed room where you will be asked to respond to different sounds. From this test the audiologist will determine whether hearing aids will be appropriate.” If you recognise any of these signs in people you know, there are lots of small things you can do to make a big difference to their lives; from adjusting room lighting to using 3D stickers around the house. For more details visit www.deafblind.org.uk or contact Deafblind UK on 01733 358100 or info@deafblind.org.uk.

EBAY COLLECTIONS

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

Local & Reliable

Time of Year

Real Bread Week February 24th – March 3rd It’s the 10th anniversary of Real Bread Week: the annual celebration of local, independent Real Bread bakeries, and home-baked bread. Bread is one of the oldest prepared foods. It dates back to Neolithic times, when lumps of unleavened dough (made without yeast or other raising agents), were placed on hot stones in the embers of a wood fire. Archaeologists have correlated the development of human civilisations with the evolution of what is now regarded as the modern species of bread wheat. Over the centuries bread became synonymous with life. In England bread defined the social hierarchy. The word “Lord” comes from the AngloSaxon hlaford meaning “loaf ward”, the master who supplies food. Bread-making is chemistry-you-can-eat. Our ancestors discovered that ground grain mixed into a rough porridge with water could be transformed into a tasty, moist, puffy, mass that was crisp on the outside, simply by placing it near a fire. It was an extraordinary discovery. These flat breads as they are called are still meal staples in the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. Somewhere along the way we also discovered that if the porridge mixture was left in the open air for a few days it magically began to rise and could then be baked into the most wonderful cloud-like substance, leavened bread.

Although bread has occupied a central role in our lives and diet it hasn’t all been plain sailing. The rise of ultra-refined industrial bread in the middle of the last century led to mass-produced tasteless dough devoid of much nutritional benefit. Then there was the bread boycott led by Dr. Atkins and his low-carb, high protein comrades. But real bread - naturally leavened, long-fermented, and hearth-baked is enjoying a comeback, thanks to bread pioneers in artisan bakeries across the country. They use an array of flours and traditional grains, like emmer and spelt. It’s now possible to buy high quality, beautiful, tasty loaves on many high streets. More of us are making our own bread too. There are bread-making classes and online tutorials. At the most basic level, it’s fairly straightforward to transform flour, water, salt and yeast into a loaf of bread and this is why the Real bread Campaign is keen to get children involved. The joy of nursing their first loaf from raw ingredients to mouthwatering yumminess slathered with butter and jam should not be underestimated. From then on it becomes a highly addictive pastime: fruit loaf, crusty rolls, focaccia…the urge to experiment and perfect the dough takes over. It’s the perfect family activity…and you can eat the results. What could be nicer?

By Louise Addison

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

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

Extensions & newbuilds Design & Planning Approvals Building Regulations Project Management Professional service Fully insured

*REASONABLE RATES*

as featured in Channel 4’s The Best Laid Plans

TAKE A LOOK AT THE WEBSITE AND GIVE ME A CALL TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS

www.rgharchitects.co.uk Tel 01462 790808

www.helpinghandsofficeservices.com Tel: 01767 690075 / 07966 554304 Email: maureenbarrett63@gmail.com

Discover the true value of your home. RGH Architects QP.indd 1

09/01/2018 15:3

For tips on how to present your home and improvements that may enhance its value, call your local property expert to book your free market appraisal.

Biggleswade: 01767 313256 49 High Street, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 0JH email: biggleswade@satchells.co.uk Lettings, commercial property, mortgages and conveyancing arranged.

www.satchells.com

To Satchells advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122 Biggleswade Ad PPSJ11676.indd 1

43 04/08/2017 13:26

Life Begins...

By Kate McLelland

Don’t leave your clutter to the kids! If you have children, you’ve probably thought about what you might leave them when you die. Maybe your home, if you are lucky enough to own a property? Some money? Or perhaps there are much-loved family heirlooms that you’ve planned to share out between them? Most of us are happy to make a will, setting out how we will dispose of these assets, but not enough of us stop to consider what will happen to the rest of our possessions: the bits and pieces we accumulate throughout our lives. Every item, including furniture, clothes, ornaments, framed pictures, souvenirs, books and papers – not to mention boxes of stuff that you’ve been meaning to sort out for years – will need to be picked over and subsequently sold, given away or discarded. Almost inevitably it will be your children who are left to scale this mountain of possessions. As well as organising your funeral and dealing with all the legal and administrative tasks that accompany a death, they will have to spend hours at your property, emptying the contents of cupboards and drawers into black plastic sacks. Whose responsibility is it anyway? When a person dies, a grant of probate is needed for the executor of the will to act on important financial matters, but there is no official framework in place to handle the disposal of household items and possessions – legally known as ‘chattels’ or ‘fittings’. While chattels may have little monetary value, they can nevertheless hold great significance for family members on an emotional level. If two or more family members can’t agree what to do with mum or dad’s possessions, it may

lead to arguments and even to the break up of relationships. How can I cut my clutter? While it’s unreasonable to expect older people to clear out possessions that they still need and value, over time we all accumulate items that we seldom use, or even look at. If that applies to you, start by working systematically through cupboards and drawers, making three piles – things you want to keep, things you can recycle or give to a charity shop, and items you can throw away. Check through your clothes, eliminating anything that hasn’t been worn in the past two years: if you haven’t put it on within that period of time, it’s unlikely you’ll ever wear it again. Do an audit of your furniture. Once you’ve managed to sort through your possessions, you may find that some cupboards and drawers are now half empty. If so, think about combining your remaining possessions in one place so you can eliminate at least one piece of furniture. One way to avoid arguments after your death is to call the family together to discuss how they would like to divide up the pieces that they value. You don’t have to give those things away now – just agree who will receive each item, encouraging family members to take a photo of the pieces they will take when the time comes. As you grow older you may need mobility aids to get around, so you’ll be glad of the extra space you have created through your de-cluttering efforts. You can also be reassured that by taking time to sort through your possessions now, you’ll be saving your family time, effort and heartache in future.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Qualified carer required for my elderly brother living in Potton who has learning disabilities. 2-3 days a week

to assist with daily duties Hours & pay rate negotiable Must have own car - mileage paid

No personal care required. Contact Sian Jackson

07791 773995

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

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Time of Year

How do you like your pancakes? February 13th is Shrove Tuesday and I will be tossing pancakes with the best of them. Usually I am a traditionalist and favour lemon and sugar topping but this year in the interests of research I canvassed my friends for their favourite sweet and savoury pancake fillings, and tried them out. Here are my top seven. Nutty chocolate spread and banana - This tasty filling bulks the pancakes out, and makes the batter go further. Perfect if there are lots of people at your pancake supper. Fresh mango and Greek yoghurt with a splash of Cointreau - Very sophisticated and utterly delicious Fruits of the forest with vanilla ice cream and a splash of Amaretto liqueur - This one was a revelation. The liqueur works brilliantly with the fruit, and the hot pancakes with cold ice cream is a

sublime combination. Clearly I have classy friends! Blueberries and maple syrup – This contribution from an American friend goes well with thick or thin pancakes. She tops hers with bacon, but you can leave that out. If you like. Mushrooms, tomatoes and bacon - for a British brunchstyle pancake, or maybe a

savoury supper. Wilted spinach and Ricotta cheese - Sprinkle with a little fresh nutmeg and this makes a very tasty vegetarian supper. Stewed rhubarb and crème fraîche - You can prepare your rhubarb as tart or sweet as you like. I liked mine tart. The creme fraiche works really well with it. I scraped some vanilla seeds into mine and beat them in before serving. This is officially my new favourite way to eat pancakes.

By Sarah Davey

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

Enjoy

Garden View

The Joy of a

Greenhouse By Rachael Leverton I am an impatient gardener. By February I am always eager to get started and my greenhouse means that I can do just that. A greenhouse means that I don’t fear the weather, I can potter in my garden all year round and I can grow a range of plants that would not survive without protection. Most gardens have room for at least a tiny greenhouse and its well worth trying to incorporate one into your space. Before choosing a greenhouse, check whether your local planning authority places any restrictions in terms of size or position. Usually there are no problems. Ideally a greenhouse should be placed in a bright spot because poor light and heavy shade will mean sickly spindly plants. Buy as big a greenhouse as you can accommodate because I guarantee that no matter how big it seems at first you will fill it. You can make a greenhouse from poles and polythene but it won’t last more than a couple of years and won’t be pretty to look at. Fully glazed aluminium greenhouses are good value, and if you like wood then go for western red cedar, which ages well and lasts a long time. It’s important to have level foundations You don’t have to heat a greenhouse but I like

to because it lets me get an early start in spring, and keeps my tender pot plants alive through the winter. When I had an unheated greenhouse my frost-tender plants rarely survived. I prefer electric heating, which doesn’t smell and doesn’t produce the excessive amounts of water vapour associated with paraffin. Make sure you use a qualified electrician and that all the sockets are rated for outdoor use. Fit a thermostat and the heat will only come on when necessary, making it very economical. At the other end of the year make sure you have ventilation, or your plants will cook. If you can afford it go for the automatic arms which open ventilators if the greenhouse reaches a certain temperature. Also consider blinds to help prevent sun-scorch. I arrange my greenhouse with staging on one side and a soil bed on the other for my tomatoes to grow in, and I’ve attached some guttering and a downpipe to a water butt so I can collect rainwater. It’s my little haven in February; where I plant seeds and imagine what my garden will look like in a three months’ time.

Happy Gardening

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

CMY

Pottons Specialist Welding and Fabricating Company

For further information please call Trevor on Tel: 01767 261845 Mobile: 07941 187689 Email: Gemmaton@hotmail.co.uk Web: www.gemmaton.com

ton for a ll yo Wrought iron work, ur w elding needs made to order, including

ma m e G

• stairs • benches • individual beds • furniture

• • • •

Suppliers of manual and automated gates Security doors and grills Fire escapes All welding projects

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

Gardening & Wildlife

Rural Ramblings Whatever Happened To...? Now that Christmas is over and we have finally managed to get rid of all the paper and packaging and have filled up, yet again, the enormous re-cycling bin kindly provided by the council, my thoughts are drifting towards a technological innovation which was fan fared many years ago. The problem of disposal of our waste from an increasing world population which demands more and more consumer goods will not go away and I think that most people would agree that in order to minimise our impact on the world which we need for survival, we must include measures to counter our negative impact on any new technologies. Every morning when I travel towards Sandy, passing by the RSPB, I see a young lady who is clearly on a mission to help reduce the problem of our wasteful society. I am in total admiration of the fact that she quietly goes about her journey collecting other peoplesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; waste from the roadside. I do not wish to cause embarrassment, but how many of us (me included) can claim to be so environmentally friendly? For me, it is enough to sort out the green bin waste from the black and hopefully not upset the collectors. It seems that Mr. Gove, now the champion of the environmentalists, has been catching up and widening his knowledge of issues relating to pollution by watching some television programmes and has come to the realization that we (the World) have a problem with plastics contamination. We should be doing something about it now! The latest suggestion is to reduce production and therefore consumption of plastic but I would suggest that the removal of the plastic covering from cucumbers is in the right direction but not a particularly effective on a large scale. I return to the innovation which was, at the time, thought to be an ideal solution to the problem of persistent plastics and that was bio-degradable

plastic manufacture where microbes in the environment break down the stuff relatively quickly and therefore it does not accumulate. Unfortunately, I have heard little more about this, but I would have thought that this form of biological control, combined with a re-think about reducing the huge volumes of plastic production together with the continuation of highlighting the problem could help reduce the pollution issue.

By Geoff Wharton

Geoff Wharton Gardening Services Reliable, experienced, well qualified. General and specialist garden work: Jungle clearing, Pruning, Hedge and grass cutting, Regular maintenance, Licensed waste disposal. Full public liability cover. Geoff Wharton - BSC honours Hort.Science Email:geoffwharton@hotmail.com

Tel: 01767 261727

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

GARDEN MACHINERY AND TRAILER CENTRE

 Personal customer service, collection and delivery available.  Assessment of individual requirements.  Full after sales backup and parts service.  NEW Oregon, the world's only unique battery operated, self-sharpening s In stock. chain saw.  Ride-on and pedestrian mowers, chainsaws, strimmers, hedge trimmers, cultivators, estate and equestrian equipment. Trailers - sales, hire, service.  Accessories, oils, Aspen fuel, batteries, spares, security locks for garden/ horticultural machinery and trailers. horticultu

Appointed dealers for:

 Main dealer for Briggs & Stratton, Honda, Kohler, Kawasaki & Mountfield engines.

Honeydon Road, Colmworth, Bedfordshire MK44 2LY

01234 376513 www.bri-ag.co.uk

Open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 12pm

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

SURECLEAN DRIVEWAY AND PATIO CLEANING SPECIALISTS ROOF MOSS REMOVAL AND GUTTER CLEANING We use a revolutionary industrial pressure rotary cleaning system to restore exterior hard surfaces to as new condition.

For further information or to book your advertising space call Nigel on 01767 261122 e-mail: nigel@villagermag.com or visit our website www.villagermag.com

Block Paving, Pathways, Patios Garden Wall and Stone Ornaments Ponds and Pools Also Re-sanding and Sealing Local Company

01767 400127/07870 338074 www.surecleancarpetcleaning.co.uk

VILLAGER The

and Town

Life

GILKS FENCING LTD

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

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

Gilks Fencing

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

01767 650 615

Email:

gilksfencing@hotmail.com

www.gilksfencing.co.uk 52

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Local News

Rehoming Appeal This monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rescue animal looking for their forever home is Annie

Annie has come into us as her owner is in hospital long term and can no longer care for her. She is 5 years old and a very friendly girl who loves to be fussed and she is very playful. She is a very bright and lively cat and is longing for a new home where she can get lots of attention. Annie will make a lovely family pet and companion. If you would like to find out more about Annie, please contact Liz on 01767 681157. Alternatively, please email Philippa at info.rats@gmail.com who will be pleased to forward your enquiry onto the team. View other small mammals, dogs and cats currently in our care for re-homing on our website: www.rats-animalrescue.co.uk or facebook : www.facebook.com/ratscharity

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

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Animal Heroes

Pets

New Year, New You?

Last year, across the country, 129,602 animals were rescued and collected by the RSPCA. The cost of doing this was primarily provided by people like you. Our work relies on an army of wonderful volunteers and supporters. So, if you’re looking for a new focus in 2018, why not get involved? There are many ways you can help, but here are a few simple fundraising ideas to get you started: My Big Walkies – could you walk 10,000 steps a day for a whole month? Join us in October and you can even get your dog involved! You can walk at your own pace, in your own time, and we’ll help you with your fundraising. Run – apply for one of our charity places to run high profile events like the Brighton, Yorkshire or London Marathons – or you can register to run for us at your own pace at a run of your choice! Great Big Picnic – why not host an RSPCA Great Big Picnic and invite your friends and family round to enjoy the weather and have some fun? Cake sale – the key to a great bake sale is to recruit your bakers early and ask them to bring variety to the table. You could even raise the stakes by selecting a winner at the end, Great British Bake Off style! Give something up – we’ve all got that habit or thing that we “couldn’t live without”, so why not put it to the test? Instead of spending the money you normally would on chocolate, coffee or whatever your “thing” is – you could donate it instead – and get people to sponsor you. Or, give something away and donate to our charity shop in Bedford? Raffle – simply charge a fee for tickets and the winners get a prize. You could use unwanted presents as raffle prizes or ask your friends and local businesses if they’re willing to give you prizes. Auction – if you have a collection of interesting

items that you’re willing to let go of, an auction could be perfect. However, if you couldn’t possibly part with your most treasured possessions you could hold a promise auction, where you can auction off your time or skills. Charity game – organise a charity game of your sport of choice such as football, Minecraft or even a Monopoly tournament. Invite friends and family to take part and ask them for a donation per entry. Quiz night – all you need is a suitable venue and then ask your guests to pay to play. Look online for example questions, or if you’re feeling creative you could write your own quiz. Sponsored event – there are countless things that you could do and get sponsored. You could go down the extreme route and ask for sponsorship for things like skydiving. Or you could go down the slightly safer route – like a sponsored silence. The possibilities are endless! Fundraising does wonders for rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming thousands of animals every year. By raising money for us, you’ll join animal lovers from across the nation, determined to stop animal cruelty and neglect. Together, our voice will be stronger and more powerful than ever. This is your chance to feel great, get fit, have fun and be creative. Why not be an animal Hero this year? More information, and fundraising packs, can be found on rspca.org.uk Call 01234 266965 or email donate@ rspcabedsnorth.org.uk with any enquiries.

ANIMAL HEROES is one of a series of articles brought to you by the RSPCA Bedfordshire North Branch www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk

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

Can I go to the Paddocks for my Holiday please?

Paddocks Boarding Cattery Peaceful location. No dogs boarded. Spacious, individual, heated chalets with large covered runs. Inspection welcome. Boarding from ÂŁ7.30/day. Rabbits/guinea pigs also boarded. 64 Meadow Road, Great Gransden

Telephone 01767 677 759 www.catterybedfordshire.co.uk Open all year.

The cattery for caring owners. Comfort and security for your pet. 56

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Ask Alan

I have seen your new clinic van and understand that Potton Vets now does routine home visits – how does this work? Yes! Potton Vets (the only family owned, RCVS accredited, full service vets in the area) will now care for your pets in the comfort of your home. Our mobile clinic is Ideal for: • Pets (or their owners) who dislike visiting a surgery. • Pets who find travel stressful • Pets who are in pain when transporting. • Households with multiple pets. • Chronic illness. • People who just find it more convenient to be seen at home. • End of life care. How does it work: We will see pets needing health checks, vaccinations, normal consultations, treatment and even do some investigation (e.g., blood tests, skin lumps, dental evaluations, etc.) in your home. If more complicated tests or procedures are needed, we can collect

Pets your pet and use the fantastic facilities at Potton Vets. The visit fee starts from £10.00 when arranged two days in advance; all other costs are the same as if you had visited us at Potton Vets, there are no hidden costs. How do I book an appointment? Home visits are available most week days during normal working hours. Please call us on 01767 260 007 to book an appointment, we are happy to answer any questions you may have. Best wishes,

Alan

If you have any questions you would like answered, please email them to villager@pottonvets.co.uk For more information visit

www.pottonvets.co.uk or pop into the clinic in Potton Market Square.

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

Fiddle Daemons Violins, Violas, Cellos, Bass

Contact: Jackie@fiddledaemons.com 01767682693 or 07814970635 Professional repairs, restorations and set ups Quality instruments for sale and hire to suit all ages and experience Part exchanges possible and instruments purchased Free valuations

Children aged between 0 - 5 years

After School Care and Holiday Club for 5 - 12 year olds

• • • • • • • • • •

OFSTED rating - GOOD Qualified Nursery Practitioners A Sing & Sign nursery All staff paediatric first aid trained Freshly prepared meals by our in-house cook Kitchen hygiene rated '5' Fun French lessons for children Yoga for Babies and Toddlers Close to Sandy mainline station and the A1M A loving, home from home Follow us on Facebook

54 High St, Sandy Bedfordshire, SG19 1AJ

T: 01767 689688 E: bigexplorers@outlook.com W: www.miniexplorersdaynursery.co.uk

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

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

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Motoring

Honda Civic Type R In the look-at-me stakes, Honda’s new Civic Type R screams attentionseeker with its trying-too-hard fins, wings and ice-white paintwork. Honda appears to have added needless frippery to its new Type R, though they’ll tell you it’s about aerodynamics and downforce – but does that really matter on the A34? Inside, it’s much more traditional Honda formula. It’s a combination of harder plastics, an infotainment system that isn’t up to the standards of rivals and a seating position you’ll either love or hate. However, this is a machine that’s utterly fabulous on the road. Fast, grippy and with a gearbox that delights, it’s a hot hatch to take the fight to the very best in its class. The large, winged bucket seats are comfortable, and the driving position suits us. When started, the cackle from the exhaust sounds exactly how every hot hatch should. Moving off on smooth asphalt, the Type R feels well set up. The ride is firm but a small amount of jostling is part and parcel of a hot hatch – particularly a fast Honda. Though the Civic Type R feels quick, the real surprise is just how much speed you can carry through corners. The body is 38 per cent stiffer than the car it replaces, and this added rigidity makes itself known almost everywhere.

The turn-in is quick, but the limitedslip differential means that you can fire the R into bends and it’ll just grip. The experience is helped by the car’s seating position, which is now 50mm lower than the older model and completely transforms the entire drive. There’s next to no body roll, and the front two wheels cope admirably with the 316bhp being sent through them. You won’t torque steer either – the steering stays unaffected even when accelerating hard, and this gives you a huge amount of confidence. Arguably, the test location played into the hands of the Type R – the green, rolling hills and mountains of south Wales coupled with tight, technical roads contributed heavily to the hot hatch experience. It’s a match made in driving heaven. However, the Type R has always been slightly tarred by that ‘boy racer’ brush. But this car has real character, something lacking in quite a few others on sale today. Even the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine has its own personality, popping and growling as you push it through the bends. In the rain, the R got better. Despite some scrabble from the front tyres on soaked tarmac, the Civic continues to impress. Everything about it feels alive,

particularly along the wide open sections of the A4059 north of Penderyn. The short, notchy sixspeed manual is a joy to use, while the characterful engine provides more than enough shove to keep things interesting. Put simply, it’s a far more involving car to drive than you’d expect. On these roads, the Type R seems perfect. Yes, the interior foibles could make it a difficult one to live with day-to-day and you’ll have to get used to the strange looks from passers-by, but on Welsh A-roads when the sun is (occasionally) shining, there are few cars quite like it. The Knowledge Model: Honda Civic Type R Model as tested: Honda Civic Type R GT Base price: £32,995 Price as tested: £33,520 Engine tested: 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol Power (bhp): 316bhp Torque (Nm): 400 Max speed (mph): 169 0-60mph: 5.5 MPG: 36.7 Emissions (g/km): 176

By James Baggott

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

Local News

Slot Cars Simply mention the word Scalextric and, what image pops into the mind of most people of a certain age? Small oval or figure of eight tracks set up on the living room floor, fighting for your chance to have a go whilst your dad takes charge of your much wished for Christmas present? Scalextric has come long way from the early sixties and, in line with the requirements of the digital age, produces racing sets that allow more than one car to run in the same lane, overtaking, app based control systems that simulate fuel loads and request pit stops as well as manufacturing highly detailed models of modern racing cars that any fan of current formula one drivers can identify with. But, what lies beyond the world of the ‘home track’ racing set? Scalextric is a form of what is globally known as Slot Car Racing and, although it is not a main stream hobby and, has been eclipsed by the rise of Radio Controlled Cars and, the ever more immersive experience of Gaming, it has remained alive and well and still takes place at regularly run clubs throughout the UK and the rest of the world. For the speed freaks among us we have a branch of the hobby generally described as ‘Steel Chassis’ slot cars. These cars run loosely to a 1/32 scale but, have laser cut steel chassis, highly tuned electric motors and very wide and sticky tyres to give traction on the smooth tracks on which they run. Weight is always a consideration and the bodies that these cars use are vacuum formed from very

thin polycarbonate. Imaginative paint jobs make these cars look very different but purposeful. Most slot car tracks have computer controlled timing and race control which enables a series of races to be programmed into the system, which gives qualifying heats and finals for a given number of racers. To keep things even, most heats involve an individual competing over all lanes to give a qualifying total of laps which can be precisely measured and timed to one thousandth of a second. Clubs will typically run a yearly championship to decide a club champion in each of the classes that it may run. If ambitions run beyond the confines of the club, national championship qualifying meetings also occur throughout the year culminating in the National Finals. There is something for everybody in Slot Car racing and, if your interest has been aroused by this article and, you would like to know more, simply Google ‘Slot Car Racing’ and look for some of the You Tube clips that reside there. Otherwise, feel free to contact me, Ray George on 07851 419 852 (evenings only) if you would like more information. You never know, a track may be coming to this area in the near future.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

ABOVE ALL Autocentre Unit 1, Sand Road Ind. Est., Great Gransden SG19 3AH www.aboveallautocentre.co.uk

Tel: 01767 679000

MOT TESTING For class 4 or 7 vehicles Class IV Cars and vans up to 3000kg Class VII Vans over 3000kg up to 3500kg

MOT

Special Offer

£30

SERVICING All makes and models to manufacturer specification

AIR CONDITIONING – Recharging of system. DIAGNOSTICS - SNAP ON Diagnostic fault finding centre. EXHAUSTS - Supplied and fitted to all makes of cars and vans. BATTERIES - Supplied and fitted two and three year guarantee. BRAKES - Discs Pads Shoes. Cylinders etc supplied and fitted. CODE READING - Trace & rectify those alarming red dashboard warning lights. TYRES - All makes inc. Budget Avon, Dunlop, Firestone, Goodyear, Michelin, Pirelli.

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

Three Counties Radio

Beef Gulasz

with Cracked Barley Groats, Sour Cream and Dill We are lucky in the Three Counties to have a wonderful variety of food available and I love featuring different cuisines on the Weekend Kitchen. Back in 2010, I welcomed Ren Behan from St Albans on to the show. She had given up a career as a lawyer and was looking to build a new career as a food stylist and writer. I strongly encouraged her to write a book on Polish food and, 7 years later, she fulfilled her dream and her book was published. Ren is passionate about her Polish roots and is keen to show that Polish food is imaginative, vibrant and delicious. This gorgeous and simple recipe comes from her book, Wild Honey and Rye, and is a perfect winter warmer.

1. Heat the oil in a large cast-iron pan, add the onions and cook for 10 minutes on a low heat until golden and soft. Add the celery and carrots and continue to cook for 5 minutes. 2. In a large bowl, coat the beef in the flour, season well with salt and pepper. Add a drop more oil to the pan with the onions, turn up the heat and brown the meat all over. Add the mushrooms, tomatoes, tomato puree, stir and then pour in the beef stock, add the bay leaf and stir again. 3. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer for 1 ½- 2 hours over a low heat, stirring occasionally. Or, transfer to a slow cooker and cook for 4-5 hours. 4. Cook the barley or buckwheat according to the instructions on the packet. Serve the barley with the beef gulasz, drizzle over the sour cream and garnish with fresh dill. Ingredients 2 tbsp vegetable oil 2 onions, peeled, chopped 1 stick celery, washed, chopped 2 carrots, peeled, chopped 2 tbsp plain flour 500g beef braising steak or feather steak, cubed Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 250g mixed or chestnut mushrooms 2 ripe tomatoes, peeled, de-seeded and chopped 2 tbsp tomato puree 500ml beef stock, made up 1 bay leaf To serve: 200g crushed barley groats/pearl barley or buckwheat cooked according to the packed instructions (Kasza Jęczmienna). Fresh dill and Sour cream

Hear wonderful recipes on Nick Coffer’s Weekend Kitchen every Sunday morning on BBC Three Counties radio at 11am. You can also join Nick every weekday afternoon at midday for brilliant local guests with great stories to tell and all the music you want for your early afternoon.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

The original oven cleaning specialists

Oven Clean will transform your oven and put sparkle back into your kitchen Friendly, local, professional and reliable Complete eco friendly cleaning system

We clean your ovenâ&#x20AC;Ś. ....so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to.

No fumes, no mess, no bother Removes grease, fats and burnt on carbon

Call today to have your oven, hob, extractor or Aga professionally cleaned

Ovens | Filters | Hobs Grills | Extractors

Rob Radford contact details Tel: 01767 640594 Mobile: 07960 467805 www.ovenwizards.com

Call John on 07513 439604 www.ovenclean.com

Ovenclean 9-15.indd 1

17/09/2015 16:10

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

Quirky Britain

Not your bog-standard kind of sport Fancy navigating your way along a cold, muddy bog, wearing a snorkel and flippers? If your answer is an emphatic “No!” you may be surprised to hear that there are hundreds of people – not just in Britain, but across the globe – who would be happy to take your place. Bog snorkelling is a slippery, slimy sport popular in the UK, Australia, Ireland and Sweden, and in 2014 the travel publication Lonely Planet included it in a list of the world’s top fifty ‘must do’ activities. Competitors are required to travel two consecutive lengths along a 60 yard (55 metre) trench cut into a peat bog, completing the journey in the shortest possible time. Conventional swimming strokes are not allowed and competitors must rely on flipper power to propel themselves forward. Dressing for the bog Donning goggles, a snorkel and flippers is compulsory, but there are no rules when it comes to the clothes competitors wear. This has resulted in some wonderfully eclectic costumes, with snorkellers appearing as sharks and other sea creatures as well as fairies, superheroes and spacemen. Comic wigs and hats abound – in fact there’s a prize for the

‘Best Dressed Helmet’ for people taking part in the Triathlon, which combines bog snorkelling with bike riding and running. Looks familiar? Bog snorkelling’s profile received a boost last year thanks to the BBC’s Oneness campaign, which featured active community groups from across the UK. Amongst the skaters, cavers and bhangra dancers included in the campaign, you may have spotted a small gathering of snorkellers clad in fancy dress, posing on a grassy bank before plunging, fullyclothed, into the water below. Appropriately, this short ‘ident’ was used to flag up the BBC’s comedy and light entertainment shows. It was filmed in Llanwrtyd Wells in Wales, where the World Bog Snorkelling Championships are held in August each year. This sleepy Welsh town lays claim to the title ‘The home of bog snorkelling’, as the sport was invented there in 1976, following a pub conversation between a few locals intent on finding a new tourist attraction. And that’s not all … Llanwrtyd Wells’ ambition to become a national hub for quirky sporting events took another step forward in 2012, with the creation of the World Alternative Games.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Although the Games were inspired by the London 2012 Olympics and claim to uphold the ‘Corinthian spirit’ in all their events, the activities on offer at Llanwrtyd Wells are about as far removed from the Olympic programme as it’s possible to get. As well as bog snorkelling, medals are awarded for bathtubbing, belly-flopping, worm charming, wife carrying and husband dragging. Last year’s events even included a category entitled ‘Saving Donald Trump’, which featured an inflatable version of the US president. Although it is a relatively new ‘sport’, bog snorkelling has all the good humour and anarchic energy of other quintessentially British events such as pancake racing, tar barrel racing and cheese rolling, and just like those activities it requires a certain amount of skill and effort to compete successfully. Bog snorkelling may not be up there with the classic Olympic sports, but it more than makes up for that in terms of the enjoyment it generates, not to mention the good causes it helps through fundraising. You can find out more about bog snorkelling and related events at worldalternativegames.co.uk.

By Kate McLelland

Ltd

CMY

W.G.THIRKELL & SONS LTD Quality Painting, Decorating, General Building Maintenance and Repairs. Renovations, Alterations, Plastering & Ceramic Tiling. Established 1948

Fully Insured for all works including Commercial and Listed Buildings. Free Estimates and advice. Telephone: 01767 682570 07966 389212 (Mobile) Email wgthirkell@aol.com

Undertaking all aspects of: building work • Extensions • Renovations • Conversions • New Builds.

T M E

carpentry • Kitchens • Timber flooring • Bespoke cupboards • Joinery work.

01767 260076 07789 764978 daniel.jack@djackbuilding.co.uk

www.djackbuilding.co.uk

Villager 1/4 page advert.indd 1

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

17/09/2015 16:0

• Wood Burning Stoves • Multi Fuel Stoves • Chimney Lining • Twin Wall Flue Systems • Installation and Supply • Fireplace Renovations • Stove Accessories • Trade sales welcome

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN

Monday & Wednesday to Saturday – 10am – 5pm Other Days/Out of hours by prior arrangement

Unit 2 Home Farm Court, The Street, Diddington, St Neots, PE19 5XT

info@cromwellstoves.co.uk 01480 812281

www.cromwellstoves.co.uk

omwell stoves 1/4 page.indd 1

09/03/2017 15:40

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Parenting

Making STEM Fun

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) are the fastest growing industries in the world. Even if your child doesn’t fancy a career in STEM, they will need to use elements of it throughout their working life. According to The National Science Foundation, “To succeed in this new information-based and highly technological society, students need to develop their capabilities in STEM to levels much beyond what was considered acceptable in the past.” So how can you help your child to develop a real enjoyment for STEM? Science - There are lots of children’s science sets available to buy, but you don’t actually need any fancy equipment to conduct simple experiments at home, such as: • Asking your child to add a few drops of oil to a glass of water. Discuss what they think will happen. Will the oil and water mix or stay separate? • Finding four old, dull two pence coins. Soak each one in a different liquid (water, coke, vinegar and lemon juice) for a few minutes to see which liquid cleans the coin the best. Technology - Computer programming now features in the National Curriculum and many schools offer basic coding clubs from Key Stage 2. Paul Lyons, IT Director at Ebuyer.com, explains, “Even if your child has no interest in

becoming a software developer, they will benefit from skills such as problem solving and following instructions - which can be applied to other areas. Many parents may not know where to begin, but introducing educational aspects into children’s technology use at home can have a real impact on a child’s ability.” There are lots of resources available to help your child at home. Useful websites include: • scratch.mit.edu, which lets children aged six and up learn the basics of creating games online. • codecombat.com, while this American site is mainly aimed at teachers, you can sign up as a parent or student to access a free short course. • www.codeclub.org.uk, which lists coding clubs for 9-13 year olds across the UK. Engineering - K’Nex model building sets are a fun way to introduce engineering concepts. The K’Nex Education Introduction to Simple Machines: Levers and Pulleys Set, for example, contains more than 170 pieces, and instructions for building eight mini machines. You can also help your child to make

simple structures using household items. Straws and play dough are ideal materials for building model bridges. Or try searching www. instructables.com for instructions on making structures out of lolly sticks or toothpicks. Maths - Kjartan Poskitt, author of Murderous Maths and Ambassador for the National Young Mathematicians’ Awards 2017, says, “I always say that maths is like broccoli. You either like it or you hate it, but you have to have some because it’s good for you. If learning the tables is driving your child mad, what can you do to sauce them up? The secret is to play around with numbers and get to know them. Here are a couple of little facts and tricks to get you started: • If you write out the digits 1 2 3 4, you can turn them into 12 = 3 x 4. You can also do this with 5 6 7 8 because 56 = 7 x 8. • Pick any three consecutive numbers (e.g. 4, 5 and 6). Multiply the smallest by the biggest, and then add one. (So here we get 4 x 6 = 24, then 24 + 1 = 25). The answer is always the same as the middle number squared (5 x 5 = 25).”

By Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

DRIFTWOOD JOINERY LTD Specialists in Bespoke Joinery

Conservatories â&#x20AC;˘ Doors â&#x20AC;˘ Windows Staircases Handmade Kitchens Handmade Bedroom Furniture

Unit 12, Gracious Farm, Southill, Beds SG18 9JB T: 01462 816695 F: 01462 850915 E: info@driftwoodjoinery.com

Mark Dilley Electrical Part P Registered Company 22386 Extra sockets - Lighting Extensions - Re-wires Security Lighting - Showers Inspections No job too small Free estimates All work to BS7671 regulations City and Guilds qualified

Tel: 01767 261008 Mob: 07990 895430

mark.dilley@btinternet.com 70

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Motoring

I’m Not Sure I Did the Right Thing As I drove through town, it was sitting three cars behind me: an ANPR-equipped police car. I knew I had nothing to worry about as I had stuck to the speed limits, and my car and I were both road-legal. So I just clocked it in my rear view mirror as another road user. Approaching the red lights I pulled up next to a driver who was chatting away on their phone. Even though the car was stationary, this is an offence that now carries 6 penalty points, a £200 fine and, if incurred in the first two years of gaining your licence, a disqualification too. (I assume this caveat was added as the statistics show that those aged 18-24 are three times more likely to commit this offence.) Yet, a survey by KwikFit revealed that an astonishing 43% of those questioned still fail to realise this. More worryingly 17% of those

surveyed admitted to texting and 34% to taking calls when driving! It seems the message is slow to get through. When the driver next to me glanced across, I motioned behind me. Their startled look and dropping of the phone said it all. Whether the police saw them on the phone I don’t know as, at that point, the traffic moved off. On reflection I’m not sure I did the right thing was I a Good Samaritan? Or perhaps I shouldn’t have intervened, let the law take its course and a driver learn a hard lesson that using a mobile phone behind the wheel is illegal. You decide.

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

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Pets

Caring for an

Older Dog

When your dog ages, it begins to slow down and generally puts on weight. It may struggle with arthritis, making it difficult to move around with ease, particularly during the colder months. So what can you do to alleviate the symptoms of old age for your dog? Here are a few ideas that could put the spring back in their step. Glucosamine and chondroitin Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can aid movement by protecting your dog’s cartilage, lubricating their joints, and easing the pain of arthritis. It may take a while to get into their system, so it needs to be taken regularly. Individual needs vary, however, so speak to your vet, as they’ll be able to tell you the recommended dosage for your pet. Check their diet A dog’s nutritional needs change as they age, and you may find that as they become less active, the requirement for protein reduces. If your dog doesn’t want to eat one large meal a day, you could try offering them two or three smaller meals – this might ease their digestion, and make them more comfortable at night.

Keep exercising Even though they’re slowing down, it’s important to exercise regularly. This may mean having shorter, more frequent walks, rather than one long outing every day. Your pet will benefit from the fresh air and exercise, whatever the distance you walk. Caring for an older dog isn’t difficult. You just need to adjust the routine to account for their changing needs – much like us humans. www.petplan.co.uk/pet-information/dog/advice/ arthritis/ www.willows.uk.net/general-practice-service/ looking-after-your-pet/looking-after-your-dog/ looking-after-your-senior-dog www.yourdog.co.uk/Dog-Health-and-Care/ caring-for-an-older-dog.html www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/ health/seniordogs

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

By Ann Haldon

n O s ’ t Wha In February

Deadline for What’s On entries is the 12th of the previous month. What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.com

1 February Cancer Support Group Biggleswade and Area 1-3pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade The group meets on the 1st Thursday of the month. Has cancer touched your life? All are welcome to attend this support group - recently diagnosed, undergoing treatment, cancer survivors, caregivers, family and friends. Please note new venue. For additional information or to chat before attending, please call Gina. Tel: Gina 07812 796581 Web: www.cancersupportgroup.org.uk 1, 8, 15 & 22 February Amici Singers 7.30-9.45pm Trinity Methodist Church, Shortmead Street, Biggleswade Membership £15 per term (£45 per year) The Amici Singers are a non-auditioning female ensemble with a focus on fun! We do lots of tours, rehearse once a week and work hard/play hard. No auditions, just come along to a session to hear us, or if you want to join in then your first session is FREE! We only ask three things, that you love to sing, love to make friends (which is what Amici stands for) and like new opportunities. Anyone is welcome to come along and listen at any time. Tel: Ann 01767 650630 or Carole 01767 260815 for further information

2, 9, 16 & 23 February Lego Club 3.45-5.00pm Potton Library Every Friday afternoon. 2, 9, 16 & 23 February Sandy Ukulele Group 7-9pm Baptist Chapel Hall, Bedford Road, Sandy Meets every Friday. Please email for more information on joining the group. Visitors welcome. Email: sandyukulelegroup1@gmail.com Web: www.sandyukulelegroup.com 3 February The Signals Museum Open Day 10am-4pm The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open to the public. Entry is free but official photo ID such as a driving licence, passport or over 60s Bus Pass is required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom. Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 3 March Jumble Sale 1.30pm Clifton Community Centre Adults 50p Biggleswade Sandy Lions Jumble Sale. Any donations of jumble gratefully received and can be dropped off at 13 Fairfax, Clifton.

3 February Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire 2 February Hardy Plant Society Crime Readers Get Together 2pm Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, 10-11.30am Biggleswade Potton Library Andrew Humphries, a well-known head Share recommendations, meet and chat. Free gardener, talks about ‘Creating Beautiful tea and coffee. Gardens from Scratch’. Plants for sale. Andrew is a new speaker for the group. Web: www.hpscambsandbeds.co.uk

This is a small selection of the What’s On for the full listing please go to our website www.villagermag.com 74

5, 12, 19 & 26 February Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-11pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Branch Out meets every Monday night and is a medium-sized Social Club for single people. The club organises regular events, such as dinners, discos, meals, parties, Sunday walks, theatre and concert visits, day and weekend trips and holidays. Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 Web: www.branch-out.org.uk 6 February Hatley Coffee Morning 10am-1pm Hatley Village Hall Come along for a chat, coffee/tea and a slice of cake. Everyone welcome. Donations on the day. All donations split between Hatley Village Hall and Hatley St George Church. First Tuesday of the every month. 6 February Potton Ladies Club Mill Lane Pavilion, Mill Lane, Potton Visitors £5 inc. light refreshments Meets on the first Tuesday of the month. Visitors always welcome. Tel: Sarah Burgoine 01767 631415 Email: sarahjburgoine@gmail.com 6, 13, 20 & 27 February Phoenix Chorus 7.45-10.15pm Potton Lower School Have you loved the a capella singing shows on TV? Could you be pitch perfect with us? Phoenix A Capella Chorus meets every Tuesday 7.45-10.15pm. Visitors always welcome. In 2018 Phoenix Chorus will be representing the UK in the Sweet Adelines International Convention in St Louis, Missouri. Tel: Sarah 07842 101799 Email: pro@phoenixladies.co.uk Web: https://phoenixladies.co.uk to watch us perform

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

n O s ’ t Wha In February 6, 13, 20 & 27 February Biggleswade Ivel Badminton Club 8-10.30pm Biggleswade Recreation Centre (Stratton Leisure Centre) £3 per night Seeking competitive badminton players wishing to play in local leagues. Visitors Welcome. Email: IvelBC@hotmail.com Facebook: Facebook.com/IvelBC 6, 20 & 27 February Story Time 9.30-10am Potton Library 7 February Gamlingay & District Gardening Club 7.30pm Kier Suite, Gamlingay Visitors £3 Talk by Dr Twigs Way on “Virgins, Weeders and Queens: A History of Women in the Garden” Visitors welcome. 7, 14, 21 & 28 February Ivel Bereavement Support Centre 10am-12 noon The Community Rooms, Baptist Church, 24 London Road, Biggleswade Has a loved one died? Are you struggling coming to terms with it? Perhaps we can help you at our drop in centre on Wednesdays. Tel: Carole or Jill 07704734225 for more information 9 & 23 February Craft and Chatter 7.30-10pm St Marys Church Hall, Potton £2.50 inc. refreshments Bring your own project. Cross stitch, sewing, knitting, crochet, embroidery or something else. Meet like-minded people and make new friends, help each other out with tips and advice and chat at the same time. Web: www.facebook.com/craftandchatter

7, 21 & 28 February Mums and Dads Coffee Morning 9-10am Moggerhanger Church Bring your pre-school children with you. Toys available in the church. Tea/coffee, juice, biscuits are available at 50p per cup. 12 February Sandy Flower Club 2.30pm Sandye Place Academy Visitors £5 (on the door) The Flower Club meets every second Monday in the month and new members are always welcome. Tel: Sue Alexander 01767 699729 13 February Winter Olympic Crafts 10am-12.30pm Potton Library 14 February Decorating ‘Valentines’ Biscuits 2-4.30pm Potton Library 16 February Chinese New Year Crafts 10am-12.30pm & 2-4.30pm Potton Library 16 February Annual Quiz 7.30pm Sandy Conservative Club Hall £5 per person Organised by Sandy Horticultural Association in conjunction with the Sandy Allotment and Leisure Gardening Association. Teams of up to six people. Web: www.thesandyshow.org.uk 18 February Biggleswade Antiques Fair 9.30am-4pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Entrance £1.50. This antiques fair offers a diverse range of antiques and collectables. Tel: 01480 382432 or 07906 647346 Web: www.madisonevents.co.uk

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

21 February Sandy Horticultural Association Talk 7.30pm Sandy Conservative Club Bowls Pavilion Talk entry Members £2.50, Visitors £3.50 Talk ‘The Raptor Foundation’ with Michael Smith, founder of the foundation. Optional meal available afterwards (additional charge applies) - please call to book. Tel: 01767 68157 www.thesandyshow.org.uk 21 February ‘Poetry Table’ Club 8pm The Pembroke Arms, Biggleswade A monthly evening get together on the third Wednesday of the month for any and all locals who wish to share and hear poems in the fabulous Pembroke Arms pub. Tel: Leah 07954 708988 Web: www.tinyletter.com/poetrytable 24 February Blunham Giant Book Sale 10am-3pm Blunham Parish Church, (St Edmunds or St James), Park Lane, Blunham Come to our Browse and Buy Second Hand Giant Book Sale. Selection of second hand/ nearly new books, homemade cakes, teas and coffees, homemade soup and a raffle. All proceeds to Blunham Church Fabric Fund. 27 February Knit & Natter 10am-12 noon Moggerhanger Church 3 March Performers & Pints 8.30pm for 9pm start - 11.30pm The Rising Sun, 11 Everton Road, Potton A great community night out of fresh live music for all. Three singer songwriter music acts = one incredible evening of quality & diversity. Web: www.facebook.com/performerspints Twitter: @PerformersPints

Health Alison Runham ww.alison.runham.co.uk

How to get a

Good Night’s Sleep You may view a poor night’s sleep as just an inconvenience. But research has shown that insufficient or poor-quality sleep can contribute to serious health problems, including: • Weight gain and obesity. • Weakened immunity. • Increased risk of diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, heart disease, heart attack and stroke (over 45s who sleep less than six hours a night are 200% more likely to have a heart attack or stroke). • Reduced fertility and libido. • Reduced memory, concentration and reaction times. • Increased risk of depression, anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations and psychotic episodes. This means it’s vital that we all get enough good quality sleep, which for most of us means at least seven hours. However, it’s not always that easy. The Enemies of Sleep • Burning the candle at both ends, trying to fit in work, domestic or family duties and that

TV programme we don’t want to miss. Sleep disorders: night terrors, sleep walking, sleep talking, sleep paralysis, teeth grinding, restless limb syndrome and sleep apnoea. • Needing the toilet. • Pain e.g. from arthritis. • An uncomfortable or unsuitable bed, mattress or pillow. • Hormonal changes: temperature control and production of melatonin (a ‘body clock’ hormone) are affected by hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, and pain or heavy bleeding can disrupt sleep too. • Stress or depression. • Snoring. • Too much blue light. • Smoking and alcohol. • GORD (Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease) or LPR (laryngopharyngeal or ‘silent’ reflux, in which stomach acid damages the airways rather than, or as well as, the oesophagus, causing asthma-like symptoms). •

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

BARTON SCAFFOLDING LEAK SHIELD

Need A Plumber Fast? No Call out Fee

Call Alex on

07762773796 for friendly advice Blocked Drain • Toilet Overflowing No Hot/Cold Water • Leaks & Tap Repair Bathrooms • Drain CCTV Survey Burst Pipe • Toilet not filling up Stop Cock Replacement

Scaffolding for small extensions, garages, front and back of house. All types of fencing supplied and erected. Concrete bases for garden sheds. No job too big or small. For a free quote call Andy on: Friendly Local Reliable Lad

hour Emergency Service Local | Reliable | Qualified

LSP 1/4 page advert.indd 1

07752 194971 01582 651478 Barton le Clay

Friendly Local Reliable Lad

PK Cleaning Services

12/07/2016 18:03

Est. since 1988

• • • • • •

Professional Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Leather Cleaning Window Cleaning UPVC Fascia Cleaning Patio and Driveway Cleaning Gutter and Soffit Cleaning

Free Estimates Friendly and Reliable Service

Paul Kaiser Home 01767 222822 Mobile 07812 335860 Visit us on

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

Â®

TRADITIONAL SWEEPING SERVICE NESTS REMOVED CAGES, CAPS AND COWLS FITTED SWEEPING CERTIFICATES ISSUED PROFESSIONAL, CLEAN SERVICE FULLY INSURED POLICE CHECKED

01767 680791

Interior and Exterior Painting Gutter Cleaning & Repairs uPVC Fascia Board Cleaning Fencing, Gates and all Repairs Patios and all Garden Work Double Glazing & Repairs Concrete Bases, Paths & Steps Chimney & Wall Pointing Brick Work & Repairs Driveway Cleaning Broken Roof Tiles & Pots

All jobs undertaken

Free Estimates

Tel: 01767 680532 Mob: 0774 600 8188

cjpainting@hotmail.co.uk

wilkinschimneysweep.co.uk/bedford

CJ Property Maintenance

15 Years Experience

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Ten Tips to Help You Sleep: 1. Stop snoring. Maintaining a healthy weight can help to prevent snoring. You can try sleeping on your side, nasal strips, sprays or mandibular adjustment devices, but if these don’t work, consult your doctor. Not all snoring is harmless; you may be spending part of each night receiving a reduced oxygen supply, which can have serious health consequences. 2. Don’t go to bed hungry - but don’t eat late. Try to leave at least two hours between your last meal or snack and your bedtime. If you feel hungry in the evenings, choose something light and easily digestible. Milk can make you feel full and contains tryptophan, which can help sleep - but it’s absorbed poorly (eating a carbohydrate-rich snack at the same time may help). 3. Stop smoking and eliminate or reduce evening alcohol and caffeine. Both nicotine and alcohol can affect the quality and length of our sleep and caffeine is a stimulant. All three can also contribute to GORD and LPR, two of our ‘sleep enemies’. 4. Look after your body and your body clock. Our bodies are designed for, and need, exercise and daylight during the day and a more relaxed, dim environment in the evening. The hormones that regulate our body clock are responsive to these conditions. Try to make your environment as peaceful as possible during the evening. 5. Avoid blue light within two hours of bedtime. Blue light, more than any other type, interferes with production of the sleepinducing hormone melatonin. That means no TV, no tablets, no computers and no Smartphones. While blue light filters on these devices help, most reduce the blue light rather than eliminate it entirely. 6. Declutter your brain. Try talking your worries through regularly with a sympathetic friend or family member, or write them down before bed - if you can write a possible positive action beside your worries, even better. If your mind is full of todo lists, write them down too; knowing you don’t have to try to hold those ‘must-dos’ in your head should help you relax.

7. Have a night-time routine. When bed time is just an hour or two away, choose relaxing activities like reading (titles that get your adrenaline pumping are best avoided). Try having a warm (not hot) bath and/or a massage, using relaxing aromatherapy oils. 8. Make your bedroom a haven. Try to avoid using your bedroom as a work space or dumping ground; being surrounded by work to be done or clutter to be cleared isn’t relaxing. Ensure your bedroom is well ventilated and not too hot or cold and keep the lighting low, using lamps and a blackout blind or lined curtains. Earplugs are useful if you have noisy housemates or neighbours. Try to invest in a comfortable, supportive mattress and pillows. Adjustable beds can help if a fully horizontal sleeping position isn’t right for you, and orthopaedic pillows or memory foam pillows will ensure your head and neck are well supported. 9. Try not to worry about it. Lying there worrying about not sleeping isn’t helpful. If it’s just not happening, try to do something relaxing, such as reading a magazine or doing a jigsaw, until you feel sleepy. 10. Finally, see your doctor. If hormonal problems, night time toilet trips, mental health issues, GORD, LPR or pain are the problem, or these tips don’t work, visit your GP. They may be able to find an underlying cause you’re unaware of, and can recommend treatments and lifestyle changes to help.

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

Codeword 1

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Suduko

Hard Suduko

Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repetition. Use your logic to solve the puzzles. 80

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Extensions New builds Rewires Smoke alarms Landlord certificates Fault finding and repairs Consumer unit replacements Lighting and power (internal & external) Boiler controls Inspection and testing Free quotations Part P approved All types of electrical work undertaken

Tel: 01767 261622 Mob: 07947 732883 Email: dialporter01@tiscali.co.uk

Tel: (01767) 641575 Mobile: (07881) 627423 Email: cmfelectrical@hotmail.co.uk

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

1st Glass Window Repairs 30

years experience

FULLY INSURED! Local company who can fix all types of problems with your double glazing, call us now for a free quotation. Steamed Up Glass Faulty Windows, Door Locks or Hinges Draughty Windows or Doors Leaking Conservatory Roofs Fascias and Gutters New Conservatory Roofs We also supply and fit NEW Windows, Doors and Conservatories DISCOUNTS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE NIL DEPOSIT - BALANCE UPON YOUR SATISFACTION

07511 906161

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Local News

New Brand to put Greensand Country on the Map News from Greensand Country Landscape Partnership

A new destination brand for the distinctive, beautiful and loved countryside, which stretches from Leighton Buzzard to Gamlingay, looks set to raise the profile and popularity of the lesser known Greensand Country. The vision is for Greensand Country to be recognised as a highly attractive landscape with a unique history, wildlife and culture that will encourage people to visit, enjoy, understand, value and look after for the long term. The new Greensand Country brand creates a single identity, telling a joined up story of this distinctive landscape. Local tourist operators, businesses and other organisations will feel connected to the area and its identity and will use it to help promote the area as well as furthering their own objectives. The brand, which was officially launched by the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership at a celebratory event attended by many of the partners involved in supporting the vision for the future of Greensand Country, depicts the unique Greensand Ridge that rises

from the clay vales on either side. The heart shaped logo represents that this is a cherished landscape, with colours of the parkland, heathland and, most importantly, greensand running through it. Jon Boswell, Chief Executive of Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity, explains: “The new brand signifies a huge step forward in the future of Greensand Country, making it a destination that local people are proud to be a part of and those further afield are excited to visit.” Ciara Harper, Communications & Marketing Manager for The Shuttleworth Collection, attended the recent launch event and commented on her enthusiasm for the new brand: “We are excited to be a part of a wider partnership that brings together the fantastic work of many local partners across Greensand Country and promotes the fascinating history and heritage of our impressive landscape. “We are proud to be a part of Greensand Country and look forward to promoting it as a destination of importance and interest.”

Jon Balaam and Jon Boswell Launch Greensand Country Brand

Are you an organisation or business based within Greensand Country? We would love to hear from you about what you’re doing and how we can work together to promote and enhance the future of this landscape. Email team@greensandcountry.com or telephone the Greensand Country team on 01234 838774. For further information about Greensand Country visit greensandcountry.com, Tweet us @greensandsocial or find us on Facebook. The Greensand Country Landscape Partnership is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. It is made possible by National Lottery players. Without them we couldn’t fund the project.

The Lakes, Clophill Photography: Lisa King

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

Window Doctor Repairs to Windows, Doors & Conservatories • • • • • • •

Misty Units New Locks Draughty Windows Dropped Doors Broken Hinges/Handles Extra Security Installation of New Windows, Doors and Conservatories

25 Years Experience Contact Stewart Gyles on T: 0798 444 1638 or

01767 221 057

E: stewy_133@msn.com

P.E.JAMES

Domestic Plumbing, Heating & Gas

Reg No. 193542

• All Aspects of Plumbing, Heating & Gas Works Undertaken -

OVER 30 YEARS IN THE TRADE CITY & GUILDS CERTIFIED REFERRALS & RECOMMENDATIONS AVAILABLE NO VAT

Call Pete:

01767 317 356 • 07816 586 777 Guaranteed Friendly Service, look out for the ... 84

Blue Van &

Big Smile

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Januaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Puzzle Solutions and Winners Last Monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossword Winner Mrs P Anderson from Biggleswade Made In Dagenham Helen Burr from Meppershall

Golf Competition Mr Christopher Glover from Flitwick Easy

Hard

Fun Quiz - Nicknames

1. On which TV show might you come across people nicknamed the Beast, the Governess, the Dark Destroyer, the Sinnerman and the Vixen? 2. Taken from the small red flower he would draw on his messages, what is the nickname of the literary character of Sir Percy Blakeney? 3. In January 2009, it was revealed that Prince Charles referred to an Asian member of his polo club by what nickname - a nickname that a number of people deemed to be racist? 4. Qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in 2006, which national football team are nicknamed the Soca Warriors? 5. Completed in 2003, the London skyscraper called 30 St Mary Axe is commonly known by what food-related nickname? 6. Which 1997 film has a two-word title that is a nickname for the US government agency called the Justice Prisoner and Alien Transportation System? 7. Which snooker player is nicknamed 00-147? 8. Gripper, Gonch and Zammo were all nicknames of characters in which BBC TV series? 9. In which district of London would you find Aorangi Terrace, a grassed banked area that has been known by a number of different nicknames in recent years? 10. Which blues musician was born McKinley Morganfield in 1913, but took his stage name from a childhood nickname he got given due his habit of playing in a local creek? 1. The Chase 2. The Scarlet Pimpernel 3. Sooty 4. Trinidad and Tobago 5. The Gherkin 6. Con Air 7. Nigel Bond 8. Grange Hill 9. Wimbledon (it has been known by nicknames such as Henman Hill, Rusedski Ridge and Murray Mound) 10. Muddy Waters

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

The Villager Prize Crossword

Prize

£25

Across 7 Red fruit (6) 8 An agreement (6) 9 Water activity (4) 10 Pieces (8) 11 Non-attendance (7) 13 Slightly inebriated (5) 15 Quarrel (5) 17 Brine (7) 20 Holding tightly (8) 21 Pain (4) 22 Customer (6) 23 Soak up (6)

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



16th February 2018 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

Down 1 Spider’s trap (6) 2 Tepid (4) 3 Neat (7) 4 Begin (5) 5 Determined (8) 6 Smells badly (6) 12 Supplied with (8) 14 Line drawing (7) 16 Infrequently (6) 18 Cling to (6) 19 Unclean (5) 21 Plus (4)

Name: Tel: Address:

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

KEMP GARAGE DOORS SALES • INSTALLATION • REPAIRS • Family Run Business • 25 Years Experience • Up and Over • Sectional and Roller Doors www.kempgaragedoors.co.uk • Security Shutters

• Remote Control Door

SANDY • POTTON • All Major Brands

Supplied and Serviced

BIGGLESWADE • Call for a Free AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Quotation

• OAP Rates Available

01767 260165 Sandy

01480 210410 Eaton Socon To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

Food and Drink

Baking Perfect Pancakes Makes 8 pancakes

Whip up a classic pancake batter to celebrate Shrove Tuesday. Simply serve the traditional way with sugar and lemon juice or try one of our extra special sweet or savoury serving ideas. INGREDIENTS 100g plain flour Pinch of salt 1 large egg 300ml milk (or milk and water mixed) Sunflower oil or unsalted butter, for frying 1 Sift the flour into a large bowl, add the salt and make a well in the centre. Add the egg and beat with a balloon whisk, gradually drawing in some of the flour. 2 Slowly pour in the milk, whisking all the time and drawing in the rest of the flour, until you have a smooth batter which is about the consistency of single cream. 3 Stand the batter for about 30 minutes to allow the starch grains in the flour to soften and expand –this will give a lighter pancake. If the batter has thickened slightly then just whisk in a splash of milk. 4 Heat a little sunflower oil or a knob of butter in a non-stick shallow frying pan (about 20cm diameter)until almost smoking then quickly ladle in enough of the batter to thinly cover the base of the pan, swirling the pan to give an even layer. 5 Cook for 1-2 minutes until small air bubbles appear in the pancake then flip it over and cook for a further minute until golden. Repeat with

the rest of the mixture, serving the pancakes as they are cooked or interleaving with baking paper and keeping warm in a low oven. SWEET Choc ‘n’ nuts – spread warmed pancakes with chocolate and hazelnut spread then fold into quarters. Drizzle with warmed chocolate sauce and serve with toasted hazelnuts. Orange cream – heat 4tbsp thin-shred marmalade with 150ml orange juice in a frying pan and simmer for a few minutes until syrupy. Fold the pancakes and add to the pan, turning to coat in the syrup. Serve topped with whipped cream or crème fraiche. SAVOURY Cheese and bacon melts – add 2tsp dried Italian herbs to the pancake batter. Fill each cooked pancake with some grated Cheddar and 2 rashers crisply fried smoked bacon rashers. Fold over and pop in a hot oven for 10 minutes until the cheese has melted. Tuna parcels – place a spoonful of canned flaked tuna fish in the centre of each cooked pancake and top with some canned sweetcorn and chopped spring onion. Fold the pancakes to make parcels and enclose the filling. Serve with sweet chilli sauce.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Electrician

www.hertsandbedselectrical.co.uk

Do you find it difficult to get someone to come and do a small job? Fault finding/repairs Extra lights and sockets New fuse boards Rewires P.A.T testing Landlord inspections Qualified electrician  Fully insured Reliable service  Tidy work Free quote  Satisfaction guaranteed

Call Nigel on: 01767 834024 / 07941295883

3 Windows 3 Doors 3 Conservatories 3 Orangeries 3 Bi folds 3 Repairs T: 01767 765440

E: sales@i-glaze.co.uk

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

W: www.i-glaze.co.uk 89

Sureclean DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

• Spot stain and odour removal • Anti-stain protection • Leather suites cleaned and reconditioned • Tile and grout cleaning • The very latest equipment used • All work guaranteed • Fully insured • Local company

01767 400127 or 07870 338074 90

T&R Roofing Ltd

Family Business Est. 1985

• Felt Roofing Specialists (10 year & 15 year guarantee on high performance felts) • Tiling, Slating, Guttering • UPVC Facia/Soffits • Chimney Work

All NEW work guaranteed Fully insured for employer & Public Liability Call Tony Simpson for a FREE estimate on:

01767 314847 mob. 07831849847

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Hobbies

What Crochet Taught my Son Two years ago my mother decided to teach my son (aged eight at the time) how to crochet and recently it occurred to me just how much more it taught him. Intergenerational communication skills - My mother is clueless about Minecraft, Manga, and mobile phone technology, so conversing with Lucas could be stilted and awkward, but crocheting gives them a task in common and makes talking easier. By teaching him in small steps like a game, she made it seem achievable. That you don’t always need to be ‘plugged in’ A ball of wool and a crochet pin are the only tools required. He no longer asks for ‘computer time’ or complains that he’s bored when we visit Grandma. That failure is ok - Of course he dropped stitches and tangled his wool but Grandma told him it was ok to stop, and start again, and encouraged him not to give up at the hurdles. The sense of achievement - When he presented me with his first little coaster he was proud and

thrilled. He loved that I put it on my desk and that my coffee cup sits on it while I write. Every time he comes in, even two years later he mentions it. For the Christmas just gone I received a lovely crocheted hat made by him, with help from his Grandma. When I wore it out on Christmas Day he nearly burst with pride. I don’t know if he will continue to crochet but even if stops he will retain the other life skills his Grandmother has imparted, and I may well have another natty hat by then too.

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

By Tracey Anderson

Books

Book Review By Kate Duggan

COUNTRY STOVES & SWEEPS STOVE/GAS FIRE INSTALLATION • Wood Burning/Multi Fuel Stove & Gas Fire Installation

Hidden Gems

This month we’ve scoured the back catalogues for a few gems you might have missed.

Why Mummy Drinks

• Chimney Lining • Twin Wall Flue Systems • Free Survey & Quotation

CHIMNEY SWEEPING

by Gill Sims EPS

• Brush & Vacuum Sweep

Gill Sims is the author of a hugely successful Facebook blog – Peter and Jane’s Mummy. Why Mummy Drinks was released last autumn and quickly became a bestseller. Written in diary format, it tells the story of Ellen, a 39 year old mum of two, who’s trying to balance work and children, while navigating playground politics, irritating in-laws and an exboyfriend. The ensuing drama is extremely funny and very relatable if you’re a parent who isn’t quite ready to hang up her dancing shoes.

• Smoke Test

• Clean & Tidy • Insurance Certificate • Bird Guards Fitted

From

40.00

£ T:

01767 627591 - Northill, Beds

E: countrystovesandsweeps@gmail.com

www.countrystovesandsweeps.co.uk

The Mysterious Affair at Styles by Agatha Christie

If last year’s hit film Murder on the Orient Express has tempted you to dip into the works of Agatha Christie, why not start with her very first novel? Published in 1920 and set during World War I, it introduces readers to the brilliant mind of Belgian refugee Hercule Poirot. The murder of a woman has everyone pointing the finger at one man. It’s down to Poirot to find out the real culprit before it’s too late. While The Mysterious Affair at Styles is not considered Christie’s finest work, there are still plenty of twists and turns to keep you hooked.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Classifieds Accountants

Domestic Repairs

Domestic Appliance Repairs Washing Machines • Cookers Fridges • Vacs • Dryers

Bill Tangye

Beds Tel By or appointment only - 4 Stratford Road, Sandy, Mob 01767 650750Tel: 07711 07802 393331 257105

Domestic Repairs

Builders “YOUNG’S BUILDERS”

JB Domestic

“YOUR LOCAL PROFESSIONAL MASTER BUILDERS” “QUALITY AND VALUE FROM START TO FINISH”

Guaranteed Repairs To: Washing Machines Tumble Dryers Electric Ovens/Cookers Dishwashers

Garage conversions from £5.9K

Extension - Sunrooms

Call 07811 985568 or 01767 261803 www.youngsbuilders.co.uk “Free quotes • Excellent references”

• Extensions & Sunrooms • Garage & Loft Conversions • Walls, Patios & Decking • General Building Work • Property Maintenance

No Call Out Charge! Tel: 01767 680621 Mobile: 07778 891490

Electricians

Firewood

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

Classifieds Plastering Services

Garden Specialist

Hillier Garden Services All general garden maintenance jobs undertaken Over 20 years experience For all your gardening needs call Steve

01767 699252 07901 985123

Handy Man

S Classified advert.indd 1

Plumbing

14/04/2015 21:23

M. Philmore (Phil) - General Plumber Now semi retired but still available for general plumbing. 57 Green Acres, Gamlingay, Beds. SG19 3LR Tel: 01767 650619 Mobile: 07870366414

Plumbing and Heating

Painting Services

Pet Services

Business gone a bit slow? Let us help! Advertising in The Villager is easy. To find out more call Nigel on 01767 261122 or email nigel@villagermag.com

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Classifieds Private Car Hire

Removals & Storage removals, storage, archive and shipping • House and office moves • Large and small vehicles • Local/long distance and overseas removals • Containerised storage • Extremely high quality customer service Call for a no obligation quotation

01767 313230

enquiries@stephensremovals.com

Property Improvements Property Improvements by

A professional property maintenance service

Gary Hare Carpentry • Kitchens • Bedrooms Decorating • Flooring Bathrooms •Tiling • and more...

Tel: 01767 651821 Mob: 07773 973420

Property Improvements

Riding School

Stephens Dinky ad_03.indd 1

3/12/12 11:45:18

MANOR FARM RIDING SCHOOL Sutton, Beds - SG19 2ND

Lessons, Hacks - Pony Club Centre Pre-school rides - £12 Schooling livery available 07875 192662 You can also find us on facebook

Roofing

GARY BERRIDGE Plasterer & General Maintenance Including UPVC Doors and Windows Tiling, Painting and Decorating Free Quotes

T: 01767 316485 M: 07582 485155 E: garyberridge@ymail.com

Removals

Wood Suppliers

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

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

SPECIAL OFFER FOR FEBRUARY Meet Friends newest members

Cat - Senior Stylist

Sam - Senior Stylist

Receive 20% off any services throughout February with Sam and Cat. Please quote ‘Villager Offer’ at time of booking. Offer applicable to new bookings only. Call us on

01767 682789

Opening Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Friday 9.30am - 6.00pm Wednesday & Thursday 9.30 - 9.00pm, Saturday 8.30 - 4.00pm www.friendsfivestarhairdressing.com facebook.com/friendshair

Friends Five Star Hairdressing 1 Market Square, Sandy, Beds SG19 1HT