Potton june 18 by Villager Mag

VILLAGER The

Issue 142 - June 2018

and Town

Life

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

In this issue Win a 1 Year Membership at

Beadlow Manor Creative

Containers 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

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Inside this issue... Win a Family Pass to Folk by the Oak

10 How We Fell in Love with Perfume......................................................... 4 Location, Location, Location................................................................... 8 Win a Family Pass to the Folk by the Oak Festival................................. 10 Win a 1 Year Membership at Beadlow Manor....................................... 12 Party on Potton.................................................................................... 15 Give Blood............................................................................................ 16 Downsize Your Dish and Your Dress Size............................................... 18 Wines: Gems of Austria........................................................................ 21 Teddy Bear Festival Returns to Woburn Abbey..................................... 25 Understanding Travel Insurance........................................................... 26 National Volunteers Week.................................................................... 29 Fun Quiz............................................................................................... 30 Countdown to ‘This Girl Can in Herts’ Week 2018.................................. 32 Wordsearch.......................................................................................... 35 Top Travels............................................................................................ 36 How to Look Effortlessly Stylish at a Wedding...................................... 41 Women Over 50 - CEOs at Work and Play.............................................. 45 I don’t want to be with my partner any more....................................... 47 Totally Tropical..................................................................................... 48

Rural Ramblings................................................................................... 50 Creative Containers.............................................................................. 53 R.A.T.S. Rehoming Appeal.................................................................... 55 Ask Alan - Potton Vets.......................................................................... 56 Animal Heroes...................................................................................... 59 Children’s Page..................................................................................... 61 10 Electric Vehicle Myths Busted.......................................................... 62 Bedford Model Engineering Society..................................................... 64 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe............................................................... 67 Milan Cathedral.................................................................................... 68 Here Comes Summer: Tech for Outdoor Living...................................... 71 Never Too Early - Book and Eye Examination for your Child.................. 72 What’s On............................................................................................. 74 Iconic Routes: The North Coast 500...................................................... 76 Cyber Bullying...................................................................................... 79 Puzzle Page.......................................................................................... 80 Rotary Club.......................................................................................... 82 Prize Crossword.................................................................................... 86 What’s wrong with a little rose-tinted nostalgia?................................ 88 Book Review........................................................................................ 90

Milan Cathedral

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, Louise Addison, Lucy Robson, Trevor Langley, Tom Hancock, Sarah Davey, Kate Duggan, Jennie Billings, Suzanne Roynon, Rachael Leverton, Geoff Wharton, Pippa Greenwood, Potton Vets, RSPCA, James Baggott, Nick Coffer, Solange Hando and Kate McLelland

Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com Photography - ZoomTeam Design and Artwork - Design 9 Tel 07762 969460 • www.design9marketing.co.uk

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

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

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History

How We Fell in Love with Perfume By Catherine Rose

The word perfume is derived from the Latin per fumum, meaning ‘through smoke’. This is possibly because the perfumes of ancient civilisations were often incense-based – a dried paste made from herbs, spices, essential oils and fragrant tree resins (including the biblical frankincense and myrrh), which was made to be burned. Today, true perfumes are a distillation of a certain percentage of oils in alcohol, with eau de toilette and eau de cologne being diluted versions. The perfume-making process was described by Pliny the Elder, a well-known Roman philosopher who was born around twenty years after the death of Christ. But although the Romans were well-known to be very fastidious in their toilet habits, perfume very much pre-dates them. Used significantly across Asian cultures, it is believed perfume may have originated in Arabia – still sometimes described as ‘the land of perfumes’. Iraq, Kuwait, northern Saudi Arabia, parts of

eastern Syria and south-east Turkey were once known as Mesopotamia. The perfume formulas of a female Mesopotamian chemist known as Tapputi-Bellatekalim have been translated from a three-thousand-year-old tablet written in ancient cuneiform script. In the ancient world, perfumes were much more than just pleasant smells – they were also revered. The Bible refers to a sacred perfume, only allowed to be used by priests, that was made from myrrh, cinnamon, cassia and sweet cane. The ancient Egyptians believed perfume was ‘the sweat of the gods’ and used it in death rituals. They would burn kyphi in their temples, a devotional incense made from sixteen ingredients: myrrh and other resins, sweet rush, juniper, cypress grass, wine, honey and raisins. They also anointed their dead with perfumes whose scent could still be detected when tombs were re-opened. But perfume is even older than this. Ancient Hindu Ayurvedic texts dating

By Catherine Rose

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The Old White Horse • 1 High Street • Biggleswade • SG18 0JE Tel: 01767 314344 www.lolineinteriors.co.uk e: dave@lolineinteriors.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

back to 3000 BC refer to its distillation. In India, different fragrances were used in tantric rituals where women would be spiritually anointed with spikenard for their hair, patchouli on their cheeks and neck, jasmine on their hands, amber on the breasts, musk for the abdomen, sandalwood on the thighs and, finally, saffron for their feet. Then, in 2004, the oldest evidence of perfume was discovered with the remains of a Bronze Age perfume ‘factory’ unearthed in Cyprus. It is thought that 13th century Crusaders brought back perfume from Palestine, and its use was eagerly taken up by Europe’s nobility (Queen Elizabeth I became a fan). The Sun King Louis XIV, who ruled France from 1643-1715, loved perfume so much that his palace became known as ‘the perfume court’. This might have had something to do with the fact that, like most of the nobility at that time, he was loathe to take baths, believing (quite understandably) that water made you ill. King Louis had a different perfume for every day and installed a pavilion that he kept filled with flowers and would visit with his mistresses. He insisted on dousing every palace visitor with scent and the most important had their own signature perfumes. One of his favourite perfumes, used to fragrance his shirts, was called Aqua Angeli (‘water of angels’) and consisted of, amongst other ingredients, nutmeg, cloves, jasmine, orange flowers, musk and aloe wood, all boiled in rose petal water. During this time, France became a force in Europe for the manufacture and supply of fine perfumes, and Grasse in southern France, renowned for its natural variety of flowers, was a leading supplier. In England, where sanitation was also abysmal and disease rife, perfumes were not only worn; they were also kept inside jewellery and the heads of canes to be inhaled by the wearer for health-giving properties and to ward off illness. As well as essential oils from flowers and plants, ingredients for perfume were also derived from animal excretions. Castor was extracted from beavers, musk from male deer and ambergris from the sperm whale. In the 1800s, synthetic fragrances made an appearance, their less expensive ingredients allowing for the first mass marketing of

perfumes, thus launching famous companies that are still around today such as Coty and Guerlain. It was discovered, for example, that a mixture of nitric acid and benzene gave off a scent like almonds, so this was consequently used in soap. It is not possible to obtain essential oils from some flowers, lily of the valley for instance, so the development of synthetic scents proved ideal to replicate them. With mass marketing, perfume bottle design became increasingly important and the Art Nouveau period saw the launch of many beautiful styles, some of them designed by the artisans of the era such as Rene Lalique. Then in 1921, Chanel created her signature scent, Chanel No. 5, with the help of Grasse parfumier Ernest Beaux who had made perfumes for the Russian royal family. Under her direction, he gave her numbered samples to choose from – the rest is history. Today our love of perfume remains undiminished and fragrances are popular with both men and women. But one thing hasn’t changed in that, even used daily, perfume is still viewed as a gloriously indulgent and luxury item – pure olfactory pleasure in a bottle.

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Local News

Location Location Location Calling all Property Hunters in Bedfordshire and the surrounds! Channel 4’s ‘Location, Location, Location’ is planning to come to BEDFORDSHIRE and the surrounding areas to film an episode for our new series. Property experts Kirstie Allsopp and Phil Spencer will be helping people find their dream home early this coming summer, 2018. Chain free buyers struggling to find the right property are welcome to apply. The sooner you apply, the better chance you have so if you’re looking for a home of your own - don’t delay, apply today! Whether you’re upsizing or downsizing, buying your first property or hoping to find your ideal forever home, you could have two top property experts on your side. Whatever the budget and however tricky the search - we would love to hear from everyone! Phil and Kirstie may be just the helping hand you need! The online application form can be found via the following link: https://www.shortaudition.com/LocationLocation-Location

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Win a Family Pass to the Folk by the Oak Festival in Hatfield Sunday 15 July

Folk by the Oak is the UK’s largest one day folk festival, and promises all the open air buzz of a 3 day festival packed into one joyous day of music, fun and bunting, without the need to camp! As well as bringing together an exceptional line- up of folk, roots and acoustic talent, which this year includes international festival favourite Amy MacDonald, the legendary Billy Bragg, and critically acclaimed Eliza Carthy, Folk by the Oak is a festival designed with fun for all the family in mind. The Main Stage with its outdoor arena means that children can freely dance about in the parkland and the smaller, covered Acorn Stage attracts a little gathering of children right at the front singing along to favourite songs. As well as programming a day of back to back sublime music across these 2 stages, the organisers have lovingly gathered together many magical, unique and imaginative activities for children of all ages to enjoy, either in our dedicated family area or dotted around the festival site. Unusually in the festival world, you can even bring your own picnic to Folk by the Oak, so feeding kids doesn’t mean spending a fortune or leaving the auditorium and missing out on the action. Should supplies run low there’s a carefully selected and plentiful array of tasty food stalls available too, as well as that festival essential for the grown-ups, the Real Ale Bar! To be in with a chance to win a family pass (2 adults and 2 children) simply send your entry by 16th June 2018 to: Folk by the Oak, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP. The winner will be drawn randomly.

FOLK BY THE OAK COMPETITION ENTRY

For a chance to win a family pass simply complete your details below and post your response by 16th June 2018 to: Folk by the Oak Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP. Name:



Don’t want to leave it to chance? For the full line-up and to book tickets go to www.folkbytheoak.com

Address:

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Win a 1 Year Membership at Beadlow Manor Hotel and Golf Club

Beadlow Manor Hotel and Golf Club is a golf club set in 307 acres of Bedfordshire Countryside and is one of only two golf courses in the county with 36 holes and a 25 bay flood lit driving range. The Baroness golf course measures 6,098 yards. The Baron course is the more challenging golf course and measures 6,611. When you finish playing you are assured a warm welcome in our clubhouse where you can relax with a beverage and try food from our new bar menu. Room hire available for parties and corporate meetings too.

Membership Types

Contact Sean for details:- Tel: 01525 860800 Email: sales@beadlowmanor.co.uk Seven Day Membership £540 Full seven day playing rights on two 18-hole golf courses, 14-day advance tee booking rights, access to all Club competitions, 10% discount off Food and Beverage purchase free 30 minute lesson with our resident golf professional.

Junior Memberships from £49 Corporate Memberships tailored to suit you Military memberships discounted fee 999 memberships discounted fee WWW.BEADLOWMANOR.CO.UK

The Villager Magazine has partnered with Beadlow Manor to offer its readers the chance to win a 1 year membership at Beadlow Manor Hotel and Golf Club (worth £540). The prize includes the use of two 18 hole golf courses, 7 day playing rights, exclusive member discounts and excellent practice facilities.

BEADLOW MANOR HOTEL AND GOLF CLUB COMPETITION ENTRY

For a chance to win a 1 year membership simply complete your details below and post your response by 16th June 2018 to: Beadlow Manor Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP. Name:



The winner will be drawn at random.

Address: Tel: Email: All entries will be passed to Beadlow Manor.

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BICKERDIKES

SAFFORD’S COACHES 2018 DAYHUNSTANTON EXCURSIONS SUN 3 JUNE SAT 9 JUNE SUN 10 JUNE SAT 16 JUNE SUN 17 JUNE MON 18 JUNE SAT 23 JUNE SUN 24 JUNE SAT 30 JUNE SUN 1 JULY SAT 7 JULY SUN 8 JULY

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SUMMER IN EASTBOURNE ...............................£346 COUNTY DURHAM ..........................................£379 SEASIDE DELIGHT – BRIDLINGTON .................£343 EDINBURGH TATTOO & LOCH KATRINE ............£358 HISTORIC HASTING.........................................£363 DELIGHTFUL DORSET WEYMOUTH ...................£385 HARROGATE AUTUMN FLOWER SHOW..............£309 ISLE OF ARRAN & THE AYRSHIRE COAST ..........£411 WW1 BATTLEFIELDS FLANDERS .......................£408 ISLE OF WIGHT...............................................£339 PEAKS & PLAINS OF CHESHIRE .......................£342

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Party On Potton

Local News

10th Anniversary BIG Weekend Friday 24th – Monday 27th August 2018 Henry Smith Playing Field, Brook End, Potton SG19 2QS That’s right folks it’s nearly, really is that time when the fantastic community of Potton come together again to have the biggest and best party of all. This year is our 10th anniversary and we’ve been working hard to make this the most successful of years. We are really lucky in Potton to have many wonderful groups and are hugely honoured and chuffed that George, Peter and The Potton History Society will be hosting a ‘Potton Celebrates .. The POP story’ at 8pm on Thursday 23rd August at the Community Centre. So The Big Weekend starts a night early with fun, photos and chat all about POP. Make a note in your diaries to mozy on down and get into the POP vibe. The day time events start off with the Carnival Parade on Saturday, 25th at midday when we end up on the Henry Smith playing field with more events, games and fun than you’ll find in Ken Dodd’s repertoire. We’re savvy enough to keep all the favourites and mad enough to fit more in such as zorbing, Potton bake off, live music and a Kid’s zone that has basically gone totally potty (a little like its organiser). Day time events are all free and the ticketed evening events are like no other year. We have a club night for everyone, Sound Express Swing Band, an evening of comedy and The Potton playhouse are putting on ‘Snow White and the 7 Pottians’. The programme is with the clever designers at Right Click and we’ll let you know when tickets are on sale. Who’d have thought it – 18 years on but only 10 years older. HAPPY ANNIVERSARY POP.

Coach Coac the

Here comes the sun, and with it our new summer mezze menu! You’ll find some fresh flavours in our small dishes, inspired by Asia and the Middle East. Perfect for eating in the beer garden with a glass of something cold.

Beer food

Mezze

Beer-battered king prawns prawns.......................£6

Moroccan-spiced feta & beetroot ‘sigara’....£5

Cajun squid ............................................................£6

Lebanese beef skewer ........................................... ...........................................£6 £6

Sausage on a stick ......................................... .........................................£1.5 £1.5

Grilled halloumi ............................................................£6

Chicken goujons ................................................. £5

Sticky pulled, spiced lamb ..................................£6

Coach chips (v) .................................................. £3.5

Pitta & dips .........................................................................£5

Asian dressing lemon mayo

Lincolnshire sausage & ketchup garlic mayo

Sweet potato fries ......................................... £3.5 garlic mayo (v)

lettuce wedge & tzatziki (v)

hummus, roasted red peppers & ﬂatbread

chopped ezme salad & pomegranate dressing (v) ﬂatbread, tzatziki, pomegranate & mint hummus, tzatziki & ezme (v)

Middle-Eastern grilled chicken wings......£6 lettuce wedge & tzatziki

Served 12-2.30pm & 6-9pm (v) = vegetarian

Villager 1 and Town Life please call 01767 261122 To Mezze advertise in advert.indd The Villager

01767 260221 www.coachhousepotton.co.uk 16/05/2018 13:54 15

Time of Year

By Louise Addison

Give Blood!

World Blood Donor Day is June 14th

Most of us have had or know someone who has had a blood transfusion. Blood donation is vital to help treat thousands of seriously ill patients every day and new donors are desperately needed. Currently only 4% of the eligible population are active blood donors. Here are 10 reasons to consider giving blood: Life-saver - You change lives each time you give blood. Every blood donation can save or improve the lives of up to three adults or six children. Desperate need - NHS Blood and Transplant needs many more donors to come forward to make sure the nation’s blood stocks remain at a safe level for the future. Day-to-day needs - You may think blood is only used for massive blood loss in A&E patients, but your blood could help many different people. Donated blood is also used for patients having surgery, maternity emergencies, and for people with cancer or blood disorders. 6000 donations are needed per DAY! - It’s true that changes in medical practices mean demand for donated blood has reduced. But hospitals across England and North Wales still need around 6,000 blood donations every day to treat patients. A quick pint - If you book an appointment, the whole process takes less than an hour. One hour, every three to six months. Just a short amount of time to do something wonderful for another human being. You’re probably eligible - You need to be in general good health and weigh over 50kg to

donate blood. If you are looking to donate for the first time you need to start on or before your 66th birthday. To check if you are eligible go to www.blood.co.uk You might be a missing type - Blood from all groups is needed but some blood groups are particularly vulnerable to shortfall such as O negative – which can be given to all patients in an emergency: think of those episodes of Casualty or ER where the doctor in charge yells ‘Where’s the O-NEG’! You might be young - We need more young donors. Around half of current donors are aged over 45. The more young people get involved the better future blood stocks will be safeguarded. You can start donating at 17. You might be BAME - Are you black, Asian or from an ethnic minority? Please consider becoming a donor as some rare blood types are more common among these communities. Conditions such as sickle cell and thalassemia are also more likely to affect these groups and patients require regular blood transfusions, ideally from donors from a similar ethnic background. There are biscuits - Free food! Around 6 million biscuits are eaten by donors every year. Aren’t we a greedy bunch? But the post donation biscuit and cuppa are important because sitting quietly while eating and drinking something helps the body to recover. If I’ve inspired you to become a donor go to www.blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 23 23.

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AFTERNOON TEA AT THE HOUSE Enjoy a freshly baked afternoon tea in the delightful setting of The House at Shuttleworth, with a chance to explore its grand rooms. £20.95 per adult and £10.95 per child (additional charge for Father’s Day Afternoon Tea). For more information call 01767 627965 or email events@shuttleworth.org.

2018 Dates Sunday 17 June (Father’s Day) Sunday 29 July

Sunday 19 August Sunday 28 October

Additional dates may be added, see website for details.

Pre-book only - www.shuttleworth.org/afternoontea The House, Old Warden Park, Biggleswade SG18 9EA The House at Shuttleworth, Old Warden Park, Biggleswade SG18 9EA

- Afternoon advert FP June To Villager advertise in TheteaVillager and18.indd Town 1Life please call 01767 261122

30/04/2018 11:21:05

Weight Loss

Downsize Your Dish... Smaller plates may be a key to weight loss. Several years ago, a food psychologist called Brian Wasink gathered a group of 85 food and nutrition experts. He gave each of them a small bowl or a large bowl and a small scoop or a large scoop. Then he asked them all to serve themselves a ‘portion’ of ice cream. Now these were people who knew about nutrition, yet they scooped 31% more than the average serving size into the large bowl and 15% more from the large scoop. Studies at the University of Pennsylvania conducted similar experiments hypothesising that giving student subjects a smaller scoop would mean they would take more than one, but most of the students took only one scoop regardless of size. So, what can those of us who want to shed a few pounds take from this? Swap your 10 inch / 25cm dinner plate for an 8 inch / 20 cm one and put fattening foods like gravy or salad dressings into

...and your dress size! small bowls with small spoons. Put salad stuff and vegetables in a big bowl with a large serving spoon and then tuck in. Downsize with science!

By Lucy Robson

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Authentic Italian Pizza Traditional Pasta Dishes Home-Made Desserts Our dough is made in house daily and proved for 48 hours to obtain a crispy, highly-digestible pizza.

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Food and Drink

Wines: Gems of Austria Austria attracts many visitors, from global origins, constantly. From pretty alpine villages, through cities, boasting beautiful architecture, to stunning landscapes, with lakes, mountains, glaciers and so much more, there is something for everyone. Vienna is the capital city and home to Strauss, the renowned family that is famous for numerous musical scores, including much-loved and well-known waltzes. The Vienna Boys Choir has many followers, worldwide. Locating Mozart’s birthplace, cathedrals and a lot of other locations, including some of the world’s finest museums and art galleries, hold much interest. The high-quality wines, produced in Austria, many of which are multi award-winning, have become recognised for their distinctive, superb attributes.

Domäne Baumgartner is currently reputed to be the largest wine estate in Austria. Having centuries of experience and, now, combining tradition with innovation, Domäne Baumgartner produces outstanding wines. Indeed, Grüner Veltliner Rosenprinzessin (Rose Princess) is, truly, ‘Music in the Bottle’. This wine is ‘treated’ with/to music, having frequencies ‘encouraging’ the eventual outcome. The resulting wine is elegant and has a very good, full body. Taste the music – absolutely! Their ranges include classic, dry Grüner Veltliner wines, which are medium-bodied and full of character, through Zweigelt and Pinot Noir Grande Reserve productions, displaying most impressive fruit depths. All are great pairings with many dishes, complementing cuisine to an exceptional standard. www.weinbaumgartner.at Hauermandl is a family-owned winery in the Langenlois area. Several grape varieties are grown, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Muskateller, Pinot Noir, Zweigelt and, of course, Grüner Veltliner. Their Steiner wine ranges include Grüner Veltliner Sommeliers and Privat Riede Neuberg. On, through Grüner Veltliner Riede Dechant Reserve, to others, that include Riesling Riede Steinhaus and Muskateller, to Zweigelt Reserve. These productions prove to be very popular. Each to their own, the Zweigelt is often selected to impress – and impress it certainly does! This production has many ‘devotees’ and is regularly chosen to grace numerous dining occasions. This red, fruited wine, is both delicate and elegant. The silk-red conveys throughout, from the appearance, through the bouquet, to the superb pleasures, on the mouth and palate, with a memorable finish. Wonderfully delicious. www.hauermandl.at

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

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Business gone slow? Let us help!

Advertising in The Villager is easy. To find out more call Nigel on 01767 261122 or email nigel@villagermag.com

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Local News

Teddy Bear Festival Returns to Woburn Abbey

Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, the Teddy Bear Festival is returning to Woburn Abbey on Sunday 10th June. The festival, which is a homage to all things teddy bear, will take place from 10am to 3.30pm in the Sculpture Gallery and Grounds. There will be over 150 stalls, where visitors will be able to browse and buy the finest examples of Artist bears and animals, antique and vintage teddy bears and soft toys. In addition, there will be an opportunity to meet experts and get free teddy bear valuations from Daniel Agnew of Special Auction Services. Other highlights include an exhibition of rare and famous teddy bears kindly on loan from collectors. The famous Bristol Bear, a 1910

German antique bear lost at Bristol airport that was only found thanks to a public appeal, will also be on display. There’ll be a hospital for bears in need of repair too. Visitors can make a day of it; there will be refreshments in the central courtyard and tickets can be upgraded to include a visit to the Abbey itself. Entry tickets to the Festival are £12 and include entry to the Festival and fair and the historic gardens and grounds of the Abbey all day. To purchase tickets, visit www.woburnabbey.co.uk/events Follow us on Facebook @ Woburnteddybearfestival

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Travel

Understanding

By Tom Hancock

Travel Insurance

See ou rw eb s

It can seem like just one more extra cost you could do without, but travel without it and you could be in trouble. Crippling costs - You risk footing a very large bill should you need healthcare or have your baggage lost or stolen. something as simple as a stomach bug in California with a stomach bug, which requires treatment and later flights home, could cost in the tens of thousands of pounds. A broken hip in a European destination could lead to a bill of £15,000 Don’t forget - If you are planning any sports or other activities, mention it. Skiing and extreme sports are obvious examples, but scuba diving and other activities you may not think of as “extreme” may still need extra cover. Know how much it would cost to replace baggage, from suitcases to clothes, to jewellery, including wedding rings. Why it matters where you’re going - EU countries tend to be less expensive while Canada, the US and the Caribbean are much more so due to the

ite

incredibly high cost of medical care in those regions. Declare pre-existing conditions - certain medical conditions will add to the cost of your insurance, because insurance is about risk and certain ailments make it more likely that you might require medical attention. It may be worth looking at insurers which specialise in providing this type of insurance. Tell them everything - Even if it feels like you are hiking up the cost of your insurance policy. You don’t want your insurance to be invalid if you need to make a claim. Read! - When you get your policy, make sure you read the full terms and conditions and the medical declaration carefully, so you understand exactly what you’re covered for.

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Time of Year

By Sarah Davey

National Volunteers Week 1st – 7th June

This year, Volunteers’ Week is about volunteering for all – celebrating the huge range of people who give their time in so many ways. Could you volunteer, and why should you bother? Studies have found that taking time out to help others reduces stress levels, improves immunity and increases life-satisfaction. This is because helping someone else interrupts tensionproducing patterns and replaces it with a sense of purpose, which leads positive emotions. Whether you’re looking for a change in career or advancement in your current one volunteering is an excellent way to boost your prospects. Volunteers tend to create a positive impression, appearing more innovative, creative and skilful. In an Adweek article on the state of recruitment in 2015, they found that recruiters rank volunteer participation higher than personal presentation, political affiliations and spelling and grammar errors when looking at a candidate’s potential. This is probably because employers value transferable soft skills and volunteering gives you plenty of those, particularly problem-solving, teamwork, leadership and people skills. Candidates with realworld experience also tend to be more insightful and ready to be more hands-on in projects. Away from the corporate world many people look around their community and long to make a difference but don’t know how. Look for community volunteering projects and get involved. It gives you the

chance to think about the kind of community and world you want to live in, and to be part of something bigger than yourself. If you’re still not sure where to start your volunteering journey think about where your passions lie. Maybe you love animals, are passionate about butterflies, or you want to share music, or life experience, or gardening skills. Look on the web, there will probably be some volunteer group where your passion or knowledge will be useful. If you are feeling adventurous volunteering abroad allows you to travel with a purpose. Before deciding on a programme it’s advisable to ask: • How will it benefit the local community? • Does the organisation respect the local culture? • What is the reason behind your volunteering trip? • What problem will the end-product help solve? Volunteering abroad changes how you see the world as you meet people daily from different countries, backgrounds and quality of life. Many of us are lonely in our modern lives. Maybe we moved away from our families for work, or we’re divorced, or widowed, or the children have left home. Volunteering introduces you to people from all walks of life and provides a means of making real friends who can have a lasting impact on you. Volunteering can shake you out of old routines and help you figure out where you want to head next. You might come up with ideas on how to improve your own community, or even discover a new life calling.

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Fun Quiz - Land 1. Published in 1956, The Last Battle was the seventh and final novel in a series set in which fictional land? 2. Which group won Best Album at the Brit Awards in 2004 for their debut album, called Permission To Land? 3. What is the most populated country in the world to have a name ending in “land”? 4. Which “land” featured in a play called The Birds by the Ancient Greek playwright Aristophanes, and has come to be used as a general term for a state of absurdly over-optimistic fantasy? 5. Reading from what turned out to be the wrong card, which individual mistakenly named La La Land as the winner of the Best Picture Oscar at the Academy Awards ceremony held in 2017? 6. In a famous novel, what name is given to the land that is made up of four countries called Winkie, Gillikin, Munchkin and Quadling? 7. What animated film is set in Pepperland? 8. Who composed Pomp And Circumstance March Number One, which later became the basis for the song Land Of Hope And Glory? 9. What is the only country in the world to display a map of its land on its flag? 10. In which well known poem do the title characters go to “the land where the Bong-tree grows”? 1. Narnia 2. The Darkness 3. Thailand 4. Cloud cuckoo land 5. Faye Dunaway 6. Oz (in The Wonderful Wizard Of Oz) 7. Yellow Submarine 8. Edward Elgar (accept Elgar) 9. Cyprus 10. The Owl And The Pussycat

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Welcome to the New You! Wouldn’t it be nice to turn back the years? Well, now you can.

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Countdown to

‘This Girl Can in Herts’ week 2018 Have you been inspired by the success of Team England at the 2018 Commonwealth Games? What captivated your attention the most? The list of female English successes on the Gold Coast is phenomenal, making the games breath taking, nail biting and inspirational on all accounts. The Herts Sports Partnership, based at the University of Hertfordshire, are looking to build on this success with the return of ‘This Girl Can in Herts’ week from Monday 18 to Sunday 24 June 2018. Once again the Herts Sports Partnership are running a seven day campaign focusing on women and girls getting active through sport and physical active, no matter what their size, age or ability. Working with various partners, the Herts Sports Partnership team are excited to relaunch the This Girl Can in Herts campaign, particularly as 2018 has been designated as the Hertfordshire Year of Physical Activity. This years’ campaign focuses on four key themes; leadership, inactivity, confidence and the social side of sport and physical activity. During this week, could you run a female activity session at your club, take a friend along to a class, go on a walk after the school drop off with other mums, or volunteer at your local parkrun to help motivate others? Alex Varran, Women and Girls Project

Officer at the Partnership commented that, “Last year’s campaign, which saw over 3000 women and girls inspired to take part during the week was a huge success, and so we are delighted to be encouraging more women and girls to get active this June.” A whole host of female-friendly activities and sessions will be promoted including Back to Netball, Pickleball, ladies only swimming, yoga and Clubbercise, proving that there is something for everyone to have a go at. How will you get involved? For more information contact Alex Varran at a.varran2@herts.ac.uk or call 01707 281173.

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Colours Amber Apricot Azure Beige Black Blue Blush Bronze Brown Cerise Copper Crimson Cyan Emerald

Green Taupe Grey Teal Indigo Violet Ivory White Jade Yellow Orange Peach Pink Plum Puce Raspberry Red Rose Ruby

Find the names of colours in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase

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Health & Beauty

Top Travels New sandals and a bikini aren’t the only holiday essentials you’ll want to add to your shopping list this month. We’ve found plenty of travel-friendly health and beauty goodies to tempt you, whether you’re planning to backpack through Thailand, sightsee in Italy, or go camping in Cornwall. Towels, bucket and spade, Kindle, water, snacks… beach bags can get pretty heavy. Try decanting your suntan lotion into a smaller bottle, or pick up a travel sized one. Green People’s Scent Free Sun Lotion has an SPF of 30 and is gentle enough for all the family to use. It’s water-resistant and packed with skin-loving natural ingredients such as green tea, olive oil and avocado extract. The full size 100ml tube is £14.50, while the 30ml travel size is £6.50 from www. greenpeople.co.uk. Marks and Spencer’s also have lots of travel sized products to choose from, including this Nature’s Ingredients Lemon Shower Gel. The 50ml size costs just £1.50 and is perfect for a short break away. Planning a longer break? A bar of soap takes up less space in your suitcase than a bottle of shower gel. Check out TK Maxx for luxury bars at a budget price, or treat yourself to the gorgeously scented Geranium, Ylang Ylang & Neroli Soap by Cole & Co, which costs £4 plus delivery from www.coleandco.com.

By Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk Hotel bathrooms never seem to have enough cupboard space. Keep the clutter at bay with a wash bag that can be hung on the back of a door. This floral one from Paperchase is £15 and has three separate compartments. Pop cosmetics in one, pills and plasters in another, and lotions and potions in the third. See www.paperchase. co.uk. Hot and sticky days at the beach call for a hydrating spray. Make your own by adding a few drops of essential oil to pure rose water or a cup of green tea. Or just pick up a bottle of Crabtree & Evelyn’s La Source Refreshing Body Mist (£16). It’s cooling, revitalising and smells amazing. Think cool ocean breeze with a hint of citrus. Rich in antioxidants, it leaves skin feeling softer and more hydrated. Bliss. See www.crabtree-evelyn.co.uk. If you’re catching a 4am flight, or have a packed itinerary, you might benefit from Tisserand Aromatherapy’s Little Box of Energy. For £11.95 you get three pulse point rollerballs, each of which contains a 10ml blend of pure essential oils. Energy High, for example, is a refreshing citrusy blend of lime, grapefruit and orange leaf. Holiday still weeks away and feeling a bit stressed? There’s also a Little Box of Sleep and a Little Box of Relaxation, see www.tisserand.com.

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Personal or Group coaching 9 Different Plans to Choose

Call me for more details: 07769 977639 Or email me: teresa.bellmaine@practicallyslim.com Or go online: www.practicallyslim.com

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Local News

Gift Voucher to Fight Fatigue & Pain Most people with a long term condition can experience exhaustion and chronic pain, affecting their daily lives. Therapies available at The Herts MS Therapy Centre in Letchworth help people to fight fatigue and pain: 1. Oxygen Therapy Some people find Oxygen Therapy can accelerate healing, increase energy, reduce pain or combat stubborn infections, like leg ulcers. Some find it helpful before or after chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery. Rachel B says: “Without my Oxygen Treatment I would still be in agony from Fibromyalgia and probably jobless and depressed. I can’t begin to explain what a difference it has made for me.” 2. Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiotherapists and Personal Trainers work together to help people achieve greater mobility and reduce fatigue. Francis R has MS. She says: “I lost my confidence and needed support. The personalised exercises have restored my confidence in leading a more independent lifestyle.” 3. APS Pain Clinic Pain Reduction Therapy is an effective, drug free treatment for less pain, more energy and faster healing. Brian H attended the Pain Clinic. He explains: “I did the six week Pain Reduction Programme. I have had pain free mobility for the first time in nine months, despite moving furniture last week!” First Time Free! Who do you know who would like to have more energy or less pain? Tell them about The Herts MS Therapy Centre! Their first session is free! To find out more, visit www.hertsmstherapy.org.uk or call Claire on 01462 684 214.

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House of Colour

How to Look Effortlessly Stylish at a Wedding The English weather doesn’t exactly make it easy for you to decide what to wear to a wedding. Add to that the pressure of looking chic, yet comfortable with potentially many hours on your feet, and some of us wedding guests have a major dilemma on our hands! Here are tips on how to look effortlessly stylish at a wedding:1. Tried and tested. Unless you are the bride, never wear a new outfit for the first time to an important event such as a wedding. You don’t know whether it will be comfortable or whether it might let you down. I recall watching a beautifully dressed woman having to be carried onto a coach to get her to the wedding she was attending as her dress was too tight to climb the steps! 2. Stand out. Many wedding guests will still wear a traditional shift dress with a matching fascinator but if it suits your personality style - why not try wearing a gorgeous jumpsuit with heels instead? Be true to yourself to look and feel your best! 3. Not the time for business. Gentlemen choose a statement tie in a beautiful silk or add an interesting colour in a detail of your outfit to avoid looking like you are at a business meeting. 4. Stay warm. If you worried about staying warm and stylish in the evening try a faux fur stole, a beautiful cashmere cardigan or a statement shawl as long as it still makes you feel like a million dollars. A warm million dollars! 5. Flats Are In. There is nothing worse than watching someone struggle through a wedding in a pair of killer high heels. Have some spare flats in your bag for dancing in but make sure they still work with your outfit. 6. Don’t wear a white wedding-esque dress - Its essential to differentiate yourself from the bride and not to be in any way in competition with her. True red is the only colour that everyone can wear successfully, and it is a great colour to use as a pop if you don’t want to go all out with a block colour. 7. Natural Party Look. Wear natural looking

make up during the day but have a mineral foundation compact and a killer lipstick in one of your wow colours to re-apply before facing the photographer! Even if you don’t usually wear much make up, a gentle touch of make up in the right colours will make you look amazing for the pics. 8. Vintage – wearing something vintage can help avoid the problem of guests wearing identical outfits. Just be sure it fits well and is in your colours and style. 9. Accessorise…Accessorise! Dress up your outfit with stunning jewellery but make sure the whole look is balanced including size of hat, jewellery and bag. 10. Versatility is key. If you can’t resist buying a new outfit for that important event, then think about the future cost per wear before blowing your budget. It is tempting when invited to a wedding to rush out and buy a new outfit, but before purchasing think about how many times you are likely to wear it in the future. Alternatively have you already got a great dress that can be accessorised differently? Or buy a more versatile dress in a block colour that you could wear again and again by teaming it with other items in your wardrobe and the good news is Colour blocking is back on trend right now!

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By Jennie Billings www.houseofcolour.co.uk/ jenniebillings jennie.billings@houseofcolour.co.uk 41

WORDWHEEL

Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.

TARGET Excellent: 30 or more words Good: 25 words Fair: 21 words

R E

A I

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Discover the true value of your home. 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.

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43 04/08/2017 13:26

EBAY COLLECTIONS

Local & Reliable

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Business

Women over 50 CEOs at work and play! Did you know that many women over 50 are flouting the stereotype? Instead of retiring and ‘taking it easy’ as previous generations have done, they are reinventing and reinvigorating their lives. Many are launching their own businesses. The desire to be their own boss, create a better work/ life balance and take control of their own success drives them forward. One such local ‘olderpreneur’ Heather Aylett from Sandy, Bedfordshire, has grasped that second bite of the cherry! In 2017 at the age of 54 and already owner of her own successful children’s entertainment business A for Active, Heather launched All About Enterprise providing schools with innovative business enterprise training days, which are both stimulating and fun, utilising her lifetime passion for training whilst capitalising on her vast experience of working with children. “it’s absolutely fantastic being able to give pupils a taste of life beyond the classroom and show them that they can use their own specific talents to develop successful businesses when they are older, inspiring them to become the business leaders and entrepreneurs of the future. It’s never too early to introduce children to the world of business and as such my programmes are suitable from year 6 upwards” Launching the business was relatively straightforward (having done it all before 10 years earlier). However, Heather struggled with the isolation of not having a support network that understood her own particular needs of being a businesswoman over 50 in a very different contemporary business world.

“marketing, so vital for any business - but particularly a start-up, is a very different world these days, with new thinking, technology and social media to understand and at first I found this overwhelming. It’s so important to command an understanding of this aspect of running a business. Indeed, All About Enterprise’s signature programme is about marketing and offers school students a real life ‘Dragon’s Den/ The Apprentice type experience” Heather’s experience changed when she connected with fellow businesswoman Ali MilesJenkins, founder of The BoomBiz. The BoomBiz helps women over 50 reach their potential and gives them the confidence to take control of their own success, to achieve a profitable lifestyle and become their own boss at work and play. “it’s fantastic being part of The BoomBiz. Ali, a successful business woman in her own right is a great mentor. It’s also invaluable being part of a group of like-minded women and the support within the group is amazing” Heather has been lucky enough to be part of Ali’s K.I.M programme, which offers business support to ladies over 50 who have survived cancer and have gone on to launch a business. “I feel very honoured to be given this opportunity to take advantage of the K.I.M programme, it has been invaluable in helping me launch, develop and market my business” If you would like further information regarding All About Enterprise or The BoomBiz, please see the contact details below: www.AllAboutEnterprise.co.uk www.theboombiz.com

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VIRTUAL PA / GIRL FRIDAY

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By Suzanne Roynond

Life Coaching

I don’t want to be with my partner any more...

Hang on! You chose to be with this person originally. He or she had something really special which made you want to match your life with theirs. Did they change or did you? NB: If your partner is abusive, controlling, unstable, violent or unfaithful, unless you have made a conscious decision to stay with them, your desire to leave is entirely understandable. However, if you have children together, a successful business or maybe know deep inside there is a really strong bond worth saving, then read on…….. How often do you moan about your partner? Does it make you feel better? No! Actually, it makes you feel a lot worse, but more significantly, your attitude injects negativity into the relationship. When you groan to your friends or gripe to your mother about your partner, you actively damage the bond between you. It’s time to re-frame your thinking. Part of the life coaching process involves turning negative statements into positive intentions. These are just a few

of the transforming phrases my clients have shared; I want my partner: • To be more affectionate • To acknowledge my needs • To be kind in the words they use to me • To share responsibility for our home • To try my hobbies and interests News flash: Your partner probably wants all of those things from you too! Ouch! That stung didn’t it? Another way to damage your relationship is blaming your partner for making you feel bad. Get honest with yourself and stop believing your partner is to blame for your emotions. They aren’t! By acknowledging you have sole responsibility for your feelings you take control of your response to the situation you are in. No one can make you feel anything. You choose to allow your emotions to react in a positive or negative way. Once you get the hang of that little gem, every part of life becomes a whole lot better. When you take responsibility for

your thoughts, words, and feelings and cancel your subscription to the blame game, you may realise your partner still has that special something! This is a great time to assess what you are putting into the relationship and restore the balance you’ve been missing. If you want them to be affectionate, show them some affection. If you want a better sex life, be a considerate and caring lover to them. If you want your partner to listen to you, start by paying attention to them. By changing your perspective you allow the energy in the relationship to shift into a more positive place and give your partner space to be the person you fell in love with. Keep it up and you might just realise the relationship really does matter to you both. Even if ultimately the relationship ends, you will have learned a valuable lesson about taking personal responsibility for your words, thoughts and emotions which will help all areas of your life.

Suzanne Roynon is a personal performance life coach. www.yoursuccess.coach

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Garden View

Totally Tropical The ‘greenhouse effect’ is an environmental hot topic. And it’s true that despite the grim winter of 2017-18 we’ve generally been experiencing milder conditions in recent years. I’ve certainly started to experiment with more exotic plants. It’s a little risky; one hard winter can wipe out a tender specimen. But between now and September there’s every chance that many tropical plants will survive if planted out in our gardens. They need a sunny sheltered spot, like the one you would choose for petunias, tobacco plants and rose beds. Try Cannas. They have luxuriant broad spearshaped leaves, which can be deep green, purple or even striped with orange or yellow. They produce vibrant flowers which look like gladioli but better! Or how about planting scarlet dahlias like ‘Bishop of Llandaff’, which also sports attractive bronze foliage. A big clump of African marigolds provides a blaze of fiery colour. Or try tender perennial salvias in colours which range from magenta through to scarlet and deep purples and blues. They won’t survive the first winter frosts but they an easy to propagate from shoot-cuttings which can be over-wintered in a cool greenhouse ready for the following spring.

Verbena bonariensis produces tall wands of dainty lilac flowers. They self-seed freely, which is great if you consider that a bonus in a plant (I do) but maybe avoid this one if self-seeding bothers you. You could even try a banana plant. The variety “Musa Banjo” is wonderfully architectural, and though it does not produce fruit it will create impact. Plant in a large pot and let its fan-like leaves create fabulous shadows on the patio. It hails from Japan originally and loves sunshine, but it is hardy to -6C so perfect for the suburban UK climate. Do note that in winter the leaves naturally die back and turn brown. I thought I’d killed mine the first year, but the leaves grow back quickly in the spring. The Honey Bush (Melianthus major) is a terrific half-hardy foliage specimen with its 50cm long grey-green deeply serrated leaves, which look as though they’ve been cut with pinking shears. Some of these plants will survive a British Winter with protection but it’s probably best to treat your ‘tropical’ border as a temporary display. Experiment and have fun creating your very own suburban rainforest.

By Rachael Leverton

Happy Gardening

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Gardening & Wildlife

Rural Ramblings A Little Beauty

Our gardens can provide us with a place to escape from world of indoor living with all itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s associated artificiality and offers opportunities to experience a softer and slower paced existence. Gardens also can offer significant habitation for all sorts of wildlife which adds greatly to the interest. Spring time allows us to appreciate just how resilient plants and animals are to the harsh conditions of winter as they burst into life again and start to re-grow and proliferate. As the day-length increases, our bird-life responds by becoming more vociferous and the early morning is a time to really appreciate just how varied and melodic their songs can be. The song-thrush, blackbird and robin are all great contributors to the dawn chorus and the tiny wren can certainly make itself heard with itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s powerful song. During the day, the contrast between the joyful skylark and the less than pleasant screams of the jay is a reminder just how varied bird sounds can be. This Spring I have been impressed by seemingly increase in numbers of a favourite songster which I believe is mainly a spring and summer visitor. This year, I seem to have heard itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s song everywhere and I have been particularly impressed and urge you to listen out for them. This bird is a kind of warbler and the male has a sooty black cap hence the name Blackcap! I am not sure if the female sings and she has a brown head just to be different!

The song is so clear, strong and melodic and is rated second only to the wellknown nightingale, which seems to be a later visitor and not so common? I love listening to the blackcap as he sings away advertising his presence. The variety of notes which this little bird can generate is truly impressive and their singing adds an extra dimension to any garden. I would love to have them visit and sing all year-round but unfortunately April and May seem to be their main active months. Mr. Blackcap, you have an open invitation to visit my garden any time. I just hope that he comes to yours as well!

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

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BICKERDIKES

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Garden

Creative Containers Colourful containers are a welcome sight in any garden, and pots, planters and troughs can transform a dull back yard or a gloomy terrace or patio. Plus, wacky and more unusual planters can easily be created with a little imagination and ingenuity. Plastic flower pots can be transformed by wrapping them in hessian. Available in a range of colours from classic pale brown to reds, greens and blues, it’s weather-tolerant and tough but looks great. Plastic pots are more exciting with a bit of planting around the sides, so cut holes just over an inch in diameter at regular intervals around the sides to create a planter perfect for small bedding plants. Fill with compost to the base of the lowermost holes, add plants through the holes, add more compost to the next layer of holes and continue upwards, finishing off with plenty of colour on the top. Acrylic paints are ideal to colour a boring or discoloured container. Use a single colour to match existing garden features, or the colour of your front door or window frames, or design a pattern of wild, fantastic colours for a planted-up art gallery. Mosaic tiles from your local craft or hobby store can be used to cover a container, or if time is short to just make a mosaic rim. Use rich colours to make a Moroccan style pot. Protect it when winter comes by placing it in a frost-free spot, unless you use the grouting adhesive used for swimming pools to make it more weather resistant. Old tyres filled with compost make ideal planters, and can be stacked to make deeper versions. Trailing flowers – such as trailing geraniums – cascading over the edges give a really striking effect. An aged wheelbarrow is great for a larger display or permanent planting. If there are no holes in the pan of the barrow, place a layer of gravel or stones in the base so that the compost does not become waterlogged. An old wellington boot makes a stylish planter. Fill the foot and ankle area with gravel or grit for drainage, add compost and plant up the top. Acrylic paints can jazz up a boring pair of wellies, but make sure the paint is dry before you start planting.

Old gardening, walking or work boots have planting potential too, and because they have heavier soles and are lower to the ground they are useful in a less-sheltered place. Plant up with bright bedding, or for a long-term display use a few house-leeks or sempervivums – their fleshy rosettes of leaves in shades of green and purple look great! An old kitchen or bathroom sink can be put to good use; either remove the plug to provide drainage or fix it firmly in place with sealant to make a miniature water garden. I’ve even seen a loo cistern packed full of trailing plants including blue and white lobelia and trailing silvery foliage plants. The mass of blue, white and silver made a great waterfall of colour from an otherwise boring water closet. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood. com and you’ll find some great gardening items: Nemaslug, green controls for leatherjackets, chafer grubs, ants and greenfly, plus garden plant supports, raised bed kits, Easy-Tunnels, gardening tools, Grower Frames, signed books and more. You can even book Pippa for a gardening talk!

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Rehoming Appeal

Local News

Buddy

Buddy is a 2 year old neutered male cat who, as a tiny kitten in Spain, was ferociously attached by feral cats. He was rescued by a kind lady who brought him back to England to live with her and her two other rescue cats. Unfortunately, although her other cats were friendly, Buddy could not get over his fear of other cats in the house and was very unhappy. Reluctantly the lady thought Buddy would be happier if he had a home of his own with no other pets. He is very friendly towards people and loves to play have a cuddle on someone’s lap. He is vaccinated, microchipped and has his pet passport and is just waiting for someone to give him that special home where he will feel safe and have lots of love. If you would like to find out more about this lovely boy, please contact Liz on 01767 681157. Alternatively, please e-mail Philippa at info.rats@gmail.com who will be pleased to forward your enquiry on to the team. View other cats, dogs and small mammals currently in our care for re-homing on our website: www.rats-animalrescue.co.uk or facebook: www.facebook.com/ratscharity You can also see photographs and details of the animals in our care in our charity shop in Hitchin Street, Biggleswade SG18 8AX. Open Monday to Saturday from 10.00 am until 4.00 pm.

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Pets

Ask Alan

What is my cat telling me? Cats’ body language is subtler than dogs’, so it can be harder to tell what they are thinking. If cats are stressed or fearful they may hide or climb up furniture, but they can be harder to read in normal situations. As they are solitary animals, they have not developed all the communication techniques used by dogs (pack animals). What do you recognise in your cat? Tail: Raised with curled end – happy. Twitching – excited or worried. Straight up with arched back – aggression. Slightly lowered – nervous and very low tail means fear. Eyes: Wide open pupils – playfulness or aggression (watch the tail). Direct eye contact – trust and slow blinking means they are calm and comfortable Head: Raised nose and tilted head – they have seen a new

person or animal and are reserving judgement. Flattened ears generally indicates worry (when they are exposed to a new sight or smell), or may indicate aggression (watch the tail). Rubbing: Rubbing against you with body or face – they like having you around. Head butting – friendliness. Licking or attempting to groom you – you are part of the family Vocalising: Light mewing – excited to see you. Mixed mew and purr – wanting something (check the food and water bowl). Low mew (growl) – very irritated. Purring may mean they are either very happy and relaxed, or they are stressed and trying to calm themselves (watch the tail and ears). With a bit of observation, you can learn to read your cats thoughts! 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.

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BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS A Very Brown Hedge Indeed Aphids are one of the most common and troublesome of all garden insect pests. They attack a large number of garden plants throughout the country and are recently causing much disfigurement to ornamental conifer hedges. Commonly known as Greenfly and Blackfly, these aphids feed on hedges, sucking the sap of the plant and can spread several viruses, causing severe dieback. Cypress Aphid is currently troublesome and pre-dominantly affects conifer hedging. Damage inflicted on conifer hedges by the aphid Cinara cupressi is severe and can lead to large brown patches on the hedge. This leads to localised foliage death, reducing the aesthetic look of the hedge. As the aphid is active from May to October it is important to catch this problem early and apply treatments to stop its spread. At the first sign of brown patches call us for a free consultation and professional advice.

Tree & Shrub Pruning l Planting l Tree Removal l Stump Grinding l Hedge Cutting Health & Safety Reports l Disease & Insect Control

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Pets

Animal Heroes Shocking cruelty – happening on your doorstep

Our RSPCA Inspectors, Animal Welfare Officers and Animal Collection Officers do amazing work in Bedfordshire. In 2017 alone, they visited and investigated 1,470 complaints! That’s four new animal welfare concerns every day. This shocking figure makes Bedfordshire the 10th cruelest county in the South East. Such information has been released as part of the RSPCA’s annual Cruelty Statistics. These show that, nationally, 143,760 complaints about animal welfare were investigated in 2017 alone. Among the cases, investigated by the RSPCA in Bedfordshire last year, were four dogs who sadly died after they were shut away in a room for four weeks without food and water. The most calls received in Bedfordshire related to dogs (870), cats (392) and equines (130). The scale of the problem is worth repeating. That’s in just one year. The RSPCA’s staff are constantly stretched to their limits as they try and help all the suffering, sick and dying animals in the county. Many readers will be surprised to read this. We are in 2018 – yet the awful incidents of cruelty still, sadly, continue. Although this is clearly emotionally draining work, the staff and volunteers at the RSPCA keep focused on the fact that they are rescuing these animals from horrific neglect or brutal cruelty – and giving them a second chance. The RSPCA North Bedfordshire Branch is a small,

local animal charity – which helps to transform the lives of thousands of animals in Bedfordshire each year. However, the public also plays a vital role too – by reporting cruelty and supporting our efforts to raise funds. Much needed funds are created by donating to the charity shop in Bedford, buying from it, leaving a legacy in your will, Gift Aiding donations or donating to street collections. Additional volunteers are always welcome too – whether it’s helping in the shop, fostering cats or helping on a stall at a local fete. If you feel uncomfortable or shocked reading this – we are sorry. But, please think about how you can help prevent, and ease, the horrific cruelty that may be happening closer than you think. If you are concerned about an animal’s welfare, you can report this to the RSPCA’s cruelty line on 0300 1234 999 (24-hours) or online on rspca.org.uk More information, and fundraising packs, can be also 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

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Children aged between 0 - 5 years

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Motoring

10 electric vehicle myths busted Confusion surrounds the running and operation of an electric car. Here, we try to clear that up. 1. You can’t boil the kettle while charging an electric car A National Grid report warned that home networks might struggle to cope with high-capacity car charging. However, EV owners with a lowcapacity home network wouldn’t have a high-capacity charger, so there’s little chance of the network being overloaded. 2. EVs are more expensive than petrol and diesel cars Generally, the base price of an EV will be slightly more expensive, but manufacturers compensate by offering a generous specification so that with the government’s £4,500 zero-emission vehicle grant taken into account, they’re a pretty good deal, plus have low running costs. What’s more, as EV technology becomes more prevalent, costs will reduce – the new Nissan Leaf starts at £1,500 less than the old one. 3. They’re more likely to catch fire in a crash Concerns about crash safety are

largely driven by a couple of highprofile Tesla Model S fires in 2013. The EV maker upgraded its underbody battery pack protection in 2014 but also noted that the odds of fires in its cars were “five times lower than those of an average gasoline car”. 4. You can’t drive them in car washes or when it’s raining Water and electricity don’t mix, so manufacturers carefully seal all of the electrified components to make sure there aren’t any problems using car washes, or driving or charging in the rain. 5. You can’t go very far Most electric vehicles now have a range in excess of 150 miles, with 200 miles becoming the norm – and the average journey is less than nine miles. 6. There’s nowhere to charge them Long trips require a bit more planning, but charge point locator Zap Map indicates there are almost 15,000 connectors at more than 5,000 locations in the UK, with more added all the time. Plus, rapid chargers can provide 80 per cent of charge in about 30 minutes.

7. The batteries don’t last very long Batteries do have a finite life but most manufacturers offer battery leasing for a monthly fee and will replace it for free when needed. Others offer replacement warranties, with five- to eight-year cover the norm. 8. EVs are less environmentally friendly across their life cycle The energy required to build an electric car can make it less environmentally friendly to produce than a traditionally fuelled car. However, a Norwegian study quoted by the BBC estimates an EV is about 10 per cent better over its life cycle, and that will continue to improve. 9. Battery disposal poses a huge environmental issue It does, but the EV boom has encouraged lateral thinking to improve recycling rates, with companies taking used EV batteries for use elsewhere, such as home energy storage. 10. They’re boring to drive Modern electric cars can be genuinely fun to drive, particularly thanks to the high-torque motors, which make acceleration brisk. Tesla takes this to extremes with its Model S, which reaches 60mph in less than three seconds – comparable to the new McLaren Senna supercar, with its petrolpowered twin-turbo V8.

By James Baggott 62

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Local News

Bedford Model Engineering Society From time to time you hear about that “best kept open secret” or a “hidden gem” that everyone should know about and here is another example. The Summerfields Railways can be found just off the A600 at Haynes between Bedford and Sheffield. The Bedford Model Engineering Society is based here and operate a variety of miniature engines for their own and visitor’s pleasure. Mainly railway engines but all types are welcome. Members get together to share experiences and skills on a weekly basis to build, run, service and repair the engines but also to assist in the maintenance of the entire club. Several times a year the club runs what is called a public running day when members of the public get the opportunity to ride on the miniature trains in and on a variety of coaches pulled by the engines. If you are interested in becoming a member or a volunteer there is plenty of scope for all people, as well as engineers and railway enthusiasts, to have

a place in helping to keep the club running for the enjoyment of all. Have a look at the website www. bedfordmes.co.uk or look at and like the Facebook page. If you like it then tell your Facebook and Twitter followers to have a look. It’s a great day out so take the whole family, with picnic areas, a buffet and plenty of space for the children and dogs to have fun. High chairs are available in the buffet for really little people.

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Three Counties Radio

CHERRY BAKEWELL TART I cannot resist a sweet treat, and luckily we have them every week on the Weekend Kitchen. This sumptuous Bakewell Tart was created by a highly talented young local cake maker and pastry chef called Victoria Chidgey. She set up her business, Little Tring Cakes, after several stints in top London businesses – and the pastry recipe here was given to her by a chef at the Savoy Hotel when she was 16 years old. She swears by it, and it creates an incredibly light, flaky and moreish tart. You’ll need 1 x 9” Pie Mould / Tart Ring or a 12 whole bun tray with round pastry cutter. Pastry: 340g Flour 225g Butter 110g Golden Caster Sugar 1 Egg Frangipane: 120g Butter 120g Golden Caster Sugar 120g Ground Almonds 2 Eggs 1 teaspoon Almond Essence 25ml Brandy (if you have it knocking about) Filling: 125g Black Cherry Compote Topping: Flaked Almonds Icing Sugar (Golden is best but it doesn’t matter too much)

1. Preheat the oven to 160C, 140C Fan, Gas Mark 3. 2. Beat the butter with the sugar until it is well incorporated and has lightened in colour. 3. Scrape the bowl and add the flour. Beat on a low speed and, when the flour is just incorporated, add the egg. Keep mixing until it all comes together. 4. Wrap the pastry in clingfilm and leave in the fridge for an hour or so, or in the freezer for 15-25 minutes. The recipe is enough pastry for two tarts so you can freeze whatever you don’t use. 5. For the frangipane, melt the butter in the microwave until it is very soft but still holds its shape. 6. Mix in the sugar with a wooden spoon and lightly beat for around 3 minutes. 7. Add the ground almonds and brandy and mix until incorporated. Add the egg and beat for 1-2 minutes. 8. Roll out the pastry to approximately 3mm thick. 9. Line the tart case. Push the pastry into the corners and then use your fingers in an upward motion. If you have opted to do smaller individual tartlets, use a round cutter to cut a disk of pastry and line the bun holes. 10. Trim away any excess pastry with a sharp paring knife, leaving a slight lip if possible. Prick the bottom of the tart with a fork. Patch up any imperfections with pastry using your thumb. 11. Spread the cherry compote on the bottom of the tart case and place in the fridge or freezer. This prevents any of the filling bleeding through the frangipane. 12. Using a piping bag or the back of a hot spoon, spread the frangipane on top of the compote to just below the rim of the pastry. Scatter flaked almonds on top and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes. Once out of the oven dust the top with icing sugar while still warm. 13. Serve with brandy cream or crème fraiche mixed with some lemon zest.

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.

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Travel

By Solange Hando

Milan Cathedral Among the largest churches in the world, the Duomo rises on a magnificent square at the heart of Milan. It is dedicated to St Mary of the Nativity, an iconic landmark which took almost 600 years to complete. The last gate was inaugurated in 1965. Work began in the late 14th century by the church of St Maria Maggiore. Foundations were laid for three naves, soon increased to five as both the local bishop and duke aimed to raise the city to new heights. A canal network was designed to transport material. Gothic architecture would rival the great cathedrals in northern Europe but flexibility and innovations were welcome. Marble was used, foreign architects, artists and craftsmen joined the Italian team, and on this ancient pagan site building progressed unusually, from back to front. It started with the apse while the façade of St Maria Maggiore remained in use until 1682. The new one was only completed in the 1800s by order of Napoleon. Elegant buildings line the vast panoramic square but all lead the eye to the Duomo, stretching 92 x 158 metres. Inside are 98 gargoyles, 135 spires and over 3,400 statues which found their niche around the cathedral. The pink-hued marble of Candoglia cleverly hides the brickwork, playing all day long with light and shade to take your breath away. The main bronze door greets visitors with stunning bas-reliefs, while the 18th century sundial is still used to set the clocks around town. Large enough for 40,000 people, the interior is striking, with five broad naves supported by 40 columns. At 45 metres, the central aisle is the highest in a finished Gothic church and is

decorated with impressive stained glass windows. Up above the apse, a small red light marks the holy place where a nail from the cross is kept. On the Feast of the Holy Cross in mid-September, the archbishop of Milan is slowly hoisted up in an angel-decorated basket to bring the relic down for display. Statues, frescoes, sarcophagi, pulpits and the largest organ in Italy, but most famous is the 16th century statue of St Bartholomew Flayed, a sad disturbing figure by Marco d’Agrate. More enticing are the three superb altars by Pelligrino Tibaldi, who was appointed by archbishop Borromeo to lighten up the old Gothic style with the flourishing Italian Renaissance. Visitors could easily spend an hour or more in the cathedral but most exciting of all is the rooftop walk. Beyond the first terrace accessed by a lift are narrow passageways and slippery steps up to the wide open space of a safe but steeply-slanted roof. Up there, above pinnacles, flying buttresses and statues, the golden Madonna rises on the very top to bless the city at her feet. Views are superb and in clear weather the Alps are visible. It’s the perfect place to reflect on this unique building and the work of so many architects and artists over the centuries. Mark Twain described it as ‘so grand, so solemn, so vast’ and across the square, on the equestrian statue flanked by lions, Victor Emmanuel II, first king of the newly united Italy, seems to approve.

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Technology

Here comes summer: Tech for outdoor living

The technology that can get your garden ready for summer It’s amazing to think that we were still getting snow back in March: just weeks later and it’s June, which even the UK usually manages to get through without any blizzards. Who knows, we might even get a long hot summer this time – and if we do, technology is happy to help. If you’re planning to party on the summer equinox, the longest day of the year, it’s worth getting some long-lasting gadgets such as the UE Boom 2 portable speaker. It’s loud but not too loud, portable but not too small, and it’s waterproof because it’s sold in Britain. At around £93 it’s pricier than many but is solid, sounds great and is well made – plus the battery lasts for 15 hours of tunes from a single charge. It’s a really great speaker for outdoor entertaining. If you’re barbecuing, technology can help. The superb Looftlighter (around £45 on eBay or £55 in the shops) can ensure charcoal lights instead of smokes, and a BBQ thermometer can make sure food is properly cooked.

We love the Thermapen instant read thermometer (around £50) but for an even more high-tech option there are Bluetoothenabled meat thermometers that send readings to your smartphone so you don’t even need to lift the lid. Weber’s excellent iGrill 3 (£89.99) is one of the best around, but there are more affordable options too. There’s a new entry in the outdoor lighting market: Philips, which has brought its Hue smart lighting system to gardens too. We love Hue for its ability to create all kinds of light “recipes” and effects and to do so from a phone or tablet, and you can now mix 16 million different colours outdoors too. The catch, inevitably, is cost: the wallmountable Lily spotlight is about £260 and the pedestal lamp around £125. It might be worth waiting for rivals to follow Philips’ lead: Hue-style indoor bulbs are widely available for a lot less than Philips chargers and we’d expect the same to happen with outdoor lighting too. Don’t try and cut corners with normal Hue bulbs in standard lamp fittings

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unless those fittings are large and properly waterproof. They might not work anyway: your home’s exterior walls may block the connection between the lights and the Hue hub, which has to be connected to your internet router. Sadly, living in the UK means even a warm day doesn’t stay too warm for long, and many of us turn to outdoor heating. Don’t buy a heater that heats the air; it’s a waste of money, because most of the energy goes on heating the air nobody’s actually in. Gas heaters are the least efficient: consider a modern infra-red (not near-infra-red) electric heater, which heats the surfaces it’s pointed at (including people), or a halogen one if you don’t want to spend a few hundred pounds. A good tabletop or free-standing halogen heater doesn’t cost too much to buy or run – about 9p per kilowatt hour, with heaters starting at around £39 – but make sure your seating area is sheltered as a stiff breeze can undo the work of any outdoor heater.

Health By Louise Addison

Never too Early Book an eye examination for your child A child’s development and learning can be hindered by undiagnosed or uncorrected sight defects, so early and regular eye examinations are essential to give them the best chance of succeeding in their education. Rapid visual development takes place between birth and 3-4 years of age. Many visual defects such as long-sight (hyperopia), short-sight (myopia), a turning eye (strabismus) or a rugby ball-shaped eye (astigmatism) can be inherited. Most visual problems are treated better if they are diagnosed early on. It’s not necessary to wait until a child can read the letters on a conventional chart before taking them for an eye examination. Special picture charts and tests can be used and it’s quite possible to take certain measurements without any interaction from the child at all. Doctors, health visitors and some school nurses will carry out rudimentary vision checks, but only an optometrist will be able to provide a comprehensive accurate assessment. Here are some signs to look out for but it’s important to say that some children show no signs of anything being wrong at all, yet they may still have a serious underlying vision defect. • Frequent eye rubbing • Dark circles under the eyes • Obvious discomfort in bright sunshine • Watery eyes

• One eye larger than the other • One or both eyes turning inwards or outwards, even if it’s only sometimes • A white pupil visible in family photos, particularly where flash has been used • Holding books very close • Aversion to reading • Sitting right next to the TV • Red-rimmed eyes, or sore-looking eyelids • Excessive blinking • Short attention span for close-up tasks • Poor eye-hand co-ordination It might sound obvious but choose an optometrist who likes children (not all of them do!) and who puts them at ease. When you go into the practice there should be children’s books or possibly a toy or two available to keep them occupied while they wait. A child-friendly optometrist will understand if your toddler wants to run around the room periodically or alternatively doesn’t want to engage at all. If your child has special needs such as autism or anxiety and needs to visit the practice to see the room and meet the staff before attending for an appointment this should be an option. Choose someone you feel comfortable with and your child will probably feel comfortable too. Your child’s sight is precious. Book and eye examination today.

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n O s ’ t Wha 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 June Lego Club 3.45-5.00pm Potton Library Every Friday afternoon. 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 June Sandy Ukulele Group 7-9pm Baptist Chapel Hall, Bedford Road, Sandy Meets every Friday. Email: sandyukulelegroup1@gmail.com Web: www.sandyukulelegroup.com 1, 15 & 29 June 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. Web: www.facebook.com/craftandchatter 2 June 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 is required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom. Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 2 June Another Mad Hatley Tea Party for Charity 11am-5pm Free entry The Tea Party will again be in the garden of the Village Farmhouse, in Cockayne Hatley. The last Tea Party was a roaring success and made a lot of money for charity. There will be refreshments, sales of plants, bric-a-brac, cakes, etc. and a tombola. The proceeds will be divided between St. John the Baptist Church and Parkinson’s UK. All welcome.

5 June 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. 5 June Potton Ladies Club 7.30pm 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 5, 12, 19 & 26 June 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. Visitors always welcome. Tel: Sarah 07842 101799 Email: pro@phoenixladies.co.uk Web: https://phoenixladies.co.uk to watch us perform

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

In June

6 June Glebe House Garden 2pm Glebe House Garden, Southill £15 inc. afternoon tea. Exclusively for the Friends & Guests of All Saints Church. Visit the delightful Glebe House Garden by kind permission of Sir Samuel and Lady Whitbread. Followed by special afternoon tea at Southill Church. Parking available. Sorry no dogs. Tel: Nico Rodenburg 01462 811927, Brian Pexton 01767 317031 or Alan Dover 01234 838994 for tickets Web: www.allsaintschurchsouthill.org.uk 6, 13, 20 & 27 June Moo Music Sandy, Biggleswade & Shefford 10-10.40am Sandy Methodist Church Moosical fun for your little one! Music & movement classes for 0-5 year olds. Come and join in the fun with your little moover. First session free. Tel: 07981 825654 Email: Heather sandymoo@moo-music.co.uk Web: www.moo-music.co.uk/sbs Facebook: www.facebook.com/moomusicsandy 6, 13, 20 & 27 June 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

5, 12, 19 & 26 June 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. 7 June Visitors Welcome. Email: IvelBC@hotmail.com Cancer Support Group Biggleswade and Area Facebook: Facebook.com/IvelBC 1-3pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade 6 June The group meets on the 1st Thursday of the month. 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 June Aircraft Enthusiasts’ Group Has cancer touched your life? All are welcome to KNex Club 1.45-3.30pm Potton Library 1pm Princess Charlotte Room, Shuttleworth attend this support group - recently diagnosed, Visitors £7 inc. raffle ticket undergoing treatment, cancer survivors, caregivers, 4, 11, 18 & 25 June The Group meets on the first Wednesday of every family and friends. Please note new venue. For Branch Out Social Club for Single People month. Greg Baughen will give a talk on ‘Dowding, additional information or to chat before attending, 8.30-11pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Portal and the Battle of France’. Make it a good day please call Gina. Tel: Gina 07812 796581 Branch Out meets every Monday night and is a out by enjoying lunch in the Shuttleworth restaurant Web: www.cancersupportgroup.org.uk medium-sized Social Club for single people. It was before the meeting. Lots of free parking. formed in 1995 to bring together single, divorced, Email: 99aegr@gmail.com 7, 14, 21 & 28 June widowed and separated people, aged 40 upwards, Web: www.a-e-g.org.uk Moo Music Sandy, Biggleswade & Shefford from the Herts, Beds and Bucks area, to socialise and 10-10.40am Sutton Village Hall enjoy one another’s company. The club organises 6, 13, 20 & 27 June Music & movement classes for 0-5 year olds. Come regular events, such as dinners, discos, meals, Mums and Dads Coffee Morning and join in the fun with your little moover. First parties, Sunday walks, theatre and concert visits, day 9-10am Moggerhanger Church session free. Tel: 07981 825654 and weekend trips and holidays. Bring your pre-school children with you. Toys Email: Heather sandymoo@moo-music.co.uk Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 available in the church. Tea/coffee, juice, biscuits are Web: www.moo-music.co.uk/sbs Web: www.branch-out.org.uk available at 50p per cup. Facebook: www.facebook.com/moomusicsandy

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n O s ’ t Wha In June

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

7, 14, 21 & 28 June 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. Tel: Ann 01767 650630 or Carole 01767 260815

16 June Sutton Lower School Summer Fete 2018 12-4pm Sutton Lower School Arena display, bouncy castle, games, great external stalls and raffle prizes. BBQ and refreshments.

16 & 17 June A Floral Celebration of the Church’s Year Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12 noon-4pm All Saints Church, Upper Caldecote The Flower Guild welcomes all to this wonderful 9 June display in the Church which is part of their 150th Southill Lower School Quiz Night 7pm for 7.30pm Anniversary Celebrations. Southill Parish Hall, Stanford Road, Southill £5 per person. Teams of up to 8 - come as a full team 17 June or team up with others on the night. Bring your own Father’s Day Afternoon Tea drinks and snacks. Prizes for the winning and losing Sittings at 1pm or 2.30pm teams. Tel: 01462 843312 to register The House at Shuttleworth, Old Warden Park, Nr Biggleswade 9 June Adults £25.95, Children £10.95. Say thank you Hitchin Band Concert to your dad and treat him to our home-baked 7.30pm St. Swithun’s Church, Sandy savoury afternoon tea in the grand setting of The Tickets £5. Concert with the award-winning Hitchin House at Shuttleworth. Formerly the home of the Band in aid of The Leprosy Mission. Tickets available Shuttleworth family, the House will be open for in advance from Sandy Town Council Information viewing, with room stewards on hand to tell you Office, Colin Osborne or on the door. more about the history of the family and Old Warden Tel: Colin Osborne 01767 682032 Park. Pre-book only. Ticket includes a glass of ale, wine or sparkling wine. Tel: 01767 627965 9 June Email: events@shuttleworth.org Performers & Pints Web: www.shuttleworth.org/events/afternoon8.30pm for 9pm Start - 11.30pm tea-june The Rising Sun, 11 Everton Road, Potton A great community night out of fresh live music for 23, 26 & 29 June all. Three music acts: Sophie Kitchener, Kelvin Davies Vineyard Tour & Tasting 10.30am-2pm and Viana Bay. Warden Abbey Vineyard, Old Warden Facebook: www.facebook.com/performerspints Adults £10, Friends of Warden Abbey Vineyard + 1 Twitter: @PerformersPints guest £6, Accompanied children free The volunteers at Warden Abbey Vineyard, near Old 10 June Warden, are doubling the number of public vineyard Beeston Open Gardens 2pm-6pm tours and tastings this year, including more Saturday Adults £4, Children free. Ten gardens will be open. tours. As well as general tours, the “Walking in the Programmes will be available at each open garden Monks’ Footsteps” walk around the vineyard on 29 and there’s ample car parking at the north end of June is led by volunteer Margaret Roberts who is the village. Plant stall, raffle tickets and delicious writing a book on the history of the abbey. On the refreshments served all afternoon. All proceeds go walk, as well as telling the story of the abbey, she’ll to the local community and national charities. interpret the landscape features surrounding the Web: www.beestonopengardens.org.uk vineyard and what they reveal about the life of the abbey’s occupants. Advance booking essential. 11 June Web: www.wardenvineyard.org.uk Sandy Flower Club 7.30pm Visitors £5 – on the door. Conservative Bowls Club 23 June Pavilion (rear of the Conservative Club, Bedford Allison House Summer Fête Road). Raffle and tea and coffee. The Flower Club 2-4pm Swan Lane, Sandy meets every second Monday in the month. New Cakes & bakes, tombola, gifts & cards, tableboot, members always welcome. books, DVDs, BBQ and refreshments and more. All Tel: Sue Alexander 01767 699729 welcome. Proceeds to the Residents’ Amenity Fund.

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24 June Haynes Village 100 Classic Vehicle Show 11am-5pm Haynes Village Hall/Playing Field Adults £3, Under 16s free. Vehicle display and parade at 2pm. Sheep dog display, dancing from Haynes Lower School, Morris Dancers, fun dog show, craft & trade stalls, children’s go karts, fun fair, refreshments & bar on the field and inside the hall. Web: www.thehaynesvillage100.org.uk 28 June ‘The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes’ Gates open 6pm, Performance 7pm The Swiss Garden, Old Warden, Nr Biggleswade Adults £16, Children £10, Family (2a+2c) £46 Picnic with family and friends in the picturesque surroundings of the Swiss Garden and lose yourself in this gripping tale. Bring a low-backed chair and wrap up warm - even summer evenings get chilly! Groups of 10 or more will receive a 10% discount. Tel: 01767 627933 Email: enquiries@shuttleworth.org Web: www.shuttleworth.org/events/sherlockholmes 28 June-1 July Dunton’s Big Weekender 2018 Various venues in Dunton. The long weekend aims to help local organisations fundraise and create enjoyable outings for all the family, with lots of things for everyone to participate in and see. Tel: Janice Pritchett 01767 318121 Email: janice.pritchett@outlook.com 30 June Pottery Painting Workshop 10am-12.30pm & 1.30-4pm The Swiss Garden, Old Warden, Nr Biggleswade Adults £25, Children (10-16 years) £15 Led by local ceramic artist Eve Carroll and drawing inspiration from the wonderful surroundings of the Swiss Garden, this creative art session will focus on nature, wildlife and some of the 18th century architectural elements found in the garden. Participants will be encouraged to sketch out a design based on their own particular interests, and will learn how to transfer those drawings onto tiles using ceramic paint. Once the paint is applied, the tiles will be left to dry and coated with a layer of transparent glaze back at Eve’s studio – they can then be collected from the Visitor Centre at Shuttleworth after a 2-week period. Refreshments and all materials are included in the cost of the workshop. Tel: 01767 627933 for more information Email: enquiries@shuttleworth.org. Web: www.shuttleworth.org/events/ potterypainting-workshop/

Motoring

Iconic Routes: The North Coast 500 Italy has the St Bernard Pass (made famous in the opening scene of ‘The Italian Job’). America has Route 66 of course. And Scotland? Well, that has the North Coast 500. Winding for 16 miles over the 500 that gives the route its name, it was the 2015 brainchild of the North Highland Initiative to create a tourist driving loop around the uppermost part of mainland Scotland. And it’s on my bucket list to drive this year. Driven clockwise, or anti, the accepted start/ end-point is Inverness, a beautiful city and worth exploring before the drive. From there you take the A862 to Mull of Ord, before choosing clockwise and westward on the A832 to Applecross, or taking the A9 northbound to John O‘Groats if you prefer the opposite way. Either way, you will travel through some of the most stunning scenery the UK has to offer: in the southern section, looping roads

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with near-vertical mountains on either side, and surprisingly flat, almost East-Anglian pasture-like highways in the north around Thurso. And the beaches up there are something to behold too. How long it takes is up to you (cyclists have ridden it in 31 hours!) but speed is not the point: it’s the journey that matters. Just writing about it makes me want to jump in the car and drive the ‘500 right now! The only detrimental thing I can see is its increasing popularity. We go to the Highlands to get away from it all, yet it could be a victim of its own success and turn into Scotland’s M25. So, let’s keep its secret to ourselves, eh? www.visitscotland.com/see-do/tours/drivingroad-trips/north-coast-500/

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Parenting

By Sarah Davey

Cyber Bullying Although playground bullying is not new it’s nature has changed with the advent of smart phones and social media. Now we see more cyber bullying, or rather we don’t see it as it tends to be hidden and carried out in secret. Almost half of all young people say they have been bullied online and more than 70% say they’ve seen it happening. As parents it can be difficult to know what to do if your child is being bullied, or conversely is a bully. Here are some tips: Discuss bullying with your child from an early age. Discuss netiquette. Adults sometimes behave more aggressively when they are behind the safety of a computer screen, and it’s the same for children, who are still learning to navigate the online world. Make it clear that being a target is not their fault. Make it clear that whether it’s in real life or online bullying is never acceptable. Advise your child to protect their phone number

by only giving it out to trusted friends or family members. Tell them to keep track of who they have given it to. If your child has received a bullying message, tell them to screenshot it and send it to you. Make a note of the time and date it was sent and the number it came from, as evidence to show teachers or police. Do not respond to the message. The phone number or email will probably identify the source. If the bully gets no response then they tend to stop doing it. Don’t panic if your child is the bully. It doesn’t mean they will grow into a terrible human being. But bullying behaviour can often be a cry for help. Perhaps they are finding the teen years more stressful than they are letting on. Maybe they are struggling to negotiate friendships and schoolwork. Make time to talk with them, not only about their own issues but about the impact they might be having on someone else’s life.

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Codeword 1

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Suduko

Hard Suduko

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Local News

Rotary Club

Sandy Rotary Club Meets every Thursday lunchtime at The Anchor, Great Barford at 12.15pm for 12.45 pm lunch. For further information go to the website: www.sandyrotary.org.uk Secretary, john@wrycroft.co.uk Biggleswade Ivel Rotary Club Meets at the Green Man in Stanford, SG18 9JD, just outside Shefford, every Wednesday at 7pm for 7.15pm. For further information contact: Secretary, Jan Hichisson, 01462 700482. www.rotary-ribi.org

Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million members who believe that great things can happen when dedicated minds come together. We are men and women from all walks of life, but with a shared desire to connect with others to address the challenges affecting our community and communities around the world. Our clubs offer opportunities for members and those interested in making a difference to get involved. Our members can be involved with issues facing our community and also worldwide. Along with these opportunities to serve, members meet regularly, resulting in lifelong friendships and community connections. We also have social events and speakers at our meetings. We invite you to visit our clubs and find out more about us and the opportunities we offer and hopefully get involved in some events. Some of the events that take place are Concerts, Quizzes, Christmas Quiz, Charity Golf Day, Market Stalls, Ivel Valley Fun Day, Swimathon, Push4It Wheelchair, Biggleswade Schools support, End Polio Now.

Biggleswade Rotary Club Meets every Tuesday at 12.15pm for 12.45pm lunch at Stratton House Hotel, Biggleswade. For further information contact: Secretary, Hazel House, 07786967132

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Electrician

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Mayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Puzzle Solutions and Winners Last Monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossword Winner Mr E Hathway from Letchworth Winner of the Battle Proms Competition Gary Gunn from Langford

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Life Begins...

By Kate McLelland

What’s wrong with a little rose-tinted nostalgia? “When I was young ...”; “In my time …”; “The good old days …” Be honest. How often do you use expressions like this to talk about the past? Of course, there’s no harm in a little nostalgia; thinking back to the experiences we’ve enjoyed in our lives helps us hold on to our identities in this fast-changing world. But some would argue that constantly reflecting on the past makes it harder for us to appreciate the present or look forward to the future. How we make memories Nostalgia is a wistful longing for the past. Hearing a song, visiting a place linked to your youth or seeing an object that connects you with happier times can result in a flood of positive emotions, but it’s often the memories made in childhood and as young adults that affect us most. A study by the University of Leeds has revealed that our early memories are closely connected with the way we develop a sense of self. As children, and later as young adults, our strongest imprints develop around new experiences – that’s why, years later, we can recall exactly where we were, and who was with us, when we first tried something new. Self-deception or rosy retrospection? The French novelist and critic Marcel Proust wrote: “Remembrance of things past is not necessarily the remembrance of things as they were.” In order to fully enjoy our nostalgic memories, psychiatrists have found that our minds tend to blank out any details that might spoil the picture. This behaviour – known as ‘rosy retrospection’ – allows people to remember events in a positive light, even though they may have been less than happy at the time. In one study of this phenomenon, researchers

found that a group of Disneyland visitors who complained about their experience on the day of their trip recalled it as a great experience when they were quizzed several weeks later. While there’s clearly an element of self-deception at play when it comes to reliving past memories, research suggests that nostalgic thoughts can actually be good for you. A study carried out in America in 2013 concluded that reflecting on happier times provides comfort and improves our mental health, particularly when we are upset or unhappy. Researchers also discovered that far from being backward-looking introverts, people who enjoy thinking about the past believe they are more open to new experiences than many others. Keeping it real Of course, not everyone dons rose-tinted glasses when they reflect on the past. Joan Fraser – contributing to a forum discussion on the SilverSurfers website (www.silversurfers.com) writes: “Thinking back to freezing bedrooms, one bath a week, and times when we couldn’t travel so widely, and women faced such a number of ridiculous restrictions, makes me appreciate the home comforts and freedoms I have”. But even Joan admits that she indulges in a little nostalgia from time to time: “I often also yearn for the people and places I loved so much; but this seems OK and natural, and doesn’t detract from me looking ahead and hoping for good (better) times ahead.” Perhaps the argument about whether it’s better to hark back or look forward is best summed up by 19th century Danish Philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, who wrote: “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.”

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Books

Book Review By Kate Duggan

BICKERDIKES

Lazy Days Wish List Planning to stock up on books for lazy days in the sun? Add these to your wish list…

Now You See Her by Heidi Perks

Charlotte only took her eyes off the little girl for a few minutes but when she doesn’t turn up, Charlotte is ostracised by the community and blamed by the media. And, of course, the little girl’s mother is never going to forgive her. But then the two women come under police investigation and something isn’t quite as it seems. A tension-filled thriller, with plenty of twists and turns.

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Finding Gobi

by Dion Leonard

This is the story of ultramarathon runner Dion Leonard and the small stray dog that joined him on his 155-mile race through the Gobi Desert. Dion becomes determined to offer the dog a home, but there’s an awful lot of red tape to get through, and then the dog disappears. This Sunday Times bestseller has also been rewritten as a picture book and as a young readers’ book, so do make sure you order the right version!

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

Electricians

From just £35.00 per month plus VAT

Call Nigel on 01767 261122 for more information 92

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Classifieds Garden Specialist

Pets

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

HGS Classified advert.indd 1

Painting Services

Plastering Services

14/04/2015 21:23

Plumbing

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

Pet Services

Plumbing and Heating

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

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

Riding School

Property Improvements

Stephens Dinky ad_03.indd 1

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

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

Property Improvements

3/12/12 11:45:18

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

Tiling

Removals

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.

MARK CURRELL CERAMIC TILER

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

All tiling undertaken Kitchens, Bathrooms and Conservatories Free Quotations • All Areas Covered Telephone: 01767 680081 / 07952 499002 Email: markcurrelltiling@masjcurrell.co.uk

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

USEFUL NUMBERS

VILLAGER The

and Town

Life

Alcoholics Anonymous..............................0845 769 7555 Anglian Water............................................08457 145 145 Bedford Hospital........................................ 01234 355122 Lister Hospital............................................ 01438 314333 Addenbrooks Hospital............................... 01223 245151 Benefits for people with Disabilities...........0800 882 200 Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue.................... 01234 351081 Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue................... 01438 729041 Carers Line..................................................0808 808 7777 ChildLine...........................................................0800 1111 Citizens Advice...........................................0844 245 1290 Crimestoppers..............................................0800 555 111

Bringing Local Business to Local People Your local full colour A5 monthly magazine delivered free of charge to 1000s of homes and businesses in your local area. The Villager and Town Life is dedicated to promoting local businesses, charities, community groups and everything else in your local area.

Cruse Bereavement Care............................0333 252 9152 Floodline....................................................0845 988 1188 Frank-Drug Advisory....................................0800 776 600 National Debt Line.....................................0808 808 4000 Gas Emergency............................................0800 111 999 NHS Direct.........................................................0845 4647 National Rail Enquiries..............................03457 48 49 50 Non Emergency Police Line.........................................101 NSPCC.......................................................0808 800 50000 Relate..........................................................0845 48 49 50 RSPCA Cruelty Line....................................0300 1234 999 Samaritans............................................................116 123 Tax Credit Helpline.....................................0345 300 3900 Victim Support..........................................0845 30 30 900

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

Tel: 01767 261122

Email: nigel@villagermag.com Web: www.villagermag.com

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

AT FRIENDS WE OFFER OUR CLIENTS 2 late evenings until 9pm • Highest standard of hairdressing 2 certified hair colourists • Great loyalty reward scheme Complimentary refreshments and magazines • All stylists London trained

Junes Special Offers for Hair Book in for our express blonde service for only

£25.00

Perfect for the summer months

Junes Special Offers for Beauty Be ready for the summer months with our special waxing offers Book multiple waxing treatments and receive the cheapest area FREE

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