Potton June 2022

VILLAGER The

Issue 190 - June 2022

and Town

Life

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

Inside this issue

Choosing Garden Furniture Five Reasons to Visit Sardinia Win £25 in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People Every Month in Biggleswade, Sandy, Potton, Gamlingay and all surrounding villages

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Inside this issue...

Viva La Vida Celebrates 20 Years

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Five reasons to visit Sardinia................................................................... 4 How to choose a care home................................................................... 8 Is there such a ting as a mid life crisis?...............................................10 Trouble at Potton’s Sandy Road Recreation Ground in 1871....... 12 Summer Loving...........................................................................................16 Buying Swimwear.......................................................................................18 Brewing Today: Round Corner Brewing Company......................... 21 BBQ Steak with Chimichurri Dressing................................................ 22 Is it time to try tennis?............................................................................30 How to look after your feet..................................................................33 Active Ingredients.....................................................................................36 The History of Instant Coffee............................................................... 39 Liquorice.......................................................................................................40 Get the best deal......................................................................................44 Viva La Vida Celebrates 20 Years.........................................................48

What do we mean by exotic plants?.................................................. 51 Under Pressure........................................................................................... 55 Trellis.............................................................................................................. 57 Cutting Edge Technology.......................................................................58 R.A.T.S. Rehoming Appeal........................................................................61 One Fun Day is finally back!................................................................... 62 Ask Alan at Potton Vets..........................................................................64 Is Suzuki’s new Vitara worth considering?....................................... 67 Choosing Garden Furniture.................................................................... 71 What’s On in June...................................................................................... 74 Baking: Strawberry Mousse................................................................... 78 Puzzle Page..................................................................................................80 Villager Prize Crossword.........................................................................86 Summer Reads............................................................................................90 Useful Numbers.........................................................................................95

How to Choose a Care Home

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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 - Solange Hando, Tracey Anderson, Peter Ibbett, Sarah Davey, Jennie Billings, Trevor Langley, Kate Duggan, Caroline Knight, Matthew Carter, Rachael Leverton, RSPCA, Potton Vets, Ted Welford and Katherine Sorrell,

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

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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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Travel

Five reasons to visit Sardinia

By Solange Hando

Sun-bleached beaches, glistening shores and mouthwatering food: Sardinia is a holiday destination from heaven. While the island is known for its winning sun-sea-sand combination, this Italian gem is full of surprises too. Lush mountains, hidden grottoes, Roman ruins and a cultural capital all offer some exciting alternatives to lazy days by the beach – and all just a three-hour flight away!

If we’ve got you in the holiday mood, here are just five reasons why Sardinia should be on your radar when booking your next escape.

1. It’s a beach lover’s paradise Imagine swathes of powder-white sand kissed by crystal clear shores, heated by the Italian summer sun. Sounds like paradise, right? Whether you’re a family looking for shallow waters and gently sloping sands, or a couple seeking a secluded spot off the beaten track, Sardinia has a beach – or spiaggia – for everyone.

With over 1,800km of pristine coastline, you’ll be spoilt for choice on where to stay. Cala Brandinchi, nicknamed ‘Little Tahiti’, is probably the island’s most famous beach. This thin arc of soft sand lapped by crystalline turquoise waters certainly lives up to its

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name. Its shallow waters are perfect for swimming, while the surrounding pine trees offer plenty of shade.

Families will love the soft sands and shallow waters of Chia’s Spiaggia Sa Colonia and Spiaggia Su Portu in the south of the island. Don’t forget to look out for the wild flamingos in the lagoon! Or if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, look no further than Spiaggia di Piscinas along the Costa Verde (Green Coast). This ribbon of golden sand is home to a vast expanse of dunes, rising up to 60m.

2. The food is divine Sardinia’s food is enough reason to visit alone. A wealth of local culinary traditions mixed with the island’s Mediterranean and Italian influences combine to create a delicious cuisine heavy in grilled and spitroasted meats, not to mention a mouth-watering array of breads and cheeses.

You’ll find all the classic Italian favourites such as pizza and pasta on most menus, but the local specialties are well worth a try. Su Porcheddu, or roast suckling pig, is a must-try for meat-eaters while vegetarians will love Culurgiones – pasta filled with potato, pecorino cheese, garlic and mint leaves, layered with a sweet tomato sauce.

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3. It’s more than just a beach break From colourful villages and rustic towns soaked in history to ancient stone buildings dating back thousands of years, Sardinia has plenty of sights and experiences to coax you away from the sand.

With a culture rich in history and tradition, there’s something new and exciting to discover around almost every corner. Walk the city walls of Alghero, explore Roman ruins in Nora or visit in the shoulder season and take a hiking trip into the island’s lush green mountains.

If you’re feeling adventurous, but want to stay close to your resort, you could even throw yourself into some water sports. Sailing, windsurfing and scuba diving opportunities await!

4. It’s the land of luxury Wake up to a view of the sparkling sea, treat yourself to a spa treatment, while away your afternoon in designer boutiques before enjoying a dinner fit for a king: there’s a reason why Sardinia is so popular with the rich and famous.

The Costa Smeralda region in the north is synonymous with glitz and glamour. This glistening stretch of coastline, starting in Porto Cervo and travelling around the headland to Portisco, oozes style and sophistication. Pick your favourite superyacht, treat yourself to lunch in a gourmet restaurant and people-watch from a charming pavement cafe. Oh, and keep an eye out for famous

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faces! Sardinia’s beauty attracts billionaires and celebrities from all over the globe.

5. The holiday season is long Blessed with a warm Mediterranean climate from April to October, Sardinia is renowned for its ‘sixmonth summers’. The island is at its hottest in July and August, with temperatures reaching a scorching 30°C. This is the perfect time to visit if you fancy lazing around on the beach, topping up the tan and soaking up the holiday atmosphere.

However, Sardinia also enjoys a balmy climate in April, May, September and October, giving you the chance to stretch out your summer for longer.

The shoulder season is a great time to visit if you’re looking for a quieter escape and slightly cooler temperatures. It’s also a prime time to buckle up your walking boots and do some exploring.

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Special Report

How to choose a care home Choosing a care home for yourself or someone you love is never easy. Here are a few things you’ll want to consider.

Nursing homes versus care homes Nursing homes have qualified medical staff on site; care homes may not, so do consider what type of service you’re looking for. It’s worth speaking to your GP about which type of home might be best and whether they can recommend anywhere. Your local council can also assess your care needs. Certain health conditions, such as dementia and Parkinson’s, will require specialist care, so you’ll need to check whether the homes you’re looking at have staff with suitable skills and experience.

Budget You’ll want to check whether you’re entitled to any financial support towards the fees, so do contact your local council for a means test. Extra support towards nursing care may also be available from the NHS. Once you know what help you’re entitled to, you can work out which local care homes are within your budget. Remember to check exactly what the fees cover and how much notice you’ll be given when the fees increase.

What makes you happy?

Have a think about the type of care home you or your loved one would most enjoy living in. Do you want a garden? What kind of activities would you like to take part in? Do you want a small, peaceful home, or a larger, sociable one near to shops and cafés? Do you need one on a bus route to make it easier to reach for visitors? Do you need a home that will accept visits from pets?

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Read reviews Check the regulatory authority’s report for each care home that you’re considering and read reviews at www.carehome.co.uk and www.iwantgreatcare.org.

It’s also worth asking for opinions on social media, for example on your local Facebook groups.

Visit each care home on your shortlist Brochures and websites are useful for creating your shortlist, but you’ll want to visit a few homes before you make your final decision. When you visit, speak to a few members of staff and residents, as well as the manager. Prepare a list of questions before you go. Does the home feel dark and dated or light, fresh and inviting? How welcoming do the social spaces feel? Can you sample the food or at least see the menu? What’s the policy for visitors? If you or your relative has a physical impairment, how will the home manage that? What size rooms are available?

Extra information You can search for local care homes at www.carehome.co.uk, where you’ll also find reviews and advice on financial support, care needs assessments and more.

Age UK (www.ageuk.org.uk, 0800 055 6112) has lots of advice about choosing and paying for a care home.

You may also want to seek advice from specialist health charities, such as the Alzheimer’s Society (www.alzheimers.org.uk, 0333 150 3456) and Parkinson’s UK (www.parkinsons.org.uk, 0808 800 0303).

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Special Report

By Tracey Anderson

Is there such a thing as a mid life crisis?

We’ve all heard the term ‘mid-life crisis.’ But what is it exactly?

The psychoanalyst Elliott Jaques first suggested the concept in in 1957. He hadn’t completed any research though, basing his assertion solely on a few autobiographies of famous men. He declared that that men in their mid-30s go through a depressive period when they contemplate their mortality for the first time. Jaques didn’t include women in this sweeping statement, citing the menopause, claiming it “obscured” women’s midlife transitions!

Gail Sheehy then popularized the idea in the 70s.

She based her assertions on rudimentary research from Yale, involving just 40 male subjects. In spite of this small sample, she confidently stated that the midlife crisis starts in the 40th year and ends at 45 ½, which seems oddly specific.

More recent research suggests that we all go through three to five major transitions in our lives, some voluntary and some involuntary. They might be personal, including serious illness, major career change, birth, or divorce, or they might be due to external factors such as a housefire, bankruptcy, death of a close family member or a pandemic. It can take five years or more to completely work through just one of these transitions so we could each spend 30-50% of our lives in transition. It makes a lot of sense therefore to learn some strategies for dealing with change.

First, accept that things change. Try not to fight or resist, and don’t go into denial. Acknowledge the change and lean into. Embrace the fact that although not all change is bad, even positive change brings stress. A new baby is joyful, but stressful, even if you planned for it. The same goes for starting a new business.

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During transition periods it helps to stick to routines.

Go for a walk or a run every day; make time to watch your favourite TV show, play five aside or practice your piano…whatever gives your life structure. These routines act as anchors to remind us that some things are still the same, and they give our brains a chance to recharge.

Eat healthily. Stress can make us crave comfort food, or alcohol. Concentrate on buying and eating healthy foods but allow a few treats too. Exercise even if you don’t want to. Walking at a brisk pace clear’s your mind and bathes your brain in feel-good hormones.

Have plenty of early nights. Set a regular bedtime and stick to it. Regular sleep really does refresh you and help you think more clearly.

Find a support group. This can be a formal group, such a bereavement group, or the informal support of a few good friends or family members. No-one can do everything alone. Asking for help is a mature, sensible approach to coping with transition..

Be proactive about changes. What can you do to make the transition happen more smoothly? Write the steps down you need to take and work through them one by one. When you look back you’ll be surprised how far you’ve come.

Most transitions even positive ones, involve a grieving period for the old life, where we come to terms with what we’ve lost or given up; a period of readjustment, which might seem chaotic, when we change habits, shed relationships, learn new skills, maybe even move house or continent; followed by a new beginning, where we can finally see a clear path ahead of us.

We can’t ignore transitions and we can’t will them away. When we learn to deal with change we can accept it, embrace it, and use it to move forward in our life.

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History

Trouble at Potton’s Sandy Road

Recreation Ground in 1871

By Peter Ibbett

The early 1960’s map of Potton shows the Sandy Road ‘Rec’ used by several generations of Potton folk for football, cricket and general enjoyment. A recent addition to Potton History Society archives throws light upon its origins:‘The Potton poor and others act very childishly with regard to what is persistently called the “recreation ground.” The poor, through their trustees, let the piece of ground on the Sandy Road, which was bought with money received from the railway company (mid 1850’s) in compensation of sundry land taken by the said company from the Poor’s Common. The said trustees were properly appointed, the land was conveyed to them, and in the course of time let it to Mr. Manning of the Red Lion inn, and he re-lets it to the cricketers. If this be so, and we have no ground for disputing it, why do the poor want to continue their use of it, as if it

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were in their own occupation. They have sold their plum-cake, and think that they still have a right to feast on it, like spoilt ignorant children.

“We have as much right here as the cricketers,” they say. Indeed, when they pay you for it. Pooh, pooh, Potton poor. Let such ignorance lie dormant. You know that the ground is no more yours than the crops on that part of the common let off to some of your own numbers. Why do you not go to Over (Potton Charity owned land in the parish of Over), and claim the crops there? If you are men, put away such childish thoughts, and when you want to enjoy their cricket ground, do so in deference to those who have a better right than you have.’

This was discovered in the locally printed Potton Journal on Saturday 22nd July 1871 and was an editorial by C. J. Hercock, of Potton Market Square.

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Time of Year

Summer Loving

In praise of the romantic comedy

For me, watching a rom-com is a lot like eating a whole tub of Ben and Jerry’s. You know you shouldn’t; you’ll probably feel slightly queasy afterwards, but it feels so good in the moment. They are perfect summer watching.

You do have to accept the limitations; it’s no good looking for clever subtext or the meaning of life here, and you have to be ok with cliché…actually you have to fully embrace it because cliché is the lifeblood of the rom-com.

For example, most characters in rom-coms work in advertising or journalism in a big city. Occasionally a doctor or a vet is allowed to be a main character, but the chances are at least one of the leads is trying to make a deadline or win a contract. There’s the ‘will they, won’t they?’ part of the storyline, and even though we know they inevitably will, it’s important when they meet for the first time, that there’s friction, or preferably intense dislike between the leads. Usually, this revolves around a car accident, or a situation where one of them acts uncharacteristically like a jerk. There is an unwritten rule that if one of the characters is a doctor or a vet they will inevitably be a ‘country’ doctor, or a ‘country’ vet and the big city journalist or advertising executive will learn salutary life lessons from their sweet, super sensible country ways...and there’s generally a community fete or barn dance where the chemistry begins.

There are always ditsy / drunk / geeky / obnoxious / sensible-but-plain / seriously hot-but slightly dim / totally dysfunctional-but-loveable <delete as applicable according to the plot> best friends or

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family members. These characters are there for their comedic value and they are always endearing, even the obnoxious ones.

Then there is a PROBLEM (capital letters intentional) for the couple to overcome. One of them isn’t who they say they are, or there’s a misunderstanding where one thinks the other is married / involved in fraud / a murderer. Basically, the relationship is ALWAYS entered into under false pretences by one or both parties in a rom-com. These false pretences may be real or entirely imagined but they will always cause a PROBLEM, usually exacerbated by a wellmeaning and aforementioned best friend or family member.

Finally, there is a chase as one of the leads, driven to rash action by the PROBLEM, rushes off to take a new job in another country. Usually, the chase scene ends with a kiss in the rain...or a fountain... or a river. For some reason water features large in rom-com resolution scenes. Oh...and the guy nearly always apologises even if the woman was in the wrong. Because rom-com rules dictate this...possibly because women are the target audience.

I know ALL this, and I still love rom-coms. Here are some great examples to discover or revisit this summer.

The Wedding Planner Crazy Rich Asians 27 Dresses There’s Something About Mary My Big Fat Greek Wedding The Wedding Singer My Best Friend’s Wedding

By Sarah Davey

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House of Colour

Buying swimwear?

As we might be able to actually travel to some hotter climes and enjoy some good weather thoughts turn to swimwear. Finding the right shapes and styles in swimwear is not always easy and I can’t say I enjoy finding it for myself but there are a few good principles to bear in mind. We all want to feel confident.

Great colour – choose a wow colour on you. There’s nothing more confidence inspiring knowing you’ve got the right colour on so make it one of your best.

Try it on at home – trying swimwear on in a shop can be thoroughly dispiriting, you’re not fully prepped when you look at yourself in the mirror, nor are you in the holiday you’re aiming for! Try at least two sizes in the same style as it can make a difference to coverage and comfort. Also move around a lot in it when you’re trying it on. Does it move with you or expose areas you’d rather not have on view? Clearly you need to be prepared to send/take them back.

Scale of pattern – When you’re looking at pattern be aware of the size and scale of it on you. Does it look too overwhelming or too small? Your style session notes if you’ve had a style consultation will help.

Shape – look at the shape of the swimsuit, bikini etc.

Is it more of a straight cut or does it have curves?

You need one that reflects your shape too.

Bikini, halter crop, tankini, etc. – there’s a lot to choose from. First consider are you lounging or actually swimming. If you’re in the sun a lot consider a rash vest for sun protection. If you’re wearing a cropped item, is it cropped in the right place? Do you look foreshortened in it? High waisted bikini bottoms are a big trend currently but can be too high for some body shapes.

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Trends – trends to look out for: Cut out – depending on your clothing personality elements where there is a piece cut out are definitely having moment. Angular body shapes and dramatic clothing personalities will feel most at home here. Be aware of where the cutout will sit on you and whether that will flatter your proportions, and cope with movement! A high leg cut is key to this trend and can be very flattering!

Ruffles – wonderful in larger scale on curvaceous figure and in smaller scale for those who need delicate prettiness.

Print – tropical prints and bold abstract designs are very much in evidence in swimwear, lovely on Dramatics and Naturals. Consider where the designs sit on your body when the swimwear piece is on – will that be flattering given your proportions. You won’t want a large line or end point highlighting your widest point.

Texture – can be a forgiving element and there are quite a few options from M&S to Free People that have a texture to the fabric. Ruching and fabric twists are a mainstay here. It’s a very on trend element currently too.

Micro-glitter – from sheen to a more eye catching element there is definitely a sprinkling of glitter and gleam to swimwear.

If it feels good and you feel good in it wear it and wear it with pride!

Article by Jennie Billings – House of Colour House of Colour has a network of stylists to help you update your look – find your nearest at houseofcolour.co.uk/find-a-stylist

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Food & Drink

Brewing Today: Round Corner Brewing Company

Multi award-winning Round Corner Brewing Company is located in Melton Mowbray and produces beers of unmistakable character. Indeed, their logo states, ’Uncommonly Good Beer’. The beers are inspired by, and pay respect to, the hugely popular and very much thriving agricultural town and surrounding area. Certainly, the standards of Round Corner Brewing are very high – the numerous awards they keep gaining are testament to that! Melton Mowbray, plus the surrounding area, is recognised and renowned for locally-made Stilton cheese and pork pies. The market in Melton Mowbray has a long history. Food/drink events take place each year and attract vast amounts of visitors.

The Round Corner Brewing Company has more than twenty years of knowledge and experience, inputted by head brewer and co-founder Colin Paige. Combie Cryan is also co-founder and with their committed, dedicated team, they produce beers to an exceptional standard, which have something for all tastes and palates, having numerous lovers of their beers becoming ‘devotees’ to the brand.

FRISBY (4.2% vol). This very popular lager has its maturation period extended, plus, with Fuggles hops, then produces a most pleasant aroma and drinking taste. DROVERS (4,3% vol) is described as a ‘Session IPA’. This hazy, Vermont beer is dry-hopped and uses Lemondrop, Bavaria Mandarina, Citra, Mosaic and Motueka hops very well. STEEPLECHASE (4.4% vol) is a classic pale ale, utilising English barley malts to great advantage. New Zealand and US hops combine, for this very popular beer. GUNMETAL (4.8% vol) I would describe as a ‘Black Lager’. The dark brown appearance entices to the aroma and then on to the mouth’s pleasures. Biscuity, malty, smooth. REVEREND HOOKER (5.5% vol). This Irish stout is a further, hugely popular production. The mouthfeel and palate’s smooth experience definitely do not disappoint. HOPPING SPREE (6.6% vol). This West Coast IPA is a golden delight. The ABV is raised, so that the full potential of this beer comes to recognition – Splendid!

For all details of the full range of beers, plus latest news, tours and tastings, please make contact or visit the website.

Round Corner Brewing Ltd, Melton Mowbray Market, Scalford Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE13 1JY. Tel: +44 (0) 7585 792 494 E-mail: info@roundcornerbrewing.com www.roundcornerbrewing.com

As always, Enjoy!

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Seasonal Recipe

Barbecue steak with chimichurri dressing Chimichurri is a delicious spicy herb sauce ideal for serving with meats. For maximum flavour, marinate the steak in a little of the sauce overnight. When barbecuing, remember that cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of your steak and how you like it cooked. Instead of using the barbecue you can also griddle the steak. This recipe serves four as a light dish or two as a larger main.

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 8 minutes Marinate: 1-2 hours or overnight Serves 4

1. Place the sauce ingredients in a blender and process to form a chunky sauce. Place the steaks in a shallow container. Spoon a third of the sauce over the beef. Cover and place in the fridge for 2 hours, or overnight if possible.

Ingredients 2 x 150g lean beef fillet steaks 200g bag of mixed salad leaves 4 radishes, sliced thinly ½ a cucumber, cut in half lengthways and sliced

2. Remove the steaks from the fridge and allow to reach room temperature.

Chimichurri sauce 1 garlic clove, crushed Pinch of sea salt Pinch of black pepper ½ a red chilli, deseeded and chopped Large handful of flat-leaf parsley leaves Handful of coriander leaves Pinch of ground cumin 30ml apple cider vinegar 75ml olive oil

3. If barbecuing, make sure the barbecue is mediumhot. Alternatively, heat a griddle pan until hot.

Cook the steaks, using long-handled tongs to turn it, until cooked to your liking (2-4 minutes on each side). Turn the steaks once only during cooking – any more and the juices escape, which can make the meat tough.

4. Remove from the pan and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Slice thinly.

5. Place the salad on a platter and top with the radishes and cucumber. Place the steak slices on top. Drizzle over the sauce to serve.

Nutrition per serving: 285kcal, fat 24g (of which saturates 4.7g), carbohydrates 0.9g (of which sugars 0.7g), protein 17g

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Sport

Is it time to try tennis?

Wimbledon has many of us glued to the TV screen.

If you find yourself itching to be out there on the court, why not make 2022 the year you take up tennis? As well as helping you to keep fit and healthy, tennis is a good way to meet new people and it can really help to lift your mood.

The benefits of tennis Tennis is a great all-round exercise. For a start, it’s cardiovascular as it increases your heart rate and breathing, which helps to keep your heart strong.

You’ll burn around 400 to 600 calories an hour and work several different muscle groups. Tennis is also a weight-bearing exercise, so helps to strengthen your bones and reduce your risk of osteoporosis.

Plus, it’s good for improving flexibility, balance and coordination.

Who can play Most people can learn tennis as it can be adapted for different needs. Around 500 tennis venues across the UK deliver sessions for people with a disability or long-term health issue. Wheelchair Tennis is becoming increasingly popular and many clubs have sports wheelchairs available to hire. Visually Impaired Tennis is also growing in popularity. It uses a different court and a special ball that makes a louder noise on impact.

For more details, email disabilitytennis@lta.org.uk.

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What you’ll need Some tennis clubs will let you hire a racket. If you need to buy your own, look for one that’s suitable for beginners and has a larger head to make it easier to hit the ball. Rackets have different size handles, so you’ll probably want to try a few out in person rather than buying online. When you grip the handle, there should be around a 1cm gap between your thumb and first finger.

Tennis balls can be picked up pretty cheaply. If you’re a complete beginner, look for ones with red markings. These are slower and lighter than standard tennis balls. The next level up is orange and then green, which is around 25% slower than standard.

What to wear Dress in comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely. Layers are a good idea, especially if you’re playing outdoors. And, of course, you’ll need a decent pair of trainers.

How to learn tennis Whether you have an old racket lurking in a cupboard or you’re a complete beginner, you’re likely to find a suitable class at your local leisure centre or tennis club. If you’d rather have one-to-one coaching, search for an accredited coach at www.lta.org.uk.

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Health

How to look after your feet

Our feet are our first point of contact with the world, and yet too often we cram them into illfitting shoes and leave them until last when it comes to self-care. From athlete’s foot to ingrown toenails, there are a variety of issues that can crop up as a result of poor foot care. So, what can you do to – literally – put your best foot forward, and how can you resolve any issues should they arise?

Prevention is better than cure, so the best place to start is with your choice of shoe. A good pair of shoes should support and protect your feet, and allow natural movement when walking. Look for breathable fabrics, roomy toe-boxes, cushioned soles and low heels. Although wearing high heels once in a while won’t do much harm, long-term use has been linked to ingrown toenails and even arthritis.

Once you’re wearing the right shoes, keeping your feet in good condition should be fairly straightforward. Applying a moisturiser or foot cream daily will help prevent cracking, and using a pumice stone or foot file will tackle any hard skin that often appears around the heels. It’s also important to check your feet regularly for cuts, sores, redness or swelling – especially if you’re diabetic. This is because raised blood sugar levels can often lead to a reduction in blood supply to your feet, which means that cuts and sores may take a while to heal.

When it comes to foot care, toenail trimming is key.

The trick here is little and often. Experts recommend

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trimming your nails every six to eight weeks, cutting them straight across using clean, sharp clippers. The best time is when you’re just out of the bath, but be careful not to cut them too short. Ingrown toenails are often the result of over-trimming, and besides being extremely painful, in extreme cases, may need an operation to resolve.

Athlete’s foot is another common foot problem, caused by walking barefoot in communal spaces such as gyms, showers or swimming pools. This fungal infection usually starts between the toes, causes significant discomfort, itching and pain, and can even spread beyond the feet if not treated.

Over-the-counter fungal creams are the best solution, but it’s also important to keep your feet clean and dry in-between treatments.

Some foot ailments can be slightly more bothersome, however. Ledderhose disease is a rare condition that causes connective tissue to build up and create hard lumps on the soles of the feet. The growths aren’t cancerous but they can cause pain, especially when walking. Home remedies include wearing soft shoe inserts, stretching, massages and anti-inflammatory drugs, but doctors might also recommend surgery in more serious cases.

Although chiropody becomes more important as we age, taking good care of our feet also gets harder as we lose flexibility. If you’re experiencing any aches, pains or symptoms in your feet, visit your local chiropodist who will be able to help diagnose any issues and advise next steps.

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Hello Villager Readers...

Good news! Having maintained thorough and careful safety measures at the Herts MS Therapy Centre, we are being asked to expand our programme of Oxygen Therapy sessions.

It’s fantastic to see familiar faces again, and to welcome new people keen to see how Oxygen Therapy may help them. Many people with health challenges find it gives them pain relief, energy boosts and faster healing.

To enable us to run the Oxygen Therapy additional sessions needed, our charity needs some extra pairs of hands! Can you help us please?

Full training and support are given, plus safety measures are observed at all times.

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Peter Noble is so impressed with how Oxygen Therapy changed his life that he intends to volunteer at The 01462 684 214 Herts MS Therapy Centre.

“Oxygen Therapy has done me the power of good, helping me recover from Long Covid. The people are welcoming and friendly,” says Peter. “I’d like to volunteer there in the future to give something back.”

Oxygen sessions at The Herts MS Therapy Centre are used as a complementary therapy that helps some people. It is safe to try and is natural. For over 30 years the charity has helped thousands of people with MS, Parkinson’s disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, ME, fibromyalgia, sleep apnoea, leg ulcers, cancer and – more recently – Long Covid.

Could you spare a couple of hours each week?

Please email oxygen@hmstc.net if you’d like to know more.

Thank you. We are grateful for your support.

Best wishes, Team HMSTC

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Beauty

Active Ingredients It sometimes feels like you need a science degree to decode skincare ingredients lists. So we thought it was time to explain some of the most common active ingredients and why you might want them.

Hyaluronic acid Hyaluronic acid helps skin to lock in moisture.

By doing so, it makes skin plumper and softer, and smooths out wrinkles. If your skin feels dry, dehydrated or tight, you’d likely benefit from adding hyaluronic acid to your daily skincare routine. Don’t be put off by the name – hyaluronic acid won’t burn or irritate your skin.

Niacinamide Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B3. It’s a real multitasker – keeping skin hydrated, improving texture and reducing redness, irritation and dark spots. It also helps to protect your skin and boost cell renewal.

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) There are several types of AHAs, the most common being glycolic acid and lactic acid. They’re mainly used to exfoliate skin – removing dead cells to reveal brighter, smoother skin. Be warned though, AHAs can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so always wear sunscreen, even on cold and cloudy days. If your skin is particularly sensitive, you might want to stick to lactic acid, which is less likely to cause irritation.

CBD (cannabidiol) CBD is extracted from hemp. It calms and balances the skin, reducing inflammation, redness and acne.

It’s also an antioxidant, so helps to protect your skin from environmental damage.

Retinol A form of vitamin A, retinol boosts cell renewal to make skin look brighter and fresher. It can

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By Kate Duggan

reduce fine lines, scarring and sun damage. On the downside, it can cause dryness and irritation, so you’ll want to start off with a low concentration and work your way up. You’ll also need to combine it with a decent moisturiser and SPF. Vitamin C While vitamin C can’t replace sunscreen, it does helps to protect your skin from UV rays, pollution and other environmental factors. It also helps skin to heal, reduces dark patches and makes skin more radiant.

Peptides Peptides are a type of amino acid. They boost collagen and elastin so can make your skin look firmer and plumper.

Try these Looking for a great all-rounder? Try Olay’s new Vitamin C + AHA24 range. It combines Vitamin C, niacinamide and lactic acid to brighten and soften skin, increase hydration and reduce uneven pigmentation. The serum and moisturiser cost £34.99 each from www.boots.com and have been gathering rave reviews since they were launched earlier this year.

Bad Habit’s Repair Mode AHA/BHA Active Night Serum (£20, uk.morphe.com) gently exfoliates your skin while you sleep. Along with several different types of AHA and BHA (beta hydroxy acid), it contains magnesium and various plant extracts to soothe, brighten and hydrate your skin.

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• • • • • •

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Private pool - Tadlow ASA qualified teachers Beginners & stroke technique classes 1-3 pupils per class 10 week courses (term time only) Mother and Toddler classes

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Email: tadlowswimming@btinternet.com

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Food & Drink

The History of Instant Coffee

I thought instant coffee was a recent innovation, but it has actually been around since the turn of the last century.

A chemist named George Constant Washington, developed and patented a coffee compound branded as Red E Coffee in the US. It was quite different to the instant coffee we know today, and a world away from fresh coffee. In the 1930s, the Brazilian coffee industry, wanted to develop a way to preserve excess coffee crops and experimented with liquid coffee extract. It was Nestlé, who pioneered powdered coffee, producing its iconic product in 1938. Instant coffee found popularity during the Second World War because of its a convenience and long shelf life, and the fact that it could be made anywhere without the need for a coffee machine. In fact, one year, the U.S. military bought more than one million cases of Nescafé, which represented a whole year’s output for the company!

In 1963 Maxwell House developed a freeze-drying process which came to dominate the market and gave a taste more comparable with fresh coffee. The green coffee bean is first roasted to bring out flavour and aroma. The roasted beans are then finely ground and dissolved in water. This coffee solution is then dried by one of two methods: freeze drying, which is the removal of water by sublimation; or spray drying.

These modern manufacturing methods have greatly improved the taste and solubility instant coffee, allowing better aroma and complexity of taste but it can never match the taste of the freshly ground variety. However, for convenience in a busy life, it’s an instant win!

By Tracey Anderson

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Special Report

Liquorice

What’s the story behind this polarising confectionary?

My Gran loved liquorice, but she was not a liquorice connoisseur. Bertie Basset’s Allsorts were her particular poison of choice and I use the word ‘poison’ quite deliberately as I hate the stuff. Berties’ mainly comprise various forms of sugar, including molasses and glucose syrup, wheat flour, starch, gelatine, and vegetable oil. Liquorice extract comes way down on the ingredients list, but it is at least present. In the U.S. black ‘licorice’ candy (they even spell it differently) generally contains no real liquorice at all; the flavour comes from anise seed.

Die-hard liquorice-lovers by contrast insist on brands with a minimal ingredients list: molasses, flour, liquorice extract and aniseed oil, possibly a pinch of salt and natural colour.

Liquorice root extract contains glycyrrhizin, a natural sweetener and steroid-like substance that can cause high blood pressure or heart arrhythmias when eaten regularly in large amounts. Gran was definitely on blood pressure medication back in the seventies so maybe there was a link, though she would have had to munch through something like 50g (2oz) per day for it to have had any effect and the quantity of

sugar in a box of Berties’ means she would probably have died of diabetes long before succumbing to death-by-liquorice!

I’d read about a genetic quirk which is the reason that some people can’t stand the taste of coriander and I wondered if something similar might be responsible for the fact I dislike liquorice so intensely. I couldn’t find any research on the subject...but that doesn’t mean there isn’t an SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) lurking on a gene somewhere in my DNA which means liquorice tastes like bitter tyre rubber to me. Or maybe the taste is my body’s way of protecting me from the potentially harmful effects of glycyrrhizin. Who knows?

The human affection for liquorice (although not this human) seems to date back to 400 BC, when Greek physician Hippocrates proclaimed it could treat ulcers and quench thirst. Alexander the Great even doled out liquorice rations to his troops to keep them hydrated on long marches, and stockpiles of liquorice were found in Tutankhamun’s tomb, sitting alongside other treasures.

Glycyrrhizin means ‘sweet root’ in Greek, and it is

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indeed very sweet, being 40 times sweeter than sugar. It belongs to a flowering shrub which grows in the subtropical climate and rich soil found in Southern Europe, the Middle East, and South Asia.

Glycyrrhizin is said to suppress coughs and clear phlegm, reduce inflammation and decrease viral loads. It’s also purported to fight cancer, diabetes, and dental disease, though there’s very little scientific research to support the latter claims.

I’ve always thought liquorice sweets taste like bad medicine and in fact there is a story (or possibly a myth because I couldn’t find a name) that we have a pharmacist to thank for them. In 1760 in Pontefract this mystery pharmacist supposedly added sugar to a cough medicine containing liquorice root to make it more palatable, and a whole new line of confectionary was born. By the 1800s manufacturers were in full scale production across Europe. The Netherlands actually consumes the most liquorice per capita, and in Sweden they have Lakritsfestivalen (“liquorice festival”) complete with tastings, entertainment, and even sculptures made out of the stuff. But then they also eat pickled herrings, so I feel the bar for Swedish cuisine is not set terribly high.

In spite of my distaste for all things liquorice, consumption of real liquorice (in contrast to the highly processed ‘candy’ version) is growing rapidly

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across Europe as we cut back on sugary snacks but still crave something sweet. I’m not sure I could ever learn to love liquorice though; I’d rather eat pickled herrings!

By Sarah Davey

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Finance

Get the best deal Savvy spenders know to use comparison sites for many personal finance and related services, but making the most of such sites isn’t always easy. Here are some top tips for getting the best deal while saving time.

INSURANCE Insurance is arguably the king of the comparison site, thanks to years of memorable ad campaigns.

Getting comparisons makes sense for most forms of insurance, whether you’re a first-time customer or your policy is coming up for renewal. It doesn’t just save time going to individual sites, but reduces the need to keep typing in the same details about the cover you require.

Counter-intuitively, it can make sense to try multiple comparison sites rather than just one. Both the policies and prices on offer can differ slightly across different comparison tools, so a little extra time could get you a better deal. The good news is that once you’ve run a search on a site, it will usually store your details and send you a reminder next year, letting you run a new search without having to type everything in again.

It’s also worth checking insurers that make a point of not being available through comparison sites, most notably Direct Line, as they may have better deals.

If you’ve got even more time to spare, check out cashback sites. You’ll need to check terms and conditions carefully, and be certain what you are

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signing up for, but they can work out to be a better option when you crunch the numbers. Occasionally you may get a cashback bonus that makes it a better option than going for a cheaper base price through a standard comparison site.

On the other hand, don’t get too caught up in comparison sites that offer deals such as cheap cinema tickets or meals out. These often have tight restrictions and you may overestimate how much use you’d actually make of these ‘rewards’. Think of them more as a tiebreaker if two sites have similar prices for a policy.

UTILITIES Sadly, gas and electricity supply is no longer an area where price comparison tools have much purpose.

At the time of writing, the cost of wholesale gas (which also affects electricity production costs) is so high that suppliers have little incentive to offer deals cheaper than the government-imposed price cap.

Without a crystal ball it’s impossible to predict future price movements, but it’s hard to see any supplier offering a sustainable fixed-price deal that’s below the price cap any time soon. The only real exception is power supplies to businesses where, unlike with consumers, there’s no price cap. Using a specialist business energy-comparison tool still makes sense.

BROADBAND, TV, MOBILES One area where people may overlook comparison tools is broadband, television and mobile phone

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

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services (particularly for those who own a handset outright). If you get your internet through a phone line rather than a cable network such as Virgin, you should be able to switch supplier with virtually no disruption, so even a small saving can be worthwhile.

Specialist comparison tools work particularly well with premium TV services, which can be confusing to navigate. Both Sky and BT offer channels in some form through their own TV provision, through Virgin cable, and through streaming-only deals, so comparing all the options can be much simpler via comparison sites.

MORTGAGES Mortgages may seem like an obvious area for comparison sites, but they usually aren’t a perfect option. That’s because whether a particular provider will offer a loan, and on what terms, will vary significantly between individual customers.

It’s certainly worth checking out a couple of price comparisons, but think of them more as a rough guide to whether buying a property in your desired price range is affordable rather than a way to choose a deal.

In many cases, using a mortgage broker makes sense, particularly if you have any special circumstances such as a poor credit history or being self-employed.

A good mortgage broker won’t just look at prices but

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will also give you a much better idea of which lender will be likely to accept or reject you. This reduces the risk of a vicious circle where a failed mortgage application means you have multiple credit checks on your credit record in a short period, each making you less attractive to lenders.

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Business Review

Viva La Vida!

Hairdressing salon celebrates 20 years in Biggleswade Last month marked an important birthday for La Vida Hairdressing in Station Road, Biggleswade when, on 3rd May, they celebrated an impressive 20 years since their opening.

Owner Rachel Relihan was only twenty-three when she started the small, friendly salon, which is conveniently situated just off the town centre.

“When I qualified, I never planned to open my own business,” she says. “I went into hairdressing straight from school, working in Bedford then Potton. When I moved to a salon in Ampthill after six years, my clients wanted to come with me.”

With a loyal following of clients travelling to her, and Rachel commuting herself, it seemed the perfect idea to take the plunge and open her own hairdressers more locally. She found the perfect premises and took on her first stylist after a month.

Business built up from there.

Today, La Vida has four stylists, two of whom have completed their apprenticeships with the salon: Lauren, who has worked there for five years; Shannon and Zoe, both of whom have worked at La Vida for 11 years; and Rachel herself.

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The client base is varied, ranging from families, a youthful generation who have ‘grown up’ attending the salon, to older customers, all of which Rachel is really pleased about. Most of the clients she brought with her all those years ago are still with her too. “I’ve known some of them for 24 years,” she says.

So what is La Vida’s secret to success?

“We are constantly complimented on our friendly welcoming atmosphere and we have built a very loyal client base” says Rachel. “I think the key to our success is our personal touch.”

It’s clear that as well as taking good care of her customers, Rachel also looks after her staff who she describes as “family”.

“I’ve always been passionate about staff training and education. It’s something I heavily invest in as it’s a must to keep up-to-date with the latest trends, developments and techniques in hair,” Rachel explains.

As a result, La Vida’s stylist team offers a substantial range of services, while colour and cut are particular specialties, so much so that they are never fazed when asked to do colour corrections.

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La Vida uses the latest quality products by Matrix and K18, a company that supplies a revolutionary spray and mask that is a competitor to Olaplex. They also offer a new organics range for those keen on sustainability.

With Biggleswade having such a wide choice of hair salons, it’s no small feat that La Vida has remained so successful for 20 years. As well as having a talented team and a welcoming atmosphere, the salon has always aimed to be competitive, affordable, and value for money. All salon prices are listed on their website and unlike some hairdressers, there are no hidden extras or add-ons.

“Our pricing structure is transparent and straightforward,” explains Rachel, “and your hair journey starts and ends with your stylist who is trained to do it all.

Rachel is at the salon most of the time looking after her own clients, keeping an eye on the business, and supporting her staff.

“I’m very hands on” she admits, although it hasn’t always been easy. “I’ve had two children since starting the business so have had to juggle managing it with being a mum.”

As with all small businesses, the Covid pandemic has also been a challenge. Rachel made a big effort to maintain team morale during lockdown and ensured clients were kept safe when they were open. She admits it was very stressful at the time but was determined to remain positive.

“Fortunately, both our landlord and our clients were amazing during the pandemic – so supportive” she says.

She used the time to update the salon in February 2021, giving it a modern, fresh look with eye-catching backlit mirrors.

For their birthday celebrations, the salon was decked out with balloons and Rachel had anniversary biscuits made as gifts for her clients. The staff team was treated to a day out, a special meal, and drinks.

In recognition of their success, Rachel would like to thank La Vida’s clients and staff for helping them reach this milestone through both good and hard times.

“We wouldn’t be here without our clients, and my staff mean everything to me” says Rachel. “Business is good. We look forward to the future, welcoming new clients and another successful 20 years.”

La Vida Hairdressing, 1 Station Road, Biggleswade, Beds. SG18 8AH Tel: 01767 600510 Facebook: @lavidahair1 www.lavidahair.co.uk Instagram: la_vida_hair To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Gardening

What do we mean by exotic plants?

When we talk about exotic plants, it simply means those that are not native. Historically, here in the UK there has been a drive to promote the planting of native trees and shrubs, provided the provenance is known, because of the risks of pests and diseases.

The danger is lower when growing seed that has been harvested from trees grown here. The young plants tend to be more resilient and they display a better ability to adapt. Imported seeds, plants and trees carry a risk of introducing alien pests and diseases into the UK, against which our native species have no natural defence.

There is, however, a problem with the long-term biosecurity of our UK trees. Did you know there are now only around 30 truly native species, plus subspecies and hybrids that have naturalised themselves here? The term ‘native’ is generally defined as trees that established themselves in Britain around 10,000 years ago. This was the end of the last ice age, at a time when the English Channel was gradually forming.

Plant hunters began collecting specimens from around the world during Roman times. The activity saw plants introduced into Britain and this gradually opened the window for pests and diseases too. The

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Ages of Discovery and Enlightenment saw more and more explorers setting off around the world and bringing back unusual plants, in addition to teas, food, spices and animals. Many of the living species ended up in private collections or in botanical gardens.

This extended the range of plants within the UK, and we have come to love and admire many of these introduced species. The glorious Liquidambar, or sweet gum, for example, is native to Asia, parts of the Mediterranean and North America. Many acer trees originate not only from Japan but also from China and Korea. The tulip tree, Liriodendron tulipifera, hails from North America, and many of the flowering cherries originate from Japan, China and the USA. Even apple trees have an exotic history! The original ancestor of many modern apple cultivars can be linked back to an ancient apple: Malus sieversii. This wild apple is native to the mountains of Kazakhstan in Asia, where they can still be found today.

It’s not surprising that UK trees have succumbed to many devastating problems. One of the first to be widely recognised was Dutch elm disease, which was said to have been accidentally imported from

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Canada in the late 1960s. It is thought to have killed over 30 million elms. Ash dieback was first reported around ten years ago and this disease is expected to kill up to 95 per cent of Fraxinus excelsior. In the last 30 years there have been more than 20 serious problems caused by imported pests and diseases.

Many diseases are caused by fungus pathogens, such as Phythopthora ramorum, which is affecting larch trees, and Phythopthora pluvialis, which affects western hemlock, certain types of pine trees and the Douglas fir. The latter was originally found in Oregon in the USA. The Oak Processionary Moth, native to southern Europe, is now found in London and restrictions on movement of oak trees have recently been put in place by Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs).

This raises a question about exotic plants. Should we avoid planting them, or welcome species that are not native? Many people believe that the tipping point has now been reached. UK species are declining so rapidly that we need to extend the range of plants.

This means planting non-natives that will safeguard the future tree canopy of this green and pleasant island, especially now that we know the true value of trees in respect of tackling climate change.

There is a lot to be said for strength in diversity.

Planting exotic species together with natives will help to plan for the future, knowing that the climate is changing. It is estimated that summer

temperatures will rise by up to ten degrees centigrade by the end of the century. Extreme weather events, such as flooding, drought and high winds, are increasingly likely. UK wildlife generally prefers native species of tree and shrub, but looking to the future is now essential. Our woodlands, garden planting and the wider landscape requires future-proofing and cannot adapt fast enough without our help. The right plant in the right place, for both now and the future, has never been so important.

Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

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Under Pressure

Special Report

Which pressure washer should you buy?

By Matthew Carter If you’ve been thinking about buying a pressure washer but aren’t sure where to start we have some tips.

Pressure washer size is determined by the pressure it provides rather than the physical dimensions of the washer.

Pressure Washer Size Guide: Light duty: 100 bar / 1,500 PSI and below - use for cars, bikes, garden furniture, bins, and outdoor play equipment.

Medium duty: 100-200 bar / 1,500-2,800 PSI - use for fences, lawnmowers, gutters, sheds, walls, decking, patios, and driveways.

Heavy duty: 200+ bar / 2,800+ PSI - use if you have large, dirty walls, decking, patios, or a long driveway.

Water Flow Rate (WFR) - The water flow rate is measured in litres per minute or hour. High WFR + high PSI provides very efficient cleaning and rinsing capability.

Water Butt Connectivity - A water butt connection will allow you to purchase a compatible accessory that will connect your pressure washer to your water butt.

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This means that you can use the rainwater collected in your water butt for pressure washing, which saves you money and is kinder to the environment.

Extra features to consider - These will determine how easy your pressure washer is to use – consider wheels, hose length, and cord length.

Most pressure washers will come with a selection of attachments such as interchangeable wands, nozzles, brushes, and detergents. But you can also buy specialist accessories.

Caution - Be careful with windows; especially old ones because the pressure might be too strong for the pane causing it to crack. Some pressure washers have adjustable pressure settings, and a lighter pressure setting may be suitable for cleaning windows but check the manufacturer’s instructions.

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Garden View

Trellis

Trellis is underutilised in most gardens, yet it has a myriad of uses. It can cover an ugly wall or screen an ugly garden building, and it can be used on one or more sides of a patio to provide privacy. You can use it as a framework to support plants but can also be a decorative feature in its own right.

Strategically placed trellis can make a garden appear more interesting. Counterintuitively it can also provide the illusion of greater space by interrupting the line of sight and making people curious so drawing them out into the garden to explore.

Most garden centres have a good range of functional and attractive trellis, readymade into units. If you can’t find exactly what you are looking for there are companies who will precision cut a specific design and size for you. Obviously, you will pay more for the privilege, but you will get exactly what you want.

In a small space where you might only need one piece it can be a worthwhile investment, because in a small garden any structure is more noticeable and becomes a visual statement.

If you plan to grow plants up your trellis then make sure the posts or wall that it is fixed to will support the weight of the trellis plus the full-grown plant.

It can be tempting to plant a variety of climbers, but

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a small space often benefits from bold planting using fewer varieties. Beware of using all deciduous plants because the structure will look bare in the winter.

Vines such as Vitis coignetiae, which has large heartshaped leaves and beautiful autumn colour are great for a large area. V. vinifera ‘Purpurea’ has very attractive leaves which as the name suggests are purple. It produces bunches of dark, tightly clustered grapes.

Clematis are a good choice. C. montana is vigorous and might swamp a small trellis, but if you have the space they can be grown through other climbers and produce a fabulous summer display.

Ivies are good for winter colour. Don’t think that all ivies are dark green. H. Helix ‘Goldheart’ has super attractive yellow leaves edged in bright green while H. helix ‘Chester’ has leaves with wide cream margins and is good for brightening up a gloomy area.

Passion flowers look very exotic and are a particularly good choice for a trellis.

Scented climbing roses are one of my favourite plants to grow up trellis which is screening a patio.

I love ‘Compassion’, which has the most beautiful blooms in pink / apricot, and a strong, sweet fragrance. Prune every winter.

Remember to check trellis every year for broken or rotten supports and treat periodically with wood preservative to prolong its life and freshen its appearance.

Consider adding a trellis screen to your garden this summer.

Happy Gardening

By Rachael Leverton

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Technology

Cutting-edge technology The high-tech way to mow your lawn Every year we ask the same question: are robot lawnmowers affordable yet? And every year the answer gets a bit better. At the time of writing, the extremely impressive Flymo EasyLife 500 GO has dropped from £649 to £550, which is a lot for a lawn mower but not a lot of money for one that’ll do the mowing for you.

The Flymo is not the cheapest one around: the Yard Force Compact 400Ri is currently £385. It has a 20V battery and a 16cm cutting width, and it’s designed for lawns of up to 400 square metres. The Flymo can handle slightly bigger lawns of up to 500 square metres, but while there’s also an 800-square-metre model, it’s £300 more expensive.

The big benefit here is convenience, of course, but that convenience does cost you: there are lots of cordless human-controlled mowers for less than £200, with more premium models such as Bosch’s EasyRotak 36-550 coming in at £350 to £400. Those mowers tend to have much bigger cutting widths and more height adjustment, and they can handle

bigger batteries too: the 36V battery in the Bosch delivers more power and better battery life than the smaller blocks in robot mowers.

Cordless strimmers are cheaper still: well-known brands such as Black and Decker and Bosch come in at under £100, while some less famous brands come in at under £50 for similarly specified strimmers. It’s worth taking the battery system into account here, so, for example, the batteries that go into a Bosch or Black and Decker strimmer are interchangeable with the firms’ cordless power tools, including other garden tools. That means one battery can be used across multiple products, which can be bought in battery-free versions to save you money.

The big downside to any cordless tools is that sooner or later the batteries run out. You can address that by having an extra charged battery handy, or you could go for a corded device instead.

Bosch’s Rotak 32R is a solid option for smaller gardens at £89, while its EasyGrassCut strimmer is just £32.

Yard Force Compact 400Ri EasyGrassCut

Bosch’s EasyRotak 36-550

Flymo EasyLife 500 GO

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QUALITY HOME IMPROVEMENTS

• Conservatories • Orangeries • Modern Tiled Glazed Extensions • Garden Studios • Re-furbish your Existing Conservatory • Porches • Composite Doors • Bi-Folding Doors • Energy Rated Windows and Doors

‘The new generation of living space’

Your specialist local company, who build with care and dedication from design to completion.

Call 01438 728485 or 07796 394883 Visit our online showroom at

www.conservatech.co.uk

CALL 0800 0751779 To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Pets

Rehoming Appeal Henry & Mika

Henry and Mika were born in November 2019. Brother and sister, they are both neutered and vaccinated, and have been well looked after in their previous home.

They really are an adorable, devoted pair and love being picked up for cuddles, so they would be very suitable as a family pet.

At present these pampered bunnies live in a 6 ft double hutch. They would require a similar hutch plus the use of a run in the warmer weather.

For their comfort and welfare, our small mammals can only be adopted within an hour of their foster homes in Bedfordshire.

If you feel that you can offer this special pair of Dutch rabbits a home, please get in touch with Zoe on 01234 342150 Alternatively, you can email info.rats@gmail.com and your enquiry will be passed onto the team.

View the dogs, cats and small mammals currently in our care for rehoming 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

One Fun Day Is Finally Back!

Saturday 18th June 2022 – 9.30am to 5pm The RSPCA ‘One Fun Day’ is back with exciting events all across the country.

Join us for what promises to be a spectacular day.

On Saturday 18th June 2022 at the RSPCA Bedford shop on Thurlow Street (near the bus station), we will be taking part in the National RSPCA One Fun Day. This is just one of over 40 events happening simultaneously across the country organised by the RSPCA to support our network of branches, animal centres and all of the animals in our care, and we would love you to be part of it.

One Fun Day is back ‘in the real world’ this year following our covid enforced virtual fun days in recent years, and we’re getting ready to welcome you to a wonderful day of animal-themed fun.

We will be running a tombola, name the bear competition, adopt a pet (cuddly toys) and a lucky dip amongst other things! Naturally, we will also be having a raffle with a lot of really exciting prizes – some of which have been very kindly donated by local businesses. Prizes range from Amazon vouchers to a Marks and Spencer food hamper.

Face painting is another popular activity that we will be running in the shop. Why not ask our talented artist to transform you or a member of the family into their favourite animal?

If you or your business or company would like to donate any raffle prizes – it is not too late. Please contact the Bedford shop on the number below, or drop us an email.

And if you would like to offer to volunteer to help out at your local One Fun Day event, visit the national RSPCA website, search for ‘One Fun Day Volunteer’ and complete the short form so that you can be matched with your nearest local One Fun Day. Or call the shop with your enquiry.

No two One Fun Day events are the same. If you are not in Bedford on Saturday 18th June but would

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really like to support the event, why not log on to the national RSPCA website. You will then be able to find out what’s taking place in your area. Everything from charity shop parties, family nature walks and family fun days. Ampthill, Hitchin and Cambridge for example, are all hosting exciting activities. All designed for us to celebrate being One RSPCA and raise valuable funds to directly help animals whilst having fun in your local area.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Have you seen our Facebook page yet, which keeps you informed of the work we undertake in the local area? We also detail the fluffy friends that are looking for their new ”forever homes”.

Please search “RSPCA Bedfordshire North” within Facebook and feel free to follow our page. You’ll then be able to see our fabulous Jubilee window display, as designed and created by our shop manager, Elsie.

If you need to contact our Branch (North Bedfordshire) for any reason we can be reached by the details below, or for an animal welfare issue or emergency, contact 0300 1234 999.

Lines are open 7 days a week 24/7. info@rspcabedsnorth.org.uk 01234 266965 / 01234 930304

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Pottons Specialist Welding and Fabricating Company

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

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

ma m e G • • • •

stairs benches individual beds furniture

• • • •

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

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Pets

Ask Alan Hip Dysplasia in dogs

This is a developmental disease in dogs, meaning it gets worse as the puppy ages. It is a malformation of the hip joints so that the head of the femur is not cupped properly by the socket, the ligaments and joint being lose.

There are 2 phases of pain. In the younger dog, the hips are painful as the ligaments and capsule are stretched (often between 4 months and a year).

Later in life the hips become painful again as bony change and arthritis sets in – often after 2 years of age.

There are surgical corrective procedures that change the angulation of the pelvis so that the femur head is positioned better to relieve symptoms. These need to be done before the growth plates close so early diagnosis is essential.

A Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis is a relatively simple interventional surgery that must be carried out before 16 weeks to be most effective.

A triple Pelvic Osteotomy is a much more traumatic surgery but can be done at 8-10 months. Later in life a hip replacement can be considered.

The symptoms of hip dysplasia can be controlled, and the progression slowed, by keeping your dog lean and avoiding high impact exercise. Once they become painful, then a multi-modal approach is best, to include pain relief, Joint support, EFA supplementation, K-laser and physiotherapy.

Dogs do not express pain as we do and sometimes all you see is a slowing and reluctance to exercise. This is likely pain and not just old age.

There is now a monoclonal antibody injection that gives good pain relief with minimal side effects and new therapies continue to be developed so, even with hip dysplasia, your dog can lead a long and comfortable life.

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.

Making life easier

15 15 minute appointments

Call today:

Open until 7pm

Emergency appointments

Helpful printed notes

Family run by Alan & René

01767 260007

Appointments online at: pottonvets.co.uk 9 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP

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Motoring

First drive: is Suzuki’s new Vitara ‘Full Hybrid’ worth considering?

Ted Welford tests Suzuki’s new hybrid version of its Vitara crossover.

What is it? Suzuki was one of the first manufacturers to introduce a mild hybrid, but its full or plug-in hybrid systems came from a partnership with Toyota.

The compact Vitara SUV is the first model with the brand’s in-house-developed hybrid system.

What’s new? This new Vitara powertrain uses an adapted 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor and battery, but it gets no other changes except for a new ‘Eco’ driving mode.

What’s under the bonnet? The 1.5-litre engine is connected to a 140V lithium-ion battery and inverter.

The stats are unimpressive, with the combined setup providing just 113bhp and 138Nm of torque – the mild-hybrid version gives 127bhp and 235Nm of torque.

Accelerating to 60mph takes 12.5 seconds, while Suzuki claims a top speed of 111mph. The Vitara Full Hybrid has good fuel economy with a claimed 53mpg and low 121g/km CO2 emissions in frontwheel-drive form.

What’s it like to drive? At 2.5 seconds slower to 60mph than the standard car and with a powersapping six-speed automated manual gearbox, it hasn’t much going for it.

A few positives include a return of close to 50mpg in steady driving, and it’s comfortable enough.

How does it look? Suzuki hasn’t changed the Vitara’s looks and it remains an appealing and sturdylooking choice. There are some bright colours with a contrasting black roof for quite a smartly-styled SUV. It sits noticeably higher up than rivals like the Ford Puma and Renault Captur.

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What’s it like inside? The Vitara’s interior has standard Suzuki switchgear and a cheap tablet-like touchscreen that is functional and easy to use. The leather and suede-effect seats on top-spec cars look and feel good, though the same can’t be said for all the cabin materials.

There’s limited space, with the boot measuring just 289 litres. Avoid the top-spec SZ5 if you have rear passengers as the panoramic glass roof reduces headroom.

What’s the spec like? Equipment levels are good, with the SZ-T featuring 17-inch alloy wheels, climate control and the touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and satellite navigation as standard.

Safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control and blind-spot and rear cross-traffic monitoring.

Upgrade to the SZ5 for panoramic sunroof, suede seat upholstery, front and rear parking sensors and an option of all-wheel drive.

The Vitara Full Hybrid starts from £25,499 – £1,750 more than the mild hybrid – and rises to just short of £30,000 for a top-spec all-wheel-drive car.

Verdict - The main weakness of this new Suzuki Vitara Full Hybrid is that the standard car is better in most areas. This hybrid model is less powerful, much slower, more expensive and not as nice to drive as the mild-hybrid Vitara, thought it’ll be slightly cheaper to run.

If you like the Vitara, which you should as it’s well-equipped, looks good and offers great value, choose the mild hybrid, though it only has a manual gearbox. Consider a Ford Puma or Skoda Kamiq if an automatic is a must.

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Interiors

By Katherine Sorrell

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Choosing garden furniture Enhance your outside space with furniture that is handsome, comfortable, practical and long-lasting. Here are some tips on selecting the best options for you.

What could be nicer than relaxing over a coffee and a book on your balcony, enjoying drinks with friends in your courtyard or eating dinner with family in the garden? We all appreciate our outside spaces much more these days, and the trend is to treat them as extensions of our living areas, with lighting, soft furnishings and furniture that really suits the way we live. The good news is that huge changes in design and technology over recent years have brought about great improvements in the quality of outdoor furniture, ensuring that it is not only more comfortable to use but also looks better and lasts longer. There are endless choices, at all price levels, to suit any kind of outdoor lifestyle.

When picking out new garden furniture, the first question to ask is who will use the space, and what for? Will it be for meals, socialising or relaxing in the sun? How many people need to be accommodated,

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whether regularly or occasionally, and do they have any special requirements? Thinking about this will help decide what furniture you need, whether a dining set for six or more, a bar set, a small bistro set for two, a sofa and pair of armchairs with comfortable cushions, or a hammock, swing seat or set of loungers. In larger gardens, you may wish to have several groupings of furniture, and where there are beautiful views it is nice to place an armchair, bench seat or swinging egg chair so as to enjoy them. In a small garden, corner and L-shaped sofas, slim benches and foldaway chairs can help make the most of the space, or another way to compromise is to buy a set in which the table can be raised to dining height and, afterwards, lowered to act as a coffee table.

Consider where the furniture will be placed, as this will determine the largest sizes you can opt for.

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B urtenshaw D ecorating S ervices All Domestic Work Undertaken Painting, Decorating, Wallpapering Interior and Exterior Work Over 30 years experience Fully Insured Quality Workmanship City and Guilds Qualified Insurance Work

01767 680762 07972 622305 shadbeam@tiscali.co.uk 72

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You will need level ground, near the house, with enough space not only for the furniture but also to pull chairs in and out and to walk comfortably around the set-up. Pay attention to the way the sun moves around the garden and avoid any particularly exposed areas, and consider whether it’s either necessary for furniture to be so heavy that it doesn’t get blown away or light enough to be moved around easily. Scale is important, too – in a small space, chunky pieces may look out of place, while slender furniture can be ‘lost’ in a large garden.

Bear in mind that, for a good proportion of the year, you won’t be using your new garden furniture – but you will be able to see it from the house. Does it look good from all angles? Will it need a cover of some sort? And some elements – e.g. cushions – will need to be stored during winter, so ensure there is enough space available, indoors or out, to do this.

Finally, how will the furniture work with its surroundings and what styles do you prefer?

Depending on the period of the house and the look of the garden, you may opt for a deliberately traditional look, something very modern, or a timeless style that’s somewhere in-between. The natural colours of rattan and timber, in classic, elegantly rounded shapes, work beautifully with country gardens and older properties, while brighter colours and minimal, angular shapes look great with modern properties and urban courtyards. Garden furniture can be a major investment, so it is worth spending time researching all the alternatives online and in person, asking the retailer about materials, durability, aftercare and any guarantees. Choose pieces that reflect both the interior of the house and your personality – and you will enjoy them immensely for many years to come.

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2 What material is best for garden furniture?

Metal Choose rust-proof metal and it will be strong, durable and low maintenance, though will retain heat on warm days (don’t burn your legs when you sit down!). It can be powder-coated for a choice of colours.

Timber Teak contains natural oils that enhance its durability, while solid oak is naturally long-lasting, provided some regular aftercare is carried out. All timber will wear naturally over time, but bear in mind that cheaper woods will not last nearly as long.

Weatherproof wicker While natural wicker is not weather-resistant, this popular choice is made using a synthetic material that can be woven like real rattan, with variations of tone and texture, onto a lightweight aluminium frame. Quality versions look and feel like natural wicker but are completely weatherproof.

Plastic Can be a cheap option, but not always. Look for sculptural shapes, cool colours and eco-friendly, recycled credentials.

1 A classic foldable design in walnut-coloured timber, this dining set is practical, good-looking and affordable.

Copenhagen four-seat dining set, £599, Dobbies.

2 Give your garden a modern makeover with a dining set in powder-coated aluminium. Zuiver Vondel small garden table, £849; small garden bench, £439; and pair of garden armchairs, £518; all Cuckooland.

3 Hand-woven in synthetic rattan with waterproof cushions, this sofa set has a classic/contemporary look that works in many styles of outdoor space. Sussex mocha sofa and lounge armchairs with 113cm coffee table, £2,159, Bridgman.

STOCKISTS Bridgman: 020 8804 7474; bridgman.co.uk Cuckooland: 01305 231 231; cuckooland.com Dobbies: 0131 5616 406; dobbies.com

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What's On

WHAT'S ON IN JUNE 28 MAY-5 JUNE The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Children’s Trail 9.30am-4.30pm Jordans Mill, Broom £3 per child, Join in the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations dressed in your favourite prince or princess costume. Don’t forget to hand back your completed trail sheet back to the Mill Shop to claim your prize! jordansmill.com/events 1 JUNE Aircraft Enthusiasts’ Group 1pm Shuttleworth Guests £5. ‘Roald Dahl’s War’ with Graham Laurie. Meets on the first Wednesday of every month. Entry to Shuttleworth £15 (valid for one month). Email: 99aegr@gmail.com Web: www.a-e-g.org.uk 1, 8, 15, 22 & 28 JUNE Open Craft and Coffee 10-11.30am Potton Salvation Army, Chapel Street Everyone welcome. Tel: 01767 261138 2 JUNE Roxton & District Local History Group 7.15pm for 7.30pm Roxton Village Hall Members free, visitors £4 ‘Knights and Ladies, Peasants and Priests’. Annual membership £20.

Email: mariascreen1@gmail.com Web: roxtonhistory.org.uk 2 & 16 JUNE Sandy Astronomical Society 2 June 7pm Zoom general meeting followed by talk by Philip Short. 16 June 7.30pm Zoom talk by Dr Martin Braddock.

Email: info@sandyastro.co.uk Web: sandyastro.co.uk 3 JUNE Bedford Art Society 7.15pm for 7.30pm Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford Members free, visitors £5 Jill Buckingham paints portraits in soft pastels.

Tel: Jean Paterson 01234 307210 for info Web: www.bedsartsociety.co.uk

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3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24 & 27 JUNE Open Door. 10-11.30am Potton Salvation Army, Chapel Street Tea, coffee and chat. Mondays (not bank holidays) and Fridays. Everyone welcome. Tel: 01767 261138 4 JUNE Coffee Morning 10-11.30am Potton Salvation Army, Chapel Street Coffee, tea, bacon butties, homemade cakes, cards, Bric-a-Brac, Books and jigsaws etc. Held on the first Saturday every month except January. Tel: 01767 261138 4 JUNE Craft & Food Fayre 10am-3pm Jordans Mill, Broom Support local, independent traders.

A fantastic range of stalls including sweet treats, hand-made items, locally made foods and more. In the front car park and throughout the grounds of Jordans Mill.

4 JUNE Summer Fun 2-6pm Dunton Recreation Ground Dunton Recreation Association & Friends event. Bouncy castle, funtography, obstacle course, face painting, raffle, music, tombola, stalls, food, bar and much more.

6, 13, 20 & 27 JUNE Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-10.30pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Medium-sized social club for single people aged 40 upwards. Meets every Monday night.

Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 Web: www.branch-out.org.uk 7, 14, 21 & 28 JUNE Lunchtime Concerts 1pm St Paul’s Church, Bedford Free recitals with a retiring collection (suggested £5) in aid of church funds. 7 June Yiyan Shen (Piano), 14 June Simon Davies (Classical Guitar), 21 June Catherine Rose (Horn and Wind Instruments) and 28 June Alis An (Piano).

Tel: 01234 340163 8 JUNE Sandy Historical Research Group (SHRG) 10.30am-12.45pm £15 per person Visit to Southill House. Priority will be given to SHRG members. All monies will go to the Whitbread family trust. Tel: 01767 226392 Email: secretary@shrg.uk

5 JUNE Jubilee Flying Circus Air Show 9.30am-5pm Shuttleworth, Old Warden Park, Biggleswade Circus performers on the ground and in the air will leave you with wide eyes and open mouths, whilst a circus skills workshop will teach your children the ropes.

Web: www.shuttleworth.org/ jubileeflyingcircus

9 JUNE Magellan and Elcano: Around the World 8pm St Paul’s Church, Bedford Tickets £15. A play with music and Spanish dance. The play commemorates the 500year anniversary of the first circumnavigation of the globe; a remarkable achievement which changed the world forever.

Tel: 01234 340163 Tickets: www.eventbrite.com/cc/ catherine-of-aragon-festival-226039

5 JUNE Sunday Stroll 10.30am Forest Centre, Millennium Country Park, Marston Moretaine Free - donations welcome Gentle Sunday walk around the park lasting approximately 2 hours.

Tel: 01234 767037 for more details Web: www.marstonvale.org

10 JUNE Bedfordshire Family History Society 7pm and 7.30pm on Zoom Drama Theatre, Mark Rutherford School, Bedford AGM and ‘Lingering Legacies’ by Pamela Birch.

Web: www.bfhs.org.uk

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What's On

Deadline for What’s On entries is the 10th of the previous month.

What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.net

10 JUNE Carmen vs Carmen 8pm St Paul’s Church, Bedford Tickets £24. Performed by Iberica de Danza, the prestigious Madrid based company. Tel: 01234 340163 Tickets: www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/carmen-vs-carmentickets-301923500317 10, 17 & 24 JUNE Sandy Ukulele Group 7-9pm Baptist Chapel Hall, Bedford Road, Sandy Meets every Friday. sandyukulelegroup1@gmail.com www.sandyukulelegroup.com 11 JUNE Organ Recital with Ian Runnells 12pm St Paul’s Church, Bedford Ian is Director of Music at St Paul’s.

Free recital with a retiring collection (suggested £5) in aid of church funds. Tel: 01234 340163 11 JUNE Joe Broughton’s Conservatoire Folk Ensemble.

7.30pm Sutton Village Hall Tickets £15. This is a group of 45 young musicians from the Birmingham Conservatoire “one of the most inspirational folkbands on the circuit today” Artree.

Tickets: www.suttonvillagehall.org. uk/events 12 JUNE (Not Strictly) Jazz 5 - 7pm Fairfield House, Fairfield Road, Biggleswade SG18 0AA Tickets £20, 10 - 18 £10. Featuring Dave Foster on piano, the quartet will perform songs from The Great American Songbook. Contact Sarah Tel 01767 312176 or email sarahwiggs@hotmail.co.uk 13 JUNE Sandy Flower Club 7.30pm. he Conservative Bowls Club Pavilion (rear of the Conservative Club, Bedford Road) Visitors £5. The Flower Club meets second Monday in the month (excluding Jan, Aug and Dec).

Tel: Sue Alexander 01767 699729

16 JUNE Bedford RSPB Local Group Walk 7pm. Evening walk at Marston Thrift. Meet in the car park at the very end of Wood End MK43 0NY (SP 972 412). Tel: 07905 199769 Web: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/ bedford 18 JUNE Craft Fair 10am-3pm Biggleswade Social Club Support local small businesses. thestitchincraftcabin@outlook.com facebook.com/crafteventsatbiggs 18 & 19 JUNE Bolnhurst Vintage & Country Fayre Open 10am St Neots Rd, Bolnhurst Entry £7, OAPs £5, 10-16 years £5, under 10 free. Miniature steam engines, vintage cars, tractors, motorbikes, military and vintage Caravans. Market stalls, art and crafts. Real ale bar and W.I tea tent.

Tickets cash only. Janet 01234 376577 Web: www.bolnhurstrally.co.uk 19 JUNE Biggleswade Antique & Vintage Fair 9am-4pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Café serving food and drinks all day.

Free parking. Wheelchair/pushchair access. Tel: Marcel 07887 648255 Web: www.marcelfairs.co.uk 21 JUNE Sandy Women’s Institute 10am-12pm Sandy Conservative Club, Bedford Road, Sandy Visitors £4. Meets third Tuesday of every month, except August.

Tel: 01767 680644 Email: sandywibeds@gmail.com 21 JUNE Bedford National Trust Association AGM 2.30pm Addison Centre, Kempston AGM and refreshments. Mike Muncaster will talk on ‘Gone for a Burton’. Mike has been a speaker in the past and his talks are always enjoyable. No admission charge for AGM. Everyone welcome. Parking.

Tel: Robin Salter 01234 261897

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24 JUNE Stayin Alive - Bee Gees Tribute Night 7pm Millennium Country Park, Marston Moretaine Tickets £15. The band have toured the world with their insanely accurate Bee Gees tribute show and will perform songs from the ‘Night Fever’ classics to the more modern hits. Book online. Tel: 01234 767037 Web: www.marstonvale.org 25 JUNE Castle Comedy Doors open 7.30pm, show 8pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Rd, Biggleswade A great night out in a friendly environment with some of the UK’s finest comedians on the bill.

Web: www.castlecomedy.co.uk/ biggleswade-home 26 JUNE Ickleford Open Gardens 12 noon - 5pm Adults £5, accompanied under 14s free. Ploughman’s lunches, cream teas and gluten free and vegan cakes. Proceeds to the St. Katharine’s Church.

Tel: Rosemary 01462 454760 Email: rhgillham@hotmail.com 1 JULY Great Expectations 7.30pm Sutton Village Hall Tickets £15. The talented theatrical group, Hotbuckle, will return to perform their own adaptation of ‘Great Expectations’ by Charles Dickens. Tickets: www. suttonvillagehall.org.uk/events 3 JULY Red Kite Concerts 2022. 5-6pm St. John’s Church, Cockayne Hatley Tickets £15, under 18s free Sarah O’Flynn is joined by Clare Finnimore and Tomos Xerri in a programme of evocative music for flute, viola and harp, including works by Debussy, Ravel, Bax and Takemitsu. Tickets available online or on the door.

Web: www.redkiteconcerts.com

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T&R Roofing Ltd Family Business Est. 1985 • Felt Roofing Specialists (10 year & 15 year guarantee on high performance felts) • Tiling, Slating, Guttering • UPVC Fascia/Soffits • Chimney Work All NEW work guaranteed Fully insured for employer & Public Liability Contact Tony Simpson for a FREE estimate on:

T: 01767 314847 M: 07831 849847

E: admin@tandrroofingltd.co.uk

Your Perfect Loft Access and Storage Solution Our services include: Loft Ladders Loft Hatches Insulation Loft Boarding Loft Lighting Balustrades We are a family run business who comply to building regulations, where our fitters are fully insured and all of our work is guaranteed.

Covering Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Essex.

01438 211302 info@eastanglianloftladders.co.uk eastanglianloftladders.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

Call now for a free, no obligation quotation 77

Baking

Strawberry Mousse

A delicious creamy summer dessert served in small glasses or ramekins.

Fresh raspberries can be used instead of strawberries.

Ingredients ½ tsp acai powder or superfood berry powder, optional 250g strawberries, fresh or frozen 75g coconut oil, melted 75g cashew nuts or macadamia nuts Juice of a large orange 2 tsp maple syrup Fresh berries to serve, optional

Preparation time: 15 minutes Chilling time: 1 hour Serves 4 1. For the mousse, place all the ingredients in a high speed blender and process until smooth and creamy. Spoon the mousse into small glasses or ramekins.

2. Ideally, chill for 1 hour before serving. Top with fresh berries, if wished.

Nutrition per serving: 329kcal, fat 28g (of which saturates 18g), carbohydrates 14g (of which sugars 8.4g), protein 3.3g

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ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Sudoku

Hard Sudoku

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

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DRIFTWOOD JOINERY LTD Specialists in Bespoke Joinery

Mark Dilley Electrical Part P Registered Company 22386 Extra sockets - Lighting Extensions - Re-wires Security Lighting - Showers Inspections Electric Vehicle Charging Points

No job too small Free estimates All work to BS7671 regulations City and Guilds qualified

Conservatories • Doors • Windows Staircases Handmade Kitchens Handmade Bedroom Furniture

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

• • • • • • • • • •

Tel: 01767 261008 Mob: 07990 895430

mark.dilley@btinternet.com

Potton Windows is the only Commercial & Domestic local company to be awarded Vertical Sliding Sash Windows the Secured By Design Casement Windows accreditation, to all products Residential & French Doors manufactured at its Potton Factory, this is a Police Patio Doors Preferred specification for ‘A’ Rated Windows greater security.

Misted up double glazed units replaced Discounts for pensioners available on windows FENSA Certification 10 Year Insurance Backed Guarantee

01767 260626 sales@pottonwindows.co.uk www.pottonwindows.co.uk

Unit 2-6 Shannon Place, Potton SG19 2SP 82

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MUSCLE

RELIABLE ROOFING COMPANY

& MOTOR Jumbo van with up to 3 men.

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

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

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ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 35 YEARS BUILT UP FELT ROOFING SPECIALISTS & GENERAL ROOF REPAIRS • SLATE & TILE • REPLACEMENT FASCIAS/ SOFFITS, UPVC OR TIMBER • GUTTERING MAINTENANCE & REPLACEMENT • GUARANTEED WORKMANSHIP AT REALISTIC PRICES PROPRIETOR R.S. CROW F.I.O.R. • FREE ESTIMATES

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

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Crossword Puzzle Solution from our May Edition Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Philip Carter, Stukeley Meadows, Huntingdon

May’s Codeword and Sudoku Solutions

Easy

Hard

Advertising in The Villager is easy.

To find out more call Nigel on 01767 261122 or email nigel@villagermag.com To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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The Villager Prize Crossword Prize

£25

Across 1 Type of pudding (7) 5 Trimmed (5) 8 Large pebbles (5) 9 Brutal (7) 10 At right angles (13) 11 Without effort (6) 12 Grieves for (6) 15 A protest (13) 18 Financial system (7) 19 Beverage (5) 20 Stairs (5) 21 Hauled (7)

Complete the crossword and fill in your details below, before

16th June 2022 Either cut out this page and send to Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd. 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Or photograph your entry and email to competitions@villagermag.com The winner will be drawn at random from the correct entries.

Down 1 Sticky liquid (5) 2 Accompanies (7) 3 Assorted (13) 4 Split (6) 5 Book of facts (13) 6 Snarl (5) 7 Removes weapons (7) 11 Goes on forever (7) 13 Fence (7) 14 Remained (6) 16 Large deer (5) 17 Nude (5)

Name:

Address:

86



Tel:

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

• Remote Control Door

SANDY • POTTON • All Major Brands

Supplied and Serviced

BIGGLESWADE • Call for a Free AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Quotation

• OAP Rates Available

01767 260165 Sandy

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

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C.S.

ROOFING SERVICES LTD

Flat Roofing • Tile Roofing • Slating Leadwork • Guttering • uPVC Fascias & Soffits Free Quotations Fully Insured

40 Years Collective Experience 10 Year Guarantee on all work

Tel: 07498 983850 Email: charliesewell@hotmail.co.uk 88

C.S Roofing Services Limited

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

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Books

Summer Reads

Summer tiiime, and the living is eeeeasy…. Whether you’re looking for some barbecue inspiration or a new novel to keep you company on the hammock, we’ve got you covered.

By Kate Duggan

We can professionally clean...

Carpets Upholstery Fascias Soffits Gutters Conservatories Patios Driveways 01767 222 822 07812 335 860 www.pkcleaningservicesltd.co.uk Find us on

Tom Kerridge’s Outdoor Cooking Tom Kerridge

From Umami Mushroom & Halloumi Burgers to Shawarma Chicken Wraps, Tom Kerridge’s recipes will lift your barbecuing endeavours to the next level. Don’t panic, none of them will keep you tied to the kitchen while your friends are enjoying themselves with a beer in the garden. They may well nudge you into barbecuing daily well into autumn though.

One Italian Summer Rebecca Serle

Reeling from the death of her mother, Katy heads to Italy on what was supposed to be a long-awaited mother-anddaughter trip. While there, she meets the 30-year-old version of her mother – almost unrecognisable from the woman Katy’s known all her life. As the two women become friends against the vivid backdrop of the Amalfi Coast, Katy works through her grief and discovers a lot more about herself in the process.

The Modern Gardener Frances Tophill – published by Kyle Books

If spending time outdoors has got you itching to make some changes to your garden, this book is a good place to look for inspiration. As the subtitle explains, it’s intended as ‘a practical guide to gardening creatively, productively and sustainably’. You’ll find bags of information on everything from designing your garden, choosing plants and addressing common challenges to using your garden plants to make drinks, natural dyes and more.

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

91

Classifieds Accountants

Electricians

Builders

Electricians

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

Garage conversions from £5.9K

Extension - Sunrooms

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

• • • • •

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

Domestic Appliance Repairs

Fencing

Domestic Appliance Repairs Guaranteed Repairs To:

Washing Machines • Tumble Dryers Electric Ovens/Cookers • Dishwashers No Call Out Charge!

JB Domestic

Tel: 01767 680621 or Mob: 07778 891490

QUO FR TAT EE ION S

Fencing Services, Security Fences, Gates, Garden Fences, Repair & Restoration Call 01767 316901 or 07927 748460 Email: rsfencingservices83@gmail.com Web: www.rsfencingservices.co.uk

Domestic Appliance Repairs

Solo Appliances Domestic Appliance Repairs • • • •

Washing machines Tumble Dryers Dishwasher Electric Cookers/Ovens

Established over 30 years All work guaranteed

Tel: 07966 229085/01767 261847

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From just £35.00 per month plus VAT

Call Nigel on 01767 261122 for more information Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Classifieds Festival

Handy Man

Foot Health Practitioner

Mortgage Specialist

Are you looking for a mortgage?

We can help with:

Katie Charles - Foot Health Practitioner - S.A.C. Dip. RFHP

MOVING HOME • HELP-TO-BUY FIRST TIME BUYERS • REMORTGAGING BUY TO LET

Professional footcare in the comfort of your own home Nail Trimming • Corns • Fungal Nail • Athletes Foot Hard Skin/Callus • Verruca Treatment • Thickened Nail Tel: 07841 479120 Email: katiefoothealth@gmail.com

01767 260800

ELITE MORTGAGES

enquiries@elite-mortgages.com

Garden Specialist

Oven Cleaning

Haberdashery

Painter & Decorator

RICHBAW

DECOR LTD Richard Bawden - City and Guilds Qualified Mobile: 07757 013796 Home: 01767 835008 Email: r666baw@gmail.com To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Classifieds Painter & Decorator

Plumbing and Heating

Painting Services

Plumbing and Heating

Plastering Services

Property Improvements

Plumbing

Property Improvements

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USEFUL NUMBERS

VILLAGER The

and Town

Life

Alcoholics Anonymous..............................0845 769 7555 Al-Anon Family Groups..............................0800 008 6811 Anglian Water............................................08457 145 145 Bedford Hospital........................................ 01234 355122 Lister Hospital............................................ 01438 314333 Addenbrooks Hospital............................... 01223 245151 Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue.................... 01234 845000 Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue................... 01438 729041 Carers Line..................................................0808 808 7777 ChildLine...........................................................0800 1111 Citizens Advice...........................................0344 245 1292 Cocaine Anonymous..................................0800 689 4732

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.

Crimestoppers..............................................0800 555 111 Cruse Bereavement Care............................0333 252 9152 Floodline....................................................0845 988 1188 Frank-Drug Advisory....................................0800 776 600 National Debt Line.....................................0808 808 4000 Gas Emergency............................................0800 111 999 NHS..............................................................................111 National Rail Enquiries..............................03457 48 49 50 Non Emergency Police Line.........................................101 NSPCC.........................................................0808 800 5000 Pre-bereavement Helpline Support..........0808 801 0688 Relate..........................................................0845 48 49 50 RSPCA Cruelty Line....................................0300 1234 999 Samaritans............................................................116 123 Tax Credit Helpline.....................................0345 300 3900 Victim Support..........................................0845 30 30 900 To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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

Tel: 01767 261122 Email: nigel@villagermag.com Web: www.villagermag.com 95

At friends five star hairdressing & beauty we pride ourselves in creating fantastic hair, giving our clients relaxing beauty treatments and top customer service but we also offer as a salon these extra benefits Award winning salon - Best salon Bedfordshire 2020 & Best colour salon Bedfordshire 2020 Online booking system & App - App available to download in the app or play store “Friends5star” Specialised stylists in colouring, hair extensions and wig cutting We’re open Monday and two late evenings - Wednesday and Thursday until 9pm A salon that invests in training for all the latest cutting and colouring techniques Free colour consultations • Shiatsu Massage chairs Beauty treatment room within the salon - have everything done under one roof Unisex salon with disabled access • Local free car park Eco-friendly product range - Award winning products with tailored aftercare advice Extensive refreshment list

HAIR STYLIST VACANCY

Part time or full time hours • Saturdays & Late evening included Employed with all the benefits - paid holidays, company pension, flexible working hours Contact Liz in confidence at info@friendsfivestarhairdressing.com

Like our page or follow us on @friendshair @friendshair_beauty To keep updated with everything at Friends

Call us on 01767 682789

Opening Hours: Monday & Tuesday 9.00am - 5.30pm Wednesday & Thursday 9.30 - 9.00pm, Friday 9.30am - 6.00pm Saturday 8.30 - 4.00pm www.friendsfivestarhairdressing.com facebook.com/friendshair

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