Potton Nov 2018

VILLAGER The

Issue 147 - November 2018

and Town

Life

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

In this issue Win a Spa Day for two at

Champneys Henlow The History of the

Remembrance Day Poppy Win £25 in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People in

Biggleswade, Sandy, Potton, Gamlingay and all surrounding villages To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

ur Yo EE FRco1py

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Inside this issue...

Win Tickets to see The Overtones

10 The History of the Remembrance Day Poppy.......................................... 4 Why Wear a Poppy?................................................................................ 9 Win Two Tickets to see The Overtones................................................... 10 Win a Spa Day for Two at Champneys Henlow...................................... 12 Cambridge Tea Party Groups Looking for Volunteers............................ 14 Pure Air................................................................................................ 18 P&R Interiors........................................................................................ 22 Making an Entrance............................................................................. 25 Flavours of the Levant.......................................................................... 28 Choose the Perfect Winter Coat............................................................ 31 Making a Difference............................................................................. 32 Karnak, Egypt....................................................................................... 34 Time for some TLC................................................................................ 36 Freat Health, Wellbeing and Fitness Gifts............................................. 39 The Frenemy!....................................................................................... 45 Tips on how to work your denim with style.......................................... 46 Save with a Service.............................................................................. 48 Restoration Project Regenerates areas of Heathland............................ 50 SAD Times............................................................................................ 53 Can you still get a mortgage as an older borrower?.............................. 54

The Great Cover-Up.............................................................................. 59 Rural Ramblings................................................................................... 60 RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch is 40......................................................... 62 R.A.T.S. Rehoming Appeal.................................................................... 65 Animal Stories...................................................................................... 67 Thinking about getting a kitten?.......................................................... 68 Ask Alan - Potton Vets.......................................................................... 70 Children’s Page..................................................................................... 72 Arrows Elite.......................................................................................... 73 Making Christmas Extra Special........................................................... 74 How to deal with pothole damage to your car..................................... 77 Alexa! I’m in the Car!............................................................................ 79 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe............................................................... 80 Local Trademen and Women Targeted by Thieves................................. 83 Leaf Matter, Leaves Matter................................................................... 84 What’s On............................................................................................. 86 Black Friday and Cyber Monday............................................................ 89 Second Chance Careers......................................................................... 90 Puzzle Page.......................................................................................... 92 Britain’s Quirkiest Bonfire Night Celebrations....................................... 95 Prize Crossword.................................................................................. 100 Book Review...................................................................................... 107

RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch is 40

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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 - Catherine Rose, Sarah Davey, Louise Addison, Kate Duggan, Katherine Sorrell, Trevor Langley, Tracey Anderson, Solange Hando, Alison Runham, Sarah Davey, Jennie Billings, Tom Hancock, Ann Haldon, Pippa Greenwood, Geoff Wharton, RSPCA, Potton Vets, James Baggott, Iain Betson, Nick Coffer, Dr Ken German, Rachael Leverton and Kate McLelland.

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

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

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

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History

By Catherine Rose

The History of the Remembrance Day Poppy With celebrations to mark the centenary of the end of the First World War, the humble but striking poppy will once again be evident as a symbol of hope and remembrance. But what is its history?

Over the four years that the Great War raged, the fields of Flanders in Belgium that saw much of the bloody trench warfare were decimated. Stumps were left in place of trees and the once lovely landscape turned into acres of bare earth, muddy craters and barbed wire.

But like some miracle of life triumphing over death, out of this devastation grew hundreds of field poppies.

Part of the papaver family (papaver rhoeas) and a wildflower that is as delicate as it is hardy, it is a plant that seeds best in fresh earth. The Flanders Poppy, as it came to be known, therefore thrived in the barrenness. Its poignancy was not lost on all those who saw it – its bright red colour echoed the bloodshed of all the lives lost and the fact it

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could grow in such devastation made it the perfect symbol of hope for the future.

Canadian WW1 soldier and poet John McCrae wrote the now famous poem ‘In Flanders Fields’ about their significance in 1915. (Incredibly, this poem was rejected by The Spectator when it was first submitted.)

But it was an American University Professor from Georgia, Moina Michael, who first set out to make wearing the poppy a symbol of honouring the war’s dead. After reading a copy of McCrae’s poem, she was so moved that she promptly went out to Wannamaker’s – a department store in New York – and bought all the artificial poppies they had.

She then went about selling them as souvenirs of remembrance under the banner ‘keep the faith’.

By the end of 1918, Moina was working with a designer to produce a poppy design that could become a national emblem. The initial drawing

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was of a poppy made up of all the colours of the Allied flags which was intertwined with the Statue of Liberty. The original design was abandoned but, due to Moina’s efforts, the National American Legion adopted the poppy as their symbol, agreeing to wear it on Armistice Day, 11th November.

At this point, a French lady named Anna Guérin who was a member of the French Young Women’s Christian Association, takes over the story. While attending an American Legion Convention in 1920, she was so taken with the idea of the poppy not only as a global symbol of remembrance but also as a way of raising funds, that she decided to start mass producing artificial poppies to sell as badges in France. The funds from the sale of these poppies would be used to help war widows and orphans.

After they proved a success in France, Anna took them abroad, working with Moina Michael on distribution across the US. In England, she met Field Marshall Douglas Haig, who was also the first president of the (Royal) British Legion, founded in 1921. Haig was sympathetic to her idea, knowing that there were many veterans suffering financial hardship.

The first British Legion Poppy Day Appeal took place in 1921 with nine million poppies being sold.

It raised over £100,000. The other allied countries soon followed suit.

In 1922, Major John Howson opened the first UK poppy factory in London. Howson had received the Military Cross during the First World War and had subsequently set up The Disabled Society to help provide employment for disabled veterans.

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His initial staff were five disabled ex-soldiers.

Today there are two poppy manufacturers in the UK – The Poppy Factory in Richmond (the original poppy factory that relocated) and The Lady Haig Poppy Factory in Edinburgh. The Scottish poppy is slightly different to the English in that it has four petals instead of three and no leaf.

Both are staffed by ex-servicemen and women and produce millions of poppies annually. The Poppy Factory also does free tours which are open to all and where you can purchase special poppy souvenirs, including china.

Over the years, the paper poppy badge we all know so well has diversified and you can now buy silk and enamel versions as well as giant poppies to fix to your car. An initiative set up by the RBL also encourages communities to knit poppies for local fundraising and there is a knitting pattern on their website.

Between July and November 2014, the moat at the Tower of London was filled with ceramic poppies in an art installation by Paul Cummins and Tom Piper entitled ‘Blood-swept Lands and Seas of Red’ to honour the centenary of the start of the Great War. They were a stunning sight and many thousands of visitors went to see them.

Along with the crosses and wreaths that will be placed on war memorials across the country on Remembrance Sunday in this centenary year, armies of volunteers will sell millions of poppies in the run up to 11th November. The idea behind them remains the same – a non-religious, noncultural symbol of remembrance that helps to raise money for veterans and their families.

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Time of Year

By Sarah Davey

Why wear a Poppy?

It’s over a century since more than nine million soldiers were killed during the First World War. The last of the veterans from that era are dead and many young people know little about the causes and devastating aftermath of the conflict.

Many refuse to wear a poppy because they think it glorifies war. Perhaps it’s more important than ever that we discuss the poppy’s place in history.

Much of the worst fighting in World War 1 took place in Flanders, the western part of Belgium.

The area suffered terribly, with homes, farms, roads and trees all completely destroyed. The land became a bleak, muddy graveyard for the thousands of soldiers who fell there.

One plant, however, thrived in the disturbed soil and that was the poppy. Year after year, as the warm weather arrived, the poppies bloomed and turned the grim bare ground into a sea of red.

At that time, fighting in Flanders was a young Lieutenant, Colonel John McCrae, a Canadian physician. In May 1915, his close friend and fellow soldier was killed in action. Seeing the poppies growing alongside his grave moved McCrae to write the poem ‘In Flanders Fields’, which was later published in Punch magazine.

The idea to use the poppy as a symbol of remembrance for dead soldiers came from an American professor and YWCA worker, Moina Michael, in 1918. She wrote a poem in reply to McCrae’s called ‘We Shall Keep the Faith’ and

started to sell silk poppies. The idea was adopted by the American Legion in 1920 and she became known as ‘The Poppy Lady’.

In 1921, Anna E Guerin started making artificial poppies in France and gained the support of Field Marshal Douglas Haig, founder of the Royal British Legion.

The first poppy appeal was held on Armistice Day 1921. It was hugely popular and, despite a recommended selling price of threepence per poppy, single petals sold for £5. In all, the appeal raised £106,000 – that’s nearly £30 million in today’s terms!

In recent years some people have chosen to wear a white poppy, either instead of or alongside a traditional red one. White poppies symbolise pacifism and also remember the civilians killed in conflicts past and present, as well as the soldiers.

The idea is not a modern one as I originally assumed; it was initially put forward in 1926 by the No More War Movement, and the first white poppies were sold by the Cooperative Women’s Guild in 1933. They are now distributed by the Peace Pledge Union, a British pacifist nongovernmental organisation that works for a world without war.

However you choose to wear your poppy this year I hope you now have a greater understanding of the interesting and complex story behind this iconic flower.

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Win 2 tickets to see The Overtones Wed 5th Dec 2018 at Cambridge Corn Exchange

The Overtones are back on the road with a 22 date UK tour starting on November 22nd at Watford Colosseum and ending with a special festive show at London’s Indigo at the O2 on December 20th 2018.

Promising “a night to remember” the group will be joined on stage by their band to perform favourites from their previous Top 10 albums as well as songs from the new record. Tickets for the tour are available from gigsandtours.com with VIP packages from sjm-vip.com.

The group – Lachie Chapman, Mike Crawshaw, Darren Everest and Mark Franks also announced their sixth studio album ‘The Overtones’ October 19th 2018. The first track to be shared, ‘You To Me Are Everything’, - with the group’s signature old-school cool, modern vintage vibe and trademark vocal harmonies - is a perfect teaser for the new album.

“a brilliant night out” Daily Record Since bursting onto the scene in 2010 with their debut ‘Good Ol’ Fashioned Love’, the group has sold over a million records. This self-titled album, however, will be the first release as a four piece following the passing of their bandmate and friend Timmy Matley in April. Teaming up, once again, with producer Julian Hinton and engineer Simon Bloor, the album – a collection of thoughtfully chosen covers and originals - is a tribute to Timmy, a celebration of everything that the group has achieved together, a thank you to their loyal and supportive fans and a statement of intent for the future.

Competition

THE OVERTONES COMPETITION ENTRY

Which Overtone appeared on British comedy drama series on Channel 4 ‘Crashing’?

1. Darren Everest  2. Mike Crawshaw  3. Lachie Chapman  4. Mark Franks 



To enter, answer the question and complete the form below and send to: Overtones Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP. Deadline: 16th November 2018.

Name: Tel: Email: Address:

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Win a Spa Day at Champneys Henlow for two Make time for some well-deserved rest and relaxation at Champneys Henlow. Set in 150 acres of beautiful Bedfordshire parkland, Henlow Grange serves as an idyllic countryside spa escape.

Experience the delights of a full day of pampering with a delicious three course buffet lunch to enjoy half way through. Get comfortable in the cosy Champneys robe and flip-flops that you’ll be given for the day and try out the spa facilities, including swimming pool, steam room, sauna, and whirlpool.

It really is the perfect way to unwind.

Henlow in Bedfordshire, offers sumptuous accommodation in elegant surroundings, delicious cuisine, treatments and therapists focusing on both inner health and outer beauty, not to mention the latest fitness trends. Spend a day with us, and you’ll get a feel for how much we have to offer. A Day to Remember.

For more information visit: champneys.com Terms and conditions apply. Valid Monday to Thursday only. Prize must be booked and taken within 6 months from the date of issue, subject to availability. Guests must be 16 years or over, non-refundable and non-transferable.

Travel to the spa is not included. Prize cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Competition

To enter, answer the question and complete the form below and send to: Champneys Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP. Deadline: 16th October 2018. The winner can choose which date they wish to attend.

Champneys Henlow Grange is set in or how many acres of parkland a) 200  b)150  c) 300 



CHAMPNEYS HENLOW COMPETITION ENTRY

Name: Tel: Email: Address: Please tick this box if you wish to receive further information from Champneys  12

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Local News

Cambridge Tea Party Groups For Isolated Older People Looking for New Volunteers Come and join us for a cuppa and cake!

Contact the Elderly is a national charity dedicated to tackling loneliness and isolation among older people. There are five Contact the Elderly ‘tea party’ groups in Cambridge, which meet one Sunday afternoon each month for tea, cake and companionship. In order for this to be possible, the charity is appealing for volunteers who could spare a few hours each month to drive one or two older guests to their tea, or help with the running of local tea parties – and enjoy a cuppa themselves!

The charity aims to relieve loneliness amongst older people, aged 75 and above, who live alone.

Each older guest is collected from their home by a volunteer driver and taken to a volunteer host’s home, where they meet with a small group for tea, chat and friendship. The group is warmly

welcomed by a different host each month, but the drivers remain the same which means that over the months and years, acquaintances turn into friends and loneliness is replaced by companionship.

Contact the Elderly’s Support Officer, Georgina Sells, said: “Activities for people aged 75 and above are normally limited to weekdays, so Sunday can be a particularly long and difficult day. Our tea parties are sometimes the only social outing our guests have in a month, so they can make a real difference. However, there’s a shortage of volunteers in the area. Anyone who can spare a couple of hours one Sunday a month, has a driving licence, a car and a capacity for drinking tea, is eligible! We are also looking for coordinators to help with the running of the groups. It’s not a big commitment, and our volunteers genuinely get as much out of the experience as our older guests, so I’m calling for anyone who is interested in giving something back to their community to please get in touch with me as soon as possible.”

Residents in the Cambridge area, who are interested in volunteering for Contact the Elderly once a month as a driver, or as a group coordinator, or in hosting the group once or twice a year can contact Georgina Sells georgina.sells@contact-the-elderly.org.uk 0207 078 8998 or Freephone 0800 716543 14

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PFYP_Villager_ad_Sep_15.qxp_Layout 1 01/09/2015 11:00 Page 1

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Artist and tutor Mary Booth welcomes students of all levels from beginner to the experienced painter looking to improve.

Work in small groups with others of similar ability level, gain confidence and improve your skills.

Courses are held at Mary’s studio in Gamlingay, in blocks of five weekly sessions, throughout the year.

Visit www.painting-for-your-pleasure.co.uk for more information or call 01767 654920 This advert and the Painting for your pleasure website have been produced by thecreativemix. Please visit www.creative-mix.co.uk to see the ‘exciting and inspiring’ communications we can provide for your business or organisation.

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Health

By Louise Addison

Pure Air

What you need to know about air-purifiers Do you suffer with allergies? Are you particularly sensitive to chemical smells from cleaning fluids or detergents? Do you live on a busy road and worry about pollution levels? You might benefit from an air-purifier.

Indoor air pollutants fall into three main categories: Particles For example: dust, pollen, and pet dander.

Microorganisms and bioaerosols For example: dust mites, viruses, bacteria, mould spores, fungi.

Chemical vapours and odours For example: volatile organic compounds (VOCs), odours, smoke and perfumes, including those given off by cleaning products, and cooking smells.

Air purifiers work to filter these contaminants out of your air. Anyone sensitive to allergens or with asthma might benefit from an air purifier Unfortunately, an air purifier isn’t a miracle replacement for keeping your home clean and ventilating it when possible. The most effective way to manage pollutants in your air is still to avoid introducing them in the first place.

Preventive measures like not smoking indoors, vacuuming regularly, including upholstery, allowing fresh air in on occasion and keeping solid surfaces sanitized are still the best ways to combat indoor air issues.

Air purifiers remove pollutants from the air using one of three methods: filtration, electrostatic precipitation and ionizing. Ionizing air-purifiers work by causing particles to attach to surfaces or

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to each other and settle out of the air, but they are not recommended for asthma sufferers as they produce ozone which can trigger an attack.

Using a filter-based air purifier is considered the healthiest and most effective option.

The most effective form of air filtration is a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate absorber) filter. Models with filters suck in your home’s air and move it through the filter with a circulating fan. When the air moves through each filter, any pollutants and particles are caught in the filter. The clean air is then pushed back out into your space. HEPA filters do a better job here than a standard filter because they can catch finer particles.

Air purifiers vary hugely in price. The major difference is typically the quality of the air or how big an area it can purify effectively. Most models are designed to sit on the floor, but you can find table-top or wall-mounted designs. You will need a model big enough for your room but bear in mind that the bigger the model the more energyintensive it will be.

CADR on an air purifier label stands for ‘clean air delivery rate and is a measure of how quickly the purifier can deliver clean air. The higher the CADR, the more quickly the air purifier can filter your air. You might also see MERV, which stands for ‘minimum efficiency reporting value’ where the lowest rating is 1 and the highest is 20. HEPA filters rate between 17 and 20.

Lastly, give your home a thorough deep clean before purchasing and installing an air-purifier, to give it the best chance of providing relief.

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With a spacious working showroom in the heart of Bedford, P & R Interiors is a local family-run firm that provides inspirational modern design and cost-effective solutions for both kitchens and bathrooms.

A stylish bathroom to suit your current needs….

With our ageing population, an increasing number of us are less mobile. P & R Interiors can design, supply and fit an up-to-the-minute bath or shower room which also discretely incorporates function and practicality for the less able.

The best news is that many of these features are currently right on trend - from flush-to-floor shower trays and wet rooms, to walk-in showers with fixed glass screens – and built using the latest materials.

Managing Director Paul Kynoch, who has decades of experience in the trade, explains: “We believe that simplicity and ease of use are key. Less mobile people may need a higher-level toilet or a lower access bath. Our basins and toilets can be hung at a custom height to suit every need. We have baths with a door, or showers with screens that open outwards to help prevent falls.

“There are 54 working bays in our showroom that are constantly being updated. So, you can come in, see

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exactly what you are buying and experience firsthand how it works. We supply, and can fit, your entire bathroom.”

P & R Interior’s own dedicated installation team can work on the supervised installation of your bathroom while adhering to local authority guidelines. Safety is paramount, and designs incorporate safety glass, thermostatically safe showers and non-slip floors.

Such is the design quality of the bathrooms, that accessories for the less able such as a wall-mounted fold-down shower seat, work seamlessly with the installation to be barely noticeable. Fold-down grab bars beside the toilet and sturdy shower rails that double up as supports all help make daily bathing the hassle-free pleasure it should be. It’s worlds away from the disabled bathrooms found in hospitals and care homes.

It is also now possible to install low level lighting under the bath that comes on automatically when you enter the bathroom at night. Hidden behind a two-way mirror that gives the illusion of flooring stretching beneath a ‘floating’ bath, the effect is as stunning as it is practical. This is the beauty of these safety and mobility features - they are so unobtrusively stylish, no one will notice you need that bit of extra help as they will simply be admiring your bathroom!

Materials have moved on apace since the era of acrylic baths in ‘avocado’. Now there are high quality

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resins that produce super thin shower trays and beautiful ‘tapless’ baths. Towel rails can be colour matched to cabinets for as little as £100 extra.

If you’re not a fan of wall tiles (although P & R Interiors carries a vast range), you can have waterproof panels instead. And if you have a smaller bathroom - as many of us do - then you will find P & R Interior’s wide but shallow depth basin units fit perfectly and provide spaciousness.

…and a kitchen to meet your future ones

Following customer demand, the fitted kitchen displays are now an integral part of the business meaning that when you visit P & R Interiors, you are only a step away from having your dream kitchen.

Top quality German and English-style kitchens are available to suit every budget and the company offers a free 3D software design package that Paul describes as ‘photographic’.

Specialising in high-tech German designed kitchens from Pronorm alongside more traditional-style English kitchens from JJO Plc, far from being out of most people’s pockets, P & R Interiors can often match trade prices and will always work to your budget.

“It’s really unusual for us not be able to come up with

a solution for you” says Andrew Groom who has 20 years’ experience under his belt.

Germany is the industry trendsetter in kitchen colours and design - and high street retailers eventually follow suit. Pronorm epitomises the elegance of a true ‘handleless’ kitchen. With its expansive, sleek cupboard fronts and modern electrically-operated doors - including ‘glass climbers’ that magically fold up like Venetian blinds - their kitchens are state-of-the-art. In years to come, we will all have convenient pull-down shelves and smart, hygienic ceramic or glass inserts on our cupboard fronts, but for now, Pronorm sets the bar.

As with bathrooms, kitchen materials are better and more durable than ever. You can have traditional granite in a gloss or leathered finish, quartz or Corian worktops, and now there are other finishes to choose from including Hi-Macs, and Staron. One of the latest worktop materials is Dekton. Described as ‘bomb proof’, it doesn’t stain or mark, is 100% hygienic, and heat resistant. It has been described as the ‘most scratch resistant surface on the market’.

Finish off your design with mood enhancing, colourchanging lights and you really will have a kitchen of the future.

P & R Bathrooms provides design and full installation or supply only. There is a five-year guarantee on all AEG Premier Partner exclusive products and a 10year guarantee on all kitchens. Both trade and retail are welcome.

P & R Interiors, 9 Lurke Street, Bedford MK40 3HZ Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00 pm Saturdays 10.00am to 4.00pm Tel: 0845 434 8401 Email: sales@pandrbathrooms.co.uk www.pandrinteriors.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Interiors

By Katherine Sorrell

Making an Entrance Your hallway is an introduction to your home, the first thing you and your visitors see when entering. A well thought-out design, combining good looks with functionality, will help make the best impression.

Hallways can often be an overlooked space but, in fact, they are crucial to the look and feel of a house, acting as a ‘welcome home’, a connection between rooms and – unless you are fortunate enough to have a separate boot room where everything can be kept neatly out of the way – a vital storage area for all sorts of necessary gear, from shoes, boots and umbrellas to coats, hats, gloves and scarves. Sometimes the entrance way is the best place to keep other items, too: maybe bottles of sun lotion for putting on just before you leave the house, a first aid kit, torches, dog leads, tennis rackets or other sports equipment… all kinds of things, in fact, that may not really have a specific place elsewhere. A carefully designed hallway, then, should be as much of a priority as a beautiful living room, kitchen or bedroom, and it is worth giving consideration to all the usual elements of interior design, including walls and floors, lighting and furniture, as well as finishing touches such as soft furnishings, books and art.

On the wall In a narrow hallway (which, let’s face it, most of us are stuck with), using pale colours is a good idea in order to emphasise a sense of space. Specialist light-reflecting paints, now available in a range of

colours, may help, or look for patterned wallpaper with a metallic sheen. Add large mirrors (ideal for checking your reflection just before you leave the house, too) in a style that complements your overall look. For halls that see a lot of wear and tear, choose an extra-tough paint, or add a dado rail and clad the walls below it with tongueand-groove panelling, tiles or hard-wearing vinyl wallpaper. Period-style tiles or embossed wallpapers look particularly good in older properties with period features; their patterns could echo other elements of the house such as cornices or fireplace surrounds.

Durable floors When choosing flooring for this high-traffic area bear in mind that it should be non-slip, durable, dirt-resistant and as easy as possible to maintain.

While a good doormat will help, darker colours are generally a better choice than anything too pale, especially if you have pets and children. Stone, ceramic or quarry tiles, or Victorian encaustic tiles, are all easy to care for, while solid wooden boards or parquet simply require regular polishing or waxing (wood laminates, though cheaper, may not last long in such a well-used space). Linoleum or vinyl can look impressive, especially when laid in patterns. Carpet is more problematic. Choose a colour or pattern that won’t show the dirt, and make sure that the composition is suitable for a hallway: an 80:20 twist classified for heavy domestic use is often the best.

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Lovely lighting A welcoming light in the hallway is ideal and, while it doesn’t have to be bright enough to read by, it should illuminate any steps, stairs and thresholds clearly and help provide an even flow of light through your home. If your hallway has a high ceiling, a beautiful chandelier, or a series of interesting pendants, makes a great statement; if not, a row of downlights set into the ceiling will do the trick. Wall lights look great, too, but unless very flush-fitting they are best avoided in a narrow hall where they will simply act as obstacles.

Sensible storage For hallway furniture, built-in storage makes the most of every inch of space. Shallow, floor-toceiling cupboards with doors painted the same colour as the walls, or mirrored to maximise light, will hold masses yet be barely noticeable. On the other hand, you could make a statement with a choice of free-standing cupboards, sideboards, tables, benches, hooks or racks, chosen to suit your floor layout and your style. Urban cyclists might want to install a high-up hook for their bikes, while spacious country hallways suit umbrella stands, boot racks and dog beds. Whatever your style, somewhere to keep post and keys is always a good idea: perhaps a bowl and rack on a console table,

radiator cover or shelf, or a small, wall-mounted cupboard and set of hooks.

Finishing touches Not all halls have windows, but those that do will benefit from shutters, blinds or curtains that complement the rest of the space. When selecting fabric, co-ordinate with cushions or upholstery on seating. A long, thin floor runner works beautifully on hard flooring, adding softness, pattern and texture. If you have lots of books, or delicate items you wish to show off, you could fit shelving above doorways or run a slim shelf along the length of the hall above head height. And, finally, add a personal touch with paintings, photographs or other artworks, arranging them so as to create a display that adds an extra touch of interest and flair to your practical, versatile space.

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WWW.JORDANSMILL.COM Jordans Mill, Holme Mills, Langford Road Broom, Nr Biggleswade SG18 9JY Call: 01767 603940

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Food and Drink

Favours of the Levant

The Levant, located in the eastern Mediterranean, has a very long and interesting history. The traditional, flavoursome cuisine of the Levant is enjoyed a lot and widely available in a number of countries in that area, including Israel, Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey and Cyprus, for example.

The Ceru restaurant opened during December 2016, in South Kensington, London and its popularity grew from the outset. The much-anticipated second Ceru restaurant opened in February 2018, within easy walking distance of Oxford Street and Regent Street, in London. Utilising authentic ingredients and cooking methods and cleverly blending spices, Patricia and Barry Hilton, plus their brigade of talented chefs and kitchen personnel have a lot of knowledge and experience of Levantine cuisine. All dishes are freshly prepared and Ceru is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, every day.

The All-Day Menu is available daily, from 12 noon. An array of dips and salads has something for everyone, to start. Pancar (Roasted beetroot, yoghurt, garlic, crushed pistachio) and The Sultan (Ottoman-inspired salad of dried fruits, wholegrain rice, toasted almonds and olives) are popular selections, for many. Mains seafood dishes include Sea Bream, Cod and Prawns. Meat and poultry dishes have perfectly cooked slow-roasted Lamb Shoulder and Beef, plus Chicken variations and gain regular ‘devotees’. Often-selected side orders have Orez Ceru (Arabic scented fried rice, crispy onions, sultanas, parsley) and Spiced Polenta & Feta Fries, with coriander and chilli. If time is pressing, then ‘Express’ (served weekdays 12 noon – 3pm) is no problem. Desserts offer tempting Dark Chocolate Mousse and Flavours of Baklava – good choices – amongst a selection.

The wines/drinks list has something for all and includes superb, high-quality wines, champagnes and craft-brewed beers. All dietary requirements can be catered for, plus parties, celebrations and occasions arranged and accommodated. The Ceru restaurants offer diners the opportunity to ‘explore’ and enjoy very impressive cuisine, with rich, vibrant flavours of the Levant. Booking is advisable, particularly at popular times.

Ceru Soho 11 D’Arblay Street, London W1F 8DT Tel: 44(0)20 3195 3002 Email: soho@cerurestaurants.com www.cerurestaurants.com Ceru South Kensington 7-9 Bute Street, London SW7 3EY Tel: 44(0)20 3195 3001 Email: southken@cerurestaurants.com

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

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Picture Framing By

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Fashion

Choose the Perfect Winter Coat A winter coat is one of life’s bigger clothing investments, so it makes sense to be fully informed and have a plan before hitting the shops (or the internet!).

The first thing to look at is your lifestyle. Imagine someone who travels by car and parks outside their place of work every day, but who likes to go for country walks with their dog at the weekend.

Then imagine someone who waits for a bus or a train every day and has a half mile walk at either end of their commute. They will have different demand from their winter coats.

In the UK winters vary from mild to extreme but one thing is certain…it will rain! A waterproof outer shell is a must-have for any winter coat. Look for ‘water resistant’ on the label. Don’t rule-out a proper wool coat; a somewhat unsung property of wool is its water-resistance. Beware though: many coats which purport to be ‘wool’ are a wool blend with only about 20% wool fibres. These will be less resistant to a downpour; more likely to make you sweat and smell a bit fusty after a while.

Look at how well insulated the coat is. Proper wool coats are naturally warm and feel luxurious.

Among other types of coat insulation is a choice of down or synthetic fibres. Down is a classic, natural insulator. It is incredibly lightweight though less good for very wet weather. If you plan to walk a

lot in all weathers it may not be the right choice.

Synthetic insulation holds up better against moisture but won’t retain its insulating properties for as long as down.

Check all zips and cuffs are made from high quality material that will last. Double zips or a zip and Velcro-flap combination create added warmth.

Cuffs should be cosy around the wrists so that no drafts can get in.

Once you’ve found a coat you like, examine it to make sure it really is high quality. Make sure all the seams are secure and there are no holes where insulation is escaping.

There are many super-stylish winter coats around, but never sacrifice comfort and warmth for style as you will regret it on the coldest wettest days. For example, check that you can wear layers, or a thick jumper under the coat. I’ve found many ‘fashion’ coats have arms which are too skinny to allow for a jumper and thus restrict your movement and / or blood-flow!

Finally think creatively. In our first hypothetical example the person might prefer a light warm wool jacket for commuting by car to work, but a thick full-length down-insulated coat for country walks at the weekend. OR, they might prefer to buy a jacket with a lining that can be removed and worn separately as a jacket in its own right for car journeys, then with the waterproof outer layer at weekends. If your budget is tight try searching through charity shops or factory shops. There are some amazing bargains to be found from heavy pure wool overcoats to branded hiking wear.

Stay warm this winter.

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By Tracey Anderson 31

Local News

Making a Difference It is within living memory that Polio was the most worrying of all childhood diseases because it caused muscle weakness resulting in permanent disability or death. Many of us can still remember children in leg callipers and the ‘Iron Lung’ which was the machine that enabled a paralysed child to breathe.

Rotary International decided to do something about polio, to eradicate it in the same way that Smallpox had been eradicated from the whole world. Polio vaccine is cheap to produce and easy to administer as a drop by mouth, so in 1979 the first project to vaccinate children began. In 1985 the Rotary Polio Plus programme was launched and in 1988 the World Health Organisation, the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, and UNICEF joined in. At that time Polio was present in 125 countries and it affected 1000 children every day. By 2017 the incidence of Polio had plummeted by 99.99 % to just 22 cases in that year from only 3 remaining countries: Afghanistan, Pakistan and Nigeria, and up to the end of August 2018 there have only been 15 reported cases in the world.

It is very important not to be complacent now that the end is in sight. It would be so easy for Polio to take hold again with global travel and military personnel moving backwards and forwards from Afghanistan. World Polio day is 24th October every year. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have joined the campaign and now donate £2 for every £1 raised by Rotary, and even when there are no more reported cases the vaccination programme must continue for another 3 years, just to be sure. Purple for Polio was made a slogan because every child vaccinated has their little finger dipped in purple dye as a way of making sure that no child has been missed.

Rotary clubs would welcome your involvement as we need help in any way to finish what was started all those years ago. For more information telephone Pamela on 07817 014865

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BICKERDIKES

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Travel

By Solange Hando

Karnak, Egypt On the banks of the Nile, some 800 km south of the delta, Karnak is praised by historians as one of the world’s largest religious complexes, second only to Angkor Wat. It is also the country’s most visited monument, after the Giza pyramids, first built in the Middle Kingdom then greatly extended during the New Kingdom when the monumental city of Thebes (now Luxor) reached its golden age as capital of the united ancient Egypt. Bristling with monuments, this ‘most select of places’ is a vast open air site spread across three precincts divided by rough walls.

Best preserved is the central zone covering around 30 hectares and dedicated to the god Amun, already known in the Old Kingdom but who became patron deity of Thebes from the 11th dynasty onwards. Such an extensive temple, they say, could contain St Peter’s of Rome or cover half of Manhattan. To the south is the sanctuary of Amun’s wife and to the north that of Munt, the god of war. At least 30 pharaohs added new structures to Karnak over time, revealing to modern historians a vast panorama of Egyptian history, architecture and art.

Approaching visitors are greeted by ram-headed sphinxes which once stretched all the way to the Luxor temple. They send shivers down your spine but as you wander among massive walls, columns, obelisks, stunning inscriptions and friezes, and monumental statues, it’s all “wow, look at that”, especially when the warm sandstone

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glows coppery gold under a deep blue sky. Not to be missed is the obelisk, 30 metres high and weighing 200 tons, built by the female pharaoh Hatshepsut. According to legend, she paid for it with “bushels of gold as if they were sacks of grain”.

Most impressive, however, is the hypostyle hall, just over 100 metres long, the largest of its kind in the world, and once supported by 134 columns with stylish open-papyrus tops. It’s estimated that during the 19th dynasty, over 81,000 people were employed in the temple, including workers, peasants, guardians and priests, supported by booty from victorious battles and wealth from ever-growing estates. Then there is the Great Festival Hall, also known as the ‘Temple of Millions of Years’, where traces of 6th century paint seem to indicate it was used by Christian monks.

But Karnak still hides many secrets, though some once-forgotten treasures are now displayed in the open-air museum. Among them are bas-reliefs of the White Chapel of Senusert I from the Middle Kingdom.

Visit over, it is good to step back and relax by the Sacred Lake where priests would purify themselves every day and special boats would sail after the harvest to bring new energy to the cosmos. This ritual lasted for 27 days, an exciting time when 11,000 loaves and 385 jars of beer were handed out to the people. Close your eyes, stretch out your arm and you are sure to feel the past.

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Health & Beauty

By Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

Time for some TLC Central heating and cold weather can take their toll on your skin, so make the most of the darker evenings by indulging in a well-deserved pampering session.

Relaxing in a warm bath with music, candles and a glass of wine is one of my favourite winter experiences. If you’re the same, check out Tisserand Aromatherapy’s Ascot Bath Oils Collection (£35). As you’d expect from Tisserand, each of the five bath oils is fragranced with pure essential oils, so they smell lovely but aren’t overpowering. Choose between Misty Mellow, Sweet Solace, Hope & Cheer, Blissful Joy and Happy Elation, depending on which mood you want to create. My personal favourite is Hope & Cheer with its uplifting blend of ginger, lemongrass and rosemary. The Ascot range launched earlier this year and also includes a body wash, hand lotion and more.

See www.tisserand.com/ascot-collection.

Many of us suffer from dry skin patches, chapped lips and sore hands in the winter.

A multi-purpose balm can work wonders. Weleda’s Skin Food (£12.50) is my usual go-to balm, but I’ve been reaching for ESPA’s Skin Rescue Balm (£29) lately. It’s made from beeswax and a long list of plant and seed oils, including castor, orange peel and blackcurrant. The balm

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is incredibly moisturising and a little goes a long way, see www.espaskincare.com.

I generally prefer a wash-off cleanser in the summer and a wipe-off one in colder months. I’ve switched to Odylique’s Creamy Coconut Cleanser (£18) for winter. The cleanser has won multiple awards and for good reason. The blend of extra-virgin olive oil and coconut oil do a great job of removing makeup (even waterproof mascara), and they also nourish the skin as they cleanse. Rose extracts help to soothe inflammation, while lemon detoxifies. The cleanser is suitable for all skin types, even those prone to eczema, rosacea or other skin complaints.

It’s very light so won’t clog pores, but it’s still rich enough to leave skin feeling pampered, softer and more hydrated. Massage the cleanser in and then remove it with a damp muslin cloth for a daily cleanse and exfoliation session in one.

See www.odylique.co.uk.

Fancy a full spa experience? If a weekend away is out of the question, why not look into a day spa experience with a friend? Spas often offer 2 for 1 deals that work out at around £20 a person. You’ll usually get use of the pool and other facilities, as well as a dressing gown and slippers. Or why not splash out on a package that includes a treatment and lunch? Try searching for offers on www. spaseekers.com as you’ll often get a better deal than going direct to the spa itself. Buying a gift for someone who deserves a bit of pampering? Spa Seekers offers vouchers, or try www.buyagift. co.uk for gift experiences. The Smartbox Indulgent Pamper Treat costs £39.99 and gives the recipient the choice of a wide range of treatments at venues across the UK. So whether they fancy a spa day in Berkshire or a massage in Manchester, they’ll have you to thank for the experience.

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Flo’s Salon

Come and join us for our

Grand Opening

10am till 3pm Saturday 10th November 2018

Pop in and join the fun, find out what we offer, enjoy a glass of bubbly and some nibbles and try your luck in our raffle to win a whole host of prizes, including Flo’s Salon vouchers.

Eyelash Extensions • Gel Nails Hairdresser • Barber Appointments being taken from 13th November 2018 Tel: 01767 261253 20 Blackbird Street, Potton, Near Sandy SG19 2LT After 40 years, Pat (Bonnie and Clyde) is retiring and would like to thank all clients for their custom over the years. Flo’s Salon wish Pat a long and happy retirement and look forward to welcoming customers, old and new.

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Health

Alison Runham ww.alison.runham.co.uk

Great Health, Wellbeing and Fitness Gifts

If you’re stuck for gift ideas for your nearest and dearest, here are some suggestions for presents that could bring them a happier, healthier new year.

Mindfulness Gifts Mindfulness has gone mainstream and NHS doctors are now recommending it as a useful technique to help in the management of mental health issues and long-term pain.

• The Introduction to Mindfulness Gift Box breaks down mindfulness techniques to create simple task cards and a week-long challenge that helps users integrate mindfulness into their day simply but effectively. It includes four token gifts to help them celebrate their successes.

Available from Amazon, priced at £4.95.

• Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Finding Peace in a Frantic World by Mark Williams and Danny Penman is on the NHS ‘Books on Prescription’ list. It’s based on MindfulnessBased Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), which can deliver great benefits when practised for just

a few minutes a day. It’s a powerful path to wellbeing and better mental health, not just for those struggling with mental health issues but for anyone wanting to improve their wellbeing amid the demands of hectic modern life.

Available as a book, eBook, audio CD and CDROM from various retailers including Amazon and WHSmith.

Weight Loss Gifts Warning: Only to be given to someone who has stated they need, want and plan to lose weight!

• Slimming World offer gift vouchers. A 6-week gift card for a new member is £34.75 while a 12-week card is £59.50. Prices are lower if your recipient is an existing member or over 60 years old.

Available on www.slimmingworld.co.uk/ downloads/gift_vouchers.pdf.

• Weight Watchers don’t offer gift cards or subscriptions, but you can purchase a gift subscription for their magazine, starting from £8.25 for three issues. They also sell accessories,

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various Weight Watchers cookbooks and their handy SmartPoints Kitchen Scales, priced at £39.95, which automatically calculate the SmartPoints in food.

Available from www.weightwatchersshop. co.uk.

• LighterLife don’t offer gift vouchers either, but you can buy various food packs for a friend interested in trying the plan, starting from around £15. A larger starter pack costs £75.

Available from www.lighterlife.com/shop/ foodpacks/bundles.html.

Wellbeing Gifts • Spa Days Red Letter Days have spa days starting at around £39 for one person and £50 for two.

While these lower-budget options include full use of spa facilities, they only include 25 minutes of treatment. Or what about a floatation tank experience for one for just £25?

If you want to splash the cash, though, there are more expensive options and you could even treat a special couple to a spa break. The cheapest at the time of writing is a two-night break in a luxury Mongolian yurt in Suffolk, including a light lunch and one-day passes to the nearby Atlantic Spa, for £390.

Available from www.redletterdays.co.uk, who promise to refund 150% of the difference if you see the identical experience cheaper within 14 days of purchase.

• The Positive Planner This luxury, hardback 12-week planner and journal describes itself as “the mindful gratitude journal that inspires you daily and encourages mental wellbeing.” It features original artwork, inspirational quotes, art therapy, mindfulness activities and tools and a mood tracker; by noting what they do each day and how they feel, your recipient can connect cause and effect and make positive changes. There are also meal planners, shopping lists and monthly diary spreads to organise daily life and reduce mental clutter.

Available from www.thepositiveplanner.co.uk and www.notonthehighstreet.com at £23 plus p&p.

Fitness Gifts • Gaiam Beginners’ Pilates Kit This kit includes a body-sculpting ball, resistance band and an instructional workout DVD – everything a first-timer or improver needs.

Available from John Lewis, Amazon and other stores, priced at around £26.49.

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• Weight Training Equipment We don’t have to harbour a desperate desire to be a bodybuilder to use weights as part of our fitness regime. Fitness and health experts recommend weight training for those who are physically able, as it’s scientifically proven that muscle burns more calories, even when you’re at rest, than body fat – and even active people can begin to lose muscle tone as they age.

For beginners, some light dumbbells and/or wrist and ankle weights are a good gift, while kettlebells are a good choice for improvers. For more serious weight lifters, weight sets with a bar included (‘barbell sets’), which allow the user to add or remove weights to suit them, might be ideal.

Dumbbells, kettlebells, wrist and ankle weights and barbell sets are available from many major retailers such as Argos, Amazon and John Lewis, although for more sophisticated or weighty equipment, consider a fitness specialist store or website.

Pairs of low weight vinyl dumbbells, 2 kg kettlebells and pairs of wrist and ankle weights all start from around £5. Dumbbell ‘tree sets’, which usually consist of tree-shaped stand and three or more pairs of dumbbells, start at around £19.99. Expect to pay at least £28 for a barbell set but do check reviews, as some poorer quality sets have issues with their fixtures, meaning weights may slip off.

Who knows? Your gift-buying might inspire you to make a purchase for a happier, healthier new year too.

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Vicki Eagles MCFHP, MAFHP Foot Health Professional

Professional Foot Care

in your own home

Foot Health Check and Advice Nail Trimming Reduction of Thickened or ‘Bulky’ Nails Removal of Corns and Calluses Treatment of Fungal Infection All treatments include a complimentary foot massage

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For advice or to arrange an appointment please call Vicki on

07812 399659

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41

Local News

Let’s Fight Fatigue, Pain… and Brain Fog!

Letchworth-based charity The Herts MS Therapy Centre helps people to fight chronic pain and the exhausting tiredness that often accompanies it.

We understand how debilitating pain and fatigue can be. We know all about brain fog too.

We aim to help as many people as we can, welcoming people with any long term or neurological condition. Increasingly, we help people who have Fibromyalgia, CFS or ME. We work closely with our local FMA UK (Fibromyalgia Association) coordinator.

Do you, or someone you know, have Fibromyalgia?

We offer two therapies that help many people with Fibromyalgia: Oxygen Therapy – involves breathing in pure oxygen under gentle pressure. It helps many people via pain reduction, energy boosts and accelerated healing.

Steve N has Fibromyalgia. He says: “Hyperbaric oxygen has made a significant difference, helping with my chronic tiredness and alleviating some of the joint and muscle pain, generally making life a whole lot more pleasant.”

Pain Reduction Therapy - is an effective, drug free treatment for less pain, more energy and faster healing. Research shows beneficial results in around 80% of people with chronic pain. Brian H says: “I did the six week Pain Reduction Programme. It worked well for me. I have had pain free mobility for the first time in nine months.”

Give it a go! Try Oxygen Therapy or Pain Reduction Therapy for free. Call Claire on 01462 684 214 – or visit www.hertsmstherapy.org.uk for more details. Let’s fight fatigue and pain!

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Create the perfect smile

To find out more about the Cosmetic Dentistry options we offer contact us today.

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EMERGENCY DENTURE REPAIRS 1 HOUR SERVICE 01767 651439 07973 141862

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09/09/2016 16:42

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Relationships

By Sarah Davey

The Frenemy!

Does one of your friends always seem to undermine you? Do you feel vaguely uncomfortable in their presence and as though something is ‘off’? You might have a frenemy!

Urban Dictionary describes a frenemy as an enemy disguised as a friend. They seem supportive, but their ulterior motive is to compete with or even humiliate you.

Frenemies are clever and manipulative – but once you’re on to them, they’re fairly easy to spot.

Frenemies are often the type who crave intimacy and want to be your ‘bestie’ five minutes after you meet.

Real friends, on the other hand, tend to take their time getting to know you – and they don’t demand details or every intimate detail of your life.

With a frenemy it’s all too much, too soon. Within hours of meeting you a frenemy will probably go into great detail about their life and expect you to reciprocate The problem is, this closer-than-close relationship turns sour if you don’t play along or won’t return the favour. A Frenemy may play the sympathy card: ‘I do so much for you but you’re too selfish to spend the weekend with me / lend me £100 etc’ or they may turn on you suddenly, ‘Fine, don’t bother to call me EVER again.’ Real friends understand when you’re busy and don’t always expect you to drop everything for them.

A frenemy’s most disturbing trait though is the ability to smile while making passive-aggressive insults and criticisms. If you call out her behaviour she pretends it’s a joke, leaving you feeling stupid

and wrong-footed. Real friends may tease you but respect you and know when to stop.

A frenemy zooms in on your insecurities. Instead of being sympathetic and supportive, they’ll slyly encourage you to feel worse. A real friend says, “I’m sorry you’re hurting. Here’s a hug and let’s go for coffee and cake.”

Go with your gut. That nagging feeling which tells you something is wrong with the friendship?

Listen to it. Trust your instincts and observe your “friend” carefully to see whether the behaviour is a one-off slip or part of a pattern of behaviour.

Of course, there’s the sticky issue of how to deal with a frenemy. The best way is to cut communication – reply to fewer texts and unfollow her on social media. If you are lucky the ‘friendship’ will taper off naturally. Unfortunately, some frenemies react to this by turning nasty, spreading rumours or trying to turn mutual friends against you. Don’t rise to the bait. It will be difficult but be scrupulous in your own behaviour; say nothing bad about her; remain calm and collected, but if she bullies or harasses you, keep screenshots or copies of everything.

If she confronts you, remain diplomatic. Say something like ‘We don’t seem to get on as well now, so I think taking a break is a positive step for both of us.’

Lastly, be a good friend to your other friends – show them that you’re a kind and decent human being. If others only ever see you being nice, they are unlikely to believe rumours, and if they do, you’re better off without them!

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House of Colour

Tips on how to work your denim with style Denim suits everyone, it is universal, genderless, ageless and adaptable, but we definitely don’t all suit the same colours, lengths, cut or styles. Add to that that sizes and styles differ hugely from brand to brand, so it is hard to stick to any hard and fast rules. Here are my top tips on how to choose the best denim to suit you.

1. Firstly, don’t expect finding the perfect jeans to be easy. Cropped, ankle grazers, wideleg, low-risers, mid-risers, high-waisted, slim, skinny, super-skinny, straight, boot-cut, relaxed, boyfriend, girlfriend jeans – it is literally a minefield out there. Be prepared to try lots of different jeans on.

2. Don’t just choose whatever seems to be in current vogue, always consider your body shape and flaunt your best assets. Straight, skinny or slim silhouettes will look better on straighter body shapes, whereas, straight, bootcut or wide leg jeans look better on curvy body shapes.

Badly fitted jeans will ruin your entire look.

3. It is essential that you know which colour denim suits you. Spring and Autumns should stick to warmer colours e.g. Spring a brighter blue, and Autumns a warm navy. Summers can wear cooler denim blue such as a French navy or an airforce blue and Winters should opt for a deep cool navy.

Go beyond blue and try coloured jeans from your palette. Be careful with white jeans; they will only look great if they are crisp, clean and well-fitting and for the right body shape and season.

4. You may have a pair of jeans in the right colour and style, but they just never seem quite right.

Sound familiar? The stitching could be the missing link. Spring and Autumns suit warm stitching (yellow) and Winter and Summers suit cool coloured stitching (white or grey). If your jeans have faded into a colour you don’t like you can dye them but bear in mind the stitching will also be dyed and this may change their look.

5. Speaking of washing denim. Always turn denim inside out when popping it in the washing machine to help preserve the colour for as long as possible.

6. It is all in the detail. Ripped or deconstructed denim looks better on naturals whilst classic finishes suit those who like well-cut timeless styles. Dramatic personalities could try shiny or coated textures and gamines can have great fun with coloured jeans from their palette. Ingenues

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are those who love detail like pretty embellishments, and romantics will like fitted jeans to show off their curves.

Even the pockets, stretch and fastening make a huge difference.

Elastic waist, zipper or buttons all alter the overall look of the jeans. Generally smaller pockets make your bum look rounder and bigger pockets are more slimming.

Choose high, mid or low waists carefully. Get it wrong and you could create a small muffin top but get it right and you could look in perfect proportion.

Make sure you know your inside leg length when choosing a new pair of jeans. There is nothing worse than wearing jeans that are too short or too long for you. Think about what shoes you normally wear with your jeans and try them on together. I can’t stress it enough. The jeans and shoe or boot combination is key. Turn-up jeans add a different dimension to this. If skinny jeans are your thing - pair with knee high boots for style points.

Think beyond the strides! Denim looks fantastic as a shirt, jacket, skirt, shorts, dress or jumpsuit, as long as the look is really YOU. Do you suit hard or soft denim? If soft denim is your thing, stand out from the crowd by sewing on some embellishments to make it more you.

This might also be a great thing for younger children to enjoy doing. Buy some jewels and let them get creative with clothes glue. Harder denim is less versatile but more structured.

If you are fashion forward thinking you might want to try head to toe, double-denim. Keep to the denim shades that suit you and blend denim together rather than two sharply contrasting colours or styles.

By Jennie Billings Style and Colour Consultant at House of Colour www.houseofcolour.co.uk/jenniebillings jennie.billings@houseofcolour.co.uk

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47

Time of Year

By Tom Hancock

Save with a Service

Why an annual boiler service is important Sometimes we might wonder if it’s worth arranging a boiler service, especially if everything seems to be working fine. It’s one expense we can do without when Christmas is looming. Here are five reasons to book your service now.

IT SAVES LIVES - A faulty boiler is dangerous.

According to government statistics, each year in the UK, 50 adults and children die from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning; 200 are hospitalised and around 4,000 people end up in A&E with symptoms due to leaking boilers. A Gas Safe qualified boiler engineer will check for and fix any leaks or weak points during a service.

IT SAVES MONEY ON FUEL BILLS - A qualified boiler engineer will check that your boiler is running as efficiently as possible and isn’t wasting energy.

IT SAVES THE ENVIRONMENT - If your boiler isn’t wasting energy your carbon footprint is reduced.

IT SAVES ON REPAIR BILLS - That annual service to make sure your boiler is working correctly will save money on future repairs by letting the boiler engineer fix minor issues which might have caused significant problems later.

IT SAVES ON INSURANCE HASSLES - Most boiler warranties and some home and business insurance policies require that you ensure your boiler is safe to use. An annual boiler service meets most insurance policy requirements.

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20/04/2018 15:34

Local & Reliable

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Local News

Restoration Project Regenerates Areas of Heathland across Greensand Country A project funded by the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership is working with the RSPB, The Greensand Trust and The Wildlife Trust to create better habitats and improve the chances of colonisation on heathlands across the landscape.

Greensand Country, an area of distinct, beautiful and loved countryside stretching from Leighton Buzzard to Gamlingay, has already seen some exciting results from the landscape partnership’s Living Heathlands project.

Last month, The RSPB announced that, thanks to the restoration of heathland on the reserve, nightjars are breeding at The Lodge in Sandy for the first time in 45 years. In partnership with the Wildlife Trust, the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership is restoring the largest surviving area of heathland in Bedfordshire, at Coopers Hill, by removing scrub, bracken and trees so that underlying heather can thrive. Meanwhile at Rushmere Country Park, The Greensand Trust is introducing grazing cattle to help manage the heath, as well as creating guided walks to help people explore the new heathland.

In addition to the three sites identified for regeneration at the beginning of the project, the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership, has supported The Greensand Trust in acquiring an additional 17acre site, Shire Oak Heath, adjacent to Rushmere Country Park, which has almost reached its £50,000 fundraising target, in order for it to begin restoration work.

Claire Poulton, Programme Manager at the Greensand Country Landscape Partnership explains: “We are thrilled with the huge successes that the Living Heathlands project has seen so far. The objective of this project is to create better habitats for wildlife, which provide sustainable homes for a number of species and improve the chances of retention across Greensand Country.

“This outcome is important nationally as well as on a local level, as our landscape creates a stepping stone between habitats in the south and north of Great Britain.

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“As well as continuing to work with partner organisations, we are keen to engage farmers and landowners to create islands and corridors between habitats, in order to establish strong ecological networks that will ensure the long term growth and success of these sites.”

The Greensand Country Landscape Partnership has grants of between £500 to £15,000 to help communities and landowners improve the natural and community heritage of the Greensand Country. We can cover up to 70% of a project’s total cost.

Living Heaths & Working Woodlands Projects could include: • Small woodland/hedgerow planting • Creating wildflower meadows • Creating nature corridors • Restoring heathland or acid grassland • Managing woodlands • Introducing conservation grazing For further information and to apply for a grant email: team@greensandcountry.com with a brief description (no more than 200 words) of your project and location.

To find out more about Greensand Country visit greensandcountry.com, and for regular updates follow @greensandsocial on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The Greensand Country Landscape Partnership is led by the Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity and the Greensand Trust and funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. It is made possible by National Lottery players. Without them we couldn’t fund the project.

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SAD Times

Time of Year

As many as one in six people suffer with a low mood in Winter and a small number of these will suffer with the more serious Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) SAD sufferers are less able to control their serotonin levels in the absence of sunlight and if serotonin levels drop too low, so will your mood.

Here are five ways to raise your serotonin levels even in the coldest, darkest months.

Lighten up - As lack of sunlight is the problem, more light could be a solution. Light boxes are available that provide levels of brightness which can elevate your brain’s serotonin levels.

Exercise - There’s evidence that aerobic exercise not only boosts your brain’s levels of serotonin but also keeps those levels elevated for hours after your workout.

Laugh - A study in Norway found that laughing with friends, watching a funny movie or doing something that briefly improves your mood may stoke your brain’s levels of serotonin.

Step outside - Research shows that walking in nature — especially with other people — is an effective way to combat depression. Spending at least 30 minutes a day outdoors even during the cold winter months may offset the seasonal drops in serotonin.

Physical contact - Massage has been proven to increase your brain and body’s levels of serotonin. The soothing experience significantly reduces the blues.

By Louise Addison

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53

Finance

By Ann Haldon

Can you still get a mortgage if you are an older borrower?

Whether you are moving house or remortgaging an existing property, you may find it difficult to secure a mortgage as you get older. Some mortgage lenders are reluctant to take pension income into account, which means you could be refused if you have already retired, or want a mortgage term that continues past your retirement date.

Is there an age limit for getting a mortgage?

Officially there is no upper age limit for a mortgage, but providers use their own in-house criteria when assessing a mortgage application.

They may apply an age limit for older people taking out new mortgages, and another for when the mortgage must be paid off.

These limits are typically 65-70 years of age, and 70-85 years old respectively. This means that if you are aged 60, for example, and looking for a mortgage term of 25 years, your options may be limited.

Is there anything you can do to increase your chances of securing a mortgage?

• Reduce your outgoings By reducing your spending, and paying down debt over six months or so prior to your mortgage application, you stand a better chance of success and may be able to access a wider choice of products that offer better terms.

• Use a mortgage broker Obtaining the services of a mortgage broker who understands this particular market is a good idea. If too many mortgage applications are rejected, it can adversely affect your credit status, which then has a knock-on effect to any future applications you make.

Mortgage affordability checks New regulations introduced following the 2008 recession, known as the Mortgage Market Review rules, mean that lenders must make more stringent affordability checks prior to lending.

As a result, all regular payments leaving your bank account will affect the affordability calculation, and reduce the amount you are able to borrow.

Acknowledging longer life expectancies There has been a trend in recent years for longer life expectancies to be acknowledged, along with the fact that, for a variety of reasons, people need

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to borrow money later in life.

The higher cost of housing, helping children onto the property ladder, or late entry into the housing market, can all result in the need for a mortgage after you have reached 50 years of age.

Mortgages for older people It is often smaller building societies that offer flexibility with regard to age, with high street banks remaining steadfast in their cautionary approach to mortgages in retirement.

• The Family Building Society offers mortgage terms of up to 25 years for a 70 year old, and up to a five-year term for someone aged 90 years old.¹ • Aldermore Bank is a specialist mortgage lender that allows repayments to continue up to the age of 99.² According to the Building Societies Association (BSA), some building societies operate with no upper age limit at all for mortgages. These include, but are not limited to, Cumberland, Bath, Chorley, Cambridge, Ipswich, and Buckinghamshire Building Societies.³ ¹ familybuildingsociety.co.uk/Mortgages/Later_Life_ Lending.aspx ² www.aldermore.co.uk/mortgages/later-lifelending-mortgages ³ www.bsa.org.uk/information/consumer-factsheets/ mortgages/building-societies-lending-age-limits

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Discover the true value of your home.

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

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

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Garden

The Great Cover-Up

By Pippa Greenwood www.pippagreenwood.com

Any garden will look more interesting with some variation in the height of the plants. By all means include some tall plants but don’t forget how attractive and useful ground-cover planting can be, covering the soil with good-looking foliage plus, in some cases, flowers or berries.

Some ground-cover plants are available as ‘bare root’ plants, lifted from a field and ready for putting in to the ground whilst they are dormant.

Now is a great time to buy them, ready to plant during suitable weather over the coming months.

Ground-cover plants are also often available in potted form, especially the smaller, less woody plants. These can be planted now too, or – as their roots are well-encased in compost – at any time of the year, though for best results avoid extremely cold and wet weather or the very hottest and driest period in summer.

A ground-cover bed is an excellent way to reduce your gardening workload – once planted, it needs little maintenance and almost looks after itself.

It will need watering during the first year or two, especially in dry weather, so that the roots can establish.

One of the best uses for ground cover is on a steep slope, where access is difficult or even dangerous.

Once installed, a ground cover-clad slope will be simpler to look after than a grassy one.

Sloping gardens or windswept spots can suffer soil-slippage or erosion if left unplanted. The roots of your ground-cover planting will help secure the soil and the stems and foliage will help protect the soil surface.

Ground cover will also prevent weeds from thriving, by starving them of light and providing competition in open spaces.

Twelve Great Ground Cover Plants

Taxus baccata ‘Repens Aurea’ , Hypericum calycinum moserianum, Hedera, Lonicera pileata, Pernettya mucronata, Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Prostratus’, Euonymus fortuneii, Ceanothus prostrates thyrsiflorus var.repens, Cotoneaster horizontalis, Cotoneaster ‘Gnom’, Vinca For best effect choose plants which are evergreen and so hold their leaves throughout the year.

A ground-cover plant such as Cotoneaster horizontalis lets you enjoy attractive berries as well as the neat foliage. Ground-cover planting like this will often offer a useful source of shelter to local wildlife and food for berry eaters too.

Sometimes it can be difficult to spot suitable ground-cover plants unless the nursery or garden centre has a designated area for them, so, when searching out plants always carefully read the information provided. Ideally you want those where the stated height is smaller than the stated spread – it is outwards not upwards you are after! Look for clues in the plants’ Latin names too – those with words suggesting spread out or horizontal are often useful e.g. prostrata (prostrate), horizontalis (horizontal), repens (creeping).

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com and you’ll find some great gardening items and perfect Christmas gifts for gardeners: a ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ gift card (great vegetable plants and weekly advice from Pippa), stylish cloches, the fantastic SpeedHoe, raised bed kits, gardening tools, Grower Frames, signed books and more! Or why not book Pippa for a gardening talk at your gardening club?

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59

Gardening & Wildlife

Rural Ramblings The Green Green Grass

Now that the hot summer weather seems to have finally retreated, the damage to the lawns can finally be revealed. It looks like the shorter root system of the grass has been affected most and as usual, the weeds less so. Deeper rooted perennial broadleaved weeds and grasses are now flourishing and the annual ones are germinating madly now that the soil is becoming damp due to the rains. This leaves our lawns looking in a right old state with tufts of coarse grasses appearing amid the bare patches of dead grass. These are rapidly filling with emerald –green weeds creating a far from ideal tapestry of non uniformity!

Still, no good moaning, what can be done? The first thing is not to panic as time is a great healer. Where the dead patches remain and are very large, it is advisable to re-seed by lightly scarifying the affected area with a metal–tined rake to produce a shallow tilth. Sow the seed fairly thickly and cover lightly with a mixture of light soil and peat. Water in well and the seed should be germinating within a week.

Job number two - the small germinating annual weeds which are starting to appear can usually be easily eliminated by mowing.

Job three - the more vigorous perennials can be treated with a selective lawn weed-killer which will kill them but not any grasses (fortunately!)

Now is an ideal time to start a new lawn and if you prefer to pay a lot less, go for seed rather than turf.

There is a greater availability of the finer grass seed mixtures if you are looking for quality. The main disadvantage of seed compared to turf is that establishment is slower but the waiting to see the greening of the bare earth can be quite exciting.

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The lawn is going to be there for a long time therefore it is important not to rush, especially with the preparation during cultivation. It is a good idea to start work as soon as possible in order to encourage weed seeds to germinate and then cultivate lightly again to get rid of them, before any seed is sown.

The young growth should be allowed to establish before the first cut, which can be a little higher than normal probably after a few weeks. Late September is an ideal time as the soil temperature is still high and the rainfall is increasing.

The turf will grow slowly during the winter and be well established by the spring.

By Geoff Wharton

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61

Local News

RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch is 40! (26-28 January 2019) Celebrating 40 Years of Counting Garden Birds in Bedfordshire • The RSPB is celebrating 40 years of its’ famous Big Garden Birdwatch.

• Over 8 million hours have been spent watching garden birds since the Birdwatch began in 1979 with more than 130 million birds counted in the UK. • Taking part in the world’s largest garden wildlife survey takes just one hour and provides the RSPB with an annual snapshot into how our wildlife is faring.

• To mark the event, the RSPB is asking participants ‘How will you #BigGardenBirdWatch?’ and share their stories of how they take part.

The RSPB is eagerly anticipating who will be top of the pecking order for a very special anniversary of its’ world famous Big Garden Birdwatch in January.

Just one hour every year, for the last 40 years, has made the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch the largest garden wildlife citizen science project. During that time, hundreds of thousands of people have volunteered their time providing the RSPB with over 8 million hours of monitoring garden birds around the UK. To mark the event, the RSPB is encouraging participants to share their Big Garden Birdwatch stories. How will you #BigGardenBirdWatch? will showcase some of the best examples of how people take part from building their own birdwatching den, baking birdseed cakes and dressing up as Batman to see Robin.

This year’s event takes place on 26, 27 and 28 January 2019. The public is asked to spend just one hour watching and recording the birds in their garden or local green space, then send their results to the RSPB. Close to half-a-million people join in the Birdwatch every year, around 5,000 of whom, are in Bedfordshire.

Over the last 40 years, 130 million birds have been counted giving the RSPB an astonishing amount of insight into how our wildlife is faring.

For four decades, Big Garden Birdwatch has highlighted the winners and losers in the garden bird world. It was first to alert the RSPB to the decline in song thrush numbers. The song thrush was a firm fixture in the top 10 in 1979. By 2009, its numbers were less than half those recorded in 1979, plummeting to 20th in the rankings. In Bedfordshire, the house sparrow was top of the Big Garden Birdwatch rankings in 2018, with starling and woodpigeon rounding off the top three.

Mike Clarke, RSPB Chief Executive, said: “Everyone has a role to play in saving nature and protecting our wildlife. Big Garden Birdwatch participants have made

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Photo: Louise Greenhorn

a significant contribution to monitoring garden bird numbers over the past four decades. Those taking part work together as part of a community with thousands of other Big Garden Birdwatchers to help the RSPB’s work to protect birds, other wildlife and the places they live.

Reaching 40 years is a huge achievement and shows just how passionate people across the UK are about their wildlife. The survey started as a winter activity for our youth members. It’s now the largest garden wildlife survey in the world and appeals to both children and adults because it’s an enjoyable, easy, inclusive activity that anyone can do and a great opportunity to connect with nature.”

The survey has also shown the increases in collared dove and wood pigeon numbers and the alarming declines of the house sparrow and starling. While the overall decline in house sparrow numbers, reported by participants, since the Big Garden Birdwatch began is 57% (1979 – 2018), in the most recent decade (2009-2018) numbers appear to have increased by 17%.

As well as counting birds, the RSPB is once again asking participants to log some of the other wildlife they have seen throughout the year. This year, people are being asked to look out for badger, fox, grey squirrel, red squirrel, muntjac deer, roe deer, frog and toad.

To take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch 2019, watch the birds in your garden or local park for one hour at some point over the three days. Only count the birds that land, not those flying over. Tell us the highest number of each bird species you see at any one time – not the total you see in the hour.

The parallel event, RSPB Big Schools’ Birdwatch takes place during the first half of spring term (2 January – 22 February 2019). More than 60,000 schoolchildren spent an hour in nature counting birds in 2018.

Further information can be found at www.rspb.org. uk/schoolswatch For your FREE 40th anniversary Big Garden Birdwatch pack, which includes a bird identification chart, plus RSPB shop voucher and advice to help you attract wildlife to your garden, text BIRD to 70030 or visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch Registration for Big Garden Birdwatch 2019 opens 12 December 2018.

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GILKS FENCING LTD

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

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 Fencing Services  Security Fences  Garden Fences  Gates  Repair & Restoration Call 01767 316901 or 07927 748460

Email: rsfencingservices83@gmail.com Web: www.rsfencingservices.co.uk

Our services extend across Beds, Herts and Cambs from RS Fencing 64

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Rehoming Appeal

Pets

Eric

Eric is an 10 year old Jack Russel Terrier but despite being an older dog, he is still very active and enjoys his walks and is house-trained. He is a sweet, gentle dog.

A thorough vet check has shown that Eric has no physical problems and is very healthy for his age. He does, however, have some night-time issues caused by canine cognitive disfunction (often known as Sundowners Syndrome). This means that in the evenings he can begin to pace and become restless, sometimes barking.

Because of this, he follows a night-time routine which involves him being crated with plenty of soft bedding which helps him to feel secure. With the aid of some herbal supplements he will relax and fall asleep.

Eric just wants to be with someone all the time, so is looking perhaps for an older couple who are at home all day or can take him with them when going out.

He loves nothing more than to sit on someone’s lap and be stroked. Eric is not a fan of cats and although he gets on well with other dogs, he prefers the attention he gets being an only dog.

If you could offer this lovely boy a home, please contact Julie on 01763 289827.

Alternatively, please e-mail Philippa at info.rats@gmail.com who will be pleased to forward your enquiry on to the team.

Website: www.rats-animalrescue.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/ratscharity

Tim Brown 01767 627532 bedford@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com

BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS A Very Brown Hedge Indeed Aphids are one of the most common and troublesome of all garden insect pests. They attack a large number of garden plants throughout the country and are recently causing much disfigurement to ornamental conifer hedges. Commonly known as Greenfly and Blackfly, these aphids feed on hedges, sucking the sap of the plant and can spread several viruses, causing severe dieback.

Cypress Aphid is currently troublesome and pre-dominantly affects conifer hedging. Damage inflicted on conifer hedges by the aphid Cinara cupressi is severe and can lead to large brown patches on the hedge. This leads to localised foliage death, reducing the aesthetic look of the hedge. As the aphid is active from May to October it is important to catch this problem early and apply treatments to stop its spread. At the first sign of brown patches call us for a free consultation and professional advice.

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

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Pets

Animal Stories We would like you to meet Amy. Amy came into our care back in January earlier this year, after she was found abandoned in a cardboard box in Bedford’s Priory Country Park. She was advertised in the hope of finding a previous owner, but sadly no one came forward which made it apparent that Amy had been dumped. Unlike most of our neglect or abandonment cases, who come in to us weak and underweight, Amy was a fat cat weighing over 6kg! She had obviously been over-loved and was in need of a diet. Since she has been in our care she has done incredibly well on her diet and is now a healthy weight.

Amy, 8 years old, is a loving girl who likes nothing more than a cat nap. She enjoys a fuss as long as it is on her terms and you have made friends first.

Over the 10 months Amy has been in our care she has had only one enquiry, which unfortunately quickly fizzled out. She is getting fed up in the cattery, seeing all the other cats come and go, leaving her to patiently wait for her chance at finding a happy home. We would love to find her a loving new home before the year is over, so she doesn’t have to celebrate her year anniversary!

Bedfordshire North Branch is an independent, selffunded RSPCA charity and our main aim is to take in, rehabilitate and rehome cats and small furries from RSPCA Inspectorate. Our charity shop is the biggest and most important source of income to fund this, and after sadly losing our beloved Bus Station shop back in spring this year due to lease

expiration, we are delighted to announce we have opened a new shop, and only three doors down from the old one! Our 6 Thurlow Street, Bedford Bus Station shop used to be a café, so after a month of hard work and determination, with an incredible team of carpenters, plumbers and volunteers, the renovation was complete and we have now opened our doors. Although the new shop is slightly smaller than our last, it has been fitted out beautifully with a more modern and up to date look, but still with plenty of room. We have so far received an amazing amount of donations and public support, and we’re so pleased to be back up and running, raising vital funds for our animal welfare work.

If you would like to enquire about rehoming our beautiful Amy, or would like some more information on how you could support our new charity shop, whether by donating or volunteering, we would love to hear from you.

You can call our office on 01234 266965 or email us at info@rspcabedsnorth.org.uk.

To keep up to date with our Branch animals or fundraising, visit our website www.rspca.org.uk/ local/bedfordshire-north-branch.

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

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Pets

Thinking about getting a kitten?

Three things you need to think about Getting a kitten is an exciting prospect – they’re fun and entertaining, not to mention adorable and cute. But before you bring home your new furry friend, it’s important to check whether you’re fully prepared and that your home is kitten-friendly.

So what do you need to think about before you bring your kitten home?

1. Providing a safe and welcoming home environment A kitten’s early experiences in your home can influence their behaviour in the long-term.

If they’re to settle in quickly you’ll need to provide a safe environment, plenty of love and attention, and a warm and comfortable place to sleep.

2. What to feed your kitten Kittens have specific nutritional needs that develop as they grow. High quality food

formulated specifically for kittens provides the protein, minerals, amino acids, and vitamins they need – your vet will be able to advise on different brands and ranges.

3. Fun and games Your kitten will need a scratching post, as well as toys to keep them entertained and use up some of that boundless energy. It doesn’t need to cost a fortune – a simple cardboard box can amuse them for hours, along with a ball or mouse toy they can chase.

Kittens provide endless entertainment with their antics and quirky behaviour. Giving careful thought to their surroundings and providing a safe, comfortable, and loving environment in which they can thrive, is the greatest gift you can give them. www.pdsa.org.uk/taking-care-of-your-pet/looking-afteryour-pet/kittens-cats/the-cost-of-owning-a-cat

By Ann Haldon

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Puppy and Dog Training Classes various locations around Cambridgeshire www.dogstrustdogschool.org.uk 07388 377371 cambridgeshiredogschool@dogstrust.org.uk @dogschoolcambridgeshire

fb.com/dogstrustdogschool

dogstrustdogschool

Providing exceptional compassionate veterinary care for over 50 years Open 8am-8pm Mon-Fri, 8.30am-4pm Saturday at Hitchin Laparoscopic (key-hole) surgery In-house laboratory Surgical and Medical Veterinary Certificate Holders Extensive range of nurse clinics Experienced local team Veterinary Acupuncture Puppy Parties

HITCHIN (01462) 451500

SHEFFORD (01462) 812746

www.berryhousevets.co.uk

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Pets

Ask Alan

My dog is very nervous and I dread this time of year.

What can I do to help him when the fireworks start?

It’s that time of year where the nights start drawing in and people start thinking about fireworks (and don’t seem to stop until after the new year). While it is festive for us, it can be very distressing for our pets.

Fireworks are a problem because they cause loud, unexpected noise and light and many pets are noise phobic. While desensitizing a noise phobic pet is a very long term project (and should involve a behaviorists), there are quite a few simple things that can make a difference on the day.

Close the curtains early, before any fireworks are expected, to reduce the noise and cut out the light flashes.

Have music playing in the background, preferably something with a beat, to mask the bangs. Make sure you have made a safe place where your pet can hide. Speak to us about what you can use to reduce stress, there are many good products available. Generally, we try to avoid sedatives/tranquilizers as these can actually cause more problems. The hardest part is to not, inadvertently, reward the fearful behavior by petting them.

As long as they are not harming themselves, it is best to try to let them settle themselves.

It can be a distressing time but try to stay calm yourself, as pets pick up your feeling and reflect them, but hopefully, these simple steps will make it easier for both of you.

Best wishes,

Alan

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If you have any questions you would like answered, please email them to villager@pottonvets.co.uk. For more information visit www.pottonvets.co.uk or pop into the clinic in Potton Market Square.

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Business gone slow?

Let us help!

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

Can I go to the Paddocks for my Holiday please?

Paddocks Boarding Cattery Peaceful location. No dogs boarded.

Spacious, individual, heated chalets with large covered runs.

Inspection welcome. Boarding from ÂŁ7.50/day.

Rabbits/guinea pigs also boarded.

64 Meadow Road, Great Gransden

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

The cattery for caring owners.

Comfort and security for your pet.

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Local News

Arrows Elite Arrows Elite Cheerleading and Gymnastics is a local community group using cheerleading and gymnastics to engage local young people in an active, athletic activity. They aim to make a difference in the lives of young people through activity by providing: excellent training and coaching, structured engagement in a team environment and excellent opportunities to develop leadership skills, so that local young people can go on to inspire future generations in their communities.

Cheerleading Coach, Emily says: “We focus on instilling our values of confidence, teamwork and leadership into each young person we work with. We believe that at Arrows Elite, we provide our athletes with positive and empowering tools to transform their lives: Through our training programs, and athletic activities, we believe our athletes gain the skills they need to progress into adulthood and live successful lives”.

Arrows Elite have a fully equipped gym, based at Stratton Upper School, Biggleswade, training four Cheerleading teams and seven gymnastics classes.

Their teams have competed at events across the

country with the Junior Team: Strike placing second at the most recent South Regional Championship.

They are looking for new members to join their teams, and are offering FREE taster sessions to anyone that would like to give it a go, why not head down and try it out?

Monday’s: 6.30pm-8pm- Ages 9-11 Tuesday’s: 6pm-8pm- Ages 12-14 Wednesday’s: 5.15-6.30pm- Ages 4-8 For information, email: cheer@arrowselite.co.uk if you are interested in gymnastics classes email: gym@arrowselite.co.uk.

Keep Up on our website: www.arrowselite.co.uk Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/arrowselite/

Children aged between 0 - 5 years

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

• • • • • • • • • •

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

54 High St, Sandy Bedfordshire, SG19 1AJ

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

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Parenting

Making Christmas Extra Special Elf on a Shelf The original idea behind Elf on a Shelf was that an elf would arrive at the start of Christmas to watch over children and report back to Father Christmas. However, the trend has changed in recent years to become a bit more fun (and a bit less creepy). Now the craze is for the elf to get up to mischief overnight, whether it’s making snow angels in flour, tying the children’s shoelaces together or wrapping the loo in Christmas paper. (Search Pinterest for inspiration.)

Kindness elves Not keen on the idea of a pint-sized prankster? Kindness elves have become a popular alternative.

They still move each night but rather than tricks, they leave notes praising the child for a good deed or suggesting a kind act the child could do, such as visiting an elderly neighbour or making a card for a relative.

Advent calendars Looking for an alternative to a chocolate advent calendar? If you have the time, you could make or buy a reusable calendar to fill with trinkets and second-hand

small toys. A bundle of Shopkins characters, for example, can be picked up relatively cheaply on eBay. The calendar can then be brought out again each year, so becoming part of your family’s festive traditions. If you don’t have the time (or energy) to find 24 gifts, the advent calendars from Lego, Smiggle, Playmobil and the Early Learning Centre offer a decent selection of goodies for £20-£30.

You can also sometimes find a previous year’s calendar for £10 or less on eBay. Digital calendars have different activities, images, videos or other features to unlock each day. The best one I’ve found is by Jacquie Lawson. It costs just £3 and will work on most computers, smartphones and tablets. Activities include making a snowflake, decorating a Christmas tree and solving puzzles. Each activity can be played as many times as you like. (Grown-ups tend to enjoy this calendar just as much as the kids.)

See www.jacquielawson.com.

If your child loves crafts, the Mini Makes Christmas papercraft book

by Half Pint Home will provide hours of entertainment. There’s an activity for each day leading up to Christmas, including mini-bunting, finger puppets, decorations and more. Mini Makes Christmas costs £12.99 from www.etsy.co.uk.

Video messages from Father Christmas Surprise your child with a personalised video message from Father Christmas, thanks to Portable North Pole (PNP). You can get a short video for free or unlock lots of different personalised videos, phone calls and stories for around £11. The videos are very well made and will keep your child believing for that little bit longer, see www.portablenorthpole.com.

Santa Spy Cam With the Santa Spy Cam app, you can capture video evidence of elves and Father Christmas visiting your home. My daughter caught an elf on camera last year using the app and the experience made her a believer again. The app is available for Apple and Android phones. One video is free, the rest cost a few pounds, see www. santaspycam.com.

By Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

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A flexible day nursery for children from 6 weeks to 5 years with extensive and well resourced grounds. ur o y f f o Excellent links to s onth’ 1st m es the A1, St Neots and fe Sandy railway station.

30%

To find out more call us today

01767 681805 76 London Road, Sandy Beds. SG19 1DZ e: info@manorfarm-day-nursery.co.uk w: www.manorfarm-day-nursery.co.uk

• • • • • •

Swimming Lessons

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

Call Heather on Tel: 01767 631053 Mob: 07511168499

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CALL US TODAY

NEW LOCAL SERVICE

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LONG & SHORT JOURNEYS

CARD PAYMENTS AVAILABLE

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For further details please visit www.townandsurround.co.uk

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Motoring

By James Baggott

How to deal with pothole damage to your car Winter is the season of snow, woolly clothes and — at least on poorly-kept UK roads — potholes.

All motorists will know the struggles of trying to avoid potholes, but sometimes they’re either impossible to get around or go unnoticed. This can result in a little discomfort at best, and plenty of damage to your car at worst.

We look at how you can report a pothole and, should you pick up damage, how you can claim money to cover repair costs.

Why do potholes form?

Potholes are most commonly created when water creeps into the cracks in the roads and freezes.

The expansion and contraction of water moves the asphalt around, weakening it as a result. The stress of vehicle movement over the road eventually causes the asphalt to give way, thus forming a hole.

Although potholes can form at any time, colder winter temperatures make them much more likely.

What can a pothole do to my car?

The uneven, sudden drop of a pothole puts significant stress on a vehicle’s tyres and suspension. As tough as modern cars are, there’s a chance a pothole could damage a tyre to the point of puncture,

add excess wear to suspension components or break them entirely.

Extreme holes could even damage alloy wheels and components underneath a vehicle.

How can I report a pothole?

To report a pothole on a local road, you should contact the relevant council and inform them of the location of the hole.

As for A-roads and motorways, the Highways Agency must be notified by calling 0300 123 5000.

How can I claim for damage costs?

At the risk of sounding like an insurance advert, you could be entitled to compensation should your car be damaged due to going over a pothole.

If the pothole has been previously reported, you’re more likely to receive some compensation that if it has not. Councils have a statutory defence that they cannot be held liable for defects they’re unaware of.

There are some steps you can take before making a claim to increase your chances of a payout: • Make notes — write down key details, such as location, time of the incident, and the size and depth of the pothole if

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possible. You should also take a photograph as evidence.

• Witnesses — if anyone else has seen the incident, get details from them. It could help your claim.

• Get repair quotes — having accurate quotes for repair bills could help to ensure you get as much of the damage repairs covered as possible in a claim.

• Research — before making a claim, you should check to see what your council is and isn’t liable for.

To make a claim for pothole damage, contact the local council for local roads and the Highways Agency for A-roads and motorways Can I claim pothole damage on my insurance?

Your insurer may provide cover for pothole damage, and this is more likely if you have a comprehensive policy. It’s worth checking your policy documents and contacting your insurer before making a claim.

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Motoring

“Alexa! I’m In The Car” A virtual reality presentation of being in a car crash left me feeling sickened recently. Picture this: you’re the front seat passenger in a hatch-back, whizzing down a lane. To your right the driver is laughing with the two back-seat passengers, who are passing him a phone. He shows the phone to you and looks at the screen. As we round a corner to see a tractor across the road, there’s a scream and it goes black. You come ‘around’ to the screaming of the injured driver. The legs of one of the back-seaters are across the dashboard, the rest of them is through the windscreen. You look down to see your virtual legs smashed against the glovebox. Outside, the emergency services are tending to the injured as the roof is being cut off.

It’s very realistic.

I discussed the many in-car distractions that go towards creating conditions for a crash with the policeman running the demo. This chimed

with a news piece that Amazon are aiming to put Alexa in-car. I note its hands-free operation, to request traffic information etc., but I am also aware of the distraction chatting to ‘her’ will create: two friends of mine nearly rear-ended a car because they had been talking to Siri on a phone and weren’t paying attention to what was happening outside.

I know it’s the responsibility of drivers and passengers as to how these devices are used in-car, but daily I see drivers still using phones, undeterred by fines and points. There is enough happening on our roads already, so yet another distraction within a driver’s reach seems insane.

By Iain Betson

Fun Quiz - Shops 1. What type of shop is the Little Shop Of Horrors in a 1960 film of this name, the 1982 musical based on this, and the 1986 film based on this musical?

2. Situated on Regent Street in London, what is the name of the world’s largest toy shop?

3. In the Harry Potter novels, what does the shop called Ollivanders sell?

4. In which British city would you find Pulteney Bridge, one of only four bridges in the world to have shops built across the full span on both sides?

5. Which Greek city was Richard Tompkins, founder of the Green Shield Stamps company, on holiday in when came up with the idea for a new shop?

6. In what decade did the act of parliament known as the Sunday Trading Act allow shops in England and Wales to open on a Sunday?

7. In a game of bingo, what number is referred to as “top of the shop”?

8. Formed in 1982, which duo named themselves after the slogan of a furniture shop in Hull that boasted of selling almost anything newlyweds would need?

9. Together with her sister, which famous person opened a vintage clothing shop in London in 2010 called Lucy In Disguise?

10. Now with over 3,000 stores worldwide, which shop first opened in Brighton in 1976 and was soon threatened with court action by a nearby undertaker who objected to its name?

1. A florist 2. Hamleys 3. Magic wands 4. Bath 5. Argos 6. 1990s (1994) 7. 90 8. Everything But The Girl 9. Lily Allen 10. The Body Shop

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Three Counties Radio

Guinea Fowl stuffed with curry leaf butter with corn and coconut puree and chilli popcorn One of the things I love most about my Weekend Kitchen show is the colorful character of my guests.

To put it bluntly, you don’t get to be a top chef by being a shrinking violet. You need charisma, creativity, passion – and eyes wide open to the world around you. Cat Ashton fits this bill. She is originally from Australia and has travelled extensively honing her craft at Michelin starred restaurants. She is also a brilliant character and her vibrant and comforting food reflects her personality. She has just landed in St Albans as the head chef at the new Abbey Restaurant and this fancy looking – but easy to execute – dinner party dish is her creation.

You will need (Serves 4) 4 large Guinea fowl or chicken supremes (skin on) Curry leaf butter 250g butter, softened 1 clove garlic, finely grated 1 tablespoon fried curry leaves ½ teaspoon curry powder 1 teaspoon sea salt 1. Place all the butter ingredients into a food processor. Whip until light and fluffy (note: this recipe makes much more than needed but can last in the fridge for a few weeks and be used for all sorts of dishes).

2. Stuffing the breast: Using your finger, create an air pocket between the skin of the fowl and the breast meat. Evenly pipe about 2 tablespoons worth of butter inside the cavity and place in it the fridge to set for 1 hour.

3. Season the supremes and heat a little oil in a pan.

Cook them skin side down for 2-3 minutes, to get a golden skin. Flip them over and pop them in an oven at 180C/ Gas Mark 4 to finish them off for 6-8 minutes. You want them to feel moist and slightly bouncy, not rock hard.

Corn and coconut puree 1 shallot, diced 1 clove garlic, chopped 25ml olive oil 250g corn kernels (tinned or fresh) 200ml coconut milk 1. Heat the oil in a pan and sweat off the shallots for 2 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and a pinch of salt and continue to cook for a further minute.

2. Add the corn and mix well. Fry for 2 minutes and add the coconut milk. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until softened. Puree in a blender until smooth.

Serve warm Popcorn 50g corn kernels 10ml rapeseed oil Salt Garlic powder Chilli powder 1. Cook the popcorn as per the packet instructions.

Then dust with salt, garlic powder and chilli powder to your desired spice level.

To serve; Serve the puree on the plate, topped with the guinea fowl and finish off with the popcorn around the plate. This goes particularly well with spiralised raw yellow courgette, served just between the meat and the puree. Add a few final corn kernels on the plate for decoration

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

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By Dr Ken German

Crime

Local Tradesmen and Women Targeted by Thieves

Tradesmen and women are currently under attack from criminals who are destroying their vehicles to gain access and steal the tools necessary for them to carry on with their businesses. Our local services including builders, mechanics, engineers and many others who help with house improvements, car repairs, deliveries and emergencies have all been affected at some time many losing all their working tools and equipment and often being left with vehicles so badly damaged that they are subsequently ‘written off’ by their insurance companies.

Every town and city across the country appears to have their own plague of ’tool thieves’ responsible for causing hardship and havoc to van owners with reports posted on social media almost every day of at least 6 tradesmen’s vehicles being damaged with contents stolen often culminating in the demise of sole operators and small businesses being forced into bankruptcy.

Ironically the police who of course are initially blamed on various social media sites for not arresting those responsible or recovering this stolen equipment have rightly responded offering their own pictures depicting large quantities of identical stolen property they have collected from various searches and raids they have conducted all of which they cannot identify and desperately want to restore to their rightful owners.

Indeed as one local officer suggested ‘a suspect who is often unemployed and found in possession of 93 electric drills, saws and hammers, 14 Jet washers, 17 MIG/spot welders, 19 compressors and thousands of tools all stacked in his living room offering no good account to his possession of the items might reasonably expect us to assume he had stolen them. ‘ This ‘Catch 22’ conundrum does appear to have a simple solution however.

Owners must mark their tools and equipment with their own individual identification (Initials/post code) that would establish enough information to allow the police to search crime reports and national databases and identify and restore items to their rightful owners whilst at the same time giving them the opportunity to charge those responsible and obtain a conviction for theft.

The sad irony is that should the police fail to find owners for any of their acquired stolen property they could be forced to return all of it back to the thieves who could boast that it was returned to them by the police having been through their identification process and they are therefore entitled to declare they are legitimate owners.

Seasoned Firewood Locally sourced hardwood Split and fully seasoned

£65 a Dumpy Bag Including delivery (Builders Bag)

Simon Gurry 07734 159501 Don’t shiver, we deliver To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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Garden View

By Rachael Leverton

Leaf Matter.

Leaves Matter!

Oh, those autumn leaves. So pretty on the trees but they can be rather inconvenient in the garden.

If they drift too deep on the lawn the grass underneath will die so there’s nothing to do but rake them up. However, these fallen leaves are a little autumn gift from nature and with them you can create leaf mould. Leaf mould is free garden nourishment, and it’s it’s like feeding your soil with the finest fillet steak. Leaf mould is what’s left when the dead, fallen leaves from deciduous trees and shrubs are heaped up and allowed to rot down. As they slowly decompose, only the toughest bits remain, eventually forming crumbly, dark brown crumbs, a bit like chocolate sprinkles.

Leaf mould is easy to make, a delight to handle, and you can’t possibly overfeed your soil with it.

Micro-organisms are the driving factor, performing an alchemy that gives the finished product an almost magical quality. Its fibrous nature retains moisture and enables free drainage, which means it also makes a great mulch for trilliums or wood anemones, whose natural habitat is woodland.

I adhere to a policy of only collecting leaves where necessary. Where they have fallen and are not obscuring the grass I leave them for the

earthworms to pull into their burrows (I wrote last month about how I think of earthworms as my friends and so do nothing to discourage them).

Simply sweeping leaves off paths and decking or patios will keep the garden looking cared for. I also remove any that have drifted around my herb garden because herbs like to be able to breathe.

These tasks alone give me enough leaves to create plenty of lovely leaf mould.

If you have enough room, create a separate leaf heap rather than simply adding leaves to compost.

It’s quite simple to construct a leaf cage using chicken wire and posts. You can even bag your leaves in punctured black bin bags and put them in an out-of-the-way corner. The puncturing is necessary to allow air to circulate. A leaf heap made this autumn will be ready by next autumn.

While you’re tidying up the leaves it can be tempting to cut down faded perennials. But if you leave them, in a month or so you will find they have turned into wonderful sculptural winter skeletons which look incredibly beautiful in the frosts. It’s all down to personal taste of course, but I often leave perennials standing until February or March simply to provide a bit of interest over the winter.

Happy Gardening

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JL Oil Heating

OFTECH registered and insured

Services Repairs Boiler installations Tank installations LPG Gas

Contact Jamie on 01767 690977 07724 447566 Jlugmayer4@btinternet.com

JL Oil Heating.indd 1

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08/11/2017 10:0

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n O s ’ t Wha In November

Deadline for What’s On entries is the 12th of the previous month.

What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.com

1, 8, 10 & 22 November Biggleswade Ladies Circle 1 Nov - Christmas Pudding night 8 Nov; 10 Nov - Craftanoon fundraiser for MIND 22 Nov - Christmas paper wreath making A membership club for women aged between 18-45 who want to make new friends have fun and raise money for charity. We meet twice a month, usually on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month in or around Biggleswade. Contact us to find out more.

Tel: Lindsay 07811122212 Email: biggleswadecircle@gmail.com Facebook: Biggleswade Ladies Circle Twitter: @BwadeCircle 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 November Moo Music Sandy, Biggleswade & Shefford 10-10.40am Sutton Village Hall Music & movement classes for 0-5 year olds in Shefford, Sandy & Sutton. First session free.

Tel: 07981 825654 Email: Heather sandymoo@moo-music.co.uk Web: www.moo-music.co.uk/sbs Facebook: www.facebook.com/moomusicsandy 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 November Amici Singers 7.30-9.45pm Trinity Methodist Church, Shortmead Street, Biggleswade Membership £15 per term (£45 per year) A non-auditioning female ensemble with a focus on fun! We do lots of tours, rehearse once a week and work hard/play hard. No auditions, just come along to a session to hear us, or if you want to join in then your first session is FREE! Tel: Ann 01767 650630 or Carole 01767 260815 2 November Autumn Quiz Evening 7.30pm Church Rooms, Sandy £2.50 per person. In aid of The Leprosy Mission.

Teams to consist of a maximum of 6 persons which must be pre-booked with Colin Osborne.

Tel: 01767 682032 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 November Sandy Ukulele Group 7-9pm Baptist Chapel Hall, Bedford Road, Sandy Meets every Friday. Please email for more information on joining the group. Visitors welcome.

Email: sandyukulelegroup1@gmail.com Web: www.sandyukulelegroup.com 3 November Coffee Morning 10-11.30am Potton Salvation Army, Chapel Street Coffee, tea, bacon butties, homemade cakes, cards, Bric-a-Brac, books, jigsaws etc. Coffee Mornings are held on the first Saturday of every month except January. Weekly “Open Door” (tea/coffee, chat and browse various stalls) on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 10-11.30am. Everyone welcome.

Tel: 01767 261138 for further info

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3 November Autumn Fayre 10am-12.30pm Everton Village Hall Stalls a-plenty including homemade cakes, jams and preserves; produce and plants; Gifts; Books; Toys, Bottle Tombola and raffles. Refreshments. In support of St Mary the Virgin Parish Church, Everton.

3 November Come and Sing Faure’s Requiem Come & Sing 10am-4pm, Concert 7.30pm Adults £12, Concessions 10, Children in education free. Vivace Choir is inviting singers to Come and Sing Faure’s Requiem followed by a concert ‘For the Fallen’. The ‘Come and Sing’ and concert will be led

by Vivace’s conductor Robert Bunting. The concert in the evening will include songs by Ivor Gurney and George Butterworth, anthems by Douglas Guest and Parry along with readings of the time. It will be a fitting tribute to those who fought and those who were left behind 100 years ago. Tickets for the concert are available from the Ticket Manager or on the door. The Secretary, Vivace Choir, 2 Regent Street, Stotfold, Hitchin SG5 4ED Tel: 01462 730022 Tel: Ticket Manager 01462 685249 3 November Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire Hardy Plant Society 2pm Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Group AGM followed by a talk from Gill and Peter who are HPS members from Kent. Plants for sale.

Web: www.hpscambsandbeds.co.uk 3 November Dunton Folk Concert Doors open 7.30pm, starts 8pm St Mary Magdalene Church, Dunton Tickets £12, Accompanied under 16s free. Featuring Moore Moss Rutter. A series of remarkable gigs has heightened the sense of anticipation around the reunion of Tom Moore, Archie Churchill-Moss and Jack Rutter in the trio that won them the 2011 BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award. Evening includes a 20 minute interval and normally ends around 10.30pm.

Web: For more details and to buy tickets in advance go to www.duntonfolk.co.uk 3, 10, 17 & 24 November Lego & K’NEX Club 1.45-3.30pm Potton Library Love Lego and K’NEX? Come along and get building!

4 November Biggleswade Baby and Children’s Market 11am-12.30pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Admission £1, Children free. Lots of stalls bursting with top quality like new baby and children’s items from birth to 8 years plus a small selection of unique businesses in the baby and children’s industry showcasing and selling their products and services all under one roof! Refreshments available and goody bags for the first 100 customers!

4 November Gamlingay Village Primary School Fireworks Gates open 4.30pm, Fireworks 6pm Gamlingay EcoHub Advance tickets £5, Family £18; On the gate £6 With music from The Greatest Showman. Tickets from Woodview Farm Shop, Gamlingay Co-Op, EcoHub, Premier Stores and Gamlingay Village Primary School.

5, 12, 19 & 26 November Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-11pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Branch Out meets every Monday night and is a medium-sized Social Club for single people. The club organises regular events, such as dinners, discos, meals, parties, Sunday walks, theatre and concert visits, day and weekend trips and holidays.

Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 www.branch-out.org.uk 6 November Hatley Coffee Morning 10am-1pm Hatley Village Hall Come along for a chat, coffee/tea and a slice of cake.

Donations on the day. All donations split between Hatley Village Hall and Hatley St George Church. First Tuesday of the every month.

6 November Potton Ladies Club 7.30pm Mill Lane Pavilion, Mill Lane, Potton Visitors £5 inc. light refreshments. The speaker will be Emma Cunnington talking about the Children’s Air Ambulance. The Club meets on the first Tuesday of the month. Tel: Sarah Burgoine 01767 631415 Email: sarahjburgoine@gmail.com 6, 13, 20 & 27 November Phoenix Chorus 7.45-10.15pm Potton Lower School Have you loved the a capella singing shows on TV? Could you be pitch perfect with us? Phoenix A Capella Chorus meets every Tuesday. Visitors always welcome. Tel: Sarah 07842 101799 Email: pro@phoenixladies.co.uk Web: https://phoenixladies.co.uk 6, 13, 20 & 27 November Biggleswade Ivel Badminton Club 8-10.30pm Biggleswade Recreation Centre (Stratton Leisure Centre) £3 per night. Seeking competitive badminton players wishing to play in local leagues. Visitors Welcome.

Email: IvelBC@hotmail.com Facebook.com/IvelBC 7, 14, 21 & 28 November Mums and Dads Coffee Morning 9-10am Moggerhanger Church Bring your pre-school children with you. Toys available in the church. Tea/coffee, juice, biscuits £1 with fruit juice for your pre-school children. This can be a good time to meet friends, have impromptu meetings, plan your next commitments, etc..

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n O s ’ t Wha In November

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

7, 14, 21 & 28 November Moo Music Sandy, Biggleswade & Shefford 10-10.40am Sandy Methodist Church Music & movement classes for 0-5 year olds in Shefford, Sandy & Sutton. First session free.

Tel: 07981 825654 www.moo-music.co.uk/sbs Email: Heather sandymoo@moo-music.co.uk

11 November Christmas Gift Fayre 12-3pm The Boundary Café, Potton Free admission. Enjoy coffee while browsing the pop up stalls. 10% of takings to be donated to Keech Hospice Care. The local stall holders will be selling a range of gifts, stocking fillers and handmade decorations ready for the festive season. Stall holder details can be found on the Facebook event which is on The Boundary Café’s Facebook page or by contacting the café. Tel: 07496 622793

7, 14, 21 & 28 November Ivel Bereavement Support Centre 10am-12 noon The Community Rooms, Baptist Church, 24 London Road, Biggleswade Are you struggling coming to terms with losing a 11 November loved one? Perhaps we can help at our drop in centre The Mariner on Wednesdays. Tel: Carole or Jill 07704734225 7.30 pm Little Gransden Village Hall £12, Under 21s £10. Common Ground Theatre 7 November Company return with another amazing play, based Aircraft Enthusiasts’ Group on episodes from the extraordinary life of Samuel 1pm Princess Charlotte Room, Shuttleworth Taylor Coleridge in the context of his most famous Visitors £7 inc. raffle ticket. The Group meets on the poem, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner. A gripping first Wednesday of every month. George Capel will fusion of drama, song, puppetry and film! talk about Bomber Command WWII. Enjoy lunch in Tel: 01767 677906 Email: ssulledit@aol.com the Shuttleworth restaurant before the meeting.

Email: 99aegr@gmail.com Web: www.a-e-g.org.uk 13 November Sutton WI 7.30pm Sutton Village Hall 8 November To commemorate 100 years since World War I, our Biggleswade Evening Women’s Institute speaker will present a talk entitled ‘Letters from 7.45pm Weatherley Centre, Biggleswade the Trenches’. It should give us a fascinating insight A new group which meets on the second Thursday of into the experiences of those soldiers who were each month (except August). Guests welcome. there. The group meets on the second Tuesday of every month.

10 November Sandy Historical Research Group 15 November 10am-1pm Sandy Town Council Chamber, Coral’s Afternoon Tea Cambridge Road, Sandy 2.30-4pm Moggerhanger Church Admission £2, SHRG Members free £2.50 per person. Come and enjoy the freshly made Sandy in The Great War - an exhibition of historical cakes and scones. Net proceeds going equally to the photos. Web: https://shrg.uk/ church upkeep funds and St. John’s Hospice. Open to villagers and non-villagers alike.

10 November Flix Community Cinema: Victoria & Abdul 16 November Doors open 2.30pm, Film starts 3pm Christmas Stocking Filler Sale 10am-12 noon Canada Block, Biggleswade Academy, Mead End Potton Salvation Army, Chapel Street Admission £4 on the door. A community activity that Everyone welcome. Tel: 01767 261138 is run “not for profit”. All welcome. Plenty of easy, free parking on site and disabled access.

17 November Tel: Alan 01767 310163 Web: www.ivelflix.org.uk Christmas Bazaar 2-4pm Southill Parish Hall, High Street, Southill 10 & 11 November All Saints Church, Southill will be holding their Great War Centenary Exhibition annual Christmas Bazaar with stalls, games, tea and Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12.30-4pm mince pies and Santa with his helpers.

St Edmund Church, Park Lane, Blunham Commemoration of the end of World War I, stunning 19 November installation of hundreds of knitted poppies, and war Autism and Diet Workshop memorabilia. Refreshments available.

10am-12:45pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade 11 November Autism Bedfordshire Members £15, Non-members Potton’s Tribute 10.15am-10pm £20. Half-day workshop for parents and primary A day of Commemorative events marking the carers exploring the relationship between autism Centenary of the end of the First World War. Events and diet, focusing on the impact that sensory issues include Battle’s O’er, Remembrance Day Service & have of this often challenging behaviours. Please Parade, Laying of Wreaths, Last Post, WW1 Beacon call to book and pay for your place - all places must of Light, Ringing out for Peace and Armistice be booked and paid for in advance.

Projection. Web: www.pottontowncouncil.co.uk Tel: 01234 217871

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21 November ‘Poetry Table’ Club 8pm The Courtyard Centre in Biggleswade We’re a group of locals who meet around a table once a month to share and hear poetry. The Poetry Table is on the third Wednesday of every month at The Courtyard Centre in Biggleswade. Get your invite at tinyletter.com/poetrytable or search ‘Biggleswade Poetry Table’ for more.

22 November Moggerhanger Walkers 10am Moggerhanger Church We hope to do the stretch from Blunham to Great Barford section of The Ringers’ Walk. The Ringers’ Walk is a circular walk of about 9 miles between the churches of Blunham, Gt. Barford, Roxton and Tempsford and we hope to do other sections of it in future. Our walks start from the church at 10am and we try to end somewhere that serves a cup of coffee.

Walks are open to villagers and non-villagers alike.

Please call for more information or to give us details of an interesting new walk you know of - even if it’s a bit further afield - we would be happy to hear from you. Tel: Dorothy 01767 640242 or Jo 01767 641184 23 November Winter Fayre 6-8pm Everton Heath Primary School, ‑33 Potton Rd, Everton Christmas shopping, crafts and refreshments.

Email: pta@evertonheath.org.uk for info or stalls 24 November Performers & Pints 8.30pm for 9pm Start - 11.30pm The Rising Sun, 11 Everton Road, Potton A great community night out of fresh live music for all. Three music acts: Daisy Keeble, Kelvin Davies and Cara Beard.

Web: www.facebook.com/performerspints 25 November Winter Lights Outing Visit to Anglesey Abbey in aid of The Leprosy Mission.

Full details from Colin Osborne. Tel: 01767 682032 29 November Crafts for Christmas 5-8pm Sandy Secondary School Free admission. Come and join us for a festive evening. Do you have that person who is hard to buy for - come along and do your Christmas shopping at our amazing selection of stalls. Refreshments available. Tel: 01767 680598 for further info Email: friendsofsandysecondaryschool@hotmail.com 30 November Sandy Historical Society 7.30pm Stonecroft Hall, St Swithins Way, Sandy Admission £2.50 inc. refreshments, Members & students free. “My Life in The Royal Household at Buckingham Palace” by Eric McClaughlin Tel: 01767 680171 for further info

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Technology

Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Are the deals really real?

One weekend in November is one of the most significant dates in the retail calendar. It’s Black Friday, an American import that’s become a big deal. On Black Friday, retailers – especially internet ones – promise incredible deals to save you a fortune.

Do the deals live up to the hype?

That really depends on what you want to buy.

Black Friday used to be a single day, and this year it’s Friday the 23rd of November. But it became too big for one day, and soon spread to include the following Monday, dubbed Cyber Monday.

It’s since outgrown that too, so for example, in 2017 Amazon ran a series of sales over what it called Black Friday Deals Week. For many retailers, most of November now means some kind of discounting.

Some of the deals are genuine and many aren’t. If you use a site such as PriceSpy.co.uk or CamelCamelCamel.com to research the price of things, you’ll often find that a Black Friday deal only appears to be good value because the

retailers put the price up in the weeks before. Others quote manufacturers’ recommended retail prices that nobody has ever actually paid: a saving of 50% off the RRP is only a saving if the product was actually on sale for the higher price for a long time.

In many cases it wasn’t.

However, there are good deals to be had across Super Mega Black Friday Fortnight Of Sales, or whatever your favourite retailer calls it this year. They include: • Video game console bundles.

There’s a lot of profit in bundles that combine a console with some games, and as a result they’re often discounted heavily during Black Friday sales. Bundles for the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 should attract big discounts this year. Expect discounts on memberships for gaming services such as PlayStation Plus too.

• Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cookers. For some reason Amazon cuts their price every Black Friday. If you haven’t joined the Instant Pot cult, Black Friday’s a good time to start.

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• Amazon devices. Amazon slashes the price of its Kindles, Kindle Fire tablets, Fire TV sticks and Echo smart home devices every time it has a sale and Black Friday will be no different.

• Older stock. As ever, sales are a great way for retailers to shift old stock to make room for new lines. The longer something’s been around the more likely it will be discounted.

• Big-screen TVs. These plummet in price very quickly and retailers use big discounts on them to attract customers.

The trick to bagging bargains on Black Friday is to know what you want but not to be too picky.

For example, if you want a Sony 65-inch TV you can probably get a deal, but if you only want a very specific model there’s every chance you’ll be out of luck.

Research the market so you know what things are actually worth and stick to a budget. It’s not a bargain if you don’t need or want it. Last but not least, use the price checking services on the day to make sure you really are getting the best price.

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Life Begins...

Second chance careers: Can you make it at 50+?

By Kate McLelland

Turning your back on a career path you’ve worked hard to establish isn’t easy at any time of life, but switching jobs in your fifties and sixties can be particularly daunting.

At a time when one in four people between age 50 and the state pension date is out of work, it’s encouraging to hear about two people who have successfully re-invented their careers, gaining a new lease of life in the process.

Jo Good is best known for presenting a successful show on BBC Radio London, but she recently took the bold decision to step away from the microphone and try her luck as a YouTube vlogger.

Vloggers (short for ‘video-bloggers’) post videos of themselves on the internet, hoping to build up an audience for the type of content they offer. While exploring the work of YouTube vloggers, Jo was struck by how few offered vlogs designed for older people. Consequently last year she set up her own YouTube channel, ‘Jo Good – Middle Aged Minx’.

“It’s the raw, unedited, rough round the edges way of recording my daily life that attracted me to

vlogging,” Jo explains. “I’m really trying to prove that a sixty-threeyear-old has a life worth watching.”

Although Jo’s subscribers can currently be counted in their thousands rather than millions, her strategy is clearly working. Her growing list of followers – mainly aged between 50 and 70 – prove that there’s an appetite for vlogs designed to appeal to an older audience.

However, while Jo has made a conscious decision to forge a new career path, 59-year-old Matthew Holderness was forced into a change of direction when ill health forced him to leave the teaching job he loved.

“My condition made it hard for me to find a conventional job, so I decided to focus on my transferable skills instead,” he says.

“As an English teacher my work was mainly focused on creative writing, so I began to wonder how I might be able to use that commercially.”

Matthew signed up to a freelancers’ website, offering his services as a copywriter, and quickly began to build up a list of clients. Now he works full time for a digital marketing agency.

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“I’m part of a workforce based in several different countries,” says Matthew. “Although I operate from home, I feel globally connected. It’s a very different life.”

Age discrimination in the workplace is still an obstacle, but if you are over fifty and considering a different field of work, the advice is to research your chosen path carefully, re-train if necessary and try to gain some hands-on experience before committing.

Fortunately, there are plenty of resources available to help. A guide to finding work at over fifty is available on the Shaw Trust’s website (shaw-trust.org. uk/Services/Fifty-Plus) while Age UK (ageuk.org.uk) offers further guidance for older jobseekers.

Perhaps the last word should go to Debra Bednar-Clark, who left a high-profile career at Facebook to become a leadership developer and coach. “You are the totality of your experiences,” she told US media site nextavenue. “The key to success and fulfillment in your career is taking everything you’ve learned over the course of your life and bringing it to your next role.”

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ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Suduko

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

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Quirky Britain

Britain’s quirkiest

Bonfire Night Celebrations

November is the month for firework displays, when adults and children gather together on a chilly field to spend half an hour ‘oohing’ and ‘aahing’ as fiery fountains erupt, Catherine wheels spin and rockets light up the night sky.

It’s a fun family event, but our 21st century firework displays seem like pretty tame stuff when compared to the bonfire festivities enjoyed in times gone by.

Fire festivals have been held for thousands of years but the practice of marking 5th November with bonfires and fireworks began as a rowdy celebration to mark the deaths of the conspirators who tried to blow up England’s parliament in 1605, with activities calculated to make any modern-day health and safety officer run for cover.

While it’s no bad thing that firework displays are now controlled and regulated to avoid accidents, some of the devil-may-care spirit that was once the hallmark of November 5th seems to have been lost.

However, there are certain parts of the UK where risk and excitement are an essential part of the enjoyment.

Anarchic fun in Sussex Welcome to Bonfire Night in Lewes, Sussex, where the smell of burnt gunpowder is always accompanied by a faint whiff of anarchy. It’s a night of celebration that promises activities that are – to quote the website lewesbonfirecelebrations.com – “not suitable for very young children … the frail or if you have breathing problems.”

Each year this bonfire event turns the normally sleepy town of Lewes into a heady combination of raucous street bands, rowdy processions, heaving crowds and huge effigies – usually in the form of

hated public figures of the day – made for the sole purpose of being consigned to the flames amidst cheers, jeers and cat-calls.

The town uses Bonfire Night as an opportunity to uphold the traditions of free speech and to remember the dead, particularly the seventeen Protestant martyrs who were burned at the stake in Lewes between 1555 and 1557 under the reign of ‘Bloody Mary’ (Queen Mary I). Their martyrdom is marked annually by a procession of 17 burning crosses.

Tar Barrel Racing in Devon Another place you might prefer to avoid on Bonfire Night if you are of a nervous disposition is Ottery St. Mary, in Devon. This tranquil West Country town changes character on the night of 5th November, becoming the stage for a perilous and fiery race through the streets.

This exhilarating and risky spectacle involves setting light to huge wood and iron barrels soaked in tar.

The barrels are then carried through the town at great speed. Some families have been taking part in the races for many generations and almost 10,000 people turn up each year to cheer them on.

Another quirky and high-spirited bonfire event is Shetland’s Viking fest Up Helly Aa, which takes place at the end of January. These celebrations – tapping into our primitive feelings about fire as something to be loved, feared and respected – are a powerful way of bringing communities together. Although no-one would want to return to the days when members of the public could be injured when activities got out of hand, it’s good to know that some UK communities are still prepared go to such lengths to let their hair down and celebrate together.

By Kate McLelland

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October’s Puzzle Solutions and Winners Last Month’s Crossword Winner Mr Paul Hobbs from Godmanchester Easy

Hard

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The Villager Prize Crossword

Prize

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Across 7. Companies, corporations (13) 8. Thin layer, film (8) 9. Large stringed instrument (4) 10. Places of education (7) 12. Cinders (5) 14. Crustaceans (5) 16. Roads (7) 19. Chemical element, Zn (4) 20. Courteously (8) 22. Relaying of messages (13)

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

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16th November 2018 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd

Down 1. Vacant (4) 2. Strong Asian grass (6) 3. At last (7) 4. Enclosed (5) 5. Desires (6) 6. Most furious (8) 11. Passageway (8) 13. Slanted letters (7) 15. Turn into (6) 17. Manor (6) 18. Unlocks (5) 21. King of the beasts (4)

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Tennis

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

How do you get to Wimbledon?

No the answer isn’t practice, unless you have designs on the trophy of course!

I’ve always been a fan of Wimbledon, and ever since my older brother came home from a school trip, excitedly describing his visit to Centre Court, I’ve had a dream to visit the championship myself. If a visit to Wimbledon is on your bucket list too, here’s what to do. There are four options.

The first is the Public Ballot. To take part, send a SAE to AELTC, PO Box 98, London, SW19 5AE by 19th December latest and you will receive an application form. This needs to be returned by 31st December and grants you entry into the draw for a pair of tickets, but you can’t select which court or day you will visit. Successful entrants will be chosen by random by computer and will be notified by post. Once an offer of tickets has been received, you will need to pay for them online by debit or credit card.

If you’re unsuccessful with the Public Ballot, all is not lost! You can still buy tickets online at Ticketmaster.

Several hundred tickets for Centre Court and Court 3 go on sale one and two days before the day of play.

They can sell out in seconds and are issued strictly on a first come, first served basis, with a maximum of two tickets allowed per person.

If you’re particularly gutsy, you could join The Queue. A limited number of tickets for Centre and Courts 1 and 2 can be purchased on the day, along with several thousand Grounds Passes for courts 3-18. The earlier you join the queue, the more likely you are to get the best tickets, so if it’s one of the show courts you’re after, don’t forget your tent!

Finally, you could purchase a hospitality package. This is expensive but offers you the VIP treatment and would really make your visit a day to remember!

For more information on how to plan your trip to Wimbledon, visit www.wimbledon.com.

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Books

Book Review

By Kate Duggan Stuck for the perfect present? Our literary gift guide might help…

For crime lovers

Girl On Fire

by Tony Parsons A terrorist attack on a shopping centre sees DC Max Wolfe on the hunt for the culprits before they can strike again. He also has battles closer to home to deal with in the form of his ex-wife, who wants custody of their daughter. A gripping story with plenty of twists to keep you guessing.

For family saga fans

The Distant Hours

by Kate Morton A long-lost letter sets Edie on a quest to uncover more about her mother Meredith’s experiences as an evacuee. Meredith was taken in by the three Blythe sisters, including the enigmatic Juniper. As Edie soon discovers, her mother isn’t the only one who’s been keeping secrets. An enjoyable, atmospheric novel that treads the line between family saga, gothic mystery and historical fiction.

For young readers

Alice Dent and the Incredible Germs

by Gwen Lowe In Alice’s world, cleanliness is crucial, illness is not tolerated and laughter is strictly forbidden. So when Alice gets a cold and a case of the giggles, she’s in big trouble. She manages to escape the clutches of the Best Minister for Everything Nicely Perfect, but for how long? Alice Dent and the Incredible Germs is very funny and perfect for sharing at bedtime.

Professor Stewart’s Casebook of Mathematical Mysteries

by Ian Stewart Cabinet of Mathematical Curiosities and Hoard of Mathematical Treasures is a miscellany of over 150 mathematical curios and conundrums. He manages the subtle balancing act of appealing to all. Those with a mathematical background will find much to enjoy but so will those whose abiding memory of school maths is counting the minutes until the end-of-lesson bell.

Casebook is packed full of humour. It follows the adventures of the hapless detective Hemlock Soames and his sidekick Dr John Watsup. By a remarkable coincidence they live at 222B Baker Street, just across the road from their more illustrious neighbour.

The book is designed to be read, and shared, in bite-sized chunks and it is the sharing aspect which makes this irresistible.

Harvesting Dreams: Hundertwasser for Kids

by Barbara Stieff In this colourful, quirky book Barbara Stieff introduces children to Hundertwasser’s free-thinking, inspirational approach to art and the environment. There is something about Hundertwasser’s vibrant, exciting work which appeals to children and adults alike. Most children enjoy colouring and love bright colours but often become bogged down with making things look ‘right’ rather than developing their own creative style.

Stieff’s engaging and slightly off-the-wall style suits the book. She spent many years as an art educator at ZOOM, a children’s museum in Vienna and it shows. The book is packed with fun projects and suggestions for stretching children’s imaginations in an artistic but also in a more general way. It is also lavishly illustrated with Hundertwasser’s work which makes it a beautiful decorative item in its own right; a fact of which Hundertwasser would certainly have approved.

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

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Wood Suppliers

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