Villager Bedford June 2012 by debi1977

VILLAGER The

Issue 16 - June 2012

Bringing local business to local people in Bedford and surrounding villages

and Town Life

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VILLAGER

In this Issue

The

and Town Life

Issue 16 - June 2012

Summerhill Farm Shop Local and Seasonal

Bringing local business to local people in Bedford and surrounding villages

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Henlow Bridge

Editorial

Lakes and Riverside

Bedford Borough Council, Pippa Greenwood, Pippa Duncan, Leon F Jones and Debbie Singh-Bhatti

Front Cover Image

The Queen

Drawn by Katherine Dewar

Advertising Sales Christa Hallam Tel: 07868 369257 Christa@villagermag.com

Design and Artwork Design 9 Tel 07762 969460

Publishers

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

VILLAGER The

and Town Life

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.

A Day In The Life Of

Prize Crossword £25 up for grabs!

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.............................................4 Torch Light............................................................................6 Fun Quiz............................................................................... 11 Great Summer in Bedford Borough...................................12 Priory Country Park.............................................................15 Teddy Bears Picnic.............................................................. 16 Love To Dance.....................................................................21 Lawns.................................................................................. 26 Tree and Shrub Fertilisation............................................... 29 Children’s Page...................................................................30 Seasonal Delights............................................................... 32 Teenage Drinking............................................................... 34 Puzzle Page........................................................................36 What’s On...........................................................................38 Wimbledon Championships............................................... 45 Eating Al Fresco.................................................................. 47 You are now able to view the Villager Magazine online at

www.villagermag.com

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THE QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE

JUNE 2012

The Diamond Jubilee takes place in June 2012, marking 60 years of The Queen’s reign. The Queen came to the throne on 6th February 1952 (her Coronation took place on 2nd June 1953). The official emblem for The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012 is the winning design following a national competition for children aged between 6 and 14. It was drawn by 10-year-old Katherine Dewar, from Chester. The Queen was born at 2.40am on 21 April 1926 at 17 Bruton Street in Mayfair, London. She was the first child of The Duke and Duchess of York, who later became King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. At the time she stood third in line of succession to the throne after Edward, Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII), and her father, The Duke of York. But it was not expected that her father would become King, or that she would become Queen. The Princess was christened Elizabeth Alexandra Mary in the private chapel at Buckingham Palace. She was named after her mother, while her two middle names are those of her paternal great-grandmother, Queen Alexandra, and paternal grandmother, Queen Mary. The Princess’s early years were spent at 145 Piccadilly, the London house taken by her parents shortly after her birth, and at White Lodge in Richmond Park.

She also spent time at the country homes of her paternal grandparents, King George V and Queen Mary, and her mother’s parents, the Earl and Countess of Strathmore. In 1930, Princess Elizabeth gained a sister, with the birth of Princess Margaret Rose. The family of four was very close. When she was six years old, her parents took over Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park as their own country home. In the grounds of Royal Lodge Princess Elizabeth had her own small house, Y Bwthyn Bach (the Little Cottage), which was given to her by the people of Wales in 1932. Princess Elizabeth’s quiet family life came to an end in 1936, when her grandfather, King George V, died. His eldest son came to the throne as King Edward VIII, but, before the end of the year, King Edward VIII had decided to give up the throne in order to marry the woman he loved, Mrs Wallis Simpson. Upon his abdication, Princess Elizabeth’s father acceded to the throne as King George VI, and in 1937 the two Princesses attended their parents’ coronation in Westminster Abbey. Princess Elizabeth was now first in line to the throne, and a figure of even more intense public interest.

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Torch Light

The history of the Olympic torch The Olympic Games are almost upon us. The Olympic torch arrived in Britain on May 18th and is now travelling all around the country. The route is planned to take in 1000 towns and villages along the way, and is designed so that 95% of the population will be within 10 miles travelling distance of at least one stopping point. But what is the story behind the Olympic flame? During the ancient Games in Olympia, Greece, a flame ignited by the sun burned continually on the altar of the goddess Hera. The modern flame first made an appearance in the 1928 Olympics, held in Amsterdam, Holland, where it burned throughout the period of the Games. The tradition of the relay began in 1936 in Berlin and persists until this day. The torch is lit a few months before the start of the games, in Olympia, at the Temple of Hera. An actress, dressed in ceremonial robes uses a parabolic mirror to focus the rays of light from the sun, igniting a flame. This flame is then carried in a fire pot to the ancient Olympic stadium. It is taken to an altar and used to light the first runnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s torch. The design of the torch changes for each Olympics. The London torch is triangular in shape - the three sides represent the three times Britain has hosted the Olympics: 1908, 1948 and 2012. It is decorated with 8000 tiny cut-out circles, one for each of the runners who will carry the torch, and is constructed of a lightweight-but-strong

metal alloy. The route the flame then takes varies according to which city is hosting the Olympics. In the past it has been to the top of Mount Everest (Beijing 2008), and even into space (1996 and 2000)! It is carried on foot wherever possible, but also has to travel by other modes of transport, including boat and plane. On planes the fire has to be housed in a special lamp as open flames would not be allowed. As the torch is carried by relay, each runner carries it for only one part of its total journey. They then light the torch of the next runner. On average110 runners will take part each day, and each runner will run approximately 300m. Until the 1950s only men could carry the torch, and it took until 1968 in Mexico City before a woman was allowed to be the final runner. The first woman to do this was called Enriqueta Basileo. Carrying the torch is considered a great honour. Perhaps surprisingly, most of the runners are not athletes. They are chosen for many reasons, often because they have overcome personal difficulties, or because they are charity workers. The final runner is generally kept a secret until as close to the time of the Games as possible. Previous Olympians mooted as a possible final runner for 2012 include Steve Redgrave, Steve Ovett and Daley Thompson. By Tom Hancock

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Summerhill Farm Shop

Local and Seasonal Many varieties of fruit and vegetables are now available right through the year via 24 hour supermarkets – we have become accustomed to buying anything we want, when we want it regardless of where or how it was grown. But do you remember how new carrots used to taste? Or English apples, fresh from the tree, in the late summer or early autumn? Even cucumbers used to have a proper flavour! Fruit and vegetables that have been grown outdoors, naturally and at the time of year they are meant to be grown actually do taste different – just like they did when we were young! And if they have been grown locally, reducing time from field to plate, they taste better and fresher still. It is almost a year since Summerhill Farm Shop in Cardington underwent a change of management and during these last twelve months, much time and effort has been put into sourcing fresh, local produce – fruit and vegetables themselves and produce made with them. The weather so far in 2012 has made it a little more difficult as produce hasn’t been ready for picking on time but, finally, it is coming through! Cornish new potatoes are already available as are perfect (bright red!) local tomatoes, ice berg and little gem lettuces, asparagus has finally arrived weeks later than normal and many others now following each week. Locally grown seasonal vegetables at their best – delicious! Sourcing locally is important to Summerhill Farm Shop as it crucial to supporting the local economy – buying goods for the shop from local producers keeps money in the local area – their aim is to source as much as possible from within 50 miles. Already there are handmade cakes and biscuits, many preserves and chutneys, various chilli

sauces, eggs, raw chocolate, ice cream, wine, fresh bread and real ales. They have even found locally produced bird food made on the grower’s farm! The same principles apply to the butchery which excels in sourcing local meat – as well as their own beef which is matured for a full 28 days, there is lamb and chicken from within the village and pork from a little further at St Neots. All the traditional cuts are available but the butchers will also cut to your specific requirements or you can choose from the ready-prepared, gourmet selection. The range of handmade sausages, perfect for the barbecue, includes the now famous Summerhill Traditional Pork Sausage – winner of Bedford’s Best Sausage 2011! The deli has presented more of challenge due to the lack of local dairy farming and hence cheese making. However, it can still do the next best thing and buy British! There are an estimated 700 named British cheeses available and Summerhill is working through the list and selecting the best! Tastings on the butchery and deli counters every Saturday mean to you can get to try the very best of local, seasonal produce.

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Drury holidays DOOR TO DOOR COACH HOLIDAYS

The Drury family have been providing luxury coach holidays for over 50 years in the Beds, Bucks and Northants areas.

ISLE OF WIGHT

THE SHANKLIN HOTEL

www.druryholidays.co.uk

2 JULY 2012

5 DAYS £385

Measuring just 23 miles by 13 miles, the Isle of Wight is often referred to as a little slice of England. What makes the Isle of Wight so different is that there you will find the best of Southern England's landscape features condensed into an area of just 147 square miles. Our tour takes us to Ryde, Waltzing Waters, Alum Bay,Ventnor Botanic Gardens & I.O.W Railway

SORRY ALL SINGLE ROOMS SOLD PRICE INCLUDES

TRAVEL INSURANCE £25

Door to door service. Air conditioned coach travel. 4 nights half board accommodation. Steam Train Ride. Entrances to Waltzing Waters & Ventnor Botanic Gardens.

A premier location with spectacular views over Sandown Bay and the surrounding downlands gives the Shanklin Hotel a remarkable backdrop. Situated within the town of Shanklin, the hotel is close to the picturesque 'Old Village', historic Shanklin Chine and the beautiful Rylstone Gardens. The nearby cliff lift provides easy access to golden sandy beaches. The hotel also has a lift.

COCHEM & THE MOSEL HOTEL MULLER

GERMANY

5 AUGUST 6 DAYS £585

The Mosel Valley is characterised by ancient towns, a wonderful mild climate, wooded hills and steep vineyards. From the sparkling river to the dramatic landscape, impressive castles and historic towns, this area is a delight. This tour is based at our centrally located 3 star superior hotel in Cochem, one of the region’s most attractive old towns. During our tour we visit, Koblenz, Bonn, Bernkastel and Trier.

CALL FOR OUR 2012 BROCHURE

TEL: 01234 711318

PRICE INCLUDES: Door to door service. River Cruise. 5 nights half board. Air conditioned coach travel. SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT £94

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Maharajah of Sandy

OPEN 7 DAYS 5.30PM - 11.30PM 22 Market Square, Sandy SG19 1JA

01767 689743/680475

www.maharajahofsandy.co.uk

Inspiring menu, voluptuous flavours, wicked spiciness, authentic cooking DELICIOUS FOOD Reserve your table now for Father’s Day.

Exquisite, modern Indian cuisine

Fully licensed

Takeaway menu available

Climate controlled

Fun Quiz - Money 1. What colour is a 20 euro note? Red, blue or yellow? 2. According to the 2011 Sunday Times Rich List, who is the richest dragon on the TV show Dragon’s Den? 3. In the board game Monopoly, how much money do you receive if you win a crossword competition? 4. Before the introduction of the euro, which European country’s unit of currency was the escudo? 5. On a standard UK computer keyboard, above which number does the dollar sign appear? 6. Which financial product was introduced in 1999 with three different types called Mini, Maxi and TESSA-only? 7. How much money would you receive if you sent a video clip to the TV show You’ve Been Framed and it was played on the show? 8. Which famous author appeared on the back of Bank of England 20 pound notes issued between 1970 and 1993? 9. Money Never Sleeps was the sub-title to the 2010 sequel to which 1980s film? 10. How much money would you have in total if, in cockney rhyming slang, you had a pony, a monkey and Pavarotti? 1. Blue 2. Duncan Bannatyne 3. £100 4. Portugal’s 5. 3 6.The ISA (Individual Savings Account) 7. £250 8. William Shakespeare 9. Wall Street 10. £535 (£25, £500 and £10)

Before

After

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GREAT SUMMER IN BEDFORD BOROUGH

CELEBRATING THE DIAMOND JUBILEE The Great Summer in Bedford Borough continues from the 2nd to the 5th June with local celebrations to commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Across the borough families and friends are getting together to commemorate the Jubilee. As part of the celebrations Bedford Borough Council is organising a four day extravaganza focused on Russell Park and the Embankment. Saturday and Sunday 2nd and 3rd June will see the International Kite Festival take on a royal theme. Expect to see the usual mix of high flyers, giant creations and colourful tails fluttering above Russell Park. There’s also an opportunity to fly your own kite, visit the Craft Marquee and browse the many stalls around the site. Also on Sunday join Bedford Borough Council’s The Higgins Art Gallery and Museum for the Big Victorian Jubilee Picnic. The event takes place on the lawn of The Higgins with everyone invited to dress up, bring a picnic and join the flag and bunting making fest. Or if music is your thing Bedford Town Band will be performing from 3pm to 5pm at the Mill Meadows bandstand. Monday will see the final of the Battle of the bands with a chance to hear the winners play live before they hit the main stage at this years River Festival in July. Warm up heats have already been organised with the previous winners set to battle it out across the afternoon from 12pm on Russell Park. Who out of The Scruff, Albany Down, Joy Radio, Brigante, Kastaphor and Kam Singh will be victorious? Join the fun on Tuesday as an “It’s a Knockout” style competition takes over. Hilarious and fun to both play and watch the competition will take teams of 10 through 8 fun-packed games across Russell Park. Those brave enough to take part should visit www.bedfordevents.co.uk for more information. Finally, why not channel your inner child at a special Teddy Bear’s Picnic on Tuesday afternoon?! Between 12.30 and 2.30pm teddies far and wide will be travelling to Russell Park to enjoy a spot of lunch as part of the Jubilee celebrations. So why not dust off your favourite old bear and enjoy an afternoon full of cake, competition and even more memories to treasure? Also at the Picnic Priory Methodist (Newnham Before Avenue), Christ Church and Russell Park Baptist

Church (both located on Denmark Street) will be working together to put on activities for all the family. These include face painting, a puppet show, preparing a giant thank you for the Queen and singing with Castle Community Choir. Mayor of Bedford Borough Dave Hodgson said: “Across the summer we’ve organised a fantastic variety of events for all the family to come and take part in. We’re marking the Jubilee with four days of activities along the embankment and at Russell Park and I urge everyone to come along and join the celebrations.” Further events planned as part of the The Great Summer In Bedford Borough include: • On Sunday 8th July, Bedford welcomes the Olympic Flame into the borough as part of its 8,000 mile, 70 day journey across the UK. Thousands of people are expected to line the route and cheer on the torchbearers as the Flame travels through Bedford from Goldington Road and on to Cotton End. • The 2012 River Festival takes place on 21st and 22nd July and is expected to attract more than 250,000 people to Russell Park and the Embankment across the weekend. The River Festival is the biggest free event in the region and one of the largest in the country providing a huge range of entertainment and fun for the whole family. • Bedford Borough will also be involved with the 2012 London Olympics when the International Athletics Stadium becomes an ‘Olympic Live Site’ between the 3rd and 10th of August. A big screen will be showing the best of the action live throughout the week while local sports groups will be offering everyone the chance to challenge themselves at a range of sports and After activities.

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WimBledon SUNGLASSES 2012 collection

with single vision prescription lenses

from

£109

See better. Look perfect. Bedford 47-49 High St 01234 344866

www.alldersopticians.com

The Unforgettable Close Up and Cabaret Magic of Steve Dean Immerse yourselves and guests in the close up magic of Steve Dean or enjoy a Cabaret Show that includes mentalism and much more. Have you ever witnessed unexplainable events or illusions so convincing that they leave you fascinated & completely spellbound? This is Cabaret, close up mix and mingle and table magic at it’s very best.

Steve is a master of his craft and a member of the prestigious Magic Circle. He has had many letters of thanks and testimonials from people from all walks of life. From a small dinner party to performing on a British Cruise Liner this sort of entertainment is second to none and will give your guests unusual and fantastic entertainment that they can get involved in and will talk about for months to come. (Steve is a member of Equity with full public liability insurance).

Please phone or email for details

07719 261147 • 01767 260671 www.stevedeanmagic.co.uk email: stevedeanmagic@aol.com

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PRIORY COUNTRY PARK

Nestling in a bend of the River Great Ouse Nestling in a bend of the River Great Ouse at just over 360 acres, Priory Country Park offers a refuge from the hustle and bustle of everyday life on the outskirts of Bedford. Priory is haven for wildlife with meadows, lakes, rivers and streams. A quiet corner can always be found to sit and relax. It was recently awarded the prestigious green flag award for the tenth year in succession. Managed by Bedford Borough Council and situated off Barkers Lane the Country Park is easily accessed from the A421 and A428, it is well sign posted on all major Routes into Bedford. There are three way marked trails to follow ranging from just over a mile long around the main lake on the all weather path, taking in sculptures unique to the park. The finger lake trail takes you through the conservation areas of the park. Whilst the long route, at around four miles, takes in the whole of the country park. The leaflets for the trails can be found in the visitor centre, or you can just wander and find your own way. There is the labyrinth and play area for young and old alike to let off steam. Bike hire is also available so you can explore further afield along the national cycle route, Route 51 to Sandy or along the riverside embankment into Bedford. The Ranger team are on duty seven days a week and also undertake a range of guided walks from the ever popular bat walks and bird walks to general walks taking in all aspects of the park, its wildlife and conservation work. Guided walks are free but booking is essential. Priory is also the gateway to the emerging Bedford River valley Park which runs from Bedford along the river valley to Willington.

Join us once a month as the volunteers come together to help undertake practical conservation/maintenance work in the park or for the younger ones come along and join the Wildlife watch group. The park offers a range of fishing opportunities on a day ticket basis or annually if you join on a season ticket, at reasonable prices. Sailing and canoeing are also available through the sailing club and the Priory water sports association. The recently refurbished visitor centre is now a demonstration project for renewable and energy saving technologies that can be used at home. The centre is open seven days a week. The Rangers can be contacted here and it is also the home of the Wildlife trust for Bedfordshire. For further information on the Priory Country Park visit www.priorycountrypark.co.uk or e-mail:prioryrangers@bedford.gov.uk alternatively, phone 01234 211182

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IF YOU COME DOWN TO RUSSELL PARK…

YOU’LL SURE HAVE A BIG SURPRISE! A Teddy Bears picnic will take place in Russell Park on Tuesday 5th June from 12.30pm – 2.30pm and everyone is invited. There is no need to book a place. Families can just turn up on the day with their teddy and a spot of lunch. The event will also host a competition in which people can guess the name of the teddy to win a prize, and each and every participant will receive their very own ‘I’ve been to Russell Park’s Teddy Bear Picnic 2012’ certificate, as a keepsake. Cllr Doug McMurdo, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture at Bedford Borough Council, said: “This is a magical tradition that proves so popular with children… and adults! Many grown-ups can cast their minds back to when they attended a teddy bears picnic as a child and often have very fond memories of the imaginative outdoor experience.” Also going on in Russell Park on the day will

be an ‘It’s a Knockout’ event, along with the hugely popular International Kite Festival, and Diamond Jubilee Celebrations – all guaranteed to add to the fun atmosphere! For more information on Bedford’s summer events go to www.bedfordevents.co.uk

Top That Sugar Craft BEDFORDSHIRE’S

NEWEST

CAKE CRAFT SHOP

For all your needs in decorating celebration cakes, Cupcakes etc. Ribbons • Patchwork Cutters • Karen Davis Moulds ABC Moulds • PME • Flower Paste • Stand Hire Tin Hire • Books etc… With friendly help and advice. Celebration & Wedding cakes made to order Based at Seddington Nursery, A1 Northbound between Biggleswade/Sandy SG19 1NZ Tel:

01767 680 983

Open 9.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m EVENING APPOINTMENTS BY ARRANGEMENT.

••• MORE SUGAR CRAFT CLASSES COMING SOON ••• 16

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Smile Brightly

It’s like sunshine after all the rain!

Professional Tooth Whitening

Only £175* No More Frowns! Summer is almost here!

FREE

Cosmetic Evaluations* Professional Anti Wrinkle treatments - from only £250*

FREE

Dental Implant & Smile Makeover Consultations*

Contact Victoria Place Dental Practice today!

01767 313896

victoriaplacedental@gmail.com Strictly one offer per person. OFFERS EXPIRE August 1ST 2012. *Present this ad for a no obligation, FREE CONSULT with Dr Raj Ahlowalia. Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.victoriaplacedental.com for full details.

3 Victoria Place, Biggleswade, Beds SG18 9RN victoriaplacedental.com To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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LOVE TO DANCE

AT BIDDENHAM, CARDINGTON & RENHOLD Love to Dance classes for the over 50s are run by Yvette Nowlan, a professional dancer and qualified fitness instructor. Classes currently run in two rural locations, with a third starting this month in Renhold. The daytime sessions are two hours long with a break midway for complimentary tea/ coffee. At Love to Dance a variety of dance styles are taught, giving participants the opportunity to sample a new genre every fortnight in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. All routines are choreographed by Yvette bespoke for the Love to Dance sessions. So far this year dancers have experienced; Modern Jazz, Bachata, Ceilidh, Hand Jive, 70’s Disco, Fandango and more. The coming weeks see further exciting styles such as Line dance, Mambo and even traditional Kurdish dance! Because of the way the pay-as-you-go classes are run participants can attend as and when they are able, without feeling ‘behind’ the rest of the group. On the second week of a style a full recap of the choreography is done before

continuing further. For more information visit www.lovetodance.info “Yvette’s boundless joy and energy heals our ‘knocks and dents’ of life, both mentally and physically. The Love to Dance classes have eased pains in my muscles and joints and put a spring back in my step.” –Teresa “It keeps me flexible plus helps my osteoporosis and very importantly is relaxing and fun; lots of laughter – the best medicine! It’s also a chance to express myself through dance while exercising the brain learning the steps.” – Madeleine

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RHYTHM FESTIVALS 2012 RHYTHM FESTIVAL • RHYTHM FOLK • RHYTHM & BLUES AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND – FRIDAY 24 to SUNDAY 26 Mansion House @ Old Warden Park, Bedfordshire, SG18 9DX 3 Great Music Festivals for the Price of One

HAWKWIND | THE

FRIDAY

SLACKERS | THE BEAT

EDDIE & THE HOT RODS • 3 BONZOS & A PIANO • MEN THEY COULDN’T HANG + more SATURDAY

BOOKER T | THE DAMNED | ARDAL O’HANLON DENNIS ALCAPONE | KING MOB HANK WANGFORD & THE LOST COWBOYS • CAPTAIN SENSIBLE BAND • THE GROUNDHOGS • HERE & NOW • THE MAGIC TOMBOLINOS • LEATHERAT + more SUNDAY

KEN BOOTHE | JOHN COOPER CLARKE | CRAZY WORLD OF ARTHUR BROWN | DAVID RODIGAN BOOMTOWN RATS • JOHN OTWAY BIG BAND • DELROY WILLIAMS & THE JUNCTION BAND • ATILLA THE STOCKBROKER • KING HAMMOND + more FRIDAY

FRIDAY

JAMIE SMITH’S MABON • LUCY WARD SATURDAY

BUICK 6 • MITCH LADDIE BAND JERRY TREMAINE & THE RISING SONS SATURDAY

PEATBOG FAERIES

DAVID KNOPFLER THE TRAVELLING BAND IAN MCMILLAN ORCHESTRA RICHARD DIGANCE • WISHING WELL SUNDAY

SHOW OF HANDS featuring MIRANDA SYKES

LAU• SCOTT MATTHEWS MOULETTES • KATRIONA GILMORE & JAMIE ROBERTS + more every day!

THE BLUES BAND BIG BOY BLOATER

DAVE KELLY • CHANTEL McGREGOR ROADHOUSE • LUCY ZIRINS SUNDAY

OLI BROWN BAND HAT FITZ & CARA

RHYTHM & BLUES

RHYTHM FOLK

ACOUSTIC STRAWBS WILKO JOHNSON JIM MORAY & BAND GENO WASHINGTON

MICHAEL MESSER 2nd MIND BAND CROSSTOWN LIGHTNIN • CHERRY LEE MEWIS • more every day!

3 festivals offering 3 days of great entertainment on 6 stages plus “fringe” events. Comedy. Theatre. Madam Miaow’s Culture Lounge. Children’s Entertainment, including Panic Circus, Organised Football & Junior Olympics. Hemlock Morris. Groovy Movie Picture House. DJ Wheelie-Bag. Real Ales & Ciders. A Wide Choice of Superior Food plus Farmhouse Ice Cream. General Store. Markets. Supervised Campsites. Luxury Loos. Hot Showers. Free Car Parking. Further details and tickets from:

www.rhythmfestival.com

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in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

23 11/05/2012 08:12

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF...

THE QUEEN

The Queen has many different duties to perform every day. Some are public duties, such as ceremonies, receptions and visits within the United Kingdom or abroad. Other duties are carried out away from the cameras, but they are no less important. These include reading letters from the public, official papers and briefing notes; audiences with political ministers or ambassadors; and meetings with her Private Secretaries to discuss daily business and her future diary plans. Even when she is away from London, in residence at Balmoral or Sandringham, she receives official papers nearly every day of every year and remains fully briefed on matters affecting her realms. The Queen’s working day begins like many people’s - at her desk. After scanning the daily British newspapers, The Queen reviews her correspondence. Every day, 200300 (and sometimes many more) letters from the public arrive. The Queen chooses a selection to read herself and tells members of her staff how she would like them to be answered. This enables Her Majesty personally to see a typical cross-section of her daily correspondence. Virtually every letter is answered by staff in her Private Secretary’s office or by a lady-in-waiting. The Queen will then see, separately, two of her Private Secretaries with the daily quota of official papers and documents. This process takes upwards of an hour. Every day of every year, wherever she is, The Queen receives from government ministers, and from her representatives in the Commonwealth and foreign countries, information in the form of policy papers, Cabinet documents, telegrams, letters and

other State papers. These are sent up to her by the Private Secretaries in the famous ‘red boxes’. All of these papers have to be read and, where necessary, approved and signed. A series of official meetings or ‘audiences’ will often follow. The Queen will see a number of important people. These include overseas ambassadors and high commissioners, newly appointed British ambassadors, senior members of the British and Commonwealth Armed Forces on their appointment and retirement, and English bishops and judges on their appointment. Each meeting usually lasts 10 to 20 minutes, and usually The Queen and her visitor meet alone. The Queen may also meet a number of people who have won prizes or awards in a variety of fields such as literature or science, to present them individually with their prize. If there is an Investiture - a ceremony for the presentation of honours and decorations - it begins at 11.00am and lasts just over an hour. The Queen usually meets around 100 people at each Investiture to present Orders, decorations and medals. The Queen will often lunch privately. Every few months, she and The Duke of Edinburgh will invite a dozen guests from a wide variety of backgrounds to an informal lunch. Occasionally, the guest list may consist of far fewer people, such as a newly appointed or retiring Governor-General and their guest. If The Queen is spending the morning on engagements away from her desk and other commitments, she will visit up to three venues before lunch, either alone or jointly with The Duke of Edinburgh. On a regional visit, The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh lunch with a wide variety of people in places ranging from town halls to hospitals. In the afternoons, The Queen often goes out on public engagements. Such visits require meticulous planning beforehand to meet the hosts’ requirements. And The Queen prepares for each visit by briefing herself on whom she will be meeting and what she will be seeing and doing. Royal engagements are carefully selected by The Queen from a large number of invitations sent to her each year, often by the Lord-Lieutenants (The Queen’s representatives in counties throughout the United Kingdom). This helps to ensure the widest possible spread and to make effective use of The Queen’s time.

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If the engagement is outside London, her journeys are often by air using a helicopter or an RAF aircraft. The Queen carries out around 430 engagements (including audiences) a year, to meet people, open events and buildings, unveil plaques and make speeches. Such engagements can include visits to schools, hospitals, factories, military units, art galleries, sheltered accommodation for elderly people, hostels for the homeless, local community schemes in inner city areas, and other British and Commonwealth organisations. The Queen regularly goes out for the whole day to a particular region or city. If the visit is a busy one, or if it lasts more than a day, then The Queen will travel overnight on the Royal Train. The Duke of Edinburgh will often accompany The Queen on such visits; when this happens, they will carry out some engagements jointly and others separately to ensure that the maximum number of people and organisations can be visited. The Queen may end the afternoon seeing a number of Government ministers in a meeting of the Privy Council. The Queen’s working day does not stop at the end of the afternoon. Early evening may see a meeting with the Prime Minister. The Queen has a weekly meeting alone with the Prime Minister, when they are both in London (in addition to other meetings throughout the year). This usually takes place on Wednesdays at 6.30 pm. No written record is made of such meetings; neither The Queen nor the Prime Minister talk about what is discussed between them, as communications between The Queen and the Prime Minister always remains confidential. At about 7.30 pm a report of the day’s parliamentary proceedings, written by one of the Government’s Whips, arrives. The Queen always reads this the

same evening. On some evenings, The Queen may attend a film première, a variety of concert performances in aid of a charitable cause, or a reception linked to organisations of which she is Patron. The Queen also regularly hosts official receptions at Buckingham Palace (usually with other members of the Royal Family), such as those for the Diplomatic Corps and The Queen’s Award for Industry. Her Majesty may also hold receptions ahead of overseas visits. In 2007, prior to attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Uganda, The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh gave a reception at Buckingham Palace for Commonwealth Africans living and working in the United Kingdom. Other receptions mark the work of particular groups in the community, such as those recently given for members of the British design and music worlds. The Queen has numerous private interests, which can coincide with her public work, to complete her working day. Her Majesty also attends the Derby and the Summer Race Meeting at Ascot, a Royal occasion. As a keen owner and breeder of racehorses, she often sees her horses run at other meetings. As owner of private estates at Balmoral and Sandringham, The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh oversee the management of the estates which are run on a commercial basis. She takes a close interest in all aspects of estate life, particularly in the tenant farmers and employees who live and work on the estates. Through her public and private work, The Queen is well-briefed and well-known. She has met many more people from all walks of life both in this country and overseas than her predecessors. This takes time and effort. Often, one of the last lights on in the Palace at night is The Queen finishing her ‘red box’ of official papers.

THE QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE MESSAGE

Today, as I mark 60 years as your Queen, I am writing to thank you for the wonderful support and encouragement that you have given to me and Prince Philip over these years and to tell you how deeply moved we have been to receive so many kind messages about the Diamond Jubilee. In this special year, as I dedicate myself anew to your service, I hope we will all be reminded of the power of togetherness and the convening strength of family, friendship and good neighbourliness, examples of which I have been fortunate to see throughout my reign and which my family and I look forward to seeing in many forms as we travel throughout the United Kingdom and the wider Commonwealth. I hope also that this Jubilee year will be a time to give thanks for the great advances that have been made since 1952 and to look forward to the future with clear head and warm heart as we join together in our celebrations. I send my sincere good wishes to you all. ELIZABETH R. To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

Lawns

by pippa greenwood A lawn is an essential part of most gardens, but how can you make sure yours looks good? Feeding a lawn is essential to ensure it looks lush and green. A poorly maintained and inadequately fed lawn is far more likely to be invaded by moss, weeds and is prone to disease. Choose a lawn fertilizer formulated for the specific needs of the grass at this time of year; nitrogen is constantly being removed by mowing so it needs to be replaced. Phosphorus, potassium and iron also help to promote and maintain top quality growth. The precise amount of fertilizer that your lawn requires is determined by soil type, frequency of irrigation or rainfall, frequency of mowing and whether clippings are left on the lawn. If you’re happy using chemicals on a weed problem, it’s easiest to use a product containing both weed killers and a fertilizer. Applying these together ensures rapid grass growth to fill in the gaps left by the dead weeds. If you have time, there is a marginally better effect if you feed the lawn with the spring feed then wait two weeks before applying the weed killer. Small infestations of weeds can be removed effectively by hand. A proprietary moss killer should take care of moss, but follow the instructions carefully to ensure that they have been thoroughly killed before you attempt to rake them out. If living moss is raked out the problem becomes worse. Once you have raked the dead moss out, the overall effect of all the bare patches may make you despair, but if you keep the lawn well fed (and over-seed if necessary) it will soon green up. Regular mowing is essential. A lawn left for too long will soon lose its good appearance and when

finally cut, you may wonder if it will ever look right again. If cut frequently, so that only small amounts of grass are removed at any one time, it should grow dense and green - try to remove up to 30% of the grass growth at a single mowing. When the weather starts to warm up, the frequency of cut will be noticeably greater. However, if the weather is dry and the lawn isn’t well watered, growth rate will be correspondingly slow. If the grass is to be well walked on or used as a playing surface then the cut should be kept to ¾-1 inch. If you want a show lawn that isn’t subjected to pounding feet, then keep the grass to ¼ inch but remember that during summer you will need to use the mower several times a week! What about mowers? The one you choose will probably be determined by cost as well as the job it can do. If you have a level, fairly highquality lawn then a cylinder mower is best. If the surface of your lawn is the slightest bit uneven, then a rotary mower is a better choice as it will cope much better in ‘adverse’ situations. If you remove a fair amount of grass at each cut then the clippings should be raked up immediately. However, if you produce only tiny clippings then during dry weather you can leave them on the lawn to help conserve soil moisture. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood. com and sign up for her newsletter and shop from the products area for a great selection of signed copies of Pippa’s books, Pippa’s favourite hoe, Grower Frames, raised bed kits, delightful terracotta herb planters and wall plaques, recycled metal sculptures, biological controls and lots, lots more!

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GILKS FENCING LTD Supplying of all types of gates and fencing to trade and public. •Maintenance free •Environmentally friendly •Stronger and lighter than concrete posts •Unique natural wood-grain finish •Dual faced fencing posts and gravel boards •Will not rot, crack, chip or split We are looking for show gardens to promote this exciting new product. Excellent prices for the first few selected. Interested? Call us.

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Tree & Shrub Fertilisation

It is now widely appreciated that trees require certain essential nutrients to function and grow. A nutrient is an element that is involved in the metabolism of a tree, or necessary for a tree to complete its life cycle. For trees growing on a forest site, these nutrients are normally present in sufficient quantities in the soil. Landscape trees or urban trees, however, may be growing in soils that do not contain sufficient available nutrients for satisfactory growth and development. Tree fertilisation can increase growth, reduce susceptibility to certain diseases and insects, and under certain circumstances, help reverse declining health. Common objectives of fertilisation include: 1) Overcome a visible nutrient deficiency. 2) Eliminate a deficiency not obviously visible that was detected through soil or foliar analysis. 3) Increase tree growth, flowering, or fruiting. 4) Increase the vitality of the tree. 5) Reduce potential injury from disease or insect infestation. Laboratory analyses of the soil nutrient concentration - This will ensure that only the correct nutrients are applied to correct the deficiency. By adding only the nutrients required, excess nutrients will not be added to the environment. The process of conducting analyses, setting plant health goals, and selecting a fertiliser to achieve this goal is called Prescription Fertilisation. Prescription fertilisation is a system unique to Bartlett Tree Experts 1. A range of soil samples are collected 2. The soil samples are analysed under laboratory conditions. 3. Once the soils analysis is complete the Laboratories develops a prescription based on the plant species, soil type, goals, and nutrient and pH levels. For more advice visit: www.bartlett.com or contact Bartlett Tree Experts on 01234 354 673 Bartlett Tree Experts will also be exhibiting at the Milton Keynes Garden Show 5th -7th May 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Come and visit us on our stand. Visit us on Facebook at Bartlett Tree Experts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bedford UK

Bartlett Tree Experts A Complete and Comprehensive Tree Careand Service since 1907 A Complete Comprehensive Tree Care Service Since 1907 For over 100 years, Bartlett Tree Experts has led both the science and services that make your landscape thrive. No matter the size or scope of your needs, our arborists bring a rare mix of groundbreaking research, global resources and a local service approach to every task at hand. Trees add so much value to our lives; Bartlett adds even more value to your trees.

Tree & Shrub Pruning | Planting | Tree Removal Hedge Cutting | Stump Grinding Woodland Management | Disease & Inseact Control For a free quote please contact your local arborist Tim Brown

01234 354 673 bedford@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

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Wood Green Open 7 days a week 10.00am – 4.00pm FrEE entry

Dogs- A Child’s Best Friend Workshop Wednesday 6th June 10.30am – 12.30pm £5 per person

Great for all the family, pre booking essential

Animal Fun Day Sunday 24th June 10.00am – 4.00pm £2 adults

A great family day, enjoying have-a-go dog agility, pet toy making, novelty dog shows, bouncy castle, shopping opportunities and much more, dogs welcome

Check out our website for more information Call: 0844 248 8181 Visit: www.woodgreen.org.uk Or Email: info@woodgreen.org.uk

King’s Bush Farm, London Road, Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire, PE29 2NH Wood Green, The Animals Charity is the registered Trademark of Wood Green Animal Shelters, registered Charity No. 298348.

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SEASONAL DELIGHTS

Pan-fried mackerel with spring veg Serves 2 Prep time 15 minutes Cooking time 15 minutes

Ingredients 25g butter 1 banana shallot, peeled and sliced 1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed 400g mixed fresh vegetables like broad beans, carrots, peas, spring greens, broccoli 100ml stock

Juice and zest of 1/2 lemon Sea salt and freshly ground pepper 150g creme fraiche 3-4 sprigs dill, roughly chopped 1/2 tbsp olive oil 2 large mackerel fillets

Method

1. Heat the butter in a sautĂŠ pan or deep frying pan. Gently cook the shallot for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften and becomes translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another couple of minutes. 2. Add the vegetable mix, cutting anything large like carrots, to match the size of the other vegetables. Stir for a minute or so, pour in the stock and lemon juice and add the zest. Season, then cover and cook for 5 minutes. 3. Spoon in the creme fraiche and dill and cook for another 3-4 minutes. 4 Heat another frying pan with the olive oil. Slice the mackerel fillet in half lengthways, taking out any bones you may find. Season the fish then pan-fry for 2 minutes on each side. 5. Serve the mackerel on a bed of the vegetables with plenty of lemon wedges and some new potatoes.

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all carpets and vinyls with this advert To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122

Teenage drinking

by Pippa Duncan

Binge drinking in teenagers is a serious problem in the UK. How can you help your teen become aware of the dangers? The good news is that the number of teenagers drinking underage is actually on the decline in the UK. The bad news is that those who are drinking are doing it more often - and to excess, such that it is a real problem. Binge drinking is usually defined as consuming four drinks in a row for women, or five in a row for men, at least once in the previous two weeks. We have one of the highest levels of teenage drinking in Europe, with the largest increase being seen among 14-year-olds. While it’s not good for a 14-year-old to be drinking anywhere near this level, how much the alcohol affects them will also depend on their body size and shape, plus what stage of puberty they’ve reached. Tell-tale signs Look out for changes in behaviour that you think just aren’t the ‘norm’ for your child. Are they

finding it harder to concentrate on homework or are they sleeping a lot more during the day? Has their attitude changed towards you and do they resent any sort of questioning about how much they are drinking? Are they staying with friends more than before to try to hide from you what they are doing? Have you noticed symptoms of excessive drinking such as vomiting and shakiness? Talking to your teen Your teen may be binge drinking because they think it will make them feel good - or look good in front of their friends, or they may be using it as a way to relieve stress, or to appear older than they are. Talk to your teen before the problem becomes too serious. Chatting in front of a TV programme where alcohol is featured is a good way to have a more relaxed conversation. Family meal times are a good way to open up discussion and they may talk more freely. Ask what they’ve learned about alcohol and drug issues at school. Remind them that they don’t have to drink to excess to fit in. Children learn from example, so if your child regularly sees you drinking too much, they will see this as acceptable. If you think the problem is getting out of hand, then talk to their school and consult your GP for advice on obtaining professional help. The effects We tend to think that drinking is less of an issue than drugs, but it leads to many problems. It can cause a lack of concentration, so your child may begin to fail in school. Your child could suffer from alcohol poisoning, which can be life threatening. It affects the body’s involuntary reflexes, such as breathing and the gag reflex. It leads to drink driving and makes your teen less likely to practice safe sex as well as causing antisocial behaviour - your child will be doing things they wouldn’t do under normal circumstances. The three leading causes of death for 15-24-yearolds are car accidents, murder and suicide - and alcohol is a leading factor in all three. In fact, more than 5,000 deaths every year of people under the age 21 are linked to underage drinking. So don’t wait for the problem to get worse, start talking to your teen now.

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what’S ON?

IN MAY

1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 June Roxton Tots Playgroup 9.30-11.30am Roxton Village Hall First session free, £2 thereafter For everyone with little kids and mums to be. Toys, books, craft table, painting table, climbing toys, baby area, ride on toys, songtime and Magic Carpet Ride. Tel: Andy 07795 431766 or Delphine 07792 320965 5 June Bug-ingham Palace! 11am-3pm RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy A hands-on event for youngsters. We’ll be building a bug hotel throughout the day to make a great home for lots of insects, which will help provide natural food for the birds at The Lodge. We’ll be christening it ‘Bug-ingham Palace’ in celebration of the Queen’s Jubilee. Pop in any time between 11am-3 pm and add a piece to the palace! You can either bring your own materials, or use ours. Parking charges apply to non-RSPB members £4 per vehicle. Tel: 01767 680541 Web: www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge 6 June Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Afternoon Party Blunham Village Hall Adults £5, Child up to 14 years £3, Family (2+2) £12 It will include party food, entertainment and a time for those of us who can remember, to chat and reflect about what we were doing 60 years ago. Come along for an enjoyable and relaxing fun filled afternoon. Persons of all ages welcome. Tel: Lindsay Rose 01767 640707 8 June Mini Beast Safari 2pm-4pm RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy Adults free, Children £4m Kids love finding creepy crawlies. Join us to go out and discover the fascinating bugs, beetles and mini beasts that live on the reserve. Booking essential. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Parking charges apply to non-RSPB members £4 per vehicle. Tel: 01767 680541 Web: www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge

Entries into our What’s On sections are free. If you have an event you would like us to publicise please email the details to whatson@villagermag.com 16 June All Saints Church Fete 12 30-4pm Village Hall and Playing Fields, Cople Entry by programme £1 Grand Draw £100 first prize. Novelty Dog Show, side shows, stalls and tombola. Tel: Mike Vacher 01234 831207 23 & 24 June Weekend Canoe Slalom Event Cardington Slalom Course, Priory Country Park (East Entrance) Free entrance to spectators Each day is a separate race, involving a practice run and two timed runs down the course for each competitor. Canoeists will be on the course throughout the day and racing will be from 11am Saturday and noon on Sunday. Final details and timings will be available at www.vikingkayak. co.uk. Refreshments available. 24 June Summer Fete 1-5pm Moggerhanger Park, Moggerhanger In conjunction with Moggerhanger Park, Carers in Bedfordshire Annual Summer Fete to coincide with Carers Week. Including live choir, raffle, arts and craft stalls, pampering, face painting, car wash, bouncy castle, emergency service vehicles and a whole lot more! For further information or raffle tickets please call 0300 111 1919 24 June Harrold Open Gardens 1.30-5.00pm Harrold Village Green Adults £3, Concessions £2.50, Under 12s free, 12-18 years £1 Organised by Churches Together in Harrold and Carlton. Proceeds to local charities. Programmes, Cream teas, Plant sales and Raffle. Free car park (follow the signs).

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27 June Organ Concert 8-10.30pm Members £4, Non-Members £5. Pay at door. Addison Centre, Kempston, Bedford Bedford Organ & Keyboard Club presents versatile Organist Phil Brown. Tel: 01234 344423 Web: www.organfax/clubs/bedford/html 30 June BMI The Manor Hospital Summer Fete 2pm-4.30pm Free Entry The Manor Hospital, Church End, Biddenham Activities for children and families, with entertainment from a Brass Band and Irish Dancers, all washed down with a yummy English cream tea. All funds raised in aid of East of England Air Ambulance. 30 June Moth Night 9.30pm-midnight RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy Adults £4, RSPB Members £3, Children £2 Get close- up views of some amazing moths as we set our light traps and then inspect the catch. This event is run with Bedfordshire’s County moth recorders. Booking and payment in advance essential. Tel: 01767 680541 Web: www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge 8 July Summer Concert Gates open 1.30pm, concert 3pm Moggerhanger Park, Moggerhanger Adults £6, Concessions £4, Family £15 East Beds Concert Band summer concert which will feature some well-known TV and film music, and there’ll be something for everyone from Thunderbirds to the Pirates of the Caribbean. This year, East Beds Concert Band will be performing the wind band world premiere of “When the dancers depart” by Roger Nichols, specially arranged for the band. Please bring a picnic, and rugs or chairs and to sit in the fabulous grounds whilst enjoying a wide selection of music. Alternatively you can enjoy food from the refreshment tents, and fantastic home-made ice-cream from Mr and Mrs Maynards.

Business gone slow? Let us help!

Advertising in The Villager is easy. To find out more call Christa on 07868 369257 or email christa@villagermag.com 39

Members of

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Plumbing and Heating Engineer Ltd • Mechanical Services • Oil, Gas & Solid Fuel • Central Heating • General Plumbing • Leadwork Specialists T. 01462 731896/733364 F: 01462 835588 E: info@gaphe.co.uk The Old Stables Station Road, Arlesey Beds SG15 6RG

D&M PROPERTY SOLUTION

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Full home rewires Fuseboard upgrades Additional sockets and lighting, Cookers and fans Heating and fire alarms Security systems Outside sockets and lights and out-building supply

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renewable solutions

The ever rising cost of gas and oil is not a welcome sight on our doormat, but the ever rising sun in the morning is! With government incentives for consumers to install and use solar power systems, and the growing concerns on our environment, Solar PV systems are now more economically attractive than ever before. A major benefit of placing your PV panel requirements with us, is that we employ our own experienced technicians to fit the panels on the roof, or other structure. For any challenging installations we have our own fully accredited scaffolding and roofing companies, to ensure your roof “is in safe hands”. To find out more about Solar PV Panels, solar energy, and to book a free site visit/quotation from our Solar Advisor, please call us

Installations before 31 March 2012 are set to the 43.3p tariff index linked for 25 years Generate savings now!

01767 680912 www.bsgsolar.co.uk

OVL Magazine full page ad.indd 1

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09/08/2011 08:41:55

The Villager Prize Crossword 1st Prize £25 Name:

Last Month’s Crossword Winners Congratulations to: 1st - Mr. P Monks from Camborne 2nd Mrs. S White from Tetworth near Sandy

Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before 20th June 2012 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

2nd Prize £15

Tel:

Address:

Across 1 Written announcement (6) 4 Film regulator (6) 9 Fan (7) 10 Subject (5) 11 Type of hat (5) 12 Closest to (7) 13 Sound transmitters (11) 18 Ruler (7) 20 Edition (5) 22 Tale (5) 23 Easily seen (7) 24 Lower down (6) 25 Helpful (6) Down 1 Close to (6) 2 Stopwatch (5) 3 Custodian of museum (7) 5 Surplus (5) 6 Most important (7) 7 Repeat aloud (6) 8 Carried along (11) 14 Make better (7) 15 Beginnings (7) 16 Stopped (6) 17 Relating to teeth (6) 19 Type of poem (5) 21 Horizontal board (5)

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Qualified professional engineer 25 years experience I specialise in solving your plumbing problems Tap washers to boilers All work guaranteed No job too small Your local recommended engineer

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WIMBLEDON CHAMPIONSHIPS

by Leon F. Jones

The Wimbledon Open Championships take place in June, commencing six weeks before the first Monday in August. The first event was staged in 1877 by the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club to raise funds for a new grass roller. It attracted 22 participants and was won by 27-year-old W. Spenser Gore who received 12 guineas. In 1884, Ladies Singles and Men’s Doubles were introduced. Britain dominated the first 30 years, with the Renshaw twins winning 13 titles from 1881-1889. In 1905, the American May Sutton won the Ladies title. In 1907 Norman Brookes of Australia became the first overseas Men’s champion. The 1920s were dominated by France with the outrageous Suzanne Lenglen (skirt just below the knee!) winning 5 successive titles from 1919, and the ‘Four Muskateers’ of Rene Lacoste, Jean Borotra, Henri Cochet and Jacques Brugnon winning 6 Singles and 5 Doubles. Britain resurged in the 1930s with Fred Perry securing a hat-trick from 1934-36 and Dorothy Round winning

in 1934 for a British double. The U.S. then held the Women’s Singles title from 1938-1958 with Althea Gibson becoming the first black champion in 1957. From 1956-1971, the Australians made Centre Court their own. The first professional Championships were held in 1968 and this era has been dominated by 5 players - Bjorn Borg (5 successive singles), Pete Sampras (7 singles), Martina Navratilova (9 singles, 10 doubles), Steffi Graf (7 singles) and Roger Federer (6 singles). The 2012 tournament promises to be as exciting as any. Perhaps Andy Murray can end the 70+ year wait for a British champion? Only time, and the special magic that is Wimbledon, will tell!

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BEAVER SHEDS AJ Scutchings and Son Cast Iron and Aluminium Guttering Lead Roofing and Roofing repairs Specialists for listed and period properties

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Tips for Eating Al Fresco

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti There’s nothing quite like eating outside to evoke that happy, carefree holiday mood, but with British weather so unpredictable we need to grab the opportunity when we can. Here are our five top tips for making sure you are ready to go ‘al fresco’! • Check you have all the necessary equipment to hand. Stock up on charcoal and make sure the barbecue is in good condition and clean. • Invest in a proper picnic blanket with waterproof backing if you like sitting on the ground. Even grass that appears dry can create an uncomfortable damp patch, or leave an unsightly stain that may be difficult to remove. • Use plastic cups and crockery. Choose disposable ones if you want a really easy life, but reusable ones will ultimately save you money and are more eco-friendly. • Make sure your hands and utensils are thoroughly clean before cooking or serving food. If you are away from home, take along wet wipes or anti-bacterial hand-wash.

THOMAS SMITH & SON Property Maintenance

Specialist in uPVC Soffits, Fascias, Guttering & Cladding:

• Thoroughly cook food that is to be barbecued and keep picnic food cool in a cool box or bag. Avoid food that will melt or spoil easily, like chocolate or bananas. In addition, remember to sit in the shade if the weather is hot, and always slather on sunprotection. So there you have it: the perfect recipe for a funfilled outdoor dining experience. Bon appétit!

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