VILLAGER The
and Town
Issue 58 - February 2014
Life
LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS
Inside this issue
Free Advice & Support for Local Businesses
Banish
those winter blues
Win £25
in our Prize Crossword
Bringing Local Business to Local People
Buckden, Brampton, Cambourne, Godmanchester, The Hemingfords and all surrounding villages every month
ur Yo EE FRcopy
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Contents High Street Gossip
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High Street Gossip a Century Ago.....................................4 Wildlife Wanderings.........................................................6 Knowing When to go to Court!.........................................8 Free Advice and Support for Local Business....................10 Banish Those Winter Blues.............................................12 EAAA Gets Lift Off...........................................................14 Valentine’s All Year Round..............................................17 All Change......................................................................18 A Touch of Frost - with Raynaud’s Finger........................21 Aspirations Coaching......................................................23 Fun Quiz.........................................................................25 Valentine’s Day Proposals...............................................27 Lasting Powers of Attorney............................................28 Your Future is Important................................................31 Kimbolton School Swimming Pool.................................32
VILLAGER The
and Town
Issue 58 - February 2014
Life
LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS
Inside this issue
Free Advice & Support for Local Businesses
Banish
those winter blue
Win £25
in our Prize Crossword
Bringing Local Business to Local People
Buckden, Brampton, Cambourne, Godmanchester, The Hemingfords and all surrounding villages every month
ur Yo EE FRcopy
Tree and Shrub Inspection..............................................35 In the Garden.................................................................36 Animal Heroes................................................................38 Children’s Page...............................................................41 Kia Ray EV......................................................................42 Park It!...........................................................................44 Seasonal Delights...........................................................47 Puzzle Page....................................................................48 The Wildlife Trust............................................................51 The Cinnamon Trust........................................................52 Prize Crossword..............................................................54 What’s On.......................................................................58 Book Review..................................................................63 Classifieds......................................................................63
Valentine’s Day Proposals
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16,000 copies delivered free of charge in the following areas: Hinchingbrooke, Hinchingbrooke Park, Brampton, Buckden, Offord Cluny, Offord D’arcy, Godmanchester, Hemingford Abbots and Hemingford Grey, Cambourne, Chawston, Croxton, Duloe, Graveley, Great Paxton, Hail Weston, Honeydon, Little Barford, Little Paxton, Roxton, Southoe, Staploe, Tempsford, Toseland, Upper Staploe, Wintringham, Wyboston, Yelling. (Further bulk drops are made to local shops and busineses in Huntingdon, St Neots, Eaton Ford, Eaton Socon and Eynesbury)
Editorial - Peter Ibbett, Christine Donnelly, Jonathan Vernon-Smith, Alison Runman, Jasmine Birtles, Maria White, Fiona McLeman, Leeds Day Solicitors, Tony Larkins, Bartlett Trees, Gareth Arscott, James Baggott, Debbie Singh-Bhatti and Bruce Edwards Advertising Sales - Christa Hallam - 07868 369257 christa@villagermag.com Photography - msheldrake 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 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.
History
High Street Gossip a Century Ago
By Peter Ibbett
A century ago High Streets around the country were alive with activity, unaware that later in the year the outbreak of the ‘Great War’ would engulf daily life and leave no person untouched. My grandparents, in their teenage years, would have known the St Neot’s scene captured on a card posted in 1912. Observant readers will spot a Boy Scout and will therefore deduce that the photograph cannot be older than 1909! Those of a thirsty nature will note the Golden Ball public house in its plaster covered timber framed building, now rebuilt in modern brick. Its chimneys remind us of smoky sulphur tinged air from multiple coal fires and the street gas lamp that energy was produced locally, rather than from Siberia or Arabia! Dominating the scene is the tall cupola of the Corn Exchange which had been built by public subscription in the 1870’s. At the turn of the century the Corn Exchange Company was in trouble with share values of £10 declining to only 2s 6d causing the sale of the building in 1915 to Mr James, landlord of the Half Moon Hotel, who reopened it as a cinema. Apart from local gossip, national issues such as the increasing number of strikes; the real possibility of Civil War in Ireland over Home Rule; Lloyd-George’s proposals to raise taxes on the better off to pay for pensions for the poor, as well as the
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increased activities of militant suffragettes would have given the feeling that 1914 was to be a year for history to remember. Few, if any, in the photograph would have been worried about the potential for war with Germany. Our 1914 ancestors, treading carefully across the dusty gravel streets to avoid the horse manure, would have been concerned about every-day matters rather than events taking shape in a far off corner of Europe. If they were transported into 2014 what would they make of daily life in Cambridgeshire’s largest town? My grandfather could have been in the photograph and he had a clear opinion back in 1980. ‘Never let them tell you they were ‘Good Old Days’. They weren’t and I wouldn’t want to go back. But I miss the people.’ Do come and enjoy St. Neots. The folk of 1914 would be ‘all at sea’ with much of our times but they would feel at home on Market Day and with the cheerfulness of many shoppers!
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Travel
WILDLIFE WANDERINGS
By Christine Donnelly
As spring starts in southern Europe, those taking an early holiday can enjoy the flowers that appear soon after the end of the winter rains, when daylight increases and the weather improves. Although we are familiar with the daffodils growing in our gardens and parks, few people have seen wild daffodils growing in their natural habitat. In the Mediterranean area, some appear before Christmas and finish flowering before the heat of spring arrives.
Narcissus tazetta in Cyprus Wildlife Travel, based in Cambourne, runs trips to Cyprus each March to see the last of the year’s daffodils, the best of the orchids, and the start of the main season for the numerous aromatic shrubs that are characteristic of Mediterranean Europe. Rosemary, thyme and sage, used by us for cooking, grow amongst the colourful flowers of cistus and attractive herbaceous plants and bulbs including cyclamen, gladioli, irises and many wild members of the pea family. As with all of Wildlife Travel’s holidays, cultural highlights are included and, in Cyprus, visits are made to the Tombs of the Kings and the Paphos Mosaics.
Atlas Kasbah Hotel, Morocco Another early holiday is to southern Morocco, where desert plants, unusual trees, fascinating birds, a rich local culture and an attractive, small, family-run hotel
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combine to give a fascinating introduction to North Africa. In total contrast, a holiday at the end of the northern winter features a very different range of wildlife and, if it is in Iceland, a dramatic landscape and the bonus of the last of the Northern Lights.
‘Tree’ frog living in a bromeliad, Costa Rica For holidays to see some of the exciting mammals that live in the tropics, there is a choice between countries that have well-establish tourism, such as Costa Rica, and those that are just developing their tourist infrastructure, such as Guyana. If planned carefully, some wonderful accommodation can be found which gives a safe and comfortable base for excursions into some of the earth’s richest wildlife areas. There are plenty of other animals to be seen including frogs, lizards, crocodiles, butterflies and, in some areas, the otherwise elusive jaguar.
Locally, don’t miss the wonderful display by thousands of starlings just before dusk as they gather together to roost in the reedbeds that surround some of our local wetlands. For information on where to see local wildlife contact The Wildlife Trust on 01954 713500 or check www.wildlifebcn.org. For information on holidays contact Wildlife Travel 01954 713575 or check www.wildlife-travel.co.uk. Any profits from Wildlife Travel are donated to nature conservation through The Wildlife Trusts.
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VI FREE TA TIO N IN
THE 2014 CRUISE & TRAVEL SHOW Sunday 2 March 2014 10.00am to 3.00pm Wyboston Lakes Hotel (Executive Centre)
Join the experts from: 1st Class Holidays African Pride AmaWaterways Avalon Waterways Azamara Club Cruises Celebrity Cruises Cox & Kings Cruise & Maritime Voyages Crystal Cruises European Waterways Far Horizon Tours & Cruises Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Great Rail Journeys Hebridean Island Cruises Holland America Line Hurtigruten Indus Experiences
Intrepid Travel Lüftner Cruises Mekong River Cruises MSC Cruises Norwegian Cruise Line Oceania Cruises Regent Seven Seas Cruises Riviera Travel Royal Caribbean International Seabourn Silversea Star Clipper Swan Hellenic Travel Indochina Voyages to Antiquity Voyages of Discovery
Plus many more holiday companies offering inspirational holiday ideas
Meet Jane Archer, the UK’s leading cruise journalist Jane Archer is a Telegraph Travel columnist and one of Britain’s leading cruise experts. She spends much of the year at sea, uncovering the best and worst about cruise ships, big and small, low-cost and luxurious.
Exhibitor presentations throughout the day
FOR FREE ENTRY REGISTER ONLINE AT:
WWW.SELECTTRAVELGROUP.CO.UK/SHOW OR CALL: 01234 326758 To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122
7
Three Counties Radio
Knowing when to go to court! By Jonathan Vernon-Smith
Thankfully most consumer disputes can be settled through effective and firm dialogue. If not, there are programmes such as mine that offer additional assistance for people who are finding it difficult to resolve their consumer complaint. However, some cases just cannot be resolved, no matter how hard one or both parties try. It is for these cases that the small claims court can be very helpful. This month, I will outline how to use the small claims court system to obtain the best results. Firstly, DO NOT RUSH TO COURT. In my experience, judges often look unfavourably at customers who are seen to take a company to court too quickly. It makes the consumer look unreasonable which never bodes well. Therefore always try as hard as you can to resolve the complaint between yourselves first. Consider the small claims court your last resort and it is essential that you have kept a record of your conversations and correspondence. When you reach the conclusion that (within 6 years of the dispute and for amounts up to £10,000) the company or tradesman is not prepared to resolve the problem, you must write a letter of intention. Make it clear in the letter that you have tried hard to offer them opportunities to resolve the problem and that you would like to offer them one final opportunity. Allow them one month from receipt of the letter to respond, and make it clear that if you do not hear from them, you will lodge papers with the small claims court. Send the letter recorded delivery and ensure they have received it and signed for it. If they still show no interest in resolving the dispute, then you have an important decision to make. Will you go through with your threat of court action or not? If you decide on the former, you must go into it with your eyes open. You can always lose as well as win, however it may not cost you as much as you may think. The fee is dependent on how much you are suing for, but this will be outlined when you proceed with the action. If you are successful, the defendant will have to pay your costs as well as the amount you are claiming for. It is also worth noting that you do not need a lawyer to take someone to the small claims court. It’s relatively straight forward, and as long as you’ve been reasonable and sensible in your dealings with the company or tradesman, you stand a good chance of getting a favourable judgement. In many cases, mediation is offered as a way of agreeing a course of action. The result of this is not legally binding, and most often I would advise you to proceed with this where offered. It doesn’t prevent you progressing a case to a judge if unsuccessful. However, turning it down can made you look unreasonable. If things go your way, the judge will award in your favour and will request that the defendant pays you a sum of money (either the whole of the amount you’re seeking, or a proportion of it). They will be given instructions as to how to pay it, and if they fail to do so, you can instruct county court bailiffs to recover the money. You can also escalate the case to the high court for a further fee and instruct the high court enforcement officers to chase your money. Taking a company to court can be a daunting prospect, and I would always suggest obtaining advice from your local citizens advice bureau who will give you tailor-made advice on your specific case. Good luck!
Jonathan Vernon-Smith not only offers you his consumer advice here but you can listen to The JVS Show tackling your consumer problems every weekday morning from 9am. 8
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F
ORT P P U S D N A E C I V REE AD ESSES N I S U B L A C O L FOR
Small and medium sized businesses in Huntingdon, Godmanchester and Alconbury will soon be able to take advantage of free health and safety advice and training as the Estates Excellence Huntingdon project gathers pace. Local businesses such as Xaarjet Ltd, Ken Booth & Co and West Anglia Training Association have joined forces with the council’s Environmental Health team, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the Federation of Small Businesses and the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce to agree the way in which the project should be delivered. UK Power Networks, Huntingdonshire Regional College, Savills and Huntingdon Community Radio have also lent their support. In February the Estates Excellence team will make contact with almost 300 businesses in Huntingdon and Godmanchester and then specially trained visiting staff will help them to identify the free advice and training that will best meet their needs. The advisory visits will take no longer than an hour and the training will be delivered in the first two weeks of March; often right on the doorstep thanks to other businesses who have kindly offered the use of their facilities.
Carter, Principal Inspector with the HSE urges businesses to have an open mind: “This project is not about inspection but about support for business in difficult times so when the Estates Excellence visitor knocks on your door please don’t turn them away, they are there to help not to hinder”. Councillor Robin Howe is the Council’s Executive Member for Healthy and Active Communities and has also lent his support: “Health and safety laws are designed to protect employees in the workplace but this is a complex issue and some companies have not fully embraced or adopted the concept. The offer of free advice to Huntingdonshire businesses aims to help companies assess risks before they materialise and to help with the adoption of safe working practices; a very worthy and important initiative” If you would like to know more about the Estates Excellence project then please contact the project team by email at estates.excellence. huntingdon@hse.gsi.gov.uk Alternatively contact Paul Davies on 01234 220624 or Keith Lawson on 01480 388291
There’s a wide range of free training available with subjects such as fork truck safety, ladders and scaffolds, “protect your back” and risk assessments. Almost 100 businesses at Alconbury Weald will also be offered free training but won’t have the benefit of an advisory visit. Instead, Savills will be helping to spread the word to make sure that nobody misses out. It’s important that businesses take advantage of this unique opportunity and they can be assured that there aren’t any hidden costs. Paul
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Health and Beauty
Banish those Winter Blues
By Alison Runman
Often, you can cope with the start of winter. It may be dark, cold and wet, but the early months are full of celebrations to lift your spirits until the New Year and its ‘fresh start’. A few weeks later, your resolutions are in tatters. The days are still dark, meaning you drag yourself out of bed and then feel like the day is over by dinner time. You may be just fed up, but you could be suffering from ‘Winter Blues’. So here’s how to survive the winter. Let There Be Light! Lack of sunlight can increase melatonin levels (making you sleepy and lethargic) and reduce serotonin levels (affecting mood and appetite). It’s also thought to influence your ‘body clock’ (your circadian rhythm that controls body functions). So spend time outside. When indoors, try to work or relax near a window. A sunrise clock may help you wake up; they aim to bring your body out of sleep gently, by gradually increasing the light they emit. Stay Warm If your body is fighting to keep you warm, you’ll feel sluggish and struggle to concentrate. Keep yourself as warm as possible; wear layers and heat your home adequately. What about spending time somewhere else warm and cosy - a pub or library? Eat and Drink Healthily Warm, stodgy food and extra tea and coffee seem tempting when we’re chilly and low, but resist – think hot but
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healthy. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables of different colours and choose low sugar, low fat alternatives to stodgy puddings. Healthy soups are a great winter warmer, as are fruit teas, orange juice with cinnamon, honey and lemon, or malted drinks made with skimmed milk or hot water (but beware versions loaded with fat and sugar). Socialise There’s scientific proof that the company of others, particularly if laughing and hugging is involved, is great for our wellbeing. So invite friends round, go visiting and attend sociable gatherings wherever possible. Exercise Exercise will warm you up, increase your immunity and alertness and make you feel good too. So bundle yourself up for a walk outdoors on brighter days, and find an indoor activity you enjoy – perhaps an exercise or dance DVD or video game. Whatever you do, your mind and body will feel better for it.
When you’re not just blue, but SAD Over 2 million people in the UK suffer from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), a more severe form of Winter Blues. SAD is at its worst from December to February when days are shortest, and causes either depression, or mood swings between depression and hyper-energy. Sometimes stress or trauma such as bereavement or a new baby seems to be a trigger, and it’s most prevalent in 18-30 year olds. If you are a sufferer, you can help yourself by: Following the Winter Blues advice above Trying a light box Therapeutic light boxes, available to buy or rent, produce light that’s at least ten times as intense as normal daylight. Rent one first to see if it works for you. Seeing your GP They may suggest counselling or CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) or in some circumstances, antidepressants or a structured course of light therapy. For support and information, visit http://www.sada.org.uk/ (The Seasonal Affective Disorder Association (SADA)) or http:// www.sad.org.uk/
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NEW MOBILITY CENTRE Now Open in Huntingdon
at Unit 5A, Cirrus Court, Glebe Road, off St Peters Road, PE29 7DL We are near Huntingdon TESCO supermarket
• Brand new showroom and mobility assessment centre • Huge range of mobility aids to try before you buy • Free home surveys, demonstrations and delivery • Free parking outside our showroom • Competitive prices with high quality products & service • Expert advice on mobility, lifting, moving and handling products • Local company you can trust • Full manufacturer’s warranty on all products • Occupational therapy assessments available with appointments • Servicing and repairs • Please visit us and our friendly staff will provide you with professional caring advice.
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• Scooters From £595 • Wheelchairs from £100 • Rise and recline chairs from £550 • Reclining beds from £695 • Rollators from £70 • Stairlifts from £1,395 We also supply a huge range of other mobility products including: • Daily Living aids • Kitchen Aids • Toileting Aids • Wheelchair Customisations • Powered wheelchairs • Bathlifts • Ramps • Footwear (Cosyfeet) • Wheelchair lifts • Hoists • Steplifts • Stairlifts
Tel 08450 18 11 18 13
Local News
East Anglian Air Ambulance Gets Lift Off with the Huntingdon Male Voice Choir On Saturday March 15th Huntingdon Male Voice Choir and guest artist will be holding a concert in aid of the East Anglian Air Ambulance at St Marys Church Eaton Socon. This promises to be a magical evening of fine voice and good company. Tickets are £10 and the doors open at 7.00pm with a 7.30pm start. There will be a raffle and refreshments. For tickets please contact: Barbara McGee 01763 262697 or barbara.mcgee@eaaa. org.uk , Ian Fuller 01480 819077, Hugh Muir 01480 810820 or tickets can be purchased from Eaton Socon Post Office. HUNTINGDON MALE VOICE CHOIR was founded by a group of friends in 1962. Now nearly 60 strong, it regularly sings in support of local charities. HMVC has successful competition
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performances to its credit and regularly appears on TV and radio. www.hmvc.org.uk THE EAST ANGLIAN AIR AMBULANCE provides Helicopter Emergency Medical Services across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. Every day our highly trained specialist teams fly to the scenes of accidents or medical emergencies. The EAAA operates two helicopters from Norwich and Cambridge airport, running 365 days a year. It covers over 5,000 square miles and a population of approximately 3 million. Our helicopter can reach patients anywhere within 25 minutes. As a charity we need to raise £7.6 million a year. A donation of £2.50 per person a year would ensure the continuation of this invaluable service. www. eaaa.org.uk.
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Abbotsley Golf range
and par 3
NOW OPEN AND AND MANNED UNDER NEW DIRECTION 7 DAYS A WEEK Driving range open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 8pm Saturday and Sunday 7.30am to 6pm during winter months Cromwell centre, Potton Road, Abbotsley, Cambridgeshire PE19 6XN
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Faculties at range centre Par 3 9 holes Foot golf Golf academy, lessons for all golfers with golf pro Steve phone or Call in to book 01474 408900 or 07456-036572 email pro@steveoldhamgolf.co.uk Find Us On Facebook Steve Oldham’s Golf Academy
Abbottsley haf page advert (Feb).indd 1
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20/01/2014 15:38
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Ta-dah! We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to individually redecorate our bedrooms and now they are finished. Have a look through the images on our website or pop in if you’d like a quick tour. You can book online at www.coachhousepotton.co.uk Market square, Potton, 01767 260221
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Time of Year
Valentine’s All Year Round
By Sarah Davey
Valentine’s Day is all about being ‘in love’ isn’t it? But what does ‘being in love’ really mean? Is it just about the flowers, chocolate or perfume? To me, being in love is all about appreciating and noticing my partner. In the first throws of a romance it’s easy: you appreciate the way it feels when he takes your hand; the way she laughs or cries at daft films; the way he pokes his tongue out when he concentrates. You notice the little things and find them endearing. Over time sadly our focus shifts more to the things which irritate us, such as the way we have to ask him to take his muddy shoes off in the house at least three times before he does it, or the way she spends so much money on clothes and beauty products. When we focus on the negatives the positives get lost. Worse, we only appreciate our partner when they produce a big gift, or an extravagant display of affection, mainly because it’s something out of the ordinary so it shakes
us out of our apathy. Florists, jewellers and gift-card suppliers capitalise on this. I am not advocating a Valentine’s Day without cards and flowers, (mainly because I like receiving them), but this year make a list of all the little things you love about your husband, wife or partner as well. Then every day tell them one or two small things you really appreciate about them. Yes it takes effort, but it will help them feel loved every day, not just on Valentine’s Day. The poet Victor Hugo said that ‘The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved; loved for ourselves, or rather, loved in spite of ourselves.’ That surely has to be the best Valentine gift you can give anyone this year.
Do something special in 2014 Foster with Cambridgeshire County Council Fostering involves caring for children and young people for a time limited period. Are you able to offer a child a positive family experience and do you have a spare room? If so, then we would really like to hear from you. We offer generous allowances including a start up package, 24hr support and full training. CALL US TODAY ON FREEPHONE
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Finance
All Change
By Jasmine Birtles, moneymagpie.com These days, many of us are unfaithful – to our service providers, at least; happily flitting between mobile service providers, internet providers, energy companies and insurers to get the best deal. Yet according to the Independent Commission on Banking, on average we only change bank accounts every 26 years. So why aren’t we all browsing comparison sites, checking out the best current accounts? Because we hate the hassle. How could we switch over all those outgoings and incomings? Say a direct debit gets ‘lost’ and we default on a bill? The Current Account Switch Guarantee Relax. Banks know it’s in their best interests to make it easy for you to swap your account to them; some even offer financial incentives. In September, seventeen banks joined the new Current Account Switch Guarantee scheme which should see your bank account transferred within seven days. It means once you’ve chosen a new bank, they take responsibility for the switch (including settling missed direct debits, incurred charges etc and informing everyone concerned). Just chose a switch date (allowing seven working days), then relax as your new bank transfers your incoming payments, outgoing payments and balance, and then closes your old account. Payments via your old account are automatically re-directed for 13 months to cover once-a-year payments. You don’t need to do a thing. www.simplerworld.co.uk has full details of the Switch Guarantee and the banks and building societies signed up so far. What it doesn’t have is information or comparisons on available accounts. So where can you find them? www.moneysupermarket.com/current-accounts/ Use their handy dropdown filter menu or sidebar categories to search for accounts including ones with interest, overdrafts, cashback, or rewards - or from banks signed up to the 7 day Switch Guarantee. http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/ banking/compare-best-bank-accounts This site has detailed discussions and comparisons of the best buys in a number of categories, including the best ethical banks. http://www.which.co.uk/money/bank-accounts/
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reviews-ns/bank-accounts/ Which? also advises on best bank accounts if you’re always in credit or need overdrafts. Fee-charging accounts are listed separately, so it’s worth considering them alongside other options. Sometimes paying a fee can be the best option, so before you search always: Think long and hard about what you want from your current account There’s a bewildering array of account types these days. Some modern current accounts (often described as ‘Offset Mortgages’ rather than current accounts) work in tandem with your savings or mortgage, allowing you to shift money from one to the other – reducing interest payments on your mortgage in good times, and providing a cheap ‘loan’ to cover unexpected calamities like boiler breakdowns. Then there’s cashback, airmiles, points, rewards, special deals on savings and mortgages from the same provider, breakdown cover, travel insurance... so think about which deal saves you the most in real terms, and how you want to operate your account (online, post, branch or all three?). Some great deals can be found outside the Big Four (Lloyds Banking Group, Barclays, Royal Bank of Scotland and HSBC), so keep an open mind. Clydesdale Bank and Nationwide both offer good interest rates if you pay in a minimum of £1000 per month. First Direct isn’t currently offering incredit interest, but does offer financial incentives for switching and a high interest linked savings account, plus a small free overdraft facility. It’s also won both Money Saving Expert and Which? customer service polls. So why not take a look? These deals probably won’t be around in 26 years...
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Health & Beauty
A Touch of Frost – with Raynaud’s finger!
Centre for Complementary Health
This time of year with a combination of cold weather and resolutions to get outside and exercise can cause problems such as white finger otherwise known as Raynaud’s phenomenon. Jane Morris, owner of the Centre for Complementary Health said “Research shows that Raynaud’s phenomenon is a common disorder in which the small blood vessels in the extremities are oversensitive to changes in temperature. It affects mainly females- approximately 10% of women in the UK suffer from Raynaud’s to some degree.” It occurs because your blood vessels go into a temporary spasm which blocks the flow of blood. Most commonly affected are the fingers, though it can involve other parts of the body such as toes, nose and face. Firstly the fingers go cold and white as the small blood vessels in the fingers
narrow (constrict), causing the fingers to loose sensation. Then the fingers can go a bluish colour, as the oxygen is used up quickly from the blood in the narrowed blood vessels. Finally, the fingers go bright red, because blood vessels open up again (dilate) and the blood flow returns. This may cause tingling, throbbing, and pain (which can be severe in some cases). “Raynaud’s can be subdivided into Primary or Secondary. Most of us develop Primary Raynaud’s which occurs spontaneously without any underlying condition being present and is often fairly mild. Secondary Raynaud’s is less common and is associated with underlying diseases such as scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis and is often more severe” added Jane. For the majority of sufferers of mild Raynaud’s it’s about self-care: • Keep the hands and feet warm, warm gloves, socks and shoes are essential when outside in cool weather. • Keep the whole body warm as symptoms are less likely to occur if the entire body warm. • Buy portable heat packs and battery heated gloves and socks. • Try not to touch cold objects. Use gloves when removing food from the freezer or working with cold food. • Regular exercise is recommended; exercise the hands and feet frequently to improve the circulation. • Smoking can make symptoms worse, as the chemicals in tobacco cause the blood vessels to narrow. • Avoid Caffeine (in tea, coffee, cola and in some painkillers) as it triggers symptoms in some people. More info: Website: www.CentreForCompHealth.com Email: info@CentreForCompHealth.com Phone: 01480 455221 There is also further information on: www.raynauds.org.uk www.arthritisresearchuk.org http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Raynaudsphenomenon/Pages/Introduction.aspx
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First Visit Offer Cut & Finish ÂŁ20
Gift vouchers available for Valentines Day and Mothers Day
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Aspirations Coaching
Aspirations Coaching
By Maria White, Life Coach
Have your new year resolutions slipped away? Perhaps you need some coaching? Are you feeling dissatisfied with an aspect of your life, or wish you could take that step to a new career or a new relationship? Do you sometimes wonder what is stopping you getting a promotion or moving house? I have been working with people in similar situations for some time now and have been coaching professionally within the field of education for the last ten years. I am now running my business full time in the St Neots area and I am excited about working locally in this field where I can help improve people’s lives. I have extensive training and am fully qualified and recognised by the International Coaching Federation and the Institute for
Leadership and Management . Through coaching I can offer you a unique approach to helping you make changes in your life and manage difficult situations. Coaching sessions will take place informally, in face to face sessions that last about an hour. Through coaching I will help you to unravel your dilemmas and plan your goals and actions and make real changes in your life. As your coach I will work with you to help you understand the aspects of your life that you are dissatisfied with. I will challenge you and help you address those barriers that are stopping you being fulfilled. Together we can work on your goals and ambitions and realise change in your life.
g in h c a o C s n o ti a ir p s A Helping you take control of your life and achieve success Are you stuck in a rut? Do you want to make a change in your life, your career or your relationships? Would you like to feel in control and have more confidence?
Aspirations coaching is your answer. Coaching will give you the opportunity to reflect and take stock of your life, your career, your relationships. Through coaching I will help you realise your potential, achieve your goals and change your life. I offer a range of coaching packages for individuals, small groups or businesses at competitive prices. Want to know more? Call Maria White for an informal chat. Tel: 07580132141. Email: coach2aspire@gmail.com www.aspirationscoaching.co.uk
Aspirations advert.indd 1 To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122
20/01/2014 15:32
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Judy Lenton B.A. (Hons) Lic,Ac. MBAcC
located at
Headz Up 65 High Street Brampton Huntingdon Cambridgeshire PE28 4TQ
Traditional acupuncture for
telephone
01480 229029
mobile
07557 282617
info@judylentonacupuncture.co.uk or visit
www.judylentonacupuncture.co.uk
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health & wellbeing
Acupuncture FOR WELL-BEING
Judy obtained her Licentiate in Acupuncture, and B.A (Hons) degree in Traditional Acupuncture, from the College of Traditional Acupuncture, Warwickshire. Judy is a passionate believer in the positive benefits, on both physical and emotional levels, that may be obtained from receiving acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture originated in China and other far eastern cultures where it still features in mainstream healthcare, both as a stand-alone therapy and in combination with conventional western medicine. Judy has been trained as a classical Five Element Acupuncturist; treatment is aimed at the root cause of your condition as well as your main symptoms. This approach helps with resolving your problem and enhancing your feelings of wellbeing. You may notice other niggling problems resolve as your main health complaint improves. Judy continues to pursue her belief in excellence of care for her patients in her role as a dedicated acupuncture practitioner, and is a member of the British Acupuncture Council. Please contact Judy for a free 20minute consultation to discuss how acupuncture treatment can help you.
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Fun Quiz - Say It With Flowers 1. Famous for its slogan “say it with flowers”, what is the world’s largest flower delivery network? 2. Which literary hero took his nickname from the drawing of a small red flower he used to sign his messages? 3. What name is given to the pollen-producing reproductive organ of a flower? 4. Better known as a singer, who wrote the 2003 best-selling children’s book The English Roses? 5. In the film Bambi, what type of animal is Flower? 6. What spice is obtained from the crocus? 7. Mrs Cobbitt was the flower seller on which children’s TV show? 8. In 2001, the Flower Pot Men were revived in a stop-motion animation show for Children’s BBC called Bill And Ben, but what type of flower was Weed replaced with? 9. Also the name of a brand of margarine, who was the Roman goddess of flowers? 10. According to legend, which flowering plant was the last to be named by God and had to remind God that it needed a name?
1. Interflora 2. The Scarlet Pimpernel 3. The stamen 4. Madonna 5. A skunk 6. Saffron 7. Trumpton 8. A sunflower 9. Flora 10. The forget-me-not
Before
After
Jazzercise got me back in my dress size. It fuels my mind and spirit while toning every inch of my body. - Bo 44
£5 for 2 classes
New customers or those returning after 6 months only. Other restrictions may apply. Bring this Ad with you.
St Neots
Priory Jr School, Longsands Road Mon & Wed 6.45pm & 8pm, Sat 9am Express (30 min) Mon & Fri 6pm No need to book • Classes also in Cambourne, Sandy, St Ives, Cambridge, Longstanton & other areas. For further info go to
www.jazzfitness.co.uk
or call 01480 216090
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Dedicated support for clients in relationship breakdown:
• • • • •
Separation Financial Settlements Change of Name Prenuptial Agreements Mediation
• • • • •
Divorce Living together agreements Adoption Children issues Collaborative family law
Fiona McLeman Family Law is accredited by Resolution and the Solicitors Regulation Authority as a Specialist in Family Law. For a free initial consultation contact Fiona:
fiona@fmfamilylaw.co.uk, 07894095775, www.fmfamilylaw.co.uk Regus House, 1010 Cambourne Business Park, Cambourne CB23 6DP
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Family Law
Valentine’s Day Proposals A few facts about engagements
An engagement is a promise to marry. The length of the engagement can be long or short, depending on the wishes of the couple. The term fiancé or fiancée is usually applied to the intended bride and groom. The term derives from the French for ‘betrothed’. Many couples mark their engagement with the gifting of an engagement ring. Traditionally, the ring has been gifted from groom to be from bride to be. However, it’s now fashionable for male fiancés to also wear an engagement ring in recognition of their forthcoming nuptials, and their commitment to their future spouse. The ring is traditionally worn on the ring finger of the left hand. This developed from the Roman “annulus pronubis” when the man gave a ring to the woman at the betrothal ceremony. Tradition in some countries suggests that the wedding ring is worn on the ring finger of the left hand because the vein on that finger is thought to connect directly to the heart, a symbol of love. What happens to the ring if the engagement is broken? In law, the gift of the ring is deemed to be an absolute gift from one party to the other. If the engagement ends, the recipient is entitled to keep the ring. However, if it can be established that the gifting of the ring was only conditional on the marriage taking place, then the ring must be returned. Many would assume that the gifting of an engagement ring would always be viewed on the basis that the marriage would take place as that was the purpose of the engagement. However, ultimately, it will be a question of whether the fiancé wishes to return the ring, and whether the donor wishes it to be returned. On either scenario, sadly the ring will no longer represent the betrothal of love that it was intended for. These days, a second home can be found through online sites such as preloved, EBay and neverlikeditanyway. com.
The notion that the man should spend a fraction of his annual income on purchasing the engagement ring came from a well-known jeweller’s marketing concept which aimed to increase the sale of diamonds. The current expectation is that an intended spouse should spend at least one month’s salary on the ring. Pre wedding plans may now also concern discussions about whether to have a prenuptial agreement or a Prenup as they are more commonly known. A Prenup is now common place for many couples, particularly for those entering second marriages, or where one of the couple has family wealth. Although not yet enshrined in legal statute, the courts have upheld such agreements provided the right conditions were in place when the agreement was entered into. For advice about all family law matters, contact Fiona McLeman Family Law for an initial no cost consultation.
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Leeds Day Solicitors
Lasting Powers of Attorney
Leeds Day Solicitors
Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) - There are a number of reasons why you might need someone to make decisions for you, or act on your behalf. It could just be temporary: for example, if you are in hospital or on holiday and need help with everyday things such as making sure that bills are paid. Or you may need to make more long-term plans if, for example, you are concerned that you may become infirm as you get older. Sometimes people become incapable of managing their property and financial affairs or personal welfare and need someone to do this for them. A friend, relative or professional can be appointed to hold a Lasting Power of Attorney to enable them to act on that person’s behalf. A Lasting Power of Attorney is a way of giving someone you trust the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you lack mental capacity at some time in the future or no longer wish to make decisions for yourself. It is a legal document whereby you (the dDonor) can appoint someone you trust (The Attorney) to make decisions on your behalf. It can be drawn up at any time while you understand the nature and implications of the document but it has no legal standing until it is registered with the Office of The Public Guardian. Choosing an Attorney - Remember, the role of Attorney involves a great deal of power and responsibility so it is important that you trust the person you choose. Think carefully about whether there is someone you believe would be able to carry out the role and make decisions in your best interests. Give the person you ask time to think about the role to make sure that they are happy to
Our offices: Huntingdon Godwin House, George Street, Huntingdon, PE29 3BD T: 01480 454301
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“No-one wants to think about getting ill but by creating a Lasting Power of Attorney you choose who acts for you and with your best interests at heart”
act. Your Attorney could be a family member or a friend. Alternatively, they could be a professional, such as a solicitor. There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney:• Property and Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney This LPA gives your Attorney authority to make decisions about your property and financial affairs. This can include running your bank accounts and savings accounts, making decisions about your investments and selling property and spending your money. These decisions can be made when you are still mentally capable provided the LPA has been registered. • Personal Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney This LPA enables you to choose someone to make decisions about your healthcare and welfare. This includes decisions to refuse or consent to medical treatment and deciding where you live. These decisions can only be taken when the LPA is registered and if you lack the capacity to make the decisions yourself. Registration - Before the LPA can be used it must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian. The LPA can be registered as soon as it has been signed or its registration can be postponed until it is needed in the future. We can assist you with the preparation and registration of a Lasting Power of Attorney. We have offices in St. Neots, St. Ives and Huntingdon. If you would be interested in discussing LPAs with one of our members of staff, please contact us on the telephone numbers below by email at wills@leedsday.co.uk or visit our website www.leedsday.co.uk
www.leedsday.co.uk St. Ives 11 Station Road, St. Ives, Cambridgeshire PE27 5BH T: 01480 464600
St. Neots 1A South Street, St. Neots, Cambridgeshire, PE19 2BW T: 01480 474661
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Anstee Gorst
Chartered Certified Accountants
- Accounts preparation for Sole traders, Partnerships and Limited Companies - Self assessment tax returns - Cash Flow Forecasting - Vat, Payroll & Bookkeeping - Business Start Up Free Initial Consultation Phone: Antoinette Gorst ACCA or Sally Anstee FCCA 01767 650700 Ground Floor Offices, Unit 30, Green End, Gamlingay, Sandy, Beds, SG19 3LF Email: office@ansteegorst.co.uk Website: www.ansteegorst.co.uk
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Jill Dighton
BSc (Hons) MBACP, UKCP Reg.
Counselling Service Depressed? Anxious? Stressed out? Struggling to cope? Have you considered Counselling sessions? Based in the tranquil village of Grafham, I offer a professionally qualified Counselling Service in a secure, confidential and non-judgemental atmosphere. Ample parking. Concessionary rates available. For further details: Visit: www.jilldightoncounselling.co.uk Email: j.dighton@hotmail.co.uk Tel: 07925 852 985 (Voicemail available)
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Beacon Wealth
Your Future is Important
By Tony Larkins
We entered this world innocent and free of worry, perception, anticipation or expectation. Through our informative years we learned the importance of education, although sometimes I agree, perhaps a little too late to take advantage of it. As we grew older we meandered through life, faced trials and tribulations, and became burdened by the weight of responsibility to ourselves, partners and, if blessed, those of our offspring. This is often when we look back and think how simple it all was. Isn’t hindsight a wonderful thing? Financial planning works on the basis of reverse hindsight. We start by looking into the future and deciding what life looks like at that time. The planning is deciding what needs to happen between now and then, so that it becomes as near to reality as possible. Clearly, there will be actions beyond our control that will cause a variance, be that for example, tax, inflation, or health. This is why regular revision is useful. My own annual plan is, as you can imagine as a former accountant, life coach and full time planner, quite specific in detail regarding what I want and how to achieve it. I even have a disaster recovery plan if health becomes an issue. It is our informative years that have given us the ability to look forward and compare our desired lives with those around us now, or perhaps our own parents. We build into the future the ability to assist
Tony Larkins CFP APFS Managing Director IFA Chartered and Certified Financial Planner
in the lives of others where permitted. How many times have you been told, or even said to others, “you can do anything if you put your mind to it.” The reality of lifes experiences is that sometimes you need to think ‘outside the box’ to achieve it, or structure an actively managed investment programme. For others in the last third of their life it is about doing things now, whilst physically able, so a desire does not become a regret in the future. Financial planners help improve your existing situation, and create a path to follow so you can achieve your plan. As Neil said at the end of the Matrix film “I can show you a world where anything can happen.” After all, it was Mary Kay Ash who said “there are three types of people in the world; those who make things happen, those who watch things happen and those who wondered what happened.” For something as important in your life as your future, it pays to use the skills of an experienced Chartered or Certified financial planner. Go on, treat yourself and contact a financial planner, some of my clients have been quite surprised by what is possible. You should always seek qualified advice from an IFA, preferably a Certified (CFP) or Chartered Financial PlannerCM (APFS). If you have a financial question, e-mail: tlarkins@beaconwealth.co.uk
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GARDEN MACHINERY AND TRAILER CENTRE
Personal customer service, collection and delivery available. Assessment of individual requirements. Full after sales backup and parts service. NEW Oregon, the world's only unique battery operated, self-sharpening s In stock. chain saw. Ride-on and pedestrian mowers, chainsaws, strimmers, hedge trimmers, cultivators, estate and equestrian equipment. Trailers - sales, hire, service. Accessories, oils, Aspen fuel, batteries, spares, security locks for garden/ horticultural machinery and trailers. horticultu
Appointed dealers for:
Main dealer for Briggs & Stratton, Honda, Kohler, Kawasaki & Mountfield engines.
Honeydon Road, Colmworth, Bedfordshire MK44 2LY
01234 376513 www.bri-ag.co.uk
Open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 12pm
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Tree & Shrub Inspection
As we come out of winter now is the time to have your trees inspected by a qualified Arborist. Over the winter trees have sustained a high level of stress mainly from severe weather conditions. High winds, heavy rain fall and extreme temperatures can have a detrimental effect on trees from both a structural and health point of view. High Winds: This type of weather can cause several issues with both mature and young trees. An inspection can highlight any significant damage to a trees structural integrity which could lead to either a partial failure of the canopy or entire failure at either the root plate or main stem. If the tree is located near a public right of way or properties it is essential to ensure the tree is safe. Heavy Rainfall: Trees can suffer from water logging of the root system which can either “drown” the roots or create and unstable environment for the roots to develop in. If a tree doesn’t develop a suitable root system then water uptake will poor and the tree will eventually decline and die. Extreme temperatures: Cold temperatures can have several impacts on trees and shrubs. Frost can either wilt or scorch leaves, even of the hardiest evergreens which can lead to the specimen dying. Also, if the tree is located near a road or drive, salt damage can be fatal, especially if the tree is suffering from another issue at the same time.
For more advice visit: www.bartlett.com or contact Bartlett Tree Experts on 01234 354 673 Visit us on Facebook at Bartlett Tree Experts – 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 261122
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Gardening
In The Garden
By Gareth Arscott
www.buckdenperennialplants.webs.com The relatively warm weather has confused some of the flowers. Our Common Primroses started flowering again just before Christmas and is still in flower. I am sure the books say it flowers MarchMay! The Kaffir Lily (Schizostylis coccinea) should be out in August and September but has flowered all autumn and winter. Beautiful flowers that are long lasting make this a must have plant. It looks far more tropical and tender than it is. Don’t let it get water-logged and it will reward you well. It seems that the old rules don’t apply anymore and this year we are going to try a few new plants that we have avoided in the past. We are going to collect some seeds from a trip to the Mediterranean later in the year, in the meantime we are going to try to grow some more exotic or at least exotic looking plants.
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Berkheya Purpurea ‘Zulu Warrior’ is from the Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa. It is as spikey as any thistle you will ever come across. It has pale purple sunflower like flowers. Back in November we noticed that Distinctive Seeds (distinctiveseeds.wix.com/distinctiveseeds) had this available, so we have ordered some. They sell their seeds in small packets, so there is no waste. We like that philosophy. They also include sowing and planting instructions, which is great for plants that are new to us. They kindly supplied the picture for us too. Find something different and unusual to grow this year. We will have some freebies next month so look out for March’s Villager.
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SAW GARDEN SERVICES
‘At The Cutting Edge’
Providing Fencing, Decking Lawn & Hedge Services • All types of Fencing & Gates supplied & erected • Decking installed/repaired • Turfing & Lawn Seeding • Hedge Cutting • Fully Licensed Waste Carrier • Full Liability Insurance
Call for a FREE estimate:
01767 651 962 / 07762 096 089
E: simon@sawgardenservice.co.uk
www.sawgardenservice.co.uk
SURECLEAN Gutter Cleaning Gutters cleaned safely from the ground using our ladderless gutter cleaning system. Powerful vacuum will remove leaves, moss and all debris and make no mess. We can clean up to the height of 40ft.
Call us for a free quote
01480 630612/07870 338074 www.surecleancarpetcleaning.co.uk
Unique Landscape
& Driveways We specialise in
Patios, Fencing, Clear Ups Turf Laying, Hedge Trimming Tree Cutting, Tree Felling, Planting, Pruning, Driveways, Printed concrete, Stencil Concrete, Decking ...and much more
Free Quotations Reliable Friendly Service Mob: 07717 760851 Office: 01480 434401
www.uniquedrivewaylandscapes.com
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Pets
ANIMAL Heroes
RSPCA Bedfordshire North Branch
Stories told by the heroes who adopt one of our animals. Rather than buying your pet from a pet shop, please consider re-homing an abandoned animal currently being cared for by a local animal charity. Be a hero – adopt a pet! Ava’s story Ava is of uncertain age, two years perhaps? A substantial, rather ungainly black and white female with lop ears. She’s friendly, placid and inordinately fond of food. In August last year, someone took her to a vet’s, claiming to have found her in their garden. Nobody claimed her. The vet passed her on to the RSPCA Bedfordshire North Branch and Ava was given to a volunteer, Maria, who had agreed to foster rabbits for the first time. Details of Ava were posted up on the local RSPCA website which is where we spotted her. We had bought our first rabbit, a female, Evie, back in June and in September had bought a little male, Benji, to be her companion with a view to introducing them once both had been neutered. That grand plan was destroyed one night in October when Evie escaped. The children were distraught and we were left with two hutches, a large homemade enclosure in the garden and one small, solitary, soon-to-be neutered Benji. Conscious winter was approaching, we wanted an adult rabbit who would cope outdoors and who
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was already neutered. We turned to the RSPCA. A very nice volunteer came and inspected us and impressed us with her thoroughness and common sense advice. She had three females available: one that had been clearly mistreated and needed careful handling, a very small one and big, solid, placid Ava. Given the children, we plumped for Ava and duly collected her from Maria in November. Once Benji had recovered from his operation, we introduced them. I will be eternally grateful to the advice the original RSPCA volunteer gave us about the introduction process. I found the initial fights nerve-wracking and could hardly believe it, when, by the end of the day of the pair of them were peaceably sharing a hutch. Without that advice, I may well have given up after the first few unsuccessful encounters. Yet now, three months on, Benji and Ava are inseparable. They spend their days either belting round (Benji) or lolloping lazily round (Ava) their enclosure or else sitting together on the roof of the hutch, surveying the world, keeping a close eye on the kitchen door. And in the process they are giving huge pleasure to the whole family. It’s as if Ava has always been with us. ANIMAL HEROES is one of a series of articles brought to you by the RSPCA Bedfordshire North Branch. www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk
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Untitled-2 1
17/01/2014 12:01
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 ÂŁ6.60/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. To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122
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Do you run a Sports or Social Club?
For children from 0 to 5 years
If so please send us your details including the name of the club and what you do, where it’s held, what days, what age group you appeal to and contact information.
Dance Classes • Music For Little People • Spanish Lessons • Monkeynastix • To find out more call us today
01480 810816 Buckden Day Nursery 16 Mill Road, Buckden Cambs. PE19 5SS
Whether it’s bowling, sailing, badminton, football, cricket or table tennis we want to hear about it and so do our readers. Email christa@villagermag.com by Friday 14th February to appear March issue.
e: info@buckden-day-nursery.co.uk w: www.buckden-day-nursery.co.uk
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WOOD GREEN Behind the Animal carer scenes tours experience day Tuesday 18th February 2014 10am – 12pm & 1 – 3pm Godmanchester Centre £5 per person Join us and get hands on making fun pet toys and feed some of our animals tasty treats. Suitable for 5 year olds and over and booking essential.
– unique present for 7 – 12 year olds! Thursday 20th February 2014, 10am – 3pm Godmanchester Centre £75 per child + free adult space, £5 shop voucher and children’s lunch voucher Get Hands On with essential animal carer duties including cleaning out, health checking, feeding, making enrichment toys, getting creative in the dog kitchen and having a go at dog training! Receive a goody bag and certificate. Maximum group size of 4 and booking essential.
As of January 20th, in order to reduce the stress for our dogs we have restricted the public viewing of these dogs at our Godmanchester Centre to those people who are genuinely looking to rehome a canine companion. In addition, Wood Green will be closing all animal sections at all centres to the public on Mondays, excluding Bank Holidays, so that teams can spend additional time with the animals and undertake any necessary training. If you would like further information please see our website.
Call: 0844 248 8181 Visit: www.woodgreen.org.uk Or Email: handson@woodgreen.org.uk
King’s Bush Farm, London Road, Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire, PE29 2NH
Animal rehoming Charity Shop Restaurant Pet & Gift Shop Children’s play area 10.00am – 4.00pm
The Animals Charity Registered Charity No. 298348.
40 WGAS Villager 131w x 93h Cambs 1.14.indd
1
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Motoring
First drive: Kia Ray EV
By James Baggott
Kia is entering the electric vehicle market in 2014 with an EV version of its Soul mini SUV. We headed to South Korea to try that car’s forerunner, the Ray EV, which is leading the charge for the brand’s electric future. We took it for a spin around the heaving city to see what we could learn about the Soul that will use an enhanced version of its tech. What is it? Let’s clear this up from the start – the Ray is not, and will never be, available in the UK. But this car is pioneering the technology that will appear in the Soul EV in the UK in the winter of 2014. The Ray is a micro city car for the Korean market where some 67,000 have been sold. The EV version, though, is only available on a pilot car sharing scheme in Seoul where 180 of the tiny cars are available to 15,000 members for as little as £3 an hour. Kia has been using the scheme to gain data on its EV models that it has used to refine the mass production Soul version. What’s under the bonnet? What’s more important is what’s under the seats. Hidden in the floor pan is a battery pack that’s coupled to an electric motor situated in the more traditional location under the bonnet. We won’t concentrate too much on what the Ray features, as much of this has been enhanced for the Soul. The Soul EV has a range of 125 miles, can be fully charged in five hours or topped up in just 25 minutes with a fast charger. Top speed is 90mph and it will hit 60mph in around 14 seconds. What’s the spec like? That’s unclear at this point, but what we do know is that when the Soul EV arrives it will be the most expensive model in the
range. That will mean it’s likely to have Kia’s top spec with a clever sat nav system that will point out recharging locations and range, just like our Ray EV test car did. Kia did tell us the Soul will come with heated and cooling front and rear seats and a heated steering wheel. Slightly different bumpers and headlamps, and a charge point in the grille, will mark out the EV model from the rest of the Soul range. Any rivals? BMW are the latest entrants to this market with the i3, but electric car buyers can also choose from more established offerings from Nissan like the Leaf, or Renault’s Zoe. If you’re looking for something even more outrageous, then you could consider a Renault Twizy. What’s it like to drive? On clogged streets in South Korea’s capital, we found the brisk, smooth acceleration of the battery powered model a boon. The silent running makes for a relaxing drive and the added weight from the batteries was hard to spot. Regenerative braking was also impressive, if a little aggressive at slamming on the anchors at times. The verdict We’re impressed with Kia’s first entry into the EV market. There’s currently no word on pricing for the Soul or whether buyers will be offered the car complete with batteries to buy outright, like Nissan, or rented the batteries and sold the car, like Renault. What was clear from our test drive, though, is that Kia has EV technology pretty much nailed and it’s ready to go. Fact in the likelihood the manufacturer’s competitive pricing will be brought into the equation, the Soul EV could be the shake up the segment needs.
The knowledge Model: Kia Ray EV Price: N/A (car share scheme only) Engine: 50kw electric motor Power: 68bhp, 167Nm Max speed: 90mph 0-60mph: 15.9s Range: 125 miles Emissions: 0g/km
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Wash Xpress Adverts:Wash Xpress Advert - 131x93mm 15/01/2014 15:34 Page 1
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Free ColleCtion & Delivery * 48 Hour turnaround Available evening Collection & Delivery Available *orders under £20 may be subject to a delivery charge.
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to Book yoUr ColleCtion FreePHone
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Motoring
Park it!
By Debbie Singh-Bhatti For over three decades I have happily manoeuvred an assortment of vehicles and have safely reversed into a multitude of parking spaces - but I still bless the day I took possession of my latest car! For the first time ever I am experiencing the benefits of parking sensors – and as with many things, now I’ve got them, I wonder how I managed without them! Just this week, the warning bleep I receive whilst reversing towards another object prevented a potential collision. The driver of the other car and I were parked across from each other and we both started to reverse out of our parking spaces at the same time – which meant that even though I had checked all was clear before starting the manoeuvre, we ended up on a direct collision course! The insistent and increasingly frantic bleep of my reversing sensors alerted me to the danger and I was able to pull forward out of harm’s way. It’s not all about avoiding collisions though. Having parking sensors means that I am able to fit my car into smaller spaces because the job of judging distance and space has been taken from me, to a degree. I find I have much more confidence about parking and am able to do it with greater ease. There are two types of parking sensors 1. Ultrasonic sensors bounce sound waves off obstacles, using the ‘echo’ time to indicate how far away they are. A speaker in the car bleeps – with increasing urgency – as the obstacles get closer. They work even when the car is stationary, but may miss smaller or narrow objects and inclines. Fitting usually requires drilling the bumper and they may not be suitable for use with a tow bar. 2. Electromagnetic sensors create an invisible electromagnetic field around the car’s bumper and any objects entering it trigger a warning sound. Mounted inside the bumper so that there is no need for drilling, they are suitable for use with tow bars, cycle racks etc. but only detect objects once the once the car is in motion. Parking sensors can be fitted to the rear or front of a vehicle – or both. Reverse sensors activate once reverse gear is selected and switch off automatically when the gear is changed. Front sensors are activated manually and usually deactivate once a pre-determined speed is reached by the vehicle. In my opinion, parking sensors are an absolute MUST - but if your car doesn’t have them, don’t despair! They can be fitted post manufacture, with prices starting at around £30 for the ultrasonic version, and £70 for the electromagnetic sensors.
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Garage Doors All leading Makes of Doors Supplied, Fitted & Repaired Manual & Automatic Over 20 Years Experience
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Food and Drink
Seasonal Delights Sausages and Puy Lentils
Serves 4 Ready in 40 minutes If you fancy a change from the usual sausage and mash why not go Continental? Tasty Toulouse sausages wrapped in pancetta and served on a bed of flavoursome puy lentils make the perfect mid-week meal. INGREDIENTS 225g puy lentils 225g shallots, peeled and halved 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp brown sugar 150ml vegetable stock 2 tbsp red wine vinegar 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 8 Toulouse or chunky pork sausages 8 rashers pancetta or smoked streaky bacon, stretched with the back of a knife 2 tsp clear honey 3 tbsp chopped fresh flat leaf parsley 1 Place the lentils in a pan and cover with water. Bring to the boil then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. 2 Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a deep frying pan and fry the shallots for 5 minutes, stirring
occasionally, until just starting to soften. Sprinkle over the brown sugar and cook for a further 8-10 minutes until the shallots are golden and caramelised. 3 Drain the lentils and add to the frying pan with the stock, vinegar and 2 tsp of the mustard. Simmer for about 15 minutes until the lentils are just tender. Stir occasionally and add a little more stock, if necessary. 4 While the lentils are cooking, wrap each sausage with a pancetta rasher. Cook under a medium-hot grill for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently until the sausages are almost cooked through. Mix together the rest of the mustard with the honey and brush over the sausages. Cook for a further 3-4 minutes until the pancetta is crisp and browned. 5 Stir half the parsley into the lentils and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve the lentils and sausages on warmed plates garnished with the remaining parsley. Tip - If you can’t find Toulouse sausages, Lincolnshire, Cumberland or pork and leek varieties will work just as well.
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ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
Easy Suduko
Hard Suduko
Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repetition. Use your logic to solve the puzzles. 48
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GDC HEATING
Plumbing, Gas and Oil Heating Engineers
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Tel: 01480 215821 01582 867152 www.gdcheating.com Email: enquiries@gdcheating.com
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01480 630612 or 07870 338074 50
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The Wildlife Trust
The Flora and the Lizards
of the Canary Islands, the Galapagos of the Atlantic The Huntingdonshire Local Group of the Wildlife Trust is pleased to present an illustrated talk on the flora and lizards of the Canary Islands on Wednesday 12th February at 7.30pm at Brampton Memorial Hall, Thrapston Road, Brampton. Our speaker, Peter Payne, formerly worked at the Plant Breeding Institute, Cambridge and, since retirement, has been studying the flora of East Anglia and the Canary Islands. There are seven main islands in the Canary Island archipelago, each distinctly different. They have a unique and beautiful flora and include 600 species only found on these islands, with many of these restricted to just one island. With birds their only predators, there are many lizards on
the islands, including several exotic species with very restricted distributions. Anyone interested in wildlife is most welcome to attend. Suggested donation: ÂŁ2.00 members; ÂŁ2.50 non-members. Please contact Phil on 01487 822835. for further information. Part of the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire
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Local News
The Cinnamon Trust
Working with the elderly and terminally ill and their pets The Cinnamon Trust operates throughout the whole of the UK and we do operate in your area. We are the only specialist national charity that works with the elderly and terminally ill people and their pets to protect the treasured relationship between them and try to keep them together for as long as possible. We do this by tasking a network of approximately 15,000 volunteers nationwide to assist with the practical day to day care of pets, for example by walking dogs, helping with transport, feeding, grooming, medication etc. The trust also provides short term foster care for pets who’s owners face a spell in hospital, and offers peace of mind by giving people the opportunity to make prior arrangements for the care of beloved companions should they outlive their owners. There is also advice available for people going into residential care, and the trust produces a guide to Pet Friendly Care Homes.
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We offer a lifeline that enables pet owners to continue to benefit from the special relationship they enjoy with their beloved companions, the pets themselves receive the care and attention that they need. Anyone wishing to talk to the trust about how we could support them should contact our headquarters in Hayle, Cornwall, by calling 01736 757900. Anyone wishing to volunteer will need to register with the Trust and they can do this either by going to the Cinnamon Trust Website www.cinnamon. org.uk and downloading the volunteer registration form, or by phoning headquarters on 01736 758705 or emailing volunteer@cinnamon.org.uk There is a map on the website highlighting areas where we are currently running appeals.
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Prize
The Villager Prize Crossword
£25
Across 1 European country (7) 5 Scour (5) 8 Inflamed (7) 9 Precise (5) 10 Strict (5) 11 Operating room (7) 12 Painter (6) 14 Lethal (6) 17 Non professional (7) 19 Likeness (5) 22 Edgy, anxious (5) 23 Revised (7) 24 Father (5) 25 Harnessed to ride (7)
and send to the address below before
15th February 2014 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Name:
Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this page
Down 1 Types of transport (5) 2 Not tight (5) 3 E.g. Crete, Rhodes (7) 4 Tiny (6) 5 Stage set (5) 6 Oven cooked (7) 7 Torch power cell (7) 12 Made suitable (7) 13 Coached (7) 15 Once lived (7) 16 Destroys (6) 18 Including all (5) 20 Fourth month (5) 21 Finished (5)
Tel:
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NICEIC Approved Domestic Installer Safety inspections Fuse board upgrades Replacements lights Additional power points Extensions For your free quote contact Rob Ambrose on 07553 922005 Or e-mail info@paxtonelectricaltesting.co.uk
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01480 495408 OR 07887887319 56
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FLOORED By Ian
Your local supplier of fitted floors in carpet, vinyl, laminate or Karndean Free visits to estimate or advise. Best prices and quality with a friendly service. Enquiries to 01480 475486 or (Mobile) 07876 238308
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n O s ’ t Wha 1 February Craft Fair 9.30am-4pm St Ives Free Church Local people selling hand-made crafts at very reasonable prices. Held on the first Saturday of each month. Charity tombola and free entry. For more details visit http://www.saintscrafters.blogspot.com 1 February Hardy Plant Society Talk 2pm The Wetherley Centre, Biggleswade Small charge for visitors Cambs and Beds Hardy Plant Society present a talk by Geoff Hodge on ‘Pruning making it simple’’. Geoff is and Editor and Garden Writer. Plants for sale. All welcome. Web: www.hpscambsandbeds.co.uk 2 February Beacon Antiques Fair 10am-4.30pm The Sharnbrook Hotel, Park Lane, Sharnbrook, MK44 1LX Admission: £2.00 This antiques fair offers a diverse range of quality antiques so whether you are a professional dealer, an avid collector or just looking for something special, this unique fair is the place to visit. Refreshments including tea, coffee, soft drinks and snacks served throughout the day. Tel: 01480 382432 2, 9, 16 & 23 February Kingfisher Church 10.30am Little Paxton Primary School Every Sunday – all welcome. Services include children’s groups and a crèche. Refreshments served. Tel: 01480 394321 for further details Web: www.kingfisherchurch.co.uk 5 February Little Paxton Gardening Club Mike Day will speaking about “Salads All Year Round”. Learn how to grow many varieties and eat seasonally. 7 February Philomena - Kimbolton Community Cinema 7 for 7.30pm Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Tel: 01480 860297 for more details Web: http://e-voice.uk/themandevillehallkimbolton Tickets: Watson’s, Dixie’s Deli, Bytes Café or on the door if available.
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7 & 8 February 1940’s Music and Dance Weekend! Friday 7pm-12 midnight Saturday workshops from 10am Saturday evening 7pm Burgess Hall, Westwood Road, St Ives Tickets: Friday evening £11, Saturday evening £17.50 – buy both for £25 5th Annual 1940’s event with The Swing Commanders on Friday night, dance workshops on Saturday and Chris Smith Jnr and the String of Pearls on Saturday night. Unreserved cabaret seating, and a fully licensed bar with food available. Added attractions include vintage stalls, movie room showing films of the era, re-enactors in a war time home, vintage vehicles (weather permitting). Why not dress in the clothes of that era - allied uniform or in 1930/40’s period clothing, it will add to the atmosphere! Evening Tickets available from the Box Office or website. For information on Dance Workshops please email paul@rug-cutters.co.uk. Tel: Box Office 01480 388500 Web: www.burgesshall.net 8 February Tabletop Sale Sellers 9am, Doors open 10am Buckden Village Hall Tables £5, Free admission Sell your unwanted Christmas gifts, de-clutter or come along to bag a bargain! Tel: Bookings and further info Rachel 01480 811101 8 & 9 February Historical Fair 9am-5pm Wood Green Animal Shelter, Godmanchester Tel: 01480 453390 12 February The Flora and the Lizards of the Canary Islands 7.30pm Brampton Memorial Hall, Thrapston Road, Brampton The Huntingdonshire Local Group of the Wildlife Trust is pleased to present an illustrated talk on the flora and lizards of the Canary Islands, the Galapagos of the Atlantic. Anyone interested in wildlife is welcome to attend. Tel: Phil 01487 822835 Web: www.wildlifetrust-huntsareagroup.org.uk
16 February A Celebration of Marriage 3pm St James’ Church, Little Paxton The annual service open to any couples thinking about marriage, who want to celebrate marriage or anybody who thinks marriage is a good thing. Wedding music, hymns and readings followed by refreshments. 18 February Kimbolton Flower Club 7.30pm Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Admission £6, including light refreshments Demonstration entitled “All About Flowers” by Elizabeth Ollenbittle. Arrangements will be raffled. Accessories for sale. Visitors most welcome. 19 February Huntingdonshire Family History Society 7.30-9pm Women’s Institute Centre, Waldon Road, Huntingdon Non-members welcome - £1 donation appreciated at the door. The Swing Riots by Rita Butler. Web: www.huntsfhs.org.uk 22 February Grand Auction Sale Viewing 9.45-11.00am, Auction begins promptly at 11am Buckden Millennium Hall Free admission In aid of St. Mary’s Fundraisers. Refreshments. 22 February Shepreth Village Hall Market. 10am-12.30pm Our market is now in its 2nd year and we would like to thank everybody who has supported it. Tim and Lisa’s Basket and Apple juice gazebo will be outside the hall welcoming you in along with local, fresh produce from around the area inside and a lot of new stalls including “The Dog Coat Lady” and “Biscuit Bunny” fabulous biscuit creations for all occasions. Refreshments by Shepreth W.I. Please call in to sample the wares and purchase some excellent buys! Everyone welcome, including dogs! Tel. Jane 07554207580 Web.www.stallsinthevillagehall.co.uk 22 & 23 February St. Ives Antiques Fair 10am-4pm Burgess Hall, Westwood Road, St. Ives, PE27 4WU Adults: £2, Concessions: £1.50 A great day out at this well-established Antiques Fair with more than 40 dealers attending, offering treasures of yesteryear at affordable prices to suit all pockets. Tel: Linda Parkhouse 01480 896866 for further details Email: parkhousepr@aol.com
26 February Musical Memories 11am-12.30pm Peppercorns Academy, Little End Road, Eaton Socon, St Neots, PE19 8JH Free event It is recognised that singing, listening to music, even playing an instrument, are pleasures that remain for people with dementia long after everything else has gone. This accounts for the spread, and growing popularity of groups all over the country that provide an opportunity for those with memory problems and their carers, to meet at regular intervals to sing together. A group of volunteers in St. Neots that already hold a monthly drop in at the Coffee Pot Club and a Pub Lunch, with the support of local Rotarians, are starting a monthly gathering to sing and socialise for anyone with memory problems and their carers. The group will meet under the musical direction of Caroline Muzolf of Peppercorns Music Academy. The group will meet on the fourth Wednesday of every month. All those with memory problems and their carers, are very welcome to come along and join in. Tel: Wendy 01480 219925 or Nell 01480 472495 for more details 27 February St Neots & District Gardening Club 8pm St. Mary’s Church Hall, Brook Street, St. Neots Members £2.00,Non-Members £2.50 which includes refreshments and a raffle ticket Meeting with Sara Oldfield talking about Botanical Garden Travels. Competition is Snowdrops. 1 March Quiz Night 7-10pm Buckden Village Hall Tickets £2 including nibbles Come and test your general knowledge. Licensed bar. Prize for the winning team. Tel: Tickets 01480 811101 1 March Horse Race Night Wyboston Village Hall Tickets £7.50 including fish & chip supper A family, fun event. Licensed Bar. Please see website for full details. Tel: Susie Woodman 01234 376098 Web: www.wybostonvillagehall.com 22 March Fundraising Ferret Racing Evening 7 for 7.30pm Great Stukeley Village Hall £14 per person including Cottage Pie Supper Tote, Raffle, Bring Your Own Bottle. Name your own Ferret £6 per race. Theme: American-Red, White & Blue. Tickets going fast! Tel: Mary Alleyne-James 01480 433954
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LESTER O’DRISCOLL CARPENTRY Door Hanging, Skirting, Flooring, Fitted Kitchens, Fencing, Decking, General Carpentry, Extensions
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M Compton
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Books
BOOK REVIEW
Decorating and Property Services
By Bruce Edwards
Siegfried Sassoon - Soldier, Poet, Lover, Friend. Jean Moorcroft Wilson Duckworth Overlook, HB £25 After the frivolity of Christmas tide we’re into more serious mode. This is the year of reflection, a consideration of how, one hundred years ago - yes, a hundred - this country launched into a disastrous conflict that radically altered our way of life. So, perhaps opportunely, we can look at a significant man of the day. Here is a massive tome - ‘a life in one volume’ from an acknowledged expert on this remarkable literary figure. If one needs to discover what drove this man to be warrior and pacifist, poet and novelist and also to explore opposing aspects of sexuality, then look no further. A complex character, Sassoon had a good education at Marlborough and Clare College, left university to become a ‘gentleman’ and for seven years idled his time away in country pursuits and literary matters. Diving headlong into a cavalry regiment when the country was gripped with military jingoism must have been an answer to prayers, providing an income and an official occupation, but in due course the reality of trench warfare struck home. Writing poetry became a refuge from the horrors of war, but his well-scripted evocative and poetical accounts of mud, blood and death didn’t sit well with the public of the day. This very readable account delves deeply into his raison d’etre. As an insight into a poet’s life, it doesn’t come any better, as well as setting the scene for all that we will experience in this year of commemoration. Visit our new community www.beds-local.co.uk
Design Consultancy Mistletoe Interiors Emma Rees 07885 135478 info@mistletoeinteriors.co.uk www.mistletoeinteriors.co.uk
Interior and exterior design consultancy, home staging, soft furnishings, lighting, accessories, paints, wallpaper
Electricians
Frank Plater Electrical Extra sockets - Lighting - Extensions - Re-wires Security Lighting - Showers - Inspections No job too small. Free estimates Established 13 years Tel: 01480 432154 Mob: 07976 797111
Security Services
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