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Great Ashby

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May 2015

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Contents Win Tickets to See Craig Charles

The History of Champneys................................................4 Roger Bannister: The Man Behind the Mile......................8 Tobago - The Quieter Side of Paradise............................11 New Forest Adventures..................................................15 Bank Holidays................................................................17 Win Tickets to See Craig Charles.....................................18 Fun Quiz.........................................................................21 On The Run.....................................................................24 Local Oxygen Changes Lives...........................................27 Seasonal Delights...........................................................28 Employment Matters.....................................................31 Editorial - Catherine Rose, Alison Runham, Solange Hando, Tim Saunders, Susan Brookes-Morris, Nooshin Hassan, Carol H Scott, Pippa Greenwood, RSPCA, Katherine Sorrell,James Baggott, Russell Grant and Bruce Edwards Advertising Sales Victoria Tonkinson - 01767 261122 vickie@villagermag.com

The Alabama Hayriders..................................................32 Grow Your Own..............................................................35 Why Buy a Luxurious Bed for your Elderly Dog...............37 Animal Heroes................................................................39 Inspired by the Orient....................................................40 Children’s Page...............................................................42 4x4s...............................................................................44 Puzzle Page....................................................................48 Prize Crossword..............................................................54 What’s On.......................................................................58 Russell Grant’s Horoscopes.............................................60 Book Review..................................................................63

The History of Champneys

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 Design and Artwork provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the Design 9 editorial. No part of this publication may be reproduced or Tel 07762 969460 stored without the express permission of the publisher. To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

History

By Catherine Rose

The History of

Champneys Owned by Mrs Dorothy Purdew OBE and her son Stephen, the well-known Champneys luxury spa resorts celebrates its 90th anniversary this year. With two of its resorts in the rural areas of Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, it maintains its holistic founding philosophy that ‘true beauty can only come through health and wellbeing’.

Over the years, Champneys’ heritage has become synonymous with luxury and its resorts have attracted many celebrities with a combination of pampering treatments, healthy food and fitness. Dorothy Rose Sanders was born on 4th March 1932 in London. During this difficult period her parents, Dick and May, worked hard, and with the onset of World War II and the Blitz, Dorothy was evacuated in her early childhood. Later, after passing all her exams she left school at 14 and started a dress-making apprenticeship. In 1957 she married Robert Purdew and went on to have two children, Stephen and George. She was subsequently inspired to set up her own slimming club business and opened her first club on 25th June 1970 at Frimleys in Northampton. It was a great success and led to over 100 clubs opening throughout the South East. This was to be the beginning of her interest in health and beauty. Hertfordshire A magnificent mansion set in 170 acres of rolling parkland, Champneys Tring, in Hertfordshire was once an elegant English

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stately home owned by the Rothschilds, and the Champneys name originates from Ralph de Champneys who owned the manor in 1307. It was actually first opened as a health farm in 1925 by Stanley Lief, a celebrated naturopath who pioneered the concept of holistic wellbeing. Today, as well as being a health and beauty spa resort, the building is an international college of health and beauty – Champneys College. The college was founded in 1976 and over the past 40 years has become a leading UK training school renowned for its success rates and professionalism in the beauty industry. Although the college enjoys a tranquil park setting, it has excellent transport links to London and major motorways and its reputation - offering the internationally recognised CIDESCO and nationally recognised CIBTAC diplomas - attracts health and beauty students from all over the world. The Purdews acquired Tring in 2002, along with the Champneys name, which led to the rebranding of all the resorts. Although a £14 million refurbishment has recently been completed, including a state-of-the-art gym and cardio-fitness theatre, it retains a delicious hint of history. You can still take tea in the graceful drawing room, play snooker in the games room or roam the manicured grounds. Bedfordshire Henlow Grange is a traditional country retreat nestling in 150 acres of parkland and steeped in history dating back to the 16th Century. Occupied by Cistercian Monks for 330 years, it was later rebuilt in its present Georgian style. Alan Lennox-Boyd, M.P. for Mid-Bedfordshire lived in it with his family from 1936 to 1950. By 1961 when Leida Costigan bought the house, it had been unlived in for many years and was virtually derelict. She converted The Grange into a health farm, with an average of a maximum of just six guests! By the early 1970s, it had become a favourite with celebrities. In September 1981 the Purdew family purchased Henlow Grange at a time when the face of health farms was changing. Dorothy’s son Stephen had a career in accountancy at that time with no intention of working with 6

his parents but when he stepped in to assist for a couple of weeks at the age of 21, it was a move that would prove permanent. Today, he manages the entire Champneys group and has been pivotal in its growth, development and success. In 1985, Henlow was extended to include more than 20 new rooms. Sadly, Robert Purdew died in 1990 and the Cupola Clock Tower at The Grange is dedicated to him. Today, Champneys Henlow has a cosy, comfortable atmosphere, offering beauty treatments that include a paraffin wax bath (a skin-softening treatment) that has been exclusive to Henlow for over 40 years. Following a fire, the resort was reburbished and now includes a Thalassotherapy pool, a Laconium and a Rasul Mud Chamber. After Robert’s death, Dorothy and Stephen continued to run and develop the family business. In 1990 they purchased Springs Health Farm in Leicestershire. As their success continued they expanded the company once again, purchasing Forest Mere in 1995 which subsequently won Spa of the Year two years running. Inspired by Champneys’ therapists, their own brand of spa products was launched in 2004. And in 2008, six Champneys Day Spas also opened across the UK, offering a scaled down version of its beauty treatments and therapies in a local shopping environment, in effect taking Champneys to the high street. That same year Dorothy Purdew was recognised by the Queen in the 2008 birthday honours list, with an OBE for her ‘services to the health spa industry and charity’.

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NE W

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11-17 may

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WWW.THEUNIT-GYM.CO.UK

The Unit Gym, Senate Place, Whitworth Road, Nr Great Ashby, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 4QS

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History

Roger Bannister:

Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk

The Man behind the Mile 6th May 2015 marks the 61st anniversary of Roger Bannister’s ‘four minute mile’. But the last year’s anniversary interviews and publication of his autobiography, Twin Tracks, revealed that the man behind the mile doesn’t want to be remembered solely for his record-breaking achievement. Testing Times - Bannister had enjoyed running at school and chose to study medicine at Oxford because of its record for “creating [runners] who managed to reach the Olympics and... lead full academic and social lives.” He ran 4:52 in the freshman’s mile and competed abroad, delaying his medical exams. But he wanted time for other interests. “I must be the international athlete who trained least,” admits Bannister. He only did “the minimum amount of training [necessary] to improve,” and this attracted criticism. Bannister found competing stressful and avoided competitions as the 1952 Olympics approached, saving himself for Helsinki. “Running was only my secondary interest and I could not afford to spend another four years jeopardising my medical future with this exciting distraction.” However, his training hadn’t prepared him for 1500m heats, semi-finals and a final on consecutive days. His fourth place was a “shattering blow”. The Four Minute Mile - Undeterred, Bannister focussed on the four minute mile. A 4:03.6 Britishrecord-breaking run proved “that the four-minute mile was not out of reach,” and desperate to achieve it before his chief rival, John Landy, he named the day: 6th May 1954. At the Iffley Road track Bannister ran the mile in 3:59.4 seconds, becoming an overnight sensation. Landy broke his record 46 days later, but Bannister beat him at the Commonwealth Games. He retired on a 1500m win at the European Championships, running 3:43.8 – which would have won gold at Helsinki.

Changing Track - “My whole life was medicine. I wanted to become a specialist.” Bannister believed neurology offered the chance to demonstrate “kindness and effectiveness in dealing with patients and clinical problems.” Some fellow professionals doubted his commitment though. “How can Bannister, a mere athlete, probably spoilt... aspire to neurology?” But he let his work speak for him. He focussed on the autonomic nervous system, and founded the Clinical Autonomic Research Society in 1982. He and his colleagues made a host of significant discoveries in autonomic failure, identifying rare disorders, and he has said he would rather be remembered for this work than for his mile. Giving Something Back Chairmanship of the independent Sports Council gave Bannister the chance “to use the experience of both my sports and medical careers; my twin tracks.” He campaigned for random drug-testing and arranged development of a sensitive urinary test for anabolic steroids. “That’s up there with anything I did on the track,” he insists. Meanwhile his successful ‘Sport for All’ campaign encouraged greater sporting participation and access, with the number of multipurpose sports centres rising from 4 to 400. He also chaired the International Council of Sport and Physical Education improving international sporting relations and reducing ethnic and social divisions. A Worthy Legacy - Bannister’s work with the Sports Council laid the foundations for the successful 2012 Olympics and he is rightly proud of all his achievements, but he carried the Olympic torch at the scene of his magic mile (now Bannister Stadium) and acknowledges the fame and opportunity the achievement brought him. So perhaps his legacy is inspiration; to not only set goals, but be prepared to adapt them, and pursue more than one. It’s rather humbling. Evening class, anyone?

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Kitchen | Bedroom | Home Study For all your design, supply and installation needs Family run business

Visit our showroom: Unit E, Gateway 1000, Whittle Way, Arlington Business Park, Stevenage SG1 2FP Tel: 01438 222929

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For A1 quality, service & value we’ve got it covered

CARPETS VINYLS LAMINATES RUGS BLINDS

Established in 2007 and with over 25 years of knowledge in the flooring industry we are well placed to help you choose your new flooring whether it is domestic or commercial flooring. From offices to day nurseries and anything in-between.

a1carpetandﬂooring.com 10-12 The Oval, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 5RB t: 01438 318180 f: 01438 318179 e: mail@a1carpetandﬂooring.com

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Travel

By Solange Hando

Tobago

The quieter side of paradise

At the southern end of the Caribbean, smaller than the Isle of Wight and a world away from its big sister island Trinidad, Tobago is a gem of golden beaches and pristine rainforest with low rise developments mostly confined to the airport area. On this bucolic island, life moves at a gentle pace and little disturbs the peace but the occasional beat of a steel drum in the morning or the call of fishermen hauling their nets on the beach. Goats graze on waste land, men carve calabash into bird feeders and candle holders and on the cliff tops, old colonial forts scatter their ruins among banana and sea grape trees. Even Scarborough, the local capital, seems little more than an overgrown village, sprinkling its pastel-coloured villas on the leafy slopes framing the harbour. Only the arrival of a cruise ship brings a semblance of life on the waterfront. Meanwhile along the coast, blue parrot fish and fire coral glow on the Buccoo Reef and the sun shines on meandering sands and crescent coves, such as the idyllic Englishman’s bay, laid back Castara, beautiful Parlatuvier or Charlotteville, draped in bougainvillaea and famous for fresh fish and ‘cow heel’ soup. Boats bob on crystal-clear water, babbling streams come down to the sea and swaying coconut palms mirror themselves in the lagoons. The north coast is a perfect Caribbean postcard but the south is rugged and wild, sprayed by Atlantic waters, dotted with islands, a few sheltered coves and fishing villages. Just inland from Prince’s Bay, the Argyle waterfall tumbles almost 200 feet into an emerald pool where local women come to

bathe, sitting all dressed in the water. The path is lined with bamboo and teak, mahogany and silk cotton trees rising from massive buttressed roots. Then there’s Speyside, its near-deserted beach and verdant hills, and Little Tobago island, just 20 minutes offshore, where frigate birds hover around precipitous cliffs and in the forest red-billed tropic birds nest on the ground among fallen foliage, fanning their tail as you approach. Tobago is a haven for wildlife, both along the shore and the Main Ridge which rises to over 1600 feet and stretches almost from coast to coast. Prickly palms, trumpet trees, mimosa fern, wild nutmeg, tangled roots and lianas where heliconia add touches of red and gold, the forest is home to myriad creatures, from leaf cutter ants and whistling frogs to whipping spiders, the odd boa constrictor and over 400 species of birds. But what matters in this jungle is not how far you walk but how much you see, here a yellow and black sugar bird, there a white-necked thrush, a blue-backed mannekin, a noisy chacalaca, an iridescent parrot or a humming bird, or a blue-crowned motmot, the ‘king of the forest’. When a sudden breeze sweeps through the canopy, the trees burst into song as a welcome shower of ‘liquid sunshine’ washes everything clean. Later, when the sun dips into the ocean, the pelicans wake from their slumbers, skimming the waves, wings outstretched before diving razor sharp into the deep in search of supper. In the summer months, the giant leatherback turtles return to Tobago Island, ready to nest on their favourite beaches under the starlit Caribbean skies.

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A S Bathrooms are a one stop bathroom shop in which we can supply and fit top brand name products to our customers from our little showroom in STEVENAGE INDOOR MARKET. We have been fitting bathrooms for 23 years and know how to get that showroom finish you are looking for. We have many repeat customers on our books as well as a fantastic reputation. We offer a free design and no obligation quotation service. We are a recommended WHICH trusted trader.

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Travel

New Forest Adventures By Tim Saunders

New Forest artist Claire Wiltsher loves watching how the light dances amongst the forest shadows. She says it becomes a natural cathedral when a backdrop of light comes into play among the trees. It is something we experience while staying in our Premium Lodge at Sandy Balls holiday village. It is so lovely and toasty warm inside the lodge that when we emerge into the chilly cold of the forest it is quite a shock but very refreshing nevertheless. With a bike and trailer from the cycle centre I take my daughters on an early morning ride around the local area while mum Caroline has chance to relax. An extremely good aid to relaxation is the bathroom incorporating a shower and a large corner bath with its water jets that provide a good massage. The beds are also extremely comfortable. This break is all about relaxing for us; we have such a fast paced life that there is generally very little time to do mundane things like curling up and watching television of an afternoon. A real luxury is to have a meal out and The Forest Table restaurant is a fabulous place offering surprisingly good value for money, too. Thumbing through the menu with my chilled Peroni in hand I notice that a coffee and a slice of cake is under £4. Convivial surroundings, friendly and attentive staff and a really buzzing atmosphere with numerous families eating provide a really memorable occasion. Sandy Balls, which has been a holiday village

for over 90 years, provides everything for the holidaymaker. From The Forest Table restaurant to The Woodside Inn pub and takeaway there is something for every budget. There’s even a good value onsite supermarket, The Village Store, so there really is no need to venture into the outside world. And there is plenty to entertain the children too from the Toddlers’ Wood and two indoor play areas through to the outdoor play areas and swimming pool. There are even craft activities laid on throughout the year and this is particularly enjoyed by Harriett and Heidi. It is so nice to be able to spend time with your children seeing them be creative. Sandy Balls runs a programme of weekly activities, including biscuit decorating, fabric painting, working with wood, woodland walks, collage making and bug hunting. Parents wishing to pamper themselves can do just this at the Retreat where they can book a haircut or a massage. It is idyllic setting where unlike many holiday parks there is privacy and the lodges are not overlooked. You really do get a chance to explore the inner oasis of the forest and it is lovely to watch the birds. Stay at Sandy Balls for a week and you will feel rejuvenated. Watch the videos at www.travelwriter.biz Claire Wiltsher’s book Journeys from the Forest to the Sea published by Creative Coverage is available for £9.50 from May 2015.

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Time of Year

Bank Holidays Many of us will rejoice at the thought of two bank holidays during May. UK bank holidays have been in existence since the 1871 Bank Holidays Act when initially four specific days were created as days off. There have been additions over the years including New Years Day in 1974 and the first Monday in May in 1978. An extra bank holiday was created as a one off event in 2011 for the Royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton on 29th April, and in 2012 for the Queens Diamond Jubilee on 5th June. Bank holidays can be declared by statute or Royal proclamation, the latter is also commonly used to move those holidays that would otherwise fall on a weekend to a week day. There is no automatic right to time off on these days but many employers do pay staff to take the day off or if they work they pay them additional wages. There are frequent campaigns for further bank holidays to be added, commonly in relation to

By Susan Brookes-Morris

the main Saints days, St David’s, St Patrick’s, St Andrew’s and St George’s for example. Bank Holidays are now frequently chosen as dates for special events and many will choose to book holiday for the full week that includes a bank holiday in order to spend time with family and friends.

To the tasteful homeowner in pursuit of a thoughtfully designed kitchen and living area. At we understand the pleasure good kitchen design brings to everyday life. From materials, colours, craftsmanship, clever storage and ample worktop space for any size of room, can make your vision for the perfect kitchen real.

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18/03/2015 14:38 17

N O I T I T E P M O C Win Tickets to see

Craig Charles Straight no Chaser & The Pad Presents: CRAIG CHARLES FUNK & SOUL SHOW Bedford Corn Exchange Friday 15 May 2015 Doors 9pm – 2am Live on stage: Nicky Prince & Soul Selecta! DJ Mark Russell (Suburban Beats) Dj Gian (Magic Bus) Room 2: Hammy & Geoff (Northern Soul) Number 13 Bar from 8pm - Robbie Bryson (Too Fly) Robert Marin (Bakura) Rob Gipson (field maneuvers) Craig Charles is bringing his legendary Funk and Soul Club to Bedford for the first time for a night overflowing with groove-ridden-beats, rare-discotreats and soul-jam-shakers for all those dance-floor funksters. Building on sell-out performances at clubs up and down the country, huge headline festival appearances and a prime time radio slot, the Craig Charles Funk and Soul Club guarantees only the funkiest tunes will make it into the best party in town! The legendary actor, host, poet and broadcaster who you will know from his roles in Red Dwarf, Robot Wars and Coronation Street just so happens to be one of the UK’s best loved Funk and Soul DJ’s with a popular primetime Saturday night BBC 6 Music radio show. “When BBC 6Music asked me to do a radio show I only had one condition, it has to be a funk & soul show otherwise I wasn’t interested” Having been broadcasting live every Saturday Night for over 10 years Craig has garnered global support and recognition as one of the UK’s foremost Funk and Soul commentators, DJ’s and promoters of new music whilst still championing the classic golden age funk artists of the 60s and 70s. The list of guests that have featured in The Funk And Soul Show speak for itself........ Gil Scott Heron, James Brown, Paul Weller and Amy Winehouse amongst many hundreds more in a list that just gets better and better each week! After hundreds of successful DJ appearances

at summer festivals across the UK including Glastonbury and Big Chill, club residences in Brighton, London, Bristol, Manchester and Leeds, Craig ‘King of Funk’ Charles has packed up his ‘trunk of funk’ and is heading down the M6 to Bedford to tear the Corn Exchange roof off!! Support on the main stage comes from Bedford’s finest DJ Gian (Magic Bus) and Mark Russell (Suburban Beats) as well a live band Nicki Prince & the Soul Selecta! Further more there are an additional 2 rooms of music with Hammy & Geoff who will be spinning Northern Soul in room 2, and in the Number 13 Pre-show Bar from 8pm onwards the underground ‘Too Fly’ team takeover with dj’s Robbie Bryson, Rob Marin & Rob Gipson. Over 18’s. Craig Charles Set Time is 12-2am Ticket Info: Tickets are £13 advance Outlets: Bedford Corn Exchange 01234 718112 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk www.undergroundtickets.net www.seetickets.com www.onionheart.co.uk (no booking fee) Boutique Planet, Bedford (no booking fee) Mario’s Hair Design, Kempston (no booking fee) www.thepadpresents.com The Villager and Town Life has a pair of tickets to give away for the Craig Charles Event. To enter, simply email editor@villagermag.com with the heading ‘Craig Charles Entry’ and include your name, address and telephone no. A winner will be picked at random. Closing Date: 12th May 2015

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BLADES BARBERS ReDUCeD WAiTing Times nOW With seven team members at BLADes BARBeRs

DUE TO THE SUCCESS of the salon, Brendan, with 28 years of barbering experience, has come a long way having opened the salon in early 2009 initially on his own, he now has seven team members to accommodate customer demand for high quality gent’s hairdressing at Great Ashby in Stevenage. REDUCED WAITING TIMES. Since opening the salon, Brendan has increased the size of his waiting area to provide extra seats, taken on additional highly qualified barbers and is now training a junior team member to the same high standard that customers have come to expect.

Opening Times

monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday saturday sunday

9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 7pm 8am - 6pm 7.30am - 4pm Closed

BLADES BARBERS – is an upmarket salon charging local prices. It is situated in the perfect location at the Neighbourhood Centre in Great Ashby, with FREE AND PLENTIFUL PARKING making the whole experience easy and convenient.

price List no appointment necessary Wet Cut & Blow Dry

£8.50

Wash Cut & Blow dry

£12.50

Clipper Cuts

£6.50

senior Citizens

£6.00

Mon - Thurs 9am - 2pm, over 65 years

Children

£7.50

up to 11 years

Beard Trim Beard Trim

£3.00 £4.50

with cut throat shape up

Lines & patterns prices from

£1.00

Unit 1, st Francis House, Whitehorse Lane, great Ashby neighbourhood Centre, stevenage, sg1 6nH

Tel: 01438 317 482

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Fun Quiz - Slogans 1. What word comes after “inspire a” to give the official slogan for the London 2012 Olympics? 2. Which breakfast cereal has been advertised using the slogan “keeps hunger locked up until lunch”? 3. “We open governments” is the slogan of which company? 4. What initiative was trialled in Northampton in 2003 and rolled out to the rest of Britain in 2004 on the back of an advertising campaign that used the slogan “safety in numbers”? 5. What item appears above the slogan on most “keep calm and carry on” posters? 6. With the slogan “more human than human”, the Tyrell Corporation features in which 1980s film? 7. In 1979, which country introduced a policy known as the “one-child policy”, using slogans to advertise this that translated as “have fewer children, raise more pigs” and “one more baby means one more tomb”? 8. “Good to the last drop” is the slogan of which coffee brand? 9. In the run up to the 2014 Scottish independence referendum, the main group campaigning for a “no” vote changed their slogan from “better together” to what other two word phrase? 10. In which TV series might you come across a fictional drink called Buzz Cola, which has the slogan “twice the sugar, twice the caffeine”?

Before

After

1. Generation 2. Shreddies 3. WikiLeaks 4. Chip and pin (for making secure payments) 5. A crown 6. Blade Runner (the company makes androids) 7. China 8. Maxwell House 9. No thanks 10. The Simpsons

Guess what we’re having?

HALF PRICE SALE COME IN TO SEE THE SAVINGS YOU CAN MAKE SELECTED ITEMS ONLY

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Tel/Fax: 01438 314263 Mobile: 07970 034579 email: sales@oaklandblinds.co.uk WHERE QUALITY MATTERS

Opening Hours: Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat, 9am - 5pm

why not visit our website: www.oaklandblinds.co.uk

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Stevenage airport taxiS

Stevenage Airport Taxis offer the most reliable and professional airport transfer service in and around the Stevenage area. We have several licensed vehicles that can cater for up to 8 passengers. We also provide a transport service for weddings, long distance journeys and any occasion day or night leisure trips. Please visit our website for any bookings or quotations

www.stevenageairporttaxis.co.uk or call

01438 420420 Online Bookings â&#x20AC;˘ Credit Cards Accepted

Paulines Fitness Classes Cardio Blast & Legs, Bums & Tums Exercise to music & Legs, Bums & Tums Saturday Mornings are Coming to Paulines Fitness! Contact me for more details on: 07908969029 or email paulinesfitness@outlook.com or like my Facebook page paulinesfitness 22

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Well Being

On The Run What is it with this running malarky? Everyone seems to be at it, or talking about it. It’s impossible to wander through your local park or residential area without seeing at least a couple of Lycra-clad people, gadgets strapped on to their arms, and a determined look on their face as they dash past in their fluoro-gait-analysis-approved trainers. In the office people can be seen excitedly talking about the training regime they’re doing ahead of the next half-marathon, or exchanging information on the latest protein shakes. Even on the social scene there’s no escape; who’s been out for dinner and

heard someone (A Runner) utter: “it’s got to be an early night for me I’m afraid - I’m doing a race tomorrow…” as they wolf down their meal selected purely based on nutritional content and with complete disregard for flavour (unlike me as I tuck in to my steak, fries and salad). What about those of us for whom the concept of base layers only ever related to nail polish? And who never realised the importance of left and right support socks? What of those of us who see going out for dinner as a treat? Well I’ll tell you. They get to you in the end. It might take time, and you might fool

By Nooshin Hassan

yourself in to thinking you’re just doing a little ‘fast walk’ to the supermarket and that there’s nothing wrong with doing that in your old jogging bottoms, but before you know it you’re signing up for a 10k and wrestling yourself in to the tightest leggings in the world. Of course I jest a little with these extreme descriptions of runners, although we probably all have one friend who is fairly close. We all know that running, jogging or even a brisk walk can be very good exercise when done at the appropriate levels and in the correct way (don’t forget to stretch!). With obesity now a major problem in the UK it’s clear that too many of us are consuming more calories than we are burning off. Since obesity can increase the risk of further health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and certain types of cancer, we should be taking action, and how much easier could it be than stepping outside for twenty minutes? It can be daunting to a nonexerciser to start up running or walking, but just smile at the guys and girls sprinting past wearing all the expensive sportswear and checking their bpm, and focus on your own goal - namely getting some exercise. The pressure to do more and get faster can be high but actually the beauty of running is that it’s all about you; you choose when and where, and you choose your pace. Be warned though; if you start to use phrases such as ‘carb-ing up’, or find you’ve accumulated more running clothes than normal clothes, then you have become ‘A Runner’.

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G re a t A s h b y Podiatry Clinic

General Chiropody and Diabetic Footcare Computerised Gait Analysis and Orthotic Therapy Qualified in Local Analgesia and Nail Surgery Sports Injuries and Musculoskeletal Conditions Treated

Margarete’s Memories

Whatever the occasion express your love with flowers Bespoke floral tributes made to order: Fresh or silk • Funerals • Weddings • Music Festivals • Proms • Table Displays

Gary Webb MChS Podiatrist Tel: 01438 317738 45 Grasmere, Great Ashby

www.garywebbpodiatrist.co.uk www.podiatryandwellbeing.co.uk

Contact: Joanne Tel: 07920 147137 Email: margaretesgd@mail.com

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Local News

Local Oxygen Changes Lives! Breathing pure oxygen is known to help our bodies’ healing process. In particular, many people going through treatment for cancer have found it tremendously helpful. Julia Bradbury is recovering from her second bout of breast cancer and says that the oxygen therapy she received in Letchworth has literally changed her life. “I was first diagnosed with breast cancer five years ago. After surgery and radiotherapy, I thought I’d beaten it,” explains Julia. “But in 2012 it returned.” “I started oxygen treatments to help promote scar healing after my reconstructive surgery,” she adds. “The affect was amazing – it accelerated my hair growth following chemotherapy and gave me loads of energy too!” “I missed my weekly sessions whilst I was on holiday and felt the difference almost immediately. They have literally changed my life by helping my cancer recovery in such a huge way. My cancer hates oxygen!” Mark Boscher from Letchworth’s Oxygen Therapy Service has seen a wide range of people benefit from oxygen treatment. “From physical healing after

Can Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy help you? Who do you know with:

surgery to energy boosts, many people with cancer have felt the benefit of something we all take for granted: oxygen.” “Many people are unaware of the tremendous benefits that breathing oxygen within pressurised conditions - or Hyperbaric Oxygen - can offer.” Part of registered charity the Herts MS Therapy Centre, an experienced, friendly team runs the service. “Our ‘dives’ are closely supervised and everyone is thoroughly screened before using our oxygen chamber,” explains Mark. Do you know someone affected by cancer? Maybe they too could benefit from oxygen treatment. Call Mark or Claire at the Oxygen Therapy Service on 01462 684214 to find out more.

Oxygen Therapy Service

• Cancer? • A neurological condition? • Fibromyalgia? • Sports Injuries? • Diabetic or Leg Ulcers? • TBI? • Broken Bones? • ME/CFS/Extreme Fatigue? Find out if Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can improve your health, accelerate healing, give you more energy. Search online for ‘hyperbaric’ and your condition. This Charity has delivered 60,000 Oxygen Therapy sessions since 1988 – all carefully supervised. Our friendly team responds fast to all enquiries.

Call Mark today on 01462 684214 or email oxygen@hmstc.net

Registered Charity 299524 Hertfordshire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre 30 Campus Five, Letchworth, Herts SG6 2JF www.hertsmstherapy.org.uk

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Food and Drink Serves: 2-4 Ready in: 1 hour

Seasonal Delights Herby Stuffed Baked Tomatoes

Large and juicy beefsteak tomatoes are the perfect shape and size for stuffing and make an economical midweek supper. Serve hot or cold with a crisp green salad drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. INGREDIENTS 4 firm beefsteak tomatoes 3 tbsp Virgin olive oil 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 75g fresh white breadcrumbs 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley 1 tbsp fresh chopped mint 2 tsp capers, drained and rinsed Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1. Preheat the oven to 190C, 375F, Gas 5. 2. Use a sharp knife to slice the tops off the tomatoes and slice a thin sliver from the base of each tomato to prevent them wobbling in the dish. 3. Use a teaspoon to scoop out the seeds and flesh from each tomato. Finely chop and reserve the flesh but discard the seeds. Place the tomato shells in a shallow ovenproof dish. 28

4. Heat half the olive oil in a medium-sized frying pan. Add the chopped onion and fry over a medium-high heat for 5 minutes until beginning to soften. Add the garlic and fry for a further 4-5 minutes until tender and golden. Stir in the chopped tomato flesh, breadcrumbs, parsley, mint and capers and season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper. . Spoon the breadcrumb mixture into the tomato shells, pressing it down gently then top with the lids. Drizzle over the rest of the olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes are just tender. Serve hot or cold. TIP Replace the breadcrumbs with cous cous if liked. Place 115g cous cous in a heatproof bowl and pour over boiling water to cover. Stir once then place a plate on top of the bowl and leave for 10 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed. Fluff up the grains with a fork then stir into the fried onion mixture as above. Add some toasted pine nuts, chopped dried apricots, fresh chopped coriander a little harissa paste for a more exotic flavour.

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LOOKING FOR AN ACCOUNTANT AND A PROFESSIONAL ONE TO ONE SERVICE ? We specialise in Small to Medium size Businesses, Sole Traders & Partnerships • Accounts • Tax Returns • Payroll • Vat For a free quotation and initial meeting call Chris Hughes 01438 362959 Email: chrishugheshb@btconnect.com 30

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Employment

Employment Matters Calculating Holiday Pay The Latest Changes

No one can have failed to read about the latest landmark cases in relation to some employees being paid more than basic salary when calculating holiday pay, so as the holiday season approaches what should be taken into consideration? What overtime should be included? Certain overtime should now be included into average salary for holiday pay and calculated only on the four weeks’ annual leave entitlement. Guaranteed overtime Guaranteed overtime is where the employer is obliged by the contract of employment to offer and pay for agreed overtime. Workers should have their normal guaranteed overtime taken into account when they are being paid annual leave. Non-guaranteed overtime Non-guaranteed overtime is where there is no obligation by the employer to offer overtime but if they do so, then the worker is obliged by the contract of employment to work overtime. Workers should have their normal non-guaranteed overtime taken into account when they are being paid annual leave. NB: Following an Employment Appeal Tribunal decision that holiday pay should now include non-guaranteed overtime in relation to four weeks holiday pay, this decision is binding on the Tribunal but is subject to any appeals although no appeals have been lodged to date. Voluntary Overtime Voluntary overtime is where the employer asks the

worker to work overtime and the worker is free to turn down the request as there is no contractual obligation on either side to offer or refuse overtime. There is currently no case in law to suggest that voluntary overtime needs to be taken into account when calculating holiday pay. How to calculate average pay An employee’s pay while they are on holiday - and when they leave – will be calculated to reflect their average pay over the previous 12 week period. In addition, employers will need to review the records for the past year and where there is not a three month gap between holidays, make retrospective top up payments. Holiday pay and sickness When a worker takes paid or unpaid sick leave, their annual leave continues to accrue. If the worker is unable to take their annual leave in their current leave year because of sickness, they should be allowed to carry that annual leave over until they are able to take it, or they can choose to take a period of annual leave while they are sick and be paid at their usual annual leave rate. Commission Payments The ECJ has ruled that commission must be factored into holiday pay with regards to four weeks leave. This wording has not been added to the UK’s Working Time Regulations yet so at the moment it would be sensible for employers to set aside money to meet any potential liability until this area is more certain. Carol H Scott (HR and Business Consulting Ltd)

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The

Alabama Hayriders Still making hay while the sun shines! Legendary country swing band of the sixties and seventies, the Alabama Hayriders has recently reformed after 36 years and is about to embark on a string of gigs in the local area. Catherine Rose went to meet the five members of the band, who joke that between them, they are now over 300 years old. The Alabama Hayriders were a big name on the country music scene for many years, particularly during the seventies, and in their time, they played the Albert Hall and knew and performed alongside many well-known names in the music and show business industry including Tommy Steele, Charlie Drake, Marty Wilde, Kiki Dee, Peter Noon, Herman’s Hermits and the New Seekers. Their version of ‘Rocky Top’ with its B-side of ‘Easy Loving’ topped the country music charts for weeks. The band’s roots began in the 1950s, formed by US servicemen on the local American bases under the name Johnny and the Hayriders. Then as the members completed their tours of duty and returned home, they were gradually

replaced by country music-loving British musicians including George Brown (who took over the group) and the late Gordon Huntley who left in 1976 and became a respected session player and member of Matthew’s Southern Comfort that had a number one UK record chart hit with ‘Woodstock’. Today, the Alabama Hayriders remains the same line up as in 1976 with John Lindsay on rhythm and vocals (he is also their manager), Mick MacKay on lead guitar, Bryn Sharpe on base and vocals, John Davis on the pedal steel guitar and Terry Vials on drums. All are ‘local lads’ with John Lindsay hailing from Hitchin, Mick from Dunstable, Bryn from Hemel Hempstead, and both John Davis and Terry originally coming from St Neots. Throughout the sixties, the band regularly made live broadcasts with the BBC at the Nashville Rooms in Kensington, later moving to the BBC’s studios at Maida Vale. “We were a household name during the 60s and 70s” says John Lindsay. “We played on BBC Radio Two

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regularly with Wally Whyton’s Country Club produced by Bill Bebb. We also did quite a bit on TV.” John’s wife Iris looked after their wardrobe which included some impressive sequined suits. “We were the smartest band around” says John. The group reckon they must have performed thousands of live gigs over the decades before they went their separate ways at the end of the 70s with a final appearance on Anglia TV. They got a lot of their work through the same agency as the Barron Knights and used to play regularly at Caesars Palace in Luton and Blazer’s Nightclub in Windsor, as well as many other venues and music festivals. They were also on the ‘Fuller’s Circuit’ of pubs. One of their most notable concerts was at Wormwood Scrubs in the early seventies, where Ronnie Biggs and the rest of the ‘great train robbers’ were in the front row. “We never stopped working” says John Lindsay. “We would have ten gigs on the trot.” By 1980 they decided they had had “a good run” and needed a break. Each had other projects they wanted to follow so the members parted ways. John Lindsay went on to run The Chequers pub at Wrestlingworth. It was John Davis who instigated the Alabama Hayriders’ reformation around two to three years ago, setting out to search for all the former band members. Bryn proved the most elusive. They looked for him for ages, eventually tracking him down to a small village outside Swafham. Although sadly, as the group points out, a lot

of their fan base is now gone, their music still appeals to everyone of all ages and they can perform many well-known and loved country tracks. They are also very respected on the music scene: “There are so many musicians who claim to have worked with us” says Terry. “A lot of groups are making comebacks these days” he adds. “During the seventies we were so busy we didn’t know what day it was. Now we can go back to it, relax and enjoy it.” However, they have found that the music industry has changed a lot in their absence, and not necessarily for the better. “It’s hard to get into the country circuit now” says John Lindsay. “Venues are booked up for a year in advance with someone on a guitar and a few backing tracks.” There is no doubt that the amiable five-piece are traditional and experienced musicians and live performing is clearly in their blood. “We are not going to go away quietly” says Terry. John Davis agrees, saying: “We come alive at a gig”. The Alabama Hayriders will be performing free at the following venues: 7th June - The Oddfellows Arms, Apsley, 4.30pm 27th June - The Plough at Langford, 8.30pm 4th July - Opening Langford Fete at 1pm 13th September - Goodwill Day to raise money for local causes at The Chequers in Wrestlingworth, 12pm The group is also available for charity performances. You can check them out on www.youtube.com.

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For a free no-obligation site visit, please call Ian Clemson on

tel: 01462 757059 www.colourfenceherts.co.uk 34

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Garden

Grow Your Own By Pippa Greenwood www.pippagreenwood.com I’m a great fan of home grown vegetables, particularly as growing my own allows me to choose to eat only organically grown fruit and vegetables, which are free from chemical pesticides. Even if you only have a tiny patio garden or backyard, you can brighten up your supper table with some good looking vegetables, home grown in containers. It is important to use large containers. Smaller ones may look fine but most vegetables need an evenly moist compost around their roots at all times, and so a larger volume of compost is much easier to look after. They will need to be positioned in a sunny spot as vegetables won’t crop well in a gloomy position. Growing bags will do but they don’t exactly look good. In addition, they often seem to contain pretty poor compost and, when it comes to keeping growing bags adequately watered, they are nothing short of a nightmare. Large flower pots or planters are the best bet, and you can use terracotta, plastic or glazed pots. Make sure that the containers are well supplied with drainage holes, and that you have a layer of broken pots on top. I suggest using either a standard multi-purpose or a multi-purpose compost mixed with a loam based compost – both produce good crops and are fairly easy to maintain. You can incorporate some controlled release fertiliser granules or feed regularly with a liquid feed. There are lots of different vegetables that can be grown in containers but sometimes getting the right variety can make all the difference to how well they perform. Check labels or seed catalogues as those particularly well suited to life in a pot are described as so. If you like home grown beans you can use

any variety of dwarf French bean, or if you prefer, a runner. The miniature runner, ‘Hestia’, has pretty red and white flowers and doesn’t need a support to climb. Cucumbers can be grown in pots; choose a variety such as ‘Patio Pick’ which should manage to crop well despite its small size. Provided you have a large and deep container then courgettes are also worth a try, and do remember to keep them well fed. If you like hot pepper and have a sheltered, warm spot then try the crazy looking, heavy cropping ‘Medusa’ or the pretty but hot ‘Etna’. Salad crops can all be grown in a growing bag or other container, and are guaranteed to look good. For some really wacky colour try growing the richred stemmed Ruby Chard or ‘Bright Lights’ chard with stems in pink, orange, red, yellow and white. When it comes to maintenance, remember that anything growing in a pot needs more TLC as its roots will not be able to tap into the further reaches of the soil to find moisture and nutrients. Plenty of food and water is a must, and I tend to use a high potash liquid tomato feed, which works a treat. To keep your pots free from slug and snail attacks, try using sticky-backed copper tape stuck in a complete ring around the top of the pot or planter. Once everything is growing well and cropping, don’t forget to pick patio veg regularly if you want the plants to keep cropping. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ veg growing system, biological controls, fleece, copper tape and lots more besides.

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We don’t aim to save you pennies - just £’s Stunning new range of garden furniture, soft weave, mesh and bistro sets all at pre-season SALE prices

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NEWEST CAKE CRAFT SHOP Bedfordshire’s BEDFORDSHIRE’SSugar Craft Shop Largest Tuesdaycakes, - Saturday For all yourOpen needs in9am-5pm decorating celebration Cupcakes etc. Cakecraft Shop Ribbons10am-4pm Sunday • Closed Mondays • Patchwork Cutters • Karen Davis Moulds

ABC Moulds • PME • Flower Paste • Stand Hire

All your needsTininHire decorating celebration cakes,help cupcakes etc. • Books etc… With friendly and advice. Professional quality icing. Special offer on all cake boards. Stand and tin hire. Celebration & Wedding cakes made to order Special offer: Renshaws white newA1 covering sugarpaste only £3 per kilo Based at Seddington Nursery, Northbound (while stock lasts) between Biggleswade/Sandy SG19 1NZ Flower and modelling classes now being booked for April Tel: 01767 680 983 in our special built classroom. Open 9.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m EVENING APPOINTMENTS BY ARRANGEMENT. |

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Pets

Why a Luxurious Bed

is Important for your Elderly Dog A comfortable place to rest their head, extra support for arthritic bones and a little extra TLC - dogs need all of these things as they grow old. You can make their twilight years a happy time for both of you simply by being aware of the issues they face, and what you can do to help. An orthopaedic bed with a memory foam mattress will support their joints by moulding itself around them, helping with blood circulation and providing a comfortable place to rest. Problems such as hip dysplasia often show themselves in middle age, so even if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t consider your dog to be elderly, it may be worthwhile investing in this type of bed. What types of luxury beds are there? Self-heating - Metallised insulation is placed below the lining, and radiates heat. Covered with a sheepskin or fleece outer layer, this would have therapeutic benefits particularly if your house is

draughty. Elevated - On the theme of draughty houses an elevated bed keeps your dog away from a cold floor, and is available in a range of sizes. Luxury materials - One of the most important considerations is the material used to make the bed and mattress. You can buy alpaca fibre and soft fleece fillings, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also important to think about practicality, so zip-off covers should be a priority to maintain hygiene. A luxurious place to sleep is important for dogs of all ages, but particularly so for those in their later years.

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REDTAIL PEST CONTROL For All Your Pest Control Needs All Pest Species Dealt With BPCA (1&2) Qualified Member of the NPTA Basis Prompt Registered Very Reasonable Prices CRB checked Contact

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Pets

Animal Heroes Be a hero – leave a legacy While thinking, talking and planning for your own death may feel uncomfortable, you need to consider how much worse the situation would be if you died or became incapacitated – through illness, accident, old age or emergency – without sorting it. So, please just take a deep breath and get a Will organised. Not only can you make life easier for your friends, your own pets and your family; you can also make a huge difference to a charity too. A gift in your Will can help the RSPCA be here for animals in the future, every single day. We’re the only organisation that is here for all animals in England and Wales, and over half of our work is paid for by gifts people leave to us in their Wills. A gift in your Will, however small or large, can help ensure we can always be here for animals, protecting them and giving them new beginnings. Over the years, gifts have helped the RSPCA build and maintain our animal centres and hospitals. Today, these gifts are as vital as ever, allowing us to invest in essential new facilities like an on-site veterinary suite at Blackberry Farm Animal Centre in Aylesbury. As well as preparing animals for rehoming, Blackberry Farm looks after case animals, whose owners are awaiting court verdicts. This can mean long periods of kennel and cattery time for animals that have already been through a great deal. At any one time Blackberry Farm can be responsible for the care of more than 200 domestic animals.

The RSPCA Bedfordshire North Branch is a small independent animal charity working under the guidance of the national RSPCA. Like other branches, it is self-funding and raises money locally to support the animal welfare work it performs. The branch doesn’t have a rescue centre and relies largely on the generosity of volunteer foster carers who provide a safe place for the animals that the national RSPCA Inspectors collect and rescue. Two charity shops in Bedford – on the High Street, and in Thurlow Street – help raise funds – so donations are always needed. In the future, when an animal comes to us hungry or neglected, a gift in your Will can mean we are able to care for them. If they come to us injured, we can treat them and help them recover. If they come to us having endured fear or trauma we can help them rebuild their trust and begin a new life. These days, the process of making or amending a Will is relatively straightforward. Find out how you can remember the RSPCA in your Will by looking on our website: www.rspca.org.uk. By specifically naming the RSPCA Bedfordshire North Branch in your Will, you can ensure that your gift goes directly to local animals. We, and local animals in need, thank you for your support.

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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Home Interiors

Inspired

by the Orient Furnishings and accessories from the Far East seemed wonderfully exotic when they first arrived here centuries ago. Now silk and lacquer, blue-and-white china and bamboo have become a highlight of our interiors, says Katherine Sorrell. Exciting, mysterious, irresistible… rumours of the treasures of the East encouraged 16th century Western explorers to push back the boundaries of the known world, but it was not until the late 17th century that the English East India Company secured its trading post in Taiwan and began to trade regularly with China. Tea was the first import of significance, and raw silk, too; while buying and displaying costly furnishings from afar became a way for the higher echelons of society to show off their wealth and importance. The ‘Chinese room’ was a feature of many a stately home, from Chatsworth to the Prince Regent’s Royal Pavilion in Brighton, the latter an extraordinary Orientalstyle palace, crammed with objects and furniture from China. As time went on, not only did Chinese factories begin to fuse European and native styles to suit their buyers’ tastes, but also English designers and craftspeople began to imitate Oriental designs. Thomas Chippendale was one well-known example, employing latticework and lacquer in his influential furniture pattern books. And then came another enormous shift in style when, in 1854, Japan resumed trade with the West after a break of more than two centuries. Europe was flooded with imports: everything from bronzes and silks to kimonos, lacquers, fans and woodblock prints (the latter a huge influence on Impressionist painting and the Art Nouveau movement). Christopher Dresser was the first European designer to visit Japan after 1854, and both his book on the country’s art, design and architecture and his own designs for textiles, wall coverings, ceramics, glassware and metalware helped perpetuate the fashion for Japonisme at the end of the 19th century.

The fashion for Eastern objects and designs had taken firm hold, and eventually percolated down from the piles of the aristocracy to reach ordinary people’s homes. Take the almost ubiquitous Willow Pattern, for example, which has been found in households up and down the country since the early 19th century. And who these days does not own a piece of blue and white porcelain, a ginger jar, a Chinese rug, a ‘coolie’ style lampshade or a rattan side table, for example? Oriental-inspired fabrics, wallpapers, furniture and accessories can be used to make a statement in any room, or can blend gently into an eclectic interior, while the colours – rich, warm red, gorgeous blues, yellows and greens, touches of black and highlight of gold – are highly appealing and can be employed as subtle touches or all-over schemes. Whether it be a precious, hand-made antique, an item specially mass-produced for the European market or a Western item that has been influenced by Oriental designs, we love to incorporate beautiful pieces that demonstrate the craftsmanship, the materials and the styles that have become symbolic of Eastern cultures… just like the aristocrats of the 17th and 18th centuries. Fashions may come and go, but Oriental style has become a timeless staple.

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Business gone slow? Let us help!

TYNEHILL Boarding Kennels and Cattery

The kennels your dog would choose! 10% discount for new customers • • • • • • •

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www.tynehillkennelsandcattery.co.uk 01462 850606

and Old Town Directory is easy. To find out more call Victoria on

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Shillington Road, Lower Stondon, Beds, SG16 6JX

It’s a D g’s Life Professional Dog Grooming Fully Insured. City and Guilds qualified.

Grooming Services: Nail Trimming and Ear Cleaning Bath and Blow Dry Full Groom Hand Stripping 1st Puppy Bath Free (up to 4 months) Health Check I have a variety of shampoos to suit individual needs. A quick spray of cologne and your pet will come home smelling wonderful.

Other Services: Are there times when you need help with your pet? Have you got an unusually long day away from home? Are you out all day? I can help....dog walking or home visits to allow a toilet break or to give food. Please call to discuss your requirements. I look forward to hearing from you.

Call Christina Valentine on 07717 077502

223 Cleveland Way, Great Ashby, Stevenage Herts SG1 6BX To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

n d i hby e s Ba at As e Gr 41

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Chells Manor Pre-School and Nursery Open – Monday to Friday 9.15am – 12.15pm Lunch club available everyday 12.15pm – 1pm

Registration now open for September 2015 2, 3 and 4 year old funding available Please contact Jackie on 01438 748792 Email: chellsmanorpreschool@gmail.com Chells Manor Community Centre, 12 Emperors Gate, Stevenage To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

4x4s

Motoring

By James Baggott, editor of Car Dealer Magazine (CarDealerMag.co.uk) The extent of your off-roading might simply be bumping up the kerb outside school, but it’s always nice to know the car of your choice can handle the rough stuff should you ever need it to. Here we’ve listed our favourite off-roaders. They’re all fully equipped to take you off the beaten track should you want them to, but are just as prepared when it comes to getting your family home safely on icy roads. Honda CR-V The Honda CR-V makes a great case for family buyers – and it’s just as capable of hitting the road less travelled. Stylish looks and new efficient diesel engines, capable of up to 62.8mpg, make this 4x4 extremely appealing. Combine that with masses of boot space, folding rear seats for extra flexibility and extensive safety features, and it’s ideal for a growing family.

Volvo XC90 New to the market in 2014, the Volvo XC90 has already made a massive impression. A striking and stylish car to make any Range Rover driver think twice, it’s packed with Volvo’s latest safety and crash-prevention technology. Space is generous inside, with seats that can fold in various formations to suit your needs. It doesn’t come cheap though! Mini Countryman If you want quirky styling but aren’t looking for a huge SUV, look no further than the Mini Countryman. It offers five seats, five doors and enough space to swing a very small cat. It might not be the most practical car for five adults but you’ll fit in, while all-wheel drive means you can take this Mini off-road where it’s surprisingly capable.

Suzuki Grand Vitara The Suzuki Grand Vitara will please those buyers looking for value for money and practicality. It’s cheaper than most of its rivals and this year’s model will be available from £14,000. For their money, owners get loads of interior space, plus a decent level of safety and tech kit. It’s rugged and performs well off road, but those considering it should opt for the more economical diesel engine. Kia Sportage The Kia Sportage might not offer top-level quality, but it’s still spacious and comfortable enough for driving everyday. Running costs are extremely reasonable and those opting for the 1.7-litre diesel engine will be able to achieve a reasonable 54.3mpg. Kia’s seven-year warranty makes this car, with prices starting from £17,500, even more appealing.

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UNIT 5A, THE NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE, WHITEHORSE LANE, STEVENAGE SG1 6NH TEL: 01438 368024 EMAIL: greatashbydrycleaners@gmail.com

• High Quality Dry Cleaning • Latest State-Of-The-Art Machinery and Equipment • Highly Trained and Qualified Operators • Fully Compliant With European Environmental Legislation Dry Cleaning Two Piece Suits - from £9.50 Trousers - from £4.40 Jackets - from £5.95 Shirts - from £2.95 Knitwear - from £4.50 Dress (Plain) - from £6.00 Skirts - from £4.95

Price List

Alteration Shorten Trousers - from £9.00 Waist Take In/Out - from £11.00 Trouser Zip - from £9.50 Duvets Single (Polyester Filling) - from £12.50 Double (Polyester Filling) - from £15.00 King Size (Polyester Filling) - from £18.00

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Painters and Decorators Premier Painters and Decorators are a professional, punctual and hard working company delivering outstanding quality of work to our clients in and around Stevenage From wallpaper hanging, feature walls, coving and cornice work. We even clean facias, soffits and guttering. (PVC or Wood) If you would like to take advantage of our services, require a quote or advise please do not hesitate to contact us. Be assured when Premier quote a job there are NO HIDDEN EXTRAS. Private and commercial, exterior and interior painting services.

For a free quotation please contact Gary on Tel: 01438 230943 Mob: 07733 227961 Email: info@premierpd.co.uk

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Codeword 1

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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WINDOW REPAIRS

Serving all of Herts - Based in Stevenage Specialising in replacing misted units

BEFORE AFTER email: info@jmlwindows.co.uk website: www.jmlwindows.co.uk 07977 911 926 / 01438 906300 • Misted/broken double glazed units • Sticking doors or windows adjusted • Broken/loose handles • Leaded or Georgian units replaced • Hinges for gapping windows • Leaks ﬁxed • All types of locks replaced • Energy saving Planitherm glass • Cat/dog ﬂaps in glass or panels • Door re-alignments Visit our website for over 30 customer reviews To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

Building, Roofing Maintenance

• General building • Roofing and roof repairs • Roof windows supplied and fitted • Carpentry • Repairs and Maintenance • Brickwork • Renovations • Flat roofing • Block paving • Kitchens and Bathrooms

• • • • • • • • • •

Concreting Site clearance Patios Fencing Guttering Decking Cabins and Sheds Tiling Fascias and Soffits Flooring supplied and fitted • Garden sleeper walls

Free non obligatory Call Russell on Tel 01462 625690/07960 967937 quotes Email: homeworxbuild@outlook.com Homeworx.indd 1

07/04/2015 15:39

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HERTFORD TV SERVICE Tel: 01992 552955 www.hertfordtvservice.co.uk

• • • • • • • • •

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n i t l h F e o J Plasterersam

Female Plasterer specialising in: Plastering, Plasterboarding Rendering, Making Good, Painting

A FRIENDLY FAMILY FIRM. FREE QUOTATIONS

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Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossword, Codeword and Suduko Solutions Last Monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossword Winner Mr P Colt from Hitchin

Easy

Hard

HERTS OVEN CLEAN Herts Oven Clean is a domestic oven cleaning specialist in Hertfordshire. Non-caustic, fume-free solution individually prepared for each customer. Ovens, Hobs, Grills, Extractors, Agas, Microwaves and Gas Barbeques. Call Richard on 01438 813492 Bring a sparkle to your kitchen today. To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

The Villager Prize Crossword

Prize

ÂŁ25

Across 1 Small tunnel (6) 4 Rubbed out (6) 9 Stretchy (7) 10 Young females (5) 11 Type of music (5) 12 External (7) 13 Translated (11) 18 Window covering (7) 20 Nip (5) 22 Smell (5) 23 Passion (7) 24 Female relation (6) 25 Harsh (6) Down 2 Highways (5) 3 Result (7) 5 Correct (5) 6 Outlive (7)

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

15th May 2015 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

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1 Combines (6)

7 Bowls (6) 8 Escorted (11) 14 Becomes thinner (7) 15 Blow up (7) 16 Reverberates (6) 17 Alter (6) 19 Consent (5) 21 Innocent (5)

Name: Tel: Address:

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“Quality is not expensive, it’s priceless”

Extensions, Refurbishments, Loft and Garage Conversions, Landscaping and General Building Internal and external work with many local references View our testimonials at www.hertfordshirebuilders.co.uk

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Architect drawings and planning applications catered for Estimates and ideas FREE

www.hertfordshirebuilders.co.uk Call Richard on 07818 061505 To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

Dot Electrical

Fast, Reliable, Fully Qualified Electricians 24 hour service, 7 days a week We offer a range of electrical services covering both domestic and industrial: Rewires, New installations, Garden lighting and power, Intruder alarms, CCTV, Security lighting, Fuse box upgrades Recessed lighting, Central heating systems Electric showers, Fault finding, Solar energy

Tel: 07854738740 / 07516 256241 Email: dot-electrical@hotmail.co.uk Web: www.dotelectrical.co.uk

Visit our beautiful

Bathroom Showroom ...With more than 50 displays of bathrooms, furniture & fittings Free in-house 3D design service Quality products from leading manufacturers Experienced staff offering impartial advice Free delivery within a 20 mile radius of our showroom

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bathrooms@stevenageplumbing.co.uk www.stevenageplumbing.co.uk

Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS 56

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To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122

n O s ’ t Wha In May 17 February-7 July Jill Grey - Life & Legacy Exhibition See website for opening times British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin, SG4 2TS Collector, Curator, Code Breaker, Correspondent and Campaigner, Jill’s story, told mainly in her own words. A truly remarkable life. Tel: 01462 420144 Web: www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk

4 May May Day Celebrations at the British 10.30am-12.30pm British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin Free admission Fun for the Bank Holiday: Maypole & Country Dancing, plus a visit by Offley Morris Men. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Tel: 01462 420144 Web: http://britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk

1 May Allegri Quartet 8pm Benslow Music, Hitchin Tickets: £12, Free entry for under 27s Haydn: String Quartet Op 1 No 3. Mendelssohn: String Quartet Op 1 No 12. Schubert: String Quartet No 15 D887. Tel: Box Office 01462 459446

4, 11, 18 & 25 May Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-11pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Branch Out is a medium-sized social club for single people and meets every Monday night. It was formed in 1995 to bring together single, divorced, widowed and separated people, aged 40 upwards, from the Herts, Beds and Bucks area, to socialise and enjoy one another’s company. The club organises regular events. Web: www. branch-out.org.uk

2 May The Signals Museum 10am-4pm The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open to the public. Entry is free but official photo ID is required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom. www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 2 May May Day Celebrations 10.30am-12.30pm British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin Free admission Family Fun for the Bank Holiday. Maypole & Country Dancing, plus a visit by Offley Morris Men. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Tel: Contact 01462 420144 Web: www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk 3 May National Dawn Chorus Day 5.30-8am RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy AExperience the magic of an English woodland as it wakes up and comes alive with the sound of birdsong at Dawn. Enjoy a tasty full English breakfast after the walk. Vegetarian option available, please advise on booking. Book and pay in advance essential. www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge

6 May 2015 Liners and passenger ships sunk by U-boats in the First World War 7pm for 7.30pm The Comrades Club, Godmanchester The Cambridgeshire branch of the Western Front Association is pleased to present a talk by David Gray. Non WFA members most welcome. A small donation is encouraged at the door to pay for the running of the branch. Web: www. westernfrontassociation.com 6 May North Herts Association of National Trust 7.30pm and 8pm Christchurch, Bedford Road, Hitchin, SG5 1HF Non-members £2 7.30pm AGM. 8pm ‘Art & the Inspiration behind the Manor House at Stevington’ by Kathy Brown. Tel Colette House 01462 815585 Web: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nhertfordassoc

6 May-30 September Luton Hoo Walled Garden 11am-3pm Luton Hoo, LU1 4LF Entry £5 including guided tour Open every Wednesday. Guided tour times: 11.30am, 12.30pm and 2pm. Purchase produce from the Garden Stall. Enjoy a light lunch in beautiful surroundings of homemade cakes, snacks and savouries. Please pre-book dedicated tours for more than 15 people. Tel: 01582 721443 Web: www.lutonhooestate.co.uk 7, 9 & 10 May Binocular and Telescope Event 10am--4pm RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy Impartial, friendly advice on choosing the best binoculars, telescopes and accessories to suit your needs. Take your time comparing the different models and try them outdoors. Some of these open days are run with Viking Optical. www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge 7, 14, 21 & 28 May Sapphire Social Club 8.30pm Meet in Hitchin This social club caters for the unattached aged 50+ with varied events during the month. No joining fee for the first two months. Tel: Joyce 07960 440417 Web: www. sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk 8 May Red Diesel - Live Covers Band Doors open 7.30pm Clifton Community Centre, Whiston Crescent, Clifton Tickets £6 Red Diesel play popular cover tunes from the 60’s to the present day, from artists such as The Beatles, Jimmy Hendrix, Oasis, James, Blur, Pharrell Williams plus loads more! Book your tickets NOW! Tel: Jane 01462 811967 8 & 9 May “When the Lights Go On Again” Curtain up 7.45pm Meppershall Village Hall Tickets £10 (no Concessions) including food Meppershall Players Present “When the Lights Go On Again”. A Musical Play commemorating and celebrating the 70th anniversary of V.E. Day. Tickets available from Roger’s Bakery 01462 813398.

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n O s ’ t Wha In May 9 May Chiltern West Gallery Quire Concert 7.30pm St Mary’s Church, Baldock Tickets £10 including interval drink The Chiltern West Gallery Quire sings and plays music heard in the 18th and early 19th centuries. We perform in costume including dance and march tunes from N Herts and Beds as well as church and folk melodies! Book online or by phone. In aid of Church Building Repair Fund. Tel: Tickets 01462 892838 Web: www.cwgq.co.uk 10 May Ashwell at Home 2015 11am-5pm Entry by programme: £6 adults, Under 18s free Open gardens, free children’s workshops, live music, veteran cycles, Morris Dancing, cow milking, funfair, lunches & teas and much more. Programmes available in advance from the website. Free parking. Web: www.ashwellathome.org.uk 11 May Icknield Quilters 7.30pm for 7.45pm start Baldock Community Centre, Simpson Drive, Baldock SG7 6DH Cost £4 Speaker is Kate Finch - “Finkstuff”. Visitors welcome. Web: www.icknieldquilters.co.uk 16 May Nursery Rhymes 10am-1pm British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin May’s drop-in activity session is Nursery Rhymes. We love Nursery Rhymes. What about you? Follow our nursery rhyme trail and join us for nursery rhymes at 11.00 and 12.00. Ideal for younger visitors and their adults, but all are welcome. Tel: 01462 420144 Web: http://britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk 16 May Bedford Brass 7.30pm St Andrew’s Church, Langford Tickets £8 including light refreshments Friends of St Andrew’s Church invite you to an evening with Bedford Brass. Tel: Jim 01462 700355 or 01462 634698 for information and tickets

16 May Meppershall Festival 2015 1.45pm onwards Meppershall Village Hall, Beds SG17 5LX Now in its 6th year, this popular local community event will once again showcase local talents. Street Dance 1.45pm for 2-3pm session where children and young people can take part in street dance session with qualified instructions from Rodney’s School of Dance. £1.50 per person. Folk Dance 3.30-4.45 pm - led by the Staplers, Hitchin. Come and give it a go, no experience necessary. Adults £3, Up to 17 years £1.50. Discount for families and groups of 4 or more. Refreshments of tea, coffee and cake from the famous St Mary’s Church tea team will be available during the afternoon. Come and watch the dancing and have a chat with friends. Meppershall Musical Concert 7.30pm. Adults £4.00, Up to 17 years £2.50. Tickets available from 20 April from the Post Office and Roger’s Bakery. 17 May Biggleswade Antiques Fair 9.30am-4pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Entrance £1.50 This antiques fair offers a diverse range of antiques and collectables so whether you are a professional dealer, an avid collector or just looking for something special, this monthly fair is the place to visit. Café serving breakfast, lunches and afternoon tea. Tel: 01480 382432 Web: www.madisonevents.co.uk 17 May Birds for Beginners 10.30am-12.30pm RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy Adults £6, RSPB Members £4, Children £3, RSPB Wildlife Explorers £2, car park and entrance charge applies to non-members Our ever popular walk. Discover how to identify the birds that you see on your walks and in your gardens, and how to get the best out of your optics. Booking highly recommended limited numbers. www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge

21 May Sandy Horticultural Association 7.30pm Sandy Village Hall Members £2.50, Visitors £3.50 Talk entitled ‘Dig For Victory’ with well-known speaker Russell Bowes. Optional two course meal afterwards £7 per person. Please telephone to book meal. Tel: 01767 680983/01767 681457 Web: www.sandyshow.org 25-31 May Springwatch Trail RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy Cost £1 per trail sheet plus car park and entrance fee for non-RSPB members Come and discover our trail that will get you finding out about wildlife and nature at The Lodge nature reserve. www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge 28 May Victorian Child 10.30am-2pm (last admission 1pm) British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin £4 per child, Adults free Drop into the Museum and find out what it was like to be a Victorian Child. Try some washing and cleaning in our Victorian house. Knitting, and games that children played in the past. Even go back to school with pen and ink and slates! Tel: 01462 420144 Web: http://britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk 29 May Bingham Quartet 8pm Benslow Music, Hitchin Tickets: £12, Free entry for under 27s Philip glass: String Quartet No 2 ‘Company’. Lutosławski: String Quartet. Mendelssohn: String Quartet Op 44 No 1. Tel: Box Office 01462 459446 31 May Spring and Artists Fair 10am-5pm RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy The Spring Fair is set in the grounds of The RSPB headquarters. Treat yourself to exciting gifts, arts, crafts, plants and produce and visit the Beds Artists Network zone with some fun art workshops and activities for the children. Refreshments for sale. Some small charges for activities. www.rspb.org.uk/thelodge

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Russell Grant’s

Horoscopes

AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th

LEO July 24th - August 23rd

PISCES February 20th - March 20th

VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd

The Full Moon on the 4th brings an aggravating situation at work. Money becomes available on the 6th. The New Moon on the 18th is ideal for buying a home, signing a lease, or expanding your current abode.

The Full Moon on the 4th forces you to cancel a trip or settle a lawsuit. The 16th will prove wonderfully romantic. The New Moon on the 18th will be equally gratifying. You’ll feel pressured to spend money on home improvements during the second half of May.

ARIES March 21st - April 20th

The Full Moon on the 4th forces you to juggle your finances but the New Moon on the 18th brings more money. Organisation won’t be your strongest suit around the end of the month.

TAURUS April 21st - May 21st

The Full Moon on the 4th forces you to make some radical changes to a close relationship. The New Moon on the 18th is perfect for improving your appearance.

GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st

The Full Moon on the 4th brings an end to a difficult work assignment. It will be difficult to make a logical decision on the 9th; choose your heart over your head. The New Moon on the 18th invites you to relax and rejuvenate.

CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd

Don’t discuss your private life at work in early May. The Full Moon on the 4th marks a turning point in a romantic relationship. The New Moon on the 18th is ideal for social pursuits.

The Full Moon on the 4th forces you to take care of some domestic problems. Your boss will have high praise for you. If you’re unemployed, take this opportunity to apply for work.

Juggling your personal and professional lives will be a source of strain. Don’t neglect your family. The New Moon on the 18th is ideal for scheduling an overseas trip.

LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd

The Full Moon on the 4th brings disappointing news about money. A good job is within your grasp. It will be necessary to get additional training as May turns to June.

SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd

Take the opportunity to ask for a favour, apply for a grant, or go on a first date on the 6th. The New Moon on the 18th finds you celebrating an engagement, wedding, commitment ceremony or business partnership.

SAGITTARIUS November 23rd - December 21st

The Full Moon on the 4th brings an embarrassing secret to light. The New Moon on the 18th is perfect for landing a steady job. Be more attentive to your best friend or lover as May draws to a close.

CAPRICORN December 22nd - January 20th

May finds you in a rather gloomy mood. The Full Moon on the 4th prompts you to leave an organisation. Fortunately, your love life will shimmer with excitement on the 5th.

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Feel Healthy...FeelClean Professional Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

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Carpet Cleaning • Leather Cleaning • Upholstery Cleaning Rug Cleaning • Stain Removals • Anti-Stain Treatments ...a clean car pet is a healthy car pet.

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Call Phil today for your free no-obligation survey 100% NO Risk - NCCA Members and Fully Insured Professional cleaning at Clients are saying: affordable prices “Phil has recently been to professionally clean my carpets for the second time. He is an honest and professional gentleman and I have no hesitation in No VAT recommending him and his company to anyone and will definitely be using Money Back Guarantee his services again” M.S...., Gt. Ashby Credit and debit cards accepted

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SHIRON

Domestic Appliances Repairs of

Washing Machines Tumble Dryers Dishwashers Electric Ovens Electric Cookers Microwaves Vacuum Cleaners and all domestic appliances. VAT Registered. Specialist in Hotpoint, Indesit, Ariston, Creda and Whirlpool appliances.

Contact RONNIE Tel: 01438 720 304 Mobile: 07739 922493

I D Decorating Painting & Decorating Services Painting â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Interior & Exterior Decorating Coving No Job Too Big Or Too Small Fully Insured & Free Estimates Telephone: Ian Dunklin 0790 508 3799

gas safe registered

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Books

CM ROOFING Book Review By Bruce Edwards Family run business Est. 20 yrs • • • • • • • • • • •

Repairs & Re-roof Lead Specialists Slating & Tiling Guttering and Drainage Gutter Clearing Fascias & Soffits UPVC Wall Cladding Moss Removal Flat Roofing Single Ply/3 Layer Felt Liquid Plastics

We will beat any written quotation For more information & free estimate

01438 517166 / 07432 624335 chrismead.roofing@yahoo.co.uk www.cm-roofing.co.uk

Property Maintenance Premier Property Maintenance is a multiple trade company operating in and around Hertfordshire and north London. We are a well organized management team with a professional approach to Client Liaison, Supervision and Health and Safety. We operate with a versatile in-house work force with various specialist trades, which results in our ability to provide our Client’s with an ‘all-trades’ service. We pride ourselves on delivering a competitive quality service to new and existing Clients. Premier Property Maintenance offers a comprehensive range of services including;  Fully managed bathroom and kitchen installation  Electrical and plumbing certificates for landlords  All aspects of electrical work covered by NIC installers  Plumbing and heating engineer  All aspects of carpentry work covered  Wall and floor tiling  Plastering and cornice work

 Painting and decorating including wallpaper  Roofing - slate and tiled  Brickwork  Laying of laminate and wooden flooring  Conservatory project manage and installation  Fully project managed garden landscaping  Window and conservatory cleaning

www.premierpm.co.uk info@premierpm.co.uk 01438 230943 / 07531 229067

There Will Be Better Days Elizabeth Waite Pub: Sphere p/b £7 .99 ISBN: 978-0-75155690-2

Better days indeed, for Chloe; for whether seen as protagonist or heroine, she’s a lucky, lucky girl. From a back street childhood where life can be appalling, she vows not to succumb to the grot and becomes the ‘P.A’ to a charmer of a boss who’s charmed by her youthful innocence. She ends up with a small fortune as a reward for her ‘indiscretions’ (euphemism!) when he decides to end his invalid wife’s suffering and commits suicide thereafter. A twist of fate provides her with yes, another lover of influence. You’ll perhaps know (if from hearsay rather than actuality) something of how “fifty somethings of an indeterminate colour” works - well, our Chloe (a far nicer girl) goes through a wardrobe of dresses and undies which seem to fall off or get removed without the trauma. Perhaps the intriguing aspect to this tale is working out what she’ll wear next, or the constant worry that something dreadful will happen to the girl, as it all sounds too good to be true. Fear not, for she becomes proper mum to two children and acting as occasional foster mum to another. It’s a relationship tale of a rather sickly sweet nature, but then, if you try, girls, you might get lucky and find the wellheeled man of your dreams. And guys, you can read and dream-on too, for she comes across as a rather too lovable gal. All this said, it’s a nice read from a veteran lady story-teller.

Suggestion and queries to: writerselect@gmail. com. We’re always happy to consider specific titles for review, though without obligation. Can’t find a title? E-mail your details and we’ll try to help.”

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