The St Leonards & St Ives Directory - June 2023

Welcome...

Dear Residents,

Has the weather finally turned, and will we get that delightful sunshine we all so desire over the summer? I do hope so, it makes such a difference to us all. Daichi visited Scotland last month and indeed the sun did shine, amongst some rain, but nevertheless it was not bad! We loved the trip and you can read all about it inside. Do you have a trip planned this summer or are you going to stay in our beautiful British Isles and enjoy some home comforts? We will be staying local, so let’s see where Daichi takes us next…

As always we have great trades and services inside your local magazine. They are all here for you, for advice and help and creating the space you want in your environment. Each would love to hear from you, so do pick up the phone or send an email. Stephen, myself and the girls who make the call, as well of course all the local trades and businesses really appreciate all that you do to keep our local economy and services going! Times are interesting and the more we can work together, the better we will all do. I am a big believer in that.

If there is anything you would like to read about or see here, please let me know. I would love to provide as much as possible within these pages.

All of us here at Modern Magazines wish you a Jolly June!

Debbie, Stephen & all the team at Modern Magazines

Illuminating

History And Wildlife At Badbury Rings –New Community Arts Project Secures National Funding

Dorset arts company Emerald Ant, in partnership with the National Trust’s Kingston Lacy Estate, has been awarded over £78,000 funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to deliver an innovative new arts project that will bring the history and ecology of Badbury Rings Iron Age Hillfort alive for local communities.

And ‘Glow Badbury’ is already underway! The first field visits for local school children began on 2nd May, enabling them to explore the site and to learn the stories of the Rings 40,000 years of human history, under the expert guidance of the National Trust’s archaeologist. Working alongside the Trust’s Ranger the children will also find out about some of the wonderful wildlife that lives at this unique site.

Artists and musicians will then help those taking part capture their creative responses to Badbury Rings heritage and wildlife in a series of workshops in schools and community venues – writing stories, composing music and creating artwork. The culmination of the project will be an enchanting evening celebration of the Rings through illuminated ambient performance pieces, a feast for all the senses through music soundscape, words, drawings, projections and site-specific theatre performances.

Emerald Ant Community Interest Company has been delivering high quality

performance and creative experiences, inspired by Dorset’s rich cultural heritage, since 2015. Emerald Ant’s Creative Director, and Glow Badbury Project Lead Sarah Butterworth, said;

“We are thrilled to have received this support thanks to National Lottery players. We look forward to working with the National Trust’s Operations Team and volunteers at Kingston Lacy and the staff and volunteers at the Museum of East Dorset in Wimborne. The project will provide activities and events that connect local communities, and in particular children, with Badbury Rings through creative interpretation of its history and ecology. The workshops and final performance will bring people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds together, promoting health and well-being, counteracting social isolation and engendering a greater understanding of the site in order that it can be preserved for future generations.”

An educational pack, developed through the project, will ensure that all Dorset school children can enjoy and benefit from this imaginative look at a historically significant and much-loved site.

Additional funding has been provided for the project by the National Trust, Dorset Council and local schools.

Image: Badbury Rings, Artist Sarah Butterworth

MYTIME Young Carers Charity

Needs Your Vote to Win £70,000 of National Lottery Funding

Dorset-based children’s charity, MYTIME Young Carers, is in the running to secure £70,000 of National Lottery funding. MYTIME Young Carers is hoping your audience will want to help by voting for them in this year’s The People’s Projects. Voting opens at 9am on Monday 15th May at www.thepeoplesprojects. org.uk

Back after a 3-year break, The National Lottery Community Fund, ITV, UTV and the Sunday Mail (in Scotland) have teamed up to give the public a chance to decide how National Lottery funding should be put to good use in their local area.

MYTIME Young Carers is one of five groups in the Meridian West in the running for a share of almost £250,000 of funding. If successful, MYTIME Young Carers will invest every penny of the £70,000 prize money straight into their Making Memories Programme.

The programme is all about promoting and preserving their mental well-being and provides young carers from all over Dorset with chances to take some muchneeded time out from their caring responsibilities, experience new things and encourage young carers to get active and connect with the great outdoors.

Young Carer Jack (aged 11) says “I have the best time at MYTIME’s activity

days. They help to take my mind off things and make me feel less alone as a young carer.”

To be in with a chance of winning, MYTIME Young Carers is asking all its supporters to vote for them. Voting opens at 9am on Monday 15th May at www.thepeoplesprojects.org. uk/mytimes-making-memories

Jenny Young, MYTIME’s Communication Manager commented “MYTIME receives no government funding at all, so we rely on the support of our community. By voting for MYTIME, you’ll be keeping this life-changing programme going for another year, allowing us to support up to 1000 young carers over that time.”

Photo: Meridian West

Puzzle Page Quick Crossword

Word Ladder

Make your way from BIND to SORT by changing one letter on each step to make a new word! ANSWERS:

True or False Trivia

1. An ant can lift 1,000 times its body weight

2. The liver is the largest internal organ in the human body

3. Australia is the Land of the Rising Sun

4. All mammals live on land

5. In bowling, a chicken is 3 consecutive strikes

6. The skull is the strongest bone in the human body

7. Hawaiian pizza comes from Hawaii

8. The shortest war in history lasted for only 52 minutes

9. Dumbo is the shortest Disney Movie

10. While sleeping you cannot smell anything

Just Jake

The work and the ways of Jake Gyllenhaal.

It would be hard to find a more serious and articulate observer of his profession than Jake Gyllenhaal. He goes about every role with deep consideration, flawless delivery and unparalleled commitment. Yet for the 42-year-old star of Brokeback Mountain, Southpaw, Donnie Darko, Spider-Man: Far From Home and Wildlife, the action is involuntary.

“I made a decision a while ago to push everything else aside and see acting as a craft… which sounds up there you know,” he laughs, “but if you look at any of the greats, they fully commit. And when you watch those fully committing, it’s inspiring, it’s moving.

“That’s a priority for me, because the way you grow as an individual is by forcing yourself to exit your comfort zone. For me, life is all about discovery and risk and exploring new aspects of yourself as well as the world in general.”

In over two decades of producing cinema of improbably high calibre, Gyllenhaal, who is the brother of actress Maggie, is keenly aware of the inflated status of actors in the context of modern celebrity culture.

“The thing that really drives me as an actor is my curiosity,” says Gyllenhaal. “I’m far less adventurous in my own life, and my work gives me the ability to exceed my normal boundaries and explore things about myself that I wouldn’t do otherwise.”

In the immediate foreground is Road House, a brilliant remake of the Patrick Swayze movie from 1989.

“I bulked up a bit for the movie, but generally speaking, have tried to keep my shape since doing the likes of Southpaw and Prisoners,” he says. “It’s been a process of looking after myself and taking satisfaction out of how I look and the power and focus being built gives me, so it wasn’t too difficult to get into the right mode for this one.

“Southpaw was a ‘six hours a

day’ dedication – I don’t think I could go through that again for any film!”

Road House puts Gyllenhaal back into box office central, although the actor is keen to state he is about much more than big-money productions. He is at a stage in his career when it seems he has little to prove… and if there is something, it’s purely to himself.

“I find that as an individual I learn so much from looking at the world differently when I work on a film. I constantly feel the need to challenge myself, and I make sure I listen to my instincts.

“I believe we should all do that – follow the clues, follow your heart; and stay happy.”

Heritage OF KINGS & QUEENS

Heritage OF KINGS & QUEENS

Local Her age: OF KINGS & QUEENS

With King Charles and Queen Camilla successfully crowned, it seems appropriate to consider some of the local influences that royalty, plus religion, has had locally.

With King Charles and Queen Camilla successfully crowned, it seems appropriate to consider some of the local influences that royalty, plus religion, has had locally.

He was Keeper of the Privy Purse to Henry IV; negotiated the marriage of his son, later Henry V, to the King of France’s daughter; but on campaign, he died two weeks before her father, thus failing to become King of both lands.

He was Keeper of the Privy Purse to Henry IV; negotiated the marriage of his son, later Henry V, to the King of France’s daughter; but on campaign, he died two weeks before her father, thus failing to become King of both lands.

Christchurch Priory was an early local centre of the Christian faith, seen here in the foreground of the present church on site. In those early times, despite the Vikings ravaging all the other “kingdoms” of England, “our” Wessex prevailed under King Alfred and his predecessors, who eventually establish his capital at Winchester.

Christchurch Priory was an early local centre of the Christian faith, seen here in the foreground of the present church on site. In those early times, despite the Vikings ravaging all the other “kingdoms” of England, “our” Wessex prevailed under King Alfred and his predecessors, who eventually establish his capital at Winchester.

A Saxon church was later built at Ringwood, which was included with its mill, lands and slaves in Domesday. A cruciform church was built nearby in the late 13th century and a tower added later. The old building survived, perhaps used as accommodation. It became a free school in the 1500s, but was demolished when today’s third church was built 1853-5.

A Saxon church was later built at Ringwood, which was included with its mill, lands and slaves in Domesday. A cruciform church was built nearby in the late 13th century and a tower added later. The old building survived, perhaps used as accommodation. It became a free school in the 1500s, but was demolished when today’s third church was built 1853-5.

Within the church is the brass of the then “rector”, John Prophete He died in 1416, and had held some prominent royal positions.

Within the church is the brass of the then “rector”, John Prophete He died in 1416, and had held some prominent royal positions.

His young son was a weak king, much “ruled” by his court. By the mid15th century he was promoting education, initially establishing Eton College, and funding it in part by royal lands around Ellingham. His next project was Kings College, Cambridge, funded by possessions in Ringwood.

His young son was a weak king, much “ruled” by his court. By the mid15th century he was promoting education, initially establishing Eton College, and funding it in part by royal lands around Ellingham. His next project was Kings College, Cambridge, funded by possessions in Ringwood.

The present chancel is apparently the same size as the 13th century one, but devoid of memorials.

The present chancel is apparently the same size as the 13th century one, but devoid of memorials.

This rectorship left an ongoing legacy for the officers of the College, whereby today they remain responsible as “rector” and thus required to appoint (or at least, approve) the nominated vicar. They also remain responsible for the care and maintenance of the chancel. At. the mid-19th century complete rebuild, it cost them almost £1000.

This rectorship left an ongoing legacy for the officers of the College, whereby today they remain responsible as “rector” and thus required to appoint (or at least, approve) the nominated vicar. They also remain responsible for the care and maintenance of the chancel. At. the mid-19th century complete rebuild, it cost them almost £1000.

Such matters were of little consequence during the 16th and 17th centuries. Catholics were persecuted for much of this time, churches and monasteries deprived of their treasures, and eventually most of the royal regalia destroyed during the Commonwealth.

Such matters were of little consequence during the 16th and 17th centuries. Catholics were persecuted for much of this time, churches and monasteries deprived of their treasures, and eventually most of the royal regalia destroyed during the Commonwealth.

The replacements by Charles II were much in evidence on May 6th. Meanwhile new church silver was provided for our church.

The replacements by Charles II were much in evidence on May 6th. Meanwhile new church silver was provided for our church.

Dissenters had been arriving from the continent as a result of their persecution, notably the Pilgrim Fathers, on their way to America. Presbyterians brought their practices down from Scotland after James I became King and united the two nations in 1601.

Dissenters had been arriving from the continent as a result of their persecution, notably the Pilgrim Fathers, on their way to America. Presbyterians brought their practices down from Scotland after James I became King and united the two nations in 1601.

They kept a low profile initially, building their chapels away from the main thoroughfares. Hence the siting of the Meeting House next to what was the “Burg Furlong”, the common land where people grazed their animals.

They kept a low profile initially, building their chapels away from the main thoroughfares. Hence the siting of the Meeting House next to what was the “Burg Furlong”, the common land where people grazed their animals.

The execution of Charles I involved more than 50 members signing the warrant. With the monarchy restored, these “traitors” were hunted down. Among them was the husband of Dame Alice Lisle of Moyles Court, eventually found and killed in Switzerland.

The execution of Charles I involved more than 50 members signing the warrant. With the monarchy restored, these “traitors” were hunted down. Among them was the husband of Dame Alice Lisle of Moyles Court, eventually found and killed in Switzerland.

At Moyles Court, Dame Alice was accused by Judge Jefferies of hiding a priest linked to Monmouth, the jury forced to find her guilty, and sentenced, as a traitor, to be burned at the stake. James II commuted it to beheading, the last woman to suffer that fate. James, a devout catholic, was forced to flee the country. His daughter Mary and her husband William became our new “royals”.

At Moyles Court, Dame Alice was accused by Judge Jefferies of hiding a priest linked to Monmouth, the jury forced to find her guilty, and sentenced, as a traitor, to be burned at the stake. James II commuted it to beheading, the last woman to suffer that fate. James, a devout catholic, was forced to flee the country. His daughter Mary and her husband William became our new “royals”.

This picture of the house was taken from a WW2 Spitffire.

This picture of the house was taken from a WW2 Spitffire.

Moving to the Georgian period Prinny married Princess Caroline primarily to produce a legitimate heir. Her suitability was “vetted” by the 1st Earl of Malmesbury, resident at Hurn Court. Dissatisfied with her actual appearance and habits, having done the necessary to impregnate her, George abandoned her on the nuptial night, but a daughter was the result, so his brother William became his heir. After George III died, he then locked her out of the Abbey for his Coronation.

Moving to the Georgian period Prinny married Princess Caroline primarily to produce a legitimate heir. Her suitability was “vetted” by the 1st Earl of Malmesbury, resident at Hurn Court. Dissatisfied with her actual appearance and habits, having done the necessary to impregnate her, George abandoned her on the nuptial night, but a daughter was the result, so his brother William became his heir. After George III died, he then locked her out of the Abbey for his Coronation.

Meanwhile the Duke of Monmouth, one of Charles’ illegitimate sons, laid claim to the throne, Having been defeated at the Battle of Naseby, he was captured near Ringwood and brought into town. He was questioned at the vicarage, taken to today’s Monmouth House, escorted to London, and executed on Tower Hill, not in the Tower itself as implied by the Blue plaque.

Meanwhile the Duke of Monmouth, one of Charles’ illegitimate sons, laid claim to the throne, Having been defeated at the Battle of Naseby, he was captured near Ringwood and brought into town. He was questioned at the vicarage, taken to today’s Monmouth House, escorted to London, and executed on Tower Hill, not in the Tower itself as implied by the Blue plaque.

She had been popular with the people, so, while being tolled at her death, the tenor bell at Ringwood church cracked. Here it awaits return to the belfry in the 1920s.

She had been popular with the people, so, while being tolled at her death, the tenor bell at Ringwood church cracked. Here it awaits return to the belfry in the 1920s.

JOHN HAWKINS

Call me at home on 01202 875512

We are family run business and have been building our reputation within the Hampshire and Dorset region since 2007. Since then we have continued to supply quality products fitted by qualified FENSA MTC fitters. We tailor each installation to our customers requirements.

Understanding Investments:

Investing in Trusts to Reduce Inheritance Tax and Protect Assets

Many of our clients want to minimise the amount of Inheritance Tax (IHT) their estate will be liable to pay, and also protect their assets to remain within their direct family’s control. Whilst one of the simplest solutions to reduce an estate’s value is to make outright gifts of capital, this doesn’t provide the required protection. This is because the donor then has no control over the use of the money and the money forms part of the recipient’s assets in the event of family breakdown/divorce. This can hold client’s back from taking action.

Investing money into a Trust allows the settlor’s (donor) control during their lifetime of how the money is used, assuming they are nominated as Trustees, and protects the money on their demise so their wishes can continue to be met by the remaining Trustees.

Outright gifts into trust usually mean the settlor gives up the right to benefit in any way from the capital and for many clients this is fine as we will have completed cash-flow projections to evidence that our clients have sufficient other capital for their lifetimes. The money paid into a Trust is therefore surplus to their needs. However, there are some Trusts from which the settlor’s are able to draw back capital of up to 5% per annum to spend on their own needs. These can be suitable if income is needed by the settlors during their lifetime but the capital isn’t required.

Once money is paid into a Trust, it is important that it is invested appropriately. The Trustees select the level of risk they require, linked to the aims of the Trust and when the capital is likely to be required by the beneficiaries.

Howard Goodship

Inheritance Tax planning can be complex. We take the time to understand the family’s financial position and objectives and then create a plan which can include the use of available annual exemptions. Investing capital into a Trust may or may not be required but if it is we will ensure our clients understand how the Trust works, that the investments held within the Trust are suitable and that the Trust solution is tax-efficient and meet our client’s needs.

My colleague Stewart SimsHandcock and I are available for a free initial, no obligation chat to discuss your personal requirements at your home or at our office in Ringwood. Alternatively contact us and we can send you the “Lonsdale Introductory Guide to Inheritance Tax”.

Howard Goodship is an Independent Financial Adviser with Lonsdale Wealth Management, 5 Fridays Court, Ringwood. Tel: 01425 208490 www.lonsdaleservices.co.uk

The value of an investment and the income from it could go down as well as up. The return at the end of the investment period is not guaranteed and you may get back less than you originally invested. The contents of this article are for information purposes only and do not constitute individual advice.

Here at United Fencing Supplies we specialise in all types of fencing from domestic to industrial.

We stock a full range of timber fencing products including:

• Picket Fencing

• Closeboard Fencing

• Trellis and Overlap

• Closeboard Panels

We manufacture all of our own panels, trellis and gates so if you have any bespoke requirements please don’t hesitate to contact us.

With over 25 years’ experience we are confident that United Fencing Supplies is the right choice for your garden project.

The Hairy Bikers’ Steak and Ale Pie

Introduction

Treat your old man this Father’s Day with a recipe from the ultimate creators of comfort food: The Hairy Bikers. Rich, flavoursome and pretty simple to make, this steak and ale pie will earn you ultimate parent points.

Ingredients

(serves 4-6)

For the filling

• 900g stewing steak, diced

• 25g flour, plus extra for dusting

• 100g butter

• 2 onions roughly chopped

• 2 cloves of garlic, roughly chopped

• 2 medium carrots, roughly chopped

• 150g button mushrooms

• 2 sprigs fresh thyme

• 400ml good-quality ale

• 500ml beef stock

• Salt and pepper

For the pastry

• 300g ready-made rolled puff pastry

• 1 egg, beaten for glazing

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C/ Gas Mark 7. Tip the flour into a bowl and season well. Coat the meat with seasoned flour.

2. Heat half the butter in a heated pan and add the meat. Sear all over until golden brown.

3. Add the vegetables, herbs, ale, and stock. Bring to a simmer, then cover with a lid and gently simmer for one hour. When cooked, season, add the remaining butter, and pour into an ovenproof serving dish.

4. Brush the edge of the dish with the beaten egg. Roll out the pastry using as little flour as possible and place it over the dish. Pinch the edges of the dish so that the pastry will stick to it and trim off any remaining pieces of pastry from around the edge. Brush the pastry top thoroughly with the remaining

5. Bake for one hour and 20 minutes until the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.

Top Tip

• Remove your pastry from the fridge at least half an hour before you want to use it and let the pie filling cool a little before placing the pastry over the top as the heat may cause it to tear.

beaten egg and place on a baking tray.

Top Tip

You can also prepare the pie filling in a slow cooker for a richer, deeper flavour.

Green ngers… the Alan Titchmarsh column

He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist, and allround horticultural inspiration. This month, Alan Titchmarsh discusses an array of wildlife we may not expect to see in our gardens over the summer months.

Think of our gardens in summer and you can probably come up with the same old things that make those outside spaces such pleasurable places to spend time in. There are flowers such as roses, lavender, foxgloves, delphiniums; there’s all that lush green grass that offers visual magnificence with an aroma that is as unique as it is unmistakable. Beyond that, there’s the beauty of climbing plants such as ivy, clematis and honeysuckle. And of course, the odd bat.

Hang on, did I just say that?!

Well I did, and it’s true. Bats in the summer in our gardens

are common, albeit not the first thing you would immediately think of.

And while you’re there, have a look for grass snakes, stag beetles, slow worms, glow-worms, foxes, and even rare amphibians such as the great crested newt. And what about the humble hedgehog, or the sparky sparrowhawk?

Few of these animals we would confidently associate with summer gardens, but they are there, they are present, and if we seek them out, they can truly enrich our admiration for this wonderful habitat and where life – beyond flowers and plants – is shown to flourish.

So while the summer months typically enable us to sit back, relax and enjoy the immediate visual beauty of our gardens, the truth is there is so much more going on behind the scenes. You’ll see all this if you delve a bit deeper into your outside space, and can attract the wonderful visitors – all the while supporting local

biodiversity – by ensuring you are planting native species, by providing water sources, as well as creating habitats like log piles or compost heaps.

The fact is, while we look on our gardens primarily as places that stimulate our senses so spectacularly, it’s worth remembering they are habitats for all manner of wonderful little creatures and critters, and we are all, at times, guilty of forgetting their existence.

My recommendation this year is to give a bit more back to animal life – even if that means keeping the grass a bit longer than you usually would – because you’ll be surprised at just how much more your garden evolves.

●Generalgardeningservices

●RHSlevel2

●ElderlySupportServices

07899958436

Email:info@anniesgardening.co.uk

Website:www.anniesgardening.co.uk

The Adventures of Daichi The Modern Magazines Camper Van

As you know Daichi, our beloved Modern Magazines campervan, loves to travel. Well last month he did his longest journey yet and travelled all the way to the beautiful, stunning and inspiring Trossachs in Scotland. We decided to do the first journey in two parts. After a busy and fun Bank Holiday Monday in Wafflicious our ice-cream and waffle parlour, the three of us stepped into a rather packed Daichi and set off for ‘just north of Manchester’ where we would have a snooze. Daichi was in his element. This is exactly what he is made for. Family time, travel and adventure. After an overnight stay on the motorway, well not literally of course, we set off again all refreshed. I have to say that the service station at Tebay with its rather nice farm shop, good food and lovely scenery was a welcome break. It was designed and constructed after the motorway was planned to meander all the way through the farm itself. The owner took advantage of the situation and created this whole new business. What a brilliant idea. Instead of complaining and stopping the planned road, he thought with it, for the good of all. The whole trip was a lesson in this as you will read.

Tigh Mor is located on Loch Achray, near the famous Loch Katrine. It is so picturesque. The imposing Hotel did remind me of Hogwarts from Harry Potter, with its majestic turrets and high stone walls. It was all rather exciting, and I am led to believe that some guests have heard their name mysteriously called out when their partners were out. The views down to the Loch and across to Ben A’an and Ben Venue are awe inspiring. They calm the soul. Perfect for a relaxing break. We met with Stephen’s dad, Alan and his sister Rachel, so it was a time to catch up and make some memories too. Daichi, and me, were in our elements.

Hayden was only staying for a couple of days as the King had decided to have a Coronation (even more excitement – what a week!) and Hayden needed to get back to work in his beloved Icecream parlour with Coronation Specials. The first day we planned a boat trip on Loch Katrine. What a beautiful location. What I did not know is that Loch Katrine is famous and actually the very reason this area is now so frequented and loved. Sir Walter Scott had written the novel “The Lady of the Lake” published in 1810. Prior to this Scotland was seen as a dangerous, inhospitable place with fierce warriors, outlaws (that is my maiden name by the way… honestly!), thieves, wolves, ferocious birds of prey and

Daichi at “An Tigh Mor Trossachs”

I got to steer the boat on Loch Katrine!

savage stags. Sir Walter’s novel, portrayed a rather different picture. It is a romance after all with much adventure. I have not read it yet but am getting my copy for sure. This is a story of turning a whole view around and creating good, where once there was only bad. After the great adventures in Lady of the Lake had been published, with heroes, heroines, myths and legends, hundreds of visitors arrived to witness the sheer beauty and delights of this alluring area – but there was nowhere for these people to stay! Arriving in luxurious carriages these gentry slept on straw in barns and wherever they could lay down. One intelligent and thoughtful man, James Stuart, started renting out rooms, albeit the stale bread and rough whiskey he provided was little to be desired. The local landowners then built a hotel with all the luxuries of a London dwelling to accommodate the increasing numbers of high guests all pouring in. The Trossachs Hotel it was called. Now known as Tigh Mor, having gone through many owners and changes over the years, this is where we were staying. How exciting. Daichi may not be a horse drawn carriage, but the setting is such that you almost feel this is how you arrived! History is fascinating, don’t you think?

The following day we visited Doune Castle. Another famous place now, due to the filming of the recent series Outlander and previously Monty Python and the Holy Grail. We love castles and this did not disappoint. The high curtain walls in the courtyard that would once have been the height of activity with a thriving community, the Great Hall still showing its splendour, the

Gate house, the spiral staircases up to the chambers, the magnificent views across River Teith, it was all very thought provoking. Built in the late 1300’s by Robert Stewart, the 1st Duke of Albany and the renown “uncrowned King” who ruled Scotland without ever being given the title to actually do so. Lots of intrigue with the real heir imprisoned in England. History at its best. Another fabulous day was had by all.

Hayden took his train from Glasgow to London and then onto Weymouth, while we continued to enjoy our stay. We watched the Coronation with the backdrop of Ben A’an behind the TV, gorgeous.

A visit to Loch Lomond was an absolute must and with beautiful sunshine it was just gorgeous. One day Stephen took me on a mystery tour and we visited Nick Nairn’s Restaurant, at Port of Menteith. We had to stop for coffee and cake of course! We met Julia, Nick’s lovely wife in her delightful shop full of quality kitchen ware and house furnishings. Nick was the youngest Scottish chef to win a Michelin star in the early 1990’s. More fame to be experienced this trip. All these accolades and acclaims are getting to Daichi’s head! A lovely setting, good coffee and delicious desserts were enjoyed by all.

A visit to Stirling to see our niece, meals out, strolls alongside Lochs, wonderful Daichi tours around the “Three Lochs Drive”, and picnics by the glistening waters, what more could we want. Daichi was extremely happy and so were we. Thank you to Grandpa for an amazing week! Where will Daichi take us next… I wonder?

By Debbie Corney

Our view of Loch Achray

The Curtain Walls at Doune Castle

Home Tech-Experts

Computer health check

Win/AppleMac repairs/upgrades

Cyber security + data recovery

Tuition + general assistance

New computers + accessories

Faster internet + better WiFi

Anti-virus software

Old tech recycling drop-off

Business IT Specialists

IT systems architects

Servers + database design

Networks, VOIP + broadband

Contract or payg service plans

Websites + digital marketing

Business email services

Software development

Cloud data services

75 Years since Windrush

We look back and celebrate 75 years since the arrival of the SS Empire Windrush to Tilbury Dock in London, in June 1948 – a seminal moment in the immediate post-war rebuild, and beyond that in the evolution of the UK’s cultural path.

“That’s the extraordinary thing about this ship – it takes you into the currents of history… The Windrush sailed all the way through them.” –

The ship now commonly known as the Empire Windrush was originally built as a transatlantic cruiser by German-Jewish shipbuilders Blohm & Voss, and was christened the Monte Rosa, in 1930s Hamburg.

The vessel was captured by the British during World War II, and by 1948 was one of the most startling reinventions of freedom imaginable, as it delivered 492 migrants from the Caribbean, docking in Essex.

Many of the passengers were former servicemen who served their wartime in the country they had now travelled to. They represented the initial wave of desperately needed post-war labour designed to help get Britain back on its feet.

When its travellers eventually disembarked, around 230 were given accommodation in a deep air-raid shelter beneath Clapham Common, while the rest had already arranged work and a place to live upon their arrival.

While some immediately flourished in their new surroundings, for others work was harder to find, despite many being overqualified for jobs. While the UK had owed a huge debt of gratitude to those who had joined its war effort, the conflict had cemented a feeling of self-preservation and selfprotection, and that extended to the jobs market where some employers only wanted to look after their own.

Over time, and as more arrived from foreign shores, a fair spread of job opportunities presented itself, not least because the country was powering behind a rebuild that required labourers in food, iron and steel production, coal, expansion of the capital’s public transport and, of course, the newly-formed NHS.

While the Windrush Generation made huge contributions to the society that already existed in Britain, many set about making waves of their own.

Wind forward and AfroCaribbean community has made an enormous contribution to British culture through music, sport, education, the arts, politics and, of course, culinary genius; and those influences on the very fabric of British life is now recognised every year in the form of Windrush Day, on June 22nd.

In 1948, the fallout from the conflict was a decimated economy, and a nation short of housing, industry and workers.

The arrival of that boat to a bleak and rather inhospitable Tilbury Docks signified not just a ray of sunshine for those on board, but the country as a whole.

Paul Arnott

STAR GAZING

WRITTEN BY KATE EARL

kateearlastro@gmail.com

Welcome to the June Stargazing Page. Highlights this month include a very close encounter between the Moon and Antares, the star that ‘rivals Mars’.

International Space Station

For the final few days of June, the ISS is visible an hour or so before sunrise, low in the southeast. To establish exact timings please refer to www.heavens-above.com or a similar webpage for up-to-date information, remembering to set the location to your observing area.

Events

Midsummer, or the Summer Solstice (from the Latin for ‘the sun stands still’) occurs on June 21st. For the northern hemisphere, it marks the day when the Sun reaches its highest point in the sky at noon (GMT). We experience this as the ‘longest day’ of the year (the longest amount of daylight and the shortest night).

Mercury

The innermost planet is too close to the Sun to be seen this month.

Venus

Venus is now sinking lower every evening but remains visible in our skies until just

before midnight. It appears close to Mars and the Moon on the 21st and 22nd around 11pm (see figure).

Mars

Mars is also getting dimmer and lower each night. Use Venus and the Moon as markers to try and spot it low on the western horizon on the 21st and 22nd. Binoculars will help bring out its red colouration.

Jupiter & Saturn

Jupiter is visible from around 3.30am low in the east, but is dazzling bright and for early risers it cannot be mistaken for anything else. Saturn appears earlier, around 3am.

Moon

June’s full moon occurs on the 4th. It is very close to the star Antares on the 3rd at 11.30pm (see figure). On this date, the Moon is pretty much full, so binoculars might be required to see Antares through its glare.

Star of the month

Antares, the brightest star in the constellation of the scorpion, Scorpius (note, not Scorpio), can be spotted low in the south during the month of June. Its name is derived from the Ancient Greek for ‘rival of Mars’, as it is often seen in the same part of the sky as the red planet, and is also coloured red, but for different reasons. Mars is red because its surface contains oxidised (rusted) iron, whereas Antares is classed as a red supergiant star, which has cooled to a temperature that gives off red-coloured light. In one version of Greek mythology, the scorpion was responsible for the downfall of the boastful hunter Orion, causing his death by a quick sting on the back of his foot. The whole star pattern of Scorpius can’t be seen from the UK, but if you travel farther south for your holidays this summer try and spot the scorpion in all its glory as it really is one of the most spectacular constellations.

Please canwe have trees added to the horizon as view isvery low to the south. Thanks

View south at 11.30pm on 3 June

Antares: ‘Rival of Mars’

Near full moon

Brilliant British Cars

Eight marvellous motors that changed the culture and reputation of British motoring.

The British motor industry has a rich and illustrious history, with some of the most iconic cars ever produced. From luxury sports speedsters to rugged off-roaders, the UK has produced vehicles that have captured the hearts of petrolheads around the world.

1.

Land Rover Defender

The Land Rover Defender is an iconic British off-roader that has been in production since 1948. Originally designed for agricultural use, the Defender has become a symbol of British engineering and adventure. Renowned for its ruggedness and reliability, it has been used by the military, farmers, and explorers all over the world.

2.

Mini

The Mini is a British motoring icon that first appeared in 1959. Originally designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, the Mini was a revolutionary car that was small, agile and cheap to run. It quickly became a cultural icon, featuring in films such

as The Italian Job and becoming synonymous with the Swinging Sixties.

3. Lotus Elise

The Lotus Elise is a lightweight sports car that was first introduced in 1996. The car was designed to be a pure driver’s car, with an emphasis on agility, handling, and performance.

4.

Jaguar E-Type

The Jaguar E-Type is often cited as one of the most beautiful cars ever made. Introduced in 1961, this sports car was an instant hit thanks to its sleek styling, impressive performance, and affordable price tag.

5.

Bentley Continental GT

The Bentley Continental GT is a luxury grand tourer that was first introduced in 2003. The car is known for its exquisite craftsmanship, refined performance and luxurious interior.

6.

The MG MGB is a classic British sports car that was produced between 1962 and 1980. The car was designed to be affordable and practical, and quickly became one of the bestselling sports cars of all time.

7. Rolls-Royce Phantom

Rolls-Royce is one of the most prestigious car brands in the world, and the Phantom is its flagship model.

Introduced in 1925, the Phantom has been the choice of royalty, heads of state, and the rich and famous ever since. The car is famous for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and attention to detail.

8.

The Aston Martin DB5 is one of the most iconic British sports cars of all time, and is best known for its appearance in the James Bond films. The car was produced between 1963 and 1965, and was one of the most expensive cars of its time, a symbol of luxury and sophistication.

MG MGB

Aston Martin DB5

A Design for Life… e Kevin McCloud Column

Designer, writer and television presenter, Kevin McCloud leapt into our consciousness with his vastly successful Grand Designs show on Channel 4. This month, the affable architectural business owner talks about how to enrich and update your home, without the need to raise it to the ground.

If I were to make one criticism of the Grand Designs concept, it’s that everything starts from scratch… well, almost everything.

The concept across 23 series has often been to develop a basic, unremarkable plot of land into a dream home; yet in reality, 99 per cent of people never have that option. In short, we have to make the most of what we’re given, and that means taking an existing home and redeveloping it, and that means dealing with limitations as far as the freedom we have.

It’s not all bad news though. What you have with older properties is a build quality that is often significantly better than we have today. We’ve all been in old houses where the walls are several feet thick, or the overhanging beams, for all their ageing, are as rigid and secure as the day a couple of hundred years ago they were put in. Trust me, this stuff counts.

So if you have the opportunity to renovate rather than buy new, take it and embrace it. Sometimes, if we already have something on the canvas, so to speak, it can stimulate a whole plethora of ideas you would never have thought of previously.

most important of all, be brave in what you create.

What

I will say is give this creativity the respect it deserves.

Ensure to hire a reputable builder, use highquality materials, focus on energy efficiency – as well as saving the planet, it will save you money too! – consider sustainable building practices and,

Look at extreme detail as well as the big picture, think about what styles you’ll like in a year’s time, in five years’ time, in 10 years’ time, and drive ideas that fill you with energy and creativity… the like of which you would never achieve in a newbuild.

There is no place more important than our home –it is our inspiration, our salvation, and our sanity. It’s the place we thrive, and the place we protect those around us, so getting it right is essential, and sometimes reinvention – making use of some existing elements and working them into a new outcome – can be the golden nectar a space requires.

Astronomy Wordsearch

BLACK HOLE

COSMIC DUST

DARK MATTER

GALAXY

GAMMA RAY BURST

LUMINOSITY

NEBULA

SUPERNOVA

TELESCOPE UNIVERSE

WHITE DWARF

Heat Waste

How to enjoy summer without the excess environmental waste it can often create.

Summer is a season that brings excitement, energy and opportunity at every turn. From outdoor barbecues to beach trips, it’s a time of year when people tend to do more, spend more and, unfortunately, waste more than usual.

Here are some practical ways by which we can reduce our environmental impact and save money during the summer months.

Reduce your energy consumption

Summer can be a time when people use a lot of energy to keep cool. To reduce your energy consumption, consider fans instead of air conditioning, take showers instead of baths and use your oven as little as possible.

You can also close your blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day to keep your home cool, and switch to LED lightbulbs which as well as being more energy efficient, also give off less heat.

Plan your meals

Summer is a great time for fresh fruits and vegetables, but such buoyant supply can often lead to us overbuying. To reduce food waste, plan your meals in advance and only buy what you need.

Also consider freezing any overripe fruits or vegetables for later use in smoothies; and when barbecuing, try to cook only what you need.

Use reusable containers and bags

When packing for a picnic or a day at the beach, bring reusable containers and bags instead of disposable ones. This will reduce the amount of waste you produce and save you money in the long run.

It’s also worth investing in cool packs that will keep your food tasting fresh, along with insulated bottles that can

ensure water or other drinks (including wine!) stay cool for hours.

Choose eco-friendly activities

When planning activities for the summer, why not make the most of the great outdoors and go hiking, biking or even paddleboarding?

These activities have less of an impact on the environment than, say, visiting a theme park, and are also considerably cheaper. You can also look for local events that promote sustainability and conservation such as group litter-picking events and family fun days that channel resources back into your local community.

Use public transport

While it can be tempting to take that long-haul holiday or campervan road trip, planes and cars are costly and produce a lot of emissions. So why not pick a destination you can reach by train or coach instead? And where possible, try to commit to walking or cycling short distances, rather than driving.

Alison Roman’s Birthday Cake

Whether you’ve got a big celebration coming up or just fancy making a really moist, beautiful cake, this classic birthday recipe from American baking superstar Alison Roman will make even the most ordinary day feel special.

Ingredients

(10 to 12 servings)

• Non-stick spray or butter for the pan

• 225g unsalted butter, room temperature, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 470g all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1½ tsp salt

• 1½ tsp baking soda

• 360ml buttermilk

• 180ml vegetable oil

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 400g granulated sugar

• 110g lightly packed light brown sugar

• 5 large eggs

• 3 large egg yolks

For the Chocolate frosting

• 340g bittersweet chocolate, chopped (chocolate chips are fine)

• 225g sour cream, room temperature

• 225g unsalted butter, room temperature

• 185g icing sugar

• Generous pinch of salt

• Lots of sprinkles

Method

1. Heat the oven to 180°C. Spray three 9-inch cake pans with non-stick spray or grease with softened butter.

2. Whisk the flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda together. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, vegetable oil and vanilla extract.

3. In another bowl, combine the butter, sugar and light brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat everything until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and egg yolks one at a time. Beat until combined.

4. Add a quarter of the flour mixture. Before fully combined, add in half of the buttermilk mixture. Repeat with remaining flour and buttermilk until everything is blended.

5. Divide the batter equally among the pans. Bake for 35-40mins, rotating the pan halfway through baking. The cakes are done when they are golden brown and pulling away from the sides of the pan.

6. Melt the chocolate. Add half the sour cream to the chocolate and combine. Repeat with another half. The chocolate will

Top Tip

It is essential to ensure the cake layers are properly cooled before frosting them

Top Tip

• For a pro effect, apply a ‘crumb layer’ first whereby you apply a thin layer of icing on the outside of the cake and then place it in the fridge to set. Once chilled, you can apply the rest of the frosting over this layer for a flawless effect.

stiffen a bit as you add the sour cream.

7. In a bowl, combine the butter, sugar and salt using an electric mixer on low speed at first. Beat until everything is almost pure. Slowly add in the chocolate mixture and beat until combined.

8. Assemble the cake with frosting between each layer and use the last of the frosting to cover the entire cake. Decorate with sprinkles and serve.

Puzzle Page Answers

Quick Crossword Solution #028

Answers:

Across: 5. Nutbutter, 8. Step, 9. Renminbi, 10. Bestrew, 11. Neume, 13. Major, 15. Evident, 18. Actuator, 19. City, 20. Landslide.

Down: 1. Output, 2. Aborted, 3. Stint, 4. Derive, 6. Utterance, 7. Abominate, 12. Overall, 14. Ocular, 16. Decade, 17. Etude.

True or False Trivia Answers

1. False – it can lift 5,000 times their body weight

2. True

3. False – it is Japan

4. False – Dolphins are mammals

5. False

6. False – it is the Femur

From

7. False – It comes from Canada created in 1962

8. False – it was between 38-45: The Anglo-Zanzibar War

9. True – it is 64 minutes long

10. True

• Composite

• Bi-folding doors

• Traditional conservatories

• Contemporary 'skyroom'

• Verandas

• Roofline – fascias, soffits & guttering

• Cladding – smooth or textured