ON THE RIGHT TRACK: NIGERIAN STUDENT’S DREAM COMING TRUE Page 4
SCRUMMY SUMMER: TOP TIPS FOR A VEGGIE BARBECUE Page 26
WELCOME VISITORS: HOW YOU CAN MAKE A HOME FOR BATS
SUMMER is finally here – the season we’ve all been waiting for.
Summer is a great time to enjoy extra health benefits that come with the warm, sunny season.
After a long winter, we can finally look forward to the sunshine.
Ice cream and cold beverages, dressing in dresses or shorts, barbecues in the garden... it’s the best time of the year.
The summer also has several mental health benefits – sun exposure boosts vitamin D levels, sunlight is known to make you happier, summer holidays and vacations reduce depression and anxiety, your sleep quality may improve and your eating habits change for the better.
By getting out, even just for 30 minutes, the positive impact of warm, sunny weather can have on mental health and mood is real, according to research.
There’s so much to do in the summer, maybe you fancy a picnic in the park, or a day’s trip to an amusement park.
We have a packed magazine for you to read this edition.
As well as a regular round-up of positive news from around Barnsley there are a number of other features.
I also enjoyed a recent trip to Gawber Primary School to see how they celebrated their 50th anniversary.
We find out how to attract bats to your garden –some of those tips may surprise you – they did me.
With it being barbecue season we take a look at how you can make EVERYONE happy with some vegetarian and vegan options.
There is also a car review from our in-house motoring expert Josh Timlin and advice on interior designs with an emphasis on fresher colours and how a simple houseplant can finish off a room. As well as which one to buy if you have not been gifted with green fingers.
We will be back in autumn with another magazine. If you would like to advertise or feature in it, get in touch by caling: 01226 734632.
MAIN FEATURE: We visit Gawber Primary School as they celebrate their 50th anniversary.
Pages: six and seven.
A warm welcome awaits you at
Enjoy 'good food, done well' in the Hide & Hoof restaurant. Relish in a delicious, seasonal menu packed full of family favourites. Devour a full Yorkshire breakfast, eggs florentine, a delicious burger, a great seasonal salad or an afternoon tea.
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BARNSLEY College health apprentice Monday
Omoregbe is on the road to his dream career after leaving Nigeria and his family behind.
Monday left Nigeria in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic to further his education and seek new opportunities in the UK, which led him to study his apprenticeship at the college alongside working at the South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.
Since last July, Monday has been completing his level two adult care worker apprenticeship whilst working as a healthcare support worker in the acute mental health service for SWYFT, providing support and care for patients with severe mental health illnesses.
His desire to start a career in nursing began with volunteering as a Covid marshall across Bradford when he wanted to positively contribute to the challenges the pandemic was presenting in his local community.
Monday said: “Moving to the UK was a difficult choice to make.
“Leaving my family and friends in Nigeria was a big step, but it also allowed me to rediscover myself.
“Today I am not only working in a career I have passion for, but I’m also working towards a qualification that will help me turn that passion into a profession.
“I have this passion within me, and it drives me to show compassion to people, especially when they need it the most.
“The satisfaction I get from caring, supporting and showing compassion to individuals drives me to do more.
“When I receive compliments from colleagues and patients, it serves as motivation to do more.”
Monday is on track to complete his adult care worker apprenticeship later this year and is gaining the knowledge, skills and behaviours that will allow him to apply for a trainee nurse associate role.
FORMER and current pupils at a local primary school took a trip down memory lane last week as the school celebrated its 50th birthday.
The school, Gawber Primary, based on Church Street, kick-started the celebrations on Thursday with a pop-up museum sharing memorabilia that has shaped its history.
Photographs and artefacts of Gawber throughout the years were also on display, including a ‘This Is Your Life’ red book of former pupil and Emmerdale star Stan Richards, who played the role of Seth Armstrong in the ITV show between 1978 and 2004.
Rachel Knox, deputy headteacher, who was also a pupil at the school, curated the museum alongside Gawber History Group and the wider community, who she said, have a great relationship.
When asked about Rachel’s best memory during her time at Gawber, she told the Chronicle: “I have so many happy memories, I’ve been here four years now and I’ve enjoyed every single day.
“I’d probably say my favourite memory was when I received a phone call from the headteacher offering me the role of deputy head.
“It was a job I’d dreamed of since being a nine-year-old Gawber pupil myself – so it was very surreal. Another favourite memory is the annual pet shows we used to have – they were great and we’d have competitions.”
Headteacher Dawn Bradshaw described the fiftieth anniversary as a great opportunity for the whole community to come together to enjoy a fun-filled summer’s afternoon, while also raising vital funds for the Parent Teacher Association.
She added: “Schools are facing huge increases in resources and utility costs.
“The PTA have always supported schools by providing the extra ‘treats’ for our children.
“But we increasingly have to rely on funding from PTA events in order to buy general resources, so that we can maintain the very best experiences for our children.”
Continued on Page 7
The school’s mascot, Jeffrika – an inflatable giraffe – was also on display at the event, welcoming the community to see how the Ofsted ‘outstanding’ school has evolved over the years as children queued for a photo.
Also part of the celebrations, the school hosted a ‘Magic Door’ writing competition where pupils were tasked with writing
a special story with the hope that they would be published in a book. Around 150 children had their stories published. Rachel said: “I still find it crazy how much the school has achieved and how well I’ve fitted in and become a part of the Gawber family in only a short amount of time. I think about it all the time – how I always dreamed of working here one
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day after coming on work placement, and then being offered a job. “These kind of events really bring people together and it’s lovely seeing so many parents and guardians interested in the school’s history and how things have changed.”
Barnsley Central MP Dan Jarvis, Coun Trevor Cave and the Mayor of Barnsley
Coun Michael Stowe were also in attendance, with Dan writing a memory in their memory book stating: “Gawber Primary School is exceptional.
“Such a friendly, inclusive place to learn. I have been so impressed with all the teachers and students that I have met. I look forward to visiting again soon. “Happy 50th birthday.”
Come and visit us at Unit 21 Shortwood Court, Barnsley, S74 9LH (appointment only). Call us on 0333 5678 747 or check us out at www.skypods.co.uk or on all our social media channels.
BARNSLEY College raised more than £400 for the hospice through a variety of fundraisers – including eating crickets, mealworms and locusts.
A total of £402 was raised by the college’s business department as part of Barnsley Hospice’s annual accumulator challenge.
The challenge sees participants raise as much as possible during May using a loan of just £31. Over the past five years, the challenge has raised almost £70,000 for the hospice.
Vicky Kenny, a tutorial team leader in the department, said: “It feels great to have raised so much money for Barnsley Hospice.
“It means so much to me personally following my brother having several stays there.
“We tried to be really creative this year by doing the bug-eating challenge and it looks like that’s paid off.
“I’m sure this money will make a difference and I’d like to thank everyone who donated.”
Simon Atkinson, corporate relationships manager at Barnsley Hospice, added: “Our Accumulator Challenge has been running for over five years now, and I truly thought I had seen it all until I heard Barnsley College’s business department were planning to hold a bug-eating contest.
“Thank you to everyone involved in putting together a fantastic month of fundraising and raising a great amount for the hospice.”
HEARTS: Sue Burgan with the display.
BARNSLEY Hospital bosses have created a new installation at the Gawber Road site – after receiving thousands of donations.
During the Covid-19 pandemic Barnsley Hospital received many donations, amongst which were thousands of pairs of knitted hearts.
The idea behind the hearts was to give
a matching pair to a patient and their family so as to maintain a connection when visiting was restricted.
Following the pandemic the hospital still had hundreds of hearts in storage.
Such was the volume of hearts, and not wanting to waste them, a creative and enterprising member of the council’s projects team, Sue Burgan, was inspired
to take action. A spokesperson for the hospital said: “With support from Barnsley Hospital Charity, project manager Sue set about arranging the hearts in frames with the intention of creating a lasting memory of the compassion, challenges, suffering and loss the pandemic brought.
“Sue has been out delivering the hearts
in the past few days along with Barnsley Hospital Chair Sheena McDonnell, and with support from some of our wonderful hospital volunteers.
“Wards and departments have welcomed these mementoes graciously as part of our celebrations fro NHS75, the 75th anniversary of the National Health Service.”
A NEW volunteer hub will be created at Worsbrough Mill after funding was secured from the National Lottery Community Fund.
Barnsley Museums and Heritage Trust secured £10,000 through the scheme, which will allow a space in Worsbrough Mill to be refurbished for existing and new volunteers to use.
The hub will provide a welcoming space for volunteers and staff, where they can relax, socialise and feel part of the team.
It will also enable volunteer taster sessions to take place, encouraging new volunteers to get involved.
Barnsley Museums are keen to encourage younger people and those new to the area to get involved in projects.
Coun Robert Frost, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “Volunteering plays a crucial part in the work of Barnsley Museums.
“Our volunteers offer skills, enthusiasm, and knowledge that enhance our five museum sites and in return, we offer experiences and the opportunity to make new friends.
“We are delighted to have secured this funding that will benefit the volunteers creating a modern, relaxing, and inviting space for them to spend time in.”
PENISTONE grandparents Les and Julie Barden were on a winner when they caught Britain’s poshest train for a slap-up trip to Royal Ascot.
It might have been their 13th trip aboard the 1930s Pullman-style Northern Belle –once part of the iconic Orient Express group – but it certainly turned out to be lucky.
Not only did they celebrate with champagne after backing the winners of the third, fourth and fifth races, but Barnsley-born and trained onboard chef Matthew Green prepared a Yorkshire pudding dinner specially for 65-yearold retired quarry worker Les during the journey home.
Julie, 59, said: “Les is a bit of a fussy eater and doesn’t like anything too fancy so Matthew, who has become a good friend since we started travelling on the Northern Belle, always phones us before our trips.
“He cooked up a full English breakfast for Les on the way to Ascot and then a special dinner on the way home. That’s one of the things we love about the Belle – the staff really can’t do enough to make your journey memorable.”
Les, who only retired from work a fortnight ago, added: “It was a great day out. Matthew knows I’m not keen on those fancy dishes they normally serve, so he always does some plain food specially for me.”
Each pair of words has a missing word between them that acts as a link to both (eg FRONT - DOOR - MAT). The shaded squares of the six answers (reading downwards) will spell out a random word.
There is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3x3 box. This is a logic puzzle, and you should not have to guess.
ACROSS
7 Way to get full charge (12)
8 Seat is prepared for a nap (6)
9 Poles rolling over side of hill (5)
10 Plaice cooked in ship providing dishes of the day (8)
13 Harsh sound from river snake (4)
15 Is able to take in one old murderer (4)
16 Bad directions, everyone returns to Welsh town (8)
17 Cast finished talking (5)
19 Haiti tourist’s first moving to another island (6)
21 Senior using net with second‑placed rider? (6,6)
DOWN
1 I hope it transformed a country in Africa (8)
2 Dances a little and grasp Obama’s back (4)
3 Never my pleasure! (3,2,3)
4 Pay not beginning for a time (4)
5 Certainly going in the wrong direction, one French leader absent (2,6)
6 Interior decorator fed fish (4)
11 Engineer breaks tin cover (8)
12 Renowned solicitor to begin (5,3)
14 Single royalist at loggerheads (8)
17 Three riot when unruly (4)
18 Minor part of a hospital (4)
20 Draughts manoeuvre causes fit of annoyance (4)
Using all nine letters provided, can you answer these clues? Every answer must include the central letter. Which word uses all nine letters?
5 letters
Cravings
Crossbars
Onrush
Phones
Prosecuting
6 letters (Had) leapt Enlist (2 words) Leave a job
Thrusts Unmarried
7 letters
Cricket bowling technique (2 words)
Luxury knitwear brand
8 letters
Drinking noisily
Reading
Lunges Single Leg spin Pringle Slurping Perusing Repulsing
Urges Rungs Surge Rings Suing Sprung Sign up Resign
ACROSS
7 Highway (12)
8 Afternoon nap (6)
9 Gradient (5)
10 Part‑time policemen (8)
13 Coarse file (4)
15 Abel’s brother (4)
16 S Wales town (8)
17 Chucked (5)
19 Island in the S Pacific (6)
21 Older computer user (6,6)
DOWN
1 Modern Abyssinia (8)
2 Dances (4)
3 Don’t mention it! (3,2,3)
4 Grows old (4)
5 Naturally! (2,6)
6 Golden fish (4)
11 Arrange (8)
12 Set off (5,3)
14 Alone (8)
17 Group of three (4)
18 Electoral district (4)
20 Fit of annoyance (4)
All puzzles copyright Puzzler Media Ltd. www.puzzler.com
A YORKSHIRE-BASED theatre company Panto-Ever-After recently held auditions to discover talented dancers for their upcoming pantomime, set to grace the stage of Barnsley Civic later this year.
It has been nearly 26 years since a pantomime delighted audiences at Barnsley Civic, but in association with Panto-Ever-After, the town centre venue will present the fairy-tale classic, Cinderella.
The eagerly-awaited performance of Cinderella will debut on Saturday, December 9, 2023, and continue its magical run until December 26, 2023.
In a fantastic collaboration, Panto-Ever-After has partnered with Barnsley’s very own Starstruck School of Theatre Dance, led by Amy Schofield.
Last weekend, auditions took place at the dance school, where an array of exceptionally talented dancers showcased their skills. Amy Schofield, who established the dance school 13 years ago, has dedicated herself to nurturing young talent and creating unforgettable experiences for her students. The school proudly holds membership with the International Dance Teaching Association (IDTA), encouraging students to participate in IDTA exams. With an outstanding 100% pass rate year after year, the students continue
to achieve remarkable success. Expressing her elation, Amy Schofield said: “Being involved in the pantomime has been a dream of mine for a long time. Performing on stage is one of my earliest and fondest memories, and I am so thrilled to be given the opportunity to choreograph Cinderella this year for PantoEver-After. Working with Barnsley Civic is just amazing and a dream come true. I can’t wait to go on this journey with my dancers at the school, who are all so excited to be involved.”
Fiona Egan, part of Panto-Ever-After and portraying the Fairy Godmother, added: “It was a great afternoon, with an abundance of talented dancers at the school, making it challenging to choose.”
Despite the scorching weather, the dancers showcased their passion and determination during auditions, delivering exceptional performances under challenging circumstances. Out of the pool of amazing talent, two teams of eight dancers will be selected to participate in the enchanting production of Cinderella, promising a fantastic event.
Audiences can anticipate an unforgettable show packed with laughter, surprises, toe-tapping songs, plenty of gags, and fun for the entire family.
Tickets for Cinderella are currently on sale and can be booked online at barnsleycivic.co.uk or by visiting the Box Office located on Hanson Street.
THINKING OF a change this summer?
Colours change with the seasons but we have got a bang up to date guide for what’s in this year. Here are the top suggestions for decorating your living room.
Green: Green is a popular choice for living rooms in 2023, as it is a calming and relaxing colour that is also associated with nature. There are many different shades of green to choose from, so you can find one that suits your style and the overall feel of your living room. Some popular green paint colours for 2023 include:
Sage: Sage is a light and airy green that is perfect for small living rooms. It can also be used to create a more traditional or rustic look.
Emerald: Emerald is a deep and rich green that is perfect for larger living rooms. It can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to any space.
Mint: Mint is a fresh and playful green that is perfect for modern living rooms. It can also be used to create a more coastal or beachy vibe.
Grey: Grey is another popular choice for living rooms in 2023. It is a versatile colour that can be used to create a variety of different looks, from modern and minimalist to traditional and cosy.
Some more popular grey paint colours for 2023 include:
Cloud White: Cloud White is a light and airy grey that is perfect for small living rooms. It can also be used to create a more modern or minimalist look.
Iron Ore: Iron Ore is a dark and moody grey that is perfect for larger living rooms. It can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any space.
Stormy Sky: Stormy Sky is a mediumtoned grey that is perfect for living rooms that get a lot of natural light. It can help to create a sense of calm and serenity in your space.
Blue: Blue is a classic colour that is always in style. It is a calming and relaxing colour that can also be used to create a sense of spaciousness in a small living room. Some popular blue paint colours for 2023 include:
Sky Blue: Sky Blue is a light and airy blue that is perfect for small living rooms.
It can also be used to create a more traditional or coastal look.
Navy: Navy is a deep and rich blue that is perfect for larger living rooms. It can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to any space.
Teal: Teal is a vibrant and playful blue that is perfect for modern living rooms. It can also be used to create a more tropical or beachy vibe.
Black: Black is a bold and dramatic colour that can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to any living room. However, it is important to use black sparingly, as it can make a space feel small and cramped. If you are considering using black in your living room, it is best to pair it with lighter colours to balance the look.
White: White is a classic and versatile colour that is always in style. It is a great
choice for small living rooms, as it can help to create a sense of spaciousness. White can also be used to create a more modern or minimalist look.
When choosing a paint colour for your living room, it is important to consider the size of your space, the style of your furniture, and the overall feel you want to create. You should also consider the amount of natural light your living room receives. If your living room gets a lot of natural light, you can choose a lighter colour paint. If your living room doesn’t get a lot of natural light, you can choose a darker colour paint.
It is also a good idea to test out different paint colours in your living room before you make a final decision.
You can do this by painting a small section of the wall with each colour you are considering and go from there...
Monday & Tuesday
Hairdresser/nails
• Wash & Cut (30mins)
• Wash & Dry (30mins)
• Wash, Cut & Dry (1hr)
• Gel Polish
Wednesday
Massage Therapy
• Hand & Head Massage (30mins)
• Back Massage (30mins)
• Full body (1hr)
Age UK Barnsley is a local Charity helping the older people of Barnsley
Age UK is a local charity helping the older people of Barnsley
Thursday Foot Health Clinic
For more information or to book please call us on 01226 776827 Monday – Friday, 9.30 – 3.30pm alternatively email us at enquiries@ageukbarnsley.org.uk
For more information or to book please call us on 01226 776827 Monday - Friday, 9.30 – 3.30pm
e: enquiries@ageukbarnsley.org.uk
Age UK Barnsley @AgeUK_Barnsley
No set fee is applied for any treatments - however any donation would be greatly appreciated.
Please call for more information
No set fee is applied for any treatments –however any donation would be greatly appreciated.
RECOGNITION:
Colleen Wilson received an award as a testament to her dedication, loyalty and compassion towards Thornhill House where she has worked for 34 years.
A WOMAN who has dedicated more than 30 years of her life caring for residents in a care home has won an award.
Colleen Wilson, originally from Swinton and now living in Darfield, has worked at Thornhill House since 1989.
In November, Colleen received recognition from Harpreet Banwait from Strong Life Care – which operates the home – who described her as a ‘credit and inspiration to the care home’.
Colleen was named the winner at the 2023 Social Stars competition – which was held at London Marriott Hotel last Saturday – winning the ‘joy maker’ award.
The award recognises a special individual who spreads joy and happiness amongst their colleagues and residents.
A Thornhill House spokesperson said: “Colleen is a true inspiration – a credit to us.
“She’s such a caring and joyful person who fills the home with love and laughter.
“On behalf of all the staff and residents, we are very proud.”
HAVING A houseplant is the modern accessory every room needs to finish off the look. But which one should you go for?
It is a crowded and confusing market and if you are just starting out, it’s probably a daunting one.
Luckily we have come up with a guide of the easiest ones to maintain, whatever your space.
Snake plant (Sansevieria) is one of the easiest and hardiest plants to care for. It can tolerate low light, infrequent watering, and even neglect. Snake plants are also known for their air-purifying qualities.
ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is another low-maintenance plant that is perfect for beginners. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in low-light conditions. ZZ plants are also known for their shiny, dark green leaves.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of conditions. It is tolerant of low light, but it will grow faster and produce more leaves in brighter light. Pothos is also a fast-growing plant, so it is a good choice if you are looking for a plant that will fill out a space quickly.
Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is another easy-care plant that is perfect for beginners. It is known for its long, trailing leaves that can be easily propagated. Spider plants are also known for their air-purifying qualities.
Peace lily (Spathiphyllum patinii) is a tropical plant that is known for its white flowers. It is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require bright,
indirect light and regular watering. Peace lilies are a good choice for beginners who are looking for a plant with a touch of elegance.
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that is known for its medicinal properties. It is also relatively easy to care for and can tolerate low light and infrequent watering. Aloe vera plants can be grown indoors or outdoors, and they are a good choice for beginners who are looking for a plant with multiple benefits.
These are just a few of the many easycare houseplants that are perfect for beginners. With a little research, you can find the perfect plant for your home and your lifestyle.
Here are some additional tips for caring for houseplants:
• Water your plants regularly, but don’t overwater them. The best way to determine how much water your plant needs is to check the soil moisture. The soil should be moist, but not soggy.
• Place your plants in a spot where they will receive the appropriate amount of light. Some plants need bright, direct sunlight, while others prefer indirect light.
• Fertilise your plants regularly, especially during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer label.
• Repot your plants as needed. When a plant outgrows its pot, it will need to be repotted into a larger container.
• Prune your plants regularly. This will help to keep them healthy and promote new growth.
• Inspect your plants regularly for pests and diseases. If you see any problems,
take action immediately.
With a little care and attention, you can enjoy your houseplants for many years to come.
Dracaena marginata is a tropical plant that is known for its striped leaves. It
is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require bright, indirect light and regular watering.
Dracaena marginata plants can grow quite large, so they should be placed in a spot where they have plenty of space.
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A BARNSLEY team’s staff were ‘honoured’ to have joined the nationwide network of organisations that have pledged their support through the Armed Forces Covenant.
Barnsley Facilities Service provide estates, facilities, procurement and outpatient pharmaceutical services to the healthcare sector and operate as a subsidiary to Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
The commitment, they say, reflects their deep gratitude to the armed forces community and their determination to make a positive difference.
Robert McCubbin, managing director, said: “As an organisation, we value diversity and inclusivity.
“By signing the Armed Forces Covenant, we strengthen our commitment to promoting equality of opportunity for all, including those who are connected to the armed forces.
“We are determined to foster an environment that celebrates the contributions and sacrifices made by the armed forces community, promoting a culture of mutual respect and appreciation.
Sharon Botham, learning and organisational development trainer, added: “We had the pleasure of captain Malcolm Birkett MBE coming to meet some of our ex-forces staff, and witnessing Robert signing the covenant.”
Open Monday to Saturday, 9.30am
We stock all the latest titles, with a wide-range of fiction and non-fiction. If you can’t find it in store, we can order it for you! Plus bookmarks, notebooks, greeting cards, with more jigsaws and other products arriving every week.
Looking for ideas for new summer reads? Visit us to find new writing for all ages and interests, and pick up a copy of our Summer brochure.
We have lots of signed books of authors including Milly Johnson, Ian McMillan and Joanne Harris.
More to find in store! Current signed and exclusive editions include Raynor Winn, Kevin Sinfield and Simon Armitage. More to come, including the new Richard Osman in September.
4.30pm
For those unable to visit we offer a mail order service, with home delivery for the local area. You can also visit our dedicated Children’s area, a space to discover worlds of magic and wonder. Lots of books, plus Orchard Toys, Gibson Games and other gifts.
As well as writers such as Milly Johnson and Ian McMillan, we have a range of local interest books. We have a growing selection from Pen and Sword on local heritage, landscape and history, and stock the Memories of Barnsley quarterly magazine.
To order and pre-order books mentioned or any others, for store collection or delivery, please contact us!
A 140-page book looking in-depth at the experiences of Barnsley and its people throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
Unbroken commemorates how people and organisations came together to tackle one of the most difficult periods in living memory. It features archive stories and imagery, reflective commentary from Barnsley Chronicle and many other groups within our community.
Find out more in next week’s Barnsley Chronicle and by signing up to our mailing list at www.barnsley-chronicle.co.uk
FOR ANY meat lover the prospect of having a vegetarian over for a summer barbecue can cause a bit of stress. But there is no need to meekly point them in the way of the salads. There are plenty of tasty dishes that can go on the barbecue.
Follow the recipe below to make sure everyone leaves with a full belly at your summer soiree.
Here are some of the best vegetarian dishes to cook on the barbecue in the UK:
• Halloumi skewers are a classic vegetarian barbecue option. Halloumi is a salty, squeaky cheese that holds up well to grilling. To make halloumi skewers, simply cut the cheese into cubes or strips and thread them onto skewers. You can marinate the halloumi in a simple vinaigrette or barbecue sauce before grilling, or simply grill it plain. Halloumi skewers are delicious served with a side of grilled vegetables or rice.
• Vegetable kebabs are another great option for a vegetarian barbecue. You can use any combination of vegetables that you like, but some popular choices include peppers, onions, mushrooms, zucchini and tomatoes. To make vegetable kebabs, simply chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers. You can marinate the vegetables in a vinaigrette or barbecue sauce before grilling, or simply grill them plain. Vegetable kebabs are delicious served with a side of hummus or baba ghanoush.
• Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer barbecue side dish, and it’s also a great option for vegetarians. To grill corn on the cob, simply husk the corn
and remove the silk. Brush the corn with melted butter or olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, or until the kernels are cooked through. Grilled corn on the cob is delicious served with a side of your favourite barbecue sauce or salsa.
• Grilled sweet potatoes are another delicious and versatile vegetarian barbecue option. To grill sweet potatoes,
simply slice them into thick wedges and brush them with olive oil. Season the sweet potatoes with salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs and spices. Grill the sweet potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly charred. Grilled sweet potatoes are delicious served with a side of your favourite barbecue sauce or yogurt dressing.
• Tofu skewers are a great way to enjoy
the smoky flavour of the barbecue without meat. To make tofu skewers, simply press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into cubes or strips and thread them onto skewers. You can marinate the tofu in a simple vinaigrette or barbecue sauce before grilling, or simply grill it plain. Tofu skewers are delicious served with a side of grilled vegetables or rice.
• Falafel burgers are a great alternative to traditional beef burgers. Falafel are made from ground chickpeas, which are high in protein and fibre. To make falafel burgers, simply form the falafel mixture into patties and grill them for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Falafel burgers are delicious served on buns with your favourite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, onion and hummus.
• Vegetable burgers are another great option for vegetarians. There are many different vegetable burger recipes available, so you can find one that suits your taste. Some popular vegetable burger ingredients include black beans, lentils, quinoa, and sweet potato. To make vegetable burgers, simply combine the ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Form the mixture into patties and grill them for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Vegetable burgers are delicious served on buns with your favourite toppings.
These are just a few of the many delicious vegetarian dishes that can be cooked on the barbecue in the UK. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find a vegetarian barbecue dish that everyone will enjoy.
IT IS the time of year when bats start appearing in gardens.
Never seen any? Perhaps you can do a little more to attract them.
Here is a guide on how to boost numbers.
Bats are fascinating creatures that play an important role in our ecosystem. They are insectivores, meaning they eat insects, and can help to control pest populations. Bats are also pollinators, and some species even help to disperse seeds. If you are interested in attracting bats to your garden in the UK, there are a few things you can do.
1. Plant night-scented flowers. Bats are attracted to flowers that emit a strong scent at night, such as honeysuckle, jasmine, and evening primrose. These flowers will provide bats with a source of nectar, which they need for energy.
2. Build a bat box. A bat box is a small wooden box that provides bats with a safe place to roost during the day. Bat boxes can be purchased from a variety of retailers, or you can make your own. When choosing a bat box, make sure it is the right size and type for the bats in your area. You can find more information on bat boxes and how to choose the right one on the Bat Conservation Trust website.
3. Create a water source. Bats need water to drink and bathe. You can provide a water source for bats by installing a birdbath or pond in your garden. Make sure the water is clean and fresh, and that the birdbath or pond is located in a shady spot.
4. Let your garden go a little wild. Bats
are attracted to gardens that are overgrown and provide plenty of hiding places. You can encourage bats to your garden by leaving some areas of your garden unmowed and by planting native plants that provide shelter.
5. Avoid using pesticides. Pesticides can kill bats and the insects they eat. If you want to attract bats to your garden, it is important to avoid using pesticides.
6. Keep cats indoors at night. Cats are
a major predator of bats. If you have a cat, it is important to keep it indoors at night to protect bats. By following these tips, you can create a bat-friendly garden in your UK home. Bats are beneficial creatures that can help to control pest populations and pollinate plants. By attracting bats to your garden, you can help to improve the health of your local ecosystem.
Here are some additional tips for
attracting bats to your garden:
n Hang your bat box in a south-facing position, at least two metres off the ground.
n Make sure the bat box is secure and cannot be accessed by predators.
n Check your bat box regularly for signs of occupancy.
n If you are not sure how to attract bats to your garden, you can contact your local bat conservation group for advice.
THE rising temperatures in the summer are hard enough for us to cope with – but it can be even harder for our beloved pets.
Walking your dog on a hot day can have catastrophic effects – and the RSPCA have put together a list of the dos and don’ts and how to best take care of your furry friend this summer. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your dog stays cool during the summer months.
n Never leave dogs in hot cars, conservatories, outbuildings or caravans on a warm day (even if only for a short while).
When it’s 22°C outside, temperatures can quickly rise to 47°C (117°F) in these environments, which can be fatal.
n Use pet-safe sun cream on exposed parts of your pet’s skin, such as the tips of their ears and nose, to avoid sunburn. This is especially important if your dog has white or light-coloured fur, as they can be
very vulnerable to getting burnt. If you’re unsure which is the right product to use, please ask your vet.
n Ensure pets always have access to shade and fresh drinking water to help keep them cool.
n Check every day for flystrike – this can be fatal.
n Put ice cubes into your dog’s water bowl or make some tasty ice treats. You could also freeze a kong with treats and water.
n Give your pet damp towels to lie on (never place a damp towel over your dog as this can trap in heat) or an ice pack wrapped in a towel. Both simple methods could provide welcome relief from the heat.
n If you’re planning a day out with your dog, check before leaving home whether dogs are allowed. If they’re not, arrange a pet-sitter or choose another, dog-friendly attraction.
VOLKSWAGEN’S ID range – the marque’s brilliant line-up of all-electric vehicles – is being touted as a key driver of its future sales.
So, in short, they simply have to be good and a worthy alternative in order for its loyal army of buyers to move away from their beloved Golfs and Tiguans –which in current guises are largely flawless – into the electric sector.
Quality, as ever with VW, is high on the agenda and this car – the ID4 – certainly possesses that in abundance. Lookswise it follows the same ID flavour as its smaller ‘3’ and larger ‘5’ siblings, so there’s the cross-bumper light bar and honeycomb grilles. It’s a good-looking car; modern, crisp and appealing to the majority.
Open up the door and you’re met with a continuation of that ultra-modern design: it’s minimalistic and aside from the infotainment system to the left and the smaller screen nestling behind the steering wheel, that’s pretty much it. It’s sleek, there’s expensive-feeling materials on the dash and doors, and gloss black facia in between the front seats adds yet more quality.
Although some of what you need is housed in a menu, hiding in amongst another hard-to-get-to menu accessed via
the touchscreen, VW’s cleverly retained four must-haves as buttons below: the main menu, climate, assist and mode. Climate speaks for itself, assist is where you can turn off pre-collision warning and lane assist annoyances, and mode gives you the opportunity to access its sportier traits.
The gear selector – despite being awkwardly positioned at first to the right of the steering column – actually takes seconds to get used to and its location becomes handy as there’s ample room where gearsticks and shifters generally are.
The ID4 comes with either a 52kWh or 77kWh battery, but models with the smaller battery are available with either 146bhp or 168bhp, badged as Pure and Pure Performance respectively.
Go for the 77kWh battery and you get either a 172bhp Pro and 201bhp Pro Performance powertrain – like this one – with the larger battery also boosting the range from roughly 220 miles up to around 320 miles.
The Pro Performance is quick enough for most, but it does run out of puff – a 7.8-second dash to 60mph is a fair chunk slower than say an Kia EV6 alternative. There is a range-topping GTX version, which slashes that by a second-and-
a-half, if you do want something more spritely.
However, its range is where it claws back that slight deficit as it’s properly impressive. EV manufacturers often have a tendency for exaggerating range claims, but the ID4 is pretty much bang on the nose.
To drive, it’s far more controlled than both the EV6 and Ford Mustang Mach-E, which makes it a much better family-friendly alternative to that pair which have a habit of having choppy, com-
promising rides.
The ID4’s battery warranty lasts for eight years – or 100,000 miles – and the rest of the car is warranted for three years or 60,000 miles. That’s a respectable package and will give peace of mind to any EV cynics who have worries about battery reliability or degradation.
Starting from a smidge over £38,000, the ID4 is pretty much the pick of the bunch if you’re after a well-equipped, modern EV with a very good range. It had to be good and it most definitely is.
