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Letter from the Editor:
Hi everyone. We have a packed magazine this month. Anthony enlightens us of the Star Project - an ambitious renovation programme of St Andrew’s Church in Great Staughton. Boiler Juice have the monthly oil price update for us. Canine Corner inform the dog owners amongst us how to tackle territorial behaviour. Georgia Rose encourages us to complete that novel you were meaning to finish. Hazel’s flash fiction is entitled ‘I Can’t Find My Heart’ and Penny’s latest instalment of her family memoirs focuses on her three times great grandfather who was a ‘greatly respected man’. Sally Gower champions the romantic comedy genre and Inn Farm have suggestions as to how our young children’s imagination can be developed and how they can be encouraged to be more creative. There is lots more besides and don’t forget to check out our community pages.
Julie
www.bystandermagazines.com
Enquires:
Mobile: 07928 778457
julie@villagebystander.com
This Month’s Contributors:
Lee Munday, Paul Kinally, Penny Young, Tony Larkins, Joanne Cox, Georgia Rose, Anthony Withers, Hazel Wright, Eugene Smith, Sally Gower
February Contents
Editor’s Letter
P.4
Health, Fitness, Beauty & Wellbeing p.8-9
Anthony Withers - English History And A Church Tour p.12
Inn Farm - Developing Imagination p.14
Penny Young - A Greatly Respected Man p.16-17
Crossword, Wordseach & Sudoku p.18
Gardening & Outdoor Section p.22-24
Lee’s Gardening Corner p.22
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue p.30
Hazel Wright - I can’t find my heart p.32
Beacon Wealth Management - Use It Or Lose It: What To Do Before Tax Year End p.33
Springtime On The Farm p.34-35
Eugene Smith - LOVE Theatre p.36
Recipe: Leek, Onion and Potato Soup p.42
Georgia Rose p.44
Peter Lane and Partners - Not Lost in Translation p.48
Just For Kids! p.50
Sally Gower - The Rom-Com is…dead good?
Long live romance p.54
Bystander Community p.56-66
The Staughtons with Hail Weston
Church Services p.62
Canine Corner - Territorial Behaviour p.70
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue: Take Charge and Be Safe p.72
What’s On for Children? p.76
Nurseries, Primary & Secondary Schools p.76-77
Useful and Emergency Numbers p.77
Clubs, Groups & Organisations p.78-79
Mobile Library Times p.79
Business Listings p.80
Choose from a selection of at least 3 homemade pies, alongside a choice of potato, side and sauce. We will also have some delicious puddings on offer to finish.
Pint of draught lager or ale OR a glass of white or red wine.
Opening Hours: Wednesday 12-6pm, Thursday 10:30-5pm, Friday 10.30-7pm, Saturday 10.30-5pm For more information pop-in and see us at 21 High St Kimbolton, check out our website www.whitchurchwines.shop or email jeff@whitchurchwines.shop
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Unisex hairdressers
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Give us a call today on 07733482359
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Fun With Santa Oy Lapland holidays
Stay in our cozy log cabin in Äkäslompolo, Ylläs, Finland. We can also arrange your full itinerary from the moment you land in Lapland till the moment you leave. Searching for Santa, Huskies, Reindeer Safaris, Snowmobile Safaris and much more.
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English History And A Church Tour
St Andrew’s church in Great Staughton is just beginning a major renovation programme, probably the most ambitious undertaking since the Victorian refurbishment of the church in 1866. It’s called the StAR Project and its objective is to convert the area near the west tower into a community space open to everyone regardless of whether they are church goers, non-religious or of another religion. It is envisaged that the space could be used for theatre and musical events, for meetings and society gatherings and children’s activities.
The village church is at the heart of our national story and its history should be of interest to everyone. There are currently siren calls for our approach to history especially in the schools needs to be more diverse. It used to be a joke (was it ever true?) that history as taught in our schools dealt exclusively with just two topics: Henry VIII and his six wives and the Nazis. It’s right that we try to present a fair picture of how Britain developed from the Roman Britannia to the present day, but there’s no need to go overboard in focusing disproportionately on minority interests ahead of the broad canvas of British history, warts and all. One way to obtain a good perspective on our national story is to visit your local church and appreciate how our history has evolved over the last thousand years. Every church has its own story to tell, even if it does not involve exceptional figures like Shakespeare or Nelson. We are very fortunate in Great Staughton in having such a rich mine to draw upon but every church has its story and I’m puzzled as to why it is not told. Go into any church and its history (which probably goes back eight centuries or more) is left untold.
Here's the thing: it’s easy to get started on the story. Go the Huntingdon Records Office and request a copy of the Victorian County History for Huntingdonshire (there are volumes covering every county). The VCH gives details of every parish and village in the county with exhaustive detail on the people who played a role, locally and perhaps nationally in its and our history. It’s like a piece of a jigsaw. Collected together over the whole country the picture of English history. Every parish church ought to have a brief history on display, in my view.
So our Project in Great Staughton will obviously require an enormous amount of fundraising and this started, in a modest fashion, on January 11 with a guided tour of the church. Those of you who have visited St Andrew’s will be well aware of the numerous monuments, tablets, memorial and brasses on display. But how many people know the stories behind these sometimes surprisingly brief and uninformative plaques? Of course if you have read my book on Great Staughton and its People you will have all this historical information at your fingertips.
The next guided tour of St Andrew’s will take place on February 15, starting at 11am. The cost is a mere £6 which includes tea/coffee and biscuits and all proceeds will go to the StAR Project. Why not come and join us? It could cheer up and otherwise miserable February morning! Just email me below to reserve your place.
Anthony Withers aw.staughton@gmail.com
A Greatly Respected Man
Penny Young
My three times Gt Grandfather, (Nicholas Kendall 1800-1878), decided not to fight his parliamentary seat in the 1868 general election after the local farmers in his constituency had turned against him for a decision he had taken relating to the salary of the governor of the local gaol. After Nicholas had been replaced, the farmers very quickly realised the error of their ways and a huge subscription was got up, subscribed to by the poorest and wealthiest people in the constituency, together with an engraved solid silver platter, which was presented to him at a dinner, shortly before he left the Country to take up his position as Police Magistrate in Gibraltar.
The dinner referred to below is when he had returned to Cornwall for a holiday following the absence of a year.
West Briton & Cornwall Advertiser Thursday1stDecember1870
I had always felt proud of my three times great grandfather, but reading this article has made me think, not only do they not make his like anymore – but how we need his like in parliament now.
QUICK CROSSWORD
Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards, or backwards.
Please support our small community shop, run by volunteers and paid staff.
We are just off Brampton Road about a 1�� mile from �ra�am Water Marlow car park (cycle centre), and next door to our community pub The �ra�am Trout.
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Monthly Heating Oil Price Update: Sponsored by BoilerJuice
Price update
Heating oil prices have risen in January showing how quickly prices can change. Despite this, they are still around the same as they were in August.
A combination of events has driven prices higher in January
We’ve seen a cold start to January, which, as well as robust oil demand, has driven prices up. This coincided with increased U.S. sanctions against Russia raising fears of tighter oil supplies. Together these factors have increased heating oil prices here in the UK. Prices have been favourable so far this winter and although on the rise, we’re still seeing August prices, so it is worthwhile getting a quote now if you need a refill.
Here’s our latest tips and recommendations:
• Keep a check on your tank level: The cold start to January may mean your tank level has burned down more than you might expect. Keep a check with a dip read. If you have a service like BoilerJuice Connected, you’ll be able to track your tank level on a mobile app.
• Keep an eye on prices: prices can move quickly in either direction and they can differ regionally in the UK based on local supply and demand. Search for price charts and get price alert emails from places like BoilerJuice to stay in the know.
• Spread the cost: You might review your home finances in January so it’s good to know you can break up your heating payments. Services like BoilerJuice Connected can help, by allowing you to build a pot monthly.
For more detailed information and to explore our services, visit BoilerJuice.com.
Proudly sponsored by BoilerJuice in association with The Village Bystander.
Gardening and Outdoor Section: p.22-24
Lee’s Gardening Corner
We are now on the shortest month, dark days should be getting noticeably longer and spring is just a month away. So much in the garden is on the move.
February is a peak month for snowdrops, they are an important early source of nectar for bees, and if you dare pick a few for indoors will look and smell lovely. Snowdrops thrive in a bit of shade and look wonderful coming up through cyclamen (either the leaves of autumn cyclamen or blending with the flowers of spring cyclamen).
This is also the month for winter crocuses: Crocus tommasinianus, C. flavus, C. siberi and C. chrysanthus. They all adapt well to life in turf and most of them self sow to provide a carpet of colour in the lawn, opening on sunny day. Crocuses come in shades of purple, cream and yellow, so you can choose to have all one colour or a mass of mixed.
Now is the start of the early daffodils, you can get so many different varieties nowadays that there will be some for each month from now to the end of spring, and even different shapes and sizes within the ranges. Either in the garden or brightening the patio in pots they will cheer up the dullest day.
Jobs to do if you are feeling in the need of fresh air include finishing pruning fruit trees; cut autumn flowering raspberries down to the ground; plant trees and shrubs if the weather is mild enough; melt ice on ponds with fish so they can breathe, keep water available for the birds.
Now is the time to start sowing vegetable and annual seeds, under glass, in a propagator or a window sill. If you have somewhere undercover you could start planting spring baskets and pots, but make sure they will be protected from the weather.
Other plants for colour at this time of the year include Hellebores, Mahonia and Bergenia.
Lee Munday
Please
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Providing an end to end service for your kitchen, bedroom or office transformation
Providing an end to end service for the kitchen, bedroom or office transformation
La Cote d’Or Antiques is a small, boutique antiques shop. A genuine treasure trove, it is full of lots of interesting items. The Proprietor, Marie Helene has been in the business for many decades, so if she does not have it, there is a chance she can find it!
Situated on Kimbolton High Street, access is by appointment only, so please call to book ahead: 01480 861587
Sweeping Tom Ltd
Alconbury Weston
Book an end of season sweep –your chimney & liner will benefit from clean drying over the summer.
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service is looking to recruit more on-call firefighters to help serve local communities across the county.
CFRS is looking for men and women from all backgrounds to become on-call firefighters and provide emergency cover from either their home or their workplace.
On-call firefighters are a vital part of our Service and community. They respond to a wide range of incidents, from fighting fires, attending road traffic collisions, animal rescues to supporting other emergency services. In addition to responding to emergency incidents, our on-call firefighters support their communities by providing information and advice on a range of community safety topics.
They receive an annual wage to reflect the time they commit to being available plus additional payments for attending incidents and drill nights (one evening a week for two hours).
It’s a hugely rewarding role, and we hope to encourage members of the community from all backgrounds to get in touch and find out more about becoming an on-call firefighter.
Visit www.cambsfire.gov.uk/oncall for more information.
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Test your smoke alarm!
Did you know that you should test your smoke alarms at least once a month? Or that you should have smoke alarms on every floor of your home? Or that Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service do free home visits to make sure your home is fire safe?
Visit this website for helpful tips and advice: https://firekills.campaign.gov.uk/
It only takes one accident to start a fire. Fire kills. Let’s prevent it.
I can’t find my heart
Anita walked down the High Street of the town where she lived. It was Valentine’s Day, and most of the shops were decorated. There were red roses and red hearts everywhere.
The sight of the red hearts brought back two memories Anita had shared with her niece Maisie.
The first memory was of Maisie at eight years old. Anita had always had a lovely relationship with her niece and Maisie would often ask to have a sleepover at her house. At this particular sleepover, Maisie had finished her bath and was all ready for bed, when she rushed to her aunt in panic, tears already starting. ‘Auntie, I can’t find my heart.’ she cried. Just for a moment, Anita couldn’t think what she meant, and then she realised exactly what the problem was. About two years ago, Maisie’s mum had given Maisie a red heart made out of felt. The heart was stuffed like a miniature cushion. Every time Maisie was apart from her mum for whatever reason, her mum told Maisie that she had filled up the heart with her love, so whenever Maisie wanted to, all she had to do was hold the heart and feel her love. That evening, Maisie had gone to get the heart to take it to bed with her, but couldn’t find it. Anita knew exactly where it had been left, and Maisie and the heart were soon reunited.
The second memory had been just two months ago in the lead up to Christmas. Anita had been enjoying a coffee in a café with her now 28-year-old niece. They had reminisced about that evening when Maisie was only eight, and which Maisie could remember very clearly. ‘I think it’s me who can’t find my heart now’, Anita said. Maisie asked her aunt what she meant, and for the first time Anita felt able to share her feelings.
The last few years had been very hard for Anita. She felt as if the universe had conspired against her, and she had battled against so much adversity. She had been caring for elderly parents. She had fought her own illness. She had experienced heartbreaking loss. As a result of facing one thing after another, her mental wellbeing had deteriorated, and she felt as if her heart had closed down. When Anita and her niece parted on that day, Maisie had given her aunt a huge hug. That hug, combined with the chance to talk and offload, meant that Anita had gone home feeling just that tiny bit better, and knowing that she needed to start opening up her heart again. She needed to begin to put nice things back into her life, to connect with other people again, and to find new things to do and enjoy.
Anita walked back home, leaving behind the red flowers and hearts of the High Street, remembering with deep affection both those occasions with her niece - occasions which had happened twenty years apart.
When Anita arrived home, she found a small parcel sitting on her doorstep. Inside, was a red stuffed heart made of felt. A note with it said: ‘I think you need this more than me now. I have filled it up with my love. Hold it close, and you will know that you are never alone. I hope this will help you to open your own heart. Don’t lose it! With much love, Maisie’.
Hazel Wright: hazelwright1801@gmail.com
BEACON WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Your financial future is our priority.
Use it or Lose it: what to do before Tax Year End
By Tony Larkins
As Tax Year End approaches on 5 April 2025, now is the time to review your financial situation and take advantage of available allowances. Here are some points you may want to consider:
Use your ISA to save tax-free
You can add up to £20,000 per tax year into an ISA, tax-free. There are different ISAs available, depending on your goals.
Use Allowances before they expire
Many tax allowances reset each tax year. If you don't use them by 5 April, you lose them. Review allowances such as Capital Gains Tax (CGT), Dividend Tax and Inheritance Tax (IHT) gifting allowance.
Max out Pension Contributions
You can add up to an additional £60,000 to your pension each year tax-free, and unused allowances can be carried forward for up to three years under the carry-forward rule. This not only boosts your retirement savings but also reduces your taxable income. Pensions provide additional benefits, such as tax relief from the government, making them a taxefficient investment.
Beware of the 60% Tax Trap
Earning above £100,000 reduces your Personal Allowance, leading to an effective 60% tax rate on income. Pension contributions can mitigate this by reducing your taxable income and restoring lost allowances.
Plan for CGT and Dividend Tax Changes
Changes introduced in the Autumn Budget have lowered the CGT allowance and Dividend Tax allowance. These reductions could lead to higher tax bills if your investments performed well.
Start Early for the next Tax Year
From 6 April 2025, begin making ISA contributions to benefit from a full year of tax-free growth throughout 2025. Early planning helps maximise your returns – the earlier you start investing in an ISA, the more it could grow tax-free.
The Importance of Year-Round Planning
Tax efficiency isn’t just for the end of the tax year. Maintaining a strategy throughout the year ensures you maximise allowances and minimise liabilities. Seeking expert financial advice from a Chartered Financial Planner could ultimately help you make your money work harder for you.
To speak with our local experts, please call us on 01480 869466 for a free initial, no obligation chat. For more information and useful content, visit www.beaconwm.co.uk.
LOVE Theatre
Due to the wonderful world of print deadlines, I’m writing this on New Year’s Day. The shops are full of Easter Eggs, so we must be close to St Valentine’s Day. How about a look at plays about love?
Since love is an emotion that almost everyone’s experienced at some point there are many, many plays about it. But not that many good ones.
The trouble is, love - in other people - is rather boring. Don’t believe me? Well try spending an evening with a loved-up couple, and see how endearing you find them after the initial “ahh, isn’t that sweet?” phase has passed. The aptly-named Valentine, from The Two Gentlemen of Verona, spends a fair amount of the play rhapsodising about how wonderful it is to be in love, and as such is a crashing bore, as well as being one of Shakespere’s stupidest characters.
Interesting diversion, I was recently on a tour of Broadway (yes, get me), when a passer-by interrupted the tour guide to claim that the luckiest Shakespeare play was Love’s Labour’s Lost. Which makes you wonder why it isn’t performed more often. The tour guide was an unemployed actor. Or “actor”, as they’re also known.
Even worse are the lovesick. Often sporting long Russian names, they will mooch about the stage, eulogising over the lady of the house and turning every conversation into a monologue concerning their inner torment, before shooting themselves several long hours later. Now what effect is this going to have on the audience? Those happily in love, and those happily single will find this person staggeringly dull, while those unhappy in love will feel not comradeship, but intensely-magnified self-pity. Like all arts, theatre attracts its fair share of the lovelorn, the objects of their affections married or otherwise attached, or most crushing of all simply not interested in me. I mean them.
Romeo and Juliet is often cited as a great romantic play, generally by those who haven’t seen it. Any mention of it is guaranteed to engender two tiresome observations from the local bore, firstly that it’s “Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou”, not ‘where are’. Secondly the bore, obviously an authority on this sort of thing, will inform you that Juliet is only 13 years old. Remarkably the play hasn’t been cancelled. Yet.
As I said at the start of this lecture, love is a feeling that most people, apart from the genuinely psychopathic (of whom there are a shocking number around) have experienced. But for some reason, it doesn’t translate well to plays. Mind you, everyone’s had a headache at some point, and nobody’s rushing to put that on stage.
By the way, a rather less wholesome sort of love can be seen in the production of Oedipus at Wyndham’s Theatre. Which I’d really, really recommend seeing. But by the time you read this, it will have finished. You snooze, you lose. Happy Valentine’s Day.
https://eugenesmithwriting.com/
Tel: 07480 166533
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Auction Sales & Valuations
Valuation, collection and auction of individual items, through to complete property and commercial clearances.
Friday, Saturday & Monday between 8.30am and 5pm
Claire - Sonar Engagement
Budgens is all about food. Early morning deliveries, 6 days a week, ensure lots of fresh produce.
Everything is here to create delicious meals from scratch. We also have a great variety of prepared meals.
A wide range of Wines, Beers, Ciders, and Spirits will complement your meal.
We have a Bakery plus Costa Coffee, Fresh Sandwiches & Frozen Foods.
We’re just round the corner. Open long hours, 7 days a week, with car parking.
Recipe: Leek, Onion and Potato Soup
Ingredients:
4 large leeks
1 medium onion, chopped small
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
50g butter
850ml vegetable stock
275 ml milk
Method:
salt and freshly milled black pepper
To serve:
2 tablespoons cream or crème fraiche
1 1/2 tablespoons snipped fresh chives or chopped fresh parsley
Trim the leeks, discarding the tough outer layer.
Split them in half lengthways and slice them quite finely, then wash them thoroughly in two or three changes of water. Drain well.
Gently melt the butter in a large, thick-based saucepan, then add the leeks, onions and potatoes, stirring them all round with a wooden spoon so they get a nice coating of butter.
Season with salt and pepper, then cover and let the vegetables sweat over a very low heat for about 15 minutes.
Add the stock and milk, bring to simmering point, cover and let the soup simmer very gently for a further 20 minutes or until the vegetables are soft – if you have the heat too high the milk in it may cause it to boil over.
Leave it to cool
Put the whole lot into a blender and blend to a purée. If you have to blend the soup in batches, make sure you have a bowl to hand to put the first batch into.
Return the soup to the saucepan and reheat gently, tasting to check the seasoning.
Add a swirl of cream or crème fraîche before serving and sprinkle with freshly snipped chives or parsley.
Did you make any New Year resolutions, or goals for 2025? Do you plan to do more exercise, or travel? Perhaps this is the year in which you are finally going to finish that memoir or novel? I saw this image on Facebook recently and I agree, it is amazing.
Hugh Howey, probably the first independent author to find massive success, mentioned once how many people have said to him, “Oh, I’ve got an idea. How about you write it and we can split the money?” It makes him laugh because ideas are nothing, while execution is everything. All writers have a lot of ideas. Ideas are never the issue but writing it all out requires an effort that strains even the most prolific of writers.
It's no surprise writers become stuck at some point trying to reach the end. It’s happened to me. I have half-finished books on my laptop that I’ve told gently I’ll get back to, sometime. And I will, because I’d hate to die and not have published all I can.
So what is stopping you from finishing yours? Time? Plot difficulties? Fear? I think I’ll try to cover each of these topics in the following articles because there are so many things that can get in the way of finally getting to type those words – The End.
Meanwhile, I’ve published books. I have a new one coming out in a couple of months – see the banner for the addition to my catalogue. I know what it takes. I know what’s needed. Both with getting those words onto the page, and launching the book out into the world. If I can be of any help please do contact me (details below) and I’m happy to have a chat about your project. Likewise, if there’s a reason you haven’t finished your book that I haven’t listed above, email me and let me know and I’ll try to cover it.
Georgia Rose is my pen name and the name I use for everything connected to my writing. You can find me at georgia@georgiarosebooks.com or via www.georgiarosebooks.com.
PURPLE HORIZONS
A community initiative making a difference
Purple Horizons was launched in September 2019 by five local mums sitting around a table with a cup of coffee, with the aim of raising money and awareness of causes close to our hearts.
Our vision was to create something that is not only engaging and enjoyable but also enlightening, something to “broaden our horizons” and at the same time “make a difference”. Purple Horizons was set up to organise events that raise money for local charities and increase awareness of the important work these organisations do. Since our launch we are proud to have raise £44,000 for local charities including Papworth Trust, Addenbrookes Charitable Trust (specifically for the Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital) and Rise Africa UK.
Each of our events offer something unique and cater to a wide audience. From art to politics to sport, literature, history to health and wellness, our events cover a diverse range of topics. We also host themed gatherings such charity balls, lunches (including our annual Christmas lunch) and sporting events, as well as hands-on creative workshops like our wreath-making for the festive season. Whether its wine-tasting or learning something new, we truly offer something for everyone.
We have certainly had some fascinating talks, from learning that China genuinely seeks stronger ties with the West, to discovering the diplomatic delicacy of eating sheep’s brains without offending your diplomatic host and pondering why there isn’t a collective noun for English sparkling wine akin to cava, prosecco and crémant.
We are always eager to welcome guest speakers with an interesting story or insights to share and would welcome anyone interested in addressing to our members to get in touch.
Check out our website for details of how to become a member - its free!
Follow us on social media and find further details about previous and upcoming events!
Graphic design by EmiliaFrostDesign
Paul Kinally of Peter Lane & Partners in Kimbolton ignores the New Year crystal ball and looks instead at what is actually happening to the property market at the moment.
Hygge – pronounced hue-gah - is a Danish word. It isn’t easy to translate into English, but to Danes the word means a cosiness and comfortable conviviality that brings on a deep feeling of contentment. You can have hygge with family, with friends or just by being at home.
As there isn’t too much hygge in the wider world at present, people have increasingly come to prize the well-being their home gives them as much if not more than the monetary value of their property.
Why is this? Buyers and sellers tell us every day that in this uncertain world owning their property gives them an unmatched security blanket. Let’s face it, most of us often prefer to be in our small, secure and comfortable world for a while, rather than the more uncertain outside one.
The past few years have been a period of extreme, even historic economic, political and financial disruption. Yet the property market has prevailed because of a need that pays no heed to economics, politics or mortgage fix: the market remains strong despite all the turbulence because most people still want to live under their own roof.
We should like to wish all our friends, neighbours, buyers, sellers and future clients the happiest and healthiest New Year, and if 2025 is going to be the year you make a move we are here for you and with you all the way. Do call us - we can’t wait to spread the hygge.
If you are thinking of moving and would like to discuss any aspect of the process, Paul can be contacted at the Kimbolton Office on 01480 860400 or paul.kinally@peterlane.co.uk
Just for Kids
Childcare for 2–11 year olds
A wonderful charity run setting based in the beautiful village of Spaldwick, and led by a fantastic team, we are pleased to offer:
• 2 to 4 years old: pre-school childcare during term time between 9am to 3pm (lunch available; pre / after school care and holiday time covered by the clubs below). Eligible Government funded places available. Each session is planned and includes play activities that help progress the children’s learning and development in the areas covered by the Early Years Foundation Stage framework.
• 2 to 11 years old: breakfast and after school care (S-Club) for the morning (8am to 9am) and afternoon (3pm to 6pm) for those attending Playtimes Pre-school and Spaldwick Primary School.
We offer a relaxed and calm environment where children can enjoy breakfast; and a hot tea in the afternoon. We encourage stimulating but relaxed activities to prepare children for / help them unwind from their school day.
• 2 to 11 years old: holiday club for all (available for all children, they do not need to attend Playtimes
Pre-school or Spaldwick Primary School) between 9am to 5pm (lunch and hot tea available; breakfast and afternoon snack included).
We provide indoor and outdoor activities (children are encouraged to play outside wherever possible), including baking, arty crafts, nature walks, bug hunts, seasonal parties, and much more.
For more information, please contact: Email playtimesoffice@gmail.com or call 01480 890077 to book a place. Hours: Mon – Fri: 8am–6pm Playtimes, Ferriman Road, Spaldwick, Huntingdon, PE28 0TQ Charity No. 1032297
The Rom-Com is…dead good? Long live romance
Mention of Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks together will no doubt cast your memory back to SleeplessinSeattle (1993) and You’ve Got Mail (1998). Remembering these films with some nostalgia, I watched the former recently as it was on a well-known streaming service. (Note: the only one I have, and it comes with shopping advantages, otherwise I’d cancel it. I still like DVDs, and believe it or not, I’m a millennial.) I wondered if it was as good as I’d remembered it being. Watching it and surrendering to the romantic notion intended was proving a bit of a struggle. My Meg Ryan and Nora Ephron romance allegiance remains firmly with WhenHarryMetSally. (Sorry, Hanks, but WHMS is just too quotable.)
I’m still a sucker for a cute rom-com and will always enjoy them. I can safely say that any recently acquired reservations about these global hits are as a result of insistence on internet safety and various horror stories about internet dating-turned gory murder. (Cue the fella from Baby Reindeer yelling at Tom Hanks to not meet Meg Ryan at the top of the Empire State Building on Valentine’s Day.) The same reservations would probably slightly hinder my enjoyment of rewatching You’ve Got Mail now too. Not to mention facing my own glaring hypocrisy when feeling enraged at the big business tycoon putting a little family-owned bookshop out of business.
Perhaps a degree of my cynicism around rom-coms stems from the withdrawal of their presence in Hollywood. Cinemas just don’t seem to show as many. The 80s and 90s were full of them and yet now they don’t draw as many viewers. The last rom-com I saw at the cinema was NoHardFeelings, which did more or less tank at the Box Office. But there’s also more of a focus on other genres such as action, drama, science fiction and horror. Or a mixture of comedy and horror. (See: Renfield.)
Although the film industry’s recent attempts at rom-coms haven’t drawn me in as much as previously, I am admittedly hooked on the ‘feel-good’ murder/crime-solving series such as CSI,BonesandRizzoliandIsles. Characters (and romances) that are gradually revealed over more than 90 minutes of viewing time – a slow burner if you will. Also explains why WhenHarryMetSally is a favourite – the storyline covers over a decade of the leads’ lives and the writing is *chef’s kiss* wonderful. Ephron’s writing remains timeless. Aaron Sorkin too deserves a mention for sublime writing, incorporating rom-com with some political satire and drama and real-world events. Especially the masterpiece that is The Newsroom. Likewise, the seeds for the characters are sewn in the first episode and are neatly wrapped up by the end of the third and final series, but not without a hell of a rollercoaster in between.
It's a fine skill to be able to hark back to another’s work without completely ripping it off. Sorkin’s The Newsroom does this superbly with Don Quixote, as does Nora Ephron’s When HarryMetSally with Casablanca. “I’ll have what she’s having…” But with a sprinkle of originality.
Sally Gower
Bystander Community
HAIL WESTON WILDLIFE AND GARDENING GROUP
Tuesday 4th February
Mike Johnson will talk on how he built a garden for ‘Hampton Court Garden Show.’ 7:30pm Hail Weston Village Hall
Light refreshments will be available Coffee/Tea/Wine for a donation and there will be a Raffle (4-6 prizes) including a garden centre voucher (£20) Non-members are very welcome, entrance fee is £3.00 - members £1.00 further information contact: tel_maggs2@225771mgl.co.uk
KEYSOE VILLAGE HALL
BIG BREAKFAST FEBRUARY 15TH MARCH 15TH 9am - 11am Full English - £7.50
Small English - £4.50
Tea & coffee included No need to Book JUST TURN UP
St Andrew’s Renovation Project
SECRETS OF THE CHURCH
THE PEOPLE WHO MADE STAUGHTON GREAT
A journey across eight centuries of England’s history as we explore the architecture of the historic church of St Andrew and tell the stories behind the monuments, memorials, brasses and tablets of this wonderful building.
The tour will be guided by Anthony Withers, author of Great Staughton and its People
Venue: St Andrew’s church Great Staughton PE19 5BB
Dates for 2025: January 11, February 15 and March 15 all at 11.00am
The price of the tour is £6 which includes refreshments
Book and pay on line here indicating the date(s) you prefer. or scan the QR code
Or just Email Anthony Withers at aw.staughton@gmail.com with your preferred date and pay at the door.
Visit our web page to find out more www.swhw.co.uk
What’s on in Kimbolton in February
Saturday 1st 6-8pm Pop Up Wine Bar. Whitchurch Wines
Sunday 2nd 3pm Kim Jam. New Sun Inn
Monday 3rd
10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall 10-12pm Fitness Class. Mandeville Hall
2.30pm WI. Mandeville Hall
6-7.30pm Cubs. Scout Hut
Tuesday 4th 9-11am Baby & Toddler Group. Youth & Community Hall 4.15 - 5.15pm Rainbows. Scout Hut 5.30 - 6.45pm Brownies. Scout Hut 7.30pm Bingo. Mandeville Hall
Wednesday 5th 10-12pm Bridge Club. Mandeville Hall 2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall 7.30-9.30pm Unleash Yoga Flow. Mandeville Hall
Thursday 6th 12pm Senior Lunch Club 2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall 4.30-5.45pm Beavers. Scout Hut
Friday 7th
8pm Quiz Night. New Sun Inn
10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall
Monday 10th 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall 10-12pm Fitness Class. Mandeville Hall 6-7.30pm Cubs. Scout Hut
Tuesday 11th 9-11am Baby & Toddler Group. Youth & Community Hall 4.15 - 5.15pm Rainbows. Scout Hut 5.30 - 6.45pm Brownies. Scout Hut
Wednesday 12th 10-12pm Bridge Club. Mandeville Hall 2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall 7.30-9.30pm Unleash Yoga Flow. Mandeville Hall
Thursday 13th
12pm Senior Lunch Club
2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall 4.30-5.45pm Beavers. Scout Hut
Friday 14th 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall Valentines Day Dining. New Sun Inn
Saturday 15th 4pm Country Afternoon with Mark Jackson. New Sun Inn 6-8pm Pop Up Wine Bar. Whitchurch Wines
Monday 17th 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall 10-12pm Fitness Class. Mandeville Hall 6-7.30pm Cubs. Scout Hut
Tuesday 18th 9-11am Baby & Toddler Group. Youth & Community Hall
4.15 - 5.15pm Rainbows. Scout Hut 5.30 - 6.45pm Brownies. Scout Hut
Wednesday 19th 10-12pm Bridge Club. Mandeville Hall 7.30-9.30pm Unleash Yoga Flow. Mandeville Hall
Thursday 20th
Friday 21st 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall
Monday 24th
12pm Senior Lunch Club 2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall 4.30-5.45pm Beavers. Scout Hut
7pm Parish Council Meeting. Youth & Community Hall 8pm Quiz Night. New Sun Inn
10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall 10-12pm Fitness Class. Mandeville Hall 6-7.30pm Cubs. Scout Hut
Tuesday 25th 9-11am Baby & Toddler Group. Youth & Community Hall
4.15 - 5.15pm Rainbows. Scout Hut 5.30 - 6.45pm Brownies. Scout Hut
Wednesday 26th 10-12pm Bridge Club. Mandeville Hall 7.30-9.30pm Unleash Yoga Flow. Mandeville Hall
Thursday 27th
Friday 28th 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall
12pm Senior Lunch Club
2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall 4.30-5.45pm Beavers. Scout Hut
All 10.30am services can be accessed via Zoom: ID 418 4055 563 Passcode: 022067
Morning & Evening Prayer are held on Zoom at 8.30am & 5.30pm respectively on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. Monday 5.30pm only.
Join us at St. Andrew’s church on Friday for an informal bit of fun with your toddlers and pre-schoolers, along with refreshments and chat for the adults. 9.00am - 10.30am during the school term
ALL SAINTS, LITTLE STAUGHTON
Sun 2nd: 9.00am Parish Communion
Sun 16th: 9.00am Parish Communion
Sun 23rd: 4.00pm Benefice Evensong
ST. ANDREW’S, GREAT STAUGHTON
Sun 2nd: 8.00am BCP Holy Communion 10.30am All Age Worship
Sun 9th: 10.30am Parish Communion
Sun 16th: 10.30am Parish Communion
Sun 23rd: 10.30am Parish Communion 4.00pm Benefice Evensong
ST. NICOLAS, HAIL WESTON
Sun 2nd: 10.30am Morning Praise
Sun 9th: 9.00am Parish Communion
Sun 16th: 3.00pm Creative Communion
Sun 23rd: 9.00am Parish Communion
John Barker - St Andrews Church Great Staughton
You don’t tend to hear many James Bond themes in church, but on a brisk November evening that’s what happened at St Andrew’s in Great Staughton. Playing For Your Eyes Only was trumpeter John Barker, a Derbyshire-based musician who performs all over the country.
John played a pleasingly mixed programme of popular tunes, film themes and light classical pieces, the sort of music that Radio 2 used to play when it had a purpose, as opposed to whatever it is these days. Speaking of which, John told the story of how he made his radio breakthrough. The producer of Good Morning Sunday heard a busking John playing Schubert’s Ave Maria. The producer stopped for a chat, bought some albums (see website link below) and ended up playing John’s tracks on air.
John interspersed his repertoire with stories about the music and himself, providing a fully entertaining evening which some musicians find so hard to do (and yes Van Morrison, I’m looking at you). As well as his trumpet, he played some numbers on the cornet, which is a smaller, stubbier type of trumpet. Sadly he hadn’t brought his flugelhorn, which is an elongated mellower instrument, the brass equivalent of the viola in so many ways. His backing instrumentals were also performed by him via pre-recorded keyboards.
Speaking of keyboards, the first half ended with two pieces performed by local pianist Kier Fowke. Kier had recently achieved distinction at Grade Eight, for those not in the know this translates as “very, very good”. That he played from memory was almost as impressive as his virtuosic performance.
I’d strongly recommend you look out for similar local concerts. Professional entertainment, and close to home. Well worth trumpeting about!
https://www.johnbarkertrumpet.com/
Canine Corner - Territorial Behaviour
Territorial behaviour is considered normal in dogs, although the degree of territorial behaviour is highly variable across the species. It is thought that one of the reasons humans first allowed dogs to cohabit with them was that dogs alerted them to the sound of anyone or anything approaching the camp. Over thousands of years we have actively selected for territorial traits in our dogs, from Tibetan Terriers alerting monks to strangers approaching the monastery to bullmastiffs guarding farms and estates from poachers. Even dogs that were not specifically bred for territorial traits- such as gundog breeds- will show some degree of territorial behaviour. Some dogs will bark at strangers approaching the property but are friendly when they enter. Other dogs will bark at strangers approaching the property and will continue barking at them once they are inside. Dogs like this may choose to run and hide when the stranger comes into the house, however some dogs will try to bite the stranger when they enter the property. There are a small number of dogs who are silently territorial- they do not bark or give any signal that they are not happy until the stranger is inside the property. This is more typical of some of the mastiffs, Akitas and livestock guarding breeds and it is really important that owners of these breeds have a very good understanding of their dogs.
Just because a behaviour is natural does not mean we should allow it to go unchecked. We all know a local dog who lies by the garden gate all day, or on the back of the sofa staring out of the window, lying in wait for people to walk past so that he can use the full force of his ferocious bark. Every time the dog barks at someone outside the house, that person walks away (they were leaving anyway but the dog doesn’t know that) and the dog feels that he has succeeded in preventing that person entering his territory. This behaviour is highly rewarding and due to the rush of dopamine the dog gets when his strategy works, highly addictive. Dogs who are allowed to ‘guard’ the house or garden for long periods can become chronically stressed due to elevated levels of adrenalin and other stress hormones. This can have knock-on effects in other areasfor example they can become more reactive to other dogs or people out on walks. It can also prevent them from resting properly as they lose the ability to switch off and relax.
So if your dog is showing problematic territorial behaviour, what should you do?
• Don’t allow your dog to bark for long periods. A couple of barks in the garden is normal, but call your dog inside if they continue to bark.
• Don’t allow your dog to watch the road or path outside your house. Ensure ‘spyholes’ in gates are blocked up, prevent access to front windows or use privacy film on the lower half.
• Never allow your dog to meet visitors at the front door. Shut him in another room before you open the door to guests.
• Make sure your gates are locked so that delivery people cannot enter your garden when your dog is outside. Use outside letter boxes and parcel boxes.
• If you are in any doubt as to your dog’s ability to cope with visitors to your house, safety is always the priority and you should keep him behind a secure door or in his crate. Dogs who are highly territorial are often quite insecure and the behaviour is usually the result of anxiety. Contact an ABTC Registered Clinical Animal Behaviourist for advice.
36 Cromwell House, High Street, Kimbolton, Huntingdon, PE28 0HA
Take Charge and Be Safe
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service has seen an increase in fires involving lithium-ion batteries over the last few years.
Many devices contain lithium-ion batteries. Mobile phones, laptops and games console controllers have these batteries, but so do cordless tools, garden machinery plus e-bikes and e-scooters. These batteries can heat up and cause a fire if not used correctly.
You can Take Charge and Be Safe by following a few simple tips:
• Charge batteries when you are awake and alert
• Only use the battery, charger and cables supplied by the manufacturer
• Before you go to bed, check anything still charging is switched off
• Do not overload sockets
• Do not charge e-bikes and e-scooters in escape routes.
Batteries can be a fire hazard if they are not disposed of properly. They should never be put in household rubbish or recycling bins.
During the processing of waste or recycling, a battery can be compacted and damaged, which can lead to ignition of the highly reactive lithium, leading to a fire starting.
Any kind of battery can cause a fire if not disposed of correctly and safely. This includes vapes or other e-cigarettes as well as standard batteries.
Fires involving batteries cause damage to refuse vehicles and roads, as well as significant delays to bin collections and road closures.
How to dispose of batteries
There are many places to safely dispose of batteries. As well as local recycling centres, many shops around the county have collection bins in-store.
To find your nearest battery collection bin, visit either https://www.recyclenow.com or https:// www.recycleyourelectricals.org.uk to check where your closest location is.
Help keep your home and family fire safe – complete our online home safety check
You can carry out your own home fire safety check online by visiting the Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service website.
The online home safety check helps you carry out your own fire risk assessment and is a simple way to help reduce risks and keep your home safe from fire. It takes you through some simple questions about you and your home, then provides an action plan that you can download and print. You can fill it in for yourself or a member of your family that might need help.
Visit https://bit.ly/Home_Safety_Check to find out more and start your online home safety check.
For a quick quote contact Rai today via WhatsApp. (Send images with a brief job description)
Tilbrook Village Hall for Hire!
Looking for the perfect venue for your next event? Look no further than Tilbrook Village Hall! Recently refurbished, our spacious hall is ideal for parties, regular classes, meetings, and more. Features:
• Generous-sized hall
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Modern toilet facilities
• Ample car park at the rear
• AV facilities for presentations and entertainment
Location:
Situated on Church Lane in the quaint village of Tilbrook, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE28 0JT Our rates are very reasonable and will be provided upon enquiry.
Contact us today to book your event!
Erica Jago - bookings.tilbrookvillage@gmail.com Make your next event a memorable one at Tilbrook Village Hall!
Children's Activities
Grafham Little Fishes, Stay and Play Session for 0 to 4year olds
All welcome on Wednesdays 10.00 to 11.20, term time only, in Grafham Village Hall. Just turn up for free play time, followed by a short bible story, action songs and simple craft. For more details, contact Jane Rowley 01480 890986 littlefishes@eastleightonstone.com
Family Fun Friday St Andrew's Church, Great Staughton, 9.00am - 10.30am term time only. Tea, coffee, playtime, story time, singing. Contact Sylvia - 01480 812022 for more details. St Neots Toy Library - Mon to Thurs 8.45am - 4.30pm, Fridays 8.45am-1.00pm. At The Butterfly Children’s Centre, next to Winhills School and The Eatons Children’s Centre next to Bushmead School. Telephone Lyanne 01480 358350/Jaci 01480 358340. Rhyme time - rhymes and stories for babies and toddlers aged 0 - 2 years. St Neots library. 2 sessions 10am & 11.15am term time only on alternate Fridays
Baby Gym classes
Promoting tummy time, sensory stimulation and adult two baby bonding. Classes operate term time only, Friday mornings : 10.30am - 11.15am, Open sessions, no booking required., £5 per session, pay as you go (Cash only)., Operates at Huntingdon Gymnastic Club, Mayfield Road, Huntingdon, PE29 1UL, Run by Beccy Chapman Bsc WAHpc, Like Us on Facebook to keep updated, search: ‘baby gym 8-weeks to walking’ Riseley All Saints Church Junior Jivers - music and movement session followed by stay and play every Thursday at 930am term time only - Contact: Samantha Toseland Tel: 07880 700894
Young People’s and Children’s Organisations Guides, Brownies and Rainbows
Kimbolton Guides, Brownies & Rainbows Esther Crook on 07713 165935 esthercrook1@gmail.com Gt Staughton Guides Lindy Bornman, email fgsguides@gmail.com Upper Dean Brownies & Rainbows, Karen Jones: email: div.nbeds@bedsguiding.org.uk Little Staughton Guides, Little Staughton Brownies Scouts, Cubs, Beavers
1st Kimbolton Scout Group, Contact: Emma Mumford 07881 621260 1st Brington Scout Group, Contact: Tim Collins - 07881 821649 Dance/Performing Arts
Linda Allen School of Dance – Ballet, tap and modern jazz from 3+ years - Spaldwick and Kimbolton Ladies ballet and tap in Kimbolton, 01480 861332, info@LindaAllenDance.com, www.lindaallendance.com Stageworks Studios, St Neots. Dance, drama and singing classes for ages 3+. 01480 223331 Motion Dance Academy, Hinchinginbrooke Shcool, Huntingdon - 07887 932294, Miss Mollie www.motiondanceacademy.co.uk missmollie@motiondanceacademy.co.uk
Nurseries, Playgroups, Pre-Schools & Kids Clubs
Crosshall Nursery School 01480 475980
Crosshall Kids Club 01480 219518 Inn Farm Priv. Day Nursery 07802 826798 www.innfarmdaynursery.co.uk
Keysoe Playgroup – Keysoe Village Hall, MK44 2JE, Thursdays 9.30-11.30, £2 per family, healthy snacks, hot drinks, biscuits and craft activity included. Lovely friendly group with lots of toys for your little ones. Come and join us. Term time only.
Village Hall, Yelden 07539 662544, yeldenvillagehall@gmail.com Spaldwick Community Room
Sarah Cardwell - clerk@spaldwickparishcouncil.org.uk
Grafham Nature Reserve & Watch Group The Wildlife Trust 01480 811075
North Beds Young Farmers’ northbedsyfcmembership@gmail.com FB: North Beds Young Farmers Instagram: @northbedsyfc Twitter: @northbedsyfc
Grafham Water Sailing Club 01480 810478
Wildlife Trust Brampton Wood
George Cottam Volunteer Warden, 01480 450809; Wildlife Trust Huntingdonshire Local Group Pat Doody Chair, 01480 392706. Eve talks Brampton Memorial Centre 7.30pm, 2nd Wednesday Sept - March. Guided walks in the summer. Grafham Wildlife & Conservation Group Sam Malt 01480810844 day/01480811654 eve
Village Sports
Badminton Club (Kimbolton)
Catworth Playing Field
Shirley Osborne 860198/Jill Strand 861508
Mary Matthews, 07717 246107 Cricket Club, Kimbolton
Mark Field, 07769 159496 Cricket Club, Little Staughton
Carpet Bowls, Catworth
Carpet Bowls, Kimbolton
Carpet Bowls, Gt. Staughton
Adrian Thrasher 07834 602086
Marge Baker, 01832 710145
Mary Foster, 01480 861594
Anthony Withers, 01480 861224. Carpet Bowls, Spaldwick
Carpet Bowls, Ellington
Table Tennis Club - Melchbourne
Andrew Vickers, 01480 891201
Janet Stewart 01480 533482 janetstewart725@gmail.com
Peter Wilkinson peteathillands@gmail.com, 07792 056 157 Tennis Club, Kimbolton
Yoga Classes, Little Staughton, Hail Weston, Linda Tongue 01480 350345, Brampton, Catworth & Godmanchester 07733343702, lindatongue@yahoo.co.uk
Mobile Library Service 0345 045 5225 for enquiries / renewals
2nd Wednesday of the Month (R. H10) - 11th February
Diddington : Manor Farm 9.30am to 9.50am
Southoe : The Church 10.05am to 10.25am
Spaldwick : High Street 10.45am to 11.05am
Stow Longa : The Green 11.15am to 11.45am
Catworth : Station Road Midday to 12.30pm
Covington : Cross Street 1.45pm to 2.15pm
Kimbolton : Stow Road (Newtown) 2.30pm to 3.45pm
Kimbolton : Castle Gardens 3.50pm to 4.30pm
4th Tuesday of the Month (R. H23) - 25th February
Bythorn : School Lane 10.00am to 10.20am
Molesworth : Phone Box 10.25am to 11.00am
Brington : Church Lane 11.10am to 11.35am
Old Weston : Village Hall 11.45am to 12.20pm
Leighton Bromswold : The Avenue 12.30pm to 1.00pm
4th Wednesday of the Month (R. H24) - 26th February
Ellington : Mermaid Pub
9.30 to 10.00am
Grafham : Breach Road 10.10am to 10.35am
Perry : Chichester Way 10.45am to 11.40am
Hail Weston : Orchard Close 12.00pm to 12.20pm
Great Staughton : The Causeway 1.30pm to 2.00pm
Kimbolton : Stow Road (Newtown) 2.15pm to 3.45pm
Kimbolton : Castle Gardens 3.50pm to 4.30pm
Cambridgeshire Libraries’ Doorstep Service is a free home library service delivered monthly by volunteers to readers with health or mobility difficulties. To find out more about becoming a local volunteer or service user:
Disclaimer: Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material in this publication, the publisher/editor can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors in either editorial or advertising content.
mention Village Bystander when responding to adverts
70 To advertise in Village Bystander please call Julie on 07928 778457
JANUARY OFFERS
AT THE WHEATSHEAF, WEST PERRY
WINE LOVERS, REJOICE!
Enjoy our exclusive wine offer - bottles of White, Red, or Rosé for just £9.99, and Prosecco for only £12.99! Perfect for unwinding with friends or adding a special touch to your meal.
SAVE ON YOUR NEXT VISIT!
Sign up for our email newsletter and receive 25% off your food bill in January! Stay updated on our latest promotions and treats while saving big! To sign up, look for the posters in the pub or scan the QR code below to visit our website. Join us and make every visit memorable.
Scan the QR code to find out more!
• Well-Positioned Detached Family Residence.
• Offering over 2,300 Square Feet of Accommodation for the Discerning Buyer.
• Three Reception Rooms offering Exceptional Space for Entertaining and Homeworking.
• Impressive 21 FT. Kitchen with Breakfast Nook.
• Excellent Garden Room Overlooking Generous South Facing Garden.
• Four Comfortable Bedrooms, all with Wardrobes.
• Principal Bedroom with Walk-in Wardrobe and En Suite.
• Guest Cloakroom and Practical Laundry Room/Utility.
• Double Garage and Additional Parking.
• Convenient for Local Facilities and Major Road and Rail Links.
