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Letter from the Editor:

Well, February has rolled in and with it comes a gentle nudge that time’s ticking away towards the end of the tax year. Beacon Wealth Management reminds us that those months before April seem to fly by, so it’s wise to plan ahead and make the most of your annual allowances before 5th April sneaks up on you.

Thinking of moving home in 2026? Paul Kinally at Peter Lane & Partners in Kimbolton shares some brilliant thoughts on how to get yourself ‘under starter’s orders’ for a successful move. There’s plenty to consider, so don’t leave it too late to get your ducks in a row.

On a literary note, Penny Young dives into My Cousin Rachel, not just as a classic tale, but because of its possible ties to her own Cornish family.

Film fans won’t want to miss Ross Richardson’s latest adventure through the Carry On series, this time focusing on Carry On Regardless. If you’re in need of a chuckle, you know where to turn.

And for the little ones, Inn Farm Nursery explores the joys of bird watching with children, sparking a lifelong appreciation for nature.

Whatever’s on your agenda this February, I hope you find something in these pages to inspire, inform or simply entertain.

Happy Reading!

Julie

Mobile: 07928 778457

julie@villagebystander.com

This Month’s Contributors:

Lee Munday, Paul Kinally, Penny Young, Tony Larkins, Joanne Cox, Georgia Rose, Hazel Wright, Eugene Smith, Sally Gower, Ross Richardson, Sam Venn

February Contents

Editor’s Letter

P.4

Health, Fitness, Beauty & Wellbeing p.6-10

Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue p.12 & 80

Inn Farm - Bird Watching Together p.14

Penny Young - “My Cousin Rachel” p.16-17

Gardening & Outdoor Section p.22-25

Lee’s Gardening Corner p.22

Hazel Wright - The Post Box of Love p.32

Beacon Wealth Management - The Months Before April Matter More Than You Think p.33

Eugene Smith - Remake It So p.36

Just for kids! p.38

Georgia Rose - An Englishwoman’s Guide to the Cowboy p.44

Peter Lane and Partners - Under Starter’s Orders p.48

Sally Gower - Febrrrrrruary p.54

Bystander Community p.56-70

The Staughtons with Hail Weston Church Services p.58

Canine Corner - Living With Dogs And Children p.76

Carry on Regardless p.78

From your Cambridge Correspondent p.84-95

What’s On for Children? p.92

Nurseries, Primary & Secondary Schools p.92-93

Useful and Emergency Numbers p.93

Clubs, Groups & Organisations p.94-95

Mobile Library Times p.95

Business Listings p.96

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Open fires and chimneys

Safety Tips

• Have the chimney swept professionally before lighting the first fire of winter

• Don't allow soot or ash to build up

• Inspect your chimney breast, particularly in the roof space. Make sure it is sound and that sparks or fumes can't escape through cracks or broken bricks

• Do not overload the grate or appliance, do not bank fires too high and remember to let them burn down well before you retire to bed

• Check the hearth, floor and furnishings near the fire for hot sparks or embers before you go to bed

• Use a fire or spark guard to prevent accidental fires and make sure it has the kite mark or conforms to a relevant British / European standard

• Do not place objects on or over the mantle-piece which may cause you to stand too close to the fire to reach or use them

• Burn the recommended fuels only - see guidance frequencies below

Regular maintenance requirements of your chimney will depend on the fuel you burn -

Smokeless coals - at least once a year

Wood - up to four times a year

Bituminous coal - twice a year

Oil - once a year

Gas - once a year

Ensure you fit a smoke alarm that has the kite mark and conforms to British Standard 5446 (Part 1). Test the smoke alarm at least once a month by pressing the test button and know the life span of your battery - mark your calendar as a reminder to replace it.

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“My Cousin Rachel”

Penny Young

My sister and I have long been drawn to the book “My Cousin Rachel”, written back in 1951 by Daphne du Maurier. We have watched all the movie and television adaptations of the story, occasionally reminding each other that we had spotted it in the T.V. listings for the coming week. More recently we went to Cambridge to watch the stage show, with Helen George taking the title role of Rachel. Helen is better known as Nurse Trixie Franklin in “Call the Midwife”. Perhaps not a role that one would assume for this blonde bombshell actress, with the cut glass accent, playing the part of the dark and brooding Rachel, but chatting on the way home, we felt that she was a believable heroine and carried the role with poise and aplomb.

Our fascination was not just that the story is a literary classic, but we believed that there was a connection to our Cornish family. The clues were all there, many quite tenuous – our mother’s name was Daphne, her brother’s name – Gerald – the same name as Daphne du Maurier’s father – as you can see – we spent a lot of time clutching at straws!

We were related to the Rashleigh Family, the owners of Menabilly, the house Daphne du Maurier lived in for many years from 1943 until 1969 and the death of her husband, (‘Boy’ Browning, the decorated war hero and post war treasurer to Prince Philip and advisor to the royal couple), and where she wrote “My Cousin Rachel”.

Then, less tenuous, the connection with another main character of the book, none other than Nicholas Kendall of Pelyn. We have six great grandfathers named Nicholas Kendall of Pelyn, from our 2 x gt grandfather (1825-1883) to 3rd (my favourite ancestor), 5th, 7th, 9th, and finally 12th great grandfather, (1511-1583).

I had all these pieces of the jig-saw puzzle, but still could not make them fit, until my daughter surprised me for my birthday, by introducing me to a distant relative in Australia, who had studied the Kendall family line and there, amongst some of her research, was this stunning picture of an original painting of Rachel Carew, and annotated – reputed to be the inspiration for “My Cousin Rachel”.

Aha – getting warmer - we also have Carew’s in our family line – I wrote recently of my nine times great grandfather, Sir Alexander Carew, who had been beheaded on Tower Hill in the aftermath of the English Civil War – well he was Rachel Carew’s grandfather.

I found my excitement rising as I realized that I was getting close to finding the elusive

connection; were we related to Rachel Carew and by association to “My Cousin Rachel”?

Rachel Carew had been born on 9th November 1669. Her mother died when Rachel was just two years of age. Aged 21, Rachel married Ambrose Manaton, a man 19 years her senior. Ambrose was a landowner in Cornwall and a member of parliament, representing, over the years, several Cornish constituencies, but he was known to suffer from periods of ill health. In 1796 Ambrose died aged just 48 and ten years later, Rachel died in St Anne’s parish in Westminster, London when she was only 37. The couple did not have any children.

People died young in those days, and Rachel made her will when still in her early 30’s. Rachel states that whilst she is weak in body, she is of perfect memory and leaves her temporal estate (her earthly estate) as follows. All money, plate and jewels and fifteen hundred pounds to her brother Sir William Carew. One hundred pounds to be spent on a monument to her father and late brother, Sir Richard Carew. To her sister, The Lady Copley, one hundred pounds. She leaves smaller amounts of money, mourning brooches and her ‘wearing apparel’ to her servants, but almost the largest bequest is the sum of four hundred pounds ‘for the relief of the poor prisoners about London’. Wow – a huge sum of money then and not to be sniffed at in today’s values - £83k.

I love this bit – the two executors are Philip Rashleigh of Menabilly House and Canon Kendall of Lanlivery – the latter none other than my seven times great-grandfather, whose gravestone I was recently trying to find in Exeter Cathedral. Sometimes my cup really does overflow.

Was there any truth in Daphne du Maurier’s story of My Cousin Rachel? Had Rachel Carew slowly been poisoning her husband, Ambrose, causing his frequent bouts of ill health?

Was Philip Ashley, the orphan and ward of Ambrose based on Philip Rashleigh? (Ashley/ Rashleigh – hmm!) Was Rachel slowly poisoning him too with her tinctures?

Did Nicholas Kendall ‘see’ right through Rachel and warn Philip?

Did Philip come to his senses and ‘arrange’ for Rachel to have an accident, which lead to her premature death?

Was it all a gothic tale of darkness or was there any truth in the story?

What is true, I finally made the connection – Rachel Carew Manaton is our First Cousin Nine Times Removed.

My sister and I are finally able to say “My Cousin Rachel” is, (or at least is based), on our real cousin Rachel!

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Gardening and Outdoor Section:

Lee’s Gardening Corner

It might be hard to believe, but the days are getting longer, it's the shortest month to get through any more rainy, dark days and spring is just over a month away. So much in the garden is on the move - it's an exciting month.

February is a peak time 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 of one colour or a mass of mixed.

It is also the start of the early narcissus, 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 are a cheerful sight.

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; dig any spare ground so that frost and rain can break it down; melt ice on ponds with fish so they can breathe.

Veg and annual seeds can now be started, 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.

And if you haven't spent January browsing the seed and plant catalogues now is the time to do so. Lee Munday

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The Post Box of Love

As Kate walked to the Post Box on Valentine’s Day, she couldn’t stop herself thinking back to Valentine’s Day the previous year.

Kate and her boyfriend, Tony, had been in Rome – the city of love. They had walked miles around the city, hand in hand, very much in love. They had kissed on the Spanish Steps, thrown a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and Tony had bought her a red rose from one of the many vendors in the streets. It had been magical.

The highlight had been a visit to the Colosseum. Kate had been awe-struck by the sheer size and atmosphere of the amphitheatre, but Tony had seemed preoccupied and distant. Kate soon found out the reason why, as Tony dropped to his knee and pulled from his pocket a beautiful engagement ring. Kate had cried with sheer joy and excitement. They decided to wait a couple of years before getting married, to give themselves time to save for the wedding they wanted.

It was around the beginning of October that Kate started to sense all was not well with their relationship, but when she challenged Tony, he brushed it off, blaming stress at work. In midNovember, when Kate started to make plans for Christmas, Tony told her, in a matter-of-fact way, that they wouldn’t be together for Christmas. Tony had met someone else. Kate was heartbroken, and for her the next couple of months passed in a disbelieving blur. She functioned – nothing more.

Kate’s mum knew that Kate would find Valentine’s Day this year unbearably hard, so she invited her round for dinner the night before, and did her best to wrap her in motherly love. Before Kate went home, her mum asked her if she would post off a birthday card for her. ‘Of course,’ Kate said. ‘I will drop it at the Post Office tomorrow’. ‘No pet,’ her mum replied. ‘Will you take it to the Post Box of Love, please.’ ‘The what???’ Kate asked. Kate’s mum explained that the Post Box which stood on the corner of Luck’s Lane had always been called ‘The Post Box of Love’ as people believed the box received and gave out love.

So, here was Kate walking to the Post Box of Love with her mum’s card. As Kate posted it, she noticed an envelope sitting on top of the box. It had no address or stamp – just the words: ‘ To everyone in need of a hug, take me home and read me.’ Kate looked around her. The street was empty. ‘Well, I need a hug today’, she said out loud and picked up the envelope. When she got home, she pulled a card out of the envelope which read:

Just remember: You are beautiful. You are loved. You are strong. You are worthy of love, respect and kindness. Move forward with hope.

When you have read this, please return me to the Post Box of Love for anyone else who needs a hug.

As Kate returned it, the sun broke through and Kate felt her spirits lift. It was indeed time to move forward with hope.

Hazel Wright: hazelwright1801@gmail.com

BEACON WEALTH MANAGEMENT

The months before April matter more than

by Tony Larkins

As we settle into 2026, with Christmas already feeling like a distant memory, attention is turning to the next major milestone in the financial calendar: the Tax Year End on 5th April. For many, this period arrives faster than expected, and those who prepare early tend to make the most of the remaining opportunities available for the year, like ensuring annual allowances and contributions are not wasted before the deadlines.

Using allowances before they disappear

Several valuable allowances reset each tax year, and many operate on a strict “use it or lose it” basis. The ISA allowance is a good example. As confirmed in the recent Autumn Budget, each adult can currently invest up to £20,000 in an ISA. However, from 6th April 2027, the Cash ISA limit for savers under 65 will reduce from £20,000 to £12,000. If you’re thinking about topping up – or starting an ISA for the first time – now is the ideal moment to get this in place.

Pensions deserve just as much attention. Many people can take advantage of the “carry forward” rules, which can allow you to use any unused pension allowances from the previous three tax years depending on your income. After 5th April, one full year of potential taxefficient saving is lost. If you’re a higher-rate taxpayer, it’s also worth checking that you’ve claimed the extra tax relief you’re entitled to. Surprisingly, this is often overlooked because many assume it happens automatically.

Tax efficient tools like Gifting, VCTs and EIS

I also see people regularly overlook the annual gifting allowances they are entitled to. Some gifts can be carried back a year, but not indefinitely,so families wanting to support children or grandchildren may want to take action sooner rather than later to make the most of available reliefs and create certainty. For clients who are comfortable with higher-risk planning,

Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) and the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) remain powerful taxplanning tools. However, they often require early application due to availability and processing times, so they’re worth reviewing now if suitable. Leaving planning too late can limit options, and place avoidable financial pressure on the next generation.

Capital Gains Tax: A likely talking point

After a strong year of investment performance for many, Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is becoming a more frequent discussion point. With the annual exemption having reduced in recent years, more people may find themselves facing an unnecessary CGT bill.

A timely nudge for the New Year

All of these considerations share one common theme: acting early gives you more choice and greater opportunities. As we head into the New Year, it’s an ideal moment to review your finances before the usual March rush arrives. A simple conversation now could save a great deal of pressure later – and often leads to feeling in control of your finances, creating peace of mind for the year ahead.

Speak with our local experts by calling us on 01480 869466 for a free initial, no obligation chat. For more information and useful content, visit www.beaconwm.co.uk

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Monthly Heating Oil Price Update:

Price Update

The December drop in prices – unusual for the time of year – is now behind us and prices have risen again in January. Not quite at the November peak – though they could go higher.

Why have prices risen sharply recently?

A combination of factors is at play at the time of writing. Renewed geopolitical tension (Iran, Venezuela, Ukraine) all impacting crude oil prices, which have a knock-on impact on kerosene. A spike in demand in early January means busy suppliers and longer delivery windows. And there’s still plenty of time for more cold weather. Households should prioritise ensuring they are stocked up.

Here's our latest tips and recommendations:

• We expect higher prices in winter: although prices have risen in January, it’s still competitive and for perspective, they are still lower than the peak prices seen last winter.

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One of the more frequent complaints about current film and television is that there are too many remakes. The trend for remaking films and shows can either be seen as a charming desire by the producers to recapture the magic that thrilled them as children, or a cynical cash grab which saves having to come up with original ideas. Whichever side you take, there is little value in the “all remakes are rubbish” school of thought. If we’re honest, some beloved films which thrilled the younger versions of us haven’t aged well. If you’re unsure about revisiting childhood favourites, it’s probably safest to leave them as happy memories. Always bear in mind that children are generally very easily amused, and what may have tickled us as teenagers may be somewhat less amusing now. The same applies to films, if something scared you as a child it probably won’t do so now. I remember being terrified for years by a film, so scared that I couldn’t remember its title. I’ve recently found out it was called Death Car on the Freeway, and no way am I going to watch it again. Because it will either be disappointingly tame, or will set off the whole nightmare cycle again.

The films I’ll be examining are mainstream releases. Sadly this means there’s no room for the kings of remakes, the Italian filmmakers of the 70s and 80s. When an American film, say for example Star Wars, became popular the Italian machine would roar into action, pumping out dozens of low budget rip-offs. Astonishingly, the quality of these wasn’t that great. One of the most remarkable efforts is Cruel Jaws (can you guess which film it’s copying?), directed by the, ahem, interesting Bruno Mattei. By the way, Italian films by law must have at least 18 different titles, and this was released in some territories as Jaws 5. Presumably territories where copyright law isn’t a big thing. Mattei (using the pseudonym William Snyder, for reasons best known to himself) filmed about 40% of new material, using actors from the “at least they’re having a go” school. The rest of the film is made up of stock footage (not so rare) and scenes lifted wholesale from other shark films. Not recreated or restaged, simply shoved straight in. Jaws, Jaws 2 and a host of lesser films find themselves in this, widely regarded as the Citizen Kane of shark attack films. That this was made in 1995 is the icing on the celluloid cake. Mattei also uses the soundtrack from Star Wars at one point, which is a nice change from the disco music present throughout. Again, 1995.

Despite, or probably because of all this, Cruel Jaws is a fascinating watch. The sheer brazenness of it must be applauded, although probably not by Mattei’s lawyers. Apparently they called off the Oscars that year, as they knew this would sweep the board. It’s not easy to get hold of, I’ll leave you to imagine why.

And I’ve been having so much fun with Cruel Jaws that I’ve got no room to talk about official remakes. Which means tune in next month!

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Along with my love of horses, I have a passion for Westerns, having been brought up on a healthy diet of them and as all my first crushes were (apart from Elvis) cowboy based I daresay I had something of a romantic view of them. When I grew up, I realised how hard the life was, but that never stopped me pining for the wide-open spaces, a trusty steed and one of those cool hats. Mine would have been black.

Anyway, An Englishwoman’s Guide to the Cowboy is a book I’ve had on my Kindle for years, and it was an absolute delight to finally get to it.

Set in the American West in 1867, Annie Haddon, a well-bred bookish spinster, is travelling with what remains of her family — the domineering Aunt Bea and her spiteful cousin, Charlotte. There is a stagecoach wreck, and Annie is left for dead by her caring family who are more interested in saving themselves. Fortunately for Annie, a cowboy by the name of Colt McCall comes by and saves her.

Annie is English and comes from the buttoned-up Victorian era. Colt lives by his own rules and hates the English. Yet somehow, they must get along over the vast distances they have to travel to get Annie back to her family.

And what awaits her? Marriage to possibly one of the most hideously described suitors ever. But it’s the best thing for her, so her aunt insists.

This was the most delightful book to read, and I relished every page, every description, every beautifully turned sentence. The descriptions were so vivid you could feel the heat, the dust. The characters so wonderfully rounded you could almost be Annie in among them. And the dialogue? Pitch perfect, the humour as dry as the dust blowing across from the prairie.

Despite the fact I felt like slapping Annie at times, so low was her self-esteem, I loved this book and highly recommend it to all who like good storytelling and maybe once upon a time had a hankering for the cowboy way of life.

Jane Austen meets Zane Grey indeed.

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.

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TEXT GIVING

To make a donation, it’s easy by SMS with the word BLOODRUNNER to 70085

To donate £5

Alternatively you can opt to give any whole amount Up to £20 for example BLOODRUNNERS20 to 70085

Or visit our Just Giving page

https://www.recycle4charity.co.uk/register/C156781

Do you know a group who would like to know more about what we do? Did you know we do talks and presentations?

If you are interested contact us at info@servsc.org.uk

Registered charity number 1189346

Under Starter’s Orders

Paul Kinally from Peter Lane & Partners in Kimbolton considers how to plan for success in moving home in 2026.

And they’re off! Many of those who have resolved to move home in 2026 already have the first fence in their sights - finding somewhere to buy and, in most cases, finding a buyer. Many more fences lie ahead - mortgages, surveys, contracts, chains, the occasional fall-through, schools and timing. These are not small hurdles and that is why moving home is best approached as a long-distance race rather than a sprint.

Both buyers and sellers should give themselves time. If circumstances allow the move should be thought of as a year-long project rather than a hurried transaction. Time creates space: space to reflect, to weigh decisions carefully, and ultimately to make great choices. Time also invites a little luck. Instead of agonising over a property that is almost right, waiting a little longer may reveal the home that feels more like an obvious yes.

A philosophical outlook also helps. The ten-out-of-ten property is a unicorn; the nineout-of-ten is a white rhino. But a seven or eight-out-of-ten in the right location, with good bones and the potential to become a personal nine-out-of-ten, is often within most people’s grasp - and well worth waiting for.

The market, like life, is always in motion, and personal circumstances change just as quickly. Buying or selling a home should be an exciting milestone, not a source of constant anxiety. With thoughtful planning and a steady pace, it can be exactly that. Some people seem naturally adept at moving, others less so, but confidence in the process can be learned given time and the right guidance. Think of your estate agent as a trainer of champions.

Whatever changes 2026 may bring, we hope they are positive ones for you and we stand ready to help - calmly, carefully, and with experience and enthusiasm - as you move into a wonderful new chapter of your life.

Happy New Year.

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

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.

Trusted Conveyancing Experts at Wilson Browne Solicitors

At Wilson Browne, we recognise that property transactions are significant milestones. With years of experience and a CQS accreditation, our team is committed to delivering a smooth, efficient conveyancing process tailored to your needs.

We offer expert advice on all types of property—registered or unregistered, freehold or leasehold—and bring a deep understanding of the legal intricacies involved in each transaction.

Our approach is built on long-standing client relationships. Beyond standard sales and purchases, we support clients with equity releases, first registrations, property transfers, and remortgages—providing clear, practical guidance every step of the way.

Transparency is at the heart of what we do. We don’t rely on misleading low quotes; instead, we offer fixed, honest pricing based on our extensive experience, so you always know where you stand.

We hold the Platinum Trusted Service Award from Feefo, for customer reviews and feedback. These are genuine, verified reviews from clients and the prestigious accolade is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and support to our clients.

Located in the heart of Higham Ferrers, our characterful office in the Market Square is home to a dedicated legal team with strong ties to the local property market. We work closely with local agents and advisors to ensure a seamless experience for our clients.

Known for our responsiveness and attention to detail, we keep you informed throughout the process—because we understand how important these transactions are to you.

If you're looking for a conveyancing team that combines expertise with a downto-earth approach, our Residential Conveyancing team is here to help—offering all the support you need, when you need it.

February, or Febrrrrrruary as it should be called, is usually full of the commercial pressure to be loved up. Failing that, there are Galentine’s events to plan and enjoy, or simply just go about life as normal, because didn’t that Valentine fella end up getting beheaded anyway? No wonder I always ‘mispronounce’ Valentine’s Day as Halloween and vice versa. My favourite February in memory is 2015. I’d left my job in Cambridge, had started a whirlwind romance, and was about to embark on a year of solo backpacking. Allow the romantic in me to pen a love letter to a couple of the countries and experiences that left a mark.

Dear Sri Lanka. Where to start? Everything about you wowed me. Given the chance, I still rave about you and both times I visited. The beautiful train journey from Colombo to Kandy, lush green countryside everywhere I looked. It was fun to tick off the Lonely Planet guide must-sees, but it’ll always be the unique experiences learning about your rich history and culture from the locals that’ll stay with me. The friendly people offering advice on where to stay when backpacker budget friendly accommodation didn’t seem available. Hambantota on the south coast was such a place, and I’ll forever remember Thaliph and his friend singing to my friend Ricki and I outside our beach hut, giving us recommendations for Sri Lankan literature, advising us on where to buy to best kottu and even providing a local’s recollection of the 2004 tsunami that devastated the coast. Tikki the collie behaving as a guard-dog on our walks from the beach into town was very special and it was quite the wrench when we had to leave for our next destination. Feeding the elephants at Pinwala Elephant Orphanage was also an unforgettable experience, albeit also quite daunting. Them’s some big mouths.

That seems a suitable place to hop over to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. While Indonesia, specifically Lombok’s Gili Islands, was where I fell in love with the underwater world, Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef was where I put this love affair to the best possible use. Introducing other people to the reef’s inhabitants was, simply put, breathtaking every single day. In my travel blog while working on a liveaboard catamaran called MV Kangaroo Explorer I was suitably giddy:

“During the first session of the day, on East Timor, I was asked to take the three certified divers on a guided tour, meaning I needed to brief them on what would happen, go through all the dive safety rules, and tell them a bit about their site, as well as let them know when to get ready. You’re reading this and already thinking, “Yeah, so what? People do that sort of thing all the time?” Seeing as I was one of those nervous divers to start with back in April on Koh Tao, if you’d said to me back then that I’d be working as a trainee dive professional, I might have laughed but secretly wished it would somehow come true. Six months on, I’m doing it. And LOVING it. We’re talking full on, pinch-myself-squeal-into-the-snorkel-face-down-in-the-water-jump-out-of-bedeager-for-work-at-5am-don’t-know-what-I’ll-do-come-the-end-of-my-traineeship LOVING it.”

Call me a cheesy romantic overly dependent on punctuation and wordy descriptions, but there haven’t been many times I’ve described a feeling with a sentence involving 30 hyphens before. This mermaid is looking forward to the next country that provokes even half that total.

Sally Gower

Bystander Community

HAIL WESTON WILDLIFE AND GARDENING GROUP

Tuesday 3rd February

7.30pm, Hail Weston Village Hall,

A talk from Stephen Black - The Happy Brewer Can you use flowers and vegetables from your garden to make wine?

Members £1.00 per meeting (annual membership £7.00/year)

non members £3.00 per meeting (certain meetings/events may cost more)

Light refreshments will be available for a donation and there will be a Raffle (4-6 prizes) including a garden centre voucher (£25) further information contact: tel_maggs2@225771mgl.co.uk

COMMUNITY CINEMA AT THE MANDEVILLE HALL

7-30pm FRIDAY

20thFEBRUARY

“An astonishing feelgood film about life with Tourette’s” The Times

BAR, ICECREAMS, & FREE POPCORN Tickets £5, £4 + booking fee at www.ticketsource.co.uk/mandevillehallkimbolton. Bytes Café 10 to 12-30pm Mondays and Fridays or on the door. Information at COMMUNITY CINEMA-The Mandeville Hall Kimbolton.

Mandeville Hall

Tuesday 6th January 2026

Tuesday 3rd February 2026

Tuesday 3rd March 2026

7.30pm for 8.00pm Start

• Generous cash prizes

• Raffle

• Refreshments Available

Bring a friend and come along and join in the fun

All proceeds to the Mandeville Hall Charity Registered Charity No 302646

KIMBOLTON

Saturday April 11th. 2:00-4:00pm

Mandeville Hall Kimbolton

Clothes books toys shoes white elephant handbags garden household items and more

Entrance £1 includes free raffle ticket

Tea coffee and homemade cakes £ CASH only sale.

Proceeds to Kimbolton community projects.

Donations can be dropped off at the hall on… Friday from 2:00 to 4:00. Saturday 10:00 to 12:00. are sponsoring the cost of the Hall

10 to 12-30pm Mondays & Fridays in the Community Hall behind the Mandeville Hall

Bytes Café

Run by the Mandeville Hall for the Community

Coffee, Tea and Cakes Free IT help available with facilities for A4 & A3 copying & laminating

Kimbolton Probus Club

Our well - established Probus luncheon club welcomes retired and semi -retired business or professional people from Kimbolton and neighbouring villages.

We meet on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 12:00 for 12:15pm at the Snooty Tavern , Great Staughton, enjoy a delicious meal followed by a speaker. Interested??

KEYSOE VILLAGE HALL

BIG BREAKFAST

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 21ST

SATURDAY MARCH 21ST

SATURDAY APRIL 18TH 9am - 11am

Services in bold italics are also broadcast via Zoom:

meeting ID: 380915 8110 Passcode: 90Mn1s

In addition to the above on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday there is Morning Prayer at 8.30am and Evening Prayer at 5.30pm via Zoom

meeting ID: 460073 8580 Passcode: wJ94Sa

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 school term

ALL SAINTS, LITTLE STAUGHTON

Sun 1st: 9.00am Parish Communion

Sun 15th: 9.00am Parish Communion

Sun 22nd: 4.00pm Benefice Evensong

ST. ANDREW’S, GREAT STAUGHTON

Sun 1st: 10.30am All Age Worship

Sun 8th: 10.30am Parish Communion

Sun 15th: 10.30am Parish Communion

Sun 22nd: 10.30am Parish Communion

ST. NICOLAS, HAIL WESTON

Sun 1st: 10.30am Morning Praise

Sun 8th: 9.00am Parish Communion

Sun 15th: 3.00pm Creative Communion

Wed 18th: 7.30pm Ash Wednesday Benefice Communion

Sun 22nd: 9.00am Parish Communion

What’s on in Kimbolton in February

Sunday 1st 3pm Kim Jam. New Sun Inn

Monday 2nd 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall 10-12pm Fitness Class. Mandeville Hall 2.30pm WI. Mellow Yellow - Speaker Duncan Farrington. Mandeville Hall

Tuesday 3rd 9.30 - 10.30am Baby & Toddler Group. Youth & Community Hall.

2 - 4pm Carpet Bowls Club. Mandeville Hall 4.15 - 5.15pm Rainbows. Scout Hut 5.30 - 6.45pm Brownies. Scout Hut

Girlguides. Scout Hut. Check website for times: www.girlguiding.org.uk 7pm Bingo. Mandeville Hall

Wednesday 4th 10-12pm Bridge Club. Mandeville Hall 2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall 7.30-9.30pm Unleash Yoga Flow. Mandeville Hall

Thursday 5th

Friday 6th

Senior Lunch Club. Youth & Community Hall

Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall

Saturday 7th 6 - 8pm Pop Up Wine Bar.

Tuesday 10th 9.30 - 10.30am Baby & Toddler Group. Youth & Community Hall.

Visit to Kimbolton Fire Station

At the end of 2025 we had a terrific visit to Kimbolton Fire Station! Firstly the Rainbows (4-7 years old) took it in turns to try on firefighters’ uniform and equipment and have a go with the fire hose.

Then the Brownies (7-10 years old) took their turn with the hoses and uniform, then they dragged the human-sized dummies to safety and looked at each other through the thermal-imaging cameras.

Your Community Car Scheme is for anyone who needs to make essential journeys e.g. for medical appointments, shopping and social meetings/wellbeing events. , where no suitable public transport exists.

Imagine you have to get to an appointment, you do not have access to a vehicle or public transport so how are you going to get there? Our volunteer drivers can help, they offfer more than just a lift - they are friendly, reliable and DBS checked so our clients know they are in safe hands.

Our volunteers use their own cars to provide transport. It is helpful for us to know at the time of booking if a wheelchair (we can only take foldable wheelchairs where clients can self-transfer to and from the car), walker or an assistance dog needs to be transported and if you require any assistance getting in and out of the car. We would also appreciate as much notice as possible, ideally 5 days although we understand this is not always possible.

There is a charge of 45 pence per mile for the journey, based upon mileage travelled by the driver plus a booking fee of £2 per journey to cover HVC running costs. This is payable in cash to the driver at the end of the journey. A minimum fee of £2 will apply for short journeys of 5 miles or less plus the £2 booking fee.

Our St Neots office is open from 10 - 12 Monday to Thursday - 01480 476047 - to book your journey you can call during office hours or leave us a message on the answer phone and someone will get back to you as soon as possible. More information can be found on our website: https://huntsvc.org.uk

We look forward to hearing from you!

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Air Conditioning Domestic Electrical

Fuse Box Upgrades

Lights replaced

Electrical Certificates EICR

All electrical work undertaken

Part P Registered

Daikin 5kw EMURA in black

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Canine Corner - Living With Dogs and Children

Dogs and children can live perfectly happily together, they can enrich the lives of one another and there is nothing more lovely than seeing a child playing with his or her pet dog. Having a dog in the family teaches a child how to be caring and compassionate, how to respect living creatures and when they are old enough, how to take on responsibility. As a parent and dog owner, it is your responsibility to oversee all interactions to ensure a safe and harmonious relationship between your dog and your child.

• Toddlers can be quite unnerving for dogs; they can be loud and unpredictable, they fall over easily and grab things unexpectedly. Always supervise interactions between your dog and your toddler, never leave them alone. Even the most tolerant dog is still a dog and it is unfair to expect them to cope alone with the attention of a toddler. Your job as a parent is to protect your child from your dog and your dog from your child.

• Teach your toddler to be calm and gentle with the dog, lead by example and show them how to stroke gently. Praise them when they stroke the dog correctly. Never allow your toddler to hug/ climb on/ be rough with the dog. Neither should they be allowed to put fingers in the dogs mouth. Teach your toddler to leave dog alone when they are asleep/ resting and make sure your dog is never bothered by your toddler when he is eating or has a chew.

• Always watch your dog for signs of anxiety around your child and visiting children. Trying to hide, panting, low/ crouching body language, lip licking, yawning, wide 'whale' eyes and growling are all signs of stress. Make sure your dog can escape from the children to somewhere quiet. If you have lots of children visiting it may be difficult to actively supervise all interactions so it is a good idea to put your dog in a quiet room out of the way. Many dog bite incidents occur during family get-togethers when the dog gets overwhelmed but the adults are too distracted to notice.

• As your child grows up, teach them not to approach strange dogs unless they ask you first and you can check with the owner. It is always better to give the dog the choice, even if the owner says it is fine, their dog might not agree. Tell your child to stand a few feet away. If the dog comes to say hello, the child can calmly hold out his hand for the dog to sniff. If the dog wants a fuss, their shoulder is usually the safest place. If the dog chooses not to approach the child, tell them that it is fine, the dog does not feel like saying hello today and it is important to respect that.

• If you are concerned about your dog’s behaviour around your children, please contact an ABTC Registered behaviourist for advice.

Laura Travis BSc (Hons) PG Dip CABC - Clinical Animal Behaviourist

Carry on Regardless

My journey through the Carry On films brings me to Carry On Regardless (1961), a film I hold in such high regard. It's on my list of top six favourites (a list I always claim is only five), and trying to distil my love for it into a single article feels almost impossible; but that's the joy of it, it’s a film overflowing with pure, unadulterated comedy.

The previous films had parodied specific settings (military life, hospitals, teaching), but with Carry On Regardless this was an original creation. The filmmakers wanted a chance to explore a variety of bizarre situations and put the cast through their paces, so with this original idea, it allowed them to be more experimental, and in my personal opinion, it paid off!

The film marks the return of Sid James, and this time he's here to stay, setting his place at the Carry On table. He is not his usual lecherous self here again, instead he plays the role of a somewhat serious businessman, Bert Handy, who sets up ‘Helping Hands’, a kind of early temping agency, that provides people for any job, no matter how ridiculous. It’s a genius premise that provides the perfect vehicle for the cast’s comedic talents.

The usual crowd is all here and in brilliant form. We have Kenneth Connor who is hired as a babysitter, an assignment he receives from the great Fenella Fielding in her first Carry On role. There is Joan Sims who delivers a masterclass in physical comedy as a tipsy guest at a formal wine-tasting. Kenny Williams plays the perpetually exasperated character and speaker of 16 languages, and Charles Hawtrey with his particular brand of eccentricity a highlight in every scene.

The film also features a fantastic cameo by Hattie Jacques as a ward sister, a familiar and welcome sight. It’s also in this film that we get the first glimpse of Liz Fraser as one of the new recruits. She adds a youthful energy to the ensemble and her performance is a perfect fit for the chaotic world of Helping Hands.

The film’s humour comes from the sheer absurdity of the jobs the characters take on; from being a human mannequin for a man that wants to make sure his wife’s surprise dresses will fit her, to Williams taking a pet chimpanzee for a walk and a tea party in the park; sheer delight.

Departing from a single genre was a key moment for the franchise. It began to show the strength of the cast and the producers & writer’s ability to create comedy out of nothing but a simple idea. This once again proved that the Carry On franchise was more about its staple of characters and the reactions to their farcical situations, than it was about a specific genre of story.

Carry On Regardless reminds me of those younger years with sitting in front of the television, and being captivated by its brilliant and free-wheeling comedy that is so rarely seen today. It perfectly captures the simple joy of British humour, and that's why I see this as a timeless classic.

Ross Richardson

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.

How what3words can help 999 #KnowExactlyWhere

what3words has helped to locate nearly 4,000 incidents since it first started being used by emergency services. It has given every 3m square in the world a unique identifier made of 3 words - making the location of any emergency very easy todescribe and share. For example ///tortoises.swarm.announce will take you to a precise location on Ben Nevis where, in February 2020, a group of hikers were rescued.

To locate, search or navigate to a what3words address, all you need is the free app. Make sure you have it downloaded on your device and know how to use it, to help save time, resource and lives.

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.

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From your Cambridge Correspondent

As I write this, term is yet to commence, but it will not be long before Lent Term gets underway. Cambridge’s terms are famously short – just eight weeks – and a lot gets packed into a relatively brief period.

There is plenty going on in Cambridge this month that is open to all. The Darwin College Lecture Series, the largest public lecture series in the city, runs from 23 January to 13 March. This year’s theme is Song. The lectures are free to attend and take place on Fridays at 5.30pm in the Lady Mitchell Hall on the Sidgwick Site (www.darwin.cam.ac.uk/lecture-series/).

Meanwhile, the Made in Ancient Egypt exhibition at the Fitzwilliam Museum (www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk) continues until April. It explores ancient Egypt through the lives of its craftspeople, with jewellery, ceramics and sculpture on display, including spectacular objects never before seen in the UK.

On 13 February, the award-winning choir Tenebrae comes to Cambridge to perform at Trinity College Chapel, presenting music ranging from Byrd and Monteverdi through to living composers. The following week marks the beginning of Lent, and anyone wishing to attend a choral evensong in a college on Ash-Wednesday will be spoilt for choice.

This month, instead of highlighting an individual college, I want to turn to developments in West Cambridge over the past couple of decades. Anyone driving into the city along Madingley Road will have noticed the steadily increasing number of new buildings. Many house academic departments that have outgrown their original central sites.

The Cavendish Laboratory, Cambridge’s physics department, is a striking example. It began life in a modest building behind St Botolph’s Church, where Ernest Rutherford was based

when he became Director in 1919. It is unthinkable that such a site could accommodate a modern physics laboratory: after relocating to West Cambridge in the 1970s, the Cavendish has now moved again into state-of-the-art buildings, made possible by a munificent benefaction from the estate of the late Ray Dolby.

Other notable departments in West Cambridge include Chemical Engineering and the Computer Laboratory. Surrounding these academic hubs is a growing ecosystem of science and technology companies, start-ups and incubators, all benefiting from close proximity to university research and talent. The British Antarctic Survey is also headquartered here and forms an important part of this wider Cambridge ecosystem.

Together, these developments illustrate how Cambridge continues to evolve, balancing its historic core with expansion at its edges. A century ago, the land now known as West Cambridge was largely open farmland; today it is a centre of teaching, research and innovation. While the colleges and city centre remain central to Cambridge’s identity, areas such as West Cambridge are increasingly shaping its future – not only as places of study, but as hubs of collaboration and discovery. As Lent Term begins, it is a timely reminder that Cambridge is a city constantly renewing itself, even as it remains rooted in tradition.

Sam Venn

cambridgecorrespondent.bystander@proton.me

La Cote d’Or Antiques

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

T H R E E S H I R E S N E T W O R K I N G

C O N N E C T , L E A R N , A N D S H A R E !

D i s c o v e r l o c a l b u s i n e s s e s a n d

s h a r e i d e a s

G e t a d v i c e a n d s o l u t i o n s t o

m o v e f o r w a r d .

B u i l d f r i e n d s h i p s a n d l a s t i n g

c o n n e c t i o n s .

S h a p e t h e g r o u p ’ s f u t u r e w i t h

y o u r i n p u t .

E n j o y i n s p i r i n g t a l k s a n d f r e s h

p e r s p e c t i v e s .

S h a r e c h a l l e n g e s i n a s a f e ,

s u p p o r t i v e s p a c e

S h o w c a s e y o u r b u s i n e s s a n d

c o n n e c t f a c e - t o - f a c e .

T e a , c o f f e e & b i s c u i t s i n c l u d e d !

o m e a n d j o i n o u r m o n t h l y

" m o r e t h a n j u s t

n e t w o r k i n g " m e e t i n g s !

We m e e t o n t h e f i r s t

We d n e s d a y o f e v e r y m o n t h

a t K i m b o l t o n C a s t l e

1 0 : 4 5 a m - 1 p m

C o n t a c t U s :

e l e a n o r @ s h r e w d p r . c o . u k

j o h n h i t c h i n @ b t i n t e r n e t . c o m

0 7 7 0 2 5 9 7 6 7 0

w w w . t h r e e s h i r e s n e t w o r k i n g . c o . u k

Please mention Village Bystander when responding to adverts

Full sweeping services availablelocal, reliable, fully qualified & insured Chimney Sweep.

Covering Peterborough—Cambridge and surrounding areas. Contact Thomas on 07990 561874 or email sweepingtomltd@gmail.com

At Golden Community, we believe in a holistic approach to community services, recognising that true well-being encompasses more than just physical health.

Our Holistic Support Services include:

Individualised Personalised Approach

Health Monitoring (BP, Blood Tests, Weight Checks)

Befriending and Activity Home Visits

Dementia respite for carers at home

Social Visits (including shopping and outings)

Emotional Wellbeing Support

Administrative Support

Palliative and End of Life Services

specialising in coordinating end of life care and a nurse/carer sitter service.

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 kymvalleyguidingdistrict@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

Emma Mumford 07881 621260 1st Brington Scout Group

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.

Kymbrook Pre-School, Kimbolton Road, Keysoe 01234 376100 www.kymbrookpreschool.co.uk

Playtimes Pre-School & Out of School Club, Spaldwick 01480 890077 www.playtimesplaygroup.co.uk

Puddeducks Nursery & Pre-school, Colmworth 01234 378880 www.puddleducksnurserypre school.co.uk

Puddleducks Pre-School, Kimbolton 01480 860743

Riseley Rascals, Riseley Village Hall (Term Time Only) 07986 313037 9:30- 11am Tuesday morning St. Leonards Day Care, Brington 01832 710020

Primary & Secondary Schools

Brington C of E Primary School 01832 710383

Crosshall Infant School Academy Trust, St Neots 01480 475980 www.crosshallinfant.co.uk

Crosshall Junior School Academy Trust, St Neots 01480 475972 www.crosshalljunior.co.uk

Eileen Wade Primary School, Upper Dean 01234 708260 www.ewmeschools.org.uk/ eileen-wade/

Great Staughton Primary Academy 01480 860324 www.greatstaughton.cambs. sch.uk

Kimbolton Primary Academy, Newtown, Kimbolton 01480 860743 www.kimboltonprimary academy.cambs.sch.uk

Kymbrook Primary School, Kimbolton Road, Keysoe. 01234 376266 www.kymbrookprimary.uk

Riseley Primary School 01234 708218 www.riseleyschool.co.uk

Spaldwick Primary School 01480 890371 www.spaldwickschool.org.uk

Ernulf Academy, Barford Road, St Neots, Cambs. 01480 374748 www.astreaernulf.org

Hinchingbrooke School, Huntingdon, PE29 3BN, 01480 375700 www.hinchingbrookeschool.net

Kimbolton School, Kimbolton 01480 860505 www.kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk

Longsands Academy, St Neots, Cambs. PE19 1LQ 01480 353535 www.astrea-longsands.org

USEFUL & EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Doctors at Kimbolton 01480 860205

Doctors at Gt. Staughton 01480 860770

Doctors at Sharnbrook 01234 781392

NHS Direct 111

NHS Cambridgeshire 01223 884 008

Patient Advice & Liason Service 01733 673 405 (PALS)

Cambs & Peterborough

Patient Advice & Liason Service 01234 795814 (PALS)

Bedfordshire

Hospitals

Addenbrookes, Cambridge 01223 245151

Bedford 01234 355122

Hinchingbrooke, Huntingdon 01480 416416

Cambridgshire Fire and Rescue 01480 444500

Non Emergency Police Line 101

Councillors

Cllr Ian Gardener - CCC Alconbury & Kimbolton Division ian.gardener@cambridgeshire.gov.uk

Cllr Jonathan Gray - HDC Kimbolton ward jonathan.gray@huntingdonshiredc.org.uk

Cllr Stephen Cawley - HDC Ellington Ward stephen.cawley@huntingdonshiredc.org.uk

AA Emergency Breakdown 0800 887766

Alcoholics Anonymous 0800 9177650

Carers Direct 0808 802 0202

Childline 0800 1111

Citizens Advice 03444 111 444

Electricity Emergency 105

Floodline 0345 988 1188

Gas Emergency 0800 111 999

National Debt Line 0808 808 4000

National Rail Enquiries 0333 202 2222

NSPCC 0800 800 500

Parentline 0800 800 2222

RAC Emergency Breakdown 0800 828282

RSPCA 0300 1234 999

Samaritans 116 123

UK Missing Persons Unit 0800 234 6034

Victim Support 0808 168 9111

Please mention Village Bystander when responding to adverts

Clubs, Groups and Organisations

Bolnhurst & Keysoe Parish Council Clerk

Buckworth Cricket Club Social Club

Saqhib Ali, 07386 904950

http://buckworthcricketclub.co.uk/

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service 01480 444500

Catworth Women’s Group

Catworth Quilters Group

Ellington Neighbourhood Watch

Ellington Village Club

Grafham & Ellington Art Group

Great Staughton Village Hub

Gt Staughton Horticultural Society

Gt Staughton Playing Field & Pavilion

Hargrave Investment Club

Barbara Cawdell 01832 710404

Pam Wardle 01832 710324

Rick Wilcox 01480 890902

Sue Rice (Chairperson) 01480 896139

Jackie Woods, 01480 890279

Details on the Great Staughton and Perry Facebook page

Emma Mumford 07881 621260

Bob Jewell 01480 861259

Rick 07905 211919 or Sue 07818 050034

Kimbolton Senior Citizens lunch club 01480 861540/860735 (Thurs, 12noon) Mandeville Hall

Kimbolton Local History Society

Kimbolton & Stonely Parish Council

Kimbolton Church - Bell Ringing

Kimbolton & district Royal British Legion

Kimbolton Castle Rotary Club

Kimbolton Bridge Clubs

Kimbolton Probus Club

Nora Butler 01480 861007

Jo Russel 01480 276075

Mary Foster 01480 861594

David Henrick 01480 896556

Chris Davies 01234 376542

Mandeville Hall, Wednesdays, John Figgures 07944 155576

Steve Jacklin 01480 860805 / Mary Foster 01480861594

Little Staughton Parish Clerk clerk@littlestaughtonparishcouncil.gov.com, 07729 960264

Neighbourhood Watch Gt Staughton

North Beds Ramblers

Pertenhall & Swineshead Parish Clark

Save the Children Fund

Stow Longa Village Community - social events

The Villages Gardening Club

The Stables Christian Centre

Frank Backhouse, 01480 861167

Margaret Sawyer northbedswalks@gmail.com, www.ramblers.org.uk/go-walk ing/ramblers-groups/north-bedfordshire-group

Diane Robins, 07786 656088 clerk@pertenhallandswineshead-pc.gov.uk

Nora Butler 01480 861007

Christine Hayes 01480 860519 Christine.Hayes@StowLonga.org.uk

Jan Roche 01832 710561 janetroche0@gmail.com

Sean Watkiss, 01234 376237 work-based training to small groups of vulnerable adults.

Tilbrook Village Newsletter www.tilbrookvillage.life

Tilbrook Amenites Committee Chairman, Stephen Birch, chairman tilbrookvillagelife@gmail.com

Tilbrook Parish Council Clerk

Whist Drives, Ellington

WI Groups

Kimbolton WI

Ellington WI

Gt Staughton WI

Pertenhall WI

Lionel Thatcher, 01480860055

Steve Sherratt , 01480 891418

Anne Beszant 01480 860672

Jan Sherratt 01480 891418

Ruth Easom, rutheasom@gmail.com

Glennis Bird, Tel: 01933 314275, glennis.bird@hotmail.co.uk

Perry WI perrywigroup@gmail.com

Village Halls

Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton

bookings: Stan Rhodes, 07367 783886

Village Hall, Catworth, bookings www.catworthvillagehall.co.uk

Village Hall, Dean and Shelton (Dalton Hall, U. Dean) www.daltonhalldean.org

Village Hall, Ellington

Village Hall, Gt Staughton, bookings

Village Hall, Hail Weston

Village Hall, Keysoe

Village Hall, Keyston, bookings

Village Hall, Little Staughton

Village Hall, Melchbourne

Anita Dowdall 01480 891821

Vicki Goldsmith 01480 860005

Liz Bacon / bookingshwvh@gmail.com.

Janet Browning 01234 376577

bookings@keysoevillagehall.co.uk

Chrissy Faulkner, 07714 080837

Kevin and Maria Foskett, 01234 376260

Bookings Julia Koball, juliakoball@hotmail.co.uk 07941 245639

Village Hall, Molesworth

Village Hall, Pertenhall, bookings

Village Hall, Tilbrook

07922 738818 Email:enquiries@molesworthvillagehall.co.uk www.molesworthvillagehall.co.uk

Paul Sheard paulsheard@aol.com 01480 861457

Erica Jago, 07903 987445, bookings.tilbrookvillage@gmail.com www.tilbrookvillage.life

Village Hall, Yelden 07539 662544, yeldenvillagehall@gmail.com

Spaldwick Community Room

Grafham Nature Reserve & Watch Group

Sarah Cardwell - clerk@spaldwickparishcouncil.org.uk

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 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

Alison Owen, 07767 202958 Tennis Club, Gt Staughton

Chair Based Strength And Balance Class

Grafham Tang Sou Dao Club

MVH Pilates - Melchbourne

MVH Tai Chi - Melchbourne

Nicole Yates, 01480 860616

Kimbolton Scout Hut, Thursdays 11:00-12:00pm, Lauren Watt, 01480 388111

Steven Treadaway 01480 812433, info@cambstangsoudao.co.uk

Penny Hales penny@tightassets.co.uk

Rob Poyton simplyflow@outlook.com PE28 Kickboxing, Grafham Village Hall

Mark James, 01480 819478

Yoga Classes, Little Staughton, Hail Weston, Linda Tongue 01480 350345, Brampton, Catworth & Godmanchester 07733343702, lindatongue@yahoo.co.uk Chelveston Village Hall - Chair Exercise Lisa, 07867 204128, lisaatfitness5@gmail.com Class for Older Adults - Thursday 11am

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) - 24th 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) - 25th 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: email volunteers@cambridgeshire.gov.uk www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/library

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.

Please mention Village Bystander when responding to adverts

Accountancy

Listings of Businesses in Our Area

Land Family Business, 01480 445490, p.19

Auctioneers/Valuers

W H Peacock, 01480 474 550, p.19

Architects/Planning/Drawings

PJP Architects, 07801 054648, p.39

Boutiques

Blue Blancmange, 07970 666258 p.49

Art, Gifts, Framing, Crafts, Ceramics, Hobbies

David Osborne Motorbike Spares, 07979 500900, p.55

Engraved by Elle, p.10

Grafham Coins, 01480 811227, p.10

La Cote D'or Antiques, 01480 861587, p.86

The Framery Ltd, 01480 860086, p.71

Building Services/Home Maintenance/Garage Doors

Ablewood. 07740 435801, p.45

CB Building, 07583 938006 p.11

GAP Home Improvements, 07935 002610, p.41

Garolla Garage Doors, 01480 630081, p.71

R&D Maskey, 01234 825015, p.97

Still & Sons, 01480 869042, p.75

Taylor Stilton, 01480 860047, p.45

The Home Handyman, 01480 861898, p.39

Business Networking

Three Shires Networking, 07788 558964, p.87

Care Professionals

Golden Community, 01480 759840, p.91

Computer/IT Services/Marketing/Proofreading/HR

Hudson Virtual, 07967 661613, p.86

iEdit, 01480 860519 p.83

Newport Bookkeeping Services, 07519 352933, p.26

Oxygen IT, 01480 390395, p.72

Silver Websites, 07340 234555, p.86

Social Beans, 07808 020554, p.72

Social Media Management, 01480 769002, p.29

Domestic Services

C Major Change, 07584 279228, p.90

Home ‘n’ Dry, Carpet Cleaning, 01487 840310, p.83

Sweeping Tom Ltd, 07990 561874, p.90

The Home Sorter, 07535 143497 p.81

Education/Tuition

Inn Farm Private Day Nursery, 07802 826798, p.15

One to One Tuition, 07803 504631, p.21

Playtimes Spaldwick, 01480 890077, p.26

SEB Online Tutoring, drbonlinetutoring@gmail.com, p.55

Electrical Services/Solar/Alarms

Aircon Tom, 07402 745802, p.70

DAC Services, 01234 709347, p.2

Domelec, 07912 092985, p.89

LCS Energy, 01480 470064, p.77

Selec Solar, 01480 400607, p.73

Estate Agents/Letting Agents/Property

Carr Estate Agents, 01480 597799, p.47

Peter Lane & Partners, 01480 860400, p.84

Simpsons Property Experts, 01480 589584 p.37

Top Hat Projects, 07814 709320, p.31

Financial Advisers & Financial Services

Beacon Wealth Management, 01480 869466, p.33

Funeral Directors

Crowsons, 01832 272269, p.39

Regency Funeral Directors, 01480 759408, p.34

Gardening/Landscaping/Tree Care/Logs/Flowers

Alex Abbs Gardener, 07399 445052, P.24

Eden Tree Specialists, 01234 960796, p.23

Handy Herberts, 01933 715936 p.25

JD Tree Surgery, 07745 378268, p.22

Manor Farm, 07849 528684, p.24

SJS Landscapes, 07876 763440, p.22

General Stores/Farm Shops/Wine Shops

Budgens, 01480 860582, p.50-51

Grafham Village Store, 01480 810119, p.20

Top End Stores, 01234 376426, p.98

Whitchurch Wines, jeff@whitchurchwines.co.uk, p.79

Health/Treatments/Beauty/Wellbeing/Counselling/ Fitness

Close Health and Beauty, 07729 381085 p.9

Courtyard Beauty, 07922 678843 p.9

Creative Hair Looks, 07764 336697, p.6

Fulcrum Health, www.fulcrumhealth.com, p.8

Jill Dighton, 07925 852985, p.10

Kimbolton Swimming Pool, 01480 862276 p.8

Rosie’s Salon, 07733 482359, p.9

The Nest at 53, 07778 024564, p.6

please call Julie on 07928 778457

Kitchens

Kitchen Culture, 01480 861822, p.31

The Kitchen Magician, 01480 477200 p.29

Music, Theatre, Singing, Entertainment

Carol John, 01234 708029, p.39

James Thomas, 07971 403856, p.74

Pets/Petcare Services /Equine/Training

Fresh Coat Dog Grooming, 07359 272545, p.71

Rebecca's Dog Grooming, 07397 534570, p.45

Top End Stores (Animal Feed), 01234 376426, p.98

Pest Control

Pest Gone, 07955 156397, p.11

Plumbers/Heating Engineer/Oil/Tanks

Anglia Oil Tanks, 01638 662955, p.13

Boiler Juice, www.boilerjuice.com, p.35

DAC Services, 01234 709347, p.2

Hill Heating, 01480 890929, p.25

Hydroflow, 07917 176375, p.31

LCA Maintenance Services Ltd, 01234 266220, p.3

Pubs/Restaurants/Cafes/Catering

Avalon Bakehouse, 07860 410075 p.82

Phaf Kimbolton, 07300 296926, p.47

The Elm, 01487 773585, p.18

The Flying Foodie natasha@flyingfoodie.co.uk, p.28

The Pheasant, 01832 710303, p.30

The Wheatsheaf Perry, 01480 810253, p.42-43

Solicitors

Wilson Browne Solicitors, 0800 0886004, p.53

Storage

Jonathan, 07753 638948, p.55

Travel

Fun with Santa, 01480 812598, p.11

Once In A Lifetime Holidays, 07961 884183, p.89

Valeting

CB AutoGlow, 07956 449182, p.99

Vehicle Services/Vehicle Care/Vehicle Sales/Transport

Robinsons Garage, 01480 860581, p.27

Top End Village Stores

Village Store | Animal Feed | Campsite

Top qualit y season fruit and vegetables (locally sourced where possible) HAYLAGE FROM £7.45 PER BALE

For all your needs

• 10kg and 25kg sacks of potatoes

• Butchers meats in stock

• Locally produced beers, ciders and coffee

• Local honey, pickles and preserves

• Fresh daily milk, bread & eggs

• Plenty of compost, topsoil, bark and farmyard manure

• General grocery store and off licence

• Lottery and Scratchcards

Supporting small businesses and local farmers. Hay, straw and haylage

• Stationary, greeting cards and gifts

• Cold and flu medicines

• Calor gas, logs, coal and kindling and bulk logs available for collection and delivery

• Collect + service, DHL, DPD, Fedex, UPS, Inpost and Royal mail 24hr and 48hr tracked

• Mobile phone, gas and electric top ups

• Delivery available

• All major credit cards accepted

Fruit and vegetable boxes avaliable

For all your pet needs

• Chicken feed, bedding and supplements

• Horse feed, bedding and supplements

• Cat, dog and small animal feeds

• All stock and smallholder feeds

• Wild Bird Feed

Top End Farm, Little Staughton, Bedfordshire MK44 2BY 01234 376426 | topendfarm@btconnect.com www.topendfarm.co.uk Free delivery T and C’s apply

SHAVINGS DOWN IN PRICE £10.50 PER BALE PRICE DROP

OPENING TIMES Mon-Fri 7am-5:30pm Sat 8am-5pm Sun 9am-3pm

•

• Principal bedroom with part-vaulted ceiling and well-appointed en suite.

• Sitting room with brick fireplace and wood burning stove.

• Rustic country kitchen with hand-built painted cabinets and hardwood counters.

• Separate dining/breakfast room and cosy snug.

• Delightfully private and charmingly landscaped garden.

• Off-road parking and large, detached pantiled garage/workshop.