Welcome to the September edition of the Bystander. Georgia Rose review’s Harriet Steel’s latest novel in the Inspector De Silva series entitled ‘Break from Nuala’. Find out more inside. We also have contributions covering Elvis and the summer just ended as well as advice on navigating the job market. Paul Kinally from Peter Lane & Partners finds grounds for optimism for the Autumn property market following the General Election. Hazel’s popular flash fiction is a tale entitled the Everlasting Beach. Find out how Inn Farm Nursery's baby room helps with social skills, devloping early language and other benefits. Canine Corner explains what it means when your dog growls and what you should do about it. We have Lee’s September gardening advice and as ever our community section is full of events and information. We have a lot more besides - so enjoy!
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This Month’s Contributors:
Lee Munday, Paul Kinally, Penny Young, Tony Larkins, Joanne Cox, Georgia Rose, Anthony Withers, Hazel Wright, Eugene Smith, Jeff Garland, Louise Herrriman, Mick Pescod, Sally Gower
September Contents
Editor’s Letter
The 3 Pillars Feeding the Homeless and
p.4
Supporting the Community p.6
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue p.7
Navigating the Job Market p.8
Health, Fitness, Beauty & Wellbeing p.8-11
Inn Farm - Adventures in the Baby Room p.14
Penny Young - Charles William – a Sad Life p.16-17
Anthony Withers-A Pilgrimage to Bayreuth p.18
Gardening & Outdoor Section p.22-23
Lee’s Gardening Corner p.22
Graham Thorpe - A Childhood Hero Who Will be Greatly Missed. p.30
The Everlasting Beach p.32
Beacon Wealth Management - Going For Gold: Choosing A Financial Planner p.33
The Grafham Water Community First Responder Scheme p.34-35
Eugene Smith - Elvis p.36
Georgia Rose - Break from Nuala p.44
Peter Lane and Partners - What Are We Waiting For p.48
Bystander Community p.56-65
The Staughtons with Hail Weston Church Services p.65
Canine Corner What Growling Really Means - And What You Should So About It p.66
Summer of ‘65 p.68
What’s On for Children? p.72
Nurseries, Primary & Secondary Schools p.72-73
Useful and Emergency Numbers p.73
Clubs, Groups & Organisations p.74-75
Mobile Library Times p.75
Business Listings p.76
THE 3 PILLARS FEEDING THE HOMELESS AND SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY.
I have lived in Eaton Socon for over 50 years. It all started over 8 years ago, January 2016. We had a family weekend in London. A show, a dinner and on Saturday morning a shopping trip to Oxford Street. It was a bitterly cold morning, sleet and Icy conditions. I left the rest of family to do their own shopping and walked passed an empty shop doorway where there were 3 bedraggled men looking totally wretched, frozen and much the worse for wear. All the shoppers with their bags, walked past, including myself. However, I stopped 30 yards up the road, and with a feeling of guilt returned to the 3 men. This decision changed my life . I asked if they wanted some hot food and coffee. They eyed me suspiciously but thanked me. Half hour later I returned with 3 McDonalds party packs including hot drinks. The guys were so pleased. So was I, but then I thought, what about tomorrow and the next day. We returned home but the 3 homeless men were still at the front of my mind.
Looking at my Freemasons magazine, there was an article asking for volunteers in Peterborough feeding the homeless and I offered my help. On my first visit there were 2 Men feeding a handful of homeless men hot dogs and coffee. They were builders and were serving from the back of their builders van. They were very busy with their building business & basically left me on my own to take care of looking after the homeless. So from the humble beginnings of serving out of the back of a builders van to a large rota of volunteers serving fresh hot food, clothes, toiletries, sleeping bags, tents, and accommodation to the Vulnerable and homeless in St Neots, Peterborough, Rushden and Northampton, bringing together the local community and the Freemasons.
This book is a lovely memoir, full of stories to make you laugh and cry with many colour photos of our volunteers in action. If you would like a copy of this Limited edition, fully illustrated, hardback at half price only £7.00 plus P&P please contact me directly at mick.pescod1@gmail. com.
Any profits from the book will go to our 3 Pillars Feeding the Homeless Charity.
Regards Mick Pescod
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/
Career Focus: Navigating The Job Market
As we head into 2024, an estimated 40% of people will be looking for a new job. This surge brings both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, more job openings mean more chances to find your dream role. On the other, competition will be fierce, making it essential to stand out in a crowded market.
The job search can be overwhelming, especially if it’s been a while since you last looked for a new position. The first step is understanding where and how to search. Job boards like Indeed and Reed offer a wide range of listings, but sector-specific sites can be more effective if you know your industry. Networking is also key—many opportunities come from connections, not just online listings. For those who use it, LinkedIn—a business and employment-focused social platform—has become increasingly popular for both advertising job roles and actively searching for potential candidates.
When applying, the method matters. For corporate roles, you’ll typically need a CV and a tailored cover letter. In the public sector, expect to answer specific competency questions. Charities and educational institutions often use application forms linked to a person specification, requiring you to demonstrate how you meet their criteria. Make sure you clearly understand what they are requesting, missing key information could mean your application does not even get read.
Reading a role specification carefully is crucial. It outlines the job’s responsibilities, required skills, and what the employer is looking for in a candidate. Tailoring your application to match these details can make all the difference.
To make the process less daunting, break it into smaller steps, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to seek help. Whether through a recruitment agency, career advice, or just support from friends and family, getting assistance can ease the stress of job hunting.
Remember, with the right approach, the job market doesn’t have to be a maze—it can be a path to your next big opportunity.
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Hello my name is Roger Batting I am a professional Drummer / Educator living in Great Staughton.
I am always feeling very blessed to be making music for a living. Having opportunities to work with very talented musicians, sharing ideas, creating and always learning from others.
Now having 40 years experience working with the likes of Dave Stewart (Eurythmics).
Abbey Road / Warner Bros.
Kevin Costner Hollywood movie / American idol. Big Brother / CBBC-Wolfblood.
Jack Savoretti
Radio 2 Live / Discovery Channel
I am currently Recording an Album for Andy Qunta. Ex-icehouse member, Based in L.A . Who also co-wrote John Farnham’s hit song The voice.
Aside from my usual Recording / gigging and Teaching duties. I am very proud to be part of a Great band called The Good Earth The band Signed a six Album deal with a major U.S label in 1992 Supporting the likes of Go West and Jimmy Barnes on major tours. Unfortunately In 94 we went our separate ways.
Fast forward 27 years to early 2021. Lockdown. An unexpected txt message, ”do you want to put the band together?”Without hesitation all five members said “yes”. With all the energy and enthusiasm that they had back in the day, The Good Earth set out on their mission :”to record an album we would be proud of.
The 12 track album is called Strange world and is now available.
We describe the Album as powerful, passionate, honest, melodic with thoughtful lyrics that have the potential for universal appeal. “Strange world “ is available now as a digital album from all outlets. i.e Spotify etc.
CD Hard copies are available on request from our site or me directly.
Check our new Strange world video and live YouTube footage. www.thegoodearthmusic.co.uk
I hope to share updates with you including Students Exam Achievements and any upcoming shows or gigs they may be involved with.
Any questions contact me.
A huge Thank you to John Hitchin for this opportunity to introduce myself.
‘Charles William’ was always known, at least by his parents’ servants, as – ‘Master Charles William’, very much as his sister was called ‘Miss Mary Anne’, whereas the other two siblings, both brothers just had the single Christian name, Nicholas and Francis. So, it is not an affectation by me! This may though just have been a fond childhood name, because from adulthood he signs himself simply as Charles or C. W. Kendall.
We first we see him arriving in New Zealand on 18th August 1852 on board The Spenser, with travelling companions, Thomas Henderson and a W. Carew. The latter could well have been a distant cousin (worth further research) as we have Carew’s in our family tree, both from the Cornwall and Guernsey sides of the family. Prior to this, Charles William had probably had 18 months at home, in Cornwall, recovering from his two years with the army in Bangalore, India.
Next, on 10th March 1853 Charles William arrives in Melbourne and is described as a “gold digger”. Given that his father, Nicholas was involved in mining in Cornwall (think Poldark) – perhaps Charles fancied his chances in the hurly-burly of the Ballarat goldfields, as did thousands of others from the UK at that time.
In 1855, 1856 and 1857 we find his name in an alphabetical list of the New Zealand poll register. The country had only held its first national elections in 1853. The criteria to appear on this list, or be eligible to vote, you had to be male, over 21 and with some ownership or connection to property. For the three years that Charles William appears on the list and with each page containing some 60 names, all the others have normal occupations such as, farmer, shipwright, carpenter, teacher, clergyman, settler even – but our man is listed as a ‘squatter’ the only person with such an ‘occupation’. I have learned that this is a term for people renting large areas of crown land and running stock on native pasture. It was likely that the settler had no legal title to the land, as this was in a district not yet properly surveyed. The next column states that Charles William is a householder and many of the others are similarly, or perhaps recorded as freeholders or freehold estate.
In November 1855 Charles William is leading quite a respectable life, he is recorded in the local newspaper, the Southern Cross, as making a donation to the Patriotic Fund. In January 1856 he heads a list of Race Stewards at the Rangiawhia Races. But as the 1850’s come to a close, shipping lists show that in 1859 Charles William has emigrated to Australia, but in 1860 he is on a ship bound for Liverpool, England, but he unexpectedly disembarks in Auckland.
This chaotic lifestyle might lead one to conclude that Charles William was mentally ill and therefore it is not surprising to discover that on 12th May 1862 he is admitted to Auckland Insane Asylum. Two legally qualified Medical Practitioners declare on oath that they find Charles Kendall to be of unsound mind and that he is to be received into the Public Lunatic Asylum of Auckland. Charles is incarcerated for slightly under eight weeks and records show that he is deemed fit to be discharged on 5th July 1862.
There are no more ‘sightings’ of Charles William until he pitches up at the Aurora Hotel, late in 1866 and in a physically very poor shape. He receives medical help, food and clothing from the hotelier, all be it that Charles William signs over his next quarterly allowance to cover these costs.
Had Charles been involved in the ferocious land battles in and around Rangiaowhia in 1864. Had he seen things no person should see, particularly one with such severe mental problems and alcohol addiction, which resulted in him dragging himself into the Aurora Hotel, clearly very close to death.
But Charles did not stay at the Hotel and indeed we cannot account for the last few weeks of his life. The death notice in the newspaper states that he died on 12th January 1867. His death certificate says that he died at Orewa, an area north of Auckland, but no address. Oh dear, this is so incredibly sad. Did he die alone? Did he die by the side of a road? However his death certificate records him as dying on 3rd January 1867, but his death is not registered until 1st February 1867, four weeks later. Who had identified the body, or who indeed even knew who he was?
So, to recap – my three times great grandfather, Nicholas Kendall (1800-1878) – decided to break up the relationship between his son, Charles William and Lucy Kirkham, the opera singer, in 1847. Twenty years later his son, Charles William is dead from liver failure brought on by alcoholism.
Meantime, Lucy Kirkham, banished to America, endures an arranged marriage to a man she did not love. We believe Lucy gives birth to Charles’s son but is forced to give the child away for adoption. Lucy is involved in a love triangle, where one of her lovers shoots the other. To escape the ignominy, she boards a boat travelling to San Franscisco which is ship wrecked, but Lucy is one of those rescued. She changes her Christian name to Louisa and marries James Jefferies, the medical student who had shot his love rival. James, her husband, becomes a famous American Civil War surgeon on the side of the Confederates and at the end of the War becomes a greatly loved Doctor in the town of Scottsville, Virginia. Lucy dies in 1895 (aged 69), of a stroke and is outlived by her husband by five years, they did not have any children.
James and Lucy’s House, Scottsville, Virginia
A pilgrimage to Bayreuth
By the time you read this the curtain will have come down on the 2024 Bayreuth season. Bayreuth is the holy of holies for Wagner fans and attending the opera is usually likened to a pilgrimage. But wasn’t he .... ?, Yes, he was Hitler’s favourite composer. And what about the antisemitism... ? Yep, guilty as charged. Or as Leonard Bernstein put it: how can such a first rate genius be such a third rate human being? Genius he was though, up there with Shakespeare and Leonardo. They used to say Beethoven + Shakespeare = Wagner. Where would Tolkien be without Wagner? And all the romantic Hollywood scores?
The Ring of the Nibelung, despite the dwarfs, giants, dragon, magic helmet is a stupendous human drama about love, deceit, corruption, greed and finally redemption through love. There are dwarves and rings and gods and the rest but the drama focuses entirely on human emotion and motivation – most of all the redemptive power of love, and the destructive effects of power and materialistic greed. And to enjoy it fully, you have to go to Bayreuth. You’ll wait ten years for a ticket, and you’ll pay though the nose, but when you stand in the grounds of the Festspielhaus, the years of waiting and the expense will drop away.
Wagner wrote the music for his dramas and to make sure that the words matched every mood of the music, he also wrote the libretti. He soon realised that no opera house in Germany could accommodate the Ring’s huge sets and large orchestra, so he designed and built his own. No singers were capable of taking on the demanding roles, so he had to find them and train them. The musicians would have to be specially recruited.
The Festspielhaus resembles a Greek amphitheatre. No aisles, no intrusive pillars, you enter from east or west doors. The seats and flooring is wooden so the Bayreuth fire brigade attend each performance. There’s no distracting orchestra, nor gesticulating conductor. They are under the huge stage. And finally, Wagner had the great good fortune to have as his patron the gay eighteen-year-old King Ludwig II who munificently donated huge sums of Franconia taxpayers’ money to the project.
Fifteen minutes before the performance begins (they start at 4pm) two trumpeters and two trombonists appear on the balcony and solemnly intone a bar or two from the act we are about to hear. They repeat the process five minutes later, and five minutes after that, this time with eight brass players. When the performance begins, the auditorium lights gradually dwindle (a Wagner innovation). So you sit in darkness until the gentle chords of E flat major evoking the rushing of the Rhine gradually invade the auditorium and in that magical moment, you are completely hooked. You have become an addict of the Wagner drug, for which there is no known remedy.
You meet lots of fanatics here. The couple from London, who got their tickets from the local Wagner Society. Another had only one ticket so his girlfriend had to wait outside. A woman from Florida had flown in for a single performance. If you don’t have a ticket you don’t get in. And forget ticket touts. It’s easier to get into a Taylor Swift concert than Bayreuth.
So what’s the deal? Overall it is a tremendous physical, emotional and spiritual experience to see and hear Wagner’s operas on his home ground and every year 54,000 fans swell the town’s coffers to pay homage to this great yet deeply flawed man. Ten times that number will apply for tickets. The fact that you have to wait 10 years for tickets only enhances the anticipation. There were no disappointments, everything was as I had imagined it would be.
The Ring on CD: Solti/VPO/Nilsson/Windgassen: first and best recording from 1965. Best DVD: Barenboim/Evans/Tomlinson recorded at Bayreuth.
Anthony Withers aw.staughton@gmail.com
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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.
We offer all the essen�als, some unique local produce* as well as local knowledge and a friendly welcome from the team.
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Gardening and Outdoor Section: p.22-24
Lee’s Gardening Corner
September is the month to try and keep the summer garden going as long as possible, even though evenings are drawing in. There are still lots of plants that give colour into November.
To help this display going keep watering and deadheading, this applies to bedding plants as well as perennials which may still send out more flowering shoots, such as roses. If you like a well tended lawn now is the time to scarify, spike and then feed the grass. Edges can be repaired, new seed sown onto bald patches, and generally liven up the grass again. This month you can move evergreen shrubs and conifers. Also clip hedges, try to get this done before the middle of the month so that any new growth has time to harden up before the winter comes along. Plant spring bulbs such as daffodils now (leave tulips until November). If the summer bedding is past it’s best then it can be replaced with plants such as violas and pansies, ready for winter colour.
There should still be crops of salad, courgettes, beans and carrots to harvest, with cauliflowers and cabbages on their way too. Autumn fruit such as raspberries and blackberries will now be at their best, closely followed by apples and pears. In the greenhouse reduce watering and feeding of all plants in pots, plant pots with spring bulbs and sow hardy annuals for early spring flowers. If your greenhouse crops are finished now would be a good time to have a clear out and get all the surfaces and glass washed ready for winter.
Plants for autumn colour include agapanthus, asters, chrysanthemums and phlox, as well as the tender dahlias which should look their best now.
Lee Munday
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
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mention
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
Graham Thorpe - a childhood hero who will be greatly missed
It is always a sad day when you open up a newspaper, or in this day and age the BBC News on the phone and read that a childhood hero has sadly left this world. Graham Thorpe was most definitely one of those. I remember watching his debut against Australia in the Ashes Test at Trent Bridge in 1993. His undefeated 114 in the second innings has stuck with me for many years. Having been dismissed cheaply in the first innings, in what was to prove yet another Ashes series thrashing by the Aussies in the 90s, Thorpe’s first century in his first test against the likes of Warne and Merv ‘the Swerve’ Hughes gave England fans something to cheer about in a decade that proved somewhat depressing for them. His grit and determination, coupled with the fact that left-handers always seem more pleasurable to watch bat, proved something of an inspiration. He was to go on to play 100 Test Matches for England, averaging 44.7 (impressive when compared to others of his era, such as Atherton at 37.7 in 115 matches and Hussein 37.2 in 96 matches). His average of 45.7 against the Aussies is even more impressive in an era when England just could not topple their great cricketing rivals.
Thorpe’s story in his younger years is also one of excellence. It is easy to forget just how talented you need to be to rise to the top of any discipline, not least sport. Thorpe was picked up by his local U17s as an 8yo! Surrey spotted him as an Under 11 and never let him go. Cricket was not his only talent: Brentford FC offered him trials and he was selected by England Schools. This was a man who worked his way up through the ranks from Surrey Juniors, through County Cricket, England A, the England One Day side and then finally the Test team, a journey that was sure to aid his ability to guts it out when at the crease; his 64no against Pakistan in fading light to seal a series win in Karachi comes to mind.
Whilst it is innings such as Karachi that formed many people’s impression of him, as has become well-documented he had other more personal battles away from the crease. We are, as a society, becoming more aware of the impact that mental health can have on individuals. We are often guilty of forgetting how hard it can be for those in the limelight and how public their successes and failures are. Many of us struggle to come to terms with our own responsibilities; when I imagine these being played out in the media for all to see, it is impossible to comprehend the impact this would have and the way in which I, and those close to me, would try to deal with it. Thorpe obviously suffered greatly, as did those around him as a result, and this no doubt saddens all of us. Nevertheless, he shall always be remembered by me as an individual to emulate in so many ways and a man who brought a vestige of hope to all of us cricket enthusiasts who stuck by the England Cricket Team in what was a tough decade. May he finally rest in peace.
The Everlasting Beach
As the weather hit a nice spell, Tracey and Richard made a last-minute decision to take themselves off for a day to Heacham beach in Norfolk.
When they arrived mid-morning, it was hot and sunny and the sea was a long way out. They spread down on the sand a huge beach sheet they had bought on a spring break in Lanzarote, and settled down on it. Within minutes, Richard was asleep, while Tracey lay on her stomach facing the entrance to the beach. There was a slight incline from the car park to the beach, so as she was lying down people coming on to the beach seemed to Tracey to suddenly ‘pop up’ over the crest.
As Tracey watched people arriving, she noticed a little girl of about five. She was dressed in a pretty yellow dress with a matching ribbon in her hair. Tracey had photos of herself at about five on this very beach. ‘That little girl could be me,’ she thought.
After a while, a young couple popped up, holding hands. Instantly, Tracey was transported back forty years to a day she and Richard had walked along this beach. It had been a beautiful day – warm and sunny but with a lovely sea breeze. Once they had walked away from the crowds, Richard had dropped to one knee, taken a ring from his pocket and asked her to marry him. ‘That couple could be me and Richard,’ she thought.
Next to seize her attention were a family – mum, dad, a girl of about nine and a boy of about seven. The children were very excited, and carried buckets and spades. The parents followed behind. Tracey thought back to days spent on this beach as a family. ‘That could be me and Richard with our two children,’ she thought.
Tracey closed her eyes and napped for a short time. When she woke, just appearing over the incline were another family – this time mum, dad, two boys of about eight and six, and an older couple who were almost certainly grandparents. The boys ran ahead shrieking with joy. The parents and grandparents followed on, laden with a windbreak, beach chairs and bags of food and paraphernalia. Tracey thought back to recent holidays on this beach that she and Richard had been privileged to share. ‘That family could be us, our son and daughter in law and our two grandsons’, she thought.
Shortly after, there appeared over the crest an elderly man and woman. Both walked with sticks, holding onto each other for support, but they both had beaming smiles on their faces. ‘That could be me and Richard in twenty years’ time,’ she thought.
Just then, Richard woke up. ‘What have you been doing while I’ve been asleep?’ he asked. Tracey looked at him. ‘I have been watching my whole life pass before me on this beach’ she said. ‘You know, generations come and go, but the beach itself is everlasting, welcoming everyone and helping all generations to make memories in its beauty and magic.’
Richard looked at her fondly. ‘Come on,’ he said. ‘I think you could do with a coffee.’ Tracey smiled – Richard always knew how to ground her and bring her back to the moment. ‘Sounds lovely’, she replied.
Hazel Wright: hazelwright1801@gmail.com
BEACON WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Your financial future is our priority.
GOING FOR GOLD: CHOOSING A FINANCIAL PLANNER
By Tony Larkins
From photo finishes to world-breaking records, many of us were glued to our screens watching the 2024 Paris Olympics. I loved watching the athletics as always, but I was inspired by the level of performance on display during the kayaking and BMX events.
But what does this have to do with financial planning, I hear you ask?
Watching the high level of performance, discipline and sportsmanship on display during the Games, I couldn’t help but wonder: what would it take for a financial planning firm to achieve a ‘gold medal’ in achieving their clients’ best interests?
Like the very best Olympic teams, the best financial planning firms combine years of experience, qualifications and performance outcomes, for the benefit of you, the client.
At Beacon, our gold medal – so to speak – is our ‘Chartered’ status from the CII, our industry body. Only firms with a certain level of experience and demonstrable commitment to their clients’ best interests can be ‘Chartered’. It means we’re recognised for our commitment to excellence across business practices, professional development and ethics.
When considering your financial future –whether it’s retirement, care fees or protection for your family – you want an adviser who understands you and is fully qualified to provide you with the best solutions available.
Where there are athletes and top athletes, there are also advisers and top advisers. It’s the years of experience and qualifications that make the difference at the finish line.
We believe that the more qualifications and years of experience a firm has, the better your financial situation can be addressed.
If you ’ re considering working with a financial adviser with only a minimum level of qualifications, ask yourself:
“Why haven’t they attained the highest possible qualifications to serve my best interests?”
The phrase “ you don’t know what you don’t know” is particularly relevant here
You’ve already shown your Olympic spirit, working hard to build up your wealth and making the best life for yourself as possible Let us help you ‘ go for gold’!
If you want help to create a successful financial plan to help you achieve your goals, get in touch with our team.
To speak with our local experts, please call us on 01480 869466 for a free initial, no obligation chat. Or visit www.beaconwm.co.uk for more information and useful content.
The Grafham Water Community First Responder Scheme
I write to say a massive thank you for the recent support and funding for the Grafham Water Community First Responder Scheme, which is entirely dependent on financial donations to be operational.
In particular, The Grafham Water Art Group who have donated the proceeds of their annual art exhibition for the last four years and the Kimbolton Rotary Club who have recently made a significant donation that will enable the unit to concurrently deploy and potentially expand.
For those less familiar with the work of the Grafham Water Community First Responder Scheme it is made up of volunteers who, within the community in which they live or work, have been trained to attend emergency calls received by the East of England Ambulance NHS Trust and provide ‘first aid’ until an emergency ambulance arrives. They are tasked and deployed through the Ambulance Service Emergency Operations Centre.
The concept behind the scheme is a simple one; local people with the appropriate training and equipment can get to local emergencies quickly because they are just around the corner. Time in responding is a very important factor and ambulances can’t be everywhere at once.
Sudden cardiac arrest claims around 150,000 lives each year within the United Kingdom, with survival rates being around 3 - 5% outside of a hospital setting. If a person’s heart has stopped due to an accident or heart attack and is in a rhythm called ventricular fibrillation, the only way to get the heart into a more regular sustaining beat is to pass an electrical charge through the heart muscle. The first eight minutes are the most vital for the collapsed person and if first aid and a defibrillator are on hand, then the chance of survival will increase considerably.
In addition, community awareness training has been provided on several occasions, to promote familiarity and demystify the use of defibrillators, which have been widely distributed amongst the villages and sited in prominent places but with little training to accompany their deployment.
Since being operationally viable, the Grafham Water Community First Responder Scheme have attended a variety of Incidents, these include three heart attacks or suspected heart attacks, four strokes or suspected strokes, five falls (elderly patients) one of which resulted in a ‘long lie’ and protracted hospital tests and treatments, four incidents of chronic illness or post operational deterioration, one unconscious patient and one epileptic seizure
The villages of Perry and Great Staughton are the two epicentres of the Grafham Water Community First Responder Scheme, consequently 62.5% of the response deployments have been in those locations.
However, they also frequently attended all manner of alerts in neighbouring villages, due to the availability or arrival time of the nearest ambulance medical resource and on nearly all occasions, arrival was ahead of the dispatched ambulance crew.
The most recent donations will make a significant difference and enable the maintenance replacement of defibrillator batteries and the acquisition on a new ambulance deployment (NMA phone) application, allowing us to invoke a second operational call sign, concurrently deploy more than one first responder team and potentially expand the unit.
These donations have come at a critical time when other sources of funding, such as a donation from Perry Parish Council under the Section 137 of the Local Government Act 1072, has been withdrawn. We are very grateful.
For more information about the Grafham Water Community First Responder Scheme please contact Richard Winser via E Mail – kingfisher.10@btinternet. com.
As any Sunday magazine supplement will show, fashion is very odd. It’s impossible to keep up with, and frankly the sort of person who’ll sneer at you for wearing the wrong shade of brown (tan is so last month) isn’t worth trying to impress. Likewise, conceptions of coolness and sexiness are constantly evolving. And it’s very rare to find someone who has both. Tom Cruise is cool, but he’s probably not sexy. Kilroy is the sexiest man on TV, obviously, but he’s never been cool. Apart from the Fonz, there’s only one man who’s universally regarded as both sexy and cool, and that’s Elvis.
Yes, Elvis Costello is the epitome of cool sexuality. Only joking, I’m obviously talking about Elvis Presley. I’ve nothing against Mr Macmanus, although I do wonder if he’s reconsidered his lyric “and I would rather be anywhere else but here today” since his appalling 2003 cameo in Frasier.
Such a colossal figure (and that’s not a fat joke, read on) has understandably engendered many conflicting opinions. I visited Graceland earlier this year, and am therefore an actual expert on all things Elvis.
A traditional observation, made by people who don’t really know what they’re talking about (unlike me) is that all Elvis did was sing black music, and because he was handsome and wholesome (not to mention white) he got famous unfairly. If you listen to early folk and blues recordings, yes there are similarities, but that’s like saying Beethoven ripped off Bach. Elvis’ music is unique, and to label him as nothing but an appropriator is grossly unfair, albeit fashionable.
His talent for reinventing himself is only matched by Frankie Howerd’s (and this isn’t a joke, Frankie managed to make himself attractive to at least three distinct generations of comedy audiences). While his manager’s idea to concentrate on films for a huge part of the 60s may have lacked artistic integrity, it did sow the seeds for the astonishing 1968 comeback special. If Elvis hadn’t been away from the live circuit for so long, that show’s raw energy would have been seriously diluted. And the films aren’t bad at all, great Sunday afternoon cocktail fare.
Talk for too long about Elvis and the village bore will appear, to chortlingly tell you that Elvis, wait for it, got really fat. OK, the drink, prescription drugs and interesting diet may not have done him any favours, but no way did he get as big as people think. Because he was such a phenomenally good-looking young man, his weight gain has been magnified in the popular fatshaming consciousness to cartoon size.
And incidentally, I’m not going to discuss what makes women cool or sexy, probably because that will be illegal by the time you read this.
Two final things, Graceland is a lot smaller than you’d imagine, and if you’re ever discussing Elvis with Memphis residents, avoid the phrase “child bride”. Trust me, the atmosphere turns pretty chilly.
Elivs was cool. Elvis was sexy. Elvis was the King.
Eugene Smith https://eugenesmithwriting.com
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.
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I’ve seen this series of cosy mystery books (this is the eleventh) around for a few years now but hadn’t got round to trying one for myself. What a mistake that was! As soon as I started reading, I knew I was going to enjoy it. Don’t you just love it when a book makes you feel that?
While the author is well into this series, you don’t have to start at the beginning (although I always recommend you do) as each story is a standalone. Also, the author has provided a helpful, and short, list of characters who appear regularly in the Inspector de Silva Mysteries. Here none of these characters appeared, as Shanti de Silva and his wife, Jane, were on holiday, but they were referred to so the short bios of each were useful.
Shanti and Jane have gone on holiday to Galle, Ceylon in the autumn of 1940 and stay at a hotel called Cinnamon Lodge. Naturally, the other guests provide a super cast of characters.
When Shanti goes out for a late-night walk, he is warned a leopard has been seen nearby and then one of the night watchmen is killed by an animal. Shortly after, a mysterious illness strikes celebrity Elodie Renaud, and her entourage, who are staying in one of the guest bungalows down. Then the charming Helen Morris is reported missing and despite searches, no trace of her is found.
Now, while you can take a police officer on holiday, you can’t take the police officer out of the, er, police officer, and Shanti can’t help but make some discreet investigations. None of which goes down well with the local police chief.
This was a delight to read. Beautifully paced, I enjoyed watching the mystery unravel as de Silva worked his way to the final whodunit. I’m sure readers of Marple and Poirot will love this series, as will anyone who enjoys a well-told tale.
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 www.georgiarosebooks.com.
Monthly Heating Oil Price Update: Sponsored by BoilerJuice
Price update
Since our last update, prices have been trending downwards, reaching a one year low point mid August.
Why have prices dropped?
Record U.S. Oil Production:
The U.S. has ramped up oil production to unprecedented levels, hitting a remarkable 13.4 million barrels of crude oil daily. This surge in supply has driven down prices across the board, and since kerosene prices are closely tied to crude oil, they’ve followed the same downward trend. If you would like to be kept up to date, sign up to our weekly prices alerts, visit us at BoilerJuice.com
What’s next?
The global oil market is a delicate balance, and while we’re seeing lower prices now, two major factors could disrupt summer stability in a flash:
• Tensions in the Middle East: The middle East is currently a hotspot for geopolitical tension. Any escalation in conflict there could send shockwaves through global oil supply chains, causing prices to become more volatile.
• Economic Uncertainty in China: China’s economy is slowing down, which could reduce its demand for oil and help keep prices low.
Our recommendations:
• Summer Top-Up: Consider a small summer top-up to hedge against potential price increases as demand rises towards winter. This also allows you to save room for another order if the price drops further.
• Avoid Peak Periods: Always plan ahead, avoid needing fuel at the last minute such as Christmas or during an intense cold snap, you risk over paying or worse you may run out!
• Payment Plans: Explore our Payment Plan and Connected Service options to spread heating costs over the year.
For more detailed information and to explore our services, visit BoilerJuice.com.
Proudly sponsored by BoilerJuice in association with The Village Bystander.
All funds raised from our men’s health event will benefit St Neots Man Cave.
St Neots Golf Club
Crosshall Road St Neots PE19 7GE
9th October 2024 7:30pm
Discover the secrets to a happy and healthy life at our informative and engaging event focused on men's health and wellbeing.
We encourage both men and women to come along, we all need to learn more about men’s health.
This evening will feature insights and practical advice from two distinguished speakers:
Dr Rob Howlett. MA, MB, BChir, DRCOG, MRCGP, PG Dip, Cardiology BSE
Accredited in Echocardiology who is a leading expert in men’s health and a former Master Chef contestant.
Justin Leigh
Mental Health
Heart Health
Testosterone Diabetes
Prostate Health and Testing
A champion of men’s mental health and wellbeing, Justin Leigh is a motivational speaker who will inspire and educate on the importance of mental health.
Follow us on social media and find further details about previous and upcoming events!
purplehorizons.co.uk
purplehorizons2019
purplehorizons2019@icloud.com
price per £15person: or £25 for two tickets!
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.
For more information please contact: Jane Phone: 01480 812598
Email: jane@funwithsanta.co.uk
What Are We Waiting For
Paul Kinally from Peter Lane & Partners in Kimbolton finds grounds for optimism for the Autumn property market following the General Election.
Hush, don’t mention green shoots. Those two words are guaranteed to put the mockers on just about anything. However - whisper it quietly we must - there is a stirring in the property market. After what seems like forever more properties are becoming available, giving buyers a greater choice and putting some fun back into house-hunting.
It’s far too early for the newly elected government to take the credit, but the general election has enabled us to cross one item off the long list of things people are waiting for before they buy and sell property.
There always seems to be something on the list. Now it could be the end of the summer holidays, the US general election or Christmas. These events may have varying degrees of impact on the property market through influencing buyer and seller behaviour. Another thing buyers may be waiting for is a reduction in mortgage interest rates which, on current expectations, could be this month or next. But with more property becoming available and some confidence returning there is a real chance the property market will shake off the lethargy of the past few years. It may even have done so already.
Over the longer term the new government will have to fulfil its pre-election housing promises. The Labour Party has pledged to build 1.5 million homes over five years, partly by streamlining the planning process and recruiting 300 additional planning officers. If these promises are kept they could significantly impact the property market, potentially further increasing supply and making home purchase more affordable. The new minister of housing, Angela Rayner, is spearheading this bold initiative. Rayner is the twenty-second Minister of Housing in the past twenty years. Labour are making housing a pivotal part of the country’s growth strategy. Finally, someone seems to have read the memo.
Let’s hope we will get the homes we’ve been promised. But, in the meanwhile, let’s stop waiting and realise something all good estate agents know: that the best time to buy and sell property is when the buyer and the seller are ready, willing and able. There really is no better time.
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
Book an end of season sweep –your chimney & liner will benefit from clean drying over the summer.
Valuation, collection and auction of individual items, through to complete property and commercial clearances. SALE ENTRIES INVITED
Friday, Saturday & Monday between 8.30am and 5pm
Whitchurch Wines
THIS MONTH’s
TASTING:
Bobby Wallace, 10th September @ 7pm
This month, we are pleased to welcome Bobby Wallace to the Tasting Room over from South Africa, who will be taking us through his range of wines from Elgin.
To reserve your place and for more information, please email jeff@whitchurchwines.shop
WHAT’s on in August?
10th Bobby Wallace Tasting, 7pm. 14th - Pop-Up Wine Bar, 6pm-8pm
28th Pop-Up Wine Bar, 6pm-8pm
For enquiries, email jeff@whitchurchwines.shop
21 High St, Kimbolton.
WHO ARE WE?
Your local wine shop. We are a small, family-run business. My father-in-law, David, opens up on a Wednesday, then it is yours truly from Wednesday after 4.30pm until we close the door for the week on Saturday. My wife Heather also helps out and you my even find one of our offspring stacking a shelf or two occasionally!
New In:
Favela Beer. A refreshing lager from Brazil highly recommended!
Why not try one of our pop-ups this month? We have ones on the following dates:
Saturday 14th August 6-8pm
Saturday 28th August 6-8pm
If you want any more information, please get in touch.
The ever-popular talk about the centres work and a flying display of 4-5 birds
Members £1.00 /£3:00 non members children welcome further information contact: tel_maggs2@225771mgl.co.uk Raffle/Garden centre voucher (£25)
Catworth Craft Fayre and St Leonard's Church Festival
Saturday 9th November 10.00 to 4.00
Lots of craft and food stalls in Catworth Village Hall and St Leonard's Church. There will also be an historical celebration of St Leonard's Church Catworth and the surrounding area. Home made refreshments will be served all day. Proceeds to St Leonard's Church. Free entry.
St. Andrew’s Church Fete
KEYSOE VILLAGE HALL
BIG BREAKFAST
September 21st
9am - 11am
Full English - £7.00
Small English - £4.50
Tea & coffee included No need to Book JUST TURN UP
MacMillan Coffee Morning
Friday 20th September 2024 10.30 - 12.30pm
We will be holding a coffee morning at Catworth Village Hall on Friday 20th September to raise money for MacMillan. Please join us for coffee and cake, catch up with friends and meet new ones. We will have the usual produce bring and buy table as well as a raffle (any donations for both appreciated). Please message myself or Libby Maitland if you are able to bake a cake or would be able to help on the day. Look forward to seeing you all there.
Donations can be dropped at the hall Thursday evening 5 - 6 pm or from 9am Friday morning.
Bedfordshire Festival of Autumn Walks 2024
Ahead of the Festival running 7th – 15th September we would like to let you know of some of the really exciting things we will have on offer.
This year we have decided to go bigger and bolder and have reached out beyond the 4 groups that make up the Bedfordshire Area.
Firstly, we have engaged with local Ramblers Groups that border Bedfordshire. As Ramblers, I am sure many of us enjoy a day out across the county border – so let’s invite local groups into Bedfordshire to share our beautiful country. So far, we have commitment from Huntingdon Ramblers, Wellingborough Ramblers and the Stag Walkers, a Hertfordshire Rambling group aimed at the 20,30,40’s. We also have a walk offered by the Northampton Shamblers.
Thinking outside the box, local interest walks always get a good turn out and so we are delighted to share that on Friday 13th we have a Ghost Walk being run but our great friend and original Beds Walks Fest organiser Barry Ingram – come if you dare! We also have guided walks around our Bedford Victorian Cemetery, the first looking at interesting names and the second on the beautiful variety of trees that call the cemetery home. There are also two history walks being run in Turvey by the Turvey History Society. In addition, there will be a history walk around Luton and a Pre-history walk in the surrounding hills. We are also delighted to have a nature walk in the Warden and Galley hills run by the Chiltern Trust.
What would a festival be without a training course? So, we are delighted to announce the return of a map reading course, being run as part of the festival.
Feeling a bit more adventurous? Why not try the 40 miles Greensand Ridge Challenge hosted over a weekend or too much like hard work? Then maybe a gentle stroll along the River Great Ouse and a gentle sail back on the John Bunyan Boat may be just up your street, sorry river!
I want something different - I hear you say! Then hopefully our Bat Walk will interest you! Our 9 days of walks will vary from a half mile leisurely stroll to a 21mile march across the Greensand Ridge, so hopefully there’s something for everyone.
The Bedfordshire Walking Festival 2024 (7th – 15th September) will be so much more than just walking. Come and find out.
For more information and the full program go to: www.bedswalkfest.co.uk/walks or check out our dedicated Facebook page Bedfordshire Festival of Autumn walks.
We look forward to meeting you.
KIMBOLTON MEDICAL CENTRE
A huge thank you to the organisers of Miss Franks’ Jumble Sale and the Kimbolton Trust for their generous donations which has enabled us to purchase a much needed new vaccine fridge for the surgery.
Last month we had over 100 appointments that patients did not attend. Please let us know as soon as you can if you need to cancel your appointment.
New Blood Pressure Machine
We now have a new blood pressure machine available in our reception area. Please feel free to pop in and check your blood pressure. Our reception team will be more than happy to assist you if needed.
Connect with us on Facebook
Did you know that we are on social media? Follow our Facebook page to stay updated with the latest health tips, service updates and important announcements.
The Practice will be closed on the following afternoons for protected learning: Thursday 19th September 2024 Tuesday 22nd October 2024 Wednesday 20th November 2024
What’s on in Kimbolton in September
Sunday 1st 3pm onwards Kim Jam. New Sun Inn
Monday 2nd
Tuesday 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
4.15 - 5.15pm Rainbows. Scout Hut 5.30 - 6.45pm Brownies. Scout Hut
Wednesday 4th 10-12pm Bridge Club. Mandeville Hall 2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall
Thursday 5th 11-12pm Fitness Class. Scout Hut 12pm Senior Lunch Club 2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall 4.30-5.45pm Beavers. Scout Hut
Friday 6th 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall
7- 8.30pm Guides. Scout Hut 7.30pm Bingo. Mandeville Hall
Monday 9th 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall 10-12pm Fitness Class. Mandeville Hall 6-7.30pm Cubs. Scout Hut
Tuesday 10th 4.15 - 5.15pm Rainbows. Scout Hut 5.30 - 6.45pm Brownies. Scout Hut
Wednesday 11th 10-12pm Bridge Club. Mandeville Hall 2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall
Thursday 12th 11-12pm Fitness Class. Scout Hut 12pm Senior Lunch Club 2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall 4.30-5.45pm Beavers. Scout Hut
Friday 13th 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall
7- 8.30pm Guides. Scout Hut 7-9pm Wine Tasting with Bobby Wallace from SA. Whitchurch Wines
7-8.30pm Scouts. Scout Hut 8pm Quiz Night. New Sun Inn
Saturday 14th 6-8pm Pop Up Wine Bar. Whitchurch Wines
Monday 16th
Tuesday 17th
10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall 10-12pm Fitness Class. Mandeville Hall
4.15 - 5.15pm Rainbows. Scout Hut 5.30 - 6.45pm Brownies. Scout Hut
Wednesday 18th 10-12pm Bridge Club. Mandeville Hall 2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall
Thursday 19th 11-12pm Fitness Class. Scout Hut 12pm Senior Lunch Club
6-7.30pm Cubs. Scout Hut
7 - 8.30pm Guides. Scout Hut
Dance Class. Mandeville Hall 4.30-5.45pm Beavers. Scout Hut 7-8.30pm Scouts. Scout Hut
Fri 20th 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall 7pm Community Cinema. Mandeville Hall
Monday 23rd 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall 10-12pm Fitness Class. Mandeville Hall 6-7.30pm Cubs. Scout Hut
Tuesday 24th
4.15 - 5.15pm Rainbows. Scout Hut 5.30 - 6.45pm Brownies. Scout Hut 7 - 8.30pm Guides. Scout Hut
Wednesday 25th 10-12pm Bridge Club. Mandeville Hall 2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall
Thursday 26th 11-12pm Fitness Class. Scout Hut 12pm Senior Lunch Club 2-7.30pm Dance Class. Mandeville Hall 4.30-5.45pm Beavers. Scout Hut
Friday 27th 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall
7-8.30pm Scouts. Scout Hut 7pm Parish Council Meeting. Y & Community Hall 8pm Quiz Night. New Sun Inn
Saturday 28th 6-8pm Pop Up Wine Bar. Whitchurch Wines
Monday 30th 10-12pm Fitness Class. Mandeville Hall 10-12.30pm Bytes Cafe. Youth & Community Hall 6-7.30pm Cubs. 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 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.
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 15th 9.00am Parish Communion
ST. ANDREW’S, GREAT STAUGHTON
Sun 1st 8.00am BCP Holy Communion
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 Benefice Communion
Sun 8th 9.00am Parish Communion
Sun 15th 3.00pm Creative Communion
Sun 22nd 9.00am Parish Communion
Sat 28th 6.00pm Harvest Festival
Sun 29th 6.00pm Benefice Evensong
Canine Corner - What growling really means……. and what you should do about it.
Dogs carry with them an amazing set of weapons- those teeth are capable of inflicting real damage if the need arises. Despite this, the occurrence of severe injury caused by dogs is relatively infrequent. This is because dogs don’t really want to use those teeth, and generally only do so as a means of last resort. From an evolutionary perspective, a species that gets into regular physical conflict risks injury- if you bite there is a high chance that you will be bitten back. So dogs have evolved a wonderfully complex set of signals to help them communicate with each other and avoid conflict. If you watch videos of dogs interacting, you will see communication using head, body and tail movements. If you look more closely you will see the fine intricacies of communication- eye contact, ear movements, yawns and tongue flicks, tense or relaxed muscles around the face and body, and the position and stance of the body relative to the other dog. Dogs communicate all the time without a single word spoken. Problems arise because our dogs are communicating with us as they would with another dog, but as humans (who are mostly verbal creatures) we rarely notice any of it.
We do, however, take notice when our dog growls. A growl usually occurs when a dog has been communicating using body language “I don’t like what you are doing, I’m anxious, please stop” but this has been ignored. As stress levels increase, the dog is pushed to use the growl as a warning “I really don’t like what you are doing, I’m not happy about this situation but I don’t want to bite you”. So a growl is a huge warning from the dog that he is unhappy but he is trying to avoid having to bite you. He is giving you the chance to change your behaviour and de-escalate the situation. If you ignore a growling dog and continue to cause him stress, the only options the dog has left are a warning snap or an actual bite.
So what should you do if your dog growls at you or another dog? 1. Most importantly- do not punish him! Dogs who are routinely punished for growling are far more likely to bite ‘out of the blue’ as they have learnt that they will be told off for growling so they suppress this behaviour but the underlying anxiety around the situation still persists. In addition, punishing a dog for growling actually increases the anxiety he feels in that situation, making defensive behaviour more likely. 2. Listen to him and take action. Your dog is telling you that he is unhappy and stressed and as his owner it is your responsibility to protect him from this. If he is growling at you- stop what you are doing. If he is growling at someone else or another dog, remove him from the situation. Aggression is a sign that a dog is not coping. Going forward, either avoid that situation again or carefully teach your dog to cope and be confident in that situation (you may need the help of a behaviourist for this). So if your dog growls at visiting children- he is not coping and he is trying to communicate this. Put him in another room where he feels safe. If he is tired and sleepy and he growls when you try to fuss him- stop and leave him alone. If he growls or snaps when the overly-friendly Labrador jumps on his headhe finds that dog too much to cope with and you need to help him out.
In social situations with other dogs or people, or at home, watch your dog’s behaviour, listen to him and be ready to take action if he is not coping. A growl is valuable communication and if your dog learns that he is listened to, this will help him feel more confident and you will certainly have a better dog-owner relationship.
September is a funny old month. It always feels like a fusion of sadness about the end of Summer and long evenings spent in the garden or out walking to beer gardens… juxtaposed with the excitement of new beginnings for the younger minds among us. Perhaps a new school year, a new apprenticeship, or venturing off to university. It’s also when the scuba diving and cricket seasons come to a close for the year. (Thank you for everything, James Anderson. England cricket will miss you.)
With that in mind, here are just a few of the positives to come out of this summer and a few things to look forward to.
The Paris Olympics were gripping. Team GB scooped 65 medals in total and I could spend hours watching BBC iPlayer clips of all the amazing athletes taking part. Special mention to Team GB’s Katharina Johnson-Thompson (heptathlon), Tom Daley (diving), Ellie Aldridge (kitesurfing), Isabelle Thorpe, Kate Shortman (both synchronised swimming), Toby Roberts (climbing) and Emily Campbell (weightlifting). There’re usually a few sports that find themselves enjoying a huge new craze after big tournaments, so a plethora of opportunities are bound to await young and not-so-young fitness enthusiasts. Break-dancing anyone?
The Paralympics kicked off in Paris just this week and some names to look out for are: Iona Winnifrith – at 11 years old, she’s the youngest swimmer in the 2024 Paralympics and already boasts the impressive tally of two European titles this year; Hollie Arnold – a giant in the world of javelin with six straight World titles; Hannah Cockcroft (para athletics); Ellie Challis; Matt Bush (Taekwondo); Rachel Choong (badminton); Funmi Oduwaiye (para athletics); David Smith (Boccia); Claire Taggart (Boccia) and Thomas Young (para athletics).
Northern Lights and a Perseid meteor shower. Back in May, the world’s Aurora Borealis fans were treated to one or two nights of dazzling colourful displays as the skies lit up. Then followed the mid-August meteor showers alongside the Northern Lights. Stunning photos were captured of the skies dancing with yet more illuminating displays of nature at its very best. The Perseid meteor shower is associated with debris left by Comet Swift-Tuttle, which orbits the sun once every 133 years.
BANKSY. What a delight it was to see news of the popular street artist’s work again! Nine consecutive days of animal-themed art were intended to “cheer up the public” according to the artist’s social media page. In chronological order of appearance, the images included: a mountain goat, elephants, monkeys, a wolf, pelicans, a cat, piranhas, a rhinoceros and finally a gorilla with a sea lion and birds on the shutters of London Zoo.
Mark Steel’s in Town – one of the best comedy radio shows/podcasts out there returned for a 13th series, featuring crowds in Margate; Malvern; East Grinstead; Stoke on Trent; Nether Edge, Sheffield; and Coleraine, Northern Ireland all witnessing the comedian roasting their hometowns. Thoroughly entertaining and very educational. Highly recommend the series 12 episode on Paris, if we’re staying on geographical/sporting topic. The pièce de résistance? He’s fluent in French and does the full show in both English and French, discussing his time in Paris. I don’t know about you but I wouldn’t know the translation for ‘beetroot’ off the top of my head while in a grocery store.
On a more personal happy note, I’m finally booked in for carpal tunnel release surgery. Now off to listen to some Stacey Kent, swig some Bordeaux and perhaps practise some Français. Can someone help open the bottle, s’il vous plait?
Sally Gower
Baby and Toddler 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
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, lindaallendance@btinternet.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
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
Huntingdon Grafham Water Lions Club Lion Bernard Dable 01480 810704, 07969 207227
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
Angela Fox, 01480 861264
Anthony Withers, 01480 861224. Carpet Bowls, Spaldwick
Carpet Bowls, Ellington
Table Tennis Club - Melchbourne
Andrew Vickers, 01480 891201
Beryl North, 01480 471146
Peter Wilkinson peteathillands@gmail.com, 07792 056 157 Tennis Club, Kimbolton
Roy Butler, 01480 861007 Tennis Club, Gt Staughton
Grafham Tang Sou Dao Club
Great Staughton Golf Society
Little Staughton keep fit
MVH Pilates - Melchbourne
MVH Tai Chi - Melchbourne
Nicole Yates, 01480 860616
Steven Treadaway 01480 812433, info@cambstangsoudao.co.uk
Derek Fitzgibbon, 01480 861234
Chris Clarke, 07739184942
Penny Hales penny@tightassets.co.uk
Rob Poyton simplyflow@outlook.com PE28 Kickboxing, Grafham Village Hall
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 September
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 September
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 September
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.
70 To advertise in Village Bystander please call Julie on 07928 778457
Time to light the res, decorate the trees, mull the wine, and roast the turkey; Christmas is coming to town!
Jingle all the way to your local this year - from family get togethers to work functions or just a few drinks with some mates, we’ve got everything you need to make a festive celebration to remember!
From buffets to three course feasts with plenty of options available, our chefs will be busy preparing fresh, festive menus packed full of Christmas favourites to suit all your cravings.
Book your Christmas party before the end of October and every member of your party will receive a free glass of Prosecco on arrival!
Scan the QR code to nd out more about our Christmas offers!
We’re hiring! Email your CV to Pedro at hello@wheatsheaf-perry.co.uk and join our team!
The Wheatsheaf – West Perry, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, PE28 0BX Email: hello@wheatsheaf-perry.co.uk - Phone: 01480 810253
Please mention Village Bystander when responding to adverts
• Handsome town house, recently fully renovated, remodelled and refitted.
• Over 2,200 sq. ft. of characterful accommodation arranged over three floors.
• Two separate reception rooms, four double bedrooms and three bath/shower rooms.
• Finely crafted kitchen/breakfast room with bespoke cabinets, granite counters and quality integrated appliances.
• Welcoming, tiled through reception hall with door opening onto the beautifully private south-facing courtyard.
• Perfectly positioned for local schools and facilities and for access to major road and rail links.
