VILLAGER The
Issue 41 - October 2012
and Town Life
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Bringing local business to local people in and around St Neots, Buckden, Brampton, Cambourne, ur Godmanchester and surrounding villages Yo EE y FRco1 p
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In this Issue
VILLAGER The
Issue 41 - October 2012
and Town Life
10
£25
Michelle’s Place
Prize Crossword See Inside
At The Queen’s Head
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Bringing local business to local people in and around St Neots, Buckden, Brampton, Cambourne, ur Godmanchester and surrounding villages Yo EE y FRco1 p
Advertising Sales Christa Hallam - Tel: 07868 369257 Christa@villagermag.com Additional Editorial Tony Larkins, Peter Ibbett, Fiona McLeman, Debbie Singh-Bhatti, Sarah Davey, Solange Hando, Pippa Greenwoodand James Baggott
Great Prize Up For Grabs
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Que Sera
Birthday Celebrations
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Front Cover Photo: Jeffery Williams Design and Artwork Design 9 - Tel 07762 969460 Publishers Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 261122 Email: nigel@villagermag.com
VILLAGER The
and Town Life
Disclaimer
Competition Page
All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however, Villager Publications Ltd can not take any responsibility for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the editorial. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher.
Winter Wardrobe Blues..........................................................................................................4 Pumpkin Power........................................................................................................................6 Discover the Canal du Midi..................................................................................................8 Hinchinbrooke Bösendorfer Piano Concerts...............................................................14 Local Ladies Mean Business.................................................................................................7 National Police Aid Convoys..............................................................................................18 Paul Kitson Hip Hop Master Class....................................................................................22 Acupuncture for Well Being...............................................................................................24 Peony Hair Design.................................................................................................................25 Divorce Q&A............................................................................................................................27 Pensions....................................................................................................................................29 Enjoy Some Tulip Mania......................................................................................................34 Lawn Care.................................................................................................................................37 Animal Stories.........................................................................................................................38 Children’s Page.......................................................................................................................41 Mitsubishi Outlander...........................................................................................................43 Hunts Phil.................................................................................................................................44 Seasonal Delights..................................................................................................................47 Puzzle Page..............................................................................................................................48 St Neots Coffee Pot Memory Cafe...................................................................................53 Bean Source.............................................................................................................................56 What’s On.................................................................................................................................58 Firework Safety and Etiquette..........................................................................................62
16,000 copies delivered free of charge to all homes in the following areas: Hinchingbrooke, Hinchingbrooke Park, Brampton, Buckden, Offord Cluny, Offord D’arcy, Godmanchester, Hemingford Abbots and Hemingford Grey, Cambourne, Chawston, Croxton, Duloe, Graveley, Great Paxton, Hail Weston, Honeydon, Little Barford, Little Paxton, Roxton, Southoe, Staploe, Tempsford, Toseland, Upper Staploe, Wintringham, Wyboston, Yelling. (Further bulk drops are made to local shops and busineses in Huntingdon, St Neots, Eaton Ford, Eaton Socon and Eynesbury.)
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Winter wardrobe blues
OCTOBER
Well, the last flickers of the Indian summer have finally faded, and bright October days can be chilly, so it’s time to put the shorts and sandals and old tour t-shirts away for a few months and dig out the winter clothes. Shouldn’t need to buy anything new: I have plenty of stuff left over from previous years. Which is handy as times are tight, and the more I waste on clothes means the less I can waste on beer. But anyway, who needs to spend a fortune on a new wardrobe every season? Let’s start by testing that ancient proposition: the cat sat on the mat. No it didn’t. The cat sat on my hat, actually. In fact it’s nested in it. It’s now a dense rug of cat-hair and utterly irredeemable, so I shall start collating the season’s wardrobe by binning the beanie and putting a new one on the shopping list. Next, gloves. I don’t wear gloves often these days. I only ever used them for snowballing, and at my advanced age I don’t have to do that anymore. Still, you need a pair against the unlikely eventuality of, say, having to dig the car out of a snowdrift. So it’s now that I discover that I have many gloves, but none of them match. So, add new gloves to the list. Now obviously you need a nice woolly jumper for the winter, and as it happens I have one. I hate it. I hate all jumpers. They’re cumbersome things, make it impossible to move freely, and the moment you make the transition from freezing street to overheated department store or pub or library you start sweating like an overworked horse. So no new jumper this year. On the other
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hand, I don’t want to freeze every time I nip out for a paper. I know I haven’t worn a vest for, oh, 40 years. I gave them up when I was a teenager as an act of unobtrusive rebellion. But they do keep you warm. OK, some vests, then. I shouldn’t need a new coat, though. I’ve had the same coat for years and years. It’s lovely and toastie and in excellent nick. Cost me a few bob, but it’s been worth it. Rather an odd assortment of buttons by now, mind, but nobody’s ever commented on it. Hang on, though: if I’m going to be wearing a vest from now on, my warm old coat might be a bit too warm. Lots of thin layers, that’s what they recommend nowadays. Better look for a slightly lighter one, then. I’m definitely all right for dog-walking shoes, though, with a choice of hiking boots or wellies for seasonal snow, slush, or mud. Uh-oh... the boots are fine, but there’s a deficit in the sock department. I like my boots roomy, so I can wear nice thick socks to cuddle my toes. But looking at my rather sad assortment of thermals, I see they’ve all mysteriously developed holes. In olden days my mum would have darned these, but I haven’t seen a darning mushroom in years and even if I had, I wouldn’t know what to do with it. So it’s out with the old, and off to Edinburgh Woollen Mills for the new. Hang on – that’s new beanie, gloves, vests, coat, and walking socks. This October’s clothes-shop is beginning to look expensive. Think I’ll stay indoors until the January sales...
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Pumpkin Power
By Sarah Davey
How to carve a perfect Halloween lantern Our American cousins know how to celebrate Halloween with style. One of the trademark symbols you’ll see outside almost every house at this time of year is a huge carved pumpkin, or Jack-o-lantern as they’re known across the pond. There’s a knack to carving a great pumpkin lantern. If you want yours to be the envy of all your neighbours this October, follow our stepby-step guide. First choose the right pumpkin. Firm and smooth is best for beginners. Advanced or creative types might like a more gnarled and warty specimen. Make sure there are no soft spots and that the stalk is nice and firm. Most importantly, make sure it sits up without rolling over, or your lantern will be a failure! If you have to buy your pumpkin in advance, store it in a cool dry place, like the garage, to help keep it fresh. The best carved pumpkins require good tools. You can buy children’s pumpkin carving sets which work reasonably well for simple designs. However if you’re after something showy you’ll need a sharp kitchen knife with a long blade, a smaller paring knife and possibly a craft knife. A bradawl is useful too. These tools are adult-only for obvious reasons. An ice cream scoop or large spoon is great for scooping out the flesh. Don’t forget to lay
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down lots of newspaper or plastic sheeting because pumpkin carving is a messy business. Plan your design before you start. Draw a circle roughly the same size as the area you want to carve and get your children to help. If you’re stuck there are some great free templates available on the internet. Tape your design on to the pumpkin then use a cocktail stick to push through the paper to mark out the design. Then cut it out. You can carve other veg, like turnips, though it’s more difficult to hollow them out. You can use cocktail sticks to fasten other small vegetables, like courgettes, carrots and tiny squashes to your lantern for decoration. With a bit of ingenuity you can give your pumpkin face ears or horns. Broccoli and cauliflower florets can make funky hair. The only limit is your imagination. The pumpkins in the photo were carved by a friend’s husband. He hollowed out and carved a little pomegranate for his pumpkin monster to chomp on! Once you’ve created your masterpiece soak it in water for an hour. Then pop it on your doorstep for everyone to admire. If you’re worried about leaving a lit candle inside, try an electric tea light. They flicker like the real thing but are totally safe. Happy Halloween!
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Poster.pdf
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Discover the Canal du Midi
in the South of France In 1996, the Canal du Midi became the first canal in the world to receive World Heritage status, as one of the ‘greatest engineering feats of modern times’ and ‘outstanding landscape fashioned by man’. Designed to link the Atlantic to the Mediterranean across south west France, it had been planned since Roman times but work did not start until 1667, taking 14 years and 15,000 people to complete. Sadly, the engineer Pierre Paul Riquet passed away just months before the royal barge opened the first stretch in his native town of Béziers, in 1681. From Toulouse, where it joins the Canal de Garonne, to the vast Etang de Thau on the Mediterranean, the 245 km long waterway is dotted with over 300 supporting structures, including bridges, locks and canal aqueducts invented by Riquet to cross streams and rivers. The canal tunnel in Malpas was also a world’s first, completed in secret in just a week before the authorities had a chance to find out. They had refused permission on safety grounds. The tunnel remains one of the highlights along the route, rivalled only by Fonserannes, a steep staircase of seven locks and now a listed monument. For 200 years or so, the canal brought wealth to the region, encouraging agriculture, trade and related business, from boat yards to inns. It was the cheapest way to transport people and goods since a single barge could carry the equivalent of 125 ox-driven carts. Having turned down the canal because of the cost, the town of Carcassonne soon realised its mistake and agreed eventually to finance a diversion. Inevitably, the advent of the railway brought commercial trade to an end but right across Languedoc, the Canal du Midi is alive and well, an integral part of the landscape, meandering past lock-keepers’ cottages, hill top castles and red-roofed villages nestling among vineyards and sunflower fields. Fed by reservoirs from the Black Mountain, or foothills of the central range, shaded by plane trees, pines and cypresses which stabilise the banks and preserve moisture, it’s a peaceful haven for holiday barges, yachts and cruisers. Fishermen doze on the banks, swans and ducks nest in the reeds and the old tow path doubles up as a cycling and walking trail. For those who cruise along the canal, there is
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plenty of excitement, working the locks, ducking under low bridges, heading into the tunnel, and plenty to see, from Marseillan and the nearby oyster beds to the medieval walled town of Carcassonne, the largest in Europe, or Toulouse, the vibrant ‘pink city’ basking on the banks of the Garonne. There are picturesque harbours along the way, Castelnaudary, Le Somail, Capestang, wine tasting cellars, flower-draped inns, nature reserves, home to peacock butterflies and 200 species of birds, and glistening lagoons where flamingos feed among the islands. In Port Lauragais, the Pierre Paul Riquet Centre is dedicated to the history of the canal while at the nearby Seuil de Naurouze, the highest point on the route and the watershed between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, an obelisk has been erected in Riquet’s honour. There is no better place to celebrate this local genius, an engineer with amazing vision but also a caring man who introduced sick pay and rest days for his workers, centuries ahead of his time.
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Shuttleworth C O L L E C T I O N
COLD WAR
FAST–JET TRIBUTE AIR SHOW
Meet former East German MiG & Sukhoi pilots pilots
Sunday 7th October 2012
FEATURING THE RETURN TO THE SKIES OF THE RECORD BREAKING
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de Havilland DH88 Comet d
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Book Launch Hawker Hunter Vampire Gnat trio North American F-86 Sabre display
Tony Haig-Thomas welcome & valedictory speech & handover to Air Chief Marshal Sir John Allison Ret’d (Hangar 5 members only)
Fast-Jet air and ground crews should register for the reunion on 01767 627924 Public admissions online: £20 adult (£25 at the gate) Accompanied Children FREE up to 16yrs) Admission includes FREE entry to the Bird of Prey Centre, Swiss Garden & Jubliee Play Centre Shuttleworth Collection Old Warden Aerodrome Nr Biggleswade ggleswad swade Bedfordshire SG18 9E 9EP P
01767 627927 www.shuttleworth.org g
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Michelle’s Place at the Queen’s Head
BY PETER IBBETT
We are used to archaeologists revealing the past by gently peeling back the layers of history beneath our feet. Occasionally buildings can display their heritage as new owners strip back modern layers. Refurbishment at 46 Market Square, St. Neots revealed a nicely scripted ‘Michelle’s’ shop sign. The building was once the Queen’s Head inn (to match the Kings Head just over the way) and was one of the most important in the town with ‘an imposing sign with a half-length portrait of a queen, hung on an ornamental iron bracket’. In 1772 Nailorer Squire was landlord and it was owned in 1800 by John Day of the Priory Brewery. The building you see today is the result of rebuilding in the late 1840’s and had a series of tenants before being sold to the Eaton Socon Brewery in 1897. When the licence was given up in 1908 there had been seven tenants in six years and it had been selling 73 barrels of beer and 90 gallons of spirits a year. This end of the Square is the oldest part of one of the largest Market Areas in the country, called Market Street in the 17th Century when the town had a thriving corn trade. Many of the warehouses and corn shops that serviced the local economy ran down from the Square to the adjacent Hen Brook.
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Local eyebrows have been raised by the recent appearance of direction signs around the town (to encourage walkers and cyclists) referring to the centre of town as ‘Market Place’ rather than Market Square. In the latter part of the nineteenth century Market Street had become Market Place to distinguish it from the Market Square. A careful look above Michelle’s shop sign will reveal that she was to be found in Market Place. Hence our modern sign writers have applied the name for a small part of central St. Neots to the whole Square! If you have any information or photographs of this building please let the museum or pjibbett@aol.com know so we can add it to the archives.
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The Unforgettable Close Up and Cabaret Magic of Steve Dean Immerse yourselves and guests in the close up magic of Steve Dean or enjoy a Cabaret Show that includes mentalism and much more. Have you ever witnessed unexplainable events or illusions so convincing that they leave you fascinated & completely spellbound? This is Cabaret, close up mix and mingle and table magic at it’s very best.
Steve is a master of his craft and a member of the prestigious Magic Circle. He has had many letters of thanks and testimonials from people from all walks of life. From a small dinner party to performing on a British Cruise Liner this sort of entertainment is second to none and will give your guests unusual and fantastic entertainment that they can get involved in and will talk about for months to come. (Steve is a member of Equity with full public liability insurance).
Please phone or email for details
07719 261147 • 01767 260671 www.stevedeanmagic.co.uk email: stevedeanmagic@aol.com
C h r i s t m a s B o o k i n gs No w B e i n g Ta k e n
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We're launching
brand new developments near you! For further information and to register your interest visit www.kierhomes.co.uk
or call us today on
01767 642500 12
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Hinchingbrooke Bösendorfer
Piano Concerts
Series six of the Hinchingbrooke Bösendorfer Piano Concerts is almost here, bringing to Hinchingbrooke artists of the highest international standing and of a quality befitting the memory of former Huntingdon Grammar School Director of Music, Kenneth Brown, in whose honour the Bösendorfer grand piano was bought by the Old Huntingdonians Association (OHA). The concerts are being promoted by the OHA (former pupils of Huntingdon Grammar and Hinchingbrooke Schools) in conjunction with Hinchingbrooke School. OHA Chairman, Hilary Angell While said, ‘We are delighted to present this new season of exciting concerts and continue to enrich the musical life of Huntingdonshire and beyond’. These concerts will be on Fridays at 19.30 in The Performing Arts Centre, Hinchingbrooke Park Road, Huntingdon PE29 3BN. Friday 26 October 2012: Sarah Markham, classical saxophone: Paul Turner, piano. Following her prize-winning student years in the UK and USA, Sarah has established a highly successful career recording, broadcasting and concertizing both in Britain and abroad. Paul Turner, also an internationally prominent performer, makes a welcome return visit to delight us with his colourful and sensitive playing. Their eclectic programme will include music by Bach, Debussy, Gershwin and Shearing. Friday 30 November 2012 The Rautio Piano Trio - Jane Gordon, violin; Adi Tal, cello; Jan Rautio, piano. This young trio has already achieved spectacular success performing at major venues in Britain and abroad. Individually recipients of a number of prestigious awards, together they form a cohesive and impressive group. This will be an evening not to be missed! Their programme will include music by Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms.
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Friday 11 January 2013 Masayuki Tayama, piano. This outstandingly fine, passionate and warmly communicative pianist returns by popular request with a programme of music by Mozart, Chopin and Rachmaninoff. His several previous performances at Hinchingbrooke have earned him the highest accolades from audiences as have his appearances nationally and world-wide. Friday 22 February 2013 The North York Moors Festival Ensemble Min-Jin Kym, violin; Philip Dukes, viola; Jamie Walton, cello; Ian Brown, piano. We are very fortunate indeed to be able to host, once again, popular cellist Jamie Walton, this time bringing from his prestigious North York Moors Festival a new ensemble of distinguished musicians to play piano quartets by Mozart, Fauré and Schumann. Friday 22 March 2013 Marina Nadiradze, piano. Yet another musical feast offered by one of our all-time favourite artists! Following early successes in major international competitions, Marina has developed an enviable career worldwide with playing distinguished by fine artistic sensitivity, spectacular technical subtleties and, above all, generosity in communication. Her programme will include music by Mozart, Liszt and Schumann. Tickets: £10 adults, £8 groups 20+, £5 pupils and students up to 21 are available from Box Office: 01480 375678 (Monday to Friday 9.00 to 15.30)
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LOCAL LADIES MEAN BUSINESS
A DATE FOR YOUR DIARY Following the success of the Spring Event, Enterprising Ladies join forces again to show they mean business, with an Autumn Showcase & Shopping Evening. The venue for this event is The Gamlingay Eco Hub on Monday 15th October and is open to the public with free entry from 7pm to 10pm. Cafe, cakes and refreshments available. Around 30 local businesses will be represented, ranging from services such as publishing, accountancy, hat hire, interior design, to handmade jewellery and cosmetics, fingernail polishing, celebration rosettes, dainty cakes and sparkling party bags full of delectable sweets, along with balloon sculpting, complementary therapies and skin care.
Another chance for everyone to come and find out what the local ladies are up to, with new businesses showcasing with LLMB for the first time. It will also be a great opportunity to do some early Christmas Shopping, with many exhibitors selling their products. Alternatively, if you are a lady with a business and would like more information about LLMB, please contact Liz Day LLMB@mail.com Tel 07778 188924 More about the group can be seen at www. localladiesmeanbusiness.co.uk LLMB would like to thank The Villager for their support.
Autumn Crafts@Wood Green Saturday 13 & Sunday 14 October Wood Green Godmanchester Centre London Road nr. Godmanchester Cambridgeshire PE29 2NH
Designer Maker Arts Crafts Seasonal Foods and Drinks
Visit our Autumn Crafts at Wood Green. Whatever the weather, you can visit the indoor arena and sample and buy from our wide range of arts, craft and gift stalls where you might find anything from
open 10am - 4.30pm
jewellery and other accessories, handicrafts, hand
admission: ÂŁ2.50 concession: ÂŁ2 child 5 years and younger FREE
made cards, photography, candles, aromatherapy products, through to ceramics and wood turning.
FREE PARKING
Food and drink might include wine, real-food as well as hand-made chocolates and other confectionery
oakleighfairs.co.uk
I 0800 141 2823
OAK LE I G H SUPPORTING
supported by
MAY 2013
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National Police Aid Convoys
www.npac.co.uk
It’s been almost 20 years since NPAC was formed by its current chairman David Scott and his colleagues to collect and convey much needed humanitarian aid to the war stricken areas of the Balkans. David, a retired police inspector has gathered many volunteers along the way and makes no bones about the fact that he has shamelessly used his ‘Trust me I am a Police Officer….’ philosophy to make a difference to needy people throughout the world. 10’000 tons of donated goods including food, furniture and hospital equipment have since been delivered to the poor in Albania, Zambia, Ghana, Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia, Kosovo, Romania, Bulgaria, Russia, Pakistan, India, Hungary, Rwanda, Western Samoa, Nicaragua, Kenya and Gambia as well as other desperately poor people all over Europe. NPAC makes a point of guaranteeing that its donated goods normally sent in borrowed or sponsored vehicles and containers are not interfered with and reach their intended destinations intact simply because they understand the importance of supervision which clearly is of paramount importance to the charity. Volunteers today are by no means all police officers or indeed have police connections. “Our helpers include professionals, housewives, students and those who have retired or are unemployed” suggests charity secretary Wanda Adams. “Anyone is welcome to join us there is no age limit and if you feel you are able help us as a collector, packer, sorter, driver, administrator or telephone canvasser then contact us at enqs@ npac.org.uk or leave a telephone message on 01159390999.” Wanda cautions that”Whilst there is a great ‘feel good’ factor to volunteering there are no freebies when we travel and everyone pays there own way. The fact that nothing is taken out of the charity for travel or expenses is a fact that very few other charities can celebrate”. David Scott currently with 16 other volunteers in Zambia distributing much needed school and medical equipment is of the opinion that ‘Giving the needy a loaf of bread feeds them for today, teaching them to grow wheat feeds them for a lifetime”.
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“When we start a project” he states “we see it through to the end or at least until the ‘need’ becomes ‘want’ then we know we have done our job” NPAC wants to expand its interest throughout the UK and needs more storage and warehouse facilities to keep safe their increasing donations. It also needs more volunteers to help in these new locations and even more donations to fill them. Please look at our website www.npac.co.uk or telephone us on 01159390999 and learn about our projects, our forthcoming events and how you can volunteer to help us help others. We are urgently looking for warehouse/storage premises in the Cambridge and Huntingdon area for storing our donated Wheelchairs, Bicycles, Mopeds and trailers. Donated items will be repaired by a group of our retired helpers ready for their second life by those who desperately need them.
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Gorgeous! orgeous!
Soft leather boots from Jose Saenz. Just one of the stunning new arrivals at Allen Phillips. Come and revel in our latest range. 8 High Street, St Neots 01480 219187 Great shoes... ...great service To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
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PAUL KITSON
HIP HOP MASTER CLASSES Paul Kitson was born in Cambridge and like his older brother Graham raised in Gamlingay, by his parents Linda and Richard who still reside in the village. From an early age Paul was showing a powerful surge of creativity and artistic flare. The first evidence of this was joining a drawing and painting class at the age of 7 and producing work that was often mistaken for someone three-times his age. Paul then found an addiction to music and the world of arts through Peppercorns Music School, St Neots, run by Steve Muzolf, where he trained to play the keyboard and piano and perform on stage alongside his brother at the age of 8. Paul was and still is a keen athlete. Then and now striving always to be the best. From the age of twelve, after joining Hinchingbrooke School in Huntingdon he was to prove that this was an equal drive and outlet with his creativity on stage. Paul’s Nan was the person to introduce him to opera and old-time musical movies and once he saw the mass scale of performance and talent from his now on-screen idyll Gene-Kelly, he was hooked. Paul was introduced to dance through an exgirlfriend, which launched him into a world of passion, drive and endless training to make it to the top, of a very tough, but rewarding industry. Paul was awarded a three-year scholarship to train at the prestigious London dance and performance college ‘Millennium’. A few months later he finished his academic BA (HONS) degree in Marketing Management, as his parents convinced him that it was important to continue with academic achievements, which at the time he was not so sure about, but looking back he is thankful they did. His performance career has spanned 10 years throughout many aspects of performance and the globe. Paul has performed and toured with some of the biggest names in the business including Girls Aloud, Blue and Kylie Minogue. He has also performed as a principal dancer/actor in some of the most prestigious theatres and arenas in the world including The Royal Opera House, London (Carmen), Royal Albert Hall (La Boheme) Von Trappe House (Sound of Music), 02 Arena, NEC, Dublin Arena, Bollywood Movie Studios, Mumbai, India and many more. In between long contracts Paul succeeded to work in TV making appearances in BBC - Eastenders and New Tricks and adverts for Lucozade and Disney whilst also winning the European Modelling contract for Calvin Klein.
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His highest credit was awarded to him in 2007 when he became part of the original west-end cast of the London hit musical ‘DIRTY DANCING’ ( Aldwych Theatre ) where he was written into the history books by being the first British performer to play the lead role ‘Johnny Castle’ originally created/performed by the late ‘Patrick Swayze’. He worked closely with original screenplay writer and producer ‘Eleanor Bergstein’ which inspired him to transform his background and talent towards choreography, directing and now creative direction for live production & film where he has created performances for Simon Cowell and worked on shows and for organisations such as Pineapple Studios, Vogue, Royal Princes Trust, Cadbury’s, Ministry of Sound and ITV’s Dancing on Ice where he choreographed and directed celebrity contestant ‘Vanilla Ice’. Paul currently directs his own production company working globally for corporate, live and film. Paul teaches and enjoys sharing his passion of dance with others, offering the opportunity for creativity, fun and fitness.
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Brampton Chiropractic Clinic 84 High Street, Brampton PE28 4TH DR NEIL BROE, DC and Assoc Registered with the General Chiropractic Council Members of the British Chiropractic Association Over 30 years experience A gentle but specific form of manipulation. Treating the cause of the problem ..... so Often the Answer
Christmas gift ideas, vouchers and gifts sets now available!
• Back, Hip and Leg Pain • Headaches, Migraines • Cranial Therapy • Sinuses • Neck, Arm and Shoulder Pain • Muscle Ligament and Tendon Injuries • Paediatric Care
01480 436435
10% discount on initial visit www.brampton-chiropracticclinic.co.uk BUPA and PPP registered
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Acupuncture
FOR WELL-BEING
Judy obtained her Licentiate in Acupuncture, and B.A (Hons) degree in Traditional Acupuncture, from the College of Traditional Acupuncture, Warwickshire. Judy is a passionate believer in the positive benefits, on both physical and emotional levels, that may be obtained from receiving acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture originated in China and other far eastern cultures where it still features in mainstream healthcare, both as a stand-alone therapy and in combination with conventional western medicine. Judy has been trained as a classical Five Element Acupuncturist; treatment is aimed at the root cause of your condition as well as your main symptoms. This approach helps with resolving your problem and enhancing your feelings of wellbeing. You may notice other niggling problems resolve as your main health complaint improves. Judy continues to pursue her belief in excellence of care for her patients in her role as a dedicated acupuncture practitioner, and is a member of the British Acupuncture Council. Please contact Judy for a free 20minute consultation to discuss how acupuncture treatment can help you.
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Judy Lenton B.A. (Hons) Lic,Ac. MBAcC
located at
Headz Up 65 High Street Brampton Huntingdon Cambridgeshire PE28 4TQ
Traditional acupuncture for
telephone
01480 229029
health & wellbeing
mobile
07557 282617
info@judylentonacupuncture.co.uk or visit
www.judylentonacupuncture.co.uk
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Peony Hair Design
LITTLE PAXTON
WOW, I can’t believe as I am writing this we have just celebrated our first birthday. Since opening in September last year we have had an amazing response to our salon. I would like to say a big THANK YOU firstly to the team at Peony hair Design for doing a fabulous job making the salon somewhere that clients want to visit again and again. Secondly to all of our clients, both old friends and new faces who have been so supportive over the last 12 months, we couldn’t have done it without you. For those of you that haven’t got around
to visiting us yet, here are some examples of customer feedback we have received as testimonials on www.thebestof.co.uk/ stneots...... “Always accommodating, very good service, highly recommended” “After having hated my hair for going on 7 months I now love it again! Amazing cut and style, great hair care advice and most importantly brilliantly talented, friendly staff. Can’t imagine going anywhere else from now on! The best hairdressers I have ever been to.” So, go on, give us a try. Call 01480 471300 or pop in and see us on the conservatory village little Paxton to make your appointment today.
20% off all service valid until 31st October Selected stylists, selected days, terms & conditions apply.
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Throughout life financial planning Better advice from your local friendly independent financial advisor
01480 477774 free initial consultation Fenice Court, Phoenix Park, Eaton Socon, St Neots, Cambridgeshire PE19 8EP Email: enquiries@premierplusltd.co.uk Web: www.premierplusltd.co.uk
Dedicated support for clients in relationship breakdown:
• • • • •
Separation Financial Settlements Change of Name Prenuptial Agreements Mediation
• • • • •
Divorce Living together agreements Adoption Children issues Collaborative family law
Fiona McLeman Family Law is accredited by Resolution and the Solicitors Regulation Authority as a Specialist in Family Law. For a free initial consultation contact Fiona:
fiona@fmfamilylaw.co.uk, 07894095775, www.fmfamilylaw.co.uk Regus House, 1010 Cambourne Business Park, Cambourne CB23 6DP
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Divorce Q&A
FIONA McLEMAN Clients often have the same anxieties about the divorce process, and come along to a first meeting with their lawyer armed with a bundle of questions that need answers. Here is a summary of those which readers may find useful. Can we both file for divorce? Only one spouse can petition for divorce. They are known as the Petitioner and the other spouse is the Respondent. Can I cite irreconcilable differences? There is no such thing. The ground for divorce is ‘Irretrievable breakdown’. How do I prove irretrievable breakdown? By proving one of five facts - adultery, behaviour, 2 years separation with the Respondent’s consent, 5 years separation, or desertion for 2 years. Can I get a quickie divorce? There is no such thing. Divorces typically take the same amount of time from the point the petition for divorce is filed with the Court. How long does it take? If the divorce is not contested it will take 3-4 months. How much will it cost? Court fees are typically £385. Solicitors’ fees are extra. Do I have to go to court? If the divorce is not contested, it is a paper exercise and no attendance at court is required.
Do I have to consult a lawyer? No, it is possible to petition for divorce without legal representation. Where do I get the forms? These can be obtained online from the court service website or in person by attending at your local county court. What if we have children? Provided the children’s arrangements are agreed, there is no need to attend court. What if my spouse will not cooperate? All steps should be taken to ensure the divorce is as amicable as possible. It is possible to progress a divorce even if the other spouse will not cooperate What should I do next? If legal advice is required, consult www. resolution.org.uk to find a Resolution approved lawyer near you.
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Anstee Gorst
Chartered Certified Accountants
- Accounts preparation for Sole traders, Partnerships and Limited Companies - Self assessment tax returns - Cash Flow Forecasting - Vat, Payroll & Bookkeeping - Business Start Up
Free Initial Consultation Phone: Antoinette Gorst ACCA or Sally Anstee FCCA 01767 650700 Ground Floor Offices, Unit 30, Green End, Gamlingay, Sandy, Beds, SG19 3LF Email: office@ansteegorst.co.uk Website: www.ansteegorst.co.uk
If you run your own business, are currently selfemployed or have a tax return to complete, you may be paying too much tax. We are offering a FREE meeting to discuss this further.You have nothing to lose by finding out how much you could be saving. Call Richard McMorran on 01480 470755 or email stneots@rjmcmorran.co.uk Offices with ample parking in Eaton Socon and Godmanchester Visit our website at www.rjmcmorran.co.uk
Absolutely ... Positively ... NO pressure to sell! We give you FREE VALUATIONS .... YOU DECIDE !
WE PAY
CASH Cambridge Coins and Jewellery Coins, Medals, Banknotes, Tokens, Postcards.
Anything GOLD any SILVER....even broken jewellery!
Buying and selling old Coins, Military Medals, Tokens, Banknotes and bullion ...as well as Jewellery.
52 High Street // Biggleswade // Beds // SG18 0LJ // (Opposite “The Codfather�) Open Wednesday to Saturday. 11am to 7pm
t: 01767 600 300 e: shop@cambridgecoins.co.uk 28
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Pensions
Aaaaggghhhh!
Are you affected? Pension legislation is changing again. All companies will need to enrol employees into a new government pension scheme ‘NEST’ (National Employment Savings Trust), unless they have an alternative in place which is at least as good. Due to how the government have set-up NEST there are other, more tax efficient and appropriate schemes available to companies. So is this Good News? – Possibly not. Some companies will see the changing legislation as a way to change their scheme or implement an inferior one, leaving individuals either unsure of what to do, or with yet another ‘paid up’ pension. Pension consolidation is a specialised area, and whilst often beneficial, can result in a huge loss of benefits if not reviewed properly. By the time people reach 40-50 they often have several pensions plans or “pots of money” that are no longer being managed or reviewed. If you fall into this category – or even if you only have one
Tony Larkins CFP APFS Group Managing Director / IFA Chartered and Certified Financial Planner Beacon Financial Limited & Beacon Wealth Management Limited
old pension, I urge you to review the plan as soon as possible. Sacrificing money to pay in is one thing – not maximising the return is pointless. Clearly if you do have old pensions that have not been reviewed you need to contact a suitable adviser. I suggest you ask whether they have a G60 or AF3 qualification. These are specialist pension qualifications that not many advisers have. Both show equal proficiency although G60 would imply greater experience. Also do not rely on the myth that the pension company is managing it for you. They work to preagreed mandates that could see them investing in wholly inappropriate shares for your personal requirements, because they have no choice. You should always seek qualified advice from an IFA, preferably a Certified (CFP) or Chartered Financial PlannerCM (APFS). If you have a financial question e-mail: tlarkins@beaconwealth.co.uk
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COMPETITION • COMPETITION For over 50 years, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap has been the world’s longest running stage production. Today the record-breaking production will enter its 60th year in London’s West End, and on 25 November 2012 will celebrate the actual 60th Birthday with a gala in aid of Mousetrap Theatre Projects. Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap is unique. It sets a new world record every day for the number of performances. When The Mousetrap opened on 25th November 1952 with Richard Attenborough and his fellow film-star and beloved wife Sheila Sim in the leading roles, it was only seven years since Hitler died. Much essential food was still rationed, Mr Winston Churchill was Prime Minister, Harry Truman was President of the United States, and Stalin was ruler of Russia. There was fighting in Korea, and Princess Elizabeth began her long reign as Queen. The last tram ran in London, Television programmes ended at 10.30 p.m., and the entire TV listings only occupied three and a half lines. Since The Mousetrap opened 390 actors and actresses have appeared in the play, there have been 221 understudies. 119 miles of shirts miles of shirts have been ironed. The play has been presented in 27 different languages in more than 50 countries. It all started in 1947 when the late Queen Mary was approaching her 80th birthday on 26th May, the BBC wanted to do a special radio broadcast as a tribute. Remember in 1947 TV was virtually unknown, and made enquiries as to what she
would like. Opera, Shakespeare, anything she choose was hers for the asking. Back came the reply, an Agatha Christie play. Agatha Christie wrote a 30 minute play for Queen Mary’s birthday called, Three Blind Mice. And so a legend was born, because Three Blind Mice was eventually enlarged into The Mousetrap. The play opened at a Theatre so small that it had to be an immediate smash hit to survive. Well, it was and it did. Why has it run? No one can say. A family play, a good who donit, comedy and thrills, well constructed (perhaps better than people realise). But other plays have also qualified in these categories. After 18 months, star Richard Attenborough left, which would have been a death blow to most plays. But with no “names “ The Mousetrap strode triumphantly on, records came and went. And there came a time - no one can say at what point - when The Mousetrap was an institution. And still people laughed, admired and wondered. Publicity was self perpetuating, helped by mammoth celebration parties which the stars generously supported. The fact that Agatha Christie herself rarely gave interviews made her occasional ones enormous news. In its first 50 years The Mousetrap had more than 324 different actors and actresses in its cast of 8, 162 understudies and 20 different directors. During its 60 years the scenery and all the furnishings have been replaced except for one armchair and a clock. www.the-mousetrap.co.uk
Villager Magazine has three champagne packages each worth £131.50 to giveaway, each packages consists of a pair of tickets, a Bottle of Champagne, a Brochure and a Souvenir Programme. The prize is only applicable Mon-Thurs and not on a Bank Holiday and should be used within 3 months. Please send your name and address to enter the prize draw to Mousetrap Prize Draw, The Villager, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP.
COMPETITION • COMPETITION To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
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BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
AT QUE SERA ON BUCKDEN HIGH STREET It was one year ago and Chris Smith was drinking coffee with some friends at The George. The hairdressers on the opposite side of the street had just closed down and one friend said “why don’t you open a shop there?” And now we are one year old! What have we achieved in our first year? First of all, we have a great team in Tina, Sarah and Anita. They will always able to find that memorable gift or matching necklace and scarf for you. Secondly, Chris and Anita are now working on interior design projects, selecting fabrics, wallpaper, sofas, curtain poles and designing complete room sets for homes in and around Buckden. We are also expanding our ranges of ladies’ clothing to include jackets, dresses, twinsets and cashmere. During the course of 2012 Chris became a grandmother (twice!) so now we stock children’s clothes – babygrows with magnetic closers, smart outfits for toddlers and funky knitwear to complement our range of sustainable and educational toys for all ages. Together with our range of cards for all occasions, we believe that Que Sera can match a gift to any age and personality. Come along a try to catch us out!
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INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE Chris Smith trained in Art and Design, specialising in textiles, at Bedford Teachers’ Training College and followed a career as an art teacher. Chris has a great eye for colour and is able to suggest tones that work together to enhance any room set – although the colours probably won’t be the ones you would have thought of! Que Sera can supply fabric and wallpaper and arrange for curtains and blinds to be made to order, as well as re-upholstery. We can also supply furniture – we recommend TAMARISK Designs, whose sofas are made in England to the highest standards and whose range includes modern and classic designs. For bedroom and study rooms we recommend COACH HOUSE, who stock funky modern and traditional items at reasonable cost. For dining rooms it’s WOSSNER who take modern German design and add their own unique flair. There is then the GWINNER range of modular sitting room furniture which can fit wall cupboards, TV units and shelving into the space that you have available.
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QUE SERA
32 High Street, Buckden PE19 5XA More than just a gift shop
Come and choose from our wide range of curtain and upholstery fabrics by
Curtain and blind measurement and Make-Up Service Available Memorable Gifts - Fashions - Cards - Toys Homewares - Candles - Jewellery - Accessories Interior Design, Furnishings and Colour Matching
OPEN MONDAY – SATURDAY 10am to 5pm www.queserashop.co.uk Tel: 01480 819639 To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
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Enjoy Some Tulip Mania
by pippa Greenwood All those years ago when ‘Tulipmania’ was rife, people were so taken by tulips that it’s said they paid similar to house prices for some especially prized tulip bulbs. Now that might seem crazy, but nowadays we can relax and enjoy tulips without spending a fortune. They are amazingly good value, as a visit to your local garden centre will prove and now’s a great time to plant tulip bulbs. In fact it’s better to plant them over the next few weeks than to have planted them in September, so take the plunge and indulge in some tulip bulbs that have the potential to transform your flower beds and tubs next spring with their silken-petalled, strikingly coloured blooms. Late Planting - Tulip bulbs are best planted after you plant most of your other spring flowering bulbs. Planting from the last half of October and well in to November generally works best. Plant too early and the bulbs will be far more prone to damage by the fungal ‘tulip fire’ disease which wrecks the leaves and flowers, so you can relax in the knowledge that spring is now packed full of potential. Gritty Bed - If your garden soil is inclined to be clay and rather heavy, tulips may suffer and are certainly less likely to come back after their first wet winter. A heavy loam works well but anything that isn’t well drained may cause problems. You can solve this to a good extent by digging an extra large planting hole and putting an inch or two of horticultural gravel or grit in the base of the hole before planting the bulb. Don’t use grit or gravel left over from the local building site, as this often contains salts and other contaminants which may harm or kill garden plants. Contained Colour - Tulips make great plants for containers such as window boxes, tubs and decent-sized pots and planters. All types do well, but shorter varieties generally look best (check the front of the pack or the catalogue for heights). Good drainage is essential so make sure that there are plenty of crocks in the base of the container and that it’s well supplied with drainage holes. Either a loam-free multi-purpose compost or use this mixed 50:50 with a loambased compost and a bit of added grit. Fantastic Foliage - Tulips are best known for their gorgeous flowers, but don’t forget that many also have good looking foliage which can help to
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bring colour and texture to your pots and beds. Try the Kaufmanniana types such as ‘Johann Strauss’(dark red flowers with yellow edges and mottled leaves), or even better the Greigii type tulips which all have maroon patterning on the leaves, such as ‘Red Riding Hood’ (richest red with black). Choosing tulips with fantastic foliage means that they give you something to enjoy both before and after the fantastic floral display. Tulip Partners - It’s the ultimate classic combination, but to my mind it’s still not used often enough – richest red tulips surrounded by a mist of pale blue forget-me-nots. Dreamily pretty, this wonderful combination is easy to achieve; you can sow the forget-me-not seed now, as you plant the bulbs, or if you prefer sow them early in the year, just before the bulbs emerge. Either way the display you achieve will be breathtakingly beautiful. Long-lived Lovelies - In most gardens tulips are not the longest living bulbs, however you can always try growing the so-called species tulips such as Tulipa sprengeri or Tulipa turkestanica. They have smaller, less-showy flowers and will be considerably more expensive initially but they look gorgeous, tend to last longer and, better still, spread extensively in the right spot. After a few years a carpet of species tulips can be achieved, and will take your breath away. Good Companions - Tulips look great with each other or with many other plants. Try combining the richly purple-black leaved Pittosporum ‘Tom Thumb’ with any purple tulip such as ‘Passionale’, or for a wackier effect chose one of the frilly petalled parrot-tulips with green streaks on their petals, or the green ‘spring green’ tulip, combined with any low-growing shrub. So whether your garden is large or small, or you’re restricted to a paved backyard or a balcony, this is the best time of year to think tulips and all they have to offer your garden. Start planting now and transform your garden for spring. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com. You can also sign up for Pippa’s newsletter and get a free ebook on organic gardening.
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GILKS FENCING LTD Supplying of all types of gates and fencing to trade and public.
•Closeboard Fencing • TGV Gates • Trellis Made to Customers Design • Lap Panel Fencing • Railings • Chain Link • Knee Rail Fencing • Concrete Slotted Posts • Professional Installation Available
td encing L 9 2HX r Gilks F G1 fo S s s s d e re d B New Ad , Sandy, y a g n li ad, Gam rove Ro
D
Tel: 01767 681746 Fax: 01767 681776 www.gilksfencing.co.uk Email: gilksfencing@hotmail.com
Unique Landscape We specialise in
Patios, Fencing, Clear Ups Turf Laying, Hedge Trimming Tree Cutting, Tree Felling, Planting, Pruning, Driveways, Printed concrete, Stencil Concrete, Decking ...and much more
Free Quotations Reliable Friendly Service Mob: 07717 760851 Office: 01480 434401 e:sales@uniquelandscape.co.uk
www.uniquelandscapes-huntingdon.co.uk
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LAWN CARE
FOR OCTOBER
Autumn Feed This feed is another important part of any lawncare programme. Feed with a fertiliser high in Phosphate and Potassium with additional Iron for that dark green look Aeration Soil compaction is a frequent cause of turf deterioration and moss invasion so we recommend aerating in autumn/winter; over sow with seed to help any bare areas re- establish before weeds and moss do! Worm Casts This month will probably see the appearance of worm casts (small mounds of earth brought to the surface by worms). Treatments can be applied to stop the casts occurring in the first place. Moss Moss will start to encroach now and it is advisable to treat now before it competes with the lawn. Our fertiliser contains extra iron to help reduce the moss problem.
Actions required in Autumn Autumn feed/Moss Control - Improves colour and controls moss Aerate lawn - Relieves compaction and prepares soil for sowing extra seed Worm Casts - Brush off when dry or treat with a pesticide Moss - Treat moss Some of the above tasks can be carried out by the lawn owner; other tasks may need some professional intervention. For more information about ProLawnCare Ltd services on offer Call Deborah or Richard on 01480 812393 e-mail- info@prolawncare.co.uk Got a Question? Ask the Lawn Ranger www.prolawncare.co.uk/lawnranger.asp “for that Lawn you’ve longed for” Follow us on twitter - prolawncareuk
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ANIMAL STORIES
Abandoned ferret finds a happy ending When a young male ferret was found, with a tin can on his head, at the side of the A421 in Marston Moretaine, a passer by handed him in to the RSPCA North Bedfordshire branch. ‘Mr Bean’ – as he was nicknamed – had a few minor cuts around his neck and was rather thin, but the charity soon nursed him back to health ready for re-homing. With any animal, the RSPCA urges people to research the needs of each pet before committing to owning it. Ferrets are fun loving, full of curiosity, very affectionate, highly intelligent animals that love nothing better than being in the thick of your home life. They can become very tame if handled regularly and can be walked on a lead. They can be kept outside in a large aviary style enclosure (minimum size of 6ft by 5ft) with lots of things for them to play with and concrete or paving slabs on the floor to prevent them
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digging themselves out. They are skilled escape artists so being the owner of a ferret brings some peculiar challenges, as well as a rather strong aroma. For Mr Bean, the ending is a very happy one. Adopted by a family from North Yorkshire holidaying in Bedfordshire, he is now established in a luxury outbuilding with accommodation for two more rescued ferrets. One of his favourite past-times is apparently watching TV with his new family! There are many animals in our care looking for a forever home. If you’re interested in adopting one, please contact us. ANIMAL STORIES is one of a series of articles brought to you by the RSPCA North Bedfordshire branch www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk
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Wondering what to do for childcare this school holiday? Then wonder no more!
“schools OUT” is a holiday club for children aged 4 – 12 years. Monday to Friday Book onlyed, ne what you hour... 8.00am – 6.00pm pay(mbyinth3ehrs) for more details contact us on:
01480 811180
e:info@schoolsout-cambs.co.uk Buckden Millennium Centre Burberry Road, Buckden Cambs. PE19 5UY
Can I go to the Paddocks for my Holiday please?
Paddocks Boarding Cattery Peaceful location. No dogs boarded. Spacious, individual, heated chalets with large covered runs. Inspection welcome. Boarding from £6.00/day. Rabbits/guinea pigs also boarded. 64 Meadow Road, Great Gransden
Telephone 01767 677 759 www.catterybedfordshire.co.uk Open all year.
The cattery for caring owners. Comfort and security for your pet. To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
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Activities include:
Dog’s Day Out – The Ultimate Doggy experience!
Wood Green Animal rehoming Charity Shop Restaurant Pet and Gift Shop Children’s play area Children’s ‘hands on’ events Open 7 days a week, 10.00am – 4.00pm FRee entry
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Friday 2nd November, 10am-4.00pm, Godmanchester Centre, Activity prices: £1-£5 Join us for a fun-filled day and discover new activities that you can do with your dog. Have-a-go at agility, teach your dog new tricks and try to beat the clock and win prizes with our fun doggy games. Enter our enrichment room to find new ways to keep your dog happy at home, plus ‘ask the experts’ and free weight checks. All Dog’s Day Out participants can attend our Family Fun session for FREE! (Conditions apply.) All activities are undercover.
Dog’s Day Out Family Fun Session Friday 2nd November, Godmanchester Centre, Learning Centre Join our Hands On team in the Leaning Centre for an action packed drop in day celebrating all things doggy! £4 per child or FREE if you participate in Dogs Day Out activities taking place in the main arena and annexe. Drop in session so no need to book.
Call: 0844 248 8181 Visit: www.woodgreen.org.uk Or email: info@woodgreen.org.uk King’s Bush Farm, London Road, Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire, PE29 2NH Wood Green, The Animals Charity is the Registered Trademark of Wood Green Animal Shelters, Registered Charity No. 298348.
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Mitsubishi Outlander 2012
BY JAMES BAGGOTT
New car launches take place pretty frequently. Audi, for example, has delivered no less than 21 new models into showrooms since 2010. In those same two years, niche Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi has launched absolutely nothing. That’s why, as car launches go, this new Outlander is a pretty big deal. So has the wait been worth it? Well, in short, yes. No longer a partnership with Peugeot Citroen (who sold versions of the predecessor), the new Outlander is described by Mitsubishi as an ‘engineer’s car’. What it means is efficiency, space and refinement were all high on the agenda – looks, however, appear to have slipped off it. In fact, it’s worth dealing with our main complaint now. If there’s one thing that lets the new Outlander down, it’s the conservative styling. At a time when design is at the forefront of our lives, the Mitsubishi will be hard pressed to stand out in a class bristling with good-looking alternatives. However, the new model does make a strong case for itself. Let’s start under the bonnet. In the UK, we’ll only get a 2.2-litre diesel engine and a four-wheel drive powertrain. Mitsubishi has worked hard on the unit’s green credentials. We drove a pre-production model, but by the time the car is launched in November, the maker hopes it will produce under 145g/km (down from 165g/km) and return more than 50mpg. The 148bhp engine doesn’t lack grunt either. With 380Nm of torque it pulled strongly on the German
Autobahns and twisty mountain roads that made up our test route. The 2.2-litre is likely to be good for 125mph and will crack the benchmark 60mph sprint in under 10 seconds. What’s really impressive though is the refinement. Inside, the engine is barely audible, while wind and tyre noise are kept to a minimum too. If we were to be picky, we did find the steering a little numb at the dead ahead, but the manual six speed gearbox was direct and pleasant to use. There was also a noticeable lack of body roll for a 4x4 in corners. New technology, for Mitsubishi at least, will also make a debut on the Outlander. There’s a lane departure warning system, adaptive cruise control and a low-speed anti-collision system which will apply the brakes for drivers if it thinks you’re about to hit the car in front – at a roundabout, for example. What will come as standard is yet to be finalised, but expect the lot on the top-of-the-range model. There’s also a new multimedia system with sat nav, which is far easier to use than before and an electronic tailgate. But by far the biggest selling point for the Outlander is the two very-usable extra seats in the boot floor. They can be extended in seconds and fold away completely flat. They’re perfect for parents who sometimes need an extra set of chairs for the school run. Mitsubishi aims to sell 4,000 Outlanders a year in the UK at slightly more than the current model (around £25,000). We think that could be a tough ask with this sole offering. However, when the plug-in hybrid version arrives next year offering real world economy of 140mpg, it could be a very different story indeed. Vital Statistics Mitsubishi Outlander Engine: 2.2-litre, diesel Power: 148bhp, 380Nm 0-60mph: 9.7 (est) Max speed: 125mph (est) Efficiency: 50.4mpg (est) Co2 Emissions: 145g/km (est) Price: From £24,995 (est) Availability: On sale November Rating: *** (3)
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HUNTS PHIL
NEW CONCERTS The new season of concerts by the orchestra and chorus of “Hunts Phil” begins on Saturday 10th November at 7 30p.m. With a selection of English music by Parry (I Was Glad), Delius (Sea Drift) and Vaughan Williams(5th Symphony). The soloist in Sea Drift is the acclaimed baritone, Laurence Meikle. The concerts take place in the Performing Arts Centre in Hinchingbrook School, Huntingdon, and this first one is supported by the Delius Trust. Tickets can be bought from: Anabel Capon (01832 274834) huntsphiltickets@btinternet.com
L Family Business with over 20 years experience Male and Female DSA Approved Instructors • Motorway Training • Theory Test Training • Pass Plus Training • Parking & Refresher Training • 10 Hours for £220 • Intensive courses available
SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY OFFER First 2 hours for the price of one for new students with this voucher
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07519 307088 rubyschoolofmotoring@gmail.com www.rubyschoolofmotoring.com
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15% DISCOUNT ON ALL WORK CARRIED OUT OVER £50 WITH THIS ADVERT
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Oven Cleaning! - It’s a dirty job! Why do it yourself? We clean ovens using non-caustic, non-toxic products in your home. Ovens • Ranges • Hobs • Extractors Agas • Microwaves • Barbecues (May - Sept) Single Oven (all racks/pans inc)........................£35 Single Oven & Grill Oven (all racks/pans inc).....£45 Single Separate Grill Oven (racks/pans inc)......£15 Microwaves & Combination Ovens....................£20 Extractor Fan (free filter for next clean).............£12 Hob..................................................................£12 . . .
Agas and Ranges priced accordingly Oven Bulbs replaced for free in all jobs V.A.T free
Contact James on: 01767 260188 or Mobile: 07812 666081 email: ovenmen@live.co.uk You can also book at www.ovenmen.com
parent company est. 1998
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SEASONAL DELIGHTS AUTUMN PUDDING
Serves 6 Ready in 1 hour (plus overnight chilling)
Try this variation on summer pudding making the most of the early Autumn fruits, such as plums, blackberries and delicious English apples. Serve with softly whipped double cream flavoured with a splash of Calvados for a really indulgent dessert. INGREDIENTS 175g caster sugar 3 small English eating apples, peeled, cored and sliced 4 red plums, halved, stones removed and sliced 100g raspberries 100g strawberries, hulled and sliced 100g blackcurrants or blueberries 100g blackberries 10 slices thick-sliced white bread Extra fruit, to decorate 1 Place the sugar and 200ml of cold water in a large pan and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved. Add the sliced apples and simmer for 5-10 minutes until just tender. Add the rest of the
fruit and simmer for a further 2-3 minutes. Leave to cool. 2 Remove the crusts from the bread slices. Use a round cookie cutter to stamp out a circle from one slice of bread to fit the base of a 1.2 litre pudding basin. Cut the remaining slices of bread in half. 3 Carefully strain half of the fruit syrup from the cooled fruit into a shallow dish. Lightly dip most of the slices of bread into the syrup and arrange around the side of the pudding basin, overlapping them slightly to completely line the basin. Dip the bread circle into the syrup and press into the bottom of the basin. 4 Spoon the fruit into the lined basin, pressing down gently with the back of a spoon. Use the remaining slices of bread to cover the fruit filling completely and spoon over any remaining syrup. 5 Place a saucer on top of the basin and weigh it down with 2-3 food cans. Chill in the fridge overnight. To serve, carefully turn the pudding out onto a plate and decorate with extra sliced fruit.
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CODEWORD
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ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
9 X 9 PUZZLE
How to play It’s simple! Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repetition. Use your logic to solve the puzzle. Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.
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M Compton
Groundworks
• Block Paved Drives • Patios • Drainage • Foundations • Mini Digger & Tipper Hire All aspects of groundwork undertaken T: M:
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01480 354 076 07811 467 729
TELEVISION MOBILE SERVICE ST NEOTS, ST IVES, HUNTINGDON AREA REPAIR TV,VCR, DVD, FREEVIEW DIGITAL BOXES TUNING & DEMONSTRATION OF EQUIPMENT DIGITAL LOFT AERIALS SUPPLIED & FITTED Extension Aerial Points DAY OR EVENING CALL OUTS 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE PHONE JOHN FABISZ FOR ESTIMATE
01480 495408 OR 07887887319
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The St. Neots
Coffee Pot Memory Cafe To lose one’s memory is a sad and frightening thing - our memories make us who we are. Its not only traumatic for the person concerned, but also for those closest to them, and they can soon find their relationship turning from that of spouse, son or daughter, to becoming that of a carer. If the memory loss turns out to be serious, and not just the sort of thing that afflicts most of us as we get older - forgetting names, wondering why we have just gone upstairs etc, the family can find themselves becoming more and more isolated, - friends finding it difficult to cope with the changed situation, and before long their main relationships seem to be with professionals. This is where the St Neots Coffee Pot Memory Cafe comes in. Run by volunteers who have all experienced someone close to them suffering from severe memory loss, it aims to provide support for those embarking on the same journey. In a relaxed and informal atmosphere, they provide a friendly ear, support, and of course, coffee and cake. The
person suffering the memory loss, and their carer are both very welcome. We meet on the second Wednesday of every month at Berkley Street Methodist Church in Eynesbury from 11am - 12.30am. Phone any of the following to find out more, (or just to have a friendly chat) Wendy P on 212563, Wendy I on 212295, Mary on 475920, Nell on 472495. We are supported in our efforts by the Rotary Club of St. Neots Lunch Club In addition to the above, there is also a monthly Lunch Club on the first Thursday of every month at the Eaton Oak, St. Neots, 12 noon for 12.30pm. This is also run by volunteers who have lost someone close to them and can provide informal and friendly support. Do contact any of those mention above if you are interested in attending, either with the person you are caring for, or on your own.
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The Villager Prize Crossword
Last Month’s Crossword Winners Congratulations to: 1st Jean Hunt from Biggleswade 2nd Paul Larkins from Alconbury For last month’s solution please visit www.villagermag.com
sponsors of
THE VILLAGER PRIZE CROSSWORD
1st Prize £25 Name:
Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before 19th October 2012 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP
2nd Prize £15
Tel:
Address:
Across 1 Fog (4) 3 Travellers (8) 9 Table support (7) 10 Entrance (5) 11 Clarifications (12) 14 Epoch (3) 16 Sphere (5) 17 To drink (3) 18 Uses camera (12) 21 Large sea (5) 22 Lawn game (7) 23 Mixing (8) 24 Steak (4) Down 1 Mumbled (8) 2 Snooze (5) 4 Poem (3) 5 Ice-box (12) 6 Proverbs (7) 7 Painful (4) 8 Untangled (12) 12 Amid (5) 13 Alcoholic appetiser (8) 15 Accomplish (7) 19 Dwelling (5) 20 Grave (4) 22 Tin (3)
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Please Life when when responding responding to to adverts adverts Please mention mention The The Villager and Town Life
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Bean scene
TECHNOLOGY REPort Get your caffeine kick effortlessly with the latest coffee makers and gadgets. We’re a nation of coffee lovers, so it’s hardly surprising that there’s a huge range of gadgets that promise to deliver the perfect caffeine fix. From cheap and cheerful cafetières to massive Costa Coffee-scale machines, there are gadgets to suit all tastes and budgets. Coffee purists scoff at instant, saying there’s no substitute for ground coffee. The cheapest and easiest way to experiment with ground coffee is to buy it in a tin and stick it in a cafetière; expect to pay around £10 for a simple one or as much as £60 for Bodum’s Columbia double-walled cafetière, heat insulated to keep your coffee fresh. If you’d like to turn your coffee into a latte, £7 to £15 pays for a battery-powered milk frother. Cafetières aren’t the only cheap choice: the Aeropress (around £20 online) comes with rave reviews. It looks like a cross between a cafetière and a pump, and that’s essentially what it is: it uses gentle air pressure to extract more flavour from your coffee. Using it’s just a matter of putting in a few scoops of coffee, pouring in hot water and pressing the plunger. The whole process takes less than 30 seconds. For years most coffee machines in the high street were filter ones, usually consisting of a reasonably sized jug, a hot plate and a funnel. They’re still around, but in recent years the focus has shifted to machines that make small espressos rather than huge jugs. Espresso machines come in two forms: ones that use loose ground coffee, and ones that use pods. DeLonghi’s EC330S Espresso Coffee Machine (around £85) is a good example of the former, with
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a removable stainless steel filter and an integrated frother that uses steam to create perfect cappuccinos and lattes. They’re not the quietest or the most convenient - the filter only takes enough coffee for a single cup at a time - but there’s no arguing with the superbly tasty results. If you’d rather use pre-packed coffee pods than loose grounds, DeLonghi’s Espresso Icona range (from around £99) offers the best of both worlds: it works with Easy Serve Espresso (ESE) pods, or with loose coffee. As with the EC330S, it’s only designed to make one or two drinks at a time. ESE is the world’s favourite kind of coffee pod, with versions from big names including Illy, Lavazza and Segafredo, but it isn’t the only one: Nestle has its Nespresso system, while Douwe Egberts has its Senseo. All three systems offer pros and cons: they’re more convenient than loose coffee and less messy, but the coffee isn’t as fresh and in the case of Nespresso and Senseo, you’re locked into one firm’s coffee system. Senseo pods don’t work in Nespresso machines and vice-versa. Coffee snobs wouldn’t go near either: for them, the only way to make coffee is to grind the beans yourself. Grinders aren’t as expensive as you might think. Bodum’s Bistro range of electric grinders starts at £79, while Krups’ GVX2 is just £36. It is one more machine to clean however and one more step between waking up and tasting the first coffee of the day. If you’re really serious about your coffee, a coffee machine with its own integrated grinder is a much better idea - but don’t expect to find one going cheap: a good quality bean-to-cup machine such as Gaggia’s R18171 will set you back £699.
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what’S ON?
IN OCTOBER
1, 7, 15, 22 & 29 October Chess Club 7.30pm Comrades Club, Godmanchester Meets every Monday except Bank Holidays. Over 18s only (Licensed premises). Tel: John: 07912 935868 or Ozzie: 01480 414623 Email: ozzie.day5@gmail.com 2 October Cromwell Video Camera Club 7pm for 7.30pm start Reading Room, High Street, Hemingford Grey Welcoming the general public to see the making of a film in one evening. Members to bring camcorders, etc.. 3 October Hens at the bottom of my garden 8pm Little Paxton Village Hall Members £1, Non-members £2 Little Paxton Gardening Club will hear about the pleasures of rearing chickens from Richard Thompson. New members are always welcome at our meetings. Annual membership is only £5 per person plus £1 per meeting. Tel: Jane Hill, Secretary, 01480 218805 4, 11, 18 & 25 October Explorers Club 6.30-7.45pm Godmanchester Baptist Church Entrance 60p Thursday evenings. Weekly Club for children in school years 3-6. Activities, crafts, stories and games. Tel: For details and booking phone 01480 458565 Web: www.godmanchesterbaptist.org 5 October Monsoon Wedding (2001) 8pm Con Exchange, St Ives Tickets £5 from Corn Exchange or online at www.screenstives.org.uk NEW SEASON, NEW DATE! October brings our 201213 film season. SSI will be on the first Friday of the month, rather than the second.
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Entries into our What’s On sections are free. If you have an event you would like us to publicise please email the details to whatson@villagermag.com The complexities of love make Monsoon Wedding a touching and funny story as well as being one of the most colourful films you’ll see this autumn: Bollywood-style with a strong storyline and a brilliant soundtrack. As the families meets in Delhi to celebrate the arranged marriage of Pimmi and Hemant, tensions mount – will the wedding go off without a hitch? Screen St Ives is the community cinema in the heart of the town providing affordable, quality entertainment on the first Friday of every month. 5, 12, 19 & 26 October Friday Night Project 7.30-9.30pm Godmanchester Baptist Church Entrance 50p Friday evenings. Friday Night Project is for young people in school years 7-13. PlayStation 3 and Wii, tuck shop, pool, table tennis, table football and air hockey. Plus special events and theme nights. Tel: For details and booking phone 01480 458565 Web: www.godmanchesterbaptist.org 6 October Rainbow Mind, Body & Soul Fair 11am-4pm Buckden Village Hall, Burberry Road, Buckden Clairvoyant readings, Indian Head Massage, Manicures, Reiki Healing, Crystal Healing, Spiritual Healing, many stalls including Crystals, Spiritual Books, Candles, Fairies, Angels, Buddahs, refreshments and much more. Guest appearance of Steve Newton playing his Native American Flutes. Email cherryalisonsmith@hotmail.co.uk for further information 6 October Roman Food and Kitchen Paraphernalia 7.30pm Queen Elizabeth School, Godmanchester £4 on the door including glass of wine Talk and demonstration consisting of an introduction to new foods introduced to Britain, details of Roman kitchen equipment, some food myths as well as food tasting.
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what’S ON? IN OCTOBER
7 October Indoor Car Boot Sale Traders from 7am. Buyers 9am-1pm Wood Green Animal Shelter, Godmanchester £6 per pitch. 50p entry. Booking essential call 0844 248 8181. 7 October Model Railway Open Garden 2-5 pm 14 Boardman Close, Little Paxton Free admission, donations welcome Come and see a Gauge 1 radio controlled model railway in the garden. Refreshments. Event will be cancelled if wet. All proceeds to St James’ Church building project (CHUFT) 13 October Church & Tower Open Day 11.30am-4pm St James Church, Little Paxton Free admission An opportunity to see the re-ordered church and view the restored bells and clock. Bookstall and refreshments 13 & 14 October Autumn Craft Fair 10am-4pm Wood Green Animal Shelter, Godmanchester Adults £2.50, Concessions £2 Wide range of arts, craft and gift stalls including jewellery and other accessories, handicrafts, handmade cards, photography, candles, aromatherapy products, through to ceramics and wood turning. Food and drink including chocolates and other confectionery. Web: www.oakleighfairs.co.uk 16 October Cromwell Video Camera Club 7pm for 7.30pm start Reading Room, High Street, Hemingford Grey 3rd competition of the year. Subject is “Shops”. 15 minutes maximum. 16 October Kimbolton Flower Club 7.30pm Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton Admission £6 including light refreshments “It’s All Booty” by demonstrator Penny Vincent. Visitors are most welcome.
17 October Lunatic Asylums 7.30-9pm WI Headquarters, Walden Road, Huntingdon Huntingdonshire Family History Society presents David Edwards talking about Lunatic Asylums. Non-members welcome – £1 donation at the door appreciated. Tel: Caroline Kesseler – 01480 390476 Email: secretary@huntsfhs.org.uk Web: www.huntsfhs.org.uk 21 October Big Band Concert 8pm St James Church, Little Paxton Tickets (including refreshments) £8 (Children £5) Featuring the St Neots Big Band. Proceeds in aid of St James Church building project (CHUFT) Tickets from: Alison Rogers 01480 215607 or June Griffin 01480 399773 23 October Hemingford Grey Flower Club 10 am Reading Room, Hemingford Grey Admission £3 including coffee Flower arranging demonstration by Denise Cercus. Raffle. All welcome. 27 October Family Quiz Night Wyboston Village Hall Test your knowledge of important and trivial facts. Bring your own Picnic Tea. Teams of 8. Entrance by ticket ONLY. For more details see our web site www.wybostonvillagehall.com or telephone Mrs Susie Woodman 01234 376098 7 November Vertical Gardening with shrubs and climbers 8pm Little Paxton Village Hall Members £1, Non-members £2 Little Paxton Gardening Club will hear about vertical gardening with shrubs and climbers herbs in a talk from Hilary Thomas. New members are always welcome at our meetings. Annual membership is only £5 per person plus £1 per meeting. Tel: Jane Hill, Secretary 01480 218805
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FLOORED By Ian
Your local supplier of fitted floors in carpet, vinyl, laminate or Karndean Free visits to estimate or advise. Best prices and quality with a friendly service. Enquiries to 01480 475486 or (Mobile) 07876 238308
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Firework Safety and Etiquette
By Debbie Singh-Bhatti Hosting and planning a party can be stressful, what with checking there’s enough food and drink to go around and organising the entertainment. Fireworks are a brilliant way to entertain guests, but whilst they may look pretty in the night sky, they can also be extremely dangerous. Make sure that in between shopping for party-poppers and paper plates, you also have the right safety equipment needed for your display. Gloves and eye protection are a must have, as well as a taper for setting off fireworks at arm’s length - you don’t want to burn off your eyebrows by mistake! Make sure that everybody stands well back, and do not approach fireworks that have been lit - even if they haven’t gone off – as there’s a chance they still could. Store your fireworks in a metal box, away from flames, so that your party doesn’t go off with the wrong kind of bang, and always keep a bucket of water nearby to put out sparklers safely. Last of all, don’t forget to tell your neighbours in
advance that you’re having a party so that they aren’t inconvenienced by the noise, and if your party is not on November 5th itself do not set fireworks off after 11pm as it’s against the law and you could be fined! On November 5th you have until 12 midnight. Most importantly, make sure you have fun, enjoy yourself, and stay safe!
LESTER O’DRISCOLL CARPENTRY
S B Driveways
Tel 01487 822993 / 07966 523239
For Block Paving New and Old Repaired and Relayed Patio Laying Service, Paths, Shed Bases and Fencing. Plus Mini Digger Hire with Man Available Driveways Gravelled Also Tree Service Available New Lawns Laid All work carried out by Experienced Staff Recommendations and Portfolio of work available on request Free Estimates
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Door Hanging, Skirting, Flooring, Fitted Kitchens, Fencing, Decking, General Carpentry, Extensions
07842 195152 01480 811629
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Clas s i fi e d s 72198 chas crowe BCards
14/3/11
Clock Repair Specialist
19:36
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H Visome its
LONGCASE CLOCK REPAIR SPECIALIST Church End, Ravensden, Bedford Tel: 01234 771704 & 07976 876234 Email: chas.crowe@btinternet.com British Horological Institute Associate Member
Construction
Electricians
Frank Plater Electrical Extra sockets - Lighting - Extensions - Re-wires Security Lighting - Showers - Inspections No job too small. Free estimates Established 13 years Tel: 01480 432154 Mob: 07976 797111 Plumbing & Heating
Design Consultancy
Mistletoe Interiors Emma Rees 07885 135478 info@mistletoeinteriors.co.uk www.mistletoeinteriors.co.uk
Interior and exterior design consultancy, home staging, soft furnishings, lighting, accessories, paints, wallpaper
Business gone a bit slow? Let us help! Advertising in The Villager is easy. To find out more call Christa on 07868 369257 or email christa@villagermag.com To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122
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For this month only
FREE
EPC and Sale Ready Conveyancing When you INSTRUCT MALCOLMS to sell your home. Call your nearest office for full details and get moving before Christmas. Terms and conditions apply Please note that if you have instructed another agent we would advise you to check any agreement you may have to ensure you are not liable for more than one commission by instructing us as your agent.
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