Henlow june 15 by debi1977

VILLAGER The

Issue 79 - June 2015

and Town

Life

LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS

Inside this issue

Win Tickets to see Parklife

Budapest

Queen of the Danube

Win £25

in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People in

Langford, Henlow, Shefford, Stanford, Hinxworth, Ickleford, Caldecote, Radwell, Shillington, Pirton, Upper and Lower Stondon, Gravenhurst, Holwell, Meppershall, Baldock, Stotfold, Arlesey, Hitchin & Letchworth

ur Yo EE FRcopy

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Contents Franklin’s Cider

Three Counties Asylum.....................................................4 Knowing Your Consumer Rights.......................................8 Anyone for Tennis?.........................................................10 The Villager Bookshop....................................................13 Volunteers Week............................................................15 Franklin’s Cider...............................................................16 Brow Beaten?.................................................................18 Bathing Beauty - Swimsuit Guide..................................21 Wrest Park - Archaeological Collections..........................22 Helen’s Helpful Hints......................................................24 Fun Quiz.........................................................................26 Care Home Conundrum..................................................27 Employment Matters.....................................................29 Budapest - Queen of the Danube...................................30 From Poldark to Pen.......................................................33 Win Tickets to see Parklife..............................................35

VILLAGER The

Issue 79 - June 2015

and Town

Life

LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS

Inside this issue

Win Tickets to see Parklife

Budapest

Queen of the Danube

Win £25

in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People in

Animal Know-How.........................................................39 Making a Pest of Themselves..........................................43 Butterfly Reincarnation..................................................44 Summer Solstice............................................................49 The Bliss of Diss..............................................................50 Father’s Day....................................................................52 Top 5 Eco Car..................................................................55 Russell Grant’s Horoscopes.............................................56 Puzzle Page....................................................................60 Wordsearch....................................................................65 Why Walk When You Can Run?.......................................67 What’s On.......................................................................68 Ever Fancied a Home Swap Holiday?..............................71 Prize Crossword..............................................................74 New Dementia Group.....................................................76 Book Review..................................................................78

Butterfly Reincarnation

9,500 copies delivered free of charge in the following areas: Henlow, Langford, Astwick, Edworth, Hinxworth, Caldecote, Newnham, Radwell, Bygrave, Shillington, Holwell, Pirton, Upper and Lower Stondon, Shefford, Ashwell End and Stanford (Further bulk drops are made to local shops and busineses in Arlesey, Upper and Lower Stondon, Shefford, Baldock, Letchworth, Hitchin and Stotfold)

Editorial - Richard Knight, Jonathan Vernon-Smith, Louise Addison, Susan Brookes-Morris, Debbie Singh-Bhatti, Kate McLelland, Carol H Scott, Solange Hando, Helen Springer, Catherine Rose, RSPB, Pippa Greenwood, Andy Mydellton, Tim Saunders, James Baggott, Russell Grant, Nooshin Hassan, and Bruce Edwards Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost - 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com Photography - Tunedin123 and Darren Harbar Photography Design and Artwork - Design 9 Tel 07762 969460

ur Yo EE FRcopy

Publishers Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com www.villagermag.com

Disclaimer - 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.

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

History

Three Counties Asylum By Richard Knight

In the early 1850s, the old Bedford asylum was beyond repair and overcrowded with both the living and dead. A new asylum for Herts, Beds and Hunts was proposed. George Fowler Jones drew up plans for the new Three Counties Asylum. He chose a Gothic Romantic ‘corridor’ design so that people did not have to walk through rooms when moving around. Inspired by a visit to Hatfield House, Jones designed corridors that resembled Elizabethan and Jacobean long rooms. Nevertheless, the design was the most modern of its day with hot water, indoor flushing toilets, individual beds, ventilation and views. In strict Victorian rule, the sexes had separate wards, entrances, dining rooms and ‘airing courts’. Builder William Webster of Lincolnshire began work in 1857, using Arlesey white bricks and employing local tradesmen. When the local brickworks could not keep up with demand,

Webster built his own small brickmaking plant on site. The building sub-committee was so pleased that in 1858, employees and their wives were treated to a party to ‘raise the roof’ of the new building. On 8th March 1860, the asylum received its first “inmate pauper lunatics” – six females and six males, aged from 27 to 77. The asylum officially opened on 2nd April, 1860. By 1866, overcrowding was a problem. With poor rural living conditions, people were faking mental illness to be admitted as the asylum offered three meals a day, your own bed, heating, hot water, indoor flushing toilets, free beer, a daily tobacco allowance and free fortnightly entertainment fortnight. By 1874, there were 900 patients and only 71 staff to look after them. Plans to extend were put forward; some patients moved and a chapel and 20-bed detached isolation hospital built. In 1881, the building looked much as it does

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Bedfordshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premier Kitchen

& Bedroom Showroom Since 1974 We would like to welcome you to our new showroom at:

The Old White Horse, 1 High Street, Biggleswade SG18 0JE

Tel: 01767 314344 Email: dave@lolineinteriors.co.uk Web: lolineinteriors.co.uk

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

today, apart from one feature: the clock tower. A huge ‘Jules Verne’ turret housing a massive clock with two faces (one facing north, the other south) it was dismantled in 1902 as being ‘unsightly’ and the bell re-hung in the chapel. No photos survive of the inside of Three Counties but walls would have been lime-washed with bare floorboards and scattered rugs, illuminated by gas lighting that omitted a constant hiss. Baths were made of lead encased in wood with hot water from steam boilers. Iron bedsteads were used throughout with straw mattresses and pillows during the early years. Working in the asylum was hard and a 14-hour shift not uncommon. Violent patients could not be manacled, chained or cuffed and padded cells only used in extreme circumstances. In the early 1920s, the terms “pauper lunatic” and “asylum” were changed to “patient” and “hospital”. Everything with the word ‘asylum’ was disposed of, from headed paper to crockery and attendants’ whistles. Even a street name in Arlesey was changed from Asylum Road to Hospital Road. In 1926, electric lighting and a new cinematograph was installed much to the delight of patients and staff. By the 1930s it was becoming clear that patients could be treated for mental illness. Insulin Coma Therapy (ICT) was one new treatment. Involving gradual insulin overdose until coma was induced, it was thought this caused the mind to relax and become clear. It was ceased in 1947. Electro-Convulsive Therapy (ECT) was introduced in 1939 and TCH’s Dr Robert Russell pioneered its development for depression and schizophrenia. Unique to Three Counties, Dr Russell opened an ECT suite where people could come as out-patients. He was so successful that he set up his own business in Letchworth selling and developing ECT machines. Another radical treatment involved patients being bitten by mosquitoes carrying malaria! A high fever state was believed to cure neurosyphilis, caused by untreated syphilis. By1949, Penicillin had arrived and was proving more useful. Possibly the most barbaric and dangerous operation was introduced at TCH in 1943: the frontal lobotomy. Controversial from the start, it was used on patients with a ‘disruptive violent

nature’ and involved scraping or burning away the frontal lobes of the brain. It was quietly abandoned in the early 1950s. The late 1930s saw expansion: a nurses’ home was opened and in 1939, a new admissions block, hydrotherapy and insulin therapy unit, small operating theatre and two villa wards for convalescent patients were built. Classed as “mental defectives”, TCH admitted children as young as six, who were kept on the same wards as adults. With building work complete, the hospital was requisitioned by the war department and all children were moved to the new Bromham unit. London’s Royal Free Hospital was relocated to the site on a 25-year lease in a series of large wooden huts and huge marquee tents in the hospital grounds. Each was fitted out with wooden flooring, 100 beds, emergency operating theatres and makeshift drainage. Entertainment was still high on the agenda, the highlight being a concert by Vera Lynn! In 1947, the hospital was returned to the authority of Three Counties. The Royal Free moved back to London and, as the ministry still had 17 years of its lease, the London Chest Hospital moved in. Peacetime at TCH saw a full recreation programme including weekly games, crafts, cinema showings, dance nights, plays and variety performances. Bowls and cricket matches were a regular event, popular with staff and patients alike. By 1954, there were 1,210 in-patients and outpatients daily. It was this year that farming at TCH stopped by order of the ministry. Livestock and TCH-owned Wilbury Farm were auctioned. In the late 1950s, the NHS began taking control of mental hospitals. MP Enoch Powell proposed massive changes to mental health policy including the closure of all Victorian mental institutions within a decade, to be replaced by short-term hospitalisation and community-based care. With the arrival of the 1960s, the hospital celebrated its centenary. By 1965, the association with Bedfordshire and Huntingdonshire was over. Thus ended over 100 years of the Three Counties connection. The hospital was re-named Fairfield Hospital and would be known under this banner until it closed.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

IMPACT INTERIORS AND FLOORING HENLOW

FABRICS BLINDS WOODEN SHUTTERS CURTAINS POLES CUSHIONS FLOORING LIGHTING WALLPAPERS CARPETS GIFTS CARDS

FREE SURVEYS AND FITTING

ON WOODEN SHUTTERS

15 High Street, Henlow, Beds, SG16 6BS 01462 816429 info@impact-interiors.co.uk www.impact-interiors.co.uk June Villager advert artwork_ppl.pdf

Licenced partners with S:CRAFT 1

19/05/2015

10:07

The barbecue is back! Come rain or shine, we’ll be barbecuing every summer Sunday 12 noon–3pm. Our chefs will be cooking up delicious cuts of meat, served at your table with tasty salads. And we’ve got Pimm’s and craft beer on ice.

Starting on Sunday 14 June To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Day off for dad Book your table now for our Father’s Day barbecue, Sunday 21 June. 01767 260221

www.coachhousepotton.co.uk

Three Counties Radio

Knowing Your

By Jonathan Vernon-Smith

Consumer Rights

I am becoming increasingly fed up with dealing with retailers right across Beds, Herts, Bucks and beyond who either don’t familiarise themselves with consumer law, or who deliberately attempt to pull the wool over their customer’s eyes. That makes it so important that we all understand the law as consumers. That way, when a retailer talks rubbish, we spot it straight away. I thought this month I would take the opportunity to explain ‘Statutory Rights’. You may have seen on a receipt or contract ‘This does not affect your statutory rights’. This means that anything the retailer has offered you (in terms of returns policy etc) does not change the things you’re entitled to by law. When you purchase any brand new goods or services in the UK you are protected by your ‘statutory rights’ (sale of goods act 1979). All goods must be: a) Fit for purpose b) Of ‘reasonable’ quality (based on the cost) c) Last for a reasonable amount of time (based on the cost) Therefore, if you buy (for example) a fridge for £300, it should last for a ‘reasonable’ amount of time. I would suggest a minimum of 5 years’ worth of ‘reasonable use’ before it blows up. If it develops a manufacturing fault at any time during that period, the retailer IS LIABLE! Any attempt to fob you off, should be met with a firm, but polite explanation of your consumer rights. Bear in mind, the retailer is at liberty to take into account usage you’ve had from a product before it breaks though. For example, if your 4 year old fridge blows up, the retailer could offer to replace it, but will ask for a contribution from you for the 4 years use you had from the previous model. For the first 6 months after purchase, it’s up to the retailer to prove that the fault with the item is NOT their responsibility. After the first 6 months it’s your responsibility. Therefore, my advice when dealing with an obstructive retailer, is to obtain an independent report to confirm that the product has a manufacturing fault, then ask the retailer to not only fix the problem, but also reimburse you for the cost of the report. It is also worth noting that when you first purchase an item, during the first 4 weeks you are entitled to return faulty goods and get a full refund. After this period of time, generally you will have to permit the retailer an opportunity to repair the item if they so wish. So, remember next time the manager of a shop says ‘oh sorry, there’s nothing we can do I’m afraid’. Tell them you understand your statutory rights and if they still fail to help, then call my team on 01582 637450 and I’ll have a little ‘word’ for you!

Jonathan Vernon-Smith not only offers you his consumer advice here but you can listen to The JVS Show tackling your consumer problems every weekday morning from 9am. 8

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Time of Year

Anyone for Tennis? It’s Wimbledon fortnight A broken pony-roller belonging to the All England Croquet and Lawn Tennis Club was the catalyst which led to the birth of the most prestigious tennis tournament in the world: Wimbledon. When the roller broke in 1877 the members decided to hold a lawn tennis competition to raise funds for repair. There were 22 male competitors who each paid a one guinea entrance fee. The champion was 27-year-old Spencer Gore who won 12 guineas and yes, it did rain on the day of the finals! In spite of the weather the competition was such a success that it became an annual event. In fact there have been only ten Wimbledon-free years since that first competition: four years during the First World War and six during the Second World War. At the start the only event was the gentlemen’s singles. Then, in 1884 the ladies’ singles and the gentlemen’s doubles were added, followed by the ladies’ doubles and the mixed doubles in 1913. Only top-ranked amateurs were allowed to play until 1968 when the tournament became ‘open’, meaning that professionals could finally enter. The British dominated The Championships, as they are known, for the first 30 years: Ernest and William Renshaw, and Laurie and Reggie Doherty were national heroes.

But our winning streak didn’t last. Until recently the last British man to win at Wimbledon was Fred Perry in 1936. He won a hat trick of titles just before the Second World War. Then, in the glorious summer of 2013 Andy Murray finally brought the title home to Britain and won the heart of the nation. He’s on a high this year having married his fiancé Kim Sears in the spring. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if he made this a real fairytale year and won Wimbledon again? Wimbledon: Fascinating Facts The first black person to win Wimbledon was a woman, the American Althea Gibson, in 1957 and 1958. The first, and only, black male to win was Arthur Ashe, who beat Jimmy Connors in 1975. The last British woman to win Wimbledon was Virginia Wade in the silver Jubilee year, 1977. It is the only tennis competition where players are required to wear all or predominantly white clothing. In 2002 Anna Kournikova had to change her black shorts for white ones on court! Every year about 27,000 kilos of strawberries, 7,000 litres of cream, 60,000 pints of Pimms and 14,000 bottles of Champagne are consumed by spectators during Wimbledon.

By Louise Addison

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

The Villager Book Shop

Bringing local authors and readers together The Villager and Town Life magazine is delighted to launch a new initiative this month - The Villager Book Shop, aimed at promoting the work of local authors and filling the gap left by the closure of so many small independent bookshops. Our first book on offer is Bedfordshire Through Time by Stephen Jeffrey-Poulter. Published by Amberley Publishing and the latest in its successful ‘Through Time’ series, Stephen’s book contains delightful period photographs of the towns and villages in the county of Bedfordshire. The images have been sourced mainly from the Sandy Chrystal postcard collection held by Bedfordshire & Luton Archives Records Service and many are being published for the first time. Contrasting modern colour pictures provide an interesting insight into the many changes that have taken place over the decades. Stephen is a local author who has previously written other titles for Amberley Publishing including Hoddesdon and Broxbourne Through Time, Hertford Through Time, Ware Through Time and Hertfordshire Through Time. To order your copy of Bedfordshire Through Time, please contact The Villager Bookshop on 01767 261122 or email booksales@villagermag.com. Alternatively, fill out and return the form below to The Villager Book Shop, 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP. The book is priced at £14.99 plus just £1.00 postage and packing.

I would like to order a copy of Bedfordshire Through Time by Stephen Jeffrey-Poulter.



Name: Address:  I enclose a cheque/cash for £15.99 made payable to Villager Publications Ltd. Publication: Paperback, 96 pages, September 2013 Price: £14.99 ISBN: 978-1-4456-1618-6 Size: 235 x 165mm Rights: World, all languages To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Can Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy help you? Who do you know with:

Oxygen Therapy Service

• Cancer? • A neurological condition? • Fibromyalgia? • Sports Injuries? • Diabetic or Leg Ulcers? • TBI? • Broken Bones? • ME/CFS/Extreme Fatigue? Find out if Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can improve your health, accelerate healing, give you more energy. Search online for ‘hyperbaric’ and your condition. This Charity has delivered 60,000 Oxygen Therapy sessions since 1988 – all carefully supervised. Our friendly team responds fast to all enquiries.

Call Mark today on 01462 684214 or email oxygen@hmstc.net

Registered Charity 299524 Hertfordshire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre 30 Campus Five, Letchworth, Herts SG6 2JF www.hertsmstherapy.org.uk

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Time of Year

Volunteers Week 1st -7th June 2015 Volunteers’ week is a fantastic annual celebration of the amazing work that millions of volunteers do across the UK. It’s been running for over thirty years and aims to showcase volunteering work and its benefits. Volunteers now work in many different types of organisations. Last year in my immediate local area I interviewed a small sample and they included: dog-walkers for the Retired Greyhound Trust, a lady who was part of the costume team at a theatre, a school governor and a volunteer baker at one of the oldest watermills in Birmingham. There are a vast array of options for all ages and abilities. You can volunteer in your local neighbourhood, online or even abroad. Close to home, you could for instance, work in a charity shop, run a scout group, take part in conservation work at your local canal, help do the administrative tasks for a charity, be a Guide at a National Trust Stately Home or befriend those in hospital for instance Some employers give staff paid time off to do occasional volunteering and some have employersupported volunteering schemes To find out about opportunities, you can contact charities and organisations directly or get in touch with your local Volunteer Centre. One of the main online resources is the National Council

of Voluntary Organisation website: - https:// www.ncvo.org.uk . On there, you can find links to thousands of positions as well as lots of valuable information. They suggest that if you are looking for a voluntary role, you firstly need to consider what type of cause you want to work for and then seek out relevant organisations. When you have selected some preferred organisations, you should research them thoroughly and try to speak to some of those who currently volunteer for them to find out what it’s really like. You should also consider the skills you have to offer or want to acquire and the time you have available so that you can select the most suitable type of role. It’s also a good idea to undertake a trial period or shadowing so that both parties can see if it will be a good fit. There are many potential benefits to volunteering including: a sense of pride at having given something back to your community, making new friends, a chance to gain new skills and work in an environment or for a cause that you are passionate about. If you’d like to add travelling to your outcomes, you could also consider volunteering abroad. Take a look at the websites such as Volunteer Services Overseas, http://www.vsointernational.org, Tourist Concern http://tourismconcern.org.uk/volunteer and UN Volunteers http://www.unv.org to find out more. By Susan Brookes-Morris

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Local News

Franklin’s Cider

Bedfordshire’s Newest Cider Maker

Some of you may have downed a pint or two of Dunton Cider over the last few years. This was a small, hobby scale operation producing cider in the village of Dunton for sale through local pubs and beer festivals. In 2013 Simon Bailes, half of the team responsible for Dunton Cider was made redundant after twenty years working in the waste industry and made the decision to turn making cider into a full time job and the process of scaling up production began. In January 2014 Franklin’s Cider was established (Franklin is one of Simon’s middle names) and the first sixteen tonnes of apples were sourced, pressed and fermentation started in the Cidery at Church Farm Dunton. In the autumn of 2014 a further forty tonnes of apples were procured and the cider from these apples is now maturing nicely. The principles of Franklin’s Cider are simple. Simon uses locally sourced apples to produce cider from 100% fresh apple juice (no concentrates or added flavourings) to be sold into local markets. He is very keen to generate public involvement by getting people to pick apples and to bring them to the cidery to be swapped for cider or apple juice. As we get into the autumn of 2015 and your apples start to ripen give Simon a shout (details below) and he will talk you through how to get your apples to the cidery. If you have a large number of apple trees, a remnant of an old orchard, perhaps, Simon may be

able to arrange for the apples to be picked. If you fancy learning how to make cider Simon is also offering a number of cider making courses in the autumn where you can learn all of the basics of selecting apples, pressing them and then fermenting the resulting juice. Details can be found on the website. Simon is also happy to show people around the cidery or to give presentations to local group. If you would be interested in visiting the cidery or booking a presentation, give Simon a call or drop him an e mail. Also, don’t forget the Dunton Wassail which takes place every January where Simon combines his love for cider with his other passion, folk music, and holds a celebration of music and cider in the orchard at Church farm, Dunton. This is a free event (details are on the Dunton Folk web site, www. duntonfolk.co.uk) and is open to all the family. It involves morris dancing, mulled cider, wassailing the apple trees, a mummers play and a music session in the March Hare pub. A fantastic evening! The cidery is licensed for sale of cider to the public so if you want to pick some up, give Simon a ring and he will arrange to meet you at the cidery. You can have a look round while collecting your cider. Simon can be contacted on 01767 310 424, franklinscider@outlook.com or via the Franklin’s Cider website www.franklinscider.co.uk.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Adoption information evenings: First Wednesday of every month At our Milton Keynes and Peterborough offices - see website for details

Adoption Connections

Many children are currently in care and need a new family… could you be that family?

St. Francis’ Children’s Society is a voluntary adoption agency, rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. We welcome all kinds of adopters for all kinds of children, regardless of age, race, cultural background, religion, marital status or sexual orientation.

www.sfcs.org.uk enquiries@sfcs.org.uk

Connecting the Adoption Circle Registered Charity No. 211670

Milton Keynes: Peterborough:

01908 572700 01733 475581

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 and 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

Winner of Wedding Industr y Exper t Awards 2013-2014 To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Health & Beauty

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

Brow Beaten? I was born with my dad’s eyebrows. Naturally thick, shapeless and unsightly, they looked like two caterpillars stuck to my forehead. At age twelve I followed the fashion of the day and plucked away until they were within a whisper of totally disappearing - and I was on the point of fainting! Today, my eyebrows are thin, shapeless and unsightly and I’m resigned to them looking that way forever. Or rather I was… Internet searches assure me that no matter how over-plucked, over-waxed or over-groomed your eyebrows may be, there is hope still for beautiful, arched, perfectly coiffed specimens. The most extreme method might be an eyebrow transplant (yes really!), but there are other less drastic options! Most of us ladies – and the odd gent too – need to lose a few hairs from the brow line. The easiest solution is tweezing away the stray hairs yourself, but the results are short-lived and the risk of creating the wrong shape is high. Better results can be achieved by a professional, with waxing and threading methods achieving hair removal lasting around 4-6 weeks. Fair or very thin eyebrows may benefit from being tinted. Like hair dye, this changes the colour and lasts 4-6 weeks. A popular look at the moment is HD (High Definition) Brows which focus on shape and design and promise to give you sleek, stylish brows like those enjoyed by the stars. A seven step process

that includes a consultation followed by tinting, waxing, threading, tweezing, trimming and finishing with a pencil or brush to fill in any gaps, is described as more than just shaping or tidying but actual eyebrow artistry! With your brows looking beautiful brows it’s time to move on to the eyelashes. There are numerous mascaras around promising volume, length and thickness, and I can vouch for some of them actually working! My daughter’s naturally long lashes were taken to another level following the application of a new mascara. But what else is on offer? Tinting is an option if your lashes are particularly fair, and it’s not just for girls. I remember the difference it made to my friend’s son after his lashes were darkened. Curling makes straight lashes appear longer, and creates the illusion of wider, brighter, more feminine eyes. Lash-perming, which is best carried out by a professional, can make the results can last for six weeks, which is great for holidays or if you have any big events lined up. Finally, how about having eyelash extensions? This is one of the UK’s fastest growing beauty treatments and involves gluing separate synthetic eyelashes to individual natural lashes to give a luscious, natural look. The amount of curl, length or thickness can vary according to your personal preference and the results last for 8-12 weeks depending on your natural lash growth cycle.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Look beautifully bronzed this June, Sienna Spray Tan just £15 Holiday special: Gel nails, Gel pedicure, Eyelash tint and Sienna spray tan all for just £65, a saving of £15! Go on... Treat yourself!! Luxury Pedicures Neal’s Yard Facials Massage & Body treatments Waxing, Hollywood & Brazilian Eye Treatments Biosculpture Gel Nails

8 Cherry Trees, Lower Stondon, Beds, SG16 6DT e. fayes_beauty_hut@yahoo.co.uk www.fayesbeautyhut.com t. 07912 645310

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Time of Year

Bathing beauty

Swimsuit Guide

A friend of mine was delighted recently to win a swimming lesson with former Olympic breaststroke champion Duncan Goodhew, but her initial euphoria was soon replaced with feelings of dread as she contemplated what to wear for her big occasion. The ultimate, most terrifying stage fright – with the exception of total nudity – is the bathing suit. Thoughts about whether “my bum looks big in this” pale into insignificance as we consider exposing every bump and lump imaginable in the most revealing item next to our birthday suit! Everyone has something about their body that they think looks horrible in a swimsuit, so when looking for the ideal swimwear, the secret is to find something that creates a sense of balance and draws attention to the most flattering parts of our figure whilst masking our trouble spots. Most of us fit into three problem shapes – pear, apple and straight (or athletic). Pears are heavy around the hips and thighs, and wearing a plunging neckline or eye-catching top with ruffles or embellishments will make the bust look bigger and will also draw attention away from the heavier bottom half. Padded, push up tops make boobs look bigger and bandeau tops make the bust appear wider. High cut bottoms make the legs look longer if this is also an issue. Apples have large busts and thick waists with comparatively small hips. Boy shorts make the hips look wider and help to give balance. Tops that are cut straight

across help to minimise large busts, and for extra support bikini tops should be under-wired, and one piece suits should have higher backs. If finding the perfect fit for both top and bottom halves is a problem, don’t be afraid to buy different sized separates in complimentary designs. For example bottoms in a bright or patterned fabric and a top in a plain, darker fabric, will help draw attention away from the bust. If you need to disguise a large tummy, a one piece suit with ruched panels or shirring will hide bulges and create definition, as will a wrap over design with crossover fabric. Straight shapes need to create the illusion of more curves, and the

monokini is great for this, as is a one-piece with strategically placed cuts or slits. Bold prints, ruffles and embellishments on tops and bottoms accentuate the bust and hip lines, and skimpier bikini bottoms plus side ties will make your bottom appear curvier. Finally, before selecting your swimwear, consider how and when you plan on wearing it. Whether you intend to go swimming or scuba diving, or spend your time sunbathing will have an influence on the style, fabric and even the colour you choose.

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Local News

Almost 1,000 visitors have ventured into the Aladdin’s cave of archaeological collections at

Wrest Park

Last May, English Heritage gave visitors to Wrest Park in Bedfordshire the opportunity to go beyond the grounds and discover an Aladdin’s cave of wonder, as a warehouse containing over 153,000 historical artefacts, spanning over 2,000 years of England’s history opened its doors to the public with special monthly tours and pre-bookable group tours. Now, a year on, following such a great success with almost 1,000 visitors through the Archaeological Collections Store doors, the team of volunteers who lead the tours are pleased to announce a new season of events. Just as before, visitors will have the opportunity on the first Monday of every month[*] at 11am and 2pm, to journey through history in one location discovering collections as varied as pre-historic antlers and Roman bridges to Victorian banisters and roof beams. As they discover how English Heritage care for these unique finds – great and small – so that future generations can appreciate them. New for this year, on July 20, August 17 and September 21 there will be a ‘Roman Special’ tour taking visitors back 2000 years to explore fascinating artefacts from Wroxeter, Britain’s fourth largest Roman city. This unique event will enable visitors to experience items from the collections not normally on display, from everyday items such as Roman coins, jewellery and pottery, to artefacts reflecting the architectural scale of the city. Then on July 6 and September 7 there will be a Twilight Tour at 5pm for those who may have not been previously able to attend due to work commitments. The English Heritage archaeological collections store contains a vast array of items ranging

from the small; buckles, brooches and coins, to fireplaces, doors and even an enormous crane used for changing street light bulbs in Covent Garden. This treasure trove - which adds up to a third of English Heritage’s total stored collection contains archaeological pieces unearthed at sites around the country, including Wroxeter Roman Site, Haughmond Abbey in Shropshire and Elizabethan Kirby Hall in Northamptonshire. The store is also now home to more than 6,000 objects from London houses, which map the capital’s architecture from the 17th to the 19th centuries. Part of this collection includes nearly 1,000 wallpapers. The wallpapers, in particular, have found their ideal home, for Wrest Park boasts its own rare wall coverings in the De Grey family mansion (also available to visit on a pre-bookable guided tour on the first Sunday of every month) and this great wealth of material is now much easier for researchers to access. Charlotte Newman, English Heritage Curator said “we have been thrilled over the past year to see how many visitors have wanted to see behind the scenes in the store and share in our enthusiasm and passion for looking after our collections not normally on display and we are pleased to continue the tours for this year and also introduce some additional tours with new content for anyone who would like to revisit and discover even more!” The tours running at the Archaeological Collections Store and of the Wallpaper Rooms are just an extra £3 per person on top of standard admission to the House and Gardens. A tour can be booked on the day on a first-come, first-served basis or can be prebooked by calling reception on 01525 860000.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

mp ca

Ladi

y Onl Boot s

Saturday’s @ 8.30am Upper Stondon Recreation ground First session Free –Normal cost £5 per session Are you ready to embark on your rapid fat loss journey with 1 LIFE purefitness? Do you have the drive and passion for something different in your life? The boot camp will consist of many different styles of training from body weight exercises to interval training. These two combined methods are proven to increase your metabolism giving rapid weight loss with the correct diet. Work as a team and progress with your weight loss and fitness goals together. Fun outside training done in a professional progressive way. Also available for individual and group Personal Training sessions

Be a lion not a sheep, live your life to the full Gavin Morris @ 1lifepurefitness 07768 264732

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Couples Counsellor

Helen’s Helpful Hints

No. 11 - Choose your Feeling

When you’re feeling a negative emotion and wish to switch to a more positive one, this is a great exercise to use. Take several deep breaths, breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth. Expand your stomach as you inhale and allow it to collapse as you exhale. After you’ve taken a few breaths, on your next breath, inhale and pause for a second at the height of the in-breath. Just before you exhale, turn your awareness inwards and notice the relief you’re already feeling. Exhale and completely release the emotion. Continue to breathe slowly and deeply, making a new feeling choice.

You may wish to make a statement such as “I choose to feel appreciative and optimistic”. As you inhale, breathe in the new feeling; as you exhale, release any negative feeling. This is a simple technique that helps you to feel good by consciously connecting to your inner self and choosing more positive emotions. If this does not work, do give me a call. I am a Certified Relate Individual and couple counsellor, MBACP with 29 years experience. Before you decide, you can have up to a half hour free counselling on the telephone or on Skype to assess if counselling is right for you. Located in Pirton Herts. Call me, Helen Springer for an appointment. I can fix a fee to suit your pocket. Telephone 01462 713685. Email: helen@experiencedcounsellors.com website: www.experiencedcounsellors.com or sprinsib@globalnet.co.uk www.counsellorsandcounselling.co.uk

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Let us help you get your business off to a flying start VILLAGER The

The

Issue 54 - Octobe

VILLAGER

FR our co EE py

and Town

ILL AGEToR wn Life

LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE

• LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL

r 2013

Issue 56 - December 2013

and Town

F You coRE r py E

Life

LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS

Life

VILLAGER The

Issue 58 - February 2014

CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCT

LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE

Inside this issue

The Ultimate

and

LOCAL NEW

Inside this issue

£25 in our Prize

Buckde all surrounding areas The Hemingfords and

ur Yo EEy FRco1 p

Bringing Local Business

Banish

those winter

Buckden, Brampton, Cambourne Local People , Godmanchester, The Hemingford and all surrounding villages s every month

Local People l Business to ster, Bringing Locaton, Cambourne, Godmanches every month Buckden, Bramp and all surrounding village The Hemingfords

and Town

LOCAL CHAR

ITIES • LOCA

Life

L PRODUCTS

Banish

Bringing Local Business to Local People

WinCovering:n • Brampton • Cambourne • Godmanchester

SERVICES •

Mother’s Day er’s Day

in our Prize CrosswordMak e your Moth

Buckden, Brampton, Cambourne, Godmanchester, The Hemingfords and all surrounding villages every month

Crossword

LE • LOCAL

those winter blue Inside this issue Win £25Happy

£50 in our bumper Christmas prize crossword

to buy

h 2014

S • LOCAL PEOP

for Local Businesses

Win

issue

Waryatc2014h Bir6thd Janu Big Garden 25-2 The Best Way a car

Free Advice & Support

How to make a Christmas Wreath

Inside this

VILLAGER The

Life

CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCT

Issue 59 - Marc

Christmas Survival Guide

L PRODUCTS ary 2014 ITIES • LOCA Issue 57 - Janu LOCAL CHAR SERVICES • LE • LOCAL S • LOCAL PEOP

LOCAL NEW

and Town

• LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL

blues

Win £25

in our Prize Crossword ur Yo EE Ropy FBring c ing Loca

Buckden, Bramp l Busi ness to Loca l People and all surrou ton, Cambourne, Godm anchester, The nding village Hemingfords s every month

ur Yo EE FRcopy

Our award winning magazines offer a unique local advertising platform. Printed on high quality paper we are still able to offer incredible prices along with a second-to-none service, professional advert design and a team just waiting to help you. With over 9,500 copies being delivered door to door every month can your business wait any longer to be in The Villager? Advertising in The Villager and Town Life could not be easier, for further information or to book your advertising space please call Nigel on 01767 261122 or e-mail nigel@villagermag.com or visit our website www.villagermag.com

Why advertise anywhere else? To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Fun Quiz - Toys and Games 1. What toy would you need to perform tricks called walk the dog and the cat’s cradle? 2. Which game has a name that is derived from a Swahili word meaning “to build”? 3. Named toy of the year for 1998 by the British Association of Toy Retailers, which electronic toy would speak its own language initially before gradually starting to speak more and more English? 4. What colour are the hotels in a standard game of Monopoly? 5. First introduced in the 18th century, what type of puzzles were named after the tool that was used to make them? 6. In which game might you visit Lemonade Lake, Chocolate Mountains, Minty Meadow and Easter Bunny Hills? 7. Which of Andy’s toys in the Toy Story films wears a black bowler hat? 8. In a standard game of Battleship, how many ships do you have to sink to win? 9. Which American toy company was founded in 1945 by Harold Matson and Elliot Handler? 10. What is the only non-metallic murder weapon in the game of Cluedo?

Before

After

1. A yo-yo 2. Jenga 3. The Furby 4. Red 5. Jigsaw puzzles (a jigsaw would be used to cut out the pieces) 6. Candy Crush Saga 7. Mr Potato Head 8. Five 9. Mattel (from parts of their names “mat” and “el” 10. The ropes

Reassurance when you need it most

Neville Funeral Service

24 Clifton Road Sheﬀord SG17 5AE t: 01462 813258 e: sheﬀord@nevillefuneralservice.com

96 Walsworth Road Hitchin SG4 9SU t: 01462 444910 e: hitchin@nevillefuneralservice.com

(inc George Squire & Son since 1976)

(inc David J. Binks since 2005)

www.nevillefuneralservice.com 26

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Time of Life

By Kate McLelland

Care Home Conundrum: Responding to a relative’s complaints When I visited my 92-year-old mother at her residential care home recently, she wasn’t in a good mood. Her purse was missing and she was convinced that the cleaners were to blame: “They’ve stolen it! And I had thirty pounds in there.” It wasn’t until she stood up, ready to accompany me to the manager’s office, that I realised she had been sitting on it all the time. It’s often hard to know what to do when someone who may be suffering from mild dementia or confusion complains about a care issue. Should you take their concern seriously or just put it down to their age and mental condition? Better safe than sorry Moira Wilson from Cumbria was worried when her elderly aunt kept insisting that a young male, carer – Jack - was bothering her. “The home had a good reputation so I didn’t like to complain,” says Moira. “But to my great relief the manager told me that they had no male carers currently working there.” Moira’s decision to check out her aunt’s complaint – no matter how far-fetched it sounded – was undoubtedly the right course of action. Confusion in elderly people can lead them to make false accusations but the same confusion also makes it easy for care workers to get away with poor standards of care and sometimes, actual abuse.

Sending out a signal My mother – who is almost blind and has limited mobility – gets help with showering twice a week at her nursing home. When, on a number of occasions, she told me that she hadn’t been washed “Because the shower isn’t working”, I began to be suspicious. On some days it mysteriously refused to work, particularly when a certain carer was on duty. All it took was a friendly email followed by a brief chat with the manager to sort out the problem. Sometimes the very act of making an enquiry can signal to staff who are not pulling their weight that their actions are being monitored. New legislation to combat abuse Recently new legislation has been introduced in response to the Mid-Staffs and Winterbourne View abuse cases. The Care Act 2014 comes into force in two stages, between April 2015 and April 2016, providing a new statutory basis for safeguarding vulnerable adults and making it easier to prosecute managers who have allowed an abusive culture to exist in their organisations. The Act also introduces a new, lower threshold for lodging a complaint with a local authority where abuse is suspected. An official enquiry can now be triggered if there is a “reasonable cause to suspect” abuse and this means that problems can be reported much earlier. The right time to complain Your elderly relative will inevitably have minor niggles about the care they are receiving but it’s important to keep listening. If you detect that an issue is causing real anxiety or distress, then you must act. If they are able to explain the problem, you should encourage and support them as they speak to the care supervisor or manager. If not, don’t be afraid to approach these people yourself: a good care home should welcome your feedback. Making a complaint is never easy, but it’s a small price to pay if it means that someone you love will receive better care and attention in future.

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

TEMPLARS CROSS LODGE We take time to listen and ﬁnd the best way forward Contact us to arrange your free initial 30 minute visit (We are happy to come to you for a small extra charge)

www.templarscrosslodge.co.uk Close to Baldock town centre in spacious surroundings this motel style Bed & Breakfast offers off road parking. • continental breakfast • large luxury en-suite rooms • free wifi internet access • sky tv/dvd player • fridge in room • private location • close to train station • major credit cards taken

Tel: 07970 162753

Email: ami@amcofm.co.uk or sally@amcofm.co.uk North Road, Baldock, Hertfordshire SG7 5DN

EBAY COLLECTIONS

Wills Our staﬀ have successfully drafted Wills for many years; truly we are experts.

£135 inc. Single Will

£199 inc. Mirror Wills

Probate

Helping you prove a Will after death.

£545 inc. Plus Court fees [unless it is a huge estate] to obtain a Grant of Probate from the Court

Lasting Power of Attorney Arranging for a relative/friend to act on your behalf if you lose mental capacity.

£350 inc. Plus Court fees to draft & register with Public Guardian Oﬃce Contact us for some friendly advice: 01462 674767 Abbeyhill 507 Broadway Letchworth SG6 3PT mhprobateservices@gmail.com

Local & Reliable

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Employment

Employment Matters Pension Auto-Enrolment What you Need to Know

If you employ people, the first thing you need to know is that there is no opt out of a pension! The business has to put a pension in place although employees can opt out after they have been autoenrolled. Which employers are affected? Almost all employers are affected whether you employ 1 or 1,000 people. Which employers are not affected? If you are the director and sole employee of your company, there is no requirement to auto enrol. Which workers are not affected? Self-employed contractors. Which workers are affected? All workers between age 16 and 75 who usually work in the UK. ‘Workers’ includes employees and others who are contracted to work for you, except as part of their own business. Agency workers are included, and you are likely to be responsible if you pay them directly. Workers are ‘eligible jobholders’ if they are aged 22 or over; are under state pension age (a moving target) and earn more than £10,000 p.a. This figure currently matches the income tax personal allowance. Workers are ‘non-eligible jobholders’ if they earn more than £5,772 a year and are not eligible jobholders (under 22 or over state pension age). They must be offered a pension on the same basis as eligible jobholders, but must apply to join rather than being automatically enrolled. Workers are ‘entitled workers’ if they are over 16 years but earn under £5,772 a year, and employers have to offer them access to a pension scheme,

but do not have to pay into it. National Employment Savings Trust – NEST To assist smaller employers with the cost and admin burden of auto-enrolment, the Government has established a pension scheme: National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) which operates in broadly the same way as other defined contribution occupational pension schemes but it is not for profit so the costs are lower. However NEST contributions are subject to a cap making it unattractive to those on high salaries or older employees who want to top up their pension pots. Funds cannot be transferred into or out of NEST so if a worker leaves and joins an employer with a private scheme they will be unable to transfer their pension savings. Independent Financial Planning Advisors IFAs can consult on any and all products that they think meet your auto-enrolment needs covering the whole market and the IFA cost structure tends to split into three main areas: 1) Design only: The IFA will assess the workforce and recommend an appropriate scheme; 2) Design and Implement: For employers who would like the IFA to recommend a scheme, arrange implementation and act as a first point of contact for all employees; 3) Design, Implement and Maintain: For employers who would like the IFA to design and implement the solution, and then maintain the scheme with ongoing support for the business, employees and payroll provider. Your key action is to start planning 12 months in advance of your staging date. Carol H Scott

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Travel By Solange Hando

Budapest ‘Queen of the Danube’ Set in the Carpathian basin, Hungary’s capital is said to rank among the most beautiful cities in Europe. Here, the legendary Danube flows through the heart of town, meandering romantically around green islands and under iconic bridges. On the west bank, the wooded hills of Buda climb to 527 metres while to the east, the plain of Pest rises gently into the distance. Stroll along the promenade or sail on the Danube and as you gaze at the elegant façades, the domes and spires glistening with mosaics, it’s easy to see why the river banks form an integral part of the city’s World Heritage. On the eastern side, beyond the superb Chain Bridge guarded by lion statues, pride of place goes to the grandiose Parliament Building, bristling with pinnacles and turrets and topped by a splendid red dome. Stretching 268 metres along the river, with 27 gates, 691 rooms and a stunning 20kms of stairways, it was inaugurated in 1896 for the Millennium which marked 1000 years of Hungarian history. It is home to the Crown Jewels and affectionately known as the ‘Mother of the Country’. On the Buda side, the Royal Palace rises on Castle Hill, one of the prettiest districts around with cobbled squares and traditional buildings. There are imposing statues and wrought iron gates, stylish colonnades and archways, a lofty church with neo-Gothic ornaments and the must-see Fisherman’s Bastion, named after the Guild once responsible for its upkeep, now a top attraction for its unrivalled views over the river and city.

Beyond its historical complex, Buda is a select residential area while down town, Pest is all hustle and bustle, its streets lined with gleaming shops and architectural gems, ranging from neo-Gothic and Renaissance to Baroque, Ottoman and Art Nouveau. Andrassy Avenue, the 2.5 km long commercial hub, is protected by UNESCO, alongside the Millennium Underground Railway which follows the same route, starting a few steps from St Stephen’s Basilica and stretching all the way to the city park. Among the many notable sights are the State Opera House, the nearby Franz Liszt Academy of Music and at the entrance to the park, the Museum of Fine Arts and Heroes’ Square where the semi-circular memorial is described as ‘a history book made of stone’. With a lake which is an ice rink in winter, Botanical Gardens and medicinal baths boasting 18 pools in and outdoors, the park is a favourite haunt of city folks, just one of many venues where you can relax in this ‘land of 1000 hot springs.’ There are over 100 of them in and around town, including those on Gellert Hill prized since Roman times. The hill offers sweeping vistas over the city. But sooner or later, the Danube calls you back with waterside restaurants, panoramic cruises and bridges revealing ever changing views and architectural styles, from the contemporary Elizabeth Bridge to the iron Liberty Bridge where the last silver rivet was put in place by Franz Joseph, Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary. Budapest suffered much destruction in the past, but with its beautifully restored buildings, the ‘Queen of the Danube’ truly deserves its place among Europe’s finest cities.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

WObUrN FOreST HOLIday VILLage

career OPPOrTUNITIeS

Nestled in a 365 acre forest, Woburn Forest boasts beautiful undulating woodland landscapes, the largest Subtropical Swimming Paradise, magical views over the lake and forest with modern Lodges bringing guests closer to nature. We have a variety of positions with hours to fit around your lifestyle. There are various contracts available. You will come into regular contact with our guests so you will need to have a pleasant and helpful nature. Transport is available for some of our positions in the local area. To apply please visit centerparcscareers.co.uk, click on Job Search, then choose the Woburn location or alternatively sign up to receive regular job alerts. Center Parcs, Woburn Forest Holiday Village, Millbrook, Bedford, MK45 2HZ

at center Parcs, we want our people to share in the success their hard work brings, enjoy a sense of wellbeing and a good lifestyle, and make the most of their time with us. We offer unique benefits such as: • discounted center Parcs breaks • day visitor passes • Free use of village facilities

www.centerparcs.co.uk

Martin Lewis is not the only person that can help you save money! The team at Will Trust and Protect are money saving experts too! We want to make sure that the families in our area benefit from our expert advice. If you want to pay lower taxes to the government, reduce monthly premiums on your insurance plans and get the best interest rate available on your mortgage, then speak to us today and we will provide you with the solution that will fit your needs.

WILL TRUST &

PROTECT Will/Trust Advice You decide where your money and children go, not the government.

Lasting Power of Attorney If you become incapacitated, you choose who decides your future.

Inheritance Tax Advice Stop the government taxing your family again after your death.

Insurance Advice We’ll help you find better cover and cheaper premiums.

Mortgage Advice We will find you the best mortgage rate available in today’s market.

Conveyancing We will price-match legal costs for buying and selling your home.

Please call us on 01462 615233 to arrange a convenient time for an informal consultation or email info@willtrustandprotect.co.uk You can visit us Monday to Saturday at Will Trust & Protect, 17a High Street, Shefford, Bedfordshire SG17 5DD YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP THE REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

BEFORE

AFTER

Builders Ltd. General Builders Paul Crane 07815 578768 / 01438 357757 infocranebuilders@gmail.com

www.cranebuildersltd.co.uk 1 PARK LANE – HENLOW – BEDS – SG16 6AT

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Local News

From Poldark to Pen Many will have lamented the end of the new lauded series of BBC’s Poldark. Despite playing the part of Doctor Choake, whose curmudgeonly bedside manner left a lot to be desired, in person, actor Robert Daws is warm, friendly and modest, particularly as it turns out he is also a talented writer. He is currently helping to organise the second annual Ampthill Literary Festival which takes place on 11th July at Parkside Hall with headline guest stars Barry Norman, Jenny Éclair, and actor John Challis (best known for his role as Boycie in Only Fools and Horses). Festival fringe events began at the end of April with ‘Beer & Books’ when Robert took to the stage with actor wife Amy Robbins at Ampthill Cricket Pavilion to perform an extract from local author P.J. Whiteley’s new romantic comedy, Close of Play. Robert will be acting as Master of Ceremonies at the event itself and his brotherin-law, the well-known Ted Robbins, will be coming along to award prizes for the children’s festival and writing competition which takes place in the morning. Robert, who lives in Ampthill, published his first bestselling crime novel, The Rock in 2012. He became interested in crime fiction while co-writing and presenting the detective series Trueman and Riley for Radio 4. The Rock is set on Gibraltar, a place that Robert has been visiting for 25 years and knows well. He explains: “It has the second oldest police force after the London Met and I thought it was an interesting setting for a crime novel.” The novels centre around Detective Sergeant Tamara Sullivan who finds herself knee-deep in murder mystery when she is seconded by the London Metropolitan Police Service to Gibraltar. Robert has been able to find plenty of time to write on location while acting as there is a lot of “waiting around”. He also admits: “Now that I’m older and have a young family, there are many acting jobs I would rather not do and I am lucky enough to be able to pick and choose.” Expected to be launched mid- autumn, Robert’s second novel, The Poisoned Rock, opens during WWII. “Gibraltar was a small, crucially strategic

By Catherine Rose

piece of territory during the war,” says Robert “and there was a lot of agent activity going on.” The plot is based on a wartime case that has repercussions on the present day. Despite being a writer, Robert’s own literary achievements at the festival will be kept low key. “Actually, the thing I really enjoy is the technical side: the sound, lights and stage building” he confesses. Robert is currently in the midst of having the second book in his detective series published and is already halfway through writing the third. “I have enough stories for ten books!” He laughs and adds that “things are progressing very creatively” on the television front. For more information on Ampthill Literary Festival and how to attend, please visit www.amplitfest.co.uk

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

To the tasteful homeowner in pursuit of a thoughtfully designed kitchen and living area. At we understand the pleasure good kitchen design brings to everyday life. From materials, colours, craftsmanship, clever storage and ample worktop space for any size of room, can make your vision for the perfect kitchen real.

For more information visit arcandbe.com call us now on

01438 729 610 Showroom â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Open by appointment: 9 Weston Barns, Hitchin Road, Weston, Hitchin, Hertfordshire SG4 7AX arc+be 1/2 page.indd 1

18/03/2015 14:38

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

N O I T I T E P M O C

Win Tickets to see

Parklife

LPH Concerts and The Pad Presents... ParkLive - Happy Mondays, Ash, Stereo MCs & The Scruff Bedford Park Friday 31st July 2015 Gates open at 6pm LPH concerts, the promoters for the Bedford Park Concert series this summer have teamed up with The Pad Presents to bring PARKLIVE to town, which will include legendary band The Happy Mondays headlining the Friday night concert. The seminal Manchester band, changed musical culture forever and were one of the biggest bands of the Madchester era. They released 2 cult albums on Tony Wilson’s legendary Factory Records label ‘Squirell & Gman’ and ‘Bummed’ before rising to huge acclaim in 1990 with the release of ‘Thrills Pills & Bellyaches’ which spawned the immortal hit singles Step On, Kinky Afro, thrusting them into mainstream consciousness as they went on to tour and top festival line ups all over the world. Other classic Mondays tunes include Lazyitis, Loose Fit, Bobs Yer Uncle, W.F. L and the club anthem ’24 Hour party people’ - a track title that went on to inspire a film of the same name which recounted the Factory Records glory days and all the chaos that came with it. In recent years the band have reunited with the full original line up, including front man Shaun Ryder

alongside his maraca shaking vibes man Bez as well as backing singer Rowetta. Special guests for the evening are Belfast pop punk indie icons Ash. The Tim Wheeler fronted stalwarts of indie have been together for over 20 years and were one of the movers and shakers of the Britpop era, stacking up 5 top 10 albums and an incredible run of 18 top 40 singles including Girl From Mars, Goldfinger, Shining Light, Burn Baby Burn and the movie theme tune A Life Less Ordinary. Ash are back on tour all over the UK this year including many major music festivals but are pleased to be making the stop off to Bedford in July having sold out Bedford Corn Exchange back in July 2013. Support comes from the Stereo MC’s who emerged out of the UK indie dance scene in the late 80s early 90’s with the release of the albums 33,45,78, Supernatural and the Brit Award winning album Connected, the latter which spawned their biggest single successes with the title track Connected, Step it Up and Ground Level. Opening up the show are local boys The Scruff. Tickets are £32.50 including booking fees, and can be purchased from www.lphconcerts.co.uk and www.thepadpresents.com The Villager and Town Life has a pair of tickets to give away for the Parklife Event. To enter, simply email editor@villagermag.com with the heading ‘Parklife Entry’ and include your name, address and telephone number. A winner will be picked at random. Closing Date: 12th June 2015

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

TYNEHILL Boarding Kennels and Cattery

The kennels your dog would choose!

Not Just A Dog offer a wide range of premium dog products including Dog Beds, Collars, Toys and Food. We also stock accessories such as Dog Coats, Knits, Neckerchiefs and Dog Mats. Mutts & Hounds, Dogs & Horses, TurtleMat, Billy & Margot

ok to find

Like us on Facebo

10% discount for new customers • • • • • • •

Top quality kennels and cattery Fully licensed and insured Clean and hygienic environment Dogs £11.50 to £14.50 Cats £7.25 10% discount for family groups Our dogs are happy dogs!

Better kennels are only minutes away...

www.tynehillkennelsandcattery.co.uk 01462 850606

nt codes!

the latest discou

www.notjustadog.co.uk

AD 1/4 page.indd 1

Shillington Road, Lower Stondon, Beds, SG16 6JX

14/04/2015 16:23

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Pets

Animal Know-How Warning to Bedfordshire’s dog owners The RSPCA urges dog owners across the county to take extra precautions when out walking their pets this spring and summer. This is to help prevent the spread of the deadly disease, Alabama Rot (CRGV). Many pet owners may not have heard of this mysterious illness. It first appeared in the late 1980s affecting greyhounds in America and has, unfortunately, now spread to at least 18 counties in England. 46 cases have been confirmed since December 2013 – which is an increase of 460 per cent compared to the period from November 2012 to November 2013. One case has been found in Bedford to date. Vets4Pets has launched an interactive guide to provide dog owners with information on the disease, including confirmed locations and tips on how to reduce the risk of dogs becoming infected (www.vets4pets.com/stop-alabamarot/). Unfortunately, if not spotted early, Alabama Rot can lead to sudden and potentially fatal kidney failure. Knowing the warning signs is key to treating the disease. If caught early your vet can

evaluate if your dog has contracted this dangerous condition. It is thought that the disease is picked up on the paws and legs on muddy walks, so always: • wash off woodland mud • check for signs (a skin lesion – which appears as a distinct swelling, a patch of red skin, or open and ulcer like) • if in doubt, call your vet. The cause of CRGV is still unknown, so there is no known way to prevent your dog from contracting the disease. In addition, there have been cases of closely associated dogs becoming affected – so the RSPCA warns pet owners to be vigilant.

ANIMAL KNOW-HOW is one of a series of articles brought to you by the RSPCA Bedfordshire North branch www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

REDTAIL PEST CONTROL For All Your Pest Control Needs All Pest Species Dealt With BPCA (1&2) Qualified Member of the NPTA Basis Prompt Registered Very Reasonable Prices CRB checked Contact

JAMES ROSE MOB: 07807429843 email red.tail.1st@gmail.com

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Garden By Pippa Greenwood www.pippagreenwood.com

Making a pest They might be small but aphids - widely known as greenfly and blackfly - are one of the most common and widespread garden pests, with more than five hundred different species found in the United Kingdom alone. Greenfly and blackfly vary in colour, from green or black to grey, yellow, pink, brown or kaki. The majority are about 2mm long Most damage is done throughout spring and summer but there are aphids feeding somewhere pretty well throughout the year. In sheltered parts of your garden or in greenhouses and conservatories, some can be found even during the cooler winter months. They can breed rapidly and this is often done asexually or without need of a male. For much of the year females are predominant and give birth to huge numbers of genetically identical offspring. The symptoms they cause include leaf yellowing or other brightly coloured discolouration, puckering, poor growth and stunting. The plant sap on which the aphids feed has an extremely high sugar content; in fact it is so sugary that the aphids cannot digest it all, so their excreta is very sticky and sugary. This is called ‘honeydew’ and you may have noticed it beneath aphid-infested plants. Because it is so sugary, honeydew attracts harmless but unattractive black ‘sooty moulds’. On roses there are several species of aphid which may attack, often forming dense colonies on shoot tips, new leaf growth and flower buds. These aphids are mostly green, pinkish or yellowish in colour and up to 3mm long. If vegetables are more your thing then you may see the black bean aphid as it forms dense colonies especially at the shoot tips and beneath the leaves of broad beans in the spring. If you pinch out the aphid-encrusted shoot tips on beans the problem is often solved. Another common one is the woolly aphid which

of themselves

attacks apple trees and is also often seen on ornamental Malus such as crab apples, pyracantha and cotoneaster. Colonies of the aphid covered with white, waxy, fluffy fibres develop on the bark, especially near pruning cuts on older stems, or on younger stems where they also cause swellings on the stem. It is pretty well impossible to garden without aphids causing some grief – the best you can do is to reduce their numbers. Encouraging naturally occurring predators such as blue tits, ladybirds, hoverflies and lacewings will all help. In some situations it is also worth introducing biological controls and these work especially well in an enclosed area such as a greenhouse or conservatory. Aphid predators such as the larva of the midge Aphidoletes and even ladybirds, can all be purchased, as can the tiny parasitic wasp Aphidius. Ladybirds (available from my website, www.pippagreenwood.com) are perfect for using on aphid outbreaks anywhere in the garden from pots and borders to hanging baskets and hedges. The great thing with these is that, once established they will start to breed and add to the natural ladybird population. There are a number of different chemicals (including organic or ‘green’ ones such as those based on fatty acids or plant oils) available for controlling aphid pests too, but not all are suitable for use on every plant, so check the label carefully before buying or using, and always follow the instructions carefully. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood.com for ladybirds and other biocontrols to control greenfly, Nemaslug, brilliant weeders, pop-up crop covers, copper tape and lots more besides.

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Wildlife Meadow Brown New Denham Butterfly

Butterfly Reincarnation By Andy Mydellton Butterflies are fragile and dainty creatures that begin their four-stage life cycle as a tiny white egg which is laid on carefully selected plants during warmer months. Most butterflies instinctively lay their eggs on the types of plant that the caterpillars have specifically evolved to eat. Synchronicity has evolved hand-in-hand so that the caterpillar emerges to feed at the same time as their selected flowers are in leaf. A caterpillar is little more than an eating device. They hatch in fantastic numbers to survive great onslaughts of predation and feed unquenchably throughout their existence, outgrowing their expandable skins four times before they are ready to develop into the third stage. After successfully growing to its largest size possible, the caterpillar closes down this stage of its life to imprison itself into a chrysalis. It begins its transformation by instinctively finding a sheltered spot from predators, spinning a thread of silk to dangle from, splitting its skin and forming a discoloured outer shell. The chrysalis stage appears to be a lifeless, hard sheath that doesn’t do anything. But the exciting miracle is happening inside these protective outer layers where metamorphosis takes place. When I was a child I was taught that a caterpillar metamorphosed into some type of coagulated soup before completely re-assembling itself. Now biological scientists have discovered that they

Small White Ringshill Farm Butterfly

keep their major organs intact. So when the adult butterfly emerges to complete the fourth stage of its life cycle, it inherits the caterpillar’s knowledge and instincts (referred to as genetic epistemology). This innate information directs the butterfly to seek the same flowers, the same territories and shun the same dangers as the caterpillar did so successfully. The more common species I see at Millstream Fork are the cabbage white, peacock, lesser tortoiseshell and red admiral. However others also arrive in the summer months, attracted by the plants we have chosen to grow. Many garden butterflies are generalists which allow them to become more ubiquitous, while others are specialists, needing particular conditions to complete their lifecycles. Britain has 59 butterfly species, many of which are magnetised to plants such as buddleia that offer the nectar they need. Stinging nettles, although classified as ‘weeds’ by many gardeners, attract the peacock butterfly. For the wildlife enthusiast, a little research can go a long way in attracting specific butterflies. Nowadays butterfly habitats such as wild flower meadows are rare because of intensive farming. Fortunately wildlife gardening is helping to solve this problem as it gives butterflies a mosaic of alternative habitats. Many wildlife gardens are separated from each another by large distances, but butterflies can fly over ‘dead land’ such as roads, car parks and large buildings - a huge advantage over land-based animals which find these physical boundaries too difficult to overcome. At a time when many butterfly populations are reducing, every wildlife garden can make an immediate and strong impact with little cost. Andy Mydellton is CEO of the Foundation for Endangered Species (FES) & Wildlife Zone.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

RH GARDEN DESIGN Want a beautifully maintained garden but don’t have the time? You don’t want to be maintaining the garden at the weekend you want to be enjoying it. So call us and let us take care of it. Regular maintenance visits, grass cutting, hedge trimming, garden clearances, seasonal pruning, and so much more...

“We are passionate about the garden”

Tel: Richard 01462 612033 Mob:07738 246568 www.rhgardendesign.com

It’s quick cost effective & looks great! Rejuvenating, Re-vitalising and Weather Proofing Timber Products 10% Discounts for senior citizens

Tel: 01462 433433 Mob: 07932 254538 To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

WORDWHEEL

Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.

TARGET Excellent: 25 or more words Good: 20 words Fair: 16 words

O J

V A&N Home & Garden Services 1-2 page_ppl.pdf

16/04/2015

E B T

I C

11:01

A&N Home & Garden Services Carpentry. Flat Pack Assembly. Gardening. General Handyman Services. Kitchen & Bathroom Installation. Landscaping. Painting & Decorating. Free Estimates Emergency Call Out Service. Competitive Rates. Up To Date References Can Be Supplied.

alan.holland@ymail.com

07966 732739 | 01462 813663 46

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

For a free no-obligation site visit, please call Ian Clemson on

tel: 01462 757059 www.colourfenceherts.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Time of Year

Summer Solstice Summer Solstice (sometimes also referred to as Midsummer) falls between June 21st-22nd, and celebrates the longest day and shortest night of the year, the sun reaching its highest point in the northern hemisphere, and the very pinnacle of summer-time. Midsummer is celebrated with a variety of different traditions and celebrations around the world – and indeed around our own country, with parties commonly held from the Highlands and Islands of Scotland to the Cornish coast, and in particular at Stonehenge, where tens of thousands gather every year for an all-day festival, watching the sun rise early on 21st June and celebrating the longest day with everything from quiet observations to full-on festivities. The lighting of bonfires often forms a big part of the culture, celebrating the burning light of the sun and mirroring it, a tradition stemming from pagan and Celtic roots.

In addition to having huge Pagan significance, the solstice is relevant too to some branches of Buddhism and those who practice Yoga, in which Sun Salutations often play an important role and the sun is something very much worthy of reverence. The solstice can be explained by the angle of the earth’s axis, the tilt of which is the reason we experience our four seasons each year. When the axis tilts towards the sun during the summer months we know here in the UK, winter is of course in the southern hemisphere, rotating entirely by the time we reach the opposite end of the year.

BICKERDIKES Garden Centre

Relax and enjoy your garden all summer long Bickerdikes has everything you need  Contemporary garden furniture to inspire you – even a hammock if that takes your fancy!  Outdoor candles, bunting and tableware in fabulous styles, patterns and colours  Pots, containers and hanging baskets to add instant colour  And, of course, top quality plants  Norton’s Café for mouthwatering snacks and cakes

Open in g times: Mon - Sat m 9.00am - 5.30ps) (in c ba nk ho lid

Sundays m - 4.30pm 0a .3 10

Norton Road, Norton, Letchworth SG6 1AG ● Tel: 01462 67 33 33 ● www.bickerdikes.co.uk

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Travel

The Bliss of Diss By Tim Saunders “Yes, it will be bliss, to go with you by train to Diss.” – A Mind’s Journey by Sir John Betjeman Norfolk is full of success stories. During our stay at Fritton Lake Lodges in North Norfolk, we discover Lord Somerleyton’s estate was purchased by carpet manufacturer Sir Francis Crossley in 1863 and has been in the family ever since, partly made possible through funding from 80 self-catering lodges set in 250 acres, some available for purchase. We stay in a three-bed lodge with views of the lake. There is also an outdoor centre, a pub and hotel and it is possible to visit Somerleyton Hall, a wedding venue. The lodges certainly provide a good base for becoming better acquainted with Nelson’s county - born on 29th September 1758 to a prosperous family in Burnham Thorpe near Great Yarmouth. At Diss, we meet artist John Atkinson at his studio with little dog Treacle. “You get a lot for your money here,” says John, who relocated from London eight years ago. “It’s only about an hour and half from the capital.” This has allowed him to hire a London chef for his latest venture, a restaurant at The Boilerhouse in Cobbs Yard to complement the delicatessen he already runs. John will be exhibiting his industrial themed paintings there. We can see why Norfolk appeals to the artist, not least because of the large skies and flat landscape. The magical compositions of Nicholas Simington, another artist from Old Buckenham, focus on people. He studied at Glasgow School of Art and we drop in on him and his wife Barbara to see his latest picture.

Fish and Chips at The Bell Inn At Norwich, we visit the castle, which dates back to 1096 and is constructed of flint and mortar faced with a cream coloured Caen limestone. The cathedral was eventually completed in 1145. We also spend a day at Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens in Great Yarmouth where we are all mesmerised by the crocodiles in the swamp house. It is pleasing to see that the animals are given room to roam and the Sumatran Tiger truly captures our daughters’ attentions. Mazes provide yet more entertainment and the Chinese Willow Pattern Garden, complete with suspended wooden bridges, is a joy to walk around. At Hoveton, Wroxham - the gateway to the Norfolk Broads - we find Wroxham Miniature World: an award winning attraction which really does reinvigorate the model train enthusiast in us all. Our favourite exhibit is the Japanese railway complete with cuttings from Japanese newspapers. Aside from the beautiful dolls houses are toy collections of yesteryear including Sooty, Smurfs, the Magic Roundabout, roller skates and Sindy. On the way back, we stop off at the National Trust’s Wimpole Estate to enjoy a walk around historic Wimpole Hall, which dates back to 1640, and some of its 3,000 acres of land and gardens. Harriett and Heidi practise milking at Home Farm, sit on a tractor and see pigs, cows, lambs and Shire horses. What more could you fit into a week? Crocodiles at Thrigby Hall

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

BRANCHING OUT FA M

years

L CA

ALL LO SM ES

LY E BU SIN

Tree Surgery/Felling Tree Pruning/reductions Hedge trimming Tree stump removal Grass cutting & strimming Rotavating and turfing Fencing Patio & driveway cleaning Scarification Garden clearance

Free quotation, no obligation, no job to small, try us!

01462 811991 or 07970 480370

Seasoned logs for sale

Visit us at www.branchingoutservices.co.uk

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Time of Year

Fathers Day Father’s Day is celebrated worldwide in recognition of the contribution fathers make to the lives of their children. In the UK it takes place on the third Sunday in June. There are various stories about the origins of the day. Some believe it is associated with pagan sun worship as the sun is known as the father of the universe and the June solstice occurs around the same time as Father’s Day each year. Others claim that the tradition originated in the ruins of Babylon. It is said that a young boy called Elmesu carved a father’s day message on a card made out of clay around 4,000 years ago. The UK is believed to have followed on after the USA started celebrating the annual occasion. Again there are different versions,

but most link the commencement of the modern Father’s Day with the campaign led by Sonara Smart Dodd. When she was 27, Sonara decided after listening to a Mother’s Day Sermon that there should be something similar for fathers. The local Spokane Ministerial Association and the Young Men’s Christian Association supported her and a local celebration took place in 1910. The popularity of the day spread across the USA and it became officially recognised by President Woodrow Wilson in 1916.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

GILKS FENCING LTD

All Types of Fencing, Gates & Railings, SUPPLIED & INSTALLED

Call for a FREE Survey & Quotation Visit our Display Area at:

Gilks Fencing

Drove Road, Gamlingay, Sandy, Beds SG19 2HX Tel:

01767 650 615

Email:

gilksfencing@hotmail.com

www.gilksfencing.co.uk

Gardening a Pain? Let us take the Strain!

2 FREE shrubs for new orders

We are here for your landscaping projects too  Patios  Artificial lawns  Deckings  Fencing  Turfing  Re-design and more  One off ‘nightmares’ cleared

Book your weekly or fortnightly maintenance visits NOW Prices from just £14.00 per week For more details or for a free quotation call 01462 262103 or email: david.sunshinegardensbaldock@mail.com To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Lambourn MOT and Service Centre Ltd Your LOCAL MoT, tyre and service centre in Shefford

01462 811333 Quality Peace Of Mind Service

Pay us a visit – we’re near Morrisons! Lambourn MoT & Service Centre Unit 10, Old Bridge Way, Shefford, SG17 5HQ

Airport Transfer Specialists Up to 8 people travelling

Visit: lambournservicecentre.co.uk

Email or call us to discuss your needs for any journey, domestic or corporate

STOP

YOURSELF FROM BECOMING A BURGLARY STATISTIC

ADV Alarms is a local security company providing easy to use alarms, security lighting and CCTV at competitive prices.

Check your local crime statistics at: www.police.uk

54Adv Alarms.indd

PROTECT YOUR HOME & YOUR FAMILY... WITH A WIRELESS ALARM SYSTEM Call ADV Alarms on 01767 221 088 for free site survey & quotation

Electrical

SPECIAL OFFER

ALARMS INSTALLE9D FROM £3 5

14 Station Road, Langford SG18 9PD Office Tel: 01767 221 088 Mobile Tel: 07941 295 883

ADV Alarms is a division of Rooney Electrical

CALL ADV ALARMS 01767 221088 18/03/2015 09:22 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Motoring

Top 5 Eco Cars By James Baggott, editor of Car Dealer Magazine (CarDealerMag.co.uk)

As the costs to run our beloved petrol- and diesel-powered cars increase, it’s no wonder we’re all on the hunt for an alternative solution.

With electric and hybrid powertrains driving some of the industry’s most esteemed supercars – the new Honda NSX and BMW i8 – it would appear that there is another way forward. But if eco is at the forefront of your mind, which car should you have on your driveway? Here are our choices. Ford Fiesta The Fiesta is the best selling car on the market – and not without good reason. Although it’s not labelled an official ‘eco’ car, its low running costs make it the ideal cost-effective solution for most buyers. Choose the 1.4-litre TDCi, priced from £13,065, and you can expect an average mileage of 68mpg and emissions of 107g/km. Fiat 500 The Fiat 500 completes the ‘Thee Musketeers’ line-up, alongside the Mini and VW Beetle, as one of today’s most stylish cars. Running a 1.2-litre engine, the 500 TwinAir can achieve 49.6 urban mpg and dodges road tax by emitting just 95g/km of CO2. The TwinAir is priced from £12,715 and is the perfect city run around. BMW i3 BMW’s futuristic i3 is one of just a few cars that has revolutionised the way we view the future of motoring. Not only does it combine ecofriendly driving with premium qualities, it can also reach 93mph, can go from 0-60mph in 7.9 seconds and has a driving range of 106 miles, thanks to its on-board petrol motor, which works alongside a 127kW electric unit. Sadly, its £29,130 price means we don’t see many of them on the road. Volkswagen E-Up! The E-Up! is one of the most practical and reasonably-priced electric cars on the market, with five doors and an estimated driving range of 93 miles. It takes six hours to recharge and has a comfortable top speed of 81mph. The price isn’t so attractive at £19,525, but this electric motor is close to feeling more like the average supermini. Renault Twizy Renault’s Twizy is just as fun as it looks. It may be the slowest of the pack, with a top speed of just 56mph, but it’s guaranteed to provide you with the most entertainment. Priced at £7,795, its 15kW battery takes four hours to charge, it has a driving range of 62 miles and emits zero emissions. And just look at its styling!

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Russell Grant’s

Horoscopes

AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th

The Full Moon on 2nd forces you to stop what you’re doing and come to a friend’s rescue. You’ll be brimming with energy throughout the first half of June. Take this opportunity to get more exercise. The New Moon on 16th is suffused with romance.

PISCES February 20th - March 20th

The Full Moon on 2nd prompts you to question certain career choices. Fortunately, a rewarding job that allows you to work from home is on the horizon. Your artistic talent will generate lots more income during the second half of June.

ARIES March 21st - April 20th

LEO July 24th - August 23rd

The Full Moon on 2nd forces you to put your foot down with demanding people. Take this opportunity to go on holiday or buy yourself some luxuries.

VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd

The Full Moon on 2nd makes family life stressful. Your relatives aren’t happy with certain choices you’ve made. You’ll realise a career ambition at mid-month, causing everyone to envy and admire you.

LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd

Travel plans will be cancelled in early June thanks to a stressful Full Moon. Breathe deep and know the Universe has bigger and better plans for you.

The Full Moon on 2nd piles more work on your plate. Family proves wonderfully understanding and will do their best to make life easier in early June. A platonic relationship could turn into a passionate romance during the closing days of June.

TAURUS April 21st - May 21st

SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd

The early days of June bring an end to a source of unearned income. Pooling your resources will help you overcome this temporary shortfall. The New Moon on 16th is ideal for landing a good job.

GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st

Opportunities related to art, fashion, cosmetics and entertainment are strongly featured. The New Moon on 16th allows you to pay off a long- standing debt.

SAGITTARIUS November 23rd - December 21st

The Full Moon on 2nd marks the final phase of an intimate relationship. June is a great time to show off your expertise while updating your skill set. Taking a class will prove enjoyable.

The Full Moon on 2nd finds you facing off with a pushy partner. Look for good deals on holiday packages on 8th. The New Moon on 16th is perfect for signing a contract or embarking on a serious romance.

CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd

CAPRICORN December 22nd - January 20th

The Full Moon on 2nd reveals a health problem. Ask friends for doctor recommendations. It may be necessary to cancel some holiday plans. Don’t despair. You’ll be able to reschedule a much nicer trip later in the season.

The Full Moon on 2nd brings an embarrassing secret to light. People will seek your professional advice during the first half of June, which is gratifying. If you’re not in a relationship, you will meet someone special.

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Painting & Decorating Property Maintenance Quality Workmanship Papering, Coving etc. Interior and Exterior Work Free Quotations Call W Firkins & Partners Ltd 01462 814117 or 07939 267083 Est 1981 20 Clifton Road, Shefford, Beds

LOCAL

CALL NOW ON:

07847 849202 Mas terCard

Maes tro

www.theﬂoorheatstore.com

Under ﬂoor Heating Supplies to the trade and public. Electric & Water systems suitable for any ﬂoor covering with lifetime guarantees

COME AND SEE US SHOWROOM NOW OPEN! Find us at 664 Saunders Close, Letchworth SG6 1PF

0845 340 3670 “We are so pleased we decided to install our underﬂoor heating in our new bathroom and conservatory, very economical to run and warms up so quickly!!! Floor Heat Store helped us decide on the correct system and advised us throughout our project.” Mr & Mrs Bradley Russell, Hitchin

ASK ABOUT OUR INSTALLATION SERVICE!!! UNDERTILE KITS STARTING FROM ONLY £84.98 INC VAT TRADE ACCOUNTS AVAILABLE

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Alan George Painter & Decorator Interior and Exterior Work Wallpapering and Coving Reliable and Local Specialist City & Guilds trained with 30 years experience Sole trader No VAT Free estimates Call Alan on 01582 454604 Mob:07760198256 or E-Mail: george-a6@sky.com

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Codeword 1

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Suduko

Hard Suduko

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 puzzles. 60

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Fully qualiFied â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 25 years experienCe

PlumbinG & heatinG ltd

gas

Gas installer Boiler installation with 5 year warranty Boiler breakdown & power flushing Frozen condense pipe rectified Boiler service and landlord certification

water PlumbinG and heatinG

Full heating & bathroom installation Under floor heating Mains pressure upgrades General plumbing work & maintenance

solar solar

Solar thermal for hot water Solar PV installation by MCS approved installers Solar cylinder upgrades & breakdowns

Call: 01462 292247 / 07566 118 247 218627

14 Pear Tree Close, Lower Stondon, Bedfordshire SG16 6ND Email: dave@dhplumb.co.uk Website: www.dhplumb.co.uk

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Electrician www.rooneyelectrical.co.uk

1st Glass Window Repairs 30

years experience Do you find it difficult to get someone to come and do a small job? Fault finding/repairs Extra lights and sockets New fuse boards Rewires P.A.T testing Landlord inspections Qualified electrician  Fully insured Reliable service  Tidy work Free quote  Satisfaction guaranteed

Call Nigel on: 01767 221088 / 07941295883

FULLY INSURED! Local company who can fix all types of problems with your double glazing, call us now for a free quotation. Steamed Up Glass Faulty Windows, Door Locks or Hinges Draughty Windows or Doors Leaking Conservatory Roofs Fascias and Gutters New Conservatory Roofs We also supply and fit NEW Windows, Doors and Conservatories

DISCOUNTS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE

07511 906161

IAN SIMPSON Carpentry and Joinery All aspects of carpentry work undertaken Kitchens, Bedrooms, Doors, Windows 25 years experience Free estimates Please call 01462 851695 or 07967162448 E-mail ij_simpson@hotmail.com 64

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Taylor Made Joinery Ltd Traditional Bespoke Joinery

www.taylormadejoineryltd.co.uk info@taylormadejoineryltd.co.uk T: 01462 338 313 M: 07855 834 424 facebook.com/TaylorMadeJoineryLtd Unit C1 Manor Farm, Upper Stondon, Beds, SG16 6LJ

made in joinery.indd 2 To Taylor advertise The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

We are proud to be a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen

17/03/2015 10:20 65

SELECT AT HOME CARPETS

Suppliers and fitters of all types of carpet, vinyls and laminates

FREE home calls for advice and quotations. Wide range of sample books to choose from. Friendly and reliable service. Senior citizens â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Uplift of old carpets for free.

Call Ernie for a free quote on

07767 251106 01462 615582 All messages returned

Select at home carpets 1/4.indd 1

14/04/2015 13:58

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Well Being

Why walk when you can run?

By Nooshin Hassan

Ok, I did it. I signed up for a running race. I only have myself to blame. Being a novice runner (and that’s a generous description) my motivation was not the love of the sport. My decision was fuelled by the desire to raise money for a charity that didn’t involve shaving my head or dousing myself in ice. A small part of me also felt it would be good to set myself a new kind of challenge. So now I am ‘in training’ (that sounds far too professional versus the reality) for the Great Yorkshire Run where I will be raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society. It’s a 10k race, which might not seem much compared to the marathon-sized efforts of many people today, but it’s the longest distance I’ve ever run. This is not just about improving my fitness or the race itself; I’ve made a commitment to support a greater cause something to remember when the going gets tough. And I’m hoping that my once-a-week yoga has helped….

Tips from a non-pro runner: • • • •

Get some decent trainers. You don’t need expensive gait analysis (although that might be what you want). Stretch! I suffered the consequences of not bothering and it was PAINFUL so I cannot stress stretching enough. 20 minutes. Before and after running. Ladies I have two words for you: Sports. Bra. Apply lip balm/Vaseline etc. before running to avoid cracked lips as you become dehydrated.

HERTS OVEN CLEAN Herts Oven Clean is a domestic oven cleaning specialist in Hertfordshire. Non-caustic, fume-free solution individually prepared for each customer. Ovens, Hobs, Grills, Extractors, Agas, Microwaves and Gas Barbeques. Call Richard on 01438 813492 Bring a sparkle to your kitchen today. To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

n O s ’ t Wha In June 17 February-7 July Jill Grey - Life & Legacy Exhibition See website for opening times British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin, SG4 2TS Collector, Curator, Code Breaker, Correspondent and Campaigner, Jill’s story, told mainly in her own words, will amaze and inspire you. Tel: 01462 420144 Web: www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk 6 May-30 September Luton Hoo Walled Garden 11am-3pm Luton Hoo, LU1 4LF Entry £5 including guided tour Open every Wednesday. Guided tour times: 11.30am, 12.30pm and 2pm. Purchase produce from the Garden Stall. Enjoy a light lunch in beautiful surroundings of homemade cakes, snacks and savouries. Please pre-book dedicated tours for more than 15 people. Tel: 01582 721443 Web: www.lutonhooestate.co.uk 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 June Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-11pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Branch Out is a medium-sized social club for single people and meets every Monday night. It was formed in 1995 to bring together single, divorced, widowed and separated people, aged 40 upwards, from the Herts, Beds and Bucks area, to socialise and enjoy one another’s company. The club organises regular events, such as dinners, discos, meals, parties, Sunday walks, theatre and concert visits, day and weekend trips and holidays. Web: www.branchout.org.uk 3 June The British Infrantryman’s War by Taff Gillingham 7pm for 7.30pm The Comrades Club, Godmanchester The Cambridgeshire branch of the Western Front Association is pleased to present a talk by Taff Gillingham. Non WFA members most welcome. A small donation is encouraged at the door to pay for the running of the branch. Web: www.westernfrontassociation.com

4, 11, 18 & 25 June Sapphire Social Club 8.30pm Meet in Hitchin This social club caters for the unattached aged 50+ with varied events during the month. No joining fee for the first two months. Tel: Joyce 07960 440417 or Ian 07900 890583 for information Web: www.sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk 5 June Cambridge Touring Theatre ‘Robin Hood The Musical’ 6pm National Trust Dovecote & Stables, Willington Adults £10, Concessions £8, Family £36 Open air production for all the family. Children come dressed in best Sherwood fashion. Performance lasts 2 hours including 20 minute interval. Tel: Bookings 01805 624624 Web: www.cambridgetouringtheatre.co.uk 5 June Gallery 1066 Fine Art7-9pm Gallery 1066 Fine Art, Willow Mews, 6a Hitchin Street, Baldock International superstar Dylan Izaak will be visiting the gallery. Tel: 01462 896164 6 June The Signals Museum 10am-4pm The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open to the public. Entry is free but official photo ID such as a driving licence, passport or over 60s Bus Pass is required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom. See website for full information. Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 7 June Happy’s Circus 12 noon Furneux Pelham C of E School, Furneux Pelham Adults £8, Family of 4 £25 Even the kids will love it! Pip and Mr Happy present a fun packed comedy show for all the family supported by amazing International Circus Artists. BBQ, Pimms tent, face painting, games & fun, Lucky Dip, Homemade Cakes, Tombolas. Email: FPSA.events@hotmail.com

7 June Shortmead Open Gardens 2-5pm Shortmead Lane, Biggleswade, Beds SG18 0FG Adults £3, Accompanied under 12s free A rare opportunity to visit the grounds of Shortmead House and enjoy the beautiful ornamental and informal gardens. Exhibition in the marquee by Beds Carers - Biggleswade Branch Art Group. Light refreshments available in the marquee, plant sales, WC, baby-changing facilities available. Guide dogs only. All proceeds go to Friends of Shortmead, a charity which supports the restoration and conservation of the grounds to protect the site for future generations. Tel: Marilyn Bond 01767 313663 Email: marilyn@shortmead.com Web: www.shortmead.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/shortmead 7 June The Alabama Hayriders 4.30pm The Oddfellows Arms, Aspley Come and listen to the reunited legendary swing band of the 60s and 70s. Tel: 01462 701779 for further details and tickets 7 June Charity Quiz 8pm The Five Bells, Henlow Village £2 per person In aid of Purple Trust based in Everton. Teams of up to 8 members. Cash prizes, spit prizes and raffle. Tel: John 01767 680974 8 June Icknield Quilters 7.30pm for 7.45pm start Baldock Community Centre, Simpson Drive, Baldock SG7 6DH Cost £4 Our speaker is Edwina McKinnon - “Colour Stories”. Visitors welcome. Web: www.icknieldquilters.co.uk

Deadline for What’s On entries is the 12th of the previous month.

Please mention The Villager and Town when respondingtotoadverts adverts Please mention The Villager and Town LifeLife when responding

n O s ’ t Wha In June 11-13 June “Carry on Pirton Players” 7.45pm Pirton Village Hall “Carry on Pirton Players” A Comedy Sketch Show in celebration of 20 years since Pirton Players was started. The 20th Anniversary show will include a number of comic sketches and songs which have been put forward by the members of the group - so you can expect a very wide variety of content. Some original sketches which from the first ever 1995 performance are also in the show – a fitting tribute to the group’s heritage and a great opportunity to witness some of the “turns” which led to the creation of the group! Tickets available from Pirton Village Shop and online. Web: Tickets www.pirtonplayers.org 12 & 13 June ‘Murder is Served’ 7pm for 7.15pm Wilbury Junior School, Bedford Road, Letchworth Tickets £10 Wilbury Hills Amateur Theatricals (WHAT). Join us to celebrate a special birthday with a difference! Come to the party.., if you dare! Fish & Chips, Bar, Quiz, Raffle. Tickets from David’s Bookshop, Letchworth or telephone. Tel: Tickets 01462 732238 Web: www.whatperform.org 20 June June drop-in activity: Samplers 10am-1pm British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin Find out more about our sampler collection, and have a go at designing and making your own samplers. Ideal for younger visitors and their adults, but all welcome. Normal admission fees apply. Tel: 01462 420144 Web: www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk

20 June Summer Fair 11am Old Market Square, Hitchin Schools Museum moves into the Old Market Square for the day of fun, food and fine fare. There will be displays of dancing by Staplers Country Dance Club and a static display of classic cars. Tel: 01462 420144 Web: www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk 20 June Ashwell School PTA Fun Day 12-4pm Ashwell Primary School, Silver Street, Ashwell A fun day for the whole family. Cake competition, swimming pool, Pimms, Bar, BBQ, egg throwing competition, face painting, live music, fire engine, bouncy castle and lots of fun! Tel: 01462 742297 for more information 20 June Almost Abba Tribute Band 8pm til late Meppershall Village Hall Members £2, Non-members £5 Fancy dress optional. Email: sharon1805@hotmail.co.uk for advance tickets 21 June Biggleswade Antiques Fair 9.30am-4pm The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade Entrance £1.50 This antiques fair offers a diverse range of antiques and collectables so whether you are a professional dealer, an avid collector or just looking for something special, this monthly fair is the place to visit. Café serving breakfast, lunches and afternoon tea. Tel: 01480 382432 or 07906 647346 Web: www.madisonevents.co.uk

Deadline for What’s On entries is the 12th of the previous month. To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

27 June Stotfold Art Group 7th Annual Summer Exhibition 11am-4pm Memorial Hall, Hallworth Drive, Stotfold Free admission Paintings and handmade cards for sale. Refreshments. Free parking. 27 June The Alabama Hayriders Meppershall Village Fete and later at The Plough, Langford from 8.30pm Come and listen to the reunited legendary swing band of the 60s and 70s. Tel: 01462 701779 for further details and tickets 28 June East Beds Concert Band at Shuttleworth Gates open 2pm, concert starts 3pm Shuttleworth College (Old Warden Village entrance) Adults £6, Concessions £4, Family £15 East Beds Concert Band annual summer concert. This year, there is no theme to the concert, but there will be a wide range of music performed: from ‘The Blues Brothers’ and ‘Indiana Jones’ through ‘Shepherds’ Hey’ and ‘March to the Scaffold’ to ‘When I’m 64’; it’s quite an eclectic mix so there’ll be something for all the family to enjoy. Bring a picnic, rugs or chairs to sit in the fabulous grounds whilst enjoying the wide selection of music. Not forgetting the opportunity to purchase fantastic homemade ice-cream from Mr and Mrs Maynard. 4 July The Alabama Hayriders Opening at 1pm Langford Fete Come and listen to the reunited legendary swing band of the 60s and 70s. Tel: 01462 701779 for further details 5 September The Alabama Hayriders 12pm The Chequers, Wrestlingworth Wrestlingworth Goodwill Day to raise money for local causes. Come and listen to the reunited legendary swing band of the 60s and 70s. Tel: 01462 701779 for further details

WINDOW REPAIRS

Serving all of Herts - Based in Stevenage Specialising in replacing misted units

BEFORE AFTER email: info@jmlwindows.co.uk website: www.jmlwindows.co.uk 07977 911 926 / 01438 906300 • Misted/broken double glazed units • Sticking doors or windows adjusted • Broken/loose handles • Leaded or Georgian units replaced • Hinges for gapping windows • Leaks ﬁxed • All types of locks replaced • Energy saving Planitherm glass • Cat/dog ﬂaps in glass or panels • Door re-alignments Visit our website for over 30 customer reviews 70

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Travel

Have You Ever Fancied a

Home Swap Holiday? BBC One’s Home Away from Home is back! And we’re looking for people who want to try out a home swap holiday in the UK. Do you live in a home you’d be happy to swap with someone elsewhere in the UK for a short break? Would you like the chance to have a new experience and discover local cuisine, sight-seeing that goes beyond the guide book, and an authentic place to stay? With Home Away from Home you could be enjoying a unique holiday experience in a stunning part of the UK... For an application form or an initial chat, please get in touch right away! Email: homeawayfromhome@bbc.co.uk Phone: 0208 008 1468

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

James Cullip

Painting & Decorating • Wood Burning Stoves • Multi Fuel Stoves • Chimney Lining • Twin Wall Flue Systems • Installation and Supply • Fireplace Renovations • Stove Accessories • Trade Sales

• interior/exterior - all aspects • wallpaper hanging • coving • general household maintenance • plastering services available • free estimates

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN Friday, Saturday & Monday – 10am—5pm

• fully insured

Other Days/Out of hours by prior arrangement

References available t: 01462 817 122 m: 07899 888 545 e: go_on_james@hotmail.com www.cullippaintinganddecorating.co.uk 10 Mill Lane, Campton, Shefford, Beds

Unit 2 Home Farm Court, The Street, Diddington, St Neots, PE19 5XT info@cromwellstoves.co.uk 01480 812281 | 07786 854946

www.cromwellstoves.co.uk

Cromwell stoves 1/4 page.indd 1

10/02/2015 08:33

All Building Services Provided Fully Qualified & Insured Free Local Estimates No Job Too Big Or Small Call James 7 days a week on:

07595 752 466 01462 231 734

JamesBonfieldCarpentry@yahoo.co.uk Shefford, Bedfordshire

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Mayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossword, Codeword and Suduko Solutions Last Monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossword Winner Mr Keating from Letchworth

Easy

Hard

Visit our beautiful

Bathroom Showroom ...With more than 50 displays of bathrooms, furniture & fittings Free in-house 3D design service Quality products from leading manufacturers Experienced staff offering impartial advice Free delivery within a 20 mile radius of our showroom

01438 725309

bathrooms@stevenageplumbing.co.uk www.stevenageplumbing.co.uk

Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

The Villager Prize Crossword

Prize

ÂŁ25

Across 1 Well ventilated (4) 3 Keeps you dry (8) 9 Hauled (7) 10 Brawl (5) 11 Mixtures (12) 13 Paper handkerchief (6) 15 Small stoat (6) 17 Books of words (12) 20 Not outer (5) 21 Bishopric (7) 22 Bulge (8) 23 Beers (4) Down 1 Fearlessness (8) 4 12:00pm (6)

ď&#x20AC;˘

2 Kingdom (5) 5 Used for cold storage (12) 6 Folk tales (7)

Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this page and send to the address below before

12th June 2015 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

7 Opposed to (4) 8 Agrarian (12) 12 Shines (8) 14 Chemistry, biology, physics for example (7) 16 Barrier (6) 18 Perfect (5) 19 Assists (4)

Name: Tel: Address:

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

ROOFLINE PRODUCTS INSTALLED BY THE PROFESSIONALS

PVC-U soffits, fascia, guttering and cladding in flat and woodgrain effects and a choice of colour

10 year guarantee Very low maintenance Quality approved zinc-free plastics to eliminate rusting Seamless colour-matched products across the entire range For a free quotation please call Langford Windows

01462 701828

www.langfordwindows.com langfordwindows@hotmail.co.uk Langford Windows advert.indd 1

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

24/01/2014 14:19

Local News

Word Ladder

New

Dementia Group

Change one letter at a time (but not the position of any letter) to make a new word - and move from the word at the top of the ladder to the word at the bottom, using the exact number of rungs provided.

M A I L

for Henlow, Langford, Clifton and surrounding areas....... all welcome

ÂŠPuzzlepress.co.uk

If you have Dementia or are a Carer this can be a lonely challenging place so please feel free to join this FREE group to simply talk and find support and strength from others. Everyone responds to these challenges in different ways. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m in awe of Carers and how they manage. Some Carers do get affected by depression, exhaustion, sleeplessness, irritability and health problems. Some of the negative aspects of caring if you are affected are: Denial, Anger, Grief,Thinking positively, Resilience, Social isolation and Anxiety about the future. For more information please call Nicky on 07554 425570.

P O S T

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Building, Roofing Maintenance

• General building • Roofing and roof repairs • Roof windows supplied and fitted • Carpentry • Repairs and Maintenance • Brickwork • Renovations • Flat roofing • Block paving • Kitchens and Bathrooms

• • • • • • • • • •

Concreting Site clearance Patios Fencing Guttering Decking Cabins and Sheds Tiling Fascias and Soffits Flooring supplied and fitted • Garden sleeper walls

Free non obligatory Call Russell on Tel 01462 625690/07960 967937 quotes Email: homeworxbuild@outlook.com Homeworx.indd 1

07/04/2015 15:39

A TOUCH OF GLASS Quality UPVC Windows, Doors & Conservatories ALL REPAIRS UNDERTAKEN Broken locks, handles, hinges, replacement misted glass units, catflaps, draughty windows EMERGENCY 24HR CALL OUT SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNT For free advice call Dave today

01462 619651 Web: atouchofglasswindowsanddoors.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122

Books

Book Review By Bruce Edwards Nora Webster Colm Tóibín

Pub: Penguin p/b £7.99 ISBN: 978-0-141-04175-9 Some paper-back novels commonly found on the ‘buy one, get one at half price’ tables in the central arena of your local chain bookstore can often be seen as quick-fire revelations of someone else’s world without too much reality or depth, and possibly even written ‘against the clock’ in response to a publisher’s insistent demand that a sellable writer fulfils his/ her contract signed after the first successful title. Do you choose a title purely by the cover? What logic or attraction works best from the commercial sales point of view? There’s no such thing as the ‘best cover design’ despite marketeer’s best efforts, for we’re all individuals and as such, choose subjectively. Literary content may come second to the girl - or crime scene - on the cover So, would you choose Nora, appearing as a not particularly sexy woman standing alone on a sea-shore who - according to the revealing back cover blurb - has just been widowed, something that may otherwise take you a fair few pages to discover? Quick-fire reading this is not. There’s a wealth of splendid detail here, couched in neat everyday language, of an almost hour by hour revelation of her thoughts, how she discovers her new self in the reflection of others and how the turn of life’s journey affects her husband-less future. Its very intimacy absorbs one into her world; Tóibín’s revelation of a world well worth exploring. You’ll find more than you bargained for and therefore may never read a chick-lit title again. Suggestion and queries to: writerselect@gmail. com. We’re always happy to consider specific titles for review, though without obligation.

Can’t find a title? E-mail your details and we’ll try to help.” 78

Carpentry and Joinery

Tim Jordon

Carpentry and Joinery Made to measure quality timber products supply and fit. Doors, Windows, Stairs, Gates, Kitchen Worktops, Wood staining, painting and varnishing Station Road, Lower Stondon, Beds. Tel: 01462 850363 or 07544 790071

Electricians

CM ROOFING Family run business Est. 20 yrs • • • • • • • • • • •

Repairs & Re-roof Lead Specialists Slating & Tiling Guttering and Drainage Gutter Clearing Fascias & Soffits UPVC Wall Cladding Moss Removal Flat Roofing Single Ply/3 Layer Felt Liquid Plastics

We will beat any written quotation For more information & free estimate

01438 517166 / 07432 624335 chrismead.roofing@yahoo.co.uk www.cm-roofing.co.uk

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

Classifieds Pet Services

Property Maintenance R. CHAPMAN

Home & Garden Services

Patio’s Driveways Fencing Brickwork Painting & Decorating Tiling 20 Years Experience - No Job Too Small!

01462 850575 or 07950 311881

Plastering Services

Removals

James Geekie Plastering All types of plastering - big or small Interior/Exterior Work Undertaken Re-skim Rooms, Walls, Artex & Ceilings Dry Lining and Screeding

MUSCLE & MOTOR Jumbo van with up to 3 men. Helpful, efficient and friendly service for all your moving, carrying, and domestic disposal needs, including house and garage clearance.

Call Richard on: 01767 317387 or 07968 787496

Tel: 07792 415356 or 01462 490598 Email: james.geekie@hotmail.co.uk

Plastering Services Lawes Plastering

Removals and Storage Experienced local plasterer based in Gravenhurst. Quality workmanship, clean and tidy

Contact • Plastering Paul on • Coving 07731 649628 • Artex

Lawes Plastering.indd 1

Email: muscleandmotor@gmail.com www.muscleandmotor.co.uk

removals, storage, archive and shipping • House and office moves • Large and small vehicles • Local/long distance and overseas removals • Containerised storage • Extremely high quality customer service Call for a no obligation quotation

01582 572967

enquiries@stephensremovals.com

Stephens Dinky ad_02.indd 1 02/11/2014 10:38

Business gone a bit slow? Let us help!

Advertising in The Villager is easy. To find out more call Nigel on 01767 261122 or email nigel@villagermag.com

Van Hire

3/12/12 11:44:54

Chris’ Man & Van

For hire

Collections, Deliveries, Light Haulage...anything considered. Cheap rates Please call for further details

07747 828259 / 01525 754218

To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

‘EUROVISION’ REVISITED

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF EUROVISION

16 AUGUST 2015 AT SHUTTLEWORTH Old Warden Aerodrome, Bedfordshire, SG18 9EP FEATURING THE ORIGINAL RECORDING ARTISTS: Bobby G’s Bucks Fizz

Brotherhood of Man

TRIBUTES TO: Abba The Shadows

Lulu

Cliff Richard

Please note: These acts are tributes performing classic hits, not the actual group or performer. Disclaimer - All information is accurate at time of publishing. Any act advertised is not guaranteed, as event is subject to weather and conditions beyond our control.

Sandie Shaw

BOOK NOW - www.shuttleworth.org/musicevent Pods Available Call:

01767 627933 (M-F, 9-5)