Denham june 14 mag final

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Indefinable quality For expert advice and installation of all Schueco systems: 9 9 9 9

Bi-Fold Doors Sliding Doors Conservatories Winter Gardens

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Curtain-walling Structural Glazing Windows Glass Sky Lights

0844 358 2227 info@bifolddoorfactory.co.uk www.bifolddoorfactory.co.uk

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 I can’t believe another whole month has flown by and just as I’m sending this month’s magazines off to the printer and pondering over which part of the house to tackle first, I realise that the kids are now breaking up from school again. Not much chance of getting any further ahead there then. Indeed, I suspect that by the end of the week, the place will be totally trashed, whilst the laundry basket grows at an even more alarming rate than usual.

I guess it’s good practice for the looming school summer holidays. Is it my imagination, or have the kids only just been off from school, and after this holiday won’t be back there for more than five minutes before they’re off again? No doubt this is just my inconvenienced adult perspective and youngsters everywhere will be telling me that they spend far too long at school and could really do with a whole lot more time off. My daughter’s firm belief is that weekends should be three days long and the work/school week the remaining four. Me personally, I could do with the week being at least eight days long.

Well, I’m off to empty the laundry basket.

In the meantime, do continue to keep in touch, either by telephone, email or facebook and let us know what’s going on where you are. We always do our very best to print your events and local information, and also to share it with other readers via our facebook page. Why not give us a visit and a Like!

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What Happened in June 1994 6 Property Matters 10 Coffee Break Puzzles 12 Puzzle Solutions 14 Computer Helpdesk 16 Parks & Local Events 18 & 20 RSPCA Rehoming Appeal 22 Finance: Credit where credit’s due 24 What’s on at the Compass Theatre 26 Citizens Advice Bureau comes to Iver 28 Wordsearch 28 Travel: The Leaning Tower of Pisa 30 Our Financial Times 32 Cake & Bake 34 Denham Against HS2 38 Citizens Advice Bureau / Tel Numbers 40 Health: Osteoarthritis 42 Reader Travel Offers 44 Beer of the Month 46 Used Cars: Affordable Emerging Classics 48 Denham Remembers 50 Wildlife Zone 52 Beach Ready Beauty 54 Garden Feature 56 Interiors: Furnishing Finesse 60 Children’s Puzzle Page 62 Clubs, Groups & Classes 64, 66 & 68

Tel: 01895 835907 Mob: 07759 536494 In and Around Magazines cover: West Drayton . Iver . Denham . Uxbridge Ickenham . Ruislip Angela Fisher 01895 835907 / 07759 536494 info@inandaroundpublishing.co.uk 

www.inandaroundpublishing.co.uk 4

  We are grateful for the support of local businesses whose adverts appear in this publication and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions, claims made by advertisers or endorse companies, products or services.

This publication, its contents and advert designs are © of In and Around Publishing. Any copying or reproduction in part or fully, is strictly forbidden without our prior consent.

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What happened in... ...June 1994? thick fog at Mull of Kintyre.

All 29 people on board were killed, among whom were Intelligence experts from the British Army, MI5 and the RUC and two Special Forces crew members.

five of them fatally, who were walking home from a discotheque. He also killed two male passersby. He was arrested after a shoot-out with police, during which he was shot and injured.

23rd: South Africa reclaimed its seat in the UN.

1st: Following the end of apartheid, South Africa was re-admitted to the Commonwealth.

3rd: An earthquake and the subsequent tsunami off the south-eastern coast of Java caused the loss of over 200 lives. Three days later another quake, in Columbia, took over a thousand more and on the 9th a quake in – or beneath – Bolivia was so powerful that tremors were felt from Argentina to Canada.

However, because it was so deep (395 miles below sea level) it caused little damage.

2nd: An RAF Chinook helicopter, en route from Northern Ireland to Inverness, crashed into a hillside in

11th: In Stockholm a drunken army officer shot six young women,

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About twenty police cars followed actor and ex-professional footballer OJ Simpson as his friend drove him through Los Angeles on 17th June.

As the news media learned of this low-speed pursuit the unwelcome escort was joined by over twenty helicopters. Simpson was eventually arrested and charged with the murder of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ronald Goldman.

On 3 October 1995, after a controversial trial, Simpson was finally acquitted.

Petrol was about £2.55 per gallon Average house price was about £68,000

Three of the bestselling singles this year were: Love Is All Around - Wet Wet Wet No Good (Start The Dance) - The Prodigy Everybody’s Talkin’ - The Beautiful South

25th: The last Russian troops pulled out of what was then East Germany.

29th: The US reopened their base at Guantanamo Bay to process Cuban refugees fleeing the communist regime. This territory had been under American control since the 1903 Cuban-American Treaty, although Cuba insists the Treaty was obtained under the threat of force and is illegal.

30th: An Airbus crashed in Toulouse, France, killing the seven crew members.

They had been taking part in a test flight simulating engine failure at low speed with a maximum angle of climb.

Patrick D Cousins is the author of Rainbows, Dreams and Angels, a double novella set in east London, mostly during the Sixties. Patrick Cousins’ Short Shorts is a collection of short stories and humorous articles. Both books are available from Amazon.

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Carters Blog (Jun14)_Layout 1 23/05/2014 23:29 Page 1

pRopeRty mAtteRs from

OuR PROPERTy ExPERT

How desirable is your address?

As someone who lived in a Victorian terrace house on Dock View Road, I understand that an address can say a lot about a property. No doubt if it was being named today it would be called Marine Drive!

A new report claims a ‘sexy’ address can add up to 40% to the value of a home, whilst the wrong name can wipe off 20%.

Property intelligence group Dataloft, found that London’s most desirable and valuable address names are Crescent, Square and Mews whilst the least coveted are Road, Grove and Court.

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ADRiAn Duthie

It says the London property market benefits from selling more properties which have desirable address names than the rest of England and Wales combined.

A Brunel graduate, Adrian has lived in hillingdon and Denham for over 30 years.

The results found that a ‘Crescent’ is the most expensive and desirable place to live in prime central London. ‘Crescents’ command a price 40% higher than the average paid across central London. The sales price of a typical ‘Crescent’ home in London is now over £5 million. Britain’s top three most expensive ‘Crescents’ are Wilton (Belgravia), Hans (Knightsbridge) and Pelham (South Kensington), with a recent property in Wilton Crescent selling for a record £32 million.

passionate about property he writes extensively for magazines, newspapers and on social media as well as regularly featuring on television and radio.

The address names survey and the hierarchy it has produced has generated a wealth of fascinating findings which have implications for property marketing, local authority address naming strategies and the growing value gap between property in Central London and the rest of England and Wales.

An independent estate agent, property developer and landlord, he has built up an unrivalled knowledge and experience of the local property market.

It shows how London’s best addresses consolidate their power and value by having the in-built advantage of being dominated by ‘sexy address’ names. So for example, Mayfair has no ‘Roads’ but lots of attractive Squares, Places and Mews. The centre of the capital is dominated by grand crescents, big terraced houses and lovely leafy squares where the wealthy choose to live.

Founder & Director, Carter Estate Agents.

Outside of London, the reverse is true, sales are dominated by ‘Road’ addresses – the least valuable and desirable of all the names in our hierarchy – and there are far less sales associated with sexy address names.

Given all of this, is it any wonder that the value gap between Central London and the rest of the country has become such a huge chasm?

Well I’m off to value a new property now… in Love Lane!

Adrian

If you want to speak to Denham’s most desirable agents, then call Adrian on 01895 832155 10

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 Ten years ago, 48% of British households had access to the internet and six years before that, a mere 9% had the ability to get on line. Last year some 83% of households were connected and 72% of adults accessed the internet every day; clearly the digital age is proceeding full steam ahead.

The way that we get online has also changed markedly over the last decade or so. In 2013, 61% of the population accessed the internet on the go via a mobile device, compared to 24% in 2010 and virtually none in 2005. At the turn of the century, the majority of the 20% of households that could get online did so via a dialup connection; now over 99% of them use broadband. Broadband itself is evolving rapidly; 42% of connections were made using superfast fibre optic in 2013, up 12% in just one year. This reflects the massive investment now being made by the likes of BT and Virgin Media in fibre optic infrastructure. The development in both capability and availability of mobile connections has been equally rapid. The original 2G connections were painfully slow where they could be made at all. 3G was a step change improvement, even allowing users to stream live video as they walked up the street. 4G is another great leap forward, significantly faster than conventional broadband.

But what about the 17% of households that have no form of internet access? The government has a vision of universal access within a fairly short timeframe so the Office of National Statistics has been doing some research into these households.

They found that 59% neither needed nor wanted internet access; they are effectively opting out of the digital age. However, the remaining 41% are more of a concern; they would like to have internet access but there are obstacles preventing them from doing so. Twenty percent simply don’t have the computer skills necessary to get online and around 13% are put off by the costs of either a computer or broadband rental. The figures suggest that up to 5% of households cannot get broadband at all, either because they don’t have a phone line or their existing line is not broadband enabled.

The situation is much worse where mobile access is concerned because it is dependent on mobile phone coverage. All the main networks have near 16

universal coverage in urban areas, but in rural areas the level of coverage is very much dependent on the network provider; there are large areas of the country that have no coverage at all.

So, how far away are we from the dream of universal access? For starters, we should discount the 10% of households that are not online because they don’t want to be – you can’t force people to surf the net. Many of the 3.5% of people who lack the IT skills to get online are contained within the 10% who see no need to do so and most of them are over the age of 60; time and demographics will chisel away at their numbers. The cost of broadband subscriptions and computers continues to fall steadily; eventually, virtually everyone will be able to afford internet access.

A story that has got a lot of coverage in the press of late concerns plans by both Google and Facebook to use pilotless drones to beam the internet into inaccessible areas where a conventional broadband infrastructure simply does not exist. These huge unmanned aerial vehicles will circle 60,000 feet above the earth. Powered by solar energy, they will be able to stay aloft for months at a time and on board will be what is, effectively, the mother of all wireless routers. The technology already exists in the main; a bigger problem will be getting the approval of whatever aviation authority runs the airspace of the country being broadcast to. To answer the question posed in the title, there will soon be internet access for everyone who wants it.

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Local Parks & Events (Jun14)_Layout 1 24/05/2014 06:29 Page 1

june park events Open Farm Sunday Sun 8th June, 10.30am-5pm Rowley Farm Free event see the animals on rowley Farm and learn where your food and milk comes from. there will be guided tours, tractor rides and games too. park in Black park Car park and follow the signs.

Local Park & Events june into july 18

the world around you. You’ll enjoy a day of practical skills, exploring your potential and enhancing your ability to deal with the unexpected.

Film Walk Sun 29th June, 2pm-3.45pm Black Park Visitor Centre £5 adult; £3 child; £4 cons; £14 family Black park has played host to a great number of major film, television and music productions over the years, including Harry potter and james Bond. join us for a walk around Black park to look at some of the popular locations and see screen shots from the productions.

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5k Cross Country Wed 11th June, 7pm start Langley Park £5.50 (members); £7.50 (non-club) On day entry +£2 second in the three-part race series. the course is one lap of scenic parkland. parking included. visit www.fabian4.co.uk for full details and registration.

Lea Barn Equestrian Sun 22nd June, 10am-4pm Langley Park, Free event Walk down through Langley park to George Green Field and watch the horses in action. For more information, visit www.leabarnequestrian.co.uk

‘A Girls' Night Out’ author event Mon 9th June, 7.30pm-10pm Compass Theatre, Ickenham Featuring best selling female authors: Lisa jewell, jenny Colgan, rowan Coleman and alex Marwood. tickets: £7 includes free paperback book. available from Ickenham Library.

My Writing Life Thurs 12th June, 7pm-8pm Ickenham Library. Free event. an evening with local author jason rohan. ticket required please collect from Ickenham Library.

Summer Fayre Fri 13th June, 3pm-6pm IIver Village Infant School, Grange Way, Iver, Bucks SL0 9NT In aid of Friends of Iver school association. Lots of stalls including BBQ, tombolas, raffle, Cakes, Dog show. to hire a stall please contact pippa vinall on 07771 932108 or pippavinall@aol.com

Film Walk

june events Live Music with The Flyers Fri 6th June, from 9pm The WatersEdge Packet Boat Lane, Cowley, UB9 2JS Big Band bringing you covers from through the years. For details call 01895 440550.

School Summer Fete Sat 7th June, 1pm-4pm Iver Heath Junior, St Margarets Close, Iver Heath SL0 0DA Come and have some fun!

Butterflies Coffee Morning Sat 14th June, 10am-1pm Ickenham Village Hall all proceeds from our various events go to help the teenage Cancer trust.

Family Fun Day Sat 21st June, 12-5pm St Marks Hall, Greentiles Lane, Denham Green, UB9 5HT Come join us for stalls, games, music, bbq etc. all proceed to go to Cancer research. For more info or if you would be interested in having a stall, call nicky on 07944 458147.

Steve Singh sings Elvis!

Sat 21st June, from 8pm North Star, Thorney Mill Road, Iver a whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on! For more details call 01895 442128.

Summer Bingo Evening Sat 21st June, 6.45pm for 7pm.

Iver Village Hall, St Margarets Close, Iver Heath, SL0 0DA £6 entry includes Fish/Chicken & Chips supper. Come on your own or with friends, bring your own drinks, glasses etc. please book with pat 01753 64767

Bushcraft Survival Day Bushcraft & Survival Day Sun 22nd June, 10am-4pm Black Pine’s Camp, £65 join ranger andy to learn bushcraft and survival skills in the inspiring surroundings of Black park. With a relaxed and friendly approach, resident bushcraft and survival expert andy, will share his knowledge and skills. You will leave with a fresh outlook and new understanding of

Ickenham Festival Week Sat 7th - Sat 14th June, Village Hall, Ickenham, UB10 8DG there’s bound to be something of interest - pop along and see!

1940's Afternoon Tea Party Sat 7th June, 2pm-4pm Ickenham Village Hall With music from that period tickets. £5 from flowline Hairdressers.

Butterflies supporting local childrens charities.

Psychic & Mediumship Demos Thurs 26th June, 7.30pm-9.30pm.

Tower Arms Hotel, Richings Park, Iver, SL0 9AE Carole Bromley, professional psychic Medium with guest medium sarah May. tel: 07572 108609

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Local Parks & Events (Jun14)_Layout 1 24/05/2014 06:30 Page 2

Summer Fayre Sat 28th June, 12-3pm.

Denham Village Infant School Bouncy Castle, Grand Raffle, Giant Tombola. Arts & Crafts stalls, refreshments with home made cakes. and lots more entrance by Donation.

and novelty classes, as well as lots of stalls to browse. All in aid of the Thames valley & Chiltern Air Ambulance.

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Summer Show Sat 28th June, 1pm-4pm.

The Great Barn, Ruislip Organised by Ruislip Central Horticultural Society. Come along!

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july pARk EvEnTS History Walk Sat 5th July, 2pm-3.30pm Langley Park Café £4.50 adult; £2.50 child; £3.50 cons; £12 family join writer of the popular book ‘History of langley park’, john Watson, on a walk around langley park to learn about its fascinating history.

Bushcraft Walk Wed 23rd July, 2pm-5.30pm Black Pine’s Camp, £22 adult, £17 child join Andy on an interactive walk to learn the secrets of the forest and uses for natural materials. Finish at Black pine’s Camp to put your new knowledge into practice. Max ratio of 1 adult to 2 children. Over 12s only.

School’s Out for Summer!

Thurs 24th July to Thurs 28th August, 11am-4pm Colne Valley Visitor Centre, Denham Country Park Free Fun and games on the terrace.

Every Thursday during the holidays.

Contact: 01895 833375.

5k Cross Country Wed 9th July, 7pm start Langley Park £5.50 (members); £7.50 (non-club) On day entry +£2 last in the three-part race series.

The course is one lap of scenic parkland. parking included. visit www.fabian4.co.uk for full details and registration.

Basicaly Saxes Sun 13th July, 2pm - 4pm Black Park Café Free entry (donations welcome) live music by the lakeside for your entertainment and to raise money for the Cancer Research uk.

Refreshments available to purchase from the cafe.

Dog Show Sat 19th July, 10.30am - 4pm Langley Park £2 per class, 3 classes for £5 The popular annual show returns to langley park. There will be pedigree

Nature Safari Fri 25th July, 1pm-2pm Langley Park Café £4 per guide Follow the self-led trail set up by our Rangers, finding the clues and learning about the animals that live here. The trail takes around an hour to complete. Start any time between 1pm and 2pm.

Colne Valley Festival

Colne Valley Festival Sun 27th July, 11am-4pm Colne Valley Visitor Centre, Denham Country Park Some activities are free Fun for all the family with canal boat

trips, face painting, crafts, games, model air planes a funfair and much more. Contact: 01895 833375 Den Building Mon 28th & Tues 29th July, 10am-12pm Langley Park Café £16 per family, £3 per extra Have a go at building your own den in langley park with the Country park Rangers. Bring a picnic along to eat in your newly built den!

Fun in the Park Wed 30th July, 12pm-4pm Langley Park Most activities are free The hugely popular family event is back in langley park and is going to be bigger than ever. The afternoon will be fun-packed with activities including falconry displays, sword swallowing and story telling, as well as fun games, face painting and an inflatable slide. There will be plenty of food on offer including a hog roast.

The event will be complimented by the Friends of langley park’s landscape in a seed tray competition.

july EvEnTS Butterflies Vintage Tea Party Thurs 3rd July, from 1.30pm 110 Copthall Road West, UB10 8HT £4 on the gate Entry price includes Tea, Coffee and cakes, various stalls and a Raffle.

All Welcome. supporting SpARkS, Research into safer childbirth Hillingdon & Uxbridge Business Breakfast (HUBB) Thurs 10th July, 8am-9am Bay Lodge, 36 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1PH. Free event In partnership with the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce. Continental breakfast included. please RSvp emma.zovich@wardwilliams.co.uks School Summer Fayre Sat 12th July, 1am-2pm Harefield Infants School & Nursery School Parade, High Street, Harefield, UB9 6BT. lots of fun for all of the family, refreshments, homemade cakes and lots more.

Treasure Island Outdoor Theatre Sat 12th July, 6.30pm Picnics from 5pm The Courtyard, Manor Farm, Ruislip.

Adults from £14.50, Child from £8, Family ticket from £40 performed by Rain or Shine Theatre Company. Tickets: 07806 766993.

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

George

Charlie

        These adorable boys are very loving and playful, despite having had a pretty appalling start to their short lives. Their previous owners grew tired of them, and they were fed only on scraps. Since coming to our centre, they have had unsettled tummies, but with lots of TLC and feeding of the correct food, they are now in a suitable routine and are much healthier and happier.

Not only this, but poor Charlie also came to us with a swelling on his neck, and because it was in such a sensitive area we had to sedate him to investigate, only to find that he had been shot with an air pellet. This traumatic ordeal for both of them hasn’t stopped this gorgeous and trusting pair from loving humans! They are such affectionate boys, and are yearning for new owners who can give them plenty of time for cuddles. Can you provide the loving home that Charlie and George are searching for?

If you think you can offer any of our animals a loving home then please ring the RSPCA Hillingdon Branch on 01895 833417 or visit our website www.rspcahillingdonclinic.org.uk to download an application form.

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YOUR LOCAL RSPCA BRANCH HAS BEEN CARING FOR LOCAL ANIMALS IN NEED FOR OVER 40 YEARS

   With rising costs and diminishing funds, we rely on public support to continue to provide that care PLEASE CAN YOU HELP WITH DONATIONS OF:

Small furniture items Electrical goods * Bric-a-brac Quality clothing Children's goods * Electrical goods with CE mark only please

Local collection may be available - please call.

We are happy to accept donated goods at:

RSPCA Misbourne Cattery Brokengate Lane Denham 01895 833417 07818 870934 or at any of our Charity Shops

Hillingdon, Slough, Windsor, Kingston & District Branch Registered charity no. 263515

YOUR UNWANTED ITEMS HELP US CHANGE LIVES! www.rspcahillingdonclinic.org.uk 23

Finance Credit Where Credit Is Due

  

Ann Haldon www.cornerstonewebcontent.com

If you’ve ever been refused credit, you’ll already know how demoralising it is to be held back in life. Being unable to buy your first house or a new car is bad enough but poor scores can affect your ability to take out a mobile phone contract, hire a car and can even make insurance premiums more expensive.

However, you can improve the situation, and they all start with checking your credit file.

How to access your credit file

Three main credit reference agencies exist in the UK – Equifax, Experian and CallCredit. Equifax and Experian offer a 30-day free trial (but be aware you will be charged if you don’t cancel within 30 days) or just £2 for a statutory report. CallCredit provide free access for life.

Why you should check your report

It pays to check your credit file at least once a year for a number of reasons: • Lenders can make mistakes which you may be able to rectify • An overall view of historic and current borrowing is provided • The chances of identity theft are reduced • Control of finances is significantly improved 24

Are repairs to your credit file possible?

Lots of options exist to boost your credit rating, and taking several small actions adds up to a big improvement over time.

It’s important to remember that having no credit file at all can also hold you back. Young people just starting work are often penalised because they can’t demonstrate their ability to make regular repayments on time, and find themselves in a ‘Catch-22’ situation.

Below are some easily implemented short-term fixes: • Cancel all unused credit cards by writing to the provider and cutting up the card.

• Make sure you are on the electoral register so lenders can identify you and reduce the chances of fraud.

• Stop or reduce the number of credit applications.

• Include a landline phone number on your file, rather than just a mobile number.

• Check that all information is indeed correct, including any late repayments and outstanding loan amounts mentioned.

• ‘Unlink’ yourself from a former partner – if they have a poor credit rating it also affects yours.

Starting from scratch For those with either no

existing credit rating or a very poor score, you will need to find a way to demonstrate financial responsibility.

One option may be to apply for a high interest credit card with a low limit, known as ‘credit-builder’ cards. Provided you make payments on time for a minimum of six months, you will build a good credit file.

Don’t forget to stay within your credit limit or this will damage your rating.

The interest rates on these cards can be eye-watering though, with APRs of up to 39.9% not unusual, so make sure it is always paid off in full.

Alternatively you could apply for a ‘credit-builder’ prepaid card. This type of card involves signing an agreement for a small loan – typically around £60 – which is then repaid at over 12 months.

Similarly, if you have a mobile phone contract, no payment defaults will lead to a good credit score over time.

Lending criteria

A long employment history, living in one place for a long time as a homeowner, and a significant period with the same bank, all contribute towards a positive credit report.

The cost of not keeping an eye on your credit file is high, so check and take action before you are presented with an embarrassing ‘declined’.

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25

Compass Theatre FP (Jun14)_Layout 1 23/05/2014 18:06 Page 1

Ickenham Library presents

A Girls Night Out

What’s on at

Mon 9 June, 7.30pm

Compass Theatre

With authors Rowan Coleman, Jenny Colgan, Lisa Jewell and Alex Marwood joining us to talk about their books, writing relationships and more. There will be the opportunity to meet the authors and have books signed at the end.

Tickets can only be purchased from Ickenham Library and include 1 from a choice of 4 free paperback books.

June 2014

Purple Theatre presents

Hayfever

  

Wed 18 - Sat 21 June, 7.30pm

Proscenium presents

Dinner

Wed 4 - Sat 7 June, 7.45pm

Revenge is a dish best served icy cold.

At the dinner party from hell, selfconfessed ‘rich bitch’ Paige serves up such a dinner. An exceptional meal to celebrate the publication of husband Lars’ book ‘Beyond Belief’. In this deliciously dark satirical comedy, by Moira Buffini. Contains strong language. friends of Ickenham Hall presents

Open Day at Ickenham Hall

Ha! Ha!

Sun 8 June, 12pm

A chance to explore the fascinating history of one of Ickenham's historic houses, the Grade II listed Ickenham Hall. Walk through all it's rooms and learn about the restoration work still being carried out. House open from midday to 5pm. Refreshments and guided tours available. encore Voices & encore Junior Voices presents

The Rhythm of Life

Sun 8 June, 8pm A concert of live music as part of the Ickenham Festival, an evening of musical entertainment performed with style and humour. Featuring popular numbers and songs from famous musicals, including their forthcoming productions Seussical the Musical and Hairspray.

26

Noel Coward gives us an excruciatingly funny comedy on family, friends... and those in between. The eccentric Bliss family were never inclined to consider social conventions. Perhaps it is not surprising that they have each invited a guest for the weekend but neglected to tell the others!

When the unfortunate guests arrive, they find themselves alternately amused, embarrassed, humiliated and ignored as their bohemian hosts continue to behave just as they please. How will their visitors cope?

Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!

Magic Hat Productions presents

Betrayal

Wed 25 - Sat 28 June, 7.45pm An affair in reverse. Emma and Robert are married and Jerry is Robert's best friend. Emma and Jerry have had a seven-year affair.

The action opens with Emma and Jerry meeting for lunch in 1977, two years after the affair has finished and by a brilliant device the relationship of the three is traced backwards nine years to the evening when it all began. Follow the development of the affair in reverse in one Harold Pinter’s most well-known pieces.

CoMPaSS THeaTre Glebe avenue, Ickenham, UB10 8PD. Tel: 079 302 68686 HILLInGDon Box offICe: 01895 673200

Ha!

Ha!

Ha! Ha!

Ha!

Ha!

Ha!

Ha!

Ha!

Ha!

Ha! H

Ha! H

Ha! H

1155-BMad-HostAd1 66x99 CC_Layout 1 17/04/2014 15:4 519-BMad Portrait Adverts 65x95 CC_Layout 1 19/05/2013

Something missing in your life?

The

perfect  alternative to kennels   

Why not look after someone’s dog while they’re away.

Become a host with Barking

Mad

It’s great fun, all of the benefits of dog ownership without the emotional or financial commitment. We carefully match dogs to your home.

Carole Chester 01442 832594 carole.chester@barkingmad.uk.com BarkingMad.uk.com

Let us arrange for your dog/s to stay with one of our local, carefully selected, very special families – because at Barking Mad we believe your dog deserves a holiday too!

For more information, or to find out how to become a host family, please contact Carole Chester

Tel: 01442 832594 Email: carole.chester@barkingmad.uk.com

www.barkingmad.uk.com

27

  Reader Travel

In and Around

                 

Free Drinks

Free

 Drinks           



                   £   PER PERSON

50

DEPOSIT 

WHEN YOU BOOK        BY 27 JUNE           WITH TRAVEL          

BY RAIL

                                     

Rhine in Flames River Cruise

                 Escorted Holiday by Rail or Air

5 DAYS SEMI-ALL-INCLUSIVE

FROM

£649PP

   

Bruges & Valkenburg  Christmas Markets River  Cruise

Escorted Holiday by Rail

5 DAYS SEMI-ALL-INCLUSIVE

FROM

£479PP

 2 October, 2014 - Quote RH10-IA

24 November, 2014 - Quote PC11-4-IA

including Andernach, Rudesheim, Koblenz and Boppard, where you’ll see the Rhine in Flames festival.

Originally held to celebrate the grape harvest, this spectacular pyrotechnics show features an illuminated flotilla of riverboats and curtains of fire, bathing the scene in a magical glow. We have chartered the lovely ms Princess again, exclusively for our guests. She is a firm favourite with our regular river cruise customers.

Join us for a relaxing river cruise taking-in: Valkenburg with its unique Christmas Market Caves; Maastricht, capital of the Dutch province of Limburg and home of world famous musician Andre Rieu; Antwerp, Belgium’s second largest city; Ypres, home to the Flanders in Fields Museum and the Menin Gate, both synonymous with WW1 history; and beautiful Bruges with its wonderful festive atmosphere and markets. We have chartered the lovely ms Princess again because she is a firm favourite with our regular river cruise customers.

 This fun-packed cruise visits historic riverside towns

INCLUDED: Escorted throughout • Rail travel from London St Pancras to Cologne or flights with luggage from Heathrow or Gatwick - supp’t may apply • 4 nights fullboard cruise on the mps Princess sharing a twin bed outside cabin - upgrades available • Beer, wine by the glass and a choice of 2 Dutch spirits served at lunch & dinner and from 6pm to midnight at the bar • Entertainment • Transfers abroad

INCLUDED: Escorted throughout abroad • Return rail travel from London St Pancras (from Ebbsfleet on request) to Brussels • 4 nights full-board cruise on the mps Princess sharing a twin bed outside cabin - upgrades available • Beer, wine by the glass and a choice of 2 Dutch spirits served at lunch & dinner and from 6pm to midnight at the bar • Entertainment • Transfers abroad

Call 01895 83 33 33 GN Voyages Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays.

GN Holidays & Voyages www. gnvoyages.co.uk • Email: info@gnvoyages.co.uk Higher Denham, Uxbridge UB9 5EL

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Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough Steaming Back to the 40s

 2D £129 H B ALF

AYS OARD

PP

Brighton Bluebell Steam & Cream

£59PP

GREAT DAY OUT

Saturday 5 July, 2014 - Quote SF7-IA INCLUDED: 1 night at the Hilton Hotel, Bromsgrove with dinner & breakfast • ‘Hopper’ train ticket for Severn Valley Railway visiting nostalgia events and activities at the stations • Visit to Worcester • Coach travel and excursions

Thursday 17 July, 2014 - Quote BR7-IA

Oxford, Thames Cruise & Afternoon Tea

Buckingham Palace & Tea on the Thames

GREAT DAY OUT

£69PP

Brighton • Return coach travel

£89PP

GREAT DAY OUT

Wednesday 23 July, 2014 - Quote TC7-IA INCLUDED: Free time in Oxford • 40-minute Thames cruise from Oxford to Sandford • Afternoon Tea at the Oxford Thames Four Pillars Hotel • Return coach travel

Bourton on the Water & Stratford-upon-Avon Afternoon Tea Cruise GREAT DAY OUT

INCLUDED: 1.5 hour steam train ride on the historic Bluebell Line with a cream tea • Free time in

Wednesday 30 July, 2014 - Quote BP7-IA INCLUDED: Admission to Buckingham Palace Gardens & State Rooms • Afternoon Tea on the Yacht London, moored on the Thames near Waterloo Bridge • Return coach travel

10

Tenby & Bath

£49PP

3 DAYS HALF BOARD

£ pp DEPOSIT

£159PP

Thursday 7 August, 2014 - Quote BW8-IA

Friday 22 August, 2014 - Quote GW8-IA

INCLUDED: Free time in Bourton on the Water • 90minute Avon cruise on The Countess of Evesham • Afternoon Tea on board - fresh scones, jam, cream, strawberries, tea or coffee • Return coach travel

INCLUDED: 2 nights stay at the Park Inn Hotel, Cardiff • 2 dinners and 2 breakfasts • Visits to Bath and Tenby • Coach travel and excursions

Call 01895 83 33 33 GN Holidays & Voyages, Higher Denham, Uxbridge UB9 5EL

Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays. www. gnholidays.com • Email: info@gnholidays.com

ABTA No. Y0291 29

The  Leaning  Tower of Pisa

By Solange Hando On 5th January 1172, a widow named Berta di Bernardo passed away in Pisa, a prosperous city bristling with thousands of impressive towers. Yet, the cathedral didn’t have one of its own so the pious Berta left 60 ‘soldi’ in her Will to put things right.

The foundations were laid 18 months later.

Problems arose almost straightaway. The marshy ground struggled to accommodate the heavy marble blocks and for the next two centuries, it was all stop and start for the free-standing tower. Completed at last in the 1370s, it is the only monument in the cathedral ground which does not bear a signature.

The tower kept on leaning throughout the ages, though little was done until the belfry of St Mark’s in Venice collapsed in 1902. The time had come to keep a close eye on Pisa and after long years of deliberations, it was decided that the tilt would be checked every year in June on the same day with the same instrument. All sorts of plans were hatched, injecting 90 tons of liquid cement, which almost led to disaster, lifting the tower 30

to strengthen the foundations, which never came to fruition, but eventually in 1990, the ‘Iron Lady’ was forced to close her door. A new commission set to work, binding the weakest point with concealed steel cables, then piling tons of lead on the north side while Alpine climbers installed a new monitoring system. For fear of vibration damage, the bells fell silent for seven years.

In 1995, ‘Black September’ struck in the middle of the night as, following the injection of liquid nitrogen to secure anchors, a successful technique used in the London underground, the tower suddenly tilted at an alarming rate, causing great anxiety as diggers and cranes were frantically moved to the north side to increase the counterweight, before lead could be added.

The battle was finally won in 2001 with tons of earth painstakingly removed under the tower, a few hundred grams at a time, to lower the side opposite the overhang.

After 12 years and millions of lire, the leaning tower reemerged, safe and beautifully pristine, despite its somewhat

diminished iconic slant. Today, the visitors are back, just 30 at a time, climbing the 293 marble steps spiralling inside, slippery and smooth, hollowed out in the centre by millions of footprints. The incline takes you by surprise before you even step through the door and is most apparent on the lower floors as you lean one way then the other, but the view from the top is superb, the entire piazza at your feet, the cathedral and baptistry gleaming on extensive lawns, the red roofs of Pisa, the Tuscan hills and the blue waters of the Mediterranean glistening in the distance.

But whether you climb up or stay on the ground, the tower remains a unique focal point in this superb World Heritage site. Rising to a lofty 56 meters, it looks like a giant wedding cake, eight creamy tiers decorated with a total of 207 delicate columns. Yet, it is an amazingly resilient building with over 32,000 marble blocks encircling a hollow cylindrical centre. Monitoring continues on a daily basis but experts are confident now that the tower is safe for at least 200 years. The pious lady of Pisa would be pleased.

   

31

 Spring is sprung, the grass is riz, and suddenly the talk is about elections. At a local level, Polling Cards have been dropping through letterboxes announcing the forthcoming votes for councillors and MEP’s. As far as the country as a whole is concerned, there is a byelection in Newark on 5th June (caused by the resignation of yet another MP on the take), and the parties’ election machines are also slowly gearing up for the main event, the next General Election which will take place in 2015.

As my mother is always happy to tell my wife and me, people chained themselves to railings and threw themselves under racehorses so that we could vote, so we always try to make sure we exercise our democratic right. The European and Local elections represent a new departure for us, however, as we will be away on holiday on the appointed day. We were tempted on this occasion to just accept that we would not be able to vote, but in view of the fact that Europe has occupied centre stage in the news media in recent weeks we decided to apply for a postal vote. In addition, it would have been irresponsible of us not to vote in the Local election, because here in our little corner of the world (Harefield) we get a pretty good deal from local government. So, a postal vote it is. Everything was organised very smoothly and we have just sent our envelopes off. So easy, in fact, that it might be the way forward.......

The Newark byelection has also been linked with the Euro elections. Early rumours suggested that Nigel Farage, the UKIP leader, might be looking to stand at Newark. In the event, however, he has decided against it, on the basis that his main priority is the campaign against Europe, and contesting a June byelection would obviously divert his attention from the Euro elections on 22nd May. Whatever your views on UKIP’s policies, there is no doubt that the party is turning heads in mainstream Britain and their share of opinion polls has steadily been on the rise.

As I have mentioned here in the past, Farage’s tirades in the 32

European Parliament are often wellargued, and worth watching on Youtube for their comedy value alone. It will be interesting to see if this translates into votes on the larger stages, but I imagine the main parties are not totally unhappy that he has declined to stand in Newark.

In Europe itself, yet another crossroads seems to be in sight. For the past few months the news has been largely good. Economic data has been positive, with (strangely enough) good performances from Italy, Spain and Ireland, together with the everpresent Germany. The financial markets are often a good reflection of the standing of individual countries, and in recent weeks both Italy and Ireland have managed to borrow money at interest rates comparable to those paid by the US and the UK. Perhaps this is a real sign that the Eurozone is on the mend.

In the last few days, however, things might have started to wobble. Suddenly, statistics from France and Italy are pointing back towards recession, and today’s numbers suggest that, without the powerhouse of Germany, the EU would already be back in negative territory.

Once again, it may be that the old rules are becoming true, namely that there are some EU countries where you should invest (well, just Germany really) and some other EU countries where you like to go on holiday, but these are never the same.

In any event, we can expect the usual volley of party political broadcasts and media attention in the run up to the elections. I noticed the Green Party’s appearance on TV the other evening, but not for any reasons that would make them happy.

Meanwhile, the Daily Mail is as keen as ever to point out the unacceptable side of anything foreign. Today’s leading article showed a Turkish government official assaulting a relative following the coal mine disaster. Absolutely disgraceful as it was, I couldn’t help but wonder if it had achieved headline status because the official bore more than a passing resemblance to Ed Miliband.

So, Farage thinks we should be out of Europe, I understand that Cameron has promised us a referendum if he wins. The Sky weather girls tell me the sun will be shining and it will be 25 degrees this weekend. Whatever do we need Europe for ........?

33

 Cake and 

Bake

Lemon Curd Cookies Crisp and buttery with a tangy lemon flavour these delicious home-made cookies taste divine. You can change the flavourings if liked, try orange zest with fine shred marmalade or replace 1tbsp of the flour with cocoa powder and fill with chocolate and hazelnut spread for a moreish choc and nut version!

Ingredients: • 50g butter, softened • 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest • 85g caster sugar • 1 medium egg, beaten • 175g plain flour, plus extra for dusting • 4 tbsp good quality lemon curd • Icing sugar, for dusting

TIP The chilled dough will keep in the fridge for 2-3 days. Leave at room temperature for about 20 minutes to allow the dough to soften a little before rolling out otherwise it may crack.

Makes 16 - Ready in 30 minutes plus chilling 34

1 Place the butter and sugar in a large bowl and

beat together until light and fluffy. Beat in the lemon zest and egg then sift over the flour and mix to a crumbly dough.

2 Gather the mixture together with your hands

and knead on a floured surface until smooth.

Flatten to a disc shape, wrap in cling film and chill in the fridge for about 45 minutes.

3 Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°F/gas mark 4.

Line two baking sheets with baking parchment.

4 Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to a 5mm thickness and using a 6cm round cookie cutter stamp out 16 circles, re-rolling the dough as necessary.

5 Place the circles of dough on the baking sheets.

Spoon about ½ teaspoon of lemon curd in the centre of each circle then pull up two sides of the each circle and pinch together tightly to seal. Chill in the fridge for a further 30 minutes.

6 Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes

until pale golden. Cool for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire cooling rack and leave to cool completely. Serve dusted with icing sugar.

 ...with Hillingdon Narrrowboats Association We offer affordable narrowboating and training for Youth and Community groups of all ages and abilities.

  At HNA, we like to combine the enjoyment of cruising with practical learning about our  boats and how to operate them. You'll learn about some of the history of the canal, as well as seeing the local wildlife in abundance.

Teambuilding for all...

We operate five 72 foot long craft which can be hired for four hours or longer, including residential trips, to allow you to enjoy cruising along the Grand Union Canal from our base in Harefield.

Narrowboating is great to help develop new skills, team building, and improves social awareness and confidence around others. We can even introduce a competitive element to challenge teams if two boats are taken together!

Canals have over 200 years of history...

We offer various training courses, and qualifications for all, from Competent Crew right up to a Certificate in Community Boat Management and the Under 18s Community Boat Leadership Project.

Take a look at our website www.hna.org.uk and find our more about your local charity, and see what we do.

If you're part of a youth group, school, care home, or are working with Scouts, Guides, Cadets - to name just a few - we'd love to talk to you to show what we can offer.

Hillingdon Narrowboats Association Email: bookings@mail.hna.org.uk Call: 01895 823 582 or 07860 857 877 Web: www.hna.org.uk Registered with the Charities Commission No 1029007.

Registered Company 2615065

g tin a bo ity w n rro mu a N m l e Co b a e r d r th o f A f Fo

.

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    

 

Dale Lyddon is launching his own Oven Cleaning Business as part of the Oven Wizards Franchise.

Dale has lived in the local area all his life, and, as he knows the area really well, he believes there will be a strong demand for his services.

Dale says “I was looking for a business idea that would be something I would enjoy doing and that would provide a great service to local people. I came across the idea of an oven cleaning business and then started to research the market. I soon realised that becoming an Oven Wizard offered me a great opportunity, particularly with the support of a successful Franchise Brand.

A recent Survey carried out in 2013 indicates that oven cleaning is one of the most hated chores in the home. Taking into account the fact that there are over 26 million households in the UK and that nearly each one has at least one oven and a hob, the growing domestic cleaning market therefore provides unlimited opportunities to delight our customers.

You can also contact Dale on 01895 310207 and 07834 696611 or go onto his web site www.ovenwizards.com

Mark Abbott, owner of the Oven Wizards business said “From the first time we met Dale, we knew he would make a great success of running an Oven Wizards Franchise, particularly because of his great passion for customer service.”

Mark went on to explain “There is a growing demand from people who want to have their oven’s professionally cleaned because it is probably the hardest and most hated job in most households ”.

Oven Wizards have provided Dale with comprehensive training which will enable him to professionally clean all sorts of makes and models of ovens.

As well as Uxbridge and Ruislip, Dale also covers Ickenham, Gerrards Cross, Chalfont, Pinner, Eastcote and Hatch End. 36

B

* S

10

% OFF

PER PERSON*   

Black Park Country Park, nr Uxbridge

e.co.uk te INAND Book at goap call 0845 643 9218 quo or

Top Adventure & Forest y-Friday. Offer valid at Black Park Tree *Offer valid until 30th November 2014, Sunda te. websi the see e pleas apply ratios Segways. Participation and supervision 37

    The answer to both these questions is a resounding ‘No!’ If I had a pound for the number of times I’ve been asked whether it’s worth continuing with the campaign to prevent the proposed highspeed train project (HS2) from going ahead and ruining Denham and the Colne Valley in perpetuity I’d be able to afford to treat every reader of this magazine to a slapup meal at one of the many fine restaurants in and around Denham. This would include the wine and the tip.

Unfortunately, the moaners and cynics never hand over a pound as they bend my ear, so your next fine dining experience will have to wait  unless you can fork out for it yourself.

Too many people watched the news on the night the Second Reading of the HS2 Hybrid Bill was whisked through the Commons with a majority of about 400, and assumed the worst. Of our local MPs, Dominic Grieve was unable to vote because of pressing business in Newcastle; Nick Hurd abstained; only Sir John Randall spoke out against HS2, likening his misgivings about the project to the invasion of Iraq that led to the downfall of both Saddam Hussein and, eventually, Tony Blair. There are many more backbenchers who share Sir John’s views, but didn’t have the guts to speak out.

‘You can’t ever defeat Central Government,’ one local resident wrote to me recently. ‘Once they decide to do something, there’s nothing to stop them,’ emailed another. Really? Please see above and recall what happened to New Labour when they cobbled together a dodgy dossier to justify the second Gulf War. Or think further back, to when Margaret Thatcher’s government thought the Poll Tax was rather a good idea. In a democracy, there are always ways of making your voice heard and throwing out the people who make bad decisions.

The HS2 Bill that passed so smoothly through the House of Commons at the end of April was nothing more than draft legislation, which is subject to all kinds of amendments and corrections before it becomes law. It will have to pass muster in the House of Lords, which usually means it’s sent back to the other place with a scribble of blue pencil through it and a verdict of: ‘Must do better’.

One way the Commons can improve on the deeply flawed draft legislation is through the efforts of the Select Committee that’s been assembled in the last month to hear the 1,000plus petitions submitted by individuals, businesses, action groups and local 38

authorities, outlining their grievances about the plans for the railway and suggesting improvements.

Unfortunately, the most sensible improvement – scrapping HS2 altogether to save the taxpayer about £80 billion – is not available to us at the moment, but there are many improvements we have in mind to make the impact of the sevenyear construction period less hideous than it promises to be at present.

For every piece of ancient woodland they intend to cut down, we can demand equivalent planting somewhere else in the neighbourhood. For every road, footpath closure or traffic diversion, we’ve suggest a new road, improved public transport services or extra works to repair and improve the landscape. We can reasonably ask HS2 Ltd’s contractors to restrict their hours of working, the routes their heavy goods vehicles take, the size of their planned construction camps, the amount of noise they make, the number of hedgerows they destroy and so on.

We can continue to put pressure on the government to consider more generous compensation packages to householders and businesses who are going to be out of pocket as a consequence of living in the firing line of the high speed train, and we can highlight the shoddy consultation process that’s left so many of us in the dark about the possible impact of this latest assault on our precious patch of Green Belt on the edge of London.

Around the turn of the year, we expect dozens of local petitioners to be called before the select Committee to present their arguments, and we’re also expecting the six MPs on the committee to make some local site visits to see for themselves the likely impact that the construction of the railway would have.

When Crossrail was being mooted, hundreds of petitioners made their points to the Select Committee, and brought about important modifications, including extra tunnelling and a new station at Woolwich. We can influence the HS2 Select Committee in the same way.

So we  have a say, after all. We  make a difference. It’s  a done deal, and we’re far from doomed. Central government is not some kind of faceless juggernaut that we’re powerless to resist.

And a year from now, after the General Election, the political picture might look very different. We’ll still be around, but where will they be?

39

40

41

Health Osteoarthritis

By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk

an arthroscope, which incorporates a light source and camera, through a small incision to inspect the joint space. A blood test, MRI scan or joint aspiration (removal of a little joint fluid for analysis) can rule out other types of arthritis.

Am I at risk of osteoarthritis?

Sometimes osteoarthritis has no obvious cause, but chances of developing it increase if you: • Are a woman • Are over 45 • Are overweight (due to pressure on joints, and inflammatory chemicals from fat tissue) • Have a physically demanding job • Make many repetitive movements (not only at work - studies show that repetitive movements while texting or playing videogames could contribute too) • Have a family history of osteoarthritis • Have had an infection or disease that causes joint damage, e.g. gout, or joint injury • Have had a major operation on a joint • Have muscle weakness • Were born with a joint abnormality or developed one in childhood How can I avoid or treat osteoarthritis?

Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding prolonged repetitive movement lessens the chance of developing osteoarthritis, while regular exercise to strengthen muscles and ligaments will reduce joint strain. These steps will also lessen symptoms. Swimming is ideal as it exercises joints gently, while aerobic exercise will

stimulate endorphins, hormones which act as pain relievers.

There are several types of medication that can reduce symptoms: • Simple painkillers (analgesics) e.g. paracetamol • Stronger painkillers that contain opioids e.g. co-dydamol • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen, which relieve pain and reduce inflammation (often available as creams too) • Capsaicin cream, which reduces pain by blocking nerve endings • Steroids injected directly into the joint • Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, which may repair cartilage Physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, massage, heat or ice packs and complementary treatments, such as acupuncture and aromatherapy, can be useful.

There are also special aids and appliances which can make everyday tasks easier and less painful.

Repairing Damage In severe osteoarthritis surgery may be necessary, from simple arthroscopy – where small instruments are used via the arthroscope to remove or repair damaged cartilage – through osteotomy and joint fusion, to total joint replacements.

What about diet?

Alliums such as garlic and onions may prevent or slow osteoarthritis, as they contain a chemical that limits cartilagedamaging enzymes. Many ‘osteoarthritis diets’ have little scientific back-up but experts agree that a more plant-based diet with less saturated fat is beneficial, as saturated fats can cause inflammation and aggravate your arthritis.

   The term ‘arthritis’ covers over 200 joint conditions, but osteoarthritis is the most common, affecting over 8.75 million people in the UK. Usually most severe in joints that are heavily used, such as the knees and hips, it’s also often found in the neck, back, hands, wrists and big toes.

Sometimes called degenerative or mechanical arthritis, it occurs when joint cartilage becomes thin or damaged. Cartilage is a shock absorber, cushioning bone ends during joint movement.

When it deteriorates bones rub together, causing bone ends and surrounding tissues to thicken, while synovial fluid in the joint (another shock-absorber) can decrease or become less effective. These changes can cause inflammation and sometimes distortion.

Symptoms Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness and reduced joint movement, particularly after resting, and grinding or crunching sensations when moving a joint.

Diagnosis An x-ray is usually required and sometimes an arthroscopy will be performed, usually under general anaesthetic.

This involves the insertion of 42

43

In and Around Reader Travel Free Drinks

Free Drinks

 £50

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WHEN YOU BOOK BY 27 JUNE WITH TRAVEL

BY RAIL

Rhine in Flames River Cruise

Escorted Holiday by Rail or Air 5 DAYS SEMI-ALL-INCLUSIVE

FROM

£649PP

Bruges & Valkenburg Christmas Markets River Cruise

Escorted Holiday by Rail

5 DAYS SEMI-ALL-INCLUSIVE

FROM

£479PP

2 October, 2014 - Quote RH10-IA

24 November, 2014 - Quote PC11-4-IA

This fun-packed cruise visits historic riverside towns including Andernach, Rudesheim, Koblenz and Boppard, where you’ll see the Rhine in Flames festival.

Originally held to celebrate the grape harvest, this spectacular pyrotechnics show features an illuminated flotilla of riverboats and curtains of fire, bathing the scene in a magical glow. We have chartered the lovely ms Princess again, exclusively for our guests. She is a firm favourite with our regular river cruise customers.

Join us for a relaxing river cruise taking-in: Valkenburg with its unique Christmas Market Caves; Maastricht, capital of the Dutch province of Limburg and home of world famous musician Andre Rieu; Antwerp, Belgium’s second largest city; Ypres, home to the Flanders in Fields Museum and the Menin Gate, both synonymous with WW1 history; and beautiful Bruges with its wonderful festive atmosphere and markets. We have chartered the lovely ms Princess again because she is a firm favourite with our regular river cruise customers.

INCLUDED: Escorted throughout • Rail travel from London St Pancras to Cologne or flights with luggage from Heathrow or Gatwick - supp’t may apply • 4 nights fullboard cruise on the mps Princess sharing a twin bed outside cabin - upgrades available • Beer, wine by the glass and a choice of 2 Dutch spirits served at lunch & dinner and from 6pm to midnight at the bar • Entertainment • Transfers abroad

INCLUDED: Escorted throughout abroad • Return rail travel from London St Pancras (from Ebbsfleet on request) to Brussels • 4 nights full-board cruise on the mps Princess sharing a twin bed outside cabin - upgrades available • Beer, wine by the glass and a choice of 2 Dutch spirits served at lunch & dinner and from 6pm to midnight at the bar • Entertainment • Transfers abroad

Call 01895 83 33 33 GN Voyages Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays.

GN Holidays & Voyages www. gnvoyages.co.uk • Email: info@gnvoyages.co.uk Higher Denham, Uxbridge UB9 5EL

44

ABTA No. Y0291 ATOL 9362

W I T T c

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 

 

Coach Breaks departing from Uxbridge, Ruislip & Slough Steaming Back to the 40s

 2D £129 H B

   

   

  

 

ALF

AYS OARD

PP

Brighton Bluebell Steam & Cream

£59PP

GREAT DAY OUT

Saturday 5 July, 2014 - Quote SF7-IA INCLUDED: 1 night at the Hilton Hotel, Bromsgrove with dinner & breakfast • ‘Hopper’ train ticket for Severn Valley Railway visiting nostalgia events and activities at the stations • Visit to Worcester • Coach travel and excursions

Thursday 17 July, 2014 - Quote BR7-IA

Oxford, Thames Cruise & Afternoon Tea

Buckingham Palace & Tea on the Thames

GREAT DAY OUT

£69PP

Brighton • Return coach travel

£89PP

GREAT DAY OUT

Wednesday 23 July, 2014 - Quote TC7-IA INCLUDED: Free time in Oxford • 40-minute Thames cruise from Oxford to Sandford • Afternoon Tea at the Oxford Thames Four Pillars Hotel • Return coach travel

Bourton on the Water & Stratford-upon-Avon Afternoon Tea Cruise GREAT DAY OUT

INCLUDED: 1.5 hour steam train ride on the historic Bluebell Line with a cream tea • Free time in

Wednesday 30 July, 2014 - Quote BP7-IA INCLUDED: Admission to Buckingham Palace Gardens & State Rooms • Afternoon Tea on the Yacht London, moored on the Thames near Waterloo Bridge • Return coach travel

10

Tenby & Bath

£49PP

3 DAYS HALF BOARD

£ pp DEPOSIT

£159PP

Thursday 7 August, 2014 - Quote BW8-IA

Friday 22 August, 2014 - Quote GW8-IA

INCLUDED: Free time in Bourton on the Water • 90minute Avon cruise on The Countess of Evesham • Afternoon Tea on board - fresh scones, jam, cream, strawberries, tea or coffee • Return coach travel

INCLUDED: 2 nights stay at the Park Inn Hotel, Cardiff • 2 dinners and 2 breakfasts • Visits to Bath and Tenby • Coach travel and excursions

Call 01895 83 33 33 GN Holidays & Voyages, Higher Denham, Uxbridge UB9 5EL

Open 9am to 5.30pm weekdays 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturdays. www. gnholidays.com • Email: info@gnholidays.com

ABTA No. Y0291 45

46

Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H Ha! H

Ha! Ha Ha! Ha

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                                                                                                                                                                              48

                                                                                                                                                         

                                                                                                                                       

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 

This year sees the anniversary tioning of Denham Golf club 10.30am service will be held, of the Great War. A time for train station made this area an then on 13th September we will be hosting a village cricket reflection and remembrance, ideal location. Picture the match, something very tradiwhen we collectively pay re- scene in the early part of 1914 tionally British and something spects to those a small train station who fought in starting with a with just one platform WW1 saw an end to. The that dreadful parade at 10am crowded with young "Golden age" of cricket ceased when a letter from W.G Grace war. It is not just courageous men awaiton 3rd August about rememing their train to take sent to the Sportsman on the 27th August declared “I think bering those them to London and the time has arrived when the who died, but remembering then onward to a destination county cricket season should those that survived, and the only their imaginations could be closed, for impact it had on how we live see. That station th today. Denham Parish Council now just a quiet 13 September we it is not fitting will be hosting a at a time like considers the huge sacrifice commuter stop in a this that ableand commitment the people of leafy suburb of Lonvillage cricket bodied men this Parish made. Higher Den- don, with passengers match should be ham played a role in the train- carrying laptops and playing cricket by day and ing of the young soldiers as it handbags instead of rifles and pleasure-seekers look on. I was the home of a WW1 train- tin hats. should like to see all first-class ing and transit camp. The posicricketers of suitable age set a Following the war the surgood example and come to the rounding land was sold off help of their country without piecemeal and a large part of it delay in its hour of need.” is now Martin Bakers Aircraft Ltd. As a Parish Council we have planned two event’s to commemorate this occasion starting with a parade at 10am on 3rd August from Denham ATC and Denham Brass Band from the Village hall to St Marys Church where the normal 50

A programme of events will be available soon, but do keep these dates free in your diaries to join us in commemorating this occasion.

50 Years

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Open

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The Wildlife Zone...FP (Jun14)_Layout 1 24/05/2014 03:57 Page 1

the wildlife zone

the sly fox Andy Mydellton fls (pictured right) is an environmentalist journalist, the founder and leader of the British wildlife charity, the foundation for endangered species. they are members of the United nations agency UnesCo with Andy Mydellton being Chairman and the environmental Concern Advisor to the UnesCo schools Group.

Andy is a fellow of the linnean society. he writes for many publications, mounts photographic exhibitions, gives presentations and broadcasts the 'Andy Mydellton wildlife zone' radio programme.

The ‘sly, urban fox’

foxes live surprisingly close to people in Britain’s major cities especially in London where houses lie adjacent to parks, railway banks, gardens and waste land. These members of the wild dog family make their dens, hunt for food and raise their cubs in the undisturbed peace and quiet of these sites. It has taken only 250 years since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution for some foxes to have successfully adapted from the verdant hills and fields to an urban lifestyle. This may seem like a long time, but in the evolutionary world of wildlife it is a blink of an eye.

Under present legislation hunting foxes with horses and hounds is banned despite continuing support in some rural areas. But in cities, migrant foxes have procured warm friends who oppose the cold hearted views of the traditionalist foxhunting fraternity. one possible reason why foxes benefit from this burgeoning relationship is because they are attractive, red furry mammals. As a result some people would dearly love to give these wild animals hugs and cuddles. Moreover these animals clearly do not pose a threat in the way that was once believed.

However a couple of years ago a media campaign was choreographed which claimed that urban foxes attacked people, including children. There was always doubt about these stories amongst journalists, writers and politicians, and that the truth was that domestic dogs may have been involved in such incidents. foxhunting and blood sport organisations have been seen as the people behind these stories. The aim of this hostile ‘news’ was to regenerate this bad reputation with the general public and so gain support to renew foxhunting. The foxes’ problem (as well as other wildlife) is that once an animal has a bad reputation, it is easy to promulgate and difficult to change.

However, many (but not all) people are too wise to be manipulated by such stories. somehow foxes have also perceived a burgeoning friendliness and changing attitudes by regularly returning to their chosen gardens with their cubs. Moreover they now live by, under and even in outhouses as well as other buildings.

There is a fox den adjacent to Millstream Fork. so when fox cubs were old enough to leave their den, they were seen brazenly walking around in broad daylight. some urbanites may think that such experiences are somehow ‘unnatural’ whilst others disagree and accept the fox as just another animal gradually adapting to the municipal and industrial world. so whilst the fox can now be classified as a garden animal it is one of an increasing number of animals which are learning how to live with and put up with humans. other major animals include species of deer, especially the skittish muntjac. one positive benefit comes from the carnivorous fox being at the top of the food chain.

As a result they hunt and control the numbers of rodents and unpleasant prey; becoming the cities’ ‘hoovers’ by cleaning up these parts of the town which would otherwise be out of natural balance.

Throughout the centuries society has often imposed bad reputations onto animals. The mind sets of descending generations have been diluted or refined according to the enveloping contemporary attitudes. In the last 150 years increased schooling and modern higher education has led to greater intelligence and modern attitudes. Today many psychologists and sociologists believe that much of the old public naivety is reducing and that people question old folklores, wives tales and the values they once held.

However, some old labels could continue such as the ‘Sly Fox’, which has been embedded in our literary traditions and culture. some people have reckoned this as being an evil characteristic; however the fox’s calculating mind, opportunism and cunning are necessary features for its survival strategy in outwitting its prey. some conservationists and members of the public now admire the foxes’ intelligence especially when they can draw similarities with their own pet dogs.

However, the ways and means of natural history are sometimes difficult to grasp as I found out some years ago. I had left the windows open and was lying in bed in the early hours of the morning in half slumber when I heard a piercing cry of what I feared to be a baby being murdered. It seemed to be real, although being half asleep I accepted that it may have been part of a dream. Within minutes I heard it again, and this time I was certain that it was a real sound which came from the garden. over the following days I asked my neighbours what this horrifying shriek could have been. They told me that there was nothing sinister to worry about, and that it was the mating cry of a vixen.

I was startled by this as well as being freed from all of my darkest fears that I may have heard an awful crime. Perhaps this was one of the contributing causes of how the fox’s horrible identity had begun and then spiralled out of all proportion centuries ago.

  

the charities’ contact details are www.ffes.org.uk email: info@ffes.org.uk 52

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A more caring approach to  care at  home.

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Beauty Beach Ready Beauty

By Helen Taylor methodically, covering every inch of your skin evenly. Don’t forget you are likely to need help to do your back.

and remember to re-apply after swimming. And use a nourishing balm for your lips too.

   You’ve been toning up and getting into shape for months, ready to flaunt your bikini body on the beach. So, now your holiday is just around the corner, it’s time plan your holiday beauty routine.

Fake it First Winter pale skin does not look great in a bikini, so you’ll need to fake the golden glow. Head to the beauty salon (for best results) or to the shops (if on a budget) and prepare your skin.

Thorough exfoliation is key and it’s best done the night before.

Concentrate on those areas prone to dryness like knees, ankles and elbows.

Allow at least 24 hours between waxing and tanning. If you tan too soon after waxing your pores and hair follicles will still be open and you may find that the product builds up leaving you with dark dots.

Be really generous with your moisturiser and put plenty on your knees, elbows and feet.

If you are going for the DIY option, don a pair of latex gloves, squeeze a dollop of fake tan on to your hand and then work quickly and 54

Heavenly Hair If your hair is a bit dry, or has splitends, a couple of weeks in the sun and in sea-water or chlorinated pools will make the matter far worse. Book a trim before you head off.

At the poolside, slather a leavein conditioner onto your hair.

This will help to protect against sun damage and will leave your locks looking thoroughly shiny, as the heat makes the product even more effective.

Always rinse your tresses with fresh water after swimming in the sea or pool. Both salt and chlorine will really dry your hair out.

If your hair is long enough keep it pinned up during the day and preferably covered up too. Not only will this protect your hair, put it will also protect your head which can easily burn along a parting line.

Sumptuous Skin The three important steps which you should follow at home are cleanse, tone and moisturise, and it’s even more important on holiday.

Regularly apply and re-apply sunscreen. Ensuring that your entire body is protected against damaging UV rays is a must. Use a high factor,

Wear a large hat on the beach.

Not only will you look chic, you’ll also be protecting the delicate skin on your face too.

Always apply after-sun lotion. A long day on the beach calls for plenty of after-sun when you get back to the hotel.

Minimal Make-Up Keep make-up light in the day by swapping a fullcoverage foundation with a tinted moisturiser. Cover imperfections with a little concealer.

Wear one coat of quality waterproof mascara on your top lashes for definition. Better still, arrange a trip to your beauty salon for an eyelash and eyebrow tint before you jet off.

A peachy coloured blush will look fabulous with bronzed skin and is much better than pink hues which only serve to add more redness to already flushed cheeks.

Unhealthy hangover Drink plenty of water each day, more if you’re out in the hot sun for long periods of time. Of course you are on holiday so if you do indulge in cocktails and beers, try to alternate each alcoholic drink with water.

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Plotting a Vegetable Garden   

by Pippa Greenwood

Even the smallest garden can find space to grow vegetables.

Start now and you can enjoy delicious home-grown salads all summer long.

Producing useful quantities of your own vegetables doesn’t take up as much space as you might imagine. There’s a lot you can plant out or grow from seed right now that will give you some super-tasty, succulent, and top-quality salads in just a few weeks’ time. And salad leaves grown in ornamental pots can be as decorative as they are nutritious.

Before you get sowing or planting, choose the right containers. Big ones are easier to maintain than small ones; and of course bigger pots mean more produce. Go for something of at least 30cm (12in) in diameter, larger if possible.

As salad crops tend to be pretty short-term there’s no need to spend a fortune on compost. Ideally choose a good-quality multi-purpose compost, but you can get perfectly acceptable results with the contents of a growingbag. I find the quality of the compost in these isn’t all that brilliant, but for the time you need it – and provided you keep it well-fertilised – it’ll be 56

adequate.

If you grow your own salad leaves you can get precisely the mix you like best. There are plenty of eye-catching lettuces such as the frilly Lollo, either a gorgeous bright-green standard Lollo a burgundytinged Lollo Rosso or a mixture of both. Treat them as cut-andcome-again crops, snipping off the leaves as you want them but not cutting into to the base, then they’ll put out new shoots and keep cropping for longer.

Baby beet leaves are a popular salad ingredient, too. Choose a variety like Bull’s Blood for the prettiest leaves or grow any of the standard varieties, and you’ll also get a great-tasting root crop later on. I generally harvest the young leaves a few at a time but let the plant produce a root too.

There are still plenty of tomato plants in the shops now, but hunt carefully to find the ones that are still in top condition.

If you choose an outdoor variety it can be grown in a pot on its own, and if you have a big enough container you can grow some other salad ingredients around the edge of the container.

If you’re after some fire in your cooking, a chilli pepper thrives in a pot in a warm and very

sheltered spot as do sweet peppers.

Fresh herbs can make a salad more interesting too. Choose your favourites and either grow them in a dedicated herb pot with extra grit in the compost for good drainage, or even consider popping a few in with your main crops.

Vegetables, like most plants, do best in a relatively warm spot with plenty of sun, so site your containers carefully.

You want them to be easily accessible from the kitchen, but it’s more important to ensure they’re sheltered from the wind yet still get enough sun.

You may prefer to raise some of your crops in pots and grow them on a bit before planting them out. The garden containers will always be full and looking their best, even while you’re harvesting them. The new plantings will very quickly blend in with the old, and all summer long you’ll have a garden that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the tastebuds.

Visit Pippa’s website, www. pippagreenwood.com, for ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’, the AskPippa Q&A service, Nemaslug, natural pest controls, and lots more.

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CHILD BENEFIT TAX CHARGE

Do you need to complete a tax return?

The High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) was introduced as from 7 January 2013 for parents on higher incomes who continue to receive child benefit (CB) payments.

Whether you are in agreement or not, HMRC has been asked to administer the collection of the HICBC and in doing so, has put thousands more people into self assessment (SA). Parents on higher incomes who have continued to receive CB will need to ensure that they register for SA by no later than 5 October 2014 (in regard to CB payments received during the year ended 5 April 2014 – if there are unresolved issues for 2012/13, immediate action is necessary) to avoid any penalties for ‘failure to notify chargeability to tax’. Therein lies the problem – have people been adequately informed of their responsibilities to approach HMRC and register for SA? Will penalties be imposed on those individuals with no interest in the tax system or will people just ‘get away with it’? More interestingly, are HMRC easily able to identify the individuals concerned?

Another fundamental issue which has caused debate is HMRC’s approach to prompt individuals with “income over £50,000” to register for SA, yet it is an individual’s “adjusted net income” which is taken into account when determining whether the HICBC applies (for example, where personal pension contributions reduce adjusted net income below the £50,000 income threshold).

For new claimants, if you are affected by the HICBC you can opt not to get CB payments, but you should ensure that you complete the CB claim form, as this will provide you with national insurance credits which count towards your state pension. For those already receiving CB, you can either ‘opt out’ or ‘pay the HICBC tax charge’.

In summary, the HICBC applies to CB payments received from 7 January 2013. Those who have applied to stop receiving CB before 7 January 2013 are not required to take any action. As per HMRC guidance, a person is liable to pay the CB tax charge if all of the following conditions apply: their income is over £50,000 a year, and either they or their partner received child benefit payments after 7 January 2013, and their income for the tax year is higher than their partners. The partner with the higher income is liable to pay the charge if both partners have income over £50,000

If you wish to discuss the issues raised in this article, please feel free to contact Simon at simon.boxall@wardwilliams.co.uk 58

59

Furnishing Finesse Is your living room looking more drab than fab? Then it’s time for an image overhaul. One or two new items of furniture, some revamps or repairs, or simply a different layout, can make all the difference, says Katherine Sorrell.

Where to start

  

Firstly, take a long, hard look at what you already have. Most of us own a collection of family heirlooms and hand-me-downs, high-street buys, chain-store pieces and perhaps the odd junk-shop find. Step one is to work out what you want to keep and what should be dispensed with and what could be revamped.

Then, assess your overall style – old or new, shabby chic or pristine, rustic or sophisticated, plain and slender or heavy and ornate? The key to mixing old and new is to ensure the overall look has coherence. Materials, scale and decorative style are all important, as are colour and texture. If things aren’t quite working, perhaps you can shift something that stands out to another room, or sell it on.

What’s your style?

• Antique Key styles are Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian. Genuine Georgian pieces are expensive but beautiful, and mix surprisingly well with modern furniture.

Victorian furniture tends to be heavier and on a larger-scale, while Edwardian pieces are a little plainer and lighter.

• Retro Furnishings from the Fifties, Sixties and Seventies in bright colours and unusual materials such as plastic or 60

wire, they’re tricky to mix with other furnishings but make an eye-catching focal point.

• Design classics Covetable chairs and other pieces by mid-20th century names such as Eames, Breuer, Le Corbusier, Aalto, Wegner, Day and Race. Originals are pricey; some reproductions are available.

• Country Anonymous, functional wooden pieces, generally from the UK or France (the latter is more decorative). New or old, these pieces are useful, pretty and tend to work well with most other furnishings.

Designing a living room layout

Draw a plan (overhead view) of the room using graph paper, marking the positions of windows, door, fireplace, radiators, sockets and any fitted furniture. If using paper, cut out paper shapes, at the correct scale, to represent the proposed furnishings. Do they work as a whole, or can they be moved to create more floor space? Are there any ‘dead’ or crowded areas?

Choosing and arranging living room furniture

It was once traditional for living rooms to be arranged with the fire as a focal point. These days it’s more likely to be the TV, but

you can also have subsidiary focal points, such as a work of art or a view. Placing two sofas so they face each other is both comfortable and practical.

Modular seating units in an Lshape (or even a U-shape) are a great alternative. In a small room, stools can double as mini-tables and be pushed out of the way when not in use.

A coffee table takes up a lot of floor space but side tables are another option, as is a long, thin console table pushed against the back of the sofa.

The living room also needs the right furniture in which to keep things such as DVDs, books and cables out of sight, as well as display areas for attractive possessions. Choose plain, inexpensive bookcases that can be painted the same colour as your walls, or go for a designer option such as a sleek sideboard or modular units or even Oriental and Indian-style pieces, in beautiful woods and with lovely detailing. Finally, add boxes and baskets to disguise awkward items that simply won’t fit anywhere else.

Sometimes you just want to stretch your legs out and lounge. A side table is at hand for a drink or a book. Crumpet Chaise with solid beech frame and feather-filled back cushions, £1895; Little Loafian side table in reclaimed fir, £195; both Loaf, 0845 468 0698; www.loaf.com.

  

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  A family-run school with a caring atmosphere. Pupils achieve excellent results in academic Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX Independent School for boys and girls aged 3 - 11

subjects, music, sport and drama.

Please telephone 01895 234371 to make an appointment

An ‘OUTSTANDING’ School Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 9JX - www.sthelenscollege.com

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DENHAM What's On... (May14)_Layout 1 18/04/2014 16:04 Page 1

regular events... events at Harefield Community Centre, Priory avenue, uB9 6aP Ladies Singing For Fun, 1st Wednesday in the month 1-2.30pm. Zumba every Tuesday evening from 6.15-7.15pm.

Mixed abilities. A fun & lively class. No need to book in advance, call Jean: 01895 823496 or Gwen: 01895 822320

Denham History society Meets most months. 2nd Tuesday of the month, 7.30pm St. Marks Hall, Denham Green. Call Pam on 01895 833989 or e: Pamela@craftygiraffe.co.uk Flower arranging Classes Held 1st Tuesday of every month at St Marks Hall, 7-9pm. Learn flower arranging. Fully qualified tutor. Call Nicky 01895 834210 or 07944 458147 email flowersbyrands@aol.com

Ickenham, UB10 8AB. Call Rosemary 01628 776838 before coming. www.thefitnessleague.com Fitness Yoga Improve flexibility, strength and balance.

Monday 6-7pm at Denham Village Memorial Hall. Call Sandra 07867470240 Lisa 07533549072 E: lisa.sandra.fitness@gmail.com

  

rock ‘n’ roll Monday's in Harefield!

Learn to Dance 1950's Rock n Roll Jive!

Every Monday. Absolute Beginners Jive class 7.30-8.30pm. Slow practise session 8.30-9pm. Social Rock n Roll 9-11pm. No partner required - no experience necessary! Harefield Cricket Club, Breakspear Road North, Harefield, UB9 6NE. 7.30-11pm £5 entry. E: the rockingrebels@gmail.com, 07951 652083 www.facebook.com/therockingrebels

1950s rock n roll with DJs the rocking rebels 1st Friday of every month 7.3011.30pm. Retro stalls, BYO drinks.

St Marys Church Hall, High St, Harefield UB9 6BX. Contact 07951 652083 therockingrebel@gmail.com www.facebook.com/therockingrebels

HoBBies... art Classes Drawing, pastels, oil & watercolour at New Denham Community Centre Autumn, Spring & Winter Terms Tue 1-3.30pm, Wed 12.45-3.15pm and 7.30-9.30pm. Call 0208 894 9577 art smart Weekly Art Classes at Denham Village Hall. Drawing and Painting for beginn-ers and Improvers Thursdays 1.30-3.30pm.

Tutor Roz Smith call 01494 670372 Chinese Brush Painting group Come and join our friendly group meeting on Saturday mornings. The class is guided by an experienced tutor so no experience required! You will learn how to compose and develop your own painting style as well as practicing the finer points of Chinese calligraphy often seen on paintings. Find us at Harefield Library, Park Lane Village Centre, Harefield or contact Phyllis Nash on 01895 476 644 / phyllnash@gmail.com Crosier investment Club Learn more about the Stock Market and to improve personal investment skills.

Meets 7.30pm, third Thursday in month at Pinner Village Hall, Chapel Lane, Pinner, HA5 1AA. Call 0208 427 3559, e: secretary@crosierinvestment.org.uk w: www.crosierinvestment.org.uk

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Hillingdon natural History society Meets 1st wed of the month, Scout HQ, Gatting Way, Uxbridge. enquiries@ hillingdon-naturalhistory society.org.uk inland Waterways associations Meet 2nd Tues of every month at Hillingdon Canal Club, Waterloo Road, Uxbridge, UB8 2QX, 7.30pm. middlesex.social@waterways.org.uk

keeP-Fit, DanCe & DraMa... aerobics Denham Village Memorial Hall. Every Mon and Wed 4.30-5.30pm Call Jean Nisbet 01895 832063 Bagot stack (Fitness league) Term Time Only. Vyners School, UB10 8AB, Tue 7.30-8.30pm. Also Mon & Thu in Windsor. Call Rosemary 01628 776838. www.thefitnessleague.com Beginners line Dancing At Higher Denham Community Centre, Off Old Rectory Lane, Higher Denham.

Mon 7-8pm. Also Improvers & Intermediates. Tel: Ann 01753 882847 Boot Camp Fun and friendly exercise class held at a private location in Gerrards Cross.

Every Mon, Tues, Fri 9.15-10am.

Qualified Personal Trainer and Level 3 Contact Julie on 07769 311789 or visit: www.juliegxfit.com Bootcamp Circuit for adults (Mixed) Wednesdays, 7-8.15pm Denham Village Memorial Hall. Tel: Jayne 07968 361965 Dance, gymnastics and Free running Classes

By Futunity Uk in Uxbridge Town Centre & Hillingdon Sports & Leisure centre.

Ages 2-adults catered for and all styles of dance from RAD ballet to Zumba. Full class listings at www.futunityuk.com.

Call 01895 251224 or email admin@futunityuk.com Fitness league Tone & stretch exercises for the whole body, with fun dance routines to music for women of all fitness levels. Tue 7.308.30pm at Vyners School, Warren Road,

Fitsteps Cha Cha, Waltz, Quickstep or Jive at Denham Memorial Hall. Mondays 7pm and Wednesdays 10am. Call 07834 197745. info@limelightdancing.co.uk

general Yoga Class Higher Denham Community Hall, Lower Road, Higher Denham, UB9 5EA. Wed 7.30-9pm. Thu 9.45-11.15am with BWY certified teacher tel: 01895 820267 Harefield amateur Drama society Tuesday, 8-10pm. Park Lane Village Centre, Park Lane, Harefield.

Call Tony on 01895 820672

Jazzercise Classes New Denham Community Centre Mon 9.30-10.30am, Tues 6.45-7.45pm.

Wed & Fri 10-11am Denham Village Memorial Hall Village Rd, Denham, Bucks Thurs 6.30-7.30pm Wendy Whitefoord, Tel: 07803 602142 e: wendy.whitefoord@btinternet.com www.jazzercise.com ladies only kickboxing Club Wed 6.30-8.00pm, Watts Hall, Redford Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1SZ. First Class FREE! Call Leanne Phillips on 07518 848285 e:leanne@kickboxinglondon. co.uk. www.kickboxing-london.co.uk Modern Jive Classes Mon 8-11pm, West Drayton Community Centre and Tue & Thu 8-11pm, Uxbridge Civic Centre. First Night Entry & Free Lifetime membership with this listing.

Contact Alan: 0208 933 4350 or 07860 250961 www.clubceroc.com email: alanandsue@clubceroc.com Pink academy of DanCe Classes held daily at New Denham Community Centre. Range of classes for boys & girls from 2 years to Adults.

Contact: Admin@pinkacademy. co.uk www.pinkacademy.co.uk or call 01895 257553 rockin' 8s square Dancing Modern American style - every Thurs 8.15pm. New Denham & Willowbank Community Centre, Oxford Road, New Denham. UB9 4DW. Call Jean 01895 622859 or paul@stingproductions.com continued overleaf...

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DENHAM What's On... (Jun14)_Layout 1 24/05/2014 07:48 Page 2

keep-fit, dance & drama continued...

SaLSa (all styles) Every Monday at Uxbridge Community Centre, 32b The Greenway, Uxbridge UB8 2PJ from 7.45pm to 10pm. Come and join Mina Queen Salsa for some amazing fun. Call 07958 578962 or email mina@queensalsa.com

Zumba fitness with danielle Every Monday 7-8pm at Harefield Football Club, Breakspear Road North, Harefield. UB9 6NE. Call Danielle 07989 128131 www.zumba-class.co.uk

the Windsor & district Big Bands appreciation Society We meet on 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm, Datchet Hall, Horton Road, Datchet. Meetings featuring the music of the big bands of the 1940s and 1950s Swing era. Two recitals from records, tapes & CDS, along with a raffle and sometimes there's even a live band.

Call Derek Verrier on 01753 654398

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Salsa classes Every Monday: The Middlesex Arms, Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HG. Beginners class starts 8pm.

Improvers/Intermediates: 8.45-9.30pm Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm Every Wednesday: The WatersEdge, Canal Cottages, Packetboat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JS. Beginners class starts 7:30pm.

Improvers/Intermediates: 8.30-9.30pm.

Freestyle dancing/practice time til 11pm Simply Walk Langley & Black parks Every Monday Langley Park, 10am Thursday Black Park, 10am. Second Sunday of month Langley Park at 11am.

See www.friendsoflangleypark.co.uk Social dancing Ballroom Latin & Sequence Harefield Community Centre, Priory Avenue, Harefield. Every Wed, 8pm.

Beginners welcome. Call 01895 634674 Simply Walk in denham First Sunday of every month, everyone welcome! Denham Village Green 10.45am for 11am start. Approximately 90 minute walk, 2.5-3miles. Led by trained volunteers as part of a healthy walk scheme funded by Bucks County Council, local District Councils and Bucks PCT. For details of other walks in the Bucks area call 01494 475367 www.buckscc.gov.uk/rightsofway Social Line dancing At St Marys Church Hall, Harefield Last Sat of the month 7.30-10.30pm tea dance Harefield Community Centre, Priory Ave on Thurs 2-4pm. All welcome. Free car parking. Call John 01895 284428 uxbridge musical theatre Ruislip Conservative Club, 56-58, Ickenham Road, Ruislip, Middlesex HA4 7DQ. Tuesday 8-10pm.

Call Phil Harrison 01895 636367 Email: mail@umtheatre.co.uk or see www.umtheatre.co.uk Zumba fitness Every Wednesday 8-9pm at New Denham Community Hall, Oxford Road, UB9 4DW. Call Martine 07788 563572 www.zumbadolls.co.uk

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Zumba Gold For Older Active Adults. Every Friday 11am at Higher Denham Community Hall, Lower Road, Higher Denham, UB9 5EA. Call Martine 07788 563572 www.zumbadolls.co.uk

Zumba with ruddy Thurs 7-8pm, St Marks Hall Denham Green UB9 5HD and Sats 9.30-10.30am at Harefield Academy Northwood Way UB9 6ET. Call Ruddy 07901 828051

muSic... drumbeatz Drum tuition for beginners in a rehearsal studio in Denham by Melanie Kleyn, qualified HND, now on degree at ACM. Children over 8yrs, ladies, anyone keen to learn. 3.15-5.30pm or daytime. Eves taken by bands rehearsing.

Email: drumsmel@gmail.com or text mobile on 07757 635880 faraday country music club in Slough SL2 1RN. Country Music every Thursday for listeners, western partners, freestyle or line dancers.

From 8-11pm. Contact Deb 07986 050742. www.faradaycountry.co.uk Guitar Lessons Complete beginners welcome. Contact Sam for a FREE lesson 07798 588496 sam@uxbridgeguitarlessons.co.uk music Lessons at Little Halings Studio Piano and French Horn lessons with experienced, friendly young female teacher, Victoria Coghlan. Rehearsal room at Little Halings Studios in Denham. All welcome. Guitar tuition is also available. Call: 07737 493980 (Victoria) E: victocoghlan@gmail.com Stoke poges Singers A friendly four-part choir singing a wide variety of music. New members welcome (no auditions. The ability to read music is not essential. Rehearsals on Thursday at St Andrews Centre, Rogers Lane, Stoke Poges, 7.45pm.

Come along or call Naomi on 07831 217575 or Anthea on 01753 662355 Sing for fun - adults No auditions or previous singing experience necessary. You must just enjoy singing! Higher Denham Community Hall, Wednesday (TT) 2.30-4pm. Call Avril on 07587 175640

Yiewsley & West drayton Band Rehearse every Wednesday and Friday 810pm at St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley.

To join or book the band for an engagement contact Lynne on 07976 824152 or email Lynne@ywdband.com

Yiewsley & West drayton training Band Open to all ages wanting to learn to play a brass instrument or 'brush up' your skills. Every Wed during term time 6.457.45pm, St. Matthew's School, Yiewsley.

Contact Abi on 07985 302 856 or emailtraining@ywdband.com

pre-ScHooL & kidS GroupS...

2370 (denham) Squadron air training corps ATC HQ, Tilehouse Lane, Denham Aerodrome Denham, Bucks, UB9 5DN. Monday and Thursday 7.30-9.30pm.

Currently recruiting 13-17 year old males and females. Call 01895 834522 (Mon & Thu only) 2nd denham Scout Group Scout Hut, The Pyghtle, Denham Green Close, Denham Green Beavers Age 6-8 Thu 5.45-7pm.

Cubs Age 8-10 Wed 6.30-7.45pm Scouts Age 10-15 Friday 7-9pm Tel: Linda Batten 01753 892373 denham & Gerrards cross children’s centre Tilehouse School, Nightingale Way, Denham, UB9 5JL. Free sessions for families with children age 5 and under including Messy Play and Stay & Play sessions. Call 01895 835967. denham Girlguides 1st Denham Rainbows (age 5-7) 4th Denham Brownies (age 7-10) 4th Denham Guides (age 10-14) For more details on meeting times and info on joining visit www.gxanddenham.cfsites.org denham Youth club (ages 8-11 years) Higher Denham Community Hall, Lower Road, Uxbridge UB9 5EA. Wednesday 6.30-8pm.

Call 01895 834313 continued overleaf...

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pre-school & kids groups continued...

Community Centre, Harmondsworth Road, UB7 9JL. Contact Ella: 07702 479 435 or sportsclubuk@gmail.com

people, raise money and have many laughs please contact us! www.langley-iver-rotaract.org.uk

slough sea cadets Parade nights on Monday and Thursday 7.30-9.30pm at Langley Pavillion, Langley Road, Slough, SL3 8BS. Male & Female Junior Cadets (age 10-12 yrs) and Cadets (age 12-18 yrs). Fees £2 per week, courses from £5 for weekend.

Visit us on Facebook, pop-in or email: sloughseacadets@yahoo.co.uk

shotokan karate Sports Hall, Tilehouse Lane, Denham for men, women and children age 8+.

Monday, 7-8pm. Interested? Contact Erin on 01494 758079 or visit www.chilternkarate.co.uk

stoke poges Bridge club meet at St Andrew’s Church Hall in Rogers Lane, SL2 4LN on Monday from 1.30-5.30pm for players who want to improve their game. Call 01753 642 438 www.stokepogesbridgeclub.org.uk

self help & support...

uxbridge conservative club Bingo, Carpet Bowls, Table Tennis, Lunches, Quiz & Race Nights etc. at 46 Harefield Road, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 1PJ. Contact Georgina Baile on 01895 233653 or 07778 348082, e: udcc@btconnect. com or visit www.uxbconclub.com

Youths united Senior Youth Group in Denham, at Martin Bakers Social Club. Ages 12-18 years Wednesday evenings 7-309pm. Tel Joyce Haynes 01895 832643 tiny talk Baby signing classes Tuesday classes at St Mary’s Church Hall, High Street, Harefield UB9 6BX at 10am, price £5.00 pre-paid per family.

Thursday classes at St Giles' Church Hall, 1 High Road, Ickenham UB10 8LE, 10am, 11.15am and 1pm, price £5.00 pre-paid per family Friday classes at The Uxbridge Centre, The Greenway, Uxbridge UB8 2PJ, 10.30am, price £5.00 pre-paid per family. Call Bev Meier 01895 824935 or 0781 8025993 tiny toes childcare Full Day Care Nursery.

Call Susan 01753 655650 or email: tinytoes@ivercommunity.org for details tweenies Baby and toddlers St Marys Church, Denham Village Tuesday 9.30-11.30am Activities for families with children Children aged 0-5 years offered at The Denham and Gerrards Cross Children’s Centre, Nightingale Way, Denham, Bucks. UB9 5JL. Call 01895 835967

self defence... karate club of denham For ages 5 years and up at New Denham Community Centre Sundays 9.15-11am Tel: Dominic 07988 743725 karate club of uxbridge For ages 5 years and up The Uxbridge Centre, The Greenway Wednesday between 5pm & 7pm Tel: Dominic 07988 743725 kung fu club West drayton Great Kung Fu work out for everybody, attractive trainings for children & adults on: Tuesday 5.30-6.30, Friday 7.308.30, Sunday 5.30-6.30. West Drayton

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hillingdon Brain tumour group Support group held every 2nd Thurs of the month 12.30-2.30pm, Hillingdon Baptist Church, Hercies Rd, Hillingdon, UB10 9LS. Call 01895 637444. slimming World New Denham Community Centre Tuesday, 10-11.30am. To register turn up at 10am, call Mandy 07879 897578

sociAl groups...

Beareavement support group Coffee Morning, 1st Tues of the Month, St Marks Hall, Greentiles Lane, Denham Green, UB9 5HT. Please call Nicky at Dale & Sons for details 01895 832220 or 07510 156380 denham green W.i.

Every 2nd Mon in the month 2-4.15pm, St Marks Hall, Denham.

All ladies welcome.

Contact Linda 01895 257895 or linda. allum@hotmail.co.uk; or Laura 01895835868 or ljphillips22@me.com. denham lions 1st and 3rd Monday of the month, 8pm at Denham Garden Village, Denham Green. 18 years+ enjoy social events, fundraising projects in the area.

E: info@denhamlions.org.uk denham Wives group Last Tuesday of each month at St. Mark’s Hall Denham Green 7.15pm.

Contact Ann Collins 01895 833820 or acollins683@uwclub.net

Women’s social group Social group for women. Looking to expand your social group and make new friends? We meet regularly for coffee, a chat - open women of all ages.

Please call Seema on 07730 898635 or email seema@seema.co.uk

sport... denham Bowls club Denham Way, Denham, UB9 5AX Lawn Bowling. Coaching available.

Call Brian Simpson (Sec) on 01895 834007 or Jenny Johns on 01895 833845 denham cricket club New playing or social members welcome. Way & Tillard Memorial Cricket Ground, off Cheapside Lane, Denham Village. Tel: Bill Nicholas 01895 834527 pink ladies netball club All levels and abilities welcome.

Training takes place at Stockley Academy, West Drayton every Tuesday.

Senior training 16+yrs 7.30-9pm Back to Netball 16+yrs 7.30- 8.30pm Under 16s for details 01895 448878 email: plnetball@hotmail.co.uk visit www.pinkladiesnetball.co.uk

friendly Whist drive Harefield Community Centre, Priory Avenue, Harefield. Every Thurs 7.30pm.

Beginners welcome. Contact Lyn on 01923 820173

table tennis Denham Village Memorial Hall Tuesdays 5.30-10pm. Call Richard Cottle on 01895 835292

rotaract club of langley & iver Meet at 8pm every 2nd & 4th Tues of the month, the Red Lion Pub, Langley, SL3 7EN. A group of 18-30's that raise money for charity, help in the community and also have a busy social calendar. If you would like to meet new

uxbridge squash club All squash players welcome.

Uxbridge Cricket Club, Park Road, Uxbridge.

See uxbridgesquash.org.uk or email: squash@uxbridgesquash.org.uk Tel: 01895 237571

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Harefield Village Café has been built on a reputation for excellent food, friendly service and first class hygiene and cleanliness. We are a modern busy café, conveniently located on the high street of Harefield Village.

We serve great value set breakfasts all day, lunches and homemade dinners. We also have a variety of kids meals, perfect for the whole family in a friendly warm atmosphere. We can also cater for large orders, parties and special occasions.

All our meals are freshly cooked to order using the freshest and finest ingredients.

Mon - Sat: 6:30 - 18:00 Sun & B.Hols: 8:00 - 17:00

Village Café 5 High Street Harefield UB9 6BX

Only

£2.95

Visit our website to view our full menu: www.harefieldvillagecafe.co.uk 71

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