LivingLife - Issue 15 (Shefford)

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Issue 15

February 2020

Inside

y a D s e in t n e l a V y p p Ha Friday 14th February

Also inside

Diddy Directory Room 101 What’s On Guide

A FAIR MOT TEST FOR A FAIR PRICE WWW.THEGARAGESHEFFORD.CO.UK E: INFO@THEGARAGESHEFFORD.CO.UK

T: 01462 414820

A: 2B ST FRANCIS WAY, SHEFFORD, SG17 5DZ (NEXT TO MORRISONS)

The Garage Shefford is a small friendly and family run company. Our team has over 40 years experience in the motor trade and provides an honest, reliable and cost effective service, which is approved by both the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI) and Trust My Garage. We believe in providing a fair MOT test for a fair price.

MOT Testing - £35

Including classes 4 • 5L • 7 (Cars, vans, minibuses, motorhomes, and goods vehicles up to 3500kg)

A/C RECHARGE

SERVICING & REPAIRS

COMPUTER DIAGNOSTIC

DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FOR: •

SERVICES: add an MOT to your Interim, Annual, or Major Service to save

•

UNIFORMED SERVICES: 10% discount when you show your ID

•

SENIOR CITIZENS: automatically qualify for 10% off

The Garage Shefford reserves the right to revoke or rescind these offers at any point, without notice.

Identification may be required for Uniformed Services (professional ID or Blue Light Card) or Seniors discounts.

PROUD TO BE APPROVED BY...

Can you FIND the golden ticket?

Keep a keen eye out in this magazine for this month’s Golden Ticket. If you find it simply give us a call and quote the 5 digit code on the ticket to claim the prize.

Roll over

Current prize

£50

Monthly prize of £25! If this it is not claimed, then the prize money will roll over to the following month!

Winners agree to being published in LivingLife Magazine.

The editor’s decision is final

Get in touch with us: We would love your feedback on what you enjoyed about this edition, and of course, any areas where we could improve.

01462 414265

admin@livinglifemagazine.co.uk

NOTE FROM THE EDITOrS Welcome to the latest edition of LivingLife magazine. Can you believe we have already reached the month of February? How time flies, but the good news is that Spring is on its way. We are very excited about the year ahead with lots of new features and interactive events on the way, and some interesting community fund-raising projects planned. Watch this space!

During February keep a look out for John and his Big Love Heart! It’s Valentine’s Day on Friday 14th Feb and he’ll be busy snapping away with his camera as he visits local shops and businesses. In our March edition we will have a special Valentines photo montage, so don’t be shy for the camera!

| Andrew Martin |

We are also happy to inform you that John has joined the local Street Watch group in Shefford. John is constantly out and about in the local area, so it made perfect sense for him to volunteer and help keep your community safe.

There are some fantastic | John McBurney | features and articles in this month’s magazine including the return of the hilarious Room 101 with Chris Doyle offering to elaborate on his most annoying dislikes.

DISCLAIMER

The opinions expressed in LivingLife magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editors, publisher or their agents. Whilst every reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information included within this publication, the publishers take no responsibility for any errors or omissions in LivingLife Magazine. The content is not to be reproduced in any form without permission of the publisher.

Last month no one found the Golden Ticket (Boo!), which means that it’s now a rollover and £50 is up for grabs! (Hooray!) Keep your eyes peeled and make sure you have a good look through the magazine, there could be a Golden Ticket inside?

Kind Regards, Andrew & John

Please pass to a friend, recyle or compost after reading.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

bunraku puppetry chiltern scale model club trugs and trowels light up clifton soundarc’s interview with... artisans in the yard shefford firework appeal room 101 luna animal rescue delivery boys’ review diddy directory scene by you kid’s got talent February crossword what’s on guide ed r ur se at rti Fe ve ad

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6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 21 22 25 26 28 30 32

A big welcome to our new advertisers this month......

The Spice Lounge jon boys guitar tuition helen moakes podiatry This publication wouldn’t be possible without the support of our advertisers. Please ensure you mention us when you contact them.

We still have a few spaces left. If you have a business in the area, feel free to get in touch

Competition Winner

december

a big well done to:

Gillies Baverstock who found Billy the Squirrel and WON £50 4

Advertising deadline for March- 10th Feb- visit www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk

BASED IN

ARLESEY Spaces limited

GROUP CLASS

GUITAR LESSONS Tuesdays 7–8pm

All abilities welcome, £15pp

(Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult)

To book your place, contact Jon:

07976 281911

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5

arts

Contribution thanks to

Bunraku Puppetry The art of Japanese puppet theatre

H

Philip Bowen The Puppet Workshop www.thepuppetworkshop.co.uk FB @ThePuppetWorkshopLtd

ave you ever wondered why puppets are so fascinating? Have you ever enjoyed a stage show starring puppets and found yourself able to suspend your disbelief and enjoy the show even though… they’re for children, right? Puppetry is an ancient art form – puppets have even been found in ancient Egyptian tombs! Whatever the fascination they hold over us, puppetry has experienced a modern revival and seems to feature in more new shows than ever.

Whatever the reason for its appeal to audiences, puppeteers use a variety of different forms of puppetry depending upon the story and the message being transmitted.

These include hand puppets, shadow puppets, rod puppets and marionettes. A developed form of rod and hand puppet called Bunraku has become very popular in recent years being used in such productions as Warhorse and The Lion King. What is Bunraku and how has it achieved such popularity?

In Japan, Bunraku means traditional puppetry where up to three puppeteers, dressed in black, are on stage operating the puppets in full view of the audience. Because the puppeteers become part of the show, western productions which use large puppets are called Bunraku.

Because ambitious theatre productions such as Warhorse would be impossible without puppets, a modern revival has taken place with several puppet companies being called upon to bring animals and fantastic creatures to life. It isn’t just adult shows which use them, The Very Hungry Caterpillar was recently brought to life with large puppets for younger audiences.

Children in particular enjoy watching puppet shows and enjoy starring in them too. They love the fact that with Bunraku puppetry, they get to be part of the show and demonstrate their skills to the audience! There are very few opportunities for children to get involved in drama courses which use puppets but if you find one, they provide great opportunities for children to gain confidence through performing and expressing themselves through this unique, ancient artform.

For more details on creative puppet workshops for children please see the website.

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arts

Contribution thanks to

The Chiltern Scale Model Club Model making should be about fun and enjoyment

David Burlison

Chiltern Scale Model Club davidburlison@hotmail.co.uk FB @ChilternScaleModelClub

T

he Chiltern Scale Model Club (CSMC) are a diverse and welcoming group who like to build models of all scales from aircraft, armour, cars and trucks; to ships, figures and sci-fi. Our club caters for modellers of all abilities, from absolute beginners and those returning to the hobby, through to improvers and skilled modellers. We don’t take ourselves too seriously and we believe that model making should be about fun and enjoyment!

Our club is well established and can trace its roots back over 50 years. We are a branch of both the International Plastic Modellers’ Society (IPMS) and of the Miniature Armoured Fighting Vehicle Association (MAFVA).

We meet every month, and a typical club meeting will include members bringing along completed or ‘in-progress’ models, with lots of chat, advice and friendly banter. Every other month, we hold a themed competition where (if they want to) members can bring a completed model to be voted on.

We also have club members demonstrating model making skills & techniques such as diorama building, airbrushing and figure painting.

Outside of our club meetings we also arrange a variety of social events, including trips to local museums, model shows and meals.

We arrange the largest model show in our area, which is the Chiltern Scale Model Show, held in Biggleswade on 13th September. Over 25 different model clubs from around the country will be attending, plus over a dozen traders selling everything from new and second-hand kits to paints, tools and bases. In addition, our popular tombola of new and used model kits raises several hundred pounds (our chosen charity in 2019 was Help for Heroes), and we hold a free model-making session to introduce children to the hobby.

The club also participate in a number of other model shows in the South East and at the annual Scale Model World Show in Telford. The next show which will be attending is at the Shuttleworth Collection on the 16th February.

We meet on the first Wednesday of each month at the STMA Sports and Social Club, Digswell Park, Shefford (SG17 5JA) from 8-10pm. It is a friendly venue with plenty of free parking and bar facilities. Why not come along to our next club night to say ‘Hi’ and see what we do? For further details please contact: David Burlison on the email above.

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Equestrian

Pet & Wildlife

Groundcare

Smallholding

Sandy Lane, Chicksands, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5QB.

01462 810190 | www. chandlersfe.co.uk

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community

‘Trugs & Trowels’ Gardening club A garden – the friend who always welcomes you

Contribution thanks to

Maryika Wilding ‘Trugs & Trowels’ Gardening Club maryikawilding@talktalk.net

I

n my 23 years in Campton I have been involved with many village groups. In 2015 I decided to set up a group which I have a great passion for: a gardening club. In June 2020 Trugs & Trowels Gardening Club celebrates its 5th anniversary. The club, which is attended by many like-minded people, of all ages, both men and women, meets on the first Monday of every month in Campton Village Hall.

We have had a great variety of guest speakers over the years talking on a topics ranging from garden design, how to add ‘wow factor’ to your winter garden, garden wildlife, pruning and water features, to name but a few. We have had alternative speakers talking about the physical and mental health benefits of gardening. We also try to encourage local speakers as our gardens’ successes are dependent on the growing conditions of this area. 2020 is no exception as we already have speakers lined-up from the Shuttleworth Swiss Gardens, Wrest Park and the Old Warden Vineyard, who will bring with them their local knowledge and expertise.

As well as speakers we have a lot of fun with activities including competitions, day trips, competitive vegetable growing, birdfeeder design, quizzes, ‘Christmas on a budget’ arrangements and pumpkin carving. We have a gardening book library and a ‘free and swap’ table where our members bring plants and gardening items to donate and share with each other. We make visits to gardens of stately homes as well as hosting our own open gardens in Campton, in July every year – this annual celebration is always well attended and shows everyone’s different approach to gardening, with beautiful outcomes.

We look forward to welcoming new members in 2020. The next meeting is on Monday 3rd February at 7:30pm in Campton Village Hall, Gravenhurst Rd. Meetings are on the first Monday of the month (except for Bank Holidays).

Attendance is £3 per meeting for non-members or members pay a single £24 annual fee – refreshments are provided.

For more information, please contact Maryika Wilding above. Happy gardening!

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community

Light-Up Clifton Event

A message from the Clifton Resident’s Association

Contribution thanks to

Diana Talbot

Chairperson CRA

01462 812336

C

hristmas may seem a long time ago now, but the Clifton Residents’ Association would like to thank everyone who helped to make the Light Up Clifton event a success. To those who gave raffle prizes, those who gave their time and expertise, and especially to everyone who came to see the lighting of the Christmas tree, listen to the music and enjoy the children singing, we would like to say a huge THANK YOU! The event raised £1108 which will be used to support village organisations and making next year’s Light Up Clifton even better.

The Clifton Residents’ Association exists for the benefit of all residents in the village and we are always on the lookout for new members. If you think you might be interested in joining us and getting more involved in the village, please get in touch with Bob Smith (secretary) on 01462 812336. All best wishes for 2020

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’s C R A d n Sou w e i v r e t in with.....

Eyes of Albion. “We are stranger than fiction, more intense than realism and just as the universe cannot be imagined, neither can we. We are, just that; WE ARE!” Well there’s blues rock in there definitely, add a little Indian sounding twists to the mix with modal guitar and bass work, perhaps a hint of folk rock on occasions.

Power it with rhythm section which works from the very first beat, bass and guitar melodically complimenting the amazingly powerful vocals and you have a rough idea of what Eyes of Albion do and are.

1. How Did You Meet?

The Eyes of Albion formed when guitarist and sound engineer Robert Kemp met bass man Johnny Muzz in the studio, the two just clicked. In came a singer that Johnny had heard about and, “When Davy started singing, Robert and I just looked at each other”, Johnny explained, “It was like it was always meant to be”. Drummer Andy Mullins found his way to the rehearsal studio and the band was complete. The project, that Robert had dreamed of, was ready to go to work.

2. What Does Your Band Name Mean?

Eyes of Albion means, drawing on sounds and musical vibrations from within and beyond our homeland shores.

3. Your Biggest Influences?

There’s so many, from Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Hawkwind, Ravi Shankar, Floyd to name a few.

6. What do you prefer, Gigging or Recording?

We love gigging and playing in front of an audience, everybody having a great time and forgetting their troubles for just a short while, but we also love recording time; creating a piece of music is a great feeling, basically they both go hand in hand I think 7. Favourite song of yours to play live?

Experiment No. 5.1 8. If you could play in any other band, who would it be?

The Incredible String Band, it would be so much fun.

9. The Beatles or Rolling Stones?

Beatles.

10. Bacon sandwich - Red or Brown sauce?

Both! We like to mix it up!

4. In order of band members, who’d come first/last in a 100m sprint?

I think we would all either be disqualified for cheating or fall lame requiring oxygen 5. What do you enjoy most about being a musician?

Just about everything. We would need a full interview just to cover that question. LOL

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Connect via their facebook page @EyesOfAlbion

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Do I need a Physiotherapist?

Physiotherapy helps to regain function and movement when someone is affected by illness, disability or injury. If you are finding it difficult to carry out activities which you would routinely do or are finding it harder to move, then Physiotherapy may be able to help.

What’s involved?

In order to help treat your symptoms, I take details of your medical history and carry out an assessment of your movement and function. This involves testing your strength and ranges of movement at your joints. Depending on your diagnosis, other aspects of your physical ability would be assessed such as the amount of sensation you have and testing your balance.

Types of conditions treated Physiotherapists can specialise in different areas. If you have a condition which is affecting your central nervous system (brain and or spinal cord) or if you are finding it harder to walk or move around, then there may be ways in which I can help your symptoms.

Contact number:

Email:

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15

local art

AN IMPRESSIVE YEAR!

Contribution thanks to

Marje Fitt

and collective Artisans

www.ArtisansInTheYard.com FB@Artisansintheyard

From small beginnings just a year ago, Artisans in the Yard has grown into a prime Shefford destination for unique individually handmade products, local art, distinctive jewellery, and our Projects in Wood venture.

Founder Adrian Goulding says of our success: “We can be proud of the year’s achievements, it has gone really well!”.

The gallery has attracted a growing number of enthusiastic and loyal customers, and opens its doors in 2020 to more of the same, but different! In addition to new art from local artists, manager Erika is introducing fabric items and new ceramics alongside our regular offerings of sculpture from Jim Francis, turned wood by Henry Seebohm, and Trish Sheath pyrography.

The handmade soy candles from Tiger & Co are definitely not to be missed either!

Do visit us at the gallery.

We’re open every Friday & Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

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community

SHEFFORD FIREWORKS APPEAL

Contribution thanks to

Marcus Birleson Shefford Fireworks Committee info@sheffordfireworksappeal.co.uk

A wonderful display but dismal weather

A

big thank you for to everyone who attended the firework display last year on the 2nd November. The display was excellent and as in previous years it was well received from everyone there.

Unfortunately, it was not the best of weather on that day and the attendance to the event was down by a significant amount which reduced the gate takings by more than 50% compared to previous years.

We have donated money to a couple of local good causes but not as many or sums we have previously.

We believe that from the funds we have and the generous donations from local business that this year’s display can go ahead, but without your support in attending the display we may not be able to continue into future years.

This year the Fireworks Display will be on Saturday November 7th. We will be starting earlier than in previous years with the gates opening at 5.00 pm and the display starting at 6.00pm. We hope that the new times appeal to more residents and that you will make the effort to support this event even if the weather is not so fine.

Over the 26 years that we have been organising the display we have donated over ÂŁ20,000 to local good causes in and around Shefford. We really hope to be able to continue to support the hard work that so many other organisations do for the community.

Thank you for your support again and we look forward to seeing you on the 7th November this year.

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ROOM

101

Chris Doyle,

from Shefford, is a retired commercial insurance broker enjoying motorcycle freedom.

We caught up with Chris to find out what he would put into Room 101.

Speed Bumps / pads / tables

In this technological and digital age why are we not simply using average speed cameras in areas of concern? Vehicles would quietly travel at a steady rate, perhaps using the cruise control, on a minimum throttle. Whereas the elevated monstrosities encourage sharp braking just before (brake dust), damage the tyres (where the “shoulders” have been disintegrated by HGV’s causing chops into the inside tyre walls) and subsequent acceleration to get back up to speed (resulting in increased pollution and noise). Then there are those who brake heavily and early in preparation for said traffic calming measure – so causing concertina braking at an increased rate by the vehicles behind them who are not expecting a potential accident brought on by the flat capped dodderer in front.

Negativity

Having moved to Shefford some 18 months ago, we are finding that Shefford is proving to be the town that we expected and hoped for with its friendliness, obvious caring, politeness and a few quirky people - all to the good. Our only disappointments relate to Facebook sites dedicated to the town and its environs in which there are some who hide and relish in negative sarcasm to some excellent positive posts. Such a shame and in the minority fortunately.

Unsolicited calls

There is enough good advice to not buy goods or services from an unrequested approach. So why do they persist? I actually feel sorry for those for whom this is their job – with targets and a script to work to. Not that it makes any difference as I deem them to be rude in their persistence when a “no thank you” is not sufficient for the call to end and I’m left with the feeling that it is actually me who is rude – when I put the phone down, Not a good feeling.

Now it’s your turn!

Do you want to banish your top peeve or worst nightmare to the depths of Room 101?

Submit your top 3 at: www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk/room101 20

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COMMUNITY

Contribution thanks to

Natalie Howe

Luna Animal Rescue

Luna Animal Rescue

Rescuing animals without homes

07970 800530

www.lunaanimalrescue.org

A

s we finish 2019 and move into 2020 Luna Animal Rescue reflect on a very positive year. We have embarked on a new challenge in 2019, taking over Larch Farm at Etonbury. We have already made lots of positive changes, including fencing the area, taking in more animals that previously we would have had to turn down, and building new aviaries and outbuildings for the animals.

In 2020 we look forward to being able to open the farm to the community as a cheap, local resource which families will be able to access to encourage children, elderly and vulnerable groups of people to get outside with the animals.

We are also hoping to start work to encourage wildlife development around the perimeter of the farm, working with conservationists and wildlife rescue to do this.

We are always looking to recruit fosterers and fundraisers to help us, have a look at our website or look us up on Facebook and come and join us.

We will start to take on more volunteers in 2020 to help with projects and ongoing farm works as well as domestic pets, something we are really looking forward to.

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21

food & drink

DELIVERY BOYS’ REVIEW We check out the local restaurants & eateries

.

with.

by John McBurney & Andrew Martin dishes. Our orders were soon taken and whilst we waited we quenched our thirst.

Soon enough our starters arrived. Andrew devoured his Kebab Taste, succulent chicken pieces tossed in a wok with mouth-watering sauce and spices. John opted for the Salmon Tikka, big chunks of fish in a delicious marinade. Still room for a main course? You bet yer!

The Spice Lounge in Langford officially opened its doors for business on 7th July 2019 and by all accounts there was an eager crowd of people queuing outside to get in. If customers are that keen to eat there then it is a definitely a destination for the delivery boys.

We arrived at the restaurant on Friday evening at around 5.30pm with typical huge appetites after a long day of delivery. There is a nice big car park available for customers so there’s no hassle trying to find a parking space. We entered through the main door and received a friendly welcome from the staff.

The restaurant was already fairly busy and we were seated at a nicely laid table, with stylish, vivid coloured chairs. The decor inside is clean and fresh, contemporary in style, with subtle colourful lighting creating a warm and relaxed, almost exotic atmosphere.

We soon had menus at hand and shortly after popadoms and a delightful looking pickle tray arrived. The secret here is to avoid ordering too many popadoms, it’s vital to keep space for mains. The pickles were lovely, we particularly enjoyed the red onion salad.

With the popadoms demolished, it was now time to peruse the menu, which offered a comprehensive choice of familiar, traditional dishes, a range of tandoori, Biryani and Seafood dishes, but also a good selection of Speciality 22

Whilst we waited we chatted to Ali, the owner, who told us that he has been overwhelmed by how well the launch of the restaurant has gone and very happy that the new venture has received such a warm reception from local people in Langford and surrounding area. He explained that the restaurant used to be a pub called The Wrestlers, but like so many village pubs it closed down in 2018, however, the building was designated as an ‘Asset of Community Value’ and it is great to see that

This Month’s Review The Spice Lounge 126 Church St, Langford, SG18 9NX

01462 700500

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this continues with the Spice Lounge providing friends about, actually, it’s a place you will a place for local people to dine and socialise. want to meet-up with your friends to enjoy delicious food that comes with fantastic serWith the arrival of our main course, we turned vice from friendly, tentative staff and manageour attention to food. Andrew ordered Tandoori ment. We simply can’t wait to return!

Chicken Shashlick, served on a hot, sizzling skillet with pilau rice and Chana Massala (chickpeas). Amazingly tender, tasty chicken, with big chunky onion. Definitely no complaints there. John ordered the Spice Lounge Mixed Massala with mushroom rice and chilli naan. It contained chicken, lamb and king prawn cooked to perfection in a lovely sauce with yummy hints of coconut. We were both very satisfied.

The restaurant is open 7 days a week and on Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday it is the very popular Banquet Night, where diners can choose a starter, a main, a side dish, and a rice or naan bread for just £11.95 per person. Banquet nights are busy and it is advisable to phone up and book in advance.

So, what’s our verdict on the Spice Lounge?

Well, it’s a place you will want to tell your

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23

safety

shefford street watch

LivingLife editor joins the team

W

e are very happy to inform our readers that John McBurney, our community editor, has joined ‘Street Watch’ as a volunteer. John recently met up with Juliet Wright from Bedfordshire Police to undergo his induction training. He also went on his first patrol with members of the Arlesey Street Watch team to learn how patrols take place and are carried out. He will be doing a patrol in Shefford in the very near future.

John said, “I’m really looking forward to going out on patrol.

Street Watch is fantastic for the local community. Patrols are generally carried out in areas where crime has been reported or where there are instances of anti-social behaviour, so it’s a great way to reassure residents, especially the elderly”.

John attends his first Street Watch meeting at the Vicar’s Inn, Arlesey

He also attended a ‘planning and social’ meeting at the Vicar’s Inn in Arlesey, where the team made their plans for 2020, including upcoming patrols and discussing ways to promote Street Watch and hopefully recruit new members.

If you see any of the Street Watch team out on a patrol then do stop for a chat as they are a friendly bunch and if you’d like to join Shefford Street Watch please contact WatchSchemes@Bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

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The

Diddy

Directory

the guide to local trades & businesses cost effective, contract free advertising

Book your advert today - visit www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk/diddy

ÂŁ20 ÂŁ30 1 Area

2 Areas

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SCENE BY YOU Your chance to share your favourite photos

Submit your photo for the next edition www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk/myphotos

1 4

2 5 A big thanks to this month’s submissions

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1

Carrie Walker

2

Kate Harris

3

Donna Pearson

4

Andrew Foster

5

Trudie Squires

Chicksands firing range at sunset Peacock at Rowney Warren Natural Moment Rowney Warren Woods Christmas tree given a home at Polehanger Farm Chicksands at Sunset

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27

Welcome to our monthly feature: ’Kid’s Got Talent’ The place where we showcase the amazing talents of local children.

We hope this will help motivate and inspire other children to discover new sports and hobbies.

Name: EMILY & SOPHIE BARROW

age: 10 & 7 from: clifton Q: Briefly explain your talent?

Various styles of dance.

Emily: I enjoy learning tap, modern and street dance.

Sophie: I enjoy learning ballet, tap and modern.

We both attend a dance school, Dynamic Theatre Dance School in Clifton and have attended dance lessons since the age of three.

Emily

Q: When do you practice, and with who?

We practise in lessons on a weekly basis with Miss Esme and Miss Jade, they make the lessons fun and enjoyable.

Q: What do you love about dancing?

It is fun, energetic and a good form of exercise! We have made new friends through our dance lessons and both love performing.

Emily: From the age of two I use to love dancing around the living room to Katy Perry’s ‘Roar’!!

I knew from an early age I wanted to go to dance lessons so my mum took me to Ballet lessons, taking part in my first show at the age of five I saw the older girls dancing tap and modern, I knew then that I wanted to learn this next!

Q: What are your goals/dreams/visions?

Emily: I would one day love to become a professional dancer and take part in Strictly or perform in a London musical.

Sophie: We went to see Mary Poppins over the Christmas holidays; I would love to perform in a musical like this on a big stage and dance!

Q: Do you enter exams or perform in shows and have you ever won any prizes?

Emily: I have completed ISTD exams in Ballet, Tap and Modern achieving Merit grades and I am currently learning grade two in Tap and Modern.

Sophie: I completed my first ISTD exam in Modern dance in July 2018, I achieved a distinction Does your child have an amazing talent? if so, please get in touch at admin@livinglifemagazine.co.uk which I was so pleased with!

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Emily: I have now appeared in three shows, my first when I was five years old, I love wearing the different outfits our teachers choose for us for the different dances and especially the make-up we get to wear!

Sophie: I appeared in my first show last year and really enjoyed performing on the stage in front of an audience.

We also took part in the RAF Family show in Henlow last Summer where we performed a couple of our dance routines, it was great fun on one of the hottest days of the year!

Q: Who is your favourite dancer?

Emily: My favourite dancer is Darcey Bussell, I really enjoy watching her and when she was a judge on strictly.

Sophie: My favourite dancer is AJ Pritchard, I went to watch him in panto over the Christmas holidays, he was great!!

Q: Any advice or tips for anyone wanting to become a dancer?

Join a local dance school, enjoy and have fun!

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Sophie

29

puzzles

The February edition

CROSSWORD Answers on P9

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31

WHAT’S ON GUIDE it’s a date

SPORTS, HEALTH & WELLBEING

What:

Business Focus Meeting

What:

run shefford running club

When:

Wednesday 12th February

When:

Weekly Mon/Thurs

Business Focus Network Meeting, 2nd Weds of each month, 7pm at The Crown pub in Shillington, FREE! Info: FB ‘Business Focus’ or Emma Anthony, 07720 383320

Run Shefford organise two running sessions per week on Monday and Thursday at 7.15pm. Starts at the Shefford STMA

What:

Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves

What:

Get Fit With Tessa

When:

Various Dates/Times (31st Jan - 8th Feb)

When:

Weekly Mon/Thurs

Pantomine by HATS Drama Group at the Meppershall Village Hall, Tickets: £10/£7/£30 (Family) www.ticketsource.co.uk/ hats-drama

food, drink & markets What:

Indoor Picnic Festival

When:

Sunday 5th April

You bring the food, buy the drinks from us and we provide the entertainment. Crafts for kids and brilliant LIVE music.

12-8pm at Shefford STMA. FREE entry for all.

CLUBS, GROUPS AND SOCIETIES

Aerobic Classes, Mondays and Thursdays at 7:30pm at Clifton Community Centre, for further info contact Tessa on 07787 970810 www.getfitwithtessa.com

What:

Henlow Netball Club

When:

Every Tuesday Evening

Netball Training at Henlow Academy 7-8:30pm. Training costs £3.50. We always welcome new players! Contact Julie Hepburn 07766 492037 Juleshep82@yahoo.co.uk

What:

Tai Chi Shefford

When:

Sundays & Mondays

Drop-in classes available for beginners on Mondays at 2.30pm or on Sundays at 6.30pm. Located in Shefford Community Hall.

What:

Over 60s Coffee Club

What:

Boxing for Fitness with L-FIT

When:

Weekly Wednesdays

When:

Wednesday Evenings 8.15pm

What:

Campton Gardening Club (Trugs & Trowels)

What:

Callanetics exercise class

When:

Monday 3rd February

When:

Tuesday Evenings

Shefford WI

What:

Kids Run Free

When:

1st / 3rd Saturday

The club meets up between 9:30-11am. Annual membership is £5. If you want more information about the club, simply contact Sue or John Francis on 01234 381533

Talk by Nic Garner (Freelance Journalist) - ‘Unusual Vegetables’. Meetings start 7.30pm at Campton Village Hall, Gravenhurst Rd, Campton. £3 Entry.

What: When:

3rd Tuesday of the Month

Shefford WI meeting, held on 3rd Tuesday of the month at the Community Hall (next to Lemon Plaice) from 7.30pm.

Info: sheffordwi@gmail.com

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At Henlow Pavilion, 8.15pm. Limited spaces, booking in advance required. For more info get in touch! lauraozholl@ hotmail.com www.l-fit.co.uk

Toned muscles, Better shape, Stronger body!

7pm-8.15pm every Tuesday evening. Henlow Methodist Church (High St, Henlow) Call Cathy 01462 811568

Millennium Green Park, Purcell Way SG17 5RY. Arrive at 8:45 am for warm ups and the running starts at 09:00 am for an hour. Visit www.kidsrunfree.co.uk

Advertising deadline for March- 10th Feb- visit www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk

MUSIC, DANCE & ENTERTAINMENT

family & Children

What:

Rod Stewart Tribute

What:

When:

Saturday 15th February

When:

Charity event at Meppershall Village Hall, tickets £10, contact Helen 07989 914941, proceeds for Children with Autism, doors open 7.30pm

Hartbeeps

Weekly Fridays

8.30am-12.30pm. The most original, musical, baby, toddler and pre-school class on the planet. For info contact Jodi Heaysman 07735 572828. Shefford Community Hall.

What:

Soul Man

What:

Rhyme Time

When:

Saturday 15th February

When:

Thursdays

The Soul Man @ Shefford Sports Club. Open from 7.30pm, £10 Contact: Heather 07504 692273 or sheffordsports@ gmail.com

Bring your little ones along to sing while they learn (term time only). Book your place. Suitable for pre-school children. 10-10:30am and 11-11:30am. Shefford Library

What:

Tine Turner Tribute

What:

When:

Sunday 14th March

When:

Charity event in aid of Breast Cancer at Shefford Sports Club, Tickets £10, contact Helen 07989 914941

Campton School of Dance Weekly

Shefford - Mondays after school - Ballet, Tap and Modern.

Campton – Tues & Weds after school - Ballet, Tap and Modern. Contact: Lynda 07765 964495

What:

80s School Disco

What:

Shefford Majorettes

When:

Saturday 21st March

When:

Tuesdays 6.45pm - 8.30pm (term time only)

Disco, tuck shop and bar. Fancy dress, prize for the best!

18+ only, tickets £10, proceeds to Henlow events. Henlow Park Pavillion, 7.30-11.30pm, www.ticketsource.co.uk

What:

Games Night

When:

Every Tuesday

Feeling competitive? Come along to our fun-filled Games Night every Tuesday at 7pm at The Railway Steamer, Shefford (07825 299787). A different game each week.

What:

Karaoke

When:

1st Saturday of Every Month

The Woolpack Pub in Shefford, Karaoke from 8pm. The 1st Saturday of every month

What:

Quiz Night at The Bridge

When:

Every Wednesday

Time to get your team together and your thinking caps on!

Quiz night, every Wednesday at The Bridge pub in Shefford from 8pm, with rolling jackpot cash prize!

We meet at the STMA Hall in Shefford. All abilities welcome Ages 6-18. Contact Kate on 07906 445222 for more information.

Running a local event?

Promote it here?

Simply submit your event at:

www.livinglifemagazine.co.uk/event *Community & Charity events Free of charge, small donation of £3 for business listings.

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arts

Contribution thanks to

Urban Wildlife Photography

Award winning photographer explains his passion

Daniel Trim

www.danieltrimphotography.co.uk FB & Insta

@DanielTrimPhotography

I

first picked up a camera around the age of 10 and despite a few years of distraction along the way I’m still lost without a camera in my hand. I’m now even more obsessed if I’m honest and spend as much time as I can out taking photos.

My photography started as a way to document what I had seen during birding trips, but it swiftly grew in to more as I started to be increasingly focused on getting an interesting photo rather than seeing a rare species. After a while I was placing more importance on light and composition than the subject (within reason) and I take that same approach today. I much prefer an interesting photo of something common than a dodgy photo of something more elusive.

For this reason, I’ve really enjoyed photographing wildlife in our urban spaces over the years, this is probably the opposite of what most would consider as a happy place for a wildlife photographer! I love it though, you can almost guarantee that there will be a subject, so one component is already in place, then you just have to hope that there’s some interesting light or the subject moves into an interesting location. With patience this happens more often than not in London’s parks or the centre of local towns in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire where I spend most of my time.

This focus on urban wildlife has led to me winning the British Wildlife Photography Behind Bars - an urban grey heron fishing under a bridge Awards on two occasions, in 2017 and then in London. BWPA 2019 overall winning photo again last year in 2019 with this photo of a heron under a bridge in London. When I found out I was ecstatic, this is a competition I had only ever dreamt of winning. This photo fits a lot of the criteria I look for too, it’s a common species but in an unusual position. The heron was fishing here and moving around slowly, I could see the light starting to come through the grill so just had to wait for the bird to reveal its face and then hope that the eye was illuminated. Thankfully it all came together, and this was the result. Luckily the bird is also covering up a white sticker on the wall behind that ruined some previous photos of this scene too.

I still continue to take photos locally and am even holding my first exhibition currently at Baldock Arts & Heritage Centre, open Friday-Sunday until 12th April this year. Please come along if you can.

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Don’t forget to mention LivingLife when contacting advertisers

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