Village Life (Hitchin) Magazine August 2010

VillageLife

1st Birthday Edition

Lifestyle | Business | Community www.villagelifemag.com

FREE

ISSUE 13: AUGUST 2010

Brilliant Brussels

GOSH White Horse Fun Day WIN A MEAL FOR TWO

PLUS

• Codicote • Kimpton •Whitwell • Preston • Breachwood Green • Graveley • LittleWymondley • GreatWymondley • St.Ippolyts • Gosmore •

WELCOME

Welcome to our first birthday edition! It is hard to believe that this time last year we were just launching the magazine and now here we are with our 13th issue.

We would like to thank all of our advertisers whose revenue allows us to publish this magazine. A big thank you also to people who regularly contribute editorials and send us details for the what’s on section. We have been slowly putting together the website www.villagelifemag.com and over the next six months we will be working hard to make this a useful tool for our community.

This month you can find out about Volunteering overseas, on your travels takes us on a weekend break to Brussels and we hear how The Red Lion in Preston went in to the history books. We also feature a profile of MJS Events who provide Wedding Reception Discos and The Gardening Calendar provides more great hints and tips for your summer gardens.

We report back from our fantastic charity fun day at the White Horse, we are looking for people to help with another fun day this summer to raise money for Great Ormond Street. If you would like to get involved, please call Melanie on 01438 216 950.

Finally, to celebrate our birthday, we are offering our readers the chance to win a meal for two at The Rusty Gun, see inside for details of our competition.

We would like to thank Peter Holding for providing the photo for the front cover this month. Peter is a local photographer and can be contacted on 07786 515 398 or p.holding2@ntlworld.com Remember to email or call us if you would like your event listed for free in our what’s on section.

Enjoy the Sunshine and if you are looking for a great family day out this month, pop along to the Hatfield House Country Show on 20th, 21st & 22nd August 2010!

CALL US: 01438 216950 EMAIL US: mail@villagelifemag.com VISIT US AND READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE: www.villagelifemag.com

Jose & Melanie

CONTENTS Page 3: Page 4: Page 6 & 8: Page 10: Page 12: Page 16-17 Page 18: Page 20-21: Page 28:

Welcome to August GOSH Fun Day at theWhite Horse in Kimpton AVolunteering Adventure with Lattitude Local News and Birthday Competition Garden Calendar:What to do in August Your Local:The Red Lion in Preston Business Focus: MJS Events OnYourTravels: AWeekend in Brussels What’s on in August/Take a Break

Where Can You Find Village Life?

Village Life Magazine is delivered to 5000 homes and businesses across 10 villages. Find us in Codicote, Kimpton,Whitwell, Preston, Breachwood Green, Graveley, Little Wymondley, Great Wymondley, St. Ippolyts and Gosmore.

We are increasing our circulation every month, so if you didn’t receive a copy through your letterbox, you will do very shortly.

Village Life is published monthly by MJS Publishing.

01438 216950, www.villagelifemag.com AUGUST 2010

Village Life (Hitchin) 0810.indd 3

WEEKEND IN BRUSSELS: 20

TO BE AVOLUNTEER: 6

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Melanie Saavedra 01438 216950 sales@villagelifemag.com PRODUCTION Dean Cook, The Magazine Production Company 01273 467579 deancook@magazineproduction.com © 2010 Village Life (Hitchin).Village Life (Hitchin) is an independent magazine and does not endorse the products or services that appear in the magazine. Opinions expressed in the magazine do not necessarily represent those of the editor or of Village Life magazine.

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

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27/07/2010 16:33

LOCAL NEWS

GOSH Fun Day revisited Great Ormond Street Fun day at The White Horse in Kimpton

O

n Sunday 18th July,Village Life Magazine joined forces with the White Horse in Kimpton to put on a fun day.This is part of a campaign that Jose Saavedra and best friend Luke Gifford are running to raise money for the Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity.

Jose’s son Emilio (pictured hitting the drums) had a 5 hour operation on his head at 14 months old under the care of Great Ormond Street.The operation was a success and Jose and wife Mel were so touched by the warmth and support offered at the hospital that Jose and Luke have decided to do a trek to Peru to raise £10,000 for Great Ormond Street.

They are paying £1,500 each to cover the cost of the trip so all funds will go to the charity.

You can find out more about the story and also make a donation online at www.justgiving.com/joses The fun day was a huge success and we managed to raise £1002, a whopping 10% of the target of £10,000.

Firstly we would like to thanks Janet Johnson at the White Horse for letting us use the pub and for being so supportive, Janet also contributed the wonderful hamper prize for the treasure hunt and raised money with the BBQ, as well as helping with the

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organisation. A big thank you also to all of the staff!

We would also like to thank the following businesses for contributing a prize for the raffle – Emily’s Tea Shop in Whitwell, Fringeline / Liberation in Kimpton, Herts Helpdesk in Stevenage and The Portrait Barn Studio in Little Wymondley .

We would like to thank everybody that came along on the day, it was great to meet many of you and we really appreciated the support for this wonderful cause.

Finally a huge thank you to Hayley and Joleene for running the face painting stall, to Gary for running the cake and competition stalls, to Lily and Friends for playing a great set and to family and friends for helping on the day.

Janet will be running a bar and BBQ at the all day 6 a Side Cricket Tournament at the Kimpton / Whitwell Who Cricket Ground on August Bank Holiday Monday, in support of Herts Air Ambulance.

Also on 9th October there is a Festival of Music at the Memorial Hall in Kimpton raising money for Herts Air Ambulance and Village Charities.This will be a ticket only event and tickets will be on sale shortly, watch this space for further details or speak to Janet for a ticket.

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

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VOLUNTEERING

A Volunteering Adventure

V

olunteering abroad before, during or after university could be the best decision you’ll ever make. Not only will you make friends for life, have unbelievable adventures and discover who you really are, you’ll also be learning vital skills to improve your chances of getting into university or securing that all important first job.

Lattitude Global Volunteering offers long term volunteering placements (3-12 months) in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Ecuador, Fiji, Ghana, India, Japan, Malawi, Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa,Tanzania,Vanuatu and Vietnam.

Education placements are really varied and enjoyable and a volunteer could be assisting teachers, holding conversational English classes or even be in charge of a class teaching a number of subjects to A-level standard.

On community placements volunteers could work with disabled or neglected children or adults, playing games, singing, going on days out; they could

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work in a hospital engaging with patients or become part of the development of a rural community.

On conservation placements volunteers could be monitoring wildlife, restoring habitats or managing national parklands. It’s a hands-on opportunity to learn about the wider environment of the country.

Clare taught at a primary school in Vanuatu

After years of research I organised my volunteering placement with a Charity called Lattitude Global Volunteering.They offered the chance to completely immerse myself in a different culture, to really challenge myself and to make a real difference.

After a few months teaching I had the most amazing morale boost! Whilst walking through the market a lady came up to me, beaming, and, grasping my hands, told me how completely and utterly thankful she was for having me as the French teacher for her little boy — Watson. I heard how, everyday,Watson had walked home and then opened up his books again with his younger brother, who they could not afford to send to school, and passed on – from his grubby French book - everything I had taught in that day’s lesson. At that moment two timid looking boys were ushered out from behind their mother.

I smiled at Watson and bent down beside his brother. ‘Ca va?’ I asked. A kick in the shins from Watson and this little shoeless child who had

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

fab A da u y o lou ut s !

COUNTRY SH OW

20th, 21st & 22nd August 2010 COME & MEET – Matt Baker BBC TV country presenter Celebrity cookery theatre • Rural crafts • Traditional breeds Children’s farm • Steam engines • Fine foods • Archery .... and lots more

10am to 6pm

Prices on the gate: Adults £11.00 Senior £10.00 Children (5-15) £5.00 Family £28.00 Tickets: www.hatfield-house.co.uk or Campus West, Welwyn Garden City Advanced tickets: Adults £8.80 Senior £8.00 Child £4.00 Family £22.40 Tel: 01707 287010 Hatfield House, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 5NQ

VOLUNTEERING

never set foot inside a classroom gazed up at me, his round, hazelnut eyes fixing on mine as he replied ‘Ca va bien merci’. Another nudging kick from Watson and he remembered his French manners — ‘et vous?’

It was like my whole insides were alight!

I was beaming for at least a week after! This lady and her two boys had given me the most incredible feeling imaginable; I went to lessons so much more confident of my abilities.

Those six months I spent on the other side of the world hold so many stories, memories and images.They made me question everything I’ve ever known, opened my eyes to a life I’d never even known existed and made me more emotional than ever before!

Cassim volunteered in a Red Cross Hospital in Japan

Cassim did not pass the interview stage of his application for Medical School so he took a year out to volunteer at a Red Cross hospital in Japan, with Lattitude Global Volunteering.

“During my first medical school interview I was shaking and extremely nervous. My knowledge was definitely inadequate and I was not equipped to present myself as a potential medical student. But on my placement, as I learnt more Japanese, the Director of the hospital allowed me to work in the emergency room, where I gained a valuable amount of hands on medical experience. I returned to the UK after my placement as a new person; a potential doctor and as a result I passed the interview.”

Cassim has just completed his first year at King’s College London School of Medicine and came third in his year, something he feels he could not have achieved without the support of Lattitude Global Volunteering.

Lattitude Global Volunteering offers funding and bursaries to those who would struggle to pay the fees required to volunteer overseas. “My dream of becoming a doctor was made possible thanks to the bursary I received from Lattitude and the experience I gained through my 8

volunteering placement, which gave me confidence, independence and medical knowledge”.

Cassim also learnt a lot about Japanese culture during his time there. “Japan offers a lot to people with a keen desire to immerse themselves in a different culture. I climbed to the summit of Mount Fuji, tasted food I never thought I’d eat and learnt to speak, read and work in a language I never thought I would learn!” explains Cassim. “I was humbled by the respect shown to me and my fellow volunteers at the hospital and will always cherish the memories from this opportunity.”

To find out more about how you can make an impact please visit www.lattitude.org.uk, email volunteer@lattitude.org.uk or call us on 0118 959 4914

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

Wedding Show Tornado Event Hire

11am – 4pm, Sunday 19th September 2010 Woolmer Green Village Hall, Hall Lane, Bridge Road, Woolmer Green, Knebworth, Herts, SG3 6JG Whether you are recently engaged or just need a few final details to complete your wedding planning, the Tornado Event Hire Wedding Show at Woolmer Green has something for everyone.

Woolmer Green Village Hall is located in a quiet setting near Knebworth, Hertfordshire. Outdoor facilities include: a large car park, children’s play area, tennis court and greenery surroundings. It is very attractive and provides an excellent facility for Weddings and all types of events. The Main Hall seats around 180 people. Inside facilities include: a large kitchen, meeting and sports hall, two smaller rooms, toilets and bar.

Come along and enjoy a day of meeting top wedding professionals who will help you to make your day a special and memorable one including; bridalwear,wedding cars, photography, balloons, Limo Bus, jewellery, decorations, cakes, stationary, honeymoons, caterers and entertainment to name a few..

Free entry and Free parking • Refreshments are available with a fully licensed bar

www.tornadoeventhire.com If you are interested in exhibiting at the show, call David on 07738 129 063

LOCAL NEWS

The Rusty Gun short listed in Awards

I

nnventure, owners of the Rusty Gun on the Hitchin to Codicote road, have been short listed in the ‘Best Food Offer’ category in the MA200 Awards and also stand a good chance of being named overall winner at the awards ceremony in November. Managing Partner, Andy Lilley said “we are thrilled to be named.We only opened in April so this is a huge accolade for us.We have been receiving great feedback from our guests but to be nominated for such an award after a short time is fantastic!”

The Rusty Gun, a 18th Century country inn with its shop, old style country pub bar and 90 cover fine fresh food restaurant offers food priced from £5 for the soup of the day, to a St Merryn aged fillet steak at £24.The bar has an area which welcomes ramblers with their muddy boots and dogs, where they can enjoy an inexpensive bar menu without digging too deeply in to their pockets.

Looking at restaurant menu, there are some amazing dishes on offer.The starters include the Rusty Gun ‘prawn cocktail’ with prawn and mary rose dumplings, served with a local crayfish and crab salad with lobster mayonnaise for £7. The mains 10

include pea and truffle risotto with fresh black truffle for £13, stuffed breast of maize fed chicken with fondant potatoes pea shoot salad, spicy sausage roll, parma ham and a smoked tomatoe jus for £15. On Sunday’s you can enjoy a traditional roast dinner with a choice of pousin or pink rib of beef.

You can access the seasonal monthly menu changes with offers and other benefits by becoming ‘a friend of The Rusty Gun’. Just go on line and complete a short form via the website – www.therustygun.co.uk

WIN A MEAL FOR TWO Village Life Birthday Competition

To celebrate the first birthday of Village Life magazine, we have teamed up with The Rusty Gun to offer a meal for two for our readers. All you have to do is answer the following question: In which month this year did the Rusty Gun open its doors?

Please send your answer along with your name and telephone number to us at mail@villagelifemag. com or in the post at MJS Publishing, 18 Blackdown Close, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 6AX Competition closes on 10th September and the winners will be announced in the September edition of Village Life. Please note the date and time of meal will be at the discretion of The Rusty Gun and entrants must be over 18 years of age.

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

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GARDENING

A garden in

Summer W

ell, the school holidays are upon us, and what better place for our family and friends to get together to enjoy the weather than outside in the garden.

Hopefully the warmth we enjoyed in June and July this year is still around.We can now fire up the barbeque, chill the drinks and sit back, graciously accepting the inevitable nice compliments about our garden that all our discerning, knowledgeable visitors are bound to pass us….well, something like that, anyway!

Hopefully, the lack of rain will mean no lawn mowing for a while, just keep an eye on the weeds (they’ll be the healthy green plants in the midst of an otherwise sea of brown). Either mow the tops off them or dig them out with a thin bladed tool, even an old screwdriver will do the job, the lawn should grow into the gaps when the rain inevitably comes.

Certainly don’t feed your lawn while it is dry, it will only burn it and be a waste of money, anyway.

Watering will be a waste too. No, just be patient, in 12

six weeks or there about it will be nice and green again after the weather breaks.You could always have a quick go round the edges with the long shears to tidy them up. I think a tidy lawn can generally cover up quite a bit of a less than perfect garden. I suppose I should add, if we aren’t lucky with the weather we will still be mowing once a week all month, between the showers but at this stage lets all feel optimistic and keep our fingers crossed for a long dry spell.

Pots and containers will need daily watering and regular feeding, slow release fertiliser tablets work really well, to keep the plants happy and don’t forget to deadhead them to keep them looking tidy. It will also encourage them to try to flower again.

You will obviously be watering your borders, I hope. Unfortunately this creates the perfect conditions for weeds, so keep annoying them by pulling them up, before they get the chance to go to seed and scatter. If you don’t, this will make the job a hundred times harder, later – you may have heard the saying, “1 years seeds, 10 years weeds!”

If your hedges are looking a bit ragged with the odd quick growing branch or two, it’s a good time to give them a bit of cosmetic cutting to keep them in check, it will mean less work in the autumn as well.

Those of you who have been watching your wisteria runners blow gently in the breeze and haven’t cut off the wispy bits yet, now is the last chance to tidy them before its too late.

I hope those of you who planted your runner beans and tomatoes are starting to get your first crop, Doreen next door is almost up to her five a day on tomatoes alone. Keep picking your runner beans as and when they are big enough and certainly don’t let them go to seed. Runner beans are actually under the impression that all they have to do is create next year’s seeds.They don’t realise that their main job is to provide a tasty crop of fresh green beans for our dinner table. Keep watering and feeding them all.

Is it me or are today’s butterfly bushes (buddleja or buddleia) failing to live up to their reputation? Our one has hardly seen a visitor all summer? What about yours?

Finally, deadhead your roses as the blooms fade to help them flower again and keep them all tidy.

Anyway, I think that’s enough to be getting on with, don’t you?

Carens Creations 07855 862412, email: caren@carenscreations.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

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10/05/2010 18:24

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

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DOWN TO THE LOCAL

Your local Pub Review

The Red Lion

T

he Red Lion pub is the heart beat of Preston; it is the HQ of the local cricket team and was even visited in July

by England Cricketer Matthew Hoggard, who dropped in for a pint.There are many other groups who meet at the pub including a metal detection society, a golf society, an angling club and many cyclists and ramblers who enjoying walks through the countryside. Finally, there is also an Archaeological society that visits regularly as Preston is an old Knights Templar hub of activity and many local areas are of archaeological interest.

Apart from being a lovely country pub, this beautiful eighteenth century building has amazing history being the first pub in the UK to be owned by the residents of its village. In 1982 the pub belonged to Whitbread, at the time they had decided to turn the

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village pub into large Beefeater style restaurant with three bars and a huge car park in place of the garden. However, the brewer had not reckoned with the locals, who did not want their pub ruined.

They rose up in defiance and forced the brewery to back down.

In the end,Whitbread offered to sell the pub to the village for £150,000 and the locals raised £125,000 in just three weeks.

The locals became the owners and subsequently leased it to the landlord.They agreed that 80% of the villagers would own shares to avoid a single person having a majority stake.The whole village got involved to give the pub a transformation, a complete refurbishment with a new floor, newly made curtains and all the work done by the villagers.The Bar area was constructed from a church pew fromYorkshire!

As the first pub in the UK to be

owned by its residents, the Red Lion enjoyed significant media coverage with radio interviews on the BBC and even an Australian station, the local and national press also picked up the story including the Daily Mail which featured it on Page 3 with the headline ‘Drink yourself in the black’. John Craven also visited the pub and it was the main feature story on Nationwide in the early 80s.The pub even received a letter from the Queen Mother congratulating them on their achievement.The area was close to the Queen Mother’s heart, especially with Preston’s proximity to St Paul’s Walden Bury, the large stately home which has been home to the Bowes Lyon family since 1725.The Queen Mother (Lady Elizabeth Bowes Lyon) was born at the house in 1900. On 13 January 1923, whilst walking in the woods around the

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

DOWN TO THE LOCAL

house, Elizabeth accepted the proposal of marriage from Price Albert.

Today, 30 years after Preston’s Revolution, the pub is still going strong and enjoying regular drinkers and diners. Of the 350 people living in Preston, 166 of them are shareholders in the pub.

The pub has won various awards during the years with the North Herts CAMRA Award 2000 being the most prestigious. The pub is regularly visited by CAMRA members who want to enjoy a great pint!

The current landlords Ray and Jo have been there for just over a year and are very friendly, giving the pub a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ray has managed a few pubs in the local area and Jo is a professionally trained pastry chef who learned her trade working for some of the finest restaurants in London. All of the food is AUGUST 2010

homemade using fresh and locally sourced ingredients; the pub has chickens which provide the eggs and a small vegetable patch provides potatoes and courgettes, although there are plans to expand the patch. In addition to some fantastic traditional English pub dishes, you will find some great vegetarian options including Panner Masala (an Indian Cheese Curry), Spiced Lentil Musaka and Goats Cheese Lasagne.There is normally a choice of three deserts, all handmade with the current selection including Crème Brule, Fruit and Almond Tart and Chocolate Fudge Cake.

If you are an Ale drinker then you will be in heaven as there are five real ales pumps available, Young’s and London Pride and then 3 guest ales ranging from Golden Ales to stronger darker ales, with new ales appearing regularly. Lager drinkers are not

left out however with a choice of Red Stripe, Carling, Kronenburg and Becks Vier.You will find the usual selection of spirits and in terms of wines there is a selection of Merlots, Riojas and Shiraz which you can buy by the glass or bottle; there is also a list of fine wines available, however you can also buy these buy the glass which is great if you would like to try a glass of something special.

The pub is family friendly and dogs are welcome, there is an enormous garden behind the pub making it an ideal place to enjoy a drink during the hot summer days!

There will be a Beer Festival at the pub on the 4th, 5th and 6th November with over 20 beers to try and lots of sausages to enjoy.

The Red Lion is open every day with food being served every day bar Tuesday from 1-2 for lunch and dinner from 7.00-8.30pm.

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Professional Wedding Mobile Disco Specialists

MJS Events

B

ased in Stevenage, MJS Events are a professional supplier of Mobile Wedding Discos covering Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, London and the South East.

They understand the importance of your big day and appreciate that every couple spends a great deal of time planning every detail to ensure the day goes smoothly.Why take a chance with the evening part?

MJS Events offers a bespoke Wedding Disco service to ensure that the evening part of your day is just as memorable as the rest. As part of their service, they organise a pre-event meeting with our wedding couple to ensure they understand exactly what the couple are looking for.They are also happy to share their expertise to help plan the evening reception.

Everything about the Wedding Disco will be tailored, including: • Music Policy on the evening • How the first/second dance will take place • How the DJ is dressed • The type of sound and lighting rig • A playlist of songs to be played on the evening • Any genres or artists to be avoided • A timeline of how the evening will run • The type of background music played • How the couple will leave the venue As a professional Mobile Disco supplier they hold £10m of Public Liability Insurance and our equipment is fully PAT tested on a yearly basis to ensure electrical safety.They take the time to understand your requirements and this is underpinned by their service contract, which gives you the peace of mind that they will turn up on time, fully prepared.

They cover a wide range of music genres including Party, Cheese, Disco, Soul, Funk, R&B, Motown, Rock, Indie, Jazz, Rock & Roll, Dance, House, Punk and all popular music from the 1960’s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s right through to today’s top 40 chart music.They have access to over 15,000 songs on the evening and are happy to take requests.

Their state of the art sound and lighting rig never fails to impress and will create the perfect

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atmosphere for your guests you to dance the night away.

When budgeting for your Wedding, it’s important to set aside money for the entertainment in the evening. Remember the evening is just as important as the daytime as it is the time when guests can really start to relax. In order to create the right atmosphere, it is important to book the right DJ. Whilst your wedding vows, the car you arrive in and so on are important parts of your day, most of your guests are much more likely to remember the evening party. Don’t cut corners in this area, a poor evening party will be talked about for longer than most aspects of your day.

By booking MJS Events, you will have piece of mind that you have selected an expert in the field and you will benefit from the experience that we have gained from performing at hundreds of Weddings all over the country.

MJS Events 0800 458 9573 or 07734 387 478 www.mjsevents.com

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

AUGUST 2010

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

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ON YOUR TRAVELS

Brussels A weekend in

B

russels has become a bustling centre for businessmen and is a thriving cosmopolitan centre which makes an excellent weekend break destination.

The buildings in the city are a fascinating mix of architectural styles, and there are numerous museums of interest.Within the 14th-century city walls is the compact centre of the old city with the beautiful Grand Place at its heart.Visitors rarely stray beyond the walls of the ‘petit ring’ of the city centre, clearly defined from the newer glitzy quarters by its narrow maze of streets.This is where the main attractions can be enjoyed, together with the best bars and restaurants.

Visitors can experience the beauty of the art and architecture, marvel at the bizarre sight of the Mannekin-Pis statue, and spend

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time shopping for traditional souvenirs such as Belgian chocolate and lace.The National Opera House and many other theatres host a variety of events and concerts for those wanting some high culture, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from.These outings can be rounded off by a drink or two in any one of the lively bars located near the Grand Place.

Brussels is packed tight with historic buildings, monuments and museums making a nearly impossibly long list of worthwhile attractions.The best way to sightsee in Brussels is to pick several personal interests and follow a tourist map accordingly, there are nearly 75 great museums in Brussels alternating between explaining Belgium’s long history, showcasing its art and architecture, and just plain

fun (more often than not, doing all three at once).

Of course, several city landmarks cannot be missed; the most important is a visit to Mannekin-Pis, which when read carefully accurately describes the statue of a boy peeing. After that rather weird tradition, visitors are free to roam the highlights such as the Grand Place, Hotel de Ville and with the city being small you can walk to most attractions, here are a few of the main attractions: Grand Place (Central Square)

The Grand Place is the heart of Brussels and has been since the Middle Ages. One of Europe’s most beautiful squares, it lies in the centre of small cobbled streets, and is surrounded by richly decorated 17th century Baroque Guildhouses and is a great place to sample the local beer!

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

ON YOUR TRAVELS

Hôtel de Ville

Brussels’ city hall is rated as the most splendid civic building in Europe.

Galeries Royales Saint Hubert

Mall lovers everywhere should visit the Galeries Royales Saint Hubert, the very first shopping arcade in Europe.

Palais Royal

Belgium’s magnificent Royal Palace was built in the 19th century as the official residence of the Belgian Royal family although today is used for official functions and other ceremonial purposes.

The palace is positioned in front of Brussels Park.

Brussels’ nightlife is a mix of relaxing and cool or hot and fast.

Most Brussels locals anchor the afternoon to the night with a pint AUGUST 2010

or two of their world famous beer.This is best done in one of the many Old World-style pubs or cafés littered about the city, such as in Place Brouckere.These are more after work meeting places, popular with all ages, than party destinations. A mellow evening can continue with jazz concerts in the many jazz clubs, or with theatre and dance shows.

With many late night bars and clubs, Rue du Marché au Charbon is a lively strip of bright bars.

Upper-town clubs tend to be more trendy and expensive than lower-town, where a more casual clientèle dances the night away to electronic beats. Renowned DJ’s frequent Brussels’ clubs and a regular line-up of heavyweight bands play at the city’s concert venues.

Getting to Brussels couldn’t be easier as the Eurostar takes just

under 2 hours from London St Pancras followed by a short taxi into the city centre. Such an easy journey means your weekend break starts immediately and hopefully stress free! The climate is fairly similar to the UK but typically has mild winters and warm summers but it is always advisable to pack a brolly as you never know when to expect a brief downpour!

Breaks start from as little as £240 per person for 3 nights staying in a 3 star hotel (2 people sharing a twin/double room), travelling on the Eurostar from London on the 3rd September 2010. So why not take a break to Brussels and sample this lovely city for yourself.

Off Broadway Travel Telephone 07932 154240, melanie@offbroadwaytravel.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

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VILLAGE LIFE

                 

        

    

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call Melanie on 01438 216 950 22

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

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AUGUST 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

28 AUGUST 2010

Please mention The Hitchin Village Directory when responding to adverts Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

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VILLAGE LIFE

The Peony Florist & Gift Shop Creative Contemporary and Traditional Floristry for all occasions.

Wide selection of unusual gifts, plants, cut �lowers and handmade cards 121 High St, Codicote Telephone: 01438 821888 www.peony�lorist.co.uk





arias QP 0410.indd 1

22/03/2010 07:50 Peony Florist QP 0710.indd 1

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

        

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24/06/2010 12:52

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

• • •

   

 



Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

AUGUST 2010

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

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VILLAGE LIFE

Village Tree Services Village Tree Services

Professional Tree Care Services All Aspects of Tree Work Undertaken Fully Qualified and Insured Logs Available 

SPECIAL OFFER 4000 distributed with Flyers  Village Life for just £75!  

Get your flyer through the door  of our 10 villages with Village Life  in the September edition at this  fantastic price. (Normally £120) 

Tel: 01462 435 873 Tel: 01462 435 873 Mobile: 07717 744274 Mob: 07717 744 274

For Specialist Matrimonial Advice

lage Tree Services 0310 QP.indd 1

 For further details 

call us on 01438 216 950

DO YOU HAVE MENTAL OR EMOTIONAL WORRIES?

22/02/2010 13:46 Flyer Ad 0810.indd 1

27/07/2010 12:31

SOLICITORS ToJCS advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory please call Melanie on 01438 216 950 23 Divorce & Separation Cohabitation Children

 We are a niche firm who provide a supportive and personal service during the stressful experience of divorce and family separation.

We cover Herts & Beds.

Tel: 01438 820 946 www.jcssolicitors.co.uk Hill House, 1 St Albans Rd, Codicote, Herts, SG4

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Can’t sleep, tension in your shoulders, knots in your stomach, headaches, anger, hopelessness or perhaps grinding teeth?

Come, let’s release them for you. Let’s change the way you feel.

August special: Extra time when you mention this ad.

Visit www.marilyntuck.co.uk or call 07962 811 907 Marilyn Tuck empowering you to be better.

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

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

  

Truly Madly Baby andTruly Madly Kid are suppliers of unique products from Mum to be right through to older kids of approximately 11 years old.   

 

 

Contact Emma to book your fun party or order a catalogue on: trulymadlykid@hotmail.co.uk or Facebook: Truly Madly Baby –Truly Madly Kid in Peterborough Great offers for the hostess!

Plumbing

Truly Madly... QP 0810.indd 1

27/07/2010 15:10

All aspects of plumbing.

Central Heating Installation, repairs and maintenance.

Bathroom Specialists Design, Supply and installations.

All trades covered.

Tiling Floor and wall specialists

We only use GasSafe Engineers.

All work fully insured and guaranteed.

MJ Burrells PLUMBING & HEATING

Call today for a free quote:

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call 931 Melanie onvisit: 01438 216 950 07874 920 or

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www.mjburrells.co.uk

AUGUST 2010

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

27

VILLAGE LIFE

What’s on in August Amba, Shepreth Wildlife Park’s resident tiger, celebrates her 12th birthday from 12pm on 4th August 2010, as part of Shepreth Wildlife Park’s ongoing commitment to global conservation. ‘Tiger Day’ which is in its 8th year running, has helped to raise over £17,000 in aid of the tiger conservation charity - 21st Century Tiger. Shepreth Wildlife Park and Waterworld, Station Road, Shepreth, Royston, Hertfordshire, SG8 6PZ

The Lucky Gingerbread Man Wednesday 11th August Shows start at 10.45am and 11.30am. The Magic Book Theatre presents a puppet show for young children about a gingerbread man. This popular show uses table top puppets, shadow puppets and everyday objects for imaginative storytelling. The show lasts approximately 30 minutes and is suitable for children from 2–5 years. £3 per child. Please call the below number to book. 01582 548600, Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 4LX

Take a Break…

Crossword

Tiger Day at Shepreth Wildlife Park and Waterworld Wednesday 4th August

Hands On History Weekend at Knebworth House Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th August

Bury Fun Day – St Paul’s Waldenbury, Whitwell Sunday 15 August 2010 1200hrs – 1600hrs (gardens open until 1900hrs) Bring your friends and family to the Bury Fun Day on 15 August to raise funds for Dementia UK. The cost is £5.00 per adult, which admits 2 children free. 16-21 year olds will be charged £2.00. There will be lots of activities and stalls so why not bring a picnic and enjoy it in the grounds of this St Paul’s Waldenbury. Please come along and support this local event, which is helping to raise awareness and funds for this debilitating illness. If you would like any further information, please contact Jan on 07901 942494 or email her on jan@grannyjanny.co.uk

Hatfield House Country Show Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd August Highlights of the show are the traditional breed shows and the children’s farm, the dancing sheep show and the milking demonstration.

In the Fine Food marquee you will find a tempting selection of foods and drinks to try. See country craftsmen at work and try some country pursuits such as longbow archery. In the arenas, there will be falconry, sheep dogs, tug of war and of course the British Heavy Horse Driving team in action. View the showground from the air in a helicopter.

Hatfield House, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 5NQ

Chilli Festival at Benington Lordship Gardens Sunday29th and Monday 30th August Started in 2006 the Chilli Festival is a very popular family event attracting thousands of visitors over two days, offering a chance to buy Chilli plants, products and sample foods from around the world.

Stalls are set up in the sheltered courtyard and Rose Garden where many different dishes are cooked fresh. A wide range of refreshments is provided to help you cool down, including cold beers and ice creams.

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ACROSS 3 Places to sit (7) 7 Of the stars (6) 8 Satirise (7) 9 M East country (4) 11 Raced (4) 12 Canal boat (5) 15 Fibbed (4) 16 Smart (4) 17 Race meeting (5) 18 Behaves (4) 19 Jetty (4) 21 More sugary (7) 22 Responds (6) 23 Shoulder muscle (7)

DOWN 1 Large amount (4) 2 Lines (7) 3 Cold dish (5) 4 Dash (4) 5 Art form (3,5) 6 Marine bird (6) 10 Fragrant (8) 11 Drink daintily (3) 13 Take back (7) 14 Type of element (3) 15 Rented (6) 18 Ventilated (5) 19 Supernatural being (4) 20 Majority (4)

SODUKU

Your chance to travel back in time experiencing an historic family fun day. Activities in the house will include calligraphy, dress in Tudor costume, hear and play Tudor musical instruments and learn a dance.

Garden activities will include bowls, brass rubbing, rush matting and much more. Traditional crafts and demonstrations. Knebworth House, The Estate Office, Knebworth, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2AX

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

HOME APPLIANCE REPAIRS

“Would your garden also benefit from a makeover?

If your answer is ‘Yes’, then I’m here to help you”

Repairs of Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Electric Cookers & Ovens and all domestic appliances.

CAREN BLACK – Garden Designer

Qualifications • • • •

RHS Certificate in Horticulture: Distinction 2002 Diploma in Plants and Planting Design Student of the Year 2003: Capel Manor College Diplomas in Garden Design and Garden History

Experience • •

Founded Caren’s Creations in 2003 Has designed over 40 gardens - portfolio and client references available for inspection

Specialist in Hotpoint, Indesit, Ariston, Creda and Whirlpool.

Services • • • • •

Gardens Designed in full consultation with Clients Full range of individual, personal plans Project Management Full Planting service Gardens Restored / Maintained.

Caren’s Creations We tailor our service to fit your requirements Contact: Caren Black or Cliff Martin Tel: 01438 871373 (Whitwell) or 07855 862412 Email: caren@carenscreations.co.uk

367 Complimentary Alcoholic / Soft Drinks Discounts for Senior Citizens 10% off with this advert 8 High Street, Offley. SG5 3AA Tel: 01462 768367 Not to be used with any other offer or discounts.

AUGUST 2010

DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

Tel: 01438 720304

Mobile: 07739 922493

UNISEX SALON

SALON

aren's Creations QP 0610.indd 1

SHIRON

Shiron Domestic 14/05/2010 09:19 QP 0310.indd 1

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

25/02/2010 12:34

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SHOWCASE

MOBILE DISCOS

COMPUTER PROBLEMS

Want to kick your computer?

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Cutting Edge Tiling

odicote Online 0610.indd 1

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Michael Shelley

10/05/2010 18:41

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Call Natalie on 07773 421547

CALL 01438 216950 Terms and conditions apply.

Fantastic flyer printing service Flyers are printed on both sides in full colour on 130gsm paper.

A5 double-sided 4pp A5 A4 folded in half 6pp DL A4 folded in three

5,000 10,000 15,000 £150 £240 £320 £270 £415 £550 £242 £330 £420

5,000 A4 double-sided £225 4pp A4 A3 folded in half £320 Artwork design from just £50

10,000 15,000 £300 £380 £500 £650

For further details call us on 01438 216 950.

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Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

AUGUST 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

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   18

AUGUST 2010

Please mention The Hitchin Village Directory when responding to adverts

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

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Comprehensive Construction Solutions – there is only one name to consider…

Devereaux offer a total solution covering all aspects from demolition, renovation and new build construction. If you want to experience a pro-active approach from a ‘can-do’ company then we are only a phone call away.

• Electrical Works • Brickwork • Plastering • Flat Roofing • • Pitch Tiled Roofing • Extensions • Loft Conversions • • Conservatories • Ground Works • Under Pinning • • Landscape Works • uPVC Windows • • Commercial and Domestic Refurbishment • • Plumbing and Heating Services • • Interior and Exterior Decorating • •Block Paving and Tarmacing • • Security / Barrier Fencing • Flooring • • Kitchen and Bathroom Specialists (Wet Rooms) • • Disabled Bathroom and Kitchen adapations • • Full Architectural Services • Structural Engineer Surveys •

Telephone: 01707 385422 Visit: www.devereauxs.co.uk Email: info@devereauxs.co.uk