Village Life (Hitchin) February 2011

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Lifestyle | Business | Community www.villagelifemag.com

FREE

ISSUE 19: FEBRUARY 2011

SAVEUR RESTAURANT FOOD REVIEW

Dog Training Tips

Romantice Venice

PLUS WIN A MEAL FORTWO

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

The Rus ty G St Ippoly un ts.

Highly Com

men at the 2 010 Nat ded ional Best Foo d Award s.

Country Restaurant, Pub and Shop Serving fantastic food, local beer and great value Australian wine Spring Offer

£10 OFF your food when you spend £30*

OR A FREE LIFT HOME

within 10 min drive - limited availability – Book Now!*

JUST BRING ALONG THIS AD! • Freshly prepared food cooked with passion and flare!

• Unique wine selection • Our own Rusty Gun bitter • Garden reared piglets • Locally sourced Produce Shop “Excellent service and superb food. Quality was truly brilliant!” Janice Allen August 2010

The Rusty Gun London Road, St Ippolyts, Herts, SG4 7PG

Tel: 01462 432653

www.rustygun.co.uk

*A pre-booked lift home may be available when 4 or more pre-book a table, Sunday evening to Thursday evening (or lunch) to; Hitchin, St Ippolytts, Gosmore, Little Wymondley,Wymondley, Codicote, Preston, St Pauls Walden,Whitwell, RableyHeath, Old Knebworth, Charlton. Sunday evening to Thursday evening inclusive for lunch or evening meal. Offers end 7th March 2011 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer (excludes Valentines day.)

Company Registration number: 04792721

WELCOME

February brings out the romance in everyone with Valentine’s Day. According to the dictionary this means “a day for the exchange of tokens of affection” so with this in mind, don’t forget to order your bouquets from Peony Florist and Gift Shop in Codicote (we would like to thank Lotty at Peony for the front cover image) or maybe book a table at Saveur restaurant (reviewed this month) for your special meal. Also our competition winners from last month would recommend a visit to Chez Jerome in Dunstable.

This month On Your Travels takes you to the romantic city of Venice, we hear from our regular columnist Marilyn Tuck and we profile Millhouse Trading who specialise in sash windows.

Visit our website and sign up for our newsletter to be kept up to date and receive exclusive special offers from local businesses. Don’t forget to email us with details of your events so we can list them for you in the” What’s on “section.

And finally, Melanie gave birth to a healthy baby boy last month; see a photo on page 4.

Bye for now

Jose & Melanie

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

CONTENTS 3:

Welcome to February

4:

Local news

5:

Wellbeing: Marilyn Tuck – Stop Smoking

8:

Food Review: Saveur Restaurant in Codicote

12-13:

Business Focus: Millhouse Window Workshop

18:

Dog Training Tips: Separation Anxiety

20:

Photography Tips:Throwing light on shadows

DOG TRAINING TIPS: 20

ROMANTIC VENICE: 24

24 & 25: OnYour Travels:Venice 28:

What’s on in February/Take a break

Where Can You Find Village Life?

Village Life Magazine is delivered to 6000 homes and businesses across 12 villages. Find us in Codicote, Kimpton,Whitwell, Preston, Breachwood Green, Graveley, Little Wymondley, Great Wymondley, St. Ippolyts, Gosmore, Knebworth and Welwyn Village.

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 FEBRUARY 2011

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Melanie Saavedra 01438 216950 sales@villagelifemag.com PRODUCTION Dean Cook, The Magazine Production Company 01273 467579 deancook@magazineproduction.com © 2011 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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LOCAL NEWS

100 years of a Gardening Club The Gardening Club has been running for over 100 years and it has had many generations of families as members over the years, they are always looking for new members.

It all started in Old Knebworth as Knebworth Cottage Gardens Society then changed its name to Knebworth Horticultural Society, and now is called Knebworth and District Gardening Club.

The Club is a very friendly with a committee that has been together running things for many years. The committee is more than happy to help with any questions related to growing and showing of plants, cookery , flower arranging and photography .

The club holds two shows every year in April and September with classes for all including children, they also hold talks and organise coach trips. This year they are going to Hampton Court Flower Show and Gardens in Norfolk.

They first event this year is their pre show evening and talk on growing and showing with the judges and committee on the 23rd February at 8pm at Knebworth Parish Centre (next to St Martins Church in Knebworth.)

For more information about The Gardening Club please contact the membership secretary - Mrs Sheila Read on 01438 318441.

VillaGe life PUBLISHERS FAMILY ADDITION Luis Jack Saavedra was born on 18th January 2011 weighing 6lbs 5oz. Mother and baby doing well!

cheZ WinnerS

Diane and husband Chris were the lucky winners of our December competition to win a meal at Chez Jerome in Dunstable.

Diane’s told us,” We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, the French food was good and there was a really pleasant atmosphere with great service, Lina really looked after us.

It was also easy to park. We would definitely recommend it and will be back, thank you Chez Jerome and Village Life!”

You can find Chez Jerome at 26 Church Street, Dunstable, LU5 4R. To book a table, call 01582 603 310 or visit www.chezjerome.co.uk for further information.

langley end resident wins the Weakest link Pat Bensky from Langley End appeared on The Weakest Link game show on 15th December last year and walked away with a prize fund of £2,620.

At the beginning of each year, rather than make New Year Resolutions, Pat puts together a list of goals for the year including one thing that she has never done before. Last year that goal was to appear on a TV game show so she applied for The Weakest Link, received the application form and sent it off. The process involved an initial phone interview followed by an invitation to audition at a mock run of the show where researchers pick on each person to see how they will react to Anne’s comments. The audition was sent to head office and seven months later Pat

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received a letter inviting her on to a show.

When asked about Anne, Pat commented “Anne is sharp and very witty, she had us all in stitches. She intimidated some of the contestants but I enjoyed the banter with her!”

On winning the show, Pat said, “It feels great, I was so nervous and I didn’t really expect to win. I suppose everybody says that but it’s great that I did.”

Pat is a Publishing Consultant and her company Catbase Software Ltd helps people to publish books, catalogues, price lists, directories etc. Visit www.catbase.com for further information or call 01462 454522.

Pat is also a co-founder of Catalyst Business Group, a group where people can get practical, helpful advice and support from fellow business owners: www.catalystbizgroup.com

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

FEBRUARY 2011

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WELLBEING

Stopping Smoking This is for those of you who smoke and have talked about giving up.

I

n past articles I have talked about removing blocks that maybe holding you back, blocks that are stopping you putting your foot down and enjoying life.

These blocks could be things like anxiety, emotional hang ups, all sorts of worries, weight, health and habit issues.

Now, whether you consider cigarettes and smoking fall into this category in your own life, it doesn’t really matter, but smoking has certainly settled inside you permanently. It has indeed become a habit and is constantly there reminding you that you need to light up at various times throughout the day.That you need to go out the door, need to hover in a corner from the rain, need to walk away from a good conversation, that you need to light up and take time out. I am 6

sure I don’t need to tell you this.

If you think about it smoking has actually become a huge part of your life – your day revolves around where you can smoke and where you can’t, how many you have left, when you need a smoke, and why you need to smoke.You know you use it to calm down, to get away from difficult situations, to think, to clear the air, to relax, to accompany a drink, and so on.

You also know that if you haven’t talked about giving up at some stage then someone close to you probably keeps reminding you that you should.This, of course, makes you dig your toes in. No one likes being told they should do something.

I should point out here that nicotine is one of the most poisonous substances known to man.The nicotine extracted from one cigarette and injected directly into the vein will kill in seconds.

It is enough to kill a horse.Yet, nicotine is just one of the many

toxic substances, including arsenic, cynanide, carbon monoxide, and prussic acid, in a cigarette.

Believe it or not a smokers body is in constant stress. It is continually trying to fight off these substances and it is continually being fed them. It gets no time to relax. Nicotine is a vaso constrictor, arteries narrow and the heart has to work much harder to push the blood around, getting vital oxygen to every organ, while rubbish in the lungs reduces their capacity to produce the oxygen.

Resistance to infections, viruses and cancers is impaired due to the immune system being otherwise occupied. Reproductive potency is detrimentally affected…. And so it goes on.

Every cigarette that you smoke will rob you of six minutes of life expectancy. If you smoke 20 a day that’s 2 hours, 30 days a year, plus £2000 up in smoke!

The comforting thought is that you were born a non smoker and you have the blueprint within you somewhere that can be reactivated.There is hope.

If you want to be free of smoking then get some hypnotherapy now.There is a higher chance of this method working than any other. The price you pay will actually save you money. It will increase your energy.You will feel a huge sense of achievement.

I offer a two session stop smoking programme, First — experience hypnosis and be motivated. Second – Stop and thoroughly enjoy the change.

Marilyn Tuck 07962 811907 www.marilyntuck.co.uk

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

FEBRUARY 2011

Emily’s Tea Shop & Waterhall Farm

ENJOY: Cream Teas, Homemade cakes, light lunches and Fair-trade beverages.

VISIT: The animals at the free open farm.

Our restored 19th century barn teashop.

DISCOVER: The farmhouse garden.

We can cater for children’s parties and private functions.

Waterhall Farm, The Valley, Whitwell, Herts, SG4 8AF. Tel: 01438 871 928

FEBRUARY OFFER

Buy any fairtrade hot drink and a homemade fairtrade cake for £2.50 Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Valid until 28th February 2011.

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Saveur Restaurant

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n arrival we were greeted with a smile and shown to our table by Louise who took our jackets while Liam the Head Chef came out to welcome us.There is a fixed price menu which changes regularly allowing you to experience great food at a great price. The starters include Foie Gras, scallops, salmon and even snails.

The main courses include duck, lamb, three cuts of beef, fish and other mouth watering options, there is also a specials board which changes frequently.The vegetarian option changes daily and today was a tart tartin with root vegetables.

The ambiance was just right, soft lighting with candles and gentle background music.The table layout and decoration of the room provided a great atmosphere and it was nice not to be too close to other diners.

While we were enjoying a drink, we were surprised to receive a complimentary lobster cappuccino – this was a small cup of thick and creamy lobster soup with a wafer on top, I have to say this was fantastic and a great start to our dining experience. I started with the Moules Marnière – the classic French dish of steamed mussels in white wine, garlic, herb and shallots with warm toasted sour dough and rouille.The bread and sauce complimented the fresh flavour of the mussels. Mel had the tuna nicoise special which was a tuna steak (cooked to perfection) on a bed of boiled egg, tomato and potato salad. Both starters were of generous proportions and absolutely delicious.

My main course was a Pan Roasted Filet of Beef with buttered langoustines, potato, girolles, roasted baby onions and Guinness jus.The beef was cooked to my liking (blue) and the langoustines, onions and mushrooms made the beef a great dish. Mel opted for the fish special which was Loin of Cod Provencal with sauté potatoes with a Provencal sauce.The fish was a very generous portion and so fresh which she adored.

We were also presented with a side dish of fresh roasted vegetables.

For desert we had chocolate fondant which came with Swiss chocolate ice cream and a thick mouse, this was a chocolate lovers’ dream. I had a crème brule which came out in flames and was delicious.

The presentation and attention to detail in Liam’s cooking was amazing, the classic French dishes with a 8

rustic twist are a winning formula, coupled with the outstanding service we received made the evening a memorable one. It was so refreshing to see a chef with so much passion and with the new surroundings; the restaurant has all the right ingredients to offer a unique experience. I think that Codicote has a hidden gem waiting to be discovered and we were both blown away by the whole evening.We have no hesitation in highly recommending Saveur restaurant and you could win a meal for two with our competition.

Saveur Restaurant, 65 High Street, Codicote SG4 8XD. Telephone: 01438 821 600

Win a meal for two at Saveur Restaurant worth up to £60. For your chance to win just answer the following question: What is the head chef called?

Please send answers to mail@villagelifemag.com or by post to: Village Life Magazine, 18 Blackdown Close, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 6AX. Entries must be received by 28th February 2011.

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

FEBRUARY 2011

Wedding Show Tornado Event Hire

Sunday 20th February 11am to 4pm 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

Firebreather

LIMO Now taking bookings for ROYAL ASCOT – mention Village Life for two extra bottles of bubbly FREE!

16 The UltimateBus Seater Partyrts as The Party staboard soon as you Pumping Sound System Nightclub Lighting • Dance Pole LCD TVs • Music Videos Karaoke • Champagne Bar Ideal for any celebration including Kids Parties, School Proms, Hen and Stag Dos, Sporting Events, Concerts, nights out to London or any destination of your choice.

0845 643 6920 www.firebreatherlimo.com

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Millhouse Window Workshop

B

ased in Bendish, Mill House Window Workshop is a specialist company that restores repairs and manufactures sash windows and other joinery.The company was setup 10 years ago by Oliver Kelly.

Oliver had an IT software company in London and after selling the company he was looking for new challenges.While renovating his house, which included the restoration of rotten sash windows, it was difficult to find an expert to come and repair the windows so he decided to renovate and repair them himself, coming from a family of carpenters meant help was on hand if he needed it!

This made him realise that there was an opportunity for a business repairing Sash windows, he started with a free listing on a website promoting his services and the business took off from there.

Today the Mill House Window Workshop employs 15 people, half of them in the workshop manufacturing new high quality windows and doors and the other half repairing and draughtproofing existing windows out on customer sites.

They have developed their own system of repairing and double glazing windows, and over the years have worked on everything from Grade 1 listed buildings with 100 windows to terraced houses with 4 windows. They also work on Casement windows, French doors and front doors. One of their larger contracts included a large restoration project for the Grade II listed Bennington Lordship; they actually used oak from their own trees to make new parts for windows.

It is usually more cost effective to repair and draught proof a window than to replace it with a new one, and Oliver is more than happy to offer free advice over the phone. He will visit a property to assess the condition of the windows, understand what the customer is trying to achieve and will then provide a written quotation with no obligation.

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If the customer proceeds, they will take the windows apart, remove excess paint, carry out any repairs, glaze broken panes, reassemble the window and put in a discrete draught proofing system.

Their draught-proofing service for sash windows consists of a perimeter sealing system that will eliminate rattles, reduce draughts to a minimum, reduce noise from outside by up to 10dB (Often a bigger difference than double glazing) and reduce the dust and dirt that comes in through gaps.

Mill House Window Workshop can also double glaze existing windows using heritage Slimline double glazed units, which keep the character of the original windows and allow thin solid glazing bars unlike may replacement which use stuck on glazing bars Their craftsmen make all the windows to order to ensure they match the new windows to the originals as closely as possible and maintain the detailed moulding using thin glazing bars.They use the best quality materials to ensure their windows have the best durability, finish, reliability and security. All work conforms to building regulations and FENSA requirements and their windows are very different to the “off the shelf ” modern windows that usually look inappropriate.

Windows can be supplied, single or double glazed, with traditional weights and pulleys, and in a selection of high quality timber.

“We are very pleased with the work and the acoustic glazing has made a tremendous difference!!” “ I am really delighted with the restoration work – both with the way your team went about the job and with the final output.Thank you so much.”

For further information or advice on sash windows contact Oliver on 01438 871753 or visit www.sashwindowrepair.co.uk

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

FEBRUARY 2011

Do your windows and doors need restoration, replacement or draught proofing?

Mill House Window Workshop specialises in the repair, restoration, replacement and draught proofing of timber windows and doors.

We manufacture bespoke traditional handmade timber windows and doors.

We also install heritage double-glazed units that will fit into the existing rebates of most traditional windows, providing the benefits of double glazing without changing your windows.

Contact us for a free quotation.

Mill House Window Workshop Call: 01438 871 753, visit: www.sashwindowrepair.co.uk or email: oliver.kelly@sashwindowrepair.co.uk

Oakland Blinds Ad A5 Landscape VILLAGE LIFE 02/12/10 - Version 2

Up to

our complete 50% NEW YEAR On product range . . .

OFF SALE

Sale starts Wedneday 29th December.

Rollerblinds

Verticalblinds

Aluminiumblinds

Made to measure blind specialists.

Woodenblinds

Pleatedblinds

Romanblinds

Showroom, Unit 136, Stevenage Indoor Market.

St Georges Way, Stevenage SG1 1EP.

Conservatoryblinds

A member of the BBSA.

We are opposite the rear entrance to Wilkinsons

Tel/Fax : 01438 314 263 Mobile : 079 700 34578 Opening Hours : Wed / Thu / Fri / Sat, 8.30am - 5.30pm Why not visit our website : www.oaklandblinds.co.uk

DAVID THOMAS GARAGES Service is our Business • • • • • • • •

For all your vehicle servicing and MOT requirements Latest Bosch Diagnostic Equipment Air conditioning servicing and repairs Fuel injector testing and ultrasonic cleaning Friendly, personal service from family run team All work carried out by fully skilled and trained staff We do not carry out extra work without your authority Courtesy vehicles available on request

Telephone: 01438 820 288 www.davidthomasgarages.co.uk Newtown, Codicote, Herts. SG4 8UG 1 Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 14 David Thomas Garages HP 1110.indd Village

21/10/2010 10:46 FEBRUARY 2011

James Howe Landscapes Design

Construction

Maintenance

Design Services Grass Cutting Planting Turfing Drainage Garden Clearance Brickwork Tree Work Hedge Reductions Patios Driveways Fencing Decking Rockeries Water Features Free quotation and advice.

With James Howe Landscapes, you are guaranteed a friendly, reliable and quality service.

M: 07787 517372

T: 01438 820148

jameshowelandscapes@btinternet.com

VILLAGE LIFE

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

FEBRUARY 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

Ewart Price S O L I C T O R S

1st Floor, 16-18 Church Road, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire. AL8 6PS Telephone: 01707 387884 or visit: www.ewartprice.com Mike Bottomley (Partner), specialises in wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney.

Home visits can be arranged without charge.

Please feel free to call on 01707 387884 or e-mail for advice: mbb@ewartprice.com

Ewart Price: Personal…practical…professional Ewart Price HP 1210.indd 1

19/11/2010 12:48

Hertfordshire’s Premier Travel Service Airport Direct Cars provides a quality private hire car service at affordable costs, using a modern fleet of Saloons & MPVs (up to 8 seats) for business or private travel.

All drivers are fully licensed and we are very experienced in organising transport solutions for meetings & conferences. Single or multi person travel can be arranged giving you the total visibility on all transfers and costs.

Airport Transfer Departures & Arrivals Corporate & Business Journeys Frequent Flyer & Regular Run Service

Contact us for competitive prices on all your travel requirements or to open a business account. Telephone: 01438 812615

Sea Port Departures & Arrivals

Get your holiday off to a stress-free start and avoid paying for ever increasing car park charges. We offer competitive rates without compromising on quality of service.

Wedding Parties & Social Events Sporting Events & London Theatre Trips Discreet, Friendly Service All major credit and debit cards accepted

01438 812615

www.airportdirectcars.co.uk Airport Cars 1 FEBRUARY 2011Direct HP 0111 2.indd Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

20/01/2011 10:0917

PETS CORNER

Separation Anxiety

D

ogs are very sociable creatures and thrive on company, if your dog had a choice he/she would spend every bit of his time with you. So it’s only natural that when you go out, your dog can experience varying degrees of distress and anxiety, some dogs will become destructive.

A few points to consider: • Exercise your dog before leaving.

• Give your dog things to do whilst you are out – Chews or food dispensing toys.

• Set the situations up throughout the day whilst you are there where you leave and then come back after a couple of minutes to reassure your

dog. Aim for short successful sessions initially and build on good foundations.

• House rules. Remember to promote calm behaviour whilst around your dog.

Try to never leave dogs that are excited, or to promote excitement or anxious behaviour.

Go through doors and gates before your dog and remember that we want a calm, well mannered dog to follow us through. A crate will provide a safe environment for your dog while you are out but remember to take off the collar before leaving them in there.

Do not let your dogs sleep on your bed for safety. Do not put the puppy’s bed in the middle of

the room in the evening.We want the dogs to remember to be part of the family not the family.

Remember if you move for a dog, the dog will naturally feel more assertive! Let your dog out at various points during the day to relieve itself rather than each time they bark.

Adam Fehmi, Dog Ease Tel: 07957 284406 www.dog-ease.co.uk

Let the photographs speak for themselves Old Welwyn Construction Specialists in Extensions, Renovations, Landscaping, Patios and Driveways.

Telephone: 01438 715362 Mobile: 07748 204 818 Email: oldwelwynconstruction@hotmail.co.uk 1 Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 18 Old Welwyn Construction 0111 HP.indd Village

16/12/2010 09:47 FEBRUARY 2011

Village Life Advert Feb 2011:Layout 1 11/01/2011 12:43 Page 1

VILLAGE LIFE

You Can Be The Shape You Want

Try Odyssey Free for 7 Days www.odysseyhealthclubs.com 01438 313320

FEBRUARY 2011

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

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PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

Throwing light on shadows

O

A very important part of photography especially with portraits is the use of shadows. They instantly add depth to a shot giving the photograph a 3D appearance. Shadows can also be used to hide certain aspects of a subject’s appearance, such as the ever-popular double chin, handy as the whole point of photography is to make people look beautiful.

f course using shadows to hide things can lead to problems. If you’ve got two people in the shot, try to ensure that they are level with each other. If the light is coming in at an angle and if there’s one person standing slightly behind the other, there is a danger of a shadow being cast from the person in the foreground onto the person behind them.

The last thing you want is one person looking nice and bright and the other cloaked in darkness.

There has to be a balance so as with the example above, try

moving people around so that the light is even.

Also watch out for stray shadows cast from surrounding objects. It’s far too easy to miss these as you’re concentrating on everything else such as children that hate staying still.

It’s far too easy to miss someone walking over to see what’s going on, standing in your light, just as you’re taking the shot casting a huge shadow over your subjects.

Just as before shadows also

move, so keep an eye on them.

It’s far too easy to miss a tree, building or person casting a cheeky shadow over your subjects.

David Horder Telephone: 07786 616022 www.lensflairdigital.co.uk

Deep Cleaning plus Fast Drying for Upholstery, Carpets, Leather Cleaning Amtico & Karndean Floors Cleaned, Carpets & Fabric Protector Leather Renovation, Burn Retufting, Oriental Rugs & Curtains Specialist Recommended By Leading Retailers, Insurance Companies & Other Cleaners!

Professional, Reliable & Good Value for Money 25 years experience Courteous & Uniformed Operatives - not a Franchise We operate in Stevenage, Hitchin and the surrounding areas

74 High Street, Codicote, SG4 8XD

www.cleaningneeds.co.uk

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

FEBRUARY 2011

VILLAGE LIVING

RUSSELL DICKSON GARDEN LANDSCAPE DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

Stonework Paving Patios Terraces Walling Turfing Planting Water Features & Related Projects Call: 07833 591340 01438 821384 www.russelldicksonlandscape.co.uk e: russelldickson33@gmail.com

We have extensive experience in the motor industry and service all makes of diesel and petrol cars and light commercial vehicles.

M&L Autocare

Your LOCAL garage for cars and light commercials

• Servicing and repairs • Full on site MOT service • Collection / delivery in local area • Mechanical and electrical fault finding and repairs • Valeo Clutch Expert centre • Loan car available • Tyres & Exhausts supplied and fitted We believe in customer satisfaction and good old-fashioned quality service.

Mention Village Life to get an MOT for just £35.

To discuss your requirements or book an appointment call 01462 451166 or visit www.mandlautocare.co.uk. Units 2-4 Hillcrest, Ashbrook, Stevenage Road, Hitchin SG4 7JY M&L Autocare FEBRUARY 2011 0111 HP.indd 1

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

14/12/2010 15:0121

VILLAGE LIFE

Peter’s Window Cleaning

We clean Windows, Frames, Doors, Seals, Conservatories, Gutters Professional, reliable and affordable service covering all areas.

Call Peter on 07943 348 594

Peony Florist Gentlemen (& ladies!)

Valentines Day 14th February

Stylish Valentines �lowers, from a single red rose to a luxury arrangement. Jewellery, candles, balloons, hand made cards & much more.

Telephone: 01438 821 888 121 high Street, Codicote www.peony�lorist.co.uk

Chez Jerome

Want to play Drums?

Peony Florist QP 0111.indd 1 19/11/2010 14:54

eter's Window Cleaning QP.indd 1

French Contemporary Restaurant Now in the Good Food Guide 2011

17/01/2011 16:21

Dan Phillips: Drum Tuition

Professional, private, one to one tuition on real drums for anyone wanting to learn to play.

For fun or something more serious. All styles.

All ages. Please get in touch for more information.

Jerome & Lina invite you to celebrate this Christmas with them at Chez Jerome where great food, excellent service and a warm welcome are part of the experience.

CHRISTMAS PARTY LUNCH MENU MON-SAT- 3 COURSES: £14.95 SUNDAY LIFE JAZZ & BOXING DAY 3 COURSES: £16.95 CHRISTMAS PARTY DINNER MON-FRI, 3 COURSES: £22.95 SATURDAY, 3 COURSES: £25.95

Breachwood Green t (0)1438 833197 • m (0)7730 524711 e dphillips17579@hotmail.com

WE ARE OPEN NEW YEAR’S DAY For menus please visit www.chezjerome.co.uk Tel: 01582 603310 or email us: info@chezjerome.co.uk 26 Church Street, Dunstable, Bedfordshire. LU5 4RU

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

FEBRUARY 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

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

23

ON YOUR TRAVELS

ROMANTIC

VENICE V

enice is a truly romantic city with elegant buildings and palaces popping up over the ancient maze of narrow streets and canals.

Tourists flock to Venice all times of the year to experience this wonderful place.

Venice lies on one of a series of 117 islands distributed throughout the Venetian lagoon at the northern end of the Adriatic Sea. The historic centre is divided into six quarters; the city’s main entrance way is the Grand Canal that intersects each district as it runs the length of the city from the railway station to San Marco.

An alternative to walking the streets of Venice is to cruise the waterways onboard the motorboat buses known as Vaporetti. These are the less romantic but also less expensive substitutes for the famous gondolas.

Getting to Venice is fairly easy with flights from London Gatwick and Stansted with a flight time of just over two hours. The airport is situated five miles north of Venice with regular transport links to the main city. Hotels range from two- to five-star deluxe so every taste is catered for. The traditional mode of transport in Venice is by foot or boat, so 24

enjoy the strolls and relaxed boat trips. All visitors to Venice should buy a Venice Card, it gives you use of the main tourist services, including optional discounted airport transfers, Vaporetti services and admission to some museums and attractions.

Top attractions that you won’t want to miss are: St Marks Square, The Grand Canal, Basilica dei Frari, Rialto Bridge and the Bell Tower (Campanile di San Marco).

ST MARKS SQUARE — (Piazza San Marco) has always been the centre of Venice. The first citadel and church were erected on its foundations.

Travellers and pigeons flock to the Piazza but beware you pay a hefty price to eat or drink at the cafes that spill onto the pavements. Great for people watching and even though you pay a high price you will definitely want to rest your feet and have a coffee or something stronger. Designer shops line the streets for a great shopping experience. Head to Vittorio Costantini for exquisite glass and original lamps, Martinuzzi for real local lace, Gaggio for fine fabrics and Attombri for sumptuous jewellery.

Try traditional dishes from the Veneto – like oca in onto (goose in its own fat) or freshwater lagoon

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

FEBRUARY 2011

ON YOUR TRAVELS

fish done in saor at Antica Adelaide, get the best polpette (meatballs) in Venice at Ca d’Oro (Alla Vedova), and a strong selection of Venetian antipasti, including raw sea food, at Vini da Gigio. A writhing, glistening variety of sea creatures swims from the stalls of the Rialto and Chioggia markets into local kitchens in cluding granseola (spider crab), garusoli (sea snails) or canoce (mantis shrimps) and Venice is definitely the place to try these marine curios.

THE GRAND CANAL — The famous waterway is approximately two-miles long and faced with impressive palaces that were owned by the city’s wealthy seafaring merchants. Take the Vaporetti and tour during the day and night to see the real beauty of the Grand Canal.

The Rialto Bridge provides a good land view of the Grand Canal and is the centre of commerce in modern day Venice. Look for the local markets selling vegetables and other foods.

BASILICA DEI FRARI — This wonderful basilica is graced by several paintings by Donatello, Bellini and Titian who is also buried here. The neighbourhood around the Basilica offers a slice of Venice as it is experienced by its residents, who FEBRUARY 2011

are abandoning the city at a rapid rate due to the difficulty and expense of living in Venice.

BELL TOWER — The original Campanile which was visited by Galileo in the 17th century collapsed during repair work in 1902, the present structure was rebuilt in 1912.You can climb to the top for a nice view of the Piazza, St. Mark’s and the Doge’s Palace. The Campanile is the tallest structure in Venice.

Gondola rides are a must for every tourist visiting Venice, you can expect to pay €65 to €100 for a 50 minute ride and a gondola can take 6 people. There will also be a premium for riding at night or if you would like a song from your gondolier so make sure that you have agreed on a rate before you enjoy your ride!

There is no city quite like Venice in the world of travel, why not experience it for yourself with a short break in these dull winter months or book something to look forward to later on in the year?

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

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

For Specialist Matrimonial Advice

HOME APPLIANCE REPAIRS

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

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Village Life |

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory p www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 FEBRUARY 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

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

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

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

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

27

VILLAGE LIFE

What’s on in February Saturday 5th February to Sunday 27th February Snowdrops at Benington Lordship, Benington, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG2 7BS

Take a Break…

CROSSWORD

See the gardens carpeted in a spectacular display of snowdrops around the remains of the Norman Castle and surrounding moat. Adults £4 (£4.50 Sundays) Children: Under 16’s £2. Children: Under 12’s Free.

Friday 4th, Saturday 5th, Friday 11th and Saturday 12th February Welwyn Wailers Annual Music Hall “Network Wail” 7.30pm for 8pm start at Welwyn Civic Centre, Fish and Chip supper and licensed bar. Tickets £10 on the 4th February and £12 all other nights. Call Welwyn: 715979. All proceeds to local charities

Tuesday 8 February, 8pm - 9.30pm Codicote History Society Evening, Codicote Peace Memorial Hall “Buntingford Railway Line and the Villages it served”. Stephen Ruff will explain all about the ancient village of Standon, the small town of Puckeridge next door, the tiny village of Westmill, and Buntingford, the largest town on the line. Entry is free for members and just £3 for visitors. For more details ring Nicholas on 01438 821849 or visit www. codicotelocalhistorysociety.co.uk.

Friday 11th Feb, all day Ladies Pamper Day at The Howard Centre In aid of Isabel Hospice. Mini treatments provided by 1st year students of Oaklands College at The Howard Centre, Welwyn Garden City, Herts, AL8 6HA

Thursday 17th February to Saturday 19th February Shaun the Sheep in Shaun’s Big Show at Stevenage Gordon Craig Theatre Come and join Shaun and his friends in their very own live show. All your favourite characters from the hit BBC show will be in this magical, fully choreographed music and dance extravaganza. Box Office 08700 131 030

Saturday 19th February Opening weekend at Lee Valley Park Farms, Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 2EF

ACROSS 1 Let them borrow (4) 4 Worries (8) 8 60 seconds (6) 9 Rubber (6) 10 Fit, Smartly dressed (4) 11 Annoys (8) 13 Shop keepers (13) 16 Mixed (8) 19 Duty (4) 20 Mearsurement (6) 22 Rubbish goes in.. (3,3) (6) 23 Prisoner (8) 24 Instruction (4)

DOWN 2 Moves abroad (9) 3 Plays the drums (7) 4 Surprise (5) 5 Overloaded (7) 6 Courageous (5) 7 Night before (3) 12 Beating (9) 14 Wore the same (7) 15 Collects (7) 17 Intensive stare (5) 18 Lead a different way (5) 21 Santas helper (3)

SUDOKU

Come and meet all the animals - from pigs to goats, llamas to lambs, giant rabbits to chinchillas. Take a tractor and trailer ride or a walk through the countryside to see cows being milked in the modern dairy farm.

23rd February, Knebworth Parish Centre at 8pm Knebworth & District Gardening Club Pre-show meeting Pre-show quiz evening with refreshments and a raffle open to all, call Sheila on 01438 318 441 for further information.

Every Monday 10am to 12pm, (from 7th Feb to 14th March) - Active Together – Dance Letchworth Arts Centre. 2 The Arcade, Letchworth, SG6 3EW For Men and Women of 50-plus. Learn a variety of different dance styles.

One of the most fun and creative ways to get active, dancing makes getting fitter feel fantastic. £4 per session, Just drop in.

GET YOUR EVENT LISTED FOR FREE HERE, EMAIL: mail@villagelifemag.com or call us on 01438 216 950 28

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

FEBRUARY 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

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

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

Moles

Rats ~ Mice ~ Ants ~ Rabbits ~ Wasps Squirrels ~ Foxes ~ Birds ~ Moths ~ Fleas   

Mobile: 07890 131174 Telephone: 01767 315101

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

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

Ceramic Classes & Workshops in Hitchin

2 hour taster classes only £8 including clay 6 week courses £72 including 1lb clay • Make beautiful creative pieces in my fully equipped garden studio.

• Small friendly groups with individual tuition.

• All materials and equipment provided.

• Explore methods of working with clay to create finished fired work.

• Learn all hand building methods, glazing and decorating.

• Suitable for beginners or the more experienced.

To book call: 07952 578335 or e-mail info@claywithcarole.co.uk.

Visit www.claywithcarole.co.uk or myHitchin facebook page: Clay withDirectory Carole.

To advertise in The Village 3 Brook View, Hitchin, SG4 9NY FEBRUARY 2011

Specialists in Plumbing and heating Boiler & Heating Installations Boiler Upgrades Power Flushing Pumps, Radiators & Valves Hot & Cold Water Tanks All Plumbing & Heating work undertaken For a free no obligation quote contact 01438 712712 www.staggproperty.co.uk place call Melanie on 01438 info@staggproperty.co.uk

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

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