Village Life (Hitchin) July 2010

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JULY 2010

Marvelous Maldives

A-Z Six-Week Holiday Guide GUIDE TO BEACHES

PLUS

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

WELCOME W

elcome to the July edition of Village Life, well we have had a few nice days and at the time of writing this England has just been beaten by Germany in the World Cup…oh well!

As we are in the holiday season, we have some great holiday focused editorials for you to read including a UK beach guide and an A-Z of activities to do with the kids this summer. Our resident travel expert Melanie covers the Maldives in our ‘On Your Travels’ section with a fantastic write up. Melanie provides a great service, give her a call on 07932 154 240 if you would like here to help you plan and book your next holiday.

This month we feature profiles of a few local businesses including Airport Direct Cars, Perfect Petz and Polish and Ridley Bedrooms. Also Everest dispels some of the myths associated with Solar Energy in an interesting article.

The Gardening Calendar covers off summer gardens this month with helpful hints and tips.

Don’t forget The White Horse in Kimpton will be holding a ‘Family Fun Day’ on the 18th July to help raise money for Great Ormond Street. You will find more details in the magazine but do try to come along and give your support.

Finally, 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. In the meantime, enjoy the sunshine…

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 July

4-5:

Holiday Focus: Summertime Beaches

SUMMERTIME ACTIVITIES 6

6 & 8: Holiday Focus:The A-Z of Activities to do with the kids 10:

Everest: Solar Heating

12:

Garden Calendar:What to do in July

MALDIVES 18

18-19: OnYourTravels:The Maldives 20:

Business Focus: Ridley Fitted Bedrooms

22:

Business Focus:Airport Direct Cars / Perfect Petz & Polish

28:

What’s on in July/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 JULY 2010

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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SUMMERTIME

Summertime Beaches Aldeburgh (2 hours 50 minutes drive from SG4)

Aldeburgh is a charming, traditional seaside town. It is unspoilt and harks back to an earlier age.There is a traditional boating lake for model yachts, local museum, and historic 16th-century moot hall.The town is attractive, and has many independent shops.

The fishermen still draw their boats up on to the shore and sell fish from the beach.

Here is a selection of great beaches which are close enough to do in a day trip and handpicked for you from the official Good Beach Guide.

Southend-On-Sea (1 hour 40 minutes from SG4)

Bright, vibrant and exciting — Southend offers a glorious seven mile stretch of coastline. Award-winning beaches, beautiful parks and gardens, family fun attractions, museums, art galleries and exhilarating watersports.

Frinton-On-Sea (2 hours 20 minutes from SG4)

Tree-lined residential avenues sweep down to the elegant Esplanade and cliff-top greensward.The long stretch of sand beach is quiet and secluded.The main shopping street (Connaught Avenue) has been dubbed the “Bond Street” of East Anglia.

Brighton (2 hours 20 minutes from SG4)

England’s favourite seaside city, Brighton is historic, elegant and offbeat and the perfect place for a break.Voted one of the Top 10 beaches in the world, Brighton’s beachfront is legendary.With the famous Brighton Pier as a backdrop, daytime traditional seaside fun mixes seamlessly with night time funky beachside club culture.

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Littlehampton (2 hours 50 minutes drive from SG4)

Littlehampton is a familyfriendly, seaside resort with award-winning beaches and an enviable position on the south coast of England.

Hunstanton (3 hours drive from SG4)

Hunstanton boasts famous stripy cliffs and a fabulous beach, which has a Good Beach Award for safety and cleanliness.You can walk from one resort to the other, so you can enjoy a morning of fun and activity at the crazy golf or Sea Life Sanctuary and then spend a lazy afternoon lying on the beach beneath the rambling sand dunes.

Holkham Bay (3 hours drive from SG4)

Holkham Bay is the most extensive, diverse and dramatic nature reserve on a coastline famous for nature reserves. Windswept tide lines, a maze of creeks and saltings, miles of dunes and sandpits, shady pinewoods, green pastures and marshes: the mix of habitats and the blend of wildlife unite Holkham’s National Nature Reserve a unique place, somewhere to catch your breath in a busy world.

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

JULY 2010

SUMMERTIME

A-Z GUIDE

Six-week Holiday Activities With the school holidays coming up towards the end of the month, here is A-Z guide of activities that you can do locally or within reach of our villages.

A is for ART GALLERY. Take a look at the Copper Beach Gallery in Little Wymondley for great work from local artists. AQUARIUM. Why not do London Aquarium and the London Eye on a day trip.

B is for the BEACH. Take a look at the Beach guide this issue. BOWLING at Stevenage Leisure Park, a great rainy day stand by for all the family.

BAKING. Try baking at home if you can suffer the mess!

C is for CLIMBING CENTRE. Monkey Business at Roaring Meg in Stevenage is great place for kids to climb and run around.

D is for DRAMA CLUB. The Theatre Arts Club at St Ipppolyts Village Hall is a performing arts club for children and young people over 5 years of age.

E is for ENGINES. Visit Audley End Miniature Railway in Saffron Walden which offers a delightful 1.5 mile ride on Lord Braybrooke’s private 10 ¼” gauge railway through Estate woodland.

G is for GO-CARTING. Try Superkarts in Letchworth. GOLF. There are lots of great courses to choose from locally, Chesterfield Downs in Graveley offers unlimited access to their 9 hole course for a month for just £15!

F is for FARM. Lots to choose from including Standalone Farm in Letchworth, Slip end Farm in Luton and Mead End Farm in Leighton Buzzard. FRUIT PICKING Very satisfying, if a little tough on the back. Go Strawberry Picking in Graveley! FISHING. A great way to bond and relax with your children, try Stanborough Lakes in Welwyn or Lowbell Lane in London Colney.

H is for HORSE RIDING. Many stables offer group or private lessons for learners and those with more experience.

I is for ICE SKATING. Visit Planet Ice in Hemel Hempstead.

INDOOR PLAY CENTRES. CENTRES Try Big Space in Harpenden/ J is for JIGSAWS. Buy in a big one for all the family to do at the dining table for that inevitable rainy day!

K is for flying KITES. It does involve a certain amount of skill and technique (and wind of course!), so start simple before advancing to a stunt kite! KAYAKING. Fairlands Valley Park in Stevenage offers a range of watersports including Kayaking and Sailing.

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

JULY 2010

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 

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62 Sparrow Drive Stevenage Herts SG2 9FD Telephone 01438 724660 Mobile 07867 794100 To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call Melanie on 01438 216 950

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SUMMERTIME using a simple telescope and map of the night sky.

O is for ORIGAMI. for those with patience and a big supply of paper!

L is for LIBRARY. There will be tonnes of events at your local library this summer to encourage young readers, from poetry readings to story time. LEISURE CENTRE. why not check out if they have any special summer deals or family membership discounts?

M is for MUSEUMS. Each city really does have something for everyone and there are likely to be special exhibitions for children during the holidays.

N is for NIGHT SKY. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to become engrossed with what you can see on a clear evening

P is for PICNICS. Any excuse will do in the summer! Find out who offers a local picnic delivery service for a real treat. PARK. Never underestimate the benefit your children will get from just a 15 minute daily run around at your local park.

Q is for QUIET TIME. Essential for all family members! Make sure everyone has access to a quiet corner somewhere away from the XBox and provide a selection of interesting books.

T is for THEME PARK. Chessington, Thorpe Farm, Gullivers Land and Legoland are all under two hours away.

U is for school UNIFORM. Don’t forget to stock up for September whilst you are having fun in the holidays!

V is for VEGETABLE PATCH. Great for exercise and fresh air and very satisfying for children to eat what they have nurtured.

W is for WALKING. There are lovely walks all around our villages with great pubs to have lunch in.

X is for XYLOPHONE LESSONS. Well little else begins with X, until X-Factor starts on TV again.

R is for ROLLERBLADING. Try Rollercity in Welwyn but don’t forget helmets, elbow and knee pads!

S is for SAFARI PARK. Try Woburn Safari Park but be prepared to lose the odd windscreen wiper in the monkey enclosure! SWIMMING. With Pools

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in Letchworth, Stevenage and Hitchin this a very inexpensive activity and lots of fun.

Y is for YOUTH CLUB. Investigate what’s on offer at your local church or community centre.

Z is for ZOO. Shepreth Wildlife Park just outside Cambridge, Whipsnade in Dunstable or even London Zoo for a great day out!

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

JULY 2010

GOING GREEN

The Sunny side of the street Think you know the facts about solar heating? Think again!

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YTH: Installing panels for solar-water heating is too expensive. FACT: Depending on the number of solar panels your home requires, a solar water heating system will cost £5000-£8000. However, grants are available to pay up to £400 of that. See www.lowcarbonbuilding.org. uk/grants-for-your-home for details.

MYTH:The cost of installation never pays for itself in hot water springs. FACT:The average family spends £250-£400 a year on hot water, and solar thermal systems provide 50-70 percent* of this, so you can expect payback in around 15 to 20 years, or even sooner than that – its widely anticipated that gas and electricity prices will rise over the next few years and continue to go up.What’s more, solar thermal heating can show a return on investment of up to 4.25 percent**, which is greater than that available from most savings accounts. In addition, it will add value to your home and will also improve your homes’ Energy Performance Certificate rating, which is required when buying or selling a property.

MYTH:The water won’t be as hot as with traditional heating. FACT:The water temperature will be exactly the same; the fluid in the solar panel can reach 200 C on sunny days – more than enough to raise the temperature of the water in any hot-water cylinder to the normal thermostat setting of 60 C. And, in winter, when solar radiation is less intense.The boiler will kick in to make up the difference.

MYTH:You need a lot of space to install the panels, pumps and components. FACT: Panels will fit on most roofs.They can lie vertically or horizontally, and separately if necessary.Your hot-water cylinder will have to be replaces with a larger one because it needs room for two heating coils. But apart from that, very little extra space is required for pumps, values and control panels. Good installers provide design services to help fit the system into your available area.

MYTH:The UK isn’t sunny enough to provide my home with hot water. FACT:There is plenty of sun in the UK to provide enough solar energy for heating and other purposes. Solar panels absorb both visible light and invisible infrared light, so they will work even in cloudy conditions.They also have special coatings to 10

help retain heat, meaning they function well even in cold weather.

MYTH: It’s hard to obtain planning permission for the panels. FACT: Since April 2008 in England and September 2009 inWales, installation of solar thermal panels has been permitted for most homes through the General Permitted Development Order, as long as the property meets with basic guidelines, this means that, in most cases, you will automatically be granted planning permission. If you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland, or in a listed building or conservation area,You should consult with your local authority before installation. See www.planningportal. gov.uk for more information on obtaining permission.

How a solar system works

Panels containing a special fluid, which never boils or freezes are placed on your roof.The sun heats the fluid, which is pumped through pipe work to your hotwater cylinder, where its heat transfers to the water.

The fluid returns to the panels and the cycle repeats.

An expansion vessels allows the fluid to expand and contract as the temperature changes, and a control box with a digital display shows how much energy your panels generated.

“We wanted to be more eco-friendly” THE MARTINS live in a 1940’s-built semi-detached house just south of London, and decided to fit Everest solar water heating panels to do their bit for the environment and reduce the amount of gas they use.

“We wanted to be more eco-friendly” says Mr Martin.

The results were staggering: “In just two winter months it generated 200kWh and in summer it produced 7kWh per day”. Put into context, 7kWh daily will easily provide enough hot water fir an average family – and it’s free. Overall Mr Martin is thrilled with his solar panels. “The workmen were clean and tidy, and you hardly notice the panels as they look like loft windows” he explains. “The system is very quiet to run too.”

Words: Jill Starley and Tim Granger.

* Source www.everest.co.uk/solar-panel-energy-efficiency. ** www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2006/sep/11/energy.business For more information call Damian Dean at Everest on 0800 622 6075 or 07738 056 580

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

JULY 2010

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

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jameshowelandscapes@btinternet.com

GARDENING

Your garden in

Summer I

reckon that now July is here, we have arrived at the best month for the garden.The fruits of our labours are there for all to see and we can now sit back, pat ourselves on the back for a job well done and blissfully enjoy our garden with an air of quiet satisfaction.Well, unfortunately our gardens don’t read this article and though it is fair to say that they will probably be near their best this month, there are still things that need doing, not only to maintain what we have but also, hopefully, to prolong their appearance.

For a start if you take a moment, each time you are out there in the garden, to dead head your perennials, the bedding plants and roses it not only keeps the place looking tidy, it encourages the plants to have another go and some will flower again. If you have plants like lupins, their flowers too can be cut back at the base of the stem and they may also come again. A bit of organic fertiliser sprinkled around the base of your shrubs at this time

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will also be very well received.

If your lawn is newly laid you will need to keep it watered during any long dry spells that we have but for the rest of us with established lawns, my advice is its best during those dry spells, to let the lawn look after itself.

Yes, it will probably go brown but there are several good reasons for allowing this to happen, most importantly, it saves mowing it, so one less job to worry about, it saves money for those on water meters and lastly saves water for the rest of the planet. It will soon come back to green, anyway, when it rains, which it will, sooner or later. However, your lawn will stay greener, longer, if you raise the height of the mower blades. So for those who like a nice green lawn this is probably a decent compromise.

Those of you that are watching your tomato plants (like our neighbour, Doreen), runner beans and other fruit and veg. grow away, remember that they will need to be kept watered to

obtain a better produce and be more succulent and tasty. Runner beans, especially like a spray of water on their leaves and flowers.

While on this note, all watering that you do should take place in the evening, after any strong heat has gone out of the sun, it is easy to scorch plants that are watered during the heat of the day and also it’s a bit of a waste of water, most of it will evaporate before it has chance to do any good.

We are just entering the main holiday season, so it is time to plan ahead with a bit of co-operation between you and your neighbours or friends. Although you should give your garden a good watering before you go off to the sun, your pots, tubs and hanging baskets will really struggle without some occasional, outside assistance.

Now is the time to help each other out so that when you do come back with that tan and you’re all nice and brown, your favourite pot plants aren’t matching you for colour.

Whilst on the subject of going away, don’t make it easy for those light fingered souls who reckon that your cherished garden tools and ornaments would look much better being sold at a car boot sale. Lock you gear away before you leave or if you haven’t got somewhere suitable, at least put them out of sight.We are lucky here in the villages of Hertfordshire that we don’t have much of a problem with stealing but lets all be on the safe side – just in case.

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

Carens Creations 07855 862412 caren@carenscreations.co.uk

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

JULY 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

JULY 2010

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VILLAGE LIFE

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

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

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

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

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        

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

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 To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call Melanie on 01438 216 950 7 Please mention Village Directory when responding to advertsJULY 2010 18 Village The Life | Hitchin www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

Fringeline Unisex hair salon

VILLAGE LIFE

Liberation Beauty Salon

Unisex Hairdressers

Unisex Beauty Salon

Catering for all ages and styles

Catering for all your beauty needs

With Foil Highlights £75.50 incl. cut and blow dry

Including Reflexology & Indian Head Massage

Proprietress: Michelle Scott-Worthington

Beautician: Hayley Roberts

Fully Qualified Staff

Tel: 01438 833 468

Reduced prices for Senior Citizens & Children

Fully Qualified Staff

Tel: 07786 860 028

Late appointments upon request

46a High Street • Kimpton • Herts • SG4 8RN

Email: mattsflooring@mail.com • www.mandrflooring.co.uk

M&R Flooring 0610 HP.indd 1

JULY 2010

10/05/2010 18:24

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

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Comprehensive Constr there is only

Devereaux offer a total solution covering renovation and new build construction. approach from a ‘can-do’ company the

• Electrical Works • Brickwork • Plastering • Fl • Loft Conversions • Conservatories • Ground • Flooring • Commercial and Domestic Refur • uPVC Windows • Interior and Exterior De • Security / Barrier Fencing • Kitchen an • Disabled Bathroom an • Full Architectural Services •

Telephone: 01707 385422 Visit: www.devere

ruction Solutions – y one name to consider

g all aspects from demolition, . If you want to experience a pro-active en we are only a phone call away.

lat Roofing • Pitch Tiled Roofing • Extensions • d Works • Under Pinning • Landscape Works • rbishment • Plumbing and Heating Services • ecorating • Block Paving and Tarmacing • nd Bathroom Specialists (Wet Rooms) • nd Kitchen adapations • • Structural Engineer Surveys

eauxs.co.uk • Email: info@devereauxs.co.uk

ON YOUR TRAVELS

Maldives Marvelous

T

he Maldives is a group of low-lying coral islands, forming an archipelago of 26 major atolls, situated south west of Sri Lanka. A small percentage of the islands are inhabited and 87 are exclusive resorts boasting tropical landscapes hugged by picture-perfect beaches covered in palm trees. The islands are surrounded by coral reefs enclosing shallow lagoons and the clear blue sea is perfect for snorkelling or diving. You won’t find many better locations for truly getting away from it all and relaxing!

Most visitors to the Maldives come on prearranged package tours that include accommodation on any one of the 87 resort islands. All the resorts are located on pristine islands, with idyllic settings for water activities and long, lazy beach days. The Maldives is a great destination to team up with another stop on the way for example a 3 night break in Dubai followed by a week in the Maldives or a few days in Sri Lanka (only 1.5 hours away) beforehand. You can fly directly from London with BA on a scheduled service and Monarch on a charter flight or with Emirates if you fancy stopping over in Dubai on the way.

All flights land in the Capital Island – Male, from there

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you then either take a seaplane or boat to your resort.

The resorts are predominantly located in the three atolls closest to the Maldivian capital, in Malé (Kaafu) atoll. A few are found in Vaavu, Baa, Lhaviyani and the Ari (Alifu) atoll. Ari has recently been earmarked for development as the new Tourism Zone. Each resort has an individual character supported by traditional or modern architecture.

The larger, less expensive resorts attract young, adventure-seeking tourists whilst some of the smaller, more expensive options offer a more reclusive, intimate holiday perfect for Honeymooners. The excursions provided by the resorts vary, depending on their proximity to dive sites, local villages and natural attractions. All the resorts, however, offer watersports, such as night-fishing trips, scuba diving, snorkelling, parasailing, windsurfing, jet skiing, banana-boating and knee-boarding.

The tropical climate of the Maldives keeps things hot and humid throughout the year, but sea breezes offer some slight relief. The islands experience two wet monsoon seasons, the main one between April and October. The best time to holiday in the Maldives is

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

JULY 2010

ON YOUR TRAVELS

between December and April. Saying that we travelled to the Maldives in July during our honeymoon and were very lucky as we only experienced one day of rain in ten days!

We stayed at two different islands having five nights on each one. The first one is one of the largest islands called Kuredu, which is a 4 star island with five restaurants, a coffee shop, choice of bars, two swimming pools including a children’s pool, a fitness room, spa, TV lounge, floodlit tennis court, a dive centre and a 6-hole pitch & putt golf course. Water sports include windsurfing, sailing and snorkelling. This island is perfect for families or those who get bored of relaxing as there is a lot packed in to the 1000m by 500m island.

The second resort was the luxurious and stunning 5 star Conrad Maldives Rangali Island which occupies two tropical islands in the South Ari Atoll. The two islands are linked by a 500 metre long foot bridge (or Dhoni shuttle boat) across the lagoon. There is also a Spa retreat with its Spa Water Villas and specially designed spa packages.

With a choice of seven restaurants, three bars, infinity pool, over water spa and Spa Retreat with steam, sauna and Jacuzzi, Beauty Salon, yoga, gym, aerobics studio, JULY 2010

floodlit tennis court and dive Centre there is also plenty to do here. Water sports include catamaran sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing, Jet Ski, canoes and pedalos. You will also find “Ithaa”, a unique underwater restaurant, 5 meters below sea level which has glass walls and just 6 tables. This provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to dine under the sea and watch stingrays and other tropical fish swimming past you. This resort provides the ultimate luxury holiday; you even get access to a private Hilton lounge at Male airport where you can have a massage while you wait. This island was so romantic and the villas absolutely stunning, the service was truly outstanding; however it is one of the most expensive resorts in the Maldives.

If you fancy escaping to the Maldives for your dream holiday, call me and I can match you to your perfect island and with so many to choose from there is an island to match every budget!

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

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

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AT HOME

Company profile:

Ridley Fitted Bedrooms

T

his month we find out about Ridley Fitted Bedrooms from Paul Ridley.

Ridley Fitted Bedrooms and Study Furniture is a small family run business who have been designing made to measure fitted furniture for over 25 years.We have gained a wealth of experience over the years and we specialise in designing and installing traditional and modern high quality furniture for your home.

No job is too difficult, too little or too large.We are very pleased to be able to offer a wide choice of fitted bedrooms including an extensive choice of interior designs and storage solutions. A wide selection of sliding doors is also available. So …..

Wake up to a Ridley Fitted Bedroom – Floor to ceiling space saving ideas! No clutter, no more mess!

We have the ideal storage solution for every room.

Our prices are consistent, great value for money and there are no hidden extras.The price we give is the price you pay!

It is now very popular working from home and we are able to make furniture to include made to measure bookcases, display cabinets, filing cabinets and computer desks.

A large amount of our work is from recommendations and all installation work causes minimal disruption to your home and installed by our own highly qualified fitter. ‘From Design to Installation customer care is our priority’ 20

A member of our design team will visit your home to discuss your requirements, and they will then be able to show you samples, pictures and designs to suit your needs. The design team at Ridley Bedrooms are able to completely project manage your dream bedroom or study. We can co-ordinate all services to make your home transformation as painless as possible.

Ridley Fitted Bedrooms 01462 734455 www.ridleyfittedbedrooms.co.uk

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

JULY 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

JULY 2010

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

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LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Airport Direct Cars

Perfect Petz and Polish

T

his month we met up with Airport Direct Cars who provide transfers to Airports, Seaports, Sporting Events and Trips to London or any long distance pre-booked journey.

Having used them ourselves, we would highly recommend their service!

Airport Direct Cars is a local company with five drivers run by father and son team Tony and Aaron Gentle.They have a fleet of clean, modern cars and MPV’s up to eight seats and they pride themselves in providing great customer service.

Around 10 years ago, Tony was driving Taxis for a local company doing various pickups.While he enjoyed the driving, he found that it was difficult to provide a good service for airport runs. Typically these were issued to drivers last minute and often the customers would either arrive late or be met at the airport on their return late. Tony believed that by specialising in Airport Transfers and long distance bookings, he could provide a much better service to the customer so he started Airport Direct Cars in 2000. It seems that Tony was right as he has some great Corporate Clients who have remained with him over the years. Airport Direct Cars are fully insured and fully licensed by the council and their drivers are all studying for an NVQ (This is being made law for Taxi Drivers during 2012) “Many, many thanks for an excellent service that you provided us with on Saturday. Everyone enjoyed themselves and complemented “you” (all eight drivers) on the professionalism of the service as well as their friendliness.

Thanks once again.” John & Clare (Wedding at Hatfield House, 2009) “When our flight at Luton was cancelled we were re-routed to Stansted. I called Airport Direct Cars and they came to the rescue. Even though it was in the evening and we were delayed by three hours, it was a pleasure being picked up and driven by them!” Jose and Mel (Village Life Magazine).

Airport Direct Cars 01438 812615, www.airportdirectcars.co.uk

22

T

his month we met up with Jo Mason from Perfect Petz and Polish to find out a bit more about her business.

Jo is based in Hitchin and has had animals all of her life, as an animal lover she thought she would take this passion and start a business. Perfect Petz and Polish started in September 2009 and provides pet and house sitting and a dog walking service across all of the villages covered by Village Life.

With the holidays coming up, rather than book your pets in to kennels, Jo will visit your home and look after your pets while you are away. She can either stay at your house or visit each day to feed and walk your dogs for an agreed period of time. Jo is happy to provide one off or regular dog walking and feeding and also offers a domestic house cleaning service.

Jo is fully insured and happy to provide references, she offers a very friendly and personable service.

Perfect Petz and Polish 01462 850 161 or 07917 866 840

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

JULY 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

367 PERFECT PETZ & POLISH House sitting & Pet sitting Book NOW for your holiday Also - Regular and one off dog walking & pet feeding while you are at work or away Domestic house cleaning Very friendly, personal - affordable prices Fully insured and references available

Call Jo for prices and information on 01462 850161 - 07917 866840

erfect Petz QP 0510.indd 1

JULY 2010

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.

Salon 367 18:02 QP 0710.indd 1 19/04/2010

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

UNISEX SALON

SALON

28/06/2010 10:01

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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

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

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

JULY 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

JULY 2010

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

Village Tree Services

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

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

SHIRON DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

Tel: 01438 720304

Mobile: 07739 922493

hiron Domestic QP 0310.indd 1

Village Tree Services

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

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



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

Village Tree Services 0310 QP.indd 1 25/02/2010 12:34

22/02/2010 13:46

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory p

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

JULY 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

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

Firebreather

LIMO

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

  

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

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

16 The UltimateBus Seater Partyrts as The Party staboard soon as you

J M FLATLEY COMPLETE KITCHEN BATHROOM WARDROBE FITTING SERVICE · Worktop Replacements · Design Service · Supply & Fit or Fit Only

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.

Contact Joe on 07768 618 911 or e-mail 0845 643 6920 To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call Melanie on 01438 216 950 25 www.firebreatherlimo.com joeflatmajor@hotmail.com JULY 2010

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

What’s on in July

Saturday 17th July Codicote Village Day Codicote Sports Field from 1pm. For more information visit www.codicoteparish.net

Sunday 18th July 2010, 12pm till 8pm

Family Fun Day at the White Horse in Kimpton Come along for our “Family Fun Day” on the 18th July to help raise money for Great Ormond Street. It is free to come along and there will be lots of activities for the whole family including bands and a disco, bouncy castle, face painting and much more. Do try to come along and support this local event.

If you would like to get involved and help to raise money for Great Ormond Street please call Janet on 01438 832307, 22 High Street, Kimpton, Herts SG4 8RJ

Sunday 18th July 2010, 11am – 5 pm Pre’50 American Auto Club ‘Rally of the Giants’ at Knebworth House All the great American classic cars as seen on film and TV. This club rally has restoration. workshops, spares for sale, concours, plus tools and accessories, books and literature, arena commentary and autojumble. Adults: £8.00 senior citizens: £8.00, children: £8.00, family ticket (4 persons): £28.00. dmission also includes entry to the park and gardens

Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th July Rhythms of the World at Hitchin Festival of world music - it’s about us, our local community, coming together to celebrate our diverse local and world cultures – and it’s us, people from the local community who organise it because we think it’s a good thing! The festival is held in the parkland of Hitchin Priory. For more information www.rotw.org.uk

Sunday 25th July 2.30pm Walk This Way at Shaw’s Corner Using Shaw’s last published book, A Rhyming Guide to Ayot St. Lawrence, we take you on a stroll with a difference, seeing the village through Shaw’s eyes. Please wear appropriate clothing for the weather and shoes suitable for walking one to two miles. Meet at the car park. Adult £8.50, child £5, booking essential on 01438 829221.

28

Take a Break…

MISSING LINK Find the missing word that inks each pair for example (TOFFEE – APPLE – PIE). The first letter of each link word will spell out a travel location.

MEAT DOG RED GHOST BLACK PULL FISH

BET OUT CAMP SPOTTER CAP TAKE INCOME

July Crossword

Summer Party! Organised by The Hitchin Girls Friends of the School Association The Coalhouse Walker Band, Hitchin Girls School Hall. £12.50 per adult, £ 7.50 per child (includes a Ploughman’s Supper).

Licensed bar selling wines, lagers, ales & soft drinks. A lively evening, guaranteed to get you in the Summer Mood! Ticket order deadline - 7th July 2010. To purchase contact Mrs Hammond Tel: 01462 442186

SODUKU

Saturday 10th July 2010, 7.30pm ‘til late

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

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

JULY 2010

VILLAGE LIFE

Fun Day at the White Horse Kimpton 18th July 2010 • 12pm-8pm Live Bands • Disco playing 60s, 70s and 80s music Bouncy castle • Face painting • Tombola • Raffle • BBQ Lots more fun and games for all the family Free Entry and proceeds from the day will be going to the Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity.

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

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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