Village Life (Hitchin) July 2011

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Lifestyle | Business | Community www.villagelifemag.com

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ISSUE 24: July 2011

The Rusty Gun Food Review

STOPPING AT THE STATION TENTERFIELD NURSERY

PLUS

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

The Car Agents provide a unique service to help clients buy and sell Prestige and Sports cars. Through extensive advertising, marketing initiatives, network of industry contacts and experience, they can save time, money, inconvenience and give the all important security to a transaction.

The Car Agents was setup by Simon Michell who has had a successful career in this market place spanning 25 years. Simon was the Sales Director of Specialist Cars Group for a number of years, where his commitment to customer service and personal approach saw the business grow year on year to become one of the best dealerships in the country. He has earned a reputation as someone to do business with and offers a service level that is unusual in the motor trade. Simon comments, ‘’ We are a service provider not a car dealer, our aim is to advise and help clients buy and sell their cars, knowing the fact that they are getting a full package of services that they should expect.”

There are three key areas where The Car Agents can help clients; Sell Your Car For You: No Advertising Costs, No Inconvienience, Secure Transaction, Fixed Fee. Buy Your Next Car For You: Personal Service, Get The Vehicle You Want, Trade Savings, Fixed Fee. Just Buy Your Car: 24 Hour Transaction Guarantee, Secure Payment, Confidential Service. ‘’Simon and his team did everything they said they would. Not only did my new car arrive on time, but they also called me back when I wanted them to and updated me regularly, which is unusual for this industry. I will use them again and tell my friends and work colleagues.’’ Kevin Neal, MD of KNA Group.

If you would like to find out more about buying or selling your next sports or prestige car, you can contact Simon on 07824 600769, email info@thecaragents.com or by visiting www.thecaragents.com

www.thecaragents.com

WELCOME

July brings the start of the school holidays, let’s hope the rain disappears so the children can get out in the garden and burn off their excess energy! Well worth a visit this month is Codicote Village day held on Saturday the 16th July.

This month is our 2nd Birthday and our 24th edition; we would like to thank all of our advertisers and everyone that has supported us over the last 2 years. It has been a real pleasure being involved with the local community and working with local businesses.

In addition to our regular features in this issue, you will find write ups on 3 pub / restaurants in the local area which are all worth a visit this

CALL US: 01438 216950

Summer!

EMAIL US: mail@villagelifemag.com

Bye for now

Jose & Melanie

Contents 4:

Local news

6:

Wellbeing: Marilyn Tuck – Teachers and stress

8:

Local Business Feature:The Rusty Gun Food Review

VISIT US AND READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE: www.villagelifemag.com

10: Local Community Feature: Tenterfield Nursery & Children’s Centre

TNTERFIELD page 10

THE STATION. page 21

12:

Business: Are your books and records in good shape?

18:

Business Feature: Stagg Property Services

20-21: Local Business Feature:The Station Knebworth 26:

What’s on in July/Take a break

Where Can You Find Village Life?

Village Life Magazine has a readership of 15,000 people and is delivered to 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.

July 2011

Editorial & advertising enquiries Melanie Saavedra 01438 216950 sales@villagelifemag.com Village Life is published monthly by MJS Publishing.

01438 216950, www.villagelifemag.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

3

LOCAL NEWS

BULLS RUN RAMPAGE IN VILLAGE

CODICOTE VILLAGE DAY 2011

Residents in Hitchin were “astonished” to see a couple of bulls rampaging through the town in the early hours of Sunday morning last month.

The animals were spotted running down Cambridge Road after escaping from a nearby field. They were also seen in the nearby Anchor Pub car park and play ground. A spokesman from Herts Police said that two cars were sent out to the incident. She added: “We had a report from a member of the public that at least three bullocks had escaped and were wandering on Willian Road and Purwell Lane. We did some research and found the owner who went out to deal with the situation.”

Wareside Wines Winners Congratulations to Jannette Burt from Old Welwyn and Vicky Nash from Codicote who both won a bottle of wine from the Wareside Wines competition in the May edition.

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Codicote will be hosting its spectacular Annual Village Day on Saturday 16 July 2011. Codicote Village Day is a non-profit organization that runs a fun day and procession in Codicote once a year. The whole day is a vehicle for other local organizations and Charities to raise money whilst giving the local community a spectacular day of fun.

The theme this year will be “Horror, Monsters & Spooks.” which will be reflected in the participating floats and walkers in the Village Day parade. Attractions this year include a Farmers Market, Dance and Gymnastic displays, the local Pony Club and much, much more. The fun starts at 1.00 pm with the Village Day Parade arriving at the Sports field for the traditional “Best Float” competition and the Grand Opening. The High St and Bury lane will be closed to traffic from 12:15pm midday until 2:00pm on Saturday 17th July this year. The procession including floats will assemble in the High St leading down from the opening and begin its procession to the Recreation Grounds at the top of Bury Lane at 1:30pm A full afternoons entertainment is in store, in addition to the wide variety of stalls and activities including wandering Samba performers, there is a full program of performances on the main arena which will include Floats/Parade Judging, Baby Judging, Lauras Street Dancers, a Magic Show, Enfield scouts, Codicote School Maypole/Morris Dancing, Majorettes and a Helicopters Demonstration.

There will be a lot of stalls with something for everyone such as Tombola, local produce with homemade cakes and treats, a tea tent, Down a pint served in the Sports and social club, local arts and crafts and lots of charity fundraising efforts. A wide variety of local groups and organisations will be set up on the day.

This is a fantastic day out for all the family and is supporting great local causes!

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

July 2011

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WELLBEING

Teachers and stress

In the run up to year end I have noticed an influx of teachers with accumulated stress conditions. There is just so much paperwork and planning and activities and pressure and responsibilities faced by teachers today, and despite the term breaks they are expected to attend meetings, and prepare for next term, during them. Some are even studying further as well.

M

ost of those I see love their job, but it is getting the better of them.They are plodding on, with a stiff upper lip, not wanting to take time off because it will impact their good attendance record.They see me in private preferring to keep it quiet.

So many teachers suffer tenseness in their shoulders, arms and hands, anxiety in their stomachs, and tight 6

chests. Shallow breathing is a classic sign of tension. At home signs of stress are irritability, complete tiredness, or lack of sleep, worries during the night, aches and pains, panic attacks, emotional outbursts, lack of sex drive. Many grind their teeth, many get IBS (a classic sign of stress), while others get irritable, and others are even depressed. Stress needs to be

addressed or it turns into nasties like long term chronic illnesses and cancers.

At school a stressed teacher will cover this up, after all they have a job, some teachers don’t. Health is not discussed in depth, they grit their teeth and carry on, as they always have. There is too much else to do and think about, and besides, you don’t admit defeat, blot your copy book, by admitting it is difficult to cope, by admitting that you are on medication, such as anti depressants.

School budgets now include provision for dealing with stress and sickness. Like all businesses, if someone is off sick the school has to use up precious money to pay them, as well as their replacement.

Double pay for one job. It is in the schools best interests to nip stress in the bud, to look after their teachers.Yet, it is up to the teachers to admit that they need that help, that they are not superhuman. Many still do not.

I am on the school supply list, a supplier of stress relief to schools who wish to get their teachers back in the classroom as quickly as possible. Whether they come via their school, or by themselves, this work is very confidential, yet targeted. It has an empowering effect and teachers can relate to it well. They have amazing inner resources of durability and positivity and I work with these to get the change they need. It is a combined effort for their benefit.

It is quite likely others in similar professions can relate to this, nurses and healthcare workers, too. If this resonates with you come and deal with it, the sooner you look after yourself the better.

Marilyn Tuck, 07962 811907 www.marilyntuck.co.uk

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

July 2011

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20/01/2011 10:09 7

FOOD REVIEW

The Rusty Gun It was a busy Tuesday evening when we eagerly returned to the Rusty Gun to sample their new Taster Menu – an eight course feast! We were welcomed by Assistant manager Chris who showed us to our table and talked us through the dishes that we were about to experience.

T

he first course - Rusty Gun Sausage Rolls were bursting with flavour in lovely crispy soft pastry. Next was a Canapé of Ham, Egg and Chips which was well presented and offered a combination of flavours.The following dish was Pan Fried Curried Scallops with Cauliflower Puree & Lime Pickle, the scallops melted in the mouth and the Cauliflower puree was delicious.

The next dish was Cold Pressed Fois Gras with Cashew Nuts & Quince. I am a big fan of Fois Gras and this dish did not disappoint with a delicious texture and flavour.

A refreshing Lemon Sorbet with Apple & Ginger Snow was served next and this really was a treat.The tasty Sorbet came with a lemon froth with ginger crystallised which melted in the mouth like Snow.

We then moved in to another course, Norfolk Duck with Sweet Potato, Mango, Bok Choi, Soya &

Chilli.The dish offered Duck breast and leg portions which were really tender and fell apart in the mouth. I hadn’t experienced Bok Choi before but it was a tasty vegetable and along with the Potato Puree it perfectly complimented the Duck.

We then had the optional cheese board with Brie, Stilton and Smoked Cheddar with biscuits which was a good portion size and well worth the additional £5.

The final dish was theTaste of Rusty Gun Deserts offering a sweet selection including Fruit Salad, Pistachio Crème Brule with Pistachio Ice Cream, Lemon Cheese Cake with Raspberry Compote, a Chocolate Brownie and Raspberry Jelly.This was a desert lovers dream!

I have to say this was a wonderful experience; we absolutely loved the variety of food offered with theTaster Menu and we went home full, but for me the fact that we spent two and half hours talking and enjoying the

experience made it a wonderful evening.

The Taster Menu is excellent value at £35 or £40 with the cheeseboard option, it is a very sociable way of enjoying fine dining and I would highly recommend trying it with friends for a fantastic evening out!

The Rusty Gun also has two other menus which regularly change to keep the dining experience fresh and enjoyable.

COMPETITION To win a Taster Meal for two simply tell us how many courses we enjoyed.

Email your answer and contact details to: mail@villagelifemag.com The Rusty Gun London Rd, St Ippolyts.

Herts, SG4 7PG 01462 432 653 www.therustygun.co.uk

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

July 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

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Welwyn’s brand new dental practice ‘Neel Dentistry’ is now open. We offer a wide variety of general and cosmetic dentistry – such as teeth whitening, veneers, implants and smile makeovers.

Is your routine check up due? Maybe you would like a second opinion? We are here to help.

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

17/06/2011 08:409

STEPPING LOCAL COMMUNITY BACK IN TIME FEATURE

Tenterfield Nursery

T

enterfield is both a Nursery School providing free places for 3 and 4 year olds and a Sure Start funded Children’s Centre for families with children 0 to 5 years old in Welwyn, Codicote, Digswell and the Ayots. The Children’s Centre offers a range of activities for parents and children ranging from Baby Rhyme Time and Baby Massage, to Mother and Toddler groups and a group for Dads (Saturdads).

The Nursery also offers a holiday club for children from 3 to 8 years old and is currently running a Forest School Club where the children visit the woodland area at the local primary school for fun outdoor activities.

The Nursery offers the 15 hours free entitlement and a wraparound service is available from 7.30am to 6.00pm where parents can pay for additional sessions. Children can start at the nursery the term after they turn 3. There is a breakfast club for children attending the Nursery and also for those attending Welwyn St Mary’s Primary School, where they will be taken over to the school via the walking bus.

Inside there are four spacious rooms offering varied activities for the children. There is a lot of outside space which is really well resourced with a huge garden area and an allotment offering unlimited opportunities for learning and fun all year round. Children are also taken out in the local community to places such as the local library, the fire station and the local church for harvest festival.

Head Teacher Hannah Isher told

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us, “Staff are committed to ensuring that every child at Tenterfield has their needs met as an individual. We strive to provide an environment in which all children will feel secure, valued and supported as they develop confidence in their own abilities. There is a close partnership with parents and the local community. I would be very happy for people to visit the Nursery for a tour to meet the staff and see the nursery in action. If you have a child who is currently under 3 you can put their name on the waiting list.”

The Nursery has recently had an Ofsted inspection and was rated as outstanding in all areas, a huge achievement! The report commented,” Tenterfield is an outstanding school. The head teacher’s drive for excellence is shared by staff and governors” “children have access to large

learning areas which provide a vast array of carefully planned, stimulating and rich activities” There is a Free Family Fun Day at Tenterfield (organised by the children’s centre) on Saturday 9th July and there will be the opportunity to find out what is available for your family in the local area. On Saturday 10th September it will be the 70th Anniversary of Tenterfield where anyone who has had a connection with Tenterfield can enjoy a nostalgia trip looking at photographs and sharing memories from the last 70 years.

Tenterfield Nursery School and Children’s Centre London Road, Welwyn, Herts, AL6 9JF Tel: 01438 714564 www.tenterfield.herts.sch.uk

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

July 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

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

17/06/2011 11:5911

BUSINESS

Are your Books and Records in Good Shape?

Adam Fernandes from WKH Chartered Accountants gives essential advice...

A

lot of SMEs underestimate the importance of good bookkeeping! If a business has good books it can: • Provide you with up to date information • Improve your financial management • Improve and clarify your cashflow • Reduce your risk of bad debt • Save accountancy fees • Save you time and money • Help you grow your business It is estimated that 40% of SMEs have “poor bookkeeping” which equates to estimated tax losses to HMRC of £2m!

Therefore HMRC have stated that they will be increasing their investigations into thousands of businesses, weighted towards targeting cash businesses, such as shops, pubs and clubs, as well as trades such as builders, plumbers and electricians. Investigations are picked at random so no matter what business you are in, you need to ensure your books are in good order to ensure you satisfy HMRC requirements. Remember it is your responsibility to prove to them they are, it is not HMRC’s responsibility to prove they are not!

HMRC now has the power to visit your business premises with just 7 days notice.They will physically check your books and records to ensure there is a record of income and expenditure which is correctly and accurately recorded.Would you be ready for a visit from HMRC?

So what can you do?

Tax investigation cover is always advisable; you wouldn’t leave your house or car uninsured, so why would you not insure your business? Investigations can cost thousands of pounds in accountancy fees, so for the comparatively small price of insurance to cover you, it should be a no brainer for any business!

As far as bookkeeping is concerned, there are various tools out there ranging from sophisticated accounts packages such as Sage, right down to a bespoke excel cashbook. Each business is different and will have specific needs in so far as what books need to be kept.

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

17/03/2011July 13:21 2011

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

13/04/2011 14:0013

VILLAGE LIFE

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19/11/2010 12:48

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

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16/12/2010July 09:47 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

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

13/04/2011 14:2615

The Newly reopened

Bell Motel

New A-la carte Menu including...

ed Potato Salad Confit of Duck & crush d Black Cherry finished with herb oil an Compote on Crisp Potato 10oz Fillet Steak sat up ic Sauce Diane Rosti finished with Class d with buttery Oven baked loin of Co sauce mash finished with clam topped with sweet Pan Seared Sea Bass sauté garlic baked chilli tiger prawns and potatoes Cheesecakes Lemon and Ginger Nut Cafe Gourmand – rich espresso a trio of deserts with a

Quote ‘Village Life’ to get a FREE bottle of wine with every meal for two at

Chimes Restaurant

Home Made Fresh Food • Large Garden • Children Welcome New Play Area Coming Soon! • Dogs Welcome • Free Wifi 25 Refurbished En-suite Rooms

Forthcoming Events...

July 16th – Codicote Village Day • Bouncy Castle • Outside Bar

HOG ROAST from 3pm

• Children’s Entertainer • Live Music – The Substitutes

July 23rd – Official Re-launch Party • Outside Bar • Hog Roast / BBQ • Jimmy Jones

• Face Painting • Steve Curtis 6pm – 8.30pm • Live Music

August Bank Holiday Weekend • Beer & Cider Festival • Band – Endless Summer

Beer & Cider Festival

• Bouncy Castle • BBQ

Other Events Sat 6th Aug – The Duvets (Covers)

Sat 10th Sept – Scratchplate Reloaded Disco

Sat 20th Aug – 3 Way split (60s to present day)

Sat 17th Sept – Leech (Rock)

Sat 27th Aug – Endless Summer (Covers)

Sat 24th Sept – Scally Wags (Easy Listening)

Sat 3rd Sept – Just4Kicks (Rock & Roll)

The Bell Motel, 65 High Street, Codicote, Hertfordshire, SG4 8XD 01438 821600 enquiries@bellmotel.co.uk www.bellmotel.co.uk

BUSINESS FOCUS

Stagg celebrate a decade in business

S

tagg Property Services will be celebrating ten years in business in July. Neil Stagg started from very small beginnings with two employees carrying out plumbing and heating works for the residential market but over the years he increased the number of blue chip clients.

Reinvestment in resources such as personnel and assets has resulted in a compact firm which is continuing to grow at a pace it is comfortable with and can maintain its high quality of service to the increasing number of corporate clients.

Based in Welwyn village, Stagg Property Services carries a full team of qualified and specialised staff to offer a fully comprehensive plumbing and heating and drainage team quickly and efficiently with the minimum of disturbance, whether it’s residential or commercial.This allows clients to deal with one firm rather than a myriad of tradesmen to carry out specific tasks.Their projects range from refurbishments of bathrooms to full central heating systems.They also carry out sewer investigations, repairs and renewals.Their maintenance contracts have included domestic and commercial plumbing repairs and renewals.

Stagg Property’s commitment to Health and Safety is paramount and their recent accreditation with Safecontractor is indicative of this.Their target is to continue their accident free environment whilst still offering quality of work at a reasonable price.Their accreditation with ISO9001 in December 2007 is a testament to their seriousness of offering a service they are happy to be audited on.

“Stagg Property Services carried out the work efficiently and on time.Their health and safety paperwork and methodology was good and we would use them again.“ “ Their service and workmanship is of a very good standard. All of their employees are very friendly, easy to work with, always turn up on time and are happy to help.

“We would be pleased to recommend them as we have not found any fault with their work and service.”

For a free no-obligation quote, call Neil Stagg on 01438 712712

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July 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

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Plant Watering Grocery Shopping Pet Feeding Dog Walking Collecting Prescriptions Cleaning / Housekeeping

Going on holiday or away for the weekend?

Cressida is a friendly person offering an affordable approach to household and pet care solutions along with other services including: PA / Admin / Sales – A helping hand to sort out your personal affairs or small business

Popsie’s Pantry

Home cooked meals for you, your family, guests and small dinner parties.

For further information or specific enquiries, please get in touch.

All jobs are attended to personally, professionally and priced individually — references available on request.

Call Cressida on (mobile) 07876 101490 or email: cressida_lewis@msn.com 0511.indd 1 JulyCressi's 2011 Chores & Paws and Pantry HP Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

12/04/2011 13:55 19

LOCAL BUSINESS FEATURE

All stop at The Station

T

he Station Knebworth is under new management with a fresh focus on providing a family feel with great food. Peter and Kim with their two daughters (one of them is just 2 weeks old!) would like to welcome you to the

new Station Knebworth.

Peter comes from a Corporate background and has experience of delivering excellent customer service to organisations, Kim has a background in Leisure and Tourism and has run hotels and pubs all over the country including Davys of London in Canary Wharf. Kim and Peter decided to leave London to bring up their family in a warm village environment and saw the Station as the perfect opportunity.They felt that the Station just needed some TLC with outstanding service in order to make it a great family destination. From meeting Australian Kim and South African Peter, their Antipodean Southern 20

Hemisphere Hospitality shines through. I could see how passionate they are about making the Station a success and they genuinely believe in what they do!

Kim told us,�We are here all the time and like to treat people as if they are a guest in our living room. It is important for us to offer the personal family touch so you feel as if you are visiting friends when you come to the Station.We are keen to get involved with the local community in this beautiful village!�

There are some fantastic dishes on the menu with

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

July 2011

LOCAL BUSINESS FEATURE

starters such as West Country Crab Cakes in Coriander Breadcrumbs, Oven-baked Camembert and a Burger Board for two to share.The Main dishes include Roast BeefYorkshire Pudding Wrap,Traditional Beef Lasagne and their highly popular Hand-battered Halloumi.There are some scrumptious Puddings on offer such as Sticky Dark Chocolate & Walnut Brownie and a Pub Pudding Board, perfect for sharing!You can enjoy some seasonal specials such as Sweet Potato, Apricot, Chickpea & Red Pepper Kebabs, Chicken, Chorizo and Red Pepper Salad and a Warmed Shredded Duck & Hoisin Salad. Monday to Friday you can enjoy 2 Meals for £8.95 all day including dishes like Hunters Chicken, 10 oz Gammon Steak and Beef Lasagne.

There is a ‘small plate’ menu offering smaller versions of various dishes starting at just £3.45. (Perfect for younger or older diners). OAP’s can also enjoy discounted meals on a Monday.

There is a great selection of wines starting at just £8.95 for a bottle of Red Santa Carolina Merlot or White Santa Carolina Chardonnay.There is also a fantastic Summer of Sauvignon Promotion running offering some great discounted premium Sauvignon wines.You can enjoy a selection of draft beers including San Miguel, Staropramen, Becks Vier, Fosters and Carlsberg.There is a great selection of Real Ales such as IPA and regular guest ales July 2011

such as Old Trip and seasonal favourites such as Rocking Rudolph at Christmas and Gangly Ghoul for Halloween.

You will even find the IPA served from a revolution font which offers either a South pour, a clean crisp pint with a hoppier finishand loose frothy head or a North pour, a smooth creamy pint with a tight head. They are planning a Brewer’s Evening where a local brewer will come in to meet the for a chat over a pint.There is a good selection of Ciders available including a low alcohol option and the new Stella Artois Cidre.You will also find a good stock of minerals and soft drinks.

The Station is dog friendly and there is a large outside area and beer garden, with a big petanque pitch with 4 league teams meeting regularly. Anyone can come and play petanque and if they really enjoy it then consider joining the team.There is a Quiz night every Thursday and on the 23rd July there will be a family fun day with bouncy castles and lots of fun for all the family.

The Station is a big venue and has a lot of potential. I would highly recommend popping in to see the changes and to meet the lovely Kim and Peter. Next month we pop back to sample the food!

The Station, Knebworth 1 Station Approach, Knebworth. SG3 6AT 01438 812 224

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

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

Bide-A-While

RESIDENTIAL CARE HOME Bide-A-While is a small, family run Residential Care Home in Stevenage providing day, evening and respite care for the elderly.

Warm, relaxed family atmosphere En-suite rooms Fresh, daily prepared meals Baths, showers, hairdressing and chiropody available Range of activities: Keep Fit, Arts & Crafts, Music and Quizzes Highly trained, friendly staff Transport service available

Call now on 01438 220500 to arrange a visit or enquire about availability.

Email: enquiries@bide-a-while.co.uk Website: www.bide-a-while.co.uk 22 Bide a While 0511 HP.indd 1

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

13/04/2011July 15:04 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

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 David Thomas Garages HP 1110.indd 1

21/10/2010 10:46

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 House HP 0411.indd 1 July Mill 2011

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

18/03/2011 10:3823

VILLAGE LIFE

28 24

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

July 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

Village Tree Services Village Tree Services

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

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

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

FENCING

lage Tree Services 0310 QP.indd 1

Chez Jerome

22/02/2010 13:46

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory please call Melanie on 01438 216 950 23

French Contemporary Restaurant Now in the Good Food Guide 2011

SN MAINTENANCE

All Your Fencing Needs Supplied & Fitted

Chez Jerome is a family-run French restaurant and is the first eatery in Dunstable to be named in the Good Food Guide for almost 40 years.

Free Estimates Council Approved Hedge Cutting Garden Maintenance Friendly & Reliable Service

Local Gem and serving French Contemporary cuisine, the menu offers robust and inventive classics, best produced locally and seasonal.

Call Simon on 07971 860 135 / 01707 326 366

26 Church Street, Dunstable, Bedfordshire. LU5 4RU Tel: 01582 603310 or email us: info@chezjerome.co.uk Visit: www.chezjerome.co.uk

July 2011

Chez Jerome

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

25

VILLAGE LIFE

What’s on in July Sunday 17 July, British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin, Herts, SG4 9TS Teddy Bears’ Picnic, 2.30pm-4pm.

Take a Break…

CROSSWORD

A popular fun event for children! Bring a teddy for a visit and join in the fun. Admission £4.50 adults; £2 children; Family Ticket - £12 – free drink and a cake for children. Tel 01462 429244

Thursday 14 July to Saturday 16 July On a lighter note at Woodside Hall, Hitchin, SG4 9SP Hitchin Thespians present a concert of Light Music ranging from Straus to Disney including selections of Beatles and ABBA tunes alongside songs from many stage shows and films.Nightly at 7:45 pm Tickets £8.50 Available from: - Hitchin Town Centre Initiative, the Churchyard, Hitchin or from Hitchin Thespians on 01462 641575 or by Email ’Boxoffice@ hitchinthespians.co.uk’

Sunday 17 July at St Pauls Walden Bury Bury Fun Day An afternoon packed full of fun and entertainment to raise awareness and funds for Dementia UK plus financial support for the local PTA’s of Whitwell, Preston, Breachwood Green and Corkernhoe.

BBQ, refreshments, tombola, children’s entertainment, variety of craft stalls plus performances from four children’s school choirs and Village Voices plus much more. Entrance is £5.00 per adult and all accompanied children go free.

Saturday 23 July Battle of the Proms – Hatfield House Hatfield House invite you to join us in summer 2011 for the ultimate proms in the park: an exceptional celebration of soul-stirring classical music with breathtaking displays, hampers, champers, and an electric atmosphere with flag waving and singing under the stars! From 4pm – 10.30pm Contact 01432 355416 or www.battleproms.com

Sat 23 July –Sun 24 July 2.30pm-4.00pm Roman Activity Days at Welwyn Roman Baths, Welwyn Bypass, Welwyn, AL6 9FG Try on a toga and tour the remains of our Roman bath house. A fun filled weekend of Roman themed craft activities for children. For further info call Jenny Oxley on 01707 271362

ACROSS 1. emphasis (6) 5. lack (6) 8. way (4) 9. relief (8) 10. example (8) 11. reed instrument (4) 12. top of foot (6) 14. fishes through hole in ice (6) 16. bean curd (4) 18. senescence (8) 20. going great guns (4,2,2) 21. merely (4) 22. acid (6) 23. Spanish sprite (6)

DOWN 2. climber’s footwear (7) 3. set of values (5) 4. pliable when heated (13) 5. impartial (13) 6. arresting hold (7) 7. dance (5) 13. lightning sound (7) 15. made way by force (7) 17. giraffid mammal (5) 19. lasso (5)

SUDOKU

Sunday 24 July, 10:30am-12:00pm Walk this Way at Shaw’s Corner, Ayot St Lawrence, near Welwyn, AL6 9BX A National Trust Event: 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. Paths are unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Contact Sue Morgan 01438 820307.

Adult:£8.75 Child:£5.25. Gates open:10:15. Last entry:10:30. Booking Essential 01438 829221.

Friday 29 July – Sunday 31 July Sonisphere Festival at Knebworth House One of the biggest annual rock festivals. visit www.sonispherefestivals. com for further information.

GET YOUR EVENT LISTED FOR FREE HERE, EMAIL: mail@villagelifemag.com or call us on 01438 216 950 26

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

July 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

Rabley Tree Care Rabley Tree Care Rabley

EXTREME WINDOW CLEANING SERVICE

Tree Care

Our standard service includes cleaning all of your screens and window frames and wiping of all frames and sills.

Fully Insured • All areas covered We also offer Gutter Clearance Competitive prices Call Vasi now on: 07766 081657 or 01438 840811, email: info@vasilelive.co.uk or visit: www.vasilelive.co.uk

Extreme Window Cleaning QP 0511.indd 1

All Aspects of Tree and Hedge Work Undertaken Garden Maintenance Fully Qualified and Insured Call Duncan Evans on 07759 804 035 for quotes or advice

11/04/2011 17:19 Rabley QP 0711.indd 1

Garra Rufa Fish pedicures now available in Kimpton Dip your feet in to a spa where Garra Rufa Fish (known as Doctor Fish) will nibble away at dead skin, enabling healthy skin to grow and giving you a relaxing treatment for your feet.

20 mins for £10 • 30 mins for 2 sharing £28

Call Michelle now to book on 01438 833468 or 07879 417 295 46a, High St, Kimpton, Herts, SG4 8RN July 2011

herts build

17/06/2011 11:11

A complete service for all your home improvement and maintenance projects.

• Fitting a new kitchen, bathroom or cloakroom • Painting and decorating • Tiling • Plumbing and electrical • Garage conversions • General maintenance • Fencing and patios A professional and personal service that will ensure your project is completed to the highest standards.

Contact us on: 07827 621719 Email: mail@hertsbuild.co.uk Visit: www.hertsbuild.co.uk

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 HertsBuild QP 0511.indd 1

27

15/04/2011 14:54

VILLAGE LIFE

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



Shiron Domestic QP 0310.indd 1

25/02/2010 12:34

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

• • •

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

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

 28

Wasps

Rats ~ Mice ~ Ants ~ Rabbits ~ Moles Squirrels ~ Foxes ~ Birds ~ Moths ~ Flies

Mobile: 07890 131174 Telephone: 01767 315101 www.shirespestcontrol.co.uk

National Pest Technicians Association

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

July 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

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

   Do you feel overweight or want to improve your fitness but don’t like the idea of going to a gym?

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

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

• Free Consultation • 25% off first session with this advert Professional, friendly, personal training in the comfort of your own home!

CW Personal Training



Call Chris on 07500 897 854 or email: cwpt35@yahoo.co.uk



For Specialist Matrimonial Advice

JCS SOLICITORS

A Personal Trainer maybe just the answer and it doesn’t have to be expensive.

JD Plastering

Chris Wilson PT QP 0711.indd 1

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

14/06/2011 18:57

Clean, Reliable Plasterers with over 20 years experience

Jason Dimmock 07775 668 481 01582 724761 12 Whittingham Close 25 Luton, Bedfordshire. LU2 9UR

www.jcssolicitors.co.uk To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call Melanie on 01438 216 950 Hill House, 1 St Albans Rd, Codicote, Herts, SG4

July 2011

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

29

SHOWCASE

Peony Florist

COMPUTER PROBLEMS

Want to kick your computer?

Specialising in wedding flowers, beautiful, stylish flowers tailored to suit the bride, her dress and the wedding venue. For a free consultation call Lotty.

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

Telephone: 01438 821 888 121 high Street, Codicote www.peonyflorist.co.uk

Telephone: 07889 056172 michael.ray@codicoteonline.co.uk

Plumbing and 10/05/2010 Tiling Services

odicote Online 0610.indd 1

From small plumbing repairs to full bathroom refits Trustworthy and Reliable Please call Darren for Plumbing requirements on: Mob:07717 441413 Tiling enquiries call Paul on: Mob 07531 451255

To The Roof

TV Aerials and Satellite dishes installed by CAI Certified, fully insured TV Engineer.

TV / DAB Aerial installations, Sky Setup / upgrades / multiroom / remote extenders, Freesat systems, Foreign channels etc...

01462 811 150 07595 985 025 www.totherooftvaerials.co.uk

SUE ELMES

Michael Shelley

18:41

Electrical

DRESS MAKER & ALTERATION SPECIALIST

Qualified Electrician

“No job too small” Tel: 01438 820 820

Mobile: 07930 243651 Email: michael.shelley@live.co.uk A member of ElecSa

Gas Safe Registered

I.B HYDE & SON

Friendly Professional Service 01920 830 300 or 07973 149 520

MATHS AND SCIENCE TUITION

Sue Elmes SHWC 0511.indd 1

All Types Of Plastering 35 Year Est. Family Business Internal & External Walls & Ceilings Skimmed Renovation - Lime Mortar Rendering, Pebble Dashing 01582 725266 or 07774 790400

QUALIFIED FEMALE TEACHER & HERTS COUNTY TRAINED TUTOR. ANY AGE UP TO GCSE. FROM £20-£30ph.

Call: 07861 371 677

12/04/2011 14:4

www.markwatersphotography.com Local, familiar scenes, beautifully captured.

Available for commission. Tel: 07796 544 683

Wedding Disco Specialists

Orlando Villa Near Disney

4 Bedrooms (Sleeps 8), 3 Baths, Pool, Internet, lake view. www.hibiscusfloridavilla.com from £400/week Telephone: 07831 354322 30

Call Jose on 01438 220 558 07734 387 478 www.mjsevents.com

Tailored Wedding Discos providing the perfect end to your day.

• Pre-event meeting • Large Music Collection • State-of-the-Art Sound & Light Show • Background Music throughout the day • Ceremony Music • Can act as your MC • Wireless Mircophones for Speeches • Not an agency

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

July 2011

ACOLINE WATER SOFTENERS FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED 1982

Our Non Electric Water Softeners That Serve Any Size Family & Fit Under The Sink, Use Blocks Of Salt (See Insert Picture)...

Its Simply Child's Play (From the manufacturers that Pioneered the block salt softener)

• • • • • •

Non Electric Uses Up To 60% Less Salt 7 Year Guarantee Purchase Or Lease Rental Free Salt Delivery We Repair All Makes Of Water Softeners

01462 811487 1 New Road, Clifton, Shefford, Beds, SG17 5JH

www.acolinesofteners.co.uk

Try our FREE online quoter