Village Life (Hitchin)

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Lifestyle | Business | Community www.villagelifemag.com

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ISSUE 20: MARCH 2011

RECIPE OF THE MONTH:

Moules Marinière Getting to grips with Clay

Make a visit to wonderful Wales

PLUS ACTIVITIES FOR OVER 50s

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

R E S TAU R A N T “The presentation and attention to detail in Liam’s cooking was amazing, the classic French dishes with a rustic twist are a winning formula, coupled with the outstanding service we received made the evening a memorable one.”

As reviewed by Village Life in February 2011.

EARLY BIRD MENU

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65 High Street, Codicote, SG4 8XD Reservations: 01438 821 600 Email: saveurcodicote@gmail.com

SAVEUR VOUCHER

Complementary bottle of house wine on presentation of this voucher with any two course meal for two (excludes Sunday lunch).

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until 30th April 2011

WELCOME

The evenings have been getting lighter and the weather a little warmer as March officially brings the end to winter and the start of spring, we have already seen some of our spring bulbs popping up and a few crocus flowers. Remember to set your clocks back an hour on the 27th March. This month we have a new recipe feature starting along with lots of other content for you to enjoy.

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.

Finally we are looking for a sales person to join us, see the job ad on page 21.

Bye for now

Jose & Melanie

CONTENTS 4:

Local news

6:

Wellbeing: Marilyn Tuck – Easier studying

12:

Handy Work: Pottery Lessons

14:

Activities: Keeping active in older age

16:

OnYour Travels:Wonderful Wales

18

RECIPE: Moules Marinière

20:

Dog Training Tips:Toilet Training

24:

Photography Tips: Composition

26:

What’s on in March/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.

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

CLAY WITH CAROL: 12

WONDERFUL WALES: 16

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

We are increasing our circulation every month, so if you didn’t receive

not endorse the products or services that appear in the magazine. Opinions expressed in

a copy through your letterbox, you will do very shortly.

the magazine do not necessarily represent those of the editor or of Village Life magazine.

MARCH 2011

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3

LOCAL NEWS

Proposed New School in Woolmer Green The villages of Knebworth, Woolmer Green, Welwyn, Datchworth, Oaklands & Codicote all benefit from outstanding primary schools however there is no secondary school in any of the villages. Due to the distances involved between the villages and the nearest existing secondary schools, most places are already allocated before a choice of schools can be considered. The result is that many families simply move away from the area in pursuit of better school options Local families have setup a campaign called “We Need A School.org” (WNAS) and several potential sites have been identified for a new secondary school. The campaign was given a boost a few weeks ago, when Education Secretary Michael Gove gave the scheme a provisional go-ahead under his Free Schools programme.

Opponents of the campaign have blasted both the Government and WNAS, for supporting what they believe is an unnecessary development in an area that already has sufficient school provision. An opposing campaign called “Save Woolmer Green” has been launched and has joined forces with another group called “Preserve Knebworth”.

They suggest the school will have to be built on Green Belt Land destroying beautiful surrounding countryside and wildlife. They also believe that the infrastructure of the local roads will not take the extra traffic from the school run.

Village Life is keen to find out more about this local story and will be contacting WNAS and Save Woolmer Green to find out more. We hope to update you with both points of view in a future edition. In the mean time, to find out more visit www.weneedaschool.org and www.woolmergreen.org.uk

Young people in Hitchin awarded funding for local projects Eight groups of lucky young people have been successful in their applications for a share of the £20,000 Hitchin Youth Spend grant at a presentation event that took place in Hitchin at the end of January.

The Hitchin Youth Spend is an initiative funded by North Herts District Council’s Hitchin Area Committee, whereby funding is available for young people with ideas for local projects. This year’s winning project was the Hitchin District Scouts Active Support Unit who requested funding for some catering equipment and a Tirfor winch for an aerial runway at larger youth events.

Other projects that were awarded some funding include Mary Exton School – basketball posts, Hitchin Youth Band – new instruments, Pirton Youth Group – installation of a zip wire at Pirton Recreation Ground, William Ransom Primary School (year 6)– playground improvements, 11th Hitchin (Christchurch) Scouts – adventure / camping equipment Purwell Primary School – outdoor gym equipment, Strathmore Infant and Nursery School – replacement of leaking canopy roof in Reception Garden.

Cllr Judi Billing said: “This is the second year of Youth Spend grants and we have had another great response from young people in Hitchin. The projects and ideas have been outstanding and a lot of hard work has been put into the applications and presentations. The young people themselves voted for the best presentations to receive the funding and it will be interesting to see how the projects develop and benefit the community.“

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

£850,000 FUNDING BID FOR HITCHIN TOWN HALL GIVEN GREEN LIGHT Hitchin Initiative’s bid for £850,000 from The Community Builders’ Fund has been given the green light. The Community Builders Funding will be used along with a £3.5million investment from North Hertfordshire District Council (NHDC) to create a new North Herts Museum and a revitalised community space for weddings, festivals and community events, along with smaller meeting rooms, all available to hire.

There will also be a café and catering facilities on site.

MARCH 2011

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WELLBEING

So, how can you get better results?

Easier studying, better results This is for those of you who are at school wanting to do better, those at college or uni, those preparing their dissertations, for those doing driving licences, and for those who care about them.

I

t doesn’t matter what age you are if you want to do better then it is possible.

And, if there is some reason you are not doing well right now then it is high time it was addressed, giving you time to focus, do the research, take in the detail, and get a good understanding in time to get consistently good marks before year end.

You may think, ‘Well, I have always worked on my assignments the night before, just made the deadline, and I haven’t done too badly.’ Well, so be it, this may not be for you. But, I challenge you

6

to think, ‘What if I had worked smarter, would I have done any better?’ How do you honestly know unless you try?

We all know how easy it is to put the study aside, be social, and to procrastinate here and there, so easy, but sooner or later the guilt sets in, and the worry, and even some stress. People around you remind you what you should, and should not, be doing, it can become a bit invasive and everyone gets touchy. I have seen students a ball of nerves around exam time, cramming reading, and last minute assignments to get done in time, working around the clock, not sleeping, eating rubbish food and drink.This does not help your brain.This is not the way to do it!

Well, perhaps it’s time to relax your brain and let the information flow in. Perhaps you can work smarter, not harder. Many people attempt to learn new information by writing notes and making lists, these are left brain activities.When you engage your right brain as well you use your brain’s full potential. It’s a bit like a computer hard drive, when entered properly the information can be filed in the right areas for easy retrieval and recall.

Using wonderful forwardlooking visualisation techniques you may have a similar experience to one of my clients who was procrastinating his MBA dissertation. In hypnosis he was able to visualise the final work and his result. Some months later he emailed that he had got within 2 marks of this and had been recommended for a distinction.

Not only that, but he wrote that he now had an interview with a well known global business, just as he had imagined in his hypnotherapy session.

The special relaxing story telling techniques I use are great for teenagers, the results show not only in their schoolwork but also in their confidence. Family dynamics very often change for the better.This could make the difference between one school/ uni/job and another, it is so worthwhile. As a past teacher I care, 2-3 sessions could be all that is needed. And, teachers, I can help reduce your stress, too.

Come and learn how.

SPECIAL RATES for those still at school.

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

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

MARCH 2011

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Village Life Editorial Page:Layout 1 17/01/2011 14:43 Page 1

ADVERTORIAL

The Best Kept Secret for a Healthier Lifestyle O

dyssey Health & Racquet Club in Knebworth has been a local, independent health club for over 25 years. If you’ve never visited the club you are missing out on the widest range of health & fitness activities in the region. It really is the best kept secret.

Alongside the expected gym, which is very well equipped and spacious, you also have tennis, squash, badminton, yoga, pilates, powerplate, 7 treatment room spa, creche and the largest private swimming pool in the area.

Boot Camp

large selection of treatments to cater for every need, performed by highly trained therapists “The past twelve months have seen fantastic additions to the treatment menu. We have launched with Elemis, dermalogica, CACI, GELeration, Fake Bake, Lash Perfect and we’ve just launched a brand new make-up range by Mii, which will rival Bare Minerals. We have a great team here and our clients consistently compliment them on the standard of their treatments & customer service.

6 Steps to Being The Shape You Want

1. Reduce your refined carbohydrate intake (pasta, bread, bagels, muffins etc) 2. Cut down on refined sugars (sweets, cakes, biscuits, fizzy drinks, etc) 3. Eat more vegetables (loads of reasons you should but some of these Ian Riches, Club Director says are; increases fibre, vitamins, minerals, alkalinity in “We have been running our Boot Camp the blood) courses for over a year now and more & more 4. Exercise with weights - yes ladies that means non-members are finding this a great way to you as well!!! (weights = higher metabolism). start a structured exercise 5. Sleep 8 hours a night - this is the “...we’ve just programme and get fantastic time when your body repairs, detox's results.” launched a brand itself, improves your mental function, new make-up reduces stress and lots, lots more Odyssey Spa range by Mii, which 6. Diarise your workouts - schedule them, don't move them and don't let After you’ve exercised, you can will rival Bare the rest of your life get in the way! relax with a gentle swim, steam or We can give you a full, hard workout Minerals”. sauna to complete your workout. in 30 minutes so we can fit it into There is always the option of a your lifestyle and get you the results you want. massage or facial in the Odyssey Spa to destress.

You can try Odyssey for yourself for free by calling 01438 313320 and try the best kept Tiffany Harding, Spa Manager says “We have a secret in Knebworth for yourself!

Boot Camp is the latest addition to the fitness experience, with over 10,000sq ft of indoor space dedicated to performing full body exercises to give you maximum results.

8

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

MARCH 2011

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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 up- dated 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

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VILLAGE LIFE

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.

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21/10/2010 10:4611

HANDY WORK

CLAY WITH CAROL

POTTERY LESSONS

C

lay with Carole was set up as a teaching studio by Carole Sender after she moved to Hitchin from North London last year.

Carole’s interest in studio ceramics goes back more than 30 years when she ran a shop in London selling handmade ceramics and crafts. She would tour the country visiting small rural workshops viewing and ordering studio ceramics.

During the following years she studied design and worked as a designer for architects in London. It was while she was having a family career break that her interest in ceramics was reignited. She joined an extra-mural class at the University of Hertfordshire and began to make sculptural ceramics. She learnt a great deal during this 8 year period and continued onto a City and Guild qualification in Creative Ceramics. In 2000 she joined the Art Foundation course at The University of Hertfordshire and followed this with a Fine Art Degree.

Her own work specialises in making hand built forms. She is very interested in surface decoration and use of colour and pattern. Her work is influenced by plant forms, and also the strange and beautiful structures found in the sea. She likes to use the clay in a sculptural way combining hand building methods of coiling and slab work to create large and small pieces.

She works with a variety of ceramic materials, earthenware, stoneware and porcelain using underglaze colours, slips and oxides, sometimes waxing and burnishing the surface after firing. Carole takes commissions for larger pieces, garden ceramics 12

and water features.

After moving to Hitchin she set up the well equipped making/teaching studio in her garden called Clay with Carole, which offers small friendly classes in ceramics to adult beginners and the more experienced. The classes are very popular and the students are making beautiful decorative pieces using a variety of hand building methods.There is a lot of emphasis on surface decoration, texture, painting and glazing during the classes.Teaching is informal with individual tuition.There is access to the internet and books and other resources for inspiration in the studio. Everything you need is provided right down to the aprons!

More information‌ For further information or to be on to a class, you can contact Carole on 07952 578 335, info@claywithcarole.co.uk or by visiting www. claywithcarole.co.uk or www.facebook.com/ potteryclasses

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

MARCH 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

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MARCH 2011

19/11/2010 12:48

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

13

ACTIVITIES

You’re never too old to keep active An exciting programme of exercise and dance classes is being delivered across the county as part of an initiative called Active Together coordinated by Herts Sports Partnership.

The programme aims to provide local, low cost and enjoyable exercise, sport and dance groups to improve health and wellbeing. The programme provides 25 classes each week in Breachwood Green, Knebworth and Welwyn.

Active Together classes running in your area include: BREACHWOOD GREEN VILLAGE HALL

RECREATIONAL TABLE TENNIS’ SESSIONS

For anyone over 30,Wednesdays, 7.30-9.30pm. £2.50 per session or £20 for 10 sessions RECREATIONAL BADMINTON’ SESSIONS

F

unded by Herts County Council, Active Together is aimed at improving the health of the older population. Across Hertfordshire, 60% of the population aged over 55 are completely sedentary, taking part in no physical activity or exercise. Being active provides long term benefits for your general health and research suggests that exercising in later can life can help to improve mobility, decrease the risk of falling and provides a remedy for health problems such as arthritis Joe Capon, Programme Manager from Herts Sports Partnership said: “The classes we offer give people the chance to try a variety of different activities and are a great way to socialise, without having to travel a great distance. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been inactive for a while.We aim to bring these services into local communities so they can have something accessible on their door step”.

Babs Squires, Chair of her local Active Together group explains “The members of our group find the services we provide very important.They love the fact they can walk down the road from their home to the village hall and take part in a variety of exercises all delivered by qualified fitness instructors. By members of the group clubbing together we have been able to establish ourselves and now provide badminton and tables tennis sessions in addition to our fitness group.

We would encourage other local residents within the parish to join us”.

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For anyone over 45,Tuesdays, 10-11am, £2.00 a session. These sessions are coached by members of Badminton England.

MULTI-ACTIVITY’ SESSIONS

For anyone over 50, Fridays, 10am-12pm £2.50 a session or £20 for 10 sessions.These sessions include a mixture of circuit training, stretch exercises, exercise to music, table tennis, badminton, indoor curling, new age bowls, summer sports outside and more.

KNEBWORTH VILLAGE HALL

MULTI-ACTIVITY’ SESSIONS

For anyone over 65, Fridays, 1pm-3pm, £2.50 a session or £25 for 10 sessions. These sessions include a mixture of gentle exercise, stretch exercises, light exercise to music, table tennis, badminton, indoor curling, new age bowls and more.

WHITE HILL CENTRE (WELWYN VILLAGE)

DANCE SESSIONS

For anyone over 50 – aimed at beginners,Thursdays 10am-12pm, £4.00 per session or £35 for 10 sessions.

These sessions provide a rolling programme of dance classes which are designed to be fun, but to also keep you fit! Every 2 weeks the programme moves onto a different style of dance and its covers anything from Line to Latin and everything in between! No partner needed, just enthusiasm and a love for dance!

For further information visit www.sportinherts. org.uk/50activities or contact Joe Capon on 01707 281004 or j.capon@herts.ac.uk

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

MARCH 2011

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

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14/12/2010 15:01

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

15

ON YOUR TRAVELS

WONDERFUL

WALES F

or a small country Wales has a lot to offer.

With dramatic mountains, spectacular seashores, tumbling rivers, fresh green valleys and Europe’s largest concentrations of medieval fortresses, it is a real gem that is often overlooked by tourists.

With a name that springs from the Anglo-Saxon term ‘waleas’ meaning ‘foreigner’, it is hardly surprising that the Welsh have a unique culture, language and heritage that distinguish them from the English. Although best known for their unpronounceable place names, roaring men’s choirs and fierce Rugby teams - this is a friendly and hospitable nation.

Wales is a land of nature and legend with stunning natural, unspoiled scenery that is protected by a series of large National Parks. For lovers of nature and the great outdoors Wales can be the perfect destination. If you are looking for a beach based holiday then the Welsh coastline has more than its fair share of blue flags, 45 beaches and 5 marinas have been awarded for their cleanliness. No other county in the United Kingdom has more Blue Flag Beaches or Seaside Awards than Pembrokeshire.

On the 1st-3rd of October 2010, the Ryder Cup came to Wales for the first time ever, on the first golf course purpose-built for the occasion, the Celtic Manor Resort’s Twenty Ten course. As 16

well as this championship course,Wales has golf courses where you can play beneath the shadow of a castle, parkland courses in mountain settings and inspirational links.There are some 200 golf courses in Wales, enough to feed any golf appetite.

There are three National Parks in Wales covering an area of 4122 sq km which represents approximately 20% of the land area of Wales.

Snowdonia was designated in 1951, followed in 1952 by Pembrokeshire Coast and finally Brecon Beacons in 1957.With activities such as hiking, sailing, trekking, and white water rafting you won’t have time to be bored in Wales!

Accommodation ranges from small guest houses, to private lodges and homes and of course right up to 5 star luxury hotels, something for all tastes.You can even take a holiday on a working farm.The kids can feed the animals and see how they live.You may even be able to collect your eggs for breakfast.You get to stay in the beautiful Welsh countryside in a rustic farm house with wonderful views.

Wales is a great holiday destination for a short break or a week or two away. Great scenery, great shopping, great beaches – what more can you ask for?

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

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

MARCH 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

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17

ON THE MENU

Saveur Moules Marinière This wonderful recipe comes courtesy of Liam Kerrigan, Head Chef, Saveur Restaurant, Codicote. It’s simple but rewarding everytime.

SERVES ONE

1kg/2.2lbs fresh mussels preferably farmed

115g/4oz unsalted butter

1 clove garlic, peeled and finely chopped

2 shallots, peeled and finely chopped 200ml/7fl oz dry white wine

1 bay leaf

1 large handful fresh flat leaf parsley chopped

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Prepare the mussels: Pull away the hair-like strands (beard) around the shell and scrub with a stiff brush under cold running water.

Heat 50g/2oz of the unsalted butter in a large saucepan. When hot and foaming add the garlic, shallots, wine and bay leaf. Cook over a medium heat until the shallots are soft and translucent.

Bring the shallots and wine mixture to the boil.

Add the mussels, cover the saucepan, gently shake the pan and cook over a high heat for 2-3 minutes, until the mussels open. Discard any mussels that remain closed after cooking or are shrivelled.

Strain the mussels over a large saucepan using a colander and set aside. Place the mussels into a large bowl. Retain the mussel liquor in the pan and return to the heat. Add the parsley and remaining butter and bring to the boil.

Pour the mixture over the mussels and serve immediately with plenty of fresh crusty bread and Rouille optional (Provencal Garlic Saffron Mayonnaise)

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

MARCH 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

RUSSELL DICKSON GARDEN LANDSCAPE DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

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MARCH 2011

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

19

PETS CORNER

Toilet training

I

n a natural setting a puppy would empty its bowels and bladder around the den, tending to avoid sleeping areas.

In captivity we will always want the puppy to go outside. Although it is inevitable that a young pup will have the occasional accident indoors, try to encourage the puppy to go outside.

As with all training, timing and patience is crucial.The most likely times a puppy will need to relieve its self include: • After a meal or a drink • After waking up • After a play session Remember as the weeks go by muscle development will allow for the puppy to control its bladder and bowels more

20

consistently. For this reason an owner may decide to use a puppy crate in order to avoid damaging carpets and other surfaces.

Reward the pup calmly when the correct behaviour is shown outside, either with the voice or food.With food rewards timing is crucial especially with a puppy that is highly food orientated.

Use the command ‘be clean’ or something similar. If you see that the puppy is about to mess in the house, quickly distract the pup and immediately take the animal outside. Never lose your temper with the pup if an accident happens in the house, calmly remove the puppy from the situation and clean the mess up. Use cleaning products which

are ammonia free for the obvious reason that ammonia is present in urine and a puppy will tend to re-use a particular spot.

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

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

MARCH 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

VillageLife FENCING SN MAINTENANCE

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We are looking for a part time sales consultant to help develop Village Life Magazine by selling advertising space.

All Your Fencing Needs Supplied & Fitted

Advertising sales experience is not required, just a very good telephone manner, a dynamic and motivated attitude and some outbound sales experience. Working hours will be flexible (5 to 10 hours per week) however increased hours may be available as the business grows.

This is an excellent opportunity to work with a small successful business in Stevenage and be rewarded with a generous salary and commission package.

To apply for the role, please email your CV and covering letter to mail@villagelifemag.com

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

Call Simon on 07971 860 135 / 01707 326 366

Is your computer driving you mad?

SN Fencing 0311.indd 1

16/02/2011 09:18

Call the IT Support Specialists

• Certified Engineer • On site or home visits • No fix No fee • Same day callouts when available • Friendly and reliable service • Average fix / repair just £35 • Stevenage Based Services Provided: • Virus & Spyware Removal • PC Health checks • Optimising slow PCs • Setting up home or office networks • Upgrades - Memory, Hard Disk, Software • Repairs, Backups, Data Recovery

Call 0800 234 3412 or 07590 547 150 www.hertshelpdesk.com Herts2011 Helpdesk 1010 HP.indd 1 MARCH

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

27/09/2010 10:3621

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

hiron Domestic QP 0310.indd 1

KERIE

JDL CONSTRUCTION

Extensions Garden Walls Chimney Restoration Block Paving Fully Qualified - Fully Insured Quality Guaranteed Telephone: 01438 351 368 Mobile: 07837 298 885 JDL Construction is a trading name of JDL Construction (Herts) Ltd

25/02/2010 12:34 0311.indd 1 JDL Contruction

17/02/2011 10:51

non-surgical facelifts nouveau eyelash extensions precision waxing with Lycon massage & inch loss wrap

07956 6 3218 8 beauty@keriehoy.com W W W.KER IEHOY.COM 22

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

MARCH 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

Chez Jerome French Contemporary Restaurant Now in the Good Food Guide 2011

Do you really know what you are looking at? We do.

Treat your mum to something special Mothering Sunday Sunday 3rd of April

Jeremy Ward

THREE COURSES JUST £22.95 PER HEAD

Independent Building Consultant

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

Offering a complete Design, Plan and Build Service for all building, renovation and conversion projects including; • Assessment and Feasibility • Design Drawings and Budgetary Costings • Obtain Planning and Building Control approval 16/02/2011 14:45 • Preparation of detailed Schedule of Works • Plans and Schedule of Works sent to builders for quotes • Check quotes and references • Select builders and issue Contract of Works • Provide project plan and payment schedules • Checking progress against the Project Plan • Checking build quality and adherence to the Schedule of Works Building and renovating is often complex, time consuming and expensive, but a well-planned project is an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

hez Jerome 0311 QP.indd 1

Peony Florist

Specialising in wedding �lowers, beautiful, stylish �lowers tailored to suit the bride, her dress and the wedding venue. For a free consultation call Lotty & start creating the perfect �lowers for your special day.

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

MARCH 2011

Jeremy Ward

Independent Building Consultant Telephone: 01462 438487 Mobile: 07958 670486 Website: www.jwibc.co.uk

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

23

PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

Composition

F

For portraits from single person to group, it is the people that are important and should occupy the majority of the photograph, try to compose the shot so there is the least amount of dead space as possible.

or a single person it is traditional to frame them portrait fashion, or so the shot is tall.There is nothing wrong with using the wide or landscape format, especially if the subject is facing to the side as you can give them space to look into.

For more than one person, stick to the landscape or wide format, but there are no set rules on this, it’s down to what looks right to you.

For single person portrait the eyes should be positioned two thirds up, granted again there are no set rules on this, but it just looks wrong any other way.

What works well for me is to ask the subject to lean slightly forward, this stretches the jaw line as well as taking any chin issues out of the equation. I always try to look slightly down on the subject as this brings the eyes into play more.

Also I like to bring hands into the shot as people look better with a prop and hands can offer that.

My personal favorite portrait setup is using window light as with the example photo. As long as the sun isn’t streaming directly through the window you can

G e of f

S h eed

take some wonderful photographs.

The non-direct light turns the window into a massive lampshade, making the light and shadows soft.This diffuse look will make skin look smoother and eyes more vibrant but be careful to ensure that the eye furthest from the window isn’t covered by the shadow from the nose.

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

Gr a p h i c s

Design & Artwork for Print & Web Brochures I Magazines I Corporate Identity Leaflets I Advertising I Display I Websites

Langley I Hitchin I Herts I SG4 7PN T: 01438 821122 I E: geoffsheed@gsg2.demon.co.uk W: www.geoff sheed graphics.co.uk

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

MARCH 2011

VILLAGE LIVING

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 Village Life Advert Feb 2011:Layout 1 11/01/2011 12:43 Page 1 Old Welwyn Construction 0111 HP.indd 1

You Can Be The Shape You Want

16/12/2010 09:47

Try Odyssey Free for 7 Days www.odysseyhealthclubs.com 01438 313320 MARCH 2011

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

What’s on in March Sunday 13th March, Sunday Lunchtime Jazz Brothers at the Gordon Craig Theatre Stevenage

Take a Break…

CROSSWORD

Jazz Brothers Trio, consisting of trumpet/trombone, guitar and bass with vocals. Playing popular music of artists such as Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, George Gerswin and singers such as Sinatra, Nat Cole, Callum, Buble and Williams. Foot tapping and easy listening jazz with gentle bossa novas.

Box office: 08700 131 030

16th March; The Italian Circle of Mid-Herts presents Verdi & the Risorgimento W.G.C. Golf Club, Mannicotts, Off High Oaks Road, W.G.C, AL8 7BP An audio-visual presentation by Peter Bleasby. Free Parking Available. For further information call 01707 372264 or 01438 715214. Non-members £5 per visit

Thursday 17th March 7.30pm – Soldiers in Concert The Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD It all began in the British Army, a band of friends on a dream journey, takes in the world’s war zones and reality TV and boasts a feel good soundtrack you would leave the cinema singing. Tickets £22.50 or £20.00. Box office: 01727 844 488

Friday 18th March (noon -11pm) and Saturday 19th March (11am-11pm) Hitchin Beer and Cider Festival 70+ Cask Beers, Cider, Perry Foreign Beer and Food at Hitchin Town Hall, Brand Street. www.camranorthherts.org.uk/2011-hitchin-beer-cider-festival/

Saturday 19th March, 10am to 12pm, Peace Memorial Hall, High Street, Codicote, SG4 8XE

ACROSS 1 Disaster (11) 9 Giving approval or support (13) 10 Going too fast (8) 12 Outrageous musical! (4) 14 Take these to ride a horse (5) 15 Be attracted to (5) 19 Not hard (4) 20 Unit of computer memory (8) 22 Something that is certain (13) 24 Clever (11)

Codicote Playgroup Nearly New sale Come along and grab a bargain - all items will be nearly new - Children’s clothes, toys and equipment. 25% of proceeds go towards Codicote Playgroup. Sellers packs available from Laura Perry on 07861 371 677.

DOWN 2 Curved shape (3) 3 Lots (8) 4 Northern Rail has these (6) 5 Kitchen appliance (4) 6 Pecking order (9) 7 You can talk this (5) 8 Tale (5) 11 Fir tree (9) 13 To have a negative effect on (8) 16 To entice or persuade (5) 17 The devil is in this (6) 18 East African country (5) 21 Buddy, can you spare one? (4) 23 A play on words (3)

SUDOKU

Sunday 27th March, NCT Welwyn Garden City Children’s Spring Nearly New Sale Stanborough School, Lemsford Lane, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL8 6YR Everything you could need for children 0-8 years old: spring/summer clothes, babywear, baby equipment, cots, prams, maternity wear, toys, books, DVD’s, games etc. Entrance Cost for the sale is £1. NCT MEMBERS GET IN 30 MINUTES EARLY. Contact: Emma Kern on 0844 243 6316 or visit www.nct.org.uk/welwyn

Sunday 27th March, 9am to 12pm – Farmers Market Woolmer Green Village Hall, Hall Lane, Woolmer Green, KNEBWORTH, SG3 6XA Goats cheese, fresh seasonal vegetables and home produced; lamb, beef, pork, sausages, bacon and gammon. On average there are 16 stalls.

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

MARCH 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

Ceramic Classes & Workshops in Hitchin

Specialists in Plumbing and heating Boiler & Heating Installations Boiler Upgrades Power Flushing Pumps, Radiators & Valves Hot & Cold Water Tanks

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.

All Plumbing & Heating work undertaken For a free no obligation quote contact 01438 712712 www.staggproperty.co.uk info@staggproperty.co.uk

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

Visit www.claywithcarole.co.uk or my facebook page: Clay with Carole.

3 Brook View, Hitchin, SG4 9NY

Village Tree Services

Stagg Property 15/12/2010 10:06Services QP 0211.indd 1

ay with Carole QP 0111.indd 1

19/01/2011 12:02

Village Tree Services

25% Off

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

a Shampoo, Cut & Style with any Colour Service Specializing in colouring, cutting and styling full trained salon professional service at affordable prices.





“Your hair’s happiness is just a phone call away!”



07796 565 773 Valid only with this advert and not in conjunction with any other offer (limited period only)

MARCH 2011

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

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

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VILLAGE LIFE



JD Plastering

  

Clean, Reliable Plasterers with over 20 years experience

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

• • •

 

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

Jason Dimmock 07775 668 481 01582 724761

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

12 Whittingham Close Luton, Bedfordshire. LU2 9UR

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

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

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15/02/2011 14:33

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

Moles

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

Mobile: 07890 131174 Telephone: 01767 315101

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

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

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

MARCH 2011

VILLAGE LIFE

For Specialist Matrimonial Advice

JCS SOLICITORS Divorce & Separation Cohabitation Children

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

We cover Herts & Beds.

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

Want to play Drums?

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.

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

I H Property Services All your home maintenance and building needs Bathrooms, Kitchens, Doors, Windows, Fitted furniture made to measure, Plumbing, electrics, flooring, Painting & Decorating, Wall & Floor Tiling, Garage Conversions Your Local Friendly Tradesman 30 Years Experience For a free quotation call Ian 01438 221 921 07816 390 309 ian.hall0@ntlworld.com

MARCH 2011

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory p 29

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

SHOWCASE

Fairlight Blinds

COMPUTER PROBLEMS

Made to Measure Blinds & Curtains Home & Office Choice of Fabrics Wide Range of Blinds

Want to kick your computer?

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

Please call 01438 820171 or visit our website: www.fairlightblinds.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

Michael Shelley

18:41

Electrical

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 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

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

Orlando Villa Near Disney

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

MATHS AND SCIENCE TUITION

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

Call: 07861 371 677

Perfect Petz & Polish Pet/House Sitting. Pet Services.

Domestic House Cleaning.

Tel: 07917 866840 / 01462 850161

LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION SPECIAL OFFER 6000 leaflets delivered with this magazine across 12 villages for only £140!

(Price normally £180 - SAVE £40)

For further details call us on 01438 216 950 30

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

MARCH 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