Village Life Hitchin December 2012

VillageLife Lifestyle | Business | Community www.villagelifemag.com

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ISSUE 41: December 2012

Christmas Log Recipe Red Rubber ball foundation Paramedic’s Dearest Wish Granted by Air Ambulance

PLUS Local Businesses showcased • Codicote • Kimpton • Whitwell • Preston • Breachwood Green • Graveley • Little Wymondley • Great Wymondley • St. Ippolyts • Gosmore • Knebworth • Welwyn Village

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WELCOME to december

Another year has passed with many a great memory, here at Village Life we would like to say a huge heartfelt thank you to all of our readers and advertisers who make this magazine possible. 2012 hasn’t been an easy year for small businesses and we have found it really tough at times, but we are looking forward to a great 2013. We all need to carry on supporting our local businesses as much as possible!

We would love to hear from you with any new ideas and suggestions to take this magazine forward or if there is something you would like to see in it.

Also any local stories or events you have then please get in touch.

We would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and an even better New Year!

Don’t forget you can find the answers to the puzzles on our website – www.villagelifemag.com and we are also on Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter – @villagelifemag!

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

Bye for now,

Jose & Melanie

Contents 4:

Local news

6:

Wellbeing: Marilyn Tuck – Christmas Present Time

8:

Recipe: Christmas Chocolate Log

10:

Business: UHY WKH – Academies

12:

Community:The Red Rubber Ball Foundation

16:

Business: Edible Bouquets

18:

Community:The Barn Theatre

22:

Business: Peony Floral Boutique

28:

What’s on in December / 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.

December 2012

Xmas logo recipe: page 8

red rubber ball: page 12

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

01438 216950, www.villagelifemag.com © 2012 Village Life (Hitchin).Village Life (Hitchin) is an independent magazine and does not endorse the products or services that appear in the magazine. Opinions expressed in the magazine do not necessarily represent those of the editor or of Village Life magazine.

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

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LOCAL NEWS

Paramedic’s Dearest Wish Granted by Air Ambulance East of England Ambulance Service Trust (EEAST) Paramedic Adrien Paine, of Colchester, who is currently bravely fighting a brain tumour, had his wish granted when his wife experienced a helicopter flight on board the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance whilst on a non-operational flight.

During a recent meeting with Hayden Newton, EEAST Left to right: Stuart Elms (EHAAT Clinical Chief Executive, 41 year old Adrien, a former Royal Manager), Tracy Paine, Adrien Paine and Marine Commando soon found himself explaining to Dan Firmin (HEMS Paramedic) Hayden about a surprise he wanted to arrange for his wife. Adrien explained: “It is my wife, Tracy’s lifelong ambition to experience a helicopter flight. I wanted to surprise her for her birthday in May this year but unfortunately due to my illness this never happened.

After speaking to Hayden, he made contact with Jane Gurney, CEO of Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT) and her dream soon became a reality.”

Cliff Gale, Operations Director of Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust, adds: ”This is a highly unusual request for us and normally we would decline but fortunately the helicopter was due its annual service and was already making the flight from Staverton to North Weald and therefore would not incur any cost to the Charity. So, it was decided that we could provide this once in a lifetime opportunity in support of one of our local Paramedics.”

Due to the respect EHAAT has for EEAST Paramedics, Jane and her team went all out to make it possible for Tracy to be a passenger on board a replacement helicopter for Herts Air Ambulance whilst on a non-operational flight to Staverton. She then flew to North Weald airfield in the Herts Air Ambulance following its annual service.

Speaking of her experience, Tracy, said: “The experience of the helicopter flight was amazing, I hadn’t realised it would exceed my expectations as much as it did. It was an absolute pleasure to meet the Pilot Craig who had me feeling right at ease. Whilst in the air Craig pointed out some of the sights and the most amazing thing was Blenheim Palace; the view of the grounds from the air was magic. I would sincerely like to thank everyone who made the experience possible and for making myself and my husband feel very welcome at the Air Base, it truly was an experience I will never forget.”

Stuart Elms, Clinical Manager at Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust, also a former Royal Marine Commando, adds: “It was a privilege to spend a day with Adrien at the Air Base, showing him how the HEMS operation works and talking through some of our shared experiences when serving at 40 Commando Royal Marines. We work very closely with EEAST and the Charity is honoured to be in a position to fulfil Adrien’s wish who has worked with some of our very own Air Crew including HEMS Paramedic Dan Firmin.”

Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust is responsible for operating two Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) for Essex, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas. It costs in the region of £380,000 per month to cover all charitable costs and aircraft operations including the provision of Doctors. The service enables clinicians and life-saving support equipment to be rushed to the scene of an incident and the patient can be flown to an appropriate hospital. Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust receives no National Lottery funding and is reliant upon donations from the public and local business to raise the funds needed to keep both Air Ambulances flying. For more information call the Fundraising Office on 0845 504 0055.

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

December 2012

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WELLBEING

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

December 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

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Eye brows can be tinted, threaded or waxed whilst lashes can be permed, tinted, straightened and lengthened!

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

7

recipe

Christmas Chocolate Log Recipe INGREDIeNTS For the cake 3 eggs 85g golden caster sugar 85g plain flour (less 2 tbsp) 2 tbsp cocoa powder ½ tsp baking powder for the filling & icing 50g butter 140g dark chocolate, broken into squares 1 tbsp golden syrup 284ml pot double cream 200g icing sugar, sifted icing sugar & holly sprigs to decorate (ensure you remove the berries before serving)

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1. H eat oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. Grease and line a 23 x 32cm Swiss roll tin with baking parchment. Beat the eggs and sugar together with an electric whisk for about 8 mins until thick and creamy.

2. M ix the flour, cocoa and baking powder together, then sift onto the egg mixture. Fold in very carefully, then pour into the tin. Now tip the tin from side to side to spread the mixture into the corners. Bake for 10 mins.

3. L ay a sheet of baking parchment on the work surface. When the cake is ready, tip it onto the parchment, peel off the lining paper, then roll the cake up from its longest edge with the paper inside. Leave to cool.

4. T o make the icing, melt the butter and chocolate together in a bowl over a pan of hot water. Take from the heat and stir in the syrup and 5 tbsp cream. Beat in the icing sugar until smooth.

Whisk the remaining cream until it holds its shape. Unravel the cake, spread the cream over the top then carefully roll up again into a log.

5. C ut a thick diagonal slice from one end of the log. Lift the log on to a plate, then arrange the slice on the side with the diagonal cut against the cake to make a branch.

6. S pread the icing over the log and branch (don’t cover the ends), then use a fork to mark the icing to give the effect of tree bark. Scatter with unsifted icing sugar to resemble snow, and decorate with holly.

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

December 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

Home Styling

Need a new look without spending a fortune?

TIPS & ADVICE ON Room layouts | Colours & Fabrics | Lighting, Space-saving & More A three hour session for £285 – call us to find out more Jane Fleming: 07932 509947 and Deborah Negri: 07958 567165 Or visit our website www.jd-interiordesign.co.uk

We listen, We create, You enjoy.

December 2012

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

9

business

UHY WKH – Academies Adam Fernandes, Business Development Manager from UHY WKH Partnership Chartered Accountants talks about his firm and the services they can provide to those schools who are Academies or wishing to convert to an Academy…..

Helping you get ahead of the learning curve…

Y

ou won’t need us to tell you that along with the increased freedom that comes with becoming an Academy, comes increased responsibility.

Fortunately we’re on hand to help lighten the load.To meet the challenges ahead you will need a team both inside and outside of your organisation that are committed to your success.UHY WKH Partnership has an academies team who are fast becoming experts in the academy sector, and can assist schools in tackling those challenges.We see ourselves as being an important part of the team and making valuable contribution to your Academy School all the way through its life cycle.

Historically, we have always acted for a number of schools, and in terms of the charity and not-for-profit sector generally. Currently we act for four new style academies, and are in discussions with other schools in the area that are planning to convert to academies in the near future.

Nationally we are also one of the leading auditors to academy schools, and if required we are able to call on the expertise of the other academy specialists within the UHY Group of which we have been a member firm since January 2012.

The partners and managers in our academy team, whilst having professional expertise in the academy and charity sectors, also have experience due to personal commitments. So, as a team, we really do appreciate the constraints within which schools have to operate.

Recognition about the lack of continuity in your accounting team being irritating for academy school managers is paramount to our success, as we offer a dedicated academies team committed to meeting the challenges with you, and upholding our firms commitment to providing proactive help and advice and support whenever our clients need. Chris Maylin, partner, and Scott Rouse, manager, are the principal points of contact with overall responsibility for the academies team.Tim Maris, another of our partners, is the audit engagement partner to ensure our independence is maintained.

Chris and Scott are supported by a team of qualified and experienced auditors.

Whether you are considering becoming an Academy, have already gained Academy Status or are remaining in the Local Authority Structure, we have the range of services and experience to support you.

If you would like to talk to me in the first instance please call me anytime on 01462 687333 or 07850 504044

Come to the professionals with expert knowledge, experience & resources to make a difference.

2

Accountants & auditors

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Financial planning

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

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community

TheRedRubberBallFoundation

Have you ever noticed how one thing leads to another?

W

ell that’s certainly the case for Neil Kirby from Welwyn Garden City. A couple of years ago Neil offered to raise some money for a small farming project in Kenya. The aim was to turn a patch of rough ground into a selfsustaining small holding that would feed local orphan children and help educate other villagers.

Having raised some money Neil went out to Kenya to see the land and the orphan children.This turned out well and Neil set up a UK charity to make sure the funds were used correctly.

While there he met a young boy, John, who had done well in his primary school exams but couldn’t go on to secondary school. Since his father had died, John needed to help his mum raise his brothers and sisters. Struggling to earn enough just to eat, there was no way they could afford his schooling.

Seeing the small amounts involved, Neil and his family offered to sponsor John so he could complete the four years at secondary school. It seemed like a small gesture, but John and his family were ecstatic and even presented Neil with a chicken in his honour.

Neil returned to Hertfordshire and told friends, family and work contacts what had happened. Several asked if he could arrange a similar scholarship for them – so he did.

The 2012 school year is just ending in Kenya and the scheme has grown beyond all expectation. 30 children have benefited from secondary school scholarships and 2 students are completing their university studies due to support from local people.

The children really value the opportunity to complete their schooling – an opportunity they would not otherwise have. Many come from single parent families or are orphans, having lost parents to AIDS, malaria and other illnesses.

Each child knows about their sponsor and is encouraged to write.These letters express their deep gratitude that someone they’ve never met, halfway across the world, cares enough to give them an education.

The sponsors also know about the child, their school and family circumstances. In addition to these letters, they receive copies of school reports so keep up to date with their progress.

So what next for Neil?

12

The first boy sponsored, John, receives a letter & small gifts from the UK

Neil visits Tonny to find out about his progress at school

The farm has now produced its first Maize crop and will become self-sufficient next year.

He’s recently begun to set up a football academy for boys and girls in Nairobi to provide food, education and play. He’s being helped with this by a group of sixth form students at Chancellors School in Brookmans Park, the Chancey Dragons, who are taking part in the Dragons Apprentice Challenge run by St. Albans CVS.The funds they raise from “business” ventures will fund the project for street children and slum kids.

And Neil is planning the scholarships for 2013; wondering how many more children can be given an education?

If you’d like to sponsor a child – call Neil on 01707 395850, or you can find more information at www.redrubberball.co.uk/foundation

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

December 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

RUSSELL DICKSON GARDEN LANDSCAPE DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

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

Dreaming of a

White Horse Christmas?

Seasons Greetings from Janet & her Team at the White Horse, Kimpton Christmas Menu available throught December.

Local produce including Kimpton Hoo Farm Beef & Ramridge Farm Pheasants.

The White Horse, 22 High Street, Kimpton, SG4 8RJ 01438 832307 www.whitehorsekimpton.co.uk

December 2012

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

E

dible Bouquets offer Fresh Fruit Bouquets, boxes of Chocolate covered fruit, Sweet Trees all of which make a perfect gift for any occasion. For Weddings, Parties or Corporate Events, they provide platters of gourmet dipped strawberries or fruit kebabs, centrepieces, table decorations and favours. Their popular ‘Strawberry Tower’ has 7 tiers holding a selection of covered strawberries with a variety of designs and the Tower can be tailored to your requirements.

They can deliver their products nationwide making them perfect gifts for Christmas.The business is owned and run by mother and daughter team Dulcie and Tara. It was setup in 2007 when Tara’s children reached school age, Tara and Dulcie are both creative and wanted to work together and still be able to collect the kids from school.They had the vision of delivering a unique and fresh idea to gift giving.

Tara said, “All of our products are designed and made with passion by hand.We have both always enjoyed giving gifts and our aim is to help you send something fresh and unique to make your family and friends smile.”

You can find further information and a large range of products available on their website www.ediblebouquets.co.uk alternatively call 07786 005 481 or email info@ediblebouquets.co.uk Edible Bouquets Ltd, Unit 40, Wedgwood Way, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 4QT 0778 600 5481 www.ediblebouquets.co.uk

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

December 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

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December 2012

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21/11/11 09:52:14

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The red lion Ray and Jo Lambe welcome you to the Red Lion in Preston.

Come and celebrate our amazing year as CAMRA North Herts Pub of the Year 2012.

Our fresh, seasonal menu with be available over the Christmas period as will our celebrated real ale offering with some seasonal additions. With a roaring fire and cosy, welcoming atmosphere come along and enjoy a beautifully prepared meal or pint of award winning beer.

We don’t take reservations online, we’d rather talk to you in person so please give us a call on 01462 459 585. www.theredlionpreston.co.uk @RedLionPreston (Twitter) The Red Lion, Preston, Nr Hitchin, Hertfordshire

The Station

We are still taking bookings for

Christmas Parties, Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day Join us on the 15th December from 5pm for a shopping evening, some great stalls for last minute Christmas shopping Aimi is singing carols on December 21st, followed by a DJ to start getting you in the festive spirit The Station is the place to party on Christmas Eve & New Years Eve with J Ryan from 8pm Make sure you never miss a thing join us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheStationKnebworth The Station Knebworth, 1 Station Approach, Knebworth SG3 6AT

01438 812 224

community

The Barn Theatre, situated in Handside Lane, Welwyn Garden City has been in existence for 80 years on the site of an old Barn. It is well known for producing high quality non-professional plays.

T

he barn was originally erected in 1830 and was a used for farming by Thomas Horn (1771-1846), a farmer from Bramfield, By 1920 the total farm was 640 acres and the Horn family had become very prominent in the local community.

William James was very highly regarded for his agricultural expertise. His son William Cooper was a magistrate and later became Chairman of Welwyn Garden City Urban District Council.

In 1921 the Barn was converted to a milking parlour and dairy: the cows were milked in the front part of the building, and the milk was processed and bottled in the rear part. A concrete silo, now such a prominent feature of the building, was put up in about 1922.

By 1940 the dairy equipment had all been removed, the front part of the building was used by the Welwyn Garden City Company and the Store’s social club. It seems that for a few years the dairy at the rear co-existed with the theatre in the front.

The local press records the opening of the Barn Theatre on Monday 4th January 1932, with four drama groups most involved in its preparation each performing a oneact play, with performances every night of the week. In that opening year there were ‘only’ 5 full-length shows, compared with 10 in 1933! In 1946 the Barn was in a sorry state after wartime use by the Army and then by Naval Cadets, so a committee from the various drama groups was set up to organise the virtually complete restoration of the theatre facilities, and to take over management of the building.

Thanks to great efforts by many volunteers, the theatre, in many ways better fitted out than before, was reopened to the public in November 1946. During the following years the Barn Theatre Committee was able to arrange from 8 to 12 shows annually. In the late 1950’s structural repairs were undertaken. Also at about this time a Barn Theatre supporters club was formed, partly to raise money for improvements, and a Clubroom with licensed Bar for club members was opened in 1961.Today, modern drama, farce, comedy, Shakespeare & Pantomime all feature in

the Barn’s season.With a thriving membership of 600 including 2 youth groups it has a genuine warm, theatrical feel to it.The theatre is run by enthusiastic volunteers who ensure the 10 plays performed each season from September to July are to a very high standard.Whether it’s on stage, backstage, front of house or box office, there are opportunities for all to take part.The auditorium seats 145 and whilst not the London Palladium is very comfortable and welcoming.

Sets are made in the workshop; props & stage furniture are sourced from the Barn’s own stores whilst the costumes, which can be hired out, come from the selfcontained Festival Costumes department.

During the season the theatre is a hive of activity.

With one show each month there are usually 2 or 3 plays rehearsing at any one time in one of the 2 rehearsal rooms or on the stage whilst the set takes shape.

Each play runs for 9 performances starting with a member’s night on Friday and ending the following Saturday when there is usually a matinee performance.

A whole army of people help run each production and without them shows could not be performed. Backstage, lighting, sound, Box office, front of house managers & stewards are all an integral part of the show team. Part of the Barn theatrical experience is to have a drink in the quaint, welcoming bar, staffed by volunteers.

You can be assured of a good evening’s entertainment when visiting the Barn.They are always looking for more people to join them. For more information go to www.barntheatre.co.uk

Barn Theatre, Handside Lane, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire AL8 6ST 01707 324300 www.barntheatre.co.uk

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

December 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

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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.

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

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

Peony Floral Boutique Christmas Gift ideas from

W

ith Christmas just around the corner it’s a fun and exciting time of year, even more so for Peony Floral Boutique who celebrated their 4th birthday last month. They have just opened their second outlet at Stevenage Indoor Market. On offer will be their usual cut flowers and bouquets, lots of gorgeous indoor plants and containers (ideal if you would like a good value, long lasting gift), funky mini arrangements, a selection of our gifts, cards and balloons. In addition to this they will be selling hand decorated Christmas door wreaths, fresh holly and spruce. Let them know your colours and they will make one up for you. They are also now taking orders for Christmas table arrangements, posies, hand tied bouquets and plants. Delivery is available all over Stevenage and the surrounding villages, in addition to Hitchin, Codicote, Welwyn Garden city and the villages nearby. Back at the main shop on Codicote High Street, they will be offering all the above

plus a much larger range of gifts, so pop over to one of the shops to see what is on offer!

Peony will be running a Christmas shopping day at both venues on the Saturday 15th of December, where you can enjoy complementary drinks and nibbles and a 10% discount.

Stevenage is open Wednesday to Saturday 8.30am – 5.30pm, Codicote is open Mon 10am – 4.30pm, Tues – Fri 10am – 4.30pm (closed Wed 5th December) and Sat 10am – 2.30pm If you would like a delivery on a Monday or Tuesday when the market is closed, please contact the Codicote store on 01438 821888. Christmas deliveries will be delivered on Saturday 22nd, Sunday 23rd & Monday 24th of December.

121 High St, Codicote SG4 8UA & Unit 70 Stevenage Indoor Market, St Georges Place, Stevenage SG1 1EP www.peonyflorist.co.uk

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

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

Telephone: 01438 820 288 www.davidthomasgarages.co.uk Newtown, Codicote, Herts. SG4 8UG 1 Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 20 David Thomas Garages HP 1110.indd Village

21/10/2010 10:46 December 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

Codicote Spice

79 High Street, Codicote, SG4 8XE 01438 820 166 / 821 613

“ I would highly recommend a visit to Codicote Spice for a great curry with wonderful friendly service in a nice environment.”

Banquet Night

As Reviewed byVillage Life in Dec 2011

*King Prawn & Special Dishes £2.95 extra

(Every Wednesday) Choose any: ONE STARTER ONE MAIN DISH ONE SIDE DISH ONE NAN OR RICE

£9.95

Open Sun - Thurs 6.00pm to 11.30pm, Fri - Sat 6.00pm to 12.00am Takeaway service with free delivery within 3 miles of Codicote (Over £15) 10% discount on collected orders over £10.

28 December 2012

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

21

VILLAGE LIFE

Guess what we’re having?

HALF PRICE SALE COME IN TO SEE THE SAVINGS YOU CAN MAKE S E L E C T E D I T E M S O N LY

Unit 136, Stevenage Indoor Market, St Georges Way, Stevenage SG1 1EP We are opposite the rear entrance to Wilkinsons

Tel/Fax: 01438 314263 Mobile: 07970 034579 email: sales@oaklandblinds.co.uk WHERE QUALITY MATTERS

Opening Hours: Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat, 9am - 5pm

why not visit our website: www.oaklandblinds.co.uk

Old Welwyn Construction Specialists in Extensions, Home Refurbishment, Landscaping, Patios and Driveways.

Call Daniel on 01438 715362 or 07748 204 818 Email: oldwelwynconstruction@hotmail.co.uk 1 Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 22 Old Welwyn Construction 0811 HP.indd Village

21/07/2011 14:05 December 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

Francesca’s

Mobile Hairdressing

Make it happen for you...

If you dream of being fitter, healthier and happier, make this your year and be what you have always wanted to be!

I am a former Russian International Athlete.

My biggest success was at the 1994 World Athletics Championships, where I was a member of the gold-winning team in the 4x400m relay.

“As a professional athlete I always looked for the best possible performance and I believe my clients deserve nothing less!”

Specialising in: Cuts & Blow Dry

I can help you Lose weight l Improve body shape & fitness l Build core strength & stability l Increase wellbeing Reduce stress & fatigue l Recover from injury or illness

Colour & Colour Correction Hi Lights, Low Lights

In addition, I can provide Cardio vascular training l Sport specific training Specialising in Running – 10k/Half/Full Marathon Sports massage l Cardiac Rehabilitation

Fully Qualified & Insured Call Francesca for an appointment or a free consultation on

Personal Training with Svetlana 07771 547 691 www. personaltrainingstevenage.com

07579 007 049

Expert care in the comfort of your own home

VET

Rabley Tree Care Rabley Tree Care Rabley Tree Care

01438 840 028 enquiries@tewinvets.co.uk www.tewinvets.co.uk December 2012

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

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

23

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

Leaflet Delivery Available Would you like your leaflet to be delivered with Village Life to Welwyn, Knebworth, Codicote, Kimpton, Whitwell, Preston, Graveley, Gosmore, St Ippollets, Little Wymondley, Great Wymondley and Breachwood Green?

Cost ÂŁ50 per 1,000 or ÂŁ199 for 5,000

Call Melanie on 01438 216 950

24

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

December 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

S A C R E D S PA C E architecture inspired by you If you are embarking on a project to refurbish, extend or modernise your home, or build an entirely new one, then you need a design team who will treat your design as if it’s their own.

Feasibility Planning Building Regulations

The Sacred Space Company 01707 391415 Info@thesacredspacecompany.co.uk www.thesacredspacecompany.co.uk

would you like to save money on your insurance?

Call Cheshunt Central Insurance on 01992 307100 or visit www.specialist4.co.uk Internet prices on the high street

Quote Village Life and receive free legal expenses cover worth ÂŁ25 Cheshunt Central Insurance Consultants are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Our FSA registered number is 306181.

December 2012

Are you a local

PAINTER & DECORATOR looking for more business?

Village Life is looking for a reliable local Painter & Decorator to advertise in the magazine.

If you would like to come on board and advertise your company to 15,000 readers each month, we will offer low advertising rates.

Contact Melanie on

01483 216 950

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

25

VILLAGE LIFE

Gales Carpet Cleaning

Younique Vocal Class

Fully NCCA Trained with 10 Years Experience

Confidence & performance through SINGING

Full Liability Insurance Domestic and Commercial Quality Work Guaranteed Free Quotation info@galescarpetcleaning.co.uk Tel: 07790190496 or 01462 850010 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

26

Age 8+ Tuesdays 6pm-7pm Hertford Rd Community Hall, Stevenage

Contact Aimi 07790 480 352

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

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

December 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

FENCING SN MAINTENANCE

All Your Fencing Needs Supplied & Fitted Free Estimates Council Approved Hedge Cutting Garden Maintenance Friendly & Reliable Service

Call Simon on 07971 860 135 / 01707 326 366

Village Village Tree Services Tree Services

Andrew Sinclair

SN Fencing 0311.indd 1

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

Electrician

16/02/2011 09:18

All domestic electrical work undertaken from a socket to a rewire 20 years experience

 & City Guilds qualified  Kitchens Bathrooms  Fusebox changes Call for a free quotation  Tel: 01438 832 673 Mob: 07796 648 930  l



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

December 2012

  127 High Street, Kimpton, Herts, SG4 8QN

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

27

Take a Break…

what’s on

What’s on in december...

21st November – 24th December Santa’s Grotto Spectacular Grotto & Festive Farm Fun, Willow Farm, London Colney, AL4 0PF Willows Farm brings Christmas to life with a magical Santa’s Grotto, reindeer, Santa’s toy shop and so much more...

Visit www.willowsfarmvillage.com for details.

Saturday 1st December – Sunday 27th January Jingle Bell Jog & Reindeer Run, Waterend Barn, St Peters Street, St Albans AL1 3LE Fun and festive event, walk or run either a 1.5km or 5km through St Albans dressed up as Santa Claus or Rudolph to raise muchneeded funds for Iain Rennie Hospice at Home. Entertainment and refreshments available at The Waterend Barn and the chance to stock up on Christmas cards. Reindeer Run 11am start, Jingle Bell Jog 11.30am start. Register at www.grove-house.org.uk/ jinglebelljog. For further info, 01442 820717, cevans@irhh.org

ACROSS 7. 2006 Spike Lee film starring Denzel Washington & Clive Owen (6,3) 8. Plant with clusters of white, red or purple flowers (5) 9. Singer whose hits include Cars & We Are Glass (4,5) 10. Snake also called a viper (5) 12. Hot molten rock that solidifies to form igneous rock (5) 14. Substance that supposedly emanates from a medium in a trance (9) 16. Republic of Ireland’s longest river (7) 18. Stiff clerical cap worn in the Roman Catholic church (7) 20. A large thick-skinned mammal such as an elephant (9) 21. Terence, actor whose films include Far From the Madding Crowd and Superman II (5) 24. Dance performed to Latin American big band music (5) 25. The plant Mentha spicata which yields an oil used in flavouring (9) 27. Value of the green ball in snooker (5) 28. Eastenders character played

by Shane Richie (5,4)

28

DOWN 1. Turkish city famed for its long-haired Angora goat (6) 2. See 13 (4) 3. South Korean city that hosted the 1988 Olympics (5) 4. Former British colony, home of reggae music (7) 5. He became Prime Minister of Israel in 2006 (4,6) 6. English county, home to the Mendips and the Quantocks (8) 11. See 23 (5) 13. and 2 Football team that formerly played at Maine Road (10,4) 15. London cricket ground, headquarters of the MCC (5) 17. Native American chief celebrated in a well-known poem by Longfellow (8) 19. Libyan capital (7) 22. James ___ 5th President of the U.S. (6) 23. and 11 Singers whose hits include Heroes and Ashes to Ashes (5,5) 26. Musical filmed in 1974 with Lucille Ball in the title role (4)

Wednesday 19th December, 7pm Christmas Carols with live music, The Plough P.H. Ley Green, Nr Kings Walden SG4 8LA Come and sing along to Christmas Carols with live musical accompaniment. Family and friends welcome to this free event, mince pies and mulled wine available. Call 01462 423617 for details. There will be a collection for the RNLI.

Sunday 16th & Sunday 23rd December Sunday Lunch with Santa at Knebworth House, 12pm Treat the family to a delicious two course festive lunch in the stunning 16th Century barns. Santa will be making an appearance with complimentary gifts for all children. Festivities begin at midday with Lunch served at 12:30pm. Booking essential. House and Park closed. Book online: www.knebworthhouse.com/tickets

Thursday 20th December, 7.30pm (8pm start) The Wind in the Willows, Barn Theatre, Barn Close, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6ST A Charity performance of The Wind in the Willows in aid of Isabel Hospice. Tickets £10, available from Val Robinson in fundraising on 01707 382500

Tue 1st Jan - Sat 12 Jan 2013 Cinderella Pantomime – Digswell Players, Digswell Village Hall AL6 0AT Cinderella will be performed by The Digswell Players. A donation from the proceeds will be made to Isabel Hospice. Performance times vary. Tickets cost £8.50 and £5.50 for under 16’s, less 50p per ticket if purchased before Christmas. Box office 0845 2090 100

GET YOUR EVENT LISTED FOR FREE HERE, EMAIL: mail@villagelifemag.com or call us on 01438 216 950 Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

December 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

Need help with your PC?

Your local Will Writing Company Will Writing Estate Administration (Probate) Lasting Powers of Attorney’s Wide range of Trusts Inheritance Tax advice Free consultation, home visits available day or evening “The team handle this sensitive issue with compassion, care and attention to detail ensuring that all of your requirements are met”

01992 535 135 www.abbottswills.co.uk Conbar House, Mead Lane, Hertford, SG13 7AP

 All your computer problems solved  Friendly, affordable, jargon free service  Training and advice provided  Website design and hosting  Home and small business specialists  Local company, fast response time  We guarantee NO FIX NO FEE

Call now on: 01438 833 671 spectrum IT support Solving your IT problems

info@spectrumITsupport.co.uk www.spectrumITsupport.co.uk

5 Pondcroft Welwyn Garden City Hertfordshire

CDI GROUP

Your local electricians • • • • • • • •

Electrical testing R ewires Lighting installation Fuse & consumer units F ire & smoke alarms Security systems O utdoor power Garden lighting & design

Commercial & Industrial Electrical Services

Call for a free quotation

01707 333000 www.cdi-electrical.com December 2012

AL7 3PX

The flooring store that comes to your door

Carpets Vinyls Laminates Wood Adaptations & repairs l

l

for a free quotation call Ewen McPherson on

07966 463761 or

01707 338505 Email: info@eccarpets.com the pleasure is underfoot

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

29

SHOWCASE

BRIDGE COTTAGE PHARMACY 41 High Street, Welwyn, AL6 9EF

Open Mon to Sat 7am – 10pm, Sun 10am – 8pm 10% discount when you purchase non-prescription items Ask about our free medicine delivery service

01438 840240

CODICOTE PHARMACY 123 HIGH ST, CODICOTE, SG4 8UB 01438 821418

• FREE prescription collection from any surgery • FREE home delivery of medication & shopping • Passport photos & digital processing THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT PHARMACY

Replacement Woodburner Glass Postal Service

Fine Glass Finishers Ltd 01799 530655 fgfltd@aol.com

Need Extra Cash?

Part time – Full time – Your Time

Build your own business from the comfort of your own home.

If you are interested in making a substantial income through your own efforts please contact us.

07792 723971 07896 637639 Email: talkmighty@gmail.com

30

Want to kick your computer?

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

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

To The Roof

Codicote Online 0610.indd 1

TV Aerials and Satellite dishes installed by 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

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

COMPUTER PROBLEMS

Office Furniture & Interiors Space Planning Partitioning Suspended Ceilings Relocation / Move Management

01920 465 037 www.cupaz.com

GOT YOU

Local Affordable Domestic Cleaning No job too small www.la-cleaning.co.uk Lucinda@la-cleaning.co.uk 07972 705 389

Advertise here TO 15000 LOCAL CUSTOMERS FROM JUST £30pm!

CALL 01438 216950 Terms and conditions apply.

Round Robin Secretarial Support confidential, professional, affordable

You have read this ad too!

How can you not invest £30pm HERE to reach out to YOUR new customers?

CALL 01432 216950 Terms and conditions apply.

10/05/2010 18:41

Hourly rates No agency fees No employee costs CV writing also available Contact Nicky Morrison on 01462 625404 / 07531 547332 info@roundrobinsecretarial.co.uk www.roundrobinsecretarial.co.uk

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

December 2012

James Howe Landscapes Design

Construction

Maintenance

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

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

M: 07787 517372

T: 01438 820148

jameshowelandscapes@btinternet.com

Beauty Studio 160 High Street, Codicote, Herts, SG4 8UB

Treat yourself this Christmas to a full set of cal gel nails £22.50

Dermalogica facial £19.95 call 01438 820967 for an appointment Offers expiry date – January 2013

It’s a Snip 160 High Street, Codicote, Herts, SG4 8UB Full head foiled high lights wash cut & blow dry £50 with our hair Stylist with proof of this voucher call 01438 821180 for an appointment visit www.itsasnip.webs.com Offer expiry date – January 2013