Village Life Hitchin 1213

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ISSUE 53 : DECEMBER 2013

THE ORIGIN

OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE

Homestyle Interiors Codicote Community Choir

PLUS LOCAL BUSINESSES SHOWCASED • Codicote • Kimpton • Whitwell • Preston • Breachwood Green • Graveley • Little Wymondley • Great Wymondley • St. Ippolyts • Gosmore • Knebworth • Welwyn Village

Ricky Tyler Landscapes Grounds Maintenance & Landscaping

The Complete Garden Maintenance Company Grass Cutting • Hedge Cutting • Flower Beds Planting, Mulches and Lawn Care Ricky Tyler Landscapes can offer a full range of garden and grounds maintenance services whether a one off job or weekly maintenance visits, we can be of help.

Office: 01707 324 262 Mobile: 07986 224 095 ricky@rickytylerlandscapes.co.uk www.rickytylerlandscapes.co.uk

“Gardens that dreams are made of!”

WELCOME TO DECEMBER! Welcome to the December issue, the festive season is upon us and Santa will be doing his rounds before we know it; let’s hope you have been good boys and girls this year!

This month, we have more great features - Gaynor Dawson gives us advice on setting goals for 2014, Jonathan Vernon-Smith talks about how to stay safe when purchasing online and Leigh Goldsmith has written some festive articles.

We also hear about Codicote Community Choir which started as a conversation in a pub earlier this year and has now developed in to an 80 strong choir!

Finally we showcase local businesses Homestyle Improvements, the Car Agents and Peony Floral Boutique.

If you have a local story or run a local group which you would like us to feature then please get in touch.

CALL US: 01438 216950

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

EMAIL US: mail@villagelifemag.com

We hope you have a Wonderful Christmas and New Year and look forward to sharing more local news, stories and businesses in 2014!

Bye for now,

Jose & Melanie

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

CONTENTS 4:

Local news

6:

Wellbeing: Gaynor Dawson – Achieve that Goal in 2014

8:

Lifestyle:The Origin of The Christmas Tree

10:

Business: Homestyle Interiors

12:

Business:The Car Agents

16:

Lifestyle: How to purchase safely on the Winter-Web

18:

Business: Peony Floral Boutique

20:

Lifestyle: Hanging up the Apron at Christmas

24:

What’s on in December / Take a break

Where Can You Find Village Life?

Village Life Magazine has a readership of 17,500 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 2013

THE CAR AGENTS: PAGE 12

PEONY FLORAL BOUTIQUE: PAGE 18

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Melanie Saavedra 01438 216950 sales@villagelifemag.com Village Life is published monthly by MJS Publishing.

01438 216950, www.villagelifemag.com © 2013 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

C3 - Codicote Community Choir

C3, Codicote Community Choir, was formed by Mark Knapper in March this year following a conversation with a group of mates in the pub about Gareth Malone OBE – the famous English choirmaster and broadcaster. The conversation moved on to the idea of setting up a choir when one of Mark’s friends said, “it’s a pity we don’t know anybody who can conduct a choir!” To everyone’s surprise, Mark told them how he had conducted a choir when he was younger and asked his friends to leave it with him for a few weeks to see what he could do. Mark spoke to Rowan Patel who organises the Goatfest Festival in Codicote to see if he would be interested in featuring a Choir at the event. Rowan was very interested so Mark set off on a mission to put one together.

He sent out emails and texts to his contact list and had over 70 responses from people interested in being involved. Mark put the Choir together and they debuted at Goatfest in August. The performance went down really well and, as everyone was keen to continue performing, they decided to carry on rehearsing. Over the last few months, the Choir has

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grown from strength to strength with 80 members now and bookings in the diary in the run up to Christmas including events at Tesco (Roebuck) in Stevenage, an Old People’s Home, carol singing in Codicote, a Wedding and a Christmas Concert on 21st December.

The Choir sings modern music and so, rather than singing Christmas Carols at the Christmas Concert, they will be singing Christmas Number 1s including Slade, Band Aid, Mud, Wham, East 17, The Flying Pickets etc.

There is a real mix of people ranging from 16 to 79 years old with 60% women and 40% men, which is a great balance (choirs typically have 80% women to 20% men).

Codicote Choir meets weekly at The Goat in Codicote with rehearsals taking place in the barn at the back. There will be more events next year including a concert for Hertfordshire Youth Homeless, more weddings and Mark is even planning a Concert abroad in 2015!

Mark told us, “The Choir is great fun and people are really up for it. It’s really sociable and a lot of friendships have developed. We have people from all sorts of backgrounds and there are people who had seen each other for years in the Village but hadn’t actually had a chance to get to know each other until now.

We use technology for everything – organisation is done via email and there is no sheet music to learn so nobody has to read music. Once a song is chosen, a YouTube link is emailed to everyone so that Choir members can learn the song. At rehearsal, each song is practised and then recorded and then sent out to everyone either on CD or as an MP3. The following week we listen back to the recording to see where we need to make improvements.

It’s a very different way of running a choir – it makes things really inclusive and singing in the pub makes it very informal and sociable.”

For further information, contact Mark on mark.knapper@astralisgroup.com Twitter: CodComChoir Facebook: Codicote-Community-Choir

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

December 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

ST PAUL’S WALDEN SCHOOL Come and see our School in Action!

If you are looking for a school place for September 2014 we warmly invite you to view our school and meet our amazing children and staff.

Our children enjoy:

• An action packed curriculum and exciting Enrichment sessions • Inspirational teaching • Small classes and a high staff ratio • Excellent learning facilities • Enjoyable Forest School sessions • Specialist music and sports facilitators • Excellent KS2 results – English Level 4: 100%, Maths Level 4: 92% “Pupils’ enthusiasm and excellent behaviour contribute to their good achievement.” Ofsted, 2011 St Paul’s Walden School is situated in the village of Whitwell. Our pupils come from Whitwell village, the nearby towns of Hitchin and Letchworth and surrounding villages. We are only a 10 minute drive from Hitchin, Stevenage, Harpenden and Luton.

To book an appointment to visit our school, please contact us.

Telephone: 01438 871241; Email: admin@stpaulswalden.herts.sch.uk Find out more about our school at www.stpaulswalden.herts.sch.uk

Visit our beautiful

Bathroom Showroom ...With more than 50 displays of bathrooms, furniture & fittings Free in-house 3D design service Quality products from leading manufacturers Experienced staff offering impartial advice Free delivery within a 20 mile radius of our showroom

01438 725309

bathrooms@stevenageplumbing.co.uk www.stevenageplumbing.co.uk

Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS December 2013

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

5

WELLBEING

2014 – ACHIEVE THAT GOAL! As 2013 approaches its close, our thoughts turn to hopes, dreams and goals for the New Year ahead. Gaynor Dawson is a Behavioural Change Coach at Life Practice Hitchin, this month she gives us advice on setting and achieving goals.

C

hristmas is so close we can almost smell it now.

As one year approaches an end and another year peaks over the horizon, it’s only natural to look back and review the past twelve months. Did you achieve all you set out to in 2013? What went well for you this year? What do you wish you had done differently? What are your desired outcomes for 2014, what goals do you hope to achieve in the NewYear?

I work with clients on a daily basis to help them achieve their goals, whatever they may be. I begin every session, even the many sessions I do with children and young people, by establishing the desired outcome.What does the client want to achieve from the sessions? I encourage my clients to write down their goals – it is proven you are much more likely to achieve goals when you do so.

Goals need to be written in the “positive” – what is it you WANT, not what you DON’T WANT! It’smuch more effective to move towards pleasure rather them away from pain. So instead of writing “I don’t want to feel fat anymore” change it to “I want to lose a stone by March 2014” Rather than writing “I don’t want to feel stressed anymore” how about “I want to take back control of my life” and if you keep saying “I don’t want my child to be shy or suffer from low self-esteem” how about “I want my child to be confident in their abilities”

Once you have written your goal you then have to make it...

SMART:

SPECIFIC – What exactly is your desired outcome (“I want to overcome my fear of flying”)

MEASURABLE – How will you know when you’ve achieved your goal (“I will be able to go on a family holiday to America”) ACHIEVABLE – Is the goal something that you can achieve on your own and that you are in control of own or is it reliant on someone else (Yes, I am in control of it”) REALISTIC – Have other people achieved this goal? (“Yes other people have overcome their fear of flying”) TIMELY – Put a time scale on it, when exactly do you want to have achieved this by? (“March 2014”) Take a few moments to visualise yourself achieving your goal. Close your eyes and imagine its December 2014 and you’re looking back over the year and you’ve achieved all your desired outcomes!You’ve refused to settle for less than you hoped for, why should you?

Imagine you are exactly where you what to be in life.

Make the picture bigger, the colours more vibrant and the sounds clearer. Really enjoy all those feelings of having achieved your goals in 2014. Repeat this exercise every evening before you drop off to sleep and every morning as you start to wake up. See how positive you feel by doing this.

So those are my tips for effective goal setting. If you or your children are holding onto a phobia, a fear, stress or any other unwanted behaviour, ask yourself, why should I settle for that?Wouldn’t you rather be the best version of you and reach your full potential in 2014?

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and an incredible New Year.

info@lifepracticehitchin.co.uk www.lifepracticehitchin.co.uk Life Practice Hitchin, 30 Bancroft, Hitchin SG5 1LA 01462 337020 | 07714 781016 6

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

December 2013

James Howe Landscapes Design

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

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T: 01438 820148

jameshowelandscapes@btinternet.com

STEPPING BACK IN TIME

The Origin of The Christmas Tree Written By Leigh Goldsmith (lilylawler@googlemail.com)

T

here is much speculation as to the origin of the Christmas tree. Some have claimed that the concept of the Christmas tree or a festive tree can be traced back through the centuries to ancient England and France, where Druids were known to have decorated oak trees with fruit and candles to honour their Gods. In other areas of Europe, the tree had other connotations, for example in Northern Europe,Vikings saw evergreen trees as a reminder that the green of spring would return at the end of the cold dark winter. However, it is believed that the modern form of Christmas tree and the decorative values associated with it , for example, the illuminating of the Christmas tree started in Germany in 1536 by the religious reformer Martin Luther.The story goes, one night as Martin Luther walked home through a forest near his home in Wittenburg, he looked up, only to be dazzled by the stars shining brightly through the branches of the trees.The sight was so beautiful, it inspired him to place a candle-lit fir tree inside his home at Christmas, to remind his children of the Heavens where their Saviour came from.

8

By early 1600, in other areas of Germany, box trees or yews were often decorated and placed indoors at Christmas instead of firs. It is this tradition that arrived in England from Germany with the future Queen Charlotte in 1761. Queen Charlotte quickly transformed the essentially private family ceremony of decorating the yew branch, into a large affair incorporating the entire Royal Household. By 1800, she had gone a step further and decided to decorate an entire yew tree in time for a grand Christmas party in Windsor.The large tree was placed in the drawing room at the Queen’s Lodge. It was decorated with tinsel, glitter, glass, fruit and presents.The tree became an enchanting spectacle for everyone. By the early 1800’s the Christmas tree was fast becoming popular in upper class society.The candle-lit tree continued to rise in popularity and by the time of Queen Charlotte’s death in 1818, the Christmas tree was well established in society.

However, it was not until the 1840’s when Prince Albert imported several spruce fir trees from his native Germany, that newspapers and magazines began documenting the Royal Christmas tree tradition. By 1860, almost every well off family in the country displayed a beautiful, glittering, candle-lit tree in their home at Christmas.

Today, much has changed with regards our choice of tree and the decoration of our tree. Our method of illuminating the tree has certainly transformed from candle light to electric lighting or battery operated lights.We now occasionally opt for artificial trees as opposed to a real tree.Whatever our decision, the concept remains the same, and each year millions of people around the world come together to decorate their tree and their homes to celebrate the magic of Christmas.

There are several Christmas tree specialists around Hertfordshire. One of such is Dane End Christmas Tree Farm and is located at Highview Farm, Dane End, Nr Ware, SG12 0LP.There is also The Magic of Christmas The located at Old Rectory Farm,Walkern, Nr Stevenage, SG2 7PD.

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

December 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

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December 2013

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9

BUSINESS

HomeStyle Interiors 01525 633448 07956 222299 www.homestyle-interiors.co.uk

H

omeStyle Interiors provide a wide range of skills to improve your home including Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing, Plastering, Decorating, Tiling and Flooring.The business was established by Phil Claridge in the late eighties. Phil had worked for a major building company on various sites across the counties, however he felt his talent was restricted. His real passion was for interior projects which gave him the opportunity to learn different trades and work with clients on their specific requirements.

Homestyle Interiors are unique as Phil has made it his mission to deliver the home improvement project of your dreams – the ability to deliver high-quality, ingenious solutions which is the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics.

As a fully qualified City & Guilds Advanced Carpenter and Joiner, Phil has expanded his trades to include plumbing, electrics, plastering, decorating and tiling – enabling him to complete your entire project himself, without the need for other tradesmen. His reputation for problem solving, eye for detail and delivering the very finest results means he has many returning loyal customers.

Phil told us, “We have invested heavily in design software (ArtiCAD®) to show customers how their kitchen, bathroom or bedroom project idea might translate. It is sometimes difficult for customers to visualise what their ideas might look like.We can create a stunning room presentation – featuring accurate, dimensioned and to-scale plans, elevation drawings, birds-eye views and photo realistic impressions. ArtiCAD’s photorealistic images allow customers to see clearly what their design will look like in reality.When I visit a customer, their project will be discussed in the comfort of their own home using product catalogues and a portfolio of previous work. Initial plans and drawings can then be supplied using the software along with a detailed quotation. Emphasis on budget management and scheduling of all activities ensures a smooth and successful completion of all projects – we are constantly seeking to exceed client expectations.”

For further information call Phil on 01525 633448, 07956 222299 or visit www.homestyle-interiors.co.uk 10

“I think Homestyle Interiors have made me very proud of my home and I love showing it to whoever comes to visit. All my work has been done in good taste and I can’t praise Phil enough and will always call on him for more work when needed!”

“The workmanship is meticulous and you can be assured that the finish will be stunning. Attention to detail is in the forefront of their philosophy.They are truly passionate about what they do and it shows.

I found them by chance on the internet, and thank my lucky stars that I did.”

“We called in Phil and his team when we bought a house to renovate.

Over a period of weeks we saw the house transform into a lovely home.

The overall completion has been amazing – Phil and his team knocked down walls, undertook major plumbing works, re-designed and installed a new kitchen, bathroom and downstairs toilet – all making use of every inch of space.”

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

December 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

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13/04/2011 12:5011

BUSINESS

A unique service that’s a labour of love!

The Car Agents – passionate about buying & selling Sports, Prestige & Classic Cars

E

xcellence is the watchword at The Car Agents’ stunning Auto Lounge in Brand Street, Showroom in Queen Street and Showroom in Jubilee Road Letchworth.

With more than 30 years’ experience in the motor trade, owner Simon Michell understands the importance of providing a high-quality service that’s as slick as the cars he sells.

After only 2 years of operating from the Auto Lounge and handling over 500 top of range cars, Simon has decided to expand the business by adding two showrooms at other locations in Hertfordshire.This is to enable his clients to not only have more choice of stock, but also to feel and touch the collection of beautiful cars.

What really sets The Car Agents apart is the quality of the personalised service they provide – and by listening to their clients needs, they are now adding showrooms for comfortable viewing. Also a Personal & Business Leasing arm to the business has been launched, so they can now supply NEW cars on either a straight cash purchase or a fixed monthly payment, normally subsidised by the manufacturers.With some of the best rates around and a part exchange facility, you don’t need to go anywhere else!

“We’re now a one-stop-shop for buying & selling Sports or Prestige cars,” said Simon.

If you’d like to find out more about Simon’s unique and highly effective approach to buying or selling a new or used Audi, Aston Martin, Bentley, BMW, Jaguar, Range Rover, MINI or Porsche, call into The Car Agents’ Auto Lounge and you will be pleasantly surprised.

Main Office Telephone: 01462 441460 Out of hours Telephone: 07824 600769 Auto Lounge: 7 Brand Street, Hitchin. SG5 1HX Showroom: 34 Queen Street, Hitchin. SG4 9TS and Jubilee Road, Letchworth. SG6 1NP www.thecaragents.com simon@thecaragents.com 12

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

December 2013

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

December 2013

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

13

LIFESTYLE

How to purchase safely on the Winter-Web The internet has been with us since the mid 90s. Whilst it has of course brought some fantastic benefits to our lives, it has also created some absolute headaches as well.

T

he fact the entire world is accessible in our homes is a wonderful thing, but it is worth noting that there are lots of internet companies out there, particularly those in other countries that can provide a less than desirable service. So how can you protect yourself against these companies, particularly when making purchases for Christmas?

The most important thing you can do, is to of course avoid buying items from dodgy internet companies in the first place. It sounds simple, but you’d be amazed how many people still find some weird company online that nobody’s ever heard of and hand over hundreds of pounds.

They are then amazed when they find themselves out of pocket without the goods they’ve ordered.

Therefore, always make sure you research the internet company you are planning to buy from. Find out where they’re based, look for a UK telephone number, check reviews and complaints about them so you know exactly who you’re dealing with. Ensure that their delivery timeframe will ensure your gifts will arrive in plenty of time for Christmas.

Make sure you’re paying a sensible price. If a company is selling an item at a ridiculously low price compared to all other companies, there’s usually a reason why. Often the items are fake. Over the years I’ve dealt with my fair share of customers who thought they were getting a great deal with ‘Ugg boots’ or ‘GHD hair straighteners’, only to find they’ve bought fakes from a company abroad.

You should always pay for goods by credit card but particularly when buying over the internet. It is worth noting that you are not protected by the consumer credit act unless you’re paying over £100, but you’re still more likely to get your money back using a credit card rather than debit card, cheque or bank transfer. I would go so far

as to say you should NEVER buy goods from a company that asks you to transfer money directly into their account.

If you decide you’re going to buy Christmas presents from an online auction site like ebay, it is worth familiarising yourself with their safety advice.You generally have fewer rights when buying goods in this way, particularly if they are second hand. Paying by paypal and ensuring that you NEVER collect items in person will go some way to protecting yourself. Only buy from highly rated sellers, based in the UK. It is worth remembering that when you buy brand new items over the internet, you are protected by the distance selling regulations. Because you haven’t had the chance to see the item in the flesh, you have 7 days from delivery to change your mind and send it back for a full refund. Unless the company specifies their returns postage policy, then they are liable for the postage too. Make sure you order things online in plenty of time to allow for this, after all, you don’t want unhappy friends and relatives whose presents are NOT under the tree.

Written by Jonathan Vernon-Smith presenter of the Award Winning JVS Show on BBC Three Counties Radio.

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

December 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Personal, caring and independent.

The complete funeral service 24 2 4 hour hour service ser vice • P Private rivate C Chapels h ap e l s o off R Rest est •M Memorial emorial SStonemasons tonemasons • FFuneral un neral P Plans lans •O Own wn C Crematorium rematorium

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21/11/11 09:52:14

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 Now also at Bury Lane, Bramfield – 01992 536 110 December 2013

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17

BUSINESS

Peony Floral Boutique

Christmas is Coming...

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s I’m sure you are aware there have been some changes at Peony.We are now operating on an order only basis.We are looking to re-locate from the shop in Codicote to a unit locally, where we will be undertaking wedding, funeral and event work.

On the run up to Christmas we will be supplying our usual hand decorated door wreaths, table arrangements and gift flowers. Please call us on the above numbers to place your order.You will be able to collect items from the shop and we will also be doing local deliveries.

We are currently selling off our range of gifts so there are plenty of bargains to be had. Please feel free to text or call us to find out when we will be at the shop, as we are no longer there every day.

We would like to thank all our lovely customers who have supported us in Codicote over the last five years and hope that you will continue to do so once we have moved.

We are now taking bookings for weddings & events next year.

We are keeping the same phone numbers 01438 821888/ 07815 758337, website www.peonyflorist.co.uk and email mail@peonyflorist.co.uk 121 High St, Codicote SG4 8UA 01438 821888 www.peonyflorist.co.uk 18

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

December 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Build a brighter future for your child Kip McGrath’s qualified teachers create individual tutoring programmes for your child, using proven Kip McGrath methods of tuition.

Maths Reading Call today English Spelling for a FREE Comprehension assessment STEVENAGE • 01438 365467 19-21 Middle Row, Stevenage SG1 3AW

December 2013

kipmcgrath.co.uk/stevenage

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

19

LIFESTYLE

Hanging up the Apron at Christmas Written By Leigh Goldsmith (lilylawler@googlemail.com)

T

he rigorous routine in the kitchen at Christmas can be traumatic for even the most hardened chef. For many, the daunting task of preparing the perfect Christmas lunch for loved ones can be overwhelming. Indeed, it is not many of us who inhibit the culinary skills needed to deliver on the day. As a result, more and more people are opting for an easier and more relaxed option, eating out.

For centuries, the Christmas lunch has been the high point of the Christmas celebrations for most families. In Victorian times, Christmas Day centered around the Christmas dinner.The table was adorned with the best china and linen, and it was food that took centre stage, not gifts.

However, over the last 10 years, eating out on Christmas Day has become increasingly popular. Families are opting to

avoid slaving in the kitchen on Christmas morning, trading the stress for a relaxing lunch while being pampered and served in a restaurant or hotel. More and more hotels, restaurants and pubs are offering Christmas Day packages, and this year, many have advised potential customers to book in advance to secure a table for Christmas, due to the rise in popularity.

There is a huge range of packages on offer in the area this Christmas. From middle of the road to top end, there is a package to suit everyone: The Old Forge in Stevenage, London Road, Stevenage, SG2 8DT.Tel: 01438 351 854, Christmas dinner is £43.99 per person.

Tewin Bury Farm, B1000 Hertford, AL6 0JB. Tel: 01438 717 793, £89.95 for Four Courses. £44.95 per child (age 4-12), Children aged 3 & under are complimentary.

Brocket Hall,Welwyn, AL8 7XG.Tel: 01707 335 241, Five Course Christmas Day Lunch Menu, £160 per person.

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

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

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

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

Sea Port Departures & Arrivals

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

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

01438 812615

www.airportdirectcars.co.uk 1 20 Airport Cars Direct HP 0111 2.indd Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

20/01/2011 10:09 December 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Are you a local

Personal Trainer

looking for more business?

Village Life is looking for a reliable Personal Trainer to advertise in the magazine.

If you would like to come on board and advertise your company to 17,500 readers each month, we will offer low advertising rates & some free editorial.

Contact Melanie on

01483 216 950

There are times when some of us need advice with family matters.

Obtaining legal advice and assistance however can be an expensive process particularly if you have to pay for the costs of instructing both a Solicitor and a Barrister.

Under the new Public Access rules clients can now instruct a Barrister directly without having to first see a Solicitor thus potentially saving a huge amount of time and money.

If you need specialist advice or assistance and want to instruct a barrister then please contact me on

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Jeffrey Deegan

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December 2013

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

For Specialist Matrimonial Advice

JCS SOLICITORS Divorce & Separation Cohabitation

FENCING SN MAINTENANCE

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

Andrew Sinclair ELECTRICIAN

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

Need help with your PC?

SN Fencing 0311.indd 1

All domestic electrical work undertaken from a socket to a rewire 20 years experience City & Guilds qualified

Kitchens Bathrooms Fusebox changes

16/02/2011 09:18

 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

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Call for a free quotation Tel: 01438 832 673 Mob: 07796 648 930

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

127 High Street, Kimpton, Herts, SG4 8QN 22

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

25 To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call Melanie on 01438 216December 950 2013 Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

VILLAGE LIFE

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

MIKE GREER Painter & Decorator

Established in Welwyn & Knebworth since 1998 Interior & Exterior Painting, Decorating & Papering

 Respectful to  your home  Reliable &  Friendly Service     01707 880 256 

Tel: 01462 435 873 Tel: 01462 435 873 Mobile: 07717 744274

07968 100 619

Mob: 07717 744 274

lage Tree Services 0310 QP.indd 1

22/02/2010 13:46

5 Pondcroft

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory please call Melanie on 01438 216Garden 950 City23 Welwyn

Water

is the most important substance in the world

But not all water is created equal.

Kangen Water™ is rich in minerals with all impurities removed, restructured and ionised using our patented advanced technology.

Providing the perfect balance of health and hydration.

Kangen Water™ is refreshing with a wonderful taste and saves money compared with buying bottled water.

It’s easy to create your own healthy water!

With a Kangen home unit!

For further information contact 07891 953 352 / 01438 723723

www.miraclewaterforyou.info

For reviews about KangenWater please seeYouTube videos at your leisure December 2013

Hertfordshire AL7 3PX

THE FLOORING STORE THAT COMES TO YOUR DOOR

Carpets Vinyls Laminates Wood Adaptations & repairs l

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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

23

WHAT’S ON

What’s on in DECEMBER...

Throughout December until Tue 24th Breakfast and Tea with Santa, Stevenage Garden Centre, North Road/Graveley Road, Stevenage SG1 4AH

Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th Dec, 2.30pm - 4pm Matinee / 8pm - 10pm Evening Christmas music at Knebworth House, Knebworth SG1 2AX

A delight for children of all ages as they meet Santa, choose a present and receive a gingerbread man to decorate. To book call 0844 288 5182, www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk

Doyle Dykes – one of the world’s finest exponents of country acoustic guitar playing in the magical setting of the Banqueting Hall. Tickets are £21.50 available at www.knebworthhouse.com or on 01438 812661.

Sunday 15th Dec, 9.30am-4.00pm Biggleswade Antiques Fair, The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH

Throughout December until Tuesday 24th Dec, Daily 10am to 5.30pm (closes 4pm Christmas Eve) Santa’s Spectacular Grotto & Festive Fun, Willows Farm Village. Coursers Road, London Colney, AL4 0PF

Over 45 stalls offering a range of antiques from jewellery, glass, china, pictures, postcards, kitchenalia and militaria. 07906 647346, www.madisonevents.co.uk. Admission £1.50

14th, 15th, 18th, 20th Dec to Tue 24 Dec, Fri 27 Dec to Tue 31 Dec, 7.30pm (Matinee 2.30pm) Peter Pan the Musical, The Barn Theatre, Handside Lane, W.G.C AL8 6ST In 1985 Piers Chater Robinson adapted J.M. Barrie’s book for the stage and now his innovative Peter Pan the Musical score is well known and loved, performed in professional and amateur productions all over the world. Doors open 7pm. Tickets on 01707 324300 or www.barntheatre.co.uk/peter-pan/event/201660

Saturday 14th Dec and Sunday 15th Dec, 11am-4pm Festive Family Fun Trail, Wrest Park, Silsoe Luton MK45 4HR We need your help to solve our festive mystery at Wrest Park! Bring along the whole family to crack the clues and earn your prize. An English Heritage event. Suitable for Families. Booking Not Necessary.

Meet Santa, visit the reindeer, write a letter to Santa in the Elves House and skate on our magical synthetic ice rink. Farmyard animals to meet and plenty of under cover play. Call 0870 129 9718 or visit www.willowsfarmvillage.com

Friday 20th to Tuesday 31st Dec Peter Pan: by Piers Chater Robinson, Barn Theatre, Handside Lane, W.G.C AL8 6ST Tickets £11. Contact 01707 324300 or visit www.barntheatre.co.uk/peter-pan/event/201660

Monday 23th Dec 2013 & Fri 3rd Jan, 9.30am-3.30pm Hitchin Town FC Xmas Holiday Football Courses, The Arena, Norton Road, Baldock SG7 5AU Open to 4-12 year old boys & girls, £15 per child per day. www.northhertsarena.co.uk/holiday_camps.htm GET YOUR EVENT LISTED FOR FREE HERE, EMAIL: mail@villagelifemag.com or call us on 01438 216 950

Take a Break…

ACROSS 8. Gigantic (11) 10. Scarlet (3) 11. Jamaican spirit (3) 12. Odd (7) 15. Young bovine (4) 16. Australasian bird (4) 17. A pasty is this (7) 19. Scandinavian (5) 20. Boredom (5) 21. Lacking genitalia of any type (7) 22. Texan city (5) 24. South Asian country (5) 26. Rare astrological event (7) 29. Possesses (4) 30. Circular object (4) 31. Stun with fear (7) 35. Anger (3) 36. Drinking establishment (3) 37. Conflictingly impossible (11)

24

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

DOWN 1. Trouble-maker (7) 2. Athenian god (4) 3. Popular female singer (4) 4. Painful if this is placed in the groin (4) 5. Medical container (4) 6. Variant (7) 7. Paralysing fear of web spinners (13) 9. Connection between mother & child (9,4) 13. Unknown craft (3) 14. Donkey (3) 17. Ends (5) 18. This is double in genetics (5) 23. Idea (7) 25. A footballing skill (7) 27. What’s that in French? (3) 28. Clumsy fool (3) 31. Mound of wood (for burning bodies) (4) 32. Incoming water (4) 33. Aussie rock band (4) 34. What a horrid mess (4)

December 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Are you a local

HOMEOPATH

looking for more business?

Village Life is looking for a reliable Homeopath to advertise in the magazine.

If you would like to come on board and advertise your company to 17,500 readers each month, we will offer low advertising rates & some free editorial.

Contact Melanie on

01483 216 950 Sash Window Specialists

Full Window Refurbishment Draft Proofing Major & Minor Repairs Double Glazing Existing Sashes City & Guilds Qualified We aim to conserve as much of your original window as possible 01438 833354 07923 954860 www.hertssashwindowrepair.co.uk info@reevesandholdsworth.co.uk

December 2013

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

25

SHOWCASE

JORDAN

OIL BURNER SERVICES ESTABLISHED 1968

An Independent Oil Boiler Maintenance Company Offering: REGULAR ANNUAL SERVICING COMMISSIONING • BREAKDOWN SERVICE OFTEC Registered & Certificated by Major Manufacturers.

01438 355583 / 07831 364607 www.jordanoil.co.uk

I.B HYDE & SON

LOOKING FOR

A RELIABLE WINDOW CLEANER TO ADVERTISE HERE

CALL

01438 216 950 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

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01438 811191 07985 756636

COMPUTER PROBLEMS

Want to kick your computer?

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

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

18/09/2013 LOOKING FOR A RELIABLE MUSIC TEACHER TO ADVERTISE HERE. CALL

Herts Aerials SHW 0913.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

01438 840240

Herts Aerials

PROFESSIONAL AERIAL SERVICES · TV Aerial Installs • · Storm Damage Repairs • · Improving Poor Reception • • Same Day Service Available • • No Call Out Charge • • All Work Guaranteed •

GOT YOU

09:24 Codicote Online 0610.indd 1

10/05/2010 18:41

You have read this ad too!

How can you not invest £25pm HERE to reach out to YOUR new customers?

01438 216 950

CALL 01438 216 950

CODICOTE PHARMACY

CODICOTE CAT CARE

123 HIGH ST, CODICOTE, SG4 8UB 01438 821418

Home feeding service for cats & small animals

• FREE prescription collection from any surgery • FREE home delivery of medication & shopping • Passport photos & digital processing • NHS & Private Flu jabs available here

ADVERTISE HERE TO 17500 LOCAL CUSTOMERS

JUST £99 for 4 months

CALL 01438 216 950 Includes design of advert

Terms and conditions apply.

• Great alternative to a cattery

while you are away

• Your animal will be

fed & spoilt rotten

• Daily text messages

& pictures sent to you

07951 532633

codicotecatcare@icloud.com

LOOKING FOR A RELIABLE HOUSE CLEANER TO ADVERTISE HERE. CALL

01438 216 950

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

December 2013

ACOLINE WATER SOFTENERS LTD

Non Electric Block Salt Softeners Uses up to 60% Less Salt 10 Year Guarantee Purchase or Lease Rental FREE Salt Delivery We Repair ALL Makes of Water Softener

VP/TP Š

Telephone & request a brochure or book a free demonstration 104 Ampthill Road, Shefford, Beds, SG17 5BB

01462 811487 w w w. a c o l i n e s o f t e n e r s . c o . u k