Village Life Hitchin June 2013

VillageLife Lifestyle | Business | Community www.villagelifemag.com

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ISSUE 47 : June 2013

A History of Codicote Hunt for the uk’s best picnic spot NGS – Where Gardens & Charity Unite

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

WELCOME to June!

As we write this mid May, it has been a funny month with a mixture of sun and rain and yet another hopeless result at Eurovision. Let’s hope that June brings us lots of sunshine and no more rain!

This month we find out about the National Garden Scheme (NGS) whose events are often listed in the What’s On section. We feature Letchworth Eagles Youth Football Club, Home Start Stevenage (a charity helping families with young children) and other local stories. We have a great feature on the History of Codicote written by Nicholas Maddex from Codicote Local History Society. We would like to thank Nicholas for writing the article and also Colin Barker for supplying the images.

If you have a local story or run a local group which you would like us to showcase then please get in touch. We are also looking for local photos so if you are a budding photographer with images taken in the Village Life area, contact us for the chance for your photo to feature on our cover!

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

Bye for now,

Jose & Melanie

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

Contents 4:

Local news

6:

Wellbeing: Rose Todd – Where are you going?

8:

Community:Where Gardens & Charity Unite

10:

Community: Roman Relics handed to Welwyn School

14-15: Community: A History of Codicote 16:

Community: Home Start Stevenage

18:

Community: Letchworth EaglesYouth Football

20:

Lifestyle: Hunt for UK’s best picnic spot

24:

What’s on in June / 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.

June 2013

roman relics: page 10

home start: page 16

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

LOTTERY FUNDING ADVICE COMES TO RURAL STEVENAGE The Big Lottery Fund is holding a free funding event for organisations based in and around the rural areas of Stevenage on Thursday 20th June in Knebworth.

Stephen McPartland, Member of Parliament for Stevenage, will be opening the briefing event for representatives of not-for-profit and community groups, schools, and parish councils based in the area and looking for funding. Representatives from the Arts Council, Heritage Lottery Fund and Sport England will also be speaking about funding and support available from their individual organisations.

Stephen McPartland said, “This is a fantastic opportunity for local groups to come and discuss their projects first hand with the Lottery family. I am very grateful to the Big Lottery Fund for organising this event with me as I know there is a huge demand for more Lottery money to be given to good causes locally. I am impressed by their willingness to help us

access the funding they have available and look forward to a very successful event.”

Sacha Rose-Smith, Big Lottery Fund Head of Policy and Learning, England Directorate, said: “We want to encourage not-for-profit and community groups, schools and parish councils who have an idea for a specific project that will make a real difference to the lives of people in the local rural community to attend this event. It is a stepping stone to securing the funds which could get project ideas off the ground and it is also a great opportunity to network with other groups who may be able to share their funding experiences.”

People who wish to attend must book a place and full details of times and the address will be given via email closer to the event. To find out more or book, email regionevents.ea@biglotteryfund.org.uk

A Journey into Space

Theatrical Evening at Knebworth House 26th July On 26th July, you can enjoy a theatrical evening at Knebworth House. Local actor Keith Baldwin is reading from Three Men in a Boat, the amusing period classic by Jerome K Jerome. Tickets are £20 per person including a glass of Pimms and a fruit tart on arrival. It will be a very special evening as the reading will be held in the Banqueting Hall at Knebworth House. Evening starts at 7.30pm with doors opening at 7pm. Book online at www.knebworthhouse.com or by calling 01438 810931 (£1.50 booking fee for telephone bookings).

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Did you know Stevenage has always been at the forefront of the UK space industry and a leader in Europe for 60 years?

Would you like to go on a fascinating space journey full of rockets, satellites and moon landings? And touch and feel real satellite materials and components?

Then come to Alistair Scott’s illustrated talk, A Journey into Space, and hear more. Alistair’s talk is aimed at all ages, as this year’s Knebworth Festival Celebrity Talk and sponsored by Knebworth Twinning Association. As well as rockets and satellites, he will talk about moon and planetary missions, and will also cover the British Interplanetary Society and the role that British Aerospace and Astrium in Stevenage have played in the development of the space industry.

Alistair is President of the British Interplanetary Society and worked for British Aerospace and Astrium in Stevenage for over 30 years. He will bring along real satellite materials and components for you to touch and feel as well as souvenir merchandise.

The talk will be on Thursday June 27th in Knebworth Village Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets include a drink and nibbles and are £2 for children (under 16) and £10 for adults. Please call 01438 940594 or send an sae and cheque to KTA, 12 Stonecroft, Knebworth SG3 6BL. Or at the door on the night.

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

June 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

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

5

WELLBEING

Rose Todd The Law of Attraction and Conscious Living

Where are you going?

When I was a lot younger than I am now, a folk song called ‘I Know Where I’m Going’ was popular. This song always evoked pangs of envy within me.

How I longed to know where I was going, and why.

I

t has taken me several decades to get some clarity. One of the things that worried me was that, if I didn’t know where I was going – how would I know when, or if, I had actually arrived?

Do you know where you’re going?

Things are different now.We know that we create our own lives and science has proved it.This means that your journey through life is not left to the whim of fate, but to the choices you have and to the decisions you make. In a nutshell, you can choose what you want in life - choose where you want to go and what you want to do.Then you guide your thoughts by focusing on what you want, and begin to take actions that will move you closer to where you want to be.

There is more than this involved in consciously living your dream life. It takes time, discipline and patience – as anything worthwhile does – but, unfortunately, these things seem to be in short supply nowadays.

Decades ago, there was no-one to walk with me. I worked it out for myself. It was almost as if I was blazing

a trail. Having a like-minded person, who not only has walked the road, but helped to make the map, is extremely useful.

Having such a guide can save a lot of heartache.

If you wake each morning tired, and feel there has to be more to life, or feel that life is passing you by, then you might like to consider some Coaching. Coaching can help you find a happier path to follow – one that fills you with enthusiasm and joy. I’d be delighted to walk with you until you feel confident enough to walk alone.

Life is a real joy when you know where you’re going!

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Special offer is £25 for one hour’s personal coaching.

4 sessions over 2 months is £100. www.rosetodd.com 6

rose@rosetodd.com

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

07748 021 887 June 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

‘It’s a snip’ Codicote... would like to introduce a new member to the team!

Our hair stylist Andie has over 14 years experience in the industry and training at the Toni&Guy Academy, London and is on hand to give you that fresh new summer look, take advantage of this exclusive, one time offer of

25% off all hair services, including colour!

Book a free, no obligation consultation Call 01438 821180 for an appointment Also at the ‘beauty studio’... (situated at the rear of the salon) we have a new therapist Tara and have a fantastic offer for June,

Gellux manicure and pedicure for £35 usually £50 Call 01438 820967 to book an appointment 25% off your first appointment!

Call Andie at It’s a Snip on 01438 821180 Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer

June 2013

Gellux Manicure and Pedicure £35 usually £50!

Call the beauty studio on 01438 820967 Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer

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

7

community

Where Gardens & Charity Unite

V

isiting open gardens and charitable giving are both particularly British activities and the National Gardens Scheme brings the two together in one enjoyable day out.The NGS raises money to support nursing, caring and gardening charities by organising open garden days throughout England and Wales and, since its inception in 1927, has grown with the support of garden owners and volunteers to become the single largest benefactor for not only the Queen’s Nursing Institute, but also Macmillan, Marie Curie and Help The Hospices. Other beneficiaries of the NGS include Cross Roads Care, Perennial and the National Trust as well as a guest charity each year, which for 2013 is Parkinson’s UK. This month offers a fantastic opportunity to get out and visit a delightful range of gardens in Hertfordshire, partaking in the essential cup of tea and homemade cake while supporting these very deserving and vital causes.

Open on Sunday 9th June is the 60 acre garden at St Paul’s Walden Bury, which has opened for the NGS every year since 1927. It offers its garden visitors a unique insight into 18th century garden design with a particularly French influence. Birthplace of the late Queen Mother and home to the Bowes-Lyons since the 1700s, this Grade 1 listed formal woodland garden features long undulating rides flanked by clipped beech hedges, rhododenron and magnolia walks and offers views to temples, statues and a large lake.

Visitors to the Wednesday 12th June open evening at Hitchin Lavender at Cadwell Farm, Ickleford have the freedom to wander among the hypnotic undulations of richly hued lavender flowers that ripple in bulbous rows gently up the slope and picking a small bunch to take home is actively encouraged.

An all day and evening opening on Sunday 16th June at Rustling End Cottage near Codicote will be certain to suit any schedule as well as to cater to all gardening tastes with its seamless blend of cottage garden structure and

contemporary plantings.Topiary, wildflowers, a reflecting pool and a vegetable plot can all be found within this fascinating garden surrounding a red brick cottage.

And towards the end of the month,Woodhall Park is open on Sunday 23rd June. Located near Watton-at-Stone this 4 acre garden was created from parkland surrounding an 18th century stable block. A varied and beautifully arranged garden, recently celebrating its 30th anniversary of opening, it provides visitors with elevated views over the surrounding parkland as well as impressively managed formal lawns, herbaceous borders and rose beds.

Whatever your preferred garden style, you’ll be sure to have a most interesting day out at an NGS garden opening. All admission, location and opening details for these and other NGS garden openings can be found at www.ngs.org.uk 8

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

June 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

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21/10/2010 10:46

Emily’s Tea Shop & Waterhall Farm

Peter and Maxine welcome you to visit Emily’s Teashop, a small family run Teashop on a working farm in Whitwell. Based in a converted 19th Century barn they serve delicious homemade cakes, light lunches, and Fairtrade beverages.

Situated in a lovely area of the countryside, perfect for cyclists, families and walkers with various walks easily accessible around the farm and local area. The farm is free to visit and there is also a beautiful ‘secret Garden’ to explore and enjoy.

Open Tue to Sun 10am till 5 pm Tel 01438 871928 Visit facebook.com/EmilysTeashop Our postcode is SG4 8AF. Please access us via the track off the Hitchin Road and do not park on ‘The Valley’ as this causes problems with our neighbours who are unable to park near their properties.

While at Waterhall Farm, visit The Linen Chest to find high quality gifts and cards for all occasions made and sold by local crafts people. These include hand painted wooden plaques and flower pots, quilted cushions and wall hangings, scented candles, a range of bags, jewellery, painted glass, bird boxes and much more!

07966 379810 thelinenchest@hotmail.com www.thelinenchestatwaterhall.co.uk (coming soon) June 2013

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

9

community

Roman relics handed over to Welwyn school ROMAN artefacts including bones, pottery, glass and ceramics have been handed over for display at a Welwyn school. The archaeological finds were discovered in 2011, when developers dug holes to lay foundations for new homes at Trevena Gardens, near to Welwyn St Mary’s School, which is the beneficiary of the artefacts.

In the June 2012 edition we featured a story about Netherdown who found the items. Netherdown (Herts) Ltd is a local family firm of house builders and developers that have been trading from Welwyn Garden City for over 30 years.

Paulina Craig, who works for Netherdown Homes, said: “It was Left to right – James Norman 11, Paulina Craig from Netherdown Homes, Noya Avniel 11, head Mary Westley, done at an assembly and the teachers explained to the children Isabel Ward 8, history subject leader Wendy Platt, that when they dug a big hole to build houses the artefacts Wesley Watts 9 were unearthed.

“There was a good reaction from pupils and some of the children stuck up their hands to say “Roman” when asked what time period the artefacts were from.”

The historical remains included a human jawbone complete with teeth and examples of pottery and ceramics from the period when Britain, or Britannia as it was then, was a province of Rome.

Asked about the new display, headteacher Mary Westley said: “Children and parents love them. They are amazed they are real, it was a great success. Eyes are glued to the cabinet and they are really looking forward to being able to handle some of the other artefacts soon. The history club is especially excited.”

It is thought the area where the homes are now built, Trevena Gardens – named after former Welwyn St Mary’s head Kit Trevena – was part of an ancient road from St Albans to Colchester, which were both major Roman settlements.

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June 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

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

21/11/11 09:52:14

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community

The history of Codicote Codicote is a large village eight miles south of Hitchin. It has an excellent school and many active societies. The population of the parish, including its many hamlets, is in the region of 3,000.

A

Bronze Age burial mound was discovered by archaeologists in the 1950s overlying a round house of the same period on Codicote Heath, and in the 1980s an Iron Age settlement was found near the St. Albans Road. Part of the boundary with the parish of Kimpton is thought by some to be on the line of an Iron Age and later Roman road.

The name “Codicote” derives from the cottage of a man named something like “Cudda”.This type of place name suggests a secondary settlement later on in the Saxon period from a nearby earlier settlement. Shortly before the Norman Conquest in 1066 there was a second estate in what is now the parish, named “Oxwich”. It is not known where in the parish this lay, but it may have been associated with Fulling Mill in the south. In 1002 A.D. these belonged to the crown in the person of King Aethelred the Unready.

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He sold them to his “faithful minister” Aelfelm.The latter in turn gave them to the Abbot and Chapter of St. Albans Abbey, which owned them for the next 500 years. By the time of the Domesday Book in 1086 the two manors were combined as one.

Early in the middle ages there may not have been a compact village, but just a series of small groups of houses, some of which perhaps survive as today’s hamlets of Nup End, Rabley Heath, Potters Heath, Codicote Bottom, Driver’s End, etc. In the centre of the parish a church was built and dedicated to St. Giles in about 1110 by Bishop Ralph of Rochester. It has a side chapel dedicated to the Holy Innocents. Alterations and extensions since then mean that only the lowest stage of the tower remains from this time, with the rest dating to the 13th and 14th centuries.

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

June 2013

community

In the 13th century the then abbot must have decided to maximise his income from Codicote. He obtained from the king a grant of a Friday market in 1067 (not as stated on the signs at the entrances to the village!) and then a four day fair at St. James’s tide in 1271.This was probably the origin of the present village astride the junction of the roads from Welwyn to Hitchin and Bedford, and from Wheathampstead to Stevenage.The market ceased in the Tudor period and much of the old market place has, as so often, since been built over but an open triangle, known a little perversely as “The Hill” remains at Codicote’s heart.

A hostelry faced this area on or near the site of today’s “AsYou Like it” restaurant from at least 1279.

In 1381 Codicote residents rose up against the abbot at the time of the Peasants’ Revolt, and one man from the village, Stephen Truebody, was one of the few men locally to be executed for their part in the rebellion. In revenge the villagers tried to burn down the abbot’s mill at Codicote Bottom.

During the Middle Ages several industries flourished in Codicote parish. Potters operated at Rabley Heath and Potters Heath – brick makers continued in that area of the parish right up until the 20th century.There must have been a sufficient number of weavers in the area for the abbot to convert one of the water corn mills in the parish to “fulling” (finishing) cloth, and the name “Fulling Mill” has stuck, although the site was converted back to a corn mill in the 17th century.

When St. Albans Abbey was dissolved by Henry VIII in 1538, Codicote passed into the king’s ownership. In 1545 he sold it to his barber-surgeon, John Penne, who was already married to Lucy Cheval, of Sissevernes in the parish. A running series of skirmishes then took place at Codicote Bottom as Penne tried (eventually successfully) to evict the abbot’s tenant from there!

Another notable Codicote man of this period is Richard Hale, who left to became a rich merchant in London and set aside money in his will for the foundation of the grammar school in Hertford which now bears his name.

In the next century John Haynes travelled from here to the New World, where he became the first Governor of Connecticut. His son Hezekiah led Cromwell’s Eastern Alliance army at the end of the (English) Civil War. Many of the older houses in the centre of the village date back to the late 16th and early 17th century, although in most cases their timber frames are hidden behind brick or plaster façades. Not so the “AsYou Like it” restaurant, formerly the George and Dragon Inn, which proudly displays its half-timbering for all to marvel at.This establishment may have been a resting place for pilgrims on June 2013

their way to St. Albans Abbey before the current building was put up, and it became one of a number of coaching inns in the village in the 18th and 19th centuries.

During the 17th and 18th century Codicote became a hot bed for non-conformist sects, with a Quaker Meeting being based in Rabley Heath, where they had their own burial ground.Two other groups were based at Sissevernes, while there was later a meeting house in the village itself.

Two much later chapels, built for the Congregationalists in the mid 19th century and the Baptists in the early 20th century, have now been converted to offices.

Enclosure of Codicote’s open fields occurred piecemeal from the middle ages onwards, and so by the time of the Enclosure Award in 1819 only the three heaths and odd strips of unenclosed land remained to be allotted.

After the First World War a war memorial was installed in the churchyard and a Peace Memorial Hall in the centre of the High Street.The second World War brought the journalist and historian W. Branch Johnson to Codicote as billeting officer and awakened the village to its past.

Today Codicote Local History Society is actively researching the history of the parish, including its many long-lasting families, and it has recently acquired an old club house which it is gradually restoring with the intention of eventually turning it into a heritage centre.

For more information on Codicote’s history and the society’s events, publications and other activities you can check the website www.codicotehistory.org.uk

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

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community

Home Start Stevenage One in four children under five in the UK has a difficult start in life because their families are under pressure. Yet every child deserves the best possible start; to be loved, to play, to learn and to grow in confidence. When this happens in a happy, secure family, a child’s health, schooling and life prospects improve.

Home-Start believes that parents play the key role in ensuring that children have a happy and secure childhood, but even the most dedicated parents can face challenges that prevent them doing all they want for their children. Home-Start supports parents as they grow in confidence, strengthen their relationships with their children and widen their links within the local community.

Our committed and caring volunteers, who are parents themselves, offer friendship and informal support to parents with a young family during difficult times in their lives. They visit families at home and are friendly, approachable people who build up trust with parents by listening without being judgemental, and respect the needs of each individual family.

To Home-Start every family is special and we respond to each family’s needs through a combination of home visiting volunteers, group support and social events. Home-Start schemes are rooted in the communities they serve and managed locally.

If you have some spare time and are interested in volunteering for Home-Start please give us a call at Home-Start Stevenage on 01438 367788 or Home-Start North Herts on 01462 671168.

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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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20/01/2011 10:09 June 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

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community

LETCHWORTH EAGLES YOUTH FOOTBALL

New players wanted for U11’s Whites for 2013-2014 Season (then U12’s) The U11’s Whites formed 2 seasons ago and have gone from strength to strength ever since. Last year they came runners up in the Royston Crow League after finishing 1 point short of winning the Shilton Division. Continuing their success, they went on to become runners up at the Hitchin Tournament in May 2012 and reached the semifinals in subsequent tournaments.

This season the Whites faced the challenge of the newly introduced 9v9 format.

After being placed in Division 1 they have held a very strong position throughout.

John Roberts, Manager and Coach of the Whites, puts this down to the dedication and passion for football shown from his players.

The Whites train on Tuesdays with matches on Sundays. In preparation for the new season at U12’s, the Whites are looking to increase their squad. If you are an established player in current school year 6 and are looking for a new challenge, please call John for more information on 07976 960604 or email jhroberts11@gmail.com Letchworth Eagles is affiliated to the Hertfordshire Football Association and is a Charter Standard Development Club with excellent facilities at their ground at Pixmore Playing Fields. Letchworth Eagles welcomes enquiries from players of all age groups, U6-U18 and runs a Saturday School for girls aged 7-11.

Next season, LGCE will also be running a ladies team. Please see www.letchwortheagles.org.uk for information on all teams.

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

June 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

KNEBWORTH LUXURY CARE HOME

Knebworth Care Home is a luxury care home set back from London Road in the peaceful village of Woolmer Green.

This 50 bedded home offers a range of services which includes Residential, Nursing, Respite and Convalescence in a luxury environment that is tailored to individual needs. All rooms are spacious and well-appointed with en suite facilities. Each room also offers a 24-hour call system, a 37 inch flat screen TV and a telephone point that provides both telephone and broadband internet access. The home also offers a range of communal facilities such as a bar/coffee lounge, a salon and a various lounges and dining facilities.

Knebworth Care Home offers level access to its grounds and gardens, and the surroundings are ideal for residents wishing to maintain a more independent lifestyle. The home also backs onto open countryside and provides some wonderful views which can be enjoyed from many of the rooms within the home and also whilst sitting in the landscaped gardens. Woolmer Green has excellent transport connections including bus services, a railway station and easy access to the A1, enabling families and friends to visit Knebworth Care Home with ease.

We are very proud of our home and would be more than delighted to show you round.

For further information and enquires please contact Jackie Clarke on 01438 814 580 or email jackie.clarke@abbeyhealthcare.org.uk 59 London Road, Woolmer Green, Knebworth, Herts SG3 6JE 01438 814 580

June 2013

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

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VILLAGE LIFE lifestyle

The hunt is on for UK’s best picnic spot Where do you like to visit with your picnic hamper? If you have a favourite heritage place to pitch your picnic rug, nominate and it could win one of Hudson’s Heritage Awards later this year.

H

udson’s Heritage Awards were launched in 2011 to celebrate business and creative achievements in the UK heritage industry.The categories for the awards include Hidden Gem, Family Day Out, Beyond the Call of Duty and New Discovery as well as Best Picnic Spot. All of the categories, will be judged by a panel of independent heritage at a grand award ceremony hosted by Loyd Grossman.The Best Picnic Spot award is the only one where nominations are made by the general public.

To nominate your favourite heritage picnic spot all you need to do is take up to four photos and email them to competition@hudsons-media.co.uk. The photos can include you and your picnic if you like but need to highlight why it’s your favourite picnic spot. Please make sure you include your name, address, phone number and name of the place you are nominating in your email.

There is a prize up for grabs for you if you nominate your favourite heritage picnic spot. Not only could your nomination be awarded the accolade of being the UK’s Best Picnic Spot and receiving an award, but you could win your very own traditional wicker picnic basket for six people, stuffed with yummy goodies from some of our best heritage shops as well as an invite for you and a guest to the awards ceremony in November.

Your photo of the winner will also achieve fame as it will be included in the Hudson’s Historic Houses & Gardens 2014 guide. Five runners up will receive either a special Blenheim Palace cool-bag or a bottle of finest Abbotsbury Scotch Whisky.

Entries must reach Hudson’s no later than 31st August 2013 and the winner will be notified by 1st October 2013. For full terms and conditions see the website: www.hudsonsheritage.com/Heritage-Competitions/best-heritage-picnic-spot.aspx

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

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

June 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Andrew Sinclair Electrician

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

Kitchens Bathrooms Fusebox changes l

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

BM Beauty Studio Visit our beauty studio or enjoy a range of treatments from qualified professionals in the comfort of your own home.

Make up & Hair lessons & for events.

Manicures, Pedicures & OPI Gels Hair Cuts & Colour Body / Face Paint Pamper parties for all ages Other beauty treatments coming soon...

Contact Emma on 07939 397 280 emmlynyates@btinternet.com or Annabel on 07870 216 000 a_murchie77@hotmail.com Studio also available for photo shoots

127 High Street, Kimpton, Herts, SG4 8QN

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 June 2013

Unit 11, Laburnham Farm, LU2 9PW

Need help with your PC?  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

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

Evening Craft Classes

Your Local Electrical specialists Our mission, to advise, specify and install only the very best in energy saving and automation solutions to our Domestic, Commercial and industrial customers.

For more information or advice:-

Freephone: 0333 123 1044 Info@en-ov8.co.uk The Coach House, St Albans Road, Codicote, Herts, SG4 8UT

at Dacre Rooms in Kimpton • Making Jewellery • Knitting • Using a sewing machine • Decorating cupcakes • Free-machine embroidery & applique.

Learn new skills, brush up on old skills To find out what classes are coming up for the summer term Call Ellie on 07876 742 696 www.wowdidyoudothat.com facebook.com/WowDidYouDoThat Mention Village Life for a £5 discount off each class.

Rabley Tree Care Rabley Tree Care Rabley Tree Care

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

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

June 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

For Specialist Matrimonial Advice 5 Pondcroft Welwyn Garden City

JCS SOLICITORS

Hertfordshire AL7 3PX

The flooring store that comes to your door

Carpets Vinyls Laminates Wood Adaptations & repairs

Divorce & Separation Cohabitation Children

l

l

for a free quotation call Ewen McPherson on

07966 463761 or

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

Nails and More Providing YEW support to look & feel your best & keep strong

01438 714471 / 07506 408567

www.nailsandmore-herts.co.uk First visit is half price June 2013

 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

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

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory p 23

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

what’s on

What’s on in June...

CROSSWORD

Sat 22nd June The Fair in the Square, Old Market Square, Hitchin, SG4 9TS

Sat 29th June, 2pm - 5pm Tewin fete, Lower Green, Tewin, Herts Hertfordshire AL6 0JX

Sat 22nd Jun 2013, 8pm start Jimmy Carr at The Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ

Traditional fete set on the village green and adjacent village hall. Many stalls including fun fair, coconut shy, face painting, plant stall, tombola, cake stall, BarBQ, Pimms and bar. A wide range of craft stalls. Auction including a signed ‘Albert Square’ plaque, tickets to a Saracens match at Wembley and a paintballing experience.

The museum moves into the Old Market Square for the annual day of fun, food and fine fare. 01462 420144

For full details visit www.gordon-craig.co.uk

Sat 22nd June, 11am - 3pm Family Fun Day at Hitchin Boys’ School, Grammar School Walk, Hitchin, SG5 1JB

Attractions including a gladiator arena, adult bouncy castle, local bands, air cadets assault course, classic and modern cars, Star Wars characters, an archery exhibition, a technology sale, a number of food stalls and bar and all the usual summer fair stalls!

Fri 27th June, 7.30pm A Journey into Space at Knebworth Village Hall, Park Lane, Knebworth, SG3 6PD

Alistair Scott’s illustrated talk about moon and planetary missions, British Interplanetary Society and the role that British Aerospace and Astrium in Stevenage have played in the development of the space industry. Tickets include a drink and nibbles and are £2 for children (under 16) and £10 for adults.

Fri 27th June Quiz Night at W.G.C Golf Club, Mannicotts, High Oak Road, W.G.C, AL8 7BP

Welwyn B49 Business Networking is hosting this event in support of Isabel Hospice. Tickets: £12 each, including a hot supper – teams of six.

Sat 29th & Sun 30th June, 11am - 5pm (Last admission 4pm) Salvo Fair 2013, Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG1 2AX Over 80 exhibitors selling architectural antiques and salvage, reclaimed materials, garden antiques, bygones, with vintage, retro, upcycled, craftspeople, green building and recraft. Refreshments available on site.

Tickets are £9 (Children under 4 free)and include admission to Knebworth gardens, deer park, adventure playground, dinosaur trail and tea rooms.

Free parking.

Sun 30th June, 12pm - 5pm Benington Lordship – Open Garden for NGS, Benington Lordship, SG2 7BS 7-acre garden including historic buildings, kitchen garden, lakes, roses.

Spectacular herbaceous borders, unspoilt panoramic views. Admission £5, Children free. www.beningtonlordship.co.uk GET YOUR EVENT LISTED FOR FREE HERE, EMAIL: mail@villagelifemag.com or call us on 01438 216 950

Take a Break…

ACROSS 1. Village NW of Penzance (6) 4. My role in making this puzzle! (8) 9. Proverb (6) 10. Made to feel at home (8) 12. 9th Greek letter (4) 13. Booth (5) 14. Remain (4) 17. Notice (12) 20. Someone who stirs it up! (12) 23. All books have them! (4) 24. Rigid (5) 25. Domed or vaulted recess (4) 28. On the Sussex Coast (8) 29. Swimwear (6) 30. Devil worship (8) 31. G as that with hydrogen forms water (6)

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

DOWN 1. Magical (8) 2. Type of wall (8) 3. Porcine noise (4) 5. Make too simple (12) 6. Step (4) 7. Prisoner (6) 8. Overnight trans-Atlantic flight (6) 11. Rude (12) 15. Indian dish (5) 16. Foe (5) 18. Old-fashioned playground game (8) 19. Type of cow (8) 21. Cloud (6) 22. Woodwind musician (6) 26. P rotruding part of the lower jaw (4) 27. Curse (4)

June 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Village Life is looking for a reliable Dance Teacher 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 competitive advertising rates.

Contact Melanie on

01438 216 950

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 07968 100 619

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

Pest Control & Wildlife Management We treat a wide variety of pests using   both modern & traditional methods.

We promote the use of non-chemical  control whenever suitable.

Wasps, Flies, Fleas & Other Insects  Mice, Rats, Moles, Foxes  & Problem Birds  07974 720724 



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

www.hertfordpestcontrol.co.uk  info@hertfordpestcontrol.co.uk



A member of the National Pest Technicians Association

Mob: 07717 744 274

June 2013

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

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SHOWCASE

JORDAN

OIL BURNER SERVICES ESTABLISHED 1968

Round Robin Secretarial Support confidential, professional, affordable Hourly rates No agency fees No employee costs

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

CV writing also available Contact Nicky Morrison on 01462 625404 / 07531 547332 info@roundrobinsecretarial.co.uk www.roundrobinsecretarial.co.uk

BRIDGE COTTAGE PHARMACY

COMPUTER PROBLEMS

SUPERCLEAN “Window Cleaning at its best”

41 High Street, Welwyn, AL6 9EF

Want to kick your computer?

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

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

10/05/2010 I.B HYDE & SON

odicote Online 0610.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

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

Clean it & Mean it

18:41

Specialist House Cleaning • Health & Safety Trained • Silver & Brass Polishing •S pecialists in

Wet Room Cleaning

Call for a free quote 01438 214 984 07807 386 559

Advertise here TO 17500 LOCAL CUSTOMERS

JUST £99 for 4 months

CALL 01438 216 950 Includes design of advert

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To The Roof

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

Internal / External, Frames, Gutters & Conservatories Codicote based, covering all areas

Call for free quote 01438 821 773 07922 576 452

GOT YOU You have read this ad too!

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

CALL 01438 216 950 Terms and conditions apply.

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 • NHS & Private Flu jabs available here

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

June 2013

ACOLINE WATER SOFTENERS FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED 1982

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

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

• • • • • •

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

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

www.acolinesofteners.co.uk

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