Village Life Hitchin Issue 59 June 2014

VillageLife Lifestyle | Business | Community www.villagelifemag.com

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ISSUE 59 : JUNE 2014

THE CHEQUERS INN Izgara Grill & Kebab Roman Day at Welwyn Roman Baths

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 JUNE! Well being British, we need to mention the crazy weather that we enjoyed in May – some scorching days and then nonstop rain, oh well let’s hope this month the sun comes back so we can enjoy a beer in the garden; hopefully to celebrate England doing well in the World Cup. Don’t forget the action starts on the 12th June!

This month we revisit The Chequers Inn, Woolmer Green to find out about the revamped outside area and Secret Zoo, we visit Izgara Grill & Kebab – a new takeaway in Codicote, our resident writer Leigh Goldsmith talks about Roman Day at Welwyn Roman Baths and Jonathan Vernon-Smith explains how to Avoid Holiday Scams.

As always we showcase lots of great local businesses and this month we feature Stagg Plumbing, Heating & Drainage and The Car Agents. Finally we feature a story about a Stevenage mum who will be cycling over 200 miles around Tanzania next year, to raise money for Cancer Charities.

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

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!

Bye for now,

Jose & Melanie

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

CONTENTS 4:

Local news

6:

Lifestyle: Roman Day at Welwyn Roman Baths

8:

Lifestyle: Avoid those Holiday Scams

JVS: PAGE 8

10-11: Business: Izgar Grill & Kebab 12:

THE CAR AGENTS: PAGE 16

Business: Stagg Plumbing, Heating & Drainage

14-15: Business:The Chequers Inn 16:

Charity:Women Vs Cancer

18:

Business:The Car Agents

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 2014

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

01438 216950, www.villagelifemag.com © 2014 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

PARISH COUNCIL APPROVAL FOR JOHN CLEMENTS SPORTS AND COMMUNITY CENTRE On 29th April the Codicote Parish Council approved the new proposed John Clements Sports and Community Centre in Codicote.

Together with the Sport England £50,000 award and NHDC Planning Permission this leaves the road clear to finalise build costs and to ensure that all the funds in place before starting to build. The aim is to do this over the coming weeks.

Details of a “Buy a Brick“ fund raising scheme will appear soon giving all villagers the chance to leave their name on the building. Further contributions also to Jim Park at parkiejfh@aol.com, 74 St Albans Road Codicote SG48UU, tel.01438820325. Cheques should be made out to The John Clements Sports and Community Trust.

The Aim is to get the first spade in the ground by July and the building complete by year end.

SUE RYDER STARLIGHT HIKE – SATURDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER 2014 After a successful year in 2013, Sue Ryder - St John’s Hospice Starlight Hike returns on Saturday 13th September 2014 and promises to be a star-studded evening! The 10k night time walking challenge starts at 10pm from the Hospice’s Groups in Moggerhanger, Bedfordshire. Why not get family and friends together for a wonderful night under the stars and support this well deserved charity that has helped so many people around us all.

To start the evening off there will be having a Zumba warm up on the stage followed by a countdown to the start. Along your starlight walk there will be entertainers including majorettes, acoustic act & a soul diva who will motivate you & provide lots of giggles. At the finish you will be greeted with cheers, smiles and a goody bag, there is no need to rush off as there is a disco! To register go to www.sueryder.org/starlighthikestjohns or call 01767 642 412

Hitchin and Letchworth outdoor pools officially open Hitchin and Letchworth outdoor pools are officially open for summer. Both outdoor pools are heated and benefit from having smaller heated pools for toddlers and younger children, grassed areas for sunbathing and cafés that provide refreshments and snacks. A range of concessions are also available for families, multi-swim tickets and swim memberships. Both pools can be hired for private functions and pool parties.

Hitchin outdoor pool is open seven days a week from 8am to 6.30pm. Letchworth pool will be opening from 7am to 6.30pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and will open at the slightly later time of 8am to 6.30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

At weekends the pool will be open from 8.30am until 6.00pm.

Both pools will stay open until Sunday 7th September.

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

June 2014

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LIFESTYLE

ROMAN DAY

Sunday 29th June 2014 at Welwyn Roman Baths

S

WRITTEN BY LEIGH GOLDSMITH (LILYLAWLER@GOOGLEMAIL.COM)

ecretly hidden in a steel vault nine meters under the busy A1 motorway north of Welwyn Garden City, lies a fascinating insight into our past which for centuries lay unexposed underground, away from the unassuming public overhead.

It was not until 1960 that the Roman-British site was uncovered and excavated by local archaeologist Tony Rook.What was unveiled was a Roman ruin, consisting of four buildings, which would become known as Dicket Mead Villa.This villa is believed to have been built in the 3rd century AD, and occupied for 150 years.

Although some speculation remains as to it’s primary function, the scale of the site and the artifacts uncovered point to several ideas, one of such being a farm.The Roman baths were one part of this villa, and when discovered in 1960, would become part of a 10 year excavation project, in which they would be restored and studied by archaeologists.

The site would unveil secrets of the past which lay hidden underground and reveal many other interesting finds including an early heating system.The Bath House, which was uncovered, contained elements commonly witnessed in Roman bathing practices.

It is believed two bathing areas were present at the site in Welwyn, one perhaps for the owner, and the second may have either served the estate workers or other staff.The baths were built of flint, with bonding of flat brick and finished with plaster and paint.The presence of plunge baths has hinted at a resemblance to modern day Turkish baths, which are possibly the closest 6

comparison we have to Roman baths in modern times.

Shortly after the excavation finished, plans were announced by the Ministry for Transport of a new motorway route for the area.The new route was planned to run right through the newly excavated Roman-British site. After much discussion and negotiations, it was decided that the site would be protected and preserved by building a steel vault over the top of the baths, securing and locking them deep beneath what would be the A1 motorway. Access would be provided through a tunnel and once this was completed, work on the new motorway would be resumed.

Today the site is open to the public and continues to be a fascinating and popular local attraction. Each year in June, the Roman bath site comes alive with re-enactments of Roman life, which aim to educate and enable the public to experience the daily life of our early ancestors.This year on Sunday June 29th, Roman Day will be from 10.30am to 4.30pm.The public can go along to see and experience life as it was some 2,000 years ago.

The site is family friendly, and children can fully interact in the day’s activities.They can dress as a Roman and even grind spices which were commonly used in the Roman culture.

Parking is free and although there are no refreshments available, there are picnic benches provided so you can take a picnic (weather permitting).

Roman Day can be an excellent opportunity to see the Roman baths and experience one of Hertfordshire’s finest excavation sites.

More information on Welwyn Roman Baths including opening times can be found at www.welhat.gov.uk/museum.

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

June 2014

Beauty Studio

160 High Street, Codicote, SG4 8UB

June offer £18.00 For Gel Nails (Hands and Feet)

£20.00 For Paraffin Wax Pedicures

(Including a FREE file and Paint!)

Call now for an appointments 01438 820967 Compliments from Nisha- New Beauty Therapist

*Manicures*Pedicures*Gels*Waxing*Threading*Lash And Brow Tinting*Massage*Facials*Spray Tanning*

STEPPING BACK IN TIME LIFESTYLE

Avoid those

Holiday Scams With the holiday season almost upon us, I thought his month would be a good time for me to warn you about some of the most common holiday related scams that sadly people fall for year after year.

I

t’s seems a basic start, but only book holidays with good reputable companies THATYOU’VE HEARD OF! It never ceases to amaze me how many people simply google ‘Cheap holiday’ and then part with hundreds of pounds on some website that may or may not be genuine. Always do your research to make sure you are paying a proper UK based company with a good reputation. It’s also advisable to use a company that is both a member of ABTA and ATOL for your protection.

Having booked your holiday with a genuine company, the next mistake some people make is to purchase their travel insurance from scamsters rather than a bona fide company.

Again use a quality British insurer that will actually answer the phone if you find yourself in need of making a claim from the poolside in Faliraki.

Whilst you’re organising your health protection for your holiday, you should be aware that applying for your EHIC European health insurance card (which provides you with free or reduced health care in European countries) SHOULD be FREE! There are lots of websites out there that will charge you a fee for applying for the card on your behalf. Apply directly with the NHS or the post office and avoid be being ripped off!

If you’re like me, you’ll probably hire a car while away.There are of course various scams to watch out for with hire cars.

Only ever use good, recommended firms, avoid the dodgy little backstreet hire car company that charges half the price of anyone else.You’ll probably find out why they’re so cheap when the wheels fall off.

One very important thing to watch out for when hiring a car abroad is that you ensure you have signed paperwork from the hire car company to confirm the condition of the car.Very often people drop off their hire car in a rush to get their flight home and don’t insist on this. It is imperative! I have known several people (sometimes using well-known companies) who have returned to the UK, checked their credit card, only to find a £500 charge for ‘damage’ to the car.Trying to prove that you didn’t cause it,

when you’re no longer in the country and with no paperwork to support your argument, will be a nightmare.

The final holiday scams you MUST be aware of regard the dreaded ‘Timeshares’ or ‘Holiday Clubs’. I lose track of the number of times I’ve dealt with complaints from consumers on my radio programme about these.

Picture the scene:You’re strolling down the seafront, all bronzed and relaxed when a lovely, attractive (probably British) person approaches you and offers you either an invitation to an event or a scratch card that will provide you with the invite.

Your guard is down as you’re on holiday so you agree.You’ll then be whisked off to a luxury venue, plied with Pinot Grigio and then forced to endure a hard sell on the advantages of joining their club. Sadly I have known even the most forceful, confident, savvy consumers get caught like this and the results have been awful.Very often timeshare and holiday club contracts are difficult (and in some cases impossible) to get out of.What many people also fail to recognise is that these holiday club memberships are sometimes to be passed down to your children, meaning many years of misery not only for you, but for your family when you’ve died!

My advice is that when approached by anyone offering you something ‘for free’, particularly when your guard is down on holiday – KEEP WALKING!

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

June 2014

But we do buy!

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Do you need to sell or need help selling your car?

Contact us by logging on to: www.wedonotbuyanycar.com Call 01462 441460 or email: info@thecaragents.com Autolounge, 7 Brand Street, Hitchin SG5 1HX

Buying and selling with integrity

BUSINESS

Izgara Grill & Kebab

This month we met Oscar who owns Izgara Grill & Kebab, a family run takeaway business which has recently opened on Codicote High Street.

Oscar has been in the catering business for 30 years having owned restaurants and takeaways.

He felt that there was a gap in the market for a Grill and Kebab takeaway so he opened up for business on the 21st April this year.

Izgara Grill & Kebab is open Monday to Saturday from 12pm - 11.30pm and 2pm - 10.30pm on Sundays, there is seating inside for 28 people. Orders can be placed over the phone and then collected or there is also offer a free delivery service from Sunday - Thursday from 4pm until closing, within a 3 mile radius of Codicote (minimum spend £14).We had a Doner Wrap for lunch which was delicious!

Oscar told us, “We aim to serve the highest quality of food to our customers, in addition to Kebabs, we also serve Fish and Chips, Pies, Scampi, Burgers, a selection of starters and deserts, and kids meals such as Nuggets, Sausages and Fish Fingers. Everything is cooked fresh using top quality meat prepared daily and we also take orders for large parties.”

Izgara Grill & Kebab is at 91 High Street in Codicote, call 01438 822 034 or 01438 822 044 to place an order.

Izgara Grill & Kebab, 91 High Street, Codicote, SG4 8XE 01438 822 034 01438 822 044 10

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

June 2014

VILLAGE LIFE

menu

FREE

BOTTLE OF DRINK WHEN YOU SPEND £20 OR OVER COLLECTION ONLY

KEBABS

BURGERS

All served with salad and pitta bread

All served with salad & choice of sauce

Lamb Doner Slices of minced lamb, seasoned & cooked on an upright spear

HAMBURGER 2.20 CHEESE BURGER 2.50 QUARTER POUNDER 3.20

SML LRG WRAP QUARTER POUNDER WITH CHEESE 3.50

4.90 5.90 6.40 HALF POUNDER 4.50 Chicken Doner 4.80 Slices of minced lamb, seasoned & cooked on an upright spear HALF POUNDER WITH CHEESE CHICKEN BURGER 3.60

4.90 5.90 6.40 VEGGIE BURGER 3.50 Lamb Shish KING SIZE BURGER 3.20 Marinated cubes of lamb on a skewer, charcoal grilled FISH BURGER 3.50

5.50 7.00 7.50 EXTRA CHEESE 0.30 Chicken Kebab Marinated cubes of chicken on a skewer, charcoal grilled STARTERS

5.50 7.00 7.50 HUMMUS IN PITTA 2.70 Kofte Shish TARAMA IN PITTA 2.70 Marinated cubes of lamb on a skewer, charcoal grilled COLESLAW IN PITTA 2.70

5.50 7.00 7.50 ONION RINGS (10) PCS 2.70 CHIPS Small 1.30 Large 2.40 Mixed Kebab 8.00 BOX SALAD 2.00 1 skewer lamb shish, 1 skewer kofte SPICY CHICKEN WINGS (6) PCS 3.80

& slices of lamb or chicken doner SPICY CHICKEN DIPPERS (6) PCS 3.80 Izgara Special 13.00 CHICKEN NUGGETS (10) PCS 3.80 1 skewer lamb shish, 1 skewer chicken shish, SCAMPI (10) PCS 4.00 1 skewer kofte & slices of lamb or chicken doner EXTRA PITTA BREAD 0.50 Halep 8.00 POT OF SAUCE 0.50 slice layers of lamb with halep sauce & fried bread FISH LAMB DONER MEAT & CHIPS 6.00 COD, CHIPS & SALAD 5.50 CHICKEN DONER MEAT & SHIPS 6.00 SCAMPI, CHIPS & SALAD 5.50 CHIPS KEBAB 2.50 FISH FINGERS, CHIPS & SALAD 5.50 CHIPS SALAD KEBAB 3.00 PIES SALAD KEBAB 2.00 CHICKEN & MUSHROOM PIE WITH CHIPS 4.70 BEED & ONION PIE WITH CHIPS 4.70 EXTRA DONER MEAT 3.50 STEAK & KIDNEY PIE WITH CHIPS 4.70 EXTRA CHICKEN DONER MEAT 3.50 KIDS MEALS LAMB DONER ROLL 3.70 CHICKEN NUGGETS, CHIPS & SOFT DRINK 4.50 CHICKEN DONER ROLL 3.70 BURGER, CHIPS & SOFT DRINK 4.50 COMBINATIONS SAUSAGE, CHIPS & SOFT DRINK 4.50 FISH FINGERS, CHIPS & SOFT DRINK 4.50 LAMB DONER& LAMB SHISH 7.50 LAMB DONER & CHICKEN SHISH LAMB DONER & CHICKEN DONER LAMB DONER & KOFTE SHISH CHICKEN DONER & LAMB SHISH CHICKEN DONER & KOFTE SHISH CHICKEN DONER & CHICKEN SHISH KOFTE SHISH & CHICKEN KEBAB KOFTE SHISH & CHICKEN SHISH CHICKEN SHISH & LAMB SHISH CHICKEN SHISH, LAMB SHISH & DONER June 2014

7.50 7.50 7.50 7.50 7.50 7.50 7.50 7.50 7.50 10.00

DESSERTS CHOCOLATE ECLAIR 2.50 RUMBABA 2.50 CHEESECAKE 2.50 COLD DRINKS CANS 0.90 BOTTLE WATER 0.90 BOTTLE DRINK 1.5LTR 2.00 BOTTLE 500ML 1.20 RIBENA 1.00 FRUIT SHOOTS 1.00

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

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BUSINESS

STAGG Plumbing Heating & Drainage

S

tagg Plumbing Heating and Drainage have many years’ experience in carrying out all aspects of plumbing, heating and drainage installations, servicing and repairs.

The team are fully qualified and offer a friendly and professional service undertaking all kinds of domestic plumbing and heating repairs, servicing, installations and drainage problems.

They can take care of water leaks leaking from pipes and taps resulting in wet floors, blocked toilets and drains, replacement cold water tanks, water mains problems and all plumber’s maintenance tasks.

They install new boilers and full gas central heating systems, repairing or replacing boilers, radiators, valves and pumps, provide ongoing boiler maintenance service contracts as well as carrying out landlord gas safety checks and issuing Landlord Gas Safety CP12 Certificates.

If you are suffering with drainage problems, they can carry out a CCTV inspection of your drains to establish where the blockage lies. Once the drain blockage has been located, a high pressure drain jetter is used to clear the drain which effectively clears build-up of sewage, dirt, grease and other types of blockage.

PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE

Stagg Plumbing Heating and Drainage are not just there for repairs – they give advice and recommend products and systems for better fuel efficiency to save money on your bills.They have a full commitment to Health and Safety with accreditations and certifications with Safecontractor, Constructionline, Chas, ISO9001, Gas Safe and are members of Which? Trusted Trader and Trustatrader.

The business has worked with a variety of clients over a long period of time on existing properties and new builds ranging from 1 to over 80 properties at a time and has been fortunate enough to continue to win repeat business.

Although based in Welwyn, their clients cover a far reaching area in the South of England. All Engineers are fully qualified, insured and experienced to ensure that clients receive a quality service.

“Very happy with the complete job.Thanks.”

“Called them Christmas Eve and the plumber was here in 15 minutes! A great service!”

“Thank you. Your receptionist was lovely too.”

Call today for a free no obligation quotation on 01438 712712 or visit www.stagg.plumbing

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

June 2014

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

21/11/11 09:52:14

13

BUSINESS

The Chequers Inn

T

16 London Road, Woolmer Green, Herts, SG3 6JP 01438 813 216

his month we revisited The Chequers Inn in Woolmer Green, a family Pub/Restaurant which is owned and run by Marian and Nick Darter with their son Ben, who is the head chef.The Chequers is a lovely village pub which retains an old world charm and has a small selection of comfortably fitted bedrooms.There is a bar area with traditional furniture, a restaurant with a more contemporary feel and a large garden area which has been recently transformed.There is a new outside dining area for al fresco dining which will be served table service.

All food is homemade and prepared on the premises from fresh, daily delivered produce.You will find a fantastic selection of dishes including vegetarian options and a snack menu.Wednesday and Saturday are pie days where you can enjoy a fantastic pie with choice of potatoes and fresh vegetables for just £6.45.The pies have won awards and people come from all over to taste them, you will always find a choice of 6 or 7 pies including a Vegetarian option. On Thursdays you can enjoy a £6.95 menu with a range of home cooked meals. On Sundays you can enjoy a roast a choice of 3 meats or Pie of the day, with roasted potatoes, homemadeYorkshire Pudding and vegetables for £9.95.The restaurant is available for functions and holds 40 people for a sit down meal, perfect for private parties, christenings and funerals.

Having eaten at the Chequers on a number of occasions, I can highly recommend the food, however the real gem is the Secret Zoo area which has also been extended and revamped.The zoo has Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Chickens, Chipmunks, Quails, BooBook Owls, Indian Eagle Owls, African Eagle Owls, Marmoset Monkeys, Pygmy Goats, an aviary with a selection of birds including Cockatiels, Budgies and Canaries.There are a even a few babies including Goat kids April, Anna & Arther born in April and also baby Chipmunks, Rabbits and Budgies.This is perfect for children to see while parents are enjoying a drink or bite to eat in the garden over the summer.

Opening times are Tuesday to Saturday 12pm – 11pm, Monday 4pm to 11pm and Sunday 12pm – 9pm. Food is served Tuesday to Friday from 12pm – 2.30pm and 6pm – 9.00pm, Saturday 12pm – 9.00pm and Sunday 12pm – 3pm.

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There is a competition running to vote for your favourite local Welwyn Hatfield pub, you can help the Chequers by voting for them at www.favouritelocal.com For more information or to book a table, or enquire about a function, call Marian on 01438 813 216 or visit www.benicksatthechequers.co.uk

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

June 2014

VILLAGE LIFE

June 2014

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

15

CHARITY

Stevenage mum joins

Fifth Women’s Cancer Challenge Claire Wilson from Stevenage is getting on her bike and taking positive action in the fight against breast, ovarian and cervical cancers.

C

laire, is part of an amazing group of women tackling the fifth Women V Cancer challenge. She will be challenging herself as part of a women-only team of cyclists riding through Tanzania to support the work of three charities: Breast Cancer Care, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action. Previous Women V Cancer cycle challenges in Kenya, India, Cuba and China have raised over £3.5 million for the three charities.

Women of all ages and all cycling abilities from across the UK are invited to join the adventure in October 2015.The group will cycle around 350km (approx 216 miles) over five days – both on

and off road – experiencing rural Tanzania away from the tourist trails and hotspots. It will be a journey full of fun, friendship and incredible support as women of all ages and from all walks of life come together to challenge themselves for a great cause.

As well as training hard, Claire needs to raise a minimum of £3,000 to support the work of the Woman V Cancer charities and she is asking local people and companies to help her reach that target.To pledge your support for Claire, visit www.justgiving.com/claire-wilson32 Claire told Village Life, “I will cycle over 200 miles in 5 days in Africa next year to raise money for ThreeWomen’s Cancer Charities in memory of my Mum, Diane Payne, who passed away last year, aged 57 after battling secondary breast cancer and my Nan who died from Ovarian Cancer, aged 59. I am paying my own tour costs and purchasing all the kit myself so every penny that you donate will go direct to the charity!

I will spend months training in preparation, including taking part in a training weekend in July next year.This will be a huge personal challenge for me in many ways; getting fit, successfully raising my sponsorship money and completing the challenge itself in Tanzania! But I am really looking forward to this journey and meeting all the other women cyclists taking part. Please can I ask for your support in helping me raise money to help fight breast, ovarian and cervical cancers. I would really appreciate it.”

For further information about Women V Cancer, visit www.actionforcharity.co.uk or phone Action for Charity on 0845 408 2698 16

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

June 2014

VILLAGE LIFE

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VILLAGE LIFE BUSINESS

40 YEARS OF MERCEDES, BMW AND PRESTIGE CARS IN HERTFORDSHIRE RMC Cars of Harpenden are joining The Car Agents Group, with a new name of RMC Car Agents

The newly rebranded RMC Car Agents office in Southdown Road will continue to help its clients in Harpenden and the surrounding areas to sell and buy their cars. But as a member of The Car Agents Group, it can now offer a range of additional services, along with a much larger selection of Sports, Prestige and Classic cars for sale.

Rupert Cornes (Consultant), who established RMC Cars in 1994, is excited that RMC Cars are joining forces with The Car Agents Group, a family-run business operating from the newly renovated ex-Pinney’s Mercedes Dealership in Hitchin.

“We can see some real benefits for our clients going forward,” said Rupert.

“We’ll still provide the same very personal service as before, but can now tap into The Car Agents’ experience in delivering outstanding solutions for selling and buying Sports, Prestige and Classic cars, as well as a much larger selection of stock and a No Sale No Fee service.

“On top of that, our clients can also now access an extensive range of services

to meet all their car needs, including a Servicing and Maintenance facility with a collection and delivery service, a Car Spa and a Hand CarWash.’’

After 20 years as Sales Director with Specialist Cars BMW Group, what The Car Agents owner Simon Michell doesn’t know about Sports, Prestige and Classic Cars isn’t worth knowing. He said: “There’s a lot of synergy between our two businesses, which are both founded on high levels of integrity and personal service. So I am delighted to welcome RMC to The Car Agents Group and look forward to providing clients in Harpenden and the surrounding areas a hassle-free service for everything to do with their cars.”

For more information, visit www.thecaragents.com or contact Simon Michell on 07824 600 769 (info@thecaragents.com)

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

June 2014

VILLAGE LIFE

June 2014

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

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

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

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 Airport Cars Direct HP 0111 2.indd 1

Visit our beautiful

20/01/2011 10:09

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 20

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

June 2014

VILLAGE LIFE

Is your business slowing down?

Could you do with more enquiries from the local area?

Village Life is offering some great promotions for new advertisers, call Melanie on 01438 216 950 or email mail@villagelifemag.com for more information

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

June 2014

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

Village Tree Services Village Tree Services

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

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



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

AA Window Repairs

Need help with your PC? 22/02/2010

Village Tree Services 0310 QP.indd 1

Specialist in replacing cloudy windows

 Window handles  Door handles  Window seals  Window/Door locks

 Misty windows  Draughty windows  Window hinges  Faulty doors  And much more

Call our repairs manager direct for an appointment on:

07432679405

Local family run business built on reputation. We specialise in replacing the misty/cloudy window panes not the frames. Saving you money! We also fix all types of double glazing problems and wont try to sell you new windows. We offer free advice and free no obligation quotes. We also offer an OAP DISCOUNT. Remember we are a local family run business not a franchise. Thank you for reading.

Alan & Gemma

www.aawindowrepairs.co.uk 22

13:46

Toyour advertise in The problems Hitchin Village Directory p  All computer 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

June 2014

VILLAGE LIFE

All areas of Property Maintenance/Handyman work undertaken, including:

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

Flat Pack Decorating & Repairs l DIY Type Jobs l Gutters Repaired/Cleaned l Sheds Erected/ Repaired/Re-roofed l Gardening – Fences/Grass Cutting/ Hedges & Trees Trimmed

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

Friendly, Efficient & Courteous

Contact Melanie on

l

l

07788 889 536

local.handyman@hotmail.co.uk For Specialist Matrimonial Advice

JCS SOLICITORS Divorce & Separation Cohabitation

01438 216 950

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

June 2014

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

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WHAT’S ON

What’s on in JUNE...

Sun 15th Jun, 12pm - 4pm Family Open Day at The Letchworth Centre for Healthy Living, Rosehill Hospital, Letchworth SG6 3NA A chance to learn about and experience complementary approaches to health and wellbeing... with activities for children running throughout the day. Free admission, free taster treatments, classes, kids activities including a bouncy slide. www.letchworthcentre.org

Wed 18th – Sat 21st June Rock Choir supporting Isabel Hospice at the Gordon Craig Theatre Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ Rock Choir performs live in four outstanding gala concerts with The Hollies’ frontman Peter Howarth. More than 600 local Rock Choir members will be performing pop and chart songs from Rock Choir’s feel good repertoire.

Entertainment for all the family. Tickets £16.00 from 01438 363200.

Sat 21st Jun, Evening Drinks at 7.30pm - 12am Midsummer Night’s Dance, Harpenden Common Golf Club Cravells Road Harpenden AL5 1BL

Sat 28th June, 2pm to 5pm Tewin Fete, Lower Green, Tewin AL6 0JX Traditional village fete held on the village green. BBQ, bar games, funfair etc. www.tewinvillage.co.uk

Sat 28th Jun, 9.30 am - 06.30 pm Fairlands Valley Park, Showground Arena, Broadhall Way (opp Stevenage FC Stadium) Stevenage SG2 8RH Showcasing the cultural and religious festivities in the Philippines.

Grand parade of festivals, clothes, local talents, queens, trade and exhibits and traditional food festival. FREE ADMISSION, 07534 711 757

Sunday 29th Jun, 12pm - 5pm Open Garden for NGS – Benington Lordship, nr Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG2 7BS 7-acre garden, historic buildings, kitchen garden, lakes, roses. Spectacular herbaceous borders, unspoilt panoramic views. Admission £5, Children free.

Open for charity. 01438 869668, www.beningtonlordship.co.uk

Wine, Dinner and Dancing for Macmillan Cancer Support. Ticket £50 includes a glass of bubbly, 3-course dinner and entertainment.

Contact Judie - 07775 652578

Sat 5th July, 7.00 pm Stevenage Choral Society Summer Concert, Church of St Andrew & St George, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage SG1 1XX

Friday 27th Jun, Arrive 7.00 for 7.30 start Dickens at Knebworth, Knebworth House, Knebworth SG1 2AX

Ahoy: sing for the Mary Rose, sea shanties and folk songs with the band Call Me Al and children from St Helen’s Wheathamstead, Moss Bury and Peartree Spring, Stevenage and Stevenage Young Singers. 01438 816760, chairperson@stevenagechoral.org.uk

Enjoy an evening of selected readings from Charles Dickens’ most enduring works, and a snapshot of the life of the great man. In the Banqueting Hall. £20 per person, glass of Pimms on arrival. www.knebworthhouse.com

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

Take a Break…

ACROSS 1 Wandering from place to place (7) 5 Karate blows (5) 8 City of northern Italy (5) 9 Cad (7) 10 Citrus fruit (7) 11 Scottish child (5) 12 Comes to a standstill (6) 14 Adorned (6) 18 Inexpensive (5) 20 Branch of mathematics (7) 22 Fishing (7) 23 Norwegian composer (5) 24 Amalgamate (5) 25 Most sorrowful (7)

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

DOWN 1 Ideas (7) 2 -- Loy, film star (5) 3 Irish county (7) 4 Style of art associated with Picasso (6) 5 Small fragment of bread (5) 6 Satan (3,4) 7 Alluring woman (5) 13 Engrave (anag.) (7) 15 Betrothed (7) 16 Current of air (7) 17 Traditional Scottish dish (6) 18 Abyss (5) 19 Balance (5) 21 Cloth for card-tables (5)

June 2014

VILLAGE LIFE

Cars, Vans, MPV’s, Minibuses, Trucks and Dropsides Family Owned Business for Over 30 Years All latest Model Vehicles First Class Service, putting you first and keeping you on the move!

Stevenage Branch Crompton Road Stevenage, SG1 2EE 01438 312 196 Letchworth Branch Green Lane Letchworth, SG6 1HP 01462 674 280 www.vincentvanhire.com Mention VLife10 for a 10% discount on hire price

June 2014

Are you a local Photographer looking for more business?

Village Life is looking for a reliable Photographer 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.

Contact Melanie on

01438 216 950

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

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SHOWCASE

CODICOTE PHARMACY

COMPUTER PROBLEMS

123 HIGH ST, CODICOTE, SG4 8UB 01438 821418

Want to kick your computer?

• FREE prescription collection from any surgery

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

• FREE home delivery of medication & shopping

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

LOCAL WINDOW CLEANER

odicote Online 0610.indd 1

• Passport photos & digital processing

GOT YOU

10/05/2010 18:41

Reliable & Friendly

07799 497 923

cleanmywindows@outlook.com

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.

Looking for a reliable

HOMEOPATH

to advertise here Cakes for Every Occasion 07862 282 009 www.barkerscakes.co.uk

ADVERTISE HERE

CALL 01438 216 950

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

LOOKING FOR A RELIABLE MUSIC TEACHER TO ADVERTISE HERE. CALL

NO TIME TO CLEAN OR IRON?

Peony Floral Boutique

CALL 01438 216 950

Call

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TO ADVERTISE HERE

01438 216 950

TO 17500 LOCAL CUSTOMERS Includes design of advert

for a reliable Locksmith

Call 01438 216 950

Friendly, Reliable, Mature Lady Cleaner. Weekly or one off cleans from £12.50 p/h.

Ironing £25.00 per laundry basket collected from your house & delivered back.

JUST £99 for 4 months

looking

07879 243 786

Weddings & Events, Funerals, Corporate, Balloons & Special Creations

01438 821888 07815 758337 www.peonyflorist.co.uk

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

June 2014

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

incredible care for incurable illness

Join us under starlight to raise money for St John’s Hospice St John's Hospice grounds Saturday 13 September at 10pm

Supported by

Register now at www.sueryder.org/starlighthikestjohns

or call 01767 642 412