Village Life Hitchin February 2013

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ISSUE 43 : february 2013

A history of the Wymondleys

Cruising

Claire Austin is UK’s Entrepreneur of the Year

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 February

Welcome to the February issue of Village Life, Valentine’s day is the main date that should be in your diary this month (Thursday 14th Feb). If you are looking for inspiration for gifts then Peony Floral Boutique would be a great place to visit, read about them on page 14. Also Edible Bouquets have some fantastic gifts and their details are on the same page.

This month we look in to the History of Little Wymondley & Great Wymondley and we also find out about Cruising which is becoming more and more popular. We would like to congratulate local businesswoman Claire Austin for winning UK Entrepreneur of the Year, read the story on page 4.

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!

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,

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

Jose & Melanie

Contents 4:

Local news

6:

Wellbeing: Marilyn Tuck – Hopping off to Australia

8:

Community: A history of the Wymondleys

10:

Business: UHY WKH wins Investors in People Gold Award

14:

Business: Peony Floral Boutique

18:

Business: Austins’ on the move

THE WYMONDLEYS: page 8

cruising: page 20

20: Travel Focus: Cruising 22:

Lifestyle: North Herts Ramblers’ Dog Walks

28:

What’s on in February / 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.

February 2013

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

Local Business Women is Best in Britain

Local businesswoman Claire Austin has been named the UK’s Entrepreneur of the Year at a prestigious business awards ceremony.

Claire, who is Managing Director of Austin’s Funeral Directors, was selected as the country’s top entrepreneur by the British Chambers of Commerce. She picked up her award at a gala dinner at London’s Guildhall in front of an audience of over 500 people.

A delighted Claire said: “I am amazed and thrilled to have won this award but I really couldn’t have done it without the support and loyalty of the entire Austin’s team. Our whole business is about providing an outstanding service to our clients and everybody in the team plays a vital role in doing that.”

Austin’s made it to the national final, which was hosted by BBC journalist and broadcaster Declan Curry, having won the Business of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year categories at the Chamber’s East of England awards. Eighty five companies from all over the UK attended the national final competing in 14 categories.

The Entrepreneur of the Year award is designed to recognise an individual who has been

4

“instrumental in the success of a business taking into consideration the overall performance of the business over the last three years”. Claire, who has headed Austin’s since 2001 and is the tenth generation of her family to do so, was praised for significantly growing the 312-year-old company whilst continuing to focus on offering a level of service that “set the company apart from its national competitors”. The judges were particularly impressed by Claire’s use of feedback and a mystery shopper review which resulted in the introduction of a number of innovations for the sector.

President of the British Chambers of Commerce Martyn Pellew said: “Claire Austin is a fitting winner of the Entrepreneur of the Year Award and shows what can be achieved when you innovate and continually improve the way you do business.”

Austin’s has eight branches throughout Hertfordshire and also owns and operates Harwood Park Crematorium in Stevenage.

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

February 2013

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Y

Hopping off to Australia!

es, it’s an exciting time – after 10 years in this beautiful country I am booked to go back to Australia in mid March and this month I am celebrating those years! Yes, during this time I have learned so much, and the way I am able to help people has changed so dramatically. It has become easier, more modern, and more completely online, but more on that in the next issue.

In this article I am celebrating the success of these lovely years with you: the Knebworth articles from 2007, and then Village Life from it’s conception in 2009, and every month since!

I covered some weird and wonderful topics and soon found out which ones ticked your boxes.Whenever I wrote about stress and weight loss I got calls, so I started tailoring my articles to helping you relax more and eat and exercise sensibly.There were topics related to stress such as work, relationships, kids, sleep and panic attacks.

You have stretched me as a person in this time bringing me such interesting problems to solve; debilitating conditions such as depression, IBS and cancer; kids behavioral issues; maturing teenagers; anxiety and very personal problems; plus weight gain, smoking and drinking; work and sport issues.We have had some lovely successes.

Readers have even told me they have kept an article for months knowing they would come one day.

Here is one mother’s example. Her teenage daughter was winding her up and what with work and running a house, she was at her wits’ end. ‘Can you help?’ she asked.

It was such a relief to her to find an easy way around this.

She changed her own stressed behavior and lo and behold the whole house calmed down, even the daughter. I have always said the mother is the hub of the house, calm the

mother and the whole family dynamics change. If this sounds like you please don’t faff around, get help now!

In just 1-3 weeks it’s likely you’ll feel and see quite a difference.

For those I have met here in my safe little therapy room thank you for coming and those who I haven’t met I somehow feel connected to you through this magazine.

And, this transition of mine is only that - a move within a world joined by wondrous technology that allows us to write, talk and see each other instantly, no matter where we are, without even going out of our house.

In fact, did you know I do Skype consultations? Well, I have helped people in this country and worldwide for years via Skype. It is so easy, with appointments set up at times to suit them.This, of course, will continue as many of my local clients continue working with me on Skype, but my laptop and I are always open to seeing more.

If you want to come in February ring now and if you want to try out Skype for free do ring or email me.

www.marilyntuck.co.uk Knebworth – 07962 811907 6

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

February 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

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13/04/2011 12:50 7

community

A history of The Wymondleys Little & Great Wymondley are two villages covered by Wymondley Parish Council which are rich in history and have a population of around 1100. Shards of Roman pottery and a Roman cemetery reflect its proximity to a large Roman farm and villa in the valley to the east on the outskirts of Hitchin.

G

reat Wymondley is set high on the hill and its Norman church stands next to the mound of a ‘motte and bailey’.The church is believed to have originally been a chapel to Hitchin. In 1199 it was the subject of a legal dispute between Reginald de Argentein and the Abbess of Elstow.The Abbess maintained that Judith niece of William the Conqueror who founded the abbey of Elstow, gave to the nuns the vill of Hitchin with its church and the chapel of Wymondley pertaining to it.

She produced the charter and confirmations by William I and Henry I and II, also the testimonials of the archdeacon and the bishop who dedicated the church, and of Henry the king. Reginald on the other hand said that the church of Wymondley had never pertained to that of Hitchin, and that in the time of William I, a certain Alfled made presentation to that church. He claimed that afterwards 8

it was given to his grandfather Reginald together with the manor and therefore he now claimed the advowson, as two presentments had already been made by his family.

In 1208-9 Richard de Argentein (the son of Reginald) acknowledged the right of the Abbess of Elstow to the advowson, on condition that she would receive him into all benefits and prayers which were made in the church of Elstow. About this time Elstow appropriated the church, and a vicarage was ordained by Hugh Wells, Bishop of Lincoln, whose episcopacy lasted from 1209 to 1235.

Elstow kept the church until the Dissolution, after which the tithes were included in the grant of Hitchin rectory to Trinity College, Cambridge, by Henry VIII. Adjacent to the church is a green in the centre of the village with ‘Delamere House’ (a very attractive brick built house) standing on the site of an earlier house where it is

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February 2013

community

rumoured that Cardinal Wolsey lived for a time. Across the road is a pretty row of thatched cottages named after several of Henry VII’s wives.

Originally, there was a Manor House in Great Wymondley near the church and motte and bailey, but all traces of this have disappeared.The Lord of the Manor was held in ‘Serjeantry’ to the Crown and his duty was to present the first cup of wine at the Coronation feasts in Westminster hall.This tradition continued up to the coronation of George IV, after which, the banquet was discontinued.The duties of this manor and that of Little Wymondley merged over the years and remains of the latter still remain as Wymondley Bury.

The Great Wymondley village is a conservation area and unspoilt by development.There is a ‘minor’ sunken road between the two Wymondleys which was probably laid out at the time of the Wymondley Enclosure Act of 1811.

Beside this road are the remains of a priory after which the current property and farm are named.The priory followed the rule of St Augustine and was patronised by the lords of the manor. Founded in the early 1200’s, there is a copy of a papal bull in the British Library from Pope Innocent III giving protection to the Hospital of Wymondley dated 1207. Following the dissolution, parts of the nave of the church appear to have been incorporated within the current dwelling house and the tithe barn has been restored and is used for private functions.

To the east of Great Wymondley, in the valley stands Little Wymondley.Whilst containing a number of older properties, it is now larger than Great Wymondley with several small developments over the years.

The Wymondley aspect of the village name derives from an Old English personal name and leah to give ‘Wilmund’s wood/clearing‘. In the Domesday Survey of 1086 the name appears as Wimundelai and Wimundeslai.

The name used to be prefixed by the word Parva which is Latin for small.

Little Wymondley boasts its own church, St Mary The Virgin, which has a clock on the tower presented by the villagers of Little Wymondley in commemoration of the coronation of King Edward VII in 1902.The original church on this site was dedicated to St Peter, built in the middle twelfth century and was linked to the Priory in the thirteenth century. After falling into disrepair, it was rebuilt in the late fifteenth century and rededicated to St Mary.

To the south stands moated Wymondley Bury, parts of which date back to the 14th century.The Bury stands on a site that was probably fortified in the Saxon period. On the west of the village stands Wymondley House, built February 2013

by a rich and influential lawyer in the early 1700’s. He enclosed eight acres of common land and ignored a court order to remove them, which was not enforced. He was so wealthy that he paid window tax on twenty-five windows.

(Daylight robbery springs to mind!).This private residence became a Roman Catholic school for a few years after the Second World War, the chapel in grounds having been used as a schoolroom for London evacuees during the war, and then a commercial premises. It has reverted to residential units.

The Wymondley Parish is set in a rolling landscape and is criss-crossed with footpaths, (some of Roman origin like Gypsy Lane) ideal for walking the dog or a leisurely stroll.

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

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business

UHY WKH – Investors in People Award Winners Adam Fernandes, Business Development Manager from UHY WKH Partnership Chartered Accountants reports on his firm being awarded the Investors in People Gold Award for a second time...

U

HY WKH Partnership Chartered Accountants and Virtual Business Source Limited are delighted to announce that they have again been awarded the Investors in People Gold Award, an achievement that recognises world class best practice.

As the first firm of accountants in the East of England to achieve the Gold award in 2009 and one of the first to achieve the Investors in People Gold nationally, UHY WKH Partnership and Virtual Business Source Limited have once again been assessed as meeting the Gold Award level.

David Smyth, senior partner, celebrating the firm’s success said “Our business development strategy has continued to put staff development, succession planning, staff motivation and job satisfaction at the core of delivering our services. Receiving the Investors in People Gold Award the first time was an excellent achievement, and to be awarded it again recognises the hard work everyone continues to deliver to provide industry-leading taxation, accountancy and payroll services. As a result we have developed strong business relationships throughout Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire.We are proud to have the recognition of our continued

successes, and the plans we have to continue to grow our business in future.”

The key findings of the review assessment showed that UHY WKH Partnership and Virtual Business Source Limited, continue to operate at the very highest levels of people management practice, using Investors in People to continue to help drive the business forward.The award is recognition of their commitment to staff learning and development and management effectiveness.

Investors in People conducted an independent review assessment during an intensive series of interviews carried out with a random selection of employees.The interviews allowed the Investors in People Assessor to gain an accurate picture of both organisations’ policies, benefits and daily working practices.

Some of the distinguishing features noted in the review assessment were the awareness by both senior management and staff of the leadership skills and professional competences required to achieve the high performance and quality of service to clients. Both organisations were noted to have a clear vision and values which were fully understood by all members of staff, with equal opportunities for everyone to receive the development and support to meet their targets and for their career progression.

If you would like a free review of your businesses current position, please call me anytime on 01462 687333 or 07850 504044.

There’s no obligation, just a great opportunity for you to get the benefit of an experienced professional looking for ways to improve things.

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

2

Accountants & auditors

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Village Life 132x45 23-3-12.indd 1

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

www.uhy-wkh.com February 2013 26/3/12 09:46:05

VILLAGE LIFE

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

Call Daniel on 01438 715362 or 07748 204 818 Email: oldwelwynconstruction@hotmail.co.uk Old Welwyn Construction 0811 HP.indd 1

February 2013

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

21/07/2011 14:05

11

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

Counselling Herts 2013 is here and I am sure many of you have made New Year resolutions of one kind or another; “Out with the old and in with the new”? Perhaps you are looking for some inspiration and optimism to help you move forward and make much needed changes in your life.

You can unlock your potential and gain inspiration by talking things through with a therapeutic counsellor who can help you look at what can be done, to accept what can not be changed and to move forward embracing new inspirations and potentials for a more meaningful and satisfying life.

My name is Elaine and my aim is to ensure that affordable counselling of a high standard is available to all. If you find yourself struggling with a difficult event in your life or a relationship difficulty then you can make an appointment today to talk to a qualified therapist in confidence.

Lost Your Way elaine@counsellingherts.co.uk

01462 435145 www.counsellingherts.co.uk

Member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy

February 2013

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business

Peony Floral Boutique This Valentine’s day (Thursday 14th February), treat your loved one to a romantic bouquet of flowers. Whether it’s classic red roses, a contemporary hand tied bouquet, a vase arrangement or a single rose, Peony Floral Boutique have lots of options to choose from to suit every budget. Visit www.peonyflorist.co.uk to see their full Valentine’s Day price list.

Peony will be delivering all day on the 14th to all the usual areas including Hitchin, Codicote, Welwyn Garden City, Welwyn, Knebworth, Harpenden and all the surrounding villages, as well as Stevenage and its surrounding villages. You can also collect your flowers from either the Codicote or the Stevenage indoor Market shop. They are happy to deliver a mix of flowers & gifts Alongside flowers you will find Valentine’s Day helium balloons, heart shaped luxury bath bombs, hand creams & bath products, jewellery, hand made cards & gifts.

Peony will be putting together some fantastic packages and to take all the stress out of Valentines Day, you can get everything you need in one place Call the Stevenage Shop on 01438 314345 Wednesday to Saturday or the Codicote Shop on 01438 821888 Monday to Saturday, alternatively you can email mail@peonyflorist.co.uk.

For all you brave men out there that are popping the question this Valentines Day don’t forget they also do fabulous wedding flowers…

Peony Floral Boutique, 121 High St, Codicote SG4 8UA & Unit 70 Stevenage Indoor Market, St Georges Place, Stevenage SG1 1EP www.peonyflorist.co.uk 01438 314345

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

February 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Come and enjoy a

Race Night on 9th February Call to book for

Valentine’s Day

February 2013

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

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NEELDENTISTRY Call us on 01438 712 713

Welcome to Neel Dentistry, a state-of-the-art, modern practice in the heart of Welwyn village.

Why come to see us • Wonderful professional highly trained staff who work Dr Neel Jaiswal BDS MFGDP (UK)

together for your benefit • Nominated best new practice UK and best team • General dentistry – we value your dental health and we want you to keep your teeth for the rest of your life • Dental implants – a great solution for missing teeth and replacing dentures • Teeth whitening – quick and predictable professional results making your teeth look cleaner and more attractive • Smile makeovers – are you embarrassed by your teeth or don’t smile? We can help • Invisalign clear braces for adults and for teenagers – straight teeth last longer and look better • Cosmetic functional Dentures that look natural and fit well • Hygienist Treatments & Periodontist • Sedation services – for nervous patients

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Call in and see for yourself – and pick up some further details. We look forward to welcoming you.

43 High Street, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL6 9EE

01438 712713 www.neeldentistry.co.uk info@neeldentistry.co.uk

business

Austin’s on the move

A

ustin’s, Hertfordshire’s leading independent funeral directors, has purchased new premises in Hitchin.

The 312-year-old family run firm has been successfully trading in the town centre since 1994 and will be relocating just round the corner from their existing premises.

Claire Austin, the tenth generation of her family to run the company said: “Our Hitchin branch has been doing very well and we have seen a significant increase in business over the years.We therefore felt it was time to move to larger premises so that we could offer bereaved families even better facilities including a private parking area.”

The new branch which will be located at 76-77 Hermitage Road is currently undergoing extensive refurbishment and will open in the summer. In the meantime the company, which has won numerous business awards for its outstanding customer care, will continue to trade as normal from its premises at 96 Bancroft.

Austin’s has eight branches throughout Hertfordshire and also owns and operates Harwood Park Crematorium and Memorial Gardens in Stevenage.

For further information, visit www.austins.co.uk or call 01462 438422

Personal, caring and independent.

The complete funeral service 224 4 hour hour service ser vice • P Private rivate C Chapels hapels of of Rest Rest •M Memorial emorial SStonemasons tonemasons • FFuneral un neral P Plans lans •O Own wn C Crematorium rematorium

Serving the local community for ten generations

www.austins.co.uk STEVENAGE • 01438 316623 HITCHIN • 01462 438422 KNEBWORTH • 01438 812365 BUNTINGFORD • 01763 274111

WELWYN GARDEN CITY • 01707 390018 WELWYN • 01438 714686 HERTFORD • 01992 582052 WARE • 01920 468551

austins_dove_LAND_HPC_129x186_artwork.indd 1

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21/11/11 09:52:14

February 2013

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

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20/01/2011 10:0919

travel focus

Cruising

This month we look at the fastest growing holiday choice...

W

hen deciding what to do for your next holiday you may want to consider taking a cruise.The popularity of cruising has soared over the past decade and the cruise industry has responded by building larger ships and increasing the number of ports of call.You can count on superb dining choices, spacious and comfortable accommodations, non-stop onboard activities, all sorts of fun and adventurous programs at each individual port of call, Broadway style nightly entertainment and much more.With cruising steadily receiving the highest customer satisfaction ratings throughout the travel industry, you can count on an experience that will wow you and leave you wanting more.

Cruise ships are “floating hotels” and like hotels they come in different star ratings, tastes and sizes, ranging 20

from party ships, traditional cruises to the new modern style of cruising.

It is very important to ask which style of cruise you are looking at so this matches your holiday needs. For example the Carnival Cruise Ships are known for their nonstop party atmosphere, Fred Olsen are the more traditional cruise ship and P&O can cater for just about everything. Here are a few questions and answers to help you have the cruise know how!

How will I get to the ship?

Many cruise ships sail from the UK or alternatively you can opt for a fly cruise where you will fly to the destination and have a transfer to the ship, this is popular for the long haul cruises such as the Caribbean.

How much luggage can I take?

On cruises sailing from and returning

to the UK you can take as many bags as you can fit into your cabin. On fly-cruises you’ll be restricted to the airline’s baggage allowance.

I don’t know what to pack!

During the day casual wear is ideal with comfortable shoes for exploring ashore. Although cruising isn’t as formal as it once was, passengers still love to dress up in the evening.

You normally find a couple of nights where you can really glam up such as the Captain’s cocktail party.

Is the main destination normally the port?

Usually yes, but in some countries you may have to dock in an alternative location. In these cases, the itinerary will list the port in brackets alongside the destination, e.g. Rome (from Civitavecchia). Shore excursions are offered from your ship to your

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

February 2013

travel focus

destination, with public transport and taxis available for those wishing to explore independently.

How long do we get to explore?

This can be anything from half a day to a couple of days depending on your chosen itinerary.This will all be listed in the cruise company’s brochure.

What happens if I am unwell?

Every cruise ship contains a well equipped Medical Centre with qualified doctors and nurses for your peace of mind.

I am not sure if I will like a cruise?

Why not try one of the taster cruises for 2 nights sailing from the UK, this will give you an idea if cruising is for you and give you a real insight to the vast size of the cruise ships and all the onboard facilities.

February 2013

If you would like to find out more about cruises or help to find your dream holiday or city break, call Off Broadway Travel on 01438 716200, visit www.offbroadwaytravel.com or email enquiries@offbroadwaytravel.com.

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

21

lifestyle

North Herts Ramblers’ Dog Walks Three Christmases ago, Jenny Mason was given a membership for the Ramblers as a gift from her children. She was shocked to find out that she could not take her dogs out on North Herts walks as the members didn’t like dogs out with them, and there were no leaders willing to lead any walks with dogs. She offered her services and was factored into the programme.

Jenny told us, “Initially, I led five walks of 4-5 miles in the following programme, starting from a pub and offering lunch on their return. They had of course to be dog friendly. This proved to be no problem at a time when all business is good business. The walks proved very popular and attracted those with and without dogs but who were happy to have dogs along. We now have around 50 on our email list and 6 of these are prepared to and are capable of leading walks, which now take place every Saturday morning.

We are now a recognised branch of North Herts Ramblers’ and I am on the committee. We enjoy all the benefits of being part of the national charity and our leaders are covered by their insurance, some of us have supported their Paws on Tour Holidays at Hassness House on Buttermere in the Lake District and scrambled up Haystacks and Red Pike with our dogs.

Aside from pub based walks we have introduced, ‘ Bring it and Share it’ lunch walks and banded together for a private walking holidays in the Ayr Valley in Germany. We are also off to Tenerife in March. (We obviously don’t take the dogs on these jaunts). All are welcome to come on any of our walks.”

For further information, visit www.northhertsramblers.webs.com or call Jenny on 01438 871580

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WEDNESDAY St.Nicholas Park Pavilion Pilgrims Way, Stevenage, SG1 4PT 10:00 - 11:30 am (Slim & Aerobics)

TUESDAY Woolmer Green Village Hall, Hall Lane, Woolmer Green, Knebworth, SG3 6XA 09:45 - 11:15 am (Slim & Aerobics)

Kingshott School Stevenage Road, Hitchin, SG4 7JX 6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics) 7:30 - 9:00 pm (Slim & Aerobics)

St.John’s Community Centre St. Johns Road, Hitchin, SG4 9JP 6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics) 7:30 - 9:00 pm (Slim & Aerobics)

Please call or e-mail to BOOK your place!

THURSDAY St.Nicholas Park Pavilion Pilgrims Way, Stevenage, SG1 4PT 6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics) 7:30 - 9:00 pm (Slim & Aerobics) SATURDAY Sports Hall, North Hertfordshire College, Hitchin Centre, Cambridge Road, Hitchin, SG4 0JD Now 09:30 - 11:00 am running (Slim & Aerobics)

JOIN FOR FREE!* iNCludes free PaCk

classes!

*New members only. Class price: £6.50.

Please bring voucher to claim.

22

Call Nicola on 01438 940 912

nicola.maddison@rosemaryconley.com www.rosemaryconley.com

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

February 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Easter Break at

KNEBWORTH LUXURY CARE HOME The Easter period will soon be upon us. Perhaps you would like some company over this time? Rather than spending it on your own why not check in for a pampering break at Knebworth Care Home We are a luxury care home set back from London Road in the peaceful Hertfordshire village of Woolmer Green.

You can treat yourself to a special time in luxurious surroundings which includes our Jubilee CafĂŠ, licensed bar and landscaped grounds and enjoy wonderful food and companionship.

For details of packages for long stay, short stay, nursing or residential care or to come and see what we have to offer, please contact Jackie Clarke on 01438 814 580.

We look forward to the opportunity to show you round.

STAGG PLUMBING & HEATING Specialists in Annual Boiler/Central Heating Services Plumbing and Heating Requirements Boiler & Heating Installations Boiler Upgrades Power Flushing Pumps, Radiators & Valves Hot & Cold Water Tanks All Plumbing & Heating work undertaken

For a free no obligation quote contact: 01438 712712 www.staggproperty.co.uk

info@staggproperty.co.uk

STAGG PROPERTY SERVICES LTD February 2013

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

23

VILLAGE LIFE

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 Please mention The Hitchin Village Directory when responding to adverts 28 1 Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 24 David Thomas Garages HP 1110.indd Village

21/10/2010 10:46 February 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Deep Cleaning plus Fast Drying for Upholstery, Carpets, Leather Cleaning Amtico & Karndean Floors Cleaned, Carpets & Fabric Protector Leather Renovation, Burn Retufting, Oriental Rugs & Curtains Specialist Recommended By Leading Retailers, Insurance Companies & Other Cleaners!

Professional, Reliable & Good Value for Money 25 years experience Courteous & Uniformed Operatives - not a Franchise We operate in Stevenage, Hitchin and the surrounding areas

74 High Street, Codicote, SG4 8XD

www.cleaningneeds.co.uk

Francesca’s

Mobile Hairdressing

Specialising in: Cuts & Blow Dry

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

Colour & Colour Correction Hi Lights, Low Lights

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

07579 007 049 February 2013

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

25

VILLAGE LIFE

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

FENCING

abley QP 0711.indd 1

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 26

Are you a local Removals Company looking for more business?

17/06/2011 11:11

Village Life is looking for a reliable Removals Company 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

February 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

For Specialist Matrimonial Advice

JCS SOLICITORS Divorce & Separation Cohabitation Children

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

We cover Herts & Beds.

Tel: 01438 820 946 www.jcssolicitors.co.uk

127 High Street, Kimpton, Herts, SG4 8QN

5 Pondcroft Welwyn Garden City Hertfordshire AL7 3PX

The flooring store that comes to your door

Hill House, 1 St Albans Rd, Codicote, Herts, SG4

Leaflet Delivery

Carpets Vinyls Laminates Wood Adaptations & repairs

Would you like your leaflet to be delivered along with Village Life?

for a free quotation call Ewen McPherson on

Just £35 per 1,000

l

l

07966 463761 or

01707 338505 Email: info@eccarpets.com the pleasure is underfoot February 2013

Call Melanie on

01438 216 950

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory p 27

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

what’s on

What’s on in february...

Saturday 2nd - Sunday 24th February, 12-4pm daily Snowdrops at Bennington Lordship Guided Walks – Mondays & Wednesdays at 2pm, £1 Maximum of 30 people – tickets are sold on the day in the entrance kiosk on a first come first served basis, sorry but we cannot take bookings for places by email or telephone. Free Parking. Refreshments. RHS members: Free entry 2nd - 8th Feb

Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th February, 12pm–4pm NGS Open Garden at Walkern Hall, Stevenage A winter woodland of snowdrops and aconites in a medieval hunting park open in aid of the NGS, raising money for nursing and caring charities.

Adult £3.50, Children free, www.ngs.org.uk

Saturday 16 Feb 2013, 7pm - 12am Heart of Herts Casino Night for Herts Air Ambulance, Fairway Tavern, Old Herns Lane, W.G.C AL7 2ED Fun filled evening of dinner, dancing and casino games. Drinks reception, two course dinner and disco. Tickets £25 per person, 0845 2417 690.

Saturday 16th February to Sunday 24th February February Frolics at Willows Farm Village, London Colney, St. Albans Newborn lambs daily in lambing marquee with bottle-feeding demonstrations, Bo Peeps fun hunt for her lost sheep with prize, farmyard animals, fun fair rides, synthetic ice rink, JCB Young Drivers Zone, under cover adventure play in Captain Chicken’s Egg Dodge and Woolly Jumpers indoor play barn, Tristan the Runaway Tractor and Mad Science farming shows in Woolly’s Showtime Theatre.

CROSSWORD

Sunday 17th February, 10.00am – 1.00pm Wheathampstead Farmers Market Every month on the third Sunday, enjoy a sumptuous range of some the best local food you can buy; fresh crunchy vegetables, lovingly preserved jams and pickles, hot chillis, locally reared beef, pork and lamb, fresh eggs, a great wet fish stall, plants and much more.

Tuesday 19th February Children’s Craft Activity at Mill Green Museum & Mill, Welwyn AL9 5PD £3 per child, one accompanying adult free admission. Children must have a parent or guardian on the premises at all times during their visit, unless otherwise stated. Tea and coffee facilities for parents and grandparents to enjoy.

North Herts Dog Walks www.northhertsramblers.webs.com Saturday, 9th Feb: Station Pub, Knebworth, SG3 6AT. Leader: Kathie, 01438 940594 Tuesday, 12th Feb: The Bell, Codicote, SG4 8XD. Leader: Kathie, 01438 940594 Saturday, 23rd Feb: The Raven, Hexton, SG5 3JB. Leader: Jenny, 01438 871580 Saturday, 2nd Mar: North Star, Mardley Hill, AL6 0TA. Leader: Viv, 01438 813210 GET YOUR EVENT LISTED FOR FREE HERE, EMAIL: mail@villagelifemag.com or call us on 01438 216 950

Take a Break…

28

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Container (6)

1. Faint. (8)

4. Healing cream (8)

2. Shapes. (8)

9. Rouse. (6)

3. Vegetable. (4)

10. Turning into. (8)

5. Rigidity. (12)

12. Hold onto. (4)

6. Stepped. (4)

13. Of the sun. (5)

7. Newspaper chief. (6)

14. Spy. (4)

8. Labelled. (6)

17. Places of learning. (12)

11. Building. (12)

20. Decreasing in value. (12)

15. Flat. (5)

23. Single part. (4)

16. Commenced. (5)

24. Keen. (5)

18. Winter sporting event. (8)

25. Cease. (4)

19. Aubergine. (8)

28. Sleeplessness. (8)

21. Hanging ornament. (6)

29. Armpit. (6)

22. Thin paper. (6)

30. Lowest class for travellers. (8)

26. Eastern potentate. (4)

31. Snack. (6)

27. Spindle. (4)

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

February 2013

VILLAGE LIFE

Are you a local Window Cleaner looking for more business?

Village Life is looking for a reliable Window Cleaner 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 Village Tree Services Tree Services Professional Tree Care Services All Aspects of Tree Work Undertaken Fully Qualified and Insured Logs Available 

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

Make it happen for you...

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

I am a former Russian International Athlete.

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

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

I can help you Lose weight l Improve body shape & fitness l Build core strength & stability l Increase wellbeing Reduce stress & fatigue l Recover from injury or illness In addition, I can provide Cardio vascular training l Sport specific training Specialising in Running – 10k/Half/Full Marathon Sports massage l Cardiac Rehabilitation

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

P&G Property Maintenance Your local fencing specialists · Repairs & Maintenance · All Aspects of Carpentry   · Painting & Decorating  All work carried out to the highest standards  City & Guilds qualified  Service Fast & Reliable  Recommendations Available  Please call for a free no obligation quotation  07505 131 154  07581 042 948 

07845 222 321

Mob: 07717 744 274

February 2013

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

29

SHOWCASE

Advertise here TO 17500 LOCAL CUSTOMERS

JUST £99 for 4 months

CALL 01438 216 950 Includes design of advert

Need Extra Cash?

Part time – Full time – Your Time

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

01920 465 037 www.cupaz.com

To The Roof

Replacement Woodburner Glass Postal Service

Fine Glass Finishers Ltd 01799 530655 fgfltd@aol.com

I.B HYDE & SON All Types Of Plastering 35 Year Est. Family Business Internal & External Walls & Ceilings Skimmed Renovation - Lime Mortar Rendering, Pebble Dashing 01582 725266 or 07774 790400

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

41 High Street, Welwyn, AL6 9EF

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

01438 840240

JORDAN

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 30

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

07792 723971 07896 637639 Email: talkmighty@gmail.com

COMPUTER PROBLEMS

Want to kick your computer?

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

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

CODICOTE PHARMACY BRIDGE COTTAGE Codicote Online 0610.indd 123 HIGH ST,1CODICOTE, SG410/05/2010 8UB PHARMACY 01438 821418

OIL BURNER SERVICES ESTABLISHED 1968

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

VACANCIES Full/Part Time fully qualified Stylist required, working on a self-employed basis.

Full/Part Time fully qualified Nail Technician required, working on a self-employed basis. www.purehitchin.co.uk www.facebook.com/purehitchin

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

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

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

Terms and conditions apply.

February 2013

18:41

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