Village Life Hitchin December 2011

VillageLife Lifestyle | Business | Community www.villagelifemag.com

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ISSUE 29: DECEMBER 2011

Restaurant Review

Codicote Spice help tOWards Care COsts FOr OVer 65’s Local News and Business

PLUS WIN A MEAL FOR 2 • Codicote • Kimpton • Whitwell • Preston • Breachwood Green • Graveley • Little Wymondley • Great Wymondley • St. Ippolyts • Gosmore • Knebworth • Welwyn Village Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 1

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Don’t move IMPROVE! RMT Home Build Ltd are a family-run building contract firm based in Stevenage.We’ve been in the industry since 1989 and work with customers across Hertfordshire and the South East.

We cover all projects, small, medium or large and pride ourselves on offering a premium service and value for money.

Our team comprises of highly skilled and qualified tradesmen.

We specialise in • Extensions • Refurbishments • Loft Conversions • Basements • Kitchens • Painting & Decorating • Windows & Doors • Roofing • Fencing & Decking • Driveways & Patios Contact us for references or to read letters from our happy customers “In the space of 4 weeks it’s gone from being a tired, dated flat to being a fabulous modern home...” “...thanks for making our new house feel like home. It was always going to be a big project and you managed to make it happen in a short time and put up with our demands...” “...brilliant from start to finish RMT as a company have been amazing...”

For a free no obligation quotation Call: 0800 542 3122 / 01438 310063 Email: info@rmthomebuild.co.uk www.rmthomebuild.co.uk

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WELCOME TO DECEMBER We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all your positive comments and support over the last twelve months, and not to forget a special thank you to all our advertisers for their continued support.

Finally we would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.

We are now on Facebook so please come and find us at facebook.com/villagelifemagazine.

Don’t forget to drop us a line with any stories and events so we can feature them in the magazine as we really value your input in keeping everything local. Phone 01438 216950 or email mail@villagelifemag.com Bye for now,

CALL uS: 01438 216950 EMAiL uS: mail@villagelifemag.com

Jose & Melanie

CONTENTS 4:

Local news

6:

Wellbeing: Marilyn Tuck – Christmas Down Under

8:

Business: Services for small businesses

9:

Local Business Focus: Copper Beech Art Gallery

ViSit uS AnD READ thE MAgAzinE OnLinE: www.villagelifemag.com COPPER BEECH GALLERY: PAGE 9

PEONY FLORISTS: PAGE 18

10: Restaurant Review: Codicote Spice Indian Restaurant 18: Local Business Focus: Peony Florist & Gift Shop 28: What’s on in December/Take a break Where Can You Find Village Life?

Village Life Magazine has a readership of 15,000 people and is delivered to homes and businesses across 12 villages. Find us in Codicote, Kimpton,Whitwell, Preston, Breachwood Green, Graveley, Little Wymondley, Great Wymondley, St. Ippolyts, Gosmore, Knebworth and Welwyn Village.

December 2011

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

01438 216950, www.villagelifemag.com © 2011 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

Update on Proposed Parking Charges in Welwyn Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council (WHBC) have agreed that there may be a better way to run car parks in the village. The latest proposal will see the parish council leasing the car parks from the borough council for a period of 125 years, and enforcement within the High Street car park will remain the responsibility of the borough council. As control of the car parks will then be under the control of the parish council, the borough council will no longer seek to introduce car parking charges in the village.Leader of WHBC, Councillor John Dean, said: “Following the consultation on the initial proposals for managing car parking in Welwyn, and the strength of public feeling displayed, we have proposed this alternative option to the parish council. I hope that this solution is found to be acceptable to all parties, in helping to manage the parking issues in the village.

Negotiations need to be brought to a successful conclusion in order for the threat of parking charges to be completely removed, however this shows what can be achieved when a whole village comes together and Village Life is very pleased to hear this news!

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Over 65 and need help in the home?

Get some EXTRA HELP to claim the money you could be entitled to…

Extra Help, the affordable home help solution is continuing to grow across Hertfordshire. They provide a range of home help, domestic, transport and companionship services with the aim of enabling people to be comfortable in their own homes for longer.

There is a concern that people are not getting the help they need as they are worried about the cost of hiring a home helper. There has been a lot in the media recently indicating that elderly people are not aware of Attendance Allowance, a tax free, non means tested benefit for people over the age of 65. It is available for people who may need assistance with caring for themselves and could be worth up to £73.60 per week. The benefit is paid directly into the recipient’s bank account and can be spent however they wish.

Since starting up Extra Help Stevenage in May 2011 the owner, Rachel Homewood states “We are increasingly finding that even people who are aware of Attendance Allowance are being put off from applying by the length of the application form which is currently 28 pages long. This is a daunting task for anyone, but even more so for those with poor mobility or sight. There are so many people who just can’t face the forms and are missing out.”

With the cold weather approaching Extra Help is committed to playing their part in getting the people in our community the help that they need. They are currently offering FREE assistance with completing the Attendance Allowance forms. A CRB checked member of the team will visit you in your own home and help you and your family complete the forms and get them sent off. You are under no pressure or obligation to sign up to any of their services after this.

Spaces are limited so if you need assistance please call and speak to your local manager on 0845 219 8978 (charged at local rate).

monster munchies

The White Hart in Welwyn was featured on the Good Food Channel’s Monster Munchies show last month, after they took part in a mad cottage pie cook-off at the Hatfield Country Show.

Weighing a whopping one tonne, the colossal cottage pie took the staff at The White Hart and many of its regulars and neighbours 24 hours to create – which set the world record for the Largest cottage pie, according to World Records Academy (www.worldrecordsacademy.org).

The winning pie consisted of 450.5 kilos of beef (the equivalent to five front ends of beef), 550 kilos of potatoes, 100 kilos of carrots, 100 kilos of onions, 25 kilos of celery and 10 kilos of garlic.

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

December 2011

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The STaTion Christmas menu available – Book for Christmas Now!

in DECEMBER: 2nd Dec – Rock & Roll Bingo 16th Dec – J Ryan performing at the Station from 8pm to 12pm 17th Dec – Crazy Colins Santa Show for the kids at 4pm 24th Dec – Christmas Eve Party 30th Dec – Rock & Roll Bingo – Last for 2011 31th Dec – DJ & Karaoke

2 meals for £8.95 available all day monday to friday Quiz night every thursday £1 entry, cash prize

The STaTion The Station Knebworth, 1 Station Approach, Knebworth SG3 6AT

01438 812 224

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WELLBEING

Christmas Down under The fun in Marilyn tuck’s work is the variety. People see her for all sorts of things: snoring, teeth grinding, and sleeping; flying, needles, thunder and claustro phobias; finding, mending and improving relationships; and, as she mentioned before, emotional stressy stuff that brings on anxiety, anger, sadness, comfort eating, drinking and smoking. Often entwined these can be unpicked and leave a person really pleasantly changed within a few weeks, or a few months. The trick is motivation, want to do it, ask for help, and then let it happen.

H

ello again and here we are, already into the festive rush and the end of the year.

Today I thought I might tell you about Christmas time ‘down under’ (I was brought up in the North Island of NZ and moved to Queensland in Oz in my early 30’s) I have been in England just long enough to put up with the cold weather, well, at least until the festive decorations come down.

Now, if you were to drill straight down through the earth from here in Herts, you would probably come out in Dunedin or Christchurch in New Zealand, and while it would be exactly half way around the world, summer time, and12 hours further into the day, you wouldn’t be standing upside down. Isn’t it amazing how wonderful gravity is and how the whole universe works.

So, yes, it is summer time over there now. The school year is coming to a close with exams, parent interviews, end of year reports, school plays, and all the hustle and bustle of planning summer holidays, christmas presents and everything all at once. Schools finish mid December and the next school year begins early February.

One of the first holiday jobs was to go off with Dad into the countryside to find a tree branch 6

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that could become a Christmas tree.

The lovely fir trees you have for Christmas trees here do not grow in those warmer climates. All we got were plain, often scraggy, pine trees, but we knew no better because everyone had similar, if they didn’t have a fake ‘shop’ one. The pine smell was nice though and the tall branch was secured in an old bucket and decorated. We had no concept of a white Christmas, we had never ever even seen or touched snow!

Naturally the Christmas presents we liked were bikes and outdoor stuff for the summer holidays, fun things to do in the swimming pool or at the beach, kites, model planes that you made and went out and used, remote control stuff that you took out onto the front lawn and driveway, or down onto the sand at the beach. Of course books, movies and computer games are really popular, too, and because school is out for 6 whole weeks presents can be fully enjoyed all of the holidays.

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

December 2011

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WELLBEING

We didn’t stand on ceremony on Christmas day. It went like this… wake up, open a present left by your pillow, usually a book. (left to keep you entertained while Mum and Dad got to stay asleep until at least 6am) Then, all up and off to the Christmas tree to open the presents with breakfast somewhere in amongst that. It’s likely grandparents had stayed the night to allow them to join the fun, but if not then we all had to wait around for them to front up before we started. It was far better when they stayed over.

After breakfast, depending on your point of view it was off to church or the beach. If the latter it was a good opportunity to try out some of the new pressies and have some fun in the warm water. Often anyone coming for Christmas lunch would come along, too.

December 2011

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In Queensland preparations for lunch were minimal; everyone brought something. We usually had cold meat, salads and cold deserts laid out on the breakfast bar and we helped ourselves, most often still in our swimwear, and ate it out under the pergola. The weather was too hot for much else. However, sometimes we’d make a fuss, dress up summery, use our nice table and sit down properly under the ceiling fan.

We’d be ready for a fun swim in the backyard pool afterwards followed by quiet time to chat, or do the jigsaw puzzle. Some sort

of outdoors game often happened later in the afternoon; we had a badminton net up. The evening meal was usually a bbq, the kids having great fun in and out of the water.

A fab Christmas followed by summer holidays, often camping at the beach if you weren’t already there. A fitting way to finish the year!

Enjoy your Christmas and know I am here if you need help with new years resolutions such as stopping smoking, worry, self esteem, weight loss, sports improvements, and the like.

My soothing hypnotic CDs and mp3’s are worth checking out for Christmas presents, they offer real help for confidence, sleeping and healing. Find out more on www.marilyntuck.co.uk or call and ask 07962 811907.

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

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BUSINESS

Services for small businesses Adam Fernandes, Business Development Manager and Portfolio Holder from WKH Chartered Accountants talks about his firm and the services they can provide small businesses…

A

s this year comes to an end and we all look towards enjoying some time off with family and friends during the festive season, we know that small businesses are being hit hard by spiralling inflation, together with increased energy, transport and raw materials costs.We also know that businesses are being affected by cash flow issues including competitors undercutting firms on price, and late payment, and the situation doesn’t look set to change in the near future.

So as the NewYear looms and small businesses look to the future, and how they can continue to provide cost effective and up to date services, it may be time to review how your accountants and tax advisers can help you.

At WKH Chartered Accountants we believe that your business matters. Giving you confidence in your finances is our primary goal, whether you are a partnership, limited company, charitable organisation or individual.

WKH is an established accountancy firm with three offices and over 60 staff based in the North Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire area.We provide business solutions to clients around the country as well as throughout Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, East Anglia and London.

WKH Chartered Accountants provides a range of services, such as Audit & Assurance, Company Secretarial Services, Corporate Finance, Personal & Business Tax Compliance and Planning, Outsourced Payroll

and Bookkeeping, Agribusiness, Financial Planning, Later Life Security, H R Services, and Business Rescue & Recovery.

We work closely with you to ensure that our services are tailored to meet your needs with efficiency, accuracy and clarity. Our specialist advisors have extensive experience in their fields and have developed relationships that can support and enhance your business practice. In addition to preparing accounts for the regulators, our primary objective is to provide you, as a business owner, with information, explanations and suggestions that will help your business achieve its aims and objectives.

So, as well as ensuring that your tax liabilities are legally minimised and the financial affairs of you and your business are up to date, as you would expect of any good accountant, there is much more we can offer you to give you peace of mind and to free up your time to deal with the things that you enjoy.

• Worried about the impact of current employment law?

• Fed up with the time it takes dealing with your payroll?

• Would rather spend the weekend enjoying yourself rather than keeping your books up to date?

• Worried about whether you are completing your Vat returns correctly?

• Need help looking to raise finance?

• Just need someone to talk to about your business?

If the answer to any of these is yes then WKH can help you.

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

Because your business matters

■ Accountants & Auditors ■ Tax Advisors ■ Bookkeeping & Payroll ■ Corporate Finance ■ Financial Planning

Come to the professional with expert knowledge, www.wkhca.co.uk experience and resources to make a difference.

Letchworth: 01462 687333 • Royston: 01763 247321• Also in Cambridge.

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

17/03/2011 13:21 December 2011

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VILLAGE LIFE

Tea time at

The Copper Beech Art Gallery

In this now flourishing gallery with some of Hertfordshire’s most successful artists, you can enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake.The owner, Fran has transformed the once photographic studio in to a warm and cosy tea room with all the traditional style of old England. Fran gives everyone a friendly welcome and makes you feel right at home.Tea is served in beautiful bone china cups and saucers and one of Fran’s fabulous collection of tea pots. All the scrummy cakes are homemade and are as different as the decor. Some of the cakes include St Clements which blends orange, lemon and lime, Chocolate and Cherry – a moist recipe which includes fresh cherries, coffee and Baileys icing (one of Copper Beeches favourites), Coconut and Fresh Raspberries and many more. If you fancy lunch, there is a delicious menu of hot food including Pasta, Chilli, Curry and Paninis which are all homemade.

Enjoying your food surrounded by stunning works of art.

Bring along this advert for a free pot of tea with either a meal or slice of cake.

Copper Beech gallery & Vintage tea Room – Little Wymondley, herts, Sg4 7hE tEL: 07794 969 908

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 1 Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 December 2011 Construction 0811 HP.indd Village

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21/07/2011 14:05 9

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LOCAL BUSINESS FOCUS

Codicote Spice 01438 820166 / 821613 79 high Street, Codicote, herts, Sg4 8XE

T

his month I visited Codicote’s Indian Restaurant – Codicote Spice. Based on the high street near the Bell Motel, the restaurant offers a warm and cosy atmosphere with 2 seating areas for up to 54 guests. I was welcomed by Mohammed Rahman who has been running the restaurant since 1996.The chef has over 35 years experience and has been there from the beginning.

Mohammed told me, “We have very high standards and are proud of our 4 star hygiene rating.We use the best quality ingredients and serve generous portions. As well as offering a great range of traditional Indian dishes, we have a large selection of exclusive special dishes such as King Prawn Delight and Lamb Passanda. If there is something that is not on the menu that the customer would like then we will prepare it for them.”

I told Mohammed that I enjoyed quite spicy dishes so he recommended the Chicken Chilli Masalla (a chicken dish with fresh herbs and green chillies) with Sag Aloo (spinach and potato dish) and Mushroom Fried Rice.The food was

delightful; the chicken dish was absolutely delicious and made a great change from the usual Madras and Tikka Masalla that I normally go for. The Sag Aloo was really well cooked and complimented the chicken perfectly and the rice was cooked beautifully and very tasty.

Codicote Spice is open every day including bank holidays from 6.00pm to 11.30pm and 6.00pm to 12.00am Fridays and Saturdays.They also offer a takeaway service with free delivery within 3 miles of Codicote.

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

We are offerinG oUr readers tHe CHanCe to Win a meal

for tWo!

simply tell us the name of the chicken dish we enjoyed. email your answer, name and address to mail@villagelifemag.com

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

December 2011

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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 David Thomas Garages HP 1110.indd 1

December 2011

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

21/10/2010 10:46

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The red lion

A Very Warm Welcome at The Red Lion, Preston this Christmas.

The UK’s First Community Owned Public House still going strong since 1984.

Come and enjoy our widely acclaimed real ales, fresh and locally sourced menu and superb wine.

For bookings please call

Ray and Jo on 01462 459585 www.theredlionpreston.co.uk.

The Red Lion, The Green, Preston, Nr Hitchin, Hertfordshire Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 12

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VILLAGE LIFE

RUSSELL DICKSON GARDEN LANDSCAPE DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

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

December 2011

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

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Guaranteed savings for your home!

The Utility Warehouse ‘Double the Difference’ Price Promise means you can benefit from:

• The UK’s cheapest Home Phone • The UK’s cheapest Home Phone and Broadband bundle • The UK’s cheapest Mobile tariffs

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Charges, terms and conditions apply.

For full details of the Utility Warehouse Price Promise see www.utilitywarehouse.co.uk

Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 14

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VILLAGE LIFE

Emily’s Tea Shop & Waterhall Farm

Wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

ENJOY: Cream Teas, Homemade cakes, light lunches & Fair-trade beverages.

VISIT: The animals at the free open farm, our restored 19th century barn teashop.

DISCOVER: The farmhouse garden.

We can cater for children’s parties & private functions.

December Opening Times: Open 10am - 4pm Tues 29th November to Sun 4th December Sat 10th & Sun 11th December, Sat 17th & Sun 18th December Then closed until Sat 31st December when normal hours are resumed including Mon 2nd January Waterhall Farm, The Valley, Whitwell, Herts, SG4 8AF. Tel: 01438 871 928

Fed up with Limescale and the other effects of hard water?

• Help alleviate dry skin conditions such as Eczema • Reduce detergent consumption by up to 65% • Keep bathrooms and kitchens looking clean & new for longer Total Soft Water can help; from either our Harpenden or Hitchin shops we can supply a wide range of water softeners, drinking water filters and salt.

For expert, friendly advice and simple, hassle free installations visit Total Soft Water; it couldn’t be easier to rid your life of the ravages of limescale. Free quotations and home surveys.

Bring this advert along for a free bag of salt when you buy 5.

Check what our customers say about us at www.totalsoftwater.com or call us on 01462 455772 Visit our stores at 130 Cambridge Road, Hitchin or 54 Westfield Road, Harpenden Total Soft Water 0711 HP.indd 1 December 2011

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

17/06/2011 11:5915

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VILLAGE LIFE

Welwyn’s brand new dental practice ‘Neel Dentistry’ is now open. We offer a wide variety of general and cosmetic dentistry – such as teeth whitening, veneers, implants and smile makeovers.

Is your routine check up due? Maybe you would like a second opinion? We are here to help.

Discover modern dentistry in our comfortable, state of the art practice in Welwyn High Street.

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 Telephone: 01438 712713 or visit: www.neeldentistry.co.uk

NEELDENTISTRY 16 Neel Dentistry HP 0711.indd 1

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

17/06/2011 December08:40 2011

25/11/2011 15:39

Create your own Unique Space Energy Rated Glazing. Fully Installed Solar PV Systems.

• Conservatories • Orangeries • Sunrooms • Porches • Composite Entrance Doors • Bi-Folding Doors • Energy Rated Glazing • Garage Conversions • Solar PV Systems Fully Installed • Guaranteed Income for 25 years • Index Linked and TAX FREE

Beat Spiralling Energy Prices and help the environment by creating your own Electricity

With our SOLAR PV SYSTEM typical customers are earning £700 - £1400 each year, and are saving from reduced electricity bills. Plus they receive an additional income by selling any surplus electricity they generate.

Your specialist local company, who build with care and dedication from design to completion

CALL 0800 0751779

Visit our online showroom at www.conservatech.co.uk

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QUALITY HOME IMPROVEMENTS

01438 728485 • 01992 462372 Try our FREE online quoter

25/11/2011 15:39

VILLAGE LIFE

The Peony

121 high St, Codicote, herts Sg4 8uA 01438 821888 www.peonyflorist.co.uk

Florist & Gift Shop

T

his Christmas at Peony we will be doing our handmade fresh holly and spruce wreaths, we always have a selection made up, but if you would like something specific, or are having a colour scheme this Christmas we are happy to decorate them to your liking. We will also have a selection of tasteful artificial wreaths, and fresh flower wreaths can be pre ordered. We will be doing table arrangements, with or without candles, traditional & contemporary, so for the person who has everything or for your own table why not pop in and discuss your requirements.

Along side this we will have a wide selection of gift wrapped plants, flower arrangements and hand tied bouquets, all to tempt you.We will be delivering right up to and including Christmas Eve and cover a large delivery

area, as well as belonging to a relay service allowing you to send flowers nationally and internationally, so surprise someone with a stylish arrangement.

Our ever growing selection of gifts (people often say it’s a treasure trove, the more you look the more you see!) include jewellery, (some handmade locally), scarves, decorations, home wares, luxury toiletries, fair and ethically traded gifts, sparkly pieces ideal for girls! Lot’s of ideal stocking fillers, picture frames, hand made cards and much more! All our prices are very reasonable so pop down & have a browse, we are always happy to make you a cup of tea whilst you do!

Email your requirements to mail@peonyflorist.co.uk and Lotty will give you a call back, or visit the shop on Codicote High Street.

MILL GREEN MILL & MUSEUM Mill Green, Bush Hall Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 5PD 10am-5pm Tue, Wed and Thur & 2-5pm Sunday and Bank Holidays

WELWYN ROMAN BATHS

Welwyn By-Pass, Welwyn Village, Hertfordshire AL6 9FG 2-5pm Sat, Sun and Bank Holidays (January-November) 2-5pm daily during Hertfordshire School Holidays (except December)

T: 01707 271362 E: museum@welhat.gov.uk www.welhat.gov.uk/museum

WELWYN ROMAN BATHS

• Working watermill • Events & activities all year round • Art & Local History exhibitions • Craft Workshops & Cookery courses • Birthday parties / Room hire • Seasonal riverside Cream Teas

• Tunnel through time to see the remains of a Roman bathing suite • Unique site under A1 motorway • Children’s activities & Quiz trail • Displays on local life in Roman times • Guided & Audio Tours available

Admission (at each site): £2.50 for Adults, Children free

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

Museum/Aug11/N/v.life

MILL GREEN MUSEUM

December 2011

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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

December 2011

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

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20% OFF BLINDS

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Inspiring Ideas, Expertly Delivered.

*Offers are for a limited period only and are subject to availability on selected fabrics and colours, while stocks last. Terms and conditions apply.

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25/11/2011 15:39

VILLAGE LIFE

Experience The Most Thorough Clean Ever Seen… or it’s FREE!.......        

 

Superb Professional Cleaning Of• • • • •

Carpets.

Upholstery.

Leather.

Oriental & Modern Rugs.

Tile & Natural Stone.

Marie & Dean Haywood Owners- Five Star Furnishing Care

Call now for your Free in Home No-Obligation quotation

0800 0378094/01582 571953 www.fivestarfurnishingcare.com

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 1 December 2011 Direct HP 0111 2.indd Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 21

20/01/2011 10:0921

25/11/2011 15:39

VILLAGE LIFE

Hide-A-Way Holiday Chalets The perfect Hide-A-Way for a relaxing holiday

Chalets on a well maintained site in Scratby, just four miles way from Great Yarmouth. Heated outdoor pool and a sandy beach just a short walk away.

Many attractions and places to visit including the Norfolk Broads in the vicinity. Chalets sleep up to 6 people. Disabled facilities available.

Call Allan on 01438 727 834 or 07970 014 839 or email hideaway@bide-a-while.co.uk

22 Hide-A-Way HP 0511.indd 1

Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 22

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

13/04/2011 14:00 December 2011

25/11/2011 15:39

VILLAGE LIFE

Do you or does someone you know need some Extra Help?

Our services include: • Meal preparation • Shopping and errands • Ironing • Escorts (Bingo, hospital etc) • Regular or one-off services • Dog walking • Senior sitting

From £10 per hour Are you living on your own and finding things difficult?

Getting older and finding everyday tasks harder?

Need some help getting to the Dr or to hospital appointments?

We can help by providing friendly, professional, reliable, police checked carers.

Call us now and let us provide a helping hand.

Tel 0845 219 8978 www.extra-help.co.uk

extra help a helping hand

Bide-A-While

RESIDENTIAL CARE HOME Bide-A-While is a small, family run Residential Care Home in Stevenage providing day, evening and respite care for the elderly.

Warm, relaxed family atmosphere En-suite rooms Fresh, daily prepared meals Baths, showers, hairdressing and chiropody available Range of activities: Keep Fit, Arts & Crafts, Music and Quizzes Highly trained, friendly staff Transport service available

Call now on 01438 220500 to arrange a visit or enquire about availability.

Email: enquiries@bide-a-while.co.uk Website: www.bide-a-while.co.uk Bide a While December 2011 0511 HP.indd 1

Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 23

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

13/04/2011 15:0423

25/11/2011 15:39

1/2 A5 advert_Layout 1 12/05/2011 16:14 Page 1 VILLAGE LIFE

Looking for something a little different? newleaf marketing communications may just be what you are looking for newleaf marketing communications is a full service marketing consultancy.

We specialise in the design and print of promotional literature, branding and contract publishing. We also have a wealth of experience in managing media relations, online promotions, direct mail and photography.

At newleaf marketing communications we provide more than just creative skills but also the ability to listen, understand and solve complex issues quickly and efficiently.

For more information on how we can help your company call us today 01438 871968

W www.newleafmarcom.com E info@newleafmarcom.com T 01438 871968 Design

Print

Media Planning

Contract Publishing

Branding

More than just great ideas...

JD Plastering Clean, Reliable Plasterers with over 20 years experience

Jason Dimmock 07775 668 481 01582 724761 12 Whittingham Close Luton, Bedfordshire. LU2 9UR 24

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 JD Plastering 0311.indd 1

Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 24

December 2011 15/02/2011 14:33 25/11/2011 15:39

VILLAGE LIFE

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

For Specialist Matrimonial Advice

JCS SOLICITORS Divorce & Separation Cohabitation Children

 Call now on: 01438 833 671 spectrum IT support Solving your IT problems

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

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

silver workshop WELWYN

Deirdre Woolgar Jewellery Craftsman Designer

Suzanne Redfern

since 1985

Complementary Therapist

Welwyn based treatment room: ANGELIC REIKI GREEN RAY REIKI CRYSTALS GOLDEN GRID SYSTEM MASSAGE Fortnightly Meditation Group on a Wednesday evening at 7:30 pm in Welwyn

Gift vouchers available.

01438 718 417 07931 115 808 sue.redfern@burgert-haig.com December 2011

Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 25

‘THe silver workshop’ jewellery school Professional tuition in our fully equipped studio/workshop to suit all levels of ability.

A unique DIAMOND ENGAGMENT RING and bespoke JEWELLERY design creation service.

For information: E mail, info.deirdrewoolgar@aol.co.uk, Tel, Deirdre: 07974 045 167

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place c 25

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

25/11/2011 15:39

VILLAGE LIFE

FENCING SN MAINTENANCE

All Your Fencing Needs Supplied & Fitted

Repairs of Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Electric Cookers & Ovens and all domestic appliances.

Specialist in Hotpoint, Indesit, Ariston, Creda and Whirlpool.

Free Estimates Council Approved Hedge Cutting Garden Maintenance Friendly & Reliable Service

SHIRON

Call Simon on 07971 860 135 / 01707 326 366

Village Village Tree Services Tree Services

SN Fencing 0311.indd 1

HOME APPLIANCE REPAIRS

DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

Tel: 01438 720304

Mobile: 07739 922493

Andrew Sinclair

16/02/2011 09:18 QP 0310.indd 1 Shiron Domestic

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

Electrician

25/02/2010 12:34

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

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



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

26 Village Tree Services 0310 QP.indd 1

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

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

December 2011

22/02/2010 13:46

23 To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory please call Melanie on 01438 216 950 Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 26 25/11/2011

15:39

VILLAGE LIFE

body profile pilates strengthens & tones muscles | improves posture | rehabilitation | general fitness

mat classes

6-week course starting 3 January 2012

Tuesday evenings at Breachwood Green Village Hall Limited to 8 people, to ensure quality of teaching and progression Book your initial consultation NOW to secure your place

reformer pilates

One-to-one sessions in Breachwood Green

An effective workout to tone and strengthen your body more quickly as you work against the resistance of springs and pulleys (as used by the celebrities!)

Everyone can benefit regardless of fitness skill, age or injury INTRODUCTORY DISCOUNTED OFFERS

50% off initial consultation

|

25% off first block booking

Maria Hancock

Member of the Body Control Pilates Association and the Register of Exercise Professionals

07903 009199

bodyprofilepilates@yahoo.com www.bodyprofilepilates.com

Specialists in Plumbing and heating 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

Body Control Pilates is a registered trademark used under license

Cuts inComfort

Rabley Tree Care Rabley Tree Care Rabley

Stagg Property Services QP 0211.indd 1

Mobile Hairdressing Service

Styling, Colouring, Perming Fake Bake Spray Tanning from ÂŁ10 Hair Styling Lessons With over 25 years of professional industry experience, delivering your desired look is like second nature.

Friendly & Reliable with Competitive Prices

Call Esther on 01438 817 929 or 07887 891 315 Formerly of SAKS W.G.C December 2011

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

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 Rabley QP 0711.indd 1

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27 17/06/2011 11:11 25/11/2011 15:39

Take a Break…

village life

ACROSS

1. Nods off 5. Al-Jazeera viewer, probably 9. Crockett’s last stand 14. Border on 15. Tree trunk 16. 1998 Pulitzer winner Paula 17. Hammered designs 19. Garlic sauce 20. Santa... town 22. Catch some rays 23. Powder source 24. Ret. plan 27. Word on a Yankee dollar 30. French sailor and writer, Pierre __ 34. Marie Edmé Patrice de __, French president 1873-79 37. Red dye used in cosmetics 38. I’m dreaming of...

41. Gaggle contents 42. Hardy breed from Scotland 43. At a previous time 44. Fall bloomer 46. Felix or Garfield, e.g.

47. Name-serial number connector 49. Part of the Treasury Dept.

52. It’s...a lot like Christmas 60. Beelike 61. Suspensions of ongoing activities 62. Beautiful in Bologna 63. e.e.cummings, e.g.

64. __-Mall 65. Beer maker?

66. The largest of the Inner Hebrides 67. Ultimatum word

DOWN

1. ‘Keep off the grass!’ sayer, perhaps 2. Cain’s victim 3. Coccoon occupant 4. Rex of mystery 5. Wormwood 6. Seamstress Betsy 7. Smart __ (wise guy) opportunity to speak to the person who made 8. Gets drunk it makes it extra special. Wheelchair Access, 9. Take or use Refreshments available and Free Entry 10. Tarzan’s cover 11. Highly excited Tuesday 13th December 12. Thaw 13. Mixture Codicote History Society 18. Can.’s neighbor Talk: “Customs Officers, Excise Officers: History 21. It’s often at the door & Recollections” Alan Ruston, plus Christmas 24. GIF or JPEG, e.g.

25. Less refined Social Codicote Local History Society Peace 26. Throbs Memorial Hall at 8.00pm 28. Letters Taiwan can’t use Friday 16th, Saturday 17th 29. Knock off a bowler 31. Containing the heaviest known metal and Sunday 18th December 32. Princesses headwear A Christmas Carol 33. Map feature at Knebworth House 35. Hung-jury results This ever-popular festive reading, by the actor 36. Stopped fasting 37. Tee preceder Colin Greenslade, has been a favourite at 39. Canadian whisky Knebworth for the past 14 years. Start with a 40. Bother glass of mulled wine and a mince pie, and enjoy 44. __ Arbor, Mich.

Christmas carols performed from the minstrels’ 45. Supplies sparingly 48. Certain stipend gallery by local choirs. (Pre-booked event in 50. It makes a cavity Knebworth House, evening performances – 51. Hillside 16, 17, 18 December, plus a matinee – 52. Nursery dweller 53. Pointless weapon 17 December.) To book – 54. __ monster (lizard) www.knebworthhouse.com 55. Cranny’s partner or call 01438 810931 56. Color for Lee’s army GET YOUR EVENT LISTED FOR FREE 57. Not written HERE, EMAIL: mail@villagelifemag. 58. Squirts a squeak 59. Chard relative com or call us on 01438 216 950

What’s on in December Saturday 4th Dec 6.30pm Lighting of the Christmas Tree at The Red Lion in Preston Wednesday 7th December The Italian Circle of Mid-Herts, WGC Golf Club, Mannicotts, Off High Oaks Road, W.G.C, AL8 7BP ”A.Hardcastle – A Gentleman Archaeologist in Sicily”. An illustrated talk by author Alexandra Richardson Free Parking. For further information call 01707 372264 or 01438 715277.

Non-members £5 per visit.

Thursday 8th December 1st Jan 2012 Aladdin at the Hawthorne Theatre Welwyn

This spellbinding pantomime is full of music, magic and mayhem – plus lavish costumes and loads of laughs. The perfect Christmas treat for all the family. Tel – 01707 357117

Saturday 10th December 11am to 4pm Eden’s Secret Christmas Craft Fayre at Peace Memorial Hall, High Street, Codicote, SG4 8UQ

Prepare for Christmas in a warm and festive environment and discover unique gifts and tasty treats at affordable prices! Having the 28

Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 28

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

December 2011

25/11/2011 15:39

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 Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 29

25/11/2011 15:39

SHOWCASE

TRISH AND TRICKS CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINER (CRB checked)

41 High Street, Welwyn, AL6 9EF

Magic, Ventriloquism,

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

Balloon Modelling, Mini Disco, Party Games etc.

01438 714855 : 07740 093623 www.trishandtricks.com

COMPUTER PROBLEMS

michael shelley

electrical

Qualified electrician

Want to kick your computer?

“no job too small”

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

tel: 01438 820 820

Mobile: 07930 243651 Email: michael.shelley@live.co.uk

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

A member of ElecSa

The Roof 0610.indd 1 10/05/2010 I.B HYDE & SONCodicote OnlineTVTo Aerials and Satellite dishes

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

ADVERTISE HERE TO 15000 LOCAL CUSTOMERS FROM JUST £20pm!

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

01438 840240

THIS AD WORKS! Let’s face it, you just read it!

ADVERTISE HERE TO 15000 LOCAL CUSTOMERS FROM JUST £20pm!

CALL 01438 216950 Terms and conditions apply.

Call Jose on 01438 220 558 07734 387 478 www.mjsevents.com

Terms and conditions apply.

CODICOTE PHARMACY 01438821418

• Free prescription collection & delivery service • Flu vaccination service (book now – clinics begin in October)

• Passport photos & digital processing THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT PHARMACY

Tailored Wedding Discos providing the perfect end to your day.

• Pre-event meeting • Large Music Collection • State-of-the-Art Sound & Light Show • Background Music throughout the day • Ceremony Music • Can act as your MC • Wireless Mircophones for Speeches • Not an agency

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 MJS Events 0611 SC.indd 1

Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 30

D

18:41 123 HIGH ST, CODICOTE, SG4 8UB

Wedding Disco Specialists

CALL 01438 216950 30

BRIDGE COTTAGE PHARMACY

December 2011 18/05/2011 11:38 25/11/2011 15:39

y

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 Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 31

25/11/2011 15:39

BEAUTY STUDIO 160 High Street, Codicote, Herts, SG4 8UB

treat yourself this Christmas to a full set of cal gel nails £20 15% off Dermalogica Facials 10% off all waxing Full body massage £37.00 call 01438 820967 for an appointment Offers expiry date – January 2012

it’s a Snip 160 High Street, Codicote, Herts, SG4 8UB Full head foiled high lights wash cut & blow dry £50 with Hannah our new hair Stylist with proof of this voucher call 01438 821180 for an appointment visit www.itsasnip.webs.com Offer expiry date – January 2012

Village Life (Hitchin) Issue 29, 1211.indd 32

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