Village Life Hitchin January 2012

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ISSUE 30: JANUARY 2012

Interview: Celebrity Jewellery Designer

Alyssa Smith

interVieW: With KiMpton footBaLL ManaGer Employment Law Update

PLUS HAD – A HELPING HANDTO DISABLED AND OLDER PEOPLE • Codicote • Kimpton • Whitwell • Preston • Breachwood Green • Graveley • Little Wymondley • Great Wymondley • St. Ippolyts • Gosmore • Knebworth • Welwyn Village

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WELCOME TO JANUARY Happy New Year to all of our readers and advertisers!

We’ve got some great local stories for you this month along with our usual features. It is important to us to keep Village Life a local magazine, so if you have a story that you would like us to feature then please get in touch.

We are always pleased to hear feedback or any ideas on how we can improve the magazine. We’ve been asked by a few people to provide the answers to the puzzles page so you will now find the answers on our website each month – www.villagelifemag.com Don’t forget to email us with details of your local events so we can list them for you in the what’s on section.

We look forward to a great 2012!

CALL US: 01438 216950

Bye for now,

EMAIL US: mail@villagelifemag.com

Jose & Melanie

CONTENTS 4:

Local news

6:

Wellbeing: Marilyn Tuck – Resolutions and self change for 2012

8:

Business:WKH – HMRC Target campaigns for 2012

VISIT US AND READ THE MAGAZINE ONLINE: www.villagelifemag.com ALYSSA SMITH: PAGE 16

10: Business: MJS Events – The Wedding Disco Specialists 12: Lifestyle: Employment Law – All Change For 2012

LEE FRENCH: PAGE 24

16: Community Focus: Interview with Alyssa Smith 18: Charity Focus: Hertfordshire Action on Disability 24: Community Focus: Interview with Kimpton Football Manager 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.

January 2012

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

3

LOCAL NEWS

Men with hairy upper lips raise money for charity…

Adam Fernandes, Business Development Manager at WKH Chartered Accountants, once again registered for Movember and embraced the hair of the wild. Upon registering he pledged to cultivate a genuine 100% face grown moustache for 30 days to raise awareness and funds for men’s health, specifically prostate and testicular cancer.

Adam told us “The reason I started this Movember team, is because I have had a couple of friends and family that have suffered from cancer in the past, luckily most have won the battle against it, but some haven’t.

It is something very simple, but very effective that raises awareness, and we have had some laughs on the way. I have been surprised with the support that we have received and hopefully we can grow this year on year (no pun intended!).

The moustache has had its itchy moments and I have found myself stroking it from time to time. People have definitely looked at me and thought – is that for real? – I haven’t been able to go into any meeting, without having to declare why I have had such a thing on my face!

There has been a lot of support from the start, which shows people realise the importance of what we are doing. This is a great cause, great team effort and I’m sure it has put a smile on everyone’s face.”

Adam and 16 of his team members, 6 of them from WKH Chartered Accountants, have cultivated moustaches over the month of November and have raised £2,300 so far. If you want to make

a donation simply log on: http:// mobro.co/adambfernandes 4

Zumba for Weight Loss

Zumba instructor Ellena Brooks and her followers have celebrated their first anniversary together with a birthday bash.

To mark the first year of Zumba With Elle, they enjoyed a tea party and birthday cake after one of her regular classes at Welwyn Civic Centre.

For the occasion, Ellena, who lives in Woolmer Green, invited her clients to share with her how much weight loss they had achieved since attending her weekly classes in Welwyn, Lemsford and Oaklands.

They were amazed to discover that 18 of the Zumba enthusiasts had shed no less than 27.5 stones between them since this time last year. That’s equal to almost 175 one-kilo bags of sugar, or an average of over 21 pounds per dancer.

“I’m unbelievably proud of all my customers – they’re truly inspirational,” said Ellena. “Because they love the classes, the music and the tempo so many of them are shedding pounds easily.” In fact, one of Elle’s customers has lost nearly three stone coming to her classes once or twice a week since January and following a healthy eating plan. Lisa, from Welwyn Garden City, said: “Zumba with Elle is the best thing that has happened to me – exercise that makes me smile!”

But it’s not just about losing weight. “Lots of people come simply to enjoy themselves” says Ellena.

Ellena runs classes on Mondays or Tuesdays at Welwyn Village Civic Centre (main hall opposite the library) starting 8pm; Wednesdays at Oaklands Primary School, 7.30pm; or Thursdays at St John’s Primary School, Lemsford, at 8pm.

With one-hour classes costing just £5 and loyalty and discount schemes also available, so many people find Zumba more fun than the gym and more cost-effective than health club membership fees.

Contact Elle on 07949 927231 or at zumbawithelle@gmail.com.

Follow her and the Zumba crew on Facebook, at ZUMBA with Elle.

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

January 2012

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WELLBEING

Resolutions & self change now for 2012

I

have always written these articles focusing on the odd symptoms I come across but never really mentioned in one place all the issues I help hundreds of people with every year. Today I am doing that. It may be a bit of a list but I am sure you may have, or would know of at least someone with one of these and may be able to point them in my direction for help.

For instance worrying would be one of the major symptoms I treat.

Worry about the family, work, health, you name it, and negative thoughts, too.

Then there is stress, the next step up. Stress comes from continual pressure; work pressure in the form of deadlines, short staffing, and office politics. Stress hangs around assignments, exams, dissertations.

Stress results from relationship difficulties, moodiness, kids, family dynamics. If you have stress come now and get some really good coping mechanisms to help.

Stress can lead on to anxiety. Acute anxiety may include panic attacks 6

or, at the other end of the spectrum, depression, where the body finds it too hard to cope. Longer-term illnesses may develop. Medication certainly helps but in order for full recovery the underlying issues need to be addressed. I help with these.

Mothers bring their children for help with bedwetting, schoolwork and bullying issues; some are unable to sleep because they have seen scarey movies or computer games.Then there’s thumb sucking, hair pulling and nail biting.We make it fun.

Parents bring their teenagers for confidence issues, motivation, learning and studying, not to mention family clashes and moods.Teens love this work and respond so well.

Stopping the smoking, overeating and drinking will save you money and let you take back control. Losing weight will give you more energy to cope better.

Relaxation is important during conception, pregnancy and for having wonderful births. It also helps your

body heal so is great for pain, IBS and illness.

Sleeping well is imperative for a focused day.This is the key to my work, when your body is relaxed success is possible. Success is good!

Self confidence is another big one.

Then there’s the sports fun we do together.Winter is the time to lay back and improve your sports mindset.

My work helps you to clear the fog out and see things better. I find out just how you want to change and together we use either the relaxing model of hypnotherapy, or the acupressure technique of emotional freedom (EFT) to achieve this.

Together we get your mindset in a better place and build your confidence and success. It is fun, it is special, people love it.

Honestly, if you have issues, don’t put up with them. Ring for a chat, do deal with them now.The results will show in a happier you and the ability to handle 2012 a great deal better.You deserve it.

Much more detail on the website www.marilyntuck.co.uk Knebworth, phone 07962 811907

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

January 2012

BUSINESS

HMRC Target campaigns for 2012 Adam Fernandes, Business Development Manager and Portfolio Holder from WKH Chartered Accountants talks about the next few targeted campaigns HMRC is planning…

N

obody likes paying tax – but it’s just part of being a proper member of a civilised society.What many people dislike, though, is that we all have to pay more tax because some people don’t pay what they should.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is tasked with dealing with those people who have not, so far, paid the right amount of tax.Those people are sometimes offered the chance to come forward voluntarily meaning you can get an easier ride from HMRC and it will normally cost you less than if they come to you.

HMRC’s current campaign is to allow tutors and coaches, who have not declared all of that income, to register by the deadline of 6 January 2012 and submit full details by 31 March 2012.

Other campaigns coming in early 2012 include eBay traders and electricians.

The eBay trader initiative is the one which could affect quite a few people. For years HMRC has felt that they were losing out on tax from people effectively running a business though eBay and other E marketplaces. For many months now HMRC has had a computer system (they refer to as a ‘robot’) gathering intelligence about dealing going on in eBay and looking for people doing a lot of trades. Of course they will be concentrating on those selling a lot, but someone buying a lot could also be of interest if HMRC thought they were going on to sell those same things.

HMRC have not even firmed up exactly how they will do this, and the people targeted may or may not be offered a chance to come clean with a reduced level of tax investigation or penalties.The detail should be firmed up early in 2012.

Which eBayers should get nervous?

Well if you use eBay to sell things for more than you paid for them, or to buy things which you plan to sell on, then you should sit up and take note. Just because you are doing it on a small scale, or you pay tax at another job, does not mean HMRC will leave you alone.They may well class your activities as ‘trading’ and want you to declare to them your income and expenses relating to it. (Car boot sales – regular sellers at them could face the same questions.)

The Electricians Tax Safe Plan is simply HMRC’s version of the one recently offered to plumbers. From February 2012 electricians who have something wrong with their tax affairs can register for the scheme making it easier to come clean.They might have under-declared their income (the most common offence) or they could have claimed more expenses than they were entitled to claim.

The offence might even be unrelated to their electrician activities – for example letting out a house.

For the purpose of this initiative HMRC is considering an electrician as anyone who installs, maintains and tests electrical systems, equipment and appliances under stringent safety regulations.

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.

8

WKH QPH 0411.indd 1

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

17/03/2011 13:21 January 2012

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LOCAL BUSINESS FOCUS

MJS Events

The Wedding Disco Specialists

M

JS Events is a Mobile Disco service specialising in wedding receptions.The business is run by Jose Saavedra, a corporate professional, who has been a DJ for nearly 20 years playing at clubs and venues in the UK and overseas. Jose believes that most people’s perception of a DJ is someone who is unreliable, who will just turn up unprepared, play what they like and talk nonsense on the microphone just to earn a few extra pounds at the weekend.

Couples need more than this.They want their wedding day to run smoothly with all the guests enjoying themselves. After all it is probably the most important day in their lives and everyone should have fun.

Jose is professional and presentable, he has the creative skills of a club DJ, but with public speaking experience and people skills gained from the corporate world. He only focuses on weddings and as a result wedding guests party to his music at local venues such as Tewinbury Farm, Fanhams Hall, Hanbury Manor, Hertford Castle, Priory Barn and also at exclusive venues in London (including The Dorchester, Fulham Palace, Stationer’s Hall and many others). Jose’s mixing skills and ability to read the crowd ensures that the dance floor is always busy!

All couples receive a pre-event meeting to discuss the entire day as well as the music.The details include; the requirements for the first and second dance, the background music throughout, how the couple will leave the venue and even the value Jose can add as a capable MC.This planning makes the day run smoothly and is an opportunity for Jose to share the expertise he has gained from hundreds of wedding receptions. He takes the time to understand the couple’s requirements and this is underpinned by a contract, which provides peace of mind that he will be there, fully prepared.

Jose’s music collection covers 16,000 songs from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s, Motown, Soul, Funk, Disco, Rock, Punk, Ska right through to House, R&B, Dance and today’s chart music. He is always happy to take requests on the evening.

If you book MJS events you can expect a state of the art sound and lighting setup which never fails to impress.

It will create the perfect atmosphere for guests to dance the night away.

10

In addition to a great evening disco, MJS Events also offers an all day package where Jose provides background music as guests arrive at the venue, through the meal and also during the ceremony, if required. He can also act as MC introducing the couple as they arrive, making announcements throughout the day, introducing the speeches and ensuring that the day moves along smoothly.

“Your professional and personable approach put us straight at ease and gave us one less thing to worry about and you pitched your DJ skills to suit our event perfectly.” “ Jose did a great job at keeping everyone dancing until the end of the night. I highly recommend MJS events for anyone needing a wedding DJ. Jose listened carefully to our requirements and delivered on all of our requests.”

“Hi Jose, we just wanted to say a big thank you for being MC and DJ on our wedding day.We had a fantastic day, and loved the selection of music you played!”

For more information, you can contact Jose on 07734 387 478 or visit www.mjsevents.com

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

January 2012

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

CODICOTE SPICE

21/10/2010 10:46

79 High Street, Codicote, SG4 8XE 01438 820 166 / 821 613

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

As Reviewed byVillage Life in Dec 2011

Open Sun - Thurs 6.00pm to 11.30pm, Fri - Sat 6.00pm to 12.00am Takeaway service with free delivery within 3 miles of Codicote.

January 2012

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

11

BUSINESS

Employment Law – All Change For 2012 As part of its drive to cut down on the number of Employment Tribunal claims, the Government has proposed a number of changes.

This month we hear from local employment solicitor Mike Powell of Scott-Moncrieff & Associates LLP who considers the possible effects.

Compromise Agreements: These are used to settle employment disputes. The Government intends to simplify them and rename them as “settlement agreements”.

Protected Conversations: These are designed to allow employers and employees to have “full and frank discussions”. In my view there is no reason why such discussions cannot take place now, provided care is taken over what is said. My concern is that employers and employees will say things in these “conversations” which they may later regret and then find that the conversation was not as “protected” as they thought.

Early ACAS Conciliation: The Government intends to offer the services of ACAS to resolve a dispute before bringing a Tribunal claim. In theory this may be a useful idea, but ACAS will need a lot of extra resources to provide an effective service, which the Government is not providing. As a solicitor, my experience of ACAS has varied from excellent to poor.

Length of Service for Unfair Dismissal Claims: An employee usually has to have a minimum of 1 year’s service before bringing a claim for unfair dismissal.

The Government intends to increase this to 2 years. This may reduce the number of claims, but there

will still be many unfair dismissal claims that don’t need minimum service, e.g. health and safety, discrimination, whistleblowing.

Financial Penalties for Employers: Where employers have breached employment law, the Tribunal will have the discretion to impose financial penalties on an employer of up to £5000.

Fees for bringing a Tribunal Claim: The Government intends to charge fees for using the Tribunal system. How much this will reduce claims is open to question as more people have legal expenses insurance which may cover these fees. These won’t be in force until 2013 at the earliest.

Mediation: The Government intends to promote mediation to settle workplace disputes. In my experience, many disputes need never have got as far as a Tribunal claim. There is a lot to be said for using the services of a mediator to resolve a workplace problem through discussion before it gets to the point of no return.

Workplace disputes can often be resolved if they are treated quickly following the correct procedures. It is essential for an employer to ensure that its staff have clear contracts of employment and internal procedures to help resolve disputes.

Whether you are an employer or an employee looking for advice, Mike offers a free initial consultation. For further information, contact Mike on 01462 418629 or visit www.hertsemploymentlaw.co.uk

Scott-Moncrieff & Associates LLP ● ● ● ●

Contracts & Handbooks Compromise Agreements Redundancy & Restructuring General Employment Law Advice

Call Mike Powell for a free consultation: 01462 418629 12

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

January 2012

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

January 2012

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

13

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

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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 January 2012 Construction 0811 HP.indd Village

21/07/2011 14:0515

VILLAGE LIFE

Interview with local jewellery designer : Alyssa Smith

S

he may only be 25 years old but Hitchin based designer Alyssa Smith is taking the jewellery and business world by storm. Since launching her website www.alyssasmith.co.uk in April 2011, she has built up a huge celebrity following that includes Bridesmaids and The IT Crowd star Chris O’Dowd, celebrity Journalist Dawn Porter and The Gadget Show Presenter Suzi Perry, to name a few. Alyssa is also a Resident Entrepreneur at the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy, where she mentors young people who want to start their own business.

Her dedication to her business was recognised recently when she was nominated for a prestigious Women 16

Of The Future award. I found out where she gets her inspiration and what we can expect from her next.

Have you always wanted to be a jewellery designer?

Ever since I was about four or five I have wanted to be a jewellery designer. My parents also made jewellery as a hobby so they encouraged me to be creative. As a small child I would make jewellery on my bedroom floor, selling it to family and friends and giving it away as Christmas presents before going on to study Metalwork at college, and later on, Jewellery Design and Marketing at the University of Hertfordshire.

During my college years I had a light bulb moment and realised that I could

actually turn this passion and hobby into my livelihood. Countless people would comment on my jewellery designs and ask me to make bespoke pieces for them for special occasions.

I was making bridal jewellery at the age of 15, and when I graduated from University in 2008 I started up Alyssa Smith Jewellery, my bespoke, handmade jewellery business.

Where do you get your inspiration?

Most designers are inspired by themes such as nature and organic forms, but for me, inspiration works a little differently. I am inspired by trends like ‘social media’. In fact, I have a whole jewellery collection based around social media. It is called

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

January 2012

‘social butterfly’ and consists of necklaces saying ‘Tweet Me’, ‘Follow Me’ and the well-known hash tag symbol ‘#’ which has become used a bit obsessively on Twitter recently, *laughs*. This collection is a fabulous seller and I actually had help from celebrity journalist ‘Dawn Porter’ to come up with these designs. I always try to listen to what my customers want as opposed to what ‘I’ want. So I would probably say that my customers inspire me most for my new collections, as well as for my bespoke items, as they are designed for each individual client.

How would you describe your jewellery to someone who has never seen it before?

That’s a rough question. I would describe my jewellery as being fun, creative, quirky and very shiny. It’s very contemporary in style, but is also made using very traditional silversmith techniques, which I think is a great combination.

What’s your favourite piece at the moment?

I really love the Tweetie Bird necklaces. I launched ‘The Original Tweetie’ last year and due to its popularity, I have now launched new Tweetie Bird necklaces which are a variation of the original one.

Some are smaller with a hammered, glittering effect and are combined with gemstones for the eyes, and another Tweetie is made in 9 carat gold. My favourite Tweetie design has to be the Gold Tweetie or the new Glitterati Tweetie. This is a very big Tweetie pendant and is encrusted with lots of ‘diamond effect’ gemstones. It’s a real statement piece.

What kind of girl/ woman wears Alyssa Smith Jewellery?

I think that anyone who wears my creations has a fun and playful side, which reflects the jewellery creations well. I was surprised as originally I thought my pieces would only be for a select target market, but it turns out that there is a big target market for my jewellery. I think the bespoke element of the business helps with this though, as it allows anyone to have something designed and created to their specific requirements and tastes, so not alienating anyone.

Do you have a men’s collection?

I don’t have a ‘ready to wear’ men’s collection but the bespoke service is popular with men and women looking to buy something special for men. Cufflinks are particularly popular.

Are there any other jewellery designers you admire?

Yes there are lots of designers I admire. I think that anyone trying to live their dreams is to be admired.

You have a great celebrity following. If you could have any celebrity in the world wear your jewellery who would it be?

Oh gosh! I don’t know. I like to think that the celebrities who already wear my jewellery reflect my brand well.They are proud to be seen in my jewellery and I am proud for them to wear it, which works really well.There are lots of lovely people who I would like to see wearing my jewellery in the future though, I can’t really choose one.

What can we expect from you next?

Well, lots more gorgeous designs I would hope. I am working hard to grow a bigger and better company over the next few years. I am still in my first year of full-time trading, so it’s still very early days, but you can expect great things.

Written by Natalie Roberts.

Natalie can be contacted on 07758 864874 or at Natalieroberts2@live.co.uk

VILLAGE LIFE

Hertfordshire Action on Disability (HAD) Delivering a Helping Hand to Older and Disabled People

H

AD is a Charity and Social Enterprise based in Welwyn Garden City which has been helping disabled and older people throughout Hertfordshire for more than fifty years. They believe that disabled people have an absolute right to an independent life, with freedom to pursue whatever lifestyle they have chosen.

All Services provided by HAD are designed to maintain dignity and enhance independence and are based on discussions with disabled people on what helps them maintain a normal life.

There is An Equipment Assessment Centre offering impartial assessments on almost any product from cutlery to chairs, beds to bath lifts; ensuring no one buys products that are unsuitable, unhelpful and most importantly unsafe to use. 12,000 people visited the Equipment Centre last year!

HAD understand that getting to them may not always be an option so they have recently launched a brand new website www.hadnet.org.uk with an online shop to make things easier. Do take a look and make use of the comprehensive buying guides and advice. HAD is now selling disability products from the south coast to the Shetland Islands!

A 24 hour Accessible Transport Service provides one-off and regular journeys for work, doctor’s appointments, shopping and leisure trips.They will quote for any journey, any where at any time. Just one call ensures people are 18

not alone and isolated. Last year this service made 11,500 passenger journeys! There is also a Self-Drive hire service offering the use of a vehicle for longer periods.

For most people being able to drive is a given, but for many older and disabled people it means personal freedom and independence. HAD has a Driving Centre in Welwyn Garden City, providing driving assessments, tuition, transfer assessments as well as a vehicle appraisals and conversion advice. So if you have never been on the road or perhaps wish to return to driving, their friendly team of assessors will be able to help. Earlier this year a Driving Centre customer Craig Hazle, from Inverness in Scotland, made a 1,000 mile round trip for a driving assessment at the Welwyn Garden City HQ! If you find yourself not knowing where to turn for help and advice you can contact HAD, if their Information and Advice service doesn’t have the answer, they will help you find it. Last year they answered 30,000 telephone queries!

There has been much publicity about the Government cuts and how they are affecting us all. HAD has received a 100% funding cut over the next 2 years. But fear not they are working hard to secure their future so that they can continue to help people.There is also another large group of people we must not forget‌.the family, friends and carers.These individuals sometimes dedicate their whole lives to caring for others. So, if you are this person they are also there to help you too.

If you wish to find out more or support HAD in their work, please contact them on 01707 324581, email info@hadnet.org.uk, write to The Woodside Centre, The Commons, Welwyn Garden City Herts, AL7 4DD. Or better still go and visit them and have a cup of tea!

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

January 2012

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

January 2012

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

19

VILLAGE LIFE

Save your family

£1000’s

YoU WoRkEd HARd foR IT. doN’T lET THE STATE TAkE IT! Put Your Loved Ones First

Protect Your Family & Business

Have an up to date Will that ensures your loved ones get everything and the state gets nothing.

Why risk the impact of an accident, illness or death?

Protect Your Home 100% Why risk your home being one of over 40,000 sold each year to meet care costs?

Protect Your Assets Why incur 40% Inheritance Tax unnecessarily?

Protect Yourself from the Courts A Will & Powers of Attorney record who you want to act for you. Without them a Court decides!

Best Value Estate Planning, using solicitors and professional will writers

Wills from £80 • Probate from 1%

DAYTIM EvEnInE or g

HOME VISIT

Call STEVEN WHITE on: (Affiliate of The Society of Will Writers)

0800 612 6371 07954 162 522 B E S T

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P R I C E

G U A R A N T E E

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

January 2012

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 Direct HP 0111 2.indd Village 1 January 2012 Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950

20/01/2011 10:0921

VILLAGE LIFE

We would like toWish all our Customers a Happy & Properous New Year Our opening times have now returned to our usual winter hours of

Tuesday to Sunday 10am till 4pm

New Year Special

Any hot drink plus two courses for £6

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

January 2012

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

ZUMBA 2012 Poster [A6].pdf

Half Price Cut and Finish For New Clients

extra help 20:01:29 a helping hand

29/12/2011

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Specializing in colouring, cutting and styling full trained salon professional service at affordable prices.

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“Your hair’s happiness is just a phone call away!”

07796 565 773 Valid only with this advert and not in conjunction with any other offer (limited period only)

January 2012

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

23

VILLAGE LIFE

Interview with White Horse Kimpton Football Club Manager - Lee French “Football is my drug. Half my life is occupied by it, and it always has been. It’s my fiercest passion; I just wouldn’t be the same without it.”

A

fter captaining a previous Kimpton team, reaching cup finals with others and coaching at higher levels, Lee French decided to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a football manager. Now 27 years old and managing White Horse Kimpton Football Club, he’s thrilled to be kick-starting his ideal career at last. “I’ve always had a passion for the game and I want to pass that on to others, see them improve under my guidance. These lower league teams are a talent pool, and Kimpton’s no exception. There are a lot of young people in this town; I want to give them a local place to come and enjoy their football. Playing in the Hitchin Sunday League, this really is sport at its absolute grassroots. ‘This is where I want to be right now. A lower league team like this is my best chance of getting the experience I need.

It’s a seven-day a week job with me running the whole show, and I love it. I’ve always wanted to built a team from scratch, and finally my chance has come!

This is no exaggeration; the team has only been running for about five months at time of writing.With the previous Sunday club ending three years ago, Lee approached 24

Janet Johnson – landlady of the local White Horse pub – and asked for funding to start a new squad.Taking players from the Monday 6-a-side crew alongside anyone else who fancied coming along, he’s moulded a team out of virtually nothing in a very short space of time.

“It’s my job to cement these guys together over the rest of the season.They’re a good bunch of lads, and we’ll always have a laugh with each other at training. Hey, who would do the job if it wasn’t enjoyable?’

Indeed. But how can that balance be maintained between manager and mate? “Off the field I’m their friend; on it, their manager.You need clear boundaries, otherwise people will overstep the mark.They’re difficult to coach, footballers; they think they know it all before they’ve even started. Ultimately I see myself as a mentor, especially to the younger lads. As a teenager, it’s just the worst feeling when you lose a game. My job is to remind them it’s not the end of the world, to motivate them to inspire themselves to keep trying.Their ambition is what matters most; if a team has eleven ambitious players, it doesn’t even need a manager.You don’t need world-beaters to be a good club, just drive and passion. I want to be that boss they want to go the extra mile to please.”

Lee’s own future itself looks bright. “I’m not stopping here. I’ll stay with the squad for three, maybe four years, make sure they’re established properly. But once I feel I’m ready for Saturday football, I’ll move on. My attitude is always to better myself; I’d consider League football a success, but my drive will always push me to seek higher.

Yet all this passion is worthless without experience, and I’m happy to stay here until I feel I have enough!”

Written by Aiden Phillips. Aiden can be contacted on 07756 409 305 or at phillips.aidanphillips@yahoo.co.uk.

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

January 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

FRINGELINE UNISEX HAIR & BEAUTY SALON

Wednesday Special Offers All beauty treatments after 6pm 25% off Foil Highlights 10% off

Other Offers Semi Permanent eye lash extensions at £55.00 Fish Pedicure Offer – Two for the price of one 46a High Street, Kimpton, Herts SG4 8RN 01438 833 468 www.fringeline.co.uk

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 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 January 2012

‘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 p 25

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

VILLAGE LIFE

FENCING

Are you a local

Personal Trainer

looking for more business?

SN MAINTENANCE

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

If you would like to come on board and advertise your company to 15,000 readers each month, we will offer low advertising rates & some free editorial.

All Your Fencing Needs Supplied & Fitted Free Estimates Council Approved Hedge Cutting Garden Maintenance Friendly & Reliable Service

Contact Melanie on

Call Simon on 07971 860 135 / 01707 326 366

Village Village Tree Services Tree Services

N Fencing 0311.indd 1

Andrew Sinclair

16/02/2011 09:18

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

ELECTRICIAN

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  ●



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

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01483 216 950

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

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

January 2012

VILLAGE LIFE

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

reformer pilates

One-to-one sessions in Breachwood Green

Strengthen and tone 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

Maria Hancock

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

07903 009199

bodyprofilepilates@yahoo.com www.bodyprofilepilates.com Body Control Pilates is a registered trademark used under license

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

Rabley Tree Care Rabley Tree Care Rabley

Stagg Property Services QP 0211.indd 1

19/01/2011 12:02

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

January 2012

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

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VILLAGE LIFE

What’s on in JANUARY Monday 9th January Baby Signing Classes 11am - 12am at Kimpton Memorial Hall

Take a Break…

CROSSWORD

Baby signing classes are starting in KIMPTON on 9th January 2012 at 11am – book now or register your interest by visiting http://tinyurl.com/bvlpasa I Love my little Jasper’s ability to communicate with me...watch both links to see how he can tell me he wants ‘more’. You can help your little ones communicate before they can talk!

Saturday 21st Jan 1pm - 3pm ABC Life Support – First Aid Course for Parents Fleetville Community Centre, Royal Road, Fleetville, St Albans, 72 AL1 4QL Contact: Danielle Bruce on 01438 726666 or email: Info@abclifesupport. co.uk, Website: www.abclifesupport.co.uk ABC Life Support provides First Aid Courses primarily for Parents, Carers and People in the Childcare profession. Cost; £20 per student with accompanying first aid booklet and Certification.

Tuesday 24 January 7.30pm Brendan Cole – LIVE AND UNJUDGED at the Alban Arena St Albans Now into its fourth Season, not just for the Ballroom and Latin enthusiasts, this up close and personal dance spectacular promises more than a just a few cha cha cha’s! Brendan’s mischievous personality will host you throughout, while onstage his 14 piece band will captivate you with their song renditions. Don’t miss your chance to see some of the Ballroom magic created on Strictly first hand by one of its most charismatic choreographers and performers. He’ll have you dancing in your seat and bursting with the excitement of dance that is gripping the nation!

Box Office: 01727 844 488

Wednesday 25th Jan at 10.30am Stevenage Netmums Meetup

ACROSS 1. between the seats in a theatre (5) 4. young fowl (5) 7. may be exposed at low tide (8) 8. in sheep’s clothing? (4) 9. these are left at the end (8) 11. ready for harvesting (4) 12. shun (6) 14. items of ownership (6) 16. deep natural hollow (4) 18. liver map (anag) (8) 20. glimpse (4) 21. manner of speaking (8) 23. on strike in 1984? (5) 24. swim (5)

DOWN 1. flowering shrub of the rhododendron genus (7) 2. portable, enclosed chair mounted on poles (5) 3. 7th letter of the Greek alphabet (3) 4. someone from Karachi (9) 5. spud row (anag) (7) 6. spring flower (5) 10. read on the train? (9) 13. joyful, carefree (7) 15. instalment (7) 17. racecourse (5) 19. praise (5) 22. tease (3)

SUDOKU

At Aardvark’s Little A’s – this is a gorgeous under 5’s soft play cafe in the heart of Stevenage Old Town. Little A’s do lovely food and drinks and are well set up to accommodate us. They have very kindly offered us the sole use of the venue for our second meet up. For more information go to www.netmums.com/northherts.

Saturday 28th Jan 7.45pm “Blake” at the Gordon Craig Theatre in Stevenage Superstar vocalists ‘BLAKE’ (as seen on BBC Breakfast, Daybreak, Sir David Frost, Loose Women, Sky News & NBC America’s ‘Today Show’) return with their spectacular 2012 show. The evening features the most uplifting and romantic love songs of all time, plus exclusive new material from their hugely anticipated 4th album, all mixed together with their famously humorous observations on life, love and music. Prepare to laugh, cry and be amazed by BLAKE. Box Office – 01438 894540 GET YOUR EVENT LISTED FOR FREE HERE, EMAIL: mail@villagelifemag.com or call us on 01438 216 950 28

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

January 2012

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.

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

29

SHOWCASE

Peony Florist ADVERTISE Specialising in wedding �lowers, beautiful, stylish �lowers tailored to suit the bride, her dress and the wedding venue. For a free consultation call Lotty.

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COMPUTER PROBLEMS

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tel: 01438 820 820

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

01438 821418

• FREE prescription collection from any surgery • FREE home delivery of medication & shopping • Passport photos & digital processing THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT PHARMACY

Leaflet Delivery Available Would you like your leaflet to be delivered with Village Life to Welwyn, Knebworth, Codicote, Kimpton, Whitwell, Preston, Graveley, Gosmore, St Ippollets, Little Wymondley, Great Wymondley & Breachwood Green?

Cost £40 per 1,000 or £175 for 5,000

Call Melanie on 01438 216 950 30

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

January 2012

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)...

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