My Friend magazine issue 54

No. 54 - Jan/Feb 2018

My Friend Huntingdon’s local magazine

magpas WIN

a Guinot Facial see pa g e 1 8

Read the story of baby Finlay's rescue, page 11 offering you £50 OFF* with My Friend magazine - see their advert inside

Delivered FREE to 15,000 homes in Huntingdonshire What's On List • Features • Competitions • Directory • Puzzles • Tradespeople • Events

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on theer cov

My Friend Huntingdon’s local magazine

Hello friends, here we are in 2018! I hope you and everyone you know had a lovely Christmas and enjoyed a great party on New Year's Eve. This year, I'm sure, is going to be a very good one. My Friend magazine is starting it off with real excitement - our fantastic cover photograph and story, something I've been working on for a while with the lovely Hannah Mottershead from MAGPAS. Also thank you to Finlay and his mum, Laura Novak for sharing their story with us. See page 11.

I've been a supporter and fund-raiser for MAGPAS for a couple of years now.

It blew my mind when I found out that the government doesn't fund air ambulances at all. The charity effort is huge to keep these going. They have My Friend magazine's absolute support.

In this issue we've also got the winner of Zumba Becky's competition, and a new competition for you to win a lovely beauty treatment with Bliss Beauty Salon in Huntingdon. Good luck!

There is info about community support from the Alzheimer Society on page 6. What's On's, as always, are on page 8. Updates for those who have been concerned about the apparent lack of progress at Huntingdon's Commemoration Hall, are on page 20.

Happy New Year everyone, ¡Keep it Local!

Jacqueline

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Email: jacqueline@myfriendmagazine.co.uk Mobile telephone: 07799 737979 Website: www.myfriendmagazine.co.uk

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Claire's Fitness & Personal Training Personal Training & Nutrition Guidance

Claire Hembrow Personal Trainer and Sports Massage Therapist

Warboys, Huntingdon 07808 205596

clairehembrow@yahoo.co.uk @clairesfitnessandpersonaltraining www.clairesfitnessandpersonaltraining.co.uk

Become a My Friend magazine deliverer

We are looking for reliable, conscientious deliverers.

The magazine comes out every two months, so delivery is required six times a year. Delivering is enjoyable, it will keep you fit and you can earn some extra cash!

This work would suit fit retired people or at home parents.

Please contact us at jacqueline@myfriendmagazine.co.uk

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The publisher has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information within this magazine. The publisher does not assume and hereby disclaims any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from accident, negligence, or any other cause.

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AGS Decorating and Refurbishment “Aaron and his team have done a superb job Services caters for all kinds of decorating on my lounge renovation. Very happy with the

needs, including interior, exterior, domestic and commercial services. Founded by Aaron Smith, the company has been successfully running for just under two years.

We have recently welcomed three new members to our expanding team of experienced decorators. Aaron himself has over 12 years of experience within the industry and collectively his team has well over 30 years experience.

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Health Could you give up a few hours a week to help someone with dementia in your local community?

Nearly 2,000 people with dementia are waiting for volunteers across the UK and we currently have a number on the Northamptonshire/Cambridgeshire border. So whether you’re a social butterfly, shopaholic or nature lover, we need In 2013, the report ‘Dementia 2013: The hidden volunteers like you. You can volunteer on a day voice of loneliness’ showed that more than a third (39%) of people with dementia said they felt lonely. Meanwhile, 70% of people with dementia had stopped doing things they used to due to a lack of confidence and nearly 50% of people with dementia only went out to do things in their local area once a week or less. This study was the catalyst for the development of Side by Side – a service which would combat loneliness and empower people with dementia to remain active and involved in their communities.

Side by Side pairs a local volunteer to a person with dementia based on similar hobbies, inter- that suits you, either in person or over the phone ests or life experiences. The Side by Side volun- - so it's a flexible way to give your time and really teer then visits either weekly or fortnightly for a make a huge difference to someone's life. few hours to support their person with dementia To register your interest to become a to continue to do the things they love, or even to Side by Side volunteer, or for more try something new. This can include helping out information, please contact Jess Scott at their allotment, joining a local club, going to Jess.Scott@alzheimers.org.uk yoga, visiting a historic building or just going for 01832 736670 a stroll in the park.

Tracking the Rockhoppers Wildlife talk at St Ives Free Church Wednesday 31 January at 7.30pm During Christmas 2011 RSPB Director James Robinson spent a month on sabbatical with Falklands Conservation, assisting in their efforts to conserve the charismatic yet vulnerable southern rockhopper penguin. He explains the significant challenges of working in the South Atlantic and the amazing wildlife that makes a home on the Falklands plus the gruelling journeys of penguins as they are tracked across the ocean.

Everyone is welcome, non-members pay £4. Becoming a member of the local group offers excellent value for regular attendees. The talk includes an intermission with tea, coffee and refreshments.

Any questions?

Call Martyn on 01487 710456

The Free Church is at Market Hill St Ives PE27 5AL (the market place) It’s on the first floor, accessible by lift as well as stairs.

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Window Cleaning

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What's On HUNTINGDON Local History Book Sale Saturday 20 January - Saturday 3 February at 10.00 am. Huntingdon Library, Prince's Street PE29 3PA. A rare opportunity to purchase exlibrary local studies books. More information: Tel: 0345 045 5225.

Performers at the Pepys Samuel Pepys Pub, 146 High Street PE29 3TF Thursday 25 January, 8 - 11 pm Live music from local and touring songwriters, hosted by Gavin Chappell-Bates. T: 01480 459708 E: diaryrooms@btconnect.com Kisstory - Charity Night for Clic Sargent Childrens Charity The Lord Protector, Mayfield Road, Hartford PE29 1NH. Saturday 27 January at 7.00 pm Whole venue closed for event, Ticket Only.

Check out Facebook for more info or call us: 01480 454720.

The Hinchingbrooke Bösendorfer Piano Concerts Friday 26 January 2018: Matthew Trusl er, violin; Ashley Wass, piano.

Matthew has earned a reputation as one of Britain’s leading violinists, receiving critic al acclaim for his diverse recordings, performances and at the BBC ‘Proms.’ Ashley's solo recital here four years ago revealed an exceptionally fine, sensitive and visionary musical mind. The programm e will include Beethoven, ‘Spring’ Sonata; Franck, Sonata; music

by Vaughan Williams and Prokofiev.

Friday 23 February 2018: Anna Tsyb uleva, piano.

We are privileged to be able to host Anna, the 2015 winner of the Leeds International Piano Competition.

Her recital here in early 2017, warm ly received by a capacity audience, was a revelation.

Her programme will include Chopin, Polonaise in F sharp minor, Ballade

big 10 (Ska) Saturday 27 January at The Comrades Club 9.00 pm - 11.30 pm. Entry: £8.50 Huntingdon Race Track Brampton, PE28 4NL 12th January - Friday afternoon racing

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26th January - Friday afternoon racing 8th February - Thursday afternoon racing 22nd February - Thursday afternoon racing 4th March - Sunday afternoon racing - Family Fun Day. Booking office: 0844 579 3007.

General enquiries: 01480 453373 Map Making at the Poles: EngAGE in the Afternoon Huntingdon Library, Prince's Street PE29 3PA Thursday 1 February at 1.30 pm Staff from the Scott Polar Research Institute discuss how maps of the poles have been made.

See how explorers such as Ernest Shackleton created their maps and how modern scientists map the ever changing Polar Regions today.

Free (donations welcomed) booking required.

Please speak to library staff or call 0345 045 5225 for a ticket.

The Life and Times of Madam Geneva: EngAGE in the Afternoon Huntingdon Library, Prince's Street PE29 3PA no 1 in G minor, Nocturnes, Mazurkas; Tchaikovsky, ‘The Seasons.’

Friday 23 March 2018: ‘Schubertiade.’

A Celebration of the Music of Schubert.

Stephan and Natasha Loges, baritone and pian o; Vivian Choi, solo piano.

Stephan, an international prizewinn er, has sung in oratorio and opera at major venues world wide. Here he is joined by his wife Natasha, a highl y successful and accomplished musician, in a selection of Schubert’s Lieder. Vivian, whose lucid and beau tifully judged playing won first prize in the Washingto n International Piano Competition will contribute to the programme with piano works by Schubert.

Tickets: adults: £15 - (all 5 concerts: £60), (groups of 20+: £10 each), pupils and students under 21: £5. Available from the Box Office: 0148 0 375678 (Monday to Friday 9.00 to 15.00)

www.ticketsource.co.uk/hinchingbr ookepac

Thursday 1 March - 1.30 pm. Annie James explores the 18th century "Gin Craze" and the government’s attempts to suppress it's influence on society. Free (donations welcomed) booking required. Please speak to library staff or call 0345 045 5225 for a ticket.

Please contact the organisers to confirm. My Friend magazine cannot guarantee ‘What's on’ information is correct at time of going to press.

What's On STORY - Creative Writing Workshop Saturday 3 March, Huntingdon Library, Prince's Street PE29 3PA 10.30am – 1.30pm Whether its crime you want to write or romance, story is essential. We will explore what can help you to write a tale that the rest of us want to read. Tutors: Jane Menczer and Miranda Doyle, published authors and experienced teachers. Booking essential. £6 per person, payable in advance. Call 0345 045 5225 or speak to library staff.

Isle of Ely Canine Society Dog Show 3 February 2018 at 8.30 am.

Wood Green, The Animals Charity, Kings Bush Farm, London Road PE29 2NH Mixed breed dog show. For more information please contact the organiser on 01775 640171.

Family Dog Workshop Sunday 4 February 2018 from 10.00 – midday.

Wood Green, The Animals Charity, Kings Bush Farm, London Road PE29 2NH. Join us for a free, interactive and informative family dog safety workshop, a must for anyone Huntingdon Race Track Car Boot Sales either living with a dog or looking to live with Brampton E28 4NL. Every Sunday except race a dog in the future. Separate workshops for days. Sellers: from 9.30 am. Cars £8.00. Vans adults and children. Suitable for 5 year olds £10.00 Trailers £3.00. Buyers: entry before 10.30 to 95 year olds! Booking essential as places am £2.00, after 10.30 am £1.00. Children free. limited. To book please call us on 0300 303 9333 extension 1282.

BRAMPTON

Bookkeeping and Taxation - FREE Half-Day Workshop Monday 5 February, 11.30 – 4.30 pm at Holiday Inn, Brampton Racecourse PE28 4NL.

by Nwes - Encouraging Enterprise. Perfect for start-ups and individuals thinking about starting up in business, this free half-day course provides a comprehensive guide to the day to day monitoring of your business, ensuring you maintain full financial control. Book your free place on www.eventbrite.co.uk Any queries, speak to the Nwes team on 0845 6099 991.

The Soul Sisters at The Exhibition, 3-5 London Rd, PE29 2HZ. Saturday 27 January. Live music from around 10pm.

J&J Toy Collectors Fair Sunday 4 February at 10.00 am.

Wood Green, The Animals Charity, Kings Bush Farm, London Road PE29 2NH. Adults £3, Seniors £2.50, First Child £2 250 stalls selling an endless variety of collectables, including Corgi, Lledo, Efe, Matchbox, Hornby, Bachmann, Model Railways, Sci Fi, Star Wars, film and TV, military vehicles, Scalextric, Action Man, Dinky Toys.

For information contact J&J Fairs on 01522 880383 or email jandjfairs@virginmedia.com

City of Cambridge & County Canine Society Dog Show Sunday 28 January at 8.30 am. Wood Green, The Animals Charity, Kings Bush Farm, London Road PE29 2NH. Mixed breed dog show. For more information please contact the organiser on 01775 640171.

Cambridge Living History Fair Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 February at 10.00 am - 4pm. Wood Green, The Animals Charity, Kings Bush Farm, London Road PE29 2NH. Admission £2, no charge for children under 16 when accompanied by an adult. For info visit www.historiaoriginata.co.uk

GODMANCHESTER

Live music information courtesy of www.lemonrock.com Please check with the venue before making a trip to any gig.

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What's On Comedy Club Evening at The Comrades Club, 58 Cambridge Street PE29 2AY. Saturday 24 February, 7.30pm 11pm. Entry: £10

GRAFHAM Bicycle Maintenance Class

by Rutland Cycling, PE28 0BH Tuesday 13 February 6.00 - 8.00 pm.

Learn how to keep your bike in tip-top shape and fix simple mechanicals. Our maintenance classes are friendly, interactive sessions run by our expert workshop team. It is free to register online for this event at www.eventbrite.co.uk, but there is a charge of £5 payable on arrival.

HEMINGFORDS Hemingford Village Market takes place on the second Saturday of the month. Saturday 9 September from 9am -1pm at the Parish Centre, High Street, Hemingford Grey. PE28 9BJ. There will be a variety of stalls selling food, plants and crafts, refreshments available from the Hemingford Garden Room and entry is FREE. Pavillion Pictures Cinema Recent films are screened at Hemingford Pavilion on the second Friday evening of every month and FREE family films on the second Sunday of the month at 2.30pm. Information at www.pavilionpictures.org.

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SAWTRY Pub Quiz at The Graystones, The Green, PE28 5ST Every Wednesday from 9pm.

Contact 01487 831999

ST IVES Beerbelly (Pop / Rock, 3 piece) at Seven Wives, Ramsey Road PE27 5RF, Sunday 28 January, 4pm - 7pm T: 01480 462180 Entry: FREE Machines (Rock Covers, 3 piece) at The Nelson's Head, Sunday 28 January, 3.30 pm - 6.00 pm Entry is free.

St Ives Antiques Fair Sunday 11 February. From 9am – 4.30pm at Burgess Hall (One Leisure Centre) Westwood Road, PE27 6WU Adults £2 (concessions £1.50) Special one-day only fair. On-site catering, wheelchair access and free parking available With around 40 dealers offering affordable quality antiques and vintage pieces including ceramics, glass, silver, china, jewellery, small items of furniture, paperweights, postcards.

Information T: 01480 896866 Email: parkhousepr@aol.com www.stivesantiquesfair.co.uk Anthem - The Ultimate Queen Concert Show Thursday 22 February, Slepe Hall Hotel, Ramsey Road PE27 5RB. Tickets from £20.00 per person. Information contact One Leisure St Ives on 01480 388111.

YELLING Yelling Village Quiz Yelling Social Club, High Street PE19 6SB. Friday 16 February at 7.30 pm - 11.30 pm.

Its £1 per head entry - free nibbles, bar open serving beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks.

Tel: 01480 880451

Please contact the organisers to confirm. My Friend magazine cannot guarantee ‘What's on’ information is correct at time of going to press.

Cover story

Magpas Air Ambulance is a Cambridgeshire based charity that brings essential lifesaving care, by land and air, to patients in life-threatening emergencies in the East of England and beyond. Some of the UK’s expert doctors and paramedics volunteer their own time to work with us.

Magpas Air Ambulance is not a state funded service and relies on generous public donations to continue saving lives.

Since 1971 we’ve treated over 60,000 patients.

The Magpas Air Ambulance medical team receives enhanced training which allows them to offer procedures and treatments at the scene, like general anaesthetic, which are usually only available in hospital. This means that the frontline care the team delivers doesn’t just save lives, it helps seriously ill and injured people return to a good quality of life.

The oldest emergency medical charity in the UK, Magpas Air Ambulance started life as a voluntary service in 1971 when two GP’s, Dr Neville Silverstone MBE and

Laura

Novak

and ba

by Finla

y

Dr Derek Cracknell MBE, took action to help victims of road accidents.

As it was founded by two doctors, the charity has a strong clinical heritage.

Today, we offer pioneering training to doctors and paramedics wishing to specialise in pre-hospital emergency medicine, for which we are renowned in the medical world.

Someone who has experienced the care of Magpas Air Ambulance first-hand, is Huntingdonshire based Laura Novak.

When Laura brought her new born son Finlay home for the first time, at just one day old, all was well. However, suddenly one of the happiest days of her life turned into every new mum’s worst nightmare, as Finlay suffered a blocked windpipe and started choking.

Laura called 999 and within minutes Magpas Air Ambulance were treating Finlay in her bedroom. The expert

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Emergency Services

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medical team used their skills and knowledge to provide Finlay with prehospital emergency care to dislodge the mucus in his windpipe that was causing him to choke.

This year, Magpas Air Ambulance need you. With an increasing number of call outs and with the charity flying further afield, the cost to run the service is growing too.

To help Magpas Air Ambulance continue to provide our service to Cambridgeshire, across the east of England and beyond, you could volunteer with the charity. From attending events, helping in the charity shops or assisting with fundraising admin work in the office; there are so many opportunities for every kind of person.

Once Finlay was breathing again, the Magpas team took him to Hinchingbrooke Hospital in a stable condition. He stayed there for a week, receiving the aftercare he needed, but fortunately there were no lasting effects. Finlay is now a happy and healthy four year old. Laura will always remember the day Finlay stopped breathing and turned blue. She explains, “It will be forever engrained in my mind”.

“Magpas Air Ambulance are amazing and we’d do anything to support their lifesaving work. We got married last year and at our wedding, instead of asking for gifts, we asked everyone to make donations to Magpas - who can only exist thanks to people’s support.”

“It’s so comforting to know that Magpas Air Ambulance are here for us and I know that we live in a safer place because of them.”

If this is something you’d be interested in then please visit our website at: http://www.magpas.org.uk/support-us/ volunteer-for-us to view some of the volunteering options or get in touch by email: fundraising@magpas.org.uk Call 01480 371 060 (option 3) or pop in to HQ in Huntingdon. Thank you.

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Friendly and considerate service guaranteed 5 ROOKERY PLACE, FENSTANTON PE28 9LZ

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Classical Ballet, Modern/Jazz, Street and Tap Dance

Huntingdon

British Theatre Dance Association examinations and medal tests

07525 244183 01480 532715

Roz Clark: 07793 973 380 theatreartz@hotmail.com

www.theatreartz.co.uk Queen Elizabeth Hall, Godmanchester (Mon and Weds) Dance Studios at St Ivo School, High Leys (Saturdays)

www.nickyhawkins.co.uk nickyhawkins@gmail.com

Yelling

Zumba © with Becky's Christmas Competition

WINNER!

is Mr Dave Thompson who has won 5 free Zumba classes at Zumba® with Becky Godmanchester.

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Registered Waste Carrier This company offers a 7 day cooling off period

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GMC

COMPLETE MAINTENANCE Est. for 25 years

With over 25 years experience, we are a local business with a commitment to high standards to all our work, including: • Repairs and complete replacements: Roofing, Flat Roofing, guttering, fascia and chimneys.

• Building alterations: From garage conversions and extensions.

• Brickwork and plastering • Window and door replacements in wood and uPVC. Steven George Tel: 01480 411992 • Mobile: 07904 441927 44 Cambridge Villas, Godmanchester, PE29 2BS Email: gmcbuilders@hotmail.co.uk

Have you thought about your family history?

Wondered who your ancestors were and where they lived?

I offer to research births, deaths and marriages, records from parish registers and census data to tie together your family history.

Call Jackie on 07866 081574 or email: peter.barnard@ntlworld.com

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Directory ANIMAL HEALTH Rollins Animal Health and Equine Products.

St Ives Road, Somersham T: 01487 842282

CHARITY FUNDRAISING MAGPAS Air Ambulance St Mary's Street, Huntingdon E: fundraising@magpas.org.uk T: 01480 371 060)

BEAUTY Bliss Beauty Salon 65 High Street, Huntingdon PE29 3DN. T: 01480 456 223

CHIMNEY SWEEP James Wakeling, T: 01954 211 590 E: jimmy_18@hotmail.co.uk

Four Seasons Beauty 2 Cambridge Street Godmanchester PE29 2AJ T: 01480 414292

CHIROPODY Leonard Kirkby Mobile Chiropodist and Podiatrist T: 10480 451493 M: 07870 983347

CAR BODY REPAIRS Get Smart Express Body Shop 9 Chester Road, Eaton Socon T: 01480 407969 E: infogetsmartexpress.co.uk CAR MAINTENANCE GARAGE Bartlett Automotive Ltd BMW and Mini Specialist 34 St Peter’s Road PE29 7DA T: 01480 459771 www.bartlett-auto.com CARPENTER JM Carpentry Solutions T: 07412 828688 E: jeff.mundy2015@gmail.com CARE HOME Ferrers Hall Care Home Residential care T: 0843 506 9452 www.countrycourtcare.com

CHOIR SINGING Swavesey Community Choir E: swavesey.community.choir@gmail.com CLEANING GBS Cleaning Services www.gbscleaning.co.uk T: 01480 451 461 COMPUTERS Cambridge Computers E: jeremy@cambpc.co.uk T: 07974 217 254 COMPUTER TUITION Jacqueline Barnett Tuition in basic computer skills and Photoshop for photo editing.

T: 07799 737979 ELECTRICAL Frank Plater Electrical No job too small. Free estimates.

T: 01480 432154

CHIMNEY SWEEP & STOVE FITTING James Wakeling • • • •

Hetas registered Seasoned logs supplier Bird guard and cowls fitted Evening and weekend appointments available Contact 01954 211 590 or 07738 660 586 jimmy_18@hotmail.co.uk

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Directory ENTERTAINMENT Musical Theatre Company Made In Dagenham, The Musical T: 01480 223331 W: musicaltheatrecompany.co.uk KD Theatre Productions E: info@kdtheatre.co.uk T: 01353 725026 Burgess Hall, St Ives T: 01480 388 500 E: burgesshall@huntingdonshire.gov.uk FAMILY TREE RESEARCH My Genealogy T: 07866 081574 E: peter.barnard@ntlworld.com FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue service W: www.cambsfire.gov.uk T: 0800 9179994 FITNESS Claire’s Fitness and Personal Training Warboys, Huntingdon E: clairehembrow@yahoo.co.uk T: 07808 205 596 Zumba®with Becky Godmanchester T: 07746 322773 GARDENS RJS Garden Services E: richscarr@btinternet.com T: 01480 417179 M: 07702 377248 GRAPHIC DESIGN Jacqueline Barnett Qualified graphic designer for print.

T: 07799 737979 HOME IMPROVEMENTS Apple Windows info@apple-windows.co.uk T: 01480 457574 G. B. Builders General building repairs T: 01480 437 511 M: 07877 742 420

LOCKMITHS Rapid Response Locksmiths 24hr emergency service, no call out charges.

T: 01480 270 106 MOBILITY Orchard Mobility Centre 5 Rookery Place, Fenstanton T: 01480 465 533 E: info@orchardmobility.com PAINTING & DECORATING AGS Decorating and Refurbishment Services M: 07584 484506 E: agsdecoandrefurb@gmail.com Nicky Hawkins Painter and Decorator, Huntingdon T: 01480 532715 M: 07525 244183 E: nickyhawkins@gmail.com PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL Theatre Artz Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Tap. T: 01487 824 460 www.theatreartz.co.uk PHOTOGRAPH EDITING Photo-editing Services Old photos repair, scanning and gifts E: jacqueline.barnett8@gmail.com PROPERTY MAINTENANCE GMC Complete Maintenance 44 Cambridge Villas, Godmanchester T: 01480 411992 M: 07904 441927 E: gmcbuilders@hotmail.co.uk PUBS AND RESTAURANTS The Lord Protector Mayfield Road, Hartford PE29 1NH T: 01480 454720 ROOFING Can-Do Roofing T: 01487 840000 M: 07921 622 287 E: enquiries@cando-roofing.co.uk

SECURITY Ace Fire and Security Installations 216 Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge

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www.acecambridge.co.uk T: 01223 789 700

TRAVEL Premier Travel in Huntingdon T: 01480 371777 W: premier-travel.co.uk

TREES AND GARDENS Bousfield Tree and Landscape M: 07534 707100 T: 01480 414808 E: danbousfield@hotmail.co.uk

T: 01223 636436 www.cambridgewillsandprobate.co.uk WINDOW CLEANING

Adrian's Window Cleaning Service Also pressure washing / gutter vacuuming M: 07771 559626 T: 01480 433515 E: info@adrianswindowcleaning.co.uk

Four Seasons Tree Services Qualified and professional tree care.

T: 01353 721 665 M: 07771 707 921 WILL WRITING Wills and Estate Planning Richard Woodward T: 01480 290060 www.thewillwriter.biz

Wills and Probate Services

to celebrate the New Year we are offering one lucky reader the chance to win a Guinot Facial!

All you have to do is answer the following question correctly:

3 for 2 on

ALL

treatments

Guinot is our facial brand and OPI is our manicure and pedicure brand... but what is our fake tan brand?

Text your answer to 07783 608017 or send your answer by post to 65 High Street, Huntingdon PE29 3DN. Good Luck !!!

Remember to put your full name and a telephone number for us to contact you.

Competition ends 6th February 2018.

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19

Commemoration Hall

Update on the redevelopment project at the

Commemoration Hall

by James Rowe, Chairperson of the Commemoration Hall Trustees.

Since the Commemoration Hall closed in April this year, the trustees have been working hard behind the scenes to get all of the work done ahead of what we hope will be the biggest structural change to the hall since the early 1960's.

Hopefully you will already be aware that our aim is to raise a minimum of £1 million over the next 12-18 months so that we can significantly change the space inside the hall to create a fit for purpose building for the next generation of users. After a lively AGM, one of our actions was to increase the volume of communication we share with the community in Huntingdon as we progress on this journey. To that end, here's a quick snapshot of what's happened over the last six months, and then the plan for the next 12: Since the hall closed, we've completely cleared the basement, sold the majority of the hall's assets that were in a saleable condition and prepared the building to be empty for up to two years. Although we

have reduced our monthly net costs from just over £1,000 to just about £250 - giving us the much needed time to raise the £1M ahead of the refurbishment.

If we hadn't closed, the hall would have gone bust in under a year. We have also completed the business plan and this is now with our professional fund raisers to include it in their bids to raise the money. Over the next 12 months, the priority will be to raise the money needed for the refurbishment.

Given that it will be almost impossible to raise the amount we need from one single source, we expect that we'll raise money from several different places. This might include: The National Lottery, foundations and trusts, individual donors and of course the community. To ensure that we have a robust option for the community to remain included, we'll be updating our website early in the new year to include a variety of options for local people to lend their support (financial or otherwise) - so keep an eye out for that!

Once we have a better view on the total that we'll have access to, we can begin the process of finalising the architects plans, working through the planning permission process with the Council and then releasing an invitation to tender to contractors. The board of trustees is committed to keeping the entire refurbishment to as short a time scale as possible, but it is likely that we won't see the hall reopened until the end of 2019 at the earliest. While we go through were disappointed to have had to close this process, we are grateful to everyone the hall in the first place, by doing so we for their support and encouragement!

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Are YOU up for something different this New Year?

I do not mean getting on the treadmill to work off the Xmas meal!

Why not come along to our community choir and enjoy singing with a bunch of people who like to smile! We meet every Wednesday evening (during term time) at 7.30pm at Swavesey Village College. Term starts on 10th January.

Feel free to "come and try us out" anytime!

Email: swavesey.community.choir@gmail.com www.swaveseycommunitychoir.co.uk Find us on on Facebook too.

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Burgess Hall Events

For tickets or further information about any of the Burgess Hall events listed please visit: www.burgesshall.net Information: 01480 388500 • Box Office: 01480 388111

Puss In Boots, Traditional Pantomime

Wednesday 10 January Show starts 7.30pm, tickets £8 Thursday 11 January Show starts 7.30pm, tickets £8 Friday 12 January Show starts 7.30pm, tickets £12 Saturday 13 January Show starts 11am, tickets £12 per adult / U16’s £8 • 3pm, tickets £12 per adult / U16’s £8 • 7.30pm, tickets £12 Sunday 14 January Show starts 1pm, tickets £12 per adult / U16’s £8 • 5pm, tickets £12 per adult / U16’s £8.

Boogie Nite

The Ultimate Queen Concert Show Saturday 27 January 8pm to 1am (no admittance after 10pm.) Tickets £8 in advance. Starlite Roadshow.

Indoor Car Boot

Sunday 28 January. 8am to 12pm (access for stall holders from 7am to 7.45am) £7 for 6ft stall / £12 for 12ft stall. 50p admission. Free for under 16's.

Stalls must be pre-booked.

St Ives 1940’s Vintage Fair and Dance Event

Boxing Dinner Saturday 3 February

Vintage Fair 10am - 4pm, entry £2. Music and Dance Event 7pm to midnight. Tickets £17.50.

Friday 26 January

Doors open 6pm, meal at 7pm end 11.30pm.

The Rotary Club of Huntingdon Police Amateur Boxing Club Annual Boxing Dinner.

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Thursday 22 February

at 7.30 pm.

Tickets from £20.00 per person.

The 40th anniversary of We Are The Champions is celebrated by this all-action production.

Jesterlarf Comedy Club

Friday 23 February To celebrate it’s 15th birthday the Jesterlarf Comedy Club presents a special gala show with top comedian Henning When. Doors: 7.15 pm Show: 8.00 pm. Tickets: £15.00 (plus £1.50 booking fee.)

Ivocon 2018

Saturday 3 March, 10.00 am - 4.00 pm. Come and join all the fun and get your geek on Burgess Bingo at the inaugural Ivocon! Come Wednesday 31 January see our special guests, cosplay Doors open 7 pm / End 9.30 guests, trade stalls and much pm. Free admission. Only £10 more!! Everything comic con for 10 games. related is here!

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23

Travel

NEW ZEALAND 'Known for its outstanding natural beauty and spectacular scenery, New Zealand is a country quite unlike any other,' says Holly Shotter, from Premier Travel in Huntingdon.

'Boasting award-winning wines, spectacular landscapes and miles of sandy beaches, far-flung New Zealand is truly remarkable. I was lucky enough to discover its charm for myself during a grand tour of the North Island – and I wasn’t disappointed.

Auckland was a brilliant introduction for our first few days; a fun city packed with things to see and do, it’s a great starting point and easy to navigate. We toured the iconic Skytower, trendy bars, restaurants and great shopping

Te Puia Rotorua haunts along Queen Street. At the bottom of Queen Street is a beautiful waterfront, where we sat in the sunshine and enjoyed a light lunch and a few beers.

Boarding a coach, we headed to Parry Kauri Park to see a Kauri tree, New Zealand’s largest and famous native tree. They grow in the northern part of the North Island; the park is a stunning place off the tourist trail and highly recommended.

After lunch, we travelled to Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where we had a guided tour and heard the story behind the signing of the treaty between the Maori tribes and British in 1840; it was absolutely fascinating. From the Treaty Grounds, we took a short ride to Paihia, in the heart of the Bay of Islands, where we stayed for two nights. Bay of Islands is an aquatic playground, lavishly furnished with 144 islands and a myriad of secluded beaches.

The next day, my group joined a luxury catamaran to sail around the bay to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Although it was a bit overcast, the scenery was breath-taking and we spotted dolphins and seals playing around us.

The catamaran dropped us at Russell, the first capital of New Zealand, where we had a delicious lunch at the Duke of Marlborough Hotel on the waterfront. It dates back to 1827 and has New Zealand’s first liquor licence. I finally got

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to sample some New Zealand lamb and it didn’t disappoint.

After lunch, we got to see the Bay of Islands the best way – by air in a helicopter.

Also on our itinerary was a visit to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, known for its bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs. We spent an afternoon relaxing in the Polynesian spa overlooking Lake Rotorua.

The following morning, we took the Rotorua Gondola up Mount Ngongotaha to enjoy breakfast at 478 metres above sea level. Then Holly Shotter in it was time to ride a New Zealand luge – a three-wheel cart which we steered down a 5km track. It was great fun and I did it three times.

We ventured to Te Puia in the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, an attraction that brings together five experiences: Geothermal, Nature, Maori Architecture, Maori Culture and Maori Arts and Crafts. The first part of our visit was a guided walk around the grounds to view the arts and crafts school, followed by going into the bush to spot New Zealand’s native kiwi bird. We were shown how plants are used for food, medicine and handicrafts.

Leaving Rotorua, we made our way to Hobbiton, the movie set for the ‘Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ movies, and one of New Zealand’s top attractions. Our guide recounted details of how the farmland was transformed into the Shire from Middle Earth - it was so interesting to see where these blockbusters were filmed. A delicious Shire buffet lunch was enjoyed before heading back to Auckland for a farewell dinner at the Crowne Plaza.

I packed so much into my 10-day adventure but there’s still much more to discover and I only just scratched the surface. I’m already planning when I can return for more.'

Hobbiton, the movie set for the ‘Lord of the Rings’

Premier Travel in Huntingdon can offer a seven night escorted coach tour of New Zealand’s North Island from £1,295pp, including B&B accommodation, dinner on selected days, and sightseeing. Other offers are also available.

To book, call the branch on 01480 371777 or visit www.premier-travel.co.uk

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made in Dagenham the musical From the company that brought you Priscilla Queen of the Desert in 2017, the Musical Theatre Company is returning this February for its tenth annual show at the Hinchingbrooke Performing Arts Centre in Huntingdon.

The Company will be transporting audiences back to the groovy Sixties for the rousing musical comedy “Made in Dagenham”. Based on the critically acclaimed 2010 film of the same name, the musical tells the true story of the women’s strikes at a car manufacturing plant in Dagenham. The plot follows the story of Rita O’Grady, a mother, wife and factory worker, as she leads her female colleagues into battle against the unions to fight for equal pay. A journey of strength and friendship and filled with large helpings of humour, “Made in Dagenham” is an unmissable ride into the past with a message that has never been more relevant in the present. Complete with an uplifting and catchy songs - this is one Huntingdon show not to be missed!

The Musical Theatre Company (MTC) is a nonprofit making initiative aimed at showcasing young talented performers in the form of a musical production. Many cast members are actively studying performing arts with a desire to build a career in music, dance or theatre. MTC provides a realistic insight for performers into the world of musical theatre and valuable experience of being involved in a professional production. You can find out more about the Musical Theatre Company on their website www.musicaltheatrecompany.co.uk Dates of the shows are as follows: Wednesday 14th February, 19.30 Thursday 15th February, 19.30 Friday 16th February, 19.30 Saturday 17th February, 14.30 and 19.30

Find out more about the Musical Theatre Company at www.musicaltheatrecompany.co.uk

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The Causeway, Godmanchester December 2017.

Photograph by Danny McCarthy

Townspeople sledging on Castle Mound, Huntingdon, December 2017.

Photograph by Alan Lamprell

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27

Leisure THERAPY COLOURING PAGE

relax, unwind, take a little time out of your busy day to spend colouring, you'll be surprised by how relaxing it is!

When you have coloured in the design, take a photo of it and send it to the editor, we'll post them on our Facebook page: @myfriendhuntingdon

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Memories Collage Send images of your best memories, this could be a wedding, birthday, holiday, your pet, your car, that time you won the golf trophy at your local club...

Anything that was special to you, I can make into a collage with the photographs and any other images you choose (subject to copyright). The collage can be printed and framed to make a fantastic gift.

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Photo-editing Services Email your enquiry to: jacqueline.barnett8@gmail.com Please mention My Friend magazine when responding to adverts.

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PUZZLES

SUDOKU

Answers Crossword 53

CROSSWORD 14) Tenth month of the year (7) Across 15) Motor-driven revolving 1) Necessary condition (11) cylinder (7) 9) County in SE England (5) 10) Worn channel (3) 11) ...John: Rocket Man singer (5) 12) Recipient of money (5) 13) Anxious uncertainty (8) 16) Cats coat (anag) (8) 18) Sudden movement (5) 21) Expels from a position (5) 22) Key on a computer keyboard (3) 23) Ascend (5) 24) Hostile and aggressive (11) Down 2) Boastful person (7) 3) Overturned (7) 4) Hurries (6) 5) Confusion (3-2) 6) Anxious (5) 7) Coarse cotton gauze (11) 8) Energetically or vigorously (11)

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17) Measuring duration (6) 19) Admirable (5) 20) Do really well at (5)

Call us now on 01480 407969 / 07734 145062 9 Chester Road, Colmworth Business Park, Eaton Socon, St Neots PE19 8YT

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We have moved to 5 & 6 Falcon Court, Falcon Road, Hinchingbrooke Business Park, Huntingdon PE29 6PG

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