The Fuddler January 2019

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Est. 2002

NEED AN ELECTRICIAN? NIC-EIC Registered All electrical work Testing and Certification Free Estimates AMPTHILL ELECTRICAL SERVICES

01525 632921 07977173452

A great big welcome to this the first Fuddler of the New Year and we hope you all enjoyed a wonderful Christmas!

As always we very much hope you will enjoy this issue - you will find lots of interesting stories inside plus the usual fun and

nonsense and of course those all important messages from our advertisers! Do please look carefully through as you never know what you might find in The Fuddler!

We wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year and we’ll see you soon!

Flitwick Pet Services We care for your pets while you’re at work or on holiday x x x x x x x

Countryside walks Home boarding Puppy care Canine first aid trained Day care Police checked/fully insured Secure transportation

www.flitwickpetservices.co.uk or find us on facebook

07379 690824 / 01525 635465

DH Cox & Sons General Builders x x x x x

Over 30 years’ experience Local friendly services Can undertake all aspects of building and maintenance to an exceptional standard No job too small Free & competitive quotes

Call Dave 07976 766143 or 01525 841670 dhcoxbuilding@hotmail.co.uk

Tim Butlin Building and Plastering

Celebrating over 30 years in business!

See our ad on page 5

Sick PC or laptop?

Call the Doc for Hardware & software Diagnosis & treatment

01525-402227 john.stafford@compu-doc.co.uk

How do you know when an Accountants having a mid life crisis?

He buys a faster calculator!

Accounts, Payroll, Bookkeeping, Tax, Business Advice ... and much more.

Ring to book a free, noͲobligation meeting today!

114 High Street, Cranfield, Beds, MK43 0DG Tel: 01234 752566 Email: info@vowles.co.uk www.vowles.co.uk

When responding to an advert please say you found it in The Fuddler!

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ŵƉƚŚŝůů 'ůĂƐƐ ĞŶƚƌĞ YƵĂůŝƚLJ tŝŶĚŽǁƐ Ͳ ŽŽƌƐ Ͳ ŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƚŽƌŝĞƐ Ͳ 'ůĂƐƐ DĞƌĐŚĂŶƚƐ Ͳ 'ůĂnjŝŶŐ ŽŶƚƌĂĐƚŽƌƐ ϭϮ ŵƉƚŚŝůů ƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ WĂƌŬ͕ ^ƚĂƚŝŽŶ ZŽĂĚ͕ ŵƉƚŚŝůů͕ ĞĚĨŽƌĚƐŚŝƌĞ͕ D<ϰϱ ϮYt dĞůĞƉŚŽŶĞ͗ ϬϭϱϮϱ ϰϬϯϬϭϱ ͬ ϰϬϯϲϬϵ &Ădž͗ ϬϭϱϮϱ ϰϬϮϱϮϭ ǁǁǁ͘ĂŵƉƚŚŝůůŐůĂƐƐĐĞŶƚƌĞ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ

,ĂƉƉLJ EĞǁ zĞĂƌ͊

With energy costs rising and temperatures falling why not save on your monthly bills and complement your house with great looking, thermally efficient windows and doors.

tŝŶĚŽǁƐ hWs Θ ůƵŵŝŶŝƵŵ Zϵ tŝŶĚŽǁƐ sĞƌƚŝĐĂů ^ůŝĚŝŶŐ tŝŶĚŽǁƐ

ŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƚŽƌŝĞƐ

ŽŽƌƐ

džĐĞůůĞŶƚ ƚŚĞƌŵĂů ŝŶƐƵůĂƚŝŽŶ ƌĞĚƵĐŝŶŐ ĞŶĞƌŐLJ ĐŽƐƚƐ͘ tĂƌŵĞƌ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ǁŝŶƚĞƌ ŵŽŶƚŚƐ͘ ƵĂů ĂĐƚŝŽŶ ƐĞůĨͲĐůĞĂŶ ŐůĂƐƐ͘

ƌĂŶŐĞ ŽĨ ůƵŵŝŶŝƵŵ ĂŶĚ hWs ŽŽƌƐ͘

EŽ ǁŝŶĚŽǁ Žƌ ŐůĂnjŝŶŐ ũŽď ƚŽŽ ƐŵĂůů WƵƚ LJŽƵƌ ƚƌƵƐƚ ŝŶ Ă ĐŽŵƉĂŶLJ ƚŚĂƚ ŚĂƐ ďĞĞŶ ƚƌĂĚŝŶŐ ĨŽƌ ŽǀĞƌ ϯϬ LJĞĂƌƐ͊ &Žƌ Ăůů LJŽƵƌ ǁŝŶĚŽǁ͕ ĚŽŽƌƐ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƚŽƌLJ ŶĞĞĚƐ ĐĂůů ƵƐ ŶŽǁ Žƌ ǀŝƐŝƚ ŽƵƌ ǁĞďƐŝƚĞ͘ Don’t forget - if you have missed an issue - you can catch up at www.thefuddler.com

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Do You Want To Feel Like NEW Again?

Book Your:

@acgmassage acgmassage.co.uk

Sports & Remedial Massage Deep Tissue Massage Kinesiology Taping Cupping Many More Treatments Available..

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FREE PRESCRIPTION DELIVERY Our prescription service means you can have your repeat prescription dispensed and delivered hassle free!

FREE DELIVERY TO YOUR DOOR The NHS Electronic Prescription Service allow Doctors to send your prescription to us at Cheeseman’s Pharmacy.

We will then dispense your repeat prescription and deliver to your address.

We cover/deliver around Ampthill, Clophill, Flitwick, Houghton Conquest, Marston Moretaine, Maulden, Silsoe, Stewartby, Wilstead and Wixams.

TO REGISTER OR FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL US NOW ON 01525 402173

CHEESEMANS PHARMACY OF AMPTHILL Tel: 01525 402173

Call Alfie to book your home visit 07861 198696

Meet at ARA club Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF. Thursday 17th January 7.30pm Jeff Blincow, a life long bird watcher & international traveller, presents ‘Ethiopia – Highlands to the Rift Valley’.

Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5. Reg. Charity No. 207076, more info www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford Next meeting - Tuesday January 15th at 2.30pm in the Addison Centre, Kempston, Bedford. Plenty of parking space available.

Flight research at the Royal Aircraft Establishment, (RAE), Bedford a talk by Barry Tomlinson There will be a small charge for entry. Everyone welcome.

For more information contact Betty Thomas on 01480 860 421 New members wanted for Ampthill & District Probus Club (for retired professional business people aiming to give their grey matter a work out). Reward - good company and enjoyment with like minded ‘young at heart ‘ professionals.

Contact Alan on 01234 961786 for the low down or view our website on www.ampthillprobus.co.uk.

Remember to get your tickets for Maulden Players annual Pantomime performed this month in Maulden Village Hall. This year it is PINOCCHIO a script written by Maulden Players very own Simon Jeffrey and, as usual, in the tradition of Maulden Players will be a delight for families and fun for all ages.

Whilst not a traditional panto everybody knows the story of Pinocchio, a wooden boy. He will be joined by Geppetto the toy maker, Jiminy Cricket to add some wise-cracks, Blue Fairy to provide the magic and many more various characters.

Come and join in the fun and get ready with your cheers and boos.

The Pantomime will be performed at Maulden Village Hall on Friday January 25th at 8pm and on Saturday January 26th at 2pm and 7.30pm.

Tickets are £10 for adult’s £7 for children under 16 and concessions. All profits go to charity.

Box Office numbers are 01525 402706 and 07799 895740 or you can book online at www.mauldenplayers.co.uk

Call Kelly Marie today for a free quote All aspects of tree and gardening work carried out Weeding, Digging, Pruning, Grass Cutting, Hedges Trimmed, Trees Pruned, Jungles Cleared and all rubbish taken away Please Call:

01525 794103 / 01908 887295 When responding to an advert please say you found it in The Fuddler!

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LORD DEE’S PONDERINGS

The illuminations have been removed and carefully packed away I’ve told Alexa where I have put them so there should be no problem finding them this year.

Sincere thanks for the many kind comments on the display and a very Happy New Year to everyone. Also birthday felicitations to Mellors for the 18th.

Ciao

A BRIANISM (With fond memories) My car isn’t fully automatic - I found I still have to steer it.

When the time comes to say goodbye Talk to Pam Woods Civil Funeral Celebrant for a service that reflects only your own beliefs and wishes.

01234 742 3 07515282755 pamwoods55@gmail.com

Across: 1 Myriad, 4 Gaggle, 7 Mistletoe, 9 Alas, 10 Wrap 11 Beget, 13 Yonder, 14 Rustle, 15 Acquit, 17 Pelham, 19 Never, 20 Void, 22 Glut, 23 Nectarine, 24 Titfer, 25 Lesson

Down: 1 Malady, 2 Iris, 3 Dither, 4 Geezer, 5 Glow, 6 Elapse, 7 Mannequin, 8 Erstwhile, 11 Begin, 12 Tuber, 15 Advent, 16 Teeter, 17 Petrel, 18 Mitten, 21 Deaf, 22 Gnus

“The Fuddler” is published by MDA Publications. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. No part of this publication may be copied in any form or by any means without written permission of the Publisher. Copyright MDA Publications.

KINGS ARMS PATH GARDENS, AMPTHILL

Like to book an ad, or ask about our absurdly low rates please ring Martin on

These beautiful gardens are open on the last Sunday of the month from January until October from 2.30 until 5.00pm Adults £1.00 admission under 16’s free Plants for sale. Refreshments available.

Or if you prefer, drop us an email to martin@thefuddler.com

Don’t forget - if you have missed an issue - you can catch up at www.thefuddler.com

Advertising feature

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It’s not often that someone has the same job throughout their whole working life, but I done just that, I’ve worked in the building trade man and boy and still enjoy the job as much as ever, even if the aches and pains tell a different story!

Leaving school at the age of 16 I had already decided that I wanted a job with a trade. My father was a builder and I loved going with him to see the jobs he was working on. I was lucky to get a labourer’s position with a local firm, MF Battams that had a good reputation for quality work. It was here that I learnt my trade. I was taught everything from bricklaying to plastering, The firm was ‘old school’ in its ways so very strict about things like time keeping and looking after your tools. But most importantly I was taught to always take a pride in my work and, 30 years on, I still do.

At the age of 25 I felt confident enough to set up on my own. It’s always hard getting started and business was slow at first.

But the more I did, the more recommendations I got and gradually my client list grew. I built up a list of repeat customers and some of them I still have to this day. In 2004 my son Joe joined the firm. As a boy he had always shown a keen interest in my work so it was inevitable that he would go to college to learn the skill of plastering. He is now fully qualified and a valued member of the team. As a company we are going from strength to strength. We do building extensions, renovations, block paving and plastering to name but a few.

We have now added a decorating service to our list. This is proving to be very popular as it means we can provide a complete package to our clients. The work is carried out by Impressions Ͳ two lady decorators who just happen to be my wife, Sophie, and sister in law Ros, who set up business in 2008. Their work blends very well with mine as we can coordinate with each other to minimise any upheaval to the client and get the work done quicker. They can help with colour choices and wall covering selection as well as providing mood boards and soft furnishing options.

Customer satisfaction is very important to me and my clients are always happy to let potential customers view my finished projects. After 30 years in the business out vision for the future is to continue to provide an honest, reliable high quality service with competitive prices Ͳ really exactly the same as the day I started!

Tim Butlin To view some of my work please go to www.timbutlinbuilders.co.uk

T Butlin Building and Plastering Est 1987

For your extensions, renovations, alterations, Upvc fascias / soffitts, guttering, block paving and all plastering including artex ceilings and walls plastered back to flat

07778 680393

email: timbutlin@hotmail.co.uk

Also offering: Impressions Female decorators

All aspects of painting and decorating.

With female finesse to make the most of your home

07944 710179 email:sophiebutlin@hotmail.co.uk www.timbutlinbuilders.co.uk When responding to an advert please say you found it in The Fuddler!

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Building Preservation Specialists x

Damp Proofing

x

Woodworm Treatments

x

Dry / Wet Rot Treatments

x

Basement Waterproofing

Telephone/Fax (01525) 406655 Mobile: 07850 727752 email: Jim@dunritepreservation.co.uk

16 Tavistock Avenue, Ampthill, Bedford. MK45 2RY

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Sandra’s been busy again looking through her big book of words (dictionary?) and brings us the word below. (Nothing to do with the crossword.) Just look at the hexagon and see whether or not the word jumps out at you!

(Answer at the bottom of the page if it doesn’t!)

Y

23

24

Here’s another of Marjorie’s fine crosswords for our entertainment Across: Down: 1 Arrogance (6) 1 Rupture (6) 4 Bloke (6) 2 Compete (4) 7 Rapscallion (9) 3 Wanted (6) 9 Memo (4) 4 Move restlessly (6) 10 Wise (4) 5 Sediment (4) 11 Cartoon TV ogre (5) 6 Broadens (6) 13 Go away! (arch) (6) 7 Staunch (9) 14 Essay (6) 8 Lethargy (9) 15 Cold table (6) 11 Smirk (5) 17 Glided over ice (6) 12 Yellowish brown colour (5) 19 Healing technique (5) 15 Lacking (6) 20 Get up (4) 16 Racket sport (6) 22 Cutting tool (4) 17 Video chatted (6) 23 Occur (9) 18 Dull (6) 24 Derides (6) 21 Sore (anag) (4) 25 Lethal (6) 22 District (4)

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Est 1965 Electrical Contractor Domestic and Industrial Rewires & Fuseboard upgrades

Pat Eldin

FREE QUOTATIONS

Carpentry, Joinery and Building Services

NICEIC Approved Contractor over 25 Years 11 Cedar Close, Ampthill, Bedford, MK45 2UD

07768 008951

07702 080623 Tel & Fax: 01525 714057

01462 812242 pateldinbarbel@hotmail.co.uk

Don’t forget - if you have missed an issue - you can catch up at www.thefuddler.com

Frivolity

Your local Electrical Contractor All types of testing and certification undertaken PAT testing & Landlords

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Thinking of separating?

What should your first steps be?

You should arrange a meeting with a local solicitor that specialises in family law to discuss your options and to be advised in relation to the law. You should also, though, consider thereafter meeting with a mediator.

A family mediator will in a non-judgemental way assist couples dealing with separation or divorce. The Mediator remains neutral so does not take sides; they are independent and so for that reason, won’t provide legal advice to either party, although they can provide legal information.

It might seem difficult to meet face to face with your ex-partner/spouse to discuss issues whilst emotions are running high, but the Mediator is there to help keep the parties focused, offering a helping hand and concentrating on what really matters, whether in relation to children or finances.

Philip Elliott Mediator & Solicitor

Mediation keeps a communication channel open to discuss the relevant issues and helps build on the future relationship, especially where children are involved.

It is usually considerably less expensive than negotiating through solicitors or attending Court and allows the parties to retain control over the outcome (so that they decide rather than a Judge) whilst working at a pace that suits both parties.

If you would like legal advice on your situtation or alternatively would like to engage in mediation, then please do not hesitate to make contact.

Ampthill: Bedford: Online:

01525 750750 01234 303030 www.sharmanlaw.co.uk

88 Dunstable Street, Ampthill, MK45 2JR 1 Harpur Street, Bedford, MK40 1PF info@sharmanlaw.co.uk

When responding to an advert please say you found it in The Fuddler!

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With The Duchess of Troll Reflections in the Dewpond.

‘The No 200 Bus’

36 Dunstable Street, Ampthill Telephone 01525 634857 3500+ Ales from April 2010 THE PERMANENT BEER FEST SOUTH BEDS CAMRA PUB OF THE YEAR 2014 A big thank you to everybody who supported The Albion during 2018, and for making our Charity Events so successful.

We wish you all a happy and peaceful 2019,

Russell and the Crew xXx

Ampthill Writers’ Group meet at The Albion, first Wednesday of every Month 8pm You can now see us on Facebook You can’t B&T it!

CAMRA BEDS PUB OF THE YEAR 2013 OUR OTHER PUBS ARE: The Globe, Winfield Street, Dunstable (Bedfordshire Pub of the year 2010) - Tel: 01582 512300 The Wellington Arms, Wellington Street, Bedford (North Beds Pub of the year 2010) - Tel: 01234 308033 The Elm Tree, Orchard Street, Cambridge - Tel: 01223 502632 The Brewery Tap, North Bridge Street, Shefford Tel: 01462 628448

www.banksandtaylor.com

Both Sam Ilex and the Mrs Sam were enjoying the story of Brig the Old English Sheepdog on that beautiful Sunday afternoon, so long ago. Were Sundays all so sunny so long ago? The Five Old Friends and the Mrs Sam waved goodbye to the girl with the wet hair as she made her way up the Long Walk to Wrest Park.(Be dry by the time she reached work) Sam Ilex and the Mrs Sam began to tell of years ago when they took the two grandsons to Wrest Park for The St. George and the Dragon, on the 23rd April, St George's Day. It was not a bad day to start with as the two boys were enthralled by the antics of the knights and the fine display of sword fighting, and of the narrator, who had a gift for telling stories, waving his sword skywards, shouting about the consequences of St George not defeating the Dragon. Next minute he had help for St George as the sky blackened, the clouds opened up pouring heavy rain on the scene, the thunder and lightning added perfectly to the performance as the actor's, troopers to the end finished the story. Soaking wet the Mrs Sam and Sam Ilex and the two boys ran to the tea room in the Orangery for a cup of tea and cakes.

The A6 beckons, a slow drive to the Clophill roundabout, lots of various wild flowers along the verge, amazing how they survive the traffic. Survive they do after the hottest summer for ages, they had withered, looking dead, as the longed for rain came the green shoots rose above the browned lower leaves. Marvellous. Dapper Charlie, Charlie and Sam Ilex peered over to the village green, seems so small today, yet years ago the travelling fair stood there, as the conversation turned to, a place to meet friends and even future partners. Ten Acre, Rabbit Bob nor the Mrs Sam had been fortunate enough to go, as they lived further away, and too far to bike to. Clophill 's long high street, the River Flit hidden now, has so many different houses, some ancient some modern. A real mixture, which makes it an interesting journey.

The winding lanes, across the River Flit to reach the Beadlow turn to progress to a small turning to a even longer winding lane, enclosed by the neatest field hedgerows. Ten Acre couldn't resist saying that it is so easy a job nowadays, sitting on a tractor with a frail attachment, that just needs a good eye. One to get a good line, the other to watch for traffic! The village of Gravenhurst, sat on a hilltop gives a much enjoyed view of secret Bedfordshire, stretching along the huge landscape of fields and distant farms and churches. How fortunate to live there, especially as the morning Sun 's colour the low clouds red and highlight the silver streaks of planes leaving Luton Airport. A joy. A pleasure to get up early, costs no money .either. Overwhelming landscape.

A short distance, country lanes, farms to the small village of Campton, still with a church a village hall, and school, beautiful meadows, with calves with their Mothers, spending the day slowly grazing the sweet herbs and grass. Sheep graze one side of the road horses wait to be ridden. Just as we six grew up with Rabbit Bob remarked, wonder how far you can walk along a the River Flit in the village, or if you can paddle it in the summer. The Mrs Sam said you will love this next bit, past Chicksands, keep your eye out for the hares in the spring, when 'The hares box' the field has sheep but neither mind the other. Nature at its best. Always crows about too.

The town of Shefford is always busy, shops and building houses everywhere, Of course the main road holds a fair in the back end of the summer, just as traditionally it always has. Yet another chance to met friends, relatives and perhaps a future partner. We are a bit late this year, but we should make the effort, agreed the Five Old Boys with the Mrs Sam. It's great watching the huge modern lorries unfold to become the fantasy world of a street fair, not like years ago with steam lorries and trailers , puffing smoke and expressing steam, bags of coal heaped ready to feed the engines, that turned the belts to drive the lights and rides. Miss the smell. Ate my first toffee apple at a street fair, Ten Acre reflected.

D.O.T.

Don’t forget - if you have missed an issue - you can catch up at www.thefuddler.com

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ŝĚĞĂů ĞLJĞǁĞĂƌ LJŽƵƌ ƚƌƵůLJ ŝŶĚĞƉĞŶĚĞŶƚ ŽƉƚŝĐŝĂŶ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŚĞĂƌƚ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ

dŚĞ ŐƌĞĂƚ ŚĂůĨ ƉƌŝĐĞ ĨƌĂŵĞ ƐĂůĞ Ăƚ ŝĚĞĂů ĞLJĞǁĞĂƌ ŝƐ ŶŽǁ ŽŶ͘ ϱϬй ŽĨĨ ƐĞůĞĐƚĞĚ ĨƌĂŵĞƐ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ƉƌŝĐĞ ŝŶĐůƵĚĞƐ ΎƐŝŶŐůĞ ǀŝƐŝŽŶ ůĞŶƐĞƐ͊

ŽĐŽ ^ŽŶŐ ǁĂƐ άϮϵϬ

EŽǁ ά EŽǁ άϭϰϱ άϭϰϱ

&LJƐŚ ǁĂƐ άϭϲϬ

ĂůǀŝŶ <ůĞŝŶ ǁĂƐ άϭϵϬ

EŽǁ ά EŽǁ άϴϬ άϴϬ

EŽǁ ά EŽǁ άϵϱ άϵϱ

KƚŚĞƌ ƌĂŶĚƐ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ŝŶĐůƵĚĞ WĂƵů ŽƐƚĞůůŽĞ͕ ŚĂƌůĞƐ ^ƚŽŶĞ EĞǁ zŽƌŬ͕ dŽŵ ĂǀŝĞƐ͕ WƌĂĚĂ͕ ůůĞ͕ sŝŶLJů &ĂĐƚŽƌLJ͕ <ĂƌĞŶ DŝůůĞŶ ĂŶĚ ŵĂŶLJ ŵŽƌĞ ŐƌĞĂƚ ďĂŶĚƐ ƚŽ ĐŚŽŽƐĞ ĨƌŽŵ ŝŶƐƚŽƌĞ͘ Ăůů ϬϭϱϮϱ ϳϭϱϳϱϵ ƚŽ Ŭ LJŽƵƌ ƐŝŐŚƚ ƚĞƐƚ ĂƉƉŽŝŶƚŵĞŶƚ͘ Kƌ ĞǀĞŶ ďĞƚƚĞƌ ĐĂůů ŝŶ

ŝĚĞĂů ĞLJĞǁĞĂƌ ϭϭϬ dŚĞ ,ĂǁƚŚŽƌŶƐ &ůŝƚǁŝĐŬ D<ϰϱ ϭ&E

KƚŚĞƌ ŽƉƚŝĐŝĂŶ͛Ɛ ƉƌĞƐĐƌŝƉƚŝŽŶƐ ǁĞůĐŽŵĞ͘ When responding to an advert please say you found it in The Fuddler!

Page 10

CHEESEMANS PHARMACY OF AMPTHILL Tel: 01525 402173

Huge range of fragrances for her and for him with massive savings on price Ͳ please call in for details!

Just right for Valentine’s day!

FARMERS MARKET

The Farmers Market in Woburn is held on the third Sunday of every month from 10.00 - 2.00 at The Pitchings in the village.

Don’t forget The Charter Market in Ampthill every Thursday and Flitwick Market on Fridays!

14th January

With Jimmy The Voice This month JTV has sent us this curiosity! Which of the thicker vertical lines is longest? JTV reckons they’re the same! ...

... we’re not so sure though but, what do you think?

By Julio Van Peebles Julio’s worries and useless facts: 1) Why don’t automated answer phones just start ‘please press 1 if you want to speak to somebody’ instead of leaving it until the end?

2) Did you know that Charlie Chaplin had a brother called Syd? 3) Who can remember being called a nit?

4) Do you know that they started building the Taj Mahal in 1631?

5) When the first phone call was made by Alexander Graham Bell, did the person the other end wonder what was ringing?

Julio’s interesting ‘Pie’ fact: Did you know that the world custard pie championships are held at Coxheath near Maidstone?

Happy Birthday to the ‘Olympic Flame’ xx Many Happy Returns to George for the 9th January Happy Birthday to FG for the

Like, Happy Birthday Alex for like, the 7th January!

18th January!

Maulden Garage Ltd FOR ALL YOUR VEHICLE NEEDS Modern Classic or Vintage Repairs, Servicing, Breakdowns, Fabrication, Tyres, Exhausts Classic Rally Car Preparation and on event service support Unit 10 Woodside Clophill Road Maulden Beds MK45 2AE www.mauldengarage.co.uk mauldengarage@btconnect.com

01525 862877 Free local delivery and collection service

Don’t forget - if you have missed an issue - you can catch up at www.thefuddler.com

Page 11

Your local garage door expert for:

Replacements, Repairs and Spares x All makes & designs available x 24 Hour repair service x No call out charge x All work guaranteed x Free quotations Call us now on: 01525 721615 / 07761 093468 Website: www.garagedoorsolutionsltd.co.uk Or see the yellow pages

OFFER Two Suits Drycleaned For £20 Our Many Services Include

NOW OPEN EVENINGS

Specialist Drycleaning Wedding Dress cleaning Shoe Repair Key Cutting Shoe & Bag Cleaning Ironing Service

3, Woodcock Walk, Flitwick, Bedfordshire, MK 45 1RD @BradleysDryCleaners

BRADLEYS DRYCLEANERS 109 Dunstable Street, Ampthill, Bedford. 01525 405817 Open Mon - Fri 8.30am - 7pm ] Sat 9am - 4pm

Happy Birthday ‘Bootsie’ for the 11th January Here’s a little more whimsy from one of our readers:

A lorry loaded with a popular Vapo Rub overturned on the motorway. Police have confirmed there will be no congestion for eight hours.

Oh Dear! But thanks!

Happy Birthday to Lil for the 14th January

with Auntie Vi I don’t think we get smarter as we get older. I just think that we run out of silly things to do.

My New Year’s resolution is to break my New Year’s resolution - that way I succeed at something.

If you think that you are too small to make a difference you haven’t spent the night with a mosquito.

My friend is in real trouble. She said her New Year resolution was to stop putting her foot in it every time she opened her mouth. She then asked if I was going to lose weight this year.

Worrying works. 90% of the things I worry about never happen.

My idea of exercise is ripping the wrapper off a Cadbury’s Creme egg.

There is no safety in numbers - or anything else.

Good judgment comes from bad experience ... and most of that comes from bad judgment.

Instead of cleaning the house I just turn off the lights.

People say laughter is the best medicine, but I would like to think that a big box of chocolates is the better choice.

My friend’s husband is so silly that at the bottom of the application form he had filled in it said sign. He put Taurus.

When you say ‘I love you’ - don’t expect your cat to respond.

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1. When was ‘Auld Lang Syne’ written?

2. W h o w r o t e t h e p l a y ‘Amadeus’?

3. A ‘Bevor’ is to be found where?

4. What sort of creature is a ‘Skink’?

5. Who created ‘Inspector Bill Aveyard’?

6. Where would you find a ‘Burgee’?

7. In which Dickensian novel would you meet ‘Miss Knag’?

8. I f y o u s u f f e r e d f r o m ‘Neophobia’ what would you fear?

9. A ‘Cast’ is the collective term for which creature?

10.The ’Book of Kells’ is located in which city?

1 1788, 2 Peter Shaffer, 3 Suit of armour, 4 Lizard, 5 James Fraser, 6 Sailing boat, 7 Nicholas Nickleby 8 New things, 9 Crab, 10 Dublin

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Bradnam Guttering When responding to an advert please say you found it in The Fuddler!

Page 12

Ben Keenan

HUMAN GIVENS THERAPIST MHGI. HG Dip. (Dist) PSA. Public Standards Authority Accredited Register

The world of counselling/psychotherapy is a very different place to what it was even ten years ago! Neurological science has provided insights that when combined with the best of other approaches provides a fast and effective solution focused therapy (SFBT) that is embodied in Human Givens.

Treatment does not just mean sitting and endlessly talking, it is also about effectively understanding the issues and providing lasting realistic change.

Therapy thoughts Its been said that in 1963 T.S Eliot observed of TV that you can make a million people laugh at a joke at the same time while they still feel lonely. As a species we are not just about intellectual communication we need more. Neurologically our brains need to complete and balance all our emotional and intuitive patterns not just the intellectual. Physically our health depends on our hormonal levels being correctly maintained. None of this is achieved in front of a screen from within a car or through social media. We are wired as a social animal and need to be so. We are becoming so isolated we believe our thoughts are all real rather than constructs to help us view the world. All fairly obvious yet we for some reason ask why the level of mental health issues keeps rising? John Donne 1624 "no man is an island"

Here are more of your excellent photos of The Fuddler being read all around the world! On the left this month is Mike with his Fuddler at Sydney Harbour Bridge Australia and below there’s Santa and his helpers taking a well earned break on the Welsh Highland Railway!

Many thanks for those and if you are going away don’t forget to pack your Fuddler too!

Please send your photos of a Fuddler being read away from home to martin@thefuddler.com

Ben Keenan Ͳ 07860 195303 or email: therapyinbedforshire@outlook.com www.therapyinbedfordshire.co.uk Advert funded by BKPH Ltd

EN E S V! T S A N O

MERRY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! Richard and the team wish you all the very best for the forthcoming year and to offer sincere thanks to everyone who supported our various festivals and music nights which all raised money for charity!

Please watch out for details of more shenanigans as they happen throughout the forthcoming year!

WEDNESDAY QUIZ FROM 8.00pm Like pub quizzes? Why not call in one Wednesday night and join our friendly quiz?

There’s no charge and we can probably even find you a pencil! Everyone welcome.

Would you like to test your brain and be a quizmaster for the night?

Please speak to Richard and add your name to our quickly filling rota.

‘TOAD IN THE HOLE’ PLAYERS WANTED! If you would like to join our new league to play in this good old fashioned English bar game please come in and see Richard. It’s all starting soon.

‘Foozball’ also played here! Come and see!

SUNDAY LUNCHTIME NIBBLES You are invited to enjoy your Sunday lunchtime drink with more bar snacks than you could shake a stick at, and all with Richard’s compliments!

Don’t forget - if you have missed an issue - you can catch up at www.thefuddler.com

THIS MONTH’S CHESS PUZZLE Here’s another puzzle for all the chess aficionados out there!

Once again it’s white to play and checkmate is achieved in just two moves! If you can solve it please pop in an tell us all how.

Page 13

Now that 2019 is here, after all the celebrations are over and the Christmas products are no longer here, And our shop is now clear, as normal at MCCOLLS we are all still here.

But now we have Easter eggs that have come in, crème eggs, mini eggs, galaxy eggs, to name but a few, which ones will be good for you.

I know they’re in early as many of you have said But they’re selling well it has to be said…..

So what else are we doing in this New Year, Still helping others, is something we all hold dear.

We are still collecting food for the homeless where items can be placed in our special bin, We donate any food items that you would like to put in..

And I would like to thank everyone who has donated so far The last lot we collected nearly filled my car.

But its not just there we need your help, Because we are helping to support a group somewhere else.

We are collecting children’s and young people’s clothes To send to Ghana where the children are forgotten and dumped and have no homes.

Why here I hear you all ask, and want to know, It’s because it’s where my sister Karen has to go.

My sister with a group of others, Have been out there training nurses to help, care and support the local sick pregnant mother’s.

Even things like towels and antibacterial soap are just some of the things that they don’t have, Even loo rolls in their lav.

So if you would like to help in anyway Why not help and make someone’s day….. Thank you.

So from us we wish you all a Happy New Year And remember that we are always here (Well till eight pm anyway lol) Oh and I would just like to mention and welcome Graceys the bakery opposite our shop who are now there and helped me eat a lot lol.

Freshly made rolls coffee and hot food, I’ve tried so many things soon I won’t be able to move.

So if you would like to visit or place an order with them their phone number is here 01525 751595 best of luck to them McCOLLS 17 CHURCH ST AMPTHILL TEL: 01525 404096

When responding to an advert please say you found it in The Fuddler!

Page 14

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DAY & NIGHT IN JANUARY 2019 Please see our Facebook page or ring Michael on 01525 404666 for details OPENING TIMES: Monday evening 6.00 Ͳ 9.00 Tuesday to Friday lunchtime 12.00 Ͳ 2.00 Tuesday to Thursday evening 6.00 Ͳ 10.00 Friday and Saturday evening 6.00 Ͳ 11.00 www.donatellospizzeria.co.uk

91, Dunstable Street Ampthill Tel: (01525) 404666 Free parking available

POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT LAND WANTED If you have land that you think may be suitable for development for one house or one hundred houses give us a call and we will be pleased to come round and give you our opinion at no charge and without any obligation.

It might be the best call you make this year.

HUNTERHILL ESTATES Ltd 01234 766271 & 07786 038906 hunterhillestate@btinternet.com

The Arts Society in Woburn Area takes a necessary break over the Christmas period, but will re-open with a bang on January 31st at Aspley Guise village hall with a talk by Natalia Murray entitled “When Art danced with Music: Ballet Russes, Diaghilev and his Circle”.

This legendary company began its life in Paris in 1909 and continued until Sergei Diaghilev’s death in 1929 – The Ballet Russes were a worldwide phenomenon though never performing in Russia, where Revolution had disrupted society. Diaghilev was the masterful impresario who ensured that ballet would never be the same again. He introduced the greatest performers, Anna Pavlova, Vaslav Nijinsky, the greatest choreographers such as George Balanchine, designers such as Leon Bakst and composers such as Stravinsky and Prokoviev. The spectacle, the vivid almost animalistic dancing still has resonance today. Anyone who loves ballet and its music, must not miss this talk with its lavish illustrations. Natalia spent years in St Petersburg learning the history of the world-renowned Marinsky ballet school from whence it all originated.

Our talk in November was well attended, with free passes for guests. Mr Ian Gledhill’s witty talk about the creation and history of the theatre stage and of stage scenery was outstanding.

Our talk starts at 7.30. Booking is unnecessary, as a guest you will pay £7.50; but if you would like to join the Woburn Area branch of the Arts Society the membership fee is now £30 and you need to contact Mr Peter Lomax 01908 582313:peter@lomaxnet.com Ampthill Town CC will in the summer of 2019 be fielding 4 senior elevens on Saturdays & 3 on Sundays.

On Saturday the first & second elevens will compete in the Saracens Hertfordshire League with the third eleven taking part in the more local Four Counties League Sunday all three elevens will take part in the Bedfordshire County League We also have a Mid-Week XI entering the Cup Competitions as organised by Beds Cricket Ltd & East Beds Charity Shield (In 2018 we won the Heritage Cup organised by the East Beds Shield).

Indoor nets are on Sunday evenings starting on 10th February (for nine weeks) between 5pm & 7pm at Flitwick Leisure Centre. (Players of all abilities welcome) Practice during the season will take place on Wednesday nights on our Park ground M o r e d e t ai l s f r o m J e r e my D e g n an 07 95 8 524613 jeremy.degnan@tui.co.uk or William Sneath 07884 070103 willsneath@hotmail.com We shall be running youth teams at Under 9, 11, & 13 (In 2018 our Under 13s were the Bedfordshire Southern Champions).

To join this popular section of the club please contact Dave Bradley on 07468 912586 dave.bradley@hotmail.co.uk We will be hosting Bedfordshire CCC vs. Oxfordshire CCC on Sunday 12th May with an 11 am start for a 50 over a side game in the Minor County Knock Out

If you would like to book an advertisement in our next edition please just send an email over to martin@thefuddler.com for all the details

Don’t forget - if you have missed an issue - you can catch up at www.thefuddler.com

Page 15

January Clearance, up to 25% off !

Visit our 'Discount Den' from 2nd January.

There will be a room in our showroom full of discounted Fires Stoves and Accessories.

Don't miss out!

1, Bedford Street, Ampthill, Beds Tel: 01525 841199 www.ampthillfireplaces.co.uk Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm Sat: 10am - 4pm When responding to an advert please say you found it in The Fuddler!

Page 16

If you would like an advertisement in our next edition please ring Martin on 07530 869 365 or if you prefer send an email to martin@thefuddler.com for more details With Henrietta Wainsworth.

ARE YOU SEEKING A CHALLENGE? Citizens Advice Mid Bedfordshire is looking for volunteers who would like the opportunity to learn new skills and develop existing ones.

Located at offices in Ampthill and Biggleswade with satellites at Sandy and Stotfold, Citizens Advice assessors and advisers interview clients face to face and on the telephone.

They help people with a wide range of problems including debt, benefits, housing, employment and family matters.

Advisers receive free formal accredited training with all expenses paid. As well as advice-giving, the service has volunteering roles for fundraising, research and campaigns, book-keeping and social media.

We are also looking for new trustees and would welcome anyone with accountancy skills.

All sorts of people volunteer for the CAB, but one thing that unites them all is that they find it challenging, rewarding and varied – and you never stop learning.

If you would like further information please email us recruitment@midbedscab.cabnet.org.uk or call us on 01525 404715. We will then send you more details about the various roles and how to apply.

at Maulden Garden Centre on the A507 near A6 at Clophill (drive safe - turn at roundabout)

Telephone: 01525 861696 Postcode: MK45 2GP

Here we are again at that time of year when we can enjoy all the magic and fun of the pantomime Thankfully a far cry from a certain pantomime being played out at a ‘theatre’ in London at the moment.

Traditional villains but where is the good fairy?

Moving swiftly on The pantomime of the modern day has its origins from the middle ages influenced by the Italian Commedia dell’arte and the British Music Hall. Well known are the many characters which make up the pantomime stories – the principle boy, the dame, the good fairy, the wicked witch to name but a few and the ever popular audience participation. However there are some fascinating superstitions and traditions that may not be quite so well known.

The good fairy will always enter the stage from the right and the villain from the left.

This tradition started from the medieval idea that the entrances to heaven and hell were on these sides.

When saying her lines, the good fairy should transfer her wand from her right hand to her left to protect her from the demons.

In Pantomime the last lines s a id in th e f in a le, traditionally on rhyming couplets, should never be spoken at rehearsals but saved for the opening night.

In the days of Harlequinade – Harlequin was a character fro m the Co mmed ia dell’arte times and he featured in many comic

chases where he always carried a wooden sword which acted as both a weapon and a wand. It made a very loud slapping noise when worked which added to the dramatic stage effect.

This is where the term ‘slapstick’ came from.

Harlequin always wore a costume of bright coloured silk diamond shapes. The colours told a story of their own; yellow was for jealousy, red for anger, blue for faithfulness and black for his power of being invisible when he needed to be. He would point to the colours on his costume to tell the audience of his mood. Talking of colours, green has always been considered unlucky in the theatre. A bit difficult if the pantomime is Robin Hood and his Merry Men in their Lincoln green! Oh yes it is!

Whether you are a pantomime fan or not it has become a well loved tradition at Christmas time loved by many. The stories filled with tales of morality with an underdog battling evil and coming up triumphant, the stuff that gives hope. The witty lines of pantomime and televisions most hated characters playing the villain encouraging the loudest of boos, it’s all there to brighten up a gloomy January and lift the spirits.

They say there is a little bit of Peter Pan in all of us, Oh yes there is! So why not take ourselves out of reality for just a couple of hours and dig deep into the world of pure magic. HAPPY NEW YEAR. ©Henrietta Wainsworth.

Happy Birthday Pat for 28th January

Don’t forget - if you have missed an issue - you can catch up at www.thefuddler.com

Page 17

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Airport Transfers - Events - Special Occasion - Business Travel - Chauffeuring When responding to an advert please say you found it in The Fuddler!

Page 18

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Here’s a bit more mischief that I have come across; Divide 20 by half and add 30, what do you get?

Answer below

Happy Birthday Yogi for the 17th January!

Happy Birthday Mr Chuckles for the 22nd January!

Happy Birthday Minichap for the 31st January

Here’s a hearty, economical winter recipe that a reader would like to share with us: CHEESE, BACON AND VEGETABLE BAKE

For four people you will need: 1 Cauliflower, 1 Broccoli, 1 Leek, 4 Carrots, New potatoes (optional) 6 rasher streaky bacon/pack of lardons to chop up.

2 Packets of cheese sauce mix 1 pint of milk Cheddar cheese to grate And of course a little something to slurp.

Firstly thoroughly wash the vegetables. Prepare the

If you are quick you could book an advert like this in our next edition!

40 hours per week 5.30 amͲ2.00 pm £8.34 per hour to start Overtime rate available at £12.50 07736 896616 ccullen@thepcsgroup.co.uk cauliflower and broccoli, peel the carrots, wash and chop up the potatoes and chop the leek.

Put a large saucepan of water on to boil - chuck in all the veg and simmer.

Heat a little oil in the pan and fry the leek and chopped bacon/lardons until cooked.

When the veg is cooked transfer to an oven proof dish and add the bacon.

Make the cheese sauce mix according to instructions and add to dish.

Grate some cheese and add to top, pop in the oven until cheese is golden brown.

Serve with chunks of warm French bread.

(Also, we understand, absolutely delicious served with sausages!)

And thanks for that one!

With Enid Grimshaw

Sugar enjoyed a good press in those days, and was regarded as being white gold.

Cubed sugar was regarded as posh.

Eating raw fish was called poverty, not sushi.

People who didn't peel potatoes were regarded as lazy.

Healthy food consisted of anything edible.

Seaweed was not a recognised food.

Prunes were medicinal.

Water came out of the tap. If someone had suggested bottling it and charging more than petrol for it, they would have become a laughing stock!

Thanks once again Enid

JH ELECTRICAL AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE SERVICES • DOMESTIC • INDUSTRIAL • COMMERCIAL

Just ring Martin on 07530 869 365 or email martin@thefuddler.com

24 HR CALLOUT AVAILABLE All electrical work undertaken email: supaspark@tiscali.co.uk

Don’t forget - if you have missed an issue - you can catch up at www.thefuddler.com

70

Page 19

Best to have a Duvet Day! It had been one of those weeks. The morning's so dark, and as the weather forecasters tell us it’s mild. Not in Bedfordshire, it has been damp, then bright Sun shows up your dirty window glass, cannot see a thing out of bus windows, as the salt the council has spread over the roads, for ice that didn't appear, splashes the length of the bus, the Sun sits so low that you cannot see anyway. At least this year the road drains have been drained of plant life and general dirt, accrued over time, so ones legs are not splashed by deep puddles appearing roadside, thanks for that! Of course it is coming Christmas, everyone is stocking up for a winter famine, that never comes. Haven't got enough stamps for the cards, another queue to stand in, at least people are friendly. Post, am late as always, another way to look at it am early for Christmas 2019.

Having dropped the handbag, luckily indoors, the contents spilling over a vast area, some still to be found. The hair mousse no good as deodorant, took ages to scrape it from armpits. The breakfast toast burnt, the last of the loaf. You get the picture.

So when D.O.T. wrote that Napoleon was the first president of France, those Historians amongst you will know he declared himself Emperor!

Nature Knows Best these dark mornings stay in bed and wait for things to get better D.O.T A very Happy Birthday to DOT for the 1st January

Flittabus needs YOU !

Volunteer drivers wanted!

Driving a Flittabus can be fun; it’s also very worthwhile.

We have 3 buses and 11 routes, driven (and managed) by over 30 men and women volunteers, providing scheduled services around Central Bedfordshire. ANYONE can use Flittabus but most of all we help many elderly people to remain independent.

If you can spare just one or two half days a month we would like to hear from you. Why not come for a trial drive & see if you like it?

Full support & training will be provided. To learn more please contact Chris Tarmu 01525 861940.

Note: New drivers do need to be under the age of 67

Help line for bus information 07960 388 111 or see www.flittabus.co.uk

THE WINGFIELD CLUB 37 Church St, Ampthill, MK45 2PL (01525) Bar - 403321 Office - 841736 thewingfieldclub@tiscali.co.uk

2019 MEMBERSHP IS NOW AVAILABLE

6 large HD screens showing all main sporting events

2019 MEMBERSHIP NOW AVAILABLE FROM THE BAR

Supreme pool table and spacious darts area

JUST HAND THE BARSTAFF YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD AND THE YEARLY FEE

FULL MEMBER …………………………………………………………..

SENIOR MEMBER………………………………………………………...

ASSOCIATE CARD………………………………………………………..

PASS CARD………………………………………………………………..

NEW MEMBERS JOINING FEE………………………………………….

REPLACEMENT MEMBERSHIP CARD (LOST CARDS)………………..

£10.00 £5.00 £3.50 £3.50 £3.00 £2.50

Large car park for members

NEW MEMBERS WELCOME Please fully complete a membership form and hand the money to The Bar staff, Your New Membership card will be posted to your address.

Competitively priced Drinks

Private parties catered for

Meeting rooms available

THE COMMITTEE AND STAFF WOULD LIKE TO WISH YOU ALL A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR. When responding to an advert please say you found it in The Fuddler!

Sunday Meat Raffle & Members Tote

New Members Welcome

Page 20

Your advertisement in The Fuddler is only a click away!

If you have decided that you too would like an advert in The Fuddler all you have to do to book your space is to send an email over to martin@thefuddler.com for all the details

With The Imp

1. ‘I’m a big fan of Doctor Who but I don’t watch it.’

2. ‘I can see things visually.’

3. ‘I had the chicken burger because beef can be burnt.’

4. ‘ You can ’t d e sign fingers.’

5. ‘Traffic only travels north in rush hour.’

6. ‘The population of this country is about 60,000.’

7. ‘30 days have October and September - what’s the other one?’

8. ‘One of those beers is nearer the end of the barrel than the other one.’

Thanks again Imp

With Great Aunt Althea Here we bring you a selection of things that were told to you that you promised yourself you would never pass on to your own kids!

Of course it won’t hurt.

Because I said so!

You wait till your Dad gets home.

We never had mobile phones/ play stations when we were young.

I never did that when I was your age.

No. I remember when ...

Take your coat off otherwise you won’t feel the benefit when you get outside.

You’ll poke somebody’s eye out with that.

Do you think money grows on trees?

You’re not going out looking like that!

Put your coat on - you’ll catch your death of cold.

You’d look after it if you had to pay for it.

Make sure you have clean underwear on in case you get run over.

That is not music - it’s just noise.

You don’t know you’re born.

When I was your age ...

Thanks for the memories!

Happy Birthday Tam for the 23rd January!!

Hello everybody! I am an actress who has just finished playing the part of a police officer in an exciting US cop series, I play one of three female homicide detectives who solve crimes while also dealing with their personal lives. Answer at the foot of the page.

Ampthill Park Hub Tel: 01525 840370

Ampthill Park Hub, Woburn Street, Ampthill MK45 2HX adjacent Ampthill Town Football Club

On Sunday 16th December 2018 we held our Christmas

Carol SingͲaͲlong and would like to thank Ampthill & Flitwick Churches for their support on the day.

We raised a total of £200.00 for our charities which are St. Andrew’s Church Restoration Fund, Ampthill and Leonard Cheshire (Agate House) Ampthill, who will be receiving £100 each.

ThankͲyou to all who attended & we look forward to seeing you soon.

‘HAPPY NEW YEAR’ Angela Griffin - Stevie Hall The Detail

Don’t forget - if you have missed an issue - you can catch up at www.thefuddler.com

Page 21

With Lauren Louella Boughalls Hello everyone and again a big welcome to another picture poser. Firstly many thanks to everybody who sent in an answer to last month’s challenge and congratulations and very well done to Mark, Rob, Pete and everyone else who correctly identified the old photograph of Silsoe, and once again many thanks to the reader who sent us the photograph.

Now for this month we have something a little different to keep you amused!

One of our readers has been out and about in Fuddlerland and has taken this i n t e r e s t i n g photograph which he thought he should share with us and therefore has been kind enough to it in.

And, many thanks.

But do you recognise it and where it might be?

NOW OPEN Come and discover Ampthill’s rich history and learn about the towns association with Henry VIII and why Kit Williams chose the town as the hiding place for the treasure of his 1979 book Masquerade.

If you think you know drop us an email to martin@thefuddler.com Answer next month!

The museum occupies part of the top floor of Ampthill Fireplaces showroom in Bedford Street and is open 6 days a week.

Admission is free

‘Possibly the smallest museum in the world’

RIDGMONT STATION HERITAGE CENTRE TEA ROOM FRESHLY MADE FOOD ...

CAFÉ MENU x A selection of teas, coffees

and soft drinks x Home made cake and scones x Cream teas are our speciality! x Please note we are closed on Mondays x SMALL

x Hot soups and jacket potatoes x A selection of fresh

sandwiches x Toasted paninis x Plus lots more! x Great value and a friendly service!

LOCAL TAKE-AWAY SERVICE AVAILABLE x Telephone 01525 287 120 or

mobile 07936 189 909 for pre-orders x Collection point for takeaway orders

BIRTHDAY PARTIES We can also cater for up to 16 people for a special Birthday Party!

RIDGMONT STATION | STATION ROAD | RIDGMONT BEDFORDSHIRE | MK43 OXP T: 01525 287 120 M: 07936 189909 Ridgmont Station Vintage Tearoom

Full disabled access, toilets and free car park

HOW TO FIND US: By rail alight at Ridgmont Station By road follow station signs from A507

When responding to an advert please say you found it in The Fuddler!

Page 22

Here we delve more into the whimsical, wacky and interesting world of Montgolfier: I asked a friend if it was him who I heard playing a mouthorgan He said ‘No, it may have been our Monica.’

I was taking an order in a shop. I said ‘Would you like six dozen?’ He said ‘No, send me nine dozen then we’ll have some when we haven’t got any.’

I get mail from friends living on a remote island in waterproof envelopes, The postman comes on a Friday by motor boat and as there is no pier they have to row out to meet him in a little rubber dinghy and hand over mail for posting and collect.

Sometimes in bad weather it can be 5 weeks to do the 4 mile trip.

I always use a fountain pen when writing letters and I wanted some blotting paper. I eventually found some in Great Missenden, Bucks, I noticed an advert the other day that it is possible to buy a watch that is right to the second in 118,000,000 years. How do they know?

I was born in a large country house in Yorkshire. Built in the early 1400’s it has a Priest hole 10ft x 6ft - quite big. We never knew it was there. 30 years later the new people found it. You have to go down into an L-shaped cellar. One way finished up at a brick wall. The other to a big double doored cupboard with shelves and contents. This was remove and behind it they found another 10ft of cellar with a hole in the brick arched roof which went up into the dairy and was covered with a square stone slab on which stood the farm butterchurn.

Happy Birthday Mr Hardie for the 3rd January and Mrs Miggins for the 2nd!

ote: n y r a i D

uddler F e r u s e Mak iled to a m e y p ment co e s i t r e v ad ler.com d d u f e h t martin@ me !! i t f o y t in plen

Don’t forget - if you have missed an issue - you can catch up at www.thefuddler.com

Page 23

Unfortunately we have not heard from Mammoth Man for the New Year with a tale or two of mischief he has

been up to over the holidays. No matter: we are sure we will receive an electronic missive from him in due course and we will bring it to you immediately!

Fancy doing something new and meeting some amazing people this year?

A local befriending charity is looking for volunteers to help make a real difference in the community!

R e s p i t e a t H o me V o l u n t e e r s a r e c u r r e n t l y recruiting befriending volunteers in Ampthill, Flitwick and the surrounding area.

This is your chance to make a positive and immediate difference to the lives of people living with life limiting illnesses and their carers in your local community.

If you have a couple of hours to spare each week or fortnight, enjoy spending time chatting and listening, have a sense of humour and want to meet some genuinely interesting and inspiring people then this an opportunity for you.

As part of our befriending team you’ll receive full training and support as we match you with one of our families who are looking for a little extra companionship and help to live well with illnesses.

As a volunteer you don’t have to have prior experience of a life limiting illness, but you do have to have warmth, reliability, empathy, common sense and a ready smile.

For more information about how to join our team contact Nicola Mills 01234 743063 or email: respiteathomevolunteers@aol.co.uk

JANUARY 2019 Health Walks Wednesdays 10.30am Free, no need to book. Most walks start at Reception but some elsewhere – see notice board or ring 01234 767037.

Volunteer Task - Millennium Country Park Thursday 10 January 9.30am to 3.30pm stephen.gascoyne@marstonvale.org or 01234 762610.

Learning Lunchtime Monday 14 January 11am to Noon Gardening Naturally & Other Stuff.

01234 767037 or www.marstonvale.org/events Gary Barlow Tribute.

Friday 18 January 7.30pm to 10pm £15 per ticket.

Info and booking at www.marstonvale.org/events Learning Lunchtime Monday 21 January 11am to Noon Birds in an English Village 01234 767037 or www.marstonvale.org/events Volunteer Task - Millennium Country Park Thursday 24 January 9.30am to 3.30pm stephen.gascoyne@marstonvale.org or 01234 762610.

Learning Lunchtime Monday 28 January 11am to Noon Warden Abbey - The Making of a Reconstruction Painting.

01234 767037 or www.marstonvale.org/events Volunteer Task - Grange Estate Tuesday 29 January 10am to 3.30pm darren.woodward@marstonvale.org or 01234 762603

FEBRUARY 2019 Sunday Stroll 3 February at 10.30am About 2 hours. Booking not required.

Free but donations welcome. 01234 767037

Learning Lunchtime Monday 4 February 11am to Noon Ghosts of the Vale 01234 767037 or www.marstonvale.org/events For a full list of events - see www.marstonvale.org/events

Short led walks, all welcome.

Need to get more active? This could be just the thing for you.

Walks last about an hour and a quarter (some hills). Walk at your own pace in a friendly group. It’s all free - just turn up.

Next walks - all start at 10.00am: 11th January 25th January 8th February

Wilstead, Whitworth Way car park Aspley Woods, Longslade Lane cp Flitvale Garden Centre, Westoning

For further information please contact: Lynda on 01234 740788 or at olivetree47@googlemail.com Or Laurie on 01525 403950 or at lalowe@btinternet.com or see http://ampthillhealthwalks.blogspot.co.uk When responding to an advert please say you found it in The Fuddler!

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