August Issue

Raising awareness of what’s on & where to find things locally

Issue 82 August 2021

www.onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk Baldock, Ashwell, Weston and surrounding villages

Let us help to free up your weekends

Welcome

to the August issue.

Summer truly has arrived now, in British style of course with a few downpours here and there to keep us on our toes. That being said, the sun has been shining and the heatwave is taking our staycations to a whole other level!

Fingers crossed the weather holds out for the rest of the summer. It's nice to see the kids out enjoying themselves after a long year and a half of little socialising.

Of course with the socialising, comes a lot of track and trace pings too apparently! Keep yourselves safe and hopefully you'll avoid that dreaded notification.

Talking of staycations, the stunning long horn cows are back at Ivel Springs for their own summer holiday. Pay them a visit on your next walk, they really are gorgeous and gentle giants. If you are passing through make sure you take all of your rubbish and doggy doo-doo with you.

If you're wondering what's coming up over the next few weeks and months get ready, there's plenty to keep you busy. The countdown to Balstock is officially on. Music and festival vibes will be taking over the town in September and we can't wait. The cycle challenge is also making a return very soon. It's a non competitive cycle course suitable for all ages and abilities with plenty of pubs on route! Fancy something active but not up for getting on your bike? The Baldock Rat Race 5k is also retuning! You can register online for your place now, the event is set up by the wonderful Samantha from Sports Therapy with all

proceeds going to Letchworth's Garden House Hospice.

Another heads up, if you haven't heard yet the Baldock Tesco petrol station will be closed for maintenance from 26th July - 9th August.

And in other news, St Mary's church is in need of some urgent repairs and needs your help. The church team are raising money to fund the essential work and keep this iconic part of the community in great condition. They have a Just Giving page set up for any donations your are able to offer to support the repairs.

Until next month

Paul & Jacqui info@onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk or 07973 788418

Disclaimer All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however On Our Doorstep Baldock cannot take any responsibility for the content of adverts or services provided by the advertisers.

Reproduction on whole or in part of this publication without prior permission from the publishers is strictly prohibited.

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Katy & Her Draws For those that don't know me, I am Katy Ma hews – one of the official fundraising team for the charity Feed Up Warm Up. FUWU is a local charity suppor ng those that are homeless, or at risk of homelessness – offering drop in sessions twice weekly, delivering food parcels to those in need in the community, as well as an outreach team that go out to individuals sleeping rough giving them supplies and offering advice on services available to them.

The charity gets no government funding and relies solely on dona ons from the public in order to carry out the incredible work that they do. Which is where I, and individuals like me, come in.

During Lockdown I started a Facebook group (Katy's Designer Draws) to raffle off designer handbags and the group very quickly grew, I now offer other items such as spa breaks, jewellery, Dyson air wraps, PlaySta on 5s, Xbox series Xs and plenty of other prizes. The group has over 4500 members and collec vely we have raised over £7500 for the charity. Last week I was in a

posi on to be able to use the money raised to purchase a van for the charity, to collect food and equipment for the drop in sessions, for the food deliveries to those unable to make it to the sessions, and to take the outreach team out to the referrals they get through.

We have lots more exci ng fundraising ideas in the pipeline; a skydive on September 18th where a team of 16 of us will be throwing ourselves out of a plane strapped to total strangers and I'm aiming to raise at least £1000 for FUWU as a result – the dona on page can be found at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/katyma hewsfuwu or using the QR code at the bo om. This will be followed by a charity golf day and auc on at Chesfield Downs Golf Club on 30th September.

We are looking for local businesses to sponsor holes on the day, there are different levels of sponsorship available to suit a range of budgets. There are also s ll a number of ckets available to a end the event – these are priced at £55 each for the full day (includes breakfast, 18 holes of golf and dinner).

The evening will have more raffle prizes, donated by local businesses, an auc on with some high-end prizes, celebrity guests, a DJ and general merriment for all!! There are a limited amount of evening only ckets available @ £35. If you think you would be interested in sponsorship/ ckets for the event or would like to donate a prize to help raise funds for this incredible cause, please do get in touch. My telephone number is 07771614528 and I would love to hear from you!

with over 35 years experience

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2021

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BALSTOCK Balstock Music Fes val – the unashamed and ferociously independent event that bewilders a whole town over 3 days – is due to go ahead on the 2nd weekend of September, 2021. This melodic ins tu on was halted last year due to …something or other! It will, however, be a somewhat abridged event, leaving out the ELR stage and High Street a rac ons in favour of the pubs and venues that sorely need the revenue.

Over the 10th, 11th and 12th of September over 160 bands, acous c acts, DJs and alterna ve entertainers will fill 10 venues in the aid of charity.

This year the Balstock commi ee has

chosen just one cause – that being the Baldock Beer fes vals Baldock Hardship fund , which was set up to support; individuals in our Community who are in need, perhaps through ill health or circumstances beyond their control and small underfunded, poorly supported groups who may not have their voice heard.

As well as rock, pop, reggae, country, folk, punk and ska music, the fes val also offers a Metal stage (not for the faint of heart) at the Victoria pub, a full weekend of Ibiza themed DJ sets at the Buffs Club and a Burlesque stage on Friday night at the White Lion.

All entry is FREE and all bands, acts,

Balstock Reps and organisers give their me for free in the aid of charity and good mes. So please do open up those piggy banks, work those QR codes or alterna ve dona on op ons and give generously.

The White Lion Stage is dedicated to the memory of Phil Hall, who was a much loved Baldock publican, local sports team sponsor and Balstock enthusiast. We all miss him dearly” All info on Balstock 2021 as well as pre orders for exclusive Balstock HOODIES can be found at www.balstock.co,uk G & the Balstock commi ee

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AUGUST

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East Meets West New Genesis G80 2021

By Tim Barnes-Clay - Follow on Instagram @tbarnsclay Yes, Genesis is a Bri sh band, but it's also a motor brand new to the UK. Hyundai's posh arm has been ushered in here with two models: the GV80 and the G80. It is the G80 saloon that I'm reviewing here.

Genesis wants its motors to be seen as credible - and I wager they will be. It will just take a lot of me – and when the me is right, the G80 will indeed be seen as a real alterna ve to the likes of BMW's 5 Series.

I got behind the wheel of the turbo infused 2.5-litre, 304PS saloon. It houses an eight-speed automa c cog changer which you operate via a rotary dial. Add all-wheel-drive trac on to the recipe, and 62mph arrives in a mere 6.0 seconds. 155mph is the Korean machine's maximum speed.

The petrol-powered unit starts up aggressively, but it soon chills once you're on the move.

The G80's handling is fulfilling rather than fun, which is what you need from a premium saloon. The vehicle is big, and it's only when you enter bends too enthusias cally that you become cognisant of its weigh ness.

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When it comes to the luxury side of things, Genesis is up there with the best. The G80's interior materials are all top quality, and I par cularly like the Nappa leather seats. Any metal you see in the car is real - and the same goes for the wood trim. There is no fake stuff here. This is a motor with a cabin equal to, if not be er than, the 5 Series'.

Genesis' switchgear is easy to operate, and the G80's seats are suppor ve and set high, so you and your passengers get a clear view out. Any saloon that gives you an authorita ve driving posi on is good in my book. The elevated sea ng makes you feel confident, and it's safer.

Space-wise, despite a slightly coupelike look, the Genesis G80 is a thoroughbred saloon - and comes with a 424-litre boot. That is not as spacious as the BMW 5's trunk, but it's plenty for an execu ve express that sits five-up.

As for running costs, the G80 does up to 31.2mpg, while emi ng 205g/km CO2. The claimed figures are fair, as, on my test circuit around Buckinghamshire, I got 28mpg. I wasn't exactly lightfooted for a lot of the journey, either.

There is no ques oning the high quality of the Korean automaker's cars.

Everything in the G80 feels well-made, and the finish of the saloon - inside and out is striking. That's no great shocker, though, as Hyundai is seen as a reliable name here in Britain. So, despite the fact Genesis won't want direct comparisons made with that marque, the Hyundai Motor Group is its parent company. Therefore, take a chill pill – I'd eat my office hat if the G80 turns out to be a pig.

Besides, the five-year plan that comes with all Genesis cars is enough to relax you. The G80 has a warranty for that period as well as half a decade's worth of roadside assistance and servicing.

What is more, you won't need to visit a dealer to purchase a G80 or get it maintained. You can't anyway; Genesis doesn't have a dealer network. Instead, the automaker has got a bunch of “Genesis Studios” located within shopping malls. And this is the most remarkable bit – you get a special Genesis Personal Assistant to sort your needs out - from test driving before you purchase, to servicing. The G80 saloon really does have "premium" embossed all over it.

Unsurprisingly, Genesis' G80 achieved the ul mate five-star score from Euro NCAP. So, if you're hun ng for a safe, high-class saloon, this car needs to be on your shopping list.

In summary, the G80 is a top introduc on to the Genesis brand. The company will have a challenge temp ng motorists from the usual German suspects, but I feel the Koreans will do it.

Success won't come overnight, though. The premium car market has

always been a tough nut to crack on this side of the globe.

Fast Facts Genesis G80 2.5T Luxury Line + as tested: Ÿ Max speed: 155mph Ÿ 0-62 mph: 6.0 secs Ÿ Combined mpg: 31.2 Ÿ Engine Layout:2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol Ÿ Max. power (PS): 304 Ÿ CO2: 205 g/km Ÿ Price: £47,950

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AUGUST

2021

9

Grass Seed Season

HEAT STROKE IN PETS As we enter the summer months and the temperatures begin to rise, our furry friends may begin to struggle with the heat. Heat stroke is a serious illness that can affect any of our beloved pets, and must be treated immediately by a Veterinary professional. Our pet's furry coats make it harder for them to cool down, however some animals may be prone to it more than others. These include flat-faced breeds, young or old animals, or pets with very thick fur. The signs vary between species but the most obvious signs are excessive pan ng, excessive drooling and lethargy. If your

pet begins to display one or more of these signs, then you should seek Veterinary assistance immediately.

The best way to protect your pet from heat stroke is to keep them cool and hydrated in warm weather. You should also avoid exercising your pets during the ho est part of the day, keep long and thick fur trimmed, and keep your pets at a healthy weight.

These will all help protect your beloved pet from heat stroke. For any further advise please contact us on 01763 242221 (for Royston Vet Centre) or on 01462 895579 (for Baldock Vet Centre)

Advertising from £20 per Issue info@onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk Raising awareness of what’s on & where to find things locally

www.onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk villages Baldock, Ashwell, Weston and surrounding

Raising awareness of what’ to find s on & where things locally

of what’s on & where to find things locally

Issue 74 December 2020

www.onourdoorstepbaldock.co. uk

Baldock, Ashwell, Weston and

surrounding villages

LOOKING AFTER YOUR PETS

AUGUST

2021

11

Sign up and more information: www.baldockeventsforum.org.uk

to If things are getting As restric ons are li ed, Samaritans of North Herts & Stevenage are returning into the community on 19 July for the first me since lockdown restric ons began in March 2020 to raise awareness of local support services as part of its Talk To Us campaign running throughout July. The campaign aims to remind the public that whatever they're facing, Samaritans volunteers are there to listen 24/7.

During the pandemic, Samaritans' helpline has been an important source of human connec on for some callers in the absence of their usual social contact and volunteers have clocked up more than one million hours listening to those struggling to cope during the pandemic.

The challenges that people face up and down the country have been felt even more deeply over the last year, as the pandemic has had a profound impact on the na on's mental health.

With restric ons li ing and con nued change, many people may find

you

returning to everyday life more challenging than others.

To help, volunteers from Samaritans of North Herts & Stevenage are restar ng their support work going out into the local community. On Monday 19 July 7.30-11.30am and Saturday 24 July 9.30-11.30am volunteers will be at Stevenage railway sta on to talk to locals about their services and provide emo onal support to anyone who may need it.

The volunteers will be joined by members of Govia Thameslink Railway and sta on staff.

Ilsa Haw n, Director of Samaritans of North Herts & Stevenage said: “The challenges that many people have faced because of the pandemic are con nuing and while the li ing of restric ons will be welcomed, it won't necessarily ease with restric ons li ing.

“At Samaritans of North Herts & Stevenage, we're so thrilled to be out within the community again and

suppor ng people. We know how powerful listening can be. Listening helps us build rela onships, be there for others and it can save lives. It's so important to reach out for a chat with someone you care about. Whether in person or virtually, it's just about taking me to really listen to another person which can in turn help them work through what's on their mind.”

Samaritans has worked in partnership with Network Rail and the wider rail industry for over 10 years, providing support and vital suicide preven on training to iden fy and approach vulnerable people and save lives. To date, more than 22,000 rail and Bri sh Transport Police staff have been trained.

To find out more informa on about Samaritans, or to make a dona on and find out other ways you can support Samaritans of North Herts & Stevenage please visit samaritans.org/hitchin or alterna vely you can donate by text: text SAMARITANS 3 to 70460 to donate £3.* Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, 24/7, 365 days a year, on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org.

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2021

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Stress & Skin Problems The more anxiety or stress a person is experiencing the more their thinking, feelings, symptoms and health will be affected including skin problems. Skin condi ons can affect our self-esteem and confidence especially when visible on the face or other exposed parts of the body, and can some mes cause a great deal of discomfort... Skin condi ons in general, are not life threatening but they can reduce our quality of life on a day-by-day basis. The skin is the body's largest and most visible organ and reacts to both external and internal s muli. We blush when we feel embarrassed or warm, sweat when we are hot, as well as secrete toxins and waste through the

skin. The skin serves many func ons and gives a good picture of our overall health. But when our health either physically, psychologically or both is imbalanced, a host of skin condi ons such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, pruritus (itching) and warts can arise. These skin condi ons can make us feel stressed and anxious which in turn, can exacerbate the skin condi on itself.

An ar cle wri en by physicians from Clinicalpsychiatry.com explains how chemicals released by the body during periods of stress can cause changes in the skin that leave it vulnerable to infec on, they suggest that non-drug interven ons such as medita on, psychotherapy and hypnotherapy may offer significant benefits to pa ents struggling with skin condi ons such as eczema, psoriasis and ur caria. It is thought that these therapies can help reduce stress levels, which are thought to exacerbate certain skin problems.

Clinical studies have demonstrated that psychological stress disrupts skin barrier func on and increases the severity of cutaneous infec ons, studies showed that hypnotherapy can stop pa ents scratching their eczema, thereby speeding up treatment and can even promote hair regrowth in alopecia pa ents.

Hypnosis communicates directly with the unconscious mind. The unconscious mind controls many of the processes that influence the immune system, such as the involuntary func ons of temperature regula on, respira on, metabolism, heart rate and blood flow etc., therefore, through hypnosis we can begin to make changes on a deep level, enhancing immunity and balancing other necessary func ons.

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During Hypnosis where you are induced into a comfortable state of relaxa on, blood pressure is reduced, immune func on is increased, sugges ons are made to desensi se any soreness and itching, resolve any underlying emo onal causes, reduce stress and anxiety by reframing thoughts and feelings so that stressful situa ons are dealt with more effec vely, thus reducing the possibility of reoccurrence of the skin disorder.

You should see your doctor if you have a new skin condi on to get a diagnosis. This is because some skin condi ons are a side effect of medica on.

Other skin condi ons need an bio cs or an -fungal creams. Some skin condi ons are caused by a systemic condi on like shingles or measles. There may also be a need to protect others if your skin condi on is infec ous. Any visual changes to your skin such as any changes to a mole or if a mole becomes itchy.

Remember hypnotherapists don't diagnose or claim to cure although people can get amazing results.

Kim Holloway www.total-therapy.co.uk

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Walking Netball Women in Baldock have started playing Walking Netball for the fun, laughter and camaraderie the social session brings, as much as the numerous health benefits on offer. It can give those who feel isolated an outlet and provide an ac vity for those who do not deem themselves fit enough to run anymore.

Walking Netball has been designed so that anyone can play it regardless of age or fitness level. Walking Netball is a slower version of the game we all love - it is netball, but at a walking pace and involves no running or jumping so it's easier on your muscles and joints. learn some old skills as most people haven't played since their schooldays. We have so much fun and everyone leaves with smiles on their faces'

Walking Netball sessions are designed to be fun and flexible, and largely follow the same formats as any other netball session, including a warm-up, mini-games and drills followed by a friendly game.

Lucy Prestedge (Community Coach for England Netball), says 'These ladies have made lifelong friendships, and I think most of them come along for the chat and the cup of tea a erwards more than the Netball, which is what it's all about. It's also great to see them re-There are currently Walking Netball groups at Avenue Park in Baldock, Wednesdays 10-11am and Bancro Recrea on Ground in Hitchin, Thursdays 7-8pm. To find out more, and to book a place, please contact Lucy 07834500189 / Lucy.Prestedge@englandnetball.co.uk

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AUGUST

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Baldock Gardens

By Graham Tapp August 2021 Late July into early August is when everyone should be enjoying their herbaceous borders, pots and baskets.

We, the growers, now start looking for new plants for you to grow next year. We all get invites to various production nurseries, some with extensive display gardens.

As you all know, the last year has been very different due to Covid and the national lockdown, meaning all any of us could do is refer to catalogues, purchase history and guesswork. Next year will be different.

When out viewing these plant trials, we have to decide on the market we are growing for, the expected sale dates. The plant colours are problematic, like Christmas decorations and wallpaper; they follow the clothing fashion what you see on the catwalk will have significant sway on the colours in your flower bed's borders and basket's.

Plant breeders cannot produce new plants and colours fast enough to follow the catwalk that closely, but we, as grower retailers, can use what they make available to us to do that for you.

Have you ever wondered why you have chosen that colour hanging basket or colour of flower bed?

It's because lots of very clever people on the marketing side of the plant distribution companies have got it all worked out. We grower retailers can go along to trial days and see the colours for the next few years all planted out with the current year's catalogue set out similarly.

We have to work out what we can sell without waste; we also need to work out how to schedule the planting / potting times to fit sales dates.

The growing side does have complications in that we have no control over the weather. Not just is it dry? is it wet? But we have to worry about light levels, temperature, hot or cold, late frosts. Watering is used as a way of controlling plant growth and maturity times. I expect you have been into a garden centre and thought to yourself that those plants, although not looking poorly, could do with a bit more water.

Well, it's not because the operator is lazy.

It is a technique used to prolong the sales time and prevent them over flowering on the sales bench; after all, we want them to flower in your garden.

Feeds are another essential way we can control plant growth and flowering times.

In days gone by, one of the few grades of compost available was mixed with the desired fertiliser. Usually, a granular type and the containers were filled, and the plants planted, that was it until a top dressing was applied later on. Granular fertilisers are comparatively crude compared with today's slow-release types.

They would release most of their fertiliser all in one go, provoking instant and rapid plant growth if too warm or damage to new root systems if cold, sometimes killing the plants.

These days compost and feeds are scientifically worked out and produced to fine tolerances.

We now have a compost type and grade for just about every crop we could think of; fertilisers now have controlled-release formulations. That means that the particular formulation required for a specific crop is encased in a special coating. This coating has minute holes; these holes open and close depending on the ambient temperature. If it's cold, no feed will be released; if the temperature rises, the holes open more and allow more fertiliser out for the plants.

I have had many customers asking what the tiny beige coloured beads found in their plant pots are? I can tell you that most times, it will be the fertiliser cases.

Not anything more sinister.

Other ways of controlling plant growth and flowering times are the unique covers we use over or building frames. When you come into our garden centre, you see not just a plastic sheet stretched over the frames but a scientifically researched film.

The films we use are three or four layers co-extruded and welded together; each film layer does a particular job.

Firstly the covers have to comply with some specific fire regulations. They have to be fire-resistant, not melt and drip burning plastic on everyone, not propagate the fire and at the same time be able to melt a hole large enough to let the smoke of the fire out, so self-ventilating.

The layers are different for every specific sheet; some are clear, some are white, others are pink, red, or green.

The colours promote or reduce the growth of specific crops; Some pests do not like some colours and can reduce their reproduction, reducing the reliance on chemicals.

Other layers are for strength; some are for reducing condensation dripping onto the plants and us; another would be to distribute the suns rays evenly. The specialist covers we use are white opaque and reduce the sun's light by 20 and 30 per cent; the higher reduction is used on the shrub and herbaceous sales area to extend the sales time of the plants.

You will have noticed that we have wind up vents on the side of the retail buildings. These are to control the air temperature within the building and keep the wind out. Some days you might think the temperature is uncomfortable hot in the tunnels; this may be because we have to protect the plants from the damaging wind we get on our site. You can see it's all about balancing the effect against benefit against cost.

Back to the plants, the cost of the plugs or bare-root plants are a huge consideration for the large contract growers; for most smaller growers and us, it is a benefit. I will explain; the large growers who contract grow for Supermarkets and the big Garden Centres have extremely tight financial limits to work within. They have to deliver on time and to budget. The buyers dictate the plants grown, the pots, and trays to fit into sales and delivery systems and price points. So they don't always have the leading edge plants we can grow. We have none of those controls, so we can grow and supply you with the very best and newest varieties.

We can use the best compost, buy the latest varieties and whatever pots or trays that we think will allow your plants to grow to their best.

Enjoy your plants this summer.

Cheers

Graham

AUGUST

2021

19

ROGERSONS REMOVALS Happy 7th Birthday

zachary

6th August

Lots of Love from all your Family x

Happy Birthday

Janet Calver LAWN CUTTING HEDGE CUTTING LANDSCAPING PATIOS

2nd August

Best wishes from Carol Princess Margaret

ASHWELL

WESTON

SAMUEL

4 Lots of Love orge Mum, Dad & Ge

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

21st August

th

HAPPY 4 BIRTHDAY

OLA Tierney

Love from Mummy & Daddy 25th August

Letchworth rugby club who are based on the BALDOCK side of the Garden City ( rear of leisure centre ) and who draw a large amount of their talent from our fair town are looking forward to an exci ng season and training for both seniors and juniors has already recommenced .

The club now has probably the best coaching set up in its en re history which stretches back 96 years. Headed up by Baz Basra the former Bedford and Northampton player who has come from Na onal League Her ord . His reputa on is well known throughout the county as a highly respected tac cian. He is assisted

by Tom Jubb a former championship player with Coventry who started his career at Letchworth and Kieron Davies who has also played at high-level before finishing his last five seasons at Legends Lane.

Local boxing hero Tom Ansell has undertaken the fitness training for the seniors and Jimmy Tirrell the England

under 20s coach is also doing sessions throughout the season.

Lower down Mar n Calver and Richard Bigden are looking a er the Wanderers (social rugby) whilst Nick Winwood is in charge of this years Colts. This was the team which as the under 17s had reached the county final before Covid intervened and they were unable to play their final match. However the lads have stayed together and the numbers bode well for future senior teams.

The mixed learning disability side Braveherts are also welcoming recruits of either gender for their fi eenth season and are very much leading lights na onally for mixed ability rugby.

Perhaps the biggest success story during Lockdown, has been the ladies sec on which has grown from a small group star ng a fitness training group on a Wednesday evening to a fully fledged squad with over thirty members and a full fixture list for the coming season.

Minis start from the age of 5 for both boys and girls all the way up to 18 and it is never too early or late to join up.

Meanwhile off the pitch having now refurbished clubhouse changing rooms and car park there are further plans for a spectacular viewing gallery /coffee bar and also extra parking at the Baldock Road end of the ground.

WHAT WE DO

President Brian BURKE said “ Thanks to astute financial management from our treasurer and chairman and also the generosity of local government and rugby union grants the club is in a stable financial situa on We intend to u lise these resources wisely in improving the infrastructure and making our club even more welcoming to families and local people who may not have come across rugby football before We run an increasing number of social events including dances and fund raisers and the club is being increasingly hired out for weddings and other birthday par es by the general public. “ Having just received the fixture list for the coming season the coaching staff are under no illusions as to the toughness of the coming games with old rivals Hemel Hempstead, Fullerians ,Priorians Datchworth and Ruislip all likely to give s ff opposi on. The first home game is on Sept 25th against Datchworth kick off at 3 pm admission is free and the fun is mighty !

For those who may be interested in joining in in any sec on here are the contact numbers Senior Rugby Baz Basra 07950660401 Mar n Calver 07725953413 (wanderers) Colts and Braveherts Nick Winwood 07972417221 Juniors 13s to 17s Dave “ Smiler” Cooper 07711160858 Mini Sec on Danny Ryall 07786360212 Ladies Sec on Elisa Luggeri 07880714400

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The Gardening Gnomes

Hi we are the Gardening Gnomes. We are two sixth form business studies students from the Knights Templar School and we have set up our own gardening and odd job business for the summer. It started when we found it difficult to find work during the holidays. We no ced that some small communal areas where we live were looking overgrown and started to strim and dy these areas along with gardens belonging to our families.

We had some leaflets printed and offered services such as grass cu ng, strimming, weeding and plan ng etc. We also paint/treat fences and sheds and will clean cars and pa os as well. We have our own basic equipment but can use the

customers' lawnmowers and jet washers.

We can use sit-on lawn mowers and have cut large areas of grass as well as smaller gardens. We cover Baldock and Bygrave.

We have already successfully completed several jobs and have received excellent feedback from all our customers and are looking to carrying out lots more work over the rest of the school holidays.

If you're looking to have just a small garden died or have a larger project that you need help with then just give us a call on 07709 843728 or email gardeningGnomes@outlook.com 5% of our earnings will go to a charity which empowers girls and women in Nepal through travel and educa on.

Best wishes Tom and Rory.

Advertise in our next issue from £20

Chiropodist

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IAN SIMPSON Carpentry and Joinery All aspects of carpentry work undertaken Kitchen, Bedrooms, Doors, Windows

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Baldock, Ashwell, Weston and

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Free estimates Please call 01462 851695 or 07967162448 E-mail ij_simpson@hotmail.com

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4 Sun Street, Baldock. Sg7 6QA 2c St Francis Way, Shefford. Sg17 5DZ

Lisa

Lots of love on yo b thday August 1st, Mum & Mike x

Rory Tierney

2

18th August

HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY

HENRY 3rd August

We love you lots and lots, Mummy, Daddy & Jake xxx Happy 4th Birthday

AVA HARWOOD 1st August

Lots of love, Mummy, Daddy, Amelia and Harry x

Lauren Cann

Lots of love John

Tasha, Jodie, Ronan, Harley, Geoff & Gav x 24

AUGUST

2021

What If? I've been suffering a li le with the old writer's block. I would imagine that if I got out a li le more, I wouldn't have this issue, but what with a world wide pandemic going on for the past 18 months, I've not had much opportunity to expand my horizons.

I found myself staring at an empty word document 3 days past my deadline. There I was tapping away at the keys spewing complete and u er rubbish (some would ask “what's new”) when a 'hurry it up' text was received by our lovely editor. A er admi ng my dilemma, he replied with a couple of sugges ons. One from Jacqui, one from Paul. Jacqui's sugges on immediately piqued my interest while I thought Paul's might be compensa ng for something. Anyway, here goes, see if you can guess who asked which ques on.

If you could live your life again, what changes would you make?

The trouble with this ques on is that if you change anything, then your whole world changes. I think there is a name for it, The Bu erfly Effect. If you change just the niest of things, then everything changes from that point. So, the answer to this should be nothing shouldn't it?

In the spirit of the ques on, I will answer with… nothing big. If I had not got married, I wouldn't have my kids. If I had not got divorced, my kids wouldn't be the fabulous people they are, and I wouldn't have the mental strength that I have. Everything I have done in my life has led to the person I am today. On the whole, I quite like myself and each 'thing' horrid or not that has happened to me, has led me to this place. If they hadn't happened, I'd be someone else.

I'm undecided about the whole school thing. I could have been a be er student.

Hindsight allows me to see the waste caused by my belligerent, rude and frankly quite hideous behavior. But if I had been an A* student and gone on to university, then I wouldn't have married the man I did and around we go again.

So maybe the change I'd make in educa on is I'd go back to it sooner, not leave it un l I was in my fi ies.

The small things I would change. I wouldn't buy that BMW X5. It was a vanity buy that I couldn't afford and didn't need, I would steer clear of a certain car dealer in Hitchin (that one ended up in court) I would have brought that Triumph Domino when I was twenty, I feel I missed out.

I wish I hadn't fallen asleep at a Santana concert, or been generally blinkered in my musical taste when I was a teen. I would listen to heavy metal and rock and roll and not much else. I regret not finding Puccini and Van Morrison much sooner than I did.

There are definitely some men that I would never meet if I had my me again, most people bring something of value to your life (good and bad) but there have been a few men that neither added or subtracted from my life and so were just a pointless waste of my energy (I'm not bi er).

I would travel more without a doubt, have more confidence in myself and spend more me in a pub garden with friends and good music.

If money was no object, what car would I have?

Well, if money was no object, I wouldn't have a car. I'd hire a chauffeur with his own car.

I do love to drive though, some mes there is nothing be er than ge ng on a fast road with a reasonably fast car, cranking up the 70's Soul or Disco and le ng your inner Diva out for a bit of a spin. Therefore, on the occasions that I want to drive myself, I would hire a different car each me. Perhaps a conver ble BMW for whizzing along the A55 in Wales. This par cular drive is so good for the soul, I'd do it every day if I could.

If I was driving across Europe, I'd plump for a Merc Conver ble. Are you sensing a theme? As money is no object, I'd have a different conver ble for each country.

OO! And one of them humungous RV's to take me across America and Australia, just because I can.

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2021

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Screen this months new releases

Jungle Cruise

STILLWATER Out 6th August

Out 1st August It’s an action adventure movie based loosely on the classic Disney theme park ride. In the early 1900s, Dr. Lily Houghton hires skipper Frank Wolff to guide her and her brother, down the Amazon in search of a priceless mysterious tree with the power to heal. Their journey through uncharted territory proves full of danger at every turn: poisonous snakes, ferocious wild beasts, and another team of humans determined to find the tree first.

Matt Damon plays Bill Baker an American oil-rig roughneck travels to Marseille, France, to visit his estranged daughter in prison.

Allison’s a young woman who’s been convicted of murdering her girlfriend while studying abroad. Confronted with language barriers, cultural differences and a complicated legal system, he soon builds a new life for himself as he makes it his personal mission to exonerate her. Will he save the day?

Certificate PG

Certificate 18

Running Time 127 mins

Running Time 140 mins

‘From August 2021 we are shutting the doors in Mansfield Road and will be working from 16 Hurst Close, Baldock SG7 6TL Appointments only’ Please call 07938509672 for more details and to book

PAW PATROL

FREE GUY

Out 13th August

Out 13th August

The PAW Patrol is on a roll! When their biggest rival, Humdinger, becomes Mayor of Adventure City and starts wreaking havoc, Ryder and everyone’s favourite heroic pups kick into high gear to face the challenge head on. While one pup must face his past in Adventure City, the team finds help from a new ally, the savvy dachshund Liberty.

Together, armed with exciting new gadgets and gear, the PAW Patrol fights to save Adventure City!

Free Guy is an action comedy set in a video game that's similar to Grand Theft Auto. After programmers Milly and Keys insert a modification into the game, Guy, a bank teller in the game who's a non-playable character, realizes that his world isn't as real as it seems. But Guy's newfound enlightenment may be short lived, as Free City's developers have decided to take the game offline. Guy makes it his mission to save the game and all his friends.

Certificate U

Certificate PG

Running Time 128 mins

www.sewingbs.co.uk

Running Time 115 mins Answer-phone on both numbers & will return all calls

AUGUST

2021

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AUGUST

2021

Slimming Wld Recipe Supplied by

Sandra Lloyd

Shish kebabs Lean minced lamb is blended to a paste with yogurt, spices and fresh coriander, then moulded around the skewers to make tasty kebabs.

Ingredients 1 garlic clove, peeled and chopped 2 level tbsp gram flour Low calorie cooking spray 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp mild or medium chilli powder 1 tsp ground cumin Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1.5cm cube ginger, peeled and chopped A small bunch coriander leaves, stalks removed and chopped Ÿ 500g lamb mince (approx. 20% fat) Ÿ 2 tbsp fat-free natural yogurt Ÿ 1 tsp garam masala Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Method 1. Put the ginger and garlic in a food processor with the lamb. Add the chopped coriander, amchoor or lemon juice, spices, flour and yogurt and blend to a paste. Transfer to a bowl and season well with salt and pepper.

2. Preheat the grill. Divide the mixture into 8 portions and mould each into a sausage around a metal skewer. Spray with low calorie cooking spray and grill for 8-10 minutes, turning once. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and sprinkled with chopped coriander.

Ballet Classes for Adults -with a qualied, experienced teacherat two venues in Baldock

Starting 6th September northhertsballet@gmail.com

Charlotte Fairbrother ARAD, ANATD, BA, Dip Tchg

AUGUST

2021

29

M. 07884 430741 E. claire@goodridgeaccountants.co.uk W. www.goodridgeaccountants.co.uk

All Boiler Maintenance, Serving & Repairs

30

AUGUST

2021

Braun LE03 – High End Audio for Your Home

This month I have been reviewed the LE03 Speaker from Braun.

I have used quite a few smart speakers over the years, so when I received the Braun LE03 Speaker, I was intrigued to find out more. Out of the box, you can see that the speaker isn't aimed at the smart assistant market as it is both high end and reassuringly weighty, but it also retains the smart speaker func onality with its minimalist design approach.

The speaker is controlled by either Google Voice (configured from your Android or iPhone), play pause, volume and 'privacy' bu on (which switches off the listening func on). It can also be connected by Bluetooth pairing.

The speaker connects to the internet

by WiFi, this pairing is set up by Google Home app, which once set up, seamlessly sits alongside your other Google Devices ready to answer ques ons, play music or connect to Chromecast compa ble TV's. If you are looking for finer tuning, you can also install the Braun app which gives greater control.

Set up is very straigh orward, and once up and running, I was happily playing my favourite tunes and my daughter was equally happy to ask Google plenty of ques ons. Everything works in a similar fashion to using Google Assistant on your phone or indeed Alexa.

For the audiophiles amongst you, the LE03 contains a custom designed 3.5” 'high-excursion fast-transient' woofer with NdFe motor, a Full-range 1.5“ Balanced Mode Radiator drive unit, a Race track/quadra c 5” x 3” Customised passive radiator all powered by a Monolithic class-D power amplifier. (I did say this was for the audiophiles).

The speaker can also be paired with further LE range speakers to give you a full mul room experience.

The sound quality was mind-blowing, bass was there when you needed it and vocals were clear. It really is a very good system and probably warrants the price tag of £349 The Braun LE03 is really worth a look if you are on the hunt for a capable speaker and want to spend a li le bit more for the quality.

Highly recommended!!

See you next month, keep safe.

Matt WWW.THEGADGETMAN.ORG.UK

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Love Parks Week To celebrate the launch of Love Parks Week 2021 councillors and FoNC volunteers rolled up their sleeves and worked together to cut back brambles alongside the wildflower meadow on Letchworth's Norton Common Local Nature Reserve. They also helped to dig out dead tree roots – all part of essen al ongoing habitat management work to care for the site.

Councillor Elizabeth Dennis-Harburg, Leader of the Council, Councillor Steve Jarvis – NHDC Execu ve Member Environment, and Letchworth Ward Members Councillor Daniel Allen, Councillor Amy Allen and Councillor Sean Prendergast, became honorary FoNC members for the day, helping to highlight different ways we can look a er and love our local parks and green spaces.

Love Parks Week (23 July – 1 August) is a na onal campaign run by Keep Britain Tidy, encouraging people across the UK to enjoy their local parks, and to take

good care of these precious areas for both people and wildlife to enjoy.

Unfortunately, parks and nature reserves across North Herts have seen a huge increase in li ering in recent years.

Since 2014, the volume of li er removed from parks in the district has increased by 128%. The issue of li ering has reached a peak since the start of the pandemic, which has encouraged more people to use local parks but in turn, increased the amount of li er being dropped in parks and nature reserves.

John Baskerville, Secretary of the FoNC commi ee said: “It is great to have some of our Councillors joining us at one of our conserva on working par es. Norton Common is at the heart of our local community, and our Friends of Norton Common group is made up of local volunteers who regularly give their me to help care for the park. We find it very rewarding and urge everyone to get involved in caring for their local parks to help ensure the future of local green spaces for future genera ons to come.”

Cllr Steve Jarvis, NHDC Execu ve Member – Environment said: “Parks and nature reserves are there for everyone to enjoy, but we all need to

be responsible when visi ng them, by either pu ng li er in a bin or by taking it home. Volunteering some me to help care for them is a great way to help keep our parks and natures reserves in good condi on. What a great experience we all had today, really ge ng hands-on helping to look a er the Common. Thank you to FoNC for giving us the opportunity to volunteer with them”.

To find out more about parks and nature reserves in North Herts visit: www.north-herts.gov.uk/home/parksand-openspaces-nature-reserves-andwoodlands for informa on on the Friends of Norton Common and their ac vi es, including up and coming details of their annual Open Mee ng on 13 September, visit their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/friendsofnortoncom mon.

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August Gallery

Please send your local snaps new or old to our facebook page or email info@onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk Saturday Uboot on Clothall Road - Simon Holtom

'Ted and maisy enjoying the river Ouse'

Cats and Rainbows Liz Dean

What a view -Becca Townsend Liz Dean

The newly wed Blows & Nan

Taken at Ivel springs - D. Armes

Matthew Bartlett

Lisa O'Gorman Socks eyeing up a squirrel - Amy Felce

Amy Felce

Young Hattie admiring the beautiful rainbow 34

AUGUST

2021

Useful numbers Advice Citizen’s Advice Bureau Trading Standards Advice Samaritans

03444 111444 0300 300 8136 116 123

Councils North Hertfordshire District

01462 474000

Doctors Baldock Surgery

01462 892458

Dentist Victoria Place Dental Surgery

01763 313869

Emergency Utilities Gas Emergency Electric power cut

0800 111 999 0800 7838838

Hospitals Lister Hospital Queen Elizabeth 2 EMERGENCY HEALTH

01438 314333 01707 328111 111

Library Baldock Library

0300 123 4049

Police Police

01707 354000

Schools Knights Templar Hartseld St Johns St Marys Infants St Marys Juniors Brandles

01462 620700 01462 895267 01462 892478 01462 892347 01462 892156 01462 892189

Travel Arriva Buses National Rail Enquires National Bus line

08701 201088 03457 484950 0870 6082608

Vets Baldock Veterinary Centre

01462 895579

Nurseries Weston Way Nursery Merry Go Round Peanuts Preschool

01462 892172 01462 896322 07736 124327

Play Groups Magic Moments Merry Go Round

07709 618434 01462 896322

Plumbers Maben PE James

07949 120911 07816 586777

Window & Door repairs JML Windows Repairs Warrens Windows

01438 906300 01462 261401

Florist Blooms of Baldock

07747 195325

Locksmith Lock and Glaze

07737885528

Mobile Hair Dresser Hair By Jacqui

07973 788418

Funeral Directors Shires - CPJ Field Baldock

01462 491149

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2021

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