June 2017

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

Issue 34 June

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

Welcome To the third anniversary issue of On Our Doorstep.

Hopefully everyone is starting to to enjoy the warmer days that are starting to peek through. Grass cutting season is definitely upon us, if you are out in the garden over the coming weeks be sure to check in with Graham Tapp's tips and topic of the month on page 21.

The Baldock Festival went off without a hitch and was another successful year. I must say, huge congratulations are in order for the team who put so much time and effort into organising the whole event. A particular highlight for me was the classic car show that saw the high street brimming with breathtaking motors and car enthusiasts.

We have a few photos to share with you courtesy of 6 year old Noah Cowell??? who was snapping images of his favourites on the day.

The next big event to take the High Street by storm is the Big Lunch! Taking place on Father's Day this year there is no better way to get the whole family together for some fun in the sun(fingers crossed). If you haven't got your tickets yet you can find out more on page 6.

Also hoping for some sun is our youngest who is heading off on her first big school trip this week - PGL (Parents Get Lost as I have been told). Year 6 at Hartsfield school will be spending a week in Lincolnshire enjoying an abundance of activities and adventures.

There's has been a lot of excitement leading up to the trip post SAT assessments, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all the teachers involved good luck.

Meanwhile secondary school students are just beginning there exams. GCSEs kicked off towards the end of May and will continue right through June as will the AS and A level exams. Time to start looking forward to Summer Holidays once they're over!

Lastly, the Baldock Cycle Challenge is coming up in July for all the keen cyclists or anyone fancy a nice ride.

Online registration is now open if you are interested, get your friends and family together and make a day of it or just rally the troops for support on the day or to keep you motivated while preparing in the lead up to the big day.

Best Wishes

Paul & Jacqui info@onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk

Jacqui Calver 07973 788418

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Busy Baldock Beavers The Beavers have been very busy for the past few weeks. Shrove Tuesday, as always, was exciting, hot and- in a word – delicious!

The beavers were helped to cook and flip their pancakes but needed no help eating them as they piled on sugar, lemon, syrup and Nutella. Sticky fingers means happy beavers!

The following week the beavers looked at safety around the house and in a public area. They all agreed that the kitchen was the most unsafe room in the house after discussing the dangers that are there. Carrying on the theme of safety, the beavers ventured from the safety of the scout hut to the concrete jungle of Baldock. As well as looking for any dangers around the town they completed an A-Z of things they could see, earning lodge points the more obscure ones. Even the difficult letters had all been spotted!

With Mother's Day nearing the beavers made their gifts with love and affection. Jars of bath crystals were assembled with some beautiful colours and patterns appearing amongst the jars. They were finished off with a ribbon and a small wooden spoon to get the crystals out!

In early April, our colonies once again went along to the annual Letchworth and Baldock District Gang Show to cheer on the older cubs, scouts, brownies and guides in 'Riding along on the crest of the wave' – lots of fun was

had by all, and ice-creams were especially enjoyed.

On St George's Day, our beavers joined the rest of the beavers, cubs and scouts in the Letchworth and Baldock district for the annual parade, starting in Howard Gardens. They looked so smart in their turquoise uniforms and they behaved beautifully – a real credit to themselves, their parents and the Scouting movement.

And the sun shone for us too!

Rachel Goward, D of E helper

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A great weekend of events drew the Baldock Festival to a close on the weekend of Sat 13th & Sun 14th May, including the Street Fair and Classic Car Show. The weather was good, events well attended and great fun had by all. Hats off to the Festival Committee and all involved in putting on such a great programme of events this year – I'm sure all the people of Baldock extend a very big thank you.

And that includes to the wonderful staff at the Community Centre who do such a great job managing ticket sales amongst many other things. At the time of writing there are still one or two events still to come that fall under the Festival banner, including Sounds of Baldock (which, by the time you read this, I hope you thoroughly enjoyed!).

Also a big pat on the back to Brian Burke for organising a fantastic Baldock Fleadh this year.

There were upwards of 70 musicians and singers playing and entertaining up and down the High Street pubs on the first bank holiday in May. The Fleadh is now firmly enshrined as part of the Baldock Festival and Brian hopes that it will continue to grow in the next few years, as I'm sure it will.

Being involved in organising community events such as these is so rewarding, and perhaps you want to get involved or may be set up a new event such as a Food Festival in Baldock which seems a popular idea. If so please get in touch as we can support you with things like start up funding and engagement with local authorities. Contact us by emailing info@baldockevents.co.uk.

Look out for Baldock's Big Lunch on the High Street, which this year takes place on Sun 18th June.

Tickets are now available from the Community Centre, Taste Café and White Lion. And if like me you're a rugby nut the chances are you are a player, supporter or volunteer at our local club, Letchworth. They have a great family fun day lined up for Sun 24th June – find out more on the club's website or facebook page. The Fireside Summer Festival starts on the 28th June in our neighbouring village of Weston – find out what's in store at www.firesidefestival.org And finally the Baldock Cycle Challenge is back on Sun 23rd July, a chance to explore the beautiful parishes and countryside that surround the town. There are two loops, each approx. 30 miles each, one starting in the morning, one in the afternoon – or you can do both!

Find out more at www.baldockcycle.co.uk Richard Sell, Baldock Events Forum

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Our very fit Teaching Assistant, Mrs Fox, completed the London Marathon in 4 hours 55 minutes and raised over £250, in school, for the Multiple Sclerosis Centre in Letchworth.

She chatted to the children in their classes and showed them her medal. We are all very proud of her. . The children have all been working hard and this has included the Year 1 children walking down to the local park as part of their geography topic.

We are also proud to announce that the school will have after school provision from September. 'Jousters' is an successful company that already operates out of several other schools in Hertfordshire and is looking forward to adding St Mary's Infant and Junior School into its family.

As the summer term gets well under way we are busy making preparations for our Schools' Grounds Week, Summer Fair, Sport's Day, and Transition day. The school will have an Open Evening on Thursday 13th July 4.306.00pm. This provides an opportunity for children and parents to visit current teachers and also visit their new classroom and new teacher. We always really look forward to meeting those families whose children are joining us in September.

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Twelve years ago I managed to get onto the property ladder with the help of a government backed scheme that was available at the me. I have been privileged enough to call Baldock my home ever since.

I am walking distance from fantas c local shops, pubs, restaurants, a train sta on, brilliant local businesses and a local community any neighbourhood would be lucky to have. It is however becoming increasingly difficult for first me buyers to afford to buy in the local area, partly due to the steady rise in property prices that the UK has seen in recent years, but also due to the popularity of our wonderful towns and villages pushing prices up ever further.

New build proper es are cropping up frequently, and although I'm sure a percentage will be aimed at the first- me buyer market, the sums of money being asked for and the perceived deposits can be eye watering.

The bank of Mum and Dad is becoming an ever more vital source of funds for first me buyers taking that ini al step onto the property ladder, but it is not the only op on…

The Government currently has a number of ini a ves available to help first me buyers; one in par cular dedicated to new builds. With the Help to Buy Equity Loan scheme, the Government can lend up to 20% of the price of a new-build property so that the buyer only needs to provide a 5% cash deposit and source a 75% mortgage for the rest.

I urge anyone struggling to get onto the property ladder to look into these schemes at www.helptobuy.gov.uk or speak to a qualified adviser. The local community is richer for its diversity and encouraging the first- me buyer demographic into the area could help generate new local businesses, consumers, volunteers, friends and much more.

David Titherington CeMAP - Mortgage Adviser Templar Mortgage Solu ons Ltd Sol5609

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Once again the High Street came alive for Baldocks’ very own classic car show.

A huge collection of vehicles were on display, including an AC Cobra, a fleet of Triumphs’ and a beautiful bright red Route Master double decker bus. If I had to pick a favourite I’d be torn between the gorgeous E Type Jaguar and a stunning Tr6 that caught my eye, both well out of my league.

At the other end of the town, there was a fantastic display of motorcycles for those who favour a two wheeler. Again, there was something for everyone - classics, customs and a few sports bikes.

The Baldock Scouts were on hand throughout the day keeping everyone well fed and looked after.

On our travels we bumped into a budding young photographer, 6 year old Noah Cowell, taking photos of his favourites. He kindly shared them with us to feature in this issue and can be seen above.

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End of SAT’S Celebrations News From Sandon JMI School We have been even busier than usual in recent weeks.

Our Year Six pupils joined ten and eleven year olds all around the country to sit their SATs. We were so impressed by the way they faced this challenge. They came in earlier than usual to enjoy a hearty breakfast and then tackled each paper with optimistic determination. During SATs week we also had a visit from Mrs Fiona Webb of Ofsted.

She was with us for a day and closely observed many aspects of school organisation. She was very impressed with behaviour and attitudes to learning throughout the school. The day went well and our team worked together to demonstrate our ethos and values.

Year 5 and 6 have been to Belchamps Scouting Activity Centre near Southend-On-Sea for a four night stay. They showed great responsibility and resilience over the week, coping well with being away from home and looking after their possessions. They tried many different activities including climbing, abseiling, crate stacking, geocaching and den building. This trip is a great opportunity for children to push themselves out of their comfort zone in a safe structured environment. Well done to all children and staff involved in this trip.

On our return from half term the children will be doing all of the teaching for a week. Each child will choose a topic they wish to teach us about and they will give a presentation to

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the rest of their class.

This activity helps to reinforce the idea that we are lifelong learners and that we all have something to teach one another. Find out more about the highlights of learning week next time.

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Summer has arrived at Hartsfield and, after SATs tests and assessments, we are looking forward to the busy weeks ahead.

This term we will also be taking opportunities to enjoy time outside, playing and learning, both in the school grounds and further afield. This term we have a range of school trips planned and, as this goes to press, our Year 6's will be recovering from an action packed week of outdoor activities at PGL. There are several day trips planned across the school including Wilstead Bird of Prey Centre, Willows Farm and Swaffham Great Britain Centre to name a few. The summer term is also packed full of sporting activities and themed weeks.

We will be holding our 'Festival of Cultures' and our Sports and Science week in the near future in addition to taking part in a range of sports events along with other schools in the local area.

June is also a time when our minds turn to preparing for the next academic year and we look forward to welcoming our new Reception children and their parent/carers into the Hartsfield community with taster sessions and meetings in readiness for September.

Philippa Smith - Headteacher

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Baldock Town U9's win trophy!

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The Baldock Town U9's won a tournament in Newport on the Isle of Wight last month.

The team, who are regular mascots for the Baldock Town Senior Team, beat off 8 other teams to win the tournament that had nearly 200 teams of different age groups playing on the day.

The U9's who are coached by Dave McAdam and Dave Joy had thought they were runners up when they were looking at the stats, so when it was announced they were the winners there was some extreme shouting and cheering! Apparently some of the Red Army songs were sang on the Ferry and also in the Indian Restaurant.

When the news and the photo of the team was sent to Pinky at BTFC Executive Towers – the photo was put on the BTFC Website immediately and all the senior team were informed. Pinky said how proud she was of the mascots and that she can't wait for the new season to start so that they can come to the first home game at Arlesey (BTFC new ground share home) and show off the trophy!

The next big outing for the boys takes them to Chelsea FC's Stamford Bridge on the 28th May to play in the Precision Pass tournament. This is the opportunity of a lifetime to play on the same pitch that Chelsea FC play all their home games at.

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Baldock Gardens

By Graham Tapp

Tapps, The Baldock Garden Centre

June 2017 Last month I wrote about the impending drought and the severe frost, it turns out that the frost was much worse than we thought, most of northern Europe had devastating frosts the coldest for more than twenty years, fruit, vegetable, salad and vine crops are all badly effected, some crops in eastern Europe reported as being a total failure, some growers considering themselves to be lucky only losing an expected twenty percent, we wont be able to tell for a while yet what the loss will be but it will be costly.

At home here in the U.K. we had it a bit better than our continental friends but still suffered a high percentage of loss, some vineyards reporting that this years vintage will be poor at best, grape vines if frosted can and very often will re flower after a loss of the first set but will produce small and not very good quality grapes. Apples, pears cherries all suffered to various degrees but will not recover or reset. My fruit here in Baldock is looking particularly sad Apples are about twenty five percent crop, cherries a little better at about thirty percent, pears we cant tell at the moment as they are all standing up like little soldiers and until they bend over and face the ground there is no way of knowing. My grapes are looking OK at about fifty percent, Hydrangeas seem to be the local problem, most examples I have seen have all had the majority of flower buds destroyed, it is very unlikely that they will recover enough to produce any flowers at all, I would recommend in that case to take the opportunity to reshape your bushes, most hydrangeas flower on the wood grown the year before and if those buds get damaged in any way you will have very few flowers if any at all, so get onto it straight away and reshape to your liking, cutting hard back into old wood, if you do it now the bush will make enough new growth to fill the gap and the buds will ripen in this years autumn sun to give you even more flowers for early summer next year.

Choisia, Aucuba and Photinia have all suffered from the frosts and cold, most surprising of all has been box plants / hedging causing it to bleach or go white this then turns brown looking as if the plant has box blight, at this time of year it is unlikely blight and will recover over the summer, be aware that you will need to trim out the damaged parts. Some of you walking past the garden centre may have seen our beautiful photinia in the corner at the end of the cherry trees, this bleached out with the frost but not completely and ended up being a very attractive soft pink it has now started flowering and has lovely white flowers mixed in with the pink leaves.

Drought info next, as I write this on the 16th May we are expecting rain tomorrow but not much, I have held off planting a lot of my salad crops etc. because I have been busy with the Garden Centre expansion, I was going to get the site ready for the beginning of May but I have put that off now as its far to dry and we cant even dig the planting area as its gone down like concrete. I would think I have a three week window to get planted after that, quality and yield will diminish to a point when its not worth the effort, our students have been potting peas, beans , pumpkins and any thing else they could find, ready to go when the weather finally breaks.

Water companies are saying that it’s the driest winter in more than twenty years and the south east has received only ten percent of its expected rainfall , the National Farmers union’s Guy Smith says that “ while decent rains in May and June will put many crops back on track, some crops like spring barley have already clearly lost their full potential”. We are past the halfway mark of that prediction so things are not looking so good for farmers, gardeners, and allotment holders, now on the other hand those of us who grow ornamentals and have been clever enough to protect them from the frosts and cold winds will be on a winner hanging baskets and planters will love this warmer dry weather and will respond with good strong growth and beautiful summer long flowers, this will also be true for veg planters and growbags and although the cropping dates will be late compared with normal it will still be worth a go, so that’s what I am going to do use compost bags as planters, so as long as we get enough rain to prevent a hosepipe ban we should be in with a shout of some good produce.

Pest and diseases are enjoying the drought, powdery mildew is going mad and is turning up in large infections on roses and apple trees.

Woolly aphid and scale insects will be next and then red spider mite. In the mean time black and green fly are starting to build in numbers bringing with them colonies of ants, birds and other wildlife all part of the great food chain of which your plants are part, most will also be looking to share your prized plants so lots of netting small tunnels and cloches will help keep them away, depending on your views chemicals will help in most cases and if used as recommended will be safe, a cure for most problems is available. Organic methods can also be used to control most of these problems having various degrees of success, fit and healthy plants are the best way forward so regular feeding, careful pruning, careful choice of planting position, aspect etc. companion planting Good soil, or growing medium should have a preparation process reducing compaction giving an open structure with a high air filled porosity, air filled porosity is a measure of the gaps between the particles of soil or medium, these gaps will contain air, nutrients, bacteria, fungi and moisture, the medium should be a specific P,H. Providing these ideal conditions will give your garden, baskets and planters the best possible start, this is why Garden Centres and Plant nurseries sell a wide range of composts and soils named to indicate that they are manufactured to support a particular type or range of plants. Now having said all of that, some commercial growers are moving back to a no cultivation or digging system as I mentioned in a write up some time ago, this was all tried back in the early seventies and back even further to the late forties, different economic times my prove to make it work this time around as machinery and labour costs are a big influence on commercial systems, don’t try it in your garden yet.

Enjoy June Graham

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What’s On Baldock Floral Society's Monthly Meeting Thursday 1st June - 7.30 at Baldock Community Centre. The Demonstrator will be Joyce Fussedon with "Candle in the Wind". Sales Table. Visitors £6

DEPARTING FROM BALDOCK

WALLINGTON VILLAGE FETE Saturday 10th June 2pm. This year we have a plethora of countryside attractions including an Animal Petting Zoo and a new Village History Display as well as the perennially popular musical stalwarts The Letchworth Town Band, our homemade and tantalising teas, brilliant Bric-a-Brac and Produce stalls, the Raffle, Beer Tent and a cornucopia of other delights. There will also be plenty of fun and games for children and grown-ups alike, including the ever-popular EggThrowing Competition and a Fancy Dress Competition in the Countryside Theme so get your wellies on and we'll see you there!

Letchworth Settlement Fundraising Fair Saturday June 10th - 9.30am. Admission is priced at £1 with children free We've lots of stalls including plants, books, gourmet gifts, accessories (some vintage), tombola and much more. There are games to play and refreshments will be served in our wonderful main building. Later in June come and wander round five beautiful gardens in Letchworth in aid of The Settlement. Bring family and friends and enjoy tea and cake together in lovely surroundings. The open gardens take place on Sunday June 18th and Wednesday June 21st with admission just £4. Doors open from 1.30p-5pm. Addresses 20 and 22 Hitchin Road, 23 and 67 Baldock Road and 17 Sollershott West

Summertime at Sandon Village Market Saturday 17th June 9.30am - 12.30pm at Sandon School.

We will have delicious homemade cakes & savoury bakes, locally baked, breads, fresh meat, fruit & vegetables and cordials & juices as well as lotsof plants, gifts, accessories and homeware stalls. For the children we have an Inflatable Gladiator Podium on the school field and our handmade stall where each child can make their own special Father's Day craft. If you are interested in having a stall please contact us at sandongrowers@btinternet.com

Baldocks BIG LUNCH Sunday 18th June - Baldock High Street. Tickets are now on sale from the Community Centre, Taste and The White Lion.

The food choices this year are: Chapman’s BBQ, Fish & chips or sausage & chips by Matthew & Terry Cox, Roast Beef or Roast Pork dinner by The White Lion Ploughman’s Lunch or Feta & Roasted Vegetable Salad by Taste, Chicken Korai by Chilli Lounge adults £8.50, children £4.50 Fireside Festival Wednesday 28th June to Sat 1st July, Lannock Farm, Weston. Find out what's in store at www.firesidefestival.org

Baldock Cycle Challenge Sun 23rd July, a chance to explore the beautiful parishes and countryside that surround the town. There are two loops, each approx. 30 miles each, one starting in the morning, one in the afternoon – or you can do both! Find out more at www.baldockcycle.co.uk If you would like to have your event included FREE in the next issue please email info@onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk by 15th June 2017 or call Jacqui on 07973788418.

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GoPro have been at the top end of the ac on camera market for a long me and have consistently produced really high quality products, the Hero 5 range brings a whole range of func onality not seen before in a GoPro, so I was eager to find out more.

There are two camera's in the Hero 5 range, the Hero 5 Black and Hero 5 Session, both waterproof without addi onal case. I have been reviewing the Hero 5 Session.

The Session is a small camera! Measuring 38 x 38 x 36 mm (1.5 x 1.5 x 1.4 inch). On the front is the camera lens and the back is a small bu on, on the side is a covered MicroSD and USB-C port and finally on top is the shu er bu on which is also used for controlling the camera. There is also a very small mono led screen which lets you know the status and mode of the camera.

The camera comes equipped with on-board wifi and it is using this and a free app that you can control and preview the camera.

There is also a brand new 'Voice Control' mode too, which allows you to command the camera. There are 12 commands it understands ranging from 'GoPro Start Recording', 'GoPro Take a Photo' to 'GoPro Switch Off'. It actually works really well, however I only tried it in a room environment, so I'm not sure how it works out in the field, waves or ski slope though.

There are a heap of video modes you can shoot including 720p,960p,1080p,1440p,2,7k and up to 4k, these also offer up a variety of frame rates from 30fps at 4k to 120fps at 720p, there is the ability to remove the dreaded fish eye effect with 'Linear' in some modes and there is image stabilisa on available up to 1080p, so those bumpy rides of ski videos will have less judder for viewers.

The image quality is simply amazing! I have always doubted the quality of the videos provided by manufactures, but the Hero 5 Session really does delivery with zero post processing. I was honestly astounded by the 4k footage and I'm looking forward to ge ng out on my bike to get some off road footage over the next few days.

The camera can also take 10mp photos either in standard, melapse or burst mode with the ability to take 30 10mp

Way

WE ARE HERE SG7 5AN

Hitchin Street

FREE RE-TEST 74 Icknield Way, Baldock, SG7 5AN

01462 895933 JUNE

2017

25

Twinning Association Baldock Town Twinning Association Stages Murder Mystery Baldock Town Twinning Association continued its tradition of staging a 'Murder Mystery' production at St Mary's Church Hall as part of the Baldock Festival.

This year's production entitled “Death on Delivery” written by Richard Adams featured a cast comprising five members of the Town Twinning committee, two Twinning members and a family member. In previous years, the performance has been presented in the style of a radio play, however, this year the cast took on the added challenges of acting, movement around the stage and more use of props. The performance was not without its difficulties but all things considered the audience were treated to an evening of fun and enjoyment.

The evening also included a hot two course meal, bar and raffle, all of which were organised and prepared by members of the Association and their families.

Answer-phone on both numbers & will return all calls

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The funds raised enable the Town Twinning Association to host its twin town visitors from Eisenberg in the Rhineland-Pfalz area of Germany and Sanvignes-Les Mines in the Burgundy region of France.

The Association would like to express their thanks to all those people who attended the event, we recognise that people have a considerable choice of events to attend during the Baldock Festival and we very much appreciate the support given.

The Association, which comprises 40 members, has an active programme of fundraising events throughout the year, usually including food in some form. For this year's Twinning exchange activities, we will be visiting Eisenberg in July and hosting visitors from Sanvignes in August when we will celebrate the 20th anniversary of our Twinning partnership.

Not surprisingly we are continually looking to attract new members, so if you are interested in our activities or in finding out more about Baldock Town Twinning Association please call 01462-893114 or 07761-465228, alternatively you can look at our website www.baldocktwinning.wix.com/ Paul Luckett - BTTA Hon Chairman

Good Posture is Essential How important is good posture?

Good posture is essential for optimal health. It's as important as eating the right foods, exercising regularly and getting a good night's sleep. Poor posture will encourage stress and fatigue. The long-term effects can affect bodily systems such as digestion, breathing, joints and ligaments. You may become tired or unable to work efficiently.

What influences poor posture?

Every movement we make, carrying ourselves when working, relaxing, socialising or playing sport is created by muscles. These movements performed incorrectly or repetitively can have detrimental effects on our musculoskeletal system.

How can poor posture result in injury?

Many people ignore the symptoms of poor posture.

Sometimes an ache, cramp, sharp acute and chronic discomfort. We are all guilty of 'brushing off' the odd pain but, are we ignoring warning signs that could identify a weaker area of our stability that could possibly result in injury? If a muscle is aggravated or over-used it will encourage microscopic tears within its structure. This 'destructive' phase initiates a healing response that encourages the formation of scar tissue. This results in shortening of the muscle which then pulls on its tendon.

The tendon is connected to a bone and that bone will be connected to … you see where this is going? When issues arise in joints, without trauma or disease, this is commonly referred to 'wear and tear' but, if our muscles were holding us in the correct position, would this occur?

How can poor posture be prevented?

If you have a discomfort, a check-up at the GP is always advised prior to any further investigation to rule out other possible causes. When you get the all clear, it can sometimes seem like you've come to a dead end. Sound familiar?

Sports therapists have extensive knowledge of the musculoskeletal system, its effects on mobility and functional rehabilitation. Whether you are an athlete, housewife or working in a sedentary job, the chances are you have an imbalance, waiting for that perfect time

(usually when you have something really important to do!) to make an appearance.

Having a postural assessment before any symptoms occur can avoid injury completely. Once injury has occurred, it can identify the cause.

How can posture be corrected?

Following a full postural assessment, a functional rehabilitation programme should be collaborated, tailored to suit your individual needs. Sports and deep tissue massage are a great way to prepare the muscles for further manipulation as well as increase pliability to aid range of motion. This should then follow with stretching and strengthening protocols to promote a 'neutral alignment'.

A period of time with poor posture as a result of an imbalance will increase your chances of injury let alone hinder your day to day living. So why are we suffering unnecessarily? The importance of the musculoskeletal system is often over-looked. We are repeatedly missinformed, preferring to go with what sells rather than what works.

A postural assessment performed by a professional will lower your chances of injury occurring and when injured, treat the cause not just the symptoms. Muscles allow us mobility and strength, look after your muscles and they will look after you!

Are things a little slow?

Its easy to advertise in On Our Doorstep

Call Jacqui 07973 788 418 or

info@onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk

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So far this year 2017

HAIR, NAILS & BEAUTY

SLIMMING WORLD members in Baldock have lost

The leaders in Aromatherapy skin care offering the ultimate facial experience

Healing is the foundation for beautiful hair

Colour that inspires, Gel that endures

ÂŁ5 OFF YOUR NEXT VISIT

New and exclusive to the area, three professional brands.

Award winning, world renowned products and treatments available

A full range of hair & beauty treatments, product packages & gift vouchers available

01462 790122 Hairworks, Fore Street, Weston, Hitchin, Herts. SG4 7AS FREE PARKING

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3,170 lbs

SlimmingSandra World Recipe Lloyd Supplied by

Chicken and Quinoa Salad This simple salad is refreshing and substantial, and any leftovers would make a great lunchbox filler.

Ingredients Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

200g dried quinoa 4 cooked skinless and boneless chicken breasts, roughly shredded 4 red apples, cored and cut into bite-sized pieces 4 celery sticks, thinly sliced Small bag of baby spinach leaves Bunch of spring onions, trimmed and thinly sliced 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and finely chopped, to garnish Small handful of finely chopped fresh chives Small handful of finely chopped fresh mint

for the dressing: Ÿ 200g fat free natural fromage frais Ÿ 3 tbsp fat free vinaigrette Ÿ 2 tbsp roughly chopped bottled gherkins Ÿ Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method 1. Cook the quinoa according to the packet instructions then drain and set aside.

2. Meanwhile, put the chicken in a large salad bowl with the apples, celery, spinach and spring onions.

3. Mix all the dressing ingredients together in a bowl and pour over the salad.

4. Add the cooked quinoa and toss to mix well. Scatter over the egg and fresh herbs to serve.

6 7

1 4

4 5 2

2 9

4 5 8 9 8 7

1 8 3 4

2 5 3

4 7

7 9

Tip: Quinoa is a great alternative to rice or couscous.

R.H GARDEN DESIGN The Garden Specialists Some of our many services offered include:

rich.humphreys@btinternet.com T: 01462 612033 M: 07738 246568

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Regular maintenance Garden Make-overs Jungles tamed Patios Fencing Turng Planting Articial grass Decking Driveways Pressure washing of patios and drives

Are things a little slow?

Its easy to advertise in On Our Doorstep Call Jacqui 07973 788 418 or

info@onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk

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2017

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JUNE MOVIES JUNE 2nd - WONDER WOMAN Before she was Wonder Woman, she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior.

Raised on a sheltered island paradise, when an American pilot crashes on their shores and tells of a massive conflict raging in the outside world, Diana leaves her home, convinced she can stop the threat. Fighting alongside man in a war to end all wars, Diana will discover her full powers and her true destiny.

Written by zemon19

JUNE 16th - MAUDIE Based on a true story, this is an unlikely romance in which the reclusive Everett Lewis hires a fragile yet determined woman named Maudie to be his housekeeper. Maudie, bright-eyed but hunched with crippled hands, yearns to be independent, to live away from her protective family and she also yearns, passionately, to create art. Even with Everett's best efforts to protect himself from being hurt he finds himself falling in love with her.

JUNE 23rd - TRANSFORMERS The Last Knight Set to shatter the core myths of the Transformers franchise, and redefines what it means to be a hero. Humans are at war with the Transformers, and Optimus Prime is gone. The key to saving the future lies buried in the secrets of the past and the hidden history of Transformers on Earth. Now, it's up to the unlikely alliance of Cade Yeager (Mark Wahlberg), Bumblebee, an English lord (Anthony Hopkins) and an Oxford professor (Laura Haddock) to save the world.

JUNE 28th - BABY DRIVER Talented getaway driver Baby (Ansel Elgort) relies on the beat of his personal soundtrack to be the best in the game. After meeting the woman of his dreams (Lily James), he sees a chance to ditch his shady lifestyle and make a clean break. Coerced into working for a crime boss (Kevin Spacey), Baby must face the music as a doomed heist threatens his life, love and freedom.

JUNE 30th - DESPICABLE ME 3 After a 4 year break, Illumination brings us the sequel to Despicable 2, which continues the adventures of Gru, Lucy, their adorable daughters. In this chapter, Gru meets his long lost twin brother Dru. And there’s a new super villain intent on taking over the world, Balthazar Bratt a former 80's child star who is obsessed with the character that he used to play. Mix in a little sibling rivalry and the scene is set for another block buster.

Mobile

hairdresser Call

Jacqui

07973 788 418 01462 640 307

Covering Baldock, Ashwell & Weston JUNE

2017

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MC P umbing and Heating

We are Gas Safe Registered and use Kamco products and machines for our Power Flushing We are based in Baldock and offer a reliable service

No She's Not Called Buttercup!

The cows are back on Weston Hills – amid a huge sea of golden buttercups.

This year's 4 longhorn cattle are; Hovis 4yr tag: 600033, Lucrecia 5yr tag: 100082, Florentine 6yr tag: 400100, Cinderella 8yr tag: 700022.

For all your plumbing needs contact Mark who will be happy to help you mark@mc-plumbingandheating.com www.mc-plumbingandheating.com

When I went up to the enclosure to get a photo in time for this article it was pouring with rain. I searched the thickets near the water trough assuming they would be sheltering there, but no – all 4 were happily grazing at the top of the hill oblivious it seems to the steady downpour and quite happy for me to walk among them.

Maybe the rainwater made the grass taste sweeter – I noticed they weren't daft – they cleverly extracted the grass from among the tougher stems of dogwood etc! However the plan is that they have come to Weston Hills earlier this year to nibble the shoots of dogwood while they are still relatively appetising – thereby keeping the scrub down and allowing more chalk grassland flowers to re-establish themselves and add to the diversity in this Nature Reserve. Do have a walk and take a look at these lovely ladies (dogs on leads please), but watch your step….the cow pats are huge!

Katrina Nice - Volunteer, Friends of Baldock Green Spaces JUNE

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Why should you consider

Somfy®motorised blinds?

No more cables or strings that get tangled up! With just one click you can open or close your blind with perfect positioning and alignment. Somfy motors are also ideal for large windows, high-up or hard to reach shades.

With Somfy®, you can discover automation options for all types of interior blinds. WireFree™ (battery) or mains powered options offer different benefits and price points. You can also choose from a large selection of control options, including handsets, wall switches, timers or sensors. No matter what your preferred solution may be, Somfy® guarantees ease of use, reliability and quality Ÿ Automate your blinds via a timer to make your house look occupied, even if you're away Ÿ Enhances child safety by eliminating the need for pull cords Ÿ Comfort and privacy with the push of a button Ÿ Set your electric blinds to a preferred position using Somfy®'s unique 'my' button Ÿ Even weather-controlled operation is possible with solar wind and temperature sensors Control your blinds and curtains with your smartphone Smart Living with Somfy Smart Home Somfy Smart Home puts you in control, makes your life easier, more comfortable and gives you peace of mind, wherever you are. Monitor and operate blinds, curtains, lights, electrical equipment, heating, garage doors and gates with your smartphone or tablet.

You can adjust everything about the Somfy Smart Home System to accommodate your personal preferences and you can monitor and operate it from anywhere in the world.

Create scenarios for your favourite settings involving your blinds, curtains, interior lights and heating. With one click your entire home can be set to the right ambiance. Check and adjust blinds or curtains remotely to keep your home cool in summer, retain heat in winter or make your window coverings even smarter by adding temperature or sun sensors and let your blinds and lights react to circumstances automatically.

Somfy TaHoma is a smart box and the heart of your Smart Home. It links you to your home via the smart TaHoma app and your wireless network. Somfy Smart Home solutions are extremely easy to use and can be installed with very little trouble. You can add products whenever it suits your needs or your budget. Somfy Smart Home gets the most from your home with the least possible effort.

If you would like more information on Somfy motorised ...................products please call in and speak to Gary from .................................Finnese, your local Somfy expert.

Crash Care Centre Ltd

Vehicle Accident Repair Specialists

Ÿ All Types of Bodywork Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Undertaken PAS125 Accredited Insurance Approved Bodyshop Restoration Project Specialists Resprays Paintless Dent Removal Smart Repairs Wheel Refurbs Collection & delivery

T:

01462 441 686

E: info@crashcarecentre.com www.crashcarecentre.com JUNE

2017

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‘A Joyful Occasion’ Do you need to make a Will or revise your existing Will?

If so, please take advantage of our reduced rate wills offer.

Please note that reduced rate wills will be available every week day from 8.00am until 6.00pm, and on Tuesday evenings until 8.00pm,by appointment only.

Also on the Saturday mornings of 10th & 24th June and 22th July 2017, again by appointment only Reduced rates are:Double Wills - £250.00 plus VAT Single Will - £130.00 plus VAT HOME VISITS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT NO EXTRA CHARGE WITHIN A 5 MILE RADIUS OF BALDOCK. For more information please contact:FISH HILL CHAMBERS, 2-3 FISH HILL, ROYSTON, HERTS, SG8 9JY

Tel: 01763 241121 t.donnellan@walkerspartnership.co.uk

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People told me I couldn't stop smiling!

After many hours of studying and training part time, I was so happy to become licensed as a Reader in the Church of England (a licensed lay minister) on 14 May at St Albans Abbey and will now be part of the ministry team at St Mary's church Baldock with Andrew, James and Sharon.

Readers are authorised to preach, lead worship and conduct funerals, much like priests, but have a distinctive ministry in remaining “lay” (ie one of the people) and so being a bridge between Church and the world. It is a voluntary role and individually tailored to each person depending how much time each Reader can give after work and family commitments. We hope through our day to day lives to show Christ's values in the world and then bring our experiences of the world back into the Church, helping make Christianity relevant and alive in all situations.

So many thanks to everyone who has helped and supported me on this challenging journey, especially Revd Andrew Holford and my late daughter Victoria who was the driving force behind my ability to see the world with different eyes. I believe she was probably smiling through me on Sunday too!

Katrina Nice 19.5.17

Deb’s Dirty Cookers We clean cookers, extractor fans, microwaves.

Spring cleaning & cooker repairs also undertaken Friendly Reliable Service Treat your cooker today

Please contact Debbie 01438 215172 07983 577803

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2017

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Jungle Adventures at Merry Go Round The nursery children recently visited Shepreth Wildlife Park and had an amazing day looking at all the animals. To add to the experience the children travelled to Shepreth on the train. We would like to thank the staff for organising such a great day out for the children. Upon their return the children created pictures of their favourite animals from the zoo.

They also had their own train in the role play area which has proved to be very popular.

GARDEN CONSTRUCTION & FENCING Complete Patio Design Landscaping Decking Gazebo’s Fencing & Gates Turfing & Seeding Walls Hedging Driveways Ponds Block Paving Rockeries Gardening Lawn Mowing Tree Pruning

MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS WELCOME FRIENDLY FAMILY BUSINESS FREE ESTIMATES AND ADVICE DISTANCE NO OBJECT ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED

Contact Philip for further details on

Tel: 01438 214809 Mob: 07814 266060 20 Angle Ways, Shephall,Stevenage

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The children have enjoyed learning about animals so much that they are now visiting the jungle to explore in their own jeep and the different animals that live there.

They have also been listening to the Michael Rosen story We're Going on a Bear Hunt. They children created 'story maps' showing the different parts of the story they liked the most. The children got to go on their very own bear hunt to find Barney Bear in the garden. Barney will shortly be going on lots of adventures of this own as he will be going home to each child's house for a night.

If you would like to find out more about Merry Go Round we are holding an Open Afternoon on Friday 30th June 1:30pm -3pm.

There will be staff on hand to answer any of your questions along with lots of typical activities that the children enjoy. This is open to anyone interested in a pre-school or nursery place from September.

We really enjoyed meeting everyone at the Baldock Street Fair. Thank you for continuing to support us.

Useful numbers Advice Citizen’s Advice Bureau Trading Standards Advice

03444 111444 0300 300 8136

Churches St Marys the Virgin Baptist church Roman Catholic Methodist Christchurch United Reformed Church

01462 892838 01462 893203 01462 893127 01462 895052 01462 232005 01462 619350

Councils North Hertfordshire District

Doctors Baldock Surgery

01462 474000 01462 892458

Dentist Victoria Place Dental Surgery

01763 313869

Emergency Utilities Gas Emergency Electric power cut

0800 111999 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

Public Houses Engine The Cock The Old White Horse The Orange Tree The Victoria The White Lion

01462 896111 01462 892366 01462 893168 01462 892341 01462 893153 01462 893134

Schools Knights Templar Hartsď€ eld St Johns St Marys Brandles

01462 620700 01462 895267 01462 892478 01462 892347 01462 892189

Travel Taxi - A2B Taxis Arriva Buses National Rail Enquires National Bus line

01462 228765 08701 201088 03457 484950 0870 6082608

Vets Baldock Veterinary Centre

01462 895579

Nurseries Weston Way Nursery Merry Go Round

01462 892172 01462 896322

Play Groups Magic Moments Merry Go Round

07980 400690 01462 896322

Plumbers A.P Hughes

07949 120911

Window & Door repairs JML Windows Reapairs Warrens Windows

01438 906300 01462 261401

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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