Spark Magazine (Cambs A1 Edition): February 2022

FREE Connecting local communities between Huntingdon and Peterborough

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MAGAZINE

PETERBOROUG H

F O L K S WO RT H S T I LTO N

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C O N I N G TO N

S AW T RY

Valentines Romantic Tax Tips for Couples!

A LC O N B U RY

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Welcome to the February issue of Spark Magazine!

17 | February 2022

Welcome to the February edition of Spark Magazine!

Contents Shrink your waste footprint 04 City College Opportunity 06 Fork Handles 08 Men United in Song is Back 10 Peterborough Museum 12 Growing Motor Empire 14 Eclectic Ballroom Charters Bar 16 We Love Peterborough 18-19 Valentines Tax Tips 20 Local Business in Award Final 22 Sawtry Tennis Club 24 Talk, Listen, Change Lives 27 Cambrideshire libraries 30

Spark Magazine is published

by AMM Publishing Editor: Andrew Morgan andrew@sparkmag.co.uk 07841 720916 Advertising manager: Lisa Thulborn lisa@sparkmag.co.uk 07914 445281 Designer: Leila Schmitz

Well, time is certainly ticking by and if you are a professed hater of winter weather (like myself) then it is certainly nice to think that springtime is just around the corner. Anyhow, enough of my grumpy weather-related blatherings and on to what we’ve got in store for you this month!

In the following pages you will find out about the latest goings on at Peterborough Museum as well as the top-class nightlife happening in the city. We also feature a Godmanchester-based business who are making waves in the catering industry along with our usual features on topics such as gardening and personal finance.

Speaking of features, I just wanted to remind all of our readers that my inbox is always open if anybody has any specialist knowledge that they would like to share with the local community. In particular, I would love some submissions on things such as local history, cookery/recipes, wildlife and I’m also keen to hear from any charities or non-profit organisations who are undertaking positive work in the local area.

That’s it from me for another month but, as always, thanks to our contributors and advertisers - if you own a local business and would like to advertise in Spark then please do get in touch: lisa@sparkmag.co.uk Enjoy the magazine!

Andrew Morgan

Editor, Spark Magazine

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Spark Magazine is an independently produced magazine by a small family business in Cambridgeshire. Views and opinions written in this magazine may not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

All content and photography supplied by contributors are published in good faith on the understanding that they are free from copyright and other restrictions. Spark Magazine accepts no liability from any loss or damage resulting from errors or non-publication of any advertising.

We reserve the right to refuse publication of any advertisement or other content without explanation. To the maximum extent of the law we accept no liability for any loss or damage (direct or indirect) suffered as a result of any advertisement, article or any content within the magazine.

www.sparkmag.co.uk

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Feature

Shrink Your Waste Footprint in 2022 Looking for an environmentally sustainable New Year’s resolution? One of our #HuntsWasteBusters looks at what makes up our landfilled waste.

In 2020, Huntingdonshire residents sent over 29,000 tonnes of waste to landfill. Much of this could have been directed elsewhere. Recycling, reusing and composting are the keys to cutting our waste footprint.

In 2019 the council completed a waste analysis. They found that over 70% of the contents could have avoided landfill. Our blue bins can take a lot more items than you might expect and the council can make compost from our green bin waste. Many soft plastics can now be recycled at larger supermarkets. Our Household Waste Recycling Centres accept a range of materials from paint tins to small electricals. Terracycle schemes also offer local drop-off points to recycle a wide variety of items.

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The most important change you can make in 2022 is to tackle your food waste. Keep a bucket or caddy near your kitchen bin so it’s easy to collect your food scraps, kitchen roll and tea bags. Add this to your green bin with your garden waste.

Huntingdonshire is already leading the way on waste reduction. We achieved the 33rd highest recycling rate across all 317 English councils in 2019/20.

Follow Huntingdonshire Recycles on social media for tips and reminders. Let’s all make a New Year’s resolution to shrink our waste footprint and help Huntingdonshire climb to #1!

Specialist Menopause Clinic, Cambridgeshire EveryWoman Health is founded by Dr. Glenys Quartey-Irwin who is an Accredited Menopause Specialist, Women’s Health Specialist and General Practitioner based in Cambridgeshire.

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Feature

City College Opportunity For Residents To Share Their Hobbies City College Peterborough wants to hear from people who are passionate about a particular interest or hobby and would like to earn money sharing it with other city residents.

The college is looking for anyone with good knowledge and the practical skills for their particular interest, which they can share with people who want to learn something new.

Successful applicants will run short taster sessions with the college to see if their course will generate enrolments. The opportunity is open to anyone over the age of 19.

Hobbies for the taster sessions can be about a wide range of subjects from cookery, languages, history, science, basic IT, writing, gardening, Tai chi, or anything that has a broad appeal to individuals or families.

Applicants do not need to be a qualified tutor; the only requirement is being able to inspire people with the passion they have for their topic.

Janet Bristow, Deputy Principal and Head of Service at City College Peterborough, said: “The taster sessions are designed to encourage people to improve their health, confidence and wellbeing by embracing something new and, for some, tempting them into their first step towards further learning.

“We’re not looking for experienced tutors or experts as it’s very much an informal and fun experience to share with others who can learn something new. All you need is a good knowledge of your hobby or interest and the enthusiasm to share it with others.”

For more information about running an online taster session, email Harriet Bowen hbowen@ citycollegepeterborough.ac.uk or call 01733 761361.

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Rothschild bungalow – The Wildlife Trusts)

Feature

Fork Handles Your guide to the garden in February by Nicky Daish

Your guide to the garden in February Lift and divide snowdrops ‘in the green’ when they have finished flowering Prunes shrub roses before they start growing Prune late-flowering group 3 Clematis cultivars to 15 to 30 cm (6-12in) above soil level, cutting just above a pair of healthy buds.

Cut down ornamental grasses that have been left standing over the winter This is the last chance to plant bare-root plants such as hedging and roses Mulch trees, shrubs, hedges and climbers with garden compost or well-rotted farmyard manure Lay turf if the soil is not too wet or frosty and spike any compacted areas of existing lawns to aerate the soil Start sowing vegetable seeds under cover such as Brussel sprouts, early summer cabbages and leeks. Broad beans can be sown 5-7cm (2-2.5in) deep directly in the garden or in pots of multipurpose compost.

After digging over vegetable beds warm the soil by placing cloches, black polythene or clear plastic sheeting over it. This helps seeds to germinate earlier.

Sow tomatoes seeds towards the end of the month if you have a heated propagator

Winter Aconite (Eranthis hyemalis) Eranthis hyemalis is a member of the buttercup (Ranunculaceae) family and quickly spread to form a cheerful carpet of bright yellow flowers in late winter. Their leaves resemble those of the true Aconite, from which it gets it common name the Winter Aconite. When planted with snowdrops and bluebells they make a spectacular woodland display as they will tolerate both partial shade and full sun.

Tubers can be planted in the autumn or they can be planted in the green in the spring. They like moist, well-drained soil that has been enriched with organic matter. Plants grow to around 10cm high. The leaves should be allowed to die back to feed the tubers ready for the next season.

One word of caution - all parts of winter aconites are harmful if eaten and the sap is an irritant to skin and eyes.

Garden Visits Many gardens are open on selected dates in February to view their snowdrop displays. Check out the National Trust website for a choice of gardens near you and the Cambridge University Botanic Gardens for their snowdrop trails.

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Feature

Men United in Song is back!

Last year’s Men United in Song was such a big hit that the popular pop-up singing project is back again only six months later!

Launching in March 2022 and once again supporting long-term charity partner Prostate Cancer UK, Men United in Song aims to give another 40-plus local men the opportunity to get involved, try something new and give something back to the community... and YOU could be one of them!

Working over nine weeks towards a fantastic live charity event at Peterborough Cathedral in May, you’ll learn to sing, meet new people, challenge yourself, perform live on stage AND raise money for a much-loved and very important charity – what’s not to like?

No previous experience is necessary, just a willingness to step outside your comfort zone, get stuck in and give it a go... everyone’s in the same boat, and it’s all about the journey!

After eighteen months of lockdowns, restrictions and worry last year’s project was an overwhelmingly positive experience for the 70 or so men who took part, with comments including: A really great experience, at the start it was daunting, but we all came good!

A great bunch of men, and you got the best out of us… brilliant!

The hard work paid off! Thanks for finding something in us that most didn’t know we had!

Amazing, I never thought in a million years I would ever sing in front of hundreds of people!

Stuart from Bourne says “The whole experience was extremely rewarding and exciting. You get to see what your voice is really capable of and to share a few pints with a great bunch of guys from all walks of life, who you might not normally meet. The sense of achievement when you finally get to perform in front of an audience in the concert is amazing. I couldn’t recommend it highly enough.”

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Men United in Song kicks off with introduction sessions on Thursday 3rd March (7-10pm) and Friday 4th March (7-10pm) when you can meet the team and some of the other men who’ll be taking part. This is NOT an audition and there’s no big red buzzer, just an opportunity to find out more and get involved - contact us TODAY to book your time slot!

So… if you’re looking for a fresh challenge and you’d like to know more, get in touch NOW and start YOUR Men United in Song journey!

• Men United in Song introductory sessions will be at the John Mansfield Campus PE1 4HX on Thursday 3rd March and Friday 4th March (7-10pm), please register first for your timeslot.

• Men United in Song rehearsals will be at the John Mansfield Campus PE 4HX from 7.45pm on Thursday evenings, starting on Thursday 10th March.

• The Men United in Song 2022 charity event will be at Peterborough Cathedral at 7.30pm on Saturday 7th May. For further information or to register for one of our introduction sessions visit peterboroughsings.org.uk, email menunited@peterboroughsings.org.uk or call 01733 425194

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Peteborough Museum: My Dog Sighs Feature

By Jo Riley One of the world’s leading street artists will be signing copies of his new book at Peterborough Museum & Art Gallery’s Urban exhibition next month.

My Dog Sighs, aka Paul Stone, who has had sell out solo exhibitions in the US, Israel and the UK, will be hosting a talk and question and answer session on Saturday, February 12, from 7pm to 9pm.

The prolific artist, from Portsmouth, originally trained as a primary school teacher but turned to street art when he was 30.

He is renowned for using a vast array of reclaimed materials, including oil drums, bottle caps and tin cans, to create his pieces and over the last 18 years has undertaken commissions all over the world.

Paul started out by making works of art at home and leaving them on the streets once a month as part of the Free Art Friday project.

As his art became more widely known he gained commissions across the globe, including Amsterdam Street Art Museum, Coventry Transport Museum, Shenzhen China and even has works in actor Matt Damon’s private art collection.

He said: “I love abandoned buildings and working with tin cans, peeling paint and rust. These are things which light my fire.

“I use reclaimed items to create my art and pose the question of whether we need to keep buying new stuff and destroying the planet.

“I do a lot of paintings on tin cans and by doing so change the value of the can and make it more desirable. The faces I paint on them tug on your heart strings and make them into something new.”

Paul is also renowned for his giant paintings of eyes, which feature pictures in the pupils.

He added: “I used to paint closed eyes as they reminded me of the homeless people in Portsmouth who would never look at me. But one day a girl looked back at me and 12 spark

from then onwards I painted open eyes.

“I see eyes as windows into the soul. I hide stories inside the eyes and leave it up to people to decide what they can see and what the stories represent – dreams, wishes, wants.”

Over the years Paul has painted murals across five continents, including on a 14-storey building in China where he had to balance on bamboo scaffolding.

“I’ve had the opportunity to travel all over the world and consider myself very lucky,” he added.

He has spent the last two years working on a groundbreaking installation in an abandoned casino in Portsmouth.

He transformed the 3000 square metre space into an immersive world inhabited by the artist’s own sculptural creatures, dubbed his ‘Quiet Little Voices’ and welcomed 10,000 people through the door over the 16 days of opening.

He said: “As you walked through there were sculptures of people crushing cans and painting eyes, it was an insight into my world.”

His new book, INSIDE, is the legacy from the show and reveals how it was put together as well as photos from the exhibition.

Visitors to Peterborough museum will be able to buy copies of the book and have them signed by Paul after his talk.

There will also be the chance to see some of his work, including a large concrete canvas of an eye and a crushed oil drum, at the Urban exhibition, which continues until May. General admission for the exhibition is £8 for over 18s, £5 for youngsters aged 12-18 and free for under 12s.

The My Dog Sighs artist talk takes place at the Museum on Saturday, February 12, from 7pm to 9pm. It costs £25 per ticket, including a welcome drink and street food.

The hour-long talk and question and answer session will be followed by a book signing. Covid passports will be required. To book visit https://cityculturepeterborough. org.uk/museum-art-gallery

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Feature

Growing motor empire for former student

Growing up with a passion for all things practical and a particular love for mechanics, Aaron Ginn always knew he would pursue a career in the motor industry.

After completing his secondary education with Comberton Village College in 2003, Aaron enrolled on to the Motor Vehicle Engineering course with Cambridge Regional College.

Over the last few years, Aaron has started to take apprentices into his business so that he can pass on his industry knowledge and expertise to the next generation of learners.

Aaron said, “I wasn’t particularly academic at school but was always good with the practical side of things. I knew that I wanted to get into mechanics from an early age, so it was inevitable that I would start my career this way.

I had heard good things about the mechanics course at CRC and I was certain it was the place to go to start my educational journey.”

Aaron concludes, “Being able to support young people entering the industry, through apprenticeships with CRC, is the ultimate achievement. My advice to anyone studying at Cambridge Regional College is to work hard and follow your passion. If you want to be successful in what you do, then believe you can do it. I firmly believe that with a positive attitude, anyone can do anything.”

Whilst studying with CRC, Aaron was approached by a company in Newmarket with an offer of an apprenticeship, so upon completion of his Level 3 qualification, Aaron went on to complete the Advanced Apprenticeship in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Light Vehicle in 2008.

A.G. Motors have premises in Papworth Everard and the village of Over. For further information visit www.agmotors.net or follow them on social media @agmotorspap.

In 2009 Aaron opened the doors to A.G. Motors for the first time.

Aaron added, “I learnt so much at CRC. Without that first step, I wouldn’t have been able to enrol onto the apprenticeship. I felt supported with my studies and my mentors were very inspiring. Aged 34, I now have multiple successful garages, in which I employ more than 20 people in the Cambridgeshire area. My business is thriving, and I have plans to expand into further areas.”

Based in Papworth Everard with state of the art facilities, Aaron has assembled a team wo have come from multiple disciplines within the automotive world. They pride themselves on ensuring they keep their finger on the pulse of innovation within the automotive industry.

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Eclectic Ballroom & Charters Bar Present The Allergies and Madame Eclectrfie Feature

On February, 18th 2022 Eclectic Ballroom (Jim Norton & Zed Malik ), returns to Charters for the follow up event, to the hugely successful party with A Skillz in November 2021. Joining them on the next event are, The Allergies and formidable Madame Electrifie, expect a night of breaks, funk. disco, house and jazz infused grooves through out the night. Supported by local Dj’s Murray Watson, Tom Barrett and Jim Norton/ Zed Malik (Eclectic Ballroom).

“The Allergies are neck deep in the world of scratchy samples…This is truly funk and soul for the 21st century!”

– Craig Charles, BBC 6 Music.

Since forming in 2012 The Allergies have made it their mission to reshape funky vintage sounds for the modern dancefloor.

DJ Moneyshot & Rackabeat first bonded over their love of classic hip-hop and beats, then decided to pool their knowledge and skills into making their own music.

After breaking onto the scene with a Mixmag ‘Tune of the Month’, The Allergies (DJ Moneyshot and Rackabeat) continued in their mission to bring re-fuelled funk and feel good hip-hop to the masses. The three LPs that followed, on Brighton’s Jalapeno Records, were sonic steps forward for the pair, winning them die-hard fans and BBC 6 Music ‘Album of the Day’ and ‘Album of the Year’ awards along the way.

With each successive release they found strength in numbers, with the duo forming a crack team of vocalists, rappers, and musicians around them, fleshing out their sound. Andy Cooper, of underground LA rap legends Ugly Duckling, became their powerhouse front man. Soulsensation Marietta Smith, the deadly diva. And Dub FX’s sax star Mr. Woodnote, their master of the badass brass. theallergies.bandcamp.com www.facebook.com/theallergies Madame Electrifie is the alter ego of breaks/electro/ techno DJ Little Jo. Jo has amassed some 18 years on the decks, playing some of the UK’s leading venues across the years. She first cut her teeth at leading UK venues Ministry of Sound, The Cross and Turnmills, and graced many of the leading London warehouse parties in her early career.

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Since then she’s gone on to support some of the biggest names in electronic music over the years across all spectrums of the dance music world including The Stanton Warriors, Jon Carter, Elite Force, A Skillz, Craig Charles, Annie Nightingale, Rob Da Bank, Krafty Kuts, the Freestylers and a whole host of bands. A festival favourite thanks to her eclectic taste; summer sees her play sets across all kinds of festival stages at Glastonbury, Bestival, Truefest, Nozstock, Wilderness & Shambala, alongside presenting her own stages at Boomtown and Beatherder.

With tours of Australia and Europe also under her belt she’s no stranger to rocking a party. 2020 has seen her locked away in the studio with several releases planned for 2021.

Fusing the best vintage beats with the best of the modern age; Madame Electrifie takes classic grooves and threads through everything from hip hop, to house, breaks and bass to create a raucous dance floor focused party, spliced with plenty of funk, fun and a refusal to take life too seriously. She’s a resident on Data Transmission and can regularly be found causing shenanigans up and down the country.

She can also be found playing alongside breaks legend Mini Da Minx as Evil Twin. And is producer and backing vocalist in Electronica trio Cassini Circles. www.madame-electrifie.com www.facebook.com/madameelectrifie www.soundcloud.com/madame-electrifie Feb 18th 2022 Charters Bar, Town Bridge, Peterborough PE1 1FP Doors open 10pm Till 3am Tickets available on Event Brite only. First wave £10, second wave £15, remaining ticket’s will be made available on the door, subject to availability. www.charters-bar.com

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We love

Peterborough Earlier in January We Love Peterborough was talking to Dotty McLeod on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire about the positive things Peterborough has to offer and the horrendous, advert money-making website “I Live Here” that rates the top 50 Worst places to live in the UK. Well, if you’ve not heard already PETERBOROUGH IS NO LONGER TOP SPOT and has been replaced by poor Aylesbury, who also defended their city.

We were very happy to once again support our city with the lovely things you can do here.

At We Love Peterborough it’s all about positivity - Go out and see what’s going on around you, maybe there are events put on by local businesses, local groups and your local community centres to get involved with, you just might enjoy yourself. Not everything has a high entry fee and some enjoyable activities are free to enjoy so.....

Here are some things which we thought of about our city, but please feel free to get in touch with your own ‘positive’ comments via our Facebook page.

1. A beautiful Peterborough Cathedral (FREE to enter) that draws visitors in from all over the world because of its unique wooden ceiling and as it now hosts a lot of alternative events to fund itself like craft markets, the gin & rum festival, plays, the Catherine of Aragon festival and last year a fabulous light show – there’s always something going on – by the way the views from the tower are fabulous!

2. Open spaces are rapidly improving. Nene Park Ferry Meadows with watersports and lots more play areas for the kids, Orton Mere and the boating lake which is just about to be revamped with the sculpture park around it, central park with sports, walks, and a great coffee shop and restaurant in the middle, it’s even still 18 spark

got the aviary there from my childhood all FREE to use.

3. The peaceful spots along the embankment with the swans, picnic areas, the fab The Chalkboard restaurant with outside seating and, of course, Charters Bar with its revamped outdoor are (looks amazing guys - great job) on the other side and now boat trips and paddle boarding in the warmer months.

4. Culture is being shared with us at every opportunity whether it’s local theatre like Metal Peterborough, Lamphouse Theatre or Jumped Up Theatre including the revamped New Theatre Peterborough, a host of events from The Cresset and lots always going on at East of England Arena and Events Centre for big shows.

5. There is plenty of Heritage on our doorstep from Nene Valley Railway – our own steam trains – how fabulous is that!!! – and of course that hidden gem in the town centre Railworld Wildlife Haven with some beautiful gardens, rail memorabilia and all created and run by volunteers. (hats off to everyone involved) 6. Also not forgetting our claim to famous ‘ancient’ stuff which is out at Flag Fen and our lovely FREE to enter Peterborough Museum 7. Plenty, and I mean plenty of choice, of where to EAT in the city as well as surrounding areas, where you can get really good food from both big chains and from our smaller independents like Mattoni, The Pizza Parlour & Music Cafe, Bean Around, Bewiched the Pizza House, Tap and Tandoor, The Banyan Tree, The Lightbox Cafe, Embe Soul Food, Nata Cafe and many more I just don’t have space to mention them all....

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For more information visit www.welovepeterborough.co.uk

8. We also mustn’t forget that all time favourite our Peterborough Lido – we are so lucky to have an outdoor swimming pool for the public to enjoy through the summer months It’s just about making the most of and using what we have.

All you have to do is look at things a bit more positively like we do at We Love Peterborough - see what is really great around you where you live, GO AND USE IT and hopefully you’ll enjoy it!!!!

We can get off this list completely I’m sure.

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Feature

A selection of romantic Valentine tax tips for couples

by Pete Bird, Bird & Co, Certified Public Accountants

Dinner for two Are you a business owner? If your beloved is your only employee, consider having a romantic evening meal. Staff entertaining does not give rise to an income tax charge for employees as a benefit-in-kind within certain limits. There is a £150 per head limit for benefit-in-kind purposes if unexpected tax bills are to be avoided This exemption only applies to annual events, so why not make it an annual occasion?

What about a business tax deduction for your annual meal? Staff entertaining is allowable if it is not incidental to entertainment which is provided to others. However, HMRC may need convincing that (say) an anniversary meal with your significant other is ‘wholly and exclusively’ for the purposes of the business!

• The ‘benefit cost’ of the benefit provided to the employee (or the amounts allocated to the employee where the benefit is provided to a family or household member who is not an employee) does not exceed the available exempt amount.

• The next, which broadly applies to employees who are office holders (or family or household members who are employees) of closely-controlled companies, the individual has an annual exempt amount of £300. However, members of the office holder’s family or household who are employees of the same company each have their own annual cap of £300.

Tax relief for your gift?

Thinking of giving your beloved a romantic gift? There is an income tax exemption for ‘trivial’ benefits provided by employers where certain conditions (paraphrased below) are met: • The benefit is not cash, or a ‘cash voucher’.

• The ‘benefit cost’ does not exceed £50.

• The benefit is not part of ‘relevant salary sacrifice arrangements’ or other contractual obligations.

• The benefit is not provided for particular employment services by the employee as part of their duties (or in anticipation of such services).

Certified Public Accountants supporting local businesses with cost-effective accountancy and taxation service for many years.

We specialise in sole traders, partnerships, small limited companies and all types of self-employed businesses, as well as all aspects of accountancy and taxation, concentrating on the personal approach.

Speak to Pete or Bernard, anytime, for a free initial chat.

T: 01733 248180

E: pnbird@birdandco.ltd or info@birdandco.ltd

Text: 07305 355595 www.birdandco.ltd

183 Main Street, Yaxley, Peterborough PE7 3LD 20 spark

Don’t forget the ring!

If you’re proposing marriage (or civil partnership), don’t forget to bring a diamond ring! Perhaps you bought it a long time ago in anticipation of the special day that you pop the question? There is no capital gains tax charge on the disposal of certain ‘wasting’ assets, i.e., those with a predictable useful life of 50 years or less. However, as ‘diamonds are forever’, trying to convince HMRC that it is a wasting asset is likely to be challenging!

Practical point If the value of the ring is less than £6,000, the gift will still be subject to exemption from capital gains tax. If its value is more than £6,000, tapering relief is potentially available; the chargeable gain is restricted to five-thirds of the difference between the actual disposal value of the asset and the £6,000 chattel exemption limit. But if the disposal value is more than £15,000, marginal relief will not apply (i.e., 5/3 x (£15,000 – £6,000) = £15,000).

The above article was first published in Tax Insider (February 2021)

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Local Business Bonito Platito in Final for SME Awards Local business Bonito Platito has reached the SME Cambridgeshire Business Awards Final 2021 in the Best New Business* category.

Owner of Bonito Platito, Caren Schofield, will be attending the awards ceremony which is due to be held at Duxford Imperial War Museum on the 17th February.

The SME Cambridgeshire Business Awards are made up of 20 categories that allow any successful business in the UK to enter these prestigious awards. All entries are judged by up to 4 of a national panel of judges.

Godmanchester-based Bonito Platito was born during the first lockdown (Spring 2020); and has grown to the extent that Caren is now putting her dreams of creating fabulous food into a reality.

After successfully catering for a family birthday Caren fell in love with the work and decided to launch her business.

Such has been the exponential growth of Bonito Platito, that Caren now works full time on the business and she has aspirations to grow her empire even further by expanding into catering for weddings and business events.

The SME Cambridgeshire Business Awards are now entering their 5th year and aim to raise the profile of industrious, hardworking and enterprising SME’s locally.

SME stands for – Small Medium Enterprise. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are businesses whose personnel numbers are 250 employees or less. SMEs are also said to be responsible for driving innovation and competition in many economic sectors.

In the space of 2 years from launching her business to having several weddings booked this year, and catering for some large business clients (including Bellway Homes and Aston Martin) to now being in the final Caren acknowledges that she still has to pinch herself: “My success is driven by wanting to show my children that if you have an idea or want to achieve something, you absolutely can if you work hard at it”.

To find out more or place an order with Bonito Platito, find it on Facebook & Instagram or visit www.bonitoplatito.co.uk For further information on the business awards then visit: www.cambridgeshireawards.co.uk

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Feature

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Based in London Kings Cross on the 8th Floor of the Gridiron Building, we are ‘whole of market’ mortgage brokers whose aim is to only recommend products that are right for the client.

Are you looking for an experienced pair of hands to support your family with sleeping, feeding or a night of uninterrupted sleep?

Whether it be in person, by telephone or email, we can arrange tailored mortgages throughout the U.K, including Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales on almost any type of property.

With 17 years of nanny experience and 7 years as a dedicated night nanny and sleep consultant, Tina Southwood will meet your needs for the family, baby and yourselves.

Office Telephone 020 3714 5104 Email hello@thornhillsquare.co.uk Gridiron Building, One Pancras Square, London, N1C 4AG www.thornhillsquare.co.uk

Specialist support in overnight maternity care, breastfeeding, formula feeding, colic and reflux, sleep and feeding routines. Also a specialist in multiple births, premature births and sleep training.

Tina Southwood provides holistic care which meets the whole family’s needs, instills confidence in new mothers to successfully care for their new baby and allow them to rest knowing that their baby is well cared for and gently encouraged to sleep through the night .

Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

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SAMPLES ON YOUR FLOOR NEXT TO YOUR FURNITURE AND FABRICS

Sawtry Table Tennis Club Sawtry Table Tennis Club has now reopened after our festive break.

We have been pleased to welcome back quite a few of the club’s regular members, some newer members and some brand-new members.

The club prides itself on having a fun and leisurely atmosphere, being friendly and open to anyone interested in participating, promoting, coaching or volunteering in Table Tennis, regardless of who they are.

The club will be hosting another 8-week long TT Kidz programme for 7 to 11-year-old children (Junior School aged).

The TT Kidz 8-week programme has been designed and developed by our Governing Body - Table Tennis England to provide youngsters the opportunity to have some fun, while at the same time, meet new children, learn new skills, build new friendships, learn about teamwork, exercise, and learn how to play this great sport of table tennis.

The TT Kidz programme is aimed at 7 to 11-year-old children to encourage them to try table tennis for the first time. The overall focus is on learning some new skills, while having fun.

The programme will be held on a Tuesday evening, from 5pm until 6pm. Starting on Tuesday 8th of March until the 10th of May, but not running during the Easter Holidays (5th and 12th April). It will be held at the Club’s Venue: Sawtry Junior Academy, Middlefield Road, Sawtry.

The cost of this programme is £25.00 per child, which works out at less than £3.50 a night. This includes the essential kit for your child to take part in this programme and to continue their table tennis journey. Your child will receive a TT Kidz branded draw string Kit Bag, with a TT Kidz T-Shirt, an Activity Book, a TT Kidz Lanyard, a Table Tennis Red Bat and a box of 3 TT Kidz branded Training Balls.

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Sawtry Table Tennis Club meets for our twice weekly Club Nights on a Monday and a Tuesday evening. Club Nights are split into sessions and players are required to pre-book onto a session and not just turn up.

Because at present, the club is still running under some Covid-19 Rules and protocols.

Club Nights Sessions are: Monday’s

Tuesday’s

5:45pm to 6:30pm

6:30pm to 8pm

6:30pm to 8pm

8pm to 9:30pm

8pm to 9:30pm

W:- www.sawtrytabletennisclub.org.uk F:- @SawtryTableTennisClub

NEW Dates Booking NOW Open

SECONDARY TITLE

So, if you are interested in booking your child or children onto the TT Kidz programme, then go to the online booking system: https://www.ttkidz.co.uk/event/sawtryttc-tt-kidz/.

If you don’t have access to the internet, please send a Text or WhatsApp message to: - 07981 821556. *Not running during Easter Holidays (5th & 12th April).

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Appointment

Talk, Listen, Change Lives Feature

3rd February is “Time to Talk Day”.

It’s hard enough experiencing mental health problems without having to face the judgement, shame and isolation that often surrounds them.

Let’s take this opportunity make a difference.

So, throughout February, I’ll be offering free “time to talk” sessions to individuals and groups, aimed at those who experience problems and/or those wanting to help.

We can be aware when our mood is slipping, this could lead us to retreat from social contact, and isolate ourselves. We may not be able to reach out to others for help, but if some friends and colleagues are aware of the signs they will ask if we’re ok. If we believe it’s ok to say we’re not ok, don’t need to explain and don’t necessarily want to talk about what’s happened, being able to have a chat can lift the mood and the weight lessens.

Asking for help is hard, whereas asking if someone is doing ok is easy by comparison. We could help catch someone who’s sliding down to a bad place, and guide them in the climb back up. All it takes is a simple question, and caring about the answer. Having a cuppa and a chat, or a change of scene could mean the world and, possibly, even save a life. Too often we ask ‘How’s things?’ without really wanting to know the answer.

Joining in with Time to Talk Day can boost self-confidence to improve, or live more easily, with mental health troubles and help us understand that we’re not alone. Talking is important … it allows us to express our thoughts, emotions and behaviours, rather than keeping it all inside.

We talk about physical health, but mental health? … not so much, probably as we can’t see it or touch it. While it’s great to encourage talking about mental health on Time to Talk Day (and every other day of the year!) we must all remember to listen. Listening is really powerful.

When we speak openly about our own mental health it encourages and invites others to do the same. Often the first person we speak to about our mental health, in any detail, will be a health professional (for instance a Doctor, Psychologist, Counsellor etc.). We could be worried or ashamed, maybe crying and/or struggling to find the words to put across what’s going on for us.

Whichever professional we choose will let us talk at our own pace … “We’ll get through this together”. We can feel an overwhelming sense of relief, because the professional listened to us and put things in place quickly, leading us to feel supported and less alone.

The first step is the hardest but, once you do it, you’ll be surprised at the positive results. If you’re concerned about a loved one, don’t ignore it. Spend time listening and encourage them to talk about it in their own time and in their own way.

Please contact me if you have any questions about how I can help. You can make an appointment on my website or over the phone. Please quote “FEBCHAT” when booking.

I look forward to helping you.

Julie Jaina

Counselling, Hypnotherapy & Reiki www.juliejaina.com juliejaina@gmail.com 07875 504865

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Sponsored by

Julie Jaina

Counselling, Hypnotherapy & Reiki

One in four people in the UK will experience a mental health problem in any given year.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR WELLBEING

We all have mental health, just as we have physical health and it’s important that you look to take care of your wellbeing.

What can I do on a day to day basis to stay mentally well?

Mental wellbeing is just as important as physical wellbeing, and maintaining both is an important part of staying fit and healthy. This guide is to help you think about ways you can keep yourself well, what you can do if you are feeling overwhelmed and where you can go to find the right support for you if you need help. If you need support now or are feeling overwhelmed please turn over for more information.

Keep physically active Doing regular exercise can be very effective in lifting your mood and increasing your energy levels. It doesn’t have to be very strenuous or sporty to be effective – the important thing is to pick something you enjoy doing, so you’re more likely to stick with it.

Build healthy relationships with people

Learn to accept yourself One of the most important steps in maintaining mental wellbeing is to learn to accept yourself. If you value yourself, you are more likely to have positive relationships with other people and find it easier to cope with difficult times in your life.

Here are some tips to help you increase your self-esteem: Try not to compare yourself to other people.

Acknowledge your positive qualities and things you are good at.

Building and maintaining constructive relationships with people is an important part of staying mentally well. If you spend time around positive and supportive people, you are more likely to have a better self-image, be more confident and feel able to face difficult times. In return, if you are caring and supportive to other people, you are more likely to get a positive response from them. This is particularly important if working alone is a significant part of your job.

Learn to identify and challenge unhelpful thinking patterns.

Relax

Diet

Be assertive – don’t allow people to treat you with a lack of respect.

It is important to make time for yourself and relax. In order to look after others you need to first care for yourself. Selfcare is not self-indulgent, it’s essential. Do something you like, or even just take a fiveminute break to look out of the window.

Learning a relaxation technique, such as yoga, meditation or mindfulness (find out more at bemindful.co.uk) can also help you relax and reduce stress levels.

Explore the relationship between the food you eat and your mood.

Think about how regularly you eat. If your blood sugar drops you might feel tired, irritable and experience low mood. You need to eat regularly to keep your sugar level steady, and choose foods that release energy slowly like protein, nuts and seeds, oats and wholegrains.

Identify mood triggers

Are you having too much caffeine?

Keeping track of your moods in a mood diary can help you work out what affects your mental wellbeing and recognise changes in your mood that would be difficult to spot otherwise. For example, you may realise that seeing a certain person has an effect on your mood.

Knowing what affects your moods can help you take steps to avoid these situations or mitigate against the negative impact a certain situation may have on you.

Caffeine is a stimulant. Having too much can make you feel anxious and experience low mood, disturb your sleep, or give you withdrawal symptoms if you stop suddenly.

Caffeine is in: tea, coffee, chocolate, cola and other manufactured energy drinks. You might feel noticeably better quite quickly if you drink less caffeine or avoid it altogether.

Use self-help books and websites to help you change your beliefs.

Spend time with supportive people.

Engage in hobbies that you enjoy.

Sleep There is a close relationship between sleep and mental health. If you’re finding it difficult to sleep – don’t try to force sleep, get up, go to another room and try to relax there.

Do something soothing, such as listening to music, until you’re tired enough to go back to bed. If you are awake for long periods, repeat this process as many times as you need to.

time-to-change.org.uk timetochange @timetochange @timetochangecampaign

www.juliejaina.com juliejaina@gmail.com 07875 504865

Need support?

Samaritans 24-hour emotional support for anyone struggling to cope.

24-hour freephone helpline: 116 123 Email: jo@samaritans.org Samaritans.org

Mind Infoline Confidential, independent and practical support, advice and signposting around mental health and wellbeing. The team provides information on a range of topics including: types of mental health problems where to get help medication and alternative treatments advocacy.

The Mind Infoline Call: 0300 123 3393 Lines are open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (except for bank holidays) Email: info@mind.org.uk Text: 86463

Mind Legal Line The Mind Legal line can provide information and general advice on mental health related law covering: mental health mental capacity

Local Services

NHS 111

Find your Local Mind and the services such as crisis helplines, drop-in centres, counselling and befriending they offer here mind.org.uk/localminds

NHS 111 can help if you have an urgent problem. They can provide details of local crisis support services or advise on accessing your local A&E. To get help call 111. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

What can I do when I’m feeling overwhelmed?

Try a breathing exercise

Try a grounding exercise

For example breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.

Try to keep your shoulders down and relaxed, and place your hand on your stomach – it should rise as you breathe in and fall as you breathe out.

To reconnect you with your surroundings. Look for and find one thing you can see, one you can touch, one you can hear, one you can smell and one you can taste.

Take a break If it’s possible, step away from what you are doing. You could read a book or a magazine, even if it’s only for a few minutes.

Picture yourself somewhere you feel calm Even if you can’t physically get away, your imagination can transport you to somewhere you feel calm. Think of somewhere relaxing and peaceful.

You might choose a memory of somewhere you’ve been, or a place you have imagined.

community care human rights and discrimination/ equality related to mental health issues.

The Mind Legal Line Call: 0300 466 6463 Lines are open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (except for bank holidays) Email: legal@mind.org.uk

Listen to music Really listen to the music. Can you hear a drum beat or a certain rhythm? Focus on the music, and let other thoughts fade away.

Stay safe If your feelings become overwhelming, and you have suicidal thoughts or you think you may self harm, remember that you can pick up the phone at any time of night or day and talk to the Samaritans on their 24 hour Freephone helpline: 116 123.

You might also find Mind’s information on How to cope with suicidal feelings is helpful. mind.org.uk/suicidalfeelings

Cambridgeshire Libraries News

New Facebook page for families, follow /CambslibFamilies

All the information in this article can be found at www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/libraries

We hope all our customers had a Good Christmas and we look forward to seeing you this year?

GOOD NEWS!!!

New Bus Passes & Renewals

We are pleased to announce that we can now welcome back our regular groups! Please be aware that we are still limiting the numbers of attendees, to ensure we keep all our customers and staff safe. Unless ticketed, spaces for events will be on a first come first served basis.

Is your Bus Pass due to expire soon? It can be renewed online up to six weeks before it expires.

If you or you know someone who needs help doing this, we can assist them at the library – they may need to book an appointment. For more information please contact us on Tel 0345 045 5225, E-mail your.library@cambridgeshire.gov.uk or pop into your local Library.

Safe Space initiative for victims of domestic abuse Domestic abuse is a real and widespread problem in our communities and it can be difficult for victims to seek and access support.

Cambridgeshire Libraries have been working with the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Domestic Abuse Partnership to inform our staff about domestic abuse and enable libraries to offer appropriate support and signposting for victims.

In every library you can use a library computer to seek information and support without the risk of an abuser tracking your search. Library computers are free to use and cannot be monitored. The following libraries offer an enhanced “safe space”, where library staff can offer a private room, phone and contact details for appropriate support services: Cambridge Central, Clay Farm Ely Huntingdon March St Ives St Neots Sawston Wisbech Please visit Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Domestic Abuse Partnership website or look for the posters in all our libraries for local support information. The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is: 0808 2000 247. If someone is in immediate danger always call 999.

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Online reference library Cambridgeshire Libraries online reference library provides access to a range of information resources. Including online dictionaries, family history, biographies, and newspapers. Online resources are free to access with your library membership and are available in libraries across Cambridgeshire. Some online resources are also available outside of library buildings, you will need to use your library card and PIN to login.

Renew/request books: 0345 045 5225 As always Items can be returned to any open library in Cambridgeshire or Peterborough.

Look out for news on Cambridgeshire Libraries Facebook page, or search for us on Twitter or Instagram

0345 045 5225

Persaulf Farm, Grove Lane, Hemingford Grey, Huntingdon PE28 9GL

Covid-19

During this period of uncertainty we will be having as many conversations as possible via email and phone call Any details regarding pattern, style and colour will be send via email so that Government guidelines can be met

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