The Vine, Dunstable - June/July 2013 - Issue 53

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June/July 2013 Issue 53

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e u Jun en es M w ish Ne w D Ne

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Eat as much as you like from our wide variety of excellent Indian dishes!

Adults £9.95 Children (under 10 yrs) £6.95

• 10% Discount on collected orders over £15.00 • 10% Discount on bottled beers & Wines for take away only

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Vine

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Editors: Scott Nightingale Shelly Nesbitt

Advertising: Shelly Nesbitt 01525 222379 07852 453043 Mailthevine@yahoo.co.uk

Editorial: 01525 222379 07852 453043 Mailthevine@yahoo.co.uk

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the content of advertising and articles published in this magazine are accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors.

Neither do they reflect the opinion of this publication. The Vine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission.

Copy deadline for our next issue - 15th July 2013

This Month...

Summer Of Music 6 Gone Fishin’ 10 A Travellers Tale 12 Knickers - The Inside Story 16 What’s Best For You: Holidays 18 Home & Garden - Fencing 24 Auto-biographies 26 Safe Journey 28 Bottle It... Or Not 30 Nutrition Coach 32 Hair & Beauty - For Men 36 Aged Concerns 40 Puzzles 42 Out & About 44

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Let’s Get The Party Started Party In The Park is back and this year it is even bigger!

Party in the Park is back! Kicking the Summer of Music up a notch, the one day only event runs on Saturday 20 July from 12 noon to 8 pm in Grove House Gardens , jam packed with 8 full hours of entertainment, children activities and live music. Local bands and acts will take to the stage to entertain you ready for the fantastic tribute acts to Pink! and Jessie J who will be getting you dancing and singing ready for the main event, which is the ‘The Only And Only’ Chesney Hawkes.

There are plenty of other attractions for you to discover including an under 18’s marquee only called ‘The Mix’ with a great line up of live music and dance plus there is a mini golf course to complete, funfair, petting zoo and craft stalls.

There really is something for everyone at Party in the Park. The best thing about it all – IT’S FREE

Dunstable Live

5 hours of the Best of Ska and Reggae!

Come to Grove House Gardens on Saturday 15 June to sing and dance along to 5 hours of fantastic music to celebrate the best of Ska and Reggae. 3pm to 8pm.

This event is not to be missed and of course it's all free. Plus on-site there will be an outside bar and food units, so there is no excuse to miss this fantastic event provided by Dunstable Town Council.

3pm to 4pm – Tribute to Bob Marley 4pm to 5pm – Rat in the Kitchen a fantastic tribute band to the UB40 5pm to 6pm – Complete Madness 6pm to 8pm - An outstanding 9 piece SKA band '2 Rude

Dunstable Classic Motor Rally 2013

Not long to go before Dunstable is descended upon by classic motors from years gone by.

The Dunstable Classic Motor Rally is fast approaching; with a record number of applications being received this year making it guaranteed to be a great day out, and best of all it’s FREE. The event is taking place in Priory Gardens on Saturday 8 June from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm With cars and bikes from pre-war to present day, the Dunstable Classic Motor Rally is definitely an event to add to your calendar.

2013 Band Concerts now include Saturdays Dunstable Town Council is please to announce their annual Band Concert for 2013. New for this year some of the band concert concerts are on Saturdays and each Saturday concert will have their own theme.

Make sure you come down and enjoy these lovely free concerts in the beautiful setting of Grove House Gardens.

Sun 30 June Sun 7 July Sun 14 July Sun 28 July 6

Dunstable Town Band - Traditional Band Concert Salvation Army Band - Traditional Band Concert South Beds Brass Band - Traditional Band Concert Welwyn Garden City Band - Traditional Band concert

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I

n rivers and canals, streams, lakes, reservoirs and sea, angling is one of the UK’s most popular sports. It is estimated that 3.3 million people participate on a regular basis.

People enjoy fishing for a variety of reasons. Some love the peace and tranquillity they find outdoors. Others relish the opportunity to socialise with like-minded individuals and take part in competitions, usually organised by angling clubs.

Many pick up their rods each weekend because they enjoy the challenge of trying to outsmart the fish, deciding which stretch of the water to fish in, persuading the fish that the lure is food, and of course the thrill of the catch.

Fishing enthusiasts need a rod, something to attract the fish, nets, and suitable clothing. Rods can vary hugely in price depending on their size, quality and specifications.

Skills involve casting a rod, tying knots, and catching and releasing the fish. Fishermen (and women) believe it is the combination of good equipment and fishing skills that leads to greatest success.

There are a variety of different lures and baits. Natural baits

10

include live worms and maggots Artificial baits are often made from types of human food. Man made lures seek to replicate the food that fish eat. Different ones are suitable in different circumstances and most anglers have their favourites.

Three types of fishing are most prevalent in the UK: Fly fishing - Used to catch fish like trout and salmon, as well as pike, bass and carp. Fish are caught using very light artificial flies - made by tying hair, fur, feathers and other materials together. They are cast with a fly rod and a fly line.

Fresh water fishing - Uses water that contains minute quantities of dissolved salts. Some of the

most important freshwater fish are bass, catfish, pickerel, pike sunfish, trout, salmon, muskellunge, sturgeon and walleye.

‘Coarse fishing’ is the term used to describe fishing in fresh water for any species other than salmon or trout.

Sea fishing - This obviously takes place in or by the sea. Most sea angling takes place from a boat, but it can also be done in estuaries, on piers and from rocks. Piers and jetties are ideal places for catching mackerel and codling. Mullet, flounder and dab are often found in estuaries and harbours. Conger eel live in the foam covered seas next to rocky headlands, and bass can be caught from beaches.

There is a requirement for most anglers to have a rod licence and fishing permit. The Environment Agency oversees this and fines may be imposed for none compliance. Anglers must also abide by local byelaws.

Izaak Walton was a seventeenth century fisherman who wrote The Compleat Angler. He famously said, ‘I have laid aside business and gone a’fishing.’ Why not join those 3.3 million people who regularly do the same?

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11

A Travellers Tale

The Island on the Edge of the World

By Paul Heley

A

number of years ago, I was with my cousin and her husband (who had a reasonable sized, sea going yacht) and we'd spent a while sailing around western Scotland. At the end, Dick asked me if there was anywhere that I would really like to go and, without even thinking, I said St Kilda - somewhere which had been on my "would love to visit but doubt I'll ever get there" list for many years.

He didn't flinch!; and it was agreed that if I could get to the Outer Hebrides at the drop of a hat, we'd have a shot the following year. And, it happened: the 'phone call came, I leapt on my motorbike, charged off to Tarbert on the Isle of Harris and was met by Dick and Gillian a couple of days later. NB Speed was of the essence, and a suitable weather window was imperative, because the seas round St Kilda are notoriously tricky. Although you might get there, you might not be able to land (or even leave!)

Anyway, next day we loaded up with provisions and diesel (the boat had an engine as well as sails) and during the afternoon, we sailed westwards through the Sound of Harris headed for St Kilda 50 miles away in the North Atlantic. We arrived overnight, dropped anchor, and went ashore by dinghy early next morning. I must admit to having a tremendous feeling of achieve12

ment upon first setting foot on the land - it was as though something long anticipated could now be ticked off and was almost mystical.

I'd read a bit about St Kilda - dubbed "the island on the edge of the world" - and the more I read, the more intriguing it became. For example :St Kilda is not an island as such but is an archipelago of four islands and a number of sea stacks. The main island is called Hirta but there is also Dun, Soay and Boreray. The whole archipelago is a result of volcanic outbursts 60 million (or so) years ago and has geological affinity with Rhum, Ardnamurchan, Mull, Faroes and Iceland plus many other places.

Archaeological evidence shows it was first inhabited more than 3000 years ago and had been periodically inhabited ever since. Even before the Vikings (roughly 1000 years ago) and until the island's evacuation in 1930, people have been there continuously and it is amazing to think that folk have chosen to live on this remote, isolated, cold, rain lashed, storm riven island since time immemorial.

Apart from the ancient "souterrain" (literally "below ground") and "horned" habitable structures, Hebridean "black" houses had been used during the last few centuries.

These were oval in shape (to combat the wind), had very thick stone walls, a single door for both animals

and family, a single window, no chimney for smoke to escape (hence "black" because of the soot encrusted interior) and a turf covered roof held down with ropes attached to heavy boulders. There are stomach churning accounts of how people and animals lived together in these old houses. Forget about sanitation!

But during the mid 19th century, most (but not all) people moved out of the black houses into the usual idea of stone built, rectangular, cottages. It's important to note that there are no trees on St Kilda so wood (in the form of driftwood) was precious, and 99% of any structure was stone. There's plenty of that!

The population never exceeded 200 and this number fluctuated greatly due to disease, epidemic, lack of sanitation, high infant mortality, emigration, etc.

The life style of the St Kildans was unchanging: perhaps, and because they were living so close to the edge of disaster, their extreme conservatism and reluctance to change in any way is understandable.

They grew some barley, oats and vegetables where possible, ate the mutton of the wild Soay sheep on the next island on occasions - but rarely ate fish. Although the surrounding seas teemed, fishing could be very dangerous in little boats and, anyway, the islanders considered fish to be relatively tasteless.

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A Travellers

Tale

(Continued)

14

For their staple, the islanders had adopted a completely unique diet based on sea birds. Since there are literally millions of them eg puffins, gannets, guillemots, kittiwakes, fulmars to name but few, the supply was inexhaustable. Birds were used mainly for food but their feathers and down were used in bedding and clothing and their oil was used for cooking, lighting and heating. As food, they were either roasted, boiled or "grilled" in front of the fire. The fulmar was especially prized and was effectively "squeezed" in order to release its plentiful supply of oil.

There was also the requirement to store the birds for the winter time and, after plucking and gutting, the flesh was dried.

The landscape is covered with hundreds of "cleitean", ie small, stone built and turf roofed structures where the wind blowing through loosely packed stones could do the drying and the rain was kept out.

Such structures are unique to St Kilda.

In order to harvest the birds and their eggs from Hirta and Boreray, St Kildans had to be expert "cragsmen" in order to scale the precipitous cliffs - reputedly the highest in Britain. They climbed bare footed and it is suggested that evolution was slowly developing opposable toes in the men so as to cling onto tiny footholds on the cliff face. There is also the story of the "Mistress Stone" upon which a young man had to balance precariously in order to prove his ability as a cragsman and to be suitable as a husband and father. The graveyard on Hirta gives testimony to some of those who fell from these daunting cliffs.

Amongst the islanders themselves, money and politics played no part. Some of the more romantic writers have described the St Kildan lifestyle as "serene", "idyllic", "heavenly", "utopian", whilst those with their feet more firmly on the ground use such adjectives as "ignorant", "poverty stricken", "deprived", "medically unaware". Yer pays yer money and yer takes yer choice on this one!

The lifestyle was virtually an example of pure communism - everything was shared equally and everyone worked for the good of the community as well as for his own family. Each day, the men of the village met at a specific spot along "The Street" (singular) and decided what needed to be done that day and who would do what. This meeting was known as The Parliament. It is extremely poignant to walk along this deserted street, in and out of the deserted houses, trying to imagine the men, all dressed identically, deliberating the day's events whist the womenfolk would prepare food or weave cloth.

Although St Kilda was, to a large extent isolated, it was not totally removed from the rest of the world. On a good day, it is possible to see the Outer Hebrides - and to be seen. Consequently, each community knew of the other's existence and from times long past, St Kilda had come under the stewardship of Scottish clan chiefs who periodically sent their representatives to exact a form of tithe.

"Missionaries" had also visited St Kilda since well before 1700 and had converted the islanders from a type of GaelicNorse paganism into devout Christians.

Some of these missionaries stayed for some time and contributed much towards the general welfare but one, the Rev. John Mackay - from the hell fire and brimstone Free Church of Scotland - was there from 1865 to '89 and exercised an exceedingly harsh rule and most likely did more harm than good. The missionaries were not only preachers and savers of souls but were also the school teacher, the doctor and someone who could intervene on the islanders' behalf when dealing with mainland officials - they were powerful people who could not be ignored.

In times of emergency, the islanders had devised the "St Kilda mailboat" which was a variant on the "message in a bottle" idea. The "mailboat" would be launched in the hope that it would wash up on the Scottish mainland and acted upon. Sometimes it worked, and one even got as far as Norway.

On a grimmer note, there is the story of Lady Rachel Grange who had been banished to St Kilda by her husband because she knew too much about his Jacobite sympathies and was prepared to spill the beans. Marooned on St Kilda for 7 years unable to speak Gaelic (and the islanders knew no English) she slowly went bonkers. Following her eventual release, she died in 1745 - by then completely mad.

But over time, the St Kildans became increasingly aware that they were beyond the edge of normal society and that their life was unnecessarily primitive. This was emphasised during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as more and more visitors came to the island until, eventually, in 1930, the islanders asked to be evacuated to the mainland. By this time, there were only 36 of them left and they realised that they were, effectively, a species on the edge of extinction.

Thus ended the story of a particular group of people who, over centuries or even millenia, had followed a unique way of life.

All that now remains are memories.

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15

A

Knickers...

The Inside Story

recent reconfiguration of my bedroom led me to a bit of a sort out in the knicker department and it is fair to say that the results were quite surprising. It may also be fair to say that this article is best suited to women and that men of a sensitive disposition (or those who would like to preserve a sense of mystery) might wish to turn the page.

The grand total was 72 pairs, without further comparison it seems like quite a lot but if you then consider that if you, dear reader, are sitting in a doctor's surgery, have happened upon this publication on perhaps the 1st July, then, without the aid of a washing machine, I could survive, (although on many days, with a fair degree of discomfort – I will come to that) until precisely 10th September.....a whole summer of knickers.

So to categories; the first, most practical and frankly the point I should have stopped at, are the days of the week knickers, 7 days, 7 pairs, the work is done. However, there is the problem of colours; I never wear Sunday because they are a slightly Caucasian flesh toned pink with yellow trim and there is nothing nice about flesh of a certain age and certainly no need to match any garment to it but particularly not a garment that is likely to be next to the biggest expanse of said flesh.

They are also a tad frilly and

16

under some clothes may suggest a hint of baby knickers or maybe the adult incontinence pant and no-one wants to suggest that do they? So at best 6 days worth but only with the right outfit.

Ladies, I now come on to those knickers that are at the very back of the drawer, the sexy little numbers that were either bought for us (wrong size but you have to admire their optimism) or the ones that came in a matching set, sometimes even with suspender belt. Let me digress to the suspender belt for just one moment. Some of us, (yes me) did make brave attempts to breach the chasm between belt and stocking top with a piece of elastic under such tension that should either end fail, the recoil could have resulted in significant injury.

I think, unless sylph like, we mostly reach the same conclusion and that is, framing and concentrating the worst bits of flesh into bulgy mounds is not conducive to anyone reaching even the lowest heights of passion. I digressed, even without the aforementioned many of these sexy little numbers are not without an element of pain. G-strings, Tangas, Brazilian fit (not to be mistaken with other similar sounding services) and even boy shorts can, without any encouragement from their owner, travel to parts they were not destined for and whilst on their journey induce significant discomfort

and even pain – without going into too much more detail lets just call that minus 14 days of knickers.

Shapewear, so called because you get an aerobic workout pulling it on. Yes, since the days of Trinny and Suzannah we have been lulled into believing that shapewear will transform our figures into the goddesses we imagine and indeed if you have the required grip strength to pull them into the desired position the area for which they are intended is instantly and impressively compressed. It is unfortunate that the adjacent areas to this now become the recipient of transferred flesh – another piece of shapewear perhaps.

In the defence of shapewear I do have a slip which is very effective under skirts and dresses however, it compresses my thighs together so much that my legs are slightly spring loaded so that I can only take miniscule steps forwards under great effort and can manage the stairs only by moving my legs from the knees down.

Minus 5 days.

And so finally to the comfy pants, the happy pants, M&S cotton pants, the lacy 3 in a pack from TU pants, the spotty, flowery, pretty multipack pants from Primark, the okay to wear in a changing room pants, the pack them just-in-case pants. Hooray for the everyday pants........I'll let you do the maths.

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What’sBestForYou

By Martin Lewis

Jolly Holidays

Let your wallet take a holiday when you go abroad.

If you’re planning a trip away, act now to avoid pain in Spain, getting hustled in Brussels, or breaking the banka in Sri Lanka. If you wait till you go, it’ll be too late... and the costs can rocket.

Here are my 10 must-knows if you are heading abroad.

1. Cut the cost of car hire by sorting it out well before you leave home Don’t imagine you’ll get the best deal by leaving it until you arrive at your destination – often that can more than double your costs.

As a simple start point, use comparison sites www. carrentals.co.uk and www.kayak.co.uk to find the cheapest deal. In some locations it's possible to get a car for under £10 a day. Yet when you try to collect the car, the hire firm will try a hard sell based on additional "excess insurance".

The problem is, this kind of insurance can be worth it - have a scratch and they’ll be likely to charge the whole lot. So if you want it, plan ahead and get a standalone excess policy for a fraction of the cost via the comparison site www.moneymaxim.co.uk.

2. Get the best deal on your holiday spending by getting the right card for the job Choose the best plastic and the rates are unbeatable. The cheapest way to spend abroad is to use a specialist overseas credit card that you only use when abroad. Though you must repay it in full each month, preferably by direct debit, so there’s no interest or that more than wipes out any gain.

Most plastic adds a 3% ‘load’, so spend £100 of euros and it costs £103. Yet these top cards smash bureaux de change with near-perfect rates, as they are ‘load’ free worldwide. The cards include Halifax Clarity, Post Office, Saga (over 50s) and, for Nationwide FlexAccount holders ONLY, its Select card. Even poor credit scorers can get them too via the Aqua card. To find the best for you, read http:// www.moneysavingexpert.com/spendingoverseas Fail to pay these in full and you’ll pay 11.9-34.9% representative APR. 18

3. Urgently check if your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is valid These give access to EU state-run hospitals and GPs on the same basis as locals. If they pay nothing, nor do you. Four million of these cards will expire this year, so check you are not one of them and renew it now.

Don't leave it at home, as it's only valid if you show it. If you need to renew it, don’t Google it is as you’ll end up looking at scam sites that charge £15. You never have to pay to get or renew an EHIC. Ignore any ‘pay for fast-track scams’ – it's always free. Go via www.ehic.org.uk

4. Don’t pay the earth for travel insurance Getting insurance with your holiday is usually expensive, yet it's still important to get it at the same time for holiday or you’re not covered for cancellations. If you go away twice a year, including weekends, even if they’re in pre-booked accommodation in the UK, an annual policy is usually cheapest.

If you just want cheap do-the-job type policies covering medical and lost luggage rather than big compensation in the event of volcanoes, prices can be very cheap – as little as £16 for an individual in Europe up to £42 for a family worldwide.

Full help to find the cheapest, including over 65s, at www.mse.me/travelinsurance

5. For the cheapest deals, book flights early and package deals late With flights, early booking's usually cheaper – leave it late and you compete with business folk willing to pay big bucks. Use comparison sites such as skyscanner.net, travelsupermarket.com and kayak.co.uk to hone down prices. With packages, booking less than eight weeks before departure will get you the hottest bargains, provided you're flexible.

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6. Don’t wait till the airport to get travel cash They know you're a captive customer, so they give a shocking deal. If you must get it from the airport, at least pre-order for airport pick-up. To show the difference on the day I checked, it cost £270 to get €300 at the airport, but the same company only charged £250 for pre-ordered pick up. For the very hottest rates, do a comparison using tools like my www. travelmoneymax.com - though even this doesn’t beat the best travel cards (see point 2).

7. Always pre-book airport parking If you need to drive (public transport's often cheaper), cut costs by booking early – don’t just turn up.

There are a range of comparison sites which help such as skyparksecure.com, aph.com and fhr-net. co.uk. Local knowledge can sometimes trump this with much cheaper just off-site deals. Sometimes airport hotels have inclusive parking and occasionally that can undercut the parking itself.

8. Going to the USA? You need an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) Most UK citizens holidaying in the US must pay $14 for an ESTA before they go. They last two years or until your passport expires, so you don't need one if you've been recently, though double-check your status. Beware applying via spam sites, as you'll be charged more.

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This is just the start though, for a lesson in cheap hotel tricks go to www.mse.me/cheaphotels

10. Don't pay to pay for budget airlines Some budget airlines charge up to £12 PER PERSON return to pay for their flights. They get away with this by often having one no-cost niche payment system, so all others are 'added extras'. So tool up to avoid these. For Ryanair, outrageously, the only option is its prepaid Mastercard. With BMI Baby and Jet2 you need a Visa Electron.

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ier & Installer of Artificial Grass LET’S PRETEND…

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Domestic Fencing... Fact Or Fiction?

A toilet that won’t flush, sinks that won’t empty, grates that overflow, and an unpleasant smell are all tell-tale signs that there is a blockage or damage to the pipes, drains or sewers that service your property.

But who is responsible for carrying out the work?

There’s often confusion about who is responsible for maintaining fencing between adjoining properties.

This information may help.

Since October 2011, homeowners are responsible only for the maintenance of pipes or drains on their own property. Once they cross the boundary line onto the pavement or road, they become the responsibility of the water company. In addition, the water company is liable for all shared sewers (i.e. drains that meet from more than one building) even if they are on private land.

So, how do you find out where the blockage is? A chat with a neighbour or a quick look into the inspection chamber should give you a clue. Most blockages can be easily cleared and you could have a go yourself with drainage rods, but as it’s a dirty, smelly job, or if you are struggling to locate the source, you might want to call in a specialist.

Occasionally, blockages occur due to a collapsed or broken drain, in which case you will need a professional to inspect the damage and quote for remedial work. You can choose whoever you like to repair drains on your own property.

Fiction -

It is the owner to the left of a boundary who is responsible for maintaining fences, walls etc

Or Fiction? ng...

Fact - The title deeds show whoFact is responsible Fenci estic Dom for maintaining the boundary to a property

Fact - Though it is usual to erect a fence with the smooth side facing your neighbours, this is not compulsory. But if you erect a fence, you are generally considered its owner Fiction - If the fence you own becomes dam-

There’s often confusion about who is responsible for maintaining aged, between adjoining properties. fencing A property owner has an obligation to This information may help.

Fiction -

you are obliged to repair or replace it

Fact - You are only obliged to repair or maintain a fence if the deeds specify it, but if it becomes Fact - Generally, there is no obligation to erect a dangerous or causes damage, you could face Fact - The title deeds show who is responsible claims for compensation if you don’t barrier unless you need to keep pets straying, for maintaining the boundary to a property Fiction - If thefrom fence you own becomes damaged, you are obliged to repair or replace it or there is a clause in the deeds stipulating it Fiction - A property owner has an obligation to erect a fence or other barrier around their property Fact - You are only obliged to repair or maintain Regardless of the law, it is good practice to work a fence if the deeds specify it, but if it becomes dangerous or causesyour damage, way you could face with your neighbours not against them, so if your Fact - Generally, there no obligation Fiction Ifisthe poststo erect of aa fence face barrier unless you need to keep pets from straying, claims for compensation if you don’t or there are is a clause deeds stipulating it fence fence needs fixing, just do it, or get someone in you thein the owner of the Regardless of the law, it is good practice to work Fiction - If the posts of a fence face your way with your neighbours not against them, so if your who can.

erect a fence or other barrier around their property Fiction -

It is the owner to the left of a boundary who is responsible for maintaining fences, walls etc

you are the owner of the fence 24

Fact - Though it is usual to erect a fence with the smooth side facing your neighbours, this is not compulsory. But if you erect a fence, you are generally considered its owner

fence needs fixing, just do it, or get someone in who can.

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auto Biographies mo

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BIOGRAPHIES Volvo V40

Volvo V40

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Wr www.carwriteups.co.uk @carwriteups

GONE ARE the days of ‘wardrobe on which also now qualifies for red wheels’ or ‘only teachers drive those’ insurance premiums. jokes.

Volvo has some ike allstylish Volvos it is well V40 is no different. It is the GONE AREnow the days of seriously built but this has a defisafest carmight in its class, having with a cars in its stable and the V40 is the latest And, as you expect ‘wardrobe on wheels’ nite athletic appearance achieved the highest score one. turbo,ever therecorded £24,795.00 V40 D4, o or ‘only teachers drive about it. From the twin tailby EuroNCAP pipes to the low profile tyres in recent crash tests. This is an efficient motor.

Onisaverage those’ jokes. on 18 inch rims the V40 D4 thanks, in part, to pioneerLike all Volvos it issome well built but this has a return up to 65.7mpg, so it certa Volvo now has SE obviously means business. ing technologies such as the definite athletic about it. From endorses Volvo’s thinking seriously stylishappearance cars world's first pedestrian airbagthat it and Volvo's autonomous But does it deliver?

Absolutetheintwin tailpipes tothe the low profile tyres on solution for drivers who want a its stable - and braking system, City Safety, ly. The 1984cc five cylinder, 18V40 inchisrims the V40 D4 SE obviously means vehicle experience with for low emi the latest one. which also now qualifies 20 valve oil-burner churns reduced insurance premiums. out 175bhp, so 0-62 comes business. lowin running costs, but who don' a rapid 8.6 seconds. The wide sacrifice equipment, styling or sa And, as you might expect car sits low on the road and But does it deliver? Absolutely.takes Thecorners 1984cc with a diesel turbo, the on rails. Thefeatures". £24,795.00 V40 D4, on test diesel rattle is barely noticefive cylinder, 20 valve oil-burner churns out FAST FACTS able, even on start up, and, as here, is an efficient motor.

175bhp, so 0-62 comes Put simply, theit V40 delivers unp Max speed: 137 mphin a rapid On average can return up with8.6 all Swedish-made cars, 0-62 mph: 8.6 secs 65.7mpg, so it certainly ultra supportive seconds. The wide car sits low the onseats theare road choicetoin the premium hatchbac Combined mpg: 65.7 endorses Volvo’s thinking on long commutes. andEngine: takes1984 corners on rails. The diesel rattle without It’sfora grea cc cylinder that compromise. it “offers the solution 20 valve turbo diesel drivers who–want premium is barely noticeable, even on start up,isn’t and, butayou get what The V40 just about the cheapest Max. power (bhp): vehicle experience with low performance and grip though; as with all Swedish-made cars, the seats are - usually.

175 at 3500 rpm it also provides enough space emissions and low running ultraMax. supportive on long commutes. torque (lb/ft): costs, but who don't want to for four-up. The boot, al-

L

324 at 1750 - 2750 rpm though not massive, is decent sacrifice equipment, styling or CO2: 114 g/km safety features". enough to shove in everyThe Price: V40 isn’t justonabout and £24,795 the roadperformance thing a young family might Put simply, the V40 delivers gripPROS though; it also provides enough space need – from a week’s worth & CONS unprecedented choice in the of shopping to a couple of for four-up.

The boot, although not PROS FAST FACTS Quick√ baby buggies and all the gear premium hatchback sector Handsome√ massive, is decent enough to shove inwith young kids. speed:compromise.

137 mph It’s a that goes  Maxwithout Economical√ great car; not the cheapest – everything a young family might need – mph: 8.6 secs  0-62but Safe√ you get what you pay for Of course, safety is never cheapestworth X fromNotathe week’s of shopping to awith Volvo andthe Combined - usually. an issue mpg: 65.7

couple of baby buggies and all the gear that goes with young kids.



Engine: 1984 cc cylinder 20 valve turbo diesel

Not t

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Before you head off in search of the sun this summer, make sure your car is prepared for the trip with these eight essential checks: sure your car isn’t due for a service or MOT 1feelMake while you’re away. If there’s anything that doesn’t quite right, get it looked at well before your

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Take with you supplies of oil, water, antifreeze and screen wash, and a spare tyre. If you are travelling in Europe, you will also need headlamp beam adapters, an alcohol breathalyser, GB plate, spare bulbs, a warning triangle and reflective vests.

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The average Brit knocks back around 33 litres of bottled water per year!

The UK bottled water industry is worth over £1.5bn per annum. Most consumers say they drink it because it tastes better and they believe it to be purer than tap water. However, this is not necessarily the case.

Though both mineral and spring water are bottled fresh at their underground source, bottled table water may well be nothing more than filtered tap water - and some spring water is treated before bottling.

Water from UK taps is the most stringently tested in the world and is quite possibly safer to drink than bottled water which can easily become contaminated, but the presence of chemicals can make the taste unpalatable. Fitting a filter to the water supply solves this problem.

Water filters vary according to the amount and type of contaminants they remove, but a popular choice is an under sink unit which will remove a wide selection of chemicals. Costing anything from £100-£250, cartridges need replacing every six months and cost around £15-25. A cheaper, but less effective alternative is a jug filter priced at around £40.

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31

The Nutrition Coach

Beat The Bulge!

With the summer finally on the way many of us turn our attention to the holidays and our summer wardrobe! If you have decided that it is time to take action and get your eating habits back on track, then follow these easy and effective tips to help you get in shape.

Dare To Bare!

We all know crash diets are a bad idea, but impending holidays cry out for a quick fix. If you need to lose a few pounds before jetting off to foreign climes, we offer a few helpful hints and tips that will have you feeling fabulous by the pool!

Eat five or six small meals rather than three big ones.

This will keep your blood sugar level steady and reduce cravings.

Write down what you eat. This will stop sneaky snacking.

Eat slowly. Concentrate on enjoying your food.

Watch your portion size. Use smaller plates so you feel like you’re eating more.

Bulk up meals with vegetables. Raw vegetables are ideal because your body burns extra calories as it digests them. Limit the amount of potatoes, pasta and bread you eat.

Avoid processed foods which can be high in fat, sugar and salt, all of which encourage fluid retention.

Chewing sugar-free gum takes your mind off wanting something to eat.

Remember drinks have calories too... Stick to water and use skimmed milk in tea and coffee. Green tea is rumoured to help your body burn fat.

Investigate fat-burning supplements. Staff at a good health food shop will be able to advise you.

Be more active. Aim to exercise for 30 minutes a day.

And finally, get enough sleep. If you’re tired, you’re more likely to reach for a sugary snack.

32

Balance Your Blood Sugar Levels This will help sustain energy levels throughout the day and prevent cravings for sugary food. Follow the next few points to help with this.

Eat regular healthy meals – including breakfast A healthy breakfast will set your day off to a good start and prevent those mid morning sugar cravings.

Aim to have 3 small meals and 2 snacks a day, try and eat every 3 hours and ditch the sugary foods and drinks.

Choose Whole-Wheat/Wholegrain Bread, Pasta, Rice These foods are known as complex carbohydrates which take longer for the body to break down into sugar. They contain more natural vitamins and minerals than their white counterparts.

Eat Healthy Fats Healthy fats such as vegetable oils, olive oil and oily fish will actually help you lose weight. The fat in oily fish may increase the amount of calories you burn in a day.

Chew Your Food Well And Eat Slowly Your body will recognise when you have had enough to eat sooner, as it takes twenty minutes for the stomach to tell the brain that you are full.

Drink Plenty Of Fluids Aim to drink 1.5 litres of water a day to help you flush away toxins and keep you hydrated. Be aware that thirst can actually be mistaken for hunger pangs.

Avoid Caffeine And Alcohol Caffeine and alcohol are dehydrating and can also contribute to the appearance of cellulite. Include a healthy protein source in every meal. Proteins can help you feel fuller for longer as they take longer to digest. Healthy protein foods include lean meats, dairy, eggs, fish, nuts, seeds, beans, pulses, peas and lentils.

Use Smaller Plates A smaller plate can be a really effective way of reducing your food intake, without feeling like you have been short changed.

Eat Your 5 A Day! Fruit and vegetables contain a broad range of vitamins and minerals and make a great healthy snack between meals, eat with nuts/seeds for extra blood sugar balancing.

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For

Men

Traditionally men spend less time caring for their skin than women, but also spend more time damaging it through outdoor activities and hazardous work conditions. As the body’s largest organ, the skin works hard to provide protection against the elements and to regulate body temperature - and it needs looking after.

Achieving better skin can be quick and easy if you follow these three simple steps.

1

Cleanse your face daily, not with soap, but with a proper gel cleanser. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, but it should be strong enough to break through the grease that comes from open pores and active sebaceous glands, whilst gentle enough to be used every day.

2

Exfoliate 2-3 times a week. This dislodges debris from clogged pores below the skin’s surface.

Choose a scrub with granules in it to make your skin look smoother and brighter, and it will also soften the hair follicles to give you a closer, less irritating shave.

Fathers Day

Sunday 16th June 36

3

Moisturise daily. Showering and shaving open up pores which allow water to escape, making the skin dry and taut. Moisturising regularly replaces lost moisture and also helps prevent razor burn. Use one with SPF to protect you against the sun’s rays.

Follow these simple routines and your skin will soon look and feel much better!

Following the success of Mother’s Day which originated in the USA, it seemed apt of course to give Dads a chance to be recognised for a special day in the year when they too could be treated and pampered. It is acknowledged that a lady called Sonora Smart Dodd was inspired by the American Mother's Day celebrations and she planned a day to give thanks to fathers and indeed this special day has been celebrated in the USA since 1910.

Held on the third Sunday in June, Father’s Day is a day to honour those who play a fatherly role and visit them and or treat them to gifts to show how important they are in our lives. With the increase in availability of personally printed products, Dads often get given mugs, T’shirts or calendars. Depending on the age of the children involved a specially drawn picture or painted pebbles can be treasured for years to come - for those who are older a pub lunch is often favoured!

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39

Pensioners A . .. s n r e c d Con

Age

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View

Problems On The Horizon?

usually write about the present day plight of the pensioner, but this time I write about the future pensioner and what the future might hold for those retiring at 68 starting in 2017. You really should consider the situation as it will apply to you at that time. I don’t refer to the universal single tier pension. This will certainly get rid of the muddle and mayhem of the present benefits and credits shambles. No, I am thinking about the extra three years you will be expected to work before you reach state pension payment age.

The retirement age will apply to the whole working spectrum, from those in sedimentary occupations to those requiring hard physical labour. As most of us elders can tell you, when you reach the mid 60's things do not work so well within the human frames, knees don’t work so well, you begin to realise that your lower back becomes

rather stiff and painful, rheumatism strikes - it happens to us all eventually.

We realise that work we used to carry out at home gets too heavy to carry out, you hire somebody to do it for you. So my question is. How will these working in the hard physical labour area - what will happen to them or you when the job gets to the point when you can no longer carry out your duties?

The present system would not allow you a disability benefit if you physically could not carry out your job. They would send you to a 'fitness to work' examination, where you will be judged by a person whose qualifications are not known, given a few tasks to carry out and in most cases be found that, regardless of medical opinion, you are fit to carry out certain duties. The present system uses a foreign registered company and probably operates to a 'payment by results' scheme. You can

By Mike Newman

appeal the decision, many do and a large number of tribunal hearings find for the claimant, but all this takes time. People are suffering from this problem now - but do you want it in the future? In my opinion, such decisions as fitness for work should be left to the medical profession and not a system which is in power to ensure that any credit you might be entitled to is the least amount to be paid by government decree.

As I stated previously, the universal single tier pension will be an asset to future pensioners. Some of the more unfair methods employed to ensure the deficit shortfall is met, are not. Fair taxation is the answer, not expecting those who work for a living having to meet all of the requirements to balance the economy. One good question you could ask, if you cannot carry out hard physical labour, where will the sedimentary jobs come from?

Mike Newman is a member of The Dunstable And District Senior Citizens Club.

If you have a view on any of the issues raised why not attend one of their monthly meetings, held on the last Thursday of the month at St Marys Catholic Social Club, West St., Dunstable.

40

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Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles

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                                  3   2     4 3 

                Answers Answers on   on page 46 page 46             2        9  7 6    8    2 9   3

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                                            

                   GUTTED   

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43

Out&About

• Clubs • Groups • CLUB Events THE DUNSTABLE ORBIT • Community

“The more you put in, the more you get out” is certainly true for the members of Dunstable and District Orbit Club. Since its inception over 20 years ago, the club has raised thousands of pounds for local and national charities from events such as quizzes, nights, stalls HOUGHTON REGIS BOWLS CLUB Church in West Street Dunstable evening at the ‘Old race Hunter’s Lodge’ at Carnivals Houghton Regis Bowls Club are Or call for more information on etc. Whipsnade for a meal and speaker.

However, there is New moremembers to Orbit than the comradeship We areananOPEN independent club for ex-Rotarians and holding DAY onsocial Sunday are welcome.

For 01582 534357 and teamwork involved in organisingcontact fundraising similarly people have been in existence for 5th May atminded our green fromand 11am more information Johnevents.

SteThe emphasis is very much on having fun in all their nearly 3 years.

We are named ‘The Watling Street Club’ till around 4pm the only criteria we vens 01582 668033 DUNSTABLE GARDEN CLUB activities including a wide range of social pursuits such as as our members form a link along the Watling Street. need is for people to wear flat-soled cold winter it archery, is wonderful 10-pin bowling, cinema/theatres, guided walks, We meet every Thursday evening at theAfter ‘Oldthe Hunter’s shoes, all equipment and refreshTHE DUNSTABLE ORBIT CLUB to get out into the garden again andmeals etc. The club plan events to suit all progressive Lodge’ Whipsnade for a meal and speaker. ments be provided for our For guest more more budgets and many“The of them areyou freeput orin, at the a low cost. the colour and scents of Spring.

New will members are welcome. more enjoy information that want “to have a go”.

There will you getannually. out” is certainly true for the is only £10 contact John Stevens 01582 668033 The Club has monthly Membership outings to varibe experienced bowlers there to help members of Dunstable and District Meetings on the first and third Tuesdays of each ous well known gardens such asare Beth where necessary.

All agesSOCIAL from 12 CLUB Orbit Club. inception over D.A.W.G. monthFestival, at the Dunstable RugbySince Club,its Bedford Road , Chatto’s, the Wisbech Rose and abilities catered for at our pa20 years the club hasa raised Houghton Regis 8pm.

You’llago, be guaranteed warm We are a small and friendly Dunstable based social Audley End and Waterperry.

Our vilion which was completed for the thousands of pounds for local and welcome. group meeting once a month with a wide varietytalks of on different horticulturevening 2009 season.

Interested please Contact Mark on 01582 539379, national charities from events such speakers during the winter andring outdoor events and al topics start again in September to 535761 me Mary Comb 01582-518645 Julie on 01582 www.orbitclub.org.uk/dunstable as quizzes, race nights, stalls at visits during the summer. Each year we also arrange two April. If you are interested in joining Carnivals etc. evenings with a meal and professional entertainment. us theand annual subscription is £10.

THEwelcome BOGTROTTERS DUNSTABLE CLUB We would new members (couples singles).

However,BRIDGE there is more to Orbit Morenot info from - Mary We Chapman ForBogtrotters further information and a free contact The (Dunstable and Dis-visit why than the comradeship and teamwork meet every Monday (except bank holidays) in Chews 01582-603710 Brian on 01525 involved organisingfrom fundraising trict Walking and 754189.

Hostelling Group) House in High Street South,inDunstable, 1pm to events.

The emphasis is very much are a group of about 90 walkers, 5pm. We would welcome new members of all standards GARDEN CLUB KINGSBURY BOWLS CLUB on having fun in all their activities and you do not need a partner. hikers andDUNSTABLE hostellers. We run a is a small friendly club Ifsituated including wide range664485 of social puranyoneinis interested pleaseacall: 01582 Dunstable diverse Garden range Club meet on the second Monday surprisingly of activiDunstable suits such as archery, 10-pin bowling, evening of each at 7.30pm at theeast Salvation Armyunder the shadow of ties, including halfmonth and full day walks, BlowsThe Downs. cinema/theatres, guided walks, Community Hall, Bulland Pond Lane, Dunstable.

Club BLOWS DOWNS CONSERVATION GROUP hostelling trips, meals evening has been in existence for many years and maintaining The Green is open to the public from progressive meals etc. The club plan activities.

Join our friendly guided walk at blows downs dunstable a steady membership. The subscription Wednesday is only £10 per to Friday until Septemevents to suit all budgets and ofon July 3rd. the walk will be a short 2 milesmany but unduNew are always welcome. yearmembers which entitles members to attend eight winter to 4-00pmsunday ber, 2-00pm and 6-00pm them are free or at a low cost.

Memlating, at a leisurly pace. on the way we talk about the Prospective members areand invited to meetings with speakers a selection of to summer Dusk – at a reasonable fee.

Come is only £10 annually. flora and fauna of bership this wildlife trust owned nature reserve get in touch viaMay the onwards website, to give us interesting outings from various and sport – the and try a new onlywill dress Meetings are onchalk the first third which include the area of the pits and where the wild a well-known ring or just turn up venues. to an event or garden requirement is flat-soled footwear.

Tuesdays of each month at the orchids should be in abundance.

Visitors are very welcome at £2 each soBowls why not walk. andcome all other equipment is Dunstable Rugby Club, Bedford Meet at the far end of Half moon lane , dunstable atRoad 3pm. along and meet some of the members who wouldatlove Enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk available the Green.Tel. for further details, , Houghton Regis 8pm.

You’ll be tony bliss 01582 704664. to see fresh faces. www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk guaranteed a warm welcome. www.kingsburybowls.weebly.com 01582 865966 Sue or Julian CEILIDHS Contact Mark on 01582 539379, CHILTERN or Julie on 01582 535761 DUNSTABLE BRIDGE CLUB Chiltern Ceilidhs - a regular ceilidh/barn dance on the CLUB www.orbitclub.org.uk/dunstable We meet every Monday (except bank 2ndBREAKOUT Friday of theSOCIAL month. All ages welcome, no experiSt Fremund’s Church We arerequired a club for thelive over forty fives, holidays) ence and music from our house bandin Chews House in High not a singles club but a social club Street South, 1pm every month!

The dances start at 8pm (doors open atDunstable, from PRIORY Dunstable LADIES GROUP Westfield Road, for7.30pm) people and whotickets enjoy are going £7 out (£5but conc) with underWe 10swould welcome new to 5pm.

We meet on the second and fourth are on their own,Venue: also where they Club, members getting in free.

The Polish Albion street, of all standards and you do Wednesdays of the month 8.00pm can meet likeLU6 minded Dunstable, 3AZ people, make not need a partner. to 10.00pm at Chews House, High Contact: 475655, new friends01582 and enjoy a varied social If anyone is interested please call: Street South, Dunstable. email: chilternceilidhs@googlmail.com or01582 visit our life in a safe and friendly environ664485 We are a lively group of 50+, if you website: ment.

We www.chilternceilidhs.info meet once a week, we like interesting talks, meeting people now have a room in the Conservative and occasional trips out then why not DUNSTABLE DOWNSIDE WI THE BOGTROTTERS Club, High Street North . Dunstable joinMrs us! Nicola Talbot We meet evenings a monthContact: on The Bogtrotters andtwo HosAnnual fee -£26 (Dunstable and District Walking 12th June - Tea with the Queen the 2ndhikers & 4th Thursday at Watling telling Group) are a group ofcontact about 90 walkers, and For more information please 26th June - Switzerland from the LowerofSch. Bullpond Ln, at 7.30pm. 01582604847 hostellers.

We run a surprisingly diverse range activities, Sandy on 07813 262556 Train more info including half and full day walks, hostellingFor trips, meals andcontact admin@dunstableswimmingpools.co.uk JULY/AUGUST Chris Brewin 01582 520361 evening activities.

DUNSTABLE SENIOR CITIZENS We are arranging a visit to a place 13th June -”People I have met” Reg New members are always welcome. Prospective members What age would like via to live to?

Fossey you met anyone famous of interest, an Afternoon Tea, and a are invited to getyou in touch the website, give us Have a ring or 11th July - Wiltshire Farm Foods Luncheon.

Would you to event live itor with just turn uplike to an walk. demonstration and tasting Tel: Monica 01582 667030 or Dignity, Financial peace of mind, enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk Barbara 01582 606300 With a voice www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk WATLING STREET CLUB We are 865966 a local group 01582 Sue orfighting Julian the We are an independent social club THE HEALING TRUST fight for the over 50’s for ex-Rotarians and similarly minded Ardley Hill School, Lowther Road, Interested in finding out more? people and have been in existence Dunstable, each Thursday evening, Come to a meeting for nearly 3 years. We are named 7.30 - 9pm. No charge, donations We meet the last Thursday of each ‘The Watling Street Club’ as our accepted. NFSH contact Pam Hill on month at 2pm members form a link along the Wa01582 606182.

In the Social club of The Catholic tling Street. We meet every Thursday Come for interest or healing.

HALL FOR HIRE Regular slots available or for family parties

44

BREATHEASY Do you suffer from a lung condition?

Then why not come and join our local Support group - breatheasy Part of the British lung foundation.

We meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month at peter newton pavilion (Behind tesco) 2 - 4pm carers also welcome As well as supporting each other we have a variety of speakers and also arrange day trips out.

New members most welcome More info phone michael on 01582 602348 FRIENDS OF STUDHAM COMMON We are a friendly,voluntary group whose aim is to conserve,maintain and promote Studham Common as a haven for wildlife and a place for everyone to enjoy.For this purpose we meet as a work party on the third Saturday of each month (except Dec.) The work is not onerous and we enjoy the exercise and the good company –and a picnic lunch is provided! Details from Pam on 01582 872608 pamrumfitt@btinternet.com DUNSTABLE PROBUS CLUB Dunstable PROBUS Club meets on the second Monday of the month and membership is open to retired or semi-retired professional and business men. The Club’s main object is the promotion of good fellowship. Members enjoy a variety of social activities and organized visits throughout the year and at their regular monthly meetings they are entertained by after-lunch speakers.

If you are interested in joining the Club, please contact the Secretary on 01582 653732 LANGDALE CHURCH ‘HATTERS TEA’- informal neighbourhood group meets monthly on a Wednesday pm. Free tea/coffee & home-made cakes, quiz and raffle.

Friends and Neighbours- monthly on a Thursday pm. Speakers and free tea/coffee. At Langdale Church.

Other groups- table tennis, walking group and drawing for beginners Make the most of our community activities and meet new people in our community.

Tel Colin, Community Worker 01582602980 1st Totternhoe Brownies Small Brownie Pack ‘only down the hill to Totternhoe’ If you are interested come along for an evening and find out how

much fun you can have.

Spaces available Tuesday Evening ‘s term time 6.00pm – 7.30pm Ages 7 – 10 Please contact Zoe Hurry 01582 666942

CHILTERN GATEWAY CENTRE 50 things Activities Sunday 2nd June & Sunday 7th July 2-3pm FREE EVENT Bring the kids and join us on the first Sunday of the month get involve with National Trusts 50 thing to do before you’re 11 and ¾.

Each Sunday you’ll get to cross another fantastic activity off you list and get outdoors and discover something new! We’ll be taking the kids to explore outdoors so remember to dress for the weather.

Kite Festival Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th July Come fly your kite!

Join us over this fantastic fun filled weekend. There will be plenty to do from kids activities, face painting, entertainers, browsing the market stalls and plenty more. Be amazed as giant kites in the shape of bears, tigers and stars float across the sky and world famous display teams fly kites in breathtaking patterns.

For Information: Chilterns Gateway Centre Shop, 01582 500925, TEA TIME TALES Priory House Heritage Centre Tel: 01582 890270 Local History Talks with Tea/Coffee Thursday 2.30pm, - 4.00pm £4.50 per person June 6th St Fredmund - Fact or Fiction?

June 20th The Suffragettes July 4th Dunstable makes life easier, the coming of the amenities!

July 18th John Dunstaple, Medieval Musician

Orchid Hunt and Nature Walk Saturday 15th June 11am - 1pm £2 Join us on this fantastic walk and discover the natural gems of the Downs.

Hopefully the orchids will be in full bloom and you will be surrounded by hundreds. Our wardens will guide you through the different fascinating and beautiful wildlife and plant life found at the Downs Glow worm walks Saturday 13th July & Saturday 20th July £2 Discover these magical creatures Come and observe these fascinating little creatures at night your children will be so excited about this event. Your own torch for viewing would be essential So bring a little sparkle into your lives and witness this wonderful event. Each walk will be lead by one of our Ranger team.

           

               

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