The Vine Dunstable - August / September 2014 - Issue 60

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August/September2014 Issue 60

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Connecting local people to local businesses

Dunstable • Whipsnade • Studham • Kensworth • Houghton Regis

visit www.dunstable.gov.uk

summer is here!!

Summer Afternoon Teas have arrived summer savouries and sandwiches, summer themed cakes and everyones favourite British classic Strawberries and Cream Enjoy award winning Afternoon Tea, looking out on to award winning Gardens from £15.50 per person

Splash out on a Pimms Afternoon Tea and start the summer in style for only £17.50 per person Priory House, 33 High Street South, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU6 3RZ Tel: 01582 891420 Email: prioryhouse@dunstable.gov.uk

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Priory House, 33 High Street South, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU6 3RZ Tel: 01582 891420 Email: prioryhouse@dunstable.gov.uk

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Editors: Scott Nightingale Shelly Nesbitt

Cover photo taken from the new book “Dunstable Through Time” by John Buckledee.

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 September

This Month...

DunstableRocks! 10 A Travellers Tale 12 What’s Best For You 16 Consumer Clinic

18 Aged Concerns 20 Bedfordshire’s Night Sky 22 Hockfest 24 Health, Beauty & wellbeing 26 Book Review 28 At Home 30 In The Garden 32 The Importance Of Tailoring 34 Auto Biographies 38 Reduce The Stress Of Parenting 40 Puzzles 42 Out & About 44

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Dunstable Town Guides Promoting the heritage of Dunstable The Dunstable Town Guides offer walks and talks on the heritage of Dunstable for your clubs and societies, and scouting, guiding and school groups. Contact Booking Secretary dunstablehg@gmail. com Public guided heritage walks and ghost walks are also led by Dunstable Town Guides.

Dunstable Library is hosting regular talks by the Town Guides. For details see below or contact Dunstable Library on 0300 300 8056

Saturday, 2 August, 11am

Discover the Hidden Priory – meet as above

Saturday, 16 August, 11am

Dunstable’s History and Heritage – meet as above

Sunday, 14 September, 11am

Inns of Dunstable – meet as above The Dunstable Town Guides are supported

by Dunstable Town Council

The Rotary Club The Rotary Club of Dunstable shares an international motto of “Service above Self”. The Club members raise money during the year to put into their Benevolent Fund and once a year this money is distributed to good causes and charities local to Dunstable and the surrounding villages.

Each year three Antiques Fairs are held at the Dunstable Leisure Centre where all the profits go into the Benevolent Fund. The next Fair is on Bank Holiday Monday, 25th August 2014 and is open to the public between 10am and 4pm. Admission is a modest £2 per person.

How can you help?

By having a stall at the event. Please contact Alan Tarsey on 01582 872673 By attending the event By becoming a member of The Rotary Club and helping worthwhile causes in the community.

More information Roger Sharp 01582 606405 8

Everyone Can Help!

improve the Hayfield for wildlife The steep hills of Blow’s Downs Nature Reserve, rising from the edges of Luton and Dunstable, benefits from wildlife rich chalk grassland. Set in the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this is a great place for people, insects, birds and wild flowers.

At the heart of the Reserve is the Hayfield, a former arable field and commercial hayfield. The Wildlife Trust BCN lease the Hayfield from Luton Borough Council as part of the mitigation agreement from the Guided Busway. The Hayfield is to be managed for people and wildlife for the next 60 years.

The wildlife Trust BCN alongside local volunteers is improving the hayfield, with important plants such as orchids, cowslips and yellow rattle. The grass is cut for hay annually and the yield is sold to local riding stables for horse feed. Removing the grass and flowers once they have flowered keeps the nutrient level of the soil poor which benefits the wild flowers we encourage.

This summer and autumn the Wildlife Trust BCN is starting a project to speed up the establishment of wildflowers throughout the field, which will include in some places, turf cutting and sowing local wild flower seeds. You can help. Come an event on Saturday September 13th 10am to 3pm ( extended time) on the Hayfield, access from Jeans Way using the Busway crossing. You can plant some wild flower seeds from the Hayfield to take home with you and bring on. You can also sow seeds on the Hayfield itself. There will also be other wildlife activities as well as it being an opportunity for you to ask the Wildlife Trust BCN questions about Blows Downs.

Another way to help improve the biodiversity of this rich grassland is to pick up after your dog. Dog faeces over enriches the soil, encouraging undesirable plants such as nettles and thistles.

This inhibits growth of more delicate wildflowers such as rockrose and field scabious that require low nutrient soil.

Dog fouling currently is an offence under The Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996. While many people are responsible and clean up after their dogs, some do not, which can make the footpaths unpleasant and unhygienic for other site users. Dog faeces can potentially spread disease/infection to those who come in contact with it, such as children or livestock, and the potential crop, hay, can become unfit for purpose ie. animal feed. This summer and autumn the Wildlife Trust BCN is working locally with dog owners to emphasise the importance of cleaning up dog waste. One aspect of this campaign is highlighting key dog fouled areas, including the Hayfield, with spray paint, over 3 week periods and keeping a tally to see if the situation is improving. There is a dog waste bin provided by the council on Jeans Way and litter bins that can be used along the Guided Busway. If these are not accessible it is required that bags are taken home.

If you would like to help or would like further information please contact Ruth Sneath, Education and Community Officer on 01525 874317 or email Ruth.Sneath@wildlifebcn.org

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The Wildlife Trust Houghton Regis Chalk Pit explorer backpacks

Saturday 30 August 12 -10pm. Grove House Gardens Dunstable Rocks is back for another year to finish the Summer of Music with the final date on its calendar the only way it knows how!

Grove House Gardens will once again be hosting Dunstable Rocks for all of you who love to party out in the sun and into the evening! Set on Saturday 30 August, the popular free outdoor event runs from 12 noon to 10.00 pm starting off the day with local upcoming acts to entertain you, getting you ready for the main acts in the evening!

To kick off the evening, there will be the sounds of the Stereosonics, playing some of the best loved tracks of Stereophonics including ‘Dakota’ and ‘Have A Nice Day’.

Keeping things rocking, Grove House Gardens will be filled with the sounds of Oasis with the amazing tribute band Noasis singing some of your favourite hits such as ‘Wonderwall’, ‘Don’t Look Back In Anger’ and ‘Champagne Supernova’!

Finally, Dodgy the 90s rock pop Trio will be ‘Staying Out For The Summer’ and rocking the stage to finish off the final night of the Summer Of Music with a bang! Best known for their hits “Staying Out for the Summer”, “If You’re Thinking of Me”, and “Good Enough”.

This is the perfect combination taking you back to the fun 90s hopefully in the sun at Grove House Gardens this summer.

12 noon 1.00 pm 2.00 pm 3.00 pm 4.00 pm 5.15 pm 7.00 pm 8.45 pm 10

Exit Black Akiva Alexander Dale Band Crazy Dog Secret Genius Stereosonics Noasis Dodgy

Become a nature detective and get face to face with nature! The backpacks have all the kit you need and include mini- beast hunting equipment.

Hunt for bugs using sweep nets and watch for birds.

Come along on Wednesday 13th August from 1pm to 4pm and toin in with this free outdoor activity. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult. We meet at Houghton Regis Chalk Pit - follow signs from Lakeview pedestrian access point LU5 5GJ Wheelchair users please contact organiser in advance. Contact Ruth Sneath 01525 874317 or Email ruthsneath@wildlifebcn.org

Wildlife Youth Rangers at Houghton Regis Chalk Pit Join our small friendly group, help local wildlife and learn new skills, great for your CV. We carry out practical tasks and wildlife surveying, each session changes with the seasons. Booking essential.

Join us on Tuesday 5th August from 1pm to 3.30pm for this free outdoor activity For young people aged 13 to 19 years at Houghton Regis Chalk Pit, Lakeview entrance. LU5 5GJ Wheelchair users please contact organiser in advance For Info; Ruth Sneath 01525 874317 or Email ruth.sneath@wildlifebcn.org

Incredible Edible Celebrated It’s 1st Birthday on 6th July The weather was perfect, as was the Dunstable Music School Ukulele players, we had wonderful food brought in by our visitors the Co op helped with £20 food voucher also The Curry Garden made us some samosas. Red watch came and allowed the children on the fire engine. We had Rochelle North create fantastic fruit and veg face characters. L & D Hospital Radio ran a live link from our party to the station. Derek from The Travel Hub came and made smoothies. . All the prizes from the local people and businesses including Heads You Win, Creations, Jan Wilmot, Fay McDade,Nicky Roussou, Co op Funeral Care Leighton Buzzard and many more supporters over the last year.

Congratulations To Queensbury Academy!

We were thrilled to hear the news that Queensbury Academy, on Langdale Road, Dunstable, received a ‘Good’ rating after their recent Ofsted Inspection.

It’s great to hear of a local school doiong well.

Well done to all staff and pupils!

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S

A Travellers Tale Continuing Val’s education !?

By Paul Heley

12

peaking personally, I'd already been to India a few times having been in the Merchant Navy as a young man and also thanks to a couple of motorcycle trips through the Himalayas. But Val had never been there and, after some of the stories I'd told her about the place, was in no hurry to visit.

However, working on the principle that travel broadens the mind, I persuaded her to go on a cruise around the southern parts of the sub-continent. And she wouldn't have to rough it - this would be as a tourist which meant that she would be steered clear of any "nasty" bits which are carefully hidden away from tourists' eyes.

But such a trip would be very different from our usual type of holiday. We'd often chosen to go into the world's high latitudes (south or north) because of the scenery. There's something really wonderful about jagged mountains covered in unbroken snow set amongst shimmering, crystal clear lakes or fjords. And what is more, there's nearly always a unique wildlife to give extra dimensions.

So this particular trip - taken over New Year 5 years ago - would be a break from the norm. How did it go?

We flew to Chennai (the former Madras) and, next day, were taken on a city tour. Immediately, Val commented on what a shambles the place was - rubbish everywhere - and how chaotic the traffic seemed to be. Does India have a Highway Code she wondered. Doesn't seem to. But there's no road rage. Amazing!

We were shown various important buildings such as Fort St George and the cathedral of St Thomas. But the real knock-out was the Kapaleeswara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva (and about five million other Hindu gods). It's built in a most colourful Dravidian style and covered

in individual deities.

Next port of call was Colombo in Sri Lanka (the former Ceylon) and there followed a long coach trip into the interior and to the former capital, Kandy. En route, there was a stop at an elephant orphanage where young elephants who had lost their mothers (perhaps by poaching), or who had been separated from their herd, are cared for. This was quite an emotional experience and there was lots of oohing and aahing from some of the (broody) women.

But the reason for going to Kandy was to visit the "Temple of the Tooth". This is a huge building inside which is a tiny, impregnable, silver casket secreting a part of one of Buddha's molars.

I wondered if it was genuine or if it was like so many of the medieval relics so lovingly venerated in Europe but which have later turned out to be old bits of wood or bones of pigs or sheep or chickens. I asked if there was an Eyelash Temple, or a Toenail Temple but my facetious question was ignored.

The next place was Tuticorin on the SW coast of India where an even longer coach trip had been planned in order to visit you've guessed it - another (this time Hindu) temple at Madurai which is supposed to be the absolute bee's-knees. But Val and I decided to do something else instead.

We thought we'd have a look at the town and after a certain amount of form filling and general bureaucracy - the Indians are really good at this - were let through the gates and got on a 'bus. The journey took half an hour - 50p return - and we were dropped off in the centre of town and wandered around for a while. But Val became increasingly uneasy and horrified at what she saw and couldn't get out of the place quickly enough.

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A Travellers Tale

(Continued)

Perhaps she’ll believe me now when I say that “tourist” India and “real” India are very different.

After Tuticorin, we sailed the short distance to Trivandrum with its very pretty approach from the sea. Then another temple (which we couldn’t enter because we’re not Hindus - rather pointless really), a museum with immaculate gardens followed by a bit of shopping and haggling over prices. The rule is to offer something like a quarter of the asking price and settle on a half. Both sides do well on the deal!

But SW India really means Kochi (formerly Cochin) and we spent a couple of days there. It’s the principal city of the state of Kerala and was built on the rice and spice trade. It was clearly more prosperous and much less untidy and we wondered if this was because the local government had put down strict rules - it was communist when we were there. Rather surprisingly, there is a community of Jews who have lived in the area for centuries and we were taken round the Jewish quarter (where most of the shops seemed to be owned by Kasmiris!).

A visit to an arts and craft centre was highlighted by an demonstration of Keralan marshal arts combat.

This is highly energetic, very athletic, and requires much leaping about in an attempt to avoid flashing batons and swords. Definitely not the sort of activity suitable for elderly cruise passengers!

Then we were shown the Chinese fishing nets. These are stationary and operated by a complex set of ropes, levers and counterweights. They looked terribly inefficient to me but would be a useful problem for A Level Applied Mathematics students to find out how the hell the things are supposed to work!

Next day saw a trip on a rice boat along the labyrinth of canals between the paddy fields known as The Backwaters. The scenery is very tranquil, very pretty and very tropical and an absolute Mecca for birdy types who nearly fell overboard trying to photograph, for example, a Lesser Spotted Great Crested Whatsit bird! These waters are brackish in salinity (ie a mix between salt and fresh water) so give rise to a rather specialised ecosystem.

The evening’s entertainment was something totally unique to Kerala. Known as Kathakali dancing, it is performed by men only - taking female parts where required. They are dressed in fantastic costume and with incredible make up. The dancers act out, through mime, stories and poems from Hindu culture via facial expression and hand and eye movement which can suggest a complete gamut of emotions.

There was also a singer-musician who had a small cymbal (but whose singing wouldn’t get far in the Top Ten). Overall, the experience was utterly fascinating and something not seen outside Kerala.

14

The end of the trip was, for some, their idea of Paradise when we travelled to some of the palm fringed tropical coral islands with their white sand beaches.

First, there were some I’d never heard of - the Lakshadweep Islands - which are largely uninhabited. I know I’ll be laughed out of court, but after I’d swum in the warm sea for half and hour, had a look at what the island had to offer - nothing - and watched hundreds of hermit crabs scampering about on the beach, I was bored out of my skull. How anyone can spend a fortnight corpsed out on a beach doing absolutely nothing is beyond me. But that’s my problem.

Finally, we hit Male, the capital of the Maldives. An incredible statistic is that the highest point is only a few feet above sea level - so the fear of a rising ocean and inundation due to global warming is very real.

There was one chap on board who was ENORMOUS and when he decided to take a dip, everyone held their breath!

Unfortunately, our guide for the trip round town looked about 10 years old and his answer to every question was “I’m not too sure about that”. But said with a flashing smile!

There were two things which immediately impressed me about Male :- 1) the place is extremely clean and tidy - so unlike India - and 2) there must be at least two little motorbikes for every inhabitant - they are everywhere.

We flew home from Male and arrived 22 hours later to be greeted by a wintry London. But, even so, when asked whether we would prefer a “tropical” holiday or a “high latitude” one, I think we’d both choose the latter. It’s mainly because of the scenery; and when one of the lady passengers stated that Sri Lanka was the most beautiful place on earth, my comment was that, clearly, she’d never seen the Alps, the Norwegian fjords, the Canadian Rockies, the Southern Alps of New Zealand, the Himalayas, Alaska, Antarctica, Spitzbergen - and a host of other places.

Just because it’s hot doesn’t make it beautiful. I rest my case m’lud!

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15

What’sBestForYou

Martin

LEWIS

Credit Scoring

By Martin Lewis

Credit scoring has become a key part of our financial lives. It impacts far more than most people think. It’s not just about whether you can Tackle your bills get mortgages, credit cards and loans, but can also effect contract mobile phones, monthly car insurance, bank accounts, even if you can pay energy bills the cheapest way. comparison on any Ofgem-approved comparison site – Winter is coming. Don’t wait until you’re knee-deep in

just search for The Confidence Code at theEven white stuff toaccepted, sort yourwe bills.

Here, truly reference lapsed to apply, it should boost your if you're live in a prevention 3 Your credit files. These www.ofgem.gov.uk to see the full list. beats – tackling bills now meanscome you can take 'ratecure for risk' world,your so credit scoring score. from either Equifax, Experian thethen financial bitewhat out you of winter chills… dictates pay too.

Many or Callcredit and contain info on the you're not what online, use a comparison with phone people get unstuck by this. They apelectoral roll, courtIfjudgments, 5 Never miss or be lateaon repayFree and cheap even boilers (for some). plyloft forinsulation today's record rates, but such as Energyhelpline onerrors 0800 can 074 hurt 0745, or Set credit applicationsservice, you've made, ments. Small large.

While loft insulation free-for-all's some you will haveuSwitch findthe they're charged more.

So here’sended, products and if you've paid051up a direct debit to be sure you never on 0800 5493. stillwhat be entitled to to some serious free energy-saving you need know… on time. miss. Do this even if just for the miniPaying energy bills bymum monthly direct debit’s to call 6% measures.

You DON'T have a universal credit repayment, then youupcan cheaper. rating - there's no blacklist. This is a However, they don’t know everyup and pay more on top each month, myth.

In the there's firms no univerIf youyour can,criminal do, as it’ll see usually discounted bills of up Most of the bigUK, six energy offer free thing. boilers, They don’t know it asmean an insurance policy. sal credit rating or score, no to 6%speeding less, so contact your provider to check. Though record, typically worth £2,000, and there's free insulation, usuallymedical worth history, blacklist banned people.

Each always regular meter readings for accuracy, your fines, loans,do declined 6 Don't let 'paid-for credit as scores' about £300.ofCrucially, you don't need to be withsalary, the student lender scores you differently and applications don’t get too worry you.

In recent bill is–estimated.

If it’soverly too high, you have a rightyears to ask energy provider to get it, but you do generally need anand more secretly. So a rejection by one doesn’t conspiracy theoristfor about it toit.be lowered. credit reference agencies have started income under £16,000, and to be on income-related mean a rejection by all. Their aim is to flog these, but don’t take too much benefits or pension credit.

I can’t definitely say you’ll to see if you match their profitable Got more electricity only? notice.

You canThey’re still save.

How to make yourself attraconly based on your qualify, but itwish is worth the wellcustomer list. Achecking. key part isAlternatively, asWithfor electricity you can cheapinfo fix lenders to save tive. Getting accepted credit is only, credit file,still notget theaother meaning but stuttering Green Deal initiative is designed sessing the risk of non-repayment. If just- follow the info above. those on Economy 7, like going on the pull like people, look at,For and remember each lender to let youhigh, pay many for things like underfloor double that's won't lend to you; heating, assessing trickier. It’s onlydifferently. really a boon those different lenders find differentisthings scores Onefor may see who glazing and solid wall insulation, 'savings' you but some specialist lenders willfrom like the attractive.

It’s moreuse art at than science, cancelling as –good as it least 40% of their energyaatcredit night.card If not don’t youon more as they chargewhether you make energy bills.can Deciding it’sbut right forare you there somebother. cosmetic changes reduces available credit, another as Full help to decide at www.mse.me/eco7 high. is complex, so for full help read that work for most. Here are 10 tips: bad as it’s closing down a long term Yet even those who are good risks Can you find your stopcock? www.moneysavingexpert.com/greendeal relationship. can be rejected, because the lender No sniggering winter frozen pipe bursts can create an 1 Get on the electoral roll. If not,-getthinks youand won't it money. Or Save £100s beatmake the hikes. often worsened many apting credit's tough.average Check if£7,000 you're of ondamage, 7 Payday loans can kill as mortgage perhaps you're applying for a credit Rather surprisingly, fixing energy, where you lock in a set scrabble round searching for their stopcock - the mains it and apply via www.aboutmyvote. plications.

Some mortgage underwritcard, but it wants to cross-sell mortrate, is now cheaper than a normal switch.co.uk.

Five of the bignotwater If you're eligible, write ers simply won't lendfloods. to anyone with off switch for ages as their home scores you on now how announced likely six gages, energysoproviders have ahikes, noticeand on all the credit files that payday loans. you are to get one.

Take the time to find it now – mine is under the kitchen their best new prices are costlier than theyou’ve cheapest fixed proof of residency. sink. Others find theirs thewith bathroom or insideFirst a go tariffs. So right now you can get the very cheapest deals 8 in Deal unfair defaults.

What and theyitknow you. certainty. yours working, youput may want to call to the firm that them there anda 2 Stability's good.cupboard.

If possible,Ifput a isn’t available, comesabout with no-hike Lenders assess you with plumber now, beforeask it’sitato problem. remove them. If not ask for a landline, not mobile, on applications. keyexception pieces oftoinformation: ‘notice of correction’ to be added to The3only this is a variable (ie, subject to Choosing and file eating? your credit where you can explain 3 Beware over applying.

Toobetween many heating hikes) tariff from minnow Spark Energy – though it hasn't If you're seriously behind, or in general financial hardship 1 Your application form.

Many briefly why it’s unfair and appeal to applications for products especially hiked (yet?), needs paying upfront, and feedback ain't -time as far too many are the after the hikes - you may be eligible underrate how crucial this is. Be Financial Ombudsman. in a short space of can hurt.

So great, so I’m ignoring it. foraspecial help. Call the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 consistent on each application form, if you’re about to get mortgage, to check.

Plus if9anyone home was An born on job title,fix salary.

Regular inconsistdon’t for lots66 of 99 credit cards just Check in foryour address errors. old, Theeg, cheapest comes from E.on for a year, butapply slightly encies trigger rejection hit from or before you're due upmobile to £300 in taxbefore. though5isJanuary often 1952, active, but unused phone longer andcan only a touch more as areyou deals EDF One or problem a ‘fraudCrucially, score’ trigger. only way rate you’ll registered to yourshould old address could freewhat winter fuel payments.

Payments be made Npower. these two have no exit the penalties.

Soto know get isthe to price apply, so the system is antieven cause mortgage rejection. automatically, but if you’ve nevera had it before then you on the off-chance the Prime Minister delivers Anypromised, past dealings shopping around. may need to register - see www.gov.uk. cuts2he’s andwith the you. evenAmore unlikely event lender you've banked with can inter10 Don't withdraw cash on credit that they’ll be so substantial that other tariffs elsewhere Plus anyone on specific income jobseekers' rogate your behaviour far more than cards.

This support, is both expensive and seen 4 Time it right. Problems stay on are cheaper, you'll be free to leave. allowances or pension getsof£25 in money cold weather others. This can work both for and evidence poor manageyour file for 6 years, applications for 1 ascredit against always you. do the numbers for youryear. every 7ment days -it's sub-0 C. avoid. wait until for they've However, own So if you canpayments circumstances.

To check if you can save (you may be on 16 an older, cheaper deal), and who your winner is, you can

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17

Consumer Clinic

By Jonathan Vernon-Smith

How To Deal With Debt

You can listen to The JVS Show every weekday morning from 9am on BBC Three Counties Radio

It is a sad reality that most of us are in debt these days. With the high cost of housing, it’s perhaps unsurprising that people are having to borrow more money than they really should.

For many, this debt is perfectly manageable. However, it only takes a problem like losing your job, or ill health to suddenly turn manageable debt into an utter nightmare.

If you are having financial difficulty and realise that you are unable to meet your debt responsibilities, the most important thing to do is to face up to the reality. As tempting as it may be to bury your head in the sand and ignore the demand letters, it is simply going to make the problem much much worse.

When you have accepted the situation, you need to sit down and look openly and honestly at the money you have coming in, and the money going out. Even if the prospect is thoroughly depressing, you need to understand exactly what the numbers are before you go any further.

At this point, I would advise 18

contacting the companies you owe money to and explaining the situation. They may be able to give you a 'payment holiday' until you get yourself back on your feet again. They are also much more likely to be helpful if you've been open and honest with them rather than ignoring them and hoping they will simply go away. Remember, they want their money, so it's in their interest to work with you as opposed to against you.

When you've worked out how much money you can put towards your debts, you then need to prioritise them. The most important debts are: mortgage or rent arrears, gas and electricity arrears, council tax arrears, court fines, income tax or VAT arrears and TV licence arrears.

If you fail to pay these, you could lose your home, and in the most extreme circumstances, could end up in prison.

The less urgent debts include: benefits overpayments, credit cards and loans, water and sewerage bills (you can't be cut off for water debts), student loans, loans from family and friends

and parking penalties from local authorities. That's not to say that you shouldn't bother trying to pay them, but these should be at the bottom of the list.

Hopefully, with careful budgeting, balancing and communication, you'll be able to manage your debts until you get back on your feet. However, if you simply cannot pay what you owe, then there are some options for you. However, be aware they do not come without costs.

Solutions such as debt consolidation, or even bankruptcy can be the only way out for some people but please look at the pros and cons before committing.

I would always advise that you contact your local citizens advice bureau or the debt charity 'Step Change' on 0800 138 1111 before making any further decisions about the management of your debt.

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19

Pensioner’s A . .. s n r e c d Con

Age

View

The Blue Badge

Could It Be Modified?

By Mike Newman

D

isabled parking, a boon to those who have difficulty in walking any distance or difficulty in getting in and out of cars. It works well and helps those who need its benefits. Rather an expensive aid to obtain plus a 16 page application form to complete, but if you comply with all the rules such a badge must be worth the while of the disabled person applying.

Having just become involved with a 96 year old applying for a continuance of a blue badge I began to consider if the blue badge could be expanded to help others who are disabled by the frailties of old age. Because, if you think about it, the disabled parking space is in place to ensure that the frail and elderly can exit the car they arrive in with a little more ease than the normal parking space.

What I am really trying to

say is, should the blue badge scheme expand to cover the pensioners who have children, or family, who own a car and regularly take the person out, shopping and trips out to various venues which they normally could not attend.

It would, I suggest, cover all pensioners who wanted to avail themselves of such a scheme. The existing blue badge requirements would cover those who meet the criteria already laid down by the authorities. The difference would be in the case of the pensioner badge holder is that the applicant would hold the badge and not the vehicle owner. This would ensure that such a badge could not be misused by a car owner who was not disabled, the owner of the badge would be held by the passenger.

This proposal would also ensure that any driver, carrying and elderly passenger as a

favour or under some charity that supplies volunteer drivers would use disabled car parking badges as held by the passengers.

It does make sense when you think about it. A pensioner who has difficulty in walking and difficulty exiting a car should be able should be able to use a disabled parking space. At the moment they have to struggle in the standard parking bay or not able to be dropped off at the market or shop. It would open up a larger vista to the elderly disabled and as such be very welcome to the badge holder.

Could it work? Should it work? Perhaps a trial scheme should be tried?

It would be a marvellous move forward for those, who through no fault of their own are house bound.

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.

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21

Bedfordshire’s Night Sky Looking Up! August & September 2014 Make a Date with the August Supermoon:

Sunday 10 August sees a giant full moon rise over Bedfordshire. Our silver-faced celestial neighbour pulls closer to the Earth that evening than at any other point in 2014. Watch the ‘supermoon’ rise in the east from 8pm onwards. It’ll make for a spectacular sight and photo opportunity no matter where you are across the county.

Catch the Perseids Shooting Star Bonanza:

Have you ever seen a shooting star? If not then the night of Tuesday 12 August to Wednesday 13 August is the perfect time to look for them.

Cast your eyes high up to the north-east from 11pm onwards. Be patient and you might catch

Scetch of Mars through a telescope.

22

By Seb Jay

some bright streaks of light lasting no more than a second or two as Earth crosses the path of the Perseids meteor shower.

Go Hunting for Star Clusters:

The summer Milky Way stretches high overhead during August and September. Embedded within its faint glow are numerous star clusters of blue, white and orange stars. You’ll need high-powered binoculars or a telescope to see the clusters, and you’ll need to choose somewhere dark away from streetlights on a night when the Moon is not visible. A location like the Chilterns between 20 August and 30 August or from 15 September to 28 September will be ideal. seb@darkskytelescopehire.co.uk Dark Sky Telescope Hire www.darkskytelescopehire.co.uk

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23

Hockfest Saturday 23rd August

Meet Big Brother winner, Craig Phillips

Following last year’s successful Hockfest ’13 event, Hockliffe residents will come together to take part in a day packed with sporting and cultural activities.

There will be something for everyone on the day with activities for all ages, including bouncy castle, face painting, various stalls and arts and crafts at Kilby Road Recreation Ground. On sale throughout the day will be a tempting BBQ and the entertainment will be provided by local bands. The fun will begin from 1pm Businesses in Hockliffe are also involved.

Classic Motorcycle’s will be holding an Open Day with Vintage and Classic Bikes, music, police motorcyclists and a Hog Roast from 10am Rugged and Tough will have the first Big Brother winner Craig Phillips meeting and greeting, Team Underdog with their 4X4s and Chris Pratt STIHL TIMBERSPORTS GB Team member 2012-2013 (Stock Saw).

British Championship 2012 Sports Nutrition will be holding a Boditronics taste test open day and free help and advice with Mark Etherden UKBFF British Finalist and other top body builders from 11am.

Totternhoe Players 25 years young!

This year the Totternhoe Players are celebrating The Family Business with 130 years of recommendation their 25th birthday. And some of us have been there right from the very start! The Group puts on three productions a year – in the spring there are comedies, in the autumn generally a murder mystery. And the biggest show of the year is our PANTOMIME in February.

Totternhoe Players welcomes new members.

We are a friendly, open group of people, with a variety of interests, ages and abilities. If you join us wanting to act, then you will probably be cast sooner than you expect, andOn if that’s not your Appliances & TV’s Kitchen bag, then there are always of other roles. installation on Gas & Built-in Appliances) within a 15plenty mile radius (excluding We aim to make the most of the talents you can bring to our group; everybody gets a chance 4-8 High Street, Edlesborough, Dunstable, Beds LU6 2HS to join in with whatever they can do. If your 01525 220208 Fax: 01525 222802 interests are in one of the Tel: back-stage disciplines; www.janesltd.co.uk lighting, sound, set construction, costume, etc., then you will be very welcome too.

24 6

Hockfest 2014 Hockliffe 23rd August

Some of Rugged & Tough’s “Hockfest” Events….

Meet Craig Phillips

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7 25

Health Beauty & Wellbeing Back To School

Bugs & Beasties How does it happen? Your family has enjoyed a happy, healthy six week summer holiday, but within just days of returning to school your child comes down with a cold, or develops an itchy skin condition, or catches nits. Why, when they need to be settling into a new routine and you need to be back at work, do they suddenly get ill?

Like it or not, children gathering in schools is one of the main ways germs circulate in communities. Their immune systems are less mature, they tend to be in close contact, and they have ‘germy’ habits like sticking fingers or pencils into their mouths, so it is inevitable that they are going to come home with something nasty at some point.

That said, most illnesses can be avoided if a few good practices are followed. Top of the list is to make sure that your child’s immunisations are all up to date, and that all family members have had a seasonal flu vaccination, where appropriate. Prevention is definitely the best medicine.

Teach your child ‘germ etiquette’. This means staying away from other children who may be sneezing or coughing, covering their own coughs and sneezes by using tissues that should be thrown away immediately, and avoiding head to head contact with others. If your child is older, warn them about sharing items such as lipstick, lip balm, make-up, razors, creams, lotions and other personal items such as towels and sports kit.

There are some germ hotspots in schools, and cafeteria trays are one of them! One survey found that there were more bacteria per square inch on a cafeteria tray than there were on a toilet seat, probably because the trays don’t get Next, make sure they wash their hands enough cleaned as often. If your child drops food on a - and properly! The most common way to catch tray, they should throw it away! illness is through the mouth, eyes or nose after Finally, your child can build up their immunity the hands have been in contact with infected surfaces. A thorough wash with soap and warm by getting enough sleep and exercise, eating a well balanced diet that includes lots of fresh water to the back of the hands, in between the fruit and vegetables, and by drinking plenty of fingers and around the nails for 20 seconds (as long as it takes to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice!) water. Take these preventative measures and hopefully going back to school will be a happy, - before eating or drinking, after a visit to the toilet, blowing their nose, or touching animals healthy time for everybody! and waste, should be the minimum.

26

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Monday Redborne South, Monday7.30pm 7.30pm RedborneSchool School South, pm Monday & Wednesday at 7.45 Mon Redborne School South, Mon7.30pm 7.30pm Redborne School South,Ampthill Ampthill Ampthill &&Shefford Lower School Ampthill Shefford Lower School Brewers Hill Sch, Dunstable Monday 7.30pm Redborne School South, Monday 7.30pm Redborne School South, and Shefford Lower School and Shefford LowerHall School Tuesday 6pm Maulden Village (lite class) Tuesday 6pm Maulden Village Hall (lite class)Ampth Mon 7.30pm Redborne School South, Mon 7.30pm Redborne School South, Tues 6pm Maulden Village Hall (Low Impact) &&Shefford Lower School TuesAmpthill 6pm Maulden Village Hall (Low Impact) Ampt Ampthill Shefford Lower School pm Thursday at 7.30 Wednesday 7.30pm Flitwick Lower School && Wednesday 7.30pm Flitwick Lower School and Shefford Lower School and Shefford Lower School Wed Flitwick Lower School and Wed7.30pm 7.30pm Flitwick Lower School and Tuesday 6pm Maulden Village Hall (lite Tuesday 6pm Maulden Village Hall (litec Leagrave Primary Sch, Strangers Way, Luton Robert Bloomfi eld School, Shefford Robert Bloomfi eld School, Shefford Shefford Lower School Shefford Lower School Tues 6pm Maulden Village Tues 6pm Maulden VillageHall Hall(Low (LowImpa Imp Wednesday 7.30pm Flitwick Lower Schoo Wednesday 7.30pm Flitwick Lower Scho Thursday 7.30pm Redborne School South, Thursday 7.30pm Redborne School South, Thur Redborne School Ampthill Thur7.30pm 7.30pm Redborne SchoolSouth, South, Ampthill Wed 7.30pm Flitwick Lower School and Wed 7.30pm Flitwick Lower School and am Thursday & Saturday at 9.30 Ampthill Robert eld School, Ampthill RobertBloomfi Bloomfi eld School, Shefford Sat Greenfi Village Hall Sat9.30am 9.30am Greenfield eld Village HallShefford Robert Bloomfi eld Robert Bloomfi eldSchool, School,Shef She Eaton Bray Village Hall Saturday 9.30am Greenfi eld Village Hall Saturday 9.30am Greenfi eld Village Hall Thursday 7.30pm Redborne School South Thursday 7.30pm Redborne School South Thur 7.30pm Redborne School South, Thur 7.30pm Redborne School South,Ampth Ampt

Ampthill Ampthill Sat Sat9.30am 9.30am Greenfi Greenfield eldVillage VillageHall Hall 27 Hall Greenfi Greenfield eldVillage Village Hall

Saturday Saturday9.30am 9.30am www.thevinemagazine.com

A Good Read For You Dunstable Through Time

By John Buckledee

Magic Tree House: Valley of the Dinosaur

By Mary Pope Osborne

This fascinating selection of photographs traces some of the many ways in which Dunstable has changed and developed over the last century.

Dunstable, once a stagecoach centre, then a hat making town, and lately a major base for printing and vehicle manufacture, is once again reinventing itself to adapt to a changing world. Dunstable Through Time, based on the popular ‘Yesteryear’ series published each week in the Dunstable Gazette, contains a wide selection of historic photographs alongside pictures of the corresponding scenes today. The continuing transformation is astonishing.

Chickens once roamed where a roundabout stands today. The Gary Cooper pub is on a park where the film star played ‘cowboys and indians’. A school’s nature pond marks the spot where parents dug an open-air swimming pool. Vast factories and three civic halls have vanished and houses now cover the site of the California ballroom.

This book enables newer Dunstablians to explore the town’s history through a fascinating selection of photographs.

28

For The Kids

THE AUTHOR John Buckledee is a former editor of the Dunstable Gazette and Luton News and worked for local newspapers for nearly 50 years. He is chairman of the Dunstable and District Local History Society and composes the weekly Yesteryear feature in the Dunstable Gazette. He has edited reprints of three rare books about Dunstable and has published numerous historical articles about the town.

Time travel. A quest to solve.

Exciting adventures. This book for young readers who are growing in confidence has all of these and much more. The first of a series of books, it follows the adventures of Jack and Annie as they discover a magic treehouse in their neighbourhood.

As the story begins Jack and Annie are chasing an imaginary monster into a nearby wood when they stumble across a solitary treehouse.

Curiosity getting the better of them, they decide to explore and inside they find wonderful collection of books. Jack is drawn to a dinosaur book and before they know it the two children are transported back to the time of the dinosaurs.

Full of fascinating facts this book will appeal to any budding palaeontologist. At ten chapters this is a nice introduction to reading without seeming too daunting. The sentence structure can be repetitive and simplistic, but I am assured by young readers that this is not a problem!

There are currently sixteen books available in the series covering different time periods and geographic locations. These along, with an interactive website, promise to engage and educate young readers for many a long school holiday.

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29

&

At Home In The Garden Cool

& Eclectic

Nowadays it’s rare to find someone who sticks to one style within their home. Modern homes are full of mix and match pieces, from antiques to vintage and retro alongside contemporary counterparts, and guess what?

It somehow works. But rest assured, this hasn’t just happened on its own. An eclectic look takes a little effort to make sure that your space doesn’t end up looking like a car boot sale!

Here are three tips that I’ve picked up along the way to best style your home using vintage and modern pieces to create a cool contemporary look.

1Go All Out

When I’ve seen eclectic done badly it’s because someone feels unsure of what they are creating. Eclecticism says confident! In order for it to work you need to go all out. You know that saying about how supermodels could wear a black bin liner and still have everyone demanding where they got it?

Well, styling your home in an eclectic way is the same – it needs confidence and attitude to carry it off. Instead of being shy with one or two pieces, get a few. Go for items that make you feel something. One wacky item on it’s own can look odd, but a few strange items grouped together alongside new products looks casually cool!

2Mix Art Styles

The easiest way to create an eclectic look using pieces from different ages is with art. A classic Black & White film photograph can look great against an abstract piece or POP art print.

You can tie the look together by using the same colour or finish frames throughout and creating a gallery wall space. Choose a colour scheme to work with, and try not to stray too far outside of it. This will give your collection a theme and help older pieces sit alongside modern with no problem!

3Group In Odd Numbers Decorative pieces work well when grouped in odd numbers.

This way, one or two pieces can take center space and be flanked either side. Choose the most special or statement piece to sit in the middle and dress either side with something either of a complementary texture (think wood and leather for instance), or colours that work with the main piece and palette of the room.

by Sarah Akwisombe. www.sarahakwisombe.com 30

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31

In The Garden

Laying The Foundations To A Successful Garden

D

oes the thought of your garden fill you with guilt as the weeds grow bigger and bigger? Chances are your garden is not based on the 3 Essential Foundations or one or more are out of balance.

Or do you want to change something in the garden but don’t know where to start? Then the 3 Essential Foundations will be vital in helping you create the most relevant and best possible starting point for your new garden.

Having designed and planted small to medium sized gardens for the past 17 years, I have found that the ones that are the most beautiful and pleasurable to be in are those that are based on an equal combination of what I call the 3 Essential Foundations and it’s never too late to look at them again.

The first one is to ‘Know what you want’. Work out exactly what you’d like to do in the garden and what you must have to make it work on a practical front. The way to do this is to sit down and take a few minutes to really think about what you like doing outside. For example, many people like to eat outside, to entertain or just to relax at the end of the day with a glass of wine – and I expect that you will too. Make a list and consult the others who use the garden too.

The second is to ‘Know your garden’. Work out what the physical 32

growing conditions in your garden and work with nature rather than against it. Essential characteristics to look for are the soil type, the soil pH (acidic, neutral or alkaline), where the sunny and shady spots are, is it sheltered or exposed and how much annual rain fall your garden gets. All these things will dictate the types of plants you can grow successfully and which part of the garden they will do best in. It is much easier to look after the right plant in the right place.

The third is to ‘Know how much time you’re REALISTICALLY prepared to give to looking after the garden’. Once you know this, design the garden to fit in with your lifestyle. Err on the side of caution rather than enthusiasm because it is much better for the soul to look at one or two areas that look beautiful and feel right rather than the whole garden being a burden.

The answers to these 3 questions will guide and direct the design that emerges and will dictate how much maintenance you will have to do in the future. When you feel on top of the maintenance, then you will be able to relax and enjoy the garden.

There is no right or wrong time to assess the 3 Essential Foundations and there is a lot to be said for doing so at the beginning of the growing season and again at the end of it. You might be surprised at what you ‘unearth’.

A beginners guide to...

A Greener Garden

Install Big Water Butts Save as much rainwater as possible and deploy it with care. Water generously only where it’s needed, in the cool of the evening, to encourage deeper rooting. Mulch well.

Right Plant, Right Place For free-draining soil don’t plant thirsty plants which require a lot of water. If it’s clay, choose deep-rooted, strong plants, like roses and hardy fuchsias, which will withstand dry periods where the ground bakes.If an established plant can’t survive on its own, it’s probably not the right plant for your plot.

Ban Peat Peat bogs are an essential part of our eco system. Once they’re gone they’re gone forever. There is no excuse for buying peat-based products…ever. Use only peat-free composts, soil-improvers and mulches.

Recycle. Recycle. Recycle Make a compost heap or buy a compost bin. Re-use plastic and crock pots. String old cds and bottle tops over newly planted seedlings as bird scarers.

Restrict Chemical Usage Try nematodes for pest control. Encourage ladybirds for greenfly control by planting fennel, dill, white cosmos and scented geraniums.

Leave A Wild Patch Build your own army of slug and bug killers. A pile of logs and fallen leaves and a patch of nettles will provide shelter for all manner of garden wildlife, including hedgehogs, ladybirds and beetles.

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33

ortance Of Tailoring p m I e h T There is a saying is that a ‘well tailored suit is to women what lingerie is to men.’ If that is to be believed why do so many gentlemen just ‘make do’?

There is no denying the impression a tailored suit makes and one that is made to measure speak volumes about the person wearing it – there are, however, some very simple rules and guidelines that every gentleman should follow whether it’s off the peg or bespoke.

5 top tips 1 A suit must fit well or it is not worth wearing.

2 Dress for your shape and personality.

3 Choose a fabric that will work for your lifestyle and requirements to ensure optimum performance.

4 Limit trips to the dry cleaners your suit doesn’t always need it.

5 Dress with the season – cotton suits in summer - tweeds, flannels, and corduroys in winter.

It’s all about the fit SHOULDERS • The jacket should hug your shoulders, not slouch off them.

• Be warned—most gentlemen think they are a size larger than they are, for example a 42 regular instead of a 40.

• When you pull on the jacket there should be a firmness to it—you should snap to attention.

• If a jacket doesn’t fit right on the shoulders it will never look right.

SLEEVES • Think about the width of the sleeves.

Always a slim fit for sartorial elegance.

CUFF • Your suit sleeves should end just above the hinges of your wrists. Show a quarter / half inch of cuff.

BODY • Your jacket should contour your body and accetuate your shoulders. This will always make your shoulders look stronger.

34

• You should be able to easily cup your hands beneath the hem of the jacket; if you can't, it's too long.

TROUSERS • Trousers should just clip the tops of your shoes, not bunch over them.

• Slim fitting trousers with very little break at the ankle never goes out of fashion.

LAPELS • Thin or wide - nothing dictates a suit’s character more.

BUTTONS • Two or three? The choice is yours.

TICKET POCKET • The sign of an English gent.

POCKETS • Traditional flap or slit. Many options.

VENTS • As important as the lapel. The unobtrusive centre vent or the statement side vent, personal preference.

One in 3 suits in the UK is purchased from a well-known retailer at prices that on first look are competitive. Take into account, the fabric and styling restrictions, the price of alterations and the lack of personal service and you are often parting with a substantial amount of money for something that lacks personality and fits poorly. By choosing made to measure you remove doubt, you create individuality and a suit that fits perfectly. Consultations are personal ensuring posture, size and quirks are all catered for. Fabrics, linings, lapels, pockets, vents, buttons etc. are your choice and tailored to meet your needs.

With autumn just round the corner it’s time to start thinking about your wardrobe, the casual sports jacket, the business suit or the dinner jacket – it’s time to get something that creates confidence every time you wear it!

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auto Biographies Audi Q5

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sly. The chassis of the latest Audi Q5 also adds a I had over £35,000 I wouldthankssotoyou don’t need a degree in llop ofIfrefinement and comfort, Rocket the absorber 2.0 TFSI quattro to thehappily spring,buy shock and anti-roll barScience to work out how to use it. Other touches such S line version of the Audi Q5 .

The new power steering system gives as you a heated seats, air conditionYou see, the styling of the Q5, el for with the road too. its coupe-like roof line and ing and a multifunction steering wrap-around tailgate, has been

wheel make the Q5 a dream to

drive. refreshed.

The design of drivingsubtly experience is further enhanced when the The car is as solidly made as an the headlights has been changed, Audi Audi drive select system is specified. drive sparkling xenon units are oakoftable ts youand varythe the operating characteristics the and yet seems as light as a feather. There’s a reason for now framed by new-look LED pedal,daytime the shiftrunning pointslights of thethat automatic form this: the bonnet and tailgate are sion, the degree ofband power steering assistance crafted from aluminium, while a continuous surrounding operation air conditioning the car’s structural elements moreof ofthe the automatic lens. the including Audi Q5 isanpure ia fourInside, modes, efficiency integrate mode. Inultra-high-strength steels; they reduce weight and understated refinement.

The conthree optional components can also be improve trols are trimmed in chrome, and ed by the Audi drive select system if they are crash safety. The result is that the Q5 handles like an the narrow panels of the centre hese include cruise control, damper executive saloon and takes off consoleadaptive are finished in high-gloss nd dynamic steering. like a bat out of hell when you black. The hi-techDuring centralhigher media speed g, it compensates for understeer dab the accelerator. Indeed, the component, MMI navigation and oversteer performance totally matches the verysteering few buttons, eningplus, withhas slight pulses.

looks of this Germanic road warFAST FACTS aying you’ll ever get sick of driving therior: Q5, top butspeed is 138mph and the 0-62mph sprint is done in a speed: 138commuting mph u’ve hadMax enough of all that to work7.1 seconds. satisfying 0-62tomph: 7.1 secsthe Audi will ng the kids school malarkey, Another explanation for this Combined mpg: off road. It may look a bit35.8 bling but it awesome actually performance is the Engine: 1984cc 4 cylinder s well on rugged terrain. Its maximum updated climbingQ5’s TFSI petrol engine, 16 valve diesel which combines direct fuel 31 degrees and its approach Max. power (bhp): and departure injection, while the eight-speed re each 25 degrees. you won’t rip anything 222 atAnd 4500 rpm tiptronic automatic powers the 5’s underbelly because the vehicle’s ground Max. torque (lb/ft): 2.0 TFSI Quattro up the cogs 258 This at 1500 rpm a motoreffortlessly. e measures 20 cm. is truly for The chassis of the 184to g/km latest Audi Q5 also adds a e – butCO2: you’ll have have a decent bank Price: on theto road great or a boss who’s£35,350 nice enough put this on dollop the of refinement and comfort, thanks to changes to the y car listPROS to drive one. & CONS spring, shock absorber and antiLooks √ roll bar settings. The new power Performance √ steering system gives you a better for the road too.

FACTSBuild √ PROS ‘N’feel CONS Expensive X The Q5 driving experience is furpeed: 138mph Looks√ ther enhanced when the optional Performance√ mph: 7.1 secs Build√ 38 ined mpg: 35.8 ExpensiveX

Audi drive select system is specified. Audi drive select lets you vary the operating characteristics of the throttle pedal, the shift points of the automatic transmission, the degree of power steering assistance and the operation of the automatic air conditioning system via four modes, including an efficiency mode. In addition, three optional components can also be controlled by the Audi drive select system if they are fitted. These include adaptive cruise control, damper control and dynamic steering. During higher speed cornering, it compensates for understeer and oversteer by intervening with slight steering pulses.

I’m not saying you’ll ever get sick of driving the Q5, but when you’ve had enough of all that commuting to work and driving the kids to school malarkey, the Audi will thrill you off road. It may look a bit bling but it actually performs well on rugged terrain. Its maximum climbing angle is 31 degrees and its approach and departure angles are each 25 degrees. And you won’t rip anything off the Q5’s underbelly because the vehicle’s ground clearance measures 20 cm. This is truly a motor for everyone – but you’ll have to have a decent bank balance, or a boss who’s nice enough to put this on the company car list to drive one.

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39

How to Reduce the Stress of Parenting...

Use

Mindfulness

By Patricia Downing Mindfulness Practitioner and Counsellor

www.space4you.org.uk for more information and courses locally, including Stewkley Mindfulness Centre, Tel: 07707 418 851

Do you find yourself shouting at your children and afterwards regretting it?

Try these tips to bring mindfulness in to your role as a parent or grandparent:

Is family life more often stressful than not?

• Start the day with a mindful ritual: spend a few

Would you like to have a stronger relationship with your son or daughter?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may want to explore mindfulness, the currently ‘hot’ topic in self-help. It has many applications: in sport for performance and focus; in the NHS for depression and chronic pain; and in the corporate world to help reduce work stress and improve creativity. Initial research also shows that mindfulness may reduce parenting stress.

So what is mindfulness? A search on-line will reveal information, books, CDs, and courses.

Essentially it is about becoming more aware and present in the moment, which is achieved through mindfulness practices. These are simple in terms of what you do, but difficult in the sense that our minds are usually all over the place, with all sorts of thoughts jumping in, generating feelings and probably affecting our mood. Regular practice is necessary to get the benefits, just as with any new skill, such as learning to swim. However, even 10 minutes a day has been shown to achieve results.

40

seconds following your breath in and out before you get out of bed; really feel your feet in contact with the floor as you get out of bed; be mindful when you brush your teeth (not thinking about anything else and really feeling what it is like to brush your teeth)

• Be mindful with your child/grandchild:

focusing intently on what they are saying or showing you without letting your thoughts wander to anything else. Do this at least a couple of times a day, even if it is not always possible.

• Take mindful pauses in difficult moments –

toddler tantrums or teenage moodiness – follow a couple of breaths in and out. That pause might stop you throwing a tantrum too!

A key aspect of mindfulness is self-compassion, so don’t be too hard on yourself – you really care about your family and are doubtlessly working hard to be a good parent. Give yourself a pat on the back, you deserve it!

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41

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

    

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

Sudoku 数独 1 6

7

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

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

5 6 7

Each row, column and 3x3 box must contain the numbers 1 to 9 just once. This can be done by applying logic -you don’t have to guess!

Crossword

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Out&About

DUNSTABLE & DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB Dunstable Flower Club meets on the 3rd Monday of the month, except January & August at the Salvation Army Hall, Bullpond Lane, Dunstable at 7.45pm. We have Flower Arranging Demonstrations each month by NAFAS Area Demonstrators. We welcome new members, so if you enjoy flower arranging come and join us.

Tel: Joan Fossey 01582 665392 HOMESTART Have you got just 2 to 3 hours to spare each week to support a local young family who are struggling to cope? The charity Home-Start is looking for caring parents and grandparents. All training and support is given and expenses paid. It’s a great way to gain new skills, make friends and really make a difference to your community.

Tel: 01582 660061 office@home-startcentralbeds.org.uk www.home-startcentralbeds.org.uk BREAKOUT SOCIAL CLUB We are a club for the over forty fives, not a singles club but a social club for people who enjoy going out but are on their own, where they can meet like-minded people, with a varied monthly programme covering Disco’s, Pub lunch’s, walks, parties and much, much more, we meet once a week in the front bar at the Conservative Club, High street North Dunstable For more information please contact Sandy on 07813 262556 DUNSTABLE SENIOR CITIZENS What age would you like to live to?

Would you like to live it with Dignity, Financial peace of mind, With a voice We are a local group fighting the fight for the over 50’s Interested in finding out more?

Come to a meeting We meet the last Thursday of each month at 2pm In the Social club of The Catholic Church in West Street Dunstable Or call for more information on 01582 534357 44

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

WATLING STREET CLUB We are an independent social club for ex-Rotarians and similarly minded people and have been in existence for nearly 3 years. We are named ‘The Watling Street Club’ as our members form a link along the Watling Street. We meet every Thursday evening at the ‘Old Hunter’s Lodge’ Whipsnade for a meal and speaker.

New members are welcome. For more information contact John Stevens 01582 668033 DUNSTABLE BRIDGE CLUB We meet every Monday (except bank holidays) in Chews House in High Street South, Dunstable, from 1pm to 5pm. We would welcome new members of all standards and you do not need a partner. If anyone is interested please call: 01582 664485 THE BOGTROTTERS The Bogtrotters (Dunstable and District Walking and Hostelling Group) are a group of about 90 walkers, hikers and hostellers. We run a surprisingly diverse range of activities, including half and full day walks, hostelling trips, meals and evening activities.

New members are always welcome.

Prospective members are invited to get in touch via the website, give us a ring or just turn up to an event or walk.

Enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk 01582 865966 Sue or Julian DUNSTABLE & DISTRICT ORBIT CLUB Since its inception over 25 years ago, Orbit has raised nearly £60,000 for local charities. We also give our time to help organisations and people in the community.

Orbit offers an active social calendar, with wide-ranging events to suit all budgets and tastes. Annual membership is just £15.

We meet on the first and third Tuesday of the month at Dunstablians Rugby Club, Bidwell Park, Bedford Road, Houghton Regis, LU5 6JW from 8 pm. You’ll be guaranteed a warm welcome.

For more information please visit www.orbitclub.org.uk/dunstable or contact Mark on 01582 539379 or Julie on 01582 535761.

CHILTERN GATEWAY CENTRE Chilterns Gateway Centre Shop, 01582 500925 50 things Activities 3rd August & 7th Sept 2pm 3pm Free

Bring the kids and join us on the first Sunday of the month get involve with National Trusts 50 thing to do before your 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.

Eid Festival 10th August 12 - 6pm Free

Join us for the Eid festival at Dunstable Downs; everyone is welcome.

Enjoy the Bedfordshire countryside with nature trails, face painting, bouncy castle, children’s entertainers, henna artists, craft and music activities and lots more.

First World War commemorative walk with poetry readings 23rd August 11am - 1.30pm Free

A silent walk of remembrance to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War. Led by poet Ken Cockburn and the property team exploring Whipsnade Tree Cathedral’s links to conflict. Led by poet Ken Cockburn, the walk will start at Whipsnade Tree Cathedral and end at Ashridge Estate lasting approximately 2.5hours. A pair of poems will be read and, where possible, some poppy seeds scattered and a book installation left as a memory of the event. The walk was conceived

by Alec Finlay, with Ken Cockburn, Heather H. Yeung, and Luke Allan.

Commissioned by National Trust, supported by Arts Council England.

Great British Walk 8th Sept - 24th Oct

Discover autumn colours and hidden beauty spots in the Bedfordshire countryside.

TEA TIME TALES Talks of local and national interest with tea or coffee and a pastry.

Alternate Thursday afternoons 2.30 - 4.00pm £4.75 per person September 4th The English Civil War - Paul Heley, Dunstable Town Guide September 18th Thugs, Assassins, Angels and Cream Cheese; strange religious beliefs -Kay Kempster, Dunstable Town Guide THE HEALING TRUST Ardley Hill School, Lowther Rd, Each Thursday evening 7.30 - 9pm.

No charge, donations accepted.

NFSH T: Pam Hill on 01582 606182 Come for interest or healing.

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 KINGSBURY BOWLS CLUB is a small friendly club situated in east Dunstable under the shadow of Blows Downs.

The Green is open to the public from Wednesday to Friday until September, 2-00pm to 4-00pm and 6-00pm to Dusk – at a reasonable fee. Come and try a new sport – the only dress requirement is flat-soled footwear. Bowls and all other equipment is available at the Green. www.kingsburybowls.weebly.com DUNSTABLE LADIES CHOIR Ladies - new members are welcome to join our choir. If you enjoy singing why not come to a Tuesday evening rehearsal from 7.30-9.30pm at Houghton Regis Baptist Church, Hammersmith Gardens LU5 5RG and give us a try. No audition necessary. We also have a lively social life

including meals out, get-togethers and trips to concerts and shows.

Dunstable Ladies Choir Spring Further details from Pat Jackson 01582 520302.

HOUGHTON REGIS BOWLS CLUB Open day on the 4th may from 11am to around 4pm The only thing needed is flat soled shoes.

All ages and abilities are welcome.

Children over 12 years must be accompanied by a parent please.

Light refreshments will be available.

Please come and have a go, look forward seeing you all, any enquiries please ring me on 01582518645 SUNDAY BAND CONCERTS Once again, Grove House Gardens and Dunstable Town Council presents to you the Sunday Band Concerts for 2014!

3 - 4.45pm. Free Refreshments Available.

3rd Aug Hitchin Band Songs from the West End 10th Aug St. Albans City Band Songs from TV & Movies 17th Aug Chiltern Hill Brass Band Big Band 24th Aug Watford Band Last Night of The Proms 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 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

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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 Malcolm Partridge 01525 222711 SCHOOLS OUT FOR SUMMER Dunstable Town Council’s Summer Activities for 5 to 18 year olds As children and young people cheer the end of the academic year, thoughts could turn to what is on offer to fill up the long and carefree days. Well Dunstable Town Council might just have what you are looking for with a fun filled programme of activities for all ages. For the culture Guru’s there are free family arts and crafts sessions, photography workshops, African drumming and WW1 activities in the Town cemetery and much more.

For the sports enthusiasts there is tennis, football and rugby coaching, fencing and taekwondo workshops.

If you have any energy left there is the ever popular inflatable day in Grove House Gardens on Friday 15 August.

Chairman of Community Services Committee Councillor Pat Staples said “Dunstable Town Council is committed to delivering services to meet the needs of our whole community. This year’s children and young people’s summer programme is packed with fun and exciting activities. They take place in a number of Town Council venues and the variety is greater than ever.”

Full programme available visit www.dunstable.gov.uk 45

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Pop in and meet the team, phone us for a quote on 01582 662 555 or visit www.aplan.co.uk/dunstable A-Plan Insurance, 10 High Street North, Dunstable, LU6 1LA *Most new client savings ranged from £20 - £300. Figure based on average saving made by new clients between February 2013 and July 2013.Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.