The Vine Dunstable - February / March 2018 - Issue 81

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I Dunstable I Studham I Kensworth I Whipsnade

Local News

What’s On

Puzzles

Credit Cards

Taking Control!

By Martin Lewis

This Issue

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Local News CUSTOMER CARE EXCELLENCE AWARD TheVineDirectory.co.uk Local Offers 6 Revitalising Dunstable • Local Business Directory 8

Editor: Scott Nightingale Editor: Scott Advertising & Nightingale Editorial:

Revitalising Dunstable

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Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the content of advertising articles in Whilst every care hasand been taken published to ensure the this magazine are accurate, publisher content of advertising andneither articlesthe published in orthis its magazine editorial contributors accept and are accurate, can neither the publisher hereby disclaim contributors any liability to any party and to loss or its editorial can accept orhereby damage causedany by liability errors. Neither do they disclaim to any party to loss reflect the opinion ofby this publication. or damage caused errors.

NeitherThe do Vine they does notthe officially endorse any advertising reflect opinion of this publication.

The Vine material thisany publication. does notincluded officiallywithin endorse advertising No part of this publication reproduced material included withinmay thisbe publication. without permission.

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12 Local News Local News 20 12 TeamSport - Competition Mothers Day 22 26Martin Lewis: Money Matters Caring For Houseplants 26 30 At Home: Martin Lewis: Money Matters

28 34 In The Garden In The Garden: Clematis Care 32 40 Body Change 4U: Calories Puzzles 34 Autos: Mercedes C220 AMG 42 Snippets: Chatham Dockyard 36 Puzzles 46 Looking Up 38 Snippets: The Gunpowder Plot 48 Out & About 46 A Pensioners View Copy deadline 48 Out & About

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Issue 81 • February / March 2018

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Issue 81 • February / March 2018

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New Look Dunstable High Street Revitalising Dunstable

This year is shaping up to be a good one for Dunstable town centre, one where you’ll begin to see the evidence of more Central Bedfordshire Council regeneration work – particularly on the High Street.

wonderful turn in this sector and especially in the areas of food, drink and entertainment. Our scheme is aimed at helping participating businesses stand out more and to entice more people into the town.

In the next few months you’ll see a number of premises, that successfully bid for a portion of our Market Town Regeneration Fund, begin transformations to enhance their offer and help boost the vibrancy of the town.

So, over the next 12 months, Caffe Latte and Lombardo’s – an established Italian food and drink presence in Dunstable for 40 years – are just two of the businesses that will benefit from this rejuvenation.

So too will the vacant unit at 43 High Street North.

Previously an old and unattractive prospect for potential tenants, a new lease of life will provide a home for another new business in the town.

Some of this work has already brought benefits, of course. Part of the £1.25million worth of co-funding given by us and Dunstable Town Council has resulted in the Town Ranger programme and the Splash Park and Splashside Café on Bennett’s Recreation Ground, to name just two examples that are already helping to shape and support economic growth.

But we also allocated £1million for a Central Bedfordshire-wide High Street Improvement Scheme, offering grants to landlords and businesses for up to 60 per cent of total costs of renovating shop fronts, forecourts and making improvements to vacant units. The take-up in town has again been very pleasing.

I’ve written on these pages before about Dunstable’s retail offer and how I see it developing in the future, as a thriving centre for independent retailers and businesses.

The good news is that Dunstable already does a

8

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This will all complement our other plans to give you back your High Street. Having already begun re-routing heavy goods traffic away from the High Street, the next step will first be the removal of railings and unnecessary street clutter to make it more pedestrian friendly.

All of which will provide even more reason to visit Dunstable town centre.

Images above: An artists impression of the renovated shop fronts of Lombardo’s and Caffe Latte, complete with awnings.

By Cllr Nigel Young, Central Bedfordshire Council Executive Member for Regeneration

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Lottery Win For

Incredible Edible

Keep Dunstable Tidy was active last year in various parts of the town. We held several litter picks in Green Lanes as well as Downside, Beecroft and Dog Kennel Lane. These were well supported and the amount of litter which was bagged up at the end of each event was quite amazing. Keep Dunstable Tidy is at its most active in Spring and Autumn. Our next events will be during the week end of March 3rd and 4th and there will be a litter pick on Downside on March 7th, starting from the Community Centre at 3.30pm. For further details, contact me on h.garrod@ntlworld.com The Dunstable In Bloom theme for this year, to commemorate the centenary of the ending of WWI, is Peace and Remembrance.

Dunstable In Bloom has entered the Anglia In Bloom competition for the last eight years and has won a gold award in six of them. In past years we have been well supported by local groups and our schools.

We hope that this year will be similar. Besides winning awards, which is good, Dunstable In Bloom aims to make our town a better place to visit and in which to live and work.

Big Lottery Fund has awarded the Incredible Edible Network £400,000.

Incredible Edible began 9 years ago through the imagination and passion of a small group of friends in Todmorden. The early days of these story tellers and activists were peppered with phrased like ‘if you eat your in’ and ‘redefining prosperity’. People took notice of the simple model, the message of the Three Plates and the enthusiastic do-ability of the model. Today over 100 groups in the UK and many more around the world call themselves Incredible Edible and organically we have grown to become a network.

Proud of our volunteer led, grass root federation a network was established to inspire, enable, build up, connect and amplify the work of these groups throughout the UK. In the next two years we wanted to invest in this network to learn lessons and to share that learning with existing groups and new groups who want to join the journey. We have called this project Roots and Branches. In Wakefield, Salford, Bristol, Conwy and Dunstable and Middleborough groups have committed to becoming Beacons to learn and share with us. In each place there will be a person whose role it is to gather our learning and support

10 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

new groups. We will also build a new central hub on our network website for people to share the joy and the tools of their journey.

Pam Warhurst, co-founder said “I am thrilled at this development. We learn as we do – that has always been our philosophy. Never before has the need to understand local food and build confident communities been so pressing. I am delighted that the Big Lottery Fund have seen our model and chosen to support us in this work of sharing and growing’.

Sahira Ward from the Dunstable Incredible Edible Beacon added, “from the very first moment I heard the incredible story I was hooked. We have built a great group of friends in Dunstable committed to the same vision. To be rooted locally and connected nationally with the other Beacons, gives us a great chance to support many others to grow as we have. To grow people as well as plants’ Incredible Edible Dunstable have a monthly work session called Come n Grow on the third Saturday of every month from 1pm to 3pm Katherine Drive Dunstable LU5 4NP. If you are interested in getting involved email: incredibleedible395@gmail.com or call 07905 116623

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Issue 81 • February / March 2018

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Central Bedfordshire's Cheering Volunteering Awards are returning, with the fourth annual awards and celebration evening taking place on Tuesday 5th June.

It will again be held at the Grove Theatre, in Dunstable, and is a terrific opportunity to celebrate the work of volunteers across Central Bedfordshire.

You will be able to nominate people or groups for six different awards, including a new category for 2018: Sports Volunteer.

Nominations opened on Monday 8th January and will remain open for almost three months in which time you can nominate in as many categories as you like.

Applications for Inspiring Volunteering grants are also now open.

There’s a total funding pot of £5,000 available for projects which encourage volunteering or kick-start new activities involving volunteers.

Grant awards will be made from a minimum of £100 to a maximum of £1,000.

Councillor Carole Hegley, Executive Member for Social Care and Housing, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Community and Voluntary services, Community Action and our sponsors Biffa, Prologis, Aragon, Jeakins Weir and Beds Fire and Rescue to again celebrate the contribution of volunteers across Central Bedfordshire.

“We’ve introduced a new Sports Volunteer award for 2018, so when entries open next month then have a think about nominating, for example, those people who brave cold winter mornings to encourage youngsters in a variety of sports.

“We were delighted to help 14 different groups and organisations with our grants scheme last year, so I would encourage people to apply for those too.”

Nominations and grant application forms are available at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk Paper copies of both are also available.

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Issue 81 • February / March 2018

13

local Community

Dunstable Businesses Flip Out For Local Charities Flip Flip Hooray! Dunstable Pancake Race returns for a third year on Tuesday 13th February 2018 at 12 Noon.

Organised again by Ed Harrison, Managing Director of Deakin-White - Dunstable’s Award-Winning Estate Agent & President of Pride of Dunstable Business Supper Club, along with Steve Spicer of Spicer & Co. Accountants & Vice President of Pride of Dunstable, they hope this years race will be bigger and batter than ever and are encouraging all local businesses and community groups to sign up to help raise money for local charities.

Last year 18 teams battled it out to be the best flipping team: four relay races; a semi-final and a final resulted in HQ Sports Bar being crowned champion flippers! But Ed and Steve are aiming to beat that this year and believe the more teams the batter!! So, are you ready for this year's challenge? Have you got your team of four organised yet? If not you had better get cracking!

As well as raising money for local charities, Ed and Steve hope that the Pancake Race can become an annual tradition for the town and an event that will bring the community together, much like the old custom of Orange Rolling which took place each year up until 1968. Many readers will remember taking part in the annual Orange Roll which was a custom unique to Dunstable and took place at Pascombe Pit on Dunstable Downs every Good Friday. The tradition came to an eventual end in 1968 due to Health and Safety regulations and lack of support from local traders but many townsfolk still remember this event with fondness!

So, for some pantastic fun and to support a worthwhile cause come on down to Grove Park to cheer on your team.

Open to local businesses or community groups.

Entry costs just £20 per team, email Reception@ Deakin-White.co.uk for your entry form.

The race takes place, as it has for the last few years, outside the Grove Theatre and HQ Sports Bar at Grove Park in Dunstable. It will be half term so if you don't want to take part you can still come along and watch the fun from 12 noon.

Proceeds go to The Mayor of Dunstable's Charities which this year are the Dunstable & District Scout Council, Hospice at Home Volunteers & South Bedfordshire Dial a Ride.

The 2018 Dunstable Pancake Race is sponsored by DeakinWhite and Spicer & Co, in association with HQ Bar; Grove Theatre; Dunstable Town Council & Gents Barbering.

14 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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local local Community Notices

Organisers of this year’s Luton and Bedfordshire Community Awards are inviting locally focused charities to apply for what could be a massive cash boost later this year.

make up the vibrant, multicultural community across Luton and Bedfordshire.

In that time, a host of charities have benefited from a combined total of £125,000, including the Luton Food Bank, Luton & Dunstable Hospital, and Level Trust to name just three.

The money comes from donations from fundraising throughout the year and is presented on the awards evening.

A new form, available from the awards website, asks for information on the aims and objectives of the charities, their approximate fundraising income and details how the charity applicant helps to benefit the local community in and around Luton and Bedfordshire.

to put forward a compelling case for this funding pot. The committee of judges, sponsors, and members of the local community will choose their winner later this year.

“The most important thing that the committee will be looking for is that there is something tangible to come Last year’s Community Awards raised £25,000 for the Luton Food from the money. The community Bank to buy a new van and pay the must be able to see what difference The deadline for entering and other insurance, tax and fuel for the next the cash makes.” details are available on the Comfour years.

Over the last eight years the awards munity Awards website.

Mostaque Koyes, the awards organ- have recognised and rewarded the www.ciluton.co.uk/communityiser, said: “We are inviting charities magnificent teams and people who awards

Encouraging Youngsters To

Ready… Vet… Go!

Young animal enthusiasts can try their hand at being Vets in Action this half term at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo Aspiring young vets can put their animal care skills to the test at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo this February half-term with Vets in Action, a fascinating roleplaying experience for children.

During a fun-filled week of immersive activities from Saturday 10th to Sunday 18th February, kids can experience first-hand what it takes to be a vet at the UK’s largest zoo. Upon arrival at the specially created ‘Animal Hospital’, budding vets will be

16 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

placed at the heart of the action, learning how to examine, x-ray and perform treatments on different animals.

Children will be able to watch the Zoo’s team of expert vets conduct a health-check on a replica lion and operate on a chimpanzee soft toy, to update its heart monitor. To fully experience the varied life of a Zoo vet, youngsters can practise their newly-learned skills by carrying out their own health checks on soft toy rabbits, guinea pigs and rats.

Alongside the exciting role-play activities, there will be lots of interesting talks covering the captivating world of animal medicine, and demonstrating how ZSL Whipsnade Zoo’s team of vets ensure the Zoo’s 3,000 animals stay fit and healthy.

Promising to be a fun day out for the whole family, Vets in Action at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo will run from Saturday 10th to Sunday 18th February. Book online now at www.zsl.org and take advantage of the Weather Buster Flexi Ticket, which gives you a 10% discount and allows you to use your purchased tickets to visit on any date before 29th March.

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Issue 81 • February / March 2018

17

local News

Council Urges Residents To Register Household Appliances

Central Bedfordshire Council’s Public Protection Team is urging the public to take a few minutes to record the millions of white goods that they rely on every day but have never registered.

Supporting this safety initiative, the council is encouraging more people to remember to take this important precaution to ensure they can be contacted swiftly if a safety recall or repair is ever needed.

According to the most recent research, thousands of consumers are still missing out on product safety warnings because they fail to register appliances such as fridges, freezers and washing machines. Appliance recalls are rare, but millions of large appliances are unregistered. Unlike cars, this leaves the vast majority untraceable if a safety action becomes necessary.

YouGov research published today, shows that less than half of owners (46%) register the fridges that they have bought. The survey found that many appliances aren’t registered because their owners don’t think it’s necessary (39%). Very few people (15%) realise that they can register an appliance with the manufacturer, even if they acquired it second hand or inherited it.

It is recommended that people register all their household appliances for safety purposes, and includes appliances that are up to 12 years old.

Appliances can be registered online at www.registermyappliance.org.uk.

18 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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d Kyeoeuyou wire g n i p KeeKeeping Contact James Contact James direct direct on: on :on: Mobile: 07771 698 151 Contact James direct Mobile : 07771 698 151 Mobile: 07771 698 151123 01582 343 Office: Office: 015801582 2 343343 12 3 Office: 123 Email: james@andertonelectrics.co.uk Email: ja mes @andertonelectrics.c Email: james@andertonelectrics.co.uk o.uk www.andertonelectrics.co.uk www.andertonelectrics.co.uk www. andertonelectrics.co. uk

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sales@vansarblinds.co.uk Issue 81 • February / March 2018

19

local Community

The Rotary Club of Dunstable In my last report I stated that our club would be busy in the forthcoming months and we certainly were.

December was the Santa Sleigh visiting most streets in and around Dunstable and stationed at most of the supermarkets at weekends.

The bout of snow didn’t help, forcing us to abandon 2 complete streets and also one of the supermarket visits. The outside organisations stepped in and supported us on occasions when our own members were ill or unable to help.

Over the period between the 1st and the 24th December we raised a total in excess of £14,000, a brilliant result. To mention everyone

who helped would be impossible but the person(s) who should get a special mention is our second Vice President, Graham Bourne and his wife Angela, who night after night counted the money and made sure everything was ready for the next night. Thank you, Graham.

back there in 2019! The freezing cold weather did not deter nearly 500 people who came through the doors to look round the 80 or so stalls. The next fair is on 7th May at Houghton Regis. Thanks to Alan Tarsey who once again coordinated another successful event.

On Christmas Day, 24 lunches were distributed to people less fortunate than ourselves. This total was down on last year but nevertheless it is a significant part of our community work and helped annually by Dunstable Salvation Army

For more information on our Rotary Club, please contact Roger Sharp on 01582 606405.

On the 1st January, the first of three of our annual Antiques and Collectors Fairs, took place at Houghton Regis Leisure Centre.

The Dunstable Leisure Centre is being re-built and we hope to be

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20 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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Issue 81 • February / March 2018

21

Find Us n.

O Directory.co.uk

TheVine

ectory • Local Business Dir al News • Local Events • Loc • Local Offers ADD YOUR LISTING TODAY!

49 Lowther Road, Dunstable, LU6 3NL www.dreamdoors.co.uk

Award Winning Kitchen Showroom Here In Dunstable

Dream Doors South Beds, located on Lowther Road, Dunstable, is part of the UK’s largest kitchen makeover retail network and was recently awarded the ‘Exceptional New Starter’ award at the franchise’s 2017 annual conference. The showroom is owned by Mark and his wife Anne who were praised for their focus on following the Dream Doors model, the work carried out by their fantastic team and the successful showroom opening earlier this year.

When introducing Mark and Anne for the Award, Ed Brewer, Director of Operations, had this to say: “Mark and Anne well exceeded any targets they had set for themselves, quickly becoming a franchisee of note. With excellent Checkatrade feedback and regular recommendations and referrals from previous customers, Mark and Anne are truly the ideal Dream Doors franchisee.”

Most notable among all of their commendations is the fact that Dream Doors South Bedfordshire holds the record for biggest kitchen makeover in the entire history of the Dream Doors franchise.

Dream Doors is the UK’s leading replacement kitchen door franchise, offering made-to-measure replacement kitchen doors and worktops. This gives customers a kitchen makeover for the fraction of the price of a full replacement. The company has over 60,000 kitchen makeovers to their name and has won ‘Best Kitchen Supplier’ and ‘Best Money Saving Product’ in the 2017 Express Home and Living Awards.

Mark had this to say about his award win: “The Team here in Dunstable are delighted to receive this award. It’s a recognition of the trust placed in us by over 120 customers to deliver the kitchen of their dreams since we opened in this area.”

Mark welcomes anyone that’s interested in a kitchen facelift to drop in to the showroom for a friendly chat.

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22 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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Bedfordshire, he helocal local community community withall alltheir their moving movingneeds. thanand 50 years experience in houseMove removals have the Hertfordshire Buckinghamshire, proudly We e are areWith also alsomore aaproud proud franchise franchise ofofthe theBishop’s Bishop’s Move weserving knowledge and expertise make sure your move day clockwork!

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Please call John 01582 700944 or 07745 979276 Issue 81 • February / March 2018

23

E1

0

local Notices

CLERK REQUIRED FOR Association Of Dunstable Charities

The Association is the umbrella organisation for six local charities and is looking to appoint a new Clerk.

The successful candidate will: manage the day-to-day running of the charities and their properties. organise meetings, take and issue their minutes, keep accounts and liaise with Trustees of the charities and relevant outside bodies. be ‘good with people’ and also able to work independently.

The contract will be for 12 hours per week, over 3 regular mornings. Holidays by mutual arrangement Interviews will be held in May Able to start on Monday 4th June 2018 Applications, with two references, by 30th April 2018 For further details, and job description, please contact Hugh Garrod h.garrod@ntlworld.com

HIRE FROM

FOR EXPERT ADVICE CALL

01582 477200 UNIT 21, APEX BUSINESS CENTRE, BOSCOMBE RD. DUNSTABLE, BEDS, LU5 4SB

24 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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Authorised Signature: _________________________

FAILURE TO RESPOND TO THIS REQUEST WILL RESULT IN THE ADVERTISEMENT BEING PRINTED AS SHOWN, without liability to UK Town Maps

T:

Note: UK Town Maps shall not be liable for any error or omission included in any proof sent to the Advertiser unless corrected by the Advertiser and notified to the above address.

ps, Suite 10, Royce House, 630-634 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex SS0 9HW 39633 Fax: 01702 436683 ktownmaps.co.uk • Web: www.uktownmaps.co.uk

UK Town SuiteHouse, 10, Royce House, 630-634 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex SS0 9HW UK Town Maps, Suite Maps, 10, Royce 630-634 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex SS0 9HW Tel: 01702 01702 436683 Tel: 01702 339633 Fax:339633 01702 Fax: 436683 Email: info@uktownmaps.co.uk • Web: www.uktownmaps.co.uk Email: info@uktownmaps.co.uk • Web: www.uktownmaps.co.uk

e advert attached is an exact size copy of the artwork for your Agreement No:___ UK Town Maps, Suite 10, Royce House, 630-634 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex SS0 9HW DATE SENT: SENT: Tel: 01702DATE 339633 Fax: 01702 436683 Email: info@uktownmaps.co.uk • Web: www.uktownmaps.co.uk

This proof must be returned by the:______________

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This proof be returned the:______________ UKmust TOWN MAPS

BY EITHER EMAIL, OR POST UK TOWN MAPS LTD BYbyLTD EITHER EMAIL, FAX OR FAX POST

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If you need blinds to refresh your décor or provide the finishing touch to a full refurbishment in yourOur domestic successor is commercial built on yourproperty, satisfaction Our success is built on then look no further than Allegro Blinds in Dunstable.

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Mothers everywhere…

Mothers everywhere…

‘thank you’ ‘thank you’

Mother’s Day originated in America, but in England in the effort to write to their Mothers”. A whole   century later, Anna Jarvis still has a voice. and Wales it’s celebrated as one and the same as   When an American newspaper was recently quoted Mothering Sunday.     in estimating an average of $139 (roughly £90) “What’s the difference?” I hear you exclaim!      spent, it does seem as if the original idea of Well, Mothering Sunday is in fact a Christian holiday being      visiting your Mother/writing to her to tell her how celebrating not birth mothers but mother church.     much you mean to her, or completing an act of Which is why in the UK (and Ireland and Nigeria)     to make her life easier, have been someMother’s Day is on the fourth Sunday of Lent and kindness     what swamped by the idea that if you buy her £90 not on the second Sunday of May like the US and     worth of jewellery, you’re showing your apprecia80 other participating countries.     tion.

Which I’m sure a lot of Mums would be more The founder of the modern Mothers Day was      than happy with! I know my Mum would be thrilled Anna Jarvis who created the holiday in 1905 to     receive a fancy gift on Mothering Sunday; HOWhonour her Mother Ann Reeves Jarvis, the day was to      EVER, I also know my Mum is equally always really first recognised and celebrated in 1908.

She saw     pleased to spend time with my brother and myself. it as a perfect time to honour your Mother, ‘the    Admittedly, we usually go to the same place for person who has done more for you than anyone      a lunch or dinner so money IS spent but I have in this world’. In 1914, President Wilson officially     many happy memories of all taking the time to see designated the second Sunday in May as Mother’s      other and spending that time laughing and Day. By the early 1920’s, Hallmark had got it’s hands each      catching up with one another. Life gets really on the opportunity and started selling Mother’s Day really     busy and it’s sometimes difficult to find time when cards.

However, Anna had created the occasion for     we’re all busy as a family, so for us, Mother’s Day sentiment, not for profit and she tried to stop the     more to the Anna Jarvis way of thinking. campaign she’d started and fought so hard for. Sadly is slightly      No big gifts, but time spent together, and hopefully she was so bitter at the commercialism, she ended     our Mum knows that by meeting up and teasing her up a lonely person dying furious at the way the     for the afternoon (as is our way when my brother holiday had taken form and even on one occasion    I get together) we are in fact, in our own little was arrested for disturbing the peace after protest- and     way trying to show her how much she means to us ing at a confab of the American War Mothers who     and how much we value her. were selling carnations. Her initial idea however,    year is an exciting one for me, it’s my very first only picked up in popularity and is now celebrated This       as a Mother myself, as my baby is 8 months all over the world. Unfortunately, I’m not sure Miss year    old, I’m not expecting her to show much more apJarvis would be very happy at the development of    than perhaps throwing up on me slightly the day. If selling cards and a few carnations made preciation     than usual, but as Scarlett grows up, I hope that her angry enough to end up in jail, I can only imag- less    busy her life gets, she will enjoy putting ine which words she’d use to describe the commer- however    aside a bit of time to come and see her Mum, even cialism the day has taken on in modern day!     if just to share what she’s been up to. As a Mother However, her spirit has not been completely       myself I now understand just how much joy having destroyed, if you put ‘Mother’s Day’ into Google,     children can bring, and I understand how precious as well as the inevitable MOTHERS DAY SALE/      Motherhood is. No fancy gift would ever be able to HOTEL BREAKS FOR MOTHERS DAY and      take the place of seeing my little girl happy. other similarly commercial advertisements, you’ll     Mother’s Day has become very commercial but find a fair few articles and campaigns remember    that’s not how it started, but any appreciation of ing the true spirit the holiday was set up for in the      Motherhood, in my opinion, is worthwhile so alfirst place, titles such as “Let’s cut out the com   it may not all be to her tastes, we have Anna mercialism from Mother’s Day.” I even came across though  Jarvis to thank for the holiday. So to the memory of a petition to make it illegal for card companies to  sell greetings cards with the argument that “printed Anna Jarvis, her own Mother and Mothers everycards are just a way of people not bothering to put where, thank you!

26 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

I offer a completely confidential Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapeutic Counselling Service in Dunstable.

I am a member of the BACP, National Counselling Society and National Hypnotherapy Society.

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Email: therapy@lauraduffy.co.uk Please visit my website for useful information www.lauraduffy.co.uk Issue 81 • February / March 2018

27

TRAIN TO TEACH? The Shire Foundation, based in Luton, is a leading primary teacher training provider. We offer personalised learning opportunities and unique facilities.

Our tutors are leading practitioners in a variety of curriculum and professional subject areas and are themselves outstanding teachers, many teaching in our local schools. Shire is part of Luton First Teaching School Alliance and is situated on the site of HIillborough Junior School, rated as 'outstanding'

by OFSTED. This gives our trainees access to opportunities to observe high quality teaching and also work with receptive and highly motivated children as part of training sessions.

Established in 1994, we have a superb employment after training record, with many of our trainees going on to either lead subjects or higher school management. Last year, 2016-17, 100% of our trainees obtained a teaching post after training.

28 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Here is what some of our trainees say about us......'the support I have had from my mentors has been truly fantastic'........'my mentor was very attentive and gave very good feedback which helped me grow as a teacher'..........'the science sessions are brilliant, science wasn't a subject I thought I would enjoy teaching.'....

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LEWIS BUILDING Issue 81 • February / March 2018

29

Money Matters By Martin Lewis

Take Control Of Credit Card Debt @martinslewis

Letterboxes become dangerous at this time of year, and not just due to trapped fingers. Mail takes on a demonic hue for many awaiting credit card statements with Christmas’ spending on to land on the doormat.

So if your plastic has a festive hangover, don’t ignore it, it’s time to sort it.

There are three key rule to sorting your existing debts: 1. Stop borrowing more.

2. Cut the interest rate. This means your repayments clear the actual debt rather than just profit the lender.

3. If you’ve more than one debt, prioritise repaying the one with the highest interest rate first – as it’s growing fastest – and just pay the minimums on everything else.

The key weapon to cut interest is a balance transfer This is where you get a new card(s) that repays debts on existing credit or store cards for you, so you shift the debt and owe it, but at no interest cost. And there’s another ‘rule of three’ here to get the right card.

1. Don’t apply willy-nilly, first see what you’ll be accepted for. When you apply for a credit card they do a credit check. Yet banks are the type of organisation that’d lend you an umbrella when the sun shines and ask for it back when it rains. So those in most need of cutting their existing debt costs tend to be those who struggle most to be accepted.

Worse still just applying for a card marks your credit file, which has a marginally negative impact, so if you’re rejected being accepted elsewhere gets slightly tougher. To help, use an eligibility calculator, like mine at www.moneysavingexpert.com/BTeligibility.

30 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

These let you home in on the right cards, by showing which of the top deals you’re most likely to be accepted for – and they don’t impact your future creditworthiness.

2. Go for the card with the lowest fee in the time you need. Most balance transfer cards charge a one-off fee on the amount of debt transferred up to 3% (so £30 per £1,000 shifted).

In general the longer the 0% period the higher the fee, so you should aim for the card with the lowest fee but ensuring the 0% period is long enough. So calculate how long you think you’ll take to clear the debt, add a bit for safety, then pick the lowest fee within that time. If you’re not sure play long and go safe.

The longest current 0% card is www.barclaycard.co.uk at ‘up to’ 38 months 0% with a 1.4% fee (19.9% rep APR after). The longest fee-free card is www.halifax. co.uk at ‘up to’ 29 months 0% (19.9% rep APR after).

Full best buys at www.mse.me/balancetransfers.

3. Watch for ‘up to’ cards. As you’ll note those best buys are ‘up to’ cards. They tend not to say this overtly but you will spot it in the small print. This means, depending on credit score, some who are accepted will get a shorter 0%. Frustratingly there is no way to know this beforehand.

However, in general if you do an eligibility check and the only cards showing up that you have a decent chance are ‘up to’s’ then you’re likely to get a shorter 0% with all of them.

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31

The longest non-up to 0% card is www.sainsburysbank.co.uk at 36 months 0% with a 2.89% fee – so if accepted that’s what you get and it also offers a non-up to fee-free option for 28 months 0% (both are 18.9% rep APR after). If you’ve a decent chance of getting those, then they may be worth plumping for.

The Balance transfer golden rules…

My credit limit is not big enough. What should I do?

Shift as much of your most expensive debt to the card as you can. At least you’ll save on that. When done, follow the process above again to see if you can get a second card for some more. Though each subsequent application can get more difficult as each marks your credit file.

Getting the right cards only half the job, once you’ve got it you need to ensure you use it the right way. a) Always clear the debt on the card or transfer again before the 0% ends or you pay the high APR. b) Never miss the minimum monthly repayment or you can lose the 0%. c) Don’t spend or withdraw cash on the card. It usually isn’t at the cheap rate. d) You must usually do the transfer quickly, most cards limits are 60 - 90 days to get the 0%.

If my best chances of acceptance are only say 30% should I bother applying?

That means 3 in 10 of those in your position will get accepted. If cutting this debt’s cost is your priority (i.e. you’re not about to get a mortgage the next week) then you may as well try, one application won’t hurt that much, and this is what you build up your credit score for anyway.

Balance transfer common questions (and the answers too, obvs)

If you can’t even meet minimum monthly payments, you have non-mortgage debts bigger than a year’s salary or you have depression or anxiety over it, you’re in what I define as debt crisis.

Can it clear multiple cards?

Yes, if the new credit limit’s big enough.

How big will the credit limit be?

Lenders tend to look at how much you earn and how much other debt you have. It can be anything from £100 to £25,000. You can usually transfer up to around 90-95% of it.

Struggling to sleep due to your debts?

In that case forget what I’ve written above and instead get free, one-on-one debt-counselling help from www.

CitizensAdvice.org, www.capuk.org, www.StepChange. org or www.NationalDebtline.co.uk. They are there to help, not judge. The most common thing I hear after is: “I finally got a good night’s sleep”.

Although Money Matters is based on extensive research and personal knowledge, Martin Lewis is not necessarily qualified in the given field/subject. We would therefore always recommend that readers take this information as advice and do their own research before committing.

32 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

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Issue 81 • February / March 2018

33

In Theen Gard

Cut The Confusion Over Clematis I love the huge flowers of hybrid clematis as they climb up trellis and fencing, or weave their way through less interesting shrubs, wrap themselves around tree trunks and scramble over old walls to create a burst of colour, often in shadier places.

They make perfect companions entwined with deliciously scented climbing roses covering arches and pagodas in the romantic garden, or simply climbing up unsightly walls or fences to act as a colourful screen.

In fact, different types of clematis can provide you with flowers for most of the year.

Yet, clematis are the climbers which cause the most confusion when it comes to pruning because there are three groups of them, and if you prune the wrong type at the wrong time you'll ruin your chances for blooms this year.

Group 1 clematis, which flower in spring, bloom on stems which grew the previous year and are generally pruned after flowering. They are often rampant growers with large numbers of relatively small flowers - C. macropetala and C. montana are well-known examples, although C. alpina, cirrhosa and amandii also fall into this group.

Prune them straight after flowering by clipping the sideshoots back to a few buds of the main framework. They should not be pruned in the winter, or you'll cut off all the shoots and lose the

new season's flowers.

March is the time to prune summerflowering clematis, the Group 2 types, which bloom on stems produced in the current season. They are pruned in late winter or early spring to remove much of last year's growth. If left unchecked they will produce flowers, but they will tend to be at the end of the plant where you probably won't be able to see them.

Group 2 clematis include many of the large-flowered hybrids, including the most famous pink striped variety 'Nelly Moser', the rich purple 'The President' and other popular types including 'Marie Boisselot' and 'Lasurstern'.

The aim with pruning Group 2 clematis is to retain a framework of old wood, and also to stimulate new shoots to maximise flowering throughout the season.

Unless the plant already has three or four healthy stems growing from the base, all newly planted clematis should be pruned back hard the first spring after planting. Cut back to just above a strong pair of leaf buds about 30cm above soil level. This will encourage multiple stems which can be trained into supports to give a good coverage.

With established plants, remove dead or weak stems before growth begins, check individual stems from the top down until you reach a pair of healthy

34 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

buds, and prune just above them, removing the spindly or damaged growth above. The ones that flower first in early summer, and again in late summer, need a tidy-up rather than a heavy prune.

Those which must be pruned now are those which don't start flowering until June, and keep going until the autumn, as they make vigorous growth and only flower on the very ends of the shoots.

They can be cut back to a pair of fresh green buds about 30cm in early spring, and then new growth tied into the supports.

Some mid to late summer flowering clematis can be treated as either Group 2 or Group 3, as desired, including 'Comtesse de Bouchaud', 'Gipsy Queen' and 'Hagley Hybrid'.

Group 3 are late summer and autumnflowering clematis including viticella and texensis and some large-flowered types including 'Niobe', 'Perle d'Azure' and 'Ernest Markham'. They flower on both last year's and the current season's growth.

In the first year, prune them back in late winter or early spring to the lowest pair of healthylooking buds you can find, which will be about 30-90cm above the ground. This may mean cutting off green, healthy shoots, but the plant will reshoot from the base and be better for it.

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Issue 81 • February / March 2018

35

In Theen Gard

February & March

Lupin

This wonderful cottage garden plant is among the most popular of all perennials, its large pea-like flowers amassed on large spires which reach around up to 4ft (120cm) in height in a wide variety of colours in early summer.

Lupins blend well into schemes featuring other cottage garden favourites including delphiniums and nepeta, or in mixed borders where the taller varieties can be put at the back and the shorter ones such

Best of The Bunch

as ‘Gallery Series’ used as fillers.

Other good varieties include ‘Band of Nobles’, which is a mixture of colours and ‘My Castle’, a dramatic dark red.

Lupins are easy to grow from seed but do need protecting from slugs when they are emerging. Cut off the dead flower stems complete with stalks when flowering has finished to encourage a second flush of flowers towards the end of the season.

Good Enough to Eat!

Sowing Peas

You don't need a load of fancy propagators and trays in which to sow peas. A piece of plastic guttering will do, provided you drill drainage holes in the bottom and then fill it with a peat-free seed compost. Make a head start in February by sowing the seeds evenly in two rows 2.5-5cm (1-2in) apart and 2.5cm (1in) deep, and water, keeping the containers on a windowsill or in an unheated greenhouse, although heat will speed up germination.

When the seedlings have a few leaves, they can be planted out under a cloche by sliding them out of the guttering and into a prepared shallow trench in the soil. Keep plants well watered in dry weather and weed regularly. After sowing, push pea sticks in along the rows of short-growing varieties, or erect posts with horizontal wiring supporting pea netting for larger types.

Good varieties include 'Feltham First', suitable for the earliest sowings and dwarf in size, needing little support, and 'Hurst Green Shaft', a delicious second early or maincrop variety growing to 75cm (2.5ft) tall and producing heavy crops.

36 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Jobs To Do...

• Place cloches over ground where early sowings are to be made.

• Continue to cut back faded foliage on herbaceous perennials.

• Sow under glass quick growing perennials to flower this year.

• Begin to feed plants in established borders using a controlled-release slow-acting fertiliser and try not to get fertiliser on the new foliage.

• Don't let your pond freeze over completely. Stick a floating ball in it.

• Top-dress year-round tubs and don't let sheltered containers dry out.

• Continue to plant soft fruit bushes and bare-rooted fruit trees if weather permits.

• Prune half-hardy fuchsias being kept under cover when the pink 'eyes' appear.

• Plant out ranunculus and anemones if the ground is not too wet.

• Prune out the old flowering heads from hydrangeas.

3 ways to...

1 2 3

Work with shade

Make the most of leaf colour in shade. Heuchera, ferns, euonymus and hosta will all provide green, yellow and red hues to brighten up a shady area.

Use shade-tolerant climbers such as Clematis montana, Hydrang ea petiolaris and Lonicera japonica to create interest on a north-facing wall or fence.

If you want to grow plants under trees, add plenty of organic matter around the planting area in autumn and sprinkle a balanced fertiliser around the plants in early spring, applying a mulch in late spring and watering thoroughly during dry spells in summer.

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Snippets By Paul Heley ess!! arrttiie ea e H H y y M M , o, Ho eH ve av ea He H

A Trip To The Historic Dockyard, Chatham

Back in Tudor times and until 1984, Chatham was one of the main naval dockyards in England. It was where HMS Victory was built, famous for Admiral Nelson and the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

Once in the dockyard, all exhibits are free and there are plenty of guides to take you on general tours around the place as well as specific guides at specific sites. However, one or two of the exhibits require a ticket for a visit at a particular time (so as to avoid congestion). For example, it’s necessary to get tickets for both the submarine, HMS Ocelot, and for the Victorian Ropery.

The No. 1 Smithery was originally (as the name suggests) where the heavy blacksmithing took place. Some of the equipment on view is absolutely massive and eye watering in its size. In the Bending Shop, pipes were fashioned to particular shapes and the floor is like a giant cribbage board, covered in holes into which great pins were placed in order to outline the shape required. The pipework was heated in a furnace until red hot then carried using enormous tongs and twisted around the pins so as to get the necessary shape. It was clearly a highly skilled job, particularly if complex shapes were required; and, undoubtedly, it was also very dirty, very hot, very noisy, and potentially very dangerous.

The Smithery was also where anchors and chain were made. Anchors could weigh up to 4 tons and were forged by hand which also meant highly skilled, heavy work. Consequently, anchorsmiths were given 8 pints of beer a day as compensation for the body fluid lost as sweat.

Within No. 1 Smithery, one can find rooms where models of ships - both sailing and steam - are displayed.

These are true works of art showing immaculate detail - some of the models took up to 4 years to make such

42 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

was the precision demanded. I learnt that model making was regarded as a necessary practice (before the days of computer controlled design) because, if anything went wrong with the actual ship, its scale model could be used if any alterations or modifications were needed.

In particular, the models of large sailing ships were fascinating. Especially with regard to their rigging since something like 31 miles of rope was found on a three masted sailing ship:- ropes of different sizes and for different purposes; hundreds of different examples stretching from every spot to every other spot. Amazingly, they all had a name and it was essential that if a seaman was told to pull on a certain rope he knew which one to pull!

It is said that it took at least two years for a seaman to “know the ropes” - a phrase we still use today.

In addition to the Ocelot, there are two other warships to see :- HMS Gannet and HMS Cavalier. The sloop, Gannet, dates from 1878 and is a hybrid sail/steam vessel so represents a time of change.

But the gun deck was based upon the old sailing ships with very small headroom and carrying 6 cannons each tied to the ship’s side so that, when fired, the recoil didn’t bring it back inboard. If this rope somehow broke, it could be very dangerous indeed with half a ton of cannon rampaging about a small space in a heavy sea.

So people were very wary of a “loose cannon” - another everyday phrase.

The C class destroyer, Cavalier, saw service during WW2 in the Atlantic as an escort to convoys of merchant ships bringing food to these shores and also as an escort on the infamous Arctic trips taking equipment and provisions to Murmansk in Russia. Many lives were lost on these trips either through enemy aircraft or submarines - and you had 4 minutes to survive in these freezing

Snippets By Paul Heley

waters. I recall a cemetery in Murmansk where some of these merchant seamen are buried. ess!! tiie ainrrtorder a e e As previously mentioned, a ticket is required to H H y y M o,, M Ho H e be shown around the submarine, HMS Ocelot. Cramped e v v a a e He H spaces don’t bother me – I used to go potholing when younger and even sillier - but sliding through the many small, circular hatchways linking the different sections of the boat together was not designed with octogenarians in mind! I must have slowed the group down considerably.

It soon became pretty obvious that to be a submariner, one has to be very different from normal mortals. Living cheek by jowl with 68 other sailors in a very cramped space is not everybody’s idea of fun; nor is not seeing the sun and sky for weeks on end; or there not being a shower; or having to wash in a cupful of water (since fresh water was at a premium); or having only two or Back Tudorof times and untilwhich 1984,had Chatham one three in changes underwear to last was for weeks; of the main naval dockyards in England.

It was where etc, etc. Many of the women in the party were visibly HMS Victory famous for Admiral Nelson and horrified whenwas toldbuilt, about the personal cleanliness and the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. general sanitation.

Without a doubt, the atmosphere on Once the dockyard, exhibits are and there are board in a sub after beingallsubmerged forfree a lengthy period plenty of guides to take you on general tours around the could become somewhat “whiffy”! place as ifwell as specific guidesrestriction at specificonsites.

However, I asked there was a height submariners one or two of the exhibits require a ticket for a visit atIa since being short seemed to have definite advantages. particular time was (so as avoid congestion).

Forlast example, was told there notorestriction and that the comit’s necessary to get submarine, HMS mander was six foottickets four! Ifor canboth onlythe imagine that he Ocelot, and for the Victorian Ropery. spent his entire life when on the Ocelot bent double!

The No.was 1 Smithery originally the and name sugOcelot in servicewas from 1964 to(as 1991 was very gests) where the heavy blacksmithing took place. advanced for her day. She is described as being ofSome of the equipment on meaning view is absolutely massive and eyeby diesel-electric design that her propulsion was watering in its size.

In the Bending Shop, pipesbywere electric motors whose batteries were charged a diesel fashioned to enabled particularher shapes thesilent floorand is like a giant engine. This to beand totally undecribbage board,incovered in holes great pins tectable when operation – andinto withwhich the batteries being were placed in order outline The later recharged whento it was safethe to shape run therequired. diesel engine. pipework heated in aconditions furnace until red hotnowadays then carHowever, was general living on board ried enormous and twisted around pins haveusing changed beyondtongs our wildest dreams since the those so as to getsurprise, the necessary shape.

It are waseven clearly a highly days.

And, surprise, there female skilled job, particularly if complex shapes were required; submariners today – something which could never have and, it was also very dirty, very hot, very beenundoubtedly, imagined in Ocelot’s days. noisy, and A ticket is potentially required forvery thedangerous.

Victorian Ropery where rope The Smithery was also where andback chaintowere is still made commercially but anchors which goes 1618. made.

Anchors weighinup to 4 tons and (as were The present set could up started Victorian times the forged by hand which heavy name suggests) and in also thosemeant earlierhighly days, skilled, hundreds of work.

Consequently, anchorsmiths were given 8 men were employed but as machinery gradually pints replaced of beer aof daythe as labour compensation the bodyfewer fluid and lost as so many intensivefor processes, sweat. fewer men were needed (causing considerable upheaval Within No. 1Most Smithery, oneall) cannaval find rope rooms wherefrom a and unrest). (but not is made models of the ships - both plant sailingcalled and steam - are displayed. variety of cannabis “hemp” which, in its These are true works of art showing immaculate raw state, comes in a bundle of unsorted “fibres”.detail Origi-nally, somethis of needed the models up to 4byyears to make such to betook untangled a process called

“hatchelling”, then spun into “yarns” (where a yarn was supposed to be able to hold a weight of 100 pounds).

The yarns were then manually twisted into “strands” but this slow process was overtaken by a machine called a “traveller” having a number of holes on a rotating wheel through which the necessary number of yarns are fed from “bobbins”. The yarns are fixed at the far end of the “ropewalk” and as the yarns are twisted, so the machine moves towards the far end, ie it travels.

Since some of the ropes required were extremely long, the ropewalk at Chatham is a quarter of a mile in length (and is possibly the origin of the saying which refers to someone telling a lengthy story, or making it last longer than necessary; he is said to be “spinning a yarn”).

The origin of another everyday phrase refers to when a ship needed to leave in a great hurry. The correct leaving procedure would be totally ignored and the ropes simply was the precision demanded. learntiethat model making chopped for the escape to be Imade, it was a case of was regarded as a necessary practice (before the days of having “cut and run”. computer controlled design) because, if anything went Clearly the thickness of the strand depended upon how wrong with the its individual scale model couldcould be used many yarns wereactual usedship, and an strand be if(and anyusually alterations or modifications were needed. was) the end point in the manufacture of a In particular, of large sailing ships were single “rope”.the Butmodels the process could continue if bigger, fascinating.

Especially with regard their rigging since stronger ropes were required such to that three of these something like 31 miles of rope was found on a three strands could be further twisted to make a “hawser” and, masted sailing(eg ship:ropes of different and for for a “cable” an anchor cable), threesizes hawsers weredifferent purposes; hundreds of different examples twisted together. Such cables could be 8 inches instretchdiaming spot to strong every other Amazingly, they eter,from wereevery enormously (and spot. enormously heavy). all had a name it was essential thatcomplicated, if a seaman was Although theseand processes sound very told pull on amany certain rope he knew which to pull! theretowere/are further variations on theone theme.

It is said that it took at least two years for a seaman to Dependent upon how the strands are twisted, so a rope “know the or ropes” a phrasethereby we stillmaking use today. can be left right-handed its behaviour In additionAlso to the Ocelot, areare two otherofwarships different. some of thethere ropes made different to seematerial :- HMS (eg Gannet HMS Cavalier.

The sloop, basic coir) and which, again, give different charGannet, frommaking 1878 and is a hybrid sail/steam acteristicsdates thereby it suitable for specific uses.vessel soon represents a time of change.

Also show is the Brunel sawmill which mechanised But the gunofdeck uponPreviously the old sailing ships the sawing thewas greatbased timbers. this was with small headroom and“dogs”) carrying 6 cannons donevery by two men (known as hand sawing each over tied to the sideabove so that, when fired,dog” the recoil didn’t a large pit. ship’s The man was the “top whereas bring it back If and this covered rope somehow broke, the poor chapinboard. in the pit in sawdust was the it“underdog”. could be very dangerous indeed with half a ton of cannon a small a heavy There isrampaging also the Bigabout Space wherespace shipsinwere builtsea. under So people verythis, wary of aof“loose cannon” cover sincewere before many the ships built -inanother the everyday open (andphrase. subject to the weather) could rot before the The C class building wasdestroyer, complete.Cavalier, saw service during WW2 in thethen Atlantic escort convoys merchant And thereasisan where thetomasts wereoflaid in salt water ships bringing food to these shores and also an escort to prevent their warping; and also the timberassheds on the the infamous Arcticwas tripsallowed taking to equipment andsoprowhere sawn wood season; and on; visions to Murmansk Russia. Many lives were lost on and so on.

There’s so in much. these trips either through or submarines In conclusion, I feel that aenemy trip toaircraft the Historic Dockyard -atand you hadis 4time minutes to survive Chatham very well spent. in these freezing

A Trip To The Historic Dockyard, Chatham

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Bedfordshire’s Night Sky

Spot Orion and Betelgeuse: Got a clear sky? Look south mid-evening in February or March and you’ll find one of the most iconic constellations in the heavens. Orion, with its belt of three stars embedded within a larger rectangle of four bright stars, is an easy pattern to pick out. Notice how orange in colour the top left star is in the rectangle. This is Betelgeuse – a red supergiant that is on the verge of exploding as a supernova.

ISS: The first two weeks in February this year is a great time to catch the International Space Station. Each evening between 6pm and 7:30pm look for a bright light moving steadily across the sky on a roughly west-toeast trajectory. It won’t flash or make a noise, and will take roughly 5 to 10 minutes to cross from one side of the sky to the other.

Venus & Mercury in March: Mid-March sees Venus and Mercury gather together low over the western horizon. To view this elusive pairing choose a stargazing spot with good elevation and a clear horizon to your west. Dunstable Downs is ideal. About 30-40 minutes after sunset you’ll notice a bright ‘star’ shining in the dusk light. This will be Venus. As the sky darkens you might pick up a second ‘star’ above or to the right of Venus. It’ll shine with less intensity and take on an orange or pink hue. This is Mercury.

19th March 2018 Looking West at 7:15pm

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DISCOVER Ashridge

Visitors Centre, Moneybury Hill, Berkhamstead, Hertfordshire. HP4 1LT

Cadbury Egg Hunt Fri 30th March - Mon 2nd April 10:00 - 16:00, £5 Per Child Hop like a bunny along our Easter trail and receive a chocolate egg as a prize.

The Cadbury bunny has fallen down the rabbit hole and been transported back in time. Help him learn about animals that have lived at Ashridge throughout the ages. Can you answer all the questions to claim your chocolate reward?

Look for the trail starting point at the gazebo on Monument Green (across from the visitor centre).

Due to possible weather conditions at this time of year the trail may be very muddy in places and not suitable for buggies. Please call ahead to check. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Dogs on leads are welcome.

Easter Crafts Mon 9th - Fri 13th April, 10:00 - 16:00, £2 Per Child Feb Half Term Trail Mon 12th - Fri 16th Feb, 10:00 - 15:00, £3 Per Child Come and take part in the exciting family half term activities we have on.

Join trail to learn more about the history of Ashridge and the people who have lived here though the ages. This is a childrens’ activity. Due to wet conditions, the trail may be muddy in places and therefore not suitable for pushchairs.

All children must be supervised by an adult. Dogs on leads are welcome.

EXHIBITION OPENING: Voices Sat 3rd March, 11:00 - 17:00, FREE Come along to the visitor centre for the opening of our new exhibition. ‘Voices’ celebrates the centenary of women’s suffrage in 1918 by showcasing some of Ashridge’s most influential women. The exhibition runs to February 2019.

48 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Come along and make your own Easter craft before enjoying a walk in the Ashridge woods.

All the materials and instructions are supplied, just bring your artistic flair! Crafts take place in the visitor centre. All children must be supervised by an adult. Dogs on leads are welcome.

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49 Order Prints www.allyearoundbbq.co.uk DORMANS Issue 81 • February / March 2018

What’s On Akeman Street Tring Hertfordshire HP23 6AP

Toddler Time At Tring Term Time Weekdays, 14.30 - 17.00 Borrow something special and help your toddler explore and play around the Museum.

Enjoy 5 different activities which rotate from day to day: Daring Explorers, Ocean Adventure, Find your Friends, Butterfly Quest and Animal Safari. Pick up your resources at admissions and enjoy them in the galleries. Suitable for ages 3 - 5.

Drop-in, no need to book.

The Million-Pound Museum 6th Feb 2018, 19.00 - 20.00, £4.50 Ever wondered how much founder Walter Rothschild spent on his zoological collection and Museum? Advance booking required, for information and tickets call 020 7942 6163

Welly Wednesday at Tring 7th & 21st February, 10.30 - 11.15, £2 per child Get hands-on in nature with your little ones.

Join this 45-minute led activity especially designed for 3-5 year olds. Explore an animals found across the UK through play, storytelling and creating an outdoorsy craft to take home. Drop in to this activity on the day. There is no need to book.

Walter’s Birthday Bash 9th Feb 2018, 17.00 - 20.00, Free Celebrate Walter Rothschild’s 150th birthday with party games and fun for all the family.

Discover the story of this incredible man as the galleries transform to reflect his life.Play Victorian children’s games and explore the new exhibition, What’s in the Woods? Follow in Walter’s footsteps to become a zoologist by crafting your own beetle and follow a trail of weird and wonderful animal names.

Discover his menagerie of living animals by handling real specimens and spotting them in the galleries. Chat with local experts to find out about the Rothschild family legacy in the local area Suitable for all ages. Drop in, there is no need to book.

Hunter Games 12th Feb 2018, 11.00-12.00 & 14.00-15.00 Free event, suggested donation £2 Go on the hunt around Tring Park to fill up predators’ stomachs.

Join us for a walk and fun game in the park to discover who eats who. Can you match the predator to their prey?

50 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

For Infomation Tel: 020 7942 6171

Explore exhibitions and events at www.nhm.ac.uk/tring.

This activity includes walking around the park and is most suitable for ages 5+. Please bring weather-appropriate clothing and footwear.

The meeting point is the quad at the Museum. Advance booking is required. For information and tickets call 020 7942 6163

Explore Woodland Creatures 13th &14th February 2018, £2

30 min workshops running from 10.15 - 15.30 (last workshop begins 15.00) Get hands-on with woodland animals and make a woodland craft to take home.

We’ll be exploring animals big and small, furry and feathery, nocturnal and diurnal that inhabit your local woodlands. Find out more about these secretive animals and make a piece of the woodland to take home with you.

This activity is a drop-in event suitable for ages 5+. There is no need to book in advance

Woodland Animal Sock Puppets 15th & 16th February 2018, £2

30 min workshops running from 10.15 - 15.30 (last workshop begins 15.00) Craft a furry friend to join you around the Museum and take home.

Discover the animals that live within our woodlands and make your very own woodland animal sock puppet.

This drop-in activity is suitable for ages 5+. There is no need to book in advance.

Behind the Scenes: Voyages of Discovery 22nd February 2018, 11.00 - 12.00, £10 Get a rare look at historical specimens and hear about the great lengths explorers went to for science.

Step behind the scenes to see the world-renowned bird collection including historic specimens linked to voyages of discovery made by Darwin, Wallace and Shackleton.

Get a rare look at historical specimens and hear about the great lengths explorers went to for science.

Discover the different types of scientific collections and how they are prepared, conserved and used by researchers from around the world.

Advance booking and photo ID is required. This event is suitable for adults only.

For information and tickets call 020 7942 6163.

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www.thevinemagazine.com 19 Issue 81 • February / March 2018 51

COLLEGE LAKE

Upper Icknield Way, Tring. HP23 5QG Tel: 01442 826774

www.bbowt.org.uk/whats-on

Nature Tots - College Lake

Please visit the website for more information and

Tue 20th February - 10am - 11.30am & 1pm - 2.30pm Tue 20th March - 10:00am - 11:30am Thurs 22nd March - 10:00am - 11:30am & 1pm - 2.30pm

to book your place on walks and activities.

College Lake Guided Walk Sat, 10th February - 10:30am - 12:30pm, £4 Join us for a walk around this wonderful site. You will be introduced to the various habitats of College Lake as well as some of the wildlife using the site. You will also find out about how we mange the site to benefit these plants and animals.

This guided walk involves a slow stroll around the site.

This is around 2 miles on easy terrain and will take approximately 2 hours.

We advise wearing shoes you feel comfortable walking in and that you don't mind getting muddy.

Booking essential. Age 11+

Skulldiggery!

Tue, 13th & 14th February - 10:00am - 1:00pm, £5 Join us at College Lake to find out about all things skulls, mud, and things that live underground! Booking essential Investigate and identify our skull collection, find out what an owl eats for tea, do some digging, and investigate the creatures that live, and have lived, on our nature reserve!

Hands-on discovery, crafts, quizzes, and activities- most suitable for children age 5-12 but great for the whole family to enjoy together. Book your tickets online, and come along at any time between 10-1 to enjoy the event.

Adults free but encouraged to get stuck in!

52 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Join us at College Lake with your pre-school little ones for seasonal nature discovery, games, craft, fun and exploration. Booking essential. Nature Tots is suitable for pre-school children. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Remember to dress for the outdoors!

Each session has a changing seasonal nature theme such as minibeasts, autumn colours, or using our senses.

We get together for a story in the Visitor Centre Hide, enjoy group activities as we move through the woods, garden and meadow, then take a break for a well-earned snack and drink when we get to the Barn.

After that we provide nature-themed free-play activities, which you can enjoy at whichever level is suitable for your little ones. Dip in and out, try what you like, and do ask if you’d like a bit more time to finish after the session is done. £5 donation a session per participating child Children must be accompanied by an adult Nature Tots is suitable for pre-school children Please dress for the outdoors- activities run whatever the weather!

Signs of Spring at College Lake Sun 25th March 10:30am - 12:30pm, £4 Join us on a guided walk around the reserve to look for signs of spring returning. Buds will be starting to burst, flowers will be starting to bloom and birds will be starting to sing. We love this time of year at College Lake and would love to share it with you.

This guided walk involves a slow stroll around the site.

This is around 2 miles on easy terrain and will take approximately 2 hours.

We advise wearing shoes you feel comfortable walking in and that you don't mind getting muddy.

Booking essential. Age 11+

(Payment only on completion and satisfaction)

Issue 81 • February / March 2018

53

Clubs & Groups DUNSTABLE & DISTRICT ART CLUB We meet at Chew’s House 77 High Street South, Dunstable on Monday mornings from 10.00am. Monday afternoons from 2.00pm and Thursday evenings from 7.30pm. We are an informal club who meet to paint together, all abilities are welcomed, the club has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere where we all try to encourage and help each other. We also run social painting days. A club exhibition is held every year where members are encouraged to enter paintings for display.

Contact: Derek 01582 611607 DUNSTABLE MEN IN SHEDS We are a group of slightly older men who meet on Monday, Wednesday and Friday’s between 10am and 1 pm to chat, drink tea and sometimes make useful items for local schools, charities and for ourselves from a range of materials. We have been loaned a Council building on the Meadway allotment’s as our manufacturing hub. Come and visit, all are welcome. We are on Facebook and aim to have a web site shortly.

For more information ring Martin on 01582 668598, or Terry on 01582 604476 WIDOWS & WIDOWERS CLUB We are an active Widows and Widowers club.

Meetings are held locally and new members are always welcome.

If you would like to make new friends and join in our many outings and activities please contact Jenny 01582 672766 or Val 01582 659717 or email Carol at carol.hodges@ntlworld.com

CURTAIN CALL THEATRE GROUP & YOUTH THEATRE Youth theatre open to children aged 5 - 16 Mondays 5pm - 7.30pm Eaton Bray Village Hall. Acting, Singing, Dance, Fun & Games!

Adult group (16+) Mondays 8pm 10pm Eaton Bray Village Hall. New members always welcome wheather on or off stage.

Call Gavyn 01525 220525 www.curtaincalltheatregroup.co.uk WEDNESDAY CLUB at NORTHALL VILLAGE HALL Are you or do you know of an elderly person in the Northall, Dagnall, Edlesborough, Eaton Bray or surrounding villages who might benefit from a social day out once a week? Why not come along to the Wednesday Club from 10.00am to 3.00pm. Our own minibus can pick you up, morning coffee and biscuits, home cooked lunch with pudding, afternoon tea and cakes. Play games and bingo, sale table, entertainment by visitors and outside club visits.

Join in as much or as little as you like, make new friends, very friendly atmosphere. Only £9.00 per week including transport.

Contact Anna on 07854 230243, please leave a message if no answer.

BEDFORDSHIRE GUILD OF WEAVERS, SPINNERS & DYERS. A friendly group of textile crafts people who meet in Flitwick Village Hall twice a month.

First Tuesday evening of each month 7.30 - 9-30 and Third Saturday, all day, 10.30 to 4.30.

We welcome visitors interested in seeing what we do, so please pay a visit to our website www.bedsguildwsd.blogspot.co.uk BEECROFT CRAFT & CHAT Beecroft Community Centre Westfield Road, Dunstable We meet on the 1st Wednesday of

54 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

every month between 10.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m on a “drop in/drop out” basis.

We meet to have a cuppa, chat and craft together in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

ALL CRAFTS WELCOME The first session is FREE Annual subscription £5.00 Session Fee: £3.00 Tel: Dorothy on 01582 606812 DUNSTABLE WI Dunstable WI meet two evenings a month on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at Watling Lower School Bullpond Lane at 7.00pm. We are friendly group and like to enjoy ourselves.

We have a wide range of speakers with different talents crafts, and also Quizz nights to test our brains. We welcome new members so join us and make new friends. 8th Febuary Highwayman and Women - Paul Healey 22nd Febuary: Members evening 8th March: Hat Parade - competion design a hat 22nd March: Birthday party 12th April: Tales of victorian ladies For more information telephone Barbara Fisher 01582 665252 NATIONAL TRUST All meetings are held at Salvation Army Centre, Dunstable. Guests are welcome at £3.00 As well as outing we also run a holiday once per year. If you would like to join the group, please contact, Lynder Power 01582 696193 or Janr Lingham 01582 606838 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, Philip Savage, on 01582 662462.

SAPHIRE SOCIAL CLUB We meet every Thursday at The Orange Tree Stevenage Rd Hitchin from 8.30pm. A small and friendly group for single people aged 50+. We offer a variety of social events during the month and the opportunity to make new friends. Potential new members are warmly welcome to come along and meet us with no joining fee for 2 months. For further info call/text Ian 07900 890583 or Joyce 07952 678021 www.sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk

ond Thursday, Toddler group every Wednesday term time only, Saturday coffee morning second Saturday every month, Carers drop in 1st Thursday every month. Neighbourhood chaplains befriending and support in the local community. Sunday morning services at 10.30am. Please contact 01582 602980 langdalechurch@talktalk.net SOCIAL GROUP We are a small group of people age 45+. If you like to have fun and enjoy yourself then please get in touch. No Membership required, just ring Tina for more information between 10am & 8pm week days 01582 619035

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! Tel Pam on 01582 872608 pamrumfitt@btinternet.com

NORTHALL TODDLER GROUP Northall Village Hall, LU6 2EX Join new mums, dads, grandparents and carers.Every Tuesday 9:30 – 11:30am (including school holidays) For children aged 0-5 years.

Tea, coffee, juices and healthy snack.

Come join in the fun, games and learning (inside and out) £2.50 during term time (per family) £1 per child during school holidays (Adults free & older children welcome) Tel. Sarah Cox on 07765 158182

NEW MOON MORRIS We are a mixed side dancing traditional dances from all over England – with our own twist – as well as choreographing new dances. We are particularly looking for new dancers.

We meet most Tuesday evenings 8:15 – 10:15 at Ivinghoe Town Hall, LU7 9EW (we advise that you check – in case we are ‘dancing out’).

Contact: squire.newmoon@gmail.com.

Find out more at: www.newmoonmorris.blogspot.co.uk

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.

Contact Eila: 07964291892

LANGDALE CHURCH Langdale church communities: Art group every week, Friends and Neighbours open to everyone speaker and refreshments every sec-

ARTS & CRAFTS Art & Craft for adults with learning difficulties every Wednesday 10.30am - 12.30pm & every Sat 11am - 1pm at Arttrend, rear of 440 Dunstable Road.Please see the web-

site www.arttrend.co.uk for all the details or phone 07794987796 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 Tel: Amanda Fletcher 01582 404479 DUNSTABLE BAPTIST CHURCH St Mary’s Gate (Middle of Ashton Square Car Park) Our Friends and Neighbours meetings are open to everyone on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month.

For more information contact David tel: 01582 872106

DANESBOROUGH CHORUS The Danesborough Chorus meets on Wednesdays 7.45 9.50 pm in Aspley Guise Village Hall. The new season started Wednesday 6th September, and we will be rehearsing Brahms’ German Requiem . If you’re interested, why not bring your vocal chords along for a few sessions? Please contact membership secretary Carol Yirrell on 01296 680328, or via our website at www.danesborough. org.uk. She’ll invite you to come along to a few rehearsals and see how you find it.

Issue 81 • February / March 2018

55

Clubs & Groups DUNSTABLE DAOS Tuesdays and Fridays, 7:45pm - 10:00pm We are Dunstable's premier Musical Theatre group. We perform out major shows, once a year, at The Grove Theatre in Dunstable along with concerts, small shows and so on. Find our Facebook Group or Facebook page for more details.

Email: daosuk@gmail.com STUDHAM W.I. Studham WI meet on the first Thursday of every month, 7.45pm at Studham Village Hall.

An open and friendly group of around 30+ ladies, we enjoy laughing and socialising, be it at our meetings, our monthly lunch outings, darts matches, quiz evenings, or at group and county events. If you’re interested in joining us, then come and try the WI! We’re always happy to welcome visitors to the majority our meetings. Visit: www. studhamwi.wordpress.com for more information, or find us on facebook – just search for “studhamwi”.

DUNSTABLE SALVATION ARMY FRIENDS TOGETHER (Over 60s ) We meet every Weds at Bull Pond Lane,Dunstable,LU6 3AH We have a Cup of Tea or Coffee at 1.00pm then the the meeting starts at 1.30pm - 2.30pm Weekly Subscription £2 The Programme consists of Various Speakers.Quizzies, Sing-ALongs, Musicial Artists. Lunch Club for Members on the first Weds of the month @£3 Also lots of good fun and Christian Fellowship. For more information tel: Maureen Dunn - 01582 759509

BEDFORDSHIRE NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY www.bnhs.org.uk Tuesday 20th February

MAULDEN Village Hall, MK45 2DP 8pm Talk ‘Wildlife Crime - How You Can Make A Difference’ by a Bob Hook of Birders Against Wildlife Crime. This is a group of volunteers who believe that we can all do something to help combat wildlife crime, by being “eyes in the field”. He will explain their “3Rs” and other campaigns (including Hen Harrier Day) and will want to know what concerns you have about the state of our wildlife today.

Sunday 11th March,

TRING 10:30am (F) Walk around College Lake, a BBOWT reserve with chalk grassland, woodland, scrub and hedgerows as well as marsh and open water. Introductory talk by a ranger followed by a self-guided walk. Entrance and parking on the B488 between the Pitstone roundabout and the canal bridge at Bulbourne. HP23 5QG. Leader: Sheila Brooke.

Wednesday 28th March

TOTTERNHOE 10:30am Walk on Totternhoe Knolls to find wintergreen Man Orchids and migrating birds. We will also look at the management of the site and the new grazing regime.

Park in the NT Car Park, LU6 1QU. Leader: Richard Knock.

DUNSTABLE GARDEN CLUB

Our evening talks for 2018 start on Monday 12th February ‘Cacti – a Potpourri’ Christian Taylor, a retired horticultural lecturer, talks about his lifelong interest in gardening and his wonderful collection of cacti.

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Monday 12th March Victoria Diggle tells us about the history and aims of the charity both locally and nationally.

Meetings are held in the Salvation Army Hall, Dunstable and commence at 7.30 pm. Visitors welcome £2 and Annual subscription £10.

Further information from Mary Chapman 01582 603710

TOTTERNHOE PLAYERS We are a friendly, supportive group for keen Am. Drammers aged 16 - 80+ and always welcome new members. We usually put on a panto, a murder mystery and either a comedy or variety show each year. You could be involved in one, two or all of these. Backstage help and potential actors equally welcome. We aim to make the most of the talents you can bring to our group. If your interests are in one of the back-stage disciplines, eg. lighting, sound, set construction, costume, admin, then you will be particularly welcome! We meet Wednesdays and most Fridays, 8pm - 10pm in Totternhoe to rehearse. Come along and meet us! Please call Els on 01582 758108 or Jo on 01582 603287 Check out our Facebook page: Totternhoe Players Amateur Dramatic Society Community or website: www.totternhoeplayers.org.uk To get advance information about forthcoming productions just join our mailing list: membership@totternhoeplayers.org.uk DUNSTABLE LADIES CHOIR Houghton Regis Baptist Church, Houghton Regis, LU5 5RG We’re a friendly local choir, always looking for new voices

to join us - no audition required!

We sing a bit of everything, from traditional choral pieces to songs from top musicals, with a few pop classics thrown in for good measure. Why not come along to a rehearsal, and see how you get on? Every Tuesday, 7.30pm to 9.30pm For more details, contact Pat Jackson on 01582 520302 or find us on Facebook ACTIVITIES AT STUDHAM VILLAGE HALL Monday Evening - Jive.

Tuesday

Morning - Mums and Tots, Afternoon - Scrabble Club, Evening - Salsa.

Wednesday Evenings – Bingo.

Thursday

Morning - U3A Carpet Bowls, Evening - Carpet Bowls Club.

1st Thursday evening in month – Women’s Institute (WI).

Main Hall and a Meeting room available for hire. Modern kitchen. Contact Des Salmon T: 01582 872082.

E: desstudham@btconnect.com LUTON AND DISTRICT PHILATELIC SOCIETY If you collect postage stamps, postcards or postal history why not come along and meet fellow collectors? We usually meet on the first Friday of the month* at Bushmead Primary School, Luton, LU2 7EU from 7.00pm to 10.00pm. Your first visit is free! New members are always welcome.(*Dates may change if the school is closed).

Call Fin on 01582 453244 or email finodon@hotmail.com for a programme of events or more information.

INCREDIBLE EDIBLE DUNSTABLE

Beacon for the Roots and Branches Project funded by the National Lottery Who we are:

We are a group of friends and neighbours that have cultivated a piece of land owned by Central Bedfordshire Highways on the junction of Duncombe Drive and Katherine Drive Dunstable LU5 4NP.

Why we are here:

To demonstrate how small actions can make a difference. By being incredible and growing food on public land for free builds community cohesion. If you need help with setting up your own incredible edible growing group we are here to help.

What we do:

Every month we host a work session called Come n grow which is on the third Saturday from 1-3pm. We meet like-minded people, make new friends, share skills, grow vegetables, tidy and maintain the structures in the garden. Also when the growing season starts the watering rota kicks in. Each day two volunteers buddy up and water a quarter of the garden plus any new plants and seedlings. We also have a tank filling rota for when the water in the garden runs dry. All training is provided.

Who comes to our Come n grows

Anyone! Everyone is welcome. Local residents, people from further afield, youth groups, schools and home ed groups. The more the merrier.

Our Come n grow dates are as follows: 17th February 17th March 21st April 19th May 16th June 21st July 18th August 15th September 20th October 17th November 15th December For more information please call Sahira on 07905 116623 Email: incredibleedible395@gmail.com

Issue 81 • February / March 2018

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Out & About CHILTERN GATEWAY Dunstable Road, LU6 2GY Tel: 01582 500 920

Stargazing Valentine’s Night 14th February 7pm - 9pm £18

Planetarium ticket, Space talk, astronomers, meteorite dealer and Pre drink & stargazing warmers.

A romantic journey into the stars with the experts from Dark Sky Wales, enjoy this Valentine’s with a closer look at Venus and Mars in the beautiful nights sky above Whipsnade Estate

Cadburys Easter Egg Trail Fri 30th March - Mon 2nd April £2.50 Per Child

Hop like a bunny along the Easter trail and receive a chocolate reward as a prize.

The Cadbury bunny has left a trail on Dunstable Downs! Can you follow the clues and discover the wildlife of Whipsnade Estate and Dunstable Downs? Get to the end and claim your chocolate reward

Saturday 17 February | 10am – 4pm

| £75

Introduction to small woodland management

An outdoor course designed for beginners to learn the basics of small woodland management and the ecology of biodiversity and heritage in the landscape.

Participants will learn a number of skills to build confidence in learning about the basics of woodland management.

The course will focus on practical outdoor experience in Maulden Wood and include coppicing, tree thinning and other principles of woodland management.

 Full day course with Colin Carpenter, a professional horticultural and ecological consultant - £70 per person, 18+ only  Suitable outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear required as well as strong work gloves and packed lunch  Book your place at: www.greensandtrust.org/Event/int roduction-to-small-woodlandmanagement

Easter Activities!

There will be lots more activities to join in with over the Easter holidays including Kite Flying and Easter Crafts!

Start your outdoor adventure and find out more by visiting our website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Thursday 15 February 11.30am – £4

Greensand Trust Talk: Walks Around Ampthill Park

Blunham Giant Book Sale Saturday 24th February 10:00 to 3:00pm Come to our Browse and Buy Second Hand Giant Book Sale at Blunham Parish Church.

(St Edmunds or St James, Park Lane Beds MK44 3NQ.) Selection of second hand/nearly new books, Homemade cakes, teas and coffees, homemade soup and a raffle. All proceeds to Blunham Church Fabric Fund

58 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

Discover three walks around this nationally important historic site, once visited by Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, and later landscaped by Capability Brown with our highly knowledgeable volunteer Kelvin Horton.

Find out about the new species of bats recently found in the park and which route to take to see them.

 Tickets £4 per person with tea & coffee provided - all proceeds go towards the environmental conservation work of The Greensand Trust. Parking charge of £1 applies.  Book here: www.greensandtrust.org/Event/wa lks-around-ampthill-park  The venue is The Working Woodlands Centre, Maulden Wood

Easter Weekend 14 - 17 April 10am – 3pm

Old Linslade Rd, Heath and Reach, Linslade Road LU7 0EB. Tel: 01525 234260 www.greensandtrust.org/rushmere-country-park

Tree Tops Talk: An Introduction to Herons Tuesday 6th Feb 11.30am

Our 2018 season of Tree Tops Talks kicks off with a subject very close to our hearts – an introduction to herons. Our highly knowledgeable volunteer Judith will take a look at the heron family with a little Hunt heron history, their breeding, biology and Easter Bunny eating habits closer look at the herons of Complete the trail and win and ana egg!

Rushmere, as we await their imminent return here Come and find eight wooden rabbits hidden  Tickets £3.50 per child in the park, answer the questions and win an to To avoid disappointment advance at to spend in the café) nest.

Ticketsbook £4in(inc £2 Easter egg. www.eventbrite.co.uk (search Easter Bunny Pick up your question sheet from the Herons’ Hatch, return it there with your answers to receive your chocolate egg reward.

An evening of Rat Pack classics with Ryan Beange

Hunt)  Or you can just turn up on the day of your choice at the Herons’ Hatch but numbers are limited

Friday 23rd Feb from 6pm

Making his first appearance at the Tree Tops Café, we welcome Ryan Beange who will perform songs from the Rat Pack era with classic big band hits from Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr, Dean Martin, Michael Buble and more. Food available from 6pm prior to performance starting at 7.30pm Tickets £15 per head (18+ only) and include a drink (wine or orange juice) and parking.

Natasha Seale – Live Jazz, Soul and Blues Friday 23rd March from 6pm

A firm favourite at the Tree Tops Café following three sell-out concerts Natasha bringstogether an all-star rhythm section from the UK jazz scene to present a mixture of contemporary classics and her own original songs. Food available from 6pm prior to performance starting at 7.30pm Tickets £15 per head (18+ only) and include a drink (wine or orange juice) and parking.

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Out & About

Totternhoe Players Totternhoe Players Present Totternhoe Players Present Beauty and the Beast Present

by Ben Crocker Beauty Beast Beauty andandthethe Beast

Donna's Dance School Ben Crocker Pantomimes Donna's Dance School and M&M Promotions Donna's Dance School and M&M Promotions and M&M Promotions February 2018 at 7.30pm & Saturday 3rd February at 2pm and 7.30pm

on with with

nd

Ben Crocker

by BenbyCrocker

by kind permission of Ben Crocker Pantomimes

by kind permission of in by association with kind permission of Ben Crocker Pantomimes

at Totternhoe Lower School, Totternhoe & Saturday 3rd February at 2pm and 7.30pm aturday 3rd February at 2pm and 7.30pm wer School, Totternhoe dults £7, Concessions r School, Totternhoe £5 kets £20 (2 adults and 2 concessions) 01582 603287 for tickets. Please note that tickets must be ordered and ncessions) advance. ssions) ease note that tickets must be ordered and e note that tickets must be ordered and

Friday 2nd February 7.30pm &

Saturday 3rd Februdary 2pm & 7.30pm

in association with Donna's Dance School At Totternhoe Lower School, Totternhoe and M&M Promotions in association with Donna's Dance School Tickets: Concessions £5February at 2pm and 7.30pm Friday 2Adults February £7, 2018 at 7.30pm & Saturday 3rd at Totternhoe Lower School, Totternhoe and M&M Promotions Family tickets £20 (2 adults and 2 concessions) nd

Tickets: Adults £7, Concessions £5

Friday 2 February 2018 atand 7.30pm & Saturdayfor 3rd February at 2pm and 7.30pm Family tickets £2001582 (2 adults 2 concessions) Box office 603287 tickets at for Totternhoe Lower note School, Box office 01582 603287 tickets. Please that Totternhoe tickets must be ordered and nd

paid for note in advance.

Please that tickets purchased in association within advance.

Donna's Dance School Tickets: Adults £7, Concessions £5 Family tickets £20 (2 adults and 2 concessions) Box office 01582 603287 for tickets. Please note that tickets must be ordered and and paid for in advance.

M&M Promotions

Coffee Morning

Friday 2nd February 2018 at 7.30pm & Saturday 3rd February at 2pm and 7.30pm at Totternhoe Lower School, Totternhoe

Are you planning an event in 2018?

Tickets: Adults £7, Concessions £5 th AmaWaterways Wednesday Family tickets17 £20 (2 adults and 2 concessions) January 2018 603287 for tickets.

Box office 01582 that tickets must be ordered and The TopPlease Votednote River Cruise Line paid for in advance.

Wednesday 21st February 2018

Visions of Greece

Paradise place on earth, Greece Do you need tois aspread thepossibly word?

America Travel Service We’d love toNorth hear from you...

Canada And The USA - The Land of Opportunity

Wednesday 14th March 2018

If you would like to include your event, club or group in our What’s On pages get in Leger Holidays touch,23it’s free!* Wednesday Battlefields And Escorted Coach Tours May 2018 Contact Shelly: Serenity Holidays Wednesday 13 Tel: 01525 222379 or 07852 453043.

June 2018 The Gambia, Cape Verde and Goa – Winter Sun Email: info@thevinemagazine.co.uk Destinations With A Difference Intrepid Wednesday 18th April 2018 Small Group Tours Giving You Real Life Experiences rd

th

Wednesday 18th July 2018

Avalon Waterways

You can also message and shareTo Riversend Cruisesus WithaSpace To Relax & Freedom Explore page, (search events/news to our Facebook The Vine Magazine), or upload your events Every month we will be holding on our website, it’saeasy and FREE! free event where you can come along and have a www.thevinedirectory.co.uk cup of tea or coffee and

biscuits a free talk about a *Free to charities and nonwith profit organisations. different type of holiday from an industry expert!

Each talk starts at 11:00am.

60 www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

ary 6pm 11 Febru y a d n u S

W NE 018 R2 FO

TAKE ON THE NEW ULTIMATE CHALLENGE!

at Keech Hospice Care, Luto n

FIREWALK

Sunday 11 February 3pm at Keech Hospice Care, Luton

lk over Will you wa for us? entry HOT COAL(AS ge 18+) £25 Sign up at: www.keech.org.uk/firewalk or call: 01582 707940 Registered Charity No. 1035089

£5 entr y (Age 6+ )

Sign up at: www.keech.org.uk/legowalk or call: 01582 707940

Registered No.1035089 1035089 RegisteredCharity Charity No.

Issue 81 • February / March 2018

61

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Issue 81 • February / March 2018 www.cladwinds.com

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