The Vine, Dunstable Villages - April/May 2013 - Issue 7

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This Month...

St George’s Day 4 May Day 6 Town At The Crossroads 8 Successful Studying 10 A Travellers Tale 12 What’s Best For You 20 In The Garden 28 Auto-biographies 30 Technology 32 The Nutrition Coach 34 Natural Health 36 Hair & Beauty 38 Jog On 40 Puzzles 42 Out & About 44

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3

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St George’s Day 23rd April

H

e’s most famous for slaying a dragon, but how much do we know about St George, the patron saint of England?

Born in Eastern Turkey in AD 270 to Christian parents, George later moved to Palestine where he became a soldier in the Roman army. He subsequently rebelled against the Roman Emperor for his persecution of Christians. Imprisonment and torture followed, but George refused to denounce his Christian faith. Enraged at this, the Emperor had George dragged through the streets, and beheaded him on 23rd April AD 303.

George’s alleged encounter with the dragon occurred in Libya. The dragon is said to have built its nest by a fresh water spring and was offered sheep by townsfolk to distract him whilst collecting water. With all the sheep gone, they decided to offer a maiden instead. The lot fell on the poor crown princess, but at the moment of offering, George supposedly came by on his white stallion, dismounted and slew the beast with his sword.

George is identified with English ideals of charity, chivalry and courage, and thus symbolises the very essence of 'Englishness'. Campaigners are currently working to get St George’s Day recognised as a national holiday, but for now, it is traditionally celebrated by flying the English flag, wearing a red rose and singing ‘Jerusalem’ on the Sunday nearest the 23rd April!

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May Day May Day is celebrated on the first Monday of May. This year it falls on the 6th. To most people it is simply a good excuse for a day off work but it is actually a day steeped in tradition.

May Day originates from village celebrations marking the coming of summer (fingers crossed) and these are some of the traditions that often take place amongst a day of festivities.

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Maypoles are hung with greenery and ribbons and painted brightly. Local children dress in their finest clothes, with bells and flower garlands, and perform traditional ribbon dances such as Gypsy Tent and The Spiders Web. Originally maypoles were made by villagers using a young tall tree. They stripped off the lower branches, but left leaves at the top to symbolise new life, and then decorated it with flowers and ribbons.

The Crowning of the May Queen is linked to the honouring of Flora the Roman goddess of fruit and flowers. Traditionally she took no part in games or dancing, but sat like a queen in a flower-decked chair to watch her 'subjects.'

Morris dancing is a traditional form of English folk dancing carried out by groups known as sides. Dances are passed down through generations, and involve movements to accentuate the tinkling of bells attached to costumes and coming together to strike wooden sticks. Loud accordion music accompanies the dancing.

Sometimes dancers paint their faces black, and this association with the North African Moors may explain the origins of the name ‘Morris’ dancing.

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Dunstable

S

The Town At The Crossroads - Part VI

o what had been going on in Dunstable and elsewhere during the hundred years between Henry 1st having set up his business centre on our crossroads and the completion of the Priory opposite the existing royal palace of Kingsbury? With two such imposing buildings in place, and with the rapid development of international business, Dunestaple was fast becoming a place of note.

But to retrace our steps a little, there were two personal tragedies which befell King Henry. In 1118, Queen Matilda died and, although he married again, there were no further children beyond his legitimate son (William) and daughter (also Matilda). However, Henry felt his succession was secure with William but in 1120, William was drowned in what is known as “The White Ship Disaster” (which is a long story in itself). Henry was absolutely devastated and was said “never to smile again”.

Consequent from the loss of his son, the succession was now in question (and throughout the whole of the Middle Ages, succession was always severely, and usually bloodily,disputed - as we shall see). Henry’s solution to the problem was typically radical in that he nominated his daughter to be his successor and, what is more, he insisted that the English and Norman nobles recognise the fact and to swear their alliegance.

But it wasn’t a popular move since, at the time, women were considered to be totally irrational (I’ll drink to that!) and unable to deal with matters of state. Also, Matilda - usually called Maud so as to avoid confusion with her mother - had married the Count of Anjou in France which meant 1) the Normans didn’t fancy one of their arch rivals ruling the roost; 2) the English had had enough trouble with the Normans already and didn’t look forward to more French; 3) Maud was extremely unpopular in

that she was incredibly arrogant, ill mannered, rude, spiteful - and everything else which isn’t very nice.

The English, for their part, favoured Stephen, Henry’s nephew, who was the exact opposite to Maud and very well liked.

However, Henry has said “sign on the dotted line” and so they (very reluctantly) did so. But it was a bad omen and heralded a bitter civil war between those who supported Maud and those who changed their mind and reneged on their pledge. The war itself quickly followed Henry’s death - reputedly from a “surfeit of lampreys” - at Caen in 1135 which prompted Stephen to grab his opportunity and be crowned by a willing English clergy and pronounced King.

Needless to say, Maud was not at all happy about this!

Although the war between Maud and Stephen is extremely confusing (with lots of changing sides, and largely conducted through repeatedly seiging opponents’ castles), Dunestaple kept clear of actual skirmishes - but Berkhamsted, Bedford and Luton were not so lucky - due to the fact that it had no aristocratic Lord of the Manor who favoured one side but was basically a Church governed society and, therefore, left alone. It cannot be said that Dunestaple escaped scot free, however, since there were the usual hordes of marauding troops from either camp ravaging the town from time to time.

The war was incredibly brutal and it was said that “Christ and his saints were asleep” over this period.

Stephen opened his reign by holding court at Kingsbury in 1136 immediately prior to the war. Years later, after both sides had battered themselves to a standstill and Stephen’s son, Eustace, had died (thereby ruining the succession), a compromise was reached. This said that Stephen could remain King until he died - he was now in very bad health - and that Maud’s

By Paul Heley

son, Henry, would succeed him.

Stephen held his final court at Kingsbury in 1154 when the 88 years Norman dynasty was passed over to the first of the Angevins, Henry.

Thus the civil war ended, Maud was partially appeased and Henry 2nd’s 35 year reign brought great prosperity to Dunestaple as an international business centre.

Following Henry 2nd, there was the 10 year reign of Henry’s son, Richard (the “Lion Heart”) who spent virtually all his time fighting in the Crusades. He, in turn, was succeeded by his brother, John (of Magna Carta fame and much bad press). It is interesting to note that all the above events took place whilst the Priory was still being built! It was not until 1213 - during John’s reign - that the Priory was eventually consecrated. It had taken at least 80 - most likely many more - years to build.

Dunstable can claim a “first” from this period in that it is likely that the first miracle play ever performed in England took place in Dunestaple in the opening years of the 12th century. Geoffrey de Gorham had started a school here and his pupils put on a play about St. Catherine of Alexandria’s grisly martyrdom using revolving knives.

Very nasty. Her memory lives on in the form of “Catherine Wheel” fireworks.

Question : Can Dunstable boast anyone else from the medieval period who was a first in his particular field?

The answer to last month’s hangover question about members of the Fraternity :- High up, where the rafters meet the wall in the Priory Church, there are 14 carved wooden figures including a chaplain and a scholar. The others hold shields and livery representing trades and guilds and it is thought they might be statuettes of the “committee” responsible for organising the lowering of the roof in the late 1400s.

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Successful Studying and so on. Think about the time of day that you work best – some people are night owls while others get more done in the early morning.

Plan a ten-minute break in every hour and don’t work for more than three hours at a time.

Now divide the topics you need to learn into manageable chunks. To help memorise information, make notes and put as much as you can Preparation is the key to revising effectively. Make sure you know what into your own words. Summarise key points and write them on index type of exams you will have – short questions, multiple-choice or essays cards or sticky notes that you can put around the house. You may find that – and what topics they will cover. making a spider diagram or mind Organise your course notes and textbooks so that everything is easy to map is helpful.

Try inventing your own mnemonics, find. Work out how much time you have for each subject and don’t avoid such as Never Eat Shredded Wheat for the points of the compass. You the ones that you find particularly can also visualise a scene that indifficult – or easy. cludes details you need to remember Make a timetable, but don’t spend – a battlefield or mountain habitat, for so long making it look beautiful that example. you’re behind before you start! ReMake the most of revision classes ofmember to include your other comfered by your school or college. You mitments and try to maintain your normal routine of mealtimes, exercise could also revise with a friend – prac-

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tice explaining difficult concepts and ask each other challenging questions.

Get hold of as many old exam papers and example questions as you can.

Familiarise yourself with the way questions are worded and make sure you understand exactly what they are asking you to do. Prepare draft answers to questions that come up frequently. When the exam gets close, complete a paper within the time limit to get an idea of how quickly you need to work.

To keep motivated, reward yourself with a weekly treat such as a trip to the cinema or a favourite meal. But if it’s not going so well, don’t give up!

Adjust your timetable and focus on the areas you find most difficult, or common questions. Keep thinking about what a good grade will bring – a university place or that dream job.

The night before the exam, have a quick look through your notes, but don’t cram. Get an early night so you wake up refreshed and ready to go.

Good luck!

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A Travellers Tale

By Paul Heley

Over The Top And Round The Corner (Part II)

A

fter North Cape, we moved into Murmansk around breakfast time. There then followed four hours of thumb twiddling whilst Russian Immigration and Customs officials checked everything in sight and went through every piece of paper. All done without smiling Russian paranoia and the bureaucratic mind is something known only to psychologists. Eventually we were allowed to go ashore but only if we carried our passport at all times and were in possession of special pieces of paper which had to be surrendered when required. I got the impression that if we made a mistake, we would be clapped in irons and thrown in a dungeon.

The incredible irony is that Russia is supposedly encouraging tourists to visit their country!!

We were eventually taken on a tour around the city and it was then that the previous lecture really hit home.

Murmansk had been described as being a Soviet city since it wasn't built until after the end of WW1 and the Russian revolution. Consequently, the housing was built on a Soviet design :- unbelievably tiny, mind numbingly identical, tatty apartments. The architecture is unchangingly boring and, basically, horrible, awful.

As an antidote, we were taken to a maritime museum where some wonderful models of different nuclear powered ships - especially ice breakers - were displayed. Murmansk is the centre of the Russian ice breaker fleet and is also an important naval base - so perhaps there was a reason for the paranoia

12

after all.

Another museum showed the local geology (wonderful mineral specimens) and the history and life style of the indigenous Sami people of Lapland and the Kola peninsula. I must confess that our guide was extremely good, spoke excellent English and, unlike the officials in the morning, had a sense of humour. My impression of Murmansk improved greatly during the afternoon!

To end our trip ashore, we were taken to a massive, 35.5 metre (110 ft) tall statue depicting a Russian WW2 soldier; then to the cemetery where so many sailors who perished on the terrible "Russian convoys" are buried. Our guide insisted that the Russian people are eternally grateful for the ultimate sacrifice made by so many (mainly) British merchant sailors who perished in these freezing northern waters.

Next day at sea was rather chilly but sightings of porpoises, minke and beluga whales caused great excitement. But the highlight of the morning for me was a lecture on the "Kursk" submarine disaster in 2000.

The abiding horror is that this total loss of life could have been avoided had the Russians accepted British and American help sooner. That they didn't is down to Russian paranoia - again - and the disgraceful and callous behaviour on the part of President Putin whose comment afterwards was simply that "It sank".

Later in the day there was a lecture attempting to explain Russian paranoia and why they fear outsiders.

This was helpful and informative

and went a long way towards explaining the noticeable gulf between ordinary Russian people and their governmental officials whose motto is "Paranoia rules OK".

I was interested to learn of the extensive gas and oil fields discovered in the Barents Sea and of the scrambling between various nations eager to get their snouts in the trough.

Also of the fears of naturalists and ecologists regarding the unthinkable consequences in this fragile area when a blow out, or an oil spill, or --??-- happens; as it most certainly will despite protestations to the contrary from vested interests.

The next point on our itinerary was, to many of the passengers, what the cruise was all about: namely the Solovetsky Islands - an archipelago of history, mysticism, religion, pilgrimage, cruelty and contradiction; and in the morning, the onion shaped domes of the monastery greeted us as our zodiac powered its way across a glass like sea. The scene was ethereal, unfamiliar, unreal, "other worldly".

During Soviet times the monastery was chosen as a gulag for political prisoners - the Soviet equivalent of Alcatraz! There is scaffolding supporting crumbling towers and signs of restoration everywhere; and it was suggested that if we were to return in twenty years time, it would be absolutely magnificent and back to its former glory. They are trying very hard - with limited resources and, if our guide was anything to go by, they are obsessed in their efforts and in their dedication to what they see as a very noble cause.

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13

A Travellers

Tale

(Continued)

Although there is evidence of habitation as early as the Bronze Age, the religious history of the main island starts in the early 15th century when an original hermitage gradually evolved into a monastery with a number of separate churches within its overall complex. But there has always been a grimmer side and, following rebellion by the monks against the "established" church in the mid 16th century, there followed centuries when it was also used as some form of prison for those convicted of "Crimes against Faith and State". I find it difficult to accept the concept of a prison and a monastery operating simultaneously! However, its worst episode as a prison is undoubtedly the Soviet gulag when the monastery, as such, ceased to exist and many of its priceless treasures were either deliberately destroyed or melted down.

Over our two day stay at Solovki, we we shown round different churches with their visually explosive gilded artefacts, paintings, and icons by the hundred; together with other buildings some of which had been for the gulag prisoners (100,000 prisoners and 40,000 deaths).

A terrible contradiction 'twixt God and Stalin.

The morning we left, the monks conducted their weekly (weather permitting!) parade round the monastery walls chanting and carrying icons. They were followed by scores of pilgrims hoping to be blessed and to receive a scattering of holy water. It was an enjoyable and colourful spectacle but quickly over because the Patriarch at the front set a cracking pace. He clearly wanted to get home to watch the football on TV! Sailing overnight for Arkhangelsk (Archangel) and arriving there around breakfast time, we were taken on yet another coach tour. On an earlier lecture, we had been told that whereas Murmansk was a "Soviet" city, Arkhangelsk was "Russian" and, I must confess, the contrast between the two is considerable.

In the morning we were shown an area of town where some interesting, old wooden buildings have been preserved. Then the obligatory church was followed by another obligatory museum where the super enthusiastic curator showed us many "rescued" icons and religious artefacts (NB "rescued" means "hidden from the Soviets"!). Speaking personally, I was very impressed with some exquisite carvings in walrus, narwhal (and even mammoth) ivory. The intricate filigree detail and sheer workmanship was incredible.

In the afternoon, it was off to the open air museum of Malye Korely where original wooden buildings representing the different architecture of surrounding regions

have been carefully transported and reconstructed.

Greeted first by an amazingly tuneful and complicated virtuoso performance by a solitary chap in his bell tower, we were then greeted in the traditional Russian way by being given bread and salt. I'm afraid my bread was rather stale - must have been yesterday's!

After that we were escorted by ladies in the traditional, and very colourful costumes of their particular areas, shown around some of the buildings and told stories of Russian peasant family life in earlier times.

That evening panic stations: because very early next morning we had to leave to catch the 'plane to Moscow. We left Archangel in pouring rain but fortunately Moscow was fine and sunny so we could experience the delights of grid locked Moscow traffic during the 56Km journey into the city. It was also interesting to witness the many examples of suicidal driving. Dunstable crossroads - all is forgiven!

Stopping at the vast expanse of Red Square, we gawped at the iconic buildings seen so often on TV and in photographs. Then a "typical" Russian lunch (beetroot soup, beef stroganoff and a "mystery" dessert) before another 50+ Km journey to the other airport followed by tedious, endless (and still unsmiling) security checks prior to our 4 hour flight back to Heathrow and home.

It had been a very different sort of holiday and many unusual memories remain. In particular, it was interesting to try and get some reaction from our various Russian guides as to how they viewed the transition from Soviet communism to today's capitalism. Although there was a reluctance to get too "political", I felt that, in the main, they preferred the present system on balance.

But it is clear that not everyone agrees: some older people definitely prefer the communist system where everyone knew where they stood; everything was ordered; everyone had a job (however futile); and providing you kept your nose clean, you were left alone.

And I detected an unstated complaint against the present system whereby, although society is much more free now and people can speak their mind (within reason), the great problem of life today is the endemic corruption where the former communist bureaucracy and its stultifying numbness has been swapped for a gung-ho, Mafia style "Wild West" system.

In comparison with Norway - which must be the most civilised country in the world - Russia comes a poor second. However, they could help themselves tremendously if only their officials could learn to relax a bit and realise what a difference a friendly smile can make

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Audrey’s Story - If you enjoy a story with a happy ending this is a good one! A few months ago an abandoned puppy with a badly deformed leg was brought into the kennels. The vet decided that it would be in her best interest to remove the leg because it would cause her problems. Brave little Audrey made a good recovery from the op and she adapted very well to having three legs.

The best bit of this story is that a member of our kennel staff fell in love with her and, when she was fully recovered, adopted her. I am delighted to report that Audrey has settled in very well with her new family of three other dogs and four cats!

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If you can offer a loving and secure home to one of our dogs why not come and visit us? We are open every day between 10a.m. and 4p.m. and our friendly staff members are always happy to give information and advice.

Please note that we have restrictions on rehoming dogs to families with children under 7 years of age, so please ask for details.

QUIZ TIME!

Friday 19Th April, 7.30 P.M Join us for our Spring Quiz at Northall Village Hall.

Tickets cost £5 and are available from the kennels. Bring your own drinks and nibbles!

100 MILES SPONSORED BIKE RIDE

Forget Me Knot Pet Bereavement LEAFLET AVAILABLE

Sunday 28Th April

A team of cyclists is setting off bright and early from Appledown to cycle 5 circuits of 20 miles to raise money for the kennels. Please sponsor them by calling Appledown or donate on www.justgiving.com

FUN DOG SHOW & CRAFT FAIR Sunday 12Th May

Bring the family and the dog along to Appledown for a fun day out! Enter the dog show classes on the day. Show opens at 11 a.m. classes commence at 12 noon. If you would like to book a pitch (£15) to sell your craft items please phone the kennels or e-mail ilshad@live.co.uk for more information.

Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels, Harling Road, Eaton Bray, Beds LU6 1QY Reg. Charity No. 1116848 Call 01525 220383 E-mail appledown.kennels@btinternet.com Facebook – Appledown Rescue and Rehoming Kennels.

18

Support with pet loss Before the decision During the heartache After the journey The relationship shared with each pet is quite unique and we all grieve differently over individual pets.

It is perfectly normal and acceptable to grieve over the loss of a pet.

Carol Winton AACC Diploma with ‘Credit’ through www.animalcarecollege.co.uk Please give me a call on 07796 302657 or email moggsandmutts@gmail.com

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What’sBestForYou

Savings

Imagine a limbo dancer who’s been lowered down a mineshaft.

Saving rates are currently even lower than that!

In November last year I noted saving rates were at their lowest levels for 300 years – and they’ve plummeted since.

So if you’ve got savings, making them work for you is even tougher than ever. Here are the 10 things you need to cover right now.

Even the best easy access account is currently offering only 2% AER

This sets the benchmark for everything else. But, remember, if the best is this bad, what’s yours offering? If you can’t answer that, check.

The top paying account is currently from Derbyshire Building Society (thederbyshire.co.uk), with unlimited no-notice withdrawals. This includes a 1.5% year-long introductory bonus, which effectively acts as a rate promise for that time. After that, ditch and switch.

Rates are currently dropping by the day, so for constantly updated info, see www.moneysavingexpert.com/topsavings

Earn 3% AER (plus cashback) in a current account

Bizarrely, for the best easy access savings, grab a Santander 123 (www.santander.co.uk/123) bank account. New and existing customers with £3,000£20,000 get 3% on the whole amount.

There is a fee of £2 a month, though as it also pays a nice 1%-3% cashback on bills such as council tax, phones and energy, that should easily cover it. This leaves many making £10 a month or more on top.

Get 4% AER if you can put money away each month

20

Regular savings accounts offer hot rates, but only let you save a limited amount each month. To save a lump sum, drip-feed it from a top easy access account.

The top rates are often linked to bank accounts, so check yours. If not, the top deal open to all is Norwich & Peterborough’s 4% AER fixed for 12 months (with a maximum deposit of £250 month).

You must pay in every month, and not make more than one withdrawal in the year.

Earn 8% interest lending money to others

This can work extremely well, earning some up to 15%. Your money’s lent via special sites uk.zopa. com, fundingcircle.com (which lends to businesses) and ratesetter.com. They credit-check borrowers can afford to repay, and chase repayments if they fall behind. Many have earned decent returns, but unlike savings, they’ve got no Government protection.

This can be extremely lucrative. But it isn’t without risks, which you must understand before embarking on it. So please read my full peer-to-peer lending guide at www.moneysavingexpert.com/peer2peer to see if it’s right for you.

Make the most of your tax-free cash ISA savings (get 2.5% AER)

A cash ISA is just a savings account you can put £5,640 a year in, where the interest’s tax-free.

The top easy-access deal is Cheshire BS’s 2.5%. It also allows you to transfer in past years’ cash ISAs – so you can boost them too. Check yours now, and transfer across if needed. This rate includes a 2% bonus for 18 months, effectively acting as a rate promise for that time, but you’ll want to transfer out afterwards.

If you can wait to access your cash, Coventry Building Society’s 60-Day Notice ISA pays 2.8% on balances from £1, guaranteed until December 2013, but it doesn’t allow transfers.

Your kids can earn 6%

The branch-based Halifax Kids’ Regular Saver pays a huge 6% AER fixed for a year (max £100/month) if you are prepared to lock cash away. It’s head and shoulders above all others for rate.

Annoyingly, those in Scotland need to go to a Halifax branch to open it (though not after that) and there aren’t any north of the border. But if you’re tripping south, it’s a not bad stop-off on the way.

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Repaying debts & mortgages

Think about it. £1,000 credit card debt at 18% costs £180 a year, but the same in savings, after tax, earns £15 at best. So pay off the debt with the savings and you’re £165 up. Pay off credit cards even if you haven’t got an emergency fund, as if a real emergency (the roof caving in, not needing this season’s shoes) came, you could simply borrow back on the card and be no worse off than when you started.

With mortgages, if their interest rate (eg, 5%) is higher than the after-tax rate on savings (eg, 1.5%), it makes sense to use the savings to overpay them. With rates so low, many are now in this category.

Yet... a) Check there are no penalties for overpaying.

If there are, it’s very likely not to be worth it. b) Keep enough cash to keep you afloat for three to six months, as unless you’ve an offset mortgage, you can’t borrow back on it once you’ve repaid it.

The benefit of this can be huge: overpaying £100 a month on a £100,000 mortgage at 4.5% saves £18,000 interest over a 25-year term. Work out your own scenario at www.moneysavingexpert.com/overpaycalc

Is it worth locking cash away to get 2.25%?

Normally, locking cash away without access gives a high fixed rate. Right now, the rates are horrid – though, of course, rates could keep plummeting – making these look good with hindsight.

Even so with rates this low, it’s questionable whether fixes, especially longer ones, are worth it. Top payer over one year is currently Virgin Money with 2.25% AER.

Premium bonds for higher-rate taxpayers

I can’t believe I’m saying this, but if you’re a high-rate taxpayer, think Premium Bonds. I’ve never been a fan, and the current prize rate’s just 1.5%. But, as it’s taxfree, that’s equivalent to 2.5% AER for higher-rate 40% taxpayers. You’d still need luck to get it, but for high-rate taxpayers who’ve filled their ISA up, the chance of beating top savings isn’t bad. To see your chances of winning, try www.moneysavingexpert.com/premiumbondcalculator

A few final important savings quickies

a) Unless I’ve noted it, all the accounts I’ve listed here have full £85,000 UK savings safety protection. If you’ve more, consider spreading across multiple accounts. b) To cut tax, if you’re a couple, put savings in the lower taxpayer’s name. c) If you’ve kids, as some of their accounts pay higher rates, saving in their name pays. But if they earn more than £100 a year interest from it, it’s taxed at your rate.

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&

At Home In The Garden If your radiators feel cold at the top and warm at the bottom, it is likely that air trapped inside them – a common problem that can be fixed quite easily by bleeding them.

First, determine which radiators are affected.

Switch your central heating on, and then check that each radiator is heated uniformly. Any with cold spots will need bleeding. Before bleeding, turn off the central heating to prevent more air entering the system.

Bleed the radiator by inserting a bleed key (supplied with your radiator and available at DIY stores) in the bleed valve at the top of the radiator, whilst holding a cloth or small bowl underneath to catch any leaking water. With your hand wrapped in a cloth for protection, slowly turn the key anticlockwise until a hissing sound occurs. This is the trapped air escaping.

Once the hissing stops and water starts to drip

out (usually after a few seconds), close the valve back up.

Repeat this process for all affected radiators.

Turn the central heating back on once finished, and check your radiators after a couple of hours to ensure they have a uniform temperature, and that no water is leaking from the bleed valve.

Do this once a year to keep your central heating in tip-top condition.

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In The Garden

Kids

It’s never too early to get children interested in gardening and where their food comes from. I’m sure, even the fussiest child whould be prepared to try a warm, sweet strawberry or raspberry straight from the plant or a handful of peas out of the pod.

While we’d all love a string of willing, young, helpers on the veg plot you do have to be realistic. Children can have short attention spans, will only want to do jobs that appeal to them, and usually expect quick results. So how can you encourage your little ones, without boring them out of the garden, or having them dig up your row of prize leeks?

If it is at all possible give children a space that is completely their own. Get hold of some good quality child size tools and encourage their attempts even if it isn’t quite what you’d have done.

If digging holes and making mud pies is more in their line than neat rows of seedlings perhaps they could create a wildlife area? A shallow dish sunk into the ground can be used by birds, frogs, toads and hedgehogs, and a log pile will be home to all sorts of insects or possibly even a hedgehog.

In spring have a “tallest sunflower competition”, not only is it fun but they will learn how to feed and water plants and actually see the fruits of their labour!

They can keep some dried out seeds for next year and feed the rest to the birds in winter. Wild flower seeds are also a good idea as they can simply be scattered and tend to be brightly coloured which appeals to children. In time they will also encourage useful insects and birds - natural pest control!

Keen young growers can browse seed packets or catalogues to see what takes their fancy. Quick growing crops are a good suggestion. Radishes and salad 28

leaves pop up in no time at all and should give almost instant satisfaction!

Sweet young carrots are likely to tempt even picky eaters, as are those lovely little cherry tomatoes. Popping peas out of their pods is very appealing and how about growing their own hideaway in the form of a lush green wigwam of peas or beans? They might shy away from anything green on their plates, but they might find plenty of chopped, homegrown chives, basil, marjoram/ oregano and thyme only improves their favourite pizza or bolognese sauce.

They may not be keen on eating greens, but there is certainly a much better chance that they’ll be tempted to try something they’ve grown themselves.

Fruits, such as strawberries and raspberries are usually popular, if you haven’t got any of your own you can always get them enthusiastic by having an afternoon out at the pick your own farm.

Ready grown plug plants are good for helping set up an ‘instant’ plot - take a trip to the garden centre to see what is on offer. If you already have seedlings started, then they could have the choice of some for their own pot (and you can see whose grows best!).

Finally, don’t forget ‘indoor’ growing activities. At any time of the year, children can start to understand the concept of things growing from seed. Give them a packet of cress seeds and, although they can be grown in a shallow tray, make it even more fun by saving the shells from their breakfast boiled eggs. With their tops cut off, draw a face on the eggshell and fill with peat free compost or even moist kitchen roll or cotton wool and sprinkle with seeds. In just a few days their “egg man” will be growing hair that they can not only cut, they can eat it too!

A beginners guide to…

Composting

No garden can have too much compost and rich, fertile soil is the key to great vegetables and plants. In these days of fortnightly bin collections (and the threat of slop buckets for our kitchens) why leave kitchen waste to fester in your wheelie bin when it can be put to good use?

Find a corner somewhere in the garden to start a compost heap or, if space is limited, many councils offer bins for the purpose at reasonable prices. If building your own bin, it’s best to put it on a soil base which will attract worms to start work on the heap. You could use old planks of wood or chicken wire supported by posts in each corner. This works well as it is important that air can get in to help the process.

You need a good mixture of material to make good compost.

If you just put in grass cuttings you’ll end up with a foul, soggy mess so they should be mixed with shredded newspaper, pruning clippings (not the really woody stems) and even cardboard. Annual weeds can go in as long as they haven’t gone to seed but avoid perennial weeds like dandelions as even the smallest piece of root will produce another plant. Almost all vegetable waste from the kitchen can be used, but avoid meat, fish and cooked food as these may attract rats etc. Use crushed eggshells, used teabags, used kitchen towels and fruit and vegetable peelings. Keep the mixture damp.

The aim is to end up with something that is dark, crumbly and sweet smelling and alive with worms. If you wanted to hurry up the process, you can buy accelerants from hardware shops and garden centres but a cheaper and just as efficient method involves collecting urine, diluting it with water and wetting the heap with it. Well, what do you imagine our ancestors used?!

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autoauto Biographies

BIOGRAPHIE KIA Rio

1.4 D Eco Dynamics 2

Kia economical, Rio 1.4D and EcoDynamics Sleek, loaded up with found in cars a class By equipment Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring W or two above, the Rio is a revolution www.carwriteups.co.uk @carwriteu

W

motoring

auto

awful lot for your money and AY BACK in 1992 I had body lean wasn’t overly pronounced wearing and the seats were c WAY BACK in 1992 I had get a anfriend who took people are more likely to comment a friend who took driving and room behind the wheel and in few hard plastic driving lessons lessons later than thea nice rest on what motorof you our have rather the passenger later than the rest of footwell areas was good.around than sniggering aboutat milkthe floats. our social circle. How we laughed.

Rear legroom switches let wasn’t the astounding, interior down. social circle.

How we laughed.

Not Take the latestat incarnation Not at the fact he waslearning learning but certainly adequate enough for a Kia Rio 1.4Dto EcoDynamics 2of the Rio. surprisingly spacious – certainly fact that hethatwas drive 21 (most I was lucky enough to Writer be one of a to drive at 21 (mostBy of us had Barnes-Clay, passed car of this size. The cabin materials Tim Motoring pushchairand and some shoppi ofourustesthad passed atEuropean 17), journalists but at tothe test drive small at 17), but at the car our his testfew felt hard-wearing the seats were www.carwriteups.co.uk @carwriteups car his turned instructor turned up in: offering a Kia the latest fromPride.

Kia in Portugal comfortable. Only a few hard plastic instructor up in: a Kia Pride.

BIOGRAPHIES

It was the first time any of us had

last summer.

areas around the electric window

resembled a milk float and I seem to

will want to buy for its looks, as well

The new Rio’s built in sat-nav is

The a newlet Rio’s built in sat-nav wearing Sleek, and the seats were 92 I had economical, andcomfortable. loaded up Onlyswitches heardaoffriend Kia andwho to be took honest the the interior down. The few hardwith plastic areas around electric ater than the rest of car our into centre of the car’s das It way was first time any of us had heard of Kia and equipment found inthe cars a class window thethe South Korean company bootthe was also surprisingly spacious switches or lettwo theabove, interiorthedown. boot was also w wehad laughed.

Not at the help.

Rio is aThe revolution, described their car didn’t – certainly big honest, enough to fitits a small use.

To be direction to be honest the way the South Korean car company surprisingly spacious – certainly big enough to fit a earning to drive at 21 (most not an evolution from its predecessor than It certainly wasn’t anything to be pushchair and some shopping bags had described car didn’t help.

It certainly wasn’t small pushchair and some shopping bags in with ease. anything, but that could d our test at 17), buttheir at the proud of. For a start, we all thought it and I reckon it’ll be a car that people in with ease. turned up in:toa be Kia proud Pride. of. For a start, we all thought road layouts around Lisbon. Oth anything

The new Rio’s built in sat-nav is seamlessly fitted it seamlessly difficult fitted to find much wrong w it recall resembled milk float to recallcredentials. it also it also hadawhite-wall tyres and – a Iasseem its environmental into the centre of the into the centre of the car’s dashboard and easy to any of us had heard of Kia and The Kia Rio’s CO2 emissions start at definite fashion faux pas. car’s dashboard and easy to use.

To had white-wall tyres – a definite fashion faux pas. use. To be honest, its directions got me more lost y the South Korean car company just 85 g/km; thatcould puts itbe ahead But fast-forward nearly 20 yearsthan and anything, but that dueoftoallthe be newhonest, its directions got me more car didn’t help. It certainly wasn’t is the otheraround B-segment vehicles turned around. road layouts lost five-door than anything,Rio but that couldfirst be vari Lisbon.

Othercurrently than that IThe found d of. Kia For has a start, weitself all thought It isfast-forward no longer uglynearly ontosale Europe.

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You now – a brand. definiteIt is fashion faux

line-up during 2012. T itself around. It is no longer an ugly budgetextended car brand.

It – Kia’s a wheelbase by 70tomm difficult to find much wrong with the The five-door Rio is the first variant go on sale in manufacturer’s market research from that.

You now get an awful for your money greatly enhancing passenger space Korean car.

Europe with thelot all-new three-door model joining rly is 20far years and Kia FACTS has turned FAST and cargo capacity.

With anEast overall The is the first variant Kia’s during The Asian car five-door demand forRio B-segment cars like onger an people ugly budget car brand. and are moreItlikely to line-up comment on2012. what a nice speed: 107 mph manufacturer’s market global ow getMax an awful lot for your money height of 1,455research mm, the predicts new Rio that has grow to gosignificantly on sale in Europeover with the the allnext two motor you have rather than sniggering about milk for B-segment cars like thein Rio to three-door model joining Kia’s mph:on what 14.2 likely 0-62 to comment a nicesecs demand one of the lowest rooflines Kia’sis goingnew increasingly shift to economical, m Take the latest incarnation of the Rio. I was lucky grow significantly over the next two years as consumers herfloats. than sniggering about milk European product range, emphasisline-up during 2012. The East Asian Combined mpg: 68.9 increasingly tojournalists economical, more fuel-efficient cars incarnation of to the be Rio. one I was lucky – downsizing to market offset research the continuo enough of a few European to test ingshift its purposeful stance. car manufacturer’s Engine: 1396 cc 4 cylinder, – downsizing to offset the continuous rise in fuel prices. a few European journalists to test The 1.4 diesel Rio I test drove predicts that global demand for Bdrive latest offering in line diesel g from Kia the in Portugal last summer. from Kia in Portugal last summer.

performed well. It was hushed for segment cars like the Rio is going to Max. power (bhp): With Kia an upping its game to produce With upping oil-burner and, although far good from looking growKia significantly overits the game next two to pr at 4000 rpm cars like the latest Rio, I can see every reason why and loaded up89with equipment quick off the mark, it had enough pullcars yearslike as consumers increasingly the latest Rio, Ishift can se Sleek, economical, and loaded up with equipment the motor company is confident that it’s going to ass or Max. two above, Rio is a torquethe (lb/ft): up and down and around the bends the to economical, more fuel-efficient motor company is confiden go from strength to strength.

I certainly won’t be found in cars a class or two above, the Rio is a volution from its predecessor and 162 at 1750 - 2750 rpm Lisbon’s roads getting to satisfy.into a Kia again. cars – downsizing to offset the conlaughing ofabout anyone r that people will want toan buyevolution for gotinuous fromrisestrength revolution, from predecessor CO2: 109not g/km The its six-speed gearbox wasand slick, in fuel prices.to strength.

And there’ll be no more mention of milk floats. as its environmental credentials. laughing about anyone getting With Kia upping its game to produce I reckon be a car that people will want to buy for Price: it’ll £14,195 (approx)

its looks, well that as its environmental credentials. missions start at justas 85 g/km; PROS & CONS other B-segment vehicles currently Looks √ is longer, wider The new model uresThe a wheelbase 70 Comfort √extended Kia Rio’s CO2byemissions start at just 85 g/km; that cing passenger space and cargo Economical √ puts it ahead of all other B-segment vehicles currently erall height of 1,455 mm, the new Slow theKia’s markEuropean X onrooflines saleoff in Europe.

The new model is longer, wider owest in phasising its purposeful stance. and lower, and features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm – greatly enhancing passenger space and cargo

test drove performed well. It was

goodthere’ll looking carsbe like no the latest And more men Rio, I can see every reason why the motor company is confident that it’s going to go from strength to strength.

I certainly won’t be laughing about anyone getting into a Kia again. And there’ll be no more mention of milk floats

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31

TECHNOLOGY

HOME CINEMA

M

ore and more people are staying at home and using the technology available to them to watch films and sports events , not to mention spending time using games consoles.

Whether it is in a converted loft or garage, or in your existing living room, a personal home cinema is the ultimate way to do this in style.

When deciding on your home cinema configuration the choices are endless but are usually governed by the physical space and budget for the project. The main factor to consider is whether this is going to be a dedicated media room or a discreet addition to a current family room.

Next, you will need to make a decision on the type of display that you view your media on. Leading manufacturers are now producing plasma displays up to a colossal 152 inches to view 3D movies on, but with prices over a staggering £½million, most people will opt for projection to get the big screen experience as prices are more realistic.

Vision is only part of the experience though; the soundtrack is almost as important. AV receivers are now being produced to offer 9.2 channels of sound giving you 9 speakers filling the room with sound from all angles and 2 subwoofers to make the room move when the action gets going.

If that’s not enough for you, and your budget allows, you could add sofa shakers to really make the earth move and give you that 4D experience.

For the icing on the cake why not add some lighting control so that the lights dim as you press play to start your favourite movie.

The final decision. Popcorn. Salted or sweet?!

32

Modern

A simple set up... This is actually in somebody’s house! We can dream.

Number of speakers

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

This depends on aesthetics and, of course, those you live with. If you’re buying with an eye on the future, note that 6.1 and 7.1 movies will gradually become more common.

Amp abilities

Cinema-in-a-box comes with an amp, thus reducing under-telly clutter. Don’t fixate on wattage ratings – audio quality is far more important than volume.

DVD or Blu-ray?

Almost every Blu-ray spinner will also play DVDs, so investing in a Blu-ray set-up may be worth it in the long-term.

3D

Many TVs support 3D, so consider a 3D- ready home cinema – whether it can play 3D discs itself, or just pass the content to your TV.

Compromise

If domestic bliss relies upon a lack of surround speakers, consider ‘cheat’ surround (such as a sound bar) – but get a friendly dealer to let you try before you buy

01582 521430

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39 33

The Nutrition Coach

Brain Foods For

Studying

The merry month of May?...

Perhaps not for those studying for exams, more a time for planning and preparation. A revision timetable is obviously essential in order to avoid that last-minute cramming and often there is little time on the agenda for planning meals, but a healthy diet is also essential in order to keep the brain alert and focussed and able to absorb all of that information effectively.

Brain Foods • PROTEINS: meat, liver, fish, nuts, beans, eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese • CARBOHYDRATES: wholegrain cereals and breads, soya products, brown ric and pasta • VEGETABLES: broccoli, cabbage, kale, cauliflower, carrots, potatoes, avocado • FRUIT: blackcurrants, blueberries, strawberries, sundried apricots, bananas, apples, pears • OMEGA-3 FATS:linseeds soaked ove night and sprinkled on cereals. Oily fish, sardines, mackerel, salmon, fresh tuna and trout • HERBS: sage & rosemary used in cooking as well as aromatherapy You should drink up to 2 litres of water, diluted fruit juice or herb teas a day.

34

=

A+

Eating healthy meals little and often and before 7p.m. rather than large meals late at night will keep you mentally alert and ensure restful sleep. For brain cells to communicate effectively they require neurotransmitters, which are made from amino acids found in protein foods.

Vitamins and minerals are needed to convert the amino acids into the neurotransmitters, so protein-rich foods, wholegrain cereals and lots of fruit and vegetables will be needed each day.

Foods high in sugar will add to stress levels, so it is better to snack on nuts, seeds and fruit rather than sweets.

Cut down on caffeine drinks, like cola and coffee.

Although well known for keeping us awake for long periods, caffeine can make us too ‘hyper’ and unable to focus. With thoughts racing so much, it’ll be hard to think of the words we’re searchin for!

Gentle exercise, such as walking, jogging or cycling, in between study periods will provide you with the extra oxygen you need, as well as improving the circulation to the brain and will even jog your memory!

When the exam days arrive, positive thinking will be essential, as stress can cause confusion and poor memory. Focussing on breathing, with slow deep breaths in and out will help.

The Australian Bush Flower Remedy, Cognis, described as excellent for study, gives clarity, and helps integrate ideas and information and the homeopathic remedy Gelsemium 30c, taken in the morning, will calm anxieties.

With all this preparation, the month of May should be easier for you, with merry celebrations to follow, knowing you’ve done your best after all!

By Sue Blain Naturopath, specialising in Homeopathy, Nutrition & Reiki.

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35

H l a r tu a h n t l a e H Health natural

C

Children’s Health By Sue Blain

hildren’s health has been in the news recently, following reports about childhood obesity.

Apparently almost a quarter of children are overweight or obese by the time they start primary school and by the age of 12 some are showing the early signs of normally adult-onset diseases such as high blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose and also type2 diabetes.

The Government has recently put in place voluntary guidelines to reduce sugar levels in foods but various food, farming and health groups, like the charity Sustain, are calling for more to be done to reduce sugar levels in soft drinks and breakfast cereals, which are “contributing to dental disease, obesity and a host of other life-threatening illnesses which cost the NHS billions each year”, Charlie Powell, Sustain’s campaign manager.

Research has shown that exercise helps to keep children fit but the amount they do has little or no affect on their weight, so it appears diet alone is to blame.

Eating three healthy meals a day, containing a generous portion of protein (essential for growth), as well as vegetables, will fill children up and reduce the need for snacking. A protein breakfast takes longer to digest than a high sugar breakfast cereal (some more than 30% sugar), which can leave children craving for more sugary foods after an hour or so and affect their concentration in class. Scrambled eggs, grilled bacon, sardines or beans on toast take just a few minutes to prepare.

Diluted fruit juice and a bottle of water for school can replace unhealthy sugar-laden drinks. It is

Naturopathic Practitioner

36

important to check “No Added Sugar” drinks for artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, acesuflame etc, and glucose-fructose syrup with their suspected harmful side effects. Many of these drinks are labelled “No artificial flavours or colours” but still contain artificial sweeteners.

Chopped fruits can be offered instead of sweets and also added to porridge and sour fruit. St Dalfour jam contains concentrated grape juice rather than sugar. Local or manuka honey is preferable to some supermarket brands.

Two other natural sweeteners are Xylitol (birch sugar, brand name Total Sweet), recommended by Diabetes UK, and Stevia, a naturally sweet plant used in South America and Japan in their Cola drinks. Both are available in some supermarkets and health shops. Xylitol looks and tastes like regular sugar, has 60% fewer calories and most consider it best for baking. Stevia has no calories, a sweet slight taste and useful sprinkled on porridge and sour fruit.

We get all the natural sugars our bodies need from vegetables and fruit. Added sugar is not really needed at all. How much healthier many children will be once this new campaign begins to take effect.

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& HAIR BEAUTY Perfume

---------Helen Thomas FM Fragrance Consultant Tel 07506712090 www.helenandpaul.org

Now the spring is well and truly on the way with lighter mornings and warmer days you may feel inclined to get your lighter clothes out, throw off your boots in favour of shoes and change your beauty regime for lighter products. But have you thought about your fragrance?

Fragrances are very seasonal and spring and summer call for much lighter, fresher scents. The notes in a fragrance are intensified with heat so you may find the fragrance you have worn all winter may be too powerful for the months to come.

So why not have some fun and find a new fragrance for yourself this spring that is crisp, refreshing and light.

All fragrances fall within 6 fragrance families with floral being the largest so look for scents that contain the more delicate florals like sweet pea, freesia, lotus and rose.

Fragrance should evoke good memories or feelings so look for natural scents that remind you of cut grass, summer meadows, or aquatic smells that remind you of summer months

by the sea.

Wood or citrus scents are also ideal for the coming months as they are fresh and invigorating. Wearing citrus or an "ocean breeze" type of scent will actually make you feel cooler. However be aware that fragrances that contain citrus notes (mandarin, lemon, lime, grapefruit) do not last as long on the skin as others so it’s wise to choose a fragrance that combines citrus with floral notes.

If you prefer more oriental fragrances then opt for ones that have a woody base for the summer; sandalwood or cedar wood are sensual but not as strong as musk.

Also remember as your body temperature rises the alcohol in your fragrance evaporates more quickly and therefore fades rapidly, so you may need to reapply your fragrance, or try layering i.e. using soap, body lotion and deodorant in the same fragrance so you intensify the smell and don’t have different scents competing with each other.

Fragrance Composition A fragrance is made up of different ‘notes’ which appear gradually at different rates, creating a harmonious scent.

The top note is the first impression you get and will last for 10 to 20 minutes before evaporating.

Try it on your skin... apply to wrists but do not rub together as you will bruise the fragrance

The mid note appears just before the top one fades and is usually softer; rose, jasmine and lily are typical mid notes, and these form the main character of the fragrance. These usually last 3 to 6 hours.

Give it time….a fragrance is made up of top, middle and base notes which appear at different times, so don’t make a decision immediately

Base notes emerge last around 30 minutes after application and can last up to 24 hours on the skin 38

Tips For Choosing A Fragrance

Don’t confuse your nose… it can only distinguish between 3 scents at a time so neutralise the scents by sniffing coffee granules or tea leaves

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39

Jog on T

his year’s London Marathon will be held on April 21st.

This iconic event first took place over 30 years ago, in 1981.

It was the brainchild of John Disley and Chris Brasher who after taking part in the New York Marathon, wondered if London could stage such a festival.

7,747 runners took part in the first London Marathon, whilst in 2012 there were over 37,000 participants.

The Marathon is now a calendar highlight for competitors, spectators and charities alike. Olympic champion Stephen Kiprotich will take part this year and is expected to complete the 26.2 mile course in just over 2 hours For most of us a marathon would prove too gruelling, but there are half marathons, 10k and 5k runs or sub 5k events which anyone can enter.

There are running events nearly every weekend somewhere in Britain.

Running has many benefits, firstly it’s

free. Once you have your basic kit, it costs nothing to simply ‘go out for a run.’ As you are not tied to a specific class or opening times, you can go running whenever you please.

Studies extol the health benefits.

Runners tend to be stronger and live longer. Regular exercise, along with a healthy balanced diet, can also reduce your risk of cancer.

So how does a fledgling runner get started? Most beginners’ guides suggest doing a combination of run/ walk/run on your first outings and building up your distance gradually.

You should always stretch, warm up and cool down and ensure you are hydrated. You should not run too fast.

You should always be able to maintain a conversation and not breathe too heavily.

Training programmes suggest that subject to satisfactory health, beginners could train to complete a 5k run within six weeks, training three

times a week. Someone preparing for a marathon would probably have a training plan of at least 16 weeks.

It’s important to have the correct equipment and in particular the right shoes. Specialists will use biomechanics, your weight, the surfaces you wish to run on and the shape of your feet as influencing factors when determining which shoes to recommend for you.

Serious runners will alternate between two pairs of shoes during training, and shoes should be replaced after around 500 miles.

Other items to consider include running socks, tights leggings or shorts, a stop watch, technical t shirt, a heart monitor, training log, drinks carrier, energy drinks and a lightweight jacket.

Ladies will also require a high impact sports bra.

Many find they are more committed to running if they have a training partner, and some join local running clubs for increased support and guidance.

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41

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



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

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

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

Sudoku 数独 1 6

7

9 2 6

8 4 3

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5 6 7

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

Crossword

PLANE

Forget Me Knot Pet Bereavement LEAFLET AVAILABL

SPOT THE ADVERT What advert Is This? >>>> Across

42

Suppo

Bef Durin A

Down The relationship shared with each pet

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Out&About

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

“The more you put in, the more you get out” is certainly true for the members of Dunstable and District Orbit Club. Since its inception over 20 years ago, the club has raised thousands of pounds for local and national charitiesin from such as quizzes, racehostellers. nights, stallsWe BEER FESTIVAL May 2nd, 9.15-11.30am, the eventswalkers, hikers and WATLING STREET CLUB at Carnivals etc.

Friday 10th May - Sunday 12th May Baptist Church, in aid of the Somerrun a surprisingly diverse range of However, there is more to Orbit than the comradeship We are an independent social club for ex-Rotarians and Grove House Gardens – NEW ies Suite at the Luton&Dunstable activities, including half and full day and teamwork involved in organising fundraising events. similarly VENUEminded people and have been in existence Hospital for walks, hostelling trips, meals and The emphasis is very much onactivities. having fun in all their nearly 3 years.

We are named ‘The Watling Street Club’ After the huge success to our first beer May 16th, 9.15-11.30am, in the evening activities including a wide range of social pursuits such as as our members form a link along the Watling Street. we are bringing it backatand Wilkinson aid of the SomerNewcinema/theatres, members are always 10-pin bowling, guidedwelcome. walks, Wefestival, meet every Thursday evening the ‘Old Hunter’sHall, in archery, it’s going to be even andspeaker. bet- ies Suite at the Luton&Dunstable members aresuit invited progressive meals etc.Prospective The club plan events to all to Lodge’ Whipsnade for abigger meal and ter!members 38 Ales and Ciders in aFor massive Hospital in are touch budgets and many ofget them freevia orthe at awebsite, low cost.give New are welcome. more information outdoor with live music us aannually. ring or just turn up to an event Membership is only £10 contact John marquee Stevens 01582 668033 are on the first and third Tuesdays of each ST GEORGES DAYMeetings CELEBRATIONS or walk.

D.A.W.G. SOCIAL CLUB month at the Dunstable Rugby Club, Bedford Road , Saturday 20th April 10 am to 3pm.

1ST TOTTERNHOE BROWNIES Enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk Houghton You’ll be guaranteed a warm We are aBrownie small andPack friendly Dunstable based social Priory Gardens & The Square Regis 8pm.www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk Small welcome. group meeting a month with a wide variety of Georges day Free St. fun with craft ‘only down once the hill to Totternhoe’ 01582 865966 Sue or Julian Mark on 01582 539379, speakers during the winter andalong outdoor events and town trail Contact activities, and on entertainIf you are interested come Julie 01582 535761 www.orbitclub.org.uk/dunstable visits during the summer.

Each year we also arrange two ment! Come and have fun celebrating NCT NEARLY NEW SALE for an evening andand findprofessional out how entertainment. evenings with a meal Saturday 18th May, 11.45 - 1pm much DUNSTABLE BRIDGE CLUB We would welcome new members (couplesthis andtraditional singles). Day! Admission 11.30 for NCT members funfurther you can have. and a free visit why not contact For information meet every Monday bank holidays) (with(except membership card). in Chews A HAUNTINGWe EXPERIENCE Spaces available Brian on 01525 754189.

House in High StreetAdmission South, Dunstable, from (in 1pm £1 per adult aidtoof NCT Are there Ghosts in 5pm.

PrioryWe House?

Tuesday Evening ‘s term time would welcome new members of all standards charity) Is Priory House really GARDEN CLUB 6.00pmDUNSTABLE – 7.30pm andhaunted? you do not needBuggies a partner. and pushchairs will not be Is Monday there really a ladyIfon the stairs?

Ages 7 –Garden 10 anyone is interestedallowed please call: 01582 Dunstable Club meet on the second in the sales664485 room.

Can a baby Pleaseofcontact Zoe Hurry evening each month at 7.30pm at the Salvation Armyreally be heard crying in Bullpond Lane Dunstable, LU6 3BJ theThe night?

Community Hall, Bull Pond Lane, Dunstable.

Club 01582 666942 BLOWS DOWNS CONSERVATION Free parking on Bullpond GROUP Lane. has been in existence for many years and maintaining These are just two examples of the guided Items foratsale include toys, books, on Join our friendly walk blows downs dunstable a steadyEATON membership.

The subscription is only £10 per haunting experiences that have beenthe walk BRAY TAVERNERS sunday July 3rd. will beand a short 2 miles butclothes, unduMaternity baby/childrens year which entitles members to attend eight winter reported in the past lating, at Priory BRIDGE CLUB at aHouse. leisurly pace. on the way we talkplus about the pushchairs, highchairs other meetings with speakers and a selection of summer The Anglia Paranormal The club every Friday even-interesting floraInvestigation and fauna of thisbaby wildlife trust owned nature reserve equipment. outings frommeets May onwards to various and which will include thefor area of the chalk pitscontact where the wild Society (APIS) are holding a number ing from 7.30-10.30pm more information Nicola: well-known garden venues. at the orchids of evening to should find outbe in abundance.

Methodist Church, Eaton High nnsdunstable@gmail.com Visitors are very welcome at Bray £2 each so why not comeinvestigations Half moon lane dunstable at 3pm. is love really going Meet on. at the far end of07904315117 St. toand play duplicate or ,0844 2436112 along meet some ofbridge. the members whowhat would Tel. of, foramongst further details, tony bliss 01582 704664.

Damien O’Dell author www.nct.org.uk/nns to£1 seefor fresh faces. £2 for visitors. members, others, ‘Ghostly Bedfordshire-ReTel: 01525 221779 CHILTERN CEILIDHSInvestigated’ is leading the evening BREAKOUT SOCIAL CLUB Chiltern Ceilidhs - aCOMMUNITY regular ceilidh/barn dance themembers of APIS. Would We are a club for the over forty fives, with on other TODDINGTON CAFE 2nd Friday of the month. All ages welcome, no experinot a singlesChurch club but a social club Stfancy Fremund’s youband like to join them? Do you Lastrequired year you helped us raise ence and live music fromand our house for people who enjoy going out but taking part in a real ghost hunt? donate nearly £800 to local causes/ every month! The dances start at 8pm (doors open at Westfield are Road, on their Dunstable own, also where they for the evening are priced services, including Toddington 7.30pm) and tickets are £7 (£5 conc) with Tickets under 10s can meet like minded people, make at £35 and the evening runs from schools, Keech Hospice Care,Club, and Albion getting in free.

Venue: The Polish street, new friends and enjoy a varied social Dunstable, LU6 3AZ the Neo-natal Unit at the L&D. This 8:00pm to 1:00am in the morning. life in a safe and friendly environContact: 01582 475655, The price includes a cup of Tea/Cofyear we have already raised money ment. We meet once a week, we email: chilternceilidhs@googlmail.com or visit our fee and light refreshments. for the Samaritans and Stray Cat now have a room in the Conservative website: www.chilternceilidhs.info The next investigations will take place Club, High Street North . Dunstable Rescue. A huge thanks to all those on Saturday 27 April. who have supported us, including THE BOGTROTTERS Annual fee -£26 Are and you Hosbrave enough to find out theBogtrotters Baptist Church and and St. George’s Contact: Mrs Nicola Talbot For more information please contact The (Dunstable District Walking what REALLY Church, who allow us to90use Sandy on 07813 262556 telling Group) arekindly a group of about walkers, hikers and goes bump in the 01582604847 night??? their facilities, to the Nisa for range hostellers.

We runalso a surprisingly diverse of activities, admin@dunstableswimmingpools.co.uk supplying tea and coffee. including half and full day walks, hostelling trips, meals and FRIENDS OF STUDHAM COMMON LEIGHTON |BUZZARD BOWLS If youactivities. would like to find out more evening We are a friendly,voluntary group CLUB OPEN DAY about the Community Cafe, anyProspective of New members are always welcome. members whose aim is to conserve,maintain areitsinvited to get in touch viatasty the website, us a ring 20th or April, 10am - 5pm causes, or just enjoy home- giveSaturday and promote Studham Common as just turn up to an event or walk.come Sunday 21st April, 10am - 2pm made treats with a cuppa, a haven for wildlife and a place for enquiries@dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk Refreshments available. All other along and join us. everyone to enjoy.For this purpose www.dunstablebogtrotters.co.uk Our coffee mornings will be held on equipment provided. we meet as a work party on the 01582 865966 Sue or Julian Grovebury Rd. Leighton Buzzard. the following dates: third Saturday of each month (ex01525 371638 April 4th, 9.15-11.30am, in the cept Dec.) The work is not onerous THE HEALING TRUST Baptist Church, in aid of Disability and we enjoy the exercise and the Ardley Hill School, Lowther Road, Dunstable, each THE BOGTROTTERS Resource Centre good company –and a picnic lunch Thursday evening, 7.30 9pm.

No charge, donations The Bogtrotters (Dunstable and April 18th, 9.15-11.30am, in the is provided! Details from Pam on accepted.

NFSH contact Pam Hill on Wilkinson Hall, in aid of Disability District Walking and Hostelling 01582 872608 01582 606182.

Come for interest or healing.

Group) are a group of about 90 Resource Centre

HALL FOR HIRE Regular slots available HALL HIRE or for FOR family parties

44

WILDLIFE TRUST There is a whole world to discover on your doorstep with your local Wildlife Trust in 2013 Here are some of your up and coming events for APRIL and MAY Blows Downs Nature Reserve Open Event 4th April (Easter Holidays) 10am-3pm The Paddocks, Blows Downs Nature Reserve Come and celebrate with us at the re-opening of the paddocks at Blows Downs…

Everyone Welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Youth Wildlife Rangers 31st May (Half Term) 1pm-3pm If you are aged between 13 and 19 and you would like to help your local wildlife then come along and join in with various activities, including, butterfly surveys…

Outdoor Activities / Booking Essential.

All events free / Donations gratefully accepted No Wheelchair Access / Uneven steep slopes in areas Tel; Ruth Sneath 01525 874317 ruth.sneath@wildlifebcn.org

BREATHEASY Do you suffer from a lung condition? Then why not come and join our local Support group - breatheasy - Part of the British lung foundation. We meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month at peter newton pavilion (Behind tesco) 2 4pm carers also welcome As well as supporting each other we have a variety of speakers and also arrange day trips out.

New members most welcome More info phone michael on 01582 602348

DUNSTABLE TOWN COUNCIL YOUTH ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 2013

Do you know a young person or group who deserve some extra recognition?

Are they putting in additional hours or are they dedicated to be the best in their chosen sport or activity? Are they giving up their own time and passing on their skills to others?

Are they overcoming obstacles, difficulties or just going the ‘extra mile’ in achieving educational atDUNSTABLE GARDEN CLUB tainment?

At our October meeting a repreAre they a young carer, looking afsentative of Blom’s Bulbs, Melchter a parent, sibling or other relative bourne, Bedfordshire gave a very in need? Or do they enable others interesting talk on the cultivation to participate fully? of tulips and growing them for the Are they giving of themselves to Chelsea Flower Show - this year they gained their 62nd Gold medal! help in their community through organising events/activities, volOn November 12th the Chairman unteering to make a difference, do of the Midland Branch of the National Vegetable Society will tell us they fund raise to help a chosen cause how to have homegrown vegetaIf so we want to hear about them. bles on our plate every day of the Dunstable Town Council is comyear. The Christmas meeting on mitted to recognising and rewardDecember 10th will be a sociable ing local young people who make evening.

We start 2013 in January DUNSTABLE NETBALL CLUB a difference and improve their own with a talk by English Heritage The Club’s objective is to foster and and others quality of life. about the recently restored gardens promote the sport of netball, proat Wrest Park, Silsoe. viding opportunities for recreation So come on don’t be shy please Meetings are held on the 2nd and competition. apply – Anyone can nominate a Dunstable Netball Club Junior ses- Monday of each winter month at young person or group, you know sion is held at All Saints Academy, the Salvation Army Hall, Bull Pond they deserve it. Nomination forms Lane, Dunstable and commence Houghton Road, Dunstable, Bedat 7.30pm. Visitors welcome at £2 can be downloaded from the fordshire LU5 5AB from 6pm till Dunstable Town Council website, and new members subscription is 7.15 on Thursday evenings. Chilor picked up from Grove House, £10 a year. dren are required to wear suitable Grove Corner and The Mayfield Mary Chapman Tel:training shoes, bring a drink and Centre. The closing date for this 01582 603710 £3.00 subscription fees per week. years awards is Friday 5th April.

The adult session is held at All What happens next?

TEA TIME TALES Saints Academy, as above from Once you have nominated, all Priory House Heritage Centre 7.30 - 9.00 on Thursday evenings. applications will be considered by Tel: 01582 890270 It is open to all ages and abilities a panel. Each nominated young Local History Talks and is a great way to get fit, have person or group will receive a letter with Tea/Coffee fun and make new friends. £3.00 of acknowledgement and congratuThursday 2.30pm, - 4.00pm subscription fee per week lations and the most outstanding £4.50 per person Junior membership of the Club is in each category will receive an April 11th open to : National Gardens Scheme, in Bed- award at the Town meeting to be Boys in School years 5 & 6 held at Creasey Park Community fordshire Females in School Year 5 to adult Football Club on 15th April 2013 April 25th Children aged 8 (school year 4) will starting at 7.30pm.

History of Bletchley Park be accepted if a Club Coach deems May 9th them to have exceptional developThe War of The Roses, and all that Please see eligible criteria on ment qualities and on the agreenomination form. Information availMay 23rd ment of the committee.

A butchers at the Village Shop - So- able on www.dunstable.gov.uk.

For further information, find us on cial changes in a village community Or contact Sandy Coyle on 01582 Facebook(Dunstable Net-ball Club) 513000 or email: Sandy.coyle@dunstable.gov.uk

www.thevinemagazine.co.uk

45

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